Louie Lauer

Oct 4, 2024 | slj.com | Erica Lyons |Louie Lauer |Caroline Kusin Pritchard

Gr 1-4–Over a dish of malida, sweetened rice adorned with fruits and flowers, Nani Penkar shares with her granddaughter the origin story of India’s Bene Israel community. Spanning over 2,000 years, the book recounts the harrowing journey of Jewish refugees fleeing the rule of Antiochus. After a violent storm, seven men and seven women wash ashore in India, where they find refuge among locals who, though religiously different, share some similar customs and have respect for diversity.

Sep 26, 2024 | slj.com | Louie Lauer

by (text) & illus. by Megan Roy . Sept. 2024. 32p. Tr $17.95. ISBN 9781958803943. COPY ISBN PreS-Gr 1–Designed with caregivers and educators in mind, this title offers a straightforward approach to screen-free activities for young children. Clear, easy-to-follow instructions directly address readers, encouraging them to engage in simple physical exercises, such as touching toes, hopping like a bunny, and taking giant steps.

Aug 16, 2024 | slj.com | Amanda Deibert |Louie Lauer

Gr 2-3–Marvel’s iconic duo from the “Guardians of the Galaxy” franchise test their storytelling skills in this high-stakes comic adventure. After narrowly escaping menacing blue monsters, Groot and Rocket find themselves trapped in an eerie forest, where their only chance of survival hinges on spinning a terrifying tale. With the fear of impending doom, Rocket tells the story of a Zombie dinner party gone wrong. It’s not enough to win their freedom.

May 10, 2024 | slj.com | Caroline Huntoon |Louie Lauer

. May 2024. 224p. Tr $17.99. ISBN 9781250897466. COPY ISBN Gr 6 Up–Linus, who recently came out as trans, hopes to quietly start his school year at a new middle school. However, a chance collision with fellow eighth grader Etta on the way to his first class makes that unlikely. Etta, still reeling from the sudden ghosting by her best friend, Marigold, is looking for answers to explain her friend’s sudden distance.