Who Gives a Poop?: Surprising Science from One End to the Other

by Heather L. Montgomery Illustrated by Iris Gottlieb 3 stars A unique read packed with interesting information told in an engaging format. Each chapter shows how waste is used to better understand the world and solve problems. From protecting endangered species and producing energy to curing infections and revitalizing land, poop can do some amazing…

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Brands We Know: My Little Pony by Sara Green

3 stars A nice overview of the history of My Little Pony from the original My Pretty Pony to Friendship is Magic and Equestria Girls. The book is broken down into short sections. Information includes how My Little Pony got its start, the different generations up to 2018 (stops at Generation 4), and ways fans…

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My Little Pony Get Ready to Giggle! Joke Book

by Gina Gold 3 stars A cute joke book filled with My Little Pony characters. Most of the jokes are horse-themed (puns on reigns, herds, bridles, etc.) with a few that are My Little Pony specific. Each page includes black-and-white line art of various characters such as the Mane 6, the Cutie Mark Crusaders, and…

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Mermaid and Pirate by Tracey Baptiste

Illustrated by Leisl Adams 3 stars A sweet picture book that shows that you can be friends even if you don’t speak the same language. The mermaid and the pirate both love storms. But when the pirate’s ship starts sinking, the mermaid rushes in to help. It doesn’t work out how either of them expect….

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The Wishing Spell (The Land of Stories #1) (Audiobook)

by Chris Colfer 3 stars Twins Alex and Conner are having a hard time adjusting to life after the death of their father. When their grandmother gives Alex her book of fairy tales, the siblings are transported inside into the Land of Stories. Now the two must search for the items of the Wishing Spell…

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John’s Turn by Mac Barnett

Illustrated by Kate Berube 3 stars A visually pleasing story that perfectly encapsulates the beauty of doing something you love. Every Friday, one of the students gets to share a talent with the entire school. Today, it’s John’s turn. He’s nervous all day, but as he starts performing, magic happens. The illustrations are wonderful. It…

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Shuna’s Journey by Hayao Miyazaki

Translated by Alex Dudok de Wit 3 stars A standalone tale loosely based on the Tibetan folktale, “The Prince Who Turned into a Dog”. This book is all Miyazaki. Stunning settings, a strong woman with agency and determination, fascinating creatures, rich backgrounds, and intentional ambiguity. Slow-paced story that puts more emphasis on the visuals than…

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The Wooden Mile (Something Wickedly Weird #1)

by Chris Mould 3 stars A delightfully spooky tale of a mysterious house, wretched villains, and something lurking in the night. A nice creepy equivalent for fans of Roald Dahl. The story was quick and engaging. It was easy to get swept up in the mysterious setting and odd events. I really enjoyed the artwork. The…

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All Are Welcome: Welcome Back!

by Alexandra Penfold Illustrated by Suzanne Kaufman 3 stars A sweet early reader featuring the characters from All Are Welcome. This rhyming book welcomes students back to school and shared lessons on conduct. These include trying new things, practicing kindness, helping others, and working together. Lovely, diverse illustrations. This Step 2 book includes basic vocabulary, short…

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Mudlark: In Search of London’s Past Along the River Thames

by Lara Maiklem 3 stars A fascinating tour along the River Thames complete with stories from history, Maiklem’s personal life, and her adventures searching the foreshore. Follow Maiklem as she takes the reader all the way along the Thames, from the Tidal Head to the Estuary. Along the way, she recounts her discovery of long-lost…

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