Rank 1We Don’t Lose Our Class GoldfishRyan T. Higgins, illustrated by Ryan T. HigginsPenelope Rex faces her biggest (and fishiest) fear in this companion to the #1 New York Times best-selling We Don't Eat Our Classmates by Ryan T. Higgins.Penelope Rex has one fear: Walter, the class goldfish.Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeWord count 622View book detailsCBC Favorites Awards 2024
Annual favorites chosen by children, teachers, and librarians from books submitted by publishers.
2024 CBC Favorites AwardsSee the original list
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Kids Favorites — K–2nd Grade
60 selections
Rank 1We Don’t Lose Our Class GoldfishRyan T. Higgins, illustrated by Ryan T. HigginsPenelope Rex faces her biggest (and fishiest) fear in this companion to the #1 New York Times best-selling We Don't Eat Our Classmates by Ryan T. Higgins.Penelope Rex has one fear: Walter, the class goldfish.Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeWord count 622View book details
Rank 2Back to School BackpackSimon Rich, illustrated by Tom ToroA backpack faces first-day-of-school jitters and existential angst in crowded hallways.Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
Rank 3Loud LibrarianJenna Beatrice, illustrated by Erika Lynne JonesA little librarian with a larger-than-life voice finds her place in this sweet and uproarious picture book about being true to yourself—no shushing required!Penelope is perfect for the job of student-librarian.Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
Rank 4The SkullJon KlassenIn a big abandoned house, on a barren hill, lives a skull. A brave girl named Otilla has escaped from terrible danger and run away, and when she finds herself lost in the dark forest, the lonely house beckons.Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
Rank 5Scaredy CatsJeff MackWhen an adorable kitten receives a mysterious beribboned package, he’s pretty sure it’s a cake. But his two nervous friends have other ideas in this hilarious guessing game.“Hey, bud.Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
Rank 6All We Need Is Love and a Really Soft Pillow!Peter H. Reynolds, illustrated by Henry Rocket ReynoldsA storm tests their resolve, but love is all they need.Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeLexile AD470LATOS 3.2View book details
Rank 7Frank and BertChris Naylor-Ballesteros, illustrated by Chris Naylor-BallesterosFrank and Bert want to go on a BIG bike ride.But there's one little problem.Bert is very slow and always wobbles.Uh-oh.But what if being fast isn't everything?Maybe - just maybe - Frank will find that by being a kind and thoughtful friend he can give Bert all the confidence he needs .…Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
Rank 8Mine!Candace FlemingAlong skirts Mouse. “An apple!” she squeaks, "How divine! When it tumbles to the ground, it’ll all be mine!” And so it goes, for Hare, Fox, Deer, and Bear, who each can't wait to get their hands on the apple.Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
Rank 9Holey MoleyBethan ClarkeGus the Goat and Mavis Mole will have you laughing out loud in this super-silly, quirky, and totally HOLE-ARIOUS guessing game of a story!Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
Rank 10Croc-a-doodle-doo!Huw Lewis Jones, illustrated by Sébastien BraunLook out, here comes trouble!Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
10 DogsEmily GravettTen dogs chase sausages, but can they learn to share?Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeLexile NP0LATOS 0.1View book details
100 Mighty Dragons All Named BroccoliDavid LaRochelle, illustrated by Lian Cho"A nonstop dragon party . . . High on a mountain live 100 mighty dragons all named Broccoli. When a tremendous wind blows half the dragons away, ten others sail off to become professional surfers in Hawaii.Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
All In a DayChihiro Takeuchi, illustrated by Chihiro TakeuchiNewbery Medal winner Cynthia Rylant's poetic text, alongside Nikki McClure's stunning, meticulously crafted cut-paper art, makes this picture book not only timeless but appealing to all ages, from one to one hundred.Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
Arletis, Abuelo, and the Message in a BottleLea Aschkenas, illustrated by Cornelius Van Wright, Ying-Hwa HuWhen a little girl who loves maps and an old man who dreams of sailing the world connect through a message in a bottle, their communication inspires a visit that forges a lasting friendship, which expands both their worlds.Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
Benita and the Night CreaturesMariana Llanos, illustrated by CocorettoThe National Education Association's Read Across America October 2024 Elementary Pick!"Booo!" screamed Cuco, and the tree outside the window shivered. "You too!" Benita replied, and she flipped a page.Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
The Big CheeseJory John, illustrated by Pete OswaldA charismatic cheese learns to cope with losing and finds new meaning in life.Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeLexile AD420LATOS 2.9View book details
Can You Dance like a Peacock?Rekha Rajan, illustrated by Hannah AbboLearn about animals and get grooving with this fun and lively picture book from a renowned STEAM expert and arts educator!Can YOU dance like a peacock?Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
The Cottonwood SingsAlfreda Beartrack-Algeo, illustrated by Alfreda Beartrack-AlgeoThe Cottonwood Sings is the delightful story of the lovely Hunku (First Woman), who was immortal and never aged. The animals and plants loved her, but Hunku was lonely.Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
Danbi’s Favorite DayAnna KimA girl's grand celebration plans falter, sparking a creative rescue mission.Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeLexile AD550LATOS 3.6View book details
A Delicious StoryBarney Saltzberg"You ate the story?" says one mouse to the other in this funny, heartfelt read-aloud with pitch-perfect repartee and Barney Saltzberg's signature take on the joys of creativity.Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeLexile AD450LATOS 3.1View book details
Dillan McMillan Please Eat Your PeasDavid Schneider, illustrated by Jeff ShellyThey were tiny, roly-poly, soft, green, warm, steamy, bumpy, buttery . . . and sitting on Dillan McMillan's plate. So begins this hilarious story of a finicky little boy who absolutely refuses to eat his peas, despite all the pleading, poking, and prodding from his family and friends.Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
Don’t Touch That Flower!Alice Hemming, illustrated by Nicola SlaterA fantastically fun springtime picture book from the creators of The Leaf Thief . Nice to see you back. It's spring and the most perfect flower has started to blossom—and Squirrel has decided the flower is HIS.Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
EvergreenMatthew CordellA timid squirrel braves a perilous forest to deliver soup to her sick grandmother.Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeLexile AD580LATOS 3.8View book details
Farm BootsLisl H. Detlefsen, illustrated by Renée KurillaExplore farm life through the seasons with boots for every adventure.Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
The Girl Who Heard the MusicMarni Fogelson, with Mahani TeaveThat's where a girl named Mahani lived—on Rapa Nui, also known as Easter Island. Mahani grew up taking music lessons on the island's only piano.Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
Gustav Is Missing!Andrea ZuillFrom the author of Sweety comes a heartwarming story of friendship and bravery, featuring a little mushroom who sets off into the scary world to find his missing pet slug.Oh, no!Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeLexile AD430LATOS 2.9View book details
Henry the SnailKatarina Macurova, illustrated by Katarina MacurovaBeing different can be the very thing that helps you shine. Henry the Snail is a tender picture book for young children about resilience, creativity, and self-acceptance.Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
Hooked on BooksMargaret Chiu Greanias, illustrated by Kristyna LittenA fish seeks solitude to read, but distractions abound.Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
I Am a Dragon!Sabina Hahn, illustrated by Sabina HahnA dragon mistaken for a frog faces a hilarious identity crisis.Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
I Want 100 DogsStacy McAnulty, illustrated by Claire KeaneIn this funny, feel-good first-pet book, one aspiring dog owner and her parents ponder—in wildly imaginative and hilarious detail—all the best and worst outcomes of bringing home more dogs than you can (literally) shake a stick at.Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeWord count 220View book details
I Want to Be Spaghetti!Kiera Wright-Ruiz, illustrated by Claudia LamA funny debut picture book about how one little ramen packet finds self-love and belonging in a spaghetti-obsessed world.Even from Ramen's small shelf in the supermarket, they see spaghetti propaganda everywhere.Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
If I Was a HorseSophie BlackallImagine life as a horse. Can you fit in your clothes or give your sister a ride?Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeWord count 109View book details
If You Wake a SkunkCarol Doeringer, illustrated by Florence WeiserWhat's a pair of campers to do? This laugh-out-loud cautionary tale will have readers cringing as each page is turned. Tension builds as the campers creep closer and tempt fate, dismissing the skunk's warnings.Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
Jeffrey Loves BlueLoretta Garbutt, illustrated by Lily Snowden-FineIn art class, a boy finds the courage to leave his comfort zone, try something new, and do something nice for a friend Sometimes, Jeffrey fixates on certain likes and dislikes.Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
Jungle CatAndrew Larsen, illustrated by Udayana LugoAn indoor cat's wild adventure unites a community.Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeLexile AD440LATOS 3View book details
Just One FlakeTravis JonkerA boy's quest to catch a snowflake leads to an unexpected discovery.Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
Kitty and Cat: Opposites AttractMirka Hokkanen, illustrated by Mirka HokkanenCat just wants to nap. Bold, whimsical artwork and plenty of humor engage little ones in a sly and stylish introduction to opposites.Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
The Legend of Soggy HollowRyan T. Higgins, illustrated by Ryan T. HigginsCelebrate all things scary with #1 New York Times best-selling author Ryan T. Higgins's beloved Mother Bruce.Bruce is a bear who does not like holidays, and he really doesn’t like Halloween.Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
Let’s Build a Dam!Daniel Fehr, illustrated by Mariachiara Di GiorgioForeword INDIES silver medal winner! Hilarity ensues when siblings set out to build a simple dam in this charming picture book for young children.Siblings May, Lily, and Noah build a dam.Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
Library Fish Learns to ReadAlyssa Satin Capucilli, illustrated by Gladys JoseLibrary Fish returns in this charming picture book about the unusually literary fish learning to do what everyone around her loves—read!Library Fish is very happy in her bowl on Mr.Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
Long Goes to Dragon SchoolHelen H. Wu, illustrated by Mae BesomA dragon struggles to fit in at school where fire-breathing is key.Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeLexile AD550LATOS 3.6View book details
Make Way for Butterfly (A Very Impatient Caterpillar Book)Ross Burach, illustrated by Ross BurachMake way for another riotous adventure in the Very Impatient Caterpillar series that slyly combines science and social-emotional learning with laugh-out-loud humor!Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
The Moon Is a Ball: Stories of Panda & SquirrelEd FranckJoin Panda and Squirrel in nine funny, wise and thoughtful stories about the meaning of friendship by two world greats of children’s literature.Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
The Mouse Who Ate BooksJosé Carlos Andrés, illustrated by Katharina SiegA story of friendship between a bookseller and a mouse hungry for stories! Klaus the mouse is always hungry but nothing he eats seems to satisfy him.Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
My House, My FamilyC. Hope Flinchbaugh, illustrated by Laurel AylesworthSometimes I live with Mommy; Sometimes I stay with Dad. But we are all a family Whatever house I’m at. No two families look exactly alike, but every family is tied together by love.Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
NO Is All I Know!Chris Grabenstein, illustrated by Leo EspinosaA boy's endless 'no' meets a cousin's joyful 'yes,' transforming his world.Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeLexile AD450LATOS 3.1View book details
Oh, Olive!Lian Cho, illustrated by Lian ChoThe most magnificent and brilliant artist in the whole wide world! Her parents are also artists—serious artists—who paint prim, proper, perfect shapes.Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
Party Hearty Kitty-CornShannon Hale, illustrated by LeUyen PhamA party plan goes awry when jealousy threatens a magical friendship.Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeWord count 527View book details
The Princess and the (Greedy) PeaLeigh Hodgkinson, illustrated by Leigh HodgkinsonA ravenous pea devours everything in sight, but whose dinner did it steal, and where will it rest now?Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
RainCynthia Rylant, illustrated by Lisa CongdonFrom Newbery Medalist Cynthia Rylant comes a vibrantly illustrated, poetic picture book tribute to the beauty and magic of a rainy day.Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
Ramen for EveryonePatricia Tanumihardja, illustrated by Shiho PateA boy's quest to perfect ramen leads to unexpected culinary challenges.Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeLexile 530LATOS 3.5View book details
Saint Patrick the Forgiver: The History and Legends of Ireland’s BishopNed Bustard, illustrated by Ned BustardHello, my name is Patrick. You may have heard my story. I walked the span of Ireland to tell of God’s great glory.Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
Seals Are Jerks!Jared Chapman, illustrated by Jared ChapmanIn a hilarious story for fans of We Don't Eat Our Classmates, a young girl is determined to find out the truth about her favorite animals -- and find out once and for all, are seals really jerks and do they really eat penguins?!Seals are Lorelei’s favorite animal: they're so cute and…Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeLexile 401LATOS 2.8View book details
Snake’s Big MistakeSarah Kurpiel, illustrated by Sarah KurpielSnake loves art class—until his project is a disaster, and he makes a terrible mistake that hurts a friend. How will Snake fix his mistake?Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
This Book Is My Best FriendRobin RobinsonWhen two young readers reach for the same book at the library, they set off on a charming romp through the stacks in this rambunctious and endearing picture book.Sunny and Aarush both love to read.Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeLexile AD500LATOS 3.3View book details
Tiny T. Rex and the Grand Ta-Da!Jonathan Stutzman, illustrated by Jay FleckIn the newest picture book in the bestselling Tiny T. Rex series, lovable friends Tiny and Pointy challenge themselves when they enter the school talent show.Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeLexile AD540LATOS 3.6View book details
A Unicorn, a Dinosaur, and a Shark Walk into a BookJonathan FenskeA unicorn, dinosaur, and shark defy their narrator in a chaotic book adventure.Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeLexile AD460LATOS 3.1View book details
Watch Out for the Lion!Brooke Hartman, illustrated by Anna SüßbauerA lurking lion awaits, but is it real or imagined?Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
Wolfboy is ScaredAndy HarknessBut . . . the rabbits should walk ahead. Wolfboy needs to watch their backs after all!Wait, are those monster claws? Maybe Wolfboy IS scared!With bold art and a high energy text perfect for reading aloud, Wolfboy Is Scared shows how being afraid is totally normal.Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
Yoga at the AquariumTeresa Anne Power, illustrated by Emma AllenOpus the orange tabby cat. Together, they meet and learn about all kinds of animals, such as octopi, dolphins, crabs, turtles, and even sharks!Kids Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book detailsKids Favorites — 3rd–5th Grade
40 selections
Rank 1The Great Banned-Books Bake SaleAya Khalil, illustrated by Anait SemirdzhyanKanzi, the immigrant girl of Aya Khalil and Anait Semirdzhyan’s bestselling picture book The Arabic Quilt, has come to feel welcome in her American school―that is, until an entire shelf of books about immigrant kids and kids of color suddenly disappears from the school library.Kids Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
Rank 2Angel and the Paper TrailMakenzie Hice, illustrated by Natasja HorneHe finds a mysterious note inside a book at the library and sets off to find out who wrote it. Pretty soon, he finds himself surrounded by new friends who are all keen on deciphering the mystery as well!Kids Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
Rank 3Once Upon a BookGrace Lin, Kate MessnerA book invites a girl into a world of adventure, but where does her heart truly belong?Kids Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeLexile 440LATOS 3View book details
Rank 4Two-Headed Chicken: Beak to the FutureTom Angleberger, illustrated by Tom Angleberger“Among the infinite universes of the multiverse, anything is possible . . . even time travel. . . . Having lost the Astrocap™ somewhere in the multiverse, our intrepid hero dons the Timecap™ to scour the timestream, which looks a lot like broccoli, in search of it.Kids Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
Rank 5Tacos TodayRaúl the Third, illustrated by Raúl the ThirdYoung luchadores must creatively earn money for their favorite tacos.Kids Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
Rank 6A Day in the Life of an Astronaut, Mars, and the Distant StarsMike Barfield, illustrated by Jess BradleyTake a colourful and comical tour through our galaxy and beyond with this fun new comic collection from Mike Barfield and Jess Bradley.Kids Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeLexile GN840LATOS 5.4View book details
Rank 7Luna RancheraRodrigo MorlesinWelcome to the show! ¡Bienvenidos!Kids Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
Rank 8The Sky Is Not the LimitJérémie DecalfSoon, along with its twin, Voyager 2 slipped through the clouds and left Earth behind. The spacecraft traveled for years through the deep, infinite night.Kids Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
Rank 9Search for a Giant Squid: Pick Your PathAmy Seto ForresterA new and exciting pick-your-path STEM adventure for emerging readers!This series starter takes emerging readers on an expedition to the ocean’s twilight zone in search of a giant squid.Kids Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
Rank 10Felice and the Wailing WomanDiana LópezA girl must break curses to free her haunted mother.Kids Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeLexile 720LATOS 4.6View book details
Alithia Ramirez Was an ArtistViolet Lemay, illustrated by Alithia Ramirez2024 Reading the West Book Awards Winner, Picture BooksA 2024 CBC Children’s Favorites WinnerA 2024 CBC Librarian Favorites WinnerA 2024 CBC Teacher Favorites WinnerEric Hoffer Book Awards, 2024 Grand Prize WinnerNautilus Book Awards, 2024 Gold WinnerThe Book Fest, 2024 Gold Winner for Children’s HistoricalThe Book Fest, 2024 Silver Winner for Best Picture…Kids Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
An American StoryKwame AlexanderThis lyrically written book tells the story of slavery through the perspective of a teacher and their students. The text is complemented by powerful mixed-media art.Kids Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
Bean the Stretchy DragonAri StocrateMeet Bean—a stretchy, cheerful dragon who lives with a grumpy witch named Sally.Kids Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
Body Music: Poems About the Noises Your Body MakesJane Yolen, Ryan G. Van Cleave, illustrated by Luis San VicenteBodies make MUSIC! “Yolen and Van Cleave give voice to bodily noises―from butts that “BOOM” to giggles and gasps―in a riotously silly poetry collection perfectly tuned to a toilet humor–loving audience.”― Publishers Weekly “Funny, fact-filled, and succinct, this title will have broad appeal beyond the elementary aged audience it is intended for.Kids Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
Border CrossingsSneed B. Collard III, illustrated by Howard GraySet in the north of England, Pat Barker's Border Crossing, the basis for the major motion picture The Drowning, portrays a child psychiatrist who rescues a man from drowning one day while walking on a beach in Northumberland.Kids Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
Building a Dream: How the Boys of Koh Panyee Became ChampionsDarshana Khiani, illustrated by Dow PhumirukA tale of persistence and problem-solving, based on the true story of a Thai soccer team who made their own place to play.Kids Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
Daytime and NighttimeMichael Bright, illustrated by Nic JonesCharmingly written and beautifully illustrated, Animal Opposites are the ideal books to introduce youngsters to the delightful world of animals. The basic features and habits of a wide variety of animals are brought to life using the simple concept of opposites, coupled with illustrations that are full of character and color.Kids Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
Ellen Takes Flight: The Life of Astronaut Ellen OchoaDoreen RappaportA Junior Library Guild Selection, Bank Street College Best Children's Book of the Year, and National Science Teaching Association Best STEM Book ● Celebrate the groundbreaking life of astronaut and Johnson Space Center director Ellen Ochoa, the first Latina in space, in this "picture-book biography for tomorrow’s astronauts" (Booklist).Kids Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
The Emperor’s Last StandDavid LubarThe Emperor's Last Stand is the third and final hilarious intergalactic Emperor of the Universe adventure by David Lubar.“What do you get when you combine a 7th grader, a gerbil, a package of ground beef, and an alien space ship on a chase across the universe?Kids Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
Everywhere, Still: A Book about Loss, Grief, and the Way Love ContinuesM.H. Clark, illustrated by Claire Sahara LempGentle and compassionate, this poetic picture book helps children navigate grief and loss, offering reassurance that love and connection remain-even when someone special is no longer physically present."I miss you and I love you.Kids Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
GlobalEoin Colfer, Andrew DonkinTwo children battle climate change's impact on their homes and wildlife.Kids Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeLexile HL330LATOS 2.8View book details
How Do You Spell Unfair?: MacNolia Cox and the National Spelling BeeCarole Boston WeatherfordIn 1936, eighth grader MacNolia Cox became the first African American to win the Akron, Ohio, spelling bee.Kids Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
How Does Our Food Grow?Brooke Jorden, Kitchen Connection. Kay WiddowsonFruits and vegetables all taste great, but how did they end up on your plate? The fresh and colorful foods you know came from farms—that’s where they grow!Kids Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
How to Eat in SpaceHelen Taylor, illustrated by Stevie LewisEating in space is tricky—no gravity, no crumbs, no mess!Kids Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeLexile AD580LATOS 3.3View book details
The Kid with Big, Big IdeasBritney Winn Lee, illustrated by Jacob Souva"There once was a kid with glittery nails who always wore colorful socks, and all around town, this child was known for thinking outside of the box." Following the bestselling The Boy with Big, Big Feelings and The Girl with Big, Big Questions comes a new story about a kid with ideas…Kids Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
A Miscellany of Mischief and MagicTom Adams, illustrated by Jasmine FloydWelcome all rascals and tricksters to this marvellous miscellany of mischief and magic!*2024 CBC Children's FAVORITES*This playful book explores the world of deception and trickery – both the good and the bad.Kids Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
Monster Support Group: The Mummy’s CurseLaura Suárez, illustrated by Laura SuárezA cursed pharaoh must learn humility to escape her ancient tomb.Kids Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
Obscura the Cat Sees BeyondBen Franchi, illustrated by Cheyenne BighamIf fairy tales feel like they've lost their edge, and princesses just make you yawn- Read on for a chill! You're in for a thrill as Obscura the Cat Sees Beyond!Kids Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
Peaches: English-Spanish Bilingual EditionsIdries Shah, illustrated by Prashant MirandaFamilies compete so intently for the best way to prepare peaches that they fail to benefit from the actual fruit. Even young children will see the foolishness of overcomplication and competition illustrated in this delightful tale.Kids Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
The Queen of Chess: How Judit Polgár Changed the GameLaurie Wallmark, illustrated by Stevie LewisThis is the true story of how Judit Polgár captivated the world as she battled to become the youngest chess grandmaster in history! "I was at both events where Judit got her first IM norm (I drew her in the last round) and her last GM norm, and I was fortunate enough…Kids Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
Reggie: Kid PenguinJen de Olivera, illustrated by Jen de OliveraFans of Babymouse and Owly will love this early graphic novel series about the everyday adventures and high jinks of Reginald "Reggie" Guinn, a little kid penguin with a big personality!Kids Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
ScurryMac Smith, illustrated by Mac SmithThe humans are gone, the sun is rarely seen, and a cold, dark rain befouls everything it touches. As a group of house mice struggle to survive a long and strange winter, they stubbornly cling to their old ways, looting the abandoned homes nearby for any scraps they can find.Kids Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
A Sky of Paper StarsSusie YiA wish gone wrong turns Yuna's world upside down. Can she reverse it before it's too late?Kids Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeLexile GN510LATOS 3.4View book details
Stand as Tall as the TreesPatricia Gualinga, Laura Resau, illustrated by Vanessa JaramilloAn inspiring true story about how an activist in the Amazon worked with other Indigenous communities to protect and preserve their sacred lands and forests.Patricia (Paty) Gualinga grew up in her Kichwa village in the Amazon of Ecuador where mystical beings called Amazanga help protect the forest.Kids Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
Super Space Weekend: Adventures in AstronomyGaëlle Alméras, David WarrinerThis non-fiction graphic novel for kids 7+ takes readers on a thrilling voyage through our universe. Get ready for the ultimate astronomy adventure!Kids Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
Ten-Word Tiny Tales: To Inspire and UnsettleJoseph Coelho, illustrated by VariousUK Children’s Laureate Joseph Coelho presents twenty tiny tales—each one illustrated by a different artist, and each just ten words long—in a book that’s as much a work of art as an invitation to budding writers. “Invite me in,” she says, outside my tenth-story window.Kids Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
This Is Not My HomeVivienne Chang, Eugenia Yoh, illustrated by Vivienne Chang, Eugenia YohA humorous and heartfelt reverse immigration story that will resonate across cultures and show us how a place can become home.This is not my backyard barbecue.This is not our car, these are not my fireflies.This is not my farmer’s market and...This is not my home.Kids Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeLexile 92LATOS 1.2View book details
Tiger Trouble (Tig and Lily Book 1)Dan ThompsonLions, Tigers, and . . . a house cat?! Life at the zoo just got complicated. An all-new purr-fect graphic chapter book series!What makes a tiger, a tiger?Kids Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
Welcome to the Wonder HouseRebecca Kai Dotlich, Georgia HeardThis collection of poems, creatively presented in the format of an allegorical house, will engage anyone who has ever wondered “why?” as it shows young readers that wonder is everywhere—in yourself and in the world around you.Welcome to the Wonder House, a place to explore the cornerstone of every great thinker—a sense…Kids Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
The Wild Life of AnimalsMike Barfield, illustrated by Paula BossioFeaturing key habitats, including seas, forests, deserts and grasslands, this book uncovers the little-known but amazing adaptations, bonkers behaviour and cunning natural skills of the world’s most interesting animals.Kids Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book detailsKids Favorites — 6th–8th Grade
40 selections
Rank 1School TripJerry Craft, illustrated by Jerry CraftA school trip to Paris turns chaotic when guides change unexpectedly. Can they navigate new challenges abroad?Kids Favorites — 6th–8th GradeWord count 17119View book details
Rank 2The Spirit GlassRoshani ChokshiA stolen key threatens the balance between worlds. Can Corazon restore it before all hope is lost?Kids Favorites — 6th–8th GradeLexile 710LATOS 4.5View book details
Rank 3It Found UsLindsay CurrieA girl detective races against time to solve eerie clues and find a missing boy linked to a haunted cemetery.Kids Favorites — 6th–8th GradeLexile 540LATOS 4.1View book details
Rank 4Parachute Kids: A Graphic NovelBetty C. TangA young Taiwanese girl navigates her new life in America, dealing with challenges in school, cultural differences, and her complicated relationship with her familyKids Favorites — 6th–8th GradeLexile HL250LATOS 2.5View book details
Rank 5HandsTorrey MaldonadoA boy must choose between fighting or creating to protect his family.Kids Favorites — 6th–8th GradeLexile HL430LATOS 3.1View book details
Rank 6Dear RosieMeghan Boehman, Rachael BrinerA heartwarming graphic novel about middle grade friendship, loss, and moving on in the spirit of Stargazing and Real Friends. Seventh-grader Millie has the best friends in the whole world: Florence, Claire, Gabby, and Rosie, but when Rosie dies in a car accident everything changes.Kids Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book details
Rank 7The Dog KnightJeremy Whitley, illustrated by Bre Indigo with colors by Melissa CapriglioneA middle schooler must prove their worth to become the Dog Knight and protect a magical pact.Kids Favorites — 6th–8th GradeLexile HL400LATOS 2.8View book details
Rank 8The Demon Sword AsperidesSarah Jean HorwitzA demon sword and a wannabe knight embark on a world-saving quest.Kids Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book details
Rank 9The Mark of Athena: The Graphic NovelRick Riordan, illustrated by Orpheus CollarThe third exciting entry in Rick Riordan's best-selling Heroes of Olympus series is now a graphic novel! In The Son of Neptune , Percy, Hazel, and Frank met in Camp Jupiter, the Roman equivalent of Camp Half-Blood, and traveled to the land beyond the gods to complete a dangerous quest.Kids Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book details
Rank 10Curlfriends: New In TownSharee MillerTwelve-year-old military kid Charlie Harper is no stranger to being the new kid. Middle school means a fresh start, and she is convinced this is her chance to be cool.Kids Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book details
Abeni’s SongP. Djèlí ClarkIN DARKNESS, A SONG CAN LEAD THE WAY. BEWARE WHICH ONE YOU LISTEN TO. It’s too late to run. They are coming.Warriors with burning blades storm the village.Kids Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book details
The Adventures of the Flash Gang, Episode One: The Exploding ExperimentS. J. Waugh, M. M. DowningThe blue smudge and lingering stink? The Flash Gang has struck again! They are the most notorious thieves in Pittsburgh, food-stealing crooks the police and newspapers say are highly trained and very dangerous.Kids Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book details
Akim Aliu: Dreamer (Original Graphic Memoir)Akim Aliu, Greg Anderson Elysée, illustrated by Karen de la VegaThis honest, engrossing graphic memoir tells the story of professional athlete and activist Akim Aliu's incredible life as a hockey prodigy in Canada.Kids Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book details
Black Sand Beach 4: Where Do Monsters Come From?Richard FairgrayAs the kids struggle to rescue Andy from the Darkness, more secrets from Black Sand Beach past—and present—are revealed in the fourth installment of the dark and creepy Black Sand Beach graphic novel series.Kids Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book details
Colin Kaepernick: Change the Game (Graphic Novel Memoir)Colin Kaepernick, Eve L. Ewing, illustrated by Orlando CaicedoColin Change the Game is an inspiring high school graphic novel memoir for readers 12 and up from celebrated athlete and activist Colin Kaepernick.Kids Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book details
Danny Phantom: A Glitch in TimeGabriela Epstein, illustrated by ViacomCBS / NickelodeonWhen the gang starts experiencing time travel glitches, Danny’s archnemesis Vlad Masters arrives on his doorstep with terrifying news: Dark Danny has escaped his prison!Kids Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book details
The Death & Life of Benny BrooksEthan LongBenny Brooks has a lot on his mind: his older brother won’t stop picking on him, his crush has no idea he exists, and he’s struggling in every class except art.Kids Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book details
Doña Quixote: Rise of the KnightRey Terciero, illustrated by Monica M. MagañaBut to the people in their Texas town, he was just a strange old man who dressed up as a knight and claimed to save the world from monsters only he could see.Kids Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book details
Garvey’s Choice: The Graphic NovelNikki Grimes, illustrated by Theodore Taylor IIIGarvey’s father has always wanted Garvey to be athletic, but Garvey is interested in astronomy, science fiction, reading—anything but sports. Feeling like a failure, he comforts himself with food.Kids Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book detailsGrave Mistakes (Dade Family #1)Kitty CurranMiddle school is hard-add a deadly embarrassing family and a huge secret, and it's nearly impossible. An Addams-esque family faces a perilous plot in this energetic, ghostly middle grade mystery.Kids Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book detailsHour of Need: The Daring Escape of the Danish Jews during World War IIRalph Shayne, illustrated by Tatiana GoldbergHour of Need is a graphic novel telling the true story of the resistance to Nazi rule in Denmark during World War II and the heroes that saved the Danish Jews by helping them evacuate to Sweden.In the Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale, legend had it that should danger ever come to…Kids Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book details
How to Handle STRESS for Middle School SuccessSilvi Guerra, illustrated by DeAndra Hodge“Smart and essential!”—Jeff Kinney, Diary of a Wimpy KidMiddle school can be stressful. On the outside, you can look like everything is going great.Kids Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book details
LightsBrenna Thummler, illustrated by Brenna ThummlerA 2024 CBC Children's Favorites WinnerA 2024 Eisner Award NomineeA 2024 Ringo Award NomineeFollowing Brenna Thummler's bestselling and critically acclaimed graphic novels Sheets and Delicates, Marjorie, Eliza, and Wendell the ghost are back to uncover the secrets of Wendell's human life in the third and final heartwarming installment of the Sheets trilogy.Kids Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book details
Lo and BeholdWendy Mass, illustrated by Gabi MendezBut ever since Addie’s family got turned upside down, those things have been harder for her to see.The last thing Addie wants to do is make a new friend, but when her dad’s summer job takes them across the country, she meets Mateo and finds herself caught up in an exciting project.Kids Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book details
Loki: A Bad God’s Guide to Taking the BlameLouie Stowell, illustrated by Louie StowellLoki must find Thor's stolen hammer to clear his name and prove his innocence.Kids Favorites — 6th–8th GradeLexile 640LATOS 4.1View book details
Mapmakers and the Enchanted MountainCameron Chittock, Amanda CastilloA Mapmaker must restore magic and face hidden dangers as time runs out.Kids Favorites — 6th–8th GradeLexile GN270LATOS 2.1View book details
MascotCharles Waters, Traci SorellA school mascot sparks a heated debate, challenging students to confront identity and tradition.Kids Favorites — 6th–8th GradeLexile 710LATOS 4.9View book details
MexikidPedro MartínMexikid: A Graphic Memoir is a 2023 children's graphic novel written and illustrated by Mexican American author and graphic artist Pedro Martín.Kids Favorites — 6th–8th GradeLexile HL530LATOS 3.5View book details
The Moth KeeperK. O'NeillA Moth Keeper's choice threatens her village's survival. Can she protect what matters most?Kids Favorites — 6th–8th GradeLexile GN710LATOS 4.5View book details
The Night RavenJohan RundbergA Kirkus Best Book of the Year Shortlisted for the Global Literature in Libraries YA Translated Book Prize A USBBY Outstanding International Book Mika is not your average twelve-year-old—and she’s about to prove it.It’s 1880, and in the frigid city of Stockholm, death lurks around every corner.Kids Favorites — 6th–8th GradeLexile 680LATOS 4.8View book details
The Probability of EverythingSarah EverettAn asteroid threatens Earth, forcing Kemi to confront loss and the fragility of life.Kids Favorites — 6th–8th GradeWord count 52720View book details
Punch Up!Zachary Sterling, illustrated by Zachary SterlingA 2023 ALA Best Graphic Novel for Children A 2024 CBC Children’s Favorites Winner From New York Times best-selling cartoonist Zachary Sterling (Adventure Time, Mabuhay) comes an all-ages, shonen manga-style adventure for fans of Naruto and Dragon Ball Z!Kids Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book details
Remember UsJacqueline WoodsonTwelve-year-old Sage experiences a summer of self-discovery as she spends her days playing basketball and watching fires overtake the beloved Bushwick neighborhood where she lives in this novel set in the 1970s.Kids Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book details
Serafina and the Black Cloak: The Graphic NovelRobert Beatty, illustrated by Braeden SherrellRobert Beatty's best-selling gothic fantasy about an unforgettable heroine is now a mesmerizing graphic novel with rich, atmospheric illustrations. "The story drips with suspense, wrapping readers into the narrative just as easily as the man in the black cloak binds his young victims." — School Library Journal “Never go into the deep…Kids Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book details
SilverwingKenneth Oppel, illustrated by Christopher SteiningerShade is a young bat, the runt of the Silverwing colony. When he gets lost during a perilous migration he must prove his strength to find his flock again.Kids Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book details
Skip!Sarah BurgessA quiet teen finds their voice through poetry and double Dutch while navigating friendship, identity, and belonging.Kids Favorites — 6th–8th GradeLexile HL220LATOS 1.9View book details
Spider-Man’s Bad ConnectionPreeti ChhibberSpider-Man’s Bad Connection is the second novel, after the acclaimed Spider-Man’s Social Dilemma, in a new series chronicling teenager Peter Parker's first adventures as Spider-Man.Peter Parker is still learning the ropes—er, webs?—as Spider-Man, and he has a new partner in crime-fighting in his new girlfriend MJ.Kids Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book details
A Spoonful of TimeFlora AhnA bite of food sends Maya and her grandmother back in time, revealing family secrets.Kids Favorites — 6th–8th GradeLexile 750LATOS 4.8View book details
Tagging FreedomRhonda RoumaniKareem Haddad of Damascus, Syria, never dreamed of becoming a graffiti artist. But when a group of boys from another town tag subversive slogans outside their school, and another boy is killed while in custody, Kareem and his friends are inspired to start secretly tagmessages of freedom around their city.Kids Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book details
WildfireBreena Bard, illustrated by Breena Bard"The latest in the TikTok sensation and deliciously “swoonworthy” (Elena Armas, New York Times bestselling author) Maple Hills series follows two summKids Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book detailsKids Favorites — 9th–12th Grade
40 selections
Rank 1Hungry GhostVictoria YingA secret struggle with eating disorders forces a life-changing decision.Kids Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
Rank 2FronteraJulio Anta, illustrated by Jacoby SalcedoRooted in Gloria Anzaldúa's experience as a Chicana, a lesbian, an activist, and a writer, the essays and poems in this volume profoundly challenged, and continue to challenge, how we think about identity.Kids Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
Rank 3We Don’t Swim HereVincent TiradoAnd she will make them pay. A chilling new novel for fans of Tiffany D. Jackson, Lamar Giles, and Ryan Douglass.Bronwyn is only supposed to be in rural Hillwoods for a year.Kids Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
Rank 4Yaqui Delgado Wants to Kick Your Ass: The Graphic NovelMeg Medina, illustrated by Mel Valentine VargasNewbery Medalist Meg Medina returns to her powerful YA novel about school bullying with a dynamic graphic-novel edition adapted and illustrated by Mel Valentine Vargas.Kids Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
Rank 5Invisible SonKim JohnsonAfter spending two months in a juvenile detention center for a crime he did not commit, seventeen-year-old Andre Jackson returns home and tries to adapt to a Covid-19 world and find his missing best friend.Kids Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
Rank 6House of MarionneJ. ElleNow in Paperback!"Dazzling and deceptive. She and her mother have fled from city to city, in order to hide the deadly magic that flows through Quell’s veins.Kids Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
Rank 7UnfamiliarHaley NewsomeThis is a pre-1923 historical reproduction that was curated for quality. Quality assurance was conducted on each of these books in an attempt to remove books with imperfections introduced by the digitization process.Kids Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
Rank 8You’re Not Supposed To Die TonightKalynn BayronGuests pay to be scared in this full-contact terror game, as Charity and her summer crew recreate scenes from a classic slasher film, The Curse of Camp Mirror Lake.Kids Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
Rank 9The Library of Broken WorldsAlaya Dawn JohnsonA girl matches wits with a war god in this kaleidoscopic, epic tale of oppression and the cost of peace, where stories hide within other stories, and narrative has the power to heal… or to burn everything in its path.Kids Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
Rank 10Slaughterhouse-Five OGN SCKurt Vonnegut, Ryan North, illustrated by Albert MonteysCentering on the infamous firebombing of Dresden, Billy Pilgrim’s odyssey through time reflects the mythic journey of our own fractured lives as we search for meaning in what we fear most.Kids Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
All the Dead Lie DownKyrie McCauleyWhen crime reporter Molly Cates’s father died more than twenty-five years ago, the case was ruled a suicide, and Molly’s efforts to prove otherwise led to nothing but anguish and the breakup of her family.Kids Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book detailsAva’s Demon: Book One: RebornMichelle Fus, illustrated by Michelle FusA PACT IS MADE… When a young, shy girl named Ava discovers that the demon who haunts her is actually the spirit of an ancient alien queen named Wrathia, the two form a powerful pact—in exchange for a better life, Ava must help Wrathia seek revenge against TITAN, the god-like being who…Kids Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
Aya: An Anthology of Racial Justice, Healing and the Black ExperienceVeronica Chapman, Kevin Reese, illustrated by Erianna JilesAya is an anthology produced by Black Minnesota voices. Youth and community activists shared their reflections on justice and healing. This 2022 publication is its inaugural edition.Kids Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
Be That WayHope LarsonSeventeen-year-old Christine keeps a journal of an eventful year in her life in mid-90s, while juggling troubled friendships and looking for love.It’s January 1, 1996, and high school junior Christine wants more than anything to be that cool girl everyone notices, like her gorgeous best friend, Landry.Kids Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
BlackwardLawrence Lindell, illustrated by Lawrence LindellBlack, weird, awkward and proud of it. Welcome to the club!Tired of feeling like you don’t belong? You’d think a spot to chill, chat, and find community would be much easier to come by for nerdy, queer punks.Kids Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
The Collectors: StoriesA. S. KingThe Collectors: Stories is an anthology of young adult short stories edited by A.Kids Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
The Dark Ascension Series: The Wicked OnesRobin BenwayBefore they were known as the wicked ones, they were two sisters fighting to escape their mother's iron rule. Drizella and Anastasia only know one thing for certain: they never want to end up like their mother, Lady Tremaine.Kids Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
The Family FortunaLindsay EagarLindsay Eagar’s dazzling YA debut welcomes us backstage at the Family Fortuna circus, where wonders lie in wait to steal your breath away.Kids Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
Flight PlanEric WaltersTwo women entangled in a web of danger, deception, and unexpected desire. Will their fake romance be the key to survival, or will it unravel the very foundation of their hearts?Kids Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
Four Found DeadNatalie D. RichardsThe moviegoers have left, and Jo and her six coworkers have the final shift, a shift that quickly takes a dark turn.First a stranger arrives with a chilling accusation.Kids Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
Harvest HouseCynthia Leitich SmithNSK Neustadt Laureate and New York Times best-selling author Cynthia Leitich Smith delivers a thrilling cross-genre follow-up to the acclaimed Hearts Unbroken.Deftly leading readers to the literary crossroads of contemporary realism and haunting mystery, Cynthia Leitich Smith revisits the world of her American Indian Youth Literature Award winner Hearts Unbroken.Kids Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
The HauntingNatasha PrestonHill House stood abandoned six miles off the road. Four people came to learn its secrets. But Hill House stood holding darkness within.Kids Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
Imposter Syndrome and Other Confessions of Alejandra KimPatricia Park"Alejandra Kim doesn't feel like she belongs anywhere. At her wealthy Manhattan high school, her super Spanish name and super Korean face do not compute to her mostly white "woke" classmates and teachers.Kids Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
In LimboDeb JJ LeeA debut YA graphic memoir about a Korean-American girl's coming-of-age story—and a coming home story—set between a New Jersey suburb and Seoul, South Korea.Ever since Deborah (Jung-Jin) Lee emigrated from South Korea to the United States, she's felt her otherness.For a while, her English wasn’t perfect.Kids Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
The Last One to FallGabriella LeporeSavana Caruso and Jesse Melo have known each other since they were kids, so when Jesse asks Savana to meet him at Cray’s Warehouse in the middle of the night, she doesn’t hesitate.Kids Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
The LegaciesJessica GoodmanAt Excelsior Prep, the Legacy Ball isn’t just a fancy party—it’s a formal welcome to the ultra-exclusive Legacy Club, a vast social network of NYC’s wealthiest.Kids Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
Live Your Best LieJessie WeaverSometimes the prettiest Instagram feeds mask the darkest—and bloodiest—secrets.Social media influencer Summer Cartwright leads a charmed life: millions of followers, the trendiest designer and vintage clothes, a newly minted book deal, the coolest friends, and, until recently, the hottest boyfriend at her über-elite prep school.Kids Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
Lucha of the Night ForestTehlor Kay MejiaLucha of the Night Forest is a 2023 young adult fantasy novel by Tehlor Kay Mejia.Kids Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
my culture is not a costumeStirred Stories, illustrated by Suwin Chanmy culture is not a costume is a poetic mixtape, a concept piece that gives voice to complex yearnings and nuanced understandings of our shared humanity.Kids Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
No Boy SummerAmy SpaldingIn Amy Spalding’s charming young adult novel No Boy Summer, Lydia and her younger sister, Penny, make a pact to avoid boy drama for the summer—but Lydia can’t help looking for a loophole when she falls for a cute girl.Kids Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
Paper PlanesJennie Wood, illustrated by DozerdrawsCan Mia keep her friendship with Ben alive across the distance?Kids Favorites — 9th–12th GradeLexile AD580LATOS 3.8View book details
Plan ADeb Caletti"Sixteen-year-old Ivy's road trip across the country to get an abortion becomes a transformative journey of vulnerability, strength, and above all, choice."--Kids Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
The Princess & the Grilled Cheese SandwichDeya MunizA funny, heartfelt YA romance about finding love—and lots of grilled cheese sandwiches—in the place you least expect it, from rising talent Deya Muniz.Kids Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
Queen BeeAmalie HowardSince then, nationally recognized thought leader and speaker Rosalind Wiseman has interviewed and listened to thousands of girls talk about the powerful role cliques play in shaping what they wear and say, how they respond to boys, and how they feel about themselves.This fully revised and greatly updated edition of this parenting…Kids Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
Ride or DieDelilah S. DawsonA sleepover at an amusement park takes a chilling turn in this pulse-pounding horror from the New York Times bestselling author of Mine and Camp Scare. Turning fun into fear. . . .Kids Favorites — 9th–12th GradeWord count 47913View book details
RoamingJillian Tamaki, Mariko Tamaki, illustrated by Jillian Tamaki, Mariko Tamaki"Gloriously rendered… An ode to traveling as friends when you’re both young and carefree and every new experience is exciting and wondrous.”―Robert Ito, The New York Times Book ReviewSpring Break, 2009: Five days, three friends, and one big city.Roaming marks a triumphant return to the graphic novel and a deft foray into…Kids Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
Silver in the BoneAlexandra BrackenA girl races to find a legendary ring to save her brother from a curse.Kids Favorites — 9th–12th GradeLexile HL820LATOS 5.2View book details
A Spark in the CindersJenny Elder MokeHolly Black’s The Cruel Prince meets Jennifer Donnelly's Stepsister in this fairytale reimagining about a kingdom on the brink of ruin, and one wicked stepsister’s journey from side character to heroine of her own quest The story has reached it's happily ever after, the peasant girl has married her prince and become…Kids Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
Things I’ll Never SayCassandra NewbouldFifteen top young-adult authors let us in on provocative secrets in a fascinating collection that will have readers talking.A baby no one knows about.Kids Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
Vern, Custodian of the UniverseTyrell Waiters, illustrated by Tyrell WaitersA thought-provoking and hilarious romp through time and space from debut creator, Tyrell Waiters that explores what it means to be human in a world fraught with uncertainty."This is more than a graphic novel; it's an experience.Kids Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book detailsTeacher Favorites — K–2nd Grade
40 selections
Rank 1We Don’t Lose Our Class GoldfishRyan T. Higgins, illustrated by Ryan T. HigginsPenelope Rex faces her biggest (and fishiest) fear in this companion to the #1 New York Times best-selling We Don't Eat Our Classmates by Ryan T. Higgins.Penelope Rex has one fear: Walter, the class goldfish.Teacher Favorites — K–2nd GradeWord count 622View book details
Rank 2I Will Read to YouGideon Sterer, illustrated by Charles SantosoA gentle blend of spooky and sweet, I Will Read to You is a unique rhyming bedtime tale about empathy, storytime...and monsters.Teacher Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book detailsRank 3Scaredy CatsJeff MackWhen an adorable kitten receives a mysterious beribboned package, he’s pretty sure it’s a cake. But his two nervous friends have other ideas in this hilarious guessing game.“Hey, bud.Teacher Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book detailsRank 4Just One FlakeTravis JonkerA boy's quest to catch a snowflake leads to an unexpected discovery.Teacher Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book detailsRank 5Watch Out for the Lion!Brooke Hartman, illustrated by Anna SüßbauerA lurking lion awaits, but is it real or imagined?Teacher Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
Rank 6All Kinds of KidsBill Martin Jr., Michael Sampson, illustrated by Paul MeiselChildren may be different in how they look, what they like to do, and even what they like to eat, but they all have great smiles.Rookie Readers (Ages 5-7) have provided entertaining, high-quality introductions to reading for more than a generation.Teacher Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
Rank 7Daddy Dressed MeMichael Gardner, Ava Gardner, illustrated by Nadia FisherA father and daughter face self-doubt as they prepare for a special day, sewing love into every stitch.Teacher Favorites — K–2nd GradeLexile AD760LATOS 4.9View book details
Rank 8Molly’s TuxedoVicki Johnson, illustrated by Gillian ReidMolly wants to look her best for picture day at her school, and what looks better than a tux?Molly's school picture day is coming up, and she wants to have a perfect portrait taken to hang on their wall.Teacher Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book detailsRank 9Snake’s Big MistakeSarah Kurpiel, illustrated by Sarah KurpielSnake loves art class—until his project is a disaster, and he makes a terrible mistake that hurts a friend. How will Snake fix his mistake?Teacher Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
Rank 10Bitsy Bat, School StarKaz Windness, illustrated by Kaz WindnessA little bat learns to embrace her unique way of shining at school.Teacher Favorites — K–2nd GradeLexile 329LATOS 2.4View book details10 DogsEmily GravettTen dogs chase sausages, but can they learn to share?Teacher Favorites — K–2nd GradeLexile NP0LATOS 0.1View book detailsBack to School BackpackSimon Rich, illustrated by Tom ToroA backpack faces first-day-of-school jitters and existential angst in crowded hallways.Teacher Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book detailsThe Big CheeseJory John, illustrated by Pete OswaldA charismatic cheese learns to cope with losing and finds new meaning in life.Teacher Favorites — K–2nd GradeLexile AD420LATOS 2.9View book details
City BeetTziporah Cohen, illustrated by Udayana LugoThis clever, humorous take on an old folktale is a celebration of community and the ways we all come together. When a notice for a community potluck is posted, Victoria and her neighbor Mrs.Teacher Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book detailsDanbi’s Favorite DayAnna KimA girl's grand celebration plans falter, sparking a creative rescue mission.Teacher Favorites — K–2nd GradeLexile AD550LATOS 3.6View book detailsFrank and BertChris Naylor-Ballesteros, illustrated by Chris Naylor-BallesterosFrank and Bert want to go on a BIG bike ride.But there's one little problem.Bert is very slow and always wobbles.Uh-oh.But what if being fast isn't everything?Maybe - just maybe - Frank will find that by being a kind and thoughtful friend he can give Bert all the confidence he needs .…Teacher Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
Goodbye: A First Conversation About GriefMegan Madison, Jessica Ralli, illustrated by Isabel RoxasA picture book edition of the board book about grief, offering adults the opportunity to begin important conversations with young children in an informed, safe, and supported way.Teacher Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
Hattie Harmony: Opening NightElizabeth Olsen, Robbie Arnett, illustrated by Marissa ValdezIn this sequel to the #1 New York Times bestselling Hattie Harmony: Worry Detective by Elizabeth Olsen and Robbie Arnett, Hattie shares new tools for managing anxiety, just in time for opening night of the school play.It's opening night of the school play and there are plenty of nerves to go around!Teacher Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
Heart Berry BlingJenny Kay Dupuis, illustrated by Eva CampbellHeart Berry Bling is a 2023 illustrated children’s book written by Jenny Kay Dupuis, illustrated by Eva Campbell, and published by Portage & Main…Teacher Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
Hidden GemLinda Liu, illustrated by Linda LiuA pebble seeks self-worth among dazzling gems at the Museum of Rocks.Teacher Favorites — K–2nd GradeLexile AD440LATOS 3View book details
The Hole StoryKelly Canby, illustrated by Kelly CanbyA young sailor's creative solution leads to the birth of a beloved pastry.Teacher Favorites — K–2nd GradeLexile AD900LATOS 4.9View book detailsHoley MoleyBethan ClarkeGus the Goat and Mavis Mole will have you laughing out loud in this super-silly, quirky, and totally HOLE-ARIOUS guessing game of a story!Teacher Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book detailsJungle CatAndrew Larsen, illustrated by Udayana LugoAn indoor cat's wild adventure unites a community.Teacher Favorites — K–2nd GradeLexile AD440LATOS 3View book details
Lifesize Deadly AnimalsSophy Henn, illustrated by Sophy HennAre you ready for a perilous adventure to discover how YOU measure up against some of the world’s highly venomous and extremely ferocious animals?Teacher Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
Make More S’moresCathy Ballou Mealey, illustrated by Ariel LandyA raccoon's campfire feast attracts unexpected, hungry guests.Teacher Favorites — K–2nd GradeLexile 480LATOS 3.2View book detailsMake Way for Butterfly (A Very Impatient Caterpillar Book)Ross Burach, illustrated by Ross BurachMake way for another riotous adventure in the Very Impatient Caterpillar series that slyly combines science and social-emotional learning with laugh-out-loud humor!Teacher Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
MarkerAnna Kang, illustrated by Christopher WeyantA top school supply faces failure when a new rival arrives.Teacher Favorites — K–2nd GradeLexile AD490LATOS 2.5View book details
Meowl-o-weenDiane Muldrow, illustrated by Tiffany ChenA lost kitten must find courage on Meowl-o-ween night.Teacher Favorites — K–2nd GradeLexile AD550LATOS 3.6View book detailsMine!Candace FlemingAlong skirts Mouse. “An apple!” she squeaks, "How divine! When it tumbles to the ground, it’ll all be mine!” And so it goes, for Hare, Fox, Deer, and Bear, who each can't wait to get their hands on the apple.Teacher Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book detailsMy House, My FamilyC. Hope Flinchbaugh, illustrated by Laurel AylesworthSometimes I live with Mommy; Sometimes I stay with Dad. But we are all a family Whatever house I’m at. No two families look exactly alike, but every family is tied together by love.Teacher Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
Night Market RescueCharlotte Cheng, illustrated by Amber RenA stray dog stumbles upon the gift of friendship and maybe even the promise of home while wandering the delight-filled night market in Taipei.While resting on a stoop, Gogo smells something sweet and spicy on the breeze.Teacher Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book detailsNO Is All I Know!Chris Grabenstein, illustrated by Leo EspinosaA boy's endless 'no' meets a cousin's joyful 'yes,' transforming his world.Teacher Favorites — K–2nd GradeLexile AD450LATOS 3.1View book detailsOh, Olive!Lian Cho, illustrated by Lian ChoThe most magnificent and brilliant artist in the whole wide world! Her parents are also artists—serious artists—who paint prim, proper, perfect shapes.Teacher Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book detailsParty Hearty Kitty-CornShannon Hale, illustrated by LeUyen PhamA party plan goes awry when jealousy threatens a magical friendship.Teacher Favorites — K–2nd GradeWord count 527View book detailsRamen for EveryonePatricia Tanumihardja, illustrated by Shiho PateA boy's quest to perfect ramen leads to unexpected culinary challenges.Teacher Favorites — K–2nd GradeLexile 530LATOS 3.5View book details
Red & GreenLois Ehlert, illustrated by Lois EhlertThe classic story of the night before Christmas gets a humorous twist in this engaging holiday picture book filled with die-cuts from the acclaimed and beloved picture book creator, Lois Ehlert.It was a cold, wintery night, and all through the house, not a creature was stirring…except a small mouse!Teacher Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
See the Ghost: Three Stories About Things You Cannot SeeDavid LaRochelle, illustrated by Mike WohnoutkaThe Geisel Award–winning creators of See the Cat and See the Dog return for a comical new spoof on primers—and this time the cat, the dog, and the book are grappling with some curious things they can’t see.Teacher Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
Three Hens, a Peacock, and the Enormous EggLester L. Laminack, illustrated by Henry ColeFarm animals rescue an enormous egg from the road and then must figure out how to care for the mysterious creature. What could possibly be inside this egg and why is it taking so long to hatch?Teacher Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
Whose Egg Is That?Darrin LundeA nonfiction guessing game that explores the connections between an animal, its eggs, and its habitat.Teacher Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book detailsWolfboy is ScaredAndy HarknessBut . . . the rabbits should walk ahead. Wolfboy needs to watch their backs after all!Wait, are those monster claws? Maybe Wolfboy IS scared!With bold art and a high energy text perfect for reading aloud, Wolfboy Is Scared shows how being afraid is totally normal.Teacher Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book detailsTeacher Favorites — 3rd–5th Grade
40 selections
Rank 1A Take-Charge Girl Blazes a Trail to Congress: The Story of Jeannette RankinGretchen Woelfle, illustrated by Rebecca GibbonFor take-charge girls in the making and fans of I Dissent and Kamala Harris: Rooted in Justice , this is the story of Jeannette Rankin, the first US congresswoman.Teacher Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
Rank 2How the Sea Came to Be And All the Creatures In ItJennifer BerneEntrancing verse, awe-inspiring art from Amanda Hall, and wide-ranging back matter capture the mysterious beauty of the ocean and the incredible organisms who call it home.Teacher Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
Rank 3Poetry PromptsJoseph Coelho, illustrated by Grasya Oliyko, Amanda Quartey, Georgie Birkett, Viola WangDiscover the joy of expressing what’s inside you, with fill-in-the-blank poems that are sparking a creative movement We all have stories inside us—whether or not we consider ourselves “creative.” Poet and novelist Joseph Fasano has developed a remarkable tool that allows anyone to experience the joy of creative expression.Teacher Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
Rank 4Big TreeBrian Selznick, illustrated by Brian SelznickI thought I heard you calling me."A mysterious voice has been speaking to Louise in her dreams. She and her brother Merwin are Sycamore seeds, who hope to one day set down roots and become big trees.Teacher Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
Rank 5Giraffe MathStephen Swinburne, illustrated by Geraldo ValerioExplore giraffes through math and science in a fun, interactive journey.Teacher Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book detailsRank 6Once Upon a BookGrace Lin, Kate MessnerA book invites a girl into a world of adventure, but where does her heart truly belong?Teacher Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeLexile 440LATOS 3View book detailsRank 7Body Music: Poems About the Noises Your Body MakesJane Yolen, Ryan G. Van Cleave, illustrated by Luis San VicenteBodies make MUSIC! “Yolen and Van Cleave give voice to bodily noises―from butts that “BOOM” to giggles and gasps―in a riotously silly poetry collection perfectly tuned to a toilet humor–loving audience.”― Publishers Weekly “Funny, fact-filled, and succinct, this title will have broad appeal beyond the elementary aged audience it is intended for.Teacher Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book detailsRank 8Alithia Ramirez Was an ArtistViolet Lemay, illustrated by Alithia Ramirez2024 Reading the West Book Awards Winner, Picture BooksA 2024 CBC Children’s Favorites WinnerA 2024 CBC Librarian Favorites WinnerA 2024 CBC Teacher Favorites WinnerEric Hoffer Book Awards, 2024 Grand Prize WinnerNautilus Book Awards, 2024 Gold WinnerThe Book Fest, 2024 Gold Winner for Children’s HistoricalThe Book Fest, 2024 Silver Winner for Best Picture…Teacher Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
Rank 9A Funny Thing Happened After SchoolDavide Cali, illustrated by Benjamin ChaudThe latest book in Davide Cali and Benjamin Chaud's internationally acclaimed I Didn't Do My Homework Because . . . series is out of this world!Teacher Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeLexile 550LATOS 2.4View book details
Rank 10Eb & Flow (In Verse)Kelly J. BaptistA ten-day suspension has tweens De'Kari and Ebony seeing the world with a fresh perspective. No one thinks they’re wrong. Flow I don’t even hit girls . . . is what I’m thinking.Teacher Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
Alligator or Crocodile?Jennifer ShieldsIf a person were ever face-to-face with a huge, hungry animal with sharp teeth, they probably wouldn’t care exactly what that animal was.Teacher Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book detailsAn American StoryKwame AlexanderThis lyrically written book tells the story of slavery through the perspective of a teacher and their students. The text is complemented by powerful mixed-media art.Teacher Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book detailsAngel and the Paper TrailMakenzie Hice, illustrated by Natasja HorneHe finds a mysterious note inside a book at the library and sets off to find out who wrote it. Pretty soon, he finds himself surrounded by new friends who are all keen on deciphering the mystery as well!Teacher Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
Animals in Surprising Shades: Poems About Earth’s Colorful CreaturesSusan Johnston TaylorRosy pinks, regal blues, radiant greens Adorn birds, bugs, snails, slugs. Instead of paint on canvas, Nature colors feathers, fur, skin, scales.Teacher Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book detailsBean the Stretchy DragonAri StocrateMeet Bean—a stretchy, cheerful dragon who lives with a grumpy witch named Sally.Teacher Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book detailsBorder CrossingsSneed B. Collard III, illustrated by Howard GraySet in the north of England, Pat Barker's Border Crossing, the basis for the major motion picture The Drowning, portrays a child psychiatrist who rescues a man from drowning one day while walking on a beach in Northumberland.Teacher Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
The Brothers ZzliAlex Cousseau, illustrated by Anne-Lise Boutin, Vineet LalA moving allegory of immigration and hospitality. One day, the brothers Zzli come to the doorstep of a little girl named Welcome.Teacher Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book detailsBuilding a Dream: How the Boys of Koh Panyee Became ChampionsDarshana Khiani, illustrated by Dow PhumirukA tale of persistence and problem-solving, based on the true story of a Thai soccer team who made their own place to play.Teacher Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book detailsCat Jokes vs. Dog Jokes: A Read-from-Both-Sides Comic BookDavid Lewman, illustrated by John McNameeIn this silly, read-from-both sides, comic-style joke book for kids, one side is dog jokes told by cats, and the other side is cat jokes told by dogs--for more than 200 jokes in all!Teacher Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book detailsEllen Takes Flight: The Life of Astronaut Ellen OchoaDoreen RappaportA Junior Library Guild Selection, Bank Street College Best Children's Book of the Year, and National Science Teaching Association Best STEM Book ● Celebrate the groundbreaking life of astronaut and Johnson Space Center director Ellen Ochoa, the first Latina in space, in this "picture-book biography for tomorrow’s astronauts" (Booklist).Teacher Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
The Gift of Being DifferentMonica, Abigail Berg, illustrated by Sonia PossentiniWhat do you think goes into a mind of a child with dyslexia? Now’s your chance to delve into their minds and comprehend the power of being distinct.Teacher Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
Glitter Everywhere!Chris BartonFans of How It’s Made will love this fresh, irreverent look at the science and story behind glitter.If you love glitter, this book is for you.Teacher Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeLexile 950LATOS 6.3View book detailsThe Great Banned-Books Bake SaleAya Khalil, illustrated by Anait SemirdzhyanKanzi, the immigrant girl of Aya Khalil and Anait Semirdzhyan’s bestselling picture book The Arabic Quilt, has come to feel welcome in her American school―that is, until an entire shelf of books about immigrant kids and kids of color suddenly disappears from the school library.Teacher Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book detailsHow Do You Spell Unfair?: MacNolia Cox and the National Spelling BeeCarole Boston WeatherfordIn 1936, eighth grader MacNolia Cox became the first African American to win the Akron, Ohio, spelling bee.Teacher Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book detailsThe Kid with Big, Big IdeasBritney Winn Lee, illustrated by Jacob Souva"There once was a kid with glittery nails who always wore colorful socks, and all around town, this child was known for thinking outside of the box." Following the bestselling The Boy with Big, Big Feelings and The Girl with Big, Big Questions comes a new story about a kid with ideas…Teacher Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book detailsThe King Without a Trade: English-Ukrainian Bilingual EditionIdries Shah, illustrated by Charlotte MarshallA king, who wants for nothing, learns that a life of plenty doesn't make up for a lack of skills or common sense.Teacher Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
Less is More: Join the Low-Waste MovementLeah PayneAll over the world, people are joining the low-waste movement and getting tough on their trash. Maybe you’ve heard the reports of the Great Pacific Garbage Patch swirling in the ocean.Teacher Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
Low PowerMichael RexThis book teaches basic and advanced concepts, new methodologies and recent developments in VLSI technology with a focus on low power design.Teacher Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book detailsLuna RancheraRodrigo MorlesinWelcome to the show! ¡Bienvenidos!Teacher Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
Major Taylor: World Cycling ChampionCharles R. Smith JrA Coretta Scott King Award winner and a Pura Belpré Illustrator Honor winner pair up for a rousing picture book biography-in-verse of legendary African American cyclist Marshall “Major” Taylor and the Six-Day Race.One hundred years ago, one of the most popular spectator sports was bicycle racing, and the man to beat was…Teacher Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book detailsMonster Support Group: The Mummy’s CurseLaura Suárez, illustrated by Laura SuárezA cursed pharaoh must learn humility to escape her ancient tomb.Teacher Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
NoticingKobi Yamada, illustrated by Elise HurstDiscover the hidden magic in everyday life through a young girl's eyes.Teacher Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
On the Edge of the WorldAnna Desnitskaya, illustrated by Anna Desnitskaya, Lena TraerThe United States Board on Books for Young People (USBBY) Outstanding International Books List - Grades 3-5 (2024)A uniquely formatted book about dreams, loneliness, and the universal longing for connection.Teacher Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
The One and Only RubyKatherine ApplegateA young elephant navigates her way through life, learning about her past, her family, and herself.Teacher Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeLexile 650LATOS 4.2View book detailsThe Queen of Chess: How Judit Polgár Changed the GameLaurie Wallmark, illustrated by Stevie LewisThis is the true story of how Judit Polgár captivated the world as she battled to become the youngest chess grandmaster in history! "I was at both events where Judit got her first IM norm (I drew her in the last round) and her last GM norm, and I was fortunate enough…Teacher Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
Squished: A Graphic NovelMegan Wagner Lloyd, Michelle Mee NutterFrom the Eisner-nominated duo behind the instant bestseller Allergic comes a fun graphic novel about finding your own space… especially when you're in a family of nine!Teacher Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeLexile GN520LATOS 3.4View book detailsTacos TodayRaúl the Third, illustrated by Raúl the ThirdYoung luchadores must creatively earn money for their favorite tacos.Teacher Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
They Hold the LineDan PaleyA 2023 Chicago Public Library Best Book A tribute to the unsung heroes of firefighting that takes readers along on a high-stakes mission to battle one of the deadliest natural disasters.A lone figure stands on a tower, watching and waiting.Teacher Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeLexile 840LATOS 5.4View book details
What’s Inside a Caterpillar Cocoon?Rachel Ignotofsky, illustrated by Rachel IgnotofskyExplore the enchanting world of butterflies and moths, revealing their secrets and transformations.Teacher Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeLexile AD700LATOS 4.5View book details
A Whole World of ArtSarah Phillips, illustrated by Dion Mehaga Bangun DjayasaputraThis beautifully illustrated book seeks to tell children the true story of art, in which the rich visual canon from every culture is explored by looking at key works from different times and places.Teacher Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book detailsTeacher Favorites — 6th–8th Grade
40 selections
Rank 1My SelmaWillie Mae BrownAs the civil rights movement and the fight for voter rights unfold in Selma, Alabama, many things happen inside and outside the Brown family’s home that do not have anything to do with the landmark 1965 march across the Edmund Pettus Bridge.Teacher Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book detailsRank 2School TripJerry Craft, illustrated by Jerry CraftA school trip to Paris turns chaotic when guides change unexpectedly. Can they navigate new challenges abroad?Teacher Favorites — 6th–8th GradeWord count 17119View book details
Rank 3We Need To Talk About VaginasAllison K. Rodgers, illustrated by Annika Le LargeDo you know the difference between a vagina and a vulva? If you’re not sure, We Need to Talk About Vaginas by TikToker Dr.Teacher Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book details
Rank 4Just Jerry: How Drawing Shaped My LifeJerry PinkneySince childhood, it was how he made sense of the world—how he coped with the stress of being a sensitive child growing up in crowded spaces, struggling with a learning disability, in a time when the segregation of Black Americans was the norm.Teacher Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book details
Rank 5Aniana del Mar Jumps InJasminne MendezBut she and Papi keep her swim practices and meets hidden from Mami, who has never recovered from losing someone she loves to the water years ago.Teacher Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book details
Rank 6The Windeby PuzzleLois LowryTwo outcasts defy tradition in a perilous Iron Age world. Can they survive the dangers of their time?Teacher Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book details
Rank 7I Am KaviThushanthi PonweeraCaught between two worlds—a poverty-stricken village and a fancy big-city school—a young Sri Lankan girl must decide who she really is and where she really belongs.1998, Colombo.Teacher Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book details
Rank 8A Mighty Long Way (Adapted for Young Readers)Carlotta Walls LaNier with Lisa Frazier PageFollow the story of Carlotta Walls LaNier, who in 1957 at the age of fourteen was one of nine black students who integrated the all-white Little Rock Central High School and became known as the Little Rock Nine.Teacher Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book detailsRank 9Hour of Need: The Daring Escape of the Danish Jews during World War IIRalph Shayne, illustrated by Tatiana GoldbergHour of Need is a graphic novel telling the true story of the resistance to Nazi rule in Denmark during World War II and the heroes that saved the Danish Jews by helping them evacuate to Sweden.In the Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale, legend had it that should danger ever come to…Teacher Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book detailsRank 10Remember UsJacqueline WoodsonTwelve-year-old Sage experiences a summer of self-discovery as she spends her days playing basketball and watching fires overtake the beloved Bushwick neighborhood where she lives in this novel set in the 1970s.Teacher Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book detailsAbeni’s SongP. Djèlí ClarkIN DARKNESS, A SONG CAN LEAD THE WAY. BEWARE WHICH ONE YOU LISTEN TO. It’s too late to run. They are coming.Warriors with burning blades storm the village.Teacher Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book details
The Antiracist Kitchen: 21 Stories (and Recipes)Nadia L. Hohn★“Twenty-one kid-lit authors of color share a wide array of delicious recipes as well as personal experiences related to culture, race, and racism.Teacher Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book details
The Astronaut’s Guide to Leaving the Planet: Everything You Need to Know, from Training to Re-entryTerry Virts, illustrated by Andrés LozanoIn this exciting book, a former NASA astronaut inspires the next generation of space travelers with answers to all kids' questions on how people become astronauts, how they prepare for space travel, and what it's like to live and work in space.Teacher Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book details
Calling the Moon: 16 Period Stories from BIPOC AuthorsAida Salazar, Yamile Saied MendezAn essential, highly relatable collection of short fiction and poems around the topic of menstruation, written exclusively by authors who are Black, Indigenous, and/or people of colorFor Angela, it came on the basketball court—while playing on the boys’ team.Teacher Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book detailsColin Kaepernick: Change the Game (Graphic Novel Memoir)Colin Kaepernick, Eve L. Ewing, illustrated by Orlando CaicedoColin Change the Game is an inspiring high school graphic novel memoir for readers 12 and up from celebrated athlete and activist Colin Kaepernick.Teacher Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book detailsThe Death & Life of Benny BrooksEthan LongBenny Brooks has a lot on his mind: his older brother won’t stop picking on him, his crush has no idea he exists, and he’s struggling in every class except art.Teacher Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book detailsDoña Quixote: Rise of the KnightRey Terciero, illustrated by Monica M. MagañaBut to the people in their Texas town, he was just a strange old man who dressed up as a knight and claimed to save the world from monsters only he could see.Teacher Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book details
Farewell Cuba, Mi IslaAlexandra DiazTwo girls flee 1960 Cuba, seeking safety and family reunion in America.Teacher Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book details
GallowgateK. R. AlexanderA cursed boy battles ghosts at a mysterious academy, where secrets threaten his survival.Teacher Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book detailsGarvey’s Choice: The Graphic NovelNikki Grimes, illustrated by Theodore Taylor IIIGarvey’s father has always wanted Garvey to be athletic, but Garvey is interested in astronomy, science fiction, reading—anything but sports. Feeling like a failure, he comforts himself with food.Teacher Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book details
The Great Cold Queen: A Poppenohna Land Adventure (Book 1)Carrie Turley, illustrated by Lara LawIn the land of Poppenohna, just past Tickletoes river, lies Fairy Glade. When two adventurous gnomes, Murray and Apple Blossom, stop to explore, they soon realize the glade is more than just grass and trees.Teacher Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book detailsHandsTorrey MaldonadoA boy must choose between fighting or creating to protect his family.Teacher Favorites — 6th–8th GradeLexile HL430LATOS 3.1View book detailsHow to Handle STRESS for Middle School SuccessSilvi Guerra, illustrated by DeAndra Hodge“Smart and essential!”—Jeff Kinney, Diary of a Wimpy KidMiddle school can be stressful. On the outside, you can look like everything is going great.Teacher Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book details
How to NAVIGATE Middle SchoolAnna Pozzatti, Bonnie Massimino, illustrated by DeAndra Hodge“Smart and essential!”—Jeff Kinney, author of Diary of a Wimpy Kid series"They used to tell kids to chant 'sticks and stones' or 'just ignore it.' It didn't work.Teacher Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book details
How to Stay InvisibleMaggie C. RuddA boy and his dog must survive alone in the woods, facing nature and trust challenges.Teacher Favorites — 6th–8th GradeLexile 730LATOS 4.7View book details
KaribaDaniel Clarke, James Clarke, Daniel Snaddon, illustrated by Daniel Clarke2023 ALA Best Graphic Novels for Children The daughter of a river god, raised by a human father and bound to a tragic destiny.Teacher Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book detailsMapmakers and the Enchanted MountainCameron Chittock, Amanda CastilloA Mapmaker must restore magic and face hidden dangers as time runs out.Teacher Favorites — 6th–8th GradeLexile GN270LATOS 2.1View book detailsThe Mark of Athena: The Graphic NovelRick Riordan, illustrated by Orpheus CollarThe third exciting entry in Rick Riordan's best-selling Heroes of Olympus series is now a graphic novel! In The Son of Neptune , Percy, Hazel, and Frank met in Camp Jupiter, the Roman equivalent of Camp Half-Blood, and traveled to the land beyond the gods to complete a dangerous quest.Teacher Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book detailsMascotCharles Waters, Traci SorellA school mascot sparks a heated debate, challenging students to confront identity and tradition.Teacher Favorites — 6th–8th GradeLexile 710LATOS 4.9View book detailsThe Moth KeeperK. O'NeillA Moth Keeper's choice threatens her village's survival. Can she protect what matters most?Teacher Favorites — 6th–8th GradeLexile GN710LATOS 4.5View book details
Race Against Death: The Greatest POW Rescue of World War II (Scholastic Focus)Deborah HopkinsonA thrilling account of the most daring American P.O.W. rescue mission of World War II. Scholastic Focus is the premier home of thoroughly researched, beautifully written, and thoughtfully designed works of narrative nonfiction aimed at middle-grade and young adult readers.Teacher Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book details
Race for the Ruby TurtleStephen BramucciA boy's quest for a mythical turtle tests his courage and priorities.Teacher Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book details
Sky RopesSondra SoderborgA girl must confront her deepest fears at camp, facing a ropes course and her past.Teacher Favorites — 6th–8th GradeLexile 660LATOS 4.3View book detailsThe Spirit GlassRoshani ChokshiA stolen key threatens the balance between worlds. Can Corazon restore it before all hope is lost?Teacher Favorites — 6th–8th GradeLexile 710LATOS 4.5View book detailsA Spoonful of TimeFlora AhnA bite of food sends Maya and her grandmother back in time, revealing family secrets.Teacher Favorites — 6th–8th GradeLexile 750LATOS 4.8View book details
Sunshine: A Graphic NovelJarrett J. Krosoczka, illustrated by Jarrett J. KrosoczkaHe returns from Bible camp to find that Alex, his secret boyfriend, has had a breakdown and disappeared. He wishes more than anything that he hadn’t left that day.Teacher Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book detailsTagging FreedomRhonda RoumaniKareem Haddad of Damascus, Syria, never dreamed of becoming a graffiti artist. But when a group of boys from another town tag subversive slogans outside their school, and another boy is killed while in custody, Kareem and his friends are inspired to start secretly tagmessages of freedom around their city.Teacher Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book details
This Indian Kid: A Native American Memoir (Scholastic Focus)Eddie ChuculateScholastic Focus is the premier home of thoroughly researched, beautifully written, and thoughtfully designed works of narrative nonfiction aimed at middle-grade and young adult readers.Teacher Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book details
Time to RollJamie SumnerEllie enters a pageant, challenging perceptions and friendships.Teacher Favorites — 6th–8th GradeLexile 750LATOS 4.9View book details
The Umbrella HouseColleen Nelson, map by Peggy CollinsShe and her best friend Scout already make YouTube videos together about East Village life, so when Veracity News announces a Young Voices video competition, Roxy knows it’s the perfect opportunity to make a name for herself, if only she can find a story worth telling.Teacher Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book detailsTeacher Favorites — 9th–12th Grade
40 selections
Rank 1Pride and Prejudice and PittsburghRachael LippincottAudrey Cameron has lost her spark. But after getting dumped by her first love and waitlisted at her dream art school all in one week, she has no intention of putting her heart on the line again to get it back.Teacher Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
Rank 2The Other Pandemic: An AIDS MemoirLynn CurleeA searing photo-illustrated historical memoir from the LGBTQIA+ frontlines of the AIDS epidemic of the 1980s and 1990s.Before COVID-19 made "pandemic" a household word in 2020, there was the AIDS pandemic of the 1980s and 1990s.Teacher Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
Rank 3Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: Recharged VolRyan Parrott, illustrated by Marco Renna, Moisés HidalgoThe newly relaunched, recharged Mighty Morphin Power Rangers continues, perfect for new and long time fans alike! In dreams of the distant past and the battle for Earth and the Moon, new revelations about Zedd, Zordon, and Rita are uncovered.Teacher Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
Rank 4Make Me a LiarMelissa LandersVeronica Mars gets a fantastical twist in this novel about a girl with a transferrable consciousness, who uses her power for good, only to have it turned on her when someone uses her body to commit murder.Teacher Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book detailsRank 5Plan ADeb Caletti"Sixteen-year-old Ivy's road trip across the country to get an abortion becomes a transformative journey of vulnerability, strength, and above all, choice."--Teacher Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
Rank 6Hidden: A True Story of the HolocaustKati Preston, illustrated by Dilleen MarshA young girl, who's extended family perished in the Holocaust, grows up to share her story of survival and educate those on the consequences of hate and prejudice.Teacher Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
Rank 7Araña and Spider-Man 2099: Dark TomorrowAlex SeguraAnya has to look deep within herself to stave off a looming immortal threat and save the universe. When Anya comes into her spider powers, it's hardly smooth sailing--or smooth web-slinging, as it were.Teacher Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
Rank 8Gay Club!Simon James GreenQueer teens face scandals and secrets in a heated election. Can they unite against a looming threat?Teacher Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
Rank 9Ab(solutely) Normal: Short Stories That Smash Mental Health StereotypesNora Shalaway Carpenter, Rocky CallenChanneling their own experiences, sixteen exceptional authors subvert mental health stereotypes in a powerful and uplifting collection of fiction. A teen activist wrestles with protest-related anxiety and PTSD.Teacher Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
Rank 10Spice RoadMaiya Ibrahim★ THE SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLER ★ Raised to protect her nation from the monsters lurking in the sands, sixteen-year-old Imani must fight to find her brother, whose betrayal is now the country's greatest threat.Teacher Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
Accountable: The True Story of a Racist Social Media Account and the Teenagers Whose Lives It ChangedDashka SlaterYALSA AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN NONFICTION WINNERCalifornia Book Award WinnerJ. Over time, the edge got sharper. Then a few other kids found out about the account.Teacher Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book detailsAya: An Anthology of Racial Justice, Healing and the Black ExperienceVeronica Chapman, Kevin Reese, illustrated by Erianna JilesAya is an anthology produced by Black Minnesota voices. Youth and community activists shared their reflections on justice and healing. This 2022 publication is its inaugural edition.Teacher Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
Being Ace: An Anthology of Queer, Trans, Femme, and Disabled Stories of Asexual Love and ConnectionMadeline Dyer with contributing authorsPublishers Weekly Announcement: Tamara Grasty at Page Street has bought Being Ace, a YA anthology edited by Madeline Dyer, including short stories and poetry in multiple genres from contemporary to fantasy to science fiction that celebrate and explore the sub-identities of the asexual spectrum from a mixture of established and emerging YA…Teacher Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
Blood DebtsTerry J. Benton-WalkerGODS MEDDLE AND MAGIC WILL BETRAY YOU, BUT THIS TIME JUSTICE WILL REIGN.Terry J. Benton-Walker's contemporary fantasy debut, Blood Debts, is "an extravaganza from start to finish" (Chloe Gong) with powerful magical families, intergenerational curses, and deadly drama in New Orleans.A National Indie Bestseller.Teacher Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
BorderlessJennifer De LeonMamá is her biggest supporter, taking on extra jobs to pay for what the scholarship doesn’t cover, and she might be even more excited than Maya about what the fashion show could do for her future career.Teacher Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
Bring Me Your MidnightRachel GriffinHer life has been planned out since the moment she was born: she is to marry the governor's son, Landon, and secure an unprecedented alliance between the witches of her island home and the mainlanders who see her very existence as a threat.Tana's coven has appeased those who fear their power for…Teacher Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
Chaos TheoryNic StoneA new thriller from the master of suspense - When stuntman Noah Flynn finds a strange medallion with what appear to be ancient cuneiform markings, little does he suspect there will be disastrous consequences for those around him.Teacher Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book detailsThe Collectors: StoriesA. S. KingThe Collectors: Stories is an anthology of young adult short stories edited by A.Teacher Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
The Eternal Return of Clara HartLouise FinchClara Hart hits my car. Anthony goes upstairs with Clara. Clara Hart hits my car… Why can’t I break this loop?Teacher Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
Family StyleThien PhamA Vietnamese boy's journey through food reveals his quest for belonging in America.Teacher Favorites — 9th–12th GradeLexile 401LATOS 2.8View book detailsHarvest HouseCynthia Leitich SmithNSK Neustadt Laureate and New York Times best-selling author Cynthia Leitich Smith delivers a thrilling cross-genre follow-up to the acclaimed Hearts Unbroken.Deftly leading readers to the literary crossroads of contemporary realism and haunting mystery, Cynthia Leitich Smith revisits the world of her American Indian Youth Literature Award winner Hearts Unbroken.Teacher Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
House Partyjustin a. reynoldsHow many love stories can play out over the course of a single house party?Teacher Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book detailsHungry GhostVictoria YingA secret struggle with eating disorders forces a life-changing decision.Teacher Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book detailsInvisible SonKim JohnsonAfter spending two months in a juvenile detention center for a crime he did not commit, seventeen-year-old Andre Jackson returns home and tries to adapt to a Covid-19 world and find his missing best friend.Teacher Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
Last Canto of the DeadDaniel José OlderTwo gods-turned-teenagers wage simultaneous battles in the Caribbean and Brooklyn in this breathless sequel to BALLAD & DAGGER.Healer. Mateo Matisse and Chela Hidalgo are not just two teenagers in lovethey're powerful gods in human form.Teacher Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book detailsLive Your Best LieJessie WeaverSometimes the prettiest Instagram feeds mask the darkest—and bloodiest—secrets.Social media influencer Summer Cartwright leads a charmed life: millions of followers, the trendiest designer and vintage clothes, a newly minted book deal, the coolest friends, and, until recently, the hottest boyfriend at her über-elite prep school.Teacher Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
Love in Winter WonderlandAbiola BelloThe Sun Is Also a Star meets You’ve Got Mail in this YA Christmas love story set in a London Black-owned bookshop.Charming, handsome Trey Anderson balances the pressures of school popularity with a job at his family’s beloved local bookshop, Wonderland.Quirky, creative Ariel Spencer needs tuition for the prestigious art program of…Teacher Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book detailsMany Deaths of Laila Starr, The Deluxe Edition HCRam V, illustrated by Filipe AndradeHumanity is on the verge of discovering immortality. As a result, the avatar of Death is cast down to Earth to live a mortal life in Mumbai as twenty-something Laila Starr.Teacher Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
Miles Morales Suspended: A Spider-Man NovelJason Reynolds, illustrated by Zeke PeñaMiles Morales is still just your average teenager. He has unexpectedly become totally obsessed with poetry and can never seem to do much more than babble around his crush.Teacher Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
The Night in Question (An Agatha’s Mystery, #2)Kathleen Glasgow, Liz LawsonHow do you solve a murder? Follow the lessons of the master—Agatha Christie!Teacher Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book detailsNorthrangerRey Terciero, illustrated by Bre IndigoIn this swoony and spooky teen summer romance graphic novel set on a Texas ranch, sixteen-year-old Cade Mu�oz finds himself falling for the ranch owner's mysterious and handsome son, only to discover that he may be harboring a dangerous secret.Teacher Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book detailsOur Divine Mischief: The Course of True Love Never Did Lack ChaosHanna C. HowardTome Society Book Award Winner 2025 - 2026 A sweeping YA fantasy inspired by Scottish history and folklore, Our Divine Mischief takes readers on a journey told in three voices: a determined heroine, an outcast young man, and a wish-granting canine.Teacher Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
The Pirate and the Porcelain GirlEmily Riesbeck, illustrated by NJ BarnaI want to be interesting. I want to be enough.” That was Ferra Brickminder’s prayer to win back the love of her life.Teacher Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
A Ruinous FateKaylie Smith"A spellbinding debut brimming with adventure, romance, and loveable characters you’ll gladly follow into the shadows."—Alexandra Bracken, #1 New York Times best-selling author of Lore From the #1 New York Times and USA Today best-selling author of the Wicked Games series, enter a world on the brink of war, where one more…Teacher Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
She Is A HauntingTrang Thanh TranWilliam C. Morris Debut Award FinalistInstant New York Times and Indie BestsellerThis house eats and is eaten . . ."A riveting debut from a remarkable new voice!Teacher Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
Sleepless in DubaiSajni PatelFrom the author of My Sister's Big Fat Indian Wedding comes a hilarious, smart, and utterly swoon-worthy rom-com about two teens traveling to Dubai for the Festival of Lights.Nikki, an aspiring photographer, is accompanying her family on a trip to the glittering city of Dubai to celebrate the five days of Diwali…Teacher Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
UnravellerFrances HardingeIn a world where anyone can create a life-destroying curse, only one person has the power to unravel them. Kellen does not fully understand his talent but helps those transformed maliciously—including Nettle.Teacher Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
We Deserve MonumentsJas HammondsFamily secrets and a town's dark past challenge a teen's quest for truth.Teacher Favorites — 9th–12th GradeLexile HL730LATOS 5View book detailsWe Don’t Swim HereVincent TiradoAnd she will make them pay. A chilling new novel for fans of Tiffany D. Jackson, Lamar Giles, and Ryan Douglass.Bronwyn is only supposed to be in rural Hillwoods for a year.Teacher Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
WolfwoodMarianna BaerGwendolyn McMillan Lawe was born in Emory, Texas, (in the "Wolf Community") the only daughter of A.C. and Modis McMillan. She attended Sand Flat School (in Emory, Texas), St.Teacher Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book detailsLibrarian Favorites — K–2nd Grade
40 selections
Rank 1100 Mighty Dragons All Named BroccoliDavid LaRochelle, illustrated by Lian Cho"A nonstop dragon party . . . High on a mountain live 100 mighty dragons all named Broccoli. When a tremendous wind blows half the dragons away, ten others sail off to become professional surfers in Hawaii.Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
Rank 2My Powerful HairCarole LindstromA girl grows her hair long, reclaiming her heritage and honoring her ancestors.Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeLexile 530LATOS 3.5View book details
Rank 3There’s Always Room for One MoreRobyn Mcgrath, illustrated by Ishaa LoboBut with Grandpa moving in, Mama says they need a bigger one. Clare is excited for Grandpa’s arrival, but not ready to say goodbye to the old table.Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
Rank 4Have You Seen My Invisible Dinosaur?the authorA young child with an invisible dinosaur laments about the struggle of finding something lost.Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeWord count 143View book detailsRank 5This Book Is My Best FriendRobin RobinsonWhen two young readers reach for the same book at the library, they set off on a charming romp through the stacks in this rambunctious and endearing picture book.Sunny and Aarush both love to read.Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeLexile AD500LATOS 3.3View book details
Rank 6Some of These Are SnailsCarter Higgins, illustrated by Carter HigginsPress Here meets Eric Carle in a concept book that makes familiar ideas exciting and surprising.From the creative mind behind Circle Under Berry comes this deceptively simple concept book that explores sorting, classification, and patterns as it teases the brain in unusual ways.Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
Rank 7Old to JoyAnita Crawford Clark, illustrated by Anita Crawford ClarkWinner of the 2024 CBC Librarian Favorites AwardJoy's Grandmama lives in an old house, on an old street, with old trees and all kinds of old things.Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
Rank 8Granny RexKurtis Scaletta, illustrated by Nik HendersonA tiny bird channels her dinosaur ancestry to confront a neighborhood hawk.Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
Rank 9The Penguin of Ilha GrandeShannon Earle, illustrated by Renato AlarcãoA man rescues a penguin off the coast of Brazil and finds a lifelong connection in this delightful true story about the power of friendship.Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
Rank 10Something Happened to Our Planet: Kids Tackle the Climate CrisisMarianne Celano, Marietta Collins, illustrated by Bhagya MadanasingheWritten to help parents begin conversations with their children about a challenging and important topic, Something Happened to Our Planet describes the narrator's efforts to help the planet with her friends, by advocating for re-usable plates at her school.Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
10 CatsEmily Gravett, illustrated by Emily GravettA playful picture book about ten kittens whose games with buckets of paint turn them and their sleeping mother into colorful works of art.Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeWord count 33View book details
Books Make Good FriendsJane Mount, illustrated by Jane MountA shy booklover discovers magic in everyday moments and unexpected friendships.Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
Cooler Than LemonadeHarshita Jerath, illustrated by Chloe BurgettEva's lemonade stand faces fierce competition. Can she find a fresh idea to succeed?Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeLexile AD470LATOS 3.2View book details
Ganesha’s Great RaceSanjay Patel, Emily Haynes, illustrated by Sanjay PatelThe sweets-loving elephant Ganesha and his mouse companion are back!Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
How This Book Got RedMargaret Chiu Greanias, illustrated by Melissa IwaiA red panda writes her own story to be seen.Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeLexile AD490LATOS 2.1View book detailsI Want 100 DogsStacy McAnulty, illustrated by Claire KeaneIn this funny, feel-good first-pet book, one aspiring dog owner and her parents ponder—in wildly imaginative and hilarious detail—all the best and worst outcomes of bringing home more dogs than you can (literally) shake a stick at.Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeWord count 220View book details
The Kindest RedIbtihaj Muhammad, S. K. Ali, illustrated by Hatem AlyFaizah discovers the unexpected power of kindness on picture day.Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeWord count 690View book details
The Littlest Yak and the New ArrivalLu Fraser, illustrated by Kate HindleyA little yak wonders if there's enough love for her and a new sibling.Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
Lolo’s Sari-sari StoreSophia N. LeeA little girl holds lessons learned in her grandfather’s sari-sari store close while adjusting to a new home in this sweet picture book about the joy of community, connection, and Filipino culture.For one girl, summers used to mean helping Lolo run his sari-sari store, which was always brimming with goods for the…Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book detailsLong Goes to Dragon SchoolHelen H. Wu, illustrated by Mae BesomA dragon struggles to fit in at school where fire-breathing is key.Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeLexile AD550LATOS 3.6View book details
Ludwig and the RhinocerosNoemi Schneider, illustrated by GOLDEN COSMOS"Hugely entertaining." –Mac Barnett for The New York Times Does something exist even if you can’t see it? A humorous bedtime story for budding philosophers.“There's a rhinoceros in my room!” Ludwig claims.Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
Mermaid and PirateTracey Baptiste, illustrated by Leisl AdamsA mermaid and pirate forge an unlikely friendship amidst stormy seas.Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book detailsMine!Candace FlemingAlong skirts Mouse. “An apple!” she squeaks, "How divine! When it tumbles to the ground, it’ll all be mine!” And so it goes, for Hare, Fox, Deer, and Bear, who each can't wait to get their hands on the apple.Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
Mother of SharksMelissa Cristina Márquez, illustrated by Devin Elle KurtzA young girl discovers her destiny in the ocean's depths.Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeLexile 620LATOS 4View book details
The New BicycleDarcy Day Zoells, illustrated by Darcy Day ZoellsGold Medal Winner of the 2022 Key Colors Competition, the biennial national contest for illustrators of children’s books. "I loved the lyrical but simple language, which was well-matched to the elegant and representational line drawings, filled with watercolor.Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book detailsNight Market RescueCharlotte Cheng, illustrated by Amber RenA stray dog stumbles upon the gift of friendship and maybe even the promise of home while wandering the delight-filled night market in Taipei.While resting on a stoop, Gogo smells something sweet and spicy on the breeze.Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
The Noise Inside BoysPete OswaldBrothers at the beach face emotions that can't be ignored.Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeLexile AD450LATOS 3.1View book details
The North Wind and the SunPhilip C. SteadThe sun is able to achieve with his gentle warmth a task the north wind could not perform with all his strength.Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book detailsParty Hearty Kitty-CornShannon Hale, illustrated by LeUyen PhamA party plan goes awry when jealousy threatens a magical friendship.Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeWord count 527View book details
A Pigeon in Paris: Petite Takes FlightPaige Howard, illustrated by Joanie StoneWhen mother pigeon arrives in Paris she knows it's the perfect place to call home--for a while. She makes her nest and lays her eggs and, when her babies hatch, nurtures them until they're strong enough to take flight.Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
Pup and Dragon: How to Catch an ElfAlice Walstead, illustrated by Paul GillCan Pup and Dragon catch Santa's elusive helper before Christmas?Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeLexile GN500LATOS 3.3View book details
The Recess Genius 1Janet Sumner Johnson, illustrated by Stacy EbertIntroducing the playground problem solver who uses quick thinking, practicality, tenacity, and a little creative perspective to help her schoolmates out of their stickiest jams; From the author of Help Must Love Books and the illustrator of Hello World !Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book detailsScaredy CatsJeff MackWhen an adorable kitten receives a mysterious beribboned package, he’s pretty sure it’s a cake. But his two nervous friends have other ideas in this hilarious guessing game.“Hey, bud.Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book detailsThe SkullJon KlassenIn a big abandoned house, on a barren hill, lives a skull. A brave girl named Otilla has escaped from terrible danger and run away, and when she finds herself lost in the dark forest, the lonely house beckons.Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book details
Something, SomedayAmanda Gorman, illustrated by Christian RobinsonCan small actions change a broken world?Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeLexile AD430LATOS 2.9View book details
Sometimes I KaploomRachel Vail, illustrated by Hyewon YumA child struggles with bravery and fear during emotional goodbyes.Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeWord count 420View book details
A Walk in the WoodsNikki GrimesIn this moving account of loss, a boy takes a walk in the woods and makes a discovery that changes his understanding of his father.A week after the funeralI stare in the morning mirror,angry that my father’s eyes stare back at me.Confused and distraught after the death of his father, a boy…Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book detailsWe Don’t Lose Our Class GoldfishRyan T. Higgins, illustrated by Ryan T. HigginsPenelope Rex faces her biggest (and fishiest) fear in this companion to the #1 New York Times best-selling We Don't Eat Our Classmates by Ryan T. Higgins.Penelope Rex has one fear: Walter, the class goldfish.Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeWord count 622View book details
Willow and BunnyAnitra Rowe Schulte, illustrated by Christopher DeniseA storm tests a forest's bonds, leaving a community to rebuild and heal.Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeLexile AD580LATOS 3.8View book details
Zora, the Story KeeperEbony Joy Wilkins, illustrated by Dare CoulterA young Black girl and her aunt celebrate the wonder and magic of their family's legacy through storytelling.When Zora grows up, she wants to be just like Aunt Bea.Librarian Favorites — K–2nd GradeView book detailsLibrarian Favorites — 3rd–5th Grade
40 selections
Rank 1The Great Banned-Books Bake SaleAya Khalil, illustrated by Anait SemirdzhyanKanzi, the immigrant girl of Aya Khalil and Anait Semirdzhyan’s bestselling picture book The Arabic Quilt, has come to feel welcome in her American school―that is, until an entire shelf of books about immigrant kids and kids of color suddenly disappears from the school library.Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book detailsRank 2How Do You Spell Unfair?: MacNolia Cox and the National Spelling BeeCarole Boston WeatherfordIn 1936, eighth grader MacNolia Cox became the first African American to win the Akron, Ohio, spelling bee.Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book detailsRank 3Once Upon a BookGrace Lin, Kate MessnerA book invites a girl into a world of adventure, but where does her heart truly belong?Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeLexile 440LATOS 3View book detailsRank 4The Kid with Big, Big IdeasBritney Winn Lee, illustrated by Jacob Souva"There once was a kid with glittery nails who always wore colorful socks, and all around town, this child was known for thinking outside of the box." Following the bestselling The Boy with Big, Big Feelings and The Girl with Big, Big Questions comes a new story about a kid with ideas…Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book detailsRank 5Alithia Ramirez Was an ArtistViolet Lemay, illustrated by Alithia Ramirez2024 Reading the West Book Awards Winner, Picture BooksA 2024 CBC Children’s Favorites WinnerA 2024 CBC Librarian Favorites WinnerA 2024 CBC Teacher Favorites WinnerEric Hoffer Book Awards, 2024 Grand Prize WinnerNautilus Book Awards, 2024 Gold WinnerThe Book Fest, 2024 Gold Winner for Children’s HistoricalThe Book Fest, 2024 Silver Winner for Best Picture…Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
Rank 6The Puppets of SpelhorstKate DiCamillo, illustrated by Julie MorstadFive puppets trapped in darkness discover their astonishing shared destiny.Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeLexile 570LATOS 4.1View book details
Rank 7It’s Not Bragging If It’s TrueZaila Avant-garde with Marti DumasIncludes 8 pages of never-before-seen photos.After Zaila Avant-garde became the first African American student to win the Scripps National Spelling Bee in 2021, she turned into an overnight sensation.Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
Rank 89 KilometersClaudio Aguilera, illustrated by Gabriela Lyon, Lawrence SchimelA Chilean boy walks nine kilometers through mountains and rain forest each morning to reach school, reflecting on the distance as he travels.Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeATOS 3.1AR interest LG K-3View book detailsRank 9Glitter Everywhere!Chris BartonFans of How It’s Made will love this fresh, irreverent look at the science and story behind glitter.If you love glitter, this book is for you.Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeLexile 950LATOS 6.3View book detailsRank 10Body Music: Poems About the Noises Your Body MakesJane Yolen, Ryan G. Van Cleave, illustrated by Luis San VicenteBodies make MUSIC! “Yolen and Van Cleave give voice to bodily noises―from butts that “BOOM” to giggles and gasps―in a riotously silly poetry collection perfectly tuned to a toilet humor–loving audience.”― Publishers Weekly “Funny, fact-filled, and succinct, this title will have broad appeal beyond the elementary aged audience it is intended for.Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book detailsAn American StoryKwame AlexanderThis lyrically written book tells the story of slavery through the perspective of a teacher and their students. The text is complemented by powerful mixed-media art.Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
The Bellwoods GameCelia Krampien, illustrated by Celia KrampienA game in haunted woods reveals a sinister truth. Can Bailee survive the night?Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeLexile 720LATOS 4.6View book detailsBig TreeBrian Selznick, illustrated by Brian SelznickI thought I heard you calling me."A mysterious voice has been speaking to Louise in her dreams. She and her brother Merwin are Sycamore seeds, who hope to one day set down roots and become big trees.Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book detailsCat Jokes vs. Dog Jokes: A Read-from-Both-Sides Comic BookDavid Lewman, illustrated by John McNameeIn this silly, read-from-both sides, comic-style joke book for kids, one side is dog jokes told by cats, and the other side is cat jokes told by dogs--for more than 200 jokes in all!Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
Escape from Mr. Lemoncello’s Library: The Graphic NovelChris Grabenstein, illustrated by Douglas HolgateWhen Kyle learns that the world's most famous game maker, Luigi Lemoncello, has designed the town's new library and is having an invitation-only lock-in on opening night, he's determined to be there!Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
Finally SeenKelly YangA girl reunites with her family in America, facing unexpected challenges and a quest for belonging.Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeLexile 650LATOS 4.3View book details
Friend of Numbers: The Life of Mathematician Srinivasa RamanujanPriya Narayanan, illustrated by Satwik GadeA memorable, inspiring introduction to a groundbreaking figure in STEM history. Growing up in southern India during British rule, Srinivasa Ramanujan was fascinated by they made patterns only he could see.Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book detailsA Funny Thing Happened After SchoolDavide Cali, illustrated by Benjamin ChaudThe latest book in Davide Cali and Benjamin Chaud's internationally acclaimed I Didn't Do My Homework Because . . . series is out of this world!Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeLexile 550LATOS 2.4View book detailsGiraffe MathStephen Swinburne, illustrated by Geraldo ValerioExplore giraffes through math and science in a fun, interactive journey.Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book detailsGlobalEoin Colfer, Andrew DonkinTwo children battle climate change's impact on their homes and wildlife.Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeLexile HL330LATOS 2.8View book details
Hear Them RoarJune Smalls, illustrated by Becky ThornsA Children's Book Council Hot of the Press Selection All around the world, animals that were once thriving are now endangered, from the black-footed ferret to the kakapo.Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
Hippo or Rhino?Samantha CollisonDo you know which animal is the hippopotamus (hippo) and which is the rhinoceros (rhino)? Yes, they both live in parts of Africa, but rhinos also live in parts of Asia.Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
Holding Her Own: The Exceptional Life of Jackie OrmesTraci N. ToddCoretta Scott King Illustrator Honor Book • Robert F. Sibert Honor BookAn evocative picture book biography about the prolific life of Jackie Ormes, whose groundbreaking cartoons became some of the first empowering depictions of Black women in America!Jackie Ormes made history.Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeLexile 701LATOS 4.5View book details
Kin: Rooted in HopeCarole Boston WeatherfordEvery last one, with a mind of their own and a story that ain’t yet been told. Carole and Jeffery Boston Weatherford’s ancestors are among the founders of Maryland.Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book detailsLuna RancheraRodrigo MorlesinWelcome to the show! ¡Bienvenidos!Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book detailsMajor Taylor: World Cycling ChampionCharles R. Smith JrA Coretta Scott King Award winner and a Pura Belpré Illustrator Honor winner pair up for a rousing picture book biography-in-verse of legendary African American cyclist Marshall “Major” Taylor and the Six-Day Race.One hundred years ago, one of the most popular spectator sports was bicycle racing, and the man to beat was…Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book detailsMonster Support Group: The Mummy’s CurseLaura Suárez, illustrated by Laura SuárezA cursed pharaoh must learn humility to escape her ancient tomb.Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
My Incredible IndiaJasbinder BilamThrough a series of mementos she has collected, a grandmother introduces her granddaughter to their vast, diverse homeland. Mixed-media art reflects the vibrant colors of India.Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
A Natural History of Magical BeastsEmily Hawkins, illustrated by Jessica RouxFeaturing a gold-foil-embossed cloth cover, a ribbon marker and sprayed gold edges, this gorgeous volume is filled with beautiful illustrations and precise notes detailing the secret lives of magical beasts.Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book detailsPoetry PromptsJoseph Coelho, illustrated by Grasya Oliyko, Amanda Quartey, Georgie Birkett, Viola WangDiscover the joy of expressing what’s inside you, with fill-in-the-blank poems that are sparking a creative movement We all have stories inside us—whether or not we consider ourselves “creative.” Poet and novelist Joseph Fasano has developed a remarkable tool that allows anyone to experience the joy of creative expression.Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
Rocket: The Blue-Ribbon PonyEllen F. Feld, illustrated by Nicole LapostaA 2024 Children's Book Council Librarian Favorites Winner! Rocket is a very naughty pony. Sara desperately wants to win a blue ribbon with Rocket, but the two-year-old colt has grown into a very unruly pony who loves to get into trouble.Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
Salma Makes a HomeDanny RamadanSalma fears losing her father again as they adjust to life in a new country. Can they find home together?Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeLexile 680LATOS 4.4View book details
The Secret Life of OceansMoira Butterfield, illustrated by Vivian MinekerThe Secret Life of Oceans is a collection of delightful stories and engaging facts, which imparts a love of Oceans and nature on the next generation, inspiring them to look after the world around them. *2024 CBC Librarian FAVORITES* Did you know that blue whales are the largest creatures on earth ?Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
Stuntboy, In-Between TimeJason Reynolds, illustrated by Raúl the ThirdStuntboy, In-Between Time is a 2023 graphic novel written by Jason Reynolds and illustrated by Raúl the Third.Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
The Swifts: A Dictionary of ScoundrelsBeth LincolnThey are given a name, and a definition. A definition it is assumed they will grow up to match. Meet Shenanigan Swift: Little sister.Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book detailsTacos TodayRaúl the Third, illustrated by Raúl the ThirdYoung luchadores must creatively earn money for their favorite tacos.Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book detailsTen-Word Tiny Tales: To Inspire and UnsettleJoseph Coelho, illustrated by VariousUK Children’s Laureate Joseph Coelho presents twenty tiny tales—each one illustrated by a different artist, and each just ten words long—in a book that’s as much a work of art as an invitation to budding writers. “Invite me in,” she says, outside my tenth-story window.Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book details
To Catch a ThiefMartha BrockenbroughTo Catch a Thief is a 1955 American romantic thriller film directed by Alfred Hitchcock, from a screenplay by John Michael Hayes based on…Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeWord count 44437View book details
Weird But True SharksNational Geographic KidsWhale sharks have tiny teeth covering their eyeballs! And this fin-tastic, photo- and fact-packed book in the best-selling series is the most jaw-some yet!Sink your chompers into these wild facts: Great white sharks can detect a single drop of blood in the water from one-third of a mile away.Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book detailsThe Wild Life of AnimalsMike Barfield, illustrated by Paula BossioFeaturing key habitats, including seas, forests, deserts and grasslands, this book uncovers the little-known but amazing adaptations, bonkers behaviour and cunning natural skills of the world’s most interesting animals.Librarian Favorites — 3rd–5th GradeView book detailsLibrarian Favorites — 6th–8th Grade
40 selections
Rank 1School TripJerry Craft, illustrated by Jerry CraftA school trip to Paris turns chaotic when guides change unexpectedly. Can they navigate new challenges abroad?Librarian Favorites — 6th–8th GradeWord count 17119View book detailsRank 2We Need To Talk About VaginasAllison K. Rodgers, illustrated by Annika Le LargeDo you know the difference between a vagina and a vulva? If you’re not sure, We Need to Talk About Vaginas by TikToker Dr.Librarian Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book detailsRank 3Remember UsJacqueline WoodsonTwelve-year-old Sage experiences a summer of self-discovery as she spends her days playing basketball and watching fires overtake the beloved Bushwick neighborhood where she lives in this novel set in the 1970s.Librarian Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book detailsRank 4Parachute Kids: A Graphic NovelBetty C. TangA young Taiwanese girl navigates her new life in America, dealing with challenges in school, cultural differences, and her complicated relationship with her familyLibrarian Favorites — 6th–8th GradeLexile HL250LATOS 2.5View book detailsRank 5Curlfriends: New In TownSharee MillerTwelve-year-old military kid Charlie Harper is no stranger to being the new kid. Middle school means a fresh start, and she is convinced this is her chance to be cool.Librarian Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book detailsRank 6Just Jerry: How Drawing Shaped My LifeJerry PinkneySince childhood, it was how he made sense of the world—how he coped with the stress of being a sensitive child growing up in crowded spaces, struggling with a learning disability, in a time when the segregation of Black Americans was the norm.Librarian Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book details
Rank 7On Air with Zoe WashingtonJanae MarksZoe helps her father open a restaurant, but can her podcast revive public interest in their story?Librarian Favorites — 6th–8th GradeLexile 701LATOS 4.5View book detailsRank 8The Antiracist Kitchen: 21 Stories (and Recipes)Nadia L. Hohn★“Twenty-one kid-lit authors of color share a wide array of delicious recipes as well as personal experiences related to culture, race, and racism.Librarian Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book detailsRank 9MexikidPedro MartínMexikid: A Graphic Memoir is a 2023 children's graphic novel written and illustrated by Mexican American author and graphic artist Pedro Martín.Librarian Favorites — 6th–8th GradeLexile HL530LATOS 3.5View book details
TastyVictoria Grace ElliottUncover the surprising origins of your favorite foods in this tasty graphic novel.Librarian Favorites — 6th–8th GradeLexile GN790LATOS 5View book detailsAniana del Mar Jumps InJasminne MendezBut she and Papi keep her swim practices and meets hidden from Mami, who has never recovered from losing someone she loves to the water years ago.Librarian Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book details
ArtificeSharon CameronThe "degenerate" art of the Gallery de Smit is confiscated, the artists in hiding or deported, her best friend, Truus, fled to join the shadowy Dutch resistance.Librarian Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book details
Born Reading: 20 Stories of Women Reading Their Way into HistoryKathleen Krull, Virginia Loh-Hagan, illustrated by Aura LewisOnce books kick-start their brains, girls change history. Discover the foundation of reading that empowered some of the world’s most influential women in this informative and inspirational illustrated middle grade collection of twenty biographies.Librarian Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book details
BuzzingSamuel SattinA boy battles his mind and finds solace in unexpected friendships.Librarian Favorites — 6th–8th GradeWord count 12912View book details
Chilling With GhostsInsha Fitzpatrick, illustrated by Lilla BöleczDiscover everything about ghosts in this fun nonfiction handbook packed with spooky tales, engrossing science, and fascinating history—perfect for readers age 8-12!Boo!Librarian Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book details
Cities: How Humans Live TogetherMegan Clendenan, illustrated by Suharu OgawaIf you could design a city that would be both a great place to live and good for the planet, what would it look like?Librarian Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book detailsColin Kaepernick: Change the Game (Graphic Novel Memoir)Colin Kaepernick, Eve L. Ewing, illustrated by Orlando CaicedoColin Change the Game is an inspiring high school graphic novel memoir for readers 12 and up from celebrated athlete and activist Colin Kaepernick.Librarian Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book details
Courage to Dream: Tales of Hope in the Holocaust: A Graphic NovelNeal ShustermanSydney Taylor Honor Award winner National Jewish Book Award finalist Neal Shusterman, Margaret A. Edwards Award Winner National Book Award winner Neal Shusterman and acclaimed illustrator Andrés Vera Martínez present a graphic novel exploring the Holocaust through surreal visions and a textured canvas of heroism and hope.Librarian Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book details
Everlasting Icicles: A Poppenohna Land Adventure (Book 2)Carrie Turley, illustrated by Lara LawFinding the Great Cold Queen was only the beginning.Librarian Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book details
The Flying Horse (Once Upon a Horse #1)Sarah Maslin Nir, illustrated by Laylie FrazierFrom Pulitzer Prize nominee Sarah Maslin Nir, the author of the memoir Horse Crazy , The Flying Horse is the first in a series of fictional middle-grade novels inspired by real horses and the people who love them—illustrated with black-and-white art by Laylie Frazier Trendsetter is a horse destined to fly—in more…Librarian Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book details
Forgive Me NotJennifer BakerHow far would you go to make amends? When Emma returns home after a battle with addiction, she will have to figure that out.When Emma left her home at Foxglove Farm, she’d let down and hurt those who cared for her most.Librarian Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book detailsGarvey’s Choice: The Graphic NovelNikki Grimes, illustrated by Theodore Taylor IIIGarvey’s father has always wanted Garvey to be athletic, but Garvey is interested in astronomy, science fiction, reading—anything but sports. Feeling like a failure, he comforts himself with food.Librarian Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book detailsHandsTorrey MaldonadoA boy must choose between fighting or creating to protect his family.Librarian Favorites — 6th–8th GradeLexile HL430LATOS 3.1View book detailsHow to Handle STRESS for Middle School SuccessSilvi Guerra, illustrated by DeAndra Hodge“Smart and essential!”—Jeff Kinney, Diary of a Wimpy KidMiddle school can be stressful. On the outside, you can look like everything is going great.Librarian Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book detailsHow to Stay InvisibleMaggie C. RuddA boy and his dog must survive alone in the woods, facing nature and trust challenges.Librarian Favorites — 6th–8th GradeLexile 730LATOS 4.7View book detailsKaribaDaniel Clarke, James Clarke, Daniel Snaddon, illustrated by Daniel Clarke2023 ALA Best Graphic Novels for Children The daughter of a river god, raised by a human father and bound to a tragic destiny.Librarian Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book details
Like a HurricaneJonathan Bécotte, Jonathan KaplanskyIt's the mid-1960s, and everyone is fighting back. Black Americans are fighting for civil rights, the counterculture is trying to subvert the Vietnam War, and women are fighting for their liberation.Librarian Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book detailsMascotCharles Waters, Traci SorellA school mascot sparks a heated debate, challenging students to confront identity and tradition.Librarian Favorites — 6th–8th GradeLexile 710LATOS 4.9View book details
Mission Arctic: A Scientific Adventure to a Changing North PoleKatharina Weiss-Tuider, illustrated by Christian SchneiderFor kids 8 to 13, join the largest Arctic expedition ever undertaken—and discover the secrets hidden deep in the ice that reveal how one of the world's crucial ecosystems is changing.Librarian Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book detailsMy SelmaWillie Mae BrownAs the civil rights movement and the fight for voter rights unfold in Selma, Alabama, many things happen inside and outside the Brown family’s home that do not have anything to do with the landmark 1965 march across the Edmund Pettus Bridge.Librarian Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book details
Mystery of the Radcliffe RiddleTaryn SoudersWhen Grady and his dad learn that the town oddball, Eudora "Kooky" Klinch left something for them in her will, they can only imagine what it might be.Librarian Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book detailsThe Night RavenJohan RundbergA Kirkus Best Book of the Year Shortlisted for the Global Literature in Libraries YA Translated Book Prize A USBBY Outstanding International Book Mika is not your average twelve-year-old—and she’s about to prove it.It’s 1880, and in the frigid city of Stockholm, death lurks around every corner.Librarian Favorites — 6th–8th GradeLexile 680LATOS 4.8View book details
The Phone Book: Stay Safe, Be Smart, and Make the World Better with the Powerful Device in Your HandJessica Speer, illustrated by Lesley Imgart2025 Moonbeam Children's Book Awards Silver Medalist2025 Purple Dragonfly Award Winner2024 Librarian Favorites Award WinnerMPIBA's Reading the West Book Awards Young Readers Longlist2023 Foreword INDIES FinalistSo . . . you got a phone!Librarian Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book details
Snow & PoisonMelissa de la CruzKnown as Snow White, Lady Sophie has led a sheltered life in the mountains of Bavaria. Her father, the widowed Duke Maximilian, is at last remarrying, and on the day of his historic wedding, Sophie is making her high-society debut.Librarian Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book detailsThe Spirit GlassRoshani ChokshiA stolen key threatens the balance between worlds. Can Corazon restore it before all hope is lost?Librarian Favorites — 6th–8th GradeLexile 710LATOS 4.5View book detailsSunshine: A Graphic NovelJarrett J. Krosoczka, illustrated by Jarrett J. KrosoczkaHe returns from Bible camp to find that Alex, his secret boyfriend, has had a breakdown and disappeared. He wishes more than anything that he hadn’t left that day.Librarian Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book detailsTagging FreedomRhonda RoumaniKareem Haddad of Damascus, Syria, never dreamed of becoming a graffiti artist. But when a group of boys from another town tag subversive slogans outside their school, and another boy is killed while in custody, Kareem and his friends are inspired to start secretly tagmessages of freedom around their city.Librarian Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book details
Thieves’ GambitKayvion LewisThe enemies-to-lovers heist with an ending everyone's talking about, winner of the Waterstones Children's Book Prize for Older Readers, 2024.Librarian Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book detailsThe Windeby PuzzleLois LowryTwo outcasts defy tradition in a perilous Iron Age world. Can they survive the dangers of their time?Librarian Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book details
You Are Here: Connecting FlightsEllen OhAs their disrupted journeys crisscross and collide, they encounter fellow travelers-some helpful, some hostile-as they discover the challenges of friendship, the power of courage, the importance of the right word at the right time, and the unexpected significance of a blue Stratocaster electric guitar.Librarian Favorites — 6th–8th GradeView book detailsLibrarian Favorites — 9th–12th Grade
40 selections
Rank 1The LegaciesJessica GoodmanAt Excelsior Prep, the Legacy Ball isn’t just a fancy party—it’s a formal welcome to the ultra-exclusive Legacy Club, a vast social network of NYC’s wealthiest.Librarian Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book detailsRank 2The Princess & the Grilled Cheese SandwichDeya MunizA funny, heartfelt YA romance about finding love—and lots of grilled cheese sandwiches—in the place you least expect it, from rising talent Deya Muniz.Librarian Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book detailsRank 3Family StyleThien PhamA Vietnamese boy's journey through food reveals his quest for belonging in America.Librarian Favorites — 9th–12th GradeLexile 401LATOS 2.8View book details
Rank 4Hidden SystemsDan Nott, illustrated by Dan NottWe use water, electricity, and the internet every day--but how do they actually work? And what’s the plan to keep them running for years to come?Librarian Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book detailsRank 5Harvest HouseCynthia Leitich SmithNSK Neustadt Laureate and New York Times best-selling author Cynthia Leitich Smith delivers a thrilling cross-genre follow-up to the acclaimed Hearts Unbroken.Deftly leading readers to the literary crossroads of contemporary realism and haunting mystery, Cynthia Leitich Smith revisits the world of her American Indian Youth Literature Award winner Hearts Unbroken.Librarian Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book detailsRank 6We Deserve MonumentsJas HammondsFamily secrets and a town's dark past challenge a teen's quest for truth.Librarian Favorites — 9th–12th GradeLexile HL730LATOS 5View book detailsRank 7The Dark Ascension Series: The Wicked OnesRobin BenwayBefore they were known as the wicked ones, they were two sisters fighting to escape their mother's iron rule. Drizella and Anastasia only know one thing for certain: they never want to end up like their mother, Lady Tremaine.Librarian Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
Rank 8Fairest of All: A Villains Graphic NovelSerena Valentino, illustrated by Fiona MarchbankDisney’s New York Times best-selling Villains series comes to life in this graphic novel adaptation of the book that started it all in this tragic tale of love and loss, the untold story of Snow White’s Wicked Queen.Librarian Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book detailsRank 9UnravellerFrances HardingeIn a world where anyone can create a life-destroying curse, only one person has the power to unravel them. Kellen does not fully understand his talent but helps those transformed maliciously—including Nettle.Librarian Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book detailsRank 10The Library of Broken WorldsAlaya Dawn JohnsonA girl matches wits with a war god in this kaleidoscopic, epic tale of oppression and the cost of peace, where stories hide within other stories, and narrative has the power to heal… or to burn everything in its path.Librarian Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book detailsAb(solutely) Normal: Short Stories That Smash Mental Health StereotypesNora Shalaway Carpenter, Rocky CallenChanneling their own experiences, sixteen exceptional authors subvert mental health stereotypes in a powerful and uplifting collection of fiction. A teen activist wrestles with protest-related anxiety and PTSD.Librarian Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details¡Ay, Mija!Christine Suggs"An absolutely heartwarming and vibrant story of belonging, family, and the meaning of home. Sixteen-year-old Christine takes their first solo trip to Mexico to spend a few weeks with their grandparents and t�a.Librarian Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book detailsBe That WayHope LarsonSeventeen-year-old Christine keeps a journal of an eventful year in her life in mid-90s, while juggling troubled friendships and looking for love.It’s January 1, 1996, and high school junior Christine wants more than anything to be that cool girl everyone notices, like her gorgeous best friend, Landry.Librarian Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book detailsBeing Ace: An Anthology of Queer, Trans, Femme, and Disabled Stories of Asexual Love and ConnectionMadeline Dyer with contributing authorsPublishers Weekly Announcement: Tamara Grasty at Page Street has bought Being Ace, a YA anthology edited by Madeline Dyer, including short stories and poetry in multiple genres from contemporary to fantasy to science fiction that celebrate and explore the sub-identities of the asexual spectrum from a mixture of established and emerging YA…Librarian Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
Black QueenJumata EmillNova Albright was going to be the first Black homecoming queen at Lovett High—but now she's dead. Fans of One of Us Is Lying and The Other Black Girl will love this unputdownable thriller.Librarian Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book detailsBlackwardLawrence Lindell, illustrated by Lawrence LindellBlack, weird, awkward and proud of it. Welcome to the club!Tired of feeling like you don’t belong? You’d think a spot to chill, chat, and find community would be much easier to come by for nerdy, queer punks.Librarian Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
The BlackwoodsBrandy ColbertThe Blackwoods is a 2023 young adult novel by Brandy Colbert.Librarian Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book detailsBorderlessJennifer De LeonMamá is her biggest supporter, taking on extra jobs to pay for what the scholarship doesn’t cover, and she might be even more excited than Maya about what the fashion show could do for her future career.Librarian Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book detailsBring Me Your MidnightRachel GriffinHer life has been planned out since the moment she was born: she is to marry the governor's son, Landon, and secure an unprecedented alliance between the witches of her island home and the mainlanders who see her very existence as a threat.Tana's coven has appeased those who fear their power for…Librarian Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book detailsChaos TheoryNic StoneA new thriller from the master of suspense - When stuntman Noah Flynn finds a strange medallion with what appear to be ancient cuneiform markings, little does he suspect there will be disastrous consequences for those around him.Librarian Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
Come Home Safe: A NovelBrian BuckmireUntil two siblings are accused of crimes they didn’t commit. Come Home Safe explores the pain, the truths, and the hopes that come with growing up as a person of color in America, as well as why “the talk” and discussions about social justice are so important in the community.Librarian Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
Dear MedusaOlivia A. ColeBut there’s more to her story than the whispers that follow her throughout the hallways at school—whispers that splinter into a million different insults that really mean: a girl who has had sex.Librarian Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
Ever SinceAlena BruzasSeventeen-year-old Virginia makes bad choices. In fact, she's That Kind of Girl, according to the whispers. But as long as she has her tight group of best friends by her side, she's able to ignore the gossipers.Librarian Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
First-Year OrientationLauren Gibaldi, Eric SmithA well-rounded anthology of loosely connected short stories explores the excitement, trepidation, and (sometimes literal) magic of first-year orientation at fictional Rolland College.Librarian Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
Hawkeye: Bishop Takes KingAshley PostonKate Bishop's Hawkeye is still figuring out how to be a Super Hero—and a functioning human being—in this thrilling YA mystery adventure that has her crossing paths with some of the Marvel Universe's greatest heroes—and most dangerous villains.Librarian Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book detailsHidden: A True Story of the HolocaustKati Preston, illustrated by Dilleen MarshA young girl, who's extended family perished in the Holocaust, grows up to share her story of survival and educate those on the consequences of hate and prejudice.Librarian Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book detailsHouse Partyjustin a. reynoldsHow many love stories can play out over the course of a single house party?Librarian Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
How to Find a Missing GirlVictoria WlosokA year ago, beloved cheerleader Stella Blackthorn vanished without a trace. Devastated, her younger sister, Iris, launched her own investigation, but all she managed to do was scare off the police’s only lead and earn a stern warning: Once she turns eighteen, more meddling means prison-level consequences.Librarian Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book detailsHungry GhostVictoria YingA secret struggle with eating disorders forces a life-changing decision.Librarian Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book detailsIn LimboDeb JJ LeeA debut YA graphic memoir about a Korean-American girl's coming-of-age story—and a coming home story—set between a New Jersey suburb and Seoul, South Korea.Ever since Deborah (Jung-Jin) Lee emigrated from South Korea to the United States, she's felt her otherness.For a while, her English wasn’t perfect.Librarian Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
Into the LightMark OshiroIn New York Times-bestselling science fiction epic Out of the Dark, Earth beat back an alien invasion. Now we've got to make sure they don't come back, in Into the Light.The Shongairi conquered Earth.Librarian Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book detailsLast Canto of the DeadDaniel José OlderTwo gods-turned-teenagers wage simultaneous battles in the Caribbean and Brooklyn in this breathless sequel to BALLAD & DAGGER.Healer. Mateo Matisse and Chela Hidalgo are not just two teenagers in lovethey're powerful gods in human form.Librarian Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book detailsThe Last One to FallGabriella LeporeSavana Caruso and Jesse Melo have known each other since they were kids, so when Jesse asks Savana to meet him at Cray’s Warehouse in the middle of the night, she doesn’t hesitate.Librarian Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book detailsMiles Morales Suspended: A Spider-Man NovelJason Reynolds, illustrated by Zeke PeñaMiles Morales is still just your average teenager. He has unexpectedly become totally obsessed with poetry and can never seem to do much more than babble around his crush.Librarian Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book detailsmy culture is not a costumeStirred Stories, illustrated by Suwin Chanmy culture is not a costume is a poetic mixtape, a concept piece that gives voice to complex yearnings and nuanced understandings of our shared humanity.Librarian Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book detailsNorthrangerRey Terciero, illustrated by Bre IndigoIn this swoony and spooky teen summer romance graphic novel set on a Texas ranch, sixteen-year-old Cade Mu�oz finds himself falling for the ranch owner's mysterious and handsome son, only to discover that he may be harboring a dangerous secret.Librarian Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
The Spells We CastJason JuneNigel Barrett has spent his whole life preparing for the Culling, a spell-casting competition that determines which of the world’s teenage magicians will be stripped of their powers to preserve magical balance.Librarian Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details
UnseelieIvelisse HousmanSeelie’s unpredictable magic makes it hard for her to fit in—and draws her and Isolde into the hunt for a fabled treasure.Librarian Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book detailsWe Don’t Swim HereVincent TiradoAnd she will make them pay. A chilling new novel for fans of Tiffany D. Jackson, Lamar Giles, and Ryan Douglass.Bronwyn is only supposed to be in rural Hillwoods for a year.Librarian Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book detailsWolfwoodMarianna BaerGwendolyn McMillan Lawe was born in Emory, Texas, (in the "Wolf Community") the only daughter of A.C. and Modis McMillan. She attended Sand Flat School (in Emory, Texas), St.Librarian Favorites — 9th–12th GradeView book details