Astra Young Readers News

Books for Kids Ideal for Black History Month (updated 1/2026)

Celebrate Black achievement, innovation, and history during Black History Month! Our collection of picture books bring alive the stories... Read More

Celebrate ABFYR’s Stars of 2025 and Get Ready for 2026!

2025 was an ASTRA-nomical year for Astra Books for Young Readers – and 2026 promises to have the same shine! These “starred review” books 2025 and early 2026 titles received glowing reviews. So many of our titles received award nods in 2025 as well. Here’s to celebrating our star-studded and highly awarded reads. ★ “MacGregor... Read More

Astra Books for Young Readers Holiday Gift Guide

From budding history buffs to fans of graphic novels, Astra Books for Young Readers is here to help you find the perfect gift for all the young readers in your life this holiday season For the young reader… Who really wants a dog! Fascinated with politics and current events With an imaginative mind and loves... Read More

Good Housekeeping Best Books Picks from ABFYR!

Believe it or not, the new year is just around the corner. It’s time to celebrate the very best of 2025– including all our favorite books!   The Good Housekeeping 2025 Kids’ Book Awards honors books that kids and their families loved reading this year– the cream of the crop, the most engaging and entertaining titles.... Read More

Fantastic Picks for Foodie Kids

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

A note from Hannah Chung, the creator of BREAD DAYS

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

Books for Latinx + Hispanic Heritage Month

National Hispanic American Heritage Month runs from September 15-October 15th. Join the celebration and share these books with young readers. 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