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New and popular titles at Juniata County Library

BOOK REPORT

With so many good books being released all the time, it can be hard to determine what to check out next. Every week, I offer a run-down of significant releases available here at the library.

Visit our online card catalog at juniata.sparkpa.org to search today or call (717 436-6378 to have a helpful library staff member assist you.

Please note: we have interfiled out young adult (YA) books with our adult books.

“The King of Kindergarten,” by Derrick Barnes; illustrated by Vanessa Brantley-Newton

With less than 40 days until school returns, check out this great picture book! A young boy greets the reader with a sweet smile. “The morning sun blares through your window like a million brass trumpets. / It sits and shines behind your head–like a crown.” The text continues in second person while the boy gets ready for his first day–brushing “Ye Royal Chiclets,” dressing himself, eating breakfast with his mother and father before riding “a big yellow carriage” to “a grand fortress.” The kind teacher and the other children at his table are as eager to meet him as he is to meet them. Important topics are covered in class (“shapes, the alphabet, and the never-ending mystery of numbers”), but playing at recess and sharing with new friends at lunch are highlights too, followed by rest time and music. The playful illustrations use texture and shadow to great effect, with vibrant colors and dynamic shapes and lines sustaining readers’ interest on every page. Text and visuals work together beautifully to generate excitement and confidence in children getting ready to enter kindergarten. The little king’s smiling brown face is refreshing and heartwarming. The other children and parents are a mix of races; the teacher and staff are mostly brown. You can find this book in the New Kids Easy Reader section.

Bookshots …

Here are some quick book recommendations that include star ratings I give them or whether you should skip it, borrow it, or buy it.

“Girls Like Us,” by Cristina Alger (5 stars)

“Whisper Network,” by Chandler Baker (5 stars)

“I Love You, But I Hate Your Politics,” by Jeanne Safer (4 stars)

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Vince Giordano has been the director of the Juniata County Library since 2015. Support the library today!

Visit www.juniatalibrary.org/donate.

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