(3) 4-6 Dr. Critchlore's School for Minions series. Illustrated by Joe Sutphin. Runt Higgins is faced with many struggles, including figuring out who cursed him; reconciling with his expelled former best friend, Syke; and passing the Junior Henchman Training Program when the professor clearly has it out for him. Funny and full of heart, fans will enjoy delving further into this world of (sorta) monsters. Sutphin's imaginative line illustrations add dimension to the third hilarious adventure.

Reviewer: Jenn Matters

(4) 4-6 Dr. Critchlore's School for Minions series. Illustrated by Joe Sutphin. Runt Higgins must save Dr. Critchlore's School for Minions once again; shenanigans ensue. This time, Runt conducts a secret quest for the Great Library, helps run a fashion show to appease the powerful Siren Syndicate, and learns why one of Dr. Pravus's monsters thinks he's a family member. A few deus ex machina events weaken this second silly adventure.

Reviewer: Barratt Miller

(3) 4-6 Illustrated by Adam Rex. On planet Yipsmix, where everyone has synesthesia, Jaq is a normal, poor kid. When Jaq must sell his pet freasel, Klingdux, he comes home with a worthless key. Facing his mother's wrath, Jaq seeks the treasure his key promises and passes through a magic door into a giant-filled mall...on Earth. Grau offers a humorous and adventure-filled retelling of "Jack and the Beanstalk" with a sci-fi twist.

Reviewer: Jenn Matters

(3) 4-6 Illustrated by Joe Sutphin. Twelve-year-old werewolf Runt Higgins might not be able to transform into a ferocious beast (yet), but he will do whatever it takes to save Dr. Critchlore's School for Minions when he discovers that someone is trying to shut down the monster-training institution. This funny magical-boarding-school story is a natural choice for Harry Potter devotees.

Reviewer: Barratt Miller