Nourishing the soul
By LJ and SLJ editors
Tasting different kinds of food is usually a key part of any kind of food festival. This fall, however, organizers of culinary events are finding new ways to connect with food lovers around the globe. One benefit of this new reality is that foodies can attend festivals in far-flung locales that may have been too far or expensive to travel to in usual times. When it comes to cooking demonstrations, online viewers can often get a better view of the techniques being shown than they would by viewing them in person. We highlight festivals that the entire family can enjoy this season.

We also feature upcoming romance novels that can serve as escapism in this time of uncertainty. Lastly, we share snapshots of pandemic life, and encourage you to share your work area, garden, or any space that is bringing you comfort during these challenging times.

Sample a Virtual Food Festival This Fall
By Melanie Kletter
Here are some food events taking place virtually in the coming weeks. Some of these events are free, though many food festivals are also fundraisers so some charge fees for participants to attend.

Nicola and David Yoon To Launch YA Romance Imprint by and About People of Color
By SLJ Staff
Authors Nicola and David Yoon will start the new imprint at Random House Children's Books to let young people of color know "they are deserving of happily-ever-afters," according to Nicola Yoon.

Buzz-worthy Books of the Week

• 100 Cookies by Sarah Kieffer
• Eating Out Loud by Eden Grinshpan
• Bone Canyon by Lee Goldberg
• Overdrawn by N.J. Crosskey

LJ Talks to Kwana Jackson
By Kellie Tilton
Kwana Jackson advocates for diversifying the romance genre under the hashtag she coined, #WeNeedDiverseRomance. LJ recently caught up with Jackson to talk books, libraries, and the future of her favorite genre.

6 Election-Themed YA Novels Tackle Relationships and Political Engagement
By SLJ Staff
Teens have long been engaged in the world around them, and this year many of them may be voting for the first time. As you encourage young people to be civic-minded, recommend these election-themed YA books.

22 Latinx Middle Grade Titles Filled with Magic, Found Family, and More
By SLJ Staff
This roundup of books for young readers highlights the diversity of story and culture within the Latinx community. Add these to your Latinx Heritage Month displays and promote yearlong.

Books That Answer, "How Did We Get Here?"
By LJ Reviews
In light of current events, patrons may be looking for answers to the question: "How did we get here?" We round up books that offer insight into American politics, from the founding of the country to the present day.

When Words Fail: Pandemic Life in a Picture
By Kara Yorio
Send us a snapshot of your life during the pandemic for an SLJ photo essay that tells the story of this time. It could be your work area, garden, a cabinet full of hand sanitizer, a pet, or favorite work-from-home outfit.

Choosing Love: 54 Romances for Our Times Promise Escape and Hope
By Kellie Tilton
In the coming months, readers can anticipate worthy new romances expressing strong themes of justice and activism, with the promise of a happy ending serving as the perfect remedy for uncertainty.