For many of us, the new year is a time for new beginnings. A chance to hit reset and open our minds to new opportunities and possibilities. With that in mind, we wanted to put the spotlight on three popular, previously selected titles that follow the adventures of protagonists who are stepping into a new world or undergoing major changes in their lives and starting a new chapter.

Stay Sweet by Siobhan Vivian

Meade Creamery is a tradition for Amelia. It’s her favorite ice cream spot in Sand Lake, where she and her family spend their summers. In fact, Amelia and her best friend Cate have worked at the stand for the last three summers in a row. So for Amelia, the creamery represents happy memories from her past. But all that changes when the owner, Molly, suddenly dies.

As “Head Girl” at the creamery, Molly finds herself unexpectedly in charge, stepping into a leadership role in a new way. At first, she’s not sure the stand will be able to continue. But she’s not ready to let it go, and decides to do her best to keep it in business -- but not without some dramatic changes.

"A rare, enjoyable portrait of a woman-run business....Amelia possesses the qualities she needs to achieve her goals but, like many girls, lacks confidence in using them; watching her evolve is empowering." —Kirkus Reviews

The Altered History of Willow Sparks by Tara O’Connor

Life for Willow Sparks is pretty routine. As a geeky teen, her days consist of trying to make it through school relatively unscathed. But something happens that offers the possibility of a completely different life. Willow finds a magical book with the ability to alter reality. Whatever the owner writes in the book comes to pass in the real world.

Initially, things seem to be changing in Willow’s favor. But where will this new life lead her? Will she find the popularity she had always hoped for? Or are there deeper lessons in store for Willow?

“...an enjoyable and quick dip into the dark side of wish fulfillment.” —Kirkus Reviews

No Fixed Address by Susin Nielsen

Twelve-and-three-quarters-year-old Felix Knuttson is a whiz at trivia. He even named his gerbil after the host of his favorite game show, Who, What, Where, When.

But life hasn’t been easy for Felix. While his mother is loving, she has always had trouble holding down a job. They’ve spent Felix’s childhood moving from apartment to apartment. And when they’re forced to leave their most recent rundown place, they have no choice but to live in their van.

Felix runs into a little bit of luck, though, and is asked to audition to be a contestant on WWWW, with the possibility of winning a lot of money. Will this be the big break that will change everything for Felix and his mom, and allow them to have a fresh start?

"A well-written work of realism that will be a mirror to some and a window for others."—School Library Journal, starred review

With the start of the new year, we hope some exciting, new plans are on your horizon. As you plan your own fresh start for the year, celebrate your new beginning with a new title for your collection.