LibGuides: Children's Virtual New Book Shelf: New Fiction April 2023

A Unicorn, a Dinosaur, and a Shark Walk into a Book by Jonathan Fenske (Illustrator) From the comedic mind of Jonathan Fenske, Theodor Seuss Geisel Honor-winning creator of A Pig, a Fox, and a Box, comes a hilarious picture book about what happens when a unicorn, a dinosaur, and a shark "walk" into a book. Fenske's appealing illustration style and clever text make this intriguing book a must-have for every young reader's shelf. Absurdity abounds in this funny picture book that tries to tell the tale of a unicorn, a dinosaur, and a shark.   While the narrator insists that the characters are in the best book ever, they are all less than impressed, and won't cooperate with the storyteller's cues. Can the narrator find a way to convince them to stick around, or will the creatures choose to skedaddle off the page?    Perfect for fans of The Book with No Pictures and Kevin the Unicorn: It's Not All Rainbows!

At the Drop of a Cat by Elise Fontenaille; Violeta Lopiz (Illustrator); Karin Snelson (Translator) With lush art by NYT Best Illustrated recipient Violeta Lópiz, a picture book about a boy and his larger-than-life immigrant grandfather, who shares with him the kind of learning that's not taught in classrooms. At six years old, the child-narrator of this picture book loves nothing more than spending time with his grandpa, Luis--especially in his marvelous garden, where green beans reach as high as the sky. Luis's garden is where the little boy practices reading and writing. But just as importantly, it's also where he learns wonderful things from Luis, like the names of all the birds in the trees and new expressions that are so much fun to say. Luis's playful vocabulary is as vibrant and full of life as his garden, and phrases that are particular to his way of talking, like "at the drop of a cat" (which means right away), are soon adapted into the little boy's lexicon, too. A talented cook, artist, and gardener, Luis has much wisdom to impart and many experiences to share with his grandson--even though, as a war refugee, he never went to school himself and never learned to read and write. A loving testament to the intergenerational transmission of knowledge and the breathtaking beauty of the natural world, illustrated with evocative, multilayered art by Violeta Lópiz.

Butterfly Child by Marc Majewski (Illustrator) Author-illustrator Marc Majewski delivers a gorgeously painted, tender story about a young child who loves dressing up as a butterfly. A joyful celebration of creativity, self-expression, and family--perfect for fans of Jessica Love and Beatrice Alemagna. I am a butterfly. I spin and swirl, twist and twirl, flutter and flap, and when I open my wings, I fly! A young child loves the spots and patterns found on butterflies, and fashions bold orange wings to become a butterfly child. But when other kids shun the child for the clothes they don't understand, it takes a father's encouragement for the kid to stay true to what they love and find joy in the butterfly wings once more. * A Junior Library Guild Selection * Kids' Indie Next List Pick *

City of the Dead by James Ponti In this fourth installment in the New York Times bestselling series from Edgar Award winner James Ponti, the young group of spies go codebreaking in Cairo in another international adventure perfect for fans of Spy School and Mrs. Smith's Spy School for Girls. Codename Kathmandu, better known as Kat, loves logic and order, has a favorite eight-digit number, and can spot a pattern from a mile away. So when a series of cyberattacks hits key locations in London while the spies are testing security for the British Museum, it's clear that Kat's skill for finding reason in what seems like randomness makes her the perfect candidate to lead the job. And while the team follows the deciphered messages to Egypt and the ancient City of the Dead to discover who is behind the attacks and why, Kat soon realizes that there's another layer to the mystery. With more players, more clues, and involving higher levels of British Intelligence than ever before, this mission is one of the most complex that the group has faced to date. And it's also going to bring about a change to the City Spies...

Doggo and Pupper Search for Cozy by Katherine Applegate; Charlie Alder (Illustrator) In Doggo and Pupper Search for Cozy -- the conclusion to the Doggo and Pupper early readers trilogy by New York Times-bestselling author Katherine Applegate with a brightly colored palette from Charlie Alder -- the canines help Cat adjust to a big change: A new bed! When Cat announces that the Humans have given her a surprise present, Doggo and Pupper are all ears. But when they find out that Cat has a new bed and misses her old one, they set out to help her search for cozy. Change is difficult, and Katherine Applegate understands how it feels to miss a beloved source of security. Very young readers will relate to Doggo, Pupper, and Cat, and appreciate their friendship and empathy.

Fonchito and the Moon by Mario Vargas Llosa; Marta Chicote Juiz (Illustrator) Fonchito is a little boy with his heart set on winning the affection of his classmate Nereida. She is beautiful, and all he hopes for is her permission to kiss her on the cheek. But she is shy and agrees under only one condition: that Fonchito bring the moon to her. Bring her the moon? What is Fonchito to do? And in that moment his love inspires him to find a way to do the impossible. This first children's book by Mario Vargas Llosa, one of the world's greatest writers, is an enchanting story about the magic in discovering how high you can reach for those you love, even if they ask for the moon.

Here Comes Truck Driver Hippo by Jonathan London; Gilles Eduar (Illustrator) New York Times best-selling author Jonathan London explores how even the smallest Hippo can be a big help when he teams up with his friends. Little Hippo loves to play pretend, and today he's going to be a truck driver! He zooms his dump truck through the savannah to deliver a surprise to the lion cubs. But when Little Hippo encounters roadblocks throughout his journey, he's grateful he has such good friends to help him along his way. This heartwarming story shows the importance of helping others and being brave.

I Am Not an Octopus by Eoin McLaughlin; Marc Boutavant (Illustrator) Can a scaredy octopus in denial embrace his true identity? A goofy octopod finally dares to take the plunge--and dip his tentacles into the water he fears. Terry is definitely not an octopus. He's just a regular guy who happens to have a few extra limbs and a love of canned tuna. But again, he is NOT an octopus. If he were an octopus, he'd be living in the ocean, right? Not to mention going to Super Octopus Fantasea Adventure World. He definitely wouldn't be on land, unless he was afraid of the water. Which he absolutely isn't! OK, maybe, just maybe, it's time he learned how to swim? Kids will smile at this very silly story about being brave, facing your fears, and accepting who you really are.

It Happened on Saturday by Sydney Dunlap Thirteen-year-old Julia would much rather work with horses at the rescue barn than worry about things like dating and makeup. But when her BFF meets a boy at camp, Julia's determined not to get left behind. After a makeover from her older sister, she posts a picture of herself online and gets a comment from Tyler--a seemingly nice kid who lives across town. As they DM more and more, Julia's sure that Tyler understands her in a way her family never has. Even better, their relationship earns her tons of attention at school.Then Julia finds out Tyler's true plan, and her world is turned upside down. She fiercely guards her secret, but could her silence allow her friends to fall into the same trap?

Lucky for Winnie by Dandi Daley Mackall In Lucky for Winnie, Winnie finally gets the opportunity to gentle her own horse. While she hopes it will be the beautiful Arabian, she instead gets stuck with Lucky, a headstrong Mustang. Meanwhile, Winnie feels tempted to submit a traced drawing for the school art fair because she doubts her artistic skills. Winnie learns that the love and support of her family is better than being a good artist. Plus, when she pushes past her first impression and shows Lucky that she loves her no matter what, their bond grows.Winnie: The Early Years is a prequel series to the popular Winnie the Horse Gentler series by the same author. Winnie: The Early Years takes place on the same ranch and even includes Winnie's mother (who had passed away in the original series). The hope is that young readers will enjoy Winnie's early adventures, and as they grow up, they'll advance to reading the original series.

My Brain Is Magic by Prasha Sooful; Geeta Ladi (Illustrator) Is your brain magic? Whether your brain buzzes around the room like a bee or tells you to be loud and roar like a lion, celebrate the many things that it can be! This sensory-seeking celebration shines a light on neurodiversity and sensory processing in a fun and action-packed way for all children to enjoy.

Outside Amelia's Window by Caroline Nastro; Anca Sandu Budisan (Illustrator) New friends to meet, new worlds to explore... Amelia is a shy little girl with a big imagination. After an injury, she finds solace in stories--fairy tales about faraway lands and magical creatures. When two children move in next door, Amelia wonders: Can she play with them? Can she be as brave as the heroines in the stories she reads? With the help of a little bird outside her window, Amelia finds the courage she needs to embark on a journey in her new wheelchair...where she discovers that there is magic to be found just outside her window. With lyrical text and lovely watercolor illustrations, Outside Amelia's Window is a heartfelt story about friendship, new beginnings, and embracing the beauty of the world around us.

Remember Us with Smiles by Gary Jansen; Grace Jansen; Barbara Bongini (Illustrator) 2023 Christopher Award Winner, Books for Young People 2023 Independent Press Awards Winner, Gift Books for Children 2023 Independent Press Awards Distinguished Favorite, Picture Books - All Ages "Remember Us with Smiles will spark the creativity of children of all ages and help them tell their own stories." --Deepak Chopra, New York Times bestselling author Remember Us with Smiles is a tender story of a family remembering together both the fun and the challenges of growing up. It reminds readers to savor even the humblest of moments because they provide the foundation for a lifetime of memories. A book for children of all ages, young children will be introduced to the concept of seeing something extraordinary in the commonplace, while older children will be encouraged to commemorate milestones in their own lives. Remember Us with Smiles will leave families with the reassurance that when they remember their lives together with a smile, joy forms the bridge connecting then to now, now to the future. The lively and colorful illustrations by Barbara Bongini bring to life family visits to the park, bedtime stories, and car rides for ice cream, as well as stormy nights, sicknesses, and scares. "We are inviting parents to imagine how they can help their children and grandchildren see yesterday through the lens of appreciation," says co-author Gary Jansen says, "because when a family spends time together, what feels ordinary in the moment often becomes something to celebrate in the future."

Scaredy Bath by Zoe Foster Blake; Daniel Gray-Barnett (Illustrator) From the author of No One Likes a Fart comes a hilarious, bubble-filled picture book that highlights the chaos and comfort of bath time. Who doesn't love bath time? The shiny bubbles, the fun bath toys, and, of course, the big splashes! But have you ever wondered what it's like for the bathtub?   Scaredy Bath cannot stand bath time. It thinks the water is too hot, the kids are too loud, and its once-polished inside is now way too dirty! Is there a way for Scaredy Bath to enjoy this daily ritual as much as everyone else in the family?   With delightfully clever text from Zoë Foster Blake and joyous illustrations from Daniel Gray-Barnett, Scaredy Bath celebrates the ups and downs of family life.

Squished: a Graphic Novel by Megan Wagner Lloyd; Michelle Mee Nutter (Illustrator) From the Eisner-nominated duo behind the instant bestseller Allergic comes a fun new graphic novel about finding your own space... especially when you're in a family of nine! Eleven-year-old Avery Lee loves living in Hickory Valley, Maryland. She loves her neighborhood, school, and the end-of-summer fair she always goes to with her two best friends. But she's tired of feeling squished by her six siblings! They're noisy and chaotic and the younger kids love her a little too much. All Avery wants is her own room -- her own space to be alone and make art. So she's furious when Theo, her grumpy older brother, gets his own room instead, and her wild baby brother, Max, moves into the room she already shares with her clinging sister Pearl! Avery hatches a plan to finally get her own room, all while trying to get Max to sleep at night, navigating changes in her friendships, and working on an art entry for the fair. And when Avery finds out that her family might move across the country, things get even more complicated. Megan Wagner Lloyd and Michelle Mee Nutter have once again teamed up to tell a funny, heartfelt, and charming story of family, friendship, and growing up.

The Circles in the Sky by Karl James Mountford (Illustrator) With luminous illustrations, this original folktale about the discovery of a lifeless bird offers a sympathetic exploration of grief, loss, and hope. One morning, Fox is drawn toward the forest. There, in a clearing, he sees something small and silent, perhaps forgotten. It's a bird, lying as still as can be. Fox is confused, upset, and angry. Is the bird broken? Why doesn't it move or sing, no matter what Fox does? His curious antics are spied by a little moth, who shares a comforting thought about the circles in the sky--that the sun, even after it sets, is reflected by the moon and the stars, reminding us of its light. In an author-illustrator debut, Karl James Mountford pairs a text at once lyrical and humorous, meditative and down-to-earth with glorious, multilayered artwork that will take your breath away. Told with sensitivity and an enchanting visual style, this story of the ineffable nature of death and life has the feel of a universal folktale for modern times.

The Sister Switch (Best Wishes #2) by Sarah Mlynowski; Debbie Rigaud; Maxine Vee (Illustrator) The instant New York Times bestseller! "Delightful, with just the right touch of magic." -- Kirkus Reviews Because you're blue This bracelet is now for you. Speak one wish to make it true... So begins the second book in the enchanting BEST WISHES series. When different girls around the country receive a wish-granting bracelet in the mail, magical mayhem ensues. Filled with fun illustrations, friendship, and humor, these books are like American Girl...with magic. Optioned for film! Addie Asante of Columbus, Ohio, feels stuck in the middle. Her big sister, Sophie, bosses her around while her little sister, Camille gets whatever she wants. When Addie receives a mysterious package with a magical bracelet, she makes a wish to no longer be in the middle and--POOF--she's transformed into her big sister! Being Sophie is amazing: Addie can hang out at the café after school, have her own room, and sing in the talent show. But as her new long-distance friend, Becca (who had the bracelet last time), warns her, having a wish come true can get really messy. Plus, in a twist of magical chaos, Addie's big sister has become the baby sister, and the baby sister has become ADDIE! With friendships--and grades--on the line, and a sneaky stranger determined to get her hands on the magic bracelet, can Addie and her sisters find a way to switch back before it's too late? New York Times bestselling authors Sarah Mlynowski and Debbie Rigaud bring laughter, sparkle, and warmth to this story that's perfect for fans of Whatever After, Upside-Down Magic, The Baby-Sitters Club, and more!

The Very Best Sukkah by Shoshana Nambi; Moran Yogev (Illustrator) Sukkot is Shoshi's favorite Jewish holiday. She and her brothers love to decorate their sukkah, the hut where her family will celebrate. But who will win the Ugandan Abayudaya community's annual sukkah contest? While only one sukkah can be the best, everybody wins when neighbors work together.

Together with You by Patricia Toht; Jarvis (Illustrator) From the team that brought us Pick a Pine Tree and Pick a Pumpkin, a big-hearted story about the love between grandparent and grandchild takes us through the seasons. For one grandmother and grandchild, keeping dry in spring showers is easy when dashing through the drops side by side. In summer they stay cool with a squirt of the hose, then savor frozen treats in the shade. In autumn, snug in sweaters, they fly a kite while leaning into each other against the wind. And winter finds them nestling under blankets, sipping cocoa and watching the snow quietly fall. Narrated as a kind of love letter from a young child to a grandparent, this picture book pairs Patricia Toht's safe, tender text with gentle art from Jarvis that meets it at every turn. An ideal gift from grandparent to grandchild (or the other way around), this charming story makes it clear that "no matter the weather, whatever we do, every day's better together with you."

Treasure Map: an Acorn Book (the Adventure Friends #1) by Brandon Todd; Gloria Félix (Illustrator) Grab your compass and join the Adventure Friends -- Miguel and Clarke -- in this full-color early reader series! Pick a book. Grow a Reader! This series is part of Scholastic's early reader line, Acorn, aimed at children who are learning to read. With easy-to-read text, a short-story format, plenty of humor, and full-color artwork on every page, these books will boost reading confidence and fluency. Acorn books plant a love of reading and help readers grow! Clarke is new to town and ready to explore. Miguel loves meeting new people and going on adventures. With their walkie-talkies and compass in hand, these new friends map out their neighborhood and search for hidden treasure! With easy-to-read text and full-color artwork throughout, this adventure-filled early reader series is sure to be a hit with beginning readers! And after seeing Miguel and Clarke use their super-cool mapping skills across four short stories, readers may even be inspired to make their own neighborhood maps!

Whale Done by Stuart Gibbs In the eighth novel in New York Times bestselling Stuart Gibbs's FunJungle series, Teddy Fitzroy returns as FunJungle's resident sleuth to find the culprits behind a blown-up whale and a string of beach sand thefts. After an escaped kangaroo starts a fire that burns down his house, Teddy Fitzroy accepts an invitation to go to Malibu with his girlfriend, Summer, and her mother, Kandace. He's hoping to spend some time relaxing on the beach, but wherever Teddy goes, trouble isn't far behind. First, a massive dead whale has washed up on the beach--and before anyone can determine what killed it, it explodes. Doc, the head vet from FunJungle, suspects something fishy is going on and ropes Teddy and Summer into helping him investigate. Then, Teddy stumbles upon yet another mystery involving tons of stolen sand. And the paparazzi start spreading rumors about Summer dating a celebrity, leading Teddy to question their relationship. Without Summer as his trusted partner, can Teddy navigate the rough waters of this glitzy world and uncover what's going on?

While You Sleep by Jennifer Maruno; Miki Sato (Illustrator) Breathtaking collage art and exquisite rhyming coupletsshowcase fantastical dreams as the natural world is prepared for a new day inthis gentle bedtime book. As the day ends and a little girl is put to sleep by hermother, night-helper bunnies work their magic to tidy and polish the world. Thesehelpers paint flowers, dust butterflies, and charge rainbows to make the worlda beautiful place to wake up to. Miki Sato's collage art, which combines paper, textiles,and embroidery silk, creates a three-dimensional dream world that is rich indetail and texture. Jennifer Maruno uses soothing rhyming couplets that celebratethe beauty of nature, creating a uniquely magical world.

Adam and His Tuba by Ziga X. Gombac; Maja Kastelic (Illustrator); Olivia Hellewell (Translator) "Readers will be left screaming, 'Encore!'" -Kirkus Reviews A playful book about finding your own path. Everyone in the circus loves to perform - except for Adam, the youngest member of the Von Trapeze family. Wherever Adam Von Trapeze's family circus performs they inspire audiences with their breathtaking feats. Grandma Antonia breathes fire, Uncle Artem builds dizzying human pyramids, and Papa Alexei and Mama Anastasia dance blindfolded on the tightrope. Only Adam, the youngest of the family, doesn't show an interest in circus tricks and loud applause. The family is concerned. Where did they go wrong? But one day they are enchanted by the sound of a tuba. And from that day forward, the famous Von Trapeze family circus features a new performer--the one they never expected to be part of the family tradition. And he was a star. Two of the most famous Slovenian children's book artists take us into the world of the circus in their first joint work. Ziga X Gombac tells the story of Adam in clear, subtle words. With a reduced palette of warm sepia colors, Maja Kastelic lights up the circus world on and off the stage. Together they plead for trust in one's own path and encourage us to take our place in the world.

Becoming a Butterfly by National Geographic KIds Follow one of nature's most fascinating creatures from egg to caterpillar to butterfly in this vibrantly illustrated board book that introduces babies and toddlers to these incredible insects. Bursting with vivid photos and featuring super-simple facts, this charming board book explores how a butterfly becomes a butterfly! Little readers will be dazzled by the variety of colorful butterflies they meet as they learn how these beloved insects develop from egg to caterpillar to chrysalis to an adult ready to spread its wings and fly. Designed to be the stepping stone to the best-selling National Geographic Little Kids First Big Book series, the Little Kids First Board Book series takes similar subjects and distills them down to the simplest nonfiction concepts for the youngest audience. With their rounded square shape, bright and playful design, awesome photography, clear text, and cues to encourage interactive learning, the Little Kids First Board Books mirror the beloved Little Kids First Big Books while taking a fresh, new approach to excite a baby's sense of wonder and make learning about nature and science fun. Complete your National Geographic Little Kids First Board Book collection with these titles: Little Kids First Board Book: Animals On the Go Little Kids First Board Book: Space Little Kids First Board Book: Ocean Little Kids First Board Book: Wild Animal Sounds Little Kids First Board Book: Things That Go Little Kids First Board Book: Dinosaurs Little Kids First Board Book: Weather Little Kids First Board Book: Trucks Little Kids First Board Book: Birds Little Kids First Board Book: African Animals

Calling for the Moon by Wu Xia; Ziru Meng (As told to) Calling for the Moon Trade Book (Hardcover)

Dark on Light by Dianne White; Felicita Sala (Illustrator) As the sun sets, three siblings discover nature's nighttime beauty in this soothingly rhythmic and gorgeously illustrated bedtime picture book from the acclaimed author-illustrator team behind Green on Green. Gentle the evening. Sweeping the skies. Dark the shadows as twilight arrives. Rose the horizon, gleaming and bright. Twilight and evening and dark on light. When the family dog trots away from the house at sunset, three siblings tumble out the door to go find him. Soon they find themselves immersed in the luminous colors, shades, and shadows of nature at night--both dark and light. They wander through moonlit lavender meadows, past a timid fawn, beneath a snowy white owl, and much, much more as the night deepens until, at last, they find their sneaky pup. With beautiful illustrations by Felicita Sala and lyrical text by Dianne White that's perfect for reading aloud, this book invites young readers to step into the wondrous, colorful nighttime natural world.

El Pato y Sus Zapatos by Juan Moreno; Hazel Quintanilla (Illustrator) Introduce your little ones to the concept of colors and different types of shoes in both English and Spanish! Duckie has an abundance of shoes: He has a pair of shoes for every activity he loves to do. Duckie's colorful shoes come in blue, red, green, and gray, which pair will he wear today? Parents will love this colorful bilingual English-Spanish board book as it introduces the concept of colors and the passing of time through the days of the week. An endearing duck will guide little ones through his bright closet of shoes--each one for a different day of the week and for a different activity.

Friends Beyond Measure by Lalena Fisher (Illustrator) "A loving tale inventively and informatively told." --Kirkus (starred review) "A uniquely told story that will delight all readers. Highly recommended." --School Library Journal (starred review) "Clever, whimsical, and jam-packed with details" --The Horn Book (starred review) "A friendship story chronicled through charts, graphs, and maps." --Publishers Weekly (starred review) This is THE next book for fans of Mapping Sam and My Map Book! Told exclusively through charts and graphic illustrations, infographics designer Lalena Fisher explores the touching friendship of Ana and Harwin and how they work through their emotions when one friend learns the other is moving far away. Friends Beyond Measure explores the world of infographics, including maps, diagrams, charts, timelines, and so much more! From the chart showing how to make fairy tea to the Venn Diagram of the friends' personalities, every page is filled with delicious details for the reader to pore over. Ana and Harwin's friendship has been off the charts since day one! But when Harwin learns her family is going to move far away, the duo isn't sure how their friendship can survive the move. See how their friend-o-meters calibrate in this imaginative, heartwarming story by beloved picture book creator and infographic designer Lalena Fisher.  An ideal read-aloud for classrooms, libraries, and homeschooling, this book includes backmatter that explains all about the different types of charts and graphics in the book and gives suggestions for readers to create charts of their own.   Readers will love all the fun details in this rich and visual story! And they'll engage in critical thinking while analyzing and evaluating the images.

How to Draw a Happy Cat by Ethan T. Berlin; Jimbo Matison (Illustrator) A "How to Draw" lesson spins hilariously out of control when Cat just won't stay happy! This relatable madcap read-aloud is immense fun, and perfect for fans of Dragons Love Tacos. Drawing a happy cat seems like such an easy thing to do. Just follow the instructions in this book! Wait a minute . . . why doesn't Cat look happy? We gave her a stuffy and a cool t-shirt! Uh-oh! Turns out drawing a happy cat is harder than it looks. Now it's the reader's job to find out why Cat isn't staying happy AND draw everything she wants! (That might include skateboards, friends, and yes--even a pizza-flinging catapult.) This clever, often tender, laugh-out-loud picture book breaks the fourth wall in charming ways; will have kids asking for repeat reads; and will definitely have parents nodding knowingly at the escalating cycle of demands. Can you draw a happy cat?

I Did It! by Michael Emberley Theodor Seuss Geisel Award Winner! Learning to ride a bike is hard. Can I do it? Yes, I can! A fun comic that kindergarteners and first graders can read on their own. Can I do it? I can't do it. I want to do it. I did it! Simple text that new readers can read by themselves, along with delightful pictures in a comic format, show a little creature trying and trying again as they learn to ride a bicycle.  All their friends help with supportive words of encouragement. "You did it!" their friends exclaim. Comics-lovers can now share the fun with their kids, students, siblings, and younger friends who are learning to read!  I Like to Read® Comics are perfect for kids who are challenged by or unengaged in reading, kids who love art, and the growing number of young comics fans. Filled with eye-catching art, humor, and terrific stories these comics provide unique reading experiences for growing minds. We hope that all new readers will say, "I like to read comics!" An American Library Association Notable Children's Book A Kirkus Reviews Best Book of the Year

João by a Thread by Roger Mello (Illustrator); Daniel Hahn (Translator) As Joao tucks under a lovingly woven quilt, he asks himself: So it's just me now? He curls up, getting cozy in bed, and soon the world of his dreams unspools on the page. The blanket in his bed unravels into deep rivers, lakes, valleys, reservoirs, mountain ranges, fishing nets full of tadpoles and gaping holes, until what's left is just one long thread. When he feels alone and scared in the dark, Joao 'sews words like patchwork' into a new blanket. He weaves the threads of his quilt until they form one long sentence, and soon, the nighttime is peppered with his own silvery, slippery words.

Marya Khan and the Fabulous Jasmine Garden (Marya Khan #2) by Saadia Faruqi; Ani Bushry (Illustrator) Perfect for fans of Ivy & Bean and Dory Fantasmagory, this charming new chapter book series by the author of the successful Yasmin series follows a Pakistani-American third-grader whose plans may backfire but whose persistence and heart are inspiring Marya's school is creating a community garden for students to take care of, and Marya is super excited. Not only will her third-grade class be the first to work on it, but Marya's mom will be teaching the students all about gardening. Most importantly, one student will be chosen to lead the charge. Marya REALLY wants to be the class leader . . . but so does Alexa, her worst enemy. Cue Operation Be a Leader! Marya plans to work hard to prove she can be in charge, but nothing she does seems to make a difference. Birds keep destroying the plants, and none of Marya's classmates want to listen to her. Can Marya bring everyone together and make the most beautiful, fabulous garden the school has ever seen?

Nic Blake and the Remarkables: the Manifestor Prophecy by Angie Thomas Internationally bestselling superstar author Angie Thomas makes her middle grade debut with the launch of an inventive, hilarious, and suspenseful new contemporary fantasy trilogy inspired by African American history and folklore. It's not easy being a Remarkable in the Unremarkable world. Some things are cool--like getting a pet hellhound for your twelfth birthday. Others, not so much--like not being trusted to learn magic because you might use it to take revenge on an annoying neighbor. All Nic Blake wants is to be a powerful Manifestor like her dad. But before she has a chance to convince him to teach her the gift, a series of shocking revelations and terrifying events launch Nic and two friends on a hunt for a powerful magic tool she's never heard of...to save her father from imprisonment for a crime she refuses to believe he committed.

Pete the Cat Saves Up by James Dean (Illustrator); Kimberly Dean Pete the Cat earns and saves money to buy a supercool toy in this Level 1 I Can Read from New York Times bestselling creators Kimberly and James Dean. Pete the Cat wants a supercool Sharkbot toy, but he doesn't have enough money in his piggy bank. He takes on odd jobs, from shoveling snow to selling lemonade and more, and saves every penny. How long will it take for him to earn  enough money to buy the toy  Find out in this Level 1 I Can Read book complete with original illustrations from the creators of Pete the Cat, Kimberly and James Dean. Pete the Cat Saves Up is perfect for children learning to sound out words and sentences. Whether shared at home or in a classroom, the short sentences, familiar words, and simple concepts of Level One books support success for children eager to start reading on their own.

Ripple Grove by Robert Broder; Melissa Larson (Illustrator) "Are fairies real?" a young girl asks her father. As the two walk through a forest that is magical enough to help us all believe, they tell one another a fairy tale he's been building for her for a long time: Moomjean the fairy battles General Crag of the Trelfs to protect the fairy lands of Ripple Grove. Father and daughter finish their hike and return home, full of magic and wonder of both the forest and the fairies.

Warriors: a Starless Clan #3: Shadow by Erin Hunter Erin Hunter's #1 bestselling Warriors series continues! Discover more thrilling adventures in this third book in the Starless Clan arc. A crossroads for the Clans--and the warrior code! The warrior code now allows a cat to formally change Clans, but ShadowClan's newest arrival feels increasingly unwelcome--and though ShadowClan warrior Sunbeam thinks every cat deserves a chance, one of the loudest voices of opposition is her own mother. Meanwhile medicine cat apprentice Frostpaw scrambles to help RiverClan stay afloat under the watchful eye of a second Tigerstar, and the shadow of growing conflict looms over them all... This seventh epic Warriors series is full of action, intrigue, and adventure--a perfect introduction for new readers and for long-time fans eager to discover what unfolds after the events of The Broken Code.

Stanley's Secret by John Sullivan; Zach Manbeck (Illustrator) The award-winning author of Kitten and the Night Watchman is back with an inspiring and poignant picture book about a boy learning the self-confidence to fulfill his dream of dancing in front of his peers. The only audience shy, quiet Stanley dances in front of is his pet mice, Squeaker and Nibbles. He also practices when he's alone in empty classrooms or the gym when he helps the janitor after school, tap dancing shuffle, tippy-tap, tippy-tap. "Talent should be shared," encourages Principal Reynolds. Can Stanley find the courage to perform in the school talent show?

The Clown Said No by Torben Kuhlmann (Illustrator); Mischa Damjan; Anthea Bell (Translator) Good things happen when you stand up for yourself! Petronius is the funniest clown in the world, but he's tired of being told what to do by the ringmaster. The animals are tired of being bossed around too. So, Petronius and his friends--Theodore the donkey, Ferdinand the horse, Gustav the lion, Luise the giraffe, and Otto the dog--leave the circus. With a little patience and creativity, the friends realize just what it would take to make them happy. They may not have a big top, but Petronius can tell his wonderful stories, the dog can run free without his collar, and the horse can nap through the waltz if he's getting sleepy. And soon the band of friends perform the show they've always dreamed of doing. This picture book classic from 1961 has been newly illustrated by award winner Torben Kuhlmann for a whole new generation to enjoy.  STARRED REVIEW "Now with stunning new illustrations, this classic picture book centers on a circus clown who's tired of being "the funniest." He learns a word that everyone should be brave enough to wield: "no." ...Everyone realizes that letting living beings speak and live their truths makes for the best spaces possible." - Foreword Reviews

The Teachers I Loved Best by Taylor Mali; Erica Root (Illustrator) Educator and acclaimed poet Taylor Mali honors the magic of teachers and mentors in this joyful, energetic, uplifting gift book. Easy teachers who gave easy tests are not the teachers I loved the best.... Perfect for teacher appreciation gifts and graduation, here is an inspirational, rhyming picture book ode to the extra-special teachers we remember all those years later. Children will love seeing themselves and their favorite teachers in scenes bursting with positivity, highlighting not just academics but sports, drama, art, music, and community. And teachers will appreciate seeing their honored profession depicted with love and gratitude. With gorgeous and whimsical illustrations by Erica Root, here is a book that celebrates the commitment and diversity of the special people who mentor, lead, and inspire our children.

The Witch's Apprentice by Zetta Elliott; Cherise Harris (Illustrator) The dragons may be out of the bag, but Jaxon is ready to hatch some magic of his own in this third book in the critically acclaimed series. Ever since the baby dragons were returned to the magical realm, things have been off. The New York summer has been unusually cold. A strange sleeping sickness is spreading across the city. And Jaxon's friends Kenny and Kavita have begun to change, becoming more like the fairy and dragon they once cared for.   On top of all that, Jax is hiding a secret--Vik entrusted him with a phoenix egg! Jax wants to help his friends and learn how to hatch the phoenix, but so far his lessons as a witch's apprentice haven't seemed very useful. Where can he find the strength--and the magic--he needs?

Too Many Rabbits by Davide Cal; Emanuele Benetti (Illustrator); Angus Yuen-Killick (Translator) A special offer at the pet store results in an unforeseen rabbit situation for two siblings in this lighthearted cautionary tale with a fun counting twist. After a month of pleading, Dad finally takes Owen and Zoey to the pet store to adopt a rabbit. Once there, a two-for-one special offer just cannot be ignored; so they take home two rabbits - one male, and one female. Two rabbits make more rabbits, who then make even more rabbits, and soon there are just too many of the sweet little creatures. So begins a hilarious counting adventure as Owen and Zoey find homes for all of the rabbits. Full of little 'easter eggs' hidden in the art, Too Many Rabbits is a mirthful reminder to be careful of what you wish for and a hilarious lesson in chaos control for young readers.

Turtles of the Midnight Moon by María José Fitzgerald When poachers threaten the island they love, two girls team up to save the turtles-and each other. An eco-mystery with an unforgettable friendship story at its heart from a fresh new voice in middle grade. Twelve-year-old Barana lives in a coastal village in Honduras, where she spends every spare minute visiting the sea turtles that nest on the beach. Abby is feeling adrift in sixth grade, trying to figure out who she is and where she belongs after her best friend moved away from New Jersey. When Abby's papi plans a work trip to Honduras, she is finally given the opportunity to see his homeland-with Barana as her tour guide. But Barana has other plans- someone has been poaching turtle eggs, and she's determined to catch them! Before long, Abby and Barana are both consumed by the mystery, chasing down suspects, gathering clues, and staking out the beach in the dead of night. . . . Will they find a way to stop the poachers before it's too late? A heart-pounding mystery with a hint of magic, Maria Jose Fitzgerald's debut novel explores the power of friendship, community, and compassion to unite all living creatures.

What Do You See When You Look at a Tree? by Emma Carlisle (Illustrator) What do you see when you look at a tree? Leaves and twigs and branches? Or do you see a living thing that moves and breathes and dances? Full of finely drawn forest scenes, this gentle picture book encourages children to explore their connections with nature. Award-winning artist Emma Carlisle asks readers to consider how each tree is different, what they have witnessed in their centuries of life, what animals they have sheltered, and who may have played under their branches. Exploring growth through the eyes of a child, this lovely picture book urges readers to connect with the world around them, fostering a deeper appreciation for the natural environment and their place within it.

All Aboard the Schooltrain by Glenda Armand; Keisha Morris (Illustrator) "Schooltrain! Schooltrain! Don't be late! The school bell rings at half past eight!" This tender family story, inspired by the author's own, illuminates a dynamic chapter in American history known as the Great Migration -- and the many trains people rode toward freedom. ***3 STARRED REVIEWS*** * "A vivid evocation of place and era rolling solidly on a bed of timeless values." -- Kirkus Reviews, starred review * "A child-friendly picture book introducing the Great Migration." -- Booklist, starred review * "Lends the meandering feel of family stories to this portrait of a historical moment." -- Publishers Weekly, starred review Thelma loves to watch the Sunset Limited chug through her little town of Vacherie, Louisiana. And she dreams of one day riding a real train! For now, she has her beloved schooltrain. Every morning, she and her friends walk to school, single file, chanting all the way: "Schooltrain! Schooltrain! Don't be late! The school bell rings at half past eight!" Then it's on to great adventures with her teacher's books -- and her own imagination! But lately, someone named Jim Crow has been making trouble for folks in Vacherie. Aunt Bea and Uncle Ed have already moved away. When Thelma's best friend also has to leave, Thelma wonders, who is Jim Crow and why does he have to be so mean? Will he make trouble for Pop, too?

Billie and Bean at the Beach by Julia Hansson; B. J. Woodstein (Translator) "Open, clear, inviting...A pitch-perfect portrayal of a summer day."--Kirkus Reviews, starred review Celebrating the supportive relationship between a child and her dog, this story shows how we can all be brave and achieve things in our own time. Billie prefers playing quietly, but the beach is a noisy place. Her energetic dog, Bean, is happy to explore the sand and water. When Billie does try going for a swim, she has a painful surprise and heads back to shore. But Bean digs up something that can help Billie get back in the water where she soon discovers a whole world of quiet solitude and spectacular color beneath the surface.

Cat Kid Comic Club: on Purpose: a Graphic Novel (Cat Kid Comic Club #3): from the Creator of Dog Man by Dav Pilkey (Illustrator) The Cat Kid Comic Club is deep in discovery in the newest graphic novel in the hilarious and heartwarming worldwide bestselling series by Dav Pilkey, the author and illustrator of Dog Man. The comic club is going in all different directions! Naomi, Melvin, and siblings are each trying to find their purpose. Naomi has an idea to get rich quick that causes a lot of commotion and emotion. And when faced with rejections, the friends try and try again to stay true to their vision. To top it off, a surprise visitor comes to class to stir things up. Will a desire for money and power cloud Naomi's purpose? Is it quitting time? Will the club ever be the same? The hilarity is nonstop as the baby frogs navigate sibling relationships, follow their path, and create art -- with purpose! Featured as stories-within-the-story, the mini comics showcase each baby frog's perspective and individual art style. In this groundbreaking graphic novel series, award-winning author and illustrator Dav Pilkey uses a variety of techniques -- including acrylic paints, colored pencils, photography, collage, gouache, watercolors, and much more -- to illustrate each frog's creative purpose and encourage teamwork. The kaleidoscope of art styles, paired with Pilkey's trademark storytelling and humor, fosters creativity, collaboration, independence, and empathy. Readers of all ages will enjoy this fun, exciting, and purposeful graphic novel adventure.

Different by Mónica Montañés; Eva Sánchez Gómez (Illustrator); Lawrence Schimel (Translator) A resonant, captivating book about a brother and sister caught in a dark chapter of world history. Between 1936 and 1939, a civil war raged across Spain. For almost three years, ordinary citizens lived in fear of bombs dropping from the sky. When fascist dictator Francisco Franco declared victory, he began to persecute everyone who had once opposed him. Spain became a country of secrets, where anyone who was different was in danger. Different explores this turbulent period through the voices of seven-year-old Socorro and nine-year-old Paco. Because Papa has fled Spain due to his political beliefs, the siblings and their mother must hide the truth in order to survive. Paco is always hungry, and Socorro is never good enough for her teachers at school. But they can't ask for more food or better treatment: someone might find out who they are, or--worse--why their father isn't home anymore. At last a letter from Father arrives, with a chance for their family to reunite in Venezuela ... Dramatic oil-pastel illustrations and poignantly chosen words express the emotions of two children coming of age in a time of extremism and fear. Based on the author's family history, this middle grade story is a stirring depiction of the Spanish Civil War, its tragic aftermath, and the timeless struggle for freedom from political violence.

Elena Rides by Juana Medina (Illustrator) Beginning readers--and beginning riders--will be drawn to this bright, buoyant story of a determined elephant and her loyal sidekick, from the award-winning creator of Juana & Lucas. Elena wants to ride her bike. She steadies, she readies. She wobbles, she bobbles . . . KA-BANG! Learning to ride a bike is hard. But Elena can do it. She just has to try, try again. With this reassuring story of childlike persistence, Juana Medina, creator of the acclaimed Juana & Lucas series, introduces Elena, a plucky elephant, and the little red bird who is Elena's faithful cheerleader. Simple, energetic text and bold, brilliant artwork convey a relatable tale of the ups and downs of learning something new (not without protest or tears) and the final thrill of mastery that will have children rooting for Elena and ready for her next adventure.

Gato Guapo by Anika Aldamuy Denise; Zara Gonzalez Hoang (Illustrator) Laugh and count along with this lively cumulative romp told in a lyrical blend of Spanish and English by Pura Belpré Honor-winning author Anika Aldamuy Denise and illustrator Zara Gonzalez Hoang! Nine kittens follow Gato Guapo around, but when it's time to count them, one by one, they go missing, along with a piece of Gato Guapo's clothes! Young readers will love all the silliness that ensues as each naughty gatito dons a disguise and declares "Yo soy Gato Guapo!".

How to Talk Like a Bear by Charlie Grandy; Alex G. Griffiths (Illustrator) Told in the same fourth-wall-breaking style of B. J. Novak's The Book With No Pictures, How to Talk Like a Bear is the perfect how-to guide to speaking fluent bear. Want to learn how to speak Bear? Well, you came to the right place. It's far more than just growling and roaring (a common misconception). There's a lot more to it. It's very easy to accidentally say the wrong phrase when you're trying to get your point across. For example, saying "ROOOAARR" instead of "ROAAARRRR" is the difference between wanting a sandwich and wanting to get into beekeeping. This silly romp is perfect for read-alouds and is the exact right gift for anyone looking for a laugh (or looking to learn a new language).

If Dinosaurs Had Hair by Dan Marvin; Lesley Vamos (Illustrator) This laugh-out-loud picture book by Dan Marvin, with tongue-in-cheek art by Lesley Vamos, is an irreverent exploration of what it might've looked like if dinosaurs had lusciously stylized 'dos. What if dinosaurs had . . . hair? Curled, crimped, feathered, and permed, this book imagines the wealth of colors, styles, and hair textures the Jurassic Period might have had to offer. As well as their epic hair warfare. But as with any great battle, one hairstyle must have risen above the rest--one that literally blew these dinosaurs away . . . Author Dan Marvin has crafted a hilariously escalating story that begs to be reread, and illustrator Lesley Vamos brings eye-catching dynamic color and personality to this picture book. If Dinosaurs Had Hair brings the dinosaurs back to life in full color.

Knitting for Dogs by Laurel Molk A funny and creative look at how to turn a problem into a solution. Max is a big dog who lives with Izzy, a medium-sized girl, who has big ideas. Izzy can build anything--a birdhouse, a wooden swing, a tent, and even a catapult that really works. So when Izzy takes up knitting, she expects to be able to knit anything. But trying to make a sweater seems impossible. While scarves and hats knit up quickly, her sweaters always come out too big, too small, or with too many mistakes. As Izzy's knitting nightmares pile up, it takes a trip with Max to the dog park to figure out what she can do with them. Maybe these aren't mistakes after all!

Meesh the Bad Demon #1 by Michelle Lam A tale of unlikely heroes and myths is made real in this debut graphic novel series about a "bad" demon trying to find her place in the underworld. But she'll have to save it first! Meesh is a bad demon. "Bad" in that she always sees the good in those around her--which isn't how a demon is meant to feel or act.  Bullied by the other demons, twelve-year-old Meesh is more likely to be found reading magazines from Plumeria City--the fairy realm--and fangirling about the fairy princesses. But when disaster strikes and all of demon-kind is threatened, Meesh must journey to other worlds in search of help. As luck would have it, she meets a fairy princess right away. Things in the fairy realm aren't so perfect either, though. As Meesh makes surprising new friends and unites a band of outcasts, she learns there's much more to being a demon than she ever realized. And learning to love herself might just uncover the secret to saving her home.

Once upon a Book by Grace Lin; Kate Messner From Caldecott and Newbery Honoree Grace Lin and bestselling author Kate Messner comes a modern folktale about the joy of reading. Once upon a time, there was a girl. She went to a place alive with colors, where even the morning dew was warm.  Alice loves to imagine herself in the magical pages of her favorite book. So when it flaps its pages and invites her in, she is swept away to a world of wonder and adventure, riding camels in the desert, swimming under the sea with colorful fish, floating in outer space, and more! But when her imaginative journey comes to an end, she yearns for the place she loves best of all. Paired with vibrant illustrations, this lyrical, expressive story invites the reader to savor each page and indulge in the power of imagination.

Pirate Passover by Judy Press; Amanda Gulliver (Illustrator) The pirates are getting ready to celebrate Passover at sea, until their ship is washed ashore in a storm. What will they do? Luckily, they find a house with an open door, and everyone is invited in to enjoy the seder.

Roto and Roy: to the Rescue! by Sherri Duskey Rinker; Don Tate (Illustrator) This rip-roaring rescue adventure series by bestselling author Sherri Duskey Rinker and award-winning artist Don Tate celebrates the teamwork of man and machine! When a flash flood threatens a nearby town, helicopter Roto and pilot Roy soar to the rescue! Quick--a truck needs to be hoisted to safety! Hurry--that family's car is being swept away! Now grab as many sandbags and supplies as you can carry! This mission's going to be rough, but Roy and Roto are tougher than tough. From Sherri Duskey Rinker, bestselling author of the Goodnight, Goodnight, Construction Site series, and acclaimed illustrator Don Tate, this action-packed story showcases two awesome heroes and the power of teamwork.

Silver Linings by Fiona Woodcock (Illustrator) Pip and Parker are best friends who do everything together. When Pip makes a mistake, Parker is always there to see the bright side. But what happens when Parker needs a little encouragement, too Perfect for story-time and bedtime sharing, Silver Linings is a funny picture book about friendship, resilience, overcoming anxiety, and staying positive in the face of adversity, from acclaimed author-artist Fiona Woodcock. Pip and Parker live next door to each other and are such good friends that sometimes they don't even need words to communicate. If something goes wrong, Parker (who always looks on the bright side) helps Pip see the silver lining. When the clouds roll in, Pip sees a day spoiled by rain, but Parker sees a chance to play a fun cloud guessing game! When Pip accidently drops her sweet strawberry snack into her lemonade, she's certain disaster has struck. But Parker finds a reason to celebrate their unexpected pink lemonade! But what will happen when Parker makes a mistake and feels blue Can Pip cheer him up and show him the silver lining Acclaimed author-illustrator Fiona Woodcock's emotionally rich illustrations accompany her imaginative celebration of friendship, positivity, and loyalty. A great read-aloud, Silver Linings is perfect for bedtime, story-time, and classrooms. A wonderful choice for social and emotional learning that celebrates the importance of empathy and staying positive.

Stella díaz Leaps to the Future by Angela Dominguez (Illustrator) From award-winning author Angela Dominguez, the fifth and final novel about Stella Díaz, a Mexican-American girl who is now ready to be at the top of her school--fifth grade! Stella is getting ready for her next big step. This year, she's a fifth grader, which means she's not only one of the big kids in her elementary school, but she'll also have to start thinking about middle school. GULP! Luckily, Stella can count on her best friends Jenny and Stanley at her side. But when she has a chance to apply for an art and science program at a magnet school, Stella realizes that her future might hold a lot of big changes. Thinking about going to a different school than her closest friends, seeing her big brother Nick receiving mail from colleges far away, and then being forced to work on a project with her former bully... Suddenly, growing up isn't quite as fun as Stella first thought. Is Stella ready for what's next?

39 Clues: the Maze of Bones: a Graphic Novel (39 Clues Graphic Novel #1) by Rick Riordan; Ethan Young (Adapted by, Illustrator) The graphic novel adaptation of the mega-bestseller that launched a global phenomenon! Minutes before she died Grace Cahill changed her will, leaving her descendants an impossible decision: "You have a choice - one million dollars or a clue." Grace is the last matriarch of the Cahills, the world's most powerful family. Everyone from Marie Curie to Harry Houdini is related to the Cahills, yet the source of the family power is lost. 39 Clues hidden around the world will reveal the family's secret, but no one has been able to assemble them. Now the clues race is on, and young Amy and Dan must decide what's important: hunting clues or uncovering what REALLY happened to their parents.

The Umbrella by Jan Brett (Illustrator) A walk through the Costa Rican cloud forest provides a wonderfully lush setting for Jan Brett's beloved animal illustrations. When Carlos drops his umbrella to climb a tree for a better view of the animals, they all cram into the banana-leaf umbrella as it floats by--from the little tree frog to the baby tapir to the big jaguar and more. It gets so crowded in the umbrella that there isn't even enough room for a little hummingbird! So over the umbrella tumbles, everyone falls out, and poor Carlos comes back wondering why he didn't see any animals all day. In the spirit of Jan Brett's The Mitten and The Hat, this cheerful tale of escalation will have readers poring over every illustration for the world of details Jan packs in. With its classic story, exotic jungle setting, and brilliantly colorful menagerie, The Umbrella is sure to take its place among Jan's many family favorites.

The Yellow Handkerchief (el Pañuelo Amarillo) by Donna Barba Higuera; Cynthia Alonso (Illustrator) My abuela wears an old yellow handkerchief that her grandmother gave to her. I don't like the yellow handkerchief.

Too Small Tola Gets Tough by Atinuke; Onyinwe Iwu (Illustrator) It's a strange, scary time for Too Small Tola when a new virus separates her family, but Atinuke's small-but-mighty heroine proves once again how wise, kind, and resourceful she can be. In ordinary times, Tola lives in an apartment in Lagos, Nigeria, with her clever sister, Moji; her sporty brother, Dapo; and bossy Grandmommy. Tola is so happy! But news of a new virus--and a lockdown, too--sends Moji away in one direction and Dapo in another. Then, when Grandmommy can no longer go out to work, Tola goes instead. She works for the wealthy Diamond family and makes new friends among the household staff. But even the wealthy have problems--and only Too Small Tola is big enough to rise to solve them. Brimming with genuine emotion and ultimately reassuring, Atinuke's third book to feature the brave and endearing Tola, illustrated with zeal by Onyinye Iwu, shines with the light of resilience and hope.

Wallflowers by MacKenzie Joy (Illustrator) People call you a wallflower. Sometimes they call you shy. Sometimes they call you quiet, or maybe even scared. People think these are bad things, because sometimes they are LOUD. But you are happy just the way you are. And maybe you don't need to learn to be loud, they just need to learn to listen. Mackenzie Joy beautifully pairs her gorgeous illustrations with minimalist text in this heartwarming book that doesn't just acknowledge shy children, but celebrates them--because every wallflower deserves their chance to grow.

What Does Brown Mean to You? by Ron Grady (Illustrator) This joyously affirming picture book follows a young boy throughout his day as he plays, paints, and bakes, making positive associations with the color of his skin. To Benny, brown is more than just a color. Brown is his Gram's coffee and his Gramp's morning kiss. Brown is the wooden spoon he uses for mixing and baking. It's the ground that grows the tomatoes he loves and it's the log he plays on. Brown is the fuzzy blanket he takes to his room at the end of the day. Brown is him and brown is love. In tender, lyrical text and warmly exuberant illustrations, What Does Brown Mean to You? celebrates all the brilliant and beautiful shades of brown, encouraging children to explore and see the beauty of their skin reflected in their families, communities, and the world around them.

Aniana Del Mar Jumps In by Jasminne Mendez "Beautiful in its honesty and vulnerability, this is a powerful story about dreams and bodily agency that sings from the heart."-Natalia Sylvester, award-winning author of Breathe and Count Back From Ten A powerful and expertly told novel-in-verse by about a 12-year-old Dominican American swimmer who is diagnosed with Juvenile Arthritis by an award-winning poet. Aniana del Mar belongs in the water like a dolphin belongs to the sea. But she and Papi keep her swim practices and meets hidden from Mami, who has never recovered from losing someone she loves to the water years ago. That is, until the day Ani's stiffness and swollen joints mean she can no longer get out of bed, and Ani is forced to reveal just how important swimming is to her. Mami forbids her from returning to the water but Ani and her doctor believe that swimming along with medication will help Ani manage her disease. What follows is the journey of a girl who must grieve who she once was in order to rise like the tide and become the young woman she is meant to be. Aniana Del Mar Jumps In is a poignant story about chronic illness and disability, the secrets between mothers and daughters, the harm we do to the ones we love the most-and all the triumphs, big and small, that keep us afloat.

Bunnies in a Boat by Philip Ardagh; Ben Mantle (Illustrator) Surf's up--watch out! Here comes another funny, frolicking read-aloud from the creators of Bunnies on the Bus. Bunnies in a boat! Bunnies in a boat! Dashing and a-splashing! Let's hope they stay afloat! There are bunnies in a boat, and they're causing a maelstrom in Sunny Bay! The Sunny Town creatures are all out to play in the surf and sand when, whoosh, there goes a speedboat full of bunnies. Watch them crash into a sandcastle, whisk the sails off boats, zip their way to the airport, and run for the plane's cockpit . . . oh no! Philip Ardagh's rollicking, rhyming text is a joy to read aloud, while Ben Mantle's colorful visual gags and zany details make this a story kids will be bouncing to read over and over.

Cinderella--With Dogs! by Linda Bailey; Freya Hartas (Illustrator) A hilarious picture book featuring a dog-loving kingdom and the most fabulous, far-out fairy DOGmother ever! Here is a Cinderella story like no other. When Cinderella wishes for a fairy godmother, she's not expecting one that barks! And this fairy dogmother has a different agenda. Yes, Cinderella will have a new dress, but made of a cozy dog blanket. Yes, they will go to the ball, but they will run there and chase squirrels along the way. There's nothing like a canine companion to get a girl out of the house and her mind off her troubles! Yes, indeed, dogs do make everything better-and are a reminder that you don't need "happily ever after" when you have the joy of now. Readers will get a kick out of this retelling with its lovable cast of characters and refreshing ending.

Dog Man: Twenty Thousand Fleas under the Sea: a Graphic Novel (Dog Man #11): from the Creator of Captain Underpants by Dav Pilkey (Illustrator) DOG MAN IS BACK! The highly anticipated new graphic novel in the #1 worldwide bestselling series starring everyone's favorite canine superhero by award-winning author and illustrator Dav Pilkey! Piggy has returned, and his newest plot is his most diabolical yet. WHAT other new villains are on the horizon? WHERE are they all coming from? And WHO will step forward to save the city when scoundrels sabotage our Supa Buddies? With themes of friendship and doing good, Dog Man: Twenty Thousand Fleas Under the Sea is packed with action and hilarity. Featuring "Chomp-O-Rama," a brand-new song, a monstrous Mighty Mite -- and so much more than ever before! IT'S HEROIC, IT'S EPIC! For more creative, heartfelt adventures, join Flippy and Li'l Petey in the Cat Kid Comic Club series. And don't forget the series that started it all: Captain Underpants! A new edition of The Adventures of Captain Underpants includes a brand new Dog Man comic! Look for Dog Man with Love: The Official Coloring Book, too!

Elliot Jelly-Legs and the Bobblehead Miracle by Yolanda Ridge; Sydney Barnes (Illustrator) Is a magical Carey Price bobblehead the key to Elliot's success on the ice? Eleven-year-old Elliot loves hockey and finally convinces his parents to sign him up. There's just one problem: he can barely skate. But he is determined. He practices every chance he gets and even takes extra lessons. He is still miles behind the rest of his teammates in terms of skills and speed, though. So when the goalie gets injured, Elliot surprises everyone by offering to take his place. He figures his "jelly-legs" won't be quite so obvious in net. He is wrong. The first game is a complete disaster. In desperation, Elliot begs his Carey Price bobblehead for a win. Both thrilled and surprised when his wish is granted, Elliot makes more wishes. His team keeps winning. But is the magic real? And what will happen if his teammates discover the secret to Elliot's success? With twenty-five hockey-card-style illustrations scattered throughout, this is a heartfelt story of friendship, hockey and the importance of believing in yourself.

Good Morning, Good Night by Anita Lobel (Illustrator) Caldecott Honor-winning illustrator Anita Lobel introduces the concept of opposites with search and find elements in this picture book detailing the "rich, warm journey from morning to night" (Publishers Weekly, starred review) of a day spent in the city as seen through a child's eyes. We see a little dog step out of a door in a house. We watch a large workman climb out of a hole in the street. Look up there! A big bird is hovering high above a column. See down here! Little birds are pecking below a fire hydrant. Take a stroll through town and see all that makes the city go while finding the opposites in the illustrations in this sweet and entertaining picture book.

How to Write a Poem by Kwame Alexander; Melissa Sweet (Illustrator); Deanna Nikaido In this evocative and playful companion to their New York Times bestselling picture book How to Read a Book, Newbery Medalist Kwame Alexander teams up with poet Deanna Nikaido and Caldecott Honoree Melissa Sweet to celebrate the magic of discovering your very own poetry in the world around you. Begin with a question like an acorn waiting for spring. From this first stanza, readers are invited to pay attention--and to see that paying attention itself is poetry. Kwame Alexander and Deanna Nikaido's playful text and Melissa Sweet's dynamic, inventive artwork are paired together to encourage readers to listen, feel, and discover the words that dance in the world around them--poems just waiting to be written down.

In the Neighborhood by Rocio Bonilla (Illustrator) A silly and sweet picture book about neighbors, community, and making new friends where you least expect it. A group of neighbors never talks to one another because they've all made assumptions about each other. Camila the chicken's house is too noisy, Mr. Martínez the fox seems so straightlaced, Felipe the mouse is nervous, and Pepe the ogre--well, you know about ogres. But one day, Mrs. Paquita's internet connection goes out. That starts a domino effect of neighbors helping neighbors. And soon everything has changed.

Little Red Riding Hood and the Dragon by Ying Chang Compestine; Joy Ang (Illustrator) Award-winning author Ying Compestine reimagines the classic fairy tale "Little Red Riding Hood" from a Chinese perspective By now, you have probably heard the old folk tale about a girl in a red cape. The truth is that the story took place here in China, there wasn't a woodsman, and I, the gentle wolf, certainly was not the one who ate them. Here is the real story. This is not the story you think you know. In this version of the classic fairy tale, Little Red lives in a village near the Great Wall and trains in kung fu. When she ventures to her grandmother's to deliver rice cakes and herbal medicine, she encounters something much more fearsome than a wolf--a mighty dragon. With her wits and a sword in hand, Little Red must valiantly defend herself and her grandmother in this vibrant retelling from Ying Chang Compestine and Joy Ang. An author's note discusses how this reimagining is influenced by Chinese mythology, symbolism, traditional medicine, and other elements of Compestine's heritage.

Mister Kitty Is Lost! by Greg Pizzoli A fun and interactive preschool adventure (with cutout surprises on almost every page!) that explores counting and colors, from the award-winning creator of The Watermelon Seed and Good Night Owl. Mister Kitty is missing somewhere inside this book! Will you help us find him? Join the hunt for five yellow spots, four orange paws, three purple bells, and more, exploring numbers and colors along the way in an interactive countdown. Cutouts interacting with Greg Pizzoli's vivid artwork reveal a surprise after each page turn, all leading up to the BIGGEST twist of all at the end! Don't miss these board books by Greg Pizzoli: The Watermelon Seed Good Night Owl

Opal's Springtime Birdhouse by Emily Matheis; Albert Arrayas (Illustrator) A charming picture book tale that showcases how the rewards of our efforts can come from the most unexpected of places. Bang! Whack! Whirr! It's time for a birdhouse-building contest! Opal's friends all have endless ideas on how to make their constructions stand out. There are bells, pom-poms, basketballs, and many more materials to use--and yet Opal still feels stuck. Maybe a simple, sturdy piece wood...a few nails and screws will be just right. But when the judges don't pick Opal's birdhouse, she may still discover that her humble home is just right for someone else. In this charming picture book tale, creators Emily Matheis and Albert Arrayásor showcase how the rewards of our efforts can come from the most unexpected of places.

Plátanos Go with Everything/Los Plátanos Van con Todo by Lissette Norman; Sara Palacios (Illustrator) With the English and Spanish text side by side on the page, this bilingual edition of the vibrant picture book celebrating the strength of community and the versatility of plátanos is ideal for bilingual readers as well as Spanish speakers learning English and vice versa. Paletero Man meets Fry Bread in this vibrant and cheerful ode to plátanos, the star of Dominican cuisine, written by award-winning poet Lissette Norman, illustrated by Sara Palacios, and translated by Kianny N. Antigua. Platanos are Yesenia's favorite food. They can be sweet and sugary, or salty and savory. And they're a part of almost every meal her Dominican family makes.  Stop by her apartment and find out why platanos go with everything--especially love! Perfect for reading aloud and shared story time!

Sally's Big Day by Andrew Larsen; Dawn Lo (Illustrator) Sally is excited for the first day of puppy school, but it isn't easy when there are so many new things to see (and sniff!). It's hard to focus at puppy school when there are all kinds of pups to play with, water to splash in...and so many smells! But Sally doesn't give up and keeps trying, ending the day triumphantly. Just like children, puppies have a lot to explore in and learn about the world around them. This sweet story will give confidence to young readers as they venture into the world to learn and try new things.

Something Wild by Molly Ruttan (Illustrator) Performance jitters lead to some imaginative what ifs before a little girl finds her confidence. Hannah loves to play her violin--as long as no one is watching. On the day of the recital, she's wishing something wild would happen so she won't have to go. Perhaps a dolphin will jump out of the fountain and carry her away, or a giant rabbit will abscond with her violin. Hannah's big imagination dreams up all kinds of entertaining scenarios that could change the course of her day, but what actually happens is the most amazing of all!   Children and grown-ups alike will relate to Hannah's stage fright and get a laugh out of all her wishful thinking. Most importantly, they will be right there beside her on recital day when something wild--and beautiful--happens.

Thank You, Mama! by Linda Meeker; Sandra Eide (Illustrator) TikTok and viral video star Grey (@greyandmama) says "Thank you, Mama!" to healthy foods in this picture book that teaches gratitude, manners, and the joy of sharing meals with those we love. We all want to raise happy eaters who enjoy trying new foods, mealtimes with family, and being thankful. That's why so many parents love Linda Meeker's charming videos of her son Grey saying "Thank you, Mama!" With colorful illustrations that capture a child's daily snacks and mealtimes, Thank You, Mama will delight parents and kids alike as it follows a little boy exploring different foods--from vegetables to sushi--and trying to pick his favorite. This playful picture book for 3- to 7-year-olds encourages children to try new foods and become happy, healthy eaters honors the bond between parent and child models respect, manners, and thankfulness builds vocabulary and prereading skills with colorful food illustrations paired with words for each item This debut children's book from TikTok and Instagram stars Grey and Mama (@greyandmama, 7M followers) is the perfect story for Parents and grandparents who want to instill good habits and gratitude from a young age Any family eager to celebrate the love of food and family that develops over shared meals Baby showers, birthdays, holiday gift giving, or to a little one scared to try new foods This cheerful story about an adorable, curious, and kind child will have your kids saying "thank you"--and maybe even giving those peas a chance!

The Princess in Black and the Prince in Pink by Shannon Hale; Dean Hale; LeUyen Pham (Illustrator) When plans for a ball run a-fowl, Princess Magnolia accepts the help of a valiant new hero to save her secret decorations--and the entire evening! Princess Magnolia is at the Flower Festival prepping for the evening ball when suddenly she hears a commotion. Oh no! She isn't prepared to fight a monster or . . . a grumpy emu! To her surprise, a knight in shining armor comes to the rescue, but not before the princess's prized decorations are stomped on and destroyed. Luckily, the gallant Prince Valerian has his own secret identity--the Prince in Pink--and has been yearning for a chance to show off his special skills, with the help of some twinkle-twinkle and major glam. Glitter has been restored, but then the angry emu returns--with friends! Can the party heroes step up to save the day again? Expect the unexpected as this sparkling new entry in the New York Times best-selling series takes the floor with a flourish.

The Underland: a Branches Book (the Last Firehawk #11) by Katrina Charman; Judit Tondora (Illustrator) Tag, Skyla, and Blaze must travel to a new land to save Perodia, in this action-packed fantasy series! Pick a book. Grow a Reader! This series is part of Scholastic's early chapter book line, Branches, aimed at newly independent readers. With easy-to-read text, high-interest content, fast-paced plots, and illustrations on every page, these books will boost reading confidence and stamina. Branches books help readers grow! Tag and Skyla have returned to Perodia to begin their warrior training. But when their friend Blaze returns with troubling news that her mother has gone missing, Tag and Skyla's warrior skills are quickly put to the test. To find Blaze's mother, the friends must travel to a creepy world below the ground called The Underland. There, they meet a terrible new enemy: a king rat named Skull, who has his own big plans for Perodia! Will the friends be able to defeat this new enemy? Or will The Shadow return to Perodia once again... This fully illustrated series makes a great introduction to fantasy and quest stories for younger readers!

Together for Never by Marilyn Kaye The Parent Trap meets Mean Girls when two polar opposites are squeezed into a tiny vacation house just because their parents are dating. Charlotte is the queen bee of her 8th grade class-popular, confident, always wearing the trendiest clothes-and judging others for what they wear. Lily is a loner who dreams of becoming a writer-and she wants nothing to do with Charlotte and her snobby crowd. Then Charlotte's divorced father starts dating Lily's single mother. Neither one of the girls even notices-until the day they learn that they are going on vacation together. Worse than that, they'll have to share a small bedroom for two whole weeks. When The Parent Trap meets Mean Girls, can two girls ever make peace, or will they drag their vacations-and their parents' romance-into disaster? Every teen girl's nightmare becomes an entertaining, surprising and heartfelt story in the hands of seasoned middle grade pro Marilyn Kaye.

Travis Daventhorpe for the Win! by Wes Molebash For fans of Hilo and The Last Kids on Earth comes Travis Daventhorpe for the Win!, the first volume of a hilarious fantasy/sci-fi graphic novel series! Travis Daventhorpe may be a genius, but he's always struggled to make friends. After his attempt to befriend new kid Juniper Reyes results in an epic fail, Travis takes his sentient flying robot, Travbot, out for a ride. But when Travbot malfunctions, the two take a nosedive into the woods. There, they discover a legendary sword, a wizard from another dimension, and a mysterious prophecy: Travis Daventhorpe is destined to save the multiverse! From debut author Wes Molebash comes this video-game-inspired sci-fi adventure series. Join Travis as he dodges bullies, forges friendships, and perfects his science fair project...all while trying to fulfill his magical destiny!

Watch Out for the Lion! by Brooke Hartman; Anna Süßbauer (Illustrator) Readers beware--there's a ferocious lion in this book! The book warns that it has seen the lion already. First its bristly tail, then clashing claws, twitchy ears, fearsome fangs... and it's lying in wait to turn any unsuspecting passerby into a child cheeseburger or rugrat ravioli. But does a brushy tail always belong to a lion? When you touch the curvy claws, will they be attached to a paw? You never really know what might be lurking around the corner in this surprising story that challenges readers to face their darkest fears, and maybe even laugh about them.

What to Bring by Lorna Schultz Nicholson; Ellen Rooney (Illustrator) A moving story about making tough choices when disaster strikes Malia and her family are spending a day outside when they notice something strange. Huge white-and-gray clouds fill the sky, planes zoom overhead, and the air smells funny. A forest fire is sweeping the area, and they need to evacuate their home. Daddy tells Malia that she needs to choose what to bring. "Pick small things. Things important to you," he says. But there's so much that Malia wants to take with her! Her pillows and blankets. Her family of teddy bears. LOTS of books. As the pile in her room grows, and chaos swirls around her, Malia comes to realize that what is most important to her won't fit in a backpack: her little brother, her cat, and her dog. This heartfelt and powerful story explores a rare perspective: experiencing a natural disaster through the eyes of a child. Malia's authentic voice will resonate with readers, and the book's challenging subject matter is balanced with gentle lessons in communication, problem-solving, and family.