Books for Kids and Tweens
January 2026

Recent Releases
Xolo
by Donna Barba Higuera; illustrated by Mariana Ruiz Johnson

In Aztec mythology, the feathered serpent god Quetzalcoatl gets the credit for reviving humanity after their destruction. But in this eye-catching and emotional graphic novel, dog-headed Xolotl (god of lightning, misfortune, and death) proves himself as the real hero. For fans of: underdog characters and bright, bold artwork. (Ages 7-10.)
 
How to Free a Jinn
by Raidah Shah Idil

When anxious middle-schooler Insyirah and her mom move from Australia to Malaysia to care for her grandmother, Insyirah makes a startling discovery: she's inherited the ability to see powerful spirits known as jinn. This supernatural thriller is packed with excitement and Malaysian mythology. (Ages 8-12.)
 
At the Speed of Gus
by Richard Scrimger

For 13-year-old Gus, having ADHD means that his racing thoughts can become a maze, and sometimes it's tough to separate imagination from reality. When a school suspension gives him time to visit his sister on Vancouver Island, the journey is anything but straightforward. This honest, funny whirlwind of a story offers a peek into one kid's brain. (Ages 9-12.)
 
Asterwood
by Jacquelyn Stolos

After a violet-eyed girl leads her down a forbidden path in the woods, 10-year-old Madelyn discovers magical forest-dwellers, terrifying cannibals, greedy Tree Eaters, and the truth about the mother she's never known. If you love a deep dive into a complicated fantasy world, don't miss this dark, spellbinding tale. (Ages 8-12.)
 
The Treasure of Ocean Parkway
by Sarvenaz Tash

Podcasting sleuths Amin and Roya are thrilled when their neighbor Thea brings them a new case: a secret room filled with puzzling clues that lead the trio on a treasure hunt throughout their New York apartment building. The Treasure of Ocean Parkway is a follow-up to The Queen of Ocean Parkway, but this cozy and clever mystery can be enjoyed by fans and newcomers alike. (Ages 9-13.)
 
Bad Cheerleader
by Alex Thayer

Seventh-grader Margaret, aka Bag, is determined. She doesn't let dyslexia stop her from being a bookworm. And when she realizes that her cheerleader sister Minerva is hiding something, she doesn't let her lack of school spirit stop her from joining the cheer squad to learn the truth. Read-alike: Miss Liberty by Erin Moonyeen Haley. (Ages 10-13.)
 
Ask your librarian for more great books!
Kawartha Lakes Public Library
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Kawartha Lakes, Ontario K9V 2Y6
705-324-9411 x 1291

www.kawarthalakeslibrary.ca