Take two brilliant teens, some brain chemistries that defy definition, the messiness of family dynamics, the brutality of high school judgment, and the complete wonder of love that seeks understanding and healing rather than penalty and you have the messy, beautiful world of Chaos Theory. Shelby Camille Agustine is deeply afraid of the ways her brain responds to strong emotions. She has bipolar disorder and is still trying to recover from the last time she allowed herself to get close to someone. Walter Andrew Criddle (Andy) is dealing with an immense family tragedy that has left him feeling that the only salve is to be found in alcohol. Within Stone’s brilliant, often hilarious depiction of Andy and Shelbi’s struggles, lies a profound view into surviving when your own body and those who should be there to protect you fail. Most importantly, this is a love story that can show us all better ways to see and love those around us. Another incredible read from the amazing Nic Stone!
Welcome to this dazzling celebration of your most dashing, colorful, rhythmic self! Mark is a lucky kid, granted parents who love him exactly as he is, but sometimes the world outside can be harsher, and this beautiful boy suffers the jabs of some kids at the school who harbor less love in their hearts. The gift of a rainbow cape grants Mark the courage to seek out better friends and once Mark finds them, the world again becomes a place of love, laughter, and DANCE! Observe carefully though because you don’t want to miss the treasures Merritt has left throughout. Enjoy this gorgeous celebration and give it to anyone of any age who needs to know they are loved exactly as they are.
Unicorns aren’t candy colored and they certainly aren’t glittery. They’re ancient creatures who have seen much of what humans and the world have to offer. As are griffons, fairies, harpies, and those creatures that live under your bed- all real. Marjan, a sophomore in high school, believed them to exist only in the realm of the stories her dad told, but suddenly her dad has been brutally murdered, the veterinary clinic he owned is her responsibility and so are the lives of magnificent creatures she didn’t believe in a week before. Navigating this new reality means Marjan will have to figure out who to trust, both human and creature, who killed her dad, what parts of the ancient stories are true, and what piece of everything she is missing. Complex, beautiful, heartbreaking, and exciting, this is a book for kids who don’t want their fantasy sugar-coated or oversimplified. Dare I say this can sit comfortably on the shelf with the Golden Compass? I’ll let you decide.
With adorable, inclusive illustrations, we follow a child from the pain of a bad belly ache to the inner workings of a surgery room, with all its noises, needles, and kind faces. Honest and reassuring, this beautiful book will be an absolute must for any child discovering their bravery in the corridors of a hospital! Every hospital will need multiple copies!
Sicily’s plans for sixth grade, hanging with her Tether Squad, going to Ravenwood Middle School, and writing a play for her best friend Evelyn to star in are dashed when she gets notice that Shirley Chisolm Middle School has opened in time for the new year. Only Sicily’s abuela can console her but being new means introducing yourself to a whole new group and for a curious, confident Sicily, that may just mean exploring her own Afro-Panamanian background more carefully. Prepare to meet music that insists your body move, a history of strong and courageous people, and the incredible power of masterfully done braids. A wonderful addition to the diverse stories opening up our world!
