• New Award Books Are Out!

    The 2025 Illinois Reader's Choice Books are here and available for checkout!

    There are 60 titles across the three lists and we have plenty of copies of each. Check out the lists below:

    Find Monarch Books in the Catalog. 

    Find Bluestem Books in the Catalog. 

    Find Caudill Books in the Catalog. 

    Also coming soon, is a year long Beanstack reading challenge for grades K-8! Depending on your grade, you can sign up for the Monarch, Bluestem, or Caudill challenge and read your way to some prizes! Check Beanstack on April 1st for more information!

       Youth Services Librarian Claire 

  • Early Chapter Books!

    There is a new section in our collection! At the start of Juvenile Fiction, we now have an Early Chapter Book section! Early Chapter Books are books that have a low page count, shorter chapters, and lots of illustrations. They make perfect books for readers who have mastered Beginning Readers and are ready to move on to longer chapter books. You may recognize some popular books here - Mercy Watson, Princess in Black, and Heidi and Henry Heckelbeck. There are plenty of new titles to discover here, so take a look and find your new favorite book!

    Looking for some personalized selections? Fill out a Browsing Bundle Request Form and get a bag full of books picked just for you! 

       Youth Services Librarian Claire 

  • Top Circulating Titles of 2023

    Happy New Year! We read a ton of great books in 2023 - most of these titles are on the Illinois Readers' Choice Award Lists (Monarchs, Bluestems, and Caudills). Here are the top titles that were read at the Barrington Area Library!

     

    Picture Book: 

    Chez Bob by Bob Shea

    Beginning Reader: 

    Happy Pig Day! by Mo Willems

    Juvenile Fiction: 

    Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Getaway by Jeff Kinney

     

    Juvenile Graphic Novel: 

    Katie the Catsitter by Colleen A. F. Venable

    Teen Fiction: 

    Alone by Megan E. Freeman 

    Teen Graphic Novel: 

    City of Dragons. The Awakening Storm by Jaimal Yogis

    Nonfiction: 

    Fallout: spies, superbombs, and the ultimate Cold War showdown by Steve Sheinkin

    eBook: 

    Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix by J.K. Rowling

    What books are you going to read in 2024? You can sign up for Winter Reading here! Read 250 minutes and earn a free book!

       Youth Services Librarian Claire 

  • New Award Books Have Arrived!

    Did somebody say new books? The new 2024 Illinois Reader's Choice Book Awards are here! Find the newly awarded books in the Youth Services Department. We have multiple copies of the Monarch, Bluestem, and Caudill Award Winners. These are all great options for summer reading!

    Find Monarch Books in the catalog.

    Find Bluestem Books in the catalog.

    Find Caudill books in the catalog.

    Happy Reading!

        Youth Services Librarian Claire 

  • Wellness Wonders: Mental Health Awareness Month

    Mental health is important all year round, but May is the month where we bring awareness to this important topic! Mental health is just like physical health – you need to do things to take care of your mind so that it works at its best. This will help you do all the things you want to do like coming to the library to play and read!

    To learn more about mental health, check out our Wellness Wonders: Mental Health Awareness Month Books mobile display. The display includes Board Books, Picture Books, Juvenile Non-Fiction, Juvenile Fiction, and Teen Fiction books. The mobile display will be up all month long located in the YS department near the beginning of the non-fiction shelves.

    Want to participate in mental health focused programming? Check out Little Kids, Big Feelings and Meditation Story Time or check out our Early Learning Mindfulness Kits.

       Youth Services Assistant Librarian Jessica

     

  • Grow Your Mindset

    Grow Your Mindset

    Putting yourself out there or trying something new can be a scary process.  The What-If’s creep in and may even prevent you from trying something new.  However, if more focus is placed on the journey and learning rather than the outcome, it can open the door to so many possibilities. 

    Here are some wonderful books that emphasize the saying; “Progress Over Perfection.”

     

     Looking for more recommendations?  Fill out our form to get an individualized list of reads sent to your email! 

       Youth Services Assistant Librarian Erin 

     

  • Summer Reads for Teens

    Need a book to read during summer vacation? Here are some filled with summer adventures!

    Best Friends, Bikinis, and other Summer Catastrophes by Kristi Wientge

    Twelve-year-old Alex plans to spend her summer building a treehouse with her best friend Will, but her summer seems ruined when Will experiences his first crush. Now Alex is wrangling up summer jobs and keeping tabs on the new girl, hoping that in completing their treehouse, she can keep from losing her best friend and her summer from falling apart.

    Best Friends, Bikinis, and other Summer Catastrophes by Kristi Wientge.

    The forget-me-not summer by Leila Howland

    When their parents, a screenwriter and a film editor, go off on summer projects, Marigold, twelve, Zinnia, eleven, and Lily, five, must visit their Great Aunt Sunny in Cape Cod, where they learn much about themselves and each other and grow closer than ever.

    The forget-me-not summer by Leila Howland

    The Mending Summer by Ali Standish

    Georgia can almost feel her heart cracking a little more every day. While Mama is struggling to keep the family afloat, Georgia is sent to stay with her mysterious great aunt in her old country house. Soon, lonely Georgia meets Angela, a girl with secrets of her own, and they discover a magical lake. At first, the lake offers a thrilling escape, but as things grow worse at home, a troubled boy appears at the lake and the magic threatens to spiral out of control.

    The Mending Summer by Ali Standish.

    How to Become A Planet by Nicole Melleby

    After an entire summer trying to figure out how to go back to being the person she was before her depression and anxiety diagnosis, twelve-year-old Pluto finds out--with the help of the Hayden Planetarium hotline, a new tutor, and a new friend--that there is no old or new Pluto, there's just Pluto, growing up.

    How to Become A Planet by Nicole Melleby

    Saltwater Secrets by Cindy Callaghan

    Half-sisters Stella and Josie love spending summers together at the beach, but things are harder this year, especially when new business owners exploit the natural habitat, endangering marine life and people, as well.

    Saltwater Secrets by Cindy Callaghan

    A Summer of Sundays by Lindsay Eland

    Almost-twelve-year-old Sunday Fowler is a middle-of-the-middle child, and it's the absolute worst. But standing out is hard work when you have to help repair an old library and make sure your siblings don't steal your new best friend—or ruin all your plans. Then Sunday finds something in the library's basement that might make her so famous no one will forget her name ever again.

    A Summer of Sundays by Lindsay Eland

    Sunkissed by Jenny McLachlan

    Kat can't believe her family is sending her to Sweden for the summer. Without her friends Bea and Betty, or even a phone signal, can Kat make it on her own? In a land of saunas and summer sun, Kat soon realizes she has nowhere to hide. It's time to let go of what she thinks people want her to be, so she can embrace who she really is.

    Sunkissed by Jenny McLachlan

    A Swirl of Ocean by Melissa Sarno

    A decade after her caregiver finds her alone on the beach, twelve-year-old Summer begins wondering where she came from, until a frightening experience in the ocean triggers dreams of a strangely familiar girl in another reality.

    A Swirl of Ocean by Melissa Sarno

    Welcome to Dog Beach by Lisa Greenwald

    Twelve-year-old Remy loves the traditions of Sea Gate, the island where her family spends every summer vacation, but after her grandmother and a special dog die, and her relationship with best friends Bennett and Micayla changes, Remy takes comfort in the company of the island's Dog Beach--where she hatches a plan to bring her friends closer and recapture the Sea Gate magic.

    Welcome to Dog Beach by Lisa Greenwald

     Have you signed up for the Summer Reading Program yet? Do so here!

       Youth Services Assistant Librarian Claire 

  • Read About the Women Who Changed the World

    Celebrate Women’s History Month by reading about the women who made their mark on the world!

    Herstory. 50 women and girls who shook up the world.

    ''Throughout history, girls have often been discussed in terms of what they couldn’t or shouldn’t do. Not anymore. It’s time for a celebration of not only what girls can do, but the remarkable things women have already accomplished, even when others tried to stop them.''

    Herstory. 50 women and girls who shook up the world

    The girl who rode a shark and other stories of daring women

    ''Now more than ever, the world is recognizing how strong women and girls are. How strong? In the early 1920s, Inuit expeditioner Ada Blackjack survived for two years as a castaway on an uninhabited island in the Arctic Ocean before she was finally rescued. And she’s just one example.''

    The girl who rode a shark and other stories of daring women

    Anthology of Amazing Women. Trailblazers who dared to be different.

    ''This beautifully illustrated collection tells the awe-inspiring stories of 50 women who have pushed the boundaries of human excellence and endeavor.''

    Anthology of Amazing Women trailblazers who dared to be different

    Latinitas. Celebrating 40 big dreamers.

    ''Discover how 40 influential Latinas became the women we celebrate today! In this collection of short biographies from all over Latin America and across the United States, Juliet Menéndez explores the first small steps that set the Latinitas off on their journeys. With gorgeous, hand-painted illustrations, Menéndez shines a spotlight on the power of childhood dreams.''

    Latinitas celebrating 40 big dreamers

    Little Leaders. Bold women in black history.

    ''Whether they were putting pen to paper, soaring through the air or speaking up for the rights of others, the women profiled in these pages were all taking a stand against a world that didn't always accept them. The leaders in this book may be little, but they all did something big and amazing, inspiring generations to come.''

    Little Leaders bold women in black history

    What Would She Do? 25 true stories of trailblazing rebel women.

    ''From historic world leaders to brilliant scientists, artists, and modern-day pioneers, What Would She Do? shares twenty-five incredible women's stories that educate and empower. Learn about the remarkable achievements and attitudes of feminist trailblazers.''

    What Would She Do? 25 true stories of trailblazing rebel women

    She did it! 21 women who changed the way we think.

    ''Discover new heroes among these 21 women who challenged the status quo, championed others, and made their voices heard. From groundbreaking artists and social justice advocates to scientific pioneers and business innovators, a strong thread of trailblazing women runs through American history.''

    She did it! 21 women who changed the way we think

    Brave. Black. First. 50+ African American women who changed the world.

    ''Published in partnership with curators from the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, this illustrated biography compilation captures the iconic moments of fifty African American women whose heroism and bravery rewrote the American story for the better. They were fearless. They were bold. They were game changers.''

    Brave. Black. First. 50+ African American women who changed the world

    Her Epic Adventure. 25 Daring women who inspire a life less ordinary.

    ''Thrilling true stories of female adventurers who never stopped believing in themselves and achieved the unimaginable!''

    Her Epic Adventure 25 Daring women who inspire a life less ordinary

    Need a library card? No worries - you can apply online and get your card number without leaving your house.

       Youth Services Assistant Librarian Claire 

  • 14 Books to Read With Those You Love on Valentines Day

    This Valentine's Day, check out some books that show your little ones how much you love them!

    Looking for something fun to do with your young one? Here’sa list of upcoming events at the library.

     

       Youth Services Assistant Librarian Claire 

     

  • The Great Backyard Bird Count

    TheGreat Backyard Bird Count is an annual event where bird enthusiasts around the world come together to watch/listen for and count as many birds as they can. The event lasts for four days, and anyone can participate! According to the Great Backyard Bird Count website, all you have to do to participate is:

    1. Decide where you’d like to watch birds. 
    2. Watch birds for at least 15 minutes, over the four days of the bird count, between February 18 and February 21, 2022.
    3. Count all the birds you see or hear within the time you’ve planned your bird watch. 

    For more information on how to participate, check outthe Great Backyard Bird Count’s website. 

    Here at the Barrington Area Library, we have a plentiful amount of books to help guide you on your birdwatching journey, but here are a few that we think might be especially helpful.

     

    We’d love to hear about your experience with the Great Backyard Bird Count! Email us at youthservices@balibrary.org with any photos or tales from your birding adventures!

     

     

     

     

     

     

        Youth Services Specialist Stefanie 

  • Time Loop Books for Teens and Tweens

    Ever wondered what reliving the same day over and over again would be like? In celebration of Groundhog Day, here are some books where the characters are stuck in a time loop!

    11 Birthdays by Wendy Mass

    It's Amanda's 11th birthday and she is super excited---after all, 11 is so different from 10. But from the start, everything goes wrong. When Amanda turns in for the night, glad to have her birthday behind her, she wakes up happy for a new day. Or is it? Her birthday seems to be repeating itself. Grades 4-7.

    11 Birthdays by Wendy Mass

    Stanislaw Lem's The Seventh Voyage by Jon J. Muth

    Ijon Tichy is caught in a time loop. Alone in his broken spaceship-with no one there to help him-he could remain trapped in space indefinitely! But soon something strange begins to happen Tichy's past and future selves appear... Grades 3-7.

    Stanislaw Lem's The Seventh Voyage by Jon J. Muth

    Kingston and the Echoes of Magic by Moses Rucker

    New problems are on the rise as blackouts blanket the city, and Kingston begins to have a feeling of déjà vu, as if he’s lived this same day before—and he has. Echo City is living up to its name, caught in a repeating time loop. Maestro, his father’s old rival, has found a way to overwrite reality with an alternate timeline where he rules over all. It will be up to Kingston, Too Tall, and V to find a way to enter the Realm and travel back through time to stop him. Book 2 in Series. Grades 5-7.

    Kingston and the Echoes of Magic by Moses Rucker

    Neverworld Wake by Marisha Pessl

    After a night out, Beatrice Hartley and her friends narrowly avoid a collision with a car on a deserted road. Or so they believe. Soon time backbends. Beatrice and her friends are forced to repeat that dreadful day so many times they lose count. This nightmare, this nothingness . . . this is the Neverworld Wake. Grades 7-9.

    Neverworld Wake by Marisha Pessl

    It's the First Day of School... Forever! by R.L. Stine

    On the first day of school, Artie falls out of his bed and hits his head. He tells his mom he's dizzy, and she says ''You’re just worried about your first day of school.'' On the second day of school, Artie falls out of bed and hits his head. He tells his mom he's dizzy, and she says ''You’re just worried about your first day of school.'' Today is just like the day before. Can Artie find a way to change it, before it’s the first day of school...forever? Grades 4-7.

    It's the First Day of School... Forever! by R.L. Stine

    23 Minutes by Vivian Vande Velde

    One day, Zoe Mahar ducks into Spencerport Savings and Loan simply to get out of the rain—and witnesses a bank robbery gone wrong. The good news is that Zoe has a unique ability she can play back time and repeat events. But it's not an unlimited deal—she can only jump 23 minutes, and her first playback creates an even more disastrous outcome. Zoe has only ten tries to get it right before this particular 23 minutes becomes irreversible. Grades 7-9.

    23 Minutes by Vivian Vande Velde

    Odessa Again by Dana Reinhardt

    Fourth grader Odessa Green-Light lives with her mom and her toad of a little brother, Oliver. Her dad is getting remarried, which makes no sense to Odessa. One day she gets mad and stomps across the attic floor. Then she feels as if she is falling and lands . . . on the attic floor. Turns out that Odessa has gone back in time a whole day! With this new power she can fix all sorts of things. Her biggest goal - reunite Mom and Dad. Grades 3-7.

    Odessa Again by Dana Reinhardt

    The Retake by Jen Calonita

    Zoe knows that the only thing harder than middle school is losing a best friend. She and Laura used to do everything together, but lately things have been weird between them. But then a magical app downloads on her phone...and suddenly Zoe can travel back in time to moments where her and Laura started drifting apart. It's a chance for Zoe to mend their friendship. Until she realizes that second chances don't always go as planned. Grades 3-7.

    The Retake by Jen Calonita

    The Neverending Story by Michael Ende

    When Bastian happens upon an old book called The Neverending Story, he's swept into the magical world of Fantastica--so much that he finds he has actually become a character in the story! And when he realizes that this mysteriously enchanted world is in great danger, he also discovers that he is the one chosen to save it. But it's hard to save a world where time keeps repeating. Can Bastian overcome the barrier between reality and his imagination in order to save Fantastica? Grades 5-7.

    The Neverending Story by Michael Ende

    Tired of reading the same books again and again? Fill outthis form to get some new suggestions from our librarians!

     

     

       Youth Services Assistant Librarian Claire 

  • 3 Books for Fans of The One and Only Ivan

    If you lovedThe One and Only Ivanby Katherine Applegate,try one of these unique animal stories next.

     

    Audrey (Cow): An Oral Account of a Most Daring Escape, Based More or Less on a True Story

    by Dan Bar-el

    “Audrey is a cow with poetry in her blood, who yearns for the greener pastures beyond Bittersweet Farms. But when Roy the horse tells her that she is headed for the slaughter house, Audrey knows that she must leave her home and friends sooner than she ever imagined. With the help of animals and humans alike, Audrey attempts to escape the farm - and certain death. Cleverly written as an oral account, this unique illustrated tale of an animal on the run, uses over 30 narrative voices, including six humans, four cows, three sheep, two sheep dogs, one pig and a very silly rooster.” 

    Audrey is sweet, the cast of characters is hilarious, and overall this makes a perfectly delightful read for an animal lover.

     
     

    The Simple Art of Flying

    by Cory Leonardo

    “Born in a dismal room in a pet store, Alastair the African grey parrot dreams of escape to bluer skies. He'd like nothing more than to fly away to a palm tree with his beloved sister, Aggie. But when Aggie is purchased by twelve-year-old Fritz, and Alastair is adopted by elderly dance-enthusiast and pie-baker Albertina Plopky, the future looks ready to crash-land. In-between anxiously plucking his feathers, eating a few books, and finding his own poetic voice, Alastair plots his way to a family reunion. But soon he's forced to choose between the life he's always dreamed of and admitting the truth: that sometimes, the bravest adventure is in letting go.” 

    I loved the attitude on this snarky parrot! The story itself is touching and surprising.

     

     
     

    Gorilla Dawn 

    by Gill Lewis

    “Deep in the heart of the Congo, a baby gorilla is captured by a group of rebel soldiers. Imara and Bobo are also prisoners in the rebels' camp. When they learn that the gorilla will be sold into captivity, they swear to return it to the wild before it's too late. But the consequences of getting caught are too terrible to think about. Will the bond between the gorilla and the children give them the courage they need to escape?” 

    This chapter book is intense, gripping, and eye-opening. A moving read for young conservationists.

     

    Let us shop the shelves for you! Fill out a Browsing Bundle request, and a Librarian will bag up a small collection books or movies we think you'll love. 

    Youth Services Librarian Allison 

  • Top Circulating Titles of 2021

    Lots of great books were checked out to our community in 2021. The top checkouts tended to be titles from the Illinois Readers Choice Awards (Caudills, Bluestems, and Monarchs). We also saw some serious circulation from the always popular Mo Willems and Jeff Kinney. Here are the most frequently checked-out books from the Youth Services department in 2021:

    Picture Book:

     

    SumoKittyby David Biedrzycki

     

     

    Beginning Reader:

     

    Happy Pig Day!By Mo Willems

     

    Juvenile Chapter Book: it was a tie!

     

    Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Meltdownby Jeff Kinney 
     

    Inklingby Kenneth Oppel

     

    Teen Fiction:

    Other Words for Homeby Jasmine Warga

     

    Graphic Novel:

     

    Be Preparedby Vera Brosgol

     

    Nonfiction:

     

     Torpedoed: The True Story of the World War II Sinking of “The Children’s Ship”by Deborah Heiligman

      

    Audiobook:

     

    Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stoneby J. K. Rowling

     

    e-Book:

     

    Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Deep Endby Jeff Kinney

     

    Want more reading lists delivered straight to your inbox? Sign up for our e-newsletters to discover the newest and best books for kids.

    Youth Services Librarian Allison 

  • Wintry Books for Your Break

    Winter break is here-HURRAY! Celebrate by cuddling up with one of these excellent winter reads, a nice cup of hot cocoa, and a cozy blanket.

     

    Looking for more recommendations? Fill out our form to get a custom list of reads or a Book Bundle for pickup.

     

     

        Youth Services Specialist Stefanie 

  • Our Favorite Books from 2021

    Here are a handful of our favorite books published in 2021 for young readers. Check out the full list for more great recommendations!

    MaryJo recommends...

    Kingston and the Magician's Lost and Found by Rucker Moses and Theo Gangi 

    Alyssa recommends...

    The Smashed Man of Dread End by J. W. Ocker

    Noe Wiley is excited to move to a new house after a sleepwalking incident that ended in her accidentally hurting her friend. But soon she’s confronted with a group of hostile girls that live on her new street and a note that says only, “Don’t go into the basement of your house at night.” Curious, she does exactly what the girls told her not to do and ventures into her basement after dark to find a flat, grinning man oozing out of a crack in the wall. Now she’ll need the girls’ help if she wants to rid her house—and the world—of this monster, but can they figure out who he is and where he comes from in time to save their families and each other? This book was so wonderfully creepy and fast-paced that I read it in a single day. You may want to read this tale of friendship and monsters with the light on. And don’t go into the basement at night!

    Allison recommends...

    Just Like That! by Gary D. Schmidt

     

    Stefanie recommends...

    Little Witch Hazel: A Year in the Forest by Phoebe Wahl

    Travel through the four seasons with Little Witch Hazel, a little witch who is all about helping the inhabitants of her forest community. Her adventures include rescuing an orphaned egg, rafting with her friends, encountering a haunted tree stump, and tending to her many patients in the midst of a blizzard. Heartwarming and cozy, Little Witch Hazel is the perfect choice for fans of books like Frog and Toad and Mister Putter and Tabby.

     See even more of our 2021 favorites!

     

    Subscribe to our monthly e-newsletters to see the newest and best books for kids. 

  • Delicious Reads - Books for Foodies

    These books have all the ingredients to be one of your next great reads.

    Aventurine is a dragon without a passion to dedicate her life to and her parents won’t even let her out of their cave to go find one. But, Aventurine takes matters into her own hands and heads out to prove herself. A fantasy adventure filled with dragons and best of all chocolate!

    dragon-with-a-chocolate-heartA7FD5CCA-CF9C-78E5-A395-E266D63A166F.jpg

    Tate, Rae, Caroline, and Oliver face off on a reality TV cooking competition. What kind of challenges will the judges throw their way and most importantly what delicious items will they whip up?

    lights-camera-cook76856541-91E9-19C5-37D8-D021C5516572.jpg

    Tristan moves to small town Petersville, which is majorly disappointing after living in the best city ever - New York. However, the promise of “life-changing” chocolate cream doughnuts might make things a little better, if only the general store still made them. Perhaps Tristan can use his cooking expertise to bring the doughnuts back!

    doughnut-fixE9F9614A-6218-4A55-6B1C-E1891DDEE93B.jpg

    Cici moves away from her beloved grandmother in Taiwan to Seattle. Hoping to win enough money to bring her grandmother over for a visit, she enters a cooking competition. Her Taiwanese inspired dishes may be just the recipe for success. A graphic novel worth devouring.

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    Fizzy’s parents are divorced and both seem to be moving on to new lives while leaving her feeling like she doesn’t quite belong. Cooking is her passion and something she knows she is good at. A Southern Living cook-off competition is just the right distraction to help Fizzy feel like more than a leftover.

    the-thing-about-leftoversC6F3A39B-0529-74A1-E38F-A2911A8F36C3.jpg

    Peony is a fantastic baker. However, her baking skills are earth bound and may not translate when she is drafted to fill a vacant spot on the extra-terrestrial reality TV cooking competition Space Battle Lunchtime. Follow Peony as she navigates cut throat competitors and ingredients she has never even heard of.

    space-battle-lunchtimeEF59C3C1-0C94-6A79-126D-91FA954C0BEE.jpg

    Hungry for a personalized buffet of books? Try aBrowsing Bundle! 

      Youth Services Librarian Demitra 

  • 5 Spine-Chilling Books to Share Around the Campfire

    Looking for the perfect creepy stories to share around the campfire (or by candlelight) this weekend? We've got you covered! This selection of stories ranges from very light scares to truly terrifying tales, and everything in between.

     

    The Doll in the Hall and Other Scary Stories by Max Brallier, illustrated by Letizia Rubegni

    This third book in the Mister Shivers series is perfect for those ready to dip their toes into some scary content. These five standalone stories include a little something for everyone, including a creepy doll, an eerily itchy cast, a vengeful tooth fairy, and so much more. 

    Recommended for Grades K-2

     

    Scary Stories to Read When It's Dark

     Scary Stories to Read When It’s Dark is a classic collection of thrills and chills featuring your favorite amphibians, Frog and Toad, and along with a handful of other popular folktales and retellings. 

    Recommended for Grades K-3

     

    A World Full of Spooky Stories: 50 Tales to Make Your Spine Tingle by Angela McAllister, illustrated by Madalina Andronic

    An anthology of tales from around the world, divided into themes such as strangers at the door, home of the spirits, enchanted places, and frozen lands. 

    Recommended for Grades K-4

     

    Hide and Don't Seek: And Other Very Scary Stories by Anica Mrose Rissi

     In this contemporary collection of 20 hair-raising stories, you’ll be sure to find the right fit for your campfire storytelling. From a murder of murderous crows, to an unconventional summer camp, and an even more unconventional teacher, and so much more, these stories are guaranteed to have you peeking over your shoulders for days.

    Recommended for Grades 4-6

     

    Through the Woods by Emily Carroll

     This graphic novel is truly terrifying and not for the faint of heart, perfect for fans of the classic book,Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark.

    Recommended for Grades 6+

     

    Looking for more recommendations? Fill out our form to get a custom list of reads or a Book Bundle for pickup.

     

     

        Youth Services Specialist Stefanie 

  • Books About the Refugee Experience

    Thousands of refugees have entered America in the wake of the Afghanistan takeover by Taliban forces, with500 people likely to settle in Illinois. These big numbers and far-off places and situations are hard to understand (often, for adults as well as children!) without the empathy-building stories behind the statistics and news headlines. These books for children of all ages help bring refugee experiences - from all over the world - to light and life.

    World in Between Based on a True Refugee Story by Kenan Trebinčević and Susan Shapiro. Recommend

    worldinbetween461BDB3B-F2B6-02A8-D836-85F09FC0D4C7.jpg

    Other Words for Home by Jasmine Warga. Recommended for ages 9-13.

    otherwordsforhome6B5DCEF2-B6D0-6694-979B-0F0F0E0A1226.jpg

    The Thing I'm Most Afraid Of by Kristin Levine. Recommended for ages 10-14.

    thethingimmostafraidof8935699F-F530-25BE-350D-8D23DD855630.jpg

    The Red Pencil by Andrea Davis Pinkney, illustrated by Shane W. Evans. Recommended for ages 9-14.

    theredpencil391977EB-BF97-B995-9BA2-4395A7B5D372.jpg

    Boy, Everywhere by A. M. Dassu. Recommended for ages 10-14.

    boyeverywhere00B48939-06C9-4DB3-75E7-54C2B20BFCE0.jpg

    When Stars Are Scattered by Victoria Jamieson and Omar Mohamed, color by Iman Geddy. Recommended for

    whenstarsarescatteredD599C057-FCB3-14BD-718D-0045D2161F3A.jpg

    A Crack in the Sea by H.M. Bouwman. Recommended for ages 10-14.

    acrackintheseaAC7293EF-639C-C473-0221-B4604179D5C0.jpg

    A Land of Permanent Goodbyes by Atia Abawi. Recommended for ages 12-18.

    alandofpermanentgoodbyes3E34D034-F974-1CB5-B526-AE72DBADC9E9.jpg

    Brother's Keeper by Julie Lee. Recommended for ages 8-13.

    brotherskeeper2E55B2B2-4AA8-F1A6-7A34-2C46C6A851F9.jpg

    Crossing the Farak River by Michelle Aung Thin. Recommended for ages 11-16.

    crossingthefarakriverA5FBCDCB-2601-BB72-A627-FFCD054BC688.jpg

    Everything Sad Is Untrue (A True Story) by Daniel Nayeri. Recommended for ages 10-14.

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    Flying Over Water by N.H. Senzai and Shannon Hitchcock. Recommended for ages 9-13.

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    I Lived on Butterfly Hill by Marjorie Agosín, illustrated by Lee White. Recommended for ages 10-14

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    The Boy at the Back of the Class by Onjali Q. Raúf, illustrated by Pippa Curnick. Recommended for

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    Manuelito A Graphic Novel by Elisa Amado, illustrated by Abraham Urias. Recommended for ages 12-16.

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    Nowhere Boy by Katherine Marsh. Recommended for ages 10-14.

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    Refugee by Alan Gratz. Recommended for ages 10-13.

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    Samira Surfs by Rukhsanna Guidroz, illustrations by Fahmida Azim. Recommended for ages 9-13.

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    Shooting Kabul by N.H. Senzai. Recommended for ages 9-13.

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    The Night Diary by Veera Hiranandani. Recommended for ages 8-12.

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    The Only Road by Alexandra Diaz. Recommended for ages 9-13.

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    The Stray and the Strangers by Steven Heighton, illustrations by Melissa Iwai. Recommended for ages

    thestrayandthestrangers37BE7A2F-EFF4-00C1-552C-F4B1C859E307.jpg

    A Story Like the Wind by Gill Lewis, illustrated by Jo Weaver. Recommended for ages 9-13.

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    Yara's Spring by Jamal Saeed & Sharon E. McKay. Recommended for ages 10-14.

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    Youth Services Librarian Allison 

     

  • The Top 5 Buzzworthy Books This Fall

    Autumn is such a stellar season here in the Barrington area. The days get cooler and crisper, creatively decorated scarecrows abound, and pumpkin suddenly is flavoring EVERYTHING. But the best thing about fall? The books! Here are five chapter books for kids we know you can’t wait to get your hands on.

     

    Willodeen

    by Katherine Applegate

    From the oh-so-good creative voice behind Newbery Medal winning The One and Only Ivan as well as the Endling trilogy and our 2019 Book of the Summer Wishtree comes this brand new fantasy adventure about one girl and her quest to help the most unlovable creatures in her world. Yes please!

     
       
     

     

     

    The Beatryce Prophecy

    by Kate DiCamillo, illustrated by Sophie Blackall 

    A story set in medieval times about Beatryce, who just may be the girl prophesied to end the rule of the king, so must hide herself in the dangerous woods, away from those in power who want her dead. With sure-to-be stellar writing from the author of Newbery winnerThe Tale of Despereauxand artwork from the creator of Caldecott winnerHello Lighthouse,everybody is going to want to see this book.
       
     

     

    Daughter of the Deep

    by Rick Riordan

    A modern reimagining of10,000 Leagues Under the Sea? Hmm, I’m not sure about that… Wait, it’s by Rick Riordan, ofPercy Jacksonfame? Sign me up! 

     
       
     

    Kaleidoscope

    by Brian Selznick

    Selznick’s books are absolutely dazzling, combining stunning pencil artwork with amazing and ambitious stories. This newest book is a collection of stories and images that touch on themes of discovery and loss. Sounds like it will be a great book for grown-ups and kids alike.
       
     

     

    Amos McGee Misses the Bus

    by Philip C. Stead, illustrated by Erin E. Stead

    Ten years ago, the Stead duo won the Caldecott Medal for their oh-so-charming story ofA Sick Day for Amos McGee.Now, the beloved zookeeper and his animal friends are finally getting a sequel.

     

     

    What books are you excited to see this fall?

     

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    Youth Services Librarian Allison

  • Unconventional School Stories

    During the COVID pandemic, the start of a school year has felt a little different. Whether your kids are going to class wearing masks and unable to hug friends, or moved completely to homeschooling, school time has required adaptations from all of us. Find some inspiration in these stories of different school situations, across time and around the world. 

     

    This Is My Home, This Is My School 

    by Jonathan Bean

    For young Jonathan and his sisters, Mom is the teacher and a whole lot more, and Dad is the best substitute any kid could want. From math, science, and field trips to recess, show-and-tell, and art, a school day with this intrepid, inventive family will seem both completely familiar and totally unique.
       

     

    Nile Crossing

    by Katy Beebe & Sally Wern Comport

    A boy growing up in Ancient Egypt begins his first day of scribe training by traveling the Nile to his school. A twist on the first-day-of-school story that shows readers that feeling nervous is universal, even for kids growing up in an ancient civilization.
       

     

    Steamboat School: Inspired By a True Story

    by Deborah Hopkinson & Ron Husband 

    In 1847 St. Louis, Missouri, when a new law against educating African Americans forces Reverend John to close his school, he finds an ingenious solution to the new state law by moving his school to a steamboat in the Mississippi River.
       

     

    The Oldest Student: How Mary Walker Learned to Read

    by Rita Lorraine Hubbard & Oge Mora

    In 1848, Mary Walker was born into slavery. At age 15, she was freed, and by age 20, she was married and had her first child. By age 68, she had worked numerous jobs, including cooking, cleaning, babysitting, and selling sandwiches to raise money for her church. And at 116, she learned to read. An inspirational story of a woman whose long life and determination proved that you're never too old to learn.

     
       

     

    Off to Class: Incredible and Unusual Schools Around the World

    by Susan Hughes 

    Education is not readily available for kids everywhere, and many communities are strapped for the resources that would make it easier for kids to go to school. In short, it's not always easy getting kids off to class -- but people around the world are finding creative ways to do it. In this book, travel to India, Burkina Faso, Brazil, Uganda, and a dozen other countries, to visit some of these incredible schools, and, through personal interviews conducted by author Susan Hughes, meet the students who attend them too. 
       

     

    Grandmother School

    by Rina Singh & Ellen Rooney

    Every morning, a young girl walks her grandmother to the Aajibaichi Shala, the school that was built for the grandmothers in her village to have a place to learn to read and write. A moving story about the power of education.

     
       


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    Youth Services Librarian Allison