Box Top Dreams (Delacorte)

Any minute now, Ari Spire will find out she’s not an ordinary fifth-grader but someone living a secret, thrilling life. After all, she was named after Ariadne, a mythical princess. She knows something special will happen if she just saves enough box tops, enters enough contest in the backs of magazines, and says, “Yes, I’ll send today!” Ari and her best friend, Danny, live in their own world of magic kits, movies, musicals, and amazing games. And then Danny moves away. Without Danny, Ari must face Martina Wallhoffer, Queen of the Fifth Grade. Being Martina’s friend is the worst thing that could happen to Ari–unless she comes up with magic that makes her strong enough to stand up to Martina.

“Mythological references are deftly woven into her narrative as this modern Ariadne wanders through her Minotaurish maze towards autonomy.” — The Bulletin, Recommended

“In the best tradition of school stories, this first novel features a well-paced believable plot, fresh characters, and some eccentric touches that keep the reader engaged…A satisfying, well-constructed story, refreshingly upbeat.” — The Horn Book

“The details of everyday fifth-grade life are authentic and funny. Ari’s foray into popularity is brief enough to be believable…An engaging and spirited first novel.” –School Library Journal

Halloweena (Atheneum)

illustrated by Victoria Roberts

When crotchety old witch Hepzibah is given a human child to care of, she’s horrified (”not a wart on her,” poor thing). And when after years of careful training in witchery, the child, Halloweena, asks for human playmates, Hepzibah is aghast. Nevertheless, she wants to see Halloweena happy, and as she tries to find friends for her daughter, Halloweena proves she is indeed a good witch-in-training by conjuring up a way to keep them both happy.

“A very giggle-inducing telling of an unusual adoption story…There’s a fine interplay between the droll text and Roberts’ wonderfully puckish illustrations.” — Kirkus

“Glassman enlivens her premise with witty wordplay and sneaky fairy-tale references.” — Publisher’s Weekly (starred review)

“A wonderful tale of acceptance and friendship.” — Boston Herald

“Glassman conjures up a strong and witty  voice.” — Feature in “Best New Books,” Family Fun Magazine