Staff Picks

Sand dancer Oona must light the Beacons to save all life from extinction, but her homeworld is suddenly invaded by those who'd stop her at all cost. With two unlikely allies, can Oona survive a war and save the 5 worlds? A science-fantasy series perfect for fans of Amulet.

Illustrated by Erin E. Stead | In this charming follow up, we again befriend Amos, the friendly zookeeper, and his animal friends. Amos is very tired after planning a surprise for his animal friends, misses the bus to work, and arrives at the zoo late. Will his friends step in to help set the day right?

This novel in verse tells the poignant story of a young boy trying to cope with his father’s mental decline from prior football head injuries.

Like creepy monsters? Learn the history behind Dracula, the Golem, Mr. Hyde, the Mummy, and other creatures from literature.

Illustrated by Loren Long | A beautifully illustrated poetic picture book with evocative images that bring to life the power children can have to change the world, or at least their community environment.

El Cucuy is a figure from Mexican folklore. In this story, El Cucuy lives in a cactus pot. The main character, Ramon, learns to overcome fear and anxiety, and El Cucuy has to do the same. A great story about overcoming change and being brave!

Ally Nickerson is the class clown but there is a reason for her behavior. This book features a young girl dealing with dyslexia. With the help of her substitute teacher and friends she learns to overcome her challenges and love herself.

Mia and her parents live and work in Mr. Yao’s motel, and he isn’t very nice to them. Yet, through the friendships she makes with the hotel’s residents and guests, Mia learns to find her voice.

Yevgeny’s parents hope that one day he’ll be chosen to represent Russia to the rest of the world. But what if he isn’t special or talented enough to stand out? For readers who are ready for a true, funny, and heartbreaking story about growing up in Russia during the Cold War.

It isn’t Zee’s fault that she can see things that her classmates can’t! And it isn’t her fault that some of those things might be dogs, or demons, or even ghosts. Give this book to readers who enjoy fantastic stories about friendship, families, and paranormal activity.

Illustrated by Parwinder Singh | Halal Food from food carts is very popular and can be found all over New York City. This book celebrates family, tradition and food while giving a glimpse into the life of an Arab-American family.

Ham Helsing is a pig who would rather paint or write poetry than have an adventure. But after his brother dies, Ham must begin his first dangerous assignment: to hunt a vampire. For readers who are looking for a graphic novel that will make them think and also make them laugh.