Jane Steele by Lyndsay Faye

5 stars Ever read a book and get frustrated by the silly choices the main character makes? Ever wish the character had just killed off the antagonist instead of drawing out the problem? This novel scratches that itch and it was so satisfying. A fascinating exploration of the twisted road one’s life can take based…

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Simone by Viet Thanh Nguyen

Illustrated by Minnie Phan 5 stars A remarkable story of bravery, hope, and working toward a better future. Set during the 2020 California wildfires, the story follows Simone as she and her mother evacuate. Though Simone is scared, her mother helps calm her by recounting her own evacuation during a flood in Viet Nam. Using…

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A Little Like Magic by Sarah Kurpiel

5 stars An utterly stunning story of art, beauty, and permanence. The narrator is not happy about facing the cold weather, uncomfortable winter clothes, crowds, and an unfamiliar setting to attend the winter festival. She doesn’t see the point of making ice sculptures that are just going to melt. To make matters worse, on her…

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Every Day, Chemistry by Julia Sooy

Illustrated by Bonnie Pang 3 stars A adorable exploration of chemical reactions in everyday life. From baking to cleaning to breathing, Sooy shows how we interact with chemistry every day and how necessary it is to so many different activities. This is a wonderful introduction to thinking about chemistry for young readers. The simple text…

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Witchy, Volume 1 by Ariel Slamet Ries

4 stars Hyalin is a magical world where witches’ hair length indicates their power. But those whose hair is deemed too long are declared enemies of the kingdom and annihilated. Years ago, Nyneve’s father met such a fate. Now she is determine to keep under the radar of the conscription officials and hide her true…

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Fake Chinese Sounds by Jing Jing Tsong

4 stars After a summer spent studying for Chinese school, playing soccer, and bonding with her grandmother visiting from Taiwan, Měi Yīng is excited to start fifth grade. But then she becomes the target of new kid Sid’s racist jokes. Should she ignore him like everyone suggests or stand up to his ignorance? Great themes…

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Rainbow! Vol. 1 by Sunny and Gloomy

2.5 stars Adorable artwork, a sweet supporting cast, and plenty of trauma to go around. The adorable cover and sweet synopsis did not prepare me for what this book was actually about. Despite being reduced to a single mention of “a complicated home life” on the back cover, the bulk of this volume is actually…

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Magic Like That by Samara Cole Doyon

Illustrated by Geneva Bowers 5 stars A gorgeous, lush celebration of Black hair and self-confidence. Told through lyrical narration, a young girl shares some of her favorite hairstyles as she waits for her mother to reveal her latest creation. I loved the different facets expressed through different hair styles, from whimsical to majestic, mischievous to…

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Parker’s Big Feelings by Parker Curry & Jessica Curry

Illustrated by Brittany Jackson & Tajae Keith 4 stars Parker’s day is not going well. She’s missing her friend and her siblings are being too loud. Her mother helps her remember ways to feel better by breathing, exercising, and having some quiet time. A great example of how to deal with big feelings. This is…

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