February Happy Book Birthday

We are proud to share the February new releases from Lerner Publishing Group. These titles include picture books to help young readers find peace and understanding, graphic novels encouraging kindness and cooperation, and middle grade novels emphasizing using your voice.

New in Picture Books

A Home on the Page by Kao Kalia Yang and illustrated by Seo Kim

• Interest Level: K – 4

After young Nou finds “Asians Go Home” spray-painted outside her house, she wonders where home truly is. Family members share how they find home, and Nou begins writing stories, creating a place where she belongs.

Praise for A Home on the Page

★”In this heartrending but hopeful story that celebrates family ties and the imagination, swooping, surreal floral details are set against lovely textured backgrounds, while tilted images and masses of swirls reflect Nou’s discombobulation. Still, her sweet spirit and wide dreams overcome all.”—starred, Foreword Reviews

“A resonating, inspiring story that encourages creative resilience and strength.”—Kirkus Reviews

“A powerful story with beautiful illustrations that not only calls out the hate that is in the world today but also provides a message of hope for those who are in search of a creative outlet to find their proverbial home. Recommended.”—School Library Journal

Tomorrow I’m in Charge! authored and illustrated by Jörg Mϋhle and translated by Melody Shaw

• Interest Level: PreK – 1

A comical picture book in which three forest friends debate vital childhood questions: who’s allowed to play, what game, and who decides.

Praise for Tomorrow I’m in Charge!

“Notably, this is no morality tale with a neat and tidy ending; rather, it’s a strong example of what not to do that honestly explores the consequences of jealousy and stubbornness. A candid and authentic glimpse at the rocky road that is negotiating social interactions.” —Kirkus Reviews

“Readers might find their animal counterpart in one of the three main characters, which could springboard into interesting conversations about collaboration and sharing. This German import will be useful and enjoyable in classrooms or on the SEL shelves.”—School Library Journal

New in Board Books

Stop the Ball! authored and illustrated by Susanne Strasser and translated by Melody Shaw

• Interest Level: PreK

This boisterous board book starts with a wayward shot on goal then one animal after another chases the runaway ball until it lands in the pool with a big splash and a twist ending.

Todah: I Am Grateful authored by Michelle A. Orrelle and illustrated by Ailie Busby

• Interest Level: PreK

Wake up, stretch, and celebrate the joy in every moment with a big “Todah!” From morning giggles to sweet dreams, this vibrant story will inspire kids and parents to be grateful for each part of their day!

New in Nonfiction

Gender Inequality in Sports, 2nd Edition: Leveling the Playing Field by Kirstin Cronn-Mills

• Interest Level: 8 – 12

Despite landmark legislation such as Title IX, gender inequality still exists in sports. In this new edition, investigate current challenges to Title IX, learn about the issues today’s athletes face, and explore how we could level the playing field for everyone.

Praise for Gender Inequality in Sports: From Title IX to World Titles

“A thought-provoking look at women’s history and its ongoing debates.”—Booklist

“Necessary reading, particularly for those who think the battle is won and done.”—Kirkus Reviews

“[A] helpful tool for understanding the history of the Title IX law and its impact on sports communities.”—Children’s Literature

Plan It, Test It, Solve It: Solving Problems with the Sesame Street Mecha Builders by Nicole Gabor

• Interest Level: PreK – 2

Plan it, test it, solve it! Young readers join the Sesame Street Mecha Builders in learning critical thinking skills to solve everyday problems.

New in Middle Grade Fiction

Choir Grrrl Ashley Granillo

• Interest Level: 5 – 8

Thirteen-year-old Alondra fronts an alt-rock band she formed with her sisters under her dad’s guidance, but she secretly joins a choir group at school. Can she bring the different parts of her life into harmony?

Praise for Choir Grrrl

“Granillo’s lyrical text demonstrates the creative power of music to express new ideas, make meaningful connections, and heal damaged hearts. . . .Choir and band nerds will love this story featuring found families and musical joy.”—Booklist

“Warm and funny with strong, realistic characters, Granillo’s sophomore novel explores issues including parental conflict and the representation of girls, women, and Latine people in rock. . . An emotional, well-realized story about finding your voice.”—Kirkus Reviews

“Tackling tough topics like identity, divorce, family conflict, and learning disabilities, this novel is unafraid to confront big issues facing young readers today. For older middle grade readers, this coming-of-age, feminist story will inspire readers to find their own paths.”—School Library Journal

Rules for Liars by Debra Garfinkle and April Patten

• Interest Level: 3 – 7

Two girls, struggling with grief, guilt, and self-identity, find unexpected friendship in each other. As Rebecca prepares for her bat mitzvah and Nikki navigates her family’s downfall, they learn to face their challenges together.

Praise for Rules for Liars

“A tender, insightful exploration of friendship, forgiveness, and the courage to live authentically.”—Kirkus Reviews

New in YA Fiction

Beyond Seven Forests by Amanda McCrina

• Interest Level: 9 – 12

In 1916, amidst World War I, a blizzard traps eighteen-year-old Polish countess Renata in her home with two Polish deserters from the Russian army. Together they must not only survive but grapple with wartime scars.

Praise for Beyond Seven Forests

“A thoughtful examination of boundaries between right and wrong, carried by the moral tension and strength of the characters, this novel challenges readers to question ethical certainties. Sharp, compelling, and thoughtful.”—Kirkus Reviews

“It’s a complex narrative rendered in the protagonist’s measured voice and filled with references to Polish class distinctions and history.”—Publishers Weekly

“For fans of Libba Bray and Ruta Sepetys, this is a well-written, suspenseful story, which would be a great addition to YA sections.”—School Library Journal

New in Graphic Novels

The Case of the Carnival Monster authored by Chi-hyeon Ahn, illustrated by Gyung-hyo Kang, and translated by Gloria Ohe

• Interest Level: 4 – 6

A shadowy monster has been spotted at an abandoned amusement park! What dangers await the Mystery Science Detectives in the ruins of this dilapidated carnival? Can science solve this monster mystery?

Praise for Mystery Science Detectives series

The Case of the Forest Fingers

“Slightly spooky and brimming with action, this mystery is definitely a crowd-pleaser.”—Kirkus Reviews

“The first in this comic book series is motivated equally by mystery and STEM, making it an attractive formula for curious readers.”—School Library Journal

The Case of the Bloody Statue

“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

Along Came a Spider: In Spring authored and illustrated by Raymond McGrath

• Interest Level: PreK – 2

Bird is finally out on his own, but he’s having a hard time finding friends. That’s when Spider swings on by, catching his eye. But they can’t possibly be best friends . . . or can they?

Praise for Along Came a Spider: In Spring

“This sweet comic marks the beginning of a beautiful, blossoming friendship.”—Kirkus Reviews

“McGrath has crafted a sweet and silly friendship story that hits the right notes for transitional readers.”—School Library Journal

New in Paperback

Cruzita and the Mariacheros by Ashley Granillo

• Interest Level: Grades 6 – 8

Cruzita wants to be a pop star. She doesn’t want to take mariachi lessons—until she and her fellow mariacheros come up with a plan to save her family’s struggling bakery and to let Cruzita shine.

Praise for Cruzita and the Mariacheros

• Pura Belpré Children’s Author Honor Book
• ALA Notable Children’s Book
• Bank Street College of Education’s Best Children’s Books of the Year 2025

★”Mariachi, family, and pan dulce are the ingredients for this perfect middle grade novel. Highly recommended for all middle grade collections.”—starred, School Library Journal

“Granillo gently tempers the Tayahuas’ grief over Tio Chuy’s death by focusing on the characters’ lighthearted developing relationships and relates the feeling of being disconnected from one’s heritage via Cruzita’s learning more about her roots.”—Publishers Weekly

“Cruz’s inner conflict and search for identity are sensitively drawn, and Granillo weaves a believable sense of community pride into the heartfelt and enjoyable story.”—Horn Book Magazine

You Can Do It, Bert! authored and illustrated by Ole Könnecke and illustrated by Catherine Chidgey

• Interest Level: Grades 6 – 8

This is Bert’s big day. He is well prepared, mentally and physically. But he might need some encouragement. You Can Do It, Bert! is a joyful picture book with a light as a feather story about taking a risk and believing in yourself. This minimalist masterpiece gives a boost to readers of all ages.

Praise for You Can Do It, Bert!

★”Konnecke’s (Anton and the Battle) single-plane vignettes are gems of minimalist visual humor. . . . It’s a smart lesson for readers.”—starred, Publishers Weekly

“A winning example of less is more.” —Kirkus Reviews

“With minimalistic illustrations, an expressive little orange bird, and lots of white space on each page, the book is a natural for preschool storytimes. A good choice for those embarking on a new adventure.”—School Library Journal