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Kids Indie Next

July/August 2023

Find the best recommendations for summer 2023 children's book releases from independent booksellers.

#1 Pick: The Skull
Hardcover / USED - Good

A #1 New York Times bestseller Caldecott Medalist and New York Times best-selling author-illustrator Jon Klassen delivers a deliciously macabre treat for folktale fans. Jon Klassen's signature wry humor takes a turn for the ghostly in this thrilling retelling of a traditional Tyrolean folktale. In a big abandoned house, on a barren hill, lives a skull. A brave girl named Otilla has escaped from terrible danger and run away, and when she finds herself lost in the dark forest, the lonely house beckons. Her host, the skull, is afraid of something too, something that comes every night. Can brave Otilla save them both? Steeped in shadows and threaded with subtle wit--with rich, monochromatic artwork and an illuminating author's note--The Skull is as empowering as it is mysterious and foreboding.

Picture Books

Bitsy Bat, School Star
Kaz Windness

from: $10.59

Cape
Kevin Johnson

from: $5.09

I Want to Be Spaghetti!
Kiera Wright Ruiz

from: $6.99

The Ice Cream Vanishes
Julia Sarcone-Roach

from: $5.99

The Masjid Kamal Loves
Ashley Franklin

from: $7.59

We Are Going to Be Pals!
Mark Teague

from: $4.89

When Rubin Plays
Gracey Zhang

from: $6.09

You Can't Be a Pterodactyl!
James Breakwell

from: $11.29

Middle Grade

Abeni's Song
P. Djèlí Clark

from: $4.49

The Bellwoods Game
Celia Krampien

from: $5.09

Camp Sylvania
Julie Murphy

from: $5.59

Half Moon Summer
Elaine Vickers

from: $5.79

Into the Shadow Mist
Christina Soontornvat

from: $7.59

The Kingdom Over the Sea
Zohra Nabi

from: $14.79

The Many Masks of Andy Zhou
Jack Cheng

from: $6.59

Misfit Mansion
Kay Davault

from: $7.29

The Probability of Everything
Sarah Everett

from: $4.29

Young Adult

All That’s Left to Say
Emery Lord

from: $5.49

An Echo in the City
K.X. Song

from: $5.09

The Faint of Heart
Kerilynn Wilson

from: $9.89

Give Me s Sign
Anna Sortino

from: $4.99

Going Bicoastal
Dahlia Adler

from: $5.69

Saint Juniper's Folly
Angeline Boulley

from: $4.49

The Shadow Sister
Lily Meade

from: $6.89

Sing Me to Sleep
Gabi Burton

from: $5.09

Their Vicious Games
Joelle Wellington

from: $5.59

You're Not Supposed to Die Tonight
Kalynn Bayron

from: $5.19

Discover the Kids Indie Next List: Top Indie Bookstore Picks for Summer 2023

The Kids Indie Next List highlights the most anticipated and beloved children’s and young adult books as recommended by indie booksellers across the country. Whether you're searching for the best Indie Next kids books, exploring new authors, or hoping to find Indie Next kids books online at affordable prices, this collection brings together July and August 2023’s standout titles. Here, you can buy Indie Next kids books in used condition, making it easy to build your child's library with top-rated reads selected by indie bookstores.

Why Shop the Indie Next Kids Collection?

  • Curated by Indie Booksellers: Each book is handpicked by passionate experts who know what young readers love.
  • Wide Range of Genres: From picture books to middle grade adventures and young adult fiction, there’s something for every age and interest.
  • Affordable Options: Discover used Indie Next children's books at prices that make reading accessible for all families.
  • Support Independent Voices: Enjoy stories that reflect diverse backgrounds, fresh perspectives, and the creativity of today’s most exciting authors.

Browse by Age & Reading Level

Not sure where to start? Explore the Indie Next children's fiction list July August 2023 by age group to find the right fit for your reader:

  • Middle Grade (Ages 8-12):
    • Engaging adventures, coming-of-age stories, and heartfelt journeys perfect for independent readers.
    • Discover imaginative tales and meaningful themes in the The Faint of Heart by Kerilynn Wilson, a title that stands out for its blend of suspense and relatable characters—ideal for tweens who love a good twist.
  • Young Adult (Ages 12+):
    • Complex narratives, diverse perspectives, and thought-provoking plots for teens and adults alike.
    • If your teen is seeking a compelling story of resilience and friendship, All That’s Left to Say by Emery Lord is a top choice from the Indie Next middle grade recommendations and YA lists.
    • For readers interested in international settings and social movements, An Echo in the City by K.X. Song offers a gripping look at activism and identity.

Genres and Themes: What Will You Find?

The Indie Next kids books featured here cover a wide spectrum of genres and themes, ensuring there’s something to spark every young reader’s imagination:

  • Contemporary Realism:
    • Give Me a Sign by Anna Sortino explores the journey of a deaf teen navigating friendships, first love, and identity—a heartwarming selection for readers seeking authentic representation.
  • Fantasy & Paranormal:
    • Saint Juniper's Folly by Angeline Boulley invites readers into a world of mystery and folklore, blending supernatural elements with coming-of-age themes.
    • For fans of high-stakes competition and psychological suspense, Their Vicious Games by Joelle Wellington delivers a thrilling read that keeps pages turning late into the night.
  • Romance & Identity:
    • Navigate love and self-discovery in Going Bicoastal by Dahlia Adler, a fresh take on parallel lives and big decisions—perfect for teens pondering their own futures.
    • The Shadow Sister by Lily Meade offers an emotional exploration of family secrets and sibling connections, making it a standout for readers drawn to character-driven stories.
  • Mystery & Adventure:
    • You're Not Supposed to Die Tonight by Kalynn Bayron is a gripping horror-inspired read for fans who love chills and twists.
    • Experience dark fantasy and forbidden love in Sing Me to Sleep by Gabi Burton, one of the most popular Indie Next kids reads for its unique blend of romance and suspense.

How to Choose the Right Indie Next Kids Book

With so many top-rated Indie Next children's books to choose from, consider these tips to find the perfect match:

  1. Consider Interests: Does your reader prefer adventure, fantasy, realistic fiction, or romance? Each genre offers a different experience—explore our curated picks above.
  2. Check Reading Level: Middle grade books like The Faint of Heart are ideal for tweens, while titles such as All That’s Left to Say and Their Vicious Games cater to older teens.
  3. Explore Diverse Voices: Many books in this collection reflect a wide range of backgrounds and experiences, like Give Me a Sign and An Echo in the City, making them great choices for readers seeking authentic stories.
  4. Read Reviews: Check out feedback from other readers to learn more about why these are the best Indie Next kids books for summer 2023.

Why Indie Bookstore Kids Picks Stand Out in 2023

The Indie Next children's fiction list July August 2023 is more than just a list—it’s a snapshot of what excites young readers today, as chosen by the book community’s most trusted curators. These indie bookstore kids picks 2023 highlight rising stars and established authors alike, ensuring every book on the shelf is a celebration of creativity and connection.

  • Noteworthy Debuts: Discover fresh talent with books like The Shadow Sister and Sing Me to Sleep, both praised for their strong voices and imaginative storytelling.
  • Returning Favorites: For readers who loved previous Indie Next standouts, authors like Emery Lord and Dahlia Adler return with titles designed to inspire and entertain.

Find and Buy Used Indie Next Kids Books Online

ThriftBooks makes it easy to find Indie Next kids books online and build a home library that grows with your child. Shop our selection of used Indie Next children's books to get the most value from each purchase—perfect for parents, teachers, and young readers alike. Every book you buy helps extend the life of quality stories and supports a culture of reading.

  • Easy Shopping: Browse by age, genre, or theme to quickly locate the most popular Indie Next kids reads for your family.
  • Affordable Prices: Many titles are available for under $6, so you can stock up on favorites like Saint Juniper's Folly or Going Bicoastal without breaking the bank.
  • Convenient Delivery: Enjoy fast shipping and easy returns on every order.

Get Started with the Indie Next Kids List

Whether you’re searching for a powerful coming-of-age story, a thrilling adventure, or a heartfelt contemporary novel, the Indie Next picture book selection 2023 and young adult picks have something for every reader. Browse our collection above, read detailed descriptions, and buy Indie Next kids books confidently knowing these titles are loved by indie booksellers and readers nationwide.

Explore, discover, and inspire the next generation of readers with the Indie Next Kids collection on ThriftBooks.

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