BLACK, Holly. The Coldest Girl in Coldtown. Little, Brown. 2013. ISBN 9780316213103. JLG Level: CTH : Current Trends High (Gr 9 & Up).

Tana’s complex life changes abruptly after a sundown party where a window is opened. Someone should have known better. Coldtown has kept vampires and the infected inside their walls, so attacks occur far less often. This time it is different. Everyone is dead except for Tana, and her escape from the vampires may have infected her. Her ex-boyfriend is seriously infected, but the teen’s past experience drives her to try to save him. A chained vampire comes along for the ride. Can she get to Coldtown before it’s too late? She doesn’t want to be a vampire, but will she have any choice? Black writes with just enough humor to keep a dark and oft-told tale fresh and entertaining.

CRUTCHER, Chris. Period.8. Greenwillow. 2013. ISBN 9780061914812. JLG Level: HI : High-Interest High School (Gr 10 & up).

Lots of kids have study halls―classes where you can do homework, eat lunch, or take a nap. Mr. Logs runs Period 8 like Las Vegas. Kids can talk about whatever they like― what happens there, stays there. When Paulie tells Hannah he had sex with another girl, it becomes class discussion. In her anger, Hannah refuses to listen to his explanation. Then a classmate goes missing. The connection between the two events becomes clearer when Paulie realizes that not everyone in Period 8 is telling the truth. Someone is lying. Kids are in trouble, and they are all in danger. In classic Crutcher-style, realistic teen issues drive a gripping plot with a staggering conclusion.

FARMER, Nancy. The Lord of Opium. S & S/Atheneum. 2013. ISBN 9781442482548. JLG Level: FH : Fantasy/Science Fiction High (Gr 9-12)

Matt never expected to live forever; he was cloned for spare parts for El Patron. With the death of his master, he inherits all possessions and becomes the drug lord of the Land of Opium at age fourteen. With power comes responsibility. Matt sees the opportunity to use his authority to investigate genetic experiments and perhaps end the inhumane treatment of microchipped slaves. His country also has a biosphere with animals long extinct, and scientists who could potentially save the world. However, the Dope Confederacy that surrounds his country is hungry for his resources, while the United Nations has its own agenda. Can he avoid an invasion from enemies outside Opium while struggling with adversaries within?  What must he sacrifice towards the goal of saving them all? Farmer’s sequel to The House of the Scorpion (S & S, 2002) delves further into ethical issues of scientific research and moral treatment of those in servitude.

SHUSTERMAN, Neal. Ship Out of Luck. Dutton. 2013. ISBN 9780525422266. JLG Level: Y : Young Adults (Gr 9 & up).

Antsy is back (Antsy Does Time, 2008) and more entertaining than ever. The Bonano family joins Old Man Crawley for a Caribbean cruise to celebrate his eightieth birthday―”a suitable gift is expected.” Before the ship even leaves the dock, Antsy finds himself in a dilemma―help a cute girl named Tilde who is involved in criminal activities or take a chance that she might blow the whistle on his own less-than-ethical deeds. In his quandary, Antsy leaves the details to Tilde, who takes him into Hello-Hello, which according to his cabbie means “Hell of Hells. It’s the place you drop through de bottom of all de other places.” It is a destination where you pay for both ways before you drive anywhere. Spending time with a stowaway who has a political agenda may not be what Antsy expected for his all-expenses-paid vacation. What transpires will be life-changing, and not just for him. A hilarious romp that will have readers laughing out loud.

For audio/video versions of these booktalks, please visit JLG’s Shelf Life Blog.

Junior Library Guild is a collection development service that helps school and public libraries acquire the best new children’s and young adult books. Season after season, year after year, Junior Library Guild book selections go on to win awards, collect starred or favorable reviews, and earn industry honors. Visit us at www.JuniorLibraryGuild.com.

CHOLDENKO, Gennifer. Al Capone Does My Homework. Dial. 2013. ISBN 9780803734722. JLG Level: C : Advanced Readers (Grades 6–9).

Moose Flanagan’s dad has been promoted to associate warden at Alcatraz, but inmates and colleagues have their own ideas about how to handle the new boss. A prisoner earns five points for spitting on a warden and 5,000 points for killing him. To make it worse, Guard Darby Trixle is angry about being overlooked for the promotion. Piper, whose father is the head warden, tells Moose to watch his dad’s back. However, his hands are already full keeping an eye on his autistic older sister, Natalie. When their apartment catches on fire, Natalie is blamed. It’s up to Moose and his friends to solve the mystery of the blaze, but the investigation puts them close to prisoners who want Warden Flanagan dead. When a butcher knife goes missing from the kitchen, not even Capone can control what follows. Choldenko’s conclusion to the trilogy will make readers laugh and hold their breath.

FFORDE, Jasper. The Song of the Quarkbeast. Houghton Harcourt. Sept. 2013. ISBN 9780547738482. JLG Level: FM : Fantasy/Science Fiction Middle (Grades 5–8).

As acting manager of Kazam, foundling Jennifer Strange must accept (and win) King Snodd IV’s challenge―a contest of wizards. Losing would endanger Zambini Towers and its inhabitants and compromise the use of magic throughout the kingdom. Enchanting a new bridge is no small task, and their best sorceress has just turned herself into stone. The power-hungry king (who would control all magic if his Court Mystician wins) puts competing wizards in prison, leaving Jennifer with few resources. As time runs out, the remaining few must work together to save the kingdom from evil plans far beyond the obvious. Full of surprises and intrigue, Fforde’s sequel to The Last Dragonslayer (Houghton Harcourt, 2012) keeps readers on the edge of their seats in the race to conquer evil.

HADDIX, Margaret Peterson. Risked. S & S. Sept. 2013. ISBN 9781416989844. JLG Level: C+ : Advanced Readers (Grades 6–9).

Once again, Jonah, Chip, and Katherine travel to the past―though this time against their will. A rogue missing child joins forces with their money-scheming enemies and takes them to Russia in 1918―the day before the royal family is assassinated. Two of the children were missing for years; however, recent discoveries prove that Alexis and Anastasia were killed with their siblings. If that is the case, can Jonah and his friends save them from being killed again? How will saving the entire family affect history? In the sixth book of the Missing series, Haddix explores one of the most fascinating mysteries of our past.

WHITE, Ruth. The Treasure of Way Down Deep. Farrar/Margaret Ferguson. 2013. ISBN 9780374380670. JLG Level: B+ : Upper Elementary & Junior High (Grades 5–7).

Life in Way Down Deep has always been a community affair―everyone attends all events (no formal invitations needed) and secrets are rare. When an evil wind blows into town in the fall of 1954, hardship hits local businesses and mine workers in the West Virginia town are laid off. Who would have thought that the death of a pet goat and a sleepwalking old lady would help reveal the one secret that everyone wants to know―the location of the treasure of Way Down Deep. It’s up to Ruby to save the town, while proving the town’s founder myth to be true. White’s sequel to Way Down Deep (Farrar, 2011) brings the return of the charming residents of the small country town, and a character one can’t help but love.

For audio/video versions of these booktalks, please visit JLG’s Shelf Life Blog.

Junior Library Guild is a collection development service that helps school and public libraries acquire the best new children’s and young adult books. Season after season, year after year, Junior Library Guild book selections go on to win awards, collect starred or favorable reviews, and earn industry honors. Visit us at www.JuniorLibraryGuild.com.

ALMOND, David. The Boy Who Swam with Piranhas. illus. by Oliver Jeffers. Candlewick. 2013. ISBN 9780763661694. JLG Level: A : Intermediate Readers (Grades 3–5).

Stanley’s uncle Ernie becomes obsessed with canning fish. After a shocking demise to twelve of his pet goldfish, Stanley takes the last surviving one and goes for a walk that leads him to run away with the fair. His new family comes with an encouraging father-figure and an angry young girl. Putting his good heart to use, the orphan finds a way to protect the fish at his Hook-a-Duck booth, quiet the heart of his companion, and accept his dangerous destiny. Not every child could be a boy who swims with piranhas. Add a prejudiced policeman, a madcap group of “DAFT envistigators,” with a loving couple who miss their precious nephew and you have a charming novel about a boy who blossoms while changing everyone around him.

FLEMING, David. The Saturday Boy. Viking. 2013. ISBN 9780670785513. JLG Level: B+ : Upper Elementary & Junior High (Grades 5–7).

Life without your dad is difficult for Derek, a fifth grade boy, whose father is stationed in Afghanistan. He has letters and comic books for support, but those things don’t prevent him from getting in trouble at school. His former friend Budgie bullies him, and he’s frequently caught when his anger gets the best of him. Getting a part in a school play gives Derek a creative outlet. Being the “bigger person,” as his mom advises, is so hard. When his mom withdraws into grief, he doesn’t understand why, and his cool aunt moves in to help out. Derek accidentally learns the source of his mother’s depression. Sending letters to his dad won’t help him this time. Fleming’s first novel keeps readers tense with anticipation, while drawing them close to a boy who just can’t seem to get a break.

VAWTER, Vince. Paperboy. Delacorte. 2013. ISBN9780375990588. JLG Level:  C+ : Advanced Readers (Grades 6–9).

In the late 1950s, a stuttering eleven-year-old boy has life-changing experiences while substituting on a paper route for his best friend. Mam, his nanny, warns him to stay away from Ara T, the neighborhood junkman, but he gives him his knife to sharpen anyway. He’ll need it to cut the string on the paper bundle. Collecting subscription money will also be a problem when Little Man will have to say words that he finds difficult to say, even if he uses his therapist’s speaking tricks. Miss Worthington’s beauty makes him want to try. The Boy Who Sits in Front of the TV just makes him angry. Mr. Spiro is one of two adults who speak to him like a grown-up. Little Man could learn a great deal from him and his books. A month of delivering papers gives him an opportunity to think beyond his problems and try to find ways to help these new people, even if it’s outside of his comfort zone. Vawter’s unforgettable first novel is more memoir than fiction, illustrating that though you may not be able to cure a stutter, you can certainly overcome it.

For audio/video versions of these booktalks, please visit JLG’s Shelf Life Blog.

Junior Library Guild is a collection development service that helps school and public libraries acquire the best new children’s and young adult books. Season after season, year after year, Junior Library Guild book selections go on to win awards, collect starred or favorable reviews, and earn industry honors. Visit us at www.JuniorLibraryGuild.com.

CREECH, Sharon. The Boy on the Porch. Harper/Joanna Cotler Bks. Sept. 2013. ISBN 9780061892370. JLG Level: A : Intermediate Readers (Grades 3–5).

What kind of person would leave their child with strangers? Especially a child who doesn’t speak? Finding a young boy sleeping on their porch causes a young couple to open their home and later their hearts. They have no idea how he got there, just that someone would be back for him. Quickly becoming part of the family, Jacob rides the cow, runs with the beagle, and relaxes into a happy routine. All too soon, an unfamiliar car arrives to take the child away. His father has come for him. Feeling the hole that Jacob leaves, the husband and wife search for ways to fill it. Can they find happiness again? What will happen to the boy on the porch? Creech fans expecting a heart-wrenching story will not be disappointed.

DiCAMILLO, Kate. Flora & Ulysses. illus. by K. G. Campbell. Candlewick. Sept. 2013. ISBN 9780763660406. JLG Level: A+ : Intermediate Readers (Grades 3–5).

Flora Belle Buckman is a natural born cynic. She also loves comics and reads them until her mother, a romance novelist, writes a contract requiring Flora to “turn her face…toward the bright light of true literature.” When the lady next door accidently vacuums an unassuming squirrel, Flora springs to the rescue and learns that he has acquired super powers. Able to lift the heavy Ulysses vacuum and seemingly now able to communicate, newly-named Ulysses begins a journey that will impact every person he meets. Whether he saves lives or merely types a poem, the squirrel will delight readers. His supporting cast is unique and charming, exactly what one would anticipate from the author of The Tale of Despereaux. (Candlewick, 2006)

DONOVAN, Gail. The Waffler. Dial. Aug. 2013. ISBN 9780803739208. JLG Level: A+ : Intermediate Readers (Grades 3–5).

Eating a waffle is a fine thing. Being a waffler (a person who can’t make a decision) is not. Even though he would like to change, Monty has a hard time making up his mind. When the principal accuses him of waffling, he gets a new nickname: Waffles. Complicating matters is the annual reading buddy program. He is assigned to a kindergarten boy named Leo, but later learns that some kids don’t get to participate because they have special services during that time. Deciding it’s not fair, he makes them his “unofficial” partners, reading to them at recess. Just before the culminating event, Leo has to move. Mrs. Tuttle tells Monty he has to decide which of his three unofficial partners will be his new buddy, but how can anyone decide about something like that? Donovan’s new school story has plenty of humor and thought-provoking situations.

LUBAR, David. Numbed. Millbrook. Oct. 2013. ISBN 9781467705943. JLG Level: A+ : Intermediate Readers (Grades 3–5).

Fans of Punished (Darby Creek, 2007) and lovers of math will be thrilled to discover Lubar’s new sequel, Numbed. Logan is supposed to keep Benedict out of trouble when his sixth grade class visits the Mobius Mathematics Museum. Discovering a number-crunching robot, Benedict flips the switch and argues with the mechanical device. “Numbers are stupid,” he shouts. Then the robot speaks in a low voice, calm and scary, “You are wrong about numbers. You must be numbed.” The boys soon learn that numbers are integrated into their lives, and without them, they are in big trouble. Solving math problems under time pressure is the only way to reverse their inability to calculate even the simplest equations.

For audio/video versions of these booktalks, please visit JLG’s Shelf Life Blog.

Junior Library Guild is a collection development service that helps school and public libraries acquire the best new children’s and young adult books. Season after season, year after year, Junior Library Guild book selections go on to win awards, collect starred or favorable reviews, and earn industry honors. Visit us at www.JuniorLibraryGuild.com.

FLEMING, Candace. Papa’s Mechanical Fish. illus. by Boris Kulikov. Farrar/Margaret Ferguson. 2013. ISBN 9780374399085. JLG Level: E : Easy Reading (Grades 1-3).

“If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again” goes the well-known saying. Papa was an inventor, so he made a mechanical fish. It sunk. He added a fin and propeller. It almost worked, so he added a steering wheel and protected the surface with copper. Papa’s inspirations for improvement come from the fish themselves (and a little prodding from his daughter). How do fish know where they’re going? Papa adds portholes. Will his invention ever work well enough for use in war or transportation? Fleming’s inspirational tale of little-known inventor, Lodner Phillips, presents a creative mind that continued to think, whether he was immediately successful or not.

HEILIGMAN, Deborah. The Boy Who Loved Math: The Improbable Life of Paul Erdös. illus. by LeUyen Pham. Roaring Brook. 2013. ISBN 9781596433076. JLG Level: BE : Biography Elementary (Grades 2–6).

Paul loved math more than anything. He counted and subtracted all day. Between his mother’s over-protectiveness and his obsession with equations, the young boy never learned to do things for himself. When he was 21, his work took him to places where he was alone. Another mathematician would take him home, wash his clothes, provide his meals, and pay his bills. Shouting “my brain is open,” Paul would announce that he was ready to do calculations early in the morning. His personal quirks were tolerated by friends and colleagues who loved him anyway. Heiligman’s picture book biography of an eccentric genius reveals a man who was good at his job and was willing to share his talents with others.

MARKEL, Michelle. Brave Girl: Clara and the Shirtwaist Makers’ Strike of 1909. illus. by Melissa Sweet. HarperCollins/Balzer + Bray. 2013. ISBN 9780061804427. JLG Level:  NE : Nonfiction Elementary (Grades 2–6).

Typical examples of leaders in American history include figures like George Washington or Benjamin Franklin. Clara was a five-foot-tall, nineteen-year-old girl when she took a stand for thousands of garment industry workers to strike for the improvement of their working conditions and benefits. If a worker bled twice on her cloth, she could lose her job. If she were a few minutes late to work, she could lose half a day’s pay. Working under unbelievable conditions (two toilets and one sink for 300 hundred girls), these teenagers made women’s clothing instead of getting an education. Clara was determined to improve things, so she took a stand. Though beaten and arrested 17 times, the immigrant seamstress dared to challenge the establishment and make a difference for those around her and the workers yet to come. Sweet’s brilliant collage and watercolor illustrations weave Markel’s words into an inspirational story of fighting for equality.

ROCHE, Suzzy. Want to Be in a Band? illus. by Giselle Porter. Random/Schwartz & Wade. 2013. ISBN9780375968792. JLG Level: E+ : Easy Reading (Grades 1–3).

What does it take to start a band? A little sister can ask her two older siblings. Then they can teach her everything they know. A new musician’s fingers may tire while playing the guitar, but practice is important. Performing for others may give a novice stage fright, but playing for her parents is a baby step in the right direction. After the band chooses a name, they can have a public performance. Maybe it will lead to a gig in a club, but the sisters shouldn’t worry if it’s not a big-time appearance. Based on her own experiences, folk-indie rock band The Roches, the author’s advice continues as she encourages budding musicians in the process of starting a band.

SAY, Allen. The Favorite Daughter. Scholastic/Arthur A. Levine. 2013. ISBN 9780545176620. JLG Level: CE : City Elementary (Grades 2–6).

Yuriko is upset when her Japanese name is mispronounced at school. Even her teacher calls her “Eureka.” As the teasing continues, she decides she wants an American name. Her wise and patient father goes along with her wishes and takes his “new” daughter, Michelle, to a Japanese garden in San Francisco. While looking for a souvenir with her name on it, they see a Japanese ink painting artist. After learning her real name, he paints a lily and uses traditional characters to write it out. She’s delighted with her special remembrance and decides to learn to paint it too. On their trip to the Golden Gate Bridge, father and daughter are disappointed to see it buried in fog. He encourages the youngster to use her imagination to recreate the bridge for her school project. Her father points out that she wants an ordinary name, but something different from everyone else for her artwork. Perhaps he’s given her more to think about than a school assignment. Say’s illustrations accompany the thought-provoking dialogue.

Junior Library Guild is a collection development service that helps school and public libraries acquire the best new children’s and young adult books. Season after season, year after year, Junior Library Guild book selections go on to win awards, collect starred or favorable reviews, and earn industry honors. Visit us at www.JuniorLibraryGuild.com.

BERNE, Jennifer. On a Beam of Light: A Story of Albert Einstein. illus. by Vladimir Radunsky. Chronicle. 2013. ISBN 9780811872355. JLG Level: BE : Biography Elementary (Grades 2–6).

As a child, Albert Einstein never had much to say until the day his father gave him a compass. “Suddenly he knew there were mysteries in the world―hidden and silent, unknown and unseen.” His desire to know consumed him. Teachers told him he would amount to nothing if he continued to disrupt the class with his endless questions. He would spend the rest of his life looking for answers―”wondering, imagining, figuring, and thinking.” His discoveries unlocked many puzzles of the universe, while leaving future scientists with questions that they can solve. Radunsky’s loose illustrations are as charming as Einstein himself.

BRYANT, Jen. A Splash of Red: The Life and Art of Horace Pippin. illus. by Melissa Sweet. Knopf. 2013. ISBN 9780375967122. JLG Level: BE : Biography Elementary (Grades 2–6).

Horace had big hands, but his grandma told him, “the biggest part of you is inside, where no one can see.” He used those hands to help his family―sorting laundry, running errands for his mom, and gathering wood for the stove. When he had time, he loved to draw. At school, if a picture came into his mind, he would tell his “heart to go ahead.” His classmates loved his pictures, but some of his teachers did not. In eighth grade, Horace had to quit his studies because his family needed him to work. Horace drew for the other workers. When the opportunity to fight for his country arose, Horace enlisted. Even in the trenches of combat, he continued to draw until the day a bullet wounded his shoulder. He couldn’t lift his arm. The pictures kept coming to his mind, but how could he paint them now? Read how Pippin became a world-renowned folk artist despite many obstacles.

PINBOROUGH, Jan. Miss Moore Thought Otherwise: How Anne Carroll Moore Created Libraries for Children. illus. by Debby Atwell. Houghton Harcourt. 2013. ISBN 9780547471051. JLG Level: BE : Biography Elementary (Grades 2–6).

When Anne was a little girl in the early 1870s, children weren’t allowed to go to libraries. Librarians thought children would lose or ruin the books. Anne thought otherwise, so she grew up to be a librarian. She got her first job at Pratt Free Library, where children could check out books and have stories read to them, just as her father read to her. News about the children’s library spread until she became the head of children’s sections in all thirty-six branches of the New York Public Library. She visited all of the branches, offering ideas to create better spaces for the young readers. Then, plans were announced to build the biggest and best library of all―right in the middle of New York City. How could she make it a wonderful space for children? Pinborough’s picture book biography is the inspiring narrative of a strong woman whose passion for children’s library services influenced libraries across the country.

For strategies about how to use these books and links to supportive sites, check out the Junior Library Guild blog, Shelf Life.

Junior Library Guild is a collection development service that helps school and public libraries acquire the best new children’s and young adult books. Season after season, year after year, Junior Library Guild book selections go on to win awards, collect starred or favorable reviews, and earn industry honors. Visit us at www.JuniorLibraryGuild.com.

COLUMBUS, Chris and Ned Vizzini. House of Secrets. illus. by Greg Call. HarperCollins/Balzer + Bray. 2013. ISBN 9780062192462. JLG Level: FM : Fantasy/Science Fiction Middle (Grades 5–8).

From the director of the first “Harry Potter” films in collaboration with a bestselling YA author, comes a new fantasy that even J. K. Rowling calls, “a breakneck roller coaster of an adventure.” Dr. Walker remembers falling asleep in the hospital, but he wakes up standing over a patient, holding a bloody scalpel. He has carved a symbol into the man’s stomach. With the loss of his job, the family must move to a less expensive home. The Kristoff House, owned by an occult novelist, seems too good to be true―a fully furnished, two-story mansion with views of the Golden Gate Bridge. Eldest son Brenden is sure that he sees the creepy old lady next door spying on them. Too late, the family realizes that they are in grave danger. Screeching that she wants revenge for her father, Dahlia Kristoff reveals her true identity―the Wind Witch. The children’s parents are struck down, the house shakes, and when the chaos is over, a primitive forest now lies outside their door. Will they have to conspire with the Wind Witch? Can they defeat her? How will the children get home? Pirates, enormous pre-historic creatures, and a cowboy meld with magical characters in a fantasy novel with nonstop action.

FERRIS, Jean. Thrice Upon a Marigold. Houghton Harcourt. 2013. ISBN 9780547738468. JLG Level: B+ : Upper Elementary & Junior High (Grades 5–7).

In the kingdom of Zandelphia-Beauridge, a new princess is born―Princess Poppy Allegra April Rosemary. A Welcome Party will introduce her to the empire, but past events lead King Christian and Queen Marigold to worry that well-meaning fairy wishes could put Princess Poppy in danger. Phoebe, daughter of the exiled torturer-in-chief, and Sebastian, son of exiled poisoner-in-chief, stumble on an evil kidnapping plot. When they lose the evidence, they must find another way to convince the royal family of their loyalty. With the aid of an elephant and a dragon, the pair of rescuers will unite with the King and Queen to fight against none other than their own fathers. The third installment of the series continues the wit and pace of a fairy tale with no boundaries.

FISHER, Catherine. Obsidian Mirror. Dial. 2013. ISBN 9780803739697. JLG Level: FM : Fantasy/Science Fiction Middle (Grades 5–8).

In the first of a new trilogy, Fisher sends readers to the past, where magic lurks and possibilities seem infinite. A scientific invention―the obsidian mirror, takes travelers through time, but no one is able to control its powers. A son leaves school to track down the man who murdered his father. The widower who owns it fights desperately to repair the mirror, so that he can be reunited with his beloved. A mysterious runaway volunteers to be the test subject, even though she is aware of the danger. Magical creatures live in the woods nearby, though their connection to the strange house and its inhabitants remains a mystery. The mirror unites them all and no one knows what the future really holds. Dark and suspenseful, Fisher’s characters weave in and out of the tapestrylike plot, leaving readers spellbound.

LERANGIS, Peter. The Colossus Rises: Seven Wonders Book 1. illus. by Mike Reagan. HarperCollins. 2013. ISBN 978006207040. JLG Level: FM : Fantasy/Science Fiction Middle (Grades 5–8).

“On the morning I was scheduled to die, a large barefoot man with a bushy red beard waddled past my house.” So begins the first adventure of Jack McKinley―hero elect who learns he has inherited a gene that gives him powers that could also kill him if he doesn’t get treatment. Finding the seven Loculi with others who have the same genetic trait is their only chance for survival. The first missing Loculus, however, is in a lost world―the city of Atlantis. Professor Bhegad provides training and direction, but it’s up to him and his companions to survive an adventure in which they scale a cliff, fight a griffin, and find a life-saving waterfall. Fans of Rick Riordan will welcome this new seven-book series that blends adventure, magic, and the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World into a fast-paced quest.

MULL, Brandon. Chasing the Prophecy: Beyonders. S & S/Aladdin. 2013. ISBN 9781416997962. JLG Level: FM : Fantasy/Science Fiction Middle (Grades 5–8).

In the thrilling conclusion to the Beyonders, the heroes follow the oracle’s prophecy, splitting into teams to defeat the evil emperor, Maldor. Jason and Rachel are not Lyrians, but time spent in their world teaches them about the power of friendship and good versus evil. The final battle is upon them, and the glimmer of victory is dim. Galloran, the Blind King, claims his throne and leads his people in a fight that could end their lives. Characters who can exchange body parts and drinlings who need no rest join with Rachel who has learned to control a person’s body through her mind. Jason has a powerful sword that he must learn to use if they are to beat Maldor. The evil emperor has his own support army―lurkers who can invade your dreams and learn your secrets. Will their plan be sabotaged in one incident? Do they have to sacrifice everything to gain freedom for the citizens of Lyrian? Though the series ends with this tome, fans will wait eagerly for future tales in this fantastical world.

For strategies about how to use these books and links to supportive sites, check out the Junior Library Guild blog, Shelf Life.

Junior Library Guild is a collection development service that helps school and public libraries acquire the best new children’s and young adult books. Season after season, year after year, Junior Library Guild book selections go on to win awards, collect starred or favorable reviews, and earn industry honors. Visit us at www.JuniorLibraryGuild.com.

PETT, Mark. The Boy and the Airplane. S & S. 2013. ISBN 9781442451230. JLG Level: P+ : Primary (Grades K–1).

Letting his imagination soar, a little boy flies his new red airplane around his yard until it lands on the roof. Because he is unwilling to end the fun, he gets a ladder to retrieve the lost toy. Sadly, he’s not quite tall enough to reach it. Maybe he could use his cowboy lasso? If he were a fireman, his hose could knock it down. Nothing works, but he is determined to rescue his treasure. When a seed pod falls from a tree, he gets the beginnings of an idea. Will it work? Does he have the patience to wait for his plan to take root?

A timeless tale, Pett’s universal story is told in large and small panels of vintage-colored paper and watercolor. Careful readers will latch on to the circular narrative that begs to be reread.

RUNTON, Andy. Owly & Wormy: Bright Lights and Starry Nights. S & S/Atheneum. 2012. ISBN 9781416957751. JLG Level: P+ : Primary (Grades K–1).

Mostly wordless (with the exception of sound effects), Owly and Wormy have an adventure during a scary camping trip. Unable to see the stars in their telescope, they determine that a night away from city lights might just do the trick. When rain drives them into a dark cave, the sound of “clickity click click” and the beam of glowing eyes sends them running for safer cover. Finally ready to set up camp, they realize they lost the telescope. Wormy volunteers to stand guard while Owly searches for their tool. In the dark of the woods, he gets lost and the sounds of “clickity click click” frighten him . What is following him? What will he do? Will he find his way?

In comic book-style with dark illustrations and speech thought bubbles, Runton presents another adventure for his readers, with enough mystery and suspense to inspire their imaginations.

SULLIVAN, Mary. Ball. Houghton Harcourt. 2013. ISBN 9780547759364. JLG Level: P : Primary (Grades K–1).

From the moment he wakes up, the dog can only think of one word: “ball.” His little girl is happy to comply and throws the ball over and over while she dresses for school. Panic grips his face when she leaves. What will he do now? How can he play with his ball? Mom is busy doing yoga. Baby just cries. A hissing kitty has no interest at all. Maybe a little nap with his toy will help pass the time? Will his dreams keep him busy with more adventures?

A small palette of digitally colored pencil drawings in comic book-style panels keeps the reader’s eye moving across the page. Even children without their own dogs will laugh at the antics of the over-zealous canine.

For strategies about how to use these books and links to supportive sites, check out the Junior Library Guild blog, Shelf Life.

Junior Library Guild is a collection development service that helps school and public libraries acquire the best new children’s and young adult books. Season after season, year after year, Junior Library Guild book selections go on to win awards, collect starred or favorable reviews, and earn industry honors. Visit us at www.JuniorLibraryGuild.com.

KAPLAN, Michael B. Betty Bunny Didn’t Do It. illus. by Stéphane Jorisch. Dial. 2013. ISBN 9780803738584. JLG Level: P+ : Primary (Grades K–1).

Since everyone is too busy to play with her, Betty Bunny is quite capable of getting into trouble all by herself. “Oops,” says the young handful when she breaks a lamp. Afraid to tell the truth, she tells her siblings, “I didn’t do it.” She proceeds to explain how the Tooth Fairy threw a big bag of baby teeth, sending the lamp crashing to the floor. Blaming someone else for her mistake seems like a brilliant idea. “Why didn’t I think of it before?” Brother Henry promptly tells his mother that she’s lying. Betty Bunny doesn’t quite understand that “lying is not okay.” What will it take to teach her the value of honesty? And when her truth-telling hurts someone’s feelings, how will she learn to temper her candidness?

A lovable character with realistic problems teams with humorous situations for a hilarious, but thought-provoking, read-aloud― just right for kids who may be afraid to tell the truth.

LEATHERS, Philippa. The Black Rabbit. Candlewick. 2013. ISBN 9780763657147. JLG Level: K : Kindergarten (Grades PreK–K).

Rabbit doesn’t know what to do. It’s a beautiful, sunlit day when he steps out of his burrow, but everywhere he goes the Black Rabbit follows him. When Rabbit moves, the Black Rabbit moves. If Rabbit stops, the Black Rabbit stops. “What do you want? Why are you following me?” cries Rabbit. But the Black Rabbit never answers. Running into the woods to escape, Rabbit notices two eyes staring out from the darkness. It is Wolf! Running faster than ever, Rabbit trips. Is it too late? Can Rabbit escape Wolf who’s chasing him or the Black Rabbit who keeps following him?

Short text and clever illustrations shine a light on fear of the unknown in this tale of the finding safety where you least expect it.

SNICKET, Lemony. The Dark. illus. by Jon Klassen. Little, Brown. 2013. ISBN 9780316187480. JLG Level: K : Kindergarten (Grades PreK–K).

What better team than Snicket and Klassen to explore a child’s most common fear―the dark. Laszlo is afraid of the dark that spends most of the day in the basement and creeps into every corner at night. Laszlo greets the dark every morning when it’s back in the basement where he belongs. His plan to keep it away from his room works until one night―when it doesn’t. “Laszlo, I want you to do something,” says the dark. They look in all the usual dark places until it brings the boy to the top of the basement stairs. What does the dark want to show him? Is Laszlo brave enough to follow the dark?

Brilliantly paced with lots of creepy black shadowing, read aloud time just got scarier. Perfect for the younger set who beg for a scary story, but safe enough to prevent nightmares.

STEIN, David Ezra. Ol’ Mama Squirrel. Penguin/Nancy Paulsen. 2013. ISBN 9780399256721. JLG Level: K : Kindergarten (Grades PreK–K).

“Ol’ Mama Squirrel had raised many babies. ‘Mark my words,’ she’d say. ‘There’s no shortage of creatures that would love to snack on a baby squirrel…but it won’t happen on my watch!’” Mama Squirrel seems to have everything under control. She chatters and scolds any threat of danger―whether it’s a predator or a kite. “And that takes care of that!” One afternoon a great, growling grizzly bear appears unafraid of her angry, “chook, chook, chook” chatter. She pelts him with last year’s nuts. The bear is shocked, but then he laughs. He climbs higher and higher while Ol’ Mama Squirrel begins to feel a touch of fear. What will she do? Will something bad happen on her watch?

Award-winning author/illustrator David Ezra Stein offers a story that roots for the underdog. And it’s a laugh a minute!

For strategies about how to use these books and links to supportive sites, check out the Junior Library Guild blog, Shelf Life.

Junior Library Guild is a collection development service that helps school and public libraries acquire the best new children’s and young adult books. Season after season, year after year, Junior Library Guild book selections go on to win awards, collect starred or favorable reviews, and earn industry honors. Visit us at www.JuniorLibraryGuild.com.

CHANTLER, Scott. The Captive Prince: Three Thieves. Bk. 3. Kids Can. 2012. ISBN 9781554537761. JLG Level: GM : Graphic Novels Middle (Grades 5-8)

Dessa’s experiences on the farm and on the circus have given her the skills she needs to rescue a captured prince, who quickly falls in love with her. A group of kidnappers with an agenda of their own, combined with Dessa and her companions’ secrets, offers a gripping tale of action and adventure. The third entry in this captivating series will keep readers salivating until its conclusion in the next book.

COLFER, Eoin. The Supernaturalist: The Graphic Novel. illus. by Giovanni Rigano. Disney/Hyperion. 2012. ISBN 9780786848799. JLG Level: GM : Graphic Novels Middle (Grades 5-8)

Based on the novel of the same name, Colfer teamed up with Andrew Donkin to adapt it for the graphic novel format. With art by Giovanni Rigano and color by Paolo Lamanna, Cosmo’s story is brought to life. After a childhood of being the object of horrible experiments, an accident allows Cosmo to escape a no-sponsor orphanage. He joins ranks with the Supernaturalists who have been saving the world from the attacks by parasites. Nothing, however, is quite what it seems.

Just as riveting as the original, The Supernaturalist is one life-saving mission after another―right up to the surprising conclusion.

GOWNLEY, Jimmy. Her Permanent Record. Vol. 8. (Amelia Rules! Series). S &S. 2012. ISBN 9781416986157. JLG Level: GM : Graphic Novels Middle (Grades 5-8)

Middle school comes with a multitude of problems and emotions, even for a superheroine. Amelia feels pressure from the cheerleading squad and the younger kids who want to be her protégés. And, of course, boys. When her Aunt Tanner disappears. Amelia and Rhonda decide to save the adult who has so often taken care of them.

Gownley has another hit with this title in the series. Not only will readers laugh, but they may need a tissue too.

HALE, Nathan. Hale’s Hazardous Tales: Big Bad Ironclad! Bk. 2. Amulet. 2012. ISBN 9781419703959. JLG Level: GM : Graphic Novels Middle (Grades 5-8)

In the second volume of Hale’s Hazardous Tales, American patriot Nathan Hale stalls his hanging by telling one more history tale. Our hero settles in to tell the tale of the Monitor and the Merrimack. Using humorous interjections, the graphic novel delivers Civil War history with a sense of mystery and action. Back matter includes short biographies of historical figures and notes on the author’s poetic license while writing the story. History delivered with wit and action makes this a wonderful package to use in any classroom.

HATKE, Ben. Legends of Zita the Spacegirl. First Second. 2012. ISBN 9781596438064. JLG Level: GE : Graphic Novels Elementary (Grades 2-6)

With fame comes responsibility. Zita’s past precedes her and fans flock for her autograph―and her help. Her quick decision to trade places with a robot look-alike leaves her stranded on a planet with no way back. Unexpected tickets to a circus introduce readers to a character who will mean more to Zita than entertainment. Zita’s journey to save Pizzicato leads her to face the Star Hearts and put on her hero suit once more. A journey all in itself, readers will cheer once again for this easily-liked team of galactic stars.

For ideas about how to use these books and links to supportive sites, check out the Junior Library Guild blog, Shelf Life.

Junior Library Guild is a collection development service that helps school and public libraries acquire the best new children’s and young adult books. Season after season, year after year, Junior Library Guild book selections go on to win awards, collect starred or favorable reviews, and earn industry honors. Visit us at www.JuniorLibraryGuild.com.

HOLM, Jennifer L. and Matthew Holm. Babymouse for President. Random. 2012. ISBN 9780375967801. JLG Level: GE : Graphic Novels Elementary (Grades 2-6)

Babymouse is a work of fiction, but it fits perfectly with this week’s theme. It’s time for student council elections and Babymouse has decided to run for president. While trying to find a platform, she struggles to define her beliefs. During the debate Babymouse learns something about herself and what she stands for. Fans of the graphic novel series will laugh at her almost impossible promises and elect to re-read it.

TOWNSEND, Michael. Where Do Presidents Come From? And Other Presidential Stuff of Super-Great Importance. Dial. 2012. ISBN 9780803737488. JLG Level: NE : Nonfiction Elementary (Grades 2-6)

Written in graphic novel-style, Townsend uses humor to tell the history of presidential elections. Interrupting the narrative are various comic relief characters―clowns, bunnies, and even talking numbers. He explains the electoral college, the White House going-ons, and what presidents do. Older students will enjoy the jokes, while simultaneously learning about presidential facts. Includes a bibliography and websites for further research.

ROSENSTOCK, Barb. illus. by Mordicai Gerstein. The Camping Trip that Changed America: Theodore Roosevelt, John Muir, and our National Parks. Dial. 2012.

Long before there were national parks, Theodore Roosevelt asked John Muir to take him on a camping trip in the Sierras. He wanted to know if the wilderness was truly endangered. So in 1903, Roosevelt sent his men ahead and spent one night under the shelter of the redwoods with his guide. The pair rode into Yosemite Valley and on their last night together, Muir explained how the development of new cities and the search for gold were clearing away the forests. He asked the politician to protect the wilderness. When the future President returned home, he pushed Congress to pass laws in favor of that cause. He then went on to establish national parks and forests. Rosenstock tells a powerful story about a camping trip that truly changed America.

KATZ, Susan. illus. by Robert Neubecker. The President’s Stuck in the Bathtub: Poems About the Presidents. Clarion. 2012. ISBN  9780547182216. JLG Level: NE : Nonfiction Elementary (Grades 2-6)

Finally, with a good dose of humor, in classic form, Katz shares a poem about each president, starting with Washington and ending with Obama. In very few words, readers get a glimpse of a Commander-in-Chief who was so small he was referred to as “The Great Little Madison.” John Quincy Adams was fond of swimming naked. Taft got stuck in the bathtub. Buchanan had a habit of tilting his head to one side while he tried to focus his eyes. Arthur changed the presidential song. Theodore Roosevelt was one of the boys and participated in pillow fights with his sons. Filled with facts of all kinds, this presidential poetry book is not to be missed―whether it’s an election year or not.

For ideas about how to use these books and links to supportive sites, check out the Junior Library Guild blog, Shelf Life.

Junior Library Guild is a collection development service that helps school and public libraries acquire the best new children’s and young adult books. Season after season, year after year, Junior Library Guild book selections go on to win awards, collect starred or favorable reviews, and earn industry honors. Visit us at www.JuniorLibraryGuild.com.

What trends are you seeing?

Vampire books seem to have eased off a bit, but there are witch books aplenty. (I recommend Burn Mark by Laura Powell.) Postapocalyptic and dystopian novels remain abundant. While thought-provoking and engaging books continue to be published in this genre (Flash Point by Nancy Kresson), I have to agree with a baseball-playing middle schooler I recently spoke to on the subject. He said there were just too many bleak “future” books.

Anything else?

Speculative fiction as a whole seems to be stretching in new directions with more sci-fi, more sci-fi/fantasy mixes, and pleasantly, more humor (The Last Dragonslayer by Jasper Fforde). As we read for our spring 2013 list, we are seeing a bit more ethnic diversity in fantasy novels—a trend I hope will continue to grow. We seem to be seeing more female protagonists in classic, non-paranormal thrillers such as The Night She Disappeared by April Henry, Don’t Turn Around by Michelle Gagnon, and Ten by Gretchen McNeil.

What about for younger readers?

For younger readers, there are sequels and prequels to classics and long-running series, and authors returning to characters from some time back. (Examples include Return to the Willows by Jacqueline Kelly, Third Grade Angels by Jerry Spinelli, One Year in Coal Harbor by Polly Horvath, Princess Academy: Palace of Stone by Shannon Hale, and Paula Danziger’s Amber Brown Is Tickled Pink,  a sequel written by Bruce Coville and Elizabeth Levy that fully captures Paula Danziger’s and Amber’s voice and spark.)

We are seeing humor used in pleasing ways to convey information, notably in two graphic novels by Nathan Hale One Dead Spy and Big Bad Ironclad!; in Michael Townsend’s Where Do Presidents Come From?: And Other Presidential Stuff of Super-Great Importance (also in graphic format); and It’s a Dog’s Life: How Man’s Best Friend Sees, Hears, and Smells the World by Susan E. Goodman. Don’t be fooled by the title of What Body Part Is That?: A Wacky Guide to the Funniest, Weirdest, and Most Disgustingest Parts of Your Body by Andy Griffiths . Hilarious it is, but as the author freely admits, it is also “99.9% fact free.”(As you can see from above, long and lively subtitles and taglines are trendy!)

Any changes in picture books?

Picture-book illustrations seem to include more sophisticated and stylized approaches. (Infinity and Me by Kate Hosford, illustrated by Gabi Swiatkowska, and Abe Lincoln’s Dream by Lane Smith, for example.) While there are still plenty of cute picture books, even some of these have a little edge. (Nighttime Ninja by Barbara DaCosta, illustrated by Ed Young; I’m Bored by Michael Ian Black, illustrated by Debbie Ridpath Ohi; and Otter and Odder: A Love Story by James Howe, illustrated by Chris Raschka.)

What are some of your favorites?

From the fall season, I love Twelve Kinds of Ice by Ellen Bryan Obed, illustrated by Barbara McClintock. The language and the illustrations are evocative and perfectly matched. It feels like an old book, a classic, but while there’s a palpable longing for the ice of days gone by, it is so compelling that readers of all ages will want to experience the different kinds of ice, the ice-skating, the family, the winter. Fortunately, the world created in the book is so well-realized and immersive that reading it is experiencing it.

H.O.R.S.E.: A Game of Basketball and Imagination by Christopher Myers is playful both conceptually and visually. Two kids try to outdo each other on a basketball court and their incredible shots, which they brag will go as far as outer space, will make readers smile. I also love the humor in Joe Hayes’s bilingual Don’t Say a Word, Mama / No digas nada, mamá . With striking paintings by Esau Andrade Valencia, it is a beautiful book!

An extraordinary book for the older end of the age spectrum is My Book of Life by Angel by Martine Leavitt. The subject matter definitely made it difficult to read—I’d rather not face the fact that girls are forced into prostitution. However, I grew to love and admire Angel as she found a way to save herself as well as an even younger girl. Leavitt’s writing is powerful and flawless.

I feel like I am leaving out so many other strong fiction titles: Prairie Evers by Ellen Airgood,  Chickadee by Louise Erdrich, The Vengekeep Prophecies by Brian Farrey, Homesick by Kate Klise, Pinned by Sharon Flake, The Diviners by Libba Bray, Endangered by Eliot Schrefer, Such Wicked Intent: The Apprenticeship of Victor Frankenstein, Book Two by Kenneth Oppel among them.

What are your nonfiction favorites?

There are so many great nonfiction books this year, that it is hard to choose favorites. Among my nonfiction favorites are Island: A Story of the Galápagos by Jason Chin and Nic Bishop Snakes by Nic Bishop—both are gorgeous and full of insight. Bomb: The Race to Build—and Steal—the World’s Most Dangerous Weapon by Steve Sheinkin is a book I cannot stop talking about or recommending. It’s a riveting recounting of a thrilling time in history. Here are some other standouts: Moonbird: A Year on the Wind with the Great Survivor B95 by Phillip Hoose, Beyond Courage: The Untold Story of Jewish Resistance During the Holocaust by Doreen Rappaport, The Impossible Rescue: The True Story of an Amazing Arctic Adventure by Martin W. Sandler.

Any newbie authors/illustrators who we should keep an eye out for?

I’m eager to see more from David Nytra the author/illustrator of The Secret of the Stone Frog. As well, I am looking forward to future books from Debbie Ridpath Ohi, the illustrator of by Michael Ian Black’s I’m Bored, Lana Krimwiede, author of Freakling, and Irfan Master, who wrote A Beautiful Lie.

I see some familiar faces like Mo WIllems are back. 

Mo Willems has definitely done it again with Goldilocks and the Three Dinosaurs as has Jon Klassen with his latest hat book, This Is Not My Hat. Among more serious—and memorable—picture books are Each Kindness by Jacqueline Woodson, illustrated by E. B. Lewis, and Sarah Stewart and David Small’s The Quiet Place.

Is there anything unique or different this year? 

There seem to be an increasing number of books requiring visual literacy, from Look . . . Look Again! by John O’Brien or wordless stories like The Giant Seed by Arthur Geisert to the proliferation of graphic novels. We discovered an all-ages book on the Chronicle adult list Stick Man’s Really Bad Day by Steve Mockus, which tells a story using the wordless cautionary signs posted near roads and machinery.

Were there any surprises?

Well, we were pleasantly surprised by Sara Pennypacker writing for an older audience with Summer of the Gypsy Moths and Hilary McKay writing for a younger audience with Lulu and the Duck in the Park. We didn’t expect the mix of realism and fantasy in Prairie Thief by Melissa Wiley and What Came from the Stars by Gary D. Schmidt. Karen Hesse’s photographs and gently idyllic approach to dystopia in Safekeeping was also something new.

Are you seeing more graphic novels than previous years?

Yes, definitely. I am so glad that more children’s publishers are publishing this incredibly versatile and appealing form of storytelling.

Some of my current favorites are Little White Duck: A Childhood in China by Na Lui and Andrés Vera Martinez, Cardboard by Doug TenNapel, and Sumo by Thien Pham. I also like the strength and substance of the adaptations of two novels, The Supernaturalist: The Graphic Novel by Eoin Colfer, illustrated by Giovanni Riganoand, and Madeleine L’Engle’s A Wrinkle in Time: The Graphic Novel adapted and illustrated by Hope Larson.