Children’s / Teenage fiction: Friendship stories

Book SynopsisOtter—the irrepressible picture book character from I Am Otter, Otter in Space, and Otter Loves Halloween!—tries to find the perfect job for herself and Teddy. But finding the right job is a lot harder than they thought!Otter: The Best Job Ever!Trade Review"With lots of word repetition and adorable accompanying illustrations, this title is perfect for newly independent readers, who will thoroughly enjoy decoding the text in this "otterly" irresistible story." -- School Library Journal

Read more less

Book SynopsisGet in the Halloween spirit with Otter—the irrepressible picture book character from I Am Otter and Otter in Space, sure to be adored by fans of Llama Llama.Halloween is Otter's favorite holiday.Trade Review"The joyful chaos of everyday life with a child (or otter) permeates Garton's cartoons and should keep kids laughing from start to finish." -- Publishers Weekly "Another wonderful outing with Otter, this latest is also a great way to encourage youngsters who are nervous about celebrating Halloween to get excited about the holiday." -- School Library Journal

Read more less

Book Synopsis“This is a summer neither Annabel nor readers will ever forget.” —School Library JournalPerfect for fans of Bridge to Terabithia and Walk Two Moons, this debut middle grade novel is the story of two girls and the unforgettable summer in which they learn about true friendship and loss.Trade Review"This is a summer neither Annabel nor readers will ever forget." -- School Library Journal "This powerful tale of friendship and hope, made especially poignant by each girl's struggle to repair family relationships, will capture hearts. Add an injured dog...woods made for adventures, and heartbreak that never becomes mawkish, and you have a story about so much more than summer fun." -- Booklist "This will please country girls at heart, those needing to be brave, and those wanting a good summer story of friendship and growth." -- Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisIt’s Dinosaur’s first Valentine's Day ever, and someone has left him a secret gift! Can Danny help his friend solve this Valentine’s Day mystery?First introduced in 1958 with Danny and the Dinosaur, this popular pair is together again in a fun adventure sure to please young readers.

Read more less

Book SynopsisReaders can watch Pinkalicious and Peterrific on the funtastic PBS Kids TV series Pinkalicious & PeterrificWhen Pinkalicious learns about Planet Pink, she has fun imagining life as a Pinktonian alien living on the pinkest planet in the universe!

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisTrade Review"Jolley weaves together frightening new lore and laces it with modern, kid-appropriate humor. A fast-paced read for middle-graders addicted to modern magical adventures." -- Kirkus Reviews "Extremely entertaining and sure to be popular with fans of Rick Riordan's Percy Jackson books and the 39 Clues series." -- School Library Journal "A promising start with a swift pace, a solid protagonist, and a creepy cool cult as a worthy villainous force." -- Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

Read more less

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

Read more less

Book SynopsisIn the classic tradition of George and Martha, Elephant and Piggie, and Frog and Toad comes Moo Moo and Mr. Quackers in their debut, Moo Moo in a Tutu.A cow who wants to be a ballerina?Trade Review"The hilarious speech bubble asides pair perfectly with the bold illustrations to create a winning format for this tale of pluck. A sublimely silly read-aloud for storytime and small group sharing." -- School Library Journal "The uncomplicated cartoon-style illustrations and minimal text-just the duo's dialogue placed neatly in bubbles-make the humor accessible to a wide range." -- Booklist

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis boxed set includes: Amelia Bedelia Makes a Friend, Amelia Bedelia Sleeps Over, Amelia Bedelia Hits the Trail, Amelia Bedelia Tries Her Luck, and Amelia Bedelia Joins the Club.

Read more less

Book SynopsisA heartfelt companion novel to the critically acclaimed Chester and Gus about inclusivity, autism, friendship, and family, perfect for fans of Sara Pennypacker and Kate DiCamillo. After being separated from his family, Franklin becomes an independent cat, until he meets a goofy dog named Chester.Trade Review"A sweetly rendered story of friendship and finding your place. McGovern creates natural conversations between not only Chester and Frankie but also between the animals and their persons, adding wisdom and humor to this gentle narrative. A recommended read for young animal-lovers and those looking for an authentic experience of neurodiversity. A small gem of inclusiveness!" — Booklist Online "An ingenious perspective on the world of neurodiversity—funny and heartfelt. Frankie’s wisdom and growth are models for the rest of us." — Kathryn Erskine, National Book Award winning author of Mockingbird "Charming and funny, thoughtful and tender—a heartwarming story about the power of personal connection and a much needed reminder that sometimes we find those connections in the most unlikely places." — Booki Vivat, New York Times bestselling author of the Frazzled series “Frankie brings a fresh, furry, often humorous, and always honest perspective on family, friendships, and the challenges of overcoming your fears and finding acceptance. A rich blend of humor and heart." — John David Anderson, author of Posted and Ms. Bixby's Last Day Praise for Chester and Gus: “In this delightful novel, Cammie McGovern has somehow managed to channel, with absolute perfection, the endearing voice of an aspiring service dog named Chester. Joyful, inspiring, and completely winning, Chester and Gus is unforgettable.” — Katherine Applegate, #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Newbery Medal winner The One and Only Ivan “Beautifully imagined and deeply affecting, Cammie McGovern’s sensitive portrait of one resilient family and their very special dog demonstrates that the best lives are lived when differences are cherished.” — Leslie Connor, award-winning author of Waiting for Normal and All Rise for the Honorable Perry T. Cook “The quintessential book about a boy and his dog—perfectly beautiful.” — Huffington Post “[Readers] will be charmed by Chester’s warmth and loyalty.” — Publishers Weekly “Gus’ gradual, subtle interactions with his classmates ring true and sympathetic.” — Kirkus Reviews “I loved this! It’s a cross between The One and Only Ivan and Out of My Mind. Kids will love it because it’s a dog story and a school story. Teachers and parents will love it because it’s an intimate look at a family with a non-verbal autistic son. It rang so true for me.” — Cathy Berner, Blue Willow Bookshop (Houston, TX) Praise for Just My Luck: “I loved this portrait of a young boy struggling to find his role in a family determined not to be defined by their differences. Benny’s brave story, told with wry humor, is inspirational.” — Ann M. Martin, New York Times bestselling author of Rain Reign “In narrator Benny, readers find a resilient and very observant 9-year-old who accepts those around him with their strengths and shortcomings alike. His story is insightful and inspirational.” — Kirkus Reviews “In her first middle-grade novel, McGovern brings readers fully into Benny’s troubled thoughts, making a clear distinction between the things that he can’t control (his father’s health, his brother’s autism) and the things that he can. McGovern’s thoughtful depiction of a family facing difficult situations without fracturing, coupled with a gentle message about not being too hard on oneself, will surely speak to middle schoolers with their own slate of worries.” — Publishers Weekly “In her debut novel for middle grade readers, McGovern presents a heart-filled story of a likable boy who doesn’t realize that his natural gifts are recognizable and valued by a supportive family and his teacher Mr. Norris. There are many moments that will ring true to middle grade readers: feeling anxious about friendships, wanting to be noticed, and trying to do the right thing. Recommend this sensitive novel to fans of Lisa Graff’s Absolutely Almost and Rob Buyea’s Because of Mr. Terupt.” — School Library Journal “McGovern’s observations about ordinary-seeming life and about the people around us, about small acts of kindness and healing and forgiveness, are perceptive and thought-provoking.” — The Horn Book “Benny’s first-person narrative radiates with exactly the kind of compassion his mother recommends: to ease your own pain, try to help others. Like many nine-year-olds, Benny can be guileless in one moment and wise beyond his years in another, and his fascination with LEGO Minifigures will likely delight many young readers, who might share his hobby. In addition, Benny’s goodhearted family embraces a well-rounded life, supporting each other even when it’s tough. Highly recommended for fans of realistic fiction by writers such as Ann M. Martin or Lisa Graff.” — ALA Booklist “McGovern writes convincingly about characters trying to figure out how best to live with the complications of a disability, both the person whom it most affects and also those around him or her. She manages to keep Benny’s voice authentic and still draw a rich cast of minor characters. As she does for older teens in Say What You Will and A Step Toward Falling, she offers younger readers a compelling story filled with people they will care about. Benny’s voice deserves to be read aloud in a classroom.” — Voice of Youth Advocates (VOYA)

Read more less

Book SynopsisAnd Sweet Pea happens to recognize the handwriting on one of the envelopes.What she decides to do with that letter sets off a chain of events that will forever change the lives of Sweet Pea DiMarco, her family, and many of the readers of “Miss Flora Mae I?”Trade Review“Murphy creates a wonderfully realistic portrait of tween life in her first middle-grade novel…. Sweet Pea is a treasure of a protagonist.” — ALA Booklist (starred review) “Endearing and funny… An excellent blend of eccentricity, humor, genuine sweetness, and mild drama.” — Kirkus Reviews (starred review) “With gentle humor, ageless wisdom, and charming, genuine characters who represent a diversity of experiences, Murphy’s novel offers all the emotional highs and lows of pitch-perfect middle grade.” — Publishers Weekly (starred review) "Murphy succeeds yet again at crafting a touching, quotable coming-of-age story, this time exploring divorce, shifting friendships, crushes, queerness, and much more." — School Library Journal (starred review) “Full of cringe-worthy but funny seventh grade moments… [there’s also] plenty of room for more serious reflection about the people around her in her small Texas town, a cast diverse in ethnicity, sexual orientation, and body size as well as in attitudes.” — Horn Book Magazine “Successfully handles tough topics with humor.” — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books “Dear Sweet Pea is a truly irresistible story about a family in flux, brimming with humor and heart.” — Rebecca Stead, Newbery Award-winning author of When You Reach Me Praise for PUDDIN’: “Julie Murphy has created the platonic love story of a lifetime. I am wildly in love with Puddin’.” — Becky Albertalli, New York Times bestselling author of Leah on the Offbeat and Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda Praise for PUDDIN’: “Murphy’s plot brims with unlikely friendships, irresistible romance, fabulous fat acceptance, and a kick-ass ending. Buoying.” — Kirkus Reviews (starred review) 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 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)

Read more less

Book SynopsisWith mod, quirky art full of personality from Serge Bloch (Butterflies in My Stomach and The Big Adventure of a Little Line) and a disarming text from Davide Cali (I Didn’t Do My Homework Because .Trade Review“Bibo’s translation of Cali’s text is smooth and sly.” — Publishers Weekly “Collage elements add to the visual slapstick, broad blocks of color hint at the light-versus-dark theme, and Bloch’s loopy line captures chairs, crockery, and city buildings with impulsive spontaneity.” — Publishers Weekly “George is one of those adult characters who could just as well be a child...” — Publishers Weekly “Bonus giggles are provided by George’s crocodile-schnozzed dog, who helps him see the shadow’s potential as a friend.” — Publishers Weekly “Cali subtly explores friendship and solitude with panache and a refreshing lack of condescension. Bloch’s stylish computer-generated illustrations play with shape, color, and perspective, adding another layer of absurdism. Droll.” — Kirkus Reviews “Whimsical black-and-white line drawings—created, according to the front matter, with the artist’sbrain, hands, and computer—clearly enhance the escapades, using swatches of color and texture to highlight various aspects, such as a green plaid for George’s suit and homburg.” — Booklist “Reminiscent of the style and humor of Jon Agee’s books, this import from Italy (clearly set in New York City) is sophisticated in style yet deals with concepts (shadows and companionship) easily understood by young children...[C]ompare and contrast with Mac Barnett’s The Skunk (2015).” — Booklist “The short, clipped words and sentences complement Bloch’s illustrative approach perfectly. It’s as though the writer, Davide Cali, wrote the book with Bloch in mind.” — New York Times Book Review

Read more less

Book Synopsisone young and huge and boisterous—told in four short chapters by Jacky Davis, the bestselling author of the Ladybug Girl series.A perfect choice for emerging readers, fans of Dav Pilkey’s Big Dog and Little Dog, and dog people everywhere!Olive and Pekoe are best friends.Trade Review“Warm, colorful, somehow both fanciful and sophisticated. . . . A good reminder that one of the strongest cases for having a friend who is different is that you get to see the world through a different set of eyes.” — New York Times Book Review “Potter’s impressive expressively naïve-style watercolor, ink, and colored-pencil illustrations perfectly nuance author Davis’s witty text. . . .this clever design visually and textually summarizes the story’s theme of friendship’s togetherness. A delight.” — Kirkus Reviews (starred review) “Davis’s understated, just-the-facts text. . .is the perfect foil for Potter’s expressive art. The illustrations capture the ups-and-downs of canine life and friendship with understanding and humor—especially when it comes to Pekoe’s innocent naiveté. The book will touch the hearts and tickle the funny bones of dog-story readers and friendship-story readers alike.” — Horn Book (starred review) “Davis and Potter celebrate a canine pair’s differences . . . Pekoe’s youthful enthusiasm and Olive’s hard-won wisdom are equally beguiling. Despite their differences, they are loyal friends, focused on what’s most important” — Publishers Weekly “This picture book highlights the joy that can be shared among friends when they respect and celebrate each other’s differences. With simple illustrations and accessible text, this title will delight young readers and help them to appreciate their friendships in new and exciting ways.” — School Library Journal

Read more less

Book Synopsis#1New York Timesbestselling author of The Selection series Kiera Cass is back with her most epic novel yet?a sweeping enemies-to-lovers standalone romance.?Love has a sound. It sounds like a thousand heartbeats happening at the same time.? Princess Annika has lived a life of comfort?but no amount of luxuries can change the fact that her life isn?t her own to control. The king, once her loving father, has gone cold, and Annika will soon be forced into a loveless marriage for political gain.Miles away, small comforts are few and far between for Lennox. He has devoted his life to the Dahrainian army, hoping to one day help them reclaim the throne that was stolen from them. For Lennox, the idea of love is merely a distraction?nothing will stand in the way of fighting for his people.But when love, against all odds, finds them both, they are bound by its call. They can?t possibly be together?but the irresistible thrum of a thousand heartbeats won?t let them stay apart.Kiera Cass brings her signature sparkling romance to this beautiful story of star-crossed lovers and long-held secrets.

Read more less

Book SynopsisAn addictive, irresistible YA novel about two teens from different worlds who fall for each other after a voter registration call turns into a long-distance romance—from Katie Cotugno, the New York Times bestselling author of 99 Days.Trade Review“Cotugno's latest slow-burn romance digs deep…. Thoughtful and thought-provoking, this is a must-read for teens questioning their futures or their own hearts.” — ALA Booklist (starred review) “A realistic and captivating story that speaks to the issues relevant to teens today….Romance, politics, family drama, and more—this one has it all.” — Kirkus Reviews “Cotugno writes with equal sympathy about opinionated characters with differing life experiences and worldviews. For collections where the smart-girl romances of Miranda Kenneally, Jenny Han, and Nandini Bajpai do well.” — School Library Journal "In You Say It First, Katie Cotugno explores the messy victories and sweet imperfections of falling in love across party lines. Meg and Colby are brave and scared, flawed yet true to themselves, and as their relationship grows, we see how the wrong person can come along at exactly the right time. Katie's writing is always full of empathy, humor, and hope, and this book is no different. I absolutely loved it." — Robin Benway, National Book Award-winning and New York Times bestselling author of Far From the Tree

Read more less

Book SynopsisAn addictive, irresistible YA novel about two teens from different worlds who fall for each other after a voter registration call turns into a long-distance romance—from Katie Cotugno, the New York Times bestselling author of 99 Days.Trade Review“Cotugno's latest slow-burn romance digs deep…. Thoughtful and thought-provoking, this is a must-read for teens questioning their futures or their own hearts.” — ALA Booklist (starred review) “A realistic and captivating story that speaks to the issues relevant to teens today….Romance, politics, family drama, and more—this one has it all.” — Kirkus Reviews “Cotugno writes with equal sympathy about opinionated characters with differing life experiences and worldviews. For collections where the smart-girl romances of Miranda Kenneally, Jenny Han, and Nandini Bajpai do well.” — School Library Journal "In You Say It First, Katie Cotugno explores the messy victories and sweet imperfections of falling in love across party lines. Meg and Colby are brave and scared, flawed yet true to themselves, and as their relationship grows, we see how the wrong person can come along at exactly the right time. Katie's writing is always full of empathy, humor, and hope, and this book is no different. I absolutely loved it." — Robin Benway, National Book Award-winning and New York Times bestselling author of Far From the Tree

Read more less

Book SynopsisA powerful YA debut, told with astonishing insight and wit, about the depths and boundaries of true friendship and obsessive teenage love—perfect for fans of Sarah Dessen, E.Trade Review“Anica Mrose Rissi masterfully conveys the irresistible power of physical attraction and how that intoxication can unexpectedly turn toxic. I’m afraid too many readers will relate to this unflinchingly honest portrayal of an abusive first love, which is precisely why Always Forever Maybe is an essential book.” — Megan McCafferty, New York Times bestselling author of the Jessica Darling series “Equal parts crackling tension and sparkling humor; the worst relationships have to offer and the best. It’s the rarest book that manages to be so important, so emotionally resonant, and so utterly propulsive and compelling all at the same time. You won’t be able to put it down.” — Jeff Zentner, Morris Award-winning author of The Serpent King and Goodbye Days “Rissi’s extraordinary YA debut wraps you up with beautiful writing and complicated, yet all too realistic characters. Both heartbreaking and stunning, Always Forever Maybe will stay with you long after turning the last page.” — Elizabeth Eulberg, author of Better Off Friends “Relatable and realistic, hopeful and empowering, Always Forever Maybe adresses an important subject: when ‘love’ isn’t what it seems.” — Deb Caletti, author of National Book Award finalist Honey, Baby, Sweetheart “Anica Mrose Rissi’s debut novel is a masterful mix of light and dark—sometimes tender, often funny, always brutally honest. Always terrifyingly real. This book will break your heart—then piece it back together, even stronger than before.” — Robin Wasserman, author of Girls on Fire “Ricci’s first YA novel gives an accurate but heartbreaking picture of an abusive relationship. The story has mature language and sexual scenes, as well as realistic situations, which older teens will appreciate.” — School Library Journal “Rissi’s tale is elegantly written with a keen insight into teen relationships... An absorbing tale of a fatal attraction and its consequences.” — Kirkus Reviews “This emotionally resonant YA debut by Rissi meaningfully highlights known patterns of intimate-partner abuse and speaks to the joy and importance of enduring friendship.” — Publishers Weekly

Read more less

Book Synopsis BFFAEs Prianka, Cece, and Gabby are ready to have an unforgettable summer—but they don’t agree on what that means.For Cece and Gabby, everything is CAMP, CAMP, CAMP! Gabby won’t stop obsessing over the likes on her camp photos while Cece won’t pick up her phone at all.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 “Srlsy, IDK how Lisa does it. These characters are so real! XOXOXO!! <3” — Lauren Myracle, New York Times bestselling author “Enticing and readable.” — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books

Read more less

Book SynopsisTrade Review“In this follow-up to SO DONE, Paula Chase explores the unraveling friendship of two middle school boys, Rollie and Simp. This unsparing but tender novel takes the reader down some dangerous streets even as it reveals a hopeful world beyond. Chase’s writing pops off the page. I loved DOUGH BOYS!” — -Barbara Dee, Author of Everything I Know About You “Chase displays her signature flair for conveying black youths’ language of intimacy. . .A thoughtful exploration of the soul-fulfilling heaviness of life in black urban communities.” — Kirkus Reviews “This companion novel to So Done features best friends Rollie Matthews and Simp Wright, whose middle-school basketball coach has begun grooming them to become drug lookout boys. . . . Fans . . . will love the various cameos of familiar characters, but there’s universal appeal . . . in this bittersweet look at friendship in the hood.” — Booklist “[Chase] imbues her writing with style and phraseology that paint a vivid picture of this distinct world and the young Black teens who feel the weight of it upon their shoulders. Relatively hopeful endings for both boys . . . wrap up a smart and stirring take on growing up and apart.” — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books “The definitions of bravery and commitment are put to the test for the middle-school duo, as the boys determine where their true loyalties lie. The alternating third-person narratives pull no punches linguistically. . . . Fans of Jason Reynolds and Angie Thomas will enjoy this rough and relatable read, whose conclusion provides no easy answers.” — Horn Book Magazine

Read more less

Book SynopsisTrade Review“A delightful meditation on love and community. The prose reads like a song, and the story is simple and universal. ...Useful as a soothing bedtime selection or as a short read-aloud. Perfect for sharing on Valentine’s Day and every day.” — School Library Journal “Parents and their little ones will love this disarmingly simple poem about the power of love and community to vanquish fear and darkness. ...Berger’s message is gorgeously emphasized by collage illustrations that capture the essence of the words.” — Booklist “Berger populates this buoying book with people of all hues, genders, and love configurations. ...An earnest, moving expression of what the world needs now—and what children have always needed: love, sweet love.” — Kirkus Reviews “Illustrations are striking and poignant, combining realistic, fantastical, and metaphorical elements. ...it exudes an almost magical calm.” — Publishers Weekly

Read more less

Book SynopsisAcceptance, understanding, and hope shine through in this heartfelt coming of age story by Eleven and Holding author Mary Penney, perfect for fans of Lindsey Stoddard and Lisa Graff.After a lifetime of being homeschooled, Ham Hudson is hoping that a new year in a new school will help make him a whole new Ham.Trade Review"Penney’s characters are memorable as are the early-teen feelings and situations that they face. A quick, satisfying piece of realistic fiction that smoothly incorporates one boy’s exploration of dawning identity." — Booklist Praise for Eleven and Holding: “A sweet heartbreaker of a book. As important as it is endearing.” — Ali Benjamin, author of The Thing About Jellyfish “Full of characters who start out stoic and scrappy but who slowly reveal themselves—to one another and to us—in the most honest and riveting and heartachey ways.” — Liz Garton Scanlon, Caldecott Honor Winner for All the World “Macy’s candid narrative voice and expressive observations... bring humor and pathos to Penney’s tender, emotionally satisfying story.” — Publishers Weekly “Driven by attractive, colorful characters, this tale is immersive and engaging... Lively, funny, tender without being syrupy, and full of life.” — Kirkus Reviews “Penney’s novel brings to light some of the issues families of military personnel face... Readers will enjoy Macy’s independent, adventurous spirit in this story about growing up, friendship, and forgiveness.” — Horn Book Magazine “An emotional coming-of-age tale that will resonate with readers who appreciate contemporary, realistic, character-driven novels.” — School Library Journal "Penney is adept at showing the facets of the adolescent experience like a diamond: a beautiful thing to behold, but one with sharp edges. Recommended for ­readers who crave books that have all the feels and that reflect their own lived experiences with just the right touch of whimsy." — School Library Journal

Read more less

Book SynopsisWith the help of family and friends, he’ll have to throw off the mask he’s been hiding behind and face the fears that have kept him on the sidelines if he ever wants to move forward.Trade Review“The strength and beauty of this novel lie in the ways in which a community gathers around Noah. You’ll bawl at the ending, because it is so very real.” — New York Times Book Review “Wonderful. Poignant. Beautifully written. Perfect voice. Do not miss this book. Mascot is a masterpiece.” — Roland Smith, New York Times bestselling author of Peak, Zach’s Lie, and Cryptid Hunters “Mascot is the kind of book that makes me want to dress up in a costume and loudly tell the world about it.” — Obert Skye, bestselling author of the Leven Thumps series “Noah’s dilemma is universal: the struggle to rebuild identity when what once defined us no longer exists. Highlights the challenges of adapting to puberty and sudden disability at the same time.” — Kirkus Reviews “This action-packed, humorous story contains well-developed, dynamic characters who are thoughtful and relatable.” — School Library Journal “It is heartening to see young characters who don’t hesitate at their differences or care what other people think. As Noah comes to terms with his life-changing accident in this refreshingly fastpaced novel, readers will have an easy time cheering him on as he moves toward recovery.” — Booklist “The comedy balances accessibly with Noah’s grief, and readers will appreciate his return to the field.” — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books “John blends humor and heartache in this powerful, satisfying coming-of-age story that handles Noah’s experience of paraplegia with honesty and sensitivity.” — Publishers Weekly

Read more less

Book SynopsisA young girl preparing for her bat mitzvah discovers she has mysterious abilities in this magical contemporary coming-of-age story from the beloved author of Orphan Island.Hi, whoever is reading this. I’m Zipporah Chava McConnell, but everyone calls me Zippy.Things used to be simple—until a few weeks ago. Now my best friend, Bea, is acting funny; everyone at school thinks I’m weird; and my mom is making me start preparing for my bat mitzvah, even though we barely ever go to synagogue. In fact, the only thing that still seems to make sense is magic.See, the thing is, I’m a witch. I’ve been casting spells since I was little. And even if no one else wants to believe in magic anymore, it’s always made sense to me, always felt true. But I was still shocked the day I found a strange red book at the library and somehow...I conjured something. A girl, actually. A beautiful girl with no memory, and wings like

Read more less