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The City of Ember

Jeanne DuPrau

Many hundreds of years ago, the city of Ember was created by the Builders to contain everything needed for human survival. It worked - but now the storerooms are almost out of food, crops are blighted, corruption is spreading through the city and worst of all - the lights are failing. Soon Ember could be engulfed by darkness-But when two children, Lina and Doon, discover fragments of an ancient parchment, they begin to wonder if there could be a way out of Ember. Can they decipher the words from long ago and find a new future for everyone? Will the people of Ember listen to them?

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The Swifts: A Dictionary of Scoundrels

Beth Lincoln

On the day they are born, every Swift child is brought before the sacred Family Dictionary. They are given a name, and a definition. A definition it is assumed they will grow up to match. 
Meet Shenanigan Swift: Little sister. Risk-taker. Mischief-maker.

Shenanigan is getting ready for the big Swift Family Reunion and plotting her next great scheme: hunting for Grand-Uncle Vile’s long-lost treasure. She’s excited to finally meet her arriving relatives—until one of them gives Arch-Aunt Schadenfreude a deadly shove down the stairs.

So what if everyone thinks she’ll never be more than a troublemaker, just because of her name? Shenanigan knows she can become whatever she wants, even a detective. And she’s determined to follow the twisty clues and catch the killer.

Deliciously suspenseful and delightfully clever, The Swifts is a remarkable debut that is both brilliantly contemporary and instantly classic. A celebration of words and individuality, it's packed with games, wordplay, and lots and lots of mischief as Shenanigan sets out to save her family and define herself in a world where definitions are so important.

Cover may vary.

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Pearl: a Graphic Novel

Sherri L. Smith

With five starred reviews and numerous accolades, a beautifully crafted and captivating graphic novel from award-winning writer Sherri L. Smith and Eisner-nominated artist Christine Norrie about a Japanese-American girl who must survive years of uncertainty and questions of loyalty in Hiroshima during World War II.

Amy is a thirteen-year-old Japanese-American girl who lives in Hawaii. When her great-grandmother falls ill, Amy travels to visit family in Hiroshima for the first time. But this is 1941. When the Japanese navy attacks Pearl Harbor, it becomes impossible for Amy to return to Hawaii. Conscripted into translating English radio transmissions for the Japanese army, Amy struggles with questions of loyalty and fears about her family amidst rumors of internment camps in America -- even as she makes a new best friend and, over the years, Japan starts to feel something like home. Torn between two countries at war, Amy must figure out where her loyalties lie and, in the face of unthinkable tragedy, find hope in the rubble of a changed world.

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The Makers Club

Reimena Yee

Raina Telgemeier's Drama set in Southeast Asia. The Maker's Club, a gorgeous graphic novel from an Eisner-nominated author, is about a group of kids who blend art and science to create incredible projects in video gaming, fashion, and a whole lot more.

Join the Makers Club, where art and science come together! This graphic novel contains two stories in one. In the first story, readers meet Nadia and Priya, who are paired up for a science fair project. With Nadia's art and Priya's coding skills, they make a video game that's sure to impress, but soon learn there's more to teamwork than just having the individual skills. In the second story, old friends Aqilah and Yong Qiang reconnect at their new school. As they both try to pursue their passions in fashion design and engineering, they'll soon find that trying to do everything and please everyone catches up to you eventually.

Readers will love this colorful graphic novel that's all about friendship, crafting, and coming up with creative solutions.

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Lion Dancers

Cai Tse

A Junior Library Guild Selection 

Former best friends become bitter rivals when one returns to lion dancing after a long absence in this vibrant and heartfelt middle grade graphic novel perfect for fans of Haikyu!! and Fence.

Young Wei dreamed of being a legendary lion dancer just like his dad. With his best friend Hung performing as the tail and Wei controlling the head, he knew they could become the next generation of lion dance champions. But after his dad’s sudden passing, Wei abruptly quits lion dancing—and his friendship with Hung.

Years later, Wei is stuck…in life, in school, and on the bench at games. That is, until he crashes a junior lion dance practice and feels his long-sleeping passion wake up within him once more. The team is happy to have another member to carry on the tradition, especially as one as preternaturally talented as Wei. There’s just one person who doesn’t want him there: the self-proclaimed star, Hung.

As Wei and Hung fight to be considered the top lion dancer, both will have to learn how to face their mistakes head-on and remember what it really means to be part of a team.

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Cat Companions Maruru and Hachi Vol. 1

Yuri Sonoda

An odd couple of stray cats team up to share the trials and tribulations of life in this heartwarming manga.

Maruru lived a pampered life till one day, he ran after a flock of sparrows and couldn't find his way back home. He encounters Hachi, a tough stray, who says he doesn't need a spoiled house cat on his territory and chases him away. But then Maruru helps Hachi out of a jam, and they team up to face life on the street together.

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Steve, a Pretty Exceptional Horse

Kelly Collier

The first installment in a hilarious early graphic novel series, based on Kelly Collier’s popular picture book introducing the one and only (just ask him!) Steve the Horse. Steve the Horse wants to be exceptional … you know, like a peacock! His friend Bob tries to reassure him that he’s special, but Bob can’t seem to think of anything exceptional about him. Steve is discouraged ... That is, until he finds a shiny gold horn in the forest. Obviously, somebody left this exceptional horn for him to find! He ties it to his head and prances off to show his friends. Who’s exceptional now? Steve, that’s who! Only, as Steve’s friends make clear, dressing up and showing off are not the answer. Kids will relate to both the humor and life lessons from this endearingly oblivious horse!

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Taxi Ghost

Sophie Escabasse

In this hilarious and heartwarming graphic novel, a young girl's first period brings an unexpected gift: the ability to see ghosts! As she meets these spectral visitors, she uncovers her family's secret lineage of mediums, while learning about the power of compassion and community.

Adèle just wants to spend her winter break at the library, cozied up with her favorite books, and completely forgetting abut her friends who are all traveling to warmer climates. Unfortunately, life has other plans...not only does Adèle get her first period...but she learns she comes from a long line of mediums!

And if seeing ghosts wasn't enough of a surprise, Adèle learns that not only can she interact with them, but apparently, they've been using her sister's car to get around the city for years! When the ghosts won't leave her alone Adèle starts to get to know about them and their problems. Maybe helping them out will be just what she needs for an exciting winter break!

From Sophie Escabasse, the author of the beloved Witches of Brooklyn, comes a brilliant graphic novel that explores growing up and the importance of standing up for what you believe in.

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Tales of Terror: a Graphix Book (Marvel's Rocket and Groot)

Amanda Deibert

Join Marvel's fan-favorites Rocket and Groot in this delightfully spooky graphic novel adventure!

Determined to pull off another (not so) successful heist, Rocket and Groot find themselves trapped in the forest with a mysterious cloaked figure. The problem? They can't actually leave the woods until they tell the scariest story ever heard. Zombie aliens? Not scary enough. Bloodthirsty bugs? Nope, not good enough either. It isn't until the rest of the Guardians of the Galaxy arrive that Rocket and Groot even stand a chance!

Join the Guardians of the Galaxy in this hilarious (and spooky) Graphix adventure! It's perfect for young fans of the beloved Marvel characters.

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Disney Manga: Kilala Princess - The Collection, Book One

Rika Tanaka

Kilala is an ordinary girl who loves reading stories about princesses and their courageous adventures. When she comes across a sleeping prince and kisses him awake, she's tossed into an adventure straight out of a fairy tale! The prince, Rei, comes from a faraway land searching for the magical princess destined to save his kingdom. But the ruthless villains threatening his home are after him and Kilala's best friend, who they think is the magical princess. On top of it all, the Disney Princesses are the key to understanding the magic of their world. Now, they must travel to each of their worlds to rescue Kilala's best friend and protect Rei's home.

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Teddy Vs. the Slimy Evil

Braden Hallett

The secrets of Ravensbarrow have been buried far too long. Now they're coming to light . . .

Teddy and his friends uncover a monstrous--and cheesy--terror in the second installment of this laugh-out-loud series for fans of My Big Fat Zombie Goldfish and The Incredibly Dead Pets of Rex Dexter.

Book 2: Teddy vs. the Slimy Evil

After facing a horde of brain-eating hamsters, Teddy is DONE with Ravensbarrow. He's desperate to move back to his hometown, but he'll need proof to convince his parents to leave. So when Teddy's new friends invite him to explore Ravensbarrow's mysterious trails, he sees his chance to capture some paranormal phenomena on camera. How dangerous can that be? Sure, people have disappeared in the misty forest. And the town legends about glowing mushrooms and murderous owls are . . . unsettling. Okay, FINE, Teddy is terrified. But all he needs is one little picture . . .

About the Series: Alongside a crew of misfits, Teddy untangles the supernatural mysteries of the rainy town of Ravensbarrow in this highly illustrated, action-packed horror comedy series.

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Super Dinosaur Compendium One

Robert Kirkman

"A rollicking science adventure with vile villains and a good mix of family issues—and, of course, dinosaurs." — School Library Journal

The Evil Max Maximus wants to get to Inner-Earth! He wants the dinosaurs that live there! He wants the powerful DynOre mineral that originates there! SUPER DINOSAUR and DEREK DYNAMO are the only ones who can stop him! The fate of the world rests on the shoulders of a ten year-old kid and his best friend, a nine-foot tall Tyrannosaurus Rex who loves to play video games.

Superstars Robert Kirkman (Invincible, The Walking Dead) and Jason Howard (Batman, The Flash) present the action-packed buddy story perfect for readers of all ages – and all species!

Collects the entire SUPER DINOSAUR #1-23 series and SUPER DINOSAUR ORIGIN SPECIAL #1.

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Season's Eatings

Lisi Harrison

The third title in the slightly scary, extremely addictive contemporary middle-grade series from New York Times bestselling authors Lisi Harrison and Daniel Kraus--perfect for fans of scary stories for kids, like R. L. Stine's Goosebumps, or books for preteens, like Ann M. Martin's The Babysitters Club.

It's the holiday season, but the Graveyard Girls aren't feeling the right type of spirit . . .

Gemma is struggling with trying to save the Spirit Sanctuary, while Whisper is reeling from her father's recent engagement announcement to Paisley's mother. Zuzu has taken on the assignment of town ghost whisperer, Frannie is looking for drama in her drama-less life, and Sophie is being haunted by a possessed doll. And through all this, the girls are receiving electrifying messages from beyond the grave that may lead them to Silas Hoke's missing bones.

For a not-so-merry fright, Gemma tells a deliciously creepy tale that takes the lesson of "be careful what you wish for" to a whole new level.

Fans of author Lisi Harrison's Monster High books will enjoy this new entry in the Graveyard Girls series of mystery books for kids. Anyone looking for scary books for 10-year-old girls will find exactly what they need in this thrilling next chapter in the Graveyard Girls series.

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The Night Librarian: A Graphic Novel

Christopher Lincoln

Night at the Museum meets The Land of Stories in this thrilling new graphic novel adventure series in which two siblings, a mysterious Night Librarian, and a motley cast of book characters try to save the New York Public Library

Twins Page and Turner know about the magic a library holds—they’ve been going to their beloved New York City public library for years, especially since their parents are always traveling for work.

But a secret mission involving their dad’s rare and valuable edition of Bram Stoker’s Dracula uncovers a world they’ve never known, featuring a mysterious Night Librarian, famous heroes (and villains) that have broken free from classic books, and an epic battle to save the library from total destruction.

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Spy School Goes Wild

Stuart Gibbs

In the twelfth book in Stuart Gibbs’s New York Times bestselling Spy School series, superspy middle schooler Ben Ripley gets lost on a perilous mission with one of his greatest enemies.

Ben Ripley is recruited for a top secret mission to bring down his nemesis, Murray Hill, once and for all. But when things go horribly wrong, Ben ends up lost in an extremely dangerous wilderness with Murray—and confronting a new, devious enemy—with none of his friends to help him. Now, Ben must figure out how to survive and deduce what evil plan his new enemy is plotting in time to thwart it.

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The Moosicians

Steve Behling

Meet The Moosicians--four ador-a-bull cows who share one dream: winning Amoorica's Next Big Thing. But there's trickery amuck. Will the other bands butcher their chances? Find out in this laugh-out-loud funny full-color graphic novel that's perfect for fans of Pizza and Taco, Fry Guys, Dog Man, and InvestiGators.

Hugh Oxley dreams of becoming a singer. But he's never left his farm. Daisy wants to shred on her guitar for big crowds. Tauro plays bass, and though he's a bull of few words, his notes can't be beat. Coco is a drummer. She's good. She's also INTENSE. Together, this ragtag crew is The Moosicians. They're hilarious, they're fun, and they're ready to ROCK.

But can The Moosicians win the music competition, or are ALL of their dreams doomed?

This laugh-out-loud graphic novel will have readers cheering for The Moosicians. Plus, there's a rat named Myrna. Wait, we didn't write that. Did Myrna . . . ? Never mind.

Hey, you there. Yeah you, reading this. Got any good trash that I can hide in? xoxo, Myrna the Rat

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Evelyn and Avery: the Art of Friendship

Elle Pierre

Set in a whimsical world with both human and animal friends, this debut graphic novel series is about besties who make crafts, mistakes, and friendships. Publishers Weekly Early Reader Spotlight Pick!

Kirkus Reviews says, "A cute yet complex tale about solving conflicts with creative solutions...Pierre's illustrations have a bubbly, lighthearted energy, and her characters physically express big emotions."

Eight-year-old Evelyn is beyond excited to enter her town's annual art show! She joins two of her friends with a plan to submit a group project, but Dylan and Avery (a playful and imaginative skunk kit) start butting heads early on in the creative process. When Evelyn tries to diffuse the tension, both friends end up angry at her and the group splits apart.

What will this mean for their art--and, more importantly, for their friendships

The first book in a new graphic novel series for young readers, Evelyn and Avery is all about navigating friendship and emotions, fostering different kinds of creativity, and forgiveness. Set in a world with both human and animal characters, the series is both relatable and whimsical.

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Barbie

Liz Sonneborn

Barbie changed what a doll could be. Before her, many dolls were baby dolls. Girls would care for these dolls and practice being mothers. But Barbie let girls imagine other futures. The iconic doll had many careers, inspiring girls to dream of new possibilities for themselves and for women.

In the early 1950s, Ruth Handler was watching her daughter, Barbara, and her friends play with paper dolls. The dolls resembled women. Handler saw how the girls imagined themselves as the dolls. But paper dolls were flimsy and delicate. Handler thought the kids' imaginations could take off even more if they had durable dolls. This led her to create Barbie dolls. These days about two Barbies are sold every second. Barbie has her own movies and TV series. The 2023 blockbuster Barbie dominated the box office. Learn more about Barbie and her impact.

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Percy Jackson and the Olympians: Wrath of the Triple Goddess

Rick Riordan

In his continuing quest to earn college recommendation letters from the gods, Percy has to pet sit the goddess Hecate's polecat and giant mastiff during Halloween week. What could go wrong?

Rick Riordan's newest Percy Jackson adventure is full of hilarious set pieces, a diverse cast of gods and monsters, and many other delightful tricks and treats.

Percy Jackson, now a high school senior, needs three recommendation letters from the Greek gods in order to get into New Rome University. He earned his first one by retrieving Ganymede's chalice. Now the goddess Hecate has offered Percy another "opportunity"--all he has to do is pet sit her polecat, Gale, and mastiff, Hecuba, over Halloween week while she is away. Piece of cake, right?

Percy, Annabeth, and Grover settle into Hecate's seemingly endless mansion and start getting acquainted with the fussy, terrifying animals. The trio has been warned not to touch anything, but while Percy and Annabeth are out at school, Grover can't resist drinking a strawberry-flavored potion in the laboratory. It turns him into a giant frenzied goat, and after he rampages through the house, damaging everything in sight, and passes out, Gale and Hecuba escape. Now the friends have to find Hecate's pets and somehow restore the house, all before Hecate gets back on Saturday. It's going to take luck, demigod wiles, and some old and new friends to hunt down the animals and set things right again.

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What Do We Know About the Yeti?

Ben Hubbard

The What Do We Know About? series explores the mysterious, the unknown, and the unexplained. Does the ape-like Yeti really roam the Himalayan mountain range?

Not quite human and not quite an animal, the Yeti has been the subject of speculation for centuries. In modern times, the Yeti has become a popular cryptid, appearing in movies, books, and TV shows. Although there are many claimed sightings of the Yeti, there is no real evidence that it exists. This elusive cryptid, also known as the Abominable Snowman, remains a mystery. Does the Yeti truly live in the snowy Himalayas? Have the Sherpa who live there spotted him at the highest altitudes? Here are the facts about what we really know about Yeti sightings, research, and lore.

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The Unofficial Alcatraz Handbook

Kristen Tracy

Get to know the history and mysteries of Alcatraz Island, home to one of the world's most famous prisons. This landmark off the coast of San Francisco was once home to many well-known criminals, including Al Capone.

Former Alcatraz Island volunteer and seasoned author Kristen Tracy takes young readers on an adventure through the historic prison's grounds in this dynamically illustrated book packed with interesting facts and important stories. From individual cells in the Main Cellhouse to the ruins of the Warden's House, readers will get an in-depth tour of the island and its buildings. Tracy also shares important stories about how Alcatraz got its name, famous escape attempts, the gardens and the birds of the island, as well as the Native American groups who once occupied "The Rock."

Award-winning illustrator Anika Orrock highlights the island’s beautiful (and also grim) history with stunning artwork that brings to life this mysterious island. Author Kristen Tracy brings her personality-filled writing to a classic topic sure to be a hit with young readers. Written with a sharp eye for detail and an occasionally comedic voice, this book provides curious kids with a compact yet thorough history of America’s most notorious prison island.

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Super Frenemies! (Simon and Chester Book #5)

Cale Atkinson

Join Simon and Chester in their fifth and most daring adventure yet! A hilarious early graphic novel series for fans of The Bad Guys and Dog Man.

The worst has happened: Chester has been sucked up by a ghost trap in an attempt to save his best friend Simon, who is a ghost.

Chester's school friend, Amie, blames Simon — after all, if Chester wasn't trying to save him, he wouldn't have been sucked up. And Simon blames Amie — after all, if Amie's dad wasn't a ghost hunter, there wouldn't be a trap there in the first place.

But these two sworn enemies are going to have to work together to save Chester before the containment unit is emptied . . . into the void! Will they save him in time? Will they change their minds about each other? Will Chester make some new ghoul friends while he's trapped? Read on to find out . . .

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A Sky Full of Dragons

Tiffany McDaniel

For younger fans of Witchlings and Eva Evergreen comes a light-hearted and whimsical middle grade fantasy about a young girl who must save her witch aunt from an uncommonly voracious hat.

Where dragons take flight, through the dark of the night. Where the fire ignites, you will find the light.

Aunt Cauldroneyes is always looking into cauldrons. She’s found everything from giggling moons to troll nose rings, but when she looks inside a purple cauldron one stormy night, she finds a girl with blue freckles. 

The old witch raises the girl and names her Spella. They live in Hungry Snout Forest in a crooked house with doors enchanted to smell like chocolate. In the attic full of floating fabric and biting buttons, Aunt Cauldroneyes teaches Spella how to make magical hats for creatures like unicorns and dragons, giants and goblins.

When Spella turns eight, she receives an invitation to Dragon’s Knob, a school for wand witchery and wizardry. But on the very night Spella is set to leave, a stranger appears with a growling hat that swallows Aunt Cauldroneyes and steals her away!

To rescue her aunt, Spella must go up into a sky full of dragons and to her new school. With protesters outside the gates threatening the school’s academic freedom and a deepening mystery within the walls, Spella and her new friend Tolden are thrust into the mystery of her aunt’s disappearance and a long-buried secret hidden somewhere in the school.

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Impossible Creatures

Katherine Rundell

#1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • Two kids race to save the world’s last magical place in the first book of a landmark new fantasy series, from “a writer with an utterly distinctive voice and a wild imagination.” (Philip Pullman, author of The Golden Compass

*This spectacular book features foil and embossing on the jacket, full-color designed endpapers, red stained edges, and a red case cover with gold stamping.*

“An instant classic from one of the most gifted storytellers of our time, Impossible Creatures is an astonishing miracle of a book.” —Katherine Applegate, Newbery Medal Winner for The One and Only Ivan

A WALL STREET JOURNAL BEST CHILDREN'S BOOK OF THE YEAR • A PUBLISHERS WEEKLY AND KIRKUS REVIEWS BEST BOOK OF THE YEAR

The day that Christopher saved a drowning baby griffin from a hidden lake would change his life forever. 

It’s the day he learned about the Archipelago—a cluster of unmapped islands where magical creatures of every kind have thrived for thousands of years, until now. And it’s the day he met Mal—a girl on the run, in desperate need of his help.

Mal and Christopher embark on a wild adventure, racing from island to island, searching for someone who can explain why the magic is fading and why magical creatures are suddenly dying. They consult sphinxes, battle kraken, and negotiate with dragons. But the closer they get to the dark truth of what’s happening, the clearer it becomes: no one else can fix this. If the Archipelago is to be saved, Mal and Christopher will have to do it themselves.

Katherine Rundell’s story crackles and roars with energy and delight. It is brought vividly to life with more than 60 illustrations, including a map and a bestiary of magical creatures.

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Dr. Seuss Graphic Novel: The Grinch Takes a Vacation

Kaeti Vandorn

He's a little mean, definitely green, and now Dr. Seuss's beloved and iconic character, The Grinch, is starring in his very own chapter book graphic novel! Everyone's favorite holiday grump is back in a brand-new adventure and he already needs a vacation!

It's vacation time in Whoville but The Grinch doesn't understand...what is a vacation? 

Determined to learn what the Whos seem so excited about, The Grinch decides to give a vacation a try! Unfortunately the mountains are too snowy, the beach is too sandy and the theme park is too loud . . . vacations just might not be something that Grinches do? Thankfully, his dog Max isn't letting the Grinch give up that quickly!

Will there be some fun in the sun for everyone's favorite Grinch or is the Whos' favority grumpy neighbor doomed to stay home?

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Alex Wise vs. the Cosmic Shift

Terry J. Benton-Walker

No one ever said saving the world would be easy. In the second installment of this thrilling fantasy series all about finding your inner hero, a 12-year-old boy leads the charge against the Horsemen of the Apocalypse.

Alex Wise is no superhero. Or at least, he doesn't feel like one. Sure, he vanquished Death and saved his sister Mags—with the help of some new magic powers, his best friend Loren and demi-god Liam. But the apocalypse shows no signs of slowing down. Now, Alex and his friends will have to find new allies and face new dangers—from battling a giant snake in a literal ghost town and infiltrating the Horsemen’s new home base on the Vegas Strip…on the back of a dragon. 

With everyone looking to him for answers, Alex isn't sure he's cut out for this world saving thing. And the closer he gets to Liam, the farther away he feels from Loren and from Mags, who hasn't been the same since she was possessed by Death. How can Alex lead a team if he doesn't even feel like he deserves to be a part of it? 

“Never has the apocalypse been so fun!"
—Mark Oshiro, author of THE INSIDERS and co-author with Rick Riordan of THE SUN AND THE STAR: A NICO DI ANGELO ADVENTURE.

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The Train of Dark Wonders

Alex Bell

Jump aboard for a journey to strange and spectacular lands…

The magical must-read middle-grade novel from the bestselling author of THE POLAR BEAR EXPLORERS’ CLUB and FROZEN CHARLOTTE. 

Bess has always loved her grandfather’s collection of curiosities. So she’s delighted when she’s handed the keys to his Odditorium. But unless she finds a way to draw in the crowds, she’ll have to close its doors for good.

When a mysterious train pulls into town, bound for The Land of Halloween Sweets, Bess hatches a plan and sneaks onboard. She is soon discovered by Beau the puppeteer, Louie the violinist and Maria the fire witch. Eager to join their adventure, Bess sets out to search for the rarest sweet of all – the ghostly gobstopper. 

But the land is ruled by the fearsome Candymaker. And beneath the sugary surface, things are more dangerous than they first appear...

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The Super Sunny Murder Club

Abiola Bello

A collection of sizzling summer-themed crime and mystery stories by thirteen of the most exciting children's book authors!

Co-edited by Serena Patel, the award-winning author of the Anisha: Accidental Detective series and by Robin Stevens, author of the bestselling Murder Most Unladylike series.

This gorgeous summery collection brings back together thirteen bestselling, award-winning and exciting authors: Abiola Bello, Annabelle Sami, Benjamin Dean, E.L. Norry, Elle McNicoll, Dominique Valente, Maisie Chan, Nizrana Farook, Patrice Lawrence, Robin Stevens, Roopa Farooki, Serena Patel and Sharna Jackson. With stunning illustrations by Harry Woodgate.

Grab your sunnies and your magnifying glass, and join the Murder Club for more sensational short stories as they lead you on a journey of foul play and murderously magnificent mysteries! Including sun-thieves, fantastical creatures of the deep, airport mayhem, weddings gone wrong, tropical resort travesties, and a very sticky situation at a berry picking farm.

This is the prefectly entertaining collection to pack in every young reader's summer holiday bag.

Serena Patel is the winner of the This Week Junior's Young Fiction Book of the Year award. Her debut children's series Anisha Accidental Detective won the fiction category of the Sainsbury's Children's Book Awards, being shortlisted for a British Book Award and the Blue Peter Prize 2021 and selected for The Reading Agency's Summer Reading Challenge. Serena lives in Walsall with her family.

Robin Stevens is the award winning and bestselling author of the Murder Most Unladylike mystery series. She was born in California and has been making up stories all her life. When she was twelve, her father handed her a copy of The Murder of Roger Ackroyd and she realised that she wanted to be either Hercule Poirot or Agatha Christie when she grew up. She spent her teenage years reading a lot of murder mysteries and hoping that she'd get the chance to do some detecting herself (she didn't). Robin lives in Oxford.

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The Monstrous Adventures of Mummy Man and Waffles

Steve Behling

"Mummy Man and Waffles is a nonstop thrill, chill, and slimy spill ride full of creepy crawlers and ludicrous laughs!" --John Patrick Green, New York Times bestselling author of the InvestiGators series

"A popcorn bucket of a book...propelled by one lighthearted narrow escape from danger after another." --Kirkus Reviews

Get ready for some spooky fun in the first installment of this all-new middle grade series from author Steve Behling, featuring side-splitting illustrations throughout by Robb Mommaerts!

Wen Wyler (aka Waffles) is eleven years old and is forced to spend the summer in Maine with his grandpa, a former Hollywood makeup and special effects artist for classic horror films. Ever seen The Beast with a Thousand Toes, Glaarg!?Or its sequel, Glaarg! Again!? If so, then you might be familiar with his work.

Wen, a horror movie aficionado, is persuaded to go when he finds out that part of the summer will be spent helping his grandpa sort through and organize his basement filled with props. Grandpa's young neighbor, Tanya, has already been corralled into helping, and together they dig in until Wen accidentally brings one of the props to life.

Mummy Man is a good guy, but the other creatures aren't so good. It's up to Wen, Tanya, and Mummy Man (and his pet turtle, Frank) to stop the creatures from turning the town into the nexus for an all-out monster invasion.

Now available in a lower-priced hardcover edition!

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Otto Normal's Monsterton: The Disappearance of White Pine Beach

Danielle McKechnie

Otto Normal and his mom have moved to Monsterton, but there's one problem--they're not monsters. In this first book of the hauntingly beautiful and highly illustrated Monsterton series with graphic novel pages interspersed throughout, Otto and his friends embark on a journey to find the legendary White Pine Beach. But the friends find much more than they bargained for when one of their own goes missing . . . possibly forever.

In this hauntingly delightful, highly illustrated first book in a new series, eleven-year-old Otto and his mom move to Monsterton, a gorgeous island on the border of the Belcarra forest and a mysterious place called The Dark. Monsterton is picturesque and beautiful; it's an idyllic place for monsters to be themselves. There's Hamish and his brother Ben, who have been created and sewn together by their pirate father; the royal vampires, Red and Rose, who are followed around by their dutiful guards; Remi, a ghost girl who can appear and disappear at will; Darby, a quiet girl made entirely of slime; and Luck, a zombie who always she thinks she's right. In Monsterton, each monster can be themselves. They are free to be as scaly, slimy, or scary as nature intended.

There's only one teeny, tiny problem. Otto and his mom aren't monsters.

As a human, Otto feels that he has to prove himself. After all, as Remi the ghost girl reminds him, he's so fragile. Along with Otto's new friends Hamish, Darby, and Luck, the group sets out to find the legendary White Pine Beach--a beach so mysterious, it's rumored to jump locations, never staying in the same place for too long. But what the ragtag team of monsters (and one human) discovers is far more mysterious than a location-jumping beach. And when one of their number doesn't return home with them . . . rumors swirl.

Can Otto find his new friend, fit in with the monsters, and stay true to himself? And what does a lost strix, a bird-girl living as an outcast in Belcarra, know?

This spooky, delightful, and charming full-color, highly illustrated novel with graphic novel inserts is perfect for fans of Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children and Five Nights at Freddy's. Debut author Danielle McKechnie weaves compelling lore and storytelling with delightful characters brought to life by illustrator Simón Estrada.

"McKechnie capably balances the characters' humorous antics with steadily rising stakes while Estrada's animated illustrations expertly utilize light and shadow to deepen the atmosphere of this promising series opener, a dual debut." - Publisher's Weekly

"Rich illustrations amp up the delightful eeriness with deeply saturated colors and a playfully rendered cast of ragtag characters who will leave readers eager for the next installment." - Kirkus

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Rise of Pegasus

Joan Holub

From the authors of the Goddess Girls and Heroes in Training series comes the first book in the School for Magical Monsters series about Pegasus’s first day at school—part of the Aladdin QUIX line!

Pegasus is very excited for his first day at the School for Magical Monsters! At his old school, he was the only creature there, but now, he won’t be alone. In fact, everyone there will find their special power—and Pegasus can’t wait to discover his!

But the first few days are a little rough—poor Pegasus keeps on stumbling over his hooves! And it seems like all his new friends start to receive their power before her does. With a little help from his new friends and a little magic, can Pegasus learn to soar at his new school?

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The Ghosts of Nameless Island

Carly Anne West

Twelve-year-old Gus Greenburg can see ghosts; in fact, he uses this paranormal superpower to help them "go on." But when Gus and his mom move into an old mansion on the mysterious and remote Nameless Island, he meets a ghost that's set out to hurt him. Bestselling author Carly Anne West weaves a spooky and thrilling series opener in this spine-tingling tale about mystery, family, and all things paranormal.

After his dad goes missing and his mom is hired to restore an old building called the Rotham Manor, twelve-year-old Gus Greenburg and his mom move to a quaint, secluded island called Nameless. Gus was hoping for a new start on the island (despite throwing up on the boat ride there . . . twice), but a mysterious ghost has another idea. Throw in a mean kid who hides rats in the manor, two new friends, an eclectic island chef who's competing to be on a reality TV show, and Gus's power to talk to the dead . . . well, that's a lot of chaos for one kid!

Gus needs to find out the identity of the mysterious ghost - and fast - or else he might be doomed to the same lethal fate.

That is, if the island's signature "Heavenly Hash" dish doesn't get to him first.

The Ghosts of Nameless Island is the first book in a new trilogy from bestselling author Carly Anne West. It's infused with Carly Anne West's signature wit and humor, and spooky enough for fans of Claribel Ortega's Ghost Squad, Scott Cawthon's Five Night's at Freddy's, and Carly's own Hello Neighbor series. This book also features black-and-white spot illustrations throughout.

"Along with this classically atmospheric setting and scary thumps and other noises aplenty, West treats readers to multiple specters that are even more rousingly hideous in her descriptions than in Skaffa's spiky, stylishly grotesque monochrome scenes and spot art . . . Hints of dark doings in the island's past also emerge before this trilogy opener ends with a sudden and terrifying cliffhanger . . . All the shivery feels, escalating to the nightmarish in spots." - Kirkus

"Join author Carly Anne West on Nameless Island for a haunting, spine-tingling mystery that will leave you on the edge of your seat! The Ghost of Nameless Island is an illustrated tale of hidden rats, mystery ghosts, and reality TV that is sure to lift your spirits." - Terrance Crawford, bestselling author of the Piggy series

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Welcome to Scare School

Jarrett Lerner

A young ghost tries his best to fit in with the rest of the ghouls in this sweet and spooky chapter book by acclaimed author Jarrett Lerner.

Bash, a young ghost who’s never been good at “ghost stuff” is heading off to Scare School, the world’s leading institution for elementary scare instruction, and he’s not happy about it. In fact, he’s kind of scared! His older sister Bella, precocious in every way, was a star student there and he knows the classes are hard and the teachers are tough. 

Even before his first day of school, Bash is worried about how he’s going to make it through the rigorous curriculum when he hasn’t been able to get the hang of basics like making himself invisible or passing through walls (without bonking his head!). Will the young ghost get booooted out of Scare School?

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Say What? How We Communicate

Radka Piro

This vibrant children's book delves into diverse forms of communication, using colorful illustrations and intriguing facts to explore speech, body language, the internet, and more.

Uncover the secrets of communication in this vibrant educational children's book. From the art of speech and body language to the wonders of modern technology, we will explore the varied forms of human interaction. With its bright and colorful illustrations, this book teaches young readers all about speech, gestures, facial expressions, touch, symbols, writing, and more. To add a fun twist, kids can search for various emotions hidden on the endpapers.

Designed for curious young minds, this book, illustrated by an award-winning artist, is an essential tool for understanding the intricate art of communication. It fosters social skills and emotional intelligence, offering kids ages 9-12 valuable insights into how to improve their relationships with those around them. Whether your child is a social butterfly or an introverted bookworm, this book is a treasure trove of knowledge that will enhance their communication skills.

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Mushrooms Know

Kallie George

An adorable, STEM-themed picture book for kids 4 to 8 that reveals the wisdom mushrooms have to teach us.

Mushrooms always wear their thinking caps. They know so many things. This vibrant and informative book shares the fascinating lessons that fungi can teach us: that small can be mighty, being unique is a reason to celebrate--and staying connected is key. Sara Gillingham's lively art and Kallie George's charming text captures the wondrous world of mushrooms, and everything we can learn from it.

Featuring over fifty kinds of mushrooms, Mushrooms Know shares:

  • Engaging informational side bars with wild facts about mushrooms (such as how some are so strong they can grow through cement, and others can glow in the dark!)
  • Backmatter that dives further into the science
  • Important life lessons (including how to help each other and keep our homes clean)

For budding mycologists and forest adventurers alike, this is a must-have addition to the science and nature bookshelf.

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Hike It

Iron Tazz

"Solid info combined with amazing destinations make this a good intro to hiking and backpacking"--Kirkus

Discover camping, hiking, and backpacking with internet sensation Iron Tazz

This fully illustrated book is the perfect introduction to enjoying America's great outdoors. Explore 20 National Parks with incredible trails that take you past snow-capped mountains, along stunning coastlines, and through ancient forests, and discover the majesty of nature with glorious artwork throughout. This book is packed with practical information, too.

Young adventurers 7+ will learn about:
* Navigating, and what to do if you get lost
* Essential hiking equipment
* How to leave no trace and protect the environment
* Pooping in the woods!
* Staying safe in the heat, snow, and rain
* Fire safety and setting up camp
* Encountering wildlife and safety
* Locating the North Star and understanding the night sky

Author and internet sensation Iron Tazz offers a wealth of information based on years of experience hiking every kind of trail and from sharing adventures with his own little boy. Full of kid-friendly tips and tricks for enjoying nature, this is the perfect book for learning how to hike your own hike.

National Parks and trails: Olympic National Park; Mount Rainier National Park; Redwood National Park; Death Valley National Park; Yosemite National Park; Acadia National Park; Wind River Range; Sawtooth National Forest; Grand Canyon National Park; Glacier National Park; Arches National Park; Yellowstone National Park; Great Smoky Mountains National Park; Crater Lake National Park; Petrified Forest National Park; Denali National Park and Preserve; Pacific Crest Trail; Appalachian Trail; North Cascades National Park; Continental Divide National Scenic Trail

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Black History Heroes: Chadwick Boseman

Chris Singleton

Chadwick Boseman, King of Wakanda, A Hero On and Off the Screen, shows the power of grit, perseverance, and character in a dynamic biography for kids.

★ "This empowering and engaging middle grade biography series about Black changemakers gets off to a strong start.....Strongly recommended for juvenile nonfiction collections."--School Library Journal, starred review

★ "The book beautifully chronicles Boseman's struggles and triumphs....Readers will be enraptured with this magnificent tribute to the life of Chadwick Boseman, who was a true hero that anyone could look up to."--Booklist, starred review

From Howard University to the red carpet at the Academy Awards, from James Brown to the Black Panther, Chadwick Boseman was a talented and multi-award-winning actor and performer. Prior to his death from colon cancer in 2020, Boseman's rise to fame might have seemed overnight to some, but decades of hard work and dedication to his craft brought him to the highest levels an actor can achieve. .

An inspiration to millions, the life of Chadwick Boseman is indeed proof that Black history matters.

Black History Heroes shares the lives and inspirations of black men and women who changed the world, yesterday, today, and for tomorrow. Written by acclaimed, former pro-baseball player, inspirational speaker, and author Chris Singleton

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You Are a Raccoon!

Laurie Ann Thompson

The second in an adorable, STEM nonfiction picture book series that encourages very young readers to learn—through gentle interactivity and play—about the animals who share their world

Crawl, cling climb! You may have seen a raccoon scurry up a tree or across the road just before dark. Did you know that raccoons stay up at night playing, hunting, and eating when you go to sleep? From birth to first stripes and beyond, discover all that goes into being a raccoon in this charming picture book, the second in the Meet Your World series.

This playful and informative series invites you to take a closer look at the amazing animals that live right alongside you in rural, suburban, and urban landscapes across North America. In each book, words and art inspire you to act out animal actions that are not so different from your own habits. And robust backmatter offers even more facts and fun. From the animals’ families and foods to their environments and behaviors, let’s meet your world!

"Truly a perfect blend of education and fun with the addition of adorable illustrations."SLJ

"Exceptionally adorable . . . Deftly connects natural human children’s activities to raccoon behaviors."Kirkus

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You Are a Garter Snake!

Laurie Ann Thompson

The fourth in the adorable, STEM nonfiction picture book series that encourages very young readers to learn—through gentle interactivity and play—about the animals who share their world

Stretch, bend, twist! You may haves seen a small, slim garter snake disappear between rocks or flowers. Did you know that garter snakes spray smelly stuff to scare off predators, sniff with their tongues, and cuddle together for winter? From birth to first shedding and beyond, discover all that goes into being a garter snake in this charming picture book, the fourth in the Meet Your World series.

This playful and informative series invites you to take a closer look at the amazing animals that live right alongside you in rural, suburban, and urban landscapes across North America. In each book, words and art inspire you to act out animal actions that are not so different from your own habits. And robust backmatter offers even more facts and fun. From the animals’ families and foods to their environments and behaviors, let’s meet your world!

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When We Flew Away: A Novel of Anne Frank Before the Diary

Alice Hoffman

Bestselling author Alice Hoffman delivers a stunning novel about one of contemporary history's most acclaimed figures, exploring the little-known details of Anne Frank's life before she went into hiding.

Anne Frank's The Diary of a Young Girl has captivated and inspired readers for decades. Published posthumously by her bereaved father, Anne's journal, written while she and her family were in hiding during World War II, has become one of the central texts of the Jewish experience during the Holocaust, as well as a work of literary genius.

With the Nazi occupation of the Netherlands, the Frank family's life is turned inside out, blow by blow, restriction by restriction. Prejudice, loss, and terror run rampant, and Anne is forced to bear witness as ordinary people become monsters, and children and families are caught up in the inescapable tide of violence.

In the midst of impossible danger, Anne, audacious and creative and fearless, discovers who she truly is. With a wisdom far beyond her years, she will become a writer who will go on to change the world as we know it.

Critically acclaimed author Alice Hoffman weaves a lyrical and heart-wrenching story of the way the world closes in on the Frank family from the moment the Nazis invade the Netherlands until they are forced into hiding, bringing Anne to bold, vivid life.

Based on extensive research and published in cooperation with the Anne Frank House in Amsterdam, When We Flew Away is an extraordinary and moving tour de force.

Perfect for Alice Hoffman fans and readers of every age.

"Adding new poignance to a story whose ending we already knew, Alice Hoffman has deftly recreated the child Anne Frank with all her wit, mischief, and uncertainties. This fictionalized account of the increasingly desperate years that preceded the famous diary breaks readers' hearts one more time. But it reminds us of how important it is to remember and honor all that was lost." -- Lois Lowry, Newbery Award-winning author of Number the Stars

"We can highly recommend Alice Hoffman's novel of Anne Frank's life, set in the dramatic and terrible circumstances of those first war years. We hope it will persuade young readers that contributing to a better world is both necessary and possible." --Ronald Leopold, Executive Director, Anne Frank House

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That Curious Thing

Chris Raschka

A delightful middle grade adventure by two-time Caldecott Medal winner Chris Raschka about good, evil, and cats. Generously illustrated with black-and-white illustrations.

When a twelve-year-old girl named Cleo and her cat, Muffin, become the newest members of PURR (Peace Urgently Requires Reasonableness), a secret society of cats fighting for peace, they aren't exactly sure what they're getting themselves into. Then, PURR discovers that KLAW (Cats Loving Awful Warfare), an evil secret society of cats, is planning to send dogs to space for ransom. PURR tasks Cleo to infiltrate KLAW as a secret spy so together they can stop them. It will take the intelligence, confidence, and tenacity of a feline to save the world from KLAW's evil plans. Does Cleo have what it takes

Includes gorgeous black-and-white watercolors by two-time Caldecott Medalist Chris Raschka.

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A Strange Thing Happened in Cherry Hall

Jasmine Warga

From the award-winning, New York Times bestselling author of A Rover's Story and Other Words for Home comes an extraordinary story about two friends, a ghost, a missing painting, and a turtle named Agatha. The perfect next read for fans of The Swifts, Kate DiCamillo, and Erin Entrada Kelly.

A painting has been stolen...!

When Rami sees a floating girl in the museum, he knows he has seen her somewhere before. Then he realizes: She looks just like the girl in the painting that has gone missing. But how does her appearance connect to the theft

Agatha the turtle knows--she has been watching from the garden. But she can't exactly tell anyone...can she

Will Rami, with the help of his classmate, Veda, be able to solve the mystery The clues are all around them, but they'll have to be brave enough to really look.

This is a whimsical, moving story about the universal desire to be seen and understood and how art can help us find connection, even when we are at our loneliest.

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The No-Brainer's Guide to Decomposition

Adrianna Cuevas

In Pura Belpré Honor-winning author Adrianna Cuevas's new spooky middle grade novel. Frani must fight to stop the undead from rising in her father's body-farm laboratory--that is, if she can embrace the true nature of her brain and its ADHD.

No one has ever called Frani Gonzalez squeamish. Seriously, whether it's guts (no big deal), bugs (move aside, she's got this), or anything else that you might find at the Central Texas Forensic Anthropology Research Facility, to her and her dad, the university's body farm is just home.

Having bodies buried in her backyard doesn't exactly make Frani the most popular kid in school, and the imaginary spider that lives in a web in her brain isn't helping either. Arañita's always to blame for the distracted thoughts weaving through Frani's mind. But when a hand reaches out of the ground and grabs her ankle, Frani realizes that she's got bigger problems.

Not everything is as it seems at the body farm, and now Frani must help the teenage zombie that crawled out of the dirt...before he gets too hungry. But as more and more zombies begin to appear--and they seem to get less and less friendly--can Frani embrace the true nature of her brain and count on new friendships to solve the body farm's mystery before it's overrun with the undead

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How to Be a Vet and Other Animal Jobs

Jess French

A friendly and fascinating book about how to work with animals, for children from 6+, written by vet and CBeebies presenter Dr. Jess French. Do you have what it takes to become a vet, a horse trainer, or to work at a nature reserve? Find out all about the incredible animal jobs you could do, from training to becoming an animal behaviorist or a wildlife rehabilitator to working at a zoo or even becoming a bug wrangler! This fully illustrated book will inspire any child with an interest in animals.

How to Be a Vet is the first in the How to Be a... series, authored exclusively by women, which explores a wide range of careers for young readers to aspire to.

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Miles Morales Untangles a Web

Terrance Crawford

Miles Morales is on the case in this original Marvel chapter book with black-and-white illustrations throughout!

Miles Morales loves spending time at the new center that Tony Stark has just opened. There, he and other kids can take classes, play sports, and even work on art projects. Which is exactly what Miles is doing when he discovers that someone is trying to steal top-secret files from the Stark Center.

Luckily, King T’Challa and his sister Shuri are in New York, and Shuri is just the tech genius who can help Miles save the day. Can this team identify and capture the villain before the Stark Center is completely destroyed?

Miles is determined to untangle this web in this chapter book that’s perfect for Marvel fans beginning to read on their own or for reading aloud!

© 2024 MARVEL.™

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Dungeons & Dragons: Dungeon Club: Time to Party

Molly Knox Ostertag

The party continues but the problems get bigger in this second installment of this original Dungeons & Dragons graphic novel series brought to you by New York Times bestselling author Molly Knox Ostertag and critically acclaimed illustrator Xanthe Bouma.

Olivia loves being the Dungeon Master of her after-school club, creating a world with magic and epic battles with adventure around every corner. She's always felt at home in her game, but now--with new members and new plotlines--her world has gotten more complicated than ever.

It doesn't help when Olivia's older sister, Lu, comes home from college and brushes off all Olivia's hard work, telling her to get real. A seed of doubt is planted, and suddenly the colorful world of her game starts to fade around her. Will Olivia be able to keep everything from changing, or will the party fall apart?

Praise for Dungeons & Dragons: Dungeon Club: Roll Call

"An absolutely wonderful story that exemplifies the joys, challenges, and lifelong memories forged between friends in the creative furnace of roleplaying games. The vibrant, energetic art further elevates the beautiful dichotomy between epic, fantasy adventures and finding one's place in those awkward teenage years. I couldn't help but see much of myself and my own youth in parts of each character as they find their companions in real life through their imaginary adventures, and the sense of unparalleled bonding one finds within a good game group resonates deeply throughout this story. I absolutely loved it." --Matthew Mercer, creator of Critical Role

"The power D&D has to help you explore and express yourself is on full display in this lovely story of friendship and growing up." --Kat Leyh, author of Snapdragon

"Perfectly captures the magic when the world you create with your friends becomes as real as the world around you." --Tim Probert, author of the Lightfall series

"A thrilling and gorgeous adventure that goes straight for your heart." --ND Stevenson, New York Times bestselling author of Nimona

"What Molly Ostertag and Xanthe Bouma pull off in Dungeon Club is nothing short of astounding. Contained within these magical pages are not one but two amazing stories: fantasy and reality woven masterfully together by Ostertag's spellbinding storytelling. An adventure filled with fun, magic, and deep insight into the trials and tribulations of High School, Dungeon Club is what we in the D&D world would call a 'Critical Hit'! To everyone who knows that there's always adventure and a little bit of magic just around the corner, this book will be a treasured artifact for years and years to come!" --Brennan Lee Mulligan, creator of Dimension 20

"Scoring high on charisma, this tale of personal growth is bound to win many a curious young fan over to D&D's allure." --Kirkus Reviews

"Middle grade readers intrigued by the cult classic RPG and fans fond of popular campaigns like Adventure Zone and Critical Role will enjoy the message of this series opener: 'Monsters are easier to fight when you've got people by your side.'" --ALA Booklist (starred review)

"For readers who are fans of or are curious about role-playing games, or those seeking heartwarming stories about friendship and imagination." --School Library Journal

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The Queen of Ocean Parkway

Sarvenaz Tash

An 11-year-old podcaster-turned-sleuth teams up with the new kid in the building to find their missing neighbor! A captivating adventure perfect for fans of When You Reach Me and Only Murders in the Building.

Eleven-year-old Roya is the superintendent’s kid in her regal Brooklyn apartment building, so she knows pretty much everything there is to know about its residents. An aspiring reporter, she even hosts a secret podcast about the lives of the building’s tenants. It’s a good distraction from the problems in her own life. 

But when Katya Petrov, one of her favorite tenants, goes missing, Roya discovers an eerie connection to Grandmother’s Predictions, an antique fortune-telling machine at Coney Island. "Grandmother" has been linked to multiple disappearances in the Petrov family over the last century. Now, with the help of a new friend who’s just moved in, it’s up to Roya to make her own headlines as she searches for Katya and attempts to break the Petrov curse once and for all.

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The Princess in Black and the Kitty Catastrophe

Shannon Hale

The Princess in Black may know how to handle all kinds of monsters, but a kitten set on destruction? Me-OW!

Duchess Wigtower had heard that pets are fun, but all her kitten has gotten her is nine lives' worth of problems. Eeeeek! It's time for someone else to deal with this catastrophe. Princess Magnolia is thrilled when a kitten lands on her doorstep, but just as she's about to play with Plumpkins (or should it be Hugmaster Floof?) the monster alarm goes off. When Princess Magnolia returns to her castle, her furry companion has carved up the wallpaper! In fact, each time Princess Magnolia leaves to help the Goat Avenger fight a very grouchy monster, her feline friend wreaks havoc. Has the Princess in Black finally met her match? Ten years after she first donned her cape, the Princess in Black returns for a purrfectly hilarious entry to the New York Times best-selling series.

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Popcorn

Rob Harrell

The beloved author of Wink is back with a hilarious and moving story about coping with anxiety on a day when everything is going wrong

Andrew’s just trying to make it through Picture Day, which is easier said than done when it seems like the whole world is out to get him—from a bully to a science experiment gone wrong to a someone else’s juice snot (don’t ask).

But as Andrew goes through the school day, and as one thing after another goes wrong, that little kernel of worry in his stomach is getting hotter and hotter, until it threatens to pop and turn into a public panic attack, his worst fear. He tries to keep his anxiety at bay, but the news that his grandmother with Alzheimer’s is missing is too much.

Interspersed with humorous spot art and “anxiety file” panels that depict the real, difficult feelings of anxiety and OCD and real tips for coping, this is a poignant, personal, and laugh-out-loud funny story about letting go of control and accepting help—all while trying to get the perfect school picture.

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Meesh the Bad Demon #2: The Secret of the Fang

Michelle Lam

Meesh the Bad Demon is no stranger to saving the world—but she never thought she’d have to do it twice! Can she defeat the darkness once and for all in this sequel of epic proportions?

When Meesh banded together with Fairy Princess Nouna to save the underworld, she never expected she’d have to… do it again someday. Though, as Meesh grows into her newly discovered destiny as the Guardian of the world, she figured there would be a few minor rescues, maybe some crime-fighting here or there.

But before long, her new friend Chai’s family is forced out of their home by an evil force who threatens to destroy all of fox-kind if they dare stay. Meesh suspects the same masked villain she faced before is behind all of this, but will she be able to stop them before it's too late?

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The Long Way Around

Anne Nesbet

In an exciting wilderness adventure, three cousins are cut off from their parents by a huge earthquake--and must hike long and treacherous mountain trails back to safety, with only each other to rely on.

During a hiking trip with their parents in the mountains of California, cousins Owen, Vivian, and Amy are finally allowed to camp for one night at a little lake all on their own. But when a massive earthquake blocks their return path, there's only one way home: the long way around, through a wilderness filled with fierce animals, raging rivers, unstable weather, and high passes. The hardest challenges the cousins face, however, are the troubles they've brought with them: bold Vivian's fear of starting middle school and of changes she can't control, Owen's lingering emotional scars from a car accident, and Amy's desire to live in stories rather than in boring regular life. Drawing on courage and humor, the cousins weather storms, make the most of dwindling rations, and face their deepest fears in order to bring each other safely home. This gripping contemporary novel from celebrated author Anne Nesbet is bursting with excitement, rich natural settings, and characters who will have readers rooting for them all the way.

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Lola

Karla Arenas Valenti

A simmering tale of magic, adventure, and the extraordinary bond between a brother and sister who'd journey to the ends of the Earth to save each other. From the acclaimed author of Lotería comes a heartfelt story rooted in Mexican magical realism.

A KIRKUS REVIEWS BEST BOOK OF THE YEAR

Ten-year-old Lola has always been touched by magic. In her Mexico City home, built around a towering tree, she is accustomed to enchanted blooms that change with the seasons, a sandbox that spits out mysterious treasures, and mischievous chaneques that scuttle about unseen by all but her. Magic has always been a part of her life, but now she must embrace the extraordinary as never before.

Ever since The Thing That Happened, Lola's brother Alex has been sick. As his condition worsens, something begins eating away at the tree, causing its leaves and blossoms to crumble like ash. The two are related, Lola is sure of it, but how? Seeking a cure, she visits a grocery store oracle who bids her to follow the chaneques down one of their secret passages... into a hidden world.

Here in Floresta, a land of myths and monsters and marvels untold, lies the key to healing her brother. But the kingdom's young queen stands in the way. Lola must use her wits and face her deepest fears if there's any hope of saving Alex in time.

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Greenhouse of Horror

Liv Livingston

Liv’s class visits the greenhouse and encounters some strange plants in book three of the Spirited graphic chapter book series.

Liv’s science class has a new botany project: finding the plant that best represents them. Mrs. Arber, the ghost caring for (and haunting) the Gloomsdale Botanical Gardens, comes in to give a helping hand. In a town full of ghosts, Liv isn’t even sure she knows who she is, but when she meets a new ghost friend, she discovers that maybe she’s not the only one feeling like the odd-ghoul-out.

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Kristy and the Walking Disaster: a Graphic Novel (the Baby-Sitters Club #16)

Ann M. Martin

A Baby-sitters Club graphic novel adapted by National Book Award longlister and Eisner-nominated cartoonist Ellen T. Crenshaw!

They're lean, they're mean, they're the pride of Stoneybrook. Who are they? They're Kristy's Krushers!

When Kristy sees how much her little brothers and sister want to play on a softball team, she starts a ragtag team of her own. Maybe Kristy's Krushers aren't world champions (how could they be, with Jackie Rodowsky, walking disaster, playing for them?), but nobody beats them when it comes to team spirit.

Now Bart's Bashers have challenged the Krushers to a game. It's bad enough that the Bashers truly are lean and mean -- but what's worse is that Kristy has a crush on the Bashers' coach!

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Quagmire Tiarello Couldn't Be Better

Mylisa Larsen

Wry humor and sharp insight capture the distinctive voice of a young teen forced by his mother's unstable mental health to recalibrate his outlook and build a new life with found family. For fans of Gary D. Schmidt and Rebecca Stead.

A PUBLISHERS WEEKLY BEST BOOK

A KIRKUS REVIEWS BEST BOOK

FIVE STARRED REVIEWS!

Quagmire Tiarello prides himself on not needing anything from anybody. Sure, his mom is skipping work again and showing signs of going into one of her full-out spins, but it's nothing he can't handle. He's used to her up-and-down moods, even if this time it feels a little different.

Then his mom disappears, and Quag must find shelter with an uncle he didn't know he had. Should he come clean about his mother's mental health challenges? Or can he use his carefully honed skills to bluff long enough to find his mom and get home? Readers will root for Quag as he finds himself rethinking his world and learning to accept help from the people who love him.

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Morgana and Oz Volume One

Miyuli

A September/October 2024 Kids' Indie Next List Selection

When a witch girl meets a vampire boy from a rival clan, sparks of love and war start to fly. Volume 1 collects episodes 1-19 of the hit fantasy WEBTOON series by Miyuli.

"An adorable adventure with a thrilling ending" --Kirkus

What happens when a struggling witch meets an angsty vampire? Either love or war.

Morgana belongs to a long line of witches, and Oz to the rival vampire clan. After a chance encounter . . . and maybe a few stray spells . . . these two need to find a way to work together, or risk all-out war between coven and clan.

Volume one features episodes 1-19 of the hit fantasy WEBTOON series.

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Kwame Crashes the Underworld

Craig Kofi Farmer

Discover a stunning middle grade fantasy about a boy hurled into the Ghanaian underworld to help his grandmother save humanity, perfect for fans of Tristan Strong and Amari and the Night Brothers.

Twelve-year-old Kwame Powell isn't ready to deal with losing his grandmother, even as he and his family head to Ghana for her celebration of life. 

He's definitely not ready when he's sucked into a magical whirlpool that leads straight to Asamando, the Ghanaian underworld. There, he comes face to face with his grandmother, who is very much alive, and somehow still...a kid? Together with his best friend, Autumn, and a talkative aboatia named Woo, Kwame must battle angry nature gods, and stop the underworld from destroying the land of the living.

But there's an even bigger problem: Only living souls can leave Asamando. In order to save the mortal world and return home, Kwame will need to find the courage to do the bravest thing of all -- learn how to say goodbye.

Praise for Kwame Crashes the Underworld:
A Kirkus Reviews Best Book of the Year
A Chicago Public Library Best Book of the Year
★ "A grand tale, funny and terrifying in turns, steeped in Ghanaian spirituality and folklore, and wrapped around themes of identity, obligation, true friendship, and devastating loss." — Kirkus Reviews, starred review
★ "This swashbuckling, supernatural adventure into the land of Ghanian mythology will have all readers (and especially fans of Rick Riordan Presents titles) craving more. Highly recommended." — School Library Journal, starred review
"Brimming with laughter, joy, and beautiful messages about grief, hope, lost loved ones, identity, and the ancestors, Kwame Crashes the Underworld rattles the spirit. Kwame Powell is a much-welcomed hero to the canon of children's books." — Dhonielle Clayton, New York Times-bestselling author of The Marvellers and The Memory Thieves
“Craig Kofi Farmer brings to life the myths of Ghana with heart, humor, and cinematic flair. I wish this book had existed when I was a child. I dare readers not to let Kwame Powell into their hearts.” — Roseanne A. Brown, New York Times-bestselling author of Serwa Boateng’s Guide to Vampire Hunting

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Camp Twisted Pine

Ciera Burch

Whispering Pines meets Small Spaces in this spooky middle grade novel about a girl whose first summer camp experience is disrupted by a menacing creature abducting her fellow campers.

Eleven-year-old Naomi loves all things outdoors—birds and beetles, bats and bunnies—in theory. She explores nature in the best possible way: the cold, hard facts in books. So when her parents’ announcement of their impending divorce comes hand in hand with sending Naomi and her younger twin brothers to summer camp while they figure things out, it’s salt in the wound for Naomi and her avoidance of hands-on experience.

Camp Twisted Pine could be worse. The counselors are nice, and Naomi likes her cabinmates, especially Jackie, whose blunt personality and frank dislike of the camp draws Naomi in quickly. Jackie is also hard of hearing and uses a hearing aid, and the girls quickly develop a routine of sign language lessons in their free time, which Naomi sees as a welcome break when all the s’mores-making and nature walks get to be a bit much. 

But the campers aren’t the only ones who roam the grounds of Camp Twisted Pine. When people start to go missing, including Jackie, Naomi has to find a way to save everyone—and herself. Her practical knowledge of the outdoors may still be rudimentary at best, but she has years of studying and the scientific method to fall back on. Can Naomi identify and stop the dangerous predator before it’s too late?

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What Is a Presidential Election?

Douglas Yacka

This revised edition (updated for the 2024 election) explains American presidential campaigns and includes stickers, activities, and a color-your-own Electoral Map!

Who can run for president? What are the differences between America's two major political parties? Is the Electoral College really a college?

The newly updated What Is a Presidential Election? answers these questions and many, many more. From stump speeches to campaign slogans, debates to nominating conventions, and finally to Election Night and Inauguration Day, readers will learn all about what it takes to run for--and win--the most powerful job on earth.

Activities throughout prompt readers to think about the issues they care most about and consider what makes a good president, sparking discussion with friends and family. Includes a sheet of presidential bobblehead stickers and a color-your-own Electoral Map for the upcoming 2024 election!

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Weirdo

Tony Weaver, Jr.

A Kirkus Best Book of the Year
A School Library Journal Best Book of the Year
A Publishers Weekly Best Book of the Year
A New York Public Library Best Book of the Year
A Chicago Public Library Best Book of the Year
A People Magazine Best Book of the Year

From rising star Tony Weaver, Jr. comes a middle-grade graphic novel memoir about an awkward preteen who loves all things geeky but struggles with mental health issues and self-doubt, perfect for fans of Jerry Craft's New Kid.

Eleven-year-old Tony Weaver, Jr. loves comic books, anime, and video games, and idolizes the heroic, larger-than-life characters he finds there. But his new classmates all think he’s a weirdo. Bullied by his peers, Tony struggles with the hurt of not being accepted and tries to conform to other people's expectations. After a traumatic event shakes him to his core, he embarks on a journey of self love that will require him to become the hero of his own story. 

Weirdo is a triumphant, witty, and comedic story for any kid who's ever felt awkward, left out, or like they don't belong. An adolescence survival guide that will give every reader the confidence to make it to the other side.

Praise for Weirdo:

"I've been singing the praises of Tony Weaver Jr. for years, and here, I'm proud to say, he's given me one more reason to do so. Weirdo is more than a graphic novel about bullying or misfits. It's a blinding light of a tale about a boy who fights to become himself. About an oddball who finds wonder in his own weirdness. It's a reminder that we all have a place. And people. And some of us have a particular point of view on the world. I'm so happy Tony is using his to bring such palpable joy, love, and imagination to it." —Jason Reynolds, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Look Both Ways

"Tony’s Heartfelt story reminds us Why Embracing Individuality Radically Defies Obstacles." —Jerry Craft, 2020 Newbery and Coretta Scott King Book Award winner for New Kid

"Weirdo empowers readers to celebrate their own identities and offers hope to find the crew that will love you for all of your magnificent quirks!" —Jarrett J. Krosoczka, National Book Award finalist for Hey, Kiddo

"Weirdo is a powerful story filled with empathy about the effects of bullying and how we can attempt to cope with it." —Dan Santat, 2023 National Book Award Winner for A First Time for Everything

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Secret Factopia!

Paige Towler

Follow an ingenious trail of 400 facts about everything from secret recipes and escape artists to hidden treasure and invisibility cloaks.

You'll meet an underwear-stealing cat, find out about sharks that glow, uncover a toilet in disguise, and learn about the biggest ever game of hide-and-seek. And the facts aren't the only secrets in this book, for hidden among the illustrations are ten mice just waiting to be found!

Lavishly illustrated with witty illustrations that combine artwork and photography, and verified by the experts at Encyclopaedia Britannica, Secret FACTopia! sheds light on some of the world's most amazing "hidden" facts, which kids will be desperate to share with their friends and family.

Index included.

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My Encyclopedia of Very Important Dinosaurs

Kritika Gupta

This exciting introduction to dinosaurs is brimming with hundreds of fun facts about the prehistoric world.This book for children aged 5-9 takes you back in time to discover the prehistoric world. Learn facts about fossils, see Brachiosaurus bones up-close, and discover dozens of other incredible dinosaurs.This dinosaur encyclopedia will engage young readers through a balance of striking images and conversational, age-appropriate text, tapping into every child's natural curiosity and answering all their biggest questions about this amazing lost world.This children's dinosaur encyclopedia offers:- An updated issue with fun and fresh dinosaur content and dynamic dino-illustrations.- Feature pages that include a fact file of essential stats about each dinosaur that includes size, diet, and period - all colour coded by period for clarity.- Friendly and accessible text that is blended with bright illustrations to learn about favourite species.Bursting with up-to-date facts and discoveries, this exciting kid's encyclopedia includes everything from an in-depth exploration of the triassic, jurassic, and cretaceous periods and how fossils are made, to detailed profiles of popular dinosaurs such as Tyrannosaurus rex, Triceratops, and Stegosaurus, to more unfamiliar species such as Microraptor, Guanlong, and Spinosaurus.More in the seriesMy Encyclopedia of Very Important Dinosaurs is part of the educational My Very Important Encyclopedia series. Complete the series and nurture your child's curiosity with My Encyclopedia of Very Important Adventures, teach them about different species with My Encyclopedia of Very Important Animals, or learn about everything and anything with My Encyclopedia of Very Important Things.

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Marvel Incredible Records

Melanie Scott

Did you know Quicksilver once sprinted halfway across the world in 92 seconds? Or that Titania can withstand temperatures hotter than lava? Discover the most mind-boggling records and stats about the heroes and villains of Marvel Comics!

With stunning illustrations and fun facts, Marvel Incredible Records is an updated edition of Marvel Absolutely Everything You Need to Know (published 2016) for young Marvel fans. How many suits does Iron Man have? Who's the smartest Super Hero in the universe? And just how old was Squirrel Girl when she discovered she could talk to squirrels? Find out all about Shuri's amazing inventions, Spider-Man's incredible spider-sense, and much more! Packed with astonishing feats and records from heroes, villains, and super-teams, this book will wow young readers.

© 2024 MARVEL

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Mysteries of Trash and Treasure: The Stolen Key

Margaret Peterson Haddix

New York Times bestselling author Margaret Peterson Haddix delivers the thrilling conclusion to her middle grade Mysteries of Trash and Treasure series as Colin and Nevaeh unravel their most personal mystery yet.

Colin has spent all summer solving mysteries with his friend Nevaeh. But they've only ever dealt with other people's mysteries--ones that are safe for Colin to think about. He's still stuck on the mystery surrounding his own father, who his mother refuses to talk about and he can't remember meeting.

Then one morning Colin finds a shoebox on his porch with a note on top: "Your father wanted you to have this." Inside the box is a key. This new clue makes Colin even more determined to find out the truth about his dad and why his parents split up when he was a baby. Colin and Nevaeh begin investigating Colin's father in a quest that takes them from eerie storage units to lock-lined bridges to, strangely, secrets in Nevaeh's family.

But the closer they get to connecting the clues, the more trouble awaits them. A serious accident leaves Nevaeh's family reeling--and Nevaeh racked with guilt. And digging into Colin's father's past may lead Colin and his mom into even more danger. Can Colin and Nevaeh solve the mystery before it's too late?

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Splinter & Ash

Marieke Nijkamp

"A winning addition to boundary-defying heroines like Alanna of Trebond and Sir Callie." --Publishers Weekly (starred review)

"An essential middle grade fantasy where all readers will find heroes to love and to cheer!" --Alex London, author of Battle Dragons and The Princess Protection Program

New York Times bestselling author Marieke Nijkamp's middle grade prose debut is an immersive fantasy for fans of B. B. Alston's Amari and the Night Brothers, Soman Chainani's School for Good and Evil, and Tamora Pierce's Tortall books. For two young misfits, a dangerous quest to save their kingdom will also mean saving each other.

Ash--or Princess Adelisa--is the youngest child of the queen, recently returned to the city of Kestrel's Haven after spending six years on the other side of the country. Ash was hoping for a joyous reunion, but the reality is far from it. Her mother is holding the kingdom together by a thread; her brother has only taunts and jibes for her; and court is full of nobles who openly mock and dismiss Ash, who uses a cane and needs braces to strengthen her joints.

Splinter is the youngest child of one of Haven's most prominent families. She's fierce, determined, and adventurous, and she has her sights set on becoming a knight just like her older brother. Even if everyone says she can't because she's not a boy. So what? She's not a girl, either.

A chance encounter throws Ash and Splinter into each other's orbits and changes the course of the kingdom's history. The princess and her new squire will face bullies, snobs, gossips, and their own disapproving families. But when they uncover a shadowy group of nobles plotting to overthrow the queen, they will show everyone how legends are born. Together.

The first in a trilogy, bestselling author Marieke Nijkamp's medieval fantasy is an action-packed love letter to nonbinary, queer, and disabled kids. Splinter & Ash evokes the classic adventure and atmosphere of fantasies by Lloyd Alexander and Tamora Pierce and the fresh, inclusive lens of writers such as Rick Riordan, Angie Thomas, and Soman Chainani. It invites everyone--no matter who they are or what they look like--to fight for what they believe in.

"Every kid deserves to see themselves as princesses or knights or whatever role they wish to play, and Nijkamp carves out the space for them to do so. Thoughtful, inclusive, and an outright joy, Splinter & Ash shines; a new classic that belongs on the shelves of every fantasy reader." --Nicole Melleby, author of Hurricane Season and coeditor of This Is Our Rainbow

"Splinter & Ash is a rare gem: a shining example of a fantasy novel that will engage readers of any age." --A. J. Sass, award-winning author of Ellen Outside the Lines and Ana on the Edge

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It Came from the Trees

Ally Russell

The legend of Bigfoot gets a bone-chilling update in this scary story about a young girl and her scout troop who are willing to brave the woods to find her missing friend when no one else will. Perfect for fans of Daka Hermon and Claribel A. Ortega!

The wilderness is in Jenna’s blood. Her Pap was the first Black park ranger at Sturbridge Reservation, and she practically knows the Owlet Survival Handbook by heart. But she’s never encountered a creature like the one that took her best friend Reese. Her parents don’t believe her; the police are worthless, following the wrong leads; and the media isn’t connecting the dots between Reese’s disappearance and a string of other attacks. Determined to save her friend, Jenna joins a new local scout troop, and ventures back into the woods.

When the troop stumbles across suspicious signs: huge human-like footprints near the camp, scratch marks on trees, and ominous sounds from the woods, Jenna worries that whatever took Reese is back to take her too. Can she trust her new scout leader? And will her new friend Norrie—who makes her laugh and reminds her so much of Reese—believe her?

After the unthinkable happens, the scouts, armed with their wits and toiletries, band together to fight the monster and survive the night.

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The Doomsday Archives: The Heart-Stealer Mask

Zack Loran Clark

Unlike her friends Emrys and Serena, Hazel is struggling to adjust to magic and to their new roles as the secret protectors of New Rotterdam. She's already worried about her mom, who works endless shifts at the hospital to make ends meet, and now she also has to worry about defending their entire town from supernatural forces. If only Hazel could figure out how to use her relic, the Magnus Crown, which has the power to transform matter, including turning lead into gold...gold that would certainly help ease her fa mily's financial issues. But before Hazel can crack the Crown's secrets, the trio discover a chilling new monster is hunting in New Rotterdam, luring its victims with visions of what they desire most. To Hazel's horror, the monster seems to know exactly what's in her heart and how to reel her in...With eerie black-and-white illustrations by Julian Callos and chilling Wiki excerpts, The Heart-Stealer Mask continues the deliciously creepy Doomsday Archives series by Zack Loran Clark and Nick EliopulosNew Rotterdam is no place for a kid--and that's what Emrys Houtman likes about it. Emrys obsessively documents his town's urban legends and cryptid sightings in a Wiki, along with his neighbors and fellow horror fans Hazel and Serena. It's all in good fun until one day, the trio stu mbles upon the Doomsday Archives, a collection of relics with dazzling powers and dangerous consequences. When a mysterious blood-red hourglass begins appearing around town and children begin to go missing, the trio must band together to stop the horrors plaguing New Rotterdam, or risk losing their home possibly their lives. Because after all this time hunting monsters, the kids have realized the monsters are now hunting them back.

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