Staff Picks by Jessica

Jessica Staff Picks

Jessica is a huge fan of fantasy and science-fiction for readers of all ages especially when paired with characters who are people of color. Any adult books she reads tend to be non-fiction or historical fiction. Make sure to check out her audiobook recomendations here!

Newest reviews are at the bottom. 

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All My Rage: A Novel By Sabaa Tahir Cover Image
$19.99
ISBN: 9780593202340
Availability: Available to Order from Our Warehouse
Published: Razorbill - March 1st, 2022

Reading All My Rage will take you gently by the hand, punch you in the gut, tear your heart out, cradle it tenderly then smash it to pieces leaving a violent roiling of emotions in its wake. Sabaa Tahir has carefully strung together words filled with devastating hope and the potential to reach readers through their own rage. 

(Young Adult Fiction, Ages 15+) - Reviewed by Jessica


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Kitty By Rebecca Jordan-Glum, Rebecca Jordan-Glum (Illustrator) Cover Image
$18.99
ISBN: 9781250768049
Availability: Recently On Our Shelves
Published: Roaring Brook Press - April 12th, 2022

A case of mistaken identity allows "Kitty" to walk into a new house and receive the star treatment of food, a bath, and more! A delightful  story filled with illustrations to engage young readers for story time.

(Picture Book, ages 4+) - Reviewed by Jessica


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Sir Ladybug By Corey R. Tabor, Corey R. Tabor (Illustrator) Cover Image
By Corey R. Tabor, Corey R. Tabor (Illustrator)
$12.99
ISBN: 9780063069060
Availability: Recently On Our Shelves
Published: Balzer + Bray - March 29th, 2022

Sir Ladybug will make you giggle along with the joyful antics of friends. This is the perfect young graphic novel for fans of Narwhal and Jelly! 

(Graphic Novel, ages 6+) - Reviewed by Jessica


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Falling Short By Ernesto Cisneros Cover Image
$16.99
ISBN: 9780062881724
Availability: Available to Order from Our Warehouse
Published: Quill Tree Books - March 15th, 2022

Ernesto Cisneros has done it again! This is a fantastic book about friends, family, and finding yourself. 

(Realistic fiction, ages 9+) - Reviwed by Jessica


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Tiny Dino By Deborah Freedman, Deborah Freedman (Illustrator) Cover Image
$17.99
ISBN: 9780593352649
Availability: Available to Order from Our Warehouse
Published: Viking Books for Young Readers - April 19th, 2022

Hummingbird proudly proclaims "I'm a Tiny Dino!". And the lovely truth is revealed when scales and feathers are compared, plus bones, toes, and more. A beautiful and well-crafted combination of story and science with Deborah Freedman's characteristically soft watercolor illustrations lightly inset with facts. 

(Picture Books, ages 5+) - Reviewed by Jessica


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Fevered Star (Between Earth and Sky #2) By Rebecca Roanhorse Cover Image
$27.99
ISBN: 9781534437739
Availability: Available to Order from Our Warehouse
Published: Gallery / Saga Press - April 19th, 2022

A stunning sequel to the dark and complex world introduced in Black Sun. This brings a little more hope on the horizon, in the strange sense of being ok with the world ending. 

(Adult Fantasy) - Reviewed by Jessica


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Redemptor (Raybearer Book 2) By Jordan Ifueko Cover Image
$10.99
ISBN: 9781419739866
Availability: Recently On Our Shelves
Published: Amulet Paperbacks - August 2nd, 2022

Empress Tarisi has a mission and she knows the odds are against her as a Redemptor: running an empire, preparing for a trip to the Underworld, and negotiating justice, all on top of balancing love and duty. But with the help of friends new and old, hope for change is on the horizon. Author, Jordan Ifueko, comes roaring back with a story of heart, courage, and action that will delight fans of Raybearer

(Young Adult Fantasy, ages 12+) - Reviewed by Jessica


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The Girl from the Sea: A Graphic Novel By Molly Knox Ostertag Cover Image
$14.99
ISBN: 9781338540574
Availability: Recently On Our Shelves
Published: Graphix - June 1st, 2021

Molly has swirled together an amazing story of first love, changing friends, and environmental justice with a hint of magic and mystery. Fans of The Magic Fish and Heartstopper will find this a perfect new graphic novel for the teen reader. 

(Young Adult Graphic Novel, ages 12+) - Reviewed by Jessica


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Firekeeper's Daughter By Angeline Boulley Cover Image
$18.99
ISBN: 9781250766564
Availability: Available to Order from Our Warehouse
Published: Henry Holt and Co. (BYR) - March 16th, 2021

A fantastic thriller for teen and adult readers that will keep you at the edge of your seat. The opening scene sets the stage for heartbreak, honesty, and healing. The ending will haunt you. 

Also great at a digital audiobook from Libro.fm

(Young Adult, ages 14+) - Reviewed by Jessica


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She Who Became the Sun (The Radiant Emperor Duology #1) By Shelley Parker-Chan Cover Image
$18.99
ISBN: 9781250621818
Availability: Recently On Our Shelves
Published: Tor Books - June 28th, 2022

Fate and power collide in this epic story of war, legacy, and love. The first pages gripped me by the stomach as I hungered with Zhu, then burrowed into my bones as grudges and prejudices were revealed; finally leaving my heart cracked open between anger and love. Perfect for fans of Song of Achilles and rich historical fantasy. 

(Adult Fantasy) - Reviewed by Jessica


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The Okay Witch and the Hungry Shadow By Emma Steinkellner, Emma Steinkellner (Illustrator) Cover Image
$12.99
ISBN: 9781534431485
Availability: Available to Order from Our Warehouse
Published: Aladdin - July 6th, 2021

Moth may be a witch, but her secret power doesn't prevent her from being bullied at school. When her grandmother witch accidentally reveals a bit of forbidden magic that has the ability to change Moth, the quest to fit in begins. As the changes start to take over Moth, the question becomes where does the real-Moth end and the invading magic begin? 

(Graphic Novel, ages 8+) - Reviewed by Jessica


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Chunky By Yehudi Mercado, Yehudi Mercado (Illustrator) Cover Image
By Yehudi Mercado, Yehudi Mercado (Illustrator)
$12.99
ISBN: 9780062972781
Availability: Recently On Our Shelves
Published: Katherine Tegen Books - June 22nd, 2021

Readers will become a #1 fan of Chunky! Hudi doesn't see anything wrong with himself, but his doctors and parents want him to participate in sports in order to loose weight. With humor and a cheering imaginary mascot, Hudi takes on the challenge from baseball to soccer, swimming and football. With post-game interviews and play-by-play action, this is fun look at real issues involving body image, peer pressure, and being a team player. 

(Graphic Novel, ages 10+) - Reviewed by Jessica


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A Hundred Billion Trillion Stars By Seth Fishman, Isabel Greenberg (Illustrator) Cover Image
By Seth Fishman, Isabel Greenberg (Illustrator)
$8.99
ISBN: 9780062981783
Availability: Recently On Our Shelves
Published: Greenwillow Books - May 19th, 2020

A beautifully illustrated non-fiction book that is perfect for those kids who always ask "why?". A perfect book for teachers but also sweet enough to read every night as a bedtime story. The more often you read it, the better you will be at reading large numbers! Has a wonderfully accessible back matter page. 

(Picture Book, ages 5+) - Reviewed by Jessica


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Dragons and Marshmallows (Zoey and Sassafras #1) By Asia Citro, Marion Lindsay (Illustrator) Cover Image
By Asia Citro, Marion Lindsay (Illustrator)
$6.99
ISBN: 9781943147090
Availability: Recently On Our Shelves
Published: Innovation Press - March 14th, 2017

The scientific process for kids with magical animals! The cover alone is all your young reader needs to see with this adorable new early chapter book series. Zoey with the help of her cat Sassafras and her handy Thinking Goggles uses deduction and the scientific process to find the best way to help the magical creatures that come to their door in need of care and love. Cute black and white illustrations with a helpful glossary in the back for those carefully introduced scientific words like hypothesis. My new go to recomendation!

(Early Chapter Book, ages 6+) - Reviewed by Jessica


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Amina's Voice By Hena Khan Cover Image
$7.99
ISBN: 9781481492072
Availability: Recently On Our Shelves
Published: Salaam Reads / Simon & Schuster Books for You - May 1st, 2018

A perfect book for young girls that are starting middle school. Amina is trying to figure out who she is and what she stands for as she learns about friends, bullying, and what it truly means to stand up for what you believe in. Lovely coming of age story. It also has such a stunning cover. 

(Contemproary Novel, ages 8+) - Reviewed by Jessica


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For Every One By Jason Reynolds Cover Image
$15.99
ISBN: 9781481486248
Availability: Recently On Our Shelves
Published: Atheneum/Caitlyn Dlouhy Books - April 10th, 2018

Honest, down to earth, and powerful in its simplicity. This stunning letter/poem/note to self is something everyone needs to read. Easy to pick up, quick to finish, and sure to make an impression. I read it and immediately wished I had 50 copies so I could hand it out to everyone I know, plus keep one for myself. 

(All ages) - Reviewed by Jessica


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The Rabbit Listened By Cori Doerrfeld, Cori Doerrfeld (Illustrator) Cover Image
By Cori Doerrfeld, Cori Doerrfeld (Illustrator)
$18.99
ISBN: 9780735229358
Availability: Recently On Our Shelves
Published: Dial Books - February 20th, 2018

Children will be drawn in by the easily relatable animal emotions in this simple and sweet story. A great book to use as a teaching opportunity for toddlers and parents alike. 

(Picture Book, ages 3+) - Reviewed by Jessica


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Power Forward (Zayd Saleem, Chasing the Dream #1) By Hena Khan, Sally Wern Comport (Illustrator) Cover Image
By Hena Khan, Sally Wern Comport (Illustrator)
$6.99
ISBN: 9781534411999
Availability: Recently On Our Shelves
Published: Salaam Reads / Simon & Schuster Books for You - May 8th, 2018

Power Forward is the perfect story for young sports fans about balancing the ideal amount of school and play. I especially enjoyed this book because it featured a young Pakistani boy and his family going about their lives as Americans. Filled with sibling banter, school-work, home-cooked meals, and family-drama, this is a book that I would give to a young reader who wants to see themselves in a story as  basketball fan or as a Pakistani-American. 

(Early Chapter Book, ages 7+) - Reviewed by Jessica


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The Prince and the Dressmaker By Jen Wang Cover Image
$17.99
ISBN: 9781626723634
Availability: Available to Order from Our Warehouse
Published: First Second - February 13th, 2018

This book was a fantastic story about two kids discovering who they are and how they want to present themselves to the world. Frances is a daring seamstress who has caught the eye of Lady Crystallia a beautiful fashion trend starter. But the world doesn't know that Lady Crystallia is Prince Sebastian and Frances must decide if she wants the world to know about her work, even as it threatens to expose her friend's secrets to the world. Jen's illustrations captures the emotions of the character's so creatively. I also loved the information in the back of the book about her creative process. 

(Graphic Novel, ages 8+) - Reviewed by Jessica


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Dragons in a Bag By Zetta Elliott, Geneva B (Illustrator) Cover Image
By Zetta Elliott, Geneva B (Illustrator)
$7.99
ISBN: 9781524770488
Availability: Recently On Our Shelves
Published: Yearling - August 13th, 2019

A fast-paced adventure perfect for young fantasy readers who enjoy Magic Tree House and the Zoey and Sassafras series. Zax is not happy to be dropped off at Ma's house while his Mama goes to court. This snappy, white-haired lady turns out to be a witch and asks him for his help returning some baby dragons to the magical world before they cause trouble in Brooklyn. I can't wait to see what else Zax and this cast of characters will get into next!

(Fantasy, ages 7+) - Reviewed by Jessica


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Spinning Silver: A Novel By Naomi Novik Cover Image
$18.00
ISBN: 9780399180996
Availability: Recently On Our Shelves
Published: Del Rey - May 7th, 2019

A masterfully spun tale weaving together multiple voices in a retelling of Rumpelstiltskin that delves into the cost versus value of love, family, and power. Fans of a more nuanced fantasy and Novik's Uprooted will appreciate the amazing character development and detailed world.

(Adult Fantasy) - Reviewed by Jessica


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Front Desk (Front Desk #1) (Scholastic Gold) By Kelly Yang Cover Image
$8.99
ISBN: 9781338157826
Availability: Available to Order from Our Warehouse
Published: Scholastic Press - June 25th, 2019

A well-balanced book that shows one young Chinese girl's experience immigrating with her family to California. At times funny, heart-wrenching, and innovative, this book shows the difficulties of starting over in a new country in a way that a young reader would be able to understand. A great book to open our eyes to the different and sometimes unseen ways people struggle and how we can make the world a better place by being more inclusive and willing to listen to other's stories. 

(Historical Novel, ages 8+) - Reviewed by Jessica


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Saving Winslow By Sharon Creech Cover Image
$6.99
ISBN: 9780062570710
Availability: Recently On Our Shelves
Published: HarperCollins - September 3rd, 2019

Saving Winslow captures an innocence and steadfast belief in miracles that are real and close at hand. Louie is determined to save the sick miniature donkey even though his past animal endeavors haven't turned out well. But he names him Winslow to show that he will survive and with the help of his family and some unexpected sources, maybe miracles can come true. A beautiful book for a family to enjoy together as a read aloud. 

(Contemporary Novel, ages 7+) - Reviewed by Jessica


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Dry By Neal Shusterman, Jarrod Shusterman Cover Image
$12.99
ISBN: 9781481481977
Availability: Available to Order from Our Warehouse
Published: Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers - September 3rd, 2019

Today's fiction, tomorrow's reality. Normal California life turns into a war-zone when the taps are turned off and Alyssa's family is torn apart by thirst as the world dries up around her. A gripping read from start to finish that hits close to home. I read it all in one night. A great book to discuss in a classroom or book club. I have never been more grateful for my water bottle next to me.

(Science Fiction, ages 12+) - Reviewed by Jessica


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There's Something about Sweetie By Sandhya Menon Cover Image
$12.99
ISBN: 9781534416796
Availability: Recently On Our Shelves
Published: Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers - June 23rd, 2020

I am unable to put into words how much I loved this book. Each of Sandhya's pervious books are wonderful (When Dimple Met Rishi and From Twinkle, With Love). I read this book all in one night and was so happy with it that I sat down the next morning to write down my thoughts but I felt so intimidated by how much joy this book brought me. Strange to belive, but I just don't think my words would be able to describe to you the sweet happiness, quiet power, and gentle love in this story. All I can tell you is that this book will leave you grinning from ear-to-ear. 

(Young Adult Romance, ages 12+) - Reviewed by Jessica


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World of Wonders: In Praise of Fireflies, Whale Sharks, and Other Astonishments By Aimee Nezhukumatathil, Fumi Nakamura (Illustrator) Cover Image
$25.00
ISBN: 9781571313652
Availability: Recently On Our Shelves
Published: Milkweed Editions - September 8th, 2020

Aimee didn't know it at the time (or maybe she did in her mystical way) but this book was written for me and all the other brown-skinned, nature-loving, quiet-questers in the world. This BEAUTIFUL package asks the reader to pick-me-up and go for a walk down memory lane where you will find essays on a diversity of flora and fauna from the dragon fruit to the narwhal and the corpse flower to the axolotl; all of which are gorgeously illustrated inside. Her writing asks everyone to find beauty and connection to the wonders that are nature's stories. 

(Essays) - Reviewed by Jessica


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Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You: A Remix of the National Book Award-winning Stamped from the Beginning By Jason Reynolds, Ibram X. Kendi Cover Image
$18.99
ISBN: 9780316453691
Availability: Recently On Our Shelves
Published: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers - March 10th, 2020

Jason Reynolds and Dr. Ibram X Kendi have made the perfect NOT history book for everyone hesitant/curious/eager/desperate to learn what it means to be an anti-racist. There are dates, there are names, there are facts, but mostly there is reflection. Policies, media, moments, are all looked at in a way that traces the lines of thought to action and in-action asking us to laugh, cry, pause, rage, and fight against racist and assimilationist thought. Approachable, engaging, and necessary, this is a book that will make change. 

(Non-Fiction, ages 12+) - Reviewed by Jessica


The Cost of Knowing By Brittney Morris Cover Image
$12.99
ISBN: 9781534445468
Availability: Available to Order from Our Warehouse
Published: Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers - June 21st, 2022

Love, grief, power, and family all come together in The Cost of Knowing as Alex struggles to live his life as a young Black man grieving over the loss of his parents and best friend. His grief must also contend with his anxiety and a mysterious power that allows him to see the future of anything he touches. When learning of an event that he would do anything to prevent, he must come to terms with the origins of his power and the consequences of his actions as a brother, boyfriend, and young Black teenager. Morris is able to dive deep into an emotionally nuanced story layering grief, masculinity, and generational trauma that will leave readers with a powerful message about regret, choice, and knowledge. A book to support with full hearts, unashamed tears, and powerful voices.

(Young Adult Contemporary, ages 14+) - Reviewed by Jessica


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Book Buddies: Ivy Lost and Found By Cynthia Lord, Stephanie Graegin (Illustrator) Cover Image
By Cynthia Lord, Stephanie Graegin (Illustrator)
$12.99
ISBN: 9781536213546
Availability: Available to Order from Our Warehouse
Published: Candlewick - September 28th, 2021

A beautiful start to new friends and a new early chapter book series. In a tale reminiscent of Cordory's adventures, Ivy the doll discovers the magic of making new memories with children and fellow book buddy toys. The story balances a modern family with the classic-feeling black and white illustrations.  

(Early Chpater Book, ages 6+) - Reviewed by Jessica


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Graceling Graphic Novel By Kristin Cashore, Gareth Hinds (Illustrator) Cover Image
By Kristin Cashore, Gareth Hinds (Illustrator)
$17.99
ISBN: 9780358250470
Availability: Recently On Our Shelves
Published: Clarion Books - November 16th, 2021

Hinds' illustrations bring to life the characters that have lived in my heart since the original publication of Cashore's Graceling. I can't wait to share this with long-time fans and new readers!

(Young Adult Graphic Novel, ages 12+) - Reviewed by Jessica


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Vespertine By Margaret Rogerson Cover Image
$18.99
ISBN: 9781534477117
Availability: Available to Order from Our Warehouse
Published: Margaret K. McElderry Books - October 5th, 2021

Gray sisters, silver spirits, and white crows that scream warnings of the dead all come together in this haunting new novel from fantasy favorite Margaret Rogerson. Artemisia is the no-nonsense nun that you want on your side when malicious powers start to corrupt human and spirit alike. Fans of Rogerson's Sorcery of Thorns and Enchantment of Ravens will be thrilled with this new series starter!

(Young Adult Fantasy, ages 14+) - Reviewed by Jessica


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Barakah Beats By Maleeha Siddiqui Cover Image
$7.99
ISBN: 9781338702088
Availability: Available to Order from Our Warehouse
Published: Scholastic Inc. - September 6th, 2022

Get ready for some amazing story beats with this debut middle grade book, Barakah Beats! Perfect for fans of Front Desk and Amina's Voice, Nimra is starting a new school and winds up singing in the popular boy band. But will she be able to tell her new-found friends that sining conflicts with her faith?

I loved this book for the friendship and the honesty around the difficulty fitting in - even when you find your group.

(Contemporary Novel, ages 9+) - Reviewed by Jessica


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Invisible: A Graphic Novel By Christina Diaz Gonzalez, Gabriela Epstein (Illustrator) Cover Image
$12.99
ISBN: 9781338194548
Availability: Recently On Our Shelves
Published: Graphix - August 2nd, 2022

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Seasparrow (Graceling Realm) By Kristin Cashore Cover Image
$21.99
ISBN: 9781984816672
Availability: Recently On Our Shelves
Published: Dutton Books for Young Readers - November 1st, 2022

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The Tryout: A Graphic Novel By Christina Soontornvat, Joanna Cacao (Illustrator) Cover Image
$12.99
ISBN: 9781338741261
Availability: Available to Order from Our Warehouse
Published: Graphix - September 6th, 2022

Frizzy By Claribel A. Ortega, Rose Bousamra (Illustrator) Cover Image
By Claribel A. Ortega, Rose Bousamra (Illustrator)
$12.99
ISBN: 9781250259639
Availability: Recently On Our Shelves
Published: First Second - October 18th, 2022

Freestyle: A Graphic Novel By Gale Galligan Cover Image
$12.99
ISBN: 9781338045802
Availability: Recently On Our Shelves
Published: Graphix - October 18th, 2022

I Was Born for This By Alice Oseman Cover Image
$18.99
ISBN: 9781338830934
Availability: Recently On Our Shelves
Published: Scholastic Press - October 18th, 2022

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Bloomsbury Girls: A Novel By Natalie Jenner Cover Image
$27.99
ISBN: 9781250276698
Availability: Available to Order from Our Warehouse
Published: St. Martin's Press - May 17th, 2022

Wave By Diana Farid, Kris Goto (Illustrator) Cover Image
By Diana Farid, Kris Goto (Illustrator)
$18.99
ISBN: 9781951836580
Availability: Recently On Our Shelves
Published: Cameron Kids - March 29th, 2022

A Lady for a Duke By Alexis Hall Cover Image
$15.99
ISBN: 9781538753750
Availability: Available to Order from Our Warehouse
Published: Forever - May 24th, 2022

Highly Suspicious and Unfairly Cute By Talia Hibbert Cover Image
$13.99
ISBN: 9780593482353
Availability: Available to Order from Our Warehouse
Published: Joy Revolution - January 3rd, 2023

Get ready to laugh with Celine and Bradley! British romance author Talia Hibbert infuses her teen novel with witty banter, camping failures (and triumphs!), and emotional heart. A fun and light read for camping trips or at home stay-cations!

(Young adult romance, ages 12+) - Reviewed by Jessica


Four Eyes: A Graphic Novel (Four Eyes #1) By Rex Ogle, Dave Valeza (Illustrator) Cover Image
By Rex Ogle, Dave Valeza (Illustrator)
$12.99
ISBN: 9781338574968
Availability: Recently On Our Shelves
Published: Graphix - May 2nd, 2023

In middle school, finding friends is like finding glasses - blurry and headache inducing - but worth the effort in the end. Rex's story adds another great contender for realistic graphic novel that kids eat up!

(Graphic novel, ages 9+) - Reviewed by Jessica


Batcat (Batcat Book 1) By Meggie Ramm Cover Image
$13.99
ISBN: 9781419756573
Availability: Recently On Our Shelves
Published: Amulet Books - March 28th, 2023

How to Keep House While Drowning: A Gentle Approach to Cleaning and Organizing By KC Davis, LPC Cover Image
$22.00
ISBN: 9781668002841
Availability: Available to Order from Our Warehouse
Published: S&S/Simon Element - April 26th, 2022

A Taste of Gold and Iron By Alexandra Rowland Cover Image
$19.99
ISBN: 9781250800398
Availability: Available to Order from Our Warehouse
Published: Tordotcom - May 30th, 2023