Pearl of the Sea

by Anthony Silverston, Raffaella Delle Donne, and Willem Samuel 4 stars A heartwarming story of friendship, family, forgiveness, and moving forward. With the looming threat of not making rent and having to move away from the sea, Pearl gives in to the temptation of illegal abalone poaching. But during her dives, she makes a strange…

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Beneath by Cori Doerrfeld

5 stars A stunning picture book with a heartfelt message and beautiful artwork. Finn is in a bad mood. When Grandpa suggests going for a walk, Finn reluctantly agrees. Along the way, Grandpa shares a wonderful message of remembering what’s beneath, both in one’s surroundings and within other people. Though the story may appear simple…

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Cape by Kevin Johnson

Illustrated by Kitt Thomas 5 star A truly beautiful story, well-told. Follow the events of a funeral as seen through the eyes of a child. The story perfectly captures the happy-sadness of remembering loved ones lost. A gorgeous reminder not to block out memories that make you sad, but to embrace them and find the…

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Hungry Ghost by Victoria Ying

5 stars This book contains a content note for depictions of disordered eating. A hauntingly beautiful story of friendship, loss, family, and healing. Valerie has always tried to be a “good” daughter. To her, that means giving in to her mother’s concerns about her gaining weight, even if it means taking unhealthy measures to comply….

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Long Way Down by Jason Reynolds

5 stars A powerful novel-in-verse that takes on the cycle of violence and vengeance. A non-traditional ghost story that follows Will who seeks revenge after his brother’s murder. The majority of the story takes place in the 16 seconds it takes to ride the elevator to the lobby. In that time, Reynolds grabs the reader’s…

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Ikenga by Nnedi OkoraforIkenga

3 stars A fascinating superhero origin story steeped in Nigerian culture and lore. After the murder of his father, the chief of police, Nnamdi vows to avenge his death. The means to actualize that vow come with a powerful artifact, an ikenga, which gives him unparalleled abilities. Will revenge settle Nnamdi’s restlessness or is the…

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Harbor Me (Audiobook)

by Jacqueline Woodson 5 stars A beautiful novel that tackles many difficult topics in an approachable way. When a group of students are told by their teacher that every Friday they will meet without an adult in the old art room to talk about whatever they want, they are hesitant. But as the year goes…

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Willodeen by Katherine Applegate

Illustrated by Charles Santoso 5 stars A new favorite from Katherine Applegate! I loved this story. A beautiful representation of how plants and animals coexist and form mutually beneficial relationships. It show demonstrates human intervention can unintendedly alter that balance with unintended consequences. A blend of eco-mystery and coming of age with a touch of…

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Delicates (Sheets #2) by Brenna Thummler

5 stars A stunning follow-up to Sheets. This one wonderfully captures some of the hardships of growing up female with crush confusion, toxic friendships, and the pressure to fit in. Despite such difficulties, it is filled with hope, kindness, empathy, supportive friendship, and the little moments that bring joy. It shows the power of doing the…

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Witch Hazel by Molly Idle

5 stars An absolutely beautiful story, both visually and in its content, that explores loss, memory, and time spent together. Gentle and slow, this lovely book celebrates the connection between grandmother and granddaughter, passing on stories and making new memories. Poetic wordplay and soft, rounded illustrations make for a soothing reading experience. The artwork is…

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