Click here to see all of the current Quick Picks for Reluctant Readers nominees along with more information about the list and past years’ selections.
Fake News: Separating Truth from Fiction by Michael Miller
Twenty First Century Books
January 1, 2019
ISBN13: 9781541528147
Fake News is a short, concise book that describes what fake news is, why it is a problem, and how to avoid and combat it. With concrete examples from current events, readers learn tips and tricks to avoid all kinds of fake news, from outrageous lies to biased articles. Terms are explained throughout. There are source notes, a bibliography, more resources and an index in the back.
Fake News is a hot topic these days. This book is reasonably short, well laid out, and chock full of information that is clearly explained at a teen level. Interesting photos with short outtakes will also pull readers in.
Readers who like nonfiction, especially regarding current events or political science, will like this book. Those who enjoyed How I Resist: Activism and Hope for a New Generation edited by Maureen Johnson and other books of activism will also enjoy this guide to finding the truth in news.
–Cathy Outten
Mera: Tidebreaker by Danielle Paige; Illustrated by Stephen Byrne
DC Ink
Publication Date: April 2, 2019
ISBN: 978-1401283391
Mera: Tidebreaker by Danielle Paige is about teenage Mera, princess and heir to the throne of Xebel, who is unhappy with Xebel being ruled by Atlantis and being expected to marry out of duty. When she learns that her father plans to overthrow Atlantis by removing their heir, Mera takes control of her destiny by planning to find Arthur Curry, the lost Atlantean prince, first and assassinating him before anyone else does. However, Mera isn’t a killer and she doesn’t expect to fall in love with Arthur either. Mera must decide which is more important, her people or Arthur.
Mera: Tidebreaker fits the Quick Pick for Reluctant Readers criteria because it is action-packed right from the beginning and intensifies as the story goes on. As a graphic novel, it is attention-getting and will attract readers with its detailed illustrations, in particular the contrast of the minimally-colored images in contrast to Mera’s red hair. Providing an origin story for Mera and Arthur Curry (aka Aquaman), Mera: Tidebreaker also provides a familiar story based on comic book and movie characters.
Fans of the DC movies Wonder Woman and Aquaman and Marvel’s Captain America, will enjoy reading Mera: Tidebreaker.
–Kat Reynolds
