There are many believes about what happens after death. Many cultures believe in an afterlife. Even going back to the myths there are stories of the underworld. We have shared a few books that share different views on the afterlife. Today we are sharing a new middle grade graphic novel about two kids who venture into the Land of the Dead to find loved ones. The book is Through the Black Gate by Alfredo Cáceres. It is recommended for ages 8 to 12.
Schools are ending and summer vacations are beginning. But that means summer reading is beginning as well!! Earlier this week we shared a roundup of new picture books for 4- to 8-year-olds. Today we are sharing the middle grade roundup including three new books--two of which will be reviewed today. (The third will be reviewed later this summer!) There is a variety of books here and there is something for everyone in the age range of 8- to 12-year-olds. The first book is the only graphic novel on the list. It is Space Chasers by Leland Melvin and Joe Caramagna and illustrated by Alison Acton.
I'm a bit behind in reading my chapter books, but I have finished this one so I have to share it with you. It came out at the end of March. It is a middle grade fantasy novel with Greek mythology references. It takes place in the Underworld. The book is the first in what is called The Underwild Series. The book is River of Spirits by Shana Targosz. It is recommended for ages 8 to 12.
Have you ever thought about what happens when someone insults or upsets another? Today I get to share a middle grades/middle school novel that shares a bit about the science of bioenergy fields as well as a fantasy element. The book is the first in a series. It is Energy Wars: The Awakening by Jodi Dee. There is a giveaway at the end of this post.
Have you ever lost a pet? It is devastating. I have shared about losing two of our cats: Simba and Pumpkin. It is so hard on us as adults, but it can be even harder on our children. I remember explaining to Hazel that Simba was going to heaven since he was so sick, and our vet was helping him. Hazel was two and a half at the time. She referred to our vet's office as heaven for a short time. When we got our next cat and it came time to take her to the vet, Hazel was scared the cat might not come back home and might go to heaven as well. It is hard to know what to tell kids when it comes to death and especially the death of a loved one including pets. Today I get to share with you a book to help kids with the death of a pet. It is Óg go Deo: Forever Young by Chainy Blue. There is also a giveaway at the end of the post.
I am working my way through several young adult, middle grade and adult books. Today I get to share a riveting young adult mystery. It is perfect for the upcoming Pride Month (June) as it has many characters in the LGBTQ+ category. The book is Cold by Mariko Tamaki. It is recommended for ages 12+.
What do you believe about death? Is there an afterlife? Does death come to steal your soul? These questions are ones that may pop into your head as you read the book I'm sharing today. The book is a new fantasy novel recommended for ages 8 to 12. It is The Wolf's Curse by Jessica Vitalis.
