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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It Rhymes With Takei by George Takei

Adapted by Steven Scott & Justin Eisinger Illustrated by Harmony Becker 4 stars A great graphic autobiography that explores Takei’s acting career, education, political involvement, friendships, family, sexuality, and activism. Nicely written. This book takes on a lot of material and does not disappoint. A wonderful focus on activism and the joy of living as…

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Huda F Wants to Know? (Huda #3) by Huda Fahmy

5 stars Another hilarious, touching, and insightful story based on Huda Fahmy’s high school experiences. Huda has her whole junior year figured out. At least, she thinks she does. Until her parents announce they’re getting a divorce. Now she’s having a hard time dealing with her grades, her sisters, her parents, and her best friend….

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Villains Are Destined to Die, Vol. 1 by Suol

Original Story by Gwon Gyeoeul Translated by David Odell 4 stars A gorgeously-illustrated, immersive story of romance, danger, and video games. When normal mode proves too easy, it’s time to play Daughter of the Duke’s Super Love Project on hard mode. Unfortunately, that means playing as the villain, Penelope. And when the player wakes up…

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Someone You Can Build a Nest In by John Wiswell

5 stars Romance and gore collide in this surprisingly sweet story that encourages you to slay the real monsters in your life. How do I put into words what this book is about? Shesheshen is a shapeshifter content living away from the human world with her bear companion, eating anyone who disturbs her. But after…

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The Baby Who Stayed Awake Forever by Sandra Salsbury

4 stars A humorous tale of a baby who just won’t go to sleep. Mama, Papa, and Sister have all said good night and are ready for bed, but this baby has no plans of sleeping. Instead, join her adventures complete with a dance party, laughing at her own jokes, singing, climbing, and more. Great…

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Honey, I Love and Other Love Poems by Eloise Greenfield

Illustrated by Diane and Leo Dillon 5 stars A fantastic collection of poetry. Covering topics such as music, death, play, siblings, and history, the poems are paired with expressive illustrations. A perfect balance of joy and relatable issues that are relevant to young readers. I started listing some of my favorites, but honestly each poem…

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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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Eerie Tales from the School of Screams by Graham Annabel

5 stars Delightfully eerie and splendidly spine-tingling. Welcome to the School of Screams where each student in Ms. Nomed’s class has to share an eerie tale. Enjoy five stories of thrills and chills, and a jaw-droppingly good ending. As soon as I got to the last page, I wanted to go back and read it…

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