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The Wee Musketeers
Mr. Robert B. Bresloff
Synopsis: It was early 1960's and there wasn't much else for three eleven year old boys to do in the small town where they lived. Playing with wooden swords they would act out the novel, Bobby pretending to be Athos, Fritzy, Porthos and Keith, Aramis. But, since there was only three boys they had no D'Artagnan. How the boys longed for a D'Artagnan to complete their games. Little did they know that very book that inspired their games, the one Grandpa Max read to them often, was indeed magic. Given to him by a mysterious old woman at a book sale, Bobby's Grandfather quickly discovered he could transport himself into the stories. Once Grandpa Max realized he had interfered with the plot, unwittingly getting Athos, Porthos and Aramis captured by the cardinals guards to keep them from helping D'Artagnan, he summons Bobby and his friends to help him repair the damage. If they fail, every copy of The Three Musketeers would change forever.
Publication Date: 02/14/13
Age Level: 8 - 12
Genre: Juvenile Fiction
Sherpa's Adventure: Saving the Future
Synopsis: 2013 Silver Medal Award Winner with Readers Favorite! The year is 2310. It's been a strange Sweet Sixteen for Sherpa. First Lillian, her mother and Ruler of the Western World, was able to slip a surprise birthday party past her. Then Lillian revealed a secret government laboratory Sherpa's never even heard of, one that is working on a time travel gadget she has also never heard of. Now to top it off, she is given this gadget called a Reality Tracking Device (RTD) for use in travelling back and forth in time. Why? Well, the secrets are only just beginning to reveal themselves...and the next one is a doozy. Turns out that rather than being appointed Chancellor of Positivity, Sherpa's greatest dream, she is instead tasked with saving the earth's future from General Aveel, the evil dictator bent on destroying the world peace. Saving the world is not easy, so she practices by traveling on "hops" to help famous people such as Amelia Earhart, Gustave Eiffel, and Neil Armstrong- when they were kids- avoid making mistakes which would change the course of history. Sherpa gradually uncovers the RTD's power... and finds herself growing up in the process. When a hop lands her in the year 2013, she joins forces with Emma and Jose and the adventures really begin. Journeying down the Road of Life, barely escaping from transfiguring Hubots, and saving Pineville Middle School from negativity and bullying gives them the practice they need to stop General Aveel's heinous plot before it's too late--and hopefully before the inventor of the RTD, the brilliant -and gorgeous- Dr. Troy Lichtenstein has a girlfriend! A highly entertaining and thrilling look at a potential future for humankind, Lori Costew's debut is a hilarious and insightful adventure filled with thought provoking insight, one that shows how damaging bullying and negativity are and how they keep us all from realizing our true potential. Today's kids are tomorrow's leaders; they are highly connected and have an idealistic spirit. Sherpa's Adventure: Saving the Future demonstrates the importance of being part of something bigger than yourself. Come ride the wave with Sherpa! Reviews: "This is a thrilling, insightful, and hilarious look into the future. Every page draws you more and more into Sherpa's adventure and the world of 2310. A book for all adventure lovers and space travelers of the future."--Lara Robinson, actress, The Knowing "...delightfully well-written novel. The dialogue is appealing, the plotline flows nicely to the story's conclusion, and readers of all ages will appreciate the message that good decisions make for good lives."--Rated 5 Stars: Readers Favorite
Publication Date: 02/14/13
Age Level: 8 - 12
Genre: Adventure
Above World
Jenn Reese
Synopsis: Reese, Jenn
Publication Date: 02/12/13
Age Level: 8 - 12
Genre: Juvenile Fiction
Beholding Bee
Kimberly Newton Fusco
Synopsis: “Fans of Kate DiCamillo, Jennifer Holm, and Polly Horvath will find this an enjoyable and engrossing read.” —School Library Journal
 
Bee is an orphan who lives with a carnival and sleeps in the back of a truck. Every day she endures taunts for the birthmark on her face, though she prefers to think of it as a precious diamond.
 
Then one day a scruffy dog shows up, as unwanted as she, and Bee realizes she must find a home for them both. She discovers a cozy house with gingerbread trim that reminds her of frosting, where two mysterious women, Mrs. Swift and Mrs. Potter, take her in. Whoever these women are, they matter. They matter to Bee. And they are helping Bee realize that she, too, matters to the world—if only she will let herself be a part of it.
Publication Date: 02/12/13
Age Level: 8 - 12
Genre: Juvenile Fiction
Better Nate Than Ever
Tim Federle
Synopsis: “The Nate series by Tim Federle is a wonderful evocation of what it’s like to be a theater kid. Highly recommended.” —Lin-Manuel Miranda, star and creator of the musical, Hamilton

A New York Times Notable Book of the Year
A Publishers Weekly Best Book of the Year
A Slate Favorite Book of the Year

A small-town boy hops a bus to New York City to crash an audition for E.T.: The Musical in this winning middle grade novel that The New York Times called “inspired and inspiring.”

Nate Foster has big dreams. His whole life, he’s wanted to star in a Broadway show. (Heck, he’d settle for seeing a Broadway show.) But how is Nate supposed to make his dreams come true when he’s stuck in Jankburg, Pennsylvania, where no one (except his best pal Libby) appreciates a good show tune? With Libby’s help, Nate plans a daring overnight escape to New York. There’s an open casting call for E.T.: The Musical, and Nate knows this could be the difference between small-town blues and big-time stardom.

Tim Federle’s “hilarious and heartwarming debut novel” (Publishers Weekly) is full of broken curfews, second chances, and the adventure of growing up—because sometimes you have to get four hundred miles from your backyard to finally feel at home.
Publication Date: 02/05/13
Age Level: 8 - 12
Genre: Juvenile Fiction
Flora and the Flamingo
Synopsis: A 2014 Caldecott Honor Book

In this innovative wordless picture book with interactive flaps, Flora and her graceful flamingo friend explore the trials and joys of friendship through an elaborate synchronized dance. With a twist, a turn, and even a flop, these unlikely friends learn at last how to dance together in perfect harmony. Full of humor and heart, this stunning performance (and splashy ending!) will have readers clapping for more!

For more feathery fun, pick up Flora and the Penguin, Flora and the Peacocks, Flora and Friends Matching Game or, coming soon, Flora and the Chicks.
Publication Date: 02/05/13
Age Level: 8 - 12
Genre: Juvenile Fiction
Finders Keepers? A True Story in India
Smita Turakhia, Robert Arnett
Synopsis: Robert Arnett
Publication Date: 01/20/13
Age Level: 8 - 12
Genre: Educational
¿Es mio? Una historia verdadera en la India
Smita Turakhia, Robert Arnett
Synopsis: ¿Es mio? is the translation of the English edition of Finders Keepers?, the honored recipient of many distinguished awards. The charming true story set in India incorporates the author's heartwarming experiences while traveling there. The book shares the traditions, customs, and values of the people through simple experiences he had with them. The delightful jewel-toned illustrations take children on a picturesque, fun-filled journey through the exotic land.

The author's experiences emphasize timeless and universal values of honesty, respect, doing the right thing, and brotherhood. This wonderful book teaches multicultural respect, character education skills, self-esteem, tolerance, and cultural awareness. Includes glossary, pronunciations of Indian words, engaging character-building questions, facts on India, and craft activity.

With such beautiful illustrations and story, ¿Es mio? is an excellent picture book for parents and educators seeking to introduce children to lands beyond their borders. A great character education and a multicultural book.

Finders Keepers? un libro infantil en inglés y ganador de prestigiosos premios en los Estados Unidos, nos llega traducido al español bajo el titulo ¿Es mío? Este libro encantador nos trae una historia para niños y niñas con un mensaje que perdura en el tiempo. El autor narra sus cálidas y sencillas experiencias en la India y comparte con el lector las tradiciones, los estilos de vida y los valores de las personas con los que convivió. Las vívidas ilustraciones, abundantes en detalles, capturan los colores, la vida diaria y a las gentes de la India de tal forma, que la historia cobra vida.

Pinturas suntuosas con motivos de la India, matizadas con los colores de las piedras preciosas...[y] manjar tentador para la imaginación viajera...entretiene al lector.... School Library Journal

Un libro ilustrado verdaderamente excepcional, un tesoro para compartir con pequeñines y jóvenes. Midwest Book Review

Ilustraciones esplendidas y un mensaje global...un libro maravilloso...enseña el respeto multicultural, la educación del carácter, tolerancia y conciencia cultural... [los estudiantes] querían que volviera leer el libro una vez lo habíamos terminado. Learning® Magazine Teacher Evaluators

Publication Date: 01/20/13
Age Level: 8 - 12
Genre: Spanish
Horatio's One Wish
James Bernardin, Joshua Kriesberg
Synopsis: Winner of the Mom's Choice Awards Gold Medal. This is a story that will tickle your funny-bone and touch your heart.  "Gently inspiring prose in the style of Charlotte's Web," raves The Midwest Book Review. "A touching tale with kindness, empathy, and courage." "Delightful." "Unforgettable."  

"Amiable traveling companions" take you on "a journey with considerable suspense," writes Publisher Weekly.  "All the right elements for an epic read-aloud adventure," says Seattle Child's Magazine.
              
Horatio has lived alone as long as he can remember. His only friend is a river otter named Rollic, who visits him nearly every day. But when Rollic goes missing, Horatio knows he must try to find him. With the help of hamster twins, Whisklet and Whimser, Horatio embarks on an adventure beyond anything he could have dreamed. Along the way, Horatio meets Leala, a champion archer from the hedgehog village--a village Horatio never knew existed. Leala opens a door to a home Horatio has yearned for all his life. Will Horatio continue on and risk his life to rescue his friend or will he follow Leala back to his long-lost home?

Enter a world full of magic and mystery, of woodland creatures and strange beasts.  Horatio's One Wish is a humorous and heartwarming story that shows what true friendship means. Show less
Publication Date: 01/16/13
Age Level: 8 - 12
Genre: Fiction
The Reluctant Knight
Doug Glener
Synopsis: Percival Adler always dreamed of going on a quest-until he stumbled into a real one. Now he's found himself entangled in an adventure with a Mongol warlord, an insane pharaoh, and the greatest samurai of 19th-century Japan. The cast of characters takes to Manhattan in search of a legendary relic that gives its wielder unimaginable power. Inside: lost civilizations, time-traveling warriors, suspicious parents, barbarous hordes, and one unforgettable ride.
Publication Date: 01/15/13
Age Level: 8 - 12
Genre: Fantasy
The Reluctant Knight
Doug Glener
Synopsis: Percival Adler always dreamed of going on a quest-until he stumbled into a real one. Now he's found himself entangled in an adventure with a Mongol warlord, an insane pharaoh, and the greatest samurai of 19th-century Japan. The cast of characters takes to Manhattan in search of a legendary relic that gives its wielder unimaginable power. Inside: lost civilizations, time-traveling warriors, suspicious parents, barbarous hordes, and one unforgettable ride.
Publication Date: 01/15/13
Age Level: 8 - 12
Genre: Fantasy
Horse Diaries #10: Darcy
Ruth Sanderson, Whitney Sanderson
Synopsis: Ireland, 1917. Darcy is a light gray Connemara pony with silver dapples. She's fast and tough, whether she's pulling a load of peat from the bog or riding around the rugged countryside with Shannon McKenna, her human family's eldest daughter. But when Mrs. McKenna needs a doctor, Darcy discovers a skill that will change her and her family's life forever. Like Black Beauty, this moving novel is told in first person from the horse's point of view and includes an appendix full of photos and facts about Connemara ponies and Irish history.
Publication Date: 01/08/13
Age Level: 8 - 12
Genre: Fiction
The Resisters #3: Titan Base
Synopsis: Million-copy bestselling Halo author and game developer Eric Nylund brings action-packed science fiction to a young audience with the third book in the Resisters series.  

Despite their recent victory over the alien Ch'zar, Ethan Blackwood and his squadron have no time to rest. The Ch'zar are still relentlessly searching for the Seed Bank, the Resisters' secret base—and they're getting dangerously close. If they find it, all the adults in the Seed Bank will be absorbed into the the aliens' collective mind. Now Ethan and his friends must evade all Ch'zar scouts and find a new home for the Resistance. Once again, it's all up to the kids.
Publication Date: 01/08/13
Age Level: 8 - 12
Genre: Science Fiction
Sammy Keyes and the Showdown in Sin City
Synopsis: "The most winning junior detective ever in teen lit. (Take that, Nancy Drew!)" —Midwest Children's Book Review

In this pivotal book in the Sammy Keyes series, Sammy tackles the persistent mysteries of her own life. Mysteries like: Who is her father? And why has her mother kept it such a secret? How long can she manage to hide out in Grams' seniors-only building before someone catches on? Is her mother really planning to marry her boyfriend's father? (Ew.) And why, why is Heather Acosta so nasty?

During one crazy weekend in Las Vegas, with the help of an entire army of Elvis impersonators, Sammy finally gets some answers. But of course knowledge comes at a price—and solving the mysteries of her own life will cost Sammy more than she ever meant to pay. . . .

The Sammy Keyes mysteries are fast-paced, funny, thoroughly modern, and true whodunits. Each mystery is exciting and dramatic, but it's the drama in Sammy's personal life that keeps readers coming back to see what happens next with her love interest Casey, her soap-star mother, and her mysterious father.
Publication Date: 01/08/13
Age Level: 8 - 12
Genre: Juvenile Fiction
One Came Home
Amy Timberlake
Synopsis: A Newbery Honor Book

An ALA-ALSC Notable Children's Book

Winner of the Edgar Allan Poe Award for Best Juvenile Novel

“An adventure, a mystery, and a love song to the natural world. . . . Run out and read it. Right now.”—Newbery Medalist Karen Cushman


In the town of Placid, Wisconsin, in 1871, Georgie Burkhardt is known for two things: her uncanny aim with a rifle and her habit of speaking her mind plainly.

But when Georgie blurts out something she shouldn't, her older sister Agatha flees, running off with a pack of "pigeoners" trailing the passenger pigeon migration. And when the sheriff returns to town with an unidentifiable body—wearing Agatha's blue-green ball gown—everyone assumes the worst. Except Georgie. Refusing to believe the facts that are laid down (and coffined) before her, Georgie sets out on a journey to find her sister. She will track every last clue and shred of evidence to bring Agatha home. Yet even with resolute determination and her trusty Springfield single-shot, Georgie is not prepared for what she faces on the western frontier.
Publication Date: 01/08/13
Age Level: 8 - 12
Genre: Mystery
Quicksilver
R. J. Anderson
Synopsis: Back home Tori was the girl who had everything a sixteen-year-old could want--popularity, money, beauty. Everything. Including a secret. That secret made her very valuable.

Now she's left everything from her old life behind, including her real name and Alison, the only person who truly understood her. She can't lose the secret. But if she wants to have anything resembling a normal life, she has to blend in and hide her unique…talents.

Plans change when the enigmatic Sebastian Faraday reappears in Tori's life and delivers bad news: she hasn't escaped. In fact, she's attracted new interest in the form of an obsessed ex-detective now in the employ of a genetics lab.

She has only one shot at ditching her past for good and living like the normal human she wishes she could be. Tori must use every ounce of her considerable hacking and engineering skills--and even then, she might need to sacrifice more than she could possibly imagine if she wants to be free.

The riveting companion to R.J. Anderson's acclaimed Ultraviolet.
Publication Date: 01/01/13
Age Level: 8 - 12
Genre: Science Fiction

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