| PICTURE BOOKS |
| Recommended by Chelsea
Ghost is a bit lonely until a red balloon bobs past him one day. A sweet story about friendship, this charming picture book is perfect for those who want to embrace the fall vibe without the spooky side. |
| Recommended by Rae Ann
A fun book full of facts about a favorite food. Pizza! |
| Recommended by Aly
A fresh take on a classic rhyming picture book. So simple, but will have you laughing until the end. |
| Recommended by Chelsea
Junior feels like he lives in the shadow of his famous cousin until one day Junior gets the chance to play the hero. The illustrations had me laughing out loud, and Junior’s story immediately lifted my mood. |
| Recommended by Rae Ann
Elephant loves playing in the school band because it’s something she can do with her friends. When it’s time to solo, she must decide if it’s the best way for her to shine. Charming and relatable. |
| INDEPENDENT READERS |
| Recommended by Sissy
Acker was a writer for Supernatural. Kids will love these hilarious stories that have a hint of spooky. Parents will CRACK UP while reading them aloud as well. Check out the viral video of Bobby Singer reading “The Chase!” |
| Recommended by Rae Ann
Norma and Belly are back in a new food adventure. This time the squirrel friends will do whatever it takes to get a slice of delicious pizza in this fun graphic novel. |
| Recommended by Madeline
A fun graphic novel for young readers who learn the power of kindness even when others aren’t so kind (which is especially hard when you’re lost!) |
| YOUNG ADULT |
| Recommended by RJ
This spectacular start to a new duology features a vivid setting, exciting mythology, and a large cast of entertaining characters. Ten half-god teens compete in a series of challenges where the loser will be sacrificed to maintain the magic that protects their world. Perfect for anyone looking to get lost in a stunning fantasy world, where the friendships are delightful and the stakes are high. |
| Recommended by Jennifer
Mer is a daring water diviner—a woman with the power to control water. Joined with a rag tag group of thieves, spies, and even a corgi, Merry hopes to obtain the treasure of a lifetime, with a little justice added in for good measure. When the quest proves to be more than she bargained for, Mer must summon the courage to become who she was destined to be. A tale full of adventure, action, love, and magic! |
| Recommended by Katie
In a world that constantly wants to make us wait for a many-booked series to be complete, I cannot overstate how much I appreciate a duology. I loved reconnecting with Princess Shiori and her sweet paper bird best friend as they attempt to honor her step-mother’s dying wish and return the dragon’s pearl to its rightful place. |
| Recommended by Aly
This retelling of Stephen King’s Carrie, set in small town Georgia, is beautifully grim and horrifyingly believable. You won’t be able to look away. |
| Recommended by RJ
At turns atmospheric and gruesome, heartfelt and terrifying, this collection of horror short stories is the perfect way to kick off your fall. With a spectacular line-up of talent, readers can hope to find some new favorite authors among the nightmares and chills. |
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By Kalynn Bayron
The September 2022 Spark Book Club selection is The Vanquishers by Kalynn Bayron.
The Vanquishers, masked vampire hunters, wiped out the last of the undead years ago. These heroes are legend in twelve-year-old Malika “Boog” Wilson’s town. But what if the vampires are back? And what if the school counselor knows more than he’s willing to share? This is a fun adventure story and the start of a new series.
Early Sparks for the novel:
“Combining mythology and science to produce a fresh take on modern vampire lore, Bayron erects a fantastical San Antonio that is as chock-full of personality as each of the story’s characters. Pithy dialogue and sensational description make this a speedy, eerie read.” – Publisher’s Weekly, starred review
“This warm, witty friendship story with a healthy dose of vampire adventure is a page-turning read . . . A lively, appealing addition to the genre.” – Kirkus
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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By Michelle I. Mason
The September 2022 ParnassusNext selection is My Second Impression of You by Michelle I. Mason.
Maggie expects a promposal, but gets a breakup instead. When she leaves the disastrous non-date, she breaks her leg. In a post-anesthesia daze, she clicks on a DO OVER app that promises to let her revisit her Best Day Ever. It comes with a new perspective on “best” and reveals new friends and possibilities.
RSVP for a FREE in-store event with the author on September 21st at 6:30 pm. Michelle will be in conversation with Jennifer Lynn Alvarez.
Early praise for the novel:
“Equal parts sweet romance and thought-provoking story of self-discovery.” —Kirkus
ParnassusNext is the book subscription box for YA lovers. Every member of ParnassusNext receives a first edition hardcover of each month’s selected book, signed by the author. There is no membership fee to join — and no line to stand in for the autograph. Not only will you have one of the best YA books of the month when it comes out, you’ll have it straight from the author’s hands, with an original, authentic signature! Set up a subscription for yourself or buy a gift membership for your favorite YA reader for 3, 6, or 12 months.
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