About BC Books Online
BC Books Online was created for anyone interested in BC-published books, and with librarians especially in mind. We'd like to make it easy for library staff to learn about books from BC publishers - both new releases and backlist titles - so you can inform your patrons and keep your collections up to date.
Our site features print books and ebooks - both new releases and backlist titles - all of which are available to order through regular trade channels. Browse our subject categories to find books of interest or create and export lists by category to cross-reference with your library's current collection.
A quick tip: When reviewing the "Browse by Category" listings, please note that these are based on standardized BISAC Subject Codes supplied by the books' publishers. You will find additional selections, grouped by theme or region, in our "BC Reading Lists."
Description
Devin and Nadia team up with Bounce, Pema and Marcus as they all travel to Northern Ontario to watch their parents present to the Summit of World Leaders.
A swarm of politicians, lobbyists, corporate bosses and protestors have all converged on the summit to get their messages heard. A tragic accident just hours before their parents' presentation plunges the kids into their biggest mystery yet and sets them on the trail of a murderer bent on stopping their parents' controversial message from being heard. It's a fight against the planet's power players as the kids dive into the world of politics, uncovering how government works, the history of democracy, the influence of lobbyists and corporations on politicians and the potential of civil society to change it all.
Recommended Age, Grade, and Reading Levels
- Age:
- 9 to 12
- Grade:
- 4 to 7
- Reading age:
- 9 to 12
Awards
- Commended, CCBC Best Books for Kids & Teens, starred selection
- , Saskatchewan Young Readers' Choice Awards - Diamond Willow
Editorial Reviews
"Good explanations of some rather complex political concepts are woven into the story line, informing readers on topics such as the origins of democracy, the political spectrum, and civil disobedience. It's a slim book, but there is a lot packed into each page. The cartoon artwork is detailed yet clear, with colorful panels that nicely break up the text and action...A welcome counter to the superhero and fantasy tales that dominate the genre."
— School Library Journal
"Young readers will get a lesson on democracy as well as enjoying a good story."
— BookLinx
"A good introduction to many political topics, and lays them out clearly and concisely...For fans of the series this is a good pick."
— Resource Links
"An enjoyable story with educational value, this strong mystery is presented along with information about world politics, power, and the benefits of political protest for social good."
— Booklist
"Another educational thriller in graphic mode...The illustrations are rich in detail and chromatic with atmosphere...[and] there is also an enjoyable level of suspense...The point is well made: Democracy is imperfect but self-righting in its course."
— Kirkus Reviews
"The partnership of O'Donnell and Deas continues to excel at explaining complex ideas in a simplified manner and at an appropriate level for students to understand...Power Play has all the characteristics...[of] an excellent story; a strong author and illustrator, it is part of a successful series, has known characters, it contains an interesting mystery, and it is full political intrigue."
— CM Magazine
"A fun mystery in comic form that manages to address issues about politics, power, and speaking up for a good cause. The appealing cover and colorful illustrations are likely to pull students in while also throwing in important and educational political information."
— Puget Sound Council for Reviewing Children's Media
