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Alan Cole is not a coward
by Eric Bell
What it's about: A middle-school student deals with insecurities, his demanding father and a challenging crush while endeavoring to come out about his sexual orientation in the wake of a high-stakes competition against his bullying brother.
Who it's for: Perfect for fans of Tim Federle and Gary Schmidt, this is a hilarious and poignant tale about the trials of middle school when you're coming of age--and coming out.
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The Adventurers Guild
by Zack Loran Clark
What it's about: In one of the last cities standing after the world fell to monsters, best friends Zed Kagari and Brock Dunderfel have high hopes for the future. Zed desperately wishes to join the ranks of the Mages Guild, where his status as Freestone's only half elf might finally be an asset. Brock, the roguishly handsome son of merchants, is confident he'll be welcomed into the ranks of the Merchants Guild. But just as it seems the boys' dreams have come true, their lives take a startling turn...and they find themselves members of the perilous Adventurers Guild.
Why read it: This start of a thrilling new series is sure to be a hit with readers who like their fantasies clever and action-packed, with tons of humor and heart.
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| TBH, This Is SO Awkward by Lisa GreenwaldWhat it's about: Sometimes, emojis speak louder than words. Sixth-grade BFFs Cecily, Prianka, and Gabrielle can't agree about making friends with new girl Victoria...until an accidental message to their group chat kicks up drama that none of them expected.
Why you might like it: Told through texts, notes, diary entries, and emails, this funny yet heartfelt series-starter will be relatable for anyone dealing with the ups and downs of middle school friendship. |
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Have Sword, Will Travel
by Garth Nix and Sean Williams
What it's about: Friends Eleanor and Odo are startled when they accidentally discover an enchanted sword that introduces itself as Hildebrand Shining Foebiter (AKA Biter). Talkative Biter is just as eager for adventure as aspiring knight Eleanor, and together they convince the reluctant Odo to join them on a dangerous quest.
Why you might like it: If you're looking for an entertaining twist on traditional fantasy, don't miss Have Sword, Will Travel.
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The assassin's curse
by Kevin Sands
What it's about: Christopher Rowe is back and there are more puzzles, riddles, and secrets to uncover in this third novel of the award-winning Blackthorn Key series. In the third heart-pounding installment of the award-winning series, Christopher, Tom and Sally face new codes, puzzles and traps as they race to find the hidden treasure before someone else is murdered.
Who it's for: Fans of the first two books in the Blackthorn Key series and other alternate history novels.
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| The Bone Sparrow by Zana FraillonWhat it's about: Though his family once lived in Myanmar, Subhi only knows the Australian refugee detention center where he was born. It's a filthy, violent place where Subhi's only escape is his imagination. When local girl Jimmie finds her way into the center, Subhi agrees to read to her, sparking a secret friendship.
You might also like: Linda Sue Park's A Long Walk to Water, another realistic, heart-twisting read about young refugees.
Award buzz: Finalist for the Children's Book Council of Australia 2017 Book of the Year. |
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| The Inquisitor's Tale: Or, the Three Magical Children and Their Holy Dog by Adam Gidwitz; illuminated by Hatem AlyWhat it's about: Okay, so the dog dies -- but don't worry, she comes right back to life! It's just one of the many miracles in this story about three unlikely friends who flee persecution in medieval France and face enemies ranging from a farting dragon to King Louis IX.
Why you might like it: "Illuminated" with lively drawings and told by multiple characters, The Inquisitor's Tale is an unusual, funny, and unforgettable story of faith and friendship.
Award buzz: A 2017 Newbery honor book. |
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| We Are All Made of Molecules by Susin NielsenWhat it's about: After their single parents move in together, brilliant but awkward Stewart feels excited to have a sister, while popular Ashley -- already stressed about hiding the fact that her parents split because her dad's gay -- is embarrassed by her almost-stepbrother.
Why you might like it: With Stewart and Ashley taking turns narrating, you get to experience both sides of this honest (and hilarious) story about a complicated family.
Award buzz: Finalist for the 2015 Governor General's Award. |
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| Ghost by Jason ReynoldsStarring: Castle "Ghost" Cranshaw, a guy with a troubled past and a temper as quick as his feet. Joining a local track team gives him an unexpected sense of belonging, but Ghost isn't sure he can live up to the coach's rule about avoiding "altercations" at school.
Series alert: Short, powerful, and totally authentic, Ghost kicks off the TRACK series, which continues with Patina and (coming in April) Sunny.
Award buzz: Finalist for the 2016 National Book Award. |
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Contact your librarian for more great books!
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