(3) 1-3 Illustrated by Kass Reich. Lonely in a new town, Daniel Misumi meets an even lonelier talking fruit bat in this early chapter book. Together, boy and bat strategize its return to Borneo while also dodging a callous neighbor, forging new friendships, and bonding over Star Wars. Humphrey makes the story's various absurdities seem only natural, and the gently rounded graphite illustrations and welcoming, large-font format match the sweet tone.

Reviewer: Dorrie Karlin

(3) 4-6 Illustrated by Lisa Cinar. Not-so-humble fourth grader Clara (Clara Humble and the Not-So-Super Powers) is thrilled to discover that her favorite TV game show, Smarty Pants, is coming to town. Confident she'll win, Clara begins training. But best friend Bradley is acting strangely, and Clara is uneasy with the show's girls-versus-boys set-up. Humor, ethical issues, and Clara's comics-style doodles are a winning combination in this second book.

Reviewer: Grace Worcester Greene

(3) 4-6 Illustrated by Lisa Cinar. Spunky comics-lover Clara's beloved elderly next-door neighbor is moving, and kids from rival R.R. Reginald Elementary are moving into Clara's school during building repairs. Can Clara's newly discovered "superpowers" help? Best friend Bradley starts training her, and together they hatch a series of nearly disastrous plans. Clara's story, illustrated with cartoony doodles, is an appealing combination of humor and heart.

Reviewer: Grace Worcester Greene

(2) 4-6 Illustrated by Vanessa Brantley Newton. Ten-year-old Ruby Goldberg sets her sights on finally winning the gold medal at her school science fair, which has gone to her rival, Dominic, two years running. She eventually joins ideas with Dominic and learns the value of teamwork. Ruby's growing pains feel consistently authentic. Newton's black-and-white illustrations capture the playful energy of the narrative.

Reviewer: Shara Hardeson | Horn Book Magazine Issue: May, 2014

(3) YA Seventh grader Margot feels nervous about starting school without her best friend. She's psyched to hang with new-girl Em, rebellious and untrustworthy, who encourages Margot to be gutsier, but also lands her in trouble when revenge on a bully goes too far. Though Margot often sounds older than her almost-thirteen years, her desire to fit in is relatable.

Reviewer: Amanda Mc. MacGregor