If you liked this:
Try:
Pirate vs Pirate by Mary Quattlebaum, illustrated by Alexandra Boiger; Hyperion; $16.99
This rhyming pirate showdown is both a battle of the sexes and a lesson in collaboration.
The Three Ninja Pigs by Corey Rosen Schwartz, illustrated by Dan Santat; Putnam; $16.99
A high kicking, kiya-ing twist on the a classic that’s sure to please the most energetic readers.
When Dinosaurs Came with Everything; Elise Broach, illustrated by David Small; Atheneum Young Readers; $17.99
Errand day has never been so exciting because today only when real, live dinosaurs come with everything!
Stuck by Oliver Jeffers; Philomel; $17.99
In this hilariously improbable story a boy manages to get a giant steam ship, a blue whale, and a firetruck (among other things) stuck in a tree.
- Erin
Readers ages 10 to 15 who like adventure, personal challenges, and a hint of mystery should get their hands on Young Samurai: The Way of the Warrior, by Chris Bradford. Although the cover of the book looks somewhat fearsome, the story has characters with whom you can readily identify – boys and girls who care strongly about bravery, honor and loyalty. For more about the book, see my review in the Spring ’09 edition of Kids’ Next, Inspired Recommendations for Kids from Indie Booksellers – which I’m proud to say also contains reviews by Hooray For Books! co-owner Trish Brown and senior staffer Megan Graves.
For girls ages 12 and older who simply can’t get enough adventure, Eon: Dragoneye Reborn, by Alison Goodman, is a must-read. Eon has been undergoing grueling training in hopes of being selected as an apprentice to one of the 12 energy dragons that keep the world from chaos. What few people know, however, is that Eon is actually a teenage girl – and no females are allowed to practice dragon magic. In fact, if her secret is revealed, it means certain death.
