Does your collection include this year’s critically acclaimed books? See what Booklist, School Library Journal, Kirkus, Horn Book, Publishers Weekly, and more, say about the top reviewed books of 2024 for kids and teens!
Click the tabs below to view more books in each age category.
The Yellow Bus by Loren Long
On Sale June 25, 2024!
Perfect for fans of Love and Hello, Lighthouse, The Yellow Bus from #1 New York Times bestselling Loren Long is a tender and hopeful new classic about a forgotten school bus that finds happiness and purpose in the most unexpected places—and in the journey along the way.
★ THREE STARRED REVIEWS! ★
★ “A must-purchase, this book will leave readers looking at objects around them differently long after its covers are closed.” —School Library Journal, starred review
★ “A moving contemplation on the passage of time, The Yellow Bus skillfully drives home the joys of a well-lived life of purpose.” — Booklist, starred review
★ “All kids will benefit from the added introspection of the seemingly mundane in the world around them.” — BCCB, starred review
Time to Make Art by Jeff Mack
On Sale Now!
Does art have to be perfect? Where do you begin? This inspiring picture book about making art doubles as an introduction to the multifaceted and diverse global history of art empowering readers to get creative.
★ THREE STARRED REVIEWS! ★
★ “An inspiring and empowering manifesto for young creators.” —Kirkus Reviews, starred review
★ “There are many misconceptions about what art is and what it should do. An inquisitive brown-skinned girl wants to know more about art and asks a series of simple yet profound questions about it. Each question is answered by a different artist, ranging from ancient to modern, famous to regionally known. Unlike many art surveys, this book presents a truly global perspective, putting Indigenous and non-Western art side-by-side with well-known Western artists as well as conceptual and avant-garde work… A thoughtful look at art that will likely motivate budding artists to trust their creative intuition.“—Horn Book, starred review
★ “There’s not a frown to be found in this celebration of art and artists; it’s delightful!” – School Library Journal, starred review
Bye Land, Bye Sea by René Spencer and Rodolfo Montalvo; illustrated by Rodolfo Montalvo
On Sale April 30, 2024!
Two children from different backgrounds show that friendship has no language in this epic bilingual story about being lost and finding a friend who understands.
★ THREE STARRED REVIEWS! ★
★ “A radiant tale of adventure and friendship.” —Kirkus Reviews, starred review
★ “Text and artwork together create a sense of an adventurous dream, making this a perfect fit for a bedtime story or lapsit.” —BCCB, starred review
★ “Simple, meaningful text alternates between Spanish and English, exposing readers to both languages, without translations.” — Horn Book Magazine, starred review
Freedom on the Sea by Michael Boulware Moore; illustrated by Bryan Collier
On Sale Now!
This is the thrilling story of Robert Smalls and the Confederate ship that he used to liberate himself, his family, and over a dozen others from enslavement.
★ THREE STARRED REVIEWS! ★
★ “Collier’s exceptional illustrations achieve a moving three-dimensionality, with an appearance of collaged mixed-media methods that combine meticulous colored pencil drawings, expressive oil paints, and layered cut paper within a high-contrast color palette of bright blues and warm orangey browns.” —BCCB, starred review
★ “This picture-book retelling of his courageous escape from slavery is particularly good for a young audience. The story is presented with a sense of drama while filling in background information for kids. Blue hues subtly enhance the shades of brown in Collier’s illustrations. Using deep, contrasting colors and subtle textures, the striking paintings are particularly effective in the dimly lit scenes indoors and on the water at night. A handsome, historical picture book.” —Booklist, starred review
★ “In an author’s note, Moore explains that Smalls later served in Congress; Moore is now seeking the same seat his ancestor held. He deftly retells this historical story, heightening the suspense and emphasizing Smalls’ tenacity, while Collier’s rich collage illustrations set the scene. Images of silhouetted faces in the sky make clear that the next generations of Black children are watching and waiting; freedom will make their existence possible. A moving tale of triumph that brings the past to life.” —Kirkus Reviews, starred review
Coretta: The Autobiography of Mrs. Coretta Scott King by Coretta Scott King; illustrated by Ekua Holmes
On Sale Now!
Adapted from her adult memoir, this is the autobiography of Coretta Scott King––wife of Martin Luther King, Jr., founder of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change (the King Center), and twentieth-century American civil and human rights activist.
★ TWO STARRED REVIEWS! ★
★ “A moving testimonial, distilled from 2017’s Coretta: My Life, My Love, My Legacy... Eloquent and stately.” —Kirkus Reviews, starred review
★ “Adapted from King’s autobiography, this picture book offers a new generation the remarkable story of the activist, artist, wife, and mother whose grace in the face of unspeakable loss continued the momentum of a movement… Reynolds and Holmes bring this civil rights icon to life, reminding readers of a dream yet to be fully realized.” —Horn Book, starred review
The Three Little Tardigrades by Sandra Fay
On Sale Now!
In this hilarious retelling of “The Three Little Pigs”, three little tardigrades set out to find a home that’s just right for them—all while watching out for the Big Hairy Wolf Spider.
★ TWO STARRED REVIEWS! ★
★ “The humor is spot-on, informative, and self-aware, and background details like Gavin donning SPF 9999 or Colin wearing mittens and drinking hot cocoa are pure fun. Give this one to kids who love learning about the weirder things nature has to offer.” —Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books, starred review
★ “Substituting water bears for little pigs, Fay’s playfully STEM-centric tale introduces a trio of tardigrades dwelling together ‘in a cozy little drop of H20.’ Fay’s potato-and-paint artwork gives tidy graphical verve to this laugh-out-loud story of survival superpowers, told in fittingly fact-laden, serio-comic prose.” —Publishers Weekly, starred review
When You Have to Wait by Melanie Conklin; illustrated by Leah Hong
On Sale Now!
A mindful, gentle picture book about patience and learning to find beauty in the act of waiting.
★ TWO STARRED REVIEWS! ★
★ “With soft textures and a gentle palette, Hong’s gouache and crayon illustrations perfectly echo the sentiment of the text and inspire a sense of calm mindfulness. The use of white space also encourages readers to pause and focus on small details. In a world fixated on instant gratification, Conklin and Hong make a persuasive case for the sense of joy and connection that can be found when we slow down. A relatable and beautifully rendered tale about the value of patience.” —Kirkus Reviews, starred review
★ “Conklin and Hong compassionately limn experiences of childhood longing in an emotionally honest picture book about one of life’s truths: Sometimes, you have to wait.” —Publishers Weekly, starred review
Sour Apple by Linda Liu
On Sale July 9th, 2024!
From the creator of Hidden Gem comes a funny and delightful new picture book about an apple who learns the importance of self-acceptance and patience after being left behind during picking season.
★ “A tremendous homage to self-esteem, individuality, thoughtfulness, surrender, and hope.” —School Library Journal, starred review
Emma Full of Wonders by Elisha Cooper
On Sale Now!
A beautiful classic-in-the-making, Caldecott Honor Winner Elisha Cooper’s Emma Full of Wonders is a heartwarming and special read that will be cherished amongst readers young and old.
★ “Cooper captures [a] miracle in illustrations so tastefully straightforward that, as he recognizes, words are unnecessary.” — Shelf Awareness, starred review
Threads: Zlata’s Ukrainian Shirt by Lina Maslo
On Sale Now!
Threads is an inspiring picture book about a girl’s survival of the 1930s Ukrainian Famine-Genocide, messaging hope, pride for one’s heritage, and context for today’s War in Ukraine.
★ “Drawing inspiration from the experiences of her grandparents, Maslo offers a window into the Ukrainian spirit… A poignant yet accessible entry into Ukraine’s ongoing suffering—and survival.” —Kirkus Reviews, starred review
The Fish of Small Wishes by Elana K. Arnold; illustrated by Magdalena Mora
On Sale Now!
Fall in love with a modern fairy tale inspired by a Jewish family memory in this magical picture book by award-winning picture book creators Elana K. Arnold and Magdalena Mora.
★ “Well suited to reading aloud, this imaginative narrative was inspired by a family story about Arnold’s great-great-grandfather. The illustrations, created with gouache paints, colored pencils, inks, and collage, glow with warmth and color. While the art has a dreamlike element, the characters are neither idealized nor ethereal. Kiki is determined to save the fish, who seems embarrassed by its limited ability to grant wishes. Their down-to-earth demeanors and emotions suit this endearing picture book well.” —Booklist, starred review
Homegrown by DeAnn Wiley
On Sale Now!
A touching and stunningly illustrated ode to the homes—and loved ones—that raise us, perfect for fans of Black Is a Rainbow Color, Saturday, and Last Stop on Market Street.
★ “A sweet, meditative story of a young Black girl and her intergenerational household, and the love and care that goes into making a “home.” . . . Sparse text is on the smaller side and ranges one or two sentences per page, giving Wiley space to capture the kaleidoscope brightness of joyful Black girlhood. . . Vibrant and hopeful, Wiley’s author-illustrator debut about a young Black girl and her loving community belongs in every collection.” —School Library Journal, starred review
Memory Garden by Zohreh Ghahremani; illustrated by Susie Ghahremani
On Sale Now!
A lively afternoon together in Nana’s garden is full of laughter, discovery, and connection. In lyrical text that blends past and present, Memory Garden takes us to the places we leave behind but never forget.
★ “Children and adults will thoroughly enjoy this vivid memoir that weaves past and present in a timeless celebration of family and culture. A recommended, essential purchase.” —School Library Journal, starred review
You’re Going to Love This Book! by Jory John; illustrated by Olivier Tallec
On Sale Now!
Sure to bring a smile to the faces of even the grumpiest readers, this laugh-out-loud picture book from #1 New York Times–bestselling author Jory John and internationally acclaimed illustrator Olivier Tallec is hilarious enough to come back to again and again.
★ “An essential book to liven up story hours.” —School Library Journal, starred review
Dive! by Chris Gall
On Sale April 9, 2024!
Dive! is a fascinating introduction to the comprehensive world history of diving by award-winning artist Chris Gall.
★ “An excellent addition for most STEAM collections.” —Booklist, starred review
Cesaria Feels the Beat by Denise Rosario Adusei; illustrated by Priscila Soares
On Sale June 4, 2024!
In this powerful and inspiring picture book, a deaf girl stands up for herself and takes off her shoes while dancing at her Carnival performance so she can feel the music through her bare feet.
★ “A vibrant, poetic celebration of Deafness, dance, nature, and self-advocacy.” —Kirkus Reviews, starred review
Plain Jane and the Mermaid by Vera Brosgol
On Sale Now!
From Anya’s Ghost and Be Prepared author Vera Brosgol comes an instant classic graphic novel that flips every fairy-tale you know on its head, and shows one girl’s crusade for the only thing that matters—her own independence.
★ FOUR STARRED REVIEWS! ★
★ “Complex characters, twists and turns, and beautiful artwork blend harmoniously for a perfect read that will jump-start the imagination.” –School Library Journal, starred review
★ “A funny and fast-paced feminist adventure masterfully told through the comics medium.” –Horn Book Magazine, starred review
★ “This rollicking tale of an insecure girl finding her strength and breaking from tradition is another triumph for Brosgol.” —Publishers Weekly, starred review
★ “In a story bolstered by a wonderful cast, an otherworldly setting, and poignantly accessible feelings, Brosgol once again captures magic, menace, and humanity.” —Booklist, starred review
★ “This rollicking tale of an insecure girl finding her strength and breaking from tradition is another triumph for Brosgol.” —Publishers Weekly, starred review
★ “In a story bolstered by a wonderful cast, an otherworldly setting, and poignantly accessible feelings, Brosgol once again captures magic, menace, and humanity.” —Booklist, starred review
The Girl Who Sang by Estelle Nadel with Bethany Strout; illustrated by Sammy Savos
On Sale Now!
A heartrending graphic memoir about a young Jewish girl’s fight for survival in Nazi occupied Poland, The Girl Who Sang illustrates the power of a brother’s love, the kindness of strangers, and finding hope when facing the unimaginable.
★ TWO STARRED REVIEWS! ★
★ “Told in five parts, Nadel’s story presents readers with a picture of her life before (“I thought we would be this happy forever”), during, and—crucially—after the war. Savos’ exceptionally powerful illustrations convey the extremes of human emotion, make original use of different perspectives, and are both cinematic and intimate; they also do not shy away from accurately portraying the hardships and violence. Sweeping, stark, tragic, and triumphant.” —Kirkus Reviews, starred review
★ “An excellent accompaniment to lessons on World War II, this book will help countless students examine the Holocaust on a personal level. A must-have. The graphic novel format will appeal to those whose first choice might not be history or biography, and all others will be invited to consider the full-life experiences of Holocaust survivors.” —School Library Journal, starred review
The Sixth Extinction (young readers adaptation) by Elizabeth Kolbert
On Sale Now!
In this young readers adaptation of the New York Times-bestselling, Pulitzer Prize-winning The Sixth Extinction, Elizabeth Kolbert tells us why and how human beings have altered life on the planet in a way no species has before.
★ TWO STARRED REVIEWS! ★
★ “[Kolbert] says people think that to prevent the sixth extinction they need to care more and make sacrifices, but ‘It doesn’t much matter if people care or don’t care. What matters is that people change the world.’ After reading her lively, entertaining, and very accessible book, young readers will be inspired to try.” —Booklist, starred review
★ “Highly expressive and vividly detailed writing conveys the tragedy that humanity is bringing on itself. . . Essential for science discussions on mass extinctions to challenge advanced middle grade readers.” —School Library Journal, starred review
DnDoggos: Get the Party Started by Scout Underhill; colors by Liana Sposto
On Sale Now!
Four adorable dogs have picked their characters and favorite dice and are ready to save the day in DnDoggos: Get the Party Started, the middle grade graphic novel debut from online comic creator Scout Underhill.
★ TWO STARRED REVIEWS! ★
★ “Underhill’s debut makes a seamless transition from webcomic to traditional graphic novel. The vibrant, full-page illustrations combined with thoughtfully placed panels allow for clear sequencing throughout. Readers are able to easily differentiate between the dogs as players versus their game characters thanks to clever distinctions in how their facial features are illustrated (these differences are also shown side by side in an introductory guide to the cast). When compared to the simpler lines and color palette of the game players’ table scenes, the detailed, vividly colored scenes portraying the in-game adventure draw readers into the campaign in the same way human players use their imaginations to immerse themselves in RPGs. The irresistibly charming dogs guide young readers through the rules of tabletop RPGs while seamlessly demonstrating meaningful lessons about teamwork. A smart, endearing tale packed with adorable dogs and useful tips for role-playing game newcomers.” —Kirkus Reviews, starred review
★ “Readers will devour this entertaining story and may find themselves reaching for dice and pencils while they wait for another adventure.” —School Library Journal, starred review
Unicorn Boy by Dave Roman
On Sale Now!
Go on a magical journey with this quirky, young reader’s graphic novel about a boy who sprouts a unicorn horn and uses his newfound powers to help those in need!
★ TWO STARRED REVIEWS! ★
★ “Underlying themes of self-love, friendship, and acceptance, and the responsible use of great power, make this superhero-adjacent series opener ideal for readers seeking an upbeat blend of magic and character growth.” —Publishers Weekly, starred review
★ “With the humor of Meggie Ramm’s Batcat and the layered hero’s journey of Ben Hatke’s Things in the Basement, this is a true hero of a tale.” —School Library Journal, starred review
Olivetti by Allie Millington
On Sale Now!
A heartfelt novel praised by Tom Hanks in the New York Times as including “a conclusion nearly impossible to divine and yet so perfect it includes that most tactile of memories…”
★ TWO STARRED REVIEWS! ★
★ “An introverted boy and his missing mother’s cherished typewriter plumb forgotten family stories while journeying toward acceptance in this touching middle-grade mystery. The Brindle family swarms distractedly around seventh-grader Ernest, everyone fixed in their ways until the morning Beatrice, his mom, vanishes. This isn’t the family’s first trauma, but, after “Everything That Happened,” Ernest finds an unexpected ally: Olivetti, Beatrice’s classic typewriter, who explains, “We [typewriters] hold thousands of stories. Worlds full of words.” … As inanimate narrators go, Olivetti is especially well suited to the task and takes turns with Ernest in lending his perspective to the short chapters. And, as stories about stories go, Olivetti’s and Ernest’s insights about the power of memories, both held and shared, speak volumes. Offering a Where’d You Go, Bernadette vibe, with its unspooling of a youth perspective on the adult world, this melancholic yet hopeful pick will appeal to fans of books with nonhuman protagonists and readers who enjoy emotional stories with alternating perspectives, such as A Rover’s Story and The Lost Library.” —Booklist magazine, starred review
★ “Debut author Millington skillfully delivers a complex storyline that deals with heavy topics. With plenty of quotable wisdom, richly textured language, and dry humor, this work reads like a classic.“–Kirkus Reviews, starred review “With the humor of Meggie Ramm’s Batcat and the layered hero’s journey of Ben Hatke’s Things in the Basement, this is a true hero of a tale.” —School Library Journal, starred review
Three Summers by Amra Sabic-El-Rayess with Laura L. Sullivan
On Sale Now!
An epic middle-grade memoir about sisterhood and coming-of-age in the three years leading up to the Bosnian Genocide.
★ TWO STARRED REVIEWS! ★
★ “An insightful and solemn yet hopeful memoir that will hook readers…Remarkable.” —School Library Journal, starred review
★ “Sensitively crafted and thought-provoking memoir…This searching, introspective work—a timely tale of resilience—presciently observes that ‘words, ideas, hate can kill people.'” —Publishers Weekly, starred review
Witch Hunt by Andrea Balis & Elizabeth Levy; illustrations by Tim Foley
On Sale Now!
A cutting-edge look into a pivotal moment in US history: McCarthy’s infamous “witch hunt” for communists during the 1950’s Red Scare.
★ TWO STARRED REVIEWS! ★
★ “A scorcher that exposes shameful attitudes, personalities, and events that might seem eerily familiar.” —Kirkus Reviews, starred review
★ “A fast-paced, even suspenseful read that brings history dramatically alive.” —Booklist, starred review
Mountain of Fire by Rebecca E. F. Barone
On Sale Now!
Mountain of Fire is the narrative nonfiction account of the violent volcanic eruption of Mount St. Helens on May 18, 1980, the story of the people who died, those who survived, and the heroes who fought to raise an alarm.
★ TWO STARRED REVIEWS! ★
★ “Pulse racing history that’s sure to fascinate any reader.” —Booklist, starred review
★ “Rock-solid history and science, high-octane action, and vivid descriptions—the book will inspire as much as it entertains.” —Kirkus, starred review
Read at Your Own Risk by Remy Lai
On Sale August 13, 2024!
Read at Your Own Risk is the illustrated sketch diary of a girl who is being haunted after a game goes terribly wrong and an evil spirit starts conversing with her on the page—perfect for fans of R.L. Stine and Steven Seagle’s Camp Midnight.
★ “An ominous yet irresistible story that will delight and distress in equal measure.” —Kirkus, starred review
Tiffany’s Griffon by Magnolia Porter Siddell & Maddi Gonzalez
On Sale August 13, 2024!
Marnie Plummer is a bookish, lonely girl with a chip on her shoulder. There’s nothing she cares about more than her favorite book series, The Griffon Riders of Crystalfall. When it miraculously turns out that the world of the books is actually real, and they need a Chosen One to come from the real world and save them from danger, Marnie is shocked and—of course—overjoyed.
★ “Built-in meta-humor compounds the laughs as fantasy and reality collide…An emotionally affecting work that explores the power of stories.” —Kirkus, starred review
Uprooted: A Memoir About What Happens When Your Family Moves Back by Ruth Chan
On Sale September 10, 2024!
Perfect for fans of New Kid and A First Time for Everything, a joyful and tearful debut middle grade graphic memoir about one girl being uprooted when she moves to Hong Kong, a place where her family fits in but, for her, it’s nothing like home.
★ “This is a coming-of-age immigrant memoir with a twist that highlights the complex nature of migration… Earnest, funny, and evocative.” —Kirkus, starred review
The Spindle of Fate by Aimee Lim
On Sale Now!
When Evie Mei discovers that her recently passed mother was the head of a guild of magical weavers, she enters the Chinese netherworld to try and bring her back in this middle-grade debut.
★ “Lim’s debut is a fast-paced, nail-biting page-turner featuring a likable narrator leaving her mundane life to take on a fantastical quest. The mix of gore, humor, and sentiment feels as if Pixar made a horror film, and the story is carried by a charismatic duo and their deepening friendship.“—The Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books, starred review
Eowulf: Of Monsters and Middle School by Mike Cavallaro
On Sale Now!
From Mike Cavallaro comes a story set in the Nico Bravo universe that spotlights an unforgettable, iconic new heroine!
★ “This new series hits a masterful note in its complex symphony of tween angst; Eowulf knows that something is amiss, and watching her forge ahead with candor and impulsivity makes her a compulsively relatable and endearing hero. Vivid, kinetic illustrations propel the adept plotting, and the coloring by Yeom makes the exciting battles positively blaze on the page. Nico Bravo aficionados will be pleased with winking nods to the trilogy throughout, and the clever, cliffhanging epilogue will certainly hook all readers. A pitch-perfect tale of friendship and fantastical foes.” —Kirkus Reviews, starred review
Detective Sweet Pea: The Case of the Golden Bone by Sara Varon
On Sale Now!
Can Detective Sweet Pea sniff out the suspect and crack the case? From beloved author Sara Varon comes a new graphic novel series for young readers!
★ “These characters and this town feel bursting with more stories to tell; readers will be grateful that this charming and smartly crafted mystery is just the start of a new series.” —Kirkus Reviews, starred review
Asgardians: Odin by George O’Connor
On Sale Now!
Following his smash-hit the Olympians series, New York Times bestseller George O’Connor embarks on a new saga about the Norse gods. This first volume tells the story of the warrior god Odin!
★ Anchored, as in the brilliant previous series, by bountiful source notes and commentary at the end, O’Connor’s account sets the tone at once with Valkyries swooping down to lift the unseen reader up from a battlefield strewn with corpses, then flashes back to chronicle a whirl of worlds and peoples arising from a huge and doughy frost giant floating in the void of Ginnungagap… A rainbow bridge to a fresh set of mythological places and faces.” —Kirkus Reviews, starred review
Maybe It’s a Sign by E. L. Shen
On Sale Now!
An uplifting middle-grade novel about loss, luck . . . and deep-dish chocolate chip cookies—perfect for fans of King and the Dragonflies and The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise.
★ “Tender and deeply personal . . . Maybe It’s a Sign is an earnest and memorable story about grieving and growing up.” —Shelf Awareness, starred review
Outdoor School: Gardening by Bridget Heos; illustrated by John D. Dawson
On Sale Now!
In this next gift-worthy, full-color, definitive guide in the Outdoor School line, discover the rich possibilities of gardening.
★ “Throughout the book, readers will find activities labeled “Try It,” “Track It,” and “Take It to the Next Level” that encourage active participation. Copious attractive full-color illustrations show both individual plants and garden scenes. Clearly and encouragingly presented; superb for any outdoorsy young person.” —Kirkus Reviews, starred review
Continental Drifter by Kathy MacLeod
On Sale Now!
With a Thai mother and an American father, Kathy lives in two different worlds. She spends most of the year in Bangkok, where she’s secretly counting the days till summer vacation. That’s when her family travels for twenty-four hours straight to finally arrive in a tiny seaside town in Maine.
★ “The simple yet expressive art style is charming and at times poignant, showing the family dynamics and the secrets locked within people’s hearts… A heartfelt story honestly and evocatively told.” —Kirkus Reviews, starred review
Survival of the Fittest by Rebecca Donnelly; illustrated by Misa Saburi
On Sale Now!
In this high-interest full-color graphic novel chapter book, embark on an engineering extravaganza and discover all that animals can do in a science competition!
★ “Shark Tank has nothing on this wild creature smackdown.” —Kirkus Reviews, starred review
Kid-ventors by Kailei Pew; with illustrations by Shannon Wright
On Sale Now!
From Popsicles® and swim fins to robots and glitter shooting prosthetics, Kailei Pew’s middle grade nonfiction debut is full of fun and inspiring stories, illustrated by Shannon Wright, about real kid inventors who proved that even the youngest people can change the world.
★ “An absolutely vital purchase for libraries that want to inspire and inform kids about their power to make a difference.” —School Library Journal, starred review
Queens of the Jungle by Dr. Carly Anne York; illustrated by Kimberlie Clinthorne-Wong
On Sale Now!
Discover the coolest female animals in the natural world with biologist Dr. Carly Anne York.
★ “Revelatory reading for audiences of every gender.” —Kirkus Reviews, starred review
Lunar New Year Love Story by Gene Luen Yang; illustrated by LeUyen Pham
On Sale Now!
Graphic novel superstars Gene Luen Yang and LeUyen Pham join forces in this heartwarming rom-com about fate, family, and falling in love.
★ EIGHT STARRED REVIEWS! ★
★ “A sparkling romance anchored by a poignant coming-of-age story.” —Kirkus Reviews, starred review
★ “Pham’s art embodies every essence of his narrative, every page enhanced with unstoppable, Technicolor energy. Enough effusive praise just isn’t possible here for what is sure to be a runaway hit. Yang and Pham boast impressive credentials in the graphic novel space, and together they’ll be unstoppable.” —Booklist, starred review
★ “Readers will fall in love with this heartwarming, fun rom-com… A positive and beautiful work of art that will make an impression on readers.” —School Library Journal, starred review
★ “Yang and Pham do a wonderful job of weaving fractured families and romantic yearning with fantasy elements that show emotional states and growth, with plenty of humor throughout. Pham’s digital illustrations adeptly mix realistic scenes with celestial animals and ghosts. Her gorgeous, kinetic depictions of Chinese and Korean lion dancers are joyful, and the section in which Valentina first learns about Tết and meets her love interest is especially vibrant.” —Horn Book, starred review
★ “Poignant moments amplified by evocatively colored digitally rendered panels address deep issues of parental abandonment and grief, while interjections of comic relief and a riveting subplot surrounding lion dancing result in a well-paced, well-balanced dual effort.” —Publishers Weekly, starred review
★ “Lunar New Year Love Story is a buoying tale about being open to the pain of love.” — Shelf Awareness, starred review
★ “Graphic novel lovers who find themselves immersed in richly illustrated, culturally resonant intergenerational stories…will be unable to resist the intricate dance between love, grief, and learning staged in this fiercely empathetic instant classic.” —BCCB, starred review
★ “Lunar New Year Love Story will appeal to a broad audience, including younger teens. Though it is a love story, it embraces all kinds of love: romantic, yes, but also familial, intergenerational, spiritual and the special love between trusted friends.” —Bookpage, starred review
The Last Bloodcarver by Vanessa Le
On Sale Now!
The tantalizing romance of These Violent Delights meets the mechanical wonders of Cinder in Vanessa Le’s The Last Bloodcarver, the first in a two-book debut – with a riveting medical magic system and lush Vietnam-inspired fantasy world.
★ FOUR STARRED REVIEWS! ★
★ “Le writes with meticulous care. The richly detailed worldbuilding is infused with Vietnamese cultural elements, and the characters, viewed through Nhika’s jaded yet desperately hopeful eyes, are sympathetic and complex, expressing conflicting emotions and motivations. The story demands, in the best possible ways, that readers think, posing questions of identity, family, and trust for them to ponder. The insidiously twisty ending packs a punch, leaving an opening for a sequel.” —Kirkus Reviews, starred review
★ “Le expertly crafts a Vietnamese-inspired dark fantasy debut via visceral and exquisitely rendered prose, intertwining a murder investigation with themes of unresolved grief, medical ethics, and lost heritage.” —Publishers Weekly, starred review
★ “Deeply romantic, and darkly biological.” —Booklist, starred review
★ “All collections will benefit from this unequivocal first purchase.” —School Library Journal, starred review
Ash’s Cabin by Jen Wang
On Sale August 13, 2024!
From New York Times–bestselling author and illustrator Jen Wang comes a singularly affecting story about self-discovery, self-reliance, and the choice to live when it feels like you have no place in the world.
★ THREE STARRED REVIEWS! ★
★ “Perfection—literary and artistic—awaits here.” —Booklist, starred review
★ “Wang (Stargazing) delivers a stunning, contemplative wilderness adventure via muted earth-tone watercolors that tackles head-on the present-day experience of living in what often feels like a time of apocalyptic change.” —Publisher’s Weekly, starred review
★ “Wang masterfully adapts this storyline for contemporary audiences, seamlessly weaving questions of identity, gender, race (Ash has Chinese and Irish ancestry), and climate change into this fundamental tale of survival. Searing and radiant.” — Kirkus, starred review
Song of the Six Realms by Judy I. Lin
On Sale Now!
Judy I. Lin, #1 New York Times bestselling author of A Magic Steeped in Poison, weaves a dreamy gothic romance worthy of the heavens in Song of the Six Realms.
★ THREE STARRED REVIEWS! ★
★ “Lin’s uncommonly beautiful prose (“I was no longer a girl orphaned . . . I was the song, spiraling upwards. A water spirit, dancing in the light”) transports readers to a world rich with descriptive details and an intricately layered plot full of mystery and intrigue. Xue’s narration imparts intimacy to this otherwise epic tale; the xianxia fantasy with Gothic elements is an inspired pairing, and Lin’s choices in style and narration are the perfect complement to this C-drama-worthy tearjerker. Fantasy readers will be delighted with this standalone follow-up to Lin’s bestselling Book of Tea duology.” —BCCB, starred review
★ “A love letter to the power of music and a heady tour through a setting inspired by Chinese mythology and legend. … Refreshing … With a smart, steadfast heroine, a charming love interest and compelling side characters, Song of the Six Realms is a dazzling, dreamlike escape into a world of powerful poetry, godly magic and humble heroism.” —BookPage, starred review
★ “Lin (A Venom Dark and Sweet) weaves together poetry, music, and Chinese folklore to compose a gorgeously written, captivating story of love, grief, and family that’s anchored in a vibrant world of danger and intrigue.” —Publishers Weekly, starred review
Thirsty by Jas Hammonds
On Sale Now!
From Jas Hammonds, award-winning author of We Deserve Monuments, comes an unflinching novel about addiction that Courtney Summers, New York Times bestselling author of Sadie and I’m the Girl, called “sensitively wrought and gorgeously written.”
★ THREE STARRED REVIEWS! ★
★ “A profound must-read.” —School Library Journal, starred review
★ “Readers will be gripped from the very beginning. A gut-wrenching story.” —Kirkus Reviews, starred review
★ “Hammonds expertly weaves explorations of class, family, queer identity, race, and substance reliance into a glittering, harrowing narrative that is compulsively readable, gorgeously written, and intricately crafted.” —Publishers Weekly, starred review
Call Me Iggy by Jorge Aguirre; illustrated by Rafael Rosado
On Sale Now!
Ignacio “Iggy” Garcia is an Ohio-born Colombian American teen living his best life. After bumping into Marisol (and her coffee) at school, Iggy’s world is spun around. But Marisol has too much going on to be bothered with the likes of Iggy. She has school, work, family, and the uphill battle of getting her legal papers. As Iggy stresses over how to get Marisol to like him, his grandfather comes to the rescue. The thing is, not only is his abuelito dead, but he also gives terrible love advice. The worst. And so, with his ghost abuelito’s meddling, Iggy’s life begins to unravel as he sets off on a journey of self-discovery.
★ THREE STARRED REVIEWS! ★
★ “Deeply recommended, especially for high school libraries where slice-of-life stories are popular.g experience.” —School Library Journal, starred review
★ “Pristine artwork and a witty, nuanced story make this an unforgettable reading experience.” —Booklist, starred review
★ “A powerful, timely story delicately balances an authentic teenage voice with a nuanced message about embracing and straddling multiple identities while thoughtfully portraying racism, microaggressions, and anti-immigrant ideology” —Kirkus Reviews, starred review
Crashing into You by Rocky Callen
On Sale June 25, 2024!
In this fiercely moving YA romance novel, Leti Rivera’s love of street racing is put to the test when tragedy strikes her family and threatens to tear her apart from the boy she’s falling for.
★ TWO STARRED REVIEWS! ★
★ “An Ecuadorian cultural infusion and great autistic representation layer with busy, realistic-feeling teens, a complex but ultimately hopeful family dynamic, and a lightning-fast plot for a powerful emotional payoff about the consequences of losing one’s self.” —Booklist, starred review
★ “This novel should hold an important place in teen libraries.” —School Library Journal, starred review
With Love, Miss Americanah by Jane Igharo
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With Love, Miss Americanah—the Young Adult contemporary romance debut from Jane Igharo—sees a teenager move from Nigeria to America and navigate her senior year with the help of classic teen movies and a new crush, all while working through grief and the rigid expectations of her mother.
★ TWO STARRED REVIEWS! ★
★ “In her YA debut, Igharo has crafted a lively novel that cleverly balances the portrayals of a family coping with grief and the whirlwind of high school experiences. Enore is well drawn, believable, and easy to cheer for, and her developing relationship with Davi is touching. Warm, well rounded, and a perfect combination of entertaining and substantive.” —Kirkus, starred review
★ “With Love, Miss Americanah is the next coming-of-age hit, perfect for fans of Jenny Han. . . Through new relationships, pursuing new opportunities, and taking a stance on what’s important, Enore finds her voice in more ways than one.” —Booklist, starred review
A Tempest of Tea by Hafsah Faizal
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From the New York Times–bestselling author of We Hunt the Flame comes the first book in a hotly-anticipated fantasy duology teeming with romance and revenge, led by an orphan girl willing to do whatever it takes to save her self-made kingdom.
★ TWO STARRED REVIEWS! ★
★ “This compelling read offers interesting commentary on our society while feeling entirely real within the context of its own worldbuilding. Crowd-pleasing fun laced with political fire: a winner.“—Kirkus Reviews, starred review
★ “In this captivating duology opener, Faizal crafts a steadfast love letter to the security of found family, the strength and struggles of immigrants thriving in the face of violent colonialism and white supremacy, and the wondrous experience of a good cup of tea. Faizal draws on well-known adventure tropes then delightfully subverts them via sumptuous writing, making for a sublime heist novel and revenge tale.” —Publishers Weekly, starred review
Dear Wendy by Ann Zhao
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Dear Wendy’s Sophie and Jo, two aromantic and asexual college students, engage in an online feud while unknowingly becoming friends in real life, in this dual POV Young Adult contemporary debut from Ann Zhao.
★ TWO STARRED REVIEWS! ★
★ “Zhao curates a realistic setting at a women’s college full of angsty queer students caught in the throes of romance, self-doubt, and self-discovery, culminating in a gently sweet aro-ace rom-com and a raw and emotionally resonant debut.” —Publishers Weekly, starred review
★ “This book is a love letter to chosen family, platonic love, and the aromantic and asexual communities. If you have ever wished that more romances were about friends, or if you’ve ever found yourself thinking that Jo March from Little Women was probably aromantic, then you need to do yourself a favor and pick it up.” —Booklist, starred review
Where Sleeping Girls Lie by Faridah Àbíké-Íyímídé
On Sale Now!
In Where Sleeping Girls Lie — a YA contemporary mystery by Faridah Àbíké-Íyímídé, the New York Times-bestselling author of Ace of Spades — a girl new to boarding school discovers dark secrets and coverups after her roommate disappears.
★ TWO STARRED REVIEWS! ★
★ “Where Sleeping Girls Lie is a beautifully written coming-of-age mystery that should appeal to fans of Tiffany Jackson, Kara Thomas, and Jumata Emill.” —Shelf Awareness, starred review
★ “Àbíké-Íyímídé (Ace of Spades) presents a powerful look at grief, rape culture, and moving on from loss in this exquisitely crafted paranormal mystery.” —Publishers Weekly, starred review
Whose Right Is It? The Fourteenth Amendment and the Fight for Equality by Hana Bajramovic
On Sale June 25, 2024!
Discover the truth about the Fourteenth Amendment, civil rights, and the United States’ continued fight for equality in this singular nonfiction book for young readers.
★ “In the second installment in her Whose Right Is It? series, Bajramovic presents a concise and accessible narrative of the creation, fluid interpretation, and impact of the Fourteenth Amendment . . . Clear eyed, even handed, and incredibly well documented, this ideal classroom pick accessibly introduces an essential and increasingly consequential part of the U.S. Constitution.” —Booklist, Starred Review
Portrait of a Shadow by Meriam Metoui
On Sale July 16, 2024!
A missing sister. A mysterious boy. And a painting that holds the truth beneath its peeling edge…
★ “Masterfully written, this is a deceptively charming horror story that also skillfully weaves in romance, sacrifice, and heartbreak. Thrilling intrigue that leverages desperation and deception in almost equal measures.” – Kirkus Reviews, starred review
Youth Group by Jordan Morris; illustrated by Bowen McCurdy
On Sale July 16, 2024!
Buffy the Vampire Slayer meets The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina in this darkly funny YA graphic novel.
★ “A distinctly 1990s backdrop with the era’s satanic panic, pager tech, and quirky slang lightens the mood of demon fighting and religious existentialism.” –Booklist, starred review
The Great Cool Ranch Dorito in the Sky by Josh Galarza
On Sale July 23, 2024!
Perfect for fans of Mark Oshiro and Adam Silvera comes a fiercely funny and hopeful story of one boy’s attempts to keep everything under control while life has other plans.
★ “Brett’s quirky voice . . . tempers this funny yet bruising narrative about one teen’s experience with grief and disordered eating in which debut author Galarza carefully touches on issues surrounding underage drinking, body dysmorphia, and internalized anti-fatness.” —Publishers Weekly, starred review
Eighteen Roses by Shannon C. F. Rogers
On Sale July 30, 2024!
Lucia Cruz may be turning eighteen this year, but she is not the debutante type. Everything about a traditional Filipino debut feels all wrong for her. Besides, custom dictates that eighteen friends attend her for a special ceremony on her birthday, and Lucia only has one friend– Esmé Mares. They’ve stuck to each other’s side all throughout high school, content to be friends with only each other. At least, Lucia thought they were content.
★ “Rogers’ lush, vivid storytelling brings Albuquerque alive, and readers will feel deeply for Lucia’s struggle with the terrible ordeal of knowing and being known… This should absolutely not be missed.” —Booklist, starred review
Hurdles in the Dark: My Story of Survival, Resilience, and Triumph by Elvira K. Gonzalez
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A Mexican-American teen girl dreams of winning an athletic scholarship against all odds in a Texas border town. This true story of survival, strength, and triumph is perfect for fans of Educated and Athlete A.
★ “In this gritty and inspiring narrative… Gonzalez candidly writes about financial uncertainty, racism, sexual abuse, and violence in her sincere and thoughtful work… Hurdles in the Dark highlights the struggles that many vulnerable young athletes from underrepresented backgrounds face.” –Shelf Awareness, starred review
Flawless Girls by Anna-Marie McLemore
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Tautly written, tense, and evocative, this is a stunning YA novel by award-winning and critically acclaimed author Anna-Marie McLemore.
★ “An exquisitely crafted YA tale about the prescribed bounds of femininity by Anna-Marie McLemore…Flawless Girls splits storied notions of proper femininity–and gender itself–apart at the seams in an exemplary portrait of learning to express oneself…McLemore’s signature prose both cuts like ice and rolls languidly off the tongue.” —Shelf Awareness, starred review
For the Stolen Fates by Gwendolyn Clare
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In this heart-pumping sci-fi sequel to In the City of Time, two people have to work together to prevent the cataclysm that will soon break the laws of physics and render Earth uninhabitable.
★ “An interesting parallel between Aris and Willa regarding vulnerability, which gives both characters emotional resonance, enhances rather than distracts from the narrative tension as Willa and Saudade get ever closer to finding out who caused the cataclysm and how to prevent it. A fantastically woven, intelligent story with real gems of characters.” —Kirkus Reviews, starred review
Most Ardently: A Pride & Prejudice Remix by Gabe Cole Novoa
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In the Remixed Classics series, authors from marginalized backgrounds reinterpret classic works through their own cultural lens to subvert the overwhelming cishet, white, and male canon. This bittersweet Pride & Prejudice remix follows a trans boy yearning for the freedom to live openly, centering queerness in a well-known story of longing and subverting society’s patriarchal and cisheteronormative expectations.
★ “Novoa’s interpretation of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice is a testament to the power of queer spaces and community. … Brimming with wit and chemistry, this queer revision of a much-beloved source text is nothing short of masterful. A must-purchase.” —School Library Journal, starred review
Just Say Yes by Goldy Moldavsky
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From the New York Times–bestselling author Goldy Moldavsky comes a charming rom-com about your average high school senior in search of . . . a husband?
★ “Here is a novel that brightly celebrates resilience, determination, and the universal desire for a place to call home.” —School & Library Journal, starred review
Bunt! by Ngozi Ukazu; illustrated by Mad Rupert
On Sale Now!
Molly Bauer’s first year of college is not the picture-perfect piece of art she’d always envisioned. On day one at PICA, Molly discovers that—through some horrible twist of fate—her full-ride scholarship has vanished! But the ancient texts (PICA’s dusty financial aid documents) reveal a loophole. If Molly and 9 other art students win a single game of softball, they’ll receive a massive athletic scholarship. Can Molly’s crew of ragtag artists succeed in softball without dropping the ball?
★ “The diverse ensemble cast is hilariously written, ingeniously personifying and exaggerating the delightfully weird, bombastic student body of an art school.” —BCCB, starred review
Daughter of the Bone Forest by Jasmine Skye
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Two girls reluctantly bound by fate must weather a dangerous courtship as a prophesied war grows ever closer in Jasmine Skye’s high-stakes, queernormative dark fantasy debut, Daughter of the Bone Forest.
★ “This is Skye’s debut, the first of a planned duology, and it ends on a cliff-hanger. Give it to teens who love high fantasy and get incredibly invested in series books. It’s not to be missed.” —Booklist, starred review
We Are Mayhem by Beck Rourke-Mooney
On Sale Now!
Filled with messy, complicated characters, We Are Mayhem is a debut YA novel about finding your strength, embracing your weird, and being who you truly are – no matter what.
★ “Fans of GLOW and WWE will catch familiar names, but readers who don’t care about wrestling shouldn’t dismiss this highly entertaining, knockout debut packed with vivid characters, fun wordplay, and the perfect amount of heart.” —Booklist, starred review
Karate Prom by Kyle Starks
On Sale May 7, 2024!
Fast-paced, madcap, and completely free of any kind of redeeming or morally thoughtful content, KARATE PROM is a loving homage to teen comedies of the ’80s as well as badly dubbed kung-fu films.
★ “True to its title, Karate Prom creates a joy-filled story about two teens who want to be together so badly, they are willing to fight for it. A tale for lovers and fighters alike.” —School Library Journal, starred review
I Wish You Would by Eva Des Lauriers
On Sale May 21, 2024!
To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before meets You’ve Reached Sam—with all the feels of a Taylor Swift song—in this love story in which explosive secrets threaten to tear everyone apart, including best friends (or maybe more?), Natalia and Ethan.
★ “Des Lauriers’ brilliant debut novel will set readers’ hearts aflutter. Romantic, compelling, and optimistic, I Wish You Would isn’t to be missed.” —Booklist, starred review
Maelstrom: A Prince of Evil by Lorian Merriman
On Sale Now!
In this action-packed, hilarious fantasy graphic novel perfect for fans of Nimona and The Adventure Zone, Maelstrom, the demon son of an evil tyrant improbably teams up with the Hero of Virtue to take his mother down—that is, unless, Maelstrom decides to betray the Hero first.
★ “Fans of ND Stevenson’s Nimona will adore Merriman’s graphic novel debut, which is a sheer delight that mixes a wholly original and cleverly wrought fantasy with deeper issues of self-acceptance, friendship, found family, and identity.” —Kirkus, starred review
