Spring Reads

We asked TFK Kid Reporters to review some of the year’s best books so far. Here’s what they had to say.

The Astronaut’s Guide To Leaving the Planet

Have you ever imagined somersaulting through zero gravity and frolicking in a space station that you call home? Astronaut and mission pilot Terry Virts has actually done these things—and more! In The Astronaut’s Guide to Leaving the Planet, he paints a vibrant picture of life aboard the International Space Station. And he describes what it takes to conduct a successful mission. Young space enthusiasts will enjoy this guide. Aspiring astronauts will treasure it. —By TFK Kid Reporter Zarita Asgar

The Enchanted Life of Valentina Mejía

In this fast-paced adventure by Alexandra Alessandri, 12-year-old Valentina and her brother Julian are dragged along by their papi on a hunt for mysterious creatures. Falling into another world during an earthquake, they discover a different, magical Colombia. Valentina learns that all of the legends about her country are true. But will they be able to leave this realm and return home? This engrossing book will appeal to readers who enjoy fantasy, thrillers, and mythology. —By TFK Kid Reporter Shaivi Moparthi

Just Jerry

Just Jerry is a memoir by Caldecott Medal–winning author and illustrator Jerry Pinkney. He writes about growing up in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, during the 1940s and ’50s. Drawing was his refuge. Pinkney faced racial discrimination and struggled with dyslexia, but he always pursued his artistic calling. When he got a job at a newsstand, his boss gave him an opportunity to draw and sell his work. Pinkney was able to go to college to study art, and eventually built a career in publishing. Just Jerry is an inspiring read about a man who was one of the most celebrated artists of our time. —By TFK Kid Reporter Aiden An

Lasagna Means I Love You

In this touching realistic novel by Kate O'Shaughnessy, it has always been Mo and her spunky grandma, Nan, against the world. But after Nan dies, Mo’s uncle can no longer take care of her, and Mo goes into foster care. To deal with these changes, she starts cooking, using family recipes she collects from friends and through her food blog. There’s only one problem: She doesn’t have family recipes of her own. In her quest to define what really makes a family, Mo learns there’s no perfect recipe. —By TFK Kid Reporter Celsey O’Hare

The Moth Keeper

The Moth Keeper is a graphic novel by K. O’Neill. It tells the story of a young girl named Anya. She’s beginning her duties as the new moth keeper for her desert village. The Moon Moths help Anya’s community survive, and it’s her to job protect them. All alone, Anya keeps watch throughout the night. Will she be able to confront the challenges that come her way? Readers who like fantasy stories with colorful, dreamy illustrations will enjoy this book.  —By TFK Kid Reporter Shaan Glazer

Squished

Eleven-year-old Avery Annie Lee can’t find a moment’s peace. She’s crowded by her large and sometimes embarrassing family. It’s made up of seven kids and two parents. She has been asking for her own room, but her brother got his room first. If that’s not bad enough, she learns her family is moving across the country, away from the place she loves. Will it all work out for her? Squished is an exciting graphic novel by Megan Wagner Lloyd and Michelle Mee Nutter. Most kids will relate to Avery and enjoy this heartwarming story. —By TFK Kid Reporter Kellen Bhatt

Parachute Kids

Feng-Li, a Taiwanese girl, visits the United States with her family. But soon her parents must return to Taiwan. Feng-Li and her siblings are left behind. The kids suddenly become “parachute kids,” living in a foreign country without parents. They must take on new responsibilities. They face countless hardships. Their strength is tested under stress. Based on the author’s own experience, Parachute Kids, by Betty C. Tang is about overcoming challenges in a new world while caring for the people around you. Readers looking for a good laugh from a heartwarming graphic novel will love this book. —By TFK Kid Reporter Elisha Lee

The Many Fortunes of Maya

Maya J. Jenkins has many concerns about her life. Will she be honored with the MVP award at the soccer banquet and make the Chargers team? Will she manage to pass the swim test and be able to swim in the depths of the pool? Will her parents be reunited after a summer of living apart? The Many Fortunes of Maya, by Nicole D. Collier, chronicles the life of a 12-year-old as she makes difficult decisions. Readers will be able to relate to Maya in a variety of ways. She must make many hard choices. And she must come to understand what she truly wishes to do. —By TFK Kid Reporter Audrey Kim

The Grace of Wild Things

Grace is a young, orphaned, witch-in-training. She wants nothing more than a home and a loving family. She flees her orphanage and meets the mysterious old witch who lives in the woods. And she develops her magical powers. The Grace of Wild Things, by Heather Fawcett, is a beautifully written story about acceptance, love, and determination. It follows strong-willed Grace on her journey to find a home. Readers who enjoy books about magic and overcoming obstacles will find themselves unable to put down this book. —By TFK Kid Reporter Sarayu Bhumula

How To Make a Movie in 12 Days

Everyone could use a little more entertainment. That’s the message Hayley tries to spread in Fiona Hardy’s How To Make A Movie In 12 Days. Following the death of Hayley’s grandmother, the movie-loving middle schooler assembles her friends to make a film in her grandmother’s honor. But she soon discovers that someone has been trying to sabotage her plan. She must sniff out and stop the enemy before the premiere. This book is filled with heart and humor. It’s sure to be a hit with readers who typically enjoy movies more than books. —By TFK Kid Reporter Mason Langer