Here are some of our staff's favorite recent reads for kids!
Set in post-war Japan, 10-year-old Kohei goes on a journey to find a full-sized dragon in order to make his grandfather smile again and makes discoveries about his own father along the way. Full of history and a touch of fantasy, this book is full of heart.
Recommended by Becky. For readers ages 8-12.
Two award-winning children's book author/illustrators team up for this stunning picture book about a girl named Alice who discovers worlds inside the pages of a book. The illustrations are stunning and will suck you into the pages right alongside Alice.
Recommended by Becky
This is a perfect read-aloud for the whole family. I read it with my son and we both loved it and have since given it as gifts to almost every family we know! It's a bit reminiscent of Winnie the Pooh. Each chapter is its own adventure, each character uniquely quirky. This is bound to become a classic! The sequel - Just Beyond the Very Far North - is JUST as wonderful.
Recommended by Becky for kids ages 7-12
An odyssey-like adventure full of magic and wonder. A journey that brings Osmo empathy and understanding. All the characters are so funny and wonderful. A great family read-aloud!
When I pick up a book by Levithan, I know I'm going to get a story that is written with quiet tenderness and genuine heart. Answers in the Pages is an extremely timely novel centered around a book being challenged in a fifth grade class for portraying two boys that may or may not be in love-- and if they were, would that really be so bad? I implore readers young and old to read this one-- I was moved to tears by the intertwining points of view that weave this tale together.
Recommended by Andrew for readers ages 8 - 12
Jack and Birdie have lost their mother and are bounced between two uncles who couldn't be more different - especially their approach to brother Birdie's preference for glitter and boas. Exquisite portrayal of family!
Recommended by Christy for kids ages 10 and up.
After learning that an old family member was both an anthropology professor and collector of Bigfoot evidence, author Krantz dives right into the woods with several sasquatch seekers on a straightforward and scientific mission: Is there something to the Bigfoot phenomenon? From modern research methods to revisiting ancient stories of the elusive species, The Search for Sasquatch is a fantastic guide for young readers curious about cryptids, exploring how part of the fascination and passion for them comes from chasing both the possibilities and the unknown.
Recommended by Andrew for kids ages 8 - 13
After Noah's best friend passes away, he decides to continue their science project on Mothman, the infamous cryptid. As Noah processes his grief, he writes letters to Mothman-- about being trans, autistic, and feeling different from other kids. After all, Mothman is misunderstood too; he may understand Noah better than anyone. Dear Mothman is often poignant, but so sweet, thoughtful, and full of healing and growth. This book left a big, mysterious handprint on my heart that's here to stay.
Recommended by Andrew for ages 10 & up
A baby sea otter and a dachshund puppy are accidental runaways-- Oliver from his momma, and Franklin from his human, Lucy. After an oil spill in Puget Sound brings them together, this unlikely duo puts their paws together, determined to help each other find their way home. A quick-paced, otter-ly adorable adventure of friendship, filled with heart and charm worthy of a Disney film.
Recommended by Andrew for kids ages 8 - 12
There is a long history of war and anger between elves and goblins, and it's up to two well-mannered scholars to figure it all out. Anderson's writing is hilarious and Yelchin's art is beautiful. This book just keeps rolling and keeps you guessing.
Recommended by Kevin for kids ages 10-13
There's more than just birds up in the air this summer for twelve-year-old Jeremy-- like whether he'll live with mom or dad now that they're divorced, or if he'll ever feel comfortable telling anyone he likes boys. Fortunately during his visit on the Oregon coast, he meets Evan, and they form a close friendship-- and perhaps it might be more than that. The Language of Seabirds is a soft and sweet story that takes place at such a pivotal time in life, right on the cusp of adolescence, and Taylor captures that uncertainty and growth in a wonderfully realistic fashion. Jeremy and Evan come up with a secret bird language in this novel-- "cormorant" means "beautiful". I would definitely say that The Language of Birds is a cormorant book, one that has made a nest in my heart.
Recommended by Andrew for readers ages 10 - 13
What would you do if you woke up one morning and a letter has vanished from the whole world? When the letter R goes missing, everything is different-- even Doodles the ferret, who has shrunk into feet. My Pet Feet is a hilarious and clever book that demonstrates how much one letter can change a word.
Recommended by Andrew for ages 4 - 8
This tender and sweet book about a little chipmunk on a big journey emphasizes the impact of meeting new friends and making memories together along the way. I adore the gorgeously soft illustrations full of little details that accompany this wonderful book!
Recommended by Andrew for ages 4 - 8
Who is Riley Mayes, really? She's an artist, a jokester, and a self-proclaimed "dude-ish girl", just to name a few things. She's also totally obsessed with her favorite comedian, Joy Powers. Humor is embedded into Riley's fifth-grade growing pains that include (but aren't limited to) discovering identity, forging new friendships, and finding your passion-- which all combines into a meaningful and memorable graphic novel perfect for fans of Raina Telgemeier and Kayla Miller.
Recommended by Andrew for readers ages 8 - 12
If this book does not draw you in on the gorgeous art alone, just open it and randomly read any page. Read the author's notes for bonus cry!
Recommended by Mary for kids ages 5-8
In this world where one's voice can't always be heard, Maggie and Rumpus tentatively form an unlikely friendship that will change both of their lives. This engaging and heartfelt novel is perfect for fans of Pax and other stories that explore the bonds between animals and people.
Recommended by Andrew for ages 8 - 12
What an incredible era we're in for children's literature, to have an uplifting and informational anthology for LGBT kids of all kinds. This Is Our Rainbow brings so many influential and bestselling authors into one book, one of hope, camaraderie, and spirit. Friendships, family, identity, and first crushes are all focal points in this collection, just as they are in real life. A must-have for personal and professional libraries.
Recommended by Andrew for kids ages 10 and up
Not only are the illustrations in this book vivid - the story will also draw you in. Evelyn and Llewellyn are collectors of the right kind of "things" - including friends.
Recommended by Mary for kids ages 3 to 7
I loved this little slice-of-life taste of summer in Japan. It's a ghost story with a fantasy story within the story. A book with a ton of heart and humor and a cast of delightful characters.
Recommended by Becky for kids ages 8-12
When Mina's father says he has a surprise, it's usually not a good one. Her dad's new pet squirrel seems peculiarly... feline. Surely nothing could go wrong for these mice, right? This might very well be one of my favorite picture books of the year already-- the art is gorgeous, the characters are charming, and the humor is delightful. Readers of all ages will adore Mina!
Recommended by Andrew for kids ages 4 - 8
I think Stretchy McHandsome just stole my heart and won the honor of being my favorite picture book of the year. Stretchy the butterscotch boy is one of nine cats in the McHandsome clan-- the youngest, in fact! He sets off on a vacation from his loving but crowded home, and that's only the beginning. My favorite thing of all is how the illustrations truly capture the physics-defying reality of how cats seem to occupy their bodies. He stretches, melts, curls, and makes all the shapes a cat can make. Stretchy McHandsome (and his whole family) will charm your socks off!
Recommended by Andrew for kids ages 3 - 7
Edie is a bright, creative twelve year old girl that harbors a secret question she's ready to find answers for... "Where am I from?" She knows she's Native American, but her mother was adopted by a white family-- and she's always shied away from telling Edie about their cultural heritage. When Edie discovers a memory box of photos and letters from her namesake, Edith Graham, she's determined to learn her truth. A glorious novel of emerging identity, friendships, and many kinds of family. I was glued to this book, filled with so much emotion I actually cried. Award worthy.
Recommended by Andrew for kids ages 8 - 12
Eva is a semi-magical witch who uses creativity and imagination in tandem with what magic she does have to help the people of her town. Another great read-aloud for the family. My son and I are anxiously awaiting the sequel!
Recommended by Becky for kids ages 8-12
First kid's book by Lev Grossman, author of the Magicians trilogy. This was such a fun read aloud adventure. My six-year-old absolutely loved it and we both laughed our way through most of it. Two kids are gifted a magical train by their uncle and embark on an adventure that teaches them responsibility - both for their own choices and for the environment. It's delightful, and not a bit heavy-handed.
Recommended by Becky for kids ages 8-12
The sequel to "The Silver Arrow" is here and it is as delightful and funny as the first book. Kate and Tom go off the rails as they search for missing Uncle Herbert and meet some new friends along the way. These books are fantastic family read-alouds and I'm sure will become classics in their own right.
For readers of all ages, recommended by Becky
Lukoff captures grief and pre-teen growing pains in such a realistic but ultimately healing way. I needed this book as a kid, and even reading it now as an adult has moved and mended me during my time with it.
Recommended by Andrew for kids ages 8 - 12
Granny is supposed to be catsitting Satsuki the tabby, but when the ink on her instructions get smudged, she mistakes a local raccoon for the family kitty. This new kitty turns out to be quite the handful! Don't worry, everything will work out for Granny, Satsuki, and Kitty... even if they leave behind a mess. A humorous and whimsical story!
Recommended by Andrew for kids ages 4 - 8
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On Murphy Island, everything is eccentric. But Newt Gomez just wants to be normal...shake the bad dreams that persist about the bear attack he survived, to not be the only Latinx in his town. And then there's the bear statue that might grant wishes...
A new novel by our long-time friend and Ballard author, Kim Baker!
Recommended by Christy for kids ages 9-12
Set in the South in the 1960's - this middle grade book hits all the high notes. It's educational, full of magic, and delightfully spooky. Jez is one of the best kid characters that I've encountered in a long time. This book celebrates family, empathy, and kindness.
Recommended by Becky for kids ages 8-12
Buster the housecat is expecting a typical quiet day when his human goes out, but the strange, blob-like spirits invading his home ensure there's a lot more in store. With the help of street cats Chauncey and Nova, it's up to these fierce felines to defeat the spirits before Buster's human comes back! The art style in Housecat Trouble is so bright, round, and adorable, and there's a purr-fect mix of adventure and humor! I'm looking forward to more adventures featuring these fur-ociously brave kitties!
Recommended by Andrew for kids ages 8 - 12
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A middle-grade read (ages 8-12) and one that definitely does not condescend to it's readers. The writing was stunning, poetic, and a delight to read aloud to my son. It's a book that creates a whole new mythology about the creation and maintenance of the world. Full of puzzles and mystery.
Recommended by Becky for kids ages 8-12
This book is an absolute riot! Roald Dahl meets Lemony Snicket. It's a battle of wills and wits. A fantastic read-aloud for the whole family. Recommended by Becky for readers 8-12
This book cracked my heart wide open and brought the pieces together again-- just like Hazel's family, still full of love, but different than things once were. Hazel Bly and the Deep Blue Sea is a novel that will resonate with readers of all ages with tenderness, strength, and even a little bit of mermaid magic.
Recommended by Andrew for kids ages 8 - 12
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Reenie has never met her great-aunt Bea before, but after her mom is admitted to the hospital again, she's moving in with this familial stranger. This new territory takes flight when Bea demonstrates her falconry skills, inviting Reenie into a beautiful and lofty new world. Neither of them expected to ensnare a juvenile great-horned owl, especially one in dire need of rehabilitation! Frazzled young fowl Rufus has also been separated from his mother, and feels out of place in the forest-- certainly not like the king of the night that he wants to be. Reenie and Rufus have more in common than they know, and these kindred spirits form a sweet friendship that doesn't need words... but what will happen when Rufus is ready to return to the wild? Of a Feather swept into my heart as softly and quietly as an owl's primary feathers; a feel-good contemporary novel that manages to feel magical in its warmth and bravery.
Recommended by Andrew for kids ages 8 - 12
If you love "The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe" then check out this new stand-alone fantasy epic by Abi Elphinstone. This book was so much fun from start to finish. It had us on the edge of our seats.
Recommended by Becky for kids ages 8-12
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This charming book about Mouse and his friends in spreads about each month is so much fun to read. You will pour over all the details ~ especially the illustrations under each flap.
Recommended by Mary
This book is for anyone who loves Paris, or dogs, or music, or beautiful storytelling about how important it is to do what you love!
Recommended by Mary
With cutouts and illustrations to keep both children and their adults turning the page, this picture book has it all! So beautiful!
Recommended by Mary
So fun with illustrations to make you giggle. This charming book by the great Jon Klassen reminds us of the benefit of listening to the viewpoint of others.
Recommended by Mary
