In Mathew New’s absurdist graphic novel, a teenage boy and his talking duck seek out adventure in an attempt to prove the boy’s worth as an explorer. Billy, a part-time janitor, is really an explorer. With Barrace, a duck who is also... Read More

“A patchwork story is the shame of a refugee,” says twelve-year-old Daniel, an Iranian refugee in Oklahoma with his sister, mother, and stepfather. The tale of what brought him to the buckle of the Bible Belt, to Tornado Alley and... Read More

Colleen Nelson’s heartwarming novel "Harvey Holds His Own" is about friendship, loyalty, and the importance of staying true to oneself, no matter the obstacles. For twelve-year-old Maggie, seventh grade at St. Ambrose Academy includes... Read More

Hayley Chewins’s fantasy novel "The Sisters of Straygarden Place" is filled with magic and danger—and love that overcomes all. The Ballastian sisters seem to have everything they need, including a magic house that feeds them. But... Read More

"Ice Queen" is a compelling young adult romance that illustrates some of the most serious perils and pitfalls of dating in the digital age. Felicia Farber’s young adult novel "Ice Queen" is a powerful cautionary tale about the dangers... Read More

Between its colorful, dynamic illustrations and clever linguistic elements, "Jazz Fly 3" is truly magnifique. Matthew Gollub’s glamorous picture book "Jazz Fly 3" is full of fun, music, and adventure—as fun to read as it is to listen... Read More

"Jack and the Lean Stalk" is an empowering alternative fairy tale in which a brave young boy welcomes a giant in need. Raven Howell’s picture book "Jack and the Lean Stalk" celebrates the joys of taking chances in friendships. Jack,... Read More

Woven of heartbreak and hope, Sandy Stark-McGinnis’s "The Space Between Lost and Found" is about a girl who’s determined to make the most of every moment. Cassie wishes that her mother were a dolphin—not because she doesn’t want... Read More