what to read Archives

July Book Corner: 5 Bedtime Books to Help Kids Wind Down This Summer

Published July 1, 2025

By Ash Wang

From whimsical picture books to calming stories rooted in tradition, these bedtime reads are perfect for relaxing young minds before lights out.

Long summer days can throw off sleep schedules, especially for kids. According to The New York Times, extended daylight can disrupt melatonin production and circadian rhythms, making bedtime a struggle. That’s why this month’s Book Corner highlights soothing stories perfect for helping little ones unwind, whether read aloud or independently.

MS. RACHEL AND BEAN AND THE BEDTIME ROUTINE: Encouraging a Calm and Comforting Good Night

by Ms. Rachel and Mr. Aron and illustrated by Monique Dong

“MS. RACHEL AND BEAN AND THE BEDTIME ROUTINE: Encouraging a Calm and Comforting Good Night” is a picture book from the famous Ms. Rachel that teaches young readers about bedtime routines.

Recommended for ages 3-8

Embarrassed Ferret

by Lisa Frenkel Riddiough and illustrated by Andrea Tsurumi

In rhymes and fun illustrations, “Embarrassed Ferret” follows Ferret as she learns that nobody’s perfect.

Recommended for ages 3-7

Jurassic Girl

by Michele C. Hollow

“Jurassic Girl” is a historical fiction book perfect for STEM enthusiasts that follows the 12-year-old fossil hunter Mary Anning.

Recommended for ages 8-12.

Bakery Babies

by Meredith Newman and illustrated by Ka Huen Kwong

A whimsical tale of babies sneaking out of their cribs and to the local bakery, “Bakery Babies” is a sweet picture book to read to young readers.

Recommended for ages 3-8.

For A Girl Becoming

by Joy Harjo and illustrated by Adriana Garcia

By exploring connections to nature and one’s ancestors, “For A Girl Becoming” is a picture book rooted in Native American traditions.

Recommended for ages 4-8.

For more book suggestions, check out our June Book Corner.

January Book Corner: New Year, New Reads

Published December 18, 2024

By Camille Daniels

The bulk of the holidays have come and gone, and now we’re off to the next chapter with a new year. 2025 gives us a chance to start fresh, whether we’re looking to try something different, shed old habits or start new ones– including reading. Invite the children in your life to start the year off with these new reads. Happy New Year and happy reading!

Nasty Names Are Hurtful: An Australian White Ibis in the City

Written and illustrated by Rick LeCouteur

The presence of human beings force Penny, an Australian White Ibis bird, to leave home. Once she’s moved to her new home, she encounters another problem– kids in school. They find new ways to shame Penny for being the new kid in school like calling her names, including “Bin Chick” and “Picnic Pirate,” all because she has unique scavenging habits that stand out in urban settings. With a chance to examine her life Penny realizes she’s only living in the city because their original home in the wetlands no longer exists. “Nasty Names Are Hurtful” shares lessons on acceptance, compassion and resilience. Recommended for ages 3-6.

Shoot for the Stars

By Star Harvey, former L.A. Parent intern, and illustrated by Aabshar Khan

We think about making a goal or wish on birthdays, shooting stars, lucky numbers and other rituals. But why not start the year with this kind of intention? “Shoot for the Stars,” written by a former L.A. Parent intern, follows a young girl named Star who wants to become a meteorologist someday. On her journey to becoming a meteorologist, she experiences doubts from those she meets along her way. Star’s grandmother’s support and encouragement help keep her on the path of determination. Star grows determined to stay true to her goal and learns how to navigate the positives and negatives that come with it.

The Famously Funny Parrott: More Bird-Brained Than Ever!

By Eric Daniel Weiner and illustrated by Brian Biggs

In “The Famously Funny Parrott” finds stories that will make the kids laugh out loud at all the shenanigans of Freedie Parrott and his butler and friend Peccary who are part of the Rubberwick world. Their numerous adventures include translating Morse code, a new kind of breakfast treat and finding themselves in front of the town judge. Recommended for ages 7 – 10.

Who Is Driving Your Bus?

By Shannon Sonnenberg and illustrated by Birdie Rook

As the new bus attendant Niko finds himself thinking about his emotions as if they are passengers on the bus who get on and off it all day. In his new role, Niko makes a mistake by not paying attention to who he lets drive the bus. “Who Is Driving Your Bus” invites parents, teachers and children to learn about social emotional skills and how to deal with them in healthy ways. Recommended for ages 5-9.

Our Cosmos: The Complete Guide to Space for Kids

By Professor Raman Prinja and illustrated by Suzie Mason

“Our Cosmos” is for children who are curious about the stars and beyond. Take a journey through numerous black holes, explore asteroids and nearby galaxies and learn about the role that stardust plays in all of it. A guide for the kids who can’t help but look up and marvel at the sky, “Our Cosmos” has a hint of wonder that will fill their hearts and minds. Recommended for ages 8-12.

For more book recommendations check out our December Book Corner.

March Book Corner: Easing Worries and Stress

Published March 1, 2024

By Emily Ip

Spring into the month of March by keeping your little one’s anxieties at bay with this selection of books.

Oh Olive: Oh No! A Thunderstorm

By Kelley G. Lamm

Children’s fear of stormy weather conditions is put at ease in Lamm’s latest work, “Oh Olive: Oh No! A Thunderstorm.” Young readers learn to embrace their fears and leap towards their dreams with courage alongside Olive as he grows from pup to canine. Isabella Brouster’s vibrant illustrations capture the emotions that are intrinsic to humans and animals alike. Ages 4-8.

The Drama Llama

By Rachel Morrisroe

Children begin to learn the healing power of talking through their anxieties in Morrisroe’s book “The Drama Llama,” where the main character is faced with a giant pink llama each time he feels anxious. To shrink the llama, Alex must learn to self-soothe and talk through his worries. This lighthearted book will have your little one giggling one moment and using it as a resource in the next. Ages 4-8.

Alycat and the Sunday Scaries

By Alysson Forti Bourque

Alycat has tackled problem solving, creative ruts and friendships—so what’s next? “Alycat and the Sunday Scaries” is Bourque’s latest installment in the adorable series, and Alycat is dreading the start of a new school week. Alycat certainly isn’t the only one thinking about all the what-ifs on a Sunday night. Children will relate to and rejoice in Alycat’s friend-filled journey towards easing school jitters. Ages 6-8. Available March 18.

The Perfect One

By Sue Lancaster

Children who strive for perfection, or compare themselves to their siblings and peers, will easily relate to “The Perfect One,” which tells the story of Cami and Isa. Cami wants to be perfect in everything she does and Isa is confident that everything she does is perfect. On the first day of basketball camp, the two sisters learn to support each other, embrace their differences, and let go of the idea of perfectionism. Ages 4-6.

For more books to add to your shelf, check out our February roundup.

February Book Corner: Enthralling Books for Tweens

Published February 16, 2024

By Emily Ip

From graphic novels to historic nonfiction, our monthly book roundup returns with a collection of books that will be sure to get your tween excited about reading again.

The Solvers Book 1: The Divmulti Ray Dilemma

By Jon Chad

Writer and artist Jon Chad excites even the most reluctant math students and readers with his action-packed graphic novels centering around kid superheroes Animal Jr., Cloudtamer and Zipper. In “The Solvers: The Divmulti Ray Dilemma,” the Solvers learn to master their multiplication and division skills whilst teaming up with unexpected sidekicks to defeat the supervillain Null Void. Chad illustrates step-by-step instructions for math problems, guiding readers and building a strong foundation they can carry into math class. Ages 8-12. Available Feb. 20.

The Solvers Book 2: The Shrinking Setback

By Jon Chad

The Solvers are back at it again—only this time, they’re half their usual height. After an unfortunate encounter with a shrinking potion, the team must learn about fractions and decimals in “The Solvers: The Shrinking Setback.” Animal Jr., Cloudtamer, and Zipper work through the addition, subtraction, multiplication and division of fractions and decimals in an effort to return to their usual selves and save the day. Ages 8-12. Available Feb. 20.

Exclusion and the Chinese American Story

By Sarah-SoonLing Blackburn

Most historic nonfiction books tell the story of Chinese American history through a single aspect: their work on the railroads during the 1800s. But what about the entrepreneurs, movie stars and animators? In “Exclusion and the Chinese American Story,” Blackburn is resurrecting these forgotten stories. The gold rush may have brought Chinese people to the U.S., and railroad work may have helped them stay afloat, but hope, resilience and community are the true anchors of their story. Ages 10 and up. Available March 26.

Averil Offline

By Amy Noelle Parks

Any kids who are itching for independence will relate to Averil Frye, a 12-year-old coder, whose parents keep her on a tight rope with the “Ruby Slippers” surveillance app. Setting out to tweak the app in their favor, Averil and new kid Max McClaren learn about honesty, trust, and teamwork along the way. “Averil Offline” is recommended for ages 10 and up. Available Feb. 13.

Princess Protection Program

By Alex London

Fans of the “School for Good and Evil” and the “Chronicles of Never After” series will be hooked on “The Princess Protection Program,” Alex London’s take on classic fairy tales. Rosamund isn’t like the other princesses: she flees from her prince and finds herself at the Home Educational Academy. Trying to find her footing in the real world, Rosamund begins to speculate the true nature of the academy and the course of her own story. Readers are in for an adventure filled with friendship and magic. Ages 8-12. Available Feb. 13.

February Book Corner: Self-Love, Kindness and Family

Published February 8, 2023

By Nina Harada

Hey Otter! Hey Beaver!

Written and illustrated by Brian Pinkney

Sometimes friends love the same thing for different reasons, and that difference can reveal lessons in cooperation and competition. That’s true for the two friends in “Hey Otter! Hey Beaver!” Otter just wants to play, while Beaver is determined to make his dam. In the end they learn how to make both work but working together. Ages 4-8. Available Feb. 21.

Luna Finds Love Everywhere

By Dr. Shainna Ali

Mental health expert Dr. Shainna Ali shares developmentally appropriate self-love lessons for kids in “Luna Finds Love Everywhere.” The colorful picture book follows cheerful Luna as she navigates simple tasks, like having breakfast, getting dressed or playing with friends. Throughout the story, the book poses questions, like “How do you feel when things don’t go your way?” or “What are some of your favorite things to do?” to get young readers thinking about self-expression and self-esteem. Ages 3-5.

Rabbit, Duck, and Big Bear

By Nadine Brun-Cosme and Oliver Tallec

“Rabbit, Duck, and Big Bear” travels through the seasons with beautiful illustrations of three best friends having fun together in the forest. The rabbit, duck and bear think they do everything together until they realize they’ve all found solace under a beautiful fir tree on their own. They learn that time with friends and time alone are equally nice. Ages 4-8. Available Feb. 14.

Sunny and Oswaldo

By Nicole Melleby, and illustrated by Alexandra Colombo

“Sunny and Oswaldo” is a touching picture book that introduces themes of empathy and mental health in an age-appropriate way. Young Sunny is not a cat person, so when her dad excitedly brought home a scruffy, unfriendly cat named Oswaldo, she wasn’t happy. But when Oswaldo goes missing one night, Sunny realizes how much Oswaldo means to her dad. Ages 4-8.

Lasagna Means I Love You

By Kate O’Shaughnessy

Author Kate O’Shaughnessy is a trained chef and her love and expertise of food and recipes shines through the pages of “Lasagna Means I Love You,” the bittersweet story of eleven-year-old Mo who suddenly finds herself in search of family when the death of her beloved grandmother puts in her into foster care. Through letters to her grandmother and recipes she’s collected from other families, Mo processes the big changes in her life and eventually finds a family she can call her own. Ages 8-12.

Family Meeting Planner

By Alex Mont-Ros

Alex Mont-Ros, dad to eight children knows a thing or two about the challenges of raising a family. Over the last two decades as a dad, he held family meetings to encourage communication and address the day-to-day needs of everyone in his family. He learned the importance of planning, accountability, organization and focus to successfully run these meetings, which led to the creation of “The Family Meeting Planner,” a workbook designed to help families get on the same page and improve their communication and connection.

For more book suggestions, check out our January Book Corner.

January Book Corner: Books that Encourage Empathy & Joy

Published January 26, 2023

By Nina Harada

Oona in the Arctic

By Kelly DiPucchio, illustrated by Raissa Figueroa

New York Times bestselling author Kelly DiPucchio and illustrator Raissa Figueroa continue the adventures of Oona the mermaid in the third installment of their Oona series, “Oona in the Arctic.” When Oona helps a lost baby beluga whale find its way home, they meet kind strangers and make new friends. Their journey through the arctic sea shows how a little kindness goes a long way. Ages 4-8.

A Kids Book About Anxiety

by Ross Szabo

Between the pandemic, holidays and typical growing pains, there is a lot to feel anxious about. But if we aren’t used to talking about mental health, experiencing anxiety can be scary or confusing. Ross Szabo, Wellness Director at Geffen Academy at UCLA, tackles the important conversation around mental health in “A Kids Book About Anxiety,” which is meant to be read together, adult and child. Through simple text and visuals mimicking a heartbeat, “A Kids Book About Anxiety” shows what anxiety can feel like and how we can live with it.

Very Good Hats

By Emma Straub, illustrated by Blanca Gómez

Bestselling author and bookstore owner Emma Straub released her first children’s book. “Very Good Hats” is a colorful and joyful look into the different ways we can see ordinary objects. Acorns make perfect hats for fingers and bubbles make great temporary hats. Not only does it inspire us to look at the world in a new light, the charming illustrations remind us of the limitless imagination children bring to this world. Ages 2-5.

This Little Kitty

By Karen Obuhanych

In “This Little Kitty” debut author-illustrator Karen Obuhanych uses rhyming text and playful illustrations of cats doing very cat-like things, like grooming, sitting in a box for hours and clawing the chair. The humorous picture book will make both kids and adults giggle as they read along. Ages 3-7.

Love Without Wings: an Adoption Fairytale

By Adam Swain Ferguson, illustrated by Veronica Stanley-Hooper

L.A.-based writer, producer and director Adam Swain Ferguson adapts his own true story of becoming a father in this modern fairytale. “Love Without Wings” tells the story of two kings who dream of becoming fathers. One day the two kings and a beautiful fairy wished upon the very same star. The fairy wished she could find the perfect family for the baby boy growing in her belly. This touching story weaves together the challenges of adoption with the magic of dreams coming true.

Shine Bright

by Kheris Rogers, illustrated by Michal Renee Roe

16-year old multi hyphenate Kheris Rogers adds children’s book author to her list of accomplishments with “Shine Bright.” In her debut picture book, Kheris pulls from her own experience of getting bullied for her dark complexion. The protagonist Imani loves meeting new people until one day a group of kids make fun of her for looking different. Imani turns to her sister who reminds her of all the reasons she shines bright. This uplifting book is filled with affirmations that remind us all the ways we shine bright, too.

For more book suggestions, check out our December Book Corner.

LOL – The Power of Laughter and How Reading Lets the Joy of Laughter Ring Loud

Published September 30, 2022

By Jeanne Huybrechts, Chief Academic Officer, Stratford School

“A smile starts on the lips, a grin spreads to the eyes, a chuckle comes from the belly; and a good laugh bursts forth from the soul, overflows, and bubbles all around.” — Carolyn Birmingham, author

Is there any sound more wonderful that a child’s laugh? Often when we think about children, we have a vision of fun, play and laughter.

We all need a laugh right now, so we have compiled our favorite LOL list of books. There are read-aloud books for preschoolers and a variety of stories for readers at all levels – beginning readers to preteens. Some are goofy-silly, others witty and clever, some include gorgeous illustrations, a couple offer relatable life-lessons learned through misadventures or embarrassing moments — and all will make the reader laugh out loud.

Preschool
This Moose Belongs To Me, written and illustrated by Oliver Jeffers
How can a book that is so beautiful also be so funny? This book has so many quirky moments you will have to read it twice. We start out with Wilfred, a very organized young boy complete with suspenders and a bow tie, and his pet moose Marcel, who is not always good at following the many constraining rules of being a pet. Through the book, they take a journey to stunningly painted mountain landscapes in which they meet other “owners” of the moose. Wilfred needs to learn not to stifle his new pet’s outgoing personality in order to maintain his part ownership. A great lesson in boundaries, expectations and the value of being open-minded and willingness to adapt in order to solve a problem.

Kindergarten
Mina, written and illustrated by Matthew Forsythe
This Academy Award nominated author/illustrator brings us a silly new book with museum-quality artwork. Mina is a bookworm mouse who lives in a beautiful forest with her eccentric father. Dad goes daily into the world, bringing back surprises for Mina, such as rare art (used postage stamps) and a megaphone (a rusty tin can). She’s fine with all of this until he brings a large “squirrel” that looks suspiciously like a cat to live in their tiny home. One visitor then leads to several felines moving in. How Mina and her dad navigate their new guests is hilarious, and becomes even funnier as the cats chase the family up a tree. Mina confronts the three cats and says, “Stop! We shared our home with you! Our food! Our toothpaste! And this is how you repay us? By trying to eat us?” Should Mina have trusted her dad? Will they talk their way out of this mess? Do large praying mantises read the same books as mice? So many questions, such wonderful drawings with which to ponder them.

Grades 1 and 2
The Leaf Thief, written by Alice Hemming and illustrated by Nicola Slater
A fast-paced, hilarious and possibly even sneaky way of teaching kids about the changes of the season. Adorably hyper Squirrel is upset because his leaves are going missing. Searching all over the forest, accusing his fellow animals of thievery, Squirrel is followed by his best friend Bird. Bird keeps trying to explain why the leaves aren’t staying around. Cute drawings and a very frustrated Squirrel keep the laughs coming. Everything is finally making sense, and then, “Bird! Someone has stolen the grass!!!” Sigh, it is called snow. A valuable and concise two-page explanation at the end of the book will help young readers understand seasons. This book is also good for talking to young ones about how to accept change and how transitions can be scary and frustrating.

Grades 3-5
The Bad Guys (series), written and illustrated by Aaron Blabey
This relatively new format called a hybrid graphic novel, which combines text with lots of drawings, is fabulous for reluctant readers. The “Bad Guys” are all pretty scary: The Big Bad Wolf, Mr. Snake, Mr. Piranha and Mr. Shark. The wolf gathers them together for the first meeting of “The Good Guys Club” in an attempt to change their reputations by doing good deeds. As the motley crew break a bunch of dogs (wearing prison uniforms) out of the animal shelter, all the dogs run away, terrified of their “scary” rescuers. I challenge anyone to read this series and keep a straight face.

Middle School
Addison Cooke and the Tomb of Khan, (series), written by Jonathan W. Stokes
This book is one part Indiana Jones, one part Treasure Island and two parts laugh out loud silly. A goofy teenager and his motley crew travel around the world to seek the secret tomb of Genghis Khan, causing and then solving problems and teaching the readers history at the same time. Addison is a funny kid, seemingly able to talk his way out of any situation. His sister Molly trusts him and is willing to use her skills learned from eight weeks of martial arts training. Raj is a daredevil and constantly jumps in when others are in danger. Eddie manages to whine and find the worst in any situation. While Addison and his cohorts always get involved in huge messes, they escape using their vast knowledge of history and archeology, demonstrating that it is OK for kids to be both goofy and studious all at once.

Most of us have heard the phrase, “Laughter is good medicine!” When we laugh, physical changes take place that affect our internal organs. As we draw in oxygen-rich air our lungs, heart and muscles are stimulated. Laughter has been shown to boost our immune system and improve our cognition/understanding of a situation. Humor and laughter are important social skills and can assist children as a stress reliever when challenges present themselves. Laughter is a happy sound; easily understood in every language. It is one early childhood developmental skill that you can easily reinforce and enjoy while you are laughing out loud together!

June Book Corner: Inspirational Books for Children

Published June 14, 2022

By Hannah-Karen Cogan

Growing up can be difficult, as lots of children face challenges such as bullying, sadness and even just the pressures of being the new kid. These books are filled with many different tips, tricks and helpful ways to beat these challenges and overcome obstacles.

Today I’m Strong

By Nadiya Hussain

A classic in the making from the winner of “The Great British Baking Show” and the star of “Nadiya Bakes,” this book is about a young girl finding her strength in spite of a schoolyard bully. The playground is a hard place to navigate; some of the time it can feel amazing, while other times it can feel sad and lonely. In “Today I’m Strong,” the little girl learns to hold her head high, always be kind and believe in herself, with a reminder from her magic tiger. On sale June 14. Recommended for ages 3-5.

That’s Not My Name!

By Anoosha Syed

When Mirah starts a new school she is so excited to make new friends. When one of her classmates mispronounces her name, she wonders if she should change it. Mirah and mama work together with the use of images and illustrations in, “That’s Not My Name!” to find love for your name, find your voice and learn how to stand up for yourself. Recommended for ages 3-5.

Violet and the Crumbs

By Abigail Rayner

The book is about celiac disease, an autoimmune condition triggered by eating foods with gluten, and it follows a little girl’s journey as she navigates her recent diagnosis. It’s based on Abigail Rayner’s experience with her own daughter, which gives it a unique personal perspective. “Violet and the Crumbs” is now available for ages 4-8.

The Surprise

By Zadie Smith and Nick Laird

A picture book that can be admired by adults and children, “The Surprise” is an endearing story about Maud, a guinea pig who wears a judo suit that not everyone understands. Maud gets thrown into a new situation and has to use bravery to find her place and embrace her individuality. Available June 28. Recommended for ages 3-7.

Hattie Harmony: Worry Detective

By Elizabeth Olsen and Robbie Arnett

The first day of school can be difficult and cause a lot of jitters. No need for fear because “Hattie Harmony: Worry Detective” is always there to help her friends when they need her. Hattie always finds the perfect way to help calm down her friends. This fun filled book is about facing one’s fears and the importance of self-care. Recommended for ages 4-8.

The Bench

By Meghan, The Duchess of Sussex

Meghan, The Duchess of Sussex’s debut children’s book is about the special bond between father and son. “The Bench” is inspired by her own husband and son and it shows us how love can take shape in a modern family.

AMERICAN GIRL: Samantha Helps A Friend

By Rebecca Mallary, read by Saskia Maarleveld

The first release from American Girl’s partnership with Listening Library, “Samantha Helps a Friend” tells the stories of friendship, courage and compassion. American Girl’s award-winning books have been beloved for more than 35 years and they help girls navigate the changes and challenges of growing up. This audiobook is available on June 7. Recommended for ages 5-8.

Juneteenth: Our Day of Freedom

By Sharon Dennis Wyeth

Want to learn more about “Juneteenth”? This book tells the story and significance of what Juneteenth is and what it means. This book is about the history of Juneteenth and is certain to entertain and educate readers of all ages.

Sunday Pancakes

By Maya Tatsukawa

This warm, feel-good tale of friends working together to make delicious pancakes is the ultimate comfort food from Geisel Honor creator Maya Tatsukawa. “Sunday Pancakes” shows us that friends don’t have to be perfect to be wonderful. This fun book also shows us the power of teamwork and sharing, and even includes a yummy pancake recipe. Available June 28. Recommended for ages 4-8.

Peri and Her Fungi

By Michael Girgenti

Michael Girgenti’s book series, “Strawberry Pencil Magic,” promotes diversity and features two unique books. The first book in the series is called “Peri and Her Plant,” which is about making the world a greener place with the help of friends. The second book coming out in honor of Juneteenth is called “Peri and Her Fungi.” This book is about Peri finding new and natural remedies to cure his grandma’s sickness.

Kyle the Coyote

By Mark Terry

“Kyle the Coyote” is about a Coyote pup who gets lost in the desert. The moral centers around what happens when children get lost or separated from their parents. One of the characters called “Oliver the Owl” hoots out facts for parents or teachers to read to kids to give them additional context. Recommended for ages 3-8.

For more book suggestions, check out our June Book Corner for adults or our May Book Corner.