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Book Bartender artworkThe Vanderbeekers of 141st StreetKarina Yan Glaser

Middle grade family fiction

The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street

by Karina Yan Glaser

Just before Christmas, the five Vanderbeeker children learn that their reclusive landlord will not renew the lease on their beloved Harlem brownstone. Convinced that he can be won over, they launch a series of increasingly elaborate plans involving gifts, pets, neighbors, and their own very different talents. Their schemes do not unfold as intended, but the effort reveals how deeply the family’s life is woven into the surrounding community. Cheerful, bustling, and full of sibling energy, this middle-grade story is made for December family reading and anyone who believes a home is built from far more than walls.

Paired for this story

Chocolate Milk + Brandy Tea Toddy

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At a glance

Know what you're getting into

Spice0 of 5
Suspense2 of 5
Creepy0 of 5
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No surprises at chapter twelve

Content notes

Housing insecurity · Grief and loss · Mild family conflict

Alcohol-Free Pour

Chocolate Milk

A familiar chocolate treat for Christmas schemes, sibling teamwork, and the warmth of home.

What you'll need

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How to mix it

  1. Makes 1 serving.
  2. Pour the milk into a glass and add 1 tablespoon of chocolate syrup.
  3. Stir well until the syrup is fully mixed in. Taste and add more syrup if you like a richer chocolate flavor.
  4. For a warm version, gently heat the mixed chocolate milk in a small saucepan, stirring until warm; do not boil. Pour into a mug and let it cool to a comfortable drinking temperature.
  5. Garnish: Top with a swirl of whipped cream, if desired.
  6. Glassware: Tall glass for cold chocolate milk; mug for the warm version.
21+

Cocktail Pour · 21+

Brandy Tea Toddy

For adults of legal drinking age. Please drink responsibly.

Brandy, honey, and lemon warm black tea into a comforting toddy.

What you'll need

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Alcohol-shopping links are not shown on children's or young-adult book pages.

How to mix it

  1. Add brandy, honey, and lemon juice to a warmed mug. Top with hot black tea and stir.
  2. Garnish: Lemon wheel.
  3. Glassware: Mug.

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