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Nicole reviews a whimsical and charming new Middle Grade book, all about a girl in STEM. Perfect for the young scientist! Read what she has to say...

Weird Little Robots by Carolyn Crimi, illustrated by Corinna Luyken Penguin Random House  October 2019 Middle Grade

Quirky robots come to life in Carolyn Crimi's charming Middle Grade debut all about friendships, science, and magic. Eleven-year-old Penny Rose is an avid scientist whose mind shines bright with brilliant inventions. Using abandoned knick knacks, Penny Rose creates an adorable cast of robots. But in this little town, magic is brewing, and her little friends begin to move and talk on their own.  

As this is happening, Penny Rose is also dealing with being the new kid at school. She quickly befriends Lark, a passionate birder with her very own crow friend. While both girls are keen scientists, Penny Rose soon learns that Lark is known as a bit of an oddball at school. So when Penny rose receives a mysterious invitation to a secret science society and Lark doesn't, Penny Rose has to choose between her friend and an exciting new adventure. 

Nicole's rave: By far one of my favourite titles of 2019! Using clear and concise writing, the characters are well-developed and the issues richly explored. Penny Rose and Lark may be young, but the challenges faced and opportunities for growth are plentiful, making Weird Little Robots a wonderful reading experience. Told with heart and an appreciation to the complexity of middle grade years, this book does not attempt to simplify nor talk down to its readers. It's refreshing to see credence given to the nuance of young friendships and still nascent explorations of self without any compromise on the magic and charm so inherent to this genre. Along with a cast of endearing characters—including one brave squirrel—and equally charming illustrations, readers will fall in love with Weird Little Robots, and hopefully be inspired to create some magic of their very own!

Where to find in-store: Age 9

Perfect for fans of: Waylon! One Awesome Thing by Sara Pennypacker and illustrated by Marla Frazee, Charlotte's Web by E.B. White, Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery

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Lizzie reviews a very dark and gothic title just in time for Halloween! Read on, if you dare...

The Grace Year by Kim Liggett Raincoast/Wednesday Books September 2019 YA/New Adult

In Garner County, it is believed that girls in their sixteenth year emit a powerful aphrodisiac, capable of driving men mad with lust and consume older women with jealousy. That is why, when the girls come of age, they are banished to the forest for a year—their “Grace Year”—to release their magic into the wild, and remain pure for the husbands that await them upon their return. That is, if they can survive what awaits them in the forest. 

Sixteen-year-old Tierney James has long dreamed of a society where women are not pitted against each other, and are valued for more than their ability to reproduce. As her own Grace Year begins, however, she soon realizes that it is not the elements that present the biggest challenge to the girls’ survival, but each other.

Lizzie’s Rave: This is my very favourite book release for Fall 2019!! (And I don’t say this lightly because there are some really great new titles this season). From start to finish this is a book that pulls the reader in and doesn’t let go until well after the last page has been read. Don’t let the pink cover fool you—this is a dark and gothic-esque dystopic novel with twists and turns throughout. Although I was not a fan of the romance and quasi-love triangle in the middle of the book, it does all come together at the end of the novel.  At its core, this is a book about survival, and what women can accomplish when they work together instead of being pitted against each other—a theme which is highly relevant for many teenage girls. Liggett develops her characters naturally and expertly controls the escalation of tension throughout the book.

This is a book that is HIGHLY recommended and will not soon be forgotten by the reader.

Where to find in-store: Age 14+ 

Perfect for Fans of: The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins, The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood, Girls with Sharp Sticks by Suzanne Young, Wilder Girls by Rory Power

Content Warnings: Sexual content, violence against women, cannibalism, girls being drugged, arranged marriages

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Nicole has the perfect book for Halloween night! Get ready for adventure!

Kitty and the Moonlight Rescue by Paula Harrison, Illustrated by Jenny Løvlie September 2019 Greenwillow Books (HarperCollins) Early Chapter Book

Kitty may be small, but she dreams big. When she grows up, she wants to be just like her mom: a superhero with catlike abilities. Like her mom, Kitty has inherited remarkable gifts, including being able to understand and talk to cats. One night, a mewing feline comes in search of Kitty's mom for a daring rescue. But with mom gone on another mission, the cat calls on Kittty. Donning her new apparel, Kitty decides the time is now to start believing in herself. Kitty's off into the night, to make a name for herself as the town's newest little hero! 

Nicole's Rave:  A small but mighty tale! Here is yet more proof that great books come in all sizes. Perfect to read together or independently, this splendid series is a perfect mix of illustration and text to engage young readers. In time for Halloween, readers will indulge in Kitty's many nighttime adventures, and talking feline friends, each with a distinct look and personality. The rescue mission is a daring one, and it illustrates to readers that bravery comes in all forms. We may not all speak cat or wear superhero suits, but by acting in spite of our fears, we can all be heroes. 

Where to find in-store: Age 7

Perfect for Fans of: The Princess in Black by Shannon Hale; Mia Mayhem is a Superhero! by Kara West; Owl Diaries by Rebecca Elliott

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Basil reviews the breathtaking new sci-fi/fantasy YA romance Crier’s War by Nina Varela!

Crier’s War by Nina Varela October 2019 Harper Collins/HarperTeen Young Adult Fantasy

Many years ago, humans and androids (called Automae) fought in the War of Kinds, and the Automae won a costly victory. Automae have ruled the land of Rabu ever since, and humans have been subjugated and thought of as a lesser species. After decades, however, dissent and revolution are brewing among the humans, and Automae are resorting to more brutal methods to keep humans in check. A young worker on the king’s estate named Ayla is one of these human revolutionaries. Her family was slaughtered by the king and in return her only aim is to kill his daughter, Princess Crier.

Crier is an Automae who was created to be perfect in every way. The perfect daughter to the king, the perfect successor to the throne. She is betrothed to a fierce warrior who heads the Automae Resistant Movement, a radical organization that plans to get rid of humans almost altogether. One day, Crier and Ayla’s paths cross and the consequences of their meeting will change the course of their lives, and history, forever.

Basil’s rave: This was a very cool read, and I’m saying this as someone who usually steers away from fantasy. I loved the combination of science fiction elements into standard fantasy templates, and there was a really good slow-burn romance to top it all off. The main characters, Ayla and Crier, were both very complex and best of all, morally grey. This book is the first in a series, so it mostly sets the stage for what’s to come, but I loved seeing all the plot threads come together—there were so many twists and turns that was kept in suspense until the last page. I can’t believe I have to wait for the next in the series to come out, I want to know what happens to Ayla and Crier now! This is the kind of book you read and then immediately give it to all of your friends so you can have more people to geek out about it with. A good fall read!

Where to find in store: Fantasy - 14+

Perfect for fans of: We Hunt the Flame by Hafsah Faizal, Once and Future by Amy Rose Capetta and Cori McCarthy, A Thousand Nights by E.K. Johnston, Nocturna by Maya Motayne 

Content warnings: Brief sexuality, drinking in a party context, fantasy/action violence

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Nicole reviews the #1 bestseller Guts by Raina Telgemeier. Don’t miss out on this fantastic book!

Guts By Raina Telgemeier Scholastic Inc September 2019 Middle Grade/Graphic Novel

Young Raina is nine when she starts to notice strange things happening to her body. When she's stressed, or eats particular foods, her stomach starts grumbling, gases emit, and most discomforting of all: she vomits. Her experience leaves her fearful to eat or drink anything lest she trigger the same reaction. Given Raina's extreme fears, her parents take her to therapy. Through talking, reflection, and first-hand experiences, Raina learns that we all have fears and differences, and it takes guts to work through them.

Nicole’s Rave: Raina Telgemeier upholds her title of Middle Grade Graphic Novelist Supreme with her latest autobiographical tale Guts. Using her signature style of simple yet expressive drawings, she shares with young readers a time in middle grade when she had to endure phobias and first learned of her condition called Irritable Bowl Syndrome (IBS). Telgemeier welcomes readers into her life, allowing us to feel that we are right there with her as she contends with changing friendships, bullying, and forgiveness. She is not afraid to utilize the power of the graphic novel medium to exhibit a broad range of emotions, using dialogue and visuals to speak in a way that excess textual description may bog down. The material is sensitive, dealing with coming-of-age, puberty, and bodily functions. Raina manages to show us that even while looking at one part of her life, the events they reflect encompass many components of our shared experience. 

Where to find in-store: Graphic Novel section

Perfect for Fans of: Be Prepared by Vera Brosgol, El Deafo by Cece Bell, New Kid by Jerry Craft

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Alan Gratz is back with another powerful and moving historical novel for kids. Read Lizzie’s rave review below!

Allies by Alan Gratz October 2019 Scholastic Press Middle Grade/YA (high Middle Grade)

It is June 6, 1944; D-day. The day that would begin the long and bloody campaign to liberate Western Europe from Nazi occupation. The allied invasion of Normandy (code name: Operation Overlord) was a pivotal moment of the Second World War. American, Canadian, and British forces came together by land, sea, and air, in one of the largest military operations in history.

The novel takes place during the 24 hours of June 6, 1944, told from multiple perspectives. An American solider, a Canadian paratrooper, a French resistance fighter, and a British tank driver all tell their stories about fighting on the beaches of Normandy on that day. Gratz puts his readers right in the middle of the action and weaves together an incredible narrative of resilience, determination and teamwork.

Lizzie’s rave: Wow, wow, WOW! Alan Gratz does it again! This fast-paced and action-packed novel gives readers a real sense of just how huge an operation D-day was, the number of people involved, and the unimaginable sacrifices of those who fought. Gratz fully immerses the reader in the horrific reality of this invasion, with very few breaks from the intensity and violence. This book is not for the faint of heart; just as many perished on D-Day, not all of the protagonists in this book survive the battle, but all of the characters are well developed and believable, each with their own backstory and reason to fight the Nazis.

Interspersed with the accurate depictions of battle, bombings, and sky-diving are stories of hope, dreams for a future free of prejudice, and the power of friendship in impossibly tough times. A must-read for all middle grade readers over the age of twelve, in particular those with an interest in historical fiction about World War 2.

Where to find in-store:  Age 12

Perfect for fans of: Resistance by Jennifer Nielsen, Refugee by Alan Gratz, The Nazi Hunters by Neal Bascomb, Number the Stars by Lois Lowry, The War That Saved My Life by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley

Content warnings: extreme violence, death, vivid descriptions of D-Day battle and horrors of war.

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After a hiatus, Mabel’s reviews are BACK and who better to hail our triumphant return than one of our best reviewers, Nicole! 

Read what she has to say about the novel Mrs. Everything by Jennifer Weiner...

Mrs. Everything by Jennifer Weiner June 2019 Simon and Schuster Adult

Mrs. Everything spans decades to tell the story of two sisters, Jo and Bethie, as they struggle to navigate a world hostile to their identities and experiences. Jo likes girls, and for Bethie, mommy's little girl, the road to her serene life is altered following multiple, life-shattering events. While their lives seem ordinary on the outside, with two parents and a middle-class life that has granted them financial conveniences and opportunities, beneath the surface brew tensions, tragedies and secrets that they carry with them. Touching upon current political themes, and rooted in an exploration of how feminist movements have invariably effected the lives of women across America; this book is about the connections we make, the families that bind us, and whether we choose to be shackled to the past, or learn from it.

Nicole's Rave: This book is both an epic in its rich exploration of a family of women spanning different generations, and a delicately rendered tale that makes room for the textured details for its many inhabitants. I appreciate that beyond looking at feminist issues within the very popular lens of "working women vs family women", and the tensions that exist therein, Mrs. Everything explores how identities are comprised of layered nuances, and that even as women, our self-perception moulds and changes so greatly beyond these binaries. Jennifer Weiner has both relished the grand aspects of these characters' lives, while also making me feel that I've lived with them every step of the way.

Where to find in-store: adult section

For fans of: Dual Citizens by Alix Ohlin, Women Talking by Miriam Toews, Trick Mirror by Jia Tolentino, Little Fish by Casey Plett

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Basil reviews and raves about a new spooky middle grade book about ghosts, grief, love, and family. See what they have to say…

The Ghost Collector by Allison Mills Annick Press September 2019 Middle Grade

Shelly and her grandmother can see ghosts. They can help them, too. Shelly and her grandmother can catch ghosts in their hair and help them move on to the afterlife. Shelly lives with her mother and grandmother in an old house that they can barely afford to live in. Her grandmother uses ghost catching as the family business, charging rich white people to take care of ghosts in their homes. Shelly mostly deals with the spirits of dead animals—mice, birds, sometimes small dogs. Her mother doesn’t approve and thinks Shelly’s grandmother is irresponsible for taking Shelly out on these ghost hunting trips. Then, Shelly’s mother dies, and Shelly is desperate to find her ghost somewhere. The characters in this story are Ililiw (Cree) and settler Canadian, and the story is based in part on real stories about the author’s grandmother that she heard growing up. It adds an interesting dimension to an already intriguing paranormal middle-grade story. 

Basil’s rave: I have to admit, I’m biased to like books with ghosts in them. I grew up reading spooky stories like R. L. Stine’s Goosebumps series and was already excited to read this story when I picked it up. But debut author Allison Mills understands something about ghosts that only the best storytellers do:  the ghosts should be symbols of something greater. Instead of only adding a spooky atmosphere, these ghosts tell a greater story about grief and loss and rememberance. The writing was so beautiful and this story made me fall in love with middle grade all over again. The interaction between Shelly’s grandmother and her Ililiw (Cree) worldview with the police and others in her community added an extra layer to this story about grief and spooky ghosts, meaning the ghosts took on further roles as players in larger cultural tensions. Shelly makes friends with ghosts and they listen to cassettes by The Cure, so really, I couldn’t wish for much more. Do yourself a favour and jump right into this one! There’s so much to talk about I can’t possibly cover it all, and the story is fewer than 200 pages. Just read it! It’s so good!

Where to find in-store: Age 12

Perfect for fans of: The Elevator Ghost by Glen Huser, Haunted Canada series by Joel A. Sutherland, In the Dark by E. Nesbit.

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Lizzie reads the new middle grade Charlie Thorne and the Last Equation by Stuart Gibbs (Spy School series, FunJungle series) and absolutely LOVES it!

Charlie Thorne and the Last Equation by Stuart Gibbs September 2019 Simon and Schuster Middle Grade

Unbeknownst to the public, when scientist Albert Einstein was in his prime, he discovered an equation that was so powerful it could destroy the world. Einstein deemed the equation too dangerous to entrust to humanity, so he hid it with the intention of destroying it before his death. He never got the chance. Now a dangerous organization is closing in on it, and the CIA is forced to seek help from the most brilliant person they can find: 12-year-old Charlie Thorne. Charlie isn’t just a genius, however—she is also a troublemaker. As the result of a huge misunderstanding, the CIA thinks she is a criminal mastermind as well. Suddenly, Charlie finds herself in the middle of a dangerous mission that will take her all around the world as she uncovers clues and cracks codes left behind by Albert Einstein himself.

Lizzie’s rave: I CANNOT recommend this book highly enough!! Stuart Gibbs is already a much loved middle grade author thanks to his series Spy School and FunJungle, and with this brand new series, Gibbs is upping his game yet again. Funny, smart, action-packed and full of adventure this book is absolutely impossible to put down! Although he has strong female characters in all of his novels, Charlie is Gibbs’ first female protagonist, and she is as fearlessly courageous and well-written as any of his male characters.

While this is an epic adventure that takes the reader around the globe, it also tackles some hard hitting issues such as globalization, terrorism, immigration, and gun-control in an age-appropriate and engaging way. This is a fast-paced book that doesn't slow down for a moment, and will keep readers on the edge of their seats from start to finish.

Packed to the brim with action, adventure, and code-cracking, it doesn’t get much better than this! A MUST for all middle grade readers.

Where to find in-store: Age 12

Perfect for Fans of: Alex Rider series by Anthony Horowitz, Cherub series by Michael Muchamore, The Blackthorn Key series by Kevin Sands, Masterminds series by Gordon Korman, Mucus Mayhem (Almost Epic Squad #1) by Kevin Sylvester and Britt Wilson

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Our most prolific reviewer Lizzie is back at it, this time with a review of The Good Thieves by Katherine Rundell! 

The Good Thieves by Katherine Rundell August 2019 Simon and Schuster Middle Grade

Vita and her mother have travelled all the way across the Atlantic to New York City to bring Vita’s grandfather Jack back to England with them. Jack has been living in destitution ever since he was was conned out of his mansion and vast riches by Sorrotore, a crooked businessman with Mafia connections. Unable to bear seeing her grandfather so defeated and unhappy, Vita is determined to recover Jack’s home. She begins formulating a plan to make things right. With the help of two boys from the circus and a young pickpocket from the streets, Vita sets off to bring Sorrotore to justice—no matter what.

Lizzie’s Rave: Set against a backdrop of 1930’s New York, this book has it all:  pickpockets, circus acts, gangsters, and trained animals, and an amazing adventure. This novel captures the reader’s imagination right from the very beginning and carries the action and suspense through until the end. Vita is a bold, brave and fiercely determined heroine, and the secondary characters in this story are no less intriguing. Very well written, this is a novel that will expand middle-grade readers’ vocabulary, and Rundell describes 1930’s New York brilliantly—the perfect backdrop to this story. This is a fast-paces novel full of heart that will appeal to any middle grade reader who has ever wanted to join the circus, or who has thought an adult’s actions were wrong and wanted to make things right. Highly recommended!

Where to find in store: Age 11

Perfect for Fans of: The Magic Misfits by Neil Patrick Harris, Peter Nimble and His Fantastic Eyes by Jonathan Auxier, The Explorer by Katherine Rundell, Mr. Lemoncello’s Library by Chris Grabenstein, The Star of Kazan by Eva Ibbotson, The Land of Stories by Chris Colfer

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Lizzie reviews the epic fantasy Crown of Feathers by Nicki Pau-Preto!

Crown of Feathers by Nicki Pau-Preto (Crown of Feathers #1) Simon and Schuster/Simon Pulse February 2019 YA

A long time ago, the world was ruled by an empire of Phoenix Riders until a feud between two ruling sisters wiped them out. But the Riders have been rebuilding in secret, and have created a fragile community of warriors whose existence would easily be eradicated once again if the new empire found out about their existence.

Sixteen-year-old Veronyka and her controlling older sister Val have been living the nomadic lifestyle since their parents died, moving around the kingdom in search of phoenix eggs, which are incredibly rare and extremely valuable. It is no easy feat to locate eggs of these creatures, which many now believe to be a myth. However, the girls are persistent and their search finally yields results when they discover a pair of eggs.

Just as it seems that things are finally going according to plan, Val commits murder and brutally betrays her sister. Veronyka leaves her sister behind and sets off on her own in search of the legendary Riders. 

Lizzie’s Rave: This is SUCH a fabulous epic high fantasy AND is by a Canadian author! I brought it with me on a  train ride, and devoured this 500 page novel start to finish before I arrived at my destination 3 hours later (yes, I am a fast reader, but still!).  It does start out a little slow at the beginning, as the author takes the time to set up the story and build the world for her readers, however all the information is relevant and adds intrigue and additional layers to the storyline. The choice to tell the story from three perspectives: Veronyka, Tristan (an apprentice Phoenix Rider), and Sev (a soldier in the Emipre’s army), is very well executed and gives the reader well rounded insight into the world Pao Preto has created and events as they unfold. The multiple storylines come together very nicely, and the characters are very engaging and three-dimensional.

Not for the casual fantasy reader, this is an incredible novel that will keep readers enthralled until the very end. Highly recommended for all fantasy lovers! 

Where to find in store: Fantasy

Perfect for Fans of: Eragon by Christopher Paolini, Graceling by Kristen Cashore, Children of Blood and Bone by Tomi Adeyemi, Furyborn by Claire Legrand, The Numair Chronicles series by Tamora Pierce

Content warnings: Some fantasy violence

Be on the lookout for the paperback edition, which releases December 2019, as well as the second Crown of Feathers book, Heart of Flames, now available to pre-order and out February 2020 with Simon Pulse! 

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Lizzie reviews There’s Something About Sweetie by Sandhya Menon!

There’s Something About Sweetie by Sandhya Menon May 2019 Simon Schuster YA

Ashish never used to have a problem getting dates, but when he gets dumped by his cheating girlfriend after two years, he finds that he’s a mess when it comes to girls. In a moment of desperation, Ashish asks his parents to set him up with an Indian girl - something they have been wanting to do for years. Not quite believing that after so long Ashish is allowing them to set him up with a girl, his parents stipulate that Ashish let them plan out the initial dates he and the girl will go on. 

Sweetie gets good grades, loves singing, and is one of her school’s star track athletes. Despite this, all her mother sees is a fat girl. She dictates what Sweetie can or cannot wear, who is “on her level” when it comes to dating, and monitors what her daughter eats. Tired of being fat-shamed by her family, Sweetie begins the “Sassy Sweetie Project” to prove to her parents and herself that she is capable of anything.

Each with something to prove to themselves and their families, Ashish and Sweetie begin to date. But when they start to develop feelings for each other, they must figure out if, by being together, they each can find their own individuality.

Lizzie’s Rave: Sandhya Menon has done it again! This is a super cute boy-meets-girl novel about self-discovery and standing up for what is important. Although it has been described as the second book in a series, this book stands completely alone with only a quick cameo appearance by Dimple and Rishi. The perfect YA summer romance, this book also covers serious topics such as body image, self-love, and the importance of being true to yourself. This combined with its delightful cast of characters, and very charming story makes There’s Something About Sweetie an absolute must-read!

Where to find in store: 14+

Perfect for Fans of: When Dimple Met Rishi by Sandhya Menon, American Panda by Gloria Chao, Beauty of the Moment by Tanaz Bhathena, To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before by Jenny Han, Love from A to Z by S.K. Ali

Content warnings: Fat-shaming

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Read more about our titles celebrating the 50th anniversary of the moon landing here! 

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Lizzie reviews Girls of July by Alex Flinn! 

HarperTeen June 2019 Young Adult

When Spider and her grandmother decide to rent out the spare rooms at the cottage to unknown high school girls for the month of July, they have no idea what to expect. Living in close quarters with strangers who have very different backgrounds and personalities brings its challenges, especially as each girl is using their time at the cottage as an escape. Britta has to get away from her mom’s creepy new boyfriend, Kate is fleeing her father’s political scandal, Meredith is trying to distance herself from her academic overachievements, and even Spider is struggling with chronic pain. As the girls get to know each other and come out of their shells, they discover that sometimes you have to get away from your life to find out who you really are.

Lizzie’s Rave: This is the perfect easy feel-good summer read! Told in alternating perspectives, the author does an excellent job of establishing different tones for each character, making it very easy to tell who is narrating at any given point. Refreshingly, there is no catty, back-stabbing interactions between any of the girls. Instead, the girls support each other despite their differences and disagreements, providing a great example of the power of female friendship. While not set at a camp, this book definitely has a summer camp feel to it, and reminded me strongly of The Sisterhood of the Travelling Pants. Although the storyline is a bit cliched and predictable at times, it makes this no less of an enjoyable read. Highly recommended! 

Where to find it in store: 14+

Perfect for fans of: Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants by Ann Bradshaw, The Summer I Turned Pretty by Jenny Han, Eden Lake by Jane Roper, Sleepaway Girls by Jen Calonita, and Five Summers by Una LaMarche

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Basil reviews Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston

St. Martin's Griffin/Macmillan May 2019 New Adult

Alex Claremont-Diaz is the son of the first woman president of the United States. He's charming, he's driven, and he also happens to have a vendetta against a British royal, Prince Henry of Wales. The two are involved in a very public altercation, and in order to save British/U.S. international relations, Alex and Henry embark on a fake friendship. The friendship soon grows into something more, and they struggle to keep their relationship both casual and secret. Tensions mount; Alex's mom is running for re-election; Henry faces pressure at home to hide his sexuality; and Alex begins to wonder if his dream to be a congressman by age 30 is ultimately worth it, and how far he’s willing to go for a chance at true love.

Basil’s rave: In the author's acknowledgements, Casey McQuiston says that the goal of the book was to provide comfort and a message of love in hard times. Set in an alternate universe where a woman Democrat won the U.S. 2016 election, this book is more healing than I thought possible. I have to confess, I don't usually read romance but the premise of this one was too good to pass up! It's a delicious blend of The West Wing, The Prince and I, and Pride & Prejudice. Henry and Alex's chemistry is so natural, and their banter is so funny, that it definitely takes you out of the present moment. It is the perfect escapist summer read! If you're looking for something sweet to read that also carries a great message and is laugh-out-loud funny to boot, you won't want to miss this book!— Reviewed by Basil

Where to find it in store: Adult For Fans Of: The Gentleman's Guide to Vice and Virtue by Mackenzi Lee, Carry On by Rainbow Rowell, Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda by Becky Albertalli.

— originally posted June 26, 2019 by Mabel’s Fables

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Basil reviews I Wish You All The Best by Mason Deaver

Scholastic May 2019 Young Adult

When Ben De Backer comes out to their parents as non-binary, they're kicked out of the house without any time to pack. They have no one to turn to but Hannah, their estranged sister, and her husband, whom Ben has never even met. They move in with Hannah, enroll in a new school, and start seeing a therapist. Ben decides to only tell Hannah, her husband, their best friend, Mariam, and their therapist that they are non-binary, afraid of what coming out might mean for them. Then Ben meet Nathan, a new classmate, and the balance they've created crumbles. Ben wants to be open with Nathan, but can't risk losing him. With graduation only a few months away, Ben must navigate first love, panic attacks, family issues, and, ultimately, self-acceptance in this stunning and important debut novel.

Basil's rave: As a non-binary reader, there has never been a book that I have felt was more important to me than this one. I Wish You All the Best deals authentically with non-binary identity and is written by a non-binary author. It is informative to folks who aren't non-binary and incredibly relatable to those who are. It's sweet, heartfelt, and just so, so real and validating. I'm thrilled to be living in a time when I can read this book, and even more importantly, I can share this book with LGBTQ folks who are still figuring themselves out. It was a more powerful read than I expected; I never thought a book would come along and reflect my struggles with being non-binary and transgender as perfectly and honestly as this book did. A lot of press surrounding this book focuses on the non-binary aspect, for obvious reasons, but it's also just a well-told tale about finding your voice and your place in the world. Also, there's a sweet love story at its core, which is the icing on this delicious cake! This book is going to change lives, I can feel it!  reviewed by Basil

Where to find in store: 14+ For fans of: Simon vs. The Homo Sapiens Agenda by Becky Albertalli, Radio Silence by Alice Oseman, Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Saenz, and Darius the Great is Not Okay by Adib Khorram

— originally posted June 19, 2019 by Mabel’s Fables

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Basil reviews Kings, Queens, and In-Betweens by Tanya Boteju

Simon Pulse May 2019 Young Adult

Nima Kumara-Clark's life hasn't been very extraordinary, or even interesting, so far. She's in love with her straight friend, her mom left over a year ago, and she keeps running into the town delinquent, Gordon Grant. But Nima's world is turned upside-down when she wanders into a drag performance at her small town's summer festival. Suddenly, she experiences new possibilities for love, friendship, guidance, and acceptance in this community she barely even knew existed. Her best friend, Charles, doesn't seem so accepting, and Nima worries that no one will understand her desire for the glitter and glam of drag. Will she be able to stay true to herself, even without knowing what that means? 

Basil's rave: A big-hearted debut novel from Tanya Boteju, this book is all about acceptance and self love, from a queer point of view. Kings, Queens, and In-Betweens really made me laugh and smile. With a little bit of drag-queen magic, everyone gets to be their most fabulous selves, which has added spring to my step this spring season. (Also, I want to go to an amateur drag night ASAP!) While this is a pretty standard coming-of-age tale, the drag twist made it by turns hilarious, charming, and even bittersweet. I really liked the ambiguous conclusion of some of the plot threads. I think it's a very well-observed look at being a misfit in high school. If only I had this book as a teen! Even non-LGBTQ readers will see themselves in the ordinary, awkward Nima. Overall, a sweet and charming read. — reviewed by Basil

Age in Store: 14+ For fans of: What If It's Us by Becky Albertalli and Adam Silvera, I'll Give You the Sun by Jandy Nelson, The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky, The Inexplicable Logic of My Life by Benjamin Alire Saenz.

— originally posted June 12, 2019 by Mabel’s Fables