The Snowman Code by Simon Stephenson

What worked:

The book tells a charming story about a sad, young girl named Blessing. The root of her problem concerns the longest winter on record and the effects it’s having on the citizens. Her mother, Margaret, is suffering from seasonal depression, as winter always makes her depressed. Her issues are so severe that children’s services place Blessing in foster care every time winter rolls around. Readers can see how a record-setting long winter will create a massive problem for Blessing and her mom. Blessing is hassled by three bullies (she thinks of them as the Driplet Triplets), which makes her decision to become truant even easier.

The Snowman Code consists of rules snowmen must follow, and they cannot be broken. The first rule readers will encounter states that a snowman must ignore humans, but they must respond if a human speaks to them six times. Albert Framlington is a shoddy-looking snowman (Blessing would rate him as 3 out of 10) in the park, and he reluctantly befriends Blessing. The code guides Albert’s behavior, especially the second rule that says snowmen must help children in need. However, a conflict arises due to a secret Albert is keeping from Blessing.

Albert Framlington adds much humor to the story because of his superior-sounding attitude. He insists people born in the summer (like Blessing) are less intelligent than those born in winter, like him. He spouts off “facts” and can’t believe Blessing doesn’t know the information. Readers may agree with Blessing when Albert says Sherlock Holmes was a famous zookeeper, not a detective. He insists Africa is covered in snow even after Blessing tells him he’s talking about the Arctic. Readers should know Albert’s cheeks turn red when he’s fibbing, although he insists that he never tells a lie.

What didn’t work as well:

Snowmen are always supposed to follow the Snowman Code, but Albert Framlington seems to be less than serious about this concept. His cavalier attitude defines his character, but it may also be confusing. If rule number two says he’s supposed to help Blessing, then why isn’t he more honest with her?

The final verdict:

This magical story will appeal to young readers, as the author creates a very creative tale. The idea of living snowmen and their recurring births presents a story readers have never seen before.  Overall, I recommend you give this book a shot.

Mystery in the Grand Canyon (Sir Edmund of the Wild West 1) by Dusti Bowling

What worked:

Sir Edmund could come across as a pompous character, as he thinks he’s worthy of being a member of the Royal Guard and dreams of being knighted by the queen. This dog narrates the story and frequently comments about his beauty and superior qualities. However, his attitude stems from confidence and dedication as a service dog, so he has earned some leeway. The book exposes young readers to service dogs and their importance to their owners. Edmund’s specialty is sensing seizures and helping his human avoid injuries during an episode, while a peacock says it’s an emotional support animal for its owner. Edmund takes his job seriously and steps up to keep his owners safe.

Edmund is initially disgusted with the other animal characters, as his superiority takes control of his opinions. A little, yappy Chihuahua proclaims himself King Ruler of the Grand Canyon, so Edmund’s annoyance is understandable. A boxer named Rocky adds humor to the story, as he’s slower to understand Edmund. Rocky initially greets Edmund by sniffing his butt and calls him Ed-Man throughout the rest of the story. Edmund slowly realizes that these two dogs might be new friends, and it’s okay to associate with non-royals.

The highlight of the story is Edmund’s ability to see and speak to ghosts. He interacts with a variety of characters who perished in the Grand Canyon, and it’s interesting to note that many of them are based on historical facts. The author shares this information at the end of the book. Edmund talks to a female influencer who fell while taking selfies along the edge of the canyon. Another ghost searched for gold and was killed by his partner. Edmund’s ability to speak with ghosts creates the possibility of unexpected characters popping up at any moment.

What didn’t work as well:

The mystery is the backdrop of the book, but real mystery lovers will be disappointed with the outcome. Willy’s interpretation of it is full of speculations, and the book never comes to a definite conclusion about the mystery. This may be due to the fact that it’s based on true events, but no one knows how it turned out. Also, it may not bother every reader, but the dogs somehow communicate with each other while in the presence of humans. It must be telepathy, because the humans never comment about their dogs making sounds.

The final verdict:

In many ways, this book is more about ghosts than it is about an actual mystery. It’s most appropriate for younger middle-grade readers, and I suggest they give it a try.

Neshama by Marcella Pixley

What worked:

The idea of religion is one facet of the story that creates a conflict. Anna’s father says they are secular, which means they don’t pay attention to what it means to be Jewish. Her mother grew up Lutheran and doesn’t know enough about Judaism to teach Anna. However, Anna’s grandmother, Bubbe, is still a practicing Jew and invites Anna to her home to celebrate Shabbat. They sing prayers together in Hebrew, and the author includes the lyrics with English translations. However, visiting Bubbe opens the door for a larger conflict.

Anna can see ghosts, and she lets them control her hands to write messages in a journal. Other people, including her teacher and parents, think she has an active imagination, but Anna doesn’t try to hide the truth. Talking about ghosts scares some students, but it also makes her a target for ridicule and teasing. Bubbe believes Anna is a shayna neshama, a Yiddish-Hebrew term for a beautiful soul, but even Bubbe doesn’t think Anna can see ghosts. Bubbe doesn’t know that the ghost of Ruthie, sister of Anna’s father, hangs around her home, and Ruthie misses dancing with her mother and holding her hands. Anna and Ruthie communicate through the journal, but Anna decides to make a fateful decision.

The entire book is in verse, with each page sharing something different. Some pages narrate the story, and others present the thoughts from ghosts. Readers will know what Anna is thinking and feeling as she deals with school, her father, and Ruthie. Eden is the main tormentor at school, and she goes out of her way to make Anna’s life horrible. Anna’s father isn’t an understanding character, and he does something terrible to her that is unforgivable. The verses use short lines to quickly communicate feelings and ideas, so the plot actually moves fairly quickly.

What didn’t work as well:

It’s sometimes challenging to differentiate Anna’s thoughts from Ruthie’s. The story in verse shares thoughts and feelings, but readers may not fully connect with Anna. There are scenes where readers might not grasp exactly what she’s experiencing without more description.

The final verdict:

This story in verse offers a touching tale of family and faith. The lyrical style allows readers to capture the intense emotions and thoughts of the characters, as Anna tries to restore peace to troubled souls. If you’re okay with books in verse, I recommend you give this one a shot. 

The Return on the White Witch (Calinore Chronicles 2) by Theresa Leyes

What worked:

The story has a nice blend of magic and adventure. Dylan and his ancestors have been chosen (cursed?) to defend the royal family of Calinore, even though the king’s soul is trapped in a journal and the rest of the royal family are mice. Drucilla is the main antagonist, as the dark sorceress uses her powerful magic to spread evil. Flying gorillas, three-foot-long spiders, and subservient humans make up her army and obey her out of fear, not loyalty. Dylan is supported by witches, pirates, and common folk hoping to get out from under Drucilla’s tyranny. Dylan’s most powerful ally is a fire-breathing dragon that he rescued from prison in the previous book.

Drucilla’s evilness is a highlight of the story. She’s the most powerful character and uses her narcissistic, wicked personality to inflict terror on everyone she encounters. She plans to marry the current king, King Mordrid, who’s an equally despicable person. His adoration for Drucilla blinds him to the mocking, disrespectful way she treats him. Drucilla also controls an army of crows that act as spies and aerial weapons against the story’s heroes. Maybe it’s her feelings of superiority and overconfidence that keep her from realizing the flaws in her evil plans. Treating her followers with cruelty and malevolence can only spell problems in the future.

One unusual aspect of the story is that Dylan is assisted by his father, as most middle-grade books find the young hero going on quests with friends, not parents. Dylan’s father was the previous chosen one until Dylan received an amulet on his birthday. The White Witch joins the plot in the book’s second half, and she provides answers to questions readers might have. She also possesses the magical powers needed to end the curse on the Calinore king and his family. From the previous book, readers will remember that the king’s soul was trapped in a journal when he was murdered by Drucilla. Readers will know the conflict with Drucilla is over once the king becomes a breathing human once again.

What didn’t work as well:

References are made to events from the previous book, and readers new to the series may not fully understand them. The easy remedy is to read the first book. Also, the resolution seems to drag on unnecessarily. It answers questions readers might have about how things turn out, but then it creates new ones that linger. However, I’ve just discovered this is a trilogy, so my questions will be answered in the last book!

The final verdict:

The Amazon listing indicates this book is for ages twelve and up, but there’s absolutely no reason why younger readers can’t enjoy it too. It might be read independently, but I recommend you read The Quest for Calinore first. It’s an exciting adventure with a wonderful blend of action, magic, and drama. I recommend you try it for yourself.

Thrash Force by Raj Sidhu

What worked:

The story is infused with juvenile humor that will appeal to many young readers. Playing with character names is one of the first examples, as Riley, class clown, calls the evil overlord in their Dungeon Brawl role-playing game names like Doodoo-Butt and Doofus. Doomface, in another world, overhears Riley’s insults, and this moment ignites the plot’s main conflict. Doomface transports the kids to his world, where he plans to destroy them. However, to make things more fun, he transforms Riley and his friends into their Dungeon Brawl characters. Riley becomes a red, demon sorcerer, Simon becomes a muscular minotaur, Georgie is a mutating, warrior elf, and her younger brother Jasper is a Mohawked green goblin shredding a magical guitar.

The plot becomes an adventure as Riley and his friends, Thrash Force Inc., try to survive Doomface’s challenge. Success will mean they can return to their home world. Riley must get home before 8:00, so he can keep his parents from learning about his failing report card. Riley begins to reflect on why he’s doing so poorly in school after being a stellar student when he was younger. This internal conflict is a subplot throughout the book. The team gradually learns that they must complete smaller missions to hone their skills and boost their power levels. Riley thinks it's taking too long, and they still might fail. One of Doomface’s rival demons offers Riley a deal, and Riley eventually accepts. However, the deal he’s agreed to may spell doom for everyone in the multiverse.

A couple of intriguing minor characters are lurking in the background, and readers may suspect they’ll have larger influences in the future. Magnus Belfry is a disturbed classmate from Madison Magnet School. He seeks revenge because Riley has snubbed his attempts at friendship for years. Magnus is constantly looking for ways to get Riley in trouble, and he’s inadvertently transported into Doomface’s world, too. There, he continues his efforts to punish Riley. Molt seems to be a subservient character who has the ear of Doomface. He’s often the target of Doomface’s anger and threats, but manages to talk his way out of the situations. Molt contradicts Doomface’s plans and allows Doomface to take credit for the changes. Readers will suspect that Molt has a secret scheme in mind, and his subtle manipulation will continue in the future.

What didn’t work as well:

It would be nice to know more about Riley’s friends. There are hints about their lives, but most of the information is related to the game or Thrash Force. There’s also little variation in their characters’ abilities other than Jasper’s guitar. Riley throws fireballs, Georgie becomes a wolf, and Simon’s minotaur form smashes things. Jasper is the least developed character, but he at least plays different magical songs to create different spells.

The final verdict:

This is a humorous, entertaining adventure for middle-grade readers. It includes messages about self-image and taking responsibility for one’s actions. I recommend you try it for yourself.

Spirit Racer (Aleja Garcia, Book 1) by Luke James

What worked:

The book opens with a prelude that immediately lets readers know this is going to be a good versus evil story. Dark racers compete with Light racers, and a Light team driver disappears after being grabbed by a giant spider. He will need to be replaced before the Light team can compete again. Then, the first chapter introduces Aleja, whose family may lose their farm to a greedy, evil governor of the village. A series of events finds her in the big race against the governor and other competitors, where she manages to win. However, that only leads her to a portal into Astra, where she’s entered into the Race Eternal. Winning this race will help protect Earth from the Demon Age of war, plague, and hunger, along with spirits and demons.

The Race Eternal is action-packed, non-stop excitement that is guided by mythology, past history, and imagination. Where else will readers find obstacles like an ice giant, Fenris the wolf from Norse mythology, and a huge, destructive statue from Egyptian mythology trying to destroy twenty-four spiritual racers? Lava fields and other dangers await the two teams as they vie to become the winner of the 100^th Race Eternal. One of Aleja’s advantages as a living soul is that her racer is created by her imagination and can adapt as she becomes more experienced. Pepe is her pet chihuahua, but she’s surprised when his spirit shows up in Astra. He offers moral support and encouragement as Aleja navigates the challenges.

 Several of Aleja’s Light teammates are eccentric, memorable characters. Bruiser drives a souped-up truck adorned with metal plates, fur, and giant tusks on the front. Disco Dash drives a New York taxi cab he calls the Dashinator, complete with a cymbal-playing monkey in the back seat. Nexus can control time-fields around her car and force opponents into slow motion. Pixel Pro was a gaming legend when he was alive, so he sees the race courses as gaming code. Unfortunately, the governor from Aleja’s home is represented on the Dark team by his racing-legend father. All of these characters and more add colorful personalities to the book and help Aleja become more confident.

What didn’t work as well:

Readers might want more description once Aleja reaches the spirit world of Astra and before she starts racing. Upon entering the realm, she’s immediately thrown into the Race Eternal with a very brief explanation shared by her deceased grandfather. Readers know the race is to keep the Dark out of the Earth realm, but they don’t know much about the contest or the other characters.

The final verdict:

Amazon indicates this book is for ages 10 and up, but younger people with decent reading skills can enjoy it, too. The story moves quickly and has plenty of action to entertain young readers. The author emphasizes the importance of family and developing self-confidence. I recommend you give this book a shot. 

Stitch by Padraig Kenny

What worked:

Stitch and Henry are loveable, unassuming characters, and Stitch’s goodness is the most special part of the book. People living outside the castle might consider them monsters, but that’s only because of their appearances. Stitch always follows Professor Hardacre’s orders, and one of them is to not let Henry out of his cage. Henry is clumsy and breaks things. The Professor also said he’s to not be disturbed under any circumstances, so Stitch has not disturbed his sleep for 327 days. Stitch tends to take things literally, so there’s confusion when he hears figures of speech. His response to a simple, “How do you do?” is, “How do I do what?” Henry views himself as highly "intellitude” and is gifted with “handsomeness”, and young readers will enjoy his playful vocabulary.

In contrast, the professor’s nephew, Professor Giles Hardacre, is a man of science and sees Henry and Stitch as specimens and materials to be studied. After meeting Henry for the first time, Giles is sure he can fix the Professor’s first creation. This causes Henry to flee the castle, with Stitch and Alice, Giles’ assistant, following later to find him. They find unexpected dangers from The Hooded Man and frightened villagers. Stitch’s kindness and positive outlook guide his choices and change prejudiced minds.

The concept of death confuses Stitch when he learns the Professor will be gone forever, and the concept is discussed throughout the story. The meaning of the word “person” also puzzles Stitch, since he was created from the parts of dead bodies. Is he a person when he wasn’t really born? Friendship and forgiveness are other thoughts readers will encounter through Stitch’s interactions with others. His openness and goodness make everyone a potential friend, and he treats adversaries with respect and understanding. Readers will be surprised when Stitch turns volatile situations into reflective moments of transformation.

What didn’t work as well:

Some more able middle-grade readers may pass on reading this book because it seems too simple. However, the story explores real-life thoughts and emotions with fun and a feel-good story.

The final verdict:

This is a charming story for young readers with several positive messages. I recommend you give it a shot!

Many Voices: Building Erie, the Canal that Changed America by Laurie Lawlor

What worked:

This is a comprehensive history of how the Erie Canal connects a quickly growing country. It takes many decades for actual construction to begin, and the book explores the many conflicts involved in the process. European countries fought over the lands, and indigenous people fought to preserve their homes and cultures. Funding the project and determining a route for the canal took years to complete. Qualified engineers can’t be found in America at this time in history, and finding the thousands of workers needed is an additional challenge, including young children. Once construction finally begins, the book delves into the technology and design of the canal and the dangers the workers face. Weather, insects, explosions, and drowning take the lives of thousands of workers. The book winds up by covering the years following the canal’s completion and sharing its status and conditions today.

The abundant facts and information are accompanied by numerous graphics and book sections. Actual drawings, maps, and a few photographs allow readers to see locations, people, working conditions, and canal designs. A bibliography and source notes share the author’s sources if readers want more information about different topics. A timeline gives readers a quick summary of key dates shared in the book. A couple of pages provide suggestions for people wanting to visit the area today. An index helps readers looking for pages about specific topics.

What didn’t work as well:

The vast amount of information may be a bit much for young readers. There are many names, dates, countries, cultural groups, and political figures involved in building the canal. The narrative may be challenging for middle-grade readers, as it’s not simplified for younger minds. It’s probably most appropriate for upper middle-graders or teens.

The final verdict:

This book will make a wonderful resource for the Erie Canal information, but it’s most appropriate for mature readers. It seems to encompass every topic related to its construction and is supported by relevant citations. Overall, I recommend this book for young readers doing research. It’s not light reading.

Insurrection (Knights Without Ceremony 1) by Ari Magnusson

What worked:

From the synopsis, readers know Ettan, Drogue, and Kemo will work to stop an insurrection, but it’s not a smooth or peaceful process. The boys are training to become knights, but only a few candidates will be selected. Drogue is an entitled bully, and the other boys fear him but don’t respect him. Drogue’s father has told him to use any tactics necessary to be chosen, and the others know he repeatedly cheats to win his sparring matches. Worse than that, Drogue is instructed to make sure that Kemo and especially Ettan are dismissed from knighthood training. Drogue is the boy who first learns of his father’s plans for insurrection, and it leads to some hard, heartfelt decisions.  

The plot switches between the three boys, but it mostly follows Ettan’s plight. His younger brother Gerit is a treat because of his entrepreneurial plans and matter-of-fact way of speaking. The boys are in charge of the king’s chickens, and they make daily egg deliveries to merchants in the market. Gerit donates bread to the hungry that he secretly liberates from a baker, and he has a sensible explanation for why it’s not stealing. He also has plans to start their own chicken business after Ettan is sacked from training. Drogue insults Ettan’s family honor even though Ettan doesn’t remember details about his parents. His mother died when he was young, and his father was often away on missions for the king. The plot slowly reveals the truth about his family and why Drogue’s father is afraid of Ettan.

An underlying tension between cultures permeates the knighthood training and the kingdom. Some people, including Drogue’s father, want the kingdom to stop diluting the power and prestige of royal blood and restore the purity of the citizens. Peasants and foreigners may be allowed to stay as long as they don’t have any opportunities to advance in society. Ettan will receive land if he’s promoted to knighthood, and he experiences unfairness daily during his training. However, readers won’t realize what’s really going on until Drogue makes a shocking discovery. Lies have been spread, and citizens don’t understand the real threat to the kingdom.

What didn’t work as well:

It feels like Kemo should be a bigger part of the story. His fighting abilities are superior, and his skin color makes him a clear target for prejudice. However, he has a smaller part in fighting the insurrection, and it feels like he should be doing more. He goes on a personal mission, but it won’t have an impact on the rising conflict like the efforts of Ettan and Drogue.

The final verdict:

Ettan’s pursuit of knighthood takes a left turn and creates a captivating adventure. The story seems to be about prejudice and unfair treatment, but the covert conflict isn’t revealed until later. The end of the book may evoke memories of The Ranger’s Apprentice series when Ettan is given a secret mission. The last page will leave readers hanging, and I recommend you give this book a shot. 

Incredibly Penelope by Lauren Myracle

What worked:

The book opens with Penelope encountering new feelings. She grows up surrounded by love and encouragement from her mother and godmother, the world-famous Queenie Bee. Queenie, Penelope, and her mom travel around the globe, sharing adventures while visiting exotic locations. Penelope decides she wants to experience the adventure of a real school, but she may not be prepared for the attitudes of those who resent her upbringing. One roommate, Dilly, thinks Penelope’s a braggart and show-off, and Mrs. Grimsley, head of the academy, is internally jealous and angered by a perceived sense of Penelope’s entitlement and superiority. Actually, the woman doesn’t like kids. Penelope begins to feel self-doubt because Dilly’s comments make her reflect on her behavior. Does talking about adventures with Queenie and wearing designer clothes make others feel bad or inferior? Is she being a show-off?

The author infuses different emotions through Penelope’s interactions with other characters. A bit of humor is created when Penelope’s positive outlook leads her to believe the angry, selfish headmaster is a kind and caring person. Another girl suspects Russian spies are everywhere. Penelope becomes best friends with Tate, a character who doesn’t identify as a boy or a girl. They support each other through different challenges, although Tate is afraid to go into the basement or visit the peaceful marsh. The other students are unaware of Dilly’s cruel mother, but this knowledge will help readers understand her character. Huge emotional swings arise later in the story, but I won’t spoil the experience for readers.

Readers will definitely have strong thoughts and questions about Mrs. Grimsley’s character. How is such a self-centered, wicked woman in charge of an academy for young girls? Mrs. Grimsley initially tries to instruct the eight fourth graders about outdated etiquette for young ladies. She treats Penelope like a cash cow, and readers will be privy to her thoughts to understand the shaky explanations behind her behavior. There’s a selfish reason behind every incident when she helps Penelope. Her ultimate hope is to be lucratively rewarded by Queenie sometime in the future. She treats every positive behavior toward Penelope as an investment in eventual financial profits.

What didn’t work as well:

The author uses an omniscient point of view, so readers are aware of characters’ thoughts and past experiences. The first half of the book interjects flashbacks from different characters, and some readers may be distracted by them. It’s nice to have background information, but some of it isn’t necessary.

The final verdict:

Hopefully, readers will connect with Penelope’s positivity and experience a variety of emotions as her attitude is challenged. Some may not be prepared for a huge surprise later in the story, but rest assured, a happy ending awaits. I highly recommend you check this book out for yourself. 

Maker Girl and Professor Smarts #1 by Jasmine Florentine

What worked:

The villains in this book have superpowers, while the two heroes do not. Maker Girl, real name Yaya, thinks she can make anything, although her bag gained superpowers from a comet that struck the earth. Professor Smarts, real name Chuy, is Yaya’s reluctant sidekick and knows all kinds of information. His realistic thinking contrasts with Yaya’s unbridled enthusiasm and energy, as they decide to combat the unfairness of supervillains. What gets her all riled up? Chuy finally finds an ice cream flavor he enjoys other than vanilla when a villain turns it to slime. It’s so wrong!

Chuy and Yaya battle superpowers using their knowledge of science, math, and engineering. Readers who enjoy STEM learning will especially like the pages showing how to make actual tools using materials found around the house. These items aren’t simple little inventions, as evidenced by the instructions needed to build a grappling hook! Later, they share the science behind making a tasty dessert to resolve the plot’s conflict. The story rewards creative thinking and STEM learning to defeat strength and superpowers. The author shares a few interesting pages at the end. Sketches show the drawing transformations of Chuy and Yaya, and a couple of pages share links to search if readers want more information.

What didn’t work as well:

The plot moves swiftly, so it compensates by sacrificing character and plot development. This is a common issue found in many graphic novels. The story has humor, but it doesn’t develop any suspense or drama. With that being said, young and emerging readers will probably appreciate the simplicity.

The final verdict:

This book will appeal to younger readers who want a simple story with humor. It’s a bonus if they like science and STEM learning too. I recommend that these kinds of readers give it a try. 

The Poisoned King (Impossible Creatures 2) by Katherine Rundell

What worked:

The book opens with Christopher, the returning main character from the first book, being summoned to the Archipelago to help discover what’s killing dragons. Upon arriving, the story switches scenes to follow Anya, a reluctant princess who’s second in line to the throne. A major conflict arises when her father is accused of poisoning the king, her grandfather. Christopher and Anya bring their separate stories together a third of the way into the book. They discover their problems are linked, and they must unite their efforts. They’re aided by a few characters from the first book, but a tiny, three-inch dragon named Jacques supplies humor. Jacques envisions himself as a mighty, superior creature, and everything he says exemplifies that attitude.

Anya has a special connection to nature and is constantly accompanied by one of the royal birds, a Gagana named Gallia. These birds resemble crows, with silver claws and golden beaks, and they can communicate with Anya. She’s raising a baby Gagana from birth, and Koo provides levity while learning about the world. His first word is “Mine”, and it’s frequently repeated in almost every situation. While Anya’s nature connection is limited to the forest near the castle, Christopher is known across the lands as Guardian of the Archipelago. He’s earned the moniker due to his deeds in the first book, and many creatures are willing to offer assistance. The variety of mystical and hybrid animals, such as unicorns, manticores, chimeras, and sphinxes, is an attractive part of this series. An illustrated glossary of the creatures can be found in the back of the book.

The conflict is a bit of a mystery, although readers will suspect Anya’s Uncle Claude is behind everything going wrong. Anya finds evidence of her grandfather’s poisoning, but wonders who might have done it and how a vial got in her father’s pocket. Claude tries to have her poisoned while transporting her to “safety”, and that begins a threat of assassins throughout the book. No one has heard of a poison that kills dragons or one that works so quickly. Anya and Christopher search for information, while dangers await. Some creatures become unexpected allies, while others distrust all humans.

What didn’t work as well:

This book can be enjoyed without reading the first one. However, readers wanting to see the Immortal’s return will be disappointed. Readers will know Mal, the new Immortal, perished in the first book, but the new Immortal isn’t introduced to the cast until the final pages of this one.

The final verdict:

You should read the first book, but it’s not absolutely necessary. The plot is captivating, as the conflict affects everyone in the Archipelago, with the impossible creatures, Anya, and Christopher teaming up to save the day. I highly recommend you read this book along with Impossible Creatures.

Weird But True! Know-It-All: Weather & Natural Disasters by Michael Burgan

What worked:

The book is organized logically to explain the wide range of topics associated with weather and natural disasters. It begins with general explanations of the difference between climate and weather, and then moves into factors that contribute to the creation of different weather types. Uneven heating and cooling have a significant impact on them, but geography and components in the air influence the weather too.  Bright, colorful photographs, illustrations, and diagrams accompany the text to help clarify concepts. Curiosities, facts, and related weather stories are included in the chapters to break up the bounty of information. A section called “Furious Floods” is followed by an 1889 survival story from a Johnstown, Pennsylvania, flooding disaster. Of course, the book features a section on tornadoes. It describes how they form, the different levels, and interesting facts about them. Other pages talk about people who study tornadoes and the equipment they use. Featuring a meteorologist named Anton Seimon brings a personal touch to the fact-driven narrative. Another section similarly explains hurricanes and how they are studied. Other weather-related information can be found in paragraphs and graphics scattered throughout the book. These sections deal with topics like “burning rain”, the shape of raindrops, animals that survive being carried inside tornadoes, and weather-related folklore.

Besides tornadoes and hurricanes, other disasters result from blizzards, droughts, high winds, volcanoes, and more. This book seems to cover every conceivable subject related to weather and nature! The book’s second half goes through the various climates in more detail and explores topics readers might not think of. There are pages on the history of climates and how they’ve changed, and factors that might result in climates changing. Other parts talk about how animals have adapted to various climates, while other animals are in danger due to current changes in the climate. The book’s final section addresses the consequences of climate change happening today and what needs to be done to help stop them. The book shares what readers can do and careers related to weather. A glossary and index are at the back to help readers locate specific topics with a mini, true-false quiz for review.

What didn’t work as well:

Is it possible to have too much information? Readers can become overwhelmed by the abundance found in this book, which might overwhelm them with knowledge. This book is great for introducing everything related to weather, but readers will need to use other sources for more in-depth research.

The final verdict:

The short sections accompanied by vivid photographs and illustrations make the information accessible to all young readers. The variety of weather-related topics almost guarantees every reader will find something of interest. I recommend you give this book a shot.

Greeking Out Tales from the Underworld: Ghostly Myths from Around the World by Kenny Curtis & Jillian Hughes

What worked:

The opening pages present a warning to parents that this book has “heavy themes” and stories that may be “… gruesome (or just plain gross)”. Okay, some young readers may be leery after reading these words, but most will be excited to read a book that might be edgy or bothersome to their parents. In reality, there’s nothing inappropriate or descriptive that might upset readers. The narrator shares the collection of stories with a playful voice, using a blend of informal dialogue with the “facts” from ancient tales. Many of the characters will be familiar to middle-grade readers, but the stories will be fresh. The first few tales come from Greek, Norse, and Egyptian folklore, but later myths and stories come from South America, the Philippines, and West Africa. Vividly colorful, comic-like illustrations fill the book’s pages and add to the appeal for young readers. A glossary is included at the back of the book along with a world map. The map helps young readers locate the various settings around the world.

Each chapter begins with a light-hearted teaser of what’s to come. One chapter opens with, “This tale features a jealous brother, a party game with a casket, the OG mummy, and a scavenger hunt for body parts.” Jealousy, love, revenge, and trickery are major topics and themes throughout the book. The Oracle of Wi-Fi appears throughout the book and provides additional information or explanations of story details and related topics. A frequent subject in the stories involves death, and the book shares how that facet of life is viewed in different cultures. The Aztecs’ Culture and people living in Madagascar, Ghana, and even New Orleans have found ways to honor and celebrate the dead. On another page, the oracle describes the different steps of mummification.

The final verdict:

Most young readers will love this book! Even reluctant readers will feel satisfaction in frequently completing the short stories. The informal language and humor blend well with information from a wide variety of folktales to create the overall positive experience. I highly recommend you give this book a shot.