Even if you haven’t yet seen this week’s books, you probably recognize the authors: Ben Hatke and Kelly Yang. Both are well-known and much-loved among the tween set for their stories of family, friendship, and resilience. FINALLY SEEN and THINGS IN THE BASEMENT are very different books. Yet, as our reviewers point out, young readers can see themselves and gain empathy toward others in both stories.
Book covers link to Goodreads so you can put these on your TBR if interested.
MIDDLE-GRADE FICTION
When Lina Gao (10) has been waiting 5 years to see her parents and little sister. She has heard about her parents' fabulous life in postcards. Except life in LA is not like the postcards. As she reckons with her hurt, Lina tries to keep a lid on her feelings, both at home and at school. When her teacher starts facing challenges for her latest book selection, a book that deeply resonates with Lina, it will take all of Lina’s courage and resilience to get over her fear and choose a future where she’s finally seen.
Gina @ Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers – A heartfelt story that will speak to SO MANY, allow readers to both see themselves, and through the eyes of another, with a gentle touch, but with the crystal clear force of reality. go ahead. Grab your copy of this wonderful story, and just try to tell me you aren’t moved by it. Whether it’s Lina’s courage, Lao Lao’s shock at a boy being a friend, Millie’s contagious energy, or the amazing teachers that share their strength and knowledge… you can’t walk away from this one without feeling…FINALLY SEEN. ❤
Susan @ Blogging ‘Bout Books (on Goodreads) – The tale hits on plenty of important topics that should provoke lively discussions: immigration, bullying, organic farming, book banning, the pandemic, the importance of diverse books, what The American Dream really means, etc. In short, there are plenty of reasons to pick up this moving novel! There is enough conflict and tension in the story to keep things interesting. I found the tale engrossing enough to zip through it in one day.
Jessica @ Cracking the Cover – When all seems lost, it’s a book that gives Lina hope. And it’s not just any book, it’s a graphic novel that’s images allow her to infer meanings. It opens doors to friendship and learning. Multiple plot lines intersect throughout Finally Seen, ranging from immigration and family to bullying and climate change. There’s a lot going on, but the elements play off each other, creating a cohesive read. Yang’s writing is warm and familiar. She captures Lina’s true essence, and captures readers’ hearts in the process.
ELEMENTARY/MIDDLE-GRADE GRAPHIC NOVEL
Milo and his family have moved into a historic home. When Milo's mother sends him to the basement to fetch his little sister's sock, he finds a door in the back that he's never seen before. Turns out that the basement of his house is enormous. In fact, there is a whole world down there. As Milo travels ever deeper into the Basement World, he meets the many Things that live in the shadows and gloom...and he learns that to face his fears he must approach even the strangest creatures with kindness.
Rachael @ Goodreads – This was such a fun, adorable middle grade graphic novel! There were so many layers – literally and figuratively – and it kept me guessing and turning the page. I loved the art work, and the idea of the humungous basement with sock rats. I loved the team work and bravery and friendship and family. I think this was such a fun book and I hope there is a sequel in the works!
VulpixBookPix @ Bookish Things (on Tumblr) – There’s lots of fun onomatopoeias in the panels that are great for a read aloud. The different layers of the basement may have little dialogue until the last half (or even last third) of the book, but the panels have lots of detail to explore as the reader travels with Milo. Then, the adventure picks up with added party members as well as enemies. I had a fun time reading it.