Best Of

SLJ reviews editors share the 2021 Best Books covers that most left an imprint on our eyes (and hearts).

SLJ reviews editors don’t only read kids’ books. Here are some titles that won our hearts this year, whether as a nice (or super scary) break from children’s books or a bedtime read for our little ones.

In the infinite amount of words we’ve read this year, sometimes there are lines that stick out and linger, burrowing themselves in our memories. Here are some of these unforgettable quotations from this year’s Best Books.

While the popularity of manga ticked up sharply in 2020, it really took off in 2021. Publishers are getting the hint and bringing out new titles in familiar genres, as well as some that are new to American readers. Here’s a look at 10 of our favorite manga of 2021.

Download the full list of SLJ’s 2021 Best Books as a nifty PDF that you can share with patrons, educators, and other readers.

The top 10 audiobooks represent the best of November 2020 to October 2021 releases, with selections for all age groups and interests. Realistic fiction, speculative fiction, poetry, and more are represented, and exceptional narration enhances the fascinating stories.

Our 2021 best picture books list boasts 24 excellent works for children, including two bilingual books and several glowing tributes to mothers. 

Seven superb titles made SLJ's list of must-have chapter books, including a retelling of Don Quixote and charming take on the “new sibling” genre.

The 2021 list of best middle grade books counts with 26 novels, including unforgettable works by Joseph Bruchac, Jasmine Warga, and Kate DiCamillo.