Children’s / Teenage fiction and true stories

Book SynopsisReaders on the cusp of adolescence will find much to love in this novel by the author of the beloved MR. TERUPT series, that follows twin siblings Loretta and Waylon, and new friend Louie, the summer before middle grade, as they embark on a series of adventures which also prove to be life lessons in the making!Loretta and her twin brother, Waylon, are headed to middle school. Loretta has always been quick with her fists and her wits. Since Waylon is on the small side, Loretta doesn’t let anyone mess with him. But now she worries he won’t survive without her by his side. Her secret plan: bulk him up with muscle over the summer. Little does she know that Waylon has a plan of his own. He’ll show his sister he can take care of himself.As each puts their strategy in motion, Loretta and Waylon spend the summer going into the woods behind their house, even sneaking there late at night. That’s where they first encounter Louie. Louie is homeschoole

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisHere's the hilarious story of Donut, a scruffy unicorn who can't fly-- but who keeps on trying! From the author of One Big Pair of Underwear and the illustrator of Sweety.When Donut, a fluffy, scruffy unicorn with a colorful horn spots a bird in the air, she thinks, why can't I be up there, too? And so she jumps! off of a log and and even a trampoline. But thump! she falls down to the ground. After many attempts at flight (including wings fashioned out of sticks), Donut schemes with the other animals in the field, and finally comes up with an ingenious and imaginative solution. Finally, her perseverance pays off-- and Donut flies! With a simple text and expressive art, here is a character-driven story from a popular author-illustrator duo that's laugh-out-loud funny, ingenious, and sure to appeal to all those unicorn fans out there--especially those who like their unicorns a little on the imperfect side. &nbs

Read more less

Book SynopsisA heart-wrenching middle grade debut that considers homelessness from one girl's perspective and explores deep truths about the resounding impact of empathy. Perfect for fans of One for the Murphys and Paper Things.Fifth grade can be tough for anyone. There are cliques and mean kids and homework and surprise math tests. But after tragedy strikes her family, almost-eleven-year-old Maya has a painful secret that makes many days feel nearly impossible.And today might be Maya's toughest yet. Her family is on edge, she needs to travel alone across the city, a bully is out to get her, and Maya has to face this winter's biggest rainstorm without a coat or an umbrella.But even on the rainiest days, there's hope that the sun will come out soon.Emotional and compassionate, Shelter looks at homelessness through one girl's eyes and explores the power of empathy, friendship, and love.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisAn acclaimed author and a Coretta Scott King Honoree pair up for this tender story about friendship and accepting change. Two best friends (one of whom is imaginary) are inseparable until the day when one of them unexpectedly disappears.Others tried to tell me that she wasn’t real, that she was just imaginary. But what did they know? She was real to me.Then one morning... she was gone.What do you do when your imaginary friend goes away? Did you dream up the entire friendship? Maybe... But you miss her laugh, her comfort, and her silly mischief. It all feels so real... you couldn't have just imagined those things, right? Lush illustrations pair with touching text in this gentle picture book that illuminates the sweetness of first friendship, the sadness when it's lost, and the beauty in discovering new friends are just around the corner.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisUni the Unicorn for early readers! Another exciting Uni adventure that children will love in the Step into Reading series!Uni is generous, and wants to give Silkie a special present for his birthday. But Uni doesn''t have anything! So Uni asks different animals what they think the perfect present is. Uni gives Silkie many gifts on their special day together but there is one that is the most special.Uni the unicorn is a charming and relatable character! Fans of the picture books, as well as new Uni fans, will be excited to join this bighearted unicorn and friends on a new adventure of learning about disappointment and gratitude. Look for all the Uni readers:Uni the Unicorn Bakes a CakeUni the Unicorn Goes to SchoolUni''s First Sleepover Step 2 readers use basic vocabulary and short sentences to tell simple stories. They are perfect for children who recognize familiar words and can sound out new words with help.

Read more less

Book SynopsisUni the Unicorn for early readers! Another exciting Step 2 Uni adventure that children will love in the Step into Reading series!Uni has a new friend, a butterfly! First, Uni finds its cocoon and cares for it. It's incredible to watch nature's magic as the cocoon develops into and emerges as a butterfly. But Uni notices that the butterfly seems sad while other butterflies that are flying free seem really happy. So, it's time to say goodbye and allow the butterfly the freedom it deserves. That is what true friendship is all about!Fans of the picture books, as well as new Uni fans, will be excited to join this bighearted unicorn and friends on a new adventure of learning about caring for another and friendship. Look for all the Uni stories, including Uni the Unicorn Bakes a Cake, Uni the Unicorn Goes to School, Uni's First Sleepover and more!Step 2 readers use basic vocabulary and short sentences to tell simple stories. They are perfect for

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisIt's a bird! It's a plane! It's a... pancake? Here is a delightfully clever and endearingly funny graphic novel about a pancake named Peggy, who accidentally develops superhero abilities and must defend her home of Breakfast Town.    Life in Breakfast Town is pretty uneventful for Peggy Pancake. Her parents are always on her case, she's stuck in her perfect brother's shadow, and she just can't seem to avoid the Bacon Bullies at school. That is until one day, after an accidental mixup, Peggy finds herself with superhero abilities... Now, Peggy can flip! She can fight! She can FLY!    With the help of her new friend, Luc Croissant, Peggy must master her newfound skills. But danger is lurking in the Maple Mountains where Dr. Evil Breakfast Sandwich and his evil Henchtoasts are plotting something sinister. Can Peggy harness her powers and save all that is dear? Find out in: SUPER PANCAKE! 

Read more less

Book SynopsisIt's a bird! It's a plane! It's a... pancake? Here is a delightfully clever and endearingly funny graphic novel about a pancake named Peggy, who accidentally develops superhero abilities and must defend her home of Breakfast Town.    Life in Breakfast Town is pretty uneventful for Peggy Pancake. Her parents are always on her case, she's stuck in her perfect brother's shadow, and she just can't seem to avoid the Bacon Bullies at school. That is until one day, after an accidental mixup, Peggy finds herself with superhero abilities... Now, Peggy can flip! She can fight! She can FLY!    With the help of her new friend, Luc Croissant, Peggy must master her newfound skills. But danger is lurking in the Maple Mountains where Dr. Evil Breakfast Sandwich and his evil Henchtoasts are plotting something sinister. Can Peggy harness her powers and save all that is dear? Find out in: SUPER PANCAKE! 

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisExplore what it means to share space and have fun on the playground with this sweetly funny picture book of playground rules based in social-emotional learning.There are so many reasons why our playground RULES! 1. Everyone gets a turn, no matter how long it takes...2. We play fair (even when the weather isn't).3. We try to be patient, which is always worth it! This young picture book plays with the double meaning of rules to explore how following a few simple rules of kindness can make playtime more fun for everyone! Featuring simple text and engaging illustrations that embrace the varying needs and capabilities of the adorable cast of animal characters, Our Playground Rules! is the perfect tool to help small children feel seen and better empathsize with others.

Read more less

Book SynopsisFrom the creators of Our Playground Rules! comes this playful picture book about kindness and community in the classroom—a perfect read for back-to-school!This picture book plays with the double meaning of rules to explore how following a few simple rules of kindness can make schooltime more fun for everyone! There are so many reasons why our classroom RULES!1. We look out for each other.2. We share ideas and express ourselves!3. We clean up. We line up. And if we mess up, that''s okay. Mistakes are part of learning.Featuring simple text, gentle humor, and an adorable cast of animal characters, Our Classroom Rules! is the perfect tool to foster empathy, support social-emotional learning, and strengthen a sense of community in the classroom.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisA middle-grade mystery series that's spooky, creepy, and filled with gothic twists! Meet the Sinister-Winterbottom twins, who solve mysteries at increasingly bizarre summer vacation destinations in the hopes of being reunited with their parents—or at the very least finally finding a good churro.“An absolute delight. If I have to die in a waterpark, I want to die in this one.”—Holly Black, #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Cruel PrinceWickedly weird. . . . Will appeal to anyone who loved A Series of Unfortunate Events. —The New York TimesMeet the Sinister-Winterbottoms: brave Theo, her timid twin, Alexander, and their older sister, Wil. They’re stuck for the summer with their Aunt Saffronia, who doesn’t know how often children need to eat and can’t use a smartphone, and whose feet never quite seem to touch the floor when she glides—er—walks.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe spooky summer adventures of the Sinister-Winterbottom twins continue in another gothic mystery: can Theo and Alexander solve the secret of the Sanguine Spa in the little Transylvania Mountains? The second book in the new Sinister Summer series by #1 NYT bestselling author Kiersten White, called perfect for fans of Lemony Snicket, Edward Gorey, and Roald Dahl, by Shelf Awareness.After leaving Fathoms of Fun, the kids are on their way to the next odd summer destination their aunt has chosen for them. This time, they find themselves dropped off at the Sanguine Spa in the “little Transylvania Mountains.” There they meet the owners: Mina, her mysterious little sister, Lucy (who is extremely pale, can’t go in the sunlight, and has an affinity for hanging upside down from the ceiling), and their intimidating guardian, the Count.  When the Count sends all the children in the spa on a scavenger hunt, the Sinister-Winterbottoms use

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe third book in the middle-grade series that''s part Scooby-Doo, part A Series of Unfortunate Events, and entirely genius! Follow the Sinister-Winterbottoms on their most outrageous adventure yet, when they find themselves at a normal summer camp!After leaving the Sanguine Spa in pursuit of Edgaren''t, the kids find themselves at a mysterious summer camp, Camp Creek. There are lake games and happy counselors, and there''s even a tie-dye cabin. It''s all very . . . normal.But if Theo and Alexander know one thing, it''s that normal doesn''t always mean good. When everyone around her starts acting strange, Theo wonders if maybe the fumes from the tie-dye cabin are seeping into their brains, and she resolves to investigate what''s really going on at Camp Creek.   The third book in #1 New York Times bestselling author Kiersten White''s Sinister Summer series continues the adventures of the Sinister-Winterbottoms and thei

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisBoom! Snap! Whiz! Zap! The Magnificent Makers chapter book series is filled with science, adventure, and characters kids will love! Every book includes two science activities kids can do at home! This series is a modern day Magic School Bus for the chapter book reader!In class, Violet and Pablo have been learning about the icky world of germs! Violet has been out sick, and is excited she's feeling better... achoo! Well, she's mostly feeling better. She and Pablo are paired up with another classmate, Aria, who is a bit nervous that Violet keeps sneezing. When another riddle appears to transport them back to the Maker Maze--a magical makerspace--to learn all about bacteria, viruses, and fungi, Violet and Pablo find out why Aria is so nervous. Aria's body has more trouble fighting off illnesses than their bodies do. Together they learn all about good and bad germs, and why staying home until you're 100% recovered is really important. 

Read more less

Book SynopsisBoom! Snap! Whiz! Zap! The Magnificent Makers chapter book series is filled with science, adventure, and characters kids will love! Every book includes two science activities kids can do at home! This series is a modern day Magic School Bus for the chapter book reader!In class, Violet and Pablo have been learning about the icky world of germs! Violet has been out sick, and is excited she''s feeling better... achoo! Well, she''s mostly feeling better. She and Pablo are paired up with another classmate, Aria, who is a bit nervous that Violet keeps sneezing.When another riddle appears to transport them back to the Maker Maze--a magical makerspace--to learn all about bacteria, viruses, and fungi, Violet and Pablo find out why Aria is so nervous. Aria''s body has more trouble fighting off illnesses than their bodies do. Together they learn all about good and bad germs, and why staying home until you''re 100% recovered is really important.Don''t miss any books in this STEM-tastic series!#1: How to Test a Friendship#2: Brain Trouble#3: Riding Sound Waves#4: The Great Germ Hunt#5: Race Through Space

Read more less

Book SynopsisBoom! Snap! Whiz! Zap! The Magnificent Makers chapter book series is filled with science, adventure, and characters kids will love! Every book includes two science activities kids can do at home! A modern day Magic School Bus for the chapter book reader!Wacky scientist Dr. Crisp loves to invite students to the her Maker Maze for a STEM-filled adventure! Just solve a riddle and the portal to the Maze will appear! But there's a catch...if the kids don't complete a challenge fast enough, they can never come back to the Maze!Violet, Pablo, and Deepak return to the Maker Maze to learn all about outer space! But as they go through the levels of the Maker Maze, Pablo keeps making mistakes. Learning about space is his favorite, and his mistakes make him wonder whether he will ever be smart enough to be an astronaut.In this installment, the kids learn that mistakes are an important part of learning and being a Magnificent Maker. Don't miss any books in the

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisCelebra el otoño con este divertido álbum ilustrado en español lleno de manzanas. ¡Es perfecto para pequeños que comienzan a leer solos!Una hermana y un hermano le dan la bienvenida al otoño con una actividad clásica: ¡recogiendo manzanas! Pasean alegremente por un huerto de manzanas, y se apuran para escoger las mejores antes que otros niños se las ganen. La historia de este divertido día está llena de acción. Sus versos con rima son fáciles de entender, lo que asegura una experiencia de lectura exitosa. Este libro es perfecto para el otoño, y para leer en clase o antes de dormir. LEYENDO A PASOS es una línea de Step into Reading que ofrece ediciones en español de libros nivelados. Los libros Paso 1 tienen letra grande y palabras fáciles. Son ideales para niños que conocen el abecedario y que quieren comenzar a leer. Su ritmo, rima y p

Read more less

Book SynopsisDale la bienvenida al invierno con este álbum ilustrado en español acerca de un día nevado. ¡Es perfecto para pequeños que comienzan a leer solos!Jack y Jill y el gran perro Bill pasean en su trineo en un día de invierno. Cuando el gran perro Bill ve a un conejo en la colina, esto causa un caos. Esta divertida historia está llena de aliteración, rima y nieve . . . muchísima nieve. LEYENDO A PASOS es una línea de Step into Reading que ofrece ediciones en español de libros nivelados. Los libros Paso 1 tienen letra grande y palabras fáciles. Son ideales para niños que conocen el abecedario y que quieren comenzar a leer. Su ritmo, rima y pistas visuales contribuyen a la comprensión del texto. This snowy Step 1 reader gets the Spanish treatment! Jack and Jill and big dog Bill go sledding one snowy winter day. When big dog Bill notices

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis gorgeous picture book follows a helpful marmot working to save a forest recovering after a wildfire. Perfect for teaching children to practice kindness while developing an appreciation for animals and the earth.After a fire leaves the forest smoldering, a determined marmot and her resourceful bird friend set off on a rescue mission in this beautifully illustrated, wordless story.They clear away fallen branches and scorched bushes. They rake and dig and plant new seedlings in the earth. With determination and ingenuity, as the seasons pass, they care for the little trees by making sure they have enough water, protect their branches from the wind and snow, and keep away hungry creatures, until the trees can thrive on their own. With a little time, care, and hope we all can help the earth.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisA moving picture book biography about chef José Andrés, who, along with his World Central Kitchen organization, is sure to inspire kids to help out in their own communities.José Andrés’s love of cooking began as a young boy in Spain as he gathered the wood to make the fire that would cook the paella just right. José loved everything about it: the sizzling olive oil, the mounds of chopped vegetables, and the smell of saffron. When he left home, he realized he wanted to tell stories with food. And tell them he did, creating magic with the seeds of ripe tomatoes and pomegranates and cheese. His dreams grew until they were as big as the stars in the sky. He thought, No one should ever go hungry. I want to help feed the world-- and World Central Kitchen was born.From the earthquake in Haiti to the war in Ukraine and the Covid pandemic, José and his team at World Central Kitchen have been at the frontlines, servi

Read more less

Book SynopsisUna conmovedora oda multicultural a la familia y a lo que significa crear un hogar cuando una niña ayuda a su tía a mudarse de su querido apartamento en Miami. Cuando Fortuna, la tía de Estrella, tiene que despedirse de su antiguo edificio de apartamentos en Miami, The Seaway, para mudarse a una comunidad de vida asistida, Estrella pasa todo el día con ella. Su tía le explica el significado de sus posesiones más importantes, tanto de su cultura cubana como judía, mientras ambas se despiden y exploran un nuevo comienzo para la tía. Un conmovedor libro sobre la tradición, la cultura y la unión familiar, El nuevo hogar de Tía Fortuna explora la herencia cubana y judía sefardí de Estrella y su tía. A través del viaje de su tía, Estrella aprenderá que mientras tengas a tu familia, el hogar se lleva en el corazón.

Read more less

Book SynopsisA tumultuous tale of the student-led 1956 Hungarian revolution set in a colorless post-WWII Budapest—where the magical Danube river has plans of its own—from Sydney Taylor Honor winner Katherine Locke.“A haunting, beautiful read that centers queer Jewish characters.” —BuzzFeedIn the middle of Budapest, there is a river. Csilla knows the river is magic. During WWII, the river kept her family safe when they needed it most--safe from the Holocaust. But that was before the Communists seized power. Before her parents were murdered by the Soviet police. Before Csilla knew things about her father's legacy that she wishes she could forget.Now Csilla keeps her head down, planning her escape from this country that has never loved her the way she loves it. But her carefully laid plans fall to pieces when her parents are unexpectedly, publicly exonerated. As the protests in other countries spur talk of a larger revolutio

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe Little Engine That Could is on the move and visiting all fifty states! Follow along as our favorite little blue train road-trips across the United States of America to lend a helping hand.Choo-choo! The Little Engine That Could is road-tripping through all fifty states and helping out along the way. Next stop: Texas! Explore the Alamo, the Space Center, and so much more with the blue train as she winds her way through the state. She''ll track her way through parks, stop for barbeque, and learn about ranch life!

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe Little Engine That Could is on the move and visiting all fifty states! Follow along as our favorite little blue train road-trips across the United States of America to lend a helping hand.Choo-choo! The Little Engine That Could is road-tripping through all fifty states and helping out along the way. Next stop: Colorado! Explore Denver and more with the blue train as she winds her way through the state. Hike your way through national parks, and track through snow-covered mountaintops.

Read more less

Book SynopsisFrom the Grammy award-winning singer-songwriter, political activist, and feminist icon comes a picture book with purpose, with heart, and with words that sing.Singer-songwriter, activist, feminist, and best-selling author Ani Di Franco has written something for her youngest audience: a picture book that invites young readers to ponder the distinction between outer forms of identity and the inner light of consciousness that is even more central to our being. In her signature folk style, Di Franco weaves a story that incorporates themes of individual power and collective responsibility. First-time illustrator Julia Mathew paints universal scenes of childhood in her family’s native India, glowing with honesty and love. Designed to be read aloud or sung, and pored over, this picture book is rich with meaningful text, poignant illustrations, and a unique message that will resonate with all.Trade Review“The interconnectedness of humanity shines throughout this affirming picture book from singer/songwriter DiFranco....A sweet, lyrical book perfect for bedtime sharing.” –Kirkus"A book that is well worth revisiting, with a comforting tone to the whole project that speaks to love and connection, with others and with your own personhood in the world." –The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books. “Di Franco’s debut picture book offers up a rhyming reverie on selfhood and collective consciousness....presented with an genuine openheartedness that should both intrigue and reassure.” –Publishers Weekly

Read more less

Book SynopsisWhat happens when a child’s favorite packed lunch is met with disparaging comments at the school lunch table?In a classroom of sandwiches, four students stand out with their homemade, culturally-specific lunches. But before they can dig in and enjoy their favorite foods, their lunches are spoiled by scrunched noses and disgusted reactions from their sandwich-eating classmates.   Follow each of the four students as they learn to cope with their first “lunch box moments” in this picture book that encourages empathy and inspires all readers to stand up for their food! Inspired by the “lunch box moments” of four acclaimed chefs, Ray Garcia, Preeti Mistry, Mina Park, and Niki Russ Federman, this heartwarming story reminds us all that one’s food is a reflection of self and an authentic celebration of culture.Trade Review-Skipping Stones Honor Award - Multicultural & International - (2023)-Notable Social Studies Trade Book -- National Council for the Social Studies and Children's Book Council (2023)-Amazon Best Book (2022)"[Lunch From Home] touches on positive portrayals of diversity and inclusiveness and appreciating the connections between food, culture, and family traditions; the four kids in this story are based on real people, each of whom is a professional chef, which adds meaningful weight to their experiences. Bright, naturalistic art vibrantly depicts the kids in the classroom and, of course, their delicious-looking lunches." -- Booklist"[The] meals are lovingly described by Stein and depicted in vibrant color by Li in this epicurean picture book." -- Publishers Weekly"[A] layered tale about peer pressure and cultural pride around the lunch table." -- San Francisco Chronicle

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe geometry of food is explored in New York Times bestselling illustrator Miguel Ordóñez’s newest board book on shapes!Various parts of a meal are formed one by one, piece by piece, in this visual play on the interaction between shapes. If just three simple shapes can combine to create a strawberry, then four shapes make a...? Part guessing game, part visual narrative, young readers will follow along as shapes are added to build new foods, and laugh along as some sneaky critters attempt to take on more than they can chew. With humor, anticipation, and possibility on every page, this board book encourages creativity and proves that anything is possible when taken piece by piece. Trade Review"This generous graphic concept book will benefit all collections." (STARRED REVIEW) -- School Library Journal"A foodie exploration of quantity and design." -- Publisher's Weekly

Read more less

Book SynopsisPut bravery, kindness, and creativity into action in this gorgeous gratitude journal by New York Times best-selling author-illustrator Jessica Hische!Following up Tomorrow I’ll Be Brave and Tomorrow I’ll Be Kind, New York Times best-selling author Jessica Hische returns with a gratitude journal that asks us to acknowledge our own daily acts of bravery, creativity, and kindness. Complete with thoughtful prompts and exercises, gorgeous illustrations, and intimate essays throughout, Brave, Kind, and Grateful is a tender invitation to explore the many meanings that gratitude can hold. Praise for Tomorrow I'll Be BraveJessica Hische, one of the great designers and typographers, now shows herself equally adept at creating gorgeous and immersive images for young readers. This is a joyous burst of color.--Dave Eggers, author of Her Right FootPraise for Tomorrow I'll Be Kind

Read more less

Book SynopsisFrom the bestselling author of the hugely popular Kindergarten, Here I Come! comes an ode to that special teacher in every young child''s life!Children can celebrate the special teacher in their life with this collection of short poems -- one to a page -- that sings the praises of the excellent educator they know and love. From their kindness working with their students to their ability to make the most complicated of topics make sense, this is the perfect gift book for any teacher, written by the author of the bestselling Here I Come! series, D. J. Steinberg.

Read more less

Book SynopsisA little girl makes sure she walks out of the barbershop rocking the fabulous hair style she chooses.Learn the importance of speaking up for what you want through this fun and empowering picture book.When a little girl walks into her local barbershop, she knows she wants the flyest, freshest fade on the block! But there are so many beautiful hairstyles to choose from, and the clients and her mother suggest them all: parts, perms, frizzy fros, dye jobs, locs, and even cornrows!But this little girl stays true to herself and makes sure she leaves the shop feeling on top with the look she picks!Author Shauntay Grant''s sweet, rhyming story encourages young girls to be self-confident and celebrates the many shapes and forms Black hair can take. Through their stunning illustrations, Kitt Thomas is able to bring life and movement to the versatile styles featured in this book.Trade ReviewPraise for MY FADE IS FRESH By Shauntay Grant:★ "A winner-takes-all glimpse of one of childhoods major milestones, taking agency over fashion choices, personality, and style." —School Library Journal, starred review★ "The call and response detailing myriad creative Black hairstyles is both ahumorous romp and a glorious celebration of Black beauty. This fun, powerful, and empowering tale belongs on every shelf." —Kirkus Reviews, starred review★ "Pays tribute to the beautiful versatility of Black hair while emphasizing the importance of a kid staying true to themself. An affirming, communal take on a routine barbershop visit, starring a cool, collected child who knows their mind." —Publisher's Weekly, starred review★ "Thomas’ illustrations are as fresh as the girl’s new look, pulling in vibrant colors and a graffiti-mural style…[T]his book is perfect for kids learning about self-expression, confidence, and decision-making, and the energetic illustrations and humorous story line provide a great reading experience for any child, whether they are familiar with barbershops or not.” —Booklist, starred review" "The “be yourself” message is a perennial favorite of picture books, but this one brings a lively freshness with its joyful cast and exuberant celebration of Black hair. The bouncing rhyme makes it an ideal storytime selection. The dynamic illustrations effortlessly match the text’s energy...his sweet ode to both Black hair and individual choice is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser." —BCCB Reviews“Representation matters, and this book is a reflection of all of us who say YES to ourselves even when people try to steer us different.” —Luvvie Ajayi Jones, New York Times best-selling author of Professional Troublemaker“Shauntay rocks the FRESH verse!” —Derrick Barnes, author of Crown: An Ode To The Fresh Cut

Read more less

Book SynopsisA tall tale inspired by the life and works of Nobel Prize-winning author Toni Morrison.Young Toni knows that her stories are going to change the world. She''s good at spinning a yarn, and in fact, she thinks she might be able to spin her stories into gold if she tries hard enough. Maybe her stories can even lead her to buried treasure? And so Toni sets out on a quest for gold with her siblings, telling tales and looking for a little magic at every turn. But when her quest doesn''t go quite as planned, Toni realizes that it''s all about how you tell a story in order to find the perfect ending. Literary scholar Giselle Anatol and Coretta Scott King honoree Raissa Figueroa have crafted a wholly original tale inspired by the life and works of Nobel Prize-winning author Toni Morrison. Small-Girl Toni and the Quest for Gold honors one of America''s most important writers and is a testament to the power of storytelling.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe powerful story of an eleven-year-old Black boy determined to stand up for his rights, who''s pulled into the action of the 1963 civil rights demonstrations in Birmingham, Alabama.Rufus Jackson Jones is from Birmingham, the place Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. called the most segregated place in the country. A place that in 1963 is full of civil rights activists including Dr. King. The adults are trying to get more attention to their cause--to show that separate is not equal. Rufus’s dad works at the local steel factory, and his mom is a cook at the mill. If they participate in marches, their bosses will fire them. So that’s where the kids decide they will come in. Nobody can fire them. So on a bright May morning in 1963, Rufus and his buddies join thousands of other students to peacefully protest in a local park. There they are met with policemen and firemen who turn their powerful hoses on them, and that’s where Rufus realizes that they are the fire. ATrade Review* “An African American tween finds a way to contribute to his community’s struggle for an end to segregation. . . . Moses takes readers inside the movement that saw its youngest become effective challengers to the segregation status quo. Her narrative seamlessly weaves a personal family story with the larger one of the fight for change. Rufus is an engaging, thoughtful narrator whose voice and perspective ring true as he works to make a difference, even disobeying his mother, who is terrified about what might happen. The love and determination of his community are realistically and richly portrayed. A stirring, cleareyed look at the young people who risked much for social change as they fought for their civil rights.” —Kirkus Reviews, starred review* “Moses (The Legend of Buddy Bush) pays homage to Black children living during the civil rights era whose contributions to the movement were often left undocumented, in this riveting historical fiction volume set in 1963 Birmingham, Ala. . . . Birmingham and its citizens, culture, and struggles are empathetically wrought in this eye-opening novel. With intention, Moses thoughtfully highlights the real-world horrors that Rufus courageously faces—including police, fire hoses, and dogs—and provides levity through his introspective and energetic first-person narration.” —Publishers Weekly, starred review* “Rufus is a keen observer . . . Rufus’s voice is appropriately child-like, even though he, his family, and friends experience overt racism and threats. He is a thoughtful and endearing character, even while suspense is high. The setting and strong sense of community among his Black neighbors are vividly drawn. This compelling and powerful story will resonate with many readers. A first purchase.” —School Library Journal, starred review“Moses leads readers into the scene through the eyes and voice of eleven-year-old Rufus Jackson Jones Jr., rooting these historical events in a memorable family story. Rufus’s mama and stepdaddy tell him and his little sister, Georgia, that they are too young to join the protests, but Rufus does anyway. . . . He wonders where the fire is but realizes that the protesters ‘were the fire,’ a fire the police intend to extinguish, but also a fire igniting the passions of citizens seeking justice. This is a good match with Christopher Paul Curtis’s The Watsons Go to Birmingham — 1963. . . . Moving and memorable . . . and the author’s note is important reading in its own right.” —The Horn Book“Rufus’ evocative first-person narration builds a backdrop of the weeks leading up to the 1963 Children’s Crusade, in which thousands of mostly Black students marched in protest from the Baptist Church toward city hall, where they were met by the city’s racist police force, who resorted to brutal tactics to stop them. Moses packs a lot of details into a trim page count, creating a fully realized family of characters while depicting historical events and the horrific consequences of systems of white supremacy. An author’s note elucidates Moses’ rationale for ending the story on a particular date in 1963 and chronicles the triumphs and horrors of the historical events that happened in the aftermath of this story, preceding the passage of the 1964 Civil Rights Act.” —The Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books

Read more less