Staff Favorites
Picture Books
Think Tap the Magic Tree but with dog noses! This interactive picture book teaches little ones how to treat our puppy friends with gentle and kind touches, and how to boop their snoots, aka touch their noses! —Kelsie
Bruce can sometimes be a little grumpy about things, especially holidays. But his friends have an idea to make him like Halloween—they decide to tell him the tall of "The Legend of Soggy Hollow." Needless to say, Bruce is grumpy about this, and, at one point, possibly runs away. Funny and charming as always, this new Bruce story is a great read-aloud for the whole family. —Jaya
Gilbert the (grumpy) Goblin is back--and this time he's out to prove that elves are not as industrious and skilled as we think they are. Of course, Gilbert finds out that an elf's job is NOT easy at all (cue the toy conveyor belt)! The story and pictures are hilarious, plus there's a happy ending (Gilbert gets a gift for being an honorary elf). This may be my new favorite holiday book! -Barb
A delightful picture book about wanting to be seen in stories, and finding the courage to tell your own story. Great to read aloud with the whole family! Red, a red panda, and Gee, a giant panda, read a book about pandas, but quickly Red realizes that the book does not mention red pandas at all, and that makes Red very upset. So, Red decides to write a book about red pandas, but writing books can be hard, and Red throws the pages away. Thankfully, a family of red pandas sees the pages and they give Red the encouragement to finish the book. With Gee's illustrations, Red puts the completed book in a Little Free Library for everyone to read. -Jaya
Get ready for a night of wild music and dancing with the cool cats in this fabulous read-aloud picture book! The rhyme is great, the illustrations are so retro—and it reveals why cats tend to sleep so much during the day! This is sure to be a storytime favorite, whether you're partying down or getting ready to hit the hay. Love it!! - Barb
Squirrel has discovered a new, magical treat--ice cream--and wants to share with friend Bear. But is this the making of a great show for the other animal friends? This great read-aloud with colorful, fabulous pictures is perfect for those of us who love summer, ice cream, and cute critters creating CHAOS! -Barb
This unicorn may be teeny-weeny, but my love for him is big! Shawn Harris’s new picture book is a hilarious story of a bad road encounter disguised as a story about how size is relative disguised as a story about unicorns. There’s an aggrieved, ultra teeny-weeny gnome, a big palace—oh, and also, horses are mythical beasts. So delightful! -Claire
Flowers go “chugga chugga choo choo” and firefighters say “ding dong”! At least that's what the narrator of the book tells readers. Thank goodness the Bookmark is there to set the narrator right! Hilarious, silly, and a great book to read out loud! -Mallory
There Was a Party for Langston: (Caldecott Honor & Coretta Scott King Illustrator Honor) (Hardcover)
All hail Langston Hughes, Harlem Renaissance poet and inspiration for so many writers who followed after him! Jason Reynolds (wordsmith) and the Pumphrey brothers (visual wizards) celebrate the man and the 1991 party at the NYC Public Library in this wondrous picture book. The words, perfect for reading aloud, almost dance off the page, and the retro illustrations are chock full of letters--each page is a treat! This book begs to be enjoyed and read again and again--so come join the party! -Barb
Middle Grade
Liv Livingston's first day of school doesn't exactly go how she expected. Moving from Pleasant Place to Gloomsdale, it turns out that Liv is not only the new girl--she's also the only living student at her school--the rest are ghosts! Oh, and vampires, and werewolves, and ghouls... Liv starts out feeling very gloomy and out of place, but new friends, art class, and some friendly ghosts help Gloomsdale start to feel like home. -Kelsie
Nev Tallow is the newest student at the secretive Deephaven Academy. They're hoping to get away from the troubles of their home life but everything is not what it seems at this school and students and faculty alike seem to be in on the mystery. What stalks the halls of the cordoned-off east wing of the school? What do the prefects know about the student who passed away years ago? Can Nev figure out the secrets of the academy before the secrets find them? Filled with incredible illustrations and chilling twists, Deephaven is a great fall read going back to school and getting into the spooky season. -Gigi
March is Women's History Month and what better time to read about period equity! Lots of women (and some men and nonbinary folk) have periods, as do Gracie and Helen, the middle school protagonists of this witty romp about fighting for change no matter your age. Gracie and Helen were such well-realized characters, sparkling (Gracie) and seething (Helen) off the page. Armed with their individual strengths—baking! math!—they unite with other students to push for free period supplies in every bathroom of their school. -Sophia
Galaxy Jones and her dads run an inn in outer space, but with space slowly expanding, the inn is moving further and further away from other folks, including Galaxy's best friend. With fewer guests staying at the inn, the Joneses are thrilled when the royal family comes to stay- well, everyone except for Galaxy, who considers Prince Weston her intergalactic nemesis. But when some notorious space pirates show up and take everyone else hostage, Galaxy and Weston must team up to save both of their families, as well as the inn... -Kelsie
Iris doesn't remember anything before Mr. Halloway discovered her, but now she lives in a mansion with lots of other monsters (known as horrors) that he has saved over the years. Despite being a horror herself, Iris feels out of place at the mansion, and longs to venture out to the nearby town to find a real family. When the opportunity finally arises, Iris and her friends head to town for their annual Halloween celebration—will they be accepted? Or will the townspeople be afraid of them? And will Iris finally fit in and find a family? —Kelsie
In Anne Ursu's expert hands, ghosts, chronic illness, and the struggles of growing up particular to middle school are an obvious combination. This earnest and eerie story isn't terrifying, but it is haunting, and I couldn't put it down. -Angela
The most recent book in this series is just as powerful and riveting as the first two. If you are a fan of historical fiction, and unfamiliar with this trilogy, it's time to give it a read! Mary is a Deaf girl in a congenitally Deaf community on Martha's Vineyard in the early 1800s. I loved reading about her adventures and about her commitment to stand up and fight for respect and dignity, not just for herself and the Deaf community, but for all people from all backgrounds. While you can read book three as a stand alone, you will understand more context by reading all three important and page-turning books. -Holly
Sejal Sinha is a girl after my own heart - she thinks science is cool, she's got a cheetah best friend, and she believes in cardboard box magic. This is a delightful read for the whole family about believing in yourself and your own imagination. Full of South Asian references and scientific facts! I'm very excited for this series! —Jaya
Nine year old Ella has lived in the same apartment in the same house for a very long time. She prides herself on her extensive knowledge of the building, and she gets along with all of her neighbors. Well, most of them. So when a new couple moves in, Ella takes it upon herself to offer assistance and help them get settled in. But what on earth is she supposed to do when the neighbors don't really want her help? Find out in this charming early chapter book! -Kelsie
Weatherby and Jack, rivals in the prestigious Boston School's sailing team, seemingly have nothing in common and would rather capsize their boats than work together. But when they're both tapped to join the exclusive secret society known as The Last Heir, they soon find out they're actually in the same boat: lying is what got them there and keeping secrets is what will keep them afloat. An incredibly fast-paced mystery that you'll want to chase to the end! -Gigi
If, like me, you’re a fan of Jon Klassen’s delightfully deadpan picture books, then you’re sure to love his foray into chapter books! Inspired by a traditional Tyrolean folktale, The Skull nonetheless felt perfectly original and full of surprises. Klassen somehow manages to make what’s at heart a gentle tale of friendship and acceptance both hilarious and truly spooky! And the illustrations are stunning too, of course. This is the perfect ghoulish tale to take into the Fall season! -Claire
Young Adult
An incredible debut! Loved this story about sisters and magic, and finding yourself! The alternating timelines kept the story moving, and the magic was quite interesting. Can't wait to see what Vanessa Montalban writes next! -Jaya
What a beautifully written book! Rachel Griffin has become one of my favorite authors. She writes wonderfully, her characters are well-developed, the setting is incredible, and each book touches on environmental issues. Plus, the romances are such epic slow burns! I definitely recommend this book, and her others, to anyone who likes contemporary settings with touches of magic and romance. -Jaya
A lovely cozy season read! Daniel Sanchez’s story will be relatable to everyone who’s ever felt anxious about the differences that could set them apart. In Daniel’s case, he assumes being a nerdy, autistic photographer makes him a satellite in other peoples' orbits (spoiler alert: he’s wrong). There’s much to love here, whether it’s the cast of queer and neurodiverse characters or the evolving relationships between them. Bonus: it takes place in Minnesota! -Claire
Internet, power, and water are all delivered to us in ways we rarely think about. Hidden Systems' comics format makes it easy to see how the parts of each system are connected, how they work, and gives visual content to words we use but may not really understand. Nott includes history, considers how each of these systems has been constructed in ways that privilege and oppress, and proposes ways we could rebuild aging systems to make them less harmful to the environment. So much information, delivered delightfully well. -Joan
If you are looking for a page-turner that is both a thriller and a young love story—that is as deeply moving as it is thought-provoking—this is your book. Alberto struggles with mental illness and when accused of a crime, he is uncertain about his innocence. Many rally around him, including his friend (and quickly becoming his girlfriend) Grace. Alberto and Grace, along with others in their circle, go to great lengths to piece together what actually happened the day the crime was committed. I was instantly pulled into this story and the lives of these characters as they navigate a messy and complex world. —Holly
What better way to start 2024, the Year of the Dragon, than with *The* Dragon Book of the year! Sisters Faron and Elara end up at opposite sides of a war thought to be long over but is in fact just beginning. Faron might be chosen by the gods to be their vessel for power, but do they know more than they're letting on, and can Elara use her new bond with the enemy's dragon to her advantage? Super refreshing fantasy with dynamic characters, a strong debut to be on the lookout for! -Gigi
It was just a normal school day for Shur and her friends until she spotted the two foot long butterfly outside her classroom window. Not long after that the world fell into chaos as swarms of these abnormally large insects-with razor sharp teeth and a taste for violence-descended upon society. All Shur can do is hunker down with her friends and family and hope it'll all be over soon, but there's more to the fight for survival than just the butterflies. A horrifying thriller that felt like peak YA dystopia from the 2010s, I did not want to stop reading! -Gigi
Do you like thrilling heists? High stakes? Mysterious organizations? Thieving competitions?! I’ve got good news for you! Thieves’ Gambit follows Ross Quest, a prodigious thief (it runs in the family) who enters into a thieving contest in order to save her mother. As she plays, she wrestles with distrust of her peers and of the enigmatic, ultra-powerful people behind the competition. Kayvion Lewis has delivered on so many of the things that make “dangerous game” stories so compelling: exciting twists and turns, ambitious scope, a refreshing romantic interest, distinct and diverse characters…SO fun! -Claire
LOVED IT! Characters from The Firekeepers Daughter return for a thrilling heist that dives into big and often complex injustices facing Native communities. Not only did I fall in love and cheer for the young people in the book, I also learned A LOT. —Holly
Adult
Yes, Annie Bot is a robot book. Yes, Annie Bot is a book about sex and secrecy. But above all, Annie Bot is a book about autonomy in the context of a relationship between a man and a woman (who also happens to be a robot). Greer has created two characters who feel 100% real, and whose decisions are somehow both surprising and expected. One particularly poignant scene in a therapist’s office had me crying into my pillow. Please read Annie Bot, and then find me so we can talk about it! -Claire
Join this found-family team of misfits on their epic space adventure through a corporate run galaxy. This book by debut author L.M. Sagas has everything you could possibly want in a sci-fi novel--warm, likeable characters, witty banter, excellent worldbuilding, SO much action, and all kinds of awkward, adorable flirting, and pining. If you're hesitant to read sci-fi, please pick this book up! It has so much to offer for all kinds of readers, and I promise you'll have the time of your life with these characters! -Kelsie
Curl up under the Christmas tree to read about Hannah, Finn, and friends! A fun, cozy read about found family, traditions, and friends. You'll enjoy the ups and downs of the group's holiday shenanigans as they explore early adulthood, careers, romance, and what that means for the future of their tight knit group. -Kelly
This is a fun new title for fans of the Romantasy (romance-fantasy) genre. Following two elven sisters as they are banished to the Fae realm, a world they didn’t even know existed, we see them battle a prophecy and find love. This book includes a terrific sapphic romance and just the right amount of spice. Faebound is a good place to start if you want to try out the romantasy genre or if you want a diverse take on the tropes that are found in other books from that genre. Highly recommend. -Ursula
A mission into deep space begins with a lethal explosion that leaves the survivors questioning the loyalty of the crew. Following the point of view of “alternate” crew member Asuka, The Deep Sky was thrilling from start to finish. Looking at what it takes to survive in space as humanity’s last hope, this book was thought provoking but also fun. I thought that the use of flashbacks were well utilized and the relationships felt real. I look forward to reading more from this author in the future. —Ursula
This was great! Historical fiction but with all the fixings: a bit of magic, a detective following clues, a bit of romance, and multiple characters with (secretly) intertwined pasts. It has all the good stuff in just the right amounts. -Angela
A captivating read with many twists and turns. This story of two women with very different life experiences is told in alternating perspectives. My heart was racing and breaking as I followed Jasmine and Rebecca’s incredible challenges and the difficult choices they make when their worlds collide. A page turner that explores themes of motherhood, immigration, adoption, ambition, and so much more. Fans of Little Fires Everywhere will love this. -Holly
A delightful romance with some serious Ted Lasso vibes (and I couldn't be happier!) Great characters, amazing setting, and kids playing soccer—what more could you want? And, probably the most epic slow burn I have ever read! So good! -Jaya
When eccentric children's author Jack Masterson sent out four letters to childhood fans of his Clock Island series inviting them to visit his home in Maine, none of the guests imagined that they could win the manuscript of his final work. If sold, the money made from it could be life changing, and every guest has reason enough to want to play. What seems like a sinister plot is actually an incredibly heartwarming story about facing deep rooted fears and celebrating unconventional families. The audiobook was especially lovely! —Gigi
Kundnani’s international, historical approach traces the emergence of racism as capitalism developed, building a compelling case that these discrete entities are also inseparably entwined. He begins with the origins of the word “racism,” then moves through how it has been deployed by imperialism, to our current culture, which enforces racism through police violence, incarceration, anti-immigration, and anti-terrorism. He considers thinkers such as C.L.R. James, Claudia Jones, Frantz Fanon, and Aimé Césaire in this highly readable, well-organized, and thought-provoking book. -Joan
I absolutely LOVE this paranormal romance! This book is fun and delightful with great characters. Perfect for fans of True Blood (and Charlaine Harris's series), but it's a romance instead of urban fantasy. I really enjoyed the external plot, and that Mateo is a sculpture. Plus, New Orleans is a great location! I devoured (hehe) the whole series in a matter of days. Bonus: no 3rd act breakup!! -Jaya