A Mighty Girl's 2023 Summer Reading List

Merrin and Molly are the best of friends, but there's just one problem: Merrin is a mermaid and Molly is a human! So while they can play all they want on the water, Merrin has never been able to visit Molly at home. Fortunately, once a year, there's a Mermaid Moon, when sea creatures can fly through the air — and Merrin is finally old enough to go. United with her friend on land for the first time, Merrin joins Molly at the Mermaid Moon festival. They eat ice cream, ride a swing in Molly's backyard, and even climb a tree! But when the night comes to an end, Merrin's not sure how to get down... and if she doesn't get back home before the moon sets, the Mermaid Moon's magic will be broken forever. This delightful picture book with its just-suspenseful-enough climax is perfect for anyone who's dreamed of a mermaid friend.

When BFFs Lauren, Emelyn, Myka, and Ruby start volunteering at a local dog shelter, they create a plan to get the older dogs into forever homes — and The Invincible Girls Club is born! The first five books of this beloved, empowering chapter book series is available in this box set. As the friends combat bullying at school, prove that girls belong on the sports field, learn to make a quilt together, and go on a camping trip, they also grow their bonds and discover that they can always rely on one another. This paperback boxed set includes Home Sweet Forever Home, Art with Heart, Back to Nature, Quilting a Legacy, and Recess All-Stars.

As a child, Cecilia Payne thrilled at the "lightning bolt of discovery" that could come when you observed the natural world — and she soon developed a love of astronomy in particular. Although people tried to discourage her from a career in science, she knew she wanted to untangle the mysteries of the universe. Her perseverance took her to the Harvard College Observatory, where she came to a stunning conclusion: stars, and therefore the universe, were primarily made of hydrogen. And although that idea was originally considered impossible, today it's hailed as one of the most important discoveries in astronomy. This gorgeous, lyrical picture book sets Payne's story alongside the birth of a star, celebrating a STEM pioneer and the explosion of discovery that sets curious minds aflame.

The little girl from The Most Magnificent Thing (and her beloved dog!) are back — and this time, she's run into a new problem: a creative block. How can she make something new if there isn't even a single idea in her head? She tries brainstorming, gathering supplies, and even jumping up and down to shake an idea loose. And without ideas filling her brain, she's finding sadness creeping in to fill the gaps. Fortunately, the same perseverance she's already learned will help her get over this block and fill her brain up with ideas again! Best-selling author/illustrator Ashley Spires provides a fun look at one of the most frustrating parts of the creative process in this encouraging picture book.

Maizy adores her grandmother, Jacuzzi, and the pair are as close as can be... or so Maizy thinks. But then a box of vintage Nancy Drew books shows up at her mom's thrift store, addressed to Maizy and at the bottom is a photo of he grandmother and two other women. But Jacuzzi denies she recognizes the picture and even insists the woman is someone else. Inspired by the famous fictional girl detective, Maizy decides that she and her new friends Nell and Cam should investigate the mystery. In the process, she'll discover unexpected truths about the origin of the iconic book series — and about her grandmother, her mother, and herself. This intriguing mystery with its intergenerational plot is a tribute to the beloved character who's inspired generations of girls and women.

Princess Marra is the "spare" third daughter, and she was relieved to be sent to a convent; frankly, she'd rather spend her time making medicines and knitting than being married off to secure political alliances. Her older sister wasn't so fortunate, however, and after years of seeing her suffer in silence at the hands of a cruel and abusive prince, Marra decides that it's up to her to save her sister before it's too late. She knows that she'll need help to pull off such a brazen rescue mission and seeks the aid of a dust-wife, a powerful necromancer with a demonically possessed chicken for a familiar, who agrees to help if Marra can complete three impossible tasks: build a dog out of bones, sew a cloak out of nettles, and catch moonlight in a jar. And doing the impossible is only the beginning of Marra's quest to save her sister, topple a throne, and maybe even find herself along the way.

Every Swift child is brought to the Family Dictionary on the day of their birth and given a name randomly chosen from its pages — a name that's also supposed to define their destiny. For little sister Shenanigan, the assumption that she'll be nothing but trouble is a constant frustration. At a family reunion, Shenanigan is fascinated to meet Cousin Erf, who recently chose their own name... which makes her wonder if her name really does have to define her destiny. And then, someone pushes Arch-Aunt Schadenfreude down the stairs. Shenanigan's determined to crack the case, with the help of her older sisters (if they can all stop arguing) — and perhaps in the process she'll get to define herself. This twisty mystery, full of wordplay and clever clues, is sure to delight middle grade readers.

Azmina has just moved from the city to the country, but she's already met two girls she hopes will become good friends, Willa and Naomi. And when Azmina feels called to explore the forest near her new home, something amazing happens: she transforms into a dragon and gets summoned to a Magic Forest — and so do Willa and Naomi! Guided by its magnificent ruler, the Tree Queen, the girls explore their incredible dragon abilities — including flight, glittery fire, and ferocious roars — and learn about their new responsibility to protect the magic of the forest from the mischievous Shadow Sprites. This fun series opener, full of fantasy, friendship, and dragons, is sure to be a hit with young readers.

When a marauder destroys the underground sanctuary where Eva Nine was raised by the robot Muthr, the twelve-year-old girl is forced to flee aboveground. Eva Nine is searching for other humans; she knows they exist, because of an item she treasures — a scrap of cardboard on which is depicted a young girl, an adult, and a robot, with the strange word, "WondLa." But when she meets others and is introduced to the community of New Attica, she realizes that all is not as it seems.... An innovative series that combines beloved children's literature with a space adventure, and includes an Augmented Reality component, is now available in a tenth anniversary box set that collects The Search for WondLa, A Hero for WondLa, and The Battle for WondLa.

Dory is a little kid with a BIG imagination — and it takes her to exciting and amazing places! This charming early chapter book series gets its own box set with this edition that collects paperback copies of the first four books in the series, Dory Fantasmagory chapter book series. This box set includes paperback editions of Dory Fantasmagory, The Real True Friend, Dory Dory Black Sheep, and Head in the Clouds. Kids can follow along as Dory looks for playmates, meets a like-minded friend, deals with struggles at school, and even gets her first loose tooth! For more books from the series, visit our Dory Fantasmagory Collection.

In sixth-century Merovingian France, two very different women claimed power — and fought one another. Brunhild was married off to Sigebert I as part of an alliance, the culmination of a childhood where she was groomed to help her father cement political power. Fredegund was a low-born slave who caught the eye of Chilperic I, becoming his Queen Consort — and earning the ire of her sister-in-law. In a time when neither could officially be part of noble succession, each woman ruled and commanded... and fought a decades-long civil war against one another. After their deaths, their stories were turned into cautionary tales about the dangers of women in power. At long last, this compelling book by an award-winning author unveils the truth about each and captures a portrait of two women who defied expectation more than 1300 years ago.

Jeanne Villepreux-Power expected to spend her life sewing gowns for French nobles, but when she married a merchant and moved by the sea, she had the chance to indulge her curiosity about nature. She started studying ocean creatures, collecting specimens and filling books with her observations. But the creature she was most fascinated by, the argonaut, was hard to examine: it was shy and would swim away when she approached. If only she could have a piece of the ocean that she could keep at home... and just like that, Villepreux-Power was inspired to build the world's first aquarium, an invention that has helped generations of scientists make new discoveries! Jess Keating, the author of Shark Lady, captures Villepreux-Power's curiosity and innovation with exuberant text that celebrates a STEM pioneer.

18-year-old Deborah Sampson never liked being told what to do — so when the King of England started cracking down on the American colonies, she agreed with the rebels who wanted to form their own nation. But even though she wanted to support the Revolution, she couldn't enlist in the Continental Army as a woman. So Deborah disguised herself as a man, calling herself Robert Shurtliff, and signed up. She was facing the risks of battle as well as the danger of her true identity being discovered, but somehow, she felt more herself than she'd ever been. Author Beth Anderson and illustrator Anne Lambelet tell the remarkable true story of a spirited woman who broke out of the role expected of her and found her own path to serve her country.

After the events of Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas, newlyweds Jack and Sally Skellington are ready to take their thrones as Pumpkin King and Queen — but Sally's uncertain. She adores Jack, but everyone in Halloween Town seems to have ideas of how she should change to be the PERFECT Pumpkin Queen. As she struggles with her new role, Sally accidentally stumbles across a mysterious portal to a long-hidden realm called Dream Town... and something comes through. Now the Sandman is putting all of the residents of Halloween Town under a sleeping spell, and Sally may be the only one able to save the day. This intriguing young adult companion to the hit Tim Burton film follows Sally as she finds the courage to become her own true self.

Agatha Christie was known as the Queen of Mystery, but perhaps she was the greatest mystery of all. Despite her modern behavior and attitudes — surfing in Hawaii, driving fast cars, and writing scintillating stories inspired by the new science of psychology — she presented herself as a humble, retiring lady of leisure, once saying, "Nobody in the world was more inadequate to act the heroine than I was." She also battled severe mental illness to become a worldwide success. Literary and cultural historian Lucy Worsley draws on personal letters and papers to create an authoritative biography of Christie and captures her true role as a pioneer for modern women.

Every year, a girl from 16-year-old Mina's village is sacrificed to the Sea God, in hopes that he will accept one of them as his bride and stop ravaging them with floods and storms. This year, the village has selected Shim Cheong, her brother's Joon's beloved — and Mina's afraid he'll interfere, even though it's a death sentence. So on the night of the sacrifice, she throws herself into the water instead. In the Spirit Realm, she discovers the Red String of Fate is now wrapped around her palm, only to be severed by a mysterious nobleman, Lord Shin. To save her people and herself, Mina will have to draw on unusual new allies to wake the Sea God from his enchanted sleep before her time to survive in the Spirit Realm runs out. Inspired by the Korean folktale "The Tale of Shim Cheong," this feminist fantasy is perfect for fans of Uprooted and Miyazaki’s Spirited Away.

Everyone in the Miller family is excited for the first holiday with the new baby — and Billy is excited that his beloved Uncle Jake is visiting — but for Sal, this holiday season is nothing but a disappointment. The new baby (who doesn't even have a name yet!) is taking all of Mama's attention. People keep calling her "Salamander" even though she HATES that nickname. And now, she's lost the best present Santa got her! Fortunately, with a little good humor and a lot of love, even this tough time can turn out to be a good one. Kevin Henkes, best-selling author of The Year of Billy Miller, turns his eyes on Billy's little sister Sal in this illustrated chapter book that's perfect for young readers.

It's the middle of a hot and boring summer for Clarice Bean: her best friend is away, her sister is mad at her, and nothing fun ever seems to happen. Then Clarice bumps into a dog who won't seem to go home, no matter how much she says "Scram!" Maybe he doesn't have a home to go to? Mum and Dad are away at a wedding so Clarice smuggles him home. She can't keep him a secret from her siblings for long, but soon they're helping her take care of him too. But what will happen when her parents finally come home? This charming story from the beloved illustrated chapter book series celebrates the joy that comes when a pet finds their way into our hearts.

12-year-old Hazel arrives in Southampton ready to sail across the Atlantic — alone. Her father has recently died, and her mother has told Hazel to buy a ticket for the celebrated new ship Titanic, find work in an American factory, and send money back home. Hazel dreams of being a journalist and thinks a story about the Titanic might help her break in... but she discovers she doesn't have enough money for a ticket. So she stows away, and with the help of Charlie, a friendly porter, and Sylvia, a first-class passenger Hazel's age, she begins exploring the ship. There are plenty of secrets to discover... but when disaster strikes, Hazel will need every ounce of her courage and wits to save herself and her new friends. Bestselling historical fiction author Jennifer A. Nielsen has crafted a compelling thriller packed with the best and the worst of the story of the Ship of Dreams.

17-year-old Stella North is honored to represent Britain in Europe's first air race for young pilots in 1937 — especially since she's a refugee from Russia, although she keeps her country of birth concealed. As the only female pilot, she knows she'll have a lot to prove. But then, in the middle of an event that's supposed to promote peace, Stella witnesses two planes fly dangerously close to one another... and one of them plummets into the ocean. Was it a terrible accident, or deliberate murder? Flyers in the competition come from Nazi Germany and Mussolini's Italy, but there's also an anti-fascist from France and a Jew from the Netherlands. Stella doesn't know who to trust as she tries to solve the mystery... and in the current political landscape, can any ally remain an ally for long? The bestselling author of Code Name Verity has created a tense mystery set on the road to the second World War.

For the eight years since her mom died, 11-year-old Ryanna and her dad have spent quiet, structured summers together — most recently, ones including her stepmom. Then, unexpectedly, she gets a letter from her mother's parents. Neither she nor her dad have spoken to them in years, but they're inviting her for a summer at Camp Von Camp in the Poconos. Ryanna decides to go: it might be a chance to untangle why her dad has kept them distant since her mom's death. Over the course of a chaotic summer — filled with FAR more relatives than just her grandparents! — Ryanna finds a real-life treasure map, learns what her mom was like when she was Ryanna's age, and discovers a little bit more about who she is. This delightful summertime adventure is perfect for fans of The Penderwicks.

Everybody thinks Selah is a "good kid": she excels at school and follows the rules... including her mother's rules about hiding her distaste for noises, smells, and touch in public. Holding everything in makes her feel like a dragon in disguise... and one day, her fury explodes and she strikes another student. Suddenly, everyone is treating her differently: her friends avoid her and her school threatens to expel her. In her notebook, she writes poetry: "My feelings are loud. Rude. / BIG. Sometimes / angry. Are those OK in poems?" It's not until she attends a fantasy convention — packed with successful neurodivergent adults who use earplugs, color-coded bracelets, and sensory toys — that she begins to use those poems to advocate for the simple accommodations that would make her life so much easier. This powerful novel in verse is perfect for fans of Counting by 7s.

When Lady Camembert's father dies, she knows she's got a problem: women are not allowed to inherit, and the last thing she wants to do is get married (at least to a man.) So with her faithful servant Feta by her side, she disguises herself as a man and moves to capital as Count Camembert. Cam just wants to blend in, but she's bored to tears until she meets Crown Princess Brie, who also loves fashion but with an activist twist. Cam wants to get to know Brie better, but every encounter risks revealing her secret... This graphic novel, packed with mistaken identities, laugh-out-loud scenarios, and unexpected love (and grilled cheese) is sure to delight teen readers.

By the beginning of World War II, Corrie ten Boom was already a trailblazer: the first female licensed watchmaker in Holland, who spent her off hours running a youth club for girls and helping children with disabilities. But after the Nazis invaded, she and her family made the dangerous decision to defy the Nazis: they transformed their home into the Hiding Place, with a secret room that could conceal Jews and other refugees. Their "watches" all made it out safely — an estimated 800 people — but the ten Booms weren't so lucky: the family was arrested, and everyone but Corrie died in prison or in a concentration camp. Corrie survived, though, and not only told her story, but began an astonishing new mission: teaching people around the world about the power of forgiveness. Bestselling author Larry Loftis has written the first major biography of ten Boom, capturing her inspiring story for a new generation.

Third grade scientist and inventor extraordinaire Ada Lace is trying to solve the mystery of a missing dog! Ada thinks her homemade gadgets and her knack for scientific thinking will allow her to crack the case, while her neighbor Nina has has her own theory about the missing dog (involving alien abduction, of all things.) As Ada and Nina get closer to the solution, though, they'll also discover that opposites can make for the best of friends. This new series from Emily Calandrelli, host of Xploration Outer Space and MIT graduate, provides a scientifically-minded detective series that young readers will love. For more of Ada's adventures, visit our Ada Lace Collection.

Orphan Elisabeth has been raised in one of Austermeer's Great Libraries, where the wardens ensure that magical grimoires — the only thing holding evil beings back from the world — stay protected from the evil sorcerers who would do anything to free them. When she stumbles across the Library's slain director and a freed monster, she takes up the director's sword to defeat it and accidentally implicates herself in the crime. Now she finds herself having to collaborate with Nathaniel Thorn, a notorious sorcerer, and his demonic servant if she wants to save the Libraries and the world. And that challenges everything she knows about sorcerers, the Libraries, and herself. Action-packed and suspenseful, this imaginative fantasy will thrill young adult readers.

Elizabeth Packard's independence and intellect offended her husband — and in 1860, the solution was simple: he had her committed to an insane asylum in Jacksonville, Illinois. Inside the asylum, Elizabeth discovered horrifying conditions — and many more women like her, committed not because they are in need of medical care, but because they defied the men in their lives. When her adult children managed to free her, Elizabeth knew she had to fight back... and she not only won a court case that ensured no women could be imprisoned solely on the word of her husband again, but she also fought for the rights of women and people with mental illness across the country. Kate Moore, author of The Radium Girls, captures a stunning portrait of a woman who fought for both her own freedom and for the rights of millions who couldn't raise their own voices.

The town of Stone-in-the-Glen has suffered multiple disasters that destroyed beloved places like the library and park; they put their trust in the charismatic Mayor, who promises he can save the day. When an Ogress arrives one day and settles in at the outskirts of town, the town becomes suspicious of her immediately, but the fifteen children who live in the Orphan House soon realize that she's full of kindness, sending gifts to the people who need them most. When one of the orphans disappears, though, they'll have to find some way to stop the town from targeting the Ogress — and figure out how to make them see the true villain hiding in Stone-in-the-Glen. Kelly Barnhill, the Newbery Medal winning author of The Girl Who Drank the Moon, has crafted a resonant fantasy about what happens when a community loses its connection — and how generosity and love can help them rediscover it.

As a child, Temple Grandin was different from other children: she didn't speak, and she struggled with meltdowns and sensory overload. Her mother was told to put her in an institution, but she knew her daughter could achieve great things. Supportive family and mentors helped Grandin discover her love of animals and her talent for science and design, and she realized she could use her unique perspective to achieve great things! This chapter book inspired by Chelsea Clinton's best-selling She Persisted series is a powerful introduction to this animal welfare and autism awareness advocate — and to how different perspectives benefit all of us.

It's been years since Merida of DunBroch broke the spell she accidentally placed on her mother, Queen Elinor, and the family's reign has been peaceful ever since. Maybe too peaceful, Merida thinks; she dreams of adventure instead of all this sameness. But when her discontent manifests Feradach, a supernatural creature that roots out stagnation — at any price — only an intervention by another fearsome entity, Cailleach, saves DunBroch... for now. Merida has four seasons to convince her family to change or the kingdom will be destroyed. To save everything she loves, Merida takes her family on epic journeys to inspire them — but perhaps she herself needs to change too. This compelling young adult sequel to the hit movie Brave, written by a critically acclaimed author, follows an older Merida as she has four seasons to save DunBroch — or see it destroyed forever.

Molly McQuirter knows the woods behind her house in Far Flung Falls, Ohio are full of sheer drop-offs that could easily swallow a kid. So at first, when kids start disappearing in the summer of 1983, she assumes they weren't careful enough. But then her little brother Wally gets snatched before her eyes — by some sort of giant metallic monster. Molly's determined to rescue him, and she knows the adults won't help: her mom ran off to Florida two years ago, and her father rarely moves from the couch. With the help of some determined pets and Pink Lightning, her beloved bicycle, Molly starts the chase. Not all is as it seems, however, and when Molly discovers the mastermind behind the robot, she'll make unexpected discoveries what it means to belong. Both funny and heartfelt, this sci-fi adventure is perfect for fans of Stuart Gibbs and James Ponti. Molly's story continues in Molly and the Mutants.

Abby, Emma, and Ollie used to be friends as well as sisters — but not anymore. After months of feuding, their parents send them to Camp Unplugged — a girls' camp in the heart of the Idaho mountains, with no cell phones or internet to reach the outside world — with an ultimatum: by the end of the two weeks, they'd better be getting along again. The sisters don't see any way that could happen, but when they find themselves lost in the wilderness, they have no choice but to lean on one another. They're facing wildfires, predators, and more, without food, training, or supplies. Will they be able to rediscover their bond... and save themselves? This gripping survival story, full of adventure and danger, is also a heartfelt exploration of sisterhood.

Katie knows there are lots of things that make her different from her peers, from her family's homeschooling to her crooked teeth — but she's sure that she'll have Kacey, her best friend forever. But at their first sleep-away camp the summer before sixth grade, Kacey makes a new, cool friend... and starts seeming more and more distant. Their drifting friendship seems to set off something in Katie's brain, and suddenly she's worried about EVERYTHING. The only things that stop the worries are rituals like tapping three times, but maybe that's just a sign there really is something wrong with her. Told over the course of a year, this relatable graphic novel, inspired by the author's childhood struggles with OCD, is perfect for fans of Raina Telgemeier's Guts and Shannon Hale's Friends Series.

In the realm of Aware, gods, demons, and humans live together, but Miuko is just an innkeeper's daughter, resigned to an ordinary life (except for occasional embarrassment at being loud, clumsy, and stubborn.) Then she has a chance encounter with a demon — and finds herself cursed, with violent urges that take over her at unexpected times. Her father and the local priests cast her out, so Miuko sets out to find a way to overturn the curse. Except on her journey, Miuko develops unusual friendships and an unexpected appreciation for her newfound power. Now she has to ask herself if "saving her soul" is worth returning to the oppressive, controlled life she's supposed to live. This dark Japanese-inspired fantasy by bestselling author Traci Chee is perfect for fans of Studio Ghibli.

Gloria's hoped the droughts and dust storms were a temporary hardship, but when the banker takes the family farm, Pa tells her the family has to move to California and pick fruit until they can save up enough money to buy land again. They find work at a peach orchard where Gloria and her Pa each set to breaking some rules. Gloria is determined to play on the secret, all-boys baseball team, while Pa is talking to his fellow workers about the dropping wages despite the company rules against organizing. And when Pa gets betrayed as he prepares to lead a strike, it's Gloria's gumption — and her friends on the baseball team — that help save the day. Lyrical and inspiring, this middle grade historical fiction novel is part Sandlot, part Esperanza Rising.

It's 1963, and 11-year-old Maggie is struggling with a stutter... and her father's lack of empathy. A visit to her estranged grandfather, who lives near Wildoak Forest, will at least provide her with a bit of an escape. When Maggie meets an abandoned snow leopard cub named Rumpus — an exotic pet who proved too much for a London apartment — she forms a quick bond with him. But others who live near Wildoak are afraid of Rumpus, and soon the whole forest is at risk. Standing up for Rumpus, though, might help Maggie find her voice. Told in two perspectives, with an emotional and heartwrenching look at how the human world affects the natural world, this is a powerful story of conservation and interconnectedness.

Lucy's Aunt Augusta loves wearing fancy dresses, and for Lucy's birthday, she offers to buy her the dress of her dreams. They go to the Fabulous Fashion Store to look at all the choices, and while Lucy enjoys the colors and decorations and styles, none of the dresses has the most important thing: POCKETS. How can Lucy carry leaves, and frogs, and mysterious bones, and other treasures, if she doesn't have pockets? The very idea makes one shopkeeper faint, but Aunt Augusta knows Lucy can have everything she wants... and when the store owner shows he has the perfect dress, pockets and all, Lucy isn't the only one who gets one! With rollicking rhyme and fun illustrations celebrating all of Lucy's adventures, this book is a lovely reminder that you don't have to choose between fancy things and outdoor fun.

When 14-year-old Dita and her family are taken from the Terezin ghetto in Prague to the Auschwitz concentration camp, her life becomes even more terrifying. The humiliation and danger from the Nazis seem inescapable, and it's hard for her to imagine that there is any hope at all. Then Jewish leader Freddy Hirsch asks Dita for help: prisoners have managed to sneak eight books past the guards, and he needs someone to keep these precious volumes safe. It's a task that could put her in even more danger, but it also gives her a lifeline to cling to in the darkest of times. Based on the real-life story of Dita Kraus, whose story was originally told in a best-selling novel, this graphic novel adaptation is a testament to the power of books to help us survive.

Shakespeare buffs will know their names: Juliet, Ophelia, and Cordelia. Their stories are part of some of the greatest plays ever written... and they all end up dead. Underneath a stage's trapdoor, their ghosts — along with the ghosts of other girls and women from Shakespeare's plays — gather together. Slowly, they tell their stories in their own voices, revealing the traumas they've endured and the fates they were doomed to by virtue of their place in a man's tale. In this poetic, experimental book, bestselling author Joy McCullough imagines the girls' conversation as a theatrical script, complete with stage directions capturing each scene. This compelling novel in verse is a unique exploration of women's voices, capturing the power of justice, sisterhood, and love.

Oksana Masters' parents turned her over to the orphanage system in Ukraine shortly after she was born: the aftermath of the Chernobyl disaster had left her with multiple birth defects, including no tibia in either leg, and there was no way they could afford her care. She suffered terrible abuse until, at age 7, an unmarried American professor named Gay Masters became determined to adopt her. After a two year battle, Oksana moved to America, where she endured years of operations, including a double leg amputation. But nothing was going to slow her down, and she became a world-class athlete in not just one sport, but four: rowing, biathlon, cross-country skiing, and road cycling. Today, she has seventeen Paralympic medals, making her the most decorated American winter Olympian! In this powerful memoir, she speaks to anyone who feels like they don't fit in, reminding them that everyone has a place where they can excel.

Rachel Louise Snyder has devoted her career in journalism to advocating for women — including through her groundbreaking book, No Visible Bruises — but few people know that she has personal experience with fighting to survive. After her mother died when Snyder was 8, her father dragged the family into an evangelical, cult-like community across the country. When she rebelled as a teen, she was kicked out, forced to live out of her car at the age of 16. Through sheer determination and good luck, she got into college and became a reporter, traveling to India, Tibet, Niger, and Cambodia to chronicle those who survived domestic violence and patriarchy... then brought her own family back to America to find a home and, surprisingly, healing. This powerful memoir is a reminder of the incredible resilience it takes to survive, and thrive, when everything seems against you.

On November 25, 1960, three sisters were found dead in the Dominican Republic, next to a wrecked Jeep at the bottom of a cliff. The state newspaper reported their "accidental" deaths, but many readers knew the truth: Minerva, Patria, and Maria Teresa Mirabal were Las Mariposas — The Butterflies — vocal opponents of Rafael Trujillo's dictatorship. In this extraordinary novel of courage and love, the voices of all three sisters, as well as their surviving sister, Dede, speak across the decades to tell their own stories, from hair ribbons and secret crushes to gunrunning and prison torture, and to describe the everyday horrors of life under Trujillo's authoritarian rule and the human cost of political oppression.

The spirited Anne of Green Gables comes to life in a charming chapter book series for early readers! Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert are shocked when the orphan waiting at the train station isn't a helpful boy like they expected — instead, it's the imaginative and exuberant red-headed Anne (with an e). If Anne wants to build a new home and family in Avonlea, she'll have to learn a little patience and understanding, but it turns out that her creativity and boldness stand her in good stead too! This first book in an illustrated early reader series inspired by L.M. Montgomery's classic novel will delight Anne fans both new and old. Fans of the series can check out the second book, Anne's Kindred Spirits.

The witches of Discworld usually don't get involved in royal intrigues... but sometimes, you don't have a choice! Granny Weatherwax, Nanny Ogg, and Magrat Garlick get forced to take action when the king of Lancre is murdered by his cousin Felmet, and the King's crown — and infant child — are dropped at their feet. Their plan is to hide Tomjon until he comes of age, but it soon becomes obvious that Felmet's rule will do nothing but damage. Fortunately, the witches have a few spells up their sleeve that might just help the right man end up on the throne... This hilarious novel, which parodies multiple beloved Shakespeare plays, will delight readers with its twists and turns.

7th grader Lily's Korean grandmother always warned her: never make a deal with a tiger. But when Lily's family moves in to help Halmoni after she falls sick, a magical tiger straight out of her folk tales appears! The tiger tells Lily that Halmoni has been hiding stories that made her sad, and promises her that, if Lily releases the stories, her health will be restored. But just as Halmoni said, deals with tigers are not what they seem, and soon Lily realizes that, with the help of her sister and her friend Ricky, she needs to find her voice, face the things she's most afraid of, and recognize the power that stories have to remember the ones we love... even when they're gone. This stunning magical realism novel, based on Korean mythology, is a powerful look at the importance of letting go.

Robyn Goodfellowe and her father have been sent to Ireland by Oliver Cromwell, on a mission to hunt the wolves that are preventing workers from cutting down ancestral forests. But when Robyn sneaks out of the city, she meets Mebh, a free-spirited girl... and one of the mysterious WolfWalkers, who legend says can transform into wolves at night. As Robyn and Mebh work together to protect Mebh's pack from the hunters, Robyn begins to realize that the destruction of the forests has bigger implications than she knew. Based on the gorgeous animated adventure WolfWalkers, this stunning graphic novel, with artwork by the film's creators, celebrates friendship and the power of compassion.

14-year-old Mona is a wizard, but she's not the kind you're thinking of: unlike the powerful magic-users who protect the city, her powers only work on bread. So she lives a quiet life at her aunt's bakery, where she bakes delicious biscuits and makes gingerbread men dance to delight the customers. But when an assassin starts targeting wizards in Mona's city — and the City Inquisitor frames Mona for a murder as part of a plot to take over — she realizes that none of the 'real' wizards are coming to save everyone with their lightning and earthquakes. To save herself and everyone she loves, Mona will have to figure out how a bread wizard can be a hero. Winner of the 2021 Hugo Award for Best Young Adult Book, this quirky and funny fantasy, perfect for fans of Neil Gaiman, explores what happens when a girl who was never considered 'strong' — including by herself — becomes the one to save the day.

It's easy to feel hopeless looking at today's headlines, but primatologist, conservationist, and activist Jane Goodall argues that hope has never been more necessary! With best-selling author Douglas Abrams, Goodall lays out her Four Reasons for Hope: The Amazing Human Intellect, The Resilience of Nature, The Power of Young People, and The Indomitable Human Spirit. Full of stories from her career — including insights and plans she's never before shared — this timely and important book is a reminder from Goodall to the world that we have the power to make change as long as we keep hope alive.

Enola Holmes is back in the daring sleuth's first new adventure in over ten years! Now 15 and living independently in London, she takes on a new mystery when Miss Letitia Glover shows up at her brother Sherlock's door, insisting that her twin sister — who married the Earl of Dunhench and supposedly died for some vague and mysterious reason — must be alive. Against her brother's objections, Enola goes undercover and discovers that the Earl has had other wives that "died" suddenly — and that a black barouche that arrived at the Earl's home at night may be the key to unraveling the mystery. With a little help from Sherlock, the missing woman's sister, and her friend the Viscount Tewkesbury, it will up to Enola to crack the case and unravel the truth around Felicity Glover's sudden disappearance.

11-year-old Cordelia is grieving the apparently loss of her father Prospero, whose ship was lost at sea during an expedition to find new ingredients for the magic her family, the Hatmakers, weave into their hats. Alongside four other families — the Bootmakers, the Watchmakers, the Cloakmakers, and the Glovemakers — the Hatmakers' creations can influence the moods and emotions of their owners. As rumors of war with France rise, the decree goes out to create Peace clothing for King George... but all of them are stolen. There may be a plot against the Makers' Guild — one that could lead to war. With the help of a member of the archrival Bootmakers and a street urchin, Cordelia will have to uncover the truth before it's too late. This sparkling fantasy adventure by Tamzin Merchant celebrates a courageous and resourceful heroine who never gives up. Cordelia's story continues in The Mapmakers.

Growing up, Mary Anning's family was desperately poor — so the nimble girl learned to help her father search the cliffs near her home on the south coast of England to find fossils to sell. Anning turned out to have a gift for fossil hunting; at the age of 13, she and her brother discovered the first complete ichthyosaur skeleton! Anning never had the opportunity for formal education, so she taught herself by reading scientific journals and performing dissections — and while her discoveries weren't given their due during her lifetime, today she's one of the most celebrated paleontologists ever. This exuberant biography, which includes high-quality illustrations — including reproductions of some of Anning's sketches — is a visually appealing and thoroughly researched introduction to a pioneer in STEM.

It's 2061, and 12-year-old Petra Peña is an aspiring storyteller, following in the footsteps of her abuelita — but when a solar flare knocks Halley's Comet off course, directly into the path of the Earth, her scientist parents are selected for a journey to a new planet in hopes of saving the human race. Their whole family boards a ship and are put into stasis for the centuries-long journey. But when she awakes, Petra learns that a cult called The Collective has taken over and purged the memories of humanity's past — by whatever means necessary. Somehow, they missed Petra, and now she has to decide if she can or should share her stories... and whether they are part of what makes us human. This stunning speculative fiction novel from Pura Belpré Honor-winner Donna Barba Higuera is a tribute to the power of storytelling and of the human mind.

Mila Pavlichenko wanted a quiet life in her Kiev home, working as a librarian and tending to her young son. But then, Hitler invades Ukraine and Russia, and everyone must join the fight. Mila discovers a gift for marksmanship and transforms into a deadly sniper known as Lady Death; her 300th kill turns her in to a national heroine, and top brass pull her from the battlefield and send her on a goodwill tour to America. Struggling with the physical and emotional wounds of war, Mila discovers unexpected friendship with First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt... and even the hope for happiness with a fellow sniper. But when an old enemy and a new threat join forces, Lady Death faces the most dangerous fight of her life. The bestselling author of The Huntress and The Rose Code has crafted a suspenseful novel, based on a true story, of a woman who, forced to become a hero, finds her place in history.

Bree's search for the truth behind her mother's death has revealed both the truth of the Legendborn Order and her own ancestral power as the anchor for the Legendborn cycle. It also introduced her to Nick, a Legendborn boy she's fallen in love with. When Nick is kidnapped, the Regents won't let her go fight — so Bree and her friends, including Selwyn, the mage sworn to protect Nick, have to go on the run to rescue him themselves. But Bree's power is unpredictable and growing, and so is her surprising attraction to Selwyn. Can she save Nick without losing herself? The second book in the Legendborn series ramps up the tension and will leave readers eager for the next volume.

Young bunny Cress refuses to believe that Papa died on his nighttime foraging expedition, but that doesn't matter to Mama: she knows it's a dangerous world for rabbits, and moves the Watercress family into the Broken Arms, an apartment building in an oak tree full of strange and irritating neighbors, from the owl landlord to the gossipy songbirds. as Cress gets to know — and in some cases, befriend or impress — people in her new neighborhood, she also faces dangers like Monsieur Reynard the fox and a snake others call the Final Drainpipe. But even as she proves herself, can she begin to accept Broken Arms as home? The bestselling author of Wicked has crafted a clever, wry coming of age story, accented with gorgeous illustrations by David Litchfield, that celebrates resilience, hope, and finding your place.

Fourth grader Emily's life changed forever when a whirlwind in silver sequined sneakers named Rani moves into her apartment building. Rani is living alone (her mother is conducting research in Patagonia) with no one but her dog Otto for company. She doesn't seem to understand how to pay for things she wants in stores, or why the rules at school exist. At the same time, she's generous and kind, and Emily feels increasingly pulled towards their growing friendship. And when Rani's ignorance of the world results in the unlicensed Otto being taken to a shelter, Emily leads the charge to reunite the pair and make things right. This illustrated chapter book starring a modern-day Pippi Longstocking is just irresistibly fun.

Ever since she was abandoned as a baby in Central Park, Cordelia has been raised by a squirrel named Shakespeare, doing everything any other squirrel does, from leaping from branch to branch to sleeping in a treehouse. She has one human friend, the groundskeeper, and that makes Cordelia wonder what it would be like to have more. A gymnastics class (where Cordelia's incredible leaps and phenomenal balance impress the coaches!) seems like a promising start, but how can she learn to fit in with the other kids? She's not a squirrel, but she's not quite a girl either... she's squirlish! This charming, laugh-out-loud illustrated chapter book series opener is perfect for fans of Sophie Mouse and Critter Club.

For British-Bangladeshi birdwatcher Mya-Rose Craig, the sight of a rare bird has always been a joy — but it's also been part of her family's greatest struggle. After her family spent years traveling the world in search of new sightings and beautiful landscapes, it became impossible to ignore her mother's failing mental health. But the Craigs would turn to their love of nature to sustain all of them through that dark time. At the same time, her travels sparking Mya-Rose's passion to protect our environment, to advocate for Black, indigenous, people of color, and to fight for the right for all people to enjoy the healing power of nature. This compelling memoir is a tribute to the profound impact that natural places can have upon us all.

In 1933, Hannah Pick-Goslar and Anne Frank met for the first time. Hannah's family had fled Nazi Germany, but the two girls knew little of that rising worry; they only knew that they were the best of friends. Then, in 1942, Anne and her family disappeared, leaving unmade bed and unwashed dishes... and Hannah wondering if her beloved friend was safe, or gone for good, for two long years. It wasn't until her own family was transported to the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp that the two friends had an all too short reunion. In this long-awaited memoir, readers see the Holocaust through the eyes of a child who had no idea that her beloved friendship would become an icon of hope in the midst of an unspeakably tragic time.

Kate, Mia, Lainey, and Gabby are all very different — but they all dream of meeting a real fairy. And then suddenly they find themselves whisked of to Pixie Hollow, the home of Tinker Bell! At first they're delighted, but in Pixie Hollow, the four girls are just Clumsies who don't belong. And when Kate jealously steals a handful of pixie dust, the girls wonder if they'll ever make it home. Even if they do, can they really forget the magic of the fairies, or do they dare continue their adventures between the worlds? This box set includes the first four volumes of this magical early chapter book series: In a Blink, The Space Between, A Dandelion Wish, and From the Mist.

When World War I broke out, the military needed people to help communicate messages between American and French headquarters, and from officers to the battlefield. But who could ensure the communications got through to the right people? Grace Banker was a 25-year-old telephone switchboard trainer from New York who was asked to help. She would become the Chief Operator of a group of 32 women — officially the Signal Corps, but affectionately known as the "Hello Girls" — who braved freezing weather, fires, battle, and more to ensure that critical messages were relayed. This absorbing and exuberant picture book celebrates Banker and her Hello Girls, overlooked heroes of World War I who are finally getting their due.

12-year-old Melody, who has cerebral palsy, adores horses... but meeting them face to face is a bit terrifying! This year, she wants to face her fears, and decides that a summer camp — one with horseback riding, that's ready to welcome a kid like her — is the perfect opportunity. Melody finds her camp, but when she's away from home and the people who support her for the first time, she feels a bit lost. Fortunately, she finds a new ally in her no-nonsense counselor Trinity, who helps her push herself out of the comfort zone. By the light of flickering campfires and the power of thunderstorms, through the terror of unexpected creatures in cabins and the first sparkle of a crush, Melody’s about to discover how brave and strong she really is. This highly anticipated sequel to Out of My Mind celebrates its huge-hearted heroine and her determination to follow her dreams.

When Elizebeth Smith Friedman was hired by an eccentric millionaire to look for secret messages in Shakespeare's plays, she had no idea she'd become one of America's top cryptanalysts! Her knack for spotter patterns and solving puzzles led her to code-breaking, and she and her husband, William, became stars of the intelligence community, cracking enemy messages in World War I and World War II and helping the Coast Guard track smugglers through their communications — all at a time when most women were expected to keep house. Award-winning historian and novelist Amy Butler Greenfield introduces teen readers to this inspiring pioneer of STEM, whose contributions to American military intelligence have only recently been declassified.

When Ariel and her twin sister Zan were diagnosed with Crouzon syndrome, a craniofacial condition where the bones of the head fuse prematurely, it was the start of dozens of surgeries that blurred the lines between medical need and making them aesthetically pleasing. As she grew, she began to realize how our society others people: fat people, people with facial differences, people of different races, and more. In this powerful young adult memoir, she explores her thoughts about beauty, identity, and feeling alienated from your own body through the lens of Picasso's life as an artist — and how his misogyny and ableism affected it. Poignant and thought-provoking, this book challenges us to examine our assumptions and urges us to look at people with new eyes.

13-year-old Ivy is very determined to be a GOOD kid — and that means putting everyone else's needs first. But when her mom decides to be a gestational surrogate for her friend, Ivy is shocked to discover that she's jealous and concerned about appearances. That's not the right way — the IVY way — to react! And if she's not the kindest kid out there, who is she? So she dives headfirst into proving how selfless she is... but it's hard for Ivy's friends to feel connected to her when she never lets them help her. Ivy will have to learn what it means to be vulnerable before she really understand what it means to be kind. This thoughtful and authentic middle-grade novel conveys an important message about the reciprocity of friendship and what it means to find yourself.

When Jennifer Doudna was in 6th grade, she read The Double Helix, James Watson's story of discovering the structure of DNA — and she was hooked. She became determined not just to learn more about DNA, but to learn enough about biochemistry to understand RNA, the related molecule that lets genes express themselves. Her expertise in RNA led to her work helping develop CRISPR, a revolutionary technique to edit genes — one that is already being used to target genetic diseases like Tay-Sachs and sickle cell anemia. And today, her team is part of the global effort to fight the novel coronavirus that causes COVID-19. This young reader's edition of The Code Breaker introduces this pioneering scientist and her Nobel Prize-winning work to young readers, who will be inspired to imagine how they too could change the world.

Abby is 9 years old, so she's not exactly a kid but she's definitely not a grown-up yet. And those in-between feelings get harder when it feels like everything starts changing. Her cousin and best friend, Zoe, has to move away; her mother goes back to work; and she's stuck in the running club, which she hates but which was the only after-school activity still available. She's also starting to recognize the needs of the homeless community in her area — and on top of all that, her body is starting to change, too! Without Zoe, how is she going to handle all of this? Fortunately, Abby starts to find her voice — and in the process, realizes that change can be for the good, too. Author Megan E. Bryant tackles multiple tough issues with grace, creating a timely story — first in a new series — about growing up and finding your way in a shifting world.

12-year-old Victoria adores horses, and she's been riding for years — but at her stable, that means competitions and horse shows. The stakes are high, and so is the stress... not to mention the money it costs for entrance fees, show clothes, and so much more. When Victoria and her best friend Taylor, who loves competing, have a blow-out fight over Victoria's loss of interest, Victoria decides she needs a new start and joins Edgewood Stables, where there are plenty of horses to ride — and where Victoria can avoid drama by avoiding the other riders altogether. Edgewood does help Victoria rediscover her love of horses, but she soon realizes that she can't really be happy with no friends — and that the right friends will appreciate her just as she is. This middle grade graphic novel, starring a Mighty Girl horse-lover who's burned out from the stress and pressure of riding competitions, is a celebration of rediscovering your passion, perfect for fans of Best Friends and Stargazing.

"I really don’t care what you think of my hair / or my eyes or my toes or my nose," says one child in this story. The other agrees: who cares about any of that? In fact, there's a lot that they don't care about... But that doesn't mean that they don't care about one another: "Mostly I care that you’re you and I’m me, and I care that we’re us, and I care that we’re we." Caldecott honoree illustrators Molly Idle and Juana Martinez-Neal — real-life best friends — passed artwork back and forth creating childhood versions of themselves as they illustrated this gentle tale from best-selling author Julie Fogliano. The result is an empowering, emotionally resonant story about friendship, looking past the surface, and what it really means to care.

Medusa has been banished by both gods and men, and lives on a far-flung island with only the snakes that replace her hair for company. Then a handsome young man named Perseus arrives. He's a son of Zeus, so she shouldn't trust him, but Medusa is hungry for connection: someone to talk to, someone who might understand. And as she grows closer to Perseus, she begins to untangle her own story: the lingering trauma of the cruel treatment she's suffered, and how she's been exiled for the crime of daring to be herself. Internationally bestselling author Jessie Burton has crafted a stunning and lyrical story, accented with gorgeous, rich illustrations by Olivia Lomenech Gill, that invites readers to reimagine the Greek myth of Medusa through new eyes.

Olivia Prior dreams of a family and a home; instead, she's isolated at the Merilance School for Independent Girls, where she's ostracized by her peers for being mute, and only has her mother's journal, full of rants and madness, as a connection to her past. Then she gets an invitation from her uncle to come live with him at Gallant manor. It's not the homecoming she dreamed of: her cousin is hostile, the manor is run down, and there seem to be ghosts haunting the hallways. And then she steps through a ruined wall... into another world, ruled by the mysterious Master of the House. Now Olivia has to choose: join the Priors, defending the world at the risk of their own lives and sanity, or take a seat at the Master's right hand? Eerie, rich, and full of powerful messages about found family and communication, this novel is perfect for fans of Neil Gaiman, Holly Black, and Garth Nix.

18-year-old Salama was a pharmacy student when her home city of Homs came under fire during the Syrian Revolution. Her father and older brother were captured during a protest and her mother died in a bombing, so all she has left is her beloved sister-in-law, Layla — pregnant with her first child — and an imaginary companion she's named Khawf, which is Arabic for fear. As she volunteers in the hospital, desperately trying to save some of the wounded, Salama dreams of fleeing to safety in Germany with Layal, but she can't bear the thought of abandoning her country. And when she meets 19-year-old Kenan, who uploads videos of the protests to YouTube to share the truth with the world, the beginnings of love also help give her hope — and a determination to raise her own voice. This searing novel explores the power of revolution and the dream of freedom.

11-year-old Avery loves her neighborhood, her school, her two BFFS, and more. But as one of seven kids, she feels constantly squished. Everything is too loud, too chaotic, and just too much. She dreams about her own room where she can have a little solitude and place to create art without younger siblings interfering... so she's hurt and furious when her older brother Theo gets a room to himself instead, and now she has not one but TWO siblings sharing a space with her: clingy Pearl and wild Max. As Avery navigates her frustration (and plots to get her own room) she learns that her family may be planning a cross country move. Will she ever have a place that's really all her own? Megan Wagner Lloyd and Michelle Mee Nutter, creators of the best-selling graphic novel Allergic, have created another funny, true-to-life story, this one about growing up in a big family.

Mahani Teave grew up on Rapa Nui, also known as Easter Island, and she heard music in everything around her. She longed to play, and took music lessons (using the island's only piano) — and it soon became clear that, to take her talent to its fullest, she would have to leave her beloved home. Mahani became a touring concert pianist, but her heart was still with Rapa Nui, particularly when she heard it was being overwhelmed with tourist and ocean trash. So she returned and built a music school out of recycled garbage, complete with solar panels and a food garden! Today, Mahani continues to build a sustainable future for Rapa Nui and to teach music. This true story is a celebration of following your dreams, both away from and back to home.

Scholastica, known as Tick by her friends and family, loves helping her candlemaker father — but ever since he's taken on a boy as an apprentice, Tick feels pushed aside. She has always spent hours with him making wares to sell at Stourbridge Fair, but suddenly she's not allowed just because she's a girl. So Tick comes up with a plan: if she can make the wax Agnus Dei charms that keep travelers safe — and sneak off to the fair to sell them — she can prove to her father that she deserves a place by his side, even if she is a girl. Fans of The Beatryce Prophecy and Catherine, Called Birdy will love this book that explores a key medieval trade through the eyes of a determined girl defying the roles set out for her.

As a child in Uganda, Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka loved animals — and that love offered her comfort as she survived tragedies, including her father's assassination during a military coup. Although she was discouraged from pursuing an education, she traveled to England to study to be a vet. Then, as Dr. Kalema-Zikusoka, she returned to Uganda to establish a veterinary department for the government. Her work has been integral in protecting the endangered Mountain Gorillas, as she protects them from everything from encroaching human development to COVID-19. In this fascinating memoir, Dr. Kalema-Zikusoka tells her own story, celebrating her determination to protect the world for both the gorillas and the humans who call it home.

Maggie Smith's stunning poem "Good Bones" has touched the heart of millions: "I am trying/ to sell [my children] the world. Any decent realtor/... chirps on about good bones: This place could be beautiful, right?/ You could make this place beautiful." Now, in her lyrical memoir, she explores how the end of her marriage affected her art — and how her personal heartbreak relates to the experiences of today's women, struggling with entrenched gender roles that seem impossible to root out. Touching on her love for her children, her determination to love herself, and the power of possibility, this book is a tribute to the empowerment that comes with writing your truth and living your own life — a beautiful one.

Clare Frank was 17 years old and five foot two when she signed up to become a firefighter. She was inspired by her brother's love of the service, and while she was technically too young, she opted to leave her birthdate blank and keep her fingers crossed that no one would notice! That casual curiosity became a lifelong calling, and Clare rose to become chief of fire protection, one of the highest-ranking women in California Fire history. Along the way, she dealt with prejudice, tragedy, scandals, and some of the worst fires ever to strike her state. With a combination of wit and wisdom, she gives readers an inside peek at what it's really like to look at raging infernos that most people flee... and charge into them instead.

After receiving a diary as a wedding gift in 1838, Anne Sykes decided to use it as a scrapbook — of textiles and fashion. She took a sample of fabric from each of her own garments, plus ones donated by family and friends, and annotated each. For her, it was a personal record of her life and the lives of the people she loved. But two centuries later, for fashion historian and museum curator Kate Strasin, it became a fascinating glimpse into Victorian life. Through these snippets, Strasdin follow Anne from Lancashire to Singapore and then back to England, capturing details that expressed themselves uniquely in cloth, from poisonous dyes to Victorian mourning practices to the brutal cost of the cotton industry. The clothes we wear tell stories we don't think of; in this unique book, Strasdin peels back the layers to show them to us.

Once upon a time, Snow and Rose lived in a big house with servants, and had a mother and father who loved them. But one day, her father never returned from the woods... and her mother was paralyzed by sadness. In their new cottage in the forest, they meet a new friend, and begin to discover the forest's mysteries. Perhaps if they work together, these sisters can break the terrible spells that rule it... and find a happy ending. This innovative retelling of the fairy tale "Snow White and Rose Red" features a pair of different but deeply loving sisters on a quest for home and family.

Margaret is a young orphan who has lived surprisingly happily on her island home, even though most of the population is a convent of nuns. She has companionship from William, the son of Lady Cameron and an exile from Albion, and that's enough... at first. But when the deposed queen of Albion, Eleanor, is sent to Margaret's island — and William leaves — Margaret starts to ask difficult questions about the purpose of her home and where she really came from. This richly detailed, historical fiction graphic novel, loosely based on the exile of Queen Elizabeth I by her sister, Queen Mary, is full of mystery and intrigue, all set on Margaret's vibrant and windswept home.

When Margaret's family moves to a cottage by the sea to help her grandmother, she feels lonely and lost... until the day she sees unicorns on the seashore! When they disappear, as quickly as they came, she realizes that one baby unicorn has been left behind. The kindhearted girl cares for him, and over the fall and winter, the two provide comfort and companionship to one another. And when Margaret returns the unicorn to his family in the spring, she's sad to see him go — but she realizes that she's starting to feel at home, and they'll both be where they belong. With a classic feel and a dash of magic, this cozy picture book is perfect for unicorn lovers and anyone who wants a little reassurance that friendship will come in time.

13-year-old Amari is sure that her missing brother, Quinton, is alive, and she's tired of being bullied at school for believing it. So when she finds a ticking briefcase in his closet, containing a nomination for a summer tryout at the Bureau of Supernatural Affairs, she’s certain the secretive organization holds the key to locating Quinton — if only she can wrap her head around the idea of magicians, fairies, aliens, and other supernatural creatures all being real. When it's revealed that Amari is a natural born magician, she now faces discrimination in the Bureau as well... especially when an evil magician starts threatening the supernatural world. Artemis Fowl meets Men in Black in this trilogy opener perfect for fans of Nevermoor. Amari's adventures continue in Amari and the Great Game.

11-year-old Willodeen loves animals of all kinds — even the strange "screechers" that the rest of the villagers of Perchance consider pests. She believes that all creatures have their part to play... and maybe that explains why Perchance is facing such a terrible year, full of natural disasters and the complete disappearance of the hummingbears that are both a source of local pride and a key element of the village's economy. When her friend, Connor, gives her a birthday gift that kindles an unexpected magic in her, Willodeen realizes that she can solve the mystery of the missing hummingbears... and maybe even speak up for all of the animals she adores, even the screechers. This whimsical and thoughtful story by Katherine Applegate, the Newbery Award winning author of The One And Only Ivan, celebrates the power of individuals to make a difference.

Gertie the yak has the curliest wool and the grippiest hooves...but she's the smallest yak in her herd, and she wants to be BIG. Despite her mother's advice that "BIGNESS can come in all sorts of disguises," Gertie creates a growing-up plan that includes lots of healthy foods, plenty of exercise, and even reading to grow big thoughts... but she stays stubbornly small. Then the herd faces an emergency: a yak stuck on a cliff — and only a small yak can save the day. It turns out that Gertie has "bigness inside" that's more important than physical size! This rollicking picture book, with cozy artwork packed with adorable yaks in woolly hats and coats, is a charming story that celebrates the different talents that make each of us unique.

When Hitler's Nazis threatened the world, every person was needed to help the war effort — and the women stepped up! In this fascinating book, U.S. Army Major General Mari K. Eder tells the story of fifteen little-known heroes of the Greatest Generation: resistance fighters, pioneering pilots, rescuers, and spies. Each of them defied expectation in service of their country and people in need, not because they would be acclaimed for it but because it was the right thing to do. From Ola Mildred Rexroat, the only Native American pilot in the WASP, to sisters Ida and Louise Cook who smuggled Jews out of Germany while wearing jewelry and furs, to Hilda Eisen who was captured by the Nazis and escaped — twice — these are stories to inspire future generations with the courage of women who step out of line.

Reha feels trapped between two worlds: she stands out as the only Indian American student in her 1983 classroom, while at home her parents have high expectations (and only seem to notice her when she doesn't measure up.) Then her mother is diagnosed with leukemia and everything changes. Reha can't stand the sight of blood, but she wants to be a doctor, especially if it will help her Amma get better. But no matter how hard she works to be the perfect daughter, Reha can't stop Amma from dying... and then she has to figure out what comes after. Perfect for fans of Jasmine Warga and Thanhhà Lại, this intimate and deeply moving book explores grief, love, and how your relationships with your parents shift over time.

Florence Nightingale grew up in a wealthy family, and she could have spent her days with a wealthy husband and a life of luxury. Instead, she felt called to help care for the injured, sick, and poor, so she trained to be a nurse. At the time, most people thought nurses weren't important; all they did was provide a little care and comfort. Florence, though, knew nurses could do much more. When war broke out, she traveled to help nurse injured soldiers, and she used her knowledge of science to show that the dirty hospitals and poor food were more dangerous than the injuries! Although she became famous to the world as the Lady with the Lamp, her greatest legacy is her role as the mother of modern nursing. This compelling book from the Little People, BIG DREAMS series will inspire young readers to imagine how they too could change the world.

12-year-old Tahlia Wilkins has plans for the start of the summer — including making a splash at the popular kids' pool party. She's also eagerly awaiting signs that she's really growing up, like her first period. But to her dismay, that milestone arrives the day before the party — and right after her mom leaves for a work retreat. She can't bear to talk to her dad about it, so with the help of her best friend Lily, Tahlia sets out on an adventure that includes "borrowing" coins from a fountain to use in a bathroom dispenser, tricking a teen neighbor into using her bathroom in an effort to "rehome" a few tampons, and more. Fortunately, it's not long before Tahlia realizes that her dad is more than willing to help — and that, in his words, "nothing about your body is embarrassing." This laugh-out-loud and all-too-real story about menarche is a modern version of Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret, perfect for young readers waiting for their own first periods.

12-year-old Olive is eager for adventure, even though her osteogenesis imperfecta — AKA brittle bone disease — has her parents convinced she needs constant protection. As far as Olive is concerned, with her trusty wheelchair (to prevent falls) and some actual friends, she can overcome any obstacle! When she convinces her parents to let her go to Macklemore Elementary, her first day goes awry — although she does find a friend, Grace, and learn about a magical wish-granting hummingbird that could be the solution to all her problems. But as Olive chases the hummingbird and new opportunities at school — including a chance to perform in the school play — she starts to wonder if she really wants to be a different person after all... Inspired by author Natalie Lloyd's own experiences with OI, and set in a world that deftly combines magic and reality, this is a powerful story about disability, self-acceptance, and finding your own path to your dreams.

Frankie's mom Willow and honorary aunt Buffy — yes, THAT Willow and Buffy — saved Sunnydale... so now Frankie is just trying to survive sophomore year and understand her budding (and not very impressive) magical powers. Then the slayer line gets targeted by a fatal attack, and suddenly Frankie is the first ever slayer-witch. Frankie doesn't like taking the lead, but suddenly she's expected to put together a Scooby Gang, get guidance from Watcher Spike, and somehow tackle a new Big Bad — before whatever is targeting the slayers comes for her too. Fans of Buffy the Vampire Slayer and other paranormal action stories will love this series opener that brings us back to Sunnydale in time for a new adventure.

Teen treasure hunters Fi and Shane are on the quest for riches — whether that means solving puzzles or cracking some heads. Then Fi pricks her finger on a bone spindle in one ruin, revealing the spirit of the cursed prince Briar Rose, who needs to be woken with a kiss. And Shane meets Red, a mysterious and beautiful young woman who keeps showing up at the strangest of moments. As the pair face Witch Hunters, dark magic, and even awful exes, they also both find themselves falling in love, Fi with Briar Rose and Shane with Red. But is it really love they're feeling, or just the pressure of destiny? And can they find their happily ever afters even if they defy the well-trod paths? Part fairy tale, part Indiana Jones, this fantasy adventure enjoys tweaking the nose of cliches to create a compelling story of found family and what it really means to be in love.

When Temple Grandin was a child, she was different from other children — and her parents were told that she wouldn't be able to attend school, let alone live an independent life. Instead, her mother found people who could help her, and tried to understand why some things, like eye contact, strong smells, bright lights, and loud noises were so overwhelming for Temple. As she got older, Temple discovered that she also had incredible gifts, including a remarkable visual memory and the ability to understand how animals perceived their environment. As an animal scientist and as an autism advocate, she's change the way other people see the world, too! Tthis inspiring book from the Ordinary People Change the World series is a tribute to the power of unique perspectives.

Math-loving Talia is discovering that things don't add up in middle school like they used to in elementary! For one, her best friend Dash tries to keep their friendship out of school, saying it's embarrassing to be friends with a girl. For another, the mathlete team captain discriminates against her just because she's a girl! So Talia founds the Mathlete Mermaids, and all-girl mathlete team, and they quickly show off their stuff. But there's a lot that Talia has to learn, and she soon realizes that it's worth devoting some of her brainpower to cracking social codes too... including when it's right to step aside and let someone else take the lead. Told in a hybrid format full of text, doodles, graphs, and illustrations — plus lots of puzzles and math games! — this book by the creator of Amelia’s Notebook will speak to the fun of discovering yourself in middle school.

In the late 1700s and early 1800s, one captain was renowned for huge catches, wise weather-reading, and a borderline miraculous record of never losing a single crewmember to the sea. Her name was Captain Thurídur, and she defied expectations on both land and sea! From her early days on the water, wearing pants at age 11 in an open rowboat, it was clear she would not stand for prejudiced restrictions or injustice. As an adult, she solved one of Iceland's most notorious robberies, and used the biased court system to fight for women's rights. And even in her sixties, her adventures weren't over: she started hiking the mountains, walking where no one else had dared. Margaret Willson reveals this remarkable story of a woman of courage, intelligence, and independence who refused have her future defined for her.

In 1943, the war in Europe was slowly turning in the Allies' favor... but in the Pacific, it continued to be a grueling, traumatic affair, with many US troops desperately short on supplies and unable to get a reprieve from combat zones. So First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt set out on a daring mission: she would travel to the Pacific frontlines to boost the troops' morale and bring news home to America. It was a closely guarded secret until the news finally broke on August 27, stunning a nation that had believed she was secluded at home. In the first book to fully tell this astonishing story, author Shannon McKenna Schmidt captures yet another story of Roosevelt's inspiring compassion, determination, and courage.

Where does this girl's musical journey begin? Perhaps it begins because her uncle has a cold, so he gives her his ticket. Or perhaps it begins hundreds of years before, when, "Because a man named Ludwig wrote beautiful music— / a man named Franz was inspired to create his own." And perhaps, when the girl grows up, she will be the "because" for someone else's love of music. Because sometimes it’s the smallest moments that have the biggest impact. Best-selling author Mo Willems' exquisite story captures the magical influence that chance moments have on our hearts, through the eyes of one girl whose musical awakening becomes a life-long passion.

When Marianne visits the beach, she digs for buried treasure — and the treasure she discovers is a real life dinosaur skeleton. After naming her skeleton Bony, Marianne wishes it would come to life, and to her delight, Bony responds. Now a green-skinned, apatosaurus-like creature who can swim and fly, Bony sets off with Marianne on some amazing adventures, including meeting other children with their own dream dinos! When the night is done, the children return to their homes and the beach.... where they continue digging, the adults none the wiser. This charming celebration of imagination (and dinosaurs) will delight young readers.

This little girl has always loved Mermaids, even when her classmates laughed at the very idea. And one day, at the beach, she actually meets one! Mermaid becomes a best friend, despite the challenges they face living in two different worlds, and they share adventures from tea parties to saving sea turtles. But when a stormy night stirs up pollution that threatens the Mermaid's life, the pair have to part. However, the little girl promises to help care for the ocean — leading to a joyful reunion many years later! This gorgeous quietly environmental tale by Soosh, best-selling author/illustrator of Dad By My Side, also celebrates the power of belief and the enduring strength of friendship.

Almost two years ago, Meg's father went to fight against the Nazis — and she hasn't seen him since. With the family farm now in Nazi-occupied territory, Meg has already been secretly helping the French Resistance, while also deciphering codes he left in a jar to entertain her while he's gone... a jar that's almost empty. Then Meg stumbles across an injured British spy who tells her that her father could be released from Nazi imprisonment — if she can guide a family of German refugees safely to Spain. To do so, she'll have to untangle the most complicated cipher yet — one that could reveal dangerous secrets that might risk both her mission and her life. Jennifer A. Nielsen, bestselling author of Resistance, has crafted a suspenseful story that will leave readers wondering who Meg can trust to the very end.