Each year, a number of major bibliographies are published for use by teacher librarians and public librarians to build their collections in topical areas. The format, annotations, selection criteria and organization of the lists remain constant and provide users with excellent lists. These often end up in automated collection lists attached to OPAC systems. They are, of course outdated at the moment of publication, but are treasured as authoritative sources of the best. In tight budget years, more and more attention must be given to every dollar expended. The choice is always whether to buy an expensive published list or use the money to buy actual titles. These expensive lists are often best purchased and then shared.

Moving from picture books to chapter books with young readers is a challenge. Graphic novels have helped this challenge. This book organizes its entries by genre with suggested reading levels given. It is a challenge to the school librarian to stay on top of what is most up to date and what is most popular among kids, but this book helps organize titles in a way that can assist in targeting similar reads for kids to explore. This might help especially as this transition to more sophisticated reading is part of the equation. Problem is and will always be – these date so fast!
Bottom line: Well organized and a potential readers’ advisory and collection development tool. Get it if you need this kind of help. Recommended.