Sponsored by Best Nerds Forever, published by Jimmy Patterson Books.
Being “nerdy” in middle school isn’t a bad thing–I should know! Me and my friends are nerds. Some of us are geeky, but we’re also really funny and never boring. One of my friends is even a jock but not a jerk. We don’t quite fit. But we’re fun. We’re a riot. We’re total chaos. And we own it–until one of us is targeted by a truck driving maniac. It will take all of our nerdiest skills to Sherlock Holmes our way out of one dangerous mess. Never be afraid to unleash your inner nerd!
Hey readers! I’m back with another week of new kids books.
Fred Gets Dressed by Peter Brown
In this fun picture book, Fred wanders through his parents’ closet in search of the perfect ensemble. He tries out his dad’s clothes but doesn’t like them so much, so he moves on to his mom’s clothes and gets to dabble in her makeup and jewelry with some help from his parents.
The Bruce Swap by Ryan T. Higgins
One of my favorite picture book series, featuring the grumpy bear Bruce, has a new book this month! In this one, Bruce’s housemates wish that Bruce was more fun, and they’re shocked when their wish appears to come true. But it’s not Bruce after all, but his fun cousin Kevin.
Small Room, Big Dreams: The Journey of Julián and Joaquin Castro by Monica Brown and Mirelle Ortega
This charming picture book biography of Julián and Joaquin Castro takes readers back to the beginning, where they were shaped by their grandmother and mother to become advocates for the betterment of their community.
Hair Twins by Raakhee Mirchandani and Holly Hatam
This sweet picture book follows a Sikh father and daughter in a fun celebration of their hair. In accordance with tradition, both wear it long, and sometimes they’ll even wear it in the same bun and become hair twins.
The Last Fallen Star by Graci Kim
This fun middle grade novel features a sweet, witchy fantasy about two sisters who cast a spell that goes horribly awry. While Hattie is turning 13 and soon to be initiated into their clan, meaning magic of her own, Riley’s adopted and nonmagical and so not allowed to participate. But when Hattie performs a spell to share her magic with Riley, it goes wrong and puts their entire community, and Hattie, in danger.
Finding Junie Kim by Ellen Oh
This middle grade novel follows Junie, a middle schooler dealing with racism in her suburban town. Coping with depression, Junie finds a therapist she likes, and when she’s given a school assignment to interview an elder, her talks with her grandfather about his childhood during the Korean War give Junie new perspective and courage.
Until next week! – Chelsea