Astra Books for Young Readers News

A Q&A with Nathalie Alonso and John Parra, Creators of ¡VIVA VALENZUELA!

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

Celebrate Grandparents Day

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

Go Back to School with Astra: 10 Picture Books to Inspire, Comfort, and Delight

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

Moving Middle School Poetry

7 Moving Middle Grade/Young Adult Poetry Picks

This collection is perfect for more sophisticated young readers who love to dive deeply into beautiful, touching, sometimes painful, sometimes joyful stories. Wordsong, an imprint of Astra Books for Young Readers, has picture books for kids at every age & every stage! Read More

DIYs to Celebrate Summerween!

Ready for the spooky season? So are we! Celebrate Summerween with these fun Do-It-Yourself activities inspired by our favorite characters. Carve watermelons, make flower crowns, and craft a gorgeous mermaid costume for this summer. Use these step-by-step guides to have some summer fun and prepare for one of our favorite holidays! Meowl-O-Ween: How To Carve... Read More

Get Patriotic this 4th of July! 12 Books about the Revolutionary War

Make some time to celebrate Independence Day this year with a good read about well-known—and not too well-known—Revolutionary War figures who fought and sacrificed to grow our country. Read More

Our Recommended Books for Juneteenth

Now an official federal holiday, Juneteenth observes the effective end of slavery in America. Commemorate the occasion by reading these books that celebrate the amazing stories and accomplishments of Black Americans from our history. Read More

Books to Share with Dad This Father’s Day

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

Celebrate Pride Month with These LGBTQ+ Titles

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

Got a Graduate? Give Them a Book!

Whether a student is receiving a diploma for completing preschool or grad school, their graduation day is sure to be a joyful celebration... Read More