Nigel Poor and Earlonne Woods, an unlikely pair, originally launched Ear Hustle as a podcast in 2017. Poor, a visual artist, and Woods, an inmate at the time, produced the podcast entirely within the confines of California’s San Quentin State Prison.

Now, they’ve created a book that presents new narratives of the incarcerated, relives past stories, and reveals what led each of them to become a co-creator of the original podcast. Note that the stories touch on serious and tough topics that not everyone may appreciate.

If you were a fan of the podcast, then the audiobook version (available via the Libby app) is highly recommended, as Poor and Woods narrate their book.

Henri Haltiwanger, also called Halti, seems to have it all. He’s one of the most popular students at the prestigious FATE school in New York, is a trusted dog walker for his wealthy neighbors, and can charm just about anyone. Anyone that is, except for his classmate Corrine Troy. When Corrine discovers that Henri’s dog walking business isn’t exactly what his customers think it is she blackmails him into helping her revamp her image at school. As the two spend more time together a friendship, and maybe something else, quickly develops. This light, but heartfelt, romance is sure to charm many readers.

In 1917, there were many things that women in the United States couldn’t do like vote or serve in the armed forces. But, when World War I was raging in Europe times were changing and many women answered the call to serve their country in whatever way they could. Discover the story of Grace Banker and her telephone operators who served in France alongside the US army. Through their service in carrying military orders, secret messages, and connecting soldiers on many different battlefields they supported the army to victory.

Experience the joy, pain, beauty, and wonder in life through this collection of poetry by renowned performance poet Sophia Thakur. In four parts Thakur brilliantly describes the process of finding yourself, who you are, and who you want to be. This critically acclaimed book is perfect for devoted poetry fans, fans of coming of age stories, and reluctant readers.

Follow along with beautiful illustrations as you learn all about Selena’s early years from singing Blue Moon in her family’s living room to her rise to the top of the billboard charts and international stardom. With quotes from Selena herself as well as from people who knew her this book shows how anyone can achieve their dreams. This biography about the Selena Quintanilla’s life and career not only teaches children about the singer and her legacy but also educates readers on Tejano music and culture and the importance of believing in yourself to achieve your dreams.

Based on the popular Youtube channel of the same name; cake artist Yolanda Gamp instructs readers how to make fantastic, mind-boggling cakes. The book begins by covering the basics of how to mix, bake, level, and ice cakes and from there provides different recipes based on skill levels. All the recipes have a complete list of tools and ingredients, clear and concise directions, photos, and an estimation of the time it will take to complete each cake. This book gives you all the information you need to create incredible edible works of art.

In the far distant future humans and androids live together on the crowded streets of New Beijing. A plague has ravaged the earth and the Lunar people of space are watching the devastation and waiting to make their move. The fate of the Earth rests on one girl, Cinder, who feels both the hatred of her by her step-mother and sisters, and the prejudice she faces as an android in a human’s world. Can she find the strength to save herself and everyone else? The first book in The Lunar Chronicles is a retelling of the classic fairytale Cinderella and will have readers on the edge of their seats. Perfect for fans of fairytales, strong female leads, and science-fiction adventure.

I love this 2020 picture book title. This beautifully illustrated book describes what children are. A child is a non-stop ball of energy. A child is a force of nature. A child is also a tight hug. Every child is worthy of success. Many of the pictures depict African American boys. Find a child you are proud of and read this book together. Share this book with a child who needs to hear that he or she is worthy to be loved. Read this book to yourself. Read it again and again.

This title available in print and as a ebook.