Best Of

Following the lives of Aaron Burr and Alexander Hamilton from childhood to the duel that left Hamilton dead, Brown lays out the similarities and differences between the two men. Through muted yet expressive watercolors, spare yet elegant text, and a clever design that visually compares and contrasts the pair, Brown humanizes two Founding Fathers and illuminates a seemingly senseless act of violence.

There’s plenty that 16-year-old Aaron Soto would like to forget, including life in the poverty-ridden Bronx projects, his father’s suicide, and his own attempt to carve a smile into his wrist, but he only seriously considers a cutting-edge “memory-relief procedure” when his all-consuming friendship with Thomas turns into unrequited love. Characters with straight-up street cred, a heart-searing narrative, and a must-reread resolution provide an unforgettable look at gender identity and coming-of-age issues.

A rambunctious shape-shifter is in search of a supervillain to assist, and the brilliant Lord Ballister Blackheart fits the bill. As they plan to take down Sir Ambrosius Goldenloin and the Institution of Law Enforcement and Heroics, their not-all-that-nefarious intentions go awry and Nimona’s powers get out of control, endangering the entire kingdom. An ode to girl power, friendship, and teamwork, this vibrant full-color work, filled with witty dialogue and touching moments, charms and delights.

The elegant Dr. Mesmer and his mysterious force—said to alter minds and cure illnesses—had Paris entranced in 1776, until Ben Franklin, visiting France to seek support for America’s revolutionaries, stepped in with his no-nonsense attitude and scientific method to unmask un charlatan. Playful narrative and witty artwork provide an elucidating glimpse at history.

With bursts of rhythm and flashes of color, the spirit and genius of bebop artists Charlie Parker and Dizzy Gillespie are captured in a tribute to their classic rendition of “Salt Peanuts.” Author and illustrator offer a virtuoso performance, mirroring that of the performers as text and images skit-scat and swirl between the artists, through a jazz club, and across the pages of this concertina. Dazzling.

Motivated by unnerving events in her Bed-Stuy neighborhood, including a weeping mural and creepy street-shuffling corpses, Sierra Santiago begins to unravel a nightmarish mystery that brings to light secrets about her Puerto Rican family’s heritage and ultimately releases the magic hidden within her soul. A comfortable-in-her-own-skin heroine, magnetic portrayals of a multicultural cast, and scintillating suspense make for a knockout thriller.

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.