Unsettled by Reem Faruqi

Unsettled by Reem Faruqi is a 2023 RICBA nominee. Unsettled is about a young girl named Nurah. She moves to the United States from Pakistan and is a Muslim. It is hard for her to feel like she fits in in Georgia, where there are very few people who look like her. But in the water, on the swim team, she hopes to be the best. She admires her big brother, who is a star swimmer. Until... something happens that throws both Nurah and her brother into the deep end of trouble.

This story deals with some difficult issues, such as bullying, sibling rivalry and betrayal. Everyone can relate to feeling different, alone, and unsettled. The story is told through simple, heart breaking poems.

Reviewed by Mrs. Castro
 

Otherwise Known As Sheila the Great by Judy Blume

Otherwise Known as Sheila the Great by Judy Blume is an awesome book.  Judy Blume is my favorite author.  If you like exciting, and funny books, this book is just right. Otherwise Known as Sheila the Great is about a girl named Sheila who doesn’t know how to swim.  Her mom signs her up for lessons and it doesn’t go how she expects.  She feels that everyone has a special talent but her.  Sheila meets a girl named Mouse and they become best friends.  Mouse can yo-yo better than anyone. Read to find out if Sheila learns how to swim.

Book reviewed by Sugar Cookie 123