Children’s / Teenage personal and social topics: Death and grief

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Book SynopsisIn the same vein as Jandy Nelson and Gayle Forman comes a novel from the gifted author of Faking Normal, Courtney C. Stevens, about hope and courage and the struggle to overcome the pain of loss.Sadie Kingston is living in the aftermath. A year after surviving a car accident that killed her friend Trent and left her body and face scarred, she can't move forward. The only person who seems to understand her is Trent's brother, Max.As Sadie begins to fall for Max, she's unsure if she is truly healed enough to be with him. But Max looks at her scars and doesn't shy away. And Max knows about the list she writes in the sand at the beach every night, the list of things that Sadie knows she must accomplish before she can move on from the accident. And while he can help her with number six (kiss someone without flinching), she knows she's on her own with number three (forgive Gina and Gray) and the rest of the seemingly impossible tasks that must be

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Book SynopsisA romantic and exhilarating historical adventure about a girl who must unlock the secrets within Paradise Lost to save her father—perfect for fans of Revolution and Code Name Verity—from acclaimed author Anne Blankman, whose debut novel, Prisoner of Night and Fog, was a Sydney Taylor Notable Book for Teens in 2015Six years have passed since England’s King Charles II returned from exile to reclaim the throne, ushering in a new era of stability for his subjects.Except for Elizabeth Milton. The daughter of notorious poet John Milton, Elizabeth has never known her place in this shifting world—except by her father’s side. By day she helps transcribe his latest masterpiece, the epic poem Paradise Lost, and by night she learns languages and sword fighting. Although she does not dare object, she suspects that he’s training her for a mission whose purpose she cannot fathom.Until one night th

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Book SynopsisBefore I Fall meets ''bah, humbug'' in this contemporary YA reimagining of A Christmas Carol from New York Times bestselling author Cynthia Hand.On Christmas Eve five years ago, seventeen-year-old Holly Chase was visited by three Ghosts who showed her how selfish and spoiled she''d become. They tried to convince her to mend her ways. She didn''t. And then she died.Now she''s stuck working for the top-secret company Project Scrooge''as their latest Ghost of Christmas Past. So far, Holly''s afterlife has been miserable. But this year''s Scrooge is different. This year''s Scrooge might change everythingThe Afterlife of Holly Chase is a witty, poignant, and insightful novel about life, love, and seizing second (or third) chances, perfect for readers who loved Before I Fall or Dash & Lily''s Book of Dares.

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Book SynopsisBefore I Fall meets ?bah, humbug? in this contemporary YA reimagining of A Christmas Carol from New York Times bestselling author Cynthia Hand.On Christmas Eve five years ago, seventeen-year-old Holly Chase was visited by three Ghosts who showed her how selfish and spoiled she'd become. They tried to convince her to mend her ways. She didn't. And then she died.Now she's stuck working for the top-secret company Project Scrooge as their latest Ghost of Christmas Past. So far, Holly's afterlife has been miserable. But this year's Scrooge is different. This year's Scrooge might change everything...The Afterlife of Holly Chase is a witty, poignant, and insightful novel about life, love, and seizing second (or third) chances, perfect for readers who loved Before I Fall or Dash & Lily's Book of Dares.

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Book Synopsis*A Junior Library Guild Selection*From critically acclaimed author Ali Standish (The Ethan I Was Before), the story of one girl’s journey to a magical seaside town, where she uncovers her family’s long hidden secrets and ultimately finds truth and redemption. Fans of Sharon Creech and Rebecca Stead will be captivated by this story filled with warm humor, mystery, whimsy, and characters you can’t let go. A modern classic in the making!For years, Miranda has stared at postcards of August Isle, Florida. The town where her mother spent her summers as a girl. The town that Miranda has always ached to visit. She just never wanted it to happen this way.When she arrives on the Isle, alone and uncertain, to stay the summer with an old friend of her mother’s, Miranda discovers a place even more perfect than she imagined. And she finds a new friend in Sammy, “A

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Book Synopsis“Unforgettable and impossible to put down—this novel is heart-pounding suspense at its best. A stunning debut.” —Kami Garcia, #1 New York Times bestselling coauthor of Beautiful Creatures and author of The Lovely RecklessThe Hidden Memory of Objects is a highly original and beautifully written debut mystery novel with a speculative element, perfect for readers who loved Gayle Forman’s If I Stay. Megan Brown’s brother, Tyler, is dead, but the cops are killing him all over again. They say he died of a drug overdose, potentially suicide—something Megan cannot accept. Determined to figure out what happened in the months before Tyler’s death, Megan turns to the things he left behind. After all, she understands the stories objects can tell—at fifteen, she is a gifted collage artist with a flair for creating found-object pieces. However, Megan now realizes

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Book SynopsisWritten by award-winning author Tony Abbott and perfect for fans of The Ethan I Was Before and The Thing About Jellyfish, this bittersweet middle grade novel follows the ghost of Denis Egan as he teams up with his living twin brother to solve the mystery of his death.Trade Review“Abbott steadily guides readers through a dark quagmire of questions, anger, and fraying family bonds that are nevertheless held together by love. Surprising twists and turns braid the story’s disparate parts into a revelatory whole that brings healing to its characters and won’t be forgotten by its readers anytime soon.” — Booklist (starred review) “Luminous and revelatory. A riveting mystery that I couldn’t put down for the life (or death) of me.” — Lauren Myracle, New York Times bestselling author of the Wishing Day series “A brutally moving and deeply layered story full of heart and hope.” — Leslie Connor, award-winning author of All Rise for the Honorable Perry T. Cook “Witty, suspenseful and full of hope, Denis Ever After fearlessly travels into the dark mysteries of life, the afterlife and the spaces in between.” — Shelf Awareness “A taut and twisted murder mystery with a profound reflection on grief and learning to move on. Denis comes to see the “thousand, thousand threads” that bind people and realizes that the powerful connections forged through love cannot be broken, even in death.” — Publishers Weekly “Abbott keeps the tension high and the mystery dark and unsettling, leavening it with several flashes of humor and intriguing imaginative speculation about the dead. Page-turning.” — Kirkus Reviews Praise for Tony Abbott: “A touching story of friendship that is easy to read yet hard to forget.” — School Library Journal ★ “Beautifully crafted and written.” — Publishers Weekly (starred review) “Full of mystery and intrigue, this book had me completely transfixed.” — Ridley Pearson, New York Times bestselling author of the Kingdom Keepers series “The book is so enticing that readers will go along even when the going is rough.” — Booklist “With every narrative turn, Tony Abbott brings these never-before-seen perspectives into view... Untold. Unforgettable.” — Rita Williams-Garcia, author of One Crazy Summer “With its portrayal of a family on the verge of falling apart following the death of a child and the young person’s narration from the afterlife, this suggests The Lovely Bones shaped for a younger audience…the story is handled with remarkable grace.” — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books

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Book SynopsisThe stunning sequel to Maria Dahvana Headley’s bestselling, critically acclaimed Magonia tells the story of one girl who must make an impossible choice between two families, two homes—and two versions of herself.Aza Ray is back on earth.Trade Review"Gorgeous, hopeful, heroic, as far-out fantastical as a lost Bowie song-a wild and wonderful novel that makes you glad to be alive." -- Libba Bray, New York Times bestselling author of Lair of Dreams "The stunner in this novel is the romance between Aza and Jason that... transforms slowly to something that is broken and imperfect but also intentional and heart-wrenchingly beautiful. Readers [will] happily return here after diving into that splendid start." -- Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books "The dual-voiced narrative... offers intriguing characterization and gender dynamics, paired with fascinatingly complex world-building that readers familiar with the series will especially enjoy." -- Voice of Youth Advocates (VOYA) "A well-paced, cinematic adventure." -- Kirkus PRAISE FOR MAGONIA: "Maria Dahvana Headley is a firecracker: she's whip smart with a heart, and she writes like a dream." -- Neil Gaiman, bestselling author of The Graveyard Book and Coraline "Magonia is magical. A high-flying, refreshing, and literally out-of-the-blue fantasy with great characters, emotional depth, and a unique fantasy world that I never saw coming." -- Victoria Aveyard, #1 New York Times Bestselling author of Red Queen "Headley riffs like an improv comic... funny, furious, and vulnerable. The haunting conclusion leaves many issues unresolved, but the ferocious, intelligent power of Aza and Jason's bond is completely affirmed. Sweeping, strange, and richly imagined, the novel is ideal for fans of Laini Taylor's Daughter of Smoke & Bone." -- Publishers Weekly (starred review) "With lush writing, memorable world building, and an array of peculiar characters, this is sure to thrill readers looking for a distinctive, imaginative tale in the vein of Laini Taylor and Neil Gaiman." -- Booklist "The painful, sarcastic beauty of Aza's interactions down below in the everyday world begs comparisons to John Green's The Fault in Our Stars." -- Kirkus "The book races to an epic confrontation that will leave readers thrilled... romance, danger, and world-building combine." -- School Library Journal "The sweeping, lyrical language in both parts of the book is captivating, with haunting scenes woven from carefully chosen, sharply evocative descriptions." -- Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books "[A] weird, unique, and beautifully crafted book." -- Voice of Youth Advocates (VOYA)

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Book SynopsisHis mother burned too fast and inflicted a debilitating rebirth sickness on herself.Julian realizes that he’s going to have to burn at some point—especially when he becomes a target for Nicholas, the manipulative leader of the Burners, the school’s suicide club.Trade Review“[Nine] has strong pacing and…a gratifying ending. A good addition to any YA thriller collection.” — School Library Journal “[Nine’s] energetic writing style and fast pace will keep readers engaged.” — Kirkus Reviews “A timely, undeniably fascinating concept… readers intrigued by alternate realities will be hooked.” — ALA Booklist “A provocative fantasy read.” — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books

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Book SynopsisTrade Review“Rufener’s treatment of grief is nuanced and deeply felt, and Aggi’s and Max’s complex feelings about themselves, their families, and their aborted romance drive the skillfully crafted narrative… A compelling story about grief told through the voices of two expertly drawn protagonists.” — Kirkus Reviews “A powerful story about grief, loss, and the restorative nature of love, Since We Last Spoke will stay with you long after you’ve finished.” — Amber Smith, New York Times bestselling author of The Way I Used to Be and The Last to Let Go “Rufener handles topics such as love, loss, and grief with a deft and steady hand, intermingling moments of humor and warmth as two families learn to navigate the tragedy that’s intertwined them forever.” — Miranda Asebedo, author of The Deepest Roots “Readers who enjoy narratives of resilience after devastating loss will appreciate Aggi and Max’s struggles to recover and find each other again.” — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books

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Book SynopsisTrade Review“Though the author intricately portrays Sloane’s grief and guilt, her poignant take on the butterfly effect—including thought-provoking references to the Holocaust and its legacy—explores not only suicide and its aftermath, but survivors’ capacity to heal. …This is a sympathetic, thoughtful exploration of depression, suicide, grief, and healing.” — Kirkus Reviews “An equal parts heartbreaking and heartwarming story about family secrets, the legacies of loss, and the ways we put ourselves back together after we’ve been shattered. The Survival List shows us how far we’ll go to understand the people we love, even after they’re gone. I couldn’t put it down.” — Julie Buxbaum, New York Times bestselling author of Tell Me Three Things “Nobody writes about family secrets with the grace, compassion, and intrigue of Courtney Sheinmel. The Survival List is a work of deep empathy, reminding us that we can never fully understand what’s going on in someone else’s life, but that there is enormous value in trying to find out.” — Leila Sales, author of This Song Will Save Your Life “With delicate balance, Sheinmel illuminates the suffering going on behind the scenes in daily lives that can lead to desperate acts and the hollowed-out aftermath of those left behind.” — Booklist "Sheinmel treats the topics of suicide and depression with nuance and compassion, beautifully conveying Sloane’s feelings of guilt for not being able to save Talley while gently, realistically refuting them." — Horn Book Magazine PRAISE FOR COURTNEY SHEINMEL: “With powerful messages of family and self-reliance, Sheinmel’s coming-of-age tale captivates with its masterful storytelling style and intricate detail.” — Publishers Weekly (starred review) “Riveting and heartbreaking.” — Kirkus Reviews “Textured, rich, and evocative.” — Lauren Oliver, New York Times bestselling author of Delirium and Before I Fall “A terrific read - smart, sexy, and shockingly scandalous. Sheinmel is at her absolute best.” — Sarah Mlynowski, author of Ten Things We Did (And Probably Shouldn’t Have) “A deliciously decadent story of glamour, family secrets, and the twisted legacy of a tortured past. In other words, everything I’ve ever wanted, all in one book.” — Robin Wasserman, author of The Waking Dark “…a great read so full of surprises and twists that I kept saying out loud, ‘I didn’t see that coming.’” — Liane Freed, Watchung Booksellers, Montclair, NJ “ A richly told coming of age story of good intentions and family secrets, I read straight through, enjoying every last detail. This surely is a winner.” — Angela Mann, Kepler’s Books, Menlo Park, CA

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Book SynopsisTrade Review“In crisp, colorful, emotion-rich paintings, Brian Lies chronicles the hollow depths of bereavement and the eventual rekindling of love.” — Wall Street Journal “Spare and beautifully phrased...Lies’s rich colors and expressive use of light are evident throughout this picture book, which acknowledges grief and delivers a hopeful message with subtlety, empathy and eloquence.” — Booklist (starred review) “The polished, jaunty spreads that open this story by Lies give little hint of the deep emotion to come. ...The story of how Evan finds his way through his grief rings true, and Lies’s atmospherically lit, exquisitely drafted paintings will absorb readers as they trace Evan’s journey through mourning.” — Publishers Weekly (starred review) “The story is simply and subtly told with admirably genuine emotion, but the textured, strong-hued art is the real standout. Charming images...are to savor. ...Reassuring and clear, this is a heartfelt story about loss and discovering that one can love again.” — Kirkus Reviews “With tender restraint, author and illustrator Brian Lies has crafted a deeply felt story of new hope and healing after loss...The pacing is flawless, and the emotions are never forced. ...Understated yet powerful, The Rough Patch is a story that stays with you.” — BookPage “Grief is the watchword—though it’s never stated—in The Rough Patch, a weepy and wonderful picture book by Brian Lies. ...As Evan’s sorrow turns to rage and then destruction, the reader watches with distress and then with rising hope as the garden, with time, offers the grief-stricken fox a way back to happiness.” — Wall Street Journal

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Book SynopsisA tender and fantastical adventure story perfect for fans of Coraline.After Cecelia Dahl’s little brother, Celadon, dies tragically, his soul goes where all souls go: the Land of Yesterday—and Cecelia is left behind in a fractured world without him. Her beloved house’s spirit is crumbling beyond repair, her father is imprisoned by sorrow, and worst of all, her grief-stricken mother abandons the land of the living to follow Celadon into Yesterday.It’s up to Cecelia to put her family back together, even if that means venturing into the dark and forbidden Land of Yesterday on her own. But as Cecilia braves a hot-air balloon commanded by two gnomes, a sea of daisies, and the Planet of Nightmares, it’s clear that even if she finds her family, she might not be able to save them.And if she’s not careful, she might just become a lost soul herself, trapped forever in Yesterday.

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Book SynopsisPatricia MacLachlan, beloved author of the Newbery Medal-winning Sarah, Plain and Tall, has crafted another lyrical and touching novel for young readers about finding hope after the loss of a loved one. This middle grade novel is an excellent choice for tween readers in grades 5 to 6, especially during homeschooling. It’s a fun way to keep your child entertained and engaged while not in the classroom. Declan O’Brien always had a gentle word to share, odd phrases he liked to repeat, and songs to sing while he played basketball. His favorite song was Dona Nobis Pacem, “Grant Us Peace.” His family loved him deeply and always knew they were loved in return.But a terrible accident one day changes their lives forever, and Fiona and Finn O’Brien are left without a father. Their mother is at a loss. What words are there to guide them through such overwhelming grief?At the suggestion of

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Book SynopsisPatricia MacLachlan, beloved author of the Newbery Medal-winning Sarah, Plain and Tall, has crafted another lyrical and touching novel for young readers about finding hope after the loss of a loved one.Trade Review★ “MacLachlan is the master of quiet books that pack an emotional wallop. My Father’s Words finds the author in her element. MacLachlan provides a beautifully nuanced portrait of one family’s recovery after tragedy. This book feels as direct and true as a dog looking you straight in the eyes.” — The New York Times Book Review ★ “Newbery Medalist MacLachlan is known for writing heart-tugging stories in spare style, as she did in Sarah, Plain and Tall. And that’s what she does here as readers meet Fiona and Finn. Deeply moving and uplifting in unexpected ways.” — Booklist (starred review) ★ “Key relationships in her own life inspired this characteristically taut and resonant novel by Newbery Medalist MacLachlan. MacLachlan masterfully mingles core themes in this slim volume: the power of words and song, memories and family, the mutually redemptive human-canine bond, and ‘the eternal fitness of things.’” — Publishers Weekly (starred review) ★ “With her customary precise, spare language, infused with emotional intelligence, MacLachlan takes readers from shocked grief to a way to live again, fundamental truths dropped carefully and delicately for young readers to comprehend in their own time. A flawless story about resilience, hope, healing, and the eternal fitness of things.” — Kirkus Reviews (starred review) “A gently flowing story. This heartwarming title from an acclaimed author is a solid choice for school and public libraries seeking new bibliotherapy titles for children on loss and grief.” — School Library Journal “The Newbery Medalist Patricia MacLachlan is at the top of her game with this poignant, powerful novel about finding purpose and an outlet for grief at a shelter for animals.” — Washington Parent “A flawless, reflective and ultimately redemptive novel [that] gently addresses loss, grief, hope and healing in the very best of ways.” — Port Huron Times Herald “Simple prose conveys emotions with gentle humor and beautifully chosen words. A family or classroom read-aloud full of insight for all.” — Providence Journal Praise for THE POET’S DOG: “Magical. A quiet, elegant, poignant story suffused with humor, heart, and goodness.” — Kirkus Reviews (starred review) “A spare, moving tale. Using simple words that even youngest readers will understand and enjoy, MacLachlan tackles subjects such as death and mourning with understated grace.” — Publishers Weekly (starred review) “Readers will find their own jewel in this gem of a book.” — Booklist (starred review) Praise for THE TRUTH OF ME: “Brief but emotionally intense...MacLachlan demonstrates her mastery of elegantly unfolding a tale and gently plucking at readers’ heartstrings without taking a maudlin tone.” — Publishers Weekly (starred review) Praise for KINDRED SOULS: “MacLachlan handles a familiar theme with grace, providing a lens into an uncanny intergenerational bond, as well as the kindness and generosity of love.” — Publishers Weekly (starred review) Praise for WORD AFTER WORD AFTER WORD: “Showing great respect for her readers and her craft, Newbery Award winner Patricia MacLachlan makes every word count in Lucy’s smooth-flowing, economic narrative.” — Booklist (starred review)

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Book SynopsisTrade Review“The combination of a murder mystery and the breathless onset of a new romance forces Ava to confront the trauma of her own violation, while offering readers both narrative suspense and deeper than usual insight into the day-to-day struggles of survivors... offers hope and strength straight from Ava’s arc as she becomes more than the thing that happened to her.” — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books (starred review) “Compelling and thought-provoking, this book is SADIE meets THE LOVELY BONES. Would recommend for people looking for a deep, psychological, and challenging but ultimately pensive and raw read.” — YA Books Central "Like the worms in the soil of Ava’s visions, All the Things We Do in the Dark will crawl into readers’ viscera and stay under their skin." — BookPage Praise for DEFY THE DARK: “Sixteen darkly alluring stories relate horrid and extraordinary events that can occur only in the absence of light. Each uniquely eerie, goose bump-raising tale confidently journeys into the unknown, and almost every one has a thread of teen romance.” — Kirkus Reviews Praise for ALL OUT: “Sumptuous language, plentiful historical detail, and satisfying endings....Readers searching for positive, nuanced, and authentic queer representation—or just a darn good selection of stories—need look no further than this superb collection.” — Kirkus Reviews (starred review) “This anthology of distinct stories and experiences is exceptional in scope and quality, and gives voice to the experiences that have long existed but often go unrepresented.” — Publishers Weekly (starred review) “LGBTQIA story collections are scarce, but even if they weren’t, this one would be essential.” — Booklist

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Book SynopsisWhen Emma discovers the first spot, ''like a tiny bright moon'' on her left foot, she''s at the funeral of her grandmother, who had been her best friend as well. The diagnosis is vitiligo, a skin condition triggered by stress. Creating a large multigenerational cast, Standish knits an absorbing story of loss, identity, and human connections. A rewarding, realistic novel, illuminated by magical elements. —Booklist (starred review)Wonder meets Some Kind of Happiness in this powerful tween novel from Ali Standish, author of the Carnegie Medal nominee The Ethan I Was Before and August Isle. While her grandmother was alive, Emma’s world was filled with enchantment. But now Gram is gone, and suddenly strange spots are appearing on Emma’s skin. Soon, she’s diagnosed with vitiligo—a condition that makes patches of

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Book SynopsisWhen Emma discovers the first spot, ''like a tiny bright moon'' on her left foot, she''s at the funeral of her grandmother, who had been her best friend as well. The diagnosis is vitiligo, a skin condition triggered by stress. Creating a large multigenerational cast, Standish knits an absorbing story of loss, identity, and human connections. A rewarding, realistic novel, illuminated by magical elements. —Booklist (starred review)Wonder meets Some Kind of Happiness in this powerful tween novel from Ali Standish, author of the Carnegie Medal nominee The Ethan I Was Before and August Isle. While her grandmother was alive, Emma’s world was filled with enchantment. But now Gram is gone, and suddenly strange spots are appearing on Emma’s skin. Soon, she’s diagnosed with vitiligo—a condition that makes patches of

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Book SynopsisFrom debut author Cameron Kelly Rosenblum comes a stunning teen novel that tackles love, grief, and mental health as one girl must process her friend’s death and ultimately learn how to stand in her own light. Perfect for fans of All the Bright Places and We Were Liars. It’s the summer before senior year. Reid is in the thick of Scofield High’s in-crowd thanks to her best friend, Hattie, who has been her social oxygen since middle school.But summer is when Hattie goes to her family’s Maine island home. Instead of sitting inside for eight weeks, waiting for her to return, Reid and their friend, Sam, enter into a pact—to live it up, one party at a time. But days before Hattie is due home, Reid finds out the shocking news that Hattie has died by suicide. Driven by a desperate need to understand what went wrong, Reid searches for answers.In doing so, she uncovers painful secrets about the person she thought she knew better than herself. And the truth will force Reid to reexamine everything.

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Book SynopsisTradition meets People Like Us in this timely and haunting YA contemporary standalone that tackles the contagious nature of toxic masculinity at an elite New England boarding school clinging to its past, and the sexual assault that changes everything.WHO WILL YOU BE AT LYCROFT PHELPS?This is the question all Lycroft applicants want to be asked. It means they’ve been accepted to one of the most prestigious private high schools in the nation.Over 150 years is plenty of time for traditions to bake into the campus’s bricks and ivy. Ceremonies. Athletic rivalries. Secret societies. Pranks taken too far. But navigating it all will make Charlotte (perfect, straight-A student), Max (scholarship kid and STEM whiz), and Quinn (artist, dreamer, Lycroft legacy) question all they thought they knew about themselves…and the school.Especially when Quinn’s sexual assault becomes p

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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 SynopsisMatt Wallace, author of Bump, presents a personal, humorous, and body-positive middle grade standalone about a fat kid who wants to stop his bullies . . . and enlists the help of the world’s most infamous supervillain. Perfect for fans of Holly Goldberg Sloan, Julie Murphy, and John David Anderson!Max’s first year of middle school hasn’t been easy. Eighth-grade hotshot Johnny Pro torments Max constantly, for no other reason than Max is fat and an easy target. Max wishes he could fight back, but he doesn’t want to hurt Johnny . . . just make him feel the way Max feels.In desperation, Max writes to the only person he thinks will understand: imprisoned supervillain Master Plan, a “gentleman of size.” To his surprise, Master Plan wants to help! He suggests a way for Max to get even with Johnny Pro, and change how the other kids at school see them both.And it works! When Master Plan’s help pays off for Max in ways he couldn’t have imagined, he starts gaining confidence—enough to finally talk to Marina, the girl he likes in class who shares his passion for baking. With Master Plan in his corner, anything seems possible . . . but is there a price to pay for the supervillain’s help?* A Junior Library Guild selection *

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Book SynopsisA story that begins where too many others end, this stunningly written and unflinchingly authentic tale of love, loss, and hope will touch fans of All the Bright Places and Girl in Pieces.Life’s tough when you didn’t expect to be living it. But now that Journey has a future, she apparently also has to figure out what that future’s supposed to look like.Some days the pain feels as fresh as that day: the day she attempted suicide. Her parents don’t know how to speak to her. Her best friend cracks all the wrong jokes. Her bipolar II disorder feels like it swallows her completely.But other days—they feel like revelations. Like meeting the dazzling Etta, a city college student who is a world unto herself. Or walking into the office of the volunteer hotline, and discovering a community as simultaneously strong and broken as she is.Or uncovering the light within herself that she didn’t know e

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Book SynopsisFor readers of This Is How It Ends and All the Bright Places, How We Ricochet takes an intimate and unflinching look into the devastating consequences of a mass shooting for one girl and her close-knit family, from Faith Gardner, acclaimed author of Girl on the Line. It seems sometimes a charade that we continue celebrating in the face of relentless tragedy. How dare we? But then . . . what else is there to do?Betty’s mom needed new pants for her job.That was why Betty was at the mall with her mom and sister when the shooting started.Afterward, nothing is the same.There are no easy answers to be found, and Betty’s search for them leads her to Michael, the brother of the shooter. But this path only shows Betty one thing: that everything she thought she knew—about herself, about the world around her—can change in a heartbeat.A moving, powerful

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Book SynopsisSet against the backdrop of Caribbean folklore, Lisa Stringfellow’s spellbinding middle grade debut tells of a grieving girl and a vengeful mermaid and will enchant readers who loved Kacen Callender’s Hurricane Child or Christian McKay Heidicker’s Scary Stories for Young Foxes.Trade Review“Imbued with a magic that felt as real as the concrete and beloved world in which it is set, this story moves with a plot that is both surefooted and wild, both inexorable and surprising, both cerebral and emotional. I loved it so much.” — Kelly Barnhill, author of the Newbery-winning novel The Girl Who Drank the Moon “Captivating and creative, magical and moving, this enchanting tale about grief and abiding love will hold you spellbound. What a joy and honor to welcome this brilliant new voice, as beautiful as the ocean and as bright as a mermaid’s tears.” — Padma Venkatraman, Walter Award winning author of The Bridge Home "Stringfellow weaves an enchanting tale of loss, longing, and discovery infused with Caribbean folklore. Readers will be captivated by Kela’s story and become invested in her journey as she tries to deal with the grief of losing her mother as well as regret for her past actions." — Kirkus Reviews "Kela’s primary narration allows for a harmonious blend of contemporary island life and Afro-Caribbean lore, while chapters focusing on Ophidia draw on elements of Andersen’s “The Little Mermaid.” The third-person narration of the interspersed sections echoes a rhythmic traditional call-and-response that links the teller and the listener." — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books "Stringfellow’s middle-grade debut is a wondrous and original story that incorporates Caribbean culture and folklore. Told in alternating points of views between Kela and Ophidia, the novel leads us through a story about family that spans hundreds of years and will captivate readers until the end." — Booklist "A unique blend of Caribbean folklore and realistic grief with a vindictive mermaid twist. Hand to fans of mermaid tales, general fantasy lovers, and readers ­seeking a rare gem in the genre." — School Library Journal "The story is imbued with magic, but Stringfellow’s powerful writing makes the fantastical feel like reality. Through narrative perspectives centering both Kela and Ophidia, the author recalls the call-and-response structure prevalent in Black storytelling traditions. Fans of Baptiste’s The Jumbies and Rhodes’s Bayou Magic will enjoy spending time with Kela as she navigates a journey filled with grief, love, loss, and discovery." — Horn Book Magazine "Stringfellow brings a fantastical approach to one character’s processing of grief as, with the support of secondary characters, Kela begins to truly navigate her pain while unearthing the stories and lore that are her heritage." — Publishers Weekly

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Book SynopsisTrade Review“GET EVEN expertly mixes suspense and snark, proving once again that Gretchen McNeil is a master of the teen thriller.” -- Heather Cocks and Jessica Morgan, founders of Go Fug Yourself“Don’t get mad, get reading this wild ride filled with twists and turns, revenge and romance, suspense and Shakespeare. I can’t wait to see what Gretchen McNeil comes up with next.” -- Elizabeth Eulberg, author of Revenge of the Girl with the Great Personality“A revenge story with murder, mayhem, and Gretchen McNeil’s signature snark? Yes please! Gretchen proves once and for all that revenge is a dish best served deadly. Readers will be immediately sucked into the dangerously intriguing world of DGM and by the end they’ll be dying for the sequel.” -- Jessica Brody, bestselling author of The Unremembered Trilogy and The Karma Club“GET EVEN is an edge-of-your-seat, sink-your-teeth-into-it mystery -- filled with vivid, intriguing characters, set against the ruthless landscape of a modern high school. I’m dying for the next book!” -- Katie Alender, author of the Bad Girls Don't Die series“This suspenseful whodunit…is sure to appeal to a broad audience and engage reluctant readers.” -- Voice of Youth Advocates (VOYA)“A compelling contemporary thriller” -- Kirkus Reviews“If you’re a Pretty Little Liars fan, it’s safe to say you’ll love Get Even” -- Bustle.com“Will engage readers.” -- Romantic Times“Ever-enjoyable…McNeil has a screenwriter’s instincts.” -- Booklist“The suspense that McNeil (Ten) builds should keep readers curious to discover what happens next.” -- Publishers WeeklyPraise for 3:59: “This book is scientifically action-packed, complete with monsters and drama. Teens who are fans of the ever-popular Dr. Who television series will love this book.”—VOYA -- Voice of Youth Advocates (VOYA)Praise for 3:59: “McNeil’s movie-quick setup speed and humorously inventive language...make her a very welcoming author who succeeds at injecting fresh verve into some stalwart sci-fi concepts.” -- BooklistPraise for TEN: “A breathless read.” -- Kirkus ReviewsPraise for TEN: “In the esteemed tradition of teen horror fiction, TEN hits all the high notes: a stormy night, illicit liaisons, cut phone lines, suspicious disappearances, double-crosses, secret histories, and plenty of twists.” -- BooklistPraise for TEN: “Agatha Christie meets Gossip Girl in McNeil’s throwback to old-school thrillers.” -- Publishers WeeklyPraise for TEN: “A quick-paced thriller full of half-facts and red herrings that take readers through the twists and turns of a deadly weekend.” -- School Library JournalPraise for TEN: “Gretchen McNeil’s TEN is my new number one! I jumped at every creaking floorboard in my house and on the page. This is sure to be a teen thriller classic!” -- Nancy Holder, Bram Stoker Award winning author of THE SCREAMING SEASONPraise for TEN: “TEN is a real page turner! Gretchen McNeil knows how to plot a thriller: Her setup is flawless and the suspense kept me on the edge of my seat.” -- Christopher Pike, #1 New York Times bestselling author of the THIRST series and REMEMBER MEPraise for POSSESS: “A fantastic YA debut …. the humor and occasional twists will keep fans of the genre hooked and wanting to finish this book in one sitting.” -- School Library JournalPraise for POSSESS: “McNeil strikes a fine balance between outright scares and sarcastic humor…[a] light, entertaining read.” -- ALA BooklistPraise for POSSESS: “With demons, secrets, and a butt-kicking heroine, POSSESS is a whole lotta dark and twisted fun!” -- Kimberly Derting, author of the Body Finder seriesPraise for POSSESS: “A dark, unique, and intelligent novel with frightening twists around every corner that left me breathless.” -- Courtney Allison Moulton, author of ANGELFIRE

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Book Synopsis

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Book Synopsis?I am obsessed with this story!??Erin Entrada Kelly, author of the Newbery Honor Book We Dream of Space ?Boldly tells readers to take a closer look at the stories they?re told?not to mention at the wolves that might be lurking in the shadows. A clear-eyed, big-hearted fable of compassion, friendship, and love.??Anne Ursu, author of The Real Boy?A lyrical tale of loss and survival, tradition and belief, in which tension and secrets build like a towering wave.??Diane Magras, author of The Mad Wolf?s Daughter?A fable as polished and timeless as a fine wooden toy.??Catherine Gilbert Murdock, author of the Newbery Honor Book The Book of BoyShunned by his fearful village, a twelve-year-old apprentice embarks on a surprising quest to clear his name, with a mythic?and dangerous?wolf following closely at his heels. Jessica Vitalis?s debut is a gorgeous, voice-driven literary fantasy about family, fate, and long-held traditions. The Wolf?s Curse will engross readers of The Girl Who Drank the Moon and A Wish in the Dark. Gauge?s life has been cursed since the day he cried Wolf and was accused of witchcraft. The Great White Wolf brings only death, Gauge?s superstitious village believes. If Gauge can see the Wolf, then he must be in league with it.So instead of playing with friends in the streets or becoming his grandpapa?s partner in the carpentry shop, Gauge must hide and pretend he doesn?t exist. But then the Wolf comes for his grandpapa. And for the first time, Gauge is left all alone, with a bounty on his head and the Wolf at his heels.A young feather collector named Roux offers Gauge assistance, and he is eager for the help. But soon the two?both recently orphaned?are questioning everything they have ever believed about their village, about the Wolf, and about death itself. Narrated by the sly, crafty Wolf, Jessica Vitalis?s debut novel is a vivid and literary tale about family, friendship, belonging, and grief. The Wolf?s Curse will captivate readers of Laurel Snyder?s Orphan Island and Molly Knox Ostertag?s The Witch Boy.

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Book Synopsis

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Book Synopsis

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Book Synopsis

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Book SynopsisAn inventive and fantastical reimagining of Anne of Green Gables with magic and witches! that explores found family, loss, and the power of a girl's imagination, from the acclaimed author of The Language of Ghosts and The School Between Winter and Fairyland. Perfect for readers who loved The Girl Who Drank the Moon and Serafina and the Black Cloak.A magical, witchy, and thoroughly successful homage to a classic. Kirkus Reviews (starred review)Grace has never been good at anything except magic not that anyone believes her.While other children are adopted from the orphanage, nobody wants Grace. So she decides to make a home for herself by running away and offering herself as an apprentice to the witch in the nearby woods. After all, who better to teach Grace to use her magic? Surely the witch can't be that bad.But the witch is that bad she steals souls for spells and gobbles up hearts. So Grace offers a deal: If she can learn all 1001/2 spells in the witch's grimoire, the witch will make Grace her apprentice. But if Grace fails, the witch can take her magic. The witch agrees, and soon an unexpected bond develops between them.But the spells are much harder than Grace expected, and when a monster from the witch's past threatens the home Grace has built, she may have to sacrifice more than her magic to save it.

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