For many parts of the country, February brings cold winds, gray skies, and the desire to hide indoors until spring. If you’re one of the many wishing for warmer temperatures and the return of that yellow orb in the sky, at least pick up a few of these new February releases to keep you company on those dreary days.
The Lost Heir (Wings of Fire Graphic Novel #2), by Tui Sutherland and Mike Holmes
This bestselling series has returned in graphic novel form, and it’s just as amazing as the original. Years ago, when she was just a dragon egg, Tsunami and four other dragonets were captured and held hostage. Known as the dragonets of destiny, they were the chosen ones, selected to finally end a war between the various dragon tribes. But the dragonets had other plans. Having now escaped, they are headed to the SeaWing Kingdom, where Tsunami will be reunited with her mother, Queen Coral, and begin her new destiny as heir to the throne. Shortly after their arrival, however, Tsunami discovers that this may not be the safe haven she imagined. Instead, Tsunami finds herself the target of evil, her young life at risk once again.
Astrophysics for Young People in a Hurry, by Neil deGrasse Tyson with Gregory Mone
Astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson certainly knows a little about physics, and now he’s sharing it with the next generation of scientists. Modeled after his bestseller Astrophysics for People in a Hurry, this version for younger readers tackles questions about space science through the use of personal anecdotes, color photographs, and graphics designed to both educate and inspire. While not light reading, it’s a text meant to introduce the science-minded (and even not so science-minded) to one man’s passion for the mysteries of the sky.
I Am…A Journal for Extraordinary Kids, by Brad Meltzer and Chris Eliopoulos
Fans of the Ordinary People Change the World series will recognize Chris Eliopoulos’s distinctive artwork. This journal gently prompts young readers to consider their own gifts and contributions to the world around them. After all, Albert Einstein, Amelia Earhart, and Rosa Parks were once kids, too. Whether it’s a passion for science, medicine, animals, art, sports, or anything in between, readers are encouraged to embrace their gifts and change the world in the most (extra)ordinary of ways.
To Night Owl from Dogfish, by Holly Goldberg Sloan and Meg Wolitzer
Avery Bloom and Bett Devlin are about as different as two girls can get. Avery loves books, is afraid of everything, and lives in New York. Bett is social, passionate about animals, and lives in California. But when their two dads fall in love, Avery and Bett find themselves thrust together, sent to sleep away camp in an effort by their dads to create some bonding for the potential future sisters. Initially, the girls join forces to put a stop to their dads’ efforts, but ultimately find themselves relying on each other in ways neither had expected.
New Kid, by Jerry Craft
Seventh grader Jordan Banks dreams of going to art school. But his parents have other plans and enroll him in the ultra-fancy Riverdale Academy Day School, a private school known for its focus on academics. Not only does Jordan feel like the social outcast, making the trip across town from his less-than-prestigious Washington Heights neighborhood, but he’s one of only a handful of kids of color in his entire grade. Now, he doesn’t fit in at home…and he doesn’t fit in at school. Where exactly does Jordan belong? And how can he remain loyal to his art?
Hacks for Minecrafters: Combat Edition: The Unofficial Guide to Tips and Tricks That Other Guides Won’t Teach You, by Megan Miller
If you have a school-age child at home, you’re probably familiar with the world of Minecraft. This is not by any means the first book to offer insider secrets, but it has been updated for the newest Minecraft version, World of Color. Whether it’s acquiring new enchanted weaponry, or how to fight off zombies, Minecraft enthusiasts will delight in these cheats and tricks that will allow them to become Minecraft masters.
Official Handbook (Feisty Pets), by Scholastic
If Minecraft isn’t your thing, how about pets with attitude? Feisty Pets may look cute and cuddly, but give them a squeeze and they transform completely. With names like Princess Pottymouth, Vicky Vicious, and Sir Growls-A-Lot, these pets are not to be messed with. Now fans can learn the pets’ likes and dislikes, facts, and statistics, in order be better armed against these cuddly-turned-crazy friends.
Farm and Feast: Gather Together with Friends and Food, by Emily Osborn and Monika Roe
American Girl fans (and even those not as familiar with the brand) will enjoy learning and creating with this farm-to-table guide. Children may be familiar with going to the grocery store with a shopping list, but where does that food really come from? This book explores farm fresh ingredients, while guiding children in creating their own farm creations to add to their imaginative play.
Narwhal’s Otter Friend (Narwhal and Jelly Series #4), by Ben Clanton
Narwhal and Jelly return with a new friendship story. This time, the best friends are confronted with a common problem: what happens when a third friend comes on the scene? Narwhal is thrilled to have a new friend in Otty, but Jelly is less enthusiastic. Otty seems to take up a lot of Narwhal’s attention. What happens if Otty takes Jelly’s place as Narwhal’s best friend? As the three spend more time together, Jelly realizes that Otty not as threatening as he first thought, and that they have more commonalities than differences.
Song for a Whale, by Lynne Kelly
12-year-old Iris loves technology, and she’s good at it. Unfortunately, not many people realize this. You see, Iris is the only deaf person at her school, a trait that defines the way others see her. Nobody quite realizes Iris’ capabilities. When Iris learns about Blue 55, a whale unable to communicate with other whales through song, she immediately identifies with him. What if she could figure out a way she could create a song for him so that they would both feel less alone? But how do you sing a song to a whale 3000 miles away? If anyone can figure it out, Iris can.
What books are keeping you company this month?
The post February’s Best New Books for Young Readers appeared first on The B&N Kids Blog.