Each month we post an annotated bibliography of books that were rated ‘Outstanding’ at our previous month’s meeting and nominated for our year-end Distinguished List. Members can see full reviews of these books and many more in the July edition of BayViews. Not a member? Join, come to our (currently virtual) monthly meetings, and hear about these Outstanding books “in person”!
Fiction
Amber & Clay written by Schlitz, Laura Amy and illustrated by Iredale, Julia; Candlewick, 2021.
Rhaskos, a slave boy and artist, and Melisto, a high born and rebellious girl, cross paths in Ancient Greece. The book’s length and unique blend of literary styles may deter some readers, but the payoff is a beautifully-rendered narrative. (Grades 6-9.)
The Great Godden written by Rosoff, Meg; Candlewick, 2021.
A British family, artsy and rich in love, intelligence, and quirkiness if not in actual cash, always spend summer at their beach house and, with the arrival of the Godden brothers, this classic and familiar sunshiny structure is wonderfully subverted into something dark and twisted. (9-12.)
Like Other Girls written by Lundin, Britta; Hyperion/Disney, 2021.
Closeted “butch” lesbian Mara is reluctantly accepted into her high school football team but is horrified when four other girls are inspired to play too. Mara’s growing confidence and understanding of her identity is drawn authentically and from the heart. (9-12.)
Graphic Novels
Sylvie written and illustrated by Kantorovitz, Sylvie; Walker/Candlewick, 2021.
Many readers will identify with young Sylvie, who is not sure what profession she might want to pursue in this graphic novel memoir. The author/illustrator describes her youth in France where the family lives at a school for boys because her father is the principal. (6-12.)
Nonfiction
Why Longfellow Lied: The Truth About Paul Revere’s Midnight Ride written by Lantos, Jeff; Charlesbridge, 2021.
In this look at Paul Revere’s ride, the book begins with Longfellow’s poem, and then describes what really occurred and why Longfellow may have changed the facts. The book design will attract readers with b&w and color photos, maps, sidebars, page decorations and other illustrative elements. (5-12.)
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