Paola Santiago and the River of Tears by Tehlor Kay Mejia – BOOK REVIEW

School is out, and Paola Santiago, an analytic and science-loving mind, is excited to spend more time with her best friends, Emma and Dante. Their first get together involves trying out a new telescope on the banks of the infamous Gila River.

Quintessence by Jess Redman – BOOK REVIEW

Alma suffers from panic attacks. Her suffering is solitary, isolating, and, at times, debilitating. She tries to keep her episodes a secret from her family, but they continue to get worse as Alma struggles to “acclimate” to her new home in Four Points.

War Stories by Gordon Korman – BOOK REVIEW

Trevor’s passion for World War II borders obsession, especially since his beloved great-grandfather, G.G., is a war hero. G.G. fought valiantly in WWII. Now, a small village in France wants to honor his efforts at their liberation celebration, giving Trevor a chance to walk in G.G.’s footsteps.

The Dream Weaver by Reina Luz Alegre – BOOK REVIEW

After moving from place to place, year after year, Zoey finally has a chance to find a home at the Jersey Shore with her grandfather, Poppy.

Everything Sad Is Untrue by Daniel Nayeri – BOOK REVIEW

Everything Sad Is Untrue is author Daniel Nayeri’s (true) story. In recounting his story of being in a middle school classroom in Oklahoma, Nayeri immerses contemporary students in a narrative that spans generations and centuries.

My Life as a Potato by Arianne Costner – BOOK REVIEW

Ben Hardy is the new kid. His recent move from California to Idaho is exactly what a person could imagine it to be– a shock and an adjustment. It is also a great opportunity.