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While we've been building our list of possible Newbery Medal contenders on Heavy Medal, other Mock Newbery groups have been doing the same. Looking at other mock lists might help us identify outstanding books that need a closer look.
Undeniably one of the weirdest and best books I've read in my lifetime of reading.
If I had a dollar for every time I said something to the effect of "graphic novels are real books" or "reading graphic novels is reading" to someone disparaging them... well, I couldn't quit my job, but I would have a LOT of dollars.
You’re never too old to read a picture book!
Taking those books home allowed me to escape the entrapment of those silent days when I could not communicate in English. I will never forget the feeling of joy upon receiving that first library card!
One of Heartstopper’s central themes is that it’s rude, even dangerous, to speculate on someone’s else’s sexuality. But some fans aren’t getting the message.
This version of pillow fighting is a semi-professional fight club where anything goes as long as the pillow is the first point of contact. It’s more roller derby or WWE-style wrestling than a pillow fight in pajamas at a girls’ night sleepover.
The power of books, reading, and a good library help create brave spaces.
Checking in on potential Newbery/Caldecott contenders on Goodreads.
A thoughtfully curated digital resource, rich with fully vetted and accessible materials, aims to uncover how Black and Latinx women and disabled New Yorkers were central to the fight for educational justice.
Penguin Random House has a lobbyist; NYU studies impact of book bans; South Carolina district removes Assassination Classroom; and more.
The Black Caucus of the American Library Association, Inc. (BCALA) welcomes book submissions for the current cycle of its Children & Young Adult Literary Awards.
Caldecott Honor artist Cindy Derby joins us today to discuss her latest title, her process, the empowerment of creativity, and small bugs in blue berets.
Author Tina Athaide asks middle grade readers why middle grade books matter
In today's Wednesday round-up, we look at a genre that seldom receives Newbery glory, easy reader and early chapter books.
In the most recent Escape Room by Teen Librarian Cindy Shutts: Cryptids
I’m never going to be a marine biologist at this point in my life. But writing about sharks. . . educating kids about them, about why we need them, why we need to care about their declining populations . . . that I can do.
On the six-year anniversary of THE VERY LAST CASTLE, I'm giving away some copies.
What happens when teen influencers and streamers famous for their social #content end up dead or the main suspect in a murder case? These timely, topical YA thrillers will keep readers guessing.
Starting with a book about The Nightmare Before Christmas and ending with a book based on the same popular Halloween movie, this list for children of all ages includes titles to joyfully delight the youngest readers and give older readers a thrill.
Are you ready to repair the world or maybe just improve it and make it right? Ruth Spiro drops by to talk about her latest, as well as the concept of tikkun olam in today's society.
A conversation with Hanna Harms about researching her graphic novel Milk Without Honey, a meditation on bees and their importance to our world.
Librarian Jackie Eagleson shares middle grade books that talk about cryptids
When we write, research, and even read about things that truly excite us, the job is suddenly fun. In fact, it’s no longer a job. It is a joy.
Here’s to children’s books that expand our assumptions of what a children’s book can be.
Beatrix Potter meets Brian Floca in this latest title from the extraordinary Torben Kuhlman. I premiere his latest book cover in this one-of-a-kind reveal.
A former school librarian helped create Library Makers, an online platform designed to connect librarians and educators who manage makerspaces or run maker events and programs.
Brianne Colombo believes libraries and bookstores are complementary, each creating "third spaces" for community members.
These guides compassionately provide support, resources, and coaching for young people navigating death and loss.
Beatrix Potter meets Brian Floca in this latest title from the extraordinary Torben Kuhlman. I premiere his latest book cover in this one-of-a-kind reveal.
Check out this week's list of new comics, manga, and graphic novels for readers 12 and under, featuring The Night Mother Volume 1 from Oni Press and Monster Locker from First Second Books.
32 unique titles were chosen in the first round of Heavy Medal nominations.
These authors show readers that grief is not something to “get over,” but something to adapt to, to work through. It’s OK to not know how to feel, what to do, or what to say.
What I really loved about this book is that it shows a really good, healthy, positive relationship steeped in friendship, respect, and support.
Wanna read a book about a woman attempting to "reinhabit her epidermis"? If so, I can't think of a better candidate than this 2004 release (which retains its creepiness today) by the legendary Virginia Hamilton.
Why, hello, funniest graphic novel of 2024 for kids!
Unlike the Newbery and most other ALA awards, the National Book Awards share their longlists and shortlists of finalists. The first ten for Young Peoples Literature were announced in September and now there are five remaining: BUFFALO DREAMER- Duncan (no current suggestions) THE GREAT COOL RANCH DORITO IN THE SKY- Galarza (teen book, no suggestions) […]
I remember going to the local library, getting my first library card, and piling the car with books. I couldn’t believe it—I could take them home? We didn’t have to pay for them? And I could bring them back and then get more? It was the greatest thing ever!
Ah, October. Hoodie weather. Pretty leaves. Apple and pumpkin everything. Impending long, cold, dark winter. Needing to get out my Happy Light. Okay... maybe I should stop listing things fall brings. But it does bring a nice batch of new books!
In the book, Mendel is convinced he's been cursed, and it might be true. But I think it's safe to say we, cursed or not, all have aspects of ourselves we find troublesome.
PREMIUM
We Are Big Time
A focused and rewarding sports story that will leave readers cheering for the inspiring Peace Academy team, and a great recommendation for sports fans or new students worried about finding their place.
Gritty and gripping; give to fans of Courtney Summers and Mindy McGinnis immediately.
PREMIUM
Who We Are in Real Life
Hand to teens who like reading about role-playing games with a side of romance.
PREMIUM
Jill and the Killers
While the nostalgic teen detective storyline and unique subscription box premise holds promise, unsteady execution prevents this graphic novel from reaching its potential.
An introspective coming-of-age novel in verse that is a must-have for young adult collections.
PREMIUM
If Anything Happens to Me
Hand this to fans of Karen M. McManus or students looking for a thrill without the gore. Recommended as an additional purchase.
PREMIUM
Pizza for Birds
A strong follow-up to the first book and an absolutely delightful choice for story time or an elementary school classroom read-aloud.
This is a lovely depiction of a parent sharing their culture with their child in a way that will feel refreshingly new and happily familiar.
This is a buoyant look at inspiration from those who have come before, and it’s a good choice for libraries needing books about artists and inspiration.
While readers will find interesting tidbits, they will come away wishing for fewer words and more recipes.
Buy this one ASAP. This honest and compassionate dealing of a common occurrence in preschool and elementary school reminds kids to be kind to each other when accidents happen.
Until there is a more informative book about this unique celebration, this works in large collections.
PREMIUM
The Zebra’s Great Escape
A perfect recommendation for fans of animal adventure stories of all stripes in the mood for a thrill and a laugh.
This would be a good choice for picture book collections needing books about nature that have high-level vocabulary, even if they are coupled with adorable scenes that make the book read younger.
PREMIUM
Amy Wu and the Lantern Festival
This holiday story is perfect for fans of the series and for libraries looking to build their Lunar New Year collections.
PREMIUM
Christmas Cheer Is Everywhere
Not an essential purchase, but a charming interactive board book to bring Christmas cheer nonetheless.
PREMIUM
A Mouse Family Christmas
This story teaches a positive lesson about working together to complete a task and spread holiday cheer. A lovely choice for holiday shelves.
PREMIUM
Spooky, Scary Skeletons
This well-loved tune, now in book form, is a perfect addition to any Halloween collection.
Purchase to fill a hole in coverage of international celebrations and for readers who enjoy a good scare.
PREMIUM
Buster and the Christmas Parade
Race car and holiday fans will enjoy this befitting story for picture book collections.
A potentially popular addition to elementary library collections. Readers will likely enjoy Betty’s enthusiasm and excitement around the Christmas holiday.
An additional purchase for collections where Hanukkah stories are popular.
PREMIUM
What Jewish Looks Like
In a world where anti-Semitic violence has steadily risen since 2016, this book delivers a reminder that Jewish people are musicians, athletes, activists, religious leaders, and just like everyone else
Guaranteed to inspire young scientists and environmentalists eager to learn how the past can guide us to a sustainable future. Highly recommended for the middle school library and classroom.
A great resource for research projects and nature enthusiasts, recommended for middle grade science collections. Finally, some good news about the future of honey bees!
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