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

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

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

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

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

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