New Children's Books Releasing in March 2023

**Ruthie by Esmé Shapiro** (Tundra, March 17, recommended for ages 3-7): This whimsical tale follows Ruthie, a dog who imagines himself as a prince. When he escapes his home to explore his kingdom, he discovers a muddier reality, but also meets helpful friends along the way. Shapiro’s text and vibrant illustrations aim to delight young readers.

**While We’re Here by Anne Wynter**, illustrated by Micha Archer (Clarion, March 24, recommended for ages 4-8): This picture book tells the story of a mother and daughter racing to a birthday party only to find they are a day late. The narrative encourages slowing down and cherishing shared moments in the park, emphasized by Wynter’s playful verse and Archer’s beautiful collages.

**Shrinking Violet by Laurel Snyder**, illustrated by LeUyen Pham (Chronicle, March 31, recommended for ages 5-8): Violet tends to shrink when scared, especially when facing spiders and owls. However, when her bird friend is in danger, she learns about courage and her ability to grow. This engaging fable combines Snyder's storytelling with Pham's enchanting illustrations.

**Our Cities Depend on Us: Rethinking Our Urban Areas to Fight Climate Change by Victoria Tentler-Krylov** (Abrams, March 3, recommended for ages 7-10): A nonfiction picture book, this work explores urban sustainability innovations around the world, such as Singapore’s green roofs and London’s temporary dam. Tentler-Krylov’s art combines informative text with vibrant illustrations, appealing to readers of all ages.

**My Bicentennial Summer: True Adventures from the Most Epic Family Road Trip of All Time by G. Neri**, illustrated by Corban Wilkin (Candlewick, March 3, recommended for ages 7-10): In this semi-autobiographical account, Neri recounts a family road trip across the U.S. during its 1976 Bicentennial celebration. The book reflects on history and patriotism, offering a scrapbook-like presentation of America's stories.

**Red River Rose by Carole Lindstrom** (Bloomsbury, March 17, recommended for ages 8-11): In this first novel, Rose, a Métis girl living on the Saskatchewan prairie, confronts the threat of government-imposed displacement in 1885. Lindstrom's narrative draws parallels to "Little House on the Prairie," presenting a significant perspective on indigenous history.

**Falling to Fairyland by Sarah Jean Horwitz** (Little, Brown, March 31, recommended for ages 8-12): This middle-grade fantasy follows Cricket, a changeling boy, who partners with a cursed knight named Isaac on a quest through Fairyland. The story promises a blend of adventure and whimsy, characteristic of Horwitz's previous works.

**You Are Now Old Enough to Hear This by Aaron Starmer** (Penguin Workshop, March 24, recommended for ages 10-12): The story focuses on twelve-year-old Roman, the youngest in his family, who uncovers family secrets after his grandfather's death. The book weaves tales and hints as Roman learns to piece together the family's past.

**Armaveni by Nadine Takvorian** (Levine Querido, March 10, recommended for ages 12-18): This graphic novel explores Nadine's quest to learn about her Armenian heritage. Through her journey in Armenia and Turkey, the narrative tackles themes surrounding the Armenian genocide, connecting personal history with broader cultural identity.

**The Faraway Inn by Sarah Beth Durst** (Delacorte, March 31, recommended for ages 12 and up): Durst returns to young adult fiction with a story set in a cozy Vermont bed-and-breakfast filled with magical secrets. This work showcases her talent for blending whimsical elements with engaging storytelling.