Reading Level: Early Elementary

The Blizzard Challenge

Olly isn’t enjoying camp. His rucksack is trying to kill him, and building a shelter gives him splinters. Why should he bother building shelters or foraging for food with his teammates? He’d rather be at home playing video games. 

But that night, a mysterious compass transports him to a high mountain range, where he must learn to survive on a glacier. There, he meets survival expert Bear Grylls. The only way home is to trek across frozen lakes and through deep snow drifts—and Bear can see a blizzard coming. Will Olly learn that trying your best can make all the difference, or will the challenge be too much? 

When Olly is first transported to the Arctic, he doesn’t want help, but he has no choice. Bear says, “We divide the effort, and we work hard. Together we will be stronger, and that gives us the best chance at staying alive.” Initially, Olly reluctantly helps and doesn’t always listen to Bear’s advice. However, Olly becomes more confident in his abilities, and eventually his attitude changes. For example, while making a shelter, Olly thinks, “His feet were still cold, but he would soon change his socks. At first, his arms ached more and more as they dug, but then suddenly they felt fine. . . And for the first time in his life, Olly felt proud of what he was making. Really proud.” 

Many readers will relate to Olly, who would rather play video games than build shelters. However, Olly’s change from a selfish, lazy boy to someone willing to work hard and care about others is admirable. Since the change is gradual and Olly makes mistakes along the way, his transformation is realistic and encouraging. With Bear’s help, Olly learns the importance of teamwork and perseverance. He also discovers that doing things properly matters. The story’s conclusion suggests that Olly will utilize his newfound skills at camp and throughout his life. 

The Blizzard Challenge has large text and illustrations that will appeal to readers and help them visualize the story’s events. Because the book is written in the UK, some terms will be unfamiliar. For example, instead of wasting time, Olly is “gassing.” Measurements are also expressed in kilometers, and some glacier-related terms may be new to readers. However, context clues make it easy to understand unfamiliar words. 

The Bear Grylls Adventure Series books can be read as standalones and do not need to be read in order. Each book focuses on a different child at the outdoor activity camp. Once the camper receives the magical compass, they meet the adventurer, Bear, in an amazing place and learn new skills and facts they can take back to their real life. Each book aligns with Common Core Standards, making it suitable for educational purposes. The book is also printed “in a reader-friendly font and design” to help those with dyslexia. Three pages of additional information about glaciers are included at the end of the book. 

The Blizzard Challenge is an entertaining book with a relatable protagonist, useful life lessons, and a positive message about teamwork. With Bear’s help, Olly realizes that “a strong team, good preparation, and a bit of effort, and you can manage almost anything.” During the adventure, Bear discusses Ernest Shackleton’s expedition to the South Pole, which may spark readers’ interest in the explorer. Readers can learn more about Shackleton’s expedition by reading Race to the South Pole by Kate Messner, Ice Wreck by Lucille Recht Penner, and Survival Tails: Endurance in Antarctica by Katrina Charman. 

Sexual Content  

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Violence  

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Drugs and Alcohol  

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Language  

  • Olly overhears another camper call him a loser. 

Supernatural 

  • Olly is in his tent, looking at the compass, when a fifth direction suddenly appears. When Olly leaves the tent, he isn’t at camp. Instead, he is “standing on rocky ground covered with bright white snow, surrounded by giant mountains.” 
  • When Olly returns to camp, no one misses him because “everything with Bear had happened all in one night. Without the other two [tent mates] noticing.” 

Spiritual Content  

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Starring Steven Spielberg: The Making of a Young Filmmaker

Before Steven made films, he watched them. Naturally inventive with a vivid imagination, he was known for creating stories inspired by the world around him. But his passion wasn’t driven just by entertainment—as the only Jewish boy in his neighborhood, he was often bullied and felt the sting of antisemitism. Life also felt off-balance as his parents’ marriage wasn’t stable. Films, and the magic they contained, became a necessary escape. From his early childhood to his first days on a movie set, this biography captures the unique ways Steve’s memories influenced his career and helped him to become the celebrated filmmaker that he is today. 

Like all of us, as a child, Spielberg wanted to fit in with his peers. This was made difficult because of his parents’ unstable marriage, which caused the family to move frequently. “Wherever he lived, he felt like an outsider, like an alien from another planet.” He was also bullied because he was Jewish, but he didn’t let this get in the way of his dream. People were surprised “when he gave the role of squadron leader to a tough school kid who taunted him for being Jewish. The boy’s face was perfect for the part, and that’s what mattered most to Spielberg.” 

Steven Spielberg made some of the most influential films, including Raiders of the Lost Ark and E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial. Starring Steven Spielberg: The Making of a Young Filmmaker explains how Steven Spielberg’s childhood experiences were integrated into his movies. For example, Steven “loved playing pranks—especially on his three sisters. He told them stories about a twenty-foot-tall bogeyman who peered into windows.” Eventually, he put this story into his movie Poltergeist.   

Learning about Steven Spielberg will be inspiring for readers of all ages. As a child and teen, Steven made movies and studied the effect it had on the audience. “As neighbors watch the screen, Steven watches the neighbors. Why did they laugh? When did they scream? What made the characters interesting?” This allowed Steven to learn and grow as an artist. 

Despite Steven’s efforts, every film school he applied to rejected him. However, not even this could stop him from achieving his dreams. Steven’s ability to experiment with a camera, write scripts, and constantly learn showcases the importance of dedication and perseverance. Despite difficulties, Steven became “a producer, cofounded a movie company, worked with celebrated actors, won major awards, and influenced a new generation of filmmakers.” 

Although Starring Steven Spielberg: The Making of a Young Filmmaker is a picture book, the story is intended to be read aloud to a child, rather than the child reading it independently for the first time. The full-color illustrations are realistic and may scare younger children. For instance, when Steven was a child, he imagined “tree shadows on the bedroom wall became giant claws. He thought demons were calling him from the TV static.” The illustrations bring this scene to life, including the “claws” on the wall. The book’s length and vocabulary make it best suited for older readers. Some pages feature up to nine complex sentences that utilize advanced vocabulary, including terms such as vaudeville, spine-tingling, antisemitism, and brotherhood. Reading the book may spark readers’ curiosity about Steven’s films. However, they may not be mature enough to watch some of his movies, such as Schindler’s List, Poltergeist, and Saving Private Ryan. 

Starring Steven Spielberg: The Making of a Young Filmmaker is an entertaining and educational book that encourages readers to live life with passion. The book is a must-read for anyone interested in the movie industry. However, anyone who has watched one of Steven’s films will see how pieces of Steven’s life are incorporated into his films, and this gives both the real-life stories and the films more depth. Any adult seeking a book to inspire children to dream big should add Starring Steven Spielberg: The Making of a Young Filmmaker to their reading list. People interested in Steven’s life will find more motivational content in the book Hispanic Star: Selena Gomez. 

Sexual Content  

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Violence  

  • “Steven tackled antisemitism on a larger scale when he made Schindler’s List, about a Nazi who saved the lives of 1,200 Jewish people during the Holocaust.” 
  • While a child living in Arizona, “some neighbors were not neighborly toward Jewish families. The Spielberg family was singled out with antisemitic slurs and threats. It became so stressful that Steven began to deny his Jewish heritage.” 
  • While at school, “Bullies circled him like hungry sharks. School became more about survival and less about learning.” 

Drugs and Alcohol  

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Language  

  • Because the Spielberg family was Jewish, they were “singled out with antisemitic slurs and threats.”  
  • Kids teased Steven at school. “Kids made fun of his skinny frame and awkward features. They called him Spielberg, and it hurt.” 

Supernatural 

  • None 

Spiritual Content  

  • Even though Steven was Jewish, he “began to deny his Jewish heritage” because he wanted to fit in. 

Dodsworth in Tokyo

Dodsworth, a distinguished mouse, and his witty and rascally friend — a white duck known only as “the duck”—are visiting Tokyo. Join this charming duo as they tour the Land of the Rising Sun, learn about cultural customs, and explore the city landmarks of a fictional, early 20th-century Japan. Along the way, they encounter a bustling city filled with a menagerie of impeccably dressed animal characters. 

From the moment their plane glides over Mount Fuji, Dodsworth begins to worry that the duck will cause trouble. Ever the cautious one, Dodsworth tries to keep his curious friend in line. “We should be on our best behavior here,” he reminds the duck. On their first evening walking in the park, they come across a child playing with a wooden toy. Later, the duck finds the toy abandoned and makes it his mission to return it to the owner. 

At first, things seem uneventful as the pair shares a sushi dinner, visits a museum, and takes a bus tour. But after a rickshaw mishap, a koi pond misadventure, and an outrageous display at a local festival, Dodsworth finds his patience wearing thin. In a moment of exasperation, Dodsworth sighs, “This won’t end well.” Will they manage to keep the trip on track—or will a surprising twist remind them what makes their friendship so special? 

In this charming early reader, a lighthearted story unfolds, featuring themes of humor, friendship, and staying calm in the face of adversity.  Readers also learn more about the endearing duck, including the ironic fact that he can’t swim. Comically, the duck adores sushi and is uncharacteristically polite while enjoying it. Readers will chuckle at the duck’s love for Japanese desserts, his clumsy attempts at bowing, polite conversation, his surprisingly impressive kendama skills (a traditional toy with a handle and ball connected by a string), and his perfectly executed sumi-e painting technique. Dodsworth even uses the duck’s love of sweets—specifically wagashi—as a bargaining tool for good behavior. “If you’re good, wagashi. If you’re not, no wagashi,” he says. The strategy almost works . . . until it doesn’t! 

Dodsworth in Tokyo is ideal for readers with a strong interest in Japanese customs and culture. While the inclusion of Japanese words and advanced vocabulary may present a challenge for younger readers, Egan’s cheerful watercolor and ink illustrations featured on every page offer helpful context clues to support comprehension. Character expressions in the illustrations also enhance emotional understanding. For example, when Dodsworth wades waist-deep into a pond to retrieve the duck, who had ignored the tour guide and fallen in, his furrowed brow says it all: “Dodsworth was soaked, and he was not happy.“ A helpful feature of the story is that most Japanese terms are explained within the text. Some visuals help decode unfamiliar terms, such as arigato and Asakusa. Although Dodsworth is a series, the books can be read independently, as each one follows a unique storyline. The story is well-suited for fluent readers who are ready to follow multiple plotlines.  

Young readers and their parents will relate to Dodsworth’s constant apprehension and the duck’s well-meaning mischief, which seems to follow them throughout their journey in a city defined by “customs and manners and order.” The traditional wooden toy kendama serves as a recurring motif in the story, reappearing in the final scene as a symbol of restitution, helping the duck win the hearts of both Dodsworth and the locals. No matter what chaos unfolds, readers can’t help but root for this lovable character! 

Sexual Content  

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Violence  

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Drugs and Alcohol  

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Language  

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Supernatural 

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Spiritual Content  

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Faraway Things

In Faraway Things, beachcombing—the search for treasures along the shore—serves as the gateway to a story rich with wonder, adventure, loss, and discovery. The protagonist, a boy named Lucian, stumbles upon a cutlass, a type of sword with a curved blade, famously linked to sailors and pirate tales. He eagerly claims it as his own. It is the most magnificent faraway thing he has ever found! “That’s what his father had called whatever washed up from across the sea: faraway things.” 

Before long, a ship captain appears on the beach, looking for none other than his lost cutlass. Lucian must choose between returning the sword to its rightful owner and accepting a gift in exchange. In a surprising twist, his act of letting go of the cutlass opens the door to an unexpected, joyful discovery. 

Faraway Things is a picture book, and Dave Eggers’s delicate writing style invites the reader into a story where fragments of Lucian’s past are gradually unveiled throughout the narrative. This encourages critical thinking and delivers a new depth of understanding. There is a sense of wonder in the simple plot of a boy finding a lost sailor’s sword and immediately feeling attached and protective of it. “The next day, Lucian spent his time in the tide pools, on the bluff and in the coves, always with his cutlass in his hand or fastened to his side.” 

But this faraway thing has more to reveal—most importantly, the identity of its rightful owner. “It was silver and gold and copper and was finely etched all around. It was the kind of sword he’d seen in books…” The moment the ship captain appears on the beach, the mystery begins to unravel, and the story takes an adventurous turn. 

Dave Eggers’s writing style relies on subtext, where parts of the story are implied rather than stated outright. This technique invites readers to make discoveries on their own. For example, there is an implied loss. Lucian often thinks about his father even in his sleep: “…and when he dreamed, he dreamed of his father.” There is also an implied reason the ship ran aground. Upon meeting Lucian on the beach, the captain asks, “What happened to the lighthouse?” The implication is that the lighthouse, set against this windswept shore, is no longer functioning. 

Like drawing a circle and returning to the starting point, the story’s narrative connects two seemingly unrelated facts into a purposeful revelation. Lucian’s adventure includes a visit to the ship and a delightful tour of the ship’s stateroom. In exchange for returning the cutlass to its rightful owner, Lucian accepts a gift of his choosing that proves deeply symbolic. Though it is hard for him to part with his spectacular faraway thing, the lantern he receives in exchange reveals broader significance. Readers come to understand that Lucian’s late father was a lighthouse keeper, and the extinguished light symbolized his loss. Relighting the lamp renews that legacy, allowing Lucian to honor his father and embrace a brighter path forward. Share another heartwarming story with a young reader by checking out Swashby and the Sea by Beth Ferry and City Dog, Country Frog by Mo Willems. 

Sexual Content  

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Violence  

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Drugs and Alcohol  

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Language   

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Supernatural  

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Spiritual Content  

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by Maureen Lowe 

Lucy Lancaster and the Stormy Day

Inquisitive second-grader Lucy Lancaster is bursting with excitement. Today is the day that she and her two best friends, Heidi and Bruce, are visiting the Discovery Museum. All three of them received mysterious invitations to the museum, and all three were elated to participate in its hands-on science activities. But just when Lucy is planning to leave to pick up her friends, Heidi calls Lucy’s house with awful news. She has the sniffles, and she cannot join Lucy on her museum trip. 

Overcome with sadness, Lucy lets out a magical hiccup. Suddenly, it begins to rain outside. Lucy isn’t surprised. Her magical witch hiccups have been occurring for some time. She hiccups again, and the rainstorm turns into a thunderstorm. Lucy decides to go to the museum despite the bad weather, but when she arrives at Bruce’s house, he tells her that he cannot leave his frightened dog, Frankie, who is afraid of thunder. Lucy must go to the Discovery Museum alone. 

The museum has many wonders, but Lucy cannot help but be in a bad mood. She misses her friends. Nothing feels as fun without them. The museum has a three-person bicycle that can power an ice cream maker, but Lucy is unable to power it alone. Her parents try to cheer her up, telling her that she has the power to brighten her own day. Then Lucy remembers—she’s a witch! In secret, she asks her spellbook for a spell that can bring Heidi and Bruce to the museum, but the book only gives her an incantation to improve the weather. Lucy is disheartened once again. 

Lucy makes her way through the museum’s laser maze, determined to get a good score despite her loneliness. There, she meets a boy named Jackson, and the two quickly become friends after participating in more museum activities together. Jackson tells Lucy that he cannot help her with the ice cream bicycle because he only eats ice cream on sunny days. Luckily for him, Lucy has her secret spellbook! She casts the weather-changing spell, and the two successfully make strawberry ice cream. 

After the museum trip, Lucy visits Bruce and Heidi. Frankie the dog is feeling much better. Realizing that Heidi had a worse day, Lucy gifts Heidi the butterfly keychain from the museum. Lucy’s stormy day ended up being fun after all. 

This third-person story follows a day in the life of young witch Lucy Lancaster as she navigates a series of disappointments. The narration is written in the voice of an eight-year-old, using simple words and descriptions. Lucy’s thought processes are consistent with someone her age, and her worries will be relatable to young readers. She struggles with disappointment, loneliness, and frustration, and her magical mishaps parallel her feelings. In the end, Lucy makes her day better through determination and unwavering kindness, and she manages to make new friends while missing her old ones. Lucy learns that she has the power to turn even the stormiest days into sunny ones. Since this lesson was first imparted by Lucy’s parents, Lucy Lancaster and the Stormy Day teaches that a combination of parental guidance and self-reliance leads to good problem-solving. 

Lucy Lancaster and the Stormy Day is a fun book suitable for independent readers. Large black-and-white illustrations appear on almost every page. The illustrations are charming and highly expressive, effectively highlighting the key details of every scene and visually conveying the emotions of various characters. The instructions and incantation for Lucy’s “Sunny-Day Spell” are included in their entirety as they would appear in Lucy’s spellbook. Each chapter begins with a full-page illustration that seamlessly transitions readers into the next section, picking up where the previous chapter left off. The Lucy Lancaster Series can be read in any order because each book focuses on a new adventure. 

Stormy Day mixes interesting real-life science with fantastical magic. Young readers interested in STEM studies will enjoy Lucy’s enthusiasm toward the museum and the various exhibits she sees. 

Sexual Content  

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Violence  

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Drugs and Alcohol  

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Language    

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Supernatural 

  • After learning that Heidi is too sick to visit the museum, Lucy starts to hiccup. Lucy’s magic hiccups cause it to start raining outside. “The sky darkened outside the kitchen window. Raindrops began pelting against the window, and a strong wind whooshed through the branches.” 
  • Lucy reflects on the other magical things that her hiccups have caused in the past, “like magically tidying up her room. Or totally turning her room upside down.” 
  • Running into the coat closet, Lucy’s toes begin tingling, and she lets out another hiccup. This time, she sees “sparks of magic” in the air that cause the rain to turn into a thunderstorm. She also notices that her magic hiccup caused her raincoat and rain boots to appear on her body. 
  • In the museum, as soon as Lucy remembers that she has a magic spellbook, it appears in her hands. 
  • Lucy wants her spell book to give her a spell that will bring Heidi and Bruce to the museum. Lucy opens to a random page in the book, and she sees that “The Sunny-Day Spell” has magically appeared, an incantation that would stop the rainstorm. Angry with the book, Lucy hiccups again, and her Book of Spells suddenly flies out of her hands in a gust of wind. The wind also blows Lucy into the museum’s laser maze. 
  • When Lucy’s new museum friend Jackson tells her that he cannot eat ice cream on a rainy day, Lucy once again summons the spellbook (in secret). She chants The Sunny-Day Spell. More sparks of magic emerge and fly away in the wind, and the thunderstorm turns into a perfectly sunny day. “The clouds parted, and the sun started shining. It was incredible!” 

Spiritual Content  

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by Gabrielle Barke 

What Do You See When You Look at a Tree?

Have you ever climbed a tree trunk, your hands gripping the bark, or curled up beneath its leafy shade on a sunny afternoon? Can you imagine who else might have gazed at its branches long ago—or how many birthdays it has celebrated standing in that very spot? This sweet picture book invites children on a journey of discovery, uncovering their unique connection to the natural world and fostering a lifelong love for trees. 

What Do You See When You Look at a Tree invites readers to engage with the world around them, with trees taking center stage as the main characters. Through thoughtful questions and gentle commentary, the author encourages reflection and critical thinking, guiding readers toward a deeper appreciation of the environment and their place within it. 

A walk in nature is a perfect way to slow down and be mindful, and author Emma Carlisle invites young readers on a stroll through familiar places: around home, down a main street, into parks, and across the countryside of an English village. “Pause and notice the trees all around you. Look closer and you’ll see so much more. Trees are all different, special, unique . . . just like the trees long before.” Each page offers reminders that trees are living organisms, enduring through time, each with its own character—much like the reader. The story remains grounded in the present moment, encouraging awareness of thoughts, feelings, and surroundings.  

For parents, this story’s portrayal of the incredible lifespan of trees may spark quiet reflections on their place in time. To young readers, the reality of a tree’s age is both surprising and enchanting. Some trees can live for hundreds, even thousands of years! The shapes of their branches, the texture of their bark, and the way they live in harmony with sun, wind, and rain draw readers closer, helping them feel connected to these towering giants. Then comes the magic—hidden clues show that trees are busy homes, sheltering life above, within, and below the ground. “Let’s take a peek under the roots. Can you see babies curled up with their mothers?” 

With every page turn, the illustrations whisper little secrets about the weather—sunbeams dancing through leaves, a playful gust of wind, raindrops pattering softly to the ground. Seasons drift by in color and texture, from the golden crunch of autumn leaves to the quiet sparkle of a snowy winter’s day. Even the time of day is hinted at, with one especially magical scene showing a tree through a cozy window, where a child and caregiver glow in the soft, golden light. “Have you read till the moon and stars filled the sky, as you sat in a cosy old nook?” Pause for a moment, and the smallest details begin to shine, reminding us how the ordinary can feel extraordinary. 

What Do You See When You Look at a Tree features charming watercolor and hand-finished illustrations. Young readers will enjoy a journey through village streets and open countryside. With just one to four sentences per page, including engaging questions, the text is easy to follow and accessible for early readers. 

The book concludes with two double-page spreads of supplementary material, followed by a final page titled “A Note from Emma Carlisle.” A standout moment comes in the supplemental section, How to Be More Like a Tree, which offers original and insightful ideas such as, “Be authentic . . . Trees can teach us to be proud of our uniqueness and stand tall. Celebrate what makes you you.” The book gives adults an opportunity to spark meaningful conversations with children about mindfulness, empathy, and environmental awareness.  

Sexual Content  

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Violence  

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Drugs and Alcohol  

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Language  

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Supernatural 

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Spiritual Content  

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by Maureen Lowe

The Soccer Surprise

The culmination of the soccer season is upon Franklin Elementary School, and the MVP club, which comprises five best friends, is helping the girls’ soccer team prepare for their big game against the Wilton Warriors. However, Kat, one of the members of the MVP Club, is struggling to nail down her soccer shots, and she fears that she’ll cost the team a chance at victory. To make matters worse, the town is threatening to demolish the field house, a community center for the sports fields, to build new offices. Can the MVP club save both the field house and win the big game? 

The Soccer Surprise is an exciting story packed with energy, mystery, and teamwork. Told from a third-person perspective, the tale centers on five members of the MVP Club—Max, Alice, Nico, Luke, and Kat—and their involvement in their school’s sports and community activities. While the book attempts to provide each member of the club with appropriate attention, most of the character development revolves around Kat, who struggles to handle the big moments in her soccer games. However, the five characters display exemplary character and fortitude in the face of struggle, and their ability to work as a team to solve problems is admirable. Add in the childhood joy of elementary school students, and the tale takes on a very jovial and relatable tone. 

The book gives a positive perspective on the lessons of hard work and self-belief. Early in the book, Kat continually misses game-winning shots and sees herself as a bad soccer player. However, with the help of soccer superstar Alex and her shooting tips, Kat manages to improve her skills and change her self-perception, allowing her to score the winning goal at the end of the book. These lessons are exemplified when Kat exclaims that she couldn’t have done it without Alex, and Alex responds by saying, “I only showed you the shot. You’re the one who did it. Keep working on your skills like that and maybe you’ll be able to play on the Breakers when you get older!” This story reminds readers of the power of self-image, demonstrating that even the most challenging tasks can be made easy with practice and the right mindset. 

Alongside these lessons, The Soccer Surprise’s fieldhouse plotline also teaches the power of advocacy and voice. When the MVP kids learn that their beloved fieldhouse is slated for demolition to make way for new offices, they decide to launch a fundraiser to transform it into a new community activity center. Through their determination and combined voices, they convince the building’s owner to keep the site, demonstrating the importance of fighting for what matters in life. It’s a lesson that can encourage readers to take a stand for what they believe is right. 

The Soccer Surprise is divided into ten small chapters, with each chapter typically comprising eight to ten pages and containing a couple of hand-drawn illustrations. Although the story doesn’t present difficult vocabulary, its paragraphs and sentences are longer and more complex, making it a little challenging for newer readers. At the end of the story, a brief section offers real-life facts about soccer and showcases some cool soccer skills. It also includes a sneak peek of the next MVP book to keep readers interested. Like its predecessor, The Soccer Surprise continues the MVP’s adventures in sports with action-packed scenes and important lessons, making it a fabulous addition for early chapter book lovers. 

Sexual Content 

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Violence 

  • The fieldhouse mysteriously catches on fire while the MVP Club is practicing soccer, and forces Max, one of the MVP Club members, to call 911. “Everyone turned to look. Bright and yellow flames were shooting out of the right side of the field house!” 

Drugs and Alcohol 

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Language 

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Supernatural 

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Spiritual Content 

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by Caleb Kleinmann

Build It! Jump It!

Build It! Jump It! is a fast-paced and exciting story about a young girl named Ace who loves building. Ace utilizes her mechanical skills, bravery, and creativity to design and build her skateboard and a ramp. Ace plans to complete some impressive jumps, but then she goes too fast and falls. Ace will have to try again, but will she ever be able to rocket up the ramp? 

The focus of the story remains entirely on Ace, allowing her personality to shine. Ace is an admirable character, particularly for children interested in building, inventing, or tackling challenges. Her confidence and problem-solving mindset make her an inspiring character who shows that taking risks and working hard can be fun and rewarding. 

Readers will admire Ace’s ability to imagine, design, and build something with her own hands before gathering the courage to test it herself. Throughout her attempts, Ace occasionally falls down, but each time, she gets right back up, showing persistence and resilience. These moments are critical to the story’s message that failure is not the end but rather part of learning. Her journey will inspire readers to approach challenges with confidence, knowing that mistakes can be a valuable learning experience. 

The simple plot is engaging with manageable stakes, yet the story is energetic and empowering. A few background characters are featured at the skatepark cheering for Ace. These characters add realism to Ace’s environment without introducing new characters for readers to remember. The book teaches perseverance, problem-solving, and confidence in a straightforward, action-driven way. The inclusion of building steps and mechanical terms subtly introduces young readers to engineering concepts in a simple and accessible way. 

The Racing Ace Series employs short sentences with bold fonts and varied text placement to maintain a quick pace throughout the story. This approach makes the language accessible and easy to follow, perfect for young readers who are just beginning to build their reading stamina. 

The text features repetition of words and phrases to build rhythm and emphasize Ace’s determination. Phrases like “Go, go, go!” and “Turn, turn, turn!” add a sense of urgency and encouragement to her journey, creating momentum that propels readers forward. 

The full-color illustrations are bright and dynamic, reflecting Ace’s energetic personality. Each page is designed to keep readers engaged, matching the thrilling speed and resilience of Ace’s journey. The illustrations add clarity to the process, giving readers both visual and narrative understanding of how her project comes together. 

Build It! Jump It! is perfect for young readers interested in building, skateboarding, or stories about characters taking on big challenges. The overall message is that creativity, courage, and hard work can help you achieve your goals. Build It! Jump It! shows readers that with determination and resilience, they can overcome obstacles and achieve their dreams. 

Sexual Content  

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Violence  

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Drugs and Alcohol  

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Language  

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Supernatural 

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Spiritual Content  

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by Rayna Burlison 

Amazing Arctic Animals

Why does an Arctic hare have tiny ears? To conserve heat! How does a walrus feel around for food on the bottom of the sea? With its whiskers! Learn cool facts about the arctic fox, the beluga whale, the snowy owl, and more in this book. 

Amazing Arctic Animals takes readers to the coldest place on earth—the North Pole—where they will learn about the animals that make the Arctic home and the adaptations that allow them to survive during the harsh winters. For example, “Fur, fat and feathers are just a few of the Arctic animals’ adaptations. Each animal has its own special way of living in the coldest place on earth.” When each new animal is introduced, a chart gives basic facts such as the baby’s name, size at birth, favorite foods, and enemies. 

As a Level 3 Reader, Amazing Arctic Animals is a perfect nonfiction book for the transitional reader who can read multisyllable and compound words, can read prefixes and suffixes, can identify story elements, and understands different points of view. Level 3 Readers are a step towards fluency.  

Young readers who want to learn more about Arctic animals will find all of the facts amazing. They will learn how each animal spends its time, what it eats, and its enemies. The illustrations on each page allow readers to get a close look at the animals—some are furry and cute, and some are graceful swimmers. Like the animals visiting the Arctic each summer, readers will find the harsh land beautiful and the animals amazing. Readers eager to learn more about animals should read What If You Had an Animal Tail!? by Sandra Markle. 

Sexual Content  

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Violence  

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Drugs and Alcohol  

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Language  

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Supernatural 

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Spiritual Content  

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Lily’s Dream: A Fairy Friendship

Lily is a fairy who dreams of flying high. However, Lily is the only fairy who cannot get her wings to lift her. As she practices, much of her time is spent taking in the beauty of nature from the ground. 

One day, after a particularly difficult flying lesson, Lily stumbles on an acorn and finds a small alcove in a tree filled with fairy-sized treasures. As Lily explores the new environment, Willow, a young human girl, approaches her, causing Lily to run away in fear. When she realizes she has left her golden bracelet there, Lily returns. Willow returns Lily’s bracelet and offers to help her learn to fly. But can a human—completely grounded—help a fairy connect with her wings? 

Told from the third-person point of view, Lily’s Dream follows a young fairy’s journey to achieve flight. Unlike other fairies with beautiful, shimmering wings, Lily has small, colorless ones. Lily yearns to be like the rest of the fairies and asks her mother, “Will my wings ever look like yours?” Lily’s mother tells her that each fairy’s wings are unique, and though Lily’s wings are not yet colorful, it does not mean that she is not special. This interaction will teach readers that a person’s beauty comes from within and that their individuality is what makes them truly extraordinary. 

Willow, a human girl, plays a key role in helping Lily achieve her dreams. Though she cannot directly relate to Lily’s struggle, Willow uses her artistic side to create an acorn helmet, a landing cushion, and a mini trampoline for Lily. Willow makes sure to create a safe space for Lily and encourages her. With Willow’s daily support, the fairy and the girl become friends. 

Each page contains one to six sentences with full-page illustrations that match the text and convey Lily’s emotions. For example, “while all the other fairies soared to dazzling heights, Lily was the only one who knew about the beauty closer to the ground.” The illustration shows her smiling on a lily pad, watching the fish below. Lily is small in comparison to the nature around her. For example, one picture shows tall, pink, and white flowers towering over her. These detailed, dream-like images will enchant readers and draw them into Lily’s magical world. Additionally, the vivid colors and detailed facial expressions will help readers identify Lily’s frustrations with flying and her joy in connecting with nature. 

Lily’s Dream explores themes of resilience and friendship through Lily’s persistent pursuit of flight. Despite her struggles, Lily never gives up on her dream and continues working toward her goal. She demonstrates tenacity by taking flying lessons and practicing independently every day. Young readers will relate to Lily’s determination and feel encouraged to face challenges with similar strength.  

Though Lily shows inherent determination as an individual, she only succeeds after receiving Willow’s unwavering support. The human girl not only creates a safe environment for Lily but also cheers Lily on, uplifting her fairy friend as if they share the challenge together. Their unlikely friendship demonstrates how kindness can help someone reach new heights. Readers will learn the importance of supporting their friends — even when they cannot directly relate to the struggles those friends are facing. Though Lily and Willow come from different worlds, their blossoming bond proves that anyone can find common ground and offer meaningful support. Through these lessons, Lily’s Dream becomes a heartfelt celebration of self-belief and the transformative power of friendship. 

Sexual Content  

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Violence  

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Drugs and Alcohol  

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Supernatural  

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by Madeline Hettrick 

Blizzard Rescue

In this third adventure, the Jacksons are called to Minnesota, where a blizzard is sweeping through the area. Snow-filled skies, icy roads, chilly temperatures. . . There are people and animals in danger! Will the Disaster Squad be able to brave the cold and lend a helping hand? 

Leela and Jaden travel to Minnesota to help a farmer care for his calves. While there, the farmer teaches the kids about caring for cows and keeping them safe and healthy. Then, Jaden and his father help the farmer arrange hay bales to create a windbreak for the outside animals. Afterwards, the Jacksons help a snowshoe rabbit stuck under a large patch of ice. This allows the kids to use a retractable shovel, a new tool added to their disaster kit. Similar to the other Disaster Squad books, Blizzard Rescue shows the importance of being careful around animals while safely helping them. 

Blizzard Rescue introduces readers to the dangers of blizzards in a kid-friendly way that allows readers to see how to stay safe. In addition, the Jackson family creates emergency kits to take to a senior center. The combination of helping animals and helping people survive a blizzard will entertain young readers while teaching them ways to stay safe. The Disaster Squad Series focuses on the Jackson family—a biracial family with two professional parents. This series is part of Scholastic‘s early chapter book line, Branches, aimed at newly independent readers. The easy-to-read text and illustrations on every page will appeal to readers ready for chapter books.  

In this series installment, the Jackson kids help a farmer and then visit their grandmother, who also needs help. Readers will enjoy learning about a ranch and cheer when the Jacksons’ dog, Lucky, helps. Blizzard Rescue still focuses on helping during a natural disaster, but it also includes scenes that show family life, which gives the story a more personal feel. The Disaster Squad Series helps readers understand natural disasters and how to help animals safely. In addition, it features a family with positive communication skills that readers can emulate. Readers can learn more about a snow rescue by reading The Bravest Dog Ever: The True Story of Balto by Natalie Standiford. 

Sexual Content  

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Drugs and Alcohol  

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Supernatural 

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Spiritual Content  

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Saving Animals After Earthquakes

On January 12, 2010, a massive earthquake rocked the island-nation of Haiti, destroying almost 300,000 homes and taking the lives of more than 200,000 people. Overshadowed by the terrible humanitarian crisis that followed was the fact that tens of thousands of helpless animals were left to fend for themselves among the rubble, many of them injured and without food. Would anyone rescue these animals after disaster struck? In Saving Animals After Earthquakes, kids will read the inspiring stories of organizations such as Best Friends Animal Society, which deployed a rapid response team to Haiti to rescue and treat injured animals in the debris-clogged streets. Readers will also meet animals such as Bells and Dieter, two pet dogs that were pulled out alive from the rubble in Haiti—less than five years after they were rescued in New Orleans after the devastation of Hurricane Katrina.  

Saving Animals After Earthquakes takes readers into the heart of disaster zones, showcasing the extraordinary people who risk everything to save animals in crisis. Through powerful photographs, the book reveals the devastating aftermath of natural disasters: buildings reduced to rubble with pets and people trapped inside, and flooded New Orleans streets following Hurricane Katrina’s destruction. 

The book features a diverse range of animals affected by disasters, from common pets like dogs and cats to farm animals, including donkeys and pigs, as well as endangered species such as the giant panda. While some images are difficult to witness, the stories of dedicated volunteers who leap into action to help these animals offer genuine inspiration and hope. 

The book’s accessible format draws readers in immediately. Each page features a large, eye-catching photograph accompanied by a text box containing a bold title and a concise paragraph. Every image includes both a descriptive caption and a purple circle highlighting fascinating facts. For instance, readers learn that “There are only about 1,600 giant pandas living in the wild. They live high in the mountains in central China. No one knows for sure how many wild pandas the earthquake affected.” 

The book concludes with a list of animals at risk from earthquakes, as well as famous earthquakes and rescues. There is also a helpful one-page glossary. Important terms appear in bold throughout the text, making vocabulary easy to identify and understand. 

Saving Animals After Earthquakes will captivate any animal-loving reader, but its true strength lies in the inspiring stories of rescue workers’ heroic efforts. The book successfully educates readers about the aftermath of an earthquake while building vocabulary with terms like dislodge, epicenter, and habitats. Most importantly, it presents complex information in manageable portions that inform without overwhelming.  

The book highlights two remarkable tools in disaster response. Specially trained rescue dogs use their exceptional senses of smell and hearing to locate both human survivors and lost pets trapped beneath debris. Meanwhile, social media platforms like Facebook have revolutionized pet reunification efforts. After the devastating 2011 Alabama tornadoes, an animal rescue center posted photographs of rescued animals on Facebook, successfully reuniting over 100 families with their beloved pets. 

Any reader seeking to understand natural disasters and their impact on both animals and the people who protect them should read Saving Animals After Earthquakes. Readers who want to learn more about natural disasters should read the fiction book series Disaster Squad by Rekha S. Rajan. 

Sexual Content  

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Violence  

  • The book includes pictures of the rubble after an earthquake in Haiti. “More than 200,000 lost their lives during the earthquake in Haiti.”
  • After an earthquake hit China, many pandas “were shaking with fear.” Many had injuries, but “a nine-year-old panda named Mao Mao was crushed to death by falling debris inside her pen. Another adult panda died from his injuries shortly after he was rescued from the quake.” 
  • The earthquake in China also hurt other animals. A rescue worker, Chen, “found many survivors, including one dog dragging his crushed back legs through the dust and debris.” The dog was given care at a shelter. 
  • One woman was trapped “under a collapsed building. For more than eight days, the dogs remained with her. . . When rescuers finally reached the woman, the dogs barked loudly so that the rescuers could find her and pull her to safety.”  

Drugs and Alcohol  

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Supernatural 

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Spiritual Content  

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The Fox and the Forest Fire

Young Oswald isn’t sure he likes his new home. Moving from the big city to a log cabin in the woods, he doesn’t enjoy the dark, quiet nights and change in scenery. But Oswald soon discovers the joy of living in the woods, and he quickly becomes fond of studying the plants and meeting new creatures, such as a small orange fox. However, Oswald’s new life crumbles when a ravaging wildfire threatens to take away his new home and his new fox friend. Will Oswald be able to recover from this deadly disaster? 

The Fox and the Forest Fire is a heartwarming tale about a young boy’s relationship with change and resilience. Narrated by the protagonist, Oswald, the picture book follows Oswald’s transition from a home in the bustling city to a log cabin in the quiet woods. Oswald is depicted as a typical child who spends his time playing in nature. His recurring interactions with a young fox are a main growing point for him as he learns to be more receptive to the forest setting and its creatures. This shift from hating the woods to loving them is genuinely and realistically portrayed, and Oswald’s ability to adopt an open mind to change is admirable and inspirational. Oswald’s experience with a wildfire may be deeply relatable for many readers who have had similar life experiences. 

The core of The Fox and the Forest Fire comes from its rich message about accepting and enduring the ebb and flow of one’s life. Both Oswald and the fox experience situations that uproot their present-day lives. However, Oswald and the fox persevere through these hardships and enter a new period of life that is new and exciting. For example, Oswald’s family will rebuild their house, and the fox will reclaim its home as the forest’s vegetation regrows. These characters teach readers the importance of approaching change with flexibility and resilience, demonstrating that hardships can make us stronger and better individuals.  

The tale features colorful, full-page illustrations that complement the story’s plot and characters. Many of the illustrations depict forest environments with various animals and vegetation in a simplistic art style, and most pages contain one or two sentences of simple text. At the end of the book, an author’s note and a section about wildfires provide supplementary material that aids the story and encourages additional research. Although the story doesn’t depict the wildfire tearing through the forest, it does show part of the aftermath, such as burnt trees and the remains of Oswald’s house, which may warrant further conversation with an adult about fires and their real-life consequences. While these post-fire scenes give a somber, saddening tone with their dark skies and rain, the book quickly reminds the readers of the importance of moving forward by depicting Oswald rebuilding his home. Thus, The Fox and the Forest Fire becomes an uplifting children’s story with a message about accepting, enduring, and learning from life’s good and bad moments. 

Sexual Content 

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Violence 

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Drugs and Alcohol 

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Supernatural 

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Spiritual Content 

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Recipe for Disaster

Remy is anything but ordinary. He walks upright, reads, and boasts an exceptional sense of smell and a refined palate. Living in the attic of an old cottage, his colony is content to eat garbage and has no understanding of his sophistication. Tasked with sniffing out poison, Remy grows frustrated and longs to pursue finer things. When he discovers a French cookbook in the cottage kitchen, he pores over its pages and begins to experiment with cooking. Its author, Auguste Gusteau, becomes his guiding inspiration as he hones his craft. After the colony is abruptly discovered and forced to flee, Remy’s life takes a momentous turn. 

After nearly drowning and being separated from his family, Remy reaches Paris and, by sheer luck, finds himself at Gusteau’s, the famed restaurant founded by the cookbook author he idolizes. He discovers, to his sorrow, that Gusteau has died. Yet, in an extraordinary turn, the late chef returns as a spirit guide, a vision of memory and imagination who nudges Remy forward with advice and encouragement. Determined to cook in this fine restaurant, he forges a secret alliance with a kitchen employee. His disguise holds—until it doesn’t. Can he pursue his dreams in the human world? Will he reunite with his family and follow the passion for cooking that defines him? 

Recipe for Disaster is a chapter book told in first-person narration, spinning a delightfully improbable tale: a rat with rare skills and passions makes his way to Paris to follow in his mentor’s footsteps. Themes include bias, friendship, and resilience. The title is telling because a sense of looming disaster builds toward a surprising finale. Readers will eagerly anticipate what happens next and be rewarded with a heartwarming ending. 

In Chapter Two, Gusteau returns as a spirit guide, reminding Remy of the lesson from the opening chapter and his cookbook title, Anyone Can Cook! Remy takes this philosophy to heart. Soon, the contrast between the late, celebrated French chef—whose Parisian restaurant made him famous—and a rat with culinary ambitions exposes the tensions that arise when a rat enters the human world. Beyond the near-universal disdain humans have for rats, the very idea of a rat cooking seems preposterous. This reality torments Remy. He knows all too well the bias humans hold against rodents. He laments, “no human was ever going to see past the fact that I am a rat.” 

Unlikely as it sounds, Remy bonds with the kitchen helper, Linguini—the first human to treat him kindly. After Linguini botches a soup, Remy rescues it and turns it into a masterpiece. “Pretty sure I just made restaurant history as the first rat chef,” Remy jokes. From there, they create the impression that Linguini has extraordinary talent, prompting the executive chef to bring in a senior cook to train him. Hidden under Linguini’s hat, Remy steers him skillfully: “We discovered I could get Linguini to move in different ways by tugging his hair—one pull to chop, another to crack an egg.” In marionette-like fashion, they create delicious food that brings the restaurant acclaim. Soon, France’s top food critic takes notice and the story races toward a tipping point. 

As with any good reveal, readers will relish how far Remy has come since his days in the cottage attic. He’s shown courage by refusing to give up on his dream. With the help of a human ally, he devises a way to cook in a fine Parisian restaurant. Even the critic’s review is full of praise. A parallel storyline reveals Linguini’s true identity: the corrupt executive chef has been hiding documents that prove he is Gusteau’s son. “The will said he was the rightful owner of Gusteau’s!” But the revelation strains their friendship. As fame goes to his head, Linguini becomes arrogant and begins to sideline Remy, nearly forgetting the friend who got him there. 

Ratatouille: Recipe for Disaster features a handful of whimsical line illustrations by Caroline LaVelle Egan. At 80 pages, it’s a satisfying, lighthearted read full of colorful characters and steady momentum. It also raises surprising philosophical questions about the personal truths we hold and the pursuits we follow when faced with adversity. Remy may be a rat, yet he embodies the courage of those who chase their dreams: “Like Gusteau had said, I had to be fearless if I wanted to be great!” 

Sexual Content  

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Drugs and Alcohol  

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Language   

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Supernatural  

  • The late Gusteau appears in several instances as Remy’s spirit guide, offering advice and encouragement like a trusted friend.  

Spiritual Content  

  • None 

by Maureen Lowe

Dirk Bones and the Mystery of the Haunted House

Meet Dirk Bones, a reporter from the town of Ghostly. Dirk covers all the pressing stories for the local newspaper and sometimes solves mysteries along the way. When Dirk’s boss tells him that a house occupied by ghosts on Ghoul Street is being haunted by another ghost, Dirk jumps into action to unveil the truth. 

As Dirk searches the home, he hears unusual noises. “Click, Click, Clickity! I looked around. No one was there.” He searches everywhere — the cellar, a nearby graveyard, and an old tomb — and collects stories from the people he passes along the way. With the help of the people in town and Dirk’s investigative skills, will he be able to find out who is haunting the ghost’s house? 

Dirk Bones is both brave and practical. He’s always looking for facts before drawing conclusions. Readers will admire his calm presence, especially as it contrasts with the townsfolk’s fear of the haunted house. Dirk’s admirable heroism will make young audiences feel connected to him as they follow him on his courageous journey. His presence serves as a reminder that even the scariest of mysteries can be solved with bravery and an open mind.  

Cushman builds suspense not only through Dirk’s journey but also through the use of sound. Each neighbor describes the sounds that have led them to believe the house is haunted. While one neighbor heard “Clack, cluckity-cluck bing, blub, blub,” another heard “click, cluck-clackity cling, flub, flub.” These onomatopoeic phrases are repeated eleven times and will encourage children to take the time to sound them out. The repetition of these sounds not only adds humor but also supports an interactive reading experience. Additionally, with multiple sight words on every page, Dirk Bones and the Mystery of the Haunted House is a great choice for beginner readers.  

Along with the creative sounds, each page features a sketch of Dirk — a skeleton reporter in a trench coat — as he explores the town and interacts with its neighbors. Readers will be able to see the eerie environment that Dirk experiences, from the disheveled haunted house to a graveyard with leafless trees. The illustrations will help readers envision the world and allow them to feel as though they are searching through the mysterious town with Dirk.  

Overall, Dirk Bones and the Mystery of the Haunted House blends an easy-to-follow plot with engaging writing, playful sound effects, and atmospheric illustrations. Cushman’s story is a perfect fall read and will entertain any early reader who is interested in the mystery genre. Beginning readers who enjoy ghostly fun should also read Poultrygeist and Fitz and Cleo Get Creative. 

Sexual Content  

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Violence  

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Drugs and Alcohol  

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Language    

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Supernatural  

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Spiritual Content  

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by Madeline Hettrick

Can We Keep a Bigfoot?

When the Creepy Critter Keepers find a baby Bigfoot inside their clubhouse, they want to keep her as a pet. But then the Boggy Brothers come to town on a hunt to find Bigfoot themselves. The kids know they need to get their new buddy back to her mother soon. Can they take their furry friend home in time? Or will the Boggy Brothers catch up with them first? 

Anyone who has ever dreamed of meeting a mythological creature will love reading Can We Keep a Bigfoot? Right from the start, the kids know they must keep the Boggy Brothers, two comical villains, from finding Baby Bigfoot. The Creepy Critter Keepers disguise Baby Bigfoot, and readers will giggle at the illustration of Baby Bigfoot dressed up in one of the kids’ mothers’ clothes and makeup. However, as the kids search for Mama Bigfoot, they must protect the baby from both the Boggy Brothers and a teenager who dreams of being on TV. The author employs both humor and suspense to craft an engaging story that portrays Bigfoot as a loving, caring animal who looks out for one another. 

Can We Keep a Bigfoot? will entertain independent readers who are ready for longer texts and more complex storylines. To aid in comprehension, black and white illustrations appear every two to four pages. Many of the pictures show the characters, who are a diverse group. The books in the Creepy Critters Keepers Series can be read in any order because each book focuses on a different “creepy” critter. The book begins with a “Fact File” on Baby Bigfoot, which includes basic information such as abilities, weaknesses, likes, and dislikes.   

The four friends in Can We Keep a Bigfoot? are each unique and have different interests, but they all believe that protecting the Bigfoot is more important than money or fame. While much of the book is silly, it also shows that “there’s so much mystery in the world.” Instead of being fearful of Bigfoot, the kids show curiosity and compassion toward him. However, in the conclusion, Mama Bigfoot uses magic to give each kid a magical gift. The magic is a little off-putting because it is the only magic in the book. Additionally, it detracts from the kids’ kindness because it implies that a gift should only be given to someone who has helped. 

Can We Keep a Bigfoot? is an imaginative book that gives readers a picture of what Bigfoot might be like. With relatable characters, a comedic villain, and an adorable baby Bigfoot, the story is sure to delight readers. Readers who enjoy humor and monsters should also read The Adventures of the Bailey School Kids Series and the Notebook of Doom Series.  

Sexual Content  

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Violence  

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Drugs and Alcohol  

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Language  

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Supernatural 

  • After the kids help Mama Bigfoot reunite with her baby, Mama Bigfoot gives each kid a gift. To do this, Mama uses magic. Mama Bigfoot takes Mia’s hairbrush. Mama Bigfoot “rubbed the brush against her belly. Her wrists went in a circle. As she moved the hairbrush, it disappeared!” When Mama opens her hand, the hairbrush has changed to a “thick paintbrush. It held a faint glow. . . She swirled it over a page in her notebook. As she did, sparkling colors appeared on the sheet.” 
  • Mama Bigfoot changes a stone into a “silvery frog.” 
  • Mama Bigfoot changes a piece of tree bark. “Mama Bigfoot spun the bark around. When her magic was done, she showed Pablo his present. It was a small carved figure of a Bigfoot.”  
  • Mama Bigfoot takes Mia’s favorite pencil. “Mama Bigfoot stared at the pencil. As her round eyes gazed into the woods, it began to split. Pieces of the pencil turned into stems. Gold and silver flowers bloomed and burst forward. They sent showering sparks into the air.” 

Spiritual Content  

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Heidi Heckelbeck Has a Secret

Heidi is not excited to go to school for the first time. While her 5-year-old little brother, Henry, is thrilled to be transitioning from homeschooling to Brewster Elementary, Heidi is terrified to be entering second grade in a public school. What if the teacher is mean to her? What if her classmates are gross? Heidi spends her morning in a very grumpy mood, thinking about how much she wants to stay home with her mother. 

Heidi remains grumpy when she gets to school and enters Mrs. Wellington’s second-grade classroom. A girl sitting next to her, named Melanie, makes fun of Heidi for being smelly, and it makes Heidi feel even more like an “alien” outcast. Still, Heidi’s day improves when her classmate Lucy Lancaster is nice to her and sits next to her at lunch. The two quickly become friends. Later, though, Melanie puts Heidi in an even worse mood by ruining Heidi’s self-portrait in art class. The bully ends up going to the principal’s office, but Heidi is left feeling miserable. 

Melanie returns to class when Mrs. Wellington’s second-graders are in the auditorium rehearsing for The Wizard of Oz. Heidi would rather not participate in the play, but much to her dismay, Melanie (who plays Dorothy) tells the drama teacher that Heidi should play the part of the “scary apple tree.” When the teacher agrees, Heidi is furious. As the school day comes to a close, Heidi thinks of ways to get back at Melanie. At home, Heidi gets an idea. Melanie might be a bully, but Heidi is something better. Heidi is a secret witch! Back in her room, Heidi pulls out her favorite book, her Book of Spells. She finds a spell for memory loss, gleefully planning her wicked scheme against Melanie. 

Heidi Heckelbeck Has a Secret is told through third-person narration and follows 8-year-old Heidi’s first day of public school. Heidi’s “secret” remains a secret for the audience until the very end, adding a minor twist that sets up the fantastical elements of the next books. This installment focuses less on Heidi’s life as a witch and more on slice-of-life issues that children could face, such as bullying and isolation. 

Despite Heidi’s grumpy mood, she is a very compelling protagonist. She is very smart and ahead of her class, but she doesn’t come across as a know-it-all. Melanie’s harsh treatment of Heidi is inexplicably cruel, and readers will feel empathy for Heidi. Heidi’s feelings of anger, sadness, fear, and confusion are depicted realistically, and children of all ages can relate to her struggles. 

Heidi Heckelbeck Has a Secret is ideal for children navigating life changes or those who feel different from their peers. It teaches that, while things may be difficult at first, there are always friends to be made. Heidi’s method of dealing with Melanie’s bullying is retaliation (through painting Melanie’s smock, planning to throw apples at her in the play, and planning to cast a spell on her). The implicit lesson is one of self-reliant retribution, but the book does depict multiple adults intervening on Heidi’s behalf. School administration, however, is unable to effectively stop Melanie’s teasing. 

Heidi Heckelbeck Has a Secret features a large, spaced-out font, making it an ideal early chapter book for children to read independently. The book also includes illustrations on every page that are both aesthetically pleasing and helpful in understanding the story. Illustrator Priscilla Burris effectively conveys the characters’ emotions and actions, as well as the various settings and objects, through her simple yet effective drawings.

Children who enjoy reading about Heidi Heckelbeck may also enjoy the Lucy Lancaster Series, another magical series set in Heidi’s world. Between homework assignments and elementary school bullies, a little bit of witchcraft can go a long way. 

Sexual Content  

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Violence  

  • When Melanie paints a zig-zag over Heidi’s self-portrait in art class, Heidi retaliates by wiping her paintbrush “across Melanie’s smock.” Melanie tries to do the same to Heidi, but the art teacher, Mr. Doodlebee, grabs Melanie’s arm before she can get paint on Heidi. 
  • Melanie is playing Dorothy in the school play, The Wizard of Oz, and Heidi is playing the evil apple tree. Heidi imagines throwing apples at Melanie, and the scene is illustrated. 

Drugs and Alcohol  

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Language  

  • Heidi’s favorite “growly word” is “merg,” and she says it every time she feels annoyed. She even writes it on the car window on the way to school. 
  • Heidi thinks that a “winter wonderland mural” in her school’s hallway looks “dumb.” 
  • Melanie is cruel to Heidi, calling her “smelly” in front of the whole class. 
  • Heidi and her classmates practice writing homophones, and Heidi writes: “School is a big, fat bore. Melanie is a mean, nasty boar.” 
  • Heidi teases her little brother Henry, calling him “a total Froot Loop.” 

Supernatural 

  • Throughout the day at school, Heidi feels like an alien compared to the other children. In art class, Heidi is told to draw a self-portrait, and she thinks, “Should I draw my alien self or my regular self?” 
  • Heidi’s secret is that she is a witch. After her rocky first day of school, Heidi pulls her Book of Spells out from a keepsake box in her room. In the book are the signatures of “The Witches of Westwick.” She opens a page that says, “How to Make Someone Forget,” and plots to use it against Melanie during the play to make her forget her lines. The spell is not cast in this book. 

Spiritual Content  

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by Gabrielle Barke 

The Wild Robot on the Island

Roz, a robot, lives in a box that crashes onto the side of an island. While there is no one on the island like her, she feels that she belongs there. Many wild animals inhabit the island with Roz. Though Roz is very different from the animals, she learns to move, hide, and communicate like them. Soon enough, Roz and the animals become good friends. All the creatures on the island, including Roz, form a community where they help each other when needed. 

One day, Roz finds an abandoned goose egg and decides to care for it. When the gosling hatches, Roz names the bird Brightbill and raises him as if he were her own child. Brightbill learns to talk, walk, swim, and fly like any other bird. While Roz cannot teach Brightbill how to behave like a bird, she teaches him how to be a good friend to all creatures. 

Eventually, the seasons begin to change, and Brightbill feels that he is changing too. Like the other birds on the island, Brightbill needs to fly south for the winter. Roz supports her son’s decision to leave with the other birds even though it makes her sad. During the colder months, the rest of the island’s creatures hibernate together. The animals support Roz as she misses Brightbill. When the seasons change again, all of the birds, including Brightbill, fly back to the island. Roz feels that all is right on the island because everyone is welcome. 

Roz is a fun protagonist that kids will love. She is silly and stands out among the wild animals. Readers might not relate to Roz because she is a robot, but she still teaches young children many lessons about friendship, such as sharing, adapting, and inclusion. However, the ways in which she demonstrates these values are completely unrelatable to humans. For example, when Roz is teaching Brightbill how to be a good friend, they watch as a duck gives a beaver “a fallen tree as a gift.” While this doesn’t happen for humans, it provides a simple and engaging way for people to learn the values of friendship. 

The animals and Brightbill on the island demonstrate the key themes that Peter Brown weaves throughout The Wild Robot. The island’s wildlife illustrates the value of approaching strangers with curiosity rather than fear. Once Roz masters their language, the animals confess they initially believed she was “a monster,” revealing how prejudgment can prevent meaningful connections. Their eventual acceptance of Roz shows that open-mindedness and inclusivity are essential for creating a thriving community. Brightbill embodies another central message: while genetics determines what we are, our upbringing shapes who we become. Though he migrates south with other geese following his natural instincts, his capacity for friendship and loyalty stems directly from Roz’s nurturing care. Through these relationships, Brown shows that community bonds can transcend biological differences when built on understanding and compassion. 

The Wild Robot on the Island is a shortened version of Peter Brown’s The Wild Robot. This version includes brighter pictures with scenes that are easy for young children to understand. Roz’s attempts to become an animal are humorous, and the pictures of Roz’s actions will entertain younger audiences as well. The clear images and short sentences make this book enjoyable for kids of all ages. This picture book adaptation simplifies an already beloved story, allowing younger audiences to read and understand the messages that Peter Brown conveys. 

Like The Wild Robot, this story explores the profound theme of extending kindness to those who are different from us. Though it may appear to be a simple tale of a robot finding her place among forest animals, Brown weaves deeper messages about compassion and open-mindedness triumphing over fear and exclusion. Communities are built on shared spaces, and everyone who inhabits those spaces deserves friendship regardless of their origins. Brown demonstrates this principle through Roz’s nurturing relationship with Brightbill and the mutual support that develops among all the island’s inhabitants. Through these interconnected acts of care and cooperation, Roz discovers that the island truly becomes “a safe place for all.” 

Sexual Content  

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Violence  

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Drugs and Alcohol  

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Language    

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Supernatural  

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Spiritual Content  

  • None 

Class President

It’s time to pick a class president, and Mindy really wants to win—and she’s basing her entire campaign on snacks and being kind, so how could she NOT be chosen?

But there is one big thing that Mindy is not sure she can do—make a speech to her class about why she would be the best pick for president. Can Mindy face her fears and show the class—and herself—that she can be the best class president ever? 

The story’s protagonist, Mindy Kim, is a realistic and kind third grader with a relatable conflict—speaking in front of the entire class. Mindy’s fear is described in kid-friendly language that leaves readers empathizing with Mindy’s fear of public speaking. For example, when Mindy tries to give her speech to her babysitter, Mindy’s, “face felt really hot like I had a fever. I was holding the speech-planning sheet, but my hands were shaking so much that I couldn’t read what it said.” Mindy has a supportive network of people who advise her on overcoming her fear. For example, before giving her speech to anyone, Mindy practices speaking to her stuffed animals.  

Mindy’s struggle with public speaking highlights the importance of preparing and practicing before a big event. Even though Mindy didn’t win the vote to be class president, she is happy for the winner and doesn’t complain. Plus, Mindy’s father is proud of her for trying. Her father says, “I think you still deserve a prize for working so hard on your speech. You improved so much, and that’s a really big accomplishment!” 

After Mindy loses the election, her father reminds her that “the things that you promised in your speech—being everyone’s friend, being nice to everyone, and giving out snacks—those are all things you can do on a day-to-day basis. You don’t have to be class president to do all three!” Mindy’s story encourages readers to be kind, even when it’s difficult. Parents will want their children to emulate Mindy’s positive behavior and kindness.   

Class President is intended for readers who are ready to read chapter books. The story has fourteen short chapters, easy vocabulary, and illustrations approximately every four pages. The pages have oversized text and some complicated sentence structure. The black-and-white illustrations will help readers visualize the characters and understand the plot. Even though Class President is the fourth book in the Mindy Kim Series, the book focuses on one event that is concluded at the end of the book, allowing readers unfamiliar with the series to enjoy Class President as a stand-alone book.   

Class President introduces readers to the voting process, gives advice on overcoming the fear of public speaking, and includes fun Halloween scenes. The mixture of home and school life blends into an entertaining story that will help readers navigate through their own conflicts and disappointments. Readers who want to learn more about running for class president should also read Jada Jones Class Act by Kelly Starling Lyons. 

Sexual Content  

  • None 

Violence  

  • None

Drugs and Alcohol  

  • None

Language  

  • Mindy’s friend, Sally, calls a mean boy a jerk. Later, Sally says, “He’s such a big baby!” 

Supernatural 

  • None 

Spiritual Content  

  • None

Crocodile Encounters!: And More True Stories of Adventures with Animals

Crocodile Encounters follows National Geographic explorer Dr. Brady Barr as he comes face to face with crocodiles and learns more about their behavior. Crocodile Encounters has four short stories, each broken into three short chapters.  

“Undercover Crock”: To catch a crocodile, Dr. Barr usually snares it with a rope, wrestles with it, jumps on its back, and then ties its mouth and legs. It’s difficult and dangerous. While visiting a school, a student asked, “Dr. Brady, why don’t you dress up as a crocodile and join the club?” So, Dr. Barr did just that. Scientists and artists made a strong crocodile that Dr. Barr could climb into. When Dr. Barr used the suit, he got an eye-to-eye view of a crocodile. 

“Toy Story”: While visiting a school, Dr. Barr asked students for ideas on how to catch a crocodile. One student suggested using a remote-controlled toy car with a camera attached. Dr. Barr thought the idea was great. He waited until the crocodiles were basking in the sun and drove the toy car into the area where the crocodiles were sunning. Unexpectedly, a big old crocodile jumped out of the water and ate the toy car. Months later, another scientist found the toy car and the camera. The camera had recorded the crocodile’s stomach.  

“Deep Dark Den”: In Costa Rica, 13 big crocodiles lived in a lake near humans. Dr. Barr was hired to move the crocodiles to a safer place, but first, he had to catch them. Since finding crocodiles in a lake is difficult, Dr. Barr drained the lake. When the lake was empty, the crocodiles had disappeared. Another scientist found a large hole. When Dr. Barr climbed into the hole, he heard a hiss. When he turned on his flashlight, crocodile eyes stared back at him! 

“Croc in a Box”: A very large and very smart crocodile lived close to a village in Uganda. The crocodile had to be moved. Dr. Barr wanted to move the crocodile to a zoo in the United States, but first, he had to catch it and find an airliner to fly it to the U.S. Dr. Barr caught the croc and put it in a large box. Dr. Barr didn’t think the crocodile would escape, but it did! Luckily, that was before it was put on an airplane. 

Crocodile Encounters takes a deep dive into the world of crocodiles from Dr. Barr’s point of view. Readers will be amazed as they learn facts about crocodiles and how to keep them safe from humans.  

Based on the hit feature in National Geographic Kids magazine, National Geographic Chapter Series features true stories that are divided into three short chapters. The book is packed with full-color photography, lists, and infographics. Some pages also include orange boxes that contain additional facts about the animals. For example, “Humans only have two sets of teeth, but crocs lose teeth and grow new ones throughout their lifetime.”   

Readers who are fascinated by crocodiles will find Crocodile Encounters entertaining and educational. The pictures will help readers understand how crocodiles see at night and other interesting facts. Dr. Barr’s love of crocodiles comes through on every page, but readers who don’t already love crocodiles will quickly become bored. Crocodile Encounters is an excellent book to use for crocodile research. If you love crocodiles, you may also want to read the Ancient Animals Series by Sarah L. Thomson. 

Sexual Content  

  • None 

Violence  

  • In Costa Rica, crocodiles in a lake were labeled problem crocs. “They were upsetting human neighbors by attacking dogs, cats, and even cows!”  
  • In most countries, when crocodiles are labeled problems, they are killed.  

Drugs and Alcohol  

  • None 

Language  

  • Darn is used once. 

Supernatural 

  • None 

Spiritual Content  

  • None 

Dodsworth in London

Dodsworth, a distinguished mouse, and his mischievous friend—a white duck known only as “the duck”—are visiting London. Join this charming duo as they tour the city and take in the familiar landmarks of a fictional early 20th-century England, bustling with a menagerie of impeccably dressed animal characters who go about their days and speak in proper British accents. 

Their first stop is a pub, and almost immediately, the duck’s shenanigans land the friends in trouble. After attempting to join a city tour on a red double-decker bus, a crowded station separates the pair, setting off a comical series of events that brings as much distress as they do delight. From losing his duck friend to a case of mistaken identity, Dodsworth is left feeling utterly devastated. Will Scotland Yard solve the case of the missing duck—and will these two friends find a way to reunite? 

In this chapter book, Egan’s themes of friendship, loss, and perseverance run through a simple narrative that is sure to keep young readers in suspense. Picking up where Dodsworth in Paris left off, the duo arrives in England by hot air balloon, and the duck immediately causes havoc. Dodsworth is constantly trying to ensure his friend behaves appropriately, while the duck—driven by earnest curiosity—seeks mischief at every turn. Spotting the pub’s darts and dartboard, Dodsworth warns, “Don’t even think about it.” You can guess what happens next! The two friends have a lighthearted way of coexisting, and ever-practical Dodsworth decides the best way to tour the city is by bus, so he can keep an eye on his friend and avoid losing him in the fog. But the plan backfires. 

What comes next steers the story toward a spectacular final twist. Young readers will relate to the heartbreak Dodsworth feels when he realizes he’s lost track of his friend, but that realization doesn’t come right away. Playfully, Egan introduces another duck into the story, and through a case of mistaken identity, Dodsworth meets a “Royal Duck.” A series of hilarious exchanges soon makes it clear that this duck, who speaks “with a British accent,” isn’t his duck. Fortunately, the Royal Duck proves to be a soothing and empathetic presence, becoming a pivotal ally in the search for Dodsworth’s missing friend. 

The story is suitable for fluent readers who are ready for a book with multiple plotlines. Cheerful watercolor and ink illustrations appear on every page. Many of the illustrations depict the characters’ facial expressions, which will help readers understand their emotions more clearly. Additionally, readers can use context clues and illustrations to understand the meanings of unfamiliar words, such as pub. The story subtly introduces British English vocabulary, such as crumpets and tea, as well as landmarks including Buckingham Palace and Big Ben. Although Dodsworth is a series, the books do not need to be read in order, as each focuses on a distinct storyline. 

Reminiscent of the Shakespearean play Much Ado About Nothing, this lighthearted story unfolds as readers try to discover where the duck actually is. This all unfolds against Dodsworth’s unwavering perseverance to find his friend. With help from the Royal Duck, Scotland Yard, the Buckingham Palace guards, and the Queen herself, the story concludes on a happy note sure to satisfy young readers and parents alike. The story concludes when “Dodsworth laughed and hugged the duck again. And this time, as the night fell on London, the duck actually hugged him back.” 

Sexual Content  

  • None 

Violence  

  • None 

Drugs and Alcohol  

  • None 

Language  

  • None 

Supernatural 

  • None 

Spiritual Content  

  • None 

A Fairy Finds Her Song

Every fairy has a gift that makes their wings grow—but Lily, a young fairy, is having trouble discovering hers. She watches her fairy friends Jasmine, who has super strength, and Sky, who can fly to extraordinary heights, excel in their talents. With the help of Jasmine and Sky, and her human friend, Willow, will Lily be able to discover what makes her special? 

Lily’s human friend, Willow, plays a pivotal role in Lily’s breakthrough. One day, Lily finds a lost bird and sings a song to communicate with it. Her song helps the little bird reunite with its mother. After witnessing this, Willow suggests that Lily’s songs may be her gift. Feeling encouraged, Lily sings songs and forms connections with frogs, bees, and butterflies. As Lily sings, her wings start to grow. 

Though she struggles, Lily never loses hope that she is destined for something great. Lily thinks, “My gift is hard to find. It must be extra special.” Her fairy friends encourage her to attempt new things, such as trying to see objects clearly in the dark, until she finds something that clicks. Lily’s determination will inspire young readers to stay curious and never give up on their own journeys to self-discovery. 

Young readers will be enchanted by the vibrant, magical illustrations that will transport them into Lily’s whimsical world. The artwork mirrors Lily’s growth throughout the story. Initially, she appears small in comparison to her fairy friends and certain animals. By the end, Lily soars high with her large, glowing wings as her three friends cheer her on. These drawings will help young readers identify Lily’s growth—both in her wing size and her character. 

Alongside these detailed illustrations, each page contains one to four short, simple sentences. The book opens with the lines “I am Lily. I am a fairy.” Beginning the story with these two sentences will help readers immediately identify and connect with the main character. Each page has one to two sentences that include sight words. The concise language makes this story accessible to young children who are beginning to read independently. 

While the simple plot is easy to follow, Bea Jackson weaves a meaningful message about individuality into the narrative. Through Lily’s journey and friendships, young readers will learn that everyone has different strengths and talents, and that with practice and perseverance, they can discover their own. A Fairy Finds Her Song is a joyful celebration of the unique gifts that we carry—and how using these gifts to help others can make the world even more magical. 

Sexual Content  

  • None 

Violence  

  • None

Drugs and Alcohol  

  • None 

Language    

  • None 

Supernatural  

  • None

Spiritual Content  

  • None 

by Madeline Hettrick 

Drive It! Fix It!

Meet Ace, a determined and curious girl who readers will follow to a go-kart race with a car she built herself. This story is engaging yet to the point: Ace builds her car on her own, works through obstacles while maintaining a positive attitude, and wins the race. 

Ace faces her first obstacle before the race even begins when she realizes her car won’t start. She tests several parts until she finds the right one, showing readers how to try different solutions when faced with a problem. During the race, her wheels get stuck in a rut and begin wobbling, causing her to lose speed as other racers pass her one by one. Instead of giving up, Ace grips the steering wheel, corrects the wobble, regains her speed, and passes the other racers to cross the finish line first. With each conflict, Ace remains calm and does what she can to fix it, whether finding a missing part or guiding the wheels back on track. These moments highlight her problem-solving skills and demonstrate that perseverance can help overcome any challenge. This satisfying victory rewards readers who have watched her overcome adversity. 

Although there are no supporting characters, the illustrations feature other racers in the background to provide context to Ace’s world. Ace remains the focus as she models resilience and resourcefulness throughout the race. Her determination, resilience, and victory make her an excellent role model for any child. 

The Racing Ace series employs short sentences with bold fonts and varied text placement to maintain a quick pace throughout the story. This approach makes the language accessible and easy to follow, perfect for young readers who are beginning to build their reading stamina and transition into chapter books. The book supports early reading comprehension with its fun story, steady pacing, and straightforward narrative without major deviations from the main plot. 

The text features repetition of words and phrases to build rhythm and emphasize Ace’s determination. Phrases like “And faster, and faster, and faster” build excitement as Ace gains speed and passes other racers. This mirrors her emotions and draws readers into the action. 

The full-color illustrations are bright and dynamic, reflecting Ace’s energetic personality. Each page is designed to keep readers engaged, matching the thrilling speed and resilience of Ace’s journey. The illustrations add clarity to the story, giving readers both visual and narrative understanding of how the race unfolds. 

Racing Ace: Drive It! Fix It! is an enriching read perfect for young readers interested in cars, races, or stories about brave, capable characters. The book offers a powerful reminder that creativity, perseverance, and quick thinking can help overcome challenges and find success, even when the road gets bumpy. 

Sexual Content  

  • None 

Violence  

  • None 

Drugs and Alcohol  

  • None 

Language  

  • None 

Supernatural 

  • None 

Spiritual Content  

  • None 

by Rayna Burlison 

The Scarecrow

The Scarecrow is a quiet, emotional story about a scarecrow that spends his life standing alone in an empty field. The story is told in the third person, allowing readers to watch his life unfold. The scarecrow is not human; he can’t speak, but his gentle nature and deep sadness make him an easy character to sympathize with. He spends his days and nights scaring animals away, never getting a chance to experience companionship. Readers will find his loyalty and silent kindness admirable, as his life is dedicated to protecting the fields, despite his loneliness. 

The other character is a small, vulnerable crow that falls into the field. At first, the crow is weak and needs the warmth from the scarecrow to survive. The scarecrow protects the crow from nature’s elements. Their bond brightens the scarecrow’s life. When the crow grows and is strong enough to fly, he leaves to explore the world, leaving the scarecrow all alone once more. However, the crow later returns, bringing his own family with him, filling the scarecrow’s life with joy and love. The crow adds hope to the scarecrow’s silent life, showing readers that acts of kindness and love are never forgotten. 

The story is gentle and deeply emotional. It explores themes of loneliness, kindness, and friendship in ways that young readers can easily understand. The ending is heartwarming, showing that even if someone is alone for a long time, love can find its way back to them. There is no high conflict or dramatic stakes, just a progression from solitude to companionship. It has a gradual and soothing pace that makes it a comforting story for young children. 

The Scarecrow uses poetic text with a consistent rhyme scheme to create a calm and reflective reading experience. The soft rhythm and descriptive language reflect the changing seasons and emotional beats of the story. The full-color illustrations are rich and warm, using earthy browns, soft golds, and gentle greens to bring the fields to life. The scarecrow’s stitched expressions and the tiny details, such as falling leaves, ripening corn, and sunset skies, keep the reader engaged. Overall, the warm illustrations, combined with the descriptive story, enhance the narrative and make it a great read-aloud experience. 

The Scarecrow is the perfect book for adults to read with a child, especially those who want to help young children understand the importance of kindness, empathy, and caring for others. The overall message is that love and friendship can be shown in the simplest acts. Through its powerful yet gentle story, The Scarecrow reminds readers that no one is meant to stand alone forever. Get in the mood for warm snuggles and falling leaves by also reading The Very Best Pumpkin by Mark Kimball Moulton and Leif and the Fall by Allison Sweet Grant & Adam Grant. 

Sexual Content  

  • None 

Violence  

  • None 

Drugs and Alcohol  

  • None 

Language  

  • None 

Supernatural 

  • None 

Spiritual Content  

  • None 

by Rayna Burlison

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