Check out these new titles recommended by some of our young reviewers. We love hearing from the young readers in our community. If you would like to review new releases for us, please contact Niki at nmarion@thirdplacebooks.com for more information!
This unique, vivid book thrills at every twist! Sarah, a Jewish girl living during the Holocaust, goes undercover as a spy. Sarah has to use her acting and spying ingenuity to complete her mission at a detestable German boarding school. Bullies like the Ice Queen and Elsa are only one reason why Sarah is on thin ice in this novel.
Young reviewer Ava
Told entirely from a dog's point of view, this is a story that gives an unbiased look at nonverbal autism for a younger audience. While it doesn't go into extensive detail and includes some fantastical elements (the dog seems to be able to "talk" to a few people, it's still an excellent place to start for younger kids with an autistic sibling, and should definitely be included in every school library.
Young reviewer Grace
I really loved this book! The protagonist seemed a lot more "real" because of her reluctance to cause bloodshed and because she knows there may not be a happy ending to her story. I also really liked the magical items that influenced the plot. The crystals that give you power when you have them on your person? That's awesome. A good fantasy read with plenty of backstabbing, plot twists, and a main character who can hold her own but isn't always in the limelight.
Young reviewer Frannie
A lttle weightier than her first YA novel. Buxbaum continues to deal with grief, but also adds in other elements that raise this story to something more. With a wonderfully diverse cast of characters (Kit is half Indian and David is on the autism spectrum), this dual POV novel is not only full of heart but something really special.
Young reviewer Grace
Luka, a young Ukranian boy, smuggles his way out of his labor camp and rushes for the hills. Luka has one goal: get back to the Ukraine to find his father. On his way, he meets the Ukranian Insurgent Army and postpones his plans to become an assistant surgeon. The longer he stays, the more he learns and discovers. This breathtaking book is filled to the top with exciting and chilling tales you won't want to miss!
Young reviewer Ava
I just loved this book! All of the characters were so much fun to read about, and multiple times I had to remind myself, "No, you can't talk to Ambrose. He's fictional." I felt as though I could actually hear their personalities. I also thought that the plot was wonderfully creative. I would recommend The Smoke Thieves to anyone who likes a good fantasy book. It's a little dark but otherwise really, really fun!
Young reviewer Frannie