Books for the children in your life

As you contemplate your holiday shopping list, Youth Services coordinator Sharon Anderson has compiled a list of books to purchase for the children in your life. If you want to look at them first, they’re all available at the library.

Picture books:

• “Cinnamon” by Neil Gaiman

This Newbery medal-winning author tells the story of an Indian princess who will not speak. Full of wit and whimsy, this one is perfect for reading aloud.

• “Stay: A Girl, a Dog, and a Bucket List” by Kate Klise

Missouri author Kate Klise’s heart-warming story of the ageless love between a child and a pet.

• “XO, Ox: A Love Story” by Adam Rex

When Ox falls in love with a snooty gazelle, he will stop at nothing to win her love. Although she rudely responds to all of his letters, he will not be deterred!

Nonfiction:

• “How to Be a Scientist” by Steve Mould (age 7-9)

A good choice for piquing curiosity and inspiring exploration. Includes hands-on experiments and the principles behind them.

• “She Persisted: 13 American Women Who Changed the World” by Chelsea Clinton (age 4-8)

Learn about inspiring historical figures such as Nellie Bly, Maria Tallchief, and Virginia Apgar — women who persisted and stood up for their rights and their dreams.

• “Grover Cleveland, Again!: A Treasury of American Presidents” by Ken Burns (age 9-12)

Acclaimed documentarian Ken Burns offers up a lively exploration of the varied and fascinating characters who have led our nation.

Chapter Books (ages 8-12):

• “Ghost” by Jason Reynolds (and the sequel: “Patina”)

Reynolds’ Track series features a fast and fiery group of kids recruited for an elite middle-school track team. Together, they have the raw talent necessary to give them a shot at the Junior Olympics — if they can find a way to work as a team.

• “The Someday Birds” by Sally J. Pla

Charlie’s perfectly ordinary life is turned upside down when his father is injured in Afghanistan. When his father is moved from California to Virginia for treatment, Charlie and his family move across the country to be near him. Equal parts zany road trip story and coming-of-age story for an autistic boy who doesn’t understand the world, this book is a tribute to the resiliency of family in the midst of crisis.

• “Wishtree” by Katherine Applegate

For as long as Red can remember, people have written wishes on pieces of cloth and tied them to his limbs on the first day of May. The Wishtree has heard the stories of generations and has gained a wisdom that he yearns to share with humans. Echoing with messages of diversity, inclusion, kindness and love, Applegate’s latest book may be an important conversation starter.