Spring 2010 Sneak Previews
Compiled by Shannon Maughan -- Publishers Weekly, 7/20/2009
From Sweet Dreams Lullaby by Betsy Snyder (Random)
ABRAMS
Abrams turns the page with The Jellybeans and the Big Book Bonanza by Laura Numeroff and Nate Evans, illus. by Lynn Munsinger, in which the girls find material for their school book reports at the library; Mama, Is It Summer Yet? by Nikki McClure, about a boy observing the seasons; Orange Peel’s Pocket by Rose Lewis, illus. by Grace Zong, in which a girl adopted from China learns things about her native country to share with her classmates; Oops! by Jean-Luc Fromental, illus. by Joelle Jolivet, about a family’s crazy trip home from the airport; and Because You Are My Daddy by Sherry North, illus. by Marcellus Hall, spotlighting a father’s boundless love for his child.
ABRAMS/AMULET
Amulet cracks open a bottle with The Fizzy Whiz Kid by Maiya Williams, about a middle-school boy chosen to be a national soda pop spokesman; G&G’s Handy Handbook by Amy Ignatow, a scrapbook-style debut novel about friendship; Meanwhile by Jason Shiga, a graphic novel in which readers use tabs to explore the story; Attack of the Fluffy Bunnies by Andrea Beaty, about a girl and boy charged with saving Earth from rabbit-like creatures; and The Strange Case of the Origami Yoda by Sam Riddleburger, in which a geeky kid becomes a respected source of advice when he dons a Yoda finger puppet.
BENBELLA
BenBella gets fired up for Secrets of the Dragon Riders: Your Favorite Authors on Christopher Paolini’s Inheritance Cycle: Completely Unauthorized, edited by James A. Own, a collection of essays on these popular fantasy books.
BLOOMSBURY
Bloomsbury turns heads with Captivating by Carrie Jones, the sequel to paranormal romance Need; A Whole Nother Story by Dr. Kremlin Soup, a mix of adventure, time travel and “unsolicited advice”; Calamity Jack by Shannon Hale and Dean Hale, illus. by Nathan Hale, another twisted tale from the team behind Rapunzel’s Revenge; and Too Purply! by Jean Riedy, illus. by Genevieve Leloup, a debut picture book for budding fashionistas.
CANDLEWICK
Candlewick rounds the bases with Henry Aaron’s Dream by Matt Tavares, a picture-book biography of the home-run king; Encyclopedia Mythologica: Gods and Heroes by Matthew Reinhart and Robert Sabuda, a pop-up book exploring ancient Greek, Roman, Egyptian and Norse figures; Rose’s Garden by Peter H. Reynolds, a picture-book tribute to Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy; My Havana by Rosemary Wells, illus. by Peter Ferguson, a middle-grade novel about how a young Cuban immigrant eases his homesickness; and Shakespeare Makes the Playoffs by Ron Koertge, a sequel to Shakespeare Bats Cleanup.
CANDLEWICK/TEMPLAR
Templar gets goosebumps with Big Scary Monster by Thomas Docherty, in which a bullying beast gets a fright of his own; Mr. Peek and the Misunderstanding at the Zoo by Kevin Waldron, about a quirky trail of mix-ups; How the World Works: An Interactive Look at Our Planet by Christiane Dorion, a novelty book on such topics as geology and global warming; and The Life and Times of William Shakespeare by Ari Berk and Kristen McDermott, a novelty-packed biography.
From My Brother Charlie, illus. by Shane W. Evans (Scholastic Press)
CHARLESBRIDGE
Charlesbridge takes wing with The Robin Makes a Laughing Sound: A Birder’s Journal by Sallie Wolf, a collection of bird observations through the seasons; Hip-Pocket Papa by Sandra Markle, illus. by Alan Marks, the story of the tiny Australian hip-pocket frog; Our Grandparents: A Global Album by Maya Ajmera, Shelia Kinkade and Cynthia Pon, focusing on the relationships between children and their grandparents around the world; What Will You Be, Sara Mee? by Kate Aver Avraham, illus. by Anne Sibley O’Brien, about a family’s observance of a child’s tol, the traditional Korean first-birthday celebration; and Bamboo People by Mitali Perkins, in which a teen is conscripted into the Burmese army.
CHILDREN'S BOOK PRESS
Children’s Book Press shakes a tail feather for Let Me Help!/¡Quiero ayudar!, in which a pet parrot helps his family celebrate Cinco de Mayo along the San Antonio River.
CHRONICLE
Chronicle lets the creative juices flow with Noonie’s Masterpiece by Lisa Railsback, illus. by Sarajo Frieden, a novel about a 10-year-old aspiring artist who desires a “real” family; MoMA Creative Art Book, which includes different kinds of paper and die-cuts; Sylvia Long’s Thumbelina by Sylvia Long, a retelling; The Worst-Case Scenario Survival Handbook Outlandish Junior Edition by David Borgenicht, containing tips on how to deal with vampires, outer space and time travel; and Wildlife Control by Katie Williams, a debut YA novel about a teen whose life goes into a tailspin when she lies after the murder of a classmate.
CINCO PUNTOS
Cinco Puntos salutes spring with Saltypie by Tim Tingle, illus. by Karen Clarkson, about a Choctaw family’s unique word—saltypie—for trouble and pain.
CONCORDIA
Concordia pricks up its ears for Hear Me Read Bible Stories by Mary Manz Simon, a collection of retellings in 25 words or less.
DISNEY-HYPERION
Hyperion brown bags it with Sandwich Swap by Rania Al Abdullah with Kelly DiPucchio, illus. by Tricia Tusa, a tale of tolerance that begins with a pair of sandwiches, written by the queen of Jordan; Cupcake by Charise Mericle Harper, in which a vanilla cupcake tries to fit in with fancier siblings; Heist Society by Ally Carter, starring a girl with a talent for thievery; City Dog, Country Frog by Mo Willems, illus. by Jon J Muth, a poignant story of friendship; and The Enemy by Charlie Higson, first in an adventure trilogy set in London.
DISNEY PRESS
Disney Press rules the season with Prince of Persia: A Graphic Anthology by Jordan Mechner, based on the upcoming feature film; Prince of Persia: Young Dastan, a novel about the early life of this film’s lead character; Disney Princess: Ariel and the Birthday Surprise by Gail Herman, kicking off a new chapter-book series; Phineas and Ferb Comic Reader #1, the debut title in a series based on the Disney TV show; and Toy Story Storybook Collection, 18 stories that retell all three Toy Story movies.
DISNEY LEARNING
Disney Learning celebrates spring with Mickey Goes Green by Marcy Kelman, which contains eco-friendly tips for preschoolers; Goodbye Honeypot! by Susan Amerikaner, about Pooh and friends finding new uses for old things; Baby Animals by Marcy Kelman, a padded board book; and Who’s That Baby? by Susan Amerikaner, a board book with Mylar mirror.
From The Eraserheads, illus. by Boris Kulikov (MacmillanFSG/Foster)
DK
DK channels the force with Star Wars Year by Year: A Visual Chronicle, an illustrated book that features the history and development of the Star Wars films; Star Wars Blueprints: Rebel Edition, which contains five full-color poster-sized blueprints of high-tech vehicles, weapons, armor and droids; iCarly Essential Guide, a companion to the Nickelodeon series; William Ings’ World of Cross Sections, offering cutaway looks at places and contraptions; and Civil War, an in-depth look at this conflict.
EERDMANS
Eerdmans travels through history with Ben and the Emancipation Proclamation by Patrice Sherman, illus. by Floyd Cooper, in which a self-taught young slave astonishes people by reading aloud an account of Lincoln’s proclamation; The Beatitudes: From Slavery to Civil Rights by Carole Boston Weatherford, illus. by Tim Ladwig, a story of the civil rights movement with a Biblical undercurrent; The Life of Jesus: A Rosary by Mary Billingsley, an illustrated version of this devotional prayer; Extraordinary Ernie and Marvelous Maud by Frances Watts, illus. by Judy Watson, about a kid who wins a superhero contest; and Garmann’s Street by Stian Hole, in which Garmann deals with a neighborhood bully.
EGMONT USA
Egmont polishes its glass slippers with The Cinderella Society by Kay Cassidy, a look inside a secret society of popular teen girls; The Dark Divine by Bree Despain, a retelling of the Prodigal Son story with a paranormal twist; Scones and Sensibility by Lindsay Eland, in which a girl plays matchmaker in her summer beach town; Epitaph Road by David Patneaude, a post-apocalyptic thriller; and Hidden Histories, Book One: The Invisible Order by Paul Crilley, first in a fantasy trilogy about a battle between parallel worlds.
FRANCES LINCOLN
Frances Lincoln tunes up for spring with Song for Jamela by Niki Daly, in which reality TV comes to Jamela’s African township; Max and the Lost Note by Graham Marsh, about a boy who loses a note downtown while composing his latest song; Shapeshifters by Adrian Mitchell, illus. by Alan Lee, featuring retellings of Ovid’s tales; Gary and Ray by Sarah Adams, in which a gorilla and a sunbird become best friends; and Remembering Green by Lesley Beak, a futuristic environmental story.
FREE SPIRIT
Free Spirit tells it like it is with Siblings: You’re Stuck with Each Other, So Stick Together by James Crist and Elizabeth Verdick, which offers humorous and practical advice; Teen Cyberbullying Investigated: Where Do Your Rights End and Consequences Begin? by Thomas Jacobs, a collection of landmark court cases; and What’s Up with My Family? by Annie Fox, illus. by Matt Kindt, which follows the lives of six middle-school students as they negotiate family rules, routines and responsibilities.
GROUNDWOOD
Groundwood Books sizes up the season with Petit, the Monster by Isol, in which a boy doesn’t understand why he’s good one moment and naughty the next; The Immortal Lover: Brunhilda’s Ring, retold by Jorge Luján, illus. by Linda Wolfsgruber, the myths that inspired Wagner’s Ring of the Nibelung; Portrait of a Santero by Nicholas Herrera and Elisa Amado, photos by John Denne, featuring the folk artists known as santeros; Home Is Beyond the Mountains by Celia Barker Lottridge, the tale of child survivors during the Armenian massacre; and A Gift from Childhood by Baba Wagué Diakité, a tale about the author’s early years in a traditional Malian village.
HARLEQUIN
Harlequin Teen gets deep with My Soul to Save by Rachel Vincent, second in the supernatural Soul Screamers trilogy; and The Iron King by Julie Kagawa, in which a teen girl discovers she is the daughter of a mythical faery king and a pawn in a deadly war.
HARPERCOLLINS/AMISTAD
Amistad floats like a butterfly and stings like a bee with Muhammad Ali: The People’s Champion by Walter Dean Myers, illus. by Alix Delinois, a biography of the boxer; Lockdown by Walter Dean Myers, a look into the world of a juvenile detention center inmate; and One Crazy Summer by Rita Williams-Garcia, about three sisters in 1968 who are searching for the mother who abandoned them.
HARPERCOLLINS/BALZER & BRAY
Balzer & Bray slips on some Jimmy Choos for The Carrie Diaries by Candace Bushnell, about Sex and the City character Carrie Bradshaw’s high school years; two Cat the Catbooks by Mo Willems, starting an early childhood concept series; The Incorrigible Children of Ashton Place, Book One: The Mysterious Howling by Maryrose Wood, illus. by Jon Klassen, in which a young governess takes on the challenge of minding three children who have been raised by wolves; Henry in Love by Peter McCarty, about a kindergarten crush; and Fat Vampire: A Never-Coming-of-Age Story by Adam Rex, a humorous teen novel.
From Roly Poly Pangolin by Anna Dewdney (Penguin/Viking)
HARPERCOLLINS/COLLINS
Collins pins on a corsage for Prom and Party Etiquette by Cindy Post Senning and Peggy Post, a guide to stress-free fun; Rules for School by Alec Greven, advice from the 10-year-old author; Global Warming by Seymour Simon, demystifying the science of this phenomenon; and Where Do Polar Bears Live? by Sarah Thomson, illus. by Jason Chin, about these endangered creatures and their shrinking habitat.
HARPERCOLLINS/GREENWILLOW
Greenwillow is abloom with My Garden by Kevin Henkes, about a special plot of land that grows chocolate bunnies and jelly-bean bushes; Time You Let Me In: 25 Poets Under 25, edited by Naomi Shihab Nye, a collection for teens; My Heart Is Like a Zoo by Michael Hall, a picture book featuring animals constructed with heart shapes; A Conspiracy of Kings by Megan Whalen Turner, fourth volume in the Attolia series starring Eugenides; and Sir Charlie Chaplin: The Funniest Man in the World by Sid Fleischman, an illustrated biography of the film icon.
HARPERCOLLINS/HARPER
Harper shuffles into spring with Zombie Hunters #1 by John Kloepfer, illus. by Steve Wolfhard, first in a middle-grade series about kids warding off a zombie invasion; Kindergarten Diary by Antoinette Portis, a girl’s chronicle of the days leading up to the beginning of kindergarten; Emily the Strange: Dark Times by Rob Reger, in which the titular fashion icon travels through time; Big Nate by Lincoln Peirce, inspired by the Big Nate comic strip about a middle-school boy; and Warriors: Battle of the Clans by Erin Hunter, a companion book to the Warriors series.
HARPERCOLLINS/HARPERFESTIVAL
HarperFestival goes to the dogs with Marley Steals the Show by John Grogan, illus. by Richard Cowdrey, in which Marley is entered in a local pet show; Biscuit’s Earth Day Celebration by Alyssa Satin Capucilli, about the pooch’s efforts to take care of the planet; and Batman Classic: Gotham’s Villains Unleashed by John Sazaklis, launching a new series about the Dark Knight and sidekick Robin.
HARPERCOLLINS/HARPERTEEN
HarperTeen is on the lookout for The Body Finder by Kimberly Derting, about a girl who can sense the imprint that the dead leave on their murderers; Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver, in which Samantha relives the circumstances of her death seven times; Stranded by J.T. Dutton, about a girl involved in a mystery in a small Iowa farm community; Tangled by Carolyn Mackler, in which fate brings together four teens in mysterious ways; and Bomb by Alice Kuipers, a novel written in the form of a teenage girl’s journal.
HARPERCOLLINS/TEGEN
Katherine Tegen Books heads for the finish line with Race You to Bed by Bob Shea, a picture book about who can get to bed first; A Nest for Celeste: A Story About Art, Inspiration, and the Meaning of Home by Henry Cole, a novel about a mouse and her friendship with Audubon’s apprentice; Bell Hoot Fables: The Hidden Boy by Jon Berkeley, first in a fantasy trilogy set in the strange land of Bell Hoot; Falcon Quinn, Book One: Black Mirror by Jennifer Finney Boylan, about a 13-year-old boy who enrolls in the Academy of Monsters; and Lies: A Gone Novel by Michael Grant, another installment in the fantasy thriller series.
HARPERCOLLINS/RAYO
Rayo is ready for spring with Once Upon a Time/Había una vez by Rueben Martinez, illus. by Raúl Colón, a collection of popular Latino folk tales; and ¡Muu, Moo!; Animal Nursery Rhymes/Rimas de animals by Alma Flor Ada and F. Isabel Campoy, trans. by Rosalma Zubizarreta, illus. by Viví Escrivá, a bilingual collection of traditional animal rhymes from Spain and Latin America.
HARPERCOLLINS/WALDEN POND PRESS
Walden Pond Press is charged up with Robomom by Tim and Kady Allen, about a girl who creates a flawless robot replacement for her mother; Comic by Frank Cottrell Boyce, about a prematurely old-looking 12-year-old who cons his way onto the first shuttle to take kids into space as a chaperone; Max Cassidy in... Shadow Island by Paul Adam, an action-adventure novel; The Will of Will Wolfkin by Steven Knight, in which a boy discovers he’s heir to the kingdom hidden beneath Iceland; and Finding Danny by Linzi Glass, about a girl who is a rescuer of shelter dogs.
HOLIDAY HOUSE
Holiday House sparks an idea with The Shocking Truth About Energy by Loreen Leedy and Andrew Schuerger, a picture book about wise use of energy sources; Love-a-Duck by Alan James Brown, illus. by Francesca Chessa, which follows the adventures of a rubber duck; Cinco de Mouse-O by Judy Cox, illus. by Jeffery Ebbeler, about a hungry mouse who sniffs out a Cinco de Mayo festival; The Carbon Diaries, 2017 by Saci Lloyd, a sequel to Lloyd’s previous eco-thriller; and Addicted to Her by Janet Lynch, about a teenage boy derailed by love.
HOUGHTON MIFFLIN HARCOURT/CLARION
Clarion steps onto the scene with Gingerfoot by Kate Milford, a historical fantasy featuring a traveling medicine show; Alchemy and Meggy Swann by Karen Cushman, in which a girl assists her alchemist father in Elizabethan London; The War to End All Wars: World War I by Russell Freedman, a graphic account of the “Great War”; and Mimi’s First Dada Catifesto by Shelley Jackson, a whimsical introduction to the Dadaist movement.
HMH/GRAPHIA
Graphia knows who they’re gonna callwith Ghost Huntress Book 3: The Reason by Marley Gibson, is the latest in this series; The Clearing by Heather Davis, a paranormal romance about a modern girl in love with a boy from 1944; and Swoon at Your Own Risk by Sydney Salter, in which a girl tries to change her boy-crazy ways.
From Here Comes the Garbage Barge,
HMH/HARCOURT
illus. by Red Nose Studio (Random/Schwartz & Wade)
Harcourt looks at spring from both sides with Jekel Loves Hyde by Beth Fantaskey, a novel that blends murder, mystery, romance and the supernatural; Living Hell by Catherine Jinks, a sci-fi thriller; Monkey: A Trickster Tale from India by Gerald McDermott; This World We Live In by Susan Beth Pfeffer, the final volume in the trilogy that began with Life as We Knew It; and Lives of the Pirates: Swashbucklers, Scoundrels (Neighbors Beware) by Kathleen Krull, illus. by Kathryn Hewitt, a collection of pirate profiles.
HMH/HOUGHTON MIFFLIN
Houghton Mifflin extends an invitation with The Birthday Ball by Lois Lowry, illus. by Jules Feiffer, about a princess who is expected to find a suitor at her 16th birthday ball; Adventures of a Cat-Whiskered Girl by Daniel Pinkwater, a wacky tale set in Poughkeepsie, N.Y.; Palazzo Inverso by D.B. Johnson, a picture book inspired by the work of M.C. Escher; Lyle Walks the Dogs by Bernard Waber, illus. by Paulis Waber, in which the famous crocodile gets a dog-walking job; and Theodosia and the Eyes of Horus by R.L. LaFevers, more adventures of a girl who can detect black magic.
HMH/SANDPIPER
Sandpiper keeps it in the family with The Sisters Eight Book 5: Marcia’s Madness by Lauren Baratz-Logsted with Greg Logsted and Jackie Logsted, illus. by Lisa Weber, spotlighting the observant sister with the scientific mind who would never do anything crazy.
HMH/HMH BOOKS
HMH Books hits the road with Curious George Travel Kit and Five Little Monkeys Travel Kit, which each contain a paperback, audiobook on CD, an activity book and other surprises; Gossie and Friends: Hide and Seek by Olivier Dunrea, a novelty book with flaps and textures; Kisses by Barney Saltzberg, an interactive lift-the-flap book that squeaks; and Curious George Curious Baby: My First Words at the Farm, a board book packaged with baby cap and booties.
IMMEDIUM
Immedium pounces into spring with The Year of the Tiger: Tales from the Chinese Zodiac by Oliver Chin, illus. by Justin Roth, in which a tiger cub befriends a human girl.
KAR-BEN
Kar-Ben spreads the word with Tower of Babel by A.S. Gadot, illus. by Cecilia Rebora, a retelling of the Bible story; Feivel’s Flying Horses by Heidi Smith Hyde, illus. by Johanna Van der Sterre, inspired by stories of immigrant Jewish woodcarvers who crafted carousel horses for Coney Island; A Tale of Two Seders by Mindy Avra Portnoy, illus. by Valeria Cis, about the new family traditions that follow a divorce; Benno and the Night of Broken Glass by Meg Wiviott, illus. by Josée Bisaillon, a look at the days leading up to Kristallnacht in Germany, as observed by a cat; and Hot Pursuit by Stacia Deutsch and Rhody Cohon, illus. by Craig Orback, a recounting of the murder of three Civil Rights workers in 1964 Mississippi.
KENSINGTON/DAFINA
Dafina Books gets a hall pass for Drama High: Culture Clash by L. Divine, the 10th volume in this series; Got It Going On and Get What You Give by Stephanie Perry Moore, two titles joining the Beta Gamma Pi series featuring girls who balance their faith with the pressures of Greek life; and Cool Like That by Nikki Carter, a new entry in the So For Real series.
KIDS CAN
Kids Can Press has the 411 with Girl in the Know: Your Inside-and-Out Guide to Growing Up by Anne Katz, illus. by Monica Melnychuk, a health guide; Have You Ever Seen a Stork in a Log Cabin? by Etta Kaner, illus. by Jeff Szuc, an introduction to animal habitats; Scaredy Squirrel in the City by Mélanie Watt, in which the title character gets lost; The Adventures of Jack Lime by James Leck, a film noir satire from a high-school perspective; and Public Space by Hadley Dyer, illus. by Marc Ngui, a look at the concept of public spaces.
From Benno and the Night of Broken Glass,
LEE & LOW
illus. by Josée Bisaillon (Kar-Ben)
Lee & Low Books marks its calendar for Only One Year by Andrea Cheng, illus. by Nicole Wong, about a child who returns home after living with extended family in China; Amazing Faces, edited by Lee Bennett Hopkins, illus. by Chris Soentpiet, a poetry anthology about feelings and emotions; The Can Man by Laura Williams, illus. by Craig Orback, in which a boy who has saved money for a skateboard gives his earnings to a homeless man; Seaside Dream by Janet Costa Bates, illus. by Lambert Davis, about a girl who encourages her grandmother to visit her home country of Cape Verde; and Yasmin’s Hammer by Ann Malaspina, illus. by Doug Chayka, about a Bangladeshi girl who works in a brick yard but dreams of going to school.
LERNER/CAROLRHODA
Carolrhoda Books runs the bases with Dino-Baseball by Lisa Wheeler, illus. by Barry Gott, in which the Meat-eaters and the Veggiesaurs face off; Noah’s Bark by Stephen Krensky, illus. by Rogé, a whimsical take on the Bible story; Mallory Goes Green! by Laurie Friedman, illus. by Jennifer Kalis, in which Mallory joins the school Environmental Club; Alien Encounter by Pamela F. Service, illus. by Mike Gorman, about an alien sent on a mission to the UFO Festival in Roswell, N.M.; and An Unspeakable Crime: The Prosecution and Persecution of Leo Frank by Elaine Marie Alphin, which explores Frank’s conviction and lynching for allegedly raping a 13-year-old girl in 1913 Georgia.
LERNER/MILLBROOK
Millbrook Press pauses for The Punctuation Station and But and For, Yet and Nor: What Is a Conjuntion?, two grammar books by Brian P. Cleary, illus. by Joanne Lew-Vriethoff and Brian Gable.
LERNER/GRAPHIC UNIVERSE
Graphic Universe lets readers call the shots with Attack of the Mutant Meteors by Dan Jolley, illus. by David Witt;and School of Evil by Robin Mayhall, illus. by Scott Rosema, new to the Twisted Journeys graphic novel series that allows readers to select from several plot options.
KINGFISHER
Kingfisher puts on its lab coat for Chemistry by Simon Basher and Dan Green, a science subject guide featuring manga-style characters; Gifted: Finders Keepers by Marilyn Kaye, fourth in the adventure series about teens with supernatural gifts; The Kingfisher Dinosaur Encyclopedia by Mike Benton; Through Time: New York City, a look at the development of the Big Apple since its early Native American settlements; and The Soccer Encyclopedia, which has been updated to include the 2010 World Cup.
LITTLE, BROWN
Little, Brown waves its wand for The Very Fairy Princess by Julie Andrews and Emma Walton Hamilton, about a spirited tomboy princess; Sit-In: How Four Boys Stood Up by Sitting Down by Andrea Davis Pinkney, illus. by Brian Pinkney, a picture book marking the 50th anniversary of the Woolworth’s lunch counter sit-in; 13 Treasures by Michelle Harrison, a teen novel about a girl with second sight; The Prince of the Mist by Carlos Ruiz Zafón, a paranormal thriller; and Sisters Red by Jackson Pearce, a paranormal modernization of the Little Red Riding Hood tale.
LITTLE, BROWN/LB KIDS
LB Kids slathers on the sunscreen for Seashore Baby by Elise Broach, illus. by Cori Doerrfeld, a lift-the-flap board book about fun in the sun; Boy of Mine by Jabari Asim, illus. by LeUyen Pham, a bedtime book with art inspired by Van Gogh’s “Starry Night”; I Love You, Little Pumpkin and Twinkle, Twinkle, You’re My Star by Sandra Magsamen, two novelty entries in the Snuggle-Me Stories line; and Where’s My Sweetie Pie? by Ed Emberley, a lift-the-flap board book.
LITTLE, BROWN/POPPY
Poppy negotiates the catwalk with All That Glitters Is Not Gucci: A Poseur Novel by Rachel Maude, more exploits of aspiring teen fashion designers; These Boots Are Made for Stalking: A Clique Novel by Lisi Harrison, in which the Pretty Committee stirs up more hijinx; Alphas (Part Deux) by Lisi Harrison, second in the Clique spin-off series about the Alpha Academy; Reality Check by Jen Calonita, in which a 16-year-old girl and her friends are chosen to star in a reality series; and The Daughters-Of Club by Joanna Philbin, a debut novel about the stresses of being the daughter of a celebrity.
MACMILLAN/FARRAR, STRAUS AND GIROUX
FSG pays it forward with The Karma Club by Jessica Brody, in which a girl plans to clean up the messes that the universe leaves behind; Easy as Pie by Cari Best, illus. by Melissa Sweet, in which young Jacob tries his hand at baking in his Easy-On oven after watching a chef on TV; Once Upon a Baby Brother by Sarah Sullivan, illus. by Tricia Tusa, about an aspiring writer whose life is disrupted by the arrival of her baby brother; The Celestial Globe by Marie Rutkoski, the second volume in the Kronos Chronicles; and Flash by Michael Cadnum, about a momentous day in the lives of five young people in the San Francisco Bay Area.
MACMILLAN/FSG/FOSTER
Frances Foster Books goes back to the drawing board with The Eraserheads by Kate Banks, illus. by Boris Kulikov, in which three pencil erasers have an adventure after making a mistake; Dinosaur Mountain: The Search for Something Big by Deborah Kogan Ray, the true story of dinosaur hunter Earl Douglas; The Last Best Days of Summer by Valerie Hobbs, about a girl’s relationship with her grandmother; Stuck on Earth by David Klass, about an alien who visits earth and tries to decide if humans are worth saving; and This Gorgeous Game by Donna Freitas, a YA novel about an aspiring writer whose relationship with her literary idol, a priest, takes a painful turn.
MACMILLAN/FEIWEL AND FRIENDS
Feiwel and Friends visits the White House Lawn with First Pup by Bob Staake, a picture book about Bo, the Obama family’s dog; Little Diva by LaChanze, illus. by Brian Pinkney, the tale of a Broadway baby making her debut; Beautiful Yetta by Daniel Pinkwater, illus. by Jill Pinkwater, about how birds of different feathers find common ground in friendship; School! The Adventures at the Harvey N. Trouble School by Kate McMullan, illus. by George Booth, a humorous look at life lessons learned at an unusual institution; and Wolfling by Steve Feasey, a novel starring a boy who discovers he’s a werewolf being hunted by a vampire.
MACMILLAN/HENRY HOLT
Henry Holt comes out swinging with Clemente! by Willie Perdomo, illus. by Bryan Collier, a picture-book biography of baseball great Roberto Clemente; Sleepy, Oh So Sleepy by Denise Fleming, a bedtime book filled with sleepy babies; Wonder Horse: The True Story of the World’s Smartest Horse by Emily Arnold McCully, a profile of an extraordinary animal and his trainer; The Wager by Donna Jo Napoli, a fantasy novel set in ancient Sicily; and Once by Morris Gleitzman, about a Jewish boy trying to save his parents in Nazi-occupied Poland.
From Hot Rod Hamster,
MACMILLAN/HENRY HOLT/ OTTAVIANO
illus. by Derek Anderson (Scholastic Press)
Christy Ottaviano Books checks the engine with The Village Garage by G. Brian Karas, about a busy town’s maintenance crews; I’m a Truck Driver by Jonathan London, illus. by David Parkins, which puts readers behind the wheel of various trucks; Bridget’s Beret by Tom Lichtenheld, about an artistic girl whose inspiration blows away with her favorite chapeau; My Life as a Book by Janet Tashjian, illus. by Jake Tashjian, about a boy’s autobiographical graphic-novel creation; and The Dowser’s Son by Kimberly Willis Holt, in which a boy traveling the Oregon Trail realizes that he has inherited his father’s gift of “dowsing” or finding water deep underground.
MACMILLAN/ROARING BROOK
Roaring Brook serves up Emily Stew by Thomas Rockwell, illus. by David McPhail, a poetry collection about a girl’s inner life; Popville, a pop-up that begins with a house and unfolds into a whole village as the pages turn; Last Song by Eric Rohmann, featuring a family of squirrels spending the day together; Abby Carnelia’s One and Only Magical Power by David Pogue, in which Abby thinks her power is useless until she heads to magic camp; and The Baby Code by Caragh O’Brien, a dystopian novel about a 16-year-old midwife.
MACMILLAN/ROARING BROOK/FLASH POINT
Flash Point hatches a spring list with Born to Be Giants: How Baby Dinosaurs Grew to Rule the World by Lita Judge, about how these babies were incubated, hatched and raised; Black Jack: The Story of Jack Johnson by Charles R. Smith, illus. by Shane W. Evans, a biography of the first black man to win the heavyweight championship in boxing; Splink!: A Young Writer’s Handbook by Ellen Potter and Anne Mazer, containing inspirational advice; Benedict Arnold by Steve Sheinkin, an in-depth look at this Revolutionary War figure; and Short: Walking Tall in an Extra-Large World by John Schwartz, exploring the science and cultural perceptions associated with height.
MACMILLAN/ROARING BROOK/PORTER
Neal Porter Books opens its umbrella for Baby Shower by Jane Breskin Zalben, in which a girl’s wish for a pet makes it rain cats and dogs; Hey, Rabbit! by Sergio Ruzzier, about a generous rabbit who finds gifts for all in his suitcase; What If? by Laura Vaccaro Seeger, a tale of friendship; Nobody by Liz Rosenberg, illus. by Julie Downing, in which George’s imaginary friend gets him into a series of scrapes; and Tiger and Turtle by James Rumford, about two animals who fight over a flower but eventually become friends.
MARSHALL CAVENDISH
Marshall Cavendish gets ready to bang the erasers for Chalk by Bill Thomson, in which three kids’ chalk drawings come to life; Barack Obama: Only in America and Oprah: The Little Speaker by Carole Boston Weatherford, two picture-book biographies; Best Friends Forever: A World War II Scrapbook by Beverly Patt, illus. by Shula Klinger, in which two girls, one in a Japanese internment camp, become pen pals; and Spotting for Nellie by Pamela Lowell, about two sisters whose relationship is strained when one suffers a serious gym injury.
NOMAD
Nomad packs its suitcase for Discover the Seven Wonders of the World: Amazing Monuments to Civilizations by Carmella Van Vleet, illus. by Shawn Braley, an introduction to these monuments via hands-on activities; Amazing Africa Projects You Can Build Yourself by Carla Mooney, illus. by Megan Stearns; and World Myths and Legends: 25 Fascinating Projects You Can Build Yourself by Kathryn Ceceri, illus. by Shawn Braley.
OCTOPUS BOOKS
Octopus sinks its teeth into How to Date a Vampire by Sophie Collins, a guide for teens who are drawn to (blood)suckers.
PEACHTREE
Peachtree looks for a hit with Where’s Catkin? by Janet Lord, illus. by Julie Paschkis, about a curious cat and the animals it encounters; and Back to Bed, Ed by Sebastian Braun, starring a mouse who loves going to bed, but hates staying there.
PELICAN
Pelican saddles up with Cowgirl Alphabet by Laurie Knowlton, illus. by Catherine Knowlton; Way Out West on My Little Pony by Jan Peck, illus. by Herb Leonhard, about a girl’s adventures while trotting down a Western trail; Voices of Gettysburg by Sherry Garland, illus. by Judith Hierstein, in which witnesses of the battle share their stories; The Emperor’s Army by Virginia Walton Pilegard, illus. by Adrian Tans, in which a Chinese boy living under the first emperor’s rule discovers a terracotta army; and Today Is Monday in Texas, adapted by Johnette Downing, illus. by Deborah Kadair, a picture-book version of a traditional song about food.
PENGUIN/DIAL
Dial checks the forecast for Drizzle by K.D. Van Cleve, about a girl’s quest to save her family’s chocolate rhubarb farm; The Sky Is Everywhere by Jandy Nelson, a debut novel in which a popular teen musician’s sister suddenly dies; Bunny Days by Tao Nyeu, starring six bunnies, two accident-prone goats and a handy bear; The Line by Teri Hall, an urban futuristic debut novel; and Incarceron by Catherine Fisher, a fantasy adventure featuring a sentient prison from which no one has ever escaped.
PENGUIN/DUTTON
Dutton twirls its lasso for Every Cowgirl Needs a Horse by Rebecca Janni, illus. by Lynne Avril, in which a preschooler fires up her imagination; Fourteen by Lauren Myracle, the fourth book about Winnie Perry; Simon Bloom: The Order of Chaos by Michael Reisman, in which Simon and pals use the power of chemistry to save the world; Eleventh Grade Burns by Heather Brewer, more adventures of half human, half vampire Vladimir Tod; and Will Grayson, Will Grayson by John Green and David Levithan, a YA story told in two distinct voices.
PENGUIN/GROSSET & DUNLAP
Grosset & Dunlap waddles into spring with The Penguins of Madagascar: Gone in a Flash by Aaron Rosenberg, in which penguins experiment with a tourist’s camera; Batman: The Brave and the Bold: Terror on Dinosaur Island! by Jake Black, in which Batman and Plastic Man thwart Gorilla Grodd’s evil plot; Frankly, Frankie #1 by Amanda Stern, the as-yet-untitled first volume in a series starring a spunky heroine; Bedeviled: The Good, the Bad and the Ugly Dress by Shani Petroff, illus. by J. David McKenney, about a girl who has inherited her devil-dad’s powers; and Hank Zipzer #17: A Brand-New Me! by Henry Winkler and Lin Oliver, in which Hank starts middle school.
PENGUIN/PHILOMEL
Philomel heads for the dugout with The Batboy by Mike Lupica, about a boy who gets a dream job with his hometown baseball team; You Are My Wish by Maryann Cusimano Love, illus. by Satomi Ichikawa, celebrating children and their grandparents; Ranger’s Apprentice, Book 7: Erak’s Ransom by John Flanagan, high adventure in the desert; Crocodile Tears: An Alex Rider Adventure by Anthony Horowitz, the latest adventures of the young spy; and Mockingbird by Kathryn Erskine, a novel narrated by a girl with Asperger’s Syndrome whose brother has been killed in a school shooting.
PENGUIN/PRICE STERN SLOAN
PSS! won’t let the bed bugs bite with Goodnight Dog by Ed Heck, a humorous how-to book; The Great Matzoh Hunt, illus. by Jannie Ho, in which Bunny, Turtle and others search the house for the hidden matzoh; A Very Special Easter, illus. by John and Wendy, in which baby animals celebrate the holiday; and The Mr. Men Show: Little Miss Daredevil and the Super-Speed Scooter, in which the titular character takes Mr. Quiet on the ride of his life.
PENGUIN/PUFFIN
Puffin follows its compass north with Junior Explorer: Book 2: The Great Alaska Adventure! by Jeff Corwin, in which the Baxter kids learn about the 49th state’s diverse ecosystem; and Girls Gone Green, profiling real-life girls who are driven reduce the carbon footprint on our planet.
PENGUIN/PUFFIN/SPEAK
Speak primps for Shadow Mirror by Richie Tankersley Cusick, a companion to Walk of the Spirits; Little Miss Red by Robin Palmer, a twist on Little Red Riding Hood; and S.A.S.S.: Up Over Down Under: A S.A.S.S. Super Special, an exchange-student tale of romance in Australia and the U.S.
From Clemente!, illus. by Bryan Collier (Macmillan/Holt)
PENGUIN/PUTNAM
Putnam has a list to dye for with The Easter Egg by Jan Brett, a holiday tale; Tarra & Bella: The Elephant and Dog who Became Best Friends by Carol Buckley, a true story of friendship; Summer According to Humphrey by Betty Birney, more adventures of the intrepid hamster; Palace Beautiful by Sarah DeFord Williams, a debut novel about three girls who find a journal from 1918 and wonder if its author is haunting them; and Boys, Girls and Other Hazardous Materials by Rosalind Wiseman, a debut novel from the author of Queen Bees and Wannabees.
PENGUIN/RAZORBILL
Razorbill is checking things twice with The Naughty List by Suzanne Young, about a girl who is a cheerleader by day and a cheating-boyfriend spy by night; Griff Carver, Hallway Patrol, about a middle-school kid with a badge; Classy: Be a Lady Not a Tramp by Derek Blasberg, secrets from a fashion journalist; Vampire Academy Book Five by Richelle Mead; and The Good Girl’s Guide to Getting Kidnapped by Yxta Maya Murray, about the true identify of a mysterious and popular girl.
PENGUIN/VIKING
Viking crosses its heart with For Keeps by Natasha Friend, in which a girl gets reacquainted with the dad she never knew; Roly Poly Pangolin by Anna Dewdney, in which the shy titular animal makes a friend; Superman by Ralph Cosentino, the story of how Clark Kent became Superman; The Secret Year by Jennifer Hubbard, in which a boy tries to find answers in his girlfriend’s journal after she dies; and Something Like Fate by Susane Colasanti, about a girl torn between her best friend and her best friend’s boyfriend.
PENGUIN/WARNE
Frederick Warne hops into spring with The Tale of Jemima Puddle-Duck: A Story Board Book, Peter Rabbit Playtime Tale, Peter Rabbit Sleepytime and Peter Rabbit What’s That Noise? all new entries in the Peter Rabbit Naturally Better line.
PINEAPPLE PRESS
Pineapple straps on a pith helmet for Invasion of the Iguanas: Exotic Pets Gone Wild in Florida by Virginia Aronson and Allyn Szejko, about the proliferation of these creatures.
RANDOM HOUSE
Random House fluffs its pillow for Sweet Dreams Lullaby by Betsy Snyder, about a bunny being tucked in; Party by Tom Leveen, a debut novel in which 11 characters share their view of a raging end-of-school-year party; The Little Composter by Jan Gerardi, first in the Teenie Greenies line of environmentally friendly novelty board books; Turtle in Paradise by Jennifer L. Holm, in which a girl is sent to live with relatives she barely knows in 1935 Key West; and The Secret Saturdays: The Call of Kur, inspired by the TV series about cryptozoologist Zak Saturday.
RANDOM HOUSE/COREY
Robin Corey Books finds the beat of the street with Gigi in the Big City by Charise Mericle Harper, a novelty book about a girl’s trip to the city; Oh, the Places You’ll Go Pop-up! by Dr. Seuss, pop-ups by David A. Carter; and Daddy Calls Me Doodlebug by J.D. Lester, illus. by Hiroe Nakata, exploring the playful interaction between kids and their dads.
RANDOM HOUSE/DELACORTE
Delacorte Press gets some digits with Gimme a Call by Sarah Mlynowski, about a girl who starts getting advice-laden phones calls from herself; The Dead-Tossed Waves by Carrie Ryan, a companion to The Forest of Hands and Teeth; All Unquiet Things by Anna Jarzab, a mystery-thriller debut; The Story of Cirrus Flux by Matthew Skelton, a historical adventure; and The Necromancer by Michael Scott, book four in theSecrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel series.
RANDOM HOUSE/FICKLING
David Fickling Books brings in da noise with Boom! by Mark Haddon, a humorous middle-grade novel; The Smash! Smash! Truck by Aidan Potts, about the sound and science of glass recycling; The Storyteller’s Secrets by Tony Mitton and Peter Bailey, in which a mysterious traveler regales Toby and Tess with magical tales; Out of the Woods by Lyn Gardener, a sequel to Into the Woods; and Flightsend by Linda Newbery, in which Charlie’s surprising summer leads her to healing and self discovery.
RANDOM HOUSE/GOLDEN
Golden Books puckers up for Kiss Kiss by Selma Mandine, in which a teddy bear gets lots of kisses; Bunny’s Garden, a lift-the-flap title featuring characters from Pat the Bunny; We Planted a Tree by Diane Muldrow, illus. by Bob Staake, about two families that plant a tree in different parts of the world; and Barbie in A Mermaid Tale, a retelling of the direct-to-DVD movie.
RANDOM HOUSE/KNOPF
Knopf asks for seconds with Lunch Lady and the Author Visit Vendetta by Jarrett J. Krosoczka, in which Lunch Lady has a weird feeling about the school’s special guest; Very LeFreak by Rachel Cohn, starring a college freshman addicted to technology; Miss Brooks Loves Books! (and I don’t) by Barbara Bottner, illus. by Michael Emberley, about a librarian who gets everyone—save for first-grader Missy—excited about books; and Inch by Inch by Leo Lionni, a 50th anniversary edition.
RANDOM HOUSE/LAMB
Wendy Lamb Books dons a coonskin hat for The Woodsrunner by Gary Paulsen, about a boy who must use his tracking skills to rescue his parents on the frontier during the American Revolution; Ring of Five by Eoin McNamee, first in a new series set at a school for spies; Zigzag Kids Book 1: Mitchell by Patricia Reilly Giff, starting a series that takes place in an after-school program; Folly by Marthe Jocelyn, a historical novel set in Victorian London; and Calvin Coconut: Dog Heaven by Graham Salisbury, illus. by Jacqueline Rogers, further adventures of fourth-grader Calvin in Hawaii.
RANDOM HOUSE/SCHWARTZ & WADE
Schwartz & Wade Books gets ready to blast off with Northward to the Moon by Polly Horvath, a sequel to My One Hundred Adventures; Child of the Civil Rights Movement by Paula Young Shelton, illus. by Raúl Colón, a firsthand account of growing up amid turbulent times by the daughter of activist Andrew Young; Here Comes the Garbage Barge by Jonah Winter, illus. by Red Nose Studio, a true story of garbage on the high seas; Paris in the Spring with Picasso by Joan Yolleck, illus. by Marjorie Priceman, an introduction to contemporary art and literature in the City of Light; and Sunday Is for God by Michael McGowan, illus. by Lou Fancher and Steve Johnson, in which a boy comes to appreciate church.
From We Planted a Tree, illus. by Bob Staake (Random/Golden)
RUNNING PRESS
Running Press looks to the heavens with Aries Rising and Taurus Eyes, two entries in the Star-Crossed series that combines romance and astrology; Lost Souls: Burning Sky created by Jordan Weisman, written by Mel Odom, first in a series based on the end of the Mayan calendar; Nanovar: Prank Week by Jordan Weisman, a fantasy book that ties in with a computer game; and Feast of Freedom by Walter Staib and Jennifer Fox, the story of Philadelphia’s historic City Tavern restaurant.
SCHOLASTIC/BLUE SKY
Blue Sky Press counts the ways with How Do Dinosaurs Love Their Cats? and How Do Dinosaurs Love Their Dogs? by Jane Yolen, illus. by Mark Teague, two new board books about the imagined world of dinos; and Virginia Hamilton: Speeches, Essays, and Conversations, edited by Arnold Adoff and Kacy Cook, a tribute to the late author.
SCHOLASTIC/CARTWHEEL
Cartwheel moooves into spring with Wow, It’s a Cow! by Trudy and Jay Harris, illus. by Paige Keiser, a guessing-game flap book; Astroblast!: Code Blue by Bob Kolar, first in an early-reader series with visual puzzles and games; Here Comes Easter! by Caroline Jayne Church, a touch-and-feel holiday book; Princess Potty and Pirate Potty, toilet-training tales with punch-out hats; and Rock & Roll: Shapes by Salina Yoon, a novelty book that introduces basic shapes.
SCHOLASTIC/CHICKEN HOUSE
Chicken House pulls its ripcord for Freefall by Roderick Gordon and Brian Williams, which follows Tunnels and Deeper; Numbers by Rachel Ward, about a girl who can see the dates people will die; Wolven by Di Toft, in which a boy learns that the government is trying to train werewolves as weapons; Stolen by Lucy Christopher, a debut novel written as a letter from a victim to her abductor; and The Pickle King by Rebecca Promitzer, a mystery in which a pickle factory’s owner is found dead.
SCHOLASTIC/EN ESPAÑOL
Scholastic en Español greets the spring with Muerta de Tinta (Inkdeath) by Cornelia Funke; El soñador (The Dreamer) by Pam Muñoz Ryan, illus. by Peter Sís; Bakugan: Guía official (Bakugan Official Handbook) by Tracey West; and Clifford: El campeón (Clifford: The Champion) by Norman Bridwell.
SCHOLASTIC/GRAPHIX
Graphix says “cheese” with Smile by Raina Telgemeier, a true coming-of-age story involving a girl’s dental drama; Missile Mouse #1: The Star Crusher by Jake Parker, in which a space hero mouse battles giant slugs and other creatures to save the day; and Copper by Kazu Kibuishi, a comprehensive collection of the popular Web comic about a boy and his dog.
SCHOLASTIC/LEVINE
Arthur A. Levine Books wraps up the season with The Perfect Gift by Mary Newell DePalma, in which a bird’s story about how her gift was stolen ends up making an even better gift; Eighth-Grade Superzero by Olugbemisola Rhuday Perkovich, a debut novel starring a kid who dreams of comic book heroism; and The Gun, the Heart, and the Perico by Francisco X. Stork, in which two teenage friends fall in love with the same girl.
SCHOLASTIC LICENSED PUBLISHING
Scholastic Licensed Publishing gets sweet on Angel Cat Sugar, from the creator of Hello Kitty!, adding this new character; True Jackson, based on the Nickelodeon TV show; Bugakan Updated Handbook/Strategy Guide, a guide with stats and pictures; and iCarly Reader #1: iDon’t Want to Fight by Leigh Olson, about the adventures of Carly, Sam and Freddie.
SCHOLASTIC/LITTLE SCHOLASTIC
Little Scholastic hits the road with Little Scholastic: Things That Go!, a pull-tab guessing book; Little Scholastic: Zoo, which includes a book, flash cards and puzzle; and Little Scholastic: Welcome Summer by Jill Ackerman, illus. by Nancy Davis, a tactile board book.
SCHOLASTIC NONFICTION
Scholastic Nonfiction puts on safety goggles for 100 Most Disgusting Things on the Planet by Anna Claybourne; Scholastic Reader Level 2: Lola and Tiva by Craig Hatkoff, the true story of a friendship between a girl and a rhino in Kenya; and Girls’ Life Guide to Middle School and Girls’ Life Head-to-Toe Guide to You by Karen Bokram, two advice titles.
SCHOLASTIC/ORCHARD
Orchard Books sounds the alarm with Firehouse! by Mark Teague, a fire truck adventure; Farm by Elisha Cooper, a barnyard picture book; Max Spaniel #2: Doggie Diner by David Catrow, an early reader about food; Princess Pigtoria and the Pea by Pamela Duncan Edwards, illus. by Henry Cole, an alliterative fractured fairy tale; and Lyonesse, Book II: Darksolstice by Sam Llewellyn, a fantasy set in medieval times.
SCHOLASTIC PAPERBACKS
Scholastic Paperbacks tries spring on for size with Change of a Dress by Maya Gold, in which Diana finds a mysterious invitation in a fancy coat brought into her family’s dry-cleaning business; Enemy Rising by Tracey West, new to the Hiro’s Quest series; Book #1 by Mimi McCoy launching the Poison Apple series, in which a girl’s family moves into a haunted house; Daring to Dream by Suzanne Weyn, a Wildwood Stables book about a girl who rescues an abandoned horse and pony; and Pink Princess Rules the School by Alyssa Crowne, featuring an all-girls, all-pink party.
SCHOLASTIC/POINT
Point ushers in the season with Spring Fling by Sabrina James, about a shy girl’s spring break in Florida; Wish by Alexandra Bullen, in which a teen dealing with her twin’s death finds her life changed by magic; Scarlett Fever by Maureen Johnson, a sequel to Suite Scarlett; Possessed by Kate Cann, in which a summer job at a British mansion lands Rayne in the middle of a real-life ghost story; and Airhead #3: Runaway by Meg Cabot, about a girl on the run from her family and from herself.
SCHOLASTIC PRESS
Scholastic Press heats up its cauldron for Green Witch by Alice Hoffman, a sequel to Green Angel; Hot Rod Hamster by Cynthia Lord, illus. by Derek Anderson, about a hamster who creates a winning racecar; My Brother Charlie by Holly Robinson Peete and Ryan Elizabeth Peete, illus. by Shane W. Evans, a story of a family whose oldest son has autism, inspired by the collaborators’ family; Fever Crumb by Philip Reeve, a mystery set in London; and The Dreamer by Pam Muñoz Ryan, illus. by Peter Sís, the tale of Pablo Neruda’s path to becoming an artist.
SEVEN FOOTER KIDS
Seven Footer Kids opens up the gates for More Life-Size Zoo by Teruyuki Komiya, a collection of actual-size photographs of animals.
From Henry in Love by Peter McCarty
SIMON & SCHUSTER
(HarperCollins/Balzer & Bray)
S&S digs into its pockets for The Purple Kangaroo by Michael Ian Black, illus. by Peter Brown, about a monkey that can read minds; Adventure of Meno #4: Uh-Oh Sick! by Tony and Angela DiTerlizzi, further silliness with this space elf; The Lion Who Hugged by Justin Richardson and Peter Parnell, illus. by Amy June Bates, the story of two men and a loveable lion cub; Good Fortune by Noni Carter, a debut novel about a young woman’s journey from slavery to freedom; and Giant Steps by Spike Lee and Tonya Lee, illus. by Sean Qualls, a picture book from the director and his wife.
S&S/ALADDIN
Aladdin has a sweet tooth for Candy Fairies by Helen Perelman, illus. by Erica-Jane Waters, a book about Sugar Valley, where every fairy represents a special candy treat; Dinosaurs Love Underpants by Claire Freedman, illus. by Ben Cort, a wacky celebration of underpants; Doctor Proctor’s Fart Powder by Jo Nesbo, illus. by Tara Chace, starring two adventurous kids and an invention; and Take Two by Julia Devillers and Jennifer Roy, in which identical twins Emma and Payton meet their match babysitting twin boys.
S&S/ATHENEUM
Atheneum minds its p’s and q’s with The Gentleman Bug by Julian Hector, about a ladybug who is a true gentleman; Mom: An Owner’s Manual by Doreen Cronin, illus. by Laura Cornell, a guide on how to handle Mom; Keepers of the School: We the Children by Andrew Clements, first in a series in which kids uncover information that they use to protect their school; Amelia Rules #3: Superheroes by Jimmy Gownley, more comic adventures with Amelia; and So Many Days by Alison McGhee, illus. by Taeeun Yoo, about the choices children make in deciding who they want to be.
S&S/ATHENEUM/JACKSON
Richard Jackson Books pulls no punches with The Complete History of Why I Hate Her by Jennifer Richard Jacobson, about a friendship between two teen girls that becomes unhinged.
S&S/BEACH LANE
Beach Lane Books stands tall with Poetrees by Douglas Florian, a poetry collection; Brownie & Pearl: Brownie and Pearl Step Out by Cynthia Rylant, illus. by Brian Biggs, first in a picture book series about two friends; and LMNO Peas by Keith Baker, in which various peas make their way through the alphabet.
S&S/LIBROS PARA NIÑOS
Libros Para Niños gets quackin’ with Cuaquito (Little Quack) by Lauren Thompson, illus. by Derek Anderson.
S&S/lITTLE SIMON
Little Simon gets tucked in with Good Night, Little Bunny by Jane Yolen, illus. by Sam Williams, and Baby at the Farm by Karen Katz, both touch-and-feel board books; Click, Clack, ABC and Click, Clack, 123 by Doreen Cronin, illus. by Betsy Lewin, two early concept board books;and Where Is Baby’s Belly Button? by Karen Katz, an oversized board book, 10th-anniversary edition.
S&S/LITTLE SIMON INSPIRATIONS
Little Simon Inspirations gets cozy with Daddy Loves His Little Girl by John Carter Cash, illus. by Marc Burckhardt, a tribute to daddies and the love they share with their daughters.
S&S/MCELDERRY
Margaret K. McElderry Books waits at the window with The Fathers Are Coming Home by Margaret Wise Brown, illus. by Stephen Savage, a tribute to fathers who come home to their children every night; No T. Rex in the Library by Toni Buzzeo, illus. by Sachiko Yoshikawa, in which a dino shows a girl that beastly behavior is no good; Uh-Oh! by Alan Katz, illus. by Edward Koren, a humorous poetry collection; and The Exile of Gigi Lane by Adrienne Maria Vrettos, in which a high school queen bee falls from glory.
S&S/SIMON PULSE
Simon Pulse lays down the law with The Six Rules of Maybe by Deb Caletti, a novel about the importance of facing reality and speaking the truth; The Unwritten Rule by Elizabeth Scott, a humorous coming-of-age novel; Strange Fate by L.J. Smith, the conclusion to the Night World series; Gone by Lisa McMann, the final volume in the paranormal trilogy that began with Wake;and Chasing Brooklyn by Lisa Schroeder, a companion to I Heart You, You Haunt Me.
S&S/SIMON SPOTLIGHT
Simon Spotlight sees red with Scarlett & Crimson: A Passion for Fashion by Allyson Black, illus. by Shane L. Johnson, in which Scarlett enters a fashion design contest; Ni Hao, Kai-Lan: Get Dressed with Kai-Lan! by Natalie Shaw, illus. by Kellee Riley, a touch-and-feel book; Olivia Blasts Off by Lauryn Tuchman, illus. by Guy Woleck, which includes play scenes and stickers; Dora the Explorer: So Many Butterflies by Lara Bergen, illus. by Warner McGee; and SpongeBob Soccer Star by David Lewman, illus. by Stephen Reed.
S&S/WISEMAN
Paula Wiseman Books huffs and puffs with Little Cloud and Lady Wind by Toni Morrison, illus. by Slade Morrison, a tale of love and the power of all; Louise the Big Cheese and the La-di-da Shoes by Elise Primavera, illus. by Diane Goode, the second book about Louise; Mama Miti: Wangari Maathai and the Trees of Kenya by Donna Jo Napoli, illus. by Kadir Nelson, a true story about how one person can make a difference; The Wild, Wild Inside: A View from Mommy’s Tummy! by Kate Feiffer, illus. by Laura Huliska-Beith, a humorous look at the world of a baby waiting to be born; and Baby Blessings: A Prayer for the Day You Are Born by Delores Jordan, illus. by James E. Ransome.
SIMPLY READ
Simply Read Books heads for the Big Top with Jason D’Aquino Circus ABC, a look at circus and carnival acts rendered on paper no larger than a matchbox; Owls See Clearly at Night (Lii Yiiboo Myio-Waapamik Iii Swer): A Michif Alphabet (L’alfabet di Michif) by Julie Flett, the sights and sounds of the Michif language and people; Lady Treble and the Seven Notes by Eli Beiklou, an exploration of piano-playing basics; The World Is Your Oyster by Tamara James, illus. by Emma SanCartier, an inspirational book of animal idioms; and Ella’s Umbrellas by Jennifer Lloyd, illus. by Ashley Spires, about a girl who has too many umbrellas and must part with some of them.
SOURCEBOOKS/JABBERWOCKY
Jabberwocky catches some air with Animals Doing Extreme Sports by Kenn Nesbitt, scenarios featuring animals participating in extreme sports; I, York by Shelia P. Moses, a fictionalized account of the Lewis and Clark expedition; Poetry Speaks: Who I Am by Elise Paschen and Dominique Raccah, a book-and-CD anthology of poems for middle-grade readers; and Recognized by Adele Griffin, illus. by Lisa Brown, in which readers visually piece together clues along with protagonist Jennie as she tries to expose her fiance’s killer.
ST. MARTIN’S GRIFFIN
St. Martin’s Griffin watches the clock with Time Pirate by Ted Bell, a follow-up to Nick of Time; Shadowland by Alyson Noël, third in the Immortals series; Infinity by Sherrilyn Kenyon, first title in a YA series from this horror-fantasy writer; and Some Girls Are... by Courtney Summers, a dark tale of high school rivalry.
STERLING
Sterling tunes its guitar for The Peter Yarrow Songbook: Nursery Songs by Peter Yarrow, illus. by Terry Widener, which includes favorites like “Old MacDonald”; The Secret Lives of Princesses by Philippe Lechermeier, illus. by Rébecca Dautremer, a collection that explores the legends of mysterious princesses; EcoMazes by Roxie Munro, in which readers find the right path through a variety of climates and terrains; Reach for the Stars! and Other Advice for Life’s Journey by Serge Bloch, an idiom-laden narrative; and Puss in Boots by John Cech, illus. by Bernhard Oberdieck, which joins the Classic Fairy Tale Collection.
SYLVAN DELL
Sylvan Dell hatches a theory with Newton and Me by Lynne Mayer, illus. by Sherry Rogers, about Newton the dog and his young owner who explore useful gravity, friction and force lessons; Felina Finds a New Home by Loran Wlodarski, illus. by Lew Clayton, about a panther in a shrinking habitat; Little Red Bat by Carole Gerber, illus. by Christina Wald, in which a red tree bat gets ready for winter; What’s the Difference? An Endangered Animal Subtraction Story by Suzanne Slade, illus. by Joan Waites, a rhyming tale that reinforces math skills and introduces endangered species; and Panda’s Earthquake Escape by Phyllis Perry, illus. by Susan Detwiler, a story of earthquakes and survival in China.
TICKTOCK
ticktock Media buckles up with Fasten Your Seatbelt!, a look at the world’s most expensive high-performance cars; Be a Creative Writer, a how-to guide; and The Impressionists, profiles of artists Monet, Cézanne, Renoir and Degas.
TOR/STARSCAPE
Starscape is out of the starting gate with Worldrunners by Caitlin Brennan, a fantasy; and Bone Breakers by David Lubar, more exploits of fifth-grader Nathan Abercrombie, zombie spy.
TOR/TOR TEEN
Tor Teen gets caught up with Web of Titan by Dom Testa, an adventure about the teenage crew of the spaceship Galahad; Jack: Secret Circles by F. Paul Wilson, second in the trilogy about a teenager who grows up to be the urban mercenary Repairman Jack; and Shadow Hunt by Mercedes Lackey and Rosemary Edgehill, set at St. Rhiannon’s, a school established by a half-elf, multimillionaire industrialist to train talented youths.
TEN SPEED/TRICYCLE
Tricycle Press puts on a hardhat for I Am a Backhoe by Anna Grossnickle Hines, in which a boy imagines he is various construction vehicles; Samuel’s Baby by Mark Elkin, illus. by Amy Wummer, about a kindergartener and big-brother-to-be; The Barefooted, Bad-Tempered Baby Brigade by Deborah Diesen, illus. by Tracy Dockray, in which a group of babies make it known that they’ve had enough of cutesy clothes and mashed peas; The Tooth Fairy Meets El Raton Perez by René Colato Laínez, illus. by Tom Lintern, in which the Tooth Fairy and her Latin American counterpart show up under a Mexican-American boy’s pillow; and The Firehouse Light by Janet Nolan, illus. by Marie Lafrance, the true story of a firehouse bulb that has stayed lit for more than 100 years.
TUNDRA
Tundra fires up the GPS for Which Way? by Marthe Jocelyn and Tom Slaughter, an alphabet book; Allison Dare, Little Miss Adventure and Allison Dare and the Heart of the Maiden by J. Torres and Jason Bone, two graphic novels mysteries; The Secret Fiend: The Boy Sherlock Holmes—His Fourth Case by Shane Peacock, another in this line of mysteries; and Cyclist BikeList: The Book for Every Rider by Laura Robinson, illus. by Ramón Pérez, a comprehensive guide and how-to manual.
WALKER
Walker Books for Young Readers sharpens its wooden stakes for My Love Lies Bleeding by Alexandra Harvey, starring a reluctant vampire princess with a kick-butt attitude; and Virus Attack: Hero.com and Dark Hunter: Villain.net by Andy Briggs, new to the action series about downloading super powers.
WILD ROSE PRESS/CLIMBING ROSE
Climbing Rose is itching for spring to arrive with Under My Skin by Judith Graves, in which a girl must control the beast that waits under her skin; Summer Lovin’ by Dara Edmondson and others, a YA collection of summer romance stories; Freaksville by Kitty Keswick, in which four teens become trapped in a haunted theater; Island Sting by Bonnie Doerr, an ecological mystery about saving the endangered Key deer; and The Stillburrow Crush by Linda Kage, in which a shy girl has a crush on the school quarterback.
ZONDERVAN/ZONKERKIDZ
Zonderkidz flies high with K Is for Kite by Kathy-jo Wargin, illus. by Kim Gatto, an appreciation of springtime; Just Like You by Marla Konrad, illus. by Lin Wang, about babies being born across the world; The Sweetest Story Bible by Diane Stortz, illus. by Sheila Bailey, featuring the sweetest things in a girl’s life, including kittens and God’s love; Never Blame the Umpire by Gene Fehler, in which a girl deals with her mother’s illness by writing poetry; and Katy’s New World by Kim Vogel Sawyer, first in a series starring an Old Order Mennonite girl who is allowed to attend public high school.
