The Doomsday Vault by Thomas Wheeler

Today's read is another science fiction novel. There are more than usual this year in the kidlit realm. While I've hit space and aliens and computers and more, this one heads into the realm of time travel. It hit the shelves already in January, so I'm a bit late to the game but all the more excited since I've had a chance to see this one around. 

After taking a look at the cover, I'm expecting excitement and some quirky adventure. Doesn't that look kind of like a vacuum cleaner hanging from the girl's shoulder? And the boy is screaming 18th century with that outfit. 

Let's find out how chaotic and fun this one might be!

THE DOOMSDAY VAULT

Everwhen School of Time Travel

by Thomas Wheeler

Simon & Schuster

Middle Grade Science Fiction

304 pages

ages 8 to 12

From the screenwriter of Academy Award­–nominated Puss in Boots and Puss in The Last Wish comes an inventive middle grade adventure about an interdimensional school for time travelers perfect for fans of the Spy School and Mr. Lemoncello’s Library series.

When Bertie Wells accidentally creates a black hole in his bedroom in the year 1878, it’s the very last thing he expects—except maybe the grown-up who steps out. Darla Marconi dresses and speaks like no one Bertie has met and comes with an Bertie is invited to attend the College of Space Machines, Multiverses, and Other Odd Sciences (COSMOS for short, because no one would go to a school called COSMMOOS).

He is skeptical to say the least but, not having anything better to do, Bertie agrees. His day only gets weirder from there as he’s transported to 2022 for his first semester of school. Thankfully, he’s not alone—144 years in the future, math whiz Zoe Fuentes just accepted the same invitation, and 550 years in the past, Amelia da Vinci (yes, that da Vinci) has also decided to attend.

The three team up and work together to survive the year, including weathering a time paradox, solving the case of a disappearing dean, and uncovering the truth behind a shady intergalactic secret society. At least time is on their side!

GOODREADS    /     AMAZON

MY TIDBITS

Time travel meets a private academy, where the entire campus is a constant flux through time.

Bertie is a nothing, something his father is more than happy to remind of as Bertie fails again and again at everything he does.  Except when he, accidentally, creates a small blackhole in his bedroom...which since it was an accident, means nothing, right? There's also genius Millie, the sister of Leonardo de Vinci, who everyone ignores because she's a girl. Lastly, there's Zoe, another genius, who creates living slime. Each comes from a different time, each one doesn't fit in, and each has been chosen to join the time travel academy. Luckily, they become friends because they are in for the adventure of a life time...and maybe, to save time itself.

If you're looking for fast-paced excitement, this book is it. With a school, where time periods change everywhere on campus, even getting to class promises to be a small adventure. Add that each student comes from a different country and time period, too, and it's quite the chaotic setting. The author uses this original and interesting background to launch all sorts of unexpected moments...and many are dangerous to keep tension high. It's an unique setting and keeps everything on its toes from beginning to end.

Being a time travel book, there are inconsistencies, which plague this genre due to obvious reasons. But this plot isn't necessarily about logic (obviously) and, actually, weaves in some historical tidbits as the heroes venture from one sticky situation to the next. It's nice to see how the students come in with different views thanks to the huge diversity of culture, time, and more. And yet, the school also puts emphasis on not leaving students behind because of these differences, which is a nice touch. Plus, it leaves plenty of room for everything else because tons of everything else is going on to build enough issues. There are messages surrounding friendship, loyalty, going beyond your comfort zone, and more such goodness to add a little depth to keep the characters interesting. And the characters are enjoyable enough to root for.

There's some mystery and some character arc, especially for Bertie as he needs to overcome the perception that he's not enough. In general, the entire read is like stumbling from one situation into the next. There is a main plot arc with secrets and a dangerous situation they need to solve, but it dims here and there as the other situations pop up. The author does a decent job at flipping between times (so interesting!), but it does almost get confusing at times. I think this is one read, where a visual version would work better to bring the scene changes across. But it's still a fun read with tons of excitement. 

It will be interesting to see what these characters will experience next because the doors to adventure are wide open.

And here he is...

Thomas Wheeler is a showrunner, screenwriter, producer, and the New York Times bestselling author of Cursed, with illustrations by Frank Miller. He has created TV series for Netflix, ABC, and NBC, as well as written numerous feature films, including Puss in Boots and Puss in Boots: The Last Wish, both of which received Academy Award nominations. He lives in Los Angeles.

The Trouble With Giraffes by Lisa Mantchev

Today's read is the 2nd in a series, and nope, I haven't read the first. But I'm pretty sure that won't be an issue, in this case. When I saw the tree house and a giraffe, I picked this one right up. There is something wonderful about giraffes, and they aren't starring in kidlit that often. Plus, I wonder what it would be like to sit in the tree house and, suddenly, have a giraffe's head pop up next to you. My husband just finished up a huge tree-platform/deck-thingy (12x13ft). So, tree houses are on my mind.

Anyway, let's see what this giraffe is up to.

THE TROUBLE WITH GIRAFFES

Pet Club #2

by Lisa Mantchev

Illustrated by Taeeun Yoo

Paula Wiseman Books

Picture Book

32 pages

ages 4 to 8

COMING SEPTEMBER 16th!!!

A girl and her pet giraffe are friends despite their difference in size in this tender picture book companion to the bestselling and acclaimed Strictly No Elephants.

A girl knows having a pet giraffe poses some difficulties, like finding a way to take walks together with legs very different in length. And her giraffe doesn’t fit into the clubhouse door for Pet Club. But the Pet Club members come together to find a way for him—and everyone—to be included. Because that’s what friends do.

Strictly No Elephants has been sold around the world and is heralded as a pitch-perfect book about inclusion. Now, readers can celebrate the importance of both inclusivity and accessibility in this new companion that is full of new friends to love.

GOODREADS    /    PUBLISHER

MY TIDBITS

A tiny bit of fantasy works wonders in this adorable read about friendship and spending time together.

A little girl loves spending time with her pet giraffe, but sometimes, it feels like she has so little in common with her animal friend. From food choices to playing in the mud, they often don't enjoy things completely together. But the know how to meet in the middle and that's fine. Until it's not enough. 

This giraffe and girl will make animals fans smile and dream of the possibility of having their own, unique pet. The book takes the girl and the giraffe as naturally as if it were a girl and her cat. The two get along marvelously, and while the giraffe is remains the pet, its understanding of the circumstances takes on human intelligence. In other words, it's hard not to wish that this giraffe  could be your pet, too. Everything is wholesome and fun until the girl wants to shield her giraffe from the rain and has a small accident, which leaves her in a leg cast. All of this is presented in a completely age appropriate manner, since the accident itself is never depicted. Just strongly lead up to it. After that, the giraffe has to slow down and take care that the girl can keep up with it. Then, the book flips this around, again, to show how give and take in friendship can work. It's inspiring and warming.

The illustrations are done with love and have a slightly lighter color direction (not overly bright and bold), which fits well to the tone of the tale. It's fun to flip through these and visit the tale without the text. The text flows very well, though, and keeps the story interesting the entire way through. This makes it an ideal read-aloud or even for more sure readers to tackle on their own.

Especially the ending draws smiles and even offers ideas, which might lead to some activities for readers to do as well...I'm thinking picnics with friends and more. It's a lovely story, which is interesting and holds quite a bit of goodness while embracing animals along the way.

And here they are...

Lisa Mantchev is the author of many picture books, including the internationally acclaimed Strictly No Elephants and The Trouble with Giraffes, both illustrated by Taeeun Yoo; Remarkables, illustrated by David Litchfield; and Someday, Narwhal, illustrated by Hyewon Yum. Lisa lives on the Olympic Peninsula of Washington State. Learn more at LisaMantchev.com.

Taeeun Yoo has twice received the prestigious New York Times Best Illustrated Children’s Book Award. She has illustrated many books, including Strictly No Elephants by Lisa Mantchev, which has been published in fourteen countries. The New York Times called it a “sunny, smart, tongue-in-cheek tale.” She is also the illustrator of Kitten and the Night Watchman by John Sullivan, which received five starred reviews and was named a best book of the year by many publications. Her other books include So Many Days and Only a Witch Can Fly, both by Alison McGhee, and Round by Joyce Sidman. Taeeun was also the recipient of the Ezra Jack Keats Award and the Society of Illustrators’ Founders Award. She lives in South Korea with her family.

 

Lion Dancers by Cai Tse

I'm always on the look-out for sport themed books, especially for the middle grade audience. There never seem to be enough of these. Today's read takes an original twist in this direction...I didn't realize that a lion dancer is really a sport, but that's what it's being sold as. And maybe, it is one. I'm not a Lion Dancer guru. Actually, that's one reason I was glad to get my hands on this. I'm hoping that, while the story spins around friendship and arguments, there will also be a little information dropped in along the way to teach what Lion Dancing is all about. Add that it's a graphic novel, and I'm looking forward to seeing how it goes.

So, let's learn something new! (Unless, you already know something about this area.)

(Note: This one is going on my possible favorite graphic novels list for 2025)

I almost forgot that it's Monday! That means there is tons of middle grade goodness over at the MMGM (Marvelous Middle Grade Monday) over HERE. Knowers and lovers of literature for this age group recommend all sorts of tales to dive into. So, if you're into middle grade literature, you're going to want to head over there and take a peek.

LION DANCERS

by Cai Tse

Simon & Schuster

Middle Grade Sports   /  Graphic Novel

299 pages

ages 8 to 12

Former best friends become bitter rivals when one returns to lion dancing after a long absence in this vibrant and heartfelt middle grade graphic novel perfect for fans of Haikyu!! and Fence.

Young Wei dreamed of being a legendary lion dancer just like his dad. With his best friend Hung performing as the tail and Wei controlling the head, he knew they could become the next generation of lion dance champions. But after his dad’s sudden passing, Wei abruptly quits lion dancing—and his friendship with Hung.

Years later, Wei is stuck…in life, in school, and on the bench at games. That is, until he crashes a junior lion dance practice and feels his long-sleeping passion wake up within him once more. The team is happy to have another member to carry on the tradition, especially as one as preternaturally talented as Wei. There’s just one person who doesn’t want him the self-proclaimed star, Hung.

As Wei and Hung fight to be considered the top lion dancer, both will have to learn how to face their mistakes head-on and remember what it really means to be part of a team.

GOODREADS    /     AMAZON    /    B&N

MY TIDBITS

Competition, finding friends, and dealing with past problems becomes interesting and grabbing in a read, which introduces the joy of (and facts surrounding) Lion Dancing.

Wei has been trying to find more friends at school and even joined the basketball team, but this leads to more problems than he had before. He always ends up alone on the bench and increasingly becomes the butt of the other players' jokes. When he notices a guy wearing a shirt from a lion dancing team on the street, he takes the risk of asking the stranger about it. After all, Wei's own father was a champion lion dancer, and Wei himself had been training for the sport when he was younger...before his father's death. Deciding to give, at least, another peek at the sport, he visits the team and wonders if he should get involved. But not only is he not sure he's ready to revisit something he did with his father years before, but his ex-partner and once best friend isn't thrilled to see him again. 

When I picked this up, it was more due to the lion dancing aspect than the friendship drama. This book ended up surprising in both categories. The author is a lion dancer, and her love for the sport comes across in every scene. The exciting aspects and fun of learning to do the moves comes across clearly, while the frustration, hard work, and exhaustion also keeps it more than grounded. It's a well-rounded look into the sport and is no problem to relate to, especially for those readers who have participated in physical activities and competitions themselves. Of course, readers learn about lion dancing and what it involves during the story, but the author adds facts and explanations behind the moves and such at the beginning of each chapter. These movements occur in the tale as well (very smoothly worked into the plot), which gives the readers 'aha' moments.

While all this goodness around the unique sport already make this an intriguing read, the human and social aspect works well, too. Wei tries to force himself to be something he isn't, which leaves him more lonely than before. Even when he enters the lion dancing realm, it isn't without difficulties. His ex-best friend's attitude is selfish, but as Wei's past and the ex-friend's family life comes to light, it becomes understandable...even when it's still, obviously, not okay. To make sure the story doesn't become too emotional, the problems between the two characters are kept more as a side-story as the Wei needs to rediscover the sport and relearn what it takes to succeed. Messages surrounding determination, working with others, and even dealing with past trauma are hit upon.

The graphics really bring each moment to life, which not only melds with the text to drive the tale forward with tension, emotion, and excitement, but also opens up the sport of lion dancing on a visual level...which is very important for this type of activity. 

It's an engaging read...even more than I thought it might be...and hard to put down. I wonder if there will be a second book because it'd be fun to see where Wei goes from here.

 

And here she is...

Cai Tse is a lion and dragon dancer with the Chinese Youth League of Australia (CYL). She represents her team and country in international lion dance competitions as the lion tail, taking home two first place wins since beginning her lion dance career in 2016. When she’s not training, she’s making comics and running with her dog. Cai is the author of the graphic novel Lion Dancers. Visit Cai online at TheSeventhLion.com or on Instagram @ArtofCai.

Engineering: How the Six Simple Machines Support the World by Carla Mooney

I'm always on the look out for nonfiction, especially topics which aren't often seen in the kidlit world. Today's read hits upon such a theme. Now, I never wanted to be an engineer. I did start with a major in biochemistry, and although that changed during college to something completely different, I still adore science. My husband is an engineer, My youngest son is currently studying engineering as a dual major, and my oldest son has been in the Army working in the field of Black Hawk mechanics for several years. (Although not engineering, that's definitely a machine).

So, lots of interest in machines and such in this household.  

That also means I'm really curious to see what the six simple machines are. I haven't shown this to my husband, yet, because if I asked him for fun what they were, he'd probably roll his eyes at a 'stupid' question and rattle them off. So, I won't ask.

Let's just dive in and see what this one is about before I say anything else, okay?

ENGINEERING

How the Six Simple Machines Support the World

by Carla Mooney

Illustrated by Lex Cornell

Nomad Press

Tween Nonfiction

128 pages

ages 12 to 15

COMING...

OCTOBER 15th!!!

A fully illustrated book about simple machines for the next generation of engineers!

How do we build skyscrapers? How did ancient people construct pyramids? Why are gears an essential part of motors?

In Engineering: How the Six Simple Machines Support the World, young engineers learn how mechanical, structural, civil, and other types of engineering are based on the six simple machines that humans have been using for thousands of years. The screw, pulley, wedge, wheel and axle, inclined plane, and lever are used to build roads, skyscrapers, bridges, engines, and even other tools. They are the building blocks on which more complicated machines are based. Without these six simple machines, the world would look far different and be much more work to navigate!

Dive deep into the history of simple machines, from ancient times to present day, and learn the physics behind how they increase efficiency and productivity through mechanical advantage. Hands-on STEM activities encourage use of the engineering design process as kids brainstorm and build practical prototypes and explore how we might employ simple machines in the future.

Additional materials include a glossary, a list of media for further learning, a selected bibliography, and index. All books are leveled for Guided Reading level and Lexile and align with Common Core State Standards and Next Generation Science Standards.

All titles are available in paperback, hardcover, and ebook formats.

GOODREADS  

MY TIDBITS  

Starting with a two-page timeline, which highlights the major inventions throughout human history, this book takes a deep dive into six, very simple mechanisms and how they changed the world.

While inclined planes, screws, pulleys, wedges, levers, and wheels with axles may seem like overly simplified topics for the age group, this book proves how necessary the understanding of each one is for anyone, who enjoys engineering, creation, or simply making jobs easier to accomplish. Starting with the Egyptian pyramids, each mechanism is fully explained through historical and modern applications, and brought to life. The importance of each one in past and modern times becomes obvious, but this book goes beyond just the basic explanation and history. It also takes quick looks at everything surrounding the physics, mathematics, thought processes and more surrounding each one to give a fairly rounded (for the age group) look into the engineering and meaning behind each one.

While the main part of each page centers around the general information being presented, all sorts of extra explanations and facts are showcased in the sidebars. This includes everything from force/work equations to vocabulary terms to QR codes leading to videos and more. It's a treasure box of quick and short information for anyone, who really wants to learn more about the general topics. Much of the information does hit upon things readers might have touched upon during their science classes, will see in high school physics courses, and even gives a little beyond for anyone interested in continuing in the engineering field. 

The information offered is fitting to the age group. True science gurus will have already surpassed some of this (if they are on the upper end of the age group), but it's well-placed and even pushes most readers as it takes a very basic look at mechanical advantage calculations, considers how each device functions with graphics and more, leads readers through scientifical thought processes, looks at problem-solution situations, and works through a little history, too. To keep it from becoming too dry (because this isn't exactly a light read), each main chapter begins with a slightly humorous cartoon, and the writing style flows in a natural, down-to-earth way. 

This is a nice addition to science classrooms, homeschoolers, or simply those, who want to know more about the world around them, especially when it comes to basic engineering.

Buzz! Boom! Bang! The Book of Sounds by Benjamin Gottwald

It's Saturday, and that's an ideal day for some fun. Today's read should be perfect for exactly that.

 

BUZZ! BOOM! BANG!

The Book of Sounds

by Benjamin Gottwald

NorthSouth Books

Picture Book

168 pages

ages 4 and up

COMING... 

SEPTEMBER 30th!!!

A brand-new kind of interactive picture book invites you to make the sounds you see—and inspires endless fun.

This wordless picture book is meant to be read aLOUD!

Can you bang and boom,
caw and crash,
buzz and blub,
pitter-patter and pffffft?

Will you whoosh, yawn, moo or roar? It’s easy!

1. Open the book.
2. Make the sound that you see.
3. Giggle, turn the page, repeat.

With bold colors, zany illustrations, and no words at all, Buzz! Boom! Bang! inspires a whole new kind of reading experience.

GOODREADS    /    PUBLISHER

MY TIDBITS

No words but tons of creativity and fun make this a read to enjoy from beginning to end before flipping back to the beginning to start again.

Outside from the simple directions on how to use the book on the very first pages, there aren't any words in this read. But this is, by no means, a quiet book. Every page invites listeners/readers to create their own noises to fit each scene. Bright and bold illustrations hold clear actions, happenings, and more to show what sound should be made. For example, there's a sheep in a green pasture with its mouth wide open. What sound does that make? Well, that's where the listeners/readers come in.

While the first illustrations portray scenes, where most readers will make about the same noises, as the book progresses, so do the possibilities. For example, one image portrays a paper airplane in flight. Some of the two-page spreads even hold clever connections between the portrayed image on either side. For example, a pig jumping on a trampoline and the pig falling off and landing on the ground. While there are over 160 pages in this book, it goes by quickly and will hold the attention of even reluctant listeners as they make one noise after the other and compare theirs to those from the listeners around them.

Not only is this a fun read thanks to the huge variety of noises and sounds listeners will make...and of course, it gets everyone involved...but it's also illustrates how people can see something a little differently. Listeners will not only giggle and laugh the entire way through but compare noises and consider the differences without even realizing the importance of this task. 

It's a lovely addition to classroom settings, group exercises, or even just for a little fun.

Trance by KL Denman

 It's the cover on today's read which caught my attention...and it's another short young adult read. First off, that cover is eye-catching and immediately makes me wonder what this book is about. There's just depth to it, and that's nice to see, too. As to the length, I am all for long, good novels. I love them. But sometimes, short and sweet is enjoyable as well. Plus, this is another in Ocra's collection of reads meant for young adult readers, who aren't quite as fluid readers as others. I have enjoyed the reads in this collection so far and assume that this one won't be any different.

That said, let's dive in and take a peek.

TRANCE

by KL Denman

Orca Surroundings

YA Magical Realism

128 pages

COMING...

AUGUST 19th!!!

Kira is best friends with Brigid, a girl who has the strange ability to take someone's hand and visit the past lives of their ancestors.

When an accident kills Laney while Brigid was giving her a “reading,” Brigid becomes trapped in the past. Doctors think Brigid is in a coma but Kira knows she must find a way to save her. She discovers that the only way to pull Brigid out of the trance is to connect her to one of Laney’s blood relatives. The only problem? Laney was adopted. With the help of Laney’s family friend, Kira must track down the truth about Laney’s birth family before it’s too late.

This short novel is a high-interest, low-reading level book for teen readers who are building reading skills, want a quick read or say they don’t like to read!

GOODREADS     /      PUBLISHER

MY TIDBITS

Emotions run high as a girl's life hangs on the line and no one seems willing to help a best friend save her.

Laney's best friend, Brigid, has the ability to let her soul travel to the past and talk to the ancestors of people she's touching. She's long since embraced this ability, and Laney does her best to protect her while she uses these sessions to help others. During one such moment, disaster strikes, and the person Brigid is touching dies, leaving Brigid's soul stuck in the past and her body in a coma. The only way to save her is the touch of a blood relative of the person she was helping, but the person was seeking assistance because they wanted to discover, who their parents truly were due to an adoption. Add that Brigid's mother is a religious fanatic, who can't know of her daughter's powers or she'll consider her a demon, and the clock is ticking. Especially since Brigid's mother is dead set on euthanasia. 

The book begins in a very grabbing way. Not only does the author make the abilities of Brigid, the friendship between the girls, and the danger of the situation clear immediately, the tension and desperation hit already a few pages in. That Laney can't fail in her attempt to save her friend's life is obvious and makes it so easy to root for. Plus, there's all sorts of drama and directions going on in the background, which she needs to discover and weave through. Brigid's mother barely appears in the novel, but the horrid ripples the woman causes feed palpable desperation. Teens will have no problem relating to this lack of control and power they have over parents, and the problem stubbornness can cause. 

This is more of an emotional read than suspense, and the paranormal aspect, while interesting, happens as an undertone, since it has to do with her friend and not her. There's also a little romance direction, which works fine but wasn't necessary to the story...outside of the fact that romance is always heart-warming. Everything rounds off nicely and the story gives some food for thought in important and difficult themes, such as religious fanaticism, parent-child relations, and euthanasia. The plot does keep things rolling, and there are plenty of surprises. Everything works out a bit too simple to solve the issue, but not enough to ruin the story.

It's an interesting read, which addresses several important issues and adds enough tension to keep things interesting the entire way through.

And here she is...

K.L. Denman is an author of middle-grade, YA and adult fiction. Many of her titles have been nominated for literary awards, including Me, Myself and Ike, which was a finalist for the Governor General’s Literary Award. She began her writing career as a contributor to her school newspaper but didn’t take it up seriously until many years later when she found her true passion in writing fiction. She is the author of Orca Currents titles Mirror Image and Agent Angus. She lives in Delta, British Columbia.

A Cup of Happy: Capybara Bubble Tea by Helen H. Wu

Today's read is something I've been excited to dive into for awhile, now. The bright colors and very cute creatures on the cover had me smiling the second I saw this book. And bubble tea? Well, that just happens to be a year-long favorite of my youngest daughter. There's no way I was going to let this one pass me by without a peek.

So, let's see what goodness it holds!

A CUP OF HAPPY

CAPYBARA BUBBLE TEA

by Helen H. Wu

CapyFun

Children's Animal Fiction

16 pages

ages 3 to 8

COMING...

AUGUST 5th!!!

A whimsical adventure of creativity and teamwork as capybara friends explore bubble tea and celebrate life’s simple joys.
Join Capy, Cali, and Cavin, three curious and adorable capybara friends from the peaceful planet Capyzenia, on a whimsical Earth adventure! In this heartwarming tale filled with cute, kawaii art, the trio sets out to create their own bubble tea, learning through fun hands-on experiments and teamwork. With the help of new Earthling friends—a turtle, a bunny, and a duck—the capybaras discover the value of creativity, embracing differences, and cherishing life’s simple joys. Through trial and error in cooking, they not only master the art of bubble tea but also explore the importance of friendship and sharing a “cup of happy.”
Written and illustrated by Helen H. Wu, A CUP OF HAPPY: CAPYBARA BUBBLE TEA is perfect for capybara fans and readers who love stories about exploration, making new friends, and celebrating uniqueness.
Featuring engaging educational back matter, readers will discover:
✔️ 
✔️ Fascinating facts about capybaras, the world's largest and most easygoing rodents.
✔️ 
✔️ The rich history of tea, milk tea, and bubble tea, tracing its cultural roots across the world.
✔️ 
✔️ A fun, kid-friendly homemade fruit bubble tea recipe, perfect for young boba lovers to try at home!
This adorable book inspires young minds to embrace creativity, try new things, and savor the little moments that bring us all together.

GOODREADS    /     AMAZON

MY TIDBITS

Good feelings and cuteness shift into overdrive in an adorable read, which teaches a little about capybaras and bubble tea, too.

This book slides into good vibes pure and lets that shine on every page. The capybaras are adorable and very friendly, and this comes across constantly. To add an interesting twist, they start out in space. Yep, these capybaras come from another planet...which sounds a little odd, maybe, but it works thanks to the bright colors and sense of fantasy it brings in. Together, the capybara trio wants to create a yummy drink. Here, the little scientist in me has to smile, since the tale shows that experimentation doesn't always lead to immediate results, but it takes time and mistakes before the goal is reached. (So, a valuable message).

Each page pops with bright colors and echoes fun to keep the smiles going. The text is kept short...usually about four lines or so...and works nicely as a read aloud or for more sure readers to tackle on their own. Either way, the shortness of the read also makes it a good choice for more reluctant readers. While I did wonder if this shorter length would mean less of a tale, it really doesn't.

Of course, the plot is relatively simple and straight forward, but there's quite a bit of goodness included. First, as mentioned above, there are the messages surrounding trial and error as well as sharing. Then, the author adds in little tidbits about capybaras. This is further deepened in the last pages with some capybara facts. Also, readers learn about bubble tea. At the end of the book, there is more information surrounding tea and a recipe to create a simple bubble tea at home.

It's a super cute, short, has a couple wholesome messages, and delivers facts along the way. Add the positive vibes, and it's a lovely read.

The Only Ghost at Summer Camp by Tara J. Hannon

THE ONLY GHOST AT SUMMER CAMP

by Tara J. Hannon

Penguin Workshop

Children's Paranormal

96 pages

ages 6 to 9

COMING...

AUGUST 12th!!!

The Haunted Library meets Casper the Friendly Ghost in this faboolous second book of a highly illustrated chapter book series about friendship and belonging—perfect for early, emerging, and reluctant readers.

It’s summertime in Smithville, and camping in the great outdoors with his BFF Tate is Ghostie’s idea of a dream come true. But when their summer camp counselor gathers everyone around the campfire for scary ghost stories, he makes everybody—including Tate—afraid of GHOSTS!  To make matters worse, Ghostie’s parents get called on to run the camp after the counselor catches the flu.

Ghostie’s dream come true has suddenly become a nightmare. Is his friendship with Tate over? And how will two ghosts run a camp full of kids who are terrified of them?

With charming full-color art throughout, this second book in the Only Ghost chapter book series highlights that the only way to find true belonging is to accept ourselves and celebrate the differences that we see in each other.

GOODREADS     /     PUBLISHER

MY TIDBITS

Summer camp takes on a whole new level of fun thanks to this friendly and adorable ghost.

Ghostie has settled into Smithville and enjoys spending time with his best-friend, Tate, who also happens to be human. That means that Tate is going to go to a human summer camp...and Ghostie, although a ghost, has the rare chance to go with him. Ghostie is so excited and can't wait to get there. While he's very different than everyone else, he's doing his best to enjoy every moment. But the differences between ghost and human are hard to ignore. When someone tells a ghost story, Ghostie is a little offended. Worse yet, Tate refuses to listen to his reasoning as to why he didn't like it and won't talk to him any more. Now, Ghostie is not only the odd ball at summer camp, but his very best friend might not speak to him ever again.

This is the second book in the series, and while reading the first one would definitely help set the stage for Ghostie and his life in Smithville, it can be read as a standalone, too. 

Ghostie is an adorable ghost with a big heart. His joy at being with humans every day puts a smile on the face and starts everything off on a good note. Ghostie's family adds an unique spin to the tale, and it's fun to watch his father and mother swirl through the humans as they also do the best they can to fit in. They have Ghostie's back, which adds a level of wholesomeness and security. And yet, they are quirky enough to make it clear that Ghostie isn't sad when he doesn't have them following him to summer camp. Being ghosts also means that they have a few, fun phrases popping up everywhere, eat odd things, and have interesting hobbies and holidays. All of this adds quirky humor to make it an enjoyable story from beginning to end.

While the ghost side adds fun, Ghostie deals with a few situations that readers will be able to identify with. Being the only ghost, he sticks out among humans and feels singled out. Ghostie tries to ignore the problem, but it eats at him and, finally, causes bigger problems. He might need help to get everything worked out but isn't sure what to do...and that's the main message of this tale.

The text is written in a large font with plenty of spacing for easy reading. There are lovely illustrations on every page to help break things up and add visual spice. It's for those readers, who are sure of their words and are ready for slightly larger chapter books but still need more time before picking up a small novel.

It's a fun series and I'm curious to see what Ghostie will do next.

Fluffle Bunnies: Big City Buns by Anna Humphrey

After the nonfiction and more serious and calm atmosphere of the last few reads, I needed some fun. And these bunnies promise to hold tons of that. This is the 2nd in the graphic novel series (nope, I didn't read the 1st). It's aimed at more beginner readers, which is also an area, which I seem to enjoy more and more. Of course, the three bunnies on the front win over right away: cuteness and urban adventure. It's like dark meets white. 

If this is as fun as I hope it is? Let's find out!

BIG CITY BUNS

Fluffle Bunnes #2

by Anna Humphrey

Illustrated by Irma Knivila

Tundra Books

Children's Animal Fiction / 

Graphic Novel

162 pages

ages 6 to 9

The Fluffle Bunnies are back for the second installment in their bad-bunny kingpin saga. A brand-new graphic novel chapter book series for Bad Guys fans ages 6 and up.

Biggie, Boingy and Flop have the park under control, and life is grand, if maybe a bit . . . boring.

When they see a festival pop up nearby, they decide to investigate, and when they have a run-in with a group of city rats, their little park suddenly seems like small carrots.

The Fluffle sets their sights on a bigger prize. But can this adorable gang really take over the whole city?

Only if they can do it their way . . .

GOODREADS    /    AMAZON    /    B&N

MY TIDBITS

Adventure mixes with a little humor and cuteness to create an exciting read.

Biggie, Boingy, and Flop are the Fluffle Bunnies, and they love their cushy life in the park. They are adored and pampered. When they see a nearby festival, they decide it'll be fun to visit, but instead of fun, they are constantly headed-off by a trio of rats. The rats claim they control the city and won't let the Fluffle Bunnies do anything. But the Fluffle Bunnies aren't that easy to push around.

It's not necessary to read the first book to enjoy this second one...although the fly, who gets the tale started, would make immediate sense if the first book had been read. But it still makes a lovely stand-alone, since the Fluffle Bunnies experience an entire, new adventure. After a quick introduction to their wonderful lives, the fun begins, and what better way than with a fair? The disappointment and bullying comes out very clear and draws sympathy for the bunnies. Their cuteness magnifies this, of course. After that, it's pure fun as the bunnies do their best to handle the nasty rats. It's quick-paced, simple, and holds tons of silly humor. The plot isn't exactly intricate, but then, considering this is for beginning readers, that isn't really a bad thing. The bunnies are constantly facing new predicaments, and some of these carry heart.

The graphics are in black and white in the copy I received and well done. They drive the tale and humor forward right along with the easy-to-read text. It fits the age group nicely and will even entertain older readers, who just want a silly, light read.

And here she is...

ANNA HUMPHREY has worked in marketing for a poetry organization, in communications for the Girl Guides of Canada, as an editor for a webzine, as an intern at a decorating magazine, and for the government. None of those was quite right, so she started her own freelance writing and editing business, created the Megabat, Bee and Flea and Clara Humble series and wrote many other books for kids and teens. She lives with her husband and two kids in a big, old brick house in Kitchener, Ontario.

How the New Seven Wonders of the World Were Built by Jiri Bartunek and Tom Velkovsky

Today's read hit the market about a week ago and heads in the direction of architecture, history, and construction. I thought a little nonfiction is always a good thing, so I decided to take a peek. I'll admit that I'm curious to see what the 'new' seven wonders are. The old is still stuck in my head as the true official one. Of course, I've heard that some new lists have been made during the last years (not that I understand what was wrong with the old ones,. but that's my age and stubbornness talking).

Anyway, I'm just looking forward to seeing some historical-building goodness and am curios how this book handles the theme. 

 

I almost forgot that it's Monday! That means there is tons of middle grade goodness over at the MMGM (Marvelous Middle Grade Monday) over HERE. Knowers and lovers of literature for this age group recommend all sorts of tales to dive into. So, if you're into middle grade literature, you're going to want to head over there and take a peek.

HOW THE NEW SEVEN WONDERS OF THE WORLD WERE BUILT

by Jiri Bartunek and Tom Velkovsky

Illustrated by Jan Sramek

Albatros Media

48 pages

ages 8 to 12

A Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection In the next book in the How the Wonders were Built series, the new seven wonders of the world are introduced from the architectural point of view in this fully illustrated title. The Great Wall of China, Petra, The Colosseum, Chichén Itzá, Machu Picchu, The Taj Mahal, and Christ the Redeemer were selected as the new seven wonders of the world by over 600 million people who participated in a vote between 2000 and 2007. But have you ever wondered how these monumental structures were built centuries ago without using the modern technologies and heavy machinery that is available today? This book will give you the answers you are looking for. These buildings are a cross-section of world architecture, offering a unique opportunity to compare the approaches, but also cultures of the entire world and different historical periods.
Come and travel with us across the world and time and peek behind the curtain of the creation of the architectural monuments that have helped shape the current world.

GOODREADS    /    AMAZON    /    B&N

MY TIDBITS

While the construction of seven World Wonders remains at the center of this book, it also works in cultural and history facts to make a rounded glimpse into the topic.

This book centers around the Seven New World Wonders as decided in Switzerland by a popular vote between 2000-2007 and includes The Great Wall of China, Petra, The Colosseum, Chichen Itza, Machu Picchu, The Taj Mahal, and Christ the Redeemer. It begins with a Table of Contents and a very simple world map with the general location of each wonder pointed out and a small illustration of the wonder. Then, the authors explain where this new list came from and it's purpose...which was nice and insightful. 

Each wonder is presented big and bold on a two-page spread and more information follows on the next few pages. The construction methods, materials, and specific uses are explored, and where it isn't exactly known, the authors give an educated explanation to what might have been. These are supported with illustrations, which make it easy to understand how the construction was done. But that's not where it ends. The authors weave in information surrounding the people who built it or used it, such as clothing, tools, and such. The history surrounding the construction as well as the importance in the culture at the time also gives glimpses into the life of the people as well as their values. 

This was nicely put together and offers all sorts of interesting information. The text is kept pretty concise and delivers the facts in an interesting manner...never too heavy. So, even easily-bored readers will be kept in the pages. There were moments where a little more information would have been useful or interesting (for example: the Colosseum concentrates on the gladiator games...my daughter missed the information about the ability to flood it for ship fights. Also, a couple very basic people sketches being presented as a certain Emperor or general was odd, since they were hardly identifiable). Other presented information was a tiny bit off. But all in all, it's a very interesting, especially for the intended audience and general direction the information takes.

It would make a nice addition to a theme surrounding the Seven World Wonders or for exploring the various moments in history, too.

And here they are...

Jiří Bartůněk studied at a technical school specializing in the building industry and then he went on to graduate in Classical Archaeology from Masaryk University; he gained his doctorate in Ancient History. He has lived in the United Kingdom, Sweden and Iceland. He works as an archaeologist and historian with interests in technical, social, military, eschatological and other, lesser-known aspects of ancient civilizations. His main professional purpose is popularization of history for the general public, which he achieves by his publications, exhibition-related work at museums, and practical demonstrations including fencing shows.

Tom Velčovský is a graduate in Audiovisual Production from the Silesian University in Opava, where he specialized in screenwriting and storyboards. Before switching to children’s books and the making of comic strips, he worked in advertising.

Jan Šrámek is a visual artist, illustrator and teacher. He is a graduate of the Faculty of Fine Arts of the Brno University of Technology, where he currently heads the Video Studio alongside Martin Mazanec. His work has been presented at galleries and festivals all over the world, notably in London, New York, Amsterdam, Seoul and Beijing. In 2014, he was co-creator of the Czecho-Slovak pavilion at the Venice Biennale of Architecture. He received a Czech Grand Design 2017 award in the Illustrator of the Year category for the artist’s book Special Circumstances and his illustrations for the Paneland exhibition. His illustrations for the book That’s Metro, Man! were selected for a prestigious exhibition at the Bologna Children’s Book Fair in 2020.