The new year promises to be one for the books! That's a reason to cheer for the students who increasingly turn to the internet to beat the pandemic-induced isolation and boredom. But that can bring too much screen time. And online classes aren't making the situation any better.

With publishers coming up with many interesting and inspiring books, it's time to finally give the internet a break. From science fiction to teen romance to thrillers and graphic novels, a treasure trove awaits young readers. Here are five great options for children to begin a new year, and a new healthy habit. Read on!

1) The Lion of Mars by Jennifer L Holm

Publisher: Random House Children's Books, Jan. 5, 2021

From The New York Times best-selling author, this one is for science-obsessed young readers. Eleven-year-old Bell, who has spent his entire life on Mars, is a regular kid who loves cats and cakes. He also is curious about the secrets the adults in the U.S. colony are keeping. But things take a turn when the adults fall ill to a virus. Now, Bell and other kids are the only ones who can help. It's available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

2) Song in a Rainstorm: The Story of Musical Prodigy Thomas "Blind Tom" Wiggins by Glenda Armand, Brittany Jackson (Illustrator)

Publisher: Albert Whitman & Company, Jan. 1, 2021

Born blind, into slavery, Thomas Wiggins, or "Blind Tom" as he was called, went on to become one of America's greatest musicians. This picture book by a black author traces the life and works of the prodigy and documents his struggle for freedom. Released on Jan. 1, the book is available on Barnes & Noble and Amazon.

3) Never After: The Thirteenth Fairy by Melissa de la Cruz

Publisher: Roaring Brook Press, Dec. 1, 2020

The first book in "The Chronicles of Never After" series has arrived. Everything is perfect in the life of Filomena Jefferson-Cho, including her progressive school, where there is no such thing as bullying. But Filomena feels bummed out, that is until she finds herself being followed by Jack Stalker, one of the heroes in the "Thirteenth Fairy," a series of books she loves. A whimsical and exciting read, this has enough fantasy for a middle-grader. It is available on Amazon and Powell's.

4) The Cousins by Karen M. Mcmanus

Publisher: Delacorte Press, Dec. 1, 2020

Milly, Aubrey, and Jonah Story are cousins, but they aren't exactly close to each other. One day, they get a missive from their grandmother, whom they have never met, inviting them to work at her island resort. Their parents want them to go. Inheriting a huge fortune sure seems like a good enough reason. But, the cousins are in for a surprise. This is a mystery thriller with twists and turns. It is available on Amazon.

5) The Magic Fish by Trung Le Nguyen

Publisher: Random House Graphic, Oct. 13, 2020

This graphic novel is a coming-of-age tale that has already won much praise. It follows a young Vietnamese boy who tries to navigate life through fairy tales. A story of family, language, and identity, "The Magic Fish" tackles a tough but easily relatable subject that teaches us that we all can have our happy endings. It is available on Amazon and Penguin.

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Representational image REUTERS/Mariana Bazo

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