Zola's Elephant

Zola's Elephant
by Randall de Seve
illustrated by Pamela Zagarenski

Zola has an elephant!  At least, that's what her new next-door neighbor thinks.   Why else would there be such a large box?   An unnamed narrator longingly imagines what it must be like over at Zola's, envisioning all the fun that Zola must be having with her elephant.  Why would Zola need a new friend if she already has an elephant to play with? 

What a sweet, engaging story!  The narrator's perspective of Zola and her elephant are shown in bright,  vivid images, while alternating illustrations, in grayer tones, show the reality of what is happening over at Zola's house.   Readers will enjoy the detailed illustrations and heartwarming story. 

Author's website: http://www.randalldeseve.com/

The Time Museum

The Time Museum
by Matthew Loux

Delia is competing for an internship at a unique museum: the Time Museum.   Her fellow competitors are kids from all over time, including ancient Rome and the distant future.  To prove themselves worthy of the internship, they participate in time-traveling missions where they realize that, in order to succeed, they must learn to trust each other and work together as a team. 

This fun graphic novel is the first in a new, exciting series!   Humorous, yet full of action and unexpected twists, this book will be a great choice for graphic novel fans as well as readers who enjoy science fiction.  I'm looking forward to reading the next book in this series, which is scheduled to be released in June!

Author's website: http://www.mattloux.com/

The Trail

The Trail
by Meika Hashimoto

There were 10 things on the list that Toby and Lucas were going to do during the summer before middle school.    There is now one last item to complete on that list, and Toby must do it alone.   The final task: hike to Mount Katahdin from their home, a 440 mile trek.   Will Toby be able to complete the daunting journey?

This is an emotional story full of a lot of action and adventure!   Fans of Lost on a Mountain in Maine will want to read this tale of a boy determined to fulfill a pact made with his best friend.

Train I Ride

Train I Ride
by Paul Mosier

It's a long train ride from California to Chicago for Rydr.  Because her grandmother can no longer care for her, she is forced to go live with a relative she's never met.   During the lengthy journey, Rydr learns more about some of her fellow passengers while, over time, heartbreaking details of her chaotic life emerge. 

This was a beautiful, emotional story that I could not put down until I finished!   Rydr is an amazing character that has faced many challenges and, despite putting on a tough, savvy exterior, struggles with the heartbreaks of her life. I highly recommend this outstanding book!