Best of April
Best of March
Alice with a Why
by Anna James
You know, I think if Lewis Carroll could be here now, he would have written a book very like this one.
The First Rule of Climate Club
by Carrie Firestone
In this middle grade contemporary, the school starts a pilot program for kids interested in learning and being active about the state of the environment. I really appreciate how this book explores the complexity of race, gender, class, finances, and so much more instead of just focusing on "pollution bad."
Once Upon a Tim
by Stuart Gibbs
Tim has discovered that being a peasant isn't that great, so in this illustrated middle grade, he sets out to become a knight and help out a nobleman. I appreciated the way this book was pretending to be educational while mostly just being silly and fun.
Falling in Love with my Vampire Cat
by Camilla Evergreen
Listen, I know how this looks, but I promise this is one of the most wholesome, clean, cozy, and humorous romances you're likely to find. Yes, the paranormal aspect is weird, but it's well done.
Best of February
A Family is a Family is a Family
by Sara O'Leary
Although one student is a little shy about sharing her unique family situation, as the class explores how everyone's family is different, they realize that they all have one thing in common: a commitment to be there for one another.
Around the World in 80 Plants
by Jonathan Drori
Explore the world, crossing continents to find plants of significance in a variety of communities. From edible plants to those used for crafting and building, as well as a few unique ones that you just can't help but stare at, this book invites you to learn a lot and enjoy the view.
Every Word You Cannot Say
by Iain S. Thomas
Feeling a little lonely and sad and rejected? This awkward poetry reads like a comforting letter from a friend, carefully crafted to avoid being overly fawning or sappy and instead nudging toward healing and self-love.
The Lions' Den
by Iris Mwanza
Grace is taking on her first big case as a lawyer, trying to step out of poverty and earn a name for herself outside the obligation to get married, but while she's passionate and determined, it's unclear if anyone else supports the cause of one gay teenager who's turned up missing under police custody. This high-stakes contemporary adventure set in Zambia took me entirely by surprise, in the best way, introducing me to a culture I'd never thought much about and reminding us that it's not just the rich and powerful who can make a difference.
A Plan for Pops
by Heather Smith and Brooke Kerrigan
A little boy loves spending time with his grandpas, but one day, Pops gets sick and doesn't feel like adventuring anymore, so Grandpa and the boy make a plan. Sweet and beautifully illustrated, this book centralizes an older gay couple while also generously showing a child making kind and thoughtful choices.
Best of January
The Remarkable Retirement of Edna Fisher
by E.M. Anderson
Edna is eager to escape the nursing home, and being selected as the chosen one seems like a great way out, even if she has to take her walker along on the adventure. Humorous, sweet, cozy, and full of adventure.
Aggie and the Ghost
by Matthew Forsythe
Aggie moves into a house in this lengthy picture book, only to find that the ghost won't leave her alone, so they must find a way to get along. This book is an honest take on what being roommates is actually like, all accompanied by stunning illustrations.
All the Things The Said We Couldn't Have
by T.C. Oakes-Monger
Divided into seasonal vignettes, this book reminds us that coming out as trans isn't just about dealing with transphobia, and being authentic is worth it. Yes, this book is messy, but it's so heartfelt, the rough edges become part of the charm.
Humble Pi
by Matt Parker
So, math is hard, but sometimes failing to check one's work results in real-world consequences. I found this book both entertaining and informative, one I'd like to come back to when I'm feeling down on myself for making a mistake.
Nature Poems to See By
by Julian Peters
A breathtaking blend of beloved poems set to illustrations. See your favorite poems brought to life.
Semicolon: The past, present, and future of a misunderstood mark
by Cecelia Watson
Remember the good old days when people used correct grammar? Yeah, me neither. This snarky book takes a look at both the essentials of the semicolon and subtly pokes holes in the logic of grammar snobbery.
Starfell: Willow Moss and the Lost Day
by Dominique Valente
Willow Moss has the rare but seemingly useless power of finding lost things, so when Tuesday goes missing, she collects a group of unlikely allies and sets out to find it, discovering some hard and beautiful truths along the way. This middle grade book deals with grief and community in ways both breathtaking and full of warm laughter.
Yellow Kayak
by Nina Laden and Melissa Castrillon
A gentle rhyming picture book about going away and coming back again. Honestly, just a really cozy read with gentle classic style illustrations.
