Harper Collins

The mysterious delivery of a suitcase triggered to open at midnight launches our hero Amari into Junior Agent try-outs at the Bureau of Supernatural Affairs, and us readers into an intricate all-new magical system. The racism and classism faced by Amari in middle school have parallels in this fantastical world created by #ownvoices debut author B. B. Alston, but Amari has been training for these challenges her whole life. Quick, read this first book in a new trilogy! —Michelle

Perfect for whodunnit aficionados, the newest Swanson novel is a fast-paced, gripping meta-thriller with a great premise: a mystery bookseller's list of perfect literary murders is being executed book by book, and now the FBI comes a-knocking. But how exactly would one recreate The ABC Murders or The Secret History—and to what end? And what is it about the quiet, lonely protagonist Malcolm that makes someone want to dedicate a half dozen killings to him? — Ksenia

Young adults have a unique perspective on the experience and reality of immigration. Their stories come to life in this remarkable anthology. My eyes were opened to insights new to me as each unique voice told a different story. The diverse group of talented authors evoked a range of emotions that lingered. Each story imparted a valuable lesson, leaving a distinct impression on me. This is a rich and rewarding book, well suited for YA and adults readers alike. — Trey

Justin A. Reynolds has created a lovely modern- day fairy tale of friendship and family and finding the most perfect moments in life in the midst of grief. With the same real-world heart as those of Nicola Yoon, Reynolds’ characters are real and likeable, as are their connections, which evoke the friendships of John Green’s books. The brilliant days they create for each other in the face of loss filled me with the same fun and joy the characters themselves embrace.  — Jocelyn

Susan is searching for the identity of her father and knows London is the place to start. Before truly beginning, she’s drawn into the whirlwind world of the electrifying Merlin (no, not that Merlin) and his strange family of booksellers, who keep the world of goblins and fae in balance. This madcap adventure with unparalleled world building kept me guessing at every step. The Left-Handed Booksellers of London deserves a place on the shelf with Neil Gaiman and Diana Wynne Jones.
— Ivy
 

Newbery medalist Jerry Craft does it again. This companion to New Kid focuses on Jordan as well his friend Drew who, unlike light-skinned Jordan, faces othering based in colorism. How Craft takes serious subject matter and makes it hilarious remains a mystery to me, but I was literally laughing out loud while reading, just like I did with New Kid. A great choice for fans of the first installment, school stories, socially conscious books, and those who—like me—love to laugh! — Stephanie

This is the perfect fall read, arriving just in time for Halloween but great for any time of year! Fantasy lovers will immediately devour Zita’s journey from neglected orphan to powerful magic user. Zita is fierce and determined, with a big heart, and no matter what any devious witches and wizards say, there is much more power in being kind than there is in darkness and cruelty. I hope to see more from this little Sparrow! — Jae

Beloved author-illustrator and three-time Caldecott medalist Kevin Henkes continues to delight readers with his masterful ability to take a few words and a few shapes and create an utterly wonderful story. Young and old readers alike will find this book charming and discover something new each time they read it. This is a book children will request again and again—and that adults won’t tire of reading! — Kathy

From climbing the highest mountain in the Pyrenees at the age of 5 to scaling Mount Everest unaided twice in one week at 3, Kilian Jornet has lived an extreme life, and in his memoir, Above the Clouds, he chronicles the ups and downs of his journey. Told in a humble voice, Jornet’s memoir is an engrossing read for amateur adventurers and those who are enticed by the concept of sky running but are unaware of what it actually entails. — Aric

A wild and creative twist on the superhero trope. Who inflicts more damage on society, superheroes or the supervillains they fight? Anna is a hench, a temp worker for low-level supervillains. After becoming a victim of superhero mayhem, she uses her data-analysis skills to fight back. What ensues is a battle royale, with twists and turns aplenty. This is a fun, cinematic novel set in a comic book universe, unlike anything else you've ever read.  
— Trey