Great Books for Year-Round Giving: 2018

Seasonal stress is real and can be a big bummer when you’re trying to get your holly-jolly on. Fear not!

We of the Youth Services Department at the Warren-Trumbull County Public Library have compiled a list of our favorite books that have been published in 2018. From babies to pre-teens, and from beginning readers to novel-lovers to non-fiction fanatics to graphic novel fans, we’ve got them all! These books make perfect presents for holidays, birthdays, and every day in-between.

Don’t let those winter blues get you down: check out some of these books today!

Happy holidays!

Board Books

Fiona’s Feelings by Dr. John Hutton
For Ages: 0 – 3

Have you been following Fiona, the hippo born prematurely at the Cincinnati Zoo, or do  you just love adorable animals?  Then this board book is the thing for you!  This small board book is big on emotions.  From happy to sad, silly to mad, Fiona covers it all.  Accompanying photographs show why this cute hippo turned into such a phenomenon.  Whether she’s taking a snooze or covered in paint, this board book will be sure to delight even the smallest animal lovers.
*Review by Miss Nicole


Mrs. Peanuckle’s Fruit Alphabet / Vegetable Alphabet by Mrs. Peanuckle, illustrated by Jessie Ford
For Ages: 0 – 3

These bright, bold board books contain more than 100% of your daily recommended fruits and vegetables! Enjoy interesting tidbits about familiar fruits and vegetables, such as bananas, grapes, and peas, while perhaps becoming acquainted with some unusual ones, like quince, kumquat, and ugli fruit (it’s not ugly and tastes like an orange!). Once you’ve fallen in love with these colorful books, check out the others in Mrs. Peanuckle’s series about the natural world.
*Review by Miss Taylor


Who? A Celebration of Babies by Robie H. Harris, illustrated by Natascha Rosenberg
For Ages: 0 – 3

A wonderfully sweet board book celebrating babies! The text is very repetitive and lyrical, asking and answering the question “Who?”  The bright illustrations show diverse babies and their grown-ups, as well as some basic animals. This book is perfect for snuggling up and working on basic recognition skills.
*Review by Miss Amber


Peekaboo! On the Farm by Cocoretto
For Ages: 1 – 3

Peekaboo! I see you! Take a guess at who is hiding on the farm with this interactive lift-the-flap-book. There are many large flaps for little hands.
*Review by Miss Jill

Picture Books

Don’t Forget Dexter! By Lindsay Ward   
For Ages: 3 – 7

Losing a favorite toy is a common childhood experience.  We all know how the child feels, but what about the toy? Dexter T. Rexter shares his tale of being lost and found, his friendship, and his outrageous attempts to reconnect with his boy. Sure to be a favorite, especially if you love dinosaurs!
*Review by Miss Trish


Grumpy Monkey by Suzanne Lang
For Ages: 3 – 8

I have called my children this and I am sure they have referred to me by this same name. Some days you just wake up grumpy!  Jim Panzee is in a terrible mood, he does not know why, and every jungle animal wants to suggest a quick fix. The message is, it is OK to feel how you are feeling: just feel it!
*Review by Miss Trish


The Treasure of Pirate Frank by Mal Peet & Elspeth Graham, illustrated by Jez Tuya
For Ages: 3 – 8

Yo-ho! A young adventurer is after the famous treasure of the mysterious Pirate Frank. He must travel over the sea, mountains, forests and swamps to find what he’s looking for.  When the adventurer reaches the treasure, he’s shocked by what he finds and WHO Pirate Frank really is! This book has adorable illustrations with a rhythmic text, and when read aloud it turns into a fun chant!
*Review by Miss Amber


We Don’t Eat Our Classmates by Ryan T. Higgins
For Ages: 4 – 7

Making friends at school can be scary, but when you are the only dinosaur in a classroom filled with humans, it’s even more frightening. Penelope Rex is determined to not eat her classmates. If only human kids weren’t so delicious!
*Review by Miss Amanda M.


Can I Be Your Dog? by Troy Cummings
For Ages: 4 – 9

Arfy the dog is desperate to find a forever home.  He writes letters to everyone on Butternut Street in the hopes of finding a family.  He’s housebroken!  He has his own toys!  He’s playful!  After a series of rejections, readers will be happy to see who finally adopts Arfy.  A heart-warming story about rescuing animals in need and finding a forever friend.  An added bonus is seeing the lost art of letter writing in action.  This book is perfect for the youngster who loves helping animals.
*Review by Miss Nicole

Beginning Readers

Giggle Gang series by Jan Thomas: What Is Chasing Duck?, There’s a Pest in the Garden!, My Friends Make Me Happy!, My Toothbrush Is Missing
For Ages: 4 – 7

Jan Thomas is at it again.  Her brand of zany humor is just right for this set of beginning reader books.  Duck, Sheep, Dog, and Donkey get into all kinds of silly situations and invite the reader to join in.  Whether it’s finding a missing toothbrush or guessing what makes Sheep happy, young readers will giggle at the antics of these four friends.  Large type in speech bubbles and word repetition make this a great choice for beginning readers.  Any book in this set would be a fun addition to a new reader’s shelf.
*Review by Miss Nicole


Pizza Mouse by Michael Garland
For Ages: 4 – 7

In a bustling city filled with people, dogs, cats, and cars, a small mouse can face many dangers. Especially when he is in search of food. He not only needs to feed himself, but his hungry family too. He does his best as he avoids the dangers around him and eventually stumbles upon a discarded slice of pizza. Now, all this little mouse has to do is get the pizza safely home. With wonderful illustrations and succinct, sparse text, this easy Beginning Reader is perfect for your emerging reader.
*Review by Mr. Tony


Baby Monkey, Private Eye  by Brian Selznick and David Serlin
For Ages: 5 – 8

He’s a baby! He’s a monkey! He’s adorable and hilarious and in a fantastic book! Don’t let the number of pages and chapters fool you. This is a funny read-aloud and a perfect book for beginning readers. The text is minimal, repetitive, and in large font while Brian Selznick provides the beautiful and detailed artwork.  Each chapter presents Baby Monkey with a different case to solve yet his preparation remains the same. He looks for clues, writes notes, eats snacks, and deals with some pesky pants. Part Beginning Reader, part graphic novel, and part picture book, Baby Monkey, Private Eye is not to be missed.
*Review by Miss Nicole

Chapter Books

Secret Sisters of the Salty Sea by Lynne Rae Perkins
For Ages: 7 – 10

The Treffreys are going to the ocean! Alix is excited to go on a vacation with her older sister Jools that isn’t a visit to family or friends, but nervous, too. They’ll only have each other - what if they can’t get along? Each chapter is an episode from their beach adventure. Nothing terribly consequential happens, just shared experiences of a realistic, loving family, depicted in a way that engages the senses as the author delightfully describes the sights, sounds, and smells of the beach setting. The sisters’ relationship is particularly well portrayed. Charmingly old-fashioned, this book would make a great read-aloud as well as a perfect choice for the young reader ready for a longer chapter book.
*Review by Miss Lori


Arlo Finch in the Valley of Fire  by John August
For Ages: 8 – 12

Arlo likes to have emergency plans to follow in case things go wrong, but before moving to his mother’s tiny rural hometown of Pine Mountain, Colorado, nothing could have prepared him for wisps, night mares, and other eldritch creatures who seem to have it in for him. Happily, his new friends in his Ranger troop can help! They’re used to living so close to the otherworldly Long Woods, and they have knowledge and know-how up their sleeves. They’re also used to teamwork. Surely, together they can keep Arlo safe, at least until they figure out why he’s in danger to begin with? Arlo is a likeable main character, and his troop is one I’d love to join. This fun, fast-reading series starter is too good to pass up – give it the old Ranger try!
*Review by Miss Audrey


Lions & Liars by Kate Beasley
For Ages: 8 – 12

For Frederick, fifth grade feels like survival of the fittest, and if some kids are the lions on the food chain, he’s a meerkat. Worse – a flea that is biting a meerkat’s butt! A series of mishaps leads Frederick to be stuck at a disciplinary camp for troubled boys where a case of mistaken identity gives him the chance to reinvent himself as a cool kid. All of the campers act as if they are tough and dangerous, but when a category 5 hurricane bears down on the camp, true courage is needed and true natures are revealed. You’ll be rooting for Frederick and his bunkmates as they face the storm, and cheering at the end when they get their just rewards.
*Review by Miss Lori


The Parker Inheritance by Varian Johnson
For Ages: 9 – 12

Candice Miller is having a terrible summer. Her parents are recently divorced, and she and her mother have moved from Atlanta to her late grandmother’s house in a small town in South Carolina where she has no friends and nothing to do. Then Candice finds a letter in the attic that describes an incident of terrible discrimination that occurred in the town’s past. The letter writer offers the town a chance for redemption - and a hidden fortune - if someone can follow the clues in the letter and solve the puzzle. Her grandmother’s attempt to find the treasure had ended badly – can Candice, with the help of Brandon, the bookish boy from across the street, succeed where her grandmother failed? With chapters alternating between past and present, a story of racism and discrimination is interwoven with a suspenseful mystery. In this contemporary novel, the puzzle solving is reminiscent of the classic The Westing Game.
*Review by Miss Lori


Ivy Aberdeen’s Letter to the World  by Ashley Herring Blake; Audio narrated by Chloe Cannon
For Ages: 10 – 13

When a tornado destroys Ivy Aberdeen's home, the 12-year-old manages to save her journal in which she draws her deepest secrets. After her family is relocated to a temporary shelter and the journal goes missing, Ivy attempts to determine who took it and is leaving messages with her journal drawings in her locker. Narrator Chloe Cannon gives a unique vocal personality to each of the characters, capturing Ivy's uncertainty about her feelings for another girl, her loneliness within her family, and her moments of overwhelming emotion due to her current circumstances.
*Review by Miss Amanda M.

Graphic Novels

Peter and Ernesto: A Tale of Two Sloths by Graham Annable
For Ages: 6 – 10

Best friends Peter and Ernesto have always lived in their tree. Peter is content staying in the same place day after day, but Ernesto, though very fond of his home, longs to see what else is out in the world. Ernesto embarks on his bold journey, but Peter fears for Ernesto’s safety and soon begins his own adventure to find Ernesto and bring him back to the safety of their tree. During his search for Ernesto, Peter learns that he is braver and more capable than he ever could have imagined, while Ernesto learns that there truly is no place like home. This graphic novel is full of cute illustrations, excellent vocabulary, friendship, and laughter.
*Review by Miss Taylor


Kitten Construction Company: Meet the House Kittens by John Patrick Green
For Ages: 6 – 11

If your child likes books that are full of laughs, and they also happen to love kittens, then this book might be for them. In this adorably cute graphic novel, a group of skilled kittens are determined to win the bid to build the town’s mayor a new home. However, even though each of the kittens are highly trained in their chosen fields of construction, none of their human counterparts take them seriously. And why is that you might ask? Well, because they are all just too darn cute! When the bid to build the house is given to a less than qualified architect, the kittens understandably become quite upset. However, this does not deter the kittens, and they set out to show the humans what they can really do. In the end, the kittens prove their skills and that they are not just cute little fur balls, and they get the outcome they always desired.
*Review by Mr. Tony


The Cardboard Kingdom by Chad Sell
For Ages: 8 – 12

A multi-authored ode to individuality, imagination, friendship, and summer. It starts with just one brother-sister pair (the Sorceress and the Imp), making alter-ego costumes out of cardboard and craft supplies, and spreads like wildfire to every kid in their neighborhood. Pretty soon they are joined by the Knight, the Huntress, Beast Boy, Big Banshee, the Mad Scientist, an evil robot, and more, all with skin tones, cultures, and backgrounds as diverse as their characters. Each episode lasts a few pages, with plots ranging from the humorous to the heartfelt, and together they tell the story of how the kids come to make a team by summer’s end. A crowd-pleasing favorite – not to be missed.
*Review by Miss Audrey


Sanity and Tallulah by Molly Brooks
For Ages: 8 – 12

Growing up in a space station can be hard: limited food choices, you’re always the last one to get the latest episodes of the coolest shows, and, worst of all, NO PETS. Well, no pets if you aren’t a genius like Sanity who can bioengineer your own three-headed kitten (Princes Sparkle, Destroyer of Worlds), and the food to feed her (also highly experimental. But that shouldn’t be a problem. Right?). But what happens when the kitten escapes into the duct work of the ship, and malfunctions start to pop up, seemingly in her wake? Can Sanity and her best friend and co-mischief-maker, Tallulah, find the kitten in time to save the space station, or is it curtains for them all? A fast plot, fantastic dialogue, stellar character development, and one of the most fleshed-out settings of the year make this book stand out. Perfect for anyone who likes a good story, of any kind, and the kitten is cute.
*Review by Miss Audrey


Mega Robo Bros by Neill Cameron
For Ages: 10 and up

Robot brothers, Freddy and Alex, are just trying to live a normal life. They go to school, go on field trips, have loving human parents, and just happen to be the world’s most advanced robots created by a secret government research group. The brothers have become the target of an unknown enemy causing havoc across their home city of London. Will Freddy and Alex discover the villain’s identity before it’s too late? What secrets are their parents keeping from them? Can the brothers stop squabbling long enough to save the day? This graphic novel, featuring one of the most realistic sets of brothers (robot or human) in memory, is a must read for every action/adventure and sci-fi fan on your list.
*Review by Ms. Amanda A.


Be Prepared  by Vera Brosgol
For Ages: 10 – 14

Russian-immigrant Vera doesn’t seem to fit in no matter where she goes. Her single mother is in school to make a better life for the family, but it has left them short on funds, meaning Vera sticks out like a sore thumb in their affluent neighborhood. When all of the other girls start talking about summer camp, Vera is struck with an idea: she could go to Russian summer camp with other immigrant kids! It takes some scheming, but her mother agrees. Sadly, it doesn’t go as planned. Just for a start, Vera is stuck in a bunk with much older girls, the boys are mean, and the toilettes are dreadful. How will she survive the summer alive? Will she ever make a friend? Based off the life experiences of the author and her siblings, Be Prepared is funny, well-drawn, insightful, and emotionally authentic. We’ve all felt like outsiders at one time or another, and this book will resonate with practically everyone.
*Review by Miss Audrey

Non-Fiction

Meet My Family: Animal Babies and Their Families by Laura Purdie Salas, illustrated by Stephanie Fizer Coleman
For Ages: 4 – 8

This adorable and informative nonfiction book celebrates the diversity of animal families! Learn about where these babies live, how they get their nourishment, and who takes care of them. A raccoon kit snuggles their single mother in the den, while a chinstrap penguin chick awaits a tasty fish from one of their two dads. Of all the information in this book about the natural world, perhaps the most important piece is that every family is wonderfully different.
*Review by Miss Taylor


Whose Baby Butt? By Stan Tekiela
For Ages: 4 – 8

Who can get past the adorable face of a baby animal? I bet you may have never noticed the backside of these adorable animals. This interactive tale will surely provide many giggles along with a new perspective about these cute cuddly young animals.
*Review by Miss Jill


Bonkers About Beetles by Owen Davey
For Ages: 5 – 9

Curious minds will fall in love with this book! Davey does a fantastic job at presenting information, that hasn’t been watered-down, to people of all ages. This is the fourth book in the About Animals series. The illustrations, drawn in a retro design, give readers an accurate idea of the insect but are still enjoyable for the more squeamish child.  This book covers shape, life cycle, beetle defense, and more!
*Review by Miss Amber


Look At Me! How to Attract Attention in the Animal World by Steve Jenkins and Robin Page
For Ages: 6 – 12

Full of gorgeous, eye-catching illustrations and intriguing facts, this is sure to delight young readers who love learning about animals.  Additional information at the end furthers the learning opportunities with a brief description of each of the animals and a list of recommended titles and websites.
*Review by Miss Amanda M.


Plant, Cook, Eat! A Children’s Cookbook by Joe Archer and Caroline Craig
For Ages: 7 – 12

Jump on board the farm-to-table movement! The well-photographed illustrations with vivid text makes for an inviting easy read for aspiring young gardeners and chefs.
*Review by Miss Jill


Just Breathe: Meditation, Mindfulness, Movement, and More by Mallika Chopra, illustrated by Brenna Vaughan
For Ages: 9 and up

Wrapped up in our own stresses, we grown-ups often forget that children have their own stress and anxieties. A popular practice used by grown-ups to combat this stress, mindfulness offers a toolkit of activities to help us to be calm, think clearly, and deal with challenges as they arise.  Just Breathe is a wonderfully thorough, concise, and accessible introduction/guide to mindfulness and mediation. The practices and exercises (focusing on breathing, movement, and mediation) in Chopra’s book offer kids tools to help improve their focus, alleviate stress, and just, in general, be happier.  Suggested for all children (and their stressed out grown-ups).
*Review by Ms. Amanda A.


The Elephant Whisperer by Lawrence Anthony
For Ages: 10 – 16

African Elephants are magnificent creatures, and Lawrence Anthony describes his journey with a wild herd.  Photographic images capture the unlikely partnership on his game reserve and the many milestones encountered along the way. This true story, rewritten for the younger reader from his adult memoir, may even inspire you to plan an African Safari!
*Review by Miss Trish


StarTalk: Young Readers Edition by Neil deGrasse Tyson and Charles Liu
For Ages: 10 and up

For every kid you know that is curious about the world and universe that we live in, this book is a power punch of information. Can we avoid the fate of the dinosaurs? What do astronauts eat in space? Which is a bigger threat: zombie viruses or real viruses? When will we be able to travel through time? Featuring four sections focusing on space, the earth, being human, and the future, Tyson and Liu condense and simplify the answers to these and many, many, many more questions.  StarTalk: Young Readers Edition is a companion to the popular podcast and television show by the same name. For every future scientist and curious kid on your list.
*Review by Ms. Amanda A.


Venturegirls: Raising Girls to be Tomorrow’s Leaders by Dr. Cristal Glangchai
For Parents / Caregivers

Engineer, entrepreneur, and CEO of a tech startup, Dr. Cristal Glangchai shares her recommendations for giving young girls the tools to pursue STEM fields and entrepreneurship.  This book is full of ideas, activities, and information. Included throughout the text are anecdotes from girls as young as five-years-old through adults, all recounting their real-world successes and failures. A wonderful resource for parents raising their daughters to reach for their dreams and their sons to recognize and respect the talent and intelligence of girls.
*Review by Miss Amanda M.

Graphic Novels

By Miss Audrey, Youth Services Dept. Librarian

So, you’re at a get-together of some kind, minding your own business, when someone asks you a reader’s most dreaded question:

“What’s your favorite book?”

As if we can name just one! Honestly, it’s hard enough to narrow it down to one genre sometimes, or one format, or one author, let alone just one title! And the answer changes depending on your age, mood, situation, how the planets align, etc. So, really, the question is just plain impossible.

That being said, I do have one constant preference: I love graphic novels. Not every single one I read, necessarily, but, on the whole, they are one of my favorite kinds of books. Many of my favorite books are graphic novels, as well.

I still haven’t been able to pick just one favorite graphic novel from 2018, though, so I decided to write reviews for several. I hope you enjoy!


Peter and Ernesto: A Tale of Two Sloths by Graham Annable
Age Range: 6 – 10

Peter and Ernesto are the best of friends who do everything together in their tree. They eat, sleep, and look at the sky. Until one day, Ernesto comes down with a case of wanderlust that scares Peter to the core: he wants to see all of the sky. Promising to tell Peter all about it upon his return, Ernesto rushes off to have adventures. Peter waits for him as long as he can (which is not that long) before fears for his friend’s safety force him to follow, albeit much more slowly. They manage to have completely different journeys, despite their partially overlapping trails, and at the end are overjoyed to be reunited. This is a funny, simply-drawn book with depth, perfect for kids who are starting to get the hang of reading. The artist’s ability to convey emotion with just a few lines is staggering, and the plot moves quickly without being predictable. Just about perfect for any young reader.


Mr. Wolf’s Class by Aron Nels Steinke
Age Range: 7 – 10

It’s the first day of fourth grade, and Mr. Wolf’s first day of teaching EVER! This delightful, slice-of-life novel follows Mr. Wolf and his students through their day, from getting ready for school to riding the bus home. Some of the characters include Penny, a pig, who is desperate to get some sleep because her baby sibling kept her up all night; Margot, a rabbit, who just moved to town the day before; Sampson, an energetic frog, whose day is simply not going to plan; and more! While this story is definitely a gentle read, there are some plot twists: a student gets lost! Rats steal lunches! Did another teacher steal Mr. Wolf’s stapler? An excellent portrayal of an average school day that students will easily see themselves in: a low-key win and fun series starter for kids who prefer easy-going plots.


The Cardboard Kingdom by Chad Sell
Age Range: 8 – 12

A multi-authored ode to individuality, imagination, friendship, and summer. It starts with just one brother-sister pair (the Sorceress and the Imp), making alter-ego costumes out of cardboard and craft supplies, and spreads like wildfire to every kid in their neighborhood. Pretty soon they are joined by the Knight, the Huntress, Beast Boy, Big Banshee, the Mad Scientist, an evil robot and more, all with skin tones, cultures, and backgrounds as diverse as their characters. Each episode lasts a few pages, with plots ranging from the humorous to the heartfelt, and together they tell the story of how the kids come to make a team by summer’s end. A crowd-pleasing favorite – not to be missed.


City on the Other Side written by Mairghread Scott, illustrated by Robin Robinson
Age Range: 8 – 12

Isabel loves her city, San Francisco, and longs to see more of it first hand. Her high-society mother, however, has different ideas, and sends the girl to live with her artist father in the countryside for the summer. Little do the humans realize that a war between the Seelie and Unseelie fairy courts is coming to a dangerous head, and Isabel’s about to walk right into the thick of things! Can Isabel and her new-found friends (including an animate mushroom and a Filipino boy named Benjie) complete their quest and save the city they love? The gorgeous, detailed illustrations immediately immerse readers in a complex world full of fascinating magical creatures from around the globe, and the fast-paced plot keeps the pages turning. Fantasy and adventure lovers will eat this up!


Mega Robo Bros by Neill Cameron
Age Range: 8 – 12

Brothers Alex and Freddy aren’t completely certain where they came from, but they DO know that they are the most advanced robots in the world. Or are they? Strange attacks keep occurring all over the city, clearly planned by some kind of mastermind, and they seem to be centered on the boys.
An action-packed series starter, starring two of the most realistic kids in comics today. Alex and Freddy squabble, go to school, and fly around a beautifully diverse future London, growing up and making hard choices along the way. The family dynamic between the boys and their human parents is one of the best parts of the story, but the plotline never lags, either. Perfect series starter for a high-energy reader.


Be Prepared by Vera Brosgol
Age Range: 10 – 14

Russian-immigrant Vera doesn’t seem to fit in no matter where she goes. Her single mother is in school to make a better life for the family, but it has left them short on funds, meaning Vera sticks out like a sore thumb in their affluent neighborhood. When all of the other girls start talking about summer camp, Vera is struck with an idea: she could go to Russian summer camp, with other immigrant kids! It takes some scheming, but her mother agrees. Sadly, it doesn’t go as planned. Just as a start, Vera is stuck in a bunk with much older girls, the boys are mean, and the toilettes are dreadful. How will she survive the summer alive? Will she ever make a friend? Based off the life experiences of the author and her siblings, Be Prepared is funny, well-drawn, insightful, and emotionally authentic. We’ve all felt like outsiders at one time or another, and this book will resonate with practically everyone.

Out of Your World Adventures

by Miss Audrey, Youth Services Dept. Librarian

Alas, summer is drawing to a close. The new school year is nearly upon us. But that’s no reason for the adventures to stop! Whether your child’s reading tastes run to sci-fi or magic, try some of the following series starters to keep the summer expeditionary spirit alive!



The Unicorn Rescue Society: The Creature of the Pines  by Adam Gidwitz, illustrated by Hatem Aly
For Ages 7 – 10

Elliot is starting at a new school – three weeks into the semester! Who does that? And his first day is a field trip to the New Jersey Pine Barrens, led by the decidedly odd Professor Fauna (who may or may not have a torture chamber in the basement of the school). One good thing: on the bus to the Barrens, he meets and befriends Uchenna, a quick-thinking, free spirited girl who balances out his analytical and anxious personality. Their partnership will definitely come in handy, because they will meet something strange in the Pines, and that’s only the beginning!

An excellent series starter for kids who are getting comfortable with chapter books, but who aren’t yet ready for epics like Harry Potter. A fun read, with quick, short chapters, engaging characters, and lively illustrations: it’s a guaranteed good time!


Arlo Finch in the Valley of Fire  by John August
For Ages 8 – 12

Arlo likes to have emergency plans to follow in case things go wrong, but before moving to his mother’s tiny rural hometown of Pine Mountain, Colorado, nothing could have prepared him for wisps, night mares, and other eldritch creatures who seem to have it in for him. Happily, his new friends in his Ranger troop can help! They’re used to living so close to the otherworldly Long Woods, and they have knowledge and know-how up their sleeves. They’re also used to teamwork. Surely, together they can keep Arlo safe, at least until they figure out why he’s in danger to begin with? Arlo is a likeable main character, and his troop is one I’d love to join. This fun, fast-reading series starter is too good to pass up – give it the old Ranger try!


Chronicle of the Dark Star: The Last Day on Mars and The Oceans Between Stars  by Kevin Emerson
For Ages 8 – 12

It’s the year 2213, and humans are evacuating the solar system. The sun is expanding and has already destroyed the Earth. Most humans have left in their colony ships, but a handful of scientists and their families remain on Mars, awaiting the final experimental results that will help the species terraform their new planet. Friends Liam and Phoebe’s parents are the last scientists working, which means they’re the last to leave the planet. On their scheduled day of departure, strange things start happening which the duo can’t resist investigating. What they learn will change everything – but with the sun creeping closer and mysterious forces at work, will they be able to get off of Mars in time?

The Oceans Between Stars picks up where the first book leaves off, and the third book is scheduled to come out in early 2019. This is an excellent series, full of different alien species, action, secrets, intrigue, cool intergalactic settings, divided loyalties, and deep questions about what is right, wrong, and necessary. The focus is mostly on Liam in the first book, but Phoebe starts to get in her point of view in book  two. Both are relatable, believable characters trying to figure out the best way through a series of difficult situations. Hand this to any kid who would like to disappear into the cosmos for a while.


Kiranmala and the Kingdom Beyond Book 1: The Serpent’s Secret  by Sayantani DasGupta
For Ages 8 – 12

Kiranmala’s parents are always going on about how she’s a Real Indian Princess, but now that she’s turning 12, she’s getting fed up. She knows that she’s just another 6th grader from New Jersey – she doesn’t need that kind of nonsense. Until she comes home from school on her birthday to find her parents gone, and a hungry, flesh-eating demon breaks into the kitchen. When two (dreamy-looking) princes on flying horses show up, telling her she needs to come with them, she figures she doesn’t have any better options, especially if she wants to get her family back. The adventure just takes off from there, full of riddles, movable maps, and demons, magic, and creatures of various types. Kiran herself is a tough, independent-minded, clever girl who adapts quickly, despite being so thoroughly out of her depth. Basically, this series starter is everything a mythology lover might want.


Max Tilt: Fire the Depths  by Peter Lerangis
For Ages 9 – 12

Max Tilt has just been knocked off kilter in a big way. His mom is sick and out of town with his father, getting tests done, and Max has been left in the care of his college-age cousin, Alex (whom Max barely knows), when the utilities cut out and they learn that the house is being foreclosed on. While the cousins scramble to find money and solutions, they discover that 20,000 Leagues Under The Sea, the sci-fi epic penned by their ancestor, Jules Verne, wasn’t fiction after all and is actually a treasure map. They set out to retrace Verne’s footsteps, encountering avalanches in the mountains, attacks by giant squid, and deadly whirlpools, none of which are as dangerous as the other humans out to get the treasure first.

This book ticks every adventure box possible: excitement, danger, bad guys, unexpected allies, jokes, grand scenery, a diverse cast (Max and Alex are both mixed-race), and a satisfying resolution. As an added bonus, Max is a smart, fast-thinking kid on the autism spectrum, while Alex is a take-charge heroine with a great sense of humor. Even better? The sequel came out in July, based on Verne’s Around the World in 80 Days. Hand this to your favorite thrill-seeker today!

It's All Natural

by Miss Audrey, Youth Services Dept. Librarian

At long last, Northeast Ohio has broken free from the cruel bonds of winter; let spring prevail! For a short time, anyway, before we dive headlong into summer!

The children who frequent the library are greatly enjoying their long-anticipated outdoor time, and they serve as inspiration for this post’s subject: nature science picture books! They’re a perfect way to explore the great outdoors when spring showers and summer storms keep antsy little ones inside. So whether your kids are into big animals, plants, or dinosaurs, we should have something here to keep your family satisfied.


A Leap for Legadema: The True Story of a Little Leopard in a Big World  by Beverly and Dereck Joubert
For Ages 4 – 8
Nonfiction

The creators of this book spent four years following a young leopard cub (the titular Legadema) and her mother, taking pictures and learning about how a leopard grows from a tiny cub to an independent adult. This book is a result of those labors, and it is full of bright colors and lively photographs. The text is solid, and the photos and behind-the-scenes information about leopard life will satisfy big cat fans. A good book for leopard lovers.


The Truth About Hippos: Seriously Funny Facts About Your Favorite Animals  by Maxwell Eaton III
For Ages 4 – 8
Nonfiction

A tongue-in-cheek expose of one of Earth’s largest land mammals, this picture book is a good blend of comics-style artwork and interesting, child-friendly facts. Kids will learn that there are two types of hippos (common and pygmy), and what those varieties like to eat, how they spend their days and nights, and other living habits. A great choice for kids who like to giggle as they learn.


A Seed is the Start  by Melissa Stewart
For Ages 4 – 9
Nonfiction

With simple text and clear, bright photographic illustrations, this is a wonderful choice for learning about plants. The book opens with a glossary (“Words to Know”), then describes how seeds start to grow. A substantial portion of the text discusses how seeds spread out to find clear spaces to sprout (floating, gliding, hitching a ride on animals, etc.), before the book concludes with an index and suggestions for further learning. Colorful and engaging, this should capture any youngster’s attention, even those who know little about plants.


The Seal Garden  by Ian McAllister and Nicholas Read
For Ages 6 – 9
Nonfiction

In this latest installment of the “My Great Bear Rainforest” series, the gorgeously vivid underwater photography completely steals the show. Kids will pore over the illustrations of marine mammals (seals and otters of various species) as they hang about in kelp forests and on nearby beaches. When they get around to the (incredibly readable) text, children will learn how these animals stay safe and find food in their northern environment. A beautiful selection for budding zoologists.


In The Past: From Trilobites to Dinosaurs to Mammoths in More Than 500 Million Years  by David Elliott, illustrated by Matthew Trueman
For Ages 3 – 7
Nonfiction poetry

Short, snappy, amusing poems about prehistoric animals, starting with trilobites in the Cambrian Period and moving steadily through time until the mammoths in the Quaternary Period. The illustrations are a blend of realistic and goofy and match the tone of the verses perfectly. An author’s note at the end fills in a few extra details about why certain creatures were chosen for the book and the eras when they lived. A fun selection for dinosaur lovers and prehistory buffs.

Why Poetry?

By Miss Audrey, Youth Services Dept. Librarian

I distinctly remember my mother reading poetry to me when I was quite young. Shel Silverstein, A.A. Milne (of Winnie the Pooh fame), and rhyming picture books regularly made their way into our read-aloud sessions. We loved them, and still quote our favorite lines to each other whenever we get the chance. Despite this, by the time I got to college, I had formed a less-than-stellar relationship with poetry.

I think it had something to do with the way the subject was taught at my high school. The poetry we learned there was old, impressive, important, and full of themes, motifs, and whatnots. While I was impressed and fascinated by the beauty and imagery in the pieces, they always felt distant. They weren’t something I could cozy up to and read for the fun of it, but something meant to be studied and taken seriously. In my head, reading poetry was the kind of work that required time and brainpower.

I think our kids deserve better than that.

As an adult, I’ve had the great luck to discover that poetry is a living, vibrant, meaningful thing that absolutely can be enjoyed in sips as well as gulps. It can be happy, sad, funny, touching, and, yes, it can require deep thinking, but not necessarily hours of study, to understand.

These days, I’m a huge fan of National Poetry month. In my experience, poetry:

* Broadens our world view by showing us things from a different perspective
* Introduces new vocabulary, and the idea that playing with words can be fun
* Helps people (including kids) embrace and use their own personal voice in a way unique to them

In short, poetry is priceless.

With that in mind, we of the Children’s Department have included the names and brief reviews of some of our favorite works of poetry published for kids in 2017 – early 2018. We hope you are able to use these books to build up your children’s love of language to be so strong that it’ll take more than a dull poetry class to knock it back out.

Happy National Poetry Month!


Animal Ark: Celebrating Our Wild World in Poetry and Pictures photographs by Joel Sartore, words by Kwame Alexander
For ages 4 – 8

The stunning, vivid, gorgeously detailed photographs are the real show-stoppers here, but the poems are also worth the price of admission. Each page features a different species of animal against a solid background (either black or white), punctuated by brightly colored haiku. Published by National Geographic Kids, the creators’ hope is that, in coming face-to-face with these animals, readers will be more apt to protect them and their habitats. They make a very compelling argument. Share today.


Can I Touch Your Hair? Poems of Race, Mistakes, and Friendship by Irene Latham and Charles Waters, illustrated by Sean Qualls and Selina Alko
For ages 8 – 12

Two students, a black boy and white girl, are assigned to work together on a writing assignment. Using this fictionalized framing, poets Irene Latham and Charles Waters (who give their characters their names) write poems that look at how similar situations are experienced differently by the two characters. Latham and Waters have created an accessible and unflinching look at issues of race and culture in our schools and communities. Some of the poems are difficult, but the collection ends on a decidedly hopeful note as the two children, who originally thought themselves so very different, discover that through listening and questions, a friendship is blossoming. Highly recommended for home and school, this book is sure to generate lots of important, and timely, discussion.
(Review by Mrs. Amanda)


Cricket in the Thicket: Poems About Bugs by Carol Murray, illustrated by Melissa Sweet
For ages 6 – 10

Quick, snappy little verses about bugs fill this nicely informative collection. Each page is devoted to a different creepy-crawly, complete with cute-but-accurate portrayals in the illustrations. An informational blurb sits beneath all the poems, and every bug has a longer paragraph about it at the end of the book. Fun, factual, all-around enjoyable: should be a hit with anyone who’s interested in the subject (and might even convert those who aren’t too sure).


Earth Verse: Haiku From the Ground Up by Sally M. Walker, illustrated by William Grill
For ages 7 – 10

Earth science in haiku form might seem like an odd combination, but this book makes it work. Divided into sections devoted to minerals, rocks, fossils, and more, kids get a clever glimpse into certain elements that make up our planet. Crafty word play and impressionistic artwork in a blue-red color scheme add further interest, and informational paragraphs at the end of the book fill in some of the factual gaps. A good selection for those interested in science, as well as those who appreciate seeing how far poetry can stretch.


Family Poems for Every Day of the Week / Poemas Familiares Para Cada Dia de la Semana by Francisco X. Alarcón, illustrations by Maya Christina Gonzalez
For ages 5 – 10

This vibrant, bilingual (English/Spanish) collection is a joyous celebration of family and daily life. Following a child through their week at home and school, readers are introduced to a large, active family enmeshed in a close-knit community. Young readers (and their adults) are sure to find plenty to relate to. The artwork is stunningly stylized, with lots of Latin inspiration. A must-read for any home on the block.


I’m Just No Good At Rhyming: And Other Nonsense For Mischievous Kids And Immature Grown-Ups by Chris Harris, illustrated by Lane Smith
For ages 7 – 10

These poems are funny. A great many other reviewers have compared Chris Harris’ work to Shel Silverstein’s, and while I agree that they have the same sort of feel, Harris’ style is unique to himself, and it’s wonderful. There are poems in here perfect for reading out loud, perfect for reading to one’s self, and perfect for giggling so hard one has to take a moment to breathe. Mr. Smith’s illustrations are equally fantastic and match the tenor of the poems beautifully. Hats off, gentlemen – you’ve made a delightful thing.


Song of the Wild: A First Book of Animals by Nicola Davies, illustrated by Petr Horáček
For ages 3 – 7

Split into several sections (“Big and Small,” “Colors and Shapes,” etc.), these poetic observations about the natural world will capture the attention of little zoologists everywhere. Combined with striking, textured illustrations in saturated colors, these poems will transport young readers under the sea, into the jungle treetops, and everywhere else that animals thrive. Just be prepared for a lot of questions when the kids’ curiosity gets fired up! An A+ selection.

Annual Youth Media Award Winners

By Miss Audrey, Youth Services Dept. Librarian

February 12, 2018, was a very exciting day for children’s and teen librarians (as well as other youth literature aficionados) up and down the countryside. Why, you ask? Because it was the day that the American Library Association announced its annual Youth Media Awards!

Essentially, it is the Oscars® of the youth literature world. People wait with bated breath to see which books will earn bright, shiny award stickers for their covers and be set on the path toward relative immortality.

So, who won? A selected list of award winners and reviews is below. For the complete list, see the ALA Youth Media Awards website.


The John Newbery Medal for “the most outstanding contribution to children’s literature” went to:

Hello Universe by Erin Entrada Kelly
Ages 8 – 12 years

Virgil: shy, lonely (even with his guinea pig Gulliver around), trying to figure himself out. Kaori: self-assured seer who knows herself and the mystic secrets (assisted by little sister, Gen). Valencia: smart, brave, scientific explorer (who is also deaf). Chet: neighborhood bully, wants to be just like his dad (knows nothing about snakes). These four narrators alternate chapters to tell what happened that fateful day when Virgil fell afoul of Chet and got stuck in a hopeless place. Will the girls realize he’s gone and find him in time? Full of authentic, diverse young voices and moments of humor, bravery, and fear, this is a book no one should miss.

The John Newbery Honor Books are:
Crown: An Ode to the Fresh Cut written by Derrick Barnes, illustrated by Gordon C. James
Long Way Down  by Jason Reynolds
Piecing Me Together  by Renée Watson


The Randolph Caldecott Medal for “the most distinguished American picture book for children” was awarded to:

Wolf in the Snow written and illustrated by Matthew Cordell
Ages 2 – 6 years

A girl leaves school just as a snowstorm is starting. Blinded by the same storm, a small wolf pup gets separated from its pack. Lost, they each blunder into each other. Will either find their way home? This beautiful story is told through sketchy, pen-and-ink drawings with watercolors – the only words are the animals’ sounds. The artwork perfectly complements this tale of kindness, bravery, and doing the right thing, even when it’s scary and hard.

The Randolph Caldecott Honor Books are:
Big Cat, Little Cat  illustrated and written by Elisha Cooper
Crown: An Ode to the Fresh Cut  illustrated by Gordon C. James, written by Derrick Barnes
A Different Pond  illustrated by Thi Bui, written by Bao Phi
Grand Canyon  illustrated and written by Jason Chin


The Theodor Seuss Geisel Award for “the most distinguished book for beginning readers” was earned by:

Charlie & Mouse by Laurel Snyder
Age: 4 – 8 years

Charlie and Mouse are a winsome pair of brothers, and this book (the first in a series) traces their imaginative daily adventures with simple yet funny word play and visual details. Each little chapter is its own semi-separate story, so it’s easy to put down and pick back up for your beginning-reader-on-the-go. A great choice for families looking for something with a similar flavor to the “Frog and Toad” series, except maybe a bit easier. Truly charming.

The Geisel Honor Books are:
I See A Cat  written and illustrated by Paul Meisel
King & Kayla and the Case of the Missing Dog Treats written by Dori Hillestad Butler, illustrated by Nancy Meyers
My Kite is Stuck! And Other Stories  written and illustrated by Salina Yoon
Noodleheads See the Future  written by Tedd Arnold, Martha Hamilton and Mitch Weiss, illustrated by Tedd Arnold
Snail & Worm Again  written and illustrated by Tina Kügler


The Schneider Family Book Award is “for books that embody an artistic expression of the disability experience.”

The Award winner for young children (ages 0 – 8) is:

Silent Days, Silent Dreams  written and illustrated by Allen Say
Ages 8 – up

This graphic-novel style fictional biography imagines the early life of James Castle, an artist who was born two months premature in 1899. Castle was deaf, mute, probably autistic, and he never learned how to communicate via speech or sign language. Instead, he taught himself how to make art in his own unique style, to visually show how he saw the world. Allen Say’s artwork closely mimics Castle’s oeuvre while relating this interpretation of his story. Thought-provoking and evocative – this one is certain to be a conversation starter.

The Award winner for middle grade (ages 9 – 13) is:

Macy McMillan and the Rainbow Goddess  written by Shari Green

And the Award winner for teens (ages 14 – 18) is: 

You’re Welcome, Universe  written and illustrated by Whitney Gardner


Other children’s literature awards given out by the American Library Association include:

Coretta Scott King Book Awards recognizing African American authors and illustrators of outstanding books for children and young adults.

Coretta Scott King/John Steptoe New Talent Award to affirm new talent.

Pura Belpré Awards honoring Latino writers and illustrators whose children’s books best portray, affirm and celebrate the Latino cultural experience.

Robert F. Sibert Informational Book Award for most distinguished informational book for children.

Stonewall Book Award–Mike Morgan & Larry Romans Children’s & Young Adult Literature Award given annually to English-language children’s and young adult books of exceptional merit relating to the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender experience.


So, if you’re looking for good, up-to-date reading materials, please visit the ALA website for past and present winners.