Contemporary and Realistic Fiction Books

'Til Death is a high-octane Young Adult mystery thriller that transports readers to the vibrant and glamorous city of Lagos, Nigeria. True-crime enthusiast Lara Oyinlola is thrilled to attend her cousin Dérin’s star-studded wedding, expecting a holiday filled with glitzy parties and fashion. However, the celebration takes a dark turn when anonymous threats emerge, demanding the wedding be canceled. Lara decides to put her sleuthing skills to the test, but she soon discovers that the family’s polished exterior hides a web of dangerous secrets and malicious intent.

This addictive debut is perfect for fans of Holly Jackson and Karen M. McManus who enjoy fast-paced "whodunit" mysteries with high stakes. Author Busayo Matuluko brilliantly weaves Nigerian culture and family dynamics into a suspenseful narrative filled with gossip, drama, and near-death encounters. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in diverse voices, amateur detectives, and stories where every character has something to hide. The blend of humor and tension makes it a compulsive read that is hard to put down.

Highlights:

• A gripping amateur detective mystery set in the heart of Lagos, Nigeria.
• Rich exploration of Nigerian family traditions, culture, and social dynamics.
• Perfect for fans of A Good Girl's Guide to Murder and One of Us Is Lying.
• Features a relatable, true-crime-obsessed protagonist navigating complex family secrets.
• A thrilling mix of glamour, gossip, and high-stakes suspense.

365 Days of Wonder: Mr. Browne's Book of Precepts is a beautiful companion to the beloved bestseller Wonder. This book brings back the wisdom of Mr. Browne, the memorable English teacher who taught Auggie Pullman about the power of "precepts"—words to live by. It features a unique collection of 365 quotes, one for every day of the year, ranging from famous historical figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and Anne Frank to contributions from real-life readers. This is the perfect choice for children who love Wonder and want to dive deeper into the world of Beecher Prep while learning valuable life lessons about kindness and character.

Beyond the daily inspiration, readers get a special look at the lives of their favorite characters through new essays and correspondence from Auggie, Julian, Summer, and Jack Will. It is an ideal book for readers interested in personal growth, empathy, and the "Choose Kind" movement. Whether read daily or all at once, this book serves as a powerful reminder of the goodness in people and the strength of the human heart. It is a great choice for families to read together or for young readers looking for a daily dose of positivity and reflection.

Highlights:

• Features 365 daily precepts to inspire kindness and resilience.
• Includes exclusive new content and letters from the characters of Wonder.
• Perfect for fans of R.J. Palacio's "Choose Kind" movement.
• Encourages daily reflection and emotional intelligence in middle-grade readers.

A Little Princess is a timeless masterpiece that tells the story of Sara Crewe, a young girl with a vivid imagination and a heart of gold. When Sara is sent from India to a London boarding school, she is treated like royalty due to her father's great wealth. However, when tragedy strikes and her fortune vanishes, Sara is forced into a life of servitude. Despite the cruelty of the headmistress, Miss Minchin, Sara maintains her dignity and kindness, proving that being a princess is a matter of character rather than clothes or money.

This classic novel is ideal for readers interested in historical settings and stories of emotional strength. It is perfect for children who love The Secret Garden or Anne of Green Gables, offering a poignant look at Victorian society while celebrating the power of friendship and the human spirit. Parents will appreciate the strong moral compass and the sophisticated vocabulary that makes it a great choice for developing readers.

Highlights:

• A powerful exploration of resilience and inner strength in the face of hardship.
• Beautifully depicts the importance of empathy and treating others with respect.
• Rich historical detail of Victorian London and boarding school life.
• Encourages the use of imagination as a tool for coping with difficult situations.

Gayle Forman, the acclaimed author of If I Stay, returns with a haunting and deeply emotional story that blurs the lines between life and death. When Amber arrives home on her bicycle one spring afternoon, it seems like a normal day—except for the fact that Amber died seven years ago. Her sudden, inexplicable return sends shockwaves through her small community, forcing her sister, her estranged parents, and her former boyfriend to confront the grief they thought they had processed. This poignant novel explores the ripple effects of a single life and the complicated nature of second chances.

Perfect for readers who enjoy high-concept contemporary fiction with a supernatural twist, After Life is an ideal choice for fans of emotional journeys and complex family dynamics. It is a great choice for those who loved The Lovely Bones or Elsewhere, offering a unique perspective on how we remember those we've lost and how we define ourselves in the wake of tragedy. As Amber struggles to understand why she has been brought back, readers are invited to reflect on the lasting impact of love and the mystery of the human spirit.

Highlights:

• A gripping supernatural premise grounded in realistic emotional stakes.
• Explores profound themes of grief, healing, and family reconciliation.
• Written by best-selling author Gayle Forman, known for powerful YA storytelling.
• Perfect for fans of character-driven stories with a touch of mystery.

All American Boys is a powerful and timely novel that tackles the difficult realities of racial profiling and police brutality through the eyes of two high school students. When Rashad, a Black teenager, is brutally beaten by a police officer after a misunderstanding at a local bodega, the event is witnessed by Quinn, a white classmate who has always looked up to the officer. As the community becomes bitterly divided, both boys must grapple with their own beliefs, loyalties, and the harsh truths of the world around them.

This award-winning story is perfect for readers who are interested in social justice and contemporary issues. Written in alternating perspectives by Jason Reynolds and Brendan Kiely, it offers a raw and nuanced look at systemic racism and the courage required to speak out against injustice. It is an ideal choice for parents and educators looking for books that encourage critical thinking and empathy in young adults, making it a great companion to titles like The Hate U Give.

Highlights:

• Told through alternating perspectives for a multi-layered narrative.
• A thought-provoking exploration of racial tension and systemic bias.
• Encourages deep discussions about privilege, justice, and community.
• Recipient of the Coretta Scott King Author Honor and Walter Dean Myers Award.

All the Days Past, All the Days to Come is the powerful and deeply moving conclusion to Mildred D. Taylor’s legendary Logan family saga. Following the journey of Cassie Logan, whom readers first met in the Newbery Medal-winning Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry, this novel spans decades of American history. From the Great Migration to the heights of the Civil Rights Movement, Cassie’s path takes her across the country—from Ohio and California to law school in Boston—before leading her back home to Mississippi to fight for justice and voter registration in the 1960s.

This book is a perfect choice for readers interested in American history, social justice, and multigenerational family stories. It offers a raw and honest look at the racist society of 20th-century America and the courageous individuals who fought for change. Ideal for fans of historical fiction who want to see how personal growth intertwines with historic milestones, this sweeping epic provides a fulfilling end to one of the most important series in young adult literature.

Highlights:

• The final chapter of the beloved Logan family saga spanning over forty years of storytelling.
• A detailed exploration of the Civil Rights Movement and the Great Migration through a personal lens.
• Follows Cassie Logan's evolution from a spirited girl into a determined lawyer and activist.
• Rich, evocative prose that captures the struggle and resilience of the African American experience.

All the Noise at Once by DeAndra Davis is a gripping exploration of the high-pressure world of competitive sports and the internal cacophony that comes with being a teenager on the brink of adulthood. This compelling Young Adult novel dives deep into the life of a talented athlete who must navigate the overwhelming expectations of coaches, family, and themselves. It is a perfect choice for readers who enjoy realistic fiction that doesn't shy away from the complexities of mental health and the physical demands of elite competition.

Ideal for fans of sports-centric dramas, this book captures the visceral feeling of being in the zone while simultaneously feeling the weight of the world. Davis crafts a narrative that is both fast-paced and introspective, making it a great choice for teens who are looking for stories that reflect their own struggles with identity and performance. Whether you are a sports enthusiast or simply love a well-told coming-of-age story, this book offers a resonant look at finding your own voice amidst the noise.

Highlights:

• Authentic portrayal of the pressures faced by modern teen athletes.
• Deeply emotional exploration of sensory overload and mental resilience.
• A fast-paced narrative that balances on-field action with internal growth.

All We Lost Was Everything is a gripping, dark romantic thriller that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. After eighteen-year-old River Santos loses her father and her home in a devastating fire, her life is turned upside down. When an anonymous donor leaves two million dollars in her GoFundMe, River is thrust into a world of suspicion and wealth she never asked for. Working at a local diner to maintain some sense of normalcy, she finds herself drawn to her standoffish coworker, Logan Evans, despite his initial hostility.

As River digs deeper into her family's past and the source of the mysterious donation, she discovers that those she trusted most—including her late father and her absent mother—were keeping dangerous secrets. This novel is perfect for fans of Binding 13 and readers who love high-stakes mysteries blended with intense romance. It is an ideal choice for young adults looking for a story about resilience, betrayal, and the search for truth in the wake of tragedy.

Highlights:

• A "worst sort of lottery" premise involving a mysterious two-million-dollar donation.
• Compelling romantic tension between River and the secretive, standoffish Logan.
• A dark, atmospheric mystery filled with shocking family revelations and twists.
• Explores deep emotional themes of grief, loss, and rebuilding one's identity.

All's Fair in Love and Field Hockey is a high-stakes, heart-pounding queer YA romance that perfectly captures the intensity of high school sports and the vulnerability of first love. Evelyn has spent her entire life training to follow in her mother’s legendary footsteps on the field hockey pitch. With a national title and a crucial scholarship on the line, she is determined to let nothing stand in her way. However, her focus is shattered when she meets Rosa Alvarez, the talented and captivating new recruit for her team's biggest rival. What starts as a fierce rivalry evolves into an unexpected alliance as the two girls strike a deal to help each other improve their game.

Ideal for readers interested in the enemies-to-lovers trope and fans of sports-driven narratives, this novel explores the pressure of family legacies and the courage it takes to forge your own path. Kit Rosewater delivers a masterclass in romantic tension, making this a great choice for teens who love stories about competitive athletes finding balance between their professional ambitions and their personal hearts. It is a must-read for anyone looking for diverse representation in contemporary young adult fiction.

Highlights:

• A compelling rivals-to-lovers romance set in the world of competitive high school sports.
• Explores deep themes of family expectations, identity, and the pressure of athletic scholarships.
• Perfect for fans of Becky Albertalli and Jennifer Dugan.
• Features a strong, queer female protagonist navigating her final varsity season.

Imogene (Impy) has grown up in a world of knights, squires, and fair maidens. Having been homeschooled by her parents who work at the local Renaissance Faire, Impy is finally ready to take on her biggest quest yet: public middle school. She wants to prove she is brave and loyal, just like a real squire, but she soon discovers that the social hierarchy of the sixth grade is far more treacherous than any medieval battleground.

As Impy struggles to fit in with the popular crowd, she finds herself making choices that don't align with her family's values or her own sense of honor. This vibrant graphic novel is a perfect choice for readers who enjoy stories about the awkwardness of growing up and the importance of staying true to oneself. It is an ideal pick for children who love Roller Girl or Raina Telgemeier's Smile, offering a unique blend of humor and heart-wrenching relatability.

Highlights:

• Unique and colorful Renaissance Faire setting that brings the story to life.
• Relatable exploration of middle school social dynamics and the pressure to fit in.
• Strong focus on family bonds and the challenges of navigating new friendships.
• Engaging graphic novel format that appeals to visual learners and reluctant readers.

Mary Addison killed a baby. Allegedly. After spending years in a group home for a crime she may or may not have committed, Mary is now a teenager facing an impossible future. When she discovers she is pregnant, the stakes become higher than ever. To keep her baby and find a path to a real life, she must confront the secrets of her past and prove that the truth is far more complicated than the headlines suggested. This is a haunting, gritty, and deeply emotional psychological thriller that explores the flaws in the justice system and the weight of a labeled past.

Perfect for readers who love dark, thought-provoking mysteries and unreliable narrators, Allegedly is a gripping choice for fans of intense contemporary fiction. It is an ideal pick for those interested in social justice, complex character studies, and stories that challenge your perceptions of right and wrong. Tiffany D. Jackson delivers a powerhouse narrative that will keep readers guessing until the very last page, making it a great choice for book clubs and mature teen readers looking for a story with real-world weight.

Highlights:

• A masterfully crafted unreliable narrator that keeps readers questioning everything.
• A raw and unflinching look at the juvenile justice system and group home life.
• Deeply emotional themes regarding motherhood, trauma, and the search for truth.
• A shocking, high-stakes plot that is impossible to put down.

Lara Jean is having the best senior year a girl could ever hope for. She is head over heels in love with her boyfriend, Peter, and her family life is full of excitement as her father prepares to remarry. However, the looming reality of graduation and college decisions starts to cast a shadow over her perfect summer. As she watches her older sister Margot navigate similar growing pains, Lara Jean must decide what her future looks like and what that means for the people she loves most. This book is perfect for children and teens who love stories about navigating the bittersweet transition from high school to the next chapter of life.

Ideal for readers interested in realistic portrayals of first love and family dynamics, this final installment in the trilogy offers a heartfelt look at the choices we make when our heart and head are at odds. It is a great choice for fans of Jenny Han's previous works or anyone looking for a sweet, emotional contemporary romance that captures the essence of growing up. Parents will appreciate the focus on family bonds and the thoughtful exploration of life-changing decisions.

Highlights:

• A relatable exploration of high school graduation and the anxiety of choosing a college.
• Strong emphasis on the importance of family traditions and the bond between sisters.
• A charming and realistic portrayal of a long-term teenage relationship facing new challenges.
• A satisfying and emotional conclusion to a beloved coming-of-age series.

Always Be My Bibi is a vibrant and witty young adult romantic comedy that transports readers from the suburbs of America to the lush tea gardens of Sylhet, Bangladesh. Bibi Hossain is a relatable, slightly spoiled teenager whose summer plans are upended by her father's strict "no dating until your sister is married" rule. When her perfect older sister, Halima, announces a surprise engagement to a wealthy heir in Bangladesh, Bibi finds herself on a plane, hoping the trip will lead to her own romantic freedom. However, she quickly clashes with the groom’s stuffy younger brother, Sohel, leading to a delightful enemies-to-lovers dynamic as they both plot to stop the wedding.

This charming novel is perfect for fans of Jenny Han and Sandhya Menon who enjoy stories about cultural identity, family expectations, and the chaos of a "Big Fat Bengali Wedding." Priyanka Taslim masterfully balances humor with heartfelt moments, exploring what it means to bridge two different worlds while finding one's own voice. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in multicultural stories, romantic comedies with a travel twist, and books that celebrate South Asian heritage.

Highlights:

• A sparkling "enemies-to-lovers" romance set against a beautiful Bangladeshi backdrop.
• Explores complex family dynamics and the pressure of cultural traditions.
• Perfect for readers who love high-stakes wedding drama and witty banter.
• A rich, immersive look at Bengali culture, food, and celebrations.

American Born Chinese is a groundbreaking graphic novel that masterfully weaves together three seemingly different stories into one powerful narrative. Readers follow Jin Wang, a teenager struggling to fit into a new school where he is the only Chinese-American student; the legendary Monkey King, who seeks to be more than just a monkey; and Chin-Kee, a character who embodies the most hurtful stereotypes. This award-winning book is perfect for children who love graphic novels that balance humor with deep, meaningful messages about belonging and self-acceptance.

Ideal for readers interested in diverse perspectives and modern fables, Gene Luen Yang’s work is a must-read for middle and high schoolers. It offers a unique look at the immigrant experience and the internal struggle to embrace one's heritage. This action-packed story is a great choice for fans of New Kid or The Arrival, providing a visual and emotional journey that culminates in an unforgettable climax.

Highlights:

• Winner of the Michael L. Printz Award and an Eisner Award.
• Explores complex themes of racial identity and cultural stereotypes in an accessible format.
• Features a clever blend of ancient Chinese folklore and modern-day realism.
• Engaging artwork that brings the emotional weight of the story to life.

An Abundance of Katherines is a brilliant and quirky road-trip novel from the acclaimed author of The Fault in Our Stars. The story follows Colin Singleton, a child prodigy who has a very specific type: girls named Katherine. After being dumped by Katherine XIX, Colin sets off on a journey with his best friend, Hassan, to clear his head and prove a mathematical theorem that can predict the outcome of any relationship. This book is a perfect choice for readers who enjoy intellectual humor, complex characters, and stories about finding one's place in the world.

Ideal for fans of contemporary realistic fiction, this novel blends mathematical graphs and anagrams with a heartfelt exploration of friendship and identity. As Colin and Hassan navigate the backroads of America, they encounter unexpected adventures—including a feral hog and a small-town mystery—that challenge Colin to look beyond his formulas. It is a great choice for teenagers who appreciate witty dialogue and are looking for a story that is both funny and deeply moving.

Highlights:

• A unique blend of humor, mathematics, and anagrams
• A heartwarming story of friendship and self-discovery
• Perfect for fans of John Green's witty writing style
• Explores themes of identity and moving on from the past
• Features a relatable and hilarious road-trip dynamic

And They Were Roommates is a vibrant and hilarious contemporary romance that is perfect for fans of Casey McQuiston and Becky Albertalli. The story follows Charlie, who arrives at Valentine Academy for Boys with a plan to keep his identity as a trans student private. However, his world is turned upside down when he is assigned a roommate he never expected: Jasper Grimes, the boy who broke his heart before he transitioned. To make matters more complicated, Jasper doesn't even recognize him!

This unputdownable second-chance romance is ideal for readers interested in stories about self-discovery, identity, and the complexities of young love. As Charlie and Jasper spend long nights writing love letters for their classmates, they find themselves confronting deep feelings and past hurts. It is a great choice for teens looking for authentic LGBTQ+ representation and a roommate mishap trope that is both funny and deeply moving.

Highlights:

• A heartwarming and funny second-chance romance set in a boys' academy.
• Explores important themes of transgender identity, self-acceptance, and growth.
• Perfect for readers who enjoy the roommate mishap and secret identity tropes.
• Features a charming subplot involving writing love letters for fellow students.

Are You Listening? is a hauntingly beautiful graphic novel that blends the raw emotions of real life with the surreal elements of magical realism. When Bea, a runaway, crosses paths with Lou, their chance encounter turns into a transformative road trip across the shifting landscapes of West Texas. As the world around them begins to morph in strange and unsettling ways, the two women find themselves pursued by mysterious men and accompanied by a stray cat that seems to know more than it lets on. This Eisner Award-winning story is a profound exploration of how we navigate the most difficult parts of our pasts.

Ideal for readers interested in deeply emotional narratives, this book tackles heavy subjects like grief, trauma, and sexual assault with grace and sensitivity. It is a perfect choice for fans of Tillie Walden's other works, such as Spinning and On a Sunbeam, or for anyone who loves graphic novels that push the boundaries of the medium. Parents and educators should note that while the story is incredibly rewarding, it deals with mature themes suited for older teens. It is a great choice for readers who appreciate atmospheric art and stories that prioritize character connection and healing.

Highlights:

• Stunning, atmospheric illustrations by Eisner Award winner Tillie Walden.
• A poignant exploration of LGBTQ+ identity and female friendship.
• A unique blend of road-trip adventure and magical realism.
• A powerful story about confronting trauma and finding the strength to heal.

Margaret Simon is almost twelve years old and facing a whirlwind of changes. After moving from the busy streets of New York City to the quiet suburbs of New Jersey, she is anxious to fit in with her new group of friends. When she is invited to join a secret club, she quickly learns that the main topics of conversation are boys, bras, and the anticipation of getting their first periods. As Margaret navigates these milestones, she also grapples with her own unique search for religious identity, frequently turning to a private, personal conversation with God to share her fears, hopes, and questions.

This iconic novel is perfect for children who love realistic fiction that doesn't shy away from the honest, sometimes awkward realities of growing up. It is an ideal for readers interested in coming-of-age stories that explore the complexities of friendship and the search for self. Judy Blume’s timeless voice makes this a great choice for pre-teens who are beginning to ask big questions about their place in the world and their own changing bodies.

Highlights:

• Relatable and honest exploration of puberty and physical changes.
• A thoughtful, nuanced look at religious identity and personal faith.
• Authentic portrayal of female friendships and the desire to fit in.
• Timeless humor and emotional depth that resonates across generations.

Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe is a lyrical and deeply moving coming-of-age story that explores the complex bond between two Mexican-American teenagers in El Paso, Texas. Aristotle "Ari" Mendoza is a quiet, angry loner struggling with his family's secrets, while Dante Quintana is an expressive, intellectual boy who sees the world through a unique lens. When their paths cross at a local swimming pool, an unlikely friendship begins that will challenge their perspectives on life, love, and who they are meant to be.

This Printz Honor book is ideal for readers interested in character-driven narratives and emotional depth. It is perfect for teens who love stories about self-discovery, the nuances of family dynamics, and the transformative power of friendship. Benjamin Alire Sáenz’s poetic prose makes this a great choice for fans of realistic fiction who appreciate a slow-burn, heartfelt journey toward acceptance and identity.

Highlights:

• A tender and honest exploration of male friendship and vulnerability.
• Beautifully written prose that captures the intensity of teenage emotions.
• Strong focus on Mexican-American identity and family relationships.
• A landmark LGBTQ+ young adult novel that resonates with readers of all ages.

Aristotle and Dante Dive into the Waters of the World is the breathtaking sequel to the award-winning Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe. In this deeply moving conclusion to their story, Ari and Dante navigate their senior year of high school while exploring the depths of their love in a world that often feels hostile. Ari, who has spent years being silent and invisible, must find his voice, stand up to bullies, and learn what it truly means to build a life with someone else. This novel is a lyrical exploration of identity, culture, and the courage it takes to be yourself.

Perfect for readers who love emotional contemporary fiction and character-driven stories, this book is an ideal choice for fans of Adam Silvera and Mary H.K. Choi. It beautifully captures the complexities of growing up, the strength of family bonds, and the transformative power of first love. Parents looking for diverse young adult literature that tackles heavy themes with grace and sincerity will find this to be a profound reading experience for their teens.

Highlights:

• A powerful exploration of LGBTQ+ identity and Hispanic-American culture.
• Focuses on emotional growth, communication, and the importance of community.
• Features a poetic and introspective writing style that resonates with mature readers.
• A heartfelt conclusion to a beloved coming-of-age duology.

Auggie & Me is an essential companion to the beloved bestseller Wonder, offering readers a deeper look into the world of August Pullman through the eyes of three different characters. Instead of a direct sequel, this book provides three unique perspectives: Julian, the classroom bully; Christopher, Auggie’s oldest friend; and Charlotte, a classmate. These stories expand on the themes of the original novel, showing that every story has multiple sides and that even those who seem like villains have their own struggles and growth.

This book is perfect for children who love character-driven stories and are interested in exploring complex social dynamics. It is an ideal choice for readers who were moved by Wonder and want to understand the motivations behind the characters' actions. Parents will appreciate how it encourages empathy and the 'choose kind' philosophy, making it a great tool for discussing bullying and friendship. Whether your child is a fan of the original movie or the book, this collection offers a heartbreaking yet hopeful look at the power of compassion.

Highlights:

• Explores three distinct viewpoints that add depth to the Wonder universe.
• Focuses on emotional intelligence, empathy, and the complexity of childhood friendships.
• Perfect for fans of realistic fiction and stories that promote kindness.
• Ideal for classroom discussions or family reading time.

Peppi Torres is just trying to survive her first day at Berrybrook Middle School when she makes a huge mistake. In a moment of panic to avoid being teased, she trips a quiet boy named Jamie and runs away. This "awkward" moment haunts her as she tries to find her place in the school's competitive club scene. Joining the Art Club seems like a great idea, but soon she finds herself caught in a fierce rivalry with the Science Club, where Jamie just happens to be a star member.

Svetlana Chmakova's Awkward is a masterclass in middle school dynamics, capturing the genuine anxiety and humor of pre-teen life. It is perfect for children who love graphic novels like Raina Telgemeier's Smile or Victoria Jamieson's Roller Girl. This story is an ideal choice for readers interested in school stories that balance lighthearted comedy with meaningful lessons about kindness, making amends, and standing up for what is right.

Highlights:

• Relatable exploration of social anxiety and middle school "rules."
• Engaging rivalry between the Art Club and the Science Club.
• Diverse cast of characters with distinct personalities and backgrounds.
• Beautifully illustrated panels that bring the school setting to life.

Babymouse is back and facing her biggest challenge yet: responsibility! In Babymouse: Bad Babysitter, our favorite pink-loving mouse decides she is finally old enough to earn some extra cash by babysitting. However, as Babymouse quickly learns, looking after a younger mouse is much harder than it looks in her wild daydreams. This installment in the award-winning graphic novel series by Jennifer L. Holm captures the hilarious struggles of growing up and trying to prove yourself to the world.

This book is perfect for children who love funny, fast-paced stories with relatable characters. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in graphic novels that blend everyday life with imaginative fantasy sequences. Parents will appreciate how the story explores themes of accountability and perseverance through humor and engaging artwork. It is a great choice for fans of series like Narwhal and Jelly or Dog Man who are looking for a slightly more grounded but equally entertaining reading experience.

Highlights:

• Engaging graphic novel format that builds reading confidence in young children.
• Relatable storyline about the challenges of first jobs and personal responsibility.
• Features Babymouse's signature imaginative daydreams and witty humor.
• Perfect for fans of the series or as a standalone introduction to the character.

Babymouse is back and this time she has her sights set on a sugary prize! In Babymouse: Cupcake Tycoon, the school library is holding a fundraiser, and our favorite sassy mouse is determined to sell more cupcakes than anyone else. With dreams of winning the grand prize, Babymouse dives headfirst into the world of business, but she soon realizes that being a tycoon is much harder than it looks. Between mishaps and stiff competition, will she be able to come out on top?

This installment in the beloved graphic novel series is perfect for children who love funny, fast-paced stories with relatable school-day drama. Ideal for readers interested in entrepreneurship or those who enjoy a mix of reality and wild imagination, this book captures the spirit of perseverance with a side of frosting. It is a great choice for transitioning readers who are moving from picture books to more complex narratives but still appreciate visual storytelling.

Highlights:

• Engaging graphic novel format that builds reading confidence.
• Relatable themes of school fundraisers and healthy competition.
• Hilarious imagination sequences that Babymouse fans adore.
• Encourages perseverance and goal-setting in a fun way.