Children’s / Teenage fiction: Fantasy

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Book SynopsisA stunningly imagined world, page-turning thrills, and a pair of unlikely heroes on an epic quest make this unique and immersive dark fantasy?from acclaimed author A. J. Steiger?perfect for fans of Holly Black and Kelly Barnhill. Simon Frost lives in a curious place, where magic is used by the very best Animists to do wondrous things?like call upon imps, wraiths, and all manner of monsters to right wrongs, deliver justice, and accomplish feats no human could achieve. Simon Frost is not one of those Animists, though he?s been trying to become one for years. When a plea arrives from a distant hamlet, preyed upon by an abominable monster, Simon sees the opportunity to finally prove his worth. But upon arriving in the tiny village, Simon finds not just a monster but a key to his past?and a pathway into an unbelievable future.

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Book SynopsisThe timelessness of Bridge to Terabithia meets the wonder of Big Fish in this bittersweet, magical story, perfect for fans of Barbara O’Connor, Lisa Graff, and Dan Gemeinhart. When Sam’s dad dies in a car accident, Sam is shuttled off to the dusty town of Holler, Oklahoma, to live with a long-lost aunt.Trade Review"Ventrella brilliantly renders Sam’s gentle nature, defensiveness, and deep sadness; her evocative prose and the small but resonant cast shine, and Sam’s voice effectively relays his path toward the other side of grief." — Publishers Weekly (starred review) "The heartrending story and vividly described settings will captivate readers." — Horn Book Magazine Praise for Kim Ventrella: “Set in the rural South, the syrup-soaked, rich imagery is a sensory delight. Gabe’s voice is distinct, and the evolution of his conflict reinforces the humanity amid the magic. A heck of a good read about the bright side of some durn bad luck.” — Kirkus Reviews (starred review) “Skeleton Tree is a powerful and tender story. Kim Ventrella knows when to be playful and when to break your heart.” — Cassie Beasley, New York Times bestselling author of Circus Mirandus “Ventrella’s comforting storytelling reveals a magical world where a skeleton can grow and where a family’s love for each other can provide healing.” — School Library Journal “Ventrella fearlessly tackles the sensitive subject of death for a middle grade audience.” — Booklist “[An] emotional roller coaster tempered by a touch of magic and a resilient, likable protagonist.” — Kirkus Reviews “Quietly powerful; dark yet whimsical.” — Booklist "The magic is rooted in evocative descriptions and strong emotions. Magically mesmerizing and moving." — Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

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Book SynopsisThe timelessness of Bridge to Terabithia meets the wonder of Big Fish in this bittersweet, magical story, perfect for fans of Barbara O’Connor, Lisa Graff, and Dan Gemeinhart. When Sam’s dad dies in a car accident, Sam is shuttled off to the dusty town of Holler, Oklahoma, to live with a long-lost aunt.Trade Review"Ventrella brilliantly renders Sam’s gentle nature, defensiveness, and deep sadness; her evocative prose and the small but resonant cast shine, and Sam’s voice effectively relays his path toward the other side of grief." — Publishers Weekly (starred review) "The heartrending story and vividly described settings will captivate readers." — Horn Book Magazine Praise for Kim Ventrella: “Set in the rural South, the syrup-soaked, rich imagery is a sensory delight. Gabe’s voice is distinct, and the evolution of his conflict reinforces the humanity amid the magic. A heck of a good read about the bright side of some durn bad luck.” — Kirkus Reviews (starred review) “Skeleton Tree is a powerful and tender story. Kim Ventrella knows when to be playful and when to break your heart.” — Cassie Beasley, New York Times bestselling author of Circus Mirandus “Ventrella’s comforting storytelling reveals a magical world where a skeleton can grow and where a family’s love for each other can provide healing.” — School Library Journal “Ventrella fearlessly tackles the sensitive subject of death for a middle grade audience.” — Booklist “[An] emotional roller coaster tempered by a touch of magic and a resilient, likable protagonist.” — Kirkus Reviews “Quietly powerful; dark yet whimsical.” — Booklist "The magic is rooted in evocative descriptions and strong emotions. Magically mesmerizing and moving." — Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

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Book SynopsisTrade Review“By the end, readers will be itching for more… A captivating and satisfying queer fantasy.” — Kirkus Reviews “Dazzling and creative… This sterling start to a high fantasy series features creative world-building, nuanced and witty characters, good versus evil, a perilous quest, and a touch of romance for both queer and straight characters. Recommended for most fantasy lovers.” — School Library Journal “Masters of character-driven stories, Jones and Bennett yet again deliver with a foul-mouthed thief, an enchanting fae prince, a headstrong woman, and an ex-Queensguard, to name only a few…Though the dreamy fae-mortal romance doesn't flourish until the latter half, fans of the authors will happily subsist on the story's consistent sharp-witted voice alone.” — Booklist “Classic YA fantasy tropes break into a fast-paced fantasy revolution whose heart, grit, and consequences are more than the sum of its parts… A smart, stakes-loaded LGBTQ fantasy well worth sticking with, for fans of Six of Crows and Megan Whalen Turner.” — Publishers Weekly Praise for Jaida Jones and Danielle Bennett: “Havemercy is an absolute charmer of a book: at once exciting, romantic, and funny.” — Kirkus Reviews “These ladies write like a house on fire, delivering fantasy’s most pleasant surprise since Temeraire himself took wing in 2006...An impressive debut.” — SFReviews.net “Delicious! The characters are unique, entrancing and believable: dinner-party guests you never want to see go home. I will gladly walk again in this city, now that I know my way around.” — Ellen Kushner, author of The Privilege of the Sword “A dazzling cast memorable characters! Havemercy is a wonderful debut from two talented new authors.” — Lynn Flewelling, author of Shadows Return “[The authors] vividly convey the testosterone-saturated world of fantasy fighter pilots in this fast-paced debut.” — Publishers Weekly

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Book Synopsis?A fun, unexpected, action-packed reimagining of a classic story.? ?Molly Knox Ostertag, author of The Witch BoyFrozen meets The Wizard of Oz in this swashbuckling adventure perfect for fans of Amulet and The Okay Witch, from the acclaimed author of Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy. Odette and Dillie are supposed to be enemies. Their kingdoms have been feuding since before they were born.But when the two princesses meet each other at the lake that separates their castles, it?s clear they were destined to be best friends. Odette?who lives with a curse that magically transforms her into a swan when the sun rises?is happy to find someone who treats her like everyone else. And Dillie has finally met someone who understands her dream of having an adventure instead of sitting on a throne.When they discover that Odette?s curse is the reason for tension between their families, they decide to follow an ancient legend that could lead them to someone who can set everything right. As they travel through enchanted lands, meet new allies, and fight terrible foes, Odette and Dillie are put to the ultimate test.But when the time comes, will they choose their deepest wishes or the fragile fate of their world?Trade Review“A fun, unexpected, action-packed reimagining of a classic story that celebrates the power of true friendship.” — Molly Knox Ostertag, author of THE WITCH BOY "A fun, ballet-inspired hero’s journey, full of heart, trials, and good humor." — Kirkus Reviews (starred review) Praise for Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy: "[...] this tale offers a contemporary vision of sisterhood that will appeal to a diverse audience." — Kirkus Reviews "Smart and thoughtfully rendered, this modern retelling will resonate with today's readers." — Publishers Weekly Brightly hued illustrations, exaggerated expressions, and polished pacing make this animation-ready graphic novel a zingy and quick read, though there is plenty to contemplate afterward about how to shake off expectations we’re born into, even ones that seem well-intentioned or positive. — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books

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Book SynopsisA new silly and spooky highly illustrated series that’s perfect for fans of Eerie Elementary and Notebooks of Doom, featuring art on every page and fun activities at the end of each book.Trade Review"An exciting series opener that should whet readers’ appetites for more." — Kirkus Reviews "This book speaks to kids who enjoy a scare. From the enticing cover to the cliff-hanger chapter endings, this series is meant to encourage reading and boost confidence and skills.” — School Library Journal

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Book SynopsisTrade Review"Sparkleton’s flaws make him an accessible character and offer a good source of low-stakes tension. A quirky new series that’s strong out of the gate." — Kirkus Reviews "With adorable graphics and encouraging unicorns at the end of the chapters, Sparkleton is about to take elementary libraries by (glittery) storm." — School Library Journal

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Book SynopsisTrade Review“Readers will quickly find themselves absorbed in the story with its intriguing characters and varied plot threads. This series will appeal to fans of animal fiction and budding environmentalists.” — School Library Journal

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Book Synopsis* Indie Next List Pick * Indie Bestseller *Sixteen bloodless bodies. Two teenagers. One impossible explanation. In this edge-of-your-seat mystery from #1 New York Times bestselling author Kendare Blake, the truth is as hard to believe as it is to find.Summer 1958. A gruesome killer plagues the Midwest, leaving behind a trail of bodies completely drained of blood. Michael Jensen, an aspiring journalist whose father happens to be the town sheriff, never imagined that the Bloodless Murders would come to his backyard. Not until the night the Carlson family was found murdered in their home. Marie Catherine Hale, a diminutive fifteen-year-old, was discovered at the scene—covered in blood. She is the sole suspect in custody.Michael didn’t think that he would be part of the investigation, but he is pulled in when Marie decides that he is the only one she will confess to. As Marie recounts her version of the story, it falls to Michael to find the truth: What really happened the night that the Carlsons were killed? And how did one girl wind up in the middle of all these bodies?

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Book SynopsisTrade Review“Adam’s fantasy world is deftly constructed…. [and] the explanations of magical mischief, charms, and rules for interacting with the Fae are marvelous. Immersive, splendid, delightful.” — Kirkus Reviews (starred review) “Gripping from the start, with stunning descriptions, exquisite world building, and loads of historical details seamlessly woven into the story… Fantasy fans will do well to immerse themselves in this marvelous, magical world.” — Booklist (starred review) “While the fae world is pure fantasy, the tone and pace is folkloric—this is a story that feels like it could be told on a cold winter’s night to a rapt audience. There’s true love, unexpected heroism, cool magical animals, a formidable villain, and a spritely girl in the middle of it all who knows her own strengths.” — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books “A world in which magic and the everyday precariously exist side by side, brimming with intrigue and danger. Its resourceful heroine, ethereal Fae, strong setting, and perilous atmosphere make for a revitalizing fantasy adventure.” — Publishers Weekly Praise for The Last Windwitch: “Brida’s unusual magic [is] beautifully described……Readers will appreciate the emphasis on individual kindness and widespread cooperation between different kinds of magic users and ordinary people united against oppression and cruelty.” — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books “An intriguing setting, an interesting magical system, and a resourceful, empathic heroine mark this ambitious fantasy debut by Adam." — Publishers Weekly

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Book SynopsisThe imaginary world they created has been waiting for them to come back. Twins Arthur and Rose created the magical world of Roar when they were very young, and until recently, they’d all but forgotten it exists. But when the villain who still haunts their nightmares kidnaps their grandfather, Roar becomes part of their lives again. When the twins go back to Roar for their first visit after rescuing Granddad, they soon discover there’s no time to explore—Crowky, the villain, is poised to destroy their world, using a weapon that brings their deepest fears to life. Arthur and Rose must use all their courage and travel to the End of Roar to confront Crowky and save the world they built. This enchanting, action-packed novel is the sequel to The Land of Roar, a bestseller in the UK, and is perfect for readers who’ve always dreamed of exploring Narnia and Neverland.

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Book SynopsisTrade Review"A decadent and enthralling debut, Sisters of the Snake lures readers into a dark and twisted world of intoxicating magic, starcrossed sisters, and heart pounding romance. Sasha and Sarena Nanua are a powerhouse duo to watch!" — Dhonielle Clayton, New York Times bestselling author of The Belles and Tiny Pretty Things "Sarena and Sasha Nanua's charming debut is like an old school Bollywood fantasy brought to life: long lost, star-crossed sisters, snake magic, forbidden romance, and a lush, sinister world that you'll want to revisit again and again. Sequel now please!" — Sona Charaipotra, author of Symptoms of a Heartbreak and the Tiny Pretty Things series "Sisters of the Snake kept me on tenterhooks even as it thoroughly entertained me. Fast-paced and magical, this book introduces two bright new voices to YA lit. I can’t wait to see more from Sarena and Sasha Nanua!" — Tanaz Bhathena, author of Hunted by the Sky “Themes of fate, identity, and sisterhood intertwine in this lush fantasy that incorporates Indian cultural elements into its worldbuilding. A fresh take on a classic tale.” — Kirkus Reviews “A glamorous high-fantasy world, steeped in intrigue and bolstered by Punjabi cultural touches… its pace leaves little room for boredom in this immersive series starter.” — Publishers Weekly

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Book SynopsisTrade Review"A decadent and enthralling debut, Sisters of the Snake lures readers into a dark and twisted world of intoxicating magic, starcrossed sisters, and heart pounding romance. Sasha and Sarena Nanua are a powerhouse duo to watch!" — Dhonielle Clayton, New York Times bestselling author of The Belles and Tiny Pretty Things "Sarena and Sasha Nanua's charming debut is like an old school Bollywood fantasy brought to life: long lost, star-crossed sisters, snake magic, forbidden romance, and a lush, sinister world that you'll want to revisit again and again. Sequel now please!" — Sona Charaipotra, author of Symptoms of a Heartbreak and the Tiny Pretty Things series "Sisters of the Snake kept me on tenterhooks even as it thoroughly entertained me. Fast-paced and magical, this book introduces two bright new voices to YA lit. I can’t wait to see more from Sarena and Sasha Nanua!" — Tanaz Bhathena, author of Hunted by the Sky “Themes of fate, identity, and sisterhood intertwine in this lush fantasy that incorporates Indian cultural elements into its worldbuilding. A fresh take on a classic tale.” — Kirkus Reviews “A glamorous high-fantasy world, steeped in intrigue and bolstered by Punjabi cultural touches… its pace leaves little room for boredom in this immersive series starter.” — Publishers Weekly

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Book SynopsisAmerican Indian Youth Literature Award Winner: Best Middle Grade Book! Brian Young’s powerful debut novel tells of a seemingly ordinary Navajo boy who must save the life of a Water Monster—and comes to realize he’s a hero at heart.When Nathan goes to visit his grandma, Nali, at her mobile summer home on the Navajo reservation, he knows he’s in for a pretty uneventful summer, with no electricity or cell service. Still, he loves spending time with Nali and with his uncle Jet, though it’s clear when Jet arrives that he brings his problems with him.One night, while lost in the nearby desert, Nathan finds someone extraordinary: a Holy Being from the Navajo Creation Story—a Water Monster—in need of help.Now Nathan must summon all his courage to save his new friend. With the help of other Navajo Holy Beings, Nathan is determined to save the Water Monster, and to support Uncle Jet in healing from his own pain.The Heartdrum imprint centers a wide range of intertribal voices, visions, and stories while welcoming all young readers, with an emphasis on the present and future of Indian Country and on the strength of young Native heroes. In partnership with We Need Diverse Books.

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Book Synopsis“A beautifully rendered coming-of-age story.”—Kirkus Reviews (starred review)No one knows what lies beyond the magical village door, but Ezomo is determined to find out.Trade Review“A boy and his best friends embark on a pilgrimage that delivers bittersweet life lessons in a richly rendered, West African–inspired world. . . . Paasewe-Valchev’s prose is captivating, smooth, and poetic in its delivery of this fresh and layered narrative. With well-timed, fluid pacing, this novel masterfully deals with themes of friendship, family, loss, and hope. Readers will be engrossed from start to finish. A beautifully rendered coming-of-age story.” — Kirkus Reviews (starred review) “[A] wondrous tale of the village of Sesa, the unusual boy who lives there—and magic enough to change them both. . . . Combining adventure, cautionary tale, and folklore, the narrative includes many side stories and intertwined histories. . . . Making use of many characteristics found in West African oral traditions (call and response, repetition, proverbs, etc.), this tale is a joy to read both silently and aloud.” — Horn Book Magazine

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Book SynopsisA young prince must learn to be his own kind of hero in this stand-alone graphic novel from the acclaimed creator of the Estranged duology. Perfect for fans of the Amulet series and The Witch Boy.Young Prince Alto dreams of being a hero like his mother, the Lady Brightblade. Her well-known legend was woven into stories by the magical bard who fought by her side.The kingdom may be at peace now, but Alto believes that the world still needs heroes. He has been learning the bard''s magic, and has grown restless with royal life. Determined to have an adventure of his own, Alto runs away from the palace. On his journey, he finds himself making new friends and encountering new and exciting magic. But when he discovers that there are dangers threatening the kingdom, Alto realizes that he might not be able to handle them alone?and making his mark as a hero is harder than the stories made it seem.

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Book SynopsisTwo unlikely friends''Federico, in sixteenth-century Rome, and Bee, in present-day New Jersey''are linked through an amiable cat, Leonardo Da Vinci''s mysterious wardrobe, and an eerily perfect sketch of Bee. Newbery Honor author Catherine Gilbert Murdock''s Da Vinci''s Cat is a thrilling, time-slip fantasy about rewriting history to save the present. This inventive novel will engross anyone who loved When You Reach Me and A Wrinkle in Time.Federico doesn''t mind being a political hostage in the Pope''s palace, especially now that he has a cat as a friend. But he must admit that a kitten walking into a wardrobe and returning full-grown a moment later is quite odd. Even stranger is Herbert, apparently an art collector from the future, who emerges from the wardrobe the next night. Herbert barters with Federico to get a sketch signed by the famous painter Raphael, but his plans take a dangerous turn when he hurries back to his era, desperate to save a dying girl.Bee never wanted to move to New Jersey. When a neighbor shows Bee a sketch that perfectly resembles her, Bee, freaked out, solidifies her resolve to keep to herself. But then she meets a friendly cat and discovers a mysterious cabinet in her neighbor''s attic''a cabinet that leads her to Renaissance Rome. Bee, who has learned about Raphael and Michelangelo in school, never expected she''d get to meet them and see them paint their masterpieces. This compelling time-slip adventure by Newbery Honor author Catherine Gilbert Murdock is full of action, mystery, history, art, and friendship''and features one unforgettable cat. Includes black-and-white spot art throughout of Da Vinci''s cat by Caldecott Medalist Paul O. Zelinsky, as well as an author''s note about the art, artists, and history that inspired the novel .

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Book Synopsis?Thoroughly charming.??Kirkus Reviews (starred review)?Original.??Booklist(starred review)A story about selflessness, friendship and the importance of seeking unity through difference.?Shelf Awareness (starred review)Two unlikely friends?Federico, in sixteenth-century Rome, and Bee, in present-day New Jersey?are linked through an amiable cat, Leonardo Da Vinci?s mysterious wardrobe, and an eerily perfect sketch of Bee. Newbery Honor author Catherine Gilbert Murdock?s Da Vinci?s Cat is a thrilling, time-slip fantasy about rewriting history to save the present. This inventive novel will engross anyone who loved When You Reach Me and A Wrinkle in Time.Federico doesn?t mind being a political hostage in the Pope?s palace, especially now that he has a cat as a friend. But he must admit that a kitten walking into a wardrobe and returning full-grown a moment later is quite odd. Even stranger is Herbert, apparently an art collector from the future, who emerges from the wardrobe the next night. Herbert barters with Federico to get a sketch signed by the famous painter Raphael, but his plans take a dangerous turn when he hurries back to his era, desperate to save a dying girl.Bee never wanted to move to New Jersey. When a neighbor shows Bee a sketch that perfectly resembles her, Bee, freaked out, solidifies her resolve to keep to herself. But then she meets a friendly cat and discovers a mysterious cabinet in her neighbor?s attic?a cabinet that leads her to Renaissance Rome. Bee, who has learned about Raphael and Michelangelo in school, never expected she?d get to meet them and see them paint their masterpieces.This compelling time-slip adventure by Newbery Honor author Catherine Gilbert Murdock is full of action, mystery, history, art, and friendship?and features one unforgettable cat.Includes black-and-white spot art throughout of Da Vinci?s cat by Caldecott Medalist Paul O. Zelinsky, as well as an author?s note about the art, artists, and history that inspired the novel .

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Book SynopsisTrade Review“Kids captivated by Katherine Arden's Small Spaces will find a similar blend of chilling tales, hair-raising adventures, and deeper themes here.” — Booklist "Wonderfully shivery." — Kirkus Reviews “A great stand-alone read that you don’t need to wait for the fall holiday to enjoy.” — School Library Journal “An excellent choice.” — Booklist

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Book SynopsisTrade Review“Intricately plotted and wonderfully realized…There is evil, betrayal, cruelty, loss, compassion, kindness, a touch of humor, and heart-stopping adventure…The carefully constructed fantasy world holds perfectly true.” — Kirkus Reviews (starred review) “It’s a marvelous adventure, and Lasky's gorgeous text has a proper, old-fashioned tone that lends gravity to the fantastical plot. There is an astonishingly detailed mythology, language, and history to the beaver world, and larger, relevant themes of immigration and racism are organically worked in… an enchanting introduction to a wonderful, new natural world.” — Booklist (starred review) “Themes of belonging and friendship are well conveyed… as are the complexities of this industrious world of creatures.” — Publishers Weekly

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Book SynopsisAnd when a magical heirloom leaves Walt, his new friend Dylan, and Van stranded in the fantastical world that Walt created, he’ll need to harness his new power to get them home.But things are changing.Trade Review“Readers will be absorbed as they explore fantastical worlds through his curious and enthusiastic eyes. An exciting and imaginative read.” — Kirkus Reviews “Ramée's fast-paced debut centering on a Black protagonist engagingly leaves gaps for the reader to fill in with their own creativity and imagination, and themes of pushing against gendered expectations give the story emotional weight. A perfect fit for fans of Kwame Mbalia's Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky.” — Booklist “This is an exciting adventure full of friendship and heart with a likable nerdy-Black-kid protagonist…. Readers will enjoy the well-drawn characters as well as the fantastical landscapes and imaginative creatures in Walt’s magical world.” — Horn Book Magazine “In an ambitious fantasy, Lisa Moore Ramée [explores] themes of gender norms and racism through a fantasy adventure with friendship elements. A creative story of embracing one’s prowess.” — Publishers Weekly “The world building is inventive and cleverly constructed, but the heart of this novel is Walt’s evolution into a boy who knows his potential is boundless, regardless of where he is or who he encounters.” — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books “In her first fantasy for young readers, Lisa Moore Ramée puts her distinctively authentic tween characters into a world where magic glimmers underneath the surface, creating an inventive fantastical adventure that explores the many ways to be tough and how powerful having a big imagination can be.” — Anne Ursu, author of The Troubled Girls of Dragomir Academy

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