Books for Kids and Tweens
June 2025
Recent Releases
J vs. K
by Kwame Alexander and Jerry Craft

The friendly trash talk between two Newbery Award-winning authors gets a funny, fictional twist in this story about cartoonist J and poet K, two rival fifth-graders each determined to win their school’s storytelling contest. This graphic novel hybrid offers plenty of jokes alongside useful advice for young artists and authors. Read-alike: The Cartoonists Club by Raina Telgemeier and Scott McCloud. (Ages 8-12.)
Return to Sender
by Vera Brosgol

While grieving his father and failing to fit in with his ultra-rich new classmates, ten-year-old foodie Oliver makes a life-changing discovery: a mysterious mail slot that grants wishes! Filled with dark humor and vivid illustrations, this tale of magic -- and consequences -- will stick with you after the final page. (Ages 8-12.)
A hero's guide to summer vacation
by Pablo Cartaya

Thirteen-year-old Cuban American Gonzalo joins his estranged grandfather on road trip to promote his grandfather's fantasy book series
Don't Cause Trouble
by Arree Chung

Ming Lee was hoping for a fresh start in middle school, but he is as desperately uncool as always – not to mention stuck in ESL even though he only speaks English. How’s he supposed to stick up for himself when his parents’ biggest rule is to keep out of trouble? This colorful graphic novel offers a relatable story inspired by the author’s real life. (Ages 9-13.)
Spirit Service
by Sarena and Sasha Nanua

After getting zapped by an unusual old rotary phone, middle school friends Raveena, Aiko, Blair, and Lillian suddenly gain the ability to talk to spirits -- and there are a lot of spirits in their eccentric hometown. Combining the upbeat friendships of The Baby-Sitters Club with creepy paranormal events, this series starter will grab lots of different readers. (Ages 8-12.)
El Niño
by Pam Muñoz Ryan; illustrated by Joe Cepeda

Two years ago, Kai’s sister Cali, a champion swimmer, disappeared in the Pacific Ocean. Now, grieving and struggling to live up to Cali’s legacy, eighth-grader Kai becomes obsessed with the legendary undersea queen Califia. Blending mythology with reality, this illustrated tale will appeal to readers who love outside-the-box storytelling. Read-alike: Secrets We Tell the Sea by Martha Riva Palacio Obón. (Ages 8-13.)
Cassi and the house of memories
by Dean Stuart

"Cassi loves spending time with her grandfather. His games, songs, and stories have always brought her endless joy. This visit with him, though, is different: Grandpa seems to be losing track of things, including everything from the stories they're sharing to who Cassi herself is. So when he goes missing after wandering off from his own backyard, Cassi knows she has to figure out where he's gone. What she discovers is a world filled with memories, none of them her own. As she leaps from one memory to thenext, she knows she's getting closer and closer to finding her grandfather-but only if she can make sure he doesn't slip away forever"
Band Nerd
by Sarah Clawson Willis; illustrated by Emma Cormarie

Seventh grade at Windley School of the Arts isn’t easy for Lucy, and her dad’s out-of-control drinking makes things difficult at home, too. Still, Lucy’s decided that she will win first-chair flute, no matter what. Clean-lined artwork keeps the focus on emotions in this moving graphic novel. (Ages 9-13.)
Contact your librarian for more great books!
Joliet Public Library
150 N Ottawa St, Joliet, Illinois 60432
(815) 740-2660

https://www.jolietlibrary.org/en/