The Maze of Bones

39 Clues: The Maze of Bones (book 1)
by Rick Riordan
(Grades 4-6)

Orphans Dan and Amy Cahill are in a race for their lives - against their own family members. When their grandmother Grace dies, she leaves in her will a choice: a million dollars or the first clue in a hunt for wealth and power beyond imagining. When Dan and Amy take the first clue they become the prime target of their evil cousins, aunts and uncles.

This global fast-paced adventure begins with a bang and doesn't stop. At this time 3 books in the series exist, but the other 7 are coming out in quick succession. It also looks like Steven Speilberg might be making the movie...

Click HERE to visit the related website.

Book 2: One False Note
Book 3: The Sword Thief
Book 4: Beyond the Grave (coming out June 2, 2009)

Reviewed by Korie B.

The Pencil by Allan Ahlberg

The Pencil by Allan Ahlberg
(Preschool - Grade 1)

Allan Ahlberg and Bruce Ingman are reunited in the whimsical The Pencil, a stand-alone sequel to The Runaway Dinner. The sequel opens with a "lonely little pencil" that decides to draw a boy for companionship. The boy instantly demands a name and a dog, and the pencil is happy to oblige. Our characters are off on a quirky adventure until they realize that their entire world is void of color. The pencil solves this supposed dilemma (and many more) with quick wit and hilarity. It can not seem to please everyone however, so the drama continues, much to the delight of my son who loved the child-like illustrations and mischevious characters. My son mentioned Harold and the Purple Crayon while we read, a compliment of the highest order.

To find this book in our library, visit www.newberglibrary.org

Reviewed by Amanda L., Children's Staff

Moonpowder by John Rocco

Moonpowder by John Rocco
(Kindergarten - Grade 2)

The Moonpowder Factory is on the fritz! Only one person can fix this terrible problem: Young Eli Treebuckle "fixer of all things fixable." Can he do it? Can he stop the nightmares he has every night? Will the world ever have sweet dreams again? The author's illustrations are vivid, colorful and very engaging. The journey Eli takes with Mr. Moon is a perfect read-aloud for parents and school-age children.

To find this book in our library, visit www.newberglibrary.org

Reviewed by Mary Lynn T., Children's Staff