The Secret Library

It includes trans and queer characters, so know that before buying in case this conflicts with your religious views.

Actual rating 4.5.I don't read a lot of middle-grade, but this is what I expect when I do. I enjoy reading about young characters discovering the truth of the world around them as opposed to TV depictions of kids who seem to already have all the answers. Plus, I enjoy stories with unique takes on "the library" theme. I love that this isn't a secret library, but a library of secrets with a time travel twist.I appreciate that the main character's biracial status is explored as part of the plot and is a direct reflection of the many dualities young kids are often unaware of- seeing the world in absolutes. For a story written for kids, with a kid as the main character, it touches on some pretty intense subject matter, and I must give credit to the author for handling it well. At no point does the author overstep into the realm of YA, but she doesn't dumb things down either. She respects her audience enough to know that while 10-12-year-olds don't know a lot, it doesn't mean they aren't ready to learn.Themes of loss and grief are most prevalent throughout, but other topics such as economic privilege, injustice, identity, representation, racial oppression, and even gender inequality and more are touched on. Despite all this heavy subject matter, this is a fun and frolicking adventure tale, spanning from after-school hijinks to the dangerous high seas.For me, the main reason I couldn't give it a whole-hearted 5-star rating was that the end came too quickly and left some things glossed over. I wanted a clearer explanation explaining the details of Dally's heritage and connection to who she becomes at the end. How does her other life and family play into her role at the end of the story and her relationship with her mother? IDK.Still, it was a fun time, and you don't have to be a kid to see that.Highly recommended to fans of adventure, genealogy, mysteries, secret reveals, stories with dynamic and diverse characters, and or a strong female lead.

What a delightful romp through the centuries. This book takes time travel to a totally new place. I love the concept of being able to travel back in time to meet my ancestors and solve the mystery of my own life. What fun! The book is like a treasure map in itself. Twists and turns, never knowing what to expect on the next step of the journey but always keeping your head up to pay attention to what's going on right in front of you.I love the addition of all the acceptance of the LGBTQia+ peoples and even a fun twist with a woman hiding in plain sight as a man. Throughout history and in modern times, women have disguised themselves as men for various reasons, including social acceptance, career opportunities, and personal experimentation. In this case, this woman became a pirate and there wa sno way for her to remain outwardly as a woman. More power to her!This is a good book for the mid grade reader and would also be a fun out loud reader. It is creative and unique.

This is one of the best children's books I've ever read! I bought this for my 10-yr-old daughter, but the entire family enjoyed it. Lots of adventure, mystery, and some sci-fi/fantasy (time travel) to keep the reader intrigued. Some of the secrets I was able to figure out ahead of time, but I'm still stunned by some of the other secrets and plot twists. I'm so glad I took a chance on this book. It's a great addition to our library!

I couldn't put it down! Interesting story, relatable characters, unexpected but good ending. What more can you ask for?