Here are some of our staff's favorite recent reads for kids!
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
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.
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
This is a great scream of a picture book! Any book for kids that has the line "Mommy must be stopped!" is genius story-telling in my humble opinion.
Recommended by Suzanne for kids ages 3-7
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
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
Books like this one are so important when schools and society often tell kids that there is only one, standardized way to be smart. This book celebrates diverse gifts and remains funny, exuberant, and charming.
Recommended by Suzi for kids ages 3-6
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
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
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
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
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
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
A gift to read! Fun magic, queer elders, and a wonderful friendship, this graphic novel is for animal lovers, witches, and adventurous kids. Great for ages 9-13. Recommended by Iris.
