From the very first moment you meet, the bond between a parent and child is truly unbreakable. This touching and heartfelt picture book is a beautiful celebration of the endless love that surrounds you every single day.
With gentle, rhyming words, the story captures all the wonderful moments of growing up, from your sparkling aura and crooked grin to the warm embraces that make everything better. Whether you are having a silly afternoon filled with laughter or facing a difficult day, this love is always there to lift you up and hold you close. The comforting message and stunning illustrations make this the perfect story to read together before bed. You will feel safe, cherished, and reminded that no matter how big you grow, you will always be someone's number one blessing.
Take a journey around the world and discover the beautiful thread that connects us all! In this thoughtful and vibrant book, you will meet children who live in different countries, speak different languages, and have homes that look entirely unlike yours. You might notice that their schools, their clothes, and even their favorite foods are brand new to you.
But as you look closer, you will realize something amazing. No matter how far apart we live or how different our daily lives might seem, we all share the same feelings inside. We all smile when we are happy, we all cry when we are hurt, and we all share the same joy and love. This beautifully illustrated exploration of our global community will show you that underneath it all, people everywhere are just like you.
60 Pages
The Hardy Boys
The Secret of the Old Mill
Counterfeit bills are turning up around Bayport, and Frank and Joe Hardy are determined to find where the fake money is coming from. The clues point toward an old mill outside town, a place filled with suspicious activity, hidden danger, and warnings meant to scare the boys away.
As the brothers investigate, the case grows bigger than a simple money scheme. Their father is working on a separate confidential matter, and the two mysteries may be connected in ways no one expects. Frank and Joe must follow every clue carefully, even when the trail leads them into risky traps and dark passageways.
The Secret of the Old Mill is a classic Hardy Boys mystery with counterfeiters, secret places, and fast-moving detective work. It is a strong pick for readers who enjoy old-fashioned adventure, brother teamwork, and mysteries that reward sharp observation.
228 Pages
Matteo Alacrán
The House of the Scorpion
Matteo Alacran was not born. He was harvested. His DNA comes from El Patron, the ruthless drug lord who rules the country of Opium with an iron fist. To most of the people on the Alacran estate, Matt is a monster, a dirty clone meant only to serve a dark purpose. But to El Patron, Matt is the guarantee of eternal life.
As Matt grows up in the shadow of the poppy fields, he slowly uncovers the horrifying reality of his existence. Surrounded by a dangerous army of bodyguards, power-hungry family members, and mindless workers, Matt realizes that escape is his only chance at survival.
But breaking free from the only home he has ever known is just the beginning of a terrifying journey. He must discover what it truly means to be human in a world that sees him as a beast. This gripping, award-winning science fiction thriller explores the true cost of power and the unbreakable strength of the human spirit.
432 Pages
Matteo Alacrán
The Lord of Opium
Fourteen-year-old Matt Alacran has suddenly inherited a terrifying legacy. As the clone of the ruthless drug lord El Patron, Matt is now the undisputed ruler of Opium, a massive territory on the border of the United States and Mexico.
While the rest of the world has been devastated by ecological disaster, Opium is a thriving, pristine oasis. But the country's wealth relies on an army of mindless, microchipped workers programmed to harvest the crops. Matt desperately wants to break this cycle of violence and restore humanity to his people, but he is surrounded by traitors, dangerous cartels, and a haunting voice in his own mind.
Struggling to do the right thing in a world built on cruelty, Matt must decide if he is truly his own person, or if his destiny was predetermined by his genes. This electrifying sequel delivers a brilliant mix of science fiction, political suspense, and heart-wrenching choices.
432 Pages
Fleeing for his life across the dangerous landscape of 1502 Italy, a young boy named Matteo is suddenly pulled from a raging river. His rescuers are not ordinary travelers, but the companions of the legendary genius Leonardo da Vinci.
Thrilled to be taken into the great Maestro's household, Matteo travels at da Vinci's side as he paints magnificent frescos and experiments with human flight. But their journey is far from safe. Da Vinci is working for the cruel and ruthless warlord Cesare Borgia, and a bloody trail of murder, deceit, and revenge follows them from city to city.
Worse yet, Matteo is hiding a life-changing secret of his own. He carries an object that both the powerful Borgia and Medici families would kill to obtain. As enemies close in from all sides, Matteo must decide who to trust before his hidden truth is finally forced into the light.
484 Pages
High above the bustling streets of Paris, a secret world exists among the chimney pots. Matteo and Mercedes belong to the rooftoppers, a daring gang of children who eat, sleep, and tumble across the city skyline, entirely unseen by the adults below. But their sky-high existence takes a thrilling turn when they stumble into a wild hunt for hidden treasure.
You will race alongside them as they tear across the perilous rooftops, piecing together clues while desperately trying to stay one step ahead of a ruthless enemy. This adversary is determined to destroy everything the rooftoppers hold dear, turning their familiar skyline into a dangerous battleground. Every leap across the Parisian sky is filled with heart-pounding suspense and the fierce bond of friendship. Katherine Rundell delivers a breathtaking adventure filled with courage, loyalty, and the magic of finding a family in the most unexpected of places.
The only memory Sophie has of her mother is a desperate wave for help before their ship sank into the English Channel. Found floating in a cello case as a baby, Sophie has been raised by an eccentric and loving guardian, Charles, who taught her to never ignore a possibility.
When ruthless authorities threaten to separate them and send twelve year old Sophie to an orphanage, they take a daring risk and flee to the bustling streets of Paris. Armed with a single clue about a mysterious cello maker, Sophie refuses to give up hope of finding her long lost mother. Her search leads her far above the cobblestones, where she befriends Matteo and a fearless band of urchins known as the rooftoppers. Together, they navigate a dangerous, hidden city among the chimney pots and starlight. You will hold your breath as Sophie scales dizzying heights, racing against time and the authorities in an unforgettable quest for family, freedom, and the extraordinary.
304 Pages
Look down at a tiny ant carrying a crumb, and then look way up at the stars shining in the night sky. Sometimes you might feel small, or lost, or like you are at the very bottom of the barrel. But whether you are the first to finish a race or the last to cross the line, there is a space in this world that only you can fill. This gentle and bright story invites you to see the world from many different points of view. You will soar with birds, swim with fishes, and walk alongside kids just like you. Through beautiful, glowing illustrations, you will discover how everything and everyone is connected. It is a warm and comforting reminder that no matter who you are or where you go, your presence is important.
40 Pages
Habibi is usually a very dependable camel. Every day, he calmly walks in a circle, giving happy children rides. But today is different! Suddenly, Habibi takes off running as fast as he can right through the middle of the busy bazaar. His owner, Ahmed, is completely shocked and chases after him, trying to figure out what could possibly be wrong. Why is Habibi in such a hurry, and where is he trying to go? Join Ahmed on this fast-paced chase through the crowded marketplace as he tries to solve the mystery of his runaway camel. This funny and surprising story will keep you guessing until Habibi finally reveals exactly what is on his mind!
32 Pages
What Is?
What Is Black Lives Matter?
A hashtag can begin with just a few words, but sometimes those words carry the weight of history.
What Is Black Lives Matter? introduces readers to the movement that grew after the killing of Trayvon Martin and became a powerful call for justice, accountability, and change. Written for middle-grade readers, the book explains how people used social media, peaceful protest, and public action to speak out against police brutality and racial violence.
You will learn how the phrase Black Lives Matter spread from a message of grief and anger into an international movement, why it gained renewed attention after the murder of George Floyd, and how activists have pushed for reform. This clear, accessible nonfiction book helps young readers understand a major social justice movement and the history behind it.
57 Pages
Step into a chilling winter day where the boundaries of reason and reality begin to blur. When Old Mrs. Campbell storms into the Franklins' general store, she loudly complains about the devilish nature of her daughter-in-law, Alicia. This outburst deeply disturbs Mrs. Franklin, especially since everyone else in town considers Alicia to be practically saintly. After Mrs. Campbell leaves in a huff, Mrs. Franklin assumes the strange drama is over for the day. But late in the night, the phone rings with an urgent, frantic demand for help. Blending elements of dark fantasy and creeping horror, this gripping short story tests the limits of faith, family, and the unknown. As the evening unfolds, two women must face a terrifying situation that proves how, in times of great danger, even strangers can come together to help one another. Enjoy this masterful tale from an award-winning author, offering a suspenseful glimpse into the shadows of human nature and the unexpected courage found in the dark.
20 Pages
All Because You Matter
All Because You Matter
You always have mattered, and you always will matter. This profound and beautiful picture book reads as a soaring anthem of love from parents to their children.
Through rhythmic, poetic language, a young boy is reminded of his deep, inherent worth. As he navigates the world, he is wrapped in the reassuring message that his life holds incredible meaning. The story gently addresses the realities of the world while wrapping the child in a protective blanket of history, heritage, and unshakable family pride.
Paired with stunning, rich illustrations, this love letter to Black and brown children provides a much-needed mirror of excellence. It is the perfect read-aloud to remind every child that they are brilliant, they are loved, and they matter beyond measure.
40 Pages
Starting at a new school can feel incredibly scary, especially when you are trying to figure out exactly where you fit in. If you have ever worried about making friends or felt anxious about being the new kid, this heartwarming story is just for you! Follow a spirited young girl as she navigates the ups and downs of a brand-new classroom. At first, she tries hard to blend in, but she soon discovers that the very best way to make real friends is to simply be her wonderful, unique self. Written by award-winning actress Taraji P. Henson, this uplifting book celebrates kindness, empathy, and the courage it takes to show the world who you truly are. Packed with colorful illustrations and an important message about mental health and self-love, this story will inspire you to embrace your quirks and be a fantastic friend—no matter what!
Winning can feel amazing. Losing can feel like everything has fallen apart. In Shaken: Young Reader's Edition, Tim Tebow speaks directly to young readers who are trying to understand who they are when life changes, disappointments come, or pressure makes them question their worth.
Drawing from his experiences in football, professional sports, faith, and personal challenges, Tebow explores what it means to build an identity on God rather than on success, failure, popularity, or other people's opinions. The book also points to biblical examples and real people whose lives show courage, purpose, and trust.
Written for young Christians, this nonfiction book encourages readers to face fear, handle insecurity, recognize their gifts, and stand firm when circumstances are uncertain. It is especially suited for tweens and teens thinking seriously about faith, confidence, and purpose.
210 Pages
In 2020, the entire world watched as history was made in the streets. The powerful rallying cry of Black Lives Matter captured global attention, motivating thousands of people from all backgrounds to demand major progressive social reform. But where did this monumental movement actually begin?
Call and Response explores the deep, foundational history of the Black Lives Matter movement through striking photographs, compelling quotes, and stunning visual timelines. You will learn about the founders of the movement, Alicia Garza, Patrisse Cullors, and Opal Tometi, and explore the specific watershed moments that challenged everyday citizens to take urgent action. Discover how a simple online hashtag evolved into a worldwide call for justice, rooted in the long-standing call-and-response tradition of the Black community.
This essential history shows how protest has always been a fundamental tool within American democracy. By following the dedicated activists and organizers on their difficult journeys, you will gain a concrete understanding of how marches, rallies, and demonstrations hold the incredible power to force meaningful, lasting change.
165 Pages
Hot Wheels Let's Race
Catch that Tire!
Welcome to the most exciting race camp in the world! You are invited to join the fun as eager kids arrive at camp, ready to jump behind the wheel of some truly amazing vehicles. At this special camp, the young drivers get the chance to test out all sorts of incredible cars and learn what it takes to be a real racer.
As the engines rev and the tires spin, the kids must decide which awesome car they want to choose for the big events. It is a fast-paced adventure full of zooming action and thrilling choices. You will feel the rush of the track as these young racers figure out how to handle the speed.
Perfect for children just learning to read on their own, this action-packed story will keep you turning the pages. Start your engines and get ready to catch that tire before it rolls away!
17 Pages
Polly Pocket
Tiny Power
A broken necklace is about to change Polly's life forever. When Polly decides to fix her grandmother's special locket, she unlocks a secret that has been hidden in her family for years. With the locket glowing, she discovers she has the incredible power to shrink down to pocket size.
Suddenly, her ordinary bedroom becomes a massive playground filled with giant obstacles and thrilling new possibilities. You will join Polly as she learns how to use her amazing tiny power to explore places she never could before and help her friends in totally unexpected ways.
Being small brings huge surprises and a lot of fun. Step into a world where the smallest heroes have the biggest adventures, and find out what happens when you view the world from a tiny perspective.
17 Pages
Explorer
The Mystery Boxes
Collected by
Kazu Kibuishi
●
With
Emily Carroll, Dave Roman, Raina Telgemeier, Jason Caffoe, Rad Sechrist, Stuart Livingston, and Johane Matte
Step through the threshold into seven extraordinary worlds where nothing is exactly as it seems. In this captivating graphic novel anthology, master storyteller Kazu Kibuishi gathers a brilliant team of comic artists to explore a single, irresistible theme: the discovery of a hidden door. You will follow curious heroes as they uncover secrets lurking behind ordinary-looking portals, from a mysterious box that holds unforeseen powers to a doorway that leads straight into a breathtaking magical realm. Each unique story pulls you into a distinct visual universe, blending humor, suspense, and pure imagination. You might find yourself alongside a clever young adventurer solving a complex puzzle or watching a misunderstood creature guard a powerful secret. Every artist brings their signature style to the page, creating a rich tapestry of adventures that will keep you guessing what lies behind the next panel. It is a thrilling, fast-paced collection perfect for readers who love uncovering hidden mysteries and exploring fantastic new dimensions.
Avatar: The Last Airbender
The Lost Adventures
By
Aaron Ehasz, J. Torres, John O'Bryan, Joshua Hamilton, Katie Mattila, May Chan, Rawles Marie Lumumba, Tim Hedrick, Alison Wilgus, and Dave Roman
●
Based on work by
Bryan Konietzko and Michael Dante Dimartino
●
Pictures by
Gurihiru, Joaquim Dos Santos, Johane Matte, Justin Ridge, Reagan Lodge, Tom Mcweeney, Brian Ralph, Corey Lewis, Elsa Garagarza, Ethan Spaulding, and Amy Kim
●
Collected by
Frank Pittarese
Have you ever wondered what happened between your favorite episodes of Avatar: The Last Airbender? This exciting collection dives right into the missing stories you have been waiting to read. Get ready to uncover the biggest secrets of the Four Nations as Aang, Katara, Sokka, Toph, and Zuko embark on thrilling new missions.
Find out exactly who would win in an epic Earthbending showdown between Toph and King Bumi. Discover the hidden secrets of ancient Swordbending, and travel back in time to see Aang and his friend Kuzon hunt for real dragons. Whether the heroes are exploring the Fire Nation or helping the Earth King travel in disguise, these forgotten tales are packed with action, magic, and plenty of laughs. Jump back into the adventure and explore the Avatar world like never before!
226 Pages
All Because You Matter
We Are Here
Your roots are deep, your history is rich, and your future shines incredibly bright. This lyrical and affirming story is a powerful ode to the Black and brown heritage, celebrating the momentous contributions of men and women from the beginning of time.
Through soaring language and breathtaking artwork, readers are guided on a journey of assurance, tenderness, and triumph. It highlights the beauty and excellence within the community, assuring children of the extraordinary legacy from which they come. Every page bursts with love and pride, offering a vital reminder that greatness is already inside you.
This inspirational companion piece celebrates young readers exactly as they are. It serves as a beautiful touchstone for families to share, strengthening children for their triumphant days ahead and inviting them to imagine a world where they continue to make history.
40 Pages
All Because You Matter
Together, United
Alone we are strong, but together we are truly unstoppable. This astounding picture book delivers a powerful declaration of unity, love, and community, reminding readers that we are all part of something much greater than ourselves.
In the profound final installment of this beloved trilogy, young readers are invited to recognize the brilliance they hold as individuals, and the immense power they unlock when their voices join as one. Rhythmic, courageous text pairs perfectly with breathtaking artwork to explore how every person is connected across the world.
It is a beautiful message of optimism and a community touchstone for families and classrooms. By celebrating our shared humanity, this story shows children that the best way to build a brighter, kinder future is to create it hand in hand.
40 Pages
Mateo is bringing home a brand new puppy, and he wants to be the best dog owner ever. Taking care of a squiggly, energetic pet is a big job, but Mateo is ready to use his special purple skills to make sure his new furry friend feels right at home. He asks smart questions about what the puppy needs to eat, works hard to keep the little dog happy, and uses his voice to create a safe space. You get to join Mateo and his good friend Penny as they learn exactly what it takes to welcome a pet into the family. With short sentences and familiar words, you can easily read along as the friends discover the joy of playing together. It is a heartwarming story about taking on new responsibilities, showing kindness to animals, and celebrating the fun of simply being yourself.
33 Pages
Outlaw Saints
Last Canto of the Dead
Mateo and Chela are not just teenagers in love, they are powerful gods in human form. After saving their Brooklyn community and raising their native island of San Madrigal from the ocean depths, they thought the worst was behind them. They were wrong. A heartbreaking prophecy forces the two apart. Mateo is sent back to a divided Brooklyn patrolled by hostile forces, while Chela is trapped on San Madrigal amidst battling creature armies and lurking dangers. They are creators, healers, and destroyers, but the distance between them tests their limits. Dive into this thrilling conclusion where love and divine power collide. You will be on the edge of your seat as Mateo and Chela desperately fight to reunite and save their people from total destruction.
400 Pages
Outlaw Saints
Ballad and Dagger
Mateo and Chela have always lived in a Brooklyn community divided by fierce political rivalries. But when an explosive clash erupts between their neighborhood factions, the two sixteen-year-olds uncover an astonishing secret. They both possess incredible, god-like powers tied to their sunken homeland of San Madrigal. Realizing they are the only ones who can stop a massive disaster, the teens must set aside their family differences and work together. A dangerous political operative is hunting them, eager to weaponize their ancient gifts and unleash absolute terror upon the modern world. Step into a fast-paced urban fantasy full of rich mythology. You will follow Mateo and Chela as they master their new abilities, uncover the tragic history of their ancestors, and fight to reclaim their destiny.
384 Pages
No matter what anyone tells you, I am real. When fifth-grader Max discovers this mysterious note slipped under his keyboard, he knows instantly that his best friend, Josie, wrote it. They have been completely inseparable since kindergarten. But why would Max ever doubt that Josie is real? Before he can ask her, Josie vanishes without a trace, leaving behind only strange whispers about whatnot rules. As Max desperately searches for answers, he uncovers a shocking secret about his world: some kids aren't human at all. They are androids called whatnots, designed to be perfect companions for wealthy children. Now, Max must question everything he thought he knew about his life, his family, and his best friend. Meanwhile, Josie is fighting her own dangerous battle to find her way back to him. Can their bond survive the ultimate test of reality? This thrilling and thought-provoking science fiction adventure explores the true meaning of friendship, the dangers of privilege, and what it actually takes to be human.
255 Pages
You matter in so many incredible ways. Whether you are helping a friend, sharing a loud laugh, giving a warm hug, or simply speaking your mind, the way you express yourself makes the world a better place. But sometimes, especially when you are the new kid in town, it can be hard to remember just how special you are.
Step into a heartwarming story about finding the courage to be exactly who you are. Moving to a new place brings big changes and tricky feelings, but it also opens the door to carving your own unique path. Watch as a new arrival navigates unfamiliar surroundings and learns to embrace their true self.
Discover the joy that comes from celebrating your own individuality and building genuine connections with others. This uplifting tale will remind you that true friendship starts with loving yourself, and that you always belong right where you are.
No matter how tall you grow, how far you travel, or what challenges you face, there is an invisible shield of love that surrounds you every single day. The wind might howl, the rain might pour, and the world might feel overwhelmingly big, but you will never have to face the storm alone.
This beautifully written picture book explores the fierce, unwavering protection of a parent's love. Through stunning illustrations of majestic animals guiding and guarding their young across wild landscapes, the story captures the powerful promise that a parent will always be there to support you. Whether you are taking your first steps or navigating the complicated emotions of growing up, this comforting tale reminds you that you are deeply cherished. It is a timeless, reassuring read that perfectly expresses the unbreakable, lifelong bond between parent and child.
21 Pages
Security is a matter of life and death in a town entirely infested with vampires. When college student Claire Danvers is ordered to repair Morganville's complex protective systems, she quickly realizes this assignment is far more dangerous than studying for midterms. Achieving the impossible and completing the massive technological upgrade seems like a massive victory at first, but the new system triggers a terrifying wave of unintended consequences.
People across town are slowly starting to forget who they are, and even the ancient, immortal vampires are losing their memories. As the mysterious memory wipe escalates into a full-blown epidemic, the fragile peace that keeps Morganville from tearing itself apart begins to crumble. You will follow Claire as she races against time to reverse the damage caused by her own experiment. She must figure out how to pull the plug on the malfunctioning defense grid and save the city, before her own mind fades away entirely.
490 Pages
Step into a space where your feelings matter and you are loved exactly as you are. This beautifully illustrated treasury brings together seventy-five iconic songs from Mister Rogers Neighborhood and The Children's Corner, offering poetry that speaks directly to your everyday experiences. Whether you are navigating the complex emotions of growing up, welcoming a new sibling, or simply exploring the depths of your own imagination, these lyrics offer a gentle and honest companion. You will find words that validate your fears, celebrate your unique qualities, and encourage self-awareness in a world that can often feel overwhelming. Beyond just songs, these pages hold timeless wisdom about kindness, empathy, and the quiet courage it takes to be yourself. Read them as poetry, sing them out loud, or use them as a quiet reflection at the end of a busy day. This collection serves as a comforting reminder that your inner life is rich, important, and worthy of celebration.
Reality television just became a matter of life and death. Six months ago, the hit show The Escape Game was permanently scarred when a contestant was found murdered directly on set. Now, season five has launched, bringing a fresh group of brilliant teens to tackle the trickiest puzzles on television. Among the cryptographers and math geniuses is Sierra, the sister of the murdered contestant. But Sierra has not signed up for fame or prize money. She has infiltrated the cast to find justice. As the cameras roll, you will plunge into a labyrinth of complex escape rooms where the clues point toward a very real killer hiding among them. The stakes escalate rapidly as the contestants realize they are trapped in a deadly conspiracy. To survive the season and outsmart a cold-blooded murderer, they must put their rivalries aside. You will need to keep your wits sharp as you navigate this thrilling, pulse-pounding mystery filled with constant twists and betrayals.
416 Pages
Bone Grace
Bone Crier's Dawn
Love has always been a matter of life and death. Bone Criers have spent centuries ferrying the dead into the afterlife, relying on the immense powers they gain from sacrificing their true loves. But Ailesse, her closest friend Sabine, and her love Bastien are determined to shatter this ancient cycle. They are rewriting the rules of the afterlife, even as the consequences threaten to destroy them all. If Ailesse cannot break the fatal soul bond, she will die. Meanwhile, Sabine struggles to lead her family and control the violent magic raging inside her. As the spirits of the Underworld rise up to claim Bastien's friends, Ailesse is dragged into a dangerous realm of the dead. You must resist the enchanting siren song that seeks to keep you trapped in the shadows forever. To save everyone you care about, you have to break the barrier between the living and the dead before time runs out.
448 Pages
Finding a job during the Great Depression is no laughing matter, unless you are Betty MacDonald. Struggling to keep her family afloat during one of the toughest economic eras in history, Betty relies on the relentless optimism of her fiercely confident sister, Mary. Mary firmly believes that Betty can do absolutely anything, even if Betty has zero actual experience to prove it.
Pushed into a series of wild and completely unsuitable jobs, Betty bluffs her way through positions she is wildly unqualified to hold. Along the way, she crosses paths with a vibrant cast of eccentric bosses, bizarre coworkers, and unforgettable characters. From spectacular workplace failures to unexpected triumphs, Betty's chaotic career path becomes a hilarious masterclass in faking it until you make it.
This witty and warm memoir proves that sometimes, the best way to survive hard times is with a sharp sense of humor and a sister who refuses to let you give up. Dive into a true story packed with resilience, laughter, and the unbreakable bonds of family.
224 Pages
What if your favorite video game suddenly became a matter of life and death? Twelve-year-old Skyler Beam loves gaming, but his digital world turns dangerously real when a mysterious avatar named Neshama traps him inside his favorite game. Certain that Neshama has a specific purpose for him, Skyler recruits his best friend, Ellie Claire, to help him navigate the perilous virtual landscape. But the stakes skyrocket when Ellie Claire experiences a terrifying vision of Skyler's future, a future where he does not survive. With time running out and the line between the real world and the game blurring, Skyler, Ellie Claire, and Skyler's loyal rescue dog, Destiny, must track down Neshama to uncover the truth. But in the world of Ethyr, nothing is as it seems. Packed with high-stakes action, unexpected twists, and deep emotional choices, this gripping adventure will keep you guessing until the very last level. Can Skyler dodge his fate, or is it game over for good?
210 Pages
Ivy, Mateo, and Cal used to be inseparable, but high school has pushed them into completely different worlds. Ivy is a high-strung overachiever reeling from a humiliating student council election loss. Mateo is exhausted from working two jobs to support his struggling family. Cal is the perpetual outsider who just got stood up yet again. When a chance encounter brings the three of them together in the school parking lot, they decide to avoid their miserable lives by ditching class for the day.
Their attempt to relive the glory days of their past friendship barely gets off the ground before they spot another Carlton High student skipping school. On a whim, they follow him, only to stumble directly into the scene of his murder. Suddenly, their harmless day off turns into a deadly nightmare. You will be kept guessing at every turn as it becomes terrifyingly clear that Ivy, Mateo, and Cal all share a hidden connection to the victim, and none of them are telling the whole truth about why they really reconnected.
337 Pages
Teen Titans
Beast Boy
Garfield Logan is running out of time to matter. Growing up in the sleepy town of Eden, Georgia, the seventeen year old with bright green streaks in his hair has spent his entire life blending into the background. With his senior year slipping away, Gar is desperate to impress the social elite at Bull Creek High School, even if his loyal, pizza loving best friends cannot understand his sudden obsession with popularity.
When Gar accepts an outrageous dare, everything shifts. His social status skyrockets overnight, but that is not the only thing changing. He suddenly shoots up six inches, his voice drops, and he realizes he is dramatically stronger and faster than before. At first, it feels like he is finally getting the life he always wanted. Yet maintaining his new status means pushing himself further and taking increasingly dangerous risks to keep his new crowd entertained. As Gar's physical transformations become impossible to ignore, he is forced into a corner. You will watch him grapple with terrifying new abilities and discover that figuring out who you truly are means recognizing the people who liked you before everything changed.
196 Pages
Unconditional love means someone cares about you no matter what you are doing or how you are feeling. Whether you are happily dancing down the street or quietly strolling through a park, you are always surrounded by affection. You might be having a grumpy day where you desperately need a warm hug, or a wonderful day where you want to give out a million kisses. Through snowy afternoons and bright sunny mornings, the people in your life love you exactly the way you are. With vibrant colors and tender scenes, Todd Parr explores all the simple, playful ways that love shows up in your daily routines. You will discover that genuine love never disappears, even when you make mistakes. It is a heartfelt reminder that you are cherished every single day, just for being you.
32 Pages
A Navajo Code Talker's Story
Chester Nez was told his Navajo language and culture did not matter. At boarding school, he was pushed to leave his roots behind. Chester did not forget. Years later, during World War II, the very language he had been told to give up became part of a secret military code the enemy could not break.
This picture-book biography follows Chester from childhood to his service as one of the original Navajo Code Talkers. It shows how language, memory, and identity became sources of strength at a time when the world was at war.
Powerful and accessible, this true story introduces young readers to Native American history, World War II, and a hero whose courage began with holding on to who he was.
35 Pages
Cooper Vega's family moves so often that he is practically invisible no matter where he goes. Now they have relocated to the small town of Stratford, and the new kids do not even try to learn his name. To his classmates, he is just the new guy in the background. Feeling bad about uprooting him once again, his parents buy him a fancy, state-of-the-art smartphone to help him stay connected.
But almost immediately, the brand new device starts glitching out. It buzzes randomly, flashes weird glares across the screen, and then reveals something completely impossible. A person is trapped inside the phone. It is the ghost of a boy named Roderick, who claims he lived during the exact same time as William Shakespeare and had a serious grudge against the famous playwright.
Cooper assumes the phone is simply broken, but he soon realizes he cannot get rid of his haunting companion. Even stranger, the historical ghost actually decides to start helping Cooper navigate his new life. You will laugh as Roderick tries to offer seventeenth-century solutions to twenty-first-century middle school problems, proving that a nobody kid and a cranky ghost might just make the perfect team.
240 Pages
Shoes
Ballet Shoes for Anna
A burning passion cannot be extinguished, no matter how harsh the rules. Anna and her two brothers have lost absolutely everything. After a devastating earthquake destroys their home in Turkey and takes their parents, the siblings are shipped off to England to live with their stern, disapproving uncle and their frail aunt. For Anna, the tragedy is compounded by a devastating new rule. She lives and breathes for ballet, but her strict uncle absolutely forbids her from having anything to do with dancing.
You will feel the intense frustration and determination as Anna tries to survive in a prim, joyless suburban household where her greatest talent is treated like a crime. There is no money for proper lessons, and practicing is strictly forbidden. But her loyal brothers know that Anna is a prodigy, and they refuse to let her dreams die. You will follow the incredibly resourceful siblings as they devise clever, secret schemes to earn money and find a way for Anna to dance. It is a powerful, heartwarming story about fighting against the odds and the unbreakable bonds of siblings who will do anything for each other.
235 Pages
