Survivors of the Holocaust

6 brief stories of children who survived the Holocaust.  Would be a good, gently introduction especially as it is told in graphic novel format.

Anya and the Dragon

I love dragons and had high hopes for this.  I loved the mix of fantasy elements and Russian and Jewish history and folklore but alas the dragon didn't really appear until at least 1/2 the book was over and there just wasn't enough of him.  Bummer.

The Long Ride

It is the 1970s in NYC and 3 girls are part of an experiment to force integration by bussing them across town.  But one girl's parent object and she is sent to a private school instead.  All 3 of them encounter difficulties during the transition - prejudice, assumptions, new friendships, boys and the struggle to fit in.  Can they stay true to themselves?

This was a quick read and pretty thought provoking.  How do adult decisions affect the lives of the children?  Good historical insight.

The Okay Witch

Moth has no idea that she comes from a family of witches - not until some strange things happen including a talking cat.  But her mom wants nothing to do with witchcraft - in fact she turned her back on the whole thing.  But Moth is torn between listening to her mother's wishes and exploring her new powers.  What is an okay witch to do?

This was a decent book.  Students will like it.

Stargazing

Christine's new friend Moon is everything she is not - confident, funny, unconventional.  But when Moon starts becoming more popular Christine feels threatened and does something mean.  Unfortunately that coincides with the discovery of Moon's serious medical condition.  Can Christine find a way to apologize and still be friends with Moon?

This was pretty standard fare.  My students will like it but I find it a bit basic.

All the Impossible Things

Red has been in foster care for about 3 years.  Her mom is in prison and her grandmother died of cancer.  Her placements have been terrible so far but her latest - with Celine and Jackson - finally feels like home.  She helps with their petting zoo, she has friends, and she is growing to love them.  When her mom gets out early though, Red is hopeful that they will soon be reunited, especially in light of Celine's cancer that is freaking her out.  Can her mom truly keep things together so they can live together again?

This was a very touching story and one that, unfortunately, too many of my students will relate to.  

More to the Story

Jameela dreams of being a journalist and when she becomes an editor of the school paper she is thrilled.  But life has been tough at home.  First her dad lost his job and ended up having to go overseas for work.  Then her younger sister ended up with lymphoma.  To top it off there is always drama with her sisters and now a boy, Ali, is distracting her.  Can Jameela figure out the truth of everyone's story and how to contribute in a meaningful way?

The afterward and promotional material talk about how this is inspired by Little Women.  I never would have picked up on it without seeing those bits of info.  It is a decent story with good diversity.