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In this exclusive reveal, Scholastic shares the new ALA READ poster by Dav Pilkey.
Contrary to what most historical novels depict, people from marginalized groups have existed throughout the ages, and their stories were not solely ones of hardship. These authors are correcting that representation in historical fiction.
PREMIUM
Serafina and the Seven Stars
A strong addition to an addictive series that features a brave heroine who triumphs over the evil forces that threaten to destroy her home.
PREMIUM
What’s the Matter with Newton?
Ultimately, this feels like a tale told many times before, with little to reinvigorate the narrative. A very large collection might find a place for it, but most can skip.
PREMIUM
Superman of Smallville
A fun introduction to Superman for superhero fans, newcomers, and reluctant readers.
PREMIUM
Cassandra Steps Out
A good match for readers who enjoy stories about animals or psychic powers.
Author Griffin and illustrator Player touch upon social issues gracefully. The dynamic fusion of graphics and chapters makes this a perfect bridge between picture and chapter books.
PREMIUM
The Monster Squad
Purchase if there is a strong demand for early chapter books or if books for young scouts are needed.
A pleasantly spooky supernatural mystery. Fans of Mimi McCoy’s “Poison Apple” series or Trenton Lee Stewart’s “The Mysterious Benedict Society” will gravitate toward this selection.
PREMIUM
Little Juniper Makes It BIG
Pair with Marianna Coppo’s Petra or Qin Leng’s I Am Small for a storytime focused on self-acceptance.
PREMIUM
Pirates in Class 3
Pirate picture books abound, and this one isn’t likely to be discovered as any kind of hidden treasure among the lot.
Youngsters will have fun pointing out the various nursery rhyme characters and will be anxious to learn of Goldilocks’s fate.
Offering plenty of fun along with insightful commentary on topics such as environmentalism and the power of storytelling, this graphic novel is a must.
PREMIUM
Rise
Fans of Kendare Blake’s “Three Dark Crowns” books and Morgan Rhodes’s “Falling Kingdoms” series will enjoy this duology, as will readers who are looking for dark fantasy without lengthy and ongoing installments.
PREMIUM
Her Royal Highness
This will likely not be chosen by readers as a stand-alone novel. Purchase where the companion novel was popular.
PREMIUM
Before I Disappear
There aren’t many YA science fiction novels about string theory out there, and while this debut has its flaws, readers will still be drawn into Rose’s story.
PREMIUM
Girls of July
Flinn tackles tough subjects that elevate this beach read; a solid purchase for most libraries serving teens.
PREMIUM
Happily and Madly
Recommended for readers who enjoy the machinations of complicated family and romantic relationships; mystery and thriller fans can skip it.
PREMIUM
Hold My Hand
A delightful and important addition to collections serving teens, whether or not the first book is held.
PREMIUM
Island
Rather than the history of Rad’s family that is conveyed, readers will be left wishing for the side of the story they do not receive.
PREMIUM
How the Light Gets In
Readers will be taken along this journey of grief, loss, and healing. Recommend to fans of realistic romances.
Purchase where contemporary romance, particularly the author’s other books, are popular.
PREMIUM
These Witches Don’t Burn
Great for fans of Supernatural and the story of the Salem witch trials.
Fans of Jack Kerouac and the Beat Generation should dig the language, and those looking for a refreshing, normalized treatment of a triumphant lesbian love story may enjoy this tale of two true-blue betties reunited.
PREMIUM
Castle of Concrete
There is a definite need for books with Jewish protagonists. Unfortunately, this one, which lacks transitions and has the feel of a fictionalized memoir, falls flat.
A must-have for young readers with any type of behavior difficulty and their caregivers.
IMLS-funded free, online professional development racial equity curriculum is now available; Dav Pilkey and Scholastic try to "Do Good"; youth writer awards announced and more in this edition of News Bites.
There are mysteries, family stories, and along with the requisite beach reading, a few novels that tackle more serious issues, but summertime raises the temperature in all of these recently published middle grade and high school titles.
A series debut that may not break new ground but will engage readers with its fantastical mystery and honest depictions of relationships with family and friends
PREMIUM
Bad Hair Day
A tale of wild science packed with plenty of tongue-in-cheek puns that will earn a chuckle from emerging chapter book readers
PREMIUM
Awesome Dog 5000
Full of irreverent humor, this is made for reluctant readers and fans of the zany humor of Andy Griffiths and Dav Pilkey
With its impeccably developed characters and hard-hitting narrative, this is an essential purchase for teen and new adult collections.
Recommended for library collections where realistic fiction centering issues of family, friendship, and self-discovery are popular
PREMIUM
The Spinner of Dreams
Highly recommended; a great title for middle grade book clubs and school and public libraries
PREMIUM
The Oddmire, Book 1: Changeling
A must-buy for any collection and a title that will lead readers to other classic titles used as source material.–Wayne R. Cherry, Jr., St. Pius X High School, Houston, TX
PREMIUM
Taming of the Shoe
Filled with references to other fairy-tale characters and middle school humor, readers of cheesy tween romance will fall in love
PREMIUM
George and the Ship of Time
This kid-friendly dystopian satire’s gentle action, humor, and provocative questions about the future will engage readers familiar with and new to the series
PREMIUM
Beverly, Right Here
This is not a lighthearted book, but it is heartwarming and touching. Highly recommended
The book is well-named, as it is full of vivid characters and settings that are odd, curious, but full of delights
PREMIUM
Filigree’s Midnight Ride
This first in a new series is fun and accessible for readers who aren’t quite ready for Alison Hart’s “Dog Chronicles.”
PREMIUM
The Friendship Lie
Though all the elements of a good story are present, they don’t add up to a satisfying one
An exciting adventure about friendship overcoming the occult that gives voice to a forgotten historical figure, but stumbles in fully realizing part of the protagonist’s identity
PREMIUM
The Drone Pursuit
An entertaining fantasy debut that will appeal to sci-fi fans and reluctant readers alike
PREMIUM
Monster Club: Hunters for Hire
Gr 3-7–Best friends Tommy, Spike, and Karim are itching for an adventure, and they’re about to find one: their town has been overrun by gremlins, basilisks, and other dangerous and pesky monsters...
A beautiful but slow-moving novel that will appeal most to patient, mature readers of historical fiction
PREMIUM
Cape
Fans of fast-paced action adventures, computer science, and confident main characters will enjoy this series debut that is sure to fly off the shelves
PREMIUM
The Battle
Fantasy featuring people of color is sorely needed, and while this adventurous sequel could be read on its own, it’s recommended to buy both novels for kids who love action-packed science fiction
PREMIUM
Unstoppable Me
Parents and teachers of “kids who just can’t sit still” like Joyner’s own (she provides an author’s note at the end explaining her perspective) will likely find humor and camaraderie in the story, but actual energetic children will appreciate books that allow them to be involved in the story, to jump, play, and showcase their unique and awesome abilities
PREMIUM
Bunny in the Middle
This creative team parents three girls and here shares insights honoring the child who’s sometimes overlooked
PREMIUM
The Whale, the Sea and the Stars
Idyllic and soothing, this is a perfect choice for an older storytime or for one-on-one bedtime sharing
PREMIUM
Stop! Bot!
Yang depicts a group of people from different backgrounds working together to complete a task in this eye catching text; a solid title on teamwork and unity.–
PREMIUM
Vlad the Rad
Vlad’s dedication to skateboarding will inspire kids to commit to pursuing their own passions even in the face of possible challenges.–
PREMIUM
The Don’t Worry Book
Anyone working with young children will appreciate this gentle exploration of a challenging emotion
PREMIUM
Let’s Scare Bear
While the story line is slim, the arresting visuals and nicely cadenced text make this an excellent candidate for storytimes. Most libraries will want to add it to their shelves
PREMIUM
Goodbye, Friend! Hello, Friend!
From the author of The Rabbit Listened, this suggested first purchase title speaks to social emotional learning, views the passage of time and change through the eyes of a child, and allows a glimpse at the ups and downs of growing up. For young readers in all libraries.–
PREMIUM
One Dark Bird
A tool to teach both early science and math concepts, this picture book will be useful both in and out of the classroom
PREMIUM
Save Your Friends!
An interactive story to help teach young ones some creatures of the sea and how to help others
PREMIUM
Seraphin
Fans of stories like Up will enjoy this depiction of two people whose imaginations are big enough to carry them away from the mundane, predictable world
PREMIUM
What’s Your Favorite Food?
Highly recommended for public and school libraries to be used in programs and for circulation. This vibrant and fresh title is a winner
PREMIUM
Not Quite Snow White
A fast, feel-good read that affirms anyone can be a princess regardless of size or race, and, in particular, supports and empowers young black girls.–
PREMIUM
The Great Pumpkin Contest
This is an enjoyable and lighthearted story of friendship and collaboration for young children
An amusing, informational graphic novel–esque picture book that is easy to follow and will charm readers while teaching them about the ocean. Ideal for public and elementary school libraries.–
PREMIUM
Just for Me
Pair with Anna Dewdney’s Llama Llama Time to Share for a storytime focused on sharing. Recommended for large picture book collections
A fun and practical how-to that will find success in both public and school library shelves
PREMIUM
My Big Bad Monster
Though simple, this story provides a jumping-off point for conversations about self-doubt, creativity, and bravery. Recommended for purchase
PREMIUM
Colors
A beautiful book that will be a welcome addition to concept book collections and colorful storytimes
PREMIUM
Toby Is a Big Boy
A highly relatable (and reassuring) book for families with older siblings who feel the parental attention waning
PREMIUM
Qaqavii
The high adventure of the dogsled race and fascinating background of the Native peoples may be enough to keep readers of adventure stories interested in this coming-of-age tale
PREMIUM
The Year They Fell
Readers will find the characters relatable as they navigate the challenging time from senior year into adulthood following tragedy
PREMIUM
Mind Games
While this is a work of suspense first and foremost, romance readers will not be disappointed by the budding love between Arden and the boy with no memories. A recommended purchase for a high school or public library
PREMIUM
The Hive
A gripping immersion in social media gone wrong. Buy Marie Lu’s Warcross and Ernest Cline’s Ready Player One first, and consider this if there is money remaining in the budget
PREMIUM
The Everything I Have Lost
This high-interest, authentic coming-of-age novel adds an important perspective to young adult collections
PREMIUM
I’m Not Dying with You Tonight
Librarians will want to purchase this relevant and discussion-worthy YA novel
PREMIUM
Minor Prophets
A supplemental purchase for libraries where novels like Karen Russell’s Swamplandia! are popular
PREMIUM
Contagion
Fans of Michael Grant’s “Gone” series, Lauren James’s “The Next Together” series, and Emma Pass’s The Fearless will not be able to wait for the next installment in this survival story that is steeped in mystery and revenge
PREMIUM
We Speak in Storms
This sophisticated ghost story is recommended, especially where novels about grief are needed
Give this to fans of the podcast, as well as readers who enjoy Becky Albertalli’s Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda, Rainbow Rowell’s work, and Welcome to Night Vale. A first purchase for libraries that can’t keep romance or superpower books on the shelves
PREMIUM
We Are Lost and Found
A suggested purchase for libraries housing a special collection of LGBTQ+ works. For most libraries, give readers Robin Talley’s LGBTQ+ historical fiction or Adam Silvera’s novels
PREMIUM
Symptoms of a Heartbreak
A first choice for all collections. Give to fans of romance and medical dramas such as John Green’s The Fault in Our Stars
PREMIUM
Butterfly Yellow
While this is not Lai’s strongest book, the universal truths about the lingering aftermath of war make it one that will find readers
PREMIUM
SLAY
This book adds another layer to the Black Lives Matter and #MeToo narrative. Readers are invited to learn about the black experience in game culture through a compelling new lens. Exploring different versions of the African American experience, this is an important title for public and school libraries
PREMIUM
Suggested Reading
Wry, thought-provoking, rebellious, and predicated on the belief that the right book changes everything. This book is a school librarians’ dream, and the well-told story of a frustrated teen fighting for social justice will be a hit with young people, too
PREMIUM
The Merciful Crow
An excellent next read for fans of Leigh Bardugo, Kristin Cashore, and Moira Young
PREMIUM
A Match Made in Mehendi
Fans of Sandhya Menon’s When Dimple Met Rishi and Tanuja Desai Hidier’s Born Confused will enjoy this feel-good story. A solid addition to any library collection
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