Older Child Readers (Ages 10-13)

Pullman is best known for his more mature fantasies (His Dark Materials books). But he's also written several imaginative, droll children's novels. He returns in force to those roots in Two Crafty Criminals! And How They were Captured by the Daring Detectives of the New Cut Gang. A ragtag, multi-ethnic crew of street urchins in Victorian London save the innocent from prison, bring true lovers together, and outsmart the police in two humorous novellas.

Read, enjoy, and keep on the good side of the twins. For ages 9 and up.- Rosemary (Note that it comes out in May.)

Evil has a new face – a goofy face, in this case. Vordak gives all would be rulers of the world advice on cape selection, super weapons, and picking your minions. (Don't know what a “minion” is? See, your vocabulary is improving already...) But first, you better pass that Evil Aptitude test...

Fourteen year old Sara feels invisible in her rural West Virginia town. Her life changes unexpectedly after Charlie, her ten year old brother with special needs, disappears – and her aunt becomes hysterical with worry. This story enlightens some of the unknown in which family members must adapt to when loving each other unconditionally in unique ways.

My son and I both love Jordan Sonnenblick's books. This sequel to DRUMS, GIRLS, & DANGEROUS PIE may be his best ever. He captures the world of adolescents, especially males, perfectly.

Spoiler alert: stop here if you haven't read DRUMS. You don't have to read it to love AFTER, but you'll want to.

Jeffrey is now an 8th grader, dealing with post-cancer life (and its aftermath, like nerve damage & learning disabilities), school, friends, and a first crush. And he's doing it without Steven, who's off in Africa. It's a bittersweet, humorous, life-changing year, and you'll be glad to share it with him. For ages 11 and up.