The Octopus Escapes

This gorgeous book is a wonderful way to teach children just how clever and resourceful an octopus can be. Pay attention to the little clam who lives near his cave.

Memory Jars

In this imaginative picture book, a girl tries to save all of her good memories — and even her favorite people — in jars. This is a funny, heartfelt and relatable story.

Nerdycorn

Fern is a creative unicorn who loves math and science, but the other unicorns think she’s a nerdycorn. What will Fern do when her peers need her help? This is a great story about embracing who you are and being a good friend.

Not Yeti

Yeti knows he’s different from the other monsters; instead of destroying, Yeti likes to create, even if this means he’s alone sometimes. Bold lines and dynamic illustrations bring Yeti and his fellow monsters to light in this heartwarming story about kindness and being yourself.

Sunshine

This heartwarming story has the perfect blend of big adventure, big questions, and big feelings. It would be a great read-aloud book for the whole family.

Starfish

This perfect summer read is perfect for any kid struggling with body image issues, or struggling to love themselves in a world that constantly wants to point out imperfections. Written in verse, this is the story of a young girl who loves to swim, and is ready to cast aside the “Fat Girl Rules” that have been keeping her from being her best self.

The Shape of Thunder

The Shape of Thunder is sure to leave its mark on readers of all ages. Jasmine Warga delicately explores the many versions of grief and does not shy away from the big and heart-heavy questions young readers might have. With themes of friendship, loss, sadness and, ultimately, hope, The Shape of Thunder should be required reading.

Ophie’s Ghosts

Ophie’s Ghosts is a heartfelt, eerie and compelling story about a young girl with the ability to see ghosts, and those who want to use her powers for both good and wicked purposes. With social commentary woven in throughout and the personified locations and inanimate objects to bring more life to this tale, this is not only a clever story — it’s a timely and important one, as well.

Best Nerds Forever

Finn dies and has to leave his friends, but the story is just beginning. Along the way he meets another classmate who has died. Finn keeps wanting to be around his friends who are still alive. His new friend, Isabella, keeps hanging around their school. They work together to figure out why they can’t move on. My mom liked this one, too.

Tokyo Ever After: A Novel

A girl finds out her father is the Crown Prince of Japan! When she travels to meet him for the first time, royal life is not all she expected. Reading this fun book feels like watching a movie or traveling vicariously through the characters.

Ace of Spades

Set against the backdrop of a prestigious private academy, this tense and twisty story features two teens struggling against an anonymous foe determined to ruin their lives. Àbíké-Íyímídé does a phenomenal job making every character a suspect, with chilling secrets around every turn, all building to an ending you’ll never forget.

Instructions for Dancing

Nicola Yoon makes her triumphant return in this beautifully written and poignant novel about love and forgiveness. With Yoon’s lyrical prose, Instructions for Dancing tackles the question, “Is love worth the risk of heartbreak?” I smiled, I laughed, and I most definitely cried. If you’re looking for a sweet romance for this summer, I have no doubt that Instructions for Dancing will sweep you off your feet!

The Lucky List

Emily had always felt lucky, until her mother passed away when she was 14. Three years later, the summer before her senior year, she is feeling stuck and alone until she reconnects with Blake, a childhood friend. After the two girls find the bucket list Emily’s mother made the summer before her own senior year, they decide to complete it together. A fun summer read for YA fans.

Pumpkin (Dumplin’)

Bold, extravagant and fearless, Pumpkin takes the crown for the most fun novel this summer. Julie Murphy’s books never fail to make me laugh, bring tears to my eyes, and dare me to find my own inner superstar. This is the novel I wish I’d had when I was in high school, and I’m so thankful a story like this exists in all its beautiful glory.

A Song Below Water: A Novel

Out in paperback just in time to welcome its companion novel, A Chorus Rises, this is one of the most unique fantasies of last year. With a mix of magical and contemporary elements, Morrow’s story of sirens and strength is a perfect summer read.

You Should See Me in a Crown

What can I say about this book that hasn’t already been said? It’s a happily ever after rom com with a queer Black girl in the starring role and an endless string of prom shenanigans that will keep you turning the pages. It’s charming, romantic, inspiring, and now out in paperback!

The Girl from the Sea

When a young closeted girl falls for the selkie who saves her from drowning, she begins a romantic journey of self-acceptance. Beautifully illustrated, this graphic novel will no doubt resonate for many teens feeling trapped between the life they have and the life they hope to find.

Spark Book Club: June Selection

Hollow Chest

The Spark Book Club selection for June is Hollow Chest, the debut novel by Brita Sandstrom.

Charlie is excited for his brother to return home to London after WWII. But his brother, Theo, has changed. Charlie sees wolves everywhere. They claim to have eaten his brother’s heart on the battlefield. Together with his grandfather, an eccentric neighbor, and a wounded veteran, Charlie is determined to do whatever it takes to overcome the wolves and get his brother’s heart back. This historical fantasy is a heartfelt tribute to family, community, and resilience.

Early Sparks for the novel:

“A worthwhile exploration of the emotional costs of war.” —Kirkus

“Hollow Chest is remarkable on so many levels — its exquisite writing, its startling originality, its deep empathy. But what lingers most is its unwavering heartbeat: in the darkest of times, what will carry us through is love.” —Anne Ursu, award-winning author of The Lost Girl

Spark Book Club is the first editions club for middle grade readers. Every month members will receive a first edition middle grade novel — plus a letter written by the author especially for club members. Makes a great gift for the independent reader! Sign ups are available for 3, 6, or 12 months.

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