A first purchase for all collections. Both teens and adults will be drawn to this title.
Farah is a well-rounded character with ambitions and struggles; readers will identify with her challenges and root for her to succeed. A first purchase for upper elementary readers.
A remarkable tribute to the generosity, compassion, and courage of ordinary people who endanger themselves to do right, as well as those who capture glimpses of light in the darkness.
Brian takes on a potentially touchy subject with humor and clarity. This is a book that can be read in an hour, but its lessons should, and will, stay with readers for a lifetime.
This is an unusual and profound addition to children’s book collections emphasizing the concepts of math and design.
Readers will delight in this old-fashioned mystery, made fresh with intriguing places and people.
Sci-fi and adventure are flashy vehicles for a tale about power and compassion
A well-thought-out biography that highlights a different side of Carver and will be a first purchase for school and public library collections.
A necessary title for public and school libraries. Argueta presents a candid look at the reality many children and families face and the difficult choices they have to make when trying to change their lives.
Overall, the combination of modern and historical insight is extremely effective. A valuable resource for anyone seeking to learn more about Indigenous history and a vital purchase for all collections.
Expect this book to garner Heiligman another nonfiction award. Pair this with Susan Wood’s historical fiction novel Lifeboat 12.
This collection is inspirational, uplifting, and encouraging for readers of all genders. Elliott may not think of herself as a poet, but her creativity and deft wielding of rich language prove otherwise.
Goldstone has provided new and compelling insight into the societal impact of the U.S. Supreme Court’s decisions related to voting rights. A must-buy for all high school collections.
Readers of a variety of ages will appreciate this educational, beautifully designed homage to the many creatures who are affected by climate change around the world.
Highly recommended for public and school libraries. The creative illustrations will appeal to parents who struggle with keeping children in bed at night. This is also an excellent choice for a bedtime storytime or other programs.
This visually stunning story is as beautiful to see as it is to read; young readers will especially appreciate its message of friendship and encouragement as they begin to investigate their own big feelings.
The simple text in this gentle chronicle of years blazes with the power of family, determination, and perseverance.
An enchanting examination of the pleasure reaped from cultivating imagination, friendship, and memory.
A handsome and helpful primer on self-reflection and a mirror to urban black and brown children, this joyous title could be well paired with Samantha Berger’s What if….
A much-needed novel about steroid addiction from the point of view of a high school boy who’s the victim of bullying.
With topical references to state and national issues—including hijab bans, bathroom bills, and the subtle politics of meme culture
A fantastic novel in the #MeToo era, empowering women to share their stories by reaching out, speaking up, and demanding a change.
Children figuring out where they fit in will appreciate this stunning work that does double duty as an absorbing adventure and a gentle musing on gender identity, family, and acceptance.
Henry cites Calvin and Hobbes as an influence, and the similarities are clear. Though lovable, self-assured Wallace is a worthy successor to Calvin, he’s a strong hero in his own right, and Wallace the Brave is bound to be a future classic.
A must-read for fans of portal fantasies, mysteries, and readers who prefer their magic with bloody sharp edges.
Using photographs, images of objects, and medals, the National Museum of African American History and Culture has created a rich compilation of visual sources to present an extremely important segment of American history that needs to be preserved. An essential purchase.
A humorous introduction for students mastering the elements of literary genre. This suggested first purchase highlights an ingenious plot running with each page turn through a variety of colorful settings, and enough witty dialogue for young readers to stage a class reading.
This handsome, thoughtful book will be valuable in school and public libraries for not only a poetic look at similarities and differences, but also to spark curiosity about the animals and nature.
This is an excellent resource for anyone who teaches research skills or asks students to complete a research project. Essential for all secondary teachers and librarians.
Harrington and Taylor have rescued a worthy scientist from obscurity. Recommended for all libraries serving this grade range.
This empathetic and informative study of August Wilson’s early years explores the complexities of the black experience in America. A book that will resonate not only with bookworms and fans of the playwright but with black children wishing to see themselves reflected in the world around them.
This striking book will resonate with readers in search of biographies of pioneering black men in history.
This is an excellent read-aloud for elementary school children, especially those who are looking for a gentle introduction to the Spanish language and some accompanying cultural connections. Fans of Roseanne Greenfield Thong’s Green Is a Chili Pepper will appreciate the design similarities.
With many illustrations, sidebars, quizzes, and projects this is an outstanding introduction into the world of trees. Highly recommended for students of science, environment, and ecology.
The book’s appealing cover will engage children, and the poems might prompt them to create their own silly rhymes.
This masterly account of an egregious episode in American history is (and will remain) vital reading. An essential acquisition.
Give this to anyone who exists in a gendered society. (Which means, as the book points out, everyone.) Highly recommended for school and public libraries.
The protagonists’ fears and worries are completely relatable and readers will joyfully join in the refrain of, “I’m brave! I’m strong! I’m five!” A first purchase for libraries serving young children.
This beautiful book belongs in all picture book collections, specially given the dearth of books about the inhabitants of the Amazon region.
Only Jeffers knows if this 2019 fable is about Trumpian terrors, the horror of late-stage capitalism, or simply a cautionary tale against greed that is as old as storytelling itself. Regardless of its intentions, this minimalistic masterpiece is a must-read for all ages.
Babies love babies. Babies love animals. Babies love learning about the world. This irresistible book has it all.
Clever, challenging content paired with accomplished, unusual art.
A great addition to any library especially with its depiction of a modern, two-dad family.
A suggested first purchase, this title is a strong addition to any picture book collection and an appealing choice for fledgling readers.
A simple picture book with a surprising ending that will charm readers. Perfect for toddler or preschool storytimes.
Just the right amount of tension, delicious vocabulary such as “sly,” “plump,” “famished,” and “snug,” and alliterative phrases make this a first purchase for group and one-on-one sharing. Count on requests for many readings.
A middle school feminist manifesto that fans of girl-led ensembles like Ann M. Martin’s “The Babysitter’s Club” and Ann Brashares’s “The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants” will love, and that will inspire future Red Clubs in the process.
Part of the “Rick Riordan Presents” series, this debut novel offers a richly realized world, a conversational, breezy style, and a satisfying conclusion that leaves room for sequels.
A particularly well-crafted, solid fantasy adventure suitable for most collections.
A twisty, fantastical adventure. This title will be an excellent addition to any middle grade reading collection, especially where fantasy and science fiction are in demand.
A first purchase for collections seeking warm realistic fiction that centers divorce, friendship, and self-reflection.
A fun and thought-provoking look at animals that are just like us. An excellent choice for any nonfiction collection.
A poignant and unvarnished depiction of immigration
This is a must-buy for any parent, elementary, or juvenile collection, and teachers will find this a great model text for writing.
A marvelous vehicle for nature lovers, armchair travelers, and aspiring boaters and explorers.
A powerful first purchase for any library serving teens.
Winters deserves a place in the YA literary canon.
Imaginative, bold, and full of queer representation, this is a must-purchase for YA collections.
Fans of the first two books will be (and have been) clamoring for this finale. Get it to them as soon as possible. Highly recommended.
Readers who have been waiting for more Genie will not be disappointed. A worthy sequel.
Though it is designed for preschool and early elementary aged children, this book will be enjoyed by readers of all ages thanks to its thoughtful design and memorable presentation.
A top-notch thrill-ride of creepy, crunchy horror. This collection belongs on every young horror shelf.
With this fourth installment in a series of fanciful nonfiction books about animals in the wild, Eaton is shaping up to be a go-to source for amazing facts about nature.
A terrific find for science units on animal behavior and useful for student browsing.
This painful but rewarding read about family dysfunction belongs in all libraries’ graphic novel collections.
This fascinating work will terrify and educate readers about the dangers of autocracy and racism. Highly recommended for all young adult collections.
Readers will be drawn into Edie’s emotions as she copes with overprotective parents and honesty in relationships. Keep an eye out for Day, as her writing is powerful. Highly recommended.
Shapiro invites readers to partake in a cultural exchange between two very different worlds and see how friendship can bloom between unexpected pairs.
Stretching the possibilities of the picture book format
This unique book, at times both beautiful and sadly horrifying, deserves to be studied and savored.
While the broad plot shines a light on the growing national issue of wildfires and our role in their prevention, Philbrick crafts a story that leaves readers open to discussion on many topics. A must-have for all upper elementary/middle grade libraries.
James’s debut will speak to the heart of bibliophiles and is highly recommended for readers young and old. An important reminder of the centrality of stories in shaping our lives.
Ogle’s story will inspire empathy for the experience of children living in poverty. Recommend this book to mature readers who are ready to grapple with the realities of the impacts of socioeconomic status.
A complex moment of history is deftly explored. Give to readers who enjoyed Refugee, Gratz’s other World War II novels, or Eric Walters’s Fly Boy.
Research shows that the earlier children learn about consent and body autonomy, the better. All libraries serving middle school and upper elementary school students will want this warm, candid guide.
A story that weaves mindfulness, appreciation of family time, and the lesson that parents are human, into a gorgeously produced package. Perfection.
A charming celebration of bedtime rituals and parent-child affection, this book also underscores the importance of fostering imagination and wonderment while nurturing young minds.
Highly recommended for readers passionate about activism or political history, or for those who are simply looking for an excellent comic book.
Well organized, clearly written, and excitingly illustrated, this highly enlightening work is an excellent addition for any nature collection as well as for the study of the environment and endangered species.
A must-have for any library that is in need of books with positive representation for and about black children, as there is no other alphabet book quite like this one.
This title is a work of art recommended for readers curious about the microscopic world that exists everywhere, from the ocean floor to our beds. Recommended for all libraries.
A culturally and historically important work focusing on an inspirational Mexican American soldier who fought for America during the Great War, as well as for equal rights for his fellow Mexican Americans. An essential purchase for all children’s nonfiction collections.
Pairing the works of some of today’s most important voices in children’s poetry with illustrations by artists of equal talent makes this is a must-have for all elementary and middle grade collections.
Barnes and Kirkland’s dynamic tale is best described as Jordan Peele’s Get Out for the graphic novel set. Action packed, thoughtful, and visually delicious, this is a story that’s not to be missed.
A first-rate example of a longer picture book for elementary-age readers and listeners.
A sweet, funny, and silly story with a serious message at its core: stop trying so hard to be cool, and just have fun being yourself.
A treat to share aloud, this book makes a unique choice for seasonal sharing, opens discussion about rebirth rituals and holidays that incorporate light, and celebrates hope even in darkest times.
Another poignant piece to add to the current national discussion about the border. A must for any collection.
From Ti Gran ceremoniously adorning Belle with a matching apron to the final view of city windows full of revelers, this book is a start-to-finish celebration of family, history, and culture. A delectable first purchase for libraries.
A suggested first purchase for all libraries, this book urges readers to imagine the improbable, “Sit in the sun and shine” and “X out all the bad stuff,” for anyone may, as the title suggests,“Roar like a dandelion.”
This warm and charming book shows and affirms Native lives. The informational text and expressive drawings give it broad appeal, making it a first purchase for all libraries.
Striking a dream-nurturing balance between the commonplace and the magical, this lovely picture book is perfect for sharing one-on-one at bedtime or anytime.
This encompassing guide will be a boon for students eager to become better educated about gun violence and gun control, especially with regard to suggestions on meaningful ways to get involved. A timely, thoughtful, far-reaching, and inclusive look at gun control and gun violence issues.
Maclear and Morstad pack a lot of information into a few pages. This exemplary biography of a pioneer in multicultural children’s books deserves a place in most collections.
A must-have book to keep your young adult cookbook section up-to-date and to support the current trend of creative young bakers. A contemporary and educational cookbook that’s once again kid-tested and kid-approved.
Deming pulls no punches in this flawless debut. A recommended first purchase.
Religion is rarely handled with such wisdom and depth in YA, or discussed so lovingly. A rich and memorable exploration of faith and family that is a first purchase for all collections.
Pair with Bethany Barton’s Give Bees a Chance to experience persuasive calls to bravery and bee lovefests.
The perfect book to hand to reluctant middle grade readers, who will relate to the hectic and uncertain lives of these characters.
An engrossing read that will raise questions about how to determine the truth of past events.
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