Review of It Came From the Trees by Ally Russell

 

When her best friend is taken by a creature in the woods, Jenna is determined to save her in this scary story perfect for fans of Daka Hermon and Claribel A. Ortega!

The wilderness is in Jenna’s blood. Her Pap was the first Black park ranger at Sturbridge Reservation, and she practically knows the Owlet Survival Handbook by heart. But she’s never encountered a creature like the one that took her best friend Reese. Her parents don’t believe her; the police are worthless, following the wrong leads; and the media isn’t connecting the dots between Reese’s disappearance and a string of other attacks. Determined to save her friend, Jenna joins a new local scout troop, and ventures back into the woods.

When the troop stumbles across suspicious signs: huge human-like footprints near the camp, scratch marks on trees, and ominous sounds from the woods, Jenna worries that whatever took Reese is back to take her too. Can she trust her new scout leader? And will her new friend Norrie—who makes her laugh and reminds her so much of Reese—believe her?

After the unthinkable happens, the scouts, armed with their wits and toiletries, band together to fight the monster and survive the night.

Available on Amazon

(affiliate links included)

**My thoughts**

I can't remember how I stumbled upon this middle grade horror book, but downloaded it via my Libby app to try. I read the whole thing over an extended dinner period on a quiet weekend. 

It's totally the kind of book I would have loved back in my late elementary and junior high years. I was alternating between middle grade titles like this one and Stephen King books at the time. This one has elements of both. There's definitely that spine-tingling creepy factor that will have readers keeping an extra close eye out the next time they are outside in the woods. And fans of Stephen King should recognize a nod to one of his classics about a group of kids standing up to an evil monster.

The narrative is done so well that I could envision the entire story playing out in my head. It would be a great one to adapt to the screen, a la Goosebumps. I'm looking forward to reading more stories from this debut author.

Review of Melissa (Previously published as George) by Alex Gino

 

BE WHO YOU ARE.

When people look at Melissa, they think they see a boy named George. But she knows she's not a boy. She knows she's a girl.

Melissa thinks she'll have to keep this a secret forever. Then her teacher announces that their class play is going to be Charlotte's Web. Melissa really, really, REALLY wants to play Charlotte. But the teacher says she can't even try out for the part... because she's a boy.

With the help of her best friend, Kelly, Melissa comes up with a plan. Not just so she can be Charlotte -- but so everyone can know who she is, once and for all.

Available on Amazon

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**My thoughts**

I had been hearing about this book since it came out, so it had been on my list for a while. I grabbed it on sale and finally had some time to sit down and read it. I was blown away and applaud the author for putting this book out there, even more so for recognizing that the book needed to be renamed to Melissa instead of George.

George may be young, but he knows he doesn't fit into the mold that his surroundings have created for him. He knows that he feels the most comfortable as a girl. Therefore, he is a she and she is Melissa. Only it's a secret that she is hiding from the rest of the world. You can feel the pain she feels when people mislabel her or tell her that she can't do something that she knews she can. (For example, portraying Charlotte in the play of Charlotte's Web at school.) You get a sense of her discomfort as she keeps playing pretend on the outside when it conflicts who she really is on the inside.

It's hard enough trying to figure out who you really are. It has to be even harder to know who you really are, but feel societal pressure to be someone else. Yes, we all go through some of that, but for people who are transgender, it is significantly more difficult. This book touches on some of those struggles and could make some children feel like they are not alone. They may finally actually see themselves in a book, giving them some validation. As Alex Gino says in the interview at the back of the book, they wrote a book that they would have loved to have had as a kid.

Other children can read this book and figure out how to be supportive and how to not be a jerk. Actually, the same is true of grownups. It can give you a starting point for conversations with loved ones.

I love Melissa's determination to be true to herself and to start getting what she wants out of life, even at such a young age. I feel like the younger generations are stronger than we ever were and love seeing characters who demonstrate that strength, even in the face of adversity. I'm so grateful that she has Kelly as a best friend, someone who loves her for who she really is. I respect the adults who are willing to step out of their own comfort zones for the good of others. Yes, everything feels like it gets tied up nicely with a big bow in this story. But isn't that what we are all striving for? 

This is a book that I hope makes it into the hands of all people who need to read it, especially the younger ones. It's a great example of a book to read with your child, to start discussions. I was fortunate enough to have parents who did that for me. There's a great Q&A section in the back of the book that can help facilitate those conversations. We need more discussion of these important topics and less banning.

Looking forward to reading more of Mx. Gino's work in the future!

Review of Blubber by Judy Blume

 

Blubber is a good name for her, the note from Wendy says about Linda. Jill crumples it up and leaves it on the corner of her desk. She doesn't want to think about Linda or her dumb report on the whale just now. Jill wants to think about Halloween.

But Robby grabs the note, and before Linda stops talking it has gone halfway around the room.

That's where it all starts. There's something about Linda that makes a lot of kids in her fifth-grade class want to see how far they can go -- but nobody, least of all Jill, expects the fun to end where it does.
A New York Times Outstanding Book of the Year

Goodreads * Amazon

(affiliate links included)

**My thoughts**

Judy Blume's books were a staple of my childhood reading. Her books were so relevant to us at the time and she was actively publishing during my childhood. I remember reading Blubber when I was in about the 4th grade and really felt like I related to Linda because I was that chunky girl in my class. In fact, the title of this book likely did encourage some of the kids to give me the same moniker, though I somewhat ignored them. And I also sort of related to Jill and her friends, because I know I was a part of making fun of other children as well.

Fast forward to me being a middle-aged adult. I almost cringe reading this now. Narrator Jill is much nastier about Linda than I remember reading when I was a kid. If that isn't bad enough, I can hear her words in my own voice, reminding me of how mean I could also be as a kid. [I feel like we all had our moments.] And I don't think it hit me as hard back then how bullied Jill was as well, particularly for not following along with Wendy and her crew all the time. I'd like to think that in the past several years, we've been working on teaching children to act better. But the problem continues to persist, at least as bad as depicted in this story.

For the first time, I realized that this book also tackles children bullying adults, as they go after their neighbor, Mr. Machinist, on Halloween. This is something that we don't often think about when we are talking about kids and how they treat others.

And then there is my teacher side. I've been an educator my entire adult life. It also hurts me to see teachers portrayed as not noticing the bullying going on. And yet, I know that's a sad fact of life, even today. I like to think that I'm more on top of it than my peers in the field. But I also work with younger children, so it's different. Even worse is how some of the teachers are also doing some of the bullying. I know everyone would like to think that teachers don't do that, but I continue to witness some appalling behavior and comments out of teachers to this day.

But I'm glad that it hurts and has an impact on me, even as an adult. It just proves to me that this book is still important. Bullying is sadly an ongoing issue among children [and adults], and something that I'm not sure we'll ever completely eradicate. But reading a book like this could easily provoke some good conversations between adults and children. Some children may recognize themselves in the story, which is also important. My hope is that they would be more aware of their own words and actions and make the appropriate adjustments. 

 

Review of Mansa's Little Reminders: The Money Workbook for Kids Part 1 by AD Williams and Kendal Fordham

  

Children learn about financial literacy, wealth creation, and money management in this easy-to-follow workbook developed as a second step to Mansa’s Little Reminders book. In this workbook, children will learn the tools to normalize wealth and financial freedom. Learning is easy and long-lasting through the use of interactive exercises and fun assignments.

Parents, families, and educators can support their children in developing foundational skills to responsibly earn and retain money. Together, we can create a generation of future wealth builders.

This workbook will:

• Teach children about budgeting & saving money
• Introduce kids to the role of an entrepreneur
• Have them run through real business scenarios appropriate for their age
• Encourage them to interact with elders to seek guidance and mentorship

Goodreads * Kindle * Paperback

(affiliate links included)

**My thoughts**

I love this workbook for kids. It goes into a lot more detail than the original book did - as it should - and gives a lot of real world advice to help children be more financially savvy, including becoming young entrepreneurs. There are comprehensive defnitions of important terms as well as numerous exercises that really break down how to create your own little business (like the childhood favorite lemonade stand) and to save money for financial success. These exercises are linked to the website, so you can still easily work through this as a Kindle copy or as a paperback workbook. I especially love the reflection questions that help you troubleshoot problem areas and evaluate what has worked well on a regular basis. I think even some adults could learn a little from going through this book!

I received a requested review copy from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Check out the book Mansa's Little Reminders here. 

About the authors:

A.D. Williams learned early on how powerful representation is in books. Ensuring that kids can see and feel success through the lens of characters that look and face many of the same challenges they do. When I was growing up no one talked about investing, wealth, business plans or how to acquire real wealth,” said A.D. His underlying motivation is that this book will ignite discussions around finances in households across the world and be a seed that blossoms until wealth equity for our children. In addition to his writing, A.D. is a children hospital administrator, private investor, and entrepreneur.

Kendal Fordham is a mother, a Wealth Manager, business owner, real estate investor, and now author. She is passionate about her growing faith in Jesus Christ, financial literacy, and creating a legacy that supports and inspires her family.

Review of #GrowYourCircle (Mila on Purpose Book 1) by Professor Stork

   

Mila is a young girl with a strong sense of purpose. She also listens and pays attention to the words and thoughts of wise advisers, like her parents and teachers. Through everyday actions imbued with kindness and consideration, Mila is intent on fostering positive change in her community and across the globe.

#GrowYourCircle is a trailblazing graphic novel for children 6-10, their parents and teachers. The book nurtures children’s innate sense of purpose and helps build strong, positive leadership skills.

On Amazon

Kindle * Paperback * Hardcover

(Affiliate links included)

**My thoughts**

This book has a great message for kids about how doing one small thing can actually lead to something tremendous. Mila is fascinated by the new girl in class, but isn't sure how to approach her. She has a wonderful conversation with her mother, strategizing about how to reach out and to "grow her circle" of people in her life. It's something that we all need to learn how to do - get to know other people outside of our comfort zone of the usual suspects. And the two girls learn a lot about becoming friends, their similiarities and differences. The intertwining of their worlds makes their worlds grow and thrive. Parts of their story reminds me of my own childhood, meeting new people from diverse backgrounds and having our families get to know each other.

The story really does seem to come from a young girl, as the accompanying illustrations are more juvenile than you usually see in books. It makes me feel like a child actually did the bulk of it. I think that could inspire children to maybe make their own friendship stories and books.

There's also the social media aspect where the kids come up with the hashtag #GrowYourCircle. If appropriate, it could turn into a class project to see if they could create their own special project to fulfill this hashtag and its ideas. At the very least, there are activities at the end of the book that could be used in the classroom or even at home.

I received a requested review copy from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

About the Author

Professor Stork is on a mission to write and publish books that help children build and nurture self-worth, creativity, compassion, leadership skills and a sense of purpose. He believes children are catalysts for positive change, and that reading is a way for them to begin the journey leading to a fulfilling, purposeful life.

Review of Bobby's Story (Mr. Grizley's Class) by Bryan Patrick Avery, illustrated by Arief Putra

 

When Bobby learns more about homelessness, he wants to tell his classmates and help make a difference. But everyone is busy and distracted by their own activities. Can he find a way to tell this important story?

Goodreads * Amazon * BN

(affiliate links included throughout)

**My thoughts**

This is a very short chapter book about a boy named Bobby who writes his own comic series about the Purple Potato. One day he literally runs into a high school girl named Ashley who is sharing flyers to raise awareness about homelessness. Bobby wants to help spread the world to his classmates, but has to find a clever way to get their attention.

What I like about this book is it is a call to action for kids to get involved in causes that are important to them. They learn how to make a flyer to support their cause. They are also encouraged to think of other ways to spread their message.

I was left wanting a bit more, though. A couple of facts about homelessness are included in the story. The kids get excited to help do something. I think it would have been a great time to introduce at least one actionable thing they could do to put on the flyer. And I think even showing us what Ashley's flyer looked like may have helped fuel that want. But this does provide a great foundation for more discussions with kids about important topics.

I did love the illustrations. They are very vibrant and show off the diverse classmates and captures their personalities. 

I received a reuqested review copy from the publisher via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

This series is available on Amazon Kids+.

Click on a cover below to find out more about the Mr. Grizley's Class series by Bryan Patrick Avery.

Review of Isaiah Dunn Saves the Day by Kelly J. Baptist

 

Starting middle school is no joke! Isaiah Dunn has more to say in the sequel to the award-winning novel Isaiah Dunn Is My Hero. Friendship, community, and a love of words blend in this coming-of-age tale.

Things are looking up for super kid Isaiah Dunn. He and his little sister, Charlie, are getting used to staying with Miz Rita, and Mama's feeling better. Isaiah's poetry business with Angel is taking off, and his best friend, Sneaky, always has a new hustle. Plus, Isaiah has his dad's journals for a story or if he needs advice....

Like maybe now, because starting middle school is hard. Especially when his mentee Kobe won't stop making trouble. Isaiah knows something is up, but to get to the bottom of Kobe's secret, he'll have to rely on every hero he knows--including himself!

Discover the heartfelt and humorous sequel to the award-winning novel Isaiah Dunn Is My Hero.

Goodreads * Amazon * BN

(affiliate link included)

**My thoughts**

This is the second full-length middle-grade novel featuring my new favorite kid hero, Isaiah Dunn. I loved it as much as the first one. I already can't wait for the next one!

He's now starting middle school and his home life is more stable. His best friend, Sneaky, wants him to come play football. But Isaiah's first love is still the written word. Plus his business with Angel is expanding. And he still has his hours at Rock's barbershop. And then he's getting roped into Rockets Reach Back, a mentorship program that pairs him with a struggling elementary student. He is going to end up learning as much from Kobe as Kobe does from him.

I love this story because not only does Isaiah grow a lot within himself, but he learns how to help others. And while he is doing mentoring of his own, he is being mentored to through his job and others in his life. It's a great learning lesson for both kids and adults about how we can all do so much good, even with one seemingly simple act.

Isaiah Dunn is an important voice in children's literature and can appeal to so many readers. I hope we keep hearing his story for quite some time!

Thank you to the publisher for fulfilling my review request via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Click on a title to read my review of the  Isaiah Dunn series by Kelly J. Baptist:

Isaiah Dunn Is My Hero

Isaiah Dunn Saves the Day

Review of Look Both Ways: A Tale Told in Ten Blocks by Jason Reynolds

Carnegie Medal winner

A National Book Award Finalist

Coretta Scott King Author Honor Book

An NPR Favorite Book of 2019

A New York Times Best Children’s Book of 2019

A Time Best Children’s Book of 2019

A Today Show Best Kids’ Book of 2019

A Washington Post Best Children’s Book of 2019

A School Library Journal Best Middle Grade Book of 2019

A Publishers Weekly Best Book of 2019

A Kirkus Reviews Best Middle Grade Book of 2019

“As innovative as it is emotionally arresting.” —Entertainment Weekly

From National Book Award finalist and #1 New York Times bestselling author Jason Reynolds comes a novel told in ten blocks, showing all the different directions kids’ walks home can take.

Review of Sophie Washington: Treasure Beach by Tonya Duncan Ellis

 

Hey, y'all, there's a new Sophie Washington book out! And if you follow the blog at all, you know that these books are among my favorite contemporary reads for elementary/middle grade kids. Today you get a sneak peek inside with an excerpt and then get to read all of my thoughts. Let the author know your thoughts in the comments section. Check out the rest of the tour and best of luck in the giveaway!

Review of Tucked In by Corey Wainman

 

It's a flash back in time to the late 1970s and all of the crazy growing up things that happen. Read an excerpt and my thoughts on Tucked In by Corey Wainman. Follow the tour for even more and remember to let him know what you think. Best of luck in the giveaway!

Review of Sounds All Around: A Guide to Onomatopoeias Around the World by Dr. James Chapman

Did you know that in German, a pig doesn’t say oink, it says gruntz, and when you sneeze in Japanese it’s hakushon, not achoo? With vibrant comics and fun facts, Sounds All Around will teach you interesting and funny onomatopoeias from all over the world!

Review of A Bowl Full of Peace: A True Story by Caren Stelson, illustrated by Akira Kusaka

In this deeply moving nonfiction picture book, award-winning author Caren Stelson brings Sachiko Yasui's story of surviving the atomic bombing of Nagasaki and her message of peace to a young audience.

Sachiko's family home was about half a mile from where the atomic bomb fell on August 9, 1945. Her family experienced devastating loss. When they returned to the rubble where their home once stood, her father miraculously found their serving bowl fully intact. This delicate, green, leaf-shaped bowl—which once held their daily meals—now holds memories of the past and serves as a vessel of hope, peace, and new traditions for Sachiko and the surviving members of her family.

Book Links

Amazon * BN * Goodreads

(affiliate link included)

**My thoughts**

This may be a picture book, but it is definitely not a book for younger readers. This is more for your middle elementary and older children who are ready to hear the sobering tales from WWII. It is the tale of the bombing of Nagasaki and the horrific effects from that atomic bomb. Sachiko was only six years old when the bomb was dropped. It is miraculous that she survived, as most of those around her did not, whether being instantly killed or succumbing to residual disease some years later. It's a message about the horrors of nuclear weapons and the lesson that they should never be used again. But it also is a story that inspires hope, as it tells of the family heirloom that survived, the rituals that the family had before the bombing and the new ones of remembrance that they created after the bombing. And it speaks to having gratitude and humility. 

This is a true story. At the end of the story is the story behind the story, along with pictures of the real Sachiko and the real bowl. The author gives insight as to why she felt compelled to tell this story and also provides resources for further reading. It would be useful for telling part of the history of that time and serves as a discussion launching point.

Also of note are the beautiful illustrations that are soft, yet still demonstrate some of the harsh reality of the history of the war. I felt they were quite powerful.

I have long been fascinated by WWII and the many stories surrounding it. This is one that will stay with me.

Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a requested review copy via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Review of Super Silly Jokes for Kids by Vicki Whiting illustrated by Jeff Schinkel

Do you know how many tickles it takes to tickle an octopus? Tentacles! From the creative minds at Kid Scoop®, an award-winning and nationally syndicated activity page for children, comes this hysterical book chock full of jokes, riddles, and puns! Kids will love flipping through these pages and learning over 100 jokes they’ve never heard before and can’t wait to tell. Providing hours of endless laughter, this joke book is perfect for young animal and joke lovers alike!

Goodreads * Amazon * BN

(affiliate link included)

**My thoughts**

Kids love to tell riddles and jokes and this book is going to supply them with a giant fresh new batch to torture, I mean entertain, everyone with. This collection feels fresh and new to me, though you will find some classics in it as well. They're collected by general theme on the pages, so you can find the kind of joke you're looking for. The illustrations are bright and whimsical and the text is easy to read. I also like how they mixed things up a bit, like with a couple of pages, you have to match the riddle to its punchline. I got a total kick out of this book as an adult and think kids are going to love it, too.

Thank you to the publisher for fulfilling my review request via NetGalley.. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Thoughts on Zia (Island of the Blue Dolphins #2) by Scott O'Dell

 

A young Indian girl, caught between the traditional world of her mother and the present world of the mission, is helped by her Aunt Karana, whose story was told in Island of the Blue Dolphins.

Goodreads * Amazon * BN

(affiliate link included)

**My thoughts**

Island of the Blue Dolphins was one of my favorite books when I was a child. I have reread it dozens of times. It wasn't until adulthood that I heard there was a sequel. I eventually grabbed a copy via my school's Scholastic Book Fair and kept putting off reading it. Until now.

Perhaps I should have left well enough alone, because I was really disappointed. 

I picked it up to read the same night I had just reread Island. Perhaps that was a mistake. It was jarring to suddenly have a lot of action and characters and conversation. I lost that sense of peace, calm, and connection.

And even though I know Island is a fictional account, it was hard for me to wrap my head around Karana having a niece and nephew so eager to find her. (So I figured this takes place within the year before they bring Karana back from the island.)

It's an interesting piece of historical fiction that shows some of the mistreatment of Indians by whites and the problems of these Missions that were popping up to convert them to Christianity. But I am not sure how historically accurate this story is.

I may have liked the story better if it was not trying to be connected to Island. I just didn't feel that at all. But it could have been an entertaining enough adventure on its own. And I probably would have enjoyed it more as a child than I did as an adult. I know I'll revisit Island, but I'm not likely to return to Zia.

I gave it 2.5 stars after going back and forth for a while.

Review of Jaxon and the Naughty Secret Monster by Madeline M. Pratchler

Welcome to the book review tour for Jaxon and the Naughty Secret Monster by Madeline M. Pratchler! Today I'm sharing with you an excerpt and my thoughts on this middle grade read. Be sure to follow the tour for even more. Best of luck entering the giveaway!

Jaxon's enthusiasm for the simplest things bubbles out of him, and ideas continually pop out of his very large brain. His delight in helping plant the garden with his family creates a magical learning opportunity, and he's well on his way to being as smart as his dad. But sometimes his zest needs to be clamped down, and his blurting embarrasses others.

When Dad shares a surprise for Mom, Jaxon discovers the secret monster: a naughty guy who lives inside him, waiting to blab as soon as his mouth opens. Jaxon swallows him down and tells him to be quiet inside his head, but will that monster listen? And what about the next time when Jaxon plots a prank on the ice cream man?

Read an excerpt:

Once our groceries were on the belt, I heard a whiny man’s voice. I was shocked because a whiny voice usually sounded like mine, not a deep voice like Dad’s. I turned around curiously, and here was a man with gray hair, holding a plastic bag with just one small thing in it. He was doing big breaths.

“Only one till open, hmmmm, only one till open,” he complained.

I stared at him in disbelief. I had never heard a grown-up act whiny before! I saw him look back and forth, then sigh loudly again.

“HMMMM, only one till open.”

A lady was between us and him. She had a basket slung over her arm with juice, bread, and some fruit inside. She said kindly to him, “You can go ahead of me if you like.”

“Hey, thanks,” he happily stepped right behind us. Now I could see inside his plastic bag. He had one thing only – a green pepper. I hated green peppers. He came into the store for just a green pepper? Seriously? Was he gonna eat that thing?

“Hmmm, just one till open,” he whined again and this time Mom turned around.

“Did you wish to go ahead of us?”

“Oh, thanks, yes!” He squeezed ahead of us and handed his pepper to the cashier who was just about to beep our order.

I felt hot rushing into my head and my mouth came all the way open. Before I could even think, the monster inside of me jumped out of my mouth, “That’s no fair! How come he gets his way when he’s being a whiny pants? You always say we shouldn’t whine, and –“ Mom poked me sharply and her face was super red but I couldn’t stop. “Then you actually totally listened to him!”

The man heard and looked at me. “Just super busy today, thanks.” He pulled out some money to pay.

“But it’s a pepper!” The monster in me refused to be swallowed and quiet, and it just didn’t make any sense! “If you’re so busy, you really needed a pepper? They are gross anyway!”

“Jaxon, HUSH!” Mom’s eyebrows were almost up to her hair.

Luke’s face looked amused…and horrified. “Peppers look like lizards when they’re cut up on pizza,” he said quietly, “I wouldn’t drive to the grocery store on a busy day just to buy a pepper either.”

Buy Links

Amazon * BN

(affiliate link included) 

The book is free during the tour.

**My thoughts**

This cute chapter book is told from Jaxon's point of view as he contemplates life and the world around him. Some of his vocabulary mix-ups are a little reminiscent of Ramona. He is very curious and very outspoken, much like other young men I have known at that age.

It is a snapshot into his life in the country one particular summer that actually took me back to my own childhood planting the gardens with my own parents. Readers may develop curiosity about starting one of their own! 

I will say it did feel more like reading a memoir than the adventures of a child, but it was still cute.

Thank you to the author, publisher, and Goddess Fish for fulfilling my review request. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

As a young child, Madeline Pratchler was always telling stories, and as she grew she wrote stories and poetry, falling more and more in love with words, ideas, learning, reading and music. She is an accomplished musician on the organ and piano, and not so accomplished on the violin (yet!). A prairie girl through and through, she delights in big skies, clouds, horizons, fruit trees, and her garden. She lives in Humboldt, Saskatchewan, with her husband and their four children. Jaxon and the Naughty Secret Monster is her first book.

CONNECT WITH Madeline M. Pratchler

WEBSITE madelinepratchlerauthor.com

FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100069545053024

Madeline M. Pratchler will be awarding a $10 Amazon or Barnes and Noble GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Thoughts on Island of the Blue Dolphins by Scott O'Dell

 

Far off the coast of California looms a harsh rock known as the island of San Nicholas. Dolphins flash in the blue waters around it, sea otter play in the vast kep beds, and sea elephants loll on the stony beaches.

Here, in the early 1800s, according to history, an Indian girl spent eighteen years alone, and this beautifully written novel is her story. It is a romantic adventure filled with drama and heartache, for not only was mere subsistence on so desolate a spot a near miracle, but Karana had to contend with the ferocious pack of wild dogs that had killed her younger brother, constantly guard against the Aleutian sea otter hunters, and maintain a precarious food supply.

More than this, it is an adventure of the spirit that will haunt the reader long after the book has been put down. Karana's quiet courage, her Indian self-reliance and acceptance of fate, transform what to many would have been a devastating ordeal into an uplifting experience. From loneliness and terror come strength and serenity in this Newbery Medal-winning classic.

In celebration of the book's 50th anniversary, this edition has an introduction by Lois Lowry, Newbery Medal-winning author of The Giver and Number the Stars.

Book Links

Goodreads * Amazon * BN * Kobo * Google Play * Target * Indigo

(affiliate link included)

**My thoughts**

I've been revisiting a lot of my childhood favorites lately. Island of the Blue Dolphins start popping up in various places, so I curled up with it one recent evening to reread for the umpteenth time since I was 9 (though probably not for at least a decade).

For me, the magic is still there. Karana has a strength and determination in her spirit that I still admire. I found myself questioning now, as I did back then, whether I would make it all alone on an island for 18 years. Probably not. But we know that at least one woman did.

The book was inspired by a woman who lived alone on an island for 18 years. But especially as an adult, I understand that this book is pure fiction. No one really knows the truth about how the woman came to be alone on the island, nor how she actually survived all of those years, though the author did extensive research into the people of the area and the time. I especially appreciated the extra insights given in the 50th anniversary edition of the book, including the introduction written by beloved author Lois Lowry.

As an adult, I appreciate the story of survival and how Karana develops a strong love for nature and the world around her. I think a focus on these themes - and that women are capable of doing the same things men can - is what is most important and outweighs trying to teach this as a nonfiction historical text, which it is not. But it is such a good story.

I understand that Scott O'Dell later wrote a sequel. I have no idea what that could possibly be, but it is in my TBR pile.  

Review of A Good Kind of Trouble by Lisa Moore Ramee

 

From debut author Lisa Moore Ramée comes this funny and big-hearted debut middle grade novel about friendship, family, and standing up for what’s right, perfect for fans of Angie Thomas’s The Hate U Give and the novels of Renée Watson and Jason Reynolds.

Twelve-year-old Shayla is allergic to trouble. All she wants to do is to follow the rules. (Oh, and she’d also like to make it through seventh grade with her best friendships intact, learn to run track, and have a cute boy see past her giant forehead.)

But in junior high, it’s like all the rules have changed. Now she’s suddenly questioning who her best friends are and some people at school are saying she’s not black enough. Wait, what?

Shay’s sister, Hana, is involved in Black Lives Matter, but Shay doesn't think that's for her. After experiencing a powerful protest, though, Shay decides some rules are worth breaking. She starts wearing an armband to school in support of the Black Lives movement. Soon everyone is taking sides. And she is given an ultimatum.

Shay is scared to do the wrong thing (and even more scared to do the right thing), but if she doesn't face her fear, she'll be forever tripping over the next hurdle. Now that’s trouble, for real.

Book Links

Goodreads * Amazon * BN * Kobo * iBooks * Google Play * Indigo 

**My thoughts**

I remember prior to this book's release, there was a lot of hype surrounding it, especially among the various book tour companies I blog for. But there was never a review option, and I knew I wanted to read it. So I put it on my TBR.

I finally read it for the first time about a year ago and was blown away. There's so much going on here that I think a lot of readers could relate to it.

The story tackles the embarrassment of puberty, bullying, first real crushes, parental rules, and the complicated dynamics of middle school friendships. I totally flashed back to my middle school days.

And then the book goes a little deeper into things like racial identity. Shayla is Black, Isabella is Puerto Rican, and Julia is Asian. They have always called themselves the United Nations, but are now more aware of some of their cultural differences. Naturally, some of the kids are starting to gravitate toward those with the same backgrounds at this age as they are developing more of a cultural identity. (Example: It's nice to be around people who understand that Chinese, Japanese, and Korean are not all the same.) But then there is also that desire to stay with your friends whom you love for being who they are. I appreciated them getting into the stereotypes and trying to dispel them while also embracing themselves for who they are and eventually seeking unification again. (Example: Not all Latinx people are from Mexico.)

Shayla also describes a lot of the problems that we are still facing in schools with some teachers being tone deaf to diversity and being so quick to stereotype or assume the worst of a student. [I keep thinking of Bernard. I love Bernard. I've taught many students like Bernard.] And she does highlight those teachers who are setting a good example. Plus there's some commentary of how teachers need to diversify what they're teaching and exposing kids to, because there's more out there than the dead white man's books. (I totally agree.)

And then there is the trial of an officer who shot and killed an unarmed Black man who was walking away from her. This is something we've been seeing quite often in the news, making this situation quite relevant. The book masterfully explains what Black Lives Matter actually means and how you can actively support the cause, even if you are not at a protest blocking traffic, for example. 

The important lessons Shayla learns are how to find her inner strengths, to be a good friend, a good leader, and how to find the good kind of trouble to really make a difference.

I think a lot of kids will find recognition in this story. I think reading it can lead to a lot of reflection and great conversation, whether at home or at school. And I think teachers could learn a lot about themselves by seeing that middle school world through a student's eyes.

I would love to catch up with Shayla again. But at the very least, I am adding author Lisa Moore Ramee to my perpetual reading list. Great debut book. 

Review of Isaiah Dunn Is My Hero by Kelly J. Baptist

 

A coming-of-age tale about a boy who discovers a love of poetry after finding his late father's journal. Adapted from a story that first appeared in Flying Lessons & Other Stories and perfect for fans of The Parker Inheritance by Varian Johnson.

Isaiah is now the big man of the house. But it's a lot harder than his dad made it look. His little sister, Charlie, asks too many questions, and Mama's gone totally silent.

Good thing Isaiah can count on his best friend, Sneaky, who always has a scheme for getting around the rules. Plus, his classmate Angel has a few good ideas of her own--once she stops hassling Isaiah.

And when things get really tough, there's Daddy's journal, filled with stories about the amazing Isaiah Dunn, a superhero who gets his powers from beans and rice. Isaiah wishes his dad's tales were real. He could use those powers right about now!

Kelly J. Baptist's debut novel explores the indomitable spirit of a ten-year-old boy and the superhero strength it takes to grow up.

Book Links

Amazon * BN * IndieBound * Goodreads

(affiliate link included)

**My thoughts**

Isaiah Dunn is 10, almost 11. He has a magical way with words, inherited from his father. But he has lost his words since his father unexpectedly passed away at Thanksgiving. (This is something I strongly relate to, even as an adult.)

As he is struggling with all of this, his mother is struggling to cope, losing her job, drinking a lot, and rendering them essentially homeless. (And this is a wake-up call to how easily it could happen to anyone.)

Then he's trying to deal with kids at school, in the neighborhoods, while also wanting to take care of his family. It's a lot for anyone to deal with, let alone someone his young age.

Through trial and error, unexpected support, and his father's short stories about Isaiah Dunn, Superhero, Isaiah manages to find strength and ingenuity that he didn't know he had and rises above to forge a new and better path. He's so inspirational, even to this fully grown adult. How many of us have been facing difficult trials in our own lives? And think about how many other children are going through one or more of these situations, or something similar, in their own lives? It really gives you something to think about in addition to pulling at your emotions.

Isaiah is a great kid and this is a great book. I look forward to his continued adventures.

I received a requested review copy via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Click on a title to read my review of the  Isaiah Dunn series by Kelly J. Baptist:

Isaiah Dunn Is My Hero

Isaiah Dunn Saves the Day

Review of Mansa's Little Reminders

  

Mansa’s little Reminders is a book long overdue that highlights the life of an inner-city kid with big dreams but no direction, a strong and loving family with few resources. Mansa’s little Reminders introduces the fundamental strategies that can help bridge the financial literacy gap between the “haves” and the “have nots” in a way that is fun, relatable, and needed. Mansa’s little Reminders is the first of many fun-filled adventures of a young and curious boy named Mark and his wise furry companion, Mansa. 

Our journey begins on an unusually bright morning, with the sunshine piercing through Mark’s window, blinding him into reality. As he prepared himself for the hot summer day, he noticed a squirrel perched outside of his window. Mark did not know that Mansa had been watching him for a long time. You see, Mansa knew that Mark had the potential to change the path of his life, and he was going to do everything he could to give him the tools and encouragement needed to do so. Will Mansa be successful at helping to change the trajectory of Mark's life?

Goodreads

On Amazon

Kindle * Paperback

(affiliate links included)

**My thoughts**

Mark loves to daydream and doesn't yet understand much about money. Between his family and a little squirrel, he learns a lot.

His mother really does bring in a real world perspective of being frugal when you don't have a lot of money. Especially in our current climate, this is a reality that a lot of families are facing. She also works hard at teaching him about making a business plan with the lemonade stand he wants to start. Other family members end up contributing to his new store of knowledge. And he also reflects on some past conversations with people in his life. Plus there is a little squirrel named Mansa who drops a few nuggets (or should I say, acorns) of wisdom.

The book is definitely written with the inner city kid in mind and seems to reflect that culture. I admit that I cringed a little with a couple of passing moments, most notably his cousin riding in the car with no seat belt. But overall, I really liked the lessons being taught and the different way of doing so. We need more books like this for kids.

I received a requested review copy from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

About the authors:

A.D. Williams learned early on how powerful representation is in books. Ensuring that kids can see and feel success through the lens of characters that look and face many of the same challenges they do. When I was growing up no one talked about investing, wealth, business plans or how to acquire real wealth, said A.D. His underlying motivation is that this book will ignite discussions around finances in households across the world and be a seed that blossoms until wealth equity for our children. In addition to his writing, A.D. is a children hospital administrator, private investor, and entrepreneur.

Kendal Fordham grew up in a home brimming with financial literacy. Her father tried eagerly to engage all his children in economics, financial planning, and investing as children. Out of the three children, Kendal found it fascinating. Straight out of college, Kendal studied hard and became a fully licensed Financial Professional. A year later as a Dave Ramsey endorsed financial professional, she started her own business as a financial and investment advisor. It didn't take long for her to realize the value in her skillset, but after becoming a mother, Kendal saw how crucial it was to plant the seed of this knowledge into our youth. Kendal is the mother to 2 young children, a landlord, a multi business owner, a mentor, and now, an author.

Review of Inside a Bald Eagle's Nest: A Photographic Journey through the American Bald Eagle Nesting Season by Teena Ruark Gorrow and Craig A. Koppie

Take a photographic journey of American Bald Eagles during nesting season. Through 160 breathtaking images captured in eagles' natural habitats, this factual account offers a rare glimpse into the behaviors and activities of America's national symbol as it prepares a nest, mates, lays eggs, and raises its young. Travel with adult eagles as they gather nest materials, forage for prey, and ward off intruders into their territory. Inside the nest, observe how eaglets grow from hatchlings into fledglings, and experience first flight. Included are tips for observing eagles and a glossary of terms. This is a perfect book for eagle enthusiasts and eagle nest cam viewers, nature and wildlife lovers, bird watchers, conservationists, scientists, teachers, children, and photographers. The one-of-a-kind photographs and comprehensive descriptions make this a must-have treasure to be enjoyed by all ages. It is sure to become the go-to reference on bald eagles.

Goodreads * Amazon * BN

(affiliate link included)

**My thoughts**

The bald eagle is one of the most majestic creatures found here in the United States. It's no wonder that we have it as one of our national symbols. They are rare, and so exciting when you get to see one! This book provides an insider's look at their life, in a way that we are most likely never going to be able to witness in person.

Breathtaking pictures capture all aspects of the bald eagle's life, from feeding to nesting to flight. Other pictures demonstrate how well they can blend in to the world around them. One of my favorites is a close-up of the profile of an adult male bald eagle and a frontal view in the glossary. I'm also intrigued by a series showing how the parent feeds the eaglets fish. And the little babies are absolutely adorable!

You can tell that Tessa has spent considerable time researching and observing the bald eagles during their nesting season. She is able to interpret the actions and interactions that she skillfully captures in her photography. Their lives are actually much more intricate and involved than we realize. For example, the way in which the male and female communicate with each other is almost reminiscent of how humans interact with each other when in love. It's also fun to read about how young eagles learn about the world around them, much in the same fashion as human babies. 

Younger children will be in awe of the pictures and may sit through explanations of what is going on, even though this is a long book. Older children will soak up the information. It's a great resource for a school project, or simply as a coffee table book.

Thank you to Netgalley for a requested review copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.