Bad News for Outlaws: The Remarkable Life

of Bass Reeves, Deputy U.S. Marshal

by Vaunda Micheaux Nelson

Summary: Retells the life of Bass Reeves, a former slave who became a deputy U.S. Marshal in the Indian Territory and was exceptional at tracking down fugitives and bringing them to justice.

Vaunda Micheaux Nelson was given the American Library Association’s prestigious Coretta Scott King award for this book. This biography is a great read during Black History Month or during an unsung hero discussion. I like the notes in the back; especially the comment that this book appears to be a tall tale but is true. For this reason, young advanced readers or young listeners with a long attention span may enjoy this Wild West tale.

Interest Level: grades k-6
Reading Level: grade 6

My Mom Has X-ray Vision

by Angela McAllister

Matthew believes his mother has x-ray vision because she always knows what he's doing. So one day he decides to test his theory. What will he find out about his mother having super powers?

This is a comical story. The reader could make this a very interactive book simply by repeating, “How did she know that?”
Interest Level: ages 2-grade 3
Reading Level: grade 3

Once Upon a Royal Superbaby

Once Upon a Royal Superbaby

by Kevin O'Malley

Summary: Cooperatively writing a story for school, a girl imagines a king and queen who have a baby named Sweet Piper who can talk to birds, while a boy names the baby Sweet Viper and gives him super-strength, cool wrestling moves, and a motorcycle and sunglasses.

Though stereotyping boys’ and girls’ favorite types of stories, this book is humorous and creative.

Interest Level: ages 2-4, grades k-3

Reading Level: grade 5

Librarianjk recommends Hero Dad

Hero Dad

by Melinda Hardin

Summary: A child demonstrates that while Dad differs from a traditional superhero, as an American soldier he is a superhero of a different kind.

This simple story is appropriate for young children who ask about their fathers who are in the military. I think it would be a better story if it was about mothers in the military as well.

Interest Level: grades K-3
Reading Level: grade 4

Hedgie Blasts Off!

Hedgie Blasts Off!

By Jan Brett

Summary: When the spectacular, sparkling explosions at a popular tourist sight slow down, Hedgie the hedgehog is the only one capable of flying to the tiny planet Mikkop to see what is wrong.

This book is an unusual space story. If you like underdog stories, this book may be for you. Actually, the dogs are the big shots and the hedgehog is the metaphorical underdog.

Interest Level: grades K-3
Reading Level: grade 3