Red Fern Booksellers
Shelf Awareness has unveiled its 2024 Best Children's and Young Adult Books list, showcasing a diverse selection of captivating reads for young readers. The list features something for every age group, from historical biographies to imaginative adventures.
Books for Early Readers
Early readers can dive into compelling nonfiction titles like Everywhere Beauty Is Harlem: The Vision of Photographer Roy DeCarava by Gary Golio and E.B. Lewis, which highlights the life of an artistic collaborator of Langston Hughes. Another standout is Guts for Glory: The Story of Civil War Soldier Rosetta Wakeman by JoAnna Lapati, recounting the inspiring story of a young woman who fought for the Union during the Civil War.
Fictional tales also shine, including Millie Fleur's Poison Garden by Christy Mandin, a mysterious story about poisonous plants, and Viewfinder by Christine D.U. Chung and Salwa Majoka, a visual treat that encourages exploration.
Middle-Grade Picks
Middle-grade readers can immerse themselves in magical realms and historical journeys. The Juneteenth Cookbook: Recipes and Activities for Kids and Families to Celebrate by Alliah L. Agostini and Taffy Elrod offers a fun mix of cooking and culture. Meanwhile, Amil and the After by Veera Hiranandani explores themes of time travel and personal discovery.
Other top titles include Impossible Creatures by Katherine Rundell, illustrated by Ashley Mackenzie, and The First State of Being by Erin Entrada Kelly, offering imaginative tales filled with wonder and adventure.
Young Adult Selections
The young adult category features stories blending magical realism, historical accounts, and graphic novels. Flamboyants: The Queer Harlem Renaissance I Wish I'd Known by George M. Johnson, illustrated by Charly Palmer, presents an evocative reimagining of Harlem's cultural explosion.
Also notable is Pick the Lock by A.S. King, a gripping mystery, and Lunar New Year Love Story by Gene Luen Yang, illustrated by LeUyen Pham, a heartfelt romantic adventure. Twenty-Four Seconds from Now...: A LOVE Story by Jason Reynolds explores love and time in a powerful narrative.
Readers can explore full reviews of these top selections on Shelf Awareness's website. The Best Adult Books list will be announced on December 20, promising more literary treasures ahead.
— Siân Gaetano, Children's and YA Editor, Shelf Awareness
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