On the six-year anniversary of THE VERY LAST CASTLE, I'm giving away some copies.
Are you ready to repair the world or maybe just improve it or make it right? Ruth Spiro drops by to talk about her latest, as well as the concept of tikkun olam in today's society.
A conversation with Hanna Harms about researching her graphic novel Milk Without Honey, a meditation on bees and their importance to our world.
Librarian Jackie Eagleson shares middle grade books that talk about cryptids
When we write, research, and even read about things that truly excite us, the job is suddenly fun. In fact, it’s no longer a job. It is a joy.
Here’s to children’s books that expand our assumptions of what a children’s book can be.
Brianne Colombo believes libraries and bookstores are complementary, each creating "third spaces" for community members.
Beatrix Potter meets Brian Floca in this latest title from the extraordinary Torben Kuhlman. I premiere his latest book cover in this one-of-a-kind reveal.
These guides compassionately provide support, resources, and coaching for young people navigating death and loss.
Beatrix Potter meets Brian Floca in this latest title from the extraordinary Torben Kuhlman. I premiere his latest book cover in this one-of-a-kind reveal.
Check out this week's list of new comics, manga, and graphic novels for readers 12 and under, featuring The Night Mother Volume 1 from Oni Press and Monster Locker from First Second Books.
32 unique titles were chosen in the first round of Heavy Medal nominations.
These authors show readers that grief is not something to “get over,” but something to adapt to, to work through. It’s OK to not know how to feel, what to do, or what to say.
What I really loved about this book is that it shows a really good, healthy, positive relationship steeped in friendship, respect, and support.
Gracey Zhang and I have a new book coming . . .
Wanna read a book about a woman attempting to "reinhabit her epidermis"? If so, I can't think of a better candidate than this 2004 release (which retains its creepiness today) by the legendary Virginia Hamilton.
Why, hello, funniest graphic novel of 2024 for kids!
Unlike the Newbery and most other ALA awards, the National Book Awards share their longlists and shortlists of finalists. The first ten for Young Peoples Literature were announced in September and now there are five remaining: BUFFALO DREAMER- Duncan (no current suggestions) THE GREAT COOL RANCH DORITO IN THE SKY- Galarza (teen book, no suggestions) […]
I remember going to the local library, getting my first library card, and piling the car with books. I couldn’t believe it—I could take them home? We didn’t have to pay for them? And I could bring them back and then get more? It was the greatest thing ever!
Ah, October. Hoodie weather. Pretty leaves. Apple and pumpkin everything. Impending long, cold, dark winter. Needing to get out my Happy Light. Okay... maybe I should stop listing things fall brings. But it does bring a nice batch of new books!
In the book, Mendel is convinced he's been cursed, and it might be true. But I think it's safe to say we, cursed or not, all have aspects of ourselves we find troublesome.
With important themes, and careful crafting, this is worth considering for most libraries.
This would be a good choice for picture book collections needing books about nature that have high-level vocabulary, even if they are coupled with adorable scenes that make the book read younger.
Highly recommended. In narrative construction and sequential art, this story of athleticism, the fragility of confidence, and teen friendship unfolds with the grace and power of the sport of gymnastics itself.
An additional purchase for collections where Hanukkah stories are popular.
A good addition about natural disasters for chapter book collections.
A focused and rewarding sports story that will leave readers cheering for the inspiring Peace Academy team, and a great recommendation for sports fans or new students worried about finding their place.
Gritty and gripping; give to fans of Courtney Summers and Mindy McGinnis immediately.
Hand to teens who like reading about role-playing games with a side of romance.
While the nostalgic teen detective storyline and unique subscription box premise holds promise, unsteady execution prevents this graphic novel from reaching its potential.
This holiday story is perfect for fans of the series and for libraries looking to build their Lunar New Year collections.
In a world where anti-Semitic violence has steadily risen since 2016, this book delivers a reminder that Jewish people are musicians, athletes, activists, religious leaders, and just like everyone else
A gentle look at one family’s community and culture.
With its unique blend of science, humor, and visual appeal, this is a must-read for anyone curious about the natural world.
Not an essential purchase, but a charming interactive board book to bring Christmas cheer nonetheless.
A worthy addition for collections looking to broaden coverage in their religions representation.
An introspective coming-of-age novel in verse that is a must-have for young adult collections.
A strong follow-up to the first book and an absolutely delightful choice for story time or an elementary school classroom read-aloud.
This story teaches a positive lesson about working together to complete a task and spread holiday cheer. A lovely choice for holiday shelves.
Guaranteed to inspire young scientists and environmentalists eager to learn how the past can guide us to a sustainable future. Highly recommended for the middle school library and classroom.
A delightful first buy, full of fun and interesting facts and photos that will appeal to shark fanatics and the merely curious.
This well-loved tune, now in book form, is a perfect addition to any Halloween collection.
Fans of the original will enjoy this Christmas rhyme just as much.
A twisted reimagining that’s sure to thrill readers.
Warm presentations of vulnerable species will appeal to young animal lovers in these read alouds.
This is a lovely depiction of a parent sharing their culture with their child in a way that will feel refreshingly new and happily familiar.
This is a buoyant look at inspiration from those who have come before, and it’s a good choice for libraries needing books about artists and inspiration.
A great resource for research projects and nature enthusiasts, recommended for middle grade science collections. Finally, some good news about the future of honey bees!
Hand this to fans of Karen M. McManus or students looking for a thrill without the gore. Recommended as an additional purchase.
Full of humor and heart, this is a must-buy for any school or public library. Hand to readers who love a good laugh but will also benefit from a quick lesson.
Purchase to fill a hole in coverage of international celebrations and for readers who enjoy a good scare.
While readers will find interesting tidbits, they will come away wishing for fewer words and more recipes.
A raw and fiercely gripping portrayal with paramount representation.
Race car and holiday fans will enjoy this befitting story for picture book collections.
Buy this one ASAP. This honest and compassionate dealing of a common occurrence in preschool and elementary school reminds kids to be kind to each other when accidents happen.
Until there is a more informative book about this unique celebration, this works in large collections.
A potentially popular addition to elementary library collections. Readers will likely enjoy Betty’s enthusiasm and excitement around the Christmas holiday.
A lovely fiction pick for readers who don’t often see themselves represented in fiction, those interested in learning more about Hmong spiritual beliefs, or seeking a fantasy genre not often explored for this age group.
A perfect recommendation for fans of animal adventure stories of all stripes in the mood for a thrill and a laugh.
A roundup of 2024 Halloween books.
As assessment and recovery efforts continue, Tennessee Association of School Librarians president Dustin Hensley is stepping up to assist in the catastrophic aftermath of Hurricane Helene. Here are some ways to help.
For the Sra. Mimís who help the world go around, this picture book belongs on every picture book shelf.
For the Sra. Mimís who help the world go around, this picture book belongs on every picture book shelf.
A middle grade graphic novel that explores family relationships in the most stressful of times.
Teen librarian Karen Jensen dives into spooky season by sharing some of her favorite teen horror books that somehow involve killer camps
Well-written, complex, and unique. An excellent read.
Charlotte was my student in a university fiction course during the pandemic. A couple years later, I was delighted to find out that my publisher had chosen Charlotte to illustrate my cover!
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