Happy Book Birthday: February New Releases
February may be the shortest month of the year, but it’s packed with exciting new books ready to whisk readers into brand new worlds! Does your library need new graphic novels, picture books, nonfiction, and fiction? We’ve got you covered! Light the candles, throw the confetti, and welcome February’s latest literary arrivals!
New Picture Books
Kahoʻolawe: The True Story of an Island and Her People by Kamalani Hurley and illustrated by Harinani Orme
- Interest Level: Grade 2 – 5
Discover the story of the smallest Hawaiian island, a place sacred to Native Hawaiians, from its formation long ago to its present-day restoration as a protected site. A remarkable narrative accompanied by stunning illustrations.
★”A stunningly beautiful book that tells the story of destruction, devastation, and resilience, of both the human and natural world. . . The artwork tells the story in dramatic, compelling, and beautiful ways. Together, text and art will engage readers from the first page.”—starred, School Library Journal
“This beautifully illustrated picture book introduces the smallest and only uninhabited island, Kaho’olawe. Painted illustrations with bold colors, thick brushstrokes, and rich textures enhance three layers of text.”—Booklist
The Mitzvah Fairy by Danielle Joseph and illustrated by Christine Battuz
- Interest Level: Grade 2 – 5
The Mitzvah Fairy wakes up early. He fluffs his wings. He grabs his crown and wand. Then he spends the day spreading joy. This book includes an author’s note matching up the mitzvahs in the story with Jewish values.
“[M]any readers will appreciate this quiet, matter-of-fact tale of a young everyday hero doing his best, it’ll have special resonance for those familiar with Judaism.”—Kirkus Review
Twist, Tumble, Triumph: The Story of Champion Gymnast Ágnes Keleti by Deborah Bodin Cohen and Kerry Olitzky; illustrated by Martina Peluso
- Interest Level: Grade K – 3
Ágnes Keleti can forget about the war when she is doing gymnastics—until Jewish athletes are barred from the gym. Never giving up on her dream, her moment of triumph comes at the 1952 Olympics.
★”An inspiring and fascinating biography for readers interested in sports, history, or simply a good story of resilience.”—starred, Booklist
“A stirring expression of the triumph of the human spirit.”—Kirkus Reviews
“Keleti’s life experiences will captivate new generations of readers while simultaneously teaching important history lessons.”—School Library Journal
New Graphic Novels
The Case of the Bloody Statue: Book 2 by Chi-hyeon Ahn, illustrated by Gyung-hyo Kang, and translated by Gloria Ohe
- Interest Level: Grade 4 – 6
Some streamers sneak into an abandoned mansion and capture footage of statues crying tears of blood. Everyone at school is terrified! That is, everyone but the Mystery Science Detectives!
“This creepy story skillfully balances science with an intriguing plot, brought to life by expressive, manga-style illustrations. Engaging layouts and tense moments—more playful than truly scary—make for a satisfying read. . . A gratifying mystery bound to delight young skeptics.”—Kirkus Reviews
Super Potato and the Sewer Smackdown by Artur Laperla
- Interest Level: Grade 2 – 5
Space fugitive Zort the Slug King has chased Super Potato all over outer space. But now he’s trapped our hero in Earth’s sewers. Will Super Potato survive this super-stinky cosmic kerfuffle?
New Fiction
The Girl Who Couldn’t Lie by Radhika Sanghani
- Interest Level: Grade 5 – 8
Priya frequently bends the truth to keep her friends, family, and gymnastics coach happy. But when she gets her beloved late grandmother’s bangle stuck on her wrist, she finds herself incapable of telling a lie.
“Sanghani’s charmed take on radical honesty tackles how damaging family secrets can be and the value of finding your voice.”—Booklist
“A delightful emotional journey enhanced with a touch of magic.”—Kirkus Reviews
“With the humor and pain that accompanies forced truth-telling, this book explores deeper familial, friendship, self-care, and cultural issues in a fun page-turner.”—School Library Journal
New Nonfiction
The Power of Yet: Developing a Growth Mindset with Sesame Street ® by Whitney Sanderson
- Interest Level: Grade PreK – 2
Young readers join Sesame Street friends in discovering new skills and the power of yet. Learn the importance of practice, how to manage feelings of frustration, and more.
Disconnected: Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease by Connie Goldsmith
- Interest Level: Grade 6 – 12
Alzheimer’s disease is a dementia that affects the memory, thinking, and behavior of millions of Americans. Understand more about what Alzheimer’s is through a look at its stages, current clinical research, caregiver accounts, and more.
“Signs and symptoms, diagnosis and treatment, costs and care plans, and practical tips for communicating and spending time with people diagnosed are addressed, bolstered by numerous first-person testimonials from caregivers, spouses, children, and grandchildren. . . this offering on a surprisingly under-addressed topic will help kids and families seeking current information, coping strategies, and reassurance.”—Booklist
“Goldsmith, a veteran nonfiction author with a science background, offers teens an excellent informational book that’s both heartwarming and heartbreaking. Helpful, wise, and informative.”—Kirkus Reviews
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