Janssen Bradshaw | Brightly

The Ultimate Summer Reading List for Kids Ages 9 – 12

Thu, 15 May 2025 09:00:07 +0000

I can’t believe summer is almost upon us! Slow summer mornings with tons of time stretched ahead of us mean my middle grade readers will devour book after book. This summer reading list for 5th, 6th, and 7th graders will help fill that need to read.

These books for tweens feature fantasy, mystery, hardships, history, adventure, and lots of fun! This list has something for every kind of reader.

no no 9780593564226 A Copycat Conundrum (The Misfits) by Lisa Yee, illustrated by Dan Santat

My daughter loved the first book in this series! The Misfits may be an awkward group of kids fighting crime, but they possess the right qualities to dominate every mission. That is until priceless pieces of art go missing, bizarre earthquakes shake up San Francisco, and the nicest kid in school starts receiving terrorizing notes — all at the same time. Is this a coincidence, or are these circumstances connected?

9780593813171 The Dragon’s Apprentice by James Riley

Like most fantasy books, this middle grade novel has adventure and magic on every page, but it is also hilarious! Twelve-year-old Ciara lives in a tiny village ruled by an Emperor who promises that bad things will befall anyone who learns magic. Ciara tempts fate and accidentally summons an ancient, grouchy dragon who might be able to help her save her mother!

9780593959305 The Green Kingdom by Cornelia Funke and Tammi Hartung, illustrated by Melissa Castrillon

Brooklyn is NOT where 12-year-old Caspia wants to spend the summer. Big cities are not her thing, but her attitude changes when she finds a bundle of letters written by a blind girl long ago, all containing a riddle. These riddles lead her on an adventure to places and people she would have never discovered otherwise.

9780593112113 Max in the Land of Lies by Adam Gidwitz

In this sequel to the historical fiction novel Max in the House of Spies, Max has successfully become a British spy. But when he returns to Germany, he finds his parents missing, and the Nazis keep him under constant surveillance. He risks everything to find his parents, but before long, the lies and truths start to blur together.

9780451479754 A Hero’s Guide to Summer Vacation by Pablo Cartaya

When a quiet kid and his grumpy yet famous grandpa hit the road in a vintage convertible, sparks fly and surprises unfold. From coast to coast, they battle old grudges, face unexpected challenges, and discover that real-life adventures can be the most epic of all!

9780593226520 Ready or Not! #1 by Megan E. Bryant

Too much is changing in nine-year-old Abby’s world. Her best friend moved away, her mom started working full time, she has to do the dreaded after-school running program, and don’t get her started on the changes happening in her body without her permission. Being stuck between being a little kid and a full-blown teenager is hard.

9780593644164 Survive This Safari by Natalie D. Richards

My kids love mind puzzles, and this middle grade novel is chock full of them. Lucy’s mind is blown when she is selected to participate in the Wildlands Safari Escape Challenge. She and her team race against the Wild Ambassadors to solve mind-bending puzzles and unlock new areas in the safari park. Naturally, they run into some crazy obstacles along the way. You don’t want to miss this one!

9780593645901 Bumps in the Night by Amalie Howard

Darika is mad and doesn’t think she deserves to be shipped off to her grandmother in the Caribbean for the summer. She’s also angry at her mom, who left and never came back. The second she steps foot on the island, things feel off. But after a group of misfit kids offers to help her find her mother, she gets pulled into an adventure filled with monsters, mazes, and magic.

9780735230613 Creaky Acres: A Graphic Novel by Calista Brill and Nilah Magruder, illustrated by Nilah Magruder

Sign my kids up for all the graphic novels! Nora loves her suburban hometown and close group of friends. But when her mom accepts a new job in a poor, rural area, Nora finds herself sad and lonely in a new place. Can she get used to being the new kid at school and practicing her horseback riding hobby at Creaky Acres?

9780593462393 The Human Kaboom by Adam Rubin

Do you have a child who loves all things wacky and weird? If so, check out this collection of six short stories! Even though every short story has the same name (quirky, right?), they each have a different illustrator, scenarios, and endings. These unique stories will leave your tween wanting more, so check out the author’s companion book, The Ice Cream Machine!

9780593690529 Would You Rather? Summer Edition by Lindsey Daly

School is out, everyone is relaxed, and the fun is just starting! Get some funny discussions going with this Would You Rather? book on a family road trip, sitting around the campfire, or hanging out at the beach. Your entire family will laugh at the goofy responses you come up with. It’s a surefire way to keep everyone entertained!

9780593651643 Speak Up, Santiago! by Julio Anta, illustrated by Gabi Mendez

Santi is thrilled to spend the summer in Hillside Valley, hang out with local kids, spend time with his Grandma, and eat her delicious food. There is one hang-up, though — the majority of kids speak Spanish. Even though Santi is Columbian, his Spanish is shaky. Can he keep up with everyone and absorb his Columbian heritage? This graphic novel is filled with lots of culture and friendship!

9780593696385 Encounter at Owl Rock by Rucker Moses

Oakley and Cypress may be identical twins, but that’s where the likenesses end. Cypress is into directing films and is excited to start his new movie project. Oakley loves acting in Cypress films and using his imagination. When the twins have a disagreement, Oakley runs into Owl Rock, a granite formation, and vanishes. Cypress and his friend Jaz must outmaneuver a villainous company, find Oakley, and uncover Owl Rock’s deepest secrets.

9780593481417 Sea Swept by Leah Cypess

The final installment of the Sisters Ever After series is here! Sisters Daria and Meria are both happy where they are. Daria lives in the sea as a mermaid, but Meria traded her fins for legs to be with the love of her life. Things drastically change when Daria receives a message about her sister’s disappearance up on land. Will she leave the beloved sea and venture to the land above to save her sister?

9780593662304 Quantum Interstellar Sports League #1 by J. Scott Savage, illustrated by Brandon Dorman

If you have a child who loves football, space, and graphic novels, this book is for them! Wyatt doesn’t love football, regardless of his legendary quarterback dad. Somehow, he becomes the quarterback in an intergalactic tournament against some scary aliens! This novel is full of fun, humor, and friendship.

Looking for summer reading ideas for younger or older kids? Check out our 2024 lists for Kids Ages 3 – 5, Ages 6 – 8, and Teens.

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Best Touch-and-Feel Books for Your Baby’s Bookshelf

Fri, 21 Mar 2025 09:00:04 +0000

There’s nothing quite as wonderful as a book for babies, and when that book has not only images and text but also tactile elements for your baby to explore? Well, you’ve just reached the pinnacle of board books.

Whether you’re looking for the perfect baby shower gift or a book to keep your baby entranced, these titles are sure to be great hits!

no no 9781664350243 A Tickle on the Tummy! by Sophie Aggett, illustrated by Katie Saunders

Get ready to tickle the tummies of kittens, pigs, bears, and monkeys! Each page presents a new animal who wants their tummy tickled. With its squishy, tickle-worthy tummy and adorable animal characters, this book will become a storytime favorite for babies and toddlers.

9781664350373 10 Things I Love About You! by Danielle McLean, illustrated by Grace Habib

This sweet touch-and-feel board book celebrates the unique love between a parent and child. Toddlers love exploring the sensory patches on every page and listening to the comforting, love-filled message.

9781664350496 Touch and Feelings: Happy Bunny by Dr. Naira Wilson, illustrated by David Creighton-Pester

You’re never too young to learn about feelings. This cheerful board book is all about feeling happy! Vibrant colors and touch-and-feel patches on every page make it perfect for babies and toddlers.

9781680106565 The Touch Book by Nicola Edwards, illustrated by Thomas Elliott

Introduce your child to new concepts and words with this Montessori-inspired board book. Through the highly touchable pages, babies will experience textures found in nature like rough bark, sticky honey, and fluffy wool.

9781664351493 Farm: My First Touch and Explore by Tiger Tales

Take a trip to the farm with this interactive board book. Your child will love the multi-sensory experience as they move sliding parts, lift flaps, and explore textures. The vibrant mixed-media illustrations and simple text make it an excellent lap-time read.

9780307120007 Pat the Bunny by Dorothy Kunhardt

Now that those little hands aren’t putting everything directly into their mouths, it’s a good time to bring out touch-and-feel classics like Pat the Bunny. With different textures on each page, this bestseller offers a playful and engaging experience for babies.

9780241502327 Night-Night: A Touch-and-Feel Playbook by Ladybird, illustrated by Lemon Ribbon Studio

Get ready for bed with this adorable touch-and-feel book. Snuggle up with your baby, say goodnight to all the animals, explore the textured patches, and look through the die-cut holes. This comforting book is the perfect addition to your baby’s bedtime routine.

9781664350472 Be Calmer, Llama! by Rosamund Lloyd, illustrated by Gareth Lucas

Even toddlers can benefit from learning mindfulness techniques. With the help of five adorable, puffy llamas, they’ll learn how to use counting to relax and let go of stress.

9780593959152 Touch and Feel Baby Animals by DK

Children love baby animals, and this book allows them to touch, pet, and pat to their heart’s content. Each page presents a new baby animal for your little one to explore.

9781536215427 I Thought I Saw A Crocodile! by Templar Books, illustrated by Lydia Nichols

Babies that like playing peek-a-boo will get a giggle out of this clever board book. A crocodile is hiding on every page, but you’ll have to move the sliders to see it. If you like this title, you’ll also enjoy the rest of the books in the I Thought I Saw series.

9781680106480 123 Fish in the Sea by Luna Parks, illustrated by Gareth Lucas

Learn about ocean life and counting with this number book! Toddlers will love following the fish through the sea and pointing out each new friend joining the fun. Raised and textured numbers on each page are perfect for little grabby hands!

9780756697860 Baby Touch and Feel: Fluffy Animals by DK

Your little one might be overwhelmed by real animals that can be pretty large to a small child, but they can get a glimpse of that experience in this sweet board book that lets them pet animals to their heart’s content — no worries about nibbled fingers!

9780593310076 Touch & Learn: Ocean by Becky Davies, illustrated by Mei Stoyva

Dive under the waves and explore the ocean with this educational board book. Tiny fingers will love tracing the felt trails through the book as they learn about life under the sea.

9781680106602 What Are Unicorns Made Of? by Amelia Hepworth, illustrated by Louise Anglicas

Bright colors, a cute unicorn character, a touch-and-feel cover, and a pop-up at the end will make this a storytime favorite for your baby. Filled with magic, adventure, and silliness, this delightful board book is perfect for the tiniest unicorn lovers.

9780448496399 Llama Llama Sand and Sun by Anna Dewdney

Are there any more beloved book characters than Llama Llama and his ever-patient Mama? In this perfectly summery book, the two spend a day at the beach, where little Llama explores everything from the sand to the water in these beautiful spreads full of interactive elements.

9781536217216 Peekaboo: Sun by Camilla Reid, illustrated by Ingela P. Arrhenius

If your baby loves the beach, they’ll also love this board book. With an interactive element on every page, there are plenty of things for little fingers to touch. They’ll enjoy the bright colors, the beach theme, and playing with the sliders to reveal hidden surprises.

9780756658410 Baby Touch and Feel: Things That Go by DK

For the child who can’t get enough of cars, boats, airplanes, and everything else that goes, this book is a dream come true — they can get up close to the myriad textures of those prized vehicles.

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in 2019 and updated in 2025.

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Adventurous Books for Fans of Pippi Longstocking

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 10:00:25 +0000

My girls love the Pippi Longstocking books and all of the hijinks she gets into! They’ve listened to this series at least ten times on audio and never get tired of it, so of course, I’ve been on the hunt for more books like Pippi Longstocking.

If you’re also looking for stories filled with adventure, laughter, friendship, and girl power, these books are worth checking out for your young Pippi lovers.

no no 9780593946244 Pippi Longstocking by Astrid Lindgren, translated by Susan Beard, read by Sutton Foster

If audiobooks are your thing, you’ll love the performance of award-winning actress Sutton Foster in this audiobook adaptation. Now, you can sit back and press “play” to enjoy all the fun, humor, and adventure with your favorite characters. The audiobook is perfect for readers of any age and is great to enjoy as a family.

9780593754085 Bridget Vanderpuff and the Baked Escape #1 by Martin Stewart, illustrated by David Habben

Bridget is an orphan with fiery red hair and a thirst for adventure. When Mr. Vanderpuff arrives at the orphanage to adopt her, she jumps at the chance to become his daughter and work at his bakery. But when Bridget’s arch-nemesis shows up, she must navigate a series of booby traps, bake some bizarre foods, and save her new dad from the clutches of an evil villain.

9781368090100 Bree Boyd is a Legend by Leah Johnson

Bree is super organized, hates surprises, and lives up to her father’s expectations. But when an errant lightning bolt gives her superpowers, Bree’s ultra-organized life turns upside down. Learning to control her powers leads to a series of hilarious disasters in this sequel to Ellie Engle Saves Herself.

9780593644331 Mr. Whiskers and the Shenanigan Sisters by Wendelin Van Draanen

Mr. Whiskers is an adorable pup who loves his human sisters, Misty and Zelda. When their father gets kidnapped, Mr. Whiskers puts his nose to the ground and takes the sisters on a clue-collecting mission through San Francisco.

9781536233643 Bringing Back Kay-Kay by Dev Kothari

Set in India, this beautifully written novel features a headstrong girl who will go to any lengths to find a missing sibling. When Lena’s beloved older brother doesn’t return from summer camp, the police label him a runaway and refuse to help. Armed with nothing but a poem and her wits, Lena heads out alone to search for her brother.

9780593533253 The Swifts: A Dictionary of Scoundrels by Beth Lincoln, illustrated by Claire Powell

When a family reunion turns deadly, Shenanigan Swift decides to find the culprit. This energetic girl lives up to her name while piecing together the clues in this suspenseful and funny mystery novel. If your kid loves Pippi Longstocking’s energy and charm, they will adore Shenangan Swift!

9780823457885 Kaya of the Ocean by Gloria L. Huang

Send your young reader to the beaches of Hawaii in this gentle fantasy novel. Kaya is anxious and afraid of the ocean, but she must face her worries head-on when she develops magical powers and a special connection to the sea. Adventure, magic, and friendship make this book an enjoyable read.

9780823456567 Bird Nerd by Jennifer Ann Richter

A love of nature combines with friendship drama in this charming and humorous middle grade novel. When Nyla enters a bird-watching competition with her class, the most popular girl in school suddenly wants to be her friend. With the competition looming, Nyla must figure out where she fits in and what is most important.

9781536241662 Montgomery Bonbon: Murder at the Museum by Alasdair Beckett-King, illustrated by Claire Powell

Humor, mystery, and adventure combine in this hilarious whodunnit about a 10-year-old girl who dresses up like a detective and solves the world’s toughest crimes. When someone dies under suspicious circumstances at the museum, Montgomery Bonbon takes the case! Don’t miss the next two books in the series, Montgomery Bonbon: Death at the Lighthouse and Montgomery Bonbon: Mystery at the Manor.

9780525552857 Shirley and Jamila Save Their Summer by Gillian Goerz

Gillian Goerz starts the Shirley and Jamila series with a beautiful middle grade graphic novel about unlikely friendships. Shirley and Jamila become fast friends despite their differences and work together to solve their neighborhood’s biggest mystery yet — a missing pet!

9780593095713 Journey to the Moon #1 by Cathy Hapka and Ellen Vandenberg, illustrated by Gillian Reid

Astronaut Girl is obsessed with all things science, especially space. With her crew — her little brother and cat — she blasts off on outer space missions. Astronaut Girl’s neighbor, Wallace, doesn’t love talking about space facts, which drives her crazy. But when they get into a sticky situation, they all need to work together to find their way home again. Check out this excellent early reader book that will keep your little one’s attention with friendship and a little bit of mystery.

9780440420477 The Penderwicks by Jeanne Birdsall

The Penderwicks hits the book scene again with a bright and beautiful new cover! It’s a story about four girls spending the summer on the Arundel estates. They quickly discover adventure-filled gardens and plenty of ways to get into trouble. This charming National Book Award Winner is sure to win over your family — my own four girls LOVE these stories starring the four sisters.

9780593118405 The Runaway Princess by Johan Troïanowski

It’s hard to believe that a princess would be bored of her life, but Robin has the itch for adventure! In this fun graphic novel, Robin disregards her parents’ displeasure and sets off on a crazy escapade. Will she be able to fill her adventurous cup before her parents drag her back home to the castle?

9781984895639 Katie the Catsitter by Colleen AF Venable, illustrated by Stephanie Yue

The summer ahead looks grim for Katie when all of her friends head to a camp her family can’t afford. But things get more interesting when she gets asked to cat-sit 217 cats! Even stranger, the cats’ owner mysteriously disappears whenever serious crimes are committed in the city — putting her at the top of the suspect list. This book is full of silliness, friendship, mystery, and felines!

yes yes Pippi Longstocking Books 9780593117811 Pippi Longstocking by Astrid Lindgren, illustrated by Ingrid Vang Nyman 9780593117842 Pippi Goes on Board by Astrid Lindgren, illustrated by Ingrid Vang Nyman 9780593117873 Pippi in the South Seas by Astrid Lindgren, illustrated by Ingrid Vang Nyman

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in 2021 and updated in 2025.

The post Adventurous Books for Fans of Pippi Longstocking appeared first on Brightly.

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Age-Appropriate Romance Reads for 10- to 12-Year-Olds

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 10:00:02 +0000

I love a good romance book, so I can understand why a ten-, eleven-, or twelve-year-old reader might also love swooning and romance.

This list of tween romance books features sweet love stories, crushes, first kisses, and friendships as the characters build new relationships. If you’re looking for sweet romance books for your tweens, this is the list to turn to.

no no 9780553751369 Ella Enchanted by Gail Carson Levine, read by Eden Riegel

This Cinderella retelling might be one of my favorite books of all time!! Shortly after birth, a curse was placed on Ella, making her obey any order given to her. Unable to break the curse herself, she searches for a fairy who can help her. Along the way, she meets Prince Char, who is completely smitten with Ella. I cannot recommend this one enough!

9780147513984 Well, That Was Awkward by Rachel Vail

Gracie and Sienna have been best friends for a long time. So, when Gracie’s giant crush, A.J., starts crushing on Sienna, Gracie refuses to admit she is heartbroken. She tries to hold it together and be the best friend sidekick, but it’s not easy.

9781984815040 Awkward Stuff by Lisi Harrison

This third book in the middle grade series, Girl Stuff, is finally hitting the bookshelves! Fonda, Drew, and Ruthie are best friends in the thick of 7th grade. Each girl has different experiences with life, from their changing bodies to relationships with boys, but they all want to experience their first kiss on the same night. Can they possibly make this happen?

9780375825446 Flipped by Wendelin Van Draanen

Juli first met Bryce in second grade, and her stomach completely flipped. Bryce was the opposite and felt uncomfortable around Juli. Six years later, they feel the same way — or do they? Just as Bryce warms up to Juli, her crush begins to wane.

9781101997253 The Epic Fail of Arturo Zamora by Pablo Cartaya

Like most middle schoolers, Arturo can’t wait for his relaxing summer break in Miami. He is looking forward to endless hours of basketball, mango smoothies, staying out until dusk, and chilling in the shade. But when a land developer wants to change his beloved community, Arturo and his super crush, Carmen, must work together to save the town.

9780375822339 Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli

I read this book over a decade ago and still love it today! Bright and bold, Stargirl arrives at Micah High School, and everyone falls in love with her unique personality, especially the narrator, Leo. But when she cheers for both the home and away teams at sporting events, she becomes an outcast at school. Leo loves her and, in desperation, begs her to conform. I highly recommend this one!

9780307980861 Goodbye Stranger by Rebecca Stead

When they were little, best friends Bridge, Emily, and Tab promised each other they would never fight. This promise becomes challenging to keep as they grow up and develop new interests (and crushes) during their 7th-grade year. Can they make it through the school year with their friendship intact?

9780385730587 The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants by Ann Brashares

This series hit the New York Times bestseller list for a reason! It’s about four friends with an unbreakable bond and one pair of pants that mysteriously fit each girl perfectly. As the girls go their separate ways for the summer, they meet boys, fall in love, and make unforgettable memories. The pants join each girl on her adventures and tie them together even more.

9780147517760 The Next Great Jane by K. L. Going

Jane wants to become a famous writer like Jane Austen and thinks that befriending a bestselling author (and her annoying son) will help. But when her mom tries to claim custody and move her back to California, Jane embarks on a mission to find her dad a suitable partner. Humor, heart, and misadventures abound in this delightful middle grade rom-com.

9780593650066 Turning Twelve by Kathryn Ormsbee, Illustrated by Molly Brooks

Katie’s twelfth birthday ushers in a whirlwind of changes – from her first bra and babysitting gig to a surprising crush. This captivating graphic novel from the creators of Growing Pangs explores the thrill and trials of growing up. As Katie navigates new experiences, she discovers unexpected feelings for her friend Grace. Will she have the courage to embrace her true self?

9780147516336 Me and Miranda Mullaly by Jake Gerhardt

Three boys all have crushes on one girl. Miranda, the one special girl, hardly knows that any of the boys exist! If you are interested in a book full of humorous misunderstandings, this book is for you.

9780553510522 Project (Un)popular Book #2: Totally Crushed by Kristen Tracy

The second book in the Project (Un)Popular series is packed with middle school challenges. Best friends Perry and Venice struggle through feeling left out, lackluster school assignments, conflicts with siblings, and new crushes. Is sixth grade going to be as awful as it appears to be?

9781662640407 The Love Report by BeKa, illustrated by Maya

Lola and Grace may not have boyfriends, but they keep track of everyone who does. As they go through the year, they compile a love report on all the middle school relationships and analyze why some seem to work, and others fizzle out quickly. This opens their eyes to more than they ever anticipated!

9780593180075 11 Paper Hearts by Kelsey Hartwell

Ella’s perfect life turns upside down when she wakes up in the hospital after a terrible car accident. She is shocked that she can’t remember anything that happened in the last month, including why she broke up with her boyfriend. A series of clues written on paper hearts help her remember what happened.

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Get Moving! 12 Books Designed To Make Kids Move

Thu, 06 Feb 2025 10:00:07 +0000

Reading doesn’t have to be a quiet, couch-centered activity.

For a little one who is bursting with energy and can barely sit still for a page or two, these twelve books are ideal — they practically insist that kiddos get up and move around.

Prepare for lots of bouncing, jumping, and clapping … and some very happy little readers.

no no 9780593659731 Play Outside with Me by Kat Chen, illustrated by Lorraine Nam

Encourage your little one to get outside and play in the fresh air with this interactive board book. Designed to work like a playdate-in-a-book, young children can engage in conversation and get inspiration for a trip to the park.

9780307930811 Dancing Feet! http://www.randomhouse.com/book/33172/dancing-feet-by-lindsey-craig by Lindsey Craig, illustrated by Marc Brown

Each page shows a set of footprints and the reader tries to guess which animal they belong to before turning the page to find out. Perfect for reading to little ones as they creep, thump, and tiptoe alongside the cast of animals.

9780593712184 Let’s Put That Away! My First Book of Organizing by Clea Shearer and Joanna Teplin, illustrated by Hsinping Pan

Who says cleaning up is a chore? This brightly illustrated board book from The Home Edit for Kids puts the fun into tidying up. Each page presents children with tasks like picking up toys and putting away toiletries. Follow the directions on the pages for a cleaner home while having fun!

9780399256028 You Are a Lion! And Other Fun Yoga Poses by Tae-Eun Yoo

Who knew yoga for preschoolers could be this fun? The animal poses, along with animal actions and sounds, make this book a good mix of exuberant and relaxing.

9780593430163 Let’s Make Music (An All Are Welcome Board Book) by Alexandra Penfold, illustrated by Suzanne Kaufman

Dance, clap, and tap along with this celebration of music from the creative team behind All Are Welcome. Get out any musical instruments you have (or make some) so children can move all parts of their bodies. Onomatopoeia and colorful artwork make this book a delight to read.

9780399237102 Clap Your Hands by Lorinda Bryan Cauley

Join a menagerie of rambunctious animals who roar, growl, crawl, and slither their way through this rhyming book.

9780593530467 ABC and You and Me by Corinna Luyken

Learn the alphabet by bending and twisting your body into the shape of the letters with this unique board book. Readers of all ages will enjoy stretching their limbs as they follow the directions to make each letter.

9781662651731 Tiny Bear Can, Too! by Yusuke Yonezu

Tiny Bear wiggles, jumps, twists, and kicks his legs like his animal friends in this adorable board book. Little readers will love lifting the flaps and doing each action alongside Tiny Bear and the other forest creatures.

9781958803943 Can You Do This? by Megan Roy

Each page in this vibrant picture book asks children to perform a skill like touching their toes, taking giant steps, and spinning in a circle. It’s the perfect book to read when kiddos need to get their wiggles out.

9780525428893 High Five by Adam Rubin, illustrated by Daniel Salmieri

Get your slapping hand ready because it will get plenty of use with this hilarious book by the author of Dragons Love Tacos. Young readers will stretch their hands and practice their high-fives with a series of silly challenges designed to make them laugh. It’s an excellent book to read to a group or one-on-one.

9781536231298 I Am Wriggly by Michael Rosen, illustrated by Robert Starling

Bouncy rhyme and colorful illustrations will draw children in as they follow the rabbit’s movement cues. From wiggling their ears to jiggling in their chairs, young readers will move every part of their bodies. With any luck, they will get all their wiggles out by the time you turn the last page.

9781536222067 Go and Get with Rex by David LaRochelle, illustrated by Mike Wohnoutka

Burn some energy and learn the alphabet with this fun and silly game. The characters in the story count to three, then run to get something that starts with a particular letter. Children will have so much fun playing along that they won’t realize they’re learning their letters at the same time.

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Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in 2015 and updated in 2025.

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Books for Budding Chefs: 11 Great Cookbooks for Little Kids

Fri, 03 Jan 2025 10:00:55 +0000

Cooking is a great life skill, and kids can start learning it at a young age.

Plus, most kids love the idea of helping out in the kitchen, creating their own culinary masterpieces, and getting a chance to try out all those fun kitchen tools. (I’m an adult, and I still love getting to cut things, use a fancy kitchen gadget, and pull something delicious out of the oven.)

If you have a budding chef who not only wants to help out in the kitchen, but also wants a cookbook of their own, these eight are definite winners. Some are based on famous works of children’s literature, which makes them even more fun. Bon appétit!

no no 9781883672065 Pretend Soup and Other Real Recipes by Mollie Katzen and Ann Henderson

This book puts children in the driver’s seat by providing them with simple, wholesome, and healthy recipes they can make (with an adult’s help). They will learn counting, measuring, and food literacy as they make yummy meals.
(Ages 3 – 7)

9780593659533 Bluey and Bingo’s Fancy Restaurant Cookbook by Penguin Young Readers Licenses

Little Bluey fans can make their favorite foods from the popular Disney+ television show. Whether your child wants to make Dad’s birthday omelet or Nana’s ice blocks, you will find simple, easy-to-follow instructions for 13 delicious dishes.
(Ages 4 – 7)

9780744073980 Children’s Quick and Easy Cookbook by Angela Wilkes

This book is an excellent pick for kids who want to try a variety of recipes, from snacks and desserts to main dishes. Simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions make the 60 recipes in this book ideal for budding chefs.
(Ages 5 – 7)

9781948703222 My First Cookbook edited by America’s Test Kitchen Kids

This awesome new cooking collection will inspire the youngest chefs to enter the kitchen, empower them to cook, and engage their creativity. It offers simple after-school snacks, family meals, and holiday celebration recipes for beginner cooks.
(Ages 5 – 8)

9780525612247 Baking Wonderland by Jean Parker and Rachel Smith

Baking is one of the first things young children do in the kitchen, and this book invites them to mix up tasty treats for the oven. From cookies and cupcakes to frostings and toppings, children will love making all the delicious recipes featured in this book!
(Ages 5 – 9)

9781368060738 The Disney Princess Cookbook by Disney Books

Cook up enchanting main dishes, desserts, and breakfasts with this Disney Princess-inspired cookbook! Young chefs will stir up some magic as they learn the basics of the kitchen and follow beginner-friendly recipes — all with the help of their favorite princesses.
(Ages 6 – 8)

9781368074971 The Disney Christmas Cookbook by Joy Howard and Disney Books

Add an extra helping of magic to your holiday cooking with this Disney cookbook. Kids will find festive recipes inspired by their favorite movies, shows, and characters. From Pooh Bear’s Mini Honey Buns to Encanto-inspired Arepas, young sous chefs will discover dozens of dishes to liven up the holidays.
(Ages 6 – 8)

9780525579595 Cook It! The Dr. Seuss Cookbook for Kid Chefs by Daniel Gercke, photographed by Christopher Testani

If your kid wants to try green eggs and ham, roast beast, or any of the other wacky foods from Dr. Seuss’s beloved books, this cookbook is a must-have. With over 50 recipes kids will recognize from their favorite stories, this unique cookbook will have them stirring up edible creations in no time.
(Ages 7 and up)

9781639623181 The Ultimate Science Cookbook for Kids by Highlights

Cooking is science, and this cookbook leans into experimenting in the kitchen with exciting and sometimes explosive recipes. With over 75 edible science experiments to try, kids will have no problem finding a fun recipe to keep them occupied.
(Ages 7 and up)

9781465435460 Complete Children’s Cookbook by DK

This book will keep you and your sous chef (or is it the other way around?) plenty busy — there are over 150 exciting recipes to try. Plan a six-course meal for a special occasion, or have a quiet Saturday morning baking muffins. You can’t go wrong!
(Ages 7 – 10)

9781580898171 Plant, Cook, Eat! by Joe Archer and Caroline Craig

This awesomely comprehensive cookbook takes kids back to square one by showing them how to grow ingredients at home. Whether your family is interested in starting a home garden or you’ve got a green-thumbed kiddo who’s jonesing for more independence, Plant, Cook, Eat! is the deliciously holistic answer.
(Ages 7 – 10)

You might also like:

Editor’s Note: This post was originally published in 2015 and updated in 2024.

The post Books for Budding Chefs:
11 Great Cookbooks for Little Kids appeared first on Brightly.

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Highly-Anticipated Middle Grade & Chapter Books of 2025

Tue, 10 Dec 2024 10:00:15 +0000

It’s hard to believe the year has ended, and a new one is upon us! A fresh year means new beginnings and a bunch of brand-new book releases!

This middle grade and chapter book list is full of diverse characters, daily struggles, hilarious situations, and fun-filled illustrations to keep kids engaged. They will love digging into these books!

no no 9780593708033 Cinderella and the Beast (or, Beauty and the Glass Slipper) by Kim Bussing

If there is any genre that I gravitate toward, it’s a fractured fairy tale. Ella loves to imagine not living with her evil step-family. One morning, her dream comes true when she wakes up in a castle housed by a temperamental beast. Meanwhile, Belle works hard to save her family’s business through a royal competition but winds up with a stepfamily who refuses to let her enter.

9780593703007 Dr. Seuss Graphic Novel: Green Eggs and Ham Take a Hike by James Kochalka

This is an excellent option for a child transitioning to chapter books. Most kids are familiar with the story, which makes it easier to read and comprehend. Full of brightly colored illustrations and familiar characters, Sam-I-Am and Walter, your reader will love this one!

9780593814512 Pizza and Taco: Coolest Club Ever! by Stephen Shaskan

I love the Pizza and Taco graphic novel series! Pizza and Taco start a new club for kids who love to make comic books! However, things don’t go as planned, and everyone goes to the Cheeseburger’s video game club instead. What’s so cool about that club? Pizza and Taco have to find out!

9780593564226 A Copycat Conundrum (The Misfits) by Lisa Yee, illustrated by Dan Santat

My oldest daughter loved the first book in this series! The Misfits may be an awkward group of kids fighting crime, but they pass with flying colors whenever they receive a new mission. However, Zeke, the nicest kid in the school, receives some threatening notes while earthquakes send ripples through San Francisco. Do the two things correlate, or is it a coincidence?

9780593807217 Sweet Valley Twins: Sneaking Out by Francine Pascal, illustrated by Claudia Aguirre, adapted by Nicole Andelfinger

I loved the Sweet Valley Twins growing up, and it’s fun to see my girls enjoy this new graphic novel series! Absolutely everyone but the twins is going to the best concert ever. But no matter what the twins do or say, their parents won’t let them go. Jessica decides it’s worth seeing the band even if she has to lie to her parents and her twin!

9780593807095 Hilo Book 11: The Great Space Iguana by Judd Winick

This silly, action-packed graphic novel series is back with another installment! Can you imagine a giant space iguana landing in your backyard? Well, D.J. can because it happens to him in this book. Can the crew get the iguana home before the entire universe is at risk?

9780593698143 On Thin Ice by Jessica Kim

Twins Dex and Phoebe love being on the ice for different reasons. Dex loves hockey, while Phoebe competes in pairs figure skating. Unfortunately, Phoebe’s partner gets injured, and Dex gets cut from the hockey team. Can the two siblings become unstoppable figure skating partners despite their differences?

9780593112113 Max in the Land of Lies by Adam Gidwitz

In this sequel to the historical fiction novel Max in the House of Spies, Max is back and wants to return to Germany, even if that means becoming a British spy. Max’s missions are to penetrate the center of Nazi radio and to find his missing parents. He risks everything as he tries to keep the truths and lies straight.

9780593651643 Speak Up, Santiago! by Julio Anta, illustrated by Gabi Mendez

Santi is thrilled to spend the summer in Hillside Valley, filled with Spanish-speaking kids. Santi may be Columbian, but his Spanish isn’t great. He worries he won’t be able to keep up with everyone and stresses about not digging deep enough into his Columbian culture. This is an excellent book about community and friendship.

9780593696514 Glitch Girl by Rainie Oet

This poignant novel in verse follows J— from fifth to seventh grade as she grapples with ADHD, the loneliness of middle school, her overwhelming crush on a girl named Junie, and her gender identity. With the help of a growing friendship with Sam, a nonbinary classmate, J— begins to realize that it’s okay to defy conventional norms and expectations.

9780593712276 Max Meow 6: When Pancakes Go Bad (Really Bad!) by John Gallagher

The sixth volume of the Max Meow series is here! The city of Kittyopolis is one giant food mess! Pancakes suddenly turn evil, and Max’s old enemies band together to form the Legion of Nasty. If you have a reader who loves whacky stories with lots of humor, pick up this installment!

9780593523957 Whale Eyes by James Robinson, illustrated by Brian Rea

Are you looking for a middle grade book that isn’t the regular run-of-the-mill? This is the one. It is a memoir told through stories and interactive visuals, allowing readers to see the world through the author’s disabling eye conditions. This unique book is perfect for book lovers who want an interactive experience.

9780593959305 The Green Kingdom by Cornelia Funke and Tammi Hartung, illustrated by Melissa Castrillón

International, award-winning, and New York Times best-selling children’s author of The Inkheart Trilogy Cornelia Funke pens a story about twelve-year-old Caspia who has to spend the entire summer with her parents in Brooklyn. She hates big cities, especially New York – too many people, too loud, too dirty. When she discovers mysterious, old letters from a girl who traveled the world with her botanist father, each one opening with a puzzle, Caspia soon finds herself on a quest to solve them all.

9780735230613 Creaky Acres: A Graphic Novel by Calista Brill and Nilah Magruder, illustrated by Nilah Magruder

Nora is used to living in her suburban area with her close group of friends. But her world is turned upside down when her mom accepts a job in a poor, rural area. She must adjust to being the new kid at school and attending a new barn called Creaky Acres, where she continues her horseback riding hobby.

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The Best Middle Grade & Chapter Books of 2024

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 10:00:44 +0000

2024 has been a BANNER year for middle grade books! This year brought exciting stories from debut authors, continuations of favorite series, and new titles from beloved creators. In this list, I’ve rounded up the best middle grade and chapter books published in 2024. Whether your kid loves adventurous stories, humorous books, or more serious topics, these fantastic options are waiting to be cracked open!

no no 9780593527542 The Bletchley Riddle by Ruta Sepetys and Steve Sheinkin

The collaboration between these two bestselling authors makes me want to drop everything and read this book immediately. This middle grade historical fiction novel follows two siblings in WWII as they try to improve their lives. Older brother Jakob works to help solve the Nazi’s Enigma cipher, while Lizzie attempts to find their missing mother.

9780593697924 Popcorn by Rob Harrell

Rob Harrell, the author of the bestselling book Wink, hit the shelves with a new story about anxiety and OCD, but with a humorous spin on it! Andrew’s biggest worry is making it through Picture Day. As his anxiety bubbles up, he hears news that his grandmother with Alzheimer’s is missing! Can he use his coping skills to make it through this awful day?

9780593809860 Impossible Creatures by Katherine Rundell, illustrated by Ashley Mackenzie

Christopher’s life changes forever when he finds out about Archipelago, a group of unmarked islands that house magical creatures. On the same day, he meets a girl named Mal, who is on the run. The two team up for a crazy adventure and search for clues behind the island’s weakening magic. An instant #1 New York Times bestseller, this book is not to be missed!

9780593661246 Puggleton Park #1 by Deanna Kizis, illustrated by Hannah Peck

The cover of this book has me swooning! Penelope, a well-mannered and happy pug, lands in a pickle when she gets lost at the park. Luckily, Lady Diggleton swoops her up, and Penelope quickly grows to love her. The only problem is Lady Diggleton is trying to find her previous owner, and Penelope doesn’t want to leave her new home.

9780593659304 Sing It Like Celia by Mónica Mancillas

When Salva’s life takes an unexpected turn, she clings to her love for Celia Cruz and her passion for singing. Relocating to a remote RV campground with her dad, Salva soon makes new friends and discovers they’ve formed a band. Captivated by her stunning voice, they eagerly invite her to join. Through the magic of music, Salva finds her voice, uncovers her true self, and embraces a vibrant new community. A heartwarming journey perfect for fans of Merci Suárez Changes Gears.

9780593617656 The Night Librarian: A Graphic Novel by Christopher Lincoln

Page and Turner are twins who love to read (no surprise with names like those!). They spend their afternoons in the New York City library until the villains from classic books escape and start causing mayhem. The twins must act quickly to save their beloved library from utter destruction!

no no 9781536229097 Louder Than Hunger by John Schu

This middle grade realistic fiction book tells the story of Jake, who isn’t like the other kids at school. He enjoys working at the nursing home because he would rather be around people who aren’t his age. He also struggles with not eating enough. Jake feels a sense of power when he doesn’t eat, even though he knows it isn’t good for him. This beautifully written book delivers a timely message of self-acceptance, supporting one another, and honesty.

9780593646977 It Came From The Trees by Ally Russell

Get ready for a spine-tingling adventure, in this modern Bigfoot story! When Jenna’s best friend Reese goes missing in the woods, no one believes her wild story about a mysterious creature. Determined to find Reese, Jenna teams up with her new scout troop to uncover the truth. With giant footprints, eerie noises, and a lurking monster, can Jenna and her friends survive the night?

9780593644409 Bisby Cross and the Bad Apple by Liz Garton Scanlon, illustrated by Dung Ho

Bisby Cross is a positive, perky, all-things-are-peachy kind of eight-year-old. She is thrilled to head back to school because she loves school, but Bisby’s new teacher isn’t too keen on her. After her teacher puts a significant damper on Bisby’s science fair project, Bisby struggles to keep a positive attitude. This is an excellent chapter book series for lower elementary school students.

9780593430484 We Are Big Time by Hena Khan, illustrated by Safiya Zerrougui

Kids who have loved Roller Girl and The Crossover will enjoy this colorful graphic novel. After moving from Florida to Wisconsin, Aliya is excited but nervous about starting at a new Islamic school and joining the girls’ basketball team, which happens to be terrible. As the girls improve their skills on the court, they realize they also need confidence and teamwork to make the wins start rolling in.

9780593112083 Max in the House of Spies by Adam Gidwitz

A young Jewish boy becomes a British spy to return to war-torn Berlin to look for his parents. With two tiny traveling companions on his shoulders, Max sets off on the adventure of a lifetime. This quirky, funny book delivers an irresistible and essential story for historical fiction lovers.

9781536230888 The Secret Library by Kekla Magoon

Imagine finding a secret library where each book is a portal to a specific time period! 11-year-old Dally experiences this after her grandfather dies and leaves her an envelope containing a map to this incredible library. Will Dally continue living outside reality by immersing herself in the secret library, or will she learn to face her problems head-on?

9780593532645 The Adventures of Invisible Boy by Doogie Horner

Would you love to be invisible? Stanley sure would and can’t believe his luck when an unfortunate spill at the science fair makes his dream come true. This new graphic novel series is perfect for those who love adventure and mayhem!

no no 9780525555063 Amil and the After by Veera Hiranandani

Amil and his twin sister Nisha are unsure of their new surroundings in India. Moving from what is now Pakistan to a new country left them feeling unsettled. Amil uses his drawings to tell his story during this time of uncertainty and vulnerability.

9780593615867 May the Best Player Win Kyla Zhao

When May Li’s middle-school chess team wins the state championship and is headed to nationals, she earns praise and recognition; an award for top female player and a feature in a major chess magazine! But some teammates, including her friend Ralph, are questioning her skills. Determined to prove herself, May bets that she can win the school tournament and become team captain. As pressure mounts, she wonders if she can still enjoy playing chess while also playing to win. Can she balance fun and competition?

9780399557637 The Frindle Files by Andrew Clements

I loved Frindle and was delighted to see a follow-up book! Although the two books can be read together, they also can stand alone. Do you know a kid who loves gaming? That’s Josh Willet. This tech-savvy boy gets frustrated when his new ELA teacher won’t let them use technology. When Josh discovers his teacher is hiding a secret about his past involving technology, Josh and his friends team up to uncover the mystery.

9781984830296 The Misfits #1: A Royal Conundrum by Lisa Yee, illustrated by Dan Santat

Kids who have outgrown The Bad Guys will love this highly illustrated series starter from Newbery Honoree Lisa Yee and Caldecott Medalist Dan Santat. It’s about a group of pre-teen misfits at a boarding school for amateur crime fighters. They must work together to stop a major heist and save the school from closing. If your kid obsesses over heist stories, add this book to their New Year’s reading list!

9780593650431 All the Best Dogs by Emily Jenkins, illustrated by Manuel Preitano

Four dogs and their sixth-grade owners meet at a dog park on a weekend in June. Each individual (including the dogs) has something they are worried about, some bigger than others. The kids and dogs experience many unexpected and life-changing events throughout the day. This is an excellent pick for readers who love animals and silliness.

9780593624524 Magnolia Wu Unfolds It All by Chanel Miller

Magnolia hangs onto every lost sock at her parent’s laundromat, hoping to return them to their owners. Along with her new friend Iris, Magnolia takes the sock collection and her thirst for adventure on an unforgettable journey through New York City. The girls meet interesting characters, make memories, and return the socks one by one.

9780593646298 The School for Invisible Boys by Shaun David Hutchinson

Hector would love to disappear. After his best friend turns into his biggest bully, Hector wishes for invisibility like never before. But when his wish comes true and he turns invisible, he meets another boy named Orson, who has been stuck in an invisibility state for years. Hector quickly learns invisibility isn’t all it’s cracked up to be.

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Your Baby’s First Year: What to Read to Them at Every Stage

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 09:00:14 +0000

The difference between a newborn baby and a 1-year-old is so amazing! In that one year, they grow and change so much.

Here are some of the things your baby may be doing and learning over that first year and some books and reading techniques that may work well for them during each of their various stages.

yes no 0–3 Months

Babies are so little at this point, without a lot of ability to interact. But they love to be held and touched during this time, which makes it the perfect time to hold them on your lap with a little book and start helping them develop a love for reading. They should also be doing tummy time, so you can lie next to them on the floor and hold a book in front of you both, which gives them something look at as they strengthen their chest and neck muscles.

9780803735316 All of Baby, Nose to Toes by Victoria Adler, illustrated by Hiroe Nakata

Featuring the cutest roly-poly baby, discover your baby’s body parts with this adorable book. Start with the eyes and ears and work all the way down to their tickly legs and toes!

yes no 9781536211351 Huggy Kissy by Leslie Patricelli

We love these simple, yet clever board books. When you have a baby at home, everyone wants to love on their tiny growing body any chance they can get. This book features affection in a lot of different ways and ends with the perfect snuggle!

9781680105896 Dinosaur, Dinosaur, Say Good Night by Tiger Tales, illustrated by Sanja Rescek

Sleep (or lack thereof) is probably on your mind a lot during this period, so this fun rhyming bedtime book might be just what you both need to make bedtime a positive experience.

yes no 3–6 Months

Toward the end of this period, most babies will be able to sit up on their own. Let them sit next to you on the couch or sit on the floor together. They’re also are starting to see in full color, loving sounds, and starting to develop motor skills. Since most babies aren’t moving too much yet, this is a great time to spend a lot of time reading before they get too mobile.

9781426334665 National Geographic Kids First Board Book: Wild Animal Sounds by National Geographic, Kids

The real photographs of these wild animals are perfect for learning more than the basic animals and their sounds. And if there’s anything cuter than a little child howling like a wolf, I don’t know what it is!

9781984849519 Hey, Baby! by Andrea Pippins

Filled to the brim with lively illustrations and photographs of a baby, it showcases the love between a child and their mom as the duo goes throughout their day!

9781664350755 Don’t Mix Up My Farm by Rosamund Lloyd

Farm animals and their noises are one of the first things babies learn and pick up on! Babies not only get to look at the cow, sheep, pick and duck, but will love to touch the various textures — from smooth to rigid and glossy to furry.

yes no 6–9 Months

Your baby is probably pretty wiggly now, starting to crawl and maybe even cruising along the furniture, which means it can be more challenging to get them to sit still for a book. Don’t push it — you don’t want them to associate reading with unhappiness — but try a few times a day. They’re starting to learn names and also object permanence (meaning that something is still there, even if they can’t see it) and they’re really interested in seeing themselves in the mirror.

9780679890485 Hand, Hand, Fingers Thumb by Al Perkins

The silly monkeys are drumming along to the beat in this rhyme and repeat book! The fun illustrations and sturdy pages are perfect for keeping your little one engaged and having fun. Plus a little drumming with some chubby baby hands never hurt anyone!

9781664350700 Noisy Babies by Lauren Crisp

Babies love to see other babies, especially when they are doing activities they are familiar with! Talk with your baby as you go throughout a regular day of waking up, playing, eating food and getting ready for bedtime. Each page has a touch-and-feel experience, allowing your baby to feel all different kinds of textures, providing even more interaction.

no no 9780756634384 FUN FLAPS: All About Me! by DK

I love this book for teaching parts of the body. The flaps are big and sturdy, perfect for little hands. And seeing the babies behind the flaps is great practice for understanding object permanence.

yes no 9–12 Months

Now your baby is probably really mobile and starting to think about first words. They can identify different objects by name now, so books where you ask them to find items are really fun for them. They also love to move, so any book that encourages action is sure to be a hit. Many babies, now a little more used to being mobile, will be happier to sit on your lap and read.

9780593226933 The Very Hungry Caterpillar Eats Breakfast by Eric Carle

The Very Hungry Caterpillar is still hungry, but specifically for breakfast this time! Pore over this brightly illustrated board book and find all of the things your baby enjoys eating and talk about the new foods they aren’t familiar with!

9781465457004 100 First Words by DK

This book is the kind of thing little ones love to look through again and again, identifying things they know and pointing to pictures when prompted. I’ve never met a child who didn’t want to look through this and show what they know.

9780375845406 Elmo Says… (Sesame Street) by Sarah Albee, illustrated by Tom Leigh

Now that your baby knows a few words and can follow some actions, this “Simon Says” book is the perfect way to play with your up and coming toddler!

You might also like:

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in 2015 and updated in 2024.

The post Your Baby’s First Year:
What to Read to Them at Every Stage appeared first on Brightly.

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New Middle Grade & Chapter Books Kids Will Love in Fall 2024

Fri, 16 Aug 2024 09:00:54 +0000

Not only is the air getting crisper and leaves are falling from the trees, but tons of great new chapter books and middle grade books are being released this fall. Whether you are looking for historical fiction, action, adventure, or a novel in verse, you will find something for your child in this book list.

Here is a sneak peek at the most exciting chapter books and middle grade books coming to bookstores this season.

no no 9780593647042 It Happened to Anna by Tehlor Kay Mejia

If you have a middle grader who loves a bit of spookiness, this is the book for them. Sadie has difficulty making friends, but it isn’t her fault. A ghost follows her around and sabotages any friendships she forms. When her ghost kills her best friend, Anna, Sadie swears off friends until a new girl named Mal appears to be immune to the ghost. Anna is thrilled to have a friend until she realizes Mal could be even more dangerous than the ghost.

9780593382462 Stephen Curry: The Official Graphic Novel by Josh Bycel and Rich Korson, illustrated by Damion Scott

A graphic novel sports story about an underdog — what’s not to love? Follow Stephen Curry’s progress through this brightly illustrated book as he works to overcome obstacles and becomes one of the top NBA players of all time!

9780593533260 The Swifts: A Gallery of Rogues by Beth Lincoln, illustrated by Claire Powell

Shenanigan Swift is excited for a little downtime after the murderer from their family reunion was caught in the previous book, The Swifts: A Dictionary of Scoundrels. However, when a valuable painting is taken from the Swift household and ends up in Paris, she has no choice but to go after the thieves. Will Shenanigan be able to use her detective skills and cleverness to get it back?

9780593624814 Buffalo Dreamer by Violet Duncan

Follow Summer through her journey of discovering her Native heritage — both the good and bad things that happened. This story opens up about family history and the bravery it takes to stand up for your beliefs.

9780593697924 Popcorn by Rob Harrell

Have you ever felt like everything that could possibly go wrong does? That’s how Andrew feels during Picture Day at school. Panic builds inside him as the day gets progressively worse. The best he can hope for is that he won’t have a panic attack in public. This timely novel from the author of Wink uses humor to address topics like anxiety, OCD, and perfectionism while offering real-life coping tips.

9780593565971 Taxi Ghost by Sophie Escabasse

Sophie is bummed that all of her friends are headed to warmer weather during winter break. The situation worsens when she gets her first period right as the break starts! Now, while she is dealing with a new season of life, a gaggle of ghosts appears, asking for her help with their problems.

9780593809792 The Queen of Ocean Parkway by Sarvenaz Tash

This book is like Only Murders In the Building for kids! Roya’s dad is in charge of their entire apartment building, which means she gets to learn and know everything going on around her. Because Roya wants to be a reporter when she gets older, she creates a secret podcast about the building’s residents, which gets exciting when one of the residents goes missing.

9780593699263 Kareem Between by Shifa Saltagi Safadi

Seventh grader Kareem loves football and hanging out with his best friend. When football tryouts don’t go well, and his best friend moves away, he feels like the seventh grade is shaping up to be the worst year yet. Things start looking up when the star quarterback promises he can get Kareem a second chance with the football team. However, he must choose between doing something he knows is wrong and languishing in middle school obscurity for the rest of the year.

9780593809860 Impossible Creatures by Katherine Rundell, illustrated by Ashley Mackenzie

9780593177006 Lola by Karla Arenas Valenti

Lola’s brother Alex is sick and not getting better. Meanwhile, a magical tree with enchanted blossoms next to her home also grows ill and turns to ash. Believing her brother’s illness and the tree’s problems are related, Lola travels to a hidden world to find a cure for both.

9780593703069 Dr. Seuss Graphic Novel: The Grinch Takes a Vacation by Kaeti Vandorn

It’s vacation time in Whoville! Even though the Grinch tends to err on the grumpy side, he decides to try a vacation. Through trial and error, he learns he doesn’t like the snow, the sand, or crowded spaces. Soon, he starts to second-guess the whole vacation thing. Grinch lovers won’t want to miss this graphic novel featuring their favorite curmudgeon!

9780593703496 Pizza and Taco: Best Christmas Ever! by Stephen Shaskan

When Christmas rolls around and your child wants a seasonal book to read, this early graphic novel is an excellent choice! Even though Christmas is a few months away, Pizza and Taco make their Christmas lists and try to be as kind and helpful as possible. Well, at least Taco is being helpful. Will Pizza get any presents even though he might be on the naughty list?

9780593708828 Witchwood: A Ravenfall Novel by Kalyn Josephson

Best friends Anna and Colin have supernatural powers and are excited to be back together after spending the summer apart. They look forward to embarking on a new magical mission, but their plans take an unexpected turn when witches start going missing in the town of Witchwood. Now, it’s up to the kids to figure out what is happening to the witches before Anna becomes the next victim.

9780593810477 The Graveyard Gift by Fern Forgettable, as told by Piper CJ

Being part fae means you are part human, part magical. However, Rosemary Thorpe doesn’t realize the ability to foresee someone’s death makes her part fae until she attends Fern’s School for Wayward Fae. As Rosemary adjusts to her new school and identity, a class member goes missing. The students must use their fae gifts to solve the mystery.

9780593570371 Katie the Catsitter 4: The Purrfect Plan by Colleen AF Venable, illustrated by Stephanie Yue

Pick up this book if you have a reader who loves cats, mysteries, drama, and graphic novels! Katie the Catsitter is at it again with a new problem to solve — but not without help from her friends and an entourage of cats!

9780593527542 The Bletchley Riddle by Ruta Sepetys and Steve Sheinkin

Two bestselling authors join forces to deliver this stunning middle grade historical fiction novel. Bletchley Park is home to Britain’s codebreaking factory in WWII, and 19-year-old Jakob is one of the top minds working to break the Nazi’s Enigma machine. Meanwhile, his 14-year-old sister Lizzie works to solve the mystery behind their mother’s disappearance.

9780593698747 Operation Chaos (The Forgotten Five, Book 5) by Lisa McMann

Lisa McMann fans will be thrilled to dive into the fifth installment of this wildly popular series! In this adventure, the five’s beloved mentor, the Librarian, gets kidnapped and held captive in a dungeon. With Brix taking the lead, can the supernatural kids rescue their friends without causing more problems?

9780593648452 On the Block edited by Ellen Oh

This anthology of short stories is an excellent pick for readers interested in the immigrant experience. The Entrada is a building where 12 immigrant families live, all with different backgrounds. Follow along as you read stories about people with unique cultures and experiences — and how their lives intertwine.

9780593622179 The Last Kids on Earth: The Graphic Novel by Max Brallier, illustrated by Brian Churilla

The Last Kids on Earth series is so popular with young readers that Netflix adapted it into an animated series. And now fans have a new way to obsess over their favorite books — as graphic novels! Since the monster apocalypse hit Earth, Jack wants to be ready for anything. Zombies and other monsters might be too much for him to handle alone, so he builds a ragtag team of misfits to help him defeat the ultimate monster, Blarg.

9780593707951 Mr. Lemoncello’s Fantabulous Finale by Chris Grabenstein

The well-loved Mr. Lemoncello’s Library series comes to a close with this final installment. Mr. Lemoncello invites a bunch of 13-year-olds to compete against each other in the ultimate challenge. What will they win if they become the champion of the games? Mr. Lemoncello’s entire game-making empire!

9780593479506 Futureland: The Architect Games by H.D. Hunter, illustrated by Khadijah Khatib

Chock full of mazes, adventure, mind games, and more, this series is excellent for readers who crave high-energy books. Follow along in the third installment in this series as Cam Walker and his family take on the people who continue to cause havoc in their flying amusement park.

The post New Middle Grade & Chapter Books Kids Will Love in Fall 2024 appeared first on Brightly.

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20 Smart Books To Help Get Your Kids Ready for Preschool or Kindergarten

Tue, 16 Jul 2024 13:00:56 +0000

Unbelievably, my oldest daughter is going into kindergarten this year.

Like every parent, I swear she isn’t old enough — wasn’t she just a baby a few weeks ago?

She’s really excited, but I also recognize she doesn’t have a great feel for what school actually is like. So of course I’ve turned to picture books to help explain what she should expect from kindergarten.

Whether you’re helping your child prepare for preschool or kindergarten, these books are great for helping you talk about what to look forward to and answering questions they may have about all the fun and learning that’s ahead.

no no 9780593324103 Hello Preschool! by Priscilla Burris

This adorable board book introduces the tiniest readers to a preschool class. From meeting the teacher and making new friends to finding a cubby and participating in circle time, this book will familiarize rising preschoolers with the ins and outs of the classroom.

9780593484623 KINDergarten by Vera Ahiyya, illustrated by Joey Chou

There are many ways to show kindness, and this kindergarten class tries to do as many as possible. Even though Leo is nervous for his first day of school, he quickly learns that small acts of kindness add up and get noticed. It’s a beautiful book to calm first-day jitters and encourage young readers to be kind.

9780593226940 How to Be Kind in Kindergarten by D.J. Steinberg, illustrated by Ruth Hammond

How to Be Kind in Kindergarten is an adorable handbook for little kids that teaches them how to show kindness to others. From taking turns on the swings to sharing toys, these sweet, simple tips offer guidance to all new kindergarteners.

9781368046459 The Pigeon HAS to Go to School! by Mo Willems

Another hit in the beloved Pigeon series by Mo Willems! The lovable and expressive Pigeon’s resistance to the idea of school provides a relatable and amusing perspective for young readers, making it a perfect read-aloud for easing first-day-of-school jitters.

9781536231465 Olu’s Teacher: A Story About Starting Preschool by Jamel C. Campbell, illustrated by Lydia Mba

Despite his parents’ reassurances, Olu feels nervous about meeting his new preschool teacher. However, when he arrives at school, Olu discovers that his teacher is friendly, plays the guitar, and reads stories to the class. Best of all, Olu’s teacher looks like him!

9781524770846 Sorry, Grown-Ups, You Can’t Go to School! by Christina Geist, illustrated by Tim Bower

In this charming tale of role reversal, Buddy and his sister Lady are ready for school — and so are the grown-ups! Mom, Dad, Grandma, Grandpa, and even the dog are all excited for a fun-filled day of storytime, science experiments, and games. Too bad grown-ups can’t go to school. Only kids and teachers!

9781524771744 Open the Preschool Door by Christopher Santoro

Help your child discover the wonders of preschool with this lift-the-flap board book. Each flap reveals something kids find at school, like a teacher, cubbies, the bathroom, a playground, and more.

9780593435496 Complete Kindergarten Math Workbook by Naoya Imanishi, MEd, illustrated by Gareth Williams

Who knew learning math could be this fun? This official Brightly book is filled with games, activities, challenges, and puzzles, all designed to strengthen your little one’s math skills, all while having fun in the process. This excellent resource is a great way to help build your child’s confidence in math! And don’t forget to pick up the companion title, Addition and Subtraction Kindergarten Math Workbook!

9780823454235 Let’s Be Friends / Seamos Amigos by René Colato Laínez, illustrated by Nomar Perez

In this charming bilingual picture book, two new kindergarten friends realize they have much in common, from their names to their interests. Follow their first year in school in this perfect story for young readers interested in learning to read in English and Spanish, as well as bilingual-speaking families!

9781524790523 Preschool, Here I Come! by David J Steinberg, illustrated by John Joven

The latest book in the Here I Come! series celebrates all of the firsts that preschool holds — from saying goodbye to your parents to learning how to mix colors. Author D.J. Steinberg carefully crafts silly rhymes that your preschooler is sure to enjoy. And for older children, Steinberg has the perfect guide for them too with Kindergarten, Here I Come!

9780593809983 Getting Ready for Kindergarten by Vera Ahiyya, illustrated by Debby Rahmalia

A young girl prepares for her first day of kindergarten with her parents. They pack a lunch and supplies into her backpack, take a picture, and kiss her when she gets on the bus. At school, the girl finds a friendly teacher, new friends, and fun activities to do. This charming picture book will help children feel more confident about their first day of kindergarten!

9780744039474 This Is How We Get Ready by DK

Getting ready for school can be a lot of work! You have to brush your teeth, tie your shoelaces, navigate the holes of a sweater, and more. Luckily, DK has a complete guide to teaching preschoolers all of the skills they need to get ready and make it to school on time. And once they’ve mastered the morning routine, DK’s This Is How We Make Friends is the perfect follow-up to prepare.

9780140562736 Miss Bindergarten Gets Ready for Kindergarten by Joseph Slate, illustrated by Ashley Wolff

This fun rhyming book follows Miss Bindergarten as she sets up her classroom for the 26 new students she will have in her kindergarten class this year. This book is an excellent introduction for young children on what to expect from kindergarten and a fun book for practicing the alphabet.

9781984830524 Rosie Goes to Preschool by Karen Katz

If your child isn’t interested in an adult telling them how school will be, this book is perfect. Rosie, a preschooler herself, offers a little tour of the preschool and the day’s routine in a way that is sweet and informative.

9780593433850 I’m Going to Kindergarten! by Andrea Posner-Sanchez, illustrated by Joanie Stone

When you’re prepping your child for their first day of school, you can’t go wrong with a Little Golden Book. Readers follow an energetic little girl through her first day of kindergarten as she explores the classroom and makes new friends.

9781524766603 The Twelve Days of Preschool by Jenna Lettice, illustrated by Colleen Madden

Little ones can take comfort in knowing what to expect from preschool with this delightful picture book. In the familiar tune of “The Twelve Days of Christmas,” kids count all the new toys they get to play with in school, as well as the importance of sharing them.

9781524740740 The King of Kindergarten by Derrick Barnes, illustrated by Vanessa Brantley Newton

This fun and sweet book features a little boy who can’t wait to start school after his mother tells him he’ll be the King of Kindergarten. From riding in “a big yellow carriage” to “a grand fortress” to taking a “royal rest” at naptime, the boy’s refreshing and joyous approach to the first day of school offers plenty of encouragement for reluctant incoming kindergarteners. Check out the companion book, The Queen of Kindergarten, too!

9780440417996 The Name Jar by Yangsook Choi

As if school wasn’t scary enough, Unhei has just moved to the U.S. from Korea and is worried no one will be able to pronounce her name. So on the first day, she explains to her classmates that she’ll be choosing a new name that week. But can she find a name that fits her better than her own?

9780593305669 Hurry, Little Tortoise, Time for School! by Carrie Finison, illustrated by Erin Kraan

Tiny worry warts will love this endearing and soothing story about a tortoise afraid of showing up late on the first day of school. As all the other (faster) animals dash past her, her worries grow larger. But when she meets her teacher on the way to school, Little Tortoise learns she’s not the only slowpoke around.

9780448454511 The Night Before Preschool by Natasha Wing, illustrated by Amy Wummer

Reading books like The Night Before Preschool and The Night Before Kindergarten are a great way to get your children to open up about their feelings about starting school for the first time. Read the books together and ask them questions to get the conversation started and ease any first day of school jitters.

Editor’s note: This post was originally published in 2015 and updated in 2024.

The post 20 Smart Books To Help Get Your Kids Ready for Preschool or Kindergarten appeared first on Brightly.

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Tougher Than Your Toddler: Robust Lift-the-Flap Books

Fri, 12 Jul 2024 13:00:21 +0000

There’s nothing quite like a brand-new, beautiful lift-the-flap book. And there’s nothing quite as sad as a lift-the-flap book that doesn’t have any flaps left. Those babies and toddlers can be destructive!

These 13 books will stand up to grabby little hands (and stay magical) read after read.

no no 9780756634384 FUN FLAPS: All About Me! by DK

Big flaps + photos of real babies = a book your baby will obsess over. Tiny fingers can easily lift these flaps themselves while learning about hands, feet, face, and other body parts. A great book for baby shower or first birthday gifts.

9780241613115 The Bedtime Bunny Hunt by Beatrix Potter

Peter Rabbit is getting ready for bed … but he can’t find his favorite stuffed animal! Little helpers — who can empathize with Peter — will love lifting up the many flaps in this book to look for Peter’s stuffed bunny. This book is a perfect bedtime read or for any time throughout the day.

9780763647285 Tuck Me In! by Dean Hacohen and Sherry Scharschmidt

What child wouldn’t love getting to be the one who does the tucking in? Invite little readers tuck in the baby animals by turning each blanket-like page to cover each creature up to its chin.

9780593224311 Eric Carle’s Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star and Other Nursery Rhymes by Eric Carle

Dust off your vocal cords! This nursery rhyme collection from the creator of The Very Hungry Caterpillar can endure all the love your toddler gives it. Five popular nursery rhymes with flaps to lift make it the perfect interactive bedtime story.

9781524767785 Open the Garage Door by Christopher Santoro

Lift the flap to reveal a police car, race car, ice cream truck, and more in this interactive board book for car-crazy kids. Bright, colorful illustrations and plenty of flaps to lift make it a popular choice for toddlers that love vehicles.

9780593175033 We Say Hello by Salina Yoon

This delightful board book teaches children how to say “hello” and “goodbye” in seven different languages! Little learners lift a flap to discover a speech bubble with a familiar phrase translated. Look for the companion book, We Say Good Night, for more greeting and parting phrases.

9780241387962 Find Spot at the Library by Eric Hill

Every child needs a few Spot books on their shelf, and this one is an excellent choice. Spot goes to a costume party at the library, where he reads stories and dresses up as his favorite characters. Tiny readers will love hunting through the pages, lifting flaps, and finding the cute yellow dog.

9780744082753 My Very Important Lift-the-Flap Book: Vehicles and Things That Go by DK

Vehicle-loving toddlers can’t get enough of this sturdy board book. Help your little one learn fun facts about cars, trucks, bikes, boats, trains, and much more as they lift the flaps to reveal information and images. Read the companion book, My Very Important Lift-the-Flap Book: Animals for more fun.

9780679844686 Elmo’s Big Lift-and-Look Book (Sesame Street) by Anna Ross, illustrated by Joe Mathieu

Little Elmo fans will love this sturdy interactive board book. Join the Sesame Street gang around the neighborhood and lift the flaps to learn about numbers, shapes, letters, and more. Colorful illustrations and charming characters make it the perfect book for babies and toddlers.

9781664350144 Looking for Mommy by Becky Davies, illustrated by Anna Doherty

This book is almost too cute for words! A little bunny wants a hug from its mother and goes searching for her. Readers help the bunny by lifting flaps and revealing forest animals until they find the mother. It’s the perfect book to read with a little one on your lap.

9781629799483 Hide-and-Seek on the Farm by Highlights

Animals, hidden pictures, and over 40 flaps make this entertaining book a storytime favorite for toddlers. Visit the farm and reveal one fun surprise after another with every page turn. Extra-large sturdy pages and colorful illustrations make it ideal for handsy toddlers.

9780756637590 Eyes, Nose, Toes Peekaboo! by DK

Babies love learning about themselves and seeing pictures of other children. This colorful lift-the-flap book features photos of toddlers pointing out and naming their body parts. Tiny readers will practice finding eyes, ears, fingers, and toes with this interactive book.

9780593093566 Llama Llama Hide & Seek by Anna Dewdney

Llama Llama has lost his beloved stuffie and needs your help to find it. Lift the flaps and look under the bed, in the toy bin, and in the dresser drawers to track down the missing toy and find an extra-special surprise at the end.

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in 2015 and updated in 2025.

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Robust Lift-the-Flap Books appeared first on Brightly.

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13 Stunningly Beautiful New Picture Books

Fri, 17 May 2024 09:00:26 +0000

Sometimes you pick up a picture book for the story, but sometimes it’s the illustrations that grab you — illustrations that make you stop and pause for an extra minute or two to pore every detail and marvel at how stunningly gorgeous they are.

These new picture books do just that. You’ll never tire of looking at these beautiful illustrations, no matter how many times your child wants to read the stories. You might even be tempted to buy a second copy so you can frame some of the art too!

no no 9780593405192 Lost Stick by Anoosha Syed

The author of the popular children’s book That’s Not My Name brings us another adorable book that tickles the heart of any animal lover. Louise loves her dog Milo, and he loves her, too. When Louise throws a fetching stick too far for Milo to find, Milo is determined to retrieve the object to make Louise happy.

9780425290149 Party Rex by Molly Idle

Tea Rex by Molly Idle is my favorite dinosaur children’s book, so I’m delighted to see this adorable follow-up on bookstore shelves. Rex is turning ten and cannot wait to celebrate. Join him at his birthday party with games, cake, and presents!

9781536223200 Back Home: Story Time with My Father by Arlène Elizabeth Casimir, illustrated by Ken Daley

Lune loves listening to the stories her father tells. His words transport her back to where he grew up in Haiti. The stories are filled with emotions, both good and bad, that envelop Lune’s heart. This beautiful book is about family and the bond between fathers and daughters.

9781662640285 Mermaids’ Song to the Sea by Dianna Hutts Aston, illustrated by Renée Kurilla

This picture book is a must-read if you love books that rhyme, things of the sea, and gorgeous illustrations. Three mermaids close out the day by cascading through the ocean and singing blessings to each sea creature, both great and small.

9780593619650 The Artivist by Nikkolas Smith

I love a good picture book showcasing how one person can make a difference. When a young boy combines his talent for art and his knack for activism, he becomes an artivist and creates art to change the world.

9780593462485 Exactly as Planned by Tao Nyeu

Most picture books give one point of view, but I love that you get to read both Moose’s and Fox’s experiences in this reversible story of friendship and spending time together.

9781838749002 Is it a Seed? by Emily Ann Davison, illustrated by Adriena Fong

Two young friends find a seed and use their imaginations to dream up all the things it can become. As it grows, the children’s curiosity and wonder take hold, and their dreams about this single seed bloom into something magical.

9780593176528 What’s Inside A Bird’s Nest? by Rachel Ignotofsky

It’s always fun to find a good non-fiction book that will grasp a child’s attention through text and illustrations. Find out all there is to know about birds, their nests, and eggs with this gorgeous picture book!

9780593708989 The Wild by Yuval Zommer

From the author of the cutest Christmas book, The Tree That’s Meant to Be, comes a wonderfully bright and beautiful environmental story about the Wild. It focuses on everything the earth has given us and how humans can return the favor by caring for the environment.

9781536222517 My Mother’s Tongues by Uma Menon, illustrated by Rahele Jomepour Bell

As the daughter of immigrants, 16-year-old Sumi is amazed at her mother’s ability to switch back and forth between two languages. Throughout this story, Sumi recounts her mother’s immigration story and how she possesses two tongues.

9780593380093 The Spark in You by Andrea Pippins

The Spark in You celebrates being yourself. Your spark shines through your actions and is something others experience when you are your authentic, true self. Full of bright, bold illustrations, this picture book makes an excellent milestone gift.

9781611809916 Weather Any Storm by Zuisei Goddard, illustrated by Paddy Donnelly

Imagine yourself as a ship in the sea. Sometimes getting tossed to and fro, while other times quietly floating along and enjoying the ride. This book does a wonderful job of showing waves of emotions and how to navigate big feelings.

9780593616420 Mamá’s Panza by Isabel Quintero, illustrated by Iliana Galvez

A mamá’s panza is important. It takes care of babies before they are born. And now, Mamá’s panza is the soft place to land when cuddling or feeling nervous. This sweet book celebrates bodies of all shapes and sizes and the connection between mothers and their children.

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in 2016 and was updated in 2024.

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Picture Books appeared first on Brightly.

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