PreK-MS: End of Summer Adventures

Joanna Ho

ISBN: 9781339005546

Publisher's Synopsis:

Mindy isn't like the other classic milk tea flavors, with their sensible straws and varying shades of brown. Instead, Mindy shines with her green, white and red colors. Worried about not being milk tea enough, Mindy decides to dive into their history so she can be less different. As she and her friends embark on this journey, they make a surprising discovery about the truth behind milk tea that could change the town forever...

MrsK's Review: Fantasy

How sweet is your tea? Little Boba tea is totally, and wonderfully sweet. Mindy arrived in Milk Tea; a town steeped in tradition. Yet, Mindy was not easily soothed. Although she was the first that was beginning to "look" different, Mindy decides to begin a research project. Searching through the Milk Tea town library, Mindy discovers how the Milk Teas came from various continents. Each tea ingredient had unique qualities. Unfortunately, most adult teas had forgotten. Will the presentation that Mindy and her friends created help the adults to understand the truth about the special qualities of each tea?

This is an adorable picture story that will bring inspiration and fun discussions to every family or classroom story time. End the story with a Milk Tea tasting,

MrsK

Meet the Author:

 

 Joanna Ho Bradshaw is the author of Eyes that Kiss in the Corners (HarperCollins, Jan 2021), Playing at the Border: A Story of Yo-Yo Ma (HarperCollins, Fall 2021), and One Day (Winter 2023). She is a writer and educator with a passion for anti-bias, anti-racism and equity work. She holds a BA in psychology from the University of Pennsylvania, and a master’s from the Principal Leadership Institute at Berkeley. She has been an English teacher, a dean, the designer of an alternative-to-prison program, and a professional development mastermind. She is currently the vice principal of a high school in the Bay Area, where she survives on homemade chocolate chip cookies, outdoor adventures, and dance parties with her kids. Keep your eyes open for more books to come!

 Meet the Illustrator:

 Amber Ren: Spending the first half of her life in China and the second half in America, Amber is heavily influenced by her bicultural background. She enjoys animation and illustration from both the East and the West, and her diverse interest and cultural background are evident in her work. Amber graduated from CalArts in 2015.

Amber is currently working in the animation industry and illustrating picture books during her free time. Her debut picture book BECAUSE written by Mo Willems is a New York Times Best Seller. Since then, she has illustrated five more picture books and three book covers. Her work was featured in The Eric Carle Museum's first online exhibition, ART in Place: Social Distancing in the Studio.

 Muon Thí Van

ISBN: 9781338822045

Publisher's Synopsis:

You Make the World is a fantastical journey between a father and son and the self-discovery of the love and power within. Throughout their adventure together, the father describes his son's contagious energy and range of strong emotions as having the same intensity and beauty as the natural world. Muon Thí Van's acclaimed lyrical style shines in this poetic affirmation of one's own power. Award-winning illustrator duo, Phung Nguyen Quang and Huynh Kim Lien's stunning art captures the magic of imagination. Together, this book is a work of art in every sense of the way and truly sings from the pages.

"The sun makes the world hum.

The clouds make the world blue.

The wind makes the world wild.

The rain makes the world new..."

MrsK's Review: Fantasy/Family

During a father and son camping trip, the wonder of nature helps the boy to see how the world shines with a special uniqueness. Growing into the "sight" of goodness all around is a precious treasure. Beautifully crafted, the nature trip brings a heartwarming discovery, one in which many children have yet to understand.

Do they know that when "they yell... the world around them trembles?"  Or when they cry "the world around them remembers?" Imagine the depth of discussions that your family and/or class can have from this boy's discoveries. Every child makes the world whole; do they know that truth? 

Let's share this truth, once the story is completed have them create a picture of them and which of the characteristics they want to "plant" into their world...

MrsK

"But you know what else makes the world?

You."

Meet the Author:    

Muon Thị Văn loves to read books of all shapes and sizes. She first began reading yellow-spined hardbacks about a certain girl detective before graduating to longer novels and then picture books (it’s true, she doesn’t remember reading picture books as a young child). So, few books reflected her formative experiences, though, that she desired to bring new and different stories into the world.

Christy Mandin

ISBN: 9781339023373

Publisher's Synopsis:

Garden Glen was afraid of the dark. Each night when the sun went down, all the lights in town turned on. The houses shone like the noon sun. Every house except for Millie Fleur La Fae's, of course.

Millie Fleur knows there are enchanting things that can only be glimpsed in the dark. But ever since she moved to Garden Glen, her nighttime friends are nowhere to be found.

Determined to welcome the dark back to town, Millie Fleur bakes delicious moon pies and plants a sweet-smelling moon garden. But before the nighttime creatures will return, Millie Fleur must convince the townspeople to be brave and turn out the lights.

"Garden Glen was afraid of the dark."

MrsK's Review: Reality Fantasy

Every house was "as bright as the midday sun." Except for Millies, her house was mysterious because her house had a secret. When her moon garden showed signs of a struggle, her mother took out the light from the streetlight. As the town grumbles, Millie makes a few visits complete with moon pies in hand. That's when the creatures of the night begin showing up at her house.

Do you know the creatures of the night? The spiders, crickets, or katydids? Do you know which plants scent the night with goodness, plants like moonflowers, sugarplums, and twilight tulips? 

Step into Millie's night garden, you might discover a small area at your place that needs a nightly destination,

MrsK

"Behind my gates lies a world you've been missing."

Meet the Author:

  

Kirk Cameron

ISBN: 9781955550529

Publisher's Synopsis:

Ironically, one of the lies culture tells your children is that the love of self should be their single most important priority. But, what about teaching them the hard lesson about Christ's higher, self-sacrificial love? In Kirk's new book, on the topic of loving your enemy, Stewart the Giraffe dreams of beating Asher at the Hive Haven Fair. But, when an unexpected accident ruins Stewart's chances, it's how Asher reacts that changes everything!

"Doohickeys, doodads, and doozits galore...

all spin, sputter, and soar."

MrsK's Review: Reality Fantasy

Young Stewart the giraffe was in awe at the Hive Haven Invention Fair. Until his family ran into Asher's fox family. Their families have fought for so long, no one remembers what started the rivalry. With an intensity to beat each other, the science fair became chaotic when Grandpa Foxes scooter goes out of control.

Stewart's invention is ruined... until Asher makes a few adjustments. As the judges come into view the two families are not pleased... could this be a moment of kindness make the difference for both families?

This story is a unique invention of scientific wonders woven with human kindness. As with every Brave book, there are discoveries to be made within the story, Brave challenges beyond the story. As well as brave discussion points to bridge the gaps of friends vs. enemy's epidemic within today's society.

What invention could your reader create?

MrsK

Meet the Author:

 Kirk Cameron is a Christian, producer, actor, television and film icon, loving husband, and father. In addition, Kirk has had a big impact on our society through films like Fireproof, The Homeschool Awakening, and Lifemark. Kirk has also been one of the main BRAVE authors on the Freedom Island Tour doing story hour readings at local libraries. The Fox, the Fair, and the Invention Scare is Kirk's third book with BRAVE!

Henry Winkler and Lin Oliver

ISBN: 9780545498586

Publisher's Synopsis:

Billy Broccoli is new to the neighborhood and wants cool friends and a spot on the baseball team more than anything. But the one thing he never wanted is his own personal ghost. So imagine his surprise when he ends up sharing a room with Hoover Porterhouse, a funny ghost with a whole lot of attitude.

When an obnoxious school bully sets out to demolish Billy, the Hoove comes up with a plan for revenge. It’s all in the Hooves’ Rule Number Forty-Two: Stay cool. And like it or not, Billy and the Hoove have to stick together if Billy ever wants to get in style, get even, and conquer the school.

MrsK's Review: Gr. 3-4 Humor

Meet Billy who is in 6th grade. He tries to be friendly, yet most of the kids at school aren't ready to accept the new kid in town. Billy's mother, stepfather, and stepsister, Breeze, moved when his mother become the principal at Moorepark middle school. This year's SOC, Speak Out Challenge, will be demonstrating something special that they can do. The only idea Billy can do is recite the alphabet backwards in 15 seconds or less. How cool is that!

Hoove has many rules for living life. For example, #16 is to always keep yourself sharp... you never know who might be looking." Not exactly a bad rule, yet Hooves' not really someone who can be seen given he is a fourteen-year-old ghost whose been dead for ninety-nine years. Hoove has a very important assignment. He must do his best with Billy, or he will never have the chance to visit every famous baseball field in the nation. Hoove has a better idea, one that will make Billy more popular than anything any other kid in 6th grade could do. Billy could read a few students' mind! Of course, Hoove would be the hidden success secret. Caution, Hoove doesn't play "second fiddle" to anyone. Will he get it right and stick to it with Billy?

With silly play on words, crazy stunts, and an "unreal" friendship this novel brings giggles, shaking of the head eye rolls, and many "no... don't" warnings to Hoove. Enjoy this zany journey,

MrsK

Meet the Authors:

 

Mr. Winkler is deeply committed to children's welfare and works with numerous children's groups. He is involved with The MacLaren Children's Center (a facility for abused children), The National Committee for Arts for the Handicapped, The Special Olympics, and The Los Angeles Music Center's Very Special Arts Festival, as well as numerous teenage alcohol and drug abuse programs. He is a founding member of the Children's Action Network, a non-profit organization that sponsors informational briefings for writers, producers and directors on children's issues and serves as a clearinghouse for the entertainment industry on children's issues.

Lin Oliver is an American writer, producer, and the co-founder of the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators. During the 1990s and early 2000s, she wrote and produced a number of works for television and film, notably the 1990s television show, Harry and the Hendersons. As an author of books for children, Oliver began collaborating on the Hank Zipzer series with actor Henry Winkler in 2003. They next created the prequel series Here's Hank, the Ghost Buddy series, and the Alien Superstar series.

Rebecca Stead

ISBN: 9781250380470

Publisher's Synopsis:

When a mysterious little free library (guarded by a large orange cat) appears overnight in the small town of Martinville, eleven-year-old Evan plucks two weathered books from its shelves, never suspecting that his life is about to change.

Evan and his best friend Rafe quickly discover a link between one of the old books and a long-ago event that none of the grown-ups want to talk about. The two boys start asking questions whose answers will transform not only their own futures, but the town itself.

"Justice must be done in the end."

MrsK's Review: Gr. 4-5 Mystery/Fantasy

Mortimer is a fascinating cat, he is loyal, compassionate, and missing his sister Petunia. He isn't happy when his cart of old books was being taken outside, "it was all he had left of his first home." It had been twenty years since the fire. Why were they destroying his library cart? Once the cart was moved outside and his beloved books were placed on it, Mortimer chose to leave the comfortable house to become the guardian of the mysterious little free library, as well as the areas mice. As cats usually are, he is cunning and will use his knowledge about the Martinville library fire to find a solution for revealing the truth.

Evan never expected to find what looked like a box on a pole outside of the Martinville's History House. Upon a closer inspection, what looked like an old library cart with glass doors surprisingly had old library books inside. With that orange cat, his mom called Goldie lying underneath it. Why would someone put old books outside? Who did this? Well, why not take a book like the sign stated. So, Evan took two books. Little did Evan know he would be caught up in a mystery that would involve those two books.

Ms. Scoggins once was the Librarian; she remains Mortimer's favorite house mate because her hugs are gentle. Ms. Scoggins takes care of Al and Mr. Brock and of course Mortimer. She dislikes mice, dirty spaces, and things that she has little control over. Nothing has been easy since the fire, especially for Mr. Brock. She knows their time is running out.

Al was the assistant librarian before the library burnt down. She and Ms. Scoggins, as well as Mr. Brock, the old patron from the library were living in the Martinville History House. Ever since the fire on 11/5/1999, they had taken up residency at the History House. It was a perfect place to reside, especially since tour hours were few and far between, which meant that Al doesn't disappear very easily, so she waits hidden in different areas. The three of them took up very little space and everything is always back in space before the tour hours, so their existence has become routine and only Al does their errands.

With the help of Rafe, Evan's best friend, they begin putting pieces of the Martinville fire together. He had to discover who started it, especially since the trail of clues are leading to his father! Now that he read the old book from the mystery box, How to write a Mystery Novel by Edward McClelland, and the only person who checked the book out was H. G. Higgins. Evan strongly believes it was the well-known mystery writer who started the fire at the library.

Will Evan and Rafe discover the truth about the fatal fire of unknown origins? With well-crafted characters, baffling twists and turns, this "romping" mystery will keep you readjusting who set the fire, are you ready to put the pieces together?

MrsK

"Being a Great Reader means feeling something about books...

Books don't get used up... they get powered by the readers...

didn't they?"

Meet the Author:

 Rebecca Stead is the New York Times bestselling author of When You Reach Me, Liar & Spy, First Light, Goodbye Stranger, Bob, and, most recently, The List of Things That Will Not Change. Her books have been awarded the Newbery Medal, the Boston Globe/Horn Book Award for Fiction and the Guardian Children's Fiction Prize. Rebecca lives in New York City, where she is always on the lookout for her next story idea

Ben Costa & James Parks

ISBN: 9781665910699

Publisher's Synopsis:

Coop Cooperson lives in the Land of Eem, a fantastical realm where many different species live together and there is always more magic to be discovered by those up to the task. The Dungeoneer Academy trains future explorers with classes like Dungeons and Mazes, Creatures and Critters, and Swords and Sorcery.

Coop believes in the academy’s mission and the Dungeoneer’s Code, but being the only human student can make it difficult to fit in—sometimes he wonders if he really belongs. Lucky for Coop, his best friend Oggie the bugbear has his back, as do the two other members of their exploring team, Daz the boggart and Mindy the imp. They have to rely on each other more than ever as the test for their Junior Dungeoneer Badges looms closer.

If Coop and his friends fail to run the final gauntlet in the fungal jungle, they will have to leave the academy. As future dungeoneers, they know to expect the unexpected, but nothing could prepare them for the adventure in store.  

"This book you are reading... is... my personal adventure journal.

... Oggie draws all the pictures.

So, if you're up for a wild ride..."

MrsK's Review: Gr. 4-6+ Fantasy/Adventure

Meet Coop, he is currently in training at the Dungeoneer Academy. He is the only human ever to be admitted to the academy. Talk about feeling like the odd one out! Not every recruit is accepting of Coop's uniqueness.

Coop's team includes Oggie the large bugbear, who is the best artist. Mindy is an imp who is always prepared with a pack full of all things, she is a genius. Then there is Daz, she is a boggart and the most skilled. The newest recruit will be a Mushrum known as Tymbo or more accurately known as "the Tymbos." The team will be pushed beyond endurance, threatened by unfortunate choices, and possibly lost forever.

The academy's staff includes their coach Quag who is their "hardy" gauntlet instructor. Mr. Fang is an inkpot spider that serves as their librarian, as well as the one that pops out in the most unnerving sections of their maze assessments. Blorf is their cook... a bit like a boar... with less than dead meals. Professor Clementine is their passionate historian who believes the past will help them "plan for the future." There is always so much to learn, to cherish. Headmaster Munchowzen the ancient explorer the academy's preservationist. 

Then of course there would be those that want to have glory but are not necessarily learning kindness. Zeek who is a goblin, nasty attitude who schemes chaos.  Axel is a very large Dratch which enjoys mocking others and disrespects those in authority. 

Which team... which individual... will succeed? Does the Cungeoneer's Code hold the secrets long held by generations as guidelines to be followed for the greatest adventures, or can you "pass" the Final Gauntlet without tenets? Maybe the warning to combine your talents is linked to four strategies of success!

Within the books journey, you will meet different species, uncover lost treasures, and obviously there be monsters, ruins, mazes, and unknowns that could cause your time to come to an end.

Enjoy a rollicking turn of these pages,

MrsK

"... you also need to be prepared to run for your life!"

Meet the Authors:

Welcome to Land of Eem! The official website of Ben Costa and James Parks, creators of Dungeoneer Adventures, Rickety Stitch and the Gelatinous Goo, and tabletop roleplaying game, Land of Eem.

We’ve been friends since the 2nd grade, and love making stuff together. It all began in grade school, drawing superhero comics with crayons and construction paper. In high school, we spent hours making wacky homemade movies, and then as college roommates, we came up with the idea that would become Rickety Stitch and the Gelatinous Goo, our first published graphic novel series in 2017.

We love fantasy and strive to craft tales that celebrate the adventures of unlikely heroes. We grew up playing tabletop roleplaying games, creating countless characters and collaborative worlds with our pals. It’s a pastime that’s paved the way for our creative careers, and we still play with the same friends to this day.

Holly Jackson

ISBN: 9780593374207

Publisher's Synopsis:

Lights. Camera. Lies.

18-year-old Bel has lived her whole life in the shadow of her mom’s mysterious disappearance. Sixteen years ago, Rachel Price vanished, and young Bel was the only witness, but she has no memory of it. Rachel is gone, long presumed dead, and Bel wishes everyone would just move on.

But the case is dragged up from the past when the Price family agree to a true crime documentary. Bel can’t wait for filming to end, for life to go back to normal. And then the impossible happens. Rachel Price reappears, and life will never be normal again.

Rachel has an unbelievable story about what happened to her. Unbelievable, because Bel isn’t sure it’s real. If Rachel is lying, then where has she been all this time? And – could she be dangerous? With the cameras still rolling, Bel must uncover the truth about her mother, and find out why Rachel Price really came back from the dead . . .

From world-renowned author Holly Jackson comes a mind-blowing masterpiece about one girl’s search for the truth, and the terror in finding out who your family really is.

"What do you think happened to your mother?"

MrsK's Review: Gr. 7-HS Mystery/Crime

Meet Bel, currently she is literally in view of the camera. A documentary about the mysterious disappearance of her mother is being replayed from the view of the only witness. The problem is, Annabel was found in her car seat. Just how much can Bel even know? She was only two when her mother disappeared.

Mr. Tripp is the man who found the car, and of course, Bel. Amazingly, he is also her homeroom teacher.

Charlie is Bel's dad. For sixteen years, he has been a dutiful father, he's been Bel's rock. They enjoy bacon sandwiches, ... What he does know, if Rachel ever came back, he would let her know just how much he loves her... "before any questions, those can come later."

Carter is Bel's cousin; she is destined to be a ballerina. Her father Jeff is Charlie's brother. Carter's family only lives a few houses from Bel. Even though she is younger than Bel, Bel is her confidant. Will she be ready for the truth that this documentary is about to reveal?

Finally, the car scene on Route 2, would be reenacted. The filming was weird. They hired a lady to play the part of Rachel, and Bel would be interviewed in the back seat... which is her worst part of her toddler experience, back seats caused to much anxiety. Ash was already to begin filming some behind the scenes shots. Since the beginning mess up on the first day of shooting, Ash has been the one avenue for Bel. Most of this filming Bel can keep her emotions out of the Q & A discussions. She didn't have memories with her mom; she was too young. Of course, there are pieces that are uncomfortable, yet Charlie will always be there to help her through the rough parts.

That is until... the moment that Rachel reappears! Will truth take them to a new closer? How do you accept a mother into your life when she was presumed dead? How does the family come together for a final filming for the documentary? Where has Rachel been for 16 years?

So many twists and turns... with a special warning... once you Rachel returns there is no stopping of page turning... expect a late night to the end!

Enjoy,

MrsK

"The truth didn't make sense. But it was the only thing that did.

Rachel Price was back, and Bel had lost her mind."

Meet the Author:

 Holly Jackson was born in 1992. She grew up in Buckinghamshire and started writing stories from a young age, completing her first (poor) attempt at a book aged fifteen.

'A Good Girl's Guide to Murder' is a YA Mystery Thriller and her debut novel. She lives in London and aside from reading and writing, she enjoys binge-playing video games and pointing out grammatical errors in street signs.

   

Seasoned Readers: Summertime Escapes

Dorothy Gilman

ISBN: 9780449208281

Publisher Synopsis:

Mrs. Virgil (Emily) Pollifax of New Brunswick, New Jersey, was a widow with grown children. She was tired of attending her Garden Club meetings. She wanted to do something good for her country. So, naturally, she became a CIA agent. This time, the assignment sounds as tasty as a taco. A quick trip to Mexico City is on her agenda. Unfortunately, something goes wrong, and our dear Mrs. Pollifax finds herself embroiled in quite a hot Cold War—and her country's enemies find themselves entangled with one unbelievably feisty lady.

"... so often nothing more is needed for volunteer work

then a good set of teeth!"

MrsK's Review: Espionage Mystery

Mrs. Pollifax has quite the talent for portraying the truth. During her doctor's appointment, she was given the wonderful news that she was in excellent health. At the age of 60+, this news didn't quite calm her feelings. Although her family is now grown, she has spent her time volunteering where ever there was a need. Today, her doctor has planted the seed that everyone, no matter what their age, to live to their full potential. What would Mrs. Pollifax want to do? The one thing she dreamed of doing... all those years ago...

The very next day, Mrs. Pollifax is in Washington DC. She has decided to volunteer as a spy for the CIA. As you probably are already pre-judging, Mr. Mason is stunned when he meets with Mrs.P. Spies don't just walk into the CIA and volunteer to give their life for their country. Spies are trained... not just anyone who walks in off the streets. Unsure of what to do, Mr. Mason asks Mrs.P to wait in a small room. Unfortunately, when Carstairs shows up to meet with a seasoned spy, he finds Mrs.P awaiting Mason's return. And so this is how Mrs.P will find herself in Costa Rica... picking up a package from an obscure book store... and waking up in an unknown location in an Albania detention cell.

Please, do not be alarmed... she is not alone. There is one other person who was taken from the bookstore. A man who is known as Farrell. There will be guards, senior officers, a mysterious person in the cell next to them, and of course a plan for escape.

If you enjoy the espionage genre... if you enjoy the quick-witted debates between characters... if you enjoy Miss Marple Mysteries or Murder She Wrote... this is your TBR series... 

Live to your fullest potential...

MrsK

Meet the Author:

   Dorothy Gilman was born in New Brunswick, New Jersey, to minister James Bruce and Essa (Starkweather) Gilman. She started writing when she was 9 and knew early on she was to be a writer. At 11, she competed against 10 to 16-year-olds in a story contest and won first place. She attended the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts and briefly the University of Pennsylvania. She planned to write and illustrate children's books. She married Edgar A. Butters Jr, in 1945, and this ended in divorce in 1965. Dorothy worked as an art teacher & telephone operator before becoming an author. She wrote children’s stories for more than ten years under the name Dorothy Gilman Butters and then began writing adult novels about Mrs. Pollifax–a retired grandmother who becomes a CIA agent. The Mrs. Pollifax series made Dorothy famous. While her stories nourish people’s thirst for adventure and mystery, Dorothy knew about nourishing the body as well. On her farm in Nova Scotia, she grew medicinal herbs and used this knowledge of herbs in many of her stories, including A Nun in the Closet. She traveled extensively and used these experiences in her novels as well. Many of Dorothy’s books feature strong women having adventures around the world. In 2010 Gilman was awarded the annual Grand Master Award by the Mystery Writers of America. Dorothy spent much of her life in Connecticut, New Mexico, and Maine. She died at age 88 of complications of Alzheimer's disease. She is survived by two sons, Christopher Butters and Jonathan Butters; and two grandchildren.

Miranda James

ISBN: 9780593199480

Publisher's Synopsis:

Librarian Charlie Harris and his faithful feline companion, Diesel, have inherited Charlie’s grandfather’s house, along with a deadly legacy: a decades-old crime scene, in this all-new mystery in the New York Times bestselling Cat in the Stacks series.

Charlie has always believed that his grandfather had sold his house to his longtime tenant, Martin Hale. So when Martin dies, Charlie is surprised to discover the house was not left to Martin but instead belongs to Charlie. As he and Diesel check out the house he remembers fondly from his childhood, he is pleasantly surprised that it is in better condition than expected. That is, until they find a literal skeleton in a closet.

While the sheriff’s department investigates the mysterious remains, Charlie digs deeper into the past for clues to the identity of the bones and why they are there. But the cold case heats up quickly when Martin’s grandson is found dead on the farm.

As Charlie delves into his own family history, he encounters many people who might have been motivated to take a life. But Charlie and Diesel know that things are not always what they seem, and that secrets seemingly lost to time have a way of finding their way back to haunt the present.

MrsK's Review:

I adored the cover... who wouldn't! Charlie has just inherited his family's farmhouse. There are challenges... regular little nuances of those who claim ownership... being back at the farm after 4 decades... or might be a silly episode of a skeleton in a closet... it definitely won't be Diesel his coon cat.

Sean is Charlie's son. Given his attachment to legal matters, of course, he does have a degree as a  . Sorting through who really owns the farm, which farmers will continue renting parcels of land, and there are always some outside issues when his father has a cold case to investigate, as well as a mysterious homicide.

Given all of the legal ramifications, along comes the dead man's sister. Alissa arrives in time to identify her brother's body. Who even cared about her brother, he was in town only to lay claim to the farm that their dad had said was theirs. She hasn't been on the farm since that one horrible day... she was so little then... she really doesn't want to be at the farm.

With many clues, mischievous detours, and a promise that Charlie might accept an outcome that comes out of nowhere. Enjoy a summer moment in the shade with a mysterious inheritance...

MrsK

Meet the Author:

 

Miranda James is the pseudonym of Dean James, a seventh-generation Mississippian who recently returned home after over thirty years in Texas. A mystery fan since the age of ten, he wrote his first novel at the ripe old age of twelve. The only copy of The Mystery of the Willow Key vanished years ago, but since it was highly derivative of the Nancy Drew and Trixie Belden mystery series, that’s probably a good thing.

Currently a librarian at the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson, Dean has published articles on topics in library science, the history of science/medicine, and mystery fiction. His first book, which he co-wrote with fellow librarian Jean Swanson, was By a Woman’s Hand (Berkley; 1994). Jean and Dean won an Agatha Award for Best Mystery Non-Fiction and were nominated by the Mystery Writers of America for the Edgar for Best Critical-Biographical Work for this popular reference book. A second edition followed two years later, and Dean and Jean collaborated on two further projects, Killer Books (Berkley; 1998) and The Dick Francis Companion (Berkley; 2003). In all, he has co-authored or co-edited six works of mystery reference and one short story anthology.

Emily Henry

ISBN: 9780593334836

Publisher's Synopsis:

Nora Stephens’ life is books—she’s read them all—and she is not that type of heroine. Not the plucky one, not the laidback dream girl, and especially not the sweetheart. In fact, the only people Nora is a heroine for are her clients, for whom she lands enormous deals as a cutthroat literary agent, and her beloved little sister Libby.

Which is why she agrees to go to Sunshine Falls, North Carolina for the month of August when Libby begs her for a sisters’ trip away—with visions of a small-town transformation for Nora, who she’s convinced needs to become the heroine in her own story. But instead of picnics in meadows, or run-ins with a handsome country doctor or bulging-forearmed bartender, Nora keeps bumping into Charlie Lastra, a bookish brooding editor from back in the city. It would be a meet-cute if not for the fact that they’ve met many times and it’s never been cute.

If Nora knows she’s not an ideal heroine, Charlie knows he’s nobody’s hero, but as they are thrown together again and again—in a series of coincidences no editor worth their salt would allow—what they discover might just unravel the carefully crafted stories they’ve written about themselves.

"When books are your life..."

MrsK's Review:

Meet Nora. She is a NY city literary agent. Her life revolves around her clients and their stories. She lives out her days serving those authors. Day after day! To the point that she never gets the guy, and her sweet sister has a plan to get her out of her rut.

Libby is the younger sister. She's pregnant, a mother, and is married to the love of her life. Before her next child is born, she has planned a "much-needed" retreat with her sister. Which happens to be planned in her favorite author's best-selling small town of Sunshine Falls.

On the day that Nora received a phone call from her current love interest, she is entering the restaurant where she has a meeting for her client's newest book. This lunch meeting does not go well, especially since she was late. Charlie Lastra is a "no-nonsense" editor who is already in opposition with Nora. There is no way that Nora will ever use him as an editor now that she has met him. So why does she continue rethinking that horrible luncheon?

Charlie has an exceptional insight into what makes a best seller. His insight into marketing could make a difference for Nora's client. His only challenge is that he doesn't like Nora's lack of appeal, plus she was unprofessionally late to their meeting. After a few quick-witted text messages, neither Nora nor Charlie has any plans of working together. 

So, when Libby "kidnaps" Nora for a much-needed retreat, Nora is all in. Since their mother's death, Nora has always tried to do anything her sister needed and this is one of those moments that Nora must do... even if it means that she will participate in Libby's "Life Changing Vacation List."

When they arrive in Sunshine Falls, some things are just like Libby's favorite book and other things are a façade. Nora is hoping that Libby doesn't become disenchanted. Libby is acting weirder by the day. And then it happens... Nora meets... well you have to read the book, won't you!

Excellent characters will entertain you, and quick-witted humor will enchant your hours within the covers of this romance. Are you ready for a summer romance complete with a book store and book lovers?

MrsK

Meet the Author:

   

Emily Henry is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of Book Lovers, People We Meet on Vacation, and Beach Read, as well as the forthcoming Happy Place. She lives and writes in Cincinnati and the part of Kentucky just beneath it.

Laura Childs

ISBN: 9780451489616

Publisher's Synopsis:

While viewing the harbor's Gaslights and Galleons Parade from the widow's walk of Timothy Neville's Charleston mansion, local banker Carson Lanier seemingly tumbles over a narrow railing, then plunges three stories to his death. But a tragic accident becomes something much more sinister when it's discovered that the victim was first shot with a bolt from a crossbow.

At the request of the mansion owner, Theodosia investigates the tragedy and is soon neck-deep in suspects. An almost ex-wife, a coworker, a real estate partner--all had motives for killing the luckless banker, but one resorted to murder to settle accounts.

"Tall sailing ships... glowing white lights... Charleston Harbor..."

and an unidentified man falling to his death...

MrsK's Review:

Meet Theodosia the delightful protagonist-tea-shop investigator. Her greatest passion is the Indigo Tea Shop and sailing. There is nothing better than refining the tea menu or refurbishing the décor of the tea shop... unless it's the possibility of solving a crime. Given the evening's party, a "thunderous roar" pierces the night... is that really a man screaming as he is sliding off of the neighboring roof? Theodosia is not about to wait...

Drayton is the sixty-ish tea sommelier who is passionate about blending teas, as well as all types of history. Since joining Theodosia at the tea shop, he is thrilled with work and a grounding force for the many escapades' of Theodosia.

Haley is the tea shop's chef, she runs the kitchen like a "drill sergeant and is the perfection of an energetic enthusiastic comrade.

Detective Pete Riley, the one that makes Theodosia smile; can smooth-talk her into slowing down; and will ultimately help her uncover the truth. 

Watching the man "spinning and bouncing" off the roof was like a "hideous pinball machine" horror show. Could one of the canons from the sailing ships be involved? Was the man shot? Being the first at the death scene meant that Theodosia was not going to wait around for the Charleston police. After all, she is the one who checked for the pulse. She must find out why this man is "skewered" on the fence.

If there is one thing that makes for a great summer mystery it's the joy of reading about tea shops. All of the great new teas and the absolutely calorie-free yumminess! 

Enjoy, MrsK

Meet the Author:

Laura Childs is a pseudonym for Gerry Schmitt and she is the best-selling author of the Tea Shop Mysteries, the Scrapbook Mysteries, and the Cackleberry Club Mysteries.

Laura Childs is the New York Times bestselling author of the Tea Shop Mysteries, Scrapbook Mysteries, and Cackleberry Club Mysteries. In her previous life, she was CEO/Creative Director of her own marketing firm and authored several screenplays. She is married to a professor of Chinese art history, loves to travel, rides horses, enjoys fundraising for various non-profits, and has two Chinese Shar-Pei dogs.

Francine Rivers

ISBN: 9781414370651

Publisher's Synopsis:

Once Leota’s garden was a place of beauty—where flowers bloomed and hope thrived. It was her refuge from the deep wounds inflicted by a devastating war, her sanctuary where she knelt before a loving God and prayed for the children who couldn’t understand her silent sacrifices.

At eighty-four, Leota is alone, her beloved garden in ruins. All her efforts to reconcile with her adult children have been fruitless. She voices her despair to a loving Father, her only friend.

And God brings a wind of change through unlikely means: one, a college student who thinks he has all the answers; the other, the granddaughter Leota never hoped to know. But can the devastation wrought by keeping painful family secrets be repaired before she runs out of time?

"I come to the garden alone

While the dew is still on roses

And the voice I hear falling on my ear

The son of God discloses..."

MrsK's Review:

Leota has been a woman who nurtured her garden with hope, specialized attention, a beautiful design of color, and thoughtful conversations with her Lord. Just as Leota is entering her last season of life, she knows the sadness of a garden she can't take care of. The longing for a family that has a life of their own. The worst was the struggle with so many memories and only an empty house that is overflowing with eighty-four years of items. She had tried so hard to keep her family together... and failed so miserably. Will the rekindled hope of her granddaughter bring reconciliation with her daughter? Nora has learned the value of accepting what she can't change... yet will she find the joy necessary to move forward?

Corban is attending Berkeley. When his professor returns his proposal for the term paper, the grade is not what he expects. What does the Professor mean by "...it lacks the human element?" Walking thru his emotions, Corban has understood he needs to do a case study to understand how the elderly embrace life. With the guidance of Ruth, he agrees that the case study must be a woman. His next step is "who" that might be? Will Corban discover the truth about what the elderly need? Will he find his own pathway to a trusting truth found in an elderly woman?

Nora is Leota's daughter. Lack of control is not acceptable in any form. Common sense is what Nora prides herself in... after all... look at how she's created a life without her mother's influence. Yet, when her daughter informs her that she has other plans for her future. San Francisco nor God has any connection to her plans for her daughter's life. Will she finally let go of her past resentments and learn the value and joy of living by faith?

Anne is Nora's daughter. While attending a Christian summer camp, she began realizing that maybe there was a bigger plan for her life... at least bigger than the "elite" plans that her mother is determined to manipulate her into accepting. Breaking free will it be a "leap of faith," or will it become a wedge between them... just like her mother and grandmother? Will she stand strong against the "falsehood" of pleasing others?

Most everyone rekindles a gardener's heart once the winter's chill has moved into a season of springtime rebirth. The tempting call of renewing flower pots and hanging baskets lifts our souls. Many have found the blessed solace of "tending" a garden bed or pruning and reshaping those cherished trees and bushes that were planted years ago.

Leota's story is a bitter/sweet glimpse into a woman's life of unfolding truths. For this reader, I visited with Leota off and on for many moments during the latter days of my career... in the season over 60... and with children reaching their mid-life realizations... Leota's story found its mark every time. Areas of gratitude... moments that cracked my heart... insights into healing wounds that needed forgiveness. What I can assure you of... is a beautiful walk with a character that will remind you what it means to walk "seasoned" before our Lord...

MrsK

"...And he walks with me and he talks with me

And he tells me I am his own

And the joy we share as we tarry there

None other has ever known.

He speaks and the sound of his voice

Is so sweet, the birds hush their singing

And the melody that he gave to me

Within my heart is ringing.

And he walks with me and he talks with me

And he tells me I am his own

And the joy we share as we tarry there

None other has ever known.

Merle Haggard

Meet the Author:

New York Times bestselling author Francine Rivers continues to win both industry acclaim and reader loyalty around the globe. Her numerous bestsellers include Redeeming Love, A Voice in the Wind, and Bridge to Haven, and her work has been translated into more than thirty different languages. She is a member of Romance Writers of America's coveted Hall of Fame as well as a recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award from American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW).

MrsK's Summer Time picks for family adventures!

 

Summertime is the perfect time...
For grand escapes... adventures... and memories!

Everybody Read Aloud:

Crinkleroot... Beyond the Backyard Discoveries

by Jim Arnosky

MrsK's Review:

Crinkleroot is an amazing Educator whose specialty is nature. He was born in a tree and raised by bees, or so the legend goes. He's an authority on tracking critters, he knows how to plant and harvest the seasons, and he can help anyone plant popcorn!

Talking a walk with Crinkleroot through the woods, you learn the ways of our feathered friends, of the critters by the rivers and ponds. As seasons change, there are so many changes for our leaf bearing friends, the needs of winter food for the littles of nature, as well as delightful nature walks in which you can learn the signs of life as they gather and make homes for the winter.

Any Crinkleroot book is worth owning, it was with a such sadness that Crinkleroot's writer is no longer writing his wisdom. Now it's up to us... to seek his knowledge by checking the internet for his books, browsing all used book stores, and gathering these treasures for the generations of tomorrow.

MrsK

Christopher Denise

ISBN: 9780316310628

Publisher's Synopsis:

Since the day he hatched, Owl dreamed of becoming a real knight. He may not be the biggest or the strongest, but his sharp nocturnal instincts can help protect the castle, especially since many knights have recently gone missing. While holding guard during Knight Night Watch, Owl is faced with the ultimate trial—a frightening intruder. It’s a daunting duel by any measure. But what Owl lacks in size, he makes up for in good ideas.

Full of wordplay and optimism, this surprising display of bravery proves that cleverness (and friendship) can rule over brawn.

MrsK's Review:

When did you knew what you wanted to be? For Owl is one wish was to be a Knight. Every night while Owl was falling asleep he knew his gift of bravery would lead him into his Knighthood. As knights began to disappear, Owl applied to Knight school. He proved his cleverness, he diligently studied, yet, he had a few challenges... who doesn't! Will Owl overcome his challenges and become a knight?

MrsK

Meet the Author:

 

Christopher Denise spent much of his childhood in Shannon, Ireland, exploring castles and dreaming of great adventures. He is the illustrator of many critically acclaimed books for young readers, including Anika Denise’s Bunny in the Middle, Alison McGhee’s Firefly Hollow, and Rosemary Wells’s Following Grandfather, as well as several in Brian Jacques’s award-winning Redwall series. His books have appeared on the Indie Next List and the New York Times bestseller list. Knight Owl (march 2022) marks his author-illustrator debut. Christopher’s current adventures include exploring coastal Rhode Island, where he lives with his family.

Zletlow Miller

ISBN: 9780062427588

Publisher's Synopsis:

Remarkably You is a manifesto about all of the things—little or small, loud or quiet—that make us who we are: 

You might go unnoticed, or shine like a star,

but wherever you go and whoever you are…

don’t change how you act to be just like the rest.

Believe in yourself and the things you do best.

MrsK's Review:
If you are bold and loud... leading a parade could be your goal. If you are timid or shy, imagine what you could learn when you're out and about. Learning the "know-how" and power of being surprised might just lead you into changing the world around you. Seek to repair what's before... don't give up when there are challenges! Use your talents... be funny, bookish, or fast!

Learn to be delightfully you...
MrsK

Meet the Author:

 
Pat Zietlow Miller knew she wanted to be a writer ever since her seventh-grade English teacher read her paper about square-dancing skirts out loud in class and said: “This is the first time anything a student has written has given me chills.” (Thanks, Mrs. Mueller! You rock!)
Pat started out as a newspaper reporter and wrote about everything from dartball and deer-hunting to diets and decoupage. Then, she joined an insurance company and edited its newsletter and magazine.

Now, she writes insurance information by day and children’s books by night. She has 11 picture books available and 12 more that will be coming out in the next few years.

Eoin Colfer

ISBN: 9781536219173

Publisher's Synopsis:

Patrick has been desperate for a dog of his own for as long as he can remember, and this summer, with his father away, he longs for a canine friend more than ever. Meanwhile, in his short doggy life, Oz has suffered at the hands of bad people. Somewhere out there, he believes, is an awesome boy -- his boy. And maybe, when they find each other, Oz will learn to bark again. Illustrated in light charcoal by two-time Kate Greenaway Medalist P.J. Lynch, this heartwarming story by Eoin Colfer, internationally best-selling author of the Artemis Fowl series, is certain to enchant.

MrsK's Review:

Patrick is a young boy who is longing for his own dog. Oz is a puppy longing for a home. With odds against Oz, he has been abandoned... abused... and left to die. Who will he trust?

When Oz is found, the shelter knows that Oz needs a loving owner or he probably won't survive. Given that Oz has lost his ability to bark, well he just can't be adopted by just anyone. Will he find his true owner, his time is running out.

Wonderfully woven and beautifully illustrated, this beginning chapter book will be a treasure for your home library.

MrsK

Meet the Author:

Eoin Colfer (pronounced Owen) was born in Wexford on the South-East coast of Ireland in 1965, where he and his four brothers were brought up by his father and mother, who were both educators.

He received his degree from Dublin University and began teaching primary school in Wexford. He has lived and worked all over the world, including Saudi Arabia, Tunisia and Italy. After the publication of the Artemis Fowl novels, Eoin retired from teaching and now writes full time. He lives in Ireland with his wife and two children.

Grades 3-6

Katherine Applegate
ISBN: 9780062991324

Publisher's Synopsis:

Bob sets out on a dangerous journey in search of his long-lost sister with the help of his two best friends, Ivan and Ruby. As a hurricane approaches and time is running out, Bob finds courage he never knew he had and learns the true meaning of friendship and family.

MrsK's Review:

Bob has attitude! He rolls in all sorts of yuck. He harasses innocent squirrels. When his motive meets opportunity... yep, he has no control. When Bob meets Ivan, that's right the one and only Ivan, he becomes a friend to Ivan and Ditto their little elephant friend. Unlike Ivan and Ditto, Bob lives in a home with Julia. Yet, having home never means that Bob doesn't have hours to discover, meet, and experience life beyond his own backyard.

Trouble begins brewing when a storm is heading towards his home town. A Hurricane is whirling its way towards Bob's home... towards Ivan and Ditto... in fact Bob learns the power of the wind and its destruction. Will everyone survive? Will he find his way home to Julia? Does anyone care about a little Chihuahua?

Turning the page to discover what will be the ending for Bob is a "must" experience,

MrsK

Meet the Author:

  

Katherine Applegate is the author of The One and Only Ivan, winner of the 2013 Newbery Medal. Her novel Crenshaw spent over twenty weeks on the New York Times children's bestseller list, and her first middle-grade stand-alone novel, the award-winning Home of the Brave, continues to be included on state reading lists, summer reading lists, and class reading lists.

Katherine has written three picture books: The Buffalo Storm; The Remarkable True Story of Ivan, the Shopping Mall Gorilla (often used as a companion book to The One and Only Ivan for younger readers); and Sometimes You Fly (publishing in spring, 2018). For beginning readers, Katherine wrote Roscoe Riley Rules, a seven-book series.

With her husband, Michael Grant, Katherine co-wrote Animorphs, a long-running series that has sold over 35 million books worldwide.

Cornelia Funke

ISBN:

Publisher's Synopsis:

Ben and the Greenblooms must protect a mythical new creature rising from the ocean that can bring light or darkness to whoever it first meets - a vast, mythical Aurelia.

It's a race against time to protect it, for if the Aurelia is hurt, all fabulous creatures will vanish from Earth. In the end though, it may take the arrival of the original silver dragon, Firedrake, to help save them all.

MrsK's Review:

Have you experienced the quick "sighting" of an elf? Have you wandered into a cave, holding your breath that maybe you've discovered a dragon's den? Have you been at the sea and hoped to see a Mermaid?

The Greenblooms know many of the truths about these mythical creatures. There is a legend that says if the Aurelia appears and is hurt or her eggs are taken... all "fabulous creatures will vanish from the earth."

Mr. Greenbloom must get to California before Aurelia appears. Yet, he knows that a boy from his childhood, Eelstrom, will be heading to the same location. Eelstrom has a hunger for all things magical, powerful, and everlasting. Will the Greenblooms stop Eelstrom from hurting Aurelia and the destruction of all the wonderous mythical creatures?

  

Meet the Author:

 Cornelia Funke is a multiple award-winning German illustrator and storyteller, who writes fantasy for all ages of readers. Amongst her best known books is the Inkheart trilogy. Many of Cornelia's titles are published all over the world and translated into more than 30 languages. She has two children, two birds and a very old dog and lives in Los Angeles, California.

8th-HS

Stephanie Kuehn

ISBN:

Publisher's Synopsis:

Beatrice Fletcher is obsessed with unsolved murders in her small town of Cabot Cove, Maine like her great-aunt Jessica, the famous mystery writer. But when her best friend Jackson goes missing, this time the mystery is personal.

Then Jackson fails to show up for a late night meet-up, and instead, Bea stumbles upon three students from the elite Broadmoor Academy: overly-friendly and slightly vicious Leisl, her aloof twin brother, Leif, and Carlos, who knows more about, well, everything than he’s letting on. They’re worldly, secretive, and big on playing games like tenace, the hush-hush Broadmoor tradition where anything or anyone can be a clue to future fame and fortune, and players will stop at nothing -- including murder -- to get ahead.

If Bea wants to find Jackson, she too must join the game and play to win. Everyone in Cabot Cove has secrets, and it’s up to Bea to ferret them out before it’s too late in this thrilling modern update of the classic television show.

"This is bad, something inside me whispers."

MrsK's Review:

Dear Reader...and so the story is woven with Bea's Aunt Jessica, yep... Cabot Cove and  a murder known as the Lambert Murder.

Beatrice Fletcher is a cold case column writer for True Maine. What could ruin your evening with a friend? Jackson has been her steadfast friend, who is absolutely committed to doing everything he agrees to do. Yet, where is he? A darker fear begins to rise!

On the ridge... Bea began chasing a scream... but quickly discovers that she is the one being chased. When she hears a voice shouting... "Over here!" Thankfully she meets three Broadmoor students. Leisel and her twin Leif, as well as Carlos the one who claims that no-one was chasing her. Could this night get any worse? Just as Bea decides to leave, they ask her to help them decode a riddle.

By the morning, she is filled with anxiety... There still is no response to her text message to Jackson. This can't be good. What if he was in trouble at home. What if his parents caught him leaving the house? What if they've done something to him?

With plenty of twists and turns, red herrings, enough clues to get Bea in danger... this mystery engages you to the point of desperation trying to help Bea and Jackson!

MrsK

Meet the Author:

 Stephanie Kuehn is a clinical psychologist and an award-winning author. She has written six novels for teens, including Charm & Strange, which won the ALA’s 2014 William C. Morris Award for best debut young adult novel. Her second novel, Complicit, was named to YALSA’s 2015 Best Fiction for Young Adults list, and her third, Delicate Monsters, won the 2016 Northern California Book Award. In 2015, Stephanie was awarded the PEN/Phyllis Naylor Working Writer Fellowship for The Smaller Evil and in 2017, her fifth novel, When I Am Through With You, received a starred review from Kirkus and was also named an Amazon Best Book of the Month.

Kwame Alexander

ISBN:

Publisher's Synopsis:

"With a bolt of lightning on my kicks . . .The court is SIZZLING. My sweat is DRIZZLING. Stop all that quivering. Cuz tonight I'm delivering," announces dread-locked, 12-year old Josh Bell. He and his twin brother Jordan are awesome on the court. But Josh has more than basketball in his blood, he's got mad beats, too, that tell his family's story in verse, in this fast and furious middle grade novel of family and brotherhood.

Josh and Jordan must come to grips with growing up on and off the court to realize breaking the rules comes at a terrible price, as their story's heart-stopping climax proves a game-changer for the entire family.

 

MrsK's Review:

"Never let anyone lower your goals..."

The dribbling of the ball... crossing it from hand to hand... a basketball move... or a change of attitude?

Josh and Jordan are twins, yet like most twins they are uniquely their own. 

Are you a basketball fan? Have you played H-O-R-S-E? Did the beautiful pumpkin-red ball call to you, asking you to just try to play? Somewhere inside... most of us have shot hoops (or least aimed for the hoop). Most of us have cheered, yelled, and held our breath as we watched the ball dance through the air before the buzz of the bell! This novel is for everyone... you don't have to be a fan, it doesn't require you to even care about the game, it only needs you to read with the eyes of these twins and connect to the message with in your past-present-future.

This poetic verse novel is woven with the heart of youth, yet the exquisite language of honesty touches the reader's humanity... which is why this title does not stay on the shelf in school libraries and bookstores!

Reading for the nuggets of change... is a wonderful adventure,

MrsK

   
"Others' expectations of you are determined by their limitations of life."

Meet the Author:

 
Kwame Alexander is a poet, educator, and New York Times Bestselling author of 21 books, including The Crossover, which received the 2015 John Newbery Medal for the Most Distinguished Contribution to American literature for Children, the Coretta Scott King Author Award Honor, The NCTE Charlotte Huck Honor, the Lee Bennett Hopkins Poetry Award, and the Passaic Poetry Prize. Kwame writes for children of all ages. His other works include Surf's Up, a picture book; Booked, a middle grade novel; and He Said She Said, a YA novel.

Kwame believes that poetry can change the world, and he uses it to inspire and empower young people through his PAGE TO STAGE Writing and Publishing Program released by Scholastic. A regular speaker at colleges and conferences in the U.S., he also travels the world planting seeds of literary love (Singapore, Brazil, Italy, France, Shanghai, etc.). Recently, Alexander led a delegation of 20 writers and activists to Ghana, where they delivered books, built a library, and provided literacy professional development to 300 teachers, as a part of LEAP for Ghana, an International literacy program he co-founded.