Reviews
Beep and Bah
“The story is awash in fanciful colors, quirky backdrops, kid humor (Nickelodeon style), wonderful expressions, and plenty of action. Sure to have kids clamoring for more.” —School Library Journal View →
Elmer and Super El
“The spreads are done in vivid colors and have everything Elmer fans have come to expect. This adorable tale shows young readers that even superheroes need help once in a while.” —School Library Journal View →
Drowning Instinct
“The novel begins slowly but quickly builds steam—and controversy—with unexpected turns and revelations. Neither the victims nor the predators are stereotypical and that ambiguity, while unsettling, is sure to spark discussion.” —School Library Journal View →
I Want to Win!
“The quirky pen, ink, and watercolor illustrations, which are replete with amusing details, enliven the simple, sweet story. The protagonist’s facial expressions are particularly comical. Fans will cheer on Little Princess in her quest for victory.” —School… View →
What Are the Articles of Confederation?: And Other Questions about the Birth of the United States
“The ‘six questions’ approach (who, what, where, when, why, how) provides a useful framework, taking readers through events in an easy-to-understand progression…. Period paintings, prints, and maps provide visual interest. Teachers will appreciate the list of… View →
“Expressive animal characters stand in for people, but their activities and the objects they use, from hairbrushes to running shoes, all relate solidly to a youngster’s experience. Cheery pen-and-ink illustrations pop off the background, which makes effective use of white… View →
The Girl Who Owned a City: The Graphic Novel
“Jones’s illustrations are shaded in brown and green earth tones and are filled with movement and life. The faces of the children are angular and interesting, looking realistically like kids who have been struggling to survive. This will be an ideal recommendation for readers View →
Lights Out Shabbat
“A rare snowstorm in Georgia knocks out the electricity one Friday night just as Shabbat begins. A boy spends the visit with his grandparents playing in the snow and enjoying their time together. Just after Havdalah (the end of the Jewish Sabbath), the power is restored. ‘It… View →
The Knife and the Butterfly
“Azael is a dynamic and sympathetic main character with an authentic voice…. This hard-hitting novel [will be an] an assured success in libraries serving high school students.” —School Library Journal View →
You Will Call Me Drog
“A thoughtful coming-of-age story.” —School Library Journal View →
Tarantulas: Supersized Predators
“Valuable resources for both students and arachnophiles alike.” —School Library Journal View →
No Crystal Stair: A Documentary Novel of the Life and Work of Lewis Michaux, Harlem Bookseller
“The storytelling format, candid perspectives, supplemental images, and historic connections bring to life an unheralded individualist whose story will engage readers.”&mdashstarred, School Library Journal View →
Spotty, Stripy, Swirly: What Are Patterns?
“This book is a visual treat that could be used by teachers looking for ways to introduce the topic, and it will attract browsers as well. A first purchase.” —School Library Journal View →
The White Zone
“Based on actual events, this novel is a realistic depiction of children caught up in hostilities they cannot fully understand…. Marsden’s detailed descriptions of everyday life make this culture come alive.” —School Library Journal View →
“Kali is a likeable, compelling heroine. Her dual existence rings true to normal teen angst about getting along with parents, making friends, and surviving high school.” —School Library Journal View →
Jennifer Lawrence: Star of The Hunger Games
“A mix of quotations and full-color photographs keeps readers’ interest piqued.” —School Library Journal View →
Can You Tell a Gecko from a Salamander?
“All three titles are filled with sharp, colorful photographs with engaging close-ups of special characteristics.” —School Library Journal View →
Escape from Planet Yastol
“This lightweight, lighthearted adventure will appeal to middle-grade science-fiction fans, particularly reluctant readers.” —School Library Journal View →
Tricky Rabbit Tales: Book 2
“There’s no shortage of excitement in these Choose-Your-Own-Adventure-style graphic novels…. For beefing up reluctant-reader offerings, these books are worth a look.” —School Library Journal View →
Say Something, Perico
“The upbeat ending and a personality-packed parrot will delight youngsters.” —School Library Journal View →
“The matter-of-fact tone used to describe animals eating and being eaten, as well as descriptions of desert life, brings the setting to life for children. The thick, off-white pages and small illustrations in muted colors create a pleasant individual reading experience. With its… View →
Iceberg, Right Ahead!: The Tragedy of the Titanic
“A comprehensive, well-written, thoroughly researched title.” —starred, School Library Journal View →
From Washboards to Washing Machines: How Homes Have Changed
“This visually dynamic series engages kids from the covers all the way through to the end with its vibrant colors and striking images.” —School Library Journal, Series Made Simple View →