There’s no better way to take shelter from the April showers than to curl up on the couch and explore a new story. We’ve rounded up five of the latest kids’ books to keep young readers entertained (and dry) this spring. Whether it’s an early morning exploration or a battle against an ancient curse, there’s a story for every blossoming visionary to enjoy.
Before the World Wakes by Estelle Laure tells the tale of two siblings who venture outside at daybreak. With illustrations by Paola Zakimi, this picture book captures the quiet magic of early morning as brother and sister marvel at the gentle creatures moving around them. Readers ages 3-7 will revel in this story’s lyrical language and beautiful art, but more importantly, learn to appreciate the importance of small moments and the special bond of siblings.
Aru Shah and the Nectar of Immortality is the fifth and final installation of the Pandava book series from best-selling author Rick Riordan. The quintet follows 12-year-old Aru Shah, who accidentally unlocks an ancient Indian curse, the Sleeper, in an effort to ward off teasing classmates. Now, Aru and her friends must stop the Sleeper from accessing the nectar of immortality — a potion that would grant him infinite powers. Kids ages 8-13 can embark on this nail-biting adventure and come face-to-face with gods, demons, and celestial weapons as Aru is prompted with a difficult decision.
It’s the End of the World and I’m in my Bathing Suit proves that, despite what parents have to say about it, chores are quite literally the end of the world. In this book, Justin A. Reynolds tells the story of 12-year-old Eddie Gordon Holloway, who gets himself into trouble with his mom after scheming to avoid laundry. The night of the highly anticipated Beach Bash, Eddie is forced to swap seaside with spin cycle after being subjected to a night of laundry for his misdeeds. However, the power goes out mid-wash, and when Eddie journeys outside — in his glow-in-the-dark swim trunks — him and a few other neighborhood kids quickly learn they might be the only people left … anywhere.
Unfadeable is a heartfelt and genuine story about community, family, and the power of Black Girl Magic. Maurice Broadus introduces middle-grade readers to Bella “Unfadeable” Fades, an unhoused, tween graffiti artist determined to save her community. Though Bella plans on laying low this summer, she quickly becomes involved in efforts to stop powerful people in her Indianapolis neighborhood from defunding the Land. Readers can join Bella as she learns the importance of trust and the value of community in the face of corruption.
River is the first installation of Erin Hunter’s Warriors: A Starless Clan series. A dark age has given way to an era of peace in the five Warrior clans. But peace does not mean the absence of responsibility — and medicine cat apprentice Frostpaw looks eagerly towards the horizon for the day she can serve her RiverClan. Unbeknownst to her, this day comes sooner than anticipated, and readers ages 8-12 can follow these feline friends on their awaiting adventures.
All of these books are available for purchase now on Amazon or local bookstores!
