Perfect for fans of Adam Silvera and Becky Albertalli, this book will rip your heart out before showing you how to heal from tragedy and celebrate life in the process.
THE GHOSTS WE KEEP
by Mason Deaver
Scholastic, June 2021
(via Dystel, Goderich & Bourret)
Everything happens for a reason.
At least that’s what everyone keeps telling Liam Cooper after his older brother Ethan is killed in a hit-and-run.
Feeling more alone and isolated than ever, Liam has to not only learn to face the world without one of the people he loved the most, but also face the fading relationships of his two best friends in the process.
Soon, Liam finds themself spending time with Ethan’s best friend, Marcus, who might just be the only person that seems to know exactly what they’re going through-for better and for worse.
THE GHOSTS WE KEEP is an achingly honest portrayal of grief. But it is also about why we live. Why we have to keep moving on, and why we should.
« An unflinchingly honest story that doesn’t shy away from the complex emotions of grief, but also offers a hopeful path forward. » ― Booklist, starred review
« Liam’s hard-won hope makes for an emotional journey that’s as heart-expanding as it is heartbreaking. » ― Publishers Weekly
« An honest look at the messy, overwhelming experience of coping with sudden loss. » ― School Library Journal
« A nuanced exploration of grief and how it influences our relationships and sense of self. » ― The Nerd Daily
Born and raised in a small North Carolina town, Mason Deaver is an award-winning and bestselling author of books like I Wish You All the Best, which was named an NPR Concierge Pick and picked to be a Junior Library Guild selection. On the rare occasion they aren’t writing, they usually fill their time by watching horror movies, or worsening their bad posture by playing too many video games.
Hilariously eccentric and self-aware, Alina Tysoe, the pink-haired illustrator behind the wildly popular WHAT’S UP, BEANIE?, captures relatable topics like family, the awkward pains of social anxiety, sweet moments of love and a growing relationship, amusing childhood stories, and her intense love of dogs. Adorably drawn, these endearing snapshots of Alina’s life are surprisingly familiar, as if they’ve been taken from your own life: finding solace with a lone puppy at a crowded party, the frustration of deciding what to eat for dinner, making the mistake of hitting the snooze button, accidentally stepping on a dog’s foot and feeling like a MONSTER, and tons more! Including dozens of all-new exclusive comics in addition to fan favorites, this collection is perfect for those who need a laugh at the small agonies of life.
With 50+ sweet, lightly guided prompts, this journal will encourage you to record memorable moments with friends, reflect on what you love about yourself, and list the things that make you happiest (pizza, cookies, other snacks). With adorable illustrations throughout, space for list-making and journaling, and ideas for pampering yourself, it’s a fun new way to interact with Pusheen, Stormy, Pip, and the gang. 
In Leon’s world, superheroes are common as teachers or dentists—at Leon’s school, they come to Career Day alongside comic book artists and chefs! But being a superhero is anything but ordinary for kids like Leon, without powers. Surprise ambushes from villains can ruin a school trip, and superhero kids have a pretty unfair advantage in gym class. Though Leon’s keen common sense is practically a power unto itself, it’s not always effective against super-bullies… Until kids at school suddenly become obsessed with a new game. Even some of the super-kids seem trapped by flashing lights on their phone. As Leon swings into action, figuring out what’s taking over the school and his town, his common sense – and a few secrets he’ll discover hiding in plain sight – may become more powerful than he ever imagined.
1986: The teenage daughter of a wealthy Vietnamese family gets lost in an abandoned rubber plantation while fleeing her angry father and is forever changed by the experience.