Raven Saga, Vol. 1 by Chihiro Howe

Today's read dives into the fairy tale direction, and I'm, actually, really looking forward to it. It seems like an eternity, since I last had my hands on some sort of fairy tale retelling, and I'm hoping that this one does a nice job with bringing tons of original aspects, while hitting enough familiarity to make a reader smile. It doesn't hit the shelves until January, so I'm hitting this one early.

Ready to dive into the fantasy realm and see what this book holds?

RAVEN SAGA, VOL. 1

by Chihiro Howe

WEBTOON Unscrolled

YA Adventure /   

Graphic Novel

304 pages

COMING...

JANUARY 6th!!!

Perfect for fans of fairy tales and Studio Ghibli, this gorgeous fantasy graphic novel adapted from the hit WEBTOON comic tells the story of a girl on an epic quest to rescue her grandmother in a world populated by fairy tale characters.

Wen lives in a land of fairy tales and has never seen the world outside of her home. The house where she and her grandmother, Clarimonde, reside is protected and secluded by a magical barrier. Wen dreams of exploring the world and seeing the ocean one day, yet her grandmother insists that she stay inside their little bubble where the seasons never change.

When a peculiar boy with a band of ravens begins capturing magic users across the kingdom, she must uncover the secrets held within the woods before the world is robbed of its happily ever after.

One day, a mysterious prince passes out just outside the barrier and Wen crosses over to help him. In the confusion outside the protective circle, the boy and his flock of ravens descend and abduct Wen’s grandmother. Wen decides to travel with her newfound friend, Prince Corliss, and his trusty sidekick Theo the swallow, on a quest to save Clarimonde.

On her journey, Wen discovers that the outside world isn’t as magical as she once thought, and danger lurks around every corner. But with the help of her friends, she will do her best to unravel the mystery of the boy with the ravens, and more importantly, the mystery of her own past.

This volume collects episodes 1 to 17 of the enchanting WEBTOON comic Raven Saga.

GOODREADS      /      PUBLISHER

MY TIDBITS

With the atmosphere of pure, simple fun, these pages hint at familiar tales while weaving a completely new story of its own.

Wen has lived with her grandmother as long as she can remember on the small piece of land in a clearing in the forest. She enjoys her life and gets along with the animals very well, and Grandma makes sure to bring her gifts and lots of books when venturing into town. There's only one thing Wen isn't totally happy with; their land is spelled and protected, meaning she's not allowed to step beyond the rock border. Although she dreams of one day seeing the world beyond, she also knows her grandmother only has her best interests at heart. When an odd light zooms in from the outside, it beckons to Wen in a way she can't ignore, and before she knows it, she's beyond the border and into the forest. Here, she discovers an injured prince with a flower insignia on his ring. While her grandmother is very upset, the old woman reveals that she's been waiting for a prophesied flower to appear, and this might be exactly it. Just as her grandmother is about to reveal the truth about Wen's past, a boy with crows attacks and steals the grandmother away. But before she completely disappears, she's able to tell Wen to find a certain individual and makes the prince promise to protect Wen until this task is complete. But that's going to be easier said than done.

Wen is everything a fairy tale heroine should be: innocent, friendly, and very kind. Her isolation has left her with a naive purity, which makes her enjoyable to follow and root for, especially since she's not completely stupid. She might have a lot to learn, but she's quick to realize mistakes and knows when to stand her ground. It will be fun to see what happens to her in this series, since there is quite a bit of room for character growth. With the prince, who is facing an odd curse, and other characters, such as the Pied Piper and Jack, the one who defeated the giant at the top of the bean stalk, there are all sorts of surprises. Not everyone is kind, and many characters are even gray. 

The graphics carry a hint of light, bubbliness. Still, the needed tension and emotions come across clearly to keep the tale from growing too sweet or simple. The text slides right along to keep everything flowing. It's a nice balance between the two and keeps boredom away. While there are moments of tension and hints of darker elements, this story holds gentle humor and innocence close to ensure a light fun the entire way through. And this fits very well to the characters and plot.

I'm really looking foward to seeing where this one goes next because Wen has quite the adventure before her.

Happy Book Birthday, Leaf Town Forever by Kathleen Rooney and Beth Rooney!

 

It's happy book birthday time! Today's read is perfect for the Fall weather and the leaves falling from the trees. We've had a very odd season, and while leaves have finally begun to fall...somewhat...it doesn't look like Autumn here, yet. Honestly, I have to mow the grass this week again, and I'm always done with that mid-September. But those leaves can't hang on the trees forever, and the cooler temperatures have to be arriving at some point. So, I'm going to hope that this read guides me into colored leaf dreaming and see what it holds.

LEAF TOWN FOREVER

by Kathleen Rooney and

Beth Rooney

Illustrated by Betsy Bowen

University of Minnesota Press

Picture Book

32 pages

ages 4 to 8

Leaf Town suddenly springs up. One day the clearing outside the school is empty, and the next it’s a bustling town complete with a hotel, shop, and mayor. Children gather and find treasures everywhere: feathers, acorns, lost rings, an old medal, and plenty of leaves and pine needles. They even uncover a silver skeleton key in the muddy banks of a nearby creek and proclaim it the heart of Leaf Town. As the town grows, it attracts the attention of the kids up the street, and a colossal fight threatens to destroy everything that was built. But the heart of Leaf Town is saved, and the kids rally to rebuild their city together, expanding to welcome the neighboring kids as well as all sorts of birds and animals. They hang a sign, Leaf Town Forever, and pass the key to the next generation of children who will look after their beloved town.

Based on a true story, Leaf Town Forever is the gentle tale of a town created by children with vivid imaginations. The timeless and universal saga, written in haiku, reminds both kids and adults that some dreams are worth protecting. Unfurling over the cycle of seasons, this is the story of an enchanting place full of tenacity and hope, creativity and fun—a connection to the natural world within reach for us all if we unite to make and maintain it.

GOODREADS    /     AMAZON

MY TIDBITS

Playful hours outside let imagination take flight in this inspiring read about a town of leaves.

This is the story of a bunch of kids, who decided to use all the leaves on the ground to form a town. They do this by clearing off smaller circles and piling the leaves along the edges to create 'buildings' or spaces. The kids claim their space and make stores, libraries, or anything else a town would hold. They even head out to collect things to decorate their spaces. The town grows and the kids are having a great time until the leaves are blown away. But this isn't the end of the game by any means.

Everything about these pages celebrates Autumn and children playing outside together. The hues in the illustrations lean toward the browns and oranges to keep the atmosphere in the right season the entire way through. The reader follows the kids as they form their buildings and hunt for decoration, and it inspires kids to head outside and try this on their own. Even when the leaves blow away, there isn't much time spent on the disappointment. Rather, the kids go with the flow. It reminds of neighborhood kids meeting after school or on weekend...or even of recess outside. It works well as an idea for a project as well.

The tale flows nicely and draws in as the text fits well to the intended age group. This makes for a smooth read-aloud for group settings or for cozier sessions at home. 

And here they are...

Kathleen Rooney is a founding editor of Rose Metal Press, a nonprofit publisher of literary work in hybrid genres, and a founding member of Poems While You Wait. She is author of five novels, including Lillian Boxfish Takes a Walk and Cher Ami and Major Whittlesey, as well as the poetry collection Where Are the Snows. She lives in Chicago and teaches at DePaul University.

Beth Rooney is a visual journalist based in Oak Park, Illinois. A writer and photographer, she is drawn to stories that explore our place in the world and show how individual circumstances reflect larger truths. 

Betsy Bowen is author and illustrator of many children's books, including Pocket of Prairie and The Lost Forest, both published by the University of Minnesota Press. She lives in Grand Marais, Minnesota.

Happy Book Birthday, Coach by Jason Reynolds!

It's time to celebrate another book birthday! Today's read is the fifth in a series, and I've read a couple of the other books before, but not the entire series. These can be read well as individual reads, since each book centers around a different character. However, there are mentions of other events, so they do hang together enough to read as a series as well. If I remember right. Truthfully, it's been a bit about six years since I read one

COACH

About Time...

Track #5

by Jason Reynolds

Caitlyn Dlouhy Books

Middle Grade Sports Fiction

256 pages

In this companion to Jason Reynolds’s award-winning and New York Times bestselling Track series, meet Coach as a boy striving to come into his own as a track star while facing upheaval at home.

Before Coach was the man who gave caring yet firm-handed guidance to Ghost, Lu, Patina, and Sunny on the Defenders track team, he was little Otie Brody, who was obsessed with Mr. 9.99 (a.k.a. Carl Lewis) and Marty McFly from Back to the Future. Like Mr. 9.99—and his own dad—Otie is a sprinter. Sprint free or die is practically his motto.

Then his dad, who is always away on business trips, comes home with a pair of Jordans. JORDANS. Fine as fine can be. Otie puts them on and feels like he can leap to the moon…maybe even leap like Mr. 9.99 when he won the Olympic gold medal in the long jump. But one morning he wakes up to find his brand-new secret weapon kicks are missing—right off his feet! And Otie just might have a fuzzy memory of his dad easing them off as Otie was sleeping, but that can’t be right, can it?

Unless all the reasons for his dad’s “gone’s” are very different from what he’s been told… Because now, not only are the Jordans missing, but so is his father.

GOODREADS     /      PUBLISHER

MY TIDBITS

Otie's having a hard time. Not only is his father rarely at home thanks to his job, but one of the kids at school has just made fun of Otie during the lunch talent show and had the entire school laughing at him and his hair. Since Otie's father never seems to have enough time to take him to the barber shop, he decides to tackle the job himself and ends up bald. But that works, since he's on the track team and can claim he's trying to improve his running time by being more aerodynamic. After all, he's a great runner and has dreams of making the Junior Olympic team. When his father returns from the latest business trip with a pair of Air Jordon's in hand, Otie's over the moon. Unfortunately, his mother's fears that they might be stolen are dampening his fun with the amazing shoes. Plus, other oddities are beginning to make Otie wonder if his father got them through questionable means...or maybe, even his job isn't all that it seems. Add the pressures of track and school, and Otie's got a lot to maneuver.

Like the other books in the series, the author hits Otie and his life with natural finesse. Every moment comes across smoothly and lets the reader feel as if they're stepping right into the character's world. The problems Otie faces come across with familiarity and draw sympathy, and his reactions are very understandable...even when he makes mistakes. His family is supportive and loving, but they aren't perfect. Even his school life and friendships are packed with ups and downs. Some themes are a bit more difficult and are brought across with the rawness needed to make the sit. So, it's a well-rounded read with a lot to offer.

It's no problem to sink right into the scenes and enjoy following Otie, family, and friends. It was nice to see the series now shifting to the Coach of the team, and the backstory gives his character quite a bit more understanding and depth. It did take a minute to realize that, unlike the other books, this one jumps back to the late 1980's to visit the Coach in his early teenage years. A quick mention of this would have been helpful in the beginning. But that said, it's an enjoyable read which hits home and provokes thought. Plus, the sport aspect always adds a nice twist.

And here he is...

Jason Reynolds is a #1 New York Times bestselling author, recipient of the MacArthur Genius Grant, a Newbery Award Honoree, a Printz Award Honoree, a two-time National Book Award finalist, a 2024 MacArthur Fellow, a Kirkus Award winner, a UK Carnegie Medal winner, a two-time Walter Dean Myers Award winner, an NAACP Image Award Winner, an Odyssey Award Winner and two-time honoree, and the recipient of multiple Coretta Scott King honors, a Coretta Scott King Author Award, and the Margaret A. Edwards Award. He was also the 2020–2022 National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature. His many books include All American Boys (cowritten with Brendan Kiely); When I Was the Greatest; The Boy in the Black Suit; Stamped; As Brave as You; For Every One; the Track series (Ghost, Patina, Sunny, Lu, and Coach); Look Both Ways; Stuntboy, in the Meantime; Stuntboy, In-Between Time; Miles Morales Suspended; Ain’t Burned All the Bright (recipient of the Caldecott Honor) and My Name Is Jason. Mine Too. (both cowritten with Jason Griffin); Twenty-Four Seconds from Now...; and Long Way Down, which received a Newbery Honor, a Printz Honor, and a Coretta Scott King Honor. His debut picture book, There Was a Party for Langston, won a Caldecott Honor and a Coretta Scott King Illustrator Honor. He lives in Washington, DC. You can find his ramblings at JasonWritesBooks.com.

Why Are Dogs by Brittany Long Olsen

Any dog fans out there? We love our pup, and I'm sure many of you cuddle yours often, too. But today's read isn't only about how much dog lovers adore their pets. It's not about the cute illustrations, either. This book covers the history of dogs. I'm assuming it will take a look at the various breeds and how they became what they are today, but maybe, I'm wrong.

Let's open this one up and enjoy learning more about our favorite dogs!

WHY ARE DOGS

An Illustrated History of the Wonderful World of Dogs

by Brittany Long Olsen

Andrews McMeel Publishing

Middle Grade Nonfiction

128 pages

ages 9 to 11

COMING...

OCTOBER 28th!!!

Ever wonder why Bulldogs have such wrinkly faces, or why Dachshunds are so long? Discover the history of 55 different dog breeds in this doggone good nonfiction book for kids, complete with comic panels and illustrations!

Why do Corgis have such stubby legs? Why do Huskies have such thick fur? Why do Pomeranians have such loud barks for their tiny size?

For hundreds of years, humans have been breeding dogs and tailoring them to fit our specifications for everything, from hunting to keeping our laps warm. In this illustrated nonfiction book that combines comic panels, illustrations, diagrams, and text, readers will learn about the stories behind 55 of the most popular dog breeds around the world and why they look and act the way they do.

Some of the breeds and their histories covered in this book

Golden Retriever Labrador Standard Poodle German Shepherd Dachshund Beagle French Bulldog And more! With author Brittany Long Olsen's gorgeous and paws-itively adorable art, this guidebook has all the greatest facts and stories behind your favorite furry friends!

GOODREADS   /    PUBLISHER

MY TIDBITS

Dogs are discussed, explained, and celebrated in this interesting book, which explores the various breeds and more.

After beginning with a little general history on dogs and their importance to people through time, it's time to take a closer peek at 55 various dog breeds. The name of the breed is placed at the top of the page with an immediate question, which people often ask about the breed (for example, "Why do Boston Terriers have white necks?") This question isn't answered directly, but rather, acts as an attention grabber. Then, the origin of the breed is mentioned, shown on a small, global map, and a brief history of the breed is given. The pages, from there, are broken into various boxes with illustrations and information, which hit all sorts of know and less known facts about the breed. It's presented in a format, which reminds a bit of a graphic novel without really taking on that direction completely. 

Dog fans are sure to discover all sorts of interesting tidbits about their favorite breeds. While some basic facts about the breed's origin, standard behaviors, or special anatomic abilities won't surprise, other tidbits offer  unexpected insights. For example, we learn the origins of Scooby Doo or how a Chihuahua became a commercial star. There's also a section at the end of the breed, which points out related breeds similar to it. All of this information comes across in an interesting way, and while never humorous, still carries a light atmosphere to keep the book entertaining.  The illustrations help facts to remain understandable, while also hinting at a bit of playfulness to help the facts from growing too heavy. 

It's an enjoyable book for anyone, who enjoys learning more about dogs.

 

Pumpkin Mash by Happy Yak

It's time for a super-adorable, Halloween read for the youngest bookworms out there! At least, I'm hoping this one is super cute. It's supposed to be a game of mix and match, which I'm thinking will mean that the entire thing is in 2-3 layers, which can be mixed to form different pumpkins???????? If that's the case, I'm ready to see what this one holds.

Oh, and I had to smile when I saw the huge description for the book below because I'm betting there will only be a few words at most in these pages, where the blurb reads like a mini-story in itself. 

Anyway, it's time for some fun! I hope.

PUMPKIN MASH

Mix and Match

by Happy Yak

Illustrated by Spencer Wilson

Board Book

24 pages

ages 0 to 3

Have silly scrambled fun with these mix-and-match pumpkins that all have crazy, colourful personalities. Over 144 combinations to keep little ones entertained for hours.

In this wacky split-page board book, meet...
A ghost pumpkin! Playing spooky tricks.
A mermaid pumpkin! Splashing through the waves.
An alien pumpkin! Aboard a UFO.

But also...
A ghost pumpkin! Aboard a UFO.
A mermaid pumpkin! Playing spooky tricks.
An alien pumpkin! Splashing through the waves.

Featuring a dozen loveable pumpkins, this playful pre-school offering is full of humour, with the final pumpkin having fun and glowing at a Halloween party.
 

• Exciting matching game for laughing and bonding with your little pumpkin
• Ideal Halloween gift for babies and toddlers
• A precious keepsake from Halloween that can be re-read year-round
• A crazy range of pumpkin characters to surprise and entertain

What’s the funniest pumpkin you can make? Read together at playtime or before bed! Or share with your friends and family to really crack them up laughing!
A delightfully silly book that makes an ideal Halloween gift for 1-4-year-olds, which will then be picked up from the shelf year-round for non-stop fun. Perfect for sitting down with your little one and laughing together at the crazy combinations you come up with. Fun, bright images to help keep kids entertained and distracted, and the interactive, split-page format makes this a quirky and exciting read for any time of day.

GOODREADS    /     AMAZON

MY TIDBITS

Halloween joy bubbles from every page as a fun array of pumpkins are introduced, one after the other.

This is a cute, bright, and enjoyable board book, which lets readers not only get to know the pumpkins inside but lets them get involved themselves. The book holds brightly illustrated, simple scenes with a different pumpkin on each page. From vampire to mermaid to UFO and more, these pumpkins are presented with style. It's enjoyable just to flip through and discover each one. But the extra fun comes thanks to the horizontally split pages, which allow readers to mix the top of each pumpkin with the bottom from another. This adds a nice touch of humor and creativity...and might have readers already inspired as to what their own pumpkin carving creativity might bring.

There is a short, playful phrase for each pumpkin, which introduces it with flair. This text is no problem for the age group to understand and lively enough to hold their interest. But then, the entire book grabs in with its pumpkin parade.

This is an adorable book to create Halloween smiles and adds a delightful activity along the way.

 

The Silent Cabin by Erik Stone

What is Halloween without suspense? So, we're going to slide in a high-stakes read today, which promises tons of edge-of-the-seat moments. This one is aimed at the young adult audience and takes place in a secluded cabin, which just happens to have all sorts of hidden pathways and hidey-holes thanks to its earlier use as a transfer point for alcohol transportation during the prohibition era. And that with swamps and a lake and other, setting goodness. But what adds an unique twist is that the main character is trapped there accidentally thanks to a group of foreign terrorists. I don't know how that will all work, but I'm game to find out.

So, let's settle down into the chair and see where this one goes.

THE SILENT CABIN

by Erik Stone

Page Publishing

YA Suspense

102 pages

On a warm summer day, Cami Novarro heads to her grandfather's cabin to help him clean up the last of the remaining miscellaneous items he needs to be removed prior to selling the place. Little did she know that several bad seeds were on their way to the property to use as an outpost for a terroristic plot they planned to carry out. The evildoers are unaware she's there as they murder her grandfather and proceed to lay out their plan. Cami is trapped in the labyrinth walls of the old, isolated home that once served as a transport point for liquor bootleggers. She must remain completely silent as she navigates the hidden tunnels of the cabin in an attempt to escape the foreigners who have invaded her family's vacation spot. Any noise and any wrong move could alert the dangerous men of her presence. With no cell phone service and one path for entry and exit, Cami has limited options for getting away. She must use her wits and instincts in order to survive the ordeal.

GOODREADS    /      AMAZON

MY TIDBITS

Every moment keeps the reader wondering if Cami will make it or lose her life to these dangerous men.

Cami's off to help her grandfather clean up the secluded cabin before putting it on the market. While it was once the entire family's favorite place to meet, she's the only grandchild left with the time and interest to miss the once lively property. As her grandfather and her fill the boxes, they notice a boat pull up to the peer. Her grandfather, of course, hurries out to see how he can help the stray visitors...only to be shot down. Cami immediately hides, and soon discovers that the foreign men are preparing for a terror attack. They'd have no qualms with killing her on sight, and there isn't an easy way to sneak away from the peninsula. Luckily, the house holds many secret passages thanks to bootleggers during the prohibition era, but the house is old, meaning that movement brings creaks and groans. 

This is a very short tale at just over 100 pages, and that's fantastic for a quick, tense read. Despite the short length, the tale still carries the depth to make it grabbing. The author sets the stage right away, offering the needed information about the house and background while Cami heads for the cabin. So, by the time she meets her grandfather, the foundation is set. It's a bit of an info-dump, but it compacts the information quickly, too. This also lets the reader get a decent handle on Cami and her attitudes to make her likeable enough to root for. It's not a ton of depth, but the suspense and quick-paced read carries this read, anyway. The rest is tension pure as Cami does her best to stay hidden and alive, while trying to figure out how in the world to escape from the house unnoticed.

There are several interesting aspects about this read. First, the setting is perfect for the tension, and it's no problem to picture the scenes and see the spaces Cami tries to use to escape. It's also clear how dangerous these men are, and that's where the first trigger comes in as she watches the murder of her grandfather. While there isn't much gore, there is this edge of brutality. Then, there's the foreign terrorists, who don't speak English. The author handles this by letting the reader know what they are saying, although Cami has no idea. The scenes slide back and forth between the terrorists' actions and Cami's perspective to keep the reader on top of every movement, but there is no distinction for when this happens (no breaks). So the two perspectives run into each other, which makes it unclear, at times, as to what Cami witnesses and what she doesn't. These blurred lines don't hurt the tension, though, and it's still easy to get lost in her panic and situation.

All in all, this is a tense read, which is easy to sink into and enjoy. 

 

Rock Star by Sandra Neil Wallace

We're heading back into the nonfiction realm today with a picture book, which steps back into history. Ursula Marvin was one of the earlier meteorite specialists, and was a pioneer in her area as a woman. I've never heard of her, but then, there are many, many people who've made a difference in the world that I haven't heard about before. 

Anyway, this is a picture book, which highlights Ursula's life, and I'm excited to see how it brings the information across.

ROCK STAR

How Ursula Marvin Mapped 

Moon Rocks and Meteoroites

by Sandra Neil Wallace

Illustrated by Nancy Carpenter

Paula Wiseman Books

Picture Book Nonfiction

48 pages

ages 4 to 8

COMING OCTOBER 14th!!!

Ursula Marvin was a rock star in the field of geology at a time when it was nearly impossible for women to pursue careers in science. Discover her story in this nonfiction picture book biography by Orbis Pictus award recipient Sandra Neil Wallace.

While attending college in the early 1940s, Ursula Marvin fell in love with geology, but when she asked her male professor about making the field her major, he tried to stop her, saying it would be a better use of her time to learn how to cook. Ursula studied geology anyway, eventually getting her master’s and PhD in the subject.

As a visionary and groundbreaking geologist, Ursula also had to be brave. She believed meteorites held the key to unlocking the origins of the solar system. To prove it, she travelled to Antarctica where she faced fierce winds, the coldest climate on Earth, and cracks in the ice that could have crushed her, but she knew the danger was worth the risk and scientific exploration wasn’t just for men. She proved her theory and that meteorites could be made up of pieces of planets or the moon.

Ursula Marvin charted new territory as a scientist and fought gender discrimination at every turn in her career. She broke barriers in science, helped create the field of planet geology, and discovered theories that are now foundational such as the evolution of and life on the moon—reshaping our understanding of the universe.

GOODREADS    /     PUBLISHER

MY TIDBITS

Perseverance and the drive to achieve dreams makes this an inspiring read, and not only for moon fans.

Ursula Marvin was born in the 1920's, and while she loved gazing at the stars, her father insisted she learn to be a normal woman of the time period. Ignoring his thoughts, she entered college and received a degree in geology. For years, she worked in the field and believed that meteors held hints to the universe around us. Finally, she had the chance to head to Antarctica on an expedition. But this was sprinkled with all sorts of difficulties, and she realized her ultimate goal might never be achieved.

I enjoy learning about all sorts of people, who shaped our world but are often forgotten. This book centers around a woman, Ursula Marvin, who's tenacity led to the discovery of meteorites, which then, helped other to understand more about the moon. These pages don't center on the discovery itself as much as they cover the difficulties she faced at the time. So, there's plenty of woman power going on here, but it's about so much more, too. It's interesting to learn about the struggles expeditions met when traveling to such a cold climate (age appropriate). It also shows that goals can be reached, no matter how long it takes. I found it interesting that she was 57 when the expedition took place.

The illustrations present each scene with enough details to give readers a good idea of the moments and are enjoyable. The text is straight-forward and describes Ursula's life in an interesting manner. There were several moments that it seemed to jump, suddenly, but it's paced well enough to hold interest while brining across the information. The end of the book offers a summary of Ursula's life as well as several other goodies, which can be used to learn more about her.

It's an enjoyable read and makes it easy for readers to learn more about her.

And here they are...

Sandra Neil Wallace writes about people who break barriers and change the world. She is the author of several award-winning books for children, including Between the Lines: How Ernie Barnes Went from the Football Field to the Art Gallery, illustrated by Bryan Collier, which received the Orbis Pictus Book Award and was an ALA Notable Book. A former ESPN reporter and the first woman to host an NHL broadcast, she is the recipient of the Outstanding Women of New Hampshire Award and creates change as cofounder of The Daily Good, a nonprofit bringing twenty thousand free, culturally diverse foods to college students each year through its Global Foods Pantries. Visit Sandra at SandraNeilWallace.com.

Nancy Carpenter is the acclaimed illustrator of Thomas Jefferson and the Mammoth Hunt, Queen Victoria’s Bathing Machine, Fannie in the Kitchen, and Loud Emily, among other books. Her works have garnered many honors, including two Christopher Awards and the Jane Addams Children’s Book Award. She lives in Brooklyn, New York. Visit her at NancyCarpenter.website.

Masks: A Graphic Novel by Margaret Rae

Today's read is perfect for October and the spooky season because it is about Halloween! It surrounds a group of monsters, who have been hiding since the monster hunters killed their parents. Then, they learn about Halloween and see it as an opportunity to head out into the world and be who they are. It's said to be a touching read, and I'm hoping it will hold humor and tension, too. 

But let's open this one up and see what this monster Halloween is all about.

MASKS

by Margaret Rae

Illustrated by Brain Nathanson

Beck Kubrick

Thomas Philipson

Andrews McMeel Publishing

Middle Grade Paranormal 

Graphic Novel

240 pages

ages 8 to 12

Poe, Rice, and Shelley are three monster kids who hide from the outside world. But when they learn about “Halloween,” they realize it’s their one night of the year where they can be their true selves—scales and all. This quirky, heartwarming (or should we say, heart-worm-ing?) graphic novel is perfect for fans of Nimona and Sheets.

Poe was only a little monster when the hunters came for her parents. If it weren’t for one of the hunters taking pity on her, she knows she’d have met the same fate, too.  
 
Ten years later, Poe lives with her two “siblings”—more monster kids in hiding—Rice and Shelley. Under her protective eye, Poe makes sure that the siblings have everything they need, but Rice and Shelley want more out of life than running away. So when their most recent home is slated to be demolished by a real estate group, the monster kids venture out to find their place, and end up getting whisked away to a Halloween party that changes their lives.
 
Debut creator Margaret Rae and Brian Nathanson (author of The Many Deaths of Barnaby James) are experts in the spooky, haunting craft. They’ve woven a story full of heart, humor, and hope—one that examines the masks in which we all live. With quirky, stunning illustrations by Beck Kubrick ("Sylvia Plath meets Peanuts") and colorist Tom Philipson, Masks is the quintessential graphic novel about accepting who you are, masks and all.
 
Perfect for fans of ND Stevenson’s Nimona, Brenna Thummler’s Sheets, with kid-friendly elements of The Witcher and a little bit of Peter Pan.

GOODREADS    /     AMAZON     /     PUBLISHER

MY TIDBITS

With a bit of monsterly fun, these pages take a look at not fitting in and finding friendships...and sometimes, family.

Monster hunters wiped out Poe's entire family ten years before, but thanks to a kind-hearted monster hunter, she escaped. Now, she lives with two other monsters, which she took in and protects. They survive by hiding and scavenging for what they need. So far, all's gone well, but the place they've been calling home is about to be destroyed. One of the monsters wants to head out and search for a rumored monster haven, but Poe isn't so sure since there's no real proof it exists. When she learns of Halloween, she decides to use the holiday as a chance not only for them to finally head out into the human world and have fun but to find a new home. But things never are as simple as they appear.

This is an enjoyable, straight-forward tale with characters to enjoy. Poe is kind but uncertain thanks to her past, and that is something readers will easily sympathize with. It's also no problem to understand the desire to search for the Haven, since the three are living isolated, in danger, and in uncertainty. Add the evil, monster hunters, and it's no problem to root for Poe and understand what difficulties she faces. The pacing is steady, while the atmosphere sits in a more serious tone as Poe and the others try to find their place in the world. I'd suggest it more for the lower end of the middle grade audience due to the simpler plot and a few unexplained background tidbits (for example: it's not clear why they didn't know about Halloween before).

The messaging is also straight-forward as it circles around the monsters' problems with the hunters and not being accepted by humans. Then, there's Poe's human friend, who is also bullied. Poe and her friends learn about friendship, finding family, and that kindness can be found no matter what the appearance or race.

The illustrations are well done and bring each moment across nicely. The text also fits the age group well enough. It's a quick read with much to enjoy.

And here they are...

Margaret Rae is a debut fiction writer and physician specializing in infectious diseases. She lives in Los Angeles, California, with husband Brian and daughter Fiona.

Since graduating from USC’s School of Cinematic Arts, Brian Nathanson has written screenplays for studios such as Disney and Warner Bros. After releasing The Many Deaths of Barnaby James through Dark Horse, Masks will be his second graphic novel.
 
Beck Kubrick is a UK-based writer and cartoonist. They like comedy-horror and thinking about the apocalypse. They are known for "dark humor and knowing wit." They have worked with Cartoon Network, Oni Press, MadCave Studios and more. They won Broken Frontier’s best one-shot 2023, and their upcoming work includes Dead Girls (Atheneum Books, 2026).

Happy Book Birthday, When I Feel Lonely by Britta Teckentrup!

It's time to shoutout another book birthday! YAY! 

This one is a picture book with poetic flair and should cover the theme of loneliness. I was taken in by the lovely artwork on the cover and hope that this carries throughout the read. As my readers know, I'm very careful about picture books, which carry distinct messages surrounding children's emotions, mindfulness, and other such issues. So, I'll tend to be very critical when I pick this type of read up. But this one is giving me lovely vibes.

Find a comfortable spot because it's time to see what these pages hold!

WHEN I FEEL LONELY

by Britta Teckentrup

Prestel Junior

Picture Book

40 pages

ages 4 to 8

With luminous, evocative illustrations and rhymed texts, this book gently explores the feeling of loneliness through the perspective of a young girl.

In a world where many children, and adults, are grappling with such intense emotions, When I Feel Lonely provides a calm, compassionate and understanding voice, helping young readers to recognize and name their feelings.

This newest book about emotions from a beloved author and illustrator is a powerful and timely exploration of childhood loneliness.

• It acknowledges that, while feeling alone is natural and something everyone experiences, it also conveys how unsettling and scary the sensation can be.

• In her characteristically sensitive style, Teckentrup explores the quiet moments when the world seems distant and we are left grappling with the heavy silence that surrounds us.
• The narrative doesn’t shy away from the intensity of these emotions, instead offering an honest portrayal of how loneliness can feel like an all-encompassing shadow.

The book reassures children that while loneliness can be sad and difficult, it is a part of life that everyone experiences. And best of all it offers a glimmer of hope, showing that even in the darkest moments, there is the possibility of light and connection ahead.

GOODREADS     /     AMAZON      /      PRESTEL

MY TIDBITS

With beauty and grace, these pages explore the heaviness of feeling lonely, while leading into hinting scenes of hope.

This is a gorgeously illustrated book with scenes, which pack emotion and depth. The dreary forest creates a meaningful setting for a child, who feels alone in life. Every corner echoes these sentiments, and yet, there's a wolf. The beautifully eerie wolf approaches and becomes a companion, and this dances along a double-meaning...at least, it hit me that way. One, the wolf acted as loneliness, a constant companion which was there but the child still felt alone. Or it might have been a leading sense of companionship to highlight that the child was never really alone, although it never realized it. Even at the end, the sense of loneliness and dreary atmosphere holds despite the nods at hope. It creates a meaningful read, which hits home.

The text is poetic and accompanies the mood to add a familiar tone, which readers/listeners can see examples in their own lives. The text captures and adds a dreamy touch. The impact of this, obviously, will depend on the child, but sensitive ones will enjoy it, and the older readers (adults) can enjoy every moment and bring it into their own lives as well. 

As with all books which hit upon these heavier emotions, it is wise for adults to read through it themselves first, especially when fragile listeners are involved. This book does carry a dark tone as it expresses the isolation, and the ending isn't clear happiness. Rather, the last pages hug irony and point to the stepping-stone to a way out. 

This book is very impactful and beautiful, and for the right reader, leaves a lasting and meaningful impression.

And here she is...

Born in Hamburg, Britta Teckentrup studied art and illustration at Central Saint Martin's College of Art and Design and the Royal College of Art in London. She is an author and illustrator of numerous books and has received many awards. She lives in Berlin with her Scottish husband and her son Vincent. Her books have been translated into several languages.

 

At Last She Stood by Erin Entrada Kelly

Today's read hit the shelves a month or so ago, and was one I had hoped to pick up earlier but had to be a little patient. But the pre-excitement is always the best excitement! This one heads in the biography direction, one I don't visit very often, and promises to be very interesting. It follows the life of a girl (later woman), who survives leprosy, joins guerrilla fighters, gains war awards, and heads into so much more. So, her life is basically a novel. I'm looking forward to seeing how this is done and hope it's as grabbing as this woman's life has been.

So, let's settle into that chair and take a peek!

Also, it's Monday, which means it's time for the weekly MMGM list. Middle grade literature fans and knowers get together to give their recommendations for the weeks or other thoughts on the middle grade realm. So, if you're looking for reads for this age group, head on over HERE and see what's what on that front!

AT LAST SHE STOOD

How Joey Guerrero Spied, Survived, And Fought For Freedom

by Erin Entrada Kelly

Greenwillow Books

Middle Grade Biography

208 pages

ages 8 to 12

World War II spy, Filipino guerrilla fighter, war hero, Medal of Freedom recipient, leprosy survivor, teacher, peacemaker . . . The legendary and inspiring life and work of Josefina “Joey” Guerrero is introduced to readers by two-time Newbery Medal winner, National Book Award finalist, and bestselling author Erin Entrada Kelly. For fans of Steve Sheinkin and Candace Fleming.

Joey Guerrero, a native of the Philippines, was diagnosed with leprosy (Hansen’s disease) as World War II unfolded in Europe and Asia. Soon after the Japanese occupied the Philippines, Joey—believing she would die soon—joined the guerrilla movement to complete covert missions in support of the Allies. Because of her condition, she was rarely searched by Japanese soldiers, which allowed her to courier secret messages, including an invaluable minefield map that she taped to her back. She was eventually awarded the US Presidential Medal of Freedom and admitted to the National Leprosarium in Carville, Louisiana, where she lived for nine years. When she was cured and released, she found it difficult to find work because of racial discrimination and her health history and was forced to pawn her Presidential Medal to make ends meet. Eventually, she shed her previous identity. When she died in 1996, her obituary identified her as a secretary from Manila. But Joey Guerrero was much more than that—she was a hero who changed the course of history.

Erin Entrada Kelly’s engaging nonfiction debut combines themes of the Philippines, World War II, the Asia-Pacific War, spy stories, Louisiana, immigration, disease and medicine, racism, perseverance, religious devotion, and hope. Illustrated with photographs, maps, and other illustrative material and featuring sidebars that clearly illuminate key moments in history, At Last She Stood is for readers and educators who love Candace Fleming, Deborah Heiligman, Christina Soontornvat, and Steve Sheinkin. Includes an author’s note, source notes, index, and other back matter.

GOODREADS       /        AMAZON

MY TIDBITS

While these pages tell the story of an inspiring woman, Joey Guerrero, the history richness goes even further to create a well-rounded, interesting dive into the Philippines during WWII.

To say that Joey Guerrero led an interesting life is an understatement. From horrid diseases to dangerous missions and so much more, she took on everything that came her way. While only the first pages concentrate on her childhood, the author has kept the middle grade reader in mind as they present Joey's life, even as an adult, in a grabbing, down-to-earth way. Certain events are described with an almost story-like atmosphere but quickly venture back into the nonfiction realm to keep facts close and clear. But then, this isn't only the biography of Joey. Instead, the background of other people, which influenced her life, also come in along the way to keep the pacing steady and make the difficulties of the time frame clear. There are also many subsections printed in information boxes, which describe related facts and events such as leprosy, WWII and more. 

Photos, related to the situations, as well as maps and more add substance and make the events hit with more potency and understanding. The reader comes out knowing much more about the role the Philippines played during the time period as well as many difficulties people faced. I didn't know much about the attacks by the Japanese on the Philippines, nor was I aware of the American involvement. This book fills that whole, while keeping it mostly interesting for the middle grade reader.

History fans are sure to enjoy this one, but it's also a nice fit for classrooms and groups, who want to learn more about these events and Joey's contributions. 

And here she is...

Erin Entrada Kelly is the author of the Newbery Medal–winning novels Hello, Universe and The First State of Being, which was also named a finalist for the National Book Award. She received a Newbery Honor for her acclaimed novel We Dream of Space. Erin Entrada Kelly grew up in Lake Charles, Louisiana, and now lives in Delaware. She teaches in the MFA in writing for children and young adults program at Hamline University. Her short fiction has been nominated for the Philippines Free Press Literary Award for Short Fiction and the Pushcart Prize. Before becoming a children’s author, Erin Entrada Kelly worked as a journalist and magazine editor and received numerous awards for community service journalism, feature writing, and editing from the Louisiana Press Association and the Associated Press.
Erin Entrada Kelly’s debut novel, Blackbird Fly, was a Kirkus Best Book of the Year, a School Library Journal Best Book of the Year, an ALSC Notable Book, and an Asian/Pacific American Award for Literature Honor Book. She is also the author of The Land of Forgotten Girls, winner of the Asian/Pacific American Award for Literature; You Go First, an Indie Next Pick; Lalani of the Distant Sea, an Indie Next Pick; Those Kids from Fawn Creek, named to numerous best-of-the-year lists; and five popular novels for younger readers, Maybe Maybe Marisol Rainey, Surely Surely Marisol Rainey, Only Only Marisol Rainey, Your Turn Marisol Rainey, and Felix Powell, Boy Dog, which she also illustrated. Erin Entrada Kelly’s acclaimed nonfiction debut, At Last She Stood, tells the sweeping story of Filipino World War II guerrilla fighter Josefina Guerrero.