"Basing her story on the published accounts of her true-life heroine, Mary Ellen Todd, Van Leeuwen describes a family's tumultuous journey along the Oregon Trail in 1852." --Publishers WeeklyWith only a guide book to show them the way, the Todd family sets out from their Arkansas home on a two thousand mile trek to claim unchartered Oregon Territory. Crossing rough terrain and encountering hostile people, the Todds show their true pioneering spirit. But as winter draws near, will the Todds have the strength to complete their journey? And if they make it, will Oregon fulfill their dreams?“This is a convincing picture of a pioneer journey that does a good job of showing the tremendous sacrifices people made to follow their dream of a better life.” –School Library Journal Read more

★ Human Relations Award, 2023 Children’s Book of the Year Winner★ Pencraft Best Book Award Winner★ Next Generation Book Award Winner★ Purple Dragonfly Book Award Winner★ Firebird Book Award Winner★ Family Choice Award Winner★ Literary Titan Gold Award Winner★ Mom's Choice Gold Award Winner★ Golden Wizard Book Prize Winner★ Story Monsters Award Winner★ Pinnacle Book Achievement Award★ Readers’ Favorite Book Award Winner Acclaimed as the Children's Book of the Year, a captivating tale that cultivates empathy, nurtures self-confidence, and inspires an attitude of appreciation in young minds. Help foster empathy, emotional intelligence, and social skills by introducing children to diverse perspectives, experiences, and a sense of gratitude for the blessings in their lives. Join Sophie, a young girl whose world was previously limited to the captivating glow of her iPad. This changes dramatically when she embarks on an extraordinary journey to the mesmerizing land of India, a place she knows only from storybooks.She encounters children from a humble mud colony in India's vibrant, colourful expanse. These children, despite their scarcity of possessions, carry an abundant joy that confounds and fascinates Sophie. Their deep-seated gratitude for life's little treasures ignites a spark in Sophie, setting her on a path of transformative self-discovery and wanting to make a difference in the world.Children Who Dance in the Rain is more than just a story―it's an intimate journey of self-realization and growth. What Sophie unravels in this enchanting land could change not just her perspective, but also how you perceive your world.In this enchanting tale, Sophie's transformation is profound. She learns to acknowledge and appreciate her own blessings―loving parents, a safe environment, and abundant resources. Sophie's journey is a testament that happiness isn't hinged on having ‘more’ but on the value we assign to what we already have.Sophie's journey helps us understand that our true wealth isn't measured by material possessions but by the gratitude we hold in our hearts. Through a revelation that opens her eyes wide, Sophie discovers that life extends far beyond the confines of her iPad screen. She harnesses a newfound confidence, realizing she has the potential to do so much more, to make a real difference in the world.True to one of its core themes about giving back, 100% percent of net proceeds from every fourth copy of Children Who Dance in the Rain will go to charities such as Save The Children, GiveWell and Bright Sparks School in Mohali, India, who are dedicated to providing educational opportunities for underprivileged children."Discover the magic of kindness, diversity, and empathy in this socially conscious picture book." – 'Wishing Shelf' Book Review"An inspiring and instructive introduction for readers to ideas about privilege and social justice." – The Children's Book Review"5 Stars! Beautifully told. With vivid, intriguing word choices and mesmerizing illustrations. This story is a feast for the eyes!" – Readers’ Favorite Award Review"A narrative that will take young readers to another world…" – Kirkus Book Review"A delightful children's book that is infused with spirituality and culture." – Literary Titan"Children Who Dance in the Rain's importance in connecting ideas of first-world privilege with third-world realities makes for a powerful story… encouraging insights about economics, kindness, privilege, and sharing." – Midwest Book Review Read more

A magical story to showcase the beauty of animals, nature, and our Earth. Each page is beautifully illustrated. You will get lost in the images. See if you can find all the animals! A Best Selling picture book in Children's Exploration Fiction and Children's Environment Books!A young sapling sprouts! It is excited about its new world. It yearns to connect with all things that pass by. Unfortunately, human beings are too busy. So, it patiently waits and watches for a thousand years.Follow its magical journey as humanity evolves and trees begin to slowly disappear.Until... a girl far in the future finds the seeking tree. With your help, she can change the course of history!"The Seeking Tree was both fascinating and eye-opening to read. It is appropriate for children and parents to read since it perfectly explains the value of appreciating and protecting nature, which is currently one of the world's ongoing concerns." A tree waits...and waits...for humans to pay attention in Dee's picture book.In the late 1700s, a sapling wants to enjoy the presence of all other living creatures. But while most animals will stop and sit with the small tree, one group will not: humans. First represented by a group of Native hunters, then by European settlers in covered wagons and Puritan home builders, the humans go about their own business, never stopping to sit with the tree.In a repeated refrain, the seeking tree asks, "Will you sit with us?" An older voice of the forest answers, "They are busy, Young One." Each time, the tree grows more frustrated, until the forest is cleared away, first for farmland, then a city, and finally a futuristic megalopolis. In this last setting, the tree stands alone and is finally approached by a human family in space suits, who sit with the tree and gather its seeds, hopeful for the future.Dee and Oldaker create beautiful painted illustrations; the natural world's beauty is highlighted even as it diminishes in each spread until it is overtaken. The impact of the images, and of the frustration in the seeking tree's repeated text, ably communicates the message of how important it is to commune with the natural world.An accessible call to appreciate nature.!A favorite to teach global warming, historical fiction of the United States, and the impact trees have on our environment. Great story for Earth Day.Pre-K through Grade 3. Homeschool and teachers pick for ages 3 to ages 9. Read more

Aspiring wizards can tune in to the age-old wisdom of Merlin with this dazzling compendium of all things magical, unveiling novelty elements throughout.For any apprentice determined to learn the arcane arts of wizardry, could there be a better teacher than . . . Merlin himself? Originally discovered in 1588, this remarkable text by history's most respected wizard is revealed to the world for the very first time. Lavishly illustrated by four delicate artists, Wizardology's intricate design even conceals a series of hidden symbols that spell out a secret message when their code is deciphered — if the reader is clever enough to find them. Among Wizardology's special features are:— a glittering crystal ball-like jewel on the front cover — a world map showing locations of wizards around the globe— tactile samples of a "fairy flag" with one wish remaining and a phoenix feather to aid in flying charms— booklets explaining the proper use of spells, familiars, and potions— a removable dragon pendant allowing the user to dowse for mythical beasts— a pack of eight removable fortune-tellling cards— a 48-page mini book of divination on the final spread Read more

A boy tries to overcome his fear of the sea in this treasured classic and winner of the Newbery Medal.Maftu was afraid of the sea. It had taken his mother when he was a baby, and it seemed to him that the sea gods sought vengeance at having been cheated of Mafatu. So, though he was the son of the Great Chief of Hikueru, a race of Polynesians who worshipped courage, and he was named Stout Heart, he feared and avoided tha sea, till everyone branded him a coward. When he could no longer bear their taunts and jibes, he determined to conquer that fear or be conquered-- so he went off in his canoe, alone except for his little dog and pet albatross. A storm gave him his first challenge. Then days on a desert island found him resourceful beyond his own expectation. This is the story of how his courage grew and how he finally returned home. This is a legend. It happened many years ago, but even today the people of Hikueru sing this story and tell it over their evening fires. Read more

A #1 New York Times bestseller “This little mouse may well inspire some big dreams.” —Kirkus Reviews “In this picture book based on the space shuttle Endeavor…Meteor is one of the smallest mice, but the most hardworking…the values of being small, useful, solving problems, and working hard—as opposed to being big and strong—will inspire young readers.” —School Library Journal “Inspired by this real-life mouse, Kelly’s first children’s book tells the story of Meteor, a lightly anthropomorphized rodent who turns his tininess into an advantage when an important key gets stuck in a crack between two monitors…textured images and vivid portraits that make it absolutely clear that space travel is a larger-than-life adventure.” —Publishers Weekly A heartwarming picture book tale of the power of the small, from bestselling author and retired NASA astronaut Commander Mark Kelly.Astronaut Mark Kelly flew with “mice-tronauts” on his first spaceflight aboard space shuttle Endeavour in 2001. Mousetronaut tells the story of a small mouse that wants nothing more than to travel to outer space. The little mouse works as hard as the bigger mice to show readiness for the mission . . . and is chosen for the flight! While in space, the astronauts are busy with their mission when disaster strikes—and only the smallest member of the crew can save the day. With lively illustrations by award-winning artist C. F. Payne, Mousetronaut is a charming tale of perseverance, courage, and the importance of the small! Read more

Tumble down the rabbit hole with Alice for a fantastical adventure from Walt Disney Pictures and Tim Burton. Inviting and magical, ALICE IN WONDERLAND is an imaginative new twist on one of the most beloved stories of all time. Alice (Mia Wasikowska), now 19 years old, returns to the whimsical world she first entered as a child and embarks on a journey to discover her true destiny. This Wonderland is a world beyond your imagination and unlike anything you've seen before. The extraordinary characters you've loved come to life richer and more colorful than ever. There's the Mad Hatter (Johnny Depp), the White Queen (Anne Hathaway), the Red Queen (Helena Bonham Carter), the White Rabbit (Michael Sheen) and more. A triumphant cinematic experience -- ALICE IN WONDERLAND is an incredible feast for your eyes, ears and heart that will captivate audiences of all sizes. Read more

Follow the fascinating journey of Captain Nemo and explore the ocean’s wonders, both real and imagined ... or are they?What if a sixteen-year-old assistant traveled aboard the storied Nautilus, the narwhal-shaped submarine of 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea? And what if he were the sole survivor of the ill-fated voyage and went on to relay his adventures to a certain . . . Jules Verne? Find this brave young man’s own account in the lavishly illustrated Oceanology, a tale of an 1866 voyage of discovery that investigates diving bells and shipwrecks; coral reefs and ice canyons; sharks, giant octopi, and luminous sea monsters; underwater volcanoes, and even the legendary island of Atlantis. Read more

Presenting the newest discovery in the series with the Midas touch — a mythical exploration fit for the gods.In the early nineteenth century, an English nobleman embarked on a tour of the sites of ancient Greece. He brought as his guide a primer on Greek myths written by his friend Lady Hestia Evans, a devotee of Lord Byron who had recently taken the same voyage. In the true Romantic spirit, Lady Hestia’s book was not only lavishly illustrated but also boasted many paper crafts and novelties, including a card game featuring the twelve Olympians, an oak-leaf oracle of Zeus, a pop-up Pandora’s box (with hope still inside), a booklet retelling the tale of Odysseus, a piece of the Golden Fleece, an obolos coin to pay the ferryman on the River Styx, and many more flaps, foldouts, and other surprises. The nobleman added his own witty comments and drawings along the way, but seems to have wished for something odd at the Delphic oracle: as the book nears its end, it slowly begins to turn . . .to gold. Now, for lovers of Greek myths and those just discovering their timeless power, this fascinating volume is faithfully reproduced with all its Romantic ambience, clever wit and novelty features intact. Read more

She's living her dream. Too bad it's turned into a nightmare.When Andromeda "Rommy" Cavendish finally found her father, she thought it would be the best summer of her life. Even if her father really is a pirate named Captain Hook.But she quickly finds out how wrong she is.Between Pan's secret and her father's thirst for revenge, Rommy once again finds herself on a quest for answers. But this time, the journey leads Rommy and her friends into the heart of Neverland's terrifying jungles. They must find the only one who has the knowledge that Rommy needs—the Tree Mother who is the source of Neverland’s magic.Unfortunately, she might not be talking.If Rommy survives long enough, she might just find her happily ever after, but if she fails, she'll lose it—permanently.If you enjoy fast-paced fantasy adventures with pirates, feisty heroines, and fairytale twists, you'll love Pan's Secret: A Pirate Princess’s Quest for Answers, second in the middle-grade fantasy adventure trilogy the Pirate Princess Chronicles. Join the quest and pick up your copy today!The Pirate Princess Chronicles (needs to be read in order)Hook’s Daughter: The Untold Tale of a Pirate PrincessPan’s Secret: A Pirate Princess’s Quest for AnswersTinkerbell’s Revenge: A Pirate Princess Saves the Day (coming summer 2019) Read more

Benjamin Wiker leads the reader on a delightful and absorbing journey through the ages, on the trail of the elements of the Periodic Table as we know them today. He introduces the young reader to people like Von Helmont, Boyle, Stahl, Priestly, Cavendish, Lavoisier, and many others, all incredibly diverse in personality and approach, who have laid the groundwork for a search that is still unfolding to this day. The first part of Wiker's witty and solidly instructive presentation is most suitable to middle school age, while the later chapters are designed for ages 12-13 and up, with a final chapter somewhat more advanced.RL9.1Of read-aloud interest ages 9-up Read more

Experience the gripping historical adventure tale of young heroes during the end of the Ice Age, a time of melting glaciers, mass extinctions, and unpredictable dangers. Twelve-year-old Twig has a unique gift–she's a Dreamer, often experiencing spirit dreams that become reality. Yet, her mother's warnings about the reclusive witch-woman, Cobia, have kept her from embracing her powers.As Twig's recurring nightmares foretell a green light threatening to explode from the sky and destroy the world, she faces an important decision. Should she defy her mother and seek out Cobia? Before she can begin her journey, her village is attacked and destroyed by the evil Thornback Raiders, an enemy people. Twig and her companion, Greyhawk escape the slaughter, but they are being chased by raiders who want them dead.Twig and Greyhawk have only one choice now. Venture with these young heroes as they embark upon a quest to find Cobia’s distant cave. Dare to uncover the secrets of the Ice Age, and begin your own historical adventure today. Read more

A long time ago there were dinosaurs. Big dinosaurs and small dinosaurs. Dinosaurs with horns on their heads or spikes down their backs. Dinosaurs with long, long necks and long, long tails. Imaginatively and with a masterful use of color, shape and composition, Bryon Barton brings to life a unique and endearing vision of what the world may have looked like once upon a time. A long time ago there was dinosaurs. Big dinosaurs and small dinosaurs. Dinosaurs with horns on their heads or spikes down their backs. Dinosaurs with long, long necks and long, long tails.Imaginatively and with a masterful use of color, shape and composition, Byron Barton brings to life unique and endearing vision of what the world may have looked like once upona time. Outstanding Science Trade Books for Children 1989 (NSTA/CBC)Science Books and Films -- Editor's ChoiceScience Books and Films -- Best Children's Science Book List Read more

Experience the gripping historical adventure tale of young heroes during the end of the Ice Age, a time of melting glaciers, mass extinctions, and unpredictable dangers. When twelve-year-old Twig begins having recurring nightmares about a green light exploding from the sky and causing devastating environmental changes, she knows she must warn her village elders. But before she can, her village is attacked by the evil Thornback raiders.Twig and her companion, Greyhawk have no choice but to find the strange witch-woman known as Cobia. She’s the only person powerful enough to save them from the raiders and the coming fiery explosion that will devastate their world and force them on a great westward migration to the mysterious Duskland. But finding Cobia is not going to be easy…and they must do it before the Thornback raiders, dire wolves, and giant bears, find them.Venture with these young heroes as they leave behind their ancestral lands and journey to the mysterious Duskland, far from the only home they've ever known.Seize the opportunity to explore this enthralling world of ancient mysteries and young heroes. Dare to uncover the secrets of the Ice Age, and begin your own historical adventure today. Read more

Thirteen-year-old Hattie Campbell records the details of her family's harrowing migration to Oregon in a covered wagon and describes the many challenges, both joyful and tragic, that mark the journey. Read more

Don't miss a moment of the How to Train Your Dragon series, the bestselling, funny, action-packed books that inspired the hit movies! The story begins when Hiccup, his friend Fishlegs, and his cranky dragon Toothless get separated from their class during Boarding-an-Enemy-Ship practice. They accidentally board a prowling Roman galley intent on provoking war. When they rescue a tiny nanodragon, they uncover a plot to steal every dragon on the Isle of Berk! This is just the start to an epic adventure that will have kids laughing from start to finish, and shines with Cressida Cowell's trademark blend of action, humor, heart, and engaging illustrations. Read more

Learn all about life in the desert with this nature-themed installment of DK Books’ new educational fiction series for children aged 7 to 9 years old.Meet the Secret Explorers - a band of brainiac kids from all around the world, here to take young readers on a series of fact-filled fictional adventures! Each with their own specialty, from outer space to dinosaurs, these young globetrotters will teach kids that learning can be fun, encouraging them to become experts in something they love. In this story, Leah the biology explorer and Connor the marine expert set off into the Mexican desert. There, they have to rescue a pack of wolf cubs while avoiding dust storms! The gripping narrative is filled with scientific facts as the explorers navigate the desert and come across different species and habitats.This epic adventure is packed with: - Fun facts and beautiful illustrations of the desert.- Informative diagrams to make science and nature seem simple.- A summary of all the scientific discoveries made throughout the story.- Quizzes, mission notes, and a glossary of definitions making it the perfect classroom read.Let’s explore! The Secret Explorers and the Desert Disappearance by SJ King is the perfect gift for children who are interested in all things nature, with information about plants and animals that will stretch the wildest of imaginations. Never miss a mission! A total of 12 different books, The Secret Explorer series is both educational and imaginative, combining exciting stories with real-life facts.Embark on a space mission adventure in The Secret Explorers and the Comet Collision. Travel back in time to save a dinosaur egg from destruction in The Secret Explorers and the Jurassic Rescue. Take part in a volcano rescue in The Secret Explorers and the Smoking Volcano. Then travel to the arctic for a rescue mission in Secret Explorers and the Missing Scientist.Whatever your preferred topic, there’s a mission waiting for you! Read more

Fray Bartolome de Olmeda was known as "protector of the Indians." This story tells how he accompanied Cortez to Mexico and found his vocation among those that suffered under the new colonization. Written from the prospective of the good padre, Cortez is portrayed as a great leader and zealous Christian, but also as a human man with just as many weaknesses as abilities. Cortez's men are enchanted by Montezuma's city but just as horrified at the human sacrifice upon which it feeds. Although the story is based on true events, it reads like an adventure novel--for it certainly was an adventure. Read more