Two brothers go on a road trip. Plenty of misadventures. The brothers are both autistic, but the author never uses that term. One of my new favorite teen adventure stories!
Hazel
I read this in its original iteration, Clan Apis, in probably 2006 when I was 10 and Very Scared Of Bees. I am not exaggerating when I say it changed my relationship to bees entirely - I went from fear and mistrust to awe, appreciation, and curiosity. Jay Hosler's approach to what is essentially an explanation of What Bees Are is funny, interesting, and moving, and his artwork is top-tier.
Piera
Both a love letter to the queer community and a vivid snapshot of what it was like to be gay in New York during the nineties, this book is a vital read for those looking to better understand modern gay history and appreciate our roots, for both teens and adults. A perfect read for Pride month, it pulled on my heartstrings and I think it will for you too.
April
A ghostly fantasy set in verse is unique enough, but Romero has really crafted a darkly beautiful story. Music, myth, self-discovery, horror, and joy all flowing together effortlessly. Steeped in personal experience and spiritual identity, it's a real gem. Sure to leave it's mark - especially for lovers of Jewish history and mythology.
Stacey
Perfect for fans of The Night Circus and Leigh Bardugo's Grishaverse, A Far Wilder Magic tells the story of Margaret Welty, the competent recluse who keeps things just barely under control while her famous mother is away, and Weston Winters, a poor alchemist looking for a teacher, as they team up to win an unwinnable hunt that is both of their last chance. Romantic and sharp and transportive, you won't want to miss out on this fantastic novel.
Katherine
Escargot is the sweetest, fiercest, fastest, most beautiful French snail you'll ever meet. A charming interactive story and an opportunity to read in your best French accent - if the snail wasn't already your favorite animal, it soon will be.
Katie
Gideon's noir-inspired detective career ended ignominiously in middle school, but now his investigative skills -- and the lure of the editor-in-chief -- have found him a new home on the high school newspaper.
Sarah
Kelly Yang's Private Label is a brilliant contemplation of what becomes of dreams once disaster strikes. Following two Chinese American teenagers who seem to be from entirely different universes--assured fashion designer Serene and new kid on the block Lian--Yang weaves a gripping YA tale that ultimately discusses how worlds can fall apart and slowly be put back together again with the help of unlikely friendships (and maybe something more).
Cindy
Inspired by the Unicorn Tapestries at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, this is a phenomenally illustrated AND educational book about art history, magic, and all of the qualities that makes a good fairytale. The back matter is amazingly detailed and a fun read for future artists or art historians!
Engel
It's easy to forget sometimes that there was a real person behind a name. Thankfully, there are picture books like this one to tell the stories of amazing people who struggled and persevered like Lena Bryant. An absolute beauty of a book that is a perfect fit for the subject matter, with such a great message for those of us who always feel like we're sewing without a pattern.
Stacey
