One of my favorite issues of the year is our Children's and Young Adult Gift Issue. We joyfully showcase brilliant books for kids and teens every week, but it is extra special to highlight titles that may be slightly outside our usual coverage.
In this issue you will find incredible picture books, novels, and works of nonfiction: Kate McKinnon's merrily peculiar debut, The Millicent Quibb School of Etiquette for Young Ladies of Mad Science, features three girls on (slightly odd) STEM paths; in Westfallen, the Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants author joins forces with her brother to create a riveting alternate history; and African Icons, about 10 mostly unknown ancient African leaders, is available in a new, gorgeous edition. Readers will also be introduced to The Kids' Tarot (a deck and guidebook), Our Galaxy, a board book that can turn into a freestanding globe, and a graphic novel that teaches How to Be a Manga Artist.
Our features highlight picture book author/illustrator David Hyde Costello, and Barefoot Books executive editor Kate DePalma, who talks about the long-running interactive Singalongs series. Plus, check out our recent round-up of cookbooks for kids!