Book Review: Treasure Hunters

Treasure Hunters by James Patterson

The Kidd family sails the seven seas in search of treasure with their well-known and respected father. However, a terrible storm washes him overboard and leaves the Kidds orphans. For risk of going into foster care, the family continues the treasure hunting business hoping to not raise suspicion, raise money, and even to see if there is any chance their father or mother are still alive.

Set sail with this story that is not only told in a popular graphic novel format, but that contains bits of humor mixed with high-seas adventure.

Release date:  September 16 2013

Recommended for:  4th-7th graders that are fans of graphic novels and treasure-hunting adventure

Book Review: Star Wars Jedi Academy

Star Wars: Jedi Academy by Jeffrey Brown

Roan has finished primary school, and can’t wait for his acceptance letter to the Pilot Academy Middle School. After all, his dad and big brother went through the academy. But to his horror, he gets a rejection letter along with recommendations to go to the Tatoonie Agricultural Academy. Roan doesn't like the idea of being a plant farmer on his desert planet when he gets older. Things look a little less bleak when he gets a letter of acceptance to the Jedi Academy. He is just not sure if he is Jedi material, but decides to give it a try instead of going off to plant school.

I loved this book! It is definitely one for not only Star Wars fans, but those who love the Wimpy Kid journal-style graphic novels. This is a must purchase for not only my school library (it will never stay on the shelves), but for my home. Thank you Scholastic for giving me the opportunity to preview this egalley before its release!

Release date:  August 27, 2013

Recommended for:  3rd-7th graders who love Star Wars and/or the Wimpy Kid's style of books

Book Review: The Flying Beaver Brothers and the Mud-Slinging Moles

The Flying Beaver Brothers and the Mud-Slinging Moles by Maxwell Eaton III

The beaver brothers Ace and Bub both want to put a stop to the moles' plan of trading their island's sand for mud.

I got a few short chuckles out of this graphic novel. Although it lacked a little substance in plot, it is perfect for the intended audience. This series would be great to introduce to reluctant readers too! 

Release date:  July 9, 2013

Recommended for:  1st-4th graders who enjoy humor and graphic novels (graphic novel illustrations are similar to the Babymouse and Lunch Lady series with one color tones)

Book Review: Clueless McGee and the Inflatable Pants

Clueless McGee and the Inflatable Pants by Jeff Mack

Readers may worry that they will be clueless with this second book in the Clueless McGee series, but have no fear, it can be a stand alone read.

I have to admit, I was leery at first glance: the letter-writing style and illustrations scream Wimpy Kid fan book. But I quickly became a fan of this book and will recommend it to all my students looking for a humorous read (Wimpy Kid fans and all).

In this story, PJ is encouraged by Principal Prince to lessen his ninja obsession and expand his mind by joining the Rocket Science Club. That doesn't sound exciting to PJ until he learns he can win the official Rocket Science trophy for creating an exceptional invention. PJ's new obsession then becomes winning the science trophy (and also still ninjas) until the trophy is stolen. He then puts his detective skills to work to find his (er, the school's) missing Rocket Science trophy.

Release date:  June 13, 2013

Recommended for:  2nd-5th graders (8-11 year olds) who like humor and wonder what else is there to read besides Wimpy Kid books