Kali

Eleven-year-old Simon and his sisters are staying at their Grandma's century-old house for fall break, but something's amiss. Weird scratching noises, funny smells, strange shadows, and what's going on with Grandma? Simon and his sisters embark on a hunt for answers in the form of a ghost hunt. As more evidence is uncovered, old family secrets are brought to light. But Simon has a secret of his own, and it will take a lot of courage to tell everyone. This wonderfully spooky middle-grade mystery highlights the complicated relationships that LGBTQ kids sometimes have with their families and the community that can be found as a result.

Catch a glimpse of the nightly goings on of a red brick apartment building, in this cute, sleepy story of chain reactions. With almost scrapbook-like illustrations reminiscent of childhood crafts, and plenty of sound effects just waiting to be blurted out with whimsy, this diverse picture book is a great way to end a chaotic day and get settled for bed.

Travel back in time to 19th-century London, where two men unite to write a groundbreaking academic journal covering sexual freedom. With enthralling detail, this book shows the harsh reality of being gay in the late 1890s, while also providing the reader with glimpses of happiness, as well as hope for a better future. Based on real-life people, this is one of the most engaging historical novels I've read to date.

Robin Roe blew me away with her exploration of trauma, identity and friendship. Every character felt achingly real and there were just enough twists to keep me on the edge of my seat, wondering how and even if Sayers would escape. This haunting tale will stay with you long after you've read it.