Chapter Books
When students asked Rick Riordan to write a book about Hindu/Indian culture, he absolutely did the right thing and found an #ownvoices author to do it instead. Not only that Chokshi flipped the genders on the Pandava "brothers" and made a romping adventure story that any kid could enjoy.
Set in the '90s but still very relevant today, Front Desk tackles racism, immigration, prejudice and the cycle of poverty in what is ultimately a very upbeat story.
A thoughtful book about a tough and timely topic. Well-balanced and not about placing blame, but focuses on how to fix the terrible problem of police violence against children (and adults) of color.
Okay, I don't know about the rest of you, but this is my pick for Newbery this year. It will take a lot to beat this one for me. It's an awesome mystery, a great friendship and identity story, and a decisive critique of racism in America, all written at an appropriate level for its intended audience. Can't tell you much because I don't want to ruin the mystery, but trust me you NEED to read this one.
This book was everything I hoped that it would be. Nice, solid middle grade horror book with real heart and a strong message about friendship, family and grief.
Non-Fiction
Unbelievably luscious and intricate illustrations accompany detailed and fascinating information about nature.
Beautifully illustrated book full of real African proverbs.
Another "Scientists in the Field" book full of information about an animal we thought we knew and the amazing scientists who work every day to really document their ways.
Fascinating true story of how Monopoly was invented by and stolen from a brilliant woman.
Really interesting book about one of the first and most famous instances of "fake news" in American history. I loved all the quotes from listener letters; they read like modern-day tweets.
Biography
I really enjoyed this book. I liked the pacing of how the author told Barnes's story. I learned so much. I had seen Barnes's work before but did not know the story of the artist; it is incredibly inspirational! And I think Collier made the absolute right choice not to try to make the art in the book look like the artist's. Barnes's style needs no explanation or adaptation. I had to immediately get online and look up the works mentioned but not pictured in the book. To me, this means the book does its job amazingly well. Please check this one out!
Interesting biography of a little-known musician. Lovely graphite illustrations ride the line between realistic and dreamy.
Covering the last few months of King's life, the Pinkneys have constructed a lyrical and beautifully illustrated testament to King's importance in American life and a call to continue the mission in today's chaotic world.
Neat book about the first ship and men to go truly deep into the ocean. Lots of good information and lovely illustrations.
Awesome book about a little known part of Robinson's life. Great information, gorgeous illustrations, and age appropriate details makes this a perfect book for today's climate.
Graphic Novels
Vera doesn't fit in with her classmates who are well-off and very white/American. Her mom is a Russian immigrant raising 3 kids on her own. So when she hears about Russian camp, she finally thinks she has found a place where she will fit in. But, as someone who both went to camp and worked at one, I know that camp is far more complex than that and Vera discovers that people are people no matter where you are. Ultimately, she figures out some things about herself and about others and learns how to be a good friend in order to make some. Good read-alike for Raina Telegemeier and Shannon Hale.
A fun book about a group of kids who spend the summer building and acting out their fantasy world in cardboard. Inclusive, non-stereotypical, while still incredibly real. Everyone should check this one out.
Funny beginning chapter book and comic book as well. Chick is pretty ridiculous and Fox is extremely patient.
Tale of two sloth friends: one who wants to explore and the other who prefers to stay home. In the end they both learn to see the other's perspective. The teens in my Mock Newbery adored it.
Love it! Especially the end fashion show. Such a sweet story about accepting your identity and finding your calling.
Great story with a wide variety of people and a three-headed kitty. What more could you want?
That's my MG list! Next time, teens.
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