THE FOURTEENTH GOLDFISH

Ellie's goldfish has lived for seven years, since her day as a preschooler or so she thought.  Her mother tells her that the fish was really goldfish number 14.  Her life is about to change even more when a 13 year old "distant cousin" comes to live with them. There's something very familiar yet odd about him, but she can't quite put her finger on what it is.  This isn't really a story about goldfishes or even pets, but a great coming of age tale, using humor and a bit of science fiction to force us to deal with the cycle of life - birth, growth, death - in a gentle and thoughtful way.   

Jennifer Holm, author of the Babymouse series, creates a story filled with adventure, humor, suspense, and love.  Best for readers from 4th - 8th.

Note: This will be our One Book One Glendale... for Young Readers in November.  We're very excited to have Ms. Holm come to Glendale to talk about her book.  Please check in for a date and time as we get closer to the event. 

ANOTHER GRAPHIC WINNER

Smile by Raina Telgemeier is a hilarious story of how Raina (yes, it's based on the author's childhood) deals with braces, missing teeth, and growing up. A graphic novel is the perfect way to share all the visual humor of this teenage trauma. I won't attempt to describe them since the author did such a great job already. Here are a few hilarious excerpts:

For readers in 5th grade and up.

DOWN ON THE BAYOU - SOUTHERN GOTHIC FOR KIDS

There are many emotional animal stories dealing with adventure and tragedy, but none as poetically beautiful as THE UNDERNEATH by Kathi Appelt. Many creatures lurk in dark places, waiting to come out into the light. Some are evil, but some, like two frisky kittens and their mom, are innocent and curious. Unfortunately, from their home underneath the porch of a mean old man called Gar Face, the cat family and their trusty watch dog and companion Ranger rarely get to experience the light. When they dare to risk it, their lives are changed forever. Written with captivating imagery and the dark enchanting tone of a much more mature novel, this story will draw readers in to its tangled web of raw feelings and vivd personification of the many animal characters. Appropriate for grades 6 and up.

ANASTASIA, NOT THE PRINCESS

Anastasia Krupnik is a very grown-up ten-year-old. She fancies herself to be a great poet, until her teacher gives her an "F" on one of her poems. Her best friend is her grandmother, and she is very big on keeping things organized, so she has a lot of lists. But a lot of things happen to Anastasia that make her question what she really knows about being ten and the world around her. Every day has a new lesson to learn about love, life and family. This chapter book is great for 4th grade and up.