Children's Fiction "Gems" Anyone?

One of the fun things I like to do is browse the new children's fiction books that are added to the collection at the library.  It is a pleasure to find a new book that has a richness of characterization as well as a compelling story.  Such books have a sparkle or brightness to them that draw me into the story and just keep me reading--often straight through to the end with no breaks.  These books I like to add it to my list of what I call "gems" of children's fiction.  And, fortunately, there are a lot of good writers who write for young audiences.  So, my question to you is if you have read any children's fiction lately that you would rate as a "gem"?