Children’s / Teenage fiction: Family and home stories

Book SynopsisA book about love, loss, and the power of music, perfect for fans of Nick Hornby and Fangirl.  Taliah Sahar Abdallat lives and breathes music. Songs have always helped Tal ease the pain of never having known her father. Her mother, born in Jordan and very secretive about her past, won’t say a word about who her dad really was. But when Tal finds a shoebox full of old letters from Julian Oliver—yes, the indie rock star Julian Oliver—she begins to piece the story together.She writes to Julian, but after three years of radio silence, she’s given up hope. Then one day, completely out of the blue, Julian shows up at her doorstep, and Tal doesn’t know whether to be furious or to throw herself into his arms. Before she can decide, he asks her to go on a trip with him to meet her long-estranged family and to say good-bye to his father, her grandfather, who is dying.Getting to know your father after sixteen yea

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisGrace has never had any difficulty pulling off a job, but when things start to go wrong on the Fontaines' biggest heist yet, Grace finds herself breaking more and more of the rules designed to keep her from getting caught .

Read more less

Book SynopsisSasha knows she can be forgetful sometimes, but after weeks of volunteering at the Roxbury Park Dog Shelter with her friends Kim and Taylor, she’s sure she can convince her mom she’s ready to take care of a pet.

Read more less

Book SynopsisAn absolute delight of a madcap story for the young (and young-at-heart) by New York Times bestselling author Neil Gaiman, with equal parts pirates and piranhas, adventure and aliens, oddity and love. I bought the milk, said my father. I walked out of the corner shop, and heard a noise like this: t h u m m t h u m m. I looked up and saw a huge silver disc hovering in the air above Marshall Road.Hullo, I said to myself. That''s not something you see every day. And then something odd happened.Find out just how odd things get in this hilarious story of time travel and breakfast cereal, expertly told by Newbery Medalist and bestselling author Neil Gaiman.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisIn the sixth book in the New York Times–bestselling chapter book series about the childhood of America's favorite housekeeper, Amelia Bedelia and her friends clean up a vacant lot in their neighborhood and build a clubhouse for explorers.Trade ReviewPraise for Amelia Bedelia's First Field Trip: "Parish has turned the clock back, making Amelia Bedelia young again and giving a new generation of readers the opportunity to enjoy her humor and self-confidence." -- Kirkus Reviews

Read more less

Book SynopsisIn the ninth chapter book in the New York Times–bestselling series, Amelia Bedelia and her friends at school explore different jobs and careers and think about what they want to be when they grow up!Trade Review"Parish has turned the clock back, making Amelia Bedelia young again and giving a new generation of readers the opportunity to enjoy her humor and self-confidence." -- Kirkus Reviews

Read more less

Book SynopsisIn the ninth chapter book in the New York Times-bestselling series, Amelia Bedelia and her friends at school explore different jobs and careers and think about what they want to be when they grow up! Amelia Bedelia is especially curious about her own father’s line of work. If he spends the day pitching to a client, does that mean he plays a lot of baseball?The Amelia Bedelia chapter books star Amelia Bedelia as a young girl and feature funny family and friendship stories just right for fans of Judy Moody and Ivy + Bean. The Amelia Bedelia books have sold more than 35 million copies since we first met the iconic character in 1963!

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisFrom beloved and bestselling author Lauren Myracle comes the emotional conclusion to the Wishing Day trilogy, perfect for fans of Kate DiCamillo and Ingrid Law.Now that her sisters Natasha and Darya have had their turn, Ava Blok finally gets her Wishing Day.Trade ReviewLayered in time, the narrative includes flashbacks revealing a girl’s experiences during the previous generation, as well as a climactic time-travel sequence that is pivotal in bringing the series to its satisfying conclusion. — Booklist Online “This is Myracle’s narrative sweet spot.” — Booklist on Wishing Day “This unique coming-of-age story belongs in all middle grade collections.” — School Library Journal “Heart! Humor! Sisterhood! Magic! Myracle’s new book has it all. My three wishes? World peace and two more Wishing Day novels.” — Sarah Mlynowski, New York Times bestselling author of the Whatever After series and coauthor of Upside Down Magic “Grounded firmly in present-day middle school life, this has just enough magic to be unsettling and keep readers engaged. Natasha and her sisters, pretty Darya and creative Ava, are clearly drawn, believable characters...readers will be eager to see where her story goes.” — Kirkus Reviews “Lauren Myracle’s Wishing Day is pure magic! A delightful read from start to finish.” — Lisa Greenwald, author of Pink & Green is the New Black

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe picture book debut by Katherine Hannigan, the award-winning, bestselling author of Ida B, introduces the effervescent Gwendolyn Grace, an alligator with a new sibling and only one thing on her mind—having fun! Pitch-perfect and a great choice for fans of Pete the Cat and the Pigeon books by Mo Willems.Gwendolyn Grace, a preschool alligator in a pink tutu, wants to play. But her mother insists that she pipe down, because the baby is trying to sleep. Gwendolyn Grace can't quite believe it, and in this funny call-and-response, all dialogue and action picture book, she questions her mother relentlessly about what is allowed (not much) and not allowed (a lot). It all ends happily, though, when Mom, baby, and Gwendolyn Grace play a noisy game together. Lots of drama, lots of noise, and lots of funny moments make this picture book debut an ideal choice for story times and for families with new siblings.

Read more less

Book SynopsisA breathtaking debut brings us the unforgettable story of a small-town love, big dreams, and family drama.Silas Hart has seriously shaken up Westlin Beck's small-town life. Brand-new to town, Silas is different from the guys in Green Lake. He's curious, poetic, philosophical, maddening—and really, really cute. But Silas has a sister—and she has a secret. And West has a boyfriend. And life in Green Lake is about to change forever.Truest is a stunning, addictive debut. Romantic, fun, tender, and satisfying, it asks as many questions as it answers. Perfect for fans of The Fault in Our Stars and Ten Things We Did (and Probably Shouldn't Have).

Read more less

Book SynopsisGo to Sleep, Monster! is a funny and surprising twist on the typical monster-under-your-bed story.Getting George to sleep is a nightmare. But getting a monster to sleep That's an adventure.This is the first book written and illustrated by the bestselling artist of the Terrible Two series, Kevin Cornell.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe Berenstain Bears win big for their family in this exciting addition to the classic New York Times bestselling series.From passing the ball to scoring goals, there''s enough excitement on the soccer field to fill a sunny afternoon! But when Mama starts getting too involved, it''s up to the cubs to remind her what playing soccer is really all about.The Berenstain Bears: We Love Soccer! is a Level One I Can Read book, which means it''s perfect for children learning to sound out words and sentences. Whether shared at home or in a classroom, the short sentences, familiar words, and simple concepts of Level One books support success for children eager to start reading on their own.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisTrade Review"A well-crafted blend of realism and fantasy." -- School Library Journal (starred review) "[A] lyrical story of love and loss... The way the sisters fight and love in equal measure, as well as their basic need for one another, rings poignantly true in this touching and heartwarming story, which contains a 'tiny bit of magic, right here in the real world.'" -- Booklist (starred review) "Haydu makes skilled use of her story's fantastical overlay to create a haunting narrative about the ways family members can fail-but also support-each other." -- Publishers Weekly "Tender, wise, and heartbreakingly lovely, this story is as brilliant as a stolen star, and every bit as magical. Prepare to be enchanted." -- Katherine Applegate, Newbery-award winning author of The One and Only Ivan "A gorgeous, profound, deeply felt book that lovingly explores intricate sibling relationships, the crushing weight of family secrets, and the delicate magic of hope. Rules for Stealing Stars is sublime." -- Anne Ursu, author of Breadcrumbs and The Real Boy "Silly and her sisters are flesh-and-bone characters; they gripped me by my very heart and pulled me into their tense and mysterious family story. With beguiling moments of magical realism and engaging turns of phrase, Corey Ann Haydu has crafted a glowing middle grade debut." -- Leslie Connor, award-winning author of Waiting for Normal and Crunch

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisFeather, Flap, and Spike are on the hunt for the perfect pumpkin to decorate in this sweet story about autumn fun.Spike thinks all the pumpkins they find are perfect, indeed: for juggling, leaping over, and bowling! These silly siblings learn one way a squished pumpkin can still be perfect—for making pumpkin pie!

Read more less

Book SynopsisTrade ReviewLots of word repetition combined with a simple but enjoyable plot make this an essential purchase for most beginning-to-read collections. — School Library Journal

Read more less

Book SynopsisBut Nico can never admit what she herself feels: relief at finally being free of Sarah’s daily cruelties.Then the best and worst thing happens: four years later, after dozens of false leads, Sarah is found.But this girl is much changed from the one Nico knew.Trade Review"Busby has skillfully constructed a plot with enough suspenseful twists to keep readers on their toes from start to finish. An unusual, captivating mystery." -- Kirkus Reviews "Busby's tense mystery alternates between Nico and Sarah's points of view, using the tactic of an unreliable narrator to great effect while exploring how tragedy can alter every detail of a family's existence. A final twist leads to a surprising and utterly satisfying conclusion." -- Publishers Weekly "With compelling, memorable storytelling, Busby captures the complicated and often fraught relationship between siblings, especially in the aftermath of family trauma. Eerie and evocative, this thriller will likely inspire return visits to pick up on previously missed clues, and plenty of plot twists will keep readers guessing. -- Booklist "Busby tackles a disturbing theme with aplomb, deftly leaving the reader both disquieted and superbly satisfied. This is perfect for mystery lovers and sophisticated readers who will love a double a twist within a twist." -- Voice of Youth Advocates (VOYA) "Readers who enjoy the mystery of how...a bait and switch might play out won't be disappointed." -- Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

Read more less

Book SynopsisTrade Review“The banter and quips bouncing around among these classmates and friends energize the story, which reinforces the importance of recognizing one’s limits, learning how to both take and give advice, and knowing how to be a good friend.” -- Publishers Weekly

Read more less

Book SynopsisPerfect for fans of The Cupcake Diaries and The Babysitters Club, this new series is about four best friends who are confidentially yours when writing their middle school newspaper's advice column.Vanessa Jackson has style to spare and an amazing ability to rock any look.

Read more less

Book SynopsisGrab your ol' flip-flops and your sunblock, too, for this fun-in-the-sun story told to the tune of the debut original song by Lennon and Maisy Stella, stars of the hit ABC show Nashville.Head to www.harpercollinschildrens.com/inthewaves to listen and sing along as the girls gather their boogie boards and sip homemade lemonade.With a sweet surprise ending, this story will delight readers young and old, and with photos of the girls from years past, this picture book keepsake is the perfect present for any Lennon and Maisy fan.

Read more less

Book SynopsisA raw and heartbreaking story about addiction and recovery that will leave readers breathless. —Kathleen Glasgow, New York Times bestselling author of Girl in PiecesClaire Needell’s evocative novel, perfect for fans of The Girl on the Train, explores the risks of substance abuse as well as what it means to take control of your life when it seems like the only path forward is the one that will take all of your courage. Marcelle is clean and sober, attending a tough-love version of after-school rehab, and barely hanging out with her user friends. But one night she gets a text from her best friend, Hannah, asking Marcelle to cover for her.The next morning, Hannah is missing. Marcelle was the last one to hear from her...and now she’s lying to everyone—about the text, and more.How long can Marcelle go on before she admits to herself what she has to do? If she comes clean, can she save Han

Read more less

Book SynopsisThere is more to Thanksgiving than a turkey and trimmings, this funny and sweet family classic reminds us.Thanksgiving is always a big day at the Tappletons''. But this Thanksgiving each task is interrupted by calamity and hilarity: first the turkey slips away . . . then the bakery is sold out . . . and so on, until Uncle Fritz and Grandfather Tappleton despair of ever eating dinner at all!It''s not until Grandmother Tappleton reminds everyone, There is more to Thanksgiving than a turkey and trimmings, that the Tappletons begin to improvise . . . and end up enjoying a most unusual holiday feast.Delicious art adds to the merriment of this warm, contemporary tale whose mirth and message readers of all ages will savor. 

Read more less

Book SynopsisMeet the girl who ABSOLUTELY EVERYONE is trying to avoid! The completely unreliable and totally irrepressible Ivy Pocket must orchestrate a most daring and brilliant rescue in the wickedly funny conclusion to the Ivy Pocket trilogy. Neil Gaiman meets Lemony Snicket and the Series of Unfortunate Events in this hilarious series that the Huffington Post called “a must-read.” Perfect for middle school readers!Since she came into possession of the Clock Diamond, Ivy Pocket has been chased, tricked, kidnapped, locked in an institution, and subjected to a truly terrible set of adoptive parents. Luckily, Ivy Pocket always lands on her feet—having all the natural instincts of a frightened feline. With the Clock Diamond in hand, she hurries to rescue her best friend, Rebecca, who is being held prisoner in a parallel world. But Ivy Pocket has fallen ill, there’s a man in a white suit following her everywhere, and the Butterfields

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe fun of Splat the Cat continues in New York Times bestselling author-artist Rob Scotton''s paper-over-board edition of Scaredy-Cat, Splat! It''s Halloween, and Splat is determined to be the scariest cat in the class. Unfortunately, he''s just too much of a scaredy-cat. He''s afraid of a little spider, and everyone says his costume looks more silly than scary. And when Mrs. Wimpydimple tells a ghost story in the dark, Splat gets so frightened that he tips over his jack-o''-lantern. But when the lights go back on, the entire class is scared silly by a small, black, furry creature with a big pumpkin head. Whooooo can it be?

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisNew York Times bestselling author Lisa Papademetriou delivers her most fantastical, emotional story yet in this tale of a young girl’s journey into her dreams to save her brother from the darkness that surrounds him. Perfect for fans of A Wrinkle in Time, The Phantom Tollbooth, and Echo. Every night, your sleeping body stays in your bed, while the you of you travels deep beneath the earth to ride the complex rails of the Dreamway....Stella Clay thought it was just another ordinary day at her drab gray school. Then her twin brother, Cole, is attacked by a shadowy creature on their way home, and Stella’s world turns positively peculiar. Suddenly, her brother seems different, almost dimmer, like a candle about to flicker out. And then a talking mouse shows up in her bedroom. Stella discovers that the real Cole has been taken prisoner in the Dreamway. Determined to find him, she sets ou

Read more less

Book SynopsisBestseller and author of the popular middle grade series Confectionately Yours Lisa Papademetriou is back with a magical, page-turning adventure for readers of all ages—a touching tale about destiny and the invisible threads that link us all, ultimately, to one another.Kai and Leila are both finally having an adventure. For Leila, that means a globe-crossing journey to visit family in Pakistan for the summer; for Kai, it means being stuck with her crazy great-aunt in Texas while her mom looks for a job. In each of their bedrooms, they discover a copy of a blank, old book called The Exquisite Corpse. Kai writes three words on the first page—and suddenly, they magically appear in Leila''s copy on the other side of the planet. Kai''s words are soon followed by line after line of the long-ago, romantic tale of Ralph T. Flabbergast and his forever-love, Edwina Pickle. As the two take turns writing, the tale unfolds, connecting both girls to e

Read more less