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The story of Blind Willie Johnson — the legendary Texas musician whose song “Dark Was the Night” was included on the Voyager I space probe’s Golden Record. There, along with the many sounds and sights of planet Earth, is the stirring song of a blind man, telling us not to be afraid of the dark, and reminding us that we are never really alone.

Holly loves doing experiments and learning new things in science class! But when she finds out the next experiment is making slime, she’s worried. Slime is made with glue, and glue is sticky. Holly has sensory issues because of her autism and doesn’t like anything sticky! With help from family and her teacher, Holly receives the accommodations and encouragement she needs to give slime a try.

A powerful story about the extraordinary mind of a young nonverbal girl with autism, her passion for space exploration, and the bond between sisters.

Tally is smart, compassionate, and she has a superpower: autism. Inspired by young coauthor Libby Scott’s own experiences with autism, this is an honest and moving middle-school story of friends, family, and finding one’s place.

This story, written in free-verse poetry, begins with one Texas family learning about their freedom, leaving the sweltering cotton fields, and going to celebrate with a whole community on a cool beach at night. Beautiful watercolor illustrations and extra historical information at the end.

Dale Chihuly’s dramatic sculptures made of blown glass have been widely exhibited. His life and work as an innovative glass artist are presented in a highly visual, informative presentation. Stunning color photographs of individual pieces as well as large installations are used to convey the power of glass sculpture.

Set in a futuristic fictionalized Thailand, run by a powerful Governor, Pong has spent his life in prison. He escapes but is pursued by Nok, the Warden’s daughter. Themes seen in Victor Hugo’s Les Misérables are freshly presented in a wholly original setting and vivid period in this riveting and accessible novel.

Middle school is never easy but 7th grade becomes particularly tough for Ross when he’s diagnosed with a rare form of eye cancer. In spite of his best friend preparing to move and being bullied for the effect of the grueling cancer treatment, Ross finds power in music and friendship — and discovers something about his nemesis. This uplifting, often humorous novel is based on the author’s experience.

Ryan Hart finds ways to make sunshine even when she’s not happy about moving to a smaller house, selling the family car, and the other changes life brings. But her name means “king” and so she must lead. Lead she does in this contemporary, realistic and engaging novel just right for fans of Beverly Cleary’s Ramona Quimby.

They communicate, play, use tools, and sometimes even fight. Find out how different animals behave in this well-organized, engaging, and educational look at animal behavior. Illustrations complement the accessible text on each double-page spread. A glossary and additional resources are included.

After the death of Hanna’s mother, she and her father head to the Dakota Territory looking to start anew. But can a girl with a Chinese mother and a white father overcome the odds against them? The Newbery Medalist again presents rich historical fiction with an afterword that describes the genesis of this powerful story.

Two distinctive artists are presented in a similar formats but each illustrated in a style that reflects the times when each artist lived. Original work by the artist is integrated into the narrative to add context. Paintings and source notes conclude these appealing and attractive introductions to art and artists. The second title is Portrait of an Artist: Claude Monet: Discover the Artist Behind the Masterpieces (opens in a new window) by Lucy Brownridge, illustrated by Caroline Bonne-Müller.

From the Atmosdragon to the Oblivionped, the Earth is in grave danger. Science and folkloric creature are creatively integrated in this call to action. Attractive and accessible, “monster cards” add a game-like quality as well as a way to compare impact. Source notes and index are included.

He’s small, a bit rough around the edges but he’s got a big heart and big friends. Meet Bob of dubious heritage; “…some Chihuahua, with a smidgen of Papillon…”  His best friends are a gorilla named Ivan, a small elephant named Ruby, and a girl named Julia. The sequel to the Newbery-winning book, The One and Only Ivan (opens in a new window), this new story can stand alone with its unique verve and charm. Spot illustrations and a glossary of dog terms add humor and emotion.

There’s only one president at a time. And they could come from anywhere. “When George Washington became the first president of the United States, there were nine future presidents alive.” This unique approach to U.S. Presidents is illustrated to highlight chronology but is sure to encourage all that the next president could currently be “listening, learning, and getting ready to lead.”

Magical mayhem begins when Emily goes in search of her parents, finding instead an alternate London. Today’s London is in danger from the “other” London, and protected by an enchantment in which both parents play a part. This is a funny, fast, and accessible fantasy.

Lots of things happen all over the world every day. Have you ever considered what one small second of time can hold? What would happen in a minute? An hour? Colorful, bold graphic illustrations punctuate the statistics cited with sources noted at the end. The eye-popping numbers and images are sure to ignite wonder if not curiosity.

Donte and his brother are biracial; their mother is Black, their father is white. They attend the same wealthy suburban school but have very different experiences there. Donte is dark-skinned but his brother appears white. How Donte gains a sense of sense of self and beats the bully at his own game is compelling and timely.

A mother and daughter look forward to their special Saturday routine together every single week. But this Saturday, one thing after another goes wrong. The up-and-down journey that reminds them of what’s best about Saturdays: precious time together.

A boy is not happy about moving but while exploring his new home, he finds a large roll top desk. There he discovers imaginative, surprising stories. The Argentinian author/illustrator has created a memorable fantasy juxtaposing the real world and extraordinary adventures held in the found journal. Surreal illustrations are presented in sequential art, calling to mind a graphic novel.

The prophecy has come true: the black snake has come to terrorize the community. It hurts the source of life, water. This call to action is presented by in word and image by an author and illustrator, Ojibwe and Tlingit/Haida respectively, based on the Dakota Pipeline access protest in Standing Rock reservation. Lush, flowing illustrations and a narration by a young Native girl make a compelling case for protection, encouraging readers to sign a water protector pledge.

Emily Dickinson came to understand the world through what she could see and through words which she communicated through poetry. Lyrical language infused with Emily’s poems combines with translucent illustrations to reflect her world. Backmatter completes this handsome, informative package.

There are two sides to everything, including animals. Creatures like black cats, vampire bats, Tasmanian devils, and a host of other animals often have bad reputations — but there is another side! Explore both in an an open format with humorous illustrations. A glossary is included.

Can rescue dog, McTavish, help his Peachy family with vacation plans? His human family needs his guidance and patience — again. Whether revisiting the Peachys (Good Dog, McTavish (opens in a new window)) or meeting them for the first time, this charming, recognizable family is sure to charm readers of all ages.