No time for chitter-chatter! We’ve more books to show you! If you’d like to see what we covered previously, check out Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, and Part 4 of this series so far! No More Mr. Mice Guy by Fiona Ross ISBN: 9781664300743 Publication Date: July 1, 2025 I think I saw an […]
The graphic adaptation of the second volume in the Junie B. Jones keeps the humor of the originals and lets the reader see Junie B.'s vivid facial expressions as well.
It’s my hope that young readers, whether you have a name for yourselves or not, feel seen and held by Briar and Finn. Like them, you’re here, and you exist.
Because language is inextricably linked to culture, every original Spanish-language book published makes Latinx culture more accessible to young readers. And many publishers select titles with specific Latinx-related content to amplify that benefit. Read on for a diverse array of new titles to help round out and enrich the cultural relevance of your Spanish-language collection this fall.
Schools can apply for the annual grants aimed at getting math-related titles to students.
Erica Sikma explains what led her back to school for her IMLS degree.
From a personal immigration story to the latest picture book from Sonia Sotomayor, these works for young people highlight the accomplishments and history of Latine people.
A dog's true best friend stars in its own show in this ludicrous and wonderful picture book readaloud. I interview its creator (dog lovers - this one's for you).
Author Gail Jarrow talks about her book about medical lies and cover-ups.
Check out this week's list of new comics, manga, and graphic novels for readers 12 and under, featuring Hooves of Death Volume 1 from Harper Alley and Rise of the G.E.M.S. from Roaring Brook Press.
Today we'll look at direct quotes of passages from 2026 Newbery contenders to see how the author's actual words might merit Award consideration.
Keezy Young joins us to talk about their new graphic novel, HELLO SUNSHINE.
New Delaware laws protect against book bans; national parks are removing titles from gift stores; Texas district offers tool for parents to monitor student reading; and more.
Just in time for her 20th anniversary, Kate and I tackle the fanciest nanciest gal in picture bookdom. WILL Kate think she's a brat? IS this the first book we've done with glitter on the cover? Listen and find out!
COLBY: I am always on the lookout for great middle grade nonfiction. It is a hole in both my classroom library and in my own personal reading. I’m thankful that authors like Nicholas Day are creating books that are filling that hole. In this episode, I chat with Nicholas about his new book A World […]
This came out early in the year, but I'd like to remind you to give it a close look. Highly sophisticated art with an incredible batch of storytelling. Galligan's greatest is here.
Cats join humans in the workforce in this delightful manga.
A ghost story marred by plotting and characterization issues. Not recommended.
A gentle romance and friendship tale for all BFFs (especially Swifties), with fantastic messages about honest communication and standing up for oneself and what is right.
From the informative bilingual poems to the incredible artwork, this title is a great choice to learn more about these important peoples. A must-have for children’s book collections.
This tender story about empathy, war, and family is a must-buy for libraries with readers who already love Applegate’s dynamic repertoire.
This book could be relevant to early discussions around emotional awareness and self-acceptance; an additional purchase for collections where SEL-themed books are valued.
Readers should get ready to laugh and cry as they spend the summer helping Glory and Gus solve the mystery of belonging.
This guide is a smart, accessible blueprint for youth and caregivers interested in making positive changes in their communities by providing sound advice and plans, moderated by the reality that creating change can be challenging. A great first buy for all libraries.
A vibrant celebration of life’s simple moments for quieter story hours, reminding children to go slow, to pause, notice, and cherish their worlds.
This book offers a clear, vivid, and detailed look at the birth of genetics, and the many photographs and illustrations make the story come alive.
Great for nonfiction and adventure lovers; a good start for history projects and reluctant readers in late elementary and early middle school.
A deeply affirming portrayal of sibling dynamics and growing up. Highly recommended for collections exploring family, emotional resilience, and love in all its quiet forms.
This gorgeously illustrated picture book about sisterhood is a must-purchase for all collections.
For libraries with an established audience for these popular books, this installment is a worthwhile purchase.
A concise, nondenominational primer for the Christian celebration of Christmas.
A cheerful early reader graphic novel full of happiness and positivity that would be an excellent addition to all Spanish-language collections for children.
This easy-to-enjoy story of two temperature-challenged creatures will be enjoyed on a hot summer day and throughout the year.
Hand this collection to any reader who is looking for a place made for them; they will find it between these pages.
For nonfiction that elicits an emotional investment from readers, this is an excellent purchase for all libraries.
For story hours and read-alones, this is for dinosaur lovers and all readers
A standout interactive and informational board book about Hanukkah that posits very young children as capable and confident learners.
Gentle and loving, this is a ghost story for readers who are looking for something beyond the traditional scary ghost story for a tale of everlasting connection. Wistful and wish-fulfillment personified: What reader has not hoped that a loved one long gone is near?
Yang’s abstract approach favors concepts over factual depth, making it less useful for reports but potentially valuable as a springboard for future research. A thoughtful addition where science-themed read-alouds or inspirational STEM titles are in demand.
A peppy introduction to Hispanic Christmas traditions for young readers.
This whisper-thin story is flat, lacking beauty and nuance, making this an optional purchase for school libraries.
Destined to be a favorite among spooky season enthusiasts young and old. A recommended purchase.
A must-purchase biography that illuminates both an important American innovator and the origins of a timeless art form.
Simple language and a straightforward, low-stakes plot works as a read-aloud in classrooms or libraries and fits neatly into story time themes about food, community, and working together. It offers equal parts delight and gentle life lessons.
This animal-centric picture book will be a hit with animal lovers but may not be enjoyable for others.
A fantastic purchase for YA collections.
Sonora Reyes joins us to talk about their new book. THE GOLDEN BOY'S GUIDE TO BIPOLAR.
BULLDOZER'S BIG RESCUE by Elisa Broach is shorter than most books in our Mock Newbery discussions, but the clever, concise, and funny text could make it a contender for the award.
All summer I basically just pet my dogs, read my books, and text my friends way too much. But you what I definitely did NOT do in July? Read any of these interesting books on this list, so onto my TBR list they go!
Come for the wacky promotional video for one of the greatest graphic novels of 2025. Stay for the celebrity picture book cameo at the very end.
Here's a look at the graphic novels that publishers have been acquiring, and when we can expect to see them.
To echo Guatemalan Archbishop Gerardi’s words, “Knowing the truth is painful, but liberating. Without it, the scars will never heal.”
These recent mysteries feature buried truths and hidden secrets just waiting to be shared and exposed. Young patrons can listen at their own risk. . . and beware the body counts!
The Freedom to Read Project has released a free advocacy guide and workbook; ALA sets date for Youth Media Awards; educators and public librarians can submit proposals for a visit from National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature Mac Barnett; and the National Women's History Museum opens registration for virtual field trips.
It may be a one-of-a-kind picture book, at least in the history of American publishing. A picture book about a mayoral candidate put out by a major publisher? How did this happen?
John John is the perfectly imperfect teen who is struggling to shape his own identity but can’t avoid the antiquated reach of his dad.
2025 is a very strong year for fantasy and today we highlight FOUR more potential Newbery fantsy contenders.
Why do none of us, including many, if not most, Puerto Ricans, know so little about our own mythology?
Some students in North Carolina will no longer have access to their public library through their school ID; Florida appeals Penguin Random House v. Gibson decision; book ban debates in Nevada and Iowa; and more.
The House of Hearts author shares with SLJ her love for the supernatural and discusses how teens can apply the otherworldly enchantment of dark academia to their own lives.
Our penultimate prediction post before final considerations. Here are the titles I think have the best show at the two major literary awards. Do you agree? Disagree? Find out!
This story set in the Canadian internment camps during World War II is set in a specific historical moment but also embodies universal themes of family, loss, and hope.
Teen Librarian Karen Jensen reviews MAKE ME A MONSTER, the newest release by YA horror and thriller author Kalynn Bayron.
Books shaped my life, and in gratitude, I try to make books for young readers that show what it’s like to live under an oppressive regime.
An inspiring story and a powerful look at what is happening not just to Yuli but in real-life classrooms all around our country. A good addition to high school collections.
Dustin Hensley's project-based learning program has an impact beyond the library walls.
Here’s a look at manga that feature short chapters, perfect for a quick, fun read—whether to dip in for just a few minutes or to get hooked and binge.
In time for Latinx Heritage Month and the publication of Fall of the Fireflies, García McCall presents a guide to the supernatural gods, monsters, and fiends from the Aztec Pantheon that appear in her new series.
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