PAL: Published and Listed

Kate Woodle’s illustration grace the pages of Carry a Bead for Courage, a picture book written by Steven Bay. The story begins with two children who find an unusual bead at the park. Could they sell it? They learn that the bead is priceless – a special bead that can help a child with a serious illness. Highlights the Beads of Courage program. Released in December.

Alicia Klepeis has two new books in the “Countries” series: China and Cuba. These books provide middle grade readers with an overview of each country’s history, geography, resources, and culture. Special features highlight climate and conservation issues. Released January 1 from North Star Editions

DJ Brandon ‘s newest book is a novel-in-verse. Pearl, who has lived a secluded life with her father for as long as she can remember, has limited contact with the outside world. She’s not allowed to sleepover at friends houses, or go to parties. So when Dad doesn’t come home one day, Pearl must decide whether keep her life a secret and go it on her own, or to trust another adult to help. Releases February 1 from West 44 Books

Jacob Souva’s clever and humorous illustrations bring Kellie DuBay Gillis’s newest picture book to life. Is it a big bike or a little bike? Fast or slow? So much depends on whether it’s bird or hippo taking it for a ride! Releases February 25 from Harper Collins

THE AIR WE SHARE: Air carries mostly good stuff like seeds, scents, and sounds. And it carries bad stuff like ash, dust and smog. The problem - what goes up in one place ends up in another, because air travels around the earth carrying all that stuff. Releases May 27 from Holiday House. And, KISSES ARE INVISIBLE: At mom’s suggestion, Theo goes on a search for all the invisible things he can find: Wind! Music! Warmth! He thinks he has found them all until mom tucks him in at night, with snuggles and kisses. Releases Jun 17 from Tilbury House