CHILDREN'S
Released: Jan. 1, 2011
"Frequently hysterical dialogue, a hugely sympathetic protagonist and a baroque concatenation of magics and counter-magics will keep readers glued to this smart, earthy and thoughtful tale. (Fantasy. 10-14)"
CHILDREN'S
Released: Jan. 3, 2011
"An incandescent, important work. (Poetry. 8 & up)"
CHILDREN'S
Released: Jan. 4, 2011
"John Steptoe Award–winning debut, The Rock and the River (2009). (Fiction. 8-14)"
Ella and Zachary, sixth-grade misfits, cling to each other to get through the taunts, rejection and, sometimes, abuse from their classmates.
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CHILDREN'S
Released: Jan. 11, 2011
"Expressive black-and-white spot art heightens the drama. (Animal fantasy. 8-12)"
Unexpectedly cast into alien territory, an inquisitive mouse discovers the world's an amazing place in this classic home-away-home tale.
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CHILDREN'S
Released: Jan. 11, 2011
"Quiet winter wonders. (Picture book. 1-5)"
Falling snow and bare branches herald winter to everyone, including a rabbit who watches geese flying south, bears hibernating, turtles paddling to warm waters, sheep huddling, squirrels stacking acorns, deer foraging, frogs submerging and mice tunneling.
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CHILDREN'S
Released: Jan. 18, 2011
"Lengthier accounts of travel on the Underground Railroad abound, but few if any portray the experience with such compelling immediacy. (afterword) (Picture book. 5-9)"
Powerfully expressive imagery will sweep young viewers into this suspenseful journey along the Underground Railroad.
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CHILDREN'S
Released: Feb. 1, 2011
"Refreshing, captivating, elegant and witty. (Picture book. 3-7)"
CHILDREN'S
Released: Feb. 1, 2011
"This is a treasure for teachers and animal lovers alike. (Informational picture book. 5-9)"
From big, beautiful tigers to the lowly partula snail, the stunning illustrations in this album of endangered species accompany a familiar message: Human actions change the world in ways that affect many other species.
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CHILDREN'S
Released: Feb. 1, 2011
"Be prepared to blast off; this debut is truly out of this world. (Graphic science fiction. 9-12)"
A headstrong young girl makes a hasty decision and finds herself in a galaxy far, far away in this graphic-novel shining star.
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CHILDREN'S
Released: Feb. 8, 2011
Intelligent, richly detailed fantasy featuring two young cousins battered by losses, personal passions and larger events.
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CHILDREN'S
Released: Feb. 8, 2011
"A stunning look at an equally stunning lady. (bibliography, Internet resources, source notes, index) (Nonfiction. 8-12)"
CHILDREN'S
Released: Feb. 22, 2011
"In her not-to-be-missed debut, Lai evokes a distinct time and place and presents a complex, realistic heroine whom readers will recognize, even if they haven't found themselves in a strange new country. (Historical fiction/verse. 9-12)"
An enlightening, poignant and unexpectedly funny novel in verse is rooted in the author's childhood experiences.
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CHILDREN'S
Released: March 1, 2011
"Unfolding with the implacable clarity of the natural world Louise reveres, the novel proves that a quiet story can be as gripping as the busiest action-packed narrative—and with more staying power. (Fiction. 8-12)"
This spare, lovely novel concerns that moment in childhood, at once universal and utterly lonely, when one is forced to recognize that all life is mortal.
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CHILDREN'S
Released: March 1, 2011
"Wonderful! (Picture book. 4-8)"
Once again, Caldecott Honoree Lehman (The Red Book, 2004) presents surprising visuals that playfully and mysteriously connect children across space and time.
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CHILDREN'S
Released: March 1, 2011
"Appealing, unique and not to be missed. (Picture book. 5-10)"
CHILDREN'S
Released: March 8, 2011
"Gorey kids. (Picture book/poetry. 8 & up)"
CHILDREN'S
Released: March 8, 2011
"New format, new look, same "Aw, shucks" story, art and characters. (Picture book. 2-5)"
Graphic novelist Runton trades off page count for picture-book-bright hues and tones in his first all-color Owly story.
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CHILDREN'S
Released: March 8, 2011
"A gloriously warm celebration. (Picture book. 5-9)"
With clarity and deep affection, Yaccarino turns his family history into a story of enduring charm.
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CHILDREN'S
Released: March 16, 2011
"Children and parents keen to explore technological interactivity will delight in recalling the infinite possibilities of the picture book. (Picture book. 3-8)"
CHILDREN'S
Released: March 29, 2011
"A visual and thematic stunner. (author's note, bibliography) (Picture book. 4-11)"
More than a heartwarming portrait of Chile's most revered poet, this splendid tribute to Pablo Neruda animates his global appeal with a visceral immediacy capable of seducing readers of any age.
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CHILDREN'S
Released: April 5, 2011
"Backmatter includes a pithy biography, additional photographs and a letter and drawing from Jane herself—children will thrill at the connection. (Picture book/biography. 2-10)"
Little Jane Goodall and Jubilee (her toy chimpanzee) ramble outside their English country home observing everyday animal miracles and dreaming of a life in Africa, "living with, / and helping, / all animals."
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CHILDREN'S
Released: April 5, 2011
"By the end of this tale, replete with allusions to Our Town, Doug realizes he's pretty happy in Marysville, where holding hands with the green-eyed girl—and a first kiss—rival whatever might be happening on the moon. (Historical fiction. 10-14)"
CHILDREN'S
Released: April 5, 2011
"Quotes from Jane augment this inspiring book, encouraging young people to join her as dutiful watchers of the world. (author's note) (Picture book/biography. 2-10)"
Economical art and language produce a fully fleshed-out biography of Jane Goodall, tracing her early years as a watcher of English fauna to her adult work as scholar of animal behavior in Africa.
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CHILDREN'S
Released: April 11, 2011
"An irresistible invitation to test those wings and fly. (Picture book. 4-8)"
To fly or not to fly is the question for a little bird weighing the pros and cons of launching into the unknown.
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CHILDREN'S
Released: April 11, 2011
"Overall, it lives up to the standards set by others in this stellar series. (maps, resources, glossary, author's note, index) (Nonfiction. 10-14)"
This latest addition to an always-intriguing series describes the work of Fernando Rosas, John Reynolds and Lucy Keith studying manatees in different parts of the world.
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CHILDREN'S
Released: April 19, 2011
"With universal themes of life and death, friendship and respect for the natural world, this is still quite particular, a powerfully memorable story of a boy's grief and determination to keep a promise. (Fiction. 9-13)"
Striving to protect the osprey nesting on his family's farm in Scotland, 11-year-old Callum McGregor watches the bird throughout summer, uses a computer to follow her migration to Africa and sets in motion a remarkable chain of events.
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CHILDREN'S
Released: May 1, 2011
"Stunning. (Picture book/poetry. 8 & up)"
The Myers team shares their heartfelt and stirring vision of an America flawed but filled with promises and dreams.
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CHILDREN'S
Released: May 1, 2011
"Together words and pictures create an utterly engaging picture-book experience—eye-catching, thought-provoking and just plain fun. (Picture book. 4-7)"
CHILDREN'S
Released: May 1, 2011
"Look for more twists than a pretzel factory and a possible sequel. (Superhero fantasy. 11-14)"
The author who made a splash with The Big Splash (2008) takes the "costumed superheroes" genre out for a joyride, and anyone who comes along will never read comics the same way again.
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CHILDREN'S
Released: May 1, 2011
"Both solid introduction and exhortation, this book will thrill budding artists. (glossary, author's note, bibliography, lists of museums and paintings) (Picture book/biography. 5-9)"
A simple picture-book biography of Diego Rivera concentrates on his artistic career and encourages children to imagine themselves painting their own world.
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CHILDREN'S
Released: May 1, 2011
"A lush and intelligent opener for a topical eco-fantasy series. (Fantasy. 9-13)"
Nature and science in a vivid Cape Cod setting create layers of meaning as 13-year-old Cara and her brothers confront the puzzle of their mother's disappearance.
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CHILDREN'S
Released: May 10, 2011
"Both tender and insightful, this well-crafted, fast-paced tale should have wide teen appeal. (notes on form) (Poetry. 10-16)"
From the award-winning Frost comes a wildly imaginative, thought-provoking novel in verse that centers on the unlikely friendship that arises between two teenage girls as a result of an accidental kidnapping.
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CHILDREN'S
Released: May 24, 2011
"Not all young readers will have experienced a blackout, but this engaging snapshot could easily have them wishing for one. (Picture book. 5-8)"
CHILDREN'S
Released: May 24, 2011
"If ever a new series deserved to go viral, this one does. (Graphic novel. 7-9)"
CHILDREN'S
Released: June 1, 2011
"Inventive, animated and irresistible. (Picture book. 3-6)"
Harry and Horsie return to battle a giant, cookie-eating robot in this winning tale that will satisfy sweet tooth and thrill-seeker alike.
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CHILDREN'S
Released: June 9, 2011
"The story recalls Lloyd Alexander at his wry, humane best; readers will be happy for every moment they spend at castle Hladka Hvorka. (Fantasy. 10-14)"
Noted Native American storyteller and author Bruchac turns to the Slovakian side of his family heritage to produce an entirely fresh and funny fantasy.
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CHILDREN'S
Released: June 14, 2011
"A winning recipe blending crispy verse and fresh photography: Go team! (Picture book. 3-7)"
CHILDREN'S
Released: July 19, 2011
"Neither a story with a plot nor a full-blown memoir, this brief look at a town suspended in time resonates with happiness and could spark some children to reflect on their own idyllic summers in a new way. (map, author's note) (Picture book/memoir. 7-10)"
Intriguing pictures full of small details bring alive the sights, smells, sounds, tastes and textures of a small Sardinian town in the 1950s.
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CHILDREN'S
Released: Aug. 1, 2011
"Amazing. (Picture book. 4-8)"
Young's latest attempts to be many things--a foray into a child's imagination, a touching tale of siblings and a stage for the author's elaborate paper sculptures--and it succeeds masterfully in doing all three.
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CHILDREN'S
Released: Aug. 1, 2011
"This captivating interpretation creates a remarkable partner for Noah, who uses her special talent in a memorable way. (Picture book. 3-7)"
The animals march along two by two in most Noah's Ark stories, but Noah's partner is often missing altogether. In this unusual interpretation of one of the most popular Bible stories, it's Noah's wife who is the star as she sings the arkful of animals to sleep.
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CHILDREN'S
Released: Aug. 1, 2011
" "
In her first outing for children, Saller (
The Subversive Copy Editor, 2009) provides a poignant look at boyhood before and during the long years of World War II.
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CHILDREN'S
Released: Aug. 2, 2011
"An enticing read that is certain to keep both the hero and audience guessing at every carefully plotted reveal. (Fantasy. 9-12)"
A truly splendid amalgamation of mystery, magic and creeping horror will spellbind the middle-grade set.
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CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 1, 2011
"A tricky, magical delight. (author's note) (Fiction. 8-12)"
Treading water in her last term of elementary school, Julie figures she's learned all there is to learn, when two Mongolian brothers in fur-lined coats (it's summer) arrive: Chingis and Nergui.
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CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 1, 2011
"Sometimes snail mail is just better. Here's proof. (Picture book. 5-7)"
Bestrewing lined sheets with crayon drawings, Polaroids, smudges, a ketchup packet (not a real one) and other signs of affection, a mouseling writes a newsy love note to her Grandmouse.
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CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 1, 2011
"Aesthetically superb; this will fascinate comics readers and budding artists while creating new Say fans. (author's note) (Graphic memoir. 10 & up)"
Exquisite drawings, paintings, comics and photographs balance each other perfectly as they illustrate Say's childhood path to becoming an artist.
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CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 6, 2011
"Heroic deeds, narrow escapes, dastardly villains, amazing coincidences and a family rich in love and hope are all part of an intricate and endlessly entertaining adventure. Terrific! (Historical fiction. 10-14) "
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 13, 2011
"Characteristically provocative gothic comedy, with sublime undertones. (Autobiographical fiction. 11-13)"
An exhilarating summer marked by death, gore and fire sparks deep thoughts in a small-town lad not uncoincidentally named "Jack Gantos."
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CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 13, 2011
"Visually stunning, completely compelling, Wonderstruck demonstrates a mastery and maturity that proves that, yes, lightning can strike twice. (Historical fiction. 9 & up)"
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 15, 2011
"A big, serious work of historical investigation and imagination; the tale has never before been told this well. (Historical fiction. 9-14) "
It was a secret everybody knew at Monticello: Thomas Jefferson was the father of Beverly, Harriet, Madison and Eston Hemings, and their mother was Sally Hemings, a slave owned by Jefferson.
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CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 15, 2011
"Delicate and durable, visually sophisticated yet friendly: simply exquisite. (Picture book. 3-7)"
Breathtakingly beautiful meta-illustrations will draw many eyes to this tale of a curious chicken who spills some paint.
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