Rumor has it that dogs are human’s best friends, but that’s only rumor, and no one listens to what those yappy wooly creatures have to say anyway. And even it’s true, who cares about being popular and appealing to the common masses? I’d much rather be a feline with selective tastes and a standoffish personality than some dog that rolls over on its belly or begs attention from every passerby. Cats are so much more discerning, so much more selective with their affections and so much more interesting as these reviews written by members of the International Reading Association's Children’s Literature and Reading Special Interest Group attest. Take that, you annoying barkers. We prefer the soft murmur of a meow or a purr shared with our favorite purr-sons. 

GRADES K-2

Chall, Marsha Wilson. (2012). A secret keeps. Illus. by Heather M. Solomon. Minneapolis: Carolrhoda Books/Lerner Publishing Group. 

In this story in rhyme Grandpa has invited his grandson for a visit to his farm to discover a secret. The plot revolves around his finding the secret amid slowly-building suspense. The mixed paint and collage illustrations show the grandson exploring and searching around the farm for the secret. That night, dressed in pajamas and playing pirate, the young boy wanders out to the barn to discover a litter of young and playful kittens. He claims “finders keepers” (unpaginated), his grandfather’s intention planned all along. As the story ends, the boy and kitten nestle in bed together. This beautifully illustrated and gentle story reminds readers about the delights of sharing secrets with others.

- Karen Hildebrand, Ohio Library and Reading Consultant

Feldman, Thea. (2011). Harry Cat and Tucker Mouse: Starring Harry. Illus. by Olga and Aleksey Ivanov. New York: Square Fish/Macmillan. 

This simple book for beginning readers is based on the novel The Cricket in Times Square by George Selden and Garth Williams. Harry Cat and Tucker Mouse live in a cozy drainpipe in the Times Square subway station. Harry loves the theater and goes out each night to watch plays and musicals, leaving Tucker at home. One night in the middle of a play, Harry grabs a fish from a plate and runs across the stage, causing the crowd to laugh, clap, and cheer. Because of the audience reaction to the stunt, the director asks Harry to steal a fish every night. Unfortunately, this new role keeps Harry out late and sleeping in every morning, which jeopardizes his friendship with Tucker. When Tucker attends the play and sees Harry’s star quality, he realizes that he can’t stand in the way of Harry’s career. Perhaps he needs to let go of the friendship. A surprise ending discusses the true meaning of friendship. If children want more Harry Cat and Tucker Mouse books there are more in the series: Tucker’s Beetle Band (2011) and Harry to the Rescue! (2011). 

- Deanna Day, Washington State University Vancouver

Friend, Catherine. (2007). The perfect nest. Illus. by John Manders. Somerville, MA: Candlewick Press. 

Jack, a hungry, wily feline, comes up with a sure fire way to fill his tummy. He can almost taste a yummy omelet, and all he needs are eggs. In order to entice some feathery volunteers, he prepares a comfortable nest. His plans are successful, and a Spanish-speaking chicken, a French-speaking duck, and a goose all roost among the straw and cushy nest, and lay eggs of different sizes. But Jack can’t reach the eggs since the three simply won’t leave the nest. Playing to their greed, he tells them that there is a much better nest just down the road. Ready for his long-anticipated meal, he prepares to crack the eggs, but one by one, they hatch, leaving the bewildered Jack to serve as surrogate parent for the three. Although he tries to shirk his new parental responsibilities, the babies chase after him and bring him back to the nest, perfect for this strange family and its feline father, after all. The gouache illustrations and funny expressions on Jack's face and the determination of the newborns make this title great fun to share with young readers. Underneath his fur and appetite for an omelet, Jack turns out to have a nurturing nature. 

- Barbara A. Ward, Washington State University Pullman

Knudsen, Michelle.  (2006). The library lion. Illus. by Kevin Hawkes. Somerville, MA: Candlewick Press. 

Happening upon a library one day, a lion quickly makes himself at home and becomes an important part of the place. There are no rules prohibiting lions in the library, after all, and he learns to control his roar. Before he knows it, this lion has become an essential part of the library, taking on important jobs such as dusting the encyclopedias, serving as a backrest for the children during story hour, and using his enormous tongue to lick envelopes for overdue notices. When the head librarian, Miss Merriweather, falls while reaching for a book, he races through the library for help. Because Mr. McBee (not his biggest fan) is unable to understand what's happening, the lion roars at him, and then leaves the building since he has broken the "no roaring" rule. Nothing is the same, and the spirit of the library has disappeared along with its lion. The acrylic and pencil illustrations and this sentimental tribute to librarians and their patrons depicts the library as a book-filled place where all are welcome--even a lion. Sometimes even a well-trained lion must break rules for the right reasons. Bibliophiles and cat lovers will surely enjoy this one. 

- Barbara A. Ward, Washington State University Pullman

Krasnesky, Todd. (2010). That cat can’t stay. Illus. by David Parkins. Brooklyn, NY: Flashlight Press. 

In rhyming text, the story follows a savvy mother who somehow manages to persuade her cat-hating husband to tolerate first one, then two, then three, and finally, four cats. Although on the surface, he might seem heartless, she cannily appeals to his kind nature, and plucks at his heart strings about what fate might befall those cats if left to their own devices in the dangerous outside world. Young readers will laugh at the cartoon illustrations that show the personalities of the cats and the children in the family as well as the man who would prefer not to share his home with felines. As the number of cats somehow keeps increasing despite his resistance, it’s clear that he has lost control of his home. Has the house gone to the dogs, er, cats, despite his best efforts, after all? There’s only one choice left to this father if he’s going to survive the ever-increasingly number of cats. The author uses clever words and repetitive phrases to add to the enjoyment of this tale. 

- Barbara A. Ward, Washington State University Pullman

Lindbergh, Reeve. (2011). Homer the library cat. Illus. by Anne Wilsdorf. Somerville, MA: Candlewick Press. 

Like many older cats content with their quiet daily routine, Homer happens to find an open window and cautiously begins to explore the great world outside his home. But adventures sometimes mean lots of noise, and this cat simply wants to find a quiet place to settle for his adventure. Every time he thinks he’s found just the right spot, it proves to be too noisy for a nap. Eventually, Homer finds just the right quiet place—the library where the woman with whom he lives works. Homer has a great time, snoozing during story hour and enjoying the snacks and the attention of the library patrons. Fans of cats and libraries will enjoy this sweetly appealing story told in rhyming text as well as its playful illustrations created in collage and watercolor. Too bad all bookstores and libraries don’t have their own felines to watch over their book collections.

- Barbara A. Ward, Washington State University Pullman

Martin, Jr.  Bill, & Sampson, Michael. (2011). Kitty Cat, Kitty Cat, are you going to sleep? Illus. by Laura J. Bryant. Tarrytown, NY: Marshall Cavendish Children. 

In rhyming text, a mother cat tries to persuade her wide-awake Kitty Cat that it is time for bed. But the curious kitten makes all sorts of excuses to put off bedtime. After spying the sun, bathing, hearing a story and a lullaby, and even hiding beneath her mother’s chair, Kitty Cat finally succumbs to slumber, but even in her dreams, she’s on the go, stuffed animal in tow. The watercolor paint and colored pencil illustrations contain lovely colors and vividly depict the always-moving Kitty Cat as she finally starts to slow down, much to her patient mother’s relief. 

- Barbara A. Ward, Washington State University Pullman

Schoonmaker, Elizabeth. (2011). Square cat. New York: Aladdin/Simon & Schuster. 

Things haven’t been easy for Eula whose misery makes her no longer able to purr. While her other feline friends are round, she’s a square cat, which presents considerable problems; for instance, it’s not easy to get up once she has tipped over. Her generous friends, Patsy and Maude, try to make her feel better by adding round objects like a hat, earrings and rouge to her outfit, but still, she remains a square cat. When none of their ideas work, they climb into boxes and show her some of the advantages of her square nature. Content at last with her own view of the world, Eula finds her purr again. The watercolor illustrations add personality to the cats in this picture book and will make readers smile as Eula and her friends frolic across its pages. 

- Barbara A. Ward, Washington State University

Tillman, Nancy. (2011). Tumford: The terrible. New York: Feiwel and Friends/Macmillan.

From the creator of On the Night You Were Born comes a book about the importance of saying, “I am sorry.” With golden eyes and black and white fur, Tumford looks like a realistic cat in the beautiful illustrations. On the first pages readers immediately recognize Tumford for the trouble-maker he is. He pulls a tablecloth to reach pancakes, chases birds through the garden, and walks in paint. Tumford is a stubborn kitty and refuses to apologize for his misdeeds. To avoid apologizing, he hides in a sack, hides among some plants, and even hides on a shelf amid a dozen stuffed bears. His mother and father talk to him about the importance of owning up to mistakes, but sadly, the next time he causes trouble he forgets and hides once again. After reading aloud this book, children may want to talk about admitting when they’ve done wrong and offering a sincere apology.  

- Deanna Day, Washington State University Vancouver

GRADES 3-5

Franco, Betsy. (2009). A curious collection of cats: Concrete poems. Illus. by Michael Wertz. Berkeley, CA: Tricycle Press/Ten Speed Press. 

Thirty-two delightful poems written in haiku, free verse, and limerick pay tribute to the finicky nature of felines. The concrete poems in this collection and their accompanying illustrations mimic the essential characteristics of cats, purring in contentment, grooming themselves almost constantly, and often causing havoc in the house. From Kabob’s perfect balance, even when he falls, to Tabitha’s tail which seems to behave separately from Tabitha, the poems reveal the poet’s attention to detail from time spent observing felines. Readers will laugh at the poems and images of cats drinking from toilet bowls, settling down for a nap right on top of freshly laundered clothing, and even landing on a human’s head to avoid a pesky dog.

- Barbara A. Ward, Washington State University Pullman 

LeGall, Frank. (2012). Freedom! (Miss Annie, Book #1) Art by Flore Balthazar. Minneapolis: Learner Publishing Group/ Graphic Universe.

Translated from the French, this graphic novel brings to life the playful antics of a four-month-old kitty, Miss Annie, who is just starting to be slightly independent. As she prowls around the house, always getting into household mischief, she wonders what it would be like to play outside. During her adventures inside the house, Annie meets a timid little mouse that has recently moved into the house, and they begin an unusual friendship. Annie names her Keshia, the name she overheard her owners’ daughter call her best friend. As would many felines, Annie seizes the chance to explore the great outdoors when a window is left open.

- Karen Hildebrand, Ohio Library and Reading Consultant

Wardlaw, Lee.  (2011). Won Ton: A cat tale told in haiku. Illus. by Eugene Yelchin. New York: Henry Holt.

Recently awarded the Lee Bennett Hopkins 2012 Poetry Award (also a 2012 ALSC Notable title), Won Ton

is the story of a shelter cat and his new home. Told with real cat-itude from the feline’s point of view, the poems follow this sassy cat from its cage in the animal shelter along the journey home, all the way through the adjustment period. In an opening note, the author, a cat lover herself, explains that the poetry is written in the senryu form, which focuses on personality and behavior rather than the nature concepts typical of haiku. The illustrator’s graphite-and-gouache pictures lend the feel of Japanese woodblock prints to the book’s pages. This is a beautifully designed book to which cat lovers will have an affinity since they’ll likely relate to the bond that develops between a young boy and his cat. The author has created a teacher’s guide, a recipe for kitty litter cake and provides other useful ideas at her website at http://www.leewardlaw.com/won-ton-images/.

- Karen Hildebrand, Ohio Library and Reading Consultant

Everyone knows that dogs are man and woman's best friend. Dogs come in all sizes from the teeny-weeny puppy to the large canine. Dogs entertain us in many ways by chasing balls, wagging their tails and doing tricks for treats. Many children own pets, such as dogs, and will be able to make many connections to the dog books discussed in this column from the International Reading Association Children's Literature and Reading Special Interest Group. 

GRADES PRE-K TO 2

Katz, Jon. (2011). Meet the dogs of Bedlam farm. New York: Henry Holt and Company. 
From the bestselling author of A dog year, Katz writes his first picture book introducing his four dogs—Rose, Izzy, Frieda, and Lenore. Each dog is highlighted describing how they came to the farm, what their job is on the farm and how they get along with the other dogs. A question that is repeated throughout the text is, “What is Lenore’s job?” (unpaginated). This causes the reader to infer and make predictions. Beautiful full-page photographs portray each dog in the changing seasons. The last section of the book discusses Lenore, a black Labrador retriever, who rolls in the mud and eats disgusting things. Eventually the reader learns Lenore’s job on the farm. The last photograph shows all four dogs together in the cozy farmhouse after a long day of work. They are a happy dog family. 
- Deanna Day, Washington State University Vancouver

Raschka, Chris. (2011). A ball for daisy. New York: Random House.
Winner of the 2012 Caldecott medal, A ball for Daisy, does not have any words except for the title. The illustrations, rendered in ink, watercolor and gouache, tell the story of Daisy and her red ball. Daisy taps the ball in the air with her paws. She bounces it with the tip of her nose and chases it to a teal and green couch. After all of that playing, she snuggles up to the red sphere and snoozes. Later, Daisy’s owner takes her on a walk to the park where she joyfully runs, chases and catches the red ball in four separate illustrations. Then, a brown dog arrives, snatching the ball and accidently popping it. Daisy lies down on her flattened ball and howls. She sulks all the way back home. The next day, Daisy and owner return to the park and find that the brown dog has a present for her—a blue ball! The closing illustration shows Daisy next to the blue ball on the couch. 

- Deanna Day, Washington State University Vancouver

Rosen, Michael, J. (2011). The hound dog’s haiku: And other poems for dog lovers. Illus. by Mary Azarian. Somerville, MA: Candlewick Press.
Twenty different dog breeds are represented in haiku poetry in this delightful picture book. Breeds such as the Bluetick coonhound, the Weimaraner and the Siberian husky are showcased. For example, the poem for the English springer spaniel: “Wagging bobtailed dog / anything you touch joins in / joy is not phantom” (unpaginated). The accompanying woodcut illustration shows a liver and white spaniel flying through the air fetching a red Frisbee. In addition, notes about each dog are included in the back. Teachers could read aloud these canine poems and invite students to write haiku poems about their own pets. 
- Deanna Day, Washington State University Vancouver

Singer, Marilyn. (2011). What is your dog doing? Illus. by Kathleen Habbley. New York: Atheneum Books for Young Readers. 
The first page says, “Dog dreaming / Dog scheming” (unpaginated). Young children will notice a bright yellow kitchen with a small brown dog dreaming about eating a cupcake. Next, a black and white puppy is yanking a tablecloth with a tray of frosted cupcakes falling. The book continues with the familiar noun and adverb pattern: “Dog inspecting / Dog protecting” (unpaginated) and “Dog sharing / Dog daring” (unpaginated). Some pages have longer sentences that all rhyme. Readers will notice dogs in different activities such as paddling, dancing, shedding, sledding and herding. The colorful illustrations are bold and attractive. The small rectangle book shape is perfect for little hands and repeated rereadings.
- Deanna Day, Washington State University Vancouver

Nobisso, Josephine. (2011). Francis woke up early. Illus. by Maureen Hyde. New York: Gingerbread House. 
The young boy who will become known as Saint Francis of Assisi awakens one morning and relishes the peacefulness of a day in this beautiful picture book. He goes about his chores carefully, caring for the animals in the barnyard and collecting eggs and milk for breakfast. When he encounters a hungry she-wolf who has been looking for food on the town’s outskirts, he befriends her and shares his breakfast with her. She, in turn, does not harm him, somehow sensing his innate kind-heartedness and grateful for the meal. Having begun his morning with gentleness, Francis is ready to eat his own breakfast. The simple story reminds readers that all living creatures have basic needs, and the sumptuously painted illustrations pulse with life in every frame. 
- Barbara A. Ward, Washington State University Pullman

GRADES 3 TO 7 

Corriveau, Art. (2010). How I, Nicky Flynn, finally get a life (and a dog). New York: Amulet Books/Abrams. 
After the separation of his parents, eleven-year-old Nicky and his mother live in a tiny Boston apartment in a part of town that has seen better days. He faces school bullies in his new school and is confused about his father’s reluctance to spend time with him during weekends. One night, his mother arrives home from work with Reggie, a huge dog that once was a seeing-eye dog and ended up at the dog pound for reasons that aren’t clear. Already angry with his mother about the breakup of the family and their reduced circumstances, Nicky resents Reggie. Eventually, though, they bond during their walks. When Reggie stubbornly tries to pull him in certain directions, Nicky finally lets him, and the dog leads him to his former haunts where Nicky meets some new folks who are able to shed light on the dog’s past. Miserable about much of his life, Nicky and the dog run away, retracing the Freedom Trail, which Nicky remembers with fondness from earlier times with his father. Readers will enjoy Nicky’s growing bond with his pet and appreciate the honesty with which the story is told. Although his actions, words, and thoughts—especially concerning his father—often are in conflict, it becomes clear that Nicky can rely on Reggie and his mother even when his misjudgment puts his dog at risk and when he incorrectly blames his mother for circumstances beyond her control. While Nicky grows up a great deal throughout the story, what makes this title particularly poignant is his own inability to see his father as he actually is.
- Barbara A. Ward, Washington State University Pullman

Franco, Betsy. (2011). A dazzling display of dogs. Illus. by Michael Wertz. New York: Tricycle Press/Random House. 
From the same team that created A Curious Collection of Cats: Concrete Poems (2009), their poetic and artistic celebration of all things feline, comes this collection of 34 poems celebrating the delights of canines. Dog lovers will smile in recognition of dogs at their best and worst, sharing their living space with humans and generally make life much more pleasurable. The poems are shaped so that they resemble the experience they are describing; for instance, “Circling Poem 1 & 2” shows a dog endlessly searching and searching, circling for just the right spot in which to nap. “Emmett’s Ode to his Tennis Ball” places the poem inside a yellow circle clamped in the dog’s mouth and states firmly his affection for the “slobbery, sloppy, slimy sphere” (unpaginated). Young readers will chortle as they recall the noxious odor produced by a dog that farts in a car. They’ll also relate to the indecision of dogs who can’t make up their minds about being inside or outside as described in “Letting Gwen In and Out.” Drenched with detail and large fonts, the digitally colored illustrations are almost overwhelming with their intensity in an often-amusing, always affectionate tribute to dogs from two dog-lovers.
- Barbara A. Ward, Washington State University Pullman

Korman, Gordon. (2012). Showoff. New York: Scholastic Press. 
Griffin, the man with the plan, is back in the fourth installment of Korman’s  “Swindle” series. Griffin’s friend Savannah and her pet Doberman, Luthor, head the cast of characters as they romp into the dog show realm. Electra, three-time winning championship beagle is injured when Luthor unexpectedly crashes the dog show stage resulting in a tail injury for Electra. The owners are outraged and immediately cry lawsuit! Savannah is forced to send Luthor to an animal shelter, but Griffin intervenes with his latest plan. Since his parents are in Europe, Griffin and sidekick Ben bring the Doberman to Griffin’s home and decide to train Luthor for the next dog show championship, win the grand prize and put the money toward the lawsuit. The hilarious antics that ensue as they become dog trainers and outwit a mysterious person who is trying to sabotage the plan as well as the entire dog show makes for an adventure with lots of laughs. 
- Karen Hildebrand, Ohio Library and Reading Consultant

Laidlaw, Rob. (2012). No Shelter Here: Making the world a kinder place for dogs. Ontario: Pajama Press. 
The author, Rob Laidlaw, is a professional dog advocate and asks readers to become Dog Champions as he describes the living conditions of free range, homeless dogs around the world. Using photographs and side bar illustrations he discusses the treatment of dogs by pet owners, both good and bad. In addition to the horrendous conditions of puppy mills and working dogs, he explains about organizations that advocate for spaying and neutering and uses very direct language to describe some of the homeless conditions where street dogs are barely surviving today. He includes a list of animal welfare websites where readers can learn more about being proactive about humanitarian dog care.
- Karen Hildebrand, Ohio Library and Reading Consultant

MacLachlan, Patricia. (2012). Kindred Souls. New York: Katherine Tegen Books/HarperCollins
Ten-year-old Jake has discovered a kindred soul in his aging grandfather. As they walk the farm that has been in the family for generations, grandfather reminisces about growing up in the sod house, the remains of which are still visible. Childhood memories are shared and Jake loves the time spent with his grandfather. When a stray dog wanders onto the farm, life shifts and grandfather becomes ill and is hospitalized. Jake gets it in his head that if the family rebuilds the soddy for grandfather to come home to that all will be well. MacLachlan’s foreshadowing actually sets the tone for grandfather to return home to die, which he does in the newly rebuilt sod home of his childhood. Neighbors notice the dog has disappeared and folks say the dog is living with a woman who is sick in a nearby town. With sparce text and poetic prose, the cycle of life is warmly brought to the page for young readers who share that special relationship with a grandparent and yet face the inevitable passing of a kindred soul.
- Karen Hildebrand, Ohio Library and Reading Consultant

Margolis, Leslie. (2012). Vanishing Acts. New York: Bloomsbury. 
Maggie Brooklyn Sinclair, dog-walker and amateur sleuth, is back in another “Maggie Brooklyn Mystery.”  Several confusing things occur in seventh-grader Maggie’s life, especially the disconcerting egging of dogs at the dog run. Who would do such a thing? Meanwhile, a movie company has come to Park Slope to shoot the latest Seth Ryan, teen heartthrob, film.  Maggie and her friends are hoping to be cast as extras in the movie but Maggie is tossed off the set on the very first day. When Seth disappears and rumors of a kidnapping spread, Maggie’s detective skills kick into action. Throw in a little middle school romance with Maggie’s friend Lucy with Maggie’s very own twin brother and the questions really start flowing. Dogs, friends, mystery and mayhem make this a middle school read that girls who enjoy the Sammy Keyes mysteries, or Judy Moody and Allie Finkle will welcome.
- Karen Hildebrand, Ohio Library and Reading Consultant

Selfors, Suzanne. (2011). Smells like treasure. New York: Little, Brown. 
Many readers have come to dread the appearance of a dog in a book since its appearance practically insures that some ill fate lies ahead. Reassuringly, the author includes a note at the front of the book guaranteeing that there will be no dead dogs in this or any other titles she writes. In the continuation of the earlier Smells like Dog (2010), twelve-year-old farm boy Homer Pudding receives a mysterious note containing the letters L.O.S. T., making him certain that the time has come to join the society of Legends, Objects, Secrets, and Treasures. Relying on his basset hound Dog’s ability to smell treasure, Homer embarks on a quest to use the clues he’s been given to find the treasure before anyone else. His membership in the society depends on it, but along the way, he realizes that someone else is just as intent on finding the treasure as he and Dog are. As the two friends leave Milkydale for adventure amid hidden islands and mansions and dangers to both boy and beast, the story moves forward in a clever, engaging fashion, filled with amusing moments and plenty of mishaps. Like a dog begging for a treat, fans of this series will clamor for more books about this pair.
- Barbara A. Ward, Washington State University Pullman

Students often indicate that one of their favorite times of the school day is when their teacher reads aloud. This special time allows them to become part of a community of readers caught in the spell of good stories, information, and poetry. Reading aloud can also be as beneficial as it is fun. Reading aloud enables teachers to introduce students to a variety of genres. Students’ reading and listening vocabularies expand as they hear new words in meaningful contexts. The Common Core State Standards (CCSS) remind parents and teachers of two things about reading aloud to students. First, children’s listening comprehension is stronger than their reading comprehension until the middle grades so parents and teachers can read challenging books to develop children’s knowledge. Second, books read aloud to children in the upper grades can extend and enrich what students are able to read on their own. This week the Children’s Literature and Reading Special Interest Group focuses on some of our favorite new books for reading aloud. Happy reading!

GRADES K-3

Dempsey, Kristy. (2012). Surfer Chick. Illus. by Henry Cole. New York: Abrams Books for Young Readers.
Sometimes it’s hard to live up to the accomplishments of a parent. Although Chick is thrilled to be taken under the wings of her well-known surfer father, riding the waves is harder than she thought, and more than once, the plucky fowl ends up wiped out, struggling to stay on her pink board. Through her father's tender guidance and her own perseverance, she goes from a miserable heap of wet feathers on the beach to eventually surfing skillfully with a twist of her own. Clearly, this is a daughter much like her father, certainly deserving of the title Surfer Chick. This charming picture book written in rhyming text features clever word play with fun-to-say phrases such as "foul-tempered" (unpaginated) and "ruffled her feathers" (unpaginated). The surfer lingo such as "bummer" (unpaginated), "colossal wipeout" (unpaginated), and "gnarly new legend" heighten the book's appeal and make it a sure pick for a read aloud. The acrylic paint and colored pencil illustrations paint sentimental images of the joys of surfing and of the ocean’s allure. Not only does this title lovingly depict the relationship between a father and his daughter, but it also serves as a gentle reminder that not everything worth doing comes easily.
- Barbara A. Ward, Washington State University Pullman

Henry, Jed. (2012). I speak dinosaur! New York: Abrams.
During imaginary play children like to speak dinosaur. Dinosaurs don’t ask, “May I please play with you?” (unpaginated). Instead the little boy with a red dinosaur hat shouts to his friends in dinosaur, “Gribber, grabber, blobber, slobber!” (unpaginated). All of his friends immediately disappear. Dinosaurs never say thank you or I’m sorry either. And sometimes dinosaurs speak to their moms, “Roar!” When this happens though, dinosaurs need to leave the house. The little boy moves to his back yard swing set and is suddenly lonely. Large dinosaur shadows loom overhead and ask him, “Hi, may we please play with you?” (unpaginated). Little boy is shocked to hear, “May I?” and “Please.” His young friends have returned with their own dinosaur hats, but are using their manners. This is a perfect picture book to remind children about using manners. Teachers could also use this book at an imaginary play center with some dinosaur hats. Another extension would be to show how the author and illustrator, Jed Henry, used capital letters or large font type when the dinosaurs were shouting or yelling. Children could try this idea in their own writing or book making. 
- Deanna Day, Washington State University Vancouver

Jurmain, Suzanne. (2011). The Worst of Friends: Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, and the true story of an American Feud. Illus. by Larry Day. New York: Dutton.
From the author/illustrator pair that brought readers George Did It, this new book brings to light the friendship and disagreements of John Adams and Thomas Jefferson. At that time in American history the President and Vice President could represent different political parties, which was the case with Adams and Jefferson. Coming from very different political philosophies, “…as different as pickles and ice cream,” this governmental pair argued over most issues in the early years of our country. Adams became the second President of the United States serving after George Washington and Jefferson defeated Adams to become the third President. Because of their numerous arguments, the two men did not speak for over ten years after their terms ended. As the country continued to thrive under other presidents, Jefferson and Adams rekindled their friendship through letter writing as they felt the need to discuss the developing nation. Caricature illustrations provide a humorous look at the antics of these two great men as they waged their battles in shaping the United States. Personal anecdotes from the author about two of the nation’s forefathers give readers the chance to see their human qualities in addition to watching how a friendship can develop after troubled first encounters. 
- Karen Hildebrand Ohio Library and Reading Consultant

Pallotta, Jerry. (2012). A giraffe did one. Illus. by Tatjana Mai-Wyss. Ann Arbor, MI: Sleeping Bear Press. 
This fun read aloud begins with, “An ant did one, but no one could hear it” (unpaginated). A worm, a mouse, a squirrel and a skunk also did one, but readers aren’t  exactly sure what they have done. This is a perfect book to help teach the thinking strategy prediction. While reading a teacher could ask students, “what do you think the animals are doing?” On one page, “A turtle did one. It made a little bubble” (unpaginated), children could turn to a partner and share what they think the turtle did. On another page, “A monkey did one, and started laughing, but why?” The teacher could stop reading and write down on chart paper all of the students’ predictions. Later, readers will learn that a flower and a tree “can’t do one” which helps refine predictions. The funniest page is, “When the elephant does it, watch out! It sounds like an EARTHQUAKE! (unpaginated). The book closes with an illustration of a mom and a sheepish little boy surrounded by all of the different animals that were in the book at a tea party. The little boy did one too! 
- Deanna Day, Washington State University Vancouver

Rosen, Michael. (2010). Tiny little fly. Illus. by Kevin Waldron. Somerville, MA: Candlewick.
In this delightful read aloud title, a diminutive fly flits teasingly by three mighty beasts--an elephant, a hippo, and a tiger--without coming to any harm. One by one, each of the massive creatures decides to put an end to that fly’s peskiness. Despite their best efforts and amid all sorts of delightful language ["TRAMP! CRUSH! TRAMP!" (unpaginated), "ROLL! SQUASH! ROLL!" (unpaginated), and "SWOOP! SNATCH! SWOOP!" (unpaginated)]--and possible mayhem, the fly simply keeps on buzzing, slightly, but annoyingly, out of reach. Young readers will enjoy hearing this story multiple times, and readers won't mind reading it again because of how much fun it is to say the words and enjoy the pencil, gouache and digitally enhanced illustrations that fill its pages. The two-page spread that shows the elephant's eye peering at that fly is especially appealing since the size of the fly makes it unlikely that it could survive an encounter with a pachyderm. But then again, size doesn’t always matter, especially when you’re a savvy fly.
- Barbara A. Ward, Washington State University Pullman

Rosenstock, Barbara. (2012). The camping trip that changed America: Theodore Roosevelt, John Muir and our National Parks. Ill. by Mordicai Gerstein. New York: Dial.
During the month of February, we celebrate Presidents so this unique story adds to the collection of little-known stories about one of America’s Presidents, Theodore Roosevelt and how he came to create the national park system that we preserve and enjoy today. Roosevelt read a book written by naturalist and out-door lover John Muir where Muir was asking the government to preserve America’s beautiful forests and wilderness areas. On May 15, 1903, Teddy Roosevelt arrived in California, slipped away from the presidential entourage, and camped out for three days with Muir in Yosemite to discover the giant redwoods, Glacier Point, Mariposa Grove and other splendors of this wilderness area. When the President returned from his camping trip and outdoor adventure with Muir, the national park and monument system was created. Gerstein’s watercolor illustrations bring the beauty of America’s wilderness areas to young readers and make visible the rationale to save these wonderlands. 
- Karen Hildebrand, Ohio Library and Reading Consultant

Sierra, Judy. (2012). Suppose you meet a dinosaur: A first book of manners. Illus. by Tim Bowers. New York: Knopf.
Judy Sierra takes children on a rhyming romp where a well-mannered little girl meets an equally well-mannered dinosaur in the store. Both know all of the right words to say.  For instance, “Imagine that the dinosaur is standing by the bathroom door. / You have to pee! She is in your way. / Quick! What is the proper thing to say?” You say, “Excuse me” (upaginated).  Kids will not only delight in the fun rhymes and Tim Bowers’ delightful acrylic illustrations, but also the very notion of a large green dinosaur wearing stylish pink glasses with rhinestones shopping in the store. This book is an ideal choice for reading aloud when children need a gentle reminder that good manners need to be used. 
- Terrell A. Young, Brigham Young University

GRADES 3-4

McCarthy, Meghan. (2012). The incredible life of Balto. New York: Knopf.
Balto was an inexperienced sled dog when Gunnar Kaasen chose him in 1925 to lead one of the last legs of a race—a 600 mile race to get life-saving serum to Nome, Alaska to save the people from a Diptheria Outbreak. “Balto delivered the medicine to Nome in record time!” (unpaginated), becoming an instant hero Balto. A statue in his likeness and honor was erected in New York City’s Central Park. A dog food was named after him. He even starred as himself in a movie called Balto’s Race to Nome. Yet, fame does not last forever. Eventually Balto and his companions became part of a vaudeville act and finally a sideshow. Cleveland businessman, George Kimball, could not believe how the once-famous Balto was now featured in sideshow.  Kimball resolved to buy Balto and his companions, but the exorbitant price of $2,000 was more than he had. The people of Cleveland raised the money in two-weeks so the Balto and his teammates could be purchased and donated to the Cleveland Zoo.  This read aloud has great appeal for animal lovers and anyone with a sense of adventure.  
- Terrell A. Young, Brigham Young University

Sheinmel, Courtney. (2012). Stella Batts needs a new name. Illus. by Jennifer Bell. Ann Arbor, MI: Sleeping Bear Press.
Even someone’s name can be the source of unwanted teasing, and when a classmate starts calling Stella Batts an unflattering rhyming name, she decides to solve the problem by changing her name. Instead of Stella, the California third grader wants to be called after a candy since the family owns a confectionery store with yummy treats identified with their two daughters. Stella’s friends all love the idea, and they decide to adopt candy names for themselves as well. Lucy becomes Truffle, Talisa becomes Kit Kat, and Willa becomes Caramel. Stella is stuck with Scheherazade because she can't think of a good candy name, but her friends comfort her by reminding her that the long moniker can be shortened to Sherry. Naturally, mayhem ensues as the students' teacher continues to address her students by their given names, and even Stella gets everyone's name mixed up. Since she plans to be a writer when she grows up, she chronicles all the difficulties she's facing, many of which can be traced back to the problem with her name. The first in a planned series that is sure to be popular with fans of Clementine, the book contains useful messages about learning to get along with others that go down as smoothly as the delicious sweets the family sells. This read aloud will have listeners laughing at the antics of Stella and her classmates.
- Barbara A. Ward, Washington State University Pullman

Tavares, Matt. (2012). There goes Ted Williams: The greatest hitter who ever lived. Somerville, MA: Candlewick.
Ted Williams had the goal to be “the greatest hitter who ever lived,” and he worked on that goal every day of his young life. He practiced his swing longer and harder than his friends. He ate lots of food to gain weight. He did fingertip pushups. Then he practiced his swing again and again. “He is always swinging something—a bat, or a stick, or a pillow, or a rolled-up newspaper” (Unpaginated) He is offered his professional contract as a junior in high school at age 17! His batting heroics make him a star, but everything changes when he enlists in the Navy during World War II. Three years later, he is back on field and hits a home run on his first time at bat. His legendary career and legendary home runs continue until America is at war again and Williams is needed as a pilot in Korea. As he leaves for Korea, he wonders if his baseball career is over…. Students will enjoy the satisfying ending. The story of Ted Williams is the true story of a kid who had a dream and dedicated his life to making his dream come true.
- Terrell A. Young, Brigham Young University

GRADES 5-8

Bauer, Joan. (2011) Close to famous. New York: Viking. 
Winner of the recent Schneider Family Book Award, this title by Joan Bauer brings together a unique cast of characters that teachers will have fun portraying while reading it aloud. Fleeing Memphis in the middle of the night, Foster McFee and her mother are escaping the relationship of her mother’s abusive boyfriend, an Elvis impersonator. Since her father was killed in battle in Iraq, Foster and her mother have no real place to go but somehow end up in Culpepper, West Virginia in a rented Airstream trailer. Foster gets acquainted with the people in this tiny community through baking her delicious cupcakes and muffins. Although she always had difficulty reading, her love of baking and goal of being the first kid chef on the Food Network keep her driven and determined. As that culinary talent draws even more people to her, including a has-been movie star hiding out in Culpepper, her new friend Macon who dreams of being a filmmaker, Angry Wayne, owner of the local bar and grill (but who sells Foster’s cupcakes), and Perseverance Wilson all band together to help Foster.  Bauer tackles many issues within the storyline such as homelessness, race, domestic violence, learning disabilities and social justice. Visit Joan Bauer’s website http://www.joanbauer.com/close_to_famous.html for an interview about the book as well as cupcake recipes.
- Karen Hildebrand Ohio Library and Reading Consultant

Angleberger, Tom. (2011) Horton Halfpott, or, the fiendish mystery of Smugwick Manor, or, the loosening of M’Lady Luggertuck’s corset. New York: Amulet Books. 
Though author Tom Anglebarger (The Strange Case of Origami Yoda) says this tale was inspired by Charles Dickens, readers/listeners might be laughing too much to think of this as Dickensian. The story opens one morning at Smugwick Manor when M’Lady Luggertuck loosens her corset to allow her circulation to start flowing, and giving her the idea to host a ball for her single and lovelorn nephew. As the days of preparation begin, the family heirloom, the Luggertuck Lump is stolen and Horton, the lowly kitchen boy is accused of the theft. A bumbling detective is hired to solve the case and Horton, falsely accused, is arrested and sent to jail. While in jail, Horton overhears who it is that actually stole the lump (a diamond!), quickly escapes and is on the path to find the real thief. The hilarious bumblings of these zany characters trying to solve the mystery within the castle prove to be an entertaining farcical story. Teachers might like to start this read aloud by sharing the two-minute video the author created for the website companion to this book found at http://hortonhalfpott.wordpress.com/.
- Karen Hildebrand Ohio Library and Reading Consultant

As if anyone needs an excuse for it, February is the time for love. Children and adults create and purchase Valentines or love tokens for their loved ones. But no one needs to wait for a holiday to share their heartfelt sentiments or say, “I love you.” The following book reviews, written by members of the Children’s Literature and Reading Special Interest Group explore the infinite varieties of love to be found in recent publications.

GRADES K-3 

LaReau, Kara. (2012). Mr. Prickles: A quill-fated love story. Illus. by Scott Magoon. New York: Roaring Brook Press. 
Poor Mr. Prickles, a porcupine, has difficulty making friends. Although he tries to be friendly with the other animals in the forest, things just never work out.  Food gets stuck in his quills during playtime, and his spines are certainly unwelcome at a sleepover. Refusing to frolic with him anymore, the other animals end up telling him he isn’t cute, cuddly or playful. This saddens Mr. Prickles, and he becomes very lonely. But one day he meets Miss Pointypants and they begin to have fun together. They swim and splash in a dark lake. They dine on twigs and bark. They even watch the moon rise over the water. The forest animals make fun of the two porcupines and say hurtful things about the pair. Fortunately, Mr. Prickles realizes that what the other animals have to say doesn’t matter and that it is much nicer to be alone with someone who loves his quills—Miss Pointypants. This sweet love story may spark discussions on finding friends in unlikely places and getting along with others who might not look like us. 
- Deanna Day, Washington State University Vancouver

Harper, Charise Mericle. (2011). Henry’s heart: A boy, his heart, and a new best friend. New York: Henry Holt and Company.
This hybrid picture book includes two genres: realistic fiction and nonfiction. At the top of each page, in a circle, is a narrative story about a boy named Henry. Information and facts about Henry’s heart can be found in tiny illustrations and speech bubbles on each page. Children could enjoy this book in multiple ways—reading the narrative, exploring the facts/information about hearts or reading both the story and the nonfiction facts at the same time. Henry’s mother wants his heart to get some exercise. As soon as Henry begins running in the sunshine, his heart begins to beat faster. Small illustrations of Henry’s heart state, “I think I got up to 130 beats per minute on that hill” (unpaginated). Henry’s heart beats even faster when Henry meets a brown-haired girl in a polka-dotted red dress. One full page shows the different snacks that keep a heart healthy. Another page has a table with activities and exercises that help our hearts. A funny love story twist occurs in the conclusion.
- Deanna Day, Washington State University Vancouver

Knudsen, Michelle.  (2011). Argus. Candlewick Press. Illus. by Andréa Wesson.
When Sally’s teacher hands out eggs for the class science project, Sally notices that hers looks a little different than the other students’ eggs. Her desktop incubator hatches the egg, which turns out to be a small dragon. As Argus the dragon grows, he presents major problems for the classroom such as possibly eating the other hatchlings and creating chaos in the school. Feeling as though he doesn’t belong, Argus runs away. At first Sally is relieved to be rid of her “project” because he is unlike the other chicks. Eventually, though, she realizes that she loves her irrepressible dragon and misses him. The other children in the class help Sally look for Argus, and everyone rejoices when he is found. The author and the illustrator work together to make sure young readers recognize Argus’s true nature  as his identity as a dragon is never mentioned directly in the text. The theme of loving something that is a little—or in some cases, a lot—different will make this a great read aloud for story times.
- Karen Hildebrand, Ohio Library and Reading Consultant

Nivola, Claire. (2011). Orani: My father’s village. New York: Frances Foster/Farrar, Strauss and Giroux.
In text and watercolor illustrations, the author skillfully enables young readers to experience the same sights, sounds, smells, and feelings she encountered as a young girl visiting her father’s native village.  The words she uses to describe Orani, Sicily, bring the village to life and show her love for a place and time that exists only in her memories. This text is ideal for showing children how to expand a moment and to bring sensory impressions to their own writing about their experiences.  Nivola deftly illustrates how experiences—common or uncommon—can become sensory feasts through careful word choice and description. Readers can almost taste the cool water and dine on the sumptuous meals being laid out on dinner tables before wandering through the village’s winding streets. This loving tribute evokes a sense of place in memorable fashion.
- Terrell A. Young, Brigham Young University

Ogburn, Jacqueline K. (2011). Little treasures: endearments from around the world. Illus. by Chris Raschka. New York: Houghton Mifflin.
This American Library Association Notable Book for 2012 is filled with several ways to say “I love you” through phrases and endearments from 16 cultures around the globe. Each endearment is written in the native language with an English translation and a pronunciation guide. Alphabetic characters from different parts of the globe make the book even more appealing. Children will delight in hearing some of the endearing ways adults let children know how they are loved, including “ducky” (unpaginated) from England, “little coconut candy” (unpaginated) from Brazil, “possum” (unpaginated) from Australia, “hug bunny” (unpaginated) in Finland, or “little mischievous pea” (unpaginated) in China. Terms of affection used within families transcend cultures, bringing the world a little closer in this title with familial love as a universal theme. Caldecott-winning Raschka’s watercolor, gouache and ink illustrations portray the culture of each loving phrase with non-stereotypical color and design.
- Karen Hildebrand, Ohio Library and Reading Consultant

Urbigkit, Kat. (2011). The guardian team: On the job with Rena and Roo. Honesdale, PA: Boyds Mills Press.
Who knew that a pup and a wild donkey could become friends? In this delightful picture book, Rena, the runt of the litter, and Roo, a scruffy burro, slowly learn to trust one another and become an integral part of life on a sheep ranch in Wyoming. These unlikely guardians keep close watch over the lambs, protecting them from predators or unwanted intruders. The text describes how each animal is introduced separately to the lambs that will be their responsibility and then the dog and the burro are introduced to each other. Over time, they form an alliance, working together to keep the herd where it’s supposed to be. The large photographs trace the animals' growth over a year as well as documenting the bond that grows among canine and burro and their fluffy charges. An Author's Note provides additional information about guardian animals, and the references will provide more reading material on this topic. Once again, this reliable author presents interesting information in an engaging way sure to appeal to many young readers. Life on a ranch may be hard work, but clearly it’s a labor of love for Rena, Roo, and Urbigkit.
- Barbara A. Ward, Washington State University Pullman

GRADES 4-6

Weeks, Sarah. (2011). Pie. New York: Scholastic.
When Alice’s beloved Aunt Polly passes away and leaves her incredibly delicious pie recipes to her cat, Lardo, the mystery begins. Alice has inherited Lardo but cannot understand why her aunt would pass her famous recipes along to a cat that certainly can’t use them. The whole town mourns the loss of Polly and the closing of her pie shop since everyone loved her pies. In fact, each of them had a favorite type of pie. When Polly’s pie shop is vandalized, Alice realizes that someone is after her aunt’s famous pie recipe. As Alice and her family work to solve the mystery,  the whole community is drawn into the story. Set in 1955, the atmosphere of this book is from an era of close community ties. An epilogue from 1995 brings comforting closure to the story. An added treat is the collection of pie recipes that introduce each chapter of the book. This book is sure to make a pie-lover out of the most devoted cake or ice cream lover.
- Karen Hildebrand, Ohio Library and Reading Consultant

GRADES 7-8

Hilmo, Tess (2011) With a name like Love. New York: Margaret Ferguson Books/Farrar Straus Giroux.
Ollie and her traveling preacher father, Everlasting Love, and the family arrive in 1957 Binder, Arkansas, on the heels of a murder. The family usually stops in towns for a 3-day revival before moving on, but this time they stay a bit longer. Ollie happens to meet Jimmy Koppel, the son of the woman accused of killing Jimmy’s father, an abusive man.  As their friendship develops, Jimmy convinces Ollie that his mother has been wrongly accused. Not only do the Loves carry the right surname, but they also live up to their names, reaching out the hand of trust and looking for justice in the world.  With Ollie in the lead, they embrace Jimmy in his time of need. Debut author Hilmo has developed a cast of characters that will draw readers into this murder mystery as they empathize with the Loves’ attempts to open the hearts and minds of the townsfolk who don’t seem to want to know the truth about the murder.
- Karen Hildebrand, Ohio Library and Reading Consultant

GRADES 9-12

Chambers, Aidan. (2012). Dying to know you. New York: Amulet Books/Abrams.
Desperate to impress his new girlfriend Fiorella Seabourne, Karl Williamson, a plumber's assistant who struggles with reading and writing, seeks help from her favorite novelist. The relationship is in its early stages, and Fiorella longs to know his innermost thoughts about a wide variety of topics, including love. Karl, in turn, wants to impress her with his ability to express himself. Drawn to Karl's plight and identifying with his dyslexia, the narrator agrees to help. He encourages the romance between the two through his ability to express the taciturn Karl’s feelings through writing. Not surprisingly, the romance hits a rocky patch as Karl continues to mourn his father, who died when he was twelve. When he uses art to express his feelings, the local thugs ridicule his work and his friends fail to understand the meaning of his work. This is an exquisitely written reminder of the power of art, love and friendship to fill the emptiness that consumes someone after a loss. The author describes effectively the contrast between the young and the old while also hinting that the two often have more in common than expected. As the narrator comes to know Karl better, he also learns quite a bit about himself and his own ability to possibly love again.
- Barbara A. Ward, Washington State University Pullman

Coriell, Shelley. (2012). Welcome, caller, this is Chloe. New York: Amulet Books/Abrams. 
Junior year is not going well for Chloe Camden. When her social network deserts her, leaving her with no friends and nowhere to sit at lunch, she must find a place to fit. While Chloe navigates the high school halls in her fashionable shoes, she also is in the middle of a conflict between her mother and her grandmother whose Parkinson's makes it dangerous for her to live alone. Plus, her counselor refuses to accept her independent study project and steers her toward a project involving the school radio station. Although she becomes involved reluctantly, she makes her presence known immediately. Relying on her people skills and exuberant, larger-than-life personality, Chloe hosts a call-in show that quickly becomes popular with listeners. Working with the radio folks, Chloe realizes that she isn’t alone in needing to belong somewhere. She also finds romance with fix-up guy Duncan Moore who has home problems far more complicated than she could ever imagine. Despite all the rumors that are being spread about her, Chloe finds her way back to herself, realizing that listening is just as important as speaking up for what matters.
- Barbara A. Ward, Washington State University Pullman

Green, John. (2012). The fault in our stars. New York: Dutton Books.
Best-selling YA author John Green takes on the topic of two teenagers with cancer in his latest release. Hazel Lancaster and Gus Waters meet at a cancer support group. Their friendship blossoms into love, and they share each other’s lives as they deal with their cancer. Hazel is particularly drawn to a book, An Imperial Affliction, and invites Gus to read it. As they become equally enthralled with this novel about cancer, they decide to seek out the author who is living in Amsterdam. Brushes with death from their cancer have given the young couple insight into life that readers will admire. Seeing how Hazel and Gus celebrate each day that they have together and ask hard questions about what comes next will inspire teen readers, possibly helping them cherish the time that they have.
- Karen Hildebrand, Ohio Library and Reading Consultant

Griffin, Paul. (2011). Stay with me. New York: Dial Books.
Two troubled teens, both from dysfunctional families, meet at the pizza place where they are employed. Although they fall in love at first sight, they could not be more different from each other. Cece is a smart, straight-A student applying for admission to a gifted and talented program, and Mark is a high school drop-out, a shy but volatile teen with a record. Mark’s passion for rescuing pit bulls draws Cece’s attention and admiration, causing her to eventually overcome her fear of the dogs. Their love for each other grows until Mark makes a terrible mistake. Minor characters add to the story’s depth with believable dialogue and interactions. This poignant story of love and heartbreak will also appeal to dog lovers.
- Karen Hildebrand, Ohio Library and Reading Consultant

Michaelis, Antonia. (2012). The storyteller. New York: Amulet Books/Abrams. 
The very different worlds of German schoolmates Anna and Abel collide when Anna finds a doll belonging to his six-year-old sister Micha. After following him, Anna realizes that the school’s drug dealer is taking care of Micha by himself since their mother has disappeared. Their plight must remain secret until he turns eighteen so that social workers won’t take Micha away from Abel. The neighborhood in which Abel and Micha live and the grinding poverty they endure is foreign to Anna who has always lived in the lap of luxury, the only child of highly educated parents. Despite the cautionary words of her friends, Anna is drawn to Abel for his gift for storytelling. To entertain his sister, he crafts a fairy tale about a little orphan queen with a diamond heart who is pursued by hunters trying to steal that treasure. When Anna begins to notice parallels between the story and some of the disturbing events in the lives of Abel and Micha, she wonders if the boy she loves may also be a killer. In Anna’s eyes, Abel's love for his sister redeems him from the mistakes he makes. This is a magical, heartbreaking story for older teens that illustrates how unimaginably cruel the world can be, and how alluring fantasy can be for someone faced by grim reality. As Anna becomes caught up in Abel's world, she leaves her own far behind.
- Barbara A. Ward, Washington State University Pullman

Sonnenblick, J. (2012). Curveball: The year I lost my grip. New York, NY: Scholastic. 
Freshman Peter Friedman has a promising future as a baseball pitcher until an injury destroys that promise. Searching for a new identity, Peter uses the photographic equipment his grandfather, a former professional photographer, gives to him and becomes the school sports photographer. Meanwhile, love blossoms between Peter and his photography classmate Angelika. While Peter struggles with Angelika’s expectation that he tell his best friend the truth about his injuries, Peter also deals with another secret about his grandfather’s worsening Alzheimer's disease. Just as Peter wants to keep the truth about his unlikely future in baseball from his friend AJ, his grandfather wants to deal with the disease on his own terms and does not allow Peter to tell anybody in his family. This book teaches readers about the meaning of true friendships, which sometimes require difficult truths to be told. Readers will empathize with the book’s characters and the difficult choices that they face. The story encourages empathy for others while also caring about ourselves.  

- Tadayuki Suzuki, Western Kentucky University

by Judith Hayn

The Sons of Liberty
by Alexander Lagos and Joseph Lagos; Art by Steve Walker; Color by Oren Kramek
Random House, 2010, 176 pp., $12.99
Historical fiction/Graphic novel
ISBN: 978-0-375-85667-9

The Sons of Liberty: Death and Taxes
by Alexander Lagos and Joseph Lagos; Art by Steve Walker; Color by Oren Kramek
Random House, 2011, 176 pp., $12.99
Historical fiction/Graphic novel
ISBN: 978-0-375-85668-6

In book one, Graham and Brody, two young slaves, flee a bounty hunter and his brutal pack of dogs. In an experiment gone awry and conducted by Ben Franklin’s treacherous son William, they now possess electrically charged superpowers. Taken under the elder Franklin’s wing and with the protection of abolitionist Benjamin Lay, the boys gain revenge on their tormentors when they return to the plantation. By using their newly acquired powers, they avenge the cruelties done to them. 

In the second book, Graham and Brody are living as free teens in Philadelphia where they work in Franklin’s print shop while he is in England trying to arrange peace. The brothers decide to use their superhuman talents in the pursuit of good, which includes supporting the Sons of Liberty and sabotaging the Tory soldiers stationed nearby. 

This eventual graphic novel trilogy moves historical and fictional figures in and out of harrowing trials and complex circumstances. Snippets from primary sources flavor the dialogue and commentary. een fans of slick comic superheroes will appreciate the dazzling artwork and vibrant colors that add to a literate, although embellished, retelling of colonial American history. The texts will delight teachers seeking solutions to meet the challenges of literacy in the content areas from the Common Core State Standards.

Dr. Judith A. Hayn is an Associate Professor at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock.

This article is part of a series from the Special Interest Group Network on Adolescent Literature (SIGNAL).