We Are the Ship: The Story of Negro League Baseball by Kadir Nelson - J 796.357 NEL

Sometimes a book comes along with illustrations so impressive, you see them in your sleep. This is one of those books. Nelson, a painter, tells the remarkable story of unsung heroes who overcame untold hardships to do the one thing they loved most – play baseball. His splendid visual narrative, told in the first person, makes you feel as though you’re sitting right there in the bleachers, basking in the colors and tones of the day and in the triumphs and defeats of Negro League baseball. This documentary about our national game will prompt laughter and tears in those who recall the legendary Satchel Paige and Jackie Robinson and awe and disbelief in those who see them, and many others, for the first time. The title comes from the league’s founder, Rube Foster, who said in 1920, "We are the ship; all else the sea." Submitted by Sue Parsons, Youth Services Librarian

Hattie Big Sky by Kirby Larson – YA LAR

Orphaned as a child at the turn of the twentieth century, Hattie lives in Iowa with a gentle cousin, whom she calls “Uncle Holt”, and his domineering, sour wife. World War I has just begun, and her friend, Charlie, has already gone overseas. Then, a letter arrives that changes her life forever. Hattie’s recently-deceased maternal uncle has willed his Montana homestead to her if she wants it. She siezes the opportunity and heads west as a 16 year-old homesteader, or “honyocker”. There, while tackling back-breaking work, she learns the true meaning of family, friendship and love of country. This Newbery Honor book – inspired by the author’s personal family history - will make you laugh, wonder, and cry. Submitted by Sue Parsons, Youth Services Librarian

Reaching for the Sun by Tracie Vaughn Zimmer – YA ZIM

This gem of a story, written in free verse, follows four seasons of narrator Josie's life as she comes of age on a family farm with her grandmother, single mom, and new friend, Jordan. Each faces challenges - Josie has cerebral palsy - but they come through them together, strengthened by familial love, friendship, and the rejuvenating power of nature. This is a heartfelt story for all ages. Submitted by Sue Parsons, Youth Services Librarian

Twenty-one Elephants and Still Standing by April Jones Prince - E PRI

Upon completion of the Brooklyn Bridge, P.T. Barnum and his twenty-one elephants parade across to prove to everyone that the bridge is safe. Submitted by Pam Phillips, Youth Services Assistant

Philippa Fisher’s Fairy Godsister by Liz Kessler - JF KES

Philippa Fisher’s world is changing around her. Charlotte, Philippa’s best friend, is moving away. That same weekend, Philippa tries to summon a fairy only to discover that she cannot. Monday morning during school she is taken aback when the new girl, Daisy, announces she is Philippa’s godsister. Philippa’s life is soon spinning with three wishes, a displeased godsister, and a new-found friendship. She learns how a wish can change life and reveal important qualities about herself. Submitted by Heather Mullaney, Youth Services Librarian