What We're Reading in the Kids' Library
August 2026
The Lonely Lighthouse: The Story of Little Sable Point Lighthouse by Stephanie Owen
The Lonely Lighthouse: The Story of Little Sable Point Lighthouse
by Stephanie Owen

Readers will hear the life story of a Michigan lighthouse in this informational picture book. The illustrations help show readers how much things change over time. The book also has fun informational back matter about the lighthouse and the job of the keeper.

Best for Grades PreK-3.

Suggested by Amanda.
Beatrix and Her Friends by Anne Lambelet
Beatrix and Her Friends
by Anne Lambelet

Do you like nature and animals? Are you a fan of Peter Rabbit? This gorgeously illustrated biography celebrates the life of beloved children's book author Beatrix Potter. Discover how her lifelong love of nature and animals inspired her now-classic tales, and see how it just might inspire you!

Best for Grades PreK-3.

Suggested by Amy.
Pencil & Eraser: We Have a Dull-Emma!: An Early Reader Graphic Novel by Jenny Alvarado
Pencil & Eraser: We Have a Dull-Emma!
by Jenny Alvarado

Fans of Pizza and Taco will love this graphic novel series featuring two best friends - Pencil and Eraser. Pencil is an excited adventurer ready to take on challenges, while Eraser reluctantly comes along. But together, nothing can stop these two friends from reaching their goal - finding a sharpener.

Best for Grades K-2.

Suggested by Amanda.
Murray the Viking by Adam Stower
Murray and Bun!: Murray the Viking
by Adam Stower

Humorous and endearing, this fun and short chapter book is perfect for fans of Wizkit and The Trouble with Chickens. If you'd like a chapter book that has pictures in it, and if you like silly and cute animals, this book is for you!
 
 
Best for Grades 2-4.

Suggested by Cathy.
Gracie Wei #1: You're a Winner, Gracie Wei by Kristen Mei Chase
Gracie Wei #1: You're a Winner, Gracie Wei
by Kristen Mei Chase

Gracie Wei is a fourth grader with a plan to finally win an award, and she has her eye on the school spelling bee. This is a funny story and relatable to anyone who has ever wanted to win an award and to anyone who wants to make their parents proud.

Best for Grades 2-4.

Suggested by Amy.
Found Sound by Meg Wolitzer
Found Sound
by Meg Wolitzer

Have you ever really listened to all the sounds around you? Have you ever felt that no one, not even your family, listens to you? Felix Frank is a middle kid who thinks his summer is going to be boring until a new friend and a mysterious box challenge him to hear and see the world in a new way.

Best for Grades 3-5.

Suggested by Amy.
J vs. K by Kwame Alexander
J vs. K
by Kwame Alexander

If you like to tell stories with pictures, or write stories with words, or better yet, if you like to write AND draw, you will absolutely love this laugh-out-loud funny book about two 5th graders competing in a school story contest. If you're a "new kid" in a school, this book will help you see the humor behind the stress of making new friends in a new place.

Best for Grades 3-7.

Suggested by Cathy.
A Little Bit Super: With Small Powers Come Big Problems by Gary D. Schmidt
A Little Bit Super: With Small Powers Come Big Problems
by Gary D. Schmidt

This is a truly unique book that consists of a collection of short stories about kids with interesting superpowers. The stories have connected themes and intertwine in a "superpower" way. You can enjoy the whole book or just pick and choose short stories to read. You are bound to walk away from this book having learned more about yourself and life, while also experiencing mystery, fantasy, and humor.

Best for Grades 4-8.

Suggested by Cathy.
The Lovely Dark by Matthew Fox
The Lovely Dark
by Matthew Fox

The Lovely Dark is a moving middle-grade novel about grief and loss set in a boarding school in the Greek Underworld. A freak accident leaves Eleanor separated from her friend Justin and at Eventide House, a boarding school in the Greek Underworld where things are not quite what they seem. Fans of mysteries will enjoy the main plot of discovering what is happening at Eventide House, while Greek mythology fans will appreciate references made to some myths. 

Best for Grades 6-8.

Suggested by Amanda.
Elmhurst Public Library
125 S Prospect Ave.
Elmhurst, Illinois 60126
(630) 279-8696

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