New books explore identity and mystery

A selection of new children's books released this year explores themes of identity, mystery, and family, offering stories for readers aged 10 and up. These books aim to engage young readers with imaginative plots and thought-provoking characters.

A boy discovers a strange country

Erêves by Stéphane Servant follows a middle school student who discovers a country where his understanding of "normality" is reversed, and he is hunted like a "monster." His only refuge is a circus, with a narrative described as tense, absurd, and often poetic.

A girl encounters a magical pastry shop

Midnight Tea Time by Maureen Desmailles and Antonin Faure tells the story of Vère, a greedy little girl who cannot resist a strange pastry shop near her home, only to discover it is the lair of a terrible cake-eating fairy. The story is noted for sending shivers with delight.

A family faces financial hardship

For ages 11 and up, Olivia by Maite Carranza follows a girl whose mother, an actress, loses her job, putting the family at risk of eviction from their apartment. The article detailing these releases is reserved for subscribers.