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Once Upon a Castle
Alan S. Blood
Synopsis: Uncle Toby had said that there would be castles to explore, with ghosts and things. This helps to cheer up the glum twelve-year old Lovell twins, Tom and Mary, leaving their schools and loving parents to be evacuated to wild Northumbria during World War II.

Then the adventure begins. They live with their Aunt Victoria and Uncle Leslie, meet the loveable ‘Mrs M’, a strange dog called ‘Scamp’ and, worst, the terrible private tutor, Miss Urquart, from whom they run away to find a mysterious castle seen through an old telescope.
Now they are drawn into bizarre supernatural events of a time-warp between the war itself and ancient warfare. They encounter dark forces, as the story twists and turns, and are even rescued by the Royal Navy. Yet, this is only the beginning of more unexpected tragedies before the twins begin to escape from it all.
Publication Date:
Age Level: 8 - 12
Genre: Juvenile Fiction
The Adventures of Mr. McGuire and Friends
John Manders, K.A. Yodock
Synopsis: Mr. McGuire is a Boston terrier who lives with his family in the enchanting countryside of New England. He is generally a polite, playful, sort of chap however he's become distressed over the long absences of his parents. This is when the wonderful adventures begin, and it is up to Albert a bluebird, Miss Pearl a pleasant reddish-gray squirrel, and a variety of other woodland friends to dream up a way to help Mr. McGuire overcome his sorrow.

More intrigue is provided by a lovable, rather rascally fox named Red and his medical dilemma. Other character adventures include the account which describes Mr. McGuire's friendship with the amazing Catherine, who is a colorfully striped creature dressed in a tutu, and wearing sixteen ballet slippers one for each of her feet. Finally, Mr. McGuire is introduced to Daisy a timid toy poodle. The friends once again unite to help Daisy prevail.
Publication Date:
Age Level: 8 - 12
Genre: Juvenile Fiction
Calvin the Cookie Maker
Caroline Akervik, Nina Marie Rothfuss
Synopsis: It’s December in Wisconsin and not quite Christmas, which means it’s already cold and snowy and all Calvin Greene can think about is Christmas. After watching a cooking show on TV, he is inspired to make a glittery Christmas Cookie Book that he tries to share with his parents, but they’re too busy to pay attention. Adding to Calvin’s holiday blues, two of the best players on his hockey team want him to play with them in the Pond Hockey Tournament, but his best friend Perry, who’s not a very good hockey player, wants Calvin to play with him, too. What should Calvin do? A snow storm is coming, so who knows if the Pond Hockey will even happen? Life is crazy and Christmas is around the corner! Will Calvin and his family and friends have time to take a breath and enjoy the holiday season?
Publication Date:
Age Level: 8 - 12
Genre: Juvenile Fiction
Euphemia Fan: Spy Girl
Cassandra Neyenesch
Synopsis: It was spying that got me into this pickle…

Euphemia Fan, the only Chinese-American teenage girl in Brackybogue, Long Island, has a knack for spying on her neighbors. No empty house is unexamined, and no resident is ignored. Her eyes are sharp and her wits are keen. But when she sees her great uncle Jiu Jiu murder a man in cold blood, she must put her skills to the ultimate test.

How could Jiu Jiu, her elderly uncle who barely speaks English, commit murder? Is he leading a double life? Who is he working for? When her father goes missing and the police prove to be useless, Euphemia must use her spy skills to uncover the truth. With the help of a swoon-worthy co-spy named Tyler and her older sister, Lillian, Euphemia embarks on the adventure of her life. But can she save her family before it’s too late?
Publication Date:
Age Level: 12 and up
Genre: Juvenile Fiction
Blue Sky
Brian Kindall
Synopsis: Blue Sky can climb like an ibex. She was raised in the highest peaks of the Alps by the herd and named for the color of her eyes. They say her father was a fallen alpinist and her mother his beautiful dying dream… and so, as you may guess, she’s somewhat magical – strong and sure-footed on the peaks, and natural as an ibex in this harsh environment of wind, rock, and ice. Until one day when she rescues a young alpinist from a stormy peak. The boy looks like her, and he tells her of the world of mysteries beyond the crags. Sky longs to follow him. Can a girl raised by ibex in the mountains ever join the world of humans? Blue Sky must first fulfill her promise to the ibex and find the courage to leave everything she’s ever known.
Publication Date:
Age Level: 8 - 12
Genre: Juvenile Fiction
STORM FALL
Tracy Banghart
Synopsis: In the action-packed sequel to Rebel Wing, Aris battles for life and love . . . and not everyone will survive.

Aris Haan gave up everything to join the Atalantan Military: her family, her boyfriend, even her identity. In the end, though, it didn’t matter that she was a war hero. When the all-male Military discovered that she was actually a woman, she was sent home and erased from history.

Now she has a chance to go back to the battlefield—as herself. But as hard as it was to be a soldier in disguise, it’s even more difficult now. The men in her unit undermine her at every turn. The Safaran army has spies everywhere, perhaps even on Aris’s stationpoint. And she’s falling for her mysterious superior officer, Milek. But their relationship is forbidden, just stolen moments between training sessions and missions. There’s no room for love in war.

Then Aris discovers that Safara’s leaders have set their sights on her, Atalanta’s hero. And she must find them before they find her . . .
Publication Date:
Age Level: Mature Young Adult
Genre: Juvenile Fiction
Chasing Light
Angela Jooste
Synopsis: Luce is too used to people leaving her life.

When nineteen year-old Luce receives an unexpected invitation from her late father’s partner, to visit the sea house at Arlington Bay, she has no idea what awaits her, or how her life is about to be turned upside down.

Jake is great at escaping.

After a year-long road trip, Jake decides to join his sister at the sea house, unprepared for facing head on all the reasons he’s been running away since his father’s death.

Gabe just wants to find his way home.

For Gabe Summers, the remote beach at Arlington Bay is his favourite surf break, the place his family calls their second home, and where he met the only girl he’s ever loved. After living in London, Gabe’s world spins off its axis when he discovers that the girl who still haunts him has returned to Arlington Bay.

As past and present converge, old hurts, fears and memories rake up, and the ties of blood, love and loss that connect Luce, Jake and Gabe, will either keep them apart, or open the way to make changes in their lives, by realising what truly matters.
Publication Date:
Age Level: Mature Young Adult
Genre: Juvenile Fiction
The Bewundering World of Bewilderbeests
Bailey Fort, Bailey Fort
Synopsis: Beyond the high seas,
A-way to the east
Lies the Bewundering World of Bewilderbeests…

So begins this charming adventure that introduces us to a colourful cast of strange and silly creatures. Rich illustrations and delightful poems full of wry wit bring to life such confounding beasties as a juggling Millipus, a scatter-brained Two-Headed Mugwump, and more. Bailey Fort's picture book debut captures the heart and spirit of a host of unique characters with a lyrical cadence that makes it a pleasure to read aloud, for both kids and parents alike.

Welcome to the Bewundering World of Bewilderbeests.

A print edition is planned for future release. Learn more at bewunderingworld.com!
Publication Date:
Age Level: 5 - 8
Genre: Juvenile Fiction
The Wind
Matthew Janeski
Synopsis: Kieran Quinn’s cousin is dead. They found him out in the woods, not a scratch on him. Then things got really weird. A creepy FBI agent is following Kieran around town in a minivan. He’s stumbled upon an odd, not-so-abandoned house in the forest. And his new friends, a quartet of octogenarians who live in the basement of a tiny house on Church Street, are telling stories unlike any he’s heard before.

The sudden death of 12-year-old Kieran’s cousin Michael is the first in a string of perplexing events that forces Kieran to remap his inner and outer worlds. Soon after Michael’s funeral, Kieran befriends the residents of a pair of extraordinary houses who begin to weave an unbelievable story about the true nature of the universe. Spurred on by his desire to find answers about Michael’s death, Kieran ranges over the humid suburban landscape, all the while evading an unfriendly FBI agent whose work may involve a lot more than he lets on. As the line between what is real and what is not becomes a blur, Kieran is propelled ever closer to the scene of Michael’s death. Too close, in fact.
Publication Date:
Age Level: 8 - 12
Genre: Juvenile Fiction
Molly McDougal Montgomery McGrath and Other Stories
Synopsis: Grab a chair and sit for a while.
Bring your laughter and your smile.

"Molly McDougal Montgomery McGrath"
Is guaranteed to make you laugh.

As will Aunt Bertha and bald Uncle Fred,
Or would you prefer an odd hat on your head?

In that case, the place is "Fedora Flats."
Where else may you wear a porcupine hat?

I hope that I don’t hear you complain
If zombies await you at Fourth and Main.

You will feel sad when you say goodbye
To "The Beast, The Frog, My Friend and I."

But take heart, dear reader: you’ll split your sides
Reading the stories you find inside.

You will chuckle, chortle, roll on the floor,
Fall down laughing and beg for more.

Hold on to your hat. Admire your pants.
Be grateful for visits from uncles and aunts.

Don’t turn up your nose at the presents they bring.
"Bermuda Shorts" may be just the right thing.

When you’ve read the stories, be happy, my friend.
You will soon take them out and read them again.
Publication Date:
Age Level: 5 - 8
Genre: Juvenile Fiction
unvamped
Elizabeth Stevens
Synopsis: Would you accept yourself to find your humanity?

Ellie Cooper comes from a long line of witches but wishes she could be normal. When she nearly kills herself cursing a vampire, her dislike of her heritage deepens. She must find a way to accept her magic or forsake her family.

After feeding on a witch, 693-year-old vampire Charles Dumphrey wakes to find he is living a human teenage life, complete with parents, school and girls. He must adjust to his new life as a human and find a way to break the curse Ellie put on him.

Lee is a werewolf who is not yet shifting regularly. He worries about who he will be when he regulates. Lee searches for the balance between his humanity and the wolf before the wolf takes over.

All three have to overcome their uncertainties and accept themselves in order to save Ellie’s life.
Publication Date:
Age Level: 12 and up
Genre: Juvenile Fiction
Fairy Godmothers of The Four Directions
Synopsis: Honorable Mention Writer's Digest 2016 Inspirational eBooks

A sophisticated story of empowerment and mysticism balanced with science and wrapped in the rich symbolic language of the fairy tale. Cinderella journeys around the cardinal points of the compass studying with a Fairy Godmother for each direction. She must awaken to the Four Directions on her quest to wholeness and the totality required to become Queen.

FROM THE MIDWEST BOOK REVIEWS senior editor Diane Donavan

"A powerful examination of vulnerability and change that takes the trappings of a well-worn fairytale and injects it with new life. Readers of psychology, fantasy retellings, and self-help books will find Fairy Godmothers of The Four Directions a satisfyingly different approach that succeeds in packing much food for thought into what initially appears to be a simple retelling."

If fairy tales are like life, filled with insurmountable obstacles and heart breaking tragedies, how do we find happiness? Be honest, we are all looking for our happily-ever-after. To find her happiness Cinderella is required to transform from a girl into a Princess. Only a Princess can marry the Prince. This is fairytale speak for becoming a whole person. And the journey to wholeness is through the Four Directions, for her and for you, too.

The Prince explains, "Each direction is a paradigm for inward knowledge and worldly knowledge. A Fairy Godmother will introduce you to the qualities of their specific direction. Resolve the challenges and awaken... Together the Four Directions form the beginning of wisdom. Find the center of the Four Directions to claim your throne."

Like you and me, Cinderella is confused. "Four Directions? Fairy Godmothers? A Throne?"

Prince said, “There are many Fairy Godmothers. I studied with a different Fairy Godmother for each cardinal direction.” He added, “The dangers inherent in running a Kingdom are immense. People have agenda's, they cover deceit with distractions, and some are just plain dangerous when they don't get what they want. The Kingdom (life) requires you know your strengths, see past manipulation and deceit. The Four Directions will teach you..." Experience the adventures with Cinderella as she studies with The Fairy Godmothers of the Four Directions.
Publication Date:
Age Level: 8 - 12
Genre: Juvenile Fiction
I Heart Superhero Kid
Ryan McFate, Jason Tanamor
Synopsis: From critically acclaimed author Jason Tanamor comes "I Heart Superhero Kid."

The legacy of Superhero Kid is tested when his family's arch enemy, the Evil Man, plots out major sadness during the city's largest public event - the best pizza pie contest. A city filled with happiness - largely due to the protection of Superhero Kid - the Evil Man challenges the area's beloved hero to a hand-to-hand battle.

Lizzy and Carrie, two preteen school girls, obsess over the thought that Superhero Kid may actually be a student at their school. Armed with past yearbooks and determination, the two friends narrow down all the boys in a selfish attempt to reveal the identity of Superhero Kid.

On the day of the best pizza pie contest - the event seeing big named celebrities such as Johnny Depp and Brad Pitt, politicians like President Obama and Bernie Sanders, and musicians including The 1975 - the Evil Man makes his move. Taking Lizzy hostage, Superhero Kid arrives to save the day. But not before an epic battle between happiness and sadness. With moves such as snake bite arm twists and Wet Willies, Superhero Kid handles the Evil Man's threat in stride, forcing evil to disappear for good.

The city is once again safe, and Superhero Kid is hailed a hero. However, Lizzy is left unfulfilled. That is until she develops a plan.

"I Heart Superhero Kid" is an epic superhero story told in rhyming verse involving a hero, his arch enemy, and a girl with a crazy mad crush.
Publication Date:
Age Level: 8 - 12
Genre: Juvenile Fiction
Liberty Frye and the Sails of Fate (series, Book Two)
Synopsis: On the morning of her eleventh birthday, nothing feels particularly celebratory to Liberty Frye. As if being a witch in training isn’t confusing enough, her mother’s mysterious illness has grown worse overnight and her best-friend-turned-foster-sister Ginny is driving her crazy.

Then there’s the matter of the new invention that Uncle Frank has brought to her surprise party. When her freaky powers accidentally activate it, Libby and her unsuspecting party guests are transported into an ocean of darkness. Literally. Soon, they’re running – or rather, sailing – for their lives, chasing after clues while dodging angry islanders and makeshift spells gone awry.

If they have any hope of finding their way home, Libby knows she must confront the dark forces bent on deciding their future. But what she doesn’t know is … how?
Publication Date:
Age Level: 8 - 12
Genre: Juvenile Fiction
Campion's Choice
GL Wilson
Synopsis: Coins that have magical properties. Aliens. Scorpions. Attempted murder. Elvis alive and well and driving a moped. What more could you want? Mystery, adventure, fantasy? Look no further. Step right up and enjoy the show. This is Campion's Choice.

Jack Campion was just an ordinary thirteen year old kid - well, maybe not that ordinary, not after the Dadster's accident - so ok, ordinary or not, the last thing he was expecting was all that whooshy stuff in the air raid shelter.
And Tia Cole had a normal thirteen year old life - with her blind, piano playing mum and her irritating younger brother - and she was not expecting to end up, in a wood, fighting for her life against every animal that has ever wanted to eat a person.
If only Clamp hadn't mentioned the Deathstalker. If only the Nomas had found the meteorite. If only Gidean St-George wasn't such a pain in the neck. Things might have been different.
But they weren't different. So expect the extraordinary - expect Aliens, magic coins, sabre toothed tigers and the occasional bit of walking through walls. That way you won't be disappointed.
This is Jack's story - just don't tell Tia.

G.L. Wilson is a children's author and playwright. And he taught English. (But is not fussy about starting sentences with And).
Publication Date:
Age Level: 8 - 12
Genre: Juvenile Fiction
Sign of the Green Dragon
C. Lee McKenzie
Synopsis: Three plucky sleuths. A crumbling skeleton. A buried treasure.

After six months in a new school, Sam’s finally fitting in. He’s the one kid with enough talent to hit the winning home run and bring the baseball trophy back to Haggarty Elementary. But Sam’s guardian is shipping him off to boarding school before that can happen.

When teammates, Joey and Roger, hear his bad news, they plot to hide him until the big game. Their secret cave is a perfect place until an earthquake shatters a wall and reveals a wooden chest with a red-eyed dragon carved into its top. Inside, a bony hand clutches a map with a note, promising treasure.

With Joey and Roger, Sam sets off to track down the clues and hopefully discover treasure. When some puzzle pieces start to make sense, the boys become lost in a labyrinth of underground tunnels, trapped by dangerous thieves and sealed inside an airless tomb.

Sign of the Green Dragon gets a high five for fantasy, fun and some fearsome adventure. If you like intrepid would-be knights on impossible and dangerous quests, you’ll love this story. As one reader says, this book, “has more twists than a dragon’s tail.”

Buy now to jump into the adventure.
Publication Date:
Age Level: 8 - 12
Genre: Juvenile Fiction

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