Matteo

Leali (The Civil War of Amos Abernathy) tackles the booms and busts of small-town life alongside themes of acceptance in this feel-good, Pinocchio-inspired tale. When 11-year-old white-cued adoptee Matteo Lorenzini’s Black best friend—and secret crush—Omar Jones made the Creekside Blue Whales baseball team last year, it caused a rupture in their friendship. But this year, Matteo is on the team as well, and Omar now defends Matteo from their teammates’ bullying. Baseball and school life soon become the least of Matteo’s worries, however, when he starts sprouting leaves and bark every time he lies in an attempt to avoid embarrassment. He confides in his Latinx-cued best friend Azura Gonzalez, who speculates that Matteo’s foliage woes could be connected to Creekside’s beloved and ailing giant oak tree. While Matteo and Azura try to figure out the connection between his powers and the tree, he uses his abilities to scare bullies, reconnect with Omar, and uncover more about his birth family’s past. Though the story’s many plot threads get a bit woolly, Leali sensitively renders Matteo’s worries about his changing body and budding sexuality via a sweet fairy tale–like atmosphere, charming characters, and fantastical premise. Ages 8–12. Agent: Sara Crowe, Pippin Properties. (May)