'Summer Reading'

Staff Picks: Young People’s Literature Enjoyed by All Ages, part 2 

Sure, there are enough books in the adult section to keep us well-occupied, but why not consider the special insights and adventures that can be found while reading young people’s books. Battles between good and evil, ghost stories, identity crises and more can be found in the titles that follow. Also, both Trish and Kelli mention enjoying fairy tales and international folktales.  You’ll find a great variety of tales in the 398.2 section in both the juvenile nonfiction section and in regular nonfiction as well.  

Happy reading! 

Trish enjoyed . . . 

The Hounds of the Morrigan  
by Pat Shea 

I discovered this book as an adult, but I know I would’ve also loved it when I was a kid, as one of my favorite sections in the library was the folklore, mythology and fairy tales from other lands. Great character development, humor, as well as the attraction of talking animals and Celtic mythology brings this book to life. The witches and hounds are deliciously dark, and Pidge and Brigit are brave, steadfast, and have a wonderful sibling connection. They receive the kind of magical gifts along the way that you dream of as a child, like a magical bow and arrow brooch that actually works when Brigit needs it. This book will appeal to mid-grade level readers through adult who enjoy fantasy. Author Pat Shea’s writings have been compared to the works of J.R.R. Tolkien, C.S. Lewis and Philip Pullman. 

The Hounds of the Morrigan is available via an Interlibrary Loan request 

Kelli suggests . . . 

Wildwood Dancing  
by Juliet Marillier  

Juliet Marillier has written some great adult fantasy, but this YA series was awesome. I loved fairy tales as a kid, and 12 dancing princesses was one of my favorites. This book captures the magic of that classic story while adding in all the juicy details I didn't know I missing. I highly recommend it for older teens or adults who love fairy tales. 

Find it in the library catalog Here 
Also available in digital format: 
Montana Library2Go eBook and eAudiobook 
Read more about the author Here 

 
Holly enjoyed . . . 

Jane-Emily 

by Patricia Clapp 

Do you like ghost stories? While spending the summer in an old Massachusetts house, an eighteen-year-old girl and her niece become increasingly aware of the presence of a spirit that seems determined to harm them. I loved reading this book when I was a tween. I remember reading it during summer vacation!
 

Jane-Emily is available via an Interlibrary Loan request 

Beth suggests . . . 

 
The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane 
By Kate DiCamillo 
 

I adore this book. Edward Tulane is a fancy-pants ceramic rabbit doll with much to learn. Kate Dicamillo has written some fabulous books and this short, but poignant novel will always be my favorite. A hero’s journey if ever there was one.  

Find it in the library catalog Here 
Also available in digital format: 
Montana Library2Go eBook and eAudiobook 
Hoopla eBook