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A good, simple biography on a lesser-known creator of a very famous landmark. It could serve as an excellent supplement to a collection of art or landmarks but not a first purchase.
With its captivating illustrations and simple language with word repetition, this book would be an exceptional read-aloud for classrooms or storytime, or for an adult reading one-on-one with a child. A must-have for all libraries serving children.
At times, the chapters feel almost too informal or unsupported by facts, something that is not helped by translation. That said, Perez does a great deal to combat toxic masculinity and celebrate intimacy, and this consent-centered book certainly fills a need. Recommended for collections serving older teens.
Troublemaker for Justice uncovers the life of civil rights leader Bayard Rustin, whose legacy has long been ignored because he was openly gay.
Readers searching for a simple collection of recipes will enjoy this slim volume, but those craving more content will go wanting. The book feels like a missed opportunity to introduce young readers and their families to the impact of eating seasonally and buying local. An additional purchase for public libraries
This handsomely packaged and sturdily bound volume provides an intriguing look at how a team of humans nurtured and saved a gorilla family
This title shines because it does not obscure the inequalities that make activism necessary. The vivid details of each activist’s story, combined with vibrant illustrations, demonstrate that every civil rights hero and popular firebrand started out as a child, just like the rest of us. For fans of other installment in the series, and for those who enjoy Ken Jennings’s “Junior Genius Guides” and the “Who Is/Who Was” biography series
PREMIUM
The Rocking Book of Rocks
A highly popular topic coupled with an attractive and thoughtful design makes this a strong choice for most libraries
Hours of research and conversations with survivors aided the author as she pieced together the tragic story a 1940 attack on a ship carrying children from war-torn England to Canada.
PREMIUM
50 Things to See in the Sky
More gift book than guidebook, this title should be purchased where astronomy and stargazing shelves are always empty.
PREMIUM
Nature All Around: Bugs
Nature-loving kids will enjoy reading this on their own or with parents. Educators will find this book particularly fascinating. An excellent addition to enhance nature and bug collections in school libraries, classroom libraries, and public libraries.
Welcome this title into libraries, where it is sure to be popular with nonfiction fans in classrooms and homes alike.
An informative romp in an unexpected playground!
Great for parents answering questions at home and for elementary science classroom libraries.
This book effectively introduces Lovelace to a young audience, but additional resources will be needed to explain the historical context of her life and how her ideas contributed to the modern work of programming and coding.
This book somberly and beautifully depicts what life was like for the Franks and others who fell inside the Nazi sphere of influence during World War II. A truly valuable resource.
Although this book is illustrated to catch the eye of younger readers, it contains a lot of information. A surprisingly jam-packed and fun work of nonfiction.
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
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
Harry Houdini
While telling interesting stories, these books could be better supported with higher quality, varied visuals. The reading experience would be enhanced with photographic depictions of the people being described, instead of exclusively using exaggerated caricature
Do not escape purchasing at least one copy for public and school libraries to round out a collective biography section. This can be used for a read-aloud or a history revealed display
An excellent biography that belongs in every young adult library. Readers will find Rustin’s story captivating; his story could encourage young people to fight for change
The maps, colorful illustrations, and accessible text present a comprehensive history of Manhattan as an island and a good introduction to the study of urban growth for students of all ages. Very valuable to students in the New York City metropolitan area, but also highly informative for all readers
A must. Fans of Smile and Sisters will adore this new story starring Raina and her family, but newcomers to Telgemeier’s work will also love Guts
With the popularity of Daniel Tiger and the recent Morgan Neville documentary (Won’t You Be My Neighbor?) and the upcoming biopic starring Tom Hanks, it is an ideal time to introduce the next generation to the pure magic of Mister Rogers and his legacy. His enduring message to children of all ages—that you are enough, just as you are
This is a young readers’ version of Johnson’s Ink & Paint, an oversize, wonderful tribute to the women of Disney animation. Like the Disney universe itself, this pared-down version of the original is magical. A finely written and illustrated inspiration
A beautifully crafted story that touches on a lesser-known historical topic. Together, the words and pictures convey musicality without a single note of harmoniku, Flory’s instrument of choice, having to be played. This work is a must-purchase for library collections
Bilingual text and eye-catching illustrations join a treasure of additional resources to create this significant text. Highly recommended for nonfiction collections for young readers, and perfect for use alongside titles such as Separate Is Never Equal by Duncan Tonatiuh
Katherine Johnson, the famed NASA mathematician, battled adversity to become an undeniably important part of history. We spoke to Johnson about her autobiography, Reaching for the Moon, and her decision to finally tell her story.
PREMIUM
Cats: Nature and Nurture
This guide to understanding cats and cat behavior provides rare insights aplenty, both to middle grade readers with a specific pet in mind and to young naturalists with a general interest in animals wild, domestic, and (in this case) in between.
PREMIUM
Ants Don’t Wear Pants
An excellent choice for younger readers who like animal facts peppered with humor.
PREMIUM
Glacier on the Move
An adorable addition to any library’s picture book or science/STEM collection.
PREMIUM
A Walk Through Nature
This beautiful title can be read multiple ways. The verses make a sweet narrative on their own, and the facts tucked beneath the folded pages offer tidbits of information to start conversations and inquiry. Purchase for poetry and nonfiction picture book collections.
PREMIUM
Next Time You See a Bee
Honeybees get far better press, so this title serves as a needed corrective
A solid account of breaking through gender barriers. Readers can easily imagine the thrill and the challenge of mastering the increasingly complex technology of larger and larger commercial jetliners.
An applicable resource for intro to coding clubs at schools or libraries. An engaging introduction to basic and intermediate fundamentals of computer science and coding through various screen-free activities.
Extreme sports enthusiasts will surely enjoy and certainly learn from Weihenmayer’s mistakes and triumphs. But for everyday spectators? Not so much. A rare case where the movie might be more engaging than the book.
A useful addition to a library serving middle grade students who enjoy biographies, science, and scientific activities.
Reviews of the books featured at this year's SLJTeen Live! virtual conference on August 8.
This delightful book combines poetry and whimsical artwork to tell Ochoa’s story, the world’s first Latina in space, and the hard work and perseverance that got her all the way to the stars. A must purchase for all elementary science and biography collections.
A celebration of the amazing wildebeests and African wildlife. Recommended for homework support.
Many titles have been published this year to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing. This curated list provides digital resources and books recommended for elementary and middle grade readers.
With the words, “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind," Neil Armstrong, along with Buzz Aldrin, secured their place in history as the first people to walk on the surface of the moon. These recent nonfiction titles unpack the details of our lunar legacy.
This book is well suited for readers who want to dip their toes into technology but don’t know where to start.
PREMIUM
The Book of Space Rockets
An absolutely adorable addition to anyone’s collection. Great information and high interest perfect for the youngest reader.
PREMIUM
Survival
With vibrant colors and facts about each animal species, this book will encourage awareness about conservation efforts. An additional purchase for elementary libraries where animals are popular.
The beauty—and fragility—of our oceans and the variety of life that they support are highlighted in these recently published, abundantly illustrated titles.
The music and lives of four jazz greats in words and pictures.
While there are a number of titles on this topic, this one offers a unique and valuable perspective and will have a place on most library shelves. Report writers will find this engaging and accessible.–
PREMIUM
Skulls!
The carefree tone and tidbits of humor, such as the girl’s love of grilled cheese sandwiches, make this an amusing introduction for young students of the human body
A celebration of Cleary, literacy, and the pursuit of ambitious dreams, this charming picture book will enhance any biography collection
PREMIUM
You Are Awesome
While this enthusiastic book offers entertaining anecdotes and helpful and concrete suggestions, librarians and educators may have to convince readers to recognize its potential. Buy if motivational books with up-to-date pop culture references and examples for middle school students are needed
Hoffman offers an accessible biography about a little-known athlete and Holocaust hero; a much-needed addition to historical collections
The balance of the fantastical story with scientific and historical facts makes this a good title to recommend to fiction and nonfiction readers alike. A solid addition for medium to large collections
PREMIUM
Our World Is Relative
For children just learning about measurements, this stunning title can help illuminate a complex topic
Recommended for libraries that carry other books in the series and those looking to add to their parent-teacher or tough topics sections
PREMIUM
Animal Skins
The photography is outstanding; however, the book’s overall layout is text-heavy and lackluster. This is an extra purchase or one to fit a science curriculum
PREMIUM
Girlish
Some readers may argue that there are other valid ways to look at femininity, and this title doesn’t acknowledge differing viewpoints, nor does it deny them. A good addition for libraries needing a book that speaks to femininity and strength
PREMIUM
Brave the Page
This book is a fantastic reminder that writing is fun. A must-have for anyone participating in National Novel Writing Month
A unique look at how to motivate middle grade students to become aware of what they can do to help their community and the world around them. Recommended for libraries with strong middle grade patronage and outreach
Henigson’s strength, passion, and conviction will inspire readers. A unique and informative addition to any high school or YA biography collection
The book’s core message--“Where there’s room for some, we make room for all. Friends can be allies no matter how small!”--offers a memorable refrain caregivers and educators will be eager to integrate into daily mantras. Highly recommended
A strong first purchase for any library and a must-have for libraries seeking additions for space exploration collections
PREMIUM
Even More Lesser Spotted Animals
This rare find takes readers to enjoyable heights. A delightful and highly engaging work.
This inclusive and respectful guide should be part of all curricula about family, gender, and sexuality. Short, accessible, and important
A standout title in the crowded field of Apollo 11 celebrations. Highly recommended
Dunbar-Ortiz’s narrative history is clear, and the adapters give readers ample evidence and perspective to help them to engage with the text. A highly informative book for libraries serving high school students
Readers will get a very human glimpse into the lives of two immigrants while also learning more about the larger picture of immigration in the United States. A must for all young adult nonfiction shelves
While the chapters are a little lengthy for the intended audience, Johnson’s story is easy to follow and hard to put down. Highly recommended for purchase in any school library
A book to be savored rather than devoured, this memoir will resonate with teens, especially fans of Alison Bechdel’s Fun Home and Mason Deaver’s I Wish You All the Best. It’s also a great resource for those who identify as nonbinary or asexual as well as for those who know someone who identifies that way and wish to better understand
PREMIUM
Marie Curie: A Life of Discovery
With a complex story structure and sophisticated science content, this addition to the canon about Curie is ideal for upper middle and high schoolers
Informative, appealing, and much more fun than your typical travel guide
PREMIUM
No Ivy League
This authentic and relevant account delves into the messy work of recognizing one’s own white privilege
PREMIUM
Hawking
Packed with scientific theory, this graphic biography of a scientific luminary will appeal to budding physics and cosmology enthusiasts
This thorough if somewhat disjointed examination of the events before, during, and in the aftermath of the Stonewall Riots gives young readers an overview of the LGBTQ+ activism of the 1950s and 1960s.
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