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The Kids Are All Right

Children’s Books about Pizza, New Releases, and a Shire Candle

Hi Kid Lit Friends!

Today my youngest kid turns 13, and I cannot believe I now have two teenagers at home. Today I am also running my second half marathon! The route involves a couple of loops around the Central Park running path, which is brutally hilly but at least familiar to me since I run that loop often. Wish me luck!

Bookish Goods

The Shire Candle

The Shire Literary Candle by AARKAORIGINS

Calling all Lord of the Rings fans! This candle will bring you right to woodsy magic of the shire. $8

New Releases

Lolo's Light cover

Lolo’s Light by Liz Garton Scanlon (middle grade)

This beautifully written middle grade novel is about that moment in childhood that changes how you think about the world. In Lolo’s case, the thing that happens is really, really sad. And this is the story about how Lolo recovers from that tragedy and finds the courage to move forward.

The Little Book of Joy cover

The Little Book of Joy by His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Archbishop Desmond Tutu, illustrated by Rafael López

This joyful book alternates between the lives of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Archbishop Desmond Tutu and how they found comfort and love in difficult times in their lives.

For more new releases, check out our New Books newsletter!

Riot Recommendations

Pizza is such a universally loved food, and it’s no surprise that it’s often the hero in children’s books!

Pizza My Heart cover

Pizza My Heart by Mika Song (graphic chapter book)

Two squirrels need to get creative in order to get a slice of that gooey, delicious pizza. Will they accomplish their hearts’ desire, even if it means trickery and evading Tomato, the one-eyed cat?

Pizza! A Slice of History cover

Pizza! A Slice of History by Greg Pizzoli (picture book)

This wonderfully informative book about everyone’s favorite food is both fun and funny. Did you know that in the USA, we eat 350 slices of pizza every second? Find out where Pizza Margherita got its name and how pizza differs by country.

The First Cat in Space Ate Pizza cover

The First Cat in Space Ate Pizza by Mac Barnett, illustrated by Shawn Harris (graphic novel)

This cosmically silly graphic novel combines so many things that kids love: cats, space, and pizza! When humans discover that rats are eating the moon, Earth’s last great hope is…a cat? Can this cat save the world?

Every Night is Pizza Night cover

Every Night is Pizza Night by J. Kenji López-Alt, illustrated by Gianna Ruggiero (picture book)

Pipo knows that pizza is the best food in the world, but when she sets out to scientifically prove that fact, she meets so many people in the neighborhood who like different foods. Is pizza better than bibimbap? Better than Moroccan tagine? Maybe the best food is the one that reminds you of home…

Corgi wearing dragon hoodie taking a walk in the park

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

*If this e-mail was forwarded to you, follow this link to subscribe to “The Kids Are All Right” newsletter and other fabulous Book Riot newsletters for your own customized e-mail delivery. Thank you!*

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The Kids Are All Right

Stories of Japanese Internment in WWII, Bookish Stickers, and More!

Dear Kid Lit Friends,

Hello from early November, where the leaves across New York City are changing colors and drifting to the ground. I love the sound of autumn, and I love sitting on the couch under a blanket reading a good book. Is there any better feeling?

Bookish Goods

Easily Distracted by Dogs and Books Sticker

Bookish Stickers by WildOakStickers

I love the collection of bookish stickers available at WildOakStickers’s Etsy page! There are discounts when you buy in bulk, just saying…$3 each.

New Releases

Sisterhood of Sleuths cover

Sisterhood of Sleuths by Jennifer Chambliss Bertman (middle grade)

This new mystery by the Book Scavenger series author is filled with Nancy Drew lore and mystery. When Maizy discovers a box of old Nancy Drew books at her mom’s consignment shop, it leads to lots of questions and the search for the book’s owner. Can Maizy uncover the truth?

Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky graphic novel cover

Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky: The Graphic Novel by Kwame Mbalia, adapted by Robert Venditti, illustrated by Olivia Stephens

In this beautifully rendered graphic novel, the story of Tristan Strong is brought to life in vivid colors. When Tristan is sent to his grandparents’ farm in Alabama to recover from a tragedy, he finds himself in a tug-of-war with an unworldly creature and punches the Bottle Tree which subsequently creates a chasm in the sky and releases all sorts of trouble. Can Tristan find someone who can help him mend the sky and save the world?

For a more comprehensive list of new releases, check out our New Books newsletter.

Riot Recommendations

There have been some really informative new books about Japanese internment during World War II that have come across my desk lately, and I thought I would share them with you!

Love in the Library cover

Love in the Library by Maggie Tokuda-Hall, illustrated by Yas Imamura (picture book)

I adore this picture book about two people who fall in love in the most unlikely of places: Minidoka, a War Relocation Center in the desert. There, Tama works in the camp’s tiny library, and each day George is waiting at the door when the library opens ready to return his book haul and select new stories to check out. Tama has never met such a bookworm! Or is George visiting the library so frequently for a different reason?

Fish for Jimmy cover

Fish for Jimmy by Katie Yamasaki (picture book)

When his younger brother Jimmy stops eating once their family is moved to an internment camp, Taro spends his nights making the risky trip out of the camp to catch fish for Jimmy in hopes that he can tempt his brother to eat.

Seen and Unseen cover

Seen and Unseen: What Dorothea Lange, Toyo Miyatake, and Ansel Adams’s Photographs Reveal About the Japanese American Incarceration by Elizabeth Partridge and Lauren Tamaki (middle grade nonfiction)

This thoroughly researched nonfiction book illuminates an underrepresented topic in American history. During the incarceration of Japanese Americans during World War II, three photographers set out to document life in Manzanar, an internment camp in the California desert. Through their eyes, we see a variety of images that capture what life was like inside the camps.

Peace is a Chain Reaction cover

Peace is a Chain Reaction by Tanya Lee Stone (middle grade nonfiction)

In this heavily researched book, award-winning author Tanya Lee Stone tells the story of two groups of teenagers on opposite sides of the world connected by war who grow up into adults who pursue peace and forgiveness.

Tri-color corgi with red plaid bowtie sitting in the American Eagle store

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

*If this e-mail was forwarded to you, follow this link to subscribe to “The Kids Are All Right” newsletter and other fabulous Book Riot newsletters for your own customized e-mail delivery.

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The Kids Are All Right

Spooky Stories, Bookish Socks, and More!

Hi Kid Lit Friends,

How are we all feeling about Halloween this year? Does anyone have any wonderful bookish themed Halloween costumes? Obviously I would love to see them ALL! Feel free to send me your photos — my contact information is at the bottom!

And…I have an update about Lalo’s therapy dog evaluation. He passed! According to the evaluator, he has a “sparkling personality.” Hooray! Photo at the end of this newsletter. 🙂

Bookish Goods

Bookish Socks by ThisWear

I love a good pair of bookish socks, and these are adorable and perfect for all who love books and nostalgia. $15+

New Releases

The Flamingo cover

The Flamingo by Guojing

I am a huge fan of Guojing (if you couldn’t tell from all the times I’ve recommended Stormy in this very newsletter). In this gorgeous, mostly wordless, chapter book, a young girl goes to visit her Lao Lao by the sea. They collect sea shells and Lao Lao tells stories from her past. This book totally made me cry!

Counting in Dog Years cover

Counting in Dog Years and Other Sassy Math Poems by Betsy Franco, illustrated by Priscilla Tey

This is a silly and funny book about math, written in a way to draw young mathematicians in! Young people will enjoy the funny questions and appreciate how the math is all about what really matters to them.

For a more comprehensive list of new releases, check out our New Books newsletter.

Riot Recommendations

So many young readers love books about the supernatural, and there are so many great choices in this genre!

Cover of Leila the Perfect Witch by Drago

Leila, The Perfect Witch by Flavia Z. Drago (picture book)

I loved Drago’s previous picture book Gustavo: The Shy Ghost, and this one is just as charming and sweet. Leila is a perfect witch — she excels at everything…except for cooking. Thankfully, she has three sisters who don’t mind sharing cooking tips, and Leila learns that she doesn’t have to be good at everything to be accepted.

Hardly Haunted cover

Hardly Haunted by Jessie Sima (picture book)

Written from the perspective of a house who is looking for a family who doesn’t mind her creaky floors and squeaky hinges, this lovely picture book is about finding home with people who love you just the way you are.

Amari and the Night Brothers cover

Amari and the Night Brothers by B.B. Alston (middle grade)

I know so many fans of this book, and it’s no surprise because it has everything that a middle grade reader would want. Mystery? Check. The main character’s nomination to the Bureau of Supernatural Affairs? Check. An evil magician threatening the supernatural world? Check!

The Girl in White cover

The Girl in White by Lindsay Currie

If you’re into extremely creepy, bone chillingly scary books, Lindsay Currie is the author for you! When Mallory moves to Eastport, a town known as the most cursed in all of America, she begins having persistent nightmares of being watched. Then, in a terrifying encounter, she meets the woman from her dreams, and Mallory knows she must face her fears before it’s too late.

Tri-color corgi wearing a red scarf that says, "New York Therapy Animals"

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

*If this e-mail was forwarded to you, follow this link to subscribe to “The Kids Are All Right” newsletter and other fabulous Book Riot newsletters for your own customized e-mail delivery. Thank you!*

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The Kids Are All Right

Corgi Butt Bookmark, Poetry Books, and More!

Hi Kid Lit Friends,

As I’m writing this, I’m helping prepare my dog Lalo for a therapy dog evaluation. By the time this newsletter goes out, we will know whether Lalo has passed the test! It has been a really fun six weeks of learning about therapy animals and training Lalo, and I’m crossing my fingers that he will pass. I’ll include an update next week!

Bookish Goods

Corgi butt felted bookmark

Corgi Butt Felted Bookmark by BenMcFuzzylugs

I mean, come on. How can you resist such a cute bookmark? Also, corgi butts are the cutest. $18

New Releases

Puppy Life cover

Puppy Life: The First Eight Weeks of Bonding, Playing, and Growing by Traer Scott

If you need a little pick me up, pick up this book! My daughter and I looked through it when we were both feeling a little tired, and the book definitely woke us up (probably because with every page turn we had to say “Awwwwww!”). This book follows six different breeds of puppies from birth to eight weeks.

Paws Gabby Gets it Together cover

PAWS: Gabby Gets It Together by Michele Assarasakorn and Nathan Fairbairn

In this Babysitter’s Club-esque graphic novel, three friends, who for different reasons can’t have their own dogs, decide to start a dog walking business. They’ll get to hang out with dogs everyday after school and make money doing it! What could go wrong?

For a more comprehensive list of new releases, check out our New Books newsletter.

Riot Recommendations

A wonderful poem can evoke the strongest emotions. Here are four picture books that use poetry in creative and beautiful ways.

Awe-some Days cover

Awe-some Days: Poems about the Jewish Holidays by Marilyn Singer, illustrated by Dana Wulfekotte

This lovely collection follows a family that decides to celebrate all the Jewish holidays within one year — the holidays they know and the ones they aren’t so familiar with. Join them as they explore new traditions and the history behind them.

Hip Hop Speaks to Children cover

Hip Hop Speaks to Children: A Celebration of Poetry with a Beat edited by Nikki Giovanni, illustrated by Alicia Vergel de Dios, Damian Ward, Kristen Balouch, Jeremy Tugeau, and Michele Noiset

This wonderful collection, edited by the great Nikki Giovanni and illustrated by a number of incredible artists, is sure to get kids excited by rhythm and rhyme. The included CD is a wonderful way to enjoy the poems and is a reminder that poetry is meant to be shared and spoken.

The Hill We Climb cover

The Hill We Climb by Amanda Gorman

I love this book and have given it to many people. It is a story of inspiration and aspiration, written by the now famous Amanda Gorman who delivered this poem at the presidential inauguration of President Joseph Biden.

Poetry for Young People Langston Hughes cover

Poetry for Young People: Langston Hughes edited by David Roessel and Arnold Rampersand, illustrated by Benny Andrews

I adore this collection of Langston Hughes’ poetry combined with the gorgeous illustrations by Benny Andrews. There is also a wonderful forward by acclaimed author Renée Watson.

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

*If this e-mail was forwarded to you, follow this link to subscribe to “The Kids Are All Right” newsletter and other fabulous Book Riot newsletters for your own customized e-mail delivery. Thank you!*

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The Kids Are All Right

New Picture Book Biographies, a Fabulous Library Pin, and More!

Hi Kid Lit Friends,

It definitely feels like autumn around here. We went apple picking last weekend, and this week I baked pumpkin maple muffins and apple pie. The kids are excitedly talking about Halloween costumes and candy. The leaves on the trees are beginning to change in New York City. It’s a fun time!

Bookish Goods

Support Public Libraries pin

Support Public Libraries Pin by MariahDrawsThings

All of my bags are adorned with pins, and I definitely need to add this one to my collection! $13

New Releases

The Area 51 Files cover

The Area 51 Files by Julie Buxbaum

This hilarious and fun middle grade book follows Sky Patel-Baum as she goes to live with her uncle. What she does not expect is to live in Area 51, where her neighbors are aliens and her mac and cheese has eyeballs in it. But something mysterious is afoot in Area 51 when aliens — called Break Throughs — start going missing…and people start pointing fingers at Sky. Can she clear her name and find the missing Break Throughs?

Jasmine Toguchi Brave Explorer cover

Jasmine Toguchi: Brave Explorer by Debbi Michiko Florence, illustrated by Elizabet Vukovic

This Tuesday, the new Jasmine Toguchi book comes out. Hooray! In the fifth book in this delightful chapter book series, Jasmine is ready to board a plane and head to Japan! But traveling is not very fun when your sister is a grump, and then Jasmine realizes that Japan is very different from where she grew up and she keeps on making mistakes and feeling foolish. Is Jasmine brave enough to explore a new country?

For a more comprehensive list of new releases, check out our New Books newsletter.

Riot Recommendations

I have been getting so many wonderful picture book biographies lately! This is definitely one of my favorite genres, and I have learned so much from these books already.

Bessie the Motorcycle Queen cover

Bessie the Motorcycle Queen by Charles R. Smith Jr., illustrated by Charlot Kristensen

In 1929, when she was 19 years old, Bessie got on her motorcycle and traveled the country. She would flip a penny on a map to decide where she was going. She learned how to service her own motorcycle and faced discrimination and danger on the road. But despite the setbacks, she continued to ride and founded the Iron Horse Motorcycle Club to connect with other riders.

A Life of Service The Story of Senator Tammy Duckworthy cover

A Life of Service: The Story of Senator Tammy Duckworth by Christina Soontornvat, illustrated by Dow Phumiruk

In this picture book biography, Thai creators Christina Soontornvat and Dow Phumiruk tell the inspiring story of Tammy Duckworth. Born in Thailand, Tammy grew up moving from place to place because of her dad’s job at the United Nations. But when her dad loses his job, they use the last of their savings to move to Hawaii. Through hard work and perseverance, she finished college and graduate school and enlisted in the army to serve her country. In Baghdad, her helicopter was hit, and her injuries were nearly fatal. After a long and painful recovery, Tammy wanted to continue serving her country and she eventually became the first Thai American woman elected to Congress.

Dressing Up the Stars: The Story of Movie Costume Designer Edith Head by Jeanne Walker Harvery, illustrated by Diana Toledano

I loved this story of Edith Head. As a young girl, she grew up in the small mining town of Searchlight, Nevada. She spent her days in the desert dressing up her toys, pets, wild animals, and even a cactus! When she grew up and moved to California for high school, Edith continued to make costumes, eventually landing jobs in Hollywood and dressing the most famous stars of her time.

I Am Ruby Bridges cover

I Am Ruby Bridges by Ruby Bridges, illustrated by Nikkolas Smith

In her own words, Ruby Bridges tells her story of what it was like to be the first African American student to integrate the school system in the south at the age of 6. I loved Nikkolas Smith’s stunning and moving illustrations in this new picture book that shares an incredible and important part of American history.

The Girl Who Built an Ocean cover

The Girl Who Built an Ocean by Jess Keating, illustrated by Michelle Mee Nutter (Knopf, October 25)

This vividly illustrated picture book tells the story of Jeanne Villepreux-Power, a dressmaker in Paris who found a deep connection with the ocean. When observing sea creatures, she realized that it would be so much better to bring a piece of the ocean back with her so she could study it more. She ended up building the world’s first aquarium, paving the way for scientists to study the ocean in a new way.

Tri-color corgi lying on couch and giving the side eye

Do you have a favorite book that you think should be on Matilda’s reading list?

Matilda, the character in Roald Dahl’s famous book of the same name, is getting her own Netflix musical! To celebrate, between October 1 and November 13, 2022, educators and families are invited to visit https://bit.ly/MatildaReadingList to make the case for which of their favorite books Matilda should read next. The final reading list will be announced in late November 2022.

Find me on Twitter at @KarinaYanGlaser, on Instagram at @KarinaIsReadingAndWriting, or email me at KarinaBookRiot@gmail.com.

Until next time!

Karina

*If this e-mail was forwarded to you, follow this link to subscribe to “The Kids Are All Right” newsletter and other fabulous Book Riot newsletters for your own customized e-mail delivery. Thank you!

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The Kids Are All Right

New Middle Grade Fantasy, Jasmine Warga’s New Middle Grade (!!!), and More!

Hi Kid Lit Friends!

I hope you are all enjoying the start of October! For us, autumn means apple picking, maple pumpkin muffins, apple pies, and trying to see as much of the beautiful New England foliage as possible. It is the best season!

Bookish Goods

Mug with a Ghost Reading

Bookish Halloween Coffee Mug by MelioraStore

As the weather cools, I always reach for the warm beverages: tea, apple cider, and hot chocolate! Get in the Halloween spirit with this great mug. $10+

New Releases

The Real Dada Mother Goose cover

The Real Dada Mother Goose: A Treasury of Complete Nonsense by Jon Scieszka, illustrated by Julia Rothman

If you like upside down nursery rhymes, this is the book for you! Jon Scieszka outdoes himself with a collection of truly strange and wonderful takes on classic nursery rhymes. Paired with Julia Rothman’s fantastic illustrations, this is a great addition to any library.

A Rover's Story cover

A Rover’s Story by Jasmine Warga

I adore Jasmine Warga’s books, and this one is no exception. Res the Rover was built to explore Mars, and he was not meant to have human emotions. But as he is being built, he starts to have human feelings. And when he lands on Mars, he finds it filled with peril. Will he live up to all of the expectations of the millions of people watching him from Earth?

For a more comprehensive list of new releases, check out our New Books newsletter.

Riot Recommendations

There have been so many fantastic middle grade fantasy books hitting the shelves this year. Here are just a few of the notable ones that have crossed my desk! (There are so many more!)

Onyeka and the Academy of the Sun cover

Onyeka and the Academy of the Sun by Tolá Okogwu

This adventure stars a British Nigerian girl who learns that her hair has psychokinetic powers. When her mom discovers Onyeka’s powers, she is shipped to the Academy of the Sun in Nigeria. But as often happens when attending a school for people with magical powers, nothing is what it seems, and it’s up to Onyeka to find out the truth.

The Lost Ryu cover

The Lost Ryū by Emi Watanabe Cohen

Kohei Fujiwara knows all about the big ryū, dragons that disappeared from Japan after World War II. But Kohei has never seen one before, and when his grandfather is sick, Kohei knows he needs to find a big ryū before it’s too late.

A Taste of Magic cover

A Taste of Magic by J. Elle

When Kyana discovers she’s a witch, she begins to attend Park Row Magick Academy on Saturdays, which is hidden in the back of a local beauty shop. But trouble brews when the school might lose their funding, and Kyana needs to figure out how to make money, and fast. If the school disbands, they could all lose their magic forever.

Crown of Flames cover

Crown of Flames by Sayantani DasGupta

In the second book of the Kingdom Beyond series, Pinki is back, only this time she is called to be the leader of the resistance. Pinki, however, definitely does not want to be a leader. Can she summon the courage to step up and fight evil? This is another thrilling series from bestselling author Sayantani DasGupta!

A corgi and a cat sleeping next to each other on a couch

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

*If this e-mail was forwarded to you, follow this link to subscribe to “The Kids Are All Right” newsletter and other fabulous Book Riot newsletters for your own customized e-mail delivery. Thank you!*https://www.instagram.com/karinaisreadingandwriting/

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The Kids Are All Right

Great New Chapter Books, a Bookish Tie, and More!

Hi Kid Lit Friends!

Welcome to October! This is probably one of my favorite months. In New York City, the leaves are beginning to change and that crisp air wakes me up after the hot weather sluggishness of summer. Also, it’s apple cider donut season!

Bookish Goods

Library Due Date Men's Tie

Library Due Date Tie by Cyberoptix

I love getting holiday shopping done early, and I already have an idea of who I’m giving this to! $40+

New Releases

Brown is Beautiful cover

Brown is Beautiful by Supriya Kelkar, illustrated by Noor Sofi (picture book)

I love this picture book of a young Indian-American girl who celebrates the color brown as she goes on a nature walk.

A Library cover

A Library by Nikki Giovanni, illustrations by Erin K. Robinson

Check out this gorgeous cover! This lyrical picture book is an ode to the power of a library as a gateway to other worlds and as a place that celebrates the power of words. Each page turn is a thing of beauty!

For a more comprehensive list of new releases, check out our New Books newsletter.

Riot Recommendations

Chapter books are a wonderful thing. The time when we first get introduced to chapter books is often the stage in a person’s life when they fall in love with books, and these new chapter books are a great addition to any library. These chapter books are the perfect read aloud books and are also great for newly independent readers.

Too Small Tola and the Three Fine Girls cover

Too Small Tola and the Three Fine Girls by Atinuke, illustrated by Onyinye Iwu

In the city of Lagos in the country of Nigeria, Too Small Tola and her two siblings and Grandmummy live together and have lots of adventures. In this set of three stories, Tola is given a great gift from her grandmother and finds joy in helping her family every day.

A Sliver of Moon and a Shard of Truth cover

A Sliver of Moon and a Shard of Truth: Stories from India by Chitra Soundar

In a follow up to Mangoes, Mischief, and Tales of Friendship, these stories based on Indian folklore follow Prince Veera and his best friend Suku as they encounter secrets, tricksters and riddles. This is a fun book to read aloud or for newly independent readers! (The illustrations are so fun!)

Rica Baptista Llamas Iguanas and My Very Best Friend cover

Rica Baptista: Llamas, Iguanas, and My Very Best Friend by Janet Costa Bates, illustrated by Gladys Jose

This book is right up my alley because it’s about kids who want PETS! Rica really wants a pet— anything will do, she’s not picky!— but her parents are strongly opposed. Can Rica convince her parents that she has everything it takes to care for an animal?

Ways to Share Joy cover

Ways to Share Joy by Renee Watson

This is the third book in the Ryan Hart series, and I just love Ryan Hart and her imaginative mind and her positive attitude! In this book, Ryan finds herself in the middle with her family and her friends. She tries to make everyone happy, which strangely enough makes no one happy! Can Ryan find ways to share joy even when nothing seems to be going right?

Corgi puppy sleeping on his back

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

*If this e-mail was forwarded to you, follow this link to subscribe to “The Kids Are All Right” newsletter and other fabulous Book Riot newsletters for your own customized e-mail delivery. Thank you!*

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The Kids Are All Right

Middle Grade Novels in Verse, Book Earrings, and More!

Hi Kid Lit friends,

I write this from the middle of book tour, where I am hopping on planes, checking into hotels, and meeting thousands of kids and awesome librarians and teachers. It is so fun to celebrate a new book this way!

Bookish Goods

Book earrings

Book Earrings by ArtsyYellowRoom

I adore these book earrings! They are just what you need to show your love for books! $16

New Releases

Sweet and Sour book

Sweet and Sour by Debbi Michiko Florence (middle grade)

Debbi Michiko Florence is a master of tween lit, and her new novel is no exception! Sweet and Sour is all about the friendship turmoil that can happen in the pre-teen years. This is a story of Mai and her used-to-be-best-friend Zach. When they are thrown together again one summer, they both have to face the incident that caused their friendship to fall apart.

Berry Song book

Berry Song by Michaela Goade (picture book)

Michaela Goade is one of my favorite illustrators, and this is her first self-authored picture book. Berry Song is a love letter to life on an island and the seasons that bring gifts from the forest.

For a more comprehensive list of new releases, check out our New Books newsletter.

Riot Recommendations

Novels-in-verse are some of my favorite books. Check out these middle grade books and let me know what you think.

Planet Middle School cover

Planet Middle School by Nikki Grimes

No one does novels-in-verse like Nikki Grimes! In this beautiful book set in middle school, 12-year-old Joylin Johnson finds her world in disarray. Her friends are suddenly flirting with each other, basketball isn’t the same, and a new kid arrives that gives Joy all sorts of feelings. Will Joy survive middle school?

Jordan J and the Truth About Jordan J cover

Jordan J and the Truth About Jordan J by K.A. Holt

In the third book in The Kids Under the Stairs series, Jordan J *might* have made enemies of the entire school dance team due to his honest reviews of their dances in the school paper. But with his goal of making it onto his favorite dance show, he needs help and appeals to the only dance team member who is still talking to him. Can Jordan make his dream come true?

Red, White, and Whole cover

Red, White, and Whole by Rajani LaRocca

Newbery Honoree Rajani LaRocca pens a beautiful novel-in-verse about Reha, the only Indian American student at her school. Reha is torn between her family, with their traditions and high expectations of her, and school, where she feels different and unable to share who she really is. But when her mom gets really sick, she knows she needs to do everything in her power to help her mom get better.

In the Beautiful Country by Jane Kuo

Anna leaves her home in Taiwan for the “beautiful country,” the Chinese word for America. But moving to a new place is so much harder than she ever dreamed, especially when her parents struggle with making enough money and Anna struggles with the language and encounters bullies at school. This is an honest book about the challenges of being an immigrant in America.

A Seed in the Sun cover

A Seed in the Sun by Aida Salazar (Dial, 10/25/22)

In this compelling story by Aida Salazar, a young girl named Lula Viramontes is a farm worker alongside her family in California in 1965. Her dreams include joining a Mexican traveling circus, but such dreams seem far away when she spends her days in dangerous working conditions. When she meets labor rights activists, she realizes that she might have bigger dreams than she ever realized.

Tri-color corgi wearing a bow tie looking up for a treat

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

*If this e-mail was forwarded to you, follow this link to subscribe to “The Kids Are All Right” newsletter and other fabulous Book Riot newsletters for your own customized e-mail delivery. Thank you!*

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The Kids Are All Right

The New Vanderbeekers Book, Book Art, and More!

Hi Kid Lit Friends,

As I write this, I am getting ready to go on book tour! For children’s book authors, a tour is put together by the publisher and consists of school visits and bookstore events. It’s very fun and a great way to celebrate the launch of a book!

Bookish Goods

Pages in a book folded to create a name

Book Spine Art by EmilysFoldedBooks

I’ve always loved folded spine art. This would be a wonderful gift for a book lover! $55

New Releases

My Diwali Light cover

My Diwali Light by Raakhee Mirchandani, illustrated by Supriya Kelkar

This beautiful picture book is a celebration of the Diwali season. Devi wears her favorite red bindi and feasts on delicious samosas. I love this story of family traditions and love.

The Last Kids on Earth and the Forbidden Fortress by Max Brallier cover

The Last Kids on Earth and the Forbidden Fortress by Max Brallier

The newest book in the Last Kids series is here! This time, the group is all together again to battle the evil Thrull and a new villain.

For a more comprehensive list of new releases, check out our New Books newsletter.

Riot Recommendations

There are always so many great new middle grade books that come out in the fall. Here are some that I’m excited about!

Merci Suarez Plays It Cool cover

Merci Suarez Plays It Cool by Meg Medina

In the third book in her Merci Suarez series, Newbery award-winning author Meg Medina continues the Suarez family story as Merci heads into eighth grade. There are changes at school and at home — can Merci handle the shifting tides?

Always, Clementine cover

Always, Clementine by Carlie Sorosiak

As you know, I love a good animal story. Here, Clementine is a certified mouse genius. She lives in a lab where scientists perform tests on her. Clementine’s only social interaction are with a chimpanzee named Rosie. But when Clementine is freed, she discovers a whole new world outside her cage.

Ways to Share Joy cover

Ways to Share Joy by Renee Watson

Renee Watson’s Ryan Hart series is so lovely, and I’m excited that the third book is coming out on September 27! In this book, Ryan is being pulled in different directions — by her family and by her friends. Can Ryan continue to find joy and share it with those she meets?

Lotus Bloom and the Afro Revolution cover

Lotus Bloom and the Afro Revolution by Sherri Winston

First of all, isn’t this cover fabulous? This is the story about wonderful Lotus Bloom, a seventh grader, a violinist, and a new student at a school for the arts where she has the opportunity to play the violin under a famous maestro. But the new school isn’t all she’s dreamed it to be, especially when boys throw paper planes and spit balls into her hair, and Lotus gets in trouble for a dress code violation. Can Lotus find the words to speak up for herself without endangering all that she’s worked for?

The Vanderbeekers on the Road cover

The Vanderbeekers on the Road by Karina Yan Glaser

One last note! The next book in the Vanderbeeker series, The Vanderbeekers on the Road, is on sale this Tuesday! In this installment, the Vanderbeekers squeeze into a van and head across the country to California. What could go wrong?

Find me on Twitter at @KarinaYanGlaser, on Instagram at @KarinaIsReadingAndWriting, or email me at KarinaBookRiot@gmail.com.

Until next time,
Karina

*If this e-mail was forwarded to you, follow this link to subscribe to “The Kids Are All Right” newsletter and other fabulous Book Riot newsletters for your own customized e-mail delivery. Thank you!*

Categories
The Kids Are All Right

New Graphic Novels, a Bookshelf to Display Picture Books, and More!

Hi Kid Lit Friends,

Happy September from rainy New York City. I don’t even remember the last time we got rain here, so this is a welcome weather pattern. My kids began school this week — my youngest began 7th grade and my oldest began high school! How time goes by so quickly!

Bookish Goods

Bookshelves mounted to wall displaying picture books

Bookshelf Display by BarnOwlWoodworkingCo

These handy, wall mounted shelves are perfect for a children’s bedroom, classroom, or library. I love how you can see the covers of the books! $55+

New Releases

My Town / Mi Pueblo cover

My Town / Mi Pueblo by Nicholas Solis and Luisa Uribe

Set in two border towns — one on the United States border and the other on the Mexico border — two cousins travel back and forth to see each other. They notice differences between their two homes and similarities. This is a beautiful book that celebrates border towns.

Spy School Project X cover

Spy School: Project X by Stuart Gibbs

Ben Ripley is back, and he’s in massive trouble! This time, his longtime nemesis Murray Hill has not only put a price on his head but also named him as the leader of an online conspiracy theory. As he is targeted from multiple sides, can Ben clear his name and be free from Murray Hill once and for all?

For a more comprehensive list of new releases, check out our New Books newsletter.

Riot Recommendations

There are so many new graphic novels available these days! Here are some new ones to add to your list.

Twin Cities cover

Twin Cities by Jose Pimienta

This graphic novel is filled with gorgeous artwork depicting two border towns: one on the Mexico border and one on the United States border (like with My Town/Mi Pueblo!). Twins Luis Fernando and Luisa Teresa find themselves going to different schools for the first time in the lives. Their schools aren’t even in the same country! Luisa Teresa crosses the border everyday to go to a new private school while Luis Fernando stays in Mexicali and ends up befriending a boy he’s not so sure about. Can these twins make it through the school year even as they grow apart?

Invisible cover

Invisible by Christina Diaz Gonzalez and Gabriela Epstein

Five kids are grouped together for their school’s community service project, and the only thing they have in common is that they speak Spanish. When a new kid arrives and needs their help, will they work together to do the right thing?

Ride On by Faith Erin Hicks cover

Ride On by Faith Erin Hicks

Victoria has loved horses her whole life, but the competitive spirit in the stables she trains with has gotten to be too much for her. After a massive fight with her best friend, Victoria decides it’s time for a new start… and a new stable.

Miss Quinces cover

Miss Quinces by Kat Fajardo

Sue wants a normal summer. She wants to go to camp and make comics with her friends. But when she has to go to Honduras instead — to a place with no internet! — and her mom says they are throwing her a quinceañera, Sue is certain that this is the worst summer ever.

Freestyle cover

Freestyle by Gale Galligan (Scholastic, 10/18)

As Cory enters his final year of middle school, his group of friends are ready to do whatever it takes to win the biggest dance competition. But then Cory’s grades fall and he needs a tutor, he’s upset to learn it’ll be Sunna, one of his classmates. They don’t like each other one bit!

Orange and white tabby cat sleeping

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

*If this e-mail was forwarded to you, follow this link to subscribe to “The Kids Are All Right” newsletter and other fabulous Book Riot newsletters for your own customized e-mail delivery. Thank you!*