First Night Howlergarten by Benson Shum
Sadly, I must start my review with a bit of bad news. Sorry folks, but August 2023 is when First Night Howlergarten will be out. However, I want to plug it now as it is FREAKING ADORALBE. And in the meantime, I will be keeping an eye out for more Benson Shum titles. This picture book has two things that I liked about it (a character who is not “over the top” and a slightly unique ending), but the whole package is enjoyable. We are […]
Lunch From Home by Joshua David Stein
Lunch From Home is based on the various authors experiences growing up. Ray (Garcia), Preeti (Mistry), Mina (Park) and Niki (Russ Federman) bring their favorite lunches to school, and since they are not the “usual sandwich” the other kids have, they are teased for their choices. Choices that truly represent them and their cultures. Of course, they go through the “I just want a sandwich for lunch” until they decide that they will not be ashamed and celebrate what makes them unique. These four children […]
Spy School the Graphic Novel by Stuart Gibbs
Spy School the Graphic Novel is based from the Stuart Gibbs series of the same name. This is a modern take on the super spy but with all the classic elements. James Bond might have been smoother, but never as funny. Not having read the novels, I am not sure how they compare, but either graphic novel would be good for ages 10 and up. We follow a kid who is recruited for a special CIA run spy-creating school. Only he thinks it is a […]
The Guardian Test (Legends of Lotus Island #1) by Christina Soontornvat
If Harry Potter and Avatar the Last Airbender had a story together The Guardian Test (Legends of Lotus Island #1) by Christina Soontornvat would be the results. This is a simple and sweet magical coming of age story. We know the plot, but not how things will unfold exactly. It is not overly packed with surprises, but the aged aimed at reader will be wondering what happens next. Kevin Hong will be the illustrator of this aged eight and up (solo read) novel, but probably […]
I Survived the Children’s Blizzard, 1888 (I Survived, #16) by Lauren Tarshis
cbr14bingo Cold Level 1 & 2 (Images taken from online) I Survived the Children’s Blizzard, 1888 (I Survived, #16) by Lauren Tarshis is an easy read for stronger readers but could capture some reluctant readers with the boy narrator and the adventure of the blizzard. The ages could start as young as six or seven for the more advanced reader, as there is little in the way of content that could be considered “too much” (I am sure cartoons and movies today have […]
In the Beautiful Country by Jane Kuo
cbr14bingo Dough Level 2 In the Beautiful Country is a cute story told in verse that shows the ugly of the world, but also the hope that can come from it. The year between 1980 and 1981 of Anna’s life is relatable, powerful and a look into “The Beautiful Country” and the American Dream it promotes but does not always make it easy to obtain. When Anna’s parents announce on Lunar New Year they are moving to The Beautiful Country (America), their family thinks them […]
