The Frindle Files by Andrew Clements

What worked:

This book is related to the popular novel Frindle which was published in 1996. It’s an updated version where Paul is a student who loves computers and has a talent for coding. He’s frustrated and aggravated, along with most of his classmates, that his ELA teacher insists their daily writing assignments be handwritten with blue or black ink. Paul knows he’d finish in half the time if he could submit his work electronically. The teacher’s refusal to allow computers and technology prompts Paul to initiate a subtle rebellion.

The book is an updated version of Frindle. It turns out Paul’s teacher, Mr. N, is the student who “invented” the word frindle, a synonym for pen, a generation earlier. No one else is aware of this fact until Paul is forced to tell his best friend Vanessa. He anonymously reveals his knowledge to Mr. N but Paul is confused when his teacher seems upset that a student knows his secret. The situation escalates into a passive-aggressive clash of wills. Paul doesn’t understand why Mr. N doesn’t want anyone to know his secret and Mr. N tries to persuade Paul to remain silent. Paul uses his binary, computer brain to develop a plan to hack his teacher’s program.

The plot morphs into a civil action movement that readers won’t see coming. Paul and Vanessa have strong feelings about right and wrong even when they might be misguided or overemotional. Paul likes to methodically approach problems going step by step while Vanessa wants to jump right into confrontations. A positive trait they both possess is a willingness to reconsider their views as more evidence is gathered. This drive leads them to focus their efforts on a new target that affects the world beyond the school’s walls.

What didn’t work as well:

Paul is the main character but his initial attitude toward Mr. N’s may bother some readers. The idea of frindle in the first book was mischievous and playful but there’s no good reason why Paul needs to mess with his teacher’s secret. It feels wrong as the events unfold until Paul discovers something unexpected that charges his thoughts and directs him toward something with more public interest.

The final verdict:

This book truly is a modernized version of Frindle and I recommend you read it first. The story is heart-warming and describes the tight bond between Mr. N and his students. All middle-grade readers should enjoy this book and I recommend you give it a shot.

The Final Boss (Player vs. Player 3) by M.K. England

What worked:

I’ve not read the previous two books but the author does an effective job of recapping what readers need to know. Readers will be aware they’ve missed details but the important things to remember are the characters are in conflict with a gaming developer and they want to rescue their friend Wheatley. The most intriguing part of the story is that Wheatley is an AI and only exists within the gaming software. How is it that two girls and a boy are so passionately loyal and devoted to a character that doesn’t have a physical form? A major question arises as to whether Wheatley is sentient with a conscience and the ability to create its own thoughts.

Josh, Hannah, and Larkin find themselves in a difficult predicament with the gaming developer called Hurricane Games. They want to have futures in the gaming industry but Hurricane can ruin those dreams if they don’t give up their efforts to free Wheatley. Violations of the NDA the kids have signed can financially destroy their families. Ian is the despicable owner of the company and he’s aided by Shane, the lead program developer and coder. The kids know they can’t trust these men but they’re shocked at how low they’ll stoop to stop the kids.

Techie kids and players will love this book as it shares processes used in creating games. Josh, Hannah, and Larkin tour the Hurricane facility and observe different employees performing various jobs. One room is dedicated to war strategies. Another room shows actors and a director producing graphics for battle scenes and other rooms have workers coding games and various types of artists working together. The kids face three challenges in the Affinity game while they’re visiting Hurricane and each match pits them against four AI opponents. The company has spent millions of dollars toward developing the game so they’re not about to lose their investment because of a few kids. Josh, Hannah, and Larkin must overcome the rigged matches and blatant cheating to save Wheatley and their futures.

What didn’t work as well:

The character development is limited to gaming as this book is the first time Josh, Hannah, and Larkin have met in person. All of their interactions center on freeing Wheatley and beating Hurricane so readers don’t get to know them beyond a surface level. It’s also strange to read about an AI experiencing emotions but I guess that’s the point of the story!

The final verdict:

This book is perfect for readers who enjoy video games, especially those interested in how they’re made. The author creates an emotional story as the characters strive to save an AI that’s at the mercy of its creators. It takes human compassion to defeat the powers of technology and greed. I recommend you give this book a shot.

The Mailbox Tree by Rebecca Lim and Kate Gordon

What worked:

The story is set in future Tasmania as two young girls are distressed about their parents deciding their families must move away. Dust, heat, and dryness make up Nyx’s world but her father says a devastating flood is imminent. It makes no sense to her and she’s devastated about being forced to leave her home, where her mother is buried. Bea is also upset about moving even though she’s bullied at school. Nyx and Bea both find a peaceful place to think by climbing into the upper branches of the same pine tree although they’ve never met. Nyx writes an angry note about her father and leaves it in a knob of the tree and this leads to message swapping between the two girls. The book is written with alternating chapters sharing the thoughts, feelings, and anguish of Nyx and Bea.

Readers will soon realize something is off with the setting. Nyx describes how there’s no fresh food where she lives and people eat cryo, if they’re rich, or rehydro, if they’re not. On the other hand, Bea’s father is cooking ratatouille made from peas, sweet potatoes, or kale and the family raises bees for honey. Bea binge-watches “Lord of the Rings” movies every month. The lives of the two girls are starkly different so it’s hard to imagine they live in the same neighborhood. It’s not until one of Nyx’s notes mentions a bridge accident that readers, and Bea, will realize something strange is going on. The Mailbox Tree allows the girls to communicate across decades in time.

Both girls are feeling lonely and depressed and their relationship gives them a bit of optimism and happiness. Bea has been bullied for years and she can’t understand why she’s targeted. Everyone has different interests but Bea feels like she’s weird and no one will like her as a friend. Nyx also feels like she’s on her own because her mother has died and her father has a long-distance girlfriend. She’s sure her father wants to move because of the new woman, not because of impending flood waters. The story doesn’t mention any other kids in Nyx’s life and her father barely seems to notice when she’s around. Both girls are desperate for something positive in their lives so the magic of the Mailbox Tree seems like their salvation. Tasmania is nearing a disastrous apocalypse and Bea may be the only hope.

The final verdict:

This passionate, thoughtful story will touch readers’ heartstrings. Conservation of the environment is a major problem that should cause many people to reconsider how current decisions will impact the future. Overall, I highly recommend you give this poignant book a shot.

Into the Wild (Wolf Girl 1) by Anh Do

What worked:

Gwen’s family flees their home in the middle of the night but she ends up alone in the wilderness. The rest of the story is a survival adventure as she tries to reconnect with her parents and sister. The journey begins by simply trying to find food and water to stay alive, then collecting necessities while waiting for her parents to return, and she finally decides to search for other humans farther into the wilderness. The plot covers several years so it’s fast-paced. Many of the chapters involve practical survival strategies snakes and wild boars provide unexpected challenges.

The collection of canines is the highlight of the story as they come from a variety of breeds with unique personalities. Zip is a greyhound and the fastest of the group but his poor eyesight leads to collisions with immovable objects. Nosey is a Labrador who acts as their guide since he always knows which way to go. Tiny is a small Chihuahua with a mighty bark and a keen sense of hearing. The group is joined by a powerful mastiff called Brutus but it takes some time for him to accept the others. Finally, Puppy is Gwen’s first companion and the pair develop a very close bond. It takes a while for Gwen to realize Puppy is a wolf cub but readers will probably recognize it from the illustrations.

What didn’t work as well:

The text includes different font styles and sizes but it’s overdone. Changing the font helps to emphasize certain words but it loses its effect when it’s overused. The book’s ending will leave readers disappointed as they’re left with “to be continued” instead of resolving the conflict.

The final verdict:

The book has a dog-centered survival story that should appeal to most young readers. Readers should plan to read the sequel since the plot is unfinished and will continue later. If readers are prepared to continue the series, I recommend they give the book a shot. 

The Secret of the Fang (Meesh the Bad Demon 2) by Michelle Lam

What worked:

Meesh has become the Guardian of the Underworld but she lacks confidence in her abilities. This is understandable in new heroes so it’s nice to see she’s not an immediate expert. Meesh’s eyes turn red in the illustrations to let readers know she’s tapping into her powers. Meesh has several friends who are willing to help and it takes her a while to realize she doesn’t need to save everyone by herself. Princess Nouna is a fairy who is trying to shake off her image as a media personality. Xavier is a demon who feels less than adequate when he compares his talents with the others. All three of these main characters undergo growth and transformation as they try to defend the Underworld together.

The Underworld is full of drama as a result of previous injustices. Characters are comprised of demons, fairies, and demon-fairies and demon-fairies are the outcasts. Assumptions and prejudices are aimed at the demon-fairies but most of the current characters seem unaware of them. Meesh isn’t happy with what she learns and she’s determined to make things right. A major obstacle is the new leader of the demon-fairies is focused on revenge and doesn’t have any plans to get along with the other creatures. A new weapon is nearing completion that will wipe out everyone in the Underworld.

The author’s illustrations clearly show the different settings found in the Underworld. The pictures allow readers to visualize the forested Ponderosa, the darker world of Mount Magma, the beauty of Plumeria, and a new underground city. The characters have distinct appearances which help readers instantly recognize them in each scene. This may seem like a small detail but it’s not always the case in graphic novels with creatures. There are many unique characters throughout the story and the author uses noticeable facial expressions to communicate a range of emotions. Several flashbacks enhance the story and different-colored text boxes help to differentiate the past from the present.

What didn’t work as well:

The backstory isn’t immediately evident if you haven’t read the previous book. Meesh is Guardian of the Underworld but the meaning and significance of that is not immediately evident. She’s the one demon able to fly but it’s not clear what her other abilities might be. Also, there are graphic panels without words where what’s happening isn’t clear.

The final verdict:

It’s helpful for young readers to see dynamic characters grow into better versions of themselves. The story shares the importance of kindness and forgiveness. Overall, this graphic novel presents a thoughtful tale and I recommend you give it a shot.

We Do Not Welcome Our Ten-Year-Old Overlord by Garth Nix

What worked:

The concept of the book is very intriguing. Kim’s younger sister is a know-it-all but she becomes possessed by some ball-like being from space. Kim can stop it from taking over his mind so he knows how dangerous it can be. However, Eila thinks she’s helping the being she calls Aster so she won’t listen to her brother’s warnings. Kim becomes more worried when Eila starts sneaking the orb out at night and he watches the alien’s light kill thousands of red ants. He tries to get rid of the ball but receives an electric shock for his efforts. Readers’ emotions will range from concern for Eila, to annoyance with her superior attitude, to anger that she’s endangering other humans. Aster’s initial experiments aren’t too serious so readers aren’t sure what to make of the alien. Will it end up helping the world as Eila claims or will Kim’s worst fears come true?

Kim’s best friend is Bennie and the two of them have a tight bond. She always supports Kim’s ideas but she can be more impulsive than him. She’s willing to try touching Aster even after it sends a jolt of electricity through Kim. Their other two D&D friends, Tamara and Theo, become more significant characters in the second half of the book. They’re skeptical of Aster’s existence at first until Kim shows them solid evidence. Theo is the most thoughtful character as he doesn’t jump to conclusions and takes the time to observe and ponder possibilities. He offers a more practical viewpoint than what Kim and Bennie show up to that point.

The author adds a contrast in lifestyles through Kim and Bennie’s families. Kim’s parents run an experimental farm for the government and don’t believe in electronics. The kids are required to help with chores around the house and the farm and they insist on the whole family sitting together for dinner at six o’clock. Kim’s parents wouldn’t approve if they knew he was playing Dungeons and Dragons with his friends. On the other hand, Bennie’s parents are busy with their careers and rarely spend time with their kids. They often argue in front of Bennie and her sister which puts a lot of strain on their mental health. Kim and Bennie are well acquainted with each other’s family situations and they’re always there for each other with emotional support.

What didn’t work as well:

Kim has viable evidence that the ball is dangerous but the author still has him go through the motions of his normal life. He knows the alien is a threat to humanity so why is Kim having fun playing Dungeons and Dragons instead of obsessing over the problem? His friends still want to make time to play the game even as the problem escalates. Readers may wonder if the game has more importance than simply being a fun activity.

The final verdict:

Eila’s know-it-all attitude adds a twist to the conflict as the action ramps up to an exciting, suspenseful climax. The possession of a ten-year-old girl is unusual and compelling which should attract the interest of young readers. I recommend you give this book a shot.

Mr. Smarty Pants: Awww Nuts! by Charity Reid

What worked:

Historical facts are worked into the story as Benjamin, Mr. Smarty Pants, is related to George Washington Carver. Carver has 300 patents related to peanuts, while ironically, Benjamin has a severe allergy to them. Benjamin also has a creative mind like his distant uncle and he’s come up with various inventions related to his peanut allergy his family’s nut processing factory. One of his creations is a security device he uses to protect his Top Secret Carver Nut Factory Book from theft. One feature requires a thief to answer three questions correctly to stop an alarm from going off. Readers learn that one of George Washington Carver’s discoveries was not peanut butter!

The listing indicates this book is for ages nine and up but the graphic novel format makes it accessible to younger readers. The dialogue is appropriate for emerging readers or students on the lower end of middle grades. The large pages and colorful illustrations are eye-catching and the author “artfully” displays the characters’ emotions through facial expressions. All of the pages contain multiple graphic panels with short text bubbles sharing a fast-paced plot. The conflict involves an ongoing feud between Mr. Smarty Pants and his nemesis Deon, also called Dark Midnight. The clash is a curious contrast between young classmates and a more “serious” competition between entrepreneurs. The problem never gets too severe and it’s easy to follow. Bennie’s friend Jemma is the voice of reason and her input is valuable in defusing the situation. The rivalry is sure to continue in a sequel based on the book’s resolution.

What didn’t work as well:

More experienced middle-grade readers may not appreciate some comical aspects of the story. A few of Bennie’s inventions are the Smash-O-Matic 5000, the Nut’Uh detector clip, the PB Slayer 2.0, and the Smell-O-Meter. An invitation to a pizza party is a large part of a rescue. However, the descriptions are appropriate for the target audience and help with the book’s entertainment value.

The final verdict:

The book is a light-hearted tale for young emerging readers interested in science and technology. The plot is easy to follow and the graphic novel format can be read quickly. I recommend you give it a shot.

The Serpent Rider by Yxavel Magno Dino

What worked:

A prophecy saying Tani will be her village’s savior becomes a major issue. She’s training along with other warriors but she’s the only one who doesn’t have a serpent companion called a bakunawa to help her fight. She’s the best when it comes to fighting with swords but a rival named Bato can now beat her with the help of his fire bakunawa. Tani is frustrated that her bakunawa egg still hasn’t hatched which leads to her making bad choices. She’s embarrassed and angry since the villagers expect her to save them when the Great Bakunawa rises from the depths of the sea but she’s not even the top warrior from the recruits. The final straw occurs when her timid best friend Kiri hatches his water bakunawa and she can’t help defend the village from a monster.

Action lovers will enjoy this adventure as Tani faces non-stop, man-eating creatures and other dangers. She travels to unknown parts of the jungle where she’s forced to enter a dark, dangerous cave and scale a formidable mountain. She encounters a witch-like old woman with a bakunawa that’s able to control shadows. A formidable manananggal separates into two parts as its torso flies with bat-like wings and its jaws wield razor-sharp fangs. Tani and her friends fear for their lives when a giant clenches them in its massive fists. They’re overwhelmed by a relentless swarm of aswang before facing the Great Bakunawa in the story’s climax. Readers will barely have time to relax before the characters face another deadly challenge all throughout the plot.

Readers will connect with Tani’s determination to rescue her younger sister Ligaya, the village’s storykeeper. Tani’s desperation for her own bakunawa created the problem and the love she has for Ligaya keeps her going. Tani has a kind heart that proves to be a valuable asset during her quest. Her acts of compassion toward foes result in unexpected outcomes. Ligaya also exhibits caring and forgiveness toward a malevolent character which projects a positive message to readers. A surprise ending awaits when the story reaches its climax.

What didn’t work as well:

The story includes many Filipino terms and names that are probably unfamiliar to young readers. It’s not a big issue but it may cause readers to pause and think at times.

The final verdict:

Young readers won’t want to put the book down as Tani faces one challenge after another. Tani and the characters learn it’s important to understand the thoughts and feelings of others, their motivations, to dispel unfounded assumptions. This book is very entertaining and engaging and I highly recommend you give it a shot.

Hannah Edwards: Secrets of Riverway by Ashley Hards

What worked:

I’m always interested in how authors motivate readers in the opening pages to keep them reading. This author uses an unusual strategy by having the first chapter describe how uninteresting the town has become. It makes readers curious to find something unexpected. The river that once carved out a canyon is now a trickling stream and canola farms have replaced the booming barley industry. The old, drafty school holds students from elementary through high school although ghosts might, or might not, be spotted there. The town tries to maintain an image of the Old West but the shop owners aren’t always hospitable. The most interesting thing happening now is that Hannah’s father has been missing for three months and she intends to find out where he’s gone. Readers quickly discover the town has more mystery and adventure than it seems.

The story is presented as Hannah’s journal entries where she records everything she learns from her investigation. It’s supposed to be her grief journal. Hannah’s voice speaks directly to readers which helps to draw them into the book. She explains events and her thoughts throughout the story and shares the importance of keeping accurate, thorough records. She even transcribes her tape-recorded interviews. One chapter is written in prose using a style Hannah learned in class. The chapters allow readers into her neurodivergent mind as her thoughts often switch to different topics or her brain becomes fixated on one task. She has trouble sitting still and frequent daydreaming should be expected. The chapters also describe Hannah’s irritation toward her Uncle Fergus and her suspicions about the school guidance counselor. Could Ms. Grant be a witch?

Early parts of the book allow readers to wonder if anything supernatural is happening. Hannah’s best friend Sam says he’s seen a ghost in the abandoned mill and he’s pretty sure it looked just like her father. Hannah doesn’t believe in ghosts so she’s skeptical of Sam’s story. She finds explanations for ghostly evidence they encounter plus she’s not ready to believe her father is dead. Denial is a natural reaction to tragedy and Hannah has been dealing with grief since her father’s disappearance. It takes the entire book until she finally accepts the truth and can heal her broken heart.

What didn’t work as well:

Uncle Fergus comes across as a shifty character right from the start. It would be nice if his sneaky, manipulative qualities were more subtle so readers could discover his dishonesty on their own.

The final verdict:

The plot addresses the grief of suddenly losing a loved one in the form of a ghostly mystery. Sam loyally stands by Hannah even when she holds out hope for her father despite increasing evidence that he’s gone. This book should appeal to lovers of ghosts and small-town mysteries and I recommend you give it a shot.

The Oracle's Door by Zetta Elliott

What worked:

This book is the backstory for a series. It’s set in the early 1900s when black families flee the South only to discover they’re not universally accepted in the North. Families from different ethnicities don’t interact despite living as neighbors on the same streets. Racial tension runs throughout the story and the Red Summer is the climactic moment in the plot. The Red Summer occurred in 1919 when riots between blacks and whites spilled into Chicago streets. The story includes historical references to add authenticity and to describe the emotional turbulence of the times.

The plot follows Vinny’s journey into a magical world called Palmara where she learns she has powers and can train to become a witch. Sis is the Guardian of the realm and Vinny and L. Roy, her best friend, have mixed reactions to Sis’s view of humans. L. Roy is offended that she thinks humans are violent and crave power but Vinny knows there is truth in the Guardian’s words. Vinny becomes connected to a baby dragon but its critical condition after a premature birth has her worried. Sis, Vinny, and L. Roy have different ideas about what is best for the dragon and it develops into a major issue between them.

Vinny experiences racism from white neighbors and she struggles when her desire to stand up for herself conflicts with her mother’s wish for her to mind her place. Vinny’s father had been hanged by white men and Vinny had stones thrown at her while walking along the shore of Lake Michigan. Readers can understand Vinnie’s desire to live her own life but they can also appreciate her mother’s protective nature. Vinny’s grandmother doesn’t interfere with the mother’s decisions but she offers Vinny counseling and comfort when they’re alone. The story includes an old man the children fear but Vinny finds out he’s misunderstood and may be a valuable ally.

What didn’t work as well:

Readers can enjoy this book independent of the series but they’ll miss out on connections with the rest of the series. This book lacks significant tension and suspense in the plot as Vinny discovers the new world. There is friction between characters but the Red Summer offers the most serious consequences but doesn’t arise until the climax.

The final verdict:

While the discovery of Palmara is important, the book mainly addresses racial pressure and uncertainty during this time in history. Vinny’s relationships with her mother and best friend present different kinds of conflict that highlight the story. This book is more compelling than readers might expect and I recommend you give it a shot.

Beware the Heartman by Shakirah Bourne

What worked:

One of the main characters is autistic but the author includes him from a different angle. Ahkai doesn’t like physical contact or interacting with others but Jo is his best friend and neighbor. In some ways, Jo has more difficulty dealing with human relationships than him. She’s anxious about starting a new school year but becomes especially fearful when she learns Ahkai will be going to a different building. She’s desperate to get her assignment changed but she’ll need to convince her father first. To complicate matters, the daughter of a family friend is staying with Ahkai and his grandmother so Jo is afraid she’s losing her best friend.

There is a supernatural element to the story set in Barbados but the author introduces it gradually. Jo senses things are off and recalls a clash with a malevolent creature named Mariss from a previous book. Tales are told around town about the Heartman but Jo suspects they’re just stories to scare kids into behaving. However, she hears rattling sounds in the long grass and sees shapes in the night which makes her imagination take over. A magical tree holds malevolent spirits and she wonders if something wicked may have escaped. Could Mariss somehow be the one responsible for the disappearances of Jo’s cricket coach and teammate?

The strange things are unsettling but readers will become suspicious of two characters. Lynne has a problem with Jo even before they meet and it’s unclear why. She makes snide comments and amused facial expressions when Jo is upset. Jo overhears a conversation where Lynne says she doesn’t understand why Ahkai puts up with Jo. Readers will wonder about the untold secrets behind Lynne’s presence and wonder if she’s good or bad. Mr. Atkins is a teacher and he’s been behaving oddly. One of Jo’s teachers is dating her dad and Mr. Atkins has been treating the woman poorly. He can be found patrolling the streets each night and he seems nervous around the magical tree. Lynne and Mr. Atkins are behaving suspiciously which allows readers to speculate about what they are hiding.

What didn’t work as well:

Ahkai is described as being on the autistic spectrum but he doesn’t seem much different from other characters. As mentioned, he helps Jo deal with anxiety and offers her suggestions on how she might interact with others. There’s nothing wrong with this per se but I’m not sure why the concept of autism is attached to Ahkai. Maybe he behaves differently in the first book of the series.

The final verdict:

The concept of the Heartman is gory but the author adds an unexpected twist to the tale. The character relationships highlight the book, especially the clash between Jo and Lynne. Overall, I recommend you give this exciting book a shot.

Exit Nowhere by Juliana Brandt

What worked:

Barret Eloise has a low self-image despite being the smartest girl in the seventh grade. She has difficulty knowing what to say to others which explains why she doesn’t have any friends. She used to be friends with Helena until something happened in the fourth grade but Barret Eloise doesn’t remember what she did. The pair are assigned a group project with Wayne, another smart student, and Ridge, an outstanding basketball player. Ridge isn’t shy about sharing his thoughts which creates tension with Barret Eloise. On the other hand, introverted Barret Eloise slowly realizes she has a crush on Wayne which causes its own form of anxiety.

The author masterfully crafts her words to create a creepy, eerie atmosphere. The book opens by saying Raithfield Manor looks exactly like a rotting skull, plants hanging from the roof are like moss covering bones, and there’s a blackened hole in the center of the mansion’s face. The haunted house is surrounded by bushes with “little scratchy fingers that clawed skin and snagged hair.” The inside of the abandoned house has the expected dark, dusty rooms with creepy, creaky floors although it holds unexpected surprises. The kids know a boy named Eugene disappeared in the house decades earlier, he was the boyfriend of Ridge’s grandmother, so they hope to uncover the mystery of what happened to him. They quickly realize they’re in trouble when they see words scratched into the “feathery ice that slicked the walls.” YOU. WEREN’T. SUPPOSED. TO WIN.

The most entertaining part of the story is the spirit haunting the house and the challenges it presents. The identity of it isn’t what the characters expect but some readers might anticipate the truth. I don’t want to give away any spoilers so I won’t say more about that. The first obstacle is a floor of lava that most young readers will have played. They won’t have experienced the flames and intense heat that make this a life-threatening problem for the kids. Additional encounters are equally dangerous but they’re unpredictable due to the ghost’s past. The ghost doesn’t like to lose. The characters will need to learn the ghost's motivation and uncover its mysteries to stay alive and escape Raithfield Manor.

What didn’t work as well:

It’s unclear what happens to other people who’ve lost the ghost’s games in the past. The public should have known more about the house based on what readers learn about their demises. This next thing is petty on my part but I agree with Ridge that Barret Eloise’s name has too many syllables. It would work better if she hadn’t been the main character and her name didn’t appear as often.

The final verdict:

Barret Eloise’s journey to self-discovery is the main thread throughout the plot. She doesn’t truly understand how to be a friend until Helena helps her reflect on her past. The overall story is spooky without being over the top and I recommend you give it a shot.

The Pinchers and the Dog Chase by Anders Sparring & Per Gustavsson

What worked:

This fast-paced story will appeal to younger or emerging readers. The opening pages describe Theo’s family and their different criminal interests. His grandmother is a retired thief and she’s serving time in the jail. Various chapters throughout the book find the pet dog speaking directly to readers. He explains how he gets the name Shuddup Sherlock (because of his barking) and he offers a different perspective when Officer Clive, a new policeman, tries to ship him off to the North Pole. This conflict becomes the focus of the plot. Theo is an appealing character since he’s trying to live an honest life even though the rest of his family members are criminals, even his little sister. Theo dresses like the rest of his family, striped shirt plus a mask covering his eyes, so Officer Clive assumes he’s a crook too. Theo resorts to trickery to save his dog rather than doing anything illegal.

Almost every page has a color picture to help young readers envision what’s being described. The author’s light-hearted tone reflects the humor of the characters and their relationships. Theo’s little sister doesn’t understand why she should pay money for anything she can steal and she continuously crosses her fingers to cover up her frequent lies. Interestingly, a policeman lives next door to the Pincher’s home and he’s a good friend to Theo. Theo’s grandma, Stola Pincher, is spending her time in jail but the loose visitation rules and enforcement make it seem more like an apartment.

What didn’t work as well:

The plot is very basic and more-capable readers will probably feel it falls short. It doesn’t have much tension or suspense. There’s little character development and the plot doesn’t have any surprising twists but that makes the story more appropriate for readers trying to develop their skills.

The final verdict:

Most young readers will be able to quickly finish this pleasant book. They’ll be entertained by the levity of the story and characters and the pictures illustrate the amusing situations. Overall, I recommend you give this book a shot.

Dungeon Runners: Hero Trial by Kieran Larwood

What worked:

Kit is an undersized monster with feelings of inferiority and proving himself.  His best friend is a tiny gobrot called Kleekoo living in the walls of his home. Kit is overjoyed with the opportunity to become a Dungeon Runner until he realizes he doesn’t have many friends. He’s finally joined by an aspiring swamp witch who only knows one spell (making a tiny sand castle) and a vampire who’s become vegan (or is he?). That leaves Kit to be the Triple Trouble warrior even though he isn’t strong, has no fighting abilities, and must make his wooden sword and shield. Readers will root for this motley crew especially when they become the laughingstock of their competitors and the contest’s “television” hosts. The plot includes Kit’s neighborhood bully who makes enough appearances to be annoying. Kit and his new friends are able to persevere with teamwork highlighting their high cleverness scores.

The Dungeon Runner trial provides a taste of what readers will encounter as the series moves on. It’s set in a dark, damp, dingy dungeon with a maze of confusing hallways and doors. The characters don’t know if the next turn will lead to a deadly creature, dangerous challenge, treasure, or janitor’s closet. The Hero Trial arises after a team in the Master League is eaten by a dragon, highlighting the very real dangers. Kit doesn’t know if the other competitors might try sabotaging his team or if they could become allies. Triple Trouble tries navigating the tunnels logically but that doesn’t always work out as expected. Other characters can view the action on a show hosted by Jenna the Giant and Dirk the Orc. These characters provide contest information and reflect changing attitudes toward Kit and his teammates.

What didn’t work as well:

The plot is simple to follow and readers shouldn’t expect much character and plot development. Cursory backstories are shared but only enough to establish the current problem. However, the simplicity makes it excellent for emerging readers and those looking for an easy, fun adventure.

The final verdict:

This book is best for mid-elementary readers as it’s fast-paced and includes black-and-white illustrations to enhance the story. The unlikely heroes are an odd mix of likeable creatures who join together searching for glory and respect.  Overall, many young readers will enjoy this entertaining story and I recommend you give it a shot.

Operation Bungaree (The Inkwell Chronicles 3) by J.D. Peabody

What worked:

The whole series revolves around Ink, a magical substance found inside the earth. Inklings want to use it to enhance creativity while blotters have more dastardly plans. The plot has two main antagonists with opposing schemes that put them in competition with each other. Cyno wants to use Ink to amass power while Eddie is only concerned about making money and killing Ev, a main character. Eddie’s scientist has already invented a synthetic Ink called Inkanto but the formula requires some of the real substance. Eddie finds a tree full of Ink in the first chapter but he learns the hard way that he can’t simply cut it down to transport and extract the substance. Ink is a very rare element and all of the subplots involve locating a major deposit somewhere in the world.

The first page jumps into the main problem as Ev falls into an active volcano. He only manages to survive by Leap Reading into one of his father’s comic books. His sister Bea is the only one who truly knows he’s still alive but the author adds a complication that will make him harder to rescue. Ev has landed in a manual that’s inside the comic book so Bea doesn’t have a clear way of locating him. Ev encounters an imaginary world he’s not experienced before so readers will accompany him as he tries to figure out a way to escape. He meets a robot caretaker named Archie who shares information and adds humor to the story.

The author shifts the setting to describe Ev’s adventure inside the comic book, Bea’s efforts to rescue her brother, and the nefarious activities of the two villains. The author has fun with the imaginative world inside the comic book by playing with the writing process and creative freedom. Bea enlists the help of her father and friends and blends their talents to come up with an innovative rescue plan. The plan involves a rocket scientist so you know there will be some higher order thinking. The bad guys do their best to thwart Bea’s efforts while clashing with each other. Cyno’s minions fearfully follow orders and their antics add humor to the book. The author also provides levity by incorporating (inkcorporating) the word ink into different words used in the story, like Inkubator.

What didn’t work as well:

There are too many settings that can affect the flow of the main conflict and keeping track of all of the characters is more challenging. Anything over three settings isn’t necessary and can be incorporated into other subplots.

The final verdict:

You need to read the previous books to fully understand what’s happening. The author has invented an imaginative world where Ink is a valuable, rare, and powerful resource. Ev’s suspenseful predicament will keep readers engrossed while the determination of his sister and the villains supply plenty of twists to the tale. I recommend you give this series a shot.