Now Read This!
SEPTEMBER 2026
 
Our Now Read This! newsletters offer suggestions for your next favorite read, from hidden gems to the latest hot pick. In this issue, you will find a literacy tip of the month, a special event worth checking out, a curated selection of newly acquired and upcoming titles for children, and booklists for further reading. Whether you prefer picture books or middle grade fiction, your friendly BPL Youth Services Librarians have recommendations for every reader.
 
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Literacy Tip of the Month

Did You Know?
 
When reading to your little one, you don't always have to read a book cover-to-cover. If your child is wiggly and doesn't want to sit still, you can take breaks, or try again later. Reading time that's brief but enjoyable is much better than forcing something that makes everyone unhappy.
 
It's also good to remember that sometimes even when it seems like they're not paying attention while they're wandering around, they actually are listening. So while it might not feel like much, you're still working towards getting them to sit and listen for longer periods of time!
Event Spotlights
National Chess Day Celebration
Saturday, October 10, 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM at the Lower Mills Branch
 
Kids and families are invited to the fourth annual celebration of National Chess Day! Festivities will include open play for chess matches, chess trivia, crafts, light refreshments, and more! No registration required.
 
Graphic Novel Book Club
Thursday, October 22, 4:30 PM - 5:30 PM at the Faneuil Branch
 
A monthly book group for middle graders to meet, share what we read, and eat delicious snacks! Read your choice of the two selected books this month: The Night Librarian by Christopher Lincoln or The Periodic Table of Elements by Jon Chad. Best for ages 8-12, no registration required, nor is reading the books beforehand. 
 
Baby Masquerade
Friday, October 30, 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM at the Central Library in Copley Square
 
Show off your little one's costume or fancy outfit at our Baby Masquerade! Dance to family music, read together in a cozy book nook, and enjoy other autumnal activities! This program will take place in the Exhibition Hall in the McKim Building. Registration is not required, but space may be limited. This program is made possible through the collaboration between the Children's Library, Special Events, and The Catered Affair. For ages 0-5 and their caregiver. 
 
New and Upcoming Titles
   The Cow in the Dark at Night by Jess Hannigan
Spendin' Time by Gary R. Gray Jr
    Fall Day, All Day by Kari Percival
The Cow in the Dark at Night
Jess Hannigan
 
"It is nighttime and the cow is loose. In this vibrant and silly picture book, curiosity leads to some strange encounters indeed..."
 
Spendin' Time
Gary R. Gary, Jr.
 
"Upbeat lyricism and cheerful illustration bring to life this kid-friendly meditation on appreciating every moment—big or small—spent with the people you love."
Fall Day, All Day
Kari Percival
 
"This story captures the magic of fall, inspiring children to see the ways in which our seasonal routines reflect those of animals and plants in the wild. An encouraging appreciation for nature, play, and the simple beauty of a fall day."
      What Would You Rather Be? a Black Bear or a Black Mamba? by Jerry Pallotta
    The Unlikely Aventuras of Ramón and El Cucuy (the Unlikely Aventuras of Ramón and El Cucuy Book #1): An Illustrated Chapter Book by Donna Barba Higuera
     The Forgotten War: A World War II Battle on American Soil by Candace Fleming
What Would You Rather Be? A Black Bear or a Black Mamba?
Jerry Pallotta
 
"Play a fierce game of Would You Rather in this engaging Level 1 Easy Reader, from the bestselling author of 'Who Would Win?'"
 
The Unlikely Adventuras of Ramón and El Cucuy
Donna Barba Higuera
 
"A young cucuy, assigned to scare a boy named Ramón, struggles to frighten him when Ramón is too preoccupied with worrying about starting a new school, leading to an unexpected friendship between them."
 
The Forgotten War
Candace Fleming
 
"A thrilling exploration of a forgotten corner of World War II history: the invasion and occupation of Alaska's Attu Island by Imperial Japanese Armed Forces and the ensuing battle to reclaim it."
     Five Days at the Hotel Adams by Hailey Alcaraz
      Maggie and the Story Shadows by Annabelle Oh
     Don't Be Scared: A Graphic Novel by Saadia Faruqi
Five Days at the Hotel Adams
Hailey Alcaraz
 
"Based on the real Hotel Adams fire of 1910, two Latina girls turn their knack for being overlooked and underestimated into their greatest strength as they unravel a complex web of suspects, clues, and motives."
Maggie and the Story Shadows
Annabelle Oh
 
"Thirteen-year-old Maggie and her friends investigate her mother's disappearance and discover a world where stories are real."
  
Don't Be Scared
Saadia Faruqi
 
"Riz is determined to prove to his dad that movies matter and ghosts are real, but he and his friends might be in over their heads when they investigate the local creepy mansion."
Looking for More Recommendations?
Vida Latina 2026: Children's and Teen Books
Vida Latina is an annual list of recently published books, printed as part of the Boston Public Library's yearly celebration of National Hispanic Heritage Month. 

For More Suggestions...
A Harvest of Holidays: Picture Books for Autumn Celebrations
Queer History for Kids, Middle Grade, and Middle School Readers
 
 
 
   

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