Buzzkill

​By Beth Fantaskey

HMH, $8.99 PA

Realistic fiction, mystery, romance, grief, journalism, Ages 12+


Millie has multiple reasons to find out who murdered the head football coach. Besides the main suspect being her father, Millie wants the lead story for the school paper. Though she works her Sherlock skills with less finesse than her heroine, Nancy Drew, Millie’s spunky character makes this story unforgettable, as she handles the most awkward moment in school-dance history, a QB-and-suspect who wants to help investigate, and the grief of losing her mother to cancer.

dirty Gert

 

By Todd Arnold

Holiday House, $16.95

Picture book, Ages Pre-K to 6


Ever since she was a little “squirt,” Gert loved to play in dirt, including eating it! One day while snacking on mud in the rain, Gert grows roots! When Hollywood goes haywire over Gert’s earthy transformation, her parents come to her aid. Rollicking rhyme and running commentary made by earthworms add to the humor.

National Geographic Kids Guide to Photography

06.22.15     posted by:  Kim     comments:  

By National Geographic Photographer Annie Griffiths and Nancy Honovic

National Geographic Books

Release date: Agust 4, 2015, Ages 8-12


This photography guide is an excellent introduction to photography for young photographers ages 5-100. With vivid photographs that kids will love and will spark ideas. It's actually quite comprehensive and reader friendly, and covers every facet of photography and equipment, plus how to use smartphone cameras and point-and-shoot. Perfect for children who show an interest in photography, hobbyists who want to learn more, and even professionals, for fun ideas of photographing with kids. 

Oddball Michigan: a guide to 450 really strange places 

By Jerome Pohlen

Chicago Review Press, $16.95

Adult interest, nonfiction, travel, all about the Mitten state, Ages 10+


I love Michigan, though I'm biased because I live here. For anyone who loves the state or just wants to visit, this book is the off-the-beaten-path guide to all things Michigan, including maps and apps, wacky facts, festivals, legends, and so much more than just a tour guide for Michigan's pristine shorelines. 

Copper Magic

​By Julia Mary Gibson

Starscape, $17.99

Middle grade, historical fiction with magical realism, photography, family life, lies and consequences, Ages 10-14


The year is 1906, and life is bleak for 12-year-old Violet, with her mother and baby brother missing and her father losing their family farm. Circumstances improve after Violet unearths a magical talisman, a copper hand that grant wishes. But is it magic or coincidence? Either way, Violet must take responsibility for her choices, in this beautifully written story with a wonderful twist.