“One of the miracles of elephants is that they can read your soul.”
After the accidental death of her mother, twelve-year-old Quinn is left reeling. He“One of the miracles of elephants is that they can read your soul.”
After the accidental death of her mother, twelve-year-old Quinn is left reeling. Her devoted aunt, Lizzie, decides that a two-week volunteer trip to an elephant sanctuary in Thailand is exactly what the two of them need to overcome their grief. Though Quinn is initially reluctant to dedicate herself to the physical and emotional labor of caring for these elephants, many of which have suffered abuse and trauma, she quickly begins to see the elephants as a mirror for her own struggles. After a touching encounter with the twenty-year-old elephant Sumana, Quinn starts to understand the beauty of making heartfelt connections. When a young, motherless elephant named Lee Lawa Dee enters the sanctuary, Quinn immediately feels compelled to do everything she can to help her, even if it means breaking a few rules. In helping Lee Lawa Dee rediscover the joy of living, perhaps Quinn can find some happiness of her own.
The middle grade market currently seems to be flooded with books that revolve around dealing with grief. While Elephant Touch is not necessarily unique in its themes, it effectively teaches kids about balancing empathy with their own struggles, simultaneously acknowledging their own pain and the pain of other people (and animals). However, I found it a little irritating that the protagonist constantly wants to be applauded for experiencing basic empathy. She acts like no one else cares about the elephants, even though there are characters who have dedicated their lives to this sanctuary. Despite Quinn’s pick-me attitude, she was a relatively accurate representation of the constant drama and anxiety of being a preteen. Oddly, the book feels aimed towards younger readers rather than preteens, mostly because the author writes as if children are incapable of understanding or looking up longer words. As a result, the prose frequently read like the author was telling the audience information rather than showing them. That is not to say that this book did not have some appealing characteristics, though. Quinn’s interactions with the elephants are by far the strongest, most natural part of the text. It is easy to picture them playing together and forming bonds. Greenway’s descriptions of the activities at the sanctuary also effectively demonstrate how conservation and sustainability efforts work hand in hand. Children who are curious about elephants and enjoy books about coping with difficult feelings will gravitate toward Elephant Touch.
Elephant Touch releases on September 17th, 2024.
Pine Reads Review would like to thank NetGalley, SparkPoint Studio, and She Writes Press for sending us an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Any quotes are taken from an advanced copy and may be subject to change before final publication.
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“The Franks were outsiders again, and it was just the beginning, only they didn’t know it.”
Before the Frank family started living in the Secret Annex “The Franks were outsiders again, and it was just the beginning, only they didn’t know it.”
Before the Frank family started living in the Secret Annex as the Holocaust progressed, they first had to watch their old lives fall apart piece by piece. Anne Frank was an ordinary Jewish girl, but she was also bright enough to think critically about what was going on around her. She began her classic diary in June of 1942 at the tail end of her freedom. When We Flew Away is Alice Hoffman’s imagining of Anne Frank’s life before she moved into hiding, starting when Anne was just a child experiencing worsening conditions for Jews in the Netherlands. The book explores the Frank family dynamic as they slowly come to realize that their optimism may have been misplaced and that good does not always win out over evil.
Although When We Flew Away is centered around Anne, we occasionally get to see the situation from other perspectives, like those of her parents, grandmother, and sister, Margot. I found these perspectives to be the most impactful because the actual accounts of the family members are, for the most part, lost to history. In the diary, Anne has a notoriously bad relationship with her mother, so it was nice to see Edith Frank portrayed in a more tender light, doing the best she could to protect her girls. It was heartbreaking that Otto Frank, the pillar of his daughter's strength in the diary, was portrayed as losing hope that things would get better. The incremental changes that led up to the Holocaust’s consequences were excellently and tragically depicted through poetic writing, which Anne might have appreciated. Even so, some may find the symbolism excessive, with the vicious wolves lying in wait and the repeated reference to wicked black moths both representing the evil forces of the era. Oftentimes, Anne’s vibrant personality got lost amidst the symbolism. Though the Anne described in When We Flew Away uses empathy to inform her insights, the real Anne is better known for having used her logic and linguistic skills to make observations. While the real Anne’s analytical voice is nearly impossible to recreate, the Anne in this book came across as rather quiet and passive by comparison. Even though Hoffman effectively highlights the rising feeling of helplessness among Jews during the Holocaust, the inability to capture Anne's lively spirit causes the book to be less captivating than it might have been.
When We Flew Away releases from Scholastic Press on September 17th, 2024.
Pine Reads Review would like to thank Netgalley and Scholastic Press for sending a copy in exchange for an honest review. Any quotes may be subject to change before final publication.
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“Did this place ever make you happy, Grandpa? Is this all there is?”
This wilderness-focused graphic novel for teens and tweens revolves around a prota“Did this place ever make you happy, Grandpa? Is this all there is?”
This wilderness-focused graphic novel for teens and tweens revolves around a protagonist named Ash. Ash grew up spending summer vacation at their family’s ranch in northern California, near Shasta-Trinity National Forest. They look forward to the trip every year, mainly because the ranch is where they first bonded with their grandpa Edwin and discovered their love for the environment. To Ash’s horror, the family has decided to sell the ranch following Edwin’s passing, and their visits will cease. However, Ash comes up with a crafty plan to sneak off during one final trip, tracking down their grandfather’s rumored cabin in the woods and living out their dreams of spending their days with only their dog, Chase, for company. Does Ash have the survival skills and nature knowledge they need to make it on their own?
I read Ash’s Cabin in one sitting because Jen Wang does such an excellent job keeping readers engaged and connected to the story. While Ash’s parents sometimes struggle to understand them, they are ultimately open-minded and incredibly loving. The real standout pairing of the book, however, is Chase and Ash. Their bond is incredibly evident throughout the book in the gorgeous illustrations. Chase is the definition of a loyal companion, supporting Ash unconditionally. Unfortunately, there was one heartbreaking situation where Ash handled Chase in an uncharacteristically selfish way. However, that was just one small flaw of this book in a sea of positive attributes. One of the aspects of the book that I appreciated was how the author blacked out the name whenever Ash was deadnamed by other characters, acknowledging Ash’s past and the ill treatment they receive while also finding a way to honor and respect them. Ash’s entire gender identity arc was handled very empathetically. I also valued the recognition for Native American cultures and knowledge, which made the book feel more educational without detracting from the narrative. Another standout was the heavy-hitting messages about how important it is to find the right people who are willing to organize and fight for the environment. Though Ash seems like a classic misunderstood teen at times, their passion for nature and sustainability really shines through in a unique and realistic way.
Ash’s Cabin releases on August 13th, 2024.
Pine Reads Review would like to thank NetGalley and First Second for sending us an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Any quotes are taken from an advanced copy and may be subject to change before final publication.
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“How could she miss what she could hardly remember?”
June Sparrow, a wealthy orphan from New York City, is devastated to learn on the night of her twel“How could she miss what she could hardly remember?”
June Sparrow, a wealthy orphan from New York City, is devastated to learn on the night of her twelfth birthday that her financial manager has been involved in investment fraud and lost her entire fortune. She is forced to move to Red Bank, South Dakota, to live with her estranged aunt Bridget with only the clothes on her back and pet miniature pig Indigo Bunting. June has never been outside the big city, and her aunt is less than welcoming. However, she discovers her mother’s Penny Book that speaks of “The Big One,” a valuable 1943 copper-alloy penny that would allow June to resume her life of luxury. However, June and Indigo’s only clue is a cryptic list of riddles. Along the way, June will be forced to learn more about her mysterious past and adapt to life on the farm.
One of my hobbies during middle school was collecting coins. Although I never found anything valuable, reading June Sparrow and the Million-Dollar Penny would have been right up my alley. The main character, June Sparrow, is persistent in her pursuit of returning to the life she longs for in New York City. June is forced to question her past, present, and future and is not pleased with everything she learns. This determination and grit can inspire young readers to follow their dreams and passions. Removed from her life of luxury, June is able to grow and starts to question things she never considered before, such as unemployment, family ties, and friendship. While I enjoyed June’s journey to find “The Big One,” arguably the star of the story is her pet miniature pig, Indigo Bunting. Indigo is more than just a pet; he is June’s confident best friend. He is also more intelligent than any cat or dog and always knows what June thinks and feels. I especially enjoyed the illustrations before each chapter and those within. Readers will love seeing Indigo dressed up for the opera and as a farmer! The ending is particularly touching and well done. June Sparrow and the Million-Dollar Penny is the perfect heartwarming read for fellow coin collectors that features an adorable miniature pig.
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“There’s nowhere you can’t go. Nothing you can’t do.”
Described as a combination of The Great British Bake Off and Knives Out, this middle-grade novel “There’s nowhere you can’t go. Nothing you can’t do.”
Described as a combination of The Great British Bake Off and Knives Out, this middle-grade novel follows bestfriends Laila and Lucy who are desperate to attend esteemed boarding school Sunderland Academy that is known for creating the most successful individuals in any field, from journalism to baking. Laila, who has loved baking since she was a child, knows the only way she can continue going to school with her best friend is by winning a competition and the full-ride scholarship Sunderland is offering. Lucy, on the other hand, has secured her position as a promising journalist and is invited to report the outcome of the competition in order to apply for a Sunderland scholarship. When a judge collapses during the competition after tasting Laila’s cookie showpiece, all signs point to foul play. Now, Laila and Lucy must work together to identify the real culprit before anyone else gets hurt.
While I loved many things about this book, there were a few choices the authors made that took away from my enjoyment of the story. My primary issue is with the pacing and flow of the storyline. Inserted between chapters were journal entries from Laila and Lucy, which, while entertaining, seemed to interrupt the main story. The timeline was also confusing and difficult to follow since it was out of chronological order. I also found the characters to be a bit juvenile for their ages. Despite being a middle grade story, some of their actions felt more representative of people younger than the intended ages of twelve to fourteen. On the other hand, I very much enjoyed how both main characters were fleshed out in their chapters. Laila and Lucy, though incredibly different, were equally well-developed, which can be difficult to do when there are two authors writing different characters. I also think the murder mystery was maintained well through the story and isn’t necessarily obvious. There are plenty of red herrings planted throughout the story that can lead readers to a false conclusion, which is always fun in mysteries! The reveal and the subsequent explanation of their motive made sense, which is always a necessity when writing a good mystery. Overall, I think this book is one that will entice a lot of young mystery readers and fans of cozy novels.
Pine Reads Review would like to thank Books Forward and Quill Tree Publishing for sending us an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Any quotes are taken from an advanced copy and may be subject to change before final publication.
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“I just missed and missed and kept on missing her. Missing is not a thing you can ever run out of. That’s the truth and a point-blank fact.”
After her “I just missed and missed and kept on missing her. Missing is not a thing you can ever run out of. That’s the truth and a point-blank fact.”
After her best friend moves to another state and her grandmother passes away, ten-year-old Beatrice Cornwell is left with eight small cats and five huge wishes. Most of all, Bea wants to become a “Tin Man” and stop feeling all the intense emotions she has been bombarded with every day since her mother was forced to take on the now-struggling salon that her grandmother formerly ran. She doesn’t even care if she must lose her happiness alongside her grief. To uncover the best way to make her wishes come true, Bea begrudgingly teams up with the goofy new kid in town, Caleb Chernavachin. With the eight cats in tow, the two search relentlessly for a magical solution to all of Bea’s problems, facing bullies, witches, and adults who just don’t seem to care.
I picked up this book for the cats, but I stayed for the character relationships. Both Beatrice and Caleb felt like actual kids with real personalities and flaws. I was deeply invested in the friends-to-lovers arc between Beatrice’s mother and Felix, a neighboring shop owner. Felix’s interactions with Bea felt very genuine, kind, and supportive, which Bea truly needed since her mother was very preoccupied. However, the relationships between the characters were not enough to make this a great book. The author was perpetually trying to do too much. Bea’s five wishes varied drastically in their significance and probability, and it never felt like Bea could figure out her priorities. Furthermore, none of these problems were resolved until the very end of the novel, where they were quickly and easily fixed or dismissed entirely. The pacing was off, and I felt like the author underestimated the intelligence of readers. The many attempts at quirky characters and phrases also detracted from this book. The phrase “the truth and a point-blank fact” occurred twenty-three times! While I love a distinctive character, Bea’s repetitiveness was exhausting. Lastly, I was confused whether this book was intended to feel realistic or fantastical. There are stories where realism can be blurred in an engaging way, but this narrative did not achieve that effect. While the characters are intriguing, this middle grade novel left me feeling unsatisfied, largely due to the undefined magic system and lack of character growth.
The Wonderful Wishes of B. releases on June 4th, 2024.
Pine Reads Review would like to thank NetGalley and Random House Books for Young Readers for sending us an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Any quotes are taken from an advanced copy and may be subject to change before final publication.
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“I didn’t say, ‘I want this and I want that.’ It’s on your greed, that I grew fat.”
One morning, a colossal brown cloud of pollution appears above Mum“I didn’t say, ‘I want this and I want that.’ It’s on your greed, that I grew fat.”
One morning, a colossal brown cloud of pollution appears above Mumbai. It engulfs the sky, triggering a media frenzy. Alongside the reporters, climatologists Vidisha and Bidisha Mehta investigate while the government plans a hairbrained stunt involving a Bollywood star and a giant vacuum. Amid rising temperatures and frustrated by adult incaction, 13-year-old friends Amni, Tammy, Mithil, and Andrew launch a campaign to save their city, and in the process, discover the power of small actions.
The re-release of 2019’s A Cloud Called Bhura is a great chance for readers to revisit or discover (like me!) Bijal Vachharajani’s incredibly important, masterfully written cautionary tale. Vachharajani’s skill lies in her adeptness at inhabiting the various characters of the story. Her simple objective descriptions and moments of interiority offer a look into each character’s unique worldview. Their differing perspectives show the disproportionate effects of catastrophe and underscores the immediacy of the threat of climate change. However, Vachharajani’s unique sense of humor and propellent narrative energy are at the heart of what makes A Cloud Called Bhura important. Amni’s story shows how quickly pollution can destroy lives but also how quickly young people can enact change together. I’m glad that we’ll be seeing this one back on shelves soon.
A Cloud Called Bhura: Climate Champions to the Rescue releases from Blackstone Publishing on May 14th, 2024.
Pine Reads Review would like to thank NetGalley and Blackstone Publishing for sending a copy in exchange for an honest review. Any quotes may be subject to change before final publication.
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“Fixing was for houses. Solving was for puzzles. Maybe neither of those words applied to people.”
Twelve-year-old Perigee has been hearing stories abou“Fixing was for houses. Solving was for puzzles. Maybe neither of those words applied to people.”
Twelve-year-old Perigee has been hearing stories about their dad’s childhood in the Eklund Puzzle House since they were old enough to understand. Perigee’s grandparents built and designed the house to be an escape room-themed bed and breakfast with unique challenges for patrons to solve during their stay. In a last-ditch effort to “solve” their dad, who seems unhappy, Perigee orchestrates a trip to the Puzzle House, which involves meeting their estranged grandmother for the first time. However, everything is different than Perigee planned when they arrive—from a cold and distant grandma to a house that is literally tearing itself apart. With the help of Lily, the daughter of their grandma’s friend, Perigee must solve the house’s remaining puzzles despite their grandma’s protests. With their work already cut out for them, can Perigee figure out how to cure their dad—and possibly even themself—along the way?
Puzzleheart offers readers a little bit of everything: mystery, family drama, adventure, and magic. I really like how immersive the puzzles Perigee and Lily solve throughout the book are. The included drawings and detailed narration allow readers to actively participate and be a part of the action. Similarly, author Jenn Reese doesn’t shy away from the more intense aspects of dangerous situations, including panic and injury. Some of the safety protocols and the emphasis on staying calm and vigilant during stressful situations could be useful to readers. I appreciated the perseverance displayed throughout, as well as seeing a parent empower their child to succeed. However, the true star of the show was Perigee’s grandmother, Savannah Ekland. Since the death of her beloved husband, the Puzzle House has been in disarray, and Savannah lost who she was and won’t let herself enjoy the things she used to. Her journey is captivating, and I think we can all take something away from the sentiment that when someone we love dies, it doesn’t mean everything we love is lost with them. The exploration of whether it is the parent or the child (or both) who care for one another’s mental well-being was also touching. Meanwhile, personifying the Puzzle House by including chapters written from its perspective successfully added a touch of magic to keep the narrative lighthearted. Puzzleheart is the perfect read for those who love solving puzzles and watching the pieces click together to mend damaged souls.
Pine Reads Review would like to thank NetGalley and Henry Holt and Co. for sending us an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Any quotes are taken from an advanced copy and may be subject to change before final publication.
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It’s only the second week of school, and already everything seems to be changing for 13-year-old Mia Millig“But we’re 13. It’s time to grow up…right?”
It’s only the second week of school, and already everything seems to be changing for 13-year-old Mia Milligan. Her best friend, Addy, is hanging out with popular girl Courtney and pressuring Mia about things like status and boys. Fortunately, Mia learns that her best friend from science camp, Tariq, is moving into town. She envisions everything being just like camp, but Tariq has…changed. Mia suddenly finds herself developing a crush on him and feeling hurt that he doesn’t want to spend more time with her. However, the duo team up with artist Kinsey and goofball Evan to build a robot for the Science Olympics. Nonetheless, not everything goes to plan between a broken camera and tangled emotions as Mia and Kinsey’s friendship grows at the expense of Mia’s relationship with Addy, and the new friends tip-toe around their feelings about Tariq.
Middle school is a challenging and confusing time when things start to change whether you are ready or not (and sometimes just because you think they should change). Beth Fantaskey does an incredible job of capturing how it feels to be stuck in this transition phase in her debut graphic novel, Wires Crossed. Although Mia’s story is not inherently unique—she is growing apart from childhood friends while making new friends, suddenly attracted to an old friend, and embarrassed by the quirks of her family—her journey provides needed relatability to readers. Wires Crossed not only explores how and when we “grow up” but also whether we have to. This is a question that left me contemplating throughout the novel and even after. While I am past the turmoil of middle school, this idea of moving to the next stage or becoming a “real” adult is currently weighing on my mind. Growing up doesn’t look the same or mean the same thing to anyone, and the pressure to do so can be damaging. We need more stories like Wires Crossed to remind us that there is no one-size-fits-all solution to this dilemma and that life can only be navigated one step at a time.
Pine Reads Review would like to thank NetGalley and HarperCollins Publishers for sending us an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Any quotes are taken from an advanced copy and may be subject to change upon final publication.
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“He was always saying stuff like, there’s way too much meanness out there Coyote; you gotta put as much kindness into the universe as you can and that“He was always saying stuff like, there’s way too much meanness out there Coyote; you gotta put as much kindness into the universe as you can and that kind of garbage. Which, I’m also big enough to acknowledge, is not actually garbage.”
Coyote Lost and Found is a stand-alone sequel to Gemeinhart’s previous work, The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise. This middle-grade novel follows an eccentric thirteen-year-old named Coyote after she discovers her mother’s ashes. Coyote takes it upon herself to make right of the ashes that her father had hidden from her in their road trip bus, by suggesting that they finally lay her to rest by scattering her ashes. The only issue is that Coyote doesn’t know where her mother wanted her ashes to be scattered and may be keeping this bit of information a secret from her father, Rodeo. Coyote and her father must embark on a bus ride across America, picking up old and new friends along the way, so Coyote can finally let go of her mother while learning how to hold onto her even tighter.
Coyote Lost and Found is a tragically realistic look at grief, or, in Coyote’s words, “emotional nausea,” wrapped up in an exciting cross-country adventure. The book is unafraid to make statements on life, loss, love, and even Covid-19, making the book feel very mature, while remaining in the lens of a quirky, slightly lost thirteen-year-old. This book can be enjoyed by a wide audience, as the story feels timeless and genuinely offers some serious subversions of expectations. Coyote is a refreshingly spunky character who is far from flawless. She is unbelievably generous and kind but also insecure, impulsive, judgmental, and really embodies what it means to be a teenager. Gemeinhart expertly crafts this book with enough lightheartedness and humor to balance out the immense trauma and grief that many of the characters feel throughout. His writing is fast-paced and filled to the brim with creative, and at times, dark-humored metaphors for life and how it feels to be alone. The book has a large cast of lovable and diverse characters, and Gemeinhart builds tension throughout by keeping them confined with their secrets and one another on the road trip bus, Yager. Overall, Coyote Lost and Found is an excellent adventure tale that keeps readers guessing what will happen next until the very end. I highly recommend this novel to everyone, but especially to tweens and adults who may feel lost in life, as it offers many cathartic moments that will leave you both emotionally wrecked and undeniably happy.
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“Chloe feels the wind in her face, the mane in her fingers, and the hope in her chest. She keeps her head up and her gaze facing forward. It feels lik“Chloe feels the wind in her face, the mane in her fingers, and the hope in her chest. She keeps her head up and her gaze facing forward. It feels like the world is watching. I’m here, world. This is me.”
Chloe’s life takes a dramatic turn one stormy night when a crew of mythical creatures barge into her family home. These magical intruders draw Chloe and her incredibly anxious father into a magical quest to return to their homeland, the whimsical world of Brynmoor, and save Adrina, a mermaid who is suffering from being so far from water. The eccentric cast of characters finds themselves involved in a variety of antics and adventures on their return to Brynmoor, which can only be accessed by a hidden portal. Throughout this quest, Chloe and her father rescue not only these mythical beings but also themselves; they are forced to come to terms with the unresolved issues that have affected their lives and their relationship to one another.
From the very first page, Wayfinders drew me in, and I felt so immersed in the story that at times it was like I was watching a movie. The book effectively balanced heart-pounding action with heartwarming relationships, and I appreciated Chick’s portrayal of the healing process. As the story progresses, it becomes clear that this adventure is just as beneficial for Chloe and her father as is for the characters trying to return home. Their relationship is strained following a riding accident that led to the death of Chloe’s horse and the intensification of Chloe’s father’s anxiety. Chloe constantly expresses annoyance with her father and his anxious/obsessive-compulsive tendencies, but she is very attuned to his emotions and concerns. The understanding the two have of one another shows that no matter how much loved ones might get on one’s nerves, a profound care for them will always exist. The courage these two show in a myriad of ways is truly inspiring for readers of all ages. From the beauty of these character depictions stems one of my only critiques of the novel: in some cases, I wish certain characters and/or plot points had been explored in further detail. Elements of character backstory were sprinkled throughout the piece but often never elaborated on, leaving me wanting to know more about the world Chick built. Overall, I appreciated the full-circle resolution of the novel, which demonstrated that, while healing is not linear, it is possible with the help of a strong and caring support system.
I would recommend this book to all middle-grade readers. Wayfinders contains a vivid cast of characters that tell a compelling story of love, family, friendship, and courage.
Pine Reads Review would like to thank Blackstone Publishing for sending us an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Any quotes are taken from an advanced copy and may be subject to change before final publication.
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“We saw her worth when others did not. We’ve helped her, and now she’s going to help us, help the whole country. That’s how all healing begins. With r“We saw her worth when others did not. We’ve helped her, and now she’s going to help us, help the whole country. That’s how all healing begins. With respect. With kindness. With love.”
Sona is a Malech in Devia, a land that was conquered by the Malechs centuries ago. The Malechs banned music in an effort to stop the Devans, who are native to Devia, from using their magic. Despite this, Sona still hears music everywhere, even when others don’t, and her affinity for it helps her navigate and understand the world. Her sympathy for animals leads to her taking in a wolf pup, who she suspects to be one of the sacred magical beasts of Devia. After a Hunter shows up at her house in search of the wolf and a close family member falls ill, she embarks on a quest to protect the pup and save her loved one. With the help of a Devan boy, Raag, she searches for the nectar of life and uncovers the truth about the Malechian empire, choosing to fight for what she believes is right.
Sona and the Golden Beasts is a heartfelt story about the power of love and kindness where two kids journey to save the kingdom and the family member they love. Rajani LaRocca masterfully weaved together a tale that was both magical and revealing, tackling the harsh truths of colonization and imperialism. Inspired by the British occupation of India, this book tackled the complex feelings of a girl who has ties to both the Malech, who colonized Devian, and the Devans, who have been suffering under the Malech’s rule for centuries. Sona is so compassionate, and it is her kindness that means the most in the end. I feel like that simple message speaks volumes, and I think the lessons in this book are extremely valuable for middle grade readers and adults alike. The incorporation of magical animals like Swara, the wolf pup, and Willa, Sona’s pony, was a great touch, and they were honestly my favorite characters. While I loved the world-building and the important themes LaRocca touched on, I did feel that some parts of the book felt rushed. There were also some instances where Sona and Raag seemed to dismiss things or forgive each other very easily when I felt there should’ve been a bit more of a discussion between them. However, I still think it was a magical read and a great book for middle grade readers.
Pine Reads Review would like to thank NetGalley, Rajani LaRocca, and Quill Tree Books for sending us an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Any quotes are taken from an advanced copy and may be subject to change before final publication.
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“She was a heroine not just to the most powerful goddess of all, but to her friends.”
Ava has always struggled to manage her emotions, even when her mo“She was a heroine not just to the most powerful goddess of all, but to her friends.”
Ava has always struggled to manage her emotions, even when her mom gives her techniques. However, when she accidentally sends a classmate to the hospital, she and her brother, Jax, are whisked away to Accademia del Forte, a boarding school in Venice, Italy. Ava is excited to learn Greek gods are her teachers but nervous when she discovers she and her classmates are all descendants of Greek monsters. Ava soon discovers that the Accademia is full of dark secrets. With the help of her friends, she embarks on an adventure that changes everything she thought about mythology.
When I picked up this book, I thought it was going to be a mix of Harry Potter and Percy Jackson, but it proved to be so much more than that. The story explores Greek mythology through a different lens and shows multiple sides to every story. I liked how fast-paced and captivating the book was; I was on the edge of my seat through the whole story as I finished it in one sitting. However, there were occasions when it felt rushed. There was too little backstory at times, so I was lost. For example, the adventure the children go on was entertaining and exciting, but I wanted more buildup and more context. I enjoyed how multiple characters questioned whether the myths they were taught were the whole truth. I loved the emphasis on the power of friendship and female empowerment because most Greek mythology children’s books I have read have had a male protagonist. I encourage everyone who loves Greek mythology to read this book because it changes the narrative of what you think Greek mythology is.
Pine Reads Review would like to thank Clarion Books and NetGalley for sending us an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Any quotes are taken from an advanced copy and may be subject to change before final publication.
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Darcy is having a hard time adjusting to her new home—everyone speaks differently, and she no longer sees any of her f“Happiness never lasts forever.”
Darcy is having a hard time adjusting to her new home—everyone speaks differently, and she no longer sees any of her friends. In an attempt to get Darcy out of her room, her mom sends her to the grocery store. On her way, Darcy is drawn to a mysterious shop called The Happy Shop. The store is filled with glowing jars, and, in her exploration, she accidentally breaks one. Sisters Flora and Frida, who own the shop, agree to let her help out after school to pay for the damage. Darcy is a natural, quickly learning how to capture good feelings in the magical jars. However, she is confused when the jar she gives her mom wears off, and her mom starts feeling defeated and regrets uprooting Darcy and herself to a new, unfamiliar place. Can Darcy figure out how to cheer up her mom and learn what happiness really is?
The Happy Shop is an uplifting story about creating and sharing happiness with others. I particularly enjoyed the graphic novel format. The shops also reminded me of the magic found in Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley. Although Darcy is the main character, the real stars are the sisters Flora and Frida. Flora is very kind and collects the inventory for the shop, while Frida is cold and handles the finances. Darcy helps the sisters save their shop and raises many interesting points about what happiness is along the way. Darcy questions whether happiness is simply being grateful for not being unhappy. She theorizes that collecting bad feelings might actually make people happier because they would help people appreciate the things they do have. As a psychology major, this is something I continued to ponder long after turning the last page. The adorable happy jars also help to remind readers to enjoy the little special moments in life, such as savoring the first perfect bite of ice cream, watching an adorable puppy fall asleep in your lap, and walking out in the warm sunshine after the rain finally stops. Pick up a copy of The Happy Shop to be whisked away into the magic of happiness.
Pine Reads Review would like to thank NetGalley and Oni Press for sending us an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Any quotes are taken from an advanced copy and may be subject to change upon final publication.
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“How could anybody destroy a family’s home? Why does this happen, over and over again? Doesn’t anyone care?”
Ida has too many problems. The deadline of“How could anybody destroy a family’s home? Why does this happen, over and over again? Doesn’t anyone care?”
Ida has too many problems. The deadline of her final project presentation (which she has to give in front of the entire school!) is rapidly approaching, but she hasn’t touched it yet. Her classmates think that she’s a terrorist just because she’s Palestinian and Muslim. Her parents won’t tell her much about why they immigrated to the United States. And strangest of all: every time she bites into her late aunt’s green olives, she is transported between life in the US and an alternate reality in her parents’ village in Palestine. Life in Palestine comes with its own set of difficulties, but for the first time, she feels like she truly belongs somewhere, on this land where generations of her family have lived. Ida is content in this other life until she learns of plans of Israeli bulldozers coming to knock down yet another house in the village. With problems popping up wherever she goes, Ida wonders if she can face her fears and make a difference in both of her homes.
Geared towards middle schoolers, but perfect for readers of all ages—especially for anyone who is new to Palestinian history—Ida in the Middle blends historical fiction with a dash of magical realism that doesn’t take away from the gravity of the book’s themes. Ida is an easily lovable main character, and her initial struggles with fitting in at school, finding her passion, and anxiety with public speaking sets the scene for a promising coming-of-age story. Not only does she have to grapple with school and growing up, but she finds herself transported to Palestine via magical green olive, where she faces the realities of living under Israeli settler-colonialism. Murad draws from the last 80 years of Palestinian history and important current events as she describes Ida’s alternate reality: a friend’s house is about to be knocked down, another friend struggles to receive medical care, and she and her aunt are harassed at a checkpoint in West Jerusalem. Despite this brutal occupation, Palestine is where Ida finds her voice and discovers how much good can come of a single brave action. She takes her newfound knowledge of her family’s (and Palestine’s) history back to the States, where discussions with friends, family, and teachers cultivate her newly discovered passion: the Palestinian fight for liberation. Ida’s journey to find the bravery to speak up is an ode to how knowledge brings confidence and passion, how food keeps a culture alive and fans the flames of solidarity, and how oppression can never fully dismantle the strength of a united community. Ida in the Middle refuses to be a passive, demoralized story that quietly shuffles Palestine off into the history books; rather, the book is a defiant reverence of Palestine as a country that very much still exists. It is a story of hope: of Ida raising her voice for her people’s freedom, of you, the reader, following in her footsteps to fight for justice, for the right of Palestinians to live on their own land.
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“You can’t blame the house. It had done its best.”
The transition from elementary to middle school means a lot of changes for Violet Hart. Her friend g“You can’t blame the house. It had done its best.”
The transition from elementary to middle school means a lot of changes for Violet Hart. Her friend group is evolving, her teenage sister is suddenly full of angst, and their growing family means moving to a bigger house where Violet gets stuck with the creepy attic bedroom. Amidst the upheaval, Violet consoles herself with the notion that change is acceptable and that the wallpaper in her room isn’t moving on its own at night. But when she is struck by a mysterious illness and confined to her bed, Violet must face off against her own maladies and the ones lurking in the shadows.
Inspired by Charlotte Perkins Gilman’s 1892 novella The Yellow Wallpaper, Not Quite a Ghost is an incredibly unique take on the modern ghost story. Ursus’ deft prose blurs the line between the supernatural and reality. Much like Violet, the reader must discern the truth for themselves, making for an uneasy reading experience. Ursu also masterfully weaves in the The Yellow Wallpaper’s message of autonomy and self expression while sticking to the pacing and style of a middle grade novel. For the most part, the novel is a relatable coming of age story that accurately depicts the anxieties we all feel while going through a significant life change. While Violet’s experiences are acute at times, she also asks the questions we all ask ourselves at her age like “Do my friends even like me?” or “Will anything ever be the same?” These moments feel true to life, but there are also moments that are genuinely unsettling, especially with information provided in the author’s note that brings the story’s message into full fidelity. This book is a must read for middle grade readers looking for a Stephen King-esque thrill.
Pine Reads Review would like to thank NetGalley and HarperCollins for sending us an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Any quotes are taken from an advanced copy and may be subject to change before final publication.
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“It had been a very exciting week for all of them. They decided to relax and have fun before the next adventure found them!”
Rishvin and Jaanvi are sib“It had been a very exciting week for all of them. They decided to relax and have fun before the next adventure found them!”
Rishvin and Jaanvi are siblings and, with the help of their friends, heroes. In a collection of short stories, the siblings and their friends go on a series of interconnected adventures. From throwing a birthday party to taking down a counterfeiting operation, the tales are a whirlwind of mystery and escapades that showcase the diversity and closeness of youthful friendships.
When I chose to read Rishvin and Jaanvi: Mystery at the Fort and Other Stories, I didn’t know what to expect because I don’t typically read middle-grade books or short story collections, but I’m so glad I picked up this one. I loved the sibling dynamic of Rishvin and Jaanvi because it reminded me of Jack and Annie’s relationship from the Magic Tree House series. The siblings use each other’s strengths to benefit everyone and try to help each other with their weaknesses. I also enjoyed the friendships between the other children who live in the same apartment complex as the siblings. The story also incorporates many parts of Indian culture since it takes place in India. I learned many things about how life works in a place across the world from me, like how they respect elders by calling them “Aunt” and “Uncle” even if they aren’t related by blood. One thing I disliked is that some of the dialogue seemed stiff and didn’t sound like middle-grade children. For example, children used words like “vying” and “respite.” I didn’t think kids would use those words. Overall, I enjoyed the mystery, adventure, and Indian culture, and I will seek out any other books Aromal Mithra writes.
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“We all say and do things we wish we hadn’t. That doesn’t make us bad. It makes us human. What matters is what we choose to do afterward. A little det“We all say and do things we wish we hadn’t. That doesn’t make us bad. It makes us human. What matters is what we choose to do afterward. A little determination to make things right can go a long way.”
Hope and Gordon Smith live with their mom, facing eviction from the motel they live at now that she is unemployed. After Gordon finds out that their dad was a member of the Winterton family, he is determined to make a connection with them. Hope despises rich people―the Wintertons being some of the worst in her eyes―but she agrees to enter their annual spelling bee for the prize money. They go to the Winterton Chalet where they compete against their relatives in hopes of winning, but they get caught up in a mystery that puts money and secrets on the line.
The Winterton Deception, at its core, is about first impressions and second chances. As with most rich families, there is a lot of bad blood and misunderstandings that have caused everyone to become divided. When Jane Winterton, Hope’s estranged grandmother, died, she knew all of her children, and grandchildren, were struggling. In an attempt to bring the family together, she created a whole plot to find a missing Jane Austen manuscript, and every family member, desperate for some of their inheritance money, went in search of it. I always love when there is one person orchestrating everything, and the fact that Jane was dead just made her mystery even more genius. It reminded me of The Inheritance Games in that way, which I loved. Johnson masterfully balanced two essential storylines: the spelling bee and the mystery of the missing manuscript. Both were equally important to the story, and they each contributed to the heartfelt resolution between the family. Hope Smith, who I honestly disliked in the beginning, learned that not all rich people are bad. She showcased so much personal growth, which I really appreciated. Each Winterton had to learn to forgive each other, and themselves, and I enjoyed how the mystery and the spelling bee played a vital role in that outcome. Not only was the mystery so exciting, with twists and turns I didn’t always see coming, but it was essential to the relationships between the Wintertons, creating a beautiful ending that focused on forgiveness and fresh starts.
Overall, this was an amazing mystery and a heartfelt story that I highly recommend for middle-grade and YA readers alike, especially if you like Jane Austen.
Pine Reads Review would like to thank NetGalley, Janet Sumner Johnson, and Pixel+Ink for sending us an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Any quotes are taken from an advanced copy and may be subject to change before final publication.
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“I had to get revenge. I just didn’t know how frightening my revenge would be.”
Amy despises her little brother, Arnie, with a passion. He’s mean and s“I had to get revenge. I just didn’t know how frightening my revenge would be.”
Amy despises her little brother, Arnie, with a passion. He’s mean and self-centered, always playing pranks on her and her friends. Her parents have tried talking to him about his behavior, but between attempting to find jobs and struggling with money, it’s not at the forefront of their minds. Lately, however, Arnie has been getting on everyone’s nerves, including his parents, and Amy is at her breaking point. One night at a sleepover, Amy and her friends watch a slime tutorial. She gets a devilish idea to pour slime on him during his birthday party–an action she would soon regret.
The book starts off a little slow, but as you keep reading, the pace does pick up. I find those types of books are always the best written. I liked that the author wrote sibling rivalry so well. Arnie is a frustrating character, and, personally, I love that about him. He doesn’t have many redeemable qualities, but when he actually puts effort into caring for other people, he’s so sweet he’ll melt your heart. I also loved Amy and Arnie’s characterizations. Both have had to deal with neglect from their parents and have coped with it in different ways. Arnie acts out for attention while Amy keeps to herself and ignores her family. The adolescent characters in this book act and sound like adolescent characters. The atmosphere of this book was well done. I was creeped out at some parts and the descriptions made me feel uneasy, which is perfect for the genre of the book. The scenes where Arnie becomes the villain of the story seemed a little rushed, and it was hard to keep up. The ending did fall flat for me and left some questions unanswered. The twist at the end was just okay, nothing groundbreaking. However, this was a fun, light spooky read that I highly recommend.
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Jett Jamison tries to be the perfect planner for herself and her family. Growing up amid chaos and a lack of schedule has only made Jett want to accouJett Jamison tries to be the perfect planner for herself and her family. Growing up amid chaos and a lack of schedule has only made Jett want to account for every minute of the day. She relies on one hundred thirty-three to-do lists to get her by, and yet, she can’t quiet down the voices in her head. The only thing Jett wishes for is peace, and so far, her lists aren’t helping. When Jett befriends Sister Gia, a nun in the local church convent, she is introduced to the mysterious book, Resurrecting the Dragon. Nobody knows who wrote the book, and it has been disappearing from local libraries. Jett believes the book will help her stop the voices in her head, so she is determined to read the book and stop the censorship of it.
Jett Jamison is a wonderfully crafted 6th grade character that I ended up relating to and loving. As she works with Sister G, Jett finally reads a copy of Resurrecting the Dragon and discovers that the book was meant to empower survivors of sexual assault after they read the book and share their own stories in the blank pages provided at the end. Many in the town believe that the topic of sexual assault is only for adults and should not be mentioned around children, leading them to slander and censor the book. This well-crafted parallel to modern society truly struck me, and also brought a necessary awareness to the harms of censorship. Jett experiences true growth throughout the book, not only by speaking her truth, but also in making friends, trusting others, and learning how to manage her own feelings. This book approached the topic of sexual assault delicately and inexplicitly, but that does not stop it from having a heavy impact on readers. Jett is empowered once she confides in Sister G about her own sexual assault and shares her story with her parents and younger brothers. She even creates the Brave Girls Book and Garden Club to have discussions with other survivors and friends. The more that women and girls feel they can share their own stories like Jett, the less daunting these conversations become, and, I hope, the more awareness we can bring to sexual assault. Jett Jamison is a truly remarkable character, and this is the kind of book that I, and many other girls, could have desperately used in middle school.
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