In the beautifully illustrated Tiny Worlds, chess pieces are people, popsicle sticks are bridges, and the chaotic world spins a little slower. This book reminds me so much of the imaginary places my cousin Olivia and I would explore in our grandmother’s backyard. Perfect for the quiet, introspective children in your life (and the busy adults!)

Mac Barnett and Carson Ellis breathe new life into this fairytale classic about the mysterious trickster with the unguessable name. Barnett’s trademark witty, sly humor matched with Ellis’s stunning gouache art makes every page a delight.

Also loved by Rachel!

Taking care of kids is hard and tiring. This is a book of love where no matter what the kids do, you still love them. It will make you smile.

Bear lives alone at his lighthouse, and he likes it that way. One day he fishes Eustace out of the sea, but can this fish convince Bear he’s more than his next meal?

What happens when a little girl throws a ball for one little dog? The chase ensues! And soon there are many dogs in pursuit causing a *little* havoc as they race after the ball. Dog lovers will delight in this hilarious read aloud.

Beloved librarian (and new host of Reading Rainbow) Mychal Threets makes a sparkling debut in this joyous celebration of library magic. Libraries are for everyone, and so is this book!

An empowering picture book to be cherished by women and girls of all ages. With colorful, kaleidoscopic illustrations, readers can picture the world the wonderful Steinem and Gbowee wish to work towards––a world rooted in justice, solidarity, and feminism.

Sweet book for new babies and moms. As they get to know each other by communicating in their own way they are able to share their needs and joys.

A gorgeous and illuminating history of basketball and the players that made it, Caldecott winner Kadir Nelson captures the sport from its earliest origins all the way to the present day. In between, you’ll find fascinating historical insight accompanied by truly jaw-dropping oil paintings. Yet another masterpiece from Kadir Nelson, Basket Ball is an absolutely essential read for any and all fans of the sport.

I grew up reading Choose Your Own Adventures. Returning didn’t disappoint. Who doesn’t love a book that can change each time you read it? YOU are hired to figure out who wants to kill Thrombey, only he gets killed for real. Rich old man. Mansion. Lots of suspects. And lots of possible endings. Fun on repeat.

Middle schooler Luna finds her world flipped upside down when a zine she makes is an unexpected hit with her classmates, leading to a sudden shift in popularity and a whole new set of problems. Capturing the middle school experience, warts and all, Chanel Miller’s The Moon Without Stars brilliantly updates the work of Judy Blume for the modern age, dispensing wit, wisdom, and tenderness at every turn.

Early 20th century retelling of Alice In Wonderland. Alice is now Alyce. The characters behave a little differently than the original. Quite clever!

When his big brother leaves for college, Jasper feels forgotten. Callan never even took Jasper on a fossil dig like he promised. Jasper, confused and angry, decides to dig for fossils on his own. Soon he hears a voice speaking to him from beneath the ground. Something that says it wants to be his friend. Something that wants to be unleashed. This novel in verse is full of both heart and suspense.

Our cherished March sisters meeting the modern world––especially under the premise of a murder mystery––may scare most readers, but in the hands of Katie Bernet, they are as true-to-themselves as ever. Follow Meg, Jo, and Amy as they uncover who killed their beloved Beth. Exploring themes of ambition, sisterhood, autonomy, and online safety, Beth is Dead is a 21st c. follow-up even Alcott would be proud of.

Also loved by Rae Ann & Hannah P.!

Emma is a musical prodigy, but plans to give up on her dreams to stay home after high school graduation and help her family. When she begins receiving letters from her true love in the future encouraging her to pursue her dreams, she’s skeptical. But what if the letters are real? And who are they from? She’s sure she knows, until another possibility appears, and another. This is a funny rom-com with so much heart.

Also loved by Aly & Lauren!

Maeve’s world burned down (literally) seven years ago. Her father was responsible for the crime. A letter from the past arrives claiming he’s innocent. Maeve practices Scriptomancy, the magic of enchanting letters. She impersonates her way into the only place she can uncover the truth in this atmospheric, dark fantasy now out in paperback!

Sprout Book Club: February Selection

Spark Book Club: February Selection

ParnassusNext: February Selection

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