In a mostly autobiographical tale told in verse, Jacqueline describes growing up in the North and South in the 1960s and 1970s. She always wanted to be a writer, but living in her sister's shadow, she never knew she could until someone saw it in her. This is a beautiful story about family, life, and going for your dreams. And it's a National Book Award Finalist for Young People's Literature!
I was so lucky to hear Jacqueline speak last weekend at NCSLMA (Jenni and Justine were there too!), where she recited parts from her books to make them truly come alive. If you haven't seen her in person, now is your chance! She'll be at Quail Ridge Books in Raleigh on Wednesday, October 22!
Have you ever read a book so lovely that you wanted to hug it and hold it close to your heart? That is what Ivan is to me. It all started with The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate, which won the Newbery Award in 2013, and told the story of the incredible silverback gorilla who spent most of his life in a glass cage in a shopping mall. Applegate's novel told Ivan's story through his perspective, but this new picture book tells his story through an informational lens.
Fans of Ivan, you will love this book!
The Book with No Pictures by B.J. Novak is hilarious. Just watch the video below for proof:
Finally, Sam and Dave Dig a Hole written by Mac Barnett and illustrated by Jon Klassen (what a dynamite duo!) had such a delightfully surprising ending that I can't wait to see what others think about it. Here's the trailer:
Enjoy the new books!
