Junior Library Guild selection, How to Save a Library, is now available in a quality paperback and is “highly recommended” by School Library Journal, Booklist, Kirkus Reviews, and Publishers Weekly.
Every year Casey’s life seems to be boxed up and shipped to a new city. His dad thinks moving is an adventure, but at this point, Casey is so over adventure. In Armstrong’s Point, Casey’s life finally feels stable. His talent on the soccer field has made him a natural fit with the popular kids and he loves the apartment he shares with his dad.
But when Casey discovers the local library, where his dad works, is in need of extensive restorative repairs, his future once again feels uncertain. In order to save the one place in the world that feels like home, Casey joins the Kids Community Action Network (C.A.N) where his team will compete for community funding. Unfortunately, this means working with Addison—a former friend turned not-so-friend—who isn’t going to make it easy on him.
Award-winning author Colleen Nelson weaves together a story of heart and humor, highlighting the power of libraries to bring communities together.
Praise for How To Save A Library!
A Junior Library Guild Selection
CBC November Hot Off The Press Feature
“Highly recommended for all library shelves as many resonant topics are expertly woven into one satisfying story.”–School Library Journal
“Nelson’s wholesome novel features short chapters that move quickly, making it a feel-good option for reluctant readers, library lovers, and kids who need a primer on the value of true friendship.”—Booklist
“[A] spirited story of friendship and forgiveness that serves as a love letter to the communities that libraries foster.”—Publishers Weekly
“An ode to public libraries and youth empowerment”—Kirkus Reviews
“Author Colleen Nelson has written a very engaging story that is filled with middle-grade drama, some nasty bullies, great friendships, and family issues that will keep young readers turning the pages right to the end…This would make a great classroom read-aloud as it would engender great discussions. Don’t miss this one.”—Los Angeles Book Review
“In [How To Save a Library], kids work together and host a contest for community funding. So you know what that means, don’t you? Activist kids!”—Fuse 8, Betsy Bird
“When Winnipegger Colleen Nelson writes a book, you know it will be characterized by strong writing, rich vocabulary and contemporary issues that kids ages 8-11 might face.”—Winnipeg Free Press
“How To Save A Library captures the highs and lows of Middle School life through the eyes of a reluctant hero young readers will be rooting for.”— Jean Mills, author of After the Wallpaper Music
“In [How To Save a Library], kids work together and host a contest for community funding. So you know what that means, don’t you? Activist kids!”—Fuse 8, Betsy Bird
“There were several threads of suspense that ran through this, and I don’t want to ruin any of the twists. I liked Casey a lot; he seemed like a solid Everyboy who is trying to live his life and not irritate people around him. He is active in soccer, gets along with his dad, is a good student, and occasionally has to deal with difficult relationships. Every school has jerks like Steve, and it was good to see that he at least apologizes at the end of the book. Addison and Casey’s relationship also makes sense; I wouldn’t have talked to Casey under the circumstances, either, even if Vivienne was more understanding. Many libraries are having difficulties, and avid readers will be invested in saving the Cornish Library. Readers who enjoyed this author’s Umbrella House will be glad to see another book about the importance of community from her.”—YA Books Central
“How to Save a Library is a good pick for kids who enjoy books about friendship drama, sports stories, family problems, and/or community activism. There’s even a cute subplot for animal lovers, as the library annually hosts a duck named Daisy who lays her eggs on the rooftop each spring and later parades her ducklings to the water. Casey is a likeable protagonist; his first person perspective brings authenticity to the story and provides insight into his feelings about the other characters and his motivations for the decisions he makes. Readers will definitely relate to him and his classmates as they navigate the muddy waters of middle school social life. Important lessons about learning to compromise, learning to apologize, taking chances, and being true to yourself are embedded throughout. Many adults play pivotal roles – parents, coaches, teachers, neighbors, and librarians – but they are mainly in the background compared to the young people.” —Youth Services Book Review
“Verdict: A moving and inspiring middle-grade novel that champions libraries, young activists, and the belief that every voice matters. Highly recommended for school and public library collections, especially as a read-aloud or book-club pick.”—Tahira Ahmed, Head of Youth Services Department Wyandanch Public Library.
