Tiana’s Perfect Plan by Anika Noni Rose

Illustrated by Olivia Duchess 5 stars A sweet new story, perfect for revisiting Tiana, Naveen, and all their friends in New Orleans. Tiana’s in-laws are joining them for the Mardi Gras celebration. Wanting everything to be just right, Tiana sets out to obtain a special ingredient to make the perfect dessert, a king-and-queen cake. Things…

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Strange Buildings by Uketsu (Strange Houses #2)

Translated by Jim Rion 5 stars Another unsettling exploration of truths revealed through a complex web of diary entries, interviews, magazine articles, and floorplans. After the popularity of Strange Houses within the novel, the author receives a variety of additional cases related to unique floorplans, strange renovations, and odd buildings. As he explores the stories,…

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Brave Molly by Brooke Boynton-Hughes

5 stars A heartfelt, wordless tale that shows that bravery is being scared and doing it anyway. Molly is an introvert and mostly keeps to herself, but when she sees some kids talking about books, she longs to join in. The only problem? There’s a monster that follows her everywhere she goes. When Molly tries…

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Julián Is a Mermaid by Jessica Love

5 stars Another one of those books it took me way too long to get around to reading, but I am so glad I finally did. Such a sweet, simple story about being yourself and accepting others. I loved the soothing artwork. Beautiful colors. I also love the diversity of the characters in terms of…

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A Most Unusual Princess (Cursed Princess Club #1)

by Michelle Knudsen 5 stars I absolutely love the Cursed Princess Club graphic novels. Because of that, I was a little nervous to read the novelization of the series, but Knudsen did not disappoint. She perfectly captures the characters and provides humorous descriptions and narration that matches the original imagery. I haven’t read the first…

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The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas

5 stars It took me way too long to start reading this but I am so glad I finally did. A hard-hitting and heartfelt book of family, human connection, grief, activism, and empowerment. Wonderfully written. This book evokes so many emotions: joy, sorrow, guilt, anger. There are so many difficult topics including death, police shootings,…

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Lu and Ren’s Guide to Geozoology by Angela Hsieh

5 stars A beautiful story of family, friendship, and adventure. When Ah-ma doesn’t return from her latest geozoological adventure, Lu sets out to find her in time to see the sunfish eclipse together. Along the way, she’ll use what she’s learned from her grandmother to identify the fascinating geofauna she encounters and help restore balance…

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Where There Is Love: A Story in African Proverbs

by Shauntay Grant Illustrated by Letícia Moreno 5 stars A delightfully cozy story of a young girl’s visit to Nana’s house filled with good food, good music, and good conversation. Nicely written with straight-forward text. I love how the proverbs are worked into the story as the girl shares what she has learned at Nana’s…

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Cursed Princess Club Volume Five by LambCat

5 stars I love this series and this volume did not disappoint. Gwen’s family life and the Cursed Princess Club collide as she hosts a dinner party at her home. The CPC will have to be on their best behavior while also carrying out a secret mission of their own – to learn more about…

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