2024 Beehive Book Awards Nominees
CLAU is thrilled to announce the 2024 Beehive Book Award Nominees!
Many thanks go out to the hardworking committees who prepared these lists.
Download a tri-fold pamphlet.
Many thanks go out to the hardworking committees who prepared these lists.
Download a tri-fold pamphlet.
CHILDREN'S FICTION
The Bluest Sky by Christina Diaz Gonzalez (September 2022)
A boy and his family must decide whether to remain in Cuba under a repressive government or risk everything for the chance of a new beginning.
A Duet for Home by Karina Yan Glaser (April 2022)
As their friendship grows over a shared love of classical music, biracial six-graders June and Tyrell confront a new housing policy that puts homeless families in danger.
Egypt's Fire by Tom Phillips (June 2022)
When a rare ruby goes missing from the New York museum of Natural History, John is accused of the crime until Inspector McGee says otherwise and they team up to solve the mystery.
Long Lost by Jacqueline West (May 2022)
Feeling lonely and out of place after her family moves to a new town, Fiona Crane (11yo) ventures to the local library, where she finds a gripping mystery novel about a small town, family secrets, and a tragic disappearance.
The Lucky Ones by Linda Williams Jackson (April 2022)
In 1967, when his teacher loans him a copy of "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory," Ellis Earl Brown (11yo) is amazed to encounter a family worse off than his own and wonders if happy endings only come in books.
Maizy Chen's Last Chance by Lisa Yee (April 2023)
Maizy Chen (11yo) visits her estranged grandparents, who own and run a Chinese restaurant in Last Chance, Minnesota; as her visit lengthens, she makes unexpected discoveries about her family's history and herself.
Omar Rising by Aisha Saeed (February 2022)
Omar must contend with being treated like a second-class citizen when he gets a scholarship to an elite boarding school.
A Perfect Mistake by Melanie Conklin (July 2022)
Max (11yo) struggles with his ADHD and making mistakes, so when a mistake leaves one friend in a coma and another shutting him out, Max resolves to find out what really happened that night.
Willodeen by Katherine Applegate (September 2021)
When the annual migration of hummingbears, a source of local pride and income, dwindles and no one knows why, Willodeen, armed with a magical birthday gift, speaks up for the animals she loves and vows to uncover this mystery.
Word Travelers and the Taj Mahal Mystery by Raj Haldar (October 2021)
Eddie and MJ are suddenly transported to India where they must use their word knowledge to solve a mystery and help their new friend Dev save his school.
The Bluest Sky by Christina Diaz Gonzalez (September 2022)
A boy and his family must decide whether to remain in Cuba under a repressive government or risk everything for the chance of a new beginning.
A Duet for Home by Karina Yan Glaser (April 2022)
As their friendship grows over a shared love of classical music, biracial six-graders June and Tyrell confront a new housing policy that puts homeless families in danger.
Egypt's Fire by Tom Phillips (June 2022)
When a rare ruby goes missing from the New York museum of Natural History, John is accused of the crime until Inspector McGee says otherwise and they team up to solve the mystery.
Long Lost by Jacqueline West (May 2022)
Feeling lonely and out of place after her family moves to a new town, Fiona Crane (11yo) ventures to the local library, where she finds a gripping mystery novel about a small town, family secrets, and a tragic disappearance.
The Lucky Ones by Linda Williams Jackson (April 2022)
In 1967, when his teacher loans him a copy of "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory," Ellis Earl Brown (11yo) is amazed to encounter a family worse off than his own and wonders if happy endings only come in books.
Maizy Chen's Last Chance by Lisa Yee (April 2023)
Maizy Chen (11yo) visits her estranged grandparents, who own and run a Chinese restaurant in Last Chance, Minnesota; as her visit lengthens, she makes unexpected discoveries about her family's history and herself.
Omar Rising by Aisha Saeed (February 2022)
Omar must contend with being treated like a second-class citizen when he gets a scholarship to an elite boarding school.
A Perfect Mistake by Melanie Conklin (July 2022)
Max (11yo) struggles with his ADHD and making mistakes, so when a mistake leaves one friend in a coma and another shutting him out, Max resolves to find out what really happened that night.
Willodeen by Katherine Applegate (September 2021)
When the annual migration of hummingbears, a source of local pride and income, dwindles and no one knows why, Willodeen, armed with a magical birthday gift, speaks up for the animals she loves and vows to uncover this mystery.
Word Travelers and the Taj Mahal Mystery by Raj Haldar (October 2021)
Eddie and MJ are suddenly transported to India where they must use their word knowledge to solve a mystery and help their new friend Dev save his school.
PICTURE BOOKS
Abdul's Story by Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow and Tiffany Rose (March 2022)
Abdul loves to tell stories. But writing them down is hard. His letters refuse to stay straight and face the right way. And despite all his attempts, his papers often wind up with more eraser smudges than actual words. Abdul decides his stories just aren’t meant to be written down…until a special visitor comes to class and shows Abdul that even the best writers—and superheroes—make mistakes.
Chester Van Chime Who Forgot How to Rhyme by Avery Monsen (March 2022)
Chester van Chime is usually the BEST at rhyming. He can normally tell you all about cats wearing hats and snails delivering mail, but today, something has changed. Today there's no dog on a log. No duck in a truck. Just a Pomeranian on a sideways tree and a waterfowl in a full-size pickup. What's a kid to do?!
Chez Bob by Bob Shea (September 2021)
Welcome to Chez Bob, which seems like a real restaurant...until you realize...it's on an alligator's NOSE! Bob's got a hidden plan for his customers: "Birds will come to eat, but I will eat the birds!" As they fly in from all over the world to dine on Bob's face, something starts to happen that takes the lazy, hungry reptile by surprise -- the birds stay. "More yummy birds!" he rejoices -- he'll want for nothing! But when the time is right, will Bob make the right choice?
Clovis Keeps His Cool by Katelyn Aronson (August 2021)
Clovis used to struggle with his temper, but ever since he took over his late grandmother’s china shop, he’s been learning how to manage it. He pours tea, listens to soothing music, and always keeps Granny’s words in mind: “Grace, grace, nothing broken to replace.” But when rivals from his football days come to heckle him at the shop, Clovis faces a big challenge that even Granny’s words and deep breaths might not be enough for.
Counting to Bananas by Carrie Tillotson (April 2022)
When a narrator starts filling this story with fruit, Banana can’t wait to step into the spotlight. The book is called Counting to Bananas, after all. But as more and more fruits (and non-fruits) are added to the story, Banana objects. When will it be time for bananas?!
Field Trip to Volcano Island by John Hare (February 2022)
A group of students travel to a volcano island on a yellow school bus helicopter. When they get there, one student picks flowers as they hike to the top and then accidentally slips down a crater and can’t get out. The student meets a lava monster and its children who are fascinated by the flowers. But when they touch them, they burn beyond recognition so the student teaches them how to make a vase using lava from a lava pit, fills it with water from a canteen, and they all sit back to enjoy the flower arrangement until help arrives and rescues the student.
Gibberish by Young Vo (March 2022)
It’s Dat’s first day of school in a new country! Dat and his Mah made a long journey to get here, and Dat doesn’t know the language. To Dat, everything everybody says — from the school bus driver to his new classmates — sounds like gibberish. How is Dat going to make new friends if they can’t understand each other? Luckily there’s a friendly girl in Dat’s class who knows that there are other ways to communicate, besides just talking. Could she help make sense of the gibberish?
Have You Seen Gordon? by Adam Jap Epstein and Ruth Chan (September 2021)
A purple tapir named Gordon refuses to remain hidden and decides to stand out.
I'm Not Missing by Kashelle Gourley and Skylar Hogan (May 2022)
Sick of the pressures of pet life-the costumes, the treat-withholding, and the dreaded cone of shame-one dog escapes to fulfill his true Lone Wolf destiny. But then he sees his owner-um, ex-owner-with a new dog and feels unexpectedly jealous. All he wanted was a little space to poop in peace, not for his ex-owner to forget him entirely! Is it too late to go back, or is he stuck in the doghouse forever?
Spoonful of Frogs by Casey Lyall and Vera Brosgol (July 2022)
A witch’s favorite treat is frog soup. Luckily, it’s healthy and easy to make. To give it that extra kick and a pop of color, the key ingredient is a spoonful of frogs. But how do you keep the frogs on the spoon? They hop, they leap, they hide . . . and they escape. What is a poor witch to do?
Abdul's Story by Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow and Tiffany Rose (March 2022)
Abdul loves to tell stories. But writing them down is hard. His letters refuse to stay straight and face the right way. And despite all his attempts, his papers often wind up with more eraser smudges than actual words. Abdul decides his stories just aren’t meant to be written down…until a special visitor comes to class and shows Abdul that even the best writers—and superheroes—make mistakes.
Chester Van Chime Who Forgot How to Rhyme by Avery Monsen (March 2022)
Chester van Chime is usually the BEST at rhyming. He can normally tell you all about cats wearing hats and snails delivering mail, but today, something has changed. Today there's no dog on a log. No duck in a truck. Just a Pomeranian on a sideways tree and a waterfowl in a full-size pickup. What's a kid to do?!
Chez Bob by Bob Shea (September 2021)
Welcome to Chez Bob, which seems like a real restaurant...until you realize...it's on an alligator's NOSE! Bob's got a hidden plan for his customers: "Birds will come to eat, but I will eat the birds!" As they fly in from all over the world to dine on Bob's face, something starts to happen that takes the lazy, hungry reptile by surprise -- the birds stay. "More yummy birds!" he rejoices -- he'll want for nothing! But when the time is right, will Bob make the right choice?
Clovis Keeps His Cool by Katelyn Aronson (August 2021)
Clovis used to struggle with his temper, but ever since he took over his late grandmother’s china shop, he’s been learning how to manage it. He pours tea, listens to soothing music, and always keeps Granny’s words in mind: “Grace, grace, nothing broken to replace.” But when rivals from his football days come to heckle him at the shop, Clovis faces a big challenge that even Granny’s words and deep breaths might not be enough for.
Counting to Bananas by Carrie Tillotson (April 2022)
When a narrator starts filling this story with fruit, Banana can’t wait to step into the spotlight. The book is called Counting to Bananas, after all. But as more and more fruits (and non-fruits) are added to the story, Banana objects. When will it be time for bananas?!
Field Trip to Volcano Island by John Hare (February 2022)
A group of students travel to a volcano island on a yellow school bus helicopter. When they get there, one student picks flowers as they hike to the top and then accidentally slips down a crater and can’t get out. The student meets a lava monster and its children who are fascinated by the flowers. But when they touch them, they burn beyond recognition so the student teaches them how to make a vase using lava from a lava pit, fills it with water from a canteen, and they all sit back to enjoy the flower arrangement until help arrives and rescues the student.
Gibberish by Young Vo (March 2022)
It’s Dat’s first day of school in a new country! Dat and his Mah made a long journey to get here, and Dat doesn’t know the language. To Dat, everything everybody says — from the school bus driver to his new classmates — sounds like gibberish. How is Dat going to make new friends if they can’t understand each other? Luckily there’s a friendly girl in Dat’s class who knows that there are other ways to communicate, besides just talking. Could she help make sense of the gibberish?
Have You Seen Gordon? by Adam Jap Epstein and Ruth Chan (September 2021)
A purple tapir named Gordon refuses to remain hidden and decides to stand out.
I'm Not Missing by Kashelle Gourley and Skylar Hogan (May 2022)
Sick of the pressures of pet life-the costumes, the treat-withholding, and the dreaded cone of shame-one dog escapes to fulfill his true Lone Wolf destiny. But then he sees his owner-um, ex-owner-with a new dog and feels unexpectedly jealous. All he wanted was a little space to poop in peace, not for his ex-owner to forget him entirely! Is it too late to go back, or is he stuck in the doghouse forever?
Spoonful of Frogs by Casey Lyall and Vera Brosgol (July 2022)
A witch’s favorite treat is frog soup. Luckily, it’s healthy and easy to make. To give it that extra kick and a pop of color, the key ingredient is a spoonful of frogs. But how do you keep the frogs on the spoon? They hop, they leap, they hide . . . and they escape. What is a poor witch to do?
INFORMATIONAL BOOKS
Action! How Movies Began by Meghan McCarthy (August 2022)
Movies take us on adventures, introduce us to new worlds, and make us feel, but how did they start? This book tells the story of the evolution of movies and the people who worked hard to create them—both on-screen and behind the scenes. In fascinating detail, she shows how early photography capturing motion became silent films, which led to the first color films and how those building blocks allowed for the inspiring movies of today.
Cougar Crossing: How Hollywood's Celebrity Cougar Helped Build a Bridge for City Wildlife by Meeg Pincus (February 2021)
P-22, the famed “Hollywood Cougar,” was born in a national park near Los Angeles, California. When he was grown he embarked on a perilous journey—somehow crossing sixteen lanes of the world’s worst traffic—to make his home in LA’s Griffith Park. Residents of Los Angeles, along with the scientists monitoring P-22, raised money to build a wildlife bridge across Highway 101 to help cougars and other wildlife safely expand their territories and build new homes—ensuring their survival for years to come.
The Elephants Come Home by Kim Tomsic (May 2021)
One day Lawrence Anthony and Françoise Malby hear that a herd of wild African elephants needs a new home. They welcome the elephants to their wildlife sanctuary—Thula Thula—with open arms. But the elephants are much less sure they want to stay. How will Lawrence prove to them that they are safe and loved? The miraculous story of friendship and love.
Galloping Gertie: the True Story of the Tacoma Narrows Bridge Collapse by Amanda Abler (August 2021)
The story of Galloping Gertie, the first Tacoma Narrows Bridge, is captured through the eyes of a young boy who not only watches the bridge being built, but also witnesses its spectacular collapse not long after the bridge is opened.
The Great Stink: How Joseph Bazalgette Solved London's Poop Pollution Problem by Colleen Paeff (August 2021)
It's the summer of 1858, and London's River Thames STINKS. What is creating this revolting smell? The answer is gross: the river is full of poop. But the smell isn't the worst problem. Every few years, cholera breaks out, and thousands of people die. Could there be a connection between the foul water and the deadly disease? One engineer dreams of making London a cleaner, healthier place. His name is Joseph Bazalgette. His grand plan to create a new sewer system to clean the river is an engineering marvel. And his sewers will save lives. Nothing stinky about that.
Harriet's Ruffled Feathers by Joy McCullough (March 2022)
Harriet Lawrence Hemenway loved hats. She loved them with ribbons and flowers, and feathers! But then Harriet discovered that millions of birds died so that she and her friends could soar at the height of style. A passion for fashion was one thing, but this was feather-brained! So Harriet led the charge to take feathers out of fashion. In 1896, she and her fellow bird protectors founded the Massachusetts Audubon Society, which grew into a national organization that still protects birds today!
Headstrong Hallie! the Story of Hallie Morse Dagget by Aimee Bissonette (February 2021)
Hallie Morse Daggett loved spending time outdoors more than anything, and she wanted to devote her life to protecting her beloved outdoors. But in the 1880s the Forest Service didn't hire women, thinking they couldn't handle the physical challenges of the work or the isolation. But the Forest Service didn't know Hallie or how determined she could be.
I Am Smoke by Henry Herz (September 2021)
Smoke itself acts as narrator, telling the reader how it has served humankind since prehistoric times in a myriad of ways.
It Takes Guts: How Your Body Turns Food into Fuel (and Poop) by Jennifer Gardy (September 2021)
An illustrated book about the digestive system and microbiome. Everybody eats, and everybody poops. Pretty ordinary stuff, right? But what happens in between is far from ordinary! That’s where your digestive system—also known as your gut—works its magic.
What's In Your Pocket by Heather Montgomery (September 2021)
When you find something strange and wonderful, do you put it in your pocket? Meet nine scientists who, as kids, explored the great outdoors and collected "treasures": seedpods, fossils, worms, and more. Observing, sorting, and classifying their finds taught these kids scientific skills--and sometimes led to groundbreaking discoveries.
Action! How Movies Began by Meghan McCarthy (August 2022)
Movies take us on adventures, introduce us to new worlds, and make us feel, but how did they start? This book tells the story of the evolution of movies and the people who worked hard to create them—both on-screen and behind the scenes. In fascinating detail, she shows how early photography capturing motion became silent films, which led to the first color films and how those building blocks allowed for the inspiring movies of today.
Cougar Crossing: How Hollywood's Celebrity Cougar Helped Build a Bridge for City Wildlife by Meeg Pincus (February 2021)
P-22, the famed “Hollywood Cougar,” was born in a national park near Los Angeles, California. When he was grown he embarked on a perilous journey—somehow crossing sixteen lanes of the world’s worst traffic—to make his home in LA’s Griffith Park. Residents of Los Angeles, along with the scientists monitoring P-22, raised money to build a wildlife bridge across Highway 101 to help cougars and other wildlife safely expand their territories and build new homes—ensuring their survival for years to come.
The Elephants Come Home by Kim Tomsic (May 2021)
One day Lawrence Anthony and Françoise Malby hear that a herd of wild African elephants needs a new home. They welcome the elephants to their wildlife sanctuary—Thula Thula—with open arms. But the elephants are much less sure they want to stay. How will Lawrence prove to them that they are safe and loved? The miraculous story of friendship and love.
Galloping Gertie: the True Story of the Tacoma Narrows Bridge Collapse by Amanda Abler (August 2021)
The story of Galloping Gertie, the first Tacoma Narrows Bridge, is captured through the eyes of a young boy who not only watches the bridge being built, but also witnesses its spectacular collapse not long after the bridge is opened.
The Great Stink: How Joseph Bazalgette Solved London's Poop Pollution Problem by Colleen Paeff (August 2021)
It's the summer of 1858, and London's River Thames STINKS. What is creating this revolting smell? The answer is gross: the river is full of poop. But the smell isn't the worst problem. Every few years, cholera breaks out, and thousands of people die. Could there be a connection between the foul water and the deadly disease? One engineer dreams of making London a cleaner, healthier place. His name is Joseph Bazalgette. His grand plan to create a new sewer system to clean the river is an engineering marvel. And his sewers will save lives. Nothing stinky about that.
Harriet's Ruffled Feathers by Joy McCullough (March 2022)
Harriet Lawrence Hemenway loved hats. She loved them with ribbons and flowers, and feathers! But then Harriet discovered that millions of birds died so that she and her friends could soar at the height of style. A passion for fashion was one thing, but this was feather-brained! So Harriet led the charge to take feathers out of fashion. In 1896, she and her fellow bird protectors founded the Massachusetts Audubon Society, which grew into a national organization that still protects birds today!
Headstrong Hallie! the Story of Hallie Morse Dagget by Aimee Bissonette (February 2021)
Hallie Morse Daggett loved spending time outdoors more than anything, and she wanted to devote her life to protecting her beloved outdoors. But in the 1880s the Forest Service didn't hire women, thinking they couldn't handle the physical challenges of the work or the isolation. But the Forest Service didn't know Hallie or how determined she could be.
I Am Smoke by Henry Herz (September 2021)
Smoke itself acts as narrator, telling the reader how it has served humankind since prehistoric times in a myriad of ways.
It Takes Guts: How Your Body Turns Food into Fuel (and Poop) by Jennifer Gardy (September 2021)
An illustrated book about the digestive system and microbiome. Everybody eats, and everybody poops. Pretty ordinary stuff, right? But what happens in between is far from ordinary! That’s where your digestive system—also known as your gut—works its magic.
What's In Your Pocket by Heather Montgomery (September 2021)
When you find something strange and wonderful, do you put it in your pocket? Meet nine scientists who, as kids, explored the great outdoors and collected "treasures": seedpods, fossils, worms, and more. Observing, sorting, and classifying their finds taught these kids scientific skills--and sometimes led to groundbreaking discoveries.
YOUNG ADULT
Cameron Battle and the Hidden Kingdoms by Jamar J. Perry (February 2022)
When Cameron and his friends are transported through the pages of an ancestral book to a fabled West African country, they find a kingdom in extreme danger and have to find a way to save it.
Defy the Night by Brigid Kemmerer (September 2021)
The kingdom of Kandala is recovering from a devastating plague but the cure is rare and expensive, so a girl hatches a plan to infiltrate the castle and bring the corrupt system crashing down.
Flirting with Fate by J.C. Cervantes (April 2022)
Ava Grandado's Nana appears as a ghost asking for help so Ava, with the help of her sisters and spiritual guide, Medardus, must befriend the boy who received the blessing the night of the storm.
The Fort by Gordon Korman (June 2022)
After a hurricane hits, five friends who need to stick together set up a hideout in an abandoned bomb shelter and discover that the only way to be true friends is to reveal their secrets and help each other out.
Ghostlight by Kenneth Oppel (September 2022)
Working as a lighthouse tour guide, Gabe tells the story of Rebecca Strand's mysterious death and hauntings, but he doesn't believe in ghosts until he finds himself face to face with Rebecca. The true story of her death is far more terrifying than any ghost tale.
* Hollow Fires by Samira Ahmed (May 2022)
After discovering the body of Jawad Ali (14yo) in Jackson Park, journalism student Safiya Mirza (17yo) begins investigating his murder and ends up confronting white supremacy in her own school.
I Must Betray You by Ruta Sepetys (February 2022)
In a country governed by isolation, fear, and a tyrannical dictator, Cristian Florescu (17yo) is blackmailed by the secret police to become an informer, but he decides to use his position to try to undermine the regime and expose to the world what is happening.
Love Decoded by Jennifer Yen (March 2022)
Gigi (HS Jr) wants to be picked for a contest that could lead to a tech internship, but when her matchmaking app goes viral, Gigi must deal with the consequences of helping her friends find love.
* Me (Moth) by Amber McBride (August 2021)
Moth, who lost her family in an accident, and Sani, who is battling ongoing depression, take a road trip that has them chasing ghosts and searching for ancestors.
Mirror Girls by Kelly McWilliams (March 2023)
Biracial twin sisters -- one who presents as black and the other as white -- are determined to put the ghosts of the past to rest and uncover the truth behind their parents' murders in the Jim Crow South.
* indicates recommended for more mature readers
Cameron Battle and the Hidden Kingdoms by Jamar J. Perry (February 2022)
When Cameron and his friends are transported through the pages of an ancestral book to a fabled West African country, they find a kingdom in extreme danger and have to find a way to save it.
Defy the Night by Brigid Kemmerer (September 2021)
The kingdom of Kandala is recovering from a devastating plague but the cure is rare and expensive, so a girl hatches a plan to infiltrate the castle and bring the corrupt system crashing down.
Flirting with Fate by J.C. Cervantes (April 2022)
Ava Grandado's Nana appears as a ghost asking for help so Ava, with the help of her sisters and spiritual guide, Medardus, must befriend the boy who received the blessing the night of the storm.
The Fort by Gordon Korman (June 2022)
After a hurricane hits, five friends who need to stick together set up a hideout in an abandoned bomb shelter and discover that the only way to be true friends is to reveal their secrets and help each other out.
Ghostlight by Kenneth Oppel (September 2022)
Working as a lighthouse tour guide, Gabe tells the story of Rebecca Strand's mysterious death and hauntings, but he doesn't believe in ghosts until he finds himself face to face with Rebecca. The true story of her death is far more terrifying than any ghost tale.
* Hollow Fires by Samira Ahmed (May 2022)
After discovering the body of Jawad Ali (14yo) in Jackson Park, journalism student Safiya Mirza (17yo) begins investigating his murder and ends up confronting white supremacy in her own school.
I Must Betray You by Ruta Sepetys (February 2022)
In a country governed by isolation, fear, and a tyrannical dictator, Cristian Florescu (17yo) is blackmailed by the secret police to become an informer, but he decides to use his position to try to undermine the regime and expose to the world what is happening.
Love Decoded by Jennifer Yen (March 2022)
Gigi (HS Jr) wants to be picked for a contest that could lead to a tech internship, but when her matchmaking app goes viral, Gigi must deal with the consequences of helping her friends find love.
* Me (Moth) by Amber McBride (August 2021)
Moth, who lost her family in an accident, and Sani, who is battling ongoing depression, take a road trip that has them chasing ghosts and searching for ancestors.
Mirror Girls by Kelly McWilliams (March 2023)
Biracial twin sisters -- one who presents as black and the other as white -- are determined to put the ghosts of the past to rest and uncover the truth behind their parents' murders in the Jim Crow South.
* indicates recommended for more mature readers
GRAPHIC NOVELS: CHILDREN
Garlic and the Vampire by Bree Paulsen (September 2021)
Garlic is happy to just tend her garden, where it’s nice and safe. But when her village of vegetable folk learns that a bloodthirsty vampire has moved into the nearby castle, they all agree that, in spite of her fear and self-doubt, Garlic is the obvious choice to confront him. And with everyone counting on her, Garlic reluctantly agrees to face the mysterious vampire, hoping she has what it takes.
Invisible by Christina Diaz Gonzalez (August 2022)
Can five overlooked kids make one big difference? 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. . . 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.
Lumberjackula by Mat Heagerty (July 2022)
Jack is in a pickle. His lumberjack mom wants him to go to Lumberjack Prep to learn how to chop wood and wear flannel. His vampire dad wants him to go to Vampire School to learn how to turn into a bat and drink blood-orange juice. And Jack has a secret: what he really wants to do is dance.
Sir Ladybug by Corey R. Tabor (March 2022)
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.
The Tryout by Christina Soontornvat (September 2022)
When cheerleading tryouts are announced, Christina and her best friend, Megan, literally jump at the chance to join the squad. As two of the only kids of color in the school, they have always yearned to fit in―and the middle school cheerleaders are popular and accepted by everyone. But will the girls survive the terrifying tryouts, with their whole grade watching? And will their friendship withstand the pressures of competition?
Garlic and the Vampire by Bree Paulsen (September 2021)
Garlic is happy to just tend her garden, where it’s nice and safe. But when her village of vegetable folk learns that a bloodthirsty vampire has moved into the nearby castle, they all agree that, in spite of her fear and self-doubt, Garlic is the obvious choice to confront him. And with everyone counting on her, Garlic reluctantly agrees to face the mysterious vampire, hoping she has what it takes.
Invisible by Christina Diaz Gonzalez (August 2022)
Can five overlooked kids make one big difference? 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. . . 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.
Lumberjackula by Mat Heagerty (July 2022)
Jack is in a pickle. His lumberjack mom wants him to go to Lumberjack Prep to learn how to chop wood and wear flannel. His vampire dad wants him to go to Vampire School to learn how to turn into a bat and drink blood-orange juice. And Jack has a secret: what he really wants to do is dance.
Sir Ladybug by Corey R. Tabor (March 2022)
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.
The Tryout by Christina Soontornvat (September 2022)
When cheerleading tryouts are announced, Christina and her best friend, Megan, literally jump at the chance to join the squad. As two of the only kids of color in the school, they have always yearned to fit in―and the middle school cheerleaders are popular and accepted by everyone. But will the girls survive the terrifying tryouts, with their whole grade watching? And will their friendship withstand the pressures of competition?
GRAPHIC NOVELS: YOUNG ADULT
Huda F Are You? by Huda Fahmy (November 2021)
Huda and her family just moved to Dearborn, Michigan, a small town with a big Muslim population. But Huda doesn't fit in--when everyone is Muslim, there's no Muslim clique like there was in her last town, and Huda's not a sporty hijabi or a fashionista hijabi or a gamer hijabi. She's just Huda, and she's not sure what that means. She tries on all kinds of identities and friends, but nothing fits quite right. Until she realizes she can get back to the basics.
Isla to Island by Alexis Castellanos (March 2022)
Marisol loves her colorful island home. Cuba is vibrant with flowers and food and people…but things are changing. The home Marisol loves is no longer safe—and then it’s no longer her home at all. Her parents are sending her to the United States. Alone. Nothing about Marisol’s new life in cold, gray Brooklyn feels like home—not the language, school, or even her foster parents. But Marisol starts to realize that home isn’t always a place. And finding her way can be as simple as staying true to herself.
Messy Roots: a graphic memoir of a Wuhanese-American by Laura Gao (March 2022)
After spending her early years in Wuhan, China, riding water buffalos and devouring stinky tofu, Laura immigrates to Texas, where her hometown is as foreign as Mars—at least until 2020, when COVID-19 makes Wuhan a household name.
Ride On by Faith Erin Hicks (August 2022)
Victoria has always loved horses. But riding in competitions is high stakes, high stress, and shockingly expensive. And even though Victoria’s best friend Taylor loves competing, Victoria has lost her taste for it. After a heartbreaking fight with Taylor, Victoria needs a new start―at a new stables. A place where she doesn’t have to worry about anything other than riding. No competition, no drama, no friends. Just horses.
Squire by Sara Alfageeh (March 2022)
Aiza has always dreamt of becoming a Knight. It’s the highest military honor in the once-great Bayt-Sajji Empire, and as a member of the subjugated Ornu people, Knighthood is her only path to full citizenship. Ravaged by famine and mounting tensions, Bayt-Sajji finds itself on the brink of war once again, so Aiza can finally enlist in the competitive Squire training program. Aiza will have to choose, once and for all: loyalty to her heart and heritage, or loyalty to the Empire.
* indicates recommended for more mature readers
Huda F Are You? by Huda Fahmy (November 2021)
Huda and her family just moved to Dearborn, Michigan, a small town with a big Muslim population. But Huda doesn't fit in--when everyone is Muslim, there's no Muslim clique like there was in her last town, and Huda's not a sporty hijabi or a fashionista hijabi or a gamer hijabi. She's just Huda, and she's not sure what that means. She tries on all kinds of identities and friends, but nothing fits quite right. Until she realizes she can get back to the basics.
Isla to Island by Alexis Castellanos (March 2022)
Marisol loves her colorful island home. Cuba is vibrant with flowers and food and people…but things are changing. The home Marisol loves is no longer safe—and then it’s no longer her home at all. Her parents are sending her to the United States. Alone. Nothing about Marisol’s new life in cold, gray Brooklyn feels like home—not the language, school, or even her foster parents. But Marisol starts to realize that home isn’t always a place. And finding her way can be as simple as staying true to herself.
Messy Roots: a graphic memoir of a Wuhanese-American by Laura Gao (March 2022)
After spending her early years in Wuhan, China, riding water buffalos and devouring stinky tofu, Laura immigrates to Texas, where her hometown is as foreign as Mars—at least until 2020, when COVID-19 makes Wuhan a household name.
Ride On by Faith Erin Hicks (August 2022)
Victoria has always loved horses. But riding in competitions is high stakes, high stress, and shockingly expensive. And even though Victoria’s best friend Taylor loves competing, Victoria has lost her taste for it. After a heartbreaking fight with Taylor, Victoria needs a new start―at a new stables. A place where she doesn’t have to worry about anything other than riding. No competition, no drama, no friends. Just horses.
Squire by Sara Alfageeh (March 2022)
Aiza has always dreamt of becoming a Knight. It’s the highest military honor in the once-great Bayt-Sajji Empire, and as a member of the subjugated Ornu people, Knighthood is her only path to full citizenship. Ravaged by famine and mounting tensions, Bayt-Sajji finds itself on the brink of war once again, so Aiza can finally enlist in the competitive Squire training program. Aiza will have to choose, once and for all: loyalty to her heart and heritage, or loyalty to the Empire.
* indicates recommended for more mature readers
POETRY
Sakamoto's Swim Club by Julie Abery (May 2021)
The inspirational and little-known story of a dedicated teacher who coached Hawaiian swimmers all the way to the Olympics, beautifully told in simple rhyme.
Smitten with Kittens by Florence Minor (March 2022)
Snuggly, fun, bouncy and playful -- who isn't smitten with kittens? There's so much to love about kittens--from their cute little mews to their unstoppable mischief-making!
Wait and See by Helen Frost (May 2022)
When you are outside, if a small quick movement takes you by surprise, stop and look—move nothing but your eyes. Could it be a praying mantis, trying not to be seen?
Worst-Case Collin by Rebecca Caprara (September 2021)
Collin is always prepared for something to go wrong. Ever since he lost his mom in a car accident, he's been journaling about how to overcome things like avalanches, riptides, or even a bad case of halitosis. Meanwhile, Collin's father grows more distant by the day, and has started hoarding things throughout their house. Determined to hide his home life from his friends, Collin navigates middle school alongside the hilarious and clueless Liam, and Georgia, who Collin may have feelings for. Can Collin learn to be vulnerable around those he loves, even when he can't control every possible scenario?
Zoobilations! Animal Poems and Paintings by Douglas Florian (March 2022)
Discover the poetry of the animal kingdom! Come horse around and live out your ele-phant-asies in this utterly original collection of animal poems. From the s t r e t c h of a giraffe’s neck to the smooth skin of a naked mole rat, readers will see animals in a whole new way—and laugh like hyenas as they turn each pun-filled page.
Sakamoto's Swim Club by Julie Abery (May 2021)
The inspirational and little-known story of a dedicated teacher who coached Hawaiian swimmers all the way to the Olympics, beautifully told in simple rhyme.
Smitten with Kittens by Florence Minor (March 2022)
Snuggly, fun, bouncy and playful -- who isn't smitten with kittens? There's so much to love about kittens--from their cute little mews to their unstoppable mischief-making!
Wait and See by Helen Frost (May 2022)
When you are outside, if a small quick movement takes you by surprise, stop and look—move nothing but your eyes. Could it be a praying mantis, trying not to be seen?
Worst-Case Collin by Rebecca Caprara (September 2021)
Collin is always prepared for something to go wrong. Ever since he lost his mom in a car accident, he's been journaling about how to overcome things like avalanches, riptides, or even a bad case of halitosis. Meanwhile, Collin's father grows more distant by the day, and has started hoarding things throughout their house. Determined to hide his home life from his friends, Collin navigates middle school alongside the hilarious and clueless Liam, and Georgia, who Collin may have feelings for. Can Collin learn to be vulnerable around those he loves, even when he can't control every possible scenario?
Zoobilations! Animal Poems and Paintings by Douglas Florian (March 2022)
Discover the poetry of the animal kingdom! Come horse around and live out your ele-phant-asies in this utterly original collection of animal poems. From the s t r e t c h of a giraffe’s neck to the smooth skin of a naked mole rat, readers will see animals in a whole new way—and laugh like hyenas as they turn each pun-filled page.