Ultra by David Carroll @writerunrepeat and @scholasticCDA

Ultra
David Carroll
Scholastic

I reluctantly started this book so I could conference with a student. I did not expect to like it as I am not an enthusiast of marathon running.  I was wrong!  The story is told in two ways; partly as an interview and partly as a flashback narrative of Quinn's (the main character) experience. The story includes all of the physical and emotional challenges of running an ultra marathon from this teenager's point of view.  I learned a great deal about the motivations behind running such a race.  I really enjoyed the way the author introduces the various types of athletes who participate in these non-traditional events as Quinn participates in the 24 hour race.  I think middle grade readers would really enjoy this story and it's a great addition to my library as it depicts the participation in an individual sport.

Graffiti Knight by @karenbassYA @pajamaspress1

Graffiti Knight
Karen Bass
Pajama Press

I thoroughly enjoyed the pace and historical details in this novel.  Karen Bass-the author, gave me a sense of the difficulties of living in a communist, post war Germany in 1947.  I learned many details and now I have even more questions about life after World War 2. The depiction of teenage life in communist Germany was an eye opener.  This book would be a great read aloud to intermediate students because of the opportunities to have discussions around the themes of loyalty, friendship, revenge, and hope.