Fresh Reads, Honest reviews, Educator-approved
Marta lives quietly in the attic of the Hotel Balzaar while her mother works as a maid. One day a mysterious countess arrives with a parrot she claims was once a general. She promises Marta seven stories, each told in order. As Marta listens, she begins to sense that the tales might be connected to her missing father. Each unfinished story leaves her wondering what is real and what is imagined as she searches for answers hidden within the countess’s words.
A celebration of creativity and teamwork, The Cartoonists Club encourages students to embrace their artistic voices. With relatable characters and classroom potential, it beautifully highlights the power of storytelling through art. A perfect read to inspire young creators to pick up a pencil and share their world.
The Goldfish Boy by Lisa Thompson is a thoughtful mystery that weaves empathy and mental health into a gripping story. As Matthew battles his fears and faces the disappearance of a neighborhood toddler, readers are invited to explore what it means to truly see others. Perfect for upper elementary and middle-grade readers ready for meaningful discussions about loss, healing, and courage.
In The Puppets of Spelhorst, five puppets dream of freedom and purpose as they pass from owner to owner until finding themselves part of a magical play that fulfills each of their secret wishes. Through imagination, friendship, and self-discovery, Kate DiCamillo reminds readers that every story, no matter how small, holds meaning and heart.
Bored and stuck at home after an accident, Carter starts watching his town’s police camera feeds just to pass the time. But when harmless curiosity turns into a full-blown obsession, Carter finds himself caught in mysteries he may not be ready to solve—and learning that snooping always comes with a price.