And There Was MusicMarta PantaleoTranslated by Debbie Bibo | How does music make you feel? In this vibrantly illustrated book, we see the best of humanity: creativity, community, and our deep, instrinsic drive towards musical expression.Picture BooksView book detailsNYPL Best Books for Kids 2025
The 2025 edition contains 100 selections published by the New York Public Library. The source uses 6 audience or subject sections, including Picture Books, Young Readers, Middle Grade, and Nonfiction. It belongs to New York Public Library's annual staff-selected Best Books for Kids program. Staff arrange the recommendations across changing discovery categories such as fiction, nonfiction, picture books, poetry, and comics.
Best Books for Kids 2025See the original list
Selections100
Published byNew York Public Library
Sections6 sections
Browse sections6 sections
Picture Books
25 selections
And There Was MusicMarta PantaleoTranslated by Debbie Bibo | How does music make you feel? In this vibrantly illustrated book, we see the best of humanity: creativity, community, and our deep, instrinsic drive towards musical expression.Picture BooksView book details
Another Word for NeighborAngela Pham Krans, illustrated by Thai My PhuongIllustrated by Thai My Phuong | Grumpy old Han isn't happy when a family with young children moves in next door. Their curiosity and compassion chip away at his tough exterior and reveal a sensitive heart, forcing him to reflect on the importance of community and the care we can provide for others.Picture BooksView book details
BeansproutSarah Lynne ReulEvery day, a new seed sprouts in one class's science project. Despite his patient care and attention, one little boy's experiment is not progressing as hypothesized. Will he give in to disappointment or hold out hope for new growth?Picture BooksLexile Text Measure AD590LATOS Book Level 3.8View book details
Before I Lived HereStacy S. JensenIllustrated by Victo Ngai | Have you ever wondered what (and who) came before you? A young boy imagines the history of the land he lives on, spanning decades, centuries, and even millennia.Picture BooksWord Count 215View book details
BrokenX. Fang, illustrated by X. FangTo tell or not to tell? Guilt gnaws at a little girl after she breaks her grandmother's favorite mug and lies about the circumstances. Bold, colored graphite illustrations breathe new life into this relatable ethical dilemma.Picture BooksLexile Text Measure AD460LATOS Book Level 2.0View book details
Cat NapBrian Lies, illustrated by Brian LiesA curious kitten chases a mouse into a Metropolitan Museum of Art poster, unwittingly embarking on a fantastical voyage through art history. With works recreated from the Met’s collections, the author crafts a classic tale of cat and mouse where each page delights the eyes.Picture BooksWord Count 424View book details
Dancing with WaterGwendolyn WallaceIllustrated by Tonya Engel | A child and their grandfather tap into ancestral knowledge to provide a reliable water source for their community. Pollution exacerbates scarcity, generating an urgency to pass down the intuition for water divining to the next generation.Picture BooksView book details
Every Monday MabelJashar Awan, illustrated by Jashar AwanIs it Monday yet? Some might think Mabel’s Monday morning routine is mundane, but they just wouldn’t get it. Experience the simple joys of childhood in this buoyant story about finding the magic of little moments.Picture BooksATOS Book Level 1.9AR Interest Level LG K-3View book details
EverybellyThao LamEverybody has a story... and a belly. Maddie's day at the community pool, rendered in textured collage, celebrates her neighbors and their unique bodies.Picture BooksView book details
Faith Takes the TrainKesi Augustine, illustrated by MokshiniIllustrated by Mokshini | In this quintessential New York story, Faith's subway journey empowers her to practice social awareness and kindness. Immersive illustrations evoke the sensory symphony of the subway.Picture BooksView book details
Filo's ButterfliesLitea FuataIllustrated by Myo Yim | It's time for Filo's dance at his cousin's wedding and the butterflies in his tummy are flying absolutely out of control! Can Filo learn to harness his butterflies for good, or will he be carried off with them?Picture BooksView book details
FireworksMatthew Burgess, illustrated by Cátia ChienIllustrated by Cátia Chien | POP! Break through the haze of a hot summer night with these illuminating illustrations and grab a front row seat to a spectacular fireworks display! With dynamic text and a special foldout spread, this picture book is a love song to a New York City summer.Picture BooksATOS Book Level 3.5AR Interest Level LG K-3View book details
Hilwa's GiftsSafa Suleiman, illustrated by Anait SemirdzhyanIllustrated by Anait Semirdzhyan | A Palestinian family reunites to harvest the gifts that Hilwa provides. This precious olive tree feeds every generation, roots Ali in his heritage, and fosters the joy of sharing with others.Picture BooksView book details
The InterpreterOlivia Abtahi, illustrated by Monica ArnaldoIllustrated by Monica Arnaldo | Cecilia has a very important job: translating between Spanish and English for her parents. While she uses her voice to speak for her family, she shies away from expressing what she wants and needs. Will she be able to find balance between being an interpreter and being a kid?Picture BooksLexile Text Measure 530LATOS Book Level 2.4View book details
Nearly Exactly Almost Like MeJennifer BradburyIllustrated by Pearl AuYeung | In the face of questions about their bond, a protective older brother lists all the things he has in common with his little brother. He knows that family is about love, not appearances.Picture BooksView book details
NightsongSally Soweol Han, illustrated by Sally Soweol HanIn this auditory odyssey, a young boy seeks refuge in the nature sounds of a rural roadside when he and his mother find themselves stranded after a day in the big city.Picture BooksView book details
Nunu and the SeaIsabella KungNunu channels her big feelings into a mystical sea meditation, where the lulls and swells ground her in serenity.Picture BooksView book details
Old Blue Is My HomeLita JudgeOld Blue reliably shelters a girl and her family as they move from place to place. Cozy watercolors evoke a sense of security, resilience, and home in this ode to the family van.Picture BooksView book details
A Place for UsJames E. Ransome, illustrated by James E. RansomeSpend an evening with a boy and his mother in this heartfelt story detailing the hidden hardships faced by some New Yorkers. This wordless picture book illustrates that home is not a physical place but a sense of love and togetherness.Picture BooksView book details
Shark GirlKate Beaton, illustrated by Kate BeatonEnsnared in a fishing net, Shark Girl's sense of justice for fish and people alike leads her to hatch a clever escape plan. With playful illustrations that tell as much of the story as the words, Shark Girl is a layered, mischievous tale sure to make readers laugh.Picture BooksATOS Book Level 3.7AR Interest Level Lower Grades (LG K-3)View book details
Sleep Here, Wake ThereCaio ZeroWhen a little boy wakes up in a different bed than the one he fell asleep in, he sets out to solve the mystery! This book is a lovely celebration of family and the joy that children share with a variety of caregivers.Picture BooksView book details
We Go SlowMariahadessa Ekere Tallie, illustrated by Aaron BeckerIllustrated by Aaron Becker | After the morning rush, a young girl and her grandfather are the only ones left in the house. They take their day slow and savor all the sights and delights of their New York City neighborhood. Luscious watercolor illustrations capture the fading light of day's end.Picture BooksView book details
We Leap TogetherChristopher Silas Neal, illustrated by Christopher Silas NealA mother and child travel through New York City while a whale and her calf swim offshore. They may not look alike, but they have much in common. A lovely read-aloud with simple text, this side-by-side narrative of two species will warm your heart.Picture BooksLexile Text Measure AD370LATOS Book Level 2.6View book details
What if We...Vivienne ChangIllustrated by Eugenia Yoh | It's summer break, and siblings Max and Mimi lounge around the house trying to figure out what to do. After going to the park, the zoo, and the pool, their imagination takes over. In the end, they might just discover that spending time together is the most fun activity of all.Picture BooksView book details
Worm Makes a SandwichBrianne FarleyHungry? Worm wants to make you a sandwich! From table scraps to compost and seedlings to harvest, follow the process of tending a garden to find out how you can grow your own food. Vibrant illustrations and a silly worm narrator bring joy to this lighthearted story.Picture BooksView book detailsYoung Readers
10 selections
Amina Banana and the Formula for FriendshipShifa Saltagi Safadi, illustrated by Aaliya JaleelIllustrated by Aaliya Jaleel | Amina is eager to make friends after moving to Indiana from Syria. She's sure her formula will lead to success, but it turns out friendships are not as simple as following a recipe.Young ReadersView book details
Brianna Banana, Helper of the DayLana ButtonIllustrated by Suharu Ogawa | Brianna's dream is to be her classroom's helper of the day. With the assistance of a new girl at school, she might just be able to channel her boundless energy and achieve her goal.Young ReadersView book details
Freedom Celebration: A Juneteenth PartyAngela DaltonIllustrated by Keisha Morris | You're invited to the Morris Family Juneteenth Cookout! Join Gloria and her family as they celebrate freedom and the rich history behind this important holiday.Young ReadersView book details
I DanceDiana RañolaIllustrated by Christine Almeda | This joyful story explores the lively world of Philippine folk dance with easy-to-read text and inviting illustrations.Young ReadersView book details
Ratnip: Lost and Found in the CityCam HigginsIllustrated by Allison Steinfeld | He’s not just any rat. He’s a rat on a mission! Discover Ratnip’s world in New York City as he makes friends and foes—and eats lots of delicious food!Young ReadersView book details
Squid in PantsKaz WindnessThese stylish sea creatures speak in simple, silly rhymes and strike fashion gold when they stumble upon the wardrobe of a kid in a boat.Young ReadersView book details
The Summer of the Bone HorsesVirginia Driving Hawk SneveIllustrated by Steph Littlebird | Eddie is sent to stay with his grandparents on the Rosebud Reservation. He overcomes his homesickness and strengthens his bond both with them and with his Indigenous heritage. A warm story of connection brought to life in full color illustrations.Young ReadersLexile Text Measure 630LATOS Book Level 4.3View book details
The Truth About the Tooth FairyLeah CypessIllustrated by Sarah Lynne Reul | Miriam is the youngest in her Orthodox Jewish family, but she’s done being treated like a baby. Losing a tooth provides the perfect opportunity: Only babies believe in the tooth fairy, so she’ll use her sleuthing skills to prove the tooth fairy isn't real—or is she?Young ReadersLexile Text Measure 491LATOS Book Level 3.3View book details
The Unlikely Aventuras of Ramón and El CucuyDonna Barba HigueraIllustrated by Juliana Perdomo | Cucuy is the littlest boogeyman assigned to frighten misbehaving children, but Ramón isn't even scared of him—he's too busy worrying about his first day of school! This unlikely duo will have to learn to help each other in this silly illustrated chapter book.Young ReadersLexile Text Measure 669LATOS Book Level 4.3View book details
We Dig FossilsAlliah L. AgostiniIllustrated by Joelle Murray | Everyone in Ava's family has found a fossil except for her! Our tenacious paleontologist keeps digging in this STEM-focused early reader.Young ReadersLexile Text Measure 250LATOS Book Level 2View book detailsMiddle Grade
25 selections
All the Blues in the SkyRenée WatsonSage's thirteenth birthday is memorable for all the wrong reasons—it's the day her best friend dies. Her path to self-forgiveness and acceptance is told sensitively in this Harlem-based novel in verse.Middle GradeLexile Text Measure NPATOS Book Level 5.0View book details
Benny on the CaseWesley KingSome people in Benny's small town don't understand difference—whether it's his Mosaic Down Syndrome or new student Salma's Tunisian heritage. Together, Benny and Salma must uncover a plot threatening their home and community.Middle GradeATOS Book Level 4.6AR Interest Level Middle Grades (MG 4-8)View book details
Billions to BurnTaylor BanksWhen Amadeus Jones goes missing, his grandson Zeus will need to reunite with his former best friends to rescue him. Using a Langston Hughes poem as their guide, the four kids are sent on a cross-country treasure hunt, potentially uncovering a dangerous secret along the way.Middle GradeView book details
Dad Rock Dragon QuestJoan ReardonWhen Zadie, her sister, and her mom's worrywart boyfriend go to stay with her daredevil park ranger dad, they don't expect to get swept up in a battle with poachers. Join them on the roadtrip of a lifetime to save her dad's best friend—a dragon!Middle GradeView book details
El NiñoPam Muñoz RyanKai's sister Cali disappeared while surfing two years ago, and since then swimming isn't what it used to be. The magic of El Niño brings haunting dreams of a mythical Amazonian queen and give Kai hope that all is not lost.Middle GradeLexile Text Measure 740LATOS Book Level 5.3View book details
The Freedom SeekerRuchira GuptaSimi and her mother's harrowing escape from Hindu Nationalist violence separates them in different detention centers on the Mexican-American border. Can Simi find a way to save herself and her new friends from the detention center and to reunite with her mother?Middle GradeLexile Text Measure 769LATOS Book Level 4.9View book details
The GrimmelingsRachael KingWhat do a missing classmate, a mysterious black stallion, a charming new stranger, and the disappearance of Ella's father have in common? Discover the dark magic and family curse behind it all in this eerie folk horror tale.Middle GradeView book details
The Ink WitchSteph CherrywellBecca has to save her mother and stop her plotting aunt from taking over the family coven. With the help of a talking tarantula and an ice troll, Becca uncovers a whole magical world beyond the boring motel where she lives—and maybe some newfound powers of her own.Middle GradeLexile Text Measure 750LATOS Book Level 4.8View book details
Junius Leak and the Spiraling Vortex of DoomAllan WolfWhen young waterbody aficionado Junius Leak is sent to stay in his eccentric uncle's houseboat, he has no idea what's in store. This visit to the bayou comes with pirate treasure, family secrets, a feisty gray cat, and a boating trip like no other!Middle GradeView book details
KickturnBrie SpanglerFor Lindy, the shine of living on a bus and traveling around national parks with her influencer parents has worn off. When the bus breaks down, she finds new friends who share her love of skateboarding. But when it's time to get back on the road, will her friendships survive?Middle GradeLexile Text Measure 670LATOS Book Level 4.3View book details
The Last Ember: The Aerimander Chronicles, Book 1Lily Berlin DoddAspiring chemist Eva unwittingly comes into possession of a rare treasure. Orphan Dusty is given a mysterious assignment. When their paths cross, both accidentally become embroiled in a power struggle between the secretive Thieves' Union and an unsavory government official.Middle GradeView book details
The Last ResortErin Entrada KellyLila's a bit overdramatic, and when a near-death experience on a trip to her deceased Grandpa Clem's inn leaves her seeing ghosts, she's sure no one will believe her. When her grandpa's ghost says he was murdered, it's up to her and her newfound skills to find the killer.Middle GradeATOS Book Level 4.3AR Interest Level Middle Grades (MG 4-8)View book details
The Midwatch Institute for Wayward GirlsJudith Rossell, illustrated by Judith RossellWhen Maggie is left at an orphanage, she isn’t expecting adventure. But that’s exactly what she finds at the Institute, where she’s trained to escape alligators, pick locks, and use morse code in order to fight crime in this illustrated escapade.Middle GradeView book details
The Nine Moons of Han Yu and LuliKarina Yan GlaserHan Yu, in 731 AD China, and Luli, in 1931 New York City, set out on parallel missions to save their families in this story full of Chinese food and culture.Middle GradeATOS Book Level 6.0AR Interest Level Middle Grades (MG 4-8)View book details
Ollie in BetweenJess CallansGrowing up is hard enough, but for Ollie it means navigating shifting friendships, family expectations, and the complexities of gender—all without their mom. Can Ollie learn to find their own voice and identity through it all?Middle GradeView book details
Please Pay AttentionJamie SumnerSixth grader Bea knows there are always extra obstacles as a wheelchair user. Left to fend for herself during a school shooting, she must find a way to channel her rage and her grief in the aftermath. This timely story is told in compelling verse.Middle GradeView book details
The Queen Bees of Tybee CountyKyle Casey ChuDerrick loves playing on his basketball team with his best friend JJ. He also secretly loves lip-synching in the mirror and putting blue nail polish on his toes. Could a summer visiting his eccentric grandma help him finally express his true self to the world?Middle GradeLexile Text Measure 650LATOS Book Level 4.2View book details
Return to SenderVera Brosgol, illustrated by Vera BrosgolWhen Oliver and his mom move into a Manhattan apartment, they inherit a taxidermized cat named Raymond, a sinister neighbor, and… a magical, wish-granting mail slot? Consequences and hilarity ensue in this illustrated adventure.Middle GradeView book details
Scarlet MorningND Stevenson, illustrated by ND StevensonWhen orphans Viola and Wilmur cut a deal with a mysterious ship's captain, it leads to a swashbuckling adventure through haunted lands beyond their desolate island. Their dystopian world is brought to life through atmospheric illustrations.Middle GradeLexile Text Measure 931LATOS Book Level 6.1View book details
A Sea of Lemon Trees: The Corrido of Roberto AlvarezMaría Dolores ÁguilaIn 1931, Roberto Alvarez courageously testifies in court to stop the segregation of students of Mexican descent and white students in his San Diego school. This verse novel adapts the true story of the Lemon Grove Incident with passion and heart.Middle GradeLexile Text Measure 800LATOS Book Level 5.1View book details
The Secret of HoneycakeKimberly Newton FuscoAfter her mother's death, Hurricane takes solace in her home by the sea, her dog Brody-Bear, and her beloved sister Bronte. But when Bronte falls ill, Hurricane must leave them all behind to live with her fussy Aunt Claire. It feels like the end, but could it be a new beginning?Middle GradeLexile Text Measure 830LATOS Book Level 5.3View book details
A Skeleton in the ClosetClaire Hatcher-SmithMizzy is tired of being underestimated because of her Down syndrome, so when the chance to solve a decades old family mystery presents itself, she's ready to take it on. Twists abound in this funny and compelling murder mystery!Middle GradeView book details
Smoke & MirrorsRosalyn RansawAndy is stuck fixing an old house as punishment for a crime he didn't commit. What Andy doesn't know is that he's about to uncover new clues to a decades-old cold case involving magic, murder, and mistaken identity.Middle GradeView book details
Unboxing LibbySteph CherrywellSelf-aware AI-teen robots on Mars! An evil corporation! A Halloween party with real zombies?! What could possibly go wrong? Unbox this dystopian and hilarious tale of self-discovery and empowerment.Middle GradeView book details
The Undead Fox of Deadwood ForestAubrey HartmanClare the Fox's solitary existence ushering souls to the Afterlife is upturned by the arrival of a strange visitor. Stuck with this new houseguest, he embarks on a poignant-yet-humorous journey in this fable of self-discovery and connection.Middle GradeATOS Book Level 5.3AR Interest Level MG 4–8View book detailsNonfiction
20 selections
Ablaze: The Story of America's First Female SmokejumperJessica Lawson, illustrated by Sarah GonzalesIllustrated by Sarah Gonzales | Jump into the fire with America’s first female smokejumper, Deanne Shulman! Her work, in a role historically closed off to women, will inspire children to stand up for our forests.NonfictionLexile Text Measure AD620LView book details
Akeem Keeps Bees!Kamal Eugene William Bell, Akeem Bell, illustrated by Darnell Johnson(Full title: Akeem Keeps Bees!: A Close-Up Look at the Honey Makers and Pollinators of Sankofa Farms) Illustrated by Darnell Johnson | Bzzz! Follow Akeem and his family through the year-round work of beekeeping! Told in a combination of comics and diagrams, you will learn about the real life work Sankofa Farms does to help their community and local bee populations thrive.NonfictionView book details
Are You a Friend of Dorothy?Kyle Lukoff, illustrated by Levi Hastings(Full title: Are You a Friend of Dorothy?: The True Story of an Imaginary Woman and the Real People She Helped) Illustrated by Levi Hastings | Who is Dorothy? Find out in this playful picture book which introduces young readers to a powerful piece of queer history and encourages them to become their best, most authentic selves.NonfictionLexile Text Measure 669LATOS Book Level 4.3View book details
The Black Mambas: The World's First All-Woman Anti-Poaching UnitKelly CrullTravel to South Africa, where the Black Mambas keep wildlife safe from poachers and educate their community. This detailed look at the team's work features full color photos, maps, diagrams, and direct quotes from the Black Mambas themselves.NonfictionLexile Text Measure 720LATOS Book Level 4.6View book details
Firefly SongColleen Paeff, illustrated by Ji-Hyuk Kim(Full title: Firefly Song: Lynn Frierson Faust and the Great Smoky Mountain Discovery) Illustrated by Ji-Hyuk Kim | Lynn knows there are special fireflies deep in the Great Smoky Mountains. She witnessed their dazzling shows with her own eyes. But when scientists tell her what she’s seen can’t be true, she gets to work to prove them wrong.NonfictionView book details
The Five Sides of Marjorie Rice: How to Discover a ShapeAmy Alznauer, illustrated by Anna BronIllustrated by Anna Bron | Amateur mathematician Marjorie Rice's journey to solve an ancient puzzle invokes the beauty and wonder of math. This lushly illustrated picture book biography will have you thinking about shapes—and the natural world—in a whole new light.NonfictionView book details
How the Word Is Passed (Adapted for Young Readers)Clint Smith, adapted by Sonja Cherry-Paul(Full title: How the Word is Passed: Remembering Slavery and How It Shaped America) When you know where to look, our land holds innumerable painful stories of slavery. This young reader adaptation of Smith's pivotal original work takes an incisive look at the ongoing legacy of slavery in the United States—not just in the South, but here in New York City too.NonfictionView book details
Kahoʻolawe: The True Story of an Island and Her PeopleKamalani HurleyIllustrated by Harinani Orme | Though Kaho'olawe has been exploited and marred by many, those who call the Hawaiian archipelago home have never given up their quest to heal her. Intricate gouache artwork and comprehensive back matter accompany this tale of resilience and strength.NonfictionView book details
Make a Pretty Sound: A Story of Ella JenkinsTraci N. ToddIllustrated by Eleanor Davis | Pretty sounds abound in this rhythmic picture book biography that follows children's music pioneer Ella Jenkins and her legacy, featuring whimsical, bold illustrations.NonfictionView book details
Mariam's DreamLeila Boukarim, illustrated by Sona Avedikian(Full title: Mariam's Dream: The Story of Mariam Al-Shaar and Her Food Truck of Hope) Illustrated by Sona Avedikian | Mariam Al-Shaar, a Palestinian refugee born and raised in Lebanon, brings hope and a taste of home to her community in the face of tremendous odds.NonfictionView book details
Miss Betti, What Is This?Lela Nargi(Full title: Miss Betti, What Is This?: How Detroit's School Lunch Lady Got Good Food on the Menu) Illustrated by Kristen Uroda | This isn't your average school lunch! Miss Betti takes it upon herself to partner with local farmers to bring fresh fruits and vegetables into the cafeteria in this inspiring tale of urban food equity.NonfictionView book details
My Name Is Jem: A Tale of a Guide Dog SuperstarOlivia MuscatIllustrated by Allison Colpoys | Jem, an adorable Labrador, is hard at work! This brightly illustrated and approachable primer on service dog etiquette takes readers on a walk around the city with Jem and her handler.NonfictionView book details
Never Silent: A Hiroshima Survivor's StorySetsuko Thurlow, Kathy LowingerIllustrated by Michelle Theodore | As a girl, Setsuko lives through the bombing of Hiroshima. In this informative memoir, she speaks out against nuclear warfare, helping young readers understand the past and imagine a more peaceful future.NonfictionView book details
Pine Cone Regrown: How One Species Thrives After FireElisa BoxerIllustrated by Kevin & Kristen Howdeshell | In the wake of a devastating fire, a pine cone sprouts and the forest is reborn. This picture book showcases how nature adapts in ingenious ways to deal with extreme circumstances.NonfictionView book details
Safe CrossingKari Percival, illustrated by Kari PercivalRaincoats on! It's time for spring showers and animal migrations. Help frogs, salamanders, and other amphibious friends safely cross roads to reach their summer habitats. This tender tale shows how even small actions can make a big difference in protecting wildlife.NonfictionLexile Text Measure 620LView book details
Turtles Heading Home!Liza Ketchum, Jacqueline Briggs Martin, Phyllis RootWarming waters are a threat to the Kemp's ridley sea turtle. But professionals and volunteers, including kids, all work together to help this endangered species! Large color photos and accessible text help readers follow the turtles on their journey.NonfictionView book details
Valiant Vel: Vel Phillips and the Fight for Fairness and EqualityJerrianne HayslettIllustrated by Aaron Boyd | Follow trailblazing activist and lawyer Vel Phillips as she breaks barriers and advocates for fair housing and civil rights in Milwaukee! This overdue biography is comprehensively researched and features both photographs and colorful illustrations.NonfictionView book details
Whale Eyes: A Memoir About Seeing and Being SeenJames Robinson, illustrated by Brian ReaIllustrated by Brian Rea | Renowned filmmaker James Robinson invites readers to see through his eyes in this interactive illustrated memoir about growing up and living with strabismus.NonfictionLexile Text Measure 880LFountas & Pinnell Text Level YView book details
The World Entire: A True Story of an Extraordinary WWII RescueElizabeth Brown, illustrated by Melissa CastrillónIllustrated by Melissa Castrillón | In this poignantly illustrated World War II story, thousands of refugees flee to the borders of Portugal. When diplomat Aristides de Sousa Mendes is told to deny their entry, he’s faced with a choice: follow orders or follow his conscience?NonfictionView book details
XoloDonna Barba Higuera, illustrated by Mariana Ruiz JohnsonIllustrated by Mariana Ruiz Johnson | How did dogs become man's best friend? Chase bones with Xolo in this Mexican folklore tale of cowardice, the underworld, and finding your purpose.NonfictionATOS Book Level 3.9AR Interest Level Middle Grades (MG 4-8)View book detailsGraphic Novels
15 selections
Cabin Head and Tree HeadScott Campbell, illustrated by Scott CampbellJoin Cabin Head and Tree Head (and Bus Stop Head, Beanstalk Head, and Pool Head) in six totally silly graphic novel vignettes that will delight readers of all ages. Goofy watercolors draw you into their delightful world and will have you laughing out loud.Graphic NovelsView book details
Carousel SummerKathleen GrosLucy's bleak summer starts to look up when an artist and her daughter come into town. When she's invited to help restore the old carousel, new relationships blossom and Lucy dares to speak her truth for the first time.Graphic NovelsView book details
Creaky AcresCalista Brill, Nilah Magruder, illustrated by Nilah MagruderAfter a big move, competitive equestrian Nora is forced to join a new stable that does not meet her high standards. Will Nora be able to overcome the challenges of her ragtag team to win in the next regional show?Graphic NovelsView book details
Deeply DaveMichael GroverWhen his astronaut mom’s spacecraft crashes, Dave goes deep—very deep—into an ocean trench inhabited by a quirky shrimp and his pet shark, an ominous octopus, and the Big Doom.Graphic NovelsView book details
Free Piano (Not Haunted)Whitney GardnerMargot’s mom is never home and now her fame-obsessed dad is moving to Los Angeles. Worst of all, she only has 12 followers on social media. At least she’s now the brand new owner of a used keyboard that is definitely not haunted!Graphic NovelsView book details
Halfway to SomewhereJose PimientaAve's mom takes them from Mexico to Kansas—without their dad and beloved older sister. Bored, angry, and lonely in an unfamiliar place, Ave ventures out on their own and tries to find balance between their two worlds.Graphic NovelsLexile Text Measure GN330LATOS Book Level 2.8View book details
Higher GroundTull SuwannakitWhen a storm floods their city, a grandmother and her two grandchildren take shelter on the rooftop of their apartment building. Collage-like illustrations tell a story of survival and rebuilding after natural disaster strikes.Graphic NovelsView book details
MasksMargaret Rae, Brian NathansonIllustrated by Beck Kubrick and Thomas Philipson | Living in fear of monster-hunting vigilantes, Poe, Rice, and Shelley must stay in the shadows. But one Halloween night, the opportunity to come out of hiding arises—and this unusual found family seizes the moment.Graphic NovelsView book details
Millie of the ManorKarina EvansIllustrated by Andrea Bell | Amy's anxiety means making friends is tough, but when she gets invited to a murder mystery party, she discovers the power of acting. As intrepid scientist Millie Morgan, she finally begins to find her voice.Graphic NovelsView book details
Nightmare Hunter (Maxwell Dark, Book 1)Brady SmithEver been kept awake by horrible nightmares? Call Maxwell Dark, who specializes in beating those monstrous dreams back!Graphic NovelsView book details
On Guard!Cassidy WassermanAmid her parents' divorce, Grace finds respite on the school fencing club, where she's thrust into a new world of friendship and competition. But when her relationship with her mom suffers another blow, she's forced to decide: Is she ready to stand up for herself?Graphic NovelsView book details
Say Something, Poupeh Babaee!Haleh MasseyIllustrated by Ghazal Qadri | A young Iranian girl, separated from her parents by a national travel ban, struggles to find her voice. Through therapy, friendship, and courage, Poupeh begins to reclaim her voice—not just for herself, but for her family’s future.Graphic NovelsView book details
Schoolbot 9000Sam HepburnWhat would you do if robots took over? Everyone else in town seems excited about the introduction of AI helpers, but it's up to James to uncover the shady business behind the changes at his school.Graphic NovelsLexile Text Measure 550LATOS Book Level 3.6View book details
Speak Up, Santiago!Julio Anta, illustrated by Gabi MendezIllustrated by Gabi Mendez | Santiago is excited to visit his grandma, but he worries his so-so Spanish skills will ruin his trip. Will he be able to overcome his insecurities to connect with his grandmother and his new soccer team?Graphic NovelsLexile Text Measure GN390LFountas & Pinnell Text Level WView book details
Sword of the Champion (Dragonforged, Book 1)Eric LideForetold to save the world from the evil Fiendlord and his wicked fiends, a champion has been chosen! Orin, a regular kid from the small village of Millstone, is thrust headlong into an epic quest to vanquish the dark forces oppressing his world.Graphic NovelsView book detailsPoetry
5 selections
For a Girl BecomingJoy HarjoIllustrated by Adriana Garcia | In this beautifully illustrated adaptation of Joy Harjo's heartfelt poem, a baby girl receives wisdom, love, and guidance on her journey through life.PoetryView book details
How Sweet the SoundKwame Alexander, illustrated by Charly PalmerIllustrated by Charly Palmer | With encyclopedic breadth, this poem showcases the evolution of American music, from ragtime to bebop to R&B. It celebrates the tones, melodies, genres, and arrangements foundational to the music we enjoy, which were created and continue to be innovated by Black musicians.PoetryView book details
I Want You to KnowMona DamlujiIllustrated by Ishtar Bäcklund Dakhil | This gentle poem, written by a mother for her children, is a beautiful love letter to refugees of all ages and places. Its vivid illustrations are inspired by traditional Middle Eastern art.PoetryView book details
Of the Sun: A Poem for the Land's First PeoplesXelena González, illustrated by Emily KewageshigIllustrated by Emily Kewageshig | This boldly illustrated poem affirms the Indigenous identities of young readers across the Americas, describing a home, heritage, and land beyond borders.PoetryView book details
Seven Skies All at OnceTed KooserIllustrated by Matt Myers | As a storm brews over the city, two kids share notes and a growing friendship across a shared clothesline.PoetryView book details