(4) YA Orca Soundings series. Ever since causing the crash that killed his best friend, Logan, Tom fears racing; meanwhile, he toils to pay off repairs to his car. Tom also faces losing the vehicle and messing up his relationship with Hannah (who was Logan's girlfriend). The story is slight but accessible; reluctant readers may be drawn to the subject matter and the short, melodramatic sentences.

Reviewer: Susan Halperin

(4) YA Orca Soundings series. After a bee sting triggers a near-death experience, Hannah emerges with the power to heal. Grieving for the past year over the tragic demise of her boyfriend, Hannah's emotions suddenly give way to fear and confusion as she contemplates her new power. The story skims lightly across such issues as grief, love, and forgiveness.

Reviewer: Marika Jeffrey

(3) YA Orca Soundings series. Being dead is strange for sixteen-year-old Logan, but when he learns from his deceased grandmother and his guide, Wade, that his premature exit was his own fault, he's devastated by the repercussions his deadly decision has had on his family. This slim novel for reluctant readers is unpredictable and edgy.

Reviewer: Lauren Maggio

(3) K-3 Illustrated by Victor Bosson. When circumstances prevent Akoya from keeping a bargain with some magical foxes, they withdraw their help, and the village rice crop is ruined. Akoya, a brave and generous woman, must not only save her village but also find a way to protect the foxes from retaliation. The old Japanese setting is effectively realized in the spacious, richly patterned illustrations.

Reviewer: Martha Sibert