Magic amongst the trees, a rumour of a devil, and friends going missing—Camp Twisted Pine is not the pleasant summer camp that was promised. Booksmart Naomi, who prefers the indoors, was already hesitant about the camp before hearing of its legends… … More Camp Twisted Pine by Ciera Burch
Jessie is the heart of the story and it was easy to follow along with her and to understand and sympathize with her choices as she discovered how to deal with crushes, friend troubles, and the general chaos of the first year of high school. … More Something More by Jackie Khalilieh
The slow emergence of Dr Morely’s prized jellyfish adds a sneaky seek-and-find element to the story that is sure to delight young readers. Expect to be flicking back and forth as you try to find it on each page! Similarly, plan to spend some time poring over the detailed cross section of the research ship, which is filled with intricacies and easter eggs. … More The Search for the Giant Arctic Jellyfish by Chloe Savage
The visuals mix with the narrative to allow the author to let us into a multilayered world where everyone knows the strangers are not human but have them still treated as any human in need would be. … More We Are Definitely Human by X. Fang
The book is centered around feelings of empathy for stray animals and providing achievable solutions. … More Ethan and the Strays, by John Sullivan, illus. Hatem Aly
From the first pages, readers learn that Jasmine’s daily life revolves around her nurturing family and caring for their farm. With her veterinarian mother and farmer father, Jasmine has always been surrounded by animals, such as chickens, lambs, and even guinea pigs. … More Jasmine Green Rescues: A Piglet Called Truffle by Helen Peters, illus. Ellie Snowdon
Set in the softest parts of childhood memory, Frostfire weaves visual wonder into a story about exploration and curiosity. With a new take on old mythology, the book captures a journey between two sisters and dusts well-established themes with glittering snow. … More Frostfire by Elly MacKay
When Mina leaves for the Goblin Market and doesn’t return, Millie dons her red cloak and sets out to find her. Ready to face the worst, Millie doesn’t shy away from the dangers as she faces the tricky and magical world of the Goblin Market. Using her wits, Millie will do everything to save her dear sister Mina and bring her home safe and sound. … More Into the Goblin Market, by Vikki Vansickle, illus. Jensine Eckwall
Wab Kinew has created a beautiful world that intertwines virtual reality and Anishinaabe culture in a wonderful way. Descriptions of the Floraverse are stunning and I felt myself get sucked into the ‘Verse, captured by Bugz’ adventures. Chapters often ended on cliffhangers, and I was unable to put the book down. … More The Everlasting Road by Wab Kinew
One take-away readers can draw from this story is the importance of meeting one’s neighbors and community. As Roy emphasizes, you never know who your neighbors could be, the interesting stories they have, or the fun skills they may have mastered. It can also be daunting moving somewhere new, and this story may help encourage a young reader to reach out and make friends in their community. … More Roy is Not a Dog, by Esmé Shapiro and Daniel Newell Kaufman
