Ready Or Not by Andi Porretta!

Today's read hit the shelves on the 2nd and comes from a graphic novel printed a few years ago, Roofhoppers, but now carries a new title (maybe some other changes, but I wouldn't know). When I think of graphic novels, I usually expect some sort of fantasy, paranormal, science fiction, horror, or mystery twist, but lately, it seems as if there have been quite a few coming out on the contemporary end. This one slides right into that trend. 

So, let's take a peek!

READY OR NOT

by Andi Porretta

Atheneum Books

YA Contemporary  /  Graphic Novel

336 pages

An anxious teen hopes that a summer of adventure and offbeat dares will keep her friend group together after graduation in this luminous coming-of-age graphic novel with the feel-good vibes of Booksmart and Morgan Matson’s Since You’ve Been Gone.

With senior year finally behind them, Cassie and her three best friends are on their way to what’s next. Like their parents, the crew has always been there’s Marcy, the artist, for whom style is self-expression and sarcasm is a love language; Aaron, the future lawyer, whose good humor balances out his competitive streak; Nico, the musician, whose flirtatiousness, obliviousness, and recent interest in a rising senior are becoming increasingly unbearable to Cassie; and of course, Cassie herself, the only one who doesn’t have her future all figured out.

This summer is their last chance to make memories together in New York City before everyone but Cassie scatters across the globe for college—and she’s determined to make the most of it. Her plan? They’ll spend August playing the game of dares and risks they invented as kids! From adventurous to outrageous, these dares will definitely make for an unforgettable summer. Even better, Cassie is hopeful they’ll help the group stay friends no matter what…because she is not ready for a future without them.

GOODREADS    /     AMAZON    /     B&N     /     GREENLIGHT BOOKSTORE

MY TIDBITS

The desire to hold on to what was as the new begins hits with natural heart and heartache to bring the feelings home.

High school is done and gone, leaving one last summer for the close group of four friends before each embarks on the next stage of their life. Only Cassie is staying in town and working at her parents' business until she decides what she wants to do. Her hope to spend the last three months with her friends before they split quickly dims as each one starts to slide into preparation for their departure Then, Cassie has an idea. With a more challenging game of dare, the group comes together. As they do, the fears and insecurities of each one starts to come to light...and they learn that even the long-years of friendship hasn't taught them everything there is to know about each other.

The unsure time between high school and college/job comes across with angst, uncertainty, anticipation, and so many other emotions in a very familiar way, and these pages handle them wonderfully. Cassie's hopes meet disappointing reality as she wants to hold on to something that is already slipping away or, at least, changing. The doubt and sadness is understandable and easy to relate to as she simply wants to spend more time with her friends. This comes across even better thanks to the relationship between the four. They might have very different personalities, but it's clear they share a special connection, and this makes the sadness that they are about to part that much more potent. Yet, the growing schism is also obvious, especially as they push each other away thanks to their own fears of what is about to come and not being enough or really ready for it.

The graphic novel aspect is nicely done. The artwork fits the atmosphere and brings across the emotions well. It creates an easy, quick read despite the depth and emotional weight. While this does make it much more approachable and allows the characters to connect with the reader in a visual way, it also skims a bit too quick over the circumstances when compared to a full-fleshed novel. This weakens the emotional possibilities and messaging, since it keeps the characters and their thoughts an arm's length away. 

This is a potent coming-of-age, which will hit home with anyone facing the changes which come when friends leave. It's has an honest and open atmosphere, and is an entertaining read with heart from beginning to end.

And here she is...

Andi Porretta is a Philly-born illustrator, storyteller, and rom-com watcher. She studied illustration and design at Pratt Institute and currently resides in Brooklyn with her best friends and pet cat. When she isn’t drawing, you might find Andi at her local coffee shop, palling around, or missing her subway stop (again). Ready or Not is her debut graphic novel.

The McNifficents by Amy Makechnie

Happy July 4th! We're expecting quite a bit of rain (storms) today, so I don't think we're going to be celebrating in a big way, but we'll enjoy the holiday, anyway. 

I hope all of you do, too!

THE MCNIFFICENTS

by Amy Makechnie

Simon & Schuster

Middle Grade Animal Fiction

320 pages

ages 8 to 12

A senior Miniature Schnauzer employed as a very distinguished nanny has his paws full trying to prove he’s still the dog for the job in this sweet and “chaotically entertaining” ( Kirkus Reviews ) middle grade novel that’s The Secret Life of Pets meets The Vanderbeekers series.

Every day, Lord Tennyson the Miniature Schnauzer does his very best to care for the six McNiff children and keep them from destroying their pink New England farmhouse—and the rest of the town for that matter. But when summer vacation brings the kids home together all day, his chaos-containing skills are put to the ultimate test.

Baby Sweetums is still refusing to walk, nap, or listen to anyone; Ezra is trying to keep a snake as a secret pet; Annie and Mary’s fighting is worse than ever; and Pearl and Tate are scared of just about everything. And when a particularly tempting troop of baby chicks arrives at the house, even Lord Tennyson finds he can’t stay on his best behavior.

As the chaos begin to spiral out of hand, though, something truly awful Mr. and Mrs. McNiff seem to be considering getting “a real nanny” to care for their big brood! Can Lord Tennyson get the McNiffs’ hijinks under control and teach them to behave before the summer’s out? Or will this most unusual nanny find himself out of a job and back in the doghouse?

GOODREADS    /      AMAZON    /     B&N     /      STORYGLORY KIDS

MY TIDBITS

Big family heart and chaos are left to be conquered by a highly sophisticated dog, who might love his family more than anyone knows.

Lord Tennyson is a miniature schnauzer...not a young one...and realizes it's his duty to care for the six McNiff children and teach them to be caring, well-mannered, and all-around good humans. But his job isn't easy. Mr. and Mrs. McNiff are a little off in their own worlds and don't always take tight rein of the children like they should. Luckily, Lord Tennyson is up for the job. And what a job it is!

There's never a quiet or calm moment as a keen, honorable, and maybe-not-as-lofty-as-he-claims dog attempts to steer six problem children like a nanny. The tale is told from his perspective as he does his best to keep each one out of trouble, guide their behaviors, and show them how to get along. Sometimes, it works. Sometimes, it doesn't. But each moment brings humor or familiar issues which hit home and come across naturally.

The tale propels from one situation to the next and is driven by the children's naughty antics...and they can be mean. While they have distinct personalities, it does take awhile to get grasp on each one. I missed a bit more individual connection in the beginning, but it comes as the story goes on. It's Lord Tennyson who stays at the center of the story, anyway, as he tries to manage everything as best he can, and these kids need all the help they can get. They are always up to something in various ways. The parents are often absent (not only physically but mentally distracted), which adds a different tone but works. Since it's Lord Tennyson, who drives the arc, the plot plays nicely, and messages surrounding forgiveness and understanding come across loud and clear.

Especially the lower end of the middle grade audience will enjoy this read. Although it weighs in with around 340 pages, the larger font and spacing allow for easier reading. There are lovely illustrations scattered throughout the read to add to the atmosphere. While there are important messages and character arcs, the plot moves along quickly and offers a somewhat lighter depth. This might leave the older end of the age group wishing for a bit more. 

It's an entertaining read, which highlights sibling antics and packs more than a little humor. Plus, Lord Tennyson is a super sweet dog to root for the entire way through.

And here she is...

Amy Makechnie is an author of books for young people of all ages. Her novels include The Unforgettable Guinevere St. Clair, Ten Thousand Tries, and The McNifficents. Stay in touch with Amy by subscribing to her newsletter at AmyMakechnie.com

Author vs. Illustrator by Donald Lemke

 

It's IWSG time!

Purpose: To share and encourage. Writers can express doubts and concerns without fear of appearing foolish or weak. Those who have been through the fire can offer assistance and guidance. It’s a safe haven for insecure writers of all kinds!

Alex J. Cavanaugh is the amazing founder of this even more amazing group. Special thanks goes to this month's co-hosts: JS Pailly, Rebecca Douglass, Pat Garcia, Louise-Fundy Blue, and Natalie Aguirre!

I've been underway the last few days to help my daughter move down to Arkansas, so I'm going to keep this short and sweet by just answering the month's question:

What are your favorite writing processing (e.g. Word, Scrivener, yWriter, Dabble), writing apps, software, and tools? Why do you recommend them? And which one is your all time favorite that you cannot live without and use daily or at least whenever you write?

I'm pretty old-fashioned when it comes to writing and stick to my pen and paper as well as Word. I've tried Scrivener but found myself more irritated than anything else. There are all sorts of wonderful help-tools, but I felt as if I was shoving valuable writing time into using the tools...more than they were helping. It just didn't fit my style, especially since I love to use my large writing-wall with notes to pin and shove around as needed. It's always large and in front of me. As to editing, I'm old-fashioned on that end, too...although I do use online thesauruses and such rather than heavy print tombs. Add amazing critique partners and betas, and I'm a happy camper...uh, writer.

What about you? Do you use any writing software/programs? What do you love best about them?

******

I'm very curious to dive into today's read. Obviously, this one heads more to writing and illustrating fans, and I'm wondering if it's more about the fun and humor or holds any tips and tricks? I really have no idea what to expect, so let's dive in and find out.

AUTHOR VS. ILLUSTRATOR

by Donald Lemke

Illustrated by Bob Lenz

Capstone Editions

Children's Fiction

40 pages

ages 4 to 8

COMING...

AUGUST 1st!!!

At the far reaches of Earth, high upon a mountaintop, a bustling city is under attack by a . . . cute little furball? Wait—what?! That’s not right. The author wrote this book about a “ferocious beast,” not a cuddly critter. Turns out, the book’s illustrator has other plans. Page by page, these clashing collaborators are writing (and drawing) themselves into the story for a full-on creator combat—a bookmaking BATTLE ROYALE! Can the author make a successful book with no pictures? Can the Illustrator tell a tale without words? (A picture is worth a thousand of them, he says.) Or will this dueling duo get on the same page at last to create the ultimate happy ending?

From Lemke & Lentz (the quirky collaborators behind Call of Doodie and Book-O-Beards) comes a laugh-out-loud picture book about the not-so-simple process of creating a picture book. Full of over-the-top humor and under-the-radar lessons—including the skills of teamwork, conflict resolution, and respect—this book is a must-have for young writers, budding artists, and lifelong book lovers.

GOODREADS    /     AMAZON     /      B&N

MY TIDBITS

This tale is for all future authors or illustrators out there...or for those, who simply enjoy a  humorous read.

Two friends/co-creators have a new idea for a story. The author has the plot all worked out, while the illustrator is ready to work his magic. While the author's monster comes to life on the page thanks to the illustrator, the superhero, who will defeat him, seems to have a few more kinks. The author knows what he wants, but the illustrator has some amazing ideas, too. As the story progresses, the two drift further and further apart and ridiculous scenarios form. Now, it's a question as to whether the story will come to an end or not.

This is a cross between a picture book and a graphic novel, and slides nicely into the upper chapter book/lower middle grade level. The two characters are great friends and, obviously, work well together. When the first problem arrives, the two work it out with finesse, but as the differences between their opinions increase little-by-little, the tension builds right along with it. Both are enthusiastic about what they do, which makes each one just a little bit extreme...and fun. As the argument builds, it's hard not to cringe, knowing the fight will only get worse, but on the same hand, there's enough mounting ridiculousness to draw smiles and giggles, too. 

The text sticks to the speech bubbles as the tale is told through the two friends' back-and-forth. The illustrations pick up everything else and deliver the scenes as well as the emotions nicely. 

It's a pretty quick-paced read and not only shows the different roles an author and an illustrator play, but also hits upon friendship, disagreements, and working things out.

And here he is...

Donald Lemke works as a children’s book editor and writer. He has written dozens of books for young readers—from board books to middle-grade novels—that often include today’s most popular characters, such as Batman, Superman, Scooby-Doo, and more. He lives in St. Paul, Minnesota, with his beloved family, which includes his wife, Amy, and their three growing-up-way-too-fast daughters.

Our Building by Joseph Coelho

It was the cover that caught my attention on today's read. The colors happen to be one of my favorites when it comes to color schemes (no, I don't use these together very often but just smile when I see them). Add the curious looking threesome and there's the promise of adventure. The ebook is already available and the hardcopy will be release around the beginning of August.

OUR BUILDING

by Joseph Coelho

Illustrated by Richard Johnson

Frances Lincoln Children's Books

Picture Book

48 pages

ages 4 to 8

This magical story follows three children living in a high-rise apartment block, as they embark on a fantastical adventure which helps them see their home in a new light.

A deeply personal story written by the award winning poet Joseph Coelho, drawn from his own experience growing up in an apartment block and looking for adventure. This story is a celebration of, and a reclaiming of high-rise apartment blocks as a place where magic and adventure can happen.

It’s a modern-day fable that shows the children of an apartment block travelling to a strange, magical world inside a tree and meeting an old man with supernatural powers, only to realise that the magic they’d been looking for had been in their block all along.

Beautiful illustrations complement the poetic narrative, creating an enchanting story which children and adults alike will fall in love with.
​
This powerful story is about how society separates ‘urban’ spaces from the countryside, but the reality is that nature is everywhere, and everyone should have access to it. 

GOODREADS    /     QUARTO    /     AMAZON   /     B&N

MY TIDBITS

Like falling into a day-dream, this tale slides smoothly into the world of fantasy to create an enchanting adventure.

The apartment building is gray, but then, so are the streets and everything surrounding it. If the children gaze out of their windows, they can see the leaves of a large tree in the distance. And there's a rustling song. No one seems to notice it but them. One day, they decided to head out and find the tree. Considering how far away it is, it's quite the adventure. What they discover is something more magical than they ever imagined.

This is a beautifully illustrated picture book, which follows a poetic atmosphere and glides on the blurred lines between reality and fantasy. The children live in a high-rise apartment building, which is presented as cold and gray with people caught up in the monotone of their lives. The atmosphere hits with weight, especially since the illustrations present the city on a rainy day. Only the kids bring color, and this slowly builds to contrast against the gray, depressing scenes right along with their adventure. When they arrive at the forest, the colors take over. What first begins as simple trees, takes a very imaginative turn...and then, after heading into sheer fantasy, settles back into reality as they return to the city and bring a new perspective with them. It is a well-arced tale, which invites to dreams and demonstrates how life appears heavily depends on the perspective.

The illustrations are enjoyable to visit all on their own, and the text adds the details and understanding. Much of the tale is told in four-lined verse, but sometimes more and others less. For the most part, these flows smoothly. The phrases are kept fairly short and bring across each moment with lyrical atmosphere. While most verses are very understandable for even the younger listeners, as the tale progresses, deeper meaning slips in to give slightly older readers a bit more to think about. Some more impatient listeners might get fidgety at the pacing of the poetic flair, but others will enjoy the dive into the imagination and gaze through it long after the story is read.

And here they are...

JOSEPH COELHO is the Waterstones Children's Laureate 2022-2024. In 2019 he won the Independent Bookshop Week Picture Book Award for If All the World Were which has been translated into over 10 languages. He has been long-listed for The Carnegie Children's Award with his poetry collection 'Overheard In A Tower Block', which was also shortlisted for the CLPE CLiPPA Poetry Award and Longlisted for the UKLA Book Awards. He won the 2015 CLPE CLiPPA Poetry Award with his debut poetry collection Werewolf Club Rules. His debut Picture Book, Luna Loves Library Day was voted one of the nations favourite picture books by a survey led by World Book Day. His other poetry books include How To Write Poems and A Year Of Nature Poems .

He has written plays for companies including: Soho Theatre, Polka Theatre, The Unicorn Theatre, Theatre Royal York, Oily Cart and The Spark Children's Festival to name a few. 

Joseph has been a guest poet on Cbeebies Rhyme Rocket, Radio 4's Poetry Playtime and Front Row. He is the presenter of BBC's Teach Poetry (Oct 2018) and features in DiscoveryEDUK's Poetry Curriculum.

Richard Johnson is an illustrator whose picture books have been published by Penguin, Faber & Faber, Macmillan, DK, and many others. His work is deeply thoughtful and conjures up powerful atmospheres with detailed, delicate pencil strokes.

What's Coming in July?

Did anyone else think that June was hot enough to count as July? It'd fit since the summer seems to be sliding by past me, anyway. I've been so busy renovating, splitting wood, and...honestly, I have no clue what else, but it's been very busy. 

I'm starting out this month by helping my daughter move down to Arkansas for med-school. The run should be quite the adventure considering it's her first time driving such a huge truck (Uhaul). And my youngest two and I will be driving two other vehicles, which will also be transporting a dog, two cats, and a 5-foot boa constrictor. We didn't think it'd be wise to put all of them in one vehicle. Luckily, it's only about 3- 3 1/2 hour drive. Totally do-able.

On the reading front, I have quite a few middle grade and young adult reads in my pile. Actually, a lot. Where are all the picture books? That means heavier reading hours for me, but I am looking forward to it. When glancing through the themes, I see a couple spooky reads and some magic, but mostly it appears to be a month of surprises. I'm going a little off the main-stream the next weeks and will be looking at a few with slightly unique vibes. So, it could be quite a bit of fun.

Before I babble more, here's a sneak peek:

OUR BUILDING

With a hint of imagination, this picture book should explore the idea of community and joy of life. I was won over the second I saw the cover. I'm curious to see how the fantasy side weaves into reality, and if it's as enchanting as it claims to be. I'll see how it works on the 2nd.

Picture Book

MASS EXODUS

I've read works from this author before, normally in the horror direction, and have enjoyed them. This one heads into the realm of science fiction. The blurb reminds me a bit of The Sound of Thunder by Ray Bradbury. I'm looking forward to see where this one heads because it promises to be packed with excitement and action. Join me on the 6th to learn more.

Young Adult Science Fiction

ASH'S CABIN

I immediately picked this one up when I saw it. It is a graphic novel about a boy, who dreams of building his own cabin and surviving out in the great outdoors. Alone. I'm getting all sorts of My Side of the Mountain vibes with this one and am excited to see how it plays out. There are mentions of environmental themes as well, so it should have quite a bit of adventure and depth. I'll be exploring it on the 8th.

Middle Grade Adventure   /    Graphic Novel

THE GRAY CITY

The blurb on this read reminded me of a popular children's story in Germany. A little girl wants to bring back color to a gray world. Instead of going up against an evil, secret society, this book places a girl against a corporation...or company...or something like that. I do hope it carries lovely illustrations and am curious to see how the story draws in. Find out more on the 12th.

Children's Fiction

THE MAKES CLUB: A GRAPHIC NOVEL

I did review a book from this series not too long ago and found it to be well-done. So, when I saw that it's now coming out in graphic novel form, I decided to take a peek. It's always fun to see how the different book formats compare to each other. Find out all about it with me on the 13th.

Middle Grade Contemporary   /    Graphic Novel

NO HORSING AROUND

Horse books have always found fans and seem to delight, especially at the chapter book and middle grade level, but I haven't seen many directed at YAers. So, I'm more than a little curious about this one. It's part of a series (the 6th book) and I'm going to jump right in with my usual, late style. Let's see how enjoyable it is on the 15th.

Young Adult Contemporary

KEITH THE CROC THAT LOST HIS TEETH    

I'm ready for a little silliness, and this book promises exactly that. A crocodile, who loses its teeth should offer all sorts of funny situations. I assume there's a message in these pages, too, but I'm hoping the humor doesn't dim because of it. We'll see if giggles are guaranteed on the 19th or not.

Picture Book

WAGES OF EMPIRE

This historical fiction read is set during WWI and heads away from Europe toward the earlier Ottoman territories, especially Jerusalem. My daughter and I just covered this period in her history section (home schooling) and took an extra close peek due to the current situation in Israel. It will be interesting to see how this novel handle the topic. Let's head into history on the 20th.

Young Adult Historical Fiction

PLAYMAKER

It takes some effort, but I can't forget to toss in a romance now and then. After all, what's summer without heart throbs and tender moments? This one should head in the romcom direction and be a friends into 'more' tale with all sorts of high school moments and issues tossed in. I'll see if I can squeeze this one in while sitting beside a pool or lake or...most likely...swimming hole. Find out more with me on the 24th.

Young Adult Romance

KEEP DANCING, LIZZIE CHU

I ran across this one thanks to Twitter and discovered that this author has a lovely selection of works available. So many fun titles! This one came out a few years ago but received a reprinting last year. I'm excited to dive in and see what it's about. Tap dancing, maybe? I'll let the music play on the 28th and see what these pages have in store.

Middle Grade Contemporary

Every month, I stare at my book pile and wonder how in the world I'll ever get to every single one. I won't. It's that simple. So, after filling my schedule with what comes in first (I do a little picking and choosing but am very open minded, for the most part), I always have a couple that I really, really wish I could squeeze in somehow. This month isn't any different.

THE MAGICIAN NEXT DOOR

I am really jumping the gun on this read, since it won't appear on the shelves until March 2025. But the second I saw that cover, I was dying to get my hands on a copy. I'm hoping for magical fun and tons of imagination. With adventure? And richness? Yep, I have an image in my head and have a feeling this read might be exactly what I'm yearning for, at the moment. Even if it doesn't appear for more than half a year. 

But when will I get to it? Will I get to it?

We'll see!