Recommended Books for the New Session 2022-2023

This delightful picture book is perfect for the start of a new school year. It focuses on citizenship, kindness, and how to ask questions rather than argue. The central theme revolves around being a "purple person"someone who finds common ground and works hard to make the world a better place. It is an excellent choice for social-emotional learning in the classroom.

Written by the youngest inaugural poet in U.S. history, this lyrical picture book is a call to action for young readers. With illustrations by Loren Long, it tells the story of a young girl who leads a cast of characters on a musical journey. They learn that they have the power to make changes in themselves, their communities, and the world. It is an inspiring read for boosting confidence in the new session.

This touching story centers on the special bond between father and son, as seen through a mother's eyes. Starting with a bench in a park where the boys play, the story evolves into a celebration of love across different families and backgrounds. It is a gentle, heartwarming story that resonates well with themes of family belonging as children return to the school environment.

Winner of the Newbery Medal, this sci-fi novel is a must-read for the 2022-2023 session. It follows Petra Pea, a storyteller who boards a spaceship to escape Earth's destruction. Centuries later, she wakes up as the only person who remembers Earth's stories. It deals with themes of heritage, memory, and the power of storytelling to preserve humanity amidst a sterile, homogenized future.

From the author of "The One and Only Ivan," this book explores environmental themes and the balance of nature. Willodeen loves animals, especially the hated "screechers" that the villagers want to eradicate. As she fights to save them, she discovers that nature is interconnected in ways the village does not understand. It is a compelling choice for science and ecology discussions in the new curriculum.

Inspired by Jules Vernes "20,000 Leagues Under the Sea," this modern adaptation follows Ana Dakkar, a freshman at a high-tech marine academy. During her weekend sea trials, her brother and the faculty are attacked, leaving Ana and her friends to unravel the mysteries of their lineage. It is an action-packed adventure that pays homage to classic literature while keeping the pacing fast for modern readers.

Set in the Ojibwe community, this thriller follows Daunis, a young woman who witnesses a shocking murder. She agrees to go undercover for the FBI, but her loyalties are tested as she uncovers a web of secrets. The book provides deep insight into Indigenous culture and the struggle for identity. It is a gripping, sophisticated read suitable for high school literature circles.

A blend of science fiction and Chinese mythology, this book takes place in a world where humanity fights monsters using giant mechas called Chrysalises. Zetian offers herself up as a concubine-pilot to exact revenge on the male pilot responsible for her sister's death. She discovers she is a lethal force known as an Iron Widow. It deals with themes of patriarchal oppression and rage.

Often described as "Gossip Girl" meets "Get Out," this thriller is set at an elite private school. When two Black students, Devon and Chiamaka, are targeted by an anonymous bully known as Aces, they must work together to uncover the culprit. The book is fast-paced and tackles systemic racism and microaggressions in a high-stakes environment.

While technically an adult/business book, "Atomic Habits" is incredibly valuable for high schoolers and college students starting a new session. It offers a proven framework for improving every day. Clear explains how small, incremental changes in our daily routines can lead to remarkable results over time. It is the quintessential guide for academic discipline and personal growth.

Organizational psychologist Adam Grant examines the critical art of rethinking: learning to question your own opinions and open your mind to new perspectives. For students entering a new session, this book encourages intellectual humility and flexibility, essential traits for learning and adapting in a rapidly changing world.

Though styled as a collection of simple drawings and aphorisms, this book offers profound wisdom on kindness, hope, and friendship. It serves as a gentle reminder for students of all ages to be compassionate toward themselves and others. It is an excellent coffee-table book for classrooms and libraries to provide moments of reflection during a busy year.