Celebrate Summer With Some Beach Reads!

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The temperature is rising, and some families may be packing up and heading to the beach to have some fun in the sun, perhaps bringing a book along with them! Even for kids who aren’t making their way to a coastline this summer, there isn’t a better time of year to get some outdoor reading done, especially when that reading is about the wonder of ocean life. This month’s S-Collection blog offers a variety of nautical-themed books to get you in a beachy, summertime mood. The picture books feature stories about ocean animals big and small, with special attention paid to the shells they leave behind. For kids interested in learning more about the ocean and all its wonder, check out the nonfiction selection for oceanic history and life books. Finally, if you’re looking for longer material, the juvenile fiction section highlights chapter books and graphic novels about summertime and life by the sea. Whether you want to learn more about oceans and beaches this summer or find some exciting summer-themed books to combat your reading slump, the S-Collection has what you need this July!

Fiction Picture Books

Salati, Doug
Hot Dog. 2022. Picture Book.
It’s a hot, sunny day in a big, crowded city, and this dachshund needs a break! It has been a long morning of running errands, and he’s had enough – which he shows to his owner by plopping down on his behind in the middle of a busy crosswalk. Luckily, his owner knows just what to do to cure the summer blues. Dog and human take a taxi, train, and boat to get to a secluded island, where the dog is free to roam, play in the sand, and even meet new aquatic friends. This hot dog is able to cool down when he gets a bit of respite from the city, and at the end of the evening, the pair returns to their apartment, renewed and ready for the next day. The fun and even healing power of the beach takes the spotlight in this delightful romp, winner of both the Caldecott Medal and the Ezra Jack Keats Award.
SE. Sa316ho

Sicuro, Aimée
If You Spot a Shell. 2024. Picture Book.
A day at the beach is not complete without a hunt for shells! In this picture book, the young narrator lets their imagination run wild, seeing the shells as hats, umbrellas, wheels, and more. Use the book’s picture encyclopedia in the back if you want to learn about all of the different shells you find on your own beach day, and follow the instructions to make shell rubbings if you want to bring a little piece of nature home with you!
Q. SE. Si129ifsp

Weisner, David
Flotsam. 2006. Picture Book.
This classic wordless picture book follows a young boy as he explores the beach. A perfectly-timed wave leads him to an old camera covered in barnacles, and, letting curiosity get the best of him, he takes the film in to be developed. The pictures he receives depict underwater scenes both bizarre and marvelous, and kids will want to pour over each photo endlessly, hoping to catch every little interesting detail. Winner of the 2007 Caldecott Medal.
Q. SE. W637f

Nonfiction Picture Books

Bern, Jennifer
Illustrated by: Amanda Hall
How the Sea Came to Be. 2023. Nonfiction Picture Book.
This engrossing nonfiction picture book whisks readers through billions of years of oceanic history with rhyming, lyrical text and beautiful artwork. The journey begins before the ocean existed at all, eventually moving forward to a time when water covered much of the earth yet contained no life. The ocean was eventually, however, the source of all life, and this book traces that evolution, made engaging through the colorful, detailed pictures on each page. Perfect for young readers who want to learn more about the beaches and water they play in each summer.
S.551.46 B4574ho

Butterfield, Moira
Illustrated by Jesús Verona
Look What I Found at the Beach. 2022. Nonfiction Picture Book.
This search-and-find picture book follows a group of children having a fun day at the beach. On each page, they find something new, be it a shell, a fossil, or a bird. Readers can pull out a magnifying glass to see if they, too, can find the ocean wonders. At the end of the book, the children take home their pile of treasures as keepsakes to remember their exciting summer day. Readers will learn more about the ocean and the creatures who call it home throughout this engaging text.
Q. S.577.51 B982lo

Messner, Kate
Illustrated by: Christopher Silas Neal
Over and Under the Waves. 2022. Nonfiction Picture Book.
While the red paddleboards belonging to this book’s young narrator may catch the eye of those above water, it looks completely different to viewers below. Different perspectives and angles of life under the sea are illuminated in this book, which covers the smallest blades of kelp to the largest humpback whales. The narrator ends the day at the ocean’s edge, scouring the shoreline for shells and other ocean life. Simple, rhythmic language makes this book accessible to even the youngest of readers. If you can’t get enough of this deep dive into unique animal habitats, see other books in Kate Messner’s Over and Under series, also in the S-Collection.
Q. S.577.7 M5641ov

Juvenile Fiction

Clanton, Ben
Illustrated by: Tara Walker
Narwhal: Unicorn of the Sea. 2016. Juvenile Graphic Novel.
In this juvenile graphic novel, readers are introduced to the characters Jelly and Narwhal through simple yet endearing illustrations. They are initially hesitant to meet one another – sea creatures can be pretty strange-looking, after all – but they soon learn to appreciate how different and special they each are. Even though Narwhal is endlessly cheerful and upbeat while Jelly can be a bit gloomy at times, the two become the best of buddies. Soon, they’re meeting even more odd sea creatures and introducing readers to the diversity of life in the ocean. For those who can’t get enough of these characters’ goofy friendship, follow their adventures into the sequels, also in the S-Collection.
S.741.5973 C529njun

Durfey-Lavoie, Lee.
Illustrated by: Veronica Agarwal
Sink or Swim. 2024. Juvenile Graphic Novel.
It’s summertime, but middle-schooler Ty isn’t excited for the months in the sun. He was unable to participate in last season’s swim team due to an injury, and in the time he spent away, he also distanced himself from his two best friends. The trio is reunited at camp, and throughout the summer, Ty must balance his complex feelings towards them as well as his depression. A thoughtful story about changing friendships and mental health set in the backdrop of the summer between school years.
S.741.5973 D9341jusi

Taylor, Will
The Language of Seabirds. 2022. Juvenile Fiction.
Instead of having fun with friends this summer, 12-year-old Jeremy is forced to travel to an Oregon beachside town with his father while his mother prepares to move out of their house. His parents are newly separated, and although Jeremy always saw his dad as the relaxed, happy-go-lucky parent, he watches him become increasingly ornery and dependent on alcohol as the days go by. Jeremy has recently realized he is gay, but his troubles with his parents put his plans to come out on hold. One day, Jeremy sees a boy running on the beach, and the two strike up a friendship that has the potential to grow into something more. A sweet summertime romance, perfect to read while relaxing on the beach this July.
S. T2194la

MG

Celebrating Juneteenth with Picture Books and Chapter Books

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16th President Abraham Lincoln may have signed the Emancipation Proclamation in early 1863, but it took months and sometimes years for the news that slavery was abolished to actually reach every corner of the country. The date it reached Texas was June 19th, 1865, and every year since, Americans mark “Juneteenth” (a combination of the words “June” and “Nineteenth”) to celebrate the emancipation of enslaved people in the United States. For this year’s Juneteenth, the S-Collection blog highlights different books in the collection that celebrate this holiday and draw attention to African American history. The collection of fictional picture books features celebratory stories of families gathering for the holiday, while the nonfiction picture books describe its origins and the important figures, such as Opal Lee, who brought Juneteenth into the spotlight. Finally, the collection of juvenile historical fiction offers book recommendations about three eras – the 1800s, the 1940s, and the 1960s – so readers can get a glimpse into African American history through time. Whether you’re looking for picture books or chapter books, the S-Collection has what you need to celebrate Juneteenth this June!

Fiction Picture Books

Armand, Glenda
Illustrated by: Corey Barksdale
The Night Before Freedom. 2023. Fiction Picture Book.
It’s Juneteenth in Galveston, Texas, and young David is with his family, celebrating the holiday and learning about its history. Told in the same poetic structure as famous children’s poem ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas, David’s grandmother tells the story of her grandmother first hearing the Emancipation Proclamation read aloud by a solider, many months after it had supposedly taken effect. The beauty of the present-day celebration, full of parades, meals, and speeches, is directly connected to the excitement and freedom of the original 1865 holiday. Perfect for those seeking to learn about the history of Juneteenth through the eyes of a child.
Q. SE. Ar5422ni

Giddens, Rhiannon
Illustrated by: Monica Mikai
Build a House. 2022. Fiction Picture Book.
Written to commemorate the 155th anniversary of Juneteenth, this song-turned-picture book follows an enslaved Black family that is forced to come to America and build houses for their white enslavers. Although the homes are entirely their handiwork, they aren’t their own – until the end of the story, when the family is finally able to not only build a house but plant a tree whose roots are secured to one spot, never to be moved. This multi-media book has a QR code in the back for those who would prefer to hear its words sung by author Rhiannon Giddens, accompanied by cellist Yo-Yo Ma.
Q. SE. G36bu

Tripplett, Natasha
Illustrated by: Daniel J. O’Brien
Juneteenth is… 2024. Fiction Picture Book.
It’s Juneteenth, and celebrations abound in this young protagonist’s neighborhood! Throughout the day, we follow this character and her family as they go to the parade, play games, have a meal, and share family stories and history, including the history of the holiday itself. The simple repeating phrase “Juneteenth is…” makes this story about the holiday lyrical, fun, and perfect for new readers.
Q. SE. T7381ju

Nonfiction Picture Books

Agostini, Alliah L.
Illustrated by: Cloud Sawyer
The Juneteenth Story: Celebrating the End of Slavery in the United States. 2022. Nonfiction Picture Book.
This nonfiction picture book journeys from the original Juneteenth holiday to more recent history, such as the Jim Crow era and the Black Lives Matter movement, to demonstrate the holiday’s significance while addressing how the struggle for African American liberation did not conclude with the end of slavery. Instead, the author shows how the Emancipation Proclamation is one event in a long line of many events that have defined the African American experience. The bright, cartoon-style artwork makes this text even more interesting to a young audience.
Available online

Duncan, Alice Faye
Illustrated by: Keturah A. Bobo
Opal Lee and What it Means to be Free: The True Story of the Grandmother of Juneteenth. 2022. Nonfiction Picture Book.
Juneteenth was designated a federal holiday in 2021, and this is largely due to the lifelong activism of Opal Lee, known by some as the “Grandmother of Juneteenth.” This nonfiction picture book biography follows Opal Lee herself as she celebrates Juneteenth with her family. Lee spins a story for those gathered, telling them about growing up in Jim Crow America and her unceasing fight for the Juneteenth holiday to receive the recognition it deserves. This book ends with a recipe for a Juneteenth “Red Punch” strawberry lemonade for anyone who wants to celebrate this holiday by indulging their sweet-tooth!
S.323.092 D9121op

Taylor, Kim
A Flag for Juneteenth. 2023. Nonfiction Picture Book.
Set on the first ever Juneteenth in 1865, this story serves as both a history lesson and an art project, given it was created by expert quilter Kim Taylor. Following the news of the Emancipation Proclamation finally reaching Texas, a young formerly enslaved child named Huldah celebrates her newfound freedom by creating quilted flags. Each flag was lovingly created for the book by Taylor herself, taking her over a year to create. A perfect introduction to Juneteenth’s history accompanied by beautiful artwork.
SE. T2158fl

African American Juvenile Historical Fiction

Era: Early 19th century

Luqman-Dawson, Amina
Freewater. 2022. Juvenile Fiction.
This first book in the African American Juvenile Historical Fiction category is also the earliest chronologically, set during the era of Antebellum slavery. Illuminating an aspect of African American history not often taught in schools, this book is set primarily in a secret community of formerly enslaved people living in Southern swamplands. Called “Freewater,” the community becomes the home of young Homer and his sister Ada, who became separated from their mother during an attempt to escape their enslavement. Their mother was recaptured, but with the knowledge and strength that Freewater provides them, Homer sets out to rescue his mother in this vivid, beautifully written winner of both the 2023 Newbery Medal and the Coretta Scott King Award.
S.794.1092 Ad36ta

Era: 1940s

Cline-Ransome, Lisa
The Finding Langston Trilogy. 2018-2021. Juvenile Fiction.
The next series in this category jumps forward over a century to 1940s Chicago. The first in the series follows a young boy named Langston as he mourns the death of his mother, adjusts to moving from Alabama to Illinois, and ultimately finds solace in the poetry of Langston Hughes. The second turns its focus to Langston’s bully Lymon, a character just as compelling and sympathetic as Langston himself. The final book in the trilogy tells Clem’s story and is set against the background of the Port Chicago disaster. Together, these stories weave a complex narrative of grief, hope, and perseverance in Jim Crow America.
Finding Langston (2018): S. C615fi
Leaving Lymon (2020): S. C615le
Being Clem (2021): S. C615be

Era: 1960s

Williams-Garcia, Rita
The Gaither Sisters Trilogy. 2010-2015. Juvenile Fiction.
The final series in this category travels forward 20 years to the 1960s and westward to California, where the Gaither sisters – Delphine, Vonetta, and Fern – are spending the summer with their mother, who left their home in Brooklyn to join the Black Panthers. Throughout the summer, the sisters balance their complex feelings about their mother and learn about the Black liberation movement in Oakland. In the second installment, the sisters board a plane back to Brooklyn, where their lessons learned in Oakland help them navigate the upheaval in their household caused by their father’s new girlfriend and their uncle’s return from the Vietnam war. Finally, in the last book of the trilogy, the sisters take another trip, this time to their rural family home in Alabama. Readers will love following these sisters’ journey as they travel throughout the U.S. and to different eras of African American history.
One Crazy Summer (2010): S. W6724o
P.S. Be Eleven (2013): S. W6724p
Gone Crazy in Alabama (2015): S. W6721g

MG

Try Tabletop Games This Screen-Free Week!

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Each year, the first full week of May marks Screen-Free Week, and kids and families alike are encouraged to turn off their TVs, power down their tablets and phones, and try out some screen-free activities to prepare for a fun summer! Although there are tons of screen-free activities that get kids outside, such as trying new sports, playing at local playgrounds, and going on nature walks, those activities only work in fair weather. What are screen-free kids to do when clouds and rain ruin their fun? One option would be to try out tabletop games! Classic strategy games such as chess may engage kids interested in tactics, but for kids looking to expand their imagination and creativity, role-playing games might be the perfect escape. To inspire young readers interested in trying out screen-free fun this week, this month’s S-Collection blog offers recommendations of juvenile graphic novels, juvenile fiction, and picture books that feature tabletop games. Whether you want to read about the fun and excitement in the world of competitive chess or fantasy-inspired role-playing games, the S-Collection has what you need to celebrate Screen-Free week this May!

Juvenile Graphic Novels

Durfey-Lavoie, Lee
Illustrated by: Veronica Agarwal
Just Roll With It. 2021. Juvenile Graphic Novel.
Starting middle school brings a lot of change to Maggie Sankhar’s life: New friends, new clubs, and a new mystery to solve in the form of the monster she is certain is roaming campus. Maggie has always loved playing a fantasy role-playing game that uses a 20-sided die, so to help her make the tough decisions she is suddenly faced with, she starts rolling it in real life. As much as she loves the role-playing game, taking the die out of the game sometimes makes things more difficult. Maggie’s struggle with anxiety and OCD, as well as her budding new friendships and hobbies, are explored in this heartwarming and thoughtful graphic novel that might just inspire kids to spin up a fantasy world of their own.
S.741.5973 D9341ju

Holm, Jennifer
Illustrated by: Matthew Holm
Sunny Rolls the Dice. 2019. Juvenile Graphic Novel.
Sunny Rolls the Dice is the third graphic novel in the Sunny Side Up series, a lighthearted yet honest look at growing up in 1970s America. In this installment, Sunny finds herself in between her own passions and those of her friends, who enjoy going to the mall, talking about boys, and updating their wardrobe. Sunny, meanwhile, has recently learned about a brand-new tabletop role-playing game called Dungeons and Dragons. Her new D&D friends are nothing like her old ones, and Sunny suddenly finds herself torn in two different directions. The excitement of early D&D, which may make some young readers try out the game themselves, is captured in this upbeat graphic novel.
S.741.5973 H73suro

Sattin, Samuel
Buzzing. 2023. Juvenile Graphic Novel.
There’s a “buzzing” in the head of middle-schooler Isaac: intrusive thoughts, which are a symptom of his recently-diagnosed OCD. It makes it hard for Isaac to focus in school, which, in turn, makes his overbearing but well-meaning mother even more worried. A breakthrough comes when Isaac’s fantasy drawings catch the attention of the local role-playing group, and he is invited to play the tabletop game Swamps & Sorcery with them. Isaac instantly connects with the game, as well as his fellow players, but his mother isn’t so sure that the game will improve his mental health. The benefits of storytelling, gaming, and creativity are uplifted in this inclusive graphic novel.
S.741.5934 Sa838bu

Juvenile Fiction

Anders, Lou
Frostborn. 2014. Juvenile Fiction.
This first book in a Nordic-inspired trilogy introduces Karn, a young boy more interested in playing the strategy game Thrones and Bones than learning how to farm, and Thianna, a 7-foot-tall adolescent girl considered “short” by her peers … she grew up around giants, after all. Thianna is a half-giant on her father’s side, but her mother has been dead for many long years. After a figure from her mother’s past enters her life, Thianna and her new friend Karn are thrust into a world much like Karn’s favorite fantasy game … with much higher stakes. Watch this unlikely duo find their way, learn about their pasts, and take on monsters in this exciting juvenile series.
S. An225f

Milford, Kate
Greenglass House. 2014. Juvenile Fiction.
Milo is settling in for a typical Christmas at his adoptive parents’ inn, but his plans for a quiet holiday quickly fly off-track when five mysterious guests arrive for a stay. Each guest is quirky, demanding, and on the hunt for a secret treasure someplace in the cliffside hotel. After Milo is introduced to a role-playing game by his new friend Meddy, the duo dons alter egos based on the game, which gives them the confidence to investigate the strange goings-on. Even better, embodying the character empowers Milo to investigate his Chinese heritage. Twists and turns abound in this juvenile mystery, which features a fun tabletop game called Odd Trails that might just contain the answer to the puzzle.
S. M598gr

Karuna, Riazi
The Gauntlet. 2017. Juvenile Fiction.
It’s Farah’s 12th birthday party, and things just don’t feel the same as they used to. Her old friends Essie and Alex are there to celebrate with her, but ever since Farah moved, it has become harder and harder to connect with the kids she once knew so well. A mysterious gift from her aunt, however, sends the party in an entirely new direction. The gift is a strange mechanical board game called The Gauntlet of Blood and Sand, and Farah doesn’t even have a chance to play it before her younger brother, Ahmad, is transported into its world. Banding together to save Ahmad, Farah, Essie, and Alex must enter the game and participate in three challenges against the evil Lord Amari … and if they don’t win each one, all four of them will be trapped forever. This first book in a three-book series will draw players into the fantastical world of the Gauntlet and the power of friendships, old and new.
S. R351g

Picture Books

Adewumi, Tani
Illustrated by: Courtney Dawson
Tani’s New Home: A Refugee Finds Hope & Kindness in America. 2019. Picture Book Biography.
Six-year-old Tani’s family faces religious persecution in Nigeria, and even though Tani is a bit nervous to start over his life as a refugee in America, he soon discovers something that brings him hope: Chess. Tani’s new life in a homeless shelter is made brighter as he spends hour after hour, day after day, studying this classic game on the floor of his room. It is quickly apparent that Tani is a chess prodigy, and he eventually takes his skills to the New York State Scholastic Championship. The perseverance of immigrants to America and the power (and fun!) of chess is made obvious in this stunning picture book biography.
S.794.1092 Ad36ta

Van Allsburg, Chris
Jumanji. 1981. Picture Book.
This classic picture book follows two bored kids, Judy and Peter, who are trying to think of something to do while their parents are out for the day. A walk in the park causes them to stumble upon a strange board game called Jumanji. Ignoring the mysterious warnings on the box, the two kids start to play and quickly discover that everything that happens in this jungle-themed game will happen in real life. If you can’t get enough of Van Allsburg’s worldbuilding, check out its sequel Zathura, also in the S-Collection (Q. SE. V263za).
SE. V263J

Weatherford, Carole Boston
Illustrated by: Eric Velasquez
The Queen of Chess: How Judit Polgár Changed the Game. 2023. Picture Book Biography.
Widely regarded as the best female chess player of all time, Judit Polgár was born in Budapest in the 1970s. She is the daughter of chess teacher and child psychologist László Polgár, and at her father’s behest, Judit was tutored extensively in chess from an early age and quickly revealed herself to be a star player. At age 12, she became the youngest ever chess grandmaster, beating the previous record by a month of age. Watch Judit’s incredible journey to chess stardom in this fascinating picture book biography.
Q. SB. P7582wa

MG


A Little Self-Love: Books about Libraries

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It’s never a bad idea to engage in a little self-love, and for the Social Sciences, Health, and Education Library (SSHEL), the best time to do so is during National Library Week (April 6-12)! The American Library Association (ALA) spearheads the celebration of National Library Week each year to draw attention to the many ways libraries help their communities read, learn, have fun, and connect. To celebrate, you could attend a library program, make sure you’re a public library card holder, or even read a book about libraries…there are more books like this than you might think! This month’s S-Collection blog suggests a few library- and librarian-focused books that you or the young readers in your life might enjoy. Whether you’re interested in picture books, chapter books, or nonfiction books, the S-Collection has what you need to celebrate National Library Week this April!

Picture Books

Beatrice, Jenna
Illustrated by: Erika Lynne Jones
The Loud Librarian. 2023. Picture Book.
Penelope is a major bookworm and would be perfect in the role of “library helper” – if it weren’t for her loud voice! Throughout this lighthearted picture book, Penelope’s excitement and love for libraries sometimes means she speaks a little too loud, represented by her large and colorful speech balloons that take over the pages and eventually knock over an entire shelf of books. Luckily, libraries are for everyone, and Penelope finds her place in the library’s outdoor storytime. Young readers who sometimes struggle with staying quiet in libraries will relate to Penelope’s well-meaning excitement and can-do attitude.
Q. SE. B3807lo

Mitchell, Malcolm
Illustrated by: Joanne Lew-Vriethoff
The Magician’s Hat. 2018. Picture Book.
Library programs are truly magic in this picture book about a library’s Family Fun Day. The library has invited a magician to entertain the library patrons, and he promises to amaze the gathered children with what he pulls out of his hat. Rather than rabbits, this magician can procure books, but not just any books – books about what each child in attendance wants to be when they grow up. Reading and libraries alike are uplifted in this sweet story, authored by football player Malcolm Mitchell.
Q. SE. M6947ma

Papp, Lisa
Madeline Finn and the Library Dog. 2016. Picture Book.
Madeline Finn is a dog lover, but she is not a book lover. In fact, Madeline hates all kinds of reading – magazines, menus, and especially reading aloud in front of her classmates. Her classmates, after all, might be judging her and the way she sometimes struggles to read the words right. On one visit to her local library, however, the librarian makes Madeline an offer: Would she like to read to a dog? Bonnie the library dog doesn’t judge when Madeline makes mistakes, and after practicing with her week after week, Madeline soon has the confidence to read in front of her classmates with pride. Unique library services are highlighted in this heartwarming picture book about girls’ best friend.
Q. SE. P1987mfli

Middle Grade

Magoon, Kekla
The Secret Library. 2024. Middle Grade.
Eleven-year-old Dally is expected to take over Peteharrington Enterprises when she comes of age, a responsibility that comes with extensive tutoring. That tutoring takes away time from Dally’s true love: Adventure. Her grandpa used to support Dally’s love of magic and mystery, but ever since his death, Dally has had to face her strict and no-nonsense mother alone. Yearning for freedom from routine, Dally decides to open a letter her grandpa left her, which points her in the direction of a magical library whose books can transport her into the past. With the help of a trusty librarian, Dally begins exploring her family history, ultimately learning more about her mother and herself.
S. M275sec

Pennypacker, Sara
Illustrated by: Matthew Cordell
Leeva at Last. 2023. Middle Grade.
Leeva has a big question on her mind: What are people for? Her mother says fame and her father says wealth, but Leeva thinks it might be something more. Although her parents forbid her from leaving their property and attending school, Leeva sets out on her own, eventually stumbling upon the public library. There, she meets a librarian and her nephew who offer an entirely new perspective. Unfortunately for Leeva, her parents don’t support the library, and it’s up to Leeva and her new friends to protect it from those who don’t see its value. The importance of libraries to a community’s well-being is cemented in this over-the-top and joyful story of resistance from within.
S. P385le

Varnes, Allison
Property of the Rebel Librarian. 2018. Middle Grade.
June Harper is a rule follower, but after her middle school succumbs to pressure to censor and remove books from their library, she learns that some rules are meant to be broken. A voracious reader, June is close friends with her school librarian, Ms. Bradshaw, and spends a lot of time checking out interesting books such as The Makings of a Witch. When her parents decide this title is inappropriate, they bring their complaints to the PTA, get Ms. Bradshaw suspended, and begin withdrawing books from the library collection. Refusing to let reading go down without a fight, June opens a secret library full of banned books for the students to use. The freedom to read is brought to the forefront in this story of a young activist finding her voice.
S. V4312pr

Juvenile Nonfiction

Denise, Anika
Illustrated by: Paola Escobar
Planting Stories: The Life of Librarian and Storyteller Pura Belpré. 2019. Juvenile Nonfiction.
In this colorful and lyrical biography, readers will learn about Pura Belpré, the first Puerto Rican librarian to work at the New York Public Library. Belpré’s bilingual storytelling and use of characters from Puerto Rican folklore filled a major gap in the library’s service. Belpré even wrote and published children’s books in Spanish when she realized there were no books for Spanish-speaking children to read. Belpré’s legacy and the exciting ways that librarians can uplift their community are made real throughout this beautifully illustrated nonfiction picture book.
Q. SB. B4189d

Kunkel, Angela Burke
Illustrator: Paola Escobar
Digging for Words: José Alberto Gutierrez and the Library He Built. 2020. Juvenile Nonfiction.
In this picture book biography, the inspiring story of garbage collector-turned library founder José Alberto Gutiérrez is brought to light. While collecting trash one day in his Colombian neighborhood, Gutiérrez found something in a garbage can that caught his eye: A book called Anna Karenina. Entranced, Gutiérrez read the novel over and over, eventually deciding to look for other tossed-out books to make a library. Over time, Gutiérrez’s library becomes a neighborhood staple, bringing the joy of reading to children across the city.
Q. S.027.0861 K9628di

Weatherford, Carole Boston
Illustrated by: Eric Velasquez
Schomburg: The Man Who Built a Library. 2017. Juvenile Nonfiction.
Arturo Schomburg may have been a mail clerk by day, but in his free time, he was collecting untold stories and histories. Schomburg had long believed the history of Africa and African-Americans had been hidden away and whitewashed, so, seeking to fix this himself, he began to collect a vast number of materials on African writers, poets, revolutionaries, and visionaries. His work resulted in a comprehensive collection that was ultimately donated to the New York Public Library; its legacy is carried on today through the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture. This book is told through a series of poems, making it engaging and unique for anyone hoping to learn more about libraries this April.
Q. SB. S369w

MG

Celebrating Transgender Day of Visibility with Art and Illustration

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Each year, International Transgender Day of Visibility is celebrated on March 31st to honor transgender people across the globe and advocate for trans rights and freedoms. Luckily for young readers, a multitude of children’s books exploring trans issues and/or starring trans characters are available to enjoy on this holiday and all throughout the year. Some stand out due to their engaging use of art to make the stories come alive. This month’s S-Collection blog draws attention to some of these illustrated books, which are perfect for trans kids and allies alike. The picture book selection features books about young trans kids navigating school and the society around them, while the graphic novel selection presents options for middle grade readers who love fantasy, science fiction, and the paranormal. Finally, the illustrated memoir section includes both a picture book and longer-form graphic novels that tell deeply personal stories of real trans kids who learned how to embrace and express themselves. Whatever kind of book you like to read best, S-Collection has what you need to enjoy beautiful illustrations and celebrate Transgender Day of Visibility this March!

Picture Books

Lukoff, Kyle
Illustrated by: Luciano Lozano
Call Me Max. 2019. Picture Book.
This picture book, which features soft and simple cartoon artwork by Luciano Lozano, stars Max, a young transgender boy. Written with sensitivity and warmth by trans author Kyle Lukoff, Max’s story starts on the first day of school when he informs his teacher of the name he would like to be called. Throughout the day, Max makes friends, learns more about gender, and tells his parents about his new name and identity, making this book a perfect introduction to the nuances of gender expression for young readers.
Q. SE. L9696ca

Shashi, Kanak
Guthli Has Wings. 2019. Picture Book.
Youngest child Guthli is excited to celebrate Diwali, but when she selects the clothing that she would like to wear for the holiday – namely, a beautiful, flowy frock like her sister’s – her family is rather shocked. Although Guthli knows she is a girl, this comes as a surprise to her loved ones. However, their lack of understanding eventually transforms into a celebration of their transgender family member in this picture book about culture and love, made even more beautiful through the colorful and bold illustrations by author-illustrator Kanak Shashi.
S. Sh2485gu

Wild, A. M.
Illustrated by: Kah Yangni
Not He or She, I’m Me. 2023. Picture Book.
The unnamed narrator of this vibrant picture book eats breakfast with their mom, has a fun time at school, and plays with their friends in the afternoon during a day filled with excitement and connection. Throughout the day, they repeat to themselves that they are “not he or she, I’m me,” making this a simple and heartfelt story of nonbinary joy. Illustrator Kah Yangni’s artwork shines on each page, featuring not only watercolor and paint but crayon, newspaper, and more.
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Middle Grade Graphic Novels

Symes-Smith, Esme
Sir Callie and the Champions of Helston. 2022. Middle Grade Graphic Novel.
Set in a fantasy world where only boys can become knights, this story follows 12-year-old Callie, who is deeply discouraged by the lack of options presented to them. Callie wants to train alongside their father’s student, the young Prince Willow, but the culture around them makes their dream harder to reach. On top of it all, war is looming over the kingdom, meaning Callie’s fight has only just begun. Beautiful artwork from author-illustrator Esme Symes-Smith accentuates this character-driven story of resistance. Readers who must know where Sir Callie’s adventures take them will be happy to hear that the book has two sequels, also located in the S-Collection.
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Visaggio, Magdalene
Illustrated by: Jenn St-Onge
The Ojja-Wojja: A Horror-Mystery, or Whatever. 2021. Middle Grade Graphic Novel.
When Val is assigned an independent study project on the supernatural history of her town of Bolingbroke, she knows she won’t be doing it alone: Her magic-obsessed friend Lanie is more than eager to come along! Lanie is subject to bullying at school because she is trans, while Val is similarly outcast due to her autism. The girls’ main bully, a popular girl named Andrea, becomes embroiled in their adventure when Val’s research accidentally releases an ancient spirit called the Ojja-Wojja. Evocative artwork by Jenn St-Onge showcases the horror of both paranormal creatures and junior high in this engaging graphic novel.
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Wibowo, Jacinta
Lunar Boy. 2024. Middle Grade Graphic Novel.
Indu is a young trans boy who grew up in relative security on the spaceship community Eyesun. When Indu’s journey on the ship comes to an end, however, he must disembark for the planet New Earth, where things aren’t so easy. After communicating with the moon where his adoptive mother found him years ago, Indu accepts an offer to return to that moon in the new year. Knowing his visit to New Earth is soon ending, Indu decides to make the most of his time there – an experience which, over time, leads him to question if he’d really like to leave, after all. Author-illustrator duo Jes and Cin Wibowo accentuate this moving narrative of acceptance and hope with their vibrant artistic style.
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Illustrated Memoirs

Neal, Trinity and DeShanna
Illustrated by: Art Twink
My Rainbow. 2020. Nonfiction Picture Book.
DeShanna loves her young transgender daughter Trinity, so when Trinity expresses a desire to have long and beautiful hair, her mother is determined to make it happen. Trinity, who is autistic, doesn’t like the feeling of hair touching the back of her neck, so growing it out is difficult for her. The duo takes a trip to the beauty store, but none of the wigs seem like the right fit. DeShanna takes matters into her own hands and decides to make Trinity the perfect rainbow wig, which is beautifully rendered by illustrator Art Twink in this moving picture book memoir.
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Parish, Theo
Homebody. 2018 Graphic Novel Memoir.
Author-illustrator Theo Parish tells their story of finding themselves and their gender identity in this cozy graphic novel memoir. Through cosplaying characters at conventions, inventing characters to play in role-playing games, and speaking with their transgender friends and role models, Parish explains how they discovered their identity as a nonbinary person. Throughout, Parish draws a small house in the place of their torso, emphasizing how readers should express themselves in a way that makes them feel at home in their body.
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White, Grayson Lee
Illustrated by: Stephanie Roth Sisson
Dotson: My Journey Growing Up Transgender. 2023. Graphic Novel Memoir.
Through a series of vignettes, Dotson tells his story of how he realized he was transgender at a young age and set out to express his identity through haircuts, clothes, hormone blockers, and more. His parents’ unyielding support for their son plays a large role in Dotson’s positive experience with transitioning and finding himself. The simple and charming illustrations by Stephanie Roth Sisson shine throughout this graphic novel, based on the author’s own experiences.
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MG

International Day of Women and Girls in Science

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February 11, 2025, marks International Day of Women and Girls in Science. In this February blog, we highlight the extraordinary contributions of women in the science field. This international holiday, originating from the United Nations, seeks to promote equal access and participation of women in science. Read along with us as we explore biographies of legendary scientists to fictional tales on what makes science great!

Ahmed, Roda
Illustrator: Burrington, Stasia
Mae Among the Stars. 2018. Picture Book.
Mae Among the Stars is the inspirational biographical tale of Mae Jemison, the first Black woman to travel to space. Jemison’s story serves as inspiration to young readers on the achievement of their dreams and how, as Mae’s mom described, “If you believe it, and work hard for it, anything is possible.” Ahmed brings forth an important message to young readers on aspiring to the impossible, dreaming about their wildest aspirations, and never losing their courage and imagination.
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Beaty, Andrea
Illustrator: Roberts, David
Ada Twist, Scientist. 2016. Picture Book.
Ada Twist, Scientist is a part of a larger picture book series titled The Questionnaires and is inspired by real life scientists Marie Curie and Ada Lovelace. Ada Twist is characterized by her sheer curiosity as she wades her way through failed experiments and scientific missions that go sideways, and she learns the important lesson of how to navigate through problems and obstacles while maintaining her curiosity, love of science, and determination to try again.
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Burleigh, Robert
Illustrator: Colón, Raúl
Solving the Puzzle Under the Sea: Marie Tharp maps the ocean floor. 2016. Picture Book.
This illustrated biography explores the life of Marie Tharp, an American geologist and oceanographic cartographer, who collaborated with Bruce Heezen to produce the first map of the Atlantic Ocean floor. Before Marie Tharp, many other scientists made efforts to measure the depth of the ocean with no luck. Marie’s determination and aspirations despite the obstacles encountered along the way, such as being turned away from a ship due to being a woman and it being considered “bad luck” to have a woman aboard, will be inspirational to any young scientist. Marie never gave up on her dream to give us grander knowledge about our planet.
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Dalton, Angela
Illustrator: Semmer, Lauren
To Boldly Go: How Nichelle Nichols and Star Trek helped advance civil rights. 2023. Picture Book.
To boldly go delves into the legacy of Nichelle Nichols, an American actress known for her portrayal of Lieutenant Uhura in the original Star Trek series. Nichols’s character was revolutionary during its time due to being one of the first portrayals of a Black female astronaut on screen. Lieutenant Uhura inspired generations of future astronauts like Mae Jemison, who described seeing Nichols on the screen as inspiration for her later becoming an astronaut herself. Additionally, Nichols used her platform from Star Trek and worked with NASA to recruit minorities to join the agency and STEM fields. To Boldly Go is an important reminder for the audience on the power of representation in media and inspiring young readers to push the barriers.
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Deutsch, Stacia
Girls Who Code: The Friendship Code. 2017. Middle Grade.
Girls Who Code is a middle grade fiction series published in partnership with the Girls Who Code organization and is a perfect recommendation for any reader that is a fan of the Babysitter’s Club or computer science. The Friendship Code is the first book in the series that revolves around a character named Lucy, who is beyond excited to join her after-school coding club that will help her on her quest in developing an app. However, her excitement is short-lived when she is assigned to be in a group with girls she does not know. When Lucy begins to receive cryptic coding messages, she needs to figure out how to translate them, and along the way, she recognizes how friendship and coding alike take time to develop.
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Larson, Kirsten W.
Illustrator: Roy, Katherine
The Fire of Stars: The life and brilliance of the woman who discovered what stars are made of. 2023. Picture Book.
The Fire of Stars is a biographical picture book based on the astronomer and astrophysicist Cecilia Payne. Payne is famous for discovering the composition of stars, which is hydrogen and helium. The Fire of Stars‘ lyrical prose and vivid text come together beautifully with the graphics from award-winning illustrator Katherine Roy. This biographical story takes you on a journey from the beginning of Cecilia Payne’s life as a curious little girl who utilizes that curiosity to become one of today’s most well-known scientists.
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Márquez, Melissa Cristina
Illustrator: Kurtz, Devin Elle
Mother of Sharks. 2023. Picture Book.
Mother of Sharks highlights the extraordinary life of Melissa Cristina Márquez, a Puerto Rican marine biologist, conservationist, and much more. She studies Great White Sharks and their relatives. Mother of Sharks focuses on Melissa’s personal story of how she went from living in Puerto Rico and falling in love with the ocean to being renowned as the “Mother of Sharks.” This picture book delves into both the autobiographical story of Melissa’s upbringing and childhood in combination with fantastical elements. Mother of Sharks not only wishes to dispel the misconceptions we may have about sharks and other ocean critters, but to lay the foundations for future Latinas in STEM.
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Tanco, Miguel
Count on Me. 2019. Picture Book.
Count on Me is a celebratory picture book honoring math. While everyone in life may have a passion such as music, art, history, or literature, for our heroine in Count on Me, it is math. Our heroine sees it in anything and everything. Whether she observes the world through the concentric circles a stone makes when thrown in a lake, or the geometric shapes on a playground, she sees math in everything. Although everyone in our heroine’s picture book understands that there is math everywhere, our heroine reinforces the ideals of multiple perspectives and that there is more than one way to view the world – math is just one of them.
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Valdez, Patricia
Illustrator: Sala, Felicita
Joan Procter, Dragon Dctor: The woman who loved reptiles. 2018. Picture Book.
This picture book delves into the life of Joan Procter who, when other girls her age were playing with dolls, preferred spending time with reptiles as companions. Procter even brought a crocodile to school once! As the book progresses, it highlights the amazing contributions of Joan, such as designing the Reptile House at the London Zoo. Patricia Valdez’s enthusiastic storytelling accompanied with Felicita Sala’s lively illustrations bring together a memorable story about passion and determination.
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Wallmark, Laurie
Illustrator: Wu, Katy
Grace Hopper: Queen of computer code. 2023. Picture Book.
Grace Hopper was an American computer scientist, mathematician, and pioneer of computer programming. Laurie Wallmark tells the inspiring tale of a revolutionary woman who broke boundaries in her riveting life. Wallmark explores Grace Hoppers’s contributions to the world of computer programming, such as Hopper coining the term “computer bug” and teaching computers how to “speak English.” With an extraordinary number of witty quotes and elaborate illustrations this book brings to life Grace Hopper’s enormous achievements.
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EVS, edited by MG

Ellis Island Day and Celebrating Immigrants to America

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On January 1, 1892, a historic event took place: the opening of Ellis Island. Ellis Island was an immigrant processing station located in the New York Harbor, and in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, 12 million immigrants passed through the station before entering the United States. Today, Ellis Island Day is celebrated each January 1st, and Americans are invited to remember how immigration has played an important role in making the country strong. To help mark this holiday, this month’s S-Collection blog features books that celebrate immigrants to America. The selected picture books tell fictional stories of young immigrants from Mexico, China, and the Philippines, perfect for young readers who are just learning about what it means to be an immigrant to America. The juvenile fiction selection features graphic novels and chapter books that go into more depth about the immigrant experience for older readers. Finally, the nonfiction selection will teach readers about some of the many influential immigrants who have changed America for the better. The S-Collection has what you need to celebrate immigrants to America on this Ellis Island Day!

Picture Books

Águila, Maria Dolores
Illustrated by: Magdalena Mora
Barrio Rising. 2024. Picture Book.
This picture book by Chicana poet Maria Delores Águila is a fictionalized account of real protests that occurred in 1970s San Diego. It is told through the eyes of young Elena, a Mexican-American girl who lives in Barrio Logan with many other Mexican immigrants to the United States. One day, Elena and her mother notice new construction in their neighborhood, which they initially assume to be the start of a park. Elena and other residents are devastated when they learn the city actually intends to build a jail in that location. The barrio bands together to prevent the construction by peacefully occupying the area for nearly 2 weeks. Their hard work and perseverance ultimately results in the creation of Chicano Park, which remains a cultural hub in the community to this day. The spirit and activism of Mexican Americans is uplifted and celebrated in this story of protest and progress.
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Chen, Eva
Illustrated by: Sophia Diao
I Am Golden. 2022. Picture Book.
Chinese-American author Eva Chen celebrates Asian American immigrants in this beautifully illustrated picture book about a young girl named Mei. The book is written as though Mei’s parents are writing it for her, and they address both their gratitude and love towards their daughter and the potential othering she may feel as a newcomer to America. Chen draws attention to notable Chinese Americans to solidify the message about how immigrants have and continue to play an important role in American culture.
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Lee, Sophia N.
Illustrated by: Christine Almeda
Lolo’s Sari-Sari Store. 2023. Picture Book.
The young unnamed narrator of this touching picture book is a recent immigrant to the United States from the Philippines. Back in the Philippines, she used to spend every summer working with her lolo (grandfather) at his sari-sari store. To the narrator, this was more than a store – it was a beacon of community, togetherness, and home. There is no such sari-sari store in America, and the narrator misses it deeply. However, an encounter with a kind stranger at the grocery store reminds her that those who believe in the power of community can find home wherever they go.
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Middle Grade

Arnold, Marie
The Year I Flew Away. 2021. Middle Grade.
Gabrielle Marie Jean is excited to immigrate from Haiti to America – that is, until issues with her parents’ travel documents dictate that Gabrielle will have to travel alone. She soon finds herself living with relatives she has never met in a city that is not entirely welcoming. Gabrielle begins to wonder if the issue lies within her: Perhaps if she could just assimilate, everything would be fine. For better or for worse, she encounters the mysterious Lady Lydia, a witch who promises she can grant Gabriella what she asks for. This fantastical tale draws on Caribbean mythology to tell a story about the importance of immigrant lives, identities, and experiences.
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Dobbs, Alda P.
Barefoot Dreams of Petra Luna. 2021. Middle Grade.
The year is 1913, and young Petra Luna suddenly finds herself in charge of her tight-knit family unit against the backdrop of the Mexican Revolution. When Petra’s village is burned and her father is conscripted into the army, it is up to Petra to lead her two young siblings and elderly grandmother to safety in the United States. During the perilous journey through the desert, Petra tests her strength, resolve, and will to carry on. The story resonates deeply due to the author’s own connection to the experience of being a Mexican immigrant in the United States.
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Tang, Betty C.
Parachute Kids. 2023. Middle Grade.
Feng-Li and her siblings initially think that their family’s trip to America is nothing more than a vacation. While in Los Angeles, however, the trio learns that their parent’s visas have expired and they must return to Taiwan. Feng-Li and her siblings, now “parachute kids,” move in with family friends and begin attending a new school, learning English, and navigating the complexities of American culture. Set in the 1980s, this graphic novel is based on the author’s own experiences and tells an emotional story of perseverance and maintaining hope when your world turns upside-down.
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Juvenile Nonfiction

Abidi, Maliha
Journey to America: Celebrating Inspiring Immigrants Who Became Brilliant Scientists, Game-Changing Activists and Amazing Entertainers. 2022. Juvenile Nonfiction.
This illustrated book will introduce young readers to a variety of first- and second-generation immigrants who changed America for the better. Its range of subjects is vast and includes politicians such as Ilhan Omar, pioneers in the tech world such as Sergey Brin, and sports stars such as Dikembe Mutombo. Cumulatively, this thoughtful book provides context into the lives of 20 influential individuals and their accomplishments.
Available online

Herzog, Brad
W is for Welcome. 2018. Juvenile Nonfiction.
This book is a part of the popular Sleeping Bear Alphabet series and provides an overview of the history of immigration in America and how it has long contributed to a vibrant American culture. Author Brad Herzog goes through the alphabet and assigns each letter a word related to immigration; additionally, many pages highlight an American immigrant who made a positive impact on the world around them. The poetry and paintings throughout help solidify this story that celebrates diversity and togetherness.
Available online

Wallace, Sandra Neil, and others
Illustrated by: Agata Nowicka
First Generation: 36 Trailblazing Immigrants and Refugees Who Make America Great. 2018. Juvenile Nonfiction.
If you like Chobani yogurt, the National Parks Program, or even the Google search engine, then you have American immigrants to thank! These accomplishments and more are detailed in this guide to some of the most influential American trailblazers that were born in countries around the world. Short yet comprehensive 1-page essays are accompanied by colorful illustrations that make this book perfect for young readers eager to learn about how immigration has made the United States – and the world – a stronger and better place.
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Cozy Up with a Mystery this Winter!

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As the weather outside gets colder, everyone is sure to feel the urge to snuggle up next to a fireplace with a good mystery novel. This month’s S-Collection blog will help young readers find the perfect cozy winter mysteries to enjoy, and observant kids will especially love picking up a magnifying glass and trying to solve the puzzles alongside the characters. The picture book selection features lighthearted books with detectives that reign from expert to inept, and the illustrations often hide clues that point towards the culprits. The juvenile fiction books have mysteries that are a tad more difficult to solve, often featuring fantastical elements and rich, whimsical settings. Finally, the juvenile historical fiction selection will take readers back in time to atmospheric and bleak mysteries set in Elizabethan England, 19th-century Stockholm, or 20th-century America. Regardless of reading level or interest, the S-Collection has what you need to cozy up with a mystery this winter!

Picture Books

Davis, Jacky
Illustrated by: David Soman
Agent Lion. 2020. Picture Book.
When Ms. Flamingo’s beloved cat goes missing, gumshoe detective Agent Lion is on the case! Agent Lion, unfortunately, is more than a bit incompetent and easily gets distracted by donuts, popcorn, and pigeons as he tries his best figure out where Fluffy could have gone. His theories may be wild and his questions may be off-topic, but Agent Lion ultimately discovers that the object of the investigation might be hiding right under his nose. Kids will love watching this lovable lion bumble his way to the bottom of this missing cat mystery.
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Lazar, Tara
Illustrated by: Ross MacDonald
The Upper Case: Trouble in Capital City. 2019. Picture Book.
This sequel to 7 Ate 9 tells the story of the aptly named Private I, a large, pink, anthropomorphous letter I, who must tackle his toughest case yet: The mystery of the missing capital letters. This wordplay-filled romp follows Private I as he figures out what–or who–caused these letters to disappear overnight. His adventures take him all throughout Capital City, from his favorite restaurant Café Uno to the seedier part of town known as Cursive Loop. Check out this book for yourself to figure out where the letters have gone and what particular punctuation mark might be to blame.
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Pintonato, Camilla
Illustrated by: Debbie Bibo
Detective Mole. 2021. Picture Book.
This headstrong investigator may wear a trench coat and a deerstalker cap, but don’t be fooled, he isn’t Sherlock Holmes…he’s Detective Mole! Detective Mole, real name Oscar, is on the case when a local squirrel’s grandfather goes missing, but readers will soon find that unraveling a mystery is more challenging than Oscar claims. While Oscar may be skilled with his nose, he’s less skilled with details and avoiding distractions, and readers will notice Oscar misses more than a few clues as he sets out on his search. Find out if Oscar has what it takes to be a detective in this humorous read, translated from the original Italian.
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Juvenile Fiction

Guterson, Ben
Winterhouse. 2018. Juvenile Fiction.
11-year-old Elizabeth has been living with her cold and uncaring aunt and uncle ever since her parents’ death, but a promise of a free cruise prompts her caretakers to drop Elizabeth off at the whimsical Winterhouse hotel for the winter season. While there, Elizabeth makes friends with the puzzle-loving Freddy, and the duo eventually begins investigating a strange book that may or may not hold clues into the hotel’s mysterious past – and even Elizabeth’s own. This eerie story takes place over the winter holidays, making it a perfect snowed-in read. Readers who are intrigued by Elizabeth’s adventures will be glad to hear that the book has two sequels, The Secrets of Winterhouse and The Winterhouse Mysteries, also available in SSHEL’s S-Collection.
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Magoon, Kekla
Chester Keene Cracks the Code. 2022. Juvenile Fiction.
Sixth grader Chester has never met his father, but when a mysterious envelope filled with puzzle pieces is left at his doorstep, Chester takes it as a sign that his dad is reaching out to him in code. If Chester’s dad is a spy, then it follows that Chester should train to become one, too! Surprisingly, the missing pieces of the puzzle are in the hands of Chester’s classmate Skye, and the two kids soon put their code-cracking and scavenger-hunting skills to the test in this complex but feel-good story full of friendship, family, and riddles.
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Young, Karen Romano
Illustrated by: Jessixa Bagley
A Girl, A Raccoon, and the Midnight Moon. 2019. Juvenile Fiction.
Pearl, the daughter of a New York librarian, can’t imagine a world without the library, but her favorite place faces an existential threat from real estate developers who want to turn it into an apartment building. To make matters worse, the head of the statue that stands in the library’s courtyard goes missing. Luckily, Pearl is determined to catch the vandal and save the library for the good of the community. Readers will learn about complex themes such as gentrification, homelessness, and underfunded social services, but the story is lightened up with Pearl’s plucky, can-do attitude…and the magical raccoons that live in the library’s basement.
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Historical Fiction

Dowell, Frances O’Roark
Dovey Coe. 2000. Juvenile Historical Fiction.
The year is 1928, and 12-year-old Dovey Coe, born and raised in the mountains of North Carolina, lives a peaceful life with her siblings and father in the small town of Indian Creek. A series of disastrous events results in Dovey being wrongfully accused of murder. Dovey’s lawyer is no help, and without anywhere else to turn, she sets out to prove her own innocence. Secrets, lies, and motives are revealed in this dark mystery set in the American South, which won the 2001 Edgar Award for Best Children’s Mystery.
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Hopkinson, Deborah
The Plot to Kill a Queen: A Royal Spy Story in Three Acts. 2023. Juvenile Historical Fiction.
13-year-old Emilia Bassano is an aspiring writer who spends her days composing one-act plays and sneaking into theater performances. When one of Emilia’s escapades goes awry, she stumbles her way into a job gathering intelligence for the spymaster of Queen Elizabeth herself. As the title suggests, Emilia soon discovers a plot to kill the Queen and is dispatched to stop it. Readers will appreciate the author’s extensive knowledge of the Elizabethan era and the numerous cameos of historical figures, including Emilia herself, who is actually a young version of the English poet more commonly known as Emilia Lanier.
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Rundberg, Johan
The Night Raven. 2023. Juvenile Historical Fiction.
In this atmospheric mystery, gruff and aged detective Valdemar Hoff is investigating a strange murder in 1880 Stockholm. His search leads him to the Public Children’s Home, where a baby was recently surrendered under mysterious circumstances. At the orphanage, Hoff encounters the bright and scrappy Mika, a 12-year-old girl who has long been honing her observation skills to survive. Hoff decides to enlist Mika’s help in his investigation, which appears to be connected to the notorious Night Raven murders. There’s just one problem: The Night Raven was supposedly executed the year prior. This bleak mystery is brightened by the touching relationship between Hoff and Mika, and the snowy setting of 19th-century Sweden makes this a perfect winter read. Translated from the original Swedish.
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MG

America Decides: Elections, Voting, and Democracy

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Every four years, Americans get to cast their ballots and decide who should be the next president of the United States. Election Day this year falls on November 5th, and as children watch the adults in their life travel to their local polling stations or mail in their ballots with their pick for president, they are sure to have lots of questions about elections, voting, and democracy. This month’s S-Collection blog features books that explore democracy and voting rights in America through both fiction and nonfiction texts. The picture book section features books that illuminate the history of voting rights and its continued importance, while the juvenile chapter book section explores elections, voting, and civil justice through the eyes of fictional kids just trying to make it through the school day. Finally, the juvenile nonfiction section expands upon the history of democracy and voting rights in America, with a focus on how far we have come and how much father we still must go. Whether your reader wants to read pictures books, chapter books, or longer-form nonfiction books to explore the history of Americans’ trips to the polls, you can find it all in the SSHEL S-Collection!

Picture Books

Duster, Michelle
Illustrated by: Laura Freeman
Ida B. Wells, Voice of Truth: Educator, Feminist, and Anti-Lynching Civil Rights Leader. 2022. Picture Book.
No discussion of voting rights history is complete without exploring how racial discrimination marred the women’s suffrage movement and was confronted by trailblazers such as the inspiring Ida B. Wells. This narrative biography of Wells, written by her great-granddaughter, reveals how African American women played an important role in the womens movement from the very beginning. Young readers will be amazed by the story of this civil rights leader, feminist, and co-founder of the NAACP who stood up for social justice and helped shaped American democracy.
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MacLeod, Elizabeth
Illustrated by: Emily Chu
Get Out and Vote: How You Can Shape the Future. 2023. Picture Book.
In this nonfiction picture book, author Elizabeth MacLeod explores the (sometimes strange) history of democracy and voting all around the world and particularly in America. Through accessible language and colorful illustrations, readers will be introduced to a variety of complex topics in the world of voting rights, including accessible ballots, the voting process, and voter suppression. The message about how your vote can help change the future shines throughout this informative and engaging read.
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Shulman, Mark
Illustrated by: Serge Bloch
I Voted: Making a Choice Makes a Difference. 2020. Picture Book.
In this book about the importance of making your voice heard through voting, author Mark Shulman describes all the factors that go into casting a ballot, from researching candidates to watching debates to talking with others in your community. Simple descriptions of the government branches and voting mechanics add further depth to this informational book. Shulman also encourages grown-ups to bring the kids in their lives with them when they go to cast their ballot in November to introduce them to the power of doing your civic duty.
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Juvenile Fiction

Beaty, Andrea
Sofia Valdez and the Vanishing Vote. 2022. Juvenile Fiction.
Sofia Valdez and her classmates have a difficult choice to make: Should their class pet be a turtle or a bird? There is no better student to organize this important election than Sofia herself, who was first introduced in the picture book Sofia Valdez, Future Prez. When the tie-breaking ballot in the election goes missing, however, Sofia’s skills are put to the test. This chapter book expands on Sofia’s story as she and her classmates learn about voting, journalism, and campaigning in this fourth installment of the Questioneers series.
Available online

Sales, Leila
Illustrated by: Kim Balacuit
The Campaign. 2020. Juvenile Fiction.
Seventh-grader Maddie Polanksy is looking forward to staying out of the spotlight throughout her middle school career. After all, while she doesn’t have many friends, she has her art class with Mr. Xian to look forward to each day, and that’s all she really needs! However, when Maddie realizes that unopposed mayoral candidate Lucinda Burghart is planning to cut funding for arts education when she wins office, Maddie decides it’s time to advocate for what she believes is right. After convincing her babysitter Janet to run for mayor as Lucinda’s only opposition, Maddie learns about democracy, campaigning, and activism in this lighthearted yet suspenseful juvenile chapter book.
Available online

Weaver, Lila Quintero
My Year in the Middle. 2018. Juvenile Fiction.
This book transports readers back to 1970s Alabama, where sixth grader Lu Olivera is struggling to find her place in the budding civil rights and desegregation movements. Lu, a first-generation immigrant whose parents are from Argentina, finds herself “in the middle” as some students in her class stick to the status quo and while others bravely campaign for change. The backdrop of George Wallace’s 1970 reelection campaign, as well as how civil rights supporters have always had a powerful role in the history of voting and democracy in America, adds context and historical insights to this touching story of a young activist finding her voice.
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Juvenile Nonfiction

Levinson, Cynthia, and Levinson, Sanford
Fault Lines in the Constitution, the Graphic Novel: The Framers, Their Fights, and the Flaws that Affect Us Today. 2020. Juvenile Nonfiction.
The U.S. Constitution was certainly an impactful historical text, but was it a perfect one? In Fault Lines in the Constitution, authors Cynthia and Sanford Levinson bring light to the various issues embedded in this document through both a historical and present-day lens. Through informative text and illustrated infographics, readers will begin to learn what flaws exist in the Constitution and how there is potential to change it for the better – after all, the Constitution’s own authors designed it to be ever-evolving. The book is made even more engaging by its graphic novel format. Tune in to figure out what letter grade Cynthia and Sanford ultimately give this important historical document…it could be lower than you might think.
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Miller, Marilyn and Scordato, Ellen
Illustrated by: Mary Kate McDevitt
Words that Built a Nation: Voices of Democracy that have Shaped America’s History. 2018. Juvenile Nonfiction.
This collection, updated from the original 1999 version, compiles the voices of dozens of civil rights advocates, U.S. government officials, and other powerful figures who played a large part in shaping America’s history. Essays and speeches from notable people such as Barack Obama, Shirley Chisholm, Red Cloud, Frederick Douglass, César Chávez, and more are placed alongside important American documents such as Supreme Court decisions. Each first-hand entry is accompanied by illustrations and commentary that add context and nuance to these foundational documents that have changed American politics forever.
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Rubin, Susan Goldman
Give Us The Vote!: Over 200 Years of Fighting for the Ballot. 2020. Juvenile Nonfiction.
While many may assume that the struggle for voting rights and universal suffrage are in America’s past, author Susan Goldman Rubin’s book shows that this is far from the truth. In fact, the fight for the right to vote continues to this day. Modern-day voter suppression in realms such as gerrymandering, as well as the often-untold history of suffrage movements in the African American and Native American communities, are explored in depth in this illuminating book that is sure to interest anyone who wants to learn more about democracy and elections this November.
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Extra-Terrestrials: Our Extra-Fun October Booklist

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With both International Observe the Moon Night (October 1st) and World Space Week (October 4th-10th) in October, there isn’t a better month to look up and wonder…is there anyone else out there? This month’s S-Collection blog features books about aliens, UFOs, and other intergalactic mysteries that are sure to delight and intrigue any young reader. The aliens in the picture books and middle grade fiction books presented here tend to be friendly, lovable, and eager to learn about life on Earth, even if they make a few mistakes along the way. However, if your reader is more interested in getting the facts straight, they might find what they’re looking for in the juvenile nonfiction selection. These books take a deep dive into space exploration and what proof–if any–scientists have found for alien life. Whether you’re looking for laughs or for answers, the S-Collection has what you need to investigate aliens this October!

Picture Books

Beckmeyer, Drew
The First Week of School. 2024. Picture Book.
The first week of school is tough enough without an unexpected alien visitor! In this elaborate and colorful picture book, we follow multiple students, all with their own obstacles to overcome, as they navigate the wild world of elementary school under the watchful eye of the class’s bearded dragon, Pat. However, one of them isn’t a student–they’re “Nobody,” a blue, well-dressed alien with one large green eye as their only facial feature. Nobody and the students, as well as their teacher and class pet, learn, grow, and deal with their worries during their eventful first week at school. Readers will be shocked at the surprise ending, which won’t be spoiled here–check it out for yourself!
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Biedrzycki, David
Invasion of the Unicorns. 2021. Picture Book.
Some aliens are spooky, slimy, and all-out scary, and some just happen to look exactly like a plush stuffed unicorn. This is the case with Bubble07, who has been sent to Earth to prepare for the upcoming unicorn invasion! However, life on Earth is a bit sweeter than Bubble07 thought it would be. During the days they spend spying on their adoptive family, Bubble07 gets to experience many exciting things, from delicious desserts to changing seasons to birthday celebrations. In the end, this sneaky unicorn has a different idea for what their species should do on Earth…and it involves a little less invading, and a little more partying!
Q. SE. B475in

Sauer, Tammi
Illustrated by: Goro Fujita
Your Alien. 2015. Picture Book.
In this heartwarming story, told in the unique 2nd-person, a young boy happens to become the guardian of a tiny green alien that has been stranded on Earth. Although the two have fun together as they play, learn, and amaze the boy’s classmates, it doesn’t prevent the alien from getting homesick and lonely when the sun sets. It turns out that this alien, just like the boy, is a child, and they greatly miss their family up in space. Luckily, the young boy has an idea to get the family’s attention. The beautiful art style perfectly complements this tale about friendship and returning home.
Q. SE. Sa857y

Middle Grade

Brennan, Megan
Kira and the (Maybe) Space Princess. 2024. Middle Grade.
In this lively and colorful graphic novel, Kira, a 7th-grade student at the Neo-Earth Junior High, learns it’s important to be careful what you wish for. After her arch-nemesis becomes a premier Magical Girl in their fantasy high school, Kira decides it’s time to find a way to become a Magical Girl herself. One wish on a shooting star later, and the universe sends her what she asked for…in the form of a cat-like self-proclaimed space princess named Catacorn. Unfortunately, Catacorn has her own plans for her time at Neo-Earth Junior High, and Kira soon finds herself locked in a battle against evil of galactic proportions.
S.741.5973 B7508maki

Hale, Nathan
Apocalypse Taco. 2019. Middle Grade.
When middle-school twins Axl and Ivan accompany their high school friend Sid to pick up food from Taco Bear one late evening, no one expects it to turn into the adventure of a lifetime. Before they know it, the tacos turn into tiny monsters, and the town they know and love becomes nothing more than an ooey gooey replica. It turns out that they have been transported to an alien dimension intent on copying not only the world but its inhabitants. As spooky as this is, the book manages to remain lighthearted and funny as the kids fight through the apocalypse to find their way back home.
S.741.5973 H134ap

Van Eekhout, Greg
Weird Kid. 2021. Middle Grade.
Jake may look like any other boy at his middle school, but he has a rather surprising secret: he’s not quite human. Much like the comic book heroes that he loves so much, Jake is an alien stranded on Earth, doing his best to fit in, make friends, and, of course, control his shapeshifting. When Jake meets Agnes, who loves comic books just as much as him, he gains a friend…and a partner to help him investigate the mysteries in his town. Jake and Agnes soon find themselves wrapped up in an intergalactic adventure that will connect Jake not only to his roots as an alien but to his found family on Earth.
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Juvenile Nonfiction

Fleming, Candace
Crash from Outer Space: Unraveling the Mystery of Flying Saucers, Alien Beings, and Roswell. 2022. Juvenile Nonfiction.
Renowned children’s author Candace Fleming sheds light on the topic of extraterrestrial life in this engaging collection, which opens by exploring the infamous UFO crash in Roswell, New Mexico. After explaining the truth surrounding this incident, Fleming moves on to dozens of more recent UFO and alien sightings, some which were proven to be false and others that are still left unsolved. The book has a scrapbook-like design, including tons of photographs, first-hand sources such as newspapers, and fantastical illustrations, making this an exciting and informative read.
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Gifford, Clive.
Illustrated by: Scoular Anderson.
How to Meet Aliens. 2001. Juvenile Nonfiction.
In this installment of Clive Gifford’s “How To” series, curious readers will learn everything they need to know to prepare for their first encounter with an alien. Gifford’s simple steps, accompanied by colorful and engaging pictures, let young scientists know the history of alien sightings and where best to search for extraterrestrial life. Clive is sure to point out that a lot of stories about aliens and UFOs are far from the truth. Separating fiction from fact is a big part of this engaging guide, and the tone perfectly fluctuates from informative to silly throughout.
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Morancy, Joalda
Illustrated by: Amy Grimes
Aliens: Join the Scientists Searching Space for Extraterrestrial Life. 2022. Juvenile Nonfiction.
This fascinating book tackles all the tough questions that kids may have about life on other planets, viewing each hypothesis and theory, no matter how strange, with a critical and scientific lens. There are, after all, real scientists taking the possibility of extraterrestrial life very seriously, carefully scouring each corner of the universe for any signs of life beyond Earth. Kids will be amazed by these scientists’ stories and the evidence they have gathered so far. The vibrant artwork showcases the beauty of space and will draw any reader in who has big questions about our even bigger universe.
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