Posts by Janie Cheaney
*Answering the Cry for Freedom by Gretchen Woelfle
These brief biographies of 13 African Americans during the Revolutionary War demonstrate the power of self-determination as well as the power of faith. *Answering the Cry for Freedom: Stories of African Americans and the American Revolution by Gretchen Woelfle, illustrated by R. Gregory Christie. Calkins Creek, 2016, 201 pages, plus timelines, bibliography, notes and index…
Read MoreYou Can Fly by Carole Boston Weatherford
You’re black. It’s 1941. Uncle Sam’s poster I WANT YOU doesn’t include you and your dream of becoming a pilot. But sometimes dreams do come true… You Can Fly: The Tuskegee Airmen by Carole Boston Weatherford. Atheneum Books for Young Readers, 2016, 96 pages Reading Level: middle grades, ages 9-12 Recommended for: all ages “No…
Read More*Under Our Skin by Benjamin Watson
For Christians of all colors who are concerned about racial tension, Benjamin Watson shows the way to reconciliation. *Under Our Skin by Benjamin Watson. Tyndale, 2015, 204 pages Reading Level: Teen, age 15-up Recommended for: ages 16-up On August 9, 2014, a black 19-year-old was shot and killed by a white police officer in a…
Read MoreWhy Black History Month?
If a race has no history, it has no worthwhile tradition, it becomes a negligible factor in the thought of the world, and it stands in danger of being exterminated. The American Indian left no continuous record. He did not appreciate the value of tradition; and where is he today? The Hebrew keenly appreciated the value of…
Read MoreTime Traveling with a Hamster by Ross Welford
This time-traveling novel requires a large suspension of belief, but rewards the reader with several moments of nail-biting suspense. Time Traveling with a Hamster by Ross Welford. Schwartz & Wade, 2016, 426 pages Reading Level: Middle Grades, ages 10-12 Recommended for: ages 12-15 (with cautions) “My dad died twice: once when he was 39, and…
Read MoreEvery Single Second by Tricia Springstubb
This thoughtful novel about growth, change, and community sensitively explores a girl’s relationship to her Italian-American family and Catholic faith. Every Single Second by Tricia Springstubb. Balzer & Bray, 2016, 359 pages Reading Level: Middle grade, ages 10-12 Recommended for: ages 12-up (with cautions) “It was terrible how fast things could change. One second to…
Read MoreAnd the Winners Are . . . .
Last Friday, Janie and Betsy gave their best guesses as to which books the ALA would delight to honor in their annual Youth Media Awards. Both were up early (especially Betsy!) to hear the announcements live from Atlanta. Of course, at least half of the honored books we hadn’t read because there are only so…
Read MoreThe Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill
The Girl Who Drank the Moon is thoughtful fantasy with imaginative twists that mature readers will enjoy parsing out. The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill. Algonquin, 2016, 386 pages. Reading Level: Middle Grade, ages 10-12 Recommended for: ages 12-15 In the Protectorate, a council of elders makes the rules and an order…
Read MoreFarewell to Richard Adams
The last week of the year was an unusually intense news cycle, with a presidential transition, annual wrap-ups, and two prominent celebrity deaths back to back. I’m talking about Carrie Fisher and Debbie Reynolds, but another well-known figure passed away in the waning days of the year—better known to my generation, that is. On Christmas…
Read More2017 Newbery Buzz: Ghost and Booked
Janie: Last Friday, we discussed two middle grade novels that were filled with sadness. Today we turn to a couple of sports-related novels by authors who have already been generously recognized by the American Library Association. In fact, Kwame Alexander won the coveted Newbery medal two years ago for his basketball-related verse novel, The Crossover. …
Read More*Tiger Boy by Mitali Perkins
Tiger Boy, set in the Sundarban Islands, is a satisfying tale of courage and responsibility for younger middle-graders. a review from our archives! (originally published June 2, 2015) *Tiger Boy by Mitali Perkins, illustrated by Jamie Hogan. Charlesbridge, 2015. 144 pages, including author note and glossary Reading Level: Middle grades, ages 8-10 Recommended for: ages 8-12…
Read MoreThe Passion of Dolssa by Julie Berry
The Passion of Dolssa is a frank and honest portrait of religious devotion that is true both to religion and to history. a review from our archives! Originally published July 27, 2016. The Passion of Dolssa by Julie Berry. Viking, 2016, 446 pages Reading Level: Young Adult, 12-15 Recommended for: Ages 15-up Provincial France, 1241: About…
Read MoreFarewell to Artemis
a review from our archives (first published September 18, 2012) Artemis Fowl: the Last Guardian, by Eoin Coffer. Hyperion, 2012, 336 pages. Age/interest level: 10-up Teenage criminal mastermind Artemis Fowl first appeared in 2001, and was immediately acclaimed as “another Harry Potter.” This was exaggeration—the author rejected it firmly and rightly. Harry, despite his growing…
Read More*Hattie Big Sky by Kirby Larsen
Hattie Big Sky draws upon the experience of the author’s own grandmother to create this enthralling story of hard-won optimism and frontier grit. a review from our archives, first appearing on April 13, 2012 *Hattie Big Sky by Kirby Larson. Delacorte, 2006. 283 pages Reading Level: Young Adult, ages 12-15 Recommended for: ages 12-15 and up…
Read MoreExtreme Teens: YA Thrillers
note: this post originally appeared on December 11, 2012. Enjoy this one from the archives! “. . . Courage is not simply one of the virtues, but the form of every virtue at the testing point, which means, at the point of highest reality.” C. S. Lewis, The Screwtape Letters. Back at the turn of…
Read More“Just believe”–in Christmas!
Recently it struck me that in no other religion is faith so central as Christianity. Think about it: generally speaking, Buddhism stresses contemplation, Islam action, Confucianism conduct, Hinduism resignation, and Judaism is all about the greatness and majesty of God himself. Yahweh’s people are commanded to hear and obey him and have no other gods…
Read MoreA Shiloh Christmas by Phillis Reynolds Naylor
The long-running Shiloh series wraps up with appropriate Christmas cheer but not too much theological clarity. A Shiloh Christmas by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor. Atheneum, 2015, 246 pages. Reading Level: 10-12 Recommended for: 10-14 Back in 1991, a West Virginia boy named Marty Preston found an abused beagle and tried to hide him from the abusive…
Read MoreFuzzy by Tom Angleberger
Fuzzy may seem far-fetched, but it raises some interesting, real-world questions in an entertaining way. Fuzzy by Tom Angleberger and Paul Dellinger. Amulet, 2016, 253 pages. Reading Level: Middle grades, ages 8-10 Recommended for: ages 8-12 There’s a new kid at school, only it’s not a kid kid but a very sophisticated, top-of-the-line humanoid robot…
Read MoreProjekt 1065 by Alan Gratz
A 13-year-old saboteur in the Hitler Youth meets the challenge of his life in this page-turning World War II thriller. Projekt 1065 by Alan Gratz. Scholastic, 2016, 309 pages including author note Reading Level: Middle grades, ages 10-12 Recommended for: ages 12-15 There’s a reason Michael O’Shaunessey, 13, speaks German so well; his father, an…
Read MorePearl Harbor Child: an Interview with Dorinda Nicholson
Her father was from Kansas City; her mother was native Hawaiian, and Dorinda Makanaonalani Stagner grew up on Pearl City Peninsula, just around the bend from the home of the U.S. Pacific Fleet. Dad worked at the Honolulu Post office and Mom had a job at the Pan-American World Airways Clipper Base. In the fall…
Read MorePaper Wishes by Lois Sepahban
This quiet story takes us into the mind of a Japanese-American girl who finds herself an alien in her own country. Paper Wishes by Lois Sepahban. Farrar Strauss Giroux, 2016, 175 pages + author note Reading Level: Middle Grades, 8-10 Recommended for: ages 8-12 Life is good for ten-year-old Manami, who lives on Bainbridge Island…
Read MoreDive! World War II Stories of Sailors and Submarines by Deborah Hopkinson
This comprehensive history of submarine warfare in the Pacific will have WWII fans cheering and other readers quietly grateful for the sacrifices vividly detailed. Dive! World War II Stories of Sailors and Submarines in the Pacific by Deborah Hopkinson. Scholastic, 2016, 294 pages including appendices. Reading Level: Middle Grades, ages 10-12 Recommended for: ages 10-15…
Read MoreFires of Invention by Scott Savage
This dystopian fantasy series (with steampunk overtones) kicks off with a fabulous mechanical flying beast and two intrepid teens. Fires of Invention (Mysteries of Cove #1) by Scott Savage. Shadow Mountain, 2015, 311 pages. Reading Level: middle grades, ages 10-12 Recommended for: ages 10-15, especially boys Cove is a city built inside a mountain; all…
Read MoreGears of Revolution by Scott Savage
A dystopian/fantasy series continues with our heroes’ search for the legendary Leo Babbage Gears of Revolution (Mysteries of Cove #2) by Scott Savage. Shadow Mountain, 2016, 340 pages. Reading Level: middle grades, ages 10-12 Recommended for: ages 10-15, especially boys The previous volume concluded with Trenton and Kallista escaping their cloistered settlement on their mechanical…
Read More*Visual Theology by Tim Challies
Visual Theology presents the primary disciplines of the Christian life in a highly accessible form with attractive graphics. *Visual Theology: Seeing and Understanding the Truth about God by Tim Challies and Josh Byers. Zondervan, 2016, 153 pages. Reading Level: Teen, ages 12-15 Recommended for: ages 16-up Challies and Byers set forth four major areas of…
Read More*Sam the Man and the Chicken Plan
Likeable characters and a gently-humorous style introduces early-elementary readers to the rewards of hard work and free enterprise. *Sam the Man and the Chicken Plan by Frances O’Roark Dowell, illustrated by Amy June Banks. Atheneum, 2016, 112 pages Reading Level: Chapter books, ages 6-8 Recommended for: ages 6-10 Sam Graham wanted a job. Everyone else…
Read MoreMissy Piggle-Wiggle and the Whatever Cure by Ann Martin
Popular children’s author Ann Martin updates a series from the 1950s for a new generation of children who could use some shaping-up. Missy Piggle-Wiggle and the Whatever Cure by Ann Martin, with Annie Parnell. Illustrations by Ben Hatke. Feiwell & Friends, 2016, 241 pages Reading Level: Middle Grades, 8-10 Recommended for: ages 8-12 Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle,…
Read MoreThe Way Things Work Now by David Macaulay
This update of Macaulay’s classic reference guide to technology embraces the digital revolution with wit and (mostly) clarity. The Way Things Work Now by David Macaulay. Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2016, 399 pages. Reading Level: Middle Grades, 10-12 Recommended for: ages 8-up If you were around in the late 1980s, and had anything to do with…
Read MoreNatalie Babbitt, 1932-2016, and The Search for Delicious
Somewhere amid the news of the last two weeks (pretty intense news cycle, I understand) came word that Natalie Babbitt had died of lung cancer at the age of 84. For someone whose career spanned about 45 years, her output was relatively small: nineteen novels and picture books (as writer) and four picture books as…
Read More*Ugly: a Memoir by Robert Hoge
In this true story, a boy born with a hideous face learns to not only accept himself, but help others see him for what he is. *Ugly: a Memoir by Robert Hoge. Viking, 2016, 200 pages Reading Level: Middle grades, 8-10 Recommended for: all ages When we come together in groups, we make amazing things. …
Read More*Ghost by Jason Reynolds
A kid from “the projects” learns to put speed in service of character building and achievement. *Ghost by Jason Reynold. Atheneum, 2016, 180 pages Reading Level: Middle Grades, ages 10-12 Recommended for: ages 10-15 Castle Crenshaw, better known as “Ghost,” knows he’s fast, ever since his father chased him and his mom out of their…
Read More*Ember Falls by S. D. Smith
The Green Ember saga continues with desperate battles, unexpected heroism, and enough dangling plot threads to make readers eager for the next volume. *Ember Falls (#2 in The Green Ember series) by S. D. Smith. Story Warren, 2016, 331 pages. Reading Level: Middle grades, ages 10-12 Recommended for: ages 8-up Picket and Heather, young rabbit…
Read MoreGrover Cleveland, Again! by Ken Burns
In this attractive, mostly balanaced picture book, documentary filmmaker Ken Burns turns his narrative skills to introducing kids to our 44 (so far) presidents. Grover Cleveland, Again! a Treasury of American Presidents By Ken Burns, illustrated by Gerald Kelley. Knopf, 2016, 96 pp. Reading Level: Middle grades, ages 10-12 Recommended for: ages 8-14 The explanation…
Read MoreVote for . . . Whoever (A Re-post from 2012)
In a campaign season, especially a big general election like this one, parents and teachers want to give the kids a clue what’s going on. We’re also supposed to be training responsible citizens who will someday take part in the political process. If you’re checking the library for books on the subject, it’s best to…
Read MoreSnow White: a Graphic Novel by Matt Phelan
In this fairy-tale retelling, Snow White is updated to the late 1920s, with the stock-market crash and the early days of the Great Depression shaping the narrative. Snow White: a Graphic Novel by Matt Phelan. Candlewick, 2016, 216 pages Reading Level: Middle Grades, 10-12 Recommended for: ages 10-up Samantha White, nicknamed Snow, is the beloved…
Read More*The Inquisitor’s Tale by Adam Gidwitz
This one-of-a-kind novel blends medieval history, fantasy, humor, adventure, and philosophical questions that have vexed the ages. *The Inquisitor’s Tale, or, Three Magical Children and Their Holy Dog by Adam Gidwitz, illuminated by Haten Aly. Dutton, 2016, 384 pages Reading Level: Middle grades, ages 10-12 Recommended for: ages 10-up Holy Cross-Roads Inn, outside Paris, March…
Read MoreGhosts by Raina Telgemeir
A much-acclaimed graphic novel by Raina Telgemeir pokes below the surface creepiness of “hauntings” to explore how we feel about death. Ghosts by Raina Telegemeir. Scholastic Graphix, 2016, 239 pages Reading level: 10-12 Recommended for: 12-up (with cautions) Catrina, or “Cat,” isn’t happy about moving from L.A. to the northern California coast, but her dad…
Read MoreThe Haunting of Falcon House by Eugene Yelchin
A ghost story for middle-graders by Eugene Yelchin offers an atmospheric portrait of Czarist Russia. The Haunting of Falcon House by Eugene Yelchin. Henry Holt, 2016, 299 pages. Reading Level: Middle grades, 8-10 Recommended for: ages 8-12 “I was the last of an ancient lineage, so when the invitation arrived from Falcon House for me…
Read More*The Radical Book for Kids by Champ Thornton
This fun and friendly compendium of Bible facts, everyday knowledge, history, how-to, wise counsel, apologetics, and doctrine is a terrific resource for every Christian kid. *The Radical Book for Kids by Champ Thornton. New Growth Press, 2016, 353 pages + subject index Reading Level: Middle Grades, 8-10 Recommended for: ages 8-14 (and up) How old…
Read MoreMichelangelo the Christian: Interview with Simonetta Carr
Yesterday’s review of Michelangelo for Kids introduced us to a Renaissance artist few people know. Today, the author gives us more insight into her research, her background, and Michelangelo the man. Be sure to scroll down for links to our other interviews with Simonetta about Anselm, Augustine, and other heroes of the faith. GIVEAWAY! Take…
Read MoreMichelangelo for Kids by Simonetta Carr
Simonetta Carr’s contribution to the popular “For Kids” series presents the great artist as not only as a true “Renaissance man” but a man of deep faith. Michelangelo for Kids: His Life and Ideas with 21 Activities by Simonetta Carr. Chicago Review Press, 2016, 130 pages including index, notes, and glossary. Reading Level: Middle grades,…
Read More*The Book of God by Ben Avery
This comprehensive, accessible guide to the history of the Bible in graphic-novel format will have young readers referring to it again and again. *The Book of God: How we Got the Bible by Ben Avery, artwork by Javiar Saltares. Kingstone Media, 2012, 124 pages Reading Level: Middle Grades, ages 10-12 Recommended for: ages 12-up “This…
Read More*Miracle Man by John Hendrix
A new “life of Jesus” picture book presents the Son of God as compelling and dynamic in word and deed. *Miracle Man: the Story of Jesus by John Hendrix. Abrams, 2016, 40 pages. Reading Level: Picture Book, ages 4-8 Recommended for: all ages The wildly popular Jesus Storybook Bible related the entire Bible narrative to…
Read MoreLearning from John Wycliffe: an Interview with Douglas Bond
Yesterday we reviewed The Revolt: a Novel in Wycliffe’s England. Today we’re happy to have the author of that book answer a few questions for us: RR (Janie): Tell us a little about your research. I know you make frequent trips overseas: did you visit Lutterworth or track down Wycliffe papers at Oxford? DB: This…
Read MoreThe Revolt by Douglas Bond
The England of John Wycliffe is vividly portrayed as a crucible of revolution in this new historical novel The Revolt: a Novel in Wycliffe’s England by Douglas Bond. P&R, 2016, 267 pages Reading Level: Teen, ages 12-15 Recommended for: ages 12-up At the battle of Crecy, August 26, 1345, two young men cross paths. One…
Read MoreThe Book of Languages by Mick Webb
In spite of some evolutionary speculation in the first pages, The Book of Languages is a fascinating and comprehensive introduction to a neglected subject. The Book of Languages: Talk Your Way around the World, by Mick Webb. Owl Kids Books, 2015, 63 pages Reading Level: Middle Grades, ages 8-10 Recommended for: ages 8-12 What language…
Read MoreMiss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs
The movie version of Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children opens today, and since none of us regular reviewers have read the book, we’re happy to welcome guest reviewer Nathanael White: Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs. Quirk books, 2011, 352 pages. Reading Level: Teen, ages 12-15 At first glance, this novel…
Read MoreFive Children on the Western Front by Kate Saunders
Edith Nesbit’s classic characters go ten years into their future in this thought-provoking sequel. Five Children on the Western Front, by Kate Saunders. Delacorte, 2016, 247 pages. Reading Level: Middle Grades, ages 10-12 Recommended for: ages 8-14 Fans of Edith Nesbit like her breezy style, her comfortable use of Edwardian slang, her humor, and her…
Read MoreHundred Percent by Karen Romano Young
This insightful novel about the awkward years between 11 and 14 could make a useful discussion starter for mothers and daughters. Hundred Percent by Karen Romano Young. Chronicle, 2016, 294 pages Reading Level: Middle Grades, 10-12 Recommended for: ages 12-15 Does anybody remember what sixth grade is like? Christine Bernadette Gouda (alias Tink) doesn’t remember…
Read MoreDollars and $ense by Elaine Scott
A survey of economic policy through the ages introduces middle-graders to such topics as fractional banking and the national debt. Dollars and $ense: a Kid’s Guide to Using—Not Losing—Money by Elaine Scott. Drawings by David Clark. Charlesbridge, 2016, 98 pages including glossary and index. Reading Level: Middle grades, ages 10-12 Recommended for: ages 8-15 Ubiquitous…
Read MoreCity Atlas: Travel the world with 30 City Maps by Georgia Cherry
Cities rather than nations are the focus of this unique, colorful, and lavishly-illustrated oversize volume for elementary grades. City Atlas: Travel the World with 30 City Maps by Georgia Cherry, illustrated by Martin Haake. Wide-Eyed Editions, 2016, 63 pages. Reading Level: Middle grades, ages 8-10 Recommended for: ages 7-12 Like Maps (Candlewick, 2013), City Atlas…
Read MoreKid Beowulf by Alexis Fajarda
A venerable legend gets a total makeover with this new graphic-novel series that does for early Europe what the Astrix series did for Rome. Kid Beowulf, Vol. 1: The Blood-Bound Oath by Alexis E. Fajarda. Andrews McMeel, 2016, 223 pages Reading Level: Middle grades, ages 10-12 Recommended for: ages 10-14 The last few years have…
Read MoreKid Owner by Tim Green
A 12-year-old inherits the Dallas Cowboys, leading to a unique set of challenges and opportunities for character growth. Kid Owner, by Tim Green. Harper, 2015, 325 pages. Reading Level: Middle Grades, ages 10-12 Recommended for: ages 10-15, especially boys Talk about fantasy football! In Chapter One Ryan Zinna discovers his dad has just died–and Ryan…
Read MoreOur 9/11 Book List
If you’ve been with us for the last few months you doubtless saw Betsy’s reviews of two recent, highly-regarded middle-grade novels about the worst foreign attack on American soil ever. But if you’re looking for good books to introduce children of all ages to what happened on September 11, 2001, we’ve been reviewing them all along.…
Read MoreThe Voyage to Magical North by Claire Fayers
Friendly pirates, malicious magicians and imaginative geography make this middle-grade series starter fun and even a bit thought-provoking. The Voyage to Magical North by Claire Fayers. Henry Holt, 2016, 311 pages Reading level: Middle Grades, ages 10-12 Recommended for: ages 10 and up As a small child, Brine was found in a rowboat at sea. …
Read MoreSteeplejack by A. J. Hartley
A classic mystery unfolds in this historical fantasy for teens, with an appealing heroine, a multi-racial cast of characters, and an exotic setting. Steeplejack by A. J. Hartley. Tor Teen, 2016, 334 pages Reading Level: Teen, ages 12-15 Recommended for: ages 15-18 Anglet Sulonga, 17, is a “steeplejack in the city of Bar-Selehm—the old part,…
Read MoreWe Will Not Be Silent by Russell Freedman
Russell Freedman covers the White Rose student movement, a German anti-Nazi protest during World War II, with an emphasis on the organizers’ Christian faith. We Will Not Be Silent: the White Rose Student Resistance Movement that Defied Hitler by Russell Freedman. Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2016, 104 pages including index Reading Level: Teen, ages 12-15 Recommended…
Read MoreSpirit Week Showdown by Crystal Allen
Mya Tibbs is the perky, enthusiastic narrator of this family- and school-based series for advanced chapter-book readers. Spirit Week Showdown (Magnificent Myra Tibbs #1) by Crystal Allen. Balzer & Bray, 2016, 227 pages Reading Level: Chapter Book, ages 4-8 Recommended for: Ages 6-10 Mya, just starting 4th grade, is totally looking forward to Spirit Week…
Read More*Calvin by Martine Leavitt
A schizophrenic teen embarks on a quest for self-discovery and truth that becomes a struggle for survival. Calvin by Martine Leavitt. Farrar Strauss and Giroux, 2016, 181 pages Reading Level: Teen, ages 12-15 Recommended for: ages 13-up In the middle of a high-achieving high school career, Calvin slides off reality and ends up in a…
Read MoreKatie Friedman Gives up Texting by Tommy Greenwald
Middle-graders who swear of texting for one week have to discover other means of communication, with mixed results. Katie Friedman Gives up Texting by Tommy Greenwald. Roaring Brook, 2015, 227 pages Reading Level: Middle Grades, 10-12 Recommended for: ages 10-14 When Katie accidentally sends a dismissive text to her supposed boyfriend Nareem, with predicable results,…
Read MoreBible Review: *HCSB Essential Teen Study Bible
The HCSB Essential Teen Study Bible presents 99 “Essential Doctrines” with extensive scriptural backup and application. *The HCSB Essential Teen Study Bible. B&H Kids, 2016, 1312 pages. (Available in several softcover and one hardcover edition) Reading Level: Middle Grades, 10-12 Recommended for: ages 10-17 The Holman Christian Standard translation (now available as the Christian Standard) is…
Read MoreQuiet Power: the Secret Strengths of Introverts by Susan Cain
Susan Cain adapts her adult best-seller Quiet for a younger audience, sharing thoughts and tips on making the most of an introverted nature. Quiet Power: The Secret Strengths of Introverts by Susan Cain. Dial, 2016, 272 pages including index and notes Reading Level: Young Adult, 12-15 Recommended for: ages 12-18 When the author was nine,…
Read MoreJosh Baxter Levels Up by Gavin Brown
A 12-year-old video gamer learns to “level up” his academic and social skills to meet real-life challenges. Josh Baxter Levels Up by Gavin Brown. Scholastic, 2016, 172 pages. Reading level: Middle Grades, 10-12 Recommended for: ages 8-12, especially boys Reality isn’t easy for a compulsive gamer, especially when your single mom is holding down two…
Read MoreIt Ain’t So Awful, Falafel by Firoozah Dumas
An Iranian girl in a California middle school struggles to bridge cultures in this compelling, semi-autobiographical narrative. It Ain’t So Awful, Falafel by Firoozah Dumas. Clarion, 2016, 370 pages Reading Level: Middle Grade, ages 10-12 Recommended for: ages 10-up Zomorod Yousefzadeh has a complicated history: born in Abadan, Iran, she has moved between Iran and…
Read More*Frank and Lucky Get Schooled by Lynn Rae Perkins
Frank and Lucky’s close friendship leads them into countless adventures in learning, where “school subjects” never see the inside of a classroom. *Frank and Lucky Get Schooled by Lynn Rae Perkins. Greenwillow, 2016, 32 pages Reading Level: Picture Books, Ages 4-8 Recommended for: ages 5-8 Frank was a boy without a dog. Lucky was a…
Read More*The Boy Who Became Buffalo Bill by Andrea Warren
This accessible biography reveals the extraordinary, historically significant, and surprisingly admirable life of an American legend. *The Boy Who Became Buffalo Bill: Growing Up Billy Cody in Bleeding Kansas by Andrea Warren. Two Lions Press, 2015, 241 pages, including notes and index Reading Level: Middle Grades, 10-12 Recommended for: Ages 10-15 His father, Isaac, was…
Read More*A Night Divided by Jennifer Nielsen
The building of the Berlin Wall pits lovers of freedom against an oppressive regime in this gripping novel for middle graders. *A Night Divided by Jennifer Nielsen. Scholastic, 2015, 317 pages Reading Level: Middle Grades, ages 10-12 Recommended for: ages 12-16 Berlin, 1961: Gerta’s father knows they should escape the Communist iron grip that is…
Read MoreMayday by Karen Harrington
In Mayday, 13-year-old Wayne discovers that even a plane crash can have a silver lining, and treasures may hide under life’s hard knocks. Mayday by Karen Harrington. Little, Brown, 2016, 344 pages. Reading Level: Middle Grade, 10-12 Recommended for: ages 10-14 While flying home from the funeral of his Uncle Reed at Arlington National Cemetery,…
Read MoreRoller Girl by Victoria Jamieson
The rough, tough world of girls’ roller derby is the setting for this surprisingly sweet depiction of friendship, breakup, and change. Roller Girl by Victoria Jamieson. Dial Graphic, 2015, 240 pages Reading Level: Middle Grades, ages 8-10 Recommended for: ages 10-14 Astrid and Nicole have been best friends since kindergarten, but not necessarily because they…
Read MoreFantastic Frame #1: Danger! Tiger Crossing by Lin Oliver
The Fantastic Frame chapter-book series introduces early-elementary-age readers to great works of art. Fantastic Frame #1: Danger! Tiger Crossing by Lin Oliver, illustrated by Samantha Kallis. Grosset & Dunlap, 2016, 122 pages Reading Level: Middle Grades, 8-10 Recommended for: ages 6-10 Tyler and his family have moved to a new neighborhood and right off the…
Read MoreCommander in Cheese #1: the Big Move by Lindsey Leavitt
Commander in Cheese, a new series for beginning readers, pairs a mouse family in the White House with the family of a brand-new president. Commander in Cheese #1: the Big Move by Lindsey Leavitt, illustrated by A. G. Ford. Random House, 2016, 97 pages. Reading Level: Chapter Books, Ages 4-8 Recommended for: ages 6-10 The…
Read MoreWhat Elephants Know by Erick Dinerstein
Lowland Tibet is the exotic setting for this coming-of-age story featuring an 11-year-old boy and the elephants he loves. What Elephants Know by Erick Dinerstein. Disney Hyperion, 2016, 268 pages Reading Level: Middle Grade, ages 10-12 Recommended for: ages 10-14 Nandu Sindh was only a baby when he was found by Devi Kali and the…
Read MoreTalking about Books That Talk about Race
Not a “Newbery Buzz” post because these titles were published before 2016 and are already award winners! But, for similar posts in which Janie and Betsy discuss books, check out our Newbery Buzz series. Janie: Earlier this week, we reviewed two novels about what might be called “the black experience.” One of them, When I Was…
Read MoreWhen I Was the Greatest by Jason Reynolds
A black teen in the ‘hood struggles to maintain his focus when his best friend takes a wrong turn with potentially serious consequences. When I Was the Greatest by Jason Reynolds. Atheneum, 2014, 230 pages. Reading Level: Young Adult, ages 12-15 Recommended for: mature teens, ages 15-18 Even though Allen (Ali) and his little sister…
Read MoreHilo: Saving the Whole Wide World by Judd Winick
The exuberant boy-robot Hilo is back from “the void,” pursuing his mission to destroy his arch-enemy Razorwark and discover his own origin and purpose. Hilo Book 2: Saving the Whole Wide World by Judd Winick. Random House, 2016, 193 pages Reading Level: Middle Grade, ages 8-10 Recommended for: ages 6-12, especially boys In this second…
Read MoreThe Mother-Daughter Book Club by Heather Vogel Frederick
In this series opener, four sixth-grade girls discover that reading the classics can change contemporary attitudes.
Read MoreThe Mother-Daughter Book Camp by Heather Vogel Frederick
The Mother-Daughter Book Club series wraps up with all five members of the club serving as camp counselors together before launching their adult lives. The Mother-Daughter Book Camp by Heather Vogel Frederick. Simon & Shuster, 2016, 321 pages Reading Level: Middle Grade, 10-12 Recommended for: ages 11-16 (especially girls) Emma, Jess, et al., take one…
Read MoreThe Revolutionary War by Mort Kunstler
Key events of the American Revolution are celebrated by one of our nation’s preeminent historical painters. The Revolutionary War 1775-1783 (See American History Series) by Mort Kunstler, text by Alan Axelrod. Abbeville Press, 2016, 45 pages including appendix. Reading Level: Middle Grades, ages 8-10 Recommended for: ages 5-12 Mort Kunstler is perhaps best known…
Read MoreThe Big Dark by Rodman Philbrick
A small England Community fights for survival when a solar flare wipes out all sources of power, in this taut thriller with a 12-year-old hero. The Big Dark by Rodman Philbrick. Scholastic, 2015, 176 pages Reading Level: Middle Grades, ages 10-12 Recommended for: ages 12-15, especially reluctant readers The whole town of Harmony, NH, is…
Read MoreThe Double Cross by Jackson Pearce
A 12-year-old spy trainee proves his calling in spite of obvious physical drawbacks, in this entertaining middle-grade adventure. The Double Cross, and Other Skills I Learned as a Superspy by Jackson Pearce. Bloomsbury, 2015, 291 pages. Reading Level: Middle Grades, ages 10-12 Recommended for: ages 10-14, especially boys Hale Jordan is, well, fat—a factor that…
Read MoreThe Magic Mirror by Susan Hill Long
A few language cautions aside, this medieval fantasy tale illustrates some profound truths about finding oneself in the journey. The Magic Mirror: Concerning a Lonely Princess, a Foundling Girl, a Scheming King, and a Pickpocket Squirrel by Susan Hill Long. Knopf, 2016, 308 pages Reading Level: Middle grades, ages 10-12 Recommended for: ages 10-up…
Read MoreThe Goblin’s Puzzle by Andrew S. Chilton
This lively tale combines a fairy-tale plot and likeable characters—even a likeable dragon—with philosophical musings. The Goblin’s Puzzle: Being the Adventures of a Boy with No Name and Two Girls Called Alice, by Andrew S. Chilton. Knopf, 2016, 279 pages Reading Level: Middle Grades, 10-12 Recommended for: ages 10-15 The Boy has nothing, not…
Read MoreLittle Dee and the Penguin by Christopher Baldwin
Sunny and warm, this graphic novel combines a wildly implausible plot with distinct personalities—and lots of laughs. Little Dee and the Penguin by Christopher Baldwin. Dial, 206, 128 pages Reading Level: Middle Grades, ages 10-12 Recommended for: 8-up Little Dee, who appears to be about 5, lives happily with her park-ranger dad until the night…
Read MoreThe Eye of Midnight by Andrew Brumbach
A thrilling tale set in 1920s New York pits three children against a foe that bears an uncanny resemblance to modern-day Islamism. The Eye of Midnight by Andrew Brumbach. Delacorte, 2016, 234 pages Reading Level: Middle Grades, 10-12 Recommended for: ages 10-14 New York City, 1929: Cousins William and Maxine barely remember their grandfather, with…
Read MoreAstrotwins: Project Blastoff by Mark Kelly
Solid science fiction is delivered by an author who knows his stuff, though the materialist worldview is worth talking about. Astrotwins: Project Blastoff by Mark Kelly and Martha Freeman. Simon and Shuster, 2015, 201 pages Reading Level: 8-10 Recommended for: 8-12 If the name Mark Kelly sounds familiar, it’s because he’s a former astronaut married…
Read MoreFrank Einstein and the Anti-Matter Motor by Jon Schieszka
Though not to be taken at all seriously, this wacky series by Jon Schieszka threads some real science into its far-out storylines. Frank Einstein and the Anti-Matter Motor (Frank Einstein #1) by Jon Schieszka. Amulet, 2015, 180 pages. Reading Level: Middle Grades, ages 8-10 Recommended for: ages 8-12, especially boys While his parents are traveling…
Read MoreThe Terrible Two by Mac Barnett and Jory John
A fifth-grade prankster meets his match, joining forces with his rival to pull off the greatest fifth-grade prank of all time. The Terrible Two by Mac Barnett and Jory John. Amulet, 2015, 217 pages Reading Level: Middle Grades, ages 8-10 Recommended for: ages 8-12, especially boys Miles Murphy, age 11, is not happy about moving…
Read MoreTerror at Bottle Creek by Watt Key
In a fast, thrilling read, a 13-year-old boy must display courage, ingenuity, and persistence in extremely dangerous circumstances. Terror at Bottle Creek by Watt Key. Farrar Straus and Giroux, 2015, 224 pages. Reading Level: Middle grades, ages 10-12 Recommended for: ages 12-15, especially boys Life on the Alabama coast isn’t so bad, especially if your…
Read MoreSoar by Joan Bauer
In this cozy sports story, Jeremiah has learned through difficulty, but may not be able to pass the lessons on to his teammates. Soar by Joan Bauer. Viking, 2015, 237 pages Reading level: Middle Grades, ages 10-12 Recommended for: ages 10-14 Jeremiah Lopper has an unusual origin story: At the age of nine months or…
Read MoreSunny Side Up by Jennifer Holm
In this graphic novel with a bittersweet twist, Sunny’s disappointing “vacation” in her grandfather’s retirement community conceals some family secrets. Sunny Side Up by Jennifer Holm, illustrated by Matthew Holm. Scholastic Graphix, 2015, 216 pages Reading Level: 8-10 Recommended for: 8-12 Sunny, age 10, was anticipating a classic beach vacation with her best friend, but…
Read MoreMy Life in Pictures by Deborah Zemke
Bea Garcia learns to deal with disappointment and make the most of her artistic gifts in this first cartoon-illustrated installment of a series. My Life in Pictures (Bea Garcia #1) by Deborah Zemke. Dial, 2016, 134 pages Reading Level: Chapter Books, ages 4-8 Recommended for: ages 6-10 It’s bad enough when your best friend moves…
Read MoreSweet Home Alaska by Carole Estby Dagg
Sweet Home Alaska by Carole Estby Dagg. Penguin, February 2016, 296 pages Reading Level: Middle Grades, ages 10-12 Recommended for: ages 10-14 Bottom Line: An 11-year-old discovers the pioneering spirit in the last frontier, in this entertaining historical adventure that echoes Laura Ingalls Wilder. Terpsichore Johnson’s family is down to their last pumpkin. Mr. Johnson…
Read MoreTru and Nelle by G. Neri
Tru and Nelle by G. Neri. Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2016, 336 pages Reading Level: Middle Grades, ages 8-10 Recommended for: ages 8-12 Bottom Line: Based on the childhood friendship of Harper Lee and Truman Capote, this middle-grade novel highlights the experiences that shaped an American classic. Tru (short for Truman) is a fussy little clothes-horse…
Read MoreRaymie Nightingale by Kate DiCamillo
Three 10-year-old girls cope with life’s ups and downs by learning to rely on each other, in a story with “magical” elements. Raymie Nightingale by Kate DiCamillo. Candlewick, 2016, 263 pages Reading Level: Middle grades, ages 8-10 Recommended for: ages 8-12 Raymie Clarke, age 10, has one goal: by winning the Little Miss Central Florida…
Read MoreBible Review: *The NLT Jesus-Centered Bible
*NLT Jesus-Centered Bible. Group Publishing, 2015, 1440 pages. (Available in hard- and soft-cover editions.) Reading Level: Middle Grades, ages 8-10 Recommended for: ages 12-17 Bottom Line: The NLT Jesus Centered Bible is a serious attempt to revel Christ as the centerpiece and main character of both Old and New Testaments. The New Living Translation (see…
Read MoreBible Review: NIV Bible for Teen Girls: Growing in Faith Hope and Love
NIV Bible for Teen Girls: Growing in Faith, Hope and Love. Zondervan, 2015, 1728 pages. (available in hard- and soft-cover editions) Reading Level: Middle Grades, 10-12 Recommended for: ages 11-16 Bottom Line: The NIV Bible for Teen Girls is physically attractive and encouraging, but the added features are not as deep and thought-provoking as other…
Read MoreBible Review: NIV Big Dreams, Big Prayers Bible
NIV Big Dreams, Big Prayers Bible. Zonderkidz, 2016, 1344 pages. (Soft- and hardcover editions available) Reading Level: Middle grades, ages 10-12 Recommended for: Middle grades, ages 8-12 Bottom Line: The prayer-focused goal of this Bible is laudable, but the execution leaves something to be desired. As advertised, the focus of this Bible is all about…
Read MoreBible Review: NKJV Courage Bible/NKJV Faith Bible
NKJV Courage Bible/NKJV Faith Bible. Holman Bible Publishers, 2014, 1568 pages Reading Level: Young Adult, ages 12-15 Recommended for: ages 10-15 Bottom Line: An accurate, readable translation, comfortable text size and helpful inserts make this a good choice for reading along in family devotionals and church. “Courage” is a red cover with a blue star…
Read MoreBible Review: NKJV Study Bible for Kids
NKJV Study Bible for Kids. Thomas Nelson, 2015, 1536 pages. Reading Level: Young Adult, ages 12-15 Recommended for: ages 10-12 Bottom Line: The movie-themed features can be a bit distracting, but the study notes and supplements are sound and the rainbow colors appealing. This is a “themed” Bible, and the theme is the wonderful world…
Read MoreBible Review NIrV Faith Builders/ NIrV Under the Sea
We’re back!! Thanks again for your patience while we cleared up our site hack problems. You’ll notice a rather stripped-down version of RedeemedReader, but be aware we’re working on some big improvements for the future. This week, we’re back with our annual crop of children’s Bible reviews–two today, three more throughout the week, and next…
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