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A Bad Case of the Almosts is a super-fun read with a solid STEM foundation.

Abby's problems and frustrations are easy to relate to. Her curious approach to how to deal with them is a lesson to us all - and a lesson that never comes across as preachy.

A great and empowering book about figuring things out for yourself - and sharing what you've learned to help others, it will be a nice fit in classrooms, and a fun introduction to using the scientific method in everyday life.

The illustrations are wonderful - bright and lively with some fun background details for readers who look closely.

Extra love for the decision tree at the back of the book. It's a fun thing for readers to use to try on a variety of possible responses.

A good sports book that captures the hard work of being yourself. A solid book about doing what you love, finding friends, and accepting yourself. A quick read with great illustrations, kids will enjoy this one.

A cute and fun book that helps us all see that being brave doesn't always look like you think it does.

Wanda is a tenacious character who wants to be brave just like her big brother - or so she thinks. Great characters, peer pressure kids can relate to, and a nice twist ending make this a great addition to any classroom or library. The message is powerful without being overbearing, and kids will enjoy figuring out what brave means to them.

I especially love the back matter. Great, actionable advice that any kid can use to help them try new things - and find their own kind of brave.

t took me a bit to get used to the not-quite contemporary but contemporary style of this book, but the character, Erik, pulled me and in and kept me reading. A quirky and fun read about a kid with anxiety and his over the top "No Fear" Viking family that both helps and hinders him on his journey. In the end, I enjoyed the story and even came to appreciate Erik's take charge sister, the one-eared squirrel, and the rest of of the Viking crew. I think this would make a fun read aloud that could spark some interesting research, writing, and art projects.

A great upper middle grade novel about trying to find your place in the ever-changing world of middle school and how "just be nice" isn't always the solution people would like it to be. Laurie Morrison gives Ivy realistic problems and pressures - ranging from shifts in friendships and sibling relationships, questions about a seemingly settled divorce, and worries about her mom's health as a gestational surrogate. Morrison also shows how a solution like "be grateful and kind" stops working if you never allow yourself to feel how you are really feeling. A good book for kids who like a character-focused story.

Super fun tale of Casey and his monsters! Funny and full of action, this
graphic novel will be a hit with young readers who love everything monsters.

Simply lovely! Stella is a wonderful, heartfelt story about a dog with PTSD and the girl who helps her rediscover her purpose and her joy.

Readers will love that the story is told from the dog's point of view, and teachers will love the depth of detail the author provides about working dogs, service dogs, dog training, and facing your fears.

The steady pace and relatable characters make it an engaging and enjoyable read. A must for any library.