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PREMIUM
Pick a Pumpkin
While this books focuses on making a jack-o’-lantern from beginning to end, it also covers the Halloween traditions of scary decorations and trick-or-treating. Perfect for storytime and a good addition to your Halloween books.
You want something high class and snazzy? You know who to turn to. Today I sit down (virtually) with Marilyn Singer and I pull no punches, people! Good thing I really like today's book.
In case you missed it! The National Book Award long lists are out. Which books made the cut in the Young People’s Literature category? The long list will be pared down to the finalists on October 8th, and the winner will be announced on November 20th.
Here's a new idea. Let's see what you think of it. We're all familiar with "blog tours" at the moment. Heck, I'm hosting one today. The "blogger blitz" is a little different. Essentially, a publisher takes a high quality author (say, one Remy Lai of the magnificent 2019 release Pie in the Sky) then, instead of releasing their new cover on a single site, does so across the internet on a plethora of them. Today, I am one of a hoard.
First Second's line of Science Comics looks at the not-so-humble cat, from prehistory to the domestic breeds of today.
Be ready to lose a day once you start reading; Mabel and Agnes will draw you into their worlds and not release their grip on you even after the last page. A lovely story that is sad and hopeful all at once.
We live in a country where gun violence is shockingly normalized. Award-winning author Michelle Roehm McCann tackles the topic of gun violence through a community and national lens in this excerpt from her new book, Enough Is Enough: How Students Can Join the Fight for Gun Safety.
Do you hear that grinding and clanking of gears? That's the ALA YMA prediction machines getting ready to blast us with the full force of their knowledge and expertise. Here then, are thoughts on the Newbery/Caldecott announcements coming this January. Whee!
SLJ kicks off our monthly awards season column, Pondering Printz, with commentary and predictions on who might take the highest honor for YA books, the 2020 Michael L. Printz Award.
A new Raina Telgemeier story and a book about a girl who can communicate with animals lead this week's list of new releases.
Cynthia Kadohata, Gary D. Schmidt, and Kevin Henkes have earned Newbery recognition in past years. Could their most recent books be contenders for the 2020 Medal?
Who Wet My Pants?By Bob SheaIllustrated by Zachariah O’Hora Little, Brown ISBN: 9780316525213$17.99Grades K-2Out September 17, 2019 *Best New Book* Find it at:Schuler Books | Your Library When I was in first grade I peed my pants at school. It happened near the end of the day, and I managed to sneak out of school […]
Treat your students to humorous twists on familiar characters and beloved series books, with lesson ideas for the latest in Mo Willems's Pigeon series and Dan Santat's Harold & Hog Pretend for Real!
Among these 10 titles include Laurie Halse Anderson's memoir, historical fiction from Laura Ruby, and a collaboration between Kwame Alexander and Kadir Nelson.
Young sports fans will have a field day exploring 100-plus biographies of popular athletes compiled here.
A YA debut novel and two works in verse are among the books longlisted for the 2019 National Book Award for Young People’s Literature.
Refresh your lapsit collections and storytime repertoire with these warm and whimsical titles for babies and toddlers.
Thank you for all who have been talking to us via the Comments in the past week. Please continue engaging on book discussion posts in the coming weeks/months. At this time, Steven, Annisha, and I would love to see more reader suggestions. Since we will start the official “nomination” process in a month or so, […]
Kyo Maclear and Byron Eggenschwiler reveal the music genre best-suited to provide the soundtrack to the lives of teenagers in their innovative and excellent Operatic
As Hispanic Heritage Month kicks off on September 15, here’s SLJ’s coverage of titles for kids, tweens, and teens with Latinx creators and characters. Our roundup of this year’s reviews and interviews features #OwnVoices creators and books that center Latinx experiences.
Humanity has been turned to stone. Its only hope is a teenage who believes in the power of science.
We are so excited to be able to offer even more perspectives this year here at Heavy Medal! Annisha, welcome welcome welcome! Roxanne: Now that we’ve had been reading the many reader suggestions (more than 60 titles!), perhaps we could each pick 2 or 3 that we would love to see advance far in the […]
It’s time for another roundup for new and forthcoming YA (and sometimes not YA) books featuring LGBTQIA+ characters. Get ready to do some collection development!
Set in contemporary Seattle with a Suquamish/Duwamish protagonist, Day (Upper Skagit) highlights a historical injustice by writing a book a kid might actually enjoy reading. No mean task. I think I may have devoured it entirely in one sitting.
Wildheart: The Daring Adventures of John MuirWriter: Julie BertagnaArtist: William GoldsmithYosemite Conservancy; $17.99 One of the most challenging aspects of writing a biography must be deciding what to leave out. It must be doubly so when the subject has had a particularly long, full and influential life, one replete with compelling, must-tell anecdotes and an […]
I absolutely loved this book. It’s smart, funny, sweet, sad, cute, and thoughtful in all the best ways.
For 25 years, Mexicans and Americans have celebrated "La Posada Sin Fronteras" (Inn without Borders) in Friendship Park. This is a Christmas tradition, which means that Mitali Perkin's newest book, BETWEEN US AND ABUELA, is a different kind of Christmas story. I find out why she chose to write it.
These 10 autumnal titles, while featuring ghosts and goblins, are also full of funny and tender moments that celebrate harvests, families, and child-friendly fun. All are perfect for Halloween sharing.
My name is Annisha Jeffries and I am the Youth Services Manager at the Cleveland Public Library. Since this is my first blog post, I wanted to introduce myself. I have worked at the Cleveland Public Library for over 23 years, I currently chair the Norman A. Sugarman Children’s Biography Award, which is given biennially […]
What happens when you discover your whole life has been a lie and that you were raised in a cult? The Liar's Daughter is a compassionate and engaging exploration of the psychological trauma of being raised in a cult.
Titles from IDW Publishing and Nobrow-Flying Eye Books make the picks from this week's new comic releases.
Guts doesn't need a review to let people know they should read it - fans of her past work are chomping at the bit. But when it's this good, I can't help myself.
Jen Wang's childhood experiences and eye for detail informed Stargazing, her new graphic novel about an unlikely friendship.
Although not necessarily modelling ideal parenting, this title is sure to please children whether or not they want a pet of their own. Readers will find Ginny’s adventures and the tone of the text a hoot.
PREMIUM
The Itty-Bitty Witch
A Halloween-themed mixed-bag about being different and using that difference to win the big race. Purchase as needed.
PREMIUM
Oscar Seeks a Friend
This is a delightfully unique and heartwarming story about friendship that is excellent for any library serving young children.
PREMIUM
Ghastly Ghosts
Bateman plays with the frightening horror tropes of isolation and creepy old cabins but gives them a child-friendly spin in the end. Recommended for anyone who wants an eerie tale with a cheery ending.
A collection of creepy stories perfect for children who want a good scare!
PREMIUM
Pumpkin Orange, Pumpkin Round
A safe bet for libraries looking for autumnal and Halloween-themed picture books for the youngest patrons.
PREMIUM
Give Me Back My Bones!
For preschool and kindergarten students curious about the inner workings of the human body, this is an engaging seasonal introduction to one aspect of it.
This change to the traditional ending adds a warm element of familial acceptance. Recommended for a Halloween storytime.
PREMIUM
Giracula
Rough around the edges, but possibly appealing to fans of giraffes, vampires, or protagonists with a sweet tooth.
Invite students to interact with three recent books in innovative ways to spark joy and encourage play.
Travis: The first episode of The Yarn went live on August 17, 2015. Here we are four years later at episode 100. In this extended episode, Colby and I discuss the evolution of the show, including our favorite, not-so-favorite, and funniest moments from the show. We hope you enjoy this episode. Subscribe to catch every episode: […]
I usually keep news about the The Yarn over on The Yarn blog, but when you hit the 100 episode mark, it must be shared everywhere. So how do Colby and I make the 100th episode special? How about a podcast all about what goes on behind the scenes of the podcast? We spill the […]
Can you guess the classic children’s book by its scathing one-star review on Goodreads or Amazon? I was very disappointed in the language of this book: “Cats go meow,” and “George went meow.” I am fighting against this ungrammatical usage of the words, “go” and “went” constantly. I can’t believe the editor let this slip, […]
Heavy Medal returns for a 12th year of book discussion and Newbery predictions. Here's a quick look at what the next several months of our Mock Newbery blog will look like...
As a fun way to learn about the universe and its various parts, this book makes for an excellent first purchase.
PREMIUM
If Elephants Disappeared
Readers will learn the important roles that elephants play in their ecosystem, while also becoming more aware of the need for the protection and conservation of one of the largest land mammals. A solid, resonating addition to Williams’s series.
PREMIUM
Friend or Fiction
This contemplative fantasy has plenty of character development and touches of magical realism. Offer to fans of Kate Messner and Sarah Weeks.
A great introduction to the photography of Dorothea Lange; a must-have for your Dust Bowl units.
A first purchase, this picture book and cookbook mashup celebrates community, food, and culture.
PREMIUM
The House at the End of the Road
A sweet intergenerational story with gorgeous illustrations. The message that it is necessary to look past first appearances is one that is sure to resonate with parents and caregivers.
I don’t know what it took to make Mr. Nogginbody come into the world, but whatever confluence of the planets allowed this madcap exercise in increasing hijinks to happen, I say let’s have more of it! In a sea of picture books that remain unmemorable five minutes after you’ve read them, Mr. Nogginbody hits the nail on the head. Hard.
Teachers in a variety of disciplines could easily use this title as a jumping-off point for a similar project that would encourage students to explore themselves and their relationships with others.
PREMIUM
Life Is Short and Then You Die: Mystery Writers of America Presents First Encounters with Murder
While all of the selections are well written and interesting, there are few surprises in these short stories.
Vivacious, reader-friendly, and openhearted, Anderson’s spirited fairy-tale spin-off beckons legions of unwittingly extraordinary fans.
Based on the animated series, this brand-building venture nonetheless carries a lot of humor, heart, and positive messages for young superhero fans.
PREMIUM
Curse of the Dead-Eyed Doll
Part of the “Haunted States of America,” this title isn’t a very engaging contribution to a potentially intriguing series. Readers who really want a scare could check out books by Mary Downing Hahn or Betty Ren Wright.
PREMIUM
Running Wild
With a plot and character traits akin to Gary Paulsen’s Hatchet, Scott O’Dell’s Island of the Blue Dolphins, and Julia Alvarez’s How the Garcia Girls Lost Their Accents, this would be an excellent addition to middle grade libraries.
This book board duo is a great addition to collections everywhere.
Travis: Throwing it back to when Colby interviewed Rebecca Stead about Goodbye Stranger. We hope you get a chance to listen (or re-listen) to this episode.
Bruno Enna and Fabio Celoni cast Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck in Dracula and Frankenstein, the strongest offerings yet from the Dark Horse-published Disney adaptations of works of classic literature.
Though a bit of a disappointment, I still think this is worthwhile to have in collections just for the fact that it makes history accessible to readers who may otherwise give it a pass and because it does a worthy job of educating readers' on this awful pandemic.
I believe I've noticed a significant uptick in translations recently. To what do I owe this marked increase? Whatever the case, I like what I'm seeing. I particularly like what I'm seeing on today's list of titles so sit back and enjoy some international fare that's truly worth locating.
My reading has been a bit morbid this summer. I finally finished the adaptation of Anne Frank’s Diary. I’ve read 2 accounts of the Japanese Internment. I’m in middle of a story about Nazi Saboteurs and to round it all out, I picked up another graphic novel about the Holocaust.
These 30 audiobooks will appeal to listeners from preschool through high school.
This is a fun, standout story about self-examination, self-discovery, friendship, sex education, consent, and honesty.
Folks, I like self-promotion just about as much as I like yanking hanks of hair out of my head. But look, I can promote a book a lot better when I have someone as magnificent as Dan Santat in my corner. Today, I am pleased as punch to announce the publication of my brand spanking new picture book THE GREAT SANTA STAKEOUT! Is it too early for Christmas?
StargazingBy Jen WangColor by Lark Pien FirstSecond (Macmillan) ISBN: 9781250183880$12.99 (PBK)Out September 10, 2019 *Best New Book* Find it at:Schuler Books | Your Library Sometimes friendships don’t make sense from the outside. Think about your friends from when you were a kid. Sure there are the pals who were a lot like you, but I’m […]
I can't just do a cover reveal of a title without getting the lowdown on the book in question. So I shot some questions in Anne Nesbet's general direction and she was happy enough to oblige me with answers.
Because of the Rabbit, by Cynthia Lord, is a perfect read aloud to launch a school year full of book and character explorations.
James Brandon's debut YA novel Ziggy, Stardust and Me is set in 1973, when being gay was considered a mental illness. Sixteen-year-old Jonathan undergoes conversion therapy but finds comfort in music and in Web, an American Indian boy who isn't ashamed of his sexual identity. Brandon talks to SLJ about David Bowie's queer legacy, overcoming shame, and how the events of 1973 echo in our world today.
Grandparents loom large in young children's lives, and storytimes featuring these beloved family members are especially welcome as Grandparent's Day (September 8) nears.
Sharon Robinson is more than just the daughter of famed baseball player Jackie Robinson. The author of Child of the Dream (A Memoir of 1963) hopes to "inspire a new generation of activists and empower children to lift their voices against the injustices in their lives."
A British book just snuck into the pack. When I picked it up from the library for Kate to read, I was positive that what we had on our hands was an American title through and through. Not as such. This book is not without its controversial elements, but in my own personal library the only edition available was the reprinted 2015 edition. And, as you will see, that is probably for the best.
DC Comics and Toon Books celebrate two very different animals in the picks from this week's comics list.
In this first op-ed essay in a series that asks different authors to muse on writing and reading in our current political climate, award-winning and best-selling author Laurie Halse Anderson lays out the need for writers, librarians, and educators to "do the work" of antiracism, decolonizing our shelves and our souls.
Everything I've learned about advocating for my children I've learned being a teen librarian
When considering videos for classroom use, finding a balance between current topics, top-notch information, and engaging delivery means the difference between media that sparks an eye roll and content that comes across as genuine, thereby captivating viewers and inspiring intelligent discussion. Here are 15 strong selections for library collections.
Tate’s sprawling work is a fascinating guide that belongs in all middle school, high school, and public libraries. This resource will help tweens and teens looking to better understand death and dying for personal or academic purposes.
PREMIUM
Life: The First Four Billion Years: The Story of Life from the Big Bang to the Evolution of Humans
Libraries who choose to purchase this book will want to make sure they have shelves to accommodate its large trim size (11 7/16” x 13 7/8” in) or create space on a table where it can be easily browsed. A useful purchase for libraries that want to spruce up their science nonfiction collection in a giant way.
A formidable introduction for a middle schooler interested in philosophy and a reference book that offers more than Wikipedia. Strongly recommended for middle school libraries looking for high quality nonfiction reference books.
The attached mini-projects are a weak link, but upper elementary grade STEM students will benefit from this wide-angled overview of modern and future technology.
Eltahawy is thought-provoking and uncompromising. Young women who especially respond to Eltahawy’s voice can use the author’s ideas to create their own brand of feminism.
There is no way this book could make everyone happy as its topics are so contentious and so broad, but Doeden tries by presenting well-researched and thoughtful facts that serve as a starting point for readers. A worthy purchase that will serve as a good first stop for school projects.
After a somewhat shaky start where Dr. Murray seems uncertain of her direction, the forensic scientist and educator gains strength and focus, producing a true crime story which should fascinate young readers. Recommended for all middle, high school, and public library collections.
This powerful anthology creates an important discourse celebrating body diversity, leaving readers feeling inspired to seek their own form of self-acceptance. Recommended purchase for all libraries, especially for those seeking engaging essays promoting body positivity for teens.
A depiction of the civil rights movement that exudes honesty and composure from a remarkable voice who tells her story with grace and pride. Readers will be moved and inspired.
Ultimately, this collection is an additional purchase because of the quality of the writing, not because of the significance of the topic and stories that lie within. Without consistency, the stories feel scattered with the only binding element being the teens’ geographic location.
Sheinkin’s thorough research and attention to detail make the era come alive for readers. Fans of Keith O’Brien’s Fly Girls will greatly enjoy this book. Highly recommended for all middle school libraries.
Johnson’s casual descriptions of horrifying tales will delight middle grade readers while he successfully lures them to grander-scheme ideas. A must-have for middle school libraries and those whose readers seek out the creepy and the scary.
A terrific look at middle school culture, and a compelling sequel to a fabulous middle grade graphic memoir. This authentic, important book will mean a great deal to many kids and empower those who are happier following their own inclinations than in going along with the group.
PREMIUM
Everyone Counts
Kids will enjoy poring over the artwork and the charming end pages, which are replete with silly number puns told by the bugs.
PREMIUM
Bruce’s Big Storm
Always a blast, Bruce and his grumbling are sure to please in this stormy adventure.
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