'Twas the Night Before Christmas
It's Christmas Eve. The children are snuggled, safe in their beds. Not even a mouse is stirring when something is heard outside... What could it be? Wonderful illustrations by John Joven introduce the famous Christmas rhyme about a very special visitor to a new generation of readers and listeners. With free online audio.
Enchanted Night Before Christmas
The Sherman family does not have very much, but they take good care of one another and are generous to others, making gingerbread cookies as holiday gifts and carefully decorating them to look like friends and neighbors. Then, one Christmas Eve, after the family returns home from delivering their gifts, and everyone falls fast asleep, something magical stirs, born in a star of snow, that will change their holiday, and their lives, forever. Inspired by a real rural tradition from the foothills of the Green Mountains, Enchanted Night Before Christmas is timeless fantasy that reminds us the most powerful gifts are the ones we give away.
A Heart for Christmas
A teen reclaims her independence and opens her heart to Christmas with the help of a handsome ski instructor in this swoon-worthy young adult holiday romance told in a groundbreaking advent calendar format, with chapter-a-day reading making it a true slow-burn! When eighteen-year-old April heads to the foothills of Mont Blanc in the Alps to spend her first Christmas at her father's chalet, she's hoping for a change. Ever since her heart operation two years ago, she's lived as carefully as possible. Supervised exercise, green tea, rice cakes, focusing only on her studies. But now, she's healthy and there's a world out there that she's missing. When April's ski instructor turns out to be her best friend's older brother, Augustin, it feels like a sign. As Augustin encourages April to build up her strength, April feels drawn to him in ways she wasn't expecting. Augustin is daring and gorgeous, and April doesn't want to let her life pass her by any longer. But is her just-healed heart ready for a Christmas miracle? With this book's unique advent calendar format, each of the twenty-four chapters is sealed by its own perforated enclosure that readers can gently tear open--by hand or with the help of a ruler--to read a chapter a day in the weeks leading to Christmas!
Howl at the Moon
Liv's were-pup friend sets out to transform into a real werewolf in book five of the Spirited graphic chapter book series. Liv Livingston can't help but notice her were-pup friend, Howlward "Howl" Moon, Jr., isn't acting like his usual good-boy self. No matter which form he's in, Howl's usually happy to chase after a ghost kitten, gnaw on a delicious treat, or just hang out with his friends. But Howl is tired of being dubbed cute and adorable and has set out to learn how to transform into a full werewolf. But first, he's got to find his howl.
The Family Tree
A whimsical picture book meditation on what makes a home, what makes a family, and how a magical tree can hold everything--and everyone--together. Nothing ever really happens at Penny's house. It's all hurry in and hurry out again. But then, something wonderful and unexpected appears that gets everyone's attention. It starts out small, just a seed, then grows and grows until it's simply too big to ignore: a tree! Every day, the tree gets a little taller, a little leafier, and a lot more special. And every day, as they care for the tree, Penny's family starts to hurry out less and stay in more. Could something else be shifting in Penny's house, something much more than a tree?
The Elevator on 74th Street
Small Walt meets The Last Stop on Market Street in this picture book about a warmhearted elevator that's part matchmaker, part friend, and all sweetness. Every day, Ellie the elevator works tirelessly to make the residents of her building happy. She loves everyone who lives in her building--even the dogs with muddy paws and the over-enthusiastic button-pushers. But Ellie has a soft spot for Thea, who bounces through Ellie's doors with a cheerful grin every day. After Thea's best friend moves away, Ellie rarely sees Thea smile anymore. Ellie wants to cheer Thea up...but what can an elevator do to help? Leave it to Ellie to make Thea's world better.
Pop-Up Pals: Where's Santa?
Everyone's working hard to get ready for Christmas, but where is Santa? Search the workshop, then see Santa pop up from his hiding place on the very last page. Simply pull the tab to reveal the 3D pop-up Santa, then push lightly to set him back down. An internal velcro closure will safely lock the pop-up in place until you're ready to read again. Hardcover 7 1/2 x 7 1/2 In.
The Spirit of Loughmoe Abbey
'I live on the other side.' Gwen swallowed. 'Of what?' 'Of life.' The spirit girl's eyes shone with silver tears. What if the dead could help the living? Home schooled all her life, Gwen is packed off to boarding school when her mother goes into hospital. Gwen believes the key to making her mother better is to be a success at school. Trouble is Gwen doesn't fit in. She is bottom of the class, useless at games and doesn't get along with her classmates, but in 1980s Ireland, nobody has heard of neurodivergence - especially in girls! Gwen wishes she could make friends but doesn't know what a 'real' friend is. To make matters worse she is haunted by a mysterious spirit who wants to help Gwen and her mother. Can Gwen trust the spirit? And can the two of them make Gwen's mum better? An extraordinary ghost story about a family mystery and finding 'real' friendship.
Madeline Says Be Kind
Share the gift of kindness with Madeline. Whether it's cleaning up, helping a friend when they fall, or lending a listening ear--there are endless opportunities to show someone you care. Full of Madeline's classic charm, Madeline Says Be Kind is a perfect introduction to the importance of kindness.
24 Sleeps Till Christmas
An advent calendar activity that's enjoyable for the whole family!24 Sleeps Till Christmas is a collection of stories for each night leading up to Christmas, for parents and kids to read together. Starring little girls and boys on wintry holiday adventures--like learning to skate on a homemade rink, arty parties to make Christmas cards with friends, and picking out a tree with the whole family--and having fun with adorable animal pals along the way, early readers will be delighted by full-colour illustrations in each story. As we get closer to Christmas, so do the stories, building anticipation for the big day!
With a Needle and Thread
A Cuban-Jewish girl and her abuelita transform a beloved dress into treasured symbols of community and tradition. A heartwarming tale of resilience, creativity, and celebration--stitched together with love, faith, and a little lo que sea. Romi lives with her abuelita in the small Jewish community in Santiago de Cuba. They don't have much here, but with a little imagination and lo que sea, they'll make it work-- so an outgrown dress becomes a blanket becomes a prayer tallis becomes a wedding chuppah and ultimately becomes a symbol at the center of this community's celebrations. Author, Jennifer Stempel has woven her own Cuban Jewish heritage into this heartwarming folktale. Readers will delight in Libi Axelrod's detailed illustrations which highlight the rich traditions of this unique community.
Yoli's Favorite Things
"Do you know when the war will be over?""You're asking because you have older brothers, don't you?" Twelve-year-old Yolanda Sahag繳n, an aspiring nun raised by strict Mexican immigrant parents, likes to envision her family of nine siblings as the von Trapps from her favorite movie, The Sound of Music. But a larger-than-life family isn't the only thing Yoli has in common with her fictional friends--she, too, is coming of age as war looms large. In Yoli's household, rules define everything--especially those about what the Sahag繳n daughters are old enough to do, like no talking to boys on the phone. But there are no rules on the battlefield, and Yoli is grown enough to understand that her draft-eligible big brother (her favorite brother!) could be killed in the war. Determined to protect him, Yoli makes a pact with God. But what happens if God doesn't keep his end of the bargain? Set against a rich historical backdrop of the Vietnam War and the Civil Rights Movement, Patricia Santana's heartfelt middle grade novel balances weighty themes with warm family dynamics and a captivating voice that's sure to be a favorite with fans of character-driven historical fiction, as well as contemporary readers who can relate to the challenges of just living their lives when it feels like the world is on fire. A Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection
Heaven's Window
Heaven's Window is a heartfelt, tenderly illustrated picture book that celebrates the timeless bond between a mother and her child. Written in lyrical verse and inspired by the author's real journey to motherhood, it's a story of longing, faith, and the quiet miracles that unfold over time.With enchanting watercolor illustrations and a universal message of resilience and love, the story honors both the ache of waiting and the joy of fulfillment. Rooted in faith and the whispers of those who came before us, it reflects love's divine presence across generations.This poetic children's book is a treasured keepsake for families navigating their own unique paths to parenthood, finally embracing the gift of a long-awaited child.
Salma Speaks Up
Salma embraces her voice and speaks up for herself and her friends. Salma's best friend Riya has had a secret: she dreams of becoming a poet! So when their school's Speech Club announces an assembly where the winner will get a spot in a city-wide writing workshop, Riya convinces Salma to join the club with her. But Nathan, another member of the club, keeps criticizing the girls for not speaking English "correctly." Salma grows increasingly frustrated: why does Nathan get to decide which accents are good or bad? Also, Salma is worried about her beloved Khalou Dawood, who keeps canceling their dinner plans, although he claims he's not sick. Through research and discussions with her family, Salma discovers what might be impacting Khalou and also gains the courage and confidence to embrace her voice and speak up for herself and others.
Salma Speaks Up
Salma embraces her voice and speaks up for herself and her friends. Salma's best friend Riya has had a secret: she dreams of becoming a poet! So when their school's Speech Club announces an assembly where the winner will get a spot in a city-wide writing workshop, Riya convinces Salma to join the club with her. But Nathan, another member of the club, keeps criticizing the girls for not speaking English "correctly." Salma grows increasingly frustrated: why does Nathan get to decide which accents are good or bad? Also, Salma is worried about her beloved Khalou Dawood, who keeps canceling their dinner plans, although he claims he's not sick. Through research and discussions with her family, Salma discovers what might be impacting Khalou and also gains the courage and confidence to embrace her voice and speak up for herself and others.
I Love You
A joyful, poetic read-aloud book that uses gentle words paired with simple, yet vibrant watercolor illustrations to help celebrate growth, love, and family. A great gift to celebrate the addition of a little one to your family.
The Last Tamale/El ?ltimo Tamal
With the English and Spanish text side by side on the page, this bilingual edition of the vibrant picture book about three kids competing in an epic battle for the last tamale at their family's annual tamalada is ideal for bilingual readers as well as Spanish speakers learning English and vice versa. It's the best day of the year--tamale day. Luis and his family have been making and eating tamales all day. But when Luis, Jacob, and Letty all want the last tamale, there's only one way to choose a winner...A TAMALE BATTLE!Round one: Dance Battle. Round Two: Lucha Libre Match. Round Three: Arm Wrestle with Abuelita.Who will get the last tamale?In this celebration of family, food, and friendly competition, readers will be hungry for The Last Tamale! Perfect for fans of Paletero Man/癒Que Paletero tan Cool! and Friday Night Wrestle Fest. ******************************************************************Es el mejor d穩a del a簽o - el Dia del tamal. Luis y su familia han cocinado y comido tamales todo el d穩a. Pero cuando Luis, Jacobo, y Letty todos quieren el 繳ltimo tamal, s籀lo queda una manera de escoger el ganador...癒UNA COMPETICI?N POR EL TAMAL!La primera ronda: Una batalla de baile. La segunda ronda: una competencia de lucha libre. La tercera ronda: ganarle a las vencidas a la abuelita.聶Qui矇n ganar獺 el 繳ltimo tamal?Una celebraci籀n de la familia, de la comida, y de la competencia amigable, los lectores quedar獺n hambrientos por El 繳ltimo tamal. Es perfecto para los entusiastas de Paletero Man/癒Que Paletero tan Cool! y Friday Night Wrestle Fest.
The Book of Candles
From Sydney Taylor Award winner and National Jewish Book Award honoree Laurel Snyder comes a warm, reverential, surprising, and fresh story of one very special Hanukkah.In a dark, dark room, one thin candlewakes, bursts to lifeThus begins the first night of Hanukkah in one child's home. But what does the light from the candle mean? What are the words everyone is singing? What will each of these eight nights hold? Family and friends, takeout dinners and flat tires, traditions new and old--it's all part of this year's timeless, timely holiday celebration.
Bunheads, ACT 2
The Instant NYT Bestselling Bunheads by Misty Copeland gets a second act. Misty and her bunhead crew are back! And this time, they're excited to learn the ballet Don Quixote--a wondrous tale about a brave knight search-ing for his Dulcinea, his one true love. Misty's best friend, Cat, loves this ballet most of all. She thinks Don Quixote's quest to find love is romantic, but she also knows the story's real hero is Kitri, the daughter of an innkeeper, who boldly defies her father to marry for love instead of money. The class is spellbound as Cat tells them the story, and their teacher agrees Don Quixote is the perfect next ballet for their class to perform. The bunheads get right to work learn-ing the ballet. Misty hopes to land the role of Cupid, and she knows the role of the strong-willed Kitri could only be played by Cat. But when Cat is injured and unable to perform, she weathers her disappointment with courage and a dose of girl power that would make Kitri proud. Bunheads, Act 2: The Dance of Courage is an inspiring tale for anyone who's ever suffered a setback or had a dream deferred. Setor Fiadzigbey returns to bring Misty Copeland's bunhead crew to vibrant life with illustrations that will enthrall.
Just Ducky
Margaret " aka Ducky" is wild about ducks. Things go " fowl" at day camp when she shares too many unsolicited duck facts until she learns to listen and make space for the other campers' interests.
Elves 101: Everything You Need to Know about Elves Funny Christmas Picture Book for Kids Ages 5-9
Elf 101 and Everything You Need to Know About Them: Recommended by ElvesTwo trends in one: A colorful seek-and-find book with funny pictures and stories about elves for children aged 4 and up. Elf knowledge for the whole family: Fun facts about daily life in the elf world, elf letters, and the many amusing pranks of these little Christmas helpers. For all Christmas elf fans: A cheerful introduction to the pre-Christmas elf door by bestselling author Ruby van der Bogen. Celebrate Christmas with elves: The seek-and-find book pairs wonderfully with the Elf Door Advent Calendar "101 Elves Move In." This large seek-and-find book features many funny scenes, stories, and facts from the colorful world of elves. A great St. Nicholas gift and a delightful read-aloud experience for families with children aged 4 and up, where a Christmas elf moves in.
Don't Call Me Slowpoke
Join Alexander on a heartfelt journey as he grapples with the challenges of living with sickle cell disease, an invisible illness that sets him apart from his peers. "I wish I could do things faster, Mom," Alexander said."Maybe the other kids wouldn't pick on me anymore."Bullied by his peers, who don't understand his condition, Alexander struggles to stand up for himself. As readers follow Alexander's challenges and triumphs, they'll gain insight into the experiences of those living with invisible illnesses.In this inclusion book for kids, readers will findlessons about empathy, respect, and compassion, why it's important to understand the experiences of those with disabilities, guided questions to help them engage with Alexander's story on a personal level, anda deeper understanding of diversity.Perfect for parents, educators, and children alike, Don't Call Me Slowpoke is a compassionate and thought-provoking exploration of being different, being enough, and standing up for oneself.
Malfoy
With his very first sneer, Draco Malfoy is established as the school bully of the Harry Potter series. But how did Draco become so detestable? What was inherited from his parents, and what is unique to him among the Malfoy clan? And what was he thinking all those times when he picked fights with Harry, Ron, or Hermione? Malfoy analyzes Draco throughout his seven years at Hogwarts, as his role in the series grew in prominence. At the same time, Lucius Malfoy and Narcissa Malfoy have their own stories play out, forever scheming and plotting to advance the family's interests... even when they're in conflict with each other. Bestselling author Irvin Khaytman dives deep into the Malfoys' deeds to answer the two central questions about Draco that remain after Deathly Hallows: Is he redeemable? And was he redeemed?
The Littlest Yak and the New Arrival
Gertie is going to be a big sister! But is there room in Mummy's heart for the little yak--and an even littler new arrival? Gertie the littlest yak is getting ready to welcome a new arrival to the family, and that means big sister planning and big sister sharing. She can't wait to share all her favorite things -- like her curly-wool comb for important back-scratching, or her pinecones for playing yak throwing and catching -- because the newest yakling will have so much to learn! But how does Gertie feel about sharing Mummy? Is there enough room in Mummy's heart to love both Gertie AND the new arrival? This adorably warm and reassuring story from the award-winning creators of The Littlest Yak shows readers that there will always be room for families, and hearts, to grow.
Merry Grinchmas, Baby! with Dr. Seuss Babies
Learn the true meaning of Christmas with baby Grinch, Cindy-Lou Who, and Max! This adorable board book that shines with foil and glitter will capture the hearts and attention of the youngest Dr. Seuss fans. It's almost Christmasfor the Grinch, Max, and Cindy-Lou.What is Christmas all about?Who knows? Do you? Nurture a love of reading and of Dr. Seuss with this captivating board book! Along with baby Grinch, Cindy-Lou Who, and Max, little readers will delight in the traditions of Christmas, from decorating a tree, to visits from Santa Claus, to the joy of being with loved ones. Featuring the Dr. Seuss babies and simple rhyme, this glistening book is perfect for holiday storytime. Look for more Dr. Seuss Babies titles!Happy First Birthday with Dr. Seuss BabiesMr. Brown on the Farm with Dr. Seuss Babies
When the World Tips Over
* An Instant New York Times Bestseller * "Jandy Nelson is a true virtuoso . . . I am fervently in love with this brave, funny, tender, exuberant beating heart of a book." --Becky Albertalli, author of Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda and Imogen, Obviously The explosive novel that brims with love, secrets, and enchantment by Jandy Nelson, Printz Award-winning and New York Times bestselling author of I'll Give You the Sun * This stunning first printing boasts brilliant blue sprayed edges, creating a sumptuous look for this dazzling saga. * Years ago in California wine country, where the sun pours out of the sky and the hot devil winds blow the sense right out of your head, the three Fall siblings' father mysteriously disappeared, breaking the family into pieces. Now Dizzy, age twelve, bakes cakes, sees spirits, and wishes she were the heroine of a romance novel. "Perfect Miles," seventeen, the boy no one worries about (though everyone should) is adrift, only the neighbor's dog aware that he dreams of other guys. And Wynton, nineteen, who raises the temperature of a room just by entering it, is a virtuoso violinist set on a crash course for fame . . . or self-destruction. Then an enigmatic rainbow-haired girl shows up, tipping the Falls' world over. She might be an angel. Or a saint. Or an ordinary girl. Somehow, she is vital to each of them. But before anyone can figure her out, catastrophe strikes, leaving the Falls more broken than ever. With rivalries, road trips, family curses, and love stories upon love stories, this era-spanning epic explores the sorrows and joys passed from one generation to the next, as a family tries to rewrite their future. "Sumptuous . . . Captivating . . . Luscious, start to finish." --Shelf Awareness (starred review)"Splendid and complex . . . Satisfying and soul-thrilling." --SLJ (starred review)"Transcendently beautiful." --Nina LaCour, author of We Are Okay"[A] multigenerational epic sprinkled with magic . . . Profound." --PW (starred review)"Jandy Nelson is a rare, explosive talent." --Tahereh Mafi, author of the Shatter Me series"A technicolor fever dream offering readers a sensory feast." --Kirkus"A gloriously intricate and expansive YA/adult crossover . . . Stunningly generous." --Just Imagine"Sublime, intricate, and dazzling." --Helena Fox, author of How It Feels to Float"A complex, seductive YA heartbreaker." --The Guardian"Intoxicating. [Destined to] firmly lodge itself within many, many hearts." --The Irish Times"Magical and moving." --Common Sense Media"Beautiful." --Booklist"Unforgettable." --The Observer
Dr. Seuss's Horton Hears a Hanukkah Party!
Join Dr. Seuss's beloved character Horton the elephant as he discovers the joys and traditions of Hanukkah with help from the Whos! On an evening quite cool, on a snow-blowy nightIn the Jungle of Nool, which was covered in white, Horton the elephant had just gone to sleepWhen a noise woke him up. It was barely a peep... Horton the elephant is as observant and kind as ever in this festive picture book about the Jewish celebration of miracles and freedom. When Horton hears joyful singing one night, the kangaroos and the Wickersham brothers are sure he is not right. But when Horton hears new distant sounds and smells over seven nights, he knows that he isn't dreaming! On the eighth night, Horton and his friends discover the source of the mystery, as the Whos invite them to a very special celebration. Written and illustrated in the iconic style of Dr. Seuss's Horton Hears a Who!, this Hanukkah read-aloud is perfect for learning about Hanukkah traditions and celebrating the Jewish Festival of Lights.
Ghost Says Meow!
Halloween is here again, and the night is alive with the sounds of spookiness! Skeletons clatter, bats shriek, and one little ghost says . . . "Meow"? Ghost Says Meow! is a heartwarming tale about a ghost who dares to defy expectations. Her new ideas cause quite the stir--after all, ghosts are supposed to say "Boo," right? As our spirited ghost embraces her unique voice, her friends can't help but be curious--and a bit alarmed. Could it be that there's room for a different kind of ghostly expression? With a dash of creativity and no small amount of bravery, the little ghost begins to show her spooky friends the magic that comes from thinking outside the haunted house. With an enchanting story supported by charming illustrations, Ghost Says Meow! is the perfect storytime companion for the Halloween season. The delightful tale teaches little ones the joy that can come from being themselves while encouraging them to find inspiration in the unconventional. Join this adorable ghost on her journey of self-discovery and see how one small voice can inspire a whole community to celebrate their differences in their own special ways. Perfect for families looking to spark creativity and open-mindedness, this enchanting book is sure to become a Halloween favorite!
One Big Brave Heart
Every brave heart begins with one small step.One Big Brave Heart / Gran y Valiente Coraz籀n is a bilingual picture book that gently encourages children to recognize and trust the quiet strength inside themselves. Written in both English and Spanish, this uplifting story celebrates the everyday courage children show when they try something new, use their voice, or listen to their feelings.Through simple, powerful text and vibrant illustrations, young readers follow the journey of a little girl who learns that bravery doesn't mean the absence of fear - it means moving forward even when you feel afraid. From helping a friend, to saying "no" when something doesn't feel right, to taking a small step toward a big dream, this story highlights the many ways children can show courage in their daily lives.With themes of empathy, inclusivity, and resilience, My One Big Brave Heart is more than just a story - it's a tool for families, caregivers, and educators to nurture social-emotional learning. The bilingual format makes it ideal for classrooms, libraries, and homes where children are learning two languages, and for anyone who values stories that bring cultures together.Perfect for children ages 4-8, this book supports: Emotional growth: helping children name and understand their feelings.Confidence building: showing that small steps can lead to big bravery.Inclusivity and empathy: reinforcing the idea that every child's voice matters.Language learning: offering text in both English and Spanish to support bilingual readers.Whether read aloud at home, shared in a classroom, or gifted to inspire a young child, this book reminds readers that courage can be quiet, gentle, and deeply powerful.Because inside every child lives one big brave heart.
Mom's Busy Work
An inspiring and heartwarming book about the relationship between a working mom and her daughter by the former prime minister of New Zealand, Jacinda Ardern. Today I got out of bed and asked Mom what day it was. "Monday" she said. I asked if that was a daycare day. She said yes. I stomped my feet. Even though daycare is fun, it's still hard not to miss Mom throughout the week! But despite her busy job, there's always time for stories, time for games; time for hugs and time for love. Based on real conversations Dame Jacinda Ardern had with her young daughter while she was prime minster of New Zealand, this book celebrates the relationship between working moms and their children. With striking art by Ruby Jones, Mom's Busy Work shows how, even when apart during the day, the love between a parent and their child is unquestionable.
I Will Not Be Scared
A potent story about the power of talking through our fears to set ourselves free of them, from award-winning creators Jean-Fran癟ois S矇n矇chal and Simone Rea. Our fears can consume the entirety of our lives -- unless we find ways to free ourselves of them. As a young rabbit tries to fall asleep one night, kept awake by the trauma of his family's past life in a war-torn region, he replays scenes in his head of an entirely new battle: being attacked by bullies the previous day at school. While his mother tries to encourage him to open up about the incident itself, he hesitates, instead questioning whether he possesses enough courage at all. It's only through addressing the root of his fears, a process that is never easy, that he understands how to free himself and move forward.
