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

This essay was originally published by School Library Journal’s Teen Librarian Toolbox blog. Rumors circulated that the president was suffering from a serious medical condition. The White House claimed that he was perfectly fine and any reports to the contrary were partisan attacks. After a well-sourced newspaper article pointed to a cover-up, the president’s allies... Read More

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

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

In my house, we’re loyal Jeopardy! watchers. Every evening at 7 p.m., you’ll find my family glued to the TV, testing our trivia skills. I have to admit—I usually do pretty well. My secret? I read a lot of nonfiction, especially the incredible titles published by our own Calkins Creek and Astra Young Readers imprints. Just the... Read More

Award-winning author Gail Jarrow is known for bringing history to vivid life with gripping nonfiction narratives, and the books in her Medical Fiascoes series are a perfect example. This riveting series of books for young readers ages 10 and up uncover the strange, fascinating, and often terrifying moments in medical history when science, politics, and human error... Read More

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

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

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