Children’s Book Corner Blog
New Kid
by Jerry Craft; Harper, 2019.
Jerry Craft has created a stand-out graphic novel for middle school readers in New Kid, one that is at once funny and thought-provoking. Twelve year-old Jordan Banks lives in two worlds—his Washington Heights neighborhood and the prestigious private school he commutes to daily. Over the course of his seventh grade school year, Jordan navigates new rules, new friends, and the expectations of his parents, teachers, and neighborhood friends. Throughout, his love of drawing cartoons sustains Jordan and helps him make sense of his world.
The Night Diary
by Veera Hiranandani; Kokila/Dial, 2018.
Set in India in 1947, this moving middle-grade historical fiction novel won a Newbery Honor. Written in diary form, it examines the effects of India gaining independence from Britain and becoming two countries: India and Pakistan. Known as the Partition, the division brought about widespread violence between Hindus and Muslims and resulted in the largest mass migration in human history. The novel, composed of diary entries written by twelve year-old Nisha to her deceased mother, personalizes the ramifications of this pivotal historical decision. Readers journey with Nisha and her family across new boundaries, navigating dramatic changes in the world they once knew and loved.
Hello Summer!
by Shelley Rotner; Holiday House, 2019.
Shelley Rotner is the author and photo-illustrator of a number of exuberant, timely, and highly-regarded informational books accessible to young children. Hello Summer! is her latest, the fourth and final installment in the Hello series of photo-illustrated celebrations of the seasons of the year.
When Sue Found Sue
Written by Toni Buzzeo, illustrated by Diana Sudyka; Abrams, 2019.
When Sue Found Sue is an affirming picture book biography of paleontologist Sue Hendrickson. The young reader learns about science, exploration, archeology, paleontology, discovery, and T. rex while gaining insight into human nature—and the wisdom and joy in following your own path.
Squirrel in the Museum
written by Vivian Vande Velde, illustrated by Steve Björkman; Holiday House, 2019.
Squirrel in the Museum features Twitch the squirrel. He is curious, spontaneous, and through his humorous (squirrely) adventures in this chapter book, the young reader gains insight into science and human nature—between giggles.