Staff Faves 2025: Kids Chapter Books, Graphic Novels & Nonfiction
Every year we ask our staff across the library system for their favorite books published in a given year. Enjoy this list of some of our favorite chapter books, graphic novels and nonfiction books for kids! Annotations are by staff, or as noted. (Created November 2025)
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Oasis
GRAPHIC NOVEL. Siblings await their mother in a lonely, sandy expanse. A thought-provoking, affecting allegory that reflects difficult realities yet is filled with love. [Kirkus]
Format: Graphic Novel
Availability: Available
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The Freedom Seeker
CHAPTER BOOK. Fleeing bigotry in Chandigarh, India, a girl faces a perilous immigration journey to the United States. A riveting story of love, hope, and survival. [Kirkus]
Format: Book
Availability: Available
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Rachel Carson's Wonder-filled World
PICTURE BOOK NONFICTION. A soaring tribute to the perceptive naturalist and writer who jump-started the modern environmental movement. [Kirkus]
Format: Book
Availability: Available
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The Escape Artist
PICTURE BOOK NONFICTION. In this tale based on real-life events, a Māori octopus in a New Zealand aquarium makes a break back to the sea. [Kirkus]
Format: Book
Availability: Available
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The Undead Fox of Deadwood Forest
CHAPTER BOOK. Lonely Clare, a silver-tailed fox, lives in Deadwood Forest, ushering animals’ souls into the Afterlife. When a mysterious badger spirit appears, Clare’s world is turned upside down. [Lauren] Heartbreaking, marvelously funny, and generously redemptive. [Kirkus]
Format: Book
Availability: All copies in use
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Casey's Cases
GRAPHIC NOVEL. Hapless-but-spirited tween detective Casey tackles cases big and small, from a new girl at school to a lost cat. [NoveList Plus]
Format: Graphic Novel
Availability: Available
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Lu and Ren's Guide to Geozoology
GRAPHIC NOVEL. Two friends follow an old journal to find one girl’s missing grandmother. A charming story of relationships and fantastical discoveries. [Kirkus]
Format: Graphic Novel
Availability: All copies in use
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The Land Knows Me
NONFICTION. Through the Squamish language and cultural traditions, learn about Indigenous plant relationships and how we are all connected to nature through plant-based foods, medicines, and materials. (publisher description)
Format: Book
Availability: All copies in use
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Mr. Muffins
GRAPHIC NOVEL. Defender of the cosmos! Vanquisher of evil! Failure at frisbee?? Corgi shenanigans, epic space battles, and intergalactic heroes abound in this uplifting, action-packed adventure about the powerful connection between humans and their pets. [NoveList Plus]
Format: Graphic Novel
Availability: Available
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Benny on the Case
CHAPTER BOOK. A heartfelt character-driven mystery featuring a neurodivergent male protagonist that explores friendship, belonging, and family. [School Library Journal]
Format: Book
Availability: All copies in use
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