Our Favorite Books of 2015

Each month, we share our book enthusiast’s five favorite books. We’ve thought long and hard about the best of the best and are excited to announce our favorite books of 2015!

In this month’s selection you’ll find just five of the more than 80 titles selected as our outstanding favorites. To see all of our picks, visit the Favorite Books of 2015 section on the First Book Marketplace.

For Pre-K –K (Ages 3-6):

The Bus is for Us by Michael Rosen & Illustrated by Gillian Tyler

Small children take great delight in rides—whether by bicycle, car, boat, or plane. But best of all is taking the bus, because the bus is for everyone! Complimented by beautiful artwork from Gillian Tyler, this playful rhyming narrative by Michael Rosen will rev up little listeners to join right in.

For 1^st and 2^nd Grade (Ages 6-8):

Trombone Shorty  by Anthony Andrews & Illustrated by Bryan Collier
Andrews has created a lively picture book autobiography about how he followed his dream of becoming a musician, despite the odds, until he reached international stardom. With esteemed illustrator Bryan Collier artwork, Trombone Shorty is a celebration of the rich cultural history of New Orleans and the power of music.

For 3^rd & 4^th grade (Ages 8-10):

Mesmerized: How Ben Franklin Solved a Mystery that Baffled All of France by Maria Rockliff & illustrated by Iacopo Bruno

Discover how Benjamin Franklin’s scientific method challenged a certain Dr. Mesmer’s mysterious powers in this rip-roaring, lavishly illustrated peek into a fascinating moment in history.

For 5^th and 6^th Grade (Ages 10-12):

Roller Girl Written & Illustrated by Victoria Jamieson

In her graphic novel debut, real-life derby girl Victoria Jamieson has created an inspiring coming-of-age story about friendship, perseverance, and girl power!

Grades 7 & up (Ages 13+)

House Arrest by K.A. Holt

By turns touching and funny, and always original, House Arrest is a novel in verse about one boy’s path to redemption as he navigates life with a sick brother, a grieving mother, and one tough probation officer.