Material World: The Six Raw Materials that Shape Modern Civilization

Conway, Ed. Material World: The Six Raw Materials that Shape Modern Civilization. 2023. 512p. ISBN 9780593534342.

When we think of our economy, we think of financial services, social media, insurance, entertainment, and advertising. We may also consider carmakers, airplane manufacturers, and other industries that manufacture widgets. However, none of those services or widgets can operate without one of six strategic materials. Despite or perhaps because of our perception of our world, its material components are often ignored in our considerations of the economy.

Our society is built on six essential materials, without which the world we know it would look more like that of cave dwellers' ancestors. These six are salt, sand, iron, copper, oil, and lithium. Salt is the oldest strategic resource, with evidence that humans exploited salt mines and brine pools over 7,000 years ago. Salt routes of old are superhighways today, connecting countries and continents. Almost every chemical or industrial process contains salt, sodium chloride, or other derivatives. Sand is used for glass, computer chips, and industrial processes. Iron is essential to build machines, buildings, and transportation networks. Copper conducts electricity and permits energy transfer from one place to another. Lithium goes into batteries and medicine and represents the future of a decarbonized economy.

Without these elements, our society would be very different. Readers who enjoy discussions about economics or the impact of development on our society will enjoy this thoroughly researched book. Similar books include Guns, Germs, and Steel and After 1177 B.C.

Danger and Other Unknown Risks

North, Ryan and Erica Henderson. Danger and Other Unknown Risks. 2023. 206p. ISBN 9780593224847.

What if the world didn't end with a technological collapse but with magic's sudden and chaotic arrival on January 1st, 2000 instead? Years later, the Earth has been irrevocably changed. Magic is a reality, albeit unpredictable, and while people seem content on the surface, a sense of instability pervades this new world. Marguerite de Pruitt and her loyal and speaking canine companion, Daisy, find themselves at the center of this precarious existence.

Trained from childhood for a momentous task by her uncle Bernard, Marguerite and Daisy are seemingly destined to save the world from descending into deadly chaos. However, their journey is fraught with challenges and unexpected emotional depth. They encounter friends and foes to retrieve the three totems that her uncle Bernard needs to restore the world to what it was back on December 31, 1999. Through it all, Marguerite demonstrates resilience and grit as she overcomes obstacles despite possessing little magic.

Danger and Other Unknown Risks blends laugh-out-loud adventure with poignant moments. It explores themes of truth, chosen family, and rebirth. At its core, the story asks a profound question: What lengths would you and your friends go to to save the world?

Heir of Storms

Murray, Lauryn Hamilton. Heir of Storms. Book 1 of the Storm Weaver series. 2025. 416p. ISBN 9781250348159. 

From the moment of her birth, Blaze, a rare Rain Singer born into a dominant fire-wielding family, brought catastrophic destruction, summoning a storm that claimed thousands of lives across the Empire. Unbeknownst to all, however, the girl derisively known as Storm Weaver has not been able to manifest any of her magical power ascribed to her since she was born. Since that devastating day, she has been kept hidden. 

On her 17th name day, she and her twin Flint welcome guests to her grandmother's estate, and Blaze is finally introduced to the Empire's nobility. At the ball, Blaze is mercilessly taunted by her despicable cousin Amber, who mocks her lack of ability. Under the pressure, Blaze manifest a power she did not think she had, and she shatters all of the glasses. This makes a lasting impression on Howe, the crown prince.

An unexpected invitation to compete for the empire's future leadership thrusts Blaze and Flint are trust into the spotlight and into a world of political battle as they are summoned to the Golden Palace to participate in the next heirs' trials. The Empire's capital is is rife with threats, intrigue, and romance, as Blaze finds herself drawn to both the charming Crown Prince and a dangerously alluring newcomer, the prince's half brother. As she delves into her dormant abilities, she realizes the throne of the Queen of Water could be hers, but claiming it will demand shedding the narratives imposed upon her and bravely forging her own destiny.

Fans of series like Red Queen will enjoy this new series that dwells in the fantastic and the politics of an Empire teetering on the edge of chaos.

Ghost Book

Lai, Remy. Ghost Book. 2023. 320p. ISBN 9781250810434. Available in the graphic novels section of the library.

July Chen possesses the ability to see ghosts. But no one else sees her. In middle school, July is all but invisible, and her classmates and teachers can't even remember her name. It's as if she doesn't even exist. She's kept this ability a secret from her father, who doesn't believe in ghosts and who's overworked anyway. July's mother died in childbirth, so July has no memories of her.

Hungry Ghost month is a time when ghosts and spirits cross the border between this world and theirs. For July, it is the most difficult time of the year, as she has to actively ignore all of the ghosts around her, otherwise they will badger her to share news with their families. Standing on a bridge with classmates, she notices a hungry ghosts chasing the ghost of a boy her age. Despite her best instincts, July intervenes and saves William from a gruesome second death, only to discover that William is only nearly dead, and not truly dead. 

Striving to retrieve Wiliam's body and reunite it with William's ghost, July uncovers a vast ghost bureaucracy that seeks to impose order on the ghost world and move along those who have died. Their perilous adventure takes them through the city, and July discovers secrets along the way that reveal her existence is much different than she thought it was, along with an explanation of why she has always been invisible. 

Inspired by Chinese mythology, July's travels through the unseen world of ghosts explores themes of friendship, sacrifice, and the delicate balance between life and death. Beautifully illustrated, fans of paranormal stories will enjoy this graphic novel.

When the Ice Is Gone: What a Greenland Ice Core Reveals About Earth's Tumultuous History and Perilous Future

Bierman, Paul. When the Ice Is Gone: What a Greenland Ice Core Reveals About Earth's Tumultuous History and Perilous Future. 2024. 304p. ISBN 9781324020677.

When the Ice Is Gone recounts author Paul Bierman's groundbreaking discovery that Greenland's massive ice sheet melted naturally 400,000 years ago, a time when Earth's temperature was comparable to present-day levels. This revelation came from analyzing long-lost frozen soil samples retrieved from the world's first deep ice core, drilled decades ago at Camp Century, a Cold War military base buried within the Greenland ice sheet. Bierman's findings challenge previous assumptions about ice sheet stability and suggest that the ice is inherently vulnerable, even without the influence of human-caused climate change.

When the Ice Is Gone explores the scientific journey behind this pivotal discovery, tracing the history of polar science and how researchers learned to interpret the information contained within ice and snow. Bierman delves into the technical aspects of the Camp Century ice core project and explains the significance of his team's analysis. He also emphasizes the alarming implications of his findings for the future, warning of potentially catastrophic consequences if climate change continues unabated. When the Ice Is Gone serves as a call to action, urging readers to recognize Greenland's crucial role in global climate and to heed the warning signs from the melting ice.

Braiding Sweetgrass for Young Adults: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge, and the Teachings of Plants

Wall Kimmerer, Robin. Braiding Sweetgrass for Young Adults: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge, and the Teachings of Plants. 2013. 341p. ISBN 9781571313355.

Braiding Sweetgrass for Young Adults bridges the gap between scientific inquiry and Indigenous wisdom. Drawing upon her dual perspectives as both a scientist and a member of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation, Kimmerer explores the interconnectedness of all living beings. She argues that a deeper understanding of the natural world necessitates a respectful and reciprocal relationship with plants and animals, recognizing them as our teachers and acknowledging the profound gifts they offer.

Kimmerer emphasizes the importance of listening to the languages of other beings, whether through scientific observation or through the traditional knowledge passed down through generations. By cultivating a reciprocal relationship with the earth, she argues, we can move beyond a purely utilitarian view of nature and embrace a more sustainable and harmonious coexistence with the natural world. Braiding Sweetgrass for Young Adults is a powerful and insightful exploration of ecological awareness, offering a profound and inspiring vision for a more just and sustainable future.

Unretouchable

Szamosi, Sofia. Unretouchable. 2022. 152p. ISBN 9781728462929. Available in the graphic novels section of the library.

Having graduated from high school, Olive is looking for a break as she prepares to go to art school. Her mother has other ideas, however, and she tells Olive she's secured a highly sought-after internship assisting a top digital-imaging specialist in the fashion industry. Her experiences at a glamorous New York photo shoot expose her to the intricate and often manipulative world of image retouching. Olive learns the power of editing software and the secrets behind creating seemingly perfect "virtual models," and she discovers the "violent verbs" used to alter and enhance images. This behind-the-scenes look at the industry begins to affect Olive's self-image and raises ethical questions about her work.

As Olive's college years approach, she struggles with her newfound awareness of the unrealistic beauty standards the fashion industry perpetuates. She grapples with her own insecurities about her appearance and attempts to disconnect from the Internet's pervasive influence. Ultimately, Olive must find a way to reconcile her experiences with her own artistic vision and embrace image-making on her own terms, navigating the complex world of fashion photography while staying true to herself. Unretouchable offers a glimpse into this influential industry and emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance in a world of manipulated images.

Motherlands: Poems

Pan, Weijia. Motherlands: Poems. 2024. 96p. ISBN 9781639551132.

Motherlands is a poignant poetry collection that traces the journey of a speaker-poet from their childhood in post-Maoist China to their life in the United States, exploring the cultural and linguistic divides experienced across both historical and contemporary landscapes. The poems delve into themes of belonging, assimilation, and identity, highlighting the anxieties of linguistic erosion and the echoes of historical injustices, such as the exploitation of Chinese laborers. Through vivid imagery and introspective verses, the collection lays bare the tensions of navigating multiple cultural identities.

The author's attentive and imaginative poems grapple with the artist's role in chronicling truth, particularly in the context of displacement and global injustice. While questioning the limitations of observation, the poet confronts ancestral traumas linked to Maoist China and modern-day bigotry, finding solace and understanding through the act of artistic creation. The collection masterfully juxtaposes regional and universal elements, bridging historical figures and cultural touchstones to craft an emotionally resonant world. Ultimately, Motherlands showcases poetry's profound ability to ground, educate, and transform our understanding of ourselves and the world around us.

Maximum Ride, the Manga, Vol. 8

Patterson, James and NaRae Lee. Maximum Ride, the Manga, Vol. 8. 2014. 240p. ISBN 9780759529748. Available in the graphic novels section of the library. 

Now in Antarctica with the flock following their adventures in Maximum Ride, the Manga, Vol. 7, Max hopes the remote, icy landscape will offer a respite from the constant pressure of their uncertain future. However, their hopes for a peaceful retreat are quickly shattered when they discover that the frozen continent holds its own set of deadly perils. Beyond the harsh, unforgiving environment and the threat of frostbite, a far more sinister danger lurks in the shadows.

A powerful and ruthless figure from the criminal underworld has placed a bounty on the flock, promising the super-powered children to the highest bidder. This individual possesses a formidable robotic army, ensuring he has the means to capture and deliver his valuable prize. The flock soon realizes that they are not just facing the challenges of the Antarctic wilderness but also a relentless and technologically advanced enemy, determined to exploit their unique abilities for their own nefarious purposes.

Max in the Land of Lies

Gidwitz, Adam. Max in the Land of Lies. Book 2 of the Operation Kinderspion. 2025. 320p. ISBN 9780593112113.

Max Bretzfeld  escaped from Germany and Hitler's grasp. Now after some intensive training and with the world at war and Germany currently winning, Max returns to his native Berlin, not as a refugee, but as a British spy. His official mission, sanctioned by his British spymasters, is to infiltrate the Funkhaus, the heart of Nazi radio and propaganda. This dangerous assignment requires Max to use his radio expertise to gather intelligence and disrupt the Nazi propaganda machine.

However, Max harbors a secret, personal mission that he keeps hidden from his spymasters: the search for his missing parents. Driven by a desperate hope to reunite with his family, Max is willing to risk everything, even his own safety and the success of his official mission, to find them amidst the chaos and danger of Nazi Germany. Can Max stay one step ahead of the Nazis who are hunting him down?

Max's dual objectives create a complex and suspenseful narrative, as he balances his loyalty to his new country with his unwavering commitment to his family. The character of Max is realistic and he makes mistakes like all middle schoolers. But he's also conscious of the risks and every step he takes gets him closer being discovered. Fans of historical novels will enjoy this well researched book and will appreciate this glimpse into a totalitarian society.

The Vibes You Feel: What I’ve Learned about Life and Relationships through the Holy Spirit

Sheard-Kelly, Kierra. The Vibes You Feel: What I’ve Learned about Life and Relationships through the Holy Spirit. 2023. 224p. ISBN 9780310141624.

The Vibes You Feel is a guide for young women seeking to deepen their faith and live a purpose-driven life. Drawing on personal experiences and scriptural teachings, the book explores the concept of "vibes," the intuitive guidance and spiritual direction provided by the Holy Spirit. The author argues that it is important to discern these "vibes" amidst the challenges and distractions of everyday life, such as negative influences and the constant barrage of information.

Through insightful reflections and empowering messages, The Vibes You Feel encourages young women to trust their intuition, overcome self-doubt, and embrace their God-given gifts. The book emphasizes the importance of developing a strong spiritual foundation and cultivating a deep relationship with God as the foundation for a fulfilling and meaningful life. By recognizing and responding to the "vibes" from the Holy Spirit, young women can navigate life's challenges with confidence, purpose, and a greater sense of peace.

Artie and the Wolf Moon

Stephens, Olivia. Artie and the Wolf Moon. 2021. 256p. ISBN 9781728420202. Available in the graphic novels section of the library.

Artie Irvin has never met her father, and her mother doesn't speak much about him. She does have his old film camera, and Artie has grown into a budding photographer. Her life takes a dramatic turn when, after sneaking out one night, she witnesses a wolf transform into her own mother. This revelation unveils a family secret: Artie is descended from a line of werewolves. Excited by this discovery, Artie eagerly seeks knowledge about her newfound heritage, including the story of her deceased father. Her mother, though hesitant, agrees to share the family history, enlisting the help of old friends to guide Artie in understanding and controlling her own emerging wolf-like abilities.

Embraced by her new community, Artie flourishes, even developing a crush on her friend Maya. However, as she delves deeper into the history of werewolves and her parents' past, she uncovers a far more sinister threat lurking in the shadows: vampires. Artie's journey of self-discovery takes a dangerous turn as she realizes that the wolves she now identifies with are not the most frightening creatures in the woods, and that her newfound community, and perhaps even Maya, could be in grave danger.

Beautifully illustrated, Artie and the Wolf Moon takes a fresh look at werewolves and the lives they lead. Artie is a realistic character who makes mistakes abut who learns from them. Fans of paranormal stories will appreciate this action packed story that also features some strong character development.

Words With Wings and Magic Things

Burgess, Matthew. Words with Wings and Magic Things. 2025. 128p. ISBN 9781774880289.

Words With Wings and Magic Things is a vibrant collection of poetry that invites the reader to explore the extraordinary within the ordinary. Through imaginative verses and whimsical illustrations, the book transforms everyday moments into fantastical adventures, featuring creatures like dragon piñatas and hungry yetis, alongside relatable experiences like feeling blue or dreaming of ice cream. This collection aims to uplift and inspire, showing how language can unlock a world of wonder and possibility.

Words With Wings and Magic Things is structured around seven thematic sections, each accessed through die-cut portals, enhancing the reader's journey through different emotional landscapes and imaginative realms. These portals, labeled with words like "Wonder," "Wild," and "Whispers," guide readers through a diverse array of poems, each designed to awaken their sense of curiosity and playfulness. The collection celebrates the power of words to transform reality and encourages young readers to embrace their own creativity and imagination.

Blue Exorcist, Vol. 19

Kato, Kazue. Blue Exorcist, Vol. 19. 2016. 186p. ISBN 9781421593333. Available in the graphic novels section of the library.

Following the discovery of Section 13 in Blue Exorcist, Vol. 18, Lewin Lightning and his apprentice Bon pursue a separate investigation into the secretive Section 13 and its connection to the devastating "Blue Night" event that happened 16 years ago. Lightning's relentless pursuit of the truth leads him and Bon into the depths of the academy, where they discover hidden chambers and long-forgotten secrets. These revelations expose a dark history and unveil the true extent of the demonic influence plaguing the world, hinting at a looming catastrophe that could plunge humanity into an abyss of darkness.

Meanwhile, Mephisto Pheles, the academy's seemingly benevolent chairman, manipulates events from behind the scenes, releasing his powerful brother Amaimon, the King of Earth, to sow discord and advance his own mysterious objectives. This act throws the academy into disarray, forcing the students to confront increasingly dangerous demonic threats while grappling with the unsettling realization that their supposed ally may be their greatest adversary.

Finally, Shuri announces she will not take the cram exam, and she tells her friends she will be hosting a Christmas party to celebrate the end of their semester and everyone is assigned a task!

The story continues in Blue Exorcist, Vol. 20.

The Afterdark

 Latimer, E. The Afterdark. 2025. 400p. ISBN 9781774882245.

The summer before her senior year, Evie Laurent witnesses the drowning of her twin sister, Ada. Though a part of her is now missing, Evie is not really all that sad. All of their lives, Ada has been trying to punish Evie, which even escalated to half-hearted attempts on her life, like the time Ada tried to shove Evie off a cliff during a hike. Evie's mother, a Supreme Court judge, has always been distant, and she decides to send her daughter to live with her father, the principal of Northcroft, an elite boarding school located on an island in Washington State, the school her sister Ada was attending before she died.

Arriving at Northcroft, Evie is immediately ignored by her father, who refuses to welcome her or even to accept an appointment with her. She meets Holland Morgan, former child star of the Wizards television series, and she finds herself attracted to Holland's magnetic personality, sparking an intense desire to learn everything about her. At the same time, Evie is hiding her own dark secrets, including the guilt she carries for her sister's drowning and the growing strength of her own troubling impulses that make her want to hurt others.

Holland Morgan, no stranger to making questionable choices, finds herself drawn to Evie despite knowing it's a dangerous path. As their attraction deepens into obsession, they become entangled in a dangerous game, both feeling a pull towards the darkness that permeates Northcroft. Soon, Evie discovers Northcroft's secret. The school serves as a gate to the Afterdark. Each night, as the school is locked down, the surrounding forest transforms into a nightmarish reflection of itself, a place crawling with unseen horrors. Evie and Holland must now confront a critical choice: fight the seductive call of the shadows and protect each other, or succumb to the darkness and embrace its destructive power that comes with choosing Northcroft!

Fans of paranormal novels will enjoy this creepy story with two strong female characters and a cast of denizens drawing power and corruption from the gate to the Afterdark. 

Go Big: The Secondary School Survival Guide

Burton, Matthew. Go Big: The Secondary School Survival Guide. 2020. 208p. ISBN 9781526362353.

Go Big offers practical advice and encouragement for students navigating the challenges of secondary school. For many students, the move from middle school to high school comes with its share of anxiety, navigating complex social dynamics, new demands on one's time, and, of course, all of the academics and extra-curricular activities that come from being a student in a large school. 

Aiming to build a strong foundation for future success, Go Big addresses common concerns faced by high school students, such as peer pressure, challenging friendships, and the stress of academic demands. Practical strategies for exam preparation, time management, and building confidence are presented. The author shares his own experiences and offers words of wisdom meant to empower young readers to embrace their individuality, overcome obstacles, and strive for their personal and academic goals. 

Go Big serves as a valuable resource for students seeking to navigate the complexities of high school with greater ease and confidence.

Blackwater

Arroyo, Jeannette and Ren Graham. Blackwater. 2022. 304p. ISBN 9781250304025. Available in the graphic novels section of the library.

Tony Price is a popular high school track star who struggles with his father's expectations. Eli Hirsch, who attends the same school, is a quiet boy dealing with a chronic illness and is often absent. They find their lives intertwined in the haunted town of Blackwater, Maine, as reports of a strange vicious animal prowling the woods makes the rounds. Tony is attracted to Eli, but his friend Biff, who is a bully, sees Eli as a weakling deserving of harassment. Eli also feels something for Tony, but the whole jock attitude acts as a repellant. Plus, Eli is haunted by ghosts, especially the persistent ghost of a fisherman who seems to want something from him.

When Tony ends up in the woods with Biff and his family hunting the beast, he turns out to be the prey. Bit by the monster, Tony begins to suffer the consequences, transforming into a werewolf. Witnesses to this transformation, Eli and Tony's best friend, goth girl Marcia decide they must help their friend before he does something he will regret. Working together, the three of them attempt to find a way to save Tony while living through usual trials and tribulations of high school life.

Exploring themes of friendship, identity, and the supernatural, Blackwater creates a unique and engaging reading experience for fans of graphic novels and supernatural mysteries.

All the Blues in the Sky

Watson, Renée. All the Blues in the Sky. 2025. 208p. ISBN 9781547605897.

The day Sage turned thirteen was a day meant for celebration with her best friend. Instead, it becomes a day of profound loss when her friend unexpectedly dies, hit by a car while crossing the street. This tragedy leaves Sage feeling adrift and alone, struggling to cope with the absence of the one person who shared her secrets and dreams. Seeking support, she joins a counseling group with other girls experiencing similar grief, where she learns that loss manifests in many forms and that the healing process is far from straightforward.

Through her journey in the group and her own internal struggles, Sage navigates the complex emotions of grief: sadness, loneliness, anxiety, guilt, and pain, all intertwined with the enduring presence of love. Even amidst her sorrow, new and positive experiences begin to enter her life, offering glimmers of hope and the possibility of healing. 

 Told in a blend of accessible verse and prose, All the Blues in the Sky explores the multifaceted nature of grief and Sage's path toward self-forgiveness and growth, offering a comforting and relatable perspective for anyone who has experienced loss.

Naruto, Vol. 25: Brothers

Kishimoto, Masashi. Naruto, Vol. 25: Brothers. 2011. 192p. ISBN 9781421544816. Available in the graphic novels section of the library.

Having caught up with Sasuke in Naruto, Vol. 24, Naruto confronts his best friend in a fierce battle. Sasuke, driven by a desire for power to avenge his clan, remembers the past to understand how his older brother Itachi became the formidable ninja he is today. This exploration reveals the dark secrets that surround his parents' murders, a tragic event that shaped Sasuke's life and ultimately led to the destruction of their clan. Sasuke also explores why his father seemingly rejected him in favor of his older brother, and felt he could never measure up.

As Naruto fights Sasuke in a fierce battle, he grapples with the devastating realization that his close friendship with Sasuke may ultimately lead to his downfall, as Sasuke reveals that he must kill his best friend to acquire the power he seeks. As the two of them battle at the waterfall, who will come out triumphant, and at what cost?

The story continues in Naruto, Vol. 26.

Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Vol. 11: Double Down

Kinney, Jeff. Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Vol. 11: Double Down. 2016. 224p. ISBN 9781419725456. Available at FIC KIN on the library shelves.

Greg Heffley is feeling the squeeze from his mom, who is determined to get him to explore interests beyond his beloved video games. She's pushing him to find some other talent or hobby. When Greg stumbles upon an old video camera in the basement, a lightbulb goes off. He thinks making movies could be his ticket to proving he's got serious skills, and maybe even become famous and rich while he's at it.

Enlisting his trusty sidekick, Rowley, Greg dives headfirst into a plan to create a scary movie masterpiece. They start filming, dreaming of the fame and fortune that surely await them. However, the question lingers: is Greg's all-in approach to filmmaking a stroke of genius that will finally impress his mom and the world? Or is this ambitious project just going to create a whole new set of hilarious and likely disastrous problems for him?

STEM for All: How to Connect, Create, and Cultuvate STEM Education for All Learners

Bakshi McLean, Leena. STEM for All: How to Connect, Create, and Cultuvate STEM Education for All Learners. 2024. 288p. ISBN 9781394221448.

STEM education has often been lacking for minority students, for students learning English, and for students with a low socio-economic status. Yet educators claim to want to help every student succeed. STEM for All offers a comprehensive guide for educators seeking to improve STEM education and address the persistent achievement gap. Drawing upon the Connect, Create, and Cultivate framework from STEM4Real, practical tools and strategies for creating inclusive and engaging learning environments are showcased. Critical factors that impact student success in STEM are explored, including classroom culture, discourse, identity, family involvement, and equitable access to resources. Through real-world examples and case studies, the importance of addressing implicit biases and fostering a sense of belonging for all students is highlighted.

By identifying and overcoming the challenges that hinder student engagement in STEM, educators can create more equitable and effective learning experiences. STEM for All equips educators with the knowledge and tools to implement culturally relevant teaching practices, build strong relationships with students and families, and ultimately close the STEM gap, ensuring that all students have the opportunity to succeed in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. STEM for All is a valuable resource for teachers, instructional coaches, and school leaders committed to improving STEM education and preparing students for future success in a rapidly changing world.