7 Exciting New Books for Kids

This month, both parents and children have the chance to explore some remarkable new picture books. Perfect for shared reading times, these selections can also become a wonderful addition to classroom libraries. Let’s delve into a few standout titles that promise to entertain and educate young minds.

“Hit the Piñata” by Jeffrey Burton, illustrated by Neil Clark (Little Simon, ages 1-4)

Introduce little ones to the joy of piñatas with this vibrant and interactive board book. The book’s design encourages children to shake it, revealing delightful surprises that are sure to elicit giggles.

“I Am La Chiva!: The Colorful Bus of the Andes” by Karol Hernández, illustrated by Lorena Alvarez Gómez (Dial Books for Young Readers, ages 2-5)

Join a colorful bus named La Chiva on a journey through the Andes to the bustling mercado. This beautifully illustrated book features rhyming text and weaves in Spanish vocabulary, complete with a glossary for easy reference. It’s a story that offers something new with every read, making it a delightful addition to storytime.

“Daughter of the Light-Footed People: The Story of Indigenous Marathon Champion Lorena Ramírez” by Belen Medina, illustrated by Natalia Rojas Castro (Atheneum Books for Young Readers, ages 4-8)

This inspiring picture book tells the true tale of Lorena Ramírez, an Indigenous Rarámuri ultramarathoner from Mexico who runs in traditional attire. The story emphasizes family, tradition, perseverance, and pride, providing plenty of discussion points for families and classrooms.

“Barrio Rising: The Protest That Built Chicano Park” by María Dolores Águila, illustrated by Magdalena Mora (Dial Books for Young Readers, ages 4-8)

Teaching young readers about the power of community action, this book recounts the courageous protest that led to the creation of Chicano Park in San Diego. The residents’ ongoing struggle is poignantly depicted, and the book includes a detailed history for older readers.

“As the Seas Rise – Nicole Hernández Hammer and the Fight for Climate Justice” by Angela Quezada Padron (Atheneum Books for Young Readers, ages 4-8)

This compelling book is an excellent tool for discussions at home and in science classrooms. It follows environmental scientist Nicole Hernández Hammer’s efforts to educate and empower communities on climate justice. The story offers a great introduction to topics such as climate change and how individuals can make a difference.

“The Wolf Effect – A Wilderness Revival Story” by Rosanne Parry, illustrated by Jennifer Thermes (Greenwillow Books, ages 4-8)

Highlighting the resilience of nature, this book explores the integral role each species plays within an ecosystem. It particularly focuses on the impact of wolves in Yellowstone, illustrating how their presence affects numerous other species and the environment itself. This book is educational for both children and parents.

“A Mind of Her Own: The Story of Mystery Writer Agatha Christie” by Robyn McGrath, illustrated by Liz Wong (Beach Lane Books, ages 4-8)

Engage young readers, especially those who are imaginative thinkers, with the story of Agatha Christie. This book chronicles her journey from a girl with a vivid imagination to a renowned mystery writer. An insightful afterword provides additional context, making it a perfect launch pad for a classroom study unit.

Source: Greenville News