Picture Books (Ages 3-7)
Jabari Jumps, by Gaia Cornwall — This charming picture book illustrates the bravery it takes to jump into a new summer experience.
Thank You, Neighbor, by Ruth Chan — A celebration of the warm and diverse community of a Brooklyn block, inspired by Chan’s own neighborhood, written during the early days of the NYC lockdown, when neighbors became a lifeline to one another.
This Beach is Loud!, By Samanth Cotterill — Part of Cotterill’s Little Senses series, written for sensitive kids both on and off the autism spectrum, this book offers a salve to anyone for whom the salt, sun and sand of a day at the beach can feel like too much.

Early Reader (ages 4-8)
Gigi and Ojiji, by Melissa Iwai — In this first of a new I Can Read series by talented author/illustrator Iwai, 6-year-old Gigi learns about her identity and heritage when her Ojiji (Japanese grandfather) moves in.
Noodlephant, by Jacob Kramer and K-Fai Steele — A delightful and quirky exploration of social justice and resistance; When the Kangaroos have one set of rules for themselves and another for the other animals, how will Noodlephant and her friends stand up for their rights?

Graphic Novels (Ages 7-12)
Stunt Boy, In the Meantime, by Jason Reynolds and Raul the Third — A dream team of children’s book talents come together in this graphic novel that explores divorce, anxiety and super powers.
Swim Team, by Johnnie Christmas — Bree is a star student, but when she moves to a new swimming-obsessed middle school, she has to face her fear of not knowing how to swim. Inspired by the lack of access to pools black and brown kids often grow up with, author/illustrator Christmas tells a story about the courage it takes—and joy it brings— to learn something new.
Stepping Stones, by Lucy Knisley — Set at the Rhinebeck Farmers Market (Knisley worked there during her childhood weekends) this bittersweet coming of age story explores moving and blended families. There’s also a sequel, Apple Crush.

Middle Grade (Ages 8-12)
A Duet For Home, by Karina Yan Glaser — Told in alternating perspectives, a story of kids experiencing homelessness, filled with music and the power of friendship, by the author of the beloved Vanderbeekers series.
Hardcourt: Stories from 75 Years of the National Basketball Association, by Fred Bowen, Illustrated by James E. Ransome — An informative and rich history of the sport and its heroes, with gorgeous paintings by local illustrator Ransome.
Starfish, by Lisa Fipps — A novel in verse, winner of a Printz Honor, about a middle schooler named Ellie, who’s been terribly bullied about her body by her mother, her siblings and other kids, and her journey (through therapy and friendship and swimming) to loving herself.

Young Adult (YA) (Ages 13 + up)
Inheritance, a Visual Poem, by Elizabeth Acevedo, art by Andrea Pippins — Acevedo is a miraculous poet, author of the National Book Award (and many other award!) winning The Poet X; here she puts all her linguistic and imaginative power into an exploration of Black hair.
Flamer, by Mike Curato (a graphic novel, but for older audience) —A debut graphic novel by award-winning picture book author/illustrator Curato written for a high school audience. A story inspired by his own experiences, about a boy between middle school and high school, grappling with his sexuality, bullying, and self acceptance.
This Poison Heart, by Kalynn Bayron — A vibrant YA fantasy novel set in an old estate in Rhinebeck! When she inherits the house and garden and moves from Brooklyn, Briseis, a magical girl learning to live with her powers, uncovers the mysterious and powerful matriarchy from which she descends. A sequel, This Wicked Fate, was just published, too.

For Parents
How to Raise an Anti-Racist, by Ibram X. Kendi — A new parenting guide by Professor Kendi, the preeminent expert on anti-racism.
Essential Labor: Mothering as Social Change, by Angela Garbes — Part memoir, part cultural history, part call to action, this beautiful hybrid book explores what we’ve learned about care during the pandemic and how we can change the world by valuing care.