In a recent meeting, a selection of new and upcoming children's and young adult books was highlighted, showcasing a diverse range of themes and genres aimed at engaging young readers.

The first book discussed was \"The House on Yeet Street\" by Preston Norton, an LGBTQ novel for middle-grade readers. The story follows 13-year-old Aiden and his friends—Kai, Zephyr, and Terrence—as they navigate friendship, secret crushes, and a haunted house linked to a century-old curse. Aiden's journey of self-discovery is intertwined with supernatural elements, including encounters with a ghostly figure known as the Backwards Lady and a spirit named Gabby. This unique blend of historical fiction, coming-of-age narrative, and ghost story has garnered starred reviews, making it a recommended read for those interested in creepy tales with LGBTQ representation.

Next, \"The Truth About 5th Grade\" by Kim Tomsic and Mark Parisi was introduced as a humorous addition for fans of the \"Diary of a Wimpy Kid\" series. The book features two best friends, Charlotte and Alex, who share their experiences through diary entries, revealing the complexities of their friendship and the misunderstandings that arise. The illustrated format, complete with doodles and comics, captures the essence of a fifth-grade notebook, making it relatable and engaging for young readers.

The meeting also previewed two upcoming teen fiction titles. \"Darkly\" by Marisha Pessel, set for release on November 26, follows Diah Gannon, who lands an internship with a mysterious game design company after the death of its founder. As Diah and her fellow interns uncover hidden secrets, the story promises to deliver a thrilling and suspenseful experience.

Another anticipated release is \"The Party\" by Natasha Preston, scheduled for December 3. This teen mystery revolves around Bessie and her friends who gather at a remote castle for a spring break party that takes a deadly turn when a murder occurs. The combination of a storm and rising tensions among the friends adds to the suspense, making it a gripping read for fans of the genre.

Lastly, the meeting highlighted \"Lunch Buddies: Stunt Sandwich Superstar,\" the second book in a series by Daniel Wiseman. Aimed at younger children, this graphic novel features Marco and his sandwich buddy engaging in humorous stunts during a rainy day, appealing to early readers with its colorful illustrations and silly antics.

These selections reflect a commitment to providing diverse and engaging literature for young audiences, catering to various interests and reading levels.