Expert booksellers and librarians share their top picks for young readers. Check out what our experts are reading this summer!
Barnacle Bay
(Little Habitats, Book 1)
written and illustrated by Jana Curll
Greystone Kids, 2025
IL: Ages 6-9 RL: Grades 2-3
In Jana Crull’s buoyant debut graphic novel, a crabby crustacean shows newcomer Larva around the bay. Six short chapters provide a delightful deep dive into marine ecosystems. The duo drop by the kelp bed, keep their distance from stinging sea anemones, and “shell-ebrate” the important role oysters, clams, mussels, and scallops play in keeping the ocean clean. The witty wordplay and puns flow fast: “Pardon the interruption. We are experiencing tentacle difficulties.” The underwater creatures populating the cartoon panels have pinprick eyes and plenty of personality. Scientific facts (reviewed by experts) are swimmingly incorporated throughout the conversational banter. Sea-riously fun and informative, this Little Habitats series opener makes a big splash.
Recommended by Linda Ludke, Collections Management Librarian, London Public Library
***
You Started It
Written by Jackie Khalilieh
Tundra Books, 2025
IL: Ages 12 and up RL: Grades 7-8
When Jamie's longtime boyfriend comes home from summer camp and promptly breaks up with her, she is shocked and devastated. Then she discovers that he is now dating popular girl Olivia Chen, and this cements her resolve to win him back. Conveniently, she and newcomer Axel Dahini strike a bargain which involves the two of them pretending to date each other to make Ben jealous. But as Jamie and Axel get to know one another, she also begins to learn more about herself and to see things differently... in all aspects of her life.
Jackie Khalilieh has created another tender, feel-good teen romance that manages to also explore weightier topics including messy and complex family relationships, living with anxiety, and racism. The characters are multi-faceted and engaging and Jamie's growth is believable.
Recommended by Lisa Doucet, Manager, Woozles Children's Bookstore