Molly S.'s Reviews

Lora, an occult-obsessed 12-year-old, doesn’t want to grow up. She feels left behind as her friends trade make-believe for makeup. Then she befriends Alexa, a ghost from the ’70s. Lora’s coming-of-age story is quirky and relatable, while Alexa’s is touching and poetic. The drawings are energetic and whimsical, with panels bursting with life and margins decorated with doodles. This magic-infused tale is an excellent choice for readers who loved The Witch Boy, Ghosts, or The Okay Witch. — Molly

Julián is going to a wedding! At this “party for love,” Julián makes a new friend, Marisol, and discovers a fairy house in a willow tree. The stunning closing spread shows Julián and Marisol snoozing under Abuela’s shawl while the beautiful brides dance in the background. In this follow-up to Julián Is a Mermaid, Jessica Love treats us to a wonderland of florals, lace, and pastel finery. Those who adored the Julián picture book debut are sure to enjoy this fanciful romp. — Molly

Based on the documentary, A Place in the Middle, this book is an excellent introduction to Hawaiian gender traditions and the Polynesian third gender, Mahu. Watercolors, outlined with bold black ink, beautifully capture Ho‘onani’s strength and determination. Perfect for young readers interested in learning about other cultures, kids or parents questioning the gender binary, and classrooms looking to discuss how different societies conceptualize gender. - Molly S.

Bringing together 18 beloved children’s book illustrators, this picture book version of the iconic Sesame Street theme song is the perfect celebration of the show’s 50th anniversary. With such a wide array of visual styles, it welcomes all readers into America’s favorite neighborhood. Kids (and adults!) will love seeing some of Sesame Street’s most popular muppets, drawn in a host of different artistic styles, singing along to the familiar tune in this walk down memory lane. - Molly

During a trip to the market, Adam is separated from his parents and mistakes adults in a variety of cultural and religious garb for them. With minimal text, the pictures are given the story-telling power here, making this a great choice for younger readers, or as a jumping-off point for conversations about diversity. Backmatter explains the concept of clothing with religious and/or cultural significance and encourages readers to learn about other cultures and practice kindness and respect for all people. - Molly

Hilarity ensues when Ramsey and his Grandma battle a giant octopus that was supposed to be dinner. The representation of their Afro-Latinx family is warm and spirited and the details—like Ramsey’s tech-fluency and love of superheroes—make this feel like a first-hand account (which is confirmed in the author’s note about the family story the book is based on). Full of expressive faces, action-packed tableus, and a humorous ending, this one makes for an excellent family meal (or bedtime story). - Molly

This blend of historical fiction and selkie mythology packs a punch even greater than its cinematic adaptation, John Sayles’s film The Secret of Roan Inish. Young Fiona McConville has returned to the small cluster of Scottish islands to stay with her grandparents. When she sees Jamie—her younger brother who was lost at sea years before—alive and running about the abandoned island of Ron Mor, she is determined to reconnect with him. In language both poetic and practical, Fry captures the mystery and magic of the sea and the voice of the Scottish fishing families who call it home. Perfect for fans of Anne of Green Gables or Sarah, Plain and Tall. Ages 8–11. - Molly

To sell this book I always quote the first line: “It’s dark and gloomy, and it smells like dead sheep, but when Zeus says go to Hell, I go.” Ages 12 & up. - Molly

Given a sinister boarding school, an enigmatic guide (Mr. Benedict), and a team of heroic child prodigies, this bizarre adventure is a true delight. Ages 10 & up. - Molly