An inspiring graphic novel by acclaimed middle-grade author Claribel A. Ortega which celebrates the beauty of naturally curly hair is on the way to library shelves.
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Frizzy by Claribel A. Ortega, illustrated by Rose Bousamra
Marlene loves three things: books, her cool Tía Ruby and hanging out with her best friend Camila. But according to her mother, Paola, the only thing she needs to focus on is school and "growing up." That means straightening her hair every weekend so she could have "presentable," "good” hair.
But Marlene hates being in the salon and doesn't understand why her curls are not considered pretty by those around her. With a few hiccups, a dash of embarrassment, and the much-needed help of Camila and Tia Ruby, she slowly starts a journey to learn to appreciate and proudly wear her curly hair.
What’s New This Month
New
Wimpy Kid, Warriors, and
Keeper of the Lost Cities books are incoming! Also some gorgeous picture books are on the way, including a story of beauty and belonging between mother and child by Tasha Spillett-Sumner, a rumination on friendship by Julie Fogliano, a playdate at an accessible greenhouse by JaNay Brown-Wood, a fresh new fade by Shauntay Grant, and the latest
Food Group book by Jory John and Pete Oswald. Also on the way are new graphic novels by Gale Galligan, Chad Sell, Christina Soontornvat, and Ben Clanton, along with novels from authors like Kate Alice Marshall, Tae Keller, and more.
What We’re Reading
Here are some quotes from library staff about their latest recommended picks.
The Golden Hour by Niki Smith: “Have you ever read a graphic novel about 4H, and photography, and a school shooting? Neither had I, and I was so glad I did. What a beautiful story.”
A Boy Like You by Frank Murphy: “The opposite of toxic masculinity. Yay for books encouraging boys to be full humans!”
The Drawing Book for Kids: 365 Daily Things to Draw, Step by Step: “Simple (unlike most kids' drawing books) with lots of images and symbols kids want to draw. SO GOOD!”
Luli and the Language of Tea by Andrea Wang: “A wholesome reminder about overcoming difficulties in communication, and a cute way to recognize similarities in languages despite enormous distances between their places of origin.”
Class Act by Jerry Craft: “I really enjoyed this companion to 2019’s
New Kid! I loved getting a chance to learn more about some of the characters, and tough topics of privilege and prejudice are always balanced with a healthy dose of humor and heart.”
Pahua and the Soul Stealer by Lori M. Lee: “Only story like this I've seen anywhere—*LOVED* it.”
For more lists of recommended reads from the book world and beyond: