A vibrant illustration can bring a children’s book to life, and Karen Young’s background in the arts and education gives her the perfect eye to transform your bookshelves from simple to stimulating. When she’s not talking with kids about their favorite books — she’s the youth services librarian at St. Louis Public Library’s Central Library — she’s advocating for the benefits of graphic novels and teaching visual literacy. Check out what her sharp artistic eye sees in these newly released books for young readers.
Thunder Boy Jr.
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By Sherman Alexie; Illustrated by Yuyi Morales
Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
Thunder Boy Smith Jr. is as grumpy as an afternoon storm — he’s given the same nickname as his father, but he wants one just for himself. On a journey of self-discovery, the boy tries on many monikers before settling on one. Mythical illustrations make the story jump off the page. “Morales is one of my favorite picture book illustrators working today,” Young says. “Her illustrations show the characters’ emotions beautifully.” (Ages 5 and up)
Lowriders to the Center of the Earth
Chronicle Books
By Cathy Camper; Illustrated by Raul Gonzalez III
The Lowriders are on another rambunctious adventure, and this time it’s to the center of the Earth. The gang—made up of an impala, octopus, and mosquito—use their automotive skills to travel to the Earth’s core and save their beloved cat, Genie. “The illustrations are frenetic and detailed,” Young says. And in addition to providing inspiration for young auto enthusiasts, the book translates Spanish and scientific terms. (Ages 8–12)
Shadowshaper
Arthur A. Levine Books
By Daniel José Older
It’s summertime in Brooklyn, and Sierra Santiago is ready to relax with friends, but her plans are soon trumped by a zombie’s arrival; murals mysteriously fading; and the discovery of her ancestral connection to a supernatural order called the Shadowshapers, who connect the spirit realm with the arts. “The author masterfully builds a thrilling magical world that is immediately recognizable as being very similar to our own,” Young says. “I suggest that easily frightened readers read this one with the lights on.” (Ages 12 and up)
And for something a little different, there’s:
Luno!
By Cary Gray
Cary James’ feet have taken him thousands of miles across North and South America on a unicycle, and now they have completed another seemingly impossible feat (pun intended)—they have illustrated a children’s book. The story follows a boy, Luno, who, like the author, wants to take a unicycle trip to South America. The young unicyclist visits cultural sites from the St. Louis Arch to Machu Picchu, learns about sustainability while traveling, and masters self-empowerment. James says he chose illustrating with his feet to inspire children who are disabled to push their own limits. The book, self-published by James, is available to order on his website. (Ages 5–9)
