Children’s / Teenage fiction: Family and home stories

Book SynopsisTrade Review"Gentle, fully fleshed characters . . . are lovingly drawn in this long tale of healing . . . her [Lydia's] poignant tale is engaging and uplifting. An almost-orphan and a rescue dog share lots of heart in a winsome coming-of-age story. " — Kirkus Reviews "What stands out is the narrative’s essential kindness, as Lydia heals and rediscovers the meaning of home and family." — Publishers Weekly (starred review) "Beautifully woven story lines and characters mesh together as Lydia, Guffer, the goats, and her family all start to heal from the inside out. Connor . . . has an innate ability to broach difficult subjects with gentleness, and the myriad strong female characters will be embraced by readers seeking heroines to cheer for." — School Library Journal (starred review) "A dreamy, introspective story [that] explores grief and family. Lydia’s journey is nicely paralleled in the travails of the rescue dog also recently added to the household, and the apt comparisons are sure to spark plenty of discussion. Recommended for children’s collections where realistic fiction is in demand." — Booklist “A small masterpiece. Every page offers something to cherish—a new thought, a wry chuckle, a tender sigh of sorrow or joy. Lydia’s story is comforting yet never comfortable. Leslie Connor is a writing goddess!” — Tricia Springstubb, author of Moonpenny Island and Every Single Second “Connor gives us a resilient heroine as well as insightful commentary on love and joy, in addition to the inherent injustices of life; a heroine whose internal strength and subtle emotional growth will engage readers and encourage them to delve into larger questions.” — Padma Venkatraman, author of The Bridge Home, the 2019 Middle School Global Read Aloud “A sensitive, heart-forward look at the way families take care of each other, the way dogs take care of their families, and the way love takes care of us all. Authentic and artful, A Home for Goddesses and Dogs is easy to sink in and impossible to forget.” — Corey Ann Haydu, author of Rules for Stealing Stars and Eventown “Leslie Connor is one of my FAVORITE middle grade authors and yet again, she finds a way with her words straight to your heart and somehow leaves you crying with a smile on your face. Please do yourself a [favor] and read this, share this, and then read it again< .”< — Nichole Cousins, booksellers at White Birch Books (North Conway, NH) “I cried such happy tears at the end. The women and dogs in this story are so wonderful, I want to live in their home, spend time with them, love them. This is a story of a young girl living with her aunt and her aunt's wife on a farm in Vermont. During the winter, with dogs and so much love. Perfect.”? — Julie (RBB Staff)

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Book SynopsisThe third book in the funny and joyful series Katherine Applegate has called “tender and important,” by National Book Award finalist Elana K.

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Book SynopsisThe author of The Bone Witch kicks off an epic YA fantasy duology perfect for fans of Furyborn.Generations of twin goddesses have long ruled Aeon—until one sister’s betrayal split their world in two.Trade Review“The Never Tilting World is what happens when Garth Nix meets Mad Max: Fury Road. It’s a dark, lovely, and even timely look at a world that’s fallen apart, with just the right blend of epic action and twisted magic.” — Tara Sim, author of Timekeeper “Visually vivid, magical, and exhilarating.” — Kirkus Reviews “Dark and richly drawn, The Never Tilting World is a lavish fantasy about sisterhood, sacrifice, and finding strength in a treacherous world. Chupeco’s writing is lushly descriptive, transporting me to the brink of the abyss; while reading it, I could swear the world stood still.” — Heidi Heilig, author of For a Muse of Fire “Multiple plot twists and a breathlessly cinematic tone will attract fantasy and romance fans alike.” — Booklist “Complex, brutal, romantic, and terrifying. With a phenomenal cast of characters who stick to your bones and vivid worldbuilding that shows up in your dreams, this is a book that demands to be experienced.” — Dahlia Adler, author of Under the Lights and editor of His Hideous Heart “This rich fantasy spotlights power’s corruptive influence, love’s redemptive nature, and the urgent concerns of climate change. The tale’s scope and creativity astound.” — Publishers Weekly "A vivid, exquisitely realized, and compellingly unique YA fantasy." — Tor.com “A great choice for fantasy shelves.” — School Library Journal

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Book SynopsisThe author of The Bone Witch kicks off an epic YA fantasy duology perfect for fans of Furyborn.Generations of twin goddesses have long ruled Aeon—until one sister’s betrayal split their world in two.Trade Review“The Never Tilting World is what happens when Garth Nix meets Mad Max: Fury Road. It’s a dark, lovely, and even timely look at a world that’s fallen apart, with just the right blend of epic action and twisted magic.” — Tara Sim, author of Timekeeper “Visually vivid, magical, and exhilarating.” — Kirkus Reviews “Dark and richly drawn, The Never Tilting World is a lavish fantasy about sisterhood, sacrifice, and finding strength in a treacherous world. Chupeco’s writing is lushly descriptive, transporting me to the brink of the abyss; while reading it, I could swear the world stood still.” — Heidi Heilig, author of For a Muse of Fire “Multiple plot twists and a breathlessly cinematic tone will attract fantasy and romance fans alike.” — Booklist “Complex, brutal, romantic, and terrifying. With a phenomenal cast of characters who stick to your bones and vivid worldbuilding that shows up in your dreams, this is a book that demands to be experienced.” — Dahlia Adler, author of Under the Lights and editor of His Hideous Heart “This rich fantasy spotlights power’s corruptive influence, love’s redemptive nature, and the urgent concerns of climate change. The tale’s scope and creativity astound.” — Publishers Weekly "A vivid, exquisitely realized, and compellingly unique YA fantasy." — Tor.com “A great choice for fantasy shelves.” — School Library Journal

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Book SynopsisFrom the author of The Bone Witch, the thrilling sequel to The Never Tilting World spins elemental magic, fierce sisterhood, and vast, incredible landscapes into a YA fantasy epic perfect for fans of Leigh Bardugo and Sabaa Tahir.Trade ReviewPraise for The Never Tilting World: “The Never Tilting World is what happens when Garth Nix meets Mad Max: Fury Road . It’s a dark, lovely, and even timely look at a world that’s fallen apart, with just the right blend of epic action and twisted magic.” — Tara Sim, author of Timekeeper “Visually vivid, magical, and exhilarating.” — Kirkus Reviews “Dark and richly drawn, The Never Tilting World is a lavish fantasy about sisterhood, sacrifice, and finding strength in a treacherous world. Chupeco’s writing is lushly descriptive, transporting me to the brink of the abyss; while reading it, I could swear the world stood still.” — Heidi Heilig, author of For a Muse of Fire “Multiple plot twists and a breathlessly cinematic tone will attract fantasy and romance fans alike.” — Booklist “Complex, brutal, romantic, and terrifying. With a phenomenal cast of characters who stick to your bones and vivid worldbuilding that shows up in your dreams, this is a book that demands to be experienced.” — Dahlia Adler, author of Under the Lights and editor of His Hideous Heart “This rich fantasy spotlights power’s corruptive influence, love’s redemptive nature, and the urgent concerns of climate change. The tale’s scope and creativity astound.” — Publishers Weekly “A great choice for fantasy shelves.” — School Library Journal

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Book SynopsisFrom the author of The Bone Witch, the thrilling sequel to The Never Tilting World spins elemental magic, fierce sisterhood, and vast, incredible landscapes into a YA fantasy epic perfect for fans of Leigh Bardugo and Sabaa Tahir.Trade ReviewPraise for The Never Tilting World: “The Never Tilting World is what happens when Garth Nix meets Mad Max: Fury Road . It’s a dark, lovely, and even timely look at a world that’s fallen apart, with just the right blend of epic action and twisted magic.” — Tara Sim, author of Timekeeper “Visually vivid, magical, and exhilarating.” — Kirkus Reviews “Dark and richly drawn, The Never Tilting World is a lavish fantasy about sisterhood, sacrifice, and finding strength in a treacherous world. Chupeco’s writing is lushly descriptive, transporting me to the brink of the abyss; while reading it, I could swear the world stood still.” — Heidi Heilig, author of For a Muse of Fire “Multiple plot twists and a breathlessly cinematic tone will attract fantasy and romance fans alike.” — Booklist “Complex, brutal, romantic, and terrifying. With a phenomenal cast of characters who stick to your bones and vivid worldbuilding that shows up in your dreams, this is a book that demands to be experienced.” — Dahlia Adler, author of Under the Lights and editor of His Hideous Heart “This rich fantasy spotlights power’s corruptive influence, love’s redemptive nature, and the urgent concerns of climate change. The tale’s scope and creativity astound.” — Publishers Weekly “A great choice for fantasy shelves.” — School Library Journal

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Book SynopsisFrom the critically acclaimed author of Mascot comes this heartfelt novel, perfect for fans of John David Anderson and Cammie McGovern, about a girl searching for the meaning of family.Lola and Momma have always been a team of two. It hasn’t always been easy for Lola, being one of the only kids she knows with just one parent around. And lately she’s been feeling incomplete, like there’s a part of herself that she can’t know until she knows her dad.But what will happen—to Lola, to Momma, to their team of two—if she finds him?

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Book SynopsisTrade Review"A swimming pool and a young swimmer create watery magic together. Davies’ lighthearted, lively poetry describes the singular joy of an afternoon at the neighborhood pool in this celebration of underwater swimming and splashing. Sánchez’s illustrations capture the way sunlight ripples through water and convey the blissful freedom of weightlessness, diving to the bottom of an imaginary ocean world and rocketing to the top amid bubbles. The exuberant sense of being purely in the moment is delightful." — Kirkus Reviews (starred review) "Davies’ cascading lines of verse text read aloud beautifully, rewarding listeners with wordplay [and leave] space for Sánchez’s effervescent illustrations to work their magic. The imaginative underwater scenes are particularly fine. This high-spirited picture book celebrates the joy in swimming. A mesmerizing book that conjures up a summer day." — Booklist (starred review) "Descriptive verse text with a scribble of clouds capture a bubble-filled watery world. It’s easy for swimmers to dream and imagine the pool filled with saltwater depths of treasure. VERDICT A recommended first purchase for all libraries, this title will interest readers who love the world underwater, or those who recognize the freedom and confidence borne of immersive play." — School Library Journal (starred review) "Every turquoise-covered page evokes the sound of splashes, excited squeals, and squeaky inflatables familiar to frequent swimmers. An ebullient ode to a simple summertime joy that will surely encourage both novice and adventurous swimmers to make a splash of their own." — Horn Book Magazine

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Book SynopsisThe third book in the hilarious middle-grade series about Mya, the cowgirl-loving fourth grader—perfect for fans of Ramona the Pest and Clementine.Trade Review“Allen lassoes another terrific tale for the Magnificent Mya Tibbs series.” — Kirkus Reviews Praise for THE MAGNIFICENT MYA TIBBS: THE WALL OF FAME GAME: “Hilarious...with a charming cast of characters that readers will be eager to follow.” — Kirkus Reviews Praise for THE MAGNIFICENT MYA TIBBS: SPIRIT WEEK SHOWDOWN: “Nuanced depictions of friendship coupled with larger-than-life and fully three-dimensional characters make this delightful book at once thoughtful and a riot to read.” — Kirkus Reviews (starred review) Praise for THE MAGNIFICENT MYA TIBBS: SPIRIT WEEK SHOWDOWN: “Spunky, sweet hearted, and full of fun, Mya will have readers everywhere yelling ‘Yee-haw’!” — Varian Johnson, author of The Great Greene Heist Praise for THE MAGNIFICENT MYA TIBBS: SPIRIT WEEK SHOWDOWN: “[A] winning series debut.” — Booklist Praise for THE MAGNIFICENT MYA TIBBS: SPIRIT WEEK SHOWDOWN: “Endearing” — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books Praise for THE MAGNIFICENT MYA TIBBS: SPIRIT WEEK SHOWDOWN: “A big-hearted, high-spirited, cowboy-booted heroine…The story’s vivid small-town setting and memorable characters will have many readers looking forward to more Mya.” — Publishers Weekly Praise for THE MAGNIFICENT MYA TIBBS: SPIRIT WEEK SHOWDOWN: “In Spirit Week Showdown, earnest Mya, with her Texas charm and mounting friendship problems, kept me turning the pages all the way to the boo-yang cool finale. Trust me: you’ll want all your friends to read this one!” — Tracey Baptiste, author of The Jumbies, a School Library Journal selection Praise for THE LAURA LINE: “This is a lively approach to an issue that’s come up recently in the news...and the historical aspect could help readers consider their own family lore that may not have made its way into written accounts.” — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books Praise for THE LAURA LINE: “Laura Dyson’s sweet, sassy voice draws you into this delightful story of self-discovery and acceptance, unwavering friendship and the deep roots of one amazing family.” — Donna Gephart, author of Olivia Bean, Trivia Queen Praise for THE LAURA LINE: “Crystal Allen shows us how our relatives, even the ones we’ve never met, sometimes have a way of gently weaving a path to exactly who we’re meant to be, our truest and best self.” — Kathryn Fitzmaurice, author of The Year the Swallows Came Early Praise for HOW LAMAR’S BAD PRANK WON A BUBBA-SIZED TROPHY: “Under all the braggadocio is a boy with a big heart, and from the first sentence Lamar will have readers hooked.” — Publishers Weekly (starred review) Praise for HOW LAMAR’S BAD PRANK WON A BUBBA-SIZED TROPHY: “This stands out for its unusual setting and smooth integration of friendship and family concerns. ” — Kirkus Reviews Praise for HOW LAMAR’S BAD PRANK WON A BUBBA-SIZED TROPHY: “The powerful mix of sibling rivalry, revenge, and hard-won redemption strengthens the perennial appeal of the naïve-underdog-makes-good plot; readers will come for the laughs and stay for the laughs.” — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books Praise for HOW LAMAR’S BAD PRANK WON A BUBBA-SIZED TROPHY: “The tween book world has a new hero-Lamar Washington-as well as a brilliant new author who’s bound to win a Bubba-sized trophy herself!” — Neal Shusterman, author of The Schwa Was Here and Challenger Deep

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Book SynopsisTrade Review“Méndez and Alizadeh create a balance between the abstract and concrete by letting the child imagine the future but with Abuela’s guidance and support. A sweet read to share with loved ones.” — Kirkus Reviews (starred review) “This is a prayer to personal power, a license to dream big, and permission to keep moving forward, beyond proscribed or limiting roles…Turning a common question of childhood into a substantive quest, this imaginative set of plans will have other children charting their own course through the stars.” — School Library Journal

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Book SynopsisThe UK''s #1 bestselling children''s author, David Walliams, is back with a fantastical tale of myth and legend, good and evil, and one small boy on a quest to save the world—chock-full of Walliams’s unmistakable humor and perfect for fans of Jeff Kinney and Roald Dahl.The kingdom has fallen into darkness.Prince Alfred has never left the safety of Buckingham Palace. But there are strange goings on inside the palace walls—and Alfred’s life is about to change forever.In the dead of night something terrible stalks the corridors. When Alfred’s beloved mother the queen is dragged off to the Tower of London, the boy must summon all his courage to embark on an epic quest to save her… and the entire world.

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Book SynopsisAmerican Royals meets The Winner’s Curse in the first book of a dazzling duology from New York Times bestselling author Brittany Cavallaro about revolution, love, and friendship in a reimagined American monarchy. The year is 1893, and war is brewing in the First American Kingdom. But Claire Emerson has a bigger problem. Claire’s father is a sought-after inventor, but he believes his genius is a gift granted to him by his daughter’s touch, so he keeps Claire under his control.As their province prepares for war, Claire plans to escape, even as her best friend, Beatrix, tries to convince her to stay and help with the growing resistance movement that wants to see a woman on the throne. When her father’s weapon fails to fire on the World’s Fair’s opening day, Claire is taken captive by Governor Remy Duchamp, St. Cloud’s young, untried ruler. Remy believes that

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Book SynopsisTrade ReviewPraise for The Secret of Zoone: “Heartwarming and enchanting, Födi’s vocabulary-stretching portal fantasy is a great fit for readers who want something sweet and fun.” — ALA Booklist “Full of colorful characters. A promising start for a new series.” — Kirkus Reviews “The world-building is detailed and rich; readers will want to travel the tracks to visit different worlds and stroll the magical market.” — School Library Journal

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Book SynopsisFeaturing a failed young wizard and her cleanup crew, this delightfully dysfunctional middle grade fantasy is an imaginative twist on magic school that’s perfect for fans of Nevermoor and The School for Good and Evil.Cara Moone is a wizard—but she’s basically flunked out of wizard school.Trade Review“Snarky and resilient, Cara is a memorable heroine with an engaging narrative voice and a unique perspective.” — Publishers Weekly Praise for The Secret of Zoone: “Heartwarming and enchanting, Födi’s vocabulary-stretching portal fantasy is a great fit for readers who want something sweet and fun.” — ALA Booklist “Full of colorful characters. A promising start for a new series.” — Kirkus Reviews “The world-building is detailed and rich; readers will want to travel the tracks to visit different worlds and stroll the magical market.” — School Library Journal “Surprising revelations and plenty of humor keep the story fresh, and the good-vs.-evil plotline is nicely nuanced. A spirited and magical underdog story.” — Kirkus Reviews "An energetic and exciting story for any reader who loves Harry Potter and enjoys the idea of attending wizarding school." — School Library Journal

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Book SynopsisFrom the critically acclaimed author of Train I Ride and Echo’s Sister comes a moving story of friendship between two girls looking for some happiness in a world that can be a little cruel. Perfect for fans of Rebecca Stead, Ali Standish, and Erin Entrada Kelly.Twelve-year-old Juillet is preparing for the worst summer ever. She and her mom are staying in the seaside neighborhood of Ocean Park, California, for a month, where her mom will be working at the local hospital and Juillet will be on her own, like always.Her dad is off in Europe with his new girlfriend, and her best friend, Fern . . . well, Juiller isn’t allowed to talk to Fern anymore. Fern took the blame for Juillet’s goth-girl clothes and “not-real” fears, like sharks and rip currents and the number three.Then Juillet meets Summer, a local surfer girl who knows the coolest people and places around town. With free-spirited and adventurous

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Book SynopsisTrade Review“Deeply felt. . .moving and satisfying, and the book ends with a feeling of revelation and rebirth. . .and an utterly perfect final sentence.” — New York Times Book Review “A shimmering novel that touches on human frailty, the consolations of art, and the mysteries of growing up.” — Wall Street Journal “Captured on the threshold of puberty’s tumultuous changes, Amelia and Casey quiver with hope and longing. Like a Chinese brush painting made of words, this short novel distills the slow-building impatience of early adolescence down to its essence—not much happens, yet everything does. . . . Spare, luminous, lovely.” — Kirkus Reviews (starred review) “Henkes’s profound understanding of the adolescent heart and mind is evident . . . In economic prose, Henkes evokes the complexity of his characters’ emotions and relationships, and offers a feel-good resolution.” — Publishers Weekly (starred review) “In that confusing space between childhood and adulthood, Amelia finds comfort in talking to her beloved stuffed lamb even as she experiences her first crush and wonders ‘what kind of woman she would be when she grew up.’ The week’s cheerlessness morphs into something complex and important.” — Horn Book (starred review) “A stunning realistic fiction novel, Amelia’s story is woven tightly with themes of friendship, grief, and love. In his signature classic style, Henkes perfectly captures the hope paramount to the youthful heart, while honoring difficult themes. . . [A] smooth, compact, emotionally nuanced novel with relatable characters.” — School Library Journal (starred review) “Amelia is a winning character: a dreamy, old soul who perfectly displays the naivety and the wisdom of growing up. Humor and lyrical language buoy the . . . narrative. Henkes’s latest story is, like most life changes, quiet yet momentous.” — ALA Booklist “Henkes writes in still pools with occasional ripples, a clarity of approach that gives his writing immediacy along with precision. . .Readers will sympathize with [Amelia] as she negotiates some complicated human dynamics and comes out with more understanding.” — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books “Henkes is the master of quiet yet potent observation, and this slender novel sensitively maps the heart of a girl on the cusp of ‘whatever was still to come.’” — Cleveland Plain Dealer

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Book SynopsisTrade Review“Deeply felt. . .moving and satisfying, and the book ends with a feeling of revelation and rebirth. . .and an utterly perfect final sentence.” — New York Times Book Review “A shimmering novel that touches on human frailty, the consolations of art, and the mysteries of growing up.” — Wall Street Journal “Captured on the threshold of puberty’s tumultuous changes, Amelia and Casey quiver with hope and longing. Like a Chinese brush painting made of words, this short novel distills the slow-building impatience of early adolescence down to its essence—not much happens, yet everything does. . . . Spare, luminous, lovely.” — Kirkus Reviews (starred review) “Henkes’s profound understanding of the adolescent heart and mind is evident . . . In economic prose, Henkes evokes the complexity of his characters’ emotions and relationships, and offers a feel-good resolution.” — Publishers Weekly (starred review) “In that confusing space between childhood and adulthood, Amelia finds comfort in talking to her beloved stuffed lamb even as she experiences her first crush and wonders ‘what kind of woman she would be when she grew up.’ The week’s cheerlessness morphs into something complex and important.” — Horn Book (starred review) “A stunning realistic fiction novel, Amelia’s story is woven tightly with themes of friendship, grief, and love. In his signature classic style, Henkes perfectly captures the hope paramount to the youthful heart, while honoring difficult themes. . . [A] smooth, compact, emotionally nuanced novel with relatable characters.” — School Library Journal (starred review) “Amelia is a winning character: a dreamy, old soul who perfectly displays the naivety and the wisdom of growing up. Humor and lyrical language buoy the . . . narrative. Henkes’s latest story is, like most life changes, quiet yet momentous.” — ALA Booklist “Henkes writes in still pools with occasional ripples, a clarity of approach that gives his writing immediacy along with precision. . .Readers will sympathize with [Amelia] as she negotiates some complicated human dynamics and comes out with more understanding.” — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books “Henkes is the master of quiet yet potent observation, and this slender novel sensitively maps the heart of a girl on the cusp of ‘whatever was still to come.’” — Cleveland Plain Dealer

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Book SynopsisReaders who love Leslie Connor and Ann M. Martin will adore this story of a citywide scavenger hunt and a girl who learns that family—and weirdness—is relative.Summer Coding CampIncoming 7th graders onlyEight-week session begins June 28This is it, my summer plan.Hoping to ditch two months of chicken coops, kale, and her parents’ antiscreen rules, Mac MacLeod sets out to win a citywide food cart scavenger hunt and the money she needs for the summer coding camp of her dreams.But Mac discovers more than just clues during her cross-city sprint—like how her weird parents might not be the worst thing compared to the circumstances of those around her.With the same humor and hope of her debut novel, Mostly the Honest Truth, Jody J. Little gives readers another spunky, unforgettable

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Book SynopsisBloop, the little green alien, must conquer Earth, and his first step is figuring out who’s in charge.

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Book SynopsisIn her debut middle grade novel—inspired by her family’s history—Christine Day tells the story of a girl who uncovers her family’s secrets—and finds her own Native American identity. So, no matter how curious she might be about her Native American heritage, Edie is sure her family doesn’t have any answers.Trade Review★ “The novel is enlightening and a must-read for anyone interested in issues surrounding identity and adoption. Debut author Day (Upper Skagit) handles family separation in Native America with insight and grace.” — Kirkus Reviews (starred review) ★ “Beyond the mystery, important themes resonate throughout, including cultural identity and what makes a friendship worth keeping. Day’s affecting novel also considers historical truths about how Native Americans have been treated throughout U.S. history, particularly underlining family separations.” — Publishers Weekly (starred review) “I Can Make This Promise manages to be both deeply sad and brightly hopeful, and Edie Green will steal readers’ hearts with her empathy and curious spirit—she certainly stole mine.” — Hayley Chewins, author of The Turnaway Girls “Day’s novel brings an accessible, much-needed perspective about the very real consequences of Indigenous children being taken from their families and Native Nations. The absence of one’s tribal community, loss of culture and lack of connection to relatives have ripple effects for generations.” — Traci Sorell (Cherokee Nation), award-winning author of We Are Grateful: Otsaliheliga “A truly enticing, beautifully written story that delivers a historical reveal at just the right time.” — Betsy Bird, A Fuse #8 Production (SLJ blog) “A glorious novel about friendship, emerging identity, family secrets, and lost culture, Day’s debut, while targeted at 8 to 12-year-olds at grade levels 3 to 7, will resonate with readers of all ages.” — BookTrib

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Book SynopsisTrade Review"This thoughtful, honest sophomore novel invites readers to reckon with life's messy complexities while reassuring them that every ending brings the seeds of new beginnings." — Shelf Awareness This meditative story about a middle school girl’s courageous journey toward healing follows a family as they navigate the complexities of supporting a tween’s life-changing injury. In her second novel, Day offers a heartening glimpse into the immense patience and love required to endure limitations, build strength, and repair damage. An insightful, stirring read about healing and resilience. — Kirkus Reviews (starred review) "Most of Maisie’s tale is compressed into a period of several days over winter break, and as readers share her inner monologue, they’re keenly aware that failure to follow professional advice and accept the support of teachers, family, and friends (who have demonstrably not deserted her) is turning her into her own worst enemy. Day lifts the narrative beyond the tribulations of another angsty tween heroine by offering an eminently reasonable path forward, paved with physical healing, emotional therapy, and reconnection with friends." — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books "A contemplative and emotional story of resilience and reinvention whose dedication sums it up well: 'To anyone who needs a reminder that pain is temporary.'" — Publishers Weekly (starred review) "Day’s contemplative #OwnVoices novel adeptly explores Maisie’s grief and identity, both as a dancer and as a Native American, with the latter organically highlighting variations within Native cultures. An inaugural title of the Native-centered imprint Heartdrum, this finds strength and beauty in life’s quiet moments and opportunity in the unexpected." — Booklist "The story takes place primarily over the course of four days, during which we get to know Maisie’s family uncommonly well through quotidian details and worldview-encompassing conversations; secondary characters, too, are nuanced and vividly drawn. Maisie’s pain is specific to her experience while being relatable to many readers going through big life changes. Her alienation, denial, and despair make her eventual opening up feel cathartic and narratively earned. The Pacific Northwest setting is atmospherically described and indicative of this Native blended family’s formative experiences." — Horn Book Magazine "The Sea in Winter is a refreshing and moving story of grief and healing from one of middle grade’s brightest rising stars." — BookPage (starred review)

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Book SynopsisTrade Review"This thoughtful, honest sophomore novel invites readers to reckon with life's messy complexities while reassuring them that every ending brings the seeds of new beginnings." — Shelf Awareness This meditative story about a middle school girl’s courageous journey toward healing follows a family as they navigate the complexities of supporting a tween’s life-changing injury. In her second novel, Day offers a heartening glimpse into the immense patience and love required to endure limitations, build strength, and repair damage. An insightful, stirring read about healing and resilience. — Kirkus Reviews (starred review) "Most of Maisie’s tale is compressed into a period of several days over winter break, and as readers share her inner monologue, they’re keenly aware that failure to follow professional advice and accept the support of teachers, family, and friends (who have demonstrably not deserted her) is turning her into her own worst enemy. Day lifts the narrative beyond the tribulations of another angsty tween heroine by offering an eminently reasonable path forward, paved with physical healing, emotional therapy, and reconnection with friends." — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books "A contemplative and emotional story of resilience and reinvention whose dedication sums it up well: 'To anyone who needs a reminder that pain is temporary.'" — Publishers Weekly (starred review) "Day’s contemplative #OwnVoices novel adeptly explores Maisie’s grief and identity, both as a dancer and as a Native American, with the latter organically highlighting variations within Native cultures. An inaugural title of the Native-centered imprint Heartdrum, this finds strength and beauty in life’s quiet moments and opportunity in the unexpected." — Booklist "The story takes place primarily over the course of four days, during which we get to know Maisie’s family uncommonly well through quotidian details and worldview-encompassing conversations; secondary characters, too, are nuanced and vividly drawn. Maisie’s pain is specific to her experience while being relatable to many readers going through big life changes. Her alienation, denial, and despair make her eventual opening up feel cathartic and narratively earned. The Pacific Northwest setting is atmospherically described and indicative of this Native blended family’s formative experiences." — Horn Book Magazine "The Sea in Winter is a refreshing and moving story of grief and healing from one of middle grade’s brightest rising stars." — BookPage (starred review)

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Book SynopsisAwesome Man, our favorite superhero, is back, and in this fantastic sequel from New York Times bestselling author Michael Chabon, he must prepare for his greatest threat yet! Awesome Man’s secret identity has stayed safe, and he’s still the coolest superhero around.

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Book SynopsisTrade ReviewPRAISE FOR BOOK 1: TWILIGHT HAUNTINGS "Once again, Sage offers intricate worldbuilding, richly evocative settings, nuanced characters (all have flaws and don't always manifest their good intentions), deftly woven plotting, and wry humor. An unmitigated delight." — Kirkus Reviews (starred review) "Sage has built a fully realized world populated by intriguing characters and terrifying monsters. She skillfully builds tension using plot twists that include friendship and betrayal, good intentions and misunderstandings, fearsome attacks and daring escapes, and family dramas of various sorts. Fans of fantasy and adventure will snap this up and eagerly await the sequel. A first purchase." — School Library Journal (starred review) "In this fast-paced fantasy, first in a duology, Sage (the Septimus Heap series) weaves an engaging tale of constant danger and capricious magic. Sage’s world is inventive and weird. Following multiple viewpoints . . . the overlapping, interweaving narrative allows for a panoramic experience with an almost madcap intensity." — Publishers Weekly "[A] miscommunication-driven goose chase [that is] charming, if sometimes frustrating . . . to watch unfold. This duology opener will surely find fans among readers of Sage’s own popular Septimus Heap books, as well as Patrick Carman’s Land of Elyon series." — Booklist "Sage deftly crafts an endearing and familiar fantasy story, expertly characterizing distinct, extreme personalities. Other appeals include the avoidance of genre stereotypes, age-appropriate horror, and wry humor through dramatic irony. Fantasy fans will highly anticipate the next steps in Alex’s journey in the projected sequel of the Enchanter’s Child duology." — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books

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Book SynopsisA gorgeous, classic gift book about the enduring love between a little girl and her childhood friend, Bear, from popular author Jonathan Stutzman and Caldecott Medal–winning and #1 New York Times bestselling illustrator Dan Santat.Bear is .Trade Review“A special story about a beautiful friendship between a girl and her teddy bear…. Caldecott winner Santat’s digitally rendered illustrations in watercolor pencil explode with character and warmth.... Enthusiastic children will want to share stories about their own favorite cuddles with this sure winner.” — ALA Booklist (starred review) “This has the vintage sweetness of The Velveteen Rabbit and the contemporary heart of Toy Story, and it would make a gentle read in a teddy bear storytime or as a gift—accompanied, of course, by a stuffie for the recipient. ” — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books “In this ode to the timelessness of cherished playthings, a toy bear accompanies a child through myriad experiences…. Will have adults and young readers alike reflecting on the indispensable natures of their own favorite stuffies.” — Kirkus Reviews “Stutzman’s declarative sentences are packed with meaning, which Santat explores through the loving relationship between the characters in his expressive watercolor, pencil, and Photoshop illustrations. The spare text allows for visual creativity… [which] makes the impact of the final surprise reveal all the sweeter, and upon rereading reinforces an appreciation for the larger-than-life presence favorite toys can have in our lives.” — Horn Book Magazine “There’s real poetry in the declamatory, rhythmic text and a lovely, everyday magic in Bear and the child’s easygoing, unconditional connection.” — Publishers Weekly Praise for THE NIGHT IS FOR DARKNESS: “A beautiful bedtime story with a lilting text to lull little ones to sleep.” — School Library Journal “Lovely lilting language [and] soothing reassurances render the night magical and moving home an adventure in this sweetheart of a bedtime tale.” — Kirkus Reviews “Stutzman’s rhyming tribute to the magic of nighttime… feel[s] like a lullaby, delivering a hypnotic effect that will engage young readers while lulling them to sleep.” — ALA Booklist “This offering is couched in reassurance and comfort.” — Publishers Weekly

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Book SynopsisWinner of the Pura Belpré Award!''We need books to break open our hearts, so that we might feel more deeply, so that we might be more human in these unkind times. This is a book doing work of the spirit in a time of darkness.''''sandra Cisneros, author of The House on Mango StreetEfrén Nava''s Amá is his Superwoman''or Soperwoman, named after the delicious Mexican sopes his mother often prepares. Both Amá and Apá work hard all day to provide for the family, making sure Efrén and his younger siblings Max and Mía feel safe and loved. But Efrén worries about his parents; although he''s American-born, his parents are undocumented. His worst nightmare comes true one day when Amá doesn''t return from work and is deported across the border to Tijuana, México. Now more than ever, Efrén must channel his inner Soperboy to help take care of and try to reunite his family.A glossary of Spanish words is included in the back of the book.

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Book SynopsisBestselling authors Amie Kaufman and Ryan Graudin invite readers into a wondrous world where lost things are found, and where two cousins must come face-to-face with the impossible…Whenever Jake and Marisol get together, adventure follows. They have their late Nana to thank for that. Her epic trips and treasure hunts were legendary.With the whole family reuniting for one last summer vacation at Nana’s home, the cousins are prepared for an extraordinary trip of their own. Following a map Nana left behind, Jake and Marisol sneak out to a nearby lighthouse—then accidentally slip into another world! The World Between Blinks is a magical place, where all sorts of lost things and people wind up. Everywhere they turn, the cousins find real mysteries from history and a few they thought were just myths, from pilot Amelia Earhart to the fabled city of Atlantis.But the man who holds the key to Jake and Marisol’s journey

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Book SynopsisBestselling authors Amie Kaufman and Ryan Graudin invite readers back to the wondrous world where lost things are found in this second book of an exciting, fast-paced middle-grade fantasy adventure series. Perfect for fans of Chris Colfer's Land of Stories and Margaret Peterson Haddix's The Missing!When Jake and Marisol return unexpectedly to the World Between Blinks, they find that nothing is as they left it. The Administrator is on an unstoppable mission, ordering his Curators to catalog absolutely everyone and everything as if they're exhibits in a museum. With rebels like Amelia Earhart and Queen Nefertiti facing the threat of their hourglasses of memories being flipped, Jake and Marisol, along with Marisol's big brother, Victor, must locate a mysterious item known as the Rocket. This unknown object is their only chance to defeat the Administrator before everything that makes the World wonderful is lost, in a whole new way....Propelled by a page-turning mystery and plenty of action, this sequel also features fun, interesting facts about history and engaging back matter that helps readers separate fact from fiction!

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Book SynopsisIn the My Baby Loves Christmas board book, celebrate all the lovely things that baby discovers about Christmas.Baby loves candy canes wrapped in bows. This board book, the perfect gift for a new baby, features rhythmic poetry from Jabari Asim and adorable art from Tara Nicole Whitaker.

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Book SynopsisThe perfect Halloween gift for your baby or toddler! With My Baby Loves Halloween, celebrate all the lovely things that Baby discovers about Halloween:Baby loves the crisp autumn air. Baby loves candy...Celebrate all the sweet things that Baby discovers about Halloween.

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Book SynopsisBaby loves kisses and a loving embrace.Baby loves pretty red roses...Celebrate all the lovely things Baby discovers about Valentine's Day!This board book, the perfect gift for a new baby, features rhythmic poetry from Jabari Asim and adorable art from Tara Nicole Whitaker.

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Book SynopsisTrade Review"MacLachlan’s signature short, careful sentences imbue each phrase with significance, creating a lyrical ambiance that draws readers into the close family circle. Especially moving is the depiction of the parents’ love for each other as well as their children as they move forward into their newly shared truth." — Publishers Weekly "With simple, repetitive language, much of it offered as dialogue, MacLachlan's latest is perfect for readers just transitioning into chapter books with slightly more narrative depth. Familial concern about honesty gives the twins' questions weight, and a resolution about adoption that ties up happily works well for the target audience. A sweet look at what really makes for a family." — Booklist "MacLachlan examines the question 'What makes a family?' in her latest middle grade book. MacLachlan's lyrical writing emphasizes that love is what makes a family. This short novel is immersed in love—between friends, within a married couple, between siblings, parents and their children, and even in the devotion for a favorite teacher . . . VERDICT With a warm message and gorgeous prose, this story grounded in fact and love . . . " — School Library Journal Praise for WONDROUS REX: "MacLachlan spins from simple words an enigmatic, gentle . . . tale. Sweetly magical." — Kirkus Reviews "A charmed (and charming) dog, a language-loving girl, and an innate aunt-niece bond are among the alluring threads that MacLachlan (Dream Within a Dream) deftly weaves into this taut novel. MacLachlan again proves her gift for shaping endearing and credible characters—even a magical canine—in this bright yet reflective story." — Publishers Weekly "Newbery-winner MacLachlan's spare but elegant prose touches on themes of self-confidence, the writer's craft, and the sense of well-being that can come from pet ownership. This book will please younger readers and inspire would-be wordsmiths." — Booklist Praise for MY FATHER'S WORDS: “MacLachlan is the master of quiet books that pack an emotional wallop. My Father’s Words finds the author in her element. MacLachlan provides a beautifully nuanced portrait of one family’s recovery after tragedy. This book feels as direct and true as a dog looking you straight in the eyes.” — New York Times Book Review “Newbery Medalist MacLachlan is known for writing heart-tugging stories in spare style, as she did in Sarah, Plain and Tall. And that’s what she does here as readers meet Fiona and Finn. Deeply moving and uplifting in unexpected ways.” — Booklist (starred review) “Key relationships in her own life inspired this characteristically taut and resonant novel by Newbery Medalist MacLachlan. MacLachlan masterfully mingles core themes in this slim volume: the power of words and song, memories and family, the mutually redemptive human-canine bond, and ‘the eternal fitness of things.’” — Publishers Weekly (starred review) “With her customary precise, spare language, infused with emotional intelligence, MacLachlan takes readers from shocked grief to a way to live again, fundamental truths dropped carefully and delicately for young readers to comprehend in their own time. A flawless story about resilience, hope, healing, and the eternal fitness of things.” — Kirkus Reviews (starred review) Praise for THE POET'S DOG: “Magical. A quiet, elegant, poignant story suffused with humor, heart, and goodness.” — Kirkus Reviews (starred review) “A spare, moving tale. Using simple words that even youngest readers will understand and enjoy, MacLachlan tackles subjects such as death and mourning with understated grace.” — Publishers Weekly (starred review) "Readers will find their own jewel in this gem of a book." — Booklist (starred review) Praise for WORD AFTER WORD AFTER WORD: “Showing great respect for her readers and her craft, Newbery Award winner Patricia MacLachlan makes every word count in Lucy’s smooth-flowing, economic narrative.” — Booklist (starred review) “MacLachlan delivers a strong, spare novel about the power of writing to transform.” — Publishers Weekly “MacLachlan creates marvelous characters, children who can empathize with and support one another and who produce amazing poetry that captures their sadness and courage. The result is a tale that draws readers into a dichotomous world that is serious and lighthearted, sad and happy, real and unreal.” — School Library Journal

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