Books for Kids and TweensSeptember 2025
Recent Releases
The Library of Unruly Treasures
by Jeanne Birdsall; illustrated by Matt Phelan

One summer, lonely 11-year-old Gwen finds unexpected friendship: first, with her kind great-uncle Matthew, and then with the Lahdukan, a hidden clan of tiny, winged people who declare Gwen their new leader. Readers who love sincere, old-fashioned fantasy will relish this tale of magic in the real world. (Ages 8-12.)
I survived the Japanese Tsunami, 2011 / :  I Survived the Japanese Tsunami, 2011 by Georgia Ball
I survived the Japanese Tsunami, 2011 / : I Survived the Japanese Tsunami, 2011
by Georgia Ball

Ben is visiting Japan when an earthquake rocks the coastal village and a tsunami sweeps Ben and his family away and apart, leaving Ben alone and stranded, in a graphic novel that includes facts and photos about the real-life event. Simultaneous. Gr 4-6
The Forest of a Thousand Eyes
by Frances Hardinge; illustrated by Emily Gravett

In Feather’s world, the crumbling Wall is humanity’s only shield from the deadly, uncontrollable Forest. But when a stranger threatens her community, Feather has no choice but to venture beyond the Wall and into the unknown. Even though it’s short, this illustrated fantasy is sure to grip your imagination. (Ages 8-13.)
The Last Resort
by Erin Entrada Kelly

When 11-year-old Lila arrives at her deceased Grandpa Clem’s inn, she discovers that it’s packed with ghosts -- including Grandpa Clem himself, who wants Lila to investigate his supposed murder. This paranormal thriller series starter features interactive QR codes, but you don’t have to use them to enjoy the eerie vibes. Next in the series: The Claiming by Jasmine Warga, out in 2026. (Ages 8-12.)
Blood in the Water by Tiffany D. Jackson
Blood in the Water
by Tiffany D. Jackson

Sharp-minded 12-year-old Brooklynite Kaylani is stuck spending the summer with wealthy family friends in Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts. It’s okay at first, but after a local teenager is found dead, Kaylani’s instincts push her to investigate. The dangerous results will keep you turning pages in this gripping thriller. (Ages 9-12.) 
Greta ever after by Melissa Dassori
Greta ever after
by Melissa Dassori

Twelve-year-old Greta, feeling invisible at her school newspaper, takes matters into her own hands to find the perfect story while also dealing with a magical cuckoo clock at home
Wish I Was a Baller
by Amar Shah; illustrated by Rashad Doucet

These days, author Amar Shah is a professional sports journalist. But in 1995, he was a basketball-obsessed 14-year-old who wanted to learn everything about his sports heroes. This fast-paced graphic memoir offers a look at the triumphs and challenges of chasing your dreams. (Ages 10-13.)
How to draw a secret by Cindy Chang
How to draw a secret
by Cindy Chang

Twelve-year-old Cindy relishes drawing flawless images but is stumped by the art contest prompt of“What family means to me” as her dad returned to Taiwan years ago, in a story about finding one's voice to save what matters most. Simultaneous and eBook.
Contact your librarian for more great books!
Walla Walla County Rural Library District
37 Jade street, Walla Walla, Washington 99362
509-527-3284

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