Kelsey Green, Reading Queen

Wilson, a third grader, struggles with multiplication. He wishes he were as smart as the other kids in his class, or even his little brother, Kipper, who is a kindergarten math wiz. Wilson perseveres, however, and not only passes his times table test but gains a pet!

Annika wants her math-hating friends to enjoy math as much as she does. Feeding answers to math problems to friends hurts more but using math to save the class carnival is another story! Recognizable characters identifiable situations make a plausible, engaging school story.

Gus despairs of coming up with something interesting and impressive for his second grade class’ show-and-tell, until he gets a great idea while visiting his Grandpa. Gus and his wise grandfather share each other’s company and experiences in other books including basketball jitters and Halloween fears.

It is Grandpa’s sage advice that helps Gus overcome his fear and play the best game of basketball he can. Gus learns to play on the court just like when he practices in Grandpa’s driveway. The gentle tone of the story is reflected in the illustrations to tell a tale that rings true. (Look for other Gus and Grandpa stories by Claudia Mills.)

When his teacher assigns a science project, 3rd grader Oliver is enthusiastic about doing it independently. His rather overprotective parents, however, have different ideas. How Oliver and his newfound friend and classmate overcome the obstacles makes for engaging reading with lots of laughs.

Join a young boy and his father on a daring journey from Mexico to Texas to find a new life. Theyll need all the resilience and courage they can muster to safely cross the border (la frontera) and to make a home for themselves in a new land. Based on co-author Alva’s own experience as a young boy. Back matter includes information on immigration, a history of the U.S. and Mexican border, and photos of Alva’s family and hometown.

Mason winds up joining the basketball team under relentless encouragement from his best friend, Brody, even though Mason knows he’s a klutz. The disasters mount especially when the class bully joins an opposing team. Children will appreciate the situations Mason finds himself in and enjoy the gratifying resolutions.