Levine Querido – serie

MILDRED L. BATCHELDER HONOR WINNERSchool Library Journal Best of the YearBCCB Best of the Year (Blue Ribbon Selection)A beautiful slice-of-life story that isThis One Summer meets Ursula K. Le Guin'sVery Far Away from Anywhere Else, told in flashbacks16-year-old Raquel lives in a small town in Portugal, the kind of place where everyone knows everyone else's business. Her parents are divorced and she's just been suspended for cursing out a school aide asking about her father's new marriage. She has two best friends, Luísa and Fred, but wants something more. Then, from afar, she sees Pardalita, a senior and a gifted artist who's moving to Lisbon to study in the fall. The two girls get to know each other whileworking on a play. And Raquel falls in love.Using a gorgeous blend of prose poems, illustrations, and graphic novel format, author and artist Joana Estrela captures the feeling of being a teenager in a way that feels gentle, joyful, and real.P R A I S E★ "Intimate. . .Through a fledgling queer romance, the creator presents a story of change, connection, and transformation."-Publishers Weekly (starred)★ The elegant simplicity of this book belies the artistic depth and emotional resonance contained within. Will leave readers in quiet, piercing satisfaction.-Booklist (starred)★ "A leisurely, emotional stroll through a slice-of-life story that explores identity and sexuality in an authentically sweet and subtle way."-School Library Journal (starred)★ "The writing style is intriguing and deliberate. . . the slice-of-life approach working perfectly with Estrela's creative vision in switching up formats to best convey Raquel's intense and powerful self-discovery. . .this tender, warm book will likely enchant all romantic fans."-BCCB (starred)"Effectively conveys adolescent turmoil, the heady intoxication of first love, and sweet moments of connection as young queer love blossoms. The book's strength lies in its careful presentation of telling details. Quietly resonant and sincerely told."-Kirkus Reviews

WINNER, MICHAEL L. PRINTZ AWARDWINNER, CHRISTOPHER AWARDWINNER, MIDDLE EAST BOOK AWARDWALTER AWARD HONORNational BestsellerNPR Best of the YearNew York Times Best of the YearAmazon Best of the YearBooklist Editors' ChoiceBookPage Best of the YearPublishers Weekly Best of the YearWall Street Journal Best of the YearToday.com Best of the YearNECBA Windows & Mirrors Selection"A modern masterpiece."-New York Times"Supple, sparkling and original."-Wall Street Journal"Mesmerizing."-TODAY.com"This book could change the world."-BookPage"Like nothing else you've read or ever will read."-Linda Sue Park"It hooks you right from the opening line."-NPR★ "A modern epic."-Kirkus Reviews, starred review★ "A rare treasure of a book."-Publishers Weekly (starred)★ "A story that soars."-The Bulletin (starred)★ "At once beautiful and painful."-School Library Journal (starred)★ "Raises the literary bar in children's lit."-Booklist (starred)★ "Poignant and powerful."-Foreword Reviews (starred)★ "One of the most extraordinary books of the year."-BookPage (starred)A sprawling, evocative, and groundbreaking autobiographical novel told in the unforgettable and hilarious voice of a young Iranian refugee. It is a powerfully layered novel that poses the questions: Who owns the truth? Who speaks it? Who believes it?"A patchwork story is the shame of the refugee," Nayeri writes early in the novel. In an Oklahoman middle school, Khosrou (whom everyone calls Daniel) stands in front of a skeptical audience of classmates, telling the tales of his family's history, stretching back years, decades, and centuries. At the core is Daniel's story of how they became refugees-starting with his mother's vocal embrace of Christianity in a country that made such a thing a capital offense,and continuing through their midnight flight from the secret police, bribing their way onto a plane-to-anywhere. Anywhere becomes the sad, cement refugee camps of Italy, and then finally asylum in the U.S.Implementing a distinct literary style and challenging western narrative structures, Nayeri deftly weaves through stories of the long and beautiful history of his family in Iran, adding a richness of ancient tales and Persian folklore. Like Scheherazade of One Thousand and One Nights, Daniel spins a tale to save his own life: to stake his claim to the truth.A tale of heartbreak and resilience and urges readers to speak their truth and be heard.- Daniel is a major force and one of the youngest publishers in the industry.- He's an #OwnVoices author, public speaker, and storyteller.- A pulled-from-the headlines immigrant story.- Thematically relevant as immigration stories take center stage in politics, news, and media in 2020.- Daniel challenges how we tell stories by using traditional Persian folk tales- A fantastic literary whirlwind that questions western narrative structures.

One of TIME Magazine's Top 100 Fantasy Novels of All Time - Now in Paperback!Locus Award Winner-Best First Novel A National Indie BestsellerNebula Award FinalistLodestar Award FinalistIgnyte Award FinalistTIME's Best 100 Fantasy Books of All TimeNPR Best of the YearBooklist's Top 10 First Novels for YouthA BookPage Best of the YearChicago Public Library Best of the BestPNBA Bestseller Publishers Weekly Best of the YearBuzzfeed's Best YA SFF of the Year Shelf-Awareness Best of the YearAICL Best YA of the YearNECBA Windows & Mirrors SelectionNEIBA Award Finalist Tor Best of the YearKirkus Best YA of the YearPublishers Weekly Flying StartAmerican Indian Youth Literature Award Finalist"Groundbreaking." -TIME"Deeply enjoyable from start to finish."-NPR"Utterly magical." -SyFyWire"Atmospheric and lyrical. . . a gorgeous work of art."-BuzzFeed"One of the best YA debuts of 2020. Read it.-Marieke Nijkamp★ "A fresh voice and perspective."-Booklist, starred review★ "A unique and powerful Native American voice."-BookPage, starred review ★ "A brilliant, engaging debut."-Kirkus Reviews, starred review★ "A fast-paced murder mystery."-Publishers Weekly, starred review★ "A Lipan Apache Sookie Stackhouse for the teen set." -Shelf-Awareness, starred reviewA Texas teen comes face-to-face with a cousin's ghost and vows to unmask the murderer.Elatsoe-Ellie for short-lives in an alternate contemporary America shaped by the ancestral magics and knowledge of its Indigenous and immigrant groups. She can raise the spirits of dead animals-most importantly, her ghost dog Kirby. When her beloved cousin dies, all signs point to a car crash, but his ghost tells her otherwise: He was murdered.Who killed him and how did he die? With the help of her family, her best friend Jay, and the memory great, great, great, great, great, great grandmother, Elatsoe, must track down the killer and unravel the mystery of this creepy town and it's dark past. But will the nefarious townsfolk and a mysterious Doctor stop her before she gets started?The breathtaking debut novel from Darcie Little Badger features an asexual, Apache teen protagonist - and combines mystery, horror, noir, ancestral knowledge, haunting illustrations, and fantasy elements, in one of the most-talked-about books in years.

A profound exploration of how friendship can break through barriers of time and circumstance. Cat Min introduces two unforgettable characters who become friends despite the challenges.NOW AVAILABLE IN SPANISH AS El sombrito y la fantasma!Shinbi is not a particularly ghosty ghost. At night she likes making tiny bouquets of things, and gazing at the far away stars. Haunting? Not so much. Even if that’s what the other ghosts like.In the daytime, in a meadow, sits a single rock, casting a single shadow, named Greem. He’d really like someone to talk to. But who? He writes one word on his lonely rock: “Hi” and hopes someone will see it. Sure enough, in the darkness of night, Shinbi finds the note! But who could have written it?P R A I S E★ “Will leave viewers in awe. May the stars align for young readers to share this heartwarming picture book with their precious friends no matter how far apart they are."—Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books (starred)“In this unique fable linking two worlds, their wonders aglow in rich color washes, author-illustrator Min uses inventive compositions and striking contrasts to illuminate this friendship defined—but not confined—by night and day.”—Booklist“A friendship that transcends barriers of embodiment and time anchors this starry creation… a work of breathless connection that interweaves yearning for companionship with yearning to know the natural world.”—PublishersWeekly“A joyful celebration of friendship, the stars, and finding one’s self in this world and beyond.”—Kirkus“What a stunning book! A clever and sweet story of finding a friend with gorgeous, whimsical illustrations.”—Tildy Lutts, Belmont Books

“A deeply moving exploration of life after death, making peace with regret and life’s inevitabilities, and learning how to move on.” —Publishers Weekly Best of the Year: BookPage - NYPL - Chicago Public Library - Kirkus - CCBCDay 1Gotta get up. Gotta keep moving. This map – it says I have to cross over here. Wait, what’s that…?And so begins a graphic novel story unlike any other: 49 Days. In Buddhist tradition, a person must travel for forty-nine days after they die, before they can fully cross over. Here in this book, readers travel with one Korean American girl, Kit, on her journey, while also spending time with her family and friends left behind.Agnes Lee has captivated readers across the world for years with her illustrations for the New York Times Metropolitan Diary. Her debut graphic novel is an unforgettable story of death, grief, love, and how we keep moving forward. P R A I S E★ “49 Days is an unusual, profoundly moving graphic novel whose elegance belies its complexity and whose emotional impact only grows upon rereading.” —BookPage (starred)★ “A gorgeous, resonating, even mystical creation with little text, overflowing with unsaid feelings... Gently, nudgingly, Lee brilliantly intertwines the past, present, and future.”—Booklist (starred)★ “A moving portrayal of mortality and its aftermath.” —Kirkus (starred)“Middle and high school readers will relate to the universal experiences of love, loss, and family tradition.”—School Library Journal“Expressive, fluid…an exemplar of what it means to trust the audience.” —Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books

NATIONAL BESTSELLERIn this breathtaking work of Indigenous futurism, Darcie Little Badger weaves an unforgettable tale of monsters, magic, and family Nina is a Lipan girl in our world. She’s always felt there was something more out there. She still believes in the old stories.Oli is a cottonmouth kid, from the land of spirits and monsters. Like all cottonmouths, he’s been cast from home. He's found a new one on the banks of the bottomless lake.Nina and Oli have no idea the other exists. But a catastrophic event on Earth, and a strange sickness that befalls Oli’s best friend, will drive their worlds together in ways they haven’t been in centuries.And there are some who will kill to keep them apart. BEST OF THE YEARMinneapolis Star Tribune • Publishers Weekly • Kirkus • Apple Books • New York Public Library • Chicago Public Library • AutostraddleAWARDSNEBULA AWARD WINNERNEWBERY AWARD HONORAMERICAN INDIAN YOUTH LITERATURE AWARD HONORNATIONAL BOOK AWARD LONGLISTP R A I S E“A spellbinding tale.” —Texas Monthly“Genre-bending.”—TIME“Undeniably charming.”—Tor.com★ “Evokes the timeless feeling of listening to traditional oral storytelling.”—Kirkus (starred) ★ “Fun, imaginative, and deeply immersive, this story will be long in the minds of readers.”—Publishers Weekly (starred)★ “Magical, stunning, and wholly original.”—Booklist (starred)“A highly descriptive story which absorbs the audience into its world, readers will become invested in reading until the very end."—School Library Connection“A highly descriptive story which absorbs the audience into its world, readers will become invested in reading until the very end."—School Library Connection

Join Quill the hedgehog on a bedtime adventure to rediscover the magic of quiet moments."Long, long ago it was so busy.Nobody had time to stop for a moment.Everything and everyone had to be higher, faster,further, bigger, prettier, more!" Thus begins Grandpa Hedgehog's story of the Rush Era. A time not so different from our own, where everyone was constantly on the move and no one had time to stop for a moment, even to care for the forest. Everyone except for a tiny hero named Quill. Can this gentle soul teach the rushing world to stop and smell the flowers before it's too late? Dive into Quill the Forest Keeper, a captivating bedtime story from Marije Tolman, translated by David Colmer, and rediscover the magic of quiet moments.P R A I S E "[A] great candidate for a gentle read-aloud.” — Kirkus“Striking, gorgeous spreads… fitting for both an Earth Day storytime or a quiet, contemplative solo read.” — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books

Every big sister knows the feeling: little brothers get away with EVERYTHING!Meet Sissy, who's had it up to here with her two-year-old brother Chooch. No matter what chaos he creates in their loving Cherokee family—and trust us, there's a lot—their parents just smile and say he's ""helping."" When Elisi paints a mural? Chooch ""helps."" When Edutsi makes grape dumplings? Chooch ""helps."" When Sissy tries to make her own clay pot? Well, you can guess what happens next.But when Sissy finally loses her cool and yells ""Hesdi!"" (Quit it!), what unfolds is a tender moment that captures the messy, beautiful reality of sibling love. This Caldecott Medal winner perfectly nails that universal big sibling frustration—and the surprising grace that can follow.Winner of the Caldecott Medal • Starred reviews from Kirkus, Publishers Weekly, and Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

From master Hopi woodcarver Mavasta Honyouti, the story of his grandfather’s experience at a residential boarding school and how he returned home to pass their traditions down to future generations.When Mavasta Honyouti was a boy he would go with his grandfather to their cornfield, watching him nurture every plant. During breaks, his grandfather would take out a piece of paako root and use his pocketknife to whittle away. He made beautiful carvings that Mavasta would later learn to do himself. But Mavasta would often wonder: what was his kwa’a like when he was a boy? And one day, he heard the story. Mavasta’s grandfather, like many Native American children across the country in the late 19th and early 20th century, was forced to leave his Hopi reservation as a child and go to a residential boarding school far away. There, the government cut his hair, punished him for speaking his native language, and gave him a new name. But Mavasta's grandfather never forgot who he was – or where he came from – and he tried to escape again and again. Finally, he made it back to their reservation. In later years, Mavasta’s kwa’a chose a simple life, taking great care of his family just like he took great care of his plants. His son and later his grandson became acclaimed Hopi katsina woodcarvers, just like him. Coming Home: A Hopi Resistance Story is a deeply personal book – written in both English and Hopi – that features sixteen stunning original painted wood carvings. It is an unforgettable testament to one man rising above a painful piece of history to keep the light of his family and culture alive. P R A I S E Best of the Year:Politics and Prose * Cooperative Children's Book Center * Center for the Study of Multicultural Children's Literature * American Indians in Children's Literature ★ “Honyouti’s rich wood carvings, painted with acrylics, beautifully illuminate this account of ancestral pride, Indigenous power, and intergenerational memory.. This powerful tale is a much-needed reminder that Indigenous peoples’ stories, despite being threaded with trauma, are marked by defiance and pride. A stirring tribute to Hopi culture, language, and resistance.” — Kirkus (starred)★ “Poignant and heartfelt... Coming Home is an invaluable resource for classrooms, particularly those looking to include stories of resilience and remembrance. It offers young learners an accessible and powerful narrative about the importance of language preservation and the strength of the human spirit. — Booklist (starred)

Winner of the National Book Award for Children's Literature in the Netherlands!A tender, lyrical story of an Afghani girl finding a new home, new friends, and refuge—with the help of a very special bunny.Meet Roya, her three brothers, and their parents. They've just welcomed a new family member: Mishka, a fluffy bunny rabbit! Mishka quickly becomes the beloved heart of their new home in the Netherlands. As Mishka settles in, he (and Roya!) gradually learn the incredible story of their family's journey from Afghanistan, told from the unique perspectives of big Bashir, gentle Hamayun, tough Navid, and sometimes Mom and Dad.Inspired by co-author Anoush Elman's own experiences fleeing Afghanistan as a child, this gorgeous, full-color illustrated chapter book by Anoush Elman and Edward van de Vendel is a story readers and parents will treasure. It's a heartwarming tale of a young girl navigating a new country, a new school, and the joys (and challenges!) of making new friends—and yes, even a bunny escape!P R A I S E★ “Deftly weaving in moments of humor, joy, and sadness, the authors offer a gentle, child's-eye view of the dangers the family faces... Profoundly and charmingly moving.”— Kirkus (starred review)★ "Van de Vendel and Elman's touching narrative... gets to the emotional heart of Roya's circumstances... This is a story with deftly drawn characters and clearly demonstrated familial love. Schaap's full-page color portraits of various characters with Mishka add elegance to this evocative and memorable presentation.”— Booklist (starred review)★ "This tender novel, narrated in a simple, affecting voice by nine-year-old Roya, gently illuminates the disorienting effects of the refugee experience on a child... sensitively written and poignant."— Publishers Weekly (starred review)BEST OF THE YEARPublishers Weekly - NYPL - Booklist

A stunning collection of oral histories from Black elders who grew up in the Jim Crow South The past is not past. We may think something ancient history, or something that doesn’t affect our present day, but we would be wrong.Those Who Saw the Sun is a collection of oral histories told by Black people who grew up in the South during the time of Jim Crow. Jaha Nailah Avery is a lawyer, scholar, and reporter whose family has roots in North Carolina stretching back over 300 years. These interviews have been a personal passion project for years as she’s traveled across the South meeting with elders and hearing their stories.One of the most important things a culture can do is preserve history, truthfully. In Those Who Saw the Sun we have the special experience of hearing this history as it was experienced by those who were really there. The opportunity to read their stories, their similarities and differences, where they agree and disagree, and where they overcame obstacles and found joy – feels truly like a gift.P R A I S E ★ “Profound… Avery’s thoughtful questions and the answers they elicit engage well with the impressive minds, often put-upon bodies, and persisting souls of subjects and readers alike.”—BCCB (starred) ★ “Powerful… Avery highlights essential perspectives on significant cultural moments and movements by centering the voices of those who lived them. With the intention of preserving varied Black experiences and the wisdom and knowledge they offer, the creator crafts a vital, nuanced depiction of a fraught period in American history via myriad perspectives.”—Publishers Weekly (starred) ★ “These elders’ voices are a collective treasure.”—Kirkus (starred) “Compelling.”—School Library Connection “Chilling… bring[s] alive the realities of life under Jim Crow.”—Booklist★ “These elders’ voices are a collective treasure.” —Kirkus (starred)“Compelling.” —School Library Connection“Chilling… bring[s] alive the realities of life under Jim Crow.” —Booklist

Talking space dogs + courageous girl astronaut + giant hungry catfish = one fun picture book Aiko is a courageous astronaut, specially trained to brave the extremes of space. The whole of humanity is counting on her success. But on a planet that shows signs of life, something goes awry, and when she wakes up, she finds . . . a pack of dogs? And . . . they can talk?Descended from the valiant astro-dogs who first traveled in space, these canines have cut off all contact with Earth. They’ve found a new planet where they can live, far from humanity and their former masters. (Yes, that doesn’t explain how they can talk, but that’s a little complicated, so let’s move on.)Aiko is delighted. This discovery will make her the most famous astronaut on Earth! The dogs are . . . less delighted. “Finish your lunch,” they say. “We need to walk you before your bedtime.” They're going to keep her prisoner on their planet rather than let humanity find them again.Can Aiko find her way home? Can the dogs protect THEIR home? Dear reader, we think you’ll enjoy finding out!

USA TODAY BESTSELLER — NOW IN PAPERBACK!From environmental journalist and founder of the #TransRightsReadathon Sim Kern, comes the eat-the-rich climate fiction you won't want to put down: In an alternate 2020 timeline, Al Gore won the 2000 election and declared a War on Climate Change rather than a War on Terror. For twenty years, Democrats have controlled all three branches of government, enacting carbon-cutting schemes that never made it to a vote in our world. Green infrastructure projects have transformed U.S. cities into lush paradises (for the wealthy, white neighborhoods, at least), and the Bureau of Carbon Regulation levies carbon taxes on every financial transaction.English teacher by day, Maddie Ryan spends her nights and weekends as the rhythm guitarist of Bunny Bloodlust, a queer punk band living in a warehouse-turned-venue called “The Lab” in Houston’s Eighth Ward. When Maddie learns that the Eighth Ward is to be sacrificed for a new electromagnetic hyperway out to the wealthy, white suburbs, she joins “Save the Eighth,” a Black-led organizing movement fighting for the neighborhood. At first, she’s only focused on keeping her band together and getting closer to Red, their reckless and enigmatic lead guitarist. But working with Save the Eighth forces Maddie to reckon with the harm she has already done to the neighborhood—both as a resident of the gentrifying Lab and as a white teacher in a predominantly Black school.When police respond to Save the Eighth protests with violence, the Lab becomes the epicenter of “The Free People’s Village”—an occupation that promises to be the birthplace of an anti-capitalist revolution. As the movement spreads across the U.S., Maddie dreams of a queer, liberated future with Red. But the Village is beset on all sides—by infighting, police brutality, corporate-owned media, and rising ecofascism. Maddie’s found family is increasingly at risk from state violence, and she must decide if she’s willing to sacrifice everything in pursuit of justice. P R A I S E "Incisive and insightful." —Texas Monthly“Sim Kern’s masterpiece burns with righteous fury. This book doesn’t pull punches — instead of hopelessness, it sliced straight through frustration, fatalism, and ennui and made me want to fight back.”—Shana Hausman, All She Wrote Books“Achingly real, bitterly funny, and deeply moving, The Free People’s Village is a commentary, both compassionate and cutting, on the woke white activist’s journey and, above all, a full-throated ode to resistance and the found family that fuels it.” —Megan Bell, Southern Bookseller Review“The Free People’s Village tackles many social and environmental issues at once without feeling heavy or prescriptive, focusing on personal stories amid the larger ones it tells about capitalism, climate, and activism. Its commentary never comes off as rote or tedious, bolstered by humor and humanity.”— Kayla Kumari Upadhyaya for Autostraddle"Full of furious kindness, radical community, passionate politics, and authentic friendships, The Free People's Village is a sharply-written paean to hope, set in a vivid, brilliantly imagined future that alternately filled me with loathing and yearning. From the carefully crafted timelines to the intensely real characters, this was a story that yanked me into its world and didn't let me surface for hours. You live because you still can, and you organize because you still can, and you fight because you still can."—Premee Mohamed, Nebula Award-winning author of And What Can We Offer You Tonight“A thought-provoking, exciting ride. The Free People's Village is a mesmerizing portrait of revolutions — the internal ones that call us to find and fight for the best versions of ourselves; the external that consume, invigorate, and demand as they explore paths to justice. Grounded in an imaginative landscape and rounded out by an inclusive, complex cast, this novel masterfully explores identity, morality, and the choices we make as vehicles that hold radical power in the quest for liberation. More than a love letter to Houston, its bayous, and people forgotten and remembered, Sim Kern's world sings with possibility, hope, and joy that will leave you laughing--and crying — long after the last bomb has dropped." —Ehigbor Okosun, author of Forged by Blood "Beautiful, brilliant, and unflinching, The Free People's Village will both inspire you and devour you...in the best possible way." —Nicky Drayden, author of Escaping Exodus and The Prey of Gods

A Hilarious Tale of Friendship and Mischief: In the third installment of the Frank and the Puppy series, Frank and Sunny face their greatest challenge yet: setting boundaries. Join Frank the tuxedo cat and Sunny the corgi pup as they face their biggest challenge yet: a hyperactive little "nibling" named Nellie! When Nellie comes to visit, she turns their peaceful home into a chaotic playground. From forced playdates to unwanted fashion shows, Frank and Sunny must navigate the mayhem and find a way to survive this mischievous guest.This heartwarming and humorous chapter book explores themes of friendship, respect, and understanding. With its charming watercolor illustrations and relatable characters, Frank and the Big Mistake is sure to delight young readers and spark important conversations. Dive into a world of laughter and friendship with Frank the tuxedo cat and Sunny the corgi pup. This delightful series is perfect for young readers who love charming animal tales and heartwarming stories. Why Kids Love the Frank and the Puppy series: — Unforgettable Characters: Frank and Sunny's unique personalities and heartwarming bond will captivate young readers. — Engaging Stories: Short, easy-to-follow chapters make reading fun and accessible for early readers. — Whimsical Illustrations: Jon Lau's colorful and expressive illustrations bring the story to life. — Diverse Representation: The series features a loving, multiracial, queer family, promoting inclusivity and understanding. — Humorous and Relatable: The silly antics and everyday situations will resonate with young readers. Also...Did we mention a celebrity endorsement? The Frank the Puppy series was featured on Bedtime Stories with Ryan, Ryan Reynolds’s TV show on Maximum Effort Channel.

Grace Woodhouse has left a lot behind. She used to have a great friend group, an amazing girlfriend, and a right foot set to earn her a Division I football scholarship—before she came out as trans. As senior year begins, Grace is struggling to find her place in early transition, new social circles, and a life without football. But when her skills as the best kicker in the state prove to be vital, her old teammates beg her to come out of retirement, dragging her back into a sport—into a way of life—she thought had turned its back on her forever. When a chance meeting cracks the door to college football back open, she has to decide how much of herself she's willing to give up for the game she loves.

Printz Medalist and Newbery Honor winner Daniel Nayeri crafts this beautiful paean to storytelling and the bonds of family. Based on powerful memories of Nayeri visiting his grandfather, this story-within-a-story brings a young boy in a hot car ride across the desert. The destination is an oasis, where gardens perfume the air, and tales are lovingly told. Here is the gate to a magical world full of princesses, valiant brothers, dangerous giants, and one perfect, enchanted lemon. Will any of the brothers be able to foil the giant, retrieve the lemon, and free the princess? In the warm embrace of Nayeri’s storytelling, readers will lean into the enchantment until the story’s end. Rahele Jhompeur Bell creates the two gorgeous visual strands of the tale–one inspired by the frames and jewel-like colors of Persian miniatures, the other a tender, richly textured rendering of a contemporary family. Together, the author and artist cast a delicious spell that, like the singular lemon at the heart of the story, is so sweet it can cure sadness itself.

The Wild Robot meets Restart when Colorado's unluckiest foster kid battles a rogue AI robot at school.Malcolm Montgomery is the new kid at Shirley Chisholm Charter Middle School. In no time at all, he’s been slapped with the weird kid label. Is it because he's a foster kid who's been in nine homes? Or maybe because he burps when he gets nervous…which is often? Malcolm has a plan to finally get adopted by a forever family before it's too late. But then on Visiting Professionals' Day, his school invites Dr. Alphonse Hatch, president of Hatch-ED—one of the fastest-growing artificial intelligence companies in the state—to give a presentation. Dr. Hatch brings his AI-powered robot, and events get set in motion that create...THE INCIDENT.An irresistible MG novel about the role of AI in schools and in our lives…and what it means to be human.

A classmates-to-friends-to-lovers romance that's equal parts raunchy, heartfelt, queer, and Mexican-American, centered on college football (the REAL football)!Gabriel Piña knows who he is: a college goalkeeper, a future Liga MX or MLS star, and definitely straight. He’s starting his freshman year with a lot of eyes on him and even more potential, but he’s got this. Nothing will have him straying off the path to greatness.That is, until his philosophy classmate Vale volunteers to tutor him. Vale, the same guy who Gabi, in a moment of history repeating itself, might’ve kissed very briefly—and only once—just to help him out at a party. Vale, the smart, supportive, compassionate new friend with beautiful brown eyes and a smile that keeps Gabi, for completely inexplicable reasons, constantly in a daydream.As a friendship blooms and the two spend more and more time together, Gabi finally begins to recognize something about himself: maybe he’s not as straight as he thought he was. But a larger and darker realization lingers. Someone like Gabi—a brown, Mexican futbolista with dreams of playing for El Tri—can’t also be bisexual. He’s seen the way his teammates and community react to queerness in their sport. It would be the exact type of straying off path that destroys his future.Or, maybe Gabi could be brave enough to embrace all those parts of himself and forge his own path, one that includes a boyfriend and the beautiful game.A sports romance for those who keep rewatching Bend It Like Beckham and rereading Red, White & Royal Blue and the incredible collection of queer soc—football romances out there, Futbolista follows the first semester of one guy's freshman year of college, navigating who he is, who he’s allowed to be, and who he wants to be.

From Norway comes an international horror hit that is shudderingly terrifying and deliciously original.The world has been overrun by hitherto unknown beasts. Society has collapsed: the power is gone, cars are abandoned across the highways, and anyone left is hiding from the terrifying creatures—and one another. Thirteen-year-old Abdi and his sister are on the run, their last hope to escape through the forest and to the sea. As they recall the strange events that led to the beasts' arrival, and how the two of them got to where they were, they must ask themselves who they can trust—and what they will do to survive.Set in a postapocalyptic world, Ingvild Bjerkeland’s chilling novel Beasts is about children who hope to reunite with their father. After a beast killed their mother, Abdi becomes the guardian of his five-year-old sister, Alva. With Alva feverish, Abdi is anxious to find supplies and travel to the remote island where their ornithologist father is stationed. The creatures the siblings encounter are six feet tall, covered in black fur, with hoofs and curling claws that unfurl for attacks. The narrative maintains an engaging and brutal pace as Abdi struggles to keep his sister and himself alive.This gripping YA novel explores deeper themes, such as the line that separates not only child from adult but man from beast. The siblings anchor the book, and their emotional journey is as riveting as the physical one. Through his responsibility for Alva, Abdi overcomes his fears and finds strength within himself. Bjerkeland walks a careful line between being mindful of her audience’s age while refusing to shrink from the truth.Beasts will appeal to readers of survival classics such as Hatchet and Julie of the Wolves with its realistic illustrations of Abdi’s dogged problem-solving. It will also please those who enjoy stories with supernatural antagonists in pursuit of their prey, like The Walking Dead or The Last of Us. Rippling with constant tension, Beasts is an eerie, quick read for teen readers who can handle a bit of horror and unease.P R A I S E“Bjerkeland’s writing is beautiful. A quick, enjoyable read.” —The New York Times★ “Chilling… short chapters and taut prose set a frantic pace. Beasts combines the timelessness of a fairy tale with the stark immediacy of contemporary dystopian fiction.” —Foreword (starred)★ “Bjerkeland’s propulsive tale is sleek and elegant, a subtle blend of fable and realism that increasingly reflects many of today’s desperate refugees’ experiences. Every sentence is direct and brief, vivid with eventfulness, uncertainty, and Abdi’s deep sense of responsibility for his sister … The story’s brevity and abrupt forcefulness, and the characters’ stalwart courage and love, make this tale unusually compelling.” —The Horn Book (starred)“Crisp and spare, the lines lean as picked-clean bones … The siblings anchor the book, and their emotional journey is as riveting as the physical one … Bjerkeland walks a careful line between being mindful of her audience’s age while refusing to shrink from the truth. Filled with tension and a few heart-pounding moments, Beasts never fully strays into the darker recesses like its postapocalyptic adult cousins The Road or I Who Have Never Known Men, yet it also resists easy answers or a storybook ending. It’s a balance that clearly works ... Beasts is likely to garner praise from far more readers than that in the United States and beyond.” —Washington Independent Book Review“Harrowing … Abdi’s perspective is gripping, and the vagueness of detail and backstory adds to the suspense … Highly appealing for a great many horror readers, new and old.” —Kirkus Reviews“Drips with eerie atmosphere and moves at a taut pace. Abdi’s first-person narrative balances the unsettling events with his poignant thoughts and feelings about caring for his younger sister, whose irrepressible attitude is a welcome lightness in this disquieting tale. Middle-grade readers looking for something scary but not too gory will appreciate the mood cultivated here.” —Booklist“For those just beginning to learn the [horror] genre, this is a magnificent introduction—spare, tense, gory just at the edges, and tightly focused on the siblings, creating a heightened sense of connection and investment in their survival. The beasts themselves, cunning and malicious, are well-described, and moments when Abdi and Alva encounter them are chilling. Readers will likely be left questioning whether they would have had the fortitude to survive, let alone keep a much younger sibling alive as well.” —Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books“A sense of urgency simmers beneath every line of prose, relentlessly driving the characters—and the reader—forward … Rippling with constant tension, Beasts is an eerie, quick read for readers who can handle a bit of horror and unease.” —BookPage“Bjerkeland paints a bleak picture of postapocalyptic monster survival reminiscent of media like 28 Days Later and The Last of Us ... A simple yet effective monster story that will appeal to fans of postapocalyptic fiction.” —School Library Journal

Charting one boy’s search for companionship amidst violence and isolation in the mid-century rural South, with a new foreword from National Book Award-winner Justin Torres. Nathan’s used to being alone. Drifting from town to town following his salesman father, he seeks solace in his studies when he can’t find understanding in his own home; his father is abusive and an alcoholic and his mother would rather disappear into the background than protect him.Enter Roy. The older boy next door might have a girlfriend at school and at church, but there’s no question that they’re drawn to one another, and the two quickly become entangled in a covert relationship. As their relationship intensifies, Roy and Nathan must navigate their fears of being caught and their growing desires for one another. But when Nathan’s dad begins to suspect Nathan and Roy’s relationship is more than just friendship, Nathan’s home ceases to be safe, forcing Nathan to run away and altering his life, relationships, and future.Through lyrical and evocative writing, Grimsley explores violence, tenderness, trauma, religion, and queer love against the backdrop of the 1950s rural South.“Romantic passion, violence and ultimate liberation coalesce in this singular display of literary craftsmanship.” — Publishers Weekly

NEWBERY HONOR AWARD WINNERBEST OF THE YEAR:NPR - Booklist - School Library Journal - Chicago Public Library - Evanston Public Library - Kirkus - Wall Street JournalThe Silk Road comes to life in this picaresque epic adventure with twists and turns and a wonderful surprise ending from Printz Medalist Daniel NayeriThis is the tale of an exciting journey along the Silk Road with a young Monk and his newfound guardian, Samir, a larger than life character and the so-called Seller of Dreams. The man is a scammer, his biggest skill being the ability to talk his way into getting what he wants. While that talking did save Monkey’s life, it has left a lot of people furious with Samir— furious enough to hire assassins. Monkey decides to try and save Samir from the attempts on his life—as a way to pay off his debt! If he can save Samir six times, he’ll be a free man ... but will they all survive that long?Fans of Salman Rushdie's Haroun and the Sea of Stories and The Little Prince will fall in love with the bond between Monkey and Samir—in this swashbuckling all-ages page-turner from national best seller Daniel Nayeri.P R A I S E“Adventurous, funny and nimble. Daniel Nayeri understands this relationship between storytelling and magic, and finds every opportunity to celebrate it. ”  —The New York Times“Daniel Nayeri conjures a richly colored 11th-century realm of merchants and swindlers, camels and donkeys, caravanserai and spice bazaars, and the gaudiest array of mercenaries ever assembled in a book for young readers.”  —The Wall Street Journal4 STARRED REVIEWS ★ “An epic ­adventure with an enduring message about love and family.”  —School Library Journal (starred)★ “Filled with the multicultural hustle and bustle of the Silk Road, enlivened by the unpredictable nature of unreliable storytellers, this is a strange, wondrous, and creative tale. Can family be found along the Silk Road, or will everyone ultimately betray you? An enticing taste of a rich historical world."   —Kirkus (starred)★ “Readers will find more than expected, including tender philosophies, complex characterizations, heaps of humor, a masterful twist, and most importantly, just a great story, beautifully told.”  —Booklist (starred)★ “Blends playful humor, solid pacing, and fully realized characters into a witty, assassin-studded traveler’s yarn that also serves as a memorable, lively portrait of the 11th-century Silk Road.”   —Publishers Weekly (starred)“Nayeri’s immersive writing style brings a you-are-there energy to the depiction of the harsh but gorgeous environment of the Silk Road, and an informative author’s note further details the geography of the trail, its economic and social value, and the many people who traversed it. The book ends with a simple but profound reminder that love comes in many forms, it is almost always messy and unpredictable, and it is almost always worth every effort toward it.”  —Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books “Daniel Nayeri has a gift. The child that reads this will not forget it, and how many books that come out for this age range can say the same? Is there anything else out there like it? I will simply say this: If you hand this book to someone, they will definitely have an opinion of it. You may, in fact, end up loving it in the end, or cursing it to the heavens. A tome with a soul tied inextricably to that of its titular character. Better read it.”  —Betsy Bird, SLJ's Fuse 8 Blog

Winner of the National Book Award • Named Amazon's #1 Children's Book of 2025  In the shadow of World War II, two orphaned siblings embark on a perilous journey across the mountains of Iran—where survival depends on finding a common language in a world torn apart.  1941. The German armies are storming across Europe. Iran is a neutral country occupied by British forces on one side, Soviet forces on another. Soldiers fill the teahouses of Isfahan. Nazi spies roam the alleyways.  Babak and his little sister have just lost their father. Now orphans, fearing they will be separated, the two devise a plan. Babak will take up his father's old job as a teacher to the nomads. With a chalkboard strapped to Babak's back, and a satchel full of textbooks, the siblings set off to find the nomad tribes as they make their yearly trek across the mountains.  On the treacherous journey they meet a Jewish boy, hiding from a Nazi spy. And suddenly, they are all in a race for survival.  Against the backdrop of World War II comes an epic adventure in the faraway places. Through the cacophony of soldiers, tanks, and planes, can young hearts of different creeds and nations learn to find a common language?  Master storyteller Daniel Nayeri delivers an unforgettable tale of courage, hope, and the transformative power of education. Meticulously researched and breathtakingly told, The Teacher of Nomad Land illuminates a hidden corner of WWII history.  Perfect for readers who loved The Book Thief, Refugee, and Inside Out and Back Again, this is a story that will keep you riveted until the final, tear-filled page.  "No one captures the flavor and spirit of traditional storytelling more than Daniel Nayeri." —Chris Abouzeid, Belmont Books.

A window into a world most people see depicted only in seconds-long news reports, one that we all should look through in order to recognize the genuine humanity within.Asad lives in Gaza, in a tiny house, on a narrow street pocked by half-destroyed buildings, in a camp that looks shabby to him and feels claustrophobic. He walks virtually the same route every day to his summer job at a printing press, passing the prison that holds his father, for reasons that have not been fully explained to him. As the oldest son, he feels the weight of responsibility for his seven brothers, his sisters, and his Ummi, who wants him to study hard and excel in school, as all mothers do. Moody and reserved Asad has few friends, and fewer distractions. Thank goodness for Um Fawzi, a feisty, cigarette-smoking old woman, who’s the only one who seems willing to tell it like it is, sharply enough, and with a biting sense of humor that snaps him out of his fog sometimes. There’s also Houriya, a lovely and smart girl, who brings him books to read and sometimes prompts him to think about a future that he can’t truly imagine. There seems to be no escaping. But Asad has a secret, too, a mysterious black bag that holds something important that he keeps hidden from everyone.This rare novel by and about Palestinians showcases this boy whose life is never easy, even as it’s filled with the longing, the bruised hopes, and the frustrations of any seventeen-year-old. Translated by Sawad Hussain, who was a Princeton translator in residence and has won numerous awards for her work.

A powerful and sensitive story about body safety and consent that every family needs.Shreya loves to paint. Her world is filled with bright, bold colors as lively as she is. Even her art teacher, Mr. Rao, thinks her work is ""marvelous."" But when he asks to paint her during recess when the other kids are outside, Shreya's excitement turns to fear. The moment she arrives, she knows something is wrong, and in that moment, she freezes.The experience shatters her love of painting, leaving her feeling awful and unable to find the words to tell her mother why.Her former rival, Meera, has also become Mr. Rao's new subject. But unlike Shreya, Meera yells ""No!"" and runs for help. Meera’s example gives Shreya the courage she needs to reclaim her voice and her love of art.This crucial resource for families and book collections everywhere includes guidance and resources to help parents and children navigate this important topic.

Spend your summer on Soggy Stump! This cozy, colorful, and amphibious graphic novel adventure draws inspiration from the author's background as a Diné librarian.Anura is a young frog spending the summer back home with their grandmother. With some...er...gentle prodding from Grandma, they get a job working at the local library. It's about 11 minutes in when they're tasked with a big project: create an archive that captures what makes Soggy Stump so special.What the heck is even an archive?! And so begins a summer full of fry bread, weaving, zines, community gardens, manga, and (maybe) an answer to the question of: how do we preserve the knowledge, wisdom, and memories of the ones we love? Inspired by Julie Fiveash's Diné background and career as a librarian, and infused throughout with the colors of the Southwest, The Froggy Library is a love letter to Native communities, summers with friends and family, and libraries everywhere.

A bold, autobiographical graphic novel chronicling one girl’s quest to uncover her family’s history during the Armenian genocide.Nadine loves stories and her mother loves to tell them—all but one. Nadine would give anything to learn about her family's history in Armenia and Turkey—where they came from and how they came to America—but it is just too painful for her parents. All Nadine knows is that they were caught up in the Armenian genocide.Until one day the dam bursts. And through that flood of stories and memories, and a trip back to their people's homelands, Nadine discovers a key to unlocking her own heritage and the courage to speak up when injustice rears its head again. Told in interwoven historical, contemporary, and fantastical sequences, Armaveni is a gripping graphic novel debut and a much-needed historical document.

NOW IN PAPERBACK! Instant New York Times Bestseller! Stonewall Book Award Winner Best of the Year: Chicago Public Library * New York Public Library * Booklist * Publishers Weekly * BookPageFrom exciting debut talent Victoria Zeller comes One of the Boys, a coming-of-age story with an unforgettable voice for the queer jocks, the straight theater kids, and everyone in between.Grace Woodhouse was a star kicker with a D1 future, but that was before she came out as transgender and quit football. Now, as senior year begins, Grace is navigating a new life with queer friends and a fresh perspective.But when her old teammates beg her to rejoin the Pageland High football team, Grace can’t resist the call of the game. Can she be both a star football player and a trans girl? As Grace steps back onto the field, she’ll face transphobia, navigate complicated feelings for her ex-girlfriend, and learn to unite her past and present. One of the Boys is a heartfelt, funny, and inspiring story about self-discovery, breaking stereotypes, and the power of solidarity, all wrapped up in an unforgettable season of high school football. Perfect for fans of sports stories and authentic queer narratives, this book is a winning game of “feelingsball” you won't want to miss!”P R A I S E“Heartfelt, hilarious, and blisteringly honest. One of the Boys is genuinely one of the best contemporary YAs I’ve ever had the pleasure of reading.” —Andrew Joseph White, New York Times bestselling author of Compound Fracture  “Completely and beautifully immersed in the world of its sport, One of the Boys is as funny as it is emotional, as honest as it is hopeful, and as exciting as it is comforting. This is exactly the book I wanted to read, and Grace is exactly the protagonist I wanted to follow. Her voice, much like Victoria Zeller’s prose, is a joy. I absolutely loved it.” —KT Hoffman, author of The Prospects★ “A standout first work, setting a high bar for the blooming subgenre of queer sports fiction.” —Booklist (starred)★ “One of the Boys is an amazing feel-good read for any teen (or adult!) who loves football—but for those who know nothing about the sport, Zeller does a great job making it accessible. Alongside great sports plays and banter, Zeller also prioritizes “feelingsball,” or mapping Grace’s mental and emotional journey as she works to unite the football world and the LGBTQ+ world, two spaces with long-held stereotypes and prejudices against each other. One of the Boys is a standout work of YA fiction, as inspiring and illuminating as it is funny and relatable.” —BookPage (starred)★ “Zeller artfully exposes the tender underbelly of locker room posturing, presenting a subversive, experience-informed interpretation of toxic masculinity ... An intersectionally diverse cast—which includes Grace’s taciturn yet supportive single father—helps the protagonist forge her own path and blaze a trail for others in this necessary debut.” —Publishers Weekly (starred)

Page-turning World War 2 hidden history masterfully told by award winner Daniel Nayeri—NOW IN PAPERBACK!National Book Award · Newbery Honor · Named Amazon's #1 Children's Book of 20251941. The German armies are storming across Europe. Iran is a neutral country occupied by British forces on one side, Soviet forces on another. Soldiers fill the teahouses of Isfahan. Nazi spies roam the alleyways.Babak and his little sister have just lost their father. Now orphans, fearing they will be separated, the two devise a plan. Babak will take up his father's old job as a teacher to the nomads. With a chalkboard strapped to Babak's back, and a satchel full of textbooks, the siblings set off to find the nomad tribes as they make their yearly trek across the mountains.On the treacherous journey they meet a Jewish boy, hiding from a Nazi spy. And suddenly, they are all in a race for survival.Against the backdrop of World War II comes an epic adventure in the faraway places. Through the cacophony of soldiers, tanks, and planes, can young hearts of different creeds and nations learn to find a common language?Master storyteller Daniel Nayeri keeps you on the edge of your seat, uncertain to the very end.W I N N E RNational Book AwardNewbery HonorMalka Penn Award for Human Rights in Children's LiteratureCommon Sense Media SelectionJLG Gold StandardP R A I S E* "Heart-piercing… Lush details and taut plotting distinguish this immersive, profound offering." –Publishers Weekly (starred)* "Gripping… Nayeri tells a remarkably intimate story… The novel’s richly drawn characters and evocative setting provide enough context about World War II and Iranian history without overwhelming young readers… A compelling testament to the power of education and empathy to light the way in even the most perilous circumstances." –Kirkus (starred)* "The artfully detailed setting and strong values depicted through Babak’s endeavor to teach others will leave readers inspired. A powerful novel about an often-forgotten region and era that highlights the power of education through shared communication to create bonds." –School Library Journal (starred)* "A tightly crafted odyssey about two siblings in World War II Iran, seems unlikely to break Nayeri's award-winning streak. Discover: Daniel Nayeri's tightly crafted odyssey about two siblings in World War II Iran showcases his gifts for understatement, restraint, and split-second swings between humor and emotional devastation." –Shelf-Awareness (starred)* "Cinematic…Nayeri rolls out a tale in which severe hardship and the ever-present potential for violence are counterbalanced by lighter moments." –Booklist (starred)* "Emotionally rich, suspenseful, and profound… Nayeri’s prose is lush and evocative… Along with vivid characterization, the novel balances action and introspection, weaving in issues of faith, identity, and empathy without slowing momentum... Timely and unforgettable." –TheHorn Book (starred)"A fictional story so utterly real the reader feels it must be true… The setting here — mountains, brush and beleaguered cities — is vivid and gritty. The characters, especially Sana and Ben, are so authentic you can hear their breath when they speak. The plot is as tight as an ocean-bound ship. But the glory of this book is the way it reaches across cultures and time to find an essential truth: 'What we want others to know, we must teach them.' Superb." –Kimberly Brubaker Bradley, The New York Times"World War II stories are perennially popular, but Newbery honoree Nayeri brings a fresh lens… The journey’s mishaps and crises, including an unforgettable game of telephone, remind readers of the ripple effects of war, while Nayeri’s immaculately crafted turns of phrase pierce the heart with precision." –The Washington Post"Astonishing. This isn’t just a book – it’s a prayer, a lament, a master class in storytelling." –NPR"The Teacher of Nomad Land is an extraordinary novel that made me want to dig deeper into the true stories that inspired it, and I hope to see this book showered with awards in the months to come."  –Seira Wilson, Amazon Editor"I’ve noticed something about Daniel Nayeri. With every middle grade novel for kids that he writes he gets a little bit sharper. A little bit sleeker. A little bit funnier. A little bit faster. And this latest title? It’s a little bit one of the best books of the year and then some. It’s a little bit legendary." –Betsy Bird, Fuse8"Rich in symbolism and simply told, I’d add this historical fiction to any public, middle grade, or high school library collection."  –Edith Campbell, SLJ Pearl’s & Ruby’s BlogBEST OF THE YEARAmazon · NPR · New York Times · Kirkus · Shelf-Awareness · Booklist · Evanston Public Library

A polyphonous graphic novel memoir from father and daughter about a boy’s flight and return to war-torn Afghanistan—as well as a fresh retelling of the epic Persian poem The Conference of the Birds.Ahmadjan dreams of becoming an artist, but finds few opportunities in tumultuous Afghanistan. So he leaves ... and thus begins a colorful, zigzagging path that is not just a powerful meditation on art, war, and the meaning of life—as well as a stunning collection of a myriad of different illustration forms—but a singular retelling of the legendary Persian epic The Conference of the Birds. By the end of Papa Drew a Thousand Birds, you realize Ahmadjan and his daughter Maren are telling this story together, and their birds have flown their way into your heart.