Cody has always had a special friend named Paul Brightfield. Cody's family and friends feel he spends too much time with Paul, they sense that Paul is not quite what he seems. Paul is special because he is not human even if he can look human. Paul is a magical being, older than time itself. One night an ancient evil, The Woman, awakens in Wilde Park. Cody, his sister and two of their friends are the only humans left who can save humanity. The Woman has decided to remake the world to her liking. The children embark on a strange adventure where time ceases to exist as we know it. They experience fear, betrayal, hope and joy as they search for the Stardust Kid, their only hope in defeating The Woman. Will The Stardust Kid help restore order to the world, or is he going to transform the earth into something else entirely? What is Paul Brightfield's connection to The Woman? The story is exciting and very well-written. The illustrations are fantastic! (See the slide show below for examples of the interior). Appropriate for any age, but does involve a fair amount of reading so I would recommend it for fifth grade and above.
Umami By Jacob Grant New York: Viking, an imprint of Penguin Random House LLC, 2024. Picture Book. Umami is a little penguin who is sick of eating the same thing everyday, cold fish --ugh! She becomes determined to find new foods and flavors, so Umami begins a journey across the sea in search of something different to eat. She reaches a place with a plethora of delicious options, and tries bitter, sweet, sour, and foods with umami (just like her name!) among others. Umami decides to bring all these delicious new flavors back for the other penguins to try in a feast. But, will the other penguins enjoy this new experience? Filled with charm and humor, Umami is a diverse romp through a universal experience --am I willing to try something new? What will it be like? The idea of trying new foods and flavors make it especially relatable, and the appealing illustrations will have many readers ready to hop out on a culinary adventure. A humorous and sweet ending, caps off this delig...
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