Whiteout

WC Mack

Steven has moved yet again to a new city. The one thing he takes with him everywhere is his love for snowboarding. In an attempt to fit in, Steven claims he's the cousin of the famous snowboarder Cody White. That rumour is soon debunked and Steven finds himself the prime target among peers. This is not the fresh start he had in mind. When he meets a mysterious stranger on the slopes, Steven soon discovers that he is one of his favourite snowboarders. Yet the budding friendship soon takes a nosedive, when, at the expense of their friendship, Steven goes out of his way to fit in at school.

Some books are great, quick reads. Whtieout is one such book. I found great pleasure in learning new snowboarding terms, hearing vivid descriptions of snow peaked mountains, and peering into one boy's life who lives for the slopes. I'm excited to recommend this to many young readers, particularly the sports inclined, potentially reluctant readers who are just looking for some fun book to whip through.

The Miscalculations of Lightning Girl

by Stacy McAnulty

Pub Date: May 1st, 2018

Lucy is a 12-year old girl and total math wiz—more like a literal genius. After she was struck by lightning, she acquired savant syndrome—a phenomenon where people take on amazing abilities and talents they did not have prior to a life-altering incident. For Lucy, it's an exceptional ability at math. She also has OCD, and while she's gotten by fine—restricting interactions have been easy since she's been homeschooled— her Nana now enrols her into middle school. Math is easy, but people are a whole different story. When a school project brings her closer to a pair of classmates, their budding friendship and mission to rescue animals will require Lucy to use her math genius, and face her greatest fears.

This is a fascinating tale rooted in in-depth research by the author. There was such ease to Lucy's voice, and I felt like I was really peering into the anxious mind of a middle-grader. I would have liked to know who and how Lucy was before her lightning strike. However, this a story about exceptionalism, which seems to be big in kid's lit following the huge success of Wonder. This is a perfect read for anyone looking for some great STEM books. Lucy is unapologetic about her genius, and uses it for a good cause. Animals, math, friendship and school: this a perfect summer read.

D'Aulaires Book of Greek Myths

A classic collection that illuminates stories of the gods, goddesses and heroes who defined Greek mythology. Beginning with Gaia—Mother Earth; tales of love, battle and magic unfurl on the large pages. Every chapter focuses on one character, or set of characters, and the prevailing dramas and tragedies of their life. The pages are accompanied with a large set of illustrations, either in full colour or sepia tone.

I fell in love with Greek mythology all over again! The gorgeous sunshine-yellow cover has always kept it on the peripheral of my books-to-read. The writing is clear and succinct. The author steers clear of detailing Greek mythology through this panoramic view showcasing a distant and confusing timeline. It is brought to life through the characters themselves. I found the illustrations extremely lacking. That being said, there is something comforting about their childlike feel— especially as the tales can be a bit dreary and intimidating, which would be further compounded if accompanied by classical paintings. I've wanted to read this collection for a long time, and boy, am I glad I did!