SLJ montage. Source art: SiberianArt; CreativaImages. Both Getty Images.

As readers pass through the stages of literacy development, from recognizing letters and decoding words, all the way up to reading fluently and devouring book after book, series fiction plays an important role in creating welcoming, familiar, and fun reading experiences. These books allow kids at every level to encounter success, create strong reading habits, and confidently move on to the next stage. Librarians strive to have the perfect next book ready to go for their patrons, and Fiction Series Made Simple is here to support that work.

Our team of expert reviewers examined picture books, decodable sets, and early readers that have the potential to provide options for readers at the beginning of their reading journey, as well as high-interest formats like hi-lo and graphic novels that will appeal to experienced readers who need additional support. The second book in an epic duology or the continuation of a wacky adventure can be found in the middle grade and young adult reviews, and the robust chapter book selection is full of gentle, diverse stories for newly independent readers.

We are pleased to add manga to Fiction Series Made Simple this season, an ever-popular genre that can be overwhelming to keep up with. We hope all these reviews help librarians as they develop collections that will ensure their patrons always have their next read lined up and ready to go.

Beth Ellen McIntyre,
Series Made Simple Editor

2025 Spring Fiction
Series Made Simple Reviews