Nothing is Scary with Harry
Katie McElligott

What gives you comfort? In this story we are introduced to a comfort blanket named Harry. As Katie grows up, Harry grows thinner. The sweet ending reminds me of all the things we pass on to our children. This book is perfect for a little one who has a special stuffed animal or blanket. 

The Unteachables
Gordon Kerman

This humorous middle grade novel begins on the first day of school for Kiana, who is new but not planning on staying long. When she is not able to register properly, she finds herself in a self-contained special education class. We are introduced to her teacher and various students. I enjoyed the twists and turns of this book. My favorite transformation was that of the community of learners and the change that takes place in Mr. Kermit, their teacher who is just trying to make it to retirement.

Eleanor & Park
Rainbow Rowell

This YA novel is a high school love story that starts in slow motion but is high intensity throughout. It’s funny and tragic, often at the same time. Eleanor is an awkward misfit with a hellish family life. Park is half Korean: his family is loving but he’s always been a disappointment to his father. She’s forced to sit beside Park on the school bus. They don’t speak, but he notices that she’s reading his comic books. Gradually they realize that they have a lot in common, and then they become aware of each other with wit and adolescent fervor. It’s the old boy-meets-girl story, but very unusual because of their personalities and their differing situations. It’s a reminder that every love story is unique. I was expecting something gentler: with “Park” in the title I had a vague notion about the content that is way off. This stirring book is not for very young readers.