(2) 4-6 Illustrated by Andrea Bell. Eager to become an investigative reporter, tenacious twelve-year-old Ruthie begins an examination into polluted water at Particular Lake in her hometown of Twin Oaks. Her inquiry starts bumpily: her research is ­well-intentioned but incomprehensive, and she manages to ruffle a few feathers with her vigorous pursuit of the truth. With the mentorship of her older brother's girlfriend, who interns at the New York Times, and additional assistance from her science teacher, who teaches Ruthie's class about the water crisis in Flint, Michigan, Ruthie quickly learns that her sleuthing must be watertight to stand up to the ­corporate corruption she uncovers. Given its dedication (to "the people of Flint") and its biracial protagonist, readers might have expected this graphic novel to include deeper discussions of racial inequities in water advocacy, but the narrative does present a detailed, dedicated focus on the proper way to conduct an investigation to hold wrongdoers accountable. Bell's rounded, colorful art style feels modern and accessible to digitally savvy readers; it reminds them that Ruthie is still a kid and still learning, especially when she makes her more embarrassing mistakes. A refreshing addition to the contemporary graphic novel landscape for middle-graders and middle-schoolers.

Reviewer: Niki Marion | Horn Book Magazine Issue: July, 2021

(3) 1-3 Illustrated by Boya Sun. This graphic novel promotes STEAM and tinkering while gently criticizing disposable culture. The candy-colored, anime-inspired land of Chasma revolves around toys, and all but neon knights gain power when they "catalyze" or merge with playthings. Bullied neon knight Beryl overcomes her shortcomings through her inventive abilities, which the powerful oxygen knight Coro soon discovers. The story compellingly explores friendship and jealousy amid appealing world-building.

Reviewer: Dorrie Karlin