EMBRACE WHO YOU TRULY ARE

Nory Horace is a sweet girl who possesses a special, magical talent. Although she has the ability to turn into an animal, she's unable to maintain its shape for very long.  Instead of turning into just a kitten, she'll turn into a 'bitten (beaver plus kitten) or a 'skunkephant' (skunk plus elephant').  What can be the cause of this?  By her father's request, Nory is sent away from home to attend a new school, one that offers a class to those who have upside-down magic.  Nory is frustrated with her abilities, but she soon finds hope when her teacher Ms. Staff shows her the secret to discovering her true self.

Sarah Mlynowski, Lauren Myracle, and Emily Jenkins are a great team of writers who show that unusual talents can also be quite special in Upside Down Magic.  

For 3rd-5th grade.

TRANSPORTED TRANSPORTATIONS

This is a very silly book about transporting a lawnmower by all modes of transportation in order to mow one eensy weensy little patch of grass on a teeny tiny island on a Thursday.  Tom Angleberger strikes again with his wicked and sly humor about a toad riding a lawnmower.  

The illustrations by John Hendrix are so much fun to look at. This is the book for children who love all things transportation. 

McToad Mows Tiny Island by Tom Angleberger and illustrated by John Hendrix. 
For ages 2 and up.  

FRACTURED AND FRUSTRATED SNOW WHITE

Snow White and the 77 Dwarfs by Raphaelle Barbanegre is a another twist on the original tale where Snow White meets and takes care of not 7 but 77 dwarves!  She has to memorize all their names, make lunches and help maintain their beards. When no one would help she decides is due for some much needed rest. 

This is perfect for those who know the original and are looking for something a little different.  No helpful woodland creatures here!  For preschool readers and up. 

SECRET AGENT

Darren Dirkowitz, an adventurous and spy-obsessed fifth grader, lives a double life as Dirk Daring Secret Agent. His opportunity to take on a real mission comes when his stepbrother gets a hold of his top-secret spy journal. For fear of it getting leaked to the students of Preston Middle School, Darren and his best friend “T-bone” set out to complete some spy work at the school for his evil brother. However, an unexpected turn of events occurs as Darren gets further into his mission. 


Read to find out what happens when friendships are tested and secrets are revealed in this amusing narrative filled with appealing illustrations.  Dirk Daring, Secret Agent by Helaine Becker is a perfect read for students who enjoy spy adventures. This book is for grades 4-6.