Puffin and Penguin, written by Helaine Becker and illustrated by Kevin Sylvester. Kids Can Press, 2024. $18.99 ages 5 and up

"B-b-but no one even knew what 
a puffin was! 

So you felt misunderstood? But 
that's not really Penguin's fault, 
is it? 

Maybe your classmates need 
some egg-ucation. A bit of 
puffin pedagogy. 

Huh?"

Moving from Iceland for his mother's new job has been a bit daunting for Puffin; New Stork City proves to be quite the new home and the prospect of attending a new school with others whose parents work with Mom is full of excitement. 

His avian classmates and teacher are happy to welcome Puffin to their classroom. A buddy system is used to help students find their way in a new school. Penguin will be Puffin's buddy. Neither seems delighted with the circumstance. Penguin is very kind to all classmates, and shows concern and committment to make things better for everyone. Penguin is also very busy, with a long to-do list and many interests. It's hard to be a buddy when so much of your time is already taken. Penguin reluctantly agrees. Puffin is delighted. 

That delight and excitement is tempered by Penguin's assertion that he has little extra time for being a best friend. Puffin's optimism for making new friends falls flat when the other students consider him a penguin, but funny-looking. His parents encourage him to take some time to get to know everyone better by letting them know about puffins. He can do that! 

His reporting doesn't have the desired effect. Hatching a new plan goes awry. Penguin steps up to help Puffin find something important to do. Puffin is in charge of the lighting. When things go wrong during the performance of King Midas and the Golden Pinkie, it is Puffin's quick thinking that leads to success. 

Readers new to graphic novels will find much to enjoy: likeable characters, humor, drama, and a developing friendship.

Tasty: A History of Yummy Experiments. Written and illustrated by Victoria Grace Elliott. Random House Graphic, 2023. $18.99 ages 9 and up

"How did anyone possibly come up with 
the idea to make water fizzy? 

Well, from nature itself! 

Hm ... come to think of it, we know 
someone from a natural spring. 
Maybe we ought to ask her!"  

This follow-up to Yummy (Random House, 20021) has readers learning about the history of six much-loved foods and their ingredients: cheese, pizza, pickles, soda, easy food, and gelatin. The design for each of the chapters provides an abundance of information about foods that are of interest to the target audience. The graphic novel format adds much to the appeal for middle graders. 

Food sprites (Peri, Fee, Fada and Naia) guide readers through a wealth of information and learning as they explore the origins of each food. Beginning with cheese, a world map shows an atlas of cheese history, with numbered spots showing where each cheese originated. Questions are asked, journal entries shown, and science lab explanations are given. Storytimes, interviews, apt descriptions for the variety in cheeses, and a recipe for making your own lead directly to the second chapter; pizza! 

This just might prove to be the first chapter that most readers choose for their reading. If so, it must begin with both the ingredients used originally and the breads that provided the base for those first 'pies'. Space is given to the development of the various styles of pizza that are now enjoyed around the world.     

"Maybe you want yours PERFECT! As close
to the original as possible. Or maybe you 
prefer something with a more familiar or 
experimental taste. Delicious and divisive, 
pizza started small but truly became a global 
phenomenon."

If you like pickles on your pizza, you will happily move right on to the next chapter to learn about the 20 varieties that are popular worldwide. The text in the fourth chapter moves on to discuss the development of cream, ginger, malt, and fruity sodas, before changing focus again to discuss easy foods like canned foods, cream cheese, Velveeta, macaroni pie, KD, condensed soups, spam, instant ramen, budae jjigae, frozen food, and others. Almost all were developed in North America so most readers will find them familiar. Recipes to try are provided. 

Finally, it's on to gelatin which has its origins in many parts of the world. I had no idea! 

Extremely informative, while never overwhelming for readers, there is much to learn here. The art has real appeal as readers process what the text has to teach. The design keeps readers focused and entertained, and the book itself offers much that would benefit starting a research project. A lengthy bibliography provides needed help. Well-presented, this book is great fun and filled with new learning.                

The New Girl, by Cassandra Calin. Scholastic, 2024. $16.99 ages 9 and up

 

"Anyway ... I wanted to tell you I saw an 
ad at school. They're looking for an artist 
to work on the school magazine. 

I'm thinking of applying.

What a fantastic idea! 
I agree, honey. It'll be a 
great way to meet more 
people. 

True ... plus, I've always 
wanted to share my art 
with more people."

Can't imagine being the new girl ... never mind that you are 12, have just arrived in Canada from Romania, and got your first unpleasant period while waiting at the airport before your flight to Canada boards! Are the odds against Lia, or what? 

Her family settles in Montreal. Lia, who does speak English, doesn't speak French. How will she make friends at her new school? She is in the school's iimmersion program to help her learn the new language, but she understands little that anyone is saying to or around her. She meets other international students, many facing some of the same issues. It takes time; together they find common ground and begin to deal with friendship, school, after-school activities, crushes, cliques, body image and the changes that happen in adolescence.  

Lia's transition to this life is difficult at times. She has support from her family, perseveres through many of the same issues that others her age are facing, and works through the misunderstandings. Her love of art and creativity help her find some common ground while also posing some problems. In the end, she is content with life as it presents itself and enjoys the results of the changes for her family. 

Ms. Callin's storytelling is engaging and real. Lia deals with those things common to many immigrant youth as they come to terms with life in their new country. Lia's middle school days are often chaotic as she deals with so much all at once. The illustrations are effective and often humorous. Her use of text speech bubbles helps readers see other languages in colored coding, while scribbles represent the French that Lia does not understand. There is a real awareness for the difficulty in learning a new language. Graphic novel fans will find much to like here. 

Plain Jane and the Mermaid, by Vera Brosgol. First Second, Macmillan. Raincoast, 2024. $19.99 ages 10 and up

 

"Hey, stop it!
You were just a kid. 
A selfish person wouldn't 
have helped me.
A coward wouldn't have 
gone as far as you have ...
Just to save someone who I'm 
pretty sure doesn't deserve it. 

But that's selfish too. No one 
else would marry me. 

I mean, look at me."

Poor Jane! After being treated poorly by her parents throughout her life, the sudden death of the two only adds to her many difficulties. She is being threatened with eviction from the family home. The law says marriage is her only option if she wants to stay. To that end, she suggests a plan to an unhappy young fisherman that they should be married; she would get the family fortune, he would get the money needs to live the life of his dreams. 

It seems to be working until Peter is captured by a mermaid and put in an underwater prison. With magical help, Jane makes her way to the mermaid village far below the surface. It is a dangerous mission, requiring the assistance of cantankerous (while also engaging) seal who helps her learn about the dangers inherent in life under the sea. 

The mermaid (and her sisters) who has taken Peter is vainer that Jane can imagine and uses her beauty to further victimize Jane. Luckily, Jane is learning that she has much to offer. She is persistent in her quest to save Peter and proves she has great worth while doing so. 

Ms. Brosgol creates an expressive and charming character in Jane. She manages to hold her own in a story that looks closely at beauty, daring to do the right thing, and friendship. Middle graders who have a penchant for graphic novels will find much to appreciate in Jane's story. The story moves along quickly, with many twists and turns ... just what many readers are wanting to read. The ending is very satisfying for all. 

Tryouts, by Sarah Sax. Alfred A. Knopf, Penguin Random House. 2024. $18.99 ages 8 and up

"OK ...
But just because they'll 
let you try out ... 

it doesn't mean they'll 
give you your fair shot 
to play. 

Yeah, but why wouldn't 
they? That'd be a bad 
move for the new coach! 

Al's great!"

In this second graphic novel in the Brinkley Yearbooks series, Alexandra Olsen is in seventh grade. She's been successfully playing recreation league baseball for a number of years; this year, she decides to try out for the boy's team as that is the only ball team they have at her school. The team has a new coach, who is very happy to welcome Al. Julian Veras also makes the team. 

As for the others, Milo moves beyond what is comfortable for him and joins the art club. It's a big step. Viv is interested in the old school mascot and decides to bring the Brinkley Beak back. As the only female member on the ball team, Al is interviewed by a television reporter. Her teammates are not happy and are lacking a will to work together. To deal with their complaints, Al becomes more and more demanding of them. 

These are great characters, exhibiting many of the same behaviors that are so prevalent in a middle school setting. Readers will recognize the feelings and issues as ones they may be feeling. Al is a sympathetic and well-developed character whose presence on the team generates opinions and observations about a lack of equity in sports for girls and women. It is interesting to note that little is being mentioned about the girls' basketball team's undefeated season while so much attention is paid to Al and boys' baseball. 

Full of the action that comes with middle school sports, and a clear message about teamwork and doing what you do best, this is a novel that will find many fans. 

Beaky Barnes and the Devious Duck, written and illustrated by David Ezra Stein. Penguin Workshop, Penguin Random House. 2024. $24.99 ages 7 and up

 

"Okay! Here's all my money! 

$$$

Elixir of Strength, 
come to Papa! 

POIT!

Bleah! It smells like 
low tide." 

Beaky Barnes is back in a second graphic novel that has much to do with libraries and librarians. Devious Duck arrives on a train that stops at the Simpleton town limits. Readers will know that his reading material is a tad suspicious; the book is called How to Fool People. 

Immediately, he begs for bread. The baker is kind enough to share a slice; he is not impressed with Duck's messy eating habits. There are other things going on around town: the Inspector is eating oatmeal with too much molasses and complaining about it; Beaky is off to work at the library while leaving her chick in the capable hands of her roommate, the Inventor; Chickie is causing a great deal of trouble in the Great Idea Nest; and Duck is conning an old woman to get all the food she has that was meant to feed the birds. 

Duck needs money to live. His book gives him an idea for making some. Filling some bottles with pond water and trying to sell it as an elixir, he cons the Inspector into giving up all of his money to buy it. Duck now has the money needed; the Inspector is building the strength it promises. Both soon require a sleep.

It is not the last of Duck's plans to dupe community members. As that is happening, much is going on around town. When Duck ends up at the library looking for more information to scam people, he has met his match. What follows says a lot about the talents and value of those who make libraries run smoothly. Devious Duck learns needed lessons through exceptional artwork that is trademark David Ezra Stein. Each of the elements in this tale of community support and kindness come together in an unconventional finale. 

Be on the lookout for the next installment!

Oris and Peanut Forever and Ever, words by Naseem Hrab and drawings by Kelly Collier. Owlkids, 2024. $21.95 ages 4 and up

"A second cake?

We'll save the first 
cake for a very special
occasion ... 

and we'll eat 
this one for no reason 
at all! 

Eat cake for no reason? 

No reason is a perfectly 
good reason." 

Otis and Peanut are back with three stories about friendship, cake, loss, and memories. In the first, Peanut brings a surprise. It's the strawberry cake they both love because it was one of Pearl's favorite recipes. Otis thinks it should be saved for a more special time. Peanut solves their dilemma by bringing another cake the next day. The first can be saved for another time; this one can be eaten right away. When Otis learns that Peanut iced it with Pearl's cream cheese frosting, he's willing to eat it 'for no reason at all'. Over the next few days, they eat the cake with tea, on a swing, and on the bus ... until every morsel is devoured. 

In the second, Peanut is nearly frantic when he thinks he has eaten the last of Pearl's strawberry jam. He searches high and low for more, and is lucky enough to find the last jar. Remembering that Pearl left  strawberry seeds, he takes the time to plant them in his garden. Once done, he settles in for lemonade and a read on the porch. Fatigue leads to a snooze and a dream about the fun he and Pearl once had together. He knows it will never be the same again without Pearl; a beautiful memory it remains.

In the final chapter, Peanut's visit to Otis leads to a discussion about memories. Otis likes to save his in a memory book; Peanut says he keeps them in his head. Maybe those memories will fade as time passes, says Otis. As they pore over the pages of Otis's book, they remember fun times with Pearl. The next day, Peanut returns with his wagon and a box he's filling with his favorite memories. Together, they head off to make more, and add them to the box. Now, they have both new and old memories. How lovely! 

Kelly Collier's artwork shares the emotions of friendship and loss, while also leaving readers recognizing that our memories can hold both happy and sad moments in life. Support from friends makes all the difference. A list of ideas for remembering is appended. 

I love these characters, and look forward to meeting them again!

Narwhal's Sweet Tooth, written and illustrated by Ben Clanton. tundra, Penguin Random House. 2024. $16.99 ages 4 and up

"Huh, I guess not everyone 
shows how they feel in the
same way, Narwhal.
Maybe you just don't 
frown when you're down? 
But then, what do you do?

I'm not 
sure ... "

If you have a fan in your home or classroom, I'm sure they have been waiting with bated breath for this ninth book in the Narwhal and Jelly graphic novel series. 

A strange feeling in his tusk has Narwhal wondering how it looks to his friend Jelly. Jelly's astonished face is enough to get Narwhal thinking how the crack that is there might have happened. Could it have been fencing lessons with a swordfish, or ring toss with an octopus, or using it as a flagpole? Finally, Narwhal mentions the snacks: peanut butter cookies, cakes, ice cream, brownies? All sweet stuff. It turns out that Narwhal has been using his tusk as a snack saver. 

What is that, you ask. Why, it's a place to stack snacks and then leave them for eating when ready. Jelly observes just thinking about all those snacks affords a toothache. Something needs to be done about the state of Narwhal's tusk. And all that snacking.  Shark is well versed in dental hygiene. Of course! Think of all those teeth she has to take care of every day.

The four stories told are full of fun and friendship. Part of the telling involves Jelly and Crab wanting Narwhal, who does nothing but smile, to know it is all right to frown sometimes. If feeling upset about something, he can allow for a bad day sometimes. Narwhal asserts that his mood is mostly a happy one. He makes those around him feel the same way. 

Fun for fans and a worthwhile addition to a very popular series. 

Science Comics: Elephants Living Large. Written by Jason Viola and illustrated by Faylnn Koch. First Second, Macmillan. Raincoast, 2024. $16.99 ages 9 and up

"The biggest threat to our family would be 
Grandmother's death. I don't know what 
we would do. 

If we lost her, it would be as if we lost 
ourselves. 

I worry about what could happen 
without her to guide us."

If you have not read or even seen the Science Comics series books, quick to the library to see what they have! Here are but a few of the titles: Dinosaurs, Coral Reefs, Bats, Robots and Drones, Dogs, The Brain, Birds of Prey, Trees, The Solar System, Cars, Frogs, Wild Weather, Bridges, The Periodic Table of Elements, and the list goes on. I'm sure you can find a title there that would be of interest to someone you know. 

In this terrific addition to the series readers learn in both entertaining and informative ways what living life as an elephant on a day-to-day basis is like. It is narrated by Duni, an eight-year-old elephant whose life within her matriarchal family is described in graphic novel form. She talks about her older brother who remains attached to the herd without being around much. That worries his sister. 

It may be surprising to readers how similar elephants are to humans, in various ways. They live in families, care about the welfare of others, support those in need of support and honor their elders. Readers will also learn about the differences between species, their trunks and tusks and how they are used, those animals that threaten them and their families, their rituals in finding a mate. 

Excellent illustrations, charts, maps, dialogue, humor and constant learning are what make this book a real treat for those kids who want to know more about these amazing mammals and their families. The book follows Duni for several years, always informing readers about survival, threats, and their most endearing characteristics. 

Illustrations by Falynn Koch add context, humor, and great detail to help with the learning. A glossary provides definitions of terms presented throughout the text. 

"Like our home range, 
an elephant family 
follows a cycle ... 

... while also changing, 
growing, and moving. 

Don't worry. 
We're all in this 
together."

Unicorn Boy, by Dave Roman with color by Heather Mann. First Second, Macmillan. Raincoast, 2024. $19.99 ages 8 and up

 

"My friend Avery has been taken by the 
shadows. And it's probably my fault. 

I need to find them. 
I'll give whatever you want.
Just please help us. 

Ugh. Friendship. More 
trouble than it's worth.
How do you know this friend
is worth risking your own neck over?"

Brian Reyes is just an ordinary kid ... until he sprouts a unicorn horn and is able to do things he has never done! As he tries to ignore the taunts of his classmates, he learns a little about his ability to fly through the air. It is of great use when his best friend Avery is pulled into a whirlpool in the back yard. The tables turn when this happens; Avery has always defended Brian. Now, it is Brian's turn to help Avery.  With help from Maggie Mandrake, a talking muffin, and a black cat he is encouraged to accept his abilities and do something. 

Following Avery, Brian shows the bravery and self-confidence that comes when your friend is more important than anything else. The underworld is populated by shadow creatures controlled by the Skull-King, and other oddball characters, including a gondolier and the Gran Reaper. Will bravery and friendship be all Unicorn Boy needs to prevail? 

This is the first in a new series from Dave Roman, whose previous books include the Astronaut Academy series. He is a great cartoonist and storyteller. The art is bold, immersive and is sure to appeal to many graphic novel fans. There are moments of uncertainty, fear, humor and engaging triumph as Unicorn Boy becomes more confident while doing all he can to help his best friend. This imagined journey is one many middle graders would love to take. 

Squire and Knight, written and illustrated by Scott Chantler. First Second, Roaring Brook Press, Macmillan. Raincoast, 2023. $19.99 ages 9 and up

 

"Do your worst, you stomach-churning 
monstrosity!

I'll have your guts for garters!

For ELDERGARD and VICTORY!

WAIT!"

Here is the story of a knight who assumes he is the stronger and smarter of the two intrepid travelers. Sir Kelton of Eldergard and his dutiful Squire make their stop in a village that has seen better days. They are told that a vicious dragon is the cause of the destruction seen there. Sir Kelton, the overbearing show-off, promises the villagers that he will save them all and sets off to do exactly that. Squire is left to his own devices and makes time to read about curses, the history of the village, and the true cause of the village's demise. Is the dragon the real culprit? 

In truth, the dragon has nothing to do with the bridge's collapse, the fire that destroys the village shop or the many other difficulties faced by the townsfolk. Squire is persistent in his research and his questioning, proving himself to be both intuitive and intelligent. When he discovers the dragon's lair and a caged Sir Kelton, it is his job to negotiate a deal for release that works for all involved. 

In his quest to save the knight, he identifies the cause of the rash of community catastrophes. It is quite the surprise; I won't spoil it for you. Despite the knight's bluster and eventual release, readers know the real truth about his boastful tales as compared to the heroism of a young boy known only as Squire. When all is said and done, the two leave the village behind in a search for further adventure.  

The colors of autumn, variety in perspectives, and changes from light to shadow are sure to appeal to the intended audience. The tale moves quickly with a humorous twist on the knight/page relationship. Adventurous and cleverly presented, readers will keenly anticipate a promised sequel.                                                                                      

Wildful, by Kengo Kurimoto. Groundwood, 2024. $22.99 ages 9 and up

"Are you OK? 

She was looking 
right back at me ... 
that tiny little bird ... 
she really saw me.

I hope we didn't scare 
her too much. 

She'll be OK."

It starts with walking her dog. It's clear she is not paying attention to where they are or where they are going. Eyes on the phone in her hand and headphones offering listening pleasure, she is unaware whenever the dog wants to stop or notices something of interest. On they go! 

As they come to a broken gate, the dog notices a fox at the entrance. The dog pulls away, and tears through the gate in hot pursuit. The girl follows, searches, fights her way through old tree branches, and finally, trips down a hill.  As she continues looking for Pepper, she takes note of her surroundings ... dilapidated, neglected.  From the top of a brick wall, a young boy points her in the direction Pepper has gone. It's a great start to a tale that makes perfect use of visual storytelling. 

Exploring the natural environment together, time passes quickly. Rob leaves. Poppy realizes she needs to get home. Once there she tries to tell her mom, who is languishing on the sofa in a house filled with work that must be done. Poppy and Pepper return the following day, and meet up with Rob again. His interest and knowledge about the old forest is inspiring. It leads to more meetings, more enjoyable observations. Poppy wants to share her enthusiasm for nature with her mother, who is grieving Poppy's grandmother's death.

The transition from dependence on the digital world to immersion in nature is subtly handled. Few words are needed as the beautifully realistic artwork provides details of both flora and fauna in the forest setting. Listening to birdsong and gazing in wonder at all that is happening around her provides a solace that she wants her mother to share. 

This is Kengo Kurimoto's debut novel. I will be on constant watch for his next. 

Outstanding!  

"What does the wild speak?" 

Other Boys, written and illustrated by Damian Alexander. First Second, Roaring Brook Press. Raincoast, 2021. $19.99 ages 10 and up

 

"I didn't want to talk about it. 

They couldn't help me.

They couldn't stop kids from picking on me. 

They couldn't make me more interested in 
stuff boys were supposed to like. 

And they definitely couldn't bring my 
mom back."

In this memoir, that is also a poignant graphic novel chronicling his year in seventh grade, Damian Alexander offers numerous looks back to earlier times in his life. After a lot of bullying at his former school, he decides he would prefer to be invisible at his new school. To that end, he chooses not to speak. In that way, he is not likely to make any impression or give anyone occasion to bully him. 

At home, he speaks to his grandmother and his older brother, and tells them little about his school life. At school, he speaks to no one even though a few pay interested attention to him. In the flashbacks, he remembers having friends (mostly girls) until the fourth grade when they decided they should not be spending time with boys. His male friends were those who shared his interest in video games. He knew he was different from them, as he had often been criticized for liking 'girl things'. He certainly didn't talk about his mother who had been murdered when he was very young. 

Choosing not to talk at school results in his being put in a special class as no one knows his academic abilities. He is also required to see a therapist who works there. His growing awareness of an interest in other boys makes talking even more difficult. Growing trust in his therapist finally allows him to share his feelings with her. Her reaction makes all the difference for a confused young man. 

"I think ... 
I LIKE-like boys. 
Like, crush like. 

Like how most 
boys LIKE girls. 

Oh?
Do you mean, like ... 
    you're gay? 

There was something about the
way that she said it. 

Not a bad thing.
Just a thing. 
A matter of fact." 

Having someone to talk to about all of it feels good. 

Powerful, honest and emotional, this debut novel will find fans in those who feel different, who question their own identity, and who are bullied. An author's note offers more heartbreaking details and explains how this graphic novel came to be. It also offers hope for those who might be dealing with some of the same trauma. 

"Eventually, I did speak and make friends. But it wasn't until I was well into high school. I learned later that I had C-PTSD, or complex post-traumatic stress disorder, not only because of the death of my mother, but because of the homophobic bullying I faced growing up." 

Gnome and Rat, written and illustrated by Lauren Stohler. Alfred A. Knopf, Penguin Random House. 2023. $14.99 ages 4 and up

"Every Gnome remembers the day 
they got their hat! 

We even have a 
holiday to celebrate just that! 

We wash our hat, 
un-flat our hat, 
and make it look brand-newwwww ... 

Oh, happy, happy Hat Day 
from every Gnome to you!"

My granddaughters have discovered the real appeal of graphic novels. Lucky they are that they have such variety to choose from when the are keen to find a new one. This is one that Chelsea (age 8) will surely enjoy when she visits in July. This first book in a new series will tickle her funny bone, and have her waiting anxiously for the next. 

Gnome and Rat live in a shared house in The Enormous Forest. Their rooms are on opposite sides of the house. Rat is quiet and genteel. He likes sipping something warm while he does his morning crossword. On this day, he is happy to celebrate Hat Day with his far more exuberant friend. Gnome is delighted to be reminded, and to celebrate the bright red pointy hat he wears on his bald head. 

In subsequent titled chapters, the two are involved in a series of adventures that all relate to hats. Enamored by two rabbits and their magic hat, Gnome decides to do his best to fit himself inside his own. Rat doesn't think it is possible. Undeterred, Gnome makes endless efforts to have it work. When he has success, Rat is off getting tea and misses the excitement. Rat points out that Gnome's hat has stretched and no longer fits his head. 

Without his hat in Chapter 3, Gnome decides he must grow his hair. When he is successful, he decides he no longer needs his hat. After a series of encounters with a duck, a bird and an abominable snowman, all who do not recognize Gnome, he decides that he does need that hat after all. In Chapter 4, after losing his hat while on a walk, a new hat is created for him. Neither Gnome nor Rat like it. A true friend, Rat accepts the hat as his won, much to Gnome's relief. Luckily, a crow returns the lost hat and all is well. Or, is it? 

Digital illustrations burst with engaging color and high spirits. Expressive and humorous, this novel for early readers is sure to please. 
                                                                               

Things in the Basement, written and illustrated by Ben Hatke. First Second, Roaring Brook Press. Raincoast. 2023. $19.99 ages 7 and up

 

"TRAPPED. TRAPPED.

Drip 
    drop
Drip 
    drop

Why are YOU crying? 
You're the one who led us here!
I thought you knew where you
were going!

SPLASH
       SPLASH! 

Now there's no way home!
And we'll never find the sock!" 

Although the task given Milo by his mother should take little to no time or create any difficulty, readers will discover quickly that any assumptions about the search to find his sister's special sock are wrong. Instead, Milo discovers the basement laundry room is inhabited by a sock-stealing, rat-like creature that ends up leading Milo on a chase filled with many discoveries, and even some fear. 

Milo's decision to track the creature has him uncovering a key that unlocks a basement beyond belief. The secret chambers that lie beneath his new house lead to a room with a suspended skull who journeys with him as he searches through the below-ground world of unusual and bizarre beings. Along the way he makes friends with some of them; they help him retrieve the sock - the reason for this adventure in the first place. 

The basement is immense; it is the scene of many rooms, hallways, and dungeons. Seeking help from the skeleton, a ghost, a huge eyeball and a nun leads to some terrifying meetings with sock rats and others. There is little dialogue as they work hard to find and bring Lucy's baby sock back to Milo's busy  mother. The palette of colors is dark, in keeping with the setting. Readers who love to read graphic novels will find this fast-paced search, its characters, and brave Milo himself compelling and entertaining. 

Enlighten Me, written by Minh Le and illustrated by Chan Chau. Little, Brown and Company. Hachette, 2023. $16.99 ages 9 and up

 

"It was HARD. 
My legs hurt; I couldn't concentrate. 
How do you even clear your mind? 
I can't lose myself in the moment, and I 
think Sister Peace knows I'm faking 
meditating ... I wish that I had my 
Game Boy, and ... "

Binh is not pleased at all when his parents make a plan for their Vietnamese family to spend a weekend at a silent meditation retreat. There are many things he would rather be doing. At the heart of his aversion to going is not having his Game Boy for the duration of the time there; more important than even that is the fact that being quiet and retrospective will give him too much time to focus on the bullying he is facing at school. 

When Sister Peace, a Buddhist monk, begins to speak to the young participants about Siddhartha and the Jataka tales from his life, Binh finds himself able to imagine a place where he can create a gaming world to deal with all of the emotions he is hiding from his family. As each tale is shared with the youth group, Binh becomes more clearly aware of his family and how he can help them. 

I have never read a graphic novel with a focus on Buddhism. I know there will be middle grade readers who would enjoy the story told here. Fans of graphic novels for that age group will find much to hold their attention, and elements of the storytelling that will reflect on their own lives. Video games interest many, and the world Bihn builds to help him deal with his internalized worries are likely to appeal, as are issues of not fitting in, being bullied, and trying to find a way to be more mindful of others. Moving from present to past, and using Sister Peace's stories to find some inner peace himself will certainly be appreciated. Humor and connection to community are welcome in this exploration of who Binh is and how he responds to the tenets of Buddhism in a new and thoughtful way. 

“The journey to becoming a Buddha is long, and not one that should be traveled alone.”

A bibliography is appended. 

Hansel and Gretel, written by Neil Gaiman and illustrated by Lorenzo Mattotti. Toon Books, Astra. Penguin Random House, 2014. $15.99 ages 7 and up

""Whatever is the world coming to?" she said sadly, 
and she showed the children to their little beds, the 
sheets so white and crisp, the pillows so soft. 

They slept as deeply and as soundly as if their food 
had been drugged. And it had."

Few writers tell a story the way Neil Gaiman does. I loved this book when I first read it, and am very excited to be sharing it here with you now. The writing is astonishing and memorable from start to finish. I cannot tell you how many times I stopped to reread what I had just read, or how many times I stopped to enter a passage in the journal I keep for copying phrases I never want to forget. Once read, I went right back to read it again! 

The storytelling is reflective of what happens when war leads to starvation. In times before this story is told, the woodcutter and his family were a happy group, living a simple life that gave them all they needed. War has changed that. As it gets closer and closer to where they are, there is a very real concern for what will happen to them. They will all starve. 

When Hansel hears his mother encouraging her husband to take the children to the forest and leave them there, he is stunned. She suggests that it is better for two of them to die, rather than all four. As happens in most tellings, the children are left in the forest where they meet an old woman who makes them do her bidding, while she plans to fatten Hansel to the point where he will provide the meat she needs. Once Gretel tricks the old woman into getting too close to the oven, she pushes her in and the children are free from her evil ways. They find her treasure and return home where they discover that their mother has died. Their father rejoices upon their return. 

Brushed ink illustrations by Lorenzo Mattotti are often alarming, filling every other two-page spread with black shadows and the children as obscure images in small spaces. This is very effective as an accompaniment to this brilliant retelling. 

Back matter includes information about the Grimm Brothers and various versions of Hansel and Gretel, as well as astute comments from both author and illustrator to help readers understand the choices they made for their book. 

Extraordinary! 

Picture Day, by Sarah Sax. Alfred A. Knopf, Penguin Random House. 2023. $18.99 ages 8 and up

 

"Is there anything you can do? 

Well ... 
with so much hair gone ... 
I think we have two options. 

We can cut it short 
and let it regrow
evenly ... 
Or ... 

I can refine Viv's DIY cut ... "

Seventh grade is tough enough! Then, they throw in yet another school picture day. Viv has always cringed at the thought of having her picture taken at school; her mother has managed to make it worse by deciding on her outfit for the day, and her hairstyle. Always a knit cardigan and a long braid that is just like every other picture day. This year, Viv is going to take a step toward changing that. Wanting to follow in the footsteps of her favorite online influencer, she takes scissors to her braid in the girls' washroom. She will be her own authentic self. 

It has immediate results. As happens in middle school, Viv becomes the center of attention and someone that other students want to emulate. Previously ignored by most, she is now sought out for advice and has a real impact on many. In spending so much time helping others, she completely ignores her friends Milo and Al. Loyalty to her friends is often overridden by her new confidence in social situations. She has problems with her mom, while also losing sight of who she is as a real person. To her credit, Viv is aware enough to learn from the lessons life is teaching and she is able to make amends with those who mean the most to her. 

The artwork is inviting, and offers a diverse cast of characters in expressive panels and full pages. Sure to appeal to those who like to read graphic novels, Ms. Sax offers impressive dialogue and thoughtful perspective on relationships between middle graders. This is a very strong debut novel in the new Brinkley Yearbooks series. 

Rover and Speck: Splash Down! Written and illustrated by Jonathan Roth. Kids Can Press, 2023. $18.99 ages 7 and up

 

"Fun Science Fact #5: Dental Differences

A narwhal only has two teeth, and one of 
them is a horn-like tusk. Lamprey eels can 
have 100 or more hooked teeth ringed in 
their tubular mouths. But a special deep 
sea dental award goes to bull sharks, who 
can have more than 350 teeth lined in 50 
separate ROWS! And you thought flossing
was a pain!"

Kids who met Rover and Speck in their first graphic novel will be very happy to see them again in Book #2! This time they agree to volunteer for a dangerous mission on a potentially hazardous planet. What are they thinking? Their destination is an unexplored planet dubbed K2-18b. 

The first problem for Speck is the small, dark tunnel they use to launch their rocket. The two splash down in water, and all seems to be happening as it should. A sudden glitch has Speck hanging upside down in the water, and being able to hear a very loud sound that he is sure is far away. Once upright and aboard Rover's life raft, the two seek safety on an island. Or is it an island? 

In reality, the island is a humongous blubber beast ... and it appears to be hungry! Chancing upon another island, they seek shelter in a cave where they meet two tiny spikey-spikes whose brother has been eaten by the Beast. 

"The Beast used to leave us in peace, 
but now it's angry and always baring 
its teeth. 

Chomping anything in its path."

Can the space rovers help? There is enough drama here to keep readers wondering what is to become of them, and plenty of silliness to really appeal to a child's funny bone. The artwork is filled with action and bright colors. Interspersed throughout, there are info boxes that provide interesting facts about water worlds, underwater sound waves and sea creatures, deep sea defenses, dental differences, stomach acid, blowholes, and symbiosis. 

The solution to the Beast's anger and threats proves that cooperation can solve many problems, once they have been uncovered. Bonus pages add further engagement with three activities and a bonus science fact. 

GLOBAL, written by Eoin Colfer and Andrew Donkin, with illustrations by Giovanni Rigano. Sourcebookskids, Raincoast. 2023. $19.99 ages 10 and up

 

"The bear runs. 

I just freeze.
Totally. 
I just ... watch. 

It's fast. 
And lumbering. 
It's fast and lumbering
at the same time. 

But there's nothing to do. 
Unless."

This book, created by the same team who brought readers a graphic novel about the many crises and complications facing undocumented immigrants (Illegal, Sourcebooks, 2018), have turned their attention to today's very real problems caused by global warming. Their focus is on two young people and each one's personal perspective, told in alternating chapters: Sami lives in a fishing village in the Bay of Bengal, and Yuki's home is in the Arctic Circle. Both have grave concerns about their homes and the threats to their environments. To say they are brave is understated. They are brave to the point of putting their lives in danger to make a difference where they live. Those who love them come close to losing them. 

Readers will not forget the dangers faced, or the severity of the issues that cause them to take things into their own hands. Sami (12) and his grandfather fish in the Indian Ocean, a habitat that is threatened with rising sea levels. They continue to live in this beautiful place, while catches grow smaller even though they work harder. Suki (14) is very concerned about how the melting ice is affecting her beloved polar bears, who need ice to hunt. With less ice cover, the bears are hungrier all the time and therefore, often more dangerous.  

The story is action-filled. Sami and his grandfather are attacked by pirates just before their village is destroyed by a mud slide. Yuki gets caught on ice floe after being attacked by a grolar (a hybrid mix of grizzly and polar bears). The authors keep the telling sparse, yet compelling. Mr. Rigano assures full attention throughout in vigorous and beautiful illustrations that speak to the awesome wonder of both settings and the destruction caused by warming waters. It is not surprising to learn that these young people want to preserve what they have and love. 

https://youtu.be/VfAH8uH7ac8

Backmatter does an excellent job summarizing global warming and its negative effects.