Free to Learn: How Alfredo Lopez Fought for the Right to Go to School

by Cynthia Levinson Illustrated by Mirelle Ortega 4 stars A powerful fictionalized account that tells the story of Plyler v. Doe, which mandated free public school education for all US residents regardless of immigration status. This nonfiction picture book follows Alfredo Lopez who loves school where he can learn and see his friends. But one…

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My Cat is Such a Weirdo Vol. 1 by Tamako Tamagoyama

Translated by Elina Ishikawa 4 stars A hilarious and relatable collection of comics perfect for cat-lovers. Tamako Tamagoyama shares the strange behaviors of her two rescue cats, Ton-chan and Shino-san. Includes relatable adventures in living with a cat such as intense cat stares, nail cutting, navigating the dynamics of a two-cat household, converting husbands to…

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The Girl from the Other Side: Siúil, A Rún, Vol. 8

by Nagabe Translated by Adrienne Beck 4 stars Ah, my heart can’t take this! In order to save Shiva, Teacher must make an unbearable decision, but can their relationship withstand his choice? Beautiful artwork. An intriguing story. I absolutely adore these characters. This volume takes quite the turn. We also get a peek at how…

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Lonely Castle in the Mirror, Vol. 1

Story by Mizuki Tsujimura Illustrated by Tomo Taketomi Translated by Jacqueline Fung 4 stars I watched the anime adaptation and absolutely loved it so of course I had to check out the manga. The first volume did not disappoint. Plagued with intense stomach pains, Kokoro is staying home again. But today is different. Today she…

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The Wild Ones by Megan Lacera & Jorge Lacera

Illustrated by Jorge Lacera 4 stars A short and sweet comics-style picture book. Absolutely adorable. Four friends are convinced there is a monster living in the forest near their shared apartment building, Wild Oaks. They just can’t decide which monster (and their favored snack). When their beloved apartment building is scheduled for demolition, they turn…

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We Are Lion Dancers by Benson Shum

4 stars An adorable story about two siblings learning different aspects of lion dancing, from the costume itself to the accompanying instruments. Sweet, simple, and filled with great information. Adorable illustrations. Such a sweet read. Also includes a note in the back explaining the origins of lion dancing. A wonderful way to learn about lion…

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The Girl from the Other Side: Siúil, A Rún, Vol. 7

by Nagabe Translated by Adrienne Beck 4 stars Another intriguing volume. As danger and violence closes in around them, Shiva and Teacher must decide where to place their trust and determine what lengths they will go to in order to secure their survival. The intensity definitely increases in this volume with the pursuing soldiers, the…

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