Set in Boston, All You Have to Do presents two parallel stories of 16-year-old Black students navigating predominantly white schools. In 1968, in the immediate aftermath of Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination, Kevin joins a student led protest at his university and faces harsh ramifications for his choices. In 1995, Gibran faces similar challenges as he navigates microaggressions and the controversy and consequences of his choice to honor the Million Man March. Both teens must confront the complexities of race, privilege, and belonging as they struggle to find their voices and fight for justice. This powerful, dual-timeline novel explores themes of racial identity, social justice, and the enduring impact of history. It will move readers and resonate deeply with contemporary issues of race and equality.

Set in 1990s Los Angeles, Chasing Pacquiao follows 15-year-old Bobby, a Filipino-American queer teen, who faces relentless bullying in high school. After Bobby is viscously attacked by a trio of bullies and badly injured, he takes up boxing in the hopes of fighting back. As Bobby immerses himself in the world of boxing, he discovers that true strength comes from more than just physical power—it comes from persistence, self-acceptance, and community. But when Bobby’s hero, world champion fighter Manny Pacquiao makes his views opposition to homosexuality public, Bobby is deeply shaken. This compelling coming-of-age story touches on themes of homophobia, fallen heroes, and more with nuance and sensitivity. Readers will connect with Bobby’s authenticity and root for him too!

Set in a dystopian New Beijing, where society is divided into class based rings, Kingdom of Without follows 17-year-old Zhong Ning’er, a Sixth-Ring thief. After her addict father empties her bank account, Zhong starts working with Red Yaksha, a Robin Hoodesque masked hero, and his crew of rebels to earn some much needed money. Zhong’s first assignment? To free a rebel leader trapped inside a secret lab. In the face of dangerous and daunting assignments as well as widespread political corruption, Zhong, a reluctant rebel, finds unexpected friendships, purpose, and perhaps most importantly, hope. With its gripping plot and strong, complex protagonist, Kingdom of Without is a perfect choice for fans of dystopian tales who love a mix of technology, intrigue, and ethical dilemmas!

After her mum dies leaving her an orphan, Rosie Frost, a spirited, ginger-haired 13-year-old, is sent to a school with ties to the Tudors located on the mysterious Bloodstone Island. As Rosie begins to discover secrets and connections to her family’s past, her most prized possession (a red case of her mum’s) is taken by the headmaster and Rosie suddenly finds herself uncovering a disturbing plot that threatens Bloodstone Island’s incredible endangered animals. In the hopes of reclaiming her beloved red case and exposing this sinister plot, Rosie enters the infamous Falcon Queen Games and competes in three dangerous and daunting physical and mental challenges. This fast-paced adventure is filled with mystery, historical and royal intrigue, and a touch of magic. Rosie is a deeply relatable and empowering protagonist whom readers will eagerly root for!

In this thoughtful and heartfelt novel, a young girl grapples with big questions about life, religion, and her own beliefs. The story follows Agnes, an inquisitive 12-year-old, who grapples with the image of God as an old white man. As she wrestles with big questions, Agnes forms a friendship with her anthropologist neighbor, who helps confirm her curiosity and helps expand her thinking and she identifies with opossums’ survival strategy of “playing dead” in her confirmation class. With nuance and a pitch perfect mix of humor and heart, Opinions and Opossums encourages young minds to think critically and embrace the courage it takes to ask questions and seek their own truths. A short, powerful, resonant read!

“Hands-On Science: Geology” by Lola M. Schaefer is an excellent resource for young scientists eager to explore the fascinating world of rocks and minerals. This book offers a perfect blend of informative text and engaging activities that make learning about geology fun and interactive. Schaefer’s clear explanations and vivid illustrations help bring complex concepts to life in a way that is accessible for elementary students. This is a great book for its ability to spark curiosity and enthusiasm for geology. It’s a fantastic addition to any classroom or library, providing an interactive information that encourages young learners to explore and discover the wonders of geology.

“My House, My Family” by C. Hope Flinchbaugh is a delightful exploration of family life and home. The book celebrates diversity by showcasing different types of families and their unique traditions. Flinchbaugh’s engaging text, paired with warm illustrations, makes this an inviting read for young children. I recommend “My House, My Family” for its heartwarming depiction of family and the way it encourages children to appreciate their own homes and family dynamics. It’s a wonderful addition to any library collection.

“Little Shrew” by Akiko Miyakoshi is a beautifully illustrated and heartwarming tale that will charm young readers. The story follows a small but determined shrew on a big adventure, teaching valuable lessons about courage, perseverance, and self-discovery. Miyakoshi’s delicate illustrations perfectly capture the charm and emotion of the narrative, drawing readers into Little Shrew’s world. I highly recommend “Little Shrew” for its engaging story and stunning artwork. This book is an excellent choice for storytime, fostering a love for reading and appreciation for the delicate beauty found in nature and determination.

Learn about some of the creepiest nocturnal creatures in this sixth book in the nonfiction Level 2 Ready-to-Read series. This book explores fascinating and slightly icky creatures of the night, perfect for young readers who love a mix of gross and cool facts. The engaging text and vivid illustrations make learning about these nocturnal animals fun and accessible. I recommend “Super Gross Night Creatures” for its ability to introduce young readers to nonfiction text while building their reading skills and sparking curiosity.

This is author Jane Yolen’s fifth book in the hilarious Interrupting Cow series. This book is a level 2 in the Ready-To-Read series which includes longer sentences, simple chapters, and high interest vocabulary words. This charming story follows the interrupting cow as she helps a new friend find her flock. It’s a cute story of friendship and self-acceptance. Yolen’s engaging writing, filled with clever wordplay and light-hearted humor, makes it a perfect choice for young readers transitioning to independent reading. The illustrations complement the text beautifully, bringing the whimsical characters and their antics to life. I am a fan of the Ready-To Read series and I recommend this book for its entertaining story and its ability to encourage a love of reading in early readers.

“The Giants Go Camping” by Jane Yolen, with illustrations by Tomie DePaola, is a delightful and humorous story perfect for beginning readers. The book follows five friendly giants from Fe-Fi-Fo- Farm as they embark on a camping adventure as they encounter amusing mishaps along the way. 

Yolen’s engaging narrative is filled with playful language and fun situations that will keep readers giggling and eager to see what happens next. Tomie DePaola’s illustrations are a perfect match, bringing the giants and their antics to life with expressive details.

“The Giants Go Camping” would be a great addition to any library especially for beginning readers. It’s a wonderful book that encourages imagination and the joy of friendship.