Reviews and recommendations are unbiased and products are independently selected. Postmedia may earn an affiliate commission from purchases made through links on this page.
Iggy Included
By Deborah Kerbel, Cover Illustration By Trevor Keen
(Scholastic Canada Ltd.)
For the Coopersmiths, winning a big, beautiful home in the country was a dream come true. However, they never imagined that it was going to take a lot of renovating, and that it also came with an extra tenant, Iggy the dog. At first, Paige wants nothing to do with this big, slobbery old gal. Iggy soon grows on everyone, especially Paige, when she discovers the dog likes to be read to. When Iggy is taken, Paige sets out to find by who and why. A fun page-turning emotional ride for readers who love dogs and mysteries.
Drawing Deena
By Hena Khan
(Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers)
Deena loves to draw, but she needs to find her own style and convince her parents that this is her path. When she hears them fighting over finances, she steps into the unknown territory of social media to help her mom sell clothes from Pakistan to the locals. While she is navigating the online world, she also struggles with anxiety, panic attacks, and worries about relationships. Middle-grade readers will relate to this heart-warming coming-of-age story and be motivated by Deena’s determination.
Finally Seen
By Kelly Yang
(Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers)
Ten-year-old Lina Gao has not seen her parents and little sister for five years. She was left behind with her grandmother when they moved from Beijing to America. Her Lao Lao showed her love and compassion, but sometimes she felt abandoned. When she finally moves to be with them and live the American Dream, she feels like an outsider and experiences guilt at having left her grandmother in a nursing home. She finds a friend in Finn, and with support from wonderful teachers, a way to tell her story through art. This tale of immigration, family devotion, persistence and resilience will inform and touch young readers.
Make Your Mark, Make a Difference
A Kid’s Guide to Standing Up For People, Animals And The Planet
By Joan Marie Galat
This comprehensive guide for middle-grade readers, has everything they need to know about rallying for a worthy cause, and how to make a stand. Topics include animals and earth issues as well as people and places that need help. Readers are introduced to other young activists, shown how to get facts, and spread the message. Quick quizzes help to narrow down options and short sidebars provide important information. A wonderful addition to school and home libraries, and a great way to connect children with the issues of our changing world.