The Magic Library of Waterfall Way

An orphaned tween seeking a place to belong embarks on a daunting adventure in this cozy fantasy from Abe (Tessa Miyata Is So Unlucky). In the Alterran Empire, social standing is determined by citizens’ ranking on a scale of Remarkableness; Extraordinarily Remarkables live in luxury, while Slightly Remarkables wear hand-me-downs. Eleven-year-old Lyra Hunt, described with tan skin, is an exceptional case: she’s the only resident classified as Unremarkable, leaving her feeling isolated and overlooked. As her birthday approaches, Lyra is running out of time to join a guild, but being accepted into one of the organizations dedicated to myriad professions (Pine Cone Collectors, Button Collectors, Warriors) would secure her permanent shelter within the kingdom and help her evade exile. Rejections pile up until she stumbles upon the elusive Guild of Scholars, where she discovers a wary but welcoming community of book lovers and knowledge seekers, along with a magical library. To gain acceptance, however, Lyra must restore the library’s lost magic crystal, which amplifies guild members’ magic and recently vanished in a fire. With help from new allies and a mischievous furry companion, Lyra sets out on a quest boasting dragons, hidden histories, and an ancient society with secrets of its own. Whimsical worldbuilding and an endearing protagonist distinguish a winning adventure that celebrates curiosity and personal exploration. Ages 8–11. Agent: Sarah Landis, Sterling Lord Literistic. (Aug.)