Read below to find our staff picks for November 2024 and learn more about these must-reads!
Song of a Blackbird
By Maria van Lieshout
On Sale January 21st!
Ages 14-18
“Song of a Blackbird is a category defier and an unforgettable graphic novel debut. Maria van Lieshout presents an astonishing dual narrative intertwining the lives of two girls across different eras in Amsterdam. The book is narrated by an omniscient blackbird, alternating between Annick in 2011 searching for the truth in her grandmother’s past, and Emma during the Nazi occupation in 1943, finding hope in aiding others. The already incredibly compelling story is amplified by striking illustrations that blend color with black-and-white archival photographs that contrast the two time periods to amazing effect. As Annick uncovers the mystery of her grandmother’s heritage, the reader is invited into an understanding of the power of art in facing historical atrocities. This book stayed with me long after the final page.” – Mary Van Akin, Director of School & Library Marketing
Stay Angry, Little Girl
By Madeleine L’Engle; illustrated by Michelle Jing Chan
On Sale Now
Ages 3-5
“Stay Angry, Little Girl is an empowering picture book that encourages young girls to embrace their true selves unapologetically. Inspired by a beloved quote from Madeleine L’Engle’s classic, A Wrinkle in Time, this book invites girls to acknowledge their emotions, even the negative ones. It emphasizes that these feelings are valid and meaningful, and embracing them can lead to significant change. This book is a must-have addition to any social-emotional learning collection!” – Grace Tyler, Marketing Assistant
The Sunflowers: Vincent van Gogh’s Search for Beauty
By Zahra Marwan
On Sale Now
Ages 4-8
“There are plenty of picture books about Vincent van Gogh, but Zahra Marwan’s The Sunflowers captures something truly special. From delicate almond blossoms to sweeping swathes of night skies, Marwan’s illustrations welcome young readers into Vincent’s world, giving depth and dimension to his work as well as his life. To the more experienced artistic eye, The Sunflowers doubles as a subtle introduction to Van Gogh’s infamous paintings, which makes this vibrant picture book an especially perfect pick for art classrooms, children’s museums, and families eager to encourage the creative spirit. Artwork aside, the core themes of this story center around a tender, timeless message: we are not alone. The Sunflowers reminds readers that when you water the seeds of meaningful friendships, something beautiful is sure to bloom.” – Mikayla Buhbe, MCPG Intern
How To Pee Your Pants (The Right Way)
By Rachel Michelle Wilson
On Sale Now
Ages 3-5
“Yes, this is a picture book about peeing your pants – and about how to handle it when you do. It’s a funny, warm, normalizing take on a specific experience that any preschool teacher will tell you is extremely common. And the tips offered to young readers – among them ‘create a distraction,’ ‘hide the evidence,’ and ‘find a sympathetic friend’ create a great primer for how to handle just about ANY embarrassing situation, at any age.” – Molly Ellis, VP, Executive Director of Publicity
