GOOD
W
BY SUE LUCEY
hile the COVID-19 pandemic is something none of us ever wants to live through again, one silver lining from it is that the book world is booming, as many authors were able to take advantage of the extra time at home and write, write, write. This summer, whether you are looking for a fast-paced thriller, folklore and fantasy, or a deep dive into a good history novel, there is surely something for everyone stocking the shelves of your favorite bookstore. Here are a few suggestions ...
CHILDREN’S PICTURE BOOKS A Life Electric: The Story of Nikola Tesla by Azadeh Westergaard I love when young readers are inspired by stories of ordinary kids who may have been considered “eccentric” and grew up to be extraordinary. This story of Nikola Tesla, who was born during a lightning storm at the stroke of midnight, is described by Booklist as “an elegant and enlightening look at a man who brightened the whole world.” But before he grew up to become one of the most important electrical inventors in the world, Tesla was simply a child who loved playing with animals on this family’s farm in Serbia. A Life Electric is a fascinating and beautiful glimpse into the legacy of the brilliant inventor.
READS
YOUNG READERS
Spy School At Sea by Stuart Gibbs (Available August) Set sail for adventure in the ninth installment of the Spy School series, where we find Ben aboard a luxury cruise posing with friends as his family, trying once again to beat his nemesis Murry. But according to the author’s website (stuartgibbs.com), “At first, it sounds exciting to have a mission on the most glamorous ocean liner on earth, but as usual, nothing goes according to plan. There is action, danger, and plenty of surprises as Ben and his team quickly find themselves in hot water.” Full of humor, this fastpaced adventure makes Gibbs’ latest work, and the entire series, a great read for any kid.
The Leaf Thief by Alice Hemming (Available August) Where did the leaf go? Who stole it? Squirrel loves counting the leaves on this tree – but discovers one of them is missing! He and his good buddy Bird are on the case to find out who among their forest friends could be the leaf thief. Silly and fun, The Leaf Thief makes sense of the seasons and teaches about adapting to change. Hold That Thought by Bree Galbraith (Available August) Finn awakes to a cool idea spinning around in his head. With help from his friends, he builds on that idea until a school bully tries to stop him. Finn imagines his idea working, and with renewed confidence, follows through with it. Hold That Thought encourages self-esteem, inclusion, perseverance, collaboration, and creativity. 36
CIRCA Magazine
| July • August • September 2021
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circamagazine.com
