| J vs. K by Kwame Alexander and Jerry CraftThe friendly trash talk between two Newbery Award-winning authors gets a funny, fictional twist in this story about cartoonist J and poet K, two rival fifth-graders each determined to win their school’s storytelling contest. This graphic novel hybrid offers plenty of jokes alongside useful advice for young artists and authors. Read-alike: The Cartoonists Club by Raina Telgemeier and Scott McCloud. (Ages 8-12.) |
|
| Return to Sender by Vera BrosgolWhile grieving his father and failing to fit in with his ultra-rich new classmates, ten-year-old foodie Oliver makes a life-changing discovery: a mysterious mail slot that grants wishes! Filled with dark humor and vivid illustrations, this tale of magic -- and consequences -- will stick with you after the final page. (Ages 8-12.) |
|
| Don't Cause Trouble by Arree ChungMing Lee was hoping for a fresh start in middle school, but he is as desperately uncool as always – not to mention stuck in ESL even though he only speaks English. How’s he supposed to stick up for himself when his parents’ biggest rule is to keep out of trouble? This colorful graphic novel offers a relatable story inspired by the author’s real life. (Ages 9-13.) |
|
| At Last She Stood: How Joey Guerrero Spied, Survived, and Fought for Freedom by Erin Entrada KellyPopular, award-winning author Erin Entrada Kelly branches into nonfiction with this book about the heroic yet little-known Josefina "Joey" Guerrero. As a young Filipina during World War II, Joey spied for the Allies, only to face another battle: fighting for fair treatment as a person with Hansen’s disease. For fans of: Steve Sheinkin, Candace Fleming, and other authors of high-stakes true stories. (Ages 9-13.) |
|
| Maeve Mulvaney Has Had Enough by Kelly ManganStarting 8th grade in “Nowhereville,” Florida, outspoken newcomer Maeve is bullied for everything from her weight to her love of comic books. She’s not going to take it quietly, though -- not when she’s got art skills and allies. If you like sarcastic characters and authentically messy feelings, don’t miss this realistic read. (Ages 10-13.) |
|
| Spirit Service by Sarena and Sasha NanuaAfter getting zapped by an unusual old rotary phone, middle school friends Raveena, Aiko, Blair, and Lillian suddenly gain the ability to talk to spirits -- and there are a lot of spirits in their eccentric hometown. Combining the upbeat friendships of The Baby-Sitters Club with creepy paranormal events, this series starter will grab lots of different readers. (Ages 8-12.) |
|
| El Niño by Pam Muñoz Ryan; illustrated by Joe CepedaTwo years ago, Kai’s sister Cali, a champion swimmer, disappeared in the Pacific Ocean. Now, grieving and struggling to live up to Cali’s legacy, eighth-grader Kai becomes obsessed with the legendary undersea queen Califia. Blending mythology with reality, this illustrated tale will appeal to readers who love outside-the-box storytelling. Read-alike: Secrets We Tell the Sea by Martha Riva Palacio Obón. (Ages 8-13.) |
|
| Band Nerd by Sarah Clawson Willis; illustrated by Emma CormarieSeventh grade at Windley School of the Arts isn’t easy for Lucy, and her dad’s out-of-control drinking makes things difficult at home, too. Still, Lucy’s decided that she will win first-chair flute, no matter what. Clean-lined artwork keeps the focus on emotions in this moving graphic novel. (Ages 9-13.) |
|
Contact your librarian for more great books!
|
|
|