by SLJ Reviews

Dolley Madison and intrepid traveler Marianne North are but two of the engaging heroines who appear in this month's list of books we found star-worthy. 

With protagonists who are 18 and older, more and more young adult books are examining early adulthood. These realistic, historical, fantasy, and thriller novels will appeal to teens, with characters navigating the messiness of life after adolescence.

Whether celebrating Women's History Month or amplifying women's stories all year around, these 12 titles feature the inspiring stories of civil rights leaders, environmentalists, activists, and others at the forefront of their fields.

These fiction and nonfiction titles take on the embarrassment and discomfort associated with menstruation—while urging readers to take pride in their bodies and combat the stigma related to periods.

From first crushes to love of country, a grandmother's fiercely protective love to second grade boys finding the confidence to admit their feelings, we've collected a few titles we think your patrons will really fall for. 

SLJ's roundup of reviews for the winners and honorees of the 2021 Caldecott, Newbery, Printz, and more.

Black History Month is in February, but celebrating the accomplishments and talents of Black people in America and across the diaspora shouldn’t be restricted to the shortest month of the year. These poetry books are written and/or illustrated by Black creatives. This small sampling is by no means an exhaustive list but could be used as a jumping-off point to spark further exploration. 

In time for Valentine’s Day, these teen love stories center friends, enemies, and strangers who become something more.

Sometimes there are lines that stick out and linger, burrowing themselves in our memories. Here are some of these unforgettable quotations from this year’s Best Books.