Millie Fleur Saves the Night by NY Times Bestselling Author Christy Mandin

 

When Millie Fleur moved into the town of Garden Glen, she discovered the people were afraid of the dark and turned their lights off.  Millie knew that the dark wasn’t scary and that  there were many enchanting things to find in the dark such as a beautiful moon garden and nocturnal animals.  She baked delicious moon pies to welcome the dark back. Soon the night creatures including raccoons, owls, deer, and many more reappeared..  And slowly the townspeople became braver, turning out their lights and discovering how amazing and beautiful night can be.

-Julie B.

Bloodmarked by Tracy Deonn

    Bloodmarked is a thrilling sequel to Legendborn, following Bree as she continues in her quest. Now recognized as the Scion of Arthur, the Order sees her in a completely different light, needing to protect her and keep her real identity a secret. In addition, she is also the descendant of a powerful root crafter who she can channel through her own abilities, and if anyone else within the Order finds out what she can do, her life will be even more at stake. Untrained and unable to control her powers, she finds herself caught in a web of lies danger, and unrest. All of this while still trying to find out what happened to Nick...

I found this book to be consistent in its tone and prose, and continuing to follow the first person narrative (there's even a surprise near end for how this shift). It was an enjoyable read, and as you keep reading, the tension just keeps sucking you in especially as you continue to see Bree learn, struggle, and grow. I alternated between listening and reading, and both were amazing, so I definitely recommend the audiobook as well.

One key theme I took away from this book was "Autonomy". Bree is surrounded by people telling her what to do, where to go, how to feel, and how to live. What does it feel like to not have any control of your fate? To be surrounded by people constantly making decisions for you; To be given gifts that people tell you over and over are a blessing or a curse, while in the same breath, telling you how you should use them. What does it mean to stand in your truth and live life how you see fit? This is Bree's struggle. 

And by the end of the book, you'll see that life truly warps around us when we finally claim what is rightfully ours. 

- Leo H.

The I Love You Book by Todd Parr

 

This colorful book celebrates the unconditional love between parent and child in various situations such as when playing peek-a-boo-boo, feeling sad, scared, brave, cuddling, and other times throughout the day.  Reassures the child that they are loved every day no matter what the situation.  

Age Group:  0-6.

- Julie B. 

Julie B. is a classroom volunteer with Ready Readers, a non-profit organization that strives to expand literacy for young children in low-income communities through high-quality books, strong relationships and literacy-related experiences.