Book Reviews – Kids

Stargazing by Jen Wang 2019

I enjoyed this book very much and especially appreciate the way the friendship developed. I hope it will encourage kids to give each other a second chance and help them accept differences. I remember the . . . read more »

Aru Shah and the End of Time by Roshani Chokshi 2018

I struggled hard with this book! Thrills a minute, Indian mythology, Gods, Goddesses, monsters, adventure, coming of age, middle school humor and pathos. Too much! I really respect and admire Rick Riordan’s concepts and achievements. . . . read more »

Pulp by Robin Talley 2018

A confusing book at first with every other chapter being 60 years apart, many characters, and a story within a story or two. But a great perspective on basic human rights for all. We’ve come . . . read more »

Sweeping Up the Heart by Kevin Henkes 2019

Words that strike me about this book are crystalline, integrity, essential. It reminded me of standing in my grandmothers farm house and thinking it was the truest place I’d ever felt. Same with Emily Dickinson’s . . . read more »

PAX by Sarah Pennypacker 2016

I’m undone by this story. It’s beautiful writing and strong characters gripped me hard. It’s tough to let go. Simply, a boy and his pet fox are separated and will not rest till they find . . . read more »

Downriver byWill Hobbs (1991)

It’s possible I have read this before. I can’t remember which Will Hobbs titles I read years ago. I have always loved his books. I was reminded of him by an article in SLJ. This . . . read more »

Forever or a Long Long Time by Caela Carter 2017

This is a very powerful story about adoption and the hugely complicated emotional landscape of the children and parents involved. I loved it and will highly recommend it.  12-14-18 Reviewed by Susan Plimpton