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Author/illustrator Suzanne Bloom reveals what makes a great picture book and tells the story behind her new title Zack and Ike Are Exactly Alike.

School librarians know that representation matters. Seeing themselves reflected in the books they read is empowering for LGBTQ+ youth. But it’s just as important for other students to hear LGBTQ+ voices amplified.

STEM education has been in the spotlight in recent years as part of a national push to involve more students in STEM careers. While this is certainly a worthy goal to advance innovation and ensure the nation’s competitiveness, the truth is that all students need to develop STEM literacy—whether or not they choose a career in these fields.

Reluctant and struggling readers come in every stripe from every kind of background, and publishers are creating books to appeal to all of them. From adorable board books to action-packed adventures to icky bugs and dinosaurs to lifelike teen situations, publishers want every kid or teen to close a book with renewed confidence in their reading ability.

Moving to a new ILS environment can seem like a daunting task, and this keeps many libraries from exploring other options that might serve their needs more effectively.

Students can get lost in a good story or a compelling nonfiction book on a topic that engages them—and that’s the kind of experience publishers are aiming for with their summer reading lists and programs.

There’s no doubt that pandemic-induced lockdowns increased both adults’ and children’s appetite—and need—for audiobooks. Now, new formats in audiobooks for kids are providing even more ways to consume digital storytelling.

If there’s a commonality to be found in these stories, it’s the existence of compelling, multidimensional characters who are finding their identity and learning how to cope within a complex environment—conflicts that resonate especially with young readers.

Scholastic is celebrating Black History Month with Share Black Stories, an initiative to amplify books that center Black lives and Black joy and stories that will resonate far beyond this one month. Build your bookshelf by sharing these books that explore Black history, experiences, and achievements all year round!