After finishing this book weeks ago, I'm still thinking of Miwako Sumida and friends. This story is dark and sometimes feels too real, but you can't look away.
Sinny
Full of very accessible but always interesting and flavorful vegetarian recipes. Lately I've been cooking from this book or the author's blog, Cookie and Kate, multiple times per week. My favorites are the sweet potato black bean enchiladas and chickpea tikka masala, both of which use a lot of pantry staples!
Katie
You ever go into a museum and ask yourself what would stop you from just taking something and walking right out the front door? Maybe, but you sure don't act on it (I hope). The kids in this true story did. Find out what happens when four college students carry out an art heist in this utterly fascinating true crime comedy of errors. And if you haven't seen the movie, do it. If you have, this pairs with it perfectly, offering a fresh new point of view.
Caleb
Jason Reynold's "Stamped Jr" is a great resource for kids and adults who want to talk to kids about the systemic racism rooted in our country's history. Reynolds weaves together historical moments (some that students may have studied in other contexts, others totally new) in a way that connects them to a larger picture and to today. His playful asides make it feel far from textbook reading; perfect for at-home study. Highly recommend the audiobook from Libro.fm - you'll really feel like you're hanging out with Jason Reynolds in your living room!
Leila
Frances Cha's debut is completely transporting. Featuring four women who live in the same building in Seoul, it's a glimpse into four very different lives intertwining as each faces the challenges and expectations of social and economic hierarchy in modern Korean culture. Fascinating and vivid.
Leila
I turn to this book whenever I need to be comforted or inspired, to laugh or cry, to feel understood and be reminded that we are not alone. Every time I pick it up, I find something new in it, and it's always what I need most to hear at the time. In fact, I've already staff picked it! But I'd like for you all to have the chance to have a copy with you right now. Plus.... if you want..... it can double as a quarantine coloring book.
Kate
Much like me, the last thing Norris wanted was to move across the country, leaving his friends (and his hockey team) behind to go to high school in Texas. It's hot, it's sticky, and it might as well be another planet. Guess he better find a way to make the best of it...or escape. This book charmed me, in spite of my resistance to go back to the land where football and church are the same thing.
Caleb
A colorful, silly story about a girl who makes the best of everything. A good story for looking on the bright side of things.
Stacey
With its tender, lyrical text, gorgeous illustrations, and fun die-cut windows on each page, this book is the perfect reminder that the earth keeps turning and spring will come again. Send it as an Earth Day present to someone you love, or pick it up for yourself and let it transport you to prairies, mountains, forests, and oceans.
Kate
Violet Choudbury sees dead people, and in particular the recently murdered queen bee of her cheerleading squad. For one of a handful of brown girls in a small Illinois town, who wants only to blend in, this is not working well. I thoroughly enjoyed this original, fun, and fast-paced story.
Robin
