This Librarian's Quick Picks: Dinosaur Boy

Dinosaur Boy
by Cory Putman Oakes
Jabberwocky Books (Feb. 3, 2015)
Science Fiction chapter book

Summary:

Sprouting a tail and spikes over the summer before fifth grade, Sawyer, a boy with the dinosaur gene, is bullied in school, but when his tormentors begin to disappear, it is up to Sawyer, his best friend Elliot, and a mysterious new girl to rescue them from a galactically horrible fate.

Why You'll Love It:

•  A fast-paced narrative and mixture of science fiction and humor will appeal to reluctant readers.
• Themes of bullying and racial identity are woven into an entertaining story that never stops moving.
• If you loved Wonder and would like to read another book with similar ideas about acceptance, this is a great choice.

Who Should Read It:

Great for grades 3-6...and here's the teacher guide.

What Else You Should Read:

• Blast Off! by Nate Ball
• Pickle by Kim Baker
• Spaceheadz series by Jon Scieszka

This Librarian's Quick Picks: Dragonbreath -- Knight-napped!

Dragonbreath: Knight-napped!
by Ursula Vernon
Dial Books (January 6, 2015)
Fantasy chapter book

Summary:

Danny’s super-annoying cousin Spencer has been kidnapped by knights, every dragon’s worst enemy. After briefly enjoying the peace, Danny and friends go to his rescue.

Why You'll Love It:

• My kiddos at school are always excited about a new Dragonbreath addition. It's a no-brainer.
• Okay, still need convincing? Ursula Vernon’s witty passages will have readers chuckling. The description of Danny’s cousin is particularly funny: “If there had been a world championship for Most Annoying Cousin, Spencer would win every time. Then he’d whine until somebody carried the trophy for him.”
• Appealing comic-book-style illustrations appear throughout, enhancing the humor. For example, Wendell explains the composition of the moat that surrounds the castle by pointing to a visual aid labeled glop, ooze, and mafia informant.

Who Should Read It:

Great for grades 2-5.

What Else You Should Read:

• Fear the Amoeba (Squish series) by Jennifer Holm
• The Gumazing Gum Girl by Rhode Montijo
• The Flying Beaver Brothers series by Maxwell Eaton III