This interview was originally published in a Brodart “Tell Me More” e-blast. What excited you about illustrating Marie’s Magic Eggs? There was a lot to be excited about! The eggs themselves are so beautiful, and I instantly saw how they could translate into very exciting illustrations to tell Marie’s story. I love learning about history,... 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

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

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

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

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