Adult Recommendations
Bear With Me by Lucy Eden
A disgraced Instagram influencer uses a mountain retreat in an attempt to rehab her image with the help of a grumpy lumberjack, who is more than he appears to be.
Beartown by Fredrik Backman
Beartown explores the hopes that bring a small community together, the secrets that tear it apart, and the courage it takes for an individual to go against the grain. In this story of a small forest town, Fredrik Backman has found the entire world.
"[A] slow burn of a novel about a community that pours all its hopes into a youth hockey team. Think Friday Night Lights for Swedes." — O, The Oprah Magazine
The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah
From the author of the worldwide phenomenon, The Nightingale, comes a story of a family in crisis and a young girl struggling to survive at the edge of the world, in America’s last true frontier. At once an epic story of human survival and an intimate portrait of a family tested beyond endurance, The Great Alone, offers a glimpse into a vanishing way of life in America. With her trademark combination of elegant prose and deeply drawn characters, Kristin Hannah once again delivers a can’t-put-down novel that celebrates the resilience of the human spirit and the remarkable, enduring strength of women. A novel as big and spectacular as Alaska itself.
"In this latest from Hannah, the landscape is hard and bleak but our young heroine learns to accept it and discover her true self...fans will appreciate the astuteness of the story and the unbreakable connection between mother and child." —Library Journal
Instant Attraction by Jill Shalvis
Surviving a bridge collapse that killed everyone else, Katie Kramer vows to become more adventurous. She moves to Wishful, a tiny, picturesque town in the Sierras, and finds a job as an office manager for the Wilder Adventures expedition company. When Cameron Wilder returns unexpectedly from a long absence spent trying to outrun his demons and discovers her asleep in his bed like Goldilocks, he is captivated by her joie de vivre and unflinching honesty, and he exerts himself to encourage her in her quest while trying not to take unfair advantage of her obvious interest. Shalvis embarks on another of her sexy contemporary romantic trilogies featuring commitmentphobic but adaptable bad boys and the women courageous enough to meet them on their own ground. Her fans will enjoy the antics of the three Wilder brothers and their aunt Annie as well as the up-close look at the world of snow sports. - Booklist
Into Thin Air by Jon Krakauer
A bank of clouds was assembling on the not-so-distant horizon, but journalist-mountaineer Jon Krakauer, standing on the summit of Mt. Everest, saw nothing that “suggested that a murderous storm was bearing down.” He was wrong. The storm, which claimed five lives and left countless more—including Krakauer’s—in guilt-ridden disarray, would also provide the impetus for Into Thin Air, Krakauer’s epic account of the May 1996 disaster.
”Into Thin Air ranks among the great adventure books of all time.“ —The Wall Street Journal
Snow: A Scientific and Cultural Exploration by Giles Whittel
Brimming with interesting facts and surprising anecdotes, this scientific and cultural history opens our eyes to the wonders of one of nature’s most delicate, delightful, and deadly phenomena: SNOW! Perfect for fans of The Hidden Life of Trees and Rain.
"A wonderful, wide-ranging book, all powder, no slush...Put this book on your Christmas list and let it snow, let it snow, let it snow." —The Times
The Stranger Inside by Lisa Unger
Lisa Unger is a major bestselling and award-winning thriller author whose books have been published in over twenty countries worldwide and are perfect for fans of Lisa Gardner and Karin Slaughter. The Stranger Inside is a dark psychological thriller about a woman forced to confront the dark secrets of her past when a serial killer strikes too close to home. Introducing one of the most compelling serial killers in crime fiction today, and exploring the very fine line between good and evil, this is a top-notch thriller from a beloved author at the top of her game.
Named a BEST BOOK OF FALL 2019 by People Magazine, Boston Globe, BookBub, PopSugar, CrimeReads and more.
“Brilliant…. A well-crafted psychological thriller.” —The New York Times Book Review
An Unwanted Guest by Shari Lapena
A weekend retreat at a cozy mountain lodge is supposed to be the perfect getaway…but when the storm hits, no one is getting away.
“An intriguing cast, an isolated location, a raging storm and the threat of death in every dark corner: An Unwanted Guest reads like Agatha Christie with a shot of adrenalin. Clear your desk before you start it because you won’t want to put it down.” -Gilly Macmillan, New York Times bestselling author of I Know You Know
Whiskey & Ribbons by Leesa Cross-Smith
Evi—a classically-trained ballerina—was nine months pregnant when her husband Eamon was killed in the line of duty on a steamy morning in July. Now, it is winter, and Eamon's adopted brother Dalton has moved in to help her raise six-month-old Noah.
In the vein of Jojo Moyes’ After You, Whiskey & Ribbons explores the life that continues beyond loss, with a complicated brotherly dynamic reminiscent of Elizabeth Strout’s The Burgess Boys. It’s a meditation on grief, hope, motherhood, brotherhood and surrogate fatherhood. Above all, it’s a novel about what it means—and whether it’s possible—to heal.
"Beautiful and brutal, a gut-punch and a poem--I love this book.” -- Megan Stielstra, The Wrong Way to Save Your Life
Young Adult and Middle Grade recommendations
Breadcrumbs by Anne Ursu
Once upon a time, Hazel and Jack were best friends. They had been best friends since they were six, spending hot Minneapolis summers and cold Minneapolis winters together, dreaming of Hogwarts and Oz, superheroes and baseball. Now that they were eleven, it was weird for a boy and a girl to be best friends. But they couldn’t help it—Hazel and Jack fit, in that way you only read about in books. And they didn’t fit anywhere else.
And then, one day, Jack just stopped talking to Hazel. And while her mom tried to tell her that this sometimes happens to friends at this age, Hazel had read enough stories to know that it’s never that simple. And it turns out she was right. Jack’s heart had been frozen, and he was taken into the woods by a woman dressed in white to live in a palace made of ice. Now it’s up to Hazel to venture into the woods after him.
Recipient of four starred reviews and featured on countless best-of lists, Breadcrumbs is a stunningly original fairy tale of modern-day America. Inspired by the classic Hans Christian Andersen story “The Snow Queen,” Anne Ursu has given us in turn a remarkable middle grade fantasy, a dazzling ode to the power of fantasy, and a heartbreaking meditation on how growing up is as much a choice as it is something that happens to us.
Frozen by Melissa de la Cruz and Michael Johnston
Welcome to New Vegas, a city once covered in bling, now blanketed in ice. Like much of the destroyed planet, the place knows only one temperature—freezing. But some things never change. The diamond in the ice desert is still a 24-hour hedonistic playground and nothing keeps the crowds away from the casino floors, never mind the rumors about sinister sorcery in its shadows.
At the heart of this city is Natasha Kestal, a young blackjack dealer looking for a way out. Like many, she's heard of a mythical land simply called “the Blue.” They say it’s a paradise, where the sun still shines and the waters are turquoise. More importantly, it’s a place where Nat won’t be persecuted, even if her darkest secret comes to light.
But passage to the Blue is treacherous, if not impossible, and her only shot is to bet on a ragtag crew of mercenaries led by a cocky runner named Ryan Wesson to take her there. Danger and deceit await on every corner, even as Nat and Wes find themselves inexorably drawn to each other. But can true love survive the lies? Fiery hearts collide in this fantastic tale of the evil men do and the awesome power within us all.
“Frozen is the perfect mixture of everything I love in a book. It's hard to find the right words to describe how unique, and how fun it was to read it. Humor, suspense, twists, and above all, originality. I was lost in the fascinating world of Nat and Wes. Highly recommended.” --James Dashner, bestselling author of Maze Runner
The Marrow Thieves by Cherie Dimaline
In this futuristic dystopian novel for teens, the Indigenous people of North America are on the run in a fight for survival.
Humanity has nearly destroyed its world through global warming, but now an even greater evil lurks. The indigenous people of North America are being hunted and harvested for their bone marrow, which carries the key to recovering something the rest of the population has lost: the ability to dream. In this dark world, Frenchie and his companions struggle to survive as they make their way up north to the old lands. For now, survival means staying hidden—but what they don't know is that one of them holds the secret to defeating the marrow thieves.
"Dimaline writes elegant prose that grabs the reader and carries them into this dark and passionate world. The author has created a rich work of postapocalyptic fiction without the dense exposition often found in the genre." -- School Library Journal—starred review
Shipwreck at the Bottom of the World by Jennifer Armstrong
In August 1914, Ernest Shackleton and 27 men sailed from England in an attempt to become the first team of explorers to cross Antarctica from one side to the other. Five months later and still 100 miles from land, their ship, Endurance, became trapped in ice. The expedition survived another five months camping on ice floes, followed by a perilous journey through stormy seas to remote and unvisited Elephant Island. In a dramatic climax to this amazing survival story, Shackleton and five others navigated 800 miles of treacherous open ocean in a 20-foot boat to fetch a rescue ship.
"Armstrong's absorbing storytelling, illustrated with dramatic black-and-white photographs, makes this an enthralling adventure." --Publishers Weekly, Starred
Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater
For years, Grace has watched the wolves in the woods behind her house. One yellow-eyed wolf--her wolf--is a chilling presence she can't seem to live without. Meanwhile, Sam has lived two lives: In winter, the frozen woods, the protection of the pack, and the silent company of a fearless girl. In summer, a few precious months of being human . . . until the cold makes him shift back again.
Now, Grace meets a yellow-eyed boy whose familiarity takes her breath away. It's her wolf. It has to be. But as winter nears, Sam must fight to stay human--or risk losing himself, and Grace, forever.
"Beautifully written, even poetic at times, and a perfect indulgence for readers of all ages." -BookPage
Some Places More Than Others by Renee Watson
All Amara wants is to visit her father's family in Harlem. Her wish comes true when her dad decides to bring her along on a business trip. She can't wait to finally meet her extended family and stay in the brownstone where her dad grew up. Plus, she wants to visit every landmark from the Apollo to Langston Hughes's home.
But her family, and even the city, is not quite what Amara thought. Her dad doesn’t speak to her grandpa, and the crowded streets can be suffocating as well as inspiring. But as she learns more and more about Harlem—and her father’s history—Amara realizes how, in some ways more than others, she can connect with this other home and family.
This is a powerful story about family, the places that make us who we are, and how we find ways to connect to our history across time and distance.
“Watson, with rhythm and style, somehow gets at . . . the life-changing power of voice.” — bestselling author Jason Reynolds
Trapped by Michael Northrop
A chilling YA thriller from critically acclaimed author Michael Northrop. The day the blizzard started, no one knew that it was going to keep snowing for a week. That for those in its path, it would become not just a matter of keeping warm, but of staying alive. . . .
"A gripping disaster story...Northrop's solid storytelling should keep readers rapt." -- Publishers Weekly
Winterfrost by Michelle Houts
Christmas has come, and with it a sparkling white winterfrost. When Bettina’s parents are called away unexpectedly, leaving her in charge of the house, the farm, and baby Pia, Bettina neglects to set out the traditional bowl of Christmas rice pudding for the tiny nisse. No one besides her grandfather ever believed the nisse were real, so what harm could there be in forgetting this silly custom? But when baby Pia disappears, the magic of the nisse makes itself known. To find her sister and set things right, Bettina must venture into the miniature world of these usually helpful, but sometimes mischievous, folk.
“This folkloric tale is rich with depth and tradition and full of a child’s wonder of the natural world. . . . A timeless story.” — Kirkus Reviews
Picture Book Recommendations
Sus Yoo / The Bear’s Medicine by Clayton Gauthier
A mother bear shares with her cubs how to be grateful for all they have in the natural world. The Bear's Medicine shows the interconnectedness of all things in the world they live in and how each season brings changes and blessings for the bears. It is a story of a mother's love for her children as she teaches them how to survive. Written in English and Dakelh.
A Big Bed for Little Snow by Grace Lin
A companion to the Caldecott Honor book A Big Mooncake for Little Star!
Little Snow loves the new big, soft bed Mommy made him for the long, cold winter nights. But Mommy says this bed is for sleeping, not jumping! What happens when he can't resist jump, jump, jumping on his new fluffy, bouncy bed? Bestselling and award-winning author Grace Lin artfully introduces young readers to their first snow through striking illustrations and heartwarming moments.
Blizzard by John Rocco
Blizzard is based on John Rocco's childhood experience during the now infamous Blizzard of 1978, which brought fifty-three inches of snow to his town in Rhode Island. Told with a brief text and dynamic illustrations, the book opens with a boy’s excitement upon seeing the first snowflake fall outside his classroom window. It ends with the neighborhood’s immense relief upon seeing the first snowplow break through on their street. In between the boy watches his familiar landscape transform into something alien, and readers watch him transform into a hero who puts the needs of others first. This book about the wonder of a winter storm is as delicious as a mug of hot cocoa by the fire on a snowy day.
A Loud Winter’s Nap by Katy Hudson
Every year Tortoise sleeps through winter. He assumes he isn’t missing much. However, his friends are determined to prove otherwise! Will Tortoise sleep through another winter, or will his friends convince him to stay awake and experience the frosty fun of winter? Best-selling author Katy Hudson's charming picture book will have everyone excited for winter.
The Mitten by Jan Brett
When Nicki drops his white mitten in the snow, he goes on without realizing that it is missing.
One by one, woodland animals find it and crawl in; first, a curious mole, then a rabbit, a badger and others, each one larger than the last. Finally, a big brown bear is followed in by a tiny brown mouse and what happens next makes for a wonderfully funny climax.
As the story of the animals in the mitten unfolds, the reader can see Nicki in the borders of each page, walking through the woods unaware of what is going on.
Over and Under the Snow by Kate Messner
Over the snow, the world is hushed and white. But under the snow exists a secret kingdom of squirrels and snow hares, bears and bullfrogs, and many other animals that live through the winter safe and warm, awake and busy, under the snow. Discover the wonder and activity that lies beneath winter's snowy landscape in this magical book.
Owl Moon by Jane Yolen
Late one winter night a little girl and her father go owling. The trees stand still as statues and the world is silent as a dream. Whoo-whoo-whoo, the father calls to the mysterious nighttime bird. But there is no answer. Wordlessly the two companions walk along, for when you go owling you don't need words. You don't need anything but hope. Sometimes there isn't an owl, but sometimes there is.
Distinguished author Jane Yolen has created a gentle, poetic story that lovingly depicts the special companionship of a young child and her father as well as humankind's close relationship to the natural world. Wonderfully complemented by John Schoenherr's soft, exquisite watercolor illustrations, this is a verbal and visual treasure, perfect for reading aloud and sharing at bedtime.
Snow Day! by Candice Ransom
The brother and sister from PUMPKIN DAY! and APPLE PICKING DAY! have woken up to a winter wonderland--it's a snow day! Read along as they engage in favorite winter activities with their neighborhood friends on their day off from school. Easy-to-follow rhyme ensures a successful reading experience, and bright, fun art enhances the story.
Step 1 Readers feature big type and easy words. Rhymes and rhythmic text paired with picture clues help children decode the story. For children who know the alphabet and are eager to begin reading.
Snowflake Bentley by Jacqueline Briggs
From the time he was a small boy in Vermont, Wilson Bentley saw snowflakes as small miracles. And he determined that one day his camera would capture for others the wonder of the tiny crystal. Bentley's enthusiasm for photographing snowflakes was often misunderstood in his time, but his patience and determination revealed two important truths: no two snowflakes are alike; and each one is startlingly beautiful. His story is gracefully told and brought to life in lovely woodcuts, giving children insight into a soul who had not only a scientist's vision and perseverance but a clear passion for the wonders of nature.Snowflake Bentleywon the 1999 Caldecott Medal.
Snowmen All Year by Carolyn Buehner
Imagine a snowman so magical that he could stick around all year long! In this lighthearted, funny follow-up to the previous Snowmen bestsellers, our young narrator dreams of a non-melting snowman friend who joins him for all of the year's events. They ride a roller coaster together, dive into a swimming pool in the summer, watch the Fourth of July fireworks, and trick-or-treat on Halloween. It's hilarious, happy wish fulfillment that kids will adore.
The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats
Winner of the 1963 Caldecott Medal, no book has captured the magic and sense of possibility of the first snowfall better than The Snowy Day. Universal in its appeal, the story has become a favorite of millions, as it reveals a child's wonder at a new world, and the hope of capturing and keeping that wonder forever.
Snowy Nap by Jan Brett
When winter comes, Hedgie tries to stay awake so he doesn’t miss out on all the fun his friends are having. Snow is on the way, and as Hedgie trundles around the farm all his friends tell him of the winter-time fun he will miss as he hibernates—Icicles decorating the chicken coop! Lisa making snowmen! The pond turned to slippery ice! It sounds so amazing, Hedgie decides to stay awake instead of going to his burrow. But then a snowstorm starts. Luckily, Lisa finds him and brings him inside so Hedgie gets to see the wonders of winter from inside the cozy house.
Other winter-themed classics from Jan Brett: The Mitten and The Hat.
The Story of Snow by Mark Cassino
How do snow crystals form? What shapes can they take? Are no two snow crystals alike? These questions and more are answered inside this exploration of the science of snow, featuring photos of real snow crystals in all their beautiful diversity. Perfect for reading on winter days, this book by a nature photographer and a snow scientist will inspire wonder and curiosity about the marvels of snow. Snowflake-catching instructions are also included for aspiring young snow scientists!
Winter is Here by Kevin Henkes
Explore the sights, sounds, and smells of the season in this breathtaking ode to winter. Snow falls, animals burrow, and children prepare for the wonders winter brings. With a simple and poetic text, Kevin Henkes teaches basic concepts of language and the season while Laura Dronzek’s stunning paintings beautifully capture the joyful wonders of winter. Winter Is Here is ideal for story time, seasonal curriculums, and bedtime reading.
Bear With Me by Lucy Eden
A disgraced Instagram influencer uses a mountain retreat in an attempt to rehab her image with the help of a grumpy lumberjack, who is more than he appears to be.
Beartown by Fredrik Backman
Beartown explores the hopes that bring a small community together, the secrets that tear it apart, and the courage it takes for an individual to go against the grain. In this story of a small forest town, Fredrik Backman has found the entire world.
"[A] slow burn of a novel about a community that pours all its hopes into a youth hockey team. Think Friday Night Lights for Swedes." — O, The Oprah Magazine
The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah
From the author of the worldwide phenomenon, The Nightingale, comes a story of a family in crisis and a young girl struggling to survive at the edge of the world, in America’s last true frontier. At once an epic story of human survival and an intimate portrait of a family tested beyond endurance, The Great Alone, offers a glimpse into a vanishing way of life in America. With her trademark combination of elegant prose and deeply drawn characters, Kristin Hannah once again delivers a can’t-put-down novel that celebrates the resilience of the human spirit and the remarkable, enduring strength of women. A novel as big and spectacular as Alaska itself.
"In this latest from Hannah, the landscape is hard and bleak but our young heroine learns to accept it and discover her true self...fans will appreciate the astuteness of the story and the unbreakable connection between mother and child." —Library Journal
Instant Attraction by Jill Shalvis
Surviving a bridge collapse that killed everyone else, Katie Kramer vows to become more adventurous. She moves to Wishful, a tiny, picturesque town in the Sierras, and finds a job as an office manager for the Wilder Adventures expedition company. When Cameron Wilder returns unexpectedly from a long absence spent trying to outrun his demons and discovers her asleep in his bed like Goldilocks, he is captivated by her joie de vivre and unflinching honesty, and he exerts himself to encourage her in her quest while trying not to take unfair advantage of her obvious interest. Shalvis embarks on another of her sexy contemporary romantic trilogies featuring commitmentphobic but adaptable bad boys and the women courageous enough to meet them on their own ground. Her fans will enjoy the antics of the three Wilder brothers and their aunt Annie as well as the up-close look at the world of snow sports. - Booklist
Into Thin Air by Jon Krakauer
A bank of clouds was assembling on the not-so-distant horizon, but journalist-mountaineer Jon Krakauer, standing on the summit of Mt. Everest, saw nothing that “suggested that a murderous storm was bearing down.” He was wrong. The storm, which claimed five lives and left countless more—including Krakauer’s—in guilt-ridden disarray, would also provide the impetus for Into Thin Air, Krakauer’s epic account of the May 1996 disaster.
”Into Thin Air ranks among the great adventure books of all time.“ —The Wall Street Journal
Snow: A Scientific and Cultural Exploration by Giles Whittel
Brimming with interesting facts and surprising anecdotes, this scientific and cultural history opens our eyes to the wonders of one of nature’s most delicate, delightful, and deadly phenomena: SNOW! Perfect for fans of The Hidden Life of Trees and Rain.
"A wonderful, wide-ranging book, all powder, no slush...Put this book on your Christmas list and let it snow, let it snow, let it snow." —The Times
The Stranger Inside by Lisa Unger
Lisa Unger is a major bestselling and award-winning thriller author whose books have been published in over twenty countries worldwide and are perfect for fans of Lisa Gardner and Karin Slaughter. The Stranger Inside is a dark psychological thriller about a woman forced to confront the dark secrets of her past when a serial killer strikes too close to home. Introducing one of the most compelling serial killers in crime fiction today, and exploring the very fine line between good and evil, this is a top-notch thriller from a beloved author at the top of her game.
Named a BEST BOOK OF FALL 2019 by People Magazine, Boston Globe, BookBub, PopSugar, CrimeReads and more.
“Brilliant…. A well-crafted psychological thriller.” —The New York Times Book Review
An Unwanted Guest by Shari Lapena
A weekend retreat at a cozy mountain lodge is supposed to be the perfect getaway…but when the storm hits, no one is getting away.
“An intriguing cast, an isolated location, a raging storm and the threat of death in every dark corner: An Unwanted Guest reads like Agatha Christie with a shot of adrenalin. Clear your desk before you start it because you won’t want to put it down.” -Gilly Macmillan, New York Times bestselling author of I Know You Know
Whiskey & Ribbons by Leesa Cross-Smith
Evi—a classically-trained ballerina—was nine months pregnant when her husband Eamon was killed in the line of duty on a steamy morning in July. Now, it is winter, and Eamon's adopted brother Dalton has moved in to help her raise six-month-old Noah.
In the vein of Jojo Moyes’ After You, Whiskey & Ribbons explores the life that continues beyond loss, with a complicated brotherly dynamic reminiscent of Elizabeth Strout’s The Burgess Boys. It’s a meditation on grief, hope, motherhood, brotherhood and surrogate fatherhood. Above all, it’s a novel about what it means—and whether it’s possible—to heal.
"Beautiful and brutal, a gut-punch and a poem--I love this book.” -- Megan Stielstra, The Wrong Way to Save Your Life
Young Adult and Middle Grade recommendations
Breadcrumbs by Anne Ursu
Once upon a time, Hazel and Jack were best friends. They had been best friends since they were six, spending hot Minneapolis summers and cold Minneapolis winters together, dreaming of Hogwarts and Oz, superheroes and baseball. Now that they were eleven, it was weird for a boy and a girl to be best friends. But they couldn’t help it—Hazel and Jack fit, in that way you only read about in books. And they didn’t fit anywhere else.
And then, one day, Jack just stopped talking to Hazel. And while her mom tried to tell her that this sometimes happens to friends at this age, Hazel had read enough stories to know that it’s never that simple. And it turns out she was right. Jack’s heart had been frozen, and he was taken into the woods by a woman dressed in white to live in a palace made of ice. Now it’s up to Hazel to venture into the woods after him.
Recipient of four starred reviews and featured on countless best-of lists, Breadcrumbs is a stunningly original fairy tale of modern-day America. Inspired by the classic Hans Christian Andersen story “The Snow Queen,” Anne Ursu has given us in turn a remarkable middle grade fantasy, a dazzling ode to the power of fantasy, and a heartbreaking meditation on how growing up is as much a choice as it is something that happens to us.
Frozen by Melissa de la Cruz and Michael Johnston
Welcome to New Vegas, a city once covered in bling, now blanketed in ice. Like much of the destroyed planet, the place knows only one temperature—freezing. But some things never change. The diamond in the ice desert is still a 24-hour hedonistic playground and nothing keeps the crowds away from the casino floors, never mind the rumors about sinister sorcery in its shadows.
At the heart of this city is Natasha Kestal, a young blackjack dealer looking for a way out. Like many, she's heard of a mythical land simply called “the Blue.” They say it’s a paradise, where the sun still shines and the waters are turquoise. More importantly, it’s a place where Nat won’t be persecuted, even if her darkest secret comes to light.
But passage to the Blue is treacherous, if not impossible, and her only shot is to bet on a ragtag crew of mercenaries led by a cocky runner named Ryan Wesson to take her there. Danger and deceit await on every corner, even as Nat and Wes find themselves inexorably drawn to each other. But can true love survive the lies? Fiery hearts collide in this fantastic tale of the evil men do and the awesome power within us all.
“Frozen is the perfect mixture of everything I love in a book. It's hard to find the right words to describe how unique, and how fun it was to read it. Humor, suspense, twists, and above all, originality. I was lost in the fascinating world of Nat and Wes. Highly recommended.” --James Dashner, bestselling author of Maze Runner
The Marrow Thieves by Cherie Dimaline
In this futuristic dystopian novel for teens, the Indigenous people of North America are on the run in a fight for survival.
Humanity has nearly destroyed its world through global warming, but now an even greater evil lurks. The indigenous people of North America are being hunted and harvested for their bone marrow, which carries the key to recovering something the rest of the population has lost: the ability to dream. In this dark world, Frenchie and his companions struggle to survive as they make their way up north to the old lands. For now, survival means staying hidden—but what they don't know is that one of them holds the secret to defeating the marrow thieves.
"Dimaline writes elegant prose that grabs the reader and carries them into this dark and passionate world. The author has created a rich work of postapocalyptic fiction without the dense exposition often found in the genre." -- School Library Journal—starred review
Shipwreck at the Bottom of the World by Jennifer Armstrong
In August 1914, Ernest Shackleton and 27 men sailed from England in an attempt to become the first team of explorers to cross Antarctica from one side to the other. Five months later and still 100 miles from land, their ship, Endurance, became trapped in ice. The expedition survived another five months camping on ice floes, followed by a perilous journey through stormy seas to remote and unvisited Elephant Island. In a dramatic climax to this amazing survival story, Shackleton and five others navigated 800 miles of treacherous open ocean in a 20-foot boat to fetch a rescue ship.
"Armstrong's absorbing storytelling, illustrated with dramatic black-and-white photographs, makes this an enthralling adventure." --Publishers Weekly, Starred
Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater
For years, Grace has watched the wolves in the woods behind her house. One yellow-eyed wolf--her wolf--is a chilling presence she can't seem to live without. Meanwhile, Sam has lived two lives: In winter, the frozen woods, the protection of the pack, and the silent company of a fearless girl. In summer, a few precious months of being human . . . until the cold makes him shift back again.
Now, Grace meets a yellow-eyed boy whose familiarity takes her breath away. It's her wolf. It has to be. But as winter nears, Sam must fight to stay human--or risk losing himself, and Grace, forever.
"Beautifully written, even poetic at times, and a perfect indulgence for readers of all ages." -BookPage
Some Places More Than Others by Renee Watson
All Amara wants is to visit her father's family in Harlem. Her wish comes true when her dad decides to bring her along on a business trip. She can't wait to finally meet her extended family and stay in the brownstone where her dad grew up. Plus, she wants to visit every landmark from the Apollo to Langston Hughes's home.
But her family, and even the city, is not quite what Amara thought. Her dad doesn’t speak to her grandpa, and the crowded streets can be suffocating as well as inspiring. But as she learns more and more about Harlem—and her father’s history—Amara realizes how, in some ways more than others, she can connect with this other home and family.
This is a powerful story about family, the places that make us who we are, and how we find ways to connect to our history across time and distance.
“Watson, with rhythm and style, somehow gets at . . . the life-changing power of voice.” — bestselling author Jason Reynolds
Trapped by Michael Northrop
A chilling YA thriller from critically acclaimed author Michael Northrop. The day the blizzard started, no one knew that it was going to keep snowing for a week. That for those in its path, it would become not just a matter of keeping warm, but of staying alive. . . .
"A gripping disaster story...Northrop's solid storytelling should keep readers rapt." -- Publishers Weekly
Winterfrost by Michelle Houts
Christmas has come, and with it a sparkling white winterfrost. When Bettina’s parents are called away unexpectedly, leaving her in charge of the house, the farm, and baby Pia, Bettina neglects to set out the traditional bowl of Christmas rice pudding for the tiny nisse. No one besides her grandfather ever believed the nisse were real, so what harm could there be in forgetting this silly custom? But when baby Pia disappears, the magic of the nisse makes itself known. To find her sister and set things right, Bettina must venture into the miniature world of these usually helpful, but sometimes mischievous, folk.
“This folkloric tale is rich with depth and tradition and full of a child’s wonder of the natural world. . . . A timeless story.” — Kirkus Reviews
Picture Book Recommendations
Sus Yoo / The Bear’s Medicine by Clayton Gauthier
A mother bear shares with her cubs how to be grateful for all they have in the natural world. The Bear's Medicine shows the interconnectedness of all things in the world they live in and how each season brings changes and blessings for the bears. It is a story of a mother's love for her children as she teaches them how to survive. Written in English and Dakelh.
A Big Bed for Little Snow by Grace Lin
A companion to the Caldecott Honor book A Big Mooncake for Little Star!
Little Snow loves the new big, soft bed Mommy made him for the long, cold winter nights. But Mommy says this bed is for sleeping, not jumping! What happens when he can't resist jump, jump, jumping on his new fluffy, bouncy bed? Bestselling and award-winning author Grace Lin artfully introduces young readers to their first snow through striking illustrations and heartwarming moments.
Blizzard by John Rocco
Blizzard is based on John Rocco's childhood experience during the now infamous Blizzard of 1978, which brought fifty-three inches of snow to his town in Rhode Island. Told with a brief text and dynamic illustrations, the book opens with a boy’s excitement upon seeing the first snowflake fall outside his classroom window. It ends with the neighborhood’s immense relief upon seeing the first snowplow break through on their street. In between the boy watches his familiar landscape transform into something alien, and readers watch him transform into a hero who puts the needs of others first. This book about the wonder of a winter storm is as delicious as a mug of hot cocoa by the fire on a snowy day.
A Loud Winter’s Nap by Katy Hudson
Every year Tortoise sleeps through winter. He assumes he isn’t missing much. However, his friends are determined to prove otherwise! Will Tortoise sleep through another winter, or will his friends convince him to stay awake and experience the frosty fun of winter? Best-selling author Katy Hudson's charming picture book will have everyone excited for winter.
The Mitten by Jan Brett
When Nicki drops his white mitten in the snow, he goes on without realizing that it is missing.
One by one, woodland animals find it and crawl in; first, a curious mole, then a rabbit, a badger and others, each one larger than the last. Finally, a big brown bear is followed in by a tiny brown mouse and what happens next makes for a wonderfully funny climax.
As the story of the animals in the mitten unfolds, the reader can see Nicki in the borders of each page, walking through the woods unaware of what is going on.
Over and Under the Snow by Kate Messner
Over the snow, the world is hushed and white. But under the snow exists a secret kingdom of squirrels and snow hares, bears and bullfrogs, and many other animals that live through the winter safe and warm, awake and busy, under the snow. Discover the wonder and activity that lies beneath winter's snowy landscape in this magical book.
Owl Moon by Jane Yolen
Late one winter night a little girl and her father go owling. The trees stand still as statues and the world is silent as a dream. Whoo-whoo-whoo, the father calls to the mysterious nighttime bird. But there is no answer. Wordlessly the two companions walk along, for when you go owling you don't need words. You don't need anything but hope. Sometimes there isn't an owl, but sometimes there is.
Distinguished author Jane Yolen has created a gentle, poetic story that lovingly depicts the special companionship of a young child and her father as well as humankind's close relationship to the natural world. Wonderfully complemented by John Schoenherr's soft, exquisite watercolor illustrations, this is a verbal and visual treasure, perfect for reading aloud and sharing at bedtime.
Snow Day! by Candice Ransom
The brother and sister from PUMPKIN DAY! and APPLE PICKING DAY! have woken up to a winter wonderland--it's a snow day! Read along as they engage in favorite winter activities with their neighborhood friends on their day off from school. Easy-to-follow rhyme ensures a successful reading experience, and bright, fun art enhances the story.
Step 1 Readers feature big type and easy words. Rhymes and rhythmic text paired with picture clues help children decode the story. For children who know the alphabet and are eager to begin reading.
Snowflake Bentley by Jacqueline Briggs
From the time he was a small boy in Vermont, Wilson Bentley saw snowflakes as small miracles. And he determined that one day his camera would capture for others the wonder of the tiny crystal. Bentley's enthusiasm for photographing snowflakes was often misunderstood in his time, but his patience and determination revealed two important truths: no two snowflakes are alike; and each one is startlingly beautiful. His story is gracefully told and brought to life in lovely woodcuts, giving children insight into a soul who had not only a scientist's vision and perseverance but a clear passion for the wonders of nature.Snowflake Bentleywon the 1999 Caldecott Medal.
Snowmen All Year by Carolyn Buehner
Imagine a snowman so magical that he could stick around all year long! In this lighthearted, funny follow-up to the previous Snowmen bestsellers, our young narrator dreams of a non-melting snowman friend who joins him for all of the year's events. They ride a roller coaster together, dive into a swimming pool in the summer, watch the Fourth of July fireworks, and trick-or-treat on Halloween. It's hilarious, happy wish fulfillment that kids will adore.
The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats
Winner of the 1963 Caldecott Medal, no book has captured the magic and sense of possibility of the first snowfall better than The Snowy Day. Universal in its appeal, the story has become a favorite of millions, as it reveals a child's wonder at a new world, and the hope of capturing and keeping that wonder forever.
Snowy Nap by Jan Brett
When winter comes, Hedgie tries to stay awake so he doesn’t miss out on all the fun his friends are having. Snow is on the way, and as Hedgie trundles around the farm all his friends tell him of the winter-time fun he will miss as he hibernates—Icicles decorating the chicken coop! Lisa making snowmen! The pond turned to slippery ice! It sounds so amazing, Hedgie decides to stay awake instead of going to his burrow. But then a snowstorm starts. Luckily, Lisa finds him and brings him inside so Hedgie gets to see the wonders of winter from inside the cozy house.
Other winter-themed classics from Jan Brett: The Mitten and The Hat.
The Story of Snow by Mark Cassino
How do snow crystals form? What shapes can they take? Are no two snow crystals alike? These questions and more are answered inside this exploration of the science of snow, featuring photos of real snow crystals in all their beautiful diversity. Perfect for reading on winter days, this book by a nature photographer and a snow scientist will inspire wonder and curiosity about the marvels of snow. Snowflake-catching instructions are also included for aspiring young snow scientists!
Winter is Here by Kevin Henkes
Explore the sights, sounds, and smells of the season in this breathtaking ode to winter. Snow falls, animals burrow, and children prepare for the wonders winter brings. With a simple and poetic text, Kevin Henkes teaches basic concepts of language and the season while Laura Dronzek’s stunning paintings beautifully capture the joyful wonders of winter. Winter Is Here is ideal for story time, seasonal curriculums, and bedtime reading.