BOOKS TO BORROW

"The Lemonade Club" by Patricia Polacco, Philomel, 42 pages

Read aloud: age 7 and older

Read yourself: age 8 and older

Best friends Traci and Marilyn love their fifth-grade teacher, Miss Wichelman. Every day before class ends, Miss Wichelman tells her students that when life hands you a lemon or two, make lemonade! Little do the students and Miss Wichelman know that soon they will be called upon to do just that.

An extraordinary book based on true events, this story is ultimately a celebration of life, love and the power of friendship.

LIBRARIAN'S CHOICE

Library Director: Joanne Westkamper

Children's Librarians: Carole Pazzaglia, Christine Schulz

Choices this week: "Pete's a Pizza" by William Steig; "Owl Moon" by Jane Yolen; "The Tale of Despereaux" by Kate DiCamillo

AT THE BOOKSTORE

"There's This Thing" by Connah Brecon, Philomel, 2014, 32 pages, $16.99 hardcover

Read aloud: age 5 to 8

Read yourself: age 7 and 8

"There's this thing I really like. I would like to like it even more." The problem for this little girl is that she is shy. She tries all sorts of ways to capture the attention of the "thing" (boy) she likes, but nothing seems to work. When she finally comes to the conclusion that he must not like her, she is in for a delightful surprise.

A charming story with equally charming illustrations, this selection is pure delight.

"Clark the Shark Takes Heart" by Bruce Hale, illustrated by Guy Francis, Harper, 2015, 32 pages, $17.99 hardcover

Read aloud: age 4 to 8

Read yourself: 7 and 8

Clark the Shark is the strongest and bravest fish at Theodore Roosterfish Elementary. Clark likes to live loud and fast, and he is good at both. There is only one thing that makes him nervous: girls. This poses a problem for Clark because he likes Anna Angelfish, but he doesn't know how to let her know how he feels.

Luckily, Anna is about to celebrate her birthday and Clark wants to impress her in a big way. Clark asks his best friend, Joey Mackerel, for advice, and while Joey tries to steer Clark in the right direction, Clark continues to use his usual approach that is big and full of flash, but nothing seems to attract Anna's attention. Finally, Joey convinces Clark that bigger isn't always better and that sometimes the best things come in small, thoughtful packages. Not long thereafter, Clark discovers that Joey is absolutely right!

A fun story about friendship, first crushes and gift-giving, this selection is terrific for Valentine's Day or anytime.

kendal@sunlink.net