Sponsored by the Oni Lion Forge Publishing Group.
This winter, let a cheerleading axolotl brighten your spirits with Katie O’Neill’s Dewdrop; go questing with a reclusive wizerd, an energetic warrior princess, and an eager archer in Michael Sweater and Rachel Dukes The Wizerd: And the Potion of Dreams!; laugh as a crew of aliens mistakenly conquer an earthly amusement park in Yehudi Mercado’s Fun Fun Fun World; and embrace your differences with a “scary fairy” who learns that creepy and cute make a great combination in Frankie and the Creepy Cute Critters by Caitlin Rose Boyle. Find these and more kidlit reads from Oni Lion Forge in stores now!
Hi readers!
Happy Election Day! As we’ve said before at Book Riot, all books are political, and this week’s newsletter (this intro at least) is, too. We’ve endorsed Joe Biden for President. When writing up this newsletter each week it’s always my intention to draw your eye to a wide range of books that are not only great reads but also encourage inclusion, respect, and care, and we deserve those same intentions from our elected officials, including our president. Once you’ve cast your vote in today’s election (or even if you have already), treat yourself to some nice reading while you wait for results and consider adding some of this week’s children’s new releases to your shelves.
The Little Mermaid by Jerry Pinkney
From a classic author comes this retelling of a classic tale that replaces the love story with a friendship one instead. When mermaid Melody spots a girl on shore and wants to befriend her, the Sea Witch offers to exchange Melody a pair of legs for her voice. But when the Sea Witch attacks the kingdom Melody left behind, she must go back and help save the day.
A Stranger Comes to Town by Maria Kristjandottir
It still feels a little early for wintry books to me (what is time? what are seasons?) but there will be snow soon enough (and some of us already got some). This fun, wintry read is set in an Icelandic town where Henry discovers a lost polar bear and must find a way to get it home.
A Sweet Meeting on Mimouna Night by Allison Ofanansky and Rotem Teplow
This is a sweet read set in Morocco, where Miriam and her family celebrate Mimouna, a holiday that takes place as Passover ends. This is a nice introduction for kids who might be unfamiliar and a sweet celebratory read for Jewish kids who celebrate.
Ten Ways to Hear Snow by Cathy Camper and Kenard Pak
More snow! More winter! Plus grandmas! In this tranquil and loving book, Lina counts the ways to hear snow, the way her grandma (who is losing her sight) now experiences the remnants of a snow storm.
A Girl Named Rosita: The Story of Rita Moreno: Actor, Singer, Dancer, Trailblazer! by Anika Aldamuy Denise, illustrated by Leo Espinosa
I love a good picture book biography, and this one about iconic performer Rita Moreno is fun, colorful, and inspiring. It tracks Moreno’s childhood to an acting career where she was asked to portray numerous stereotypes to her Oscar win for West Side Story.
Stick With Me by Jennifer Blecher
This middle grade read is a great friendship story about girls navigating their complicated social sphere. Though Phoebe and Izzy have been friends for years, they aren’t anymore. Phoebe’s hanging around with Daphne, who’s popular but mean and who always makes a point to exclude Izzy. When Izzy’s parents announce they’re renting out their house for a week, Izzy meets Wren and has the potential for a new friend, though their first meeting hits a snag.
Serena Says by Tanita S. Davis
This middle school novel is about friendship and coming into oneself. When Serena’s best friend starts spending more time with another girl in their class, Serena begins to feel left out. In an effort to focus on something else, Serena starts a vlog where she pours out her feelings and begins to rebuild her confidence and self-worth.
Until next week!
Chelsea (@ChelseaBigBang)