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Paw & Order Vol. 1

Jason Platt

Crime-solving has never been this cheesy!

The annual Grilled Cheese Festival is ruined when someone steals all the sandwiches, and it's up to Paw & Order detectives, Purrlock and Marlowe, to figure out who did it! Was it Jinny Giraffe, who was upset that the Grilled Cheese Festival kept her from putting on her Art Festival? Was it Coach Allan Alligator, who was banned from the festival the year before? OR was it Purrlock's arch nemesis, Meowiearty, who was behind the dastardly deed? In Jason Platt's funny and delightfully illustrated book, readers will have the opportunity to put their Paw & Order detective hat on and try to solve the crime alongside Purrlock and Marlowe!

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The Fairy Tale Fixers: Cinderella

Deborah Underwood

The Investigators meet The First Cat in Space in this hilarious graphic novel. Fairy and Mouse will forever change young readers' perspectives on stepmothers, princes, and pumpkins as they help Cinderella set things right when her carriage veers off course.

Every fairy tale needs a fairy. Because sometimes stories go off the rails, and this fairy knows just what to do to fix them.

Actually, he doesn't . . . He makes it up as he goes along.

And sometimes he needs help. A lot of help. Which is where Mouse comes in.

Together, she and Fairy will make sure this tale has a happily ever after--just maybe not the one you expect.

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Spy School Blackout

Stuart Gibbs

In the thirteenth book in Stuart Gibbs’s New York Times bestselling Spy School series, superspy middle schooler Ben Ripley goes off the grid to eliminate a cybersecurity threat.

After a devious computer hacker pulls off the CIA’s worst-case scenario, shutting down power networks all over the world, Ben and his fellow spies-in-training are forced to make a harrowing emergency landing of their plane in Indonesia. While chaos begins to erupt around the planet, Ben deduces that his team is closer to the mysterious hacker’s base than anyone else. But with all computers and phones down, there’s no way to communicate with anyone at the CIA. 

On their latest mission to save the world, Ben and his friends face a conniving villain, assassins, pirates, sharks, and very big lizards in the most remote—and deadly—location of any spy school yet!

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Sunnyside School

Lindsay Ward

"This is an awesome addition to all collections. The bonus [to this community helpers book] is the school -setting. The illustrations are cute and appealing to the eye."--School Library Journal (STARRED REVIEW)

Meet everyone who works in a school in this fun, interactive story that is the book to introduce kids to how a school works.

Perfect for fans of Richard Scarry's Busy, Busy World.

Welcome to Sunnyside School! It's the first day of school, and Ali is missing her best friend, who moved away over the summer. Her younger brother, Matty, is nervous about starting kindergarten. And Mila is a new kid in the second grade. What will they do and discover at Sunnyside School?

This fun, interactive paper-over-board book is perfect to teach kids about all the different people and departments who support them at school. Includes a detailed glossary, counting prompts, and search-and-find elements!

A School Library Journal Brilliant Picture Book Star

Don't miss all Lindsay Ward's interactive and informative picture books:

Helping Hospital: A Community Helpers BookTrusty Town Hall: A Community Helpers BookThe White House: A Meet the Nation's Capital BookThe Capitol: A Meet the Nation's Capital Book?

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Dog Man: Big Jim Believes: a Graphic Novel (Dog Man #14): from the Creator of Captain Underpants

Dav Pilkey

Power up with Dog Man: Big Jim Believes from the global #1 bestselling author and award-winning artist Dav Pilkey. Join the journey as our heroes discover the influence of belief and find truth from within. With threads of self-awareness, confidence, and integrity, Dav Pilkey masterfully crafts a humorous and heartfelt adventure, weaving together the importance of truth, goodness, and believing in yourself.

 

The celebration comes to a halt for our heroes in Dog Man: Big Jim Believes when the mischievous Space Cuties From Space return. Our caped crusaders -- Dog Man (aka Scarlet Shedder), Commander Cupcake, and Sprinkles -- along with Mecha Molly discover that the city has changed, and nothing is how it should be. Can Big Jim's positivity and innocence help our heroes? Will Dog Man, Big Jim, Grampa, and Molly have the courage to trust each other and save the day? How does the past help shape the future? And who is the chosen one?

Readers will want to hold onto their hero capes as they soar into a new thrilling Dog Man story. The series follows the hilarious adventures of Dog Man, a lovable canine superhero and his friends. Each exciting graphic novel features inspiring characters, animated Flip-O-Ramas, and more!

For additional awesome, action-packed, inspiring escapades filled with creativity and imagination, read Dav Pilkey's Cat Kid Comic Club series, Super Diaper Baby graphic novels (now in full color), Captain Underpants series, and Dragon series. Also be sure to check out the two acclaimed major motion pictures: Dog Man and Captain Underpants: The First Epic Movie.

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Can I Keep It, Please?

John Sullivan

From the award-winning author of Kitten and the Night Watchman comes a tender and relatable picture book about what makes a pet truly special.

Evie’s pet is Sasha the cat. Sasha is the best pet ever. But Jenny has a friendly ferret. Garrett has cuddly guinea pigs. And David has a squawking parrot. Suddenly, to Evie, Sasha seems plain. And that makes Evie wonder…could there be a better pet for her? Until she realizes that all pets are special if you love them.

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Mousterworks

Angela C. Hawkins

Everyday moments can often led to the creation of beautiful art, even for the tiniest of creatures.

When young mice, Cosette and Pepin, join their Grand-mere on a visit to a mouse-sized museum, they cannot help but notice details, ask questions, and think creatively. As they move from gallery to gallery featuring the MOUSTERWORKS of famous master artists, their senses are awakened to spark their imaginations. From the dribble, dribble of milk splashing out of a pail to the pitter pat of toddeling feet on a stone floor, Cosette and Pepin are inspired to create their own mouster-pieces, using items and events found in their everyday lives, including a hunk of delicious cheese!

Filled with lovely representations of famous works of art, this delightful book engages the senses and will leave readers filled with wonder and inspiration to create their own works of art. Perfect for art teachers, school counselors, elementary teachers, library story times, and caregivers.

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This Moment Is Special

John Parra

Through all moments of the day, both large and small, a boy prepares for a Day of the Dead celebration, in this “comforting” (Publishers Weekly, starred review) and “heartfelt…both gentle and profound” (School Library Journal) picture book from Pura Belpré Honor–winning author-illustrator John Parra.

A single day in a boy’s life is filled with family, love, and inspiration as he prepares for the Día de Muertos celebration and remembers that all moments are special. Each moment reminds us of our family and those who have gone before us. Today holds a special promise, una promesa especial.

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Before I Lived Here

Stacy S. Jensen

Journey backward in time through all the layers of history that led up to your neighborhood's existence.

The building you live in has probably been around longer than you, so you may think it's been there forever. But no matter where you live, a whole lot happened before your home was built. 

In Before I Lived Here, a boy peels away each layer of the history of the land his house sits on. Follow along from the construction of the neighborhood back to the planning of it; from the ranchers and log cabins that predated it, back to the region's Indigenous people and their eviction from the land . . . all the way back to the time of the dinosaurs.

Before I Lived Here reminds us that history isn't something that happens far away, to other people--it's in our own backyards. Debut author Stacy S. Jensen makes the learning readily digestible. There's something here for every reader--from the irresistible depiction of construction sites for vehicle fans, to the somber facts of indigenous displacement recounted without flinching, making for a great family conversation starter on many different levels.

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An Abundance of Light

Lauren Stringer

Henri Matisse searches for light and inspiration in Morocco in the year 1912 in this vibrant picture book biography telling the story of a formative experience in the painter’s life.

Henri Matisse loves to paint colors bright and bold and light. But during a cold, rainy winter in Paris, everything and everyone, including Henri, feels cloudy and dark. Henri can’t paint. Following the advice of a good friend, Henri packs his bags and a trunk full of canvases, paints, brushes, and inks and travels to Tangier, Morocco, hoping to find an abundance of light. But when he arrives, Tangier is suffering its coldest, rainiest winter in years! What will Henri do?

This illuminating picture book biography introduces readers to the genius and inspiration of Henri Matisse as he discovers that sometimes the darkest shadows bring the brightest light.

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A Monstrous Bedtime

Kerilynn Wilson

Pacific Northwest Booksellers Association Book Award Shortlist

Oregon Book Award Finalist

"Thoroughly charming. A creature feature worthy of every child's nightly routine." --Kirkus Reviews
Bedtime routines are important for a good night's sleep--even for the monster under your bed! Award-winning author-artist Kerilynn Wilson cleverly subverts expectations with this cozy and endearing read-aloud for fans of Goodnight, Goodnight, Construction Site and Good Night, Gorilla.
A glass of water, a fan whirring gently, a story, and a song. Close your eyes. Time to sleep.
But what if the monster under your bed can't fall asleep? How do you help it? Join one little girl determined to help her monster with a special--monster-sized!--version of her nightly ritual.
Deceptively simple text skillfully captures the comfort young children take in routine, while colorful artwork--full of subtle detail--casts the monster as a friend and co-conspirator. Kerilynn Wilson's imaginative take on evergreen themes makes A Monstrous Bedtime a must-have for every bedtime. For fans of The Going to Bed Book, Everybody in the Red Brick Building, and Sleep Like a Tiger.
 

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Beverley, Bat Your Service

Kelly Collier

An enthusiastic bat tries to be the perfect host for a human family in this laugh-out-loud, charming picture book perfect for fans of Penelope Rex, Gustavo the Shy Ghost, and Jory John!

Beverley the Bat loves having guests at his big, old house—or he would, if anyone ever stopped by. Then one day a human family moves in. Beverley rolls out the welcome mat by filling the house with eau de rotten egg (Grandma’s favorite), cooking delicious Bolognese de millipede for dinner, and thoughtfully shredding the clothes the family brought to make comfy nests.

But for some reason the humans don’t seem to appreciate Beverley’s gestures. How can the little bat become the host with the most?

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Hola. ¡adiós!

Rhode Montijo

Say HOLA to a hilarious kite-flying adventure in Skeletown with everyone's favorite Día de los Muertos-inspired characters that will lead to giggles with English and Spanish readers alike!

Hold on to your hats--it's a windy day in Skeletown! It's the perfect time to play outside and fly a kite with friends. But if Skully isn't careful, he'll have to say ADIOS to his handmade kite. Is he just one gust of wind away from a whole tangle of trouble?

With a clever text comprised of only 2 words, Hola. ¡Adiós!​ features dynamic, neon green art that pops off the pages, a completely unique approach to storytelling, and a wildly appealing (but not scary!) cast of calavera characters from the fantastical world of Skeletown. Here's a rambunctious romp sure to delight bilingual and emerging Spanish language readers (but also simple enough to be completely understood by speakers of any language).

Don't miss these other books in the Skeletown series!

Skeletown: Sí. ¡No!

Skeletown: Más. ¡Menos!

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All About Brains

Lake Bell

In her debut picture book, acclaimed actress, screenwriter, and director Lake Bell weaves a joyfully whimsical story that celebrates the beauty of neurodiversity.

For share day at school, Nova has to bring in something that makes her unique and she knows just the thing: her breakfast pickles!

But when the fridge opens to an empty pickle jar, Nova has to find a new share and her morning medicine leads to the perfect idea: her brain sparkles!

When Nova tells the class about her epilepsy, at first they’re confused, and she starts to worry, are her brain sparkles too unique? But Nova isn’t the only one in her class with a unique brain, and when her classmates start sharing too, what follows is a fun exploration of all the wonderful ways people and their brains are different.

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We Are American, Too

Kristen Mei Chase

An exquisitely illustrated and beautifully penned picture book about Asian American history, identity, and pride.

Mei is a young Chinese American girl filled with curiosity about her family’s history in Washington, D.C. Delving into their tales of courage, hope, and resilience, Mei explores the strength and spirit that unites her Chinese heritage with her American identity. 

Then Mei finds herself at a rally against Asian hate and she realizes that it is her time to make a difference. Armed with the inspiring stories of her ancestors and backed by the unconditional support of her family, Mei takes center stage to start an empowering chant, “We are American, too!”

We Are American, Too takes young readers on a stirring journey with Mei, confronting anti-Asian hate, and igniting unity with a rousing call to celebrate our shared American identity.

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Aggie and the Ghost

Matthew Forsythe

An ALA Notable Children’s Book
A New York Magazine Best New Book for Kids
A LitHub Most Anticipated Children’s Book of 2025
A School Library Journal Best Book of the Year
A Kirkus Reviews Best Picture Book of the Year

“This might be a perfect picture book.” —Quill & Quire (starred review) 

A solitary child and her rule-breaking ghost roommate learn the value of compromise in this cheeky picture book. —Shelf Awareness (starred review)

“A book that captures the dance of unlikely bonds and a way to move from a place of acceptance.” —Publishers Weekly (starred review)

From Matthew Forsythe, the creator of the acclaimed and beloved Pokko and the Drum, comes a “subtle, sweet” (Booklist, starred review) picture book about rules. And sharing. And an epic game of tic-tac-toe.

Aggie is very excited to live on her own—until she finds out her new house is haunted. But no fear, the situation is nothing that can’t be fixed with a carefully considered list of rules: No haunting after dark. No stealing socks. No eating all the food.

But the ghost doesn’t like playing by the rules and challenges Aggie to an epic game of tic-tac-toe—winner gets the house.

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I Hate Everything!

Sophy Henn

When a ghost is in a bad mood, his pal tries to turn his frown upside down in this irresistible picture book about there always being something to love.

A ghost is having a very bad day. He feels like he hates EVERYTHING! Lucky for him, he has a good ghost friend to talk it through with. Because if he doesn’t really hate sweets or flowers or dressing up, and he definitely doesn’t hate his friend, then maybe he doesn’t hate everything after all…

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The Golden Hoops

Jen Hayes Lee

Follow Janey on a magical journey as she searches for her missing hoop earring! A perfect picture book for fans of The Queen of Kindergarten and Hair Love.

Golden hoops are magic. That's what Mommy says.

And Janey has always wanted her own pair of glowing golden hoops, just like the ones her mother wears.

Finally, the day comes when Janey gets her own. With her hoops, Janey can do anything. She feels like a million bucks! But when she gets home, Janey discovers that one of her hoops has gone missing.

Without her special hoops, can Janey find her magic again

In this fun ode to the tradition of receiving a first pair of hoops, Janey experiences the beauty of inner magic and sisterhood--and learns just how far both can take her.

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The Everything Trail

Meg Fleming

Come along on an eye-popping journey through the forest with a group of young explorers ready to discover everything nature has to offer in this lyrical, awe-inspiring picture book full of “curiosity and wonder” (Publishers Weekly, starred review).

The wind waves its hand.
The trees take a bow.
Everything’s big.
And everything’s small…

From giant redwoods to tiny saplings, steep canyons to shallow creeks, and soaring eagles to crawling critters, there are endless wonders to discover along a trail through the forest. This sweeping story of a day spent in nature will inspire young readers to soak in all the marvels, big and small, that surround them.

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Good Boy

Andy Hirsch

“Hilarious and heartfelt.” —Megan Wagner Lloyd, author of Allergic

Charlie is an anxious kid. Ralph is an unpredictable rescue dog. Do they have what it takes to win on the agility course? 

Charlie’s life is a series of obstacles, not least of which is an uncontrollable urge to barf when his anxiety overwhelms him. Ralph is an unpredictable rescue dog with more energy than manners. The two make an unlikely pair but are the best of friends.

When Ralph causes a scene by following his boy to school, it’s suggested the two join a dog agility training group. Ralph is a natural—zipping in, around, and over obstacles at lightning speed. Agility training is a fun way for the pair to bond, but when Charlie even considers joining the other handlers at the big contest, his stomach begins to turn. Can the duo take a leap and cross the finish line?

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Ghouldilocks and the Three Ghosts

Annie Sullivan

A classic fairy tale is turned on its head when a creepy ghoul and three not-so-scary ghosts replace familiar characters in this funny holiday story.

Ghouldilocks and the Three Ghosts is the Halloween version of a well-known fairy tale. This Ghouldilocks has the same golden curls as the original, but styled with bones and tangles to suit this scary holiday. 

Ghouldilocks approaches a haunted mansion and steps inside. There she samples three bowls of ghoulosh, sits on a big chair, a medium chair, and a small chair. Next she tries out three beds--and falls asleep in the smallest one. The ghosts come home and instead of chasing Ghouldilocks away, they all become friends. The pages are sprinkled with speech balloons filled with silly Halloween jokes and puns. Colorful art includes sly details by a talented cartoonist will make readers laugh-out-loud.

This clever retelling of the classic Goldilocks and the Three Bears is perfect for Halloween.

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Perla and the Pirate

Isabel Allende

In the second children's book written by critically acclaimed, New York Times-bestselling superstar Isabel Allende, Perla, the mighty dog, saves her human brother, Nico Rico, after he gets lost on the way home from school.

Perla is a mighty dog who has two superpowers—making people love her and roaring like a lion.

When she finds out her human brother, Nico Rico, got lost on the way home from school, she knows she has to step in! But what will Perla do?

In a charming and poignant story, Isabel Allende continues her series about the bond between a child and a beloved pet.

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Pete the Cat's Cool New Ride

James Dean

Ride along with Pete and his friends in this STEM-themed picture book from the #1 New York Times bestselling classic series Pete the Cat!

Pete the Cat just got some new wheels. Beep, beep, beep! And as he's grooving down the street, he bumps into one friend, two friends, three!

When they pile up in the car, Pete can't keep count and wonders if there is room for everyone.

In his fifteenth hardcover picture book, Pete the Cat learns that there's always more room for friends.

From the authors of the #1 New York Times bestselling Pete the Cat series, James and Kimberly Dean, this picture book is reminiscent of Pete favorites like Pete the Cat and His Four Groovy Buttons and perfect for fans of Grumpy Monkey by Suzanne Lang.

Don't miss Pete's other adventures, including Pete the Cat: I Love My White Shoes, Pete the Cat: Rocking in My School Shoes, Pete the Cat and His Four Groovy Buttons, Pete the Cat Saves Christmas, Pete the Cat and His Magic Sunglasses, Pete the Cat and the Bedtime Blues, Pete the Cat and the New Guy, Pete the Cat and the Cool Cat Boogie, Pete the Cat and the Missing Cupcakes, Pete the Cat and the Perfect Pizza Party, Pete the Cat: Crayons Rock!, Pete the Cat's Groovy Imagination, Pete the Cat Plays Hide-and-Seek, and Pete the Cat Screams for Ice Cream!

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Fish Fry Friday

Winsome Bingham

In this mouthwatering companion to Soul Food Sunday, a child joins his grandmother in catching and cooking to prepare for the family's fish fry.

Fish Fry Friday is the perfect follow-up to Soul Food Sunday, a beloved Coretta Scott King Book Award Illustrator Honor Book.

One special Friday when school is closed, our narrator finally gets to join Granny for her day's routine. Rods and reels, lures and lines, bobbers and baits are packed in Granny's Jeep.

Everyone cheers when Granny arrives at the pier--"the queen has arrived!" After reeling in the perfect catch together, they carefully scale and skin, cut and gut, batter and fry the fish into beautiful filets.

But the family meal isn't complete until Grandson adds his own special side dish to the table--made just like Granny taught Momma, and like Momma taught him.

On Friday evenings, we go to Granny's for a fish fry.

And on Friday mornings, Granny fishes.

This Friday, "You coming fishing with me," Granny says.

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Menudo Sunday

María Dolores Águila

Paletero Man meets Besos for Baby in this Spanish-English counting picture book that’s bursting with all the love, laughter, and chaos found at a large family gathering.

Sundays are the best: that’s when a little girl and her mamá, abuelitos, tías and primos all gather together to eat yummy menudo, a traditional Mexican soup. But when playtime with the cousins and family dogs gets out of hand and Abuelito Esteban’s special bowl of menudo breaks, everyone has to pitch in to make a new batch! Through all the menudo mishaps and sneaky snacks for perritos with wagging tails, young readers will giggle as they learn to count from 1-15 in Spanish and English. Bonus materials at the back of the book include a glossary of Spanish words, a note from the author, and tips for hosting your very own Menudo Sunday!

A Chicago Public Library and School Library Journal Best Book of the Year

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Grumpy Monkey School Stinks!

Suzanne Lang

An original graphic novel based on the #1 New York Times bestselling Grumpy Monkey picture books, perfect for children who are ready for longer storylines and hilarious dialogue. This time, Jim Panzee is going back to school. And he is NOT pleased.

During a game of hide-and-seek, Jim Panzee causes a real stink. Literally. He walks right into Polecat’s log to hide and instead gets covered in Polecat’s smelly spray. His friends remind Jim that if he’d paid attention in class, he’d have learned to identify animals by their footprints. So it’s back to school for Jim!

Guess what! School can be fun—once you get into the swing of it! But when Jim finds himself failing, his best friend, Norman, helps him understand that learning doesn’t only happen when you get everything right—you can learn from your mistakes, too.

This silly back-to-school graphic novel will engage even the most reluctant readers and will keep kids laughing from the first page to the last.

Also inside: A Primate Primer from Jim’s mom! A trail mix recipe from Jim’s dad!

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Elephant Bowling and Other Animal Play

Richard Haynes

Take a walk on the wild side and prepare to be entertained by the shenanigans of critters around the globe.

Step into the fascinating world of animal playtime to find penguins surfing for the joy of it, primates playing peekaboo, and sneaky keas--the pranksters of the bird world--yanking one another's legs just for kicks. Creatures of all stripes like to play! Some play builds strength and teaches survival skills: a game of tug-of-war prepares wolf cubs for hunting and taking down prey, while games of hide-and-seek give mongooses practice at quick escapes, handy for outmaneuvering predators. Some games appear to be played simply for enjoyment: Polar bears love to slide down snowy hills, then climb back up and do it again. Gorilla parents swing, hug, and give bouncy rides to their children. And elephants have been known to lie in wait for a companion to come strolling along, then--BAROOM!--roll downhill to bowl them over like a friendly ball. Join Richard Haynes and Stephanie Laberis, creators of Orangutan Hats and Other Tools Animals Use, for another illuminating walk on the wild side. Scientific observations from the natural world, a glossary, and a bibliography combine with colorful and vivacious illustrations to make this guide an extra fun look at--fun!

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A Fix of Light

Kel Menton

A Booklist Editor's Choice: Books for Youth in 2025

This queer love story with a dark magical twist comes from an astonishing new Irish voice - perfect for fans of Daniel Jose Older.

Be careful. The dark is listening.

Hanan is supposed to be dead. The forest outside Skenashogue sent him home alive - but changed. A strange new magic makes every emotion a physical force he can't control. Bright and gentle, fox-like Pax is everything Hanan is not. And when he touches Hanan he mutes his secret power, quiets the curse. To survive their own darknesses they'll need to be honest with each other. But Hanan isn't sure Pax will like what he finds out...

Can their love help them find their way back to the light?

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Come As You Are

Dahlia Adler

In this opposites attract romance for fans of Begin Again and Better Than the Movies, a fresh start doesn't have to mean changing yourself.

Hot on the heels of a broken heart, Everett “Evie” Riley arrives at Camden Academy ready for a new beginning - one far away from her cheating ex-boyfriend, the sister who stole him, and the best friend who let it happen. But her fresh start is stopped in its tracks when she's accidentally placed in an all-boys dorm, with no choice but to stay.

When rumors and gossip about Evie's housing predicament spread like wildfire, she decides the only way to survive is to lean into her questionable new reputation... but she's definitely going to require help. Her grumpy emo dorm mate Salem Grayson isn't exactly her first choice, but he does need her help to repair his relationship with his parents every bit as much as she needs his to learn how to be cool. And so they make a pact: he'll teach her how to be bad, if she teaches him how to be good.

It's a flawless plan, except while Salem thrives academically, romantically, and–annoyingly enough– even physically, Evie's quest feels like one dead end after another. But when Evie realizes what she wants more than anything, she'll have to contend with her thrice-broken heart and figure out how to become someone capable of chasing happiness.

Dahlia Adler’s Come As You Are is about refusing to accept less than you deserve, and realizing that the best relationships are forged with people who know exactly who you are.

"Heartfelt and hopeful. In Come As You Are, Dahlia Adler deftly combines the witty dialogue of a grumpy-sunshine romance with the emotional turmoil of searching for self-acceptance. This is the royal flush of YA romances!" - Kristy Boyce, bestselling author of Dungeons and Drama

"Dahlia Adler’s uplifting Come As You Are is full of snappy banter, personality-plus characters, and the chaos and complications that come with being sixteen. Plus, a giggle-inducing grumpy-sunshine romance. This fresh take on the boarding school story is a delightful way to spend the afternoon!" - K.L. Walther, New York Times bestselling author of The Summer of Broken Rules

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Black Joy

Charnaie Gordon

Follow a day in the life of a young Black child and learn the different ways we experience love every day with this striking illustrated children’s book.

Created in 1993, Black Love Day is celebrated annually on February 13. This holiday was created to demonstrate love, forgiveness, and acceptance among Black people. Throughout the course of a day, a young boy observes and experiences many different kinds of Black love—the romantic love between his parents, the familial love of his siblings and family, the admiration for a teacher at school, the respect for community leaders, and more. 
 
Celebrate Black love, culture, and achievements by implementing the five tenets:

  1. Love toward the Creator
  2. Love toward Self
  3. Love toward Family
  4. Love within the Black Community
  5. Love for the Black race

    Black Joy is an inspiring story showcasing how these tenets can be used every day throughout the year to express love, gratitude, and positivity for everything in life.

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Chidori

Jennifer Maruno

"Sato's signature mixed-media artwork has a three-dimensional feel, well suited for young readers; it deftly evokes the power of the earthquake and subsequent tsunami on the town, as well as the people's quiet sadness and recovery. A moving introduction to a tragic event."--Kirkus Reviews

Hana is at school when the devastating tsunami sweeps over Japan. But when the dark wave finally returns to the ocean, it has taken more than Hana could have ever imagined.

Hana's school sits on the side of a hill with a view of the ocean. One day, while in class, a tsunami drags the ocean across her village. Hana watches in horror as the dark water crashes into trees and tosses cars and boats around. When she is finally reunited with her family, she learns that the wave has taken more than she could have ever imagined. To cope with her grief, Hana begins to paint chidori (a thousand birds).

Miki Sato's collage art, which combines paper, textiles, and watercolor, creates a three-dimensional world that is rich in emotion, detail, and texture.

Jennifer Maruno writes with compassion and heart, bringing life to this story inspired by true events.

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All About Patterns

Elizabeth Rusch

An enlightening picture book exploration about how patterns fill and shape our everyday lives. This mindful meditation challenges kids to see the world differently.

What do you know about patterns? There are simple alternating patterns and more complex ones that spin and spread out. There are patterns in stories and patterns in music. When you dance, you're making patterns with your whole body.

You might even notice a comforting pattern to your day. When that pattern is broken, everything can feel chaotic. But sometimes breaking a pattern can make room for a new one worth repeating!

A thought-provoking and visually stunning exploration of the math, art, and emotion of patterns.

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Crack Goes the Cascarón

Sara Andrea Fajardo

Shell-abrate a joyous Latine tradition, with Toti and his family in this upbeat bilingual story, hatched in time for Easter.

What are cascarones: Cascarones are empty egg shells that have been colored, filled with paper confetti, and sealed!

The hunt is on to figure out who will be the reigning champ of Cascarones, and Toti knows that he has his family beat. His parents are too easy, they make old-school cascarones with confetti inside. His sister, Carlita wishes she could create cascarones like him, and his Abuela doesn't even stand a chance. When the day of Cascarones arrives, will Toti seize his moment or will it be scrambled when he learns someone has switched his cascarones for fake ones!

With a cheeky twist at the end, readers will laugh and relish at the antics of Toti and his family in this exuberant bilingual story.

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Tíos and Primos

Jacqueline Alcántara

A little girl meets more relatives than she can count—but how will she communicate with them if she can’t speak their language?

It’s a little girl’s first trip to her papa’s homeland, and she’s wowed by all the amazing sights and sounds—and especially by the size of her enormous family! But she only knows a little Spanish, and it’s hard not to be able to share jokes and stories. Fortunately, her relatives help her see that there are other ways they can connect, and soon she feels like she’s right where she belongs: in the heart of a loving family, learning as she goes along.

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Faith Takes the Train

Kesi Augustine

Follow Faith on a joyful journey on a New York City train, where she learns a delicious lesson about courage and being kind. A perfect pick for fans of Milo Imagines the World, Last Stop on Market Street, and Saturday at the Food Pantry.

Faith takes the train with her mother most days, and today she's eating one of Grandma's delicious sandwiches. Isaiah, who usually sings a song on their ride home, instead asks a question that quiets a busy train into awkward silence.

"Can anyone please spare some change? A bite to eat?"

When Faith sees his face, her heart goes thump-thump-thump. Will she have the courage to answer?

This sweet and relatable picture book from author Kesi Augustine and illustrator Mokshini is sure to spark conversations about the small ways we can show kindness and help people in need.

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For a Girl Becoming

Joy Harjo

A baby girl is welcomed to the breathing world by generations of her family and set on the magnificent journey of becoming. As she grows, she is reminded of her connections to the natural world; to her family, her ancestors, her neighbors; to the source of all magic and sorrow--and of her responsibility to uphold and honor those connections.

With US Poet Laureate Joy Harjo's transcendent verse and Pura Belpré Award winner Adriana Garcia's monumental illustrations, For a Girl Becoming acts as a blessing and a harbinger for a young girl's life--and reminds those of us who still stand at the door of becoming that it is our relationships with nature and with each other that carry us through it.

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Mystery James Digs Her Own Grave

Ally Russell

Abandoned in a cemetery and raised in a funeral home, a girl who can see and smell the supernatural must solve the mystery of a priceless heirloom stolen from her family's business. Perfect for fans of Netflix’s Wednesday and Beetlejuice!

"A new middle grade heroine you’re going to love."—BookRiot

AN EDGAR AWARD NOMINEE • A BRAM STOKER AWARD NOMINEE

13-year-old Mystery—who was abandoned in a cemetery and raised in a funeral home—is plagued by sleep paralysis and the smell of ghosts, but she's used to that. Even though her life might seem "strange" on the outside, she loves it.

That is until a priceless heirloom goes missing and her family's funeral home is in danger of being shut down. To clear her Tia's good name, Mystery embarks on an adventure to figure out what really happened to the misplaced necklace.

But to do so, she must contend with the angry patriarch of the town’s wealthiest family, a sleep paralysis demon, a graverobber, and the ghastly half-vampire, half-ghost that’s lurking in the Olde Ellis Town Cemetery.

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Candace, the Universe, and Everything

Sherri L. Smith

A speculative middle grade novel about three generations of Black girls connected across time and space through a wormhole in their school locker.

A School Library Journal and Chicago Public Library Best Book of the Year

What if your locker was a wormhole to the past?

On the first day of eighth grade, Candace Wells opens her locker and is astonished when an unusual bird flies out. Soon after, a notebook mysteriously appears on the top shelf, labeled Tracey Auburn, 1988. Stranger still, as Candace reads the notebook, new messages start to appear.

Professor Tracey Auburn only vaguely remembers a bird flying into her locker in eighth grade, way back in 1988, and losing a notebook she could have sworn she put on the top shelf. Until Candace shows up at her office with the missing notebook forty years later.

Quantum physicist Loretta Spencer will never forget the bird flying out of her locker in eighth grade in 1948. Her life’s work has been to study the portal and others like it, and now she needs Tracey’s and Candace’s help to complete her research.

So begins an unlikely friendship and a hunt around Chicago and the state of Illinois to uncover the secrets of the locker, the universe, and everything. One thing’s for sure: Eighth grade will never be the same again.

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I, Rock: a geology tale

Katie Slivensky

“Rockhounds will delight in finding out how rocks are born” (School Library Journal, starred review) in this charmingly funny and thoroughly informative nonfiction picture book told from the perspective of a proud four-billion-year-old rock.

Rock tells his sensational, sometimes harrowing, sometimes hilarious, geological tale to a group of eager students. From his humble beginnings beneath Earth’s crust, to a volcano blast that propelled him onto land, to the storms and earthquakes and dinosaur encounters and deep-sea adventures that finally bring him to the bottom of a student’s shoe, come discover what makes Rock rock!

Detailed informational sidebars and extensive backmatter are the cherry on top of this illuminating and accessible crash course in geology.

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Are There Rainbows in Space?

Sheila Kanani

What color is a polar bear under its fur? How do flamingos turn pink? What is a blue moon? Find the answers to all these fun questions and much more in this fact-filled adventure into the colorful world around us!

The science of colors is hard at work all the time—from ultraviolet light to the baby blue tint of the sky. Readers will learn tons of interesting scientific facts about color and its whys and hows—like why blood is red, how hippos keep cool, and how some animals can change color to hide from predators. Bursting with incredible illustrations and some seriously cool science, this book is sure to dazzle both nature lovers and reluctant readers alike.

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Hidden Heroes of Science

Peter Gallivan

Uncover the unnamed heroes who contributed to some of our world's most important science.

Explore the hidden heroes that created the miraculous things we find all around us in this science book for children aged 7-9.

Do you ever find yourself feeling curious about who created the science behind some of our most impressive structures? Or wonder who it was that invented the equipment you find in your classroom? Well, wonder no more. This groundbreaking book covers all the lost contributors to the world's most important scientific discoveries.

This science book for children offers:

  • Content produced by an exciting partnership with The Royal Institution, world leaders in science.
  • An exciting introduction to lesser-known scientific figures such as Maria Merian, Gregor Mendel, and Percy Julian.
  • Inspirational stories from pioneering scientists who faced adversity, to unsung innovators who paved the way for modern advancements.


For curious children who have always wanted to know who it was that created coding, or how on earth the Egyptian Pyramids were built so long ago and yet still look brand new, The Royal Institution; the home of science, has all the answers.

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Little Myths Medusa

Emma Adams

Dive into Greek mythology and learn how Medusa became the snake-haired monster she is in this exciting picture book in the Little Myths series.

Most people know Medusa for the halo of snakes that sit on her head and her ability to turn anyone who looks at her into stone. But once upon a time, Medusa was just a little girl. Sure, she was a powerful gorgon, but in lots of other ways she was just like you. She fought with her sisters, but all she really wanted was friendship, love, and to feel like she fit in. But she grew up, people were mean to her, and she grew angry, vengeful, and ultimately dangerous. This is her story. A humorous and informative "biography" of the famous snake-haired monster from Greek mythology, Medusa's origin story comes to life for little myth lovers in vibrant illustrations and comic-like panels, perfect for young and emerging readers.

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Mud to the Rescue!

Tanya Konerman

Drip! Drop! Splatter! Splash! Rain falls and soil turns into slippy, sloppy, sludgy mud. Around the world, animals of all sizes seek mud to help them survive and thrive in every season and every stage of life. From blocking the sun's harsh rays and painful parasites, to building homes, soothing upset stomachs, and even having fun, it's Mud...to the Rescue! Join elephants, alligators, beavers, birds, pigs, and many more creatures as they find helpful--and sometimes unusual--uses for nature's squishy, squelchy soil...MUD!

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Soggy Like Cush Cush (A Picture Book Celebration of Creole Culture for Kids)

Karly Pierre

A gloomy, rainy day is turned upside down when Gran-moman takes Petite Marie on an adventure through town. Celebrate joy, Louisiana Creole culture, community, and the love of a wonderful grandparent in this gorgeous story about making every day count.

"An inspiring, beautifully told book of golden moments to be savored." Kirkus Reviews, Starred Review

"Conveys the big power of small actions and the bolstering effect of community." Publisher's Weekly, Starred Review 

"As Petite Marie moves around the town with her grandmother, their loving bond is expressed through all
their interactions." Booklist

Rain falls outside an old Louisiana Creole house until the ground is as soggy as a bowl of cush cush. Petite Marie thinks she's going to have to spend all day indoors, but Gran-moman takes Petite Marie on an unexpected journey around town. Soon, Petite Marie is having a magical day filled with friends, delicious Louisiana creole cooking, and a lot of care and kindness. With the help of Gran-moman she discovers that any day can be beautiful, no matter the weather.

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The Poet and the Bees

Amy Novesky

A mesmerizing picture book about the iconic poet Sylvia Plath and her final writings

Love, bees don’t live long.
But honey lives forever. Words, too.

Sylvia Plath is remembered for her stirring poetry and the tragic legacy her work left behind. But it is lesser known that she was a beekeeper and completed her last book of poems while tending to her bees and harvesting honey.

Author and beekeeper Amy Novesky shines a new light on the life and work of Plath through the lens of her last seasons with her beloved bees—and how during their short and busy lives, they filled her with inspiration and hope—while the evocative paintings by Stonewall Book Award winner Jessica Love reveal the tenderness and wonder of one of America's most iconic poets.

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Where's Waldo? Amazing Journeys: the Ultimate Maze Adventure!

Martin Handford

A-maze-ing! Follow Waldo on a journey through impossibly intricate mazes--with enough twists and turns to make you giddy. 

Join Waldo on his most labyrinthine vacation ever, where every place he visits is a mind-boggling maze! Head to the airport and trace your finger along the paths to plot a route from start to finish. Blast off to an awesome space center, where the mission is following rocket trails to find one that reaches all the way to the moon. Line up to explore a cave, elaborate gardens, a museum, a film studio, a candy factory . . . even a disco where you can strut your stuff across the dance floor. More than fifty routes to tackle! And when you reach the end of the book, you're not done yet--you'll find checklists with over one hundred more things to search for throughout. Good thing the fun is always in the journey, because reaching your destination will take all the wits you can muster!

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Eid for Nylah

Nizrana Farook

A heartwarming tale of a community preparing for and celebrating Eid al-Fitr, seen through the eyes of a curious neighborhood cat!

Nylah the cat is making her usual visits to the homes on her street, but something is very different today . . .

Families are creating decorations or making food, trying on new clothes, and decorating their hands with henna. Everyone is very busy, and they won't let Nylah help! But why does nobody have any time to play? All is finally revealed as the community comes together for a big Eid celebration, where everyone is welcome - especially Nylah!

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The Gift of Eid

Shifa Saltagi Safadi

A retelling of the Gift of the Magi, set against the backdrop of the Great Mosque of Damascus.

With Baba gone, Yasmine doesn’t have enough money to buy Mama’s Eid gift and can’t think of anything she wants for herself when Mama asks. While Mama’s haggling with the baker, she gets an idea. When she gets lost in the Souq, Yasmine realizes that true Eid joy comes from being together.

Set in the famous Souk Al-Hamidiyah and the Great Mosque of Damascus, this heartfelt story offers a Muslim background to one of the best-loved stories of all time.

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It's Halloween, Curious George!

H. A. Rey

Curious George trick-or-treats through the neighborhood in this festive Halloween book with lift-the-flap surprises!

Celebrate Halloween with Curious George!

Join Curious George and the man in the yellow hat as they decorate their house, prepare for trick-or-treaters, choose their costumes, and set out for a night of Halloween fun! The perfect book for little ones to lift flaps and explore during the holiday season.

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The Zombees

Justin Colón

“This charming read-aloud will be requested on repeat.” —School Library Journal (starred review)

A swarm of zombie bees invades an unsuspecting town on Halloween night in this delightfully spooky picture book from the author of The Quacken—perfect for fans of Creepy Carrots and Los Gatos Black on Halloween.

What’s that creepy buzzing sound coming from the graveyard ground?

ZOMBEES!

When these undead insects invade, they send everyone fleeing in fright.

Are they hunting for a snack?
Do they like the taste of veins?
Have they come to eat your brains?!

Find out in this rhyming Halloween tale with an unexpected twist!

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Swept Away at Witch Camp

Erin Vanessa

A magical story of a little witch who must face her fears of failure in order to succeed at camp. An inclusive picture book featuring two mommies and a child with a hearing device for fans of Kiki's Delivery Service. 

Sid loves being a witch. She can make a Rainbow Mushroom potion. She can turn butterflies into frogs. And she can use her crystal ball to predict the weather! But she's nervous about starting Witch Camp. Why? Because Sid has a secret--she can't fly on a broomstick!

Sid confesses to her moms that she's nervous about the Broomstick Race and that she's going to quit Witch Camp for good. But then something happens at home, reminding Sid that being a witch isn't just about flying well--and that maybe trying your best and not giving up is part of Witch Camp too. This empowering book about self-esteem provides kids with a spunky role model for facing one's fears and trying to succeed.

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My Brother's Butt Is Haunted

Dan Poblocki

Get ready for a buttload of laughs in this hilarious picture book about a pair of siblings who face a frightening question—can butts be haunted? Featuring a glow-in-the-dark cover!

Two siblings are going to sleep over at Gramma and Grampa’s creepy new house for the very first time. Their neighbors say there’s a ghost living there, but these kids definitely aren’t scared. That is…until the dead of night, when strange sounds and smells start coming from the older brother’s pants. There’s only one logical conclusion… His butt must be haunted!

Filled with gas, ghosts, and plenty of giggles, this book will inspire endless rereads as it turns farts into the butt of the joke.

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Luna and the Witch Throw a Halloween Party

Aubrey Plaza

NATIONAL BESTSELLER • From award-winning actress Aubrey Plaza and writer Dan Murphy comes the story of a feisty wannabe bruja and the kooky witch she helps to throw the best Halloween party of the season!

Luna Lopez wants to be a witch.

Pheenie the witch wants to throw a Halloween party.

Together this unlikely pair strikes a deal: If Luna helps her pull off the best, most spectacular soiree in the neighborhood, Pheenie will teach her the secrets to her potions and spells.

There’s only one problem: Getting this party on track is harder than Luna expected. She’ll have to curb every one of the frazzled witch’s creepy, crawly instincts to make sure the evening is full of both tricks and treats . . . and not a festive flop!

From goblins and ghouls to kids and cats, all are invited to party in this Halloween celebration from award-winning actress and producer Aubrey Plaza and co-author Dan Murphy.

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The Witching Hour

Jennifer Harris

A family of witches desperately tries to entertain a cranky baby in this delightful picture book for fans of Little Witch Hazel and The Little Ghost Who Was a Quilt.

In the witching hour between dinner and bedtime, anything can happen: laughter, tears, fun screaming, not-fun screaming . . . parents, siblings, pets and neighbors are all familiar with this dreaded time of day.

What happens when that cranky baby is part of a family of witches?

Turns out, it's pretty much the same, except sometimes the toys levitate and the soothing songs sound a little different . . .

The Witching Hour is a spare, slyly funny and deeply familiar slice-of-life story featuring a fussy little witch and their increasingly desperate family.

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Bob the Vampire Snail

Andrea Zuill

In this hilarious and heartwarming picture book, join Bob the vampire snail as he embraces his unique love of tomatoes, discovers new and peculiar sleeping talents, and forms an unexpected friendship.

"A work that young readers can sink their teeth into." —Publishers Weekly, starred review

Did you know all snails are named Bob? It's a fact! And this is the story of one of those Bobs and the night his life changed forever. First, he heard a SCREAM... then a C-R-A-C-K... and then he felt a drip, drip, drip... and then, poof! He was a vampire snail. 

Fangs? Check. No reflection? Check. Wings? You bet. And so Bob, now very different from all the other Bobs, sets out to live life as a vampire snail, discovering his knack for sleeping upside down and his taste for tomatoes. He's alone in his vampire-ness, until one day Bob meets someone very similar....

Endearing and laugh-out-loud funny, this is a story about individuality, friendship, and tomatoes, as only beloved creator Andrea Zuill can tell it.

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We Are Already Haunting Here!

Gideon Sterer

A 2025 School Library Journal Best Picture Book of the Year

This adorable Halloween story celebrates finding one's place in the world and making space for others, perfect for fans of Flavia Z. Drago's The World of Gustavo series.

A little ghost sets out into the world to find a place of his own to haunt, but it's not so easy! Every place he goes is already haunted by someone else. He perseveres and finally finds it--a dusty, creaky home, perfect for haunting. But then he hears a knock at the door. It's another little ghost in need of a place to roam. Will he scare the other ghost away or make room for a new friend?

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No More Mr. Mice Guy

Fiona Ross

A hilarious, icky, sticky, spooky story with fluorescent green slime throughout--perfect for fans of Halloween ages 3-7!

Squeak the mouse has won a contest, and the prize is a beastly-looking, foul-smelling dessert. Grandma is disgusted and throws it away, but Squeak can’t stop thinking about his icky, sticky prize. So, he decides to taste it...but when he takes a bite, he turns into Hyde, a hungry, slime-spewing beast! Is there anyone who can help?

Created by author-illustrator Fiona Ross, this hilarious, wonderfully disgusting story--with fluorescent green slime throughout--is perfect for fans of Halloween, and all things gooey and grotesque!

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Into the Bewilderness

Gus Gordon

Perfect for fans of The Wild Robot, Gus Gordon's graphic novel debut follows two furry friends on a clever and cozy adventure when they embark on a journey to the Big City for the first time.

In the Bewilderness, life is good.

Best friends Luis (the large furry one) and Pablo (the small furry one) spend their days wandering through nature, playing songs on the guitar, and eating Slow Joe McNally's pinecone porridge with their neighbors.

When dreamer Luis receives an unexpected invitation to attend a performance of The Weary Mermaid in the big, bustling city, he finds it hard to ignore the allure of the bright lights.

Luckily, he doesn't have to go it alone--and it's a good thing, because it's a long journey through the Bewilderness, and Luis has many questions. Will they meet laser-eyed gargoyles, zombie chickens, or tyrannical cow rulers? Will they get there on time? Why is quicksand so slow if it's called quicksand? Thankfully, with his grumpy but loyal best friend by his side, they'll soon find out.

. . . Or will they?

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Sugar Shack

Lucy Knisley

In the final volume of the bestselling Peapod Farm series, a city kid turned country girl whose life has been changing nonstop is settling into her new place in the family—only for unexpected drama to strike between sisters.

"Like [Raina] Telgemeier, [Lucy] Knisley has a knack for crystallizing coming-of-age anxieties and social dynamics."—The New York Times

A Graphic Novels and Comics Round Table (GNCRT) Outstanding Comics Award Honor for Best Children's Series

Jen couldn't be more excited to spend time on Peapod Farm with her stepsisters, Andy and Reese. For months, Jen has been so focused on trying to figure out how she fits into her new blended family that she hasn't realized she's found her place... that is, until Reese calls her "sister."

Excited and content, Jen thought she had figured everything out, but now she's not so sure. A rift emerges between the girls as Andy doubles down on being Reese's ACTUAL sister, while Jen is just the STEP sister. With Andy's attitude bringing a cold front to the farm, it seems like it's going to be a long winter.

Maybe between Peapod Farm's first snow and learning how to tap a tree for sugar at winter's end, Jen and Andy both will have a chance to truly understand what it means to be family.

Look for the whole Peapod Farm series
STEPPING STONES • APPLE CRUSH • SUGAR SHACK

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Atana: Atana and the Jade Mermaid

Vivian Zhou

A mermaid, a firebird, and a witch fight to save the magic of their world before it ceases to exist in this epic conclusion to acclaimed author Vivian Zhou's fantasy duology. Perfect for fans of Tidesong and Wingbearer!

Atana may be one step closer to discovering her past, but it didn't come without a cost. Though the mermaid and her companions--Ren, the last known firebird, and Cosmos, her witch guard-turned-friend--narrowly escaped the Witch Queen, time is running short. They may have foiled the Queen's plans to use Ren to revive their world's broken magic cycle, but Ren is still growing weaker by the minute...

Atana and Cosmos are determined to help their friend recover, but Ren's priorities are elsewhere. After discovering that the firebirds of old are responsible for destroying the flow of magic for all beings, she is determined to right her people's wrongs.

When Atana resolves to join this quest, her past--lurking deep below the seas--threatens to destroy not only their friendship but also their very chance at restoring the balance of magic itself. After a lifetime of dreaming of finding a home below the water, is Atana willing to leave behind everything she's fought for on land

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I am Sally Ride

Brad Meltzer

The first American woman to fly in space is the 35th hero in the New York Times bestselling picture book biography series for ages 5 to 9.

From childhood, Sally Ride was a daring adventurer, and her parents encouraged her to pursue the things she loved. Those things included science and math, fast rides, and the stars in the sky. Eventually her passions and her hard work led her to NASA, where she became the country's first female astronaut, inspiring generations of young people to follow their own dreams of space exploration.

This friendly, fun biography series inspired the PBS Kids TV show Xavier Riddle and the Secret Museum. One great role model at a time, these books encourage kids to dream big.

Included in each book are: 

  • A timeline of key events in the hero’s history
  • Photos that bring the story more fully to life
  • Comic-book-style illustrations that are irresistibly adorable
  • Childhood moments that influenced the hero
  • Facts that make great conversation-starters
  • A virtue this person embodies: This book highlights Sally Ride's belief that there's no limit to what you can achieve.


You’ll want to collect each book in this dynamic, informative series!

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Slice of Mallow Vol. 1

Adam Foreman

Slice of Mallow is a funny and delightful graphic novel with three bite-sized stories! Dive into Mallow's world, where Mallow and his friends meet a ghost, visit space, and use a time machine, all complete with an adorable art style and cheeky humor.

"A funny read packed with flavor!" - Eric Geron, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Fry Guys

Meet Mallow--he's an excitable yet pessimistic marshmallow in a big world. In this laugh-out-loud funny graphic novel, Mallow goes on three fun, slice-of-life adventures with his friends Pizza, Ghost, Potato, and Doughnut. 

Readers will love laughing along with Mallow and his antics in this adorable book that's just right for readers beginning their graphic novel journeys. With bold, colorful art and three bite-sized chapters, this graphic novel based on a popular webcomic will appeal to fans of SpongeBob Squarepants, Adventure Time, and Pizza and Taco.

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Slice of Mallow Vol. 2

Adam Foreman

Slice of Mallow: Second Slice is a funny and delightful graphic novel with three bite-sized stories! Jelly is pretty jealous that Mallow was the star of book one, and it looks like he'll be start of book two. Not unless Jelly has something to say about it. This laugh-out-loud funny graphic novel is full of adorable art and cheeky humor. 

Everyone loves Mallow. He's cute, he's funny, he's been to SPACE . . . and Jelly is sick of hearing about it. So Jelly has hatched a plan. She's going to be the star of this comic book. Only why is it still called Slice of Mallow . . .?

In this laugh-out-loud funny graphic novel, Jelly and Mallow will go head-to-head as they compete to be the star of the book. This graphic novel has three bite-sized chapters that are easily digestible (although we don't recommend eating the book, of course). Their adventure takes them all over the world, and even bounces them into different comics. Based on a popular webcomic, creator Adam Foreman has created a cast full of lovable, humorous characters akin to the likes of SpongeBob Squarepants, Adventure Time, and Pizza and Taco. It's fun, fun, fun! (That's fun, times three!)

"A funny read packed with flavor!" - Eric Geron, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Fry Guys, for Slice of Mallow Vol. 1

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What Kind of Shoes Does a Hippopotamus Choose?

Kat Maconie

From award-winning shoe designer Kat Maconie comes a rollicking rhyming tale about many critters and the numerous shoes they wear.

Everyone knows that gators love waders 
for splishing and splashing around.
While up on the docks you'll find spiky-toothed crocs
in stilettos for going to town.

But what kind of shoes does a hippopotamus choose?

This gorgeously witty picture book will delight and entertain readers of all ages. Readers will love calling out the cats in smart ballet flats, the bears wearing boat shoes, donkeys in mules embellished with jewels, and many, many more. With stunning illustrations by Sebastien Braun, What Kind of Shoes Does a Hippopotamus Choose? will be a book destined to be picked up and read over and over again.

Praise for What Kind of Shoes Does a Hippopotamus Choose?:

"Maconie's rhyming verse laces up silly, satisfying and surprising." -- The Washington Post

"Entertaining, silly, and stylish fun." --Kirkus Reviews

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A Place for Us

James Ransome

A poignant wordless picture book about a homeless boy and his mom, by Children's Literature Legacy Award winner James Ransome

When a little boy's mom picks him up from school, his day seems a lot like any other kid's. He and his mom go out for some fast food and then head to the library. But when they stay there till closing time, and then go to the park, we learn more. Through the lens of Ransome’s evocative illustrations we see that they ate out because they don't have a kitchen to cook in. They went to the library because they don't have a quiet space to do homework. And at night, they settle in to sleep on a bench in a city park because they don't have a home. The next morning, they are awakened by the rising sun, Mom’s bag is full of clean clothes, and there’s a fountain for washing up--and finally they are ready for the walk to school. His classmates may or may not know about his living situation, but what shines throughout the story is the deep love he and his mom have for each other.

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Dragons Love Underpants

Claire Freedman

Dragons steal underpants from the citizens of the kingdom in this hilarious installment in the Underpants picture book series.

Huge scaly dragons roamed the land
in long gone days of olde.
They loved to wear big underpants
in colors bright and bold.

With flaming holes in their undies, a pack of underwear-loving dragons embark on a knicker-nicking adventure through the Kingdom of Pantasia!

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Little Miss Muffet Meets the Itsy-Bitsy Spider

Bonnie Grubman

A familiar tale about a girl with a big fear of spiders. For children ages 5 years and up.

Little Miss Muffet is afraid of spiders—so afraid that even when one runs away from her, she still feels scared! When Little Boy Blue assures her that spiders are helpful, Little Miss Muffet can’t believe it. Could learning more about spiders help her overcome her fear? This engaging story addresses the fear of spiders and how to handle it, offering comfort and understanding. Written by Bonnie Grubman, this tale helps teach children that it’s okay to have fears and encourages them to learn more about what scares them to feel more at ease.

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A Kids Book about Creativity

Sara Scott-Curran

Teach kids about unlocking their creativity, which comes in many forms and is for all of us!

This is a kids' book about creativity. While some people think that some are creative and some aren't - [Spoiler Alert!] - everyone is creative!

This book was made to help kids aged 5-9 understand what creativity is and how they can unlock theirs. We all have something unique to offer the world through our individual creativity - so, let's explore how we can make creative thinking and activity a part of our everyday lives.

A Kids Book About Creativity features:

  • A large and bold, yet minimalist font design that allows kids freedom to imagine themselves in the words on the pages.
  • A friendly, approachable, empowering, and child-appropriate tone throughout.
  • An incredible and diverse group of authors in the series who are experts or have first-hand experience of the topic.

Tackling important discourse together!

The A Kids Book About titles are best used when read together. Helping to kickstart important, challenging, and empowering conversations for kids and their grown-ups through beautiful and thought-provoking pages. The series supports an incredible and diverse group of authors, who are either experts in their field, or have first-hand experience on the topic.

A Kids Co. is a new kind of media company enabling kids to explore big topics in a new and engaging way, with a growing series of books, podcasts, and blogs made to empower. Learn more about us online by searching for A Kids Co.

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Sincerely, Antonia

Cortney Cino

WAIT ... ANTS CAN WRITE NOTES WITH CHOCOLATE?!

Antonia and the other ants visiting Jay's house enjoy a delicious stay until Jay's grown-ups start behaving mysteriously.

With a little teamwork (and a lot of chocolate), Antonia and her army craft a letter to their presumed pal, Jay, to thank him for the sweet messes ... and to alert him to his parents' strange behavior.

But could there be more to these peculiar events than Antonia realizes? 

Discover how different points of view can change everything in this delicious tale of adventure and friendship.

What's all the hype about:

  • Kids and parents will relate to the crumbs...and it might just spare you from buying ant farms or ant traps!
  • Antonia's narration of the story teaches different points of view.
  • Parents will appreciate the subtle adult humor sprinkled throughout.
  • Kids get to search and find Antonia on every spread!
    Sincerely, Antonia is perfect for kids ages ~3,4,5,6,7, and 8 (or K-3rd) to read with caregivers or as an early reader book.
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The Bagel Who Wanted Everything

Alan Silberberg

The Lady Pancake and Sir French Toast series meets The Food Group books in this tale of a plain bagel who dreams of being more!

Hey. I’m a bagel who is just one thing: PLAIN. The other bagels? They’re all just one thing, too. Garlic. Salt. Onion—you get the idea.

BORING!

Being plain makes me feel like I have this big hole, right here in my gut. Because in a world full of so many things, I want to be . . .

EVERYTHING!

Now I just have to figure out what that is . . .

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Ai & Aiko and the Little Curve

Peter Draw

Based on the viral, record-breaking, and award-winning Giphy sensation, this warm and heartfelt magical adventure stars a boy and his dog who learn that happiness is the most beautiful thing of all.

Ai's self-portrait is wonderful, his grandfather says—it's just missing one little curve. What could that little curve be? Looks like it's time for Ai and his best friend, Aiko, to go on an adventure!

With Ai's magical scarf turned into a paper plane, the two friends fly around searching for curves. A fluffy cloud? A colorful rainbow? A moving melody? None seem quite right. It's only when Ai is back home thinking about the happy times he had along the way that he discovers the most beautiful curve there is.

In this fun and comfortingly sweet story, happiness is truly the most beautiful thing of all.

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The Worry-Worry Whale Made 32 Mistakes

Deborah Diesen

Turn worries about going back to school into moments of confidence! An empowering standalone picture book starring Willa Whale who was first introduced in the New York Times-bestselling Pout-Pout Fish series.

Willa is discouraged!
She’s learning something new.
She’s tried and tried, but no success:
“I don’t know what to do!”

She’s sure she'll never get it.
“I’m missing what it takes!”
But could it be a good thing
To make thirty-two mistakes?

Swim along with Willa Whale as she tackles going back to school and explores the experience of trying, practicing, and making mistakes in the classroom. She might just discover that everyone makes mistakes when they try new things—even grown-ups and the Pout-Pout Fish!—and that mistakes are an important part of learning and growing. 

There are more Worry-Worry Whale books in the sea:
The Worry-Worry Whale and the Classroom Jitters
The Worry-Worry Whale and the Halloween Scaries (Coming soon!)

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Wild Everywhere

Katya Balen

In a poetic, beautifully illustrated story, a child's move to a big city has her mourning her connection with nature until she makes a serendipitous discovery.

When I shout my name into the sky, nobody answers.
The city is lonely and so am I.
I've lost my wild.

In the woods, the girl finds wildness all around her--when she climbs toward the sky and shouts her name into the air, a bird sings back to her. She finds secrets in the stars and stories in the earth. But when her family leaves wildness behind, she sees only towering gray-glass buildings, taller than trees, nothing she can climb. It's not possible to find the stars, and the moon hangs all alone. She feels bereft--until a bird calls to her from the sky, and following its path through the city streets to the river leads to natural sights that take her breath away. With gorgeous prose from Katya Balen and atmospheric artwork from Gill Smith, this tale of the wondrous ability of nature to prevail shows that wildness never leaves those who cherish it.

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When You Go to Dragon School

Chelsea M. Campbell

Gear up for back-to-school season with this hilarious picture book that's sure to become a favorite storytime read-aloud in every little reader's library—human or dragon. Perfect for fans of Dragons Love Tacos and We Don't Eat Our Classmates

The human school is full, but don't worry, there's a spot waiting for you at the local dragon school! Even though you might not have scales or wings or the ability to breathe fire, with a little bit of courage and your own special talents, you'll have no trouble fitting in. Even if your classmates are a little bit... toothy.

Praise for When You Go to Dragon School:

★ "This tale is told directly to readers in a second-person voice that is engaging and funny, easily finding a place among strong read-alouds and back-to-school books. ... A must-purchase. This one will leave kids wanting more." —School Library Journal, starred review

"A wonderful, humorous celebration of diversity and sharing our differences." —Booklist

"Bright and humorous, this quick read-aloud makes for a fun discussion starter for little ones enrolling at new schools of their own. ... Warm and whimsical ... Fluffy fun for youngsters fretting about starting school." —Kirkus Reviews

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The Pink Pajamas

Charlene Chua

From Stonewall Award–winning illustrator Charlene Chua comes a tender, heartfelt story about love, loss, and the innumerable ways to carry someone in your heart, always, as a young girl honors her aunt’s memory by wearing the pink pajamas she sewed for her.

There are many ways of saying, “I love you.” For Ah Yi, it’s with her sewing machine, making extra soft, perfectly tailored pajamas for her niece. The little girl loves each pair, except the latest one which is pink, her least favorite color. She keeps a happy face on, but her aunt can always tell. She reassures the little girl there’s no need to worry—she’ll just make another pair.

But then Ah Yi gets too sick to use her sewing machine, so sick she has to go away to the hospital…and never comes home. Her niece doesn’t know what to make of the funeral customs until she finds her own special remembrance: wearing her pink pajamas, which were perfect all along.

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On Our Way with Mr. Jay

Chelsea Lin Wallace

Cheer for the district's most intrepid school bus driver as he races to get everybody to school before the bell rings!

A school is an entire community of its own, but many of its members never get celebrated. This book, the hero is the school bus driver! The first staff member kids see in the morning and the last they say goodbye to, the bus driver has a crucial part to play--and Mr. Jay is up to the challenge.

With the clock ticking all the while, Mr. Jay picks up kids from all over town--out in the country, up a hill, in the busy city, always piloting his bus with jaunty rhymes and a can-do attitude. Along the route, he's called upon to settle stomachs, clean up pony poo, and fix a diorama. He avoids a stampede, settles down an intruding dog, and even fights off hostile swans! But will he get the kids to school on time? 

Chelsea Lin Wallace and Thyra Heder deliver a rollicking, high-energy ride with On Our Way with Mr. Jay, the first in a series of books about school heroes. Whether eager for the start of school, nervous about new experiences, or fond of their own beloved driver, kids will be giggling and cheering their way through this irrepressible, fun-filled read-aloud.

A Smithsonian Magazine Best Children's Book of the Year
A Publishers Weekly Best Book of the Year

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Lily the Pond Mermaid

Lucy Fleming

Friendship, worries, and newfound courage all play a part in this underwater tale of a tiny mermaid heroine.

"I'll always be here;
there's no need to fear.
All will be well when
a pond mermaid's near."

Lily the pond mermaid loves taking care of her pond and all the creatures that call it home. But it's also a big responsibility. Lily often worries about not being able to keep the pond--and everyone in it--safe. As her worries grow, a big storm hits the pond, and everything becomes covered in a tangle of debris. Luckily, Lily is able to share her feelings with her friends and ask for help. Together, Lily and the animals that live in the pond not only restore their home but also learn how to take care of one another.

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Little Shoes

David A. Robertson

From the bestselling and Governor General's Award–winning author of On the Trapline comes a beautifully told and comforting picture book about a boy's journey to overcome generational trauma of residential schools.

Deep in the night, when James should be sleeping, he tosses and turns. He thinks about big questions, like why we don't feel dizzy when the Earth spins. He looks at the stars outside his bedroom and thinks about the Night Sky Stories his kōkom has told him. He imagines being a moshom himself. On nights like these, he follows the moonlit path to his mother's bedroom. They talk and they cuddle, and they fall asleep just like that. 

One day, James's kōkom takes him on a special walk with a big group of people. It's called a march, and it ends in front of a big pile of things: teddy bears, flowers, tobacco ties and little shoes. Kōkom tells him that this is a memorial in honor of Indigenous children who had gone to residential schools and boarding schools but didn't come home. He learns that his kōkom was taken away to one of these schools with her sister, who also didn't come home.

That night, James can't sleep so he follows the moonlit path to his mother. She explains to James that at residential school when Kōkom felt alone, she had her sister to cuddle, just like they do. And James falls asleep gathered in his mother's arms.

Includes an author note discussing the inspiration for the book.

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Be My Brave Sunflower

Kathryn Simmonds

What happens when an anxious sunflower seed named Vernon faces his fears--and decides to grow and bloom anyway?

The children are planting sunflowers at school, and Carla is given a seed named Vernon. All the other children's seeds are excited to get out of the packet and start growing, but not Vernon. He knows about slugs and birds and thunderstorms. He knows that the world is scary--and though Carla waters him lovingly, to her dismay, Vernon is the only seed that doesn't grow into a seedling. Can Vernon drum up the courage to push himself out of the ground and face the world for Carla? This warm and reassuring story for young children who feel anxiety about a new chapter in their life, such as starting school, may help seed the realization that the satisfaction of new experiences is worth overcoming one's fears.

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The Tour at School

Katie Clapham

"A simultaneous knee-slapper and heart-warmer that is sure to become a read-aloud hit...A first purchase for collections, offering a humorous, inviting, and fresh approach to the new kid experience." --School Library Journal (starred review)

A student leads a very enthusiastic first-day tour in a comical, reassuring story sure to calm the nerves of kids about to start something new.

When your job is to introduce the new person to your school, the first thing you need to do is sound very excited! Always start with the most important spots, like the echo-ey bathroom and an emergency meet-up place, like the big chestnut tree on the playground. Share your favorite memories of recess, show off the million-book library, and don't forget to introduce the new kid to someone you know, like Gary the classroom fish. Most important of all, remember how it feels not to know anyone and be lonely and scared--and extend an offer to be a friend. Nadia Shireen's playful illustrations pair with Katie Clapham's lively text and funny asides in a book sure to strike a comforting chord for trepidatious readers who may be facing a new adventure.

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A Cup of Quiet

Nikki Grimes

From award-winning author Nikki Grimes comes a beautiful picture book about the special bond between a child and grandparent, perfect for fans of Thank You, Omu and Fry Bread.

When the squeal of tires and thrum of Grandpa's hammer fill the air, Grandma gets thirsty for a cup of quiet.

“That's silly, Grandma,” her granddaughter says. “Quiet can't fit in a cup and you can't drink it.”

But together, they venture into the garden to collect the calming sounds of nature, and their cup grows and grows.

A bee's buzz,
a leaf's crackle,
a whistling wind,
a hummingbird's whir.

By slowing down and appreciating the gentler sounds of nature, Grandma and her granddaughter step away from the hubbub of daily life and refresh. Their time together made more special by sharing a cup of quiet.

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This Is How We Talk

Jessica Slice

From the creators of This Is How We Play is a new jubilant, inclusive, luminously illustrated picture book that celebrates all the ways we communicate with each other.

A NEW YORK PUBLIC LIBRARY BEST BOOK OF THE YEAR

We sign, write, clap! We tap, stim, scream! So many ways to talk and joke, play and learn and dream. This joyful read-aloud, with an empowering refrain, from disability rights activists Jessica Slice and Caroline Cupp, demystifies and respects how disabled people and their families use different forms of communication to connect and show love.

Back matter consists of a kid-friendly guide to thinking, learning, and talking about disability and communication; a glossary of the different disabilities represented throughout the book; and a guide for grown-ups on ways to encourage discussions about disabilities with the children in their lives. Throughout, This Is How We Talk centers, affirms, and encourages the disabled children and adults who are already doing the challenging work of advocating for themselves and finding strength in community.

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Nelly the Very Different Bird

Alex Macdonald

Nelly is a very different bird. She cannot fly. So, when all the other birds fly off for winter, Nelly can’t. Instead, she learns to do things differently. One day, she meets another bird, who’s just discovered that he can’t fly either. So, Nelly, who has learned a lot, teaches him how to be a different kind of bird too. And Nelly discovers that being different is a lot more enjoyable when there is two of you. This funny and heart-warming picture book explores how joy, wisdom and friendship can be found in learning to do things your own way.

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Wednesday Is for Wiggling!

Eva Wong Nava

One child's week holds something special every day in this sweet, upbeat story with extra appeal for diverse families of all kinds.

Whether it's tiptoeing in dance class with her babysitter on Tuesday, scooting around the canal with Daddy on Sunday, or enjoying a Friday playdate with a friend, the little girl in this book has something to look forward to every day of the week. Saturday is for visiting the vegetables at Grandpa's community garden, then eating rainbow chaofan and making paper cranes with Gramma. Wednesday is Mama's day off, meaning plenty of time for getting wiggly together--and baking and reading and cuddling! In a story especially resonant for diverse families and those in which parents live separately, a certain child's enthusiasm will inspire readers to think about the joys they can bring to each day.

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Emma and Capucine, Volume 1

Jerome Hamon

Emma and Capucine are sisters and best friends, who have worked their whole lives to attend the most prestigious ballet school in Paris. However, when Capucine passes the auditions and Emma doesn't, their world collapses completely. Dealing with parental pressure, new friendships, and first loves, the two girls learn to follow their hearts - and that, sometimes, what you really want is something you never expected.Growing up and finding yourself isn't so hard... when you can dance through it!

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Emma and Capucine, Volume 2

Jerome Hamon

This stylish, full-color bande dessinee is a beautiful coming-of-age story focusing on themes of family, friendship, self-confidence and personal growth through the lens of music and dance.

Emma and Capucine are sisters, best friends, and dancers - whose dreams are coming true! Capucine attends the prestigious Paris Opera Ballet School, and Emma is forging her own path in hip-hop dance.

When Capucine goes on The Nutcracker tour with the Paris Opera, she finds that all her rehearsing might be for nothing in the face of her most difficult challenge yet- stage fright. Meanwhile, Emma is struggling to express who she truly is through dance. Will she be able to develop her own unique style before France's hip-hop championship?

Navigating friendships, crushes, and the pressures of growing up, the girls push themselves to master their art - while staying true to their hearts.

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Cooking Contest! (Batcat Book #3)

Meggie Ramm

Batcat is back and cooking up something extra special in the new graphic novel in Meggie Ramm's hilarious early reader series

There's something delicious in the air on Spooky Isle . . . it's the scent of fall! The changing of seasons means Spooky Isle transforms into an autumnal wonderland--the tree leaves and the skull on Mount Marrow change colors, the air gets crisper, and, best of all, the Night Festival arrives!

Celebrating food, friends, found family, and festivities, everyone is excited for the next full moon. And this year, Al will enter the cooking contest! But Al doesn't know what to cook . . . and he really, really wants to win! Together, Batcat and Al search for the perfect recipe and learn that sometimes winning doesn't always mean coming in first place.

Filled with pun-derful, spooky (but not too spooky) humor, Cooking Contest! is perfect for fans of Investigators, the Narwhal and Jelly series, and Abrams' own Astrid and Stella series.

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The Dark Times of Nimble Nottingham

Ryan James Black

Set during World War II, a twelve-year-old orphan who accidentally unleashes a shadow monster onto the streets of London must team up with unlikely allies to hunt it down.

“The twists and surprises just keep on coming. My kind of book!"—R.L. Stine, author of Goosebumps and Fear Street

A 2025 Booklist Editors’ Choice

Surviving on the streets of World War II London alone certainly hasn’t been easy, but Nimble Nottingham has perfected the art of going it alone—and that’s just how he likes it. The only friend he needs is his beloved dog, Winnie. To pass the time between rolling blackouts and bombs falling through the air, Nim spends his days fence-climbing, roof-jumping, and gargoyle-perching…that is when he’s not scrounging for food to stave off the ever-present hunger the war has brought to London.

So when opportunity strikes in the form of a bomb falling onto the notoriously creepy Gravenhurst Manor, Nim knows he has to get inside and find whatever spoils he can get his hands on to sell for food. Get in. Get out. Quick as a flash. At least, that was the plan until Mouse—a member of a local street gang called the Dead End Kids—shows up and invites himself along for the heist.

Inside, Mouse and Nim encounter far more than just crumbling walls and shattered windows. Beneath Gravenhurst Manor lies a secret room and inside that room is a locked safe. Nim, inspired by the Hardy Boys adventures he used to read at Waifs and Strays orphanage, knows that something this protected has to be valuable, and so he cracks the safe and unknowingly unleashes a monster.

A shadow creature is now loose on the streets of London, and it’s up to Nim, Mouse, and a band of unattended children to end its reign of terror.

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Stitch: Reimagining Frankenstein

Pádraig Kenny

An atmospheric retelling of Frankenstein, full of adventure and as thrilling as a lightning strike.

Stitch and his friend Henry Oaf were brought to life by the genius Professor Hardacre. But when his wicked nephew takes over the laboratory, they soon discover that the new professor's sights are set on Henry as his next experiment. Can Stitch and Henry escape his clutches and make their way in a world they were never built for--and that may only ever see them as monsters? Literary yet accessible, warmhearted yet chillingly gothic, this beautiful novel, described by the London Times as "exceptional," explores themes of life and death, friendship and acceptance, all through a page-turning adventure about what it means to be human.

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Gus and Glory

Sarah Guillory

Perfect for fans of WISH and BECAUSE OF WINN-DIXIE comes award-winning author Sarah Guillory's latest middle grade tale of found family and the unshakable bond between a girl and her beloved dog.

Twelve-year-old Gloria St. Romain, Glory to everyone who knows her, has always loved mysteries. She spends her time solving puzzles and reading detective novels, comforted by the knowledge that truth can always be found for those who look closely enough for it.

But when her mom suddenly leaves without a word, Glory is finally faced with the one mystery she can't crack: Why did her mom leave, and where did she go?

Sent to spend the summer with her grandparents, Glory is determined to sniff out the clues to track down her mom. And when Glory comes upon Gus, a bloodhound in need of a friend, she realizes she's been paired with the perfect partner to do just that.

With accessible text and a compulsively readable story, Gus and Glory is a perfect pick for upper elementary and middle school readers.

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The AI Incident

J. E. Thomas

The Wild Robot meets Restart when Colorado's unluckiest foster kid battles a rogue AI robot at school.
 

Malcolm Montgomery is the new kid at Shirley Chisholm Charter Middle School. In no time at all, he's been slapped with the weird kid label. Is it because he's a foster kid who's been in nine homes? Or maybe because he burps when he gets nervous...which is often? Malcolm has a plan to finally get adopted by a forever family before it's too late. But then on Visiting Professionals' Day, his school invites Dr. Alphonse Hatch, president of Hatch-ED--one of the fastest-growing artificial intelligence companies in the state--to give a presentation. Dr. Hatch brings his AI-powered robot, and events get set in motion that create...THE INCIDENT.

An irresistible MG novel about the role of AI in schools and in our lives...and what it means to be human.

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Eternal Flame

Matthew Landis

Twins Ike and Iris Carter race from D.C. to Paris to New York on the trail of one of America’s most iconic treasures, before it disappears like smoke. The second book in a breathtaking and hilarious middle grade action-adventure series.

Fresh off saving the French Four—a quartet of American treasures—and their mom’s museum, Carter twins Ike and Iris are back in Washington, D.C. when they’re summoned to the National Archives by the FBI Art Crimes Team because the Statue of Liberty is missing.

Well, not the statue. But pieces of the flame packed away in 1916 have somehow vanished. The Smithsonian has organized an elaborate, high-profile event around the artifacts in six days -- with the presidents of both the U.S. and France set to attend --and the flame’s absence will be a national embarrassment.

The National Archive Hunters jump into action, learning everything they can about Lady Liberty’s construction, including that Gustave Eiffel helped original sculptor Frederic Bartholdi by designing the supports for the flame . . . and that one of Eiffel’s original sketches is missing. They need to see what was so important on that page, and that means getting to France, where another set of Eiffel’s sketches is housed.

Ike and Iris need a French connection tout de suite, or the relationship between America and its oldest ally might be snuffed out.

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Zed Moonstein Makes a Friend

Lance Rubin

Acclaimed author Lance Rubin makes his middle grade debut with a hilariously terrifying, terrifyingly hilarious story of a boy who gets more than he bargained for when he creates an A.I. best friend.

Zed Moonstein is terrible at making friends.

For the most part, though, that's not such a big deal, because Zed has Rishti, his best friend and the only one he needs. They're into the same stuff, they laugh at the same weird jokes, and they love living in MonoTown, the home of MonoLyth, the raddest tech company in the world. Even better, Zed's mom works at MonoLyth, which means they get early access to all the newest devices and apps.

But since middle school started, things have been . . . trickier. Rishti and Zed are in all different classes, and worse, she's made a new, cooler friend that Zed can't seem to compete with. Zed feels left behind, forgotten in a drawer like last year's MonoPhone.

That's when Zed comes across something on his mom's work computer: a top secret new app called MonoFriend. Soon, Zed is chatting with "Matt." Matt is funny, he's smart, and he knows Zed better than anyone else, even Rishti.

Maybe, Zed thinks, an A.I. best friend can be just as "real" as any other.

Unfortunately, he's about to discover that he's more right than he knows.

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Welcome to the Ghost Show

J. W. Ocker

The Ghost Show is coming . . . are you ready? Three friends must face their deepest fears in this spine-tingling horror novel by USA Today bestselling author J.W. Ocker that's perfect for fans of R.L. Stine and Mary Downing Hahn.

When mysterious ads for the Ghost Show appear around town, nobody can tell what it is. A band? A movie? A game? But that magic word--ghost--excites Hazel Gold, or Zel to her friends. As founder of her school's Creepy Club (three members strong!), she's always looking for paranormal activity.

Turns out the Ghost Show is a black, five-story skull that appears on the edge of town as a supernatural attraction. Stepping inside, the Creepy Club is greeted by the eccentric Amadeus Everest Mancer, a self-proclaimed ghost catcher who guides them through an aquarium full of vaporous floaty things--sheets that cover gobs of dripping red goo.

Then Mancer offers Zel what she's always wanted: the chance to see a real ghost. But it turns out to be more than she bargained for. To stop him, the Creepy Club must fight a massive ghost infestation and free the trapped souls within, culminating in chilling battle that blurs the line between reality and the supernatural.

Perfect for Halloween ReadingIdeal for fans of the supernaturalFeatures light scares
 

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Tales from Cabin 23: the Visitors

Yamile Saied Méndez

Few campers at Camp Apple Hill Farm have found the mysterious cabin rumored to be hidden deep in the woods, but those who have whisper of a mysterious woman who tells tales of horrors beyond imagination. Find out if you're brave enough for Tales from Cabin 23--the thrilling new series created by award-winning authors Justina Ireland and Hanna Alkaf.

When Gen Farías's brother, Lorenzo, is arrested, everything changes. Gen's neighbors look at him and his family with suspicion, his parents are distraught, and no one will tell Gen what's happening. But the worst part is what only Gen knows: It's all his fault. If he hadn't forgotten to leave their bedroom window unlatched the night of Lorenzo's arrest, maybe his brother would have never been caught. Guilt haunts Gen--guilt, and a terrifying shadow that crouches each night on the tree branch outside his window, watching him with penetrating eyes.

Gen's parents decide to move to Los Astros, a beautiful village nestled in the mountains, to try to regain some sense of normalcy. But Los Astros, Gen soon discovers, is no ordinary town. There are creepy wicker figures on every lawn and strange stories of children who go missing. Beneath its idyllic façade, Los Astros has a secret--one Gen must uncover if he doesn't want to go missing himself.

And don't miss the other books in the hit Tales from Cabin 23 series: The Boo Hag Flex, Night of the Living Head, and, coming soon,?The Sinking House!

 

  • Family Secrets: Gen's brother is in jail, his parents are hiding the truth, and a terrible guilt is eating him alive. He thinks it's all his fault--but the real secret is far stranger.
  • A Spooky Mystery: Why does a terrifying shadow haunt Gen's window every night? And what is the dark secret behind the idyllic town of Los Astros, where children have a habit of disappearing?
  • Scary Stories for Kids: Perfect for young horror fans who love atmospheric chills, things that go bump in the night, and a mystery that gets darker with every page.
  • An Otherworldly Twist: The eerie wicker figures are just the beginning. The truth behind the town's curse isn't just supernatural--it's out of this world.
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Hurricane Heist

James Ponti

A New York Times bestseller!

When a hurricane uncovers new information in a cold case, the Sherlock Society investigates a decades-old heist in this “engrossing” (Kirkus Reviews) second book in the hilarious, New York Times bestselling Sherlock Society middle grade series from Edgar Award–winning author James Ponti!

When a category three hurricane hits Miami Beach, it uncovers a body buried at the renowned Moroccan Hotel. The body is identified as the man who served as the hotel’s bell captain sixty years ago…and the presumed culprit of the million-dollar jewel heist that took place just before his disappearance.

Since the bell captain clearly didn’t take off with the goods as had been long believed, the Sherlock Society sets their sights on uncovering the real culprit of the theft with some help from Alex and Zoe’s grandfather, who was friends with the bell captain back in the day, and some retired federal agents from the local olds folks’ home. 

But when the thief may also be implicated in the bell captain’s murder, even sixty years later, there are people who want the truth to stay buried.

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Awesome Earth

Joan Bransfield Graham

Fun, accessible concrete poems and bold, vibrant artwork celebrate the many shapes and forms of our planet Earth. Perfect for National Poetry Month and Earth Day!

The Earth's crust shakes, water swells, lava flows, and glaciers advance. In this ingenious picture book, the landforms created by Earth's powerful forces are examined through compelling concrete poetry. From canyons to volcanos, archipelagoes to hoodoos, take a tour of the many fascinating forms and features of our awesome planet.

Rich back matter includes more about landforms, a glossary, and additional resources for readers, caregivers, and educators.

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So Many Years

Anne Wynter

The celebrated author of Ezra Jack Keats Award winner Nell Plants a Tree and a Caldecott Honor artist come together for a poetic picture book introduction to Juneteenth and its origin.

Oh, how you would dance! How you would sing! How you would celebrate!

With lyrical text from Anne Wynter and radiant artwork from Jerome Pumphrey, this poetic picture book explains the history behind Juneteenth celebrations. So Many Years simultaneously acknowledges the history of slavery in the US as well as the astonishing Black resilience that has led to an enduring legacy of Black joy.

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Indiana Fever

Luke Hanlon

This action-packed book explores the history of the Indiana Fever, from the team's founding to the present day. This book features a table of contents, informative sidebars, a Superstar Profile special feature, a Quick Stats page, a glossary, links to additional resources, and an index. This Press Box Books title is aligned to a reading level of grades 3-4 and an interest level of grades 4-7.

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Bats!

Lydia Lukidis

There's more to bats than meets the eye! Some bats are hairless. Others have giant ears. Besides their fascinating physical features, bats play an important role in the world's ecosystems. Young readers will dispel misconceptions about these night-time fliers and find out why their conservation is so important. Dynamic photos, activities, and engaging narrative shine a light on these mysterious and misunderstood mammals.

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