​Dr. Shanah Salter
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Book Reviews

Hello From Renn Lake

6/15/2020

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HELLO FROM RENN LAKE
By M. Weber Hurwitz


Thanks to the @kidlitexchange network for the review copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

This sweet middle-grade story centers on the effects of an algal bloom (caused by pollution) on a Wisconsin lake. It is told from two main points of view—the lake itself, and 12-year-old Annalise, a girl who holds the lake dear. 

The development of Annalise's character is well done, including the mysterious circumstances surrounding her entry into the world. Her mission to save the lake and her family's lakeside vacation rental business is believable and relatable and a great message for readers—children have the power to create change in the world.

The educational elements of the algal issue are explained in simple terms appropriate for middle-graders and the entire Renn Lake community's involvement and activism to improve the health of the waterway are encouraging and hopeful.

A perfect summer read!

@kidlitexchange #bookstagram #kidlitexchange #kidlit @randomhousekids #wendylambbooks @micheleweberhurwitz
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The Story Web

11/29/2019

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THE STORY WEB
By Megan Frazer Blakemore

Thanks to the @kidlitexchange network for the review copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

A contemporary story with touches of magic, THE STORY WEB largely follows the story of a young girl, Alice, who struggles to cope when her father goes away for treatment of depression/PTSD. His departure coincides with strange activities in the local community—forest animals come to town and an ice storm begins with no end in sight. It is said, these events are due to the break down of the story-web; a web woven by spiders from the telling of truthful tales. A web so crucial that without it, society will break down and the world will freeze.

This story is told from multiple points of view including the likable Alice, her two friends, and various forest animals. The action rises slowly and is charged with emotional intensity. It includes themes of family, friendship, the importance of truth/honesty, mental illness, and the impact of rumors/gossip/fear-mongering.

A great read for a quiet weekend or to fuel a deep classroom or family discussion.

@kidlitexchange #partner #bookstagram #kidlitexchange #kidlit @bloomsburypublishing @megbmore
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Weird Little Robots

8/7/2019

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WEIRD LITTLE ROBOTS
By Carolyn Crimi (Illustrated by Corinna Luyken)


Thanks to the @kidlitexchange network for the review copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

From acclaimed picture book writer, Carolyn Crimi, comes the sweet and quirky middle-grade novel, WEIRD LITTLE ROBOTS. A story about a lonely, robot-making eleven-year-old named Penny Rose who wishes for a friend but gets a whole lot more than she ever dreamed.

The gentle and wise narrator's voice will draw readers in from the first page and the rising action and unexpected events that occur as the plot unfolds will keep readers intrigued until the final word. The character's (both human and robot) are vividly captured by Crimi's words and Luyken's art and their choices, actions, and reactions are well explored. Their love of science, creating, and repurposing discarded objects adds an additional layer of intrigue and wonder to the story.

This delightful, early middle-grade story is a worthy addition to home bookshelves and classroom libraries. Buckle up your tool belt and enjoy!

Release Date: 10/1/2019

@kidlitexchange #partner #bookstagram #kidlitexchange #kidlit @carolyncrimi1228 #carolyncrimi @corinnaluyken @candlewickpress #weirdlittlerobots
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A Drop of Hope

4/9/2019

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A Drop of Hope by Keith Calabrese

T
hanks to the @kidlitexchange network for the review copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

If you've been searching for a middle-grade read full of inspiration and the power of small kindnesses, this is it. Set in a struggling small town, the story follows multiple sixth graders and their interactions with an old well said to grant wishes. Each character is as unique and memorable as the next and the way their stories and experiences interweave is brilliantly crafted. 

This is a page-turning read told from multiple points of view. Suitable for grades three and up. Get ready for intrigue, tension, adventure, and your heart to fill with hope and happiness.

@kidlitexchange #partner #bookstagram #kidlitexchange #kidlit #bookreview @scholasticinc #keithcalabrese
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Goat's Coat

3/10/2019

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Thanks to the @kidlitexchange network for the review copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

GOAT'S COAT

By Tom Percival (Illustrated by Christine Pym)

Release date: 12/4/18

I
n Goat's Coat, we meet a caring and resourceful goat who uses parts of his coat to help others in need. Percival's cleverly rhymed text pairs brilliantly with Pym's brightly colored illustrations. The power of kindness shines in this fun story. Perfect for small and large group story times, this book is sure to become a read-again favorite with children everywhere.

​@kidlitexchange #partner #bookstagram #kidlitexchange #kidlit @bloomsburypublishing @christinepym
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