What's Coming in September?

September is here! But where-oh-where are my cooler temperatures. The weather man has predicted upper 90's and, maybe, even 100 this week! And here I was ready to pull out those sweaters and smile toward Pumpkin Spice Lattes...hot not iced. My poor cows are going to be looking for grass, since that is dying quickly, right now. We had quite the hay harvest, so that's not really an issue, but still. Hay isn't suppose to be fed until mid-October or even beginning November. Every year is different, though. 

That means I'm going to continue to snuggle up with my books in the air conditioned house and, maybe, sit out on the patio when the cooler evening temps come in. I've been glancing at my pile and see another month of all sorts of things. Mystery, contemporary, nonfiction, graphic novels, paranormal, humor, fantasy...each book seems to be different for the next. It appears I'm heavier on the picture book end this month, and several of the young adult reads are going to be in graphic novel form. Oh, and there's even romance in the future. I'm ready to take it in stride and see what each book brings. 

Here's a peek at my schedule at the moment...I say that because it seems to constantly change.

DOMINIC BEAN AND THE MAMMOTH MELT

With Autumn, finally, growing closer...gosh, I'm sick of hot temperatures...this seemed like a wonderful book to snuggle up with. It should hold mystery, adventure, and maybe a touch of fantasy? I'm hoping to meet enjoyable characters and tons of surprises in these pages. It's also part of a series, which means that if it's a good read, there are more adventures to discover, too. I'll be hitting this one right away on the 1st!

Middle Grade Mystery

HERE COMES THE BAND

I stumbled across a few Youtube videos of featuring amazing marching bands these last months. Not often but the ones I've seen have left me speechless. So neat! When I saw this book, I had to pick it up and take a peek. And if you haven't visited the world of marching bands before, I highly suggest you take a peek because the talent is impressive. I'll march to this one on the 4th.

Picture Book

THE SECRET TO BELONGING

I've had this one on my 'back' pile for quite some time. That's the pile of books which I receive very early and need to wait until we slide closer to their release days. Honestly, this is one of my favorite piles because I could give publishers, authors, and publicists who think early a huge hug. They make my schedule smile! Anyway, this is a book in verse and I'm hoping for tons of depth and heart. Join me on the 7th to sink into this one.

Young Adult Contemporary

ELLEN POE FOR EVERMORE

I reviewed the first book in this series just a few months ago and really enjoyed it. So of course, I was excited to get my hands on the 2nd one, too! I'm very excited to jump into this mystery and see what this lovely character is up to next. I'm hoping for the same grabbing atmosphere and secrets as the last book. I'll be exposing everything I learn about this one on the 11th.

Young Adult Mystery

MAGICAL SWEET GULA

This one hit the shelves already in 2023, so I'm a little late to the party. Especially since book two came out earlier this summer, but better late than never, right? I love the overly pink cover and that chaotic, awkward atmosphere this character gives off. I'm expecting magic, mayhem, humor, adventure, and...well, isn't that enough? If you've already read this one, feel free to let me know and join me on the 14th to share your thoughts as well.

Middle Grade Fantasy  /   Graphic Novel

SHAILA HOLMES, FAIRY DETECTIVE

I guess I'm really into mysteries this month, but this one mashes different directions so nicely on the cover that I couldn't help but pick it up. I adore the Sherlock Holmes approach...and then, the mix with fairies? It could be so cute! This is also a read for the more for those readers, who aren't quite ready for full-fledge middle grade novels yet. I'm ready to see what this little fairy is up to on the 17th.

Children's Mystery

DOOM & GLOOM

I'm getting all sorts of spooky vibes from this read...and hints of humor, too. This is part of a graphic novel series for the 'before middle grade' group and promises to be tons of fun. I'm expecting this pair of cats to be up to all sorts of shenanigans and trouble. Or maybe, they are much better than they first appear. Join me on the 21st to discover more about it.

Children's Fantasy / Graphic Novel

 

THE INCREDIBLE OTHER SIDE

When I saw this cover, the first thing I wondered was what they would find on the other side of that wall. Then, I noticed the wintery scene versus green trees...and a Pterodactylus? So, fantasy? Plus, the illustrative style looks fun, too. I'm ready to see what this pair is up to and what wonders await for them if they manage to make it over that wall. Maybe, there's deeper meaning to all of this? We'll find out on the 24th.

Picture Book

MO FARAH, THE BOY WHO RAN TO BE FREE

I need to make sure I get, at least, a nonfiction read into my hands because I do adore that direction as well. This one also hits the ever-so-popular sports arena, too. I've never heard of Mo Farah (I'm not hugely into sports), but I'm ready to learn all about him. I'm hoping for inspiration and knowledge goodness in these pages and will discover what is inside on the 26th.

Middle Grade Sports Biography

THIRST

Honestly, I'm not even sure what this one is about. I only know that it is horror and...well...it looks spooky, doesn't it? Why did I pick it up? Because of the cover, of course! I've mentioned quite often that I'm drawn to covers. So, this one is giving me very dark vibes with psychological undertones. I'm thinking that the thirst goes beyond water and, maybe, into life itself? The bones at the bottom carry some very heavy suggestions. I'll know so much more about this one on the 29th and hope it leads right into the spookier season of October.

Young Adult Horror

Every month, my reading pile includes more reads than I could ever get to. Plus, there are always one or two that I'm very eager to get my fingers wrapped around. Luckily...if that's the right term...my schedule shifts around each month, opening up a few days as books aren't what I'd hoped they'd be, release days change, or something else unexpected happens. That's when I have a chance to slide in a read from the top of my pile.

This month's top book is...

GOURMET HOUND

I have no doubt that it's the food on the cover that caught my attention. And the 'gourmet' in the title. I love to read about food...and eat it. Anyway, this one probably involves some romance, too, and it is supposed to be for young adults...although I, personally, am getting older audience vibes from the cover. I'm curious to see what this book is about and what these characters are up to. Maybe cooking contests? Restaurant drama? The possibilities are wide open!

Young Adult Romance  /  Graphic Novel

Little Ghost and the Robot by David Litchfield

I know...I know. It's not time for spooks and Halloween goodness, yet. But for my defense, I don't think today's read is truly a Halloween read. At least, it's not giving me those vibes. I'm willing to bet that this is an 'all year around' read with friendship at the center of everything. And maybe, going beyond one's own borders? At least, the spooky house on one side and modern city on the other are hints of that. I like the cover quite a bit...all of those colors! And the twinkle stars! And the smiling robot! As you can tell, I wasn't about to let this one pass on by.

So, grab that sunscreen (we're still in for very hot temperatures here) and a glass of iced...well, whatever...and let's dive in!

LITTLE GHOST AND THE ROBOT

by David Litchfield

Frances Lincoln Children's Books

Picture Book

40 pages

ages 4 to 7

COMING OCTOBER 6th!!!

Meet Little Ghost and Robot in this spellbinding tale about chosen family and what it means to belong, from the creator of the prize-winning Bear and the Piano series.

Little Ghost and Robot make unlikely friends: one is emotional, the other logical. But they have something important in common—they know what it’s like to be different.

As they journey through the bustling city together, they encounter moments of quiet courage that help each of them see the world in new and surprising ways. These discoveries reveal to Little Ghost and Robot not only the wonder that exists beyond the walls of their old lives, but also the strength that comes from standing side by side.

Over the course of a sweeping adventure, the pair realize that, while the world may see them as outsiders, they can find belonging in each other—a sense of connection that makes each one finally feel as though they have found their forever home.

Written and illustrated by bestselling creator and exceptional talent, David Litchfield, this moving picture book offers readers a heartfelt celebration of friendship, courage, and found family.

GOODREADS    /     PUBLISHER

MY TIDBITS

Loneliness slides into golden friendship and so much more in a touching adventure.

Little Ghost enjoys living in her old house off on its own. The only thing which bothers her a little bit is that she doesn't have a friend to visit with. When a big box is dropped off at the house, she's more than curious and discovers a robot inside. The robot immediately agrees to learn how to play games with her, and the two have a great time. But then, they realize that the box was delivered to the wrong address. Afraid that the robot might miss out on meeting his true family, the Little Ghost very hesitantly agrees to accompany him on a trip to find them. But they discover something surprising along the way.

This is one of those books, which lets fantasy fly and invites in like a warm hug. The Little Ghost is a kind, timid, and pleasant character, which would make the perfect friend, and Robot might carry a little more perk but he's just as cheerful, open, and sweet. The blooming friendship will have listeners wishing they could meet and join both of them, too. The adventure holds surprises but stays gentle and adds another very kind character to the mix. There's a tiny bit of tension as the Robot discovers the true address he was intended for, and this creates a well-rounded tale. The end leaves a smile on the face and will, most likely, invite the word 'again'.

The illustrations are detailed, created with care, and bring each scene across nicely. Listeners will enjoy visiting these on their own even if they can't read the words. Those readers, who are practicing their words, will find assistance thanks to the lovely scenes. The story itself flows smoothly and creates a nice read-aloud for group or individual settings. It even works nicely as a bedtime read thanks to the soothing atmosphere. The messages surrounding friendship, meeting new people, and stepping beyond your own comfort zone come across while being neatly woven into the plot. It's an enjoyable read from the first page to the last.

And here he is...

DAVID LITCHFIELD is an award-winning and bestselling author-illustrator. He wrote and illustrated The Bear and the Piano, the first in a series which has sold over 800,000 copies around the world, been published in 37 languages, and won numerous awards—including Bank Street Children’s Book of the Year and Kirkus Best Book of the Year—as well as receiving starred reviews from Kirkus and Publishers Weekly. David has also illustrated stories by much-loved authors, including Kate DiCamillo, books for Stacy McAnulty’s major bestselling Our Universe series, and Smriti Halls’ Rain Before Rainbows, which was the recipient of the Foreword INDIES Book of the Year Award. Follow him on Instagram under the handle @david_c_litchfield

The Band From Another World by Kevin Garone

Ready for some crazy science fiction? I'm pretty sure today's read is going to shoot out of this world in many ways, especially since I reviewed the second book in this trilogy about this same time last year (see the post HERE). That book definitely danced to its own tune while offering tons of excitement. And this book sounds a little less quirky...and even more fun. 

So, let's sit back and see what these notes play!

THE BAND FROM ANOTHER WORLD

An Alien Survival Guide Novel #3

by Kevin Garone

Temor Press

Middle Grade Science Fiction

182 pages

ages 8 to 12

COMING SEPTEMBER 8th!!!

When Marv traces a mysterious transmission to an abandoned house, he’s ready to finally uncover proof of an otherworldly invasion. But when he and his friends sneak inside, they don’t find aliens.

Instead, they find a dusty basement full of musical instruments.

To Marv’s friends, this means one thing: instant rock band. But Marv was right to be suspicious. Strange shadows reach from the walls. Faces flicker in the dark. Worst of all, his friends start acting off. Like they’re not entirely themselves anymore.

And it’s happening to Marv, too.

Suddenly, he can play guitar like a total legend—no practice, no lessons, no explanation. But every note pulls him in deeper. The thoughts in his head aren’t all his. And the music doesn’t want to stop.

Can Marv uncover the truth behind the transmission before he loses himself completely?

Because something else is listening to the broadcast. And it’s not here for the music.

GOODREADS

MY TIDBITS

This is an exciting mix of scifi, mystery, humor, and even some spooky nods to darker chills.

After the other adventures, Marv is definitely on the lookout for aliens, especially since he picked up a signal with a voice buzzing something about a homing device. As far as he can tell, it's coming from an abandoned house...the perfect hideout for aliens. While investigating the house with two friends, a fall through the floor reveals a basement with an entire collection of instruments for a band. There's also a noise from the sky, which can only mean one thing. Aliens. But there's nothing really there, so he can't be 100% sure. His friends, who aren't as alien-orientated as he, are excited to find the instruments, and the moment they pick them up, they can play like professional musicians. Marv is sure it's still alien related, especially since his amp keeps giving that same homing message, but the others strike it off as hobby CB signals gone wrong. When a new member joins the band, who is just as alien focused as he is, he's not sure what to think. Plus, something isn't right with the entire band thing. He even calls in a ghost-hunting team to see if they can help figure things out. But none of that ends well or brings him a step further, and he can hardly go against his friends. So, when a contest for bands arises, the entire group is ready to show their talent. And that is when everything goes completely out of control.

And yes, the blurb I just gave only warms up this adventure. So to say that  his is a very, fast-paced tale, is an understatement. It dives forward the entire way through without ever losing a beat and keeps readers on the edge of their seats, wondering what in the universe will happen next. This is science fiction, but it's also so much more, and I can easily see non-scifi gurus enjoying this one...as long as they love fast-paced, quirky adventure with a dose of paranormal directions and even creepy vibes. In other words, it's a bit of a genre bender. Marv is a very energetic kid with a huge imagination, which isn't really just imagination since he has been battling insane, alien situations in the first two books of this trilogy (and no, it's not necessary to read those before diving into this one since each can be seen as its own adventure). His thoughts can be a bit sporadic and his decisions unexpected, but this kid has experience. It adds a hectic fun, which reminded me a tad bit of The Goonies. The darker tones also fit, in a different way. But there is still tons of science fiction, too, and that pushes belief in quirky and enjoyable ways.

Readers who love the unexpected, nonstop action, a little heart, the possibility of rocking it as a band, and strange situations will want to give this one a go.

The Curse of the Silvan Oaks by Georgia Channon

It's been a bit since I picked up a true, middle grade fantasy...as in one that heads into another world with magical creatures and the like. Today's read takes two characters from very different worlds and places them in...if I understood this correctly...a possible war between worlds. This book released in paper format last year but is, now, coming out in ebook and audiobook formats. The reviews have been pretty good, so far, so I'm curious to see how exciting it truly is.

Settle back into those chairs because we're heading into adventure pure! (I hope)

THE CURSE OF THE SILVAN OAKS

by Georgia Channon

Pushkin Children's Books

Middle Grade Fantasy

223 pages

ages 8 to 12

COMING SEPTEMBER 1st in Ebook and Audio Versions!!!

All is not well in the kingdom of Silvanland. An ancient feud between Queen Titania and King Oberon has turned into a merciless war, and a deadly curse festers in the sacred woods.

When young Prince Cory is kidnapped by Oberon's ruthless soldiers, the Silvan forces think all hope is lost. But fate has other plans. In the mortal world, hidden away in an old oak tree, there lies a portal. And through this portal a girl called Oli will soon fall. Her arrival in the magical land will change everything...

Thrown together unexpectedly, Oli and Cory find the fate of the Silvan kingdom now rests on their shoulders. Together they must escape the clutches of the wicked Queen Hellebore and travel to the very ends of the magical kingdom on a dangerous quest. They will face ruthless monsters and old, wicked magic, and will find help in the strangest of places.

The Curse of the Silvan Oaks is the sensational debut novel from author Georgia Channon, inspired by Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream. It is a richly imagined, multiple perspective fantasy novel, set in the opulent fairytale world of Sacromund. With echoes of the great fantasy classics such as The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe, this feast of a novel is sure to delight any reader looking for a magical new read.

GOODREADS    /    AMAZON    /     PUBLISHER

MY TIDBITS

With the atmosphere of epic fantasy, this tale dives into danger and magic with two characters to root for.

Oli is as normal as normal can be, so when she falls through a portal in a tree to find herself in a magical land, it's the last thing she expected to have happen to her. Then, there's Prince Cory who has been kidnapped by enemy forces as his kingdom faces the wrath of an evil queen. Together, the two set out on a quest to save Prince Cory's kingdom. But with dangerous monsters, evil intentions, and magic involved this is going to be more than just a difficult task. 

If I had to compare this to a tale, I'd say it carries whispers of Narnia...but I say this with a broad reach. The world building in this book is rich. Very rich. The author adds details to bring the scenes and characters to visual life. This isn't done in a information drop, either, but rather filters in as necessary to create a smooth connection with the story flow. There are also quite a few characters and aspects involved. While Oli and Cory are the main characters and heroes of the tale, they are by no means alone. There's a huge wealth of personalities, creatures, and individuals, who play a role in the adventure and quest. From this side, the book leans toward the higher end of the intended age group and will delight fantasy fans with the imagination, intrigue, and world details. At the same time, other aspects run lighter. The magic and other rules aren't well laid out in comparison, and the vast amount of characters in less than 300 pages means that there is less development on that end. This side snuggles in nicely to the middle grade audience and leaves space for the adventure to unfold.

Oli and Cory draw in with their determination, forming friendship, and heart. Both are easy to root for as they try their best to overcome the impossible task. Readers get to know both as the chapters flip between their points of view. Other characters, however, aren't forgotten as the chapters switch to other perspectives as well. This helps the tale gain needed insight and stay compact, but also takes away from needed time with Oli and Cory, leaving them feeling a bit light, at times. The tale moves along quickly to keep readers in the pages and speeds toward the end. It will be interesting to see if a book two since there are enough open strings to latch onto, but this ending satisfies as well.

Fans of rich world building are sure to enjoy this one. 

So Many Questions by Belen Medina

Today's read caught my attention because it's a theme which sits close to home. It's simply a topic all families discuss, when an immigrant member is involved. I've always wondered what the test looks like because I've never really done the research to see, but I know there is one. So, this is going to be informative for me, too. 

Will young readers enjoy it? Well, that depends on how it's done. And that's why I'm curious to take a peek and see what's inside!

SO MANY QUESTIONS

Abuelita Becomes a US Citizen

by Belen Medina

Illustrated by Heidi Moreno

Quill Tree Books

Picture Book

32 pages

ages 4 to 8

Inspired by the author’s own abuelita, this tribute to becoming a US citizen follows a young girl who helps her grandmother prepare for America’s citizenship test.

Anita’s abuela is taking a very important test soon: the exam to become a US citizen! If Abuelita passes, she’ll finally be able to achieve her life-long dream. Anita and her abuela review the questions everywhere they go: at the tiendita, at the open mercado, all around the barrio. But will Abuelita pass the test?

This ode to immigrants, beautifully brought to life by illustrator Heidi Moreno, will fascinate and educate readers about what it takes to become a US citizen.

• Includes the full list of questions for the US citizenship test – with answers
• Inspired by the author’s grandmother’s path to citizenship

GOODREADS    /    AMAZON     /     PUBLISHER

MY TIDBITS

With grandparent-grandchild warmth, these pages present the tension and hard work needed to pass the US citizenship test.

Anita's abuela has lived in the US for a long time and is about to take her test to become a US citizen. There are so many questions she needs to know the answers to. Luckily, Abuelita has always been known to have a great memory. Still, she studies the questions and answers rigorously, taking them with her everywhere she goes.

The book begins with an illustration presenting the questions of the US citizenship test listed on pages of paper. So, listeners/readers know right away what Anita's abuela is learning. Abuelita is then introduced as she sits at a kitchen table, studying away. Each page presents her learning in various places as Anita accompanies her through daily activities and constantly quizzes her. The scenes are familiar and add a lovely backdrop as the questions hit, one after the other. It's never boring, lets the nervousness come to life, and lets readers gently connect with Anita and Abuelita. Both come across as kind and cheerful, making it easy to hope that Abuelita can pass the test.

The text allows the questions to seep in with a sense of fun and flows nicely for the age group. It creates a lovely read-aloud, which should even hold reluctant listeners' attentions. There's a sense of playfulness to keep everything from growing serious or boring, and a littl tension grows the entire way through. The questions at the beginning of the book add a bit of fun as listeners/readers can see how many answers they know themselves. The answers are listed at the end of the book which I appreciate, too.

It's a touching read, which raises respect for those immigrants who took the path to US citizenship, while bringing in family goodness as well.