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Short list this title for middle grade library collections and recommend to readers, reluctant or not, with an interest in pirates, history, bodies of water, or atypical family structures.
A real humdinger of a story told by master storyteller; this title will appeal to tweens seeking high-stakes, high-fun realistic fiction.
PREMIUM
Seabird
A first purchase for all libraries wishing to inspire readers to make their own path rather than follow the trail.
Birdsall is so adept at magical realism that after finishing this book, readers will likely keep an eye out for fairylike creatures the next time they visit a museum or library. An essential purchase for all middle grade collections.
PREMIUM
Steel & Spellfire
With a Regency-style setting, likable protagonists, romance, plot twists, and complex worldbuilding, this magical mystery story will appeal to readers who enjoy their historical romance laced with strong fantasy elements.
PREMIUM
Pretty Girl County
A funny, emotional glimpse into the unique Black social system of Prince George’s County; readers will be rooting for Sommer and Reya to achieve their dreams.
PREMIUM
Rosa by Any Other Name
A powerful coming-of-age story about passing, resistance, and self-discovery. Recommended for YA collections.
PREMIUM
Codebreaker
This book will appeal to tween and teen readers seeking an engrossing, adrenaline-packed mystery. Recommended for fans of Jennifer Lynn Barnes, Holly Jackson, and Kayvion Lewis.
PREMIUM
This Book Might Be About Zinnia
Full of heart, this book is recommended for libraries where Elizabeth Acevedo’s Clap When You Land is popular.
PREMIUM
Water in Her Veins
A potential town-wide conspiracy and links beyond the veil combine for a chilling mystery sure to keep readers eager to unearth the truth.
PREMIUM
Soul of Shadow
The first in a new YA romantasy series, this novel is perfect for readers of Holly Black, Lauren Roberts, and Stephanie Garber and mythology lovers who enjoy Rick Riordan and Joanne Harris.
PREMIUM
A Spell to Wake the Dead
Fantasy fans may want more explanation to the magic as it’s glossed over; the true reward in this novel is the mystery. Overall, this is a fun, spooky read that will keep readers hooked until the end.
PREMIUM
Soulmatch
A quick standalone read for teen fans of the “enemies to lovers” trope with some mystery and thriller set against the backdrop of dystopian science fiction.
Great for fans of F.T. Lukens and those who enjoy cozy fantasy and standalones.
PREMIUM
Another
A robust horror title that deftly utilizes the uncanny valley while drawing on real-life recent events. Highly recommended for youth horror shelves.
PREMIUM
Mooncussers
A charming and original sequel that will take readers on a magical adventure in an alternate 19th century. Recommended for dark fantasy lovers and fans of the first installment.
PREMIUM
The Forest of a Thousand Eyes
Readers who love fantasy and adventure will be drawn to Feather and the dangers of a menacing and destructive Forest and crave more details about the communities Feather encounters.
PREMIUM
A Beautiful and Terrible Murder
Recommended; hand this book to strong readers who like a complex mystery entwined with Victorian culture set in the center of the Sherlock Holmes universe.
A comfort read for anyone who is drawn to romances set in the Regency and Victorian eras.
PREMIUM
Sky on Fire
Recommended for libraries with fans of Aetherbound or Johnston’s “Star Wars” novels, but its uneven pacing and lack of background context limits its wider appeal.
In these stories, tween and teen protagonists with a range of abilities face real and fantastical challenges, from time loops to dust storms to going viral. Share these titles with readers in time for Disability Pride Month in July, and all throughout the year.
The winners of the 2025 Boston Globe-Horn Book Awards are I Know How to Draw an Owl by Hilary Horder Hippely, illus. by Matt James; Everything We Never Had by Randy Ribay; and Death in the Jungle: Murder, Betrayal, and the Lost Dream of Jonestown by Candace Fleming.
In this Q&A series, SLJ poses five questions and a request for a book recommendation to a debut YA author. Leon Egan shares about Lover Birds in this latest installment.
A great, immersive read that will leave readers anxious to see what happens next.
A fun choice for Spanish-language middle grade shelves, perfect for summertime reading.
PREMIUM
¡Hola, Tobi!
This joy-filled, Spanish-language picture book is a strong addition to collections for children.
For better or worse, this depiction simplifies a complex issue and will be of value as an addition to collections.
PREMIUM
The Very Fine Clock
A text-heavy but airy story for the patient child or the adult enthusiast and a must for the Gorey shelves; not essential except as a quite charming eccentricity.
An emotional take on a ghost story, with heartwarming illustrations and an ending to bring a tear to the eye.
PREMIUM
Finding Forgiveness
A tender, beautifully crafted story about conflict, emotional insight, and Jewish holiday traditions. Highly recommended for family reading, classroom discussions, and all library collections.
A delightful picture book of Hanukkah poems that showcases Judaism and Hanukkah in an authentic way; a great addition for those who are looking to build up their holiday collections.
Recommended as a fresh addition to public and school libraries to introduce the concept of a bruja. The story is lively and is likely to capture the interest of children and adults.
PREMIUM
Rabbit Rabbit
While there will be readers who identify with Bee and Alice’s struggles, some of the topics addressed may be more mature than the intended tween audience.
PREMIUM
Home, Home
Perfect for libraries wishing to add a beautiful cross-cultural story to their collection, and for every child who has ever felt different.
PREMIUM
Dreaming of a Quinceañera
An excellent story about siblings and quinceañeras that entertains while providing a good description of the traditions and ceremonies that make up a quinceañera.
PREMIUM
12 Little Elves Save Christmas
A perfect way to introduce children to diverse Christmas traditions and cultures.
PREMIUM
Owl’s Fall Feast Fiasco
A warm title for young readers about honest and effective communication, friendship, and the understanding that differences are worth celebrating.
This is a wonderful addition to any library and would be well suited for children of all ages.
PREMIUM
Illuminary
This fantastical novel of misfits on a Quest literally and figuratively will entice readers in middle school and beyond. The cliff-hanger ending will have readers anticipating the sequel.
PREMIUM
Of Earthly Delights
This gothic romance, while occasionally repetitive, offers an atmospheric and emotionally charged narrative. Mature readers may particularly appreciate the sharp, eerie imagery woven throughout.
PREMIUM
Kai Po Che: Mini’s Perfect Kite
This strong choice can be used across multiple grades as a read-aloud or as part of a math lesson involving kites and competition.
In these books that take place in part during the first semester of college, characters learn more about themselves during this time of transition—and maybe fall in love along the way.
A beautiful and reflective read, perfect for celebrating Día de Muertos or simply savoring life’s precious moments. Purchase to enrich holiday collections.
A warm and empowering story about finding one’s voice while celebrating the love of family. Highly recommended.
This read will charm trick-or-treaters and caregivers, and is a solid addition to holiday collections.
PREMIUM
Peppa Pig and the Wedding Day
A heartwarming story about love, friendship, and the joy of celebrating special moments.
A good resource to learn more about Día de Muertos, recommended for all collections.
PREMIUM
Bob the Vampire Snail
Slightly confusing at times, this unlikely vampire tale is excellent Halloween fun.
An informative read that introduces young readers to the richness of Jewish traditions and celebrations.
An affirming, sweet board book for families who celebrate Chuseok.
A must-buy. Young readers love exploring their independence, and this delightful story might just inspire a few more to embrace their unique selves
PREMIUM
Silly Witch
Fun art, pretty good Halloween jokes, and a straightforward premise. A fine first joke book for youngsters who love the spooky season.
PREMIUM
Not-So-Bad Guys Vampire!
A fine addition to collections, for those who don’t mind their vampires watered-down.
A beautifully illustrated, tenderly told story for fall reading or any unit on empathy and inference. Highly recommended.
PREMIUM
Pumpkin Dad
This funny and endearing story is a delightful read, perfect for eager and mischievous children who might think twice about tricking their own parents during the holiday season.
PREMIUM
Mustafa’s Mithai
This is recommended, especially for collections focused on global food traditions.
PREMIUM
Can You Find the Black Cat?
A playful Halloween book offering a sensory treat that will do well in board book collections.
PREMIUM
Chicka Chicka Tricka Treat
A must-have for little ghouls and goblins who love letters and laughs. Buy it to give holiday collections a boost.
Informative and colorful, this picture book provides a thorough and detailed explanation of Día de los Muertos for readers of all ages.
This book is recommended for all collections.
PREMIUM
No More Mr. Mice Guy
A rollicking read-aloud for kids who enjoy Creepy Carrots! and other picture books that give readers the shivers while making them laugh out loud.
A great addition to holiday and board book collections that will be the star at any storytime.
Sweet holiday fun, perfect for the Halloween season.
PREMIUM
Magic Flashlight: Ghost Hunt
A cheery Halloween read and activity that will make toddlers and preschoolers squeal with delight again and again.
PREMIUM
Squash & Pumpkin: #SquashGoals
This fall-themed story of friendship is bursting with puns and adorable, big-eyed vegetables.
PREMIUM
Cat’s First Halloween
Not objectionable and also not additive, this book is easy for young readers to look at and quick to read.
A book to celebrate Halloween, while encouraging readers to consider whether they can stay true to their interests rather than simply following expectations.
PREMIUM
Let’s Get Spooky
Highly detailed spooky scenes will hold readers’ attentions and encourage them to pore over the details.
A good addition for libraries seeking to enhance their young children’s Halloween collections.
Fun and clever, this book is a unique addition to library collections for preschool readers and is an enjoyable story to read aloud as Halloween approaches.
PREMIUM
A Rakhi for Rakesh
A beautiful and culturally significant book that highlights the importance of family, forgiveness, and tradition.
A fun tale with appeal across many age groups, and especially for lovers of sea animals.
PREMIUM
Little Boo
An exhilarating seasonal pick that will appeal to little ghouls and their occasionally frustrated older siblings.
PREMIUM
Anyada Buena, Shanah Tovah
Along with Aroeste’s previous board books, Buen Shabat, Shabbat Shalom, and Mazal Bueno!, this newest offering is a wonderful way to highlight the diversity of the Jewish community.
PREMIUM
The Invisible Parade
A touching and visually stunning picture book that honors the depth of loss while celebrating the enduring power of family, tradition, and remembrance.
PREMIUM
The Protégée
A lively, if surface level, romp for teens who enjoy high drama against the barest whisper of historical settings.
PREMIUM
Amelia, If Only
A charmer of a book, this should be in teen libraries, especially ones that could use more queer romances.
PREMIUM
Embrace the Serpent
Newcomers to YA fantasy may find this one enjoyable, but for those well-versed in the genre, it doesn’t offer anything fresh.
PREMIUM
Under the Neon Lights
With the vivid verse, realistic characters, and the soul that comes from this book, it is recommended for all libraries, especially for those where novels in verse are popular.
PREMIUM
Bad Creek
This would be a great choice for readers who like the works of Mary Downing Hahn and the TV series Supernatural.
An original and entertaining adaptation with heart. Teens who are looking for realism and humor in their queer romance will be hooked.
PREMIUM
Solo Stan
The story suffers from contrivances and poor pacing, but some readers will forgive imperfections in return for a romance between underrepresented characters.
PREMIUM
The Uncertainty Principle
A wonderful addition to libraries where realistic fiction is always welcome.
PREMIUM
Kill the Lax Bro
Readers who enjoy twisty murder mysteries with multiple narrators will want to scoop this one up, though they will have to tolerate some dated viewpoints along the way.
Honest, empowering, and deeply relatable, this novel is recommended for all young adult collections.
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