For each month of the 2025-2026 calendar school year, professionals at the National Education Association (NEA) select one picture book, one middle grade book, and one young adult book that encourage readers to explore a specific topic while also engaging with diverse, inclusive literature. Lee & Low Books is proud to have three titles selected for inclusion in the 2025-2026 Read Across America Calendar for the months of October, December, and July!
MIDDLE GRADE PICK: THE REEL WISH
by Yamile Saied Méndez
⭐4 STARRED REVIEWS⭐
⭐"This age is difficult to capture, and Méndez portrays it beautifully; Florencia has very grown-up feelings and actions interspersed with childlike observances. . . . Seeing a fellow tween navigate a difficult time will inspire not just dancers but any young person finding their way back to themselves." —Booklist, starred review
MIDDLE GRADE PICK: THE DOOMSDAY DETECTIVES: HOW WALTER AND LUIS ALVAREZ SOLVED THE MYSTERY OF DINOSAUR EXTINCTION
by Cindy Jenson-Elliott, illustrated by Theo Nicole Lorenz
⭐3 STARRED REVIEWS⭐
⭐"Using the framework of the scientific process to structure the content, Jenson-Elliott effectively builds on explanations that contextualize the major concepts that drive the Alvarezes' discovery. . . . Emphasizes the thrill of these discoveries, which are made all the more thrilling by the fact that there is still so much more to learn. Perfect for kids who want to go all-in on dinosaurs." —Booklist, starred review
Read Cindy Jenson-Elliott's guest post on the Open Book Blog!
ELEMENTARY PICK: A SKY THAT SINGS
by Anita Sanchez & George Steele, illustrated by Emily Mendoza
"Ideal for any educator teaching listening skills or the science of birding, this book is also an inclusive tool perfect for a variety of content connections, including science and ELA." —School Library Journal
The National Education Association (NEA), the nation's largest professional employee organization, is committed to advancing the cause of public education. NEA's 3 million members work at every level of education—from pre-school to university graduate programs. NEA has affiliate organizations in every state and in more than 14,000 communities across the United States.
