Betsy loves these:

Both thought provoking and funny, this heartfelt middle grade debut by author/illustrator Peter Brown tells the story of “Roz”, the unusual robot inhabitant of a remote ocean island. Programmed to communicate and learn Roz must adapt to her wild surroundings in order to survive. At first, the animals of the island think of her as a monster, but over time they form a community. Though Brown doesn’t shy away from the cruelty of nature (or man) the prose is gentle and ultimately uplifting.

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This sad, beautiful story about a grief stricken girl and a mysterious young fox is told with nuance and compassion; weaving together devastating loss, burning wishes, Native American legends, a hidden grotto, and love transcendent… a heady mix for a young reader to be sure, but seamlessly drawing together the human, animal and spirit worlds in its exploration of sorrow and destiny.

Petunia knows that, “He who owns Books and loves them is wise.” So when she finds one in the meadow she decides that if she keeps it with her always, then surely it will make her wise. But after bad advice she’s given to the farmyard animals turns disastrous a valuable lesson is learned. A classic from the 1950s, always beloved in my household.

Humankind is encroaching on the winter valley; food has grown scarce and predators are many. Guided by the legends passed down by his ancestors, Tuk, the largest lamb born into a herd of bighorn sheep, is driven to lead a small group of fellow yearlings in search of the safety and plentitude of the fabled Blue Mountain. Facing danger along the way Tuk confronts each with cleverness and bravery, growing with every encounter into the leader that he was destined to be. Inspired by the research journals of her father, Martine Leavitt weaves a lyrical story rich in details of the natural world.

Upon seeing her first ballet, a young girl dreams of becoming a ballerina…
In this gorgeous picture book the story of famed Russian prima ballerina Anna Pavlova is simply and exquisitely told using sparse, lyrical text and beautifully delicate illustrations. A two-page author’s note at the end of the book gives further historical context and biographical detail.

This book is not returnable
This one doesn't pull any punches. A gritty psychological thriller with layered plotting that pulls you back and forth between two desperate realities, and explores the impact of trauma, obsession and addiction. With its vivid imagery and provocative storytelling, this novel will bore its way into your mind just like the Marbury Lens. Not for the faint of heart.