BOOKISH

A Not-So-Ordinary Book Discussion BY TIFFANY KILLOREN

WELCOME BACK … TO THE SCHOOL LIBRARY!

The kids might not want to hear the sound of the school bus making its way down the street, but parents everywhere are dancing a little gig that those little minds will soon be stimulated on a schedule once again. As a writer, my hope is that the library is one of the students’ favorite places to visit during the school day. To help with your children’s book selections, I’ve asked for some help from those who will soon be putting on that new backpack for their walk to the school bus.

Brooklyn, Age 9: Junie B. Jones Books (Barbara Park and Denise Brunkus, 1992, et seq.): I mean, who doesn’t love a Stupid Smelly Bus or a Little Monkey Business? Since 1992, the Junie B. Jones books have been connecting with young readers via this little girls’ exploits, hard life lessons, and shenanigans as she navigates kindergarten and her journeys in elementary school. We all had books from our childhood that made us laugh; my soft-spot memories include Amelia Bedelia and Ramona Quimby. It makes me happy to think that Junie B. Jones is bringing smiles to new generations and, with almost 30 books in the series, the joy can continue throughout the school year. (Recommended for ages 6-9)

Claire, Age 12: The One and Only Bob (Katherine Applegate and Patricia Castelao, 2022): A sequel to the ever-popular The One and Only Ivan, this tale follows Ivan’s friend, Bob, as he and his friends embark on an adventure that takes them to unexpected places. A sweet story about friendship, this book and its predecessor are grade school and middle school favorites among both students and teachers. And, if your young readers love these stories, make sure they check out Crenshaw on a trip to the school library, which is another Applegate novel. (Recommended for ages 8-12) Finn, Age 13: The Unwanteds Series (Lisa McMann, 2012): An engaging series of books for even the most reluctant reader, The Unwanteds series follows a 13-year-old boy who is separated from his twin during an annual designation of the Wanteds (identified as strong and intelligent) and the Unwanteds (creatives). Chosen by this 13-year-old because of its ability to hook readers quickly into the story, The Unwanteds seven-book series is a perfect ongoing literary saga to launch into a new school year and keep those readers reading. (Recommended for ages 8-12)

Max, Age 15: The Boy in the Striped Pajamas (John Boyne, 2007): An absolutely heartbreaking story about innocent souls caught up in a horrific time, this book follows the relationship that develops between two young boys—one the son of an SS commandant and the other a concentration camp prisoner. Heart-wrenching at its core, this is a story about how young hearts see the world and one another, and how we all should see the world. A must-read, Max considers this a book (and movie) that everyone should experience, even though it’s difficult. (Recommended for ages 12-17)

Tiffany Killorenis a local author and lover of the written word. Her novel, GOOD WILL, was released in 2020 and she is always thinking

of new stories to tell. Follow her at @readandthreads on Instagram for book and life musings as she tries to balance career, family and

her passion for writing one step - or word - at a time.

PHOTO BY MOLLY KUPLEN