Reviews+

Two picture books by powerhouse creators shed light on the marginalized communities who were integral to the foundation and growth of the United States.

This month's roundup includes audiobook adaptations of Katherine Rundell's The Poisoned King and Sophie Blackall's Hello Lighthouse.

As we closed out 2025, many books rose to the top, including lots of manga and new offerings from middle grade favorites Gordon Korman and Sara Pennypacker.

A creepy YA focusing on Edgar Allan Poe's descendant, a nonfiction title honoring Black basketball players, and board book and audiobook offerings appear on the first starred list of 2026.

Since our July 2025 Stars So Far ­issue, SLJ has starred over 300 additional titles, reviewed in print and online from June through ­December. From board books and ­holiday titles to professional reading and manga, this list highlights must-have ­selections for every collection need.

From a first-words title on the hardware store to Mo Willems’s counting book featuring The Pigeon, these sturdy volumes will engage little ones.

This roundup includes YA, poetry, nonfiction, and picture books about first love, monkeys, and influential Latine people who made an impact on history.

Fill holiday collections with fun new works for Halloween, Christmas, and Rosh Hashanah.