List

Category
Audience
Tags

Gut Reaction

Kirby Larson

Critically acclaimed, bestselling author and Newbery Honor-winner, Kirby Larson, and her daughter, debut author, Quinn Wyatt, pen this gorgeously moving and often funny story that explores what living with a chronic illness is like. Inspired by Quinn''s own personal journey, Gut Reaction is full of heart and humor and highlights the importance of asking for help when it comes to mental and physical health alike.

Tess Medina is still dealing with the loss of her father when she starts at a new school. One way she is still able to feel close to him is by doing what she does best: baking. He taught her everything she knows. But when tasting her creations causes a deep stabbing pain in her abdomen, she tries to power through and be strong in the same way she powers through her emotional pain. She doesn''t mind too much--she''s okay with sharing her baked goods at school in the hopes of making new friends.

Lucky for Tess, her baking skills attract the right kind of attention, and she assembles a ragtag team to help her taste her new and classic creations in preparation for the Jubilee Flour Junior Baker West Coast competition. This is a chance to redeem herself and prove that she''s a star baker. Above all, Tess is desperate to win first place and make her dad proud.

But leading up to the competition, Tess''s pain gets worse and worse, and, soon, she finds that she''s avoiding so many foods that she''s barely eating. When the physical pain becomes too great, Tess will be forced to confront everything she has been trying so desperately to hide.

From Newbery Honor author Kirby Larson and her daughter, debut author Quinn Wyatt, comes a poignant, sometimes silly, and always moving story of coming to grips with grief and finding the sweet filling inside every treat.

Praise for Gut Reaction by Kirby Larson and Quinn Wyatt:

"Gut Reaction is a poignant, triumphant tale about living with chronic illness, overcoming loss, and reaffirming joy and self-love. Tess is funny, relatable, brave, and an awesome baker!" --Jewell Parker Rhodes, New York Times bestselling author of Ghost Boys.

"A powerful story about living with a disease and not letting it define who you are."--Alan Gratz, New York Times bestselling author of Refugee and Two Degrees.

"Kirby Larson and Quinn Wyatt have cooked up a rich, warm story about Crohn''s Disease, courage, and cookies. The voice is heartfelt and authentic, leavened with humor and, oh my frog, delicious desserts. Gut Reaction is a wonderful book about important things, and I recommend it highly."--Karen Cushman, author of the Newbery Award-winning The Midwife''s Apprentice.

"A multi-layered, straight-from-the-heart story written with a light, deft touch,Gut Reaction will inspire readers to pursue their creative passions. I loved this touching, sweet, and engaging book!"--Barbara Dee, award-winning author of Unstuck.

"Sweet and delicious! You will gobble up this book in one bite!"--Jennifer L. Holm, New York Times bestselling author of The Fourteenth Goldfish.

"Gut Reaction is a much-needed and important book for everyone: those suffering with Crohn''s disease, their family and friends who want to help them, and for all the rest who need to understand. Written with the voice of authenticity by a mother/daughter team who know firsthand the effects of this painful and often embarrassing disease. Toss in a handful of lovable and diverse characters and an edge-of-your-seat cooking competition and Gut Reaction is a recipe for success."--Barbara O''Connor, author of How To Steal A Dog and WISH.

"I would have finished Gut Reaction in one swoop--but I didn''t want it to end. I especially loved the baking connection, but the story''s honesty, the humor and the friendships added so many layers. If the topic seems serious--and it is, the way Tess struggles to accept her illness will resonate with readers. Tess Medina is an inspiration. Her story will be one you''ll remember long after that last page is turned."--Augusta Scattergood, author of Glory Be and The Way To Stay In Destiny.

"Great British Baking Show meets Guts by Raina Telgemeier. Entertaining and informative. Really put me inside the mind of a level-headed fourteen-year-old forced to deal with one awkward and humiliating situation after another."--Gennifer Choldenko, Newbery Honor author of Al Capone Does My Shirts, and coauthor of Dogtown with Katherine Applegate.

View Details >>

Stand Up, Yumi Chung!

Jessica Kim

One lie snowballs into a full-blown double life in this irresistible story about an aspiring stand-up comedian.

On the outside, Yumi Chung suffers from #shygirlproblems, a perm-gone-wrong, and kids calling her "Yu-MEAT" because she smells like her family's Korean barbecue restaurant. On the inside, Yumi is ready for her Netflix stand-up special. Her notebook is filled with mortifying memories that she's reworked into comedy gold. All she needs is a stage and courage.

Instead of spending the summer studying her favorite YouTube comedians, Yumi is enrolled in test-prep tutoring to qualify for a private school scholarship, which will help in a time of hardship at the restaurant. One day after class, Yumi stumbles on an opportunity that will change her life: a comedy camp for kids taught by one of her favorite YouTube stars. The only problem is that the instructor and all the students think she's a girl named Kay Nakamura--and Yumi doesn't correct them. 

As this case of mistaken identity unravels, Yumi must decide to stand up and reveal the truth or risk losing her dreams and disappointing everyone she cares about.

View Details >>

Get a Grip, Vivy Cohen!

Sarah Kapit

In this perfectly pitched novel-in-letters, autistic eleven-year-old Vivy Cohen won't let anything stop her from playing baseball--not when she has a major-league star as her pen pal.

Vivy Cohen is determined. She's had enough of playing catch in the park. She's ready to pitch for a real baseball team.

But Vivy's mom is worried about Vivy being the only girl on the team, and the only autistic kid. She wants Vivy to forget about pitching, but Vivy won't give up. When her social skills teacher makes her write a letter to someone, Vivy knows exactly who to choose: her hero, Major League pitcher VJ Capello. Then two amazing things happen: A coach sees Vivy's amazing knuckleball and invites her to join his team. And VJ starts writing back! 

Now Vivy is a full-fledged pitcher, with a catcher as a new best friend and a steady stream of advice from VJ. But when a big accident puts her back on the bench, Vivy has to fight to stay on the team.

View Details >>

Ellie Engle Saves Herself

Leah Johnson

From award-winning author Leah Johnson comes a laugh-until-you-cry, cry-until-you-laugh story about friendship, change, and the power we have to love ourselves.

Ellie Engle doesn’t stand out. Not at home, where she's alone with her pet fish since her dad moved away and her mom has to work around the clock . Not at the bakery, where she helps out old Mr. Walker on the weekends. And definitely not at school, where her best friend Abby—the coolest, boldest, most talented girl in the world—drags Ellie along on her never-ending quest to “make her mark.” To someone else, a life in the shadows might seem boring, or lonely. But not to Ellie. As long as she has Abby by her side and a comic book in her hand, she’s quite content.

Too bad life didn’t bother checking in with Ellie. Because when a freak earthquake hits her small town, Ellie wakes up with the power to bring anything back to life with just her touch. And when a video of her using her powers suddenly goes viral, Ellie’s life goes somewhere she never imagined—or wanted: straight into the spotlight. 

Surviving middle school is hard enough. Surviving middle school when paparazzi are camped out on your front lawn and an international pop singer wants you to use your powers on live tv and you might be in love with your best friend but she doesn’t know it? Absolutely impossible.

View Details >>

When Stars Are Scattered

Victoria Jamieson

A National Book Award Finalist, this remarkable graphic novel is about growing up in a refugee camp, as told by a former Somali refugee to the Newbery Honor-winning creator of Roller Girl.

Omar and his younger brother, Hassan, have spent most of their lives in Dadaab, a refugee camp in Kenya. Life is hard there: never enough food, achingly dull, and without access to the medical care Omar knows his nonverbal brother needs. So when Omar has the opportunity to go to school, he knows it might be a chance to change their future . . . but it would also mean leaving his brother, the only family member he has left, every day.

Heartbreak, hope, and gentle humor exist together in this graphic novel about a childhood spent waiting, and a young man who is able to create a sense of family and home in the most difficult of settings. It's an intimate, important, unforgettable look at the day-to-day life of a refugee, as told to New York Times Bestselling author/artist Victoria Jamieson by Omar Mohamed, the Somali man who lived the story.

View Details >>

Bunnicula

James Howe

This book is written by Harold. His fulltime occupation is dog. He lives with Mr. and Mrs. Monroe and their sons Toby and Pete. Also sharing the home are a cat named Chester and a rabbit named Bunnicula. It is because of Bunnicula that Harold turned to writing. Someone had to tell the full story of what happened in the Monroe household after the rabbit arrived.

Was Bunnicula really a vampire? Only Bunnicula knows for sure. But the story of Chester's suspicions and their consequences makes uproarious reading.

Since its first appearance in 1979, "Bunnicula" has been a hit with kids and their parents everywhere, selling over 8 million copies and winning numerous awards.

View Details >>

Outside

Jennifer L. Holm

From three-time Newbery Honor winner Jennifer L. Holm, a chilling but heartfelt story of a girl being raised in a compound who doesn't understand how isolated and unusual her life is... until she must encounter the outside world.

 

Whatever you do, don't leave home.

Razzi has always been told: Don't go Outside. It isn't safe. There are people and creatures out there that will harm you. The walls of the Refuge will protect you from them.

Razzi's friend Ollie was curious about Outside... and it led to his death. So Razzi is trying to be on her best behavior. She is the oldest kid left, the one the younger kids look up to. She has to follow the rules.

But Outside has a way of getting in, and Razzi, guided by a dog she has a strangely close connection with, wonders what it's like to run free beyond the walls.

If she steps away from everything she's ever known... what will she find?

View Details >>

The Night Diary

Veera Hiranandani

NEWBERY HONOR BOOK • A poignant, personal, and hopeful tale of India's partition—and of one girl's journey to find a new home in a divided country.

“[The Night Diary is] a sensitive portrayal of the universal search for identity and the need for a place to call home. Beautifully written, it weaves terror, family and faith into a timeless account of courage and strength.”—Laurie Halse Anderson, The New York Times

"A gripping, nuanced story of the human cost of conflict appropriate for both children and adults."—Kirkus Reviews (One of the Best Middle Grade Books of the Century)

It's 1947, and India, newly independent of British rule, has been separated into two countries: Pakistan and India. The divide has created much tension between Hindus and Muslims, and hundreds of thousands are killed crossing borders.

Half-Muslim, half-Hindu twelve-year-old Nisha doesn't know where she belongs, or what her country is anymore. When Papa decides it's too dangerous to stay in what is now Pakistan, Nisha and her family become refugees and embark—first by train, later on foot—to reach her new home. The journey is long, difficult, and dangerous, and after losing her mother as a baby, Nisha can't imagine losing her homeland, too. But even if her country has been ripped apart, Nisha still believes in the possibility of putting herself back together.

Told through Nisha's letters to her mother, The Night Diary is a heartfelt story of one girl's search for home, for her own identity...and for a hopeful future.
 

View Details >>

Scary Stories for Young Foxes

Christian McKay Heidicker

Christian McKay Heidicker draws inspiration from Bram Stoker, H. P. Lovecraft and Edgar Allan Poe in this spine-tingling, unforgettable tale of friendship and survival, stunningly illustrated by Junyi Wu. 

The haunted season has arrived in the Antler Wood. No fox kit is safe.

When Mia and Uly are separated from their litters, they discover a dangerous world full of monsters. In order to find a den to call home, they must venture through field and forest, facing unspeakable things that dwell in the darkness: a zombie who hungers for their flesh, a witch who tries to steal their skins, a ghost who hunts them through the snow . . . and other things too scary to mention. 

Featuring eight interconnected stories and sixteen hauntingly beautiful illustrations, Scary Stories for Young Foxes contains the kinds of adventures and thrills you love to listen to beside a campfire in the dark of night. Fans of Neil Gaiman, Jonathan Auxier, and R. L. Stine have found their next favorite book.

A Booklist 2019 Editors' Choice Selection

View Details >>

Popcorn

Rob Harrell

Winner of The Schneider Family Book Award 

The beloved author of Wink is back with a hilarious and moving story about coping with anxiety on a day when everything is going wrong

Andrew’s just trying to make it through Picture Day, which is easier said than done when it seems like the whole world is out to get him—from a bully to a science experiment gone wrong to a someone else’s juice snot (don’t ask).

But as Andrew goes through the school day, and as one thing after another goes wrong, that little kernel of worry in his stomach is getting hotter and hotter, until it threatens to pop and turn into a public panic attack, his worst fear. He tries to keep his anxiety at bay, but the news that his grandmother with Alzheimer’s is missing is too much.

Interspersed with humorous spot art and “anxiety file” panels that depict the real, difficult feelings of anxiety and OCD and real tips for coping, this is a poignant, personal, and laugh-out-loud funny story about letting go of control and accepting help—all while trying to get the perfect school picture.

View Details >>

Charlie Joe Jackson's Guide to Not Reading

Tommy Greenwald

Charlie Joe Jackson may be the most reluctant reader ever born. And so far, he's managed to get through life without ever reading an entire book from cover to cover. But now that he's in middle school, avoiding reading isn't as easy as it used to be. And when his friend Timmy McGibney decides that he's tired of covering for him, Charlie Joe finds himself resorting to desperate measures to keep his perfect record intact. 

Charlie Joe Jackson's Guide to Not Reading by Tommy Greenwald is the hilarious story of an avid non-reader and the extreme lengths to which he'll go to get out of reading a book.

View Details >>

Invisible

Christina Diaz Gonzalez

For fans of New Kid and Allergic, a must-have graphic novel about five very different students who are forced together by their school to complete community service... and may just have more in common than they thought.

Can five overlooked kids make one big difference?

There's George: the brain

Sara: the loner

Dayara: the tough kid

Nico: the rich kid

And Miguel: the athlete

And they're stuck together when they're forced to complete their school's community service hours. Although they're sure they have nothing in common with one another, some people see them as all the same . . . just five Spanish-speaking kids.

Then they meet someone who truly needs their help, and they must decide whether they are each willing to expose their own secrets to help . . . or if remaining invisible is the only way to survive middle school.

With text in English and Spanish, Invisible features a groundbreaking format paired with an engaging, accessible, and relatable storyline. This Breakfast Club-inspired story by Christina Diaz Gonzalez, award-winning author of Concealed, and Gabriela Epstein, illustrator of two Baby-Sitters Club graphic novel adaptations, is a must-have graphic novel about unexpected friendships and being seen for who you really are.

View Details >>

Max in the House of Spies

Adam Gidwitz

An acclaimed Best Book of 2024! 

Instant New York Times bestseller • Wall Street Journal Best Books of the Year • Booklist Editors’ Choice • Publishers Weekly Best Books of the Year • School Library Journal Best Books of the Year • Common Sense Best Books of the Year • Imagination Soup Best Books of the Year Tablet Magazine Best Books of the Year 

Max in the House of Spies is everything you could hope for in a book,” -R. J. Palacio, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Wonder, White Bird, and Pony

“Espionage! Secrets! Suspense! If you’ve ever dreamed of being a spy, this book is for you.” -Alan Gratz, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Refugee and Projekt 1065

Max Bretzfeld doesn’t want to move to London.

Leaving home is hard and Max is alone for the first time in his life. But not for long. Max is surprised to discover that he’s been joined by two unexpected traveling companions, one on each shoulder, a kobold and a dybbuk named Berg and Stein.

Germany is becoming more and more dangerous for Jewish families, but Max is determined to find a way back home, and back to his parents. He has a plan to return to Berlin. It merely involves accomplishing the impossible: becoming a British spy.

The first book in a duology, Max in the House of Spies is a thought-provoking World War II story as only acclaimed storyteller Adam Gidwitz can tell it—fast-paced and hilarious, with a dash of magic and a lot of heart.

View Details >>

The City of Ember

Jeanne DuPrau

NATIONAL BESTSELLER • Ember is the only light in a dark world. But when its lamps begin to flicker, two friends must race to escape the dark. This highly acclaimed adventure series is a modern-day classic—with over 4 MILLION copies sold! 

The city of Ember was built as a last refuge for the human race. Two hundred years later, the great lamps that light the city are beginning to dim. When Lina finds part of an ancient message, she’s sure it holds a secret that will save the city. Now, she and her friend Doon must race to figure out the clues to keep the lights on. If they succeed, they will have to convince everyone to follow them into danger. But if they fail? The lights will burn out and the darkness will close in forever.

Nominated to 28 State Award Lists!
An American Library Association Notable Children’s Book
A New York Public Library 100 Titles for Reading and Sharing Selection
A Kirkus Reviews Editors’ Choice
A Child Magazine Best Children’s Book
A Mark Twain Award Winner
A William Allen White Children’s Book Award Winner

“A realistic post-apocalyptic world. DuPrau’s book leaves Doon and Lina on the verge of undiscovered country and readers wanting more.” —USA Today

“An electric debut.” —Publishers Weekly, Starred 

“While Ember is colorless and dark, the book itself is rich with description.” —VOYA, Starred

“A harrowing journey into the unknown, and cryptic messages for readers to decipher.” —Kirkus Reviews, Starred

View Details >>

One Big Open Sky

Lesa Cline-Ransome

Three women narrate a perilous wagon journey westward that could set them free—or cost them everything they have—in this intergenerational verse novel that explores the history of the Black homesteader movement.

1879, Mississippi. Young dreamer Lettie may have her head in the stars, but her body is on a covered wagon heading westward. Her father, Thomas, promises that Nebraska will be everything the family needs: an opportunity to claim the independence they’ve strived for over generations on their very own plot of land.

But Thomas’ hopes—and mouth—are bigger than his ability to follow through. With few supplies and even less money, the only thing that feels certain is danger.


Right after the war ended/and we were free/we believed/all of us did/that couldn’t nothing hurt us/the way master had when we were slaves/Couldn’t no one tell us/how to live/how to die.

Lettie, her mother, Sylvia, and young teacher Philomena are free from slavery—but bound by poverty, access to opportunity, and patriarchal social structures. Will these women survive the hardships of their journey? And as Thomas’ desire for control overpowers his common sense, will they truly be free once they get there?

Coretta Scott King Honor-winning author Lesa Cline-Ransome’s striking verse masterfully portrays an underrepresented historical era. Tackling powerful themes of autonomy and Black self-emancipation, Cline-Ransome offers readers an intimate look into the lives of three women and an expansive portrait of generations striving for their promised freedom.

A Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection
One of Evanston Public Library's 101 Great Books for Kids
A CSMCL Best Multicultural Children’s Book of the Year

View Details >>

Lunch Money

Andrew Clements

MEET GREG KENTON, BILLIONAIRE IN THE MAKING. 

Greg Kenton has two obsessions -- making money and his long-standing competition with his annoying neighbor, Maura Shaw. So when Greg discovers that Maura is cutting into his booming Chunky Comics business with her own original illustrated minibooks, he's ready to declare war. 

The problem is, Greg has to admit that Maura's books are good, and soon the longtime enemies become unlikely business partners. But their budding partnership is threatened when the principal bans the sale of their comics in school. Suddenly, the two former rivals find themselves united against an adversary tougher than they ever were to each other. Will their enterprise -- and their friendship -- prevail?

View Details >>

Aru Shah and the End of Time (A Pandava Novel, Book 1)

Roshani Chokshi

Best-selling author Rick Riordan introduces this adventure by Roshani Chokshi about twelve-year-old Aru Shah, who has a tendency to stretch the truth in order to fit in at school. While her classmates are jetting off to family vacations in exotic locales, she'll be spending her autumn break at home, in the Museum of Ancient Indian Art and Culture, waiting for her mom to return from her latest archeological trip. Is it any wonder that Aru makes up stories about being royalty, traveling to Paris, and having a chauffeur? One day, three schoolmates show up at Aru's doorstep to catch her in a lie. They don't believe her claim that the museum's Lamp of Bharata is cursed, and they dare Aru to prove it. Just a quick light, Aru thinks. Then she can get herself out of this mess and never ever fib again. But lighting the lamp has dire consequences. She unwittingly frees the Sleeper, an ancient demon whose duty it is to awaken the God of Destruction. Her classmates and beloved mother are frozen in time, and it's up to Aru to save them. The only way to stop the demon is to find the reincarnations of the five legendary Pandava brothers, protagonists of the Hindu epic poem, the Mahabharata, and journey through the Kingdom of Death. But how is one girl in Spider-Man pajamas supposed to do all that?

View Details >>

Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing

Judy Blume

The #1 New York Times bestselling author's first book in her classic Fudge series.

"As a kid, Judy Blume was my favorite author, and Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing was my favorite book."—Jeff Kinney, author of the bestselling Wimpy Kid series

“Each [Fudge book] is packed with wacky earthy disasters that are her trademark and that children love to read about . . . Judy Blume has a knack for knowing what children think about and an honest, highly amusing way of writing about it.”—The New York Times

Two is a crowd when Peter and his little brother, Fudge, are in the same room. Grown-ups think Fudge is absolutely adorable, but Peter and his pet turtle, Dribble, know the truth. From throwing temper tantrums to smearing mashed potatoes on the wall, Fudge causes mischief wherever he goes!

Love Fudge, Peter, and Sheila? Read all these books featuring your favorite characters:
Otherwise Known as Sheila the Great
Superfudge
Fudge-a-Mania
Double Fudge

View Details >>

The Enemy's Daughter

Anne Blankman

In the spirit of Lauren Wolk and Ruta Sepetys comes the tale of a girl fighting her way back home after surviving the sinking of the Lusitania—and learning to think for herself rather than accept the prejudice of wartime.

The year is 1915 and the world is at war. Marta and her father are passengers on the Lusitania, desperately trying to get back home to Germany. While aboard, they must keep their identities hidden or risk being mistaken for enemy spies. Then the Lusitania is attacked by a German submarine. They just make it off the sinking ship, but her father is discovered and detained. Marta suddenly finds herself alone in enemy land.

To survive, Marta must draw upon a deep well of bravery she never knew she had. Fortunately, she meets Clare, a young Irish girl who can talk a mile a minute, and her kind family. Believing that Marta is a Dutch refugee, they welcome her into their home. She can't risk letting her new friends know she's actually from Germany—the very nation that the Irish and English are fighting against. But could these people who have shown her nothing but kindness truly be her enemy? 

Sweeping from the Irish Sea to a cathedral city in England, this story shows us that friendship, especially in times of war, may be the greatest gift of all.

View Details >>

El Deafo

Cece Bell

New York Times Bestseller

A 2015 Newbery Honor Book Going to school and making new friends can be tough. But going to school and making new friends while wearing a bulky hearing aid strapped to your chest? That requires superpowers! In this funny, poignant graphic novel memoir, author/illustrator Cece Bell chronicles her hearing loss at a young age and her subsequent experiences with the Phonic Ear, a very powerful--and very awkward--hearing aid.
The Phonic Ear gives Cece the ability to hear--sometimes things she shouldn't--but also isolates her from her classmates. She really just wants to fit in and find a true friend, someone who appreciates her as she is. After some trouble, she is finally able to harness the power of the Phonic Ear and become "El Deafo, Listener for All." And more importantly, declare a place for herself in the world and find the friend she's longed for.

PRAISE FOR EL DEAFO
STARRED REVIEWS
"A standout autobiography. Someone readers will enjoy getting to know."
--Publishers Weekly, starred review

"Worthy of a superhero."
--Kirkus Reviews, starred review

"This empowering autobiographical story belongs right next to Raina Telgemeier's Smile (2011) and Liz Prince's Tomboy."
--Booklist

View Details >>

Sea Legs

Jules Bakes

Set sail for adventure! Dive in to this hilarious and moving middle grade graphic memoir about friendship, growing up, and life at sea.

 

Janey's family is about to set sail for the adventure of a lifetime! The only problem? Janey must leave her school, her life, her best friend, the entire country behind for new adventures -- coral reefs, colorful markets, and new cultures. Life at sea is exhilarating, but there's a major downside: when you're raising anchor every few days with sights on a new harbor, it's almost impossible to make new friends.

 

Finally, Janey meets the cool and aloof Astrid -- a fellow boat kid who's equally starved for friendship. But Astrid can be a challenging friend to navigate, and beyond that, hurricane season has only just begun . . . .

 

At turns laugh-out-loud hilarious and heartbreakingly poignant, this stunning middle grade graphic memoir charts both the turbulence and joys of growing up.

 

 

View Details >>

A Royal Conundrum (The Misfits)

Lisa Yee

NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • When a notorious thief is out for priceless treasure (gems! cats! general decorum!)—who're you gonna call? An elite team of crime-fighting underdogs, that's who! The Misfits are on the case in this hilarious series from Newbery Honoree Lisa Yee and Caldecott Medalist Dan Santat!

“For any kid who’s felt like a misfit, this crackling adventure packs a wallop!” —Lincoln Peirce, creator of Big Nate and Max & the Midknights

Olive Cobin Zang has . . . issues. And they mostly aren’t her fault. (No, really!) Though she often slips under the radar, problems have a knack for finding her. So, imagine her doubts when she’s suddenly dropped off at the strangest boarding school ever: a former castle turned prison that's now a “reforming arts school”!

But nothing could’ve prepared Olive for RASCH (not “rash”). There, she’s lumped with a team of other kids who never quite fit in, and discovers that the academy isn’t what it seems—and neither is she. In fact, RASCH is a cover for an elite group of misfits who fight crime . . . and Olive has arrived just in time.

Turns out that RASCH is in danger of closing, unless Olive’s class can stop the heist of the century. And as Olive falls in love with this wacky school, she realizes it’s up to her new team to save the only home that’s ever welcomed them.

View Details >>

Sir Ladybug

Corey R. Tabor



 

From Caldecott Honoree and two-time Geisel Award-winning author-illustrator Corey R. Tabor, this is a fresh and funny young graphic novel series sure to delight readers. Perfect for fans of Catwad, Bird & Squirrel, and Narwhal & Jelly.

Ladies and gentlebugs, presenting the duke of the dandelion patch, champion of truth and justice, the one, the only--Sir Ladybug!

Sir Ladybug never shies away from a quest, even when he'd rather be playing a video game or baking a cake. So when a caterpillar needs rescuing from a "monster" (a hungry chickadee), Sir Ladybug and his trusty friends--his herald, a roly-poly named Pell, and his squire, a snail named Sterling--hatch the perfect (delicious) plan.

This is the first in a new graphic novel series for newly independent readers, following the adventures of a ladybug knight and his pals in the dandelion patch.

Woven seamlessly into this funny and surprising story are the themes of friendship, bravery, teamwork, creative thinking, and helping others. With warmth and heart, surprising and delightful asides, and memorable cast of characters, this new series will appeal to avid and reluctant readers alike.

View Details >>

Fitz and Cleo

Jonathan Stutzman

The dynamo team behind Llama Destroys the World invites you to meet the stars of their first graphic novel—Fitz and Cleo! If you’re a fan of Narwhal and Jelly or Owly, get ready to fall head over heels for this brother-and-sister duo.

Fitz and Cleo are siblings by chance, but best friends by choice. Oh, and they also happen to be ghosts!

Join Cleo, a happy-go-lucky kind of gal, and Fitz, her science-minded brother, as they laugh their way through eleven gut-busting stories, including exploring the beach with a new friend, enjoying some ice cream, playing baseball, and gazing at the stars.

Jonathan Stutzman and Heather Fox, the creative team responsible for your favorite doomsday-prone Llama, team up again for a silly and heartwarming graphic novel that is perfect for newly independent readers and comics enthusiasts. The book highlights just how wonderful the world can be when you mix a little fun with some great friends.

View Details >>

Troubling Tonsils!

Aaron Reynolds

Three starred reviews!
An instant #1 New York Times bestseller!

“Beautiful to the eye and sure to delight younger horror enthusiasts” —Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

From the team behind the New York Times bestselling and Caldecott Medal–winning Creepy Carrots! and its sequels comes the first entry in a spin-off chapter book series in which Jasper Rabbit tells the story of a young marmot whose tonsils get the better of him.

Jasper the Rabbit is back! A little older and wiser, he collects creepy stories to share as cautionary tales. If you’re ready for some chills and chuckles alike, tune in as Jasper weaves the yarn of Charlie Marmot and the particular pickle he found himself in.

See, Charlie here has a problem: his tonsils have become infected and have to come out. No biggie, right? But when he decides he wants to keep them in a jar for show and tell, things get creepy… First, strange slurping sounds in his room keep Charlie awake the night before his surgery. Then, he goes to the doctor only to be told his tonsils are already gone! Could it be they’re out for revenge?

Join Jasper and Charlie in this first Creepy Tale chapter book and learn from Charlie’s mistakes before it’s too late!

View Details >>

Jo Jo Makoons: the Used-To-Be Best Friend

Dawn Quigley



 

American Indian Youth Literature Award: Middle Grade Honor Book! Hello/Boozhoo--meet Jo Jo Makoons! Full of pride, joy, and plenty of humor, this first book in an all-new chapter book series by Dawn Quigley celebrates a spunky young Ojibwe girl who loves who she is.

Jo Jo Makoons Azure is a spirited seven-year-old who moves through the world a little differently than anyone else on her Ojibwe reservation. It always seems like her mom, her kokum (grandma), and her teacher have a lot to learn--about how good Jo Jo is at cleaning up, what makes a good rhyme, and what it means to be friendly.

Even though Jo Jo loves her #1 best friend Mimi (who is a cat), she's worried that she needs to figure out how to make more friends. Because Fern, her best friend at school, may not want to be friends anymore...

The Heartdrum imprint centers a wide range of intertribal voices, visions, and stories while welcoming all young readers, with an emphasis on the present and future of Indian Country and on the strength of young Native heroes. In partnership with We Need Diverse Books.

View Details >>

The House Next Door

Ellen Oh

For fans of Not Quite a Ghost and Ghost Squad, acclaimed middle grade author Ellen Oh of Spirit Hunters and an APALA Honoree delivers a new spooky novel about young hero Rory and the creepy house next door. Filled with scary spirits, mysterious noises, and malevolent forces, the house has tormented many souls, and Rory must do everything he can to prevent the new neighbors from becoming its next victims. We Need Diverse Books cofounder Ellen Oh delivers another heart-pounding story that you won't be able to put down.

Home is where the sinister lives. Rory Parker knows not to step a foot in, on, or around the house next door. He's seen things creeping in the shadows, has had encounters with spirits, and lost a best friend to the house's malevolence. But when his new neighbors, Jack and his lovable family, move into the house next door, Rory makes it his duty to protect them at all costs.

But the vicious forces lying within the house are plotting something evil, something that puts Jack's little sister in extreme danger. Soon, Rory understands he'll need the help of his new friend and some friendly ghosts in order to stand a chance at defeating whatever lurks within its walls for good. But what exactly lives in the house next door, and will Rory and Jack find out in time to save the day, or can its evil never be evicted?

  • Perfect for Halloween reading
  • Features light scares
  • A charming cozy seasonal pick



 

View Details >>

Because of the Rabbit

Cynthia Lord

Newbery Honor-winning author Cynthia Lord has written a sensitive and accessible book about the challenges of fitting in when you know you're a little different.

 

On the last night of summer, Emma tags along with her game warden father on a routine call. They're supposed to rescue a wild rabbit from a picket fence, but instead they find a little bunny. Emma convinces her father to bring him home for the night.The next day, Emma starts public school for the very first time after years of being homeschooled. More than anything, Emma wants to make a best friend in school. But things don't go as planned. On the first day of school, she's paired with a boy named Jack for a project. He can't stay on topic, he speaks out of turn, and he's obsessed with animals. Jack doesn't fit in, and Emma's worried he'll make her stand out.Emma and Jack bond over her rescue rabbit. But will their new friendship keep Emma from finding the new best friend she's meant to have? Newbery Honor-winning author Cynthia Lord has written a beautiful and sensitive book about being different and staying true to yourself.

View Details >>

Surviving the Wild: Rainbow the Koala

Remy Lai

Planet Earth meets Narwhal and Jelly in this funny and suspenseful early reader graphic novel series featuring heroic animals surviving in the perilous wilderness! Inspired by true events, the book includes facts about climate change, koalas, and how kids can help protect the environment.

"A heartening and pensive story, told through irresistibly charming art, Star the Elephant is an utter delight." —John Patrick Green, New York Times-bestselling creator of InvestiGators, on Star the Elephant

Rainbow the Koala is ready to go off and live on his own—or so his mom says. But Rainbow is scared! The kookaburra bird cackles at him and he struggles to find a tree to call his home. As scorching heat takes hold and Rainbow runs out of water, he'll soon face his most dangerous test: surviving a bush fire.

View Details >>

Maybe Maybe Marisol Rainey

Erin Entrada Kelly

"Utterly endearing!" --Annie Barrows, New York Times-bestselling author of the Ivy + Bean books

"Hilarious and heart-melting." --Sara Pennypacker, New York Times-bestselling author of Pax

Introducing eight-year-old Marisol Rainey--an irresistible new character from Newbery Medal winning and New York Times-bestselling Erin Entrada Kelly!

Maybe, Maybe Marisol Rainey is an illustrated novel about summer, friendship, and overcoming fears, told with warm humor and undeniable appeal. Fans of Clementine, The Year of Billy Miller, and Ramona the Pest will be thrilled to meet Marisol.

Marisol Rainey's mother was born in the Philippines. Marisol's father works and lives part-time on an oil rig in the Gulf of Mexico. And Marisol, who has a big imagination and likes to name inanimate objects, has a tree in her backyard she calls Peppina . . . but she's way too scared to climb it. This all makes Marisol the only girl in her small Louisiana town with a mother who was born elsewhere and a father who lives elsewhere (most of the time)--the only girl who's fearful of adventure and fun.

Will Marisol be able to salvage her summer and have fun with Jada, her best friend? Maybe. Will Marisol figure out how to get annoying Evie Smythe to leave her alone? Maybe. Will Marisol ever get to spend enough real time with her father? Maybe. Will Marisol find the courage to climb Peppina? Maybe.

Told in short chapters with illustrations by the author on nearly every page, Maybe, Maybe Marisol Rainey is a must-have for early elementary grade readers. Erin Entrada Kelly celebrates the small but mighty Marisol, the joys of friendship, and the triumph of overcoming your fears in this stunning new novel for readers of Kevin Henkes, Meg Medina, Andrew Clements, Sara Pennypacker, and Kate DiCamillo.

Features black-and-white artwork throughout by Erin Entrada Kelly.

View Details >>

Seashell Key (Seashell Key #1)

Lourdes Heuer

Seashell Key is the first in author Lourdes Heuer and award-winning illustrator Lynnor Bontigao's young chapter book series--perfect for fans of Princess in Black and Mercy Watson, about a diverse community of kids living in a beautiful seaside town!

Welcome to Seashell Key! Summer is here, and the children of this cozy coastal town are ready to welcome visitors to their little oasis. There's Mateo, who runs his little kite-making business, Sail and Soar, alongside his dad's Sky and Sea store; Sasha and Sophia, who comb the seashore next to their mother's sandwich stand; and Eli, Ezra, and Elana, who live in the cozy-but-cramped lighthouse and entertain passing tourists with tall tales.

Filled with a vibrant cast and lots of summery fun, this is the start of an exciting chapter book series.

The Seashell Key series

Seashell Key (Seashell Key #1)

The Monster Storm (Seashell Key #2)

The Lucky Day (Seashell Key #3)

View Details >>

Casey's Cases: The Mysterious New Girl

Kay Healy

Diary of a Wimpy Kid meets Nancy Drew meets Amelia Bedelia in this hilarious young graphic novel series featuring an aspiring detective who will solve any case . . . usually accidentally.

Casey wants nothing more than to be a detective. No mystery is too big or small for her to tackle! OK, so she doesn’t see everything coming—mean girl Dina always has the last word, and Casey is constantly falling into embarrassing disasters in front of cute boy AJ. 

But now, it’s Casey’s eleventh birthday, and she’s just been given a magnifying glass and a pair of binoculars—perfect gifts for today’s mystery: Mr. Muffin, a cat Casey’s parents insist is too big to be a hungry stray. Will Casey manage to convince them he belongs with her? More importantly, could that new girl in school be the perfect contender for a new best friend? Casey’s on the job, and she won’t stop till all cases are closed. 

Fresh talent Kay Healy’s winsome heroine, crackling wit, and charmingly geometric characters alchemize to comedy gold. Voracious young comics fans won’t want to miss Casey’s laugh-out-loud debut.

A Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection

View Details >>

Wednesday Wilson Gets Down to Business

Bree Galbraith

Meet the unbeatable hero of a fresh new early chapter book series — Wednesday Wilson! The most important thing to know about Wednesday Wilson is that she’s an entrepreneur. Well, she almost is. She and her best friend, Charlie, are hard at work thinking up business ideas to make it big. Only now there’s been an incident with the Emmas (whose last initials happen to spell M.E.A.N.) involving a bearded dragon named Morten and a piece of kale . . . it’s a long story. But maybe this is just the opportunity Wednesday and her friends needed. Maybe they’ll invent something brilliant that will save the day and make them millionaires. Or . . . not? It’ll take more than one incident with the Emmas to keep this girl down. Wednesday Wilson is bound for success!

View Details >>

The Unlikely Heroes Club

Kate Foster

"This well-designed, empowering tale invites middle grade readers into the perspective of one autistic youth and will appeal to individuals, classrooms, and book clubs alike." --School Library Journal (starred review)

Five dog-loving autistic kids have a mission to accomplish--and a mystery to solve--in a delightful ode to idiosyncrasies from the author of All the Small Wonderful Things.

Eleven-year-old Oli is spending his spring break at Heroes Club, where autistic kids like him can build friendships and learn about their emotions. Sounds fun, right? No. Nothing like a week of forced socialization and emotional learning to ruin summer break. Oli just wants to be home, where it's familiar, not so boring, and he can play games on his phone. But when Oli and the other kids at the club see a stray dog who keeps disappearing into a soon-to-be-demolished building across the street, they hatch a daring rescue plan to save the dog before it's too late. It's going to take bravery, some seriously smart teamwork, and a few broken rules to make a difference. For Oli and his new friends in the Heroes Club, making use of their unique talents and perspectives--together--will be a challenge. But doing the right thing is entirely worth it. The Unlikely Heroes Club is a celebration of friendship and community that is sure to make your heart sing.

View Details >>

Story Spinners

Cassandra Federman

The Princess Bride meets Raina Telgemeier’s Sisters in this middle grade graphic novel about two sisters who must put aside their differences to soothe their new baby sister with the best bedtime story ever, proving to their parents—and each other—that they can get along.

Big sister Kennedy and little sister Devon couldn’t be more different. Their shared room has a clear divide down the middle. On one, musical theater–loving Kennedy keeps things tidy. On the other, heavy metal fan Devon looks like she lives in an exploded toy store. When baby sister Eve moves in, her contribution is crying. Constant. Ear-piercing. Crying.

The added stress pushes the older girls to their breaking point, and they get into their biggest fight yet. In response, Mom and Dad crack down, seizing all beloved electronics until Kennedy and Devon can find a way to get along. Now stuck together with no distractions except Eve’s screaming, the two land on a desperate solution: tell Eve a bedtime story so epic that it puts her to sleep and gets her big sisters out of trouble.

Pizza aside, the only thing the girls have in common is their love of stories. But Kennedy’s fairy tales make Devon want to barf, and Devon’s nonsensical adventure stories make Kennedy want to tear her hair out. So they try to mash-up a story of true love, adventure, princesses, pirates, pirate-princesses, dragons, spiders, and…garbage trucks?

That’s a lot of story to spin. Will their hilarious fairy tale remix solidify their sisterly bond or break it forever after?

View Details >>

Marya Khan and the Incredible Henna Party (Marya Khan #1)

Saadia Faruqi

Perfect for fans of Ivy & Bean and Dory Fantasmagory, Marya Khan and the Incredible Henna Party is the start of a charming chapter book series from acclaimed author Saadia Faruqi about a Pakistani American third-grader whose plans may backfire but whose persistence and heart are inspiring.

Marya's eighth birthday is coming up in a week, and all she wants is an over-the-top birthday party just like the ones Alexa, her rich neighbor, always throws. When Alexa parades into school with fancy invitations, Marya can't help herself--she claims that she's having the most epic henna party ever. Now she has to convince her family to make it happen.

Enter Operation Help the Khans! Marya's siblings clearly need help with their projects. Maybe she could cook dinner for her parents, or clean her grandmother's room? Except everything Marya does seems to end in disaster. Will Marya and her family be able pull it together and throw the best party ever?!

Featuring black-and-white illustrations by Ani Bushry and a selection of henna designs to trace and color.

View Details >>

Orris and Timble: The Beginning

Kate DiCamillo

From beloved storyteller Kate DiCamillo comes the first book in a warm and funny early-reader trilogy about a misanthropic rat and a naive owl--and the beginning of a beautiful friendship.

Orris the rat lives alone in an old barn surrounded by his treasures, until the day his solitude is disrupted by a sudden flutter of wings and a loud screech. A small owl has gotten caught in a trap in the barn. Can Orris "make the good and noble choice" (as the king on his prized sardine can might recommend) and rescue the owl, despite the fact that owls and rats are natural enemies? And if he does, will he be ready for the consequences? With humor and tenderness, two-time Newbery Medalist Kate DiCamillo brings us this first of three tales celebrating unlikely friendship and the power of sharing stories and doing the right thing--a soon-to-be classic brought to expressive life by the full-color illustrations of Carmen Mok.

View Details >>

They Call Me No Sam!

Drew Daywalt



 

  • An Instant New York Times Bestseller
  • An Indie Next Pick
  • A "howlingly funny tale." --ALA Booklist (starred review)



 

From Drew Daywalt, the #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Day the Crayons Quit, and illustrator Mike Lowery comes a heavily illustrated, paper-over-board middle grade novel about Sam, a noble pug who will go to any lengths to protect his family from the bad guys!

Meet Sam: an insolent pug--and incidental hero--who will stop at nothing to protect his family!

When scientists Elaine and Gary Peterson adopt Sam to keep their son, Justin, company in the midst of a top-secret research project, they never imagine the precocious pup will cause more harm than good. But from chewing up Elaine's hair dryer (the "brain-melting heat cannon") to his inability to be house-trained (who could resist the "pooping rug"), the Petersons aren't sure how much more they can take. And that's before Sam starts harassing Justin's crush (and potential new friend), Phoebe, who Sam is sure is an evil wizard out to harm Justin.

But when a pair of crooks encroaches on the Peterson household in an attempt to steal their confidential findings, Sam's actions--never mind his reasoning for them--just may save the day.

View Details >>

Beezus and Ramona

Beverly Cleary

Ramona Quimby is the youngest of all the famous characters in Mrs. Cleary's wonderful Henry Huggins stories. She is also far and away the most deadly. Readers of the earlier books will remember that Ramona has always been a menace to Beezus, her older sister, to Henry, and to his dog Ribsy. It is not that Ramona deliberately sets out to make trouble for other people. She simply has more imagination than is healthy for any one person.

In this book Ramona and her imagination really come into their own. Starting with a fairly mild encounter with the librarian, which is harder on Beezus than anyone else, Ramona goes from strength to strength, winding up by inviting her entire kindergarten class to a part at her home without mentioning it to her mother. The riot that ensues is probably the most hilarious episode in this extremely funny book, which proves that Mrs. Cleary's imagination is almost as lively as Ramona's.

View Details >>

Bulldozer Goes to School

Elise Broach

Bulldozer is nervous about his new school year and worried he won't fit in. His friend Millie tries to reassure him, but Bulldozer isn't convinced...especially when he gets to his classroom and things start going wrong. But just when he's sure his day couldn't get worse, something amazing happens! The first day of school proves to be special for everyone, all because of Bulldozer.



Perfect for kids learning how to read on their own, the second book in this endearing series follows Bulldozer through the challenges and rewards of going to school.



"This deceptively simple story successfully addresses the fears and worries of young children and offers positive solutions that will encourage the resilience needed to overcome them. The five chapters use simple vocabulary that makes the story accessible to young readers. A collection of creative word play activities in the back helps students build and enhance their reading skills. . . simple black-and-white line drawings shaded in orange, yellow, and gray that beautifully captured the heart of the story. VERDICT Sure to be a hit with vehicle lovers, this engaging title for early chapter book readers cleverly uses a bulldozer child protagonist to address social fears about new situations and friendships. Highly recommended." - School Library Journal, starred review

View Details >>

Stella and Marigold

Annie Barrows

Now in paperback! From the creators of the New York Times-bestselling Ivy + Bean comes a fun and funny new series about two small sisters with very big imaginations.

★ "In the vein of Ramona Quimby." --Kirkus Reviews, starred review

"Stella and Marigold are a force to be reckoned with." --The Horn Book

★ -- "Readers will long for a sibling like Marigold or Stella." --Publishers Weekly, starred review

★ -- "Buoyed by an innate sense of fun. . . This early chapter book... [is] equally enjoyable for reading aloud in homes and classrooms." --Booklist, starred review

Generations of readers have fallen in love with Ivy + Bean, which has sold over 8 million copies and been adapted into a popular Netflix Original Film series. Now, bestselling author Annie Barrows and illustrator Sophie Blackall are back with the first book in a bright new series about a pair of sisters named Stella and Marigold.

Stella, who's seven, is kind, a good storyteller, and ponders big questions like, what do animals think of people? Marigold, at four, tells imaginative stories (her mother calls them "fibs") and likes to wear her favorite Halloween costume year-round. Stella and Marigold do all the regular things--like going to school, playing, getting sick sometimes, and visiting the zoo--but even the most regular things have a secret side.

Sure to delight fans of Ivy and Bean, these adventure tales--animated with full-color illustrations of the sisters' encounters with magical bathrooms, snow monkeys, dream lions, howling wolves, a lost Vice President, and much more--are filled with vibrant characters, creative storytelling, and a whole lot of laughs.

BELOVED CHILDREN'S BOOK CREATORS: Annie Barrows is the author of numerous award-winning and New York Times-bestselling books for children and adults, including The Magic Half, The Best of Iggy Series, and The Truth According to Us. Sophie Blackall is an award-winning illustrator of over 50 books for children, including the 2016 Caldecott Medal winner Finding Winnie and the 2019 Caldecott Medal winner Hello Lighthouse, which she also wrote.

CLASSIC / CONTEMPORARY CHARACTERS: No one creates universal yet unique characters the way Annie and Sophie do. Their distinctive combination of stories and art centered on family connection, empathy, and understanding appeal to adults, who find them lovely, and kids, who find them relatable (and laugh-out-loud funny!).

GREAT FOR NEWLY INDEPENDENT READERS: With lots of adventure, a dynamic relationship that captures an enormous range of emotions, and colorful pictures that bring the text to life, this series is perfect for emerging readers.

STRONG SIBLING RELATIONSHIP: The warm, loving relationship between Stella and Marigold is at the heart of this book. Parents looking for a positive depiction of the ups and downs of sisterhood will love this series.

Perfect for:

  • Independent readers age 6-9
  • Parents, teachers, and librarians seeking entertaining elementary school chapter books
  • Gift-givers looking for an early readers series for kids who enjoy stories full of humor and heart
  • Readers who love such bestselling book series as Ivy + Bean, Junie B. Jones, Beezus and Ramona, Dory Fantasmagory, and Princess in Black
View Details >>

Super Detectives! (Simon and Chester Book #1)

Cale Atkinson

A ghost and a kid team up to solve mysteries and kick butt! A hilarious new graphic novel series for fans of Bad Guys and Dog Man.

Welcome to the world of Simon and Chester, ghost and boy duo extraordinaire.
They like to kick butt and take names.
They don't like chores.
They are best friends.
And they are about to solve the MYSTERY OF A LIFETIME.
(Oh, and eat some snacks probably.)

Join Simon and Chester in their first adventure, and fall in love with this hilarious odd couple by fan favorite author and illustrator Cale Atkinson.

View Details >>

Dogtown

Katherine Applegate

The New York Times bestseller, Indie bestseller, and Amazon Best Children's Book from beloved authors Katherine Applegate and Gennifer Choldenko and with illustrations by Wallace West, Dogtown is at once an uplifting story and a page-turning adventure, sure to find a forever home in readers’ hearts.

Dogtown is a shelter for stray dogs, misbehaving dogs, and discarded robot dogs, whose owners have outgrown them.

Chance, a real dog, has been in Dogtown since her owners unwittingly left her with irresponsible dog-sitters who skipped town.

Metal Head is a robot dog who dreams of being back in a real home.

And Mouse is a mouse who has the run of Dogtown, pilfering kibble, and performing clever feats to protect the dogs he loves.

When Chance and Metal Head embark on an adventure to find their forever homes, there is danger, cheese sandwiches, a charging station, and some unexpected kindnesses along the way.

View Details >>

Rise of the Earth Dragon

Tracey West

The New York Times bestselling Dragon Masters series is How to Train Your Dragon meets the Dragon Slayers' Academy, and it's perfect for newly independent readers!

 

Pick a book. Grow a reader.

 

This series is part of Scholastic's early chapter book line called Branches, which is aimed at newly independent readers. With easy-to-read text, high-interest content, fast-paced plots, and illustrations on every page, these books will boost reading confidence and stamina. Branches books help readers grow!

 

DRAGON MASTERS has it all! Dragons, a Dragon Stone, a king, a wizard, and magic! In the first book in this fully-illustrated series, 8-year old Drake is snatched up by King Roland's soldier and taken to the castle. He is to be trained as a Dragon Master. At the castle, he is joined by three other young Dragon Masters-in-training: Ana, Rori, and Bo. The Dragon Masters must learn how to connect with and train their dragons--and they must also uncover their dragons' special powers. Does Drake have what it takes to be a Dragon Master? What is his dragon's special power?

View Details >>

All Paws on Deck

Jessica Young

This series is part of Scholastic's early chapter book line called Branches, which is aimed at newly independent readers. With easy-to-read text, high-interest content, fast-paced plots, and illustrations on every page, these books will boost reading confidence and stamina. Branches books help readers grow! 
Tank is a clumsy, outgoing Great Dane. Haggis is a dapper and grumpy Scottie dog. In the first book in the series, Haggis and Tank set sail as pirates. At first, Haggis doesn't see what Tank does--that an adventure awaits them with just a little imagination! But soon, Haggis joins in the fun and the two friends go on a pirate adventure. They talk like pirates, swab the deck, and even search for buried treasure. This series is full of clever wordplay and homophones that make Haggis and Tank's adventures even more fun!

View Details >>

Charlie & Mouse & Grumpy: Book 2 (Beginner Chapter Books, Charlie and Mouse Book Series)

Laurel Snyder

In this heartwarming sequel to Laurel Snyder's children story book, Charlie & Mouse, the two brothers enjoy a special visit from their grandpa, Grumpy. Follow along as they discuss being medium, pounce each other, sing the wrong songs, build blanket forts, and more. Paired with effervescent illustrations by Emily Hughes, this touching, funny children's book is a celebration of imagination and bonding will enchant young readers.

View Details >>

Cowgirl Kate and Cocoa

Erica Silverman

In this new boot-stompin' adventure, Cowgirl Kate and Cocoa are going to school. Well, Cowgirl Kate is going--horses are not allowed. Luckily, there's plenty of time after school to make a new friend and have fun doing homework. One lesson Cowgirl Kate and Cocoa both learn . . . they're best partners no matter what. 
With its snappy text and sweet, silly illustrations, this third book in the Cowgirl Kate and Cocoa series is sure to rope in young cowhands everywhere. 
 

View Details >>

Pizza and Taco: Best Party Ever!

Stephen Shaskan

The second in a hilarious young graphic novel series about Pizza and Taco. This time around Pizza and Taco are bored, so they decide to throw an awesome party! What could possibly go wrong?

Pizza and Taco have the oh-so-relatable problem of not knowing what to do when boredom strikes. The answer? Throw a party! They have a location, a guest list, and decorations. Everything is perfect . . . until it isn't. In fact, it's kind of a DISASTER! Ice Cream has a meltdown, and who knew Hamburger was lactose intolerant? (Who invited Cheeseburger anyway?) Well, now they know how NOT to throw a party!!

This hilarious young graphic novel--with chapters--will tickle the funny bones of kids ages 5-8 and bolster their reading confidence. Graphic chapter books serve as a great bridge to graphic novels and longer chapter books. 

Readers will devour all the books in the series:
Pizza and Taco: Who's the Best?
Pizza and Taco: Best Party Ever!
Pizza and Taco: Super-Awesome Comic!
Pizza and Taco: Too Cool For School
Pizza and Taco: Rock Out!

View Details >>

Nate the Great and the Pillowcase

Marjorie Weinman Sharmat

It's two o'clock in the morning when the telephone rings and Nate the Great learns that Rosamond's pillowcase is missing. She needs it now because her cat, Big Hex, likes to sleep on it. 
Outside it is damp, dark, and dreary, but a good (yawning) sleuth knows that the hunt must go on. Can Nate the Great find the missing piece of laundry before the sun comes up, and before his bedroom slippers wear out?

View Details >>

Joan in the Cone

Billy Sharff

For fans of Grumpy Monkey and The Pout-Pout Fish comes the heroic tale of one dog's journey to cope with life's inconveniences and all its . . . accessories

“Perfect for fans of Doug Salati's Hot Dog.” —Booklist

Joan’s life is wonderful, wild, and grand—
running and playing as much as she can!
Days full of fun, where she’s never alone.
And then . . .
came . . .
the cone.

For Joan the dog, life is different now. With her cone, she gets trapped in the doggy door. And she doesn't command the same respect she once did at the dog park. Through funny challenges and mortifications, Joan reflects on her pre-cone glory days, including what led to her injury (let's just say, certain choices were made). But with time, Joan begins to see there is love and life and joy beyond the rim of the cone—and sometimes popcorn inside it too, because, it turns out, the cone makes a great snack bowl.

This picture book is guaranteed to make kids and caregivers laugh, and see the trials of life—and dogs in cones—in a whole new way.

“Dynamic, expressive, and funny.” —Kirkus
“A perfect read-aloud for children, especially [to teach] resilience and acceptance.” —SLJ
Bound to become a family favorite. —Cracking the Cover

View Details >>

In a Dark, Dark Room and Other Scary Stories

Alvin Schwartz

In a dark, dark room, in a soft, soft voice, tell a scary story!

Newly reillustrated, this classic I Can Read full of spooky stories is perfect for beginning readers who love a bit of a scare.

Victor Rivas’s silly and spooky art will introduce a new generation to stories inspired by traditional folktales like “The Teeth,” “In the Graveyard,” “The Green Ribbon,” “In A Dark, Dark Room,” “The Night It Rained,” “The Pirate,” and “The Ghost of John.”

The original edition has won many state awards and is an ALA Notable Children’s Book.

In a Dark, Dark Room is a Level Two I Can Read book, geared for kids who read on their own but still need a little help.

View Details >>

Fox & Chick: The Party

Sergio Ruzzier

A 2019 Theodore Seuss Geisel Award Honoree

NPR Best Books of the Year, New York Times Notable Children's Book, Boston Globe Best Book of the Year 

Join the dynamic, yet opposite duo as they learn to appreciate differences among friends: Fox and Chick don't always agree, but Fox and Chick are always friends. With sly humor and companionable warmth, Sergio Ruzzier deftly captures the adventures of these seemingly opposite friends. With spare text and airy images, this early chapter book is also accessible to a picture book audience.

• Book teaches a lesson about accepting and cherishing our differences through sweet and funny characters as they embark on silly adventures
• Luminous watercolor images showcased in comic-book panel form will entice emerging readers, keeping them engaged and wanting more
• Sergio Ruzzier is a Sendak Fellow whose work has been lauded by the Society of Illustrators, Communication Arts, and the Society of Publication Designers

"A subtle lesson, couched in humor: We can be friends with people who aren't just like us." The New York Times

• Great family and classroom read-aloud book
• Books for kids ages 5-8 
• Books for early and emergent readers

View Details >>

Baloney and Friends

Greg Pizzoli

Meet Baloney! This book is about him. And also Peanut the horse, his best friend. There's Bizz the bumblebee, too, of course. And Krabbit. He'd rather not be here, but what can you do?
In this graphic novel for young readers, watch our pig protagonist perform some questionable magic, cheer him on as he braves the swimming pool, and root for Baloney and his friends when a case of the blues gets him down.
Brought to you by Geisel Medalist Greg Pizzoli, these delightful tales will get kids giggling in no time!

View Details >>

Killer Whale Vs. Great White Shark

Jerry Pallotta

What would happen if a great white shark and a killer whale met each other? What if they had a fight? Who do you think would win?

 

This nonfiction reader compares and contrasts two ferocious underwater creatures. Kids learn about the killer whale and the great white shark's anatomies, behaviors, and more. This book is packed with photos, charts, illustrations, and amazing facts.

View Details >>

Little Bear

Else Holmelund Minarik

Overview: Enter the world of Little Bear. Children will be entranced by Little Bear's trip to the moon, his birthday party, and his wishes and adventures. This is the first of the five classic books about Little Bear, introducing the funny and strikingly childlike bear cub and his friends. The combination of Else Holmelund Minarik's simple, yet eloquent, stories and Maurice Sendak's warm, tender illustrations have made this beloved character an enduring favorite among beginning readers.

View Details >>

Stink and the Great Guinea Pig Express

Megan McDonald

"Fans of Judy Moody and her brother, Stink, will find everything they love here – friendships, riddles, adventure, and animals." – Kirkus Reviews

When three guinea pigs from the local pet shop make a great escape, Stink Moody and his friends Webster and Sophie spring into action. Ta-da! The Fantastic Fur Friends round up the little hairballs and bring them safely back to Mrs. Birdwistle’s shop, where they discover — oohla- la! — guinea pig pandemonium! Time for the Great Guinea Pig Giveaway! Stink and company hit the road aboard the Squeals on Wheels Express in a crazy quest to fi nd good homes for 101 squealing, whistling, chirping, wiggly piggies. FUR-eaky!

View Details >>

Alvin Ho

Lenore Look

Here's the third hilarious chapter book in the series about Alvin Ho, a boy who's afraid ofeverything.For example, what could possibly be so scary about a birthday party? Let Alvin explain:
You might be dressed for bowling . . . but everyone else is dressed for swimming.
You could get mistaken for the piñata.
You could eat too much cake.
You could throw up.
So when Alvin receives an invitation to a party—agirl'sparty—how will he ever survive?

Lenore Look's touching, drop-dead-funny book about an Asian American second grader—with pictures byNew York Timesbestselling illustrator LeUyen Pham—has tons of boy appeal and is great for reluctant readers. The previous books in the series,Alvin Ho: Allergic to Girls, School, and Other Scary ThingsandAlvin Ho: Allergic to Camping, Hiking, and Other Natural Disasters,have received rave reviews. “Alvin's a winner,” declares theNew York Post,andNewsdaysays, “The novel . . . shares withDiary of a Wimpy Kidthe humor that stems from the hero's Herculean efforts to manipulate the world around him in his favor, without all the facts at his disposal.” Perfect for beginning and reluctant readers alike,Alvin Hoperfectly captures the trials and tribulations of boyhood.

View Details >>

Snail & Worm, Again

Tina Kügler

Geisel Honor Winner!

In this silly sequel to Snail and Worm, the dynamic duo are back for more fun and giggles in three new comic shorts brimming with quirky humor and unflappable friendship. At turns clever and sweet, these laugh-out-loud stories are perfect for readers coming out of their own shells and making the transition between picture books and chapter books.

As Publishers Weekly commented on the first book in this series: "Snail and Worm's direct, simplified dialogue is perfect for beginning readers, and their unabashed dopiness--equally evident in their conversations and in Kügler's mixed-media cartoons--delivers a steady stream of laughs."

Like such popular pairs as Stick and Stone, Narwhal and Jelly, Frog and Toad, and George and Martha, Snail and Worm friendship stories are perfect for early readers.

View Details >>

The Best Teacher in Second Grade

Katharine Kenah

This heartfelt story shows the difference a good teacher can make in a student's life!

Luna has the best teacher in second grade. Mr. Hopper loves the midnight sky almost as much as Luna does, but the rest of the class isn't on the same page. They won't listen to her ideas for the Family Night program--until something goes unexpectedly wrong! With a nudge from Mr. Hopper, Luna shares her plan, which just might save the show.

From the team that wrote and illustrated The Best Seat in Second Grade and The Best Chef in Second Grade, this appealing story will appeal to all second graders, as well as their parents, caregivers, and, especially, teachers!

This Level Two I Can Read is geared toward kids who read on their own but still need a little help. Whether shared at home or in a classroom, the engaging stories, longer sentences, and language play of Level Two books are proven to help kids take their next steps toward reading success.

View Details >>

Flat Stanley and the Lost Treasure

Lori Haskins Houran

Stanley goes on a snorkeling adventure and makes a dazzling discovery. Aligned to Common Core Standards and correlated to state standards. Leveled Readers is an imprint of Spotlight, a division of ABDO.

View Details >>

My Weird School Daze #2: Mr. Sunny Is Funny!

Dan Gutman

With more than 30 million books sold, the My Weird School series really gets kids reading!

In the second book in My Weird School Daze—the hilarious second arc of the My Weird School series—A.J. is taking a much-needed summer vacation with his family. But all bets are off when Andrea and her family rent the beach house next door. Not even the funny beach lifeguard Mr. Sunny can save them from this weird summer!

Perfect for reluctant readers and word lovers alike, Dan Gutman's insanely popular My Weird School series has something for everyone. Don't miss the hilarious adventures of A.J. and the gang.

 

View Details >>

Ava Lin, Best Friend!

Vicky Fang

Brand-new first grader Ava Lin is determined to find a best friend--even if she's a bit unclear on how to go about it--in this launch of a funny, super relatable chapter-book series.

Ava Lin is six and a half years old, and she loves bubble tea, finding treasures, and animals (note the 117 varieties of pets on her wish list). She's very good at drawing and balancing pasta on her nose. And there's a Very Exciting Thing happening in her life right now: tomorrow is her first day of first grade! Which means she gets a new backpack, new pencils, and a new lunch box. But what she really wants to get in first grade is a best friend, which isn't as easy as she thought.

Ava's quest has her navigating some confusing social rules, with unintentionally comical results--but she always manages to wriggle out of her mishaps in ways young readers will find very familiar. With an engaging text, humorous graphic panels, and black-and-white illustrations, Vicky Fang draws on her Chinese American family's experience to create a heroine kids will instantly love.

View Details >>

Bo and the Witch

Rebecca Elliott

Bo and the unicorns meet a magical witch who needs help in this early chapter book from the New York Times bestselling author of Owl Diaries!

 

Pick a book. Grow a Reader!

This series is part of Scholastic's early chapter book line, Branches, aimed at newly independent readers. With easy-to-read text, high-interest content, fast-paced plots, and illustrations on every page, these books will boost reading confidence and stamina. Branches books help readers grow!

In this tenth book in the USA Today bestselling Unicorn Diaries series, Unicorn Bo and friends can't wait to spot a witch! Witches live high above the clouds and are rarely seen flying in the sky. But on one fateful day, a young witch named Charm crash lands in Sparklegrove Forest! The unicorns are super excited to meet a witch for the first time. But when they realize the witch is in trouble, will the unicorns be able to help Charm find her way back home? With full-color artwork throughout and plenty of smiles, your young reader won't be able to put this book down!

 

View Details >>

Hotdog! #1

Anh Do

Meet Hotdog, the wiener dog, and his friends! In this colorful illustrated chapter book series, Anh Do introduces us to a small hero with a big heart.

 

Hotdog and his friends are going on a mad adventure to help a baby bird find his missing mom! They'll climb to crazy heights to find her! But can they handle dirty diapers and karate-chopping roosters along the way?

View Details >>

Dirk Bones and the Mystery of the Missing Books

Doug Cushman

In the town of Ghostly, where everything is spooky, something really strange is going on: Books are disappearing! And not just any books—only those written by the famous author Edgar Bleek.

Luckily ace reporter Dirk Bones is on the case. As Dirk tracks down information about the only clue—a weird spotted leaf—the mystery gets even more bizarre. What is happening in Ghostly?

Expect the unexpected in this second Dirk Bones mystery about a fearless reporter in a town full of silly, creepy creatures.

View Details >>

Cornbread & Poppy at the Museum

Matthew Cordell

PRAISE FOR CORNBREAD & POPPY (Book 1):



An IndieBound Bestseller * An Amazon Best Book of the Year * A 2022 Kirkus Best Children's Book



★ "A rewarding choice for young readers."--Booklist, starred review



★"Cornbread and Poppy are endearing characters, poised to join the ranks of other memorable early reader sets of best friends old and new, including James Marshall's George and Martha."--Bookpage, starred review



★ "Delightful." -- Kirkus, starred review



This third book in Caldecott medalist Matthew Cordell's bestselling early reader series tells a story of precious artifacts and priceless friendships.



Cornbread LOVES spending time inside. Poppy does not. Cornbread ADORES in-depth research. Poppy does not. Cornbread is THRILLED to visit The Moonville Museum. Poppy...is not. But Cornbread and Poppy are the best of friends, so when Cornbread is invited to attend the Founders Gala to see the unveiling of a surprise new exhibit, Poppy agrees to be his guest. Their evening is full of spectacular treasures, including hand-carved hairbrushes, diamond-encrusted perfume sprayers, and a solid gold ice cream scoop. What other wonders will these mice discover? 



Celebrating both partnership and the value of what makes us individuals, young readers will find this classic odd couple irresistible as they encounter relatable issues with humor and heart. 



Publishing simultaneously in hardcover and paperback.



Don't miss the other books in the series:

Cornbread & Poppy

Cornbread & Poppy at the Carnival



PRAISE FOR CORNBREAD & POPPY AT THE MUSEUM:

"No need to visit a museum to find an exhibit of best friendship; see it on display right here."--Kirkus

"A twee answer to "Frog and Toad" that will serve readers of early chapter books."--School Library Journal

"Every scene comes to life in [Cordell's] expressive pen-and-ink drawings."--Booklist

View Details >>

Shark Princess

Nidhi Chanani

A new early reader graphic novel series from the critically acclaimed creator of Pashmina, perfect for fans of Narwhal and Jelly.

Meet Kitana—a Shark Princess and the first of her kind. Her allergy-ridden, best friend, Mack, wants to be one too, but he worries that his sharp teeth and big sneezes make him too dangerous to be a princess.

With Kitana's help, Mack realizes his unique shine. When Mack puts on his crown for the first time, these Shark Princesses are ready to explore the ocean and embark on a fintastic adventure!

Nidhi Chanani's signature artwork brings this underwater series to life in a spunky tale about friendship and redefining who and what a princess can be.

View Details >>

Dear Beast

Dori Hillestad Butler

A jealous cat really, really, REALLY wants to drive away his young owner's new dog in this playful illustrated chapter book from a two-time Geisel Honor winner.

Simon has taken care of his owner, Andy, for many years. He's a good cat. Clean, responsible, and loyal. What more could a boy want? Even when Andy's dad moves out, Simon is certain that Andy doesn't need another pet. So why would Andy's dad adopt a DOG?! To make matters worse, the animal is a rude, rowdy troublemaker. 

Simon's job is clear: the beast has got to go. He decides to write him a letter. Strongly worded, of course. But when the dog's response sets off an unexpected correspondence, Simon realizes the beast may be here to stay. Can he make room for another pet in Andy's life? 

This funny and heartwarming collaboration between Geisel Honor and Edgar Award-winning author Dori Hillestad Butler and bestselling illustrator Kevan Atteberry is a tribute to the love of a good pet - and the joy found in new friendship. With nine chapters and adorable full-color illustrations on every spread, the series is a fun read for parents to share with kids.

A Junior Library Guild Selection

View Details >>

Beneath the Bed and Other Scary Stories

Max Brallier

New York Times bestselling author Max Brallier's easy-to-read scary stories are perfect for beginning readers!

 

Pick a book. Grow a Reader!

 

This series is part of Scholastic's early reader line, Acorn, aimed at children who are learning to read. With easy-to-read text, a short-story format, and full-color artwork on every spread, these books will boost reading confidence and fluency. Acorn books plant a love of reading and help readers grow!

 

What is hiding under the bed? What is scratching at the window? Find out in New York Times bestselling author Max Brallier's scary stories collection. These five spine-chilling stories will have beginning readers everywhere begging to stay up late to read (with the light on!). With authentically scary, easy-to-read text and creepy, full-color artwork throughout, this book is perfect for young children who crave lite scares. This is also THE book to share at sleepovers or around a campfire. It will send SHIVERS down your spine!

View Details >>

Pass the Ball, Mo!

David A. Adler

The third installment in this adorable Level 2 Geisel Award-winning series from a classroom favorite!

Mo's latest obsession is basketball. He's determined to learn how to pass, but as the shortest member of the team, he can't seem to launch the ball high enough. Can Mo learn to pass in time to help his team win the big game? This Level 2 reader about a little African-American boy with a big passion for sports is a funny, motivational companion to the winner of the 2016 Theodor Seuss Geisel Award.

Praise for Pass the Ball, Mo!:
"...welcome addition to the easy reader shelves." --The Horn Book

View Details >>

I Really Want to Be First!

Harriet Ziefert

Meet Really Bird, a small bird who lives in a large city park with his friends Cat, Pup, Mouse, and Rabbit. In each story, Really Bird finds himself really wanting something - to be bigger, to have his fair share, or to be the leader - to be really silly, funny, strong, cool, happy, or brave. And when he feels something, he really feels it.

Each story is an entertaining, character-driven caper based on relatable social/emotional themes, delivered with surprise twists, high drama, and expert comic timing. Along the way, lessons are learned about qualities such as teamwork and compassion. The emphasis is on character growth and development through creative problem-solving. Friendship and emotional engagement are at the heart of every story.

In I Really Want to Be First!, Really Bird is usually in line behind his two best friends, Cat and Pup. He wants to be first for a change, so he thinks up a scheme to become the leader of the group. Along the way, Really Bird discovers that being the leader involves more than being first.

View Details >>

My Kite is Stuck! and Other Stories

Salina Yoon

Salina Yoon continues her Geisel Honor-winning early reader series starring Big Duck, Little Duck, and Porcupine, perfect for fans of bestselling series like Elephant & Piggie, Ballet Cat, and Pig in a Wig.

Loud and in-charge Big Duck, quiet and clever Little Duck, and friendly and gentle Porcupine return in another delightful trio of stories. First, Big Duck and Porcupine are so busy building her lemonade stand that they forget one very important ingredient. Next, when Porcupine and Little Duck make a new friend Big Duck feels left out. Can they find a way to include everyone? And lastly, after Big Duck gets her kite stuck in a tree, Little Duck's smart suggestion will save the day! These three friends may be different, but they always find a way to have lots of fun.

Don't miss these other stories by Salina Yoon!

Duck, Duck, Porcupine series
Duck, Duck, Porcupine
My Kite Is Stuck! And Other Stories
That's My Book! And Other Stories

The Penguin series
Penguin and Pinecone
Penguin in Love
Penguin's Big Adventure
Penguin on Vacation
Penguin and Pumpkin
Penguin's Christmas Wish

The Bear and Floppy books
Found
Stormy Night
Bear's Big Day

View Details >>

Worm and Caterpillar Are Friends

Kaz Windness

A Theodor Seuss Geisel Honor Book
A Kirkus Reviews Best Graphic Novel & Comic
A New York Public Library Best Book
A Chicago Public Library Best of the Best Book

This heartwarming and affirming Level 1 Ready-to-Read Graphics book celebrates the beauty of true friendship!

Worm and Caterpillar are friends—best friends. Worm loves how they are just alike, but Caterpillar has a feeling there is a big change coming. Then Caterpillar disappears for a while and comes back as Butterfly. Will Butterfly and Worm still be friends? 

Ready-to-Read Graphics books give readers the perfect introduction to the graphic novel format with easy-to-follow panels, speech bubbles with accessible vocabulary, and sequential storytelling that is spot-on for beginning readers. There’s even a how-to guide for reading graphic novels at the beginning of each book.

View Details >>

I'm a Frog!

Mo Willems

Gerald is careful. Piggie is not. Piggie cannot help smiling. Gerald can. Gerald worries so that Piggie does not have to. Gerald and Piggie are best friends. In I'm a frog! Piggie has some ribbiting news! Can Gerald make the leap required to accept Piggie's new identity?

View Details >>

Hello, Sun!

Lala Watkins

Inspired by never-before-seen sketches by Dr. Seuss, creator Lala Watkins builds a bright and playful story about a worm in this brand-new beginning reader that is the first in the Seuss Studios line of Beginner Books.

If you could play with the sun, what would you do? Would you sing? Dance? Play hide-and-seek?

Join Norbit the Worm, his friends, and the sun itself as they spend a day doing everything they can think of, from swimming and hiking to blowing bubbles and watching the clouds drift by! By encouraging imaginative play, Hello, Sun! keeps kids entertained as they learn to read.

Seuss Studios is a new line of Beginner Books with original stories and art from emerging authors and illustrators. Every Seuss Studios story was inspired by never-before seen sketches from the Dr. Seuss archives, which you can find in the back of each book! Launched by Dr. Seuss in 1957 with the publication of The Cat in the Hat, Beginner Books make learning to read FUN!

View Details >>

What This Story Needs Is a Pig in a Wig

Emma J. Virjan

What this story needs is a pig in a wig, on a boat in a moat with a frog, a dog, and a goat on a log. . . .

As a panda in a blouse, a skunk on a trunk, and more hop on board, it becomes clear that what this story really needs is a bigger boat! Join Pig on an exciting boat ride as she discovers that life is more fun with friends in this fantastic funny read-aloud with cumulative text from author-illustrator Emma J. Virján.

The "What This Story Needs..." books are bright and lively and inspire giggles. "A story with echoes of Seuss and Willems," School Library Journal said in a starred review of What This Story Needs Is a Hush and a Shush.

View Details >>

My Toothbrush Is Missing

Jan Thomas

Dog's toothbrush is missing. Has anybody seen it? Maybe . . . But what does a toothbrush look like? Donkey wonders. Featuring Jan Thomas's wonderfully wacky humor, rowdy repetitions, and hilarious characters, this book is sure to have young readers laughing out loud!

View Details >>

Fox Versus Fox

Corey R. Tabor

A GEISEL HONOR BOOK

School Library Journal Best Books of 2024

The clever and hilarious star of the Geisel Award winners Fox at Night, Fox the Tiger, and Fox Has a Problem is back in another I Can Read adventure.

There's only one Fox . . . except when there are two!

Will Fox outfox this new fox? Or will he make a new friend?


 

Carefully crafted using basic language, word repetition, sight words, and whimsical illustrations, Fox versus Fox is ideal for sharing with your emergent reader. The active, engaging My First I Can Read stories have appealing plots and lovable characters, encouraging children to continue their reading journey. Other Fox books include Fox Has a Problem, Fox at Night, Fox versus Winter, Fox the Tiger, Fox Is Late, Fox and the Jumping Contest, and Fox and the Bike Ride.

View Details >>

Fox Has a Problem

Corey R. Tabor



 

A Geisel Award winner! In his next I Can Read adventure, Fox--the hilarious trickster character featured in previous Geisel Award winners Fox at Night and Fox the Tiger--learns to solve a problem in an unexpected way.

Fox has a problem: His kite is stuck in a tree! But every clever plan creates even more problems for him--and for all his friends. Can they work together to fix things before it's too late

Carefully crafted using basic language, word repetition, sight words, and whimsical illustrations, Fox Has a Problem is ideal for sharing with your emergent reader. The active, engaging My First I Can Read stories have appealing plots and lovable characters, encouraging children to continue their reading journey. Other Fox books include Fox at Night, Fox versus Winter, Fox the Tiger, Fox Is Late, Fox and the Jumping Contest, and Fox and the Bike Ride.

View Details >>

Charlie & Mouse: Book 1 (Classic Children s Book, Illustrated Books for Children)

Laurel Snyder

Four hilarious children's stories, two inventive brothers, one irresistible and award-winning beginner chapter book. Join Charlie and Mouse as they talk to lumps, take the neighborhood to a party, sell some rocks, and invent the bedtime banana. With imagination and humor, Laurel Snyder and Emily Hughes paint a lively picture of brotherhood that children will relish in a beginning chapter book format; making this a perfect book for young readers graduating from picture books.

View Details >>

Ballet Cat What's Your Favorite Favorite?

Bob Shea

Ballet Cat and her cousin Goat are preparing a show for Grandma. Each is trying to outdo the other--Ballet Cat with an elaborate dance routine (of course), and Goat with his amazing (amazingly lame, that is) magic tricks. Neither act goes off quite as planned, but it doesn't matter . . . because Grandma falls asleep during the performance! Oh well, at least Ballet Cat and Goat learn how to cooperate. (But Ballet Cat cooperates better!)
Praise for THE TOTALLY SECRET SECRET: *"This early reader has simple, vivacious cartoon artwork done in inks with digital enhancements. Shea's signature style and bright bold colors add to the fun. Although the text is somewhat sophisticated and the dialogue is entirely in word balloons, the humor and theme of friendship and sharing will have broad appeal beyond the beginning reader set. VERDICT Move over Elephant and Piggie!" --School Library Journal (starred review) *"Tapping into the same barely restrained exuberance and visual energy that characterizes much of his previous work, Shea introduces Ballet Cat, a pearl-and-tutu-wearing feline who loves to dance as much as the author's Dinosaur and Cheetah characters love winning. Like Mo Willems's Elephant and Piggie, these two are a contemporary comic duo with staying power; Shea mines Ballet Cat's dialed-up enthusiasm and Sparkle's hangdog expressions for everything they are worth. Boldly contrasting backgrounds heighten the strong emotions at play and, luckily, after Sparkles reveals his 'secret secret' about dancing, this friendship is undiminished." --Publishers Weekly (starred review)
An ALA Notable Book
 

View Details >>

Green Eggs and Ham

Dr. Seuss

NATIONAL BESTSELLER • Join in the fun with Sam-I-Am in this iconic Dr. Seuss classic about the joy of trying new things. And don’t miss the Netflix series adaptation!

One of The Atlantic’s 65 Essential Children’s Books

I do not like
green eggs and ham.
I do not like them,
Sam-I-am.

With unforgettable characters and signature rhymes, Dr. Seuss’s beloved favorite has cemented its place as a children’s classic. Kids will love the terrific tongue twisters as the list of places to enjoy green eggs and ham gets longer and longer...and they might even find themselves craving something new!

Beginner Books are fun, funny, and easy to read! Launched by Dr. Seuss in 1957 with the publication of The Cat in the Hat, this beloved early reader series motivates children to read on their own by using simple words with illustrations that give clues to their meaning. Featuring a combination of kid appeal, supportive vocabulary, and bright, cheerful art, Beginner Books will encourage a love of reading in children ages 3–7.

View Details >>

Puppy Mudge Loves His Blanket

Cynthia Rylant

Welcome Mudge! 
Mudge is Henry's puppy, a puppy who loves his blanket. Mudge brings his blanket everywhere. 
But when the blanket gets lost, it's up to Henry to find it...or Mudge might never go to sleep!

View Details >>

See Bip Grow!

David Milgrim

Zip and Bip are back in the fourth book in the Adventures of Zip Ready-to-Go! series from author-illustrator David Milgrim, two-time Theodor Seuss Geisel Honoree!

See Zip zap. See Bip grow tall. Now Zip and Bip can play some ball! But as usual, things don’t go according to plan for the hapless magician, Zip. See Bip grow so big that he flies away like a giant balloon! What will Zip (and Bip) do?

Perfect for kids at the beginning of their reading journeys, See Bip Grow! was written for children who have learned the alphabet and are ready to start reading! And what better way to get kids excited than with a hilarious, out-of-this world story with words they can actually read?

Each Ready-to-Go! Ready-to-Read includes a note to parents explaining what their child can expect, a guide at the beginning for readers to become familiar with the words they will encounter in the story, and reading comprehension questions at the end. Each Ready-to-Go! story contains about 100 words and features sight words, rhyming words, and repetition to help children reinforce their new reading skills. In this book, readers will learn 29 sight words and 16 words from 5 word families. So come on and get reading with Zip!

View Details >>

Hot Cat, Cool Cat

Laura Manaresi

Kit likes to run. Kip likes to sit. Can they be friends? This level G book is perfect for new readers.

Kit likes to hug. Hugs scare Kip. Kit likes cake. Kip likes fish.

Kit and Kip are total opposites but also best friends! Kit likes swimming, while Kip is happy to sit on the hill. One day when brave Kit is swimming and gets a cramp, careful Kip must jump into action to save her best friend! With expressive, colorful characters and illustrations packed with silly shenanigans and actions, young readers will love Kit and Kip. Perfect for kindergarteners and first graders to read on their own. 

This book has been officially leveled by using the Fountas & Pinnell Text Level GradientTM leveling system.

For early-to-mid first grade readers, Level G books feature more complex storylines than prior levels, and a wider variety of structure and punctuation. Illustrations offer support for decoding the more challenging vocabulary words introduced. 

The award-winning I Like to Read © series focuses on guided reading levels A through G, based upon Fountas and Pinnell standards. Acclaimed author-illustrators--including winners of Caldecott, Theodor Seuss Geisel, and Coretta Scott King honors--create original, high quality illustrations that support comprehension of simple text and are fun for kids to read with parents, teachers, or on their own!

View Details >>

Horse & Buggy on Wheels!

Ethan Long

Best friends Horse & Buggy’s skateboarding shenanigans will have early readers rolling with laughter in this story from Geisel medalist Ethan Long!

“Look, Buggy! I have a skateboard.”

“Do you have a helmet, too?”

Horse is ready to try some BIG skateboard tricks . . . and his best friend Buggy has some tricks of his own on how Horse can avoid getting hurt. From tightening helmet straps to bandaging bruised butts, there’s no such thing as too much fun with this dynamic duo—especially because they’re playing it safe.

Ethan Long’s expressive, slapstick-style art brings the laugh-out-loud story to life in this early reader that really sticks the landing.

Don't miss this hilarious duo's other adventures in Dance, Dance, Dance!, Horse & Buggy Paint It Out!, Horse & Buggy Plant a Seed, and Horse & Buggy on Ice.

This book has been officially leveled by using the F&P Text Level Gradient(TM) Leveling System at level E.

The award-winning I Like to Read® series focuses on guided reading levels A through G, based upon Fountas and Pinnell standards.

Acclaimed author-illustrators--including winners of Caldecott, Theodor Seuss Geisel, and Coretta Scott King honors--create original, high quality illustrations that support comprehension of simple text and are fun for kids to read with parents, teachers, or on their own.

A Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection

View Details >>

See the Ghost

David LaRochelle

The Geisel Award-winning creators of See the Cat and See the Dog return for a comical new spoof on primers--and this time the cat, the dog, and the book are grappling with some curious things they can't see. 

See the wind blow the leaves.
See the wind blow the leaves off the page.
See the wind blow the dog off the page.

It's not easy to enjoy a picnic when you have unseeable interlopers to contend with! In a new trio of stories for beginning readers, the affable Max the dog and mischievous Baby Cakes the cat encounter a scare-happy ghost who has a run-in with a mirror, the wind at its blustery best, and a teeny-tiny fairy with a wayward wand who may have met her match. With playfully meta flair, author David LaRochelle and illustrator Mike Wohnoutka bring back their lovable characters for an amusing foray into things that go "Boo!," "Whoosh!," and "Hey! . . . Will you let me back into the book?"

View Details >>

We Are Growing!

Mo Willems

Walt and his friends are growing up fast! Everyone is the something-est. But . . . what about Walt? He is not the tallest, or the curliest, or the silliest. He is not the anything-est! As a BIG surprise inches closer, Walt discovers something special of his own!

View Details >>

Rocket Loves Hide-and-Seek!

Tad Hills

Kids are learning to read with Rocket! Rocket, the star of Tad Hills's New York Times bestselling picture books, returns in an all-new, easy-to-read book about a game of hide and seek that he just can't seem to win.

Don’t miss the animated movie based on the bestselling Rocket books--now airing on PBS!

Rocket, Bella, and Owl are playing hide and seek! Game after game, Rocket gets found first, which makes for hurt feelings. Seeing as their friend is down, Bella and Owl come up with a plan to make the game fun again! With its simple words, lots of repetition, and bright, colorful illustrations, young readers will love this Rocket book about solving problems, which they can ready all by themselves!

Discover more easy-to-read fun with Rocket and the Perfect Pumpkin!

View Details >>

Penny and Her Doll

Kevin Henkes

When Penny receives a surprise box in the mail from Gram, she is thrilled. The surprise is a doll, and she is absolutely perfect, from her head to her toes. Penny loves her immediately. She introduces her new doll to Mama and to the babies and to Papa. But then Papa asks what the doll's name is, and Penny realizes that she doesn't know.

What do you think will happen?

View Details >>

I Am Curious!

Kelly Greenawalt

Princess Truly is curious to learn about the world around her, in these rhyming stories perfect for beginning readers!

 

Pick a book. Grow a Reader!

This series is part of Scholastic's early reader line, Acorn, aimed at children who are learning to read. With easy-to-read text, a short-story format, plenty of humor, and full-color artwork on every page, these books will boost reading confidence and fluency. Acorn books plant a love of reading and help readers grow!

Princess Truly is very curious! In these three rhyming stories, Princess Truly visits a museum and learns about dinosaurs and butterflies, she solves a mystery when her snack goes missing, and she takes a trip to outer space in a rocket ship with her pug, Sir Noodles.

These funny and empowering short stories promote believing in yourself, building confidence, and having a positive self-image. Perfect for the fans of Ada Twist, this series fosters imagination and curiosity. With full-color artwork and easy-to-read rhyming text throughout, Princess Truly is just-right for new readers!

 

View Details >>

Frog Can Hop

Laura Gehl

From Laura Gehl, author of Dog Can Hide and Cat Sees Snow, comes another side-splitting Ready-to-Go! Ready-to-Read about an energetic frog and unhurried pig.

Frog can hop. Pig likes to flop. When Frog makes a big drop, will Pig help? 

Perfect for kids at the beginning of their reading journeys, Frog Can Hop was written for children who have learned the alphabet and are ready to start reading! And what better way to get kids excited than with a fun story with words they can actually read?

Each Ready-to-Go! Ready-to-Read includes a note to parents explaining what their child can expect, a guide at the beginning for readers to become familiar with the words they will encounter in the story, and reading comprehension questions at the end. Each Ready-to-Go! story contains around 100 words and features sight words, rhyming words, and repetition to help children reinforce their new reading skills. In this book, readers will learn two sight words, and ten words from one word family. So come on and get reading!

View Details >>

I Like Hoops

Juwanda G. Ford

The game is tied. Can we win? This book is perfect for kindergarteners and first graders to read on their own.

A close game of basketball, played by a diverse group of first and second graders, is full of suspense, joy-and good sportsmanship too!

With simple text, kindergarteners and 1st graders can read this story on their own. Rated level I by educational experts and includes phonics features.

The books in the award-winning I Like to Read® series build vocabulary and promote fluency, which are essential for reading success. Acclaimed author-illustrators--including winners of Caldecott, Theodor Seuss Geisel, and Coretta Scott King honors--create original, high-quality books that are fun for kids to read again and again with their parents, teachers or on their own!

A Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection
One of Chicago Public Library's Best of the Best Books

View Details >>

A Pig, a Fox, and a Box

Jonathan Fenske

In the style of Mo Willems, Jonathan Fenske tells three humorous stories of two friends, Pig and Fox, and their shenanigans with a cardboard box (all of which involved Pig accidentally crushing Fox in the box). With comic art and simple language, this Level 2 reader is sure to have kids rolling with laughter.

View Details >>

Duck Stays in the Truck/Ready-to-Read Level 2

Doreen Cronin

From Caldecott Honor–winning and New York Times bestselling duo Doreen Cronin and Betsy Lewin comes an all-new, laugh-out-loud original Level 2 Ready-to-Read about Duck not wanting to join in on camping fun!

Farmer Brown wants to go camping. He packs up the animals. He packs up his brother, Bob. The chickens want to hike. The cows want to fish. The pigs want to picnic. And Duck? Duck just wants to stay in the truck. How will Farmer Brown bring everyone together?

View Details >>

I Hop

Joe Cepeda

This Level C book about a boy and his grandma is perfect for kindergarten readers.

A Theodor Geisel Honor Book!

A boy hops around town on his pogo stick.

I get cheese.
I get bread
I get apples.

Very simple text and fun pictures support comprehension in this delightful book, ideal for new readers just starting out. Easy to read and brightly illustrated, this is a perfect book to read on their own!

I Hop is a companion to Joe Cepeda's other I Like to Read books, including Up (a Guided Reading Level B book) and I See (Guided Reading Level B), featuring the same curious, excited brothers exploring the world around them and celebrating the diversity of everyday life.

An ALSC Notable Children's Book

For readers who've mastered basic sight words, Level C books feature slightly longer sentences and a wider range of high frequency words than Level B books. Level C book are suitable for mid-to-late kindergarten readers. When Level C is mastered, follow up with Level D.

The award-winning I Like to Read © series focuses on guided reading levels A through G, based upon Fountas and Pinnell standards. Acclaimed author-illustrators--including winners of Caldecott, Theodor Seuss Geisel, and Coretta Scott King honors--create original, high quality illustrations that support comprehension of simple text and are fun for kids to read with parents, teachers, or on their own!

View Details >>

Hi, Jack!

Mac Barnett

From New York Times bestselling author Mac Barnett and Geisel Award-winning illustrator Greg Pizzoli, an uproarious early reader series about a mischievous rabbit, a cranky old lady, and a lovable dog.
 
Meet Jack: He lives in a tree house. His interests include snacks, petty theft, and lipstick graffiti. Jack also loves his friends, he just has a funny way of showing it sometimes . . . 
 
A perfect read-aloud with snappy, rhythmic text, this series will bridge the gap between picture books and chapter books and fill the Elephant-and-Piggie-shaped hole in young readers' hearts.

View Details >>

Henry, Like Always

Jenn Bailey

A Schneider Family Book Award Winner 

A Theodor Seuss Geisel Honor Book 

A NPR 2023 Books We Love Pick

A School Library Journal Best Book of 2023 

A 2023 Chicago Public Library Best of the Best Book 



A beginning chapter book series based on the award-winning picture book, A Friend for Henry!



Henry likes Classroom Ten. He likes how it is always the same. But this week, Henry's class will have a parade, and a parade means having Share Time on the wrong day. A parade means playing instruments that are too loud. A parade means this week is not like always.



Join Henry as he navigates the ups and downs of marker missiles, stomach volcanoes, and days that feel a little too orange. From the creators of the Schneider Family Honor-winning picture book A Friend for Henry, this warmly funny book starring a child on the autism spectrum is a reassuring read for school-bound kids of all stripes.







GREAT FOR BEGINNING READERS: With short chapters and simple text, this book is perfect for newly independent readers who are just moving into longer books.



BACK TO SCHOOL: Familiar school scenarios--from new schedules to making new friends--are portrayed with humor and understanding in this series that will appeal to and reassure any child starting or continuing in school.



DIVERSE STORIES: Representing neurodivergent kids is a vital aspect of expanding diverse representation across books for all ages. Henry, Like Always provides a mirror and a window for kids on the autism spectrum and their friends to see themselves in the stories they read.



AN AWARD-WINNING TEAM: Jenn Bailey and Mika Song were awarded a Schneider Family Honor Award for their picture book A Friend for Henry. See how the story continues in this classic-feeling early reader series based on the same character!



Perfect for:

  • Newly independent readers
  • An excellent resource for parents of kids on the spectrum
  • Librarians, teachers, and booksellers looking for a children's book that offers a window into the experience of autism
  • A reassuring read for kids with varying levels of social anxiety
  • Gift-givers looking for a sweet and relatable book about friendship
View Details >>