Do you need a book to read under a shady tree this summer? Or under a shady…air conditioner vent? No judgment! Either way, try one of these new books. My unofficial theme this month is siblings, so maybe share that perfect reading spot with a sibling—or at least share a favorite book if you both would rather have your own space!
Picture Books
“I Got You” written by Derrick Barnes and illustrated by Shamar Knight-Justice
Ever since Rasheed can remember, his big brother Anthony has been there for him. Anthony taught him how to build, demolish and rebuild block towers, and how to button his own shirt for church. He comforted him during thunderstorms and showed him how to ride a bike. Anthony has always been there, reassuring him with the words, “I got you.” As the boys grow older, Rasheed learns that it’s okay if they don’t spend all their time together; their love and bond will still be strong. When their parents announce a new addition to the family, Rasheed is thrilled to become the kind of steady and loving big brother that Anthony has always been for him. I feel like there are a lot of books out there about resolving sibling conflict, but I love that this book focuses on secure, joyful connections.
“Island Storm” written by Brian Floca and illustrated by Sydney Smith
When you were a kid, did you ever feel like a coming thunderstorm was an invitation to adventure? That’s certainly the case for the two siblings in this book. As the sky darkens, they decide to go watch the sea before the storm. Reveling in the SMASH of the waves on the rocks, they nudge each other further on instead of home. They explore their eerily deserted island town as the wind howls and knocks tree branches together. An especially loud crash of thunder sends them racing home through the pelting rain, back to their mother. “Home to relief, and to love./ Home to trouble, too!/ Home to forgiveness.” The poetic text and rich illustrations perfectly capture the might and majesty of a storm and the adventure and camaraderie of sharing it with someone you love.
Chapter Books
“The Boy, the Mountain, and the Serpent Who Ate the Moon” by Caris Avendaño Cruz
In the town of Santo Cristo, everyone knows that it’s dangerous to be outside after sundown. The streets fill with thick fog, and those who wander off the red-lit paths often disappear forever. Bayani, his little sister Isay and their cousin Aaron are enjoying the town’s annual evening festival when they attempt a shortcut over a mysterious bridge. The bridge pulls up its footings, grows legs, and carries them away to the Land of Night, before running off into the darkness. The stranded trio encounter mythological creatures from Filipino folklore and learn that they must find the bridge again and cross it to return home. They must wield light and hope in the face of darkness as they learn more about the land and themselves. With a touch of horror thanks to the folklore monsters, this book has a powerful emphasis on optimism, tenacity and friendship.
“Another” by Paul Tremblay
This has more than a touch of horror, as it’s an acclaimed adult horror writer’s middle grade debut. No gore or violence, though, just masterfully built, creeping dread. Casey is surprised when his mother receives a phone call and gives permission for a friend to come for a sleepover. Because Casey hasn’t had any friends since the “Zoom Incident,” when a bully recorded his nervous tics and posted them online. A man drops off a dusty burlap sack at the front door, revealing a boy with skin like clay, and Casey’s parents graciously invite Morel into their lives. Morel doesn’t sleep or eat, but no one else seems to think it odd. So Casey allows the new friend to draw manga and play video games with him, and soon his parents start to confuse the two of them. The sleepover appears to have no end in sight, and Casey becomes exhausted as his parents seem to prefer Morel over him. By the time he realizes something is wrong, it may be too late to save himself and his family.
