Graphic Novel Review: We Are Big Time

Aliya and her family moved from Florida to Wisconsin to be closer to family. There she and her siblings attend an all-Muslim school. She tries out for the school basketball team. Neither the girls' team or the boys' team is really any good. But Aliya and her new friends start working hard.

As they start winning games, a reporter writes a piece about the girls. The piece starts getting buzz. Soon more reporters want to interview the girls - asking about their religion and their uniform. How far will their talent and hard work take them?

My Thoughts: I've been waiting to read this book as I love books about basketball. I loved how Aliya started playing basketball for the school. I love how they didn't take the bait of the reporters - they focused on basketball. I enjoyed the hard work they put in. I loved the relationship the girls had with their coach. I love that she was not Muslin and that she tried to understand them too. I didn't want this book to end - I wouldn't mind seeing this book develop into a series for the next three years.

Cover Thoughts: Fantastic

Source: My Library

Library Recommendation: A must have book for your school and public library.

Review: Power of Flight

 

On a camp field trip, you tag along with your partner into an off-limits area. A bird scratches you and the next day you wake up with the power to fly.

You choose the path your take - will you be a hero or a villain or will you die?

My Thoughts: This reminded me of the Choose Your Own Adventure novels I read a lot as a kid. I liked the illustrations and how they added to the story. In the first time through the story, I came really close to a happy ending but I chose poorly on the last choice and died. But the choice was saving a dog, so...

This is a fun story to read together with a friend or sibling and see what choices you would make together. Because of the multiple storylines, you can read this book over and over until you choose the path that you like best. 

Cover Thoughts: I like the divide

Source: ARC sent for review

Library Recommendation: This is a great one for your school or public library collection.

Review: More to the Story

Jameela's excited when the newspaper advisor picks up as the new feature editor for the school newspaper. More than anything, Jameela wants to be an award winning journalist just like her grandfather.

But seventh grade is proving to be difficult. First her father's job takes him away from the family for six months. Then a draft of her article is printed instead of the real article - causing a new friend embarrassment.  The last straw is the news of her sister's illness.

Suddenly nothing matters and everything worries Jameela. She longs for life to return to normal.

My Thoughts: I love Little Women, so I was more than happy when this ARC came in the mail. And I loved this book; it perfectly captures the feel of Little Women - from the family dynamics, to the friendship with the boy, to Jameela's writing. Jameela's family is Muslim American. Ali, a family friend, arrives from England. I love their conversations about the differences between the two countries. I loved the bits about the newspaper. I loved Bisma's storytime and how that turned out. Of course, I cried at the ending. This book is such a heartwarming read.

Cover Thoughts: Charming
Source: ARC sent for review
Library Recommendation: Strongly recommended for your school and public libraries.

Review: Amina's Voice

Amina hates the spotlight; she has a hard time projecting her voice. Even though she loves music, Amina would rather stay in the background. But she at the age when everything starts to change.

Her best friend is just about to become a US Citizen and she's thinking of changing her name. Soojin wants a more American name. Amina can't imagine calling her best friend by another name. Emily starts hanging around both girls. Amina isn't interested in Emily's friendship but Soojin befriends her.

Amina's uncle is coming to stay with them for a time. He's stricter than her parents. His ideas make Amina nervous - especially the ones about music.

Music soothes Amina's soul. With all the changes in her life, it's the one thing that gives her joy. Especially after someone vandalizes their mosque. Can she use music to help her and other heal?

My Thoughts: I really enjoyed this book. I loved Amina's struggle to find her voice and her courage. I enjoyed the family dynamics. I really loved the Oregon Trail game - brings me right back to my childhood. I liked the food descriptions and the family celebrations. My heart broke when the mosque was vandalized. But I loved how the community came together to help. I really enjoyed the friendship moments between Soojin and Amina and the new friendship with Emily. 

Cover Thoughts: I love the colors. Enticing.
Source: My Library
Fun Fact: I read this for the shortlist of the Middle Grade Cybils Awards.

Library Recommendation: Grab this one for both school and public libraries!