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A fantastic book makes a complex subject relatable and engaging for tweens of all reading levels.
This excellent historical novel, based on true events, will give readers a unique perspective on WWII. Recommended for wide purchase
An important addition to all library shelves to demonstrate how one person’s actions can change a nation and change the world.
Filled with beautiful illustrations and bird facts, this moving book addresses the complexities of sudden death for middle grade readers who will be drawn to the heartfelt characters and adventure plot.
This book is a vital addition to any nonfiction collection, for anyone seeking inspiration to dream bigger than they thought possible.
An excellent realistic novel in verse for all libraries serving middle grade students.
This powerful book will be enjoyed by all young readers, especially those with a fondness for historical fiction. It will remind them that no matter what, no one is “not nothing.”
Gritty and gripping; give to fans of Courtney Summers and Mindy McGinnis immediately.
An introspective coming-of-age novel in verse that is a must-have for young adult collections.
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.
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.
For the Sra. Mimís who help the world go around, this picture book belongs on every picture book shelf.
Full of humor and heart, this is a must-buy for any school or public library. Hand to readers who love a good laugh but will also benefit from a quick lesson.
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.
For the Sra. Mimís who help the world go around, this picture book belongs on every picture book shelf.
A highly recommended addition to collections. This compelling novel leaves it up to Bella alone to admit she needs help and is an education—and a warning
In this exciting addition to YA shelves, Ali’s characters leap off the page. Highly recommended for all collections.
A terrific book that uses horror to discuss the importance of family, remembrance, and the matrix of support needed to thrive in this world and beyond.
A first purchase for middle school libraries, especially where fresh approaches to sports fiction are in high demand.
An anthology that beams with heart and hope, especially for young Black girls. Recommended for all middle grade collections.
This hilarious look into life as a kid in the summer of 1975 is a must-have for any and all middle grade libraries.
From break of dawn to day’s end, the journey of the sun as captured in lyrical text and stunning illustrations is a joy to behold. Highly recommended for all collections to encourage curiosity about life on Earth and the connections all living beings share.
An engaging and culturally thoughtful picture book for libraries, especially for a family story time focusing on mirror-and-window encounters with heritage families.
A highly artistic rendition of a loved fantasy for the classroom and the public library shelves.
Rarely does a book build suspense as perfectly as this one. Readers will fall under the spell of the title and influence their friends to pick it up as well. Remember: Don’t just read, share.
A superb addition to horror collections that will also satisfy fans of mythology, too.
This must-purchase is an expansive narrative that skillfully examines the ways a family’s past affects descendants in the present.
Readers will flock to this graphic novel, especially fans of Webtoons, romantasy, secret identities, and ladies who are stronger than they look.
A very successful biography that portrays a purpose-driven life fueled from Obama’s early years to the White House; the text captures the energy and passion of a man who broke barriers and changed history.
A wonderful addition to library collections or for use in music classrooms to introduce this early childhood icon.
Using the story of Jim and Huck as a springboard, this well-researched, well-written book belongs in all library collections.
A present-day Judy Blume’s Forever, this novel has been set up by its author to become a modern classic.
An excellent and accessible read for fans of Sallie J. Pla’s The Fire, the Water, and Maudie McGinn and Dan Gemeinhart ‘s The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise. Recommended for all middle grade collections.
A first-rate historical verse novel with opportunities for classroom extension activities.
Highly recommended for Spanish-language collections, this title poignantly depicts the loving relationship between father and daughter as well as the beauty that can be found in nature.
An economic lesson that reads like a fairy-tale and turns out to be true, this book is a charming and accessible story that teaches values of saving, expanding, working with others, and dreaming big. Outstanding.
A masterpiece of speculative, postapocalyptic fiction that demands to be devoured in a night or two, this is a white-knuckle ride into the future that is both moving and frightening. If Octavia E. Butler’s Parable of the Sower were written for teens, it might look like Tew’s debut.
With discussions on role-playing’s ability to help people with socialization, self-expression, and expression of gender identity, Side Quest is a great place to begin for history fans, gaming fans, and graphic novel readers, alike.
A powerful memoir for teens who enjoy physical and emotional journeys, and for anyone who ever felt they didn’t fit in.
A visually stunning and narratively powerful book that gives a voice to the often-silenced women of Greek mythology. It’s a must-read for anyone interested in mythology or feminism, or simply in search of a beautifully crafted book.
A well-researched and excellent addition to STEM classes and library collections.
Developing social-emotional skills is crucial for this age range, and this title will help children understand some of the tools they need to make friends.
As a celebration of Black joy and Black hair, this book is a must-have, and a first purchase for all libraries.
This insightful and gentle introduction to Pakistani culture, authored by individuals with firsthand experience in the country, is a valuable addition to any collection.
This beautifully illustrated book deserves a place on every shelf.
Unputdownable, unbelievably powerful, deranged, and magnificently defiant. Hold on to your humanity for dear life, readers.
A first purchase for middle school and high school collections where illustrated poetry is in demand, and a strong recommendation for thoughtful poetry lovers.
A genuine account of an enslaved person daringly achieving a better life. Highly recommended for elementary school libraries.
This enlightening account of a president and his study of the natural world is a needed addition to the elementary library.
This elevated spin on “letters to Santa” will be a Christmas staple with its unique inclusion of removable letters. An essential purchase for personal collections and public or school libraries.
This action-packed series is a must-buy for early chapter book collections.
This fills in gaps and turns history on its head. An absolute must for nonfiction collections.
Detailed with emotional sympathy inherent in the retelling from a family’s lineage, this narrative nonfiction title pays homage and remembrance to those harmed and intended to be forgotten.
A notable book with beautiful language and memorable illustrations that uplift the power of devotion; it will also appeal to budding ornithologists.
This factual and inspiring account will resonate with many readers, and is an especially good choice for women’s history month.
This book gives young readers a sense of the creativity and variety of art created by the Black artists as they revisit their thoughts about the Black experience. A useful source for investigating artists, art, and Black history.–Myra Zarnowski
This thoughtful introduction to a difficult subject is a first purchase for all collections
Reading this book prior to engaging in experiments is like providing a blueprint for the scientific method; this is a must for elementary collections.
Hand to fans of Becky Albertalli’s novels and Casey McQuiston’s I Kissed Shara Wheeler, and any teens who can’t get enough of rom-coms with deep connections and a bit of angst.
A necessary addition for libraries serving tweens and teens, this is especially useful for reports and history curriculum.
This is not only a unique story with a strong message, but the spotlight on lesser-appreciated plants makes this book a must-buy.
A richly compassionate look at people’s lives, this book covers childhood in a way that readers will appreciate and love. It’s a gripping read for elementary grades and beyond.
Stellar for middle grade science classrooms, particularly ones studying ocean life or habitats.
This debut shines brightly on shelves full of oncoming spooky season releases. Keep one eye on future novels by the author, and be sure to purchase this one.
This book could jump-start art projects, writing experiences, and more. The art is perfect
An engaging and informative nonfiction text with all the facts about vaccinations. A must-have for middle school libraries.
A truly uplifting read for anyone, but especially for those who have ever felt alone and unheard by being new, different, or othered. Highly recommended for any library serving youth.
An approachable, comprehensive guide to empower kids to find their passion and make a change. A must-purchase for all libraries.
This book is especially recommended because it not only explains the growth of a successful writer, but it also can stimulate discussions of the ways in which reading and writing enrich our lives.
A stunning book and essential purchase, stuffed with ideas, poetic musings, and more than one reason to connect with rocks wherever they are found.
An outstanding choice for biography and science classes, women’s history studies, and Black history studies.
Answering deep questions, this book will encourage meaningful, grounded discussions and will be an important part of the elementary library collection.
A fantastic resource for introducing children to robotics. This book educates and inspires, making it a valuable addition to any children’s library.
Debut author Mepani pulls from her own childhood experiences to capture a single Saturday gathering full of family, friends, and joyful chaos. An important book for every growing library collection.
This charming book will have children holding love in their hands; a must-have for any social-emotional collection.
Amid many holiday book options that retell the same stories, Stickler stands out as a fresh expression of Christmas spirit.
This sweeping embrace of winter and fall celebrations is a visually stunning addition to holiday book collections.
A heartwarming story celebrating Hanukkah that is both cheerful and informational.
This book is a must-read for anyone interested in Indigenous literature and culture, and for those looking to expand their perspectives of the holiday season. It is an easy read-aloud and would be a wonderful addition to any library.
A feel-good holiday story that will warm hearts for Christmases to come. Holiday collections will welcome this gift.
This delightful picture book allows Indigenous children to connect with and feel pride in the abundance of powwow participation, and gives all readers a great counting book full of cultural imagery.
A fun and imaginative story to read aloud with young children.
A plea for peace that younger readers will clearly hear, pointing no accusatory fingers, but shining with steady resolve to endure.
The sensitive treatment and outstanding illustrations warrant a recommended purchase; this is a loving story with beautiful artwork for a broad audience on the importance of grandparents and memory.
A priority purchase for fans of the first book and any collection with teens in search of their post–“Percy Jackson” obsession.
An insightful and empowering graphic novel about the complexities of 1980s South Korea, featuring young people’s pursuit of justice and freedom of thought despite the risks.
Equally heartbreaking and uplifting, this recommended book reminds readers that a forgotten past is irreplaceable, and the present is a gift.
A heartfelt must-read story for any kid who has felt “othered” in their life, with the hope that they find support and community.
Magical and fresh, this is easily one of the best graphic novels of the year.
A beautifully told novel in verse about family and community. Recommended for all middle grade collections.
With laugh-out-loud humor, rich cultural details, and eye-catching illustration, this series opener will have readers clamoring for the next installment. An essential first purchase.
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