Happy Book Birthday, Europa by James Ponti!

It's time to shoutout another book birthday! This time, it's the 7th in a fun spy series for middle graders from a very popular author, who is known for his exciting tales. I have read several of the books in this series, so I'm pretty sure what type of read this will be...well, unless something surprising happens. I'm looking forward to see what the characters are up to in this latest adventure because it's always bound with high-stakes, action, friendship, and very unexpected twists and turns.

Let's open this one up and see if it keeps the series as exciting as it has been so far.

EUROPA

City Spies

by James Ponti

Aladdin

Middle Grade Spy Fiction

384 pages

ages 8 to 12

In this seventh installment in the New York Times bestselling series from Edgar Award winner James Ponti, the young group of spies work to prevent a dangerous criminal from escaping prison in another international adventure perfect for fans of Spy School and Charlie Thorne.

The City Spies are ready to start fresh with a new home, new schools, and a new directive now that Clementine has come in from the cold and Le Fantôme has been put behind bars. But their plans are put into jeopardy when Umbra threatens to attack multiple high-level targets across Europe unless he is released from prison. With intel leading them to Rome, Paris, London, and Amsterdam, the City Spies split up and race across the continent solving codes and chasing clues in an effort to thwart the attacks. With so many moving parts, the City Spies are going to have pull out all the stops if they have any chance to succeed at this latest mission.

GOODREADS     /     AMAZON     /      PUBLISHER

MY TIDBITS

Tension, action, and, for all things, clever-puzzle solving skills come together to form another fun adventure.

After bringing Le Fantome behind bars and having Clementine return, the City Spies are now in London after losing their other base. But that doesn't mean things are going to quiet down. Instead, Umbra is planning bomb attacks, and while the crew first believes them to be in London, it soon becomes clear that several major, European cities are on the target list. So, they divide up to stop the terror...hopefully, before it begins. Of course, things don't run completely smoothly because the villains are vicious, and Umbra isn't an enemy to be underestimated.

It's always a treat to dive into Ponti's work. The tale flies by quickly and smoothly, letting each scene come across with natural flow...and that while the City Spies are up against anything but normal circumstances. They always work together and do their best to solve each new problem. In this latest installment, Ponti takes the problem solving to a new level with more puzzles and riddles that need to be solved. So, fans of this sort of thing are going to especially enjoy this 7th adventure. As with the other adventures, there's never a boring moment, and every step forward seems to find more complex issues that need to be solved. The teamwork is always inspiring and makes sure that no singular character outshines the rest. That doesn't mean that everything goes smoothly, though, since the City Spies do make mistakes...sometimes big ones. This adds to the tension and makes the read that much more grabbing.

City Spy fans are going to enjoy this adventure as much as the others. There are plenty of surprises, gray characters, and heart as well as action. The City Spies aren't done, yet, though, so we'll see what adventure lies in store for them next.

And here he is...

James Ponti is the New York Times bestselling author of four middle grade book series: The Sherlock Society following a group of young detectives; City Spies, about an unlikely squad of five kids from around the world who form an elite MI6 Spy Team; the Edgar Award–winning Framed! series, about a pair of tweens who solve mysteries in Washington, DC; and the Dead City trilogy, about a secret society that polices the undead living beneath Manhattan. His books have appeared on more than fifteen different state award lists, and he is the founder of a writers group known as the Renegades of Middle Grade. James is also an Emmy–nominated television writer and producer who has worked for many networks including Nickelodeon, Disney Channel, PBS, History, and Spike TV, as well as NBC Sports. He lives with his family in Orlando, Florida. Find out more at JamesPonti.com.

We Remember Your Baptism by Meta Herrick Carlson

Happy Sunday! I hope your day looks like it's going to be as cheerful and nice as our day will be. After the last few weeks of snow and cold, the sunshine seems even nicer. There is still snow in patches, but I suspect we'll see a little more of that or ice before the month is over.

Today's read stays in the Sunday direction and looks at baptism. I believe this one reminds readers of their own baptisms, but maybe, it can be used for happening ones, too. We'll just have to open it up and find out!

WE REMEMBER YOUR BAPTISM

by Meta Herrick Carlson

Illustrated by Clara Anganuzzi

Beaming Books

Picture Book  Religious

40 pages

ages 4 to 8

COMING FEBRUARY 17th!!!

"You may not remember your baptism, so we tell you the story again and again."
With lyrical text, this picture book lovingly describes the collective memory that a family and church community carry about a child's baptism and what it means to be washed and held in the current of God's love.

We remember the beginning, when the breath of God moved over the waters of the deep. We remember your baptism too--when God's word was spoken and water was poured to welcome you as a beloved child of God! Harkening back to biblical stories of how water refreshed communities and made people whole, and pondering how water reminds us of God's forever love, this picture book captures the depth and heart of the sacrament of baptism.

A beautiful read-aloud for baptism celebrations, anniversaries, confirmation, and any time a family or church community wants to retell the story of a child's baptism. We Remember Your Baptism includes a presentation page, a pastoral message from the author, and a place to record baptism memories.

GOODREADS   /    PUBLISHER

MY TIDBITS

With beautiful illustrations and a poetic flow, this is a lovely book to not only look back at a baptism but discover how it comes together with daily life.

The book begins with a page for the reader to add their name, making it ideal for gifting. At the end, there's also space for a photo of the baptism and more, which rounds off this personalization angle nicely. The 'story' begins with a family sitting down to view photos from the children's first baptisms. The main focus, then, slides onto the water, and this holds the rest of the way through. Starting with how God formed life in the waters in the very beginning, the book, then, leads through moments such as swimming in the ocean to watering flowers and so much more. Various stories from the Bible involving water are also touched upon. Each time, the text points out the significance of water in the various situations and ties it into the religious life. At the end of the book, there are hints and suggestions for care takers, parents, and guardians on activities and other ways to work with the theme.

The illustrations draw in and are done in watercolor, which is very fitting. They carry a more artistic direction when needed, and slide into more distinct detailed scenes when that style is more fitting. It's enjoyable to gaze through the pages, and they fit the text nicely to create a lovely read-aloud. The text is written with four short lines, which flow smoothly. Some of the vocabulary words are a bit more difficult and work well for the upper end of the intended age group. But then, the text often hits at deeper meanings, which will also work better for the upper end of the intended audience level, since younger listeners might not understand some of the indirect meanings. It will probably work better with patient listeners than more active ones due to the slower pacing. Many aspects of this read can be used to open up to discussions and even lead to other lessons...such as the Bible stories mentioned during this read.

And here they are...

Meta Herrick Carlson is a pastor, a poet, and the author of Ordinary Blessings and Ordinary Blessings for Parents. Her work is rooted in a love for meaningful ritual, accessible language, healthy communities, and the gospel still expanding. Her words are inspired by God's delight in our real and ordinary lives. She laughs at her own jokes and packs extra snacks just in case. Meta and her family live in Minneapolis, Minnesota, on Dakota land.
Website: metaherrickcarlson.com
Twitter: @herrickmeta
Instagram: @metaherrickcarlson

Clara Anganuzzi was raised in the Seychelles Islands, where she would draw on every surface she could find. She has always had a fond love for the sea and all types of critters, who often inhabit her drawings. Clara now spends her days doodling in her plant-filled studio overlooking Bristol. She is the author-illustrator of The Ocean Gardener and Strong. She also illustrated Dear Earth by Isabel Otter and How to be Brave by Karl Newson. 

Zicky: Wrath of the Rat King by Darin S Cape

Today's read heads into adventure pure in, what should be, a fast-paced graphic novel. I'm expecting fantasy goodness with tension and tons of action. I'm not sure if this all happens in a child's dreams or exactly how the world is set, but it will be fun to find out. Plus, what do robots have in common with giant rats?

Let's find out!

WRATH OF THE RAT KING

Zicky #1

by Darin S Cape

Illustrated Zeno Decrux and

Hiorsh Gabotto

SHP Comics

Middle Grade Fantasy

160 pages

ages 9 and up

COMING APRIL 14th!!!

Zicky: Wrath of the Rat King is an all-ages fantasy adventure graphic novel combining isekai manga with western comic storytelling. With its expressive visual style, cheeky humor, and emotionally grounded characters, Zicky puts a fresh spin on classic kai (portal fantasy) storytelling. Zicky is ideal for readers who love fast-moving fantasy with heart. A coming-of-age story set in a strange and dangerous world, this graphic novel delivers a unique voice and a vivid, unforgettable journey.
Deep underground, Zicky plunges into the lair of the Rat King—a tyrant amassing an army of rodents to invade the real world. A mysterious supervillain lurks in the shadows, and the fate of both worlds hangs in the balance. But just as the battle begins, Zicky wakes up... back in his bedroom, surrounded by his siblings who tease him for believing his adventures are more than a dream.

Zicky: Wrath of the Rat King bursts with monsters, mayhem, and heart — a vivid journey into a world of thematic depth where reality bends, and friendships are tested. Join Zicky on his first adventure where he will need all of his persistence, humor and ninja skills to survive.

PUBLISHER     /     GOODREADS

MY TIDBITS

Action remains key as this hero dashes from one problem into the next and flips between worlds to form a dizzying pace.

Zicky is a kid by day and a hero by night. When everyone else is sleeping, he teleports to other worlds to defeat those with evil plans. Right now, he's dealing with the Rat King, who is planning on taking over the real world as soon as he gets a chance. Luckily, Zicky's child-self transformers into a powerful fighter whenever he wears his magical ring. The ring is also the key to the transports. Unfortunately, the Rat King is determined to get its hands on this ring, and Zicky might just make the mistake which allows this to happen.

This read takes on the isekai manga style, especially when it comes to the action and other world scenes. The battles are intense, the graphics full of power, and the characters pack personality. So, action and fantasy fans are sure to enjoy it from the very first page...because this one slams with the action right away. But Zicky isn't just an action hero; he's a kid in the real world. And this juxtaposed duality adds an interesting twist. Zicky's magical ring it a pacifier, which he wears on a string around his neck. Add that he is by no means a baby, and it builds in an obviously problematic twist...which isn't addressed in this first novel too much, but definitely adds possibilities for bullying arcs and such later on in the series. Plus, Zicky has a very normal family, who cares for him, and carries the usual parent back-and-forth as well as sibling issues. Interestingly enough, Zicky doesn't try to hide his alter-ego life from his family, but they simply don't believe him and mark it off as dreams. So, there's an intriguing flip-flop in this book with so many possibilities still to come.

The illustrations pack color and personality. The illustrators let the other worlds shine not only in the details but in the entire, illustrative style. This makes it easy to decipher which realm is being displayed and keeps things from growing confusing. The text fits the middle grade audience nicely and is kept pointed and necessary. This allows for a nice balance between text and graphics to let the story flow smoothly. 

It's an exciting read with tons of surprises, some silly moments, and villains, who are dangerous but carry a goofy edge to keep everything from growing too heavy, dark, or harsh. It's a fun read for action fans who enjoy quirky moments mixed in with the tension and are ready to root for an original hero, who is doing his best to deal with a odd and difficult situation.

You can watch the trailer HERE!

Founded by SHAWN HAINSWORTH, SHP Comics launched in 2021 as an independent publisher aiming to deliver daring, intelligent, genre-bending comics and graphic novels. Hainsworth began his creative life as an award-winning experimental filmmaker before telling stories on the page under the pseudonym Darin S. Cape. The publisher, author and producer lives in Western Massachusetts with his wife, two kids and a hound dog mix. Learn more at shpcomics.com, and follow SHP on Facebook: @shpcomics and Instagram: @shpcomics.

Happy Book Birthday, The Invisible Stone by Carola Schmidt!

THE INVISIBLE STONE

A Letter to a Powerful Girl

by Carola Schmidt

Illustrated by Dian Ovieta

Picture Book

24 pages

ages 6 to 12

The Invisible Stone: A Letter to a Powerful Girl is a heartfelt, uplifting letter every girl needs when confidence wobbles. In clear, encouraging words, bestselling author Carola Schmidt speaks to the smart, brave go-getter who sometimes meets doubts, fear and hesitation—the “invisible stones” on the road to big dreams. With lovely illustrations by artist Dian Ovieta, this inspiring book reminds readers of their resilience and self-love, showing how to name those hidden obstacles, step over them and keep moving toward the future they deserve. A beautiful message about perseverance and growth mindset, perfect for encouraging girls to trust their path, celebrate small wins and turn every stumble into strength.

Perfect for:

• Girls who need positive affirmations and confidence boosts
• Parents, teachers and counselors seeking a short, powerful read-aloud with gorgeous art
• Classroom lessons on self-esteem, perseverance and mindfulness
• Back-to-school, graduation and birthday gifts
• Ages 6–10 with a message that resonates for older readers too

What readers will find:

• Encouraging, straight-to-the-heart language that builds self-belief
• Practical encouragement for facing self-doubt and perfectionism
• A motivational go-to book to revisit before tests, tryouts, presentations and new challenges
• Warm, expressive illustrations that make every page feel like a hug

GOODREADS    /    AMAZON

MY TIDBITS

Inspiration, support, and vibes of a cheering squad make this a book to lift up anyone who is facing a few unexpected challenges (big or small).

This book is all about building confidence and letting readers know that nothing is easy to achieve. There will be problems to overcome. To take this a step further, the author also refers to the deeper obstacles such as hesitation, fear, and the like. These are deemed invisible stones, since they are there...and monstrous...but not always immediately noticed. With uplifting word choices, these pages offer encouragement. Even invisible stones can be overcome, and everything should be seen as a path, which is taken step by step. It's a message which works well for a variety of situations and individuals, since it's a broad theme and doesn't turn specific. While it is thought for girls, the message is wide and works for all readers.

The text is kept short and carries an almost poetic atmosphere. There are a few tougher vocabulary words, which might need to be explained depending on the age of the reader. But this is great for those word building skills and also makes it slide into this mid-range of 6 to 9...I say 9, since the book, in general, gives off younger vibes thanks to the illustrations. However, this book takes a bit of an indirect approach to the theme, and this makes it a nice fit to children even up to 10. 

It's a positive read with cheerful illustrations and tons of motivational goodness.

Puzzle Sleuth Undercover by Paul Westmoreland

It's time for a mystery...or in this case, mysteries. And puzzles. Lots of them, I hope. Today's read is the second book in a series, which packs a few, separate cases with puzzles to form engaging mysteries. I'm not sure if the puzzles are in the cases and part of them, or if the puzzles are on the side of the cases...as extras (?). But we'll find out. I am swallowing at the 400 pages length, but considering this one is for tweens and not middle grade, that shouldn't be a huge issue, right?

Let's put on our sleuthing caps, settle down, and see if we can figure out some mysteries, shall we?

PUZZLE SLEUTH UNDERCOVER

More Mind-Bending Murder Puzzle Mysteries

by Paul Westmoreland

Ten Speed Young Readers

Middle Grade Mystery

400 pages

ages 10 to 14

Choose your path, solve the puzzles, and catch the killer in this second collection of three ingenious fictional murder mysteries that challenge young readers with logic problems, visual games, and dangerous decisions at every turn.

Arlo Banks rose to fame as an amazing puzzle solver. His adventures across the world led him to crack cases that out-foxed the smartest experts and boldest criminal masterminds. Now enrolled in British Secret Intelligence Service's training program, Arlo faces his deadliest challenges yet in thrilling new adventures that have him unraveling the mystery behind a Hollywood star's sudden death, investigating the disappearance of an ambassador, and exposing the secrets of a lethal international organization.

As Arlo Banks, you choose what path to take and what puzzles to answer to solve each mystery. From breaking codes to escaping traps, navigating mazes to sifting through evidence, Puzzle Sleuth Undercover is an addictive brain-teasing mix of story, game, and adventure. Just remember to choose wisely. Your next move could catch the killer—or be your last!

GOODREADS     /      AMAZON    /     PUBLISHER

MY TIDBITS

Set in the same format as a Choose Your Own Adventure book, these mysteries draw in not only with tension but add some puzzling fun along the way.

Arlo Banks is a super-ace when it comes to solving puzzles...so much so that he now works for the British Secret Intelligence Service. He's young. Very young, but can solve cases like no other. In these pages, there are three case, which the head of the Intelligence Service needs his help on. One is a Hollywood murder, the next is a murder in Madrid, and the last finds Arlo looking into an international case on the ski slopes...if he gets that far. After a beginning chapter and the first look at each case, the reader needs to either make a choice or solve a puzzle to see how the mystery and adventure will continue. The decisions the reader makes lead to a different chapter with new possibilities and clues or to their death. If all clues are successfully followed and all decisions carefully made, the murder is exposed, and Arlo gains even more recognition than before.

The idea of setting up murder mysteries in a choose-your-own-adventure style makes them engaging and fun. While the reader gets a little bit of basic information and a newspaper article to set things off, it's impossible to predict what will happen from there. Some of the choices are clear and easy, while others take a bit of luck. The ones with puzzles, which is quite often, involve a bit of thought. These can include mazes, number games, logic puzzles, and more. The variety is large to guarantee that it never grows boring. The puzzles aren't very difficult, however, which has me sliding the age range down a bit to 12 (I'd say more like 10) and below. I'm afraid this upper age range (up to 14) will find most of them too simple. There is a bit of tension thanks to the dangerous situations (these are murder with dangerous stakes), but nothing is graphic or too tense, either. Still, more sensitive readers might find Arlo's death, when making wrong decisions, difficult. 

There are solutions to the puzzles at the end of the book to help out when necessary. Otherwise, the stories run along smoothly and the outcomes are hard to predict. The chances of making 'wrong' decisions, every now and then, is high, which keeps the stakes interesting. The scenes and mysteries are nicely laid out. There's enough details to bring the moments across clearly without overloading. The scenes are kept relatively short and give only what is needed to keep the tension high and lay out the clues. This makes it a quick read, which even works well for more impatient or reluctant readers. 

While the total length of this book seemed heavy, at first, the tales are broken up into very short chapters and usually hold large, simple illustrations thanks to the puzzles. So, it reads much faster that a book of this size often would. It's an enjoyable and grabbing read for mystery and puzzle fans, and worth taking a peek at.

And here he is...

Paul Westmoreland has been a professional writer for over twenty-five years, creating award-winning advertising for TV, film, radio, and digital campaigns. He is now a full-time author, and as well as coming up with brain-teasing puzzle and mystery books, he is the writer behind the werewolf middle-grade series Rudy. He lives in the UK.