Every history, literature, and Bible teacher should have this graphic novel biography on their shelf! John Hendrix artfully tells the story of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, the theologian who helped plan multiple plots to assassinate Hitler, his internal struggle with morality, and his heartache over the deterioration of his country. With powerful graphics, striking symbolism, and straight forward language Hendrix also tells of the bone-chilling rise of Adolf Hitler. Haunting illustrations, striking hand-lettering, and brilliant use of color help readers better understand the history, the conflict, and the connection between these two men. Often quoting Bonhoeffer directly, Hendrix further adds authenticity to this well-researched work. THE FAITHFUL SPY (Amulet Books 2019) contains interesting back matter for those curious to learn more. But mostly it reminds its readers to speak up for what is right and stand up for those being wronged, no matter the cost. 

Lisa Jobe's adorable picture book debut CAN I KEEP IT? (Page Street Kids; 2019) transported me back to my childhood, when I watched my big brother set traps with cardboard boxes, sticks and string for ever-elusive birds. The repetitive structure, relatable content, and amazing paper cut-out illustrations make this a perfect book for the preschool crowd. In the classroom, it will come in handy for lessons regarding wild and tame animals. Children will love searching for the orange cat among the pages!

 NINE MONTHS strikes the perfect balance between age-appropriate information about the development of a baby, and preparing an older sibling for the arrival of a new family member.  The book features Jason Chin's fantastic, scientifically correct illustrations on each left hand page, coupled with a loving family preparing for the new baby on each right hand page.  Economic language use, steady rhythm, and gentle rhyme make NINE MONTHS a comforting read to share with young children.  However, life-size illustrations and informative back matter provide educational tie-ins that take this book well beyond the preschool crowd. NINE MONTHS was named a 2019 Boston Globe- Horn Book Non-Fiction Honor book.
Visit 24 Carrot Writing for an interview with Miranda Paul. ​http://www.24carrotwriting.com/-blog/an-interview-with-author-miranda-paul

The poetry anthology HOOP KINGS (Candlewick 2004) is a must for any language-arts teacher's classroom. Snappy, rap-rhythm poems about basketball greats will have even the most reluctant student-poets sit up and take notice. Poems from this book can be used to teach concepts such as alliteration, metaphor, rhythm and typography with slam dunk material. Readers who enjoy Kwame Alexander's books, will love HOOP KINGS.

Middle Grade
THE EMPEROR'S OSTRICH is a humorous, fantasy adventure about a milkmaid looking for her lost cow, but finding friends instead, and a spoiled emperor who learns what it means to govern. And an ostrich. Who finds a cow.
Julie Berry masterfully weaves together a plot that is entertaining, unpredictable and completely satisfying.  Young readers will revel in  laugh-out-loud twists, unconventional language use, and endearing characters.
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This book is a great classroom read for 4th and 5th graders, with themes such as loyalty,  perseverance and greed to discuss.