9–12

“The joy is in the reading. . . . What else could a child ask for in a story?”

“Liar and Spy is a worthwhile read . . .”

Rebecca Stead covers a lot of ground in her new middle grade mystery Liar and Spy.

“The subject of same-sex marriages is tastefully handled in a manner preteens can understand and relate to.”

“Tony DiTerlizzi has created a cast of fascinating characters engaged in epic adventures. How often must a 12-year-old child struggle against evil to save her world?

“The story careens along from the very beginning to the last page.

“What the Dog Said takes a sad topic and turns it into a humorous and heartwarming story.

“Historical fiction can be the best education, because it engages people’s minds and hearts differently than the classroom—and often better.

“Enlivened by expressive drawings that evoke Old World places and people, The Mermaid of Warsaw is a collection worth dipping into.”

“Adults and scholars will find much to enjoy both in the editor’s insightful introductory essay and in her concise, interesting biographies of the artists. . . .

“Fever is an engaging heroine, intelligent yet oddly naïve in the ways of life. Mr. Reeve is a talented world-maker and first-class storyteller.

“The Elephant Scientist, with its clear writing, concise explanation of complex concepts, and exceptional photography, is a first-rate addition to the series.”

Hummingbirds: Facts and Folklore from the Americas lives up to the promise of its title.