In this Issue

📚 New This Month
✨ New in Your Favorite Series
🎨 Graphic Novel Spotlight
🔎 True Tales & Cool Facts
Browse through some of the best new releases for elementary and junior high-aged kids!
 
Visit any SCLS branch to see the latest and greatest titles for all ages--look for the New Materials shelves.
 
Looking for a curated recommendation or list? Request a book bundle or and "If You Like..." recommendation.

📚 New This Month

Renegades #1: The Magic Awakens by Erin Hunter
Renegades #1: The Magic Awakens
by Erin Hunter

The launch of a brand-new series from blockbuster Warriors author Erin Hunter about two orphaned cat sisters who discover a secret world of magical creatures . . . and the humans who are out to control them. After a fire destroys their shelter, sisters Willow and Luna uncover a hidden world of magical animals and dangerous human witches. As Luna embraces her powers and Willow resists, the sisters find themselves pulled onto different paths that could change the fate of the city forever.
Wombat Waiting by Katherine Applegate
Wombat Waiting
by Katherine Applegate

From the Newbery Award-winning, #1 New York Times bestselling author of The One and Only Ivan and Odder comes a stunning middle grade standalone novel-in-verse about compassion, resilience, and surprising friendships, following a dog named Wombat in the aftermath of a catastrophic fire. After surviving a devastating wildfire, a homeless dog nicknamed Wombat waits faithfully outside a temporary community center, certain she is meant to find her person. As the recovering town gathers around her, Wombat forms unexpected bonds with both humans and rescued animals while holding onto hope. Fans of modern classics like Because of Winn-Dixie, Pax, and Katherine Applegate's own Crenshaw and Odder will find a friend in Wombat and her story.
Styx and Stones by Gary D. Schmidt
Styx and Stones
by Gary D. Schmidt

Percy Jackson meets The Labors of Hercules Beal in this hilarious, page-turning fantasy adventure with a heart of gold from two award-winning authors. After centuries trapped in the Underworld, Simon suddenly escapes into the modern world—landing in a middle school bathroom with no idea how anything works. With help from an awkward but loyal classmate named Zeke, Simon navigates friendship, school, and the dangers of being hunted by Hades himself. Filled with Greek mythology, humor, and action, this unforgettable adventure explores courage, identity, and what it means to belong.
The Last Immortals: Dawn of the Axolotl by Kit Brooks
The Last Immortals: Dawn of the Axolotl
by Kit Brooks

Abandoned at birth, Ace the axolotl struggles to survive both human and animal predators in his quest to save himself--and his entire species--in this epic middle grade fantasy for fans of Warrior Cats. After being left for dead by his own twin brother, Ace must survive dangerous waters, deadly predators, and poisoned habitats while learning whom he can trust. When he discovers a mysterious axolotl with the power of immortality, Ace is drawn into a risky journey filled with betrayal, courage, and unexpected friendship. Don't miss the next adventures in The Last Immortals: Rise of the Rebels (#2) & A Poison Descends (#3)
Making Waves by Lee Heart
Making Waves
by Lee Heart

A girl meets the perfect boy on the first day of a cruise only to lose track of him on the ship in this latest installment in the tween middle grade rom-com series, Spotlight Sprinkles. Emma is so excited for summer vacation to officially start. She's going on a cruise with her family for five amazing days. The first day they board the boat, she meets Justin, who is probably the cutest guy ever. And he's smart and nice and Emma thinks he might like her... But between drama with her twin stepsisters and being busy making new friends on the boat, it's hard to find Justin anywhere. And Emma doesn't think he's even going to the farewell dance. Will she be able to talk to Justin before the trip is over?
The After-School Kindness Crew: Pooch on the Loose #1 by Goldie Hawn
The After-School Kindness Crew: Pooch on the Loose #1
by Goldie Hawn

From beloved Academy Award-winning Hollywood star Goldie Hawn and New York Times bestselling author Lin Oliver comes an inspiring series about friendship, community, and the power of kindness. When classmates Tony, Mia, and River find themselves together in Ms. Gold's classroom, a friendship quickly forms and leads them to creating the After-School Kindness Crew. Join the trio as they bring joy to those around them, with laughs, adventures, and brain breaks along the way.
The Second Life of Snap by Erin Entrada Kelly
The Second Life of Snap
by Erin Entrada Kelly

Twelve-year-old Zuzu Santos doesn't want a robot. She and her best friends, otherwise known as the Valleycats, would rather explore Bright Valley on their own. But then Zuzu meets Snap, a know-it-all guardian robot with a limited battery life and an abundance of hope.  An excellent choice for fans of The Wild Robot, A Rover's Story, and Erin Entrada Kelly's own We Dream of Space.
✨ New in Your Favorite Series
Defending the Swamp Dragon: A Branches Book (Dragon Masters #31): Volume 31 by Tracey West
Defending the Swamp Dragon: A Branches Book (Dragon Masters #31): Volume 31
by Tracey West

Drake and his friend Obi meet a new Dragon Master, Kinti, and venture into the swamp to help save the Swamp Dragon, who has been mistaken for a terrifying monster.
My Weirdtastic School #11: Mr. Dipilla Is a Gorilla! by Dan Gutman
My Weirdtastic School #11: Mr. Dipilla Is a Gorilla!
by Dan Gutman

A.J. and his friends lost the spelling bee to those pesky kids at Dirk School. Could Dirk’s school mascot have anything to do with it? It quickly becomes clear that Ella Mentry School will need a mascot if they ever want to win again! Then, a mysterious gorilla mascot shows up at Ella Mentry School. His presence starts raising morale—he even makes A.J. like coming to school! But will the rise of school spirit be enough to help A.J. and Andrea beat Dirk School in the geography bee, or is this competition set to be another embarrassing defeat?
Legend of the Sea Dragon: A Branches Book (Unicorn Diaries #12) by Rebecca Elliott
Legend of the Sea Dragon: A Branches Book (Unicorn Diaries #12)
by Rebecca Elliott

On a trip to Silver Shell Beach, Bo and the other unicorns are determined to meet the legendary sea dragon. But first, they have to make sure she's real!
The Guardians' Glow: Adventure Stories for K-Pop Fans (Book 4) by Mina Finch
The Guardians' Glow: Adventure Stories for K-Pop Fans (Book 4)
by Mina Finch

An action-packed fantasy series for middle grade fans of K-pop and the hottest animated movie of the decade. An inter-school showcase pits K-Pop Academy against its fiercest rivals. Spirit guardians summoned by performances dazzle the crowds -- but when one guardian goes rogue, the competition turns deadly. Hana's team must face sabotage, betrayals, and the toxic side of fandom to protect each other and prove their loyalty is unbreakable.
The Academy VI: Rise of the Scorpions by T. Z. Layton
The Academy VI: Rise of the Scorpions
by T. Z. Layton

Fresh off his success with the junior national soccer team, Leo K. Doyle is back in England and playing for the U16s, where he'll be a newbie all over again.Will Leo get any playing time? Can he work his way into a starting lineup filled with older, bigger, and more experienced players?Unfortunately, the move to a new division might be the easy part. There's a new contender in the Youth Prem--the Southwark F.C. Scorpions--who have a roster full of superstars that play to win at any cost. They're the dirtiest, roughest team Leo has ever faced, led by an old enemy who cheats at every turn. Meeting a pretty girl. An intense race for the title. Dealing with a tragedy that threatens to ruin the whole season.Whew.Playing at the highest level is never easy, but this might be Leo's toughest season yet. Can he and his friends overcome their challenges and make another run at the title?

🎨 Graphic Novel Spotlight

Atomic Lucas: A Magical Graphic Novel Volume 1 by Pirate Sourcil
Atomic Lucas: A Magical Graphic Novel Volume 1
by Pirate Sourcil

When Lucas uses the magical, wish-granting Gloom Stone on his 13th birthday, he thinks he's hit the jackpot. Wishes? Granted. Problems? Solved. Life? Perfect. Except . . . maybe not. Between a climate crusader best friend, a stuffed animal who won't zip it, a never-ending wishlist that spirals wildly out of control, and a time traveling great-great-great-great-grandfather with a thirst for revenge, Lucas quickly learns getting everything you want isn't all it's cracked up to be. Perfect for fans of Hilo, Dog Man, Diary of an 8-Bit Warrior, and Amulet, reluctant readers, and those who like fantasy with a twist.
The New Girl: First Crush: A Graphic Novel (the New Girl #2) by Cassandra Calin
The New Girl: First Crush: A Graphic Novel (the New Girl #2)
by Cassandra Calin

This middle-grade graphic novel about crushing and being crushed is the perfect next read for fans of Guts by Raina Telgemeier, Fruitcake by Rex Ogle and Dave Valeza, and Parachute Kids by Betty C. Tang.
Lia is finally feeling settled into her new life. Her friends are amazing, her French is improving, and her periods... ugh, those are still terrible. But Lia's crush, Julien, is noticing her. Lia thinks he likes her, but she can't tell for sure. And while she's obsessing over him, Lia's not noticing another person's growing crush on HER. With so many big feelings and even bigger changes, could things get any worse?
Ready, Cassette, Go! by Jarett Sitter
Ready, Cassette, Go!
by Jarett Sitter

A debut graphic novel series with retro vibes, summer hangs, and new friendships. Welcome to Cassette City, the coolest place full of arcades, skate parks, monster movie marathons, and music. On cassette tape, of course! When a wisecracking racoon, a sentient mushroom, and a robot with big feelings recruit the stand-offish new girl Melody Li to help them win the Battle of the Bands, Melody might just learn that these misfit musicians are actually the friends she really needs. After all, life is better when you band together!
Junie B. Jones and Her Big Fat Mouth: The Graphic Novel by Barbara Park
Junie B. Jones and Her Big Fat Mouth: The Graphic Novel
by Barbara Park

Junie B. is in big trouble. She told everyone in Room 9 that she'd have the best job in the whole world for job day . . . only how's she supposed to figure out what that is?  Can Junie B. figure it out fast . . . or is everyone in Room 9 going think she's a big fibber? Look for more Junie B. Jones graphic novels: - Junie B. Jones and the Stupid Smelly Bus: The Graphic Novel- Junie B. Jones and a Little Monkey Business: The Graphic Novel
Karen's Surprise: A Graphic Novel (Baby-Sitters Little Sister #12) by Ann M. Martin
Karen's Surprise: A Graphic Novel (Baby-Sitters Little Sister #12)
by Ann M. Martin

Another graphic novel in this fun series spin-off of The Baby-sitters Club, adapted and illustrated by bestselling author and Mimi series creator Shauna J. Grant! Karen and her classmates are putting on a play about a grand Thanksgiving feast. She wants the starring role, of course, but she is given the worst part of all -- the Thanksgiving turkey! All she gets to do is walk across the stage in a big brown costume and say one or two lines.Will everyone laugh at Karen the Turkey? Not when they see her big surprise!

🔎 True Tales & Cool Facts

America Is Wild!: A State-By-State Encyclopedia of American Wildlife by Brad Timm
America Is Wild!: A State-By-State Encyclopedia of American Wildlife
by Brad Timm

America is WILD.

Whether you are admiring wildflowers in one of the spectacular National Parks, or listening to birdsong in Brooklyn, America is abuzz with wildlife, from birds, to bees, to bugs and blooms. Inside you'll discover: One iconic mammal, bird, insect, and plant from each U.S. state. Fascinating facts about adaptations, habitats, and cultural significance. Detailed illustrations that bring every species to life. Expert insights from Brad Timm, wildlife ecologist and educator with a Ph.D. in Wildlife Conservation. 
Bat Planet: The Mysterious Life of the Creatures of the Night by Neil Griffin
Bat Planet: The Mysterious Life of the Creatures of the Night
by Neil Griffin

Part of the nonfiction Orca Wild series for middle-grade readers and illustrated with color photographs throughout, this book explores bats and their biology, habitat, relationship with humans and threats to their survival.
Crochet Basics for Children: For Children Aged 7+ Years: Learn to Crochet Fun and Easy Toys, Accessories, and Gifts by Cico Kidz
Crochet Basics for Children: For Children Aged 7+ Years: Learn to Crochet Fun and Easy Toys, Accessories, and Gifts
by Cico Kidz

A STEP-BY-STEP guide packed full of FUN, COLORFUL, and SIMPLE crochet projects, perfect for CHILDREN AGED 7+. Features TOYS, ACCESSORIES, and BEDROOM DECORATIONS that children will love to make, from a cute lion toy to a pompom hat and a caterpillar draft excluder. Requiring just a hook and some yarn to get going, crochet is a brilliant way for children to learn a new skill, build their confidence, and boost their creativity. Starting with a clear techniques section that explains all the essential skills and stitches, this easy-to-follow guide will inspire children to crochet fun projects to keep or give as gifts.
How to Be a Soccer Star and Other Jobs on and Off the Field by Rachel Yankey
How to Be a Soccer Star and Other Jobs on and Off the Field
by Rachel Yankey

Do you have what it takes to become a professional soccer player, sports broadcaster, or oversee operations at a world-class stadium? Find out what it's like to work in the exciting, high-profile world of professional soccer whether on the field or behind-the-scenes.. Discover the ways in which each person and job is integral to the soccer industry--whether they are taking the field as a player or coach, running games as a referee, scouting talent from all over the world, or keeping players well-fed and healthy as a team chef. 
Who Am I? Axolotls and Other Amphibians: Read-Aloud Axolotl, Reptilian and Amphibian Book with Playful Rhymes, Puzzles and Guessing Games, Animal Ency by Jody Jensen Shaffer
Who Am I? Axolotls and Other Amphibians: Read-Aloud Axolotl, Reptilian and Amphibian Book with Playful Rhymes, Puzzles and Guessing Games, Animal Ency
by Jody Jensen Shaffer

In Who Am I? Axolotls and Other Amphibians, kids follow a unique two-spread structure: first, a rhyming riddle paired with a puzzling, distorted photograph that dares readers to guess the animal. Then, a satisfying reveal shows the answer in stunning art and layout--complete with fascinating, expert-reviewed facts. From axolotls to red-eyed tree frogs, each amphibian leaps off the page with playful rhyme, clever riddles, and eye-opening science.
Where Is the International Space Station? by Dana Meachen Rau
Where Is the International Space Station?
by Dana Meachen Rau

Learn how the International Space Station has helped scientists from all over the world research outer space, natural disasters, the human body, and more since its construction in 1998--featuring a full-color foldout map! Thanks to the station, humans have been able to conduct experiments and collect data in a way that they had never done before. Today, over 280 astronauts from over twenty countries have visited the International Space Station. The contributions to STEM and space exploration aboard the ISS are far-reaching and ongoing for space programs around the world.
Invented by Animals: Meet the Creatures Who Inspired Our Everyday Technology by Christiane Dorion
Invented by Animals: Meet the Creatures Who Inspired Our Everyday Technology
by Christiane Dorion

Humans may think they're the ultimate inventors, but animals have been solving problems and creating ingenious designs for millions of years. From super-speed swimmers to masters of disguise, nature's inventors have inspired some of the world's most amazing technologies--and this book reveals their secrets. Check out the snail who has invented a house that stays cool inside even in the desert, and take a closer look at the eagle whose super-zoom vision has inspired the invention of the world's tiniest and most powerful cameras. Every animal--and their invention--is a marvel in this unique non-fiction blend of science, technology, and wildlife.