Staff Picks – January 2024

“THE GIRL WHO SANG is a must-have in library and classroom collections. Estelle Nadel—then known as Enia Feld—was only seven years old in 1939 when the Nazis invaded her village. Before the war, Estelle was an energetic child who loved to sing to everyone. After the invasion, she was forced to hide in a neighbor’s cramped attic for years during the war, where she ultimately lost her voice and even her ability to walk. When the war was over and she was finally free, Estelle would have to learn how to walk, and, eventually, how to sing all over again. THE GIRL WHO SANG is an inspirational story about the power of love, the kindness and empathy of strangers, finding hope during the darkest moments, and rediscovering your voice after enduring the unimaginable. Illustrator Sammy Savos has taken exceptional care with Estelle’s story. Her stunning illustrations add another emotional layer and honor Estelle’s unforgettable narrative.“
– Alexandra Quill, Senior Marketing Manager

Coyote Lost and Found
By Dan Gemeinhart
On Sale March 5th
Ages 9-12

“Coyote Lost and Found has all the beatpoints I’m looking for, really. I love a story about a road trip with your best friend. I love a used bookstore. And of course, Dan Gemeinhart is so good at cozy settings and writing about what it feels like to be known, seen, and supported. Reading about relationships where the characters keep on loving each other despite flaws and mess-ups is important for all readers.

Coyote’s just discovered her mom’s ashes in a suitcase when her father decides he’s ready to scatter them. Coyote feels like she’s just found her again and isn’t ready to let her go, but all that’s hard to say to your dad when you get choked up and don’t want to sound like a little kid. Only, it’s never childish to keep grieving in whatever timeline feels right. So with a few more companions, Coyote and Rodeo pack up the bus and hit the road with only one real destination in mind–to find out where mom wanted her ashes scattered. Before they reach the end, Coyote learns more about grace and friendship and being human.”
– Elysse Villalobos, Associate Marketing Manger

The Flicker
By H.E. Edgmon
On Sale September 24th
Ages 8-12

“THE FLICKER is a riveting, thought-provoking book. H.E. Edgmon infuses so much hope into a very bleak version of our future. I’m so blown away by the way he has crafted a book that is at once unflinching when it comes to the damage we are doing to the Earth and the repercussions our youth will face as a result but yet at the same time leaves readers with the reassurance that at our core, we are good, resilient, and here for each other across generations.”
– Mary Van Akin, Director of School & Library Marketing

The Well
By Jake Wyatt; illustrated by Choo
On Sale Now
Ages 14-18

“THE WELL is a quick fast-paced graphic novel that will make a great addition to any library. In this breathtaking graphic novel, Jake Wyatt and Choo have created a modern fable based on magic and family secrets, exploring the power—and limits—of wishes. Lizzy is just trying to live her life and help her Ah-Gong out by selling goat cheese and goats. When one outing causes Lizzy’s life fall apart when she recklessly takes some coins from a wishing well. Lizzy is now forced to right her wrongs or become a minion to the well’s magic. With four starred reviews filled with clever twists and turns readers won’t be able to put down this great fantasy graphic novel!”
– Grace Tyler, Marketing Assistant