Sarah Scarbuck’s Heart Zipper
By Sarah Sue Morbitzer
Little redheaded Sarah Scarbuck struggles to be proud of her badge of honor: an open-heart surgery scar. Even though her parents always remind her of her strength from her superhero scar, sometimes Sarah wonders if she can still do everything that other kids do – like play college volleyball. Written by a former OSU volleyball player, this book is a lovely reminder that kids are not defined or limited by their medical conditions. Ages 3-8.
Slouch
By Christina Wyman
Seventh grader Stevie Crumb does anything but fit in. At nearly five foot ten, it seems that her life is defined by her height. When she pivots from everyone’s plan for her to play basketball and opts for the debate team instead, she learns to find confidence in herself. This story showcases Stevie through her ups and downs, tackling big topics like navigating friends, family, self-esteem and boundaries.
Ages 9-12.
Owl Bat Bat Owl
By Mary-Louise Fitzpatrick
A mother owl and her three little owlets live happily on until a bat family moves in and hangs directly below them. Unhappy with the new living arrangements, the mother owl cautions her babies about befriending the bats. Find out what happens when a storm brings two unlikely families together. A sweet tale about coexistence and cooperation. Ages 3-8.
The Sherlock Society
By James Ponti
The first book in a new middle grade series follows siblings Alex and Zoe Sherlock who decide to use their namesake as inspiration to solve mysteries! Follow along as they set out to find Al Capone’s hidden millions famed to be buried somewhere in Miami. A fast-paced middle grade mystery that keeps kids on the edge of their seats. Ages 8-12.
Play Games With Me
By Kat Chen
In this interactive board book, young readers will engage with Alex and his best friend, a stuffed dinosaur named Rex. Together, they play hide-and-seek, build blocks and cook burgers and noodles. Along the way, the book engages children with questions that help them develop their social skills by practicing conversations. Ages 0-3.