Children’s / Teenage fiction and true stories

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Book SynopsisFans of Jandy Nelson and Marieke Nijkamp will love this deeply moving novel in verse about the aftermath of a gun accident.Life changes forever for Liv when her older brother, Jonah, accidentally shoots himself with his best friend Clay’s father’s gun.Trade Review"Culley’s compelling free-verse poems accumulate into a poignant story of a family that was already struggling and then transformed into something unrecognizable. Liv’s narration is touching, honest, and perceptive. A story of love and resilience as much as loss and grief." — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books (starred review) "Piercingly realistic. A poignant, humanizing exploration of a sadly timely issue." — Kirkus Reviews "An emotional journey that follows a life-altering tragedy. Culley weaves carefully chosen details into a slowly forming tapestry. A tale that is both harrowing in subject matter and elegant in execution." — ALA Booklist "A heartbreaking story about a topic that is too prevalent in today’s society." — School Library Journal "Eloquent narrative verse. Culley deftly captures the community’s nuanced responses and the heartbreak both families navigate as this devastating tragedy becomes a political battleground." — Publishers Weekly

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Book Synopsis?A darkly humorous, rapid-fire read.? ?Kirkus ReviewsStranger Things meets Buffy the Vampire Slayer in this contemporary novel from Francesca Zappia, the acclaimed author of Eliza and Her Monsters. When Zora Novak is framed for a crime she didn?t commit, she must track down the true culprit and clear her name before it?s too late. But in a small town obsessed with ghosts, getting people to believe the truth might prove to be impossible.When someone burns down the home of the school janitor and he dies in the blaze, everyone in Addamsville, Indiana, points a finger at Zora. Never mind that Zora has been on the straight and narrow since her father was thrown in jail. With everyone looking for evidence against her, her only choice is to uncover the identity of the real killer.There?s one big problem?Zora has no leads. No one does. Addamsville has a history of tragedy, and thirty years ago a similar string of fires left several townspeople dead. The arsonist was never caught.Now, Zora must team up with her cousin Artemis?an annoying self-proclaimed Addamsville historian?to clear her name. But with a popular ghost-hunting television show riling up the townspeople, almost no support from her family and friends, and rumors spinning out of control, things aren?t looking good. Zora will have to read between the lines of Addamsville?s ghost stories before she becomes one herself.Acclaimed author Francesca Zappia has a perfectly pitched teen voice that shines in this inventive novel.Now Entering Addamvsilleis perfect for fans of Brittany Cavallaro, Victoria Schwab, Riverdale, Truly Devious, andThe Chilling Adventures of Sabrina. Includes interior spot illustrations from the author.

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Book SynopsisMadalyn discovers she’s the only Black girl in her class, and while most of her classmates are friendly, assumptions lead to some serious storms. Papa Lobo’s long-running feud with neighbor Mrs. Baylor brings wild weather of its own, and Madalyn wonders just how far things will go.Trade Review"Davis captures the often glossed over tenderness of preadolescence, the space between blossoming independence and a lingering desire for the comfort and support of caregivers. As feel-good realistic fiction, this title reminds young readers that families and friendships alike require honesty, compromise, and understanding—especially when the forecast is partly cloudy." — Booklist (starred review) "Young readers will grapple with different interpretations and come to their own conclusions about how not to let the bad actions of others allow one to compromise one’s core principles, and the sticky question of whether any part of the burden for making peace rests with those who are the victims of discrimination. The California setting, amid the reality of the state’s wildfires, will resonate with readers who live with climate-related threats. A timely novel full of thought-provoking questions." — Kirkus Reviews "In this gentle multigenerational narrative, Davis (Serena Says) explores race, tough conversations, and climate change as her endearing protagonist learns to face conflict and embrace community." — Publishers Weekly "Timely and original. A tender, honest look at friendship, family and the changing nature of both. I so related with Madalyn grappling with the big and small storms life threw her way and cheered when she learned she had the strength to weather just about anything. A delightful, inspiring read." — Lisa Moore Ramee, author of A Good Kind of Trouble and Something to Say Praise for SERENA SAYS: "Middle school energy forms a bustling backdrop for this clever story of navigating changing relationships and developing a sense of personal identity. At the center is spirited, smart Serena, someone readers will appreciate and cheer. A delightful multicultural narrative that spotlights friendship and self-awareness." — Kirkus Reviews (starred review) "Serena is a smart, intuitive Black girl with relatable fears and insecurities; as the book progresses, she decides she’s ready to step into the spotlight all on her own. Davis capably touches on matters of chronic illness, mental health, and friendship growing pains in this quiet but impactful slice-of-life novel." — Publishers Weekly "Being the new kid in seventh grade isn’t easy, and [neither is] being Black in a sea of white and brown faces. Davis suggests alternate paths for her protagonist—and by extension, readers—through Madalyn’s challenge: assess whether the friendship is worth pursuing and, if so, insist on the difficult and honest conversations necessary to lay its foundation; or accept the permanence of disaffection, while acting with dignity and respect. Madalyn and Natalie’s . . . mutual courage in reaching for reconciliation offers readers much to ponder." — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books "This deeply relatable novel about changing friendships and finding your voice is one I desperately needed as a kid. Serena's voice is pitch-perfect and Davis's portrayal of middle school struggles is both captivating and heartfelt." — Janae Marks, author of From the Desk of Zoe Washington “Relatable, honest, wise and witty: Serena Says is an essential read for all of us learning to find our voice.” — Lisa Greenwald, author of the TBH and Friendship List series

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Book SynopsisAt a time when we are all asking questions about identity, grief, and how to stand up for what is right, this book by the author of A Thousand Questions will hit home with young readers who love Hena Khan and Varian Johnson—or anyone struggling to understand recent U.S. history and how it still affects us today.Trade Review"Faruqi finds engaging ways to explore how myriad tragedies of 9/11 have lodged in our memories, from uncomfortable questions in Yusuf’s classroom to a conflict over the construction of a mosque... Among the novel’s strengths is the hope it offers young readers, because despite the real menace from those who consider Muslim Americans “the enemy … among us,” Yusuf does have allies. They cannot solve all his problems, but they can see him as we all hope our children will be seen, for their decency, potential and hearts." — New York Times Book Review "Gripping, well-paced, and poignant, this is an essential purchase for all libraries and a must-read book of our times that raises important questions about who controls historical narratives, what it means to stand up for justice, and the legacy of an event that cannot be forgotten." — School Library Journal (starred review) "A timely, emotional story full of hope and love even in the face of discrimination and prejudice." — Kirkus Reviews "Yusuf Azeem Is Not A Hero will surely help spark many conversations about Islamophobia and xenophobia, as well as how much things have changed in the past 20 years. Faruqi's emotional story will resonate with older readers who lived through the events many years ago, and younger readers will gain insight on the lasting effects that the 9/11 attacks had on Americans and why they are an important part of history." — Booklist "Faruqi effectively probes complexities of radical activism vs. peaceful accommodation as Muslim response to prejudice, as well as the non-Muslim community’s deep discomfort in stepping beyond a bystander role in defense of their neighbors." — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books "[A] timely, hopeful middle grade novel." — Publishers Weekly

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Book SynopsisBased on the Molly of Denali TV show now airing on PBS KIDS! A-maze-ing Snow is a storybook with stickers! A blizzard blows through Qyah, Alaska, and the school roof caves in! Luckily, Molly knows just how to raise the money to fix it . . . a winter carnival! When Molly wants to build the most amazing maze for the carnival, she discovers she needs a little help from her friends—and a LOT of help from a map! Produced by WGBH Boston, Molly of Denali is an action-adventure comedy that follows the adventures of feisty and resourceful 10-year-old Molly Mabray, an Alaska Native girl. Molly helps her mom and dad run the Denali Trading Post, a general store, bunkhouse, and transport hub in the fictional village of Qyah, Alaska. Each episode follows Molly, her dog Suki, and her friends Tooey and Trini on their daily adventures in Alaska, from fishing for salmon to delivering a camera to friends on a vo

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Book SynopsisThe second book in a new arc in the bestselling Amelia Bedelia chapter book series featuring young Amelia Bedelia and her friends! It’s a piece of cake!Amelia Bedelia + Good Friends = Super Fun Stories to Read and ShareAre Amelia Bedelia and her friends barking up the wrong tree? Recess just got super exciting. Amelia Bedelia and her friends are on the playground when they hear a strange noise coming from a nearby tree. It’s a tiny kitten stuck on a high branch! It’s up to Amelia Bedelia and her friends to figure out how to rescue the kitten and, once they do, to find the little cat a purr-fect new home! A funny chapter book series about friendship perfect for fans of Ivy + Bean and Clementine. The Amelia Bedelia books have sold more than 35 million copies since we first met the iconic character in 1963! Includes “Two Ways to Say It,” Amelia Bedelia’s guide to the idioms use

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Book SynopsisPerfect for fans of Orphan Island and Wishtree, The Mending Summer is the next stunning middle grade novel from Ali Standish author of the Carnegie Medal nominee The Ethan I Was Before and August Isle, Bad Bella, and How to Disappear Completely about a girl who is struggling to deal with her father's alcoholism when she discovers an enchanted lake...Some summers are meant to break your heart. Others to mend it. Every once in a while, a summer rolls around that does both. For Georgia, this summer is shaping up to be a big disappointment. Mama is busy studying for her biology degree. Daddy is working nights, and often the man who comes home isn't Daddy. He's a man who looks like Daddy, but walks a little wobbly. Who sounds like Daddy, but sings a little too loud. Georgia calls him the Shadow Man.So now, instead of riding horses with her friends at camp, Georgia is sent off to the country to stay with her mysterious great-aunt for the summer to avoid her parents' fighting.There, a lonely Georgia meets a mysterious friend named Angela and together, they discover a magical lake one that can make wishes come true. At first, the lake offers Georgia a thrilling escape from her worries and hope that she can use its magic to heal her family. But as things grow worse at home, a troubled boy appears at the lake and the wishes threaten to spiral out of control . . . Award-winning author Ali Standish explores the courage it takes to piece your heart back together again when those closest to you break it. Standish has created a timeless tale of discovery, growth, and relationships. A powerful story about an important topic. School Library Journal (starred review)?Readers will be drawn into this story of friendship, magic, and the heartbreak and healing of addiction.? KirkusA JUNIOR LIBRARY GUILD SELECTION!

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Book SynopsisTrade ReviewPraise for TBH, This Is So Awkward: “Get ready to fall in love with these girls who use their humor and wit (and lots and lots of emojis) to right wrongs and build bridges.” — ALA Booklist “Greenwald successfully blends emojis and text to bring the high drama and emotional changes of middle school to life. This first in a new series for preteens and young teens who value friendship and doing the right thing is pretty endearing.” — Kirkus Reviews “In this fine successor to Lauren Myracle’s TTYLand its sequels, Greenwald (11 Before 12) realistically captures the language of texting tweens, including exuberant use of emoji, and how mistakes can be made and tone misunderstood amid rapid-fire digital conversations.” — Publishers Weekly “Enticing and readable.” — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books “Srsly, IDK how Lisa does it. These characters are so real! XOXOXO!! <3” — Lauren Myracle, New York Times bestselling author

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Book SynopsisAmerica, do you love me? Acclaimed author-artist Daria Peoples-Riley invites readers to answer timely—and timeless—questions beating inside the hearts of children across America. Exquisitely illustrated, with a powerful, lyrical text, America, My Love, America, My Heart will challenge readers of all ages to examine and evaluate personal beliefs and attitudes toward the many different colors of America. America, do you love me? My black. My brown. My pride. My crown. What begins as a single question from a single child multiplies as America, My Love, America, My Heart sweeps across the country with every page turn, inviting in more and more children of color—and their questions. Does America love them when they speak? Or whisper? Or shout? When they stand? Does America love them just as they are? Inspired by the questions of her own childhood, author and artist Daria Peoples-Riley has created a powerful and important book for Americans of all ages—an essential addition to every bookshelf and classroom. Her poetic text encourages readers to confront bias, prejudice, and discrimination and invites readers to reflect and respond with their own answers, while honoring the identities of black and brown children and people of color.The unforgettable monochromatic oil paintings incorporate patriotic colors—red, white, and blue—to evoke deeply felt emotion and unique perspective. This rich, resonant book is a conversation starter for children, for families, for classrooms, and for communities. 

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Book SynopsisFrom New York Times bestselling author Jason June comes a moving and hilarious sex-positive teen rom-com about the complexities of first loves, first hookups, and first heartbreaks—and how to stay true to yourself while embracing what you never saw coming, that’s perfect for fans of Sandhya Menon and Becky Albertalli.Trade Review“Jason June, please feel free to check “conquering my heart” off your agenda, because I’m so in love with this book, it’s ridiculous. Jay’s Gay Agenda is funny, sincerely romantic, and infused with love from start to finish, starring a vividly drawn cast of characters who don’t even try to play it cool. I’m beyond charmed.” — Becky Albertalli, New York Times bestselling author of Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda June's debut is funny, sex-positive, and filled with a cast of complex, incredibly real characters . . . A charming, affirming coming-of-age story about friendship, relationships, and chosen family. — Booklist "The story will amuse readers who are looking for a light read . . . Queer, fluffy fun." — Kirkus Reviews A sweet celebration of finding love in all its forms. Recommended for fans of Phil Stamper and Leah Johnson. — School Library Journal “Fantastically hilarious and profoundly sincere, Jay’s Gay Agenda is a can’t-miss debut. Jason June pens a flawless letter to queer teens, a reminder that they are worthy of messy friendships, clumsy firsts, complicated feelings, and cinematic happy endings like anyone else. This book sparkles from start to finish.” — Julian Winters, award-winning author of Running With Lions "Brave, hopeful, and absolutely packed with joy, Jay’s Gay Agenda crosses every item off my list. I can't wait for readers to fall in love with this powerful and heartwarming coming of age story." — Phil Stamper, bestselling author of The Gravity of Us and As Far As You'll Take Me "Jay’s Gay Agenda is the charming, funny, sex positive book I wish I had read growing up. Jason June does an incredible job of exploring messy teen relationships through Jay, a charming and deeply flawed protagonist. Painfully relatable and laugh-out-loud funny, Jay’s Gay Agenda is the teen romcom of your dreams." — Aiden Thomas, author of the New York Times bestseller Cemetery Boys "Jay's journey to finding their place in the world warmed my small-town heart." — Mason Deaver, award-winning author of The Ghosts We Keep and I Wish You All the Best "Jay's Gay Agenda is exactly the kind of funny, upbeat, queer coming of age story readers crave. Full of laughs, heartbreak, fun, and tenderness, this story is an ode to first loves, friendships, and learning to embrace yourself exactly as you are because as Jay comes to understand, who you are is exactly enough." — Kalynn Bayron, bestselling author of Cinderella Is Dead Jay's Gay Agenda is a delightful and emotional exploration of what it means to focus so much on checking things off a list that you forget yourself along the way. Every character is complicated, messy, and loveable, and it should be on EVERYONE'S agenda to grab a copy of this wonderful book!” — Ronni Davis, author of When the Stars Lead to You "Jay's Gay Agenda is the literal definition of a romp: It's funny, sexy, sweet and swoony in all the best ways and somehow still manages to capture the delicious, disastrous and overwhelming chaos and delight of suddenly getting caught up in a world of possibilities when there were none before. Honest and hilarious, this book should be on everyone's to-read list." — L.C. Rosen, author of Camp and Jack of Hearts (and other parts) "What an absolute delight of a debut! Relatable, hilarious, messy, earnest, and heartfelt, just the way the best coming of age stories are. Jay's Gay Agenda tackles friendship, first love, and ~feelings~ so masterfully that readers will come back to read it time and time again." — Emma Lord, author of Tweet Cute

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Book SynopsisRed, White, & Royal Blue meets The West Wing in Jasper Sanchez’s electric and insightful #ownvoices YA debut, chronicling a transmasculine student’s foray into a no-holds-barred student body president election against the wishes of his politician father.Trade Review"Refreshingly original, this debut by trans author Sanchez is a thoroughgoing delight that’s not to be missed." — Booklist (starred review) “Mind-bogglingly good. The narrative takes a smart, careful look at the intersection of identity and politics, and the fight in standing up for friends and ourselves, even against people that we love. I laughed, I cried, I rooted for Mark all the way. With everything that’s happening in the world right now politically, this is a novel that every teen needs.” — Kacen Callender, author of Felix Ever After "Charming, stunning, and unapologetically queer.” — Mason Deaver, bestselling author of I Wish You All the Best and The Ghosts We Keep "Sanchez expertly portrays political drama, toxic masculinity and activism all in a character holding fiercely to his queer identity." — Shelf Awareness “Heartwarming, inclusive, and intelligent. A recommended purchase for any library, especially those where books by Becky ­Albertalli and Benjamin Alire Sáenz are popular." — School Library Journal

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Book Synopsis*AN INSTANT NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER**A PUBLISHERS WEEKLY BESTSELLER*Shady Baby keeps it real in this picture book collaboration by New York Times bestselling duo actress and producer Gabrielle Union and NBA superstar and businessman Dwyane Wade.Based on their famous baby girl, Kaavia James:After a long morning of being fabulous, Shady Baby heads to the park for a relaxing play session. But what does she find?! Some not-so-nice kids picking on others.Shady flashes them a look—her famous side eye—and teaches them that it’s better to play nice. But when her feelings are hurt, will anyone stand (or crawl) by her side?Find out in this upbeat picture book that teaches kids to speak their minds and stand up for what they believe in. Perfect for fans of The Boss Baby and Feminist Baby! 

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Book SynopsisThe classic beloved favorite!For Milo, everything’s a bore. When a mysterious tollbooth appears in his room, he drives through only because he’s got nothing better to do. But on the other side, things seem different. Milo visits the island of Conclusions (you get there by jumping), learns about time from a ticking watchdog named Tock, and goes up against the dastardly Discord and Dynne. By the time Milo and Tock set off toward the Mountains of Ignorance to rescue the twin Princesses, Rhyme and Reason, Milo realizes something astonishing. Life is far from dull. In fact, it’s exciting beyond his wildest dreams…Copyright (c) 1961, renewed 1989 by Norton Juster(p) & (c) 2008 by HarperCollins Publishers

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Book SynopsisA young Dumplin’ meets Melissa in this joyful and energetic middle grade novel about a twelve-year-old girl living her life to the fullest, celebrating her love for sports and fighting for her right to cheer.Joy, a twelve-year-old trans girl, just moved to Texas with her mother and older brother. Her family has accepted Joy as the girl she is early in her transition, with little fuss, leaving Joy to explore her love of sports, competition, teamwork, school spirit, and worship.But when she is told she’s off the cheerleading team, Joy wants to fight for her right to cheer. As her battle with the school board picks up momentum, Joy attracts support from kids all around the country . . . she even gets the attention of her hero, trans activist Kai Shappley.Inspired by Kai’s own life, Joy, to the World is a timely story of living life to the fullest, celebrating and centering trans joy, courage, and resilie

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Book SynopsisDaydreamer Jason, 11, has just been [dropped] from his Little League team. Seeking solace at the baseball-card shop, he makes a startling hypothesis: ''Buck McHenry,'' star pitcher [of the Negro Leagues], could be school custodian Mack Henry. Mr. Henry''s identity, in doubt through much of the book, provides a mystery, a bittersweet revelation, and a satisfyingly dramatic denouement. The characterizations are pungent, the action (on and off the diamond) involving. A solid, rewarding story. —K. Finalist, 1992 Edgar Allan Poe Award, Juvenile Category (Mystery Writers of America)Children''s Choices for 1992 (IRA/CBC)

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Book SynopsisThis classic picture book is celebrating 50 years!Robert is an only child who never had to share his toys with anyone. He’s never had to worry about someone messing with his stuff or following him around. But when his mother starts watching a kid named Stevie, all of that changes. Now Robert has to share his space, his time, and his parents with Stevie.Then one day Stevie moves away. Robert thinks that life will finally return to normal, but something else happens. Something Robert never expected: Robert misses Stevie.Published when its creator, John Steptoe, was just nineteen, Stevie was greeted with wide acclaim and honors. It remains a true original.

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Book SynopsisFiery colors and hundreds of details evoke the sun–drenched beauty, the sweet smells, and the joyful sounds of a jewel–like little Caribbean island that a young boy rediscovers while on a visit with his best friend. Ages 3–6

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Book SynopsisI hate hate hated my friend. When I moved over in the school bus, she sat somewhere else. When her point broke in arithmetic and I passed her my pencil,she took Peter''s instead.Ask her, my mother said.Ask your friend why. 

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Book SynopsisA boy learns to be a big brother in this award-winning picture book by the legendary author Eloise Greenfield and two-time Caldecott Honor-winning illustrator John Steptoe.Kevin asked his mother to bring him a little brother from the hospital, but she comes home with a little baby girl instead. Worse, Mama and Daddy look at her like she''s the only baby in the world. It makes Kevin sick, until he begins to understand how important a big brother can be.Perfect for big brothers and sisters adjusting to their growing families!* ALA Notable Children''s Book * Boston Globe-Horn Book Award Honor Book * IRA/CBC Children''s Choices * Irma Simonton Black Award (Bank St. College of Ed.) *

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Book Synopsis[In] a joyous twist on the counting-book concept, a girl decides how many elephants are needed to pull a train out of a tunnel, paint the ceiling, go to the beach. . . .Bond''s well-executed illustrations [project] a contagious sense of movement. A puckish sense of humor prevails among elephants who skateboard, don sunglasses, act tough, and even wink at the audience. —SLJ. 1993 Pick of the Lists (ABA)

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Book SynopsisIn this celebration of the American landscape, Siebert''s measured verses convey the majesty of the mountain personified, Sierra herself. Minor''s stunning acrylic paintings evoke the breathtaking beauty of his subject. There is a siren''s-song quality to this lovely book [and] readers might well feel how tragically possible it is for us to love our wilderness to death. -- SLJ. 1992 Teachers'' Choices (IRA)Notable 1991 Children''s Trade Books in Social Studies (NCSS/CBC)Outstanding Science Trade Books for Children 1991 (NSTA/CBC)John and Patricia Beatty Award (California Library Association)

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