Maybe Something Beautiful: How Art Transformed a Neighborhood

by F. Isabel Campoy and Theresa Howell Illustrated by Rafael López 5 stars Absolutely gorgeous. A spectacular picture books inspired by the real-life Urban Art Trail in San Diego. An art-loving child does her best to bring color to her neighbors by sharing her art. But it isn’t until she teams up with a muralist…

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Mango, Abuela, and Me by Meg Medina

Illustrated by Angela Dominguez 5 stars A heartwarming story of a girl, her grandmother, and their pet parrot. This was such a sweet book. At first, when Mia’s grandmother moves in, they have a hard time understanding each other. Mia doesn’t know much Spanish and her grandmother doesn’t know much English. But together, they teach…

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Bendy and the Silver Screams (Bendy Original Graphic Novels #2)

by Dave Scheidt Illustrated by Alex Arizmendi 5 stars A fascinating story with eerie elements and unsettling moments. Andi loves all things horror-related. So when she lands a job at the local theater where she can watch all the horror films she wants, it’s a dream come true. Then strange things begin happening around the…

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Uncle Bobby’s Wedding by Sarah S. Brannen

Illustrated by Lucia Soto 5 stars A delightfully sweet story of a young girl and her favorite uncle. When Uncle Bobby’s announces he’s getting married, Chloe isn’t so sure. She wants him to keep having fun with her. But as she spends more time with him and his fiancé, Jamie, she sees that having two…

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The Invisible Parade by Leigh Bardugo

Illustrated by John Picacio 4 stars While her family prepares for Dia de Muertos, Cala does not feel like celebrating. She misses her grandfather and can’t stop thinking of him. At the cemetery, Cala is separated from her family and encounters some mysterious horsemen that give her some valuable insight. A fascinating representation of the…

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Popo the Xolo by Paloma Angelina Lopez

Illustrated by Abraham Matias 4 stars A stunning story of a woman’s journey through the nine levels of Mictlān with the guidance of her Xoloitzcuintle, Popo. Wonderfully written. Nana’s journey includes her own version of the nine levels of Mictlān, including a river, a path of obsidian, snow, and strong winds. Her trials are gentler…

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When Aidan Became a Brother by Kyle Lukoff

Illustrated by Kaylani Juanita 5 stars An adorable story about being a good sibling and helping to make a world where people can be themselves. Growing up, Aidan didn’t feel like the girl people told him he was. Once he told his parents, they helped him let his true self shine. Now Mom and Dad…

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