Fresh Reads, Honest reviews, Educator-approved
Ash, a nonbinary teen struggling to find their place in the world, decides to escape society’s noise and expectations by living off the grid in the California wilderness. Inspired by their late grandfather’s dream of building a hidden cabin, Ash sets out alone with their dog, hoping to reconnect with nature and find purpose.
In this latest Dog Man adventure, Big Jim and his grumpy grandfather escape from cat jail only to stumble into a superhero party gone wrong. Their fellow heroes have been poisoned by a sleeping potion from UFOs known as the Space Cuties, who plan to take over the world.
Selznick’s Wonderstruck is a beautifully illustrated exploration of connection, identity, and resilience. Told through both prose and breathtaking pencil drawings, the dual timelines of Ben and Rose converge in a moving, unexpected way. Each character’s search for belonging feels heartfelt and timeless. This book invites readers to slow down, notice details, and experience the wonder of storytelling in both words and images.
Will Chambers is the only “round kid” in a school full of thin ones. He hides behind oversized hoodies and avoids the cafeteria, struggling with shame and self-doubt. When a cruel comment in fourth grade triggers years of pain, Will begins to spiral, using food restriction to cope.
Teen Josie Black, known as J.B., begins noticing strange memory lapses that her mother dismisses as stress. When she investigates, J.B. uncovers a shocking secret—she has been unknowingly trained as a spy by her mother and a covert organization.