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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!
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!
The National Book Award finalists have been announced!
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With a mother who grew up in Istanbul and a father who grew up in Montana, I spent much of my childhood traveling between those settings, figuring out how to exist in both, and grappling with questions of identity and belonging.
Celebrate the Jewish New Year by sharing these board and picture books.
Spooky month is here, and not only am I thrilled for the fall breezes and pumpkin decor, but I’m also excited for so many incredible YA releases that arrive this month. And there are so many. I cut this list down at least four times, and we’re still at 16 books! So here’s the 16books […]
PREMIUM
So Cold!
A vital book for cold days or warm ones, this is a STEM celebration of the amazing opportunities below-zero temperatures can provide for eager explorers.
PREMIUM
When Dogs Work
Covering a wide spectrum of the roles dogs play in our world, this board book will engage young readers and help them develop an appreciation for the amazing canines in our world.
This cotton candy confection of a big horse and a little girl will have broad appeal. Strong first buy.
PREMIUM
The Duel: A Story About Peace
This beautiful book about the healing of distance and reflection is recommended for all libraries where picture books circulate.
PREMIUM
Hay un lugar
A straightforward and helpful tool for discussions about expressing big feelings and different ways to receive support. Recommended.
A delightful message-in-rhyme makes for a fun read-aloud for anyone who’s ever wondered if they have what it takes to accomplish a goal.
PREMIUM
When Love Is More Than Words
This is a sweet book about love being shown in all the ways that matter and would be enjoyed by parents and children reading together or in story-hour settings.
The focus on two children experiencing trauma provides an opening for young people to process and discuss their own shared experiences in a story that is clear and honest without being didactic.
PREMIUM
Chooch Helped
This recommended story reminds readers how they could lead by example for those who are curious and want to also be included in the joys of life, be it miniscule chores or creating art.
PREMIUM
All the Books
A charming introduction to libraries but a missed opportunity for deeper explorations.
An engaging and culturally thoughtful picture book for libraries, especially for a family story time focusing on mirror-and-window encounters with heritage families.
PREMIUM
Dot! Scribble! Go!
An engaging exploration of creativity to use with children one-on-one or as part of an introductory art lesson; hand out finger paints and blank pieces of paper for messy story hours.
PREMIUM
Dance Fast
Readers can relate to the protagonist as they embark on their own creative endeavors.
A highly artistic rendition of a loved fantasy for the classroom and the public library shelves.
Rarely does a book build suspense as perfectly as this one. Readers will fall under the spell of the title and influence their friends to pick it up as well. Remember: Don’t just read, share.
PREMIUM
The Art Thieves
Enchanting and full of darkly prescient social commentary; a Cherokee dystopia with Afrofuturistic inspiration.
A superb addition to horror collections that will also satisfy fans of mythology, too.
PREMIUM
The Shadow Road
Filled with adventure, intrigue, and a bit of romance, this compelling read will capture the interest of teens and tweens.
PREMIUM
Lucy, Uncensored
An essential read for those who identify as gender diverse as well as for teens struggling to find their spots as they think beyond high school.
PREMIUM
The Forbidden Book
Despite the promise of “a genderqueer lesbian with a knife,” fans of Lamb’s previous work will struggle to connect with an uninspired lead character and a dearth of adventure.
PREMIUM
The Sweetness Between Us
A charming, paranormal graphic novel about falling in love and learning how to create healthy boundaries within relationships.
PREMIUM
I Shall Never Fall in Love
A charming, empowering story that will resonate with members of and advocates for the LGBTQIA+ community and their allies.
This must-purchase is an expansive narrative that skillfully examines the ways a family’s past affects descendants in the present.
PREMIUM
Castle Swimmer
With its existing fanbase, and sweet LGBTQIA+ story of defying destiny to beckon others, this series will prove a hit in many collections.
PREMIUM
Afterlife: The Boy Next Realm
A compelling quest into the depths of the human mind and the darkest tunnels of life and death that will appeal to mature readers who want challenging topics to ponder on.
Readers will flock to this graphic novel, especially fans of Webtoons, romantasy, secret identities, and ladies who are stronger than they look.
PREMIUM
There Is No Map for This
This will make a good addition to library collections that want to offer teenagers a frank and realistic look at, and how to deal with, grief.
PREMIUM
The Debutantes
This twisty mystery is recommended for thriller aficionados and collections where such titles circulate well.
A highly recommended addition to collections. This compelling novel leaves it up to Bella alone to admit she needs help and is an education—and a warning
PREMIUM
Zodiac Rising
This fast-paced, action-heavy fantasy will certainly leave readers begging for the next installment. Recommend it to fans of Cassandra Clare and Tracy Deonn.
PREMIUM
The Bitter End
A gripping, fantastically twisty mystery for fans of Karen M. McManus and Holly Jackson.
PREMIUM
For She Is Wrath
Hand to romantasy fans looking for an Arya Stark–esque heroine. This standalone is recommended for most collections.
In this exciting addition to YA shelves, Ali’s characters leap off the page. Highly recommended for all collections.
PREMIUM
Stronger at the Seams
This must-read book for teens with chronic illness has universal themes for all readers about the importance of self-advocacy, family, and friendship.
PREMIUM
Red in Tooth and Claw
All the gritty violence of a Western melds with a dark mystery to great effect. A definite purchase for most collections.
PREMIUM
Sona Sharma, a Friend Indeed
A well-crafted tale of class elections, self-awareness, and childhood friendship; a valuable addition to any collection.
A very successful biography that portrays a purpose-driven life fueled from Obama’s early years to the White House; the text captures the energy and passion of a man who broke barriers and changed history.
This well-written and well-illustrated book introduces young readers to an important writer, and is an excellent choice for discussing the significance of writers finding their own voices.
PREMIUM
The Pharaoh vs. the Felines
Entertaining and funny, this title is incomplete as nonfiction but makes for a good story.
A wonderful addition to library collections or for use in music classrooms to introduce this early childhood icon.
An accessible nonfiction book, perfect for children and read-alouds.
Despite that one caveat, this is a useful resource for introducing physical activity and breaks, making it a solid addition to collections seeking new ideas.
A well-researched and excellent addition to STEM classes and library collections.
PREMIUM
The Wolfpack Way
The illustrations carry this book; readers will enjoy seeing recognizable characters who express their individuality, which may be enough to offset the unwieldy text.
With the stated shortcomings, this title will be of interest to collections where tales of animal heroics are popular.
This collection will draw Ito’s loyal fans and horror enthusiasts; an additional purchase for libraries where his other work is popular.
PREMIUM
Last Quarter, Vol. 1
This supernatural mystery comes with moments of intensity, but nonetheless makes for an interesting read.
This is a quality guide on manga iconography, and due to its niche nature, it is recommended mainly for systems that serve large populations, or those that prioritize the arts.
Though it has elements of garden variety romance, this manga tosses some surprises into the mix, making it a more interesting option for readers to check out.
PREMIUM
Pupposites Attract, Vol. 1
While this manga won’t be for everybody, its art and subject matter are unquestionably delightful; a light title that will keep readers smiling.
PREMIUM
Fool Night, Vol. 1
Readers of The Summer Hikaru Died will appreciate this delve into a well-crafted body horror story.
PREMIUM
Haikyu!! (3-in-1 Edition)
This 3-in-1 edition is a great investment for libraries looking to save a little bit of shelf space while offering a perennial favorite that will resonate with readers for years to come.
PREMIUM
Neopets: The Omelette Faerie
This would feel right at home as an in-game comic, but outside of its fans, it may not stand as well.
PREMIUM
Second to None
Despite issues, this is a fine addition to libraries looking to expand their middle grade collections; fans of Gordon Korman and Max Brailler will enjoy DJ’s high jinks.
PREMIUM
The Witching Wind
Although the plot sometimes gets tangled in metaphor, this is a warm and lyrical story about the ways that connections between loved ones can stretch across distance and time.
A terrific book that uses horror to discuss the importance of family, remembrance, and the matrix of support needed to thrive in this world and beyond.
A first purchase for middle school libraries, especially where fresh approaches to sports fiction are in high demand.
PREMIUM
The Night Mother
This gothic graphic novel will appeal to young readers who want to branch out from the popular tropes of middle grade stories.
PREMIUM
Tinker Bell and the Lost City
A must for fans of Tinker Bell and for libraries seeking classic fantasies with refreshingly modern twists.
PREMIUM
Leon: Worst Friends Forever
This graphic novel is great for fans of adventure and can be read as a stand-alone title.
PREMIUM
Noodle & Bao
Timely and engaging, the book’s adorable characters and heartwarming approach to a serious issue will have broad appeal.
An anthology that beams with heart and hope, especially for young Black girls. Recommended for all middle grade collections.
This hilarious look into life as a kid in the summer of 1975 is a must-have for any and all middle grade libraries.
From break of dawn to day’s end, the journey of the sun as captured in lyrical text and stunning illustrations is a joy to behold. Highly recommended for all collections to encourage curiosity about life on Earth and the connections all living beings share.
An economic lesson that reads like a fairy-tale and turns out to be true, this book is a charming and accessible story that teaches values of saving, expanding, working with others, and dreaming big. Outstanding.
PREMIUM
El Pez Arcoíris
A lovely translation of the classroom staple, this title is a solid choice for Spanish-language collections.
PREMIUM
What Lolo Wants
A gentle read-aloud that celebrates love in change, this could be included on the SEL shelves.
PREMIUM
Everything Is Grape!
Zany energy, expressive illustrations, and a sweet ending can’t overcome a somewhat confusing narrative.
Despite a busy plotline, this is an overall sweet story about feeling connected with family, even across distances, and honoring traditional remedies. Recommended.
PREMIUM
I Can Help in the Neighborhood
A simple but winning story of cooperation, kindness, and the importance of being willing to lend a paw.
A masterpiece of speculative, postapocalyptic fiction that demands to be devoured in a night or two, this is a white-knuckle ride into the future that is both moving and frightening. If Octavia E. Butler’s Parable of the Sower were written for teens, it might look like Tew’s debut.
PREMIUM
Divine Mortals
A melting pot of everything BookTok loves, this feels destined to be a hot title this fall. A first purchase.
PREMIUM
The First Pharaoh
An action-packed take on Egyptian mythology that will appeal to teens who like antiheroes.
PREMIUM
The Wild Huntress
A gripping and tightly woven adventure with high emotional stakes, recommended for purchase.
PREMIUM
Inheritance of Scars
A solid debut dark fantasy inspired by Norse myth and folklore sure to please the intricate romantasy reader.
PREMIUM
This Dark Paradise
An additional purchase for fantasy collections seeking dark but fun stories.
Using the story of Jim and Huck as a springboard, this well-researched, well-written book belongs in all library collections.
A present-day Judy Blume’s Forever, this novel has been set up by its author to become a modern classic.
A visually stunning and narratively powerful book that gives a voice to the often-silenced women of Greek mythology. It’s a must-read for anyone interested in mythology or feminism, or simply in search of a beautifully crafted book.
Complete with scientific sources and interactive activities, this title is great for middle grade and early high school readers.
An excellent purchase for elementary and middle school nonfiction collections where dinosaurs and prehistoric beasts are always of interest.
PREMIUM
A Guide to Grief
Recommended. This is an age-appropriate and culturally sensitive introduction to grief loss that gives some scientifically backed strategies to support young people, their friends, and families.
An interesting look at some famous musicians when they were “just kids.”
Readers will enjoy examining the pictures in this innovative approach to the subject of patience; it’s a book most collections will want to find room for.
A beautiful and endearing introduction to Dickinson, her poetic inspirations, and her special bond with her dog. Perfect for a poetry unit or a shelf on women writers.
This novel about mischievous, magical triplets who are trying not to get sent to wizard school is a feel-good, lighthearted read.
For fans of the comics and upcoming young artists, this manga biography may intrigue and inspire.
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