Unboxing Libby
For middle grade readers – available now!
Max isn’t always sweet and bubbly. That wouldn’t be an issue except for the fact that she’s programmed to be. “Max” isn’t even her real name. She’s a Libby– one of the most popular A.I.Cademy Girl social robots, which top the sales charts for girls ages eight to twelve. They look almost human and there’s a companion to fit every personality. Wendys are smart. Robins are sporty. Noras are artistic. And Libbys? As the box they come in says: Always chipper, cheerful, and sweet, Libby(TM) makes the perfect friend.
But despite her packaging and her programmed memories, Max is feeling the opposite of perfect. The only thing she wants to know is why. But this question uncovers bigger answers than she bargained for – like the shocking fate of the other A.I.Cademy Girls, and what the founders of their idyllic community are really hiding. Max may not be the perfect Libby, but she’ll have to embrace what makes her uniquely Max to save herself and her friends before they’re all sent to the junkyard.
“Cherrywell has crafted a riveting sf dramedy, complete with cautionary observations of our modern society, packaged neatly in a sweet (AI) teen’s POV. Between chapters, advertisements describing the book’s androids as products adds humor in a smart satirization of marketing, inviting readers to read between the lines. Any fan of friendship stories will adore this tale of a preteen robot finding her true self.”―Booklist, starred review
Order from Bookshop – Libro.fm – Barnes and Noble – Target – Amazon or visit your local bookstore or library!
For complimentary signed bookplates or bookmarks, please email me via the contact page.
The Ink Witch
For middle grade readers, available now!
Becca Slugg is bored. It’s the tail-end of summer and it feels like she’s done nothing but run errands for her family’s Cape Disappointment Beach Inn, argue with her frustratingly overprotective mother, and have one-sided conversations with the giant spider living by the dumpsters out back.
But Becca’s wish for anything to happen backfires when her mom receives an unwelcome visit from her sinister and estranged sister Malatrice. While hiding, Becca overhears the two of them quarrel and discovers that she’s the niece of one of the most powerful witches in the country – and the daughter of a powerless one. When her mom refuses to help Malatrice take control of the family throne, Becca is left with a mindless puppet for a mother and a whole lot of questions – like, can I cast spells with the ink in my veins, too?
With the help of Natalya, her mother’s tarantula familiar, and Oddvar, a friendly troll living in the motel’s ice machine, a distraught but determined Becca sets out to uncover her own magical abilities and find the ingredients of a potion that will cure her mother. Besides, how hard can it be to find mermaid eggs, troll teeth, and the most precious possession of a Witch Queen?
“This fast-paced, laugh-out-loud fantasy will appeal to fans of Roald Dahl and Terry Pratchett. Overflowing with evocative sensory descriptions, the top-notch worldbuilding includes unique creatures and locations and a creative magic system. Humor and heart entwine in this hilarious and wildly creative adventure.”―Kirkus Reviews, starred review
Order from Bookshop – Barnes and Noble – Target – Amazon or ask your local bookstore or library!
For complimentary signed bookplates or bookmarks, please email me via the contact page.
Pepper Penwell and the Land Creature of Monster Lake
Teen sleuth Pepper Penwell sets out to find a missing person in the quaintly twisted community of Monster Lake. Monster Lake has a monster, but it’s not a lake monster. It’s a land monster. More of a land creature, actually. Anyway, it’s probably just a myth.
This graphic novel is for YA and up readers and is long out of print, but used copies are pretty easy to dig up!
Widgey Q. Butterfluff
A sparkly, fluffy thing named Widgey is here to cheer you up and save the day with smiles, sunshine, and a truckload of sugar!
This graphic novel is also aimed at YA and up readers (it’s not at all for kids, despite the cover!) and is also long out of print. If you’re looking for a copy, message me via the contact page – I have plenty of extras!
Steph Cherrywell 