New books are springing up all over the library! Click on the titles below to read more or place a hold on these books or stop by the new shelves soon to see all the great new books we have in.
My Top 10 this year is in no particular order because all of the titles below were absolutely amazing and it would have been way too difficult to rank them.
Christian Robinson is one of my all time favorite illustrators so the cover of this picture book lured me in. Matt de la Pena’s story of a young boy named Milo who imagines the life of other passengers on a long subway ride as he learns that first impressions aren’t always what they seem coupled with the books vivid art is one that tugged on my heartstrings and stuck with me all year .
Don’t let the charming illustrations fool you. As you explore Zonia’s beautiful home, you will find a powerful message about deforestation and the effect on the communities that call the rain forest home.
I’ve been struggling to find a Young Adult book that keeps my attention but this one grabbed me and didn’t let go. The blend of suspense, Ojibwe knowledge and lore, and real issues relating to drugs and racism along with well-developed characters made it impossible to put down.
Believe it or not, when the staff here make our lists each year, we try to be aware of what each other is adding to make sure we don’t have too many duplicate titles. That said, some titles are worth listing twice and this is one of them. The illustrations in this book are a feast for the eyes and made me think of what it’s like to be a child and believe in hidden worlds right under our own noses. Though each of the four stories are wonderful stand-alone tales, the final chapter makes them all come full circle.
Full disclosure, this title was actually released in 2020 but since we didn’t get it in until 2021, I’m letting it slide onto this list. The topics in this book are hard. Foster care. Sexual abuse. Tough tough stuff that is often avoided in middle grade books, but there is a need for books like this that give a voice to victims and a window to advocates. What I was most impressed by was Bradley’s ability to take such complex and heavy topics and introduce them in a way that allows a middle grade reader to know what’s going on without being overwhelmed by overly graphic information. There’s with a good dose of humor and heart sprinkled throughout that ties it all together so well. If you’re looking for a good audiobook, I highly recommend this one as it is read by Bahni Turpin who is absolutely amazing.
We are always looking for great stories that can help kids make sense of things they are experiencing in their own lives so I was so grateful to see this book come to our library. This books deals with the topic of depression, poverty, and family in a gentle way that kids can connect with regardless of their personal experience.
The vibrant illustrations of this story pulled me in, but the sweet story won me over. It’s a nice reminder that despite the differences that exist between generations, the love we share draws us together.
Losing a grandparent is so very hard, and there are many books out there about it. This one stands above because while it does talk about grief and what that looks like, the characters work through it together through stories and actions that truly honor the memory of their loved one.
Honorable Mention
Cutting my list down to just 10 titles is so hard, so here are a few titles that were soooo close to making the cut I couldn’t leave them out!
Illustrated poem written originally when the author, who has autism, was 10, this picture book captures the universal feelings of being new or different.
Black boy joy / edited by Kwame Mbalia ; stories by: B.B. Alston [and 16 others]
This book of diverse short stories of black boyhood from notable authors is a joy to read.
Lyrical, heartbreaking book with a timely message, reminding children that they will always be “bright stars” in their loved ones’ hearts, despite circumstances.
Dear Mr. Dickens / Nancy Churnin ; illustrated by Bethany Stancliffe
Interesting story of Eliza Davis, a fan of Charles Dickens who wrote the author, imploring him to change his hurtful and harmful description of Jewish characters.
Humorous, quirky and fun read with a deeper message that is up for interpretation, like Agee’s other works.
Making a baby / Rachel Greener ; Clare Owen Well-illustrated, inclusive informational book about pregnancy and conception, with information on IVF and surrogacy as well, and different birth options.
Three ways to be brave : a trio of stories / words by Karla Clark ; art by Jeff Östberg This gorgeously illustrated book highlights everyday instances of a child conquering fears.
Important work detailing the Tulsa Race Massacre, with Floyd Cooper’s powerful illustrations and personal connection making the book especially moving.
Be sure to also check out these additional 2021 standouts!
May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month! Check out these great AAPI books to celebrate. Click on the links below to go to the catalog.