Sharp, perceptive, and gifted in other ways, Ally successfully hides her inability to read—often by misbehaving. After seven schools in seven years, Ally forms an alliance and friendship with two other misfits; and, finally, a substitute teacher sees beyond her calculated obstinance. With the wisdom of Einstein’s words, the teacher reminds Ally that a Fish in a Tree (Nancy Paulsen, $16.99) should not be judged on its ability to climb. Lynda Mullaly Hunt’s compassionate story of triumph over adversity portrays the many challenges of middle school with memorable characters that will live in your heart long after the last page. Ages 10-12. Mary Alice Garber
Travel Over the Hills and Far Away (Candlewick, $21.99) and discover the fascinating ways nursery rhymes have crisscrossed the globe. In this spirited collection of poetry and art, Elizabeth Hammill (critic and founder of Seven Stories, Britain’s Centre for Children’s Books) brings focus to the richness and diversity of intercultural rhymes, maintaining regional spellings and usage. Hammill carefully pairs each rhyme with one of the 77 featured artists whose particular style corresponds to the verse’s temperament or cultural relevance. This peerless treasury of verses and visual interpretations is a must for everyone’s library. Ages 1-8. Mary Alice Garber
Every detective story can use some levity. Celebrated Indian author, Anushka Ravishankar provides plenty with the introduction of affable detective Captain Coconut, who is both Holmes and Clouseau. Captain Coconut and the Case of the Missing Bananas (Tara, $16.95) is a mystery of numbers with a sprinkling of non-sequiturs, songs reminiscent of Bollywood and a generous dose of irreverence. Illustrator Priya Sundram’s brightly colored collage art accents the droll investigation and completes the exceptional design of this unique graphic novel. Ages 7-10. Mary Alice Garber
