I have some book recommendations for you! They aren’t grouped by a particular theme or genre; this month’s recommendations are books I’ve read this month and enjoyed.  They are also books I’ve book talked in my classroom and had many students read and like too.  Enjoy!

The Pushcart War

Author: Jean Merrill

Genre: realistic fiction; satire

This book was recommended to me by our library specialist and even though it was written decades ago, I thoroughly enjoyed the wit and humor.  If you haven’t read it, you’re in for a real treat.

When The Sea Turned to Silver

Author: Grace Lin

Genre: fantasy

Not only is this book beautifully written, but the artwork is amazing as well.  If you love mythology and folklore, you’ll love this book.  The author does a fantastic job weaving old Chinese tales into the larger plot structure.  (And the protagonist is a young girl!)  I could not put this book down.

Hey, Kiddo

Author: Jarrett Krosoczka

Genre: graphic novel; memoir

This is the first graphic novel I read and while the storyline is a bit dark, it gripped me early on.  The author is the illustrator and while things in his life were crumbling around him, he clung to his dream–art–to survive.  Gritty and powerful read.

Counting by 7s

Author: Holly Goldberg Sloan

Genre: realistic

This started out as a heart-wrenching book, but the determination of the main character to not just survive, but truly live, was what captivated me.  Although the main character, Willow, has quite a few eccentricities, she grows on you and you end up rooting for her to pick up the pieces and make it through another day.  Great story for students who need a little encouragement, hope, or resilience.

What books have you read this month? I’d love to hear your recommendations!