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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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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Just What to Do by Kyle Lukoff

Illustrated by Hala Tahboub 5 stars An absolutely beautiful story about being there for those you care about when they’re grieving. As different people in his life experience loss, the narrator wants to help them, but they all seem to need different things. The narrator learns there is no one-size-fits-all approach and that just being…

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The Treasure Box by Dave Keane

Illustrated by Rahele Jomepour Bell 5 stars A beautiful story of grief, loss, and remembering. The narrator and her grandfather have a special box of treasures that is all their own. Together, they add to the collection. But when her grandfather passes away, the narrator doesn’t want to open the box anymore; it will just…

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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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Off Menu by Oliver Gerlach

Illustrated by Kelsi Jo Silva 3 stars A nice story of a community coming together to fight unfairness and corruption. Soup grew up in The Brazen Manticore, a restaurant run my the infamous Trysil Heldritch. She loves cooking and being a chef in its kitchen, but when she sees a different side of her boss…

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Timid by Harry Woodgate

3 stars A visually stunning story about shyness, confidence, and the power of friends helping each other. Timmy loves performing in their room, but once they get in front of other people their shyness takes over in the form of a giant lion that roars their confidence away. With the help of their new friend,…

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The Girl from the Other Side: Siúil, A Rún, Vol. 6

by Nagabe Translated by Adrienne Beck 4 stars Abandoning their previous home, Shiva and Teacher have escaped the soliders for now. They travel far to find a new home in an attempt to escape the past. But it always has a way of catching up to them. Another fascinating read. The mysteries continue to build….

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School-Live!, Vol. 1 by Norimitsu Kaihou

Illustrated by Sadoru Chiba Translated by Leighann Harvey 4 stars A slice-of-life adventure following School Living Club members Yuki Takeya, Kurumi Ebisuzawa, Yuuri Wakasa, and their club advisor Megumi Sakura as they go about their daily lives living at Megurigaoka Academy Private High School. From tending the garden, preparing meals, and going to the library,…

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