Hi Kid Lit Friends,
Some exciting news in the publishing world this week! Linda Sue Park is launching a new imprint with HarperCollins called Allida. Named for the Korean word that means “to inform, announce, or make known,” this new imprint will encourage marginalized writers and artists to explore the stories they’re most passionate about and craft narratives that defy expectations. Led by the wonderful Linda Sue Park and Anne Hoppe, look for titles coming in early 2023. I’m so excited!
Storybook “Eatable” Cupcake Toppers by MerryGoSweets
How adorable are these edible mini children’s books? These would be perfect for a baby shower or birthday party or book launch! $15 – $25 for a set of 12.
New Releases
American Desi by Jyoti Rajan Gopal, illustrated by Supriya Kelkar
I love this celebratory picture book about what it means to grow up first and second generation Indian American. In this story, a young girl straddles two cultural worlds. I love how illustrator Supriya Kelkar incorporates both American and Indian fabrics in her artwork!
The Fort by Gordon Korman (June 28, Scholastic)
This book marks Gordon Korman’s 100th published book!!! How amazing is that?
When a hurricane goes through the town of Canaan, there is widespread destruction. When eighth grade friends meet to look at the wreckage, they find a strange trap door that’s appeared in the middle of the woods — the door to an old bomb shelter, unearthed by the hurricane. They vow to keep the place a secret, but it’s harder than they think…
For a more comprehensive list, check out our New Books newsletter.
Riot Recommendations
In celebration of Linda Sue’s new imprint, here are some of my favorite books by her!
A Single Shard by Linda Sue Park (middle grade)
I love all of Linda Sue’s books, but this one holds a special place in my heart. My family listened to this as an audiobook while on a road trip many years ago, and I still remember being so absorbed in the story as we traveled mile after mile. Set in 12th century Korea, an orphan struggles to pay off his debt to a master potter.
The One Thing You’d Save by Linda Sue Park, illustrated by Robert Sae-Heng (chapter book)
I adore heavily illustrated books, and this one is a winner. The story begins when a teacher asks her class what one thing they would save in an emergency. This sets off a very lively discussion about what each person holds dear.
Bee-Bim Bop! by Linda Sue Park, illustrated by Ho Baek Lee (picture book)
This cheerful book about a young girl helping her mom make bee-bim bop is one of my favorite picture books! I love how this story walks the reader through all the steps of preparing a delicious meal. A recipe is included!
What are you reading these days? Let me know! Find me on Twitter at @KarinaYanGlaser, on Instagram at @KarinaIsReadingAndWriting, or email me at KarinaBookRiot@gmail.com.
Until next time,
Karina
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