Ferris by Kate DiCamillo

What worked:

The most interesting and entertaining character is Ferris’s six-year-old sister Pinky. Consider that her big goal in life is to find her name and face on Wanted posters all across the country. She’s sassy and rude and Sheriff Percal says, “… I have never in my life met anyone so unrepentant”. It’s wild that she’s only six years old but she comes from a kind and supportive home. Her grandmother claims to see a ghost in her bedroom and her uncle believes God has told him to paint the history of the world. They, along with Pinky’s parents and Ferris, are doing all they can to understand Pinky but there seems to be no reason for her behavior. Despite her inconsiderate, unlawful actions, readers will enjoy the anticipation of what Pinky might do next.

Ferris and her best friend Billy Jackson are thankful that last year’s teacher emphasized the importance of good vocabulary. Ferris frequently points out “Mielk vocabulary words” and follows them with explanations or definitions of their meanings. You might think these descriptions will be uninteresting but they emphasize the importance of the words. Mrs. Mielk says the difference between the right word and the almost right word is “… the difference between lightning and lightning bug”. Young readers may expand their vocabularies as a couple of Mielk words appear in most chapters. Ludicrous is a perfect word for Ferris’s aunt to describe Uncle Ted speaking to God and monomaniacal perfectly explains Pinky’s obsession with becoming an outlaw.

The theme of “Every story is a love story” underscores most of the events in the plot. Charisse believes Ferris must light the chandelier in the dining room to resolve her ghostly visions. Uncle Ted misses Aunt Shirley even though she thinks he’s crazy to devote his life to making a painting for God. Mrs. Mielk is bereft after losing her husband and it turns out Charisse has a lifelong admirer. Even Ferris realizes an undiscovered love for her little sister. The author skillfully wields her talent for storytelling and guides the plot to a magical climax under the christened chandelier.

What didn’t work as well:

The storyline skips around a bit and some young readers might not appreciate some challenging Mielk words. However, the free-flowing plot reflects reality in a peculiar household and balances drama with amusement.

The final verdict:

The author crafts another heart-warming tale that will appeal to middle-grade readers. The colorful characters are engaging and the message of love is featured. Overall, the book offers a positive message to the world and I recommend you give it a shot.

The Secret of the Magic eyePad by Marsha Tufft

What worked:

The focus on STEM allows the book to be instructive and educational too. Actually, Putney’s new school is piloting STEAM where art is incorporated with the other areas of study. Her family has just moved from Alaska to Hilton Head, South Carolina, so the setting provides many opportunities to enjoy nature. The story opens with Putney adding to her live butterfly collection as she studies their metamorphosis from caterpillars to chrysalis, to butterflies. Her school is introducing underwater hockey which the book says is growing in popularity around the world. Putney’s first school assignment is to design a new sit-upon that will be used while they’re making sketches around the beach. The book uses the activity to explain a process for rapid prototypes by describing the steps and including drawings.

The plot often focuses on the conflict between Putney and a rich, snobby girl named Sue Wexford. Sue donates clothes to Goodwill and she notices Putney is wearing some of her old capris. Sue immediately targets Putney as being below her social status and makes it her mission to prove her superiority. However, Putney has aspirations to become an artist or architect so she possesses a great deal of creativity and technical knowledge. Being in the STEAM environment inspires her to come up with innovative ideas in the sit-upon contest that prove to challenge Sue’s concepts. Sue proves to be a deceitful, conniving character and her underhanded strategies pit her as the story’s villain.

The role of the eyePad pixie named Sam isn’t as prominent as expected but that’s okay in a story about STEM education. Sam is comparable to a 3-D holographic image of Siri or Alexa, that no one else can see, that can perform all of the functions of a computerized virtual assistant. Sam offers advice and research but Putney is the one with ideas and plans. Sam sometimes acts as a moral compass and questions Putney about her decisions. An intriguing twist is that Sam can create materials from nothing but it uses up magical power being used for her to exist. Using this ability may become a countdown to Sam’s demise somewhere in the series. Additional trouble arises when Sue spots Putney’s eyePad.

What didn’t work as well:

The book doesn’t develop much of a conflict other than Putney’s problems with Sue Wexford. Putney feels a need to beat the girl in the sit-upon competition while Sue is determined to get the better of Putney. The book’s overall feel is like a collection of subplots but it doesn’t generate much drama and tension. The conflict involving Sue and the eyePad doesn’t grow into a suspenseful issue so it’s a missed opportunity.

The final verdict:

The focus on STEM, or STEAM, is a fresh approach to a middle-grade novel and the author takes the time to explain innovations and creativity. The lack of suspense may not excite some readers and they may tire of the informative aspect in some parts of the book. Overall, this book is a fun read about creativity and friends and I recommend you give it a shot.

Rain Falling on Embers by Liana Gardner

What worked:

The author expertly describes Katie’s emotional issues as she struggles to deal with the expectations of others and her father’s illness. She succumbs to the pressure of being the sheriff’s daughter and never feels like she’s good enough. Her rebellious behavior emerges as she experiments with drinking and smoking cigarettes in the opening pages. Katie’s anger is compounded when she’s sent to live with her uncle and cousins but it causes her to speak and act rudely toward them. She’s aware her actions are inappropriate but still uses them to upset her relatives, teachers, and principals. However, Katie also feels remorse so her behavior is complicated. Despite the challenges presented by Katie, her uncle maintains a firm, controlled behavior and does his best to support her. The man is a saint even if Katie doesn’t realize it.

Continuing the idea of emotions and feelings, the author takes the time to develop Katie’s character through pages and chapters of vivid details. An immediate conflict is created between Katie and an entitled boy named Denton and their contentious relationship quickly becomes a feud. Readers are inside Kate’s mind as she seethes inside and battles to harness the fury she’s experiencing throughout the whole book. Several chapters are used to fully express Katie’s devastation following her father’s death. There’s the immediate sorrow associated with great loss but her emotions shift into anger and regret as she slowly realizes the life she’ll no longer have. Katie’s complex feelings lead to bad choices but she’s further infuriated when others don’t believe her when she tells the truth.

The conflict with Denton isn’t always at the forefront of the plot but readers will experience the tension as it builds out of control. Denton’s father owns the bank and most of the property and businesses in town and Denton portrays the role of a spoiled kid who is used to getting away with everything he says and does. Readers will detest him when he insults Katie’s father and uncle but they’ll realize he crosses the line when he disparages Katie’s deceased mother. Katie slugs him, Denton behaves unexpectedly, and the pair spend the rest of the plot trying to get revenge for each other’s actions. Denton’s final attack will take the story to an ultimate climax.

What didn’t work as well:

Young readers may be surprised by the stereotypical roles of men and women. Katie’s cousin Sarah gets meals ready for her uncle and male cousins and then cleans the house while the men go off to work. The biggest let-down may be the epilogue as readers may want more clarity. The conflict with Denton is resolved but there’s still some uncertainty regarding what happens to Katie, Denton, and his friend Emma.

The final verdict:

The story isn’t a fast-mover but that’s because the author takes the time to fully develop the story and the characters’ feelings and personalities. Readers should be prepared to become immersed in Katie’s emotional turmoil and the mounting war with Denton. Overall, I recommend you give this poignant adventure.

Treasonous Tycoon (The Adventures of the Flash Gang 2) by M.M. Downing & S.J. Waugh

What worked:

The book is set in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, during the Great Depression and the descriptions of that time in history make it historical fiction. The plot centers on streeters, kids living on the streets, and their struggles to survive. They shoplift, pickpocket, and do random menial jobs, anything to find food and shelter from the elements. Some of them even run errands for the mob or sell information to those who can afford it. The steelworkers during the Depression are struggling too and there is unrest between them and the factory owners. Hitler is gaining power in Europe (a few years before WW II) and he’s being supported by the antagonists in this book. The concept of fascist sympathizers underlies the conflict in the plot and highlights an issue that’s not often talked about. Pittsburgh suffered one of its worst natural disasters in 1936 and the book reflects this when the city is devastated by a torrential flood.

Lewis, or Brain, is the leader of the Flash Gang, although he is determined to not use the Recipe again. The Recipe is a mixture of powders from the previous book that creates a blinding flash of light allowing Lewis to steal food for his gang, the church, and others in need. The four members of his gang behave like a family and they combine their efforts to survive. However, the enemies of Lewis and Pearl think they’re dead, and using the Recipe again will let those enemies realize Lewis and Pearl are still alive. Young Mac doesn’t understand why using the Recipe is a big problem and he’s angry at Lewis for not using it to keep them from feeling starved all of the time. A huge problem arises when Mac disappears from their hideout after Lewis chooses not to use the Recipe to rescue him at a critical moment.

As always, Pearl is a highlight of the book. She calls herself Lola and Lewis is called Sir Nigel after characters from her favorite radio show. She talks incessantly and her creative mind generates various stories out of the most mundane tasks. She often speaks of her father, a world-famous explorer, and it’s hard for Lewis to tell when to separate her imagination from reality. She was mistreated while staying with her aunt so she’s now living with Lewis in an abandoned factory. Pearl quickly gets worked up when she even thinks about Nazis and she has her sights on J.J. Pickering, a major Pittsburgh benefactor and entrepreneur. Lewis and her determination to stop Pickering the ongoing conflict in the series.

What didn’t work as well:

Much of the book follows Lewis as he investigates the disappearance of many streeters but Pearl is absent for chunks of the story. The interest level drops a little when she is gone even though the author continues to develop the mystery of the streeters. Pearl adds flair to the story and she will reappear at the most critical moments.

The final verdict:

The book continues the wonderful underdog story of the Flash Gang. I recommend you begin with the first book but it’s probably not essential to enjoy this one. The flooding in the second half of the book provides an exciting, natural complication to the plot that enhances the conflict with Pickering. Overall, young readers will become engrossed with Lewis and his gang and I highly recommend you give this book a shot.

The Kid by Jeff Schill

What worked:

The plot is extremely unique for middle-grade readers. First off, there aren’t many books about Wild West gunslingers that feature young characters. The author builds the Old West climate through descriptions of the setting, actions, and the characters’ language. A thief and gunslinger named Snake-Eye Sam crosses hot, dusty plains on horseback to Destiny, Colorado, and spends nights under the stars. He makes stops along the way to rob stores and travelers, often riling himself up into a mood to kill. Surprisingly, the author never actually describes Sam shooting or murdering anyone so it’s appropriate for middle-grade readers. The scenes include tobacco spitting, drinking sarsaparilla (not Sam though!), and encountering rattlesnakes. Readers will let their finds drift back to the 1800s to immerse themselves in the Wild West.

Four different stories are told featuring four different main characters. Perhaps the most important perspective features The Kid, a young boy who’s a quick-draw gunslinger. Other chapters focus on Henry and his brothers as Henry creates stories of The Kid to keep thieves and the state away from their family farm. Another point of view features Sam who has eyes on building his reputation by killing The Kid. Finally, another narrative follows a magazine editor named Harold who’s traveling West to find out why he hasn’t been receiving more stories about The Kid. Harold is naïve about this part of the country and has a lot to learn.

The author builds the plot up to the much-anticipated climax between Snake-Eye Sam and The Kid. The Kid is a fictional character wearing an over-sized hat but readers will immediately note that Henry also wears his father’s too-large cowboy hat. Sam’s anger grows whenever he hears the magazine stories about The Kid so his fury builds to an inferno by the time he reaches Destiny. The big question for readers is how Henry, a boy with zero talent for guns, can survive a showdown with a ruthless, skilled killer. Henry’s main asset is his brain but can that defeat a six-shooter?

What didn’t work as well:

The timeline of the different points of view is a little confusing. The book opens with a tale of The Kid and later chapters describe the outlaw Snake-Eye Sam, the magazine employee Herbert, and finally Henry and his brothers. The strange thing is the introduction of Henry creating The Kid comes after the book has already shared a couple of stories about The Kid. The early sections about Herbert seem out of place but they become more significant once he arrives in Destiny.

The final verdict:

It’s challenging to find middle-grade novels that stand out from others but The Kid is successfully different. Henry’s idea to save the family farm is thoughtful and creative but once readers meet Snake-Eye Sam they’ll realize a final showdown between the two is inevitable. Overall, the plot unfolds into a tense, descriptive tale and I recommend you give it a shot!

The Griffin's Egg by Cole Poindexter

What worked:

Gnish-Gnash is an intriguing character as he likes to overstate his abilities and is clearly reluctant to share some information about his past. This goblin is in possession of the last griffin egg but there’s some uncertainty surrounding how he’s gotten it. The vagueness in his comments indicates he’s hiding things from Phoebe which may make readers wonder if he’s good or bad. He’s also done something wrong among the goblins because he may not be welcome if he tries to return home. The uncertainty of his past makes him an interesting character to watch.

The plot has continuous action as Phoebe and Gnish-Gnash try to stay one step ahead of the Dark Mistress Lucinda. She’s forced some characters to recover the griffin’s egg and others hope to gain her favor once she controls all the lands. Other characters are enchanted into supporting Lucinda and are unaware of their own behaviors. The positive part of her evilness is Phoebe and Gnish-Gnash are constantly on the run which allows readers to constantly discover new magical settings and characters. Whenever the characters enter new settings, there’s always doubt as to whether they’ll encounter helpful friends or dangerous foes. The conflict between Phoebe and Lucinda is the focus of the story.

Some vagueness in Phoebe’s past makes her the most interesting character. She’s given her grandfather’s purple cape when her grandmother decides she’s responsible enough to have it. It’s a little wacky to wear a purple cape and why would she need to wait to receive it? After she enters a portal into the magical world, Phoebe discovers she’s able to change into different kinds of animals. This ability is attributed to the purple cape although other characters posit that Phoebe’s actually a witch. Maybe it’s due to the magical world itself. Readers begin to assume she’ll be able to use her powers to escape every situation but they may also wonder if she has other undiscovered abilities. It turns out that she’s a pretty smart young girl since she uses her quick thinking to come up with creative ways to use her powers. Her unending kindness creates its own form of magic.

What didn’t work as well:

Phoebe doesn’t bat an eye when she discovers a goblin, a griffin’s egg, and a portal to an enchanted world of magic which is hard to believe. The author doesn’t provide any time for Phoebe and readers to adjust to the change from reality to fantasy. There are quick transitions in action and events throughout the plot, more so in the beginning, which seems too abrupt and underdeveloped

The final verdict:

The fast-paced plot and Phoebe’s character are highlights of the book. The griffin’s egg is the catalyst for the conflict but the story goes beyond that. Overall, this book is very entertaining and I recommend you give it a shot.

The Princess Protection Program by Alex London

What worked:

I’m not a young girl but I can see them cheering for characters rebelling against fairy tale, gender-biased expectations. Rosamund is awakened after a 100-year sleep but why should that mean she must marry the well-intentioned prince and live with him forever? All of the girls at the HEA agree that getting kissed while you’re asleep is gross and wrong. However, the school has no servants and the students are responsible for completing all of the chores like dusting and cleaning the bathroom. Readers will watch Rosamund transform as she develops an appreciation for the hard work done by her former palace workers. She also becomes an independent thinker with a strong motivation to right the wrongs she encounters.

Rosamund is gifted with curiosity and she’s always been taught that the most important question to ask is “Why?” However, the headmistress and teachers disagree and tell her she needs to accept things as they are. Why? She can’t understand how the other students can answer all of the teachers’ questions, sometimes before they’re even asked. Rosamund begins to sense something is off at the school and the plot becomes a mystery to answer her questions. The story takes a dramatic turn when one of her friends disappears right before her eyes!

A fun aspect of a story based on fairy tale characters is trying to figure out the connections between the two. Rosamund is Rose Red as she fell into a deep coma after pricking her finger on an enchanted spindle. Rana comes from a tale involving a frog prince while Sirena used to be a mermaid. The characters maintain traits from their fairy tales and luckily Rana isn’t shy about breaking the rules. Cinderella and Prince Charming are represented although Charlie is the only boy at the school. Readers will discover later that he has knowledge about what’s going on that the other students do not. The characters at HEA learn to live in the real world with lessons ranging from government to using technology like cell phones and TikTok. These concepts are part of a “magical” world in the minds of fairy tale characters.

What didn’t work as well:

The narrative moves very quickly with revelations and twists arising at every turn. This style will capture the interest of readers but it limits the ability to fully develop characters other than Rosamund. This may not bother readers much but it would be nice to know more about Rona’s character too.

The Final Verdict:

This book introduces unique ideas that aren’t often seen in these types of stories. The setting and conflict are innovative and the author saves some surprises for the end. I wasn’t expecting to like this book as much as I do and I recommend you give it a shot.

Penny Draws a School Play by Sara Shepard

What worked:

This book is the sequel to Penny Draws a Best Friend and Penny continues to struggle with anxiety. She writes journal entries to her dog as a coping mechanism when she’s stressed. The author provides several worrisome incidents to create conflicts for Penny. She was getting used to her strict, fifth-grade teacher but now they’ll have a substitute for the rest of the year. The new teacher is changing the way the class play will be produced this year and everyone will have a part in it. Penny hates standing in front of the class let alone on a stage. Finally, her parents just announced they’ll be moving to a new house next week! Penny then learns that her best friend and new neighbor are “sworn enemies”. Young readers should be able to empathize with Penny and her new challenges.

The narrative is accompanied by sketch drawings that enhance the story. They’re a step up from stick figures so they’re easy to understand and follow. The pictures don’t just go along with the story as they are actually part of it. The dialogue in the illustrations fills in gaps so readers need to be sure they read the words or they’ll miss information. The drawings show interactions between characters but sometimes they show the thoughts going on inside Penny’s mind. The illustrations almost act the same way as in graphic novels but they support the text in this book.

Penny continues to visit Mrs. Hines and this teacher helps Penny and her best friends handle their issues with stress. Mrs. Hines offers helpful suggestions when they feel overwhelmed with pressure and young readers may relate to the hints too. The other kids don’t seem to lose control as much as Penny but they still offer help to each other. Petra is the one who wrote the class play, Rocco gets the lead role as a vampire, and Penny is expected to play a bat. Rocco is really stepping out of his comfort zone so he becomes Penny’s vampire twin, the two of them agreeing to stick together when they’re stressed.

What didn’t work as well:

The text in the speech bubbles is quite small when a character has a lot to say which can make the print less clear and harder to read. Also, the plot moves quickly and at a nice pace but character development is limited, except for Penny. These issues shouldn’t be big problems for young readers as the book is still very enjoyable.

The final verdict:

This book can be read independently from the first one. Penny’s character is engaging and relatable for young readers and the narrator’s voice is fitting for the upper elementary grades. The overall book is pleasant and amusing and I recommend you give it a shot.

Swift & Hawk: Undercover by Logan Macx

What worked:

Swift and Hawk are code names for Caleb and Zen, two members of a spy group located at a private school in London. Caleb’s expertise is in computer programming while Zen creates highly advanced robotic creatures. Zen is also more physically fit than most people so her agility, intelligence, and parkour talents will come in very handy to go undercover. A radical group against military weapon production plans an attack on a technology company that almost leads to devastating consequences. This group raises some challenging questions about the issue that may make readers question the business practices of big companies.

Caleb modified a video game his father created that uses an AI he calls Sam. Sam is an additional character since Caleb has programmed some personality parameters that allow it to analyze data and make suggestions. Caleb’s even trying to teach Sam how to be a little more positive when predicting how situations may turn out. Sam can decipher code, explore all areas of the internet, and help Caleb manipulate the technology he encounters. Caleb and Sam work together as a team even though Sam is a product of computer coding.

The book has a creative subplot that could be the focus of a story all by itself. Caleb’s father developed a very popular free video game called Terrorform while Caleb and Sam have improved it. Players can build settlements in the imaginary world but attacks from other players are possible. However, a conflict arises when an unknown group of players join the game and quickly grow to wreak mass destruction. Player groups are common but the transformation, development, and havoc surrounding the Nameless are unprecedented. Caleb has no idea of the identities behind the Nameless or their motives but he suspects a competing game company might be behind it. Regardless, the Nameless are ruining the game experience for all of the other players as their avatars and settlements are being systematically destroyed.

What didn’t work as well:

There is a strong dependency on Sam and he seems almost magical at times. Caleb gets ideas but Sam is often the one who handles the problems. Sam researches information, uses security cameras to monitor suspects and surroundings, and reprograms computers that present problems or obstacles. The human characters would be lost without Sam.

The final verdict:

There is a strong focus on technology so math, science, and computer lovers should enjoy the book. I suggest reading the first book before this one as I felt I wasn’t understanding some references to earlier events. Overall, the story is an exciting adventure and I recommend you give it a shot.

The Plot to Kill a Queen by Deborah Hopkinson

What worked:

The book’s format is unique as the author presents the story as a three-act play. However, the story itself is written as a familiar narrative, not the scripted format of a play. The opening pages offer a teaser about a chase scene later in the book until the narrator realizes she should probably start at the beginning. The titles of each act are shared which helps readers anticipate what’s to come. The narrator explains that the prologue talks about past events and gets the audience ready for the show. Asides are included where the narrator speaks directly to readers and shares specifics about topics related to the plays or the story in general. There’s even a soliloquy, a longer form of an aside.

Information from this time is shared which makes the book historical fiction. It describes Emilia’s clothing including her thoughts that pants would be much more comfortable and useful than petticoats and dresses. She is the main character and meets William Shakespeare early in the book (before he’s written any of his famous plays) and she discovers they share a passion for writing stories and plays. The moat protecting Queen Elizabeth’s castle is also where body waste is dropped and transportation is by horseback or carriage. The well-known conflict concerning claims to the English throne by Queen Elizabeth and Mary Queen of Scots establishes the major problem driving the plot. A section at the end of the book provides further details concerning the connections between the book and actual historical events during this time.

The narrative is told through the eyes of Emilia so readers gain insight into the complicated contrast between her thoughts and her actions. She has no experience as a spy but she’s been warned about what to expect in Mary’s castle. She remembers Shakespeare’s comments about an actor becoming their character and she heeds that advice as a lute player. Emilie’s nervousness will create empathy in readers since there’s an air of hostility from many of the castle residents she encounters. Her job is to discover how Mary is secretly communicating with supporters outside the castle which creates a mystery for readers to solve. Also, Emilia must secretly pursue her interest in writing a play as women don’t have the same opportunities as men. As always, she is accompanied by her pet dog named Mouse and the spaniel proves to be a competent assistant in adventure and the spy business.

What didn’t work as well:

Readers may want more drama in the plot although Emilia mounts a daring escape from Mary’s castle. The evidence she uncovers doesn’t generate the reaction she expects and that part of the story may feel anticlimactic.

The final verdict:

The author develops an entertaining, informative story featuring the intrigue surrounding the contested claims to rule England between Queen Elizabeth and Mary Queen of Scots. Emilia’s relatable character carries the plot as she tries to create a contest-winning play while investigating alleged plots to bring Mary to the throne. Readers may want more suspense but I still recommend you give this book a shot.

Goblin Monday (Goosebumps House of Shivers 2) by R.L. Stine

What worked:

The author effectively develops expectations and tension as the plot slowly unfolds. The setting is in the remote, wintry woods of Vermont where Mario accompanies Todd and Jewel as they vacation with their grandparents. The grandfather is famous for his books about mystical creatures but he tells the kids all of the fantastic stories are true! The grandmother sings songs she makes up and then tells the others to join in. She’s surprised when no one else knows the words even though she says they’ve sung them before. Readers won’t know what to make of this behavior. The possibilities grow when Todd and Jewel’s parents go out for a walk without leaving a note or taking their phones. The suspense grows when they aren’t found and Mario wonders if the goblin in the garden is real.

Mario has never experienced snow so he’s very excited about accompanying his friends on vacation. He’s open to possibilities so the grandfather’s warnings about a goblin in the garden and an imp in the laundry room impact him more than other characters. His emotions have wide fluctuations as he experiences curiosity, happiness, and fear. His biggest problems arise when he tries to explore the yard and forest and his attempts to take pictures don’t end well. The reactions from Todd and Jewel are confusing since they’ve been in this environment before. Again, these interactions will add to readers’ uncertainty as they try to understand what’s truly happening. Of course, the author saves a couple of surprises for the very end.

What didn’t work as well:

The contrasting moods in the plot don’t always feel consistent. The author develops creepy, eerie feelings but then the tone changes as the kids try to have fun like a normal vacation. Mario should be more freaked out as events unfold but he’s able to maintain his composure around the grandparents. However, the book’s resolution reveals some insight to explain Mario’s behavior.

The final verdict:

This book is a milder version of Stine’s books but it still develops uneasy emotions. Readers will figure out something strange is going on but they won’t know exactly what until the conclusion. Overall, the book offers a fun, entertaining monster story and I recommend you give it a shot.

The Quest of Danger (Once Upon a Tim 4) by Stuart Gibbs

What worked:

This book has a light-hearted air to it as the characters encounter another humorous adventure. This is exemplified by Ferkle as he was learning to be a village idiot before joining Princess Grace, Tim (an apprentice knight), and his cousin Bull (actually a girl named Belinda). Tim and Belinda were abandoned by their knight mentors (Sir Cumference and Sir Cuss to name a couple) who now follow Grace’s evil brother. Prince Ruprecht is that foul character and he plans to marry a princess in this book to get her family’s riches. Tim and his friends must survive a deadly waterfall, sea monsters, and a tsunami to stop Ruprecht and foil his scheme.

The author includes IQ Booster words throughout the story. The narrator says this is to convince parents and teachers that the book is actually educational and not just a silly tale. These words are identified by IQ Booster icons and are followed by explanations of their meanings. There’s an entire page where the narrator explains how he will explain the IQ Boosters. Readers will be surprised that these words and their meanings add amusement to the narrative. For example, a cyclops is myopic, which means he can only see things that are close to his eye, but nothing is close to the eye of a giant monster.

There are references to the earlier books but this one can easily be read independently. The fast-paced narrative will keep young readers engaged as there is constant action. The characters sometimes use their wits to escape dangerous situations while other times they’re saved by sheer luck. The story is told in first-person through the eyes of Tim so readers can get a look at his inner thoughts. Princess Grace hints that she has a crush on Bull and Tim stews over the need to inform her that his cousin happens to be a girl too. A witch changed Tim’s pet dog Rover into a giant frog and now his fr-dog’s blend of abilities come in handy. However, they’re just as likely to create new complications.

What didn’t work as well:

Some young readers might not appreciate the IQ Boosters as the descriptions create interruptions in the plot. However, the author has produced a silly story, and the unique method of sharing advanced vocabulary and meanings fits his style.

The final verdict:

The author of the Spy School books is known for his quirky narratives so readers will have a sense of what to expect. The plot moves rapidly from one unusual incident to another and the abundance of humor will keep readers amused. Overall, this is a fun book to read and I recommend you give it a shot.

Holly's Secret (Woodwalkers 3) by Katja Brandis

What worked:

Woodwalkers can transform from humans into different kinds of animals which creates unusual interactions between characters. Carag, a puma, is best friends with Holly, a mischievous squirrel who exudes plenty of attitude. A skunk woodwalker shoots his stink when nervous which is utilized as a distraction by other characters. Carag has an ongoing feud with Jeff and his gang of wolf bullies that exemplifies the perceived conflict between cats and dogs. Carag was helped by a white wolf in the last book but he’s confused by her behavior this time around. The teaching staff can also transform into animals and their curriculum teaches woodwalkers how to live among humans.

A conflict with Andrew Milling continues after Carag refuses to help the wicked man/puma in the last book. Milling wants to kill humans for revenge and he hints that he’s finding additional, secret help within Carag’s school. The man’s threats are always in the back of Carag’s mind so his presence will remain a part of the series plot until the end. Readers will wonder what Milling is up to and if conflicts in the book are parts of his plan or separate problems. Do the burglaries in this book have anything to do with Milling? How is the robber able to steal the contents of bank deposit boxes but still leave the vault doors locked from the inside? It sounds like the work of a woodwalker but who, how, and why?

Holly is a main focus in this book as her new guardian wants her removed from the school. Her rebellious nature refuses to let this happen and her first instinct is to hide in the woods until things calm down. However, she decides to use her tendency to create mischief to force her new guardian into letting her stay with her friends. The discovery of a woodwalker wolf cub in the wild leads to additional problems and revelations that will impel Carag to take action against his enemies.

What didn’t work as well:

The series has so many characters and animals that trying to visualize them can be a challenge. Although they’re usually in human form, their animal appearances range from insects and mice to bison and elk, and everything in between. The author helps readers by weaving references to the animal forms into the plot.

The final verdict:

This book continues the series plot so I suggest you read at least the previous book first (I haven’t read the first one myself). Carag’s efforts to thwart Milling’s plans underlie additional conflicts involving robberies, the lost wolf cub, Holly’s guardian, and Carag’s puma family. Overall, this book offers a creative version of character transformations and I recommend you give it a shot.

A Royal Conundrum (The Misfits #1) by Lisa Yee

What worked:

Olive lacks confidence and wonders if she should be part of the top-secret NOCK team (No One Can Know). Her teammates each have unique talents like technology, knowledge, and combat but Olive wonders what ability she has to offer. Olive’s parents have dumped her into RASCH, a school for reforming arts, and she feels her parents don’t care about her. She badly misses her grandmother but still remembers motivational things Mimi used to say. Olive realizes the skills she learned from Mimi’s acrobatic lessons come in handy and make her unafraid of heights. However, she’s never learned to swim and the idea of getting into water terrifies her.

RASCH is uniquely set at a former prison located on an island across the bay from San Francisco. That description sounds a lot like Alcatraz Prison but the building in this story is nothing like it. It’s more like a castle with a moat and offers many twisting hallways and secret passages. The NOCK team meets in a hidden room that’s equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and other resources. Olive’s best friend Phil is a technology whiz and she comes up with numerous clever inventions that might easily fit into futuristic stories or innovative spy novels.

The rash of brazen jewel heists presents an obvious conflict for the characters. The thief is nicknamed the Bling King as he takes gems worth millions and leaves a calling card behind. The school really needs financial support or it will be forced to shut down. The headmistress is hosting a fundraising event at the school and the largest benefactor will be the featured guest. Dame Gloria will be wearing the priceless Royal Rumpus necklace so everyone, including readers, will assume the Bling King will try to steal it. Protecting the dame’s jewels will be NOCK’s most important assignment and failure will surely mean the closing of RASCH.

What didn’t work as well:

There’s a strong dependency on Phil’s inventions as she seems to whip up new ones at every turn. Her creations stretch the limits of believability when she develops oral communication devices, and various self-defense gadgets, and retrofits the school’s van into a mobile control center. The other NOCK members contribute to the team but Phil’s efforts are disproportionate and improbable.

The final verdict:

The basic premise of the story isn’t overly innovative but it still feels fresh. The plot has a nice pace and the blend of characters presents the ups of downs of developing friendships. Overall, the adventure and mystery are very entertaining and I recommend you give the book a shot!

Arazan's Wolves (Ranger's Apprentice: The Royal Ranger 6) by John Flanagan

What worked:

Maddie is mentoring as a Ranger and she accompanies Will on a mission to investigate reports of a mythical creature. She also happens to be the daughter of royalty but that information is kept secret. Girls have never been allowed into the Rangers so it’s interesting to see the interactions Maddie has with the public. Most men and women are shocked to meet her although one woman thinks Maddie probably has better sense than most of the male Rangers. Maddie’s skill in using a sling to fire small pellets and stones is quite unique among the Corps. She’s still learning the nuances of being a Ranger from Will but she brings her own talents to the adventure.

This book revisits Celtica where Will and Halt battled Morgarath in the original Ranger’s Apprentice series. Morgarath used mind control to amass an army of Wargals which are the only beasts to strike fear in Will. There are rumors that an evil witch may be controlling a dozen Wargals herself so that creates some subtle tension in Maddie’s mentor. Other books in the author’s various series don’t include magic and the supernatural but Flanagan introduces some uncertainty in these areas. The Rangers are skeptical but Will admits 1% of unusual incidents can’t be explained by gullibility, misinformation, and trickery so that leaves a mathematical door open for the possibility of sorcery. It adds a new dimension to familiar plots and readers are left to use their imaginations.

The best part of the book is the whole world of the Ranger Corps. This book makes numerous references to previous books and events but they’re informative, not required knowledge for readers. The Rangers are primarily scouts, strategists, and keepers of the law in Araluen and their reputations stretch beyond the kingdom Their excellence with the longbow is legendary and Will is especially adept with the weapon. The Rangers’ uncanny talent to hide in plain sight makes some people believe they must have supernatural powers. Rangers have special bonds with their horses that go beyond human and animal. Will and Maddie take a moment to discuss this relationship at one point and readers suspicions will be confirmed. This book also reveals unspoken Ranger fears that they must learn to control and overcome.

What didn’t work as well:

The mystical element of this book is unusual for the author and doesn’t totally work for me. I enjoy how the Rangers seem to be supernatural but their skills and abilities can be explained by training and years of practice. The inclusion of incantations by characters and the Rangers’ acceptance of them steps out of the norm. It’s not terrible and may not bother most readers but it will take getting used to for loyal fans.

The final verdict:

Fans of the author will enjoy revisiting Will and Maddie although the sorcery is a new twist. They once again return peace to fearful villagers but their opponents present new challenges. Overall, it’s a fun adventure and I recommend you give it a shot.

The Lumbering Giants of Windy Pines by Mo Netz

What worked:

Jerry’s legs aren’t strong enough to walk for long so she’s forced to navigate using a wheelchair. Her disability is due to a hereditary problem so her legs become weaker as she grows older. Jerry is homeschooled and has gotten used to frequently moving around with her mother. Jerry doesn’t feel a need to attend public school ever again and she gets annoyed when others see the wheelchair and prejudge or pity her. These traits display the confidence, independence, and bravery necessary to take on the world, even when the world might be full of demons. Jerry eventually makes friends with a girl named Chapel who sees the wheelchair but still treats her as an equal.

Jerry’s best “friend” is an invisible, tiny dragon named Paul that she creates when her father dies. The dragon often stays in her shirt pocket and offers comments and advice as Jerry encounters challenges with her new life living in a motel. Her mother is concerned that Jerry talks to an imaginary creature (or is it?) and wants to help Jerry deal with her apparent emotional issues. Paul says he’ll protect Jerry but he struggles to fly and he can’t shoot flames so she’s not sure how he would do that. It turns out Paul has some surprises to reveal as the plot nears its climax.

People have been disappearing in the woods of Windy Pines for years so Jerry is concerned when she sees her mother entering the forest. Jerry also hears a strange voice on the radio that only broadcasts in the middle of the night. It first days “They’re coming” and later speaks of guardians. Readers won’t immediately understand what’s happening but the mysterious voice acts as foreshadowing of events to come. It’s clear Jerry’s mother is more than the motel housekeeper and her secret, special projects are her main purpose for being in Windy Pines. The book’s title and the radio voice indicate giants will be involved in the story but who knows when, where, and why they’ll appear?

What didn’t work as well:

The plot moves into the woods and Jerry is forced to trek through the trees and old mines to find her mother. It’s not always easy but she doesn’t seem to have much trouble navigating the challenging natural obstacles in the middle of the night. She needs help at times but her movements aren’t always believable.

The final verdict:

This book offers a unique twist to familiar ghost stories. The wheelchair is an interesting addition and the origin of the demons isn’t what readers might expect. Overall, this is a fun adventure and I recommend you give it a shot.

The Thirteenth Circle by MarcyKate Connolly and Kathryn Holmes

What worked:

What a curious conflict between characters. Cat is the biggest weirdo in the seventh grade and she’s determined to prove aliens are creating crop circles at a local farm every thirteen years. Dani wants to get a scholarship to a science camp but her only chance to win one is by pairing up with Cat in a science competition. The idea of aliens is stupid to her so her goal is to disprove her partner’s hypothesis. She doesn’t share this secret with her partner although her comments should give away her plan. Cat knows a lot more about crop circles and space than Dani so Dani’s going to need to come up with her own hypothesis soon. The chapters alternate between the two characters’ viewpoints so readers will experience the excitement and inner turmoil developing within their minds. 

Science and math are key elements in the story as both characters love the subjects and respect the process. They quickly figure out the appearance of the crop circles is related to prime numbers. The circles arise every thirteen years and there are always a prime number of them. The girls research news reports about past crop circles around the world although Cat and Dani have different perspectives on what actually happened. They carefully follow the scientific method as they collect evidence from the farm and save control samples for comparison. Strangely, researchers should be unbiased but Cat twists their observations to fit aliens as the cause while Dani does the exact same thing to explain natural causes. They don’t realize their opposing views are actually challenging each other to be better scientists.

Both girls soon recognize something strange is going on, stranger than UFOs and aliens, but they don’t know what. Cat is present when a circle forms right in front of her although she’s not actually able to see it. Men in dark suits show up, ala Men in Black, who take control of the scene, confiscate all of the girls’ evidence and kick them off the property. The owner of the farm is interviewed on the news and the girls know he’s lying about what’s happening. A crop-dusting pilot shares some information with them that gets Dani wondering about her own hypothesis. The author saves some surprises until later in the plot although experienced readers should have a pretty good idea of where the plot’s headed.

What didn’t work as well:

Clues start falling into place enough that the outcome is fairly predictable halfway into the book. The details still need to be refined but readers will get the gist of the resolution. 

The Final Verdict:

This book should really appeal to lovers of space research and the scientific method. The back-and-forth of perspectives between Dani and Cat will keep readers wondering about the truth although alien believers will be rooting for Cat. The book’s ending seems to leave the door open for a sequel. Overall, I recommend you give this book a shot.