2025 Starred Reviews Round-Up

Alberto Salas Plays Paka Paka con la Papa: Join the Quest with Peru’s Famed Scientist and Potato Expert by Sara Andrea Fajardo; illustrated by Juana Martinez-Neal

On Sale Now!

What can a potato do? To Peruvian scientist Alberto Salas, they have the power to change the world. Go on the hunt with Alberto for for wild potatoes before they go extinct in this playful picture book biography, gorgeously illustrated by Caldecott-honoree Juana Martinez-Neal.

★ FIVE STARRED REVIEWS! ★

★ “In a warm palette, Caldecott Honoree Martinez-Neal’s lush mixed-media illustrations convey Salas’s dedication and the potatoes as jewels hiding in an ever-shifting landscape. Fajardo (Crack Goes the Cascarón) smartly melds playful language with an urgent conservationist message…” –Publishers Weekly, starred review

★ “[A]n affable, often playful tone and a loose yet incredibly informative narrative peppered with words in Spanish and Quechua, Fajardo recounts the potato expert’s adventures in all their glory…” –Kirkus, starred review

★ “Thematic connections to environmentalism and sustainability in our changing modern world, told through a Latinx lens, this is a highly recommended title for all nonfiction collections.” –School Library Journal, starred review

★ “This tribute to a contemporary figure will no doubt strike a chord with young readers.” –BookPage, starred review

★”A lovely tribute to an unassuming yet impactful changemaker.” –Booklist, starred review

A Line Can Go Anywhere: The Brilliant, Resilient Life of Artist Ruth Asawa by Caroline McAlister; illustrated by Jamie Green

On Sale Now!

A sweeping picture book biography about influential Japanese-American sculptor Aiko Ruth Asawa and her childhood spent in an incarceration camp, by award-winning author Caroline McCallister and rising star artist Jamie Green.

★ FOUR STARRED REVIEWS! ★

★ “A title worth moving to the head of the line.” — Kirkus Reviews, starred review

★ “Remarkable justice is done to Asawa’s art through the thoughtful, intricate drawings.” — BCCB, starred review

★ “This unblinking and timely look at racism is also an inspiring, thought-provoking story.” — Booklist, starred review

★ “Thoughtful and well-researched.” — Horn Book Magazine, starred review

Whales in the City by Nancy F. Castaldo; illustrated by Chuck Groenink

On Sale Now!

For fans of If Sharks Disappeared, this kid-friendly picture book is a true story about how community action saved the whales of New York Harbor and reversed the effects of climate change.

★  “The heartening tale is accompanied by detailed watercolor illustrations that show snapshots of history and wonderfully underscore the majesty of whales, with their bulk taking up most of a city view sometimes, the huge animal underwater in the foreground and the relatively puny city behind…Environmental studies classrooms and school and public libraries will welcome this uplifting work.” —Booklist, starred review

Oshún and Me: A Story of Love and Braids by Adiba Nelson; illustrated by Alleanna Harris

On Sale Now!

Tenderly illustrated by Alleanna Harris, Adiba Nelson’s debut picture book Oshún and Me is a heartwarming ode to family, identity, and the beauty of braided hair. Also available in Spanish!

★  “Warm is the best description for Harris’ palette, which captures a wide range of sumptuous brown skin tones, illuminates everything from edge combs to mobility aids (Yadira uses a wheelchair and a walker), and fills each spread with radiant yellows. Complementing the art, Nelson’s text draws from deep cultural roots to enrich the everyday intimacy of wash day and fuel the sparks of community connection. … Pure, unadulterated joy.” —Kirkus Reviews, starred review

Short Dog, Long Dog: A Book of Opposites by Anna Hrachovec

On Sale Now!

A delightful way to introduce opposites to young readers from the author and creator who brought you Catside Up, Catside Down: A Book of Prepositions.

★ “The facial expressions capture both dogs’ essences: uptight and proper vs. goofy and mellow. The ending, where a knitted brown-skinned child cuddles with the pooches, ties up—or knits up—everything perfectly. Listeners and emergent readers alike will be enthralled from beginning to end. High entertainment from lowly antonyms.”—Kirkus, starred review

Revolutionary Mary: The True Story of One Woman, the Declaration of Independence, and America’s Fight for Freedom by Karen Blumenthal and Jen McCartney; illustrated by Elizabeth Baddeley

On Sale Now!

A bold picture book biography about Mary Katharine Goddard, the only woman whose name is printed on the Declaration of Independence, by award-winning authors Karen Blumenthal and Jen McCartney, and illustrated by Elizabeth Baddeley.

★ “An excellent purchase recommended to any library seeking to embolden readers of a new kind of revolutionary leader.” — School Library Journal, starred review

Wheetle by Cindy Derby

On Sale Now!

WALL-E meets THE RABBIT LISTENED in this tender picture book about a little wagon who learns to set his own boundaries, by Caldecott Honor-winning creator Cindy Derby.

★ “An empathetic, gorgeously wrought look at striking a balance between helping others and setting healthy boundaries.” — Kirkus Reviews, starred review

The Secret Life of a Sea Turtle by Maddalena Bearzi; illustrated by Alex Boersma

On Sale Now!

Follow the captivating yet perilous life of one sea turtle in this dazzling nonfiction tale by the co-founder of the Ocean Conservation Society, perfect for fans of Jason Chin’s ISLAND.

★ “Mesmerizing and insightful.” —Kirkus Reviews, starred review

We Are American, Too by Kristen Mei Chase; illustrated by Jieting Chen

On Sale June 10th!

An exquisitely illustrated and beautifully penned picture book about Asian American history, identity, and pride.

★ “A stunning story of family history and heritage, identity, and the power of protest, this is a highly recommended purchase for all collections.” —School Library Journal, starred review

The Camel Library: A True Story from Pakistan by Marzieh Abbas; illustrated by Anain Shaikh

On Sale August 19!

Alongside warm and soft illustrations by Anain Shaikh, Marzieh Abbas lovingly weaves the heartfelt true story of Pakistan’s first camel library, which reconnected Pakistani children to the light of books in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.

★ “Roshan’s naivete adds humor and creates an authentically childlike voice that engages young readers and makes it easy to follow the narrative…Shaikh’s digital illustrations show the contrast between Roshan’s ‘dull and dreary’ life before the pandemic and the joyful exuberance he helped to foster in the communities he served…This celebration of creativity and resilience is a first purchase for school and public libraries.” —School Library Journal, starred review

The Fig Tree by Costantia Manoli; illustrated by Leah Giles

On Sale June 17th!

In The Fig Tree, war separates two sides of an island, and a solitary tree brings together two children across the divide, in this touching picture book about peace, community, and forgiveness—written by award-winning author Costantia Manoli and illustrated by Leah Giles.

★ “The artwork is heartbreakingly beautiful, showing bright summer and the fig tree, soldiers on the ground and fires in buildings [. . .] while the writing is clear and detailed. A great narrative nonfiction [book] on a topic that is rarely discussed.” —School Library Journal, starred review

Rap It Up! by Carole Boston Weatherford and Jeffery Boston Weatherford; illustrated by Ernel Martinez

On Sale Now!

Aspiring young rappers will delight in this infectious, read-aloud introduction to the poetry and craft of rap.

★ “This cheery picture book is a knockout, delightful on many levels…The ultimate message—put in the work, because “The words you write are worth it”—comes through and will hopefully inspire aspiring rap artists.” —Booklist, starred review

When You Go to Dragon School by Chelsea M. Campbell; illustrated by Charlene Chua

On Sale Now!

Perfect for fans of Dragons Love Tacos and We Don’t Eat Our Classmates, this hilarious picture book is sure to become a favorite storytime read-aloud in every little reader’s library—human or dragon.

★ “This tale is told directly to readers in a second-person voice that is engaging and funny, easily finding a place among strong read-alouds and back-to-school books…Digitally created dragons will become friendly favorites as readers enjoy the mix of silliness and seriousness of going to dragon school. A must-purchase. This one will leave kids wanting more.” —School Library Journal, starred review

Scarecited on the First Day of School by Alliah L. Agostini; illustrated by Lala Watkins

On Sale Now!

For fans of School’s First Day of School, this is a picture book about a young girl who is feeling mixed emotions about her first day of school.

★ “Fun, humorous, and realistic, with a great representation of students and an emphasis on learning language in a fun manner, this book is a must-have for both libraries and classrooms…the next great read-aloud.” —School Library Journal, starred review

If I Could… by Matt Zurbo; illustrated by Patrice Barton

On Sale June 10th!

This tender, lyrical picture book is a celebration of imagination and the boundless love we have for our children, perfect for fans of I LOVE YOU TO THE MOON AND BACK and THE WONDERFUL THINGS YOU WILL BE.

★  “A tender praise song to the parents of growing children.” — Kirkus Reviews, starred review

Mama Moon by Noah Grigni

On Sale Now!

Deeply felt and beautifully told, Mama Moon is the story of a child who muses that their mother is like the moon—ever changing, sometimes blue, sometimes bright.

★  “A realistic, poignant, and affirming family portrait.”—Kirkus, starred review

Oasis by Guojing

On Sale Now!

Two children and one robot take center stage in this timely exploration of how far AI technology can go.

★ SEVEN STARRED REVIEWS! ★

★ “Soft lines and simple character designs by Guojing (The Only Child) emphasize JieJie and DiDi’s youthful vulnerability and optimism amid a somber landscape devastated by pollution and climate change. The delicate pencil shading evokes a powerful sense of tone and atmosphere, while large uncluttered panels inject a feeling of intimacy even in the vast desert. It’s an evocative and moving graphic novel tale of sacrifice and what it means to be a family.”–Publisher’s Weekly, starred review

★ “A thought-provoking, affecting allegory that reflects difficult realities yet is filled with love.” —Kirkus, starred review

★ “Subtle monochrome art in brilliantly paced, spare panels underscores the emotional depth of this compelling narrative. . .Perfectly blending story and art, this deeply compelling fable assures middle-grade readers that, with resilience, adaptability, and the hope for connection, love can prevail even amid desolation.” —Booklist, starred review

★ “The graphic novel format is expertly used here to build narrative movement through both text and illustrations, and panel size and shifts in perspective highlight key moments. . .While hope hovers at the edges of the story, the primary focus is love, turning inward toward it and nurturing it when the larger world feels impossibly grim.”–BCCB, starred review

★ “The story unfolds cinematically, with carefully orchestrated images capturing evocative facial expressions in dynamic exchanges between characters seeking refuge and familial reconciliation. Themes of struggling for survival, preserving family connections, embracing humanity, and cultivating love resonate throughout this endearing tale of perseverance marked by hope against all odds.” —Horn Book, starred review

★ “Oasis is a visually arresting, emotionally moving tale sure to resonate with readers drawn to stories about family in its many guises, as well as those compelled to contemplate the ways in which technology can pull us apart—or become a surprising catalyst for drawing us closer together.” —Book Page, starred review

★ “…Spectacular stunner that perfectly balances evocative art with minimal text…Guojing’s stunning sophomore graphic novel captures an unbreakable bond between children and their parent, despite separation and deprivation.”–Shelf Awareness, starred review

Malcolm Lives! by Dr. Ibram X. Kendi

On Sale Now!

National Book Award–winning and #1 New York Times–bestselling author Dr. Ibram X. Kendi brings a global icon to life in the first major biography of Malcolm X for young people in more than thirty years.

★ FOUR STARRED REVIEWS! ★

★ “An expansive and immersive biography…Connecting the activist’s life events with contemporary literature, politics, and society, the narrative accessibly highlights Malcolm’s complex journey toward learning how to stand up to what’s wrong. Even in oneself.” —Publishers Weekly, starred review

★ “The short, accessible chapters compellingly contextualize global issues, speaking directly to readers and breathing new life into a critically relevant historical figure…A humanizing, resoundingly effective portrait showcasing history as a blueprint for radical change.” —Kirkus Reviews, starred review

★ “This thoroughly researched, beautifully rendered portrait of a complex and pivotal figure is recommended as an essential purchase.” —School Library Journal, starred review

★ “This impressive offering is sure to become the definitive biography of Malcolm X and
belongs in most school and public libraries.” —Booklist, starred review

Chickenpox by Remy Lai

On Sale Now!

This hilarious and heartwarming contemporary middle-grade graphic novel is about eldest sister Abby, who is sick of being trapped at home with her FOUR younger siblings as they all suffer from the chickenpox—for fans of Guts and Allergic.

★ THREE STARRED REVIEWS! ★

★ “Honest, atmospheric, and full of heart.” —Kirkus, starred review

★ “Laughter about the Lai siblings’ antics will be as contagious as chickenpox was in the ’90s!” —BookPage, starred review

★ “Sidesplitting, pitch-perfect middle-grade graphic novel.” —Shelf Awareness, starred review

Dream On by Shannon Hale; illustrated by Marcela Cespedes

On Sale August 26!

Mega-bestselling graphic novel author Shannon Hale (Real Friends, Best Friends, and Friends Forever) is back with a new middle grade graphic novel about hope, friendship, and heartfelt wishes, perfect for fans of Invisible Emmie and Click.

★ TWO STARRED REVIEWS! ★

★ “Heartfelt and accessible: another winner from a beloved author.” —Kirkus, starred review

★ “Consider multiple copies of this one.” —Booklist, starred review

Gus and Glory by Sarah Guillory

On Sale Now!

Perfect for fans of WISH and BECAUSE OF WINN-DIXIE comes award-winning author Sarah Guillory’s latest middle grade tale of found family and the unshakable bond between a girl and her beloved dog.

★ TWO STARRED REVIEWS! ★

★ “A charming and moving novel that’s sure to tug at readers’ heartstrings.” — Kirkus Reviews, starred review

★ “In a heart-tugging and hopeful novel from Guillory, a rambunctious bloodhound bounding nose-first through life proves to be the glue that bonds a 12-year-old to biological and found families.” — Publishers Weekly, starred review

Ollie In Between by Jess Callans

On Sale Now!

In this modern take on Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret, debut writer Jess Callans delivers a tender, queer coming of age story about finding your voice and choosing to live authentically, even when it’s easier to blend in.

★ TWO STARRED REVIEWS! ★

★ “Clear echoes of Judy Blume…A range of readers should relate to Ollie’s sense of otherness. As Ollie puts it, ‘Being yourself can hurt,’ but awkward and self-aware stories like Ollie’s can help more tweens ‘just be.’“–Booklist, starred review

★ “Tackles the hard-hitting topics of neurodiversity, gender identity, and the powers of peer pressure...A vital read that celebrates the power of true authenticity, this is a must-buy for middle school collections.”–School Library Journal, starred review

The Sky Was My Blanket by Uri Shulevitz

On Sale August 19!

The final work from celebrated Caldecott Award–winning illustrator Uri Shulevitz, this gripping and revealing true story follows a young Polish exile fighting to survive in war-torn Europe.

★ TWO STARRED REVIEWS! ★

★ “In his final, posthumously published work, the late Caldecott Medalist tells the true story of his uncle’s travails in World War II–era Europe…Shulevitz’s ominous black-and-white sketches are interspersed throughout. Quietly potent and intensely empathetic.” —Kirkus Reviews, starred review

★ “In this stirring illustrated remembrance, late Caldecott Medalist Shulevitz chronicles his uncle Yehiel Szulewicz’s decision to leave his hometown of Zyrardów, Poland in the years before WWII…In precise, punctuated language, the author recounts everyday occurrences alongside moments of joyful self-discovery as Szulewicz forges his own path. Throughout, Shulevitz touches on historical events across Europe, their effect on the protagonist, and the youth’s own impact on the situations and people around him through the eyes of an adventurous wanderer who always followed his heart.” —Publishers Weekly, starred review

Earthrise: The Story of the Photograph That Changed the Way We See Our Planet by Leonard S. Marcus

On Sale Now!

From award-winning historian Leonard S. Marcus, Earthrise is a unique middle-grade nonfiction book about the astonishing photograph taken during the Apollo 8 mission that forever shifted the way we view ourselves and our planet.

★ TWO STARRED REVIEWS! ★

★ “The inspiring and dramatic story of how one of the most powerful photos of all time came to be . . . Provocative and thoughtful—rich in period details and timeless insights.” —Kirkus Reviews, starred reviews

★ “Very readable . . . A highly respected historian, writer, and speaker on children’s literature-related topics, Marcus, who grew up in the era discussed and understands its complex history, presents the Earthrise story with clarity and insight.” —Booklist, starred review

Tuck Everlasting: The Graphic Novel by Natalie Babbitt; adapted and illustrated by K. Woodman-Maynard

On Sale September 2nd!

Celebrate Tuck Everlasting’s 50th anniversary with the stunning graphic novel adaptation of this beloved and spellbinding children’s classic that has sold more than 10 million copies.

★ “This 50th-anniversary celebration of a literally timeless classic brings Babbitt’s novel to life in a graphic novel format. Sticking closely to the storyline as she visually fleshes out its themes and characters, Woodman-Maynard serves up a sensitive reworking that invites readers to think about what they would do if they were given the choice between a normal, finite life and an endless one…An homage navigated with confidence and care, as wise and wonderful as the original.” —Kirkus Reviews, starred review

Return to Sender by Vera Brosgol

On Sale Now!

Magic, mystery, and a marvelous mailbox take two kids on an incredible journey in this middle grade adventure novel from bestselling comics creator Vera Brosgol. Perfect for fans of Greenwild and The Lost Library and kids ready to move from graphic novels to novels.

★ “In her prose debut, Brosgol (Plain Jane and the Mermaid) employs a whimsical conceit to spin an unforgettable tale” —Publishers Weekly, starred review

Spark by Chris Baron

On Sale July 15th!

As a community recovers from a devastating wildfire, two friends find their way back to each other and their homes, by award-winning author Chris Baron. Perfect for fans of Alan Gratz and Lauren Tarshis.

★ “This stunning novel in verse shows the impact of climate change and wildfires, and the struggle of living on the border between the forest and urban areas…Baron balances the emotional weight of trauma by showing characters healing in a variety of ways. Returning wildlife serves as a promise of regrowth and possibility for a different kind of future. Beginning before the fires, continuing through evacuation, and including the season of rebuilding, Spark highlights the impact of wildfires alongside the importance of healing, all while nourishing the brightest spark of all, hope.” —Booklist, starred review

Mixed-Up by Kami Garcia; illustrated by Brittney Williams

On Sale Now!

New York Times bestselling author Kami Garcia has returned with a middle grade graphic novel about the struggles of a game-loving girl who gets diagnosed with dyslexia and her loving support network that help her along in the journey.

★ “A perfect book for younger readers who are fans of graphic novels like Smile, Allergic, and Four Eyes.” — Booklist, starred review

What Fell from the Sky by Adrianna Cuevas

On Sale Now!

From Pura Belpré Honoree and Edgar Award Winner Adrianna Cuevas comes an out-of-this-world middle grade adventure, based on true historical events, perfect for fans of The Goonies and Stranger Things.

★ “Historical realism blends with thrilling sci-fi to deliver a story that is as entertaining as it is thought-provoking.” —School Library Journal, starred review

Once for Yes by Allie Millington

On Sale Now!

From the author of the national bestseller, Olivetti, praised by Tom Hanks as “a great favor” for readers.

This heartfelt novel celebrates the healing power of community and the endurance of love, perfect for fans of Kate DiCamillo and Peter Brown.

★ “Offering no easy solutions, this is a well-crafted read with a tragedy at its heartbreaking center and a constellation of moving parts that draw readers into its uniquely human anti-gentrification story.”–Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books, starred review

Don’t Cause Trouble by Arree Chung

On Sale Now!

Twelve-year-old Ming Lee hopes middle school will be the fresh start he needs.

★ “Real life inspired Chung’s graphic novel debut, which uses vibrant, vivacious, full-color panels.”—Booklist, starred review

We Need to Talk About Divorce: An IMPORTANT book about Separation, Stepfamilies, and Feeling Heard by Kate Scharff, illustrated by Annika Le Large

On Sale Now!

A kid-centric guide for the children of parents going through a separation or divorce, written by internationally renowned divorce therapist Kate Scharff, MSW.

★ “While kids are the target audience, teens and even parents will find Scharff’s words of wisdom valuable. Optimistic, empathetic, and nuanced—in short, required reading for young people navigating divorce.” –Kirkus, starred review

Gabby Torres Gets a Billion Followers by Angela Dominguez

On Sale Now!

A new series that’s perfect for emerging readers who love graphic novels and are ready to read chapter books! Join Gabby as she navigates the inevitable disasters of fourth grade and social media.

★ “Early reader fans of Remy Lai and Colleen AF Venable should find a lot to love in this kind, comical, and optimistic series starter.” –Shelf Awareness, starred review

Vanya and the Wild Hunt by Sangu Mandanna

On Sale Now!

From the bestselling author of The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches comes an action-packed, enchanting middle grade fantasy about a neurodivergent heroine, a mysterious school, and a world of magical creatures. perfect for fans of Rick Riordan and Roshani Chokshi.

★ “A compelling blend of folklore and adventure that will appeal to fans of B. B. Alston’s Amari and the Night Brothers and Jessica Townsend’s Nevermoor, this is a beautiful, inclusive work that’s also a terrific story; highly recommended for middle grade collections.” – School Library Journal, starred review

Creature Clinic by Gavin Aung Than

On Sale Now!

Nurse, we’ve got a unicorn with a broken horn! Bring that healing potion—STAT!

Welcome to Creature Clinic, the world’s finest—and only—hospital for mythical beings. Here, everyone from trolls and unicorns to tooth fairies and giants can expect the very best treatment. Well, with one exception. Humans are absolutely, 100 percent not welcome.

★ “Tension between Kara and her demanding mother grounds the story in an engaging, two-sided drama that forms a satisfying thread through the chapters…Readers will check in, but they won’t want to leave this doctor’s appointment.” — Kirkus, starred review

Héroes de la esperanza por Margarita Engle; ilustrado por Juliet Menéndez; traducido por Alexis Romay and Inma Serrano

On Sale September 2nd!

En este libro que acompaña a ¡Bravo!, la hermosa poesía de Margarita Engle presenta a los jóvenes lectores a latinos menos conocidos de diversos orígenes que han demostrado una gran resiliencia. ¡Ahora disponible en español!

★ “The indomitable poet follows her Bravo!: Poems About Amazing Hispanics with another compendium of influential Latinx heroes…Engle’s stirring free verse and Menéndez’s striking hand-painted illustrations combine to create an unforgettable narrative…Beautiful in both text and artwork, this incredible title by a powerhouse team belongs on all nonfiction shelves.” —School Library Journal, starred review

Defanged by H.E. Edgmon

On Sale September 23rd!

To save the only life he’s ever known, a tween vampire has to destroy it first in Defanged, a new speculative middle grade from author H.E. Edgmon.

★ “Thoughtful details add realism to the vampires’ world, and the affection between quirky Lux and his compatriots brings fun and hope to a story that addresses serious, all-too-relevant issues…A clever, perceptive read that’s full of love for those who are different.” —Kirkus, starred review

Survival Scout: Lost at Sea by Maxwell Eaton III

On Sale Now!

When Scout is stranded on her sailboat, she’ll have to use everything she knows about how to survive at sea in the riveting third installment to the Survival Scout graphic novel series.

★ “Tackles every facet with intelligence, tact, and a little bit of humor. Every boat that sets sail could benefit from a copy of this book onboard.” —School Library Journal, starred review

Song of a Blackbird by Maria van Lieshout

On Sale Now!

This timely graphic novel weaves together two timelines to reveal how art, in the face of political upheaval and nearly insurmountable adversity, can become our greatest lifeline.

★ FIVE STARRED REVIEWS! ★

★ “Deeply compelling…while the story meaningfully evokes a specific historical situation, it could easily serve as a springboard for conversations around other stories of oppression, both contemporary and historical.” —Booklist, starred review

★ “This work will claim its place beside graphic novel classics such as Art Spiegelman’s Maus and Marjane Satrapi’s Persepolis. Powerful, moving, and utterly unforgettable.” —Kirkus, starred review

★ “A touching and tender graphic novel exploration of grief, family, and the vital importance of artistic expression.” —Publishers Weekly, starred review

★ “Though not for the faint of heart, this touching, gripping, and heartbreaking historical graphic novel doesn’t shy away from the dark sides of the true events it’s based on, while still offering a ray of hope for the genuine good out there.” —School Library Journal, starred review

★ “This deeply personal and poetic graphic novel illustrates the heroic actions of everyday Dutch people as they resisted the Nazi regime.” —Horn Book, starred review

Under the Same Stars by Libba Bray

On Sale Now!

From New York Times-bestselling author Libba Bray comes a propulsive historical mystery that examines truth, rebellion, reconciliation, and what must be sacrificed for a better world.

★ THREE STARRED REVIEWS! ★

★ “Immersive… Bray emphasizes how much we’re connected, offering a powerful depiction of transformative storytelling as an act of resistance and a harbinger of the future… a breathtaking journey that will leave a lasting impression on readers’ minds and hearts.” —Kirkus Reviews, starred review

 ★ “Masterful, heart-wrenching…Readers will come away motivated to be fully present, completely themselves, and to believe that courageous action matters. Because we all—past, present, and future—live under the same stars.” —Booklist, starred review

★ “Bray is no stranger to complex magic systems, developing here a magic that lies in the power of storytelling itself… A gripping and complex mystery that spans three timelines about storytelling, resistance, remorse, and reconciliation.” —Shelf Awareness, starred review

Right Beside You by Tucker Shaw

On Sale Now!

In this fresh, speculative blend of queer romance and coming-of-age, Eddie meets Theo in present-day New York and Francis in a New York of the past… torn between eras and his heart, he must make a decision that will change his life forever.

★ THREE STARRED REVIEWS! ★

★ “This is a brilliant affirmation of the power of love on so many levels, with a wide range of appeal.” —Booklist, starred review

★ “Deeply moving and thoroughly engrossing.” —Kirkus, starred review

★ “This book is historical fiction. . .but the frank, personable writing style circumvents many of the challenges the genre often has in generating teen appeal. . . an invaluable addition to a genre that has largely excluded this piece of history.” —School Library Journal, starred review

His Mortal Demise by Vanessa Le

On Sale Now!

These Violent Delights meets Divine Rivals in the explosive finale to The Last Bloodcarver duology — with a riveting medical magic system and lush Vietnam-inspired romantasy world.

★ TWO STARRED REVIEWS! ★

★ “Engrossing, moving, and intricately detailed.” — Kirkus Reviews, starred review

★ “Sharp and satisfying, this duology belongs in all….collections.” — School Library Journal, starred review

Biology Lessons by Melissa Kantor

On Sale Now!

Biology Lessons is a heartfelt and profound contemporary young adult novel about the strength and importance of female friendship in a time when bodily autonomy is outlawed, from acclaimed author Melissa Kantor.

★ TWO STARRED REVIEWS! ★

★ “A moving story . . . a nuanced take on teen pregnancy, one that could be rightly read as an update to the familiar YA problem novel. The book manages to highlight the personal without excluding the political and favors truthful pain over tragic histrionics, ultimately allowing a big, bright, and complicated future for its main character. . . This is a book that Judy Blume would approve of, where a girl is allowed to imagine a future where her abortion isn’t the most important moment of her life.” —BCCB, starred review

★ “This unfiltered glance at the realities of a post-Roe era strikes the perfect balance between storytelling and sharing information, all without casting judgment” —Booklist, starred review

Up in Smoke by Nick Brooks

On Sale Now!

A girl determined to clear her brother’s name. A boy determined to keep his out of the line of fire. A secret smoldering between them. This edge-of-your-seat mystery from the author of Promise Boys is perfect for fans of Karen McManus and The Hate U Give.

★ TWO STARRED REVIEWS! ★

★ “A thrilling, heart-racing mystery with a page-turning budding romance at its center.” —Kirkus, starred review

★ “Fabulous.” —School Library Journal, starred review

The House No One Sees by Adina King

On Sale Now!

Penelope Ross has always felt like a passenger in her mother’s fairytale – until the night of her 17th birthday, when she is forced to enter her own.

★ TWO STARRED REVIEWS! ★

★ “This heartbreaking work will resonate deeply with fans of A.S. King and Amber McBride…Raw, gripping, and heart-wrenching.” —Kirkus, starred review

★ “A gut-wrenching and powerful kaleidoscope of a story; for fans of A.S. King, Ellen ­Hopkins, and ­Kathleen Glasgow.” –School Library Journal, starred review

Lovely Dark and Deep by Elisa A. Bonnin

On Sale Now!

From author Elisa A. Bonnin comes Lovely Dark and Deep, a YA dark academia novel exploring magic, loneliness, and the power of found family.

★ TWO STARRED REVIEWS! ★

★ “A strong entry point into dark academia fantasy, recommended for all libraries serving YA readers” —School Library Journal, starred review

★ “Careful attention to character, colonialist history, and explorations of how magic interacts with neurodiversity and gender identity bring welcome complexity to a familiar outsider-goes-to-magic-school premise, making this a truly thoughtful, engaging reflection on the dark academia genre.” —BCCB, starred review

Holy Terrors by Margaret Owen

On Sale Now!

It’s been nearly two years since Vanja brought down the cult she started, and she’s still paying the price. As the Pfennigeist, she bucks the law in order to help the desperate and haunt the corrupt all across the empire—and no matter what, she works alone.

★ TWO STARRED REVIEWS! ★

★ “Owen’s writing will make readers laugh and cry within a single sentence, painting heartfelt nuance onto an intricate plot three books in the making. A tour de force trilogy for all collections. This final installment of the Little Thieves trilogy makes every page count as Vanja’s character arc comes to a close, grappling with forgiveness and restitution.”—School Library Journal, starred review

★ “…Owen unfurls a narrative that grapples with the limitations and obligations of power. Incisive social commentary, lush worldbuilding, some truly gorgeous turns of phrase, and evocative spot art from the author help bring this work to vivid life, but as with the earlier installments, its true beating heart lies in its characters.”—Kirkus Reviews, starred review

Rebis by Irene Marchesini; illustrated by Carlotta Dicataldo; translated by Carla Roncalli Di Montorio

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For fans of Nimona and Snapdragon comes an exquisitely drawn medieval story about the friendship between a runaway child and a mysterious witch.

★ TWO STARRED REVIEWS! ★

★ “This breathtaking coming-of-age tale encapsulates queer and feminine experiences that will resonate with teen readers looking for a sense of belonging in the world. A captivating and empathetic pick for fans of historical fantasy.” —Booklist, starred review

★ “Lush, evocative illustrations draw readers effortlessly into this world of pain, retribution, magic, kinship, and love.” —Kirkus, starred review

Coffeeshop in an Alternate Universe by C.B. Lee

On Sale July 1st!

A geeky overachiever determined to save the world through science and a troublemaking chosen one lashing out against her destiny meet and fall in love in a magical coffeeshop as their two very different universes begin to collide in Coffeeshop in an Alternate Universe, C.B. Lee’s fun, sapphic, cozy fantasy YA romance.

★ TWO STARRED REVIEWS! ★

★ “Epic world-saving plotting mixes with intimate star-crossed love and touches of magic and mischief, making for a satisfying and cozy read.” —Publishers Weekly, starred review

★ “Told in alternating POV chapters, Lee’s latest is a delight…This sapphic romance manages to be sweet, tender, and high-stakes all at the same time—a true triple threat.” —Booklist, starred review

You and Me on Repeat by Mary Shyne

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In this debut rom-com graphic novel, two former friends are trapped in a time loop together, repeating their high school graduation day over and over and over—for fans of Laura Dean Keeps Breaking Up With Me, Pumpkinheads, and Groundhog Day.

★ “…a cleverly executed graphic novel debut that successfully innovates the time loop meta.” —Publishers Weekly, starred review

The Garden Just Beyond by Lindsey Leavitt

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For fourteen-year-old Magnolia Gartner, nothing is more important than tradition, and the most important traditions in her eccentric family are the magical dinner parties they’ve been hosting for generations.

★ “In this page-turning story, Leavitt adroitly balances comedic and poignant elements, classical allusions, and contemporary diversions. . .Richly detailed and imagined; will invite repeat visits to harvest all the delights.”–Kirkus, starred review

And They Were Roommates by Page Powars

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A hilarious, unputdownable second-chance-romance about the most unlikely, gay roommate mishap. Perfect for fans of Casey McQuiston and Gwen & Art Are Not in Love.

★ “The dynamic between the roommates sizzles with electricity and tension…[A] vibrant love letter to trans readers.” —Booklist, starred review