(2) 4-6 Illustrated by Jarrett J. Krosoczka. This imaginative collection presents thirteen stories from an all-star team of authors, including Nikki Grimes, Pam Muñoz Ryan, and Linda Sue Park. A heartfelt introduction by the coeditors sets up the theme and through line: these are short stories of middle-school kids growing in self-knowledge and empathy as they realize that they each have some sort of gift. ("Because everyone has a power, and that power matters, no matter how small or inconvenient it may seem.") The compilation is cleverly organized into two parts: "The Power of Discovering Who We Are" and "The Power of Being Who We Are." Abilities portrayed include time-jumping, shape-shifting, telepathy, the courage to speak truth to power, the ability to sense when avocados are ripe, and more. In Kyle Lukoff's story, a child learns to take steps to trust and affirm his own wishes about his gender identity; in Mitali Perkins's, a chameleon gives a girl magical cultural code switching abilities. Whether big or small, silly or serious (or both), every power is brought to life through a nuanced, diverse cast of characters and entertaining, thought-provoking plots. While the narratives lean whimsical, this entire project offers readers a careful, serious, and profound invitation to reflect on issues of identity, responsibility, social justice, and the myriad ways that people's gifts -- in both perception and application -- can affect others' lives, relationships, and the wider world. Illustrations not seen.

Reviewer: Elisa Gall | Horn Book Magazine Issue: March, 2024

(2) K-3 Translated by Michael Favala Goldman. The hero of this story lives alone in his extremely tidy house. He shines his shoes, irons his shirt, plays hide-and-seek with his cactus, and practices the piano. Everything is predictable, organized, and safe. He is a child living like a reclusive, buttoned-up adult. He likes it that way -- or so the text says. The illustrations hint at a different reality. In the restrained, sepia-toned pencil drawings we see precise, orderly renditions of the setting, with inventories of the desk, the flowers in the garden, the contents of the first-aid kit. But there are off-kilter details: chimney smoke that turns into a kind of origami shape, wallpaper that seems to be taking over, and some glimpses of bears, paintings of bears, bear-shaped bookends. Then a real bear, who might be a dream-bear, arrives, and the boy, who might be a dream-boy, turns into a real child. Together, the two friends roughhouse, break crockery, dance, make messes, laugh, growl at the moon, and tenderly cozy up together to sleep. The boy's cheeks warm from blue to pink. This Danish import is a gentle testament to friendship, the potential for growth and change, and the sheer exhilaration of letting go.

Reviewer: Sarah Ellis | Horn Book Magazine Issue: May, 2024

(1) 4-6 Win "Coal" Keegan is moving to another foster home; the McKay family seems nice enough, and Coal is relieved that he's remaining at the same school with his best friend, nicknamed Door. After a case of police brutality that leaves a woman dead, Coal processes his emotions in his usual way: making chalk art throughout the neighborhood. He is caught in the act by an irate neighbor and, in the midst of a potentially deadly situation, unexpectedly becomes invisible. Coal and Door work together to discover the source of Coal's newfound ability. Their questions lead them to the company Mirror Tech, where all visitors are encouraged to "find out what you are made of." Coal meets a scientist who guides him down a path that leads to more questions. As he warms up to the McKay family, Coal finds himself in increasingly intense situations with Mirror Tech, compromising his safety as well as his loved ones'. The book's conclusion raises the possibility that Coal's powers defy all scientific explanation. The tone shifts from analytical to heartwarming, with well-rounded characters and witty dialogue; the author's love of literature is also evident, with references to Danez Smith and Chinua Achebe. Baptiste has created imperfect but sympathetic heroes whom readers will champion throughout the story.

Reviewer: Eboni Njoku | Horn Book Magazine Issue: November, 2024

(1) YA In this coming-of-age novel set in an insular Orthodox Jewish community (adjacent to the one in The Life and Crimes of Hoodie Rosen, rev. 11/22), Yocheved "Yoyo" Gold is the eldest daughter of the local rabbi and has been cast in a particular and demanding role by those around her. After her best friend leaves town under questionable circumstances, Yoyo begins to notice cracks in the standards of behavior she has always accepted and feels an urge to call out the hypocrisy she sees. New friends -- one from outside her tight-knit community and one who is pushing boundaries within it -- lead her to question both her responsibilities and her beliefs. Social media, alcohol, and physical relationships feature heavily in the story, and each potential hot-button issue is handled with delicacy and nuance as Yoyo approaches these new experiences from her sheltered but mature perspective. While the book critiques Orthodoxy, it also treats its norms and traditions with respect. Even at the height of mean-girl drama, the characters have dimension and agency, and Yoyo models a level of integrity that feels both genuine and aspirational. The story's depictions of teens grappling with expectations are specific to this community and also represent universal themes of growing up, friendship, family pressures, and being true to oneself.

Reviewer: Miriam Steinberg-Egeth | Horn Book Magazine Issue: November, 2024

(2) YA Wilhelmina's beloved aunt Frankie died in 2018. Now it's 2020, and Wilhelmina's family and two closest friends still seem cut off from her in her grief; the isolating precautions of the pandemic and the chaotic state of the nation only make things worse. But on October 30, 2020, something changes, and Wilhelmina begins to see sights that can only be magical: an "owl lady," a cryptic golden message, a glow surrounding certain people. Against her will, Wilhelmina must confront the impossible -- but what if accepting the impossible also means accepting her aunt's death? Set during a tense nine-day period surrounding the previous U.S. presidential election and flashing back to summer visits with Wilhelmina's aunts (a loving, eccentric "throuple"), Cashore's novel is rich with a quality of observation and multifarious detail that suits adolescent angst, loss, and the limited stimulation of pandemic "bubbles." Tarot cards; smiles (teasing, ironic, or secretive); bathrobes; doughnuts (lots of good ones); hair; clothing; thoracic outlet syndrome (the afterword offers some startling news about that); birds; two warm, supportive constellations of trios (the aunts; Wilhelmina and her friends); and much more make their way into Wilhelmina's thoughts and feelings as she finally emerges "into her own." Although set in the recent past, this is a work of historical and magical realism with unsettling contemporary resonances.

Reviewer: Deirdre F. Baker | Horn Book Magazine Issue: July, 2024

(2) YA The Ybarras and the Moraleses, who own Cuban bakeries across the street from each other in fictional Port Murphy, Washington, have a bitter, decades-old rivalry. Ana Maria Ybarra (who also goes by Amy because no one in her mostly white town can pronounce her name correctly) usually honors the family feud. Until Miguel, a boy with whom she shared a steamy kiss in L.A. months ago, moves to town and reveals that he's a Morales nephew. Try as she might, she can't stay away ("He's technically a Fuentes," she justifies), especially when she learns he's a photography whiz. She's desperate for someone to fix her recipe videos so she can win a scholarship to culinary school. The two create a plan to film cooking videos in secret -- which, of course, devolves into clandestine making out. Ana Maria's family can't find out about either. Castellanos's (Isla to Island4, rev. 3/22) first novel-with-words is a sweet and satisfying rom-com with a relatively low-stakes star-crossed storyline. Ana Maria learns to stand up for her dreams for her future, her love life, and even the name she wants to be called, and Miguel is supportive as she figures it all out. Delicious descriptions of traditional Cuban foods and Ana Maria's updated creations abound. A recipe for guava cream cheese thumbprint cookies is appended.

Reviewer: | Horn Book Magazine Issue: September, 2024

(2) K-3 Two succulent-looking sentient plants search for meaning in this philosophical picture book. Easygoing Worthi seems content with life, but Nelli is restless and wonders about finding one's purpose: "I heard it gives you strength when life gets tough." Worthi drags Nelli into the forest to look for answers. The friends try to contemplate (and not be overwhelmed by) the scale of either the concepts they're considering or the natural world they explore, with amusing results: a purpose is satisfying and comforting, but it is not a baked potato. The pair then meets a charming cast of mindfulness-centered characters introduced one by one with a steady, rhythmic pace. A frog stuck in a spiderweb questions goodness; a meditative stinkbug encourages looking within; and a bee endorses following one's heart. The dialogue-only text is full of care and curiosity, with scaffolding for readers new to the comics format provided by color-coded speech balloons and lots of white space. The digital illustrations have a dreamlike texture to them, with fuzzy, misty edges and jeweled hues. When the day is through, the tiny plants haven't found any answers, but they enjoyed the journey and look forward to continuing their quest and thinking more tomorrow.

Reviewer: Elisa Gall | Horn Book Magazine Issue: May, 2024

(2) YA Sixteen-year-old Samira feels restricted by the watchful eyes of her tight-knit Sudanese American community, especially those of her protective mother. The community has labeled her a "bad girl" because of a false rumor that a boy started years ago. Now, while trying to sneak out to a party with friends, Samira is caught by her mom and grounded. Forbidden from leaving the house, she turns to an online poetry forum to stay connected. She begins chatting with an older poet, Horus, with whom she quickly finds herself falling in love. She begins to question him, though, when he pretends her poem is his. Through vivid free-verse poetry, text messages, and emails, Elhillo (Home Is Not a Country, rev. 7/21) creates a realistic picture of a teenage girl trying to push against unfair perceptions. She also highlights the fears of parents who are trying to raise children in a foreign country. In addition, the book offers a glimpse into the world of poetry and how young artists may be manipulated by older ones. Readers will appreciate the believable portrayal of a teen who is dealing with complex issues of family, friendship, and romantic love.

Reviewer: Nicholl Denice Montgomery | Horn Book Magazine Issue: March, 2024

(2) YA After seventeen-year-old Small Sade ages out of her orphanage, her primary goal is to discover a home where she truly belongs. However, her physical appearance, marked by vitiligo and a maimed foot from a childhood accident that requires her to use a cane, sets her apart in a fantasy world that, like many societies, looks upon difference cruelly. But Sade possesses a unique gift -- the ability to perceive and cleanse malevolent spiritual energies. That gift leads her to unexpected encounters, including one with the enigmatic Crocodile God, who is afflicted by a seemingly unbreakable curse. Prophesied as his deliverer, Sade initially chooses her own path in Oluwan City, impressing the wealthy elite with her spiritual powers. However, her course pivots when she confronts the darker realities lurking beneath the surface of the city. Awakening to these realities and deepening ties with the Crocodile God, Sade realizes the imperative for social change not just for herself but for all who are marginalized and oppressed. This standalone novel, set within the same universe as Ifueko's Raybearer duology, offers a fresh narrative lens within that universe by prioritizing the perspectives of commoners over royalty. While familiar characters and settings are present, Sade's narrative enriches them, offering deeper insights into their complexities. First-person narrator Sade's distinct voice and her journey of discovery and transformation are likely to captivate readers.

Reviewer: S. R. Toliver | Horn Book Magazine Issue: September, 2024

(2) 4-6 Illustrated by Scott Kurtz & Steve Hamaker. Color by Steve Hamaker. Valeria has struggled with fitting in and fighting in the past, but she is moving to a new middle school -- again -- and hoping for a fresh start. After some boys in her class observe her obstreperous behavior on the first day, one of them invites Val to join the Table Titans, their tabletop gaming club. Val doesn't know anything about Dungeons & Dragons, but she is a fast learner and excitedly joins them mid-campaign. When the team unexpectedly needs a new club advisor, the only teacher available makes them a deal: he will serve in the role if one of the kids fills an open spot on the wrestling team he coaches. Val makes the cut and discovers both D&D and wrestling to be empowering outlets for her outsized imagination, energy, and emotions. This graphic novel's clearly delineated visual narrative effectively moves between scenes from Val's real, everyday life and moments of make-believe. Simple backgrounds spotlight characters and their actions (both real and imagined). D&D vocabulary and concepts are naturally embedded in the narrative, offering context for readers unfamiliar with the gaming world. Themes of nonconformity and being true to oneself will resonate with the audience, and the characters' interactions with one another -- both humorous and awkward -- are realistically portrayed. An unapologetic celebration of growing up and finding one's passions.

Reviewer: Elisa Gall | Horn Book Magazine Issue: May, 2024

(2) 4-6 Illustrated by Ann Xu & Sunmi. Color by Sunmi. In this graphic novel set "somewhere near Seattle," Michelle and her older sister, Claire, are far from the best of friends. Self-assured Claire takes pride in and embraces her Taiwanese heritage; self-conscious Michelle is more interested in hanging out with her white friends at her middle school, eager to stay in classmate Jess's good graces to secure an invitation to her end-of-summer bash. The scene shifts when their parents send both sisters to a Taiwanese American summer camp. Immersed in Taiwanese culture, Michelle strives to forge her dual identity while struggling with the Taiwanese language, practicing calligraphy, competing in a dragon boat race, and memorizing folksong lyrics for a talent show. In this story of cultural heritage and identity reconciliation, LaMotte and Xu (Measuring Up, rev. 3/21) explore the often nebulous, isolating experience of not quite fitting in and being stereotyped based on appearance. Cultural activities, from making Taiwanese shaved ice to crafting glove puppets, occupy full-page panels packed with a lively collage of details. Moments of humor captured through playful manga-like facial expressions and gestures propel the plot forward in whimsical fashion.

Reviewer: Jerry Dear | Horn Book Magazine Issue: May, 2024

(2) YA Finn and Ezra, both thirteen, are destined to relive their bar mitzvah weekends, from Friday through Sunday afternoon, countless times. While their overlapping plights initially seem coincidental, as they progress through more and more inescapable loops, their stories become increasingly intertwined. On the surface, the boys are very different from each other, but through their trials trying to get to Monday, they discover commonalities and universal truths. Ezra's life within an insular Orthodox community is presented in contrast to Finn's more worldly outlook, and both boys grapple with judgment and occasionally with jealousy of each other. Many aspects of traditional Jewish life and culture are explained through the lens of Finn's encountering them for the first time, with a lightly informative rather than preachy approach. Themes of trust, friendship, family, and growing up are thoughtfully interspersed with madcap adventures involving physicists, bank heists, and elaborate lies. Ethical dilemmas within a fantastical premise nonetheless raise real questions about how adolescents can decide what kind of people they want to be. An unexpectedly poignant resolution offers the main characters a chance to prove that they made the most of their time, while not-so-subtly encouraging readers to do the same.

Reviewer: Miriam Steinberg-Egeth | Horn Book Magazine Issue: July, 2024

(2) 4-6 Jax Freeman series. After his alleged participation in a brawl, twelve-year-old Jackson Freeman is sent to Chicago to live with an uncle and grandmother he barely knows. Awkward and shy, Jax expects to confront the typical woes of sixth-grade life: new school, classmates, routines. However, these ordinary challenges are soon overshadowed by the discovery of a magical world where families summon powers through their ancestors. Enrolled in a special class for the children of summoning families, Jax learns of his magical legacy, an inheritance that reveals unique talents and historical mistakes. As he navigates this new world, Jax makes allies and confronts powerful adversaries, all while attempting to balance his magical training with the challenges of everyday life. Each conflict tests his understanding of loyalty, courage, family, and friendship, culminating in a task that will transform his and his friends' lives forever. Filled with adventure, heart, and a touch of humor, Mbalia's (Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky, rev. 7/20, and sequels) novel is a well-crafted speculative tale that captures the complexity of family and friendship bonds and the difficulty of finding and accepting one's true self. The fast-paced plot and Jax's memorable, conversational voice will keep readers engaged. This compelling narrative offers a thoughtful exploration of identity, heritage, and ancestral connection.

Reviewer: S. R. Toliver | Horn Book Magazine Issue: September, 2024

(2) PS With the cadence of a folktale, the story starts, "There was once a duck...who thought he had no luck." The next few pages of softly colored illustrations demonstrate why he might feel this way: a rain shower soaks his picnic, a wheel comes off his scooter, a tree falls on his house. So Duck sets off on a journey to seek the counsel of Wise Owl. Along the way, he encounters three creatures with their own questions: why is Fox's tummy "noisy," why does Tree have no leaves, and why does Swan feel sad? Each hopes Duck will find Wise Owl and return with answers to their questions. Washes of color full of swirls and speckles provide visually appealing backgrounds for the expressive characters and dramatic scenes. The lively art plays off the text's more measured narration, which makes the story work well as a read-aloud. Wise Owl eventually appears; she recommends a good night's sleep and a fresh perspective for Duck and provides some answers for the others. Duck searches so intently for his promised luck that it seems he has missed the point, but readers would be wrong to underestimate him. He figures out how to take charge of his circumstances just in time, and "luckily," it all works out for the best.

Reviewer: Julie Roach | Horn Book Magazine Issue: September, 2024

(2) 4-6 Princess Ash, feeling alone at court and conspicuous with her cane and braces, makes the daring move of taking Splinter as her squire -- Splinter, who isn't a boy, but "not a girl, either" (referred to with she/her pronouns in the story), and who feels most like herself wearing her brother's armor. The course of study required of squires isn't easy, particularly because Ash's older brother Lucen, the crown prince, makes it his mission to drive Splinter away. Meanwhile, Ash is asked by her mother, the queen, to spy on one of the noble families to try to discover who among them is working against the crown. Due to Lucen's interference, Splinter is absent when Ash is abducted by the conspirators, and Splinter and a guilt-stricken Lucen set out together to rescue her. The action takes many breathtaking turns, from Ash's attempts to escape from her captors to Splinter and Lucen facing peril while working out their fraught relationship, culminating in a gratifying reveal at the climax. Greater geopolitical forces swirling around the characters raise the stakes, and the close relationship between Ash and Splinter, Lucen's efforts to remake himself into a person worthy of knighthood, and Splinter's determination to never be anyone but herself make this homage to Tamora Pierce's Tortall series fully worthy of readers' admiration and delight.

Reviewer: Anita L. Burkam | Horn Book Magazine Issue: November, 2024

(2) YA Nye's (most recently Everything Comes Next, rev. 1/21) latest collection of free verse poems is divided into two parts: "No Age Is Empty" and "Sometimes We Need a Bigger Family." Her focus is on growing up and her own personal family circle, particularly her mother. The 117 lyrical poems reveal the many ways that families, friends, culture, and memories shape us. One of the book's major themes is posited at the start: the beauty of living with "the fact that we exist at all / is a random grace note / of a forgotten symphony." The poems ask deep questions such as "Who are we all, in the big picture?" or about "who you might / become, / how you might / unfold." Nye does not shy away from addressing some of life's difficulties, including her mother's depression, the constraints of having strict grandparents, and even the impact of war. In "Everyone," each of the three parts offers a powerful revelation: "Everyone has burdens"; "Everything is a mystery"; and "Everyone has secrets." The verse is vulnerable, channels emotions that are universal, and raises existential questions and observations in reflective and comforting ways: "Life / is full of mysteries. / They're not mine, not yours. / They're life's." Full of love, empathy, and compassion, these poems are thoughtful, honest, and uplifting.

Reviewer: | Horn Book Magazine Issue: September, 2024

(2) 4-6 In this graphic novel, Tate Seong wants nothing more than to be as skilled a violist as their idol, Eli Violet. Not only is Eli a musical prodigy, they're out to the world as nonbinary, while Tate's gender identity remains a secret. Tate is shocked to find upon arriving at a camp for musicians that Eli is attending incognito as regular kid Eli Vance. The two forge a pact: Eli will give Tate viola lessons, and Tate won't tell anyone about Eli's fame. With their new friend's support, Tate rises in the camp orchestra's ranks, earning themself a coveted solo spot in the final performance. Eli, on the other hand, eventually finds peace with not always being the best. The story speaks to many of the pressures that come with figuring out who you are and what you're capable of. Palmer's digital illustrations are packed with energy, frequently jumping back and forth between more detailed depictions of characters and simple comic-style doodles. Rich blends of reds, purples, and blues fill the backgrounds of each panel and page -- a strong visual addition to this musical tale. In addition to helping Tate with their music, Eli gives them the confidence to come out to their family. "This is your gift to them. They'd better appreciate it."

Reviewer: Hill Saxton | Horn Book Magazine Issue: July, 2024

(2) 4-6 Kylie fears she's too babyish to make the leap from elementary school to middle school with her friends Mara, Nikila, and Naomi. She can't seem to wear the right clothes or say the right thing, she'd rather play with her little sister than watch the scary movies her friends like, and she cries way too much. So scientifically minded Kylie devises an experiment to make herself more mature. The criteria? Not crying, plus doing everything that everyone else is doing. The experiment ultimately leads Kylie into a series of "yeses" she doesn't want to give. Agreeing to a lunch out with her friends means giving up sushi with her mom, and going on an adult-free trip to the mall puts her into some uncomfortable situations. Through parties, beach days, and sleepovers, Kylie navigates her changing friendships as her familiar formulas no longer compute. In particular, Naomi, who becomes quick to tease, lie, and keep secrets, makes Kylie wonder what kind of maturity she really wants. Throughout, Kylie's self-reflection and steady growth convey her abiding belief in honesty toward oneself and others, building a convincing and earnest arc for this endearing narrator. A meaningful and methodological story of friendship, family, and finding one's own voice.

Reviewer: | Horn Book Magazine Issue: November, 2024

(2) YA Seventeen-year-old Lucia Cruz loves the consistency of her daily routine. During a trip to San Diego for her cousin's debut -- a traditional Filipino coming-of-age party in which Luz has no interest -- her world is turned on its head. Her best friend, Esme, reveals her discontent with their customary patterns, and Luz finds out that her mom has been planning her debut, complete with an Eighteen Roses ceremony, behind her back. She returns home to contend with the possibility of trying new things, connecting with classmates besides Esme, and cobbling together an extravagant birthday celebration. Throughout Luz's last year of high school, Rogers sheds light on the overwhelming nature of self-discovery as well as the messiness of conflict between friends and of complicated families (Luz and her younger sister begrudgingly split their time between their Filipina mom and white dad, who is remarried to a younger, now-pregnant Filipina woman). Many of the protagonist's critical observations are based on fear and anxiety and, as it turns out, can be transformed into humor. Despite feeling abandoned by Esme, Luz manages to develop connections with classmates through a stand-up comedy club. And with the power of TikTok, she puts together a unique Eighteen Roses ceremony that fits her personality and style. While she often feels powerless, Luz's courage allows her to build unexpected connections, self-confidence, and community.

Reviewer: Gabi K. Huesca | Horn Book Magazine Issue: September, 2024

(2) 4-6 After eleven-year-old Amra's brother's death from complications of Marfan syndrome, her mother's remedy for Amra's grief is to arrange for her cousin Zana to spend summers with Amra in Bihac, Bosnia. This vividly told and moving memoir takes place over three consecutive summers in the years leading up to the Bosnian Genocide (preceding the events of The Cat I Never Named, rev. 1/21). The first summer of romantic crushes and days spent lazing on the banks of the River Una helps Amra to heal. "I am ancient in the ways of trauma...but [Zana] shows me another way of being." A sense of impending violence, however, undergirds the book's carefree summer setting as simmering political and sectarian tensions slowly heat up. Tata (her father) is detained, interrogated, and loses his job, while anti-Muslim sentiments become more freely voiced. An author's note provides a timeline for the Bosnian Genocide along with a "where they are now" update. The book smartly contrasts more lighthearted preteen drama with looming ethnic and religious tensions, resulting in an engaging reflection on disability and ethnic difference.

Reviewer: Julie Hakim Azzam | Horn Book Magazine Issue: July, 2024