Summer 2021 Picks

Long Ago, On a Silent Night

Long Ago, On a Silent Night

By Julie Berry | Annie Won | ISBN 9781338277722
Ages 0-3 | Picture Books | September 2019

In this poignant and lyrical story by Printz Honor recipient Julie Berry, the miracle of Christmas and the promise in every new child comes together in a luminous celebration of unconditional love and hope. With tender, incandescent illustrations by Annie Won, the wonder of the nativity story and the marvel of every baby comes alive in a wholly extraordinary book for families everywhere.

Goodnight, World

Goodnight, World  Canadian

By Andrea Lynn Beck | ISBN 9781443148658
Ages 2-6 | Picture Books | September 2019

Say good night to children all over the world in this companion to Goodnight, Canada! Children will explore connections and develop global awareness, as each intricate spread sets the scene at bedtime around the world. In an information section at the back of the book, the author provides more details on the home featured in each spread, often inspired by her own travels. Andrea says, "I have been lucky to travel to many places in the world and it has taught me that no matter where we live or how different we seem, we are the same in the most important ways..."

Two Tough Trucks

Two Tough Trucks  Canadian

By Corey Rosen Schwartz and Rebecca Gomez | Hilary Leung | ISBN 9781338236545
Ages 3- 5 | Picture Books | September 2019

Mack and Rig couldn't be more different. One loves the fast lane. The other, the off-ramp. But when they're forced to pair up on their first day of school, can Mack and Rig figure out a way to get along and learn what it really means to be a tough truck? Get ready to vroom and zoom your way to fun and friendship with these two lovable and tough trucks!

The Squirrels Who Squabbled

The Squirrels Who Squabbled

By Rachel Bright | Jim Field | ISBN 9781338538038
Ages 3- 5 | Picture Books | September 2019

Greedy squirrels Cyril and Bruce both have their sights on a very special prize: the last pinecone of the season. Uh-oh! The race is on! A laugh-out-loud tale about friendship and sharing by the bestselling duo behind The Lion Inside and The Koala Who Could.

The Incredible Freedom Machines

The Incredible Freedom Machines

By Kirli Saunders | Matt Ottley | ISBN 9781443170109
Ages 4-8 | Picture Books | September 2019

In this beautiful and thought-provoking story, a young girl dreams of having her very own incredible freedom machine-a machine that will allow her to break boundaries, explore the world and learn about herself. It seems, however, the machines are not so easy to come by. Will she have the perseverance to find a freedom machine that is just right for her? A beautiful celebration of the power of books-the ultimate freedom machines that fuel the imagination and break down all barriers.

Alfie, No!

Alfie, No!  Canadian

By Frieda Wishinsky | Emma Pedersen | ISBN 9781443133708
Ages 3-7 | Picture Books | September 2019

In this sweet, humorous story, award-winning author Frieda Wishinsky celebrates the value of harmless mischief, the joys of getting dirty, and the bond between a boy and his dog. Kids will delight in a fun twist that makes it clear just who is making the mess! Highlighting the value of friendship, imagination and outdoor play, this fun tale will ring true to the young and the young at heart.

The Great Santa Stakeout

The Great Santa Stakeout  Canadian

By Betsy Bird | Dan Santat | ISBN 9781338169980
Ages 4-8 | Picture Books | September 2019

Freddy Melcher is Santa’s #1 Fan. He has Santa posters, Santa action figures, and even Santa underwear. But there is one prize Freddy desperately wants: A photograph taken with Santa, fresh out of the chimney. Will Freddy get away with his delightfully devious scheme to outwit Santa Claus himself and capture the ultimate selfie?

Love and the Rocking Chair

Love and the Rocking Chair

By Scholastic Inc. | Leo Dillon and Diane Dillon | ISBN 9781338332650
Ages 3-5 | Picture Books | October 2019

Simple words and colorful paintings tell the warm, engaging story of new parents who buy a rocking chair when they are expecting a baby. Time passes, and the boy grows up; the beloved rocker is moved to the attic and gathers dust. But when the boy becomes a man, the cycle begins anew. He and his wife have a baby girl, and the rocking chair is needed again.

This is the final collaboration of legendary artists Leo and Diane Dillon, inspired by their own rocking chair. It is a tender tribute to the enduring power of family love-passed from generation to generation.

It’s Not All Rainbows

It’s Not All Rainbows  Canadian

By Jessika Von Innerebner | ISBN 9781443175265
Ages 4-8 | Picture Books | October 2019

Everyone knows unicorns are PERFECT. They are glamorous, glittery, happy creatures that bring sparkle to the world. But Kevin's day is just not going well . . . he wakes up not only on the wrong side of the bed-but on the floor! Even his Super-Perfect-Hair-Day Spray can't tame his mane. What's a unicorn to do?

It turns out that unicorns have bad days too-and that's perfectly okay!

Pig the Pug: Pig the Tourist

Pig the Pug: Pig the Tourist

By Aaron Blabey | ISBN 9781443175678
Ages 4-8 | Picture Books | October 2019

When Pig, the world's most selfish pug, goes on holiday, he causes chaos wherever he goes. The Sphinx loses more than just a nose, the Queen's corgis are in an uproar, and the Leaning Tower of Pisa is doomed. But every party must come to an end. And it does-a sore one for Pig, when he finally learns that if you disrespect the locals, they might just bite back.

River

River

By Elisha Cooper | ISBN 9781338312263
Ages 4-8 | Picture Books | October 2019

A breathtaking adventure as a traveler and her canoe begin their trek down the Hudson River. River is an outstanding introduction to seeing the world through the eyes of a young explorer and a great picture book for the STEAM curriculum. Maps and information about the Hudson River and famous landmarks are included in the back of the book.

Guts

Guts

By Raina Telgemeier | ISBN 9780545852500
Ages 8-12 | PB | Middle-Grade | September 2019
Also available in HC: 9780545852517

Raina wakes up one night with a terrible upset stomach. Her mom has one, too, so it's probably just a bug. Raina eventually returns to school, where she's dealing with the usual highs and lows: friends, not-friends, and classmates who think the school year is just one long gross-out session. It soon becomes clear that Raina's tummy trouble isn't going away... and it coincides with her worries about food, school, and changing friendships. What's going on? Raina Telgemeier once again brings us a thoughtful, charming, and funny true story about growing up and gathering the courage to face — and conquer — her fears.

Go Away, Unicorn

Go Away, Unicorn  Canadian

By Emily Mullock | ISBN 9781338575712
Ages 4-8 | Middle-Grade | September 2019

The original storybook that inspired the animated TV show on Disney Channel! Go Away, Unicorn is a funny, quirky book about the misadventures of an independent young girl, Alice, and her unicorn best friend, who constantly pops in and out of her life unannounced. Though she would never admit it, Unicorn's zany and unpredictable personality is the perfect addition to Alice's busy life . . . even though sometimes he can really be a horn in her side.

City of Ghosts #2: Tunnel of Bones

City of Ghosts #2: Tunnel of Bones

By Victoria Schwab | ISBN 9781338111040
Ages 9-12 | Middle-Grade | September 2019

Trouble is haunting Cassidy Blake . . . even more than usual. She (plus her ghost best friend, Jacob, of course) are in Paris, where Cass's parents are filming their TV show about the world's most haunted cities. When Cass accidentally awakens a frighteningly strong spirit, she must rely on her still-growing skills as a ghosthunter — and turn to friends both old and new to help her unravel a mystery. If Cass fails, the force she's unleashed could haunt the city forever!

Wildfire

Wildfire

By Rodman Philbrick | ISBN 9781338266900
Ages 8-12 | Middle-Grade | September 2019

Newbery Honor author Rodman Philbrick sends readers straight into the nightmare of a raging wildfire as 13-year-old Sam is trapped by explosive flames and deadly smoke that threaten to take his life. As he tries to escape he encounters Delphy, an older girl who is also lost. Though an unlikely friendship, a powerful bond is forged that can only grow out of true hardship — as two true friends beat all odds and outwit one of the deadliest fires ever.

Allies

Allies

By Alan Gratz | ISBN 9781338245721
Ages 9-12 | Middle-Grade | October 2019

Alan Gratz, author of the New York Times bestselling Refugee, explores the necessity of teamwork and heroism in dismantling tyranny in this epic, yet personal, look at D-Day in time for the 75th anniversary of the operation. No less than world cooperation would bring down Hitler and the Axis powers. Allies explores different narratives demonstrating the people — and kids — across the globe that lent their part.

Words on Fire

Words on Fire

By Jennifer A Nielsen | ISBN 9781338275476
Ages 8-12 | Middle-Grade | October 2019

Danger is never far from Audra's family farm in Lithuania. She always avoids the occupying Russian Cossack soldiers, who insist that everyone must become Russian — they have banned Lithuanian books, religion, culture, and even the language. But Audra knows her parents are involved in something secret and perilous. When her parents are taken as prisoners, Audra is left with the perilous task of delivering a mysterious package. Can joining the underground network of book smugglers give Audra a chance to rescue her parents?

The Year We Fell From Space

The Year We Fell From Space

By Amy Sarig King | ISBN 9781338236361
Ages 8-12 | Middle-Grade | October 2019

Liberty Johansen is going to change the way we look at the night sky. Most people see the old constellations, the things they've been told to see. But Liberty sees new patterns, pictures, and possibilities. Liberty feels like her whole world is falling from space, as she deals with family issues including her father who’s moved out of the house, her mother who’s been acting happy rather than sad, and a sister who refuses to go outside. Can she map a new life for herself and her family before they spin too far out of reach?

Legends of the Sky: Dragon Daughter

Legends of the Sky: Dragon Daughter

By Liz Flanagan | ISBN 9781338349665
Ages 8-12 | Middle-Grade | October 2019

On the island of Arcosi, dragons and their riders used to rule the skies. But now they are only legends, found in bedtime stories, on beautiful murals and ancient jewelry. When servant girl Milla witnesses a murder and finds herself caring for the last four dragon eggs, she is forced to keep them secret amidst the growing tensions in the city. Fiery friendships, forgotten family and the struggle for power collide as Milla's fight to save the dragons leads her to discover her own hidden past. A rich and magical fantasy that touches on the questions of politics, war, and immigration.

Finding Cooper

Finding Cooper  Canadian

By Stacey Matson | ISBN 9781443163415
Ages 9-12 | Middle-Grade | September 2019

Twelve-year-old Cooper believes that his grandfather-who is living in a locked Alzheimer's ward-is actually D. B. Cooper, the famous (real) skyjacker who secured a small fortune and vanished in 1971. Cooper sets out to prove his grandfather's true identity and uncover one of the biggest secrets in modern history. Full of human insight and humour, this is a fast-paced book with an intriguing mystery at its core. With Matson's deft touch, it's also a witty and touching story about family and what we find when we have to face losing those we love.

The Seventh Voyage

The Seventh Voyage

By Stanislaw Lem | Jon J. Muth | ISBN 9780545004626
Ages 8-12 | Middle-Grade | October 2019

Ijon Tichy is caught in a TIME LOOP. Alone in his broken spaceship — with no one there to help him — he could remain trapped in space indefinitely! But soon something strange begins to happen: Tichy's past and future selves appear. And rather than helping one another, they bicker and fight as they crowd into the tiny vessel. Will Tichy stop fighting with himself long enough to save his own life?

Stanislaw Lemhas’ story has been adapted into a brilliant graphic novel by Caldecott Honor and Eisner Award-winning artist Jon J Muth.

The Sixties Trilogy #3: Anthem

The Sixties Trilogy #3: Anthem

By Deborah Wiles | ISBN 9780545106092
Ages 9-12 | Middle-Grade | October 2019

It's 1969. Cousins Molly and Norman get on a bus to find her brother Barry, who has run away after having a fight with their father over the war in Vietnam. Now Barry's been drafted into that war. They end up seeing a lot more of America that they'd ever imagined. From protests and parades to roaring races and rock n' roll, the cousins make their way to Barry in San Francisco, not really knowing what they'll find when they get there.

Caster

Caster  Canadian

By Elsie Chapman | ISBN 9781338332629
Ages 12 and up | Young Adult | September 2019

Aza Wu knows that real magic is dangerous and illegal. After all, casting killed her sister, Shire, who had been casting for money to pay off Saint Willow, the gang leader that oversees her sector of Lotusland. Now, with her sister dead, Aza must step in to save the legacy of Wu Teas, the teahouse that has been in her family for centuries. So when she receives an invitation to a secret underground magic fighting tournament, she accepts. But the stakes couldn’t be higher — if the magic doesn’t kill her, the truth just might.

The Dreamer Trilogy, Book 1: Call Down the Hawk

The Dreamer Trilogy, Book 1: Call Down the Hawk

By Maggie Stiefvater | ISBN 9781338188325
Ages 12 and up | Young Adult | November 2019

From the bestselling author of The Raven Boys, a mesmerizing story of dreams and desires, death and destiny. Call Down the Hawk brings back reader-favourite Ronan Lynch in a world where dreamers and the dreamed live in a precarious balance.

Fake (Point Paperbacks)

Fake (Point Paperbacks)

By Donna Cooner | ISBN 9781338239492
Ages 12 and up | Young Adult | October 2019

Maisie Fernandez is fed up. Fed up with the bullies who taunt her about her size and her looks. Fed up with being the butt of everyone's jokes. So, one night, Maisie goes online and creates a fake profile, "Sienna" to target the popular kids. The mission: use Sienna to take them down. But as Maisie's web of deception grows, she's in danger of being exposed. And what will happen when the actual Sienna — the girl whose photos Maisie has been using — shows up in real life?

Take the Mic: Fictional Stories of Everyday Resistance

Take the Mic: Fictional Stories of Everyday Resistance

By Bethany Morrow | ISBN 9781338343700
Ages 12 and up | Young Adult | October 2019

A young adult anthology featuring fictional stories of everyday resistance. This anthology features fictional stories—in poems, prose, and art—that reflect a slice of the varied and limitless ways that readers like you resist every day. Take The Mic's powerful collection of stories features work by literary luminaries and emerging talent alike.

Tarnished Are the Stars

Tarnished Are the Stars

By Rosiee Thor | ISBN 9781338312270
Ages 14 and up | Young Adult | October 2019

The Lunar Chronicles meets Rook in this queer #OwnVoices science-fantasy novel!

A secret beats inside Anna Thatcher's chest: An illegal clockwork heart. Anna works cog by cog — donning the moniker Technician — to supply black market medical technology to the sick and injured, against the Commissioner's tyrannical laws. Anna finds herself among a group of uneasy allies, including the Commissioner’s son and Eliza, a skilled assassin and spy. This unlikely group must work together despite their differences and put an end to a deadly epidemic — before the Commissioner ends them first.

Shadowscent

Shadowscent

By P.M. Freestone | ISBN 9781338335446
Ages 12 and up | Young Adult | November 2019

Across the Aramtesh Empire, scent is everything and perfumes are prized status symbols. 17-year-old Rakel has an uncanny ability with fragrances. Lured by mysterious smoke, Rakel and Ash – an imperial bodyguard with a dangerous secret – cross paths at a field of the Empire’s rarest flower. The prince has been poisoned, flames devour the priceless blooms, and they are the only suspects. The unlikely duo’s futures depend on them working together to decipher clues, defy dangers and defeat their own demons in a race to source an antidote . . . before the imperial army hunts them down.

Keep Up, Katmai

Keep Up, Katmai  Canadian

By Pili Palm-Leis | Photographs by Barrett Hedges | ISBN 9781443163767
Ages 3-8 | Non-Fiction | October 2019

Keep Up, Katmai is a remarkable up-close view into an inquisitive real grizzly cub's day, with stunning photographs shot by renowned wildlife photographer Barrett Hedges. Young readers will cheer for Katmai, the smallest of the cubs, as we follow her day. The incredible collection of photos results in a beautiful introduction to this incredible, endangered species, and a wonderful story celebrating the love between parents and their children. Back of book material includes a fascinating interview with author Pili Palm-Leis and photographer Barrett Hedges.

Everything Awesome About Dinosaurs and Other Prehistoric Beasts

Everything Awesome About Dinosaurs and Other Prehistoric Beasts

By Mike Lowery | ISBN 9781338359725
Ages 7-10 | Non-Fiction | October 2019

The Boys' Book of Survival meets Dav Pilkey with a prehistoric twist, in this definitive, go-to book about EVERYTHING you EVER wanted to know about dinosaurs. Discover the must-have book for dinosaur enthusiasts, a madcap field guide full of facts and Mike Lowery’s signature comic style, and learn everything you ever wanted to know about prehistoric beasts!

The Brain is Kind of a Big Deal

The Brain is Kind of a Big Deal

By Nick Seluk | ISBN 9781338167009
Ages 6-8 | Non-Fiction | October 2019

Have you ever thought about everything your brain does for you? Using his signature humor and comic style art, Nick Seluk — the New York Times bestselling creator of Heart and Brain — explains the science behind everything the brain helps you do: keeping your heart beating, telling you when you are sleepy, remembering stuff, and more. Funny, smart, and accessible, The Brain is Kind of a Big Deal is a must-have!

Nic Bishop Big Cats

Nic Bishop Big Cats

By Nic Bishop | ISBN 9780545605779
Ages 4-8 | Non-Fiction | October 2019

With breathtaking full-page images, Sibert Medal-winning photographer Nic Bishop introduces readers to a variety of beautiful and stealthy big cats. Learn about the appearance, habits, and remarkable abilities of these amazing felines. Get a behind-the-scenes experience via the author’s note, which details his research and fun stories behind the photographs! Includes a glossary and index.

Now You Know What You Eat

Now You Know What You Eat

By Valorie Fisher | ISBN 9781338215465
Ages 4-7 | Non-Fiction | October 2019

From peanut butter and jelly sandwiches to macaroni and cheese, Valorie Fisher explores the science behind our most delicious dishes! With the help of bold, eye-catching yet simple graphics, inquisitive minds will love discovering what makes popcorn pop, why bread rises, and how bees make honeycomb. With a growing focus on STEM for this early age group, this book encourages readers to ask their own questions about the world around them, and to fall in love with discovering the answers! Includes a glossary, and a graphic about the food groups, as well as an introduction to vitamins and minerals.

Child of the Dream (A Memoir of 1963)

Child of the Dream (A Memoir of 1963)

By Sharon Robinson | ISBN 9781338282801
Ages 8-12 | Non-Fiction | September 2019

In January of 1963, Sharon Robinson turned 13 the night before George Wallace declared on national television "segregation now, segregation tomorrow, segregation forever" in his inauguration for governor of Alabama. Follow Sharon’s journey as she grapples with going through puberty, being one of the only black children in her wealthy Connecticut neighborhood, and figuring out her own role in the fight for equality, all while getting a front row seat to the most important events of the era, like her family hosting fundraisers for Martin Luther King Jr. and attending the March on Washington for Freedom and Jobs.

Her Own Two Feet: A Rwandan Girl’s Brave Fight to Walk

Her Own Two Feet: A Rwandan Girl’s Brave Fight to Walk

By Meredith Davis and Rebeka Uwitonze | ISBN 9781338356373
Ages 8-12 | Non-Fiction | October 2019

Rebeka Uwitonze was born in Rwanda with curled and twisted feet, which meant she had to crawl or be carried to get around. At nine-years-old, she gets a life changing offer from a U.S. doctor, who might be able to turn her feet. Despite knowing almost no English, Rebeka leaves her family behind and travels to Austin, Texas, to join the Davis family. Told through Rebekah’s eyes, with the help of one of her hosts, this stunning debut is about hope, perseverance, and what becomes possible when you take a risk.

Nazi Saboteurs: Hitler’s Secret Attack on America

Nazi Saboteurs: Hitler’s Secret Attack on America

By Samantha Seiple | ISBN 9781338259148
Ages 9-12 | Non-Fiction | December 2019

In 1942, amid a growing German threat, Nazi agents infiltrated the United States in hopes of destroying American infrastructure and sowing panic throughout the nation. Nazi Saboteurs tells the nail-biting tale of this daring plot, buried in history, for young readers for the first time. Black-and-white historical photos throughout paint a picture of a nation on edge, the FBI caught unawares, and the incredible capture of eight dangerous criminals. A thrilling historical narrative for WWII buffs, reluctant readers, and adventure junkies.

Je suis humain

Je suis humain  Canadian

By Susan Verde | Peter H Reynolds | ISBN 9781443176347
Ages 4 and up | French | October 2019

Un regard contemplatif et rempli d'espoir sur les joies et les défis des êtres humains. Je suis humain démontre qu'il est normal de faire des erreurs. Un sourire et un mot gentil sont toujours les bienvenus.

Cet album est une célébration de l'empathie et de la compassion qui permet aux enfants de comprendre que nous faisons tous partie de la même grande famille d'humains imparfaits. Un exercice de méditation guidée se trouve à la fin du livre.

A hopeful meditation on all the great (and challenging) parts of being human, Je suis humain shows that it's okay to make mistakes while also emphasizing the power of good choices by offering a kind word or smile or by saying "I'm sorry." At its heart, this picture book is a celebration of empathy and compassion that lifts up the flawed fullness of humanity and encourages children to see themselves as part of one big imperfect family millions strong.

Original title: I Am Human: A Book of Empathy

Courage

Courage

By Raina Telgemeier | ISBN 9781443177184
Ages 8 – 12 | French | November 2019

Une vraie histoire de Raina Telgemeier, la bédéiste à succès de Souris!, Soeurs, Drame et Fantômes.

Un soir, Raina se réveille avec des maux d'estomac. Comme sa mère en souffre aussi, elle se dit que c'est probablement une gastro. Raina retourne à l'école où elle vit les mêmes hauts et bas que d'habitude. Elle se rend compte que ses problèmes d'estomac coïncident avec ses inquiétudes envers la nourriture, l'école et les amitiés changeantes. Que se passe-t-il donc?

Raina Telgemeier nous revient avec une histoire personnelle à la fois réfléchie, charmante et drôle. Elle met l'accent sur le passage à l'adolescence et le courage qu'il faut trouver pour faire face à nos peurs et les surmonter.

A true story from Raina Telgemeier, the #1 New York Times bestselling, multiple Eisner Award-winning author of Souris!, Soeurs, Drame, and Fantômes.

Raina wakes up one night with a terrible upset stomach. Her mom has one, too, so it's probably just a bug. Raina eventually returns to school, where she's dealing with the usual highs and lows: friends, not-friends, and classmates who think the school year is just one long gross-out session. It soon becomes clear that Raina's tummy trouble isn't going away... and it coincides with her worries about food, school, and changing friendships. What's going on?

Raina Telgemeier once again brings us a thoughtful, charming, and funny true story about growing up and gathering the courage to face — and conquer — her fears.

Original title: Guts

Art © 2021 by Victo Ngai from Wishes by Mượn Thị Văn. All rights reserved.