These are some books that I would like to recommend this month:
Novels:
One of the MG books I enjoyed most this year (along with El Deafo) is THE CATEGORICAL UNIVERSE OF CANDICE PHEE, by Barry Jonsberg. I think this book suffered by being released so soon after Counting by 7s, as the description might sound somewhat similar. The main character, Candice, is likely on the autism spectrum and is seen as beyond weird by her classmates. But her quirky way of dealing with family, friends, enemies, tragedy, adversity, and teachers, along with her warm-hearted intentions, makes for a rich and rewarding read. I almost didn't pick it up, but I'm so glad I did!
CLARIEL, by Garth Nix, is a long-awaited prequel to his fabulous Abhorsen trilogy. Clariel, a loner who wants only to hunt in the Great Forest, is forced to move to the capital city of Belisaere, where strange people and customs stifle her. When she is attacked by a Free Magic creature, she discovers her own powers as a Berserk, and finds herself increasingly drawn to Free Magic sorcery. You can enjoy this even if you haven't yet gotten to the rest of the Abhorsen books, but why not just read them all? In fact, the audio is an excellent idea, performed perfectly by Tim Curry. (YA)
And HOLD ME CLOSER, NECROMANCER, by Lish McBride, is a really fun read. It's the only zombie entertainment I have allowed myself, and I'm glad I did (despite a few nights of icky zombie dreams). College dropout Sam finds out that he's a necromancer and has made a powerful enemy. It's witty, there's a lot of action, and a severed head gets to deliver many of the best jokes. (YA)
Easy Reader:
NUMBER ONE SAM, by Greg Pizzoli, is a full color easy reader by the author/illustrator of The Watermelon Seed. It's clear and concise, and tells a relevant story. I'm a big fan.
Picture Books:
WHO'S NEXT DOOR? by Mayuko Kishira and Jun Takabatake, tells the story of Chicken, who waits--and waits--to meet his new neighbor. It features bright engaging art, beautifully designed. Chicken's body language says it all.
Another winning chicken picture book is PEGGY, A BRAVE CHICKEN ON A BIG ADVENTURE, by Anna Walker. This art is stunning in a completely different way from the art in Who's Next Door. Peggy is rendered in a more realistic style of chicken with inks and collage. Peggy has a nice orderly life, until a gust of wind picks her up and carries her to the big city, where she unflappably takes a tour. When she misses home, she uses her mighty chicken brain to find the way.
And, finally, SHH! WE HAVE A PLAN, by Chris Haughton, demonstrates how a little kindness can be more effective than a complicated campaign of aggression. Four friends set out with nets. When they happen upon a bird, three of them tiptoe, climb, and swish their nets to no avail. The only one who gets close has brought plenty of breadcrumbs along.
Happy reading!!!!
--Lynn
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