Season of Dragons by Nikki Mitchell

What would you do if you found a dragon egg at your bus stop? Ichabod Surname never imagined he’d be spending a Friday afternoon cross-country skiing with a grandma dragon—but that’s exactly what happens when he finds a giant egg on the way to school. For as long as he can remember, he has been at war with his siblings because he thinks outside of the box. He stays invisible at home and school, but for the first time in his life, he may be the key to restoring the weather and happiness in the village of Hasir. Can Ichabod and Gran fix what has gone awry and end the sibling war before Ichabod’s science teacher notices he is gone? --an enchanting fantasy about finding family, unexpected friendships, and the importance of being true to who you are.

Halloween Hunt: Paw prints and lucky charms by Melissa Gunn

Cleo's witch is sometimes a little scatterbrained, so it's just as well she has a cat to keep her in order. Cleo has her paws full making sure that her witch Elodie's do-it-yourself charms are worth the boxes they're packed in. Her witch isn't always the best flier, either, which makes living in a treehouse a little challenging. Elodie just needs to get her new batch of charms made, but her cat keeps interrupting the process: fighting with other cats, dislodging pumpkins and getting her claws into everything. But when Cleo and Elodie find a hunter and his hellhounds risking wildfire in the forest on Halloween morning, the cat and her witch have their work cut out to make sure the Wild Hunt doesn't bring terror to the nearby town.

The Night the Trolls Came to Town by Tim Kreher

The Night the Trolls Came to Town Arriving at a town called Emersonville to start a new life, junior high student Ben Bell notices two oddities right off the bat. One: the population sign does not match the actual number of residents. Two: the shops along Main Street are nearly vacant of life with many hosting 'Out of Business' signs. Upon meeting a crazed girl named Mindy and her conspiracy theorist friend Koji, Ben discovers there is more to the dwindling numbers than just the closing of a nearby mine. The duo is convinced it is the work of trolls, but Ben finds the theory of monsters hard to believe. That is, until a classmate crush disappears. With the help of his new friends, Ben is determined to find the missing student. Will they succeed or will they be added to the number of vanishing community members?

The Kry Chronicles by S.R. Arrkewey

In the annals of time and space, one phrase has echoed throughout the multiverse: "May the Kry be kind!" The countries of Remtaya and Kondoma are at war. Desperate for salvation, Remtaya seeks a Chosen One. Yet, the time of the Chosen Ones is over. Seth, an orphan with rare abilities and an unfortunate past, goes to the Castle Wall of Remtaya to become a scientist. But as he studies, catastrophe strikes, and his world is thrown into a whirlwind of fear and danger. Fate is fickle, and something beyond evil is scheming. The Kry are watching! The Kry Chronicles is an exciting new middle grade epic fantasy journey filled with magic, adventure, and powers beyond comprehension. Perfect for fans of Leven Thumps, A Series Of Unfortunate Events, Harry Potter, and Mistborn.

Buddy the Knight and the Queen of Sorrow by Peter David

Buddy is no ordinary teddy bear. He’s a Knight, crafted by The Nameless Wizard himself, and sworn to protect his Person, 10-year old Mieya, from all the Things-That-Go-Bump-In-The-Night. When Mieya is cursed into a magical sleep, it’s up to Buddy and his friends Esteban the Bard, Sasha the Warrior-Princess, and Copper the Butterfly to journey across The Realm-Under-The-Bed and find the one responsible. But this is no ordinary Quest. The Realm is a dangerous place, filled with jungles, deserts, lightning storms, and Monsters. But worst of all is The Queen of Sorrow who waits for them in her dark castle in the crags. To break her curse, Buddy will need more than his skill with a blade, Esteban’s witty songs, or Sasha’s ferocious might.

Squeak by D.A Power

10-year-old Celeste Asher is as shy, quirky, and awkward as they come. After her mother remarries and moves her away from her friends, she finds herself alone and targeted by local bullies known as The Beastly Trio. If that isn't bad enough, her new stepfather is her fifth-grade teacher. One day, using courage she didn't know she had, Celeste rescues a mouse from being tortured by the same bullies who torment her. Her unexpected bravery is the spark that causes her fellow students to take a second look at the quiet new girl. Her awkwardness is multiplied by an unusual new friend and newly discovered ability- both of which she has no choice but to keep secret. This coming-of-age tale, set in 1984, is about a young girl who, with help from a special "little" friend, learns to stand up for herself, develop confidence, make friends, and bond with her stepfather. Squeak is the first installment of The Asher Chronicles.

Arikala Academy: A Wave of Courage by Jacob Ryckman

Courage is the most powerful magic of all. At eleven years old, Cassidy Farron knows two things for sure: that her time at Arikala Academy, the magical school for gifted youngsters, will be the best ever; and that everyone in her family has ALWAYS been placed in House Sword. But after a disastrous first day ends in Convocation being attacked and she's placed into House Shield, Cassidy finds that she has to reevaluate her expectations. After all, why would somebody want to attack such a wonderful place? Determined to prove her worth and get to the bottom of things, Cassidy will team up with an orphaned spellcaster and a tech genius to uncover the mysteries surrounding themselves and the school. But some secrets might be better left alone…

The Hidden World of Kaishi by N.R. Wolfman

Lilah always heard her grandfather's stories growing up, talking about a magical world he used to visit known as Kaishi. A world where animals had magical abilities, but that was plagued by a darkness known as the Shadow Beast who destroys everything he touches. After his death, Lilah inherits the key to Kaishi and has to finish the battle that her grandfather never did. With her friends by her side, can she defeat the Shadow Beast and restore order to the hidden world?

Skylight by Patchree Jones

For fans of Hayao Miyazaki, this middle-grade novel welcomes you to an immersive Thai fantasy where twelve-year-old best friends Sofia and Cara explore the boundaries of family, friendship, and learning to forge your own path. Sofia Luana longs to fit into her Colorado hometown. Constantly bullied by her classmates, who see her as an outsider, Sofia only has her best friend, Cara Felicity, for support. When Sofia's parents suddenly decide to move to California, her only hope is Cara, who says her family's moving there, too. On their plane ride halfway across the country, Sofia and Cara see a magical door in the clouds. The girls soon find themselves in a new land filled with a shapeshifting octopus, winged warriors, and the exiled sorceress Muet starting a war to take the throne. With her best friend, Sofia must learn to embrace her royal Mehk lineage, figure out who can be trusted, and find the courage to make her own decisions to end the war--or else Muet and her Night Army will extinguish Sofia's skylight forever.

Fiona and the Forgotten Piano by Kate DeMaio

Eleven-year-old Fiona isn’t allowed in the Fermata woods. And though its unique trees are fascinating, Fiona has no problem following her mother’s rules... until the trees begin to sing. Suddenly, it feels as though long forgotten memories are being unlocked in Fiona’s mind. As she nears the woods edge, the trees fall silent, so silent even the leaves stop rustling. Fiona will finally break the rules and venture into the woods. She’ll soon find herself traveling through portals to undiscovered worlds. And she’ll have to trust her instincts and her quirky new friends to bring back the music or she may get lost within its notes.

Black Brilliance by Dr. Joel Anthony Hamilton

The unheard ancient Egyptian tale of Aqil, the great musician and scientist. It was luck, or rather, fate that he stumbled upon a cursed microscope; stolen from the god Thoth himself. It gave him the power to see something no man had seen before: DNA. Aqil had the unusual gift of seeing DNA as music, could apply his knowledge of science, and performed miracles by playing his Egyptian ney; miracles that could replicate or even mutate DNA. Whispers spread that he could heal the injured, cause life-threatening afflictions, and cure the sick. Rumors also spread that he could change a frog into a fish and a mouse into a snake. Others say he could turn a human into a demon, or even a god. The truth to the rumors was unknown. However, one thing was certain. Any person who peered into the microscope was placed under a heavy curse. Aqil was often given difficult tasks, having to rely on his mind to keep himself, and others alive. When asked to do the impossible, he had to utilize his brilliance to combine his musical abilities, his knack for science, and the cursed microscope to perform miracles. His story will be heard across the world. However, pray you never hear the distinct melody of his prized instrument, his Egyptian ney, for that would mean one of two things. You could be in earshot of him performing a miracle, or you could be the target. Some have very different perceptions of what a miracle is.

Your Brain The Engine to Your Body - Kid's Edition by Tracy L Markley

It is fun to plant your own garden and watch it grow too. Eating fruits and vegetables fresh from the garden is an extra healthy thing to do.

Tales of Weirderland: The Collected Volumes by Kyle Steenblik

Immerse yourself in the captivating realm of Weirderland, where the courageous royal siblings embark on six mesmerizing short stories of fantastical adventures. Join them as they defend their magical kingdom, growing in strength and wisdom with each exhilarating journey, unraveling life's mysteries along the way. In 'The Quest for Ruben,' the royal Wilding siblings must rescue a flying horse from the clutches of an evil dragon. Next, in 'The Quest for the Mermaid's Ruby,' they heroically safeguard a mermaid kingdom from imminent destruction while on a beach holiday. Then, in 'The Quest of the Fairy Fire,' they are called upon by the King and Queen to restore the magic of the forest's fairy guardians, safeguarding all humankind. In their most challenging quest, 'The Hopeless Quest,' they selflessly venture into the underworld to seek aid for their ailing grandfather from the Dwarves. Finally, 'The Luck of The Eyelash' and 'The Nameless Quest' lead them on individual journeys of self-discovery, to learn who they truly are and what the future might hold. Experience the magic and adventure as the royal heirs navigate perilous challenges, forging their destinies in a world brimming with wonder and excitement.

The Phoenix and the Firebird by Alexis Kossiakoff & Scott Forbes Crawford

A bullet-riddled train staggers into the station, delivering an ominous message that will change Lucy Markov’s destiny: her father, a Russian officer, has been kidnapped. A refugee who lost so much before she found a home in China, Lucy refuses to lose her last remaining family. Guided by a mysterious feather, she must cross into a realm of magic and monsters to find him. Lucy’s quick-witted, spirited friend Su joins her quest. Following the clues, they discover a warlord commanding an army of human soldiers and magical beasts has seized Lucy’s father – and now plots to invade their city. To save her father and their home, Lucy and Su must confront the criminal underworld, cross a haunted forest, and outsmart creatures they thought lived only in fairytales. With each step closer to the warlord’s lair, dangers test their courage and their bonds to each other. Will they unlock the secrets of the feather in time? The Phoenix and the Firebird melds the turmoil of 1920s China with the majesty of Slavic and Chinese myth. Join Lucy and Su as they soar into a world woven from history and folklore, and learn whether friendship is the strongest weapon of all.

The Beaver Prince by Moth Hegel

A fairy tale about a young prince who finds himself changed into a beaver after disappointing a local fairy. This story contains themes of responsibility and willingness to learn from others.

The Tenacious Tale of Tanna the Tendersword by Dewey Conway & Bill Adams

SPFBO10

Galdifort Quillpen has grand dreams of writing epic tales of heroic deeds, just like his famous aunt. Unfortunately, he’s been assigned to Tanna the Tendersword, an excruciatingly carefree would-be-champion who can’t seem to find a qualifying entry-level quest. When things are at their most miserable, the young Questers meet an enigmatic old woman who offers Tanna a quest: follow a peg-legged, sword-wielding rooster to help save a crying mushroom lost within a haunted forest. Tanna heroically accepts, regardless of how incredibly unsafe the odd quest seems. But Galdifort’s fears become reality when a sorceress sends her fog monster and lizard henchmen after them. Only a true Champion should confront a sorceress, and, in his eyes, Tanna is not up to the task. But if he wants to write his chronicle, Galdifort must learn to do something he certainly isn’t comfortable doing — trust in honest friendship with Tanna the Tendersword. He’s just a chronicler, after all, not a hero!

DreamRealm Unleashed by Sahasra Nistala

Twelve-year-old Tara is good at one thing and one thing slaying her enemies. You know, in a video game. DreamRealm is a kids-only haven for young gamers, and it’s the reason Tara simply hasn’t had time to mourn her sister. But she can’t ignore everything else, like the fact that her childhood friend is now an unbearable enemy, or that her GPA is sinking lower than her self-esteem. Just when it seems life can’t get any worse, DreamRealm is released from virtual containment, trapping all the adults in an alternate dimension. To get the world back to normal, Tara and her friends must embark on a monster-filled quest across San Francisco and rack up enough points to get to the top of a global leaderboard. Enter the Minors Establishing A New Order of Society, a teen-run organization that doesn’t want the adults to return. When Tara learns that the MEANOS’ leader caused the car accident that killed her sister, it’s game on. Hungry for revenge, Tara vows to beat the MEANOS to the finish line. She fights giant dragons, finds treasure, and heroically fends off teens (they’re smellier than the dragons, that’s for sure). With the help of her neighbors, a kid who runs a magic arcade, and her actually-not-so-bad frenemy, she gets closer and closer to finishing the mission. But as her inner boss battle looms, she must come to terms with her past before she’s captured—or else, it’s game over.

Sing to Me of Rain by E.B. Dawson

An innocent naiad. A wounded boy. An adventure that will change their lives forever. Plip is a naiad of the Great Waterfall, destined to one day sing the songs that send rain out into the world. Akino isn’t destined for anything but trouble. His father long gone, his mother working on a plantation far away, he doesn’t really belong in the village below the Waterfall. And the villagers don’t let him forget it. When Akino convinces Plip to travel down the mountain with him, for his own selfish purposes, he launches them into a world more dangerous than either of them could imagine. A world where people are not always what they seem and the rain does not fall evenly across the land.

The Ghost in the Garden by Alisse Lee Goldenberg

Twelve-year-old Sophie Madison has no idea what she's in for when she moves from the big city of Calgary to Stratford, Ontario. And she misses her friends, her apartment, and all her favorite places. Although her parents found a beautiful house with a bedroom she loves, none of them knew it was full of secrets and surprises. When a young girl keeps lurking in the back garden, she begins to suspect her new home is haunted.

Tales of Mundane Magic: Volume One by Shaina Krevat

Nothing too strange ever happens to Gertie and Bridget Mallon. The sisters don’t have magical adventures fighting off dark lords or saving the world. Gertie spends her time learning the skill of enchantment, and Bridget has the ability to see things no one else can see with her left eye, which was bewitched in an accident many years ago. Sure, they attend Flories Boarding School, where Gertie takes a potions class and Bridget plays basketball, and the occasional magical anomaly takes place, but who doesn’t deal with the occasional poltergeist or curse? Life is relatively calm for the Mallon sisters, but things might not be quite as mundane as they appear.

Ransom by E.R. Yatscoff

"A real page-turner, I couldn't put it down." - Alberta Writing for Youth Competition Three friends face off against a rival gang in a suspenseful story of integrity, bravery, and friendship in a territorial battle. Out manned, out-sized, and outsmarted, they attempt to turn the tables. It totally backfires. They are shocked when Big Bill, their strongest and bravest, is captured and held for ransom by the imposing Fat Harold and his gang. How far will they go to rescue a friend?

Avalon: A Heartwarming True Cat Story by Vanessa Morgan

Some cats need nine lives to make a difference. Avalon only needed one. From Amazon bestselling author Vanessa Morgan, Avalon is the heartwarming and once-in-a-lifetime love story of a girl and her neurotic Turkish Van cat. With humor, the author details how Avalon made other creatures cringe in distress whenever he was around, how he threw her dates out by means of special techniques, and how he rendered it almost impossible for her to leave the house. Avalon was so incorrigible that even her landlord ordered her to get rid of him. But beneath Avalon’s demonic boisterousness, Vanessa recognized her own flaws and insecurities, and she understood that abandoning Avalon would be the worst she could do to him. Thanks to her unswerving loyalty, Avalon transformed into a tender feline, and even landed a major role in a horror movie. In turn, Avalon made it his mission to be there for his human companion. Avalon is a memoir for anyone who has ever been obsessively in love with a pet.

Akasha (Cats of Catarau Book 2) by Sandra Cox

Akasha is a pretty little calico who, along with two of her kittens, has drowned and passed on to Catarau. Now she must journey back to earth to save the kitten left behind.

Archie's Gold by E.R. Yatscoff

“A spellbinding juvenile mystery novel that is sheer magic." - Michele Rooney Literary Agency “…I was charmed by Archie.” – The Rights Factory Twelve year old Archie Crane has a dream to be reunited with his estranged father. Shining shoes in front of a hotel in a tough blue-collar town is the only way, but it'll take a lot of nickels and dimes for a bus ticket. Shining shoes is his first job and it's not easy fending off drunks and cheats. Archie has developed a tough exterior working the streets, but inside he’s just a lonely kid who seeks his father’s love. Archie doesn’t like his school and the kids at school don’t like him. His only friends are an old ex-vaudeville entertainer, Freddie Fox, a secretive Indian, Lyle Raintree, and Ma Belasky, a mysterious gypsy woman who runs the local café, a hangout for ex-cons and riff-raff. The mean streets get a whole lot meaner when Boogy, rink rat and bully, is determined to wrest the shoe-shine spot away from Archie by any means. After Boogy pushes him into traffic, Archie awakens in the hospital with two detectives at his bedside, very curious as to how a stolen gold coin ended up in his money can. One stolen gold coin is a curiosity, but when he stumbles upon 42, his simple world is turned upside down. The two cops catch gold fever, determined to find all the coins. Caught between holding stolen items and finding a trustworthy person to turn the gold into cash proves to be fraught with danger. As the walls begin to tumble and the police close in, Archie's hope of rejoining his father may only be a dream.

In the Spirit of Christmas by William Beck

All the warmth and cheer of Christmas can't thaw a frozen heart. To some, Christmas is a time of family and love. Moments to cherish and joy to share. But not for Ebenezer Scrooge. After the tragic loss of his wife Marley, Christmas has become a beacon to grief, and a life long since lost. This Christmas Eve, his wife will return. But, will Ebenezer have the strength to confront a painful past in order to save a once-promising future?

Wizards of the Apocalypse: The Forgotten Prophecy by X Zombie

SOMETHING IS CREEPING IN THE DARK… Tristan Skeleton's life is already busy. Being the king of Skeletonia is no effortless task. With zombies roaming the earth and the human population reduced to villages, Tristan's plan is clear: protect and survive. Surrounded by strong castle walls, security seems easy. That is until four uncanny zombies break into the Skeletonia library. After the break-in, Tristan discovers the undead have been developing their skills beyond their lethal bites. They're learning to read, wield weapons, and even use magic. Tristan and his friends soon learn that Malice, a dangerous demon, is assembling her army of zombies, and it’s up to them to stop her before she conquers what’s left of the world. They must find the hidden Apocalypse Grimoire, which holds the key to Malice's defeat. But to do so, Tristan must cope with his forbidden powers.

Warriors of the Suburbs by Tim Kreher

Micas was ready for the summer of his life, going to computer summer camp with his friends for the first time. But then, strange events began to unfold, starting with the disappearance of his beloved uncle, a local university professor. Soon, he would realize this would be anything but a typical summer. Upon his search for his uncle, Micas and his friends discover unusual objects, showcasing elemental powers that beckon them into a trance. Waking from his daze, Micas began seeing a mysterious fox, but there was more to this creature than appearance. The red furred animal was luring him to another world. Will he be able to escape this treacherous new land and find his way back, or remain there forever hunted by sinister stone-like beings?

Santa Claus: The Beginning by Terry Broxson

On Christmas Eve 1839, an extraordinary young toy maker named John Nicholas is visited by his angelic best friend Ben and their mentor, Mr. Rudolph Stern. The angels present John with a mission: to embrace the role of Santa Claus and bring joy to children worldwide. Follow John as he encounters magical elves and meets Jessica, the manager of Santa's castle at the North Pole. Experience the excitement of Santa's first global trip on Christmas Eve, 1840, as the story reaches its heartwarming conclusion. This enchanting tale unveils the origins of a talented toy maker, his special abilities, the loyal reindeer by his side, and the devoted friendships that shape his destiny. Suitable for all ages, this classic story is a delightful adventure filled with magic, imagination, and the spirit of Christmas.

Worth His Salt by Dr. Joel Anthony Hamilton

Where is salt? It pumps through your veins, dusts your fingertips in the drive-thru, and has seeped into that comforting bite of your favorite childhood meal. Surprisingly, salt is not in the earth’s crust, not anymore. Centuries of overharvesting, spurred by human gluttony and the food industry, have depleted every source of salt beneath the surface. To make matters worse, global pollution has become so severe that other sources of salt, like seawater, have become too toxic to ingest. The Armageddon that ensued would convince you the world was at war or a zombie apocalypse had begun. This lasted until Pillars, mysterious human-like creatures made entirely of salt, suddenly appeared in one country. The government seized this opportunity to reignite their economy, spurred by powerful food companies, and gathered them into salt farms. The country’s profits and standing in the world blossomed with this newfound resource. In order to keep this momentum, it became law to turn every Pillar into the government. However, one small restaurant defied this order when they agreed to hide a water-bottle-sized Pillar named Geo. They risk their careers, families, and very lives keeping him hidden from random inspections, salt hounds, and Inspector Hans. To save their future, all it takes is a phone call to turn him in and obtain their monetary reward. To keep him concealed takes a sacrifice few are willing to make anymore. They weigh these choices each day and must decide if he is truly worth his salt.

Sue B and the Ridders by Melissa Ruth Rotert

Susan Michelle Beezly has a pest problem. In fact, Sue B has such a pest problem that she wonders if there isn’t some sort of exterminator who specializes in little siblings and brazen bullies. By day she's tormented by Barnaby T. Plumbol, an addle-brained oaf. By night, her nuisance takes the form of four-and-a-half-year-old Jessie Jess, oppressor to sisters and dolls alike. When a mysterious new janitor appears at her school and offers to help her with her problem, Sue B discovers that banishing her pests to the strange magical world of the Ridderlands doesn’t give her the relief she had hoped for. Instead, she’s riddled with guilt as she watches the world erase the memories of her foes. Sue B must figure out what’s truly important in order to rescue her pests from the Pterosaur-like creatures who carried them away and find it within herself to bring them home.

Joy and the Intergalactic Librarian by Alex Idris Thomas

SPSFC 2023

Joy Pritchard is scared of the black dog that lives inside her dad. It’s not a real black dog of course, she looked in his mouth once to check. But it makes him very sad and angry a lot of the time. So when she discovers someone who can help, she leaps at the chance. The only problem is that someone is an alien psychiatrist called Larson Wix who has lost his memory. Oh, and he’s also trapped inside a book. Also did I mention the book is being hunted by mysterious alien forces intent on destroying the book and anyone who knows about it? Luckily Joy has some help in the form of a short grey space librarian called Steve (a strange name for an alien I agree). With him she goes on a desperate adventure to the Great Space Library meeting many friends and enemies on the way. Will Joy discover the secrets hidden inside the ancient book and the key to helping the black dog in her dad?

The Pastel Grand Prix by Skyler Krenn

Together, they'll paint the town.When thirteen-year-old Alec learns about the annual bike race that combines racing with art, he's expecting a fun new experience. What he isn't expecting is Damian, the lanky, curly-haired boy who helps him out of his shell and becomes his first real friend. With Damian's help, Alec aims for first prize -- and learns some surprising things about himself along the way.

Beyond The Falling Snow by Qualia Reed

Wizards of the multiverse unite! Across the 100 worlds of the grand multiversal empire, magic and steampunk technology exist in a fragile balance maintained by a brutal and powerful emperor. In an isolated, northern village, young Sigir's life takes an unexpected turn when a thief steals his late father’s pocket watch. Fueled by determination to recover his precious family heirloom, Sigir is aided by an enigmatic fugitive and his father’s magical robot. Together, the trio embark on a journey across the multiverse to recover what was stolen from them. As the mystery surrounding the thief deepens, Sigir finds himself drawn into events that threaten the safety of the entire empire. Beyond the Falling Snow is a tale of chosen family, and the journey of all who grow up in a rapidly changing world.

Ghosts of Mars: Adventures of Eva Knight by Stuart White

SPSFC 2023

The first book in the award-winning, space adventure series for children age 9+, and fans of Vashti Hardy, AF Steadman, and Christopher Edge. ★★★★★ "Simply brilliant" - LoveReading ★★★★★ “A thrilling, edge-of-the-seat ride for all space loving adventurers!” Vashti Hardy, Author of Brightstorm ★★★★★ “I loved this book – not only as a type 1 diabetic – but as a fan of brilliant middle-grade stories. Perfectly paced, hugely imaginative and wildly exciting, I predict readers will adore Eva and this stunning space adventure.” AF Steadman, Author of Skandar and the Unicorn Thief Mars. 2045. 13-year-old Eva, the first Martian, will risk everything to save her dad. Fame, Type 1 diabetes and a sarcastic AI companion haunt her, but when her dad goes missing on the red planet, she must overcome the 'Ghosts of Mars' to save him. The Martian for middle-grade, full of science, friendship and adventure. With a Type 1 Diabetic main character, Ghosts of Mars explores how life beyond Earth, and the fame and scrutiny that come with it, affects the young people involved, who didn't sign up for life on Mars. Ten percent of author profits go to Diabetes UK.

Legend of Samantha Torres by Jacob Ryckman

For twelve year-old Samantha Torres, her Type 1 diabetes used to just be a frustrating nuisance - one more thing for her mother to tell her she wasn't being responsible about. But when her cruise ship crashes on a mysterious jungle island and separates her from her family, managing that chronic illness becomes a struggle for her life. Luckily, she receives some help from a 3,000 year-old woman named Belby, who claims that Samantha's powers indicate that she is supposed to protect the island from intruders. Specifically, she has to stop a bunch of creepy zombie-people - who most likely have kidnapped her mom - from reaching the magical tree at the center of the island. With just a single bottle of insulin, some awesome gravity-bending superpowers, and a quippy attitude, Samantha is guaranteed to succeed and prove to her mom once and for all that she can be responsible. After all, putting yourself in harm's way to fight a bunch of bad guys is super responsible…right?

Bad Grains by Susanne Schmidt

SFINCS

Eleven-year-old Jo loves Halloween and all things horror, but she doesn't believe anything bad could ever happen in Fels, her small German hometown. When Hektor, her annoying older brother, disappears on his way home from school, Jo assumes he is playing a prank on her. But then both her father and grandma forget Hektor's name, and his stuff mysteriously disappears from his room. With the adults of no help whatsoever, Jo starts an investigation of her own, uncovering an old legend that has haunted the children of Fels for centuries. A monster lives in the rye fields, and draws children into its world under the roots. With two days until the gate between their worlds closes, and only Hektor's obnoxious best friend to help her, Jo must figure out a way to rescue her brother, or lose him forever.

The Elinormal Saga by Kate McCarroll Moore

In Elinormal, her bossy mom threatens to sue if Elinor is not granted a spot in a prestigious ballet academy. The problem is, Elinor has no interest in ballet. While sitting out the first class in an area park she meets Indira who helps her realize that she is a capable and kind individual. Elinor opens up and makes a friend at school who enjoys all the same things she does. The people in her life finally converge-secret identities are revealed, and Elinor has an epiphany about the nature of relationships and the power of love. In New Girl: The Further Adventures of Elinormal, Elinor is ready for the first day of seventh grade when a last-minute phone call turns her world upside down. She misses the first week of school and when she gets back she's called "the new girl" even though she's not. Elinor quickly learns that people are complicated and relationships take work. Lots of work. As she discovers who she is, who she wants to be, and what she wants most in life, she struggles to balance friendships, both old and new, while also unraveling her mother's mysterious past. Both of these delightful books explore the complexity of friendships, the reality of disappointments, and the trouble with secrets.

The Fateful Curse by Kirsten Hardin

Chryssa, a fairy, lives in a realm called Fairborn. She has a comfortable life … until she’s summoned to break a curse on Astra, a young human girl. Tensions quickly grow, as Chryssa despises all humans. And the effects of the curse are worsening. Will Chryssa complete her task? Or will Fairborn go to war with the human world?

Inspirisles by Hatchling Games

Experiencing visions of a mythical land throughout childhood, you are guided to a kingdom ruled by the fae. Responsible for a pact made long ago by your ancestors, Arthur & Guinevere Pendragon, you must now earn Belief and the respect of their gods to secure your ticket back home. INSPIRISLES is a completely original all ages Tabletop RPG promoting storytelling, empathy and Deaf awareness with an emphasis on cooperation. - Play as teens gifted extraordinary powers. - Meet famous characters and fearsome creatures from Celtic folklore. - Work together to heal an ailing land and restore a fractured kingdom. - Learn British and American sign language as you cast spells, solve puzzles and battle monsters. This project came about after running my teen Dungeons & Dragons group Hatchlings for over a year. I wanted to create something for them, something they could have a hand in building, and something I could take beyond the group to use in schools and communities as a workshop tool. Inspirisles is the result of this: a game for all ages that reflects my interest in mythology and my ongoing work with the Deaf community. With Inspirisles, we are especially encouraging parents, educators and tabletop beginners to invest in our game. Many of us have fond memories of 80s fantasy classics such as The NeverEnding Story & Labyrinth. Inspirisles aims to capture some of that nostalgic magic and transport its older participants back to a more carefree and imaginative time. Inspirisles features a unique system we have called Shaping. It allows participants to engage with Deaf culture and learn sign language (ASL and BSL included). It also forms the dice mechanic at the heart of the game, where our Pendragons will wield the elements to fight Disbelief (our negative force) and heal the World Tree. Inspirisles encourages teamwork at every turn. Only by Shaping can the party overcome the tests of our game. Belief Barriers are non-combative tests where our Pendragons must think up ways their elements can solve puzzles. Disbelief Battles are combative tests, where our Pendragons must pit their elements against a dangerous opponent.

An Echo of the Fae by Jenelle Leanne Schmidt

Echo enjoys the peace and solitude of the Faeorn forest, regardless of how strange spending time in the "haunted" wood seems to others. But on the cusp of her thirteenth birthday, the discovery of a family secret reveals why Echo has never been drawn to the sea like her mother. This discovery shakes the foundations of her world and sends Echo on a quest, not merely into the forest, but into the heart of the fae-lands themselves, to rescue the sister she didn't know existed. Elves, dragons, and fairy courts will put Echo's wit and resolve to the test. But with time running out for her sister, will Echo even be able to save herself? A fairytale adventure perfect for fans of The Secret of Roan Innish and The Girl Who Drank the Moon.

Aboard the Timeline by Bastian Gregory

Aboard the Timeline It's the story of a bored boy, Pete who doesn't find anything interesting at school. One day he becomes so bored, and time stands still and he escapes to Outermind. Here he befriends various living beings in different worlds, and along the way becomes aware of a constant conflict going on in these different lands. Ultimately, Pete is asked to make a difference, and the question is whether he is up to the task? Anyone who has a passion for words and wordplay will enjoy reading “Aboard the Timeline” In this wonderful children’s book , Bastian takes us on an adventure with his main character Pete, a young boy who at first seems to be lost (in many more ways than one!) but who ultimately finds his way together with the help of his companions, the lovely dinosaur Reginald and the ancient Greek thinker, Philosophocles. Bastian manages to keep the reader engaged page after page, with clever puns and witty plays on words, which makes his story even more entertaining. Here is a quote from a teacher on Amazon: “My 10 year old son and I read this together and we both really enjoyed it. Redolent of Salman Rushdie’s Haroun and the Sea of Stories/Luka and the Fire of Life plus Walter Moers’ Captain Bluebear series, it’s a consistently chuckleworthy, highly imaginative, multi-layered yarn that carried us wackily along its narrative tracks from start to finish. There’s a great cast of characters - from a doddery old dinosaur to an ebullient Ancient Greek philosopher (“Philosophocles”) to some suitably dastardly demons - and the illustrations, which perfectly complement the text, are great fun too. Highly recommended!”

Toby's Tale by Jennifer Freedman

Toby’s Tale is a story of strength, perseverance and love. Toby is a Schnauzer puppy who selflessly leaves his family and embarks on a great adventure as he seeks his forever home. He learns about friendship, loyalty and kindness, but he also experiences cruelty and hopelessness. Toby’s Tale is full of colorful characters — both two-legged and four-legged — who play key roles as Toby takes each step of his journey. Traveling with Toby on his journey to adulthood is an excursion along life’s road; a trip that shows how all creatures are searching for the safe, secure place where they belong. With that goal in mind, Toby overcomes hardship and loneliness by finding an inner strength stemming from the values of family, friendship, loyalty and faith. Toby’s Tale is a learning experience shared in a visionary, fun way with valuable lessons about life. It’s a story about hard choices. An adventure that gives people four legs instead of two, by allowing them to view life through the eyes of a dog. A tale about belief, tenacity and love. As your fingers run through the pages, Toby will run through your heart.

River of Crows by N.P. Thompson

SPFBO10

Ty Baxter just wants to survive seventh grade without dying of boredom or getting flattened by the school bully. But when he tries to help an injured crow, his ordinary life is suddenly upended. Now trapped in a secret, magical world, Ty finds himself at the center of a cryptic prophecy, and the target of a brutal emperor who will stop at nothing to protect his power. In a desperate gamble, Ty struggles to control his emerging magical Talent so he can help his friends rescue their kidnapped family members before the emperor uses his dark sorcery to transform them into birds and enslaves them forever as soldiers in his enchanted avian army.

Smoochy and the Maga by Lea Kinley

Okay, okay. I admit I was bored with the tedium of my centuries of work as a magical Familiar. But did I really deserve to be punished with an assignment on Earth of all places? My employer, The Society for the Conservation of Wholeness, tasked me with locating a fellow Familiar that appeared to be working for a destructive wizard . . . which is a big no-no according to our employment contract. While Earth is generally a non-magical, dull, and undesirable location, I never thought I’d have any trouble at all with the assignment . . . until I realized I knew far less about Earth than I needed to and my enemy, the destructive wizard, knew far more than I did. The stakes were high for me for the first time in tens of thousands of years . . . had I finally met my match? Smoochy and the Maga is a fun, fanciful, and charming middle-grade urban fantasy novel by introductory author, Lea Kinley. The perfect cozy fantasy for tweens, teens, and the young at heart. Recommended for grade five and up or ages 9 and up.

The Maiden Tree (The Umbral Origins Trilogy) by Julianna Drumheller

At eight years old, Amardine Desmarius longs to know all about her mother, a famous opera singer who died under mysterious circumstances. But her father is strangely reticent about the subject, becoming alarmed, even angry, when she shows signs of wanting to follow in her mother’s footsteps. As Amardine’s curiosity grows, so too does her anxiety about the future, especially as a deadly epidemic threatens her household. After a vagabond dies of the disease on her family’s land, Amardine begins to see ominous signs and portents. Influenced by her maid’s beliefs about spirits and demons, she imagines that something is reaching out from another world to communicate with her. But is she just a fretful child, or is there a pattern drawing her into a fate she doesn’t understand? As she attempts to uncover the truth about her mother’s legacy, Amardine must contend with an emotionally distant father, a high-society aunt who treats her like a charity project, and her two resentful, bullying cousins. Then her life is suddenly turned upside down by an event she didn’t foresee, and she is drawn even deeper into the shadowy world her mother inhabited. In the process, she learns to stand up for herself, take pride in who she is, and accept that people are not always as she imagines them to be. The Maiden Tree is the first volume of The Umbral Origins Trilogy, a coming-of-age series set in a world where magic is evolving with culture, and poised to collide with new technologies. Told from an older perspective, Amardine recounts the childhood experiences that will shape her into an artist and mystic, and eventually bring her infamy. How far will she go to find the truth and unlock her own potential? And will it bring her the healing she seeks, or lead her further into darkness?

Dragon and Mr. Sneeze: Charli's Story by Blue Skeleton

Do you love fantasy? Do you like rebellious witches? You'll love this smart suspenseful novel with a twist, because it has shades of Harry Potter.Seventeen-year-old Charli wishes that ghosts would just go away. After her mother’s death, she’s barely making ends meet and having dead people nag her all day isn’t helping. But when her best friend Dotty falls deeply ill, Charli discovers she’ll need to learn to Tune in order to keep her companion from becoming a monster. Can Charli control her magic in time, or will she lose her best friend forever? Dragon and Mr. Sneeze: Charli’s Story is the first in a fantasy series. If you like strong heroines, unusual magic, and unique takes on mythical creatures, you’ll love Blue Skeleton’s enchanting tale. Buy Dragon and Mr. Sneeze: Charli’s Story to speak with the dead today!

The Polar Bear and the Dragon: Dawn of an Alliance (A Middle Grade Coming of Age Fantasy Adventure) by Debbie Watson

Whitney’s thirteenth summer is being hijacked. Plagued with terrifying nightmares and confused by strange new abilities, her life is spiraling out of control. Joining forces with a mysterious and powerful ally may be her only solution. Whitney, her mom, and their unique cat live high on a sandy bluff overlooking Lake Superior in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Whitney has spent her entire life unaware of the unique gifts lying dormant deep inside her. But the summer of her thirteenth birthday changes everything! Strange new talents surface that can’t be ignored, and nightmares terrify her. On top of all that, she suddenly misses a father she never knew. A Chicago fireman, her father died tragically on the night she was born. Whitney’s tired of losing sleep over frequent and frightening nightmares, and these disturbing new skills are baffling her. She knows she needs help, and her mom, Susan, seems like the perfect choice. They’re very close, and never keep secrets from each other. Confiding in Susan should be so easy. But an instinct, both puzzling and believable, surfaces and stops Whitney in her tracks. It warns her not to tell Susan, because doing so might put her in grave danger. Realizing she must find a way to deal with everything by herself, Whitney feels lost and alone. Powerful and strange new allies arrive without warning, and just in time. These new friends, and a series of unbelievable events, help Whitney cope with her nightmares and guide her toward understanding and welcoming her unique abilities.

Impossible Castle (Guardian of the Realm Book 1) by M. Gregg Roe

Protecting an enchanted realm created by a god-like wizard is a responsibility she never wanted. But no one ever said life was fair. Trouble is brewing in Andoran’s Realm. Someone is intent on constructing a stone structure in a desolate area, but not in the usual fashion. Created by powerful magic, oddly shaped stone blocks have begun to appear. And there’s no sign of who or what is responsible. Is it a threat or just a curiosity? Resentful or not, the Guardian knows where her duty lies. She needs to investigate, and she knows she’s not smart enough to do that alone. But that also means an even greater disruption of the normal life she so desperately desires. If you’re tired of the same old tropes and predictable plots, then Impossible Castle may be what you’ve been waiting for.

The Search For Synergy by Brett Salter

The Search For Synergy is the first book in The Talisman Series by author Brett Salter. It follows the exploits of two middle-school boys, Rome Lockheed and Julian Rider, as they transition from normal kids into epic warriors fighting for the existence of the Earth realm. Rome is secretly a fire dragon from the Den of Volcana placed under a spell which hides his true form. Julian is an oddball, up-and-coming knight with a case of the “try-hards”. Together, they perform an ancient pact which bonds their lives and souls forever. Under the tutelage and guidance of an eccentric, local librarian, Mr. Jones, the two learn of an impending invasion from an archaic evil desperate to invade from the other side of The Void.

The Blameless by E.S. Christison

Briana, Princess of Predonia, has lived a happy and sheltered life. Then, in a single night, her kingdom is overthrown and centuries of peace are abruptly shattered. Fleeing for her life as her kingdom burns, Brie is rescued by Flinton, Derek, and Kove, three powerful protectors who pledge to teach her how to fight and use the powerful magic that has awakened within her. Brie finds sanctuary in the mountain stronghold of the Blameless, people who receive magical gifts from the gods after performing acts of unparalleled selflessness. Among them, Brie’s grieving heart slowly learns to live and laugh again. With the help of her new friends, she strives to master her growing powers so she can avenge her family, take back her place as the rightful heir to the throne, and free her people from the clutches of a tyrant. But can one girl change the tides against an evil that has conquered an entire kingdom?