The Many Assassinations of Samir, the Seller of Dreams | 
This time last year, I met Daniel Nayeri when he spoke about this book with #MiddleGrade readers in a program I administer. He is... just freaking amazing. He's hilarious & smart & connected with the audience. Then over winter break, I had a chance to purchase art from the book by Daniel Miyares to display at work. This Daniel was also great. The book itself is such an adventure! Strong recommend.
pickA boy tells the story of how he came to betray his master to the Roman Legion who captured him in this fun historical middle grade novel. Samir is a storyteller, a "seller of dreams" who trades his highly exaggerated wares as part of a caravan along the Silk Road. The boy he rescues from being stoned by monks is not impressed with his lack of honesty and piety. But, as with all people and stories, the truth is a bit more complicated than that.
pickThis tale features parts of the philosophy of “The Alchemist” utilizing the humor and sense of fun of “Aladdin”.
