2024 MCPL Children's Staff Favorites

Here are some outstanding titles that the Library's Children's Department staff members read in 2024!


Compiled by:
Jon S.
Golden Polar Bear Award
Drawn Onward

Daniel Nayeri
(Juvenile Picture Books - Ej Nay)

The Golden Polar Bear represents a special picture book that is a favorite among the MCPL Children’s staff. 

Drawn Onward (read that backwards!) is a beautifully illustrated and wonderfully unique children’s book that is written as a palindrome. The main character is a boy who embarks on a fantastical quest away from home where he can be heroic in the face of his overwhelming grief at the loss of a parent. Children’s staff describe the book as “inspiring and entrancing,” and “a powerful reminder that fantasy and imagination can be an essential tool for understanding our own real-world struggles.” Recommended for ages 4–8.


Picture Books and Younger Elementary
Foodie Faces

Bill Wurtzel
(Juvenile Picture Books - Ej Wur)

A wide range of emotions are cleverly recreated with foods such as bananas, berries, and bread. Staff member Lindsay says, “All faces in the book are made out of food! I liked it because it was a fun way to introduce emotions and face features to my baby. I think infants will especially like this book because of the different foods and emotions featured!” Recommended for ages 4–8.


It Is Okay

Ye Guo
(Juvenile Picture Books - Ej Guo)

Goat and Bunny meet one day and become fast friends over their love of canned grass. As their friendship deepens, they realize they also have a lot of differences. But, that's okay! Staff member Tressa says, “The simple but engaging illustrations and text reflect the easy way in which Goat and Bunny navigate the ups and downs of friendship. This is a playful read for all ages!” Recommended for ages 4–8.


Squirrel Needs a Break

Kristen Remenar
(Juvenile Picture Books - Ej Rem)

Squirrel is tired and grumpy after being cooped up with his three rambunctious kits all winter. Luckily, he has his family of animal friends who all decide to babysit the kits, and treat Squirrel to a day of self-care. Staff member Kathy says, “I like how community and chosen family are depicted as a natural part of family life, and as beneficial for all involved. This will be familiar and relatable to both adults and children.” Recommended for ages 4–7.


Older Elementary
Anzu and the Realm of Darkness

Mai K. Nguyen
(Juvenile Graphic Novels - J-GN Nguyen Anzu and the Realm of Darkness)

Awkward new student Anzu runs away and ends up in the supernatural underworld in this magical graphic novel. Staff member Paul calls it “a fast-paced and touching fantasy adventure jam-packed with drama, action, great art, and fantastical creatures and beings from Shinto folklore.” Recommended for ages 9–12.


The Curse of Eelgrass Bog

Mary Averling
(Juvenile Fiction - J Averling)

12-year-old Kess Pedrock struggles to keep up with running her family’s Unnatural History Museum during her parents’ Antarctic expedition. When a visitor brings Kess a mysterious old map of the cursed Eelgrass Bog, she sets out to uncover the bog’s secrets. Staff member Tyana says, “This book manages to be both eerie and heart-warming at the same time. It's one of the best mysteries I've read in awhile, it had me guessing the entire time. The plot twist had me floored!” Recommended for ages 8–12.


Ferris

Kate DiCamillo
(Juvenile Fiction - J Dicamil)

Ferris is a girl who's going through some big changes the summer before fifth grade. The lively cast of characters that is her family is keeping Ferris on her toes. From her sister who yearns to be an outlaw, her grandmother who hasn't been feeling well, and a possible ghost, Ferris has a lot on her plate. Growing up is tricky business and a lot can happen in one summer. Staff member Emmy says, “Much like DiCamillo's other books, Ferris beams with humor, empathy, multigenerational love, and incredible vocabulary.” Recommended for ages 8–12.


Impossible Creatures

Katherine Rundell
(Juvenile Fiction - J Rundell)

Two children meet while trying to save a griffin from drowning, and the action and adventure begins! Staff member Cidne describes the book as “a magical tale of bravery, duty, and friendship that will transport readers of any age into an unforgettable experience.” Includes a fabulous map and beautiful illustrations throughout. Recommended for ages 9–12.


Nicola Traveling Around the Demons’ World

Asaya Miyanaga
(Juvenile Manga - J-MANGA Nicolat v. 1 Miyanag)

Nicola is a plucky human girl stuck in the strange and fantastical demons' world. Accompanied by a crafty yet friendly demon Simon, Nicola meets a wide range of monsters and magical creatures. Staff member Jon says, “This manga is perfect for young fans of Studio Ghibli movies!” Recommended for ages 9-12.


Sir Callie and the Champions of Helston

Esme Symes-Smith
(Juvenile Fiction - J Symessm)
Series: Sir Callie

For 12-year-old Callie, becoming a knight is only half the battle. To achieve their dream, Callie must work with the crown prince and the twin children of the cruel chancellor to overcome bigotry. This book is perfect for anyone who loves gripping fantasy stories about friendship, growth, trauma, and self-discovery. Staff member Grayson says, "For me, the Sir Callie series is a masterpiece. Esme Symes-Smith presents us with a cast of lovable characters who will have you laughing, crying, and cheering them on as they show us all why we should have empathy and hope, even in the darkest times." Recommended for ages 9–12.


The Swifts: A Dictionary of Scoundrels

Beth Lincoln
(Juvenile Fiction - J Lincoln)
Series: Swifts

Join Shenanigan Swift in a quirky and hilarious mystery involving a lost treasure, a family reunion, and a murder! Staff member Kathleen says, “Filled with wordplay and mayhem, this book is clever and suspenseful. If you're a fan of Lemony Snicket, you'll probably love this.” Recommended for ages 8–12.