Peak Picks & Reviews

Collectively we turned a beautiful life into the myth of a monster. We turned a family home into a ghost house. And from now on we must do better. Introduction  Holly Jackson’s debut novel, A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder, has taken the world of young adult fiction by storm. Combining the gripping elements of a murder mystery with the fresh perspective of a teenage protagonist, the novel offers a complex and engaging story that keeps readers hooked from beginning to end. Jackson crafts a narrative that is as much about uncovering the truth as it is about exploring the deeper themes of justice, prejudice, and the consequences of truth-seeking. This review looks into the novel’s intricate plot, its thematic depth, and the effectiveness of Jackson’s storytelling in making A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder a standout in its genre. Synopsis  A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder centers around Pippa Fitz-Amobi, a high school senior who decides to investigate a five-year-old murder case for her f...

It seems way too simple. To say sorry when you’re sorry. To say you’re hurt when you’re hurt. To say something’s not right when it’s not right. But it’s one of the hardest things in the world. Introduction  Troublemaker by John Cho is a compelling and timely middle-grade novel that dives into the life of Jordan Park, a 12-year-old Korean American boy living in Los Angeles during the 1992 Rodney King riots . The book not only sheds light on a pivotal moment in American history but also addresses issues of identity, family dynamics, and the immigrant experience. John Cho, an accomplished actor and now author, brings to the forefront the complexities of adolescence through the lens of a young boy grappling with his cultural identity amidst societal upheaval. This novel serves as an important reminder of the racial tensions that have long plagued America, while also offering a deeply personal narrative that resonates with readers of all ages. Synopsis  The story of Troublemaker un...

This is how I feel every single day of my life, like I'm falling without a parachute. Introduction  New Kid, written by Jerry Craft, is a groundbreaking graphic novel that resonates deeply with its audience, particularly young readers navigating the often turbulent waters of adolescence. Released in 2019, New Kid stands out not only for its engaging narrative and vibrant illustrations but also for the critical social themes it explores. The novel has earned widespread acclaim, including the prestigious Newbery Medal, making Craft the first African American author to receive this honor for a graphic novel. New Kid tells the story of Jordan Banks, a 12-year-old African American boy who is trying to find his place in a predominantly white private school. Through Jordan’s eyes, Craft addresses issues of race, identity, and belonging, making the novel a significant contribution to contemporary children's literature. Synopsis  New Kid follows the journey of Jordan Banks, a talented ...

I don’t know what is going to happen next year, no one does. But that’s OK. I can handle it, I decide. It’s just a harder gear, and I am ready. All I have to do is take a deep breath and ride. Introduction  "Merci Suárez Changes Gears" by Meg Medina is a poignant and beautifully written middle-grade novel that captures the essence of growing up, family dynamics, and the challenges of adolescence. The book, which won the prestigious Newbery Medal in 2019, tells the story of Merci Suárez, a sixth-grader navigating the complexities of school life, family expectations, and the emotional turmoil that comes with growing up. Set against the vibrant backdrop of South Florida, the novel dives into universal themes of change, identity, and resilience, making it a compelling read for both young readers and adults.  Medina’s storytelling is grounded in a rich cultural context, reflecting the lives of a close-knit Cuban-American family. Through Merci’s eyes, we experience the joys and str...

If you didn’t have bad things, you wouldn’t have good things. They would all just be things. Did you ever think about that? Introduction  Erin Entrada Kelly's Hello, Universe is a middle-grade novel that weaves together the lives of four distinct yet interconnected characters in a story about friendship, bravery, and self-discovery. Winner of the 2018 Newbery Medal, this novel stands out for its diverse cast, rich themes, and the way it handles complex issues with a touch of humor and a deep understanding of the emotional lives of children. Set in a small, unnamed town, the novel is an exploration of how fate, courage, and friendship can intersect in unexpected ways. Kelly’s narrative voice, filled with warmth and empathy, speaks to both young readers and adults, making Hello, Universe a story that resonates across age groups. Synopsis  Hello, Universe is centered around four middle school children: Virgil Salinas, Valencia Somerset, Kaori Tanaka, and Chet Bullens. Each of the...

Knowledge is powerful, but it is a terrible power when it is hoarded and hidden. Introduction  In the realm of contemporary children's literature, where stories often oscillate between light-hearted fantasy and moral allegory, Kelly Barnhill's The Girl Who Drank the Moon stands as a luminous example of both. Published in 2016, this Newbery Medal-winning novel captures the hearts of readers through its intricate world-building, rich character development, and an emotionally resonant narrative that transcends age categories. Barnhill has crafted a fairy tale that is not only enchanting but also profound, weaving together themes of love, loss, power, and the often misunderstood nature of magic. This review looks into the novel’s plot, thematic depth, and its overall impact, offering a comprehensive analysis of why The Girl Who Drank the Moon deserves its place in the annals of great children's literature. Synopsis  The Girl Who Drank the Moon is set in a world divided by fear ...

Sometimes when you’re surrounded by dirt, CJ, you’re a better witness for what’s beautiful. Introduction  Last Stop on Market Street is a children's picture book that has captivated readers of all ages with its vibrant illustrations and poignant narrative. Written by Matt de la Peña and illustrated by Christian Robinson, the book has won numerous awards, including the prestigious Newbery Medal, the Caldecott Honor, and the Coretta Scott King Illustrator Honor. The story, simple yet profound, follows a young boy named CJ and his grandmother as they travel by bus through an urban landscape, culminating in a heartwarming visit to a soup kitchen. Through its vivid storytelling and stunning artwork, Last Stop on Market Street addresses complex themes of gratitude, social awareness, and the beauty in everyday life. This review will look into the book's narrative structure, thematic depth, and overall impact, providing a comprehensive analysis of why Last Stop on Market Street has bec...

A loss is inevitable, / like snow in winter. // True champions / learn / to dance / through / the storm. Introduction  "The Crossover" by Kwame Alexander is a masterful blend of poetry and prose, capturing the hearts of young adult readers and beyond. Published in 2014, this novel-in-verse has been celebrated for its innovative format and deeply resonant themes, winning the prestigious Newbery Medal and Coretta Scott King Honor. "The Crossover" tells the story of two basketball-loving brothers, Josh and Jordan Bell, as they navigate the challenges of adolescence, family dynamics, and their dreams on the court. With its rhythmic verse, vibrant imagery, and emotionally charged narrative, the book transcends the boundaries of traditional storytelling, offering readers an unforgettable experience that is both universally relatable and profoundly moving. Synopsis  "The Crossover" centers around Josh Bell, a 12-year-old basketball prodigy, and his twin brother, ...

However different they are, all superheroes come to us with a purpose, to save those in need. - from the movie 'Flora and Ulysses' (2021) Introduction  "Flora and Ulysses: The Illuminated Adventures," written by Kate DiCamillo, is a remarkable blend of whimsical storytelling, profound themes, and captivating illustrations that target middle-grade readers yet speaks to audiences of all ages. This 2013 Newbery Medal-winning novel is a heartwarming exploration of life's complexities, wrapped in a story of a cynical young girl, Flora, and an unlikely superhero—a squirrel named Ulysses. The book, enriched with the illustrative art of K.G. Campbell, stands out not only for its humor and creativity but also for its ability to weave significant life lessons into an accessible narrative. DiCamillo's writing, marked by its blend of light-hearted fun and deep emotional resonance, ensures that "Flora and Ulysses" is more than just a children's book—it's ...

I have been in my domain for nine thousand eight hundred and fifty-five days. Alone. For a while, when I was young and foolish, I thought I was the last gorilla on earth. Introduction  Katherine Applegate’s The One and Only Ivan is a poignant, beautifully written middle-grade novel that deftly explores themes of friendship, freedom, and the human-animal bond. Published in 2012, the book has garnered widespread acclaim, including winning the prestigious Newbery Medal. The story is inspired by the real-life experiences of a captive gorilla named Ivan, who spent 27 years in a shopping mall cage before being relocated to a zoo. Applegate’s novel, however, transcends its factual origins to deliver a tale that is both heartbreaking and hopeful. Through the voice of Ivan, a silverback gorilla who has lived for years in captivity, Applegate invites readers to reflect on the complexities of animal captivity and the powerful connections that can form between beings, no matter how different t...