5183 Fall 2025 Information Resources and Services for Children discussion

Part 1: Add 1 fantasy book that you chose to read this week to the Goodreads group bookshelf. You do not need to add The Girl Who Drank the Moon. 

Note: You may not be able to add a book, if the book has already been added to the group bookshelf by another student. In this case, add the title information to your post.

Part 2: This week I'd like you to write on the fantasy book that you chose to read (besides The Girl Who Drank the Moon). 

1. A citation for the book in APA format.

2. A brief annotation for the book, no more than two sentences.

3. Your response to this question: Author Ursula K. LeGuin said that fantasy is not real, but it is true. Do you think the book you read is “true” in some sense of the word? Explain. Your answer to #3 should be about 100 words in length.

1. Turk, E. (2016). The storyteller. Atheneum Books for Young Readers.

2. As the Kingdom of Morocco faces a drought, a young boy discovers the power of a story through the tales of The Endless Drought and the Glorious Water Bird.

3. This book shows how a story can heal and transform in different ways as it is passed down from storyteller to storyteller. Just like in real life, the stories in this book teach lessons while also providing comfort and answers. While the stories we tell in real life might not be about magical yarn or threatening dust-storm Djinn, I think there is still a bit of magic in them. And just like in this book, stories serve as a way to battle against the hardships of the world. Because of this, while this story might not be “real” just as LeGuin says it is “true” in that it is a look at the role stories play in our own lives.

Gaiman, N., & McKean, D. (2006). Coraline. Harper Perennial.

Coraline is a darker children's fantasy tale about a girl who discovers a secret door leading to a sinister parallel world that mirrors her own. As she confronts the "other Mother," Coraline has to rely on her courage and cleverness to save herself and parents.

There are many examples that are "true" in this book. Coraline learns that courage isn't the absence of fear, but facing it head on. It also teaches the reader to be appreciative of what they have around them. She finds value in her real life, even though it wasn't perfect. There is also the sense of being careful what you wish for. Coraline got everything she wanted in this other world, but then it came at a price that threatened her life. These are real lessons but in a crazy world, and that I think is what makes fantasy books so appealing. It is a crazy dramatized world, but people face real/real-ish issues. I love fantasy now for this reason. I believe adding magic to real life is what draws young readers in, instead of only showing them realistic stories.

1. Gaiman, N. (2010). The graveyard book (D. McKean, Illus.). HarperCollins.

2. The Graveyard Book tells the story of Nobody “Bod” Owens, a boy raised by the ghosts of the graveyard after his family is murdered. In a world that straddles life and death, this book explores identity, courage, and belonging through a mix of humor and mystery.

3. The Graveyard Book is not real, but it is “true” in the way LeGuin describes. While the story is filled with ghosts, magic, and fantasy, the emotions at its core are completely human. Through Bod’s experiences, Gaiman reveals the truth about growing up, facing fear, and finding your place in the world. The graveyard becomes the place where lessons about love, loss, and courage are learned. Even surrounded by his ghost family, Bod’s feelings of loneliness, curiosity, and connection directly tap into what it means to be alive. The story reminds readers that truth is not only found in reality, but in our imaginations as well.

Citation (APA):
Lin, G. (2009). Where the mountain meets the moon. Little, Brown Books for Young Readers.
Annotation:
Out of love for her family, Minli takes a brave leap and sets out to find the Old Man of the Moon. The winner was Where the Mountain Meets the Moon. It has beautiful pictures, funny stories, and Chinese myths. Grace Lin paints a fascinating world full of good people, hope, and strange things.
Response:
In Where the Mountain Meets the Moon, Ursula K. LeGuin says that even made-up stories can tell the truth. The world Minli lives in with dragons and moon spirits is not real, but what she learns about love, bravery, and being thankful is. Like a lot of people, she just wants to help her family and figure out what they're here for. People who read about her journey are reminded that luck doesn't come from money or magic, but from people who care about us, are kind, and have hope. These lessons are made even more powerful by Grace Lin's use of fiction. She helps us see that the heart of a story can be true, even if its world isn’t.

1. Colfer, C. (2012). The Wishing Spell. Little, Brown Young Readers.

2. Twins, Alex and Conner Bailey find their world turned upside down when they are transported into a fairy tale world where princes, goblins, and wizards are real. The real issue, however, is how are they going to get home?

3. This book is a wonderful example of how fantasy is not real but can be true. For example, one important theme that can be found throughout the book is to be true to yourself. Alex and Conner both think they are a little odd, but as they meet other characters and have this great adventure, they realize that their oddities are important, and they make them who they are. Many children, especially those who might be reading this book will feel different from their peers at one time or another. This book, while not realistic when it comes to plot, shows them that their feelings are valid, and that they should always be themselves.

The Hollow Kingdom

1. Dunkle, Clare B. (2003). The hollow kingdom. Henry Holt.

2. This 2004 Mythopoeic Award winner follows Kate and her sister Emily as they come to live at Hallow Hill. When Kate is abducted by Marak the goblin king, her and Emily are introduced to the goblin kingdom and the mysteries and adventures that await them there.

3. Kate and Emily are first thrust into a whole new family on Hallow Hill, almost immediately mistreated and manipulated by people who are supposed to protect them. This is an experience many people go through, one where people of a higher status try to make them feel powerless and vulnerable. Then, just as quickly, the girls are taken to a kingdom that has a reputation of being horrible, only to find out that sometimes the creatures that look like monsters aren’t the real monsters after all. This book also shows readers that found families can mean just as much, and sometimes more than, the ones we were born into.

1. Collins, S. (2003). Gregor the Overlander. Scholastic Press.

2. Gregor stumbles upon an underground world that is home to giant creatures and a hidden human society. Trials of courage and destiny reveal that the world might be the connection to finding his missing father.

3. Although Gregor encounters a fantastical world with giant animals and a hidden society, its themes of human nature, finding courage in hardship, and the importance of family reflect our world in many ways. Young readers recognize the moral choices that Gregor must consider as he is charged with a prophecy and the challenge of searching for his father. On his journey, Gregor learns that strength often comes from being kind and remaining loyal to friends. While Collins’s fantasy world with giant bats and underground civilizations may not exist to us, readers can recognize the emotional experiences that guide Gregor’s story.

1. Alston, B. B. (2021). Amari and the night brothers. Storytide.

2. Determined to find out what happened to her brother, Amari is whisked away into a magical world filled with good and evil magicians. Will her newly found friendships help her survive this new world?

3. Amari and the Night Brothers definitely rings true. While we are being immersed in a fantasy world, we see and experience Amari's sadness at not knowing where her brother is. We see her thrive despite the oppression she has faced and prove to herself that she is more than she ever dreamed of becoming. Friendship is another important part of this book, especially after Amari and her friend Elsie feel like they do not belong. Overall, the book does not make the trials and experiences that Amari faces disappear when she discovers the Bureau of Supernatural Affairs. Her emotions and trials are real, and I believe that many children can relate to that.

Doll Bones
1. Black, H. (2013). Doll bones. Margaret K. McElderry Books.
2. Zach, Alice, and Poppy have been inseparable since childhood, and are on the verge of abandoning the imaginative games they've always played together. When they are drawn into a real-life quest to bury a haunted doll, their terrifying journey blurs the line between fantasy and reality—and their friendships are tested as they face the reality of leaving their childhoods behind.
3. I absolutely believe that Doll Bones rings true in the way Ursula K. Le Guin described. The actual ghost and the haunted doll add a creepy layer of fiction, but the book captures the universal experience of the painful, awkward moment when fantasy and imagination are forced to give way to adult pressure and shifting friendships.
The lie Zach tells his best friends, Alice and Poppy, about why he stopped playing their game—because his dad threw out his toys—is the most real part of the story. That struggle with shame, loss, and the fear of judgment is something everyone can understand. The frightening quest is a powerful metaphor for the terrifying step of abandoning our childhoods and navigating the complicated territory of adolescence and adulthood.

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone
Rowling, J. (1998). Harry Potter and the sorcerer's stone. Scholastic.
This is the story of an orphaned boy who spent his life being raised by family members that didn't want him. On his 11th birthday, he discovers he is so much more than his family ever let him be. He goes to a magical school and discovers himself.
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone is a very true story. The reality is lacking because there are no magical schools, or a wizarding world. There are no dark wizards threatening the world or magic powers, when we turn 11. None of this exists realistically. However, the truth is, these things can exist for every person in a more realistic way. From escaping child abuse, to finding friends who stay by your side, to getting accepted into a group or club, we call can relate to elements of the story. There are numerous elements that can be applied truthfully to our lives. Child abuse is real, and frequently school is an escape. Hopefully at school, we all find that friend who makes our life a little more bearable. These are elements of truth in a story that isn't real.

1. Gaiman, N. (2002). Coraline. HarperCollins Publishers.

2. Coraline Jones is a young girl who is introduced into a whimsical alternate universe when she finds a strange little door in her new house. This story is an eerie and unique modern gothic fantasy that stretches the reader's imagination.

3. This book portrays many true elements throughout about coming of age and resilience. Coraline Jones is a curious, independent, and adventurous young girl who feels lonely and misunderstood by her parents. She seeks change and adventure and is intrigued by all the mysterious things happening around her. I think the best portrayal of truth in this book is the relatable and strong female protagonist who faces her fears, meets new friends, and learns to love the life she has. I think the mundane, dreary, and dull vibe this story begins with is an honest portrayal of being a young girl and moving to a new place; however, the whimsical adventure makes for a positive life lesson in the end. This book is relatable for many readers, making some aspects of this story “true.”

1. Baum, L. F. (2010). The wonderful wizard of Oz. Oxford University Press.​

2. Follow Dorothy, a Kansas farm girl, through the yellow brick road on her magical journey in Oz as she befriends remarkable companions and grows through adventure while trying to find her way back home. L. Frank Baum’s classic children’s novel combines fantasy with themes of friendship, courage, and perseverance.​

3. The Wonderful Wizard of Oz is a work of fantasy, but it is “true” in the sense that it reflects and generates authentic human experiences and emotions. Dorothy’s longing for home, her friendships, and the search for qualities like courage and intelligence capture real challenges and growth faced in everyday life. Making connections such as actually being lost from home and finding inner strength and using critical thinking to find your way back can be a real experience that could be considered "true". Or another connection related in "trueness" can be one of a mental challenge where you are feeling lost and defeated due to a life obstacle that may bring you down, but it is up to you to overcome those obstacles with qualities such as courage and knowledge, or relying on friends and family to have a heart to help you emotionally or vice versa. Like Ursula K. LeGuin suggests, fantasy isn’t factual but expresses deeper truths about human nature and the world. Baum’s book reminds readers that even imaginary lands can reveal what it means to be "true" which can be to care for others, face fears, and become one’s best self.

Masessa, E. (2016). Wandmaker. Scholastic books.

Henry comes from a long line of powerful Wandmakers, but he can't seem to get his to work until he transforms his sister into a porcupine. Can he fix her and save the world from an evil wandmaker?

In Wandmaker, Henry deals with bullies, a sister who won't stop pestering him, and feeling like he can't seem to get things right. These are all things we can relate to in the real world. Many of us have dealt with bullies, an annoying relative, or feeling inadequate. Many fantasy books incorporate elements of real life into their stories to help us connect with and empathize with the characters. While Henry deals with challenges we would never face (like evil wandmakers and accidentally transforming his sister into a porcupine), we can still connect with what it feels like to face challenges and want to root for them to succeed, because, in a way, it feels like rooting for ourselves to succeed. If they can overcome something so big, we can overcome what we face, too. Fantasy is real in how it draws parallels to real life and draws us into it.

Howl’s Moving Castle
Jones, D. W. (2001). Howl’s moving castle. Greenwillow Books.

This fantasy novel follows Sophie Hatter, a young woman cursed by a witch to become an old woman, who seeks out the mysterious wizard Howl and becomes immersed in his magical world. This book blends humor, adventure, and romance, and explores themes of identity, transformation, and courage.

Le Guin’s statement that fantasy is not real but true is supported by Howl’s Moving Castle. The magic and absurdity of the story are fantastical, yet Sophie’s journey captures a very real truth about self-discovery and confidence. Her curse forces her to confront how she’s underestimated herself, and through courage and kindness, she learns her true worth. Though castles that move and wizards that eat hearts aren’t real, Sophie’s emotional growth and the idea that love and bravery can change us absolutely are.

1. Barnhill, K. (2022). The ogress and the orphans. Algonquin Young Readers.

2. In the once-prosperous town of Stone-in-the-Glen, now divided and distrustful, a kindhearted ogress befriends a group of orphans who remind the townspeople what compassion truly means. Through lyrical prose and interwoven perspectives, Barnhill crafts a modern fable about kindness, community, and the courage to stand against fear and greed.

3. Ursula K. LeGuin’s statement that “fantasy is not real, but it is true” perfectly captures The Ogress and the Orphans. While the story’s magical creatures and talking animals are imaginary, the themes of justice, love, and empathy are profoundly real. Barnhill’s depiction of a town misled by lies and fear mirrors contemporary society, where misinformation often erodes trust and compassion. The ogress’s quiet generosity and the children’s resilience reveal deeper truths about humanity—how communities thrive only when they choose kindness over suspicion. The fantasy setting allows readers to confront real-world moral questions safely, making its truth resonate even more deeply.

Citation:
Rowling, J. K. (1997). Harry Potter and the philosopher’s stone. Bloomsbury Publishing.

Annotation:
This novel tells the story of Harry Potter, a boy who discovers he is a wizard and begins his first year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. As he learns about friendship, courage, and loyalty, he also faces the dark truth about his past and the evil wizard who killed his parents.

Response:
I believe Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone is true in the sense that it reflects real human experiences and emotions. Even though magic, spells, and mythical creatures are imaginary, the themes of love, friendship, and bravery are very real. The story shows that doing what is right often takes courage, and that love is stronger than hate. Harry’s journey of finding belonging and purpose feels true to anyone who has faced challenges or tried to discover who they really are.

Van Allsburg, C. (1981). Jumanji. Houghton Mifflin Co.

Jumanji tells the story of Peter and Judy who are left home while their parents go out, under the instructions to stay entertained, but make sure to keep the house clean. Peter suggests that he and his sister play a new game, but as the game comes to life, bringing disaster to the house, faced with rule that the game will not stop until someone wins.

LeGuin's statement, "fantasy is not real, but is true" screams to life in Jumanji. While Peter and Judy are playing a simple board game, with the rule from their parents being to not allow the house to get messy, they allow their imaginations to run wild. Through each move of the game animals enter their home, volcanos erupt, storms begin, each step making a disaster of the home. Each messy move further encourages them to continue playing the game, thus allowing them to spend time together, fostering connection in a moment when kids sometimes feel alone, as their parents have left them at home by themselves. For a child, stay home alone, at times, brings uncertainty and fear; while playing Jumanji the siblings used their courage to push through fears and challenges together. As the game "ended" their parents returned home and found them both asleep.

1. Collins, S. (2003). Gregor the overlander. Scholastic, Inc.

2. After falling through an air duct in his laundry room, Gregor finds himself in the Underland, a world where rats, roaches, and spiders are larger than life and a race of humans have evolved in the dark. Picked to fulfill an ancient prophecy, can Gregor save the Underland, find his dad, and get back home?

3. While Gregor the Overland is not a “real” story (and thank goodness – I would never sleep again if 6-foot rats were battling beneath my house), it is full of truth in the way the reader can connect to Gregor’s story. The themes of loyalty, fairness, and love of family are present throughout the book. Readers are inspired to treat others with kindness and equality after reading how Gregor treats different species in the Underland that are normally “othered.” Most striking to me, the way Gregor cares for his sister along the journey is so touching that any parent or sibling of a young one will be inspired by Gregor’s love and patience as he faces tough situations.

1. Mafi, T. (2016). Furthermore. Dutton Children’s Books.
2. Furthermore follows Alice Alexis Queensmeadow, a girl born without color in a world where color is a source of magic. When her father disappears, Alice teams up with a boy she doesn’t trust and travels through the dangerous, rule-bending land of Furthermore to bring him home.
3. I think Furthermore is “true” in the way LeGuin describes because the emotional core of the story reflects real experiences even though the world is fantasy. Alice struggles with feeling different, overlooked, and unsure of her own worth, which are feelings many children face. Her journey shows how courage often grows from moments of insecurity rather than confidence. The magical setting exaggerates these challenges, but the message about learning to value yourself feels very grounded. The book also shows how trust and friendship develop over time, making the fantasy elements a way to explore truths about growing up.

1. Rowling, J. (2003). Harry Potter and the chamber of secrets. Scholastic.

2. Harry is going into year 2 at his magical school, but he and his friends find themselves in a new set of issues and problems as the school year progresses.

3. There are many aspects of this book (and the series) that are not real. There is the magical aspect alongside the continual threat and danger toward Harry as the villain grows stronger each year. However, there are many parts of this book that could be considered “true” regarding friendship conflicts and dealing with challenges/balances between school and friends. Harry has a horrible home life and is welcomed lovingly into Ron’s family. Because of his home life, Harry also feels more comfortable and belonging when he is at school because he feels more at home. These two things are unfortunate situations that some children must face in their own lives.

Zach Weinersmith. (2023). Bea Wolf. First Second.

Bea Wolf is a new take on the classic alliterative poem Beowulf centered around children. Rather than a man-eating monster, the monster in this story is an adult that ages children through his touch and has taken control of the children’s stronghold- Treeheart.

What I enjoy about fantasy stories is how they can address real-life issues head-on, but so cleverly veiled by myth and magic. This is what I believe the ‘truth lies” in fantasy. For example, in Bea Wolf, the monster of the story is an adult who hates fun and can turn children into teens and adults through his touch alone. Though this is clearly fantasy- there is a truth that to a child, the absence of fun and play is the ultimate crime and there is no fate worse than death- except aging out of childhood. Fantasy encourages our imagination to play with ideas, but at the same time- imagination must grow from truth.

1. Dahl, R., & Blake, Q. (1998). Fantastic Mr. Fox. Puffin Books.

2. Mr. Fox and his family are under attack by three evil farmers. Instead of giving up and running away, Mr. Fox and his friends decide to get revenge on the farmers by stealing their goods from right under their noses.

3. Yes, I do. Mr. Fox is a fox with a wife and son that are facing difficulties in life. They deal with familial difficulties, have friendly disputes with neighboring animals, and even face issues that are beyond their control. While we may never have three farmers praying upon our downfall like the Fox family did, we definitely have moments in life that seem very bleak and hopeless. Mr. Fox chose to face his problems head on and strategize on how to succeed. Preserving in the time of trouble is a very relevant theme in life. This book is a fictional story of a family of foxes and many animal friends, but the story being told is one that can be relatable to humans as well.

1. DiCamillo, K. (2015). The Magician's Elephant. Candlewick.

2. Intelligent orphaned Peter wonders deep down if his sister is still alive, but then receives what seems like confirmation through a fortuneteller. Peter takes a long journey in search of the truth, meeting some interesting people and, of course, a magic elephant, while also finding himself in the middle of other people's disputes.

3. The theme of The Magician's Elephant is very relevant to many children who find themselves orphaned and without siblings. The story takes readers on a journey toward truth by a young man who desperately wants to be loved and to feel a sense of belonging. Many orphans try to look for siblings or parents, and Peter is no different. However, Peter uses the help of things that don’t exist, like a magic elephant. However, Peter does use the help of real people, like a fortune teller and a magician. Peter finds his sister, but also finds himself in the middle of other people's life messes concerning the magician and Madam LaVaughn. This is true for many people who are affected by others' choices and how others choose to forgive. This story has a strong theme of forgiveness, love, acceptance, and belonging, all of which are real-life struggles people face.

1. Citation:
L'Engle, Madeleine. 1962. A Wrinkle in Time. New York: Farrar, Straus, and Giroux.

2. Annotation:
A Wrinkle in Time follows Meg Murry and her friends as they travel through space and time to rescue her father from a dark cosmic force threatening the universe. This classic science fantasy explores themes of love, courage, and the battle between light and darkness in an imaginative adventure.

3. Response:
Yes, A Wrinkle in Time is “true” in the sense that it explores real human emotions and universal themes through its fantasy story. Although the characters travel through other dimensions and encounter supernatural beings, the book’s core truths about love, courage, and the fight against fear resonate deeply. Meg’s struggle with self-doubt and her journey to embrace her own strength reflect experiences many readers face in their own lives. Ursula K. LeGuin’s idea reminds us that fantasy can reveal important truths about ourselves and the world, even if the story’s events are imaginary.

A Wrinkle in Time

1. Cowell, C. (2003). How to train your dragon. Rourke.

2. Hiccup and his dragon aren't very good Vikings, in fact, they're terrible. At least, that's what everyone tells him, but he won't let that stop him from trying! Follow along in the many misadventures of Hiccup and Toothless as they navigate the treacherous world of dragons and Vikings.

3. Even though "How to Train Your Dragon" is a completely fictional world, there are many elements within the story that make it "true." The intrapersonal relationships Hiccup must navigate are easily relatable to readers. Hiccup struggles with bullies and being a good friend, navigating school, and learning to work with others. These are all things children will encounter as they grow and get older. By framing these situations in a humorous and fantastical world, readers can learn from Hiccup's experiences.

1. Bar-el, D. (2013). Not your typical dragon. Viking Books for Young Readers.

2. Crispin Blaze, a young dragon, begins to wonder if he’ll ever learn to breathe fire like a real dragon, but it seems like everything but fire comes out of his mouth! Feeling discouraged, Crispin meets a young knight who is also not doing well in knight training. Together, they learn that their differences make them unique and that their abilities are valuable.

3. This picture book for young readers age 3 – 6 has many fantasy elements that spur a young readers’ imagination as they read about a dragon learning to breath fire. While a talking dragon who breathes bubbles, band aids, ribbons, and befriends a knight is far from reality, the theme of the story is real. The dragon and knight feel pressure from their families to be normal and meet their expectations of what typical dragon and knight do. What makes this story relatable and real is the theme that you don’t have to conform to societies or family’s expectations to be worthy and accepted. In fact, the end of the story when the dragon’s ability to breathe water saves the family from an uncontrollable fire proves that it’s our differences that make us special.

1. Lewis, C.S. (1950). The lion, the witch and the wardrobe. MacMillan Company.

2. Four children who are evacuated during WWII to live with a stranger, stumble upon a wardrobe that leads to a magical land called Narnia.
3. This fantasy book is true as LeGuin mentions about fantasy books. While there actually isn't a real world in a wardrobe, it's fun to imagine that there is. This story might have helped a child who was in a situation like Peter, Susan, Edmund and Lucy escape into a fun world for a while. It is set during a real period in time and has real events. Children were actually evacuated to live with strangers during WWII to keep them safe. This book is also true because it shows four different children use their individual strengths to help save a land. Lucy's friendship with Mr. Tumnus is a true representation of how everyone deserves a friend no matter what he or she looks like. There are elements of good and evil and making the right choice to help someone even if it's a hard choice.

1. Le Guin, U.K. (1988). Catwings. Scholastic.

2. A litter of kittens is born with wings, taking them from their humble beginnings to a place where they will belong.

3. Catwings resonated with me because the ordinary mother cat wished for a better life for her kittens. That must be why they were born with wings, so that they could fly away from here! The kittens do fly away, but they still face danger and mistrust from other creatures that they encounter. I think Le Guin means that although fantasy characters and worlds are often made up, the true emotions and life situations that they face are real. Searching, struggle, love, sacrifice, fear, and hope are all part of our experiences as humans and we can relate to them, even if they are expressed through cats with wings.

The Girl Who Fell Beneath the Sea

Oh, A. (2022). The girl who fell beneath the sea. Feiwel & Friends.

This novel follows Mina, a girl who sacrifices herself to the Sea God and enters a vivid underworld where spirits, gods, and curses intersect. The story draws from Korean folklore to explore themes of fate, choice, and the courage it takes to break free of old narratives.

I think this book is “true” in the sense that it captures something real about how communities inherit stories about who deserves to live, who is expected to sacrifice, and who is allowed to control their own destiny. Mina’s world is full of gods and curses, but the emotional truth of the story is about younger generations confronting old, oppressive systems and choosing a different path for themselves. Fantasy lets us exaggerate elements of moral reality so we can see them clearly. The magical setting of this story makes the truth easier to name: society often asks women and girls to bear the weight of everyone else’s comfort.

Rowling, J. K. (2015). Harry Potter and the sorcerer's stone. Pottermore Publishing.

Harry Potter embarks on an exciting adventure after learning that he is a wizard on his eleventh birthday.

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone fits LeGuin's definition that fantasy is not real but it is true. The book contains many elements that are not real: the story follows young wizards at a wizarding school who use wands, broomsticks, and play a magical sport (Quidditch). However, the book also explores the themes of belonging, good vs evil, friendship, courage, and bravery. Harry, who has felt unloved his entire childhood, found security at Hogwarts. He made friends who helped him feel like he belonged at the school, and grew more courageous with their help. This book also explored good vs evil through the interactions with Voldemort, Harry, Hermione, and Ron.

Riordan, R. (2005). The lightning thief. 1. Hyperion Books for Children.

Percy Jackson learns that he is no ordinary child; he is actually the son of Poseidon. With this newfound revelation he must now embark on a journey with friends Annabeth and Grover to retrieve a Zeus' stolen lightning bolt before the Gods wage war.

The Lightning Thief is "true" in the sense that it sticks heavily to portraying accurately Greek Mythology. For example, in Greek Mythology Zeus did in fact wield lightning bolts, and the Gods did meddle in the affairs of the human realm. The book is also "true" in its portrayal of the value of friendships, teamwork, and loyalty. Throughout the book Percy has to rely on his friends for help as he completes his quest to recover the lost lightning bolt. Along the way the friends encounter several Greek gods and have to rely heavily on each other to get out of some rather difficult situations. The book explores themes of friendships, good vs. evil, and discovering the type of person you are supposed to be.

1. White, J. A. (2018). Nightbooks. Katherine Tegen Books.

2. Alex’s passion is writing scary stories filled with ghosts, twists, and terrifying creatures. When he becomes trapped in the apartment of the witch Natacha, he must tell her a new story each night or remain her prisoner forever.

3. Nightbooks uses fantasy and magic to explore a theme that feels very real. Alex sees himself as an outcast, and his love of writing only deepens that isolation. Throughout the story, he learns bravery, the value of friendship, and self-acceptance. The witch’s enchanted apartment and fairy-tale parallels to Hansel and Gretel serve as a thrilling backdrop for a deeper message about embracing individuality and finding courage through creativity.

Fagaan, D. (2024) A Game of Noctis. Atheneum Books for Young Readers.

Pia’s life changes when her grandfather is taken away to live the rest of his life in servitude, and she must face the possibility of living alone and never getting him back. She casts her lot playing the annual Game of Noctis to win him back but is forced to reckon with the systems she is a part of and her dearly held “rules” that are supposed to keep life fair.

The truth of this book is that the rules set up to make life fair are often put in place to uphold societal systems that marginalize certain groups. The rules keep those folks from rising through the socioeconomic ranks and continue to disenfranchise them. Pia relies on the rules of the games and how they are “fair” early on in the book. She tells her grandfather that the game-script and rules keep things fair and gives everyone a chance to make a name for themselves, but after she loses her grandfather and she sets out on her own, she discrepancies between her faith in the rules and reality.

Dr. Buffy wrote: "Part 1: Add 1 fantasy book that you chose to read this week to the Goodreads group bookshelf. You do not need to add The Girl Who Drank the Moon. 

Note: You may not be able to add a book, if the..."



Pearson, R. (2005). The Kingdom Keepers: Disney After Dark. Disney-Hyperion.

When five teenagers become holographic hosts for Disney World, they discover that the park's villains, known as the Overtakers, are coming to life after dark. The group must work together to protect the park and uncover the mystery behind the magic threatening it.

Ursula K. Le Guin said that fantasy is not real, but it is true, and I think The Kingdom Keepers: Disney After Dark shows this perfectly. Even though the story takes place in a magical version of Disney World, it captures real truths about courage, friendship, and teamwork. The characters face fears that mirror real life challenges, learning to trust to one another, take responsibility, and stand up for what's right. The responsibility, and stand up for what's right. The fantasy setting makes these lessons exciting and imaginative, but the emotions and choices feel genuine. The book reminds readers and choices feel genuine. The book reminds readers that bravery and loyalty are powerful, no matter the world you live in.

1. Hahn, M. D. (2009). The old willis place: A ghost story. Brilliance Corporation.
2. Diana and Georgie live on the grounds of the “Old Willis Place” and set rules for themselves to keep themselves safe, but in the pursuit of a friend, Diana is finding herself more and more willing to break the rules.
3. I think that this story is true, even though they are ghosts, Diana and Georgie are still children, and have been for decades, so they still act like children. They’ve only had each other since they died, and Diana was getting lonely, so when a new caretaker and their daughter started there, she wanted to be her friend. Lissa was about Diana’s age and also wanted to make friends. Diana and Georgie had made rules for themselves to keep them safe: basically, don’t interact with anyone (dead or alive), don’t go in the mansion, and don’t leave the grounds. Diana breaks a lot of these rules, but I think it’s pretty common for kids to try to be friends with people, even when it’s not in their best interest. Diana befriending Lissa was dangerous for her and Georgie, and had consequences, but she ignored the rules so that she could have someone besides her brother to know, talk to, and have fun with.

1. Beck, M. T. (2023). The pearl hunter. Clarion Books.
2. In ancient Japan, twin sisters are separated after one is suspiciously kidnapped by a ghost whale. Kai, through many twists and turns, must find a magical pearl to bring her sister home safely.
3. The Pearl Hunter is obviously a fictional tale characterized by gods, ghosts, and magic. Despite this, the story clearly has some elements of truth. The main one that comes to mind is how real the feelings are that the characters are feeling. If my little brother were to go missing, I’d move heaven and earth to find him. Even in a fantasy world, human emotions still exist. It’s the heart of every story, and it’s how we, as readers, connect to the characters in the books we love. So at the end of the day, Kai might not exist, but her courage, bravery, and loyalty to her sister most definitely do.

The Phantom Tollbooth
1. Juster, N. (1961). The Phantom Tollbooth. Random House.
2. Milo is bored when one day a tollbooth shows up in his room. He rides a little car into the booth and comes out in a world comprised of letters, numbers, and other learning concepts.
3. This classic is a childhood favorite. I read the whole thing in one night when I was in fourth grade and it helped me develop a love of books. As for the truth hidden in the concept, I would say that this book imparts a true lesson about how important it is to learn and interact with the world. Milo is bored at the beginning and does not appreciate the knowledge he can find and use to enhance his life. By going through a world that forces him to grapple with letters, numbers, and learning concepts to progress, he realizes how useful and exciting those concepts are to his everyday life. In other words, he learned "knowledge is power."

Kate DiCamillo

1. Citation:
DiCamillo, K. (2013). Flora & Ulysses: The illuminated adventures. Candlewick Press.


2. Brief Annotation:
This hilarious and heartfelt novel follows Flora, a young cynic, and Ulysses, a poetry-writing squirrel with newfound superpowers, as they explore friendship, hope, and the extraordinary in the everyday. Blending prose and comic-style illustrations, the story celebrates imagination and emotional growth.


3. Since this is a work of fantasy, it is not true. The magic world around Flora and Ulysses being a superhero squirrel is not real. However, the emotions, determination, and goals of this story and other fantasy books like this are wrapped in real emotions and sometimes circumstances that push the character to elicit real experiences and consequences. In this case, there are real feelings of hope, loneliness, family conflict, and the healing power of words and connection are all genuine human experiences. So, while the story’s events aren’t factual, the truths about the human heart and the possibility of change are very real. Ulysses’s superpowers help Flora and others confront their own struggles and grow emotionally. The magic acts as a metaphor, allowing readers to see ordinary emotions in a new light and understand how people can change, heal, or find hope even when life feels impossible. This was a cute story at the end of it, and I enjoyed seeing Flora change and grow while being accompanied by her furry squirrel friend.

Seekers of the Wild Realm

1. Ott, A. (2020). Seekers of the Wild Realm. Aladdin Publishing.

2. Bryn has always dreamed of being a seeker just like her dad, but there is one problem - seekers are and have always been boys! However, developing a new friendship with Ari and finding a baby dragon might be the key to saving the creatures in her Realm whether she becomes a seeker or not.

3. This story is set in a magical fantastical setting called the Realm where there are tiny villages that trade and function much like societies today. The Realm is filled with magical creatures like dragons and plants that hold healing powers, but this magic is threatened by a group that wishes to take all of the power. The Seekers have historically sworn to protect the Realm and its magical properties, but there has never in all of history been a girl to serve as a seeker. When a position becomes open, a competition begins to fill the position, but since girls are not allowed to train, Bryn must pursue other avenues. This story, while fantasy, still holds many truths. It challenges gender stereotypes and roles as Bryn dreams of and pursues becoming the first girl seeker for her village. There are many parts through the story that are immediately applicable to a reader who faces their own challenges with gender identity and stepping outside of the expected box that society makes for us. I highly recommend this book! Bonus - it's an Oklahoma author, so that could lead to a cool Author visit for a school librarian in Oklahoma!

APA Citation
Collins, S. (2008). The Hunger Games. Scholastic Press.

Annotation
Suzanne Collins’s The Hunger Games follows Katniss Everdeen, a brave teenager who volunteers to take her sister’s place in a deadly televised competition where twenty-four kids must fight for survival. The story dives into themes like courage, sacrifice, and standing up against unfair power.

Setting Description
The book takes place in a future version of North America called Panem, which is divided into twelve districts ruled by the wealthy Capitol. The setting really shapes the story because it shows the huge gap between the rich and the poor, and how control and fear keep people in line. The world of Panem feels like an exaggerated version of our own society, where media and government power can be used to manipulate people. The setting isn’t just a background; it drives everything that happens and makes the story feel both futuristic and familiar.