Get your young reader cooking on National Kids Take Over the Kitchen Day! On September 13th, kids all over the US celebrate the importance and fun of food. Whether it’s an exciting after-school activity or a way to learn about their culture, experiences in the kitchen help teach kids the magic of a good meal.... Read More

Dear Reader, Bread Days is a personal story. My dad was an avid baker. What began as ahobby soon became his weekly ritual. He named his sourdough starter Paoloand cared for him like a best friend. Bread Day was a full experience for ourfamily — from watching the dough rise and the sweet smell filling... Read More

Coming in March 2026, ¡Viva Valenzuela! is a vibrant new baseball book for readers ages 7–10 that shines a spotlight on Latino sports history. Written by award-winning baseball reporter Nathalie Alonso and brought to life with bold, expressive artwork by Pura Belpré Honoree John Parra, this picture book tells the story of a sensational rookie... Read More

September signals new beginnings: a new school year, new teachers, and new friends just waiting to be made. But September also brings a perfect opportunity to celebrate those we know and love– especially our grandparents, who have a special holiday all their own. This year, Grandparents Day falls on Sunday, September 7. One great way... Read More

Trouble getting your little one to sleep at the end of a long day? These books are the perfect addition to your pre-bedtime routine! From relaxing stories that will lull little ones to sleep to action-packed adventures sure to fuel their dreams, however your young reader likes to go to bed, Astra has just the... Read More

As backpacks are zipped and lunchboxes packed, the start of a new school year brings excitement—and sometimes a few butterflies. Books can be a comforting companion through these transitions, offering humor, heart, and a gentle nudge of courage. Here are 10 standout picture books from Astra Books for Young Readers that are perfect for kicking off the school year... Read More

Enjoy quality time reading with your kids this Father’s Day! Enjoy these books featuring fathers, grandfathers, and father-figures during this special holiday. In Mexican American comedian Jesús Trejo’s debut picture book, a little boy makes a big, funny mistake and learns the value of resources like time and water—both of which have a magic all... Read More

June is Pride Month! Show your pride with these books about LGBTQ+ characters and stories. A gay teenager in 1990s Wyoming must contend with the violent loss of a loved one in this historical YA novel that draws from the tragic murder of Matthew Shepard in 1998. 2025 Kansas NEA Reading Circle List ★ “Keen... Read More

Looking for a meaningful way to spend Mother’s Day? Take some time to read with your kids! Here are our picks for the perfect books to share this holiday. For Mom & Kids Who Love to Cook For anyone who’s tried to whip up something special for someone they love, and stumbled—here is the book... Read More

Learn more about Jewish-American history and heritage this May! From activism to poetry to sports and more, these titles feature Jewish characters and themes that will inspire your young reader. Meet unique and outspoken Bella Abzug, the iconic Jewish politician and activist who fought for justice and women’s rights, in this compelling picture book biography. 2025... Read More