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Women’s History Month | for Kids!

Women’s History Month is a celebration of women’s contributions to history, culture and society. It has been annually observed in the United States in the month of March since 1980 when President Jimmy Carter issued the first presidential proclamation declaring the week of March 8 as National Women’s History Week. The U.S. Congress followed suit the next year, passing a resolution establishing a national celebration. Six years later, the National Women’s History Project successfully petitioned Congress to expand the event to the entire month of March.

Check out these books in our collection about notable women and celebrate their contributions to the world!

All of the titles featured here we have in our collection. To see if an item is available to check out or place on hold, click the cover image or button to the right of the description.

She Persisted: 13 American Women Who Changed the World

by Chelsea Clinton

Profiles the lives of thirteen American women who have left their mark on U.S. history, including Harriet Tubman, Helen Keller, Margaret Chase Smith, and Oprah Winfrey.

Little Dreamers: Visionary Women Around the World

by Vashti Harrison

Featuring the true stories of women creators and thinkers from around the world, throughout history, this book shows that sometimes seeing things a little differently can lead to big changes. As you’ll see, the women profiled here not only made a place for themselves in the world but made the world a better place to live.

Rebel Girls Lead: 25 Tales of Powerful Women

by Rebel Girls

This collection of 25 stories includes the most beloved stories of leadership from the first three volumes of this New York Times best-selling series, Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls. Rebel Girls Lead celebrates the leadership of women from Michelle Obama to Malala Yousafzai. It is illustrated by female artists.

Brave, Black, First: 50+ African American Women Who Changed the World

by Cheryl Willis Hudson

Published in collaboration with the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, discover over fifty remarkable African American women whose unique skills and contributions paved the way for the next generation of young people.

Be Bold! Be Brave! 11 Latinas Who Made U.S. History / ¡Sé audaz, Sé valiente! 11 Latinas Que Hicieron Historia en los Estados Unidos

Available in English and Spanish, this bilingual book highlights 11 Latinas who excelled in various fields including medicine, science, sports, art and politics. By presenting the true biographical stories of these outstanding Latinas in rhyming verses, young readers will easily follow their journey to success.

Eleanor, Quiet No More: the Life of Eleanor Roosevelt

by Doreen Rappaport

A biography of Eleanor Roosevelt, the most socially and politically active — and controversial — First Lady America had ever seen. Ambassador, activist, and champion of civil rights, Eleanor Roosevelt changed the soul of America forever. Includes selected quotes from Eleanor’s own writings.

I Dissent: Ruth Bader Ginsburg Makes Her Mark

by Debbie Levy

Supreme Court justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg has spent a lifetime disagreeing: disagreeing with inequality, arguing against unfair treatment, and standing up for what’s right for people everywhere. This biographical picture book about the Notorious RBG, tells the justice’s story through the lens of her many famous dissents, or disagreements.

Becoming: Adapted for Young Readers

by Michelle Obama

The honest and fascinating account of Michelle Obama’s life. She shares her views on how all young people can help themselves as well as help others, no matter their status in life. She asks readers to realize that no one is perfect, and that the process of becoming is what matters, as finding yourself is ever evolving. In telling her story with boldness, she asks young readers: Who are you, and what do you want to become?

Kamala Harris: Rooted in Justice

by Nikki Grimes

Discover the incredible story of a young daughter of immigrants who would grow up to be the first woman, first Black person and first South Asian American ever elected Vice President of the United States in this moving picture biography.

I Am Sonia Sotomayor

by Brad Meltzer

Sonia Sotomayor was the first Latina Supreme Court Justice. From her home in the Bronx to law school, Sonia Sotomayor was always driven by her love of learning and her commitment to justice. With the support of her loving family and supportive mentors, she pursued a career in law and proved there’s no limit to what someone can accomplish.

Hillary Rodham Clinton: Dreams Taking Flight

by Kathleen Krull

A biography of the former first lady who has become a senator, Secretary of State, and a presidential candidate, discusses her childhood dreams of flight, her career as a lawyer, and her determination to pursue her dreams.

I Am Malala: How One Girl Stood Up for Education and Changed the World

by Malala Yousafzai

Malala is an international symbol of peaceful protest and the youngest ever Nobel Peace Prize winner. In these young readers edition of her best-selling memoir we hear firsthand the remarkable story of a girl who knew from a young age that she wanted to change the world – and did.

Who is Oprah Winfrey?

by Barbara Kramer

We all know Oprah Winfrey as a talk-show host, actress, producer, media mogul, and philanthropist, but the “Queen of Talk” wasn’t always so fortunate. She suffered through a rough childhood and went on to use her personal struggles as motivation. Oprah’s kindness, resilience, and determination are just some of the many reasons why her viewers, and people all around the world, love her. The richest African American person of the twentieth century, Oprah is often described as the most influential woman in the world.

R-E-S-P-E-C-T: Aretha Franklin, Queen of Soul

by Carole Boston Weatherford

Aretha sang with a soaring voice that spanned more than three octaves. Her incredible talent and string of hit songs earned her the title “the Queen of Soul.” With words that sing and art that shines, this vibrant portrait of Aretha Franklin pays her the R-E-S-P-E-C-T this Queen of Soul deserves.

A Girl Named Rosita: the Story of Rita Moreno — Actor, Singer, Dancer, Trailblazer!

by Anika Denise

The life of Puerto Rican actress, dancer, and singer Rita Moreno, from her girlhood journey to the United States to her rise as a timeless superstar.

Frida Kahlo and her Animalitos

by Monica Brown

Chronicles Frida’s life, from her childhood to her rise as one of the world’s most influential painters, capturing the beauty and strength of Frida’s creative spirit, which carried her through tragedy and triumph, and the animals that inspired her along the way.

The Important Thing About Margaret Wise Brown

by Mac Barnett and Sarah Jacoby

An exceptional picture book biography of Margaret Wise Brown, the legendary author of Goodnight Moon, The Runaway Bunny, and other beloved children’s classics, that’s as groundbreaking as the icon she was herself.

Fossil Huntress: Mary Leaky, Paleontologist

by Andi Diehn

What was the world like millions of years ago? Did early humans walk on all fours? Did giant sloths lie in trees? Did dinosaurs have feathers? Even as a young girl, Mary Leakey was fascinated by questions like these! Meet Mary as a girl growing up in France and visiting the site of archeological wonders, such as Pech Merle, Fond de Gaume, and La Mouthe. As an adult, Mary leaps at the chance to travel to Africa, where she spends much of her life working in the field in Tanzania, making discoveries that change the face of paleontology forever. True grit, passion, and high standards for scientific rigor made Mary a pioneer in the field of paleontology!

Maria Tallchief

by Christine Day

Maria Tallchief loved to dance, but was told that she might need to change her Osage name to one that sounded more Russian to make it as a professional ballerina. She refused, and worked hard at dancing her best, becoming America’s first Indigenous American prima ballerina.

Spring After Spring: How Rachel Carson Inspired the Environmental Movement

by Stephanie Roth Sisson

As a child, Rachel Carson lived by the rhythms of the natural world. Spring after spring, year after year, she observed how all living things are connected. And as an adult, Rachel watched and listened as the natural world she loved so much began to fall silent. Spring After Spring traces Rachel’s journey as scientist and writer, courageously speaking truth to an often hostile world through her book, and ultimately paving the way for the modern environmental movement.

Want more recommendations?

You can check out all of our online booklists (for kids and for adults), or reach out to us! Our staff is ready and willing to make reading, listening, or viewing recommendations to you! Email us at reference@benlib.org or contact us via our online form!

In Honor of Black History Month: 20 Must Read Young Adult Novels!

By bcplweb Booklists, Booklists

Every February, people in the United States celebrate the achievements and history of African Americans as part of Black History Month.

Take a look at this list, compiled by our Youth Services Department, that highlights young adult novels!

All of the titles featured here we have in our collection. To see if an item is available to check out or place on hold, click the cover image or button to the right of the description.

The Hate U Give

by Angie Thomas

Our #1 recommendation for Black History Month is already a classic. This stunning novel is inspired by the activists of Black Lives Matter. Starr Carter moves between two worlds: the poor neighborhood where she lives and the fancy prep school she attends. The uneasy balance between these worlds is shattered when Starr witnesses the fatal shooting of her childhood best friend, Khalil, at the hands of a police officer. He was unarmed. Soon afterward, his death is a national headline. Some are calling him a thug, maybe even a drug dealer and a gangbanger. Protesters are taking to the streets. Some cops and the local drug lord try to intimidate Starr and her family. What everyone wants to know is: what really went down that night?

Concrete Rose

by Angie Thomas

In the prequel to The Hate U Give, Maverick Carter is a force to be reckoned with. If there’s one thing seventeen-year-old Maverick Carter knows, it’s that a real man takes care of his family. As the son of a former gang legend, Mav does that the only way he knows how: dealing for the King Lords. With this money he can help his mom, who works two jobs while his dad is in prison. Life’s not perfect, but with a fly girlfriend and a cousin who always has his back, Mav’s got everything under control. Until, that is, Maverick finds out he’s a father. But when King Lord blood runs through your veins, you can’t just walk away. Loyalty, revenge, and responsibility threaten to tear Mav apart, especially after the brutal murder of a loved one. He’ll have to figure out for himself what it really means to be a man.

Punching the Air

by Ibi Zoboi & Yusef Salaam

This incredible novel-in-verse based on real life events is a must-read for everyone! This story will move you to your core and inspire you to dig deeper into prison reform. Amal Shahid has always been an artist and a poet. But even in a diverse art school, because of a biased system he’s seen as disruptive and unmotivated. Then, one fateful night, an altercation in a gentrifying neighborhood escalates into tragedy. “Boys just being boys” turns out to be true only when those boys are white. Suddenly, at just sixteen years old, Amal is convicted of a crime he didn’t commit and sent to prison. Despair and rage almost sink him until he turns to the refuge of his words, his art. This never should have been his story. But can he change it?

Kingdom of Souls

by Rena Barron

So much of YA fantasy is set in European-inspired worlds, and while we love it, we are always craving something more. Rena’s West-African inspired high fantasy gives us the magic we need this Black History Month. Born into a family of powerful witchdoctors, Arrah yearns for magic of her own. But each year she fails to call forth her ancestral powers, while her ambitious mother watches with growing disapproval. There’s only one thing Arrah hasn’t tried, a deadly last resort: trading years of her own life for scraps of magic. Until the Kingdom’s children begin to disappear, and Arrah is desperate to find the culprit. She uncovers something worse. The long-imprisoned Demon King is stirring. And if he rises, his hunger for souls will bring the world to its knees… unless Arrah pays the price for the magic to stop him.

Let Me Hear a Rhyme

by Tiffany D. Jackson

Brooklyn, 1998. Biggie Smalls was right: Things done changed. But that doesn’t mean that Quadir and Jarrell are cool letting their best friend Steph’s music lie forgotten under his bed after he’s murdered—not when his rhymes could turn any Bed Stuy corner into a party. With the help of Steph’s younger sister Jasmine, they come up with a plan to promote Steph’s music under a new rap name: the Architect. Soon, everyone wants a piece of him. When his demo catches the attention of a hotheaded music label rep, the trio must prove Steph’s talent from beyond the grave. As the pressure of keeping their secret grows, Quadir, Jarrell, and Jasmine are forced to confront the truth about what happened to Steph. Only, each has something to hide. And with everything riding on Steph’s fame, they need to decide what they stand for or lose all that they’ve worked so hard to hold on to—including each other.

On the Come Up

by Angie Thomas

Sixteen-year-old Bri wants to be one of the greatest rappers of all time. Or at least win her first battle. As the daughter of an underground hip hop legend who died right before he hit big, Bri’s got massive shoes to fill. But it’s hard to get your come up when you’re labeled a hoodlum at school, and your fridge at home is empty after your mom loses her job. So Bri pours her anger and frustration into her first song, which goes viral . . . for all the wrong reasons. Bri soon finds herself at the center of a controversy, portrayed by the media as more menace than MC. But with an eviction notice staring her family down,

Bri doesn’t just want to make it—she has to. Even if it means becoming the very thing the public has made her out to be.

Dread Nation

by Justina Ireland

When families go missing in Baltimore County, Jane McKeene, who is studying to become an Attendant, finds herself in the middle of a conspiracy that has her fighting for her life against powerful enemies. Jane McKeene was born two days before the dead began to walk the battlefields of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania– derailing the War Between the States and changing the nation forever. Now laws like the Native and Negro Education Act require certain children attend combat schools to learn to put down the dead. Jane is studying to become an Attendant, trained in both weaponry and etiquette to protect the well-to-do. But it’s not a life Jane wants. When families around Baltimore County begin to go missing, Jane is caught in the middle of a conspiracy… and the restless dead are the least of her problems.

Not So Pure and Simple

by Justina Ireland

What does it mean to be a “real man?” Lamar Giles tackles this subject and more in this masterful contemporary, a perfect add to any TBR at any time. Del has had a crush on Kiera Westing since kindergarten. And now, during their junior year, she’s finally available. So when Kiera volunteers for an opportunity at their church, Del’s right behind her. Though he quickly realizes he’s inadvertently signed up for a Purity Pledge. His dad thinks his wires are crossed, and his best friend, Qwan, doesn’t believe any girl is worth the long game. But Del’s not about to lose his dream girl, and that’s where fellow pledger Jameer comes in. He can put in the good word. In exchange, Del just has to get answers to the Pledgers’ questions…about sex ed. With other boys circling Kiera like sharks, Del needs to make his move fast. But as he plots and plans, he neglects to ask the most important question: What does Kiera want? He can’t think about that too much, though, because once he gets the girl, it’ll all sort itself out. Right?

The Voting Booth

by Brandy Colbert

Marva Sheridan was born ready for this day. She’s always been driven to make a difference in the world, and what better way than to vote in her first election? Duke Crenshaw is so done with this election. He

just wants to get voting over with so he can prepare for his band’s first paying gig tonight. Only problem? Duke can’t vote. When Marva sees Duke turned away from their polling place, she takes it upon herself to make sure his vote is counted. She hasn’t spent months doorbelling and registering voters just to see someone denied their right. And that’s how their whirlwind day begins, rushing from precinct to precinct, cutting school, waiting in endless lines, turned away time and again, trying to do one simple thing: vote. They may have started out as strangers, but as Duke and Marva team up to beat a rigged system (and find Marva’s missing cat), it’s clear that there’s more to their connection than a shared mission for democracy.

Felix Ever After

by Kacen Callender

Felix Love has never been in love—and, yes, he’s painfully aware of the irony. He desperately wants to know what it’s like and why it seems so easy for everyone but him to find someone. What’s worse is that, even though he is proud of his identity, Felix also secretly fears that he’s one marginalization too many—Black, queer, and transgender—to ever get his own happily-ever-after. When an anonymous student begins sending him transphobic messages—after publicly posting Felix’s deadname alongside images of him before he transitioned—Felix comes up with a plan for revenge. What he didn’t count on: his catfish scenario landing him in a quasi–love triangle….But as he navigates his complicated feelings, Felix begins a journey of questioning and self-discovery that helps redefine his most important relationship: how he feels about himself.

Black Enough

edited by Ibi Zoboi

This author lineup is unmatched. This collection of unflinching stories about being young and Black in America is one of the best YA anthologies to hit shelves, ever. Black is…sisters navigating their relationship at summer camp in Portland, Oregon, as written by Renée Watson. Black is…three friends walking back from the community pool talking about nothing and everything, in a story by Jason Reynolds. Black is…Nic Stone’s high-class beauty dating a boy her momma would never approve of. Black is…two girls kissing in Justina Ireland’s story set in Maryland. Black is urban and rural, wealthy and poor, mixed race, immigrants, and more—because there are countless ways to be Black enough.

Monster: A Graphic Novel

by Walter Dean Myers, adapted by Guy A. Sims

Monster is the ultimate classic, an ever-important story that opens up conversations about what “justice” often looks like for black teenagers. The graphic novel adaptation is just as utterly stunning and the perfect read for Black History month. Monster is a multi-award-winning, provocative coming-of-age story about Steve Harmon, a teenager awaiting trial for a murder and robbery. As Steve acclimates to juvenile detention and goes to trial, he envisions how his ordeal would play out on the big screen. Guy A. Sims, the acclaimed author of the Brotherman series of comic books, collaborated with his brother, the illustrator Dawud Anyabwile, in this thrilling black-and-white graphic novel adaption of Monster.

The Black Flamingo

by Dean Atta

We LOVE poetry, and this author’s background as an acclaimed poet and performer is evident in his debut YA novel! Start reading this lyrical Stonewall Book Award Winner now. Michael is a mixed-race gay teen growing up in London. All his life, he’s navigated what it means to be Greek-Cypriot and Jamaican—but never quite feeling Greek or Black enough. As he gets older, Michael’s coming out is only the start of learning who he is and where he fits in. When he discovers the Drag Society, he finally finds where he belongs—and the Black Flamingo is born. Told with raw honesty, insight, and lyricism, this debut explores the layers of identity that make us who we are—and allow us to shine.

Pride

by Ibi Zoboi

Zuri Benitez has pride. Brooklyn pride, family pride, and pride in her Afro-Latino roots. But pride might not be enough to save her rapidly gentrifying neighborhood from becoming unrecognizable. When the wealthy Darcy family moves in across the street, Zuri wants nothing to do with their two teenage sons, even as her older sister, Janae, starts to fall for the charming Ainsley. She especially can’t stand the judgmental and arrogant Darius. Yet as Zuri and Darius are forced to find common ground, their initial dislike shifts into an unexpected understanding. But with four wild sisters pulling her in different directions, cute boy Warren vying for her attention, and college applications hovering on the horizon, Zuri fights to find her place in Bushwick’s changing landscape, or lose it all.

Opposite of Always

by Justin A. Reynolds

When Jack and Kate meet at a party, bonding until sunrise over their mutual love of Froot Loops and their favorite flicks, Jack knows he’s falling—hard. Soon she’s meeting his best friends, Jillian and Franny, and Kate wins them over as easily as she did Jack. But then Kate dies. And their story should end there. Yet Kate’s death sends Jack back to the beginning, the moment they first meet, and Kate’s there again. Healthy, happy, and charming as ever. Jack isn’t sure if he’s losing his mind. Still, if he has a chance to prevent Kate’s death, he’ll take it. Even if that means believing in time travel. However, Jack will learn that his actions are not without consequences. And when one choice turns deadly for someone else close to him, he has to figure out what he’s willing to do to save the people he loves.

A Blade So Black

by L.L. McKinney

The first time the Nightmares came, it nearly cost Alice her life. Now she’s trained to battle monstrous creatures in the dark dream realm known as Wonderland with magic weapons and hardcore fighting skills. Yet even warriors have a curfew. Life in real-world Atlanta isn’t always so simple, as Alice juggles an overprotective mom, a high-maintenance best friend, and a slipping GPA. Keeping the Nightmares at bay is turning into a full-time job. But when Alice’s handsome and mysterious mentor is poisoned, she has to find the antidote by venturing deeper into Wonderland than she’s ever gone before. And she’ll need to use everything she’s learned in both worlds to keep from losing her head… literally.

Long Way Down

by Jason Reynolds

Fifteen-year-old Will—has a cannon, a strap, a tool, a gun—shoved in the back waistband of his jeans. See, his brother Shawn was just murdered. And Will knows the rules. No crying. No snitching. Revenge. That’s where Will’s now heading, with that gun shoved in the back waistband of his jeans, the gun that was his brother’s gun. He gets on the elevator, seventh floor, stoked. He knows who he’s after. Or does he? As the elevator stops on the sixth floor, on comes Buck. Buck, Will finds out, is who gave Shawn the gun before Will took the gun. Buck tells Will to check that the gun is even loaded. And that’s when Will sees that one bullet is missing. And the only one who could have fired Shawn’s gun was Shawn. Huh. Will didn’t know that Shawn had ever actually USED his gun. Bigger huh. BUCK IS DEAD. But Buck’s in the elevator? And so it goes, the whole long way down, as the elevator stops on each floor, and at each stop someone connected to his brother gets on to give Will a piece to a bigger story than the one he thinks he knows. A story that might never know an END…if WILL gets off that elevator.

Children of Blood and Bone

by Tomi Adeyemi

If you’re looking for a book where the world, the characters, and the magic are rich and captivating, then this is the book for you. We anticipate seeing Children of Blood and Bone in required reading roundups everywhere. We know it’s on ours. Zélie Adebola remembers when the soil of Orïsha hummed with magic. Burners ignited flames, Tiders beckoned waves, and Zélie’s Reaper mother summoned forth souls. But everything changed the night magic disappeared. Under the orders of a ruthless king, maji were killed, leaving Zélie without a mother and her people without hope. Now Zélie has one chance to bring back magic and strike against the monarchy. With the help of a rogue princess, Zélie must outwit and outrun the crown prince, who is hell-bent on eradicating magic for good.

Buried Beneath the Baobab Tree

by Adaobi Tricia Nwaubani

Based on real-life experiences of Nigerian girls kidnapped by Boko Haram, Buried Beneath the Baobab Tree sheds new light on the victims’ perspectives. It implores readers to see the victims as more than just a number and tells a side of history that not many people know. A new pair of shoes, a university degree, a husband—these are the things that a girl dreams of in a Nigerian village. And with a government scholarship right around the corner, everyone can see that these dreams aren’t too far out of reach. But the girl’s dreams turn to nightmares when her village is attacked by Boko Haram, a terrorist group, in the middle of the night. Kidnapped, she is taken with other girls and women into the forest where she is forced to follow her captors’ radical beliefs and watch as her best friend slowly accepts everything she’s been told. Still, the girl defends her existence. As impossible as escape may seem, her life—her future—is hers to fight for.

Dear Martin

by Nic Stone

In a debut told in the view of a young Black male living in today’s America, Nic Stone boldly takes on the topics of police brutality and racism—something that doesn’t exist only in Black history, but unfortunately in today’s world as well. Justyce McAllister is top of his class and set for the Ivy League—but none of that matters to the police officer who just put him in handcuffs. And despite leaving his rough neighborhood behind, he can’t escape the scorn of his former peers or the ridicule of his new classmates. Justyce looks to the teachings of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. for answers. But do they hold up anymore? He starts a journal to Dr. King to find out. Then comes the day Justyce goes driving with his best friend, Manny, windows rolled down, music turned up—way up, sparking the fury of a white off-duty cop beside them. Words fly. Shots are fired. Justyce and Manny are caught in the crosshairs. In the media fallout, it’s Justyce who is under attack.

Want more recommendations?

Happy Lunar New Year 2022! | Picture Books

By bcplweb Booklists, Booklists

The Lunar New Year falls on February 1st, and it’s the Year of the Tiger!

Tied to the Chinese lunar calendar, the holiday was traditionally a time to honor household and heavenly deities as well as ancestors. It was also a time to bring family together for feasting. Check out this list picture books all about Chinese (Lunar) New Year, hand-picked by our Youth Services Department staff!

All of the titles featured here we have in our collection. To see if an item is available to check out or place on hold, click the cover image or button to the right of the description.

Chinese New Year Colors

by Rich Lo

This bilingual color concept book celebrates a rainbow of traditional objects seen during the Chinese New Year. Hóng is the color of explosive firecrackers! Jīn is the hue of lucky coins. Zŏng is the shade of sweet peanut puffs. Welcome to the festivities of the Chinese New Year, where symbolic gifts, foods, and objects come together in a celebration of beautiful colors. This vibrant, simple, and highly graphic bilingual book is the perfect introduction to Chinese and English words for colors as it honors one of the biggest holidays around the world.

Nian, the Chinese New Year Dragon

by Virginia Loh-Hagan

An illustrated retelling for young readers of the Chinese folktale about a dragon that threatens a village each spring and Mei, the young girl who is destined to defeat him.

Mulan’s Lunar New Year

by Natasha Yim

It’s the Lunar New Year, which just happens to be Mulan’s favorite festival! There is a lot to do to prepare for this important celebration, and for the first time, Mulan is old enough to help out. But everthing Mulan does seems to turn out wrong.

Maisy’s Chinese New Year

by Lucy Cousins

Spending Chinese New Year with her friend Tiger, Maisy learns about traditional symbols, shares a delicious cultural feast and exchanges lucky red hongbao envelopes before listening to a story about the holiday and staying up late to watch a fireworks display.

Ruby’s Chinese New Year

by Vickie Lee

As Ruby travels to her grandmother’s house to bring her a gift for Chinese New Year, she is joined by all of the animals of the zodiac. Includes the legend of the Chinese horoscope and instructions for crafts.

The Great Race: Story of the Chinese Zodiac

by Christopher Corr

Celebrate Chinese New Year and learn how every animal earned its place in the Chinese zodiac by taking part in the Great Race! Discover who will come first to win the ultimate prize, and find out why Cat will never forgive his friend Rat in this ancient folk tale that has been passed from generation to generation.

Curious George Dragon Dance

by Adah Nuchi

George, Marco, and their new friend Lily get to dance in the dragon costume during the Chinese New Year parade.

Bringing in the New Year

by Grace Lin

A Chinese American family prepares for and celebrates the Lunar New Year. End notes discuss the customs and traditions of Chinese New Year.

This Next New Year

by Janet S. Wong

A family prepares to celebrate the Lunar New Year and looks forward to the good luck they hope it will bring.

It’s Chinese New Year

by Richard Sebra

Presents an introduction to the Chinese New Year holiday and discusses its traditions, including family meals, remembering loved ones, decorating with the color red, and giving gifts.

How to Catch a Dragon

by Adam Wallace

A real, wily dragon winds through streets in China, eluding the traps set by a group of children during the Chinese New Year celebration.

Lunar New Year

by Hannah Eliot

Introduces lunar new year, describing the food, decorations, and activities of the holiday.

Goldy Luck and the Three Pandas

by Natasha Yim

One Chinese New Year, her mother sends Goldy Luck to the pandas next door with a plate of turnip cakes, but the pandas are out and disaster follows. Includes a recipe for turnip cakes and an explanation of Chinese New Year.

Want more recommendations?

Christmas Crafting and Baking

By bcplweb Booklists, Booklists

‘Tis the season for joy and spending special time with our family and friends! Here’s some books that will get you crafting and baking and spending some time making merry together!

No-Bake Gingerbread Houses for Kids

by Lisa Turner Anderson

Building a fabulous gingerbread house is as easy as 1-2-3. All the houses in this book are made from graham crackers, cookies, ice cream cones and waffle bowls. Just assemble, frost and decorate!

Kids Make Christmas

by Pia Deges

From tree decorations and games to pretty gifts and delicious cookies, the projects cover a wide range of different crafts. Everything is simple to make for kids of all ages, with most of the projects requiring no previous skill. There are also craft ideas for New Year’s Eve with instructions for party hats and confetti.

Fun Christmas Crafts to Make and Bake: 60 Festive Projects to Make with Your Kids

by Annie Rigg & Catherine Woram

Provides instructions for over sixty kid-friendly, Christmas-themed projects, including potato print wrapping paper, snow globes, toffee apples, and easy fruit cake.

101 Christmas Ornaments

by Leisure Arts

Imaginative, simply made ornaments are great for dressing up windows, packages, mantel or table displays, and, of course, the Christmas tree. Four sections each showcase a unique style: Country Christmas, Cute & Clever, Trash to Treasure, and more.

Easy Holiday Origami

by Christopher L. Harbo

Flex those fingers and get ready to fold! Provides instructions and photo-illustrated diagrams for making a variety of easy holiday origami.

LEGO Holiday Ideas

by Elizabeth Dowsett

A collection of more than 50 different building ideas for LEGO Christmas decorations, gifts, and games.

Sweet Christmas: Homemade Peppermints, Sugar Cake, Chocolate-Almond Toffee, Eggnog Fudge, and Other Sweet Treats and Decorations

by Sharon Bowers

Provides one hundred recipes and projects for holiday treats for parents and children to make together, including peppermint fudge, chocolate Santa mice, sticky buns, and orange-butter pancakes.

Christmas Baking: Fun and Delicious Holiday Treats

by Mia Ohrn

The Christmas season is a magical time—sleigh bells ringing, puffy snow flurrying, a cozy fire crackling, and wonderful aromas coming from the kitchen as families make yummy Christmas treats. Christmas Baking will make the holiday season even more magical with fun and simple recipes that are sure to become Christmas traditions in every home.

A Christmas Cookcook

by Sarah L. Schuette

Spread some Christmas cheer with these quick and easy holiday treats. In just a few simple steps, you can make Blitzens Bagels, Mrs Claus Cookies, and much more. So grab your Santa apron and get in the kitchen!

The Snow Princess Cookbook

by Barbara Beery

Sparkling Ice Snow Cones, Savory Snowball Pasta and even Icicle Lollipops: bestselling author Barbara Beery has created the perfect cookbook for your little snow bunnies who like all things frozen and fun!

Want more recommendations?

Penny’s Picks: November 2021

By bcplweb Booklists, Booklists

Miss Penny from the Youth Services Department has hand-picked a selection of her current favorite books — and there’s something for a range of ages!

All of the titles featured here we have in our collection. To see if an item is available to check out or place on hold, click the cover image or button to the right of the description.

Lessons in Fusion

by Primrose Madayag Knazan

Sixteen-year-old Sarah (it’s pronounced SAH-rah, thank you) has a successful blog creating fusion recipes. When Sarah is invited to compete on Cyber Chef, a virtual cooking competition, her twists on her Baba’s recipes are not enough to pique the palate of the show’s producers. She is pushed to present dishes that represent her Filipinx culture, but these flavours are foreign to her since her parents raised her emphatically Jewish. To survive Cyber Chef and find her cultural identity, Sarah must discover why her mother turned her back on all things Filipinx, and learn the true meaning of fusion.

The Splendor

by Breeana Shields

When Juliette’s sister, Clare, returns from her birthday week at the magical hotel upon a hill, she comes back changed … Deeply unsettled, Juliette uses the last of her savings to book a stay at the Splendor and unravel its mysteries. Run by the talented young illusionist, Henri, the halls are full of magnificent delights and alluring distractions. Every wonder seems to twist Juliette’s attention away from the answers lurking just beneath the surface.

The Holiday Switch

by Tif Marcelo

Lila Santos is ready for her last winter break of high school. The snow in her small town of Holly, New York, is plentiful, the mood is as cozy as a fuzzy Christmas sweater, and she’s earning extra cash working at the local inn—AKA the setting of the greatest film of all time, Holiday by the Lake—while moonlighting as an anonymous book blogger. But her perfect holiday plans crash to a halt when her boss’s frustratingly cute nephew, Teddy Rivera, becomes her coworker. Lila is type A; Teddy is type “Anything but Lila’s Way,” and the two of them can’t stop butting heads over tangled icicle lights and messy gift shop merch. But when they accidentally switch phones one afternoon, they realize they’ve both been hiding things from each other. Will their secrets—and an unexpected snowstorm—bring these rivals together?

Battle of the Bands

edited by Lauren Gibaldi and Eric Smith

A collection of sixteen interconnected short stories about a high school’s battle of the bands competition, from such authors as Shaun David Hutchinson, Brittany Cavallaro, and Preeti Chhibber.

Eyes of the Forest

by April Henry

A bestselling fantasy author disappears — only his biggest fan believes he’s in danger and has the courage to uncover the truth in this fast-paced mystery with a chilling, psychological twist.

The School Between Winter and Fairyland

by Heather Fawcett

Twelve-year-old Autumn, the beastkeeper at Inglenook School for Magicians, befriends Cai Morrigan the young magician prophesied to destroy the dragon suspected of devouring Autumn’s twin brother, and together they uncover the dark truth that lies at the heart of Inglenook School.

Daughter of the Deep

by Rick Riordan

In this story inspired by Jules Verne’s “20,000 Leagues Under the Sea,” Ana Dakkar, a freshman at Harding-Pencroft Academy, a five-year high school that graduates the best marine scientists, naval warriors, navigators, and underwater explorers in the world, makes astounding discoveries about her heritage and puts her leadership skills to the test against deadly enemies from a rival school.

The Troubled Girls of Dragomir Academy

by Anne Ursu

Marya Lupu’s parents has always believed that her older brother Luka is destined to be a sorcerer and make the family’s fortune, so when the day he is tested turns into a disaster, and the Guild declares that he has no magical talent, they find it easier to blame Marya for upsetting the test than admit the truth, and she is sent to the Dragomir Academy, a school for wayward girls–but a school where she finds friendship and ultimately discovers her own talents.

Tangled Up in Luck

by Merrill Wyatt

When seventh grade enemies research a missing set of jewels for a class project, they realize that the answers to the unsolved case might be much closer to home than they thought in this fun-filled mystery for fans of The Book Scavenger and Lemons . If you told Sloane Osburn and Amelia Miller-Poe that they’d be hiding in their town cemetery from an evil mastermind, they would have been hard-pressed to believe you. If you also told them that person was intent on beating them to a cache of long-lost jewels using nothing more than a slingshot and wicked aim, they’d have been sure you got your facts wrong. Finally, if you told them they’d be doing all of this as friends…well, they would have been sure you needed medical attention. Whether through serendipity (really, really good luck) or zemblanity (really, really bad luck), someone tricked their teacher into using their seventh-grade class to investigate the mystery of their town’s long-missing treasure. From there, things have escalated. Quickly. Now, the girls are stuck hiding behind a gravestone, dodging acorns (who knew acorns could be so threatening?), and just a few clues short of those jewels. It’s up to these enemies-turned-partners to uncover centuries-old clues to find the treasure at the end of this book before the mysterious person on their trail can get to it first…

Dust & Grim

by Chuck Wendig

Thirteen-year-old Molly doesn’t know how she got the short end of the stick — being raised by her neglectful father — while Dustin, the older brother she’s never met, got their mother and the keys to the family estate. But now the siblings are both orphaned, she’s come home for her inheritance, and if Dustin won’t welcome her into the family business, then she’ll happily take her half in cash. There’s just one problem: the family business is a mortuary for monsters, and Molly’s not sure she’s ready to deal with mysterious doors, talking wolves, a rogue devourer of magic, and a secret cemetery. It’s going to take all of Dustin’s stuffy supernatural knowledge and Molly’s most heroic cosplay (plus a little help from non-human friends) for the siblings to figure it out and save the day… if only they can get along for five minutes.

Want more recommendations?

Parish’s Picks: Baking Fun!

By bcplweb Booklists, Booklists

Hey hey… Parish is back with a new booklist! This time he’s selected some of his favorite activity and DIY books for kids and teens.

October is finally upon us, and what better way to celebrate a month of ghosts and ghouls, as well as another great fall season, with some baking! October and fall are the perfect time to fine tune your baking skills… with Halloween approaching, and soon other holidays that bring loved ones together, why not start the holidays with a little baked goodness? This booklist features some of Parish’s favorite cookbooks with tons of easy to follow recipes, and beautiful pictures.

The Big, Fun Kids Baking Book

by Food Network, Maile Carpenter | Grade: 4th-8th

An ultimate baking primer for beginners, written by the editors of the top-selling food magazine, shares more than 100 photographed recipes for everyday and special-occasion cakes, brownies and other baked favorites while providing fun ideas for customizations and alternatives to cakes.

From Parish: Food Network is one of my favorite channels to watch during my free time! This book is nicely written and put together. One of my favorite things about the book is the table of contents — it’s listed by cookies, bars, and cakes with pictures of each item. Readers who enjoy baking, and learning different ways to make cookies, or how many drops of food coloring to make a certain color will love this book.

The Ultimate Kids’ Baking Book

by Tiffany Dahle | Grade: 3rd-8th

Now your kids can bake their cake and eat it too (with a little help from mom and dad). There are so many reasons for a kid to celebrate and this book has desserts for every milestone, from First Day of School Smart Cookies and Family Road Trip Muddy Buddies to Fall Break Snickerdoodles and the Best Birthday Cupcakes.

From Parish: We all know the saying “don’t judge a book by its cover” well, I 100% judged this book by its cover! I’m a big donut guy and the pink sprinkled donuts looked so good, I just had to check this book out for its recipes! (Donut recipe is on page 69!) I highly recommend making the “Father’s Day Pretzel Bark” on page 109. I give it a 10/10.

Baking with Kids

by Leah Brooks | Grade: 1st-5th

Get ready to measure, mix, and decorate! Baking with Kids is just the book you need to help teach children to bake. Show your children how to safely use basic equipment in the kitchen and explain all about the important ingredients they’ll need to make the most delicious baked goods. Recipes include muffins, scones, breads, pretzels, crackers, pizza dough, pie crust, cake, cookies, cupcakes, and more! Celebrated chef and instructor, Leah Brooks creates activities with simple step-by-step photo illustrations that will guide kids through each recipe and inspire creativity throughout. Put on your aprons–it’s time to get baking!

From Parish: I highly recommend this book to those looking for fun ways to bond with their family. This book isn’t only filled with fun recipes the whole family will love, but also gives pointers on how smaller hands can help with the recipe. A must checkout!

Easy Eats: A Bee and PuppyCat Cookbook

by Natasha Allegri | Grade: 6th-12th

Bee and PuppyCat from the popular YouTube series of the same name love to eat, well, almost everything. Their never-ending quest for their next meal or snack leads them on adventures through space and time. Make food magical with this Bee and PuppyCat cookbook of tasty recipes and cooking tips and tricks. For beginner or experienced cooks and intergalactic temp workers alike.

From Parish: Bee and PuppyCat is my favorite TV series. First, if you are a fan of Adventure Time, you’ll love Bee and Puppycat! One of my favorite things about this book is how they indicate how many servings a dish makes… using Puppycat icons!

The Pokemon Cookbook

by Maki Kudo | Grade: 6th-12th

Create delicious dishes that look like your favorite Pokémon characters — from desserts to pizza — with more than 35 easy, fun recipes. Make a Pokémon ball sushi roll, Pikachu ramen or mashed Meowth potatoes for your next party, weekend activity or powered-up lunchbox.

From Parish: Growing up around when Pokemon started, I couldn’t pass checking out a cookbook based on the show! Full of Pokemon puns, this book will teach you how to turn a normal salad into a Shaymin Green Salad (page36). Great book to push your creativity to the next level.

Disney Princess Cookbook

by Disney | Grade: 3rd-12th

Make learning how to cook fun and downright magical with inspiration from the Disney Princesses! Featuring simple step-by-step instructions and mouth-watering photos of each dish, this cookbook makes it easy to whip up enchanting treats, while enjoying captivating illustrations of the princesses and their friends.

From Parish: If you know a fan young or old who LOVES Disney princesses this is the book for them. All the current Disney princesses have a recipe that’s based on their movie, and a few recipes dedicated to their awesome companions. One of my favorite recipes from this book is the Sun Punch (page 103). This punch is supposed to represent a bright golden-yellow light similar to the lanterns used during the light the sky festival during Rapunzel’s birthday.

The Official Harry Potter Baking Book

by Scholastic | Grade: 3rd-12th

Delight in 43 tasty recipes inspired by the Harry Potter films! From Pumpkin Patch Pies to Owl Muffins, Luna’s Spectrespecs Cookies to Hogwarts Gingerbread, The Official Harry Potter Baking Cookbook is packed with mouthwatering recipes that will, dare we say.

From Parish: If you’re a fan of the Harry Potter series, you’ll love all the recipes inspired by the movie. One of my favorite recipes — which is easy to make — are the Wizarding Hats (page 22). Turning simple pigs in a blanket to delicious magical hats. This book will give anyone a taste of Hogwarts!

The Nerdy Nummies Cookbook

by Rosanna Pansino | Grade: 3rd-12th

The Nerdy Nummies Cookbook combines two things Rosanna Pansino loves: geek culture and baking. Her fondness for video games, science fiction, math, comics, and lots of other things considered “nerdy” have inspired every recipe in this book. You’ll find the recipes for many beloved fan favorites from her internet baking show of the same name, such as Apple Pi Pie, the Chocolate Chip Smart Cookie, and Volcano Cake; as well as many new geeky recipes, such as Dinosaur Fossil Cake, Moon Phase Macaroons, and the Periodic Table of Cupcakes.

From Parish: Rosanna Pansino’s Nerdy Nummies YouTube channel was one of my favorites to watch. All her recipes are inspired by video games, science fiction, math, and comics. Rosanna taught us ways to show and share our nerdy side with our friends! One of my favorite recipes is the video game controller cookies (page 150). Being a big gamer myself, I couldn’t pass up baking these delicious, cool cookies!

Super Good: Baking for Kids

by Duff Goldman | Grade: 4th-8th

From New York Times bestselling celebrity chef and host of Ace of Cakes and Kids Baking Championship Duff Goldman, this book teaches budding young bakers how to make dozens of crazy delicious concoctions–from confetti snickerdoodles to unicorn cupcakes to amazing dessert pizzas. With more than 35 delicious recipes and tons of fun fact-filled sidebars on everything from the science of yeast to the history of baking, Super Good Baking for Kids shows kids how to make treats that will amaze parents, delight friends, and make the whole family go “mmmmmm.”

From Parish: When I picked this book up a while ago, I checked it out because it was written by the Ace of Cakes himself, Duff Goldman. (If you haven’t seen any of his shows, I highly recommend you do!) This book is really nice for children who have an interest in baking and would like to master cakes. Duff does not only share really delicious recipes, but helpful hints and lessons during the process. Highly recommend those who have a cake interest or those who enjoy looking at good cakes!

The Unofficial Hocus Pocus Cookbook

by Bridget Thoreson | Grade: 5th-12th (parental guidance)

Since its debut in 1993, the movie has achieved cult-classic fame, with both children and adults as a loyal fanbase. Fans fall in love with the delightful, demonic and diva-esque Sanderson Sisters and the sleepy New England town they torment. Now you can conjure up your own spooky treats and bewitching drinks to celebrate Halloween, whether you’re attending a surprise rave in town, or just spending “a quiet evening at home.” is filled with over 60 recipes for fare inspired by everyone’s favorite witches and their spells, potions, and schemes. It is the ultimate must-have for fans of all ages—but don’t worry, no children were harmed in the test of these recipes.

From Parish: Can we really enjoy October if we don’t spend one day watching our favorite three witches put a spell on all of us? No, we can’t. The Unofficial Hocus Pocus cookbook is a great masterpiece that will satisfy any fan of the movie. Parents, if you’re picking this up for your child, please note that the last few chapters have adult drink recipes.

Want more recommendations?

Spooky YA Thrillers

By bcplweb Booklists, Booklists

It’s that time of year… it’s almost Halloween! The air is cooler, leaves are falling, and we are in the mood for some suspenseful, young adult thrillers! If you liked One of Us is Lying — which has been on the New York Times Bestsellers List for 190 weeks and has a show coming out on Peacock in October — we’ve got a great list of read-alikes to give you a scare!

All of the titles featured here we have in our collection. To see if an item is available to check out or place on hold, click the cover image or button to the right of the description.

The Good Girls

by Claire Eliza Bartlett

Targeted as suspects in the shocking murder of a high school senior, three teens-including a notorious party girl, a head cheerleader and a would-be valedictorian-race to expose long-buried secrets and identify the real killer.

I Killed Zoe Spanos

by Kit Frick

Anna Cicconi’s summer gig as a nanny is supposed to be a fresh start. But the community has been on edge since Zoe Spanos, a local girl, disappeared New Year’s Eve. Anna’s resemblance to Zoe causes her to delve into Zoe’s life. She becomes increasingly convinced that she and Zoe are connected– and that she knows what happened to her. When Zoe’s body is found in a nearby lake, Anna is charged with manslaughter. But Martina Green, teen host of the Missing Zoe podcast, isn’t satisfied. Can her podcast uncover the truth?

Truly Devious

by Maureen Johnson

When Stevie Bell, an amateur detective, begins her first year at a famous private school in Vermont, she sets a plan to solve the cold case involving the kidnapping of the founder’s wife and daughter shortly after the school opened.

The only real clue was a mocking riddle listing methods of murder, signed with the frightening pseudonym “Truly, Devious.” The past has crawled out of its grave: Truly Devious makes a surprise return, and death revisits Ellingham Academy.

A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder

by Holly Jackson

As her senior capstone project, Pippa Fitz-Amobi is determined to find the real killer in a closed, local murder case, but not everyone wants her meddling in the past.

None Shall Sleep

by Ellie Marney

Eighteen-year-olds Emma Lewis and Travis Bell, recruited by the FBI to interview juvenile serial killers, must turn to a notorious teenage sociopath to help track down a new murderer.

The Mary Shelley Club

by Goldy Moldavsky

Scholarship student Rachel keeps to herself at Manchester Prep, preferring the company of horror films to trust fund babies. When a prank puts her on the radar of a mysterious student society, “The Mary Shelley Club”, they subject her to a number of escalating Fear Tests which eventually puts them on the radar of a serial killer.

How We Fall Apart

by Katie Zhao

Jamie Ruan is the queen bee of Sinclair Prep. Until one day, she’s dead. The Proctor, an anonymous poster on the school media app, points the finger at Jamie’s friends. Akil Patel is the school’s track star and he’s running from his secrets. Krystal Choi has a killer sense of fashion, but does that make her a killer? Alexander Lin is always focused on grades, but is hiding a dark secret. Nancy Luo isn’t threatening … unless you get between her and the top spot.

14 Ways to Die

by Vincent Ralph

Ten years ago, Jess’s mother was murdered by the Magpie Man. She was the first of his victims but not the last. Now Jess is the star of a YouTube reality series and she’s using it to catch the killer once and for all. The whole world is watching her every move. And so is the Magpie Man.

They’ll Never Catch Us

by Jessica Goodman

Sisters Stella and Ellie Steckler are both determined to win a scholarship and escape their stifling small town, but their plans are upset when a new girl joins the cross-country team and then disappears.

You're So Dead

by Ash Parsons

Plum Winter and her two best friends sneak into an influencers-only festival event on a private island in the Caribbean. Plum and her friends soon realize that someone has lured each of them to the “festival” to kill them. Someone has a vendetta against every person on the island–and no one is supposed to leave the island alive. So, together, Plum, Antonia, and Marlowe will do whatever it takes to unravel the mystery of the killer, and fight to save themselves and as many influencers as they can, before it’s too late.

That Weekend

by Kara Thomas

After Claire wakes up alone on a mountain with no memory of how she got there, she learns her best friend Kat and Kat’s boyfriend are missing and Kat’s past is full of secrets.

She remembers Friday night, but after that, nothing. Now Kat and Jesse are missing. The answers are buried somewhere in Claire’s memory– and she is pretty sure she is not going to like what she remembers.

The Ivies

by Alexa Donne

Everyone knows the Ivies: the most coveted universities in the United States. Far more important are the Ivies. The Ivies at Claflin Academy, that is. Five girls with the same mission: to get into the Ivy League by any means necessary. I would know. I’m one of them. We disrupt class ranks, club leaderships, and academic competitions…among other things. We improve our own odds by decreasing the fortunes of others. Because hyper-elite competitive college admissions is serious business. And in some cases, it’s deadly.

They Wish They Were Us

by Jessica Goodman

At an exclusive prep school on Long Island, Jill Newman looks forward to her senior year as a member of the school’s most elite clique, the Players, until new evidence surfaces about the murder of her close friend Shaila.

Influence

by Sara Shepard

After her family moves to Los Angeles, Delilah Rollins, already a minor Internet celebrity, plunges into the competitive and glamorous world of social media influencers, but can cosmetics and good lighting conceal cheating, manipulation, blackmail, and murder?

This is Why We Lie

by Gabriella Lepore

When a fellow student is murdered, Jenna Dallas and Adam Cole, who discovered the body, launch their own investigation and discover that everyone in the community of Gardiners Bay has something to hide.

Want more recommendations?

Parish’s Picks: Activity Fun — Part 1

By bcplweb Booklists, Booklists

Hey hey… Parish is back with a new booklist! This time he’s selected some of his favorite activity and DIY books for kids and teens.

With school back in session and the weather turning a little bit cooler, we’re in the mood for crafting and activities! Crafting and hands-on projects (for kids or the entire family!) can be a great way to relieve stress and to let your imagination and creativity run wild. Parish’s booklist includes his personal recommended activity books that crafters of any level will find enjoyment in.

Show Me Cool Magic: A Guide to Creating and Performing Your Own Show

by Jake Banfield | Grade: 2nd and up

This book takes the reader from knowing zero about magic to being able to do a whole show for their family and friends. Along the way they will learn some cool tricks to show their friends in school, find out how to do a PR stunt, film their own tricks, develop their unique magician persona, and all the other secrets to making magic amazing.

From Parish: Who doesn’t love seeing a magician display unbelievable card tricks! I know I do! This book does a good job teaching readers with no experience how to do all kinds of unbelievable magic tricks to impress their friends! I highly recommend this book for readers who are looking for new skills or something to impress their peers.

My First Rock Painting Book: 35 Fun Craft Projects for Children Aged 7+

by Emma Hardy | Grade: 2nd and up

In My First Rock Painting Book, craft expert Emma Hardy shows how to take a simple rock and transform it into something truly amazing.

From Parish: I was inspired to try rock painting a try thanks to Miss Penny and Miss Diane’s rock painting program. If I had to pick any book to give me inspiration for painting rocks, this is the book to pick! It is filled with tons of creative ideas and instructions. You can definitely find something to make; my favorite is the rock cactus.

Crayola Create It Yourself

by Crayola LLC | Grade: 1st and up

Crayola: Create It Yourself includes fifty-two of the most popular and fun craft projects, organized by the four seasons: fall, winter, spring, and summer. Kids will create DIY gifts like Mother’s Day picture frames and Valentine’s Day Lanterns, they’ll decorate the house with Haunted Halloween Decorations and Melted Crayon Ornaments, and they’ll make timeless paper spinners and CIY terrariums for use all year round.

From Parish: Crayola is one of my favorite brands and the book lives up to the Crayola name! Readers who are a fan of card making, any type of decorations, and have a box of crayons laying around (either Crayola or not!) will enjoy this book!

Writing a Letter

by Cecilia Minden | Grade: 3rd and up

Writing is an important skill that kids use almost every day. The goal of the Write it Right series is to make kids writing experts. Writing a Letter is full of tips and tricks to help kids craft an engaging letter, from constructing an introduction to labeling the envelope.

From Parish: Now, I know what you’re thinking, “Mr. Parish, why are you recommending a letter writing book when we’re trying to de-stress?” Hear me out! Who doesn’t enjoy receiving a handwritten letter in the mail? Especially from a loved one? I know I do, and if you’re interested in our PenPal Exchange program, why not brush up on some new letter writing skills! With the holidays approaching, after crafting a beautiful homemade card, why not write a lovely letter with it? 🙂

Recycle and Remake

by DK | Grade: 1st and up

This gentle, but empowering book is full of creative making activities, information, and ideas that give young eco-warriors (like you!) the know-how to really help the environment.

From Parish: Recycle and Remake is a must read and craft because it shows you how to give old things new life. This is perfect for readers who like to discover fun ways to turn cardboard into a piñata or turn straws into a bee hotel!

Ultimate Slime

by Alyssa Jagan | Grade: 1st and up

DIY tutorials for crunchy slime, fluffy slime, fishbowl slime and more than 100 other oddly satisfying recipes and projects.

From Parish: SLIME! I highly recommend this book to any one and I mean ANY who loves SLIME! Every page in this book explains different ways to create awesome, slimy, gooey slime that everyone will enjoy!

Let’s Get Crafty With Cardboard and Paint

by CICO Kidz | Grade: 1st and up

These fun, colorful crafts are designed to bring out a young child’s creative side. The inventive ideas include a super space rocket, colorful rainstick, and cardboard castle.

From Parish: I just love any type of crafting that utilizes cardboard! Cardboard is so easy to obtain you can create any type of craft! This book is perfect for readers who have tons of cardboard lying around the house. I highly recommend the airplane craft!

A Kid’s Guide to Awesome Duct Tape Projects

Grade: 1st and up

It is a known fact of the universe that duct tape can fix anything. Now, thanks to Instructables.com, there’s one more thing duct tape can fix—boredom! These awesome DIY crafts will be sure to entertain and delight kids of all ages.

From Parish: Fun book for middle schoolers, tweens, and teens! This is a book that teaches how to make durable wallets and other projects with duct tape! Perfect for readers who enjoy creating their own gifts for family and friends.

The Everything Toddler Activities Book

by Joni Levine | Grade: Present

Now you can play and teach your toddler at the same time with this book. Written by an experienced child-care expert, this informative and fun guide shows you how to stimulate your child’s development with age-appropriate, enjoyable, and educational activities such as:

Making Puppets
Margarine Tub Jellyfish
Dinosaur Eggs
Flower Crowns
Story in a Bag
Camping “Out”
Plus rhymes and songs, holiday fun, and crafts galore!

From Parish: Parents who are seeking activities for their younger kids should check this book out! Written by an experienced child-care expert, this book has tons of information to help with your child’s development. You can also have your older children tag along too.

Want more recommendations?

Hispanic Heritage Month / Mes de la Herencia Hispana: Part 1

By bcplweb Booklists, Booklists, Booklists

Each year, we observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15 by celebrating the histories, cultures, and contributions of Americans whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. During National Hispanic Heritage Month, we celebrate Hispanic and Latino Americans who have positively influenced and enriched our nation and society.

We’ve put together a selection of youth and teen books and stories in both English and Spanish in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month. Reunimos una selección de libros e historias para jóvenes y adolescentes tanto en inglés como en español en honor al Mes de la Herencia Hispana.

Mango, Abuela, and Me by Meg Medina

Mango, Abuela, y Yo por Meg Medina

Mia’s abuela has left her sunny house with parrots and palm trees to live with Mia and her parents in the city. While they cook, Mia helps Abuela learn English, and Mia learns some Spanish, too, but it’s still hard for Abuela to learn enough words to tell Mia her stories. Then Mia sees a parrot in the pet-shop window and has the perfecto idea for how to help them all communicate a little better. Here is an endearing tale that speaks loud and clear about the love that binds families across the generations.

La abuela de Mia viene a vivir con Mia y sus padres. Cuando Mia eomparte con ella su cuento favorito a la hora de dormir, descubre que la abuela no entiende inglés. Mia la ayuda con el inglés y a la vez ella aprende algunas palabras en español. Pero la abuela no conoce suficientes palabras en inglés para compartir las historias de familia con su nieta. Un dia, Mia ve un loro en una tienda de mascotas y descubre la manera de ayudar a su abuela.

Thank you, Omu! by Oge Mora

¡Gracias, Omu! por Oge Mora

When the aroma of Omu’s homemade stew fills the air, her neighbors arrive, one by one, for a taste until all is gone except for her generous spirit.

¡Todos en el vecindario sueñan con probar el delicioso guiso de Omu! Uno por uno, siguen sus narices hacia el delicioso aroma. Y uno por uno, Omu ofrece una porción de su comida. Pronto la olla está vacía. ¿Ha sido tan generosa que ya no le queda nada?

Dreamers by Yuyi Morales

Soñadores por Yuyi Morales

Dreamers is a celebration of making your home with the things you always carry: your resilience, your dreams, your hopes and history. It’s the story of finding your way in a new place, of navigating an unfamiliar world and finding the best parts of it. In dark times, it’s a promise that you can make better tomorrows.

Soñadores es un homenaje a los migrantes y a todo lo que traen con ellos, y aportan, cuando dejan sus países. Es una historia de familia. Una historia que nos recuerda que todos somos soñadores que llevamos nuestros propios regalos donde quiera que vayamos. Bella y poderosa en todo momento, pero especialmente de una urgente premura hoy en día en que el futuro de los dreamers es incierto, esta es una historia actual y eterna.

Be Bold! Be Brave! 11 Latinas Who Made U.S. History by Naibe Reynoso

¡Sé audaz, sé valiente! : 11 Latinas que hicieron historia en Estados Unidos por Naibe Reynoso

A bilingual book that highlights 11 Latinas who excelled in their professions and made U.S. History by accomplishing something that hadn’t been done before in various fields including medicine, science, sports, art and politics.

Un libro bilingüe que destaca a 11 latinas que sobresalieron en sus profesiones e hicieron historia en los Estados Unidos al lograr algo que no se había hecho antes en varios campos, incluidos la medicina, la ciencia, los deportes, el arte y la política.

Carmela Full of Wishes by Matt de La Peña

Los Deseos de Carmela por Matt de La Peña

When Carmela wakes up on her birthday, her wish has already come true–she’s finally old enough to join her big brother as he does the family errands. Together, they travel through their neighborhood, past the crowded bus stop, the fenced-off repair shop, and the panadería, until they arrive at the Laundromat, where Carmela finds a lone dandelion growing in the pavement. But before she can blow its white fluff away, her brother tells her she has to make a wish. If only she can think of just the right wish to make…

Hasta ahora el cumpleaños de Carmela no puede ser mejor. Hoy es lo suficientemente mayor para acompañar a su hermano en su recorrido por la ciudad. Y la tarde que pasan juntos se llena con la magia de lo que ven a su alrededor: desde el brillante sol de los campos hasta las golosinas en la vidriera de la panadería. Pero cuando recoge un diente de león que crece en el concreto, se pregunta qué otra cosa podría desear…y decide entonces salir en busca del deseo perfecto.

Alma and How She Got Her Name by Juana Martinez-Neal

Alma y Cómo Obtuvo Su Nombre por Juana Martinez-Neal

If you ask her, Alma Sofia Esperanza José Pura Candela has way too many names: six! How did such a small person wind up with such a large name? Alma turns to Daddy for an answer and learns of Sofia, the grandmother who loved books and flowers; Esperanza, the great-grandmother who longed to travel; José, the grandfather who was an artist; and other namesakes, too. As she hears the story of her name, Alma starts to think it might be a perfect fit after all — and realizes that she will one day have her own story to tell.

Si le preguntas, Alma Sofia Esperanza José Pura Candela tiene demasiados nombres: ¡seis! ¿Cómo acabó una persona tan pequeña con un nombre tan grande? Alma se dirige a papá en busca de una respuesta y se entera de Sofía, la abuela que amaba los libros y las flores; Esperanza, la bisabuela que anhelaba viajar; José, el abuelo que fue artista; y otros homónimos también. A medida que escucha la historia de su nombre, Alma comienza a pensar que, después de todo, podría encajar perfectamente y se da cuenta de que algún día tendrá su propia historia que contar.

Esperanza Rising by Pam Muñoz Ryan

Esperanza Renace por Pam Muñoz Ryan

Esperanza and her mother are forced to leave their life of wealth and privilege in Mexico to go work in the labor camps of Southern California, where they must adapt to the harsh circumstances facing Mexican farm workers on the eve of the Great Depression.

Esperanza Ortega tiene todos los tesoros que una chica pueda desear: hermosos vestidos, una linda casa llena de sirvientes en México, y la promesa de que un día llegará a presidir el Rancho como su mamá. Pero una tragedia inesperada destruye ese sueño, obligando a Esperanza y a su madre a escapar a California dónde tendrán que trabajar en una finca junto a otros mexicanos. Allí tendrá que olvidar su pasado y enfrentarse a las nuevas realidades de su vida: trabajo duro, aceptación y dificultades económicas. Esperanza descubrirá que la verdadera riqueza está en la familia y la comunidad.

Mexican Whiteboy by Matt de La Peña

Pocho por Matt de La Peña

Sixteen-year-old Danny searches for his identity amidst the confusion of being half-Mexican and half-white while spending a summer with his cousin and new friends on the baseball fields and back alleys of San Diego County, California.

Danny, de dieciséis años, busca su identidad en medio de la confusión de ser mitad mexicano y mitad blanco mientras pasa un verano con su primo y nuevos amigos en los campos de béisbol y callejones del condado de San Diego, California.

Breaking Through by Francisco Jimenez

Senderos Frontizeros by Francisco Jimenez

Having come from Mexico to California ten years ago, fourteen-year-old Francisco is still working in the fields but fighting to improve his life and complete his education.

Venido de México a California hace diez años, Francisco todavía trabaja en los campos, pero a la edad de catorce ya está luchando para mejorar su vida y para terminar su educación.

I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter by Erika Sanchez

Yo No Soy Tu Perfecta Hija Mexicana por Erika Sanchez

Perfect Mexican daughters do not go away to college. And they do not move out of their parents’ house after high school graduation. Perfect Mexican daughters never abandon their family. But Julia is not your perfect Mexican daughter. That was Olga’s role. Then a tragic accident on the busiest street in Chicago leaves Olga dead and Julia left behind to reassemble the shattered pieces of her family. And no one seems to acknowledge that Julia is broken, too. Instead, her mother seems to channel her grief into pointing out every possible way Julia has failed. But it’s not long before Julia discovers that Olga might not have been as perfect as everyone thought. With the help of her best friend Lorena, and her first kiss, first love, first everything boyfriend Connor, Julia is determined to find out. Was Olga really what she seemed? Or was there more to her sister’s story? And either way, how can Julia even attempt to live up to a seemingly impossible ideal

Julia no es la hija mexicana perfecta. Ese era el rol de su hermana Olga. Olga no fue a la universidad, se quedo en casa para cuidar a sus padres, limpiar la casa y trabajar a medio tiempo. Julia tiene grandes suenos y no quiere formar parte del camino de su hermana mayor. Pero un solo error, que ocurre mientras enviaba un mensaje de texto al mismo tiempo que cruzaba la calle mas concurrida de Chicago, resulta en la muerte de Olga, dejando atras a Julia para ocuparse de las secuelas. Sus padres, quienes inmigraron ilegalmente a Chicago desde Mexico en busca de una vida mejor, estan inconsolables. La madre de Julia parece canalizar su dolor para senalar de todas las maneras posibles que Julia no es la hija mexicana perfecta que Olga era. Pero Julia pronto descubre que Olga puede haber tenido secretos, tambien. Con la ayuda de su mejor amiga Lorena, Julia esta decidida a descubrirlo. ¿Era Olga realmente lo que parecia? ¿O habia algo mas en la historia de su hermana? Y de cualquier manera, ¿como puede Julia incluso intentar vivir a la altura de un ideal aparentemente imposible.

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A Back-To-School Booklist

By bcplweb Booklists, Booklists

All Are Welcome

by Alexandra Penfold

Illustrations and simple, rhyming text introduce a school where diversity is celebrated and songs, stories, and talents are shared.

I Got the School Spirit

by Connie Schofield-Morrison

As a new school year begins, a young girl is filled with school spirit as she zips her book bag shut, rides the bus, enjoys her classes, and eagerly anticipates the next day.

My First Day

by Leilani Sparrow

Get ready to go, it’s the first day of school! Follow one little boy as he experiences all the firsts a first day of school brings, from his first story to his first friend, in this sweet reassuring picture book.

It's Your First Day of School, Busy Bus!

by Jody Jensen Shaffer

Today is the very first day of school! Busy Bus is excited, but he also has some first-day jitters. Luckily, bus driver Ben knows just what to do to make sure that the school year gets off to a great start.

First Grade, Here I Come

by Nancy Carlson

Henry tells his mother that he did not like his first day of first grade, but as he describes what he did and learned, he begins to realize that he might enjoy it after all.

Wow! School!

by Robert Neubecker

Izzy finds many things to be excited about on the first day of school.

Mouse’s First Day of School

by Lauren Thompson

When he goes to school, Mouse finds a world of new objects and new friends.

Hello School!

by Priscilla Burris

A diverse class of excited youngsters are about to start school and experience all its wonders! Small moments like discovering one’s own cubby space and big moments like a first nature walk are all brought to life with inviting artwork.

Lola Goes to School

by Anna McQuinn

Lola meets new friends and tries many new things on her fun but exhausting first day of school.

The Night Before Preschool

by Natasha Wing

In rhyming text based on “The Night Before Christmas, ” Billy is too nervous to sleep the night before he begins preschool, but a kind teacher and new friends fill the day with fun.

Monsters Love School

by Mike Austen

Nervous monsters attending school for the first time learn new things, make friends, and sample Chef Octi’s special School Gruel.

The King of Kindergarten

by Derrick Barnes

Starting kindergarten is a big milestone–and the hero of this story is ready to make his mark! He’s dressed himself, eaten a pile of pancakes, and can’t wait to be part of a whole new kingdom of kids. The day will be jam-packed, but he’s up to the challenge, taking new experiences in stride with his infectious enthusiasm! And afterward, he can’t wait to tell his proud parents all about his achievements–and then wake up to start another day.

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