Saturday, September 12, 2020

Summer Reading 2020 A Deadly Education: Lesson One of the Scholomance

 


If you have read any of Novik's other books such as Uprooted or Spinning Silver, then you know that she writes complex characters and gratifyingly complex plots. In this case you might try to imagine that Hogwarts meets The Maze Runner. That wouldn't begin to cover it, but would at least give you an inkling of the setting. 

The Scholomance is a school for young magic users. Once you are inside, you do not come out until unless you graduate. There are no teachers, no adults at all, so you may want to add a dollop of Lord of the Flies to your mental recipe. Since the presence of so many magic users draws the mals (maleficaria - "nasty things that routinely come after wizards looking for a meal"), students get plenty of practice on their offensive and defensive spells. They also form alliances, figure out who they are going to throw to the mals to make their own escape, etc. 

The character El is the narrator. She is smart, snarky, and not good at social skills. One of the students finally explains that El makes others feel as if they are out in their best outfit without an umbrella and suddenly realize it is about to rain. That would put a damper on forming any friendships, you must admit. El's mother lives in a yurt in a commune in Wales and actually named her daughter Galadriel. El jokes that she is "the 'love me and despair' version" of Galadriel from the movies.

Without giving away any spoilers, let me just say that this book takes place in the junior year of El and her classmates. They deal with mal attacks in the hallways, library, shop class, even the dining hall. Those who come from large magical enclaves (yes, those are as ritzy and posh as they sound), have a head-start on the alliances and power brokering that will help them to survive past graduation, while El and the other who are loners or from smaller groups must be especially clever to stay alive.

The characters are from around the world - London, New York, Bangkok, Shanghai, and Dubai are just a few of the enclaves represented in the student body. The descriptions of the coursework, physical structure of the school, and how magic works are all well done and consistent. The maneuvering within and between the groups is like high school cliques on steroids. And along with the danger and deception, there are also really funny moments. An example would be the snack vending machine that randomly gives out items that are "usually aged, and sometimes inedibly ancient. Once I (El) got a military ration from World War I...Aadhya got ...a completely fresh salmon onigiri dated this very morning." How do you deal with something that randomly absurd? 

If you enjoy stories of young wizards, especially if they are still learning their craft and trying to survive school (quite literally in this case), and figuring out friendships and relationships in general - then pick this up when it hits the shelves on September 29. You will be in for a treat.

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Summer Reading 2020 For Beautiful Black Boys Who Believe in a Better World

 

Michael Waters shares in his author's note that this story arises from experiences of his own family and his own son's questioning of events. In the book, Jeremiah hears about incidents of racism and gun violence and is not ready to talk. But he watches and listens, and when he does finally come to his parents with questions, they are there for him. The things Jeremiah plans to do - march, pray, donate money, stand up to stop bullies - are all things that children can do.

The discussion guide provided in the back matter will be useful to both teachers and parents as they try to help children make sense of what they see in the news or in their neighborhoods. Young people reading the book may have questions about the various incidents mentioned in the story, which are all real events that can be researched. Adults should read the book first and make use of the discussion guide to be sure they are ready when those young readers come to them with questions.

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Wednesday, September 9, 2020

Summer Reading 2020 Paola Santiago and the River of Tears


Any book from Rick Riordan Presents probably needs no introduction or book-talking to make it appealing to readers. Here are my thoughts anyway. Paola's story deals with Mexican and Southwestern folklore such as chupacabras and the legend of La Llorona (the Crying Woman). But it also deals with racial prejudice, differences between economic classes, immigration services, and the difficulty of growing up.

Paola relies on science because she dislikes and distrusts her  mother's Tarot cards, incense, candles, and other "superstitious garbage that didn't work." Focusing on hard facts and researching scientific phenomena help Pao to feel in control and as if she is standing on her own, separate from her mother's beliefs. But when her friend Emma disappears and Pao's off dreams seem to give her clues to what happened, she might have to be more open-minded about spiritual things.

With some help from her friend Dante (despite their recently weird boy/girl awareness messing up their comfrotable friendship), Pao decides she will have to rescue Emma. After all, the police are notorious for not taking Latinx kids seriously, so they are on their own. Well, except there may be other forces trying to put an end to the creepy happenings along the Gila River. Can Pao and Dante trust these strangers with their friend's safety?

The story perfectly captures the way teens (and even preteens) try to distance themselves from their parents by embracing different values. With Pao it is science versus spiritualism, but it can take many forms. It also shows the awkwardness that can slip into boy-girl friendships as the friends realize they may also have romantic feelings. And there is the pain and resentment of friends that are growing up and beginning to find interests and new friends outside that tight bond that has always been there. 

Mejia has perfectly captured that rocky area of middle school when kids are stuck between the childhood years and the teen years, still trying to hang onto what is comfortable but also wanting to strike out on their own. Trying to deal with all of that would be hard enough, but then there are the recent kidnappings in the area, Emma's disappearance, La Llorona and the other supernatural creatures, money problems, ICE raids on their neighbors, and it seems too much even for someone of Pao's determination.

Those who are new to the imprint will want to try out the other authors in Rick Riordan Presents. Those who are already fans will welcome this new addition and eagerly await the next book in the series. 

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Summer Reading 2020 Kind of a Big Deal

Josie was kind of a big deal in high school. She sang the lead in all the musicals and her drama teacher convinced her that she could make it on Broadway. But life in New York is harder than senior year in Arizona, and the directors weren't casting her for any parts. So she took a job as a nanny and moved with the child and her mother to Montana. Isn't that what everyone does when their life falls apart? Okay, maybe not. 

As things continue to spiral out of control...best friend having a great time in college and not always available with a shoulder to cry on, boyfriend acting distant and not answering his phone, mom no help at all, credit card bills to pay...Josie just wants to feel in command of her destiny again. So when a book recommended by the sales clerk at the local bookstore actually pulls her into the story and lets her become a character, is it a mental breakdown or magic? 

The sense of life spiralling out of control is familiar to many of us, even in the teen years. Trying to decide on college and career, friend and dating drama, money problems, it can all add up. But imagine that combined with the gut-wrenching fear that you have peaked in high school and it is all downhill from there. Somehow, becoming the lead character in a tawdry romance or a post-apocalyptic adventure might seem tempting, especially if you can use your will power to steer the course of the story and affect its outcome. It might even be tempting enough to make you want to stay in the story permanently.

As we read along and watch Josie floundering to figure things out, we want her to make all the right choices and stay in the real world to face her fears. Somewhere along the way, we realize that we have been pulled into the story - Josie's story. And we don't want to leave it until we know how it will end.

Be prepared to read this in one sitting. 
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Monday, September 7, 2020

A Little Spark Awareness Tour




GIVEAWAY

 Enter for a chance to win the A Little Spark prize pack.
One (1) grand prize winner receives:
  • A hardcover copy of A Little Spark, autographed by author Chris Parsons.
  • A downloadable audiobook of A Little Spark.
  • A Little Spark USB drive with the A Little Spark music album.
  • One set of Apple AirPods Pro for listening to the outstanding audiobook and music!
Two (2) winners receive:
  • A hardcover copy of A Little Spark, autographed by author Chris Parsons.
  • A downloadable audiobook of A Little Spark.
Giveaway begins August 24, 2020, at 12:01 A.M. MT and ends September 24, 2020, at 11:59 P.M. MT.
ABOUT THE BOOK

Written by Chris Parsons
Illustrated by Mike Motz
Publisher’s Synopsis: When the survival of their hometown is threatened, two unlikely comrades join forces on a quest to defeat a dangerous enemy and bring back the only one who can save them all.
Beyond the frozen mountains there lies an oasis from the frigid cold and the howling winds. A place the animals call Lake Zuron. What a wonderful place, happy creatures of all kinds, living in harmony and warmth thanks to their very own fire-breathing dragon named Daniel.
But one day everything changed when the unthinkable happened. The Dragon fire goes out and immediately the air begins to chill. Things were not looking good but just when all hope was lost, an unlikely hero steps up. Join Spark the mouse on an adventure of a lifetime as he and his friends do their part to save their town from an icy demise.
With the magical power of Daniel, the Dragon there could be hope. But first, they must face and defeat a dangerous enemy, the vile beasts who own these mountains where nobody passes through.
Along this journey maybe you will discover that it’s that little Spark in each of us that really matters, and that a little Spark could save them from the coming cold. The story reminds us that we all need something in life every day to ignite our passion and spirit – to help the world be a “warmer” place and to look for ways to “Be That Spark.”
Ages 7+ | Publisher: Zuroam Media | October 1, 2020 | ISBN-13: 978-1735145501
OFFICIAL LINKS

About the Author

Chris Parsons grew up in the small fishing village of Flatrock, Newfoundland where he was surrounded by storytellers. When he became a father, he began creating his own children’s stories, and soon he was sharing them with a wider audience.
Over time, his audience grew up, but he continued to create his stories and colorful characters mostly for his own enjoyment. One day he had a flash of inspiration about a little mouse named Spark and began to create the world of A Little Spark.
Today, Chris lives in Dallas. He has left the high-tech world of innovation and business development behind and is focused on his real passion – to create new meaningful experiences for children centered around powerful and engaging stories like ” A little Spark.”
Together with his wife, Kathleen, daughter, Maggie, and son, Kealan, they share a love for all God’s creatures.

About the Narrator

Brandon McInnis is a voice actor and singer known primarily for his work on animation and video games. He voices Sir Nighteye in My Hero Academia, Ganos in Dragon Ball Super, Finral Roulacase in Black Clover, Asagiri Gen in Dr. Stone, Yuna D. Kaito in Cardcaptor Sakura: Clear Card, Frodo Baggins in Lord of the Rings Online, Patrick Phelps in Black Butler, Sonosuke Izayoi in Danganronpa 3, Erlang Shen in SMITE, and many more.
With a deep love for music production and originally trained as an opera singer, Brandon also produces music for release on YouTube and Spotify. He can be followed on Twitter, TikTok, and Instagram: @BranMci

About the Illustrator

Mike Motz is a children’s book illustrator and publishing professional based out of Toronto, Canada. Motz has helped writers around the world fulfill their dreams of publishing their works. To date, Motz has been responsible for the creation of the artwork for over 300 self-published children’s books.

About the Music Producer

Bruce Faulconer is a musician, composer, and record producer based in Dallas, Texas. He is the owner and founder of Faulconer Productions Music, and CakeMix Recording Studio. Faulconer writes music for orchestra, various instrumental and choral groups, along with the music for feature films, and TV series, including the anime Dragon Ball Z. He recently completed twelve songs for A Little Spark, included in a new audiobook, an interactive children’s book, and an animated feature film in development.
He resides in Dallas with his wife Lisa and is the father of two sons.
PURCHASE LINK
Before October 1st, pre-order your copy, email the team at Zuroam Media, and they’ll give you the audiobook free so you can enjoy it while you wait for the book to arrive. You can find all the email address and links to your favorite bookstore here: https://bethatspark.com/shop/.
MY REVIEW
A Little Spark is a story that has something for everyone. There is friendship, adventure, danger, magic, and even love. It doesn’t matter that the characters are animals in an imaginary land, the lessons they learn translate into everyday life for readers. Spark is a small mouse who dreams that he can be something bigger than the role of street sweeper that tradition says he will have to fill. And when Daniel the Dragon’s fire goes out, it is the opportunity to prove Spark’s beliefs are correct.

Picture small but mighty heroes like characters from Disney’s “The Rescuers” and The Mouse Watch, or the intrepid protagonist of The Tale of Despereaux. They do not let size stop them, and neither does Spark. With only a grouchy weasel for a companion, a coin his father gave him, and a few words from Daniel the Dragon, he sets out to cross the mountains and save his town. Along the way he faces incredible danger, suspicion, and also the offer of friendship and cooperation. Perhaps a little spark of courage and determination are all anyone needs to attempt something big.

The creative team has put together an interactive experience that young readers will enjoy. There are illustrations to help bring the text to life, an audiobook with delightful performances of each character, and an album of songs (that can be accessed through QR codes). Interactive pages at the end of the book offer readers the chance to take selfies with the characters, listen to messages from some of the characters, or reflect on life lessons from the story.

If you have young readers who would enjoy this adventure, or who could use some encouragement to believe in themselves and be that spark to warm their community - be on the lookout for this book when it is released on October 1st - or preorder now!

TOUR SCHEDULE

August 24
The Children's Book Review
Book Review
August 25
Jrsbookreviews
Book Review
August 26
Over Coffee Conversations
Giveaway
August 27
Heart to Heart
Giveaway
August 28
The Children's Book Review
Interview
August 30
Barbara Ann Mojica's Blog
Book Review
August 31
Tales of A Wanna-Be SuperHero Mom
Book Review
September 1
A Dream Within A Dream
Book Review
September 3
Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers
Guest Post
September 8
Fairview Elementary School (Library)
Book Review
September 9
icefairy's Treasure Chest
Book Review
September 15
Library Lady's Kid Lit
Interview
The Fairview Review is participating in this blog tour in partnership with The Children’s Book Review and Zuroam Media.
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Sunday, September 6, 2020

Bradley's Dragons Awareness Tour



GIVEAWAY

Enter for a chance to win a Bradley’s Dragons prize pack!
One (1) grand prize winner receives:
  • A hardcover copy of Bradley’s Dragons, autographed by Patrick Matthews.
  • A Dragon Suncatcher, by the Glassy Geek.
Eight (8) winners receive:
  • A hardcover copy of Bradley’s Dragons, autographed by Patrick Matthews.
Giveaway begins September 1, 2020, at 12:01 A.M. MT and ends September 30, 2020, at 11:59 P.M. MT.
OFFICIAL LINKS

ABOUT THE BOOK

Publisher’s Synopsis: The Hunters are Coming
The first time a hunter came for him, Bradley Nash was only nine years old. That was three years ago.
Now, he lives with his family in a Florida trailer park. He doesn’t remember the attack, doesn’t know anything about hunters, or dragons, or even magic.
As his twelfth birthday approaches, however, his peaceful life starts falling apart.
The hunters are coming, and if Bradley doesn’t figure out exactly who and what he is, everything he’s ever known will be destroyed.
“The novel teems with drama from the first page, and readers will be swept up by intrigue and action.” —The Children’s Book Review
Ages 8-12 | Publisher: Second Story Up | July 7, 2020 | ISBN-13: 978-1733077743
PURCHASE LINK


ABOUT THE AUTHOR
A newspaper columnist, editor, and award-winning game designer, Patrick Matthews’ first novel was published by Scholastic in 2013. Bradley’s Dragons is his third published novel. Mr. Matthews writes fast-paced fiction that takes readers on exciting adventures but also gives them a chance to think about the world around them, to consider hard questions before they need to be answered.

GUEST POST
Dragons in Children’s Stories
by Patrick Matthews

I think each of us has a compelling memory of either reading or being read to.

One of mine is listening to my mother read The Hobbit, and hearing Smaug’s first appearance. Smaug is the sort of character you don’t forget. He’s vivid, intriguing, and terrifying. Even though he doesn’t show up in the story until chapter twelve, he dominates the story. When he does show up, he takes your breath away, particularly if you’re a little guy listening to your mom read.

Children’s stories have come a long way since The Hobbit. Dragons are no longer limited to being the elemental forces of evil that Smaug was. Instead, they appear as everything from curious companions to mystical sages. Some stories are even told from their point of view.

These days, dragons are featured in books, movies, artwork, television shows, and even video games. But why? What is it about dragons that makes them so intriguing? Why aren’t we reading as much about unicorns, gryphons, or giants?

There’s no denying the cool factor of giant flying lizards. Add in breathing fire or doing magic, and you’ve got quite an impressive creature. I think our fascination stems from something much deeper, though.

As kids, the world around us is big. Everywhere we look, there are creatures more powerful and more informed than we are. Adults, in particular, can be inscrutable, and the things they do bear all the hallmarks of magic. Remember the first time you rode in an elevator? The doors closed in one place and opened in another. Or how about your first ride up that scary device known as an escalator?

Adults do these things with no sense of wonder, at all. They explain to you how dangerous it is to ride in a car, and how important it is to have your seat belt buckled, and then they blithely risk your life just to pick up a bottle of milk.

Trees tower above you, coming from . . . where? Yes, your parents explained about seeds, but does that really make any sense? You have to eat to get bigger. How does a tree get so big when all it eats is sunshine?

And what is a modern phone, if not completely inexplicable?

To them, and to most of us, the modern world is all magic. We don’t understand why things work. We just accept that they do and move on with our lives. It is, in that respect, the worst kind of magic. It’s magic with no sense of wonder.

Enter the dragon. It’s mysterious and magical, sometimes frightening, but always inspiring. Even when portrayed as being evil, dragons generate awe and terror. When they’re friendly, they bring out our sense of wonder, often mixed with gratefulness, compassion, and love.

Do you recognize any of those emotions within yourself?

As inhuman as dragons are, they are also completely familiar. We understand, at our most fundamental level, what it means to feel the emotions they inspire.

When Scholastic published Dragon Run (my first novel), I regularly spoke at elementary and middle schools. “I’m not saying your teachers are dragons,” I would say during a part of the presentation, “but I’m also not saying they aren’t.” It always generated nervous laughter, from both the kids and the adults.

That connection is what makes dragons so effective in literature. We may not see giant lizards flying through the skies of our world, or ever get the chance to fly on the back of one, but we understand what those things would feel like.

There are dragons all around us. We just don’t recognize them.

TOUR SCHEDULE

September 1
The Children's Book Review
Book Review
September 2
Jrsbookreviews
Book Review
September 3
Glass of Wine, Glass of Milk
Interview
September 4
Tales of A Wanna-Be SuperHero Mom
Book Review
September 7
Fairview Elementary School (Library)
Guest Post
September 8
Word Spelunking
Interview
September 9
ShootingStarsMag
Interview
September 10
Prologue
Book Review
September 11
Library Lady's Kid Lit
Book Review
September 14
The Children's Book Review
Interview
September 15
icefairy's Treasure Chest
Book Review
September 16
Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers
Guest Post
September 17
Confessions of a Book Addict
Giveaway

The Fairview Review is participating in the blog tour in partnership with The Children’s Book Review and Second Story Up.
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