Bright Red Fruit is a young adult coming-of-age novel that will hook you from the very beginning. The story is told through multiple poems, which is a unique format that may take some getting used to, but is ultimately well executed and interesting.
Category: Young Reviewers
Children’s Book Committee – September 2024 Pick
I liked that it was a graphic novel. It was about somebody who likes to draw and I like to draw too. It was special because it was told about a boy that some people were mean to, but through his drawings he was able to make friends and he got through it very well.
Children’s Book Committee – July 2024 Pick
I liked the inspiration in this book. I found the story to be somewhat relatable, and something that could happen in real life. Although it would be a rare occurrence, the author made you feel like it was truly happening to you.
Children’s Book Committee – June 2024 Pick
I like the scary squid. I want to cuddle the penguin babies. The seals are funny. The words are funny. Read again, again, Grandma.
Children’s Book Committee – May 2024 Pick
“At the End of the World” by Nadia Mikail beautifully explores the journey of coming to terms with one’s emotions. Aisha, the protagonist, struggles with her emotions after her father dies and her sister leaves home.
Children’s Book Committee – April 2024 Pick
To honor National Poetry Month, a Young Reviewer shares their thoughts about Kin: Rooted in Hope by Carole Boston Weatherford, illustrated by Jeffrey Boston Weatherford.
Children’s Book Committee – March 2024 Pick
The Lost Year is a historical fiction coming-of-age story told through three entwining timelines. It is at the top of my “best books of 2023” list. The story occurs in the early 2020 COVID-19 pandemic in the United States and the 1930s Holodomor in Soviet-occupied Ukraine.
Children’s Book Committee – February 2024 Pick
Young Reviewers: Mason 7, Napali 8, Nora 7, and Penny 7, from New York City (and their wonderful teacher) give their thoughts on Tadgh Bentley’s book “One Chicken Nugget.”
Children’s Book Committee – January 2024 Pick
Judit Polgár does a great job of showing kids how anything is possible. What happened was that a girl was taught how to play chess and she went to tournaments with very underrated odds and crushed adults with her skills.
Children’s Book Committee – December 2023 Pick
The element that makes this book so captivating is the lack of a complete story until the very end. As the book progresses, many seemingly random flashbacks come together to form one cohesive whole. Throughout the book, you might find yourself questioning what really is happening and wondering if there’s something more to the relatively simple story of a family grieving.
Children’s Book Committee – November 2023 Pick
I liked the part where Gus said so many rhyming words. I find it special because my grandma gave it to me. I could tell that Mavis Mole was frustrated that Gus wouldn’t listen. The rhymes are fun.
Children’s Book Committee – October 2023 Pick
The story’s plot is expertly crafted, skillfully weaving together individual experiences and intricate connections that support the overall narrative. The book engaged me as a reader, as I was drawn to the small details (like a red hair bow), that tied it all together.
Children’s Book Committee – September 2023 Pick
The characters in the book were very well written, I felt myself being mad/sad/happy for or at them, which is the marking of a clever book. The main character, Simon, went from a lonely, traumatized boy, to a happy, sociable, traumatized boy.
Children’s Book Committee – August 2023 Pick
I really liked the plot. I found it very interesting and heart-warming. I loved how it shows the main character throughout a year as she discovers her sexuality and finds a family.
Children’s Book Committee – July 2023 Pick
This book inspires young people to stand brave in the face of fear and injustice by highlighting a touching example of a mother who had to do the same. It shows young readers the racism and prejudice of the time while encouraging them to keep making change in the present. It is both educational and encouraging, while not shying away from darker themes.