Book Review: Book Scavenger by Jennifer Chambliss Bertman

Book Scavenger is a middle grade novel by Jennifer Chambliss Bertman. For twelve-year-old Emily, the best thing about moving to San Francisco is that it’s the home city of her literary idol: Garrison Griswold, book publisher and creator of the online sensation Book Scavenger (a game where books are hidden in cities all over the country and clues to find them are revealed through puzzles). Upon her arrival, however, Emily learns that Griswold has been attacked and is now in a coma, and no one knows anything about the epic new game he had been poised to launch. Then Emily and her new friend James discover an odd book, which they come to believe is from Griswold himself, and might contain the only copy of his mysterious new game.Emily and James rush from clue to clue, desperate to figure out the secret at the heart of Griswold’s new game before those who attacked Griswold come after them too. 

Book Scavenger is a book that combines the coming of age theme of changing schools and moving with a mystery and code breaking skills. Emily and her family moves around regularly, and at 12, Emily is starting to wish she could lay down roots and stay in one place for awhile. Meanwhile, her idol has been attacked and his next big game has been accidentally launched early, and Emily is working hard with her new friend James and her older brother Matthew to solve the clues and find the prize before the people searching for the original clue and final prize catch up to them and take what they want. The story covers a lot of ground and has something for every type of reader. There is a mystery to solve, codes to break, history to learn, and some great kids trying to find their place in the world. Each of the main players is multi dimensional and believable. I just wish I had the time to take part in a game like Book Scavenger, if only it really existed. 

Book Scavenger is a great middle grade novel for a variety of readers. It is fast paced and will appeal to mystery lovers, history buffs, and those that love a good character driven story.

Book Review: Nerdy Birdy by Aaron Reynolds and Matt Davies

Nerdy Birdy is a picturebook written by Aaron Reynolds and illustrated by Matt Davies. Nerdy Birdy likes reading, video games, and reading about video games, which immediately disqualifies him for membership in the cool crowd. The cool birds are the eagle, robin, cardinal, and so on. The good looking and athletic birds, and Nerdy Birdy just does not fit in. When he's at his lowest point, Nerdy Birdy meets a flock just like him. He has friends and discovers that there are far more nerdy birdies than cool birdies in the sky. However, there is still another lesson to be learned.

Nerdy Birdy is a great book about being yourself, finding your own tribe, and not excluding those that do not have the same interests as yourself. So many children and adults start off like Nerdy Birdy, trying to fit in with the "cool kids'. However, once they find people that share their interests but are not necessarily 'cool' they have much more fun and realize there are many more of us that do not fit in with the cool crowd than do. I like that Reynolds did not leave it there, which most authors seem to do with feel goo stories about misfits finding friends, they took it one step further and show the tribe of nerd birds treating a bird that was not a cool bird, but not like them either, as badly as they had been treated. Nerdy Birdy does the right thing, and forges a fantastic friendship. The book just made me happy on several levels.

Nerdy Birdy is a fabulous book for storytimes, both at home and in class or library settings. It is a good mirror to some of the adult conflicts going on now, where outcasts find their tribe and then treat those that do not match their image of friends horribly. It happens too much, and maybe if children and adults alike were a little more like Nerdy Birdy we would all be happier. 

Early Book Review: Warren the 13th and The All-Seeing Eye by Tania del Rio, Will Staehle

Warren the 13th and The All-Seeing Eye is a middle grade novel with a Victorian feel written by Tania del Rio and illustrated by Will Staehle. It is currently scheduled for release on November 24 2015. Warren the 13th is a cursed 12-year-old Victorian bellhop who’s terribly unlucky. Despite how hard he works and the troubles he faces, he is still optimistic and curious. Orphan Warren’s pride and joy is his family’s hotel, but he’s been miserable ever since his evil Aunt Anaconda took over the management. Anaconda believes a mysterious treasure known as the All-Seeing Eye is hidden somewhere on the grounds, and she’ll do anything to find it. If Warren wants to preserve his family’s legacy, he’ll need to find the treasure first, if the hotel’s many strange and wacky guests don’t beat him to it!

Warren the 13th and The All-Seeing Eye is a fantasy adventure  with two-color illustrations that help capture the attention of readers. the book has a spooky feel and a fun mystery. warren works hard to keep his new Aunt happy, although he never can. he works even harder to keep his family's hotel, and legacy, running as well as he can by himself. He thinks the all Seeing Eye is just a myth, but when his aunt's sisters, and then a slew of mysterious guests, all come hunting for the treasure warren knows he needs to stay a step ahead of his aunt. Things get dicey for Warren as he tries to do his work and hunt for the eye, and both friends and foes seem to be everywhere. I liked how good-natured and hard working Warren was, and the perpetual residents of the hotel do their best to assist him and save the hotel. A mysterious girl and the new, wacky guests add extra spice to mystery and keep readers turning pages. I will admit that I was not expecting the end! There were small aspects of it that I was ready for, but the big picture was much bigger than I was prepared for, and I loved it.



Warren the 13th and The All-Seeing Eye is a wonderful mix of gothic fiction, mystery, and magic. The story draws readers in and keeps them guessing. Even when you think you have it all figured out, there is another surprise around the corner. 

Book Review: Everyone Loves Bacon by Kelly DiPuccio, Eric Wight

Everyone Loves Bacon is a picturebook written by Kelly DiPuccio and illustrated by Eric Wight. Every food in the kitchen loves Bacon, and they all are his friends. He is practically sizzling with the popularity and praise he receives. However, after awhile all that fame goes to his head and he forgets about friends and family, instead focusing on how much he is loved. In the end things take a decidedly delicious turn.

Everyone Loves Bacon is a fun book that shows how easy it can be to lose ourselves in praise and attention. Bacon eats up all the attention he gets, and in doing so treats those that have always been by his side badly. This is never a good course of action, and his friends do not take kindly to it. The ending is not really a resolution to that problem, but is a good reminder that when 'everyone' loves you often times at least one of those admirers is out to take a bite of the action.

Everyone Loves Bacon is a a fun story with a delightful surprise ending. It was downright delicious, and now I am hungry for something crispy.

Book Review: Interstellar Cinderella by Deborah Underwood, Meg Hunt

Interstellar Cinderella is a picturebook written by Deborah Underwood and illustrated by Meg Hunt. This steampunk take on Cinderella features a strong young girl that is a mechanic ace. With a little help from her fairy godrobot, Cinderella is going to the ball. When the prince's ship has mechanical trouble, someone will have to zoom to the rescue!

Interstellar Cinderella is a wonderful picturebook. I love that this Cinderella is smart, capable, and strong. Instead of loosing a shoe, this heroine loses her wrench, which the Prince offers to potential brides as a test. to marry him they need to fix something for him to prove that they are the mechanic of his dreams. I really loved, seriously loved, her response to his proposal and the intelligent and independent main character of the story. In fact, after cataloging this book I shared it with every fellow library staff member that would listen and it was quickly checked out for an upcoming storytime.

Interstellar Cinderella is a must read. I cannot overstate my love for this picturebook. Even if you do not have any kids in the house, take a moment and enjoy this wonderful new take on Cinderella.

Book Review: Penelope Perfect A Tale of Perfectionism Gone Wild by Shannon Anderson

Penelope Perfect: A Tale of Perfectionism Gone Wild by Shannon Anderson is a children's book written in rhyme about a young lady that tries to be perfect in everything she does. When a power outage makes her wake up late, her whole day is thrown off. Could changing her routine be more than the disaster she expects?

Penelope Perfect: A Tale of Perfectionism Gone Wild is a great book for anyone, of any age, that gets anxiety ridden or out of sorts when things do not go as planned. I am one of those people that need to be early for everything, so the idea of starting off late is just as scary to me as it was for Penelope. Just like Penelope I like to follow my schedule, and I think many children feel the same way. However, Penelope eventually is shown that loosing the reigns and stepping outside your comfort zone can be a good thing. 

Penelope Perfect: A Tale of Perfectionism Gone Wild is a story of encouragement and understanding. It is told in rhyme, and has a cheerful tone to it, which might help readers feel calm as they read. I liked that the book includes information to help students, teachers, and parents deal with stress and anxiety and how to talk about related problems.

Early Book Review: Magical Animal Adoption Agency: The Enchanted Egg by Kallie George and Alexandra Boiger

The Enchanted Egg is the second book in the Magical Animal Adoption Agency series written by Kallie George and illustrated by Alexandra Boiger. It is currently scheduled for release on November 3 2015. Mr. Jams brought home an enchanted egg from his last journey, and Clover can't wait to find out what kind of creature the polka-dotted shell contains. But one morning after Mr. Jams leaves on another trip Clover checks on the cozy nest of feathers she's made for the egg. She finds the nest empty and the baby animal is nowhere in sight! Clover is anxious to find the creature, but the Agency is full of visitors looking for pets of their own. Will Clover be able to match them with their perfect companions and save the mysterious animal before Mr. Jams returns from his trip?

The Enchanted Egg is a great follow up to Clover's Luck. Clover is settling into her work at the Magical Adoption Center, and loving the daily tasks involved in learning about and taking care of magical creatures. When Mr. Jams runs off again to get special supplied to care for whatever might be hatching for the mystery egg she is a little worried, but content in her duties. That is until the mystery egg hatches and Clover cannot find anything by mischief in the wake of the critter, but no sight of it. When a variety of hopeful adopters come looking for the perfect pets, and Clover still looking for the former inhabitant of the egg her wit and resolve are tested. Thankfully Clover's good heart and quick thinking save the day again.

The Enchanted Egg is a delightful book. I do suggest reading the series in order, and thanks to a little tease at the end of this book I am very eager to get my hands on the next book. I highly recommend this series to young chapter book readers that enjoy reading about animals, magic, or both.  

Early Book Review: Build!: A Knight’s Castle Paper Toy Archaeology by Annalie Seaman, , Charlie Simpson

Build!: A Knight’s Castle Paper Toy Archaeology by Annalie Seaman is an interactive children's book that is currently scheduled for release on October 20 2015.  This puzzle-in-a-book invites kids ages 7 and older to pop out and assemble a stand-up castle complete with knights and battle equipment. Like real archaeologists, kids will interpret clues from medieval documents, paintings, maps, and ground surveys, and then apply their knowledge to excavate the site of a besieged castle and reconstruct both the castle and the battle scene, figuring out how the pieces of wall fit together, what's located inside the courtyard, how a trebuchet works, and much more. With the final setup of warring knights on horseback, the battle comes to life! This book offers hours of imaginative play so fascinating that kids won't even notice how much they're learning along the way.  

Build!: A Knight’s Castle Paper Toy Archaeology is a great way to make history and archaeology come alive for interested students. The book allows children to act as detective, builder, and archaeologists to build their own castle. They can read about castle life and battles while learning about how archaeologists work. The hands on action of popping out the pieces and building with engage readers and make the information become even more real for them. The reader must use their new-found knowledge of how the castle was laid out, and what siege engines looked like to figure out how to piece the paper scene together. This is a great way to get mildly interested kids much more involved in reading and learning about medieval times and/or the science of archaeology. 

Build!: A Knight’s Castle Paper Toy Archaeology is fantastic. Readers are given information about how archaeologists uncover remains, and use secondary sources.

Annalie Seaman, author of Build! A Knight’s Castle, is an archaeologist and educator. Passionate about sharing the extraordinary history of humanity with the next generation, she provides educational and experimental courses for both children and adults at the Sussex School of Archaeology. Seaman lives in Sussex, England.

Early Book Review: The Peddler’s Road by Matthew Cody

The Peddler’s Road is a middle grade novel by Matthew Cody. This will be the first book in his new Secrets of the Pied Piper series, and is scheduled for release on October 27 2015. It is said that in the thirteenth century, in a village called Hamelin, a piper lured all but one of the town’s children away with his magical flute. Today tough, pink-haired Max and her little brother, Carter, are stuck in modern-day Hamelin with their father until they are also led away by the Piper to a place called the Summer Isle. There they meet the original stolen children, who haven’t aged a day and who have formed their own village, vigilantly guarded from the many nightmarish beings that roam the land. Their appearance may be the key to returning the lost children of Hamelin, and to going home themselves. However, in order to discover the secrets of the Piper, Max and Carter will have to set out on a mysterious quest down the dangerous Peddler’s Road.

The Peddler’s Road is the start to another great middle grade series from Matthew Cody. I really enjoyed the characters, Max is a spunky girl with a strong mind but growing through a period of many changes. Carter has always had challenges, and has faced them with intelligence and grace. Getting stolen away to the Summer Isle is no exception. The framework of folklore and magic woven through the story is wonderfully done, with each character getting enough detail and personality to bring them to life. My only complaint with the story is that when it ended I needed more. The story leaves so many loose ends, definitely a cliff hanger that need the sequels to complete the story in my opinion. I love series that give at least some resolution, while still urging readers to keep reading. I dis not feel that I got quite enough of that resolution to keep me happy, instead I got another layer of plot and complication that needs resolution in the future installments. 

The Peddler’s Road is as well written and engaging as I expect from Cody. I really liked the main characters, especially Max, and felt like they all had significant growth in the story. I was not happy with the inconclusive ending, but am likely to read the sequels because I need to know how they solve the huge problems they are facing.  

Book Review: The Princess and the Pony by Kate Beaton

The Princess and the Pony is a picturebook by Kate Beaton. Princess Pinecone knows exactly what she wants for her birthday this year. A big, strong horse. A horse fit for the warrior princess that she is! But when the day arrives, she doesn't quite get the horse of her dreams.

The Princess and the Pony is the story of every girl raised in a rough and tumble environment but is treated like a breakable princess. While the other warriors (both male and female) get armor and weapons young Princess Pinecone gets fuzzy sweaters. for her birthday she desperately wants a big, strong war horse. Instead she gets a rolly, poly pony with occasionally crossed eyes! It makes me chuckle just thinking about the illustrations of the pony, especially since it was too short for even the young princess to ride. When a big battle comes Princess Pinecone hopes the pony will prove itself worthy, and ends up winning the day in a completely unexpected way. So, we see that cuteness can be a weapon and that it is foolish to judge a warrior by their apparent fierceness or a pony (or princess) by its cuteness. Each is powerful in their own way, and deserve cuddly sweaters as well as respect for their strength. I just loved the pony, and the turn about at the end of the story.

The Princess and the Pony is a laugh out loud picturebook that deserves to be shared with readers of all ages, and all dynamics. Be prepared to be charmed, laugh a bit, and fall in love with an unforgettable pony. 

Book Review: Digby O'Day and the Great Diamond Robbery by Shirley Hughes, Clara Vulliamy

Digby O'Day and the Great Diamond Robbery is a children’s chapter book written by Shirley Hughes, and illustrated by Clara Vulliamy. This is the second book about the adventures of Digby and his best friend Percy, but the books do stand on their own. This time Digby and Percy are off on a special vacation by the sea, but instead of the relaxation they expect, they find themselves in the midst of a grand adventure involving a pop star, a stolen necklace, and exploring caves with a new friend.

Digby O'Day and the Great Diamond Robbery is a great adventure for young readers. So many books for new readers are overly simple or silly, but this series is smart and interesting. Zigby has no interest in pop stars, although Percy is more than a little awestruck. The pair walk the scenic routes, making a new local friend. When the pop star is robbed the friendly pair accidentally stumble across the solution to the mystery of the stolen necklace. Once again their good natures and honesty serves the pair well and they are significantly rewarded for their positive traits. 

Digby O'Day and the Great Diamond Robbery is another early chapter book that offers readers an interesting, solid story paired with a lesson in being a good person. I would definitely recommend this book for young readers as well as more advanced readers that want to enjoy the tale.  

Early Book Review: Snap by Hazel Hutchins, Dusan Petricic

Snap is a picturebook written by Hazel Hutchins and illustrated by Dusan Petricic. It is currently scheduled for release on September 22 2015. Who does not love a brand new box of crayons?  Evan is happily using them when, Snap! The brown crayon breaks in two. Then one by one, the others break, get crushed, are blown away, or simply disappear. Evan is frustrated, but scribbles using all the bits and pieces that are left and discovers new joys and uses for all of his crayons- regardless of the shape they are in.

Snap is a picturebook that makes readers think about emotion and creativity. When things do not go as planned Evan is frustrated and wants to throw things. instead he channels that energy and uses his not so perfect crayons in new ways, and in turns discovers new things. He combines colors, uses the crayons on their sides, and even finds use for the crumbling nubs. This is a good example for readers of all ages, not to let unexpected problems destroy our fun, creativity, or enjoyment of the day.

Snap is a delightful picturebook about moving past disappointment and finding the positive in life. Evan's brand new crayons break, disappear, and otherwise fail him. but, he moves forward and discovers new ways to use them that make him happy. I can think of many daily situations when we could all stand to follow in Evan's example- myself included. 

Book Review: Jampires by Sarah McInture & David O'Connell

Jampires is a picturebook by Sarah McInture & David O'Connell. The jam has been sucked out of Sam's doughnuts! Who are the culprits? Sam sets a trap to catch the jam thieves and gets a surprise! It's the Jampires, friendly little creatures whose love of jam and sweet things gets them into trouble! They fly off with Sam to their magical land sitting in the clouds, where doughnuts grow on trees, jam tarts sprout like flowers, and castles are made of jammy sponge cake.

Jampires is an imaginative picture book that will either ignite your young readers imagination, or at least get them giggling about the very idea of jampires scurrying around the world sucking the jam out of sweet treats. I really enjoyed the illustrations and the imagination that went into creating creatures like jampires and the sticky sweet world they come from. My only worry is that my sweet craving kiddos would try to pull crazy jam sucking schemes (if I actually kept any jam or jelly filled treats in the house).

Jampires is a silly and fun story for reading together during story time or as part of a bedtime routine. It would be fun to include donuts or danish in the next day's activities (with or without jelly) to continue the fun. 

Early Book Review: Magnus by Claire Shorrock

Magnus is a picturebook by Claire Shorrock which is currently scheduled for release on October 1 2015. Magnus is a big dog. Magnus is such a big dog that no one wants to play with him, and there's no room for him at home. But when Magnus spots danger, he knows just what do to do save the day. And because he is so very BIG, his simple plan works.

Magnus is a sweet book, very reminiscent of Clifford but with a fresh look. Magnus is huge and accidentally causes trouble where ever he goes. The more he tries to help and be friendly the more awkward and troublesome he feels. When he is finally able to help, and takes note of how his difference can make him very special rather than a problem, that he finds his place in the community. I think this is a great lesson for readers of all ages. It is only in using our own talents and embracing what makes up different that we can find happiness. Magnus trying to act like the smaller animals and people only caused everyone trouble, but using his size to help others saved the day and helped him find a special role in the town. We should all be so lucky to have such an obvious lesson to make us embrace our quirks rather than trying to ignore them. The illustrations are very appealing and sweet, bring Magnus to life.

Magnus is a wonderful picturebook. It combines splendid artwork with a story that is fun and sweet while still imparting a great message to readers of all ages. 

Book Review: Boats for Papa by Jessixa Bagley

Boats for Papa is a picture book by Jessixa Bagley. Buckley and his Mama live in a cozy cabin by the ocean. He loves to carve boats out of the driftwood he finds on the beach nearby. He makes big boats, long boats, short boats, and tall boats. Each one is more beautiful than the last, and sends them out to sea. If they don't come back, he knows they've found their way to his papa, whom he misses very much.

Boats for Papa is a story about love and grief. Buckley is a young bear that missing his father. It is never clearly stated whether his father is dead or just gone, but it is clear that both Buckley and his mother miss having father in their lives. The boats Buckley make to send over the water to his father are varied and beautiful, and when they do not return he just knows that they have made their way to his father. Each boat carries a note to Papa, and it is writing one note that Buckley discovers a secret and how much his mother loves him.

Boats for Papa is a a story that is sweet and sad all at once. While adult books are not often able to make me cry, this kind of picturebook has me sniffling back the tears. children suffering grief will be able to relate to this book, and see that they are not alone. it could also help them see that those around them are hurting too. The illustrations are hauntingly sweet and a perfect match for the story. It will be awhile before I do not tear up just thinking about this book. 

Early Book Review: Crenshaw by Katherine Applegate

Crenshaw by Katherine Applegate is a middle grade novel that covers some tough topics. It is currently scheduled for release on September 22 2015. Jackson's family have fallen on hard times. they are struggling and having trouble making rent and keeping everyone fed. His parents, his little sister, and their dog may have to live in their minivan. Crenshaw is a cat, Jackson's imaginary friend that is very large, opinionated, and always appears when Jackson needs help most. But is an imaginary friend enough to save this family from losing everything?

Crenshaw took me a bit by surprise. I was expecting more about magic than the hard life Jackson's family is facing. Dealing with medical bills, lay offs, and other financial troubles while keeping a family together is hard and sadly all to common these days. I liked that readers get a glimpse of the optimism and the pragmatic outlooks that people can take during hard times, and how family, perseverance, and truth might not make everything perfect but can certainly make dealing with troubles more manageable.  Jackson is a smart boy that wants to be told the truth, and can often see the truth behind the sunny outlook adults present to him. He grows a lot through the story, learning to enjoy bits of the magic hidden in everyday life while sharing the truth he wants with those that need to hear it.  This was not a fun, light read; although it had some fun moments. I think many readers will be able to relate to Jackson's outlook or situation and everyone can learn a little bit from the read.

Crenshaw tackles the truth of the hard times many families are facing, and have faced in the past. medical bills and job losses are far from new or rare, and they can bring just about any family to very hard times. I think Applegate handled the issues in a way that will foster understanding and help those facing hard times feel less alone. The addition of magic and the appreciation of the small wonders found in everyday life adds a special extra layer of meaning that will speak to many. 

Book Review: Digby O’Day In the Fast Lane by Shirley Hughes & Clara Vulliany

Digby O’Day In the Fast Lane by Shirley Hughes & Clara Vulliany is an early chapter book and nominee for a 2016 Nutmeg Award. Digby O'Day and Percy are best friends. This daring canine duo can find adventure anywhere, even entering an All-Day Race. Digby is sure he can win, especially with Percy as his co-driver. But when the race starts and Digby and Percy are quickly left in the dust, it seems like they don't stand a chance. They meet peril after peril: a car that breaks down (and slides back to the edge of a cliff!), a near miss with an oncoming train, and worst of all, Digby's archenemy, Lou Ella, who is also in the race and will stop at nothing to win. In a day full of twists, turns, thrills, and surprises, anything can happen. Who will come out ahead?

Digby O’Day In the Fast Lane is a fun and easy read for reluctant readers and those just starting to branch out into chapter books. Digby loves his car, it may be old but he takes great care of it. Digby's neighbor Lou Ella gets a new car every year and is always asking Digby when he will get a new care of his own, rather than taking care of the older car. The two, and their cars, are put to the test during the big race. Slow and stead Digby, and his good nature, suffer several hardships along the way but just keep chugging along. Lou Ella is pushy and insistent on everything being her way, and in turn makes the people around her unhappy and less than helpful because of it. The story is much more than a retelling of the Tortoise and the Hare, while there are similarities, and the characters are really well fleshed out for a story with so little text. The illustrations really bring Digby and his friends to life, making readers identify with them more than one might expect.

Digby O’Day In the Fast Lane is more than worthy of the Nutmeg nomination, and will intyerest a large number of readers. It will draw reluctant or challenged readers into the story and keep them interested on what will happen to Digby and his car next. I am looking forward to reading the sequel, Digby O'Day and the Great Diamond Robbery. 

Book Review: Little Bird's Bad Word by Jacob Grant

Little Bird's Bad Word is a picturebook by Jacob Grant. Little Bird is excited to share a new word with his friends. The only problem is, this isn't a very nice word. Little Bird doesn't realize it, but this word might even hurt someone's feelings. What word will Little Bird learn to make things better?

Little Bird's Bad Word is a picture book that draws readers of all ages in, and the artwork is a perfect match to the tale. Little Bird loves to learn new words, and when his father lets a word fly that was not meant for little ears the young bird is happy to add a new word to his vocabulary. Although his father warns him that it is not a good word to use, the young bird shows off his new word by saying it to everyone it sees. It is only by hearing his father’s apology to those offended that the young bird realizes that the word is not one to share. This story could help children and adults deal with words that hurt or offend others.

Little Bird's Bad Word is a picture book that can be enjoyed by readers of all ages. It can be useful for starting discussions about using words that might hurt others, and why some words should not be shared. Between television, movies, friends, other people in public, and parents verbally slipping under duress could teach young children words not suited for school or play time, and this book could help start a discussion about the whys of not repeating everything they hear.  

Book Review: Girlgoyle by Better Hero Army

Girlgoyle by Better Hero Army (pen name of American author Evan Ramspott) is a young adult novel that will also appeal to mature middle graders. Tiffany Noboru has just died, and woke up. Now she has wings and has been drafted into the Gargoyle Ghost Hunter Corps. Soon she is trying to fit into her new home, dealing with her recent death, and trying to avoid being killed a second time by a maniacal ghost named Bones who is seeking the destruction of the gargoyle world. Woven in are twenty original works of art by Miimork, which breathes extra life into the story.

 Girlgoyle is the story of a girl that has always struggled with fears others might deem to be irrational, and doubts about herself. When her death comes she is forced into a new world, one that forces her to deal with her fears. She considers herself small and clumsy, and has to figure out how to fly with her new wings. She has to navigate a new social structure and learn a whole new set of standards. Nothing seems to go smoothly for her, but she continues moving forward. Even when she considers giving up, she ends up facing up to her problems. I liked that Tiffany has relatable fears and struggles about herself, even while facing a fantastical set of problems. Forging friendships, finding her strengths, dealing with those who could be friends or bullies depending on which way the wind blows, and discovering the facts of the new reality she finds herself in would be enough for anyone to deal with. Adding the threat of the ghost that killed her destroying her new world, and possibly killing her (again) and her mentor makes figuring everything out even more important. I really enjoyed the character work and the work with mythology that is done within the story. I found myself fully emerged in the world while I was reading.

Girlgoyle takes a fresh look at the angel/demon mythology as well as the ghost and gargoyle legends from many cultures. I love getting a fresh look at legends and paranormal creatures, and found this angle felt very fresh and original compared to some of the other urban fantasies out there. The characters and world building were extremely well done.  I was very glad this did not turn into a romance, although I can see a couple possible paths for that to happen in the future if this is continued into a series. I would love to see what happens, and how the characters grow and interact, in the aftermath of this book’s events.

Book Review: What About Moose by Corey Rosen Schwartz, Rebecca J. Gomez

What About Moose is a new picturebook written by Corey Rosen Schwartz and Rebecca J. Gomez. It was illustrated by Keika Yamaguchi. When Fox, Toad, Bear, Porcupine, and Skunk set out to build a tree house, they know just what to do: they’ll follow a plan and they’ll work as a team. However,  Moose is not ready to listen to other peoples plans. Will Moose's 'suggestions' for a perfect tree house ruin the day?

What About Moose is a story children and adults can relate to and enjoy. Moose and his friends have a great activity planned, but following the plans is not Moose's idea. He wants things done his way, which does not work out the way he hoped it would. The repeated chorus of "What about you moose?" will have some children chanting along with the book, while everyone gets to see what it is like to have their plans trampled by others that mean well, but have not thought everything through. This is a fun story that can show children how to play and work together a little bit better, while making them laugh a little in the process.

What About Moose is a fun rhyming picturebook that can start conversations about team work and planning. As a mom with two very opinionated and stubborn children this story struck a chord, and just might make a difference. Well, at least on the day we share the book.