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“Change does not roll in on the wheels of inevitability but comes through continuous struggle.” – Martin Luther King Jr. Rubies, precious descendant stones set for the future with books that debut in 2025. For years, we’ve relied upon numbers from the Children’s Cooperative Book Center (CCBC) at UW-Madison to quantify representation in youth literature. […]
Benthic burrows, rabbit holes, whatever you call them: they are detours well worth the extra mileage. And mostly—they’re not even detours. They’re part of the journey.
This well-written look at one farm girl's eventful few months reminds us that we all have stories and challenges and that unexpected events and connections teach us things, even if they're lessons and truths we'd rather not know.
Young readers of all ages can enjoy the various activities involved with Lunar New Year as they read these titles.
Some kids love narrative nonfiction; others, expository literature. Learn more about these two styles of books and browse a list of recent outstanding examples.
STEVEN: It’s five days until the 2025 Newbery Medal will be announced, which means: Predictions! We do this every year, and the record shows that if you’re looking for accuracy, pay attention to Emily and ignore mine. EMILY: Uhh you’re really loading the pressure on here Steven… why? STEVEN: In seven years of predictions on […]
While depression can be debilitating - I definitely don’t want to minimize its seriousness - it’s important for readers to meet role models who successfully manage their mental health and manage to achieve their familial and career ambitions.
The widow of Guess How Much I Love You? author Sam McBratney was on Antiques Roadshow to get her first edition of the book appraised.
The widow of Guess How Much I Love You? author Sam McBratney was on Antiques Roadshow to get her first edition of the book appraised.
Every year on January 27th, International Holocaust Remembrance Day commemorates the 1945 liberation of the Nazi concentration camp Auschwitz-Birkenau. This year marks the 80th anniversary. Share these graphic novels with young readers leading up to the day and all year long.
These selections combine witty dialogue, incongruous situations, goofy characters, and silly plots to keep young readers entertained.
Our Heavy Medal Reader's Poll starts today! In this one, we invite all Heavy Medal Readers to submit a ballot.
I do hate that I’ll miss the panel discussing the latest edition of The Handbook of Black Librarianship. I have a chapter in it that contextualizes the contributions of Black librarians in the field of youth literature.
Check out this week's new list of comics, manga, and graphic novels for readers 12 and under, featuring Mr. Muffins Defender of the Stars from Oni Press and Very Bad at Math from HarperAlley.
I’ve been thinking for a while about the question of how stories relate to truth.
You can watch the announcements of the 2025 Newbery, Caldecott, and many more from the comfort of your own (possibly homemade) computer.
A Dangerous Idea marks the 100th anniversary of the Scopes Trial, which involved a debate over free speech, education, science, and religion with larger-than-life characters and less-than-pure motives.
An interview with the creators of a graphic novel that explores the linguistic insecurity that so many American-born Hispanics who don’t speak Spanish face today.
Take a look at the five titles the HMAC committee selected to discuss and vote on during the free Zoom Webcast on Friday January 24th.
On November 2, 1983, President Ronald Reagan signed H.R. 3706, officially creating Martin Luther King, Jr. Day as a federal holiday. The federal holiday established that Martin Luther King, Jr. Day would be nationally commemorated and observed as a holiday for federal employees. Almost a decade later, on August 23, 1994 the holiday was transformed […]
As we enter the final week of Heavy Medal discussions there are lots of dates and deadlines to keep an eye on!
Chris Giarrusso's Mini Marvels, short strips parodying Marvel Comics' characters and particular storylines, return in a new collection.
This list of recent-ish middle grade titles looks at gun violence in places that include schools but also take place in other spaces.
January starts strong with a new book from Gayle Forman, two graphic novels, and several audio titles spanning ages and genres.
I'm not talking about what I want to win, necessarily, but what I think WILL win. So buckle up and enjoy this crazy ride . . .
This comical, relatable, and delightful picture book is a must-have for young children and families.
This beautifully written, vibrantly illustrated book would be a solid choice for sharing the culture and life experiences of desert dwellers, whether as windows or mirrors.
PREMIUM
The Summer Love Strategy
Teens searching for stories exploring nuanced friendships will love the easy flow of dialogue, the adventures, the acceptance, and the sweet “friends to girlfriends” romance.
PREMIUM
Marvel’s Iron Man Goes Magnetic
Children will come for Iron Man, but stay for the fun science.
This novel has camp adventures galore and some swoony romantic moments; readers who love the stories of Casey McQuiston, Sophie Gonzales, and Becky Albertalli will add Baldwin to their list of excellent sapphic storytellers.
PREMIUM
With Love, Echo Park
A great addition to realistic fiction, this book has equal parts romance and family drama.
PREMIUM
Build a Girlfriend
A story brimming with heart and comedy, full of quirky moments that sometimes feel forced and overwhelming.
PREMIUM
Werewolf Hamlet
An emotional and engaging tale teetering the line between tragedy and comedy; this is a delightful addition to any middle grade collection.
A storylike text, with tender turns and intricately laced drawings, this is the best of nature writing.
The last book we'll discuss in our Mock Newbery is THE TENTH MISTAKE OF HANK HOOPERMAN by Gennifer Choldenko. It's been a favorite all year long of many Heavy Medal readers and now it's time to explore why.
Deeply affecting and beautifully written, this look at the lengths women will go to to protect and aid one another is a necessary and exceptional read.
And as an author, I’ve had the privilege of seeing the effect teachers and librarians have every time I visit a school.
These books—which share stories of real and fictional people and animals who have endured wildfires—can provide information and comfort to children and teens.
Yesterday, Diamond Comics Distributors, a pillar of the comics retail system, filed for Chapter 11 bankrupcy. Here's a look at the implications for readers and publishers.
Jasmine Warga's A STRANGE THING HAPPENED IN CHERRY HILL "excels at great characters, a keep-you-guessing plot and felt very appropriately interpreted for its intended audience," writes Heavy Medal Award Committee member Lauren Taylor. Join the Mock Newbery discussion and see how this middle grade mystery holds up among other contenders for the 2025 Medal.
Science makes you think, but like art or literature, it can also make you laugh, dream, see and appreciate the world, or even just your own brain, in new, exciting ways.
The world's first (?) exclusive case cover reveal!
A longtime Printz observer (and former committee member) considers some of the underdog titles that could win this year.
How do you write a picture book about a man who made picture books? A deep dive into the creation of the one and only JIM! (a.k.a. James Marshall).
Gale Galligan's latest graphic novel is a fictionalized account of their childhood, featuring an unrepentant goofball of a character starting over in a new school and facing new challenges that can't be run away from.
If there’s one takeaway I’d like all readers to get, it’s that they matter, just as they are, and they deserve to follow their dreams.
Now up for discussion in our Heavy Medal Mock Newbery: QUAGMIRE TIARELLO COULDN'T BE BETTER by Mylisa Larsen. Heavy Medal Award Committee Member Janeé Jackson-Doering notes that "this book tackles themes of growing up, anger, first love, mental illness and anxiety through wry humor."
It's the rare anthology where every story feels strong, and this one certainly achieves that. A great read about love of all kinds around the world and throughout time. Definitely check it out!
Author Shelly Page shares her thoughts about representation and her newest release, BREWED WITH LOVE
From a pizza-eating dragon to a detailed look at the causes of climate change, these Spanish-language works offer young readers engaging stories and magical high jinks.
I am absolutely in love with Mafalda and soon, my friends, you will be too. Translated into English for the first time, I talk with the people who have given her life here in the States.
Author Karen Valby discusses her book, THE SWANS OF HARLEM
Now up for discussion in our Heavy Medal Mock Newbery: the only graphic novel title PLAIN JANE AND THE MERMAIDS by Vera Brosgol.
Check out this week's list of new comics, manga, and graphic novels for readers 12 and under, featuring Chickenpox from Henry Holt and Paws Hazel Has Her Hands Full from Putnam.
Being a late bloomer is not a sign of failure, but a testament to the unique growth that is allowed when we give ourselves the grace to bloom in our own time.
They may offer you lots of cheap thrills / fancy condos in Beverly Hills / but whatever they offer you don't trust the fish!
Can a horror novel for children contend for the Newbery Medal?. Anne Ursu's NOT QUITE A GHOST is a Heavy Medal Mock Newbery finalist
My hope is that my book adds to the canon of mythological stories so that more kids can find themselves reflected in the story, especially kids that might have grown used to feeling “othered.”
Alicia D. Williams won a Newbery Honor in 2020 for her first novel. Her newest book, MID-AIR, is a Heavy Medal Mock Newbery finalist.
Can you guess the children’s book by its scathing one-star review on Goodreads?
PREMIUM
When a Book Begins
A silly, slim collection brought down by too many clunky spots. Not recommended.
From mediocre verses about literary characters and politics to consistently shoddy rhymes, this poetry collection is an optional purchase. For updating children’s collections, stick with Chris Harris’s engaging poetry titles.
A solid chapter book series for Spanish-language children’s collections, especially where diverse religious representation is needed.
A fun, engaging read that is appropriate for all ages but would especially fit in the early reader section of any library.
A solid chapter book series for Spanish-language children’s collections, especially where diverse religious representation is needed.
A solid chapter book series for Spanish-language children’s collections, especially where diverse religious representation is needed.
A solid chapter book series for Spanish-language children’s collections, especially where diverse religious representation is needed.
While this graphic novel will appeal to fans of the first book, it doesn’t quite hold its own.
PREMIUM
Operation: Cover-Up
A lighthearted, amusing story of facing social challenges with lots of food for thought for older elementary and middle school readers.
An incredible tale for sci-fi fans. Purchase also for graphic novel readers and those who love to read about animals.
A perfect read for fans who love fast-paced unconventional stories with good triumphing over evil and a feel-good ending.
Arango’s fans will celebrate the opportunity to read another poignant story told in verse; it packs a punch, and is brimming with love and optimism. Recommend to fans of Erin Entrada Kelly, Barbara O’Connor, and Kwame Alexander.
This compelling novel will leave readers hoping for a future sequel. Hand to readers of the “Rick Riordan Presents” series, and tell them this is even better.
PREMIUM
Rhino’s Run
Teens who enjoyed Lipsyte’s other books may enjoy this, but this is definitely a dropped ball from the normally great writer.
Highly anticipated reading for fans of sports comics, vintage manga, or the successful anime series based on the book.
A fascinating and informative read that celebrates the courage and collaboration behind one of NASA’s most remarkable achievements, this will captivate readers of all interests and abilities.
Breathtaking and beautiful, this resonant Spanish-language book about the author’s experience with English as a child is a must-have for collections everywhere.
A strong title for holiday early chapter book collections. This is a great purchase for elementary school libraries where Subramaniam’s other books, such as My Name Is Long as a River, are popular.
A sweet purchase for libraries to boost Muslim picture book collections.
This installment in the useful “History Comics” series delivers plenty of content to use both in research and understanding of Ellis Island’s iconic status.
Not recommended for libraries. Keepsake pages at the end for recording a baby’s milestones make it better for gifting than library collections.
Transgender actor and activist Nicole Maines played the character of Nia Nal/Dreamer, a trans superhero, in the television show Supergirl, and when the show ended, she wanted Nia to keep on going. So she pitched a story to DC and they said “OK, write it!” DC published her YA graphic novel Bad Dream: A Dreamer […]
Truthfully, although I write about destroying giant, horrible monsters, I’ve never quite been able to vanquish the imposter beast. But I’ve learned how to work around it.
Adam Gidtiz won a Newbery Honor in 2017 for THE INQUISITORS TALE. Does his latest title, MAX IN THE HOUSE OF SPIES have what it takes to win the medal?
Today, we talk with Lauren and Susan on the book, where it came from, its design, and how you develop a book with this kicker of a combo of art and heart.
Cartoonist James Kochalka is next at bat in RH Graphic's line of Dr. Seuss graphic novels, taking on the most challenging Seuss extrapolation yet, that of Green Eggs and Ham.
Today's Mock Newbery discussion features a late publication standout: MALLORY IN FULL COLOR by Elisa Stone Leahy.
Here are some of the BIPOC Pearls who have contributed to youth literature and have gone on to the ancestors.
These books on topics ranging from using AI successfully to navigating book challenges are a good place for librarians to start as they look toward another year of positively influencing young readers.
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