Children's Books

In the new picture book “The Blue House I Loved” Minnesota author Kao Kalia Yang shares vivid memories of childhood and place. Illustrated by artist and architect Jen Shin.

Children’s librarian Tracy Kampa recaps the winners of the 2026 Youth Media Awards celebrating contributions to children's literature. Renée Watson's "All the Blues in the Sky" was this year's Newbery winner.

Children's librarian Tracy Kampa recommends new books from Beth Ferry, Daniel Miyares and Katherine Applegate. Plus, her recap of possible 2026 Newbery Medal contenders.

Grand Rapids Area Library children's librarian Tracy Kampa recommends new books by Maddie Frost, Megan Clendenan, Dan Gutman, and K. Woodman-Maynard.

English writer Katherine Rundell continues to weave dazzling stories in "The Poisoned King," book 2 in the Impossible Creatures series. With castles, dragons, and revenge, this is a thrilling and enjoyable read for ages 10 and up.

Grand Rapids Area Library children's librarian Tracy Kampa shares her recommendations on new children’s books by Indigenous authors including Jen Moudahi, Maria DesJarlait, Michaela Goade, and more. Also, new books by Kate DiCamillo and Kate Messner.

Tracy Kampa, children's librarian at the Grand Rapids Area Library recommends new books from Jashar Awan, Megan Maynor, Tiffany D. Jackson and Maryrose Wood. Plus a surprise collaboration between Stephen King and Maurice Sendak.

Minnesota writer and illustrators David LaRochelle and Colleen Muske's lovely and vibrant new picture book "How to Draw a Tree" teaches us to slow down and observe every part of a tree.

Erin Entrada Kelly’s “The First State of Being” is an exciting and meaningful story with well-crafted twists. Staff librarian Tammy Bobrowsky and children’s librarian Tracy Kampa dive into the Newbery Award winning novel in their latest Mini Book Club conversation.

New book recommendations from Grand Rapids Area Library children's librarian Tracy Kampa include stories from Sarah Kurpiel, Gordan Korman, Jewell Parker Rhodes and more.