All Ages
The Best Children’s and YA Books of October 2020
October’s best new books are all treats and no tricks (though there’s plenty of mischief afoot — we’re looking at you, Underwear Dragon). Poignant and playful, fascinating and festive, these new releases can’t be missed.
Pre-K
Growing Reader
Brightly Storytime: How to Make Friends with a Ghost
A handbook on caring for spooky specters, our new Brightly Storytime features a sweet and quirky guide to making a friend for life (and beyond)!
Pre-K
Growing Reader
Author Brad Meltzer and Illustrator Christopher Eliopoulos on the Heroes and Lessons We Need Right Now
Author Brad Meltzer and illustrator Christopher Eliopoulos discuss the new books in the Ordinary People Change the World series and what they hope kids learn from them.
Tween
The Importance of Latinx Representation in Children’s Literature
Author Pablo Cartaya examines the importance of Latinx representation in children's books — including within the publishing industry itself — and what it feels like to see yourself within stories.
Pre-K
Growing Reader
Tween
Teen
21 Books That Celebrate Lesser-Known African Americans and Their Contributions to History
These stories help celebrate just a few of the countless individuals who, without fanfare, played key roles in history.
Growing Reader
Tween
16 Great Chapter Books for Third Graders
As third graders develop more independence and the ability to read longer and more complex stories, the world of children’s literature really opens up.
Teen
Surefire YA Scares: 18 of the Best Teen Horror Books
As other book trends come and go, horror is one genre that holds up over time. These scary books for teens are sure to haunt readers in all the right ways.
Grown-Up Reads
Tips & Advice
How to Promote Healthy Social and Emotional Skills During the Pandemic
There are steps caregivers can take at home to help kids through this difficult time. Try out these ideas to promote social and emotional health in your home.
Grown-Up Reads
Tips & Advice
How to Help Teens Choose the Right College
The authors of The College Conversation recommend parents, caregivers, and students align the qualities of a prospective college or university with what matters most to them as individuals — providing a rubric and helpful conversation starters.
All Ages
9 Fun Halloween Ideas for Kids That Go Beyond Trick-or-Treating
You can still have a memorable October 31st this year! Here are some fresh and festive ways to celebrate Halloween while staying safe and healthy.