Top 10
The Fault in Our Stars
John Green (Dutton Juvenile)
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“A cancer support group might seem like an unlikely place to meet your true love, but for Hazel Grace and Augustus Waters the stars align and these two sweetly cynical souls find each other at an interesting moment in their lives. In a story brimming with mystery, humor, and lots of love, Hazel and Augustus show readers that life is made up of a million moments worth noticing -- much like a night sky filled with stars.”
— Julie Wilson, The Bookworm, Omaha, NE
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“This engaging middle grade book imagines the lives of Thomas Jefferson's children by his slave Sally Hemings. Although they occupied a position of privilege in the slave hierarchy at Monticello, Bradley makes it clear that they were still subject to sub-human treatment. As the children grew up, they confronted their mother with difficult questions, and she devised a plan for them to live in freedom.”
— Deborah Johnson, Barstons Child's Play, Washington, DC
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“Born into an elite family in one of the Republic's wealthiest districts, 15-year-old June is a military prodigy committed to her country. Her complete antithesis is 15-year-old Day, the country's most wanted criminal and the prime suspect in the murder of June's brother. June sets out to capture Day, but, in a shocking turn of events, the teens discover a sinister conspiracy that pits both of them against the government. Filled with action and suspense!”
— Ellen Klein, Hooray for Books!, Alexandria, VA
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“Take 50 incredible artists, give them each a classic nursery rhyme, and let them run! Lucy Knisley turns the 'Old Lady Who Lived in a Shoe' into a rock-and-roll baby sitter whose charges form the band 'The Whips.' Raina Telgemeier sets 'Georgie Porgie' at a birthday party that ends with a cupcake fight. Dave Roman depicts a surreal, sci-fi 'One, Two, Buckle My Shoe' that is completely different from Patrick McDonnell's sweet 'Donkey.' A fabulous introduction to the comics format for young and old alike.”
— Marika McCoola, Odyssey Bookshop, South Hadley, MA
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“The story of Cinderella turned on its head and given a futuristic twist, Cinder is exciting, entertaining, and engaging. A plague is sweeping across Earth and there is no cure, the people of the Moon want to conquer Earth, and the annual Ball is coming in New Beijing. Suddenly, Cinder finds herself embroiled in all three events and she may hold the key to the future survival of Earth. This is the first volume of a planned quartet. I can't wait for the next book!”
— Ellen Richmond, Children's Book Cellar, Waterville, ME
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“The town where Annabelle lives is a very boring place; a dull grey city where nobody wears anything colorful at all. One day Annabelle finds a box full of yarn, so she knits herself a sweater. But she finds that she has extra yarn left over. Soon, she is knitting sweaters for everyone and everything (even a pickup truck!) and her town is becoming brighter by the stitch. Somehow, she always has extra yarn!”
— Maryam Yachnes, Hooray for Books!, Alexandria, VA
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“Ivan, a gorilla, has spent most of his life with humans and the other animals at the Exit 8 Big Top Mall and Video Arcade. His memory of life before humans and cages is hazy, until a terrified young elephant joins him and he starts to remember the importance of family and belonging. A wonderful read, full of heart.”
— Lisa Fabiano, Wellesley Books, Wellesley, MA
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“Louisiana teen Rory Deveaux arrives in London to attend Wexford Academy just as a series of Jack the Ripper copycat murders grips the city. Rory may hold the key to finding the murderer. A ghost story with a twist, this is sophisticated and sassy, with more than enough suspense to keep you madly turning pages. I can't wait for the next book!”
— Joanne R. Fritz, Chester County Book & Music Company, West Chester, PA
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“Otis, Long's wonderfully plucky tractor, is back, in an adventure tale that is sadly timely. When the farm friends face a tornado heading their way, they must move swiftly to safety. But who will rescue the bully of the farmyard, the bull who has frightened them all but now cries in fear? Otis saves the day, and everyone learns that courage is different from strength, and that friends are more valuable than anything.”
— Leslie Reiner, Inkwood Books, Tampa, FL
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“I loved this story about unlikely friends, each lonely and trapped by labels - trailer trash, brainy dork, and bluefish. I cared deeply about these characters, who are struggling not to be defined by their past expectations, and I cheered for their unconventional teacher who provoked them into seeing their future possibilities. A great book for fans of Katherine Hannigan and Gary Schmidt.”
— Ellen Davis, Dragonwings Bookstore, Waupaca, WI
Ages 4-8
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“The inquisitive young scientist in this picture book is part Eloise, part Ms. Frizzle. She tests each of her hypotheses -- such as that ketchup and snow are the only food groups a kid needs -- with pure scientific standards. Fantastic illustrations demonstrate the scientific method and show the reader what goes on behind the scenes, for example, when you try to send a bottle to the ocean by flushing it down the toilet. This book had me giggling at every page.”
— Neysa Jensen, The Rediscovered Bookshop, Boise, ID
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“Hopkinson and Hendrix weave an intriguing and informative narrative to show how Charles Dickens transformed from a young lad on the streets of London to one of the most well-known literary figures of all time. Learn how Dickens used his imagination and creativity to escape his dreary, misfortunate circumstances in this riveting tale.”
— Rebecca Moore, Hooray for Books!, Alexandria, VA
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“Our favorite cast of cutlery - including Spoon, Spork, and Knife - is back, but Chopsticks are the stars of this tale. Children will love the familiar characters, the crisp, bright illustrations, and the funny adventures Chopsticks get into together -- and apart. This is a wonderful way to show why there are some things that are best done with a friend, and other things on our own.”
— Jessilynn Norcross, McLean & Eakin Booksellers, Petoskey, MI
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“I love this book! The spectacular Inga Moore illustrations accompany a story that will appeal to kids and grownups alike. Two pigs, a moose, and a bear decide they want a house where they can live together. They plan it and hire a group of hard-hat-wearing beavers as their contractors. We watch the house go up, and - in the best scene of all -- the beavers being paid in peanut-butter sandwiches. Delightful!”
— Deborah Johnson, Barstons Child's Play, Washington, DC
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“Just why did that lamb follow Mary to school? Here is the full story, with glorious paintings by Will Moses - the great-grandson of folk art icon Grandma Moses -- that depict the vibrant color and activity of the New England setting where the song originated. Notes and the musical score are included.”
— Carol Moyer, Quail Ridge Books, Raleigh, NC
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“Buzzeo's text and the illustrations by Caldecott Medal-winner Small are perfectly matched in this wonderful book. A pet penguin named Magellan makes excellent sense to Elliot, but what about his father? This 'cool' book delivers fun and so much more!”
— Jeanne Snyder, Books & Books, Coral Gables, FL
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“Otto is a book bear, but he also has a secret. He comes to life when no one is looking! When Otto is out on an adventure, his book is accidentally taken away and he has to find a new home. After much searching, Otto comes to a beautiful library where he makes great friends, has fantastic adventures, and has lots of new readers! This is a lovely story for any book lover, and Cleminson's soft illustrations help to make this a wonderful book to share.”
— Amanda Snow, Hooray for Books!, Alexandria, VA
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“This is a simple and very appealing picture book about the animals that live through the winter safe and warm under the snow. The illustrations by Neal, in subtle winter blues and greens, highlight the wonder of the season.”
— Leon Archibald, Bank Square Books, Mystic, CT
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“This amazing new alphabet book showcases fresh and vibrant illustrations. A bonus is the jacket can be reversed and used as a poster. The perfect book for those learning their letters.”
— Lisa Fabiano, Wellesley Books, Wellesley, MA
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“This is my new favorite snow book! The minimal text highlighted with fun sound effects is complemented by beautiful art. A bear borrows a sled and all of his forest friends join in the fun. In this sweet and wonderful picture book, Judge successfully captures all of the joy of a great sled ride.”
— Lorna Ruby, Wellesley Books, Wellesley, MA
Ages 9-12
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“Phelan's Around the World, though fiction, is grounded in historical fact and quotes from primary sources, proving an exciting base for history lessons or a path to the exploration of nonfiction. Three famous individuals are presented, each of whom circumnavigated in the world in his or her own way: Thomas Steves by bicycle, Nellie Bly by ship and rail, and Joshua Slocum by sail boat. The pacing and speed of each journey is captured by the graphic novel layout, which combines text, image, maps, and other materials, each adding a layer to the reader's understanding. Sprightly line drawings and colorful washes capture the emotion and drive of each character, bringing a rush of thrilling speed to each adventure.”
— Marika McCoola, Odyssey Bookshop, South Hadley, MA
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“Ursu pulls Hazel and Jack into the world of The Snow Queen in a way that makes complete emotional sense. There's something here that will resonate with anyone who has ever felt that he or she didn't belong. For voracious readers, there's extra payoff in spotting nods to everything from Alice in Wonderland to The Phantom Tollbooth to Harry Potter.”
— Shoshana Flax, Brookline Booksmith, Brookline, MA
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“This tween story of first love will melt the hardest heart. Louise's quiet, wounded sadness touches both Henderson and the reader, who can't help but root for the young couple. The Boy on Cinnamon Street will appeal to Justin Bieber fans but will also be a great read for any mother-daughter book club.”
— Jill Hendrix, Fiction Addiction, Greenville, SC
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“Strange things begin to happen when 13-year-old Maya and her family move from California to Paris for a year. She meets odd relatives, including the strange, almost invisible Cousin Louise, and an older cousin who takes care of an ornate cabinet seemingly filled with bits of earth. Danger seems near as an odd 'Uncle' with purple eyes takes a special interest in Maya's exuberant five-year-old brother, James. Readers will enter this eerie atmosphere and find themselves holding their breath as Maya tries to rescue James and solve the mysterious meaning of the Cabinet of Earths.”
— Barbara Katz, Next Chapter Bookshop, Mequon, WI
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“This fantastic time-travel tale with a scary twist is great for reading with a flashlight under your bedcovers! While exploring the mysterious basement of a New York City hotel, 12-year-old Jezebel Lemon encounters the 'ghost' of Tommy Learner, a time-traveler from the 19th century. Together, they must thwart the evil Dead Gentleman, who wants to kill every living thing on Earth. Their desperate mission takes them to places you can only begin to imagine!”
— Ellen Klein, Hooray for Books!, Alexandria, VA
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“Confined to her nursing home bed, 82-year-old Lizzie tells an outrageous but true story to Karl and his mother. While awaiting the return of Papi from World War II, 16-year-old Lizzie, her young brother, Karli, and her mother make their garden home to a four-year-old orphaned elephant from the zoo. Dresden, Germany, is sure to be bombed, and the zoo will be forced to kill the larger animals that may pose a threat to the city. Marlene, the adored elephant, breaks loose, beginning a chase that leads them away from Dresden and saves them from warfare. Lizzie's story is laced with details that bring history to life.”
— Jane Morck, Third Place Books, Lake Forest Park, WA
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“Merciless Marvin the Magnificent decides it's time to lead his mouse gang to something bigger than stale popcorn and candy from the movie theater where they live. Using cunning, wit, and nerves of steel the gang attempts to heist the ultimate treat -- cheese. It is great to see this wonderful classic back in print!”
— Vivian Evans, The King's English, Salt Lake City, UT
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“The award-winning Halls adds to her repertoire of fascinating topics with this latest entry showcasing the legendary Sasquatch. This treasure trove is packed with the most up-to-date information and includes spine-tingling eyewitness accounts and revealing interviews with experts. Readers will be mesmerized but may choose to peruse this enlightening work about the mysterious ape-like creature only during the light of day!”
— Tish Gayle, The Blue Marble, Fort Thomas, KY
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“I am thrilled that Bethesda and the gang from The Secret Life of Mrs. Finkelman are back. Winters' sly humor and hip music references make a fantastic story that much better. This perfectly paced mystery has enough clues and surprises to keep the reader guessing until the book's end. More, Ben Winters, more! I loved this!”
— Christopher Rose, Andover Bookstore, Andover, MA
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“This enjoyable and interesting take on Snow White is set in West Virginia in the 1950s. I really enjoyed the author's spin on the traditional story and her seamless blend of the real with the magical. Plus, the wicked stepmother was terrifyingly creepy! Among all the fairy tale retellings being published these days, this one is definitely a standout!”
— Sasha Decker, Waucoma Bookstore, Hood River, OR
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“Eric Parrish is perplexed when he discovers glowing mushrooms in the woods behind his home, but he's sure there's a scientific explanation. As the mushrooms encroach on the town, Eric deals with issues such as his parents' disintegrating marriage, friendship with a girl, and athletic aspirations. Scaletta, the author of Mudville and Mamba Point, has a keen appreciation of the issues confronting middle readers. His story is absorbing, and the situations and dialogue realistic. A great read!”
— Sally Wizik Wills, Sister Wolf Books, Park Rapids, MN
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“Every Tuesday, the castle presents Celie with a new adventure by adding onto itself. Sometimes it's a new room; other times it's a tower. But no matter what it is, you can bet Celie will be there, adding to one of her maps. It's all fun and games until her parents, King and Queen Glower, are ambushed and are gone without a trace. Now it's up to Celie, her siblings, the Castle, and its love for them to protect the kingdom from outsiders. I loved how each step Celie took in the castle led to a new surprise and an exciting revelation!”
— Clare Nelson, The Velveteen Rabbit Bookshop, Fort Atkinson, WI
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“Winterling is a heartfelt story about a girl named Fer who travels to a magical wintry world full of danger and illusion. The Lady, the ruler of that world, wants Fer to become a huntress, but Fer grew up as a vegetarian with her herbalist grandmother. Through her power to heal, Fer wins over the denizens of the wintry world, overcomes the Lady and her illusions, and allows springtime to break through.”
— Kristen Eaton, Phoenix Books, Essex, VT
Teen Readers
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“Readers will not be disappointed by this follow-up to the #1 Indie Next pick Matched, as Cassia follows her forbidden love Ky to the outer edges of the Society, hoping to prevent what seems to be his inevitable death. In alternating chapters from each character's point of view, we are drawn deeper into the mystery of the Society, about which Ky knows much more than he's ever let on. Being banished to the outer provinces is actually a return home for Ky, and his previous experiences may be the best chance he and Cassia have to survive the rough terrain. For that to happen, though, Cassia has to find him, and if she finds him, will her sacrifices be enough to keep them together?”
— Whitney Spotts, Schuler Books & Music, Lansing, MI
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“Seven teens are sent to a remote 'camp,' an institution equipped to cure them of their profound fears. Fort Eden is no summer camp, however, but an isolated bunker run by a prickly caretaker and the elusive program leader, Rainsford. One teen, Will Besting, knows that there is more going on than traditional treatment. Will must face his own demons and survive if he is to help the others. But can any of them truly overcome their fears? Richly woven and hauntingly intriguing, this is a must-read title for fans of the psychological thriller.”
— Julie Bond, Kepler's Books & Magazine, Menlo Park, CA
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“Natalie Stewart wonders where she belongs--in a freak show beside snake charmers and conjoined twins or in an asylum with other mute although not deaf teens? Since her mother died when she was a baby, Natalie has not been able to voice her feelings or thoughts, until the day she meets Lord Denbury -- or to be exact, a much sought after portrait of him by an unknown artist. In the manner of The Picture of Dorian Gray, Hieber has created an exquisite love story. Teens will love Natalie and Lord Denbury and hope for further adventures.”
— Karen Briggs, Great Northern Books and Hobbies, Oscoda, MI
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“This debut novel is the first in a trilogy about a dystopian America. Eve, an excellent student, escapes school when she unexpectedly finds what happens to graduating girls, destined to be used to repopulate the plague-decimated world. Eve comes upon a group of rebel boys who have fled labor camps and falls for Caleb. Their quest is to reach the safety of Califa. This first installment has the feel of The Hunger Games -- at times terrifying and at times very human.”
— Paula Primavera, Covered Treasures Bookstore, Monument, CO
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“This is a simple, seemingly straightforward story that catches the reader unexpectedly by the throat. Delaney apparently does not survive being under the icy water for 11 minutes in a Maine pond in the middle of winter, but, miraculously, she is revived. This miracle adds a serious complication to logic-bound Delaney's life when she finds out that she can now sense people's impending deaths. Written in a taut, spare style, this tale explores love, friendship, and the fine line between life and death.”
— Rebecca Waesch, Joseph-Beth Booksellers, Cincinnati, OH
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“The product of a dream collaboration between two very successful authors, this is the story of two teenagers, Josh and Emma, in 1996. Emma gets a computer as a gift, and Josh's mother sends him over to Emma's house with a free AOL disc. Once the disc is loaded and boots up, it shows Emma her Facebook page -- from 2011! Emma lets Josh in on the secret -- it turns out he has a page in 2011 too -- and the weirdness multiplies. Every time either of them makes a decision based on something they learn on Facebook, it changes their future. This fascinating book about the price of decisions and their consequences points out that what you do now can affect you forever. A fabulous read!”
— Jackie Blem, Tattered Cover Book Store, Denver, CO
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“Myra is the glue that holds her family together, until her own life starts to crumble. She competes for a scholarship to study birds in the Galapagos Islands and finds her biggest competition is the boyfriend who just dumped her. Mixing ecological facts and humor, Chandler does a brilliant job of creating a very real world, and reminds us just how important family relationships can be.”
— Vivian Evans, The King's English, Salt Lake City, UT
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“Waverly and Kieran are the oldest of their generation on board the Empyrean, one of two starships on a mission to colonize New Earth. The two teens seem destined to marry and become future leaders of the mission, but their peaceful world is shaken to the core when their sister ship, the New Horizon, makes an unprovoked attack, during which every young girl on board is kidnapped and their ship is left crippled. Waverly and Kieran are forced to make choices that will affect not only their own futures but that of the mission and everyone involved. This is a gripping novel with twists and turns that will leave readers eager for the next installment of this planned trilogy.”
— Sandy Scott, The Galaxy Bookshop, Hardwick, VT
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“Ana lives in a society where everyone is reincarnated and remembers all of their past lives. As the first new soul in 5,000 years, Ana is alone and regarded as something between a child and a mayfly. On her 18th birthday, Ana sets off on a mission to discover her origins. But, in order to gain access to the information she needs, Ana must prove that even a short-lived soul is worth loving.”
— Kristen Eaton, Phoenix Books, Essex, VT
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“This is an engaging book that I just couldn't put down! By following the life of Clem from World War II England to New York in 2001, Peet tells the story of family, duty, and the concept of home while also elucidating important historical events. The gorgeous writing invites one to re-read sentences over and over again for the pure joy of experiencing the language in this book that begs to be read again and again.”
— Carol Stoltz, Porter Square Books, Cambridge, MA
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“Familiar characters Anna and St. Clair appear in this companion novel to Anna and the French Kiss. Lola, who wears outrageous, fun outfits, thinks she has the perfect life with her family and hot rocker boyfriend. But then her old next door neighbors, the Bell twins, move back into their house. Cricket Bell, 'the boy next door,' was one of her good friends growing up, and Lola finally has to deal with her feelings for him. As in her previous novel, Perkins accurately describes what it is like to be a teenager and the angst of figuring out a relationship.”
— Jenny Cohen, Waucoma Bookstore, Hood River, OR
By Louis A. Meyer
Harcourt Children's Books
“Jacky Faber is back in the saddle and ready for vengeance in the next installment of the Bloody Jack series. Chock-full of adventure on the high seas, scheming on shore, and revenge against the misled British government that condemned Jacky to life in a penal colony in New South Wales, Meyer's latest does not disappoint in bringing us our favorite heroine's newest globe-trotting misadventures.”
— Rachel Haisley, The King's English, Salt Lake City, UT
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“Notes From an Accidental Band Geek is sweet, charming, and delightful! Dionne has crafted a story that wraps you up and pulls you into its pages. The characters are both believable -- who doesn't know a 13-year-old girl that can be sweet one minute and seemingly possessed by a demon the next minute? -- and endearing. Perfect for girls who want 'realistic' fiction with a bit of a romance. And is it wrong to feel like I missed out on the best high school years by not having been a part of marching band?”
— Kathleen March, Anderson's Bookshop, Naperville, IL
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“Ever wondered what it's like to work in a historical reenactment park? Chelsea works at Essex Historical Colonial Village, and it's more interesting that anyone could imagine: there's romance, heartbreak, and a war with the Civil War reenactment park across the street. A fun and funny teen read!”
— Lauren Peugh, Mrs. Nelson's Toy & Book Shop, La Verne, CA
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“Celtic faerie-lore comes to life in The Twelfth Stone. When a 21st-century girl comes face-to-face with the ancient world of faeries, we need no coaxing to follow along. With evocative imagery and a powerful environmental theme that bridges the two worlds, The Twelfth Stone will enchant.”
— Kat Goddard, The Bookloft, Great Barrington, MA
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“Min has broken up with Ed and is writing him a letter chronicling their relationship and all the reasons that it has come to an end. To prove to herself and her friends that the relationship is over, Min has put together all of the tokens she accumulated during the brief relationship. The box and the letter are Min's goodbye present for Ed. Each chapter begins with an illustration of an item in the box, followed by the chapter of the relationship associated with it. What better way to get over your high school relationship than reading Min's story and adding your own?”
— Marika McCoola, Odyssey Bookshop, South Hadley, MA
More Indie Next Lists
- February 2024 Indie Next List
- January 2024 Indie Next List
- Winter 2024 Reading Group Indie Next List
- January/February 2024 Kids Indie Next List
- December 2023 Indie Next List
- November 2023 Indie Next List
- November/December 2023 Kids Indie Next List
- October 2023 Indie Next List
- Fall 2023 Reading Group Indie Next List
- September 2023 Indie Next List