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PREMIUM
Spencer’s New Pet
This clever and imaginative title lends itself to discussion. Highly recommended for public and school libraries
PREMIUM
My Tiny Pet
Fun and informative, a great addition to larger collections and best for a lap-sit or read-alone, to enjoy the details in the illustrations
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The Boring Book
This book was first published in Japan, and is sure to entertain self-proclaimed bored children everywhere, provide them with food for thought, and inspire a few chuckles as well
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Aunt Pearl
This story’s lack of context and the absence of any additional information for parents and caregivers results in a confusing and lackluster attempt to introduce children to homelessness. Readers would be better served by other books that address homelessness such as Michael Genhart’s I See You
Recommended for schools and public libraries. Students may enact and/or illustrate favorite stories or create original Nasruddin tales. Pair the stories with others about tricksters/wise men/fools from other cultures, e.g., Anansi, the Wise Men of Chelm, etc., and have children compare and contrast
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Why?
Illustrations and text meld to provide a rich one-on-one reading experience that will be particularly resonate for any adult who has cared for a child in the ‘why’ phase
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The Pirate Tree
A captivating adventure story for young and elementary-aged readers. Many children will relate, empathy will be promoted, and discussions about kindness, friendliness, and respect can be easily facilitated
A great selection for children preparing to see this ballet in person, or to bring the ballet to the laps of children for whom the live stage is inaccessible
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Twins
A fun and amusing picture book celebration of twinhood, great for one-on-one or small group sharing
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Looking for Yesterday
A wonderful choice for one-on-one sharing that demonstrates the value of science and contains a weighty message for both child and adult
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Spot & Dot
A worthy follow-up that stands just as well on its own, this warmhearted tale will delight the young animal lovers and fans of the search-and-find genre
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It’s Good to Have a Grandpa
These books are full of the warmth and affection that grandparents carry for their grandchildren. Recommended for most picture book collections
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Alfred’s Book of Monsters
This is a wonderfully creative and silly story for readers who enjoy spooky and quirky tales and may be an early introduction to some future horror fans
PREMIUM
Song of the River
The descriptive language draws readers in and envelops them in the story. A perfect choice for young naturalists and budding scientists interested in the water cycle
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Owen at the Park
Small in scope but evocative in impact, this gentle tale will have readers cheering at Owen’s success and yearn for a park adventure of their own
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Sweet Dreams, Zaza
A first purchase that will reinforce the ritual steps to observe before falling asleep. Sweet dreams are guaranteed
A great addition to children’s services courses in library school, as well as for staffers looking to rethink programming and what it means to be creative
Like a rock star’s greatest hits album, this lovely oversize volume will enchant Oxenbury’s many fans and be revisited time and again
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The Light in the Lake
A complex take on science, magic, grief, and family for fans of thoughtful realistic fiction in the vein of Kathi Appelt’s, Erin Entrada Kelly’s, and Ali Benjamin’s novels
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Ghost and Bone
This fun romp through the City of Ghosts will awe, delight, and creep readers out just a little. A solid purchase
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My Life as an Ice Cream Sandwich
Recommended for libraries that have a strong Ibi Zoboi readership, though the audience will be different here
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Broken Strings
A tale that teaches both history and compassion; a great choice for middle grade readers
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The Trouble with Shooting Stars
Luna’s journey to self-acceptance follows a formulaic path that some readers may find overly predictable, and the entirely white, upper-middle-class cast limits the book’s perspective. An additional purchase
PREMIUM
Someplace To Call Home
This historical novel about the importance of family, belonging, and kindness will do well among young readers interested in the past
PREMIUM
Emmy in the Key of Code
This unusual tale seamlessly weaves basic computer coding concepts into a compelling story about middle schoolers struggling to forge their own identities in spite of the expectations of their families and society
Smart, funny, and well paced, this is a solid purchase for any older elementary or middle school collection
PREMIUM
More to the Story
This thoughtful update of Alcott’s classic text features an American Muslim family and deftly balances issues such as microaggressions and cancer treatment with typical middle grade tropes such as sibling rivalry, a first crush, and an early adolescent search for identity
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Hoax for Hire
Martin weaves a wonderful adventure of hoaxes, legendary monsters, and the importance of family connections. Children will appreciate the creative and difficult steps the family takes to accomplish each hoax and the surprises along the way
PREMIUM
Rise of the Dragon Moon
A heavily articulated fantasy middle grade offering that may very well have readers rooting for the dragons, who seem to seethe and swirl off the pages. Fans of Erin Hunter’s “Warriors” series will enjoy the world-building of this quest-driven tale
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The World Ends in April
A fast-paced story that deals with grief, loss, and mental health through the lens of middle school catastrophe. Recommended
PREMIUM
Skyjacked
This riveting middle grade novel is full of excitement and suspense with every page-turn
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Count Me In
A solid recommendation for fans of books like Hena Khan’s Amina’s Voice and Gita Varadarajan and Sarah Weeks’s Save Me a Seat
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Oh, Rats!
This is a charming tale of finding oneself and choosing one’s own destiny. A solid purchase for most libraries
PREMIUM
Trucker and Train
The relationship between the trucker and other vehicles illustrates the complex dynamic of jealousy, admiration, and friendship among peers. A wonderful and fun addition to any library collection
PREMIUM
The Rhythm of the Rain
A lovely and accessible look at the water cycle and the forces of nature that support and perpetuate life on the planet
A fun concept book for the very young with a seek-and-find element for slightly older, more savvy readers
Ten cute chicks plus one lonely mouse equals a fun math story that can be used at various levels. A good general purchase
This enjoyable tale, well-illustrated with bright pencil and watercolor cartoonlike illustrations of the siblings getting into mischief, will be a hit where parents need to make quarreling kids see the funny side of their battles. For an unusual storytime, follow up a reading of this book by having the children play the puzzle game Royal Rescue
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SumoKitty
An expository tribute to the sumo wrestling culture, an additional purchase for most libraries
PREMIUM
Two for Me, One for You
Children will clearly understand and sympathize with the friends’ humorous conundrum. A delightful look at sharing and the problems that can result
PREMIUM
The Playgrounds of Babel
A lighthearted, child-centric framing of a biblical story told without any religious emphasis, housed in a package that is quite exquisite
PREMIUM
How Do You Dance?
This bopping, grooving picture book will inspire readers to get up and dance themselves. Recommended
PREMIUM
The Promise Basket
A lovely message of ongoing love even and especially in the face of difficult experiences
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One Red Sock
With eye-catching colors, sprightly rhymes, and a peppy protagonist, this title makes a charming addition to color-themed concept books. Recommended
PREMIUM
Simonie and the Dance Contest
A relatable story about perseverance and facing your fears, featuring a unique setting. Recommended for purchase
PREMIUM
What If Everybody Thought That?
This is a message-driven work but certainly a message that still needs to be delivered either in a classroom setting or during a parent-child teaching moment. A worthwhile acquisition
PREMIUM
Lionel and the Lion’s Share
A sweet story that teaches the lesson that sharing is the best way to make friends. Great for reading aloud
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Lili Macaroni
A comforting tale of self-acceptance following the tradition of Kevin Henkes’s Chrysanthemum and Patty Lovell’s Stand Tall, Molly Lou Melon
A first purchase for public and school libraries. Fine activities for home and classroom that will grab the attention of budding scientists
PREMIUM
Heroism Begins with Her: Inspiring Stories of Bold, Brave, and Gutsy Women in the U.S. Military
Conkling whets readers’ appetites to learn more about women and U.S. military history. This title is well suited for public and middle school libraries and could be paired with the young readers’ edition of Liza Mundy’s Code Girls or Ryan Ann Hunter’s In Disguise: Undercover with Real Women Spies
Stewart, the author of Mindful Me: Mindfulness & Meditation for Kids, has produced another book that is straightforward and refreshing. Recommended for purchase
The author gives an informative but slightly skewed cheerleader’s view of the innovator and entrepreneur. This could be useful for research due to the source notes and bibliography
This work is a mostly inclusive collection that relays gender identity information. Gonzales and Rayne treat their trans readers with respect and offer information in a down-to-earth and relatable way
A book that covers the general history of unicorns, ending on the present day cultural interpretation. For large collections with patrons who are clamoring for anything related to unicorns
Despite its flaws, this may find readership with those who need a personal perspective and are ready and willing to laugh about the topic. An additional purchase
This thorough history deserves a place in libraries in time for the anniversary
The book’s unbiased presentation is refreshing. Its focus on the human aspects of Watergate, equally so. Ultimately, Balis and Levy walk readers through the scandal with expertise. A compelling book that deserves to be on the shelf
PREMIUM
Awesome Achievers in Technology: Super and Strange Facts About 12 Almost Famous History Makers
This is a good purchase for school libraries and children’s nonfiction collections with the understanding that the paperback format and consumable portions may give it a shorter shelf life than some other titles
PREMIUM
Postcards for a Songbird
Wren’s vulnerability and decision to no longer play it safe will engage readers. A solid addition to larger collections
PREMIUM
The Thousand Steps
A strong, character-driven work recommended for readers looking for dystopian fantasy with a social justice bent
PREMIUM
American Royals
A fun twist on history as we know it, and the ending will have readers hoping for a sequel
A recommended purchase. Hand to fans of Markus Zusak’s The Book Thief and even Kurt Vonnegut’s Slaughterhouse-Five
PREMIUM
Gut Check
Even though the conflict resolution seems a bit pat, Kester’s debut novel will strike a chord with teens. Give to fans of Mike Lupica or Carl Hiassen
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Angel Mage
Though occasionally marred by pacing issues, this is a very interesting novel. Recommended for high school libraries and for readers looking for fantasy with a historical literary flair
PREMIUM
Just Lucky
A quick read with accessible vocabulary on a needed subject. For larger collections and those looking to add more books about teens in the foster care system
PREMIUM
Dear Haiti, Love Alaine
A strong offering mixing a romance, mystery, and adventure in a Caribbean travelogue
PREMIUM
Color Me In
A worthwhile addition to any collection where contemporary realistic teen fiction is in demand. Recommend to fans of Elizabeth Acevedo’s The Poet X
PREMIUM
Stormrise
This lush, epic fantasy filled with magic and dragons will circulate well among fans of Tamora Pierce and J.R.R. Tolkien
PREMIUM
Unpregnant
A story that effortlessly delivers difficult topics through humor and adventure, without taking away from their serious nature. It is a must read for fans of Gaby Rodriguez’s The Pregnancy Project and Diablo Cody’s movie Juno
PREMIUM
As Many Nows as I Can Get
Older readers will not be able to put this one down and libraries will find it in high demand
PREMIUM
Hello Girls
A smart, fast-paced, and immensely enjoyable YA take on Thelma and Louise. A first purchase perfect for fans of Jeff Zentner’s Rayne and Delilah’s Midnight Matinee or Kody Keplinger’s Run
PREMIUM
Fan the Fame
A worthwhile look at gaming, fandom, and feminism that will find an audience among fans of Jen Wilde’s Queens of Geek or Whitney Gardener’s Chaotic Good
PREMIUM
Ida B. Wells
Readers who appreciate nonfiction and biographies will enjoy the quick pace and suspenseful moments detailed in this look at the life of Ida B. Wells. Bailey’s writing is clear and accessible to young readers who will understand the perilous risks Wells took as she fought against racism
The authors do a good job of leveraging the purely aesthetic appreciation of pandas to fully engage readers in the text. Perfect for school libraries, this book was made for research projects
This charming introductory resource will inform and motivate elementary readers to participate in and learn more about South Korean culture
This book could make gardeners out of the most dedicated couch potatoes. A valuable addition to every activity book collection
An excellent introduction to the ideas behind Wright’s architecture. Use with K.L. Going’s The Shape of the World and Lynda Waggoner’s Fallingwater to learn more about the man who has been called America’s greatest architect
What truly brings this historical figure to life is the use of quotations from Collins’s own writing. An excellent addition to biography collections, with ties to STEM, U.S. history, and character education
This pleasantly readable biography of Antony van Leeuwenhoek illuminates the unexpected journey of a Dutch draper from anonymity to becoming the “Father of Microbiology.” Readable, informative, and a celebration of dedicated curiosity
With lighthearted illustrations and a hopeful story, this picture book translated from Hebrew offers an additional perspective on the events of World War II and the Holocaust
PREMIUM
The Secret Life of the Skunk
Young readers will enjoy the lyrical text and warm illustrations in this fourth book in the author’s “Secret Life” series
PREMIUM
Hooray for Women!
Children who enjoy reading the “Who Was?” series or are interested in comic-style novels will enjoy this book and could use it as a resource in school
While this story could be worth telling and researching further, it is not recommended. With some folktales, such as this title, the perspective is not always from the original people and yet is presented as “truth.”
A good addition for collections needing information on the evolution of women’s treatment in professional sports through the life of one of its greatest icons
PREMIUM
Nerd A to Z: Your Reference to Literally Figuratively Everything You’ve Always Wanted To Know
A treat for visually oriented and information-hungry browsers. A fine mentor text for studying how to effectively present information
Despite the efficacy of the author and illustrator collaboration, the historical facts remain somewhat sketchy throughout the narrative. A gentle title to add cultural insight to any collection, though possibly best for larger budgets
Recommended for biography collections wishing to incorporate some lesser-known and inspiring persons
A perfect addition to elementary school nonfiction collections where animals and search-and-find activity books are popular
PREMIUM
War Girls
A bleak but compulsively readable story with high action and high drama in equal measure. Perfect for fans of Paolo Bacigalupi’s novels and the Pacific Rim films
PREMIUM
The Truth Is
Ramos writes with intensity and poeticism in this fresh, painful, but ultimately optimistic coming-of-age novel. Notable for its up-to-the minute depiction of gender identity, sexual orientation, and race
PREMIUM
The Liars of Mariposa Island
Quietly powerful, this layered story full of unreliable narrators will appeal to readers of character-driven stories
PREMIUM
Ziggy, Stardust and Me
Give this one to budding activists, music fans, historical fiction readers, and romantics. A highly recommended purchase
PREMIUM
Have a Little Faith in Me
Readers will enjoy this quick-paced, well written friends-to-lovers romance taking place during an atypical summer camp experience, complete with pranks, hilarious banter, and teenage angst
PREMIUM
Bright Star
Recommended for fans of Rachel Hartman’s “Seraphina” series and Leigh Bardugo’s “Shadow and Bone” trilogy
PREMIUM
Permanent Record
Recommended for purchase by libraries serving older teens and new adults, or where Emergency Contact circulates highly
PREMIUM
Becoming Beatriz
Compelling romance with insightful commentary on racial, cultural, and LGBTQ discrimination alongside the realistic depiction of gang dependency and its impact
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