Fresh Reads, Honest reviews, Educator-approved
Cannons, scabs, and “numbskulls”! Follow thirteen-year-old Elsbeth as she navigates a war-torn Boston plagued by a terrifying smallpox epidemic. This fast-paced survival story tackles the fascinating history of early medicine and the grit of a girl determined to find her father while avoiding the orphanage. It’s a powerful, period-accurate look at our nation’s chaotic birth.
Can a Muslim girl play Mary in a Catholic Nativity play? Sixth-grader Mariam navigates the “ambassador’s burden” at her new school while dealing with a family health crisis and the awkwardness of puberty. This sweet, Judy Blume-esque story is a groundbreaking look at interfaith connection, identity, and the discovery that faith is more about common ground than rigid lines.
One karate move, ten broken toes, and one legendary curse! Sixth-grader Matt must navigate the hilarious and painful “curveballs” of puberty and local myths. It’s a relatable, soccer-filled journey about the power of a genuine apology and the chaos of growing up. Perfect for fans of Diary of a Wimpy Kid!
Survival is just the beginning. Eighth-grader Bea must navigate life with cerebral palsy and the heavy trauma of a school shooting. Through the healing power of equine therapy, Bea finds the strength to move from helplessness to advocacy.
A thimble-sized bear with a century-sized heart! Pocket Bear, a WWI good-luck charm finds a new life in a repair shop for “tossed and treasured” toys. This heartfelt story of friendship between a tiny bear, a cat burglar, and a young refugee beautifully bridges historical trauma with modern hope. It is a powerful reminder that no one and nothing is ever truly beyond a second chance.