2024 Starred Reviews Round-Up

2024 Starred Reviews Round-Up

2024 Starred Reviews

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.

Picture BooksMiddle Grade BooksYoung Adult BooksAdult Books Crossover
Cesaria Feels the Beat

Cesaria Feels the Beat by Denise Rosario Adusei; illustrated by Priscila Soares

On Sale Now!

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

 “A lovely book about a child who experiences the world in an atypical way that readers will readily understand.” —Booklist, starred review

 “Invites everyone into a celebration of dance, life, and being true to oneself.School Library Journal, starred review

 “A Deaf child performer self-advocates in this triumphant Carnival-set work.” —Publishers Weekly, starred review


The Yellow Bus

The Yellow Bus by Loren Long

On Sale Now!

Perfect for fans of Love and Hello, LighthouseThe 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.

 “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

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 Reviewsstarred 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

Bye Land, Bye Sea by René Spencer and Rodolfo Montalvo; illustrated by Rodolfo Montalvo

On Sale Now!

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 Reviewsstarred review

“Text and artwork together create a sense of an adventurous dream, making this a perfect fit for a bedtime story or lapsit.” —BCCBstarred 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

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.” —BCCBstarred 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.” —Bookliststarred 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 Reviewsstarred review


Coretta: The Autobiography of Mrs. Coretta Scott King by Coretta Scott King; illustrated by Ekua Holmes

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 Reviewsstarred 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


Three little 1

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 Weeklystarred review


When you have to wait

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 Reviewsstarred 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 Weeklystarred review


Sour Apple

Sour Apple by Linda Liu

On Sale Now!

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 Journalstarred review


How to Pee Your Pants (The Right Way)

How to Pee Your Pants (The Right Way) by Rachel Michelle Wilson

On Sale October 15, 2024!

Don’t miss this humorous and heartwarming picture book by debut creator Rachel Michelle Wilson about that embarrassing moment in life when you (gasp) pee your pants.

“Wilson’s witty, kindly tone will resonate with readers of preschool age and beyond.” —Kirkus, starred review


Emma Full of Wonder

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

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 Reviewsstarred review


The fish of small

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

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 ColorSaturday, 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 Journalstarred review


Memory Garden

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 Journalstarred review


You're Going to Love This Book!

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 Journalstarred review


A Map for Falasteen

A Map for Falasteen by Maysa Odeh; illustrated by Aliaa Betawi

On Sale October 22, 2024!

A young Palestinian girl living in diaspora struggles to find her homeland on a map in this gentle and heartfelt picture book.

“[A Map for Falasteen] fills a gap in representations of the Palestinian diaspora, offering a much-needed insider’s perspective. . . . A haunting, powerful, and crucial tale of culture and identity.” —Kirkusstarred review


Dive!

Dive! by Chris Gall

On Sale Now!

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


Plain Jane and the Mermaid

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 Journalstarred review

A funny and fast-paced feminist adventure masterfully told through the comics medium.” –Horn Book Magazinestarred 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


What Is Color?

What Is Color? by Steven Weinberg

On Sale August 20, 2024!

In this zany and vibrantly illustrated nonfiction guide to all things color, the origins of today’s pigments come alive across continents and history, with oodles of art, tons of science—and extensive interactive backmatter!

★ THREE STARRED REVIEWS! ★

A delightfully meandering journey that gives new meaning to ‘color commentary.’ . . . This thorough, fanciful work explores the technology and global nuances of eight colors.” —Publishers Weekly, starred review

This imaginative combination of art and text is a must-purchase.—School Library Journal, starred review

“This accessible, fun, and enlightening selection makes a perfect addition for brightening up school and public library STEAM collections.” —Booklist, starred review


The Girl Who Sang by Estelle Nadel and Bethany Strout; illustrated by Sammy Savos

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 Reviewsstarred 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 Journalstarred review


The Sixth Extinction (young readers adaptation)

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


DnDooges

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 Reviewsstarred 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

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 Journalstarred review


Olivetti

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 magazinestarred 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 Journalstarred review


three-summers

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 Journalstarred 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

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


The Flicker

The Flicker by H.E. Edgmon

On Sale September 24, 2024!

Perfect for fans of The Marrow ThievesHatchet and The City of Ember, H.E. Edgmon’s middle grade debut offers a bittersweet tale of hope and survival, a modern classic for the climate change generation.

★ TWO STARRED REVIEWS! ★

Edgmon’s middle grade debut is a dystopian, anti-capitalist, Indigenous, gender nonconforming love letter to tweens” —School Library Journalstarred review

“Incisive worldbuilding surrounding the climate collapse makes this middle grade debut a simultaneously cautionary tale and dystopian adventure in which Edgmon showcases the unflagging power of community in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds.” —Publisher’s Weeklystarred review


Weirdo

Weirdo by Tony Weaver, Jr.; illustrated by Jes & Cin Wibowo

On Sale September 17, 2024!

From rising star Tony Weaver, Jr. comes a middle-grade graphic novel memoir about an awkward preteen who loves all things geeky but struggles with mental health issues and self-doubt, perfect for fans of Jerry Craft’s New Kid.

★ TWO STARRED REVIEWS! ★

Fans of Jerry Craft and Jarrett Kroscozka will appreciate this honest, hopeful portrayal of recovery from even the darkest places. Readers will also enjoy spotting the many anime and gaming references.” —Kirkusstarred review

A touching story of belonging, in which Weaver realistically depicts the many small steps required to becoming one’s own hero.” —Publisher’s Weeklystarred review


Mountain of Fire

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.” —Bookliststarred review

Rock-solid history and science, high-octane action, and vivid descriptions—the book will inspire as much as it entertains.” —Kirkusstarred review


Read at Your Own Risk

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.” —Kirkusstarred review


Tiffany’s Griffon

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.” —Kirkusstarred review


Uprooted

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.” —Kirkusstarred review


Kwame Crashes the Underworld

Kwame Crashes the Underworld by Craig Kofi Farmer

On Sale September 10, 2024!

Discover a stunning middle grade fantasy about a boy hurled into the Ghanaian underworld to help his grandmother save humanity, perfect for fans of Tristan Strong and Amari and the Night Brothers.

“Debut author Farmer tells a grand tale, funny and terrifying in turns, steeped in Ghanaian spirituality and folklore, and wrapped around themes of identity, obligation, true friendship, and devastating loss.” —Kirkus Reviews, starred review


Wildflower Emily

Wildflower Emily by Lydia Corry

On Sale October 15, 2024!

Emily Dickinson is one of America’s greatest and most original poets of all time. When you hear her name, you may imagine the famous recluse whose withdrawal from society became legendary. But it’s time to meet a new side of Emily, one that is powerful, adventurous, and joyful.

“Corry’s delight in illustrating botanical imagery with soothing colors and rich textures shines through in every step Emily takes and every specimen she observes. A deeply satisfying, accessible illumination of the green world that inspired Dickinson’s intriguing, intimate poems.” —Kirkus, starred review


Monster Locker

Monster Locker by Jorge Aguirre; illustrated by Andrés Vera Martínez

On Sale October 1, 2024!

In this first volume of a thrilling middle grade graphic novel series, a sixth-grader named Pablo discovers his locker is a portal to the realm of monsters!

“Centered on an amusing premise, this tale of ancient monsters and one very irate goddess serves up heaps of goofy humor thanks to its reluctant, pint-size Latine hero, comically antagonistic baddies, and frequent breaking of the fourth wall. A rich cast of culturally diverse characters, seamlessly inserted social commentary, and bustling, snappy artwork contribute greatly to a briskly paced adventure that teases a sequel.” —Kirkus Reviews, starred review


Onyx & Beyond

Onyx & Beyond by Amber McBride

On Sale October 1, 2024!

Award-winning author Amber McBride explores being young and Black in America in this middle-grade novel about a boy dealing with his mother’s descent into early-onset dementia, set amid the Civil Rights movement of the 1960s.

“As readers follow Onyx in his endeavors to help his mother, they’re also given a glimpse into being a young Black boy who, for all his troubles in life, has just as many joyful moments with his family and friends. A story of perseverance and love.” —Kirkus Reviews, starred review


Power to the Parasites!

Power to the Parasites! by Chelsea L. Wood; illustrated by Dave Mottram

On Sale November 12, 2024!

Power to the Parasites! lets you in on a secret: Parasites are all around you, all the time, quietly running the world. You might think of them as slimy, disgusting freeloaders – tapeworms and roundworms and ticks and lice, too small to be important and too selfish to be valued. But by the end of this book, you’ll realize that sometimes parasites are the good guys.

An eye-opening, as well as stomach-churning, angle on who’s really the boss in the natural world.” —Kirkus, starred review


The Spindle of Fate

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

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 Reviewsstarred review


Detective Sweet Pea: The Case of the Golden Bone

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 Reviewsstarred review


Asguardians: Odin by George O'Connor

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 Reviewsstarred review


Maybe It’s a Sign

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 Awarenessstarred review


Slouch

Slouch by Christina Wyman

On Sale October 22, 2024!

The highly anticipated, standalone follow-up to the USA Today bestseller Jawbreaker, this funny, fresh, and incredibly relatable middle-grade novel is about a tall girl navigating friends, family, self-esteem, and boundaries—perfect for fans of Raina Telgemeier.

“This fresh, heartfelt slam dunk from Wyman entwines enthralling details about debate into a story that probes financial precarity and adolescent insecurity. Whip-smart prose and potent middle school drama keep the pages turning, but it’s the accessible conversation about bodily autonomy, consent, privacy, and social media’s influence that make this a standout read.” —Publishers Weeklystarred review


Greenwild: The City Beyond the Sea

Greenwild: The City Beyond the Sea by Pari Thomson

On Sale Now!

Daisy Thistledown’s epic adventure continues in the spellbinding sequel to the New York Times bestseller Greenwild, which A.F. Steadman (bestselling author of Skandar and the Unicorn Thief) praised as “Phenomenal . . . If you don’t believe in magic, you will after you’ve read Greenwild.”

“Full of love and sacrifice, plot twists, and heart-pounding pacing, this will have readers entirely ready to dive into the depths of the sea with Daisy and company, and they’ll eagerly anticipate what lies ahead in this spellbinding world.” —Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Booksstarred review


Outdoor School: Gardening

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 Reviewsstarred review


Continental Drifter

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 Reviewsstarred review


Survival of the Fittest

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 Reviewsstarred review


Kid-ventors

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 Journalstarred review


Queens of the Jungle

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 Reviewsstarred review


Lunar New Year love Story

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 Reviewsstarred 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.” —Bookliststarred 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 Bookstarred 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 Weeklystarred 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.” —BCCBstarred 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.” —Bookpagestarred review


Ash’s Cabin

Ash’s Cabin by Jen Wang

On Sale Now!

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.

★ SEVEN STARRED REVIEWS! ★

“Wang, who has given readers drag queen princes and medical dramas, has developed a story that is adventurous, sensitive, and realistic. Readers of graphic novels, queer fiction, nonfiction, and wilderness stories should all find something to adore here.” —Shelf Awarenessstarred review

Beautiful, complex and affirming, Ash’s Cabin will prompt deep conversations about how best to support one another and our environment, at a time when the future is uncertain and peace can be hard to find.”
BookPagestarred review

“Wang communicates with breathless tension the high stakes of solo survival in the Californian wilderness, from foraging mistakes and luckless-to-terrifying altercations with wildlife to big-picture issues of climate crisis that hang like wildfire smoke over the narrative.” —BCCB, starred review

Perfection—literary and artistic—awaits here.” —Bookliststarred 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 Weeklystarred 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.” —Kirkusstarred review

This book is a page-turner and readers will both worry and cheer for Ash every step of the way. Highly recommended for all middle school and high school libraries.” —School Library Journalstarred review


The Last Bloodcarver by Vanessa Le

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 Reviewsstarred 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 Weeklystarred review

Deeply romantic, and darkly biological.” —Booklist, starred review

All collections will benefit from this unequivocal first purchase.” —School Library Journal, starred review


Song of the Six Realms

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.

“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 tearjerkerFantasy 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.” —BookPagestarred 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

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-2

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 Journalstarred review

Pristine artwork and a witty, nuanced story make this an unforgettable reading experience.” —Bookliststarred 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 Reviewsstarred review


Crashing into You

Crashing into You by Rocky Callen

On Sale Now!

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.

“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.” —Bookliststarred review

This ­novel should hold an ­important place in teen l­ibraries.” —School Library Journalstarred review


With Love, Miss Americanah

With Love, Miss Americanah by Jane Igharo

On Sale Now!

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


Tempest of tea

A Tempest of Tea by Hafsah Faizal

On Sale Now!

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 Reviewsstarred 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

Dear Wendy by Ann Zhao

On Sale Now!

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 Weeklystarred 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.” —Bookliststarred review


where-sleeping-girls-lie-1

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.

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

Whose Right Is It? The Fourteenth Amendment and the Fight for Equality by Hana Bajramovic

On Sale Now!

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.” —Bookliststarred review

“This tale of legal topsy-turvy perfectly portrays how our laws can remain unchanged yet be interpreted differently as legal theory and courts change. Back matter includes an index, bibliography, and source notes. Hand this exceptional overview to future constitutional law students.” —School Library Journal, starred review


Flamboyants

Flamboyants: The Queer Harlem Renaissance I Wish I’d Known by George M. Johnson; illustrated by Charly Palmer

On Sale Now!

From the New York Times–bestselling author of All Boys Aren’t Blue comes an empowering set of essays about Black and Queer icons from the Harlem Renaissance.

“Johnson (All Boys Aren’t Blue) combines incisive prose commentary, skewering verse, and revealing memoir in this collection of abridged biographies of Harlem Renaissance–era Black queer luminaries…. Palmer (The Legend of Gravity) combines background textures resembling subway maps and skyscrapers with canvas portraiture to produce graphic and hyperrealistic imagery that harkens to the Harlem Renaissance while maintaining contemporary appeal.” —Publishers Weekly, starred review


Portrait of a Shadow

Portrait of a Shadow by Meriam Metoui

On Sale Now!

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 Reviewsstarred review


Youth Group

Youth Group by Jordan Morris; illustrated by Bowen McCurdy

On Sale Now!

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.” —Bookliststarred review


The Great Cool Ranch Dorito in the Sky

The Great Cool Ranch Dorito in the Sky by Josh Galarza

On Sale Now!

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


Tangleroot

Tangleroot by Kalela Williams

On Sale October 15, 2024!

In this debut novel, chosen by booksellers as an Indies Introduce selection, a girl must face hard truths about blood and family, history and mystery.

“Each well-chosen detail Williams includes of Noni’s daily life, quest for autonomy, and search for answers is essential to this coming-of-age story. Racism, past and present, adds palpable tension as Noni brings her family’s true history to light and reckons with her own sense of identity. A gripping and heartbreaking debut.” —Kirkus, starred review


Killer House Party

Killer House Party by Lily Anderson

On Sale October 1, 2024!

From Printz Honor winning author Lily Anderson comes a young adult horror that follows Arden and her friends as their graduation party at an abandoned mansion turns into a bloody fight for survival.

“In her latest, Anderson revamps the haunted house narrative while weaving in complex characters whose bonds and hope for the future can save them all. Vivid descriptions contribute to the palpable suspense as the pace builds and the stakes rise. A hauntingly beautiful take on a classic horror story that will leave readers’ skin crawling in the best way possible.” —Kirkus, starred review


Under the Heron's Light

Under the Heron’s Light by Randi Pink

On Sale October 15, 2024!

Inspired by stories about the real-world Great Dismal Swamp, this dual POV Young Adult fantasy by Randi Pink explores alternate history, a family’s supernatural connections to the swamp, and the strength that comes in knowing your roots.

“Poetic language, lush descriptions, and characters so conflicted and nuanced as to feel real anchor the magical elements, while the cousins untangle centuries of heartbreaks and horrors inflicted by cruel white enslavers to learn where they came from and the gifts they’ve inherited. A fierce, loving, and exquisite humanity-centered book.” —Kirkus, starred review


The Sweetness Between Us

The Sweetness Between Us by Sarah Winifred Searle

On Sale October 22, 2024!

From the creator of The Greatest Thing, a new YA graphic novel about a boy dealing with a chronic illness who finds a new friend in a vampire classmate, perfect for fans of Vampire Academy.

Searle (Ruined) delivers a stunning graphic novel romance with a thoughtful supernatural spin. Soft lines and muted colors convey Perley and Amadine’s gentle yearning for each other and their longing for a sense of normalcy and equilibrium; this empathetic and expressive style extends to the characters’ dialogue.” —Publishers Weekly, starred review


Visitations

Visitations by Corey Egbert

On Sale November 19, 2024!

Inspired by true events, this haunting yet hopeful young adult graphic novel weaves together family dynamics, mental illness, and religion—perfect for fans of Hey, Kiddo.

“The emotional truth of this narrative rings out on every page. The artwork enhances readers’ understanding of Corey’s confusion about religion, sexuality, family dynamics, and his own memories, drawing the audience toward sympathy and understanding . . . Nuanced and real; impressive and valuable.” —Kirkus, starred review


Celestial Monsters

Celestial Monsters by Aiden Thomas

On Sale September 3, 2024!

New York Times-bestselling author Aiden Thomas returns to the beloved world of The Sunbearer Trials in Celestial Monsters, a heart-stopping duology finale, in which Teo, Aurelio, and Niya must battle the Obsidian gods in order to return Sol to the sky.

A stunning, action-packed sequel filled with heart and a cast readers will wish to stay with long after they’ve put the book down.” —Booklist, starred review


Eighteen Roses

Eighteen Roses by Shannon C. F. Rogers

On Sale Now!

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

Hurdles in the Dark: My Story of Survival, Resilience, and Triumph by Elvira K. Gonzalez

On Sale Now!

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 Awarenessstarred review


Flawless Girls

Flawless Girls by Anna-Marie McLemore

On Sale Now!

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


Stolen Fates

For the Stolen Fates by Gwendolyn Clare

On Sale Now!

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 Reviewsstarred review


Most Ardently: A Pride & Prejudice Remix

Most Ardently: A Pride & Prejudice Remix by Gabe Cole Novoa

On Sale Now!

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 Journalstarred review


Just Say Yes

Just Say Yes by Goldy Moldavsky

On Sale Now!

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!

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

Daughter of the Bone Forest by Jasmine Skye

On Sale Now!

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

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

Karate Prom by Kyle Starks

On Sale Now!

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

I Wish You Would by Eva Des Lauriers

On Sale Now!

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.” —Bookliststarred review


Maelstrom: A Prince of Evil

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.” —Kirkusstarred review