Good Reads

We asked TFK Kid Reporters to read and review some of the season’s best books. Here’s what they had to say.

The Bridge Battle

The Bridge Battle, by Jacqueline Davies, is a story about kindness and determination. Evan is good at making friends. His sister, Jessie, is a science lover. When they wind up in the wrong places for the summer, will they stay true to themselves despite their circumstances? Readers who enjoy realistic fiction and humorous novels will love this book. —By TFK Kid Reporter Shaivi Moparthi

Buzzkill

Did you know that a cockroach can live 168 hours without its head? Buzzkill, by Brenna Maloney, is filled with amazing facts like this. Some readers might find these tidbits gross. But it’s important to know about the insects that share our planet. This informational book is for readers of all ages who want to learn more about these fascinating creatures. —By TFK Kid Reporter Kellen Bhatt

Children of Stardust

Zero dreams of becoming a Saba. He wants to be part of a guild of explorers who travel outer space in search of lost artifacts and criminals. He’s sent on a special mission. Along the way, Zero and his friends find danger and betrayal. In Children of Stardust, by Edudzi Adodo, readers are immersed in intergalactic adventure. They’ll learn that happiness can be as simple as the feeling of belonging. —By TFK Kid Reporter Elisha Lee

Freestyle

Cory Tan, in Gale Galligan's Freestyle, belongs to a dance group. The group is training for a big competition. But Cory’s grades start to suffer. So his parents hire a tutor, Sunna. One day, Cory finds her doing yo-yo tricks. He wants to learn some too. His friends are upset. Can they keep their dance dreams alive? Kids who like graphic novels will enjoy this story of friends working through challenges. —By TFK Kid Reporter Shaan Glazer

Frizzy

Marlene has frizzy hair. Her mom makes her straighten it. But Marlene wishes she didn’t have to change how she looks in order to be accepted. Frizzy, by Claribel A. Ortega, with illustrations by Rose Bousamra, is a graphic novel about having the confidence to overcome others’ expectations. Fans of books by Raina Telgemeier will enjoy Marlene’s journey. —By TFK Kid Reporter Sarayu Bhumula

A Million Views

Brewster Gaines is an energetic tween. He wants to be like his favorite YouTube stars and get a million views with one video. But Brewster comes to understand it doesn’t matter how many views your videos get. What matters is the crew you team up with to make those videos. A Million Views, by Aaron Starmer, focuses on friendship and the joy of life beyond the Internet. Readers won’t be able to put it down. —By TFK Kid Reporter Mason Langer

Odder

Odder is a sea otter. She loves to somersault in the ocean. After her mother is swept away by a storm, Odder is rescued. Eventually, her caretakers release her back into the wild. Then she meets a shark. She’s rescued once more. Will Odder ever see the ocean again? This book is by Newbery Medalist Katherine Applegate. It’s written in free verse. And it’s based on a true story. Anyone who loves animals should read it. —By TFK Kid Reporter Audrey Kim

A Rover’s Story

A rover named Resilience is determined to succeed on his journey to Mars and back. That’s what he was programmed for. But during assembly, he develops humanlike emotions. Will his feelings help him? Jasmine Warga's A Rover’s Story is a tale of space exploration. It’s told from the rover’s point of view. Science fiction and regular fiction lovers alike will appreciate this book. —By TFK Kid Reporter Zarita Asgar

Tangled Up in Nonsense

In Tangled Up in Nonsense, Sloane Osburn and Amelia Miller-Poe run a detective agency. They’re desperate for a new case. They find one at the Annual Ohio Peony Enthusiasts Competition. It’s held at a place called Tangle Glen. Supposedly, there’s $2 million dollars hidden at the mansion. Can Sloane and Amelia find it? Fans of mystery and suspense will enjoy this laugh-out-loud novel by Merrill Wyatt. —By TFK Kid Reporter Celsey O’Hare

Why Humans Build Up

Why Humans Build Up, by Gregor Craigie, examines famous skyscrapers, towers, and temples around the world. It also offers a deep dive into history. The book explains the many reasons people have chosen to build skyward. Photos and detailed illustrations add to the experience. This book is full of fun and interesting facts. It will hook readers, especially aspiring engineers. —By TFK Kid Reporter Aiden An