Children’s / Teenage fiction: Friendship stories

Book SynopsisBig Cat Phonics for Little Wandle Letters and Sounds Revised has been developed in collaboration with Wandle Learning Trust and Little Sutton Primary School. It comprises classroom resources to support the SSP programme and a range of phonic readers that together provide a consistent and highly effective approach to teaching phonics.

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Book SynopsisBig Cat Phonics for Little Wandle Letters and Sounds Revised has been developed in collaboration with Wandle Learning Trust and Little Sutton Primary School. It comprises classroom resources to support the SSP programme and a range of phonic readers that together provide a consistent and highly effective approach to teaching phonics.Dreena and Scarlet are twins and when Dreena becomes ill and loses her hair, Scarlet decides to donate her hair so that people like Dreena can have nice wigs. A beautiful and touching story of friendship and empathy in the face of adversity.

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Book SynopsisCollins Big Cat supports every primary child on their reading journey from phonics to fluency. Top authors and illustrators have created fiction and non-fiction books that children love to read. Levelled for guided and independent reading, each book includes ideas to support reading. Teaching and assessment support and eBooks are also available.It's the summer show and Eden, Daniel and Wale are brought together by chance, when nerves get the better of them. Little do they know, they're about to embark on an adventure. Can they work together to overcome their fears and become the Worry Warriors?Diamond/Band 17 books offer more complex, underlying themes to give opportunities for children to understand causes and points of view.Pages 54 and 55 allow children to re-visit the content of the book, supporting comprehension skills, vocabulary development and recall.Ideas for reading in the back of the book provide practical support and stimulating activities.Tarnelia loves a good story and is

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Book SynopsisCollins Big Cat supports every primary child on their reading journey from phonics to fluency. Top authors and illustrators have created fiction and non-fiction books that children love to read. Levelled for guided and independent reading, each book includes ideas to support reading. Teaching and assessment support and eBooks are also available.Miya is looking forward to the new year she has great friends and exciting things planned But things change both at home, where her beloved gran starts to lose her memory, and at school, when a new girl joins, which throws her into a whirlwind of uncertainty. Can her love for art, family and her friends help her?Pearl/Band 18 books offer fluent readers a complex, substantial text with challenging themes to facilitate sustained comprehension, bridging the gap between a reading programme and longer chapter books.Pages 78 and 79 allow children to re-visit the content of the book, supporting comprehension skills, vocabulary development and recall.

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Book SynopsisTake to the skies and join Dragon Towers the school where everyone has their own dragon best friend! A hilarious new series from the author of the Naughtiest Unicorn highly illustrated, full of fun and adventure, and starring a dragon with a magical bum. Perfect for readers aged 6 and up. Ten-year-old Theo LOVES dragons he knows every dragon type, has every dragon book there is and has even made his own Dragon Rider jacket. So when he gets his letter inviting him to dragon school it's a dragon-y dream come true.At Dragon Towers every child is paired with their very own dragon best friend, and every dragon has their own special magic power, from fire-breathing to going invisible and even making slime. Theo can't wait to find out what type of dragon he has. But when he meets his dragon Wanda she doesn't seem to have any powers at allJoin the fun in this hilarious new series, perfect for fans of the Naughtiest Unicorn, Pamela Butchart and the Worst Witch. Packed full of roaringly funnyTrade ReviewPRAISE FOR THE NAUGHTIEST UNICORN:‘Hilarious black-and-white illustrations complement this humorous fantasy adventure. Featuring unicorns of many colours, as well as tons of glitter, lots of rainbows and plenty of farting and poo, there are also underlying themes of diversity, inclusion and positivity.’ Booktrust

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Book SynopsisFrog and Toad stories have delighted both children and adults for more than fifty years, celebrating friendship and life in the most joyful and heart-warming way. This charming collection, which brings together three springtime stories, is the perfect seasonal gift for children. Once upon a time there were two good friends, a frog and a toad . . .In these timeless and very funny spring-themed stories, Frog and Toad are always there for each other. From ensuring that Toad wakes up in time for spring, singing and reading to flower seeds in the hope that they'll grow to spending alone time together. These two loveable characters really are the best of friends.Also look out for: Summer with Frog and Toad, Autumn with Frog and Toad and Christmas with Frog and Toad.I bow before Arnold Lobel: he is my utter hero'Julia DonaldsonTrade ReviewPraise for Frog and Toad: ‘I bow before Arnold Lobel: he is my utter hero’Julia Donaldson ‘It’s hard to think of a children’s author who better prepared young readers for growing up than Arnold Lobel’Atlantic ‘A masterpiece of child-styled humour and sensitivity’School Library Journal

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Book SynopsisWith more than 30 million books sold, the My Weird School series really gets kids reading! and his friends be able to save their principal's job?Perfect for reluctant readers and word lovers alike, Dan Gutman's hugely popular My Weird School series has something for everyone.

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Book SynopsisBut when Annie falls off Splash during a riding lesson, the rattled Pony Scout has to decide whether or not to get back in the saddle.The Pony Scouts series is full of all the rich details young horse lovers devour, from pony-centric plots to a "Pony Pointers" vocabulary page at the end of each book.

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Book SynopsisWith more than 30 million books sold, the My Weird School series really gets kids reading!In the second book in My Weird School Daze—the hilarious second arc of the My Weird School series—A.J.

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Book SynopsisYou're surprised at all the blood.This wasn't the way it was supposed to go. You're just a typical fifteen-year-old sophomore. But then, how do you explain the blood? How do you explain how you got here in the first place?Maybe if you can figure out where it all went wrong, you can still make it right. . .Trade Review"Benoit is a rare discovery." -- Publishers Weekly (starred review) "Wanna know who the REAL bad guys in your school are? Read You. This book will keep you reading, and then it will start you thinking. And talking. You is GOOD stuff." -- Sara

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Book SynopsisBenson Fisher thought that a scholarship to Maxfield Academy would be the ticket out of his dead-end life. Now he's trapped in a school that's surrounded by a razor-wire fence, where video cameras monitor his every move—and where breaking the rules equals death. All Benson wants is to find a way out.Trade Review"An intense journey with some of the most shocking twists and turns I've ever read." -- Pittacus Lore, #1 New York Times bestselling author of I Am Number Four "A chilling, masterful debut. With its clever premise, quick pace, and easy-to-champion characters, Wells' story is a fast, gripping read with a cliffhanger that will leave readers wanting more." -- Publishers Weekly (starred review) "Variant is a compelling story on so many levels. I loved it! The twist behind it all is my favorite since Ender's Game." -- James Dashner, New York Times bestselling author of The Maze Runner "An exciting, edge-of-your-seat read that combines psychological themes from works like Lord of the Flies, The Hunger Games and Ender's Game in a truly unique way. Variant should join the ranks of today's must-read science fiction and fantasy series. A highly recommended addition to any collection for teens." -- Voice of Youth Advocates (VOYA) (starred review) "Benson's account unfolds in a speedy, unadorned first person. Hard to put down from the very first page, this fast-paced novel answers only some of the questions it poses, holding some of the most tantalizing open for the next installment in a series that is anything but ordinary." -- Kirkus Reviews "Good old-fashioned paranoia taken to giddy extremes. Take Veronica Roth's Divergent, strip out the angst, add a Michael Grant-level storytelling pace, and you have this very satisfying series starter." -- Booklist "Fans seeking a fast-paced, action-heavy read will find this generates a lot of excitement." -- Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books "Filled with heart-racing action and suspense. An impressive debut with wide appeal, especially for fans of Alexander Gordon Smith's Lockdown and James Dashner's The Maze Runner." -- School Library Journal

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Book SynopsisBenson Fisher escaped from Maxfield Academy's deadly rules and brutal gangs. Or so he thought. But now Benson is trapped in a different kind of prison: a town filled with hauntingly familiar faces. People from Maxfield he saw die. Friends he was afraid he had killed.Trade Review"An intense journey with some of the most shocking twists and turns I've ever read." -- Pittacus Lore, #1 New York Times bestselling author of I Am Number Four "Picking up only moments after the first book ends, Feedback features the same nonstop, breathless pace, adding new dimension to old characters and new plot twists that are hard to see coming. An absorbing read that won't let fans of the first down." -- Kirkus Reviews

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Book SynopsisBut juggling auditions and the rest of her life turns out to be harder than Zee thought. Is being a star worth it?Fans of the Dork Diaries will snap up the fifth book in this tween illustrated series about a twelve-year-old girl trying to survive middle school.Trade ReviewPraise for the Mackenzie Blue series: "A lighthearted series, sure to please girls all too aware of the impending approach of middle school." -- ALA Booklist

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Book SynopsisTrade Review"Billy Miller's second-grade year is quietly spectacular in a wonderfully ordinary way... Henkes offers ... a sense that experiences don't have to be extraordinary to be important and dramatic... Sweetly low-key and totally accessible." -- Kirkus Reviews (starred review) "Henkes's delightful story is restrained and vivid in in just this way: forgoing the overdramatic or zany, it shows the substance, warmth and adaptability of beautifully common family love." -- New York Times "A vivid yet secure portrait of a boy coming into his confidence ... [with] a comfortable rhythm perfectly suited to young readers... Nuanced and human." -- Horn Book (starred review) "Funny and often poignant ... Billy himself might have been daunted by a book with more than 200 pages, but eager young readers will find this a great first chapter book to share or read solo." -- School Library Journal (starred review) "A story with a lot of heart." -- Booklist "Smartly attuned to emerging readers, and its warmth, relatable situations, and sympathetic hero give it broad appeal." -- Publishers Weekly "Thoughtful kids able to tackle a book of this length will enjoy reading this on their own, but it would also make a fine choice for reading aloud in the classroom or home." -- Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

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Book SynopsisWhat better way to celebrate spring than with a fashion show hosted by Fancy Nancy and her friend Bree! Nancy and Bree create magnificent costumes for their dolls Marabelle and Chiffon to wear at the Spring Fling Fashion Show.

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Book SynopsisA winter wonderland of a picture book about being kind to friends and strangers alike, perfect for the holiday season. Could it be a new friend?This story about kindness and generosity is as cozy and sweet as a mug of hot chocolate on a chilly day.

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Book SynopsisA J and his friends from Ella Mentry School are graduating! Graduating second grade, that is. But between a zany graduation ceremony, a wacky summer vacation, and the off-the-wall antics of their new third grade teacher, the weirdness is only just getting started.

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Book SynopsisFor fans of Silver Linings Playbook and Liar, this thought-provoking debut tells the story of Alex, a high school senior—and the ultimate unreliable narrator—unable to tell the difference between real life and delusion.Alex fights a daily battle to figure out what is real and what is not.Trade Review"Debut novelist Zappia presents readers with a wholly unreliable narrator, [but] the characters all seem authentic, thanks to Zappia's careful attention to detail." -- Booklist "Alex is a funny, touching, determined, and smart character, and her story is complex and interesting. Fans of E. Lockhart's We Were Liars and Matthew Quick's Silver Linings Playbook will immerse themselves in this nuanced look at trying to live a "normal" life while coping with mental illness." -- Voice of Youth Advocates (VOYA) "The storytelling texture here recalls Andrew Smith and Sean Beaudoin...There are moments of genuine tragedy redeemed by the acceptance Miles and Alex find in each other amidst all of their imperfections; if love doesn't conquer all, it certainly makes the battles easier to bear. Readers...will enjoy this quirky trip." -- Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books "Alex's sardonic voice and the rapid, Heathers-like dialogue will hold readers' interest." -- Publishers Weekly

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Book SynopsisFeaturing five of our most beloved I Can Read stories about dogs, this collection of favorite easy-to-read I Can Read stories is full of familiar faces and furry friends!

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Book SynopsisPerfect for fans of Stephanie Perkins, Lauren Barnholdt, and Susane Colasanti, Trouble from the Start is a sweet and romantic read about a good girl who falls for a bad boy.Avery knows better than to fall for Fletcher, the local bad boy who can't seem to outrun his reputation.Trade Review“This novel would appeal to female readers who enjoy romance as well as high school drama, which makes it a positive addition to teachers’ and librarians’ shelves.” — Voice of Youth Advocates (VOYA) “the perfect formula for a lazy afternoon.” — Booklist

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Book SynopsisIn the eighth book in the New York Times–bestselling chapter book series about the childhood of America's favorite housekeeper, Amelia Bedelia puts on her dancing shoes and dances up a storm!

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Book SynopsisPerfect for fans of Big Nate, Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Timmy Failure, and the previous Stick Dog books, Tom Watson’s hilarious Stick Dog Slurps Spaghetti will be gobbled up even by reluctant readers.It’s slippery.

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Book Synopsisis a My First I Can Read book, which means it’s perfect for shared reading with a child.Read about more of Otter’s adventures in I Am Otter, Otter in Space, Otter Goes to School, Otter Loves Halloween!, Otter Loves Easter!, Otter: Oh No, Bath Time!, Otter: The Best Job Ever!, and Otter: Hello, Sea Friends!

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Book SynopsisA New York Times bestseller now in paperback, this dazzling beginning to the Shattered Realms series is indispensable for fans of Cinda Williams Chima and a perfect starting point for readers who are new to her work.Trade Review"A welcome return for loyal fans and a splendid jumping-on point for new ones. Both will be panting for the next installment." -- Kirkus Reviews (starred review) "With full-blooded, endearing heroes, a well-developed supporting cast and a detail-rich setting, Chima explores the lives of two young adults, one at the top of the world and the other at the bottom, struggling to find their place and protect those they love." -- Publishers Weekly for The Demon King "Fans will pore over every detail and beg impatiently for the sequel. Riveting." -- Kirkus Reviews (starred review) for The Exiled Queen "The story lines are intricately plotted and the characters fully realized, even as questions about truth, loyalty, and power are explored." -- Voice of Youth Advocates (VOYA) for The Exiled Queen "Chima navigates with graceful ease through multiple viewpoints and intricately realized settings united only by a subtle current of magic. Every character is both likable and flawed, written with such clear-eyed compassion that it impossible not to sympathize with all their competing goals." -- Kirkus Reviews for The Gray Wolf Throne "Chima's tour-de-force world-building keeps readers apt, with cutthroat action sequences running parallel to the political ones." -- Horn Book Magazine for The Gray Wolf Throne "Betrayal, war, and the faith of lovers all come around to a glorious conclusion as Chima weaves together her geopolitical, magical, romantic, and even mythical themes on an epic scale." -- The Horn Book for The Crimson Crown

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Book SynopsisTrade Review“This arresting, heartbreaking, and meditative novel examines the desperation of anxiety and shows how, though difficult, gaining control of one’s life can lead both to living one’s best life and living life the best one can.” — Booklist (starred review) “At seventeen, Ocean is severely depressed, and she’s taking a gap year in New York City while her mom believes she’s attending university. . . . With gutting clarity, the prose depicts the surrealness and pain of living with derealization and suicidal ideation. . . . Zhang’s realistic portrayal of mental illness does not include external support such as seeking therapy, but it could be a great part of a display with additional resources on mental health and abusive relationships. Hand this to anyone trying their best wobbling through the precarious and precious parts of life.” — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books (starred review) “A 17-year-old girl struggles through emotional and philosophical quandaries in New York City. . . . As Ocean is drawn closer to Constant, her own thoughts on life, reality, dying, the self, and language clash with his, creating an intriguing dynamic and a twist on the typical romance arc. Ocean’s original narration and worldview are immersive and sympathetic . . . A satisfying story arc exploring relationships with the self and others.” — Kirkus Reviews “Ocean has been wrestling with depression and suicidal ideation while balancing her Chinese immigrant mother’s high expectations with finding her own place in the world. . . . Employing leisurely pacing, Zhang meaningfully develops the characters’ dynamic relationships and intersecting paths toward adulthood, and Ocean and Constant’s poetic conversations and introspective ruminations provide plenty of fodder for philosophical discussion long after readers put down this reflective, romantic novel.” — Publishers Weekly “Mental health, fragile relationships, and life struggles in NYC all come together in this atmospheric novel. . . . As Ocean struggles financially, emotionally, and mentally, things spiral out of her control. . . . When she ends up in jail for a misdemeanor, Ocean will have to face the fact that she’s losing control of her own life.” — School Library Journal

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Book SynopsisKids will love to see the magic of metamorphosis with #1 bestselling author Victoria Kann’s Pinkalicious and the Little Butterfly, an 8x8 illustrated storybook.Pinkalicious is so excited when Miss Penny brings monarch caterpillars to class.

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Book SynopsisPink, of course!This 24-page 8x8 comes with a sheet of beautiful stickers!Pinkalicious + Peter + mermaids makes for a charming and fun book for little ones.Plus don't miss Pinkalicious & Peterrific on PBS Kids!

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Book SynopsisTrade Review“Kelly knows her audience well and uses Ben and Charlotte’s alternating points of view to capture moments of tween anguish with searing honesty. ...Heartfelt and hopeful, this novel will encourage young readers to offer their hand in friendship to kids who, just like them, might be struggling.” — School Library Journal (starred review) “Readers will undoubtedly see themselves in these pages. ...A well-crafted, entertaining call for middle schoolers to find their voices and remain accountable in shaping their own social spheres.” — Kirkus Reviews (starred review) “A delicate look at friendship, bullying and coming of age. ...You Go First is a brilliant follow-up to Entrada Kelly’s Newbery winner Hello, Universe, and challenges readers to rethink the rules of friendship.” — Shelf Awareness (starred review) “The link between the two main characters becomes a subtle bond that enables each one to make it through an emotionally challenging week and come out stronger. Readers drawn by the intriguing jacket art will enjoy the novel’s perceptive dual narrative.” — Booklist “With character-revealing prose, Kelly holds readers’ attention as the narrative moves back and forth between her two fully realized protagonists and their intricately drawn home and school settings.” — The Horn Book “Kelly writes with sympathetic gravity of young people who feel lost in a world where they thought they knew the way. ...Readers will be glad to see that both [Charlotte and Ben] will manage to remain themselves and be okay.” — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books “Written by the recent winner of the Newbery Award, this novel speaks to the many kids who find themselves lonely in the midst of middle school.” — Providence Journal “Newbery Medal winner Kelly is spot-on in her depiction of isolation and self-doubt middle schoolers who don’t fit in can feel. She gives Charlotte and Ben’s e-friendship a contemporary hopefulness.” — Cleveland Plain Dealer

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Book SynopsisThe irresistible companion to the #1 New York Times bestseller Dumplin’, now a Netflix feature film starring Danielle Macdonald and Jennifer Aniston, and a soundtrack by Dolly Parton!Millie Michalchuk has gone to fat camp every year since she was a little girl.Trade Review“This companion to the very popular Dumplin’ introduces more memorable characters for whom readers can’t help but cheer.” — School Library Journal “Julie Murphy has created the platonic love story of a lifetime. I am wildly in love with Puddin’.” — Becky Albertalli, award-winning author of Simon vs the Homo Sapiens Agenda “Murphy’s plot brims with unlikely friendships, irresistible romance, fabulous fat acceptance, and a kick-ass ending. Buoying.” — Kirkus Reviews (starred review) “Murphy’s energetic writing style makes for compulsive readability.” — Booklist “Texans and non-Texans alike will appreciate getting to know two strong-minded Lone Star girls.” — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books “A wonderful story of young romance, body acceptance, and unlikely friendships.” — Voice of Youth Advocates (VOYA) Praise for RAMONA BLUE: “An exquisite, thoughtful exploration of the ties that bind and the fluidity of relationships, sexuality, and life.” — Kirkus Reviews (starred review) Praise for RAMONA BLUE: “Julie Murphy knows a thing or two about navigating the worlds of girls on the brink of self-discovery.” — Booklist (starred review) Praise for RAMONA BLUE: “A must-have work that will resonate with teens” — School Library Journal Praise for RAMONA BLUE: “Julie Murphy delivers a fresh and glorious love story that addresses all the complexities of one’s heart. Ramona Blue’s discovery of limitless love is total beauty.” — Adam Silvera, New York Times bestselling author of More Happy Than Not Praise for RAMONA BLUE: “Ramona Blue is Julie Murphy’s best book yet. It’s hilarious, it’s heartfelt, and it’s so, so real. I just wish I’d had this book to read during my own teen years!” — Robin Talley, New York Times bestselling author of Lies We Tell Ourselves Praise for RAMONA BLUE: “Murphy creates a place that feels deeply real…a great setting for a coming-of-age story, as Ramona realizes that she’s capable of more than she imagined and that some categories are more fluid than she’d thought.” — Publishers Weekly Praise for RAMONA BLUE: “Satisfying” — The Horn Book Praise for DUMPLIN’: “Will’s singular voice compels readers to think about all that goes into building-and destroying-self-esteem...Splendid” — Booklist (starred review) Praise for DUMPLIN’: “Murphy...successfully makes every piece of the story—Dolly Parton superfans, first love, best-friend problems, an unlikely group of pageant entrants, female solidarity, self-acceptance, and Willowdean’s complicated relationship with the mother...-count, weaving them together to create a harmonious, humorous, and thought-provoking whole.” — Publishers Weekly (starred review) Praise for DUMPLIN’: “I’m obsessed with this book. Wickedly funny, heartbreakingly real, full of characters to love and cheer for. DUMPLIN’ is such a star.” — Katie Cotugno, author of How to Love and 99 Days Praise for DUMPLIN’: “Dumplin’ should be required reading for anyone who has ever felt even slightly uncomfortable in his or her skin. Julie Murphy’s star continues to shine with this groundbreaking, poignant story that will surely change lives.” — John Corey Whaley, award-winning author of Noggin and Where Things Come Back Praise for DUMPLIN’: “[A] richly enjoyable novel...a clever and funny book to please lovers of thoughtful romance and secret pageant fans.” — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books Praise for DUMPLIN’: “Genuine, romantic, and with a dash of Texan charm, this is a novel that celebrates being who you are while also acknowledging that it’s incredibly difficult to do.” — The Horn Book Praise for DUMPLIN’: “Portrays and challenges sterotypes about beauty pageants, size issues, and women’s concerns...Powerful.” — Voice of Youth Advocates (VOYA) Praise for SIDE EFFECTS MAY VARY: “Honest and unflinching, this is a compelling story of one teen’s struggle with cancer, love, and living. A worthwhile addition.” — School Library Journal Praise for SIDE EFFECTS MAY VARY: “Readers will turn the last page wanting to know where the next chapter leads.” — Kirkus Reviews Praise for SIDE EFFECTS MAY VARY: “Alice and Harvey’s relationship is raw, honest, moving, and unapologetic in its depiction of their individual, and collective, pain.” — Booklist Praise for SIDE EFFECTS MAY VARY: “Julie Murphy weaves together a tender and funny tale of love, friendship, heartache, and redemption. Side Effects May Vary explodes with brutal honesty, brilliant wit, and unflinching heart.” — John Corey Whaley, winner of the Michael L. Printz Award for Where Things Come Back Praise for SIDE EFFECTS MAY VARY: “Julie Murphy’s Side Effects May Vary is a funny, heartfelt, honest look at the beauty and the risk of getting a second chance. An inspiring novel about all the things worth living for. I adored this debut!” — Siobhan Vivian, author of The List Praise for SIDE EFFECTS MAY VARY: “A funny and touching novel about a strong-willed heroine who finds facing death simple, but facing life heart-wrenchingly complicated. A real original.” — Jennifer Echols, author of Going Too Far Praise for SIDE EFFECTS MAY VARY: “A tale of unlikely romance, impossible obstacles, and mortality, this book is a must-read.” — Teen Vogue Praise for SIDE EFFECTS MAY VARY: “It’s equal parts fun, cringe-worthy, and totally fearless!” — Seventeen Praise for SIDE EFFECTS MAY VARY: “An unexpected twist on the typical cancer story.” — Voice of Youth Advocates (VOYA)

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Book SynopsisTrade Review“Miller and Barton encourage kids to be their best, follow their own drummers, and give their all in a book that is sure to bring to mind Dr. Seuss’ Oh, the Places You’ll Go. Adorable [and] racially diverse.” — Kirkus Reviews “Miller writes in buoyant rhyming verses. Together, Miller and Barton offer a genuine message about individuality.” — Publishers Weekly “Miller’s story and Barton’s illustrated characters are diverse and encourage young readers to not only be themselves, but to also do good deeds. There is an important underlying theme of treating others with respect and dignity. An excellent upbeat addition to any collection.” — School Library Journal

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Book SynopsisA deeply emotional and highly romantic tale of two teens who fall in love while grieving the one person who makes their love impossible, in the vein of You’ve Reached Sam and The Sky Is Everywhere. Sarah feels unmoored following her boyfriend’s sudden and tragic death.Trade Review"The slow build of Sarah and Jake’s romance is authentic and genuine...readers pine for them to be together. Offers textured relationships and honest heartaches." — Kirkus Reviews

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Book SynopsisTrade Review“Quietly moving.” — ALA Booklist “Kline’s prose is fluid and draws readers into the characters, and each chapter’s cliffhanger ending keeps the pages turning. Part coming-of-age novel, part historical fiction, this book will appeal to a wide range of readers.” — BookPage.com “Kline expertly weaves the dual narratives of both [characters] as the two form a healing friendship.With a mix of historical and contemporary settings, this successful adaptation of an adult novel is likely to appeal to both young and old.” — School Library Journal

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Book SynopsisTrade Review"[Barrow] steadily resists cliche and tired tropes all the way to the novel's deeply felt, unflinching conclusion. This compelling, closely observed debut charts its appealing characters' difficult journey with clarity and honesty." -- Kirkus Reviews (starred review) "Audrey's emotions swing wildly; she candidly portrays the all-consuming and delicate nature of her situation and the choice she faces. Debut author Barrow opts for realism over a scared-straight approach to teen pregnancy, which readers will appreciate." -- Publishers Weekly "In both its humor and in its aching, You Don't Know Me but I Know You is the most honest book I've read in ages." -- Emery Lord, author of The Start of Me and You and When We Collided "Both relentlessly honest and relentlessly hopeful, You Don't Know Me but I Know You stands out as a book that cares profoundly about the power of friendship and the thrill of getting to know yourself. Above all else, it's a testament to the bravery, brightness, and beauty of teenaged girls." -- Corey Ann Haydu, author of OCD Love Story and Life by Committee "You Don't Know Me but I Know You is a heartfelt, powerful examination of family: the one we're born to, the one we choose, and the one that chooses us. Rebecca Barrow's novel feels all at once heartbreaking, hopeful, and true." -- Janet McNally, author of Girls in the Moon "Honest, nuanced, and achingly authentic, You Don't Know Me but I Know You is both sensitive and unflinching in its portrayal of life-shattering choices and their aftermaths. It's populated with strong female friendships that feel more like a sisterhood." -- Laurie Elizabeth Flynn, author of Firsts

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Book SynopsisTold entirely in text messages, the third book in this addictive series from the acclaimed author of 11 Before 12 is perfect for fans of Lauren Myracle and Rachel Renee Russell. Cece, Gabby, and Prianka can’t wait for Spirit Week, aka the last week of school before summer break!Trade ReviewPraise for TBH, This Is So Awkward: “Get ready to fall in love with these girls who use their humor and wit (and lots and lots of emojis) to right wrongs and build bridges.” — ALA Booklist “Greenwald successfully blends emojis and text to bring the high drama and emotional changes of middle school to life. This first in a new series for preteens and young teens who value friendship and doing the right thing is pretty endearing.” — Kirkus Reviews “In this fine successor to Lauren Myracle’s TTYL and its sequels, Greenwald (11 Before 12) realistically captures the language of texting tweens, including exuberant use of emoji, and how mistakes can be made and tone misunderstood amid rapid-fire digital conversations.” — Publishers Weekly “Enticing and readable.” — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books “Srlsy, idk how Lisa does it. These characters are so real! XOXOXO!! <3” — Lauren Myracle, New York Times bestselling author

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Book SynopsisA funny, suspenseful mystery and unlikely friendship story from New York Times bestselling author Gordon Korman—perfect for fans of Swindle and Ungifted.Keenan has lived all over the world but nowhere quite as strange as Centerlight Island, which is split between the United States and Canada.Trade Review“Korman is reliably at the head of the pack in middle-grade quirkiness, and his fans will be well pleased with this fresh title.” — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books “Korman brings his usual humor and heart to this well-plotted mystery… that sensitively explores themes of friendship and family.” — Publishers Weekly “Korman sketches characters with swift, sure strokes and places them in a distinctive setting… this a book that Korman fans won't want to miss.” — ALA Booklist “The fast-moving, action-packed plot makes this a great choice for reluctant ­readers… A diverting read full of suspense and historical intrigue.” — School Library Journal “Another treat for Korman fans.” — Kirkus Reviews

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Book SynopsisTrade Review“Inspiring and hopeful…. [a] tender coming-of-age story, perfect for fans for Lynda Mullaly Hunt and Ali Benjamin.” — ALA Booklist “Evok[ing] the warmth of home, newfound security, and friendship, Dilloway effectively contrasts Cady’s old life with her new one while examining her muddled emotions.... Those who share the protagonist’s passion for the culinary arts will delight in the easy-to-follow pie recipes following the story’s gratifying conclusion.” — Publishers Weekly “Fans of Anne of Green Gables will find a satisfying story and another heroine to cheer on…. Sweet as pie.” — Kirkus Reviews “Memorable characters and strong writing make this more than just a book about pie.” — School Library Journal “Readers will delight in Cady’s new world of baking and friends and learning that with both, she’ll be able to get through just about anything. This fabulous book about making pies will leave you hungry, while Cady’s journey toward making a life will leave you entirely satisfied.” — Donna Gephart, award-winning author of Lily and Dunkin and In Your Shoes “Margaret Dilloway approaches tough topics with a fine touch. Readers are going to love Cady’s spunk, determination, and grit.” — Karina Yan Glaser, the author of The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street “The writing is lovely, and the main character is sensitively portrayed. Summer of a Thousand Pies is delightful reading for summer or any other season.” — Margarita Engle, Young People’s Poet Laureate and Newbery Honor-winning author of The Surrender Tree

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Book SynopsisAn original, out-of-this-world fable about friendship, teamwork, and persistence, illustrated by double Caldecott Medalist Chris Raschka.It’s up to Giovanni and Lorenzo, Sky Repair Specialists, to fill the sky with stars.Trade ReviewA whimsical tale that creatively introduces three constellations. Dreamlike and quirky. — Kirkus Reviews “This is both an enjoyable introduction to the constellations and an imaginative bedtime story . . . The loosely rhyming text is a pleasure to read aloud. Raschka’s dynamic watercolor illustrations swirl and swoop across the page.” — Horn Book Magazine “[This] friendly fantasy brings the night sky beautifully to life.” — Booklist An unexpected collision of the rustic and the interstellar. [A] folktale-flavored turn on the intergalactic. — Publishers Weekly Arresting watercolor compositions dotted with shining starlight spill across the pages of this original story about a night’s misfortune for a star-walking farmer and his donkey that will leave readers to wonder about the legends of the constellations. — School Library Journal (starred review)

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Book SynopsisErnesto Cisneros, Pura Belpré Award-winning author of Efrén Divided, is back with a hilarious and heartfelt novel about two best friends who must rely on each other in unexpected ways. This year, star basketball player Isaac plans on finally keeping up with his schoolwork.Trade Review"Cisneros always writes characters full of foibles and humor and human warmth, and he really knows his basketball.” — Carlos Hernandez, Pura Belpré-winning author of Sal and Gabi Break the Universe "With characters so true to life that they practically jump off the page, Falling Short is the perfect balance of humor and heart. If books were basketball, author Ernesto Cisneros just made a slam dunk." — Sarah Scheerger, author of Operation Frog Effect "A beautiful Latinx novel about friendship, determination, and the gift of self-acceptance. Cisneros knocks down a game winner with Falling Short." — Newbery Medalist Matt de la Peña "Cisneros’ touching sophomore novel is an ideal pick for sports fans and will reel in reluctant readers." — Kirkus Reviews (starred review) "At every turn, Isaac and Marco support each other in this affirming story of basketball, middle school, friendship, and family, and choosing kindness and determination over easy cowardice or cruelty." — School Library Journal (starred review) "Told through animated alternating first-person chapters, Cisneros’s story not only captures the anxiety—and at times, humor—of trying to measure up to expectations, it also tackles delicate subject matter, such as parental absence and alcohol reliance, with profound sensitivity and nuance. A narrative slam dunk for fans of Donna Barba Higuera and Meg Medina." — Publishers Weekly (starred review) "A well-told story of family, friends, basketball, and life." — Horn Book Magazine "In this novel told through the alternating points of view of both protagonists, readers will closely follow the struggles and insecurities both characters experience while also observing a beautiful and endearing friendship. Cisneros has once again written an inspiring story that will have an immense emotional effect on all who read it." — Booklist

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Book SynopsisThe first book in a new arc in the New York Times–bestselling Amelia Bedelia chapter book series featuring young Amelia Bedelia and her friends!

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Book SynopsisThe second book in a new arc in the bestselling Amelia Bedelia chapter book series featuring young Amelia Bedelia and her friends! It’s a piece of cake!Amelia Bedelia + Good Friends = Super Fun Stories to Read and ShareAre Amelia Bedelia and her friends barking up the wrong tree?

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Book SynopsisAward-winning author Tanita S. Davis delivers a heartwarming and humorous middle grade tale about a young girl who finds her own voice through vlogging and learns to speak out. Perfect for fans for Wendy Mass and Lisa Greenwald and now available in paperback.JC shines like a 4th of July sparkler. She has the best ideas, the biggest, funniest laugh, and the party starts when she arrives. Serena St. John is proud to be known as her best friend.Everything changes when JC returns from the hospital with a new kidney—and a new best friend. Out of the spotlight of JC’s friendship, suddenly things aren’t quite so sparkly in Serena’s world.Lonely Serena works on perfecting her vlogs, hoping to earn a shot at becoming a classroom reporter. If she can be smart and funny on video, why can’t she manage that in real life? If only she could always pause, edit, or delete conversations. It would be so much easier to say the right thTrade Review"Middle school energy forms a bustling backdrop for this clever story of navigating changing relationships and developing a sense of personal identity. Secondary characters and storylines provide humor and pathos while at the center is spirited, smart Serena, someone readers will appreciate and cheer. A delightful multicultural narrative that spotlights friendship and self-awareness." — Kirkus Reviews (starred review) "Serena is a smart, intuitive Black girl with relatable fears and insecurities; as the book progresses, she decides she’s ready to step into the spotlight all on her own. Davis capably touches on matters of chronic illness, mental health, and friendship growing pains in this quiet but impactful slice-of-life novel." — Publishers Weekly "Throughout the story, Serena develops an earnest and sincere voice the world needs to hear. The dialogue is well paced. Davis intersperses day-to-day occurrences with heavier topics such as physical and mental illness and cultural representation [along with a]n appealing cast of family, friends, and classmates." — Horn Book Magazine "[Serena] learns to communicate her feelings, and respect her friends’ boundaries. The book also aptly depicts mental health and the importance of privacy. A diverse and lively cast of characters helps propel the story forward. While Serena is in middle school, the prose reads at a younger level and would appeal to elementary-age children. VERDICT . . . young readers will find in Serena an energetic friend working through the challenges of growing up." — School Library Journal

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