February 2026

Program Highlight:
Making It: Paint Lab
February 4 at 4:00pm
Making It: Paint Lab
Wednesday, February 4, 4:00pm
Imagination Theater
 

Try out different types of painting methods. From Zentangles to Tape Resist Paintings, we will show you the steps to make it! All supplies will be provided.  
MAG Book Reviews
The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise by Dan Gemeinhart
The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise
by Dan Gemeinhart
 
Imagine living in a school bus crisscrossing the nation with your dad. That's been Coyote Sunrise's life since she was a kid, until one day in a twist of fate things take a turn.
 
The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise follows Coyote in her journey across the U.S of A to her hometown in Oregon, and is honestly one of the best books I have ever read.
 
It is heartwrenching, funny, and remarkably good. If you love a book about healing, grief, and happiness I highly recommend you to read this book.
 
Score: 9.1/10
Fiction
Book Details: Chapter Book, Realistic Fiction, Adventure
Format: Print
--Reviewed by Carissa W.
Save the Date:
Booking Together -- The Spindle of Fate
Saturday, March 7 at 2:00pm
 
Meet the author and enjoy a pizza party on us!
The Spindle of Fate by Aimee Lim
The Spindle of Fate
by Aimee Lim

Read The Spindle of Fate by local author Aimee Lim, then come to our program to discuss the book, learn about her writing and publishing experience, ask questions, and enjoy some pizza.

Attendees will also get a chance to win a free copy of the sequel, 
The Thread of Destiny.

Copies of the books have been generously donated by MacMillan Publishing Group.
NEW Non-Fiction!
Omnibird: an Avian Investigator's Handbook
by Giselle Clarkson

This highly illustrated, playful field guide to common international birds brings the art of observology to the science of ornithology, showing the many ways these familiar creatures are remarkable if you take time to look.
Omnibird: an Avian Investigator's Handbook by Giselle Clarkson
Our World in Numbers: Planet Earth by DK
Our World in Numbers: Planet Earth
by DK

Put the fun back into learning and take children on a number-crunching journey around our incredible planet. From microscopic minerals to majestic mountains and everything in between, learn all about planet Earth with more than 1,000 weird and wonderful numbers.
The Story of Buildings: From the Pyramids to the Sydney Opera House and Beyond
by Patrick Dillon

From the pyramid erected so that an Egyptian pharaoh would last forever to the dramatic, machine-like Pompidou Center designed by two young architects, Patrick Dillon's stories of remarkable buildings and the remarkable people who made them celebrates the ingenuity of human creation.
The Story of Buildings: From the Pyramids to the Sydney Opera House and Beyond by Patrick Dillon
Genius Eyes: A Curious Animal Compendium by Lena Anlauf
Genius Eyes: A Curious Animal Compendium
by Lena Anlauf

Ever wonder why a cat's eyes glow at night, why an alligator cries, or how the world appears to a snail? And is there anything else eyes can do besides see? Eyes can tell us a lot about animal habits and their habitats. This collection of special species from around the world is filled with amazing facts celebrating the diversity of eyes in nature.
The Whale's Song: Discover the Giants of Our Oceans
by Rossana Bossù

Whales have fascinated us for centuries--award-winning artist Rossana Bossù brings these giant, awe-inspiring creatures to life. Dive into the fascinating world of whales. Did you know that, when underwater, the heart of a blue whale can slow down to as little as two beats per minute? Or that a narwhal's famous unicorn-like horn is actually a long canine tooth? Readers will also discover how these magnificent creatures play a vital role in keeping our oceans healthy. From their enormous size to their complex behaviors, learn how these gentle giants live and thrive, and discover why they need our help now more than ever. 
The Whale's Song: Discover the Giants of Our Oceans by Rossana Bossù
Creative Writing with Miss Mary Mac: A Handbook for Young and Future Authors by Mary McInerney
Creative Writing with Miss Mary Mac: A Handbook for Young and Future Authors
by Mary McInerney

Writing doesn't have to be a chore! This graphic novel guide for aspiring writers will show you how to create your masterpiece. Authors are artists! But instead of putting paint on a canvas, they put words on a page. Writing coach Mary McInerney (aka Miss Mary Mac) will show you how to use words to express yourself--and have fun doing it! The writing exercises in this book aren't what you're used to! With Miss Mary Mac's help, you can unlock your creativity, find inspiration all around you, and develop a voice that's truly your own. When you use your imagination, writing is never boring. Follow the tips in this graphic novel guide and turn the page into your very own canvas.
Your Story Matters: A Surprisingly Practical Guide to Writing
by Richard Scrimger

Interested in writing but don't know how to get started? Love reading and want to know more about how stories are created? Like ridiculous tales about troublesome sisters, peanut butter and steamrollers? Look no further! Esteemed writer Richard Scrimger is here to answer all your burning questions about writing: whether about plot, character, structure, story hooks or commas. (Actually, don't ask him about commas, it's not that kind of book.) Using clever (so he thinks) analogies, (sort of) brilliant examples and funny (well . . .) anecdotes, he will give you (truly) useful tools to start you on your way as a writer. And if that's not enough, comic illustrations by D. McFadzean are the pepperoni on the writing pizza! (That will make sense once you read the book.) So come, read this book and start your writing journey!
Your Story Matters: A Surprisingly Practical Guide to Writing by Richard Scrimger
She'll Be the Sky: Poems by Women and Girls by Ella Risbridger
She'll Be the Sky: Poems by Women and Girls
by Ella Risbridger

From well-loved poets -- including Maya Angelou, Wendy Cope, Lucille Clifton, and Christina Rossetti -- to newer voices -- such as Amanda Gorman, Yrsa-Daley Ward, and Amineh Abou Kerech -- this outstanding collection from talented anthologist Ella Risbridger has poems for every mood and every moment. Ella's selection is wide-ranging but accessible and will appeal to poetry lovers both young and old alike.
Poetry Prompts: All Sorts of Ways to Start a Poem from Joseph Coelho
by Joseph Coelho

Discover 40 ways to write a poem, with Joseph Coelho, Children's Laureate 2022-24. An essential for any budding writer or performer. This is a fabulous resource for creative writing, with an emphasis on reading and performing poems out loud.
Poetry Prompts: All Sorts of Ways to Start a Poem from Joseph Coelho by Joseph Coelho
Scales & Tales: A Beginner's Guide to Fantasy Role-Playing Games by Kevin Sherry
Scales & Tales: A Beginner's Guide to Fantasy Role-Playing Games
by Kevin Sherry

For those looking to introduce RPGs to young players, Scales & Tales offers simple rules, easy instructions, and fun activities for family and friends to enjoy. With a breakdown of different heroes and creatures, an easy adventure full of silly creatures, and fun games and puzzles to play together, this book offers hours of fun without overwhelming young readers with game mechanics. Scales & Tales is a rule book, an easy instruction manual, and an activity book all in one! With clear and concise language, along with adorable illustrations, this book serves as the perfect introduction to role-playing games for kids and parents alike. Everything a new player would need to start a tabletop role-playing game: imagination starters, heroes, drawing games, monsters, epic quests, and more! Scales & Tales contains ways of augmenting your traditional End-Boss Combat with fun drawing games and party puzzles. Games like: Telephone, Blind drawing, and Pictionary-like games. With fun illustrations, clear instructions, and kid-friendly games to slay the enemy, this book will bring in players of all ages for hours of fun.
How to Spot a Magical Woodland Creature: A Field Guide to Enchanted Forest Animals
by Sarah Glenn Marsh

There are enchanting creatures all around us, but they'll try to keep out of sight unless you know what to look for! For intrepid seekers and readers of How to Spot a Fairy, here's how to note them all! For centuries, enchanted woodland creatures have lived alongside us in the treetops, forests, caves, and streams that make up our natural world. Often mistaken for ordinary animals, there's more than meets the eye when you come upon one. This illustrated compendium of magical woodland creatures explores the history and mythology of these oft-sought beings. From bears and beavers to woodpeckers, dragonflies, snakes, and more, How to Spot a Magical Woodland Creature offers tips on how to seek out the enchanted animals living among us. With interactive quizzes and crafts, there's endless fun and adventure to be had in this field guide to woodland magic!
How to Spot a Magical Woodland Creature: A Field Guide to Enchanted Forest Animals by Sarah Glenn Marsh
Sweet & Salty!: King Arthur Baking Company's Cookbook for Young Bakers by King Arthur Baking Company
Sweet & Salty!: King Arthur Baking Company's Cookbook for Young Bakers
by King Arthur Baking Company

From the most trusted American baking resource comes an all-new, kid-friendly collection wonderfully sweet and savory recipes that will get young chefs excited for the world baking. Including a comprehensive introduction to the terms and techniques that they will need, this book contains everything from simple chocolate cakes and chewy peanut and nougat candy bars to personal pizzas and stuffin' muffins!The recipes cover three different variations in difficulty so everyone can go at their own pace. KING ARTHUR BAKING COMPANY'S KIDS' BAKING BOOK is here to share the joy of baking with chefs of all ages and bring the fun to the kitchen for the whole family!
Cracking the Code: The Human Quest to Uncover Secrets
by Rachel Kehoe

Part of the nonfiction Orca Timeline series for middle-grade readers, this illustrated book looks at the past, present and future of codes and codebreaking.
Cracking the Code: The Human Quest to Uncover Secrets by Rachel Kehoe
Nature's Best Hope (Young Readers' Edition): How You Can Save the World in Your Own Yard by Douglas W. Tallamy
Nature's Best Hope (Young Readers' Edition): How You Can Save the World in Your Own Yard
by Douglas W. Tallamy

This middle grade adaptation of Doug Tallamy's Nature's Best Hope is an essential introduction to conservation, ecology, biodiversity, and the impact of native plants.
Creatively Human: Why We Imagine, Make and Innovate
by Lois Peterson

Part of the nonfiction Orca Think series, this illustrated book for middle-grade readers explores creativity and how it affects our lives and our world.
Creatively Human: Why We Imagine, Make and Innovate by Lois Peterson
How to Be a Color Wizard: Forage and Experiment with Natural Art Making by Jason Logan
How to Be a Color Wizard: Forage and Experiment with Natural Art Making
by Jason Logan

What colors might await in a leafy forest, a berry-stained back alley, a seaweedy beach, or even the dark corners of an ordinary fridge? With this book as a guide, curious young wizards can make natural confetti, unlock the hidden color power inside a leaf, and craft a paintbrush wand. They'll brew magic potions from beets and acorn caps to produce their own colors, from the darkest black to the palest pink to invisible ink, then share their discoveries with friends, family, and the whole color-hungry human race. With whimsy and infectious enthusiasm, master ink maker Jason Logan explains the science of color while presenting 'quests,' recipes, and hands-on activities using materials kids can find in their own homes and neighborhoods.
3 Weeks in the Rainforest: A Rapid Inventory in the Amazon
by Jennifer Swanson

A team of scientists from the Field Museum works with local communities and the Colombian government to conduct a cooperative survey of the Amazon rainforest. After three weeks in the field, the team shares its findings and makes recommendations for protecting the region's biological and cultural diversity.
3 Weeks in the Rainforest: A Rapid Inventory in the Amazon by Jennifer Swanson
February Programs
Game Day
Thursday, January 15, 12:30-3:30pm
Imagination Theater
Join friends for tabletop card games and board games!
Light snacks will be served to attendees.
Middle School Advisory
Group (MAG) Meeting

Wednesday, February 18, 4:00-5:00pm
Imagination Theater
Join the Middle School Advisory Group (MAG) to give library staff valuable feedback and assistance for programs, resources, and more! Get the chance to make a difference for middle school students at the library and earn volunteer experience.

For more information, please contact Children's Librarian Amanda Coleman at acoleman@arcadiaca.gov or 626-821-4379.
Highlighted Booklist: Sweet Romance Reads
Sweet Romances for Middle Schoolers
 
Check out our booklist for recommendations of age-appropriate and fun middle school romance books! 
 
Pick up select titles from our display in the Jerry Broadwell Children's Room this month.
NEW Fiction!
What Happened Then by Erin Soderberg Downing
What Happened Then
by Erin Soderberg Downing

Avery is a firecracke...Her cousin, Jax, is a wall flower, because sometimes it's better to stay quiet when the alternative is to be told that you're doing or saying everything wrong. They seem to be the only ones who don't know what happened years ago when their family shattered and went off in different directions. When their beloved Aunt Robbie...delivers some devastating news. Avery and Jax learn that by the end of the summer, the island that's been a part of their family for generations is going upfor sale. Forced to stay on the island with their estranged family to get it into shape to sell, Avery and Jax begin to dig through the history of the long-abandoned house and its contents...including a sprinkling of diary pages that were hidden around the island decades ago, the summer their family was torn apart.
The Beasts Beneath the Winds: Tales of Southeast Asia's Mythical Creatures
by Hanna Alkaf

A sweeping and magical story collection showcasing the mythical creatures of Southeast Asia, including work by two-time Newbery medalist Erin Entrada Kelly and National Book Award finalist Shing Yin Khor A turtle the size of an island. A cricket that can possess you if swallowed. A giant who turns enemies to stone. The legends of Southeast Asia--or the lands below the winds, as explorers used to call it--are populated with a whole menagerie of colorful beasts that inspire awe and fear in equal measure. Yet, passed on as they are through story and song, so many of these stories remain rooted in some long-forgotten past and bound by the borders of the region, creatures of myth and memory and nothing more. Until now. Welcome to The Beasts Beneath the Winds, a collection of Southeast Asia's most elusive cryptids by a team of bestselling and award-winning authors. Listeners will find the stories of seventeen regular kids who encounter these mythical creatures in the here and now, and--fortunately or unfortunately--live to tell the tale.
The Beasts Beneath the Winds: Tales of Southeast Asia's Mythical Creatures by Hanna Alkaf
Three Blue Hearts by Lynne Kelly
Three Blue Hearts
by Lynne Kelly

Max can't seem to escape the big, looming shadow of his politician dad. But for the next few months, Max and his mom are going away to a quiet Texas beach town where Max can be someone else. Someone who doesn't make dumb mistakes that embarrass his father--someone who knows how to be strong. He stumbles on his fresh start right away, when he finds an injured octopus washed up onshore after a storm. With the help of a local wildlife center and a couple of new friends, Max rescues the octopus--who they name Ursula--and vows to take care of her until she's ready to return to the sea. But as their bond deepens and Max makes unexpected discoveries that turn his summer upside down, Max's true strength will be put to the test. Can he keep his promise after all?
Words Apart
by Aimee Lucido

As their parents' divorce reshapes their family, eleven-year-old word-loving Olive and her thirteen-year-old art-loving sister Mattie struggle to navigate changing friendships, secrets, and their drifting bond.
Words Apart by Aimee Lucido
Confessions from the Group Chat by Jodi Meadows
Confessions from the Group Chat
by Jodi Meadows

Virginia Vaughn just wants to fit in with her super-popular friend group. That means she doesn't let them know how much she loves the library, she never speaks a word about her massive crush on tragically unpopular Grayson, and she says nasty things she doesn't actually mean. But only in the group chat, so it's harmless, right? But when she has a blowout fight with her clique--specifically, with the Queen Bee herself--her mean texts are posted online for the entire school to see. And, suddenly, Virginia has no one but her cat to talk to. Cue 'Knight Errant, ' a mystery boy at school who texts Virginia by accident--and who quickly becomes her closest confidante--
Holding on for Dear Life
by Dusti Bowling

Acclaimed author Dusti Bowling takes the bull by the horns in this moving novel about a boy struggling to keep his family together while facing the side effects of bull riding.
Holding on for Dear Life by Dusti Bowling
Scaring and Daring: Terrifying Takes on 15 Classic Tales: A Horror Writers Association Anthology by Horror Writers Association
Scaring and Daring: Terrifying Takes on 15 Classic Tales: A Horror Writers Association Anthology
by Horror Writers Association

A short-story middle grade anthology that reimagines classic tales for contemporary audiences with terrifying results--
Maple's Formula for Victory
by Kate McMillan

Sixth-grader and aspiring astronaut Maple McNutt chronicles her foray into the high-stakes world of middle school track in this diary-style illustrated novel--
Maple's Formula for Victory by Kate McMillan
Iceberg by Jennifer A. Nielsen
Iceberg
by Jennifer A. Nielsen

Twelve-year-old Hazel Rothbury stows away aboard the Titanic and, with the help of a porter named Charlie and a first-class passenger named Sylvia, she sets out to explore the great ship, uncovering a haunting mystery--until the ship hits an iceberg and she must fight to save herself and her friends.
Skandar and the Spirit War
by A. F. Steadman

The Island is at war. Skandar, now an outlaw, is in hiding after Rex Manning revealed a game-changing secret at the Chaos Cup. But as Rex prepares to invade the Mainland, the Islanders are not sure who to trust. With one of Skandar's closest friends now fighting for the enemy, Skandar must build new alliances--including an uneasy truce with Kenna. To defeat Rex, Skandar and his friends will need to look back to the origins of the Island and harness the full power of their elemental magic. Can Skandar become the leader he needs to be--to save the Mainland, and the heart of the Island itself?--
Skandar and the Spirit War by A. F. Steadman
To check on the availability of an item, click on the cover to go to our online catalog.
 
Thanks for reading!!
       Library Logo 20 West Duarte Road
Arcadia, California 91006
(626) 821-5569 www.arcadiaca.gov/library
Facebook   Twitter  
youtube   Instagram