This Librarian's Quick Picks: Crenshaw

Crenshaw
by Katherine Applegate
Feiwel & Friends (Sep. 22, 2015)
Fantasy Chapter Book

Summary:

Jackson can’t believe his eyes when his imaginary friend—a huge, talking, skateboarding cat—returns. Meanwhile, his family’s financial troubles are all too real to ignore.

Why You'll Love It:

•  Though the story is weighty, it is a quick read that encourages people of all ages to be honest with one another and value family and friends (real and imaginary!).
• The tone is warm and, occasionally, quirkily funny, but it doesn’t sugarcoat the effects of hunger and vulnerability.
• While sardonic Crenshaw may not be the warm and cuddly imaginary friend readers are expecting, he's the companion that Jackson truly needs as he begins to realize that he doesn't need to carry the weight of the world upon his shoulders. 

Who Should Read It:

 Great for grades 4-6...and here's the book trailer.

What Else You Should Read:

• Winterfrost by Michelle Houts
• The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate
• Pie by Sarah Weeks

This Librarian's Quick Picks: Dory and the Real True Friend

Dory and the Real True Friend
by Abby Hanlon
Dial Books (July 7, 2015)
Early Chapter Book

Summary:

Dory, a highly imaginative youngest child, makes a new friend at school but her brother and sister are sure Rosabelle is imaginary, just like all of Dory's other friends. 

Why You'll Love It:

• Dory’s lively first-person narrative is illustrated with similarly expressive line drawings, which take up about as much space as the text in this appealing early chapter book.
• The humor and familiar school setting will invite new fans. Old friends and new will hope this highly successful sequel will not be the last starring this inventive, original child.
• Fans of Annie Barrows's "Ivy and Bean", Barbara Park's "Junie B. Jones", and books with a little bit of humor and fantasy mixed into a school setting will enjoy reading this second installment in the "Dory" series.  

Who Should Read It:

Great for grades 2-4.

What Else You Should Read:

• Princess in Black by Shannon Hale
• Violet Mackerel series by Anna Branford
• Ivy and Bean books by Annie Barrows