Chang’e on the Moon (Everlasting Tales #1) by Katrina Moore

Illustrated by Cornelia Li 5 stars A gorgeous retelling of the story of Chang’e and how she became the moon goddess. The story focuses on Chang’e’s courage, kindness, and love of the Earth, and her relationship with her husband, Hou Yi. Well-told. The book wonderfully presents the tale’s action, romance, and lessons of kindness, selflessness,…

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The Secret of the Jade Bangle (The Nguyen Kids #1) by Linda Trinh

Illustrated by Clayton Nguyen 4 stars A heartwarming story of family, tradition, loss, and connection. In the first book in The Nguyen Kids series, we follow Anne, the eldest Nguyen sibling. After the passing of her beloved grandmother, Anne inherits her iconic jade bracelet. But this bracelet has a secret. Follow Anne as she uncovers…

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Little Bird Laila by Kelly Yang

Illustrated by Xindi Yan 5 stars A touching story filled with sweet moments and delightful humor. Laila is used to translating things from English to Chinese for her parents. But one day, she decides to do something bigger. She sets out to teach them English. Together, the family learns from one another, figuring out all…

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The Rainbow Parade: A Celebration of LGBTQIA+ Identities and Allies

By Shane Jordan and Rick Hendrix Illustrated by Jieting Chen Back matter by Christy L. Olezeski, PhD. 4 stars A sweet, inclusive book encouraging readers to be true to themselves and support others. Beautiful, vibrant illustrations wonderfully capture themes of color, joy, and diversity. Includes some great backmatter on the importance of compassion, pride, empathy,…

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My Moms Love Me by Anna Membrino

Illustrated by Joy Hwang Ruiz 4 stars A sweet picture book following a family through their day and showcasing how they show their love. From a trip to the farm and car singalongs to bath time and watching a storm, baby loves spending time with their two mothers and feeling their love. Lovely, soft, calming…

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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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Lion Dancers by Cai Tse

3.5 stars Wei has always loved lion dancing. But after his father’s death, Wei quits his team and gives up on his dream. Years later, Wei gets a second chance at lion dancing. Will he be able to push through all of the obstacles to do what he loves? A nice story about what it…

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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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Kamala Raised Her Hand by Raakhee Mirchandani

Illustrated by Supriya Kelkar 4 stars A beautiful picture book biography of Kamala Harris to inspire action and helping others regardless of how old you are. Follows Harris’ life and highlights her actions to stand up for herself and others in her childhood, in college, and as an adult. While the text is brief, it…

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