Best Of

The lovable playthings from Jenkins and Zelinsky’s chapter book series (Random) head outdoors in this picture book to investigate the first snowfall of the year. Captivating characterizations, tenderly tuned text, and endearing illustrations create an affectionate ode to the marvels of nature and the cozy contentment of friendship.

Cara’s family has learned to expect that October will bring injuries—from broken bones to fatalities. It’s a history that they haven’t questioned until the 17-year-old, her sister, and her stepbrother are confronted with family secrets. Brimming with characters and spirits both naive and nefarious and a setting steeped in mystery and myth, this haunting debut will linger long in readers’ imaginations.

Bullied by classmates about his light coloring, an 11-year-old Lakota boy embarks on a road trip with his storyteller grandfather to learn about his heritage—and himself—by visiting landmarks linked to the great 19th-century Lakota leader. A vividly told, emotionally multifaceted, and eye-opening journey into American history.

Jack walks the line between good and bad, longing to extinguish his obedient, gentle, and—in his eyes—weak side. When he meets smooth Gary Pagoda, a delinquent with a penchant for pyromania, he takes a sharp turn toward what he sees as strength and masculinity. In this autobiographical novel, Gantos expertly conveys the dark, even savage elements of the coming-of-age process with an immediacy that will resonate with a variety of readers.

Pablo’s first day at his new school coincides with a field trip to the Empire State Building, and a series of mishaps ensue when he and his partner get separated from the rest of the class. Fun and engaging cartoon art, cutaways with above- and below-ground views, photographs, informative asides about the NYC subway system, and a map all contribute to the story of a boy learning to navigate his surroundings and find his way home.

When city girl Sophie moves to her late great-uncle’s farm, the one bright spot is a chance to raise chickens. The narrative is composed of letters to her Great-Uncle Jim and Abuelita in heaven, along with correspondence with the Redwood Farm Supply company, the source of the rather unusual fowl. In addition to the challenges of caring for super-powered chickens, Sophie handles microaggressions in a homogenous small town. A charming chapter book with humor and magic reminiscent of the works of Roald Dahl.

Sickly 12-year-old Triss wakes up after an accident with a fuzzy memory and an insatiable hunger. Once she encounters talking dolls, fairies, and letters from her dead brother, who was a casualty of World War I, she soon realizes that there are darker forces at work trying to destroy her family. A creepy tour de force, Hardinge’s novel is a rich and atmospheric exploration of identity, family, grief, and loss.

Mark Flowers and his team of reviewers selected 22 of the top adult titles published in 2015 to share with teen readers.