Middle Grade Review: Out of Range

 

Abby, Emma, and Ollie have not been getting along lately. Their parents have had enough. They girls have been sent to camp this summer. But it's not your usual kind of camp. Instead, they go hiking for hours and are supposed to be learning discipline. 

But the prank war between the sisters hasn't eased up. If anything, it's gotten worse. 

On the last day of camp, when they are supposed to be packing up and heading back to civilization, the counselor has had enough. The three sisters and the counselor leave for a punishing hike. But the sisters and the counselor get separated. The three girls find themselves alone; they're going to need each other in order to survive. But can they put their differences aside? 

My Thoughts: I really love survival stories. This middle grade read was fantastic. Lots of action and danger from the survival portion but also lots of drama from the fights between sisters. All three sisters have reasons to be annoyed at the others, but those reasons are slowly built into the story. Each of the sisters has a perspective in the story and the timeline weaves back and forth between present day and the past. This was a great read.

Cover Thoughts: Perfect - I like how it leans into the danger

Source: My Library

Library Recommendation: Perfect for summer reading's theme. Highly recommended for your school and public library. 

Review: Dash of Dragon

Lailu graduated as a master chef and finally found someone to back her restaurant. Little does she know that her master made a deal with the devil in order for funding. Now he's come calling and Lailu learns the truth.

If they don't pay  back the loan within a year, they will lose the restaurant and also their freedom. Lailu is not about to let this happen, she'll do anything in power to stop it - even if it means spying for the elves or fighting dragons.

With the help from a friend and one rival, she comes up with a plan to make her restaurant filled with people. She hates depending on her rival for help, but she can't do it without him. Is her pride worth the sacrifice for her future?

My Thoughts: I really loved this book. I loved the banter between Lailu and Greg (her rival). It added humor to the story. I enjoyed the moments between Lailu and her fashion loving friend. I loved the world and understanding the hierarchy. I loved the mystery and the spying (along with with the action and danger of course.) I enjoyed the cooking parts, even if they were dishes I would never eat! I loved Lailu coming up with plans. I really hope there's a sequel in the works! 

Cover Thoughts: Love it!
Source: My Library
If you like:

Library Recommendation: Grab this one for your public library and school library!