We Are All Made of Molecules (2015)

I was blown away by this affecting, hilarious, insightful book about a blended family told from two very different points of view.

Recommended grade level: 7-10

Pages: 256 (for ISBN 9780553496864)

Genre(s) and keywords: realistic, humor, Kylie’s favorites, Canadian author, international, North America (Canada)

Tone/Style: optimistic (Stewart), judgmental (Ashley)

Pace: fast

Topics: blended families, divorce, gifted students, popularity, homosexual parents, secrets, dating

Themes: grief and loss, change, self-acceptance, shame, true friends

Summary: Thirteen-year-old Stewart is academically brilliant, but socially clueless.  Fourteen-year-old Ashley is the undisputed “It” girl in her grade, but her marks stink.

Their worlds are about to collide when Stewart and his dad move in with Ashley and her mom.

The Story of Owen: Dragon Slayer of Trondheim by E.K. Johnston

This quirky modern dragon story is more about politics than fighting.

Recommended grade level: 6 and up for content, 8 and up for interest

Pages: 312 (for ISBN 9781467710664)

 Genre(s) and keywords: fantasy, modern fantasy, Canadian author, international, North America (Canada)

Tone/Style: sensible, humorous

Pace: leisurely

Topics: dragons, music, storytelling, rural communities, government programs, friendship, politics

Themes: truth vs. fiction, being born into a role vs. choosing it, defying tradition

Summary: Listen! For I sing of Owen Thorskard: valiant of heart, hopeless at algebra, last in a long line of legendary dragon slayers. Though he had few years and was not built for football, he stood between the town of Trondheim and creatures that threatened its survival.