A fresh, fantastical debut steeped in mythology and beautiful storytelling; a recommended first purchase for public and school libraries.
A deft, multifaceted story filled with delightful characters and relatable emotions that weaves in serious discussions about keeping traditions alive in the modern world.
A great introduction to Holi for young readers, who may find its simplistic telling more accessible than a nonfiction book.
This contemporary adventure is an engaging exploration of Indigenous heritage and how stories carry through generations.
This beautiful novel will inspire readers who love poetry and historical feminist fiction; a triumph to add to any collection.
There are many books with more early reader–appropriate text and less problematic storylines and illustrations. Not recommended for purchase.
A high-interest, interactive adventure book for readers who prefer to engage with alternative novel formats.
A humorous and engaging romance. Recommended.
The natural world glows in these pages, but never in a sentimental way; this book pays attention to everything and reminds children to do the same.
A delightful story certain to win over listeners at story hours or in classroom units about food and what it means.
A heartfelt reminder that care, imagination, and memory are powerful forms of protection worth celebrating in every classroom.
Children will love the surprise ending and the expressive characters in this silly hibernation story.
Both romance and science fiction readers will keep this book circulating.
A book that would fit in with older collections but will feel out of place when stacked against other new and trending young adult novels.
Sure to spark conversation for any age. Recommended for public and school picture book collections.
A captivating look at the life and work of a childhood favorite, perfect for longtime fans of his work or those just encountering his legacy.
An excellent addition to collections with its helpful illustrations and plentiful facts.
This offers an engaging message for readers who want to follow their dreams and is a solid choice for fans of Jitterbug and Goth Moth.
While it has an intriguing premise, problems with worldbuilding and character development often made this book difficult to read. An additional purchase where fantasy series involving magic are popular.
A modern take on a classic that will keep high school readers intrigued.
While the pandemic theme may interest some readers, there are plenty of better quality teen novels featuring werewolves.
Reminiscent of the dark whimsy and romance of Erin Morgenstern’s The Night Circus, but for a younger audience, Montoya’s playful prose and lush world makes this a spellbinding experience.
An excellent choice for readers of vampire myths and folklore looking for a creative and new take that centers Black Caribbean teen girls.
An additional purchase where academic or science-themed fantasies circulate well.
A wintery wonderland of facts, introducing the sport and informational books simply and engagingly.
An essential tool for parents and teachers alike which will foster meaningful conversations with little ones experiencing big feelings.
A transgender teen struggles with a self-portrait assignment in this introspective and meditative look at gender and identity originally published in the Netherlands.
Toad on the Go, the sequel to the Geisel Honor-winning Towed by Toad, comes out on June 16, 2026. Today, we have a first look at the cover. But before the big reveal, I wanted to talk with author/illustrator Jashar Awan about how the book was made. Travis: What was the inspiration for Toad on […]
I wanted to bottle up all that magic from the past month by writing a book that might inspire other girls like me, while also channeling the fun and romance I’d experienced. And that was how my debut novel, You Had Me at Hello World, was born.
Whether they are returning home or going somewhere new for the holiday break, the promise of a magical Christmas romance awaits these teens.
Teens will easily devour this page-turner. Give it to fans of Mindy McGinnis, April Henry, and Sarah Beth Durst’s The Lake House.
A chilling premise and strong character work weighed down by repetitive execution, this is a general purchase.
A fun read with a time-traveling twist for fans of Jenny Han’s To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before.
A bold accomplishment that provides an unflinching yet compassionate look at schizoaffective disorder, and how love can help those living with it.
While this passion-filled romance and intriguing mystery falls short in immersing readers into magical world, its blend of romance, magic, and secrets will likely captivate those who enjoy character-driven YA fantasy with an element of forbidden love.
For fans of books like Tiffany D. Jackson’s Allegedly or E. Lockhart’s We Were Liars, teens that like to wrestle with ethical questions while piecing together the parts of a twisty thriller will enjoy this.
A highly recommended and relevant addition to any YA collection, especially in a high school setting, due to its engaging romance and exploration of contemporary issues.
Stories about diverse teens dealing with all types of difficulties while having full, rich lives and romance are still rare finds. This, and all of Stoeve’s novels, will fill that empty space on shelves perfectly.
A charming story about being accepted despite, or even because of, one’s differences.
This fun and friendly title is a perfect classroom read-aloud to prepare for, celebrate, or reflect on the joy of learning together.
In addition to serving as an engaging bridge for new graphic novel and horror readers, veteran junior high readers of both the format or the literary genre will find satisfaction here.
Though overburdened with side plots and additional characters, this witchy LGBTQIA+ fantasy romance will appeal to fans of F.T. Lukens and Aiden Thomas. Recommended as an additional purchase.
A challenging topic, mental illness, is given wings by the hope stitched into the many quilts of Tompkins in this wonderful book for all ages.
A vivid, powerful fantasy brimming with dragons, betrayal, and destiny. A must-purchase for collections serving teens who enjoy Tomi Adeyemi, Sabaa Tahir, and Christopher Paolini.
Devastating global events weave with the steadying beat of a fugue through cinematic, emotional illustrations; this is history writ large and small, for all readers.
This creepy, well-paced monster-hunting trip with a dash of romance will have broad appeal. A good purchase for public and school libraries.
An authentic coming-of-age story that encourages empathy, accountability, and confidence. Highly recommended for middle grade collections.
A great option for elementary readers who love epic battles of good versus evil unfettered by complex superhero lore.
Hand this exciting fantasy sequel to readers who enjoyed its predecessor and fans of anything magical and mysterious.
Purchase for older fantasy readers who enjoy stories with a good scare.
I feel like end-of-the-year books get so easily overlooked, especially when I've already been seeing "best of" lists for weeks. Be sure to check these out!
Elephants, mice, and dragons make their appearance in these fun and festive board books and picture books.
New month, new box of books from Penguin! I hope you find something fun to add to your winter reading lists.
Horror fans will devour this book.
A highly recommended cozy read. Hand this one to fans of Aiden Thomas and Becky Albertalli.
This modern Dracula retelling is packed with plenty of mystery for readers to sink their fangs into.
Modern and relatable, this series opener will delight horror and suspense readers.
A clever reboot, well imagined and well executed.
Readers who love Holly Jackson, Karen McManus, and E. Lockhart will find this book difficult to put down.
Perfect for fans of Nimona, this sapphic romance is sure to charm fairy-tale lovers who will swoon over the HEA ending. A recommended purchase for all graphic novel collections.
A propulsive, entertaining read about wealthy teenagers behaving badly and trying to survive high school and friendships.
A must-purchase for any high school library’s YA romance collection; this book will resonate with many readers, particularly fans of Quindlen and those struggling with their identity.
A strikingly unique and deeply intimate ruminative journey through a teen’s innermost feelings.
Purchase where magical realism and stories set in New York City do well.
The first volume in a boldly artistic manga series that effectively utilizes fine watercolor art as a backdrop to an emotional coming-of-age story.
Fans of Jenny Han and S. K. Ali’s smart, thinking heroines will enjoy Indy’s love story.
Give this humorous and modern Shakespeare retelling to fans of Molly Horton Booth’s “Arden High” series or any reader looking for a humorous graphic novel.
A poignant graphic narrative highlighting the path towards acceptance during a period of sorrow.
Librarians would be wise to add this novel to their collection, not only for its representation of people with so many beautiful differences, but because it’s a fun, angsty, poignant, and yet fast-paced story that will speak directly to all teens.
A first purchase. This is similar to other rom-coms that readers can’t get enough of.
A well-constructed thriller for mature teens that will keep readers guessing.
An eminently easy to read, pleasantly jokey comic perfect for a quick laugh for young readers.
This accessible introduction into young detective Korobá’s world is both narratively efficient and visually exquisite; a promising start to a planned series of graphic mysteries.
A great fit for readers who enjoy the style of “Owly” graphic novels, while also serving as an introduction to the forest ecosystem of a nurse log for classroom units and individual interest.
With its enchanting take on “Beauty and the Beast,” Lim’s (Her Radiant Curse) latest is recommended where fantasy and immersive folklore are popular.
An audiobook that blends unique storytelling with an exceptional vocal performance. This is a recommended choice where Hartman’s books are popular. Watt adds depth to each character, crafting a performance that has earned well-deserved critical praise and listener admiration.
Adler’s (Going Bicoastal) coming-of-age romance features strong themes of self-discovery, strength, and forgiveness. This audio will speak to those on the cusp of significant change, making it a strong choice for any YA audio collection.
Magaziner’s (“The Mythics” series) is recommended for listeners seeking a dynamic story mixing action, adventure, and friendship in a futuristic setting.
Bledel’s narration of a much-loved tale taps into older listeners’ nostalgia while also providing a beautiful, fresh introduction for new audiences. This is a treat.
A thematically rich story for all its seeming simplicity, excellent for shared reading and reflection around the December holidays or any other time.
A fantastic depiction of the upside of boredom
This book is great for all ages and should find a home in every public library and school library setting.
A well-intentioned concept bogged down by trite, inauthentic execution.
Not an essential purchase, but a fun addition for collections serving families who love folklore, cryptids, or anything just a little out of the ordinary.
A highly recommended, warm, funny, and meaningful addition to holiday and multicultural collections.
A sweet, soothing take on a familiar daily ritual, not necessarily for the library shelves.
A strong choice for libraries needing books to support scientific nomenclature for young readers.
Pleasing illustrations offer a visual introduction to the Golem of Jewish folklore but is less successful as an SEL title.
Young readers who feel that they too are not being seen (or heard!) will respond strongly to this confident and visually bold declaration of selfhood.
With themes of friendship, loyalty and persistence, this would be a good companion to I Must Have Bobo by Eileen Rosenthal.
A lively, culturally rich holiday tale that blends folklore, language, and inclusivity; a recommended addition to library shelves.
With a great mix of humor, action, and heart, this book packs a punch as a great choice for collections everywhere.
The ABCs can appeal to younger readers and the detailed information about atypical tools will keep older readers engaged, too.
This is a natural choice for bedtime collections, toddler story hour, and board book shelves; what could be more delightful than simple, rhythmic bedtime with whimsical art.
This is charming Korean retelling of a familiar story is refreshingly adapted, and will have listeners in story hours clamoring for more.
Rich vocabulary and a hilarious water-hating cat make this a stellar choice for all collections. Highly recommended and highly enjoyable.
An irresistibly witty look at modern parent-child dynamics, sure to delight at read-alouds.
A choice Spanish-language title for nonfiction shelves and curricular tie-ins.
Purchase where the “Lolo and Birdie” series and bilingual books circulate well.
Add the latest volume of the publisher’s adorable board book biographies to collections lacking Latinx representation.
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