Books for Kids and Tweens
June 2026
Recent Releases
Wombat Waiting
by Katherine Applegate

Caught on the sidelines of a deadly California wildfire, stray pup Wombat and dog-shy human kid Henry each cope with disaster in their own way. Find out what happens when their paths cross in this gripping and heartwarming tale written in an easy-to-read, poem-like style. (Ages 8-12.)
Roar
by Varsha Bajaj

While visiting a Bengal tiger sanctuary in India, Texas fifth-grader Rohan develops a special interest in tiger Arya and her twin cubs. But with the sanctuary under threat, Rohan must rally the community to save it. Narrated by both boy and tiger, this suspenseful story will grab readers who are passionate about wildlife protection. (Ages 8-12.)
The Mystery of the Stolen World Cup Trophy
by Angela Cervantes

Twelve-year-old Diez Espada loves soccer -- he was even named after Lionel Messi's jersey number. But he also adores mysteries, which is why he's eager to team up with classmate Rio and the famous Detective Enzo to recover the stolen FIFA World Cup Trophy. This fast-paced sleuth story is a perfect pick for sports fans. (Ages 8-12.)
The Second Life of Snap
by Erin Entrada Kelly

In a future devastated by climate change and ruled by tech mega-corporation Lockwood, 12-year-old Zuzu and her friends find an unlikely ally in Snap, a reprogrammed Lockwood robot who shows unusual curiosity and loyalty. This bittersweet yet optimistic read will give you lots to think about. For fans of: Peter Brown's The Wild Robot; Guojing's Oasis. (Ages 9-13.)
The Chismosas Only Book Club
by Laekan Zea Kemp

When Cat starts a book club, she hopes it will keep her bonded with friends Ana, Mari, and Sofia as they enter high school. But can their friendship withstand a year of school pressure, family challenges, and personal drama? Light touches of the supernatural add depth to this authentic slice-of-life story. (Ages 10-14.)
The Shark Prince
by Malia Maunakea

To help his family stay in their Hawaiian community, home-schooled 13-year-old Nohea Alapa'I needs to win a surf competition, and that means joining a public school surf team. The catch? He has to hide his identity as the half-human, half-shark descendent of shark king Kāmohoali'I. This modern mythological fantasy dives deep into intrigue and identity. (Ages 9-13.)
Styx and Stones
by Gary D. Schmidt and Ron Koertge

After spending 2,451 years trapped in Hades, 13-year-old Simon finally escapes through a portal...into a present-day Minnesota school bathroom. With help from lonely outsider Zeke, Simon tries to heal and adjust, even as the underworld tries to drag him back. This classics-inspired tale offers equal parts humor and hope. For fans of: Rick Riordan. (Ages 11-13.)
Diamond Fever! A True Crime Story in the Wild West
by Steve Sheinkin; illustrated by Jon Chad

History calls it the Great Diamond Hoax of 1872, but it began in 1870, when cousins Philip Arnold and John Slack began a successful con to attract investors for a diamond mine that didn't exist. Through comic strips and clever storytelling, this book (from the author of Bomb) walks you through the infamous fraud. Read-alike: Nicholas Day's The Mona Lisa Vanishes. (Ages 9-13.)
Contact your librarian for more great books!