MAGGIE BROOKLYN IS BACK

Maggie is back with another mystery. She's been hired by a schoolmate to find out who has been egging her dog in the park.  Maggie finds out other dogs are being egged, too.  Hmmm... she's gonna get to the bottom of this. 

Meanwhile her two best friends are in a state of hyper excitement because teen heart throb, Seth Ryan, is in town to shoot a new movie and they want to be cast as extras. There's a lot of excitement in the movie world, but not all of it is good.  Seth Ryan acts totally weird, the neighbors are upset by the constant noise  and the horrible director is making everything worse. Then one day, Seth Ryan disappears.  Another mystery for Maggie to solve.

Vanishing Acts:  A Maggie Brooklyn Mystery by Leslie Margolis.  For readers in 6th-8th grades.

MYSTERIOUS MANSION HAS LOUD DOG

TILL DEATH DO US BARK by Kate Klise is Book Three in the "43 Old Cemetery Road" series, and will keep readers on their toes! Seymour lives with an odd set of adoptive parents - both are writers, but one is a ghost! One day, a shaggy old dog shows up, and Seymour is thrilled to have a companion who's not consumed with writing all the time. But he barks all night! Seymour gets roped into doing what he can to ease the sadness of his new furry friend, and discovers that this dog, who's name is Secret, might have a few secrets of his own!

For grades 3-5.

STEALING A LIFE

13 year old Caleb feels like his world is crashing down around him.  His best friend seems to be in love with his number one enemy and he's beginning to think that the career path he's on isn't for him.  Caleb is a professional thief who travels through time to steal and sell famous objects for his adopted Uncle.  Uncle is looking to expand his business, stopping at nothing to make money and becoming dangerous to anyone who stands in his way.  Can Caleb get out of the family business in one piece?  What will he do with his future if he succeeds?

In an action-packed novel, Time Snatchers by Richard Ungar will snatch readers in grades 5-8 and transport them into a not so distant future.

WHAT'S YOUR STAR QUALITY?

Calli Be Gold by Michelle Weber Hurwitz


In order to be considered someone special in the Gold family, you must excel in sports or in theater. Calli, the youngest member of the family can really care less about being a super star, but her parents won’t stop pressuring her.  When Calli meets a young boy, she discovers that she actually has star qualities. 

For readers in 4^th grade and up. 

WHO IS A JEOPARDY FAN?

Beans for 100 please. This girl is one of the biggest fan of Jeopardy, the game show, and tried unsuccessfully in the past to get on during Jeopardy Kids Week.   BUZZZZ.  Who is Olivia Bean?  

Olivia Bean, Trivia Queen by Donna Gephart is the biggest queen of trivia  and she must watch Jeopardy every night.  When there's finally a chance for kids to audition for the game show and possibly go to Hollywood, she's determined to find a way to get on.  But, Olivia has a weakness.  Geography.  Can she make it?  Only if she can enlist the help of her nemesis and next door neighbor who is the king of trivia and is great at geography.   She can't let the opportunity pass her by because this might also be her only way to see her dad in LA since the divorce. 

For readers and Jeopardy lovers in 4th-6th. 

A MAMMOTH IN THE LIBRARY

A child asks his librarian, Ms. Reeder, if he can bring Woolly the mammoth to the library. Woolly can help with so many things at the library if only he would not create a chaos. For instance, Woolly could help with the shelving if he would not get stuck between the shelves causing a big mess, throwing all the books on the floor, or if he could make less noise when he walks. When Mayor Pinchpenny comes with overdue books and refuse to pay all fines, Woolly would grab him by his legs and turn him  upside down and shake him until all the coins come out of his pocket.

This hilarious story is full of funny illustrations. Children will not only enjoy Woolly, but also learn rules and practices of a library such as how to acquire a library card, how to behave in the library, and how important the library is to its community. For Ages 5-8. Can I Bring Woolly to the Library, Ms. Reeder? is written by Lois G. Grambling and is illustrated by Judy Love.

AN OLDIE BUT A GOODIE?

I don't know about this book. Granted, the girl is trying to keep herself and her brother from growing hungry, but she sure is selfish! THE GIRL WHO OWNED A CITY adapted by Dan Jolley is a graphic novel based on an original story written by O.T. Nelson in 1975. A virus has wiped out all humans over the age of 12, and it's up to these kids to figure out how to survive. Some are trying to take others' food by force, some merely ask. Well, Lisa's not sharing with anyone, and pretty much expects everyone to do their share of the work in order to maintain their existence. She forms a city, it's HER city, and she controls everything that happens in it. Read this to see if you agree.

For 4th grade and up.

AHOY MATEY!

From Vivian, Children's Librarian at the Casa Verdugo Branch Library:

Charlotte Jane Battles Bedtime by Myra Wolfe

After participating in many pirate filled activities with her pirate mother and father, adorable Charlotte Jane wants to keep playing throughout the night.  After a much sleepless night, Charlotte Jane lost her “formidable oomph” and is unable to do any of her pirate activities the next day.

Readers will delight in Myra Wolfe’s message that a good night’s sleep is all it takes to regain your pirate gusto.  A delightful bedtime story to share with young children and pirate fans.

VOTE AND HELP THE LIBRARY

READ! BUILD! PLAY!

Help the Glendale Libraries bring a great Lego program to our kids by following the link below and voting for GLENDALE PUBLIC LIBRARY. Your vote could help us get some additional Lego materials and books for the collection. Please help us spread the word and share with your family and friends.

 http://readbuildplay.com/

IT'S A BIG WORLD, LITTLE PIG!

Poppy, the little pig, is a talented skater who makes it to the World Games of ice skating competitions. The games are far away and Poppy is scared, but her friends and family  encourage her and give her great advice.  When she arrives at the games in Paris, Poppy is very excited and scared at the same time about meeting so many new people.  Even though they all look different, are from different places, and are different animals, they all love sports and want to be friends.  Soon she learns that it is fun to make friends with competitors from all over the world.  

It's a Big World Little Pig written by Kristi Yamaguchi, illustrated by Tim Bowers.   The illustrations are colorful and fun and perfect for ages 5-6.  This book focuses on Poppy's family being proud of her performing to the best of her ability.  It also teaches children about following your dreams and not to let fear hold you back.  

EXTRAORDINARY, REMARKABLE, SINGULAR.

Strange.  That's the word that describes Emma-Jean Lazarus.  Good thing the dictionary defines strange as: extraordinary, remarkable, singular.  There is no one like Emma-Jean at William Gladstone Middle School.  Emma-Jean is logical and scientific, and would rather observe her fellow seventh graders than actually interact with them.  One day, though, Emma-Jean finds one of her classmates crying in the bathroom and her quiet, scientific, and ordered life is turned upsidedown as she tries to become the seventh grade problem solver.  Although she has good intentions, not everything goes to plan - especially when she finds herself falling out of a Magnolia Tree.


The first in a series of books, 5th - 8th graders will relate to Emma-Jean's life at school and home in Emma-Jean Lazarus Fell Out of a Tree by Lauren Tarshis.

ALL KINDS DELICIOUS DUMPLINGS

Pacy loves dumplings and the thought of dumplings is what keeps her spirit up at the thought of spending a whole month in Tawain instead of having a regular summer like her friends in New Hartford.  She doesn't speak the language, so her parents enroll her and her two sisters in a sort of enrichment class for Taiwanese American kids like herself.  Uggh... school in the summer. 


Taiwan is a different world from New Hartford except for the dumplings.  She didn't realize there were so many different kinds.  Everyone in her family gets into the dumpling mood and introduces her to soup dumplings, pan fried dumplings, the night market, chicken feet and most of all she gets to know all that is Taiwan and family.  


Dumpling Days by Grace Lin is a great culture-filled, food-filled book for readers 4th-6th.  

THE 2012 NEWBERRY WINNER IS VERY UNUSUAL

A 2012 Newberry Winner

This is an odd but truly enjoyable story about a boy who is grounded for the entire summer during the 1960s in a dead end town named, Norvelt.  With nothing else to do, his mother lends him out to the next door neighbor with the arthritic hands.  Whenever someone in Norvelt dies, it's up to him to help write the obituaries/history trivia.  In exchange for the use of his hands, she teaches Jack how to drive and fixes his bloody nose problem (which seems to squirt blood every time he gets excited or stressed).

 The once model town seem to hosting a lot of funerals for their elderly residents over such a short period of time that it all becomes suspicious.  When a Hell’s Angel motorcycle member accidentally dies in Norvelt, a chain of events set off monumental changes for Jack, his parents and the entire town.

Dead End in Norvelt by Jack Gantos seems like an autobiography but it’s not, even though the author lived in Norvelt and the main character is named after him. It’s a very unusual tale for that special reader who has read everything! For readers in 6th-8th.

A NEW TRILOGY FOR FANTASY READERS

The Emerald Atlas by John Stephens 

There’s a reason this book is popular. The writing is pitch-perfect and sweeps readers in immediately. “The Emerald Atlas” is the first in Stephen’s trilogy, “Books of Beginning.” It follows three orphans whose parent’s mysterious disappearance lands them in a string of orphanages. Ten years later, the children are adopted by Dr. Pym and move to a spooky, childless town. After some exploring, they discover a magic book that allows travel through time. Ultimately, they discover how the book connects to a prophecy, an evil witch, and their parents.

Fantasy buffs will notice similarities to Harry Potter and Chronicles of Narnia. But they won’t mind – the pacing, plot, and humor will keep them eagerly turning pages. Don’t expect something wholly original but do expect to be satisfied. 

A solid Harry Potter read-alike. For grades 4 – 7.

CAN A DRAGON BE A GOOD FRIEND?

From Vivian, Children's Librarian at the Casa Verdugo Branch Library:

How To Be Friends with a Dragon by Valeri Gorbachev

A fun story about the many rules to follow when around a dragon.  Valeri Gorbachev’s illustrations are whimsical and the story is an absolute delight to share with young dragon fans with bright imaginations.  For ages 4 - 7.  

WILD WEST

From Mr. B, Children's Librarian at the Grandview Branch Library

The Case of the Deadly Desperados

By Caroline Lawrence

In “The Case of the Deadly Desperados” [Western Mysteries, Book 1], Sid Fleishman-like charm meets modern sensibilities as 12 year-old half-breed P.K. Pinkerton tracks down his step-parents’ murderers and the silver mine deed they were trying to steal. Along the way, P.K. (who may or may not be the son or nephew of a more famous Pinkerton) hides-out in an opium den disguised as a Chinese boy (aka “a Celestial”); disguises himself as a girl to escape the murders only to run into reporter Samuel Clemens; and learns to read the body language of feet from a professional gambler. Confused? Exactly what author Caroline Lawrence hopes you will be. She lets P.K. fill in the details in his own words as he describes the danger, greed, and culture of Virginia City, silver mining, and the great Comstock Lode with warmth, humor, and a dash of innocence.

This historical tale is not for the faint-hearted, but should please many a 6-9^th grade adventure fan whether or not assigned to read “historical fiction.”

SHERLOCK HOLMES - THE LEGEND BEGINS

In this version of young Sherlock Holmes, the boy is sent to stay with his uncle and aunt at the end of the school term instead of going home to be with his mother.  It's best since his father has been sent off to India with the Army and brother Mycroft is busy at work in London.  Here in the country, Mycrofts sets Sherlock up with an unusual tutor from America, who begins to mentor young Sherlock in tracking, thinking and observational skills.  


When two people die from an unkown cause the townspeople begin to worry.   Young Sherlock along with two friends begin investigating the mysterious black clouds that seem to hover whenever there’s a death.



A dark beginning for this young Sherlock in Death Cloud by Andrew Lane.  For mystery lovers in 6th-8th grades.

IT'S NOT EASY SEEING INTO THE FUTURE

Lizzy Mortimer is hoping her English teacher will let her pass her English class, even though she has neglected to turn in her final project. In the world's longest letter, Lizzy explains the mysterious and exciting adventure that's prevented her from turning in her project, and adventure that harkens onto the days of Arthurian legend - include some creepy encounters with Vivienne le Mort and Morgan le Faye! Could it be that one of the town members has the mark of Arthur? What does that mean? Well, it's Lizzy's job to figure it out, and to prevent one very handsome boy from being killed!

THE DEATH CATCHERS by Jennifer Anne Kogler is an exciting story for magic and historical fiction fans alike! For 6th grade and up.

THE PRESIDENT'S SECRET

Beverly, Madison, and Eston Hemings are all brothers. They have a sister named Harriet and a mother named Sally. They all love the violin and learn how to be carpenters. They also live as slaves at Thomas Jefferson (the guy on the $20 bill's) plantation called Monticello. And, they have a secret. A secret that everyone knows but no one talks about. A secret of who their father is. Thomas Jefferson, writer of the Declaration of Independance, 3rd President of the United States, founder of the University of Virginia, and slave owner - is their father.


An honest look at race and slavery during the 1800s, Jefferson's Sons by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley takes you on a 20 year journey with the Hemings boys as they grow up as slaves on Monticello questioning everything around them and grow up into young free men, loose in a still young country founded by their father.

For lovers of historical fiction and family drama in grades 6-8.
Posted by Lessa

MUSHROOMS TERRORIZE TOWN

Strange mushrooms are growing in the woods behind their house.  Soon they are growing in everyone's yards and houses. Eric is afraid that this fungal growth will take over his small town in Maine and it may even be some sort of alien species described in a science fiction story from years ago. No one seems to know how to stop it from taking over everything.  It's up to Eric, his brother and runaway cohort to figure it all out. 

The Tanglewood Terror by Kurtis Scaletta is a wild sci-fi adventure for 6th -8th graders.

GHOSTS ARE NOT WHAT YOU THINK

If your mom or dad suddenly died, do you think you would be able to see their ghost? Jay thinks he's seen his Dad's ghost, and is now a dedicated paranormal scientist. Well, as much as one can be when they are still in middle school. But he and his friends team up to form a paranormal detective agency. Their first job: find a missing artifact that will allow them to control the spirit world. Will this help Jay be able to talk to his Dad?

THE SEARCH FOR THE DOMINION GLASS by Justin Heimberg is the first book in the "Ghosts of Rockville" series that may reveal more than anyone knows about paranormal activity. Plus, it includes a special decoder glass to reveal many secret mysteries! For grades 5 and up.

LEGEND OR RUMOR?

J.J. Tully is the barnyard security dog. He's in charge of keeping the chicks in check and the creepy culprits on the run. One day, a sleek looking female canine moves in next door. She claims to want to help J.J. thwart a particularly pesky possum from sneaking into the hen house, but it seems like she's always messing things up. J.J. begins to wonder what's REALLY going on with this fancy dog that seems more city than country.

Read THE LEGEND OF DIAMOND LIL by Doreen Cronin to get the real scoop! For 2nd-5th grades.

THE FIESTA DRESS: A QUINCEANERA TALE

Eva and her family prepare for her quinceañera, no one is paying attention to Lolo, her younger sister. She feels a little left out of all preparations for her sister's big celebration, but when Gobi, the perro, get outs of the laundry room and steals Eva's sash, her little sister comes to the rescue.

A delightful tale with swirling fancy dresses that every young girl will enjoy. A glossary in back of the book offers definitons of all the Spanish words. THE FIESTA DRESS: A QUINCEANERA TALE written by Caren McNelly Mccomarck and illustrated by Martha Aviles. For ages 4-8. Grades 2-3.

A FIRST CRUSH

From Vivian, Children's Librarian at the Casa Verdugo Branch Library:

The Boy on Cinnamon Street by Phoebe Stone

Louise (a.k.a. Thumbelina) is not your average sized seventh grader. Although small in size, she’s strong in character- thanks to her grandparents and best friends.  When she’s not around her loved ones, Louise has feelings that she can’t seem to understand.  Then, an intriguing letter from an admirer helps to distract her and discover her first crush.

Phoebe Stone’s main characters are simply charming.  The story is filled with laugh-out-loud situations, and Louise’s feelings for her first crush are humorous and memorable.  Although written in poetic prose, Ms. Stone handles Louise’s major issues, such as hopelessness, grief and memory loss delicately.  The Boy on Cinnamon Street is a moving story about the acceptance of loss.

WHATEVER IT TAKES TO BE POPULAR!!

How to Rock Braces and Glasses by Meg Haston is all about Kacey Simon and how she was the queen bee, until her eyes got infected from her cool new contacts which made her trip and chipped her teeth.  Kacey's amazing weekend resulted with her getting braces AND glasses AND a lisp all in the same weekend. Her fall from queen of mean, giving what she thought was well meaning advice on her weekly school television broadcast, hits her hard and fast, especially when a former best friend tells her like it is.

For readers in 6th-8th grade who enjoy a fast paced rom-com.

QUESTION BOY HAS QUESTIONS

Question Boy, a child dressed in a cape and a leotard with a Q on his chest, drives everyone crazy with all his questions. All he wants are answers! He doesn’t have a clue about what to ask or even what not to ask. He feels such a need to understand things that he has no control over it.

He lives in a neighborhood with numerous action heroes such as Oil Man, Paperboy, and Police Woman, but none of them can satisfy his need to know it all. Until one day he meets Little Miss Know-It-All in the park. He finally meets someone who will answer all his questions!!! But Little Miss Know-It-All not always have the right answers and what she doesn’t know she makes up.

 A very cute and funny story with great comic illustrations. Expressions on the characters are great. The book will help parents to talk about good ways to find answers either by researching in a children’s encyclopedia or nonfiction book. Question  Boy Meets Little Miss Know-It-All is written and illustrated by Peter Catalanoto. For ages 5-6.

From Vivian the children's librarian at the Casa Verdugo Branch Library:

A Big Boy Now by Eileen Spinelli

A wonderful growing up story which highlights many of the activities that a young child accomplishes and feels good about such as, making one’s bed, pouring cereal into a bowl, and riding a bike without training wheels are just a few examples.  When an unexpected fall from the bike occurs, mother is very reassuring and mentions that even Daddies come to Mom for aid.  This kind of assurance helps to build and reaffirm one’s confidence.

WHO CAN YOU TRUST?

A book review from Jennifer - Montrose Branch Children's Librarian

Judy Award Winner Book:  Icefall by Matthew J. Kirby

Set in an unforgiving Nordic landscape, Solveig and her two siblings await news from their father, a Viking king. While a war wages, he’s sent them deep inside a fiord with his most trusted advisors. Initially, it seems a safe place to brave the long, bitter winter. But when Norse warriors appear, sent by her father, Solveig wonders if something is amiss. With more mouths to feed, rations are fewer and tensions begin to rise.

Solveig, besides warranting protection, has little value to her father. She’s neither destined to bring wealth through marriage, nor inherit her father’s crown. So when her father’s skald, or storyteller, suggests an apprenticeship – she eagerly accepts. Solveig quickly discovers the power of stories, both real and imagined. And through her storytelling, helps distinguish friends from enemies.


A gripping tale about loyalty. For grades 5 – 8.

WHERE'S THE BOOV??

Adam Rex writes about the weirdest, most unbelievable things. But his books are funny. And interesting and entertaining. In fact, it will be hard for you to put down one of his books without finishing it first.

His latest book for kids, COLD CEREAL, is about a young boy named Scottish Play Doe. Yes, his middle name and last name form a common toy for toddlers involving a clay-like substance. So, he prefers to go by the name Scott and just not tell anyone the part about his middle name. He moves to a city where the main source of income is a cereal factory. But it's not just any cereal factory. Strange and mystical creatures reside inside and appeal to Scott to save him from the treachery within!

While this is in no way similar to his first children's book, The True Meaning of Smek Day, it will appeal to anyone who loved that book as much as me. For 5th grade and up.

THE ULTIMATE ADVENTURE!

If you want to read a book where you can change the journey or the faith of the characters in a story, than this is the book for you! The book is about a group of young hikers who have decided to reach the very top of Mount Everest. However, while the reader is enjoying the great expedition, he/she is also going to be responsible in making choices about the directions that the group should take to reach to the top of the mountain. This means that a lot of logical and strategic thinking needs to be made in order to have a successful expedition for the young hikers.
This Choose Your Own Adventure book is full of interesting scenarios, graphs and pictures that will really make you feel as though you are actually on the expedition yourself. The only thing is that you might not get to feel the actual snow or the cold. However, your imagination will do that for you since it’s written very descriptively….

So lets begin our adventures...

Worst-Case Scenario Ultimate Adventure: Everest: You Decide How to Survive! by Bill Doyle and David Borgenicht.

For grades 5th-7th.

BOXING BRINGS A COMMUNITY TOGETHER

From Jennifer, Children's Librarian at the Montrose Branch Library:

A Judy Award Honor Book:

Bird in a Box by Andrea Pinkney

Have you ever wondered why footballmakes grown men cry? Or, why people riot at a soccer game? It’s because peopleplace their hopes, their dreams in sports teams and figures. Sports bringpeople together around a cause. In the 1930’s, that “cause” was Joe Louisbecoming the country’s next heavyweight boxing champion.

Pinkney’s “Bird in a Box” ties three coming-of-age stories together through boxing. Hibernia, the daughter of apreacher, dreams of becoming a famous jazz singer. Willie, an aspiring boxer,has his dream ripped away from him. Otis, a boxing fan, becomes orphaned in afreak accident. A charity concert at the local orphanage brings all three together. Before long, a friendship develops. It’s strengthened by a shared dream – to see Joe Louis, an African American boxer, take the heavyweight title. For African Americans of the time, Joe Louis represented more than a sports figure. He instilled hope and pride, which shows the reader that sports is more than “just a game.”

Not your average sports story. For grades 4 – 7.

MINE! MINE! ALL MINE!

From Vivian, Children's Librarian at the Casa Verdugo Branch Library:

Betty Bunny Wants Everything by Michael B. Kaplan

Mother Rabbit allows each of her children to select one toy from the toy shop but things don’t go as planned.  Betty Bunny decides to fill a cart with toys and have a wild tantrum at the store.  Mother Rabbit doesn’t tolerate Betty’s behavior and takes her young one home without any toys.  Mother and Father Bunny must devise a plan to help their tantrum-throwing child make responsible choices about saving or spending money.  A nice story that introduces the importance of budgeting money and the value of modeling patience and understanding.

CEMETERIES + SKULLS = SAMMY KEYES

Sammy is back with another thrilling mystery. She and her friends decide to take a shortcut through the town cemetery after trick-or-treating on Halloween and they run into "a beast". Scared witless, they run home. But instead of candy, they find their sack filled with two skulls.

Hmm... what did Sammy get her friends into this time?

Sammy Keyes and the Night of Skulls by Wendelin van Draanen is perfect for readers 6th-8th. You don't have to read this just during Halloween time though.

THE CASTLE IS ALIVE!

Castle Glower is an unusual castle. It's a magical castle. It can change rooms, add rooms and hallways depending on its mood. It always seems to know when there are changes within the household or special visitors are coming. Princess Celie loves the castle and its many quirks can map all its changes everyday.

When Princess Celie's parents, the King and Queen, are attacked en route to bring home her older brother from school, everyone assumes that they are dead and her oldest brother would become the king. But with no changes from the castle, that can mean only one thing. Her parents are still alive.

The castle loves Celie most of all and would do anything to protect her and do anything she asks. Can the castle help find her parents before the bad guys take over her kingdom? An unusual thrilling and humorous fantasy story where the castle comes alive. Tuesdays at the Castle by Jessica Day George is for readers 4th - 6th.

ALL ABOUT GRANDMAS

Today, there's no such thing as a typical grandma. They come in different shapes. They do different jobs and have different hobbies. They even go by different names! But one thing grandmas have in common is their unconditional love, kindness, patience and wisdom they have to share. Its presence in the lives of their grandchildren is a valuable contribution. From the nagging Grandmas to the cooking Grandmas this book covers them all. It’s a great book to show the little ones that there is a world full of Grandmas and each one is special. Perfect gift for Mother’s Day. Includes a list of names for grandmothers in different language. Pictures are bright and colorful and the rhyming is wonderful. Recommended for ages 3-5. Written by Roni Schotter, illustrated by Janice Nadeau.

From Vivian the Children's Librarian at the Casa Verdugo Branch Library:

Box of Shocks by Chris McMahen

Oliver has a life filled with security—he lives with his working mother and father, he has a beautiful and organized home, he takes prepared lunches to school, and he gets to go on annual trips to see his Uncle and Aunt. 

On one ordinary day, Oliver discovers a buried box and decides to fill it with items that will give his parents the shock of their lives.  Reckless and dangerous acts of behavior is involved in getting these items and Oliver is consumed with protecting it.  Unfortunately, Oliver’s Box of Shocks is left behind in his old home and he decides to go on with his reckless behavior in order to get it back.  What Oliver soon discovers is that not everyone has the same disposition as he and that the last item placed in his box is the most meaningful. For older readers.

A BASEBALL STORY

From Mr. B at the Grandview Branch Library:

King of the Mound (My Summer With Satchel Paige)

By Wes Tooke

Twelve year old Nick was “king of the mound” for his team until polio put him in the hospital for a year. Now, with his weak leg in a brace, even his dad – a catcher for historic the semi-pro Bismark Churchills – calls him “a cripple.” The Churchills are an integrated team – one of the last, as integrated semi-pro teams were banned starting with the 1936 season. But, in this summer of 1935, Negro league star Satchel Paige, another “king of the mound,” has been hired in the hope he can take the team to the newly inaugurated semi-pro championships.

As Nick’s leg heals, Satchel helps Nick heal while the team plays the circuit, North and South. Racial tensions, state politics, legendary players, a budding romance, and some useful life lessons make this historical sports novel a winner for young readers or baseball fans of any age.

MAKING ANIMALS SAFE

If you ask me, a life without a pet is no life at all. But not all pets have the luxury of being a  part of someone's family, a warm place to stay, or a safe place to live. In the town where Billy lives, there are a lot of stray cats, and not everyone in town want them around. When Billy discovers Conga, a hurt starving kitten, he has to keep her a secret because he KNOWS his Dad would take her away. This small kitten leads Billy on a dangerous adventure, but it isn't long before he's teaching the town a thing or two about the importance of love for all creatures. CAT FOUND by Ingrid Lee is a story that will pull in animals lovers and captivate them with it's dangerous and exciting plot twists. Written for simpler reading level, but contains content that might be mature for some. For grades 3-7.

COWBOY BOY

A new neighborhood, a new school and a new nemesis are just a few things that Ricky V. (“Very Afraid”) has to deal with when his dad gets a new job and the family has to relocate.

Ricky has to think and come up with different ways to fight the evil bullies who are prepared to do everything and anything to make his life miserable...
Instead of turning himself to any kind of a superhero, he decides to transform himself into a Cowboy! Hence the name of the book Cowboy Boy!

Now... Imagine all the tricks and the gimmicks that can be pulled as a cowboy to fight the nemesis… This is a fun and adventurous story that will capture you attention. Additionally, the book is filled with humorous illustrations/cartoons which add a fun twist to the story. COWBOY BOY is written by JAMES PROIMOS.

For grades 3rd-6th.

BROTHERS!

From Vivian the children's librarian at the Casa Verdugo Branch Library:

 Big Little Brother by Kevin Kling

An older brother gets what he wants.. a younger sibling.  Over time, baby grows bigger and taller and is mistaken to be the older sibling.  An unwelcome idea at first but big brother soon has a change of heart after he’s bullied in school, and his younger brother’s mere presence helps to solve the issue.  A wonderful story to share!

A TRIP TO PARIS

From Vivian the children's librarian at the Casa Verdugo Branch Library:

Pierre in the Air! by Andrea Beck

Pierre dreams of adventure and one soon comes true when he sets off for Paris for a dog show.  When an opportunity arises for his owner to see the Eiffel Tower, Pierre wants to go but is left at the hotel time and time again.  This poodle seeking adventurer will stop at nothing so he can enjoy the architectural wonder of his dreams.

PETS AT SCHOOL?

From Children’s Librarian, Kristine Markosyan at the Adams Square & Pacific Park Branch Libraries:

8 Class Pets + 1 Squirrel / Dog= Chaos by Vivian Vande Velde is a funny story about a squirrel named Twitch who gets himself in all kinds of trouble when he tries to run away from an owl and then during his escape lands on a dog that chases him all the way into the school.  Twitch ends up being locked inside a school with an angry dog that is determined to find him.  As Twitch tries to find a place to hide, he meets the school pets along the way.  Will these animals help squirrel hide from the dog chasing him?  

Each chapter if from the viewpoint of different classroom pets (hamster, rabbit, rat, fish, parrot, corn snake, geckos and turtle) as well as the squirrel and dog.  Readers will meet the interesting characters that live in the school. 

This is a hilarious book that will keep readers attention until the very last page.  Great for reluctant readers!

Best for readers in grades 2 and up.

MERMAIDS AND PONIES AND CARNIVALS! OH MY!

Rosa lives in the ocean with her BFF's Melody, Sula and Jasmine and they cannot wait to do a performance for this year's carnival. Even Rosa's cousin is going to help make it the best dance ever! Wait. They live in the ocean? Yes, because all the girls are MERMAIDS!!! And, as part of their best dance ever, they change a sea horse into a magical water-pony that is sparkly and gorgeous! Trouble is, Coral is better than Rosa, and Rosa gets a little mad, and then something bad happens to the pony! Better read to find out what happens next...ROSA AND THE WATER PONY by Katy Kit is just the beginning of the "Mermaid Mysteries" series. For grades 2-4.

MY HEART WILL NOT SIT DOWN

In a village in Cameroon, a teacher tells his class about America his home country. There is something going on called the Great Depression. There are not enough jobs, people are homeless, starving and begging on the streets. When little Kedi learns about it, she can’t get the problem out of her head. The news that children were starving, deeply affects Kedi. Knowing what it means to go hungry, she is determined to help the hungry children overseas. Her village has little money and everyone must work for food and shelter, yet, little Kedi wants to share what she has with the people she has heard about in school. She calls all the people of her village and persuade them to do the same. Based on a true story in 1931 when the city of New York received a gift of $3.77 from the African country of Cameroon to help feed the hungry. Nice story that shows generosity and compassion. Bright and beautiful illustrations. Ages 6-7.Written by Mara Rockliff, illustrated by Ann Tanksley.

ANOTHER TOY STORY

From Vivian the children's librarian at the Casa Verdugo Branch Library:

Chicken, Pig, Cow and the Class Pet by Ruth Ohi

Three adorable toys lend a helping hand to a class pet hamster who has escaped from his home.  Ruth Ohi’s illustrations bring these toys to life, and old and new fans of this series will want to share this over and over again with a young audience.

THE COYOTE UNDER THE TABLE/EL COYOTE DEBAJO DE LA MESA

Very nice collection of bilingual classic folktales told in English and Spanish gather by the author Joe Hayes from the rich tradition of Northern New Mexico. This book is full of lively characters and laugh out loud stories, such as the story of a dog whose life has been saved by a coyote, or a spotted cat who is like a guardian angel that saves a young man from the treachery of his jealous brothers, or a girl befriends a small snake she finds in a cabbage and is granted a wish in exchange, or a greedy man who learns his lesson on a day when couldn’t stop dancing. In many of the stories, animals with their wisdom teach life lessons to humans. Others, human cleverness will help to overcome the injustices presented by the environment, Tortillas coyotes, snakes and desserts are in these stories, as well as kings and princesses, magical gardens and castles.These are few of the wonderful tales you’ll find in this bilingual collection. Format of the book left page in English and right page in Spanish. Written by Joe Hayes, illustrated by Antonio Castro L. Recommended for 4th graders and up.

From Children's Librarian Mr. B at the Grandview Branch Library:

WOLF STORM by Dee Garretson

In this survival adventure, it’s all about storytelling, and Dee Garretson tells a swell story. Child actors, novice Stephan, 14; demanding starlet Raine, 13; and support Jeremy, 9, are on location at an abandoned Slovakian ski resort. They are cast as siblings returning to a desolate Earth with their pet wolves, played by domesticated wolves under the care of an animal trainer. With a blizzard approaching, all the adults but one featured actor trek to the distant town to take care of anticipated needs, leaving the children and wolves under the care of the veteran actor. The blizzard arrives early, followed by an avalanche that destroys the resort and the cell phones. The children and wolves escape the destruction, but the veteran actor is trapped in the ruins, and suffers a devastating heart attack. The remainder of this very readable tale of courage and survival shows the children grappling with snow banks, injuries, wet firewood, wild wolves, failed escape plans, and other sudden realities. Can’t wait for the movie. 

LIFE IS JUST DIFFICULT SOMETIMES

Rafe Khachadorian decides on the first day of school to break all the rules in the school rule book. His friend, Leo, is encouraging him to do his worst, who eggs him to do some self destructive things, single mom who works a lot, and is being bullied by his mom's fiance. He's trying to cope but he can't seem to make the right choices. the cartoon drawings Rafe makes are your typical goofy and outlandish of kids his age, until you realize that they are his manifestions of his exagerations of reality, like his teacher as a dragon.

Middle School : The Worst Years of My Life by James Patterson is a dark tale of a boy who is just trying to figure out how to live life.

MUSICAL MYSTERY

From Children’s Librarian, Kristine Markosyan at the Adams Square and Pacific Park Branch Libraries:

Vanished by Sheela Chari is a story about a young girl named Neela who has received a musical instrument as a gift from her grandmother.  This musical instrument, known as a veena, is an Indian instrument that has been rumored to be cursed.  When the instrument is stolen, Neela is determined to find the person who took it and find out why it was stolen it in the first place.  This mystery and adventure takes Neela and her friends all the way back to India to find the veena.  Will Neela, with the help of her friends and family find the veena and finally break the curse?

This is a great read for readers who enjoy a mystery and also interested in reading about another culture.  With so much suspense, readers will not want to put the book down in the last 100 pages.

Best for readers in grades 4 and up.