Synergy: Celebrating National Park

NATIONAL PARKS are lands set aside and protected by a national government for conservation and preservation. These lands contain distinctive natural and cultural resources such as a landforms, plants, and animals of particular value.

To understand a concept, it’s useful to read a cluster of books related to a theme. Explore these recently published books for young people:

NATIONAL MONUMENTS OF THE USA written by Cameron Walker and illustrated by Chris Turnham explores a wide range of iconic locations around the United States. Organized into eight chapters, a two-page spread identifies the monuments. Then, text blocks, infographics, and other visuals highlight key features of each location. ARC courtesy of Wide Eyed Editions, an imprint of 69 Titles.

ZION NATIONAL PARK by Greg Paprocki is a new book in the YOU ARE HERE! series. This picture book focuses on Zion’s unique geological landscape while sharing key facts about the park. In addition, it provides engaging park activities. ARC courtesy of Little Hero, an imprint of Ingram Publisher Services.

COLORS OF THE NATIONAL PARKS illustrated by Jenny Miriam is a board book featuring a color prominently found in ten national parks such as the brown elks of Yellowstone National Park and green cactus of Zion National Park. ARC courtesy of duopress, an imprint of Sourcebooks.

EYEWITNESS NATIONAL PARKS from DK is a highly illustrated guide to 63 US National Parks. This updated book in the Eyewitness series features stunning photographs and the unique features of each of these amazing places. ARC courtesy of DK, an importing of Penguin Random House.

I AM MADE OF MOUNTAINS written by Alexandra S.D. Hinrichs and illustrated by Vivian Mineker highlights the nature wonders of sixteen National Parks of the United States. Each two-page spread provides a stunning illustration reflecting a majestic location along with lyrical text and information about the particular park.

ARC courtesy of Charlesbridge.

THE STORY OF CONSERVATION written by Catherine Barr and Steve Williams and illustrated by Amy Husband shares the science and history of conservation. Part of the STORY OF… series, readers learn about how the Earth’s natural resources can be cared and protected for future generations. ARC courtesy of Frances Lincoln Children’s Book, an imprint of Quarto Group.

Synergy: Exploring Animal Behavior

ANIMAL BEHAVIOR is the study of how animals interact in their environment from movement and social activity to mating behavior.

To understand a concept, it’s useful to read a cluster of books related to a theme. Explore these recently published books for young people:

LEARNING TO BE WILD: HOW ANIMALS ACHIEVE PEACE, CREATE BEAUTY, AND RAISE FAMILIES by Carl Safina is a young adult adaptation of the adult work of nonfiction. Community, culture, and belonging aren’t just human concepts, they extend to the animal world. This engaging read explores the connections among chimpanzees, macaws, whales, and humans. ARC courtesy Roaring Brook Press, an imprint of Macmillan. 

BUTT OR FACE? written by Kari Lavelle presents a photograph and asks readers to guess the animal. Additional information about the creature’s physical characteristics and behaviors is presented in an engaging way. This unusual book will be popular with young readers who enjoy humor and animals. ARC courtesy of Sourcebooks Explore, an imprint of Sourcebooks.

FOLLOW THE FLYWAY: THE MARVEL OF BIRD MIGRATION written by Sarah Nelson and illustrated by Maya Hanisch explores a dozen bird species that migrate along the North American Flyways. The rhyming text make this beautifully illustrated picture book an engaging read-aloud. The book concludes with fascinating flyway facts. ARC courtesy of Barefoot Books. 

FIND OUT ABOUT ANIMAL CAMOUFLAGE written by Martin Jenkins and illustrated by Jane McGuinness is a picture book exploring how animals disguise themselves. Designed for young children, learners explore clever ways creatures use camouflage to survive. Each two-page spread includes a key statement along with supplemental text. ARC courtesy of Candlewick Press. 

THINK LIKE A GOAT: THE WILDLY SMART WAYS ANIMALS COMMUNICATE, COOPERATE, AND INNOVATE written by Lisa Dearest Betik and illustrated by Alexander Mostov examines animal behavior around the world. The book begins by sharing different types of intelligence, then five chapters examine how animals apply their intelligence. The combination of interesting text blocks, infographics, and other engaging information presentation styles will appeal to young readers. ARC courtesy Kids Can Press, an imprint of Hachette Book Group.

Synergy: Celebrating Insects

INSECTS are small invertebrates. These arthropods usually have six legs and one or two pairs of wings. They also have a well-defined head, thorax, and abdomen. Although they are sometimes considered pests, they serve essential roles in nature.

To understand a concept, it’s useful to read a cluster of books related to a theme. Explore these recently published books for young people:

WHAT’S INSIDE A CATERPILLAR COCOON? written by Rachel Ignotofsky answers commonly asked questions about moths and butterflies. This beautifully illustrated picture book brings the insect world alive for young readers. ARC courtesy of Crown Books for Young Readers, an imprint of Penguin Random House.

PLEASE DON’T BITE ME!: INSECTS THAT BUZZ, BITE, AND STING written by Jazzy Pakpour and illustrated by Owen Davey examines pesky insects including lice, mosquitoes, wasps, cockroaches, bedbugs, and fleas and the reasons they’re often misunderstood. Children will enjoy the simple, attractive illustrations and interesting scientific facts. ARC courtesy of Flying Eye Books, an imprint of Penguin Random House.

CATERPILLARS: WHAT WILL I BE WHEN I GET TO BE ME? written by Kevin McCloskey is part of the Giggle and Learn series. Combining scientific information with a fun approach, learners explore the life cycle of moths and butterflies along with their important role as pollinators. Of particular note is the picture book’s use of speech bubbles and other sequential art techniques in storytelling. ARC courtesy of TOON Books, an imprint of Astra Publishing House.

IT IS TIME: THE LIFE OF A CATERPILLAR by Lizzy Rockwell is a science book for beginning readers. Exploring the life cycle of a butterfly, the book uses short sentences and key terms to introduce the science concepts through an engaging story. ARC courtesy of Holiday House.

EYEWITNESS INSECT from DK is a highly-illustrated reference book exploring a wide range of insects. This newly updated DK Eyewitness Book provides information about anatomy, behavior, habitats, and compares related creatures. ARC courtesy of DK.

Synergy: Exploring Botany

BOTANY is the study of plant science. This branch of biology includes not only plants, but also fungi and algae.

To understand a concept, it’s useful to read a cluster of books related to a theme. Explore these recently published books for young people:

KNOWLEDGE ENCYCLOPEDIA: PLANTS AND FUNGI from DK is a highly illustrated reference book for children interested in plant science. From flowers and trees to carnivorous plants, readers will be spellbound by the wealth of fascinating facts, useful infographics, diagrams, and photographs. ARC courtesy of DK.

LANGUAGE OF PLANTS written by Helena Harastova and illustrated Darya Beklemesheva explores the science of plants. Each chapter examines a different aspect of plant communication. Whether exploring the Wood Wide Web or clever pollination, readers will enjoy the variety of presentation formats including text, detailed diagrams, and more. ARC courtesy of Albatros Media, an imprint of Ingram Publisher Services.

STAND AS TALL AS TREES written by Patricia Gualinga and Laura Resau and illustrated by Vanessa Jaramillo shares how activists and community members in the Amazon worked together to protect their native lands. This inspirational, true story shares the importance of environmental conservation and plant preservation. This title is available in both English and Spanish. ARC courtesy of Charlesbridge Publishing.

ROOTING FOR PLANTS: THE UNSTOPPABLE CHARLES S. PARKER, BLACK BOTANIST AND COLLECTOR written by Janice N. Harrington and illustrated by Theodore Taylor III tells the story of a botanist and mycologist who discovered new species of plants and fungi and the source of fruit tree diseases. As a botanist and educator, he inspired a generation of new Black scientists. ARC courtesy of Calkins Creek, an imprint of Astra Publishing House.

HOW NOT TO KILL YOUR PLANT written by Magda Gargulakova and Lena Chytilova and illustrated by Hannah Abba assists young readers in learning the process of acquiring and caring for houseplants. Of particular note is the section exploring individual plants children are likely to encounter. Chapters feature the basics of care, an encyclopedia of houseplants, and cultivation practice. Visuals, step-by-step instructions, and lots of useful advice make this a practical guide for young plant lovers. ARC courtesy of Albatros Media.

Timely Take-aways for Life Long Learners: Literature and Language

Whether exploring favorite authors, lesser-known works, or book history topics, several new titles provide breadth and depth to the study of literature, literary collections, speeches, and history. 

Index, A History of the
Dennis Duncan, 2022, W.W. Norton & Company Themes: Book History, Social History, Books

Book history fans will be enthralled by this fascinating history of the index. Duncan traces the little-known highlights of its design, use, and changes over time.

Take-aways: Students will related to how the index has evolved from print media into digital searches.

Everyday Emerson: A Year of Wisdom
Ralph Waldo Emerson, 2022, St. Martin’s Essentials, Macmillan Themes: Literary Collections

These daily quotes are intended to connect with everyday life and share the universal appeal of his writings.

Take-aways: English teachers will find these quotes to be excellent discussion starters. Ask students to consider whether they agree with the quote and how it applies to life in today’s world.

Walt Whitman’s New Orleans: Sidewalk Sketches and Newspaper Rambles
Stefan Scholberlein (Editor), 2022, LSU Press Themes: Literary Collections

After an introduction and excerpts from A Traveller’s Note Book, readers explore 50 short prose “sketches” and insightful information and resources about Whitman and his works.

Take-aways: Use this fascinating book to help students better understand Whitman and his use of sketches to share his insights into daily life. Ask students to create their own sketches based on their observations.

Undelivered: The Never-Heard Speeches that Would have Rewritten History
Jeff Nussbaum, 2023, Flatiron Books, an imprint of Macmillan Themes: Literary Collections, Speeches

Sharing notable speeches that were never delivered, Nussbaum explores the historical contexts along with the content of dozens of speeches by well-known individuals. From change and crisis to apology and loss, each of the five parts examples a different theme that impacted the speech’s outcome.

Take-aways: Students are familiar with the famous speeches, but will find these less-known, never-heard speeches to be engaging and thought-provoking.

All the Knowledge in the World: The Extraordinary History of the Encyclopedia
Simon Garfield, 2023, William Morrow, HarperCollins Themes: Book History, Language Arts

Garfield’s conversational style turns what could be a dry history of the encyclopedia into an engaging exploration of this fascinating reference source. Through short, interesting chapters, readers learn about the authors and publishers along with the content and formats of the beloved encyclopedia.

Take-aways: Share examples from Garfield’s book, then ask students to adopt their favorite reference book category. From field guides to atlases, involve students in writing their own reference history.

Storyland: A New Mythology of Britain
Amy Jeffs, 2023, Andrew McMeel Publishing Themes: History, Social Science, Literature, Mythology

While tracing the history and interconnected mythology, Jeffs retells both well-known and lesser known tales. Along the way, readers explore key landscapes and legends. The linocuts are of particular note.

Take-aways: Written for a modern audience, young adults will enjoy the retellings. Involve teams of students in examining the early, prehistory, antiquity, or the Middle Ages and mythological themes.

The Wonderful World of James Herriot: A Charming Collection of Classic Stories
James Herriot, 2023, St. Martin’s Press, an imprint of Macmillan Themes: Essays & Narratives

This illustrated version of Herriot’s popular narratives bring these classic stories alive for a new audience.

Take-aways: Inspire teen writers to use observation and humor in their own nonfiction narratives.

The Hobbit Encyclopedia
Damien Bondi & Vivien Stocker, 2023, Frances Lincoln, Quarto Group Themes: Literary Criticism

This illustrated guide to Tolkien’s universe features hundreds of entries related to characters, places, and plot elements.

Take-aways: Suggest this reference companion for fans of The Hobbit. Ask students to create their own “encyclopedia”.

Whether helping educators keep up-to-date in their subject-areas, promoting student reading in the content-areas, or simply encouraging nonfiction leisure reading, teacher librarians need to be aware of the best new titles across the curriculum and how to activate life-long learning. - Annette Lamb

Synergy: Celebrating Mathematics

MATHEMATICS is the science of numbers and their use. From counting, arranging, and measuring objects to describing shapes, math is connected with everything we do. Branches of mathematics include arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and calculus.

To understand a concept, it’s useful to read a cluster of books related to a theme. Explore these recently published books for young people:

STORYTELLING MATH is a book series from Charlesbridge featuring children of color applying math to the world around them. Readers are encouraged to become mathematical thinkers. Let’s explore several new books in the series.

WHO JUMPS MORE?, OUR FAVORITE APPLES, WHERE ARE THE EGGS?, and A BEAUTIFUL HOUSE FOR BIRDS written and illustrated by Grace Lin are four recently published books in the Storytelling Math series. Whether searching for eggs or building a bird house, each story celebrates math in the daily lives of children.

LIA & LUIS books are written by Ana Crespo and Giovana Medeiros. In PUZZLED!, the twins who use geometry and sorting skills to decipher a puzzle sent by their grandmother. In WHO HAS MORE?, an argument about favorite snacks has the twins applying measurement, counting, and estimation skills. Like some other books in the STORYTELLING MATH series, this title is available in Spanish, English, and bilingual editions.

TOO-SMALL TYSON written by JaNay Brown and illustrated by Anastasia Magloire Williams tells the story of a missing pet gerbil. Along the way, children learn about proportional thinking.

To learn more about the series, visit the website for author interviews and lots of extras. Go to https://www.charlesbridge.com/pages/storytellingmath.

ARCs courtesy of Charlesbridge, an imprint of Penguin Random House.

Synergy: Celebrating Poetry

POETRY is a literary form that elicits an emotional response through the use of language. This condensed art form can be written, spoken, or performed. Often spoken aloud, the words and phrases are arranged for meaning, sound, and rhythm.

To understand a concept, it’s useful to read a cluster of books related to a theme. Explore these recently published books for young people:

POETRY PROMPTS written by Joseph Coelho and illustrated Georgie Birkett jumpstarts the writing process for children. Prompts feature a variety of techniques and use examples to help young writers enjoy learning about poetry. Poetry Power-Ups provide tips and encouragement. ARC courtesy of Wide Eyed Editions, an imprint of Quarto Group.

COURAGE OUT LOUD: 25 POEMS OF POWER written by Joseph Coelho and illustrated by Daniel Gray-Barnett shares poems that encourage confidence-building in children. It’s the third book in the Poetry to Perform series. These original poems can be used as personal mantras as well as inspiration for children’s own poetry writing. ARC courtesy of Wide Eyed Editions, an imprint of Quarto Group.

CHAMPION CHOMPERS, SUPER STINKERS AND OTHER POEMS BY EXTRAORDINARY ANIMALS written by Linda Ashman and illustrated by Aparna Varma features poems for children about a wide range of animals. This interactive picture book features poems with hints about an animal that are followed up with facts and special characteristics. The book concludes with information about protecting endangered animals, measurements, and mask poems. A glossary is also included. Involve children in incorporating animal facts into their own nature poetry. ARC courtesy of Kids Can Press, an imprint of Hachette Book Group.

WELCOME TO THE WONDER HOUSE is written by Rebecca Kai Dotlich and Georgia Heard, then illustrated by Deborah Freedman. The poetry collection for children encourages creativity and inquiry across the curriculum. ARC courtesy of Wordsong, an imprint of Astra Publishing House.

Synergy: Exploring Life Science

LIFE SCIENCE studies living organisms and processes. It includes the areas of biology, botany, zoology, microbiology, physiology, biochemistry and related areas.

To understand a concept, it’s useful to read a cluster of books related to a theme. Explore these recently published books for young people:

VERSATILE VERTEBRATES by Tom Velcovsky and Marie Kotasova and illustrated by Babora Idesova is an informational picture book examining nature’s largest animal groups. From amphibians and reptiles to mammals and birds, readers learn about the characteristics of the vertebrate family. ARC courtesy of Albatros Media, an imprint of Ingram Publisher Services.

THEY ARE HERE! HOW INVASIVE SPECIES ARE SPOILING OUR ECOSYSTEM by Roland Smith is an informational book examining the negative impact of invasive species. From rats and birds to snakes and insects, each chapter explores a different type of invasive. Humorous anecdotes, scientific information, and useful tips contribute to the appeal of this fascinating middle grade book. ARC courtesy of Godwin Book, an imprint of Macmillan.

DISCOVERING LIFE’S STORY: BIOLOGY’S BEGINNINGS by Joy Hakim is the first book in a four-part series exploring the history of life science. Designed for young adults, this engaging work of nonfiction examines key people, places, and scientific discoveries from around the globe. Primary source materials and other visual elements contribute to the appeal. Back matter extends the experience. ARC courtesy of MITeen Press, an imprint of Candlewick Press.

NOT A MONSTER by Claudia Guadalupe Martinez and illustrated by Laura Gonzalez is a nonfiction picture book exploring the life cycle of the axolotl. Of particular note is the book’s use of Spanish vocabulary woven throughout the narrative. This fascinating amphibian is well-known to children because of its appearance in Aztec mythology and Minecraft. ARC courtesy of Charlesbridge.

Synergy: Exploring Health

HEALTH describes a person’s physical, mental, and social well-being. A person in good health is free from disease or injury.

To understand a concept, it’s useful to read a cluster of books related to a theme. Explore these recently published books for young people:

UNSEEN JUNGLE: THE MICROBES THAT SECRETLY CONTROL OUR WORLD written by Eleanor Spicer Rice and illustrated by Rob Wilson explores the science of microbes. Part of the Your Hidden Life series, this fact-filled, humorous work of nonfiction examines the fascinating microscopic world of these tiny organisms and impact your health and the life of other creatures. Chapters include microbes in the house, yard, food, and you! ARC courtesy of MIT Kids Press, an imprint of Candlewick Press.

THE OTHER PANDEMIC: AN AIDS MEMOIR by Lynn Curlee traced the AIDS pandemic from the 1970s through the 1990s telling the story of the author’s partner alongside the larger crisis. The book begins with examples of people with AIDS and a comparison with the COVID-19 years. It concludes with tributes and additional information about AIDS. ARC courtesy of Charlesbridge Teen, an imprint of Charlesbridge.

WHAT’S A GERM, JOSEPH LISTER?: THE MEDICAL MYSTERY THAT FOREVER CHANGED THE WAY WE HEAL written by Lori Alexander and illustrated by Daniel Duncan explores the history of surgery and how Lister proved that unsanitary conditions contribute to infections. Along the way, readers learn about germs and how scientific discoveries are made. This engaging, highly illustrated biography includes the perfect balance of humor, gore, and fascinating facts. ARC courtesy of Clarion Books, an imprint of HarperCollins.

Synergy: Exploring Farms

FARMS are places that grow crops and nurture livestock. Farmers sell their agricultural products to companies or at markets directly to individuals. Sustainable farming practices are intended protect the environment.

To understand a concept, it’s useful to read a cluster of books related to a theme. Explore these recently published books for young people:

THE WORLD THAT FEEDS US written by Nancy Castaldo and illustrated by Ginnie Hsu explores approaches to green, sustainable farming practices from around the global. Each of the four chapters explores farming methods and settings in a different season. ARC courtesy of words & pictures, an imprint of Quarto Group.

THANK A FARMER written by Maria Gianferrari and illustrated by Monica Mikai uses colorful illustrations of farmers in action to share the wide range of produce created at farms. Readers are invited to think about the foods they eat, then “thank a farmer.” The book concludes with information about the different farm products featured in this attractive picture book. ARC courtesy of Norton Young Readers, an imprint W.W. Norton.

FUTURE LAB: TOMORROW’S FARM by Rodrigo Cordeiro explores the many ways farms will evolve with the introduction of new technologies and other innovations. From drones and solar panels to robots, readers learn about cutting-edge tools and techniques used by farmers. Designed for young children, each two-page spread explores a farm scene and features key words. ARC courtesy of duo press, an imprint of Sourcebooks.

Timely Takeaways: Animal-Human Relationships

Animal-Human Relationships

From turtles and koalas to animal babies, explore several new books that examine the lives of animals and their relationships with humans around the world.

Of Times and Turtles: Mending the World, Shell by Shattered Shell
Sy Montgomery, 2023, Mariner Books, an imprint of HarperCollins
Themes: Nature, Animals, Reptiles

Organized into five parts, Montgomery immerses readers in the world of turtles. Combining science with storytelling, readers follow the author’s experiences helping recovering turtles.

Take-aways: Draw on the book’s engaging examples to share the need for turtle protection.

Nursery Earth: The Wondrous Lives of Baby Animals and the Extraordinary Ways They Shape our World
Danna Staaf, 2023, The Experiment, an imprint of Hachette Book Group
Themes: Nature, Animals, Baby Animals

From egg to adulthood, explore the cycles of life in the animal world. Tracing both the history and science of animal development, Staaf shares fascinating facts and insights into the lesser known aspects of animal life.

Take-aways: Explore often overlooked phases of animal development.

Koala: A Natural History and an Uncertain Future
Danielle Clode, 2023, W.W. Norton & Company
Themes: Nature, Animals, Mammals

Clode investigates the history, physiology and personalities of koalas. Along the way, she reflects on the need to protect these unique Australian marsupials.

Take-aways: Bring life science alive with information about these adorable animals.

Beastly: The 40,000-Year Story of Animals and Us
Keggie Carew, 2023, Abrams Press
Themes: Nature, Animals, Wildlife

Divided into ten parts, readers explore the relationship between humans and animals through history. Focusing on key encounters, Carew examines a wide range of creatures and the importance of biodiversity.

Take-aways: Weave the author’s anecdotes into a discussion of animal-human interactions through time.

The Creative Lives of Animals
Carol Gigliotti, 2022, NYU Press
Themes: Nature, Animals, Environmental Protection

From building shelters to seducing potential mates, explore the many ways animals apply creativity in their everyday lives.

Take-aways: Use the examples in this book to show young people the need to view animals as individuals who make important contributions in the natural world.

Sentient: How Animals Illuminate the Wonder of Our Human Senses
Jackie Higgins, 2022, Atria Books, an imprint of Simon & Schuster
Themes: Nature, Animals

Told through the sensory capabilities of thirteen animals, readers learn about human perception and celebrate the connections among creatures of the world.

Take-aways: Teach senses within the context of human and animal characteristics.

Synergy: Celebrating Food

FOOD is any nutritious matter that plants, animals, or people eat, drink, or absorb to sustain life. Food contains essential fat, protein, carbohydrates, or other nutrients. All living things need energy to grow, heal, and work.

To understand a concept, it’s useful to read a cluster of books related to a theme. Explore these recently published books for young people:

PIZZA, PICKLES, AND APPLE PIE: THE STORIES BEHIND THE FOODS WE LOVE by David Rickert explores the history of food. In addition to historical information, this engaging work of graphic nonfiction incorporates facts about science and nutrition along with fun, hands-on activities. ARC courtesy of Kane Press, an imprint of Astra Publishing House, Inc.

DAVID ATHERTON’S BAKING BOOK FOR KIDS: DELICIOUS RECIPES FOR BUDDING BAKERS written by David Atherton and illustrated by Harry Woodgate shares dozens of recipes for tasty treats including breads, cakes, cookies and sweet treats, pastries, and showstoppers. Along with step-by-step instructions, recipes provide ingredients and sometimes tips. ARC courtesy of Candlewick Press.

LOOK AND COOK SNACKS: A FIRST BOOK OF RECIPES IN PICTURES by Valorie Fisher features a couple dozen easy-to-make recipes for children. After an introduction to cooking, this highly visual cookbook uses photographs and diagrams to present ingredients and procedures. ARC courtesy of Astra Young Readers, an imprint of Astra Publishing House, Inc.

Synergy: Celebrating Graphic Nonfiction

GRAPHIC NONFICTION are works of nonfiction expressed in a graphic-novel style. Sharing information and true stories, these books use sequential art and other highly visual approaches to communicate factual content.

To understand a concept, it’s useful to read a cluster of books related to a theme. Explore these recently published books for young people:

DRAWN TO CHANGE THE WORLD written by Emma Reynolds and illustrated by Emma Reynolds and Ann Maulana is a middle grade graphic biography exploring the experiences of a diverse group of sixteen youth climate activists. The book begins with an overview of climate change. Then, sixteen different artists use a graphic novel style to exploring the experiences of a diverse group of sixteen youth climate activists. Each story includes updated information about each activist. The book concludes with ideas for making a difference along with additional factual information about climate change. ARC courtesy of HarperAlley, an imprint of HarperCollins.

RUN AND HIDE: HOW JEWISH YOUTH ESCAPED THE HOLOCAUST by Don Brown is a compelling, graphic history exploring the harrowing stories of children surviving the horrors of World War II. Told through Brown’s deeply moving visuals, these stories bring the plight of these children to life. ARC courtesy of Clarion Book, an imprint of HarperCollins.

I ESCAPED A CHINESE INTERNMENT CAMP written by Anthony Del Col and illustrated by Fahmida Azim received the 2022 Pulitzer Prize for illustrated reporting. Although written for an adult audience, young adults will find this work of graphic journalism thought-provoking. Based on interviews and testimony, readers explore the life of a woman arrested for simply being a Muslim. Enduring horrific atrocities, she ultimately escaped to America. ARC courtesy of Lev Gleason, an imprint of Diamond Books.

Synergy: Exploring World War II

WORLD WAR II was a global conflict between two military alliances: the Allies and the Axis. From 1939-1945, many of the world’s countries fought on land, sea, and air killing an estimated 70-80 million people. Civilian populations were particularly hard hit. Many people were held in prison camps around the world.

To understand a concept, it’s useful to read a cluster of books related to a theme. Explore these recently published books for young people:

SEEN AND UNSEEN: WHAT DOROTHEA LANGE, TOYO MIYATAKE, AND ANSEL ADAM’S PHOTOGRAPHS REVEAL ABOUT THE JAPANESE AMERICAN INCARCERATION by Elizabeth Partridge and illustrated by Lauren Tamaki is an award-winning work of nonfiction sharing the power of photography. Told through a mixture of original drawings and historical photos, readers explore the heartbreaking stories of Japanese Americans living in incarceration camps during World War II. The visually rich book concludes with eighteen pages of additional information and resources. ARC country of Chronicle Books.

RACE AGAINST DEATH: THE GREATEST POW RESCUE OF WORLD WAR II by Deborah Hopkinson is a middle grade nonfiction narrative telling the story of an American POW rescue mission. Part of the “True Stories in Focus” collection, this fast-paced story follows US Army Rangers and Filipino guerrillas who conduct the “Great Raid” to rescue American and Filipino prisoners. ARC courtesy of Scholastic Focus, an imprint of Scholastic.

IMPOSSIBLE ESCAPE: A TRUE STORY OF SURVIVAL AND HEROISM IN NAZI EUROPE by Steve Sheinkin shares the parallel stories of two Jewish friends trying to survive the Holocaust. While Rudi is attempting to escape from Auschwitz, Gerta is in hiding and risks capture in Hungary. This engaging nonfiction narrative brings two difference Holocaust experiences to life for teens readers. ARC courtesy of Roaring Brook Press, an imprint of Macmillan.

WE ALSO SERVED by Erin McGill shares true stories of brave animals in the military along with other heroic tales. Designed for children, the brightly colored illustrations and short blocks of engaging text highlight the efforts of dogs and other animals who served on the front lines of World War II along with other eras. Each story concludes with a key word related to their service. ARC courtesy of Sourcebooks Explore, an imprint of Sourcebooks.

Synergy: Celebrating Biographies

BIOGRAPHIES tell the true story of a person’s life. These stories may celebrate people who lived long ago, or have recently become known to the world. While biographies may explore the lives of famous people, they may also examine lesser-known individuals with unique stories.

To understand a concept, it’s useful to read a cluster of books related to a theme. Explore these recently published books for young people:

HOW DO YOU SPELL UNFAIR? MACNOLIA COX AND THE NATIONAL SPELLING BEE written by Carole Boston Weatherford and illustrated by Frank Morrison tells the moving true story of a child who endured prejudice and discrimination to participate in the national spelling bee. Weaving in the use of thought-provoking “spelling words”, young readers will be riveted by the child’s real-world experience and challenge. ARC courtesy of Candlewick, and imprint of Penguin Random House.

THE LOBSTER LADY written by Alexandra S.D. Hinrichs and illustrated by Jamie Hogan is picture book biography chronicling the daily life of a 102 year old lobster harvester. Along the way, the Lobster Lady shares memories of her life in Maine. ARC courtesy of Charlesbridge.

CHRISTO AND JEANNE-CLAUDE WRAP THE WORLD: THE STORY OF TWO GROUNDBREAKING ENVIRONMENTAL ARTISTS written by G. Neri and illustrated by Elizabeth Haidle is a picture book telling the story of two innovative artistic collaborators who created innovative public art installations. Back matter includes additional information about the duo, an author’s note, resources, and interesting facts. ARC courtesy of Candlewick, and imprint of Penguin Random House.

THE VAN BUREN SISTERS VS. THE PANTS POLICE written by J.F. Fox with illustrated by Anna Kwan shares the inspiring true story of sisters who challenged traditional gender roles and traditions. In 1916, the Van Buren sisters traveled across America on motorbikes wearing leather pants and coats. A century later their descendants celebrated this accomplishment by re-creating their ride. This engaging picture book concludes with background information, a glossary, and sources. ARC courtesy of Kids Can Press, an imprint of Hachette Book Group.