Diary of a Wimpy Kid #19: Hot Mess
The pressure is building for Greg Heffley, who discovers that when you mix heaps of family, a tiny beach house, and sweltering heat, it's a recipe for disaster. Speaking of recipes - the secret ingredients behind Gramma's famous meatballs have been closely guarded for years. Can Greg unpack all of his family's mysteries before their vacation is over?
Speak Your Heart
Coco and Bear have their first argument in this heartwarming picture book about friendship, communication, and fun in the snow from the creator of Ruby's Tools for Making Friends and the New York Times bestseller Share Some Kindness, Bring Some Light. Coco and Bear can't wait to build a snow castle with their friends Baby Deer and Quilber. But as construction begins, Coco starts to turn their castle into a fort and gets too carried away to listen to Bear when he tries to share his ideas. At last, sweet Bear loses his temper and shouts: "LISTEN TO ME, COCO!" Frustrated and hurt, Coco stomps off to build on her own. But after talking with Baby Deer and Quilber, Coco and Bear soon realize they both were in the wrong. They reunite and forgive each other. But to work together, they'll have to find a new way to listen and take turns speaking what's in their hearts.
Twelve Classics of Christmas
Count down to the holidays with this collection of twelve of the most famous Christmas stories in this cozy anthology. Usher in the holidays with this collection of twelve classic short stories and poems from renowned authors such as Louisa May Alcott, F. Scott Fitzgerald, the Brothers Grimm, and Charles Dickens. From "A Visit from St. Nicholas" to "The Gift of the Magi," many of these classics full of hope, humor, and holiday magic have been staples of the season for generations. With each one brief enough to be read in one sitting, these tales from Christmases past are the perfect way to welcome the holiday. This cozy collection includes: "A Kidnapped Santa Claus" by L. Frank Baum "The Elves and the Shoemaker" by Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm "The Gift of the Magi" by O. Henry "Tilly's Christmas" by Louisa May Alcott "Squeaky and the Scare Box" by Georgene Faulkner "Papa Panov's Christmas Special" by Ruben Saillens, translated by Leo Tolstoy "The Christmas Masquerade" by Mary E. Wilkins Freeman "A Christmas Inspiration" by L. M. Montgomery "A Luckless Santa Claus" by F. Scott Fitzgerald "The Legend of the Babouscka" by Anonymous "The Story of the Goblins Who Stole a Sexton" by Charles Dickens "A Visit from St. Nicholas" by Clement C. Moore
The Polar Express: Christmas Countdown Deluxe Gift Set
Celebrate the holidays with The Polar Express: Christmas Countdown Deluxe Gift Set, a timeless keepsake designed to bring families together. This special boxed set transforms the cherished, award-winning story into an interactive advent tradition that unfolds over 24 days of shared activities and festive fun. More than just a book, this is a complete holiday experience.Inside the beautifully designed slipcase, you will discover: - The classic hardcover storybook, featuring Chris Van Allsburg's iconic illustrations.- A beautiful advent calendar - A sturdy, pop-out 3-D Christmas tree to decorate day by day- 24 decorative press-out ornaments Each ornament reveals a unique family activity, from writing letters to Santa to making hot cocoa and watching the beloved Polar Express movie together. This deluxe keepsake gift set will help you create lasting memories with The Polar Express and a tradition your family will return to for years to come.
But I Love My Mom, Too!
Everyone in Annie's class is buzzing about the big Mother's Day card contest. The winner gets $25, and her friends are already dreaming about what they'll buy. But Annie keeps quiet because in her family, Mother's Day cards aren't a thing.Still, Annie loves her mom deeply. She loves how she smells like dandelion tea and oatmeal cookies, the silly voices she uses at story time, and how she believes the best gifts are the ones given "just because."As the contest deadline nears, Annie is torn between following her heart and following the rules. Can she still find a way to show her love and maybe even enter the contest?With heart, humor, and a whole lot of courage, Annie discovers that love isn't about the prize, it's about the why.This tender story is the fourth in the Annie the Porcupine series, charming tales that celebrate inclusion, what family truly means, and the everyday ways we say "I love you."
The Owl Who Came for Christmas
A heart-warming Christmas tale - inspired by an amazing true animal story. Christmas is coming, and the decorations are going up...But one family is about to discover an unexpected visitor snuggled up in their Christmas tree...A little owl called Rosie! The Owl Who Came for Christmas is the perfect gift for young animal lovers - and those who love incredible true animal stories. A read-aloud treat from John Hay and Garry Parsons, the illustrator of the bestselling Dinosaur That Pooped series. With facts about owls and the real events behind the story!
Maya Inside
Maya went into her box when a classmate teased her, and again when another hurt her feelings. Now she's there most of the time. It's safe and quiet and best of all it can be anything she wants it to be. She brings it on bike rides and to school, and while kids used to notice it, now they barely see her at all. But Maya can't help but wonder if there might be something she's missing. Yes, it's noisy and scary out there, but it's also exciting and fun. Finally, Maya bravely decides to step out into the sunshine and find her place in the world--outside her box.
The Twelve Days of Christmas
On the first day of Christmas, my true love gave to me...an Octopus on a coral reef? While it was certainly an unexpected surprises, I slipped on my snorkel and mask to see what would come on the next tide!This reimagining of the classic "Twelve Days of Christmas" takes you underwater to the magical world of a reef in the Caribbean. Here the fish are as brightly coloured as the lights on your Christmas tree! And you may spot a certain, special seasonal visitor!From the creator of "Geckos in the Garden", "Ess-Car-Go!" and the 2024 CIBA Little Peeps Grand Prize winning "Island Moon", comes another magical story filled with colour and life and giggles for the whole family!
Rosie the Red Bee
Rosie is a bumblebee. But Rosie isn't like other bees-she's RED!Being different from all the other bees around her is challenging and Rosie comes up with lots of unique ways to try and fit in but nothing she does works.Tired of trying all the effort and the other bees' teasing, Rosie decides there's only one thing left to do: run away. On her adventure she meets a wise older bee who offers her some advice. But will it be enough to solve her problem?Rosie the Red Bee will appeal to young readers ages 3-7.
Twelve Classics of Christmas
Count down to the holidays with this collection of twelve of the most famous Christmas stories in this cozy anthology. Usher in the holidays with this collection of twelve classic short stories and poems from renowned authors such as Louisa May Alcott, F. Scott Fitzgerald, the Brothers Grimm, and Charles Dickens. From "A Visit from St. Nicholas" to "The Gift of the Magi," many of these classics full of hope, humor, and holiday magic have been staples of the season for generations. With each one brief enough to be read in one sitting, these tales from Christmases past are the perfect way to welcome the holiday. This cozy collection includes: "A Kidnapped Santa Claus" by L. Frank Baum "The Elves and the Shoemaker" by Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm "The Gift of the Magi" by O. Henry "Tilly's Christmas" by Louisa May Alcott "Squeaky and the Scare Box" by Georgene Faulkner "Papa Panov's Christmas Special" by Ruben Saillens, translated by Leo Tolstoy "The Christmas Masquerade" by Mary E. Wilkins Freeman "A Christmas Inspiration" by L. M. Montgomery "A Luckless Santa Claus" by F. Scott Fitzgerald "The Legend of the Babouscka" by Anonymous "The Story of the Goblins Who Stole a Sexton" by Charles Dickens "A Visit from St. Nicholas" by Clement C. Moore
But I Love My Mom, Too!
Everyone in Annie's class is buzzing about the big Mother's Day card contest. The winner gets $25, and her friends are already dreaming about what they'll buy. But Annie keeps quiet because in her family, Mother's Day cards aren't a thing.Still, Annie loves her mom deeply. She loves how she smells like dandelion tea and oatmeal cookies, the silly voices she uses at story time, and how she believes the best gifts are the ones given "just because."As the contest deadline nears, Annie is torn between following her heart and following the rules. Can she still find a way to show her love and maybe even enter the contest?With heart, humor, and a whole lot of courage, Annie discovers that love isn't about the prize, it's about the why.This tender story is the fourth in the Annie the Porcupine series, charming tales that celebrate inclusion, what family truly means, and the everyday ways we say "I love you."
'Twas the Night Before Christmas
In a world where little fish dream of plankton cakes and sea glass, the season isn't complete without a visit from jolly old Santa Claws himself! Making the rounds with magical gifts for all the good little creatures of the reef, Santa Claws is destined to become the newest holiday legend!Taking place on a reef in the warm waters of the Caribbean, you and your children will delight in the bright whimsical illustrations. From the creator of "Geckos in the Garden", "Ess-Car-Go!" and the 2024 CIBA Little Peeps Grand Prize winning "Island Moon", comes another magical story filled with colour and life and giggles for the whole family!
Timmie
Part of a growing collection of stories about the life lessons sport can teach us.When Timmie stumbles across a nighttime cricket game, he's keen to join in. He gives it a go, but it's not easy to keep up and even harder to say why.Inspired by the experiences of my good friend and Australian Paralympian Jaryd Clifford, this story explores the courage it takes to ask for help.With support from his new teammates, Timmie learns that asking for help isn't a weakness, it's a brave step toward achieving your best.
You Matter, Luma
A little bunny discovers that even the smallest voice can make a world of difference.Does one small bunny really matter in a great big world? Luma feels invisible in her bustling forest-too quiet, too unsure, too small to make a difference. But when a simple act of kindness sets her on an unexpected journey, she uncovers a powerful truth: her voice has value, her feelings have meaning, and her presence makes an impact.Set in The Matteringverse(TM)--a magical world where every creature's light matters--You Matter, Luma is a tender and beautifully illustrated story that helps children understand that their worth isn't something they earn; it's something they already have. Drawing from the science of emotional development and mattering, John R. Miles gently guides readers to see that courage, compassion, and connection begin with believing you matter.Perfect for fans of The Rabbit Listened, The Invisible String, and What Do You Do With an Idea?--as well as beloved modern classics like I Am Enough, Be Kind, and All Because You Matter--this timeless story opens the door to meaningful conversations about self-worth, belonging, and kindness at home, in classrooms, and beyond."Your mattering isn't measured by how loud you are or how fast you run. It lives in your heart and shines through what you do with love."You Matter, Luma is the first book in the You Matter series, a collection of emotionally rich adventures within The Matteringverse(TM) that grow with children and help them navigate life with confidence, care, and courage.
Sophie Shares the Stars
Sophie and her adoptive father, whom she calls "My Michael," are family. Michael is a good singer, not a great cook (though Sophie likes the "burned-y bits") and he takes care of Sophie when she's sick by giving her crackers and ginger ale. Sophie might have put blue paint in the blender and left the lid off, and drawn pictures on their apartment door...but Michael says she's his universe. When Michael gets sick, square crackers and ginger ale don't help. Sophie gives Michael the Big Dipper for his wall, and that makes him smile. Even though Michael doesn't look sick, Sophie knows the truth. And just like he's there for her, she'll be there for him no matter what. Praise for Heather Smith: ★ "A beautifully rendered tale of loss, love, grief, and gentle healing."--Kirkus Reviews, starred review for The Phone Booth in Mr. Hirota's Garden ★ "A moving tale...offers comfort and peace to those left behind."--Booklist, starred review for The Phone Booth in Mr. Hirota's Garden ★ "An affecting, well-rendered resource for talking about catastrophes and grief both personal and communal."--Publisher Weekly, starred review for The Phone Booth in Mr. Hirota's Garden ★ "Smith spins a quietly moving narrative...The graceful way in which this book handles a sensitive and serious subject makes it a first purchase for most picture book collections."--School Library Journal, starred review for The Phone Booth in Mr. Hirota's Garden ★"Compassionately explores how grief affects children and adults alike and how to forgive the perfectly imperfect people who love us."--Booklist, starred review for The Boy, the Cloud and the Very Tall Tale
Rosie the Red Bee
Rosie is a bumblebee. But Rosie isn't like other bees-she's RED!Being different from all the other bees around her is challenging and Rosie comes up with lots of unique ways to try and fit in but nothing she does works.Tired of trying all the effort and the other bees' teasing, Rosie decides there's only one thing left to do: run away. On her adventure she meets a wise older bee who offers her some advice. But will it be enough to solve her problem?Rosie the Red Bee will appeal to young readers ages 3-7.
The Nutcracker
E.T.A. Hoffmann's whimsical novella, originally titled Nutcracker and Mouse King and the inspiration behind Tchaikovsky's ballet, now has a festive new look in this beautiful edition. When Maria is given a nutcracker by her mysterious Godfather Drosselmeier, it seems like an ordinary gift. But as the clock strikes midnight on Christmas Eve, she finds her nutcracker embroiled in a fight with a sinister Mouse King--no ordinary toy after all, but a cursed hero. Together, they embark on a fantastical journey, encountering a host of charming characters. Filled with Christmas magic and festive scenes full of presents, sugarplums, and gingerbread, this imaginative classic has been a part of annual holiday celebrations for generations.
Don't Tell My Mom That I Love Her
Enter Maggie-adorably, exhaustingly, and sarcastically twelve-a modern-day Margaret (a l? Judy Blume) whose private diary is her daily outlet for (over)analyzing her "miserable" and "confusing" life. In entries that vary as wildly as her mood swings, Maggie beautifully articulates (and screams from the rooftops) the bitter day-to-day battles of (pre-) adolescence and all the things her parents, teachers, and peers shockingly do not understand. With an introspective and sometimes ingenious mind, she vents about the endless misunderstandings and mishaps she experiences daily at school-and at home with her overwhelmed parents-and the generally terrible unfairness of being twelve.Obsessively self-reflective and painfully inquisitive, Maggie resembles a young Carrie Bradshaw-without the sophistication and designer shoe collection-as she tries to find the answers in her angst and immerses herself in her own "tweenage" world, convincing herself she doesn't care what her mother thinks, while ultimately realizing just how intrinsically connected and deeply intertwined they are. Through discovering their profound bond, mother and daughter heal and grow up together. With a backdrop of the movies, musicals, beloved characters, and sounds of the author's own adolescence, this heartwarming story will entertain and educate daughters and moms alike.
The Boss of Me
From the moment of birth the space between child and parent increases. Part of the work of a child is to establish his/her own identity. All children pass through the stage of developing their own autonomy. The phrase "you are not the boss of me" has appeared in novels, movies, television programs and from the mouths of our own babes. Sometimes the establishment of autonomy has results that are far from satisfactory but hopefully children learn some valuable life lessons and parents learn to let go.
The Night Before Christmas
In this adaptation of Clement C. Moore's beloved Christmas poem, a young Black girl wakes up on Christmas Eve to find Santa placing gifts for her family underneath the tree, and to her delight, Santa looks just like her. Like my uncle, my auntie, my father, and mother My cousins, and grandparents, sister, and brother He encompassed us all, the man by the tree. Who'd imagine that Santa could look just like me? In this retelling of the holiday classic about jolly old St. Nicholas, a young Black girl patiently waits for Christmas morning with her family when, to her surprise, she chances upon Santa, with his red suit, hot-cocoa-colored cheeks, and snowy white beard.
Sounds Like...Christmas!
Press the 5 squishy sound buttons and join the holiday friends as they get ready for Christmas at the North Pole in this fun holiday sound storybook! It's almost Christmas and the North Pole is busy! Sounds Like . . . Christmas! is a brightly illustrated sound book with 5 adorable squishy buttons to press and hear their festive sounds and music. Kids can press the snowman, elf, reindeer, penguin, and Santa buttons in each scene to bring the busy North Pole to life. Perfect for Christmas, kids will love the rhyming text and adorable illustrations in this hands-on holiday board book.
The Christmas Train
The night before Christmas is here once again. The North Pole is waiting, let's climb on the train.The Christmas Train follows the journey of a brother and sister as they journey towards Santa's home in the North Pole. As they travel, they experience all of the magic Christmas has to offer, from candy cane trees to gingerbread houses and everything in between!
Amanda Commander
When Amanda and her friends find out Eve has the exact same yellow dress as Amanda and is planning to wear it to the School Disco, Amanda needs to find a way to change Eve's mind It's OPERATION DISCO DRESS!Even though Amanda wants to stand out, she learns encouraging others and standing by your friends is more important.
Jingle Bells
The beloved Christmas song "Jingle Bells" gets a vibrant and exciting twist in this keepsake picture book edition that captures all the festive joy of the holiday season! Jingle bells, jingle bells, Jingle all the way. Oh! what fun it is to ride In a one-horse open sleigh. Hey! These familiar lines from the classic Christmas song take on a new meaning as two elves race sleighs through the snow-covered North Pole--all while Santa Claus prepares for his big trip! This gorgeous picture book is perfect for Christmas collections.
Amanda Commander
Amanda and her two best friends, Lucia and Mai, are the Dolphin Squad. They live by the beach, hang out in HQ and solve all sort of problems. Amanda Commander is nearly nine and there is nothing she loves more than hanging out with her two best friends at HQ, making all sorts of plans and solving all kinds of problems.Amanda Commander is kind, loyal and a natural-born leader. But even school can be a battlefield sometimes, so sometimes Amanda and her Squad need a plan just to survive.When Amanda returns to school after having a sick day, she finds fitting back into the friendship group tricker than she imagined. Amanda makes a plan, with the help of the Dolphin Squad, to go out of their way and include anyone. But when Eve is sick and has a few days off school, how will Amanda ensure Eve doesnt have a blues-day back at school just like she did? Its OPERATION WELCOME BACK! Amanda tries everything to make Eve feel included, even when it means being left out herself. AMANDA COMMANDER - THE BLUES-DAY TUESDAY is the fourth book in a Junior Fiction series promoting kindness, loyalty and friendship.
Kadara's Brave Voice
Kadara's Brave Voice is a heartfelt picture book about encouragement, confidence, and belonging. Through gentle storytelling and rich illustrations, it reminds children that their voices, however they sound, are valuable and worthy of being heard.Perfect for families, classrooms, and libraries, this book offers a supportive way to open conversations about patience, self-belief, and the many ways children can express themselves. Both uplifting and practical, it's a resource for anyone helping children grow into their own brave voices.
Merry Christmas, My Little Cuddle Bug
Celebrate Christmas with your little cuddle bug in this sweet holiday board book featuring the adorable Cuddle Bug from the bestselling board book You're My Little Cuddle Bug. National Bestselling Series--More Than 4.1 Million Books Sold!Merry Christmas, My Little Cuddle Bug is an adorable board book to share with your little one at Christmastime. The rhyming text runs alongside Natalie Marshall's adorable and festive illustrations and raised elements with corresponding cut-outs to engage children. Join Cuddle Bug in this newest addition to the You're My Little series as she and her family get ready for Christmas in this board book based on the bestselling title You're My Little Cuddle Bug. Get to know the You're My Little series from Silver Dolphin Books! From Valentine's Day to Christmas Day and every day in between, the bestselling You're My Little series is cute as can be--and fun too! Pages from these delightful books feature adorable illustrations by Natalie Marshall, as well as shaped cut-outs, raised elements, or even stickers. Perfect for cuddling up with your little one, these sweet rhyming stories celebrate a parent's love for their child.
The Magic of a Small Town Christmas
From Inside Edition's national correspondent and author of The True Gifts of Christmas Megan Alexander comes a sweet picture book celebrating the joys, wonders, and traditions of a small-town Christmas. In the town of Heartbeat Falls, where skies are crystal clear, the magic of Christmas is celebrated in many different ways: from picking the perfect tree to decorating it with glittering ornaments; from ice skating to eating yummy gingerbread cookies; from hanging handmade stockings to sharing a home-cooked meal. Here, the residents know the beauty of a small town doesn't come from its size, but from the love shared by its people, shining brightly in their eyes. This heartwarming picture book is an ode to Christmas in the spirit of author Megan Alexander's show, Small Town Christmas.
Sidewalk Chalk
PLINK. PLUNK. CLATTER. CLUNK!Imaginations soar when a group of neighborhood children scritch, scribble and scrawl in a rainbow of colors, crafting lovely works of art. But one little girl watches from afar, unsure how to contribute her own colorful creations. After gathering her courage, she misses the chance to grab the last piece, until a familiar face shows her how to draw with nature's chalk - a soft piece of rock. But then raindrops begin to fall and time is cut short, causing the lovely colors to fade into memories. In the morning, a new day begins, and the girl leads the way in welcoming a new friend to this creative community. SIDEWALK CHALK combines spare text with gorgeous illustrations in a story that is bound to delight readers of all ages. Using soft, but vibrant colors, the illustrations complement themes of inclusion, friendship, and determination. It's a perfect fit for elementary art teachers, librarians, community centers, and snuggle times at home.
Serious Sas and Messy Magda
Sas and Magda are like chalk and cheese.Sas is serious and always tidy.Her mum, Magda, is a colourful, messy whirlwind who loves to have fun.When "Bring Your Mum" Day arrives, Sas worries Magda will turn it upside down.But what if Magda's mayhem is exactly what the day needs?
Mani Semilla Finds Her Quetzal Voice
Best of the Year: School Library Journal -Booklist - New York Public Library - Social Justice Books For fans of Donna Barba Higuera's Lupe Wong Won't Dance and Aida Salazar's The Moon Within comes Mani Semilla Finds Her Quetzal Voice comes a contemporary middle grade novel full of spunk and activist heart -- NOW IN PAPERBACK! Life sucks when you're twelve. You're not a little kid, but you're also not an adult, and all the grown-ups in your life talk about your body the minute it starts getting a shape. And what sucks even more than being a Chinese-Filipino-American-Guatemalan who can't speak any ancestral language well? When almost every other girl in school has already gotten her period except for you and your two besties. Manuela "Mani" Semilla wants two things: To get her period, and to thwart her mom's plan of taking her to Guatemala on her thirteenth birthday. If her mom's always going on about how dangerous it is in Guatemala, and how much she sacrificed to come to this country, then why should Mani even want to visit? But one day, up in the attic, she finds secret letters between her mom and her T穩a Beatriz, who, according to family lore, died in a bus crash before Mani was born. But the letters reveal a different story. Why did her family really leave Guatemala? What will Mani learn about herself along the way? And how can the letters help her to stand up against the culture of harassment at her own school? NOW AVAILABLE IN SPANISH! P R A I S E "Anna Lapera expertly voices a young girl's middle school trials, but with a voice so unique and heartfelt you will be cringing one moment and cheering the next. She weaves a distinctive story filled with humor, family heartache, and secrets while a young girl releases the fear of her voice and grasps its power." --Newbery Medalist Donna Barba Higuera ★ "With strong writing, frank conversations about periods, anatomy, and bodily autonomy, plus dynamic characters, this solidly upper middle grade/lower YA story will empower readers, affirm their own middle school experiences, and show that people should be held accountable for the many daily offenses girls and women are subjected to. A powerful look at collective action that shows when we raise our voices together, we don't just make noise--we sing. Not to be missed." --School Library Journal (starred) ★ "Lapera's debut novel focuses on the disparities against women, shedding light on the femicides occurring in other countries. Readers will root for Mani as she develops the courage to advocate for herself and other girls, even when it's frightening. A great introduction for middle-schoolers and tween readers on topics such as consent and the #MeToo movement." --Booklist (starred) "Using perceptive prose, debut author Lapera approaches Guatemala's fraught history with care and respect, and lovingly spotlights the tension felt in the relationship between a protective mother and the daughter who seeks independence from her." --Publishers Weekly "A poignant, feminist coming-of-age story."--Kirkus "Lapera's writing shines in the rendering of connection and levity with friends and family. There are laugh-out-loud moments, from the bizarre to the everyday. There is inspiration and hope ... Amid the frankness about challenging topics, readers will also encounter warmth and a pervading sense of capability and inner strength in finding their own voices." --Horn Book "This impressive debut will make you laugh, cheer, and stand up on the nearest table to protest injustice, probably all before you finish chapter one." --LitHub "A beautifully told, poignant story about courage and the power of tradition. Man穩's newly discovered voice will inspire all of us to find our own way to speak out against oppression." --Award-winning author Francisco X. Stork
Still Sal
"Filled with emotionally complex characters and riveting, poignant moments, along with plenty of humor, Still Sal is not to be missed." --BookPage (starred review)Kirkus Best Middle Grade Books of 2024!A stand-alone companion to two-time Newbery Honor author Kevin Henkes's award-winning and acclaimed The Year of Billy Miller. With themes of family, friendship, and resilience, this very funny school story focuses on Billy's little sister, Sal, and her first day of school. For fans of Ramona, Ivy + Bean, and The Penderwicks. Sal has been looking forward to first grade for a long time. But her excitement quickly turns to disappointment when she learns that her best friend, Griff, is in the other first-grade classroom and has the most popular teacher. Then Sal's name is spelled wrong on her name tag, she trips in front of the cool fifth graders, and her self-portrait doesn't turn out the way she wanted it to. In fact, everything about school is an absolute disaster. Poor Sal!Luckily for Sal, she has understanding parents, a terrific new teacher, and empathetic friends who remind her that it takes time to adjust to change. And sure enough, after a few days, Sal feels like herself again.Still Sal highlights themes of family, friendship, social and emotional growth, resilience, and adapting to change. The fourth stand-alone book in the Miller Family sequence includes black-and-white illustrations by Caldecott Medal winner Kevin Henkes on almost every page and is an excellent choice for early elementary grades, for readers ready for a short novel, and for family and classroom sharing.
Amanda Commander
Amanda and her two best friends, Lucia and Mai, are the Dolphin Squad. They live by the beach, hang out in HQ and solve all sort of problems. Amanda Commander is nearly nine and there is nothing she loves more than hanging out with her two best friends at HQ, making all sorts of plans and solving all kinds of problems. Amanda Commander is kind, loyal and a natural-born leader. But even school can be a battlefield sometimes, so sometimes Amanda and her Squad need a plan just to survive. Written for ages 6- 8.AMANDA COMMANDER - THE GREEN-EYED MONSTER is the fifth book in a Junior Fiction series promoting kindness, loyalty and friendship.
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
Celebrate Christmas with this hardcover edition of Robert L. May's famous Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. Beautiful, classic artwork makes this book a holiday keepsake. Every year at Christmastime, everyone has one catchy, joy-inspiring song stuck in their heads: "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer!" Now fans of the most famous reindeer of all time will fall in love with the original story, written by Robert L. May in 1939. Rudolph, a young reindeer who possesses an unusual luminous red nose, is teased and excluded by his peers because of this trait. One stormy Christmas Eve, Rudolph proves himself after Santa Claus catches sight of his nose and asks him to lead his sleigh for the evening. Rudolph saves Christmas and is finally treated the way he deserves by his fellow reindeer! This hardcover edition of the story features gorgeous artwork from Antonio Javier Caparo and is perfect for Christmas collections.
The King's Conservatorium
Young brothers and aspiring musicians, Garlan and Cadell, must find a way out of their kingdom that has outlawed music or they will never be free.Twelve-year-old Garlan and his mute younger brother are forced to run away from their abusive guardians. With no home to return to, the brothers make a dangerous and unlawful journey across the kingdom.The two boys are at constant risk of capture from the King's Guard due to being underage without guardians, and must move on from every town within three days or be arrested for violating traveller's law and sent to work in the King's Mines. Along the way they meet a small underground society of musicians who meet together to sing. Garlan has sung Cadell to sleep for years, and song is one of the few comforts the two have left. The meeting is busted by soldiers, and the brothers have to run for their lives. Still, the group's bravery inspires the brothers to dream of a world where they can embrace the joy and comfort of music freely, and live without constant fear. Though it's rumoured that no one has ever survived crossing the wall that runs along the border of the kingdom - and those who lived were immediately arrested - Garlan has to trust Cadell's unique ability to find lost things, and the pair try their luck navigating through a pitch-black series of tunnels that burrow underneath the wall. Garlan is terrified that they will die down there, and Cadell has to comfort him when they find a human skeleton deep in the cave. When they finally make it to the other side of the wall, Garlan and Cadell have to decide what they'll do with the opportunity to live in a way they've never known before. They race to try out for the King's Conservatorium, which allows children below the age of 13 to study and practice music full time. They barely make it to the auditions in time, and Garlan is even injured while working to pay for the journey.Though Garlan is the one who has spent his life singing, Cadell is the only one who makes it into the conservatorium, as he finds a song within his heart that he plays on an instrument he's never seen before. Garlan can't stay in the city without a job, and the separation of the brothers is tragic. But before anything else, Garlan has always wanted Cadell to be safe and happy, and he emphasises how lucky Cadell is, and how Garlan will find a job as a travelling musician that lets him visit the conservatorium often. Garlan sings to Cadell for the last time.The brothers' devotion to one another is heart-warming and deeply engaging, and sends a strong message of hope and perseverance for the sake of the people we care about. Similarly, anyone who has a personal relationship to music or art will feel seen and resonate with the way that song serves as a beacon of hope for the brothers in a dangerous and unpredictable world. It reminds the reader that even impossible circumstances are survivable if you have the love and passion necessary to fight for a better tomorrow.
It's Almost Time for . . . Christmas!
How to Catch Santa Claus meets The Night Before series in this present-wrapping, mistletoe-hanging picture book anticipating Christmas in the laugh-out-loud, rhyming It's Almost Time for... series. It's almost time for Christmas, and excitement is running high! It might not be here yet, but there's so much to do before the merry day arrives... From decorating the Christmas tree with ornaments to wrapping presents, baking cookies, and caroling, there are endless ways to celebrate! But not everyone can read the signs of the highly anticipated holiday on the way... It's Almost Time for...Christmas! is a perfect blend of festive fun and read-aloud magic that will have young readers laughing and identifying the misunderstanding at play before the characters catch on. This picture book makes a delightful gift for kids aged four to eight!
Running Back to You
A usually-honest middle schooler fibs about having been kissed then rushes to lock lips with someone before her lie is uncovered in this charming and relatable middle grade rom-com. Millie hates liars. Ever since her mom lied to their family about the six-month affair she was having, Millie has pledged to always tell the truth, no matter what. But when her classmate Logan asks her--in the middle of study hall with everyone listening--whether she's kissed anyone, she panics. She panics and lies, saying she has. Afterward, Millie spirals. She hasn't only broken her most important rule, she's done it badly. Millie's sure everyone knows she was fibbing. The only way out is to make reality catch up to her lies by changing her kiss status and getting a boyfriend...as quickly as possible. But Millie's mission keeps getting foiled by Logan, who suddenly seems to be there at every turn. Millie starts to wonder why Logan cares so much in the first place. Could it be that when he asked about her first kiss, it wasn't to embarrass her at all?
Running Back to You
A usually-honest ninth grader fibs about having been kissed then rushes to lock lips with someone before her lie is uncovered in this charming and relatable middle grade rom-com. Millie hates liars. Ever since her mom lied to their family about the six-month affair she was having, Millie has pledged to always tell the truth, no matter what. But when her classmate Logan asks her--in the middle of study hall with everyone listening--whether she's kissed anyone, she panics. She panics and lies, saying she has. Afterward, Millie spirals. She hasn't only broken her most important rule, she's done it badly. Millie's sure everyone knows she was fibbing. The only way out is to make reality catch up to her lies by changing her kiss status and getting a boyfriend...as quickly as possible. But Millie's mission keeps getting foiled by Logan, who suddenly seems to be there at every turn. Millie starts to wonder why Logan cares so much in the first place. Could it be that when he asked about her first kiss, it wasn't to embarrass her at all?
Dear Cousins Across the Pond
What if someone across the ocean still remembered you?Dear Cousins Across the Pond is a lyrical picture book told as a heartfelt letter from an African child to their cousins - descendants of those taken during the transatlantic slave trade. Through gentle, poetic language and warm watercolor illustrations, it invites young readers into a conversation about loss, legacy, and love that reaches across oceans.This story offers children ages 6-10 a tender introduction to African identity, colonization, and diaspora, encouraging pride in cultural roots while bridging African, Caribbean, and African-American experiences with care and hope.Perfect for classrooms, libraries, family read-alouds, and cultural education, Dear Cousins Across the Pond is both an invitation to remember and a celebration of connection.
Black Star
A Coretta Scott King Honor Book The thrilling follow up to the #1 New York Times bestseller The Door of No Return stars Kofi's granddaughter, Charley, who's set on becoming the first female pitcher to play professional ball but who soon has to contend with the tensions about to boil over in her segregated town.You can't protect her from knowing. The truth is all we have. 12-year old Charley Cuffey is many things: a granddaughter, a best friend, and probably the best pitcher in all of Lee's Mill. Set on becoming the first female pitcher to play professional ball, Charley doesn't need reminders from her best friend Cool Willie Green to know that she has lofty dreams for a Black girl in the American South. Even so, Nana Kofi's thrilling stories about courageous ancestors and epic journeys make it impossible not to dream big. She knows he has so many more to tell, but according to her parents, she isn't old enough to know about certain things like what happened to Booker Preston that one night in Great Bridge and why she can never play on the brand-new real deal baseball field on the other side of town. When Charley challenges a neighborhood bully to a game at the church picnic, she knows she can win, even with her ragtag team. But when the picnic spills over onto their ball field, she makes a fateful decision. A child cannot protect herself if she does not know her history, and Charley's choice brings consequences she never could have imagined. In this riveting follow up to The Door of No Return, set during the turbulent segregation era, and the beginning of The Great Migration, Kwame Alexander weaves a spellbinding story of struggle, determination, and the unflappable faith of an American family.
The Lonely Rainbow
Everybody gets lonely sometimes ... even rainbows! So when Violet the rainbow spies young Layla, a little girl who appears to be just as lonely as she is, she decides it's time to brighten her day. This sunny and whimsical tale shares a unique story of friendship and camaraderie, reminding young readers that after every storm comes a rainbow of hope.
Ezra's Valentines
Each year, Ezra made valentines for his classmates, friends, and family-but this year was different. He didn't want to spend time making them, and he didn't care if he got any either.Valentine's Day isn't that important anyways, thought Ezra.But when he sees "show kindness" on his chore list, Ezra begins to reconsider.Follow along in this heartwarming story as Ezra discovers what truly matters-family, friends, kindness, and love.Reader bonuses include an activity page along with a search for valentines scattered among the pages of this beautifully illustrated book.
Smoke & Mirrors
Grace McKellon isn't a 'people person'. All she needs is her magic tricks and her wise-cracking grandmother - until a new friend comes along and promises to make her a social media star. A wonderful and intriguing middle fiction novel from an internationally acclaimed, bestselling Australian author. I don't know about love. I suspect the emotion that others apparently feel all the time is just . . . absent from me. Like there's an ingredient missing from the recipe. The possible exception is Gran. Grace cares about only two things: performing magic and her cantankerous gran. Gran shares her prickly personality and spiky sense of humor, and she's the only one Grace lets into her tightly locked heart - until she meets Simon, a schoolmate who promises to help her turn her magic tricks into a small business and social media stardom. When Gran is diagnosed with a terminal illness, Grace moves in to become her primary carer. With the help of Simon and some sleight of hand, Grace is determined to bring joy back into their lives. And when she confronts her worst fear, she realizes maybe her heart doesn't need to stay locked away after all. A funny, compelling and fresh story from the author of the bestselling books My Life As An Alphabet and A Song Only I Can Hear.
Ballet Besties: Yara's Chance to Dance
Pirouette your way to the Shimmer and Shine dance studio! This first offering in a fun, inclusive, and accessible early chapter-book series brings the joy of dance to young readers. When Yara joins a community dance school, she meets lots of other children her age who are there to start their training or just for the fun of it. Soon she has a group of ballet besties she loves to dance with--until their grumpy landlady, Dame Clougston-Willmott, threatens to close the studio. Suddenly it's up to Yara and her new friends to keep Shimmer and Shine open! Will putting on a performance of The Sleeping Beauty reawaken the Dame's love for dance? Could Yara have a chance to dance her dream role of Aurora? And most important of all, can the ballet besties save their studio? From a principal dancer with the Royal Ballet and an award-winning children's author comes an engaging story of friendship, responsibility, and teamwork, with back matter explaining the various dance techniques and more. Black-and-white illustrations bring a diverse group of characters to life.
Ballet Besties: Yara's Chance to Dance
Pirouette your way to the Shimmer and Shine dance studio! This first offering in a fun, inclusive, and accessible early chapter-book series brings the joy of dance to young readers. When Yara joins a community dance school, she meets lots of other children her age who are there to start their training or just for the fun of it. Soon she has a group of ballet besties she loves to dance with--until their grumpy landlady, Dame Clougston-Willmott, threatens to close the studio. Suddenly it's up to Yara and her new friends to keep Shimmer and Shine open! Will putting on a performance of The Sleeping Beauty reawaken the Dame's love for dance? Could Yara have a chance to dance her dream role of Aurora? And most important of all, can the ballet besties save their studio? From a principal dancer with the Royal Ballet and an award-winning children's author comes an engaging story of friendship, responsibility, and teamwork, with back matter explaining the various dance techniques and more. Black-and-white illustrations bring a diverse group of characters to life.
The Bogus Bros' Halloween Heist
The Bogus Brothers are back-and this time, they're out to turn Halloween into a full-blown fright fest! With roaches, raccoons, and a haunted house gone hilariously wrong, their spooky plan might just backfire in the funniest way possible. Packed with silly surprises, monster mix-ups, and laugh-out-loud twists, this mischievous Halloween adventure is perfect for little tricksters who love a good laugh.
Famous Anonymous
The first book in a new series about neighborhood friends who find sudden fame with a series of viral videos... only no one knows who they really are. Hannah Montana for the TikTok generation. Four kids from the same neighborhood, lifelong friends, throw on some costumes and make a funny video one night when their parents are out. One of them shares it with the group, another posts it on a TikTok-like social media, and suddenly the video blows up. Which makes the kids famous! Well, famous... and anonymous. Because no one can tell who they really are--and their parents must never find out. But their new fans want more content! So the four friends go on to make a series of over-the-top videos that vault them into a new world of celebrity and influence. They feel the rush of attention and the power of their own creations, but also struggle to preserve their fame and their anonymity. These books explore friendship, loyalty, and imagination, all while considering big questions that come up in a social media context, like: How do you protect your true self online? And is it ever really possible to be anonymous?
