F U NÑR e a d i n g
C HAP TE R BOOKS 1
Pawcasso
Written and illustrated by Remy Lai
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A surprisingly sophisticated graphic novel with a unique title character (a dog who shops at markets by himself!) engrossed our kid reviewers. In the name of fitting in and making friends, the protagonist, Jo, passes the dog off as hers. Said one mom: “Though the circumstances in the book are unusual, this act of stretching the truth to impress people is extremely relatable to gradeschoolers.” Ages 8 to 12 2
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Stamped (for Kids)
Adapted by Sonja Cherry-Paul from the book by Jason Reynolds and Parents advisor Ibram X. Kendi, illustrated by Rachelle Baker
The youth version of the best-seller Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You exposes elementary-schoolers to uncomfortable truths about U.S. history. “I was unaware that President Obama faced so much trauma when he ran for office,” said a 10-year-old. Added another, ”I learned that President Abraham Lincoln, who is known for abolishing slavery, had opinions that Black people are unequal.” Ages 6 to 10
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Simon and Chester: Super Detectives! Written and illustrated by Cale Atkinson
The first book in a new graphic novel series debuts on a whimsical note when a boy and a ghost try to uncover how a mysterious pug got into the kitchen. High jinks and witty illustrations cracked up our kid reviewers. Ages 6 to 9
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Maybe Maybe Marisol Rainey 5
Written and illustrated by Erin Entrada Kelly
Sensitive and anxious Marisol is an exceedingly relatable Filipino American heroine in this book that bridges early readers and middle grade. The journey to overcome her fears and climb a magnolia tree in her backyard is full of suspense and heart. Ages 6 to 10
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I’m On It!
Written by Andrea Tsurumi
An entertaining way to learn about prepositions like through and under, this early reader puts a frog and a goat in hilariously tenuous positions. Ages 5 to 8
The Best Books for Teens Hover your phone’s camera over the smart code or go to parents .com/TeenBooks for ten 2021 faves from our teen reviewers.
PA R E N T S
62 D E C E M B E R
2021
