Brave Water is a moving tale about a single day in the life of a teenage girl from a remote African village. This book highlights many difficult topics that, sadly, are daily struggles for many people around the world. This unique story is told through multiple viewpoints, as well as numerous flashbacks, but mainly unfolds from Talitha’s point of view. During her long daily trek to the only freshwater source for her village, Talitha experiences a day that completely alters her life.

Avery’s Battlefield is a sweet historical novel for middle school students. The story follows two years in the life of Avery, a young teen boy, during the Civil War. This book would be a great way to introduce kids to that tumultuous time in American history.

In The Unschool Challenge, Elvis provides short essays on various topics related to unschooling and then she provides challenges for readers to do. This is a pick and choose sort of book. You don’t need to read it in order. You can select which topics interest you and learn more about them, pursue some of the challenges, and incorporate what you feel is valuable into your homeschooling life.

A new set of books on “God’s Superheroes” by Mary Bajda is designed to appeal to ages eight through teens and encourages young people to use their own gifts in service to God and others.

Set in ancient Rome, the reader will learn about the early church and what Roman society was like during that time through the adventures of these likable characters. This series is definitely one to check out!

The Strange Birds of Flannery O’Connor: A Life by Amy Alexander is a charming oversized picture book that introduces children to this amazing woman.

Don’t miss this captivating tale by master story-teller Theresa Linden. I’m so thankful that the West Brothers series continues with this magical new addition.

The Stories Behind the Stories: The Remarkable True Tales Behind Your Favorite Children’s Books by Danielle Higley offers a fascinating look at the authors and circumstances that combined to create some of the most beloved works of children’s literature.

In a new picture book, The First Notes: The Story of Do, Re, Mi, Andrews and her daughter, Emma Walton Hamilton, share the story of how the musical scale came to be.

he characters in this series are wonderful—from the main protagonists to the supporting cast, they all help to bring the story to life. I especially appreciate the positive messages and life-lessons that the author weaves into her stories.