Staff Picks Youth Fiction
July 2021
The Lonely Heart of Maybelle Lane
by Kate O'Shaughnessy
Eleven-year-old Maybelle has been raised by a single mother. She only has a recording of her father’s voice. When she hears that same voice on the radio and discovers that her father is a DJ, she decides to go in search of him. The somewhat stiff next-door neighbor offers to drive her and the local bully hitches a ride as well to round out the diverse cast of characters.
This book is available in the library and on OverDrive/Libby as an ebook and e audiobook
Recommended by: Becky McCormack, Youth Services Assistant Manager
Posted in: Youth Fiction
Root Magic
by Eden Royce
This book begins with the funeral of twins Jezebel (Jez) and Jay’s grandmother. Soon after this the twins turn eleven years old and their uncle tells them he’s going to teach them root magic. They knew their grandmother had special powers but didn’t think they did, too. Add in a harassing police officer and a boo hag and the excitement mounts and the adventures begin.
This book is available in the library and on OverDrive/Libby as an ebook and e audiobook.
Recommended by: Becky McCormack, Youth Services Assistant Manager
Posted in: Youth Fiction
Prairie Lotus
by Linda Sue Park
It’s 1880 and Hanna and her father leave California in search of a new start after the death of Hanna’s mother. Will the people in the Dakota Territory be welcoming? Hanna is used to being shunned because she is half Chinese, but more than anything she wants to go to school and sew dresses for her father’s new shop. When she is given the opportunity to do both, trouble emerges. With the help of friends, Hanna does her best to be true to herself, honor her mother’s memory, and stand up for what is right. This historical fiction read also addresses modern day issues around prejudice and racism.
This book is available in the library and on OverDrive/Libby as an ebook and e audiobook.
Recommended by: Stephanie Thomas, Youth Services Preschool Services Coordinator
Posted in: Youth Fiction
Starfish
by Lisa Fipps
A middle grade novel written in verse, Starfish shines a light on the effects of relentless bullying, while highlighting how stereotypical judgments shape a person’s view of themselves. Ellie, a middle schooler, living by her own set of “fat girl rules” has been bullied about her weight ever since making a huge splash while wearing a whale swimsuit. Ellie is ridiculed about her weight everywhere she goes. She’s not safe at school, the mall, or restaurants. Sadly, she’s not even safe from judgement in her own home. When her best friend moves away, Ellie has never felt more alone. Luckily, an accepting family moves in next door. Ellie’s resilience and wit are admirable and as a reader you’ll truly understand how ignorance affects us all.
This book is available at the library and on OverDrive/Libby as an ebook and e audiobook.
Recommended by: Malorie Carpenter, Youth Services Assistant
Posted in: Youth Fiction
June 2021
Bear’s Bicycle
by Laura Renauld
Bear wants to participate in the Summer Scoot for bicycles but will he be ready in time? He gets a book from the library, Learn to Ride in Five Easy Steps, and thinks he’s ready to go. After a number of falls he realizes the most important step is PRACTICE!
Recommended by: Becky McCormack, Youth Services Assistant Manager
Posted in: Youth Fiction
G My Name Is Girl: A Song of Celebration from Argentina to Zambia
by Dawn Masi
Embark in an alphabetical journey around the world with this wonderful picture book that highlights not only the ABCs, but the beauty of female relationships, countries, as well as names and ways of life in different cultures. Masi’s soft-toned and friendly illustrations invite young readers, for a brief instance, to imagine what it is like to live in other parts of the world. Kids will enjoy finding the countries on the map at the back of the book. The relationships featured on each page are very relatable and celebrate positive and uplifting experiences that reflect diverse ethnicities, abilities and circumstances. Empowering and inspiring for all ages.
Recommended by: Fanny Camargo, Youth Services Reference Librarian I
Posted in: Youth Fiction
Burt the Beetle Doesn’t Bite!
by Ashley Spires
Burt is a June Beetle who shares his backyard home with thousands of other awesome insects with all kinds of special abilities. Some bite, some stink, some are super strong! And Burt? Beyond flailing his legs in the air when trapped on his back, or falling in love with lightbulbs, Burt can’t seem to find his special ability. When he happens upon his talented friends trapped in a spider web, can Burt free them with nothing more than his own ability and love of hugs? A cute, funny, and sweet early reader graphic novel.
Recommended by: Stephanie Thomas, Youth Services Preschool Services Coordinator
Posted in: Youth Fiction
I’m a Gluten-Sniffing Service Dog
by Michal Babay
Chewie, an energetic poodle, is in training to become a gluten-sniffing service dog. It’s really important that he focus and graduate training school so he can protect his person, Alice, from gluten that can cause her to get very sick because she has Celiac disease. Chewie is working hard, but he can’t help but get distracted by bugs! Squirrels! Pizza! Can Chewie push past his distractions to become the best service dog for Alice? A cute and informative read about the many ways service dogs can help their humans.
Recommended by: Stephanie Thomas, Youth Services Preschool Services Coordinator
Posted in: Youth Fiction
On the Other Side of the Forest
by Nadine Robert
No one in the village dares to enter the forest that surrounds Arthur’s home. The forest is dark and people say it is filled with scary things. But Arthur’s dad is not scared, he is curious. Dad has a magnificent idea which brings the villagers together in a way that they’ve never been before. A tower, a storm, and a celebration will lead you to discover what is on the other side of the forest! Winner of the Harry Black Picture Book Award, this book will flood you with feel good, nostalgia as you turn each beautiful page.
Recommended by: Malorie Carpenter, Youth Services Assistant
Posted in: Youth Fiction
The Fifth Quarter
by Mike Dawson
Fourth grader Lori loves to play basketball, even though she’s not the strongest player. This love of the game helps her to navigate all the realities of growing up: trouble with friends, a first sleepaway camp, and her mom’s political ambitions. A charming tale of growing up, working towards your goals, and basketball. Perfect for sports enthusiasts and fans of Hena Khan’s basketball series.
Recommended by: Kara DeCarlo, Youth Services School Liaison
Posted in: Youth Fiction