Reviewed by David 12th grade – It isn’t your stereotypical LGBTQIA+ Book. This book is about two gay Best friends on the run from a famous killer but also accused of being a killer. It is a realistic fiction book that is mainly featuring queer representation, but the book itself doesn’t focus on the main struggles of it, It mentions some of the struggles of being queer but also being discriminated by color. I love how they represented the idea of friendships in the queer community and how they can be very different. It also shines some light on being a gay person of color and the difference between the reactions people get. I love it honestly. Trigger Warnings: At the start, it discusses that there will be some graphic scenes. Not too bad but still more so than a typical book.
Silverwing
Silverwing: The Graphic Novel Adaptation, based on the first novel in Kenneth Oppel’s beloved trilogy, brings the adventurous tale of the young, heroic bat Shade to life with vivid illustrations. I was excited to add this adaptation to our collection, anticipating it would capture the interest and imaginations of our students. While the artwork is indeed captivating and adds a new dimension to the story, I’ve noticed that some students find it challenging to follow the narrative in this graphic format.
The primary issue seems to be the pacing and transition between scenes. The graphic novel format, with its reliance on visual storytelling and condensed text, makes it difficult for some readers to grasp the full depth of the plot and character development- or to even identify characters in some scenes. Key moments that are more fleshed out in the original novel can feel rushed or unclear in this adaptation. Despite these challenges, I believe Silverwing: The Graphic Novel can still be a quality resource for visual learners and a great way to introduce Kenneth Oppel’s world to new fantasy readers.
Looking Up by Stephen Pastis
Looking Up by Stephen Pastis- R
Looking Up by Stephen Pastis is a delightful addition to our library, perfect for middle-grade readers. I appreciate how Pastis seamlessly blends humor with deeper themes, making the story both laughter-provoking and thought-provoking for young readers. The protagonist, Saint, is a wonderfully relatable and quirky character who deals with complex emotions in a way that is accessible for children.
This book is not only a joy to read but also a valuable tool for teaching empathy and understanding. Pastis’ background in comics shines through in the witty dialogue and fast-paced storytelling, keeping students entertained and engaged while subtly addressing important life lessons. The community setting and the characters’ quest to save their town emphasizes the importance of togetherness and perseverance. Looking Up is a recommended addition to our shelves, offering both laughter and meaningful insights for our young readers.
Too Cute! Baby Skunks by Elizabeth Neuenfeldt
Baby skunks are called kits and they live in a den. This nonfiction series is adorable. While the information is very simple, it is great for beginning readers. The print is large and there are 1-2 simple sentences on the page. Key words are in bold and photographs with a label is included on the page to illustrate what the word means.The back includes the stages of life of a skunk, a picture glossary, an index and a website for more information.
Too Cute! Baby Turtles by Elizabeth Neuenfeldt
Baby turtles hatch from eggs. When they leave the nest, they do not go back. This nonfiction series is adorable. While the information is very simple, it is great for beginning readers. The print is large and there are 1-2 simple sentences on the page. Key words are in bold and photographs with a label is included on the page to illustrate what the word means.The back includes the stages of life of a turtle, a picture glossary, an index and a website for more information.
Too Cute! Baby Seals by Elizabeth Neuenfeldt
Baby seals live in colonies. As they get older, they spend more time alone. This nonfiction series is adorable. While the information is very simple, it is great for beginning readers. The print is large and there are 1-2 simple sentences on the page. Key words are in bold and photographs with a label is included on the page to illustrate what the word means.The back includes the stages of life of a seal, a picture glossary, an index and a website for more information.
Too Cute! Baby Lions by Elizabeth Neuenfeldt
Baby lions join the mom’s pride and play with other cubs. This nonfiction series is adorable. While the information is very simple, it is great for beginning readers. The print is large and there are 1-2 simple sentences on the page. Key words are in bold and photographs with a label is included on the page to illustrate what the word means.The back includes facts about the animal, a picture glossary, an index and a website for more information.
Mother of Sharks by Melissa Cristina Marquez
The illustration on the cover makes you want to pick up the book and the story inside did not disappoint. Meli is enjoying playing in the beautiful waters of Playita del Condado when she spots some tidal pools and encounters a talking hermit crab named Jaiba. Jaiba takes Meli on adventures to explore the ocean. She learns about different animals in the ocean and the effects of ocean pollution. Jaiba eventually takes her to the future to see herself as the Mother of Sharks.
The pictures are bright and evoke the feeling of being underwater. The text is in English with Spanish words incorporated throughout. The print is small for a picture book. The end of the book includes a letter from the author, glossary, translations, and resources. The end pages include illustrations of different sharks.
The author is a Hispanic marine biologist and was featured in Forbes 30 Under 30: Science list.
A Crocodile Should Never Skip Breakfast by Colleen Larmour
Croc is late for work one morning and doesn’t have time to eat breakfast. That’s okay, he will grab donuts from Hippo. But Hippo is sold out. At least he has an emergency banana, but the banana is bad. Croc starts dreaming about food while he is trying to work, hopefully he won’t eat the animals who are his passengers!
The illustrations are whimsical and the colors of the book are bright and vibrant. Most of the animals are drawn in the actual colors, while the alligator is blue and the hippo is pink. It is a funny, fast paced story with text and speech bubbles which lends itself to various voices as a read-aloud.
The Miami Dolphins (NFL Team Profiles)
Dive into the world of the Miami Dolphins with this captivating team profile! Covering the team’s incredible perfect season in 1972 to the successful seasons under quarterback Dan Marino, this book highlights the Dolphins’ history, accomplishments, and legendary players. Kids will enjoy learning about game day traditions and T.D., the team’s mascot.
Written at a 2nd-grade reading level, it’s ideal for students from elementary to middle school. The book includes a useful table of contents, a timeline of key events, a map showing the team’s location, a glossary, and an index. A “To Learn More” page also encourages students to continue exploring the Dolphins, both in the library and online. This is a must-read for any young Dolphins fan!