A New York Times best sellerWhat would you do in the last hour of your life? The story of Welles Crowther, whose actions on 9/11 offer a lasting lesson on character, calling, and courageOne Sunday morning before church, when Welles Crowther was a young boy, his father gave him a red handkerchief for his back pocket. Welles kept it with him that day and just about every day to come; it became a fixture and his signature. A standout athlete growing up in Upper Nyack, New York, Welles was also a volunteer at the local fire department along with his father. He cherished the necessity and the camaraderie, the meaning of the role. Fresh from college, he took a Wall Street job on the 104th floor of the South Tower of the World Trade Center, but the dream of becoming a firefighter with the FDNY remained. When the Twin Towers fell, Welles' parents had no idea what happened to him. In the unbearable days that followed, they came to accept that he would never come home. But the mystery of his final hours persisted. Eight months after the attacks, however, Welles' mother read a news account from several survivors, badly hurt on the 78th floor of the South Tower, who said they and others had been led to safety by a stranger carrying a woman on his back, down nearly 20 flights of stairs. After leading them down, the young man turned around. "I'm going back up" was all he said. The survivors didn't know his name, but despite the smoke and panic, one of them remembered a single detail clearly: The man was wearing a red bandanna. Tom Rinaldi's The Red Bandanna is about a fearless choice, about a crucible of terror and the indomitable spirit to answer it. Examining one decision in the gravest situation, it celebrates the difference one life can make. Read more

The perfect primer for kids ages 8-12, A Child's Introduction to Asian American and Pacific Islander History is packed with remarkable stories, groundbreaking events, and inspirational people, that have made a lasting impact on the history and culture of the United States. The latest entry in the award-winning Child’s Introduction series is an inspirational and essential look at the impact and influence that AAPI peoples have made to the culture of the United States. The book is packed with profiles of dozens of AAPI trailblazers from from all walks of life, including political activist Grace Lee Boggs, Vice President Kamala Harris, actor Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, and dozens of others who have made contributions to music, food, sciences, technology, and more. Kids will learn key terms like "Asian American" and "Pacific Islander," how to pronounce common Asian names,  and the discrimination members of the community have faced (and continue to face). They will be introduced to a wide variety of traditions, from Diwali to Lunar New Year and signature dishes, like poi and pho, all giving greater visibility to Asian Americans for young learners.    Featuring charming illustrations and a lively design, as well as a pull-out poster, A Child's Introduction to Asian American and Pacific Islander History is much-needed addition every home library and classroom.     Read more

Discover the true story of the Twin Towers—how they came to be the tallest buildings in the world and why they were destroyed.When the Twin Towers were built in 1973, they were billed as an architectural wonder. At 1,368 feet, they clocked in as the tallest buildings in the world and changed the New York City skyline dramatically. Offices and corporations moved into the towers—also known as the World Trade Center—and the buildings were seen as the economic hub of the world. But on September 11, 2001, a terrorist attack toppled the towers and changed our nation forever. Discover the whole story of the Twin Towers—from their ambitious construction to their tragic end. Read more

The New York Times-bestselling I Survived series expands to include this thrilling nonfiction exploration of five true stories, from the Titanic to the Henryville Tornadoes.REAL KIDS. REAL DISASTERS.From the author of the New York Times-bestselling I Survived series come five harrowing true stories of survival, featuring real kids in the midst of epic disasters.From a group of students surviving the 9.0 earthquake that set off a historic tsunami in Japan, to a boy nearly frozen on the prairie in 1888, these unforgettable kids lived to tell tales of unimaginable destruction -- and, against all odds, survival.Read their incredible stories:The Children's Blizzard, 1888The Titanic Disaster, 1912The Great Boston Molasses Flood, 1919The Japanese Tsunami, 2011The Henryville Tornado, 2012 Read more

What biography series is complete without a title on the current U.S. President: Barack Obama? The election of an African American president was truly a monumental day in American history. His legacy will live on as a barrier-breaker and a pioneer. Learn all about our 44th President in this fascinating leveled reader. Read more

The events of September 11, 2001, changed the world forever. With compelling photographs and sensitive, age-appropriate text, this Level 3 reader recounts the shocking attacks at the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and in Pennsylvania, explains who was behind the attacks, and celebrates the spirit of hope that emerged through the inspiring story of rescue and recovery and the heroes who raced to save lives.National Geographic Readers' combination of expert-vetted text and fascinating images, along with an engaging approach to reading, has proved to be a winning formula with kids, parents, and educators. Level 3 text provides accessible, yet wide-ranging information for fluent readers. Each reader includes text written by an experienced, skilled children's books author, a photo glossary, and interactive features in which kids get to reinforce what they've learned in the book. Read more

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Explore the history of Pearl Harbor—the attack that brought America into World War 2On December 7, 1941, the Japanese military launched a surprise attack against the Pearl Harbor naval base in Oahu, Hawaii. The next day, President Roosevelt declared war and America entered into World War 2. Go on a suspenseful journey with this colorfully illustrated story about World War 2 for kids. It takes you through all the events that led up to the attack on Pearl Harbor, the attack itself, and the impact it had on the future of the war.This book about Pearl Harbor and World War 2 for kids includes:A visual timeline—Take a look at all the important details of the Pearl Harbor attack with a timeline marking the major milestones.Core curriculum—Learn the Who, What, Where, When, Why, and How of Pearl Harbor, and take a quick quiz to test your knowledge after you finish this book about World War 2 for kids.Lasting change—Explore thought-provoking questions that help you better understand how the events at Pearl Harbor affected the world you live in today.Learn about "the day that will live in infamy" with this engaging book about World War 2 for kids. Read more

This New York Times bestseller recounts the true story of the touching gift bestowed on the US by the Maasai people in the wake of the September 11 attacks.In June of 2002, a mere nine months since the September 11 attacks, a very unusual ceremony begins in a far-flung village in western Kenya. An American diplomat is surrounded by hundreds of Maasai people. A gift is about to be bestowed upon the American men, women, and children, and he is there to accept it. The gift is as unexpected as it is extraordinary.Hearts are raw as these legendary Maasai warriors offer their gift to a grieving people half a world away. Word of the gift will travel newswires around the globe, and for the heartsick American nation, the gift of fourteen cows emerges from the choking dust and darkness as a soft light of hope―and friendship.With stunning paintings from Thomas Gonzalez, master storyteller Carmen Agra Deedy (in collaboration with Naiyomah) hits all the right notes in this elegant story of generosity that crosses boundaries, nations, and cultures. Read more

This pulse-pounding account of disaster and survival at sea follows the HMS Bounty, whose fateful course through Superstorm Sandy would lead to one of the most heroic Coast Guard rescue missions ever...On October 23, 2012, with Superstorm Sandy fast approaching, Captain Robin Walbridge made the fateful decision to sail the HMS Bounty from New London, Connecticut to St. Petersburg, Florida, believing the wooden ship, a replica of the original, famous Bounty, would fare better at sea than at port. He told the crew that anyone who did not want to come on the voyage could leave the ship and there would be no hard feelings. No one took the captain up on his offer, and this decision would have fatal consequences.Four days into the voyage, Superstorm Sandy made an almost direct hit on the Bounty—sending the crew tumbling into the ocean filled with crashing thirty-foot waves. Some were swept far from the ship, others found themselves tangled in the rigging, while others were trapped below the surface by the masts and spreaders. What ensued was one of the most complex, dangerous, and massive Coast Guard rescue missions in history.New York Times bestselling author Michael J. Tougias adapts his histories of real life stories for young readers in his True Rescue Series, capturing the heroism and humanity of people on life-saving missions during maritime disasters.More Thrilling True Rescue Books:The Finest Hours (Young Readers Edition)A Storm Too Soon (Young Readers Edition)Into the Blizzard (Young Readers Edition)Attacked at Sea (Young Readers Edition)In Harm's Way (Young Readers Edition) Read more

A deeply moving story about community and resilience, from the point-of-view of the Callery pear tree that survived the attacks on September 11, from Eisner Award-nominated author-illustrator Sean Rubin.* "A resonant, beautifully rendered testament to life and renewal." ―Kirkus, starred reviewIn the 1970s, nestled between the newly completed Twin Towers in New York City, a Callery pear tree was planted. Over the years, the tree provided shade for people looking for a place to rest and a home for birds, along with the first blooms of spring. On September 11, 2001, everything changed. The tree’s home was destroyed, and it was buried under the rubble. But a month after tragedy struck, a shocking discovery was made at Ground Zero: the tree had survived. Dubbed the “Survivor Tree,” it was moved to the Bronx to recover. And in the thoughtful care of the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation, the Callery pear was nursed back to health. Almost a decade later, the Survivor Tree returned home and was planted in the 9/11 Memorial to provide beauty and comfort…and also hope. This is the story of that tree―and of a nation in recovery. Told from the tree’s perspective, This Very Tree is a touching tribute to first responders, the resilience of America, and the restorative power of community. Read more

The true story of how a small Seder dinner on the campaign trail inspired Barack Obama to bring the tradition into the White House and host the first ever Presidential Passover celebration.In 1800, President John Adams held the first formal Christmas dinner atthe newly built White House. In 1878, President Rutherford B. Hayesobserved Easter with a public “Egg Roll." But it wasn’t until 2009 that a US president officially celebrated Passover.A year earlier, on the campaign trail, three staffers had to get creative in order to host a Seder dinner. They gathered in a hotel basement, joined by candidate Barack Obama. They made the most of their surroundings and modest dinner, shared the stories and rituals of the holiday, and found connections between their communities. They made a toast and a promise to a future, grander celebration: next year in the White House.For the first time, this story is told for picture book readers by award-winning author Richard Michelson and lauded illustrator EB Lewis in this special partnership with PJ Library. Read more

Dive into the trends, fashion, technology, and inventions of the 1990s with this super cool Level 2 Ready-to-Read full of fun facts, illustrations, and interactive backmatter!In the 1990s, grunge music and clothing were all the rage, lunchboxes held Crystal Pepsi and Lunchables, and a strange thing called the internet was just about to take over the world. Kids will love learning about all things 90s, from the Beanie Babies craze to must-see preschool shows like Barney & Friends and Teletubbies! Lighthearted illustrations, photographs of the fashion and fads, and approachable language introduce young readers to all this and more hallmarks of the fly decade. Read more

EXPLAINING THE DUST BOWL TO KIDSA compelling, kid-friendly, and visually appealing erosion story. – Kirkus reviewWhen the dust storms of the 1930s threatened to destroy U.S. farming and agriculture, Hugh Bennett knew what to do. For decades, he had studied the soils in every state, creating maps showing soil composition nationwide. He knew what should be grown in each area, and how to manage the land to conserve the soil. He knew what to do for weathering and erosion.To do that, he needed the government’s help. But how do you convince politicians that the soil needs help?Hugh Bennett knew what to do. He waited for the wind.This is the exciting story of a soil scientist confronting politicians to encourage them to pass a law to protect the land, the soil. When the U.S. Congress passed a law establishing the Soil Conservation Service, it was the first government agency in the world dedicated to protecting the land, to protecting the Earth.Reading this amazing story of an unchronicled early environmentalist, Hugh Bennett, the founder of the NRCS (Natural Resources Conservation Service).MOMENTS IN SCIENCE SERIESThis exciting series focuses on small moments in science that made a difference.BURN: Michael Faraday’s CandleCLANG! Ernst Chladni’s Sound Experiments (2019 NSTA Outstanding Science Trade Book)POLLEN: Darwin’s 130 Year Prediction (Junior Library Guild selection, Starred Kirkus Review. 2020 NSTA Outstanding Science Trade Book; 2020 Eureka! Nonfiction Honor)ECLIPSE: How the 1919 Eclipse Proved Einstein’s Theory of General RelativityEROSION: How Hugh Bennett saved America’s Soil and Ended the Dust BowlA.I. : How Artificial Intelligence Defeated World Champion Lee SedolFEVER: How Tu Youyou Adapted Traditional Chinese Medicine to Find a Cure for MalariaAQUARIUM: How Jeannette Power Invented Aquariums to Observe Marine LifeMAGNET: How William Gilbert Discovered that Earth is a Great Magnet Read more

From former Chief Official White House Photographer Pete Souza comes a book for young readers that highlights Barack Obama's historic presidency and the qualities and actions that make him so beloved. Pete Souza served as Chief Official White House Photographer for President Obama's full two terms. He was with the President during more crucial moments than anyone else - and he photographed them all, capturing scenes both classified and candid. Throughout his historic presidency, Obama engaged with young people as often as he could, encouraging them to be their best and do their best and to always "dream big dreams." In this timeless and timely keepsake volume that features over seventy-five full-color photographs, Souza shows the qualities of President Obama that make him both a great leader and an extraordinary man. With behind-the-scenes anecdotes of some iconic photos alongside photos with his family, colleagues, and other world leaders, Souza tells the story of a president who made history and still made time to engage with even the youngest citizens of the country he served. By the author of Obama: An Intimate Portrait, the definitive visual biography of Barack Obama's presidency, Dream Big Dreams was created especially for young readers and not only provides a beautiful portrait of a president but shows the true spirit of the man. Read more

Four airplanes crashed; thousands of people died; and millions more wept. The impact of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, sent shock waves around the world. Through powerful narrative storytelling, follow the tales of people who experienced the tragedy firsthand. Perfect for Common Core studies of narrative nonfiction and exploring multiple accounts of an event. Read more

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Ten true stories of real-life heroes during Hurricane Katrina!Donald Colletti and Jimmy Pitre are forced to flee their flooded houses as Hurricane Katrina devastates their beloved city of New Orleans. But rather than seek shelter, the two brave men put their lives on the line to rescue hundreds of their neighbors.As Coast Guard helicopter 6514 is buffeted by severe winds, rescue swimmer Laurence Nettles is lowered into the dangerous waters with one goal in mind -- save the lives of a family with an infant who are stranded in a damaged boat.Cut off from outside help for days, the valiant medical staff at Lindy Boggs Medical Center -- which is cut off by rising floodwaters and cripped by a power failure -- fight desperately to keep more than 100 patients alive.These and other real-life heroes risked their lives to save others during Hurricane Katrina, the most catastrophic natural disaster in United States history. You will never forget their courageous true stories. Read more

One of School Library Journal's Best Nonfiction Books of 2011One of Horn Book's Best Nonfiction Books of 2011 On the ten year anniversary of the September 11 tragedy, a straightforward and sensitive book for a generation of readers too young to remember that terrible day.The events of September 11, 2001 changed the world forever. In the fourth installment of the Actual Times series, Don Brown narrates the events of the day in a way that is both accessible and understandable for young readers. Straightforward and honest, this account moves chronologically through the morning, from the terrorist plane hijackings to the crashes at the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and Pennsylvania; from the rescue operations at the WTC site in New York City to the collapse of the buildings. Vivid watercolor illustrations capture the emotion and pathos of the tragedy making this an important book about an unforgettable day in American history. Read more

It's late August 2005, and a storm is brewing in the Gulf Coast. When it strikes, Hurricane Katrina will be one of the deadliest and most destructive storms in U.S. history especially for the residents of New Orleans, Louisiana, and Biloxi, Mississippi. Will you: Flee to the New Orleans Super Dome as floodwaters surge through the city? Try to save your home along the floodwalls near Lake Pontchartrain? Attempt to ride out the storm at your home in Biloxi, Mississippi? Everything in this book happened to real people. And YOU CHOOSE what you do next. The choices you make could lead you to survival or to death. Read more