Staff Picks

Different: A Story of the Spanish Civil War

by Monica Montanes

With Francisco Franco in charge in Spain anyone who was different was in danger. Anyone who had fought for freedom had to flee the country. Different is told through the voices of seven-year-old Socorro and nine-year-old Paco who are siblings. Because their father had to escape Spain because of his political beliefs, the family must hide the truth and keep secrets in order to survive. They can’t ask for more food or better treatment because someone might find out why their father isn’t home anymore. After 8 years a letter finally arrives from the father reuniting them in Venezuela. Different is based on the author’s family history.  

Recommended by: Joan Stoiber, Youth Services Reference Librarian 

Posted in: Youth Fiction

Buzzing

by Samuel Sattin

Thoughts can overtake us sometimes but for Isaac his thoughts and worries never leave. He is constantly at war with his “buzzing” thoughts. Being diagnosed with OCD at such an early age has left him feeling very lonely, especially with his mom monitoring his every move. One day he is approached by a group of kids inviting him to be a part of their ”Swamps & Sorcery” group.  And he’s felt so much better now that the bees aren’t bothering him so much but does his mom approve of his new friends and hobbies?

Recommended by: Ayla Franco, Youth Services Assistant

Posted in: Young Adult Fiction

Not My Problem

by Ciara Smyth

Not My Problem by Ciara Smyth is about high school student, Aideen, solving everyone else’s problems instead of her own. She has problems at home, problems at school, problems with friends, but when her best friend’s arch nemesis, Meabh Kowalski, propositions her with an unconventional way to help others, she can’t resist. Aideen means well, and she’s hilarious, but her business model could use some fine tuning. Through a series of mishaps and close calls, Aideen starts to make real friends, try at school, and even develops a crush. Fans of Becky Albertalli and Alice Oseman will be sure to love this one!

This book is available in the library and on Hoopla as an ebook.

Recommended by: Erin Cady, Youth Services Reference Librarian

Posted in: Young Adult Fiction

A Year of Good News

by Martin Smatana

Posted in: Youth Nonfiction

Wonka

by Sibeal Pounder

Posted in: Youth Fiction

1913: Seeds of Conflict

Posted in: Adult Nonfiction, Documentary

Transmogrify!: 14 Fantastical Tales of Trans Magic

Embark on a magical journey featuring 14 tales of Trans and Non-Binary characters written by Trans and Non-Binary authors! Each protagonist beautifully embraces what it is to be one’s true self and to love everyone despite the differences. The Anthology is written wonderfully with characters who are relatable and inclusive. Great for fans of Cemetery Boys and The Witch King!

Recommended by: Ayla Franco, Youth Services Assistant

Posted in: Young Adult Fiction

Tiger Daughter

by Rebecca Lim

Tiger Daughter is a middle grade novel about immigration, mental health, family, and feeling like the cultural other. Students Wen Zhou and Henry Xiao dream of going to a special academy to study but there are language barriers, patriarchy, and a death in the family in their way. Read it to find out what happens.

This book is available at the library and on OverDrive/Libby as an ebook and e-audiobook.

Recommended by: Jackie Boyd, Communications Manager

Posted in: Youth Fiction

Frontera

by Julio Anta

Mateo, an undocumented immigrant teenager, embarks on a dangerous journey across the Sonoran desert to cross the border to the United States and seek the opportunities he once thought he had within reach. Strong willed and often defiant, he risks his safety multiple times along the way.  With determination and the crucial guidance of an unexpected new ghostly friend, he overcomes survival perils and some emotional struggles that many face on such a voyage. In this first graphic novel, Anta and Salcedo visually provide readers a captivating glimpse of the migratory trek many undertake through the hostile and deadly borderland territories. The artwork captures the natural beauty, as well as the desolation of the journey. Guillermo’s supernatural presence adds some historical context to the story in regards to the adversity and predicaments of the immigrant experience.

Recommended by: Fanny Camargo, Youth Services Reference Librarian I

Posted in: Young Adult Fiction

Treaty Words: For As Long As the Rivers Flow

by Aimee Craft

Treaty Words: For As Long As the Rivers Flow by Aimee Craft, illustrated by Luke Swinson, is a beautiful look at the Indigenous culture. A grandfather and his granddaughter spend time together in nature appreciating their relationship with each other, their culture, and the earth. It is a short story with colorful art on every page so it will appeal to children of all ages, either reading independently or aloud. It would be a wonderful way to start a conversation about Native American heritage and caring for the environment. The author’s note at the end adds context and could provoke further research.

Recommended by: Erin Cady, Youth Services Reference Librarian

Posted in: Youth Fiction