Book Finder

Brian was a normal, shy kid until he discovered a bump on his head which grows into a horn: a unicorn horn. When Brian’s best friend Avery is sucked up in an evil vortex, Brian must summon the courage to save him! Though fantastic, themes of friendship, bravery and self-confidence emerge in what is likely the first book in a new series about Unicorn Boy. 

When Žana and Vedrana come for the summer, 11-year-old Amra begins to heal after her brother’s death. For three summers the girls enjoy dancing, clothing, even boys. But the shadow of ethnic war looms. The author’s story continues in her powerful young adult memoir, The Cat I Never Named (opens in a new window) which delves deeper into the Bosnian War in the 1990s. 

Join this “mysterious FACTopia tour…” to encounter top secrets, unsolved mysteries, dark caves, deep ocean dwellers, hidden history, and more. Lots more! Photographs and comical illustrations combine for an intriguing, fact-based jaunt through time and places.

Safiyyah studies old maps in the library of the Grand Mosque of Paris. Change happens quickly when the Nazi’s invade the city. Safiyyah, her family, and other Muslims work to save their Jewish neighbors from the horror that is starting. Inspired by the true story of how the Grand Mosque of Paris saved the lives of hundreds of Jews during World War II, this little-known piece of history is compelling and presented in rich language. An author’s note describes the background.

Brief language and simple illustrations in comic book format ask readers to consider their everyday world in fresh and new ways. Short poems and sly humor abound in this creative approach.

Unbeknownst to his family, Theo wants to become a police officer unlike the rest of his family who are, well, thieves. Each family member is described and depicted throughout in exaggerated illustrations equal to the over-the-top humor in this readable, slightly irreverent novel.

Become a keen nature observer: an observologist! Cartoon-like illustrations and open text resemble a journal, inviting readers to look closely at the small things around them.

Can a road trip to odd places, with a bit of adventure and a touch of friendship help Pia heal from the loss of her brother and her family problems? This poignant story told in graphic format is visually delightful, both sad and humorous.

Handsome graphics accompany crisp text in this thorough exploration of insects, their sizes, and fascinating facts about them. The suggestions on what to do to protect insects are doable. Additional resources and an author’s note are included.  

Imagination and science combine in gloriously detailed illustrations and descriptive poems for a unique look at what various creatures call home. Additional information about the animals and other resources conclude this memorable book.

Aaliyah’s dad takes her on a trip to the Bronx where she discovers the roots of rap and many foundational artists. An interview with the cofounder of the Hip-Hop Education Center and hip-hop timeline are included. As in other books in the History Comics series, this title combines information and imagination for an engaging look at the topic.

As a girl, Rachel Carson did not realize that she would influence so many to respect and protect the natural world. Lyrical verse, gracefully illustrated, fictionalizes Carson’s life and relationships with her family and others.

Many animals are extinct — but not only is there a great deal that can be done to stop continued extinction, new creatures continue to be discovered. Handsome, detailed illustrations combine with brief narrations just right for dipping in and out. Done in collaboration with the Smithsonian, the book includes additional information and resources.

Travel across the U.S. and meet some kids where they live. This carefully crafted and well-researched introduction introduces individuals who live in different places but share a great deal in common. A companion volume to the author’s This is How We Do It: One Day in the Lives of Seven Kids from Around the World (opens in a new window).

Humans could learn a great deal from ants and in fact share many things with humans. They live in families, have different jobs, and do better when they work together. Humorous (bug-eyed) ants and lighthearted text introduce these fascinating critters. 

“Time to make art? Hmm…” begins this engaging exploration of what art is, isn’t, and could be. Childlike illustrations are used to ask and answer questions while introducing a wide range of art and styles from around the world. Brief information about the art and artists concludes this dynamic look at human creativity.

Tardigrades, also known as “moss piglets” or “water bears”, are highly adaptable and durable microscopic creatures. Depicted here as (almost) adorable bug-eyed critters whose mother sets them out to seek their fortune, readers will share an adventure with a large, hairy wolf spider while gaining information about these tiny, eight-legged animals.

Henry decides to share his love of dancing at the school talent show. A sweet, easier-to-read book just right for newly independent readers. Also available in Spanish: Las muestra de talentos (opens in a new window). Look for other titles in the Confetti Kids series.

From congas to triangle, travel the world through many musical instruments, including voice. The author and illustrator intentionally developed this book to help discovery through sight through lighthearted line illustrations and sound via QR codes that showcase each specific sound with a final musical composition by the author.

From an abandoned empty lot that Nevaeh called haunted, Mr. Tony and the kids from PS175 transform it into a lush garden that produces food to share. Childlike illustrations complement the gradual transformation. An author’s note includes information about Harlem Grown, the community nonprofit, as well as steps to start a garden.

Join children as they enjoy each month, the change of seasons, and the pleasures it brings. Short, rhythmic poems are sure to engage as readers view the simple, colorful illustrations for a satisfying look at a year of changes.

For young José growing up in Spain, cooking “wasn’t just” about food, it was about people. Starting small, his work led to his establishing an NGO to help feed those in need. A fluid narration and lush illustrations present this renowned chef. Backmatter concludes this hopeful, brief biography. Also available in Spanish: Un plato de esperanza (opens in a new window).

Aspiring pilots and airplane enthusiasts will enjoy the brief, clearly illustrated introduction to the many types and uses of planes. Similarly, sturdy pages are used in the companion volume, Helena Harštová’s Submarines (opens in a new window) for children interested in sea explorations (from the All Aboard! series).

Orris, a grumpy rat happily lives alone in a barn until one evening a small owl becomes trapped and calls out for help. Can Orris trust an owl, a rat’s sworn enemy? Orris does the right thing, freeing the small white owl. Timble flies off but returns with a butterscotch to thank Orris. And thus begins their friendship in a sweetly told and illustrated novel.