(2) YA In 1959, seventeen-year-old Mazie suddenly finds herself with the funds to leave Nebraska and spend six weeks in New York City pursuing her Broadway dreams. At first she's overwhelmed and lonely, living in the big city at a boardinghouse for "theatrical young ladies" and ­learning the auditioning ropes. Repeated rejections make her question her singing and dancing talents, not to mention her appearance ("I come from...solid Nebraska stock"). Crowder's novel takes readers on an enjoyable trip back to a golden age in theater, providing an inside look at the business while name-dropping hit songs and shows and introducing readers to a little-known piece of history: industrial musicals, shows sponsored by companies to advertise their products. In her last week in the city, Mazie finally lands an understudy role in an "industrial" traveling across the Corn Belt to promote a new tractor. ­During the ­ten-show run, she winds up with the lead, gets to visit her family (and former boyfriend), and learns about herself and what really matters in life. Crowder believably weaves in complicated romance--for both the protagonist and a few queer secondary characters--but the focus is on Mazie's determination to prove to herself and others that she's got what it takes to succeed, an inspiring example for anyone with a similar dream.

Reviewer: Cynthia K. Ritter | Horn Book Magazine Issue: July, 2021

(3) 4-6 It's been just Griffin and his dad running a lighthouse on the Oregon coast since Griffin's mother died three years ago. When beings from a parallel world called Somni kidnap his father, Griffin follows in hopes of rescuing him. Reminiscent of A Wrinkle in Time, this is a well-paced fantasy-adventure with intriguing characters, surprising plot twists, and a cliffhanger ending that leaves room for a possible sequel.

Reviewer: Rita Soltan

(2) 4-6 Eleven-year-old Marin Greene won't allow herself to love new foster mother Lucy (her sixth in seven years). Marin knows her birth mother is out there, and she will find her. Throughout, Marin's loneliness and longing are palpable: "What would it be like...to have a mother who wanted her?" Luckily, Lucy wants a daughter just as badly. A contemplative, multilayered story that honors foster-to-adoptive families.

Reviewer: Rachel L. Smith | Horn Book Magazine Issue: July, 2017

(3) YA Seventeen-year-old Francisco leads an average life in 1999 Bolivia until his father is imprisoned on false drug charges. When their mother abandons them, Francisco and his eight-year-old sister are forced to move into the prison, where they struggle to maintain hope. Poignant prose, interspersed with Francisco's insightful poetry, make this glimpse into a harsh reality (inspired by actual events) enthralling. Bib., glos.

Reviewer: Kristy Pasquariello

(4) 4-6 In this modern fairy tale, alternating chapters focus on Luna, a girl, and Perdy, an abandoned sprite. Before Perdy lost her twin, the swamp was a sparkling river. Now, the sprite's resentment poisons the water. Luna's sister takes an unlucky swallow, and Luna seeks Perdy to reverse the malady. Atmospheric descriptions slow down any drama, but this sweet story has the requisite happy ending.

Reviewer: Lauren Rizzuto

(3) YA This gripping historical verse novel is based on the life of Clara Lemlich, a Russian Jewish immigrant who worked tirelessly to help unionize and establish rights for fellow young women factory employees in the early twentieth century. Clara's driven and emotional voice radiates strength amid her doubts, fears, conflicts, and conviction to create a more equal world for women.

Reviewer: Rita Soltan

(3) 4-6 With lyrically descriptive narration from three perspectives, this survival story set in a lawless, drought-ridden African desert presents the struggles of Sarel, an orphaned girl; her dog, Nandi; and Musa, a boy with a spiritual talent for finding water, this setting's rare, commoditized resource. Crowder creates a compelling view of three determined beings courageously willing to endure brutal, widespread carnage.

Reviewer: Rita Soltan