New Jersey State Reading Lists

2026 Garden State Childrens Book Award

Worm and Caterpillar Are Friends

Ready-to-Read Graphics Level 1
Illustrated by Kaz Windness
This edition: Hardcover, 64 pages
Publication date: January 31, 2023
Ages: 4 - 6

A Theodor Seuss Geisel Honor Book A Kirkus Reviews Best Graphic Novel & Comic A New York Public Library Best Book A Chicago Public Library Best...

Nat the Cat Takes a Bath

Ready-to-Read Pre-Level 1
(Part of Nat the Cat)
Illustrated by Jarrett Lerner
This edition: Hardcover, 32 pages
Publication date: May 02, 2023
Ages: 3 - 5

A School Library Journal Best Transitional Book It’s bath time for Nat the Cat in this second book in the hilarious, fourth wall–breaking Pre-Level...

Duel

Illustrated by Aaron Bagley
This edition: Hardcover, 320 pages
Publication date: November 07, 2023
Ages: 8 - 12

A rivalry between sisters culminates in a fencing duel in this funny and emotional debut graphic novel sure to appeal to readers of Raina Telgemeie...

2026 Garden State Childrens Book Award

Fungi Grow

Illustrated by Diana Sudyka
This edition: Hardcover, 48 pages
Publication date: October 17, 2023
Ages: 4 - 8

Discover when, how, where, and why fungi grow in this poetic and illuminating nonfiction picture book in the vein of When the Sky Glows and Animal ...

2025 Garden State Teen Book Award Nominee

Duel

Illustrated by Aaron Bagley
This edition: Hardcover, 320 pages
Publication date: November 07, 2023
Ages: 8 - 12

A rivalry between sisters culminates in a fencing duel in this funny and emotional debut graphic novel sure to appeal to readers of Raina Telgemeie...

Mid-Air

Illustrated by Danica Novgorodoff
This edition: Hardcover, 320 pages
Publication date: April 23, 2024
Ages: 10 - 99

Longlisted for the National Book Award A tender-souled boy reeling from the death of his best friend struggles to fit into a world that wants him t...

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