Book Finder

Alvin Ho is back, and this time the young worrier is traveling to China with his family. Not only does Alvin worry, but his actions create worry for his dad and others. Readers, on the other hand, will find lots of humor and just may learn a bit about China, its greatest attractions and some Chinese history.

Tembo, a young elephant, explores the savannah but always responds when Bibi, her grandmother, calls. The large format and dramatic illustrations complement the comfortably repetitious narrative while presenting an elephant herd.

Lola wants a garden like the girl in her library book (“Mary, Mary, quite contrary,/how does your garden grow?”). Together with her mom, they get ready and plant and patiently await the flowers. Childlike illustrations capture Lola’s joy in the experience.

Crabby Crab is not happy with its claws or legs — but “we love you just the way you are, even when you’re crabby!” Readers will also appreciate the title character’s silly ideas in Cowy Cow. Childlike humor in simple text and line and wash illustrations on colored pages are used in the appealing “Thingy Thing” series.

Join a diverse group of young children through winter, spring, summer and autumn in simple rhyming text and play-filled, mixed media illustrations. Rhyming words evoke the sound of each season that will read well aloud.

Posey learns about consequences firsthand when her much-loved toy is taken away in school. The gentle story is pleasantly narrated.

Bogle-catching in Victorian England is comes alive in this deliciously spooky tale effectively presented in an accented voice and a capella singing.

The first in the series of adventures shared between Annabelle Doll and Tiffany Funcraft and their families is well-voiced in a light British accent.

Soon after 13-year old Zane travels from New Hampshire to visit his great-grandmother, Miss Trissy, in New Orleans, disaster strikes. He and Bandy, his dog, confront the storm and the natural and human disastrous aftermath when they are separated from Miss Trissy and make their way back to Zane’s family. This thought-provoking novel is taut and fast-paced.

An August day on the national Mall has been made famous by the powerful “I Have a Dream” speech given by Martin Luther King, Jr. But many others were there, too. Real and imagined voices from that day are presented in varied poems, bringing it into focus and reminding young readers that they “…can make a difference…[they] have a voice.”

In an attractive, sturdy package, readers are invited to learn about the history of sculpture and several prominent sculptors (such as Rodin and Duchamp). Then readers are invited to create their own cardboard structures, called “a maquette — a French word for a small study of the sculpture…” Ready-to-punch-out pieces and instructions are included.

Really peculiar critters (in which the author includes himself) make for an engaging and informative book. Each double page spread introduces unique but real animals and insects from around the globe. Included with the informal text are scientific names, distribution and detailed drawings of each creature.

The first in the Accelerati Trilogy, 14-year old Nick, his younger brother and his father have moved from Tampa (FL) to a ramshackle Victorian house in Colorado Springs. Peculiar things happen when items from the attic are sold. Could they really be inventions from inventor Nicola Tesla? Intrigue with plenty of humor and likeable characters in a fast-pace will leave readers awaiting the next book.

Sophisticated readers who have enjoyed books by two-time Newbery Medalist Katherine Paterson, can learn about the author’s life and the backstory for her novels. Black and white photographs open each chapter. The book concludes with the death of her beloved husband, John. Though often sophisticated, the stories may inspire rereading and the sharing of family stories.

The rumors of a Russian spy in Hazel’s small Vermont town and the threat of Communist infiltration are palpable to her. With the help of a new kid in town and a bit of spying, Hazel tries to uncover the goings-on. Though set in the 1950s, themes remain relevant in this fast-paced adventure.

Sisters, Marcelle and Coco, find a blind English soldier in the woods near their home in France. With the help of their older brother and his friend, Lt. Shepherd makes it across the Channel, leaving a small silver donkey and stories about the creature with the girls. Set during World War I, this is a timeless, gentle and hopeful story.

Meet the Mikes, both of whom grew up to study oceans, energy, and more. The science comes into focus as readers explore with the actual scientists working in the field and share their discoveries. For those interested in land-based issues, Beetle Busters: A Rogue Insect and the People Who Track It (opens in a new window) (Houghton) explores a voracious creature and its impact on the environment with an equally engaging personal perspective.

Foodies and cooking aficionados as well as those only marginally interested in food are sure to find something to enjoy in this handsomely formatted and enriching look at food. Recipes range from easy to more complex and are placed amid information and activities for the entire year.

An unnamed narrator dreams he has visited the studio of artist Henri Matisse where he meets the artist himself. Matisse’s words and mixed media illustration are used to explore Matisse’s paper cutouts briefly but effectively. Color, line and language introduce not only an artist but are sure to inspire further exploration.

Percy Jackson, son of Poseidon and a human woman (and title character in the Olympian series of novels) retells traditional Greek myths. His voice is informal and chatty, adding contemporary insight and drama. The tellings are punctuated by handsome, theatrical illustrations in a satisfyingly large format.

Everyone makes mistakes — even well-known people — which is why this collection of humorous and often insightful biographical sketches begins with a warning: “If you only want to see people at their best, this book isn’t for you…” as it reveals how 14 luminaries made mistakes. Black/white illustrations add humor and spirit.

Middle school is tough enough but what happens when your grandfather — a scientist who has uncovered some really interesting jellyfish properties — attends with you as a 13-year old? It’s a totally new experience! Told with verve and humor (and a touch of science), this is a coming-of-age tale for 11-year old Ellie and Melvin, her teenaged granddad.

The pioneering homesteading family, which includes the “Little House” books author, moved a great deal and is reflected in Laura’s books. Wilder fans and those interested in American history will be engaged by instructions for a corn husk doll and recipes for Johnnycakes, gingerbread and butter as well as the family’s story.

Misty Copeland, the African American Ballet Theater soloist, has an encouraging conversation with a young black aspiring ballerina: “darling child, don’t you know/you’re just where I started/let the sun shine on your face….” Stunning mixed media illustrations capture the movement of dance and emotions of hope.