Fresh Reads, Honest reviews, Educator-approved
BIG is a powerful, Caldecott-winning picture book that explores a child’s journey to self-love amidst societal pressure and bullying. With exquisite illustrations and spare text, this book is essential for teaching children that their unique identity should be celebrated, and that words have the power to both hurt and heal. Highly recommended for all elementary libraries.
A festive enemies to lovers romance set in a mall on the brink of demolition brings unexpected heart and humor. Teens will love the chemistry, family dynamics, and holiday spirit woven through every chapter.
This timely and heartfelt middle grade novel follows a boy determined to help his friend while navigating changes in his own family. It is a compelling story about friendship, justice, and standing up for what is right.
All is Nat Lost delivers a fun and heartfelt adventure as Nat tries to prove her independence on a class trip to Philadelphia. The reviewer notes how the book blends humor, history, and relatable tween struggles as Nat navigates lost phones, scavenger hunts, and big city challenges. With engaging illustrations and a strong sense of place, this graphic novel offers a perfect mix of friendship, adventure, and growing up, making it a great pick for middle grade readers.
Something Like Home is a heartfelt novel in verse that uses its poetic structure to give students a gentle, honest window into the themes of family, belonging, and resilience. This powerful story is a quick, engaging read perfect for sparking deep ELA discussions on character development and poetic structure in grades 4-6.