Fresh Reads, Honest reviews, Educator-approved
Thelma the Unicorn is a surprisingly sweet picture book with a powerful message for young children: love who you are. Thelma’s journey from ordinary pony to sparkling celebrity teaches kids that they don’t need to change to find happiness. This book is an excellent tool for promoting self-acceptance and embracing authenticity in the classroom.
Beneath is a tender picture book that beautifully explores the idea that there is always more under the surface of what we see, in both nature and people. A boy and his grandpa realize that “beneath what is different is what’s the same.” This story is a great classroom addition for discussing emotions, empathy, and the hidden layers of our inner lives.
A sweet graphic novel about first love and the strain it can place on friendships. Amber and Nico’s journey takes a surreal turn that reveals the growing distance between them in unexpected ways.
The Dark We Know is a debut novel that offers a mysterious and pensive look at the cyclical nature of trauma, wrapped in a spooky horror package. While the excellent premise—an art student confronting a supernatural entity linked to her past—will appeal to fans of Hill House, the book suffers from vague backstories and a lack of character development.
The Wilderness of Girls starts strong with an intriguing mix of mystery, identity, and survival. Reviewer Tami Rigling notes that while the opening captivates, the story becomes confusing as major details go unresolved, especially the question of who Mother is. Simple black and white illustrations add atmosphere but not clarity. With its emotional intensity and ambiguous ending, this book may appeal to readers who enjoy darker, unresolved stories but may frustrate others.