Looking for something to read? Let us help!

Curated Lists from Your Librarians

Check out these lists on popular topics and genres, curated by your librarians. Not what you're looking for? We provide personalized book recommendations every day-- just drop by our desk, give us a call at 630-466-4686, or email youth@sgpl.org. Our experienced staff is here to help!

Beginning Chapter Books

Not sure where to start with chapter books? Check out this list of chapter books for kids who are ready to read on their own, but a little intimidated by books for older kids.

Start Here with Graphic Novels

Looking for a good graphic novel? Start here!

Illinois Readers' Choice Award Books

Every year, children's books are nominated for three Illinois readers' choice awards:

The Monarch Award nominates books for kids in Kindergarten through 3rd grade.
See this year's Monarch nominees in the catalog here.

The Bluestem Award nominates books for kids in 3rd through 5th grade. 
See this year's Bluestem nominees in the catalog here.

The Rebecca Caudill Young Readers' Book Award nominates books for kids in 4th through 8th grade. 
See this year's Caudill nominees in the catalog here.

Other Award-Winning Books

Find information about current and past children's book award winners, including winners of the Newbery, Caldecott, Pura Belpré, and more.

See the 2025 Youth Media Award Winners in the catalog here.

Looking for past award winners? Visit the Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC) Book & Media Awards Shelf for lists of past winners and honor books.

Header image courtesy of Lissette Corirossi with Snowbunny Photography, Inc.