Author Archives: bclyp

Frenemy Rivalry: A Review of Marya Khan and The Awesome Adventure Park

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Marya Khan and The Awesome Adventure Park 

Saadia Faruqi 

Illustrated by Ani Bushry 

Amulet Books 

Available March 26, 2024 

Ages 6-9  

 

Excited about spring break, Marya, Hanna, and Alexa plan their trip to the most amazing place on the planet, Skye Adventure Park. Spirited third-grader Marya is determined to beat athletic Alexa in the obstacle course at Skye and have her name projected on the leaderboard for all to see. With the help of Baba, Marya researches how to become a major competitor and Operation Super Athlete, with its strict rules, is born. Rule number two states that athletes “practice regularly,” (p. 68) and rule number three asserts that it is important to “eat and sleep well” (p. 68). So, Mama cooks many delicious foods for Marya like protein-filled daal, wheat pancakes, yogurt, and fruit snacks. Marya then invites herself over to her frenemy’s (Alexa) house to train with her and her best friend, Hanna. The trio, but mostly Marya, prepare for the Skye Obstacle Course on ninja steps, a balance beam, a rock wall, and a climbing rope. Marya eagerly awaits competing against her friends at Skye and being crowned the super champion. 

 

In this playful and lighthearted series, Marya Khan battles her rival, Alexa, just like any competitive third grader. Each tome in the series is a stand-alone about Marya and Alexa competing to have the best birthday party, for example, in book one. The dialogue demonstrates the spunkiness in the well-developed young characters. When Mama announces they’re going to Skye Adventure Park, Alexa squealed, “Oh my god, seriously? That’s awesome!” (p. 48). The four rules about how to be a super athlete are themes in the book and rules of thumb for life. Rule number four is an important lesson, especially for the young readers of the book: “It’s okay to lose sometimes” (p.68). Losing is a crucial life lesson that everyone needs to experience, and as Marya learns, sometimes it is better to work as a team rather than fighting to win. Black and white illustrations complement the fast-paced and entertaining text. At the start of each chapter, a Word of the Day from Marya’s journal provides some insight into the upcoming plot, and at the end of the book, readers have the option to plan an obstacle course, just like Marya did in the story.

 

Butler Bookshelf

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We have new teen fiction this week on the Butler Bookshelf! This week we are featuring a novel in verse called Bright Red Fruit by Safia Elhillo. Elhillo recounts the story of 16-year-old Samira who has a reputation for being the “bad girl” in her neighborhood. After being grounded for a scandalous rumor, Samira’s dream of a fun summer full of parties and exploring the city is stymied. She turns to the poetry slam scene for support and captures the attention of an older, mesmerizing poet named Horus. Samira feels that she is desired for the first time, but she is keeping a secret that could threaten her reputation again in her community. She must figure out how to balance being true to herself, her poetry, and her family.

Bright Red Fruit
Written by Safia Elhillo
Published by Make Me A World
Available now!

Dead Girls Don’t Say Sorry
Written by Alex Ritany
Published by Alfred A. Knopf
Available now!

Dead Things Are Closer Than They Appear
Written by Robin Wasley
Published by Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
Available now!

The Eternal Ones
Written by Namina Forna
Published by Delacorte Press
Available now!

Snowglobe
Written by Soyoung Park
Published by Delacorte Press
Available now!

Guest Reviewer Edition: A Review of Kindling

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Kindling
Chee, Traci
HarperCollins
February 27, 2024
Grades 9-up

Magical elite soldiers must confront their own traumas and identities while banding together to defend a town besieged by raiders. Inspired by Seven Samurai, Chee weaves together the stories of seven kindlings who are desperate for stability and purpose in a world that no longer needs them. Raised from the age of six to be elite weapons in a war of expansion, these kindlings now wander the countryside, but are soon gathered for a mission by one of their own. Initially, each kindling views the defense of Camas—the mountain village terrorized by raiders—as just a job. But as time passes and the soldiers’ lives and pasts show their impact, the group finds solace in one another and grows close. “That’s what home is. The people you love. The people you fight for.” (p. 417) Despite coming from similar backgrounds, each character has their own unique voice, characteristics, vices, fears and desires. One character is nonbinary; the rest are female. Even if they don’t bear the same scars, every kindling recognizes a bit of themselves in their comrades. Though all seven kindlings have point-of-view chapters, the book is written in second-person, which forces the reader to empathize with their harsh reality. These vignettes of grief, trauma and the effects of war are devastating and intensely realistic; Chee paints an unflinching depiction of violence and its effect on children. Interweaving these moments with lighter ones like romance and village camaraderie keeps the book from being bogged down by heavy topics. Action scenes towards the climax of the story are fast-paced and thrilling, but easy to follow. Despite a macabre tone throughout and bittersweet climax, the story ends on a note of newfound hope and optimism. Kindling puts the desperation of existing without guidance, and the challenge of living one’s life for oneself, on display in a way any reader can empathize with.

Guest reviewer Katie Steffensen, is a Dominican University MLIS candidate and works in youth services at a library in the North Chicago suburbs. She loves working with tweens and teens.

Meet Kyle Lukoff: 12th Annual Butler Lecturer

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This year’s lecture, “The Right to Be Confused,” is fast approaching. Have you registered to join us on Wednesday, March 13th? Find all the details and get registered here.

Now, let’s meet Kyle…

Kyle Lukoff has been working at the intersection of people and reading for over twenty years. From a high school job at Barnes & Noble, he has managed to make books his entire life. He grew up near Seattle, Washington but moved to New York City in 2002.

Kyle is the author of the middle grade novel Too Bright to See, which was a 2022 Newbery Honor book, the 2022 Stonewall Award winner, and a National Book Award finalist. He also wrote the Stonewall-award winning picture book When Aidan Became a Brother, illustrated by Kaylani Juanita, which “sets a new standard of excellence in transgender representation,” according to a Kirkus starred review.

He is the author of many other books for young readers including the Max and Friends early reader series illustrated by Luciano Lozano, the linguistically humorous picture books A Storytelling of Ravens (illustrated by Natalie Nelson) and Explosion at the Poem Factory (illustrated by Mark Hoffmann), the Acorn series Mermaid Days (illustrated by Kat Uno), and his first non-fiction work, If You’re A Kid Like Gavin, co-authored by young trans activist Gavin Grimm and illustrated by J Yang. Kyle has several forthcoming titles, including the epistolary picture book I’m Sorry You Got Mad, a Jewish fantasy-adventure upper middle grade novel, and several other projects.

Prior to becoming a full-time writer Kyle was the librarian at Corlears, an independent elementary school in New York City. He spent eight years working with children from preschool through fifth grade, teaching literature and research skills as well as helping kids and their parents connect with books and reading. He reviews regularly for Kirkus and served as a 2020 Kirkus Prize judge. He also spent two years as a juror for the Stonewall Award, prior to winning it in 2020, and was a 2023 National Book Award judge for the category of Young People’s Literature.

When Kyle isn’t reading or writing, he’s making something complicated for dinner, petting a cat, or riding his bike.

You’ll find more fun backstory, book love, and an assortment of articles and interviews on Kyle’s website. Check out a few of my favorites (linked from KyleLukoff.com)…

Middle Grade Ninja Episode 112: Literary Agent Saba Sulaiman and Author Kyle Lukoff

“Evaluating Transgender Picture Books; Calling for Better Ones” by Kyle Lukoff

Kirkus interview with Kyle Lukoff

You can find his books in the all the usual places, but one of my favorites is Bookshop.org, a hub for independent bookstores, where your purchases provide support for indy bookstores around the country.

Full Lecture Details:

12th Annual Butler Lecture featuring Kyle Lukoff
March 13, 2024
6:00 p.m.
Free with registration required
Location: Springer Suites, Dominican University’s Rebecca Crown Library, 7900 W. Division St. River Forest, IL 60305
Online (link will be sent to online registrations the day of the event)
A book signing and reception, hosted in the Butler Children’s Literature Center, will follow the lecture

Butler Bookshelf

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This week, Butler Bookshelf brings you a collection of our new nonfiction books. In She Can STEM, Liz Lee Heinecke rewrites women scientists into history, providing a short biography on 50 female scientists along with a related science experiment for readers to try at home for each historical figure. This work includes women who contributed to the fields of biology, chemistry, ecology, and physics, featuring people like Christine Darden–an aircraft wing designer who made important strides at NASA–and Tu Youyou–a pharmacist who discovered a treatment for malaria still used today. Readers will love the discoveries, experiments, and enchanting illustrations for each of these inspiring female figures.

Check out more of our nonfiction titles below!

National Monuments of the U.S.A. Activity Book
Written by Claire Saunders
Illustrated by Chris Turnham
Published by Wide Eyed Editions
Available March 5, 2024!

Only in Florida
Written by Heather Alexander
Illustrated by Joseph Moffat-Peña
Published by Wide Eyed Editions
Available March 5, 2024!

Rewild the World at Bedtime: Hopeful Stories from Mother Nature
Written by Emily Hawkins
Illustrated by Ella Beech
Published by Wide Eyed Editions
Available March 5, 2024!

She Can STEM: 50 Trailblazing Women in Science from Ancient History to Today
Written by Liz Lee Heinecke
Illustrated by Kelly Anne Dalton
Published by Quarry Books
Available now!

Tenzing Norgay
Written by Maria Isabel Sánchez Vegara
Illustrated by Bandana Tulachan
Published by Frances Lincoln Children’s Books
Available now!

The Secret Life of Bugs
Written by Moira Butterfield
Illustrated by Vivian Mineker
Published by Happy Yak Books
Available March 5, 2024!

Life in Color: A Review of Ultraviolet

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Ultraviolet
Written by Aida Salazar
Scholastic Press
Ages 10-14
Available April 2nd, 2024

The moment thirteen-year-old Elio Solis meets Camelia, his whole world seems to burst with light and color he never even knew existed. He’s in love and ready to learn how to be a good boyfriend. This vibrant new world creates more questions than answers though, especially in a family where his mom openly discusses resisting the patriarchy while his dad preaches about upholding the impenetrable, machismo way of the Solis family. Elio navigates his growing body, new vulnerable feelings, Mexican culture, and changing friendships with an open mind and kind heart, but his confidence turns to “angry, wild red” when he is unexpectedly heartbroken (p 192). In a climactic fist fight scene that ends in relief and tears, this novel shows that strength lies on the inside in a way that avoids clichés.

Dedicating this book to her tween son, Salazar counters her belief that society has “failed our boys emotionally” with sensitive masculine characters and an inviting, casual, powerful writing style that intersperses Spanish words and phrases. Using ethically centered characters like Elio’s mom, best friend Paco, and teachers, Salazar guides Elio through candid and difficult conversations about toxic masculinity, consent, and even sexual health. The recurring themes of light, flowers, and color also resist harsher versions of masculinity and give readers a view into the fullness of complex human emotions. Written in verse, Salazar’s language pops with accessible alliteration and engaging rhythm, like when Elio feels “freeze-tag frozen” or describes liking Camelia as “soul sonic cosmic” (p 11) (p 103). Through Elio’s vulnerable and imperfect soul-healing journey, Salazar helps give readers permission to shred unhealthy expectations and redefine themselves.

Butler Bookshelf

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We are focusing this week on picture books and children’s literature. Our featured book this week is Too Much: My Great Big Native Family by Laurel Goodluck and Bridget George. Goodluck tells the story of young Russell who shines brightly when cast in his school play. When he tries to share the casting news with his huge loud family, getting their attention is nearly impossible. His boisterous family is just too noisy and too much! Venturing out on his own, Russell decides that being alone is not always the answer. His large loving family steps in at just the right moment when Russell needs them the most. For more amazing titles, check out the list below!

All of Those Babies

Written by Mylisa Larsen and Illustrated by Stephanie Laberis

Published by Simon & Schuster

Available now!

 

Sona Sharma: Looking After Planet Earth

Written by Chitra Soundar and Illustrated by Jen Khatun

Published by Candlewick Press

Available now!

 

This Little Kitty in the Garden

Written by Karen Obuhanych

Published by Random House

Available now!

 

Today Is For You!

Written by Sally Lloyd-Jones and Illustrated by Kevin Waldron

Published by Candlewick Press

Available now!

 

Too Much: My Great Big Native Family

Written by Laurel Goodluck and Illustrated by Bridget George

Published by Simon & Schuster

Available now!

A Review of My Mother’s Tongues: A Weaving of Languages

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My Mother’s Tongues: A Weaving of Languages
Written by Uma Menon
Illustrated by Rahele Jomepour Bell
Candlewick Press
Ages 4-8
Available February 13th, 2024

Snowflakes flutter to the ground as Sumi’s mother sets foot on U.S. soil from India painting a picture of her mother’s migration journey. Through tireless work, her mother learned English, and as a result, she now speaks two languages–Malayalam and English. Flash-forward to the present day while grocery shopping, Sumi’s mother switches from speaking Malayalam to grandmother to English with the cashier and a combination of both languages to Sumi. “The languages hop like rabbits from her tongue” (p. 4). To Sumi, her mother’s tongues are rapidly woven together into one fine tapestry with invisible seams. Sumi studies English at school like her mother and learns that each of her languages is like a muscle that needs to be exercised to grow strong. 

Sixteen-year-old Uma Menon, who grew up in a multilingual household, penned this picture book because she could not find stories that reflected her experience. Simple sentence structure gives the story a childlike tone reflecting the main character’s youthful age. However, the wise words and powerful messages that emerge surpass our expectations of a teenage author. The power of multilingualism is evident in this story when Sumi says, “I want to learn dozens of languages so that, one day, I can speak with people who live in every part of the world” (p.24). Speaking many languages is a superpower that can catapult one across boundaries and around the globe. Woven textures and muted earthy tones give the book a nostalgic feel of the old world and times gone by. On the cover page, title page, and final spread, Rhahele Jomepour Bell incorporates visual metaphors weaving together the Malayalam and English languages within an alphabet quilt. The quilt is then transformed into Sumi’s superhero cape in the final image of the book because “having a tapestry of tongues” (p. 26) will be her superpower.  

Butler Bookshelf

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Our Butler Bookshelf this week features our new arrivals touching on historical events, themes of romance, and even some nonfiction about the body. One of our powerful new works is a young adult adaptation of Barracoon: The Story of the Last “Black Cargo,” a posthumous publication from Zora Neale Hurston that illustrates the experience of the last known survivor of the Atlantic slave trade in 1927: Cudjo Lewis. Adapted by Ibram X. Kendi, this nonfiction work gives age-appropriate historical context to Lewis’ story, brought to life with Jazzmen Lee-Johnson’s accompanying illustrations.

Check out more of our new additions below!

Barracoon: Adapted for Young Readers
Written by Zora Neale Hurston and Ibram X. Kendi
Illustrated by Jazzmen Lee-Johnson
Published by Amistad Books for Young Readers
Available now!

I Hope This Doesn’t Find You
Written by Ann Liang
Published by Scholastic Press
Available now!

It’s So Amazing!: A Book about Eggs, Sperm, Birth, Babies, Gender, and Families
Written by Robie H. Harris
Illustrated by Michael Emberley
Published by Candlewick Press
Available now!

Uprising
Written by Jennifer A. Nielsen
Published by Scholastic Press
Available March 5, 2024!

Yours from the Tower
Written Sally Nicholls
Published by Walker Books
Available now!

You’re Invited: A review of My Big, Fat Desi Wedding: A YA Romance Anthology

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My Big, Fat Desi Wedding: A YA Romance Anthology
Edited by Prerna Pickett
Page Street Publishing
February 13, 2024
Age 14+

All the big flavors, big fashion, and big family drama of an extravagant Desi wedding, in an extraordinary series of bite-sized stories. Jaanu, a sassy younger sister who’s very words can mysteriously bring about disaster for the happy couple—rainy weather, a tipsy bride, or a missing wedding dress. Zayna, driven to distraction by a desire to help her mother and avoid a cute, but infuriating classmate, finds that food and friendship can go hand-in-hand to help heal a heartache. In a blackout experience, Shloka, binds herself, and her cult, to a rival vampire who also happens to be her long-lost love. Eight short stories full of wedding drama and swoony romance, spanning genre, culture and location, are bookended by the perspective of a mysterious auntie that flits through the stories like a Desi fairy godmother.

Prerna Pickett expertly weaves these stories of family, tradition, and love while still honoring the diversity of Desi cultures the authors celebrate. Each well-crafted story shines, and includes its own variation of the highs and lows that all families go through and the complex emotions that often bubble up around even the most joyous wedding celebration. The individual authors’ style and flair are evident, and the entries vary in themes and tone (from humorous to horrifying), while still reading as a well-linked collection. Design details such as the mehndi-like border to the chapter breaks and the varied skin tones and traditions represented in the cover art add to the cultural (and romantic) emersion readers will get from this delightful anthology. A fun and fast-paced collection sure to entice romantics, foodies, fashionistas, and maybe a meddling auntie or two.