Fresh Reads, Honest reviews, Educator-approved
Sunny is back and facing the most confusing math problem of all: pre-teen romance. In the 6th volume of this beloved series, Sunny navigates the shift from “just friends” to “dating” while tackling academic pressures in the late 70s. It’s a relatable, light-hearted look at persistence and staying true to yourself when everyone else is pushing you to grow up too fast. Perfect for fans of the series and reluctant readers!
Lola: The Bracelet of Courage is a vibrant, rhyming tale that addresses childhood anxiety with grace and magic. When Lola the mermaid loses her “lucky” bracelet, she must learn that true bravery comes from within. With stunning illustrations and a “Fun Fact” section about sea life, this picture book is a perfect tool for parents and teachers to help children build resilience and self-confidence.
Camp Lessons, the first book in The Sugar Squad Chronicles, is an inspiring story of a young boy with Type 1 Diabetes who gains confidence and independence at a specialized summer camp. This empowering read shows children the struggles and successes of managing diabetes, emphasizing friendship, self-advocacy, and the importance of educating peers.
Cat on the Run in Cucumber Madness continues Princess Beautiful’s chaotic escape with humor, suspense, and quirky adventure. The reviewer highlights how the story blends fast action, high vocabulary, and expressive illustrations that keep young readers hooked. Princess Beautiful’s fear of cucumbers, her new friendship with Marv, and the nonstop twists make this installment fun and engaging for ages seven to ten.
Something Like Home is a heartfelt novel in verse that uses its poetic structure to give students a gentle, honest window into the themes of family, belonging, and resilience. This powerful story is a quick, engaging read perfect for sparking deep ELA discussions on character development and poetic structure in grades 4-6.