Fiction – Page 9 – YOUNG ADULTING

How Does Santa Go Down the Chimney? by Mac Barnett, illus. Jon Klassen

February 6, 2024

Barnett’s narrative explores this simple premise with several such creative possibilities that are silly, clever, and brilliantly funny all at once. The story unfolds as the readers follow Santa down the chimney, and into the house as he leaves presents under the tree and gobbles up a plate of cookies, possibly with his special night vision abilities. … More How Does Santa Go Down the Chimney? by Mac Barnett, illus. Jon Klassen

Our Pool by Lucy Ruth Cummins

January 30, 2024

With such an engaging and energetic topic, the underlying message of acceptance and community is integrated so perfectly by Cummins. We see how this young child enjoys playing with everyone at the pool, and, of course, how their supportive mother frequently checks in to remind them to put on sunscreen and eat lunch. … More Our Pool by Lucy Ruth Cummins

Spell Bound by F. T. Lukens

January 4, 2024

The world of Spell Bound is incredibly immersive, creating distinct environments that drew me in. Lukens’ also captures the often awkward, new, and exciting adolescent experience of budding relationships and crushes through Sun and Rook’s endearing ‘grumpy and sunshine’ dynamic. … More Spell Bound by F. T. Lukens

A Green Velvet Secret by Vicki Grant

December 28, 2023

To tell a story that is inherently drenched in heartache, not to mention to such a young audience, requires much tact. Vicki Grant has not taken this responsibility lightly; with her expert hand, she has infused a sorrowful story with just the right amount of comfort, hope, and sparkle. … More A Green Velvet Secret by Vicki Grant

Talk Santa to Me by Linda Urban

December 26, 2023

Talk Santa to Me goes beyond a heartwarming tale; it imparts essential messages about belief, resilience, and enduring love. Francie’s journey underscores Christmas’s true essence – the gifts of hope, love, and family are far more important than material possessions. … More Talk Santa to Me by Linda Urban

Hooray for DNA by Pauline Thompson, illus. Greg Pizzoli

December 7, 2023

Topics like science can be confusing for some young kids, and this lack of understanding might sometimes cause disinterest, so it is refreshing to see a book make STEM fun and accessible. Specifically, the topic of DNA is such an essential aspect of understanding our world, and communicating its importance in an exciting way is a fantastic method to get kids interested. … More Hooray for DNA by Pauline Thompson, illus. Greg Pizzoli

Their Vicious Games by Joelle Wellington

November 30, 2023

At the centre of the story, Adina is a fascinating character that doesn’t demand you to like her, but to understand her motivations. Still, it’s impossible not to admire how her stubbornness in holding onto her dreams translates into loyalty toward others and upholding her own dignity. … More Their Vicious Games by Joelle Wellington

Weather Together by Jessica Sima

November 9, 2023

While telling a tale of friendship between two very different unicorns, this book molds its subtle wisdom into metaphors that can guide young readers as they learn to confront the dark clouds they may find over their own heads. … More Weather Together by Jessica Sima

The Song That Called Them Home by David A. Robertson, illus. by Maya McKibbin

November 2, 2023

The pages are layered with colours that contrast with each other and stand out in a beautiful way, drawing the eye immediately across the pages. I was captivated by the illustrations of the Memekwesewak, who are drawn as little white creatures with pink mischievous faces and intricate designs circling their bodies. … More The Song That Called Them Home by David A. Robertson, illus. by Maya McKibbin

Scaredy Squirrel in a Nutshell by Melanie Watt

October 19, 2023

Watt seems to recognize that Scaredy might be a relatable figure to readers and includes a positive moral for those who see themselves as the nervous protagonist. Scaredy learns that slowly stepping out of his comfort zone provides a positive experience. … More Scaredy Squirrel in a Nutshell by Melanie Watt

YOUNG ADULTING

Serious Reviews of Books for Kids and Teens

Category: Fiction