2025 Staff Picks: Beloved Backlist

“When I first read When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead, I was grabbed by the mystery, the lyrical writing, and then then that surprising twist. It holds up even today and I’m jealous of young readers just coming to the story of Miranda and the strange letters that start it all.”

—Adrienne Waintraub, VP & Director, School and Library Marketing

“The Notebook Keeper is a warm, heartfelt story that shows how small acts of kindness can make a big difference during hard times. It’s the kind of book that stays with you—gentle, hopeful, and beautifully told, and the fact that it’s based on true events make it even more resonant!”

—Katie Halata, Director, Library Marketing

“A true classic that stands the test of time, The Phantom Tollbooth is a glorious love letter to words and curiosity, an ode to learning and discovery, and a reminder that there are wonders all around us, if we only pay attention. It’s smart, funny, surprising, thought-provoking, action-packed, heartwarming, and silly in all the most important ways—everything you could ever ask for in a middle grade adventure.”

—Katie Dutton, Manager, School and Library Digital Marketing

“Remember is a poetic, uplifting book that encourages you to pause and appreciate all the little connections that make life meaningful. Its warm, gentle language feels like a comforting reminder to notice the world around you, and the illustrations are breathtaking!”

—Jasmine Ferrufino, Associate, School and Library Marketing

“Nic Stone’s writing is both powerful and relatable and addresses important social issues with sensitivity and depth. Her ability to blend compelling narratives with thought-provoking themes makes her books not only engaging but also impactful, making them excellent choices for readers seeing meaningful and transformative stories.”

—Michelle Campbell, Assistant Director, School Marketing

“The City of Ember represents everything that sparked my love for reading. This electric dystopian captivated me on my first read (at 12 years old!) and continues to give me the same escapist thrill more than a decade later. The City of Ember is an adventure at every read and continues to be my go-to recommendation for any young reader craving an action-forward read!”

—Taylor Belgrade, Marketing Assistant

“Holes by Louis Sachar is such a fun, clever story—you’re pulled in right away by the mystery and end up falling in love with the characters. It’s full of humor, unexpected twists, and moments that pull on your heartstrings: the kind of book that feels exciting, warm, and totally unforgettable.”

—Natalie Capogrossi, Senior Manager, School Marketing

“Harriet the Spy is a timeless coming-of-age classic that kids will love, featuring Harriet M. Welsch, a young spy whose notebook of secrets fall into the wrong hands, leading to a journey of repairing friendships and understanding the power of words.”

—Erica Trotta, Manager, Library Marketing