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Pahua and the Soul Stealer
by Lori M. Lee
What it is: a unique blend of fantasy, horror, and Hmong folklore
Featuring: Pahua, an 11-year-old who can see spirits; Zhong, a shaman in training; and Miv, the talking cat spirit always by Pahua’s side.
Reviewers say: “A classic, satisfying adventure tale packed with magical beings” (Kirkus Reviews).
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| The Outlaws Scarlett and Browne by Jonathan StroudWelcome to: flood-covered future Britain, where water monsters, cannibalistic mutants, and controlling rulers make life dangerous, especially for renegades like bank robber Scarlett McCain.
What happens: After Scarlett pulls Albert Browne from the wreckage of an accident, the new allies find themselves on the run from relentless, bowler-hatted pursuers.
Author alert: If you loved author Jonathan Stroud's Lockwood & Co. series, you don't want to miss the breathless action and quick-fire banter in this new series opener. |
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| The Troubled Girls of Dragomir Academy by Anne UrsuWhat it's about: Accused of ruining her brother's audition with Illyria's all-male Sorcerer's Guild, 12-year-old Marya is sent to the Dragomir Academy, a boarding school to keep unruly girls in line.
Who it's for: fantasy fans will enjoy the eerie, fascinating world of Illyria, while mystery fans will be drawn into curious Marya's discoveries about girls' magical potential -- and the Academy's hidden purpose. |
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| Dust & Grim by Chuck WendigWhat it's about: Newly orphaned, 13-year-old cosplayer Molly Grim goes to live with her long-separated older brother Dustin, who runs their family's highly unusual business: a funeral home for monsters.
Featuring: talking wolves, a magic devourer, an unpredictable fox spirit, a chill vampire, and many other creatures (both friendly and frightening).
Why you might like it: humor, horror, and the growing bond between rival siblings drive this offbeat story. |
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| The Line Tender by Kate AllenStarring: twelve-year-old Lucy, who inherited a fascination with sharks from her late mother, a marine biologist.
What happens: After a second tragic loss leaves Lucy devastated, her summer project -- an illustrated field guide to her coastal hometown -- becomes her lifeline.
Who it’s for: anyone looking for sensitive, honest stories about finding hope during tough times. |
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If I Ever Get Out of Here
by Eric L. Gansworth
Historical Fiction. As the only Native American kid in the gifted program at a mostly white school, seventh-grader Lewis Blake feels like he may as well be from a different planet. He's just about given up hope of making friends when he and new student George connect over their shared love of the Beatles. Still, Lewis is afraid that he can never be honest with George about his messed up family and their life on the poverty-stricken reservation. Set in 1975 against a backdrop of classic rock (there's even a playlist included), If I Ever Get Out of Here is an unhurried, authentic story of unlikely friendship.
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Diary of a Waitress: The Not-So-Glamorous Life of a Harvey Girl
by Carolyn Meyer
Historical Fiction. In 1926, droves of Americans traveled by train across the United States to visit the West. They ate at Harvey Houses, where thousands of well–trained waitresses provided first–class service. Diary of a Waitress tells the story of Kitty Evans, as she faces the often funny and painful experiences she and fellow waitresses Cordelia and Emmy endure. As Kitty writes about her escapades, she embraces adventure, independence, her position as a Harvey Girl, and a freelance writing career. This fast-paced novel brings together an unforgettable heroine with the universal themes of friendship, identity, and young love.
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Spy Runner
by Eugene Yelchin
What it’s about: It’s 1953 in the U.S., and 12-year-old Jack’s suspicion that his mom’s new tenant might be a Russian spy kicks off an adventure just as dangerous as those of Spy Runner, Jack’s favorite comic book hero.
Why you might like it: Fascinating photos and tons of twists will keep you guessing throughout this historical thriller.
Try this next: Avi’s Catch You Later, Traitor, another suspenseful story set during the height of the anti-Communist “Red Scare.”
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Contact your librarian for more great books for ages 10-13!
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Michigan City Public Library 100 E. 4th Street Michigan City, Indiana 46360 219-873-3044mclib.org/ |
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