Dive into the twisted corridors of Book of Screams, a novel of chilling, middle-grade short stories written by Jeff Szpirglas with illustrations by Steven Hughes. These tales will certainly leave you questioning the shadows lurking in corners. … More Book of Screams by Jeff Szpirglas
At no point is Rae admonishing, despite the fact that the environmental crisis we are living in might demand it. Instead, she provides the reader with the base information of how water bodies work and then speaks to the ways in which humans have manipulated these ecosystems—through dams, systems of irrigation, among others—and the negative effects this has had not only the environment, but also on particular groups of people. … More Upstream, Downstream: Exploring Watershed Connections by Rowena Rae
In this middle-grade novel, real world issues such as poverty and bullying are explored in a kid-friendly manner. … More Willpower by Marty Chan
Introduced as your typical self-absorbed tweenaged boy, Jamie grows into a mature pragmatist, undaunted by suffering. His character development is natural, easy to follow, and one of Flight Plan’s shining features. … More Flight Plan by Eric Walters
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
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 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
From start to finish, Bonesmith’s storyline is thrilling, captivating, mysterious, and emotional. There are several twists and turns that made reading an exciting experience, its ending leaving me satisfied but wanting more. I was constantly on the edge of my seat! … More Bonesmith by Nicki Pau Preto
Review by Lisa Matthewson Orca Book Publishers, August, 2023 96 pages, paperback, $10.95 CAD, 9781459837218 Young Adult, Ages 12+ (Hi-Lo) Action/Adventure, Survival I wonder what time it is. My phone battery died hours ago, and I don’t have a watch. The rain clouds make it seem gloomy. Is it nearly night? I’m pretty tired. My … More Aftershock by Gabrielle Prendergast
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
YOUNG ADULTING 