Must Be Friends
Some friendships aren't chosen-they're forged to survive.Summer 1927. Jo's mother is in prison, her stepfather's temper has left more than one bruise, and every grown-up in her Midwestern city seems to be looking the other way. Sam is an orphan riding the rails, safer dressed as a boy than as the girl she is. They meet on a vacant-lot baseball field in caps and knickers, hiding who they are from the boys around them-and from the men who think girls are theirs to use.One violent night forces Jo to swing Sam's bat for real, and everything changes. Suddenly the girls are alone in a small house with a hidden income and no adults they dare trust. In disguise, they build a fragile life together: playing ball with the neighborhood boys, hauling bootleg moonshine on their bicycles, and slowly letting a few good people into the circle they've drawn around each other. But the more they risk, the closer danger creeps-from backroom bootleggers who notice too much to a gray Chrysler lurking at the edges of their world.As America edges toward the Great Depression, Jo and Sam have to decide how far they'll go to stay free-and whether they can stop running long enough to claim a home of their own. Harrowing yet fiercely hopeful, Must Be Friends will resonate with readers of The Outsiders and The Book Thief who love historical stories of girlhood in disguise, found family, and the cost of protecting the one person who finally feels like home.
Voice of the Ashes
"Sometimes those who seem to be the best friends turn out to be the worst foes."Queen Mary's reign brings trouble as well as blessing to Laurence and his family. But when a martyr's words pull him down a path to discover the truth, he realizes just how much he has.And how much he has to lose.The disastrous consequences of his new faith leave him reeling. London is filled with the bishop's soldiers, old acquaintances, and long-time friends who want to convert the 'heretics' to Catholicism... or wipe them out.Laurence longs for someone who will stand with him no matter the cost, but who can he trust? Those he loves most have rejected him. Those who now seek his friendship could do the same, or worse.As the Voice of the ashes leads Laurence onward and consequences grow grimmer, will he stand for truth, even if it means standing alone?About the AuthorT.R.Q.T. is a daughter of the King with a passion for historical fiction. She blogs about writing and living for the glory of God on her website, trqtbooks.com. When she's not in her walk-in closet turned office (affectionately called her dungeon), she can be found composing music, playing strategy board games, or making iced coffee.
Badlands National Park
Lorelei, the prairie dog ranger, invites you to join her on a journey to explore Badlands National Park. She'll take you on her mission to discover what about Badlands could possibly be "bad." She will look for the "bad" in notable locations including Notch trail and the Yellow Mounds. With captivating rhymes and playful illustrations, this tale introduces you to all that is good about Badlands National Park.
Death Valley National Park
Teya, the desert tortoise ranger, invites you to join her on a journey to explore Death Valley National Park. She investigates mysteries including the singing sand, the moving rocks, and the appearance of snow despite the heat. Throughout the book Teya visits familiar locations including Badwater Basin, Artists Drive, and Racetrack Playa. With captivating rhymes and playful illustrations, this tale captures the history and magic of Death Valley National Park.
The Butterfly and Me
A young girl named Cicely has her portrait painted by a famous artist. All goes well until one day she has a full-blown tantrum and swears at him! Will she get in trouble and get kicked out of the studio? Or will she learn something about the artist, herself, and the city she lives in?"The Butterfly and Me" is based on the true story of a young girl painted by the artist James McNeill Whistler in the 1870s. In the story, we meet Cicely Alexander and experience her adventures with Whistler and the difficulties of having her portrait painted.
All the Stars Denied
In a companion novel to her critically acclaimed Shame the Stars, Pura Belpr矇 Award Winner Guadalupe Garc穩a McCall tackles the first mass deportation event in the US, which swept up hundreds of thousands of Mexican American citizens during the Great Depression.It's the heart of the Great Depression and Rancho Las Moras, like everywhere else in Texas, is gripped by the drought of the Dust Bowl, and resentment is building among White farmers against Mexican Americans. All around town, signs go up proclaiming "No Dogs or Mexicans" and "No Mexicans Allowed." So when Estrella organizes a protest against the treatment of Tejanos, her whole family becomes a target of "repatriation" efforts to send Mexicans "back to Mexico" -- whether they were ever Mexican citizens or not. Dumped across the border and separated from half her family, Estrella must figure out a way to survive and care for her mother and baby brother. How can she reunite with her father and grandparents and convince her country of birth that she deserves to return home? In this companion novel to her critically acclaimed Shame the Stars Guadalupe Garc穩a McCall reveals the hidden history of the first mass deportation event that swept up hundreds of thousands of Mexican American citizens during the Great Depression.
Zion National Park
Pop, the porcupine, invites you to join him on a journey to explore Zion National Park. He shows you around his favorite locations including The Narrows, Weeping Rock, Checkerboard Mesa, and Angels Landing, but becomes lost while looking at the wildflowers. Luckily a park ranger saves the day! With captivating rhymes and playful illustrations, this tale captures the history and magic of Zion National Park.
Gwyneth, Growing Up in the Mountains of North Wales During WWII
Gwyneth, Growing Up in Mountains of North Wales During World War II has many adventures and learns many family tales. From bathing rabbits and riding ponies with her brother, Mort, to overcoming a nearby explosion and playing with evacuated children from different countries, follow Gwyneth through her childhood years.Throughout her adventures she overcomes many obstacles and makes many friends. Gwyneth's life mirrors the author's life in many ways, and along with all of the colorful illustrations throughout the book, see real-life photos near the back of Audrey (the author) and her family during their years in Wales.
Buzzy and Thomas Activity Book
Buzzy the dog lives a happy life as Thomas Jefferson's furry best friend -- but when Thomas tells her that they're moving to the White House, her whole world changes! This is a companion activity book, filled with coloring pages, a Wordsearch, Crossword puzzle and comprehension questions. A delightful picture book perfect for teaching children about US history.
Buzzy and Thomas Move into the President's House
It's 1801 and life is good for Buzzy, or so she thinks. Buzzy lives with Thomas Jefferson at Monticello, but her life turns upside down when Thomas tells her that they're moving to the President's House. Buzzy doesn't want to move. What will she do? This enjoyable early chapter reader for ages 4 - 8 teaches kids about President Jefferson, the new breed of dog he brought home from France and confronting issues about moving. Historical fiction at it's best: learning from the pets of famous people in history. At the end of the book are coloring pages, comprehension questions and puzzles. Your child will love it!"Cheerfully illustrated in full color, Buzzy and Thomas Move Into the President's House is a delightful account of the historically documented move of President Thomas Jefferson into the President's house, accompanied by his dog, Buzzy, and his mockingbird pet, Dickie." --James A. Cox, Editor-in-Chief, Children's Bookwatch"The story is delightful and what makes it more appealing is the fact that Thomas Jefferson, who became the President of the United States, had a dog named Buzzy, a horse named Caractacus, another dog named Bull, and a mockingbird called Dickie. The illustrations are lively and colorful and they breathe life into the characters and give the story a good pace and movement." --Reader's Favorite Bronze Book Award Winner
The Real Education of TJ Crowley
Winner of the 2025 Audie AwardWinner of the AudioFile Earphones AwardIPPY Award - Outstanding Audiobook of the YearIn a time of national division, a teenager faces a choice of conscience-to hold on to the life he's known or find the courage to stand up for the future he's come to believe in.Sit in the director's chair with this Scriptbook Edition, designed to be experienced alongside the full-cast audio drama. Follow every word as fifteen actors bring twenty-four characters to life in a powerful, immersive read-and-listen experience."Performed by a gifted cast, this slice of our history stays with the listener." - AudioFile MagazineWichita, summer 1968. The Civil Rights Movement is a time of turmoil and change. New fair-housing laws and the integration of schools promise equality, but not everyone is ready to accept this new reality. Your father is gone. Your brother is a soldier in Vietnam. Your mother is losing it. Then the Washingtons-a Black family with a daughter your age-cross the invisible redline and move in right next door.You're thirteen, walking into a newly integrated junior high with sports dreams, a temper you can't always control, and classmates unlike any you've ever known: Eric, your wannabe-hippie best friend; Andy, the brainy athlete from Alabama; Leon, who declares he's "The Greatest," like his idol Muhammad Ali; and Ivy, the fearless girl you can't ignore.A man from your mother's past appears-an old flame who fuels her hate and fear. He makes himself at home in your house. He orders you to help build the fence between your yard and hers. Your mother warns, "Stay away from them or you're grounded for life!"As tensions mount at home, haunting music drifts through the fence separating your house from theirs. You decide to step across, entering a world of possibility and danger.Rooted in the author's own journey and the lived experiences of others, this unforgettable drama gives voice to a period of history not unlike our own.A story of who we were-and who we can be. It demands to be both read and heard.ADVISORY: Contains violent content and racist language. Best suited for mature YA readers and adults.Classroom educators, book-group leaders, and solo readers: unlock bonus materials and purchase the award-winning audio drama. QR code inside.
Amalo
This book was inspired by my real-life experience visiting grandma Amalo on her farm in Nejo, Wolega in Ethiopia. It highlights her day in the life and how she finds joy in small, everyday moments such as milking a cow, tending the garden, cooking, and drinking coffee with friends. Through these moments in nature and her community she finds a sense of joy and happiness.
(New Edition) Picketing the President
This New Edition of Picketing the President: Delia's Dilemma - Grandmother Nolan and the Suffragists presents a refined, enhanced version of the original work-featuring updated layout, improved readability, and a fully redesigned cover that brings new life to this stirring historical novel.Set during the intense winter of 1918-1919, the story follows seventeen-year-old Delia Nolan as she joins her grandmother, Mary Nolan, a committed suffragist recently released from jail for picketing the White House. Together, they stand with the National Woman's Party amid violent opposition, a deadly pandemic, and relentless political resistance. As Delia faces arrest, hostility, and the stirrings of first love, she discovers the courage that will shape her future and solidify her bond with her grandmother.A moving tribute to the women who fought for the 19th Amendment, this New Edition brings deeper emotional resonance and renewed historical clarity, making it perfect for today's readers of all ages.
Happy Birthday to US!
Happy Birthday to US! A Fourth of July Celebration for kids!It's the Fourth of July - and someone's birthday!At first, a young child believes the parade, fireworks, and fanfare are all in honor of his special day. But as the story unfolds, he discovers the celebration is for something even bigger- America's birthday!Told in joyful rhyme and bursting with colorful illustrations, Happy Birthday to US blends a child's excitement for their own big day with the pride and spirit of Independence Day. Young readers will learn about the meaning behind July 4th - freedom, community, and the history of America's independence -while sharing a heartwarming story about belonging and discovery.Perfect forClassroom and library story timesFamilies celebrating summer birthdaysTeaching children about Independence Day and Patriotism Whether read aloud at home, in schools, or at holiday events, Happy Birthday to US is a festive and meaningful addition to any child's bookshelf - and a perfect way to celebrateAmerica's 250th Birthday on July 4, 2026!
Thunder Birds
When war erupts on the Minnesota frontier, childhood ends in a single terrible season. Thunder Birds follows white and Dakota boys and girls whose lives are shattered by a conflict they never chose-and whose courage and friendships defy the violent world around them.In the summer of 1862, hunger, broken treaties, and government betrayal push the Dakota people to a breaking point. Families who once traded, played, and worshipped side-by-side are torn apart overnight. Through the eyes of young protagonists on both sides, readers witness how neighbors become enemies... and how hope survives even in a season of fear.As the children struggle to survive, powerful leaders shape the war's fate: Little Crow, who tries to protect his starving peopleHenry Sibley and Alexander Ramsey, determined to crush the uprisingRed Iron, Standing Buffalo, Cut Nose, Inkpaduta, Stephen Riggs and others, each driven by loyalty, vengeance, politics, or survivalDrawing on extensive historical research, author Michael Barnes blends real history with unforgettable human storytelling. The result is a novel that is both educational and deeply emotional-perfect for readers of historical fiction, Native American history, and classroom or book-club discussion.Historically accurate and deeply researchedEmotionally powerful, character-driven storytellingA rare look at the only war fought on Minnesota soilFor fans of Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee, Little House on the Prairie, and Soldier's HeartA moving and essential story of courage, loss, and survival, this novel shines light on one of America's least-known but most defining conflicts. Perfect for adults, students, educators, and anyone who believes history is not just dates-but people.
Elissa's Question
In a world where men make the rules and the Gods enforce them, one young woman dares to question everything.In Ancient Greece, girls are meant to be obedient, silent, and unseen-yet Elissa has never fit the mold. Restless, sharp-witted, and skilled with a javelin, she longs for a life beyond weaving, marriage contracts, and quiet submission. But when a tragic encounter shakes her faith in the justice of her world, Elissa can no longer ignore the truth: the life laid out for her is not the life she wants.Her father urges her to forget, to choose a husband, to conform. Instead, Elissa seeks answers from Athena herself. And when the Goddess stays silent, Elissa makes an unthinkable choice-she will journey to Mount Olympus and demand the Gods reveal a woman's true purpose.Defying her family and every law of Attican society, Elissa escapes into the wilderness. She is soon joined by Teris, a disciplined young warrior sworn to protect her, and Smeme, an eccentric priest of Athena with secrets of his own. Together, they cross the sacred lands of Hellas, trading in Delphi, facing the riddles of the Sphinx, battling Harpies and giants, and confronting horrors born of fear, discord, and divine wrath.For Zeus has noticed her.And he does not intend to let a mortal girl reach the home of the Gods.With storms, monsters, and illusions arrayed against them, Elissa must decide what she is truly seeking-permission, destiny, or freedom itself. Yet the greatest trial may not come from the Gods... but from the courage it takes to shape her own path.A sweeping mythological adventure filled with danger, wonder, and the fierce hope of a young woman determined to defy a world that refuses to see her. Fans of Madeline Miller, Jennifer Saint, and mythic quests with a feminist heart will be enthralled.
A First Fleet Family
Amidst the relentless waves and the vast, unyielding horizon, a family's fate is sealed as they embark on an extraordinary journey to the nascent shores of 18th century Australia. In a world where survival and adaptation are not mere choices but necessities, this historical fiction novel unravels the gripping saga of a family bound by destiny and circumstance. Their story, a poignant tapestry woven with threads of convict transportation and colonial Australian stories, offers a vivid glimpse into the heart of the Sydney Cove settlement. This book was out of print for decades and is now republished by Alpha Editions, offering a rare window into the struggles and triumphs of those who dared to dream amidst adversity. As Australian history enthusiasts and historical fiction readers delve into its pages, they will discover a narrative that resonates with the timeless themes of resilience and hope. The literary echoes of Marcus Clarke and Henry Lawson are felt throughout, capturing the essence of Australian literature with an authenticity that speaks to both the casual reader and the classic-collection buyer. Restored for today's and future generations, this edition is not just a reprint - it's a collector's item and a cultural treasure. Its revival ensures that the stories of those early settlers continue to inspire and enlighten, bridging the past with the present in a compelling testament to the enduring spirit of humanity.
Jack Heaton, Gold Seeker
In the heart of 19th century America, where dreams glittered like gold in the rivers of California, a young adventurer sets out on a perilous journey. This newly republished treasure, long out of print and now lovingly restored by Alpha Editions, invites readers into a world where the pursuit of wealth is as treacherous as it is alluring. Set against the backdrop of the California Gold Rush, this historical fiction offers a vivid tapestry of survival and exploration, echoing the spirited narratives found in Mark Twain novels and Bret Harte stories. The narrative unfolds with the intensity of a classic adventure novel, drawing young adult readers and historical enthusiasts alike into a gripping gold rush tale. As our protagonist navigates the rugged landscapes and tumultuous human encounters, the story reveals the timeless allure and peril of treasure hunting adventures. This edition is not just a reprint-it's a collector's item and a cultural treasure, ensuring that the legacy of this captivating saga endures for today's and future generations. Whether you're a casual reader seeking an enthralling escape or a collector of literary gems, this book stands as a testament to an era that shaped the American spirit. Immerse yourself in a story where history and imagination converge, and discover why this narrative remains a significant cultural artefact.
Light On
Darkness swallowed the room.Some... THING quivered... hovering over Jesse.Don't miss the exciting fourth book in the Becoming Jesse series.Nine-year-old Jesse O'Neil knows his Light. The dazzling Light God gave each of us before we were born. Jesse and his gang sparkle and shine in thrill-digging adventures at his grandmother's magical Windy Hill Farm.But a hurricane of questions swirls around two stolen treasures, plus a mystifying gold egg, and a very curious boy named, 'Nobody'. All the while, Jesse must grapple with a treacherous bully, an odd, menacing scientist, and a long-hidden sorrow. Somewhere between petrified and panicked, Jesse realizes that secrets, sorrows and treachery are doing their best to snuff out his Light. How can Jesse keep his Light On? Open the book! Illuminate Jesse's puzzles and mysteries! Join his whirlwind of daring quests!
Candlemas Eve
Candlemas Eve begins in 1880 in the north of England, in the smoke and fire of the Industrial Revolution. Jack and Celeste Potter find themselves orphaned in a world that is unforgiving to the poor and the friendless. As a result, they embark on separate journeys-Jack emigrating to Trenton, New Jersey, to make his fortune in the pottery industry, and Celeste staying behind to survive as best she can. Their descendants, and the world they help to build, comprise the main characters and the setting of Summer of Smoke.
Summer of Smoke
James Porter was a freshman in high school in 1967-1968. That was the year when his all-white soccer team got assaulted by the fans and players of all-black teams. It was the year when angry, disenfranchised blacks went out of their way to "bump" whites on the streets of Trenton, New Jersey. And finally, in the spring and summer, it was the year when all hell broke loose. Trenton and over 125 other American cities exploded into rioting, burning, and looting following the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.Seven years after those riots, James returns to attend a high school reunion. He hopes to re-connect with old friends, and some enemies, and with the girl who got away. He re-lives the events of that summer, long buried in his memory. He searches for answers to what really happened to his family, to his classmates, and to his city behind the smoke and confusion of that tumultuous time in American history.
Love, Sivvy
This intensely relatable historical novel-in-verse follows the young adult years of the exceptionally talented tortured poet, Sylvia Plath, as she casts off the limiting expectations of American women and forges her own path. Perfect for fans of Girl in Pieces.​ Sylvia Plath knows she was born to be remembered. She loves learning, literature, and writing, especially poetry. The problem is, she's coming of age in a time when women are expected to happily set aside their dreams for a husband and a home. Even in high school, Sylvia struggles to reconcile the societal expectations placed on women and the ambitions she has for a great career. She aches for a partner and a family, but she longs to become a poet, too. And she's afraid she can't have both. ​Covering her high school and college years, and capturing her many highs and lows as she wrestled with her mental health and blazing talent, Love, Sivvy is a beautifully rendered portrait of one of the most incandescent poets of all time. Sylvia Plath knows she was born to be remembered. She loves learning, literature, and writing, especially poetry. The problem is, she's coming of age in a time when women are expected to happily set aside their dreams for a husband and a home. Even in high school, Sylvia struggles to reconcile the societal expectations placed on women and the ambitions she has for a great career. She aches for a partner and a family, but she longs to become a poet, too. And she's afraid she can't have both. ​Covering her high school and college years, and capturing her many highs and lows as she wrestled with her mental health and blazing talent, Love, Sivvy is a beautifully rendered portrait of one of the most incandescent poets of all time.
Mabel's Little House in the Park
Mabel is a little girl with a big imagination, and there's one thing she's always wondered about-the old house in the park with its shutters tightly closed. What could be inside?Every time she passes by, Mabel dreams of secret rooms and forgotten treasures hidden behind those shuttered windows. One sunny afternoon, to her surprise, the shutters were open! With her heart full of curiosity and her mind brimming with adventure, Mabel sets off to discover the secrets the house is keeping.Join Mabel on a heartwarming adventure full of wonder, imagination, and the joy of discovering the unknown!
Mabel's Little House in the Park
Mabel is a little girl with a big imagination, and there's one thing she's always wondered about-the old house in the park with its shutters tightly closed. What could be inside?Every time she passes by, Mabel dreams of secret rooms and forgotten treasures hidden behind those shuttered windows. One sunny afternoon, to her surprise, the shutters were open! With her heart full of curiosity and her mind brimming with adventure, Mabel sets off to discover the secrets the house is keeping.Join Mabel on a heartwarming adventure full of wonder, imagination, and the joy of discovering the unknown!
Mr. Kuroki's Garden
An uplifting picture book about the true story of a man who planted thousands of his wife's favorite flower in their small Japanese town after she suffers the loss of her sight. An epic love story that delights young readers. Mr. and Mrs. Kuroki live in Japan. They dream of traveling to distant countries once their cows are old and their children have grown up. But before this dream can come true, tragedy strikes. Mrs. Kuroki loses her sight, and with it, her joy for life. Determined to ease his wife's sorrow, Mr. Kuroki decides to create an immense garden filled with his wife's favorite flower, the Shibazakura. This breathtaking and unique garden soon gains attention from all over the world. Over time, visitors arrive, eager to witness with their own eyes the place where a man's love has blossomed in an effort to bring back his wife's smile. Inspired by a true story, this poignant album, rich in poetic depth, beautifully illustrates human resilience, love, and beauty. Ohara Hale, drawing from her Japanese heritage and memories of her grandmother, infuses this story with the warmth and delicacy of a timeless Japan, bringing the touching tale of the Kurokis to life.
Father of the Lost Boys for Younger Readers
Once, there was a man who rescued 20,000 boys from almost certain death. That man was my father. One of those boys was me. This is our story.During the Second Sudanese Civil War, thousands of boys were displaced or orphaned. In 1989, Mecak Ajang Alaak led the Lost Boys on a four-year journey from Ethiopia to Kenya to protect them from becoming child soldiers. This is the abridged account of that extraordinary true story.
Christopher Hawkins and His Daring Escapes (Young Readers Edition)
Christopher Hawkins and His Daring Escapes: A Revolutionary War Novel is the true story of a young sailor and patriot in the Revolutionary War. In 1777, the American Revolution is raging, and 12-year-old Christopher Hawkins runs away to join a privateer fighting against England. His ship is captured, but he later escapes from the British. At 17, Christopher again joins a privateer and once more is captured by the British. This time he is sent to the HMS Jersey, the war's deadliest prison ship. Armed with only courage, cunning, and a sense of humor, Christopher Hawkins faces death as he escapes twice more from his captors. This novel is expanded and adapted from Christopher Hawkins' memoir. The main character is the author's 4th great-grandfather. Hawkins' story has been recorded in several texts on the Revolutionary War. This book is for children ages 9-14 and adults.
The Ghost Of The Charlotte Lighthouse
On a cliff overlooking Lake Ontario, the Genesee River, and the port of Rochester, New York, a lonely lighthouse stood watch. Its windows were boarded up and its roof was leaking. Its face was dirty and its light had long since gone out. Its front door was hidden with brush and its stairs were crumbling. But maybe you wouldn't look so good either if you were 127 years old! From inside the lighthouse tower came the sound of scratching, but no one was there to hear it. That is, no human ears were there to hear it because the lighthouse had been abandoned for eighteen years. Across town, life was very different. Susan B. Anthony School #27 was vibrating with energy. For this class, saving the Charlotte-Genesee Lighthouse would become more than just a school project, it would become the adventure of a lifetime.
Lioness
As the teenage princess of Brigantia, Morgan is caught between a brutal Roman empire and the warrior legacy of Queen Boudicca. The choices she makes could change everything - for her people, her family, and her heart.Thrown into a world of spies, battles, and betrayal, Morgan must figure out who to trust, what to fight for, and how to survive. But with danger around every corner - and unexpected love in the mix - growing up fast might be the only way to stay alive.Lioness is a gripping tale of courage, conflict, and love in an age of legends.
The Road from Nowhere
Inside one of America's most troubled periods of economic crisis, The Road From Nowhere, from master storyteller and Newbery medalist Avi, is both a tightly plotted adventure and a big-hearted tale of boyhood that explores what it means to put a name to the feelings we're taught to push down far into the earth. There's one road in Gatchett's Gluch--population forty-five--a silver mining town in the high Colorado desert. That means there's only one way in and one way out.Fourteen-year-old Ollie feels trapped and restless, desperate to find his own lode of silver, so he can gain riches and get his family out of the town. As the man of the house, he feels that's his job, just as his younger brother Gus's job is to ask question after question. Though Ollie is unwilling to admit it, he doesn't have all the answers. He can't even read, unlike Alys, the only girl and only friend he has outside of Gus.Meanwhile, a man who calls himself a geologist has arrived in town. Not only can he read books, he can read rocks, the first person that Ollie has ever seen who looks at rocks with fascination, not desperation. Most important, he knows how to stake a silver claim. So when Ollie, Gus, and Alys stumble upon a cave rich with silver and form a friendship with that geologist, the future suddenly looks good. The problem: Elijah Gatchett runs the Gulch and claims all its silver. Men have been kicked out--or shot at--for seeking it on their own. But for the kids, the only thing worse than their families staying under Gatchett's thumb is getting run out of town with not so much as a penny in their pockets.The kids are desperate to find an answer. It may lay in that dark cave. How Ollie, Gus, and Alys navigate all this--with a surprising ending--is an old-west adventure that has never been told before.
Max in the Land of Lies
Instant New York Times bestseller! USA Today bestseller! "A heartrending masterpiece of middle-grade historical fiction.″ -Booklist, starred review "The whip-smart combination of intrigue and adventure along with thought-provoking reflection makes for a nail-biting, laugh-out loud, stop-and-think read." -School Library Journal, starred review "A headlong thriller laced with provocative and topical historical truths." -Kirkus, starred review Max Bretzfeld is back in Berlin where his most dangerous mission is about to begin! The thrilling conclusion to the World War II spy duology that began with Max in the House of Spies. Max is on a mission.Well, two missions. One has been assigned by his British spymasters: Infiltrate the Funkhaus, the center of Nazi radio and propaganda. The other they have forbidden: Find his parents. Max Bretzfeld was willing to do anything to return to Germany, even become a British spy. Training complete and forged papers in hand, the radio wunderkind's missions have begun. But nothing is as he expected. His parents are missing. Nazi intelligence is watching him. And the lines between lies and truth are becoming more blurred every day. Max will need every tool at his disposal, from his radio expertise and spy training to the help of Berg and Stein, the immortal creatures living on his shoulders. Even so, there's no guarantee he'll make it out of Berlin alive.
The Ravenmaster's Boy
There's more to you than meets the eye...So many people tell Kit this that he thinks he must look very nondescript indeed. The thing is: they are right. Kit Wagstaffe, rescued from a plague cart, is taken into the household of the Ravenmaster at the Tower of London and learns how to speak the language of the big black birds, who are also not what they seem.It is 1536 and Kit's secret knowledge comes in handy when he wants to help the condemned Queen Anne. It is a time of treason, accusations and blood and there are moments when young Kit wonders if he will escape with his head.
Yara's Green Hope
This series consists of children's storybooks written in the style of fairytales. Each book presents a complete narrative designed to introduce young readers to moral lessons, good behavior, and the value of curiosity. The stories employ elements of fantasy-such as talking animals, magical settings, and imaginative characters-to simplify complex ideas and make ethical principles accessible to children.The overarching purpose of the series is educational rather than purely entertaining. The narratives emphasize attitudes such as kindness, patience, honesty, generosity, and respect for others. In addition, they encourage children to ask questions about the world around them and to explore knowledge with a sense of wonder.Some of the volumes draw inspiration from Palestinian folklore, adapting traditional tales into a child-friendly format that preserves their cultural significance while highlighting universal values. Others are original stories crafted in the fairytale tradition but aligned with the same moral focus.Together, the books form a coherent collection that blends imagination with instruction, using storytelling as a medium for teaching character and ethical awareness in early childhood.This book; Yara's Green Hope is a children's story that combines elements of everyday life in Gaza with fairytale-style narrative. It follows Yara, a young girl who lives with her grandmother, Sitti Sabira, in a small village surrounded by olive trees and enduring the challenges of blockade and scarcity. Despite hardships, Yara and her grandmother find strength in their faith, patience, and in cultivating a small garden of herbs, which they sell in the market to provide for their needs. The story emphasizes resilience, gratitude, and the moral value of hard work, while portraying the bond between generations and the sustaining power of hope.The book also includes a traditional-style fairytale embedded within it: the tale of King Casimir, Princess Amira, and the ghoul Grime. This tale highlights bravery, cleverness, and the triumph of good over evil, as the young hero Hasan-helped by Willow-defeats the monster through courage and persistence.Together, these parallel narratives present a blend of cultural memory and universal moral lessons. The story of Yara reflects real struggles shaped by place and circumstance, while the fairytale offers a timeless allegory of faith, love, and perseverance. Both parts work in harmony to guide children toward understanding the values of patience, courage, kindness, and hope.
Village of Scoundrels
In Village of Scoundrels, Newbery Honor recipient Margi Preus tells the incredible true story of a group of French teenagers who helped save refugees in WWII. Based on the true story of the French villagers in WWII who saved thousands of Jews, this compelling novel tells how a group of young teenagers stood up for what is right. Among them is a young Jewish boy who learns to forge documents to save his mother and later goes on to save hundreds of lives with his forgery skills. There is also a girl who overcomes her fear to carry messages for the Resistance. And a boy who smuggles people into Switzerland. But there is always the threat that they will be caught: A policeman is sent to keep an eye on them, German soldiers reside in a local hotel, and eventually the Gestapo arrives, armed with guns and a list of names. As the knot tightens, the young people must race against time to bring their friends to safety. "Preus conveys the tales of heroism and resistance of the village teens with a story that is filled with suspense and intrigue . . . Readers will be inspired by these teens that stood for what is right and who, through their actions, saved the lives." --School Library Connection (Starred Review)
Faraway Home
Karl and Rosa's family watch in horror as Hitler's troops parade down the streets of their home city -- Vienna. It has become very dangerous to be a Jew in Austria, and after their uncle is sent to Dachau, Karl and Rosa's parents decide to send the children out of the country on a Kindertransport, one of the many ships carrying refugee children away from Nazi danger.Isolated and homesick, Karl ends up in Millisle, a run-down farm in Ards in Northern Ireland, which has become a Jewish refugee centre, while Rosa is fostered by a local family.Hard work on the farm keeps Karl occupied, although he still waits desperately for any news from home. Then he makes friends with locals Peewee and Wee Billy, and also with the girls from neutral Dublin who come to help on the farm, especially Judy. But Northern Ireland is in the war too, with rationing and air-raid warnings, and, in April 1941 the bombs of the Belfast Blitz bring the reality of war right to their doorstep.And for Karl and Rosa and the other refugees there is the constant fear that they may never see their parents again.Based on a true story -- there was a refugee farm at Millisle and among its occupants was a young boy called Karl.
Under the London Sky
A thrilling YA historical fiction novel from renowned children's author, Anna Woltz A Telegraph best new children's book A Daily Mail book of the year London, September 1940. Deep in the Underground, taking shelter from the bombs, four teenagers meet. Without the Blitz, they never would have met. Fourteen-year-old Ella walks with a limp. Some days, she feels like a laughing stock. Other days, like no one sees her at all. Quinn is fifteen, fancy and fearless. She's run away from home with a bag of family jewels and big ideas about changing the world. Jack is sixteen and doesn't care about anything anymore - he's already lost it all. And then there's Sebastian, Quinn's older brother. He used to be her hero. Until he became a traitor A coming-of-age historical novel for teens from internationally bestselling children's author, Anna Woltz.
Seeds of Rebellion
What if you could travel back to the moment America was born?When Rose is catapulted from modern-day Williamsburg to 1774, she's plunged into a city alive with rebellion, danger, and secrets. With Pearl risking everything in the past and Nathaniel decoding clues in the present, Rose is swept into a dangerous plot on the eve of the American Revolution that could change history forever. Together, they must uncover hidden clues, face dangerous choices, and solve a mystery before history itself is rewritten.Seeds of Rebellion blends real history with thrilling adventure for readers 8-14. Perfect for fans of Magic Tree House, I Survived, and American Girl books.Welcome to the History Detective Club-where history doesn't feel like homework.And if you grew up with Nancy Drew, Trixie Belden, or The Hardy Boys, you'll love sharing this mystery series with your child.
Hans Brinker; Or, The Silver Skates
An unforgettable winter adventure that will steal your heart at first glide Hans Brinker; Or, The Silver Skates returns as a restored classic for a new generation. Mary Mapes Dodge s beloved Dutch winter tale follows brave Hans Brinker and his sister Gretel as they skate the frozen canals of the 19th-century Netherlands, dreaming of the coveted silver skates and struggling to keep their family afloat. Equal parts ice skating story, family adventure, and moral lesson, this young adult classic weaves competitions on the canal with quieter acts of courage from selfless sacrifice to the boy who helps avert a disastrous breach in the dike creating a moving portrait of honor, perseverance, and small-town heroism. First published in 1865, this seminal piece of classic children's literature helped shape historical fiction and winter sports novels for young readers worldwide. Dodge s sensitive storytelling offers both lively outdoor scenes and timeless moral lessons, making the book as appealing to casual readers as to collectors and scholars of 19th-century Netherlands life. This edition from Alpha Editions marks the return of a book that was out of print for decades. Carefully restored and republished for today s and future generations, this volume is more than a reprint it s a collector s item and cultural treasure, enriched for modern readers while preserving Dodge s original charm. Perfect for lovers of Hans Brinker, The Silver Skates, historical fiction, and enduring tales of family and courage.
In The Line
A spirited underdog tale that crackles with the energy of the locker room and the moral weight of the classroom In The Line returns to inspire a new generation. Set in the early 20th century, this coming of age story follows a group of American schoolboys navigating high school athletics, romantic rivalries, and the tests of character that define youth sports. With vivid scenes of football practice, locker-room camaraderie, and decisive game-day moments, the novel explores teamwork and friendship, sportsmanship values, and character development as boys grow into men. Balanced between fast-paced action and reflective moral lessons, it reads as both an inspirational sports story and a thoughtful young adult sports novel. Long out of print, this classic sports literature gem by Albertus T. Dudley has been lovingly restored and republished by Alpha Editions. Meticulous editing preserves Dudley s early 20th century fiction voice while making the text accessible for today s readers students, coaches, collectors, and classic literature lovers alike. More than a reprint, this edition is a collector s item and cultural treasure: restored for today s and future generations with a fresh foreword and archival-quality formatting. Perfect for fans of high school athletics tales and anyone drawn to American school life, In The Line is a timeless reminder that courage, loyalty, and integrity are the real victories. Rediscover a cornerstone of classic sports literature.
In The Days Of The Guild
A lost world of hammers, hemp, and honor comes alive step into the bustling workshops and shadowed lanes of medieval Europe where guilds shaped every life. Louise Lamprey s In The Days Of The Guild is a vivid historical fiction that follows young apprentices, master artisans, and the fierce customs of guild life as they navigate craft, loyalty, and coming-of-age in the Middle Ages. Rich with scenes of medieval trade, craftsmanship stories, and artisan tales, the novel blends educational fiction and historical adventure to teach readers about guild rules, market fairs, and the pride of workmanship that defined an era. Lamprey s storytelling brings to life the rhythms of daily toil, the intrigue of apprenticeship, and the communal spirit that forged towns and trades. This edition from Alpha Editions restores a title long out of print for decades, carefully revised and presented for today s and future generations. More than a reprint, this volume is a collector s item and cultural treasure ideal for casual readers who crave immersive middle ages storytelling and classic literature collectors seeking a restored gem. Perfect for young readers historical collections, classroom libraries, and anyone fascinated by medieval guilds, medieval Europe, and the human stories behind artisan traditions. Rediscover a lost chapter of history through the eyes of those who made it where every trade had rules, every tool had meaning, and every tale was hammered into the fabric of the guild.
Army Boys Marching Into Germany
A rousing march into history follow the Stars and Stripes as young American soldiers cross the Rhine in a vivid World War I adventure that blends courage, camaraderie, and coming-of-age drama. Army Boys Marching Into Germany: Or, Over The Rhine With The Stars And Stripes by Homer Randall follows a band of spirited young recruits as they advance into Germany during the waning days of the Great War. Equal parts military fiction and adventurous youth tale, this historical war novel captures patrols, skirmishes, and the quieter moments of friendship that define American soldiers in Germany. Readers will find brisk action, heartfelt patriotism, and authentic period detail that illuminate early 20th century military history and the Rhine River campaign through the eyes of eager, untested boys turned veterans. Long out of print, this classic wartime literature has been lovingly restored and republished by Alpha Editions. More than a reprint, this edition is a collector s item and cultural treasure meticulously edited for clarity, rebuilt for durability, and presented for today s readers and future generations. Perfect for fans of patriotic youth stories, Homer Randall books, and anyone seeking young adult war stories or the army boys series that shaped a generation s view of service and sacrifice. A must-have for casual readers and classic literature collectors alike, this volume revives a spirited slice of history: the Stars and Stripes on the Rhine, told as only early 20th century military fiction can.
Alexander the Great
Newly translated, this classic novel is sure to delight readers of all ages as it explores the legendary conqueror's life, ambitions, and humanity.Nikos Kazantzakis's Alexander the Great is a biographical novel about one of antiquity's greatest political and military leaders. In Kazantzakis's story, Alexander of Macedonia does not conquer for conquest's sake; instead, he seeks to spread the light of Hellenism to the known world, unite humanity through Greek ideals and culture, and bring together East and West.The story begins in Pella, the lavish capital of Macedonia, in the fourth century BCE. A teenager named Stefanos rushes to the royal stadium for a remarkable event that has drawn every male citizen of this capital city: the taming of a wild and uniquely powerful horse named Bucephalus. Relying on raw strength and force, even seasoned generals fail to subdue Bucephalus; but through skill, kindness, and insight, the fifteen-year-old Alexander is able to befriend the beast. Alexander's symbolic taming of chaos foretells his rise to power and demonstrates the qualities he will carry with him throughout his lifelong campaign of conquest.Through the eyes of Stefanos, who becomes Alexander's personal attendant and most trusted companion, Kazantzakis follows the Macedonian army through triumphant campaigns across Persia, Egypt, and India, greatly expanding the boundaries of the ancient Hellenic world. Kazantzakis presents Alexander not only as an ingenious military strategist but also as a reflective human being. Alexander oscillates between the human and the divine but will ultimately be betrayed by the former. Kazantzakis narrates Alexander's struggles and conquests all the way to Babylon, where he meets his untimely death at just thirty-three years of age.This iconic novel also explores Alexander's profound relationship with his mentor, Aristotle, who instills in him a lifelong thirst for knowledge. Alexander the Great offers a compelling blend of history, myth, and philosophy and will appeal to readers fascinated by ancient Greece, epic heroes, and humanity's timeless quest for the meaning of life.
Lucky Dog Comes Home
A WWII veteran finds joy in his community as the new mailman, who, along with a few dogs, brings hope back to a grieving community. George lives a peaceful life on his family farm in Indiana until he is recruited for the US army for WWII. While George longed to go back home throughout the war, home is a very different place when he returns. His family farm has been sold and George must find a new job. Though he swore he would never wear a uniform again, George becomes a letter carrier. Then, something unexpected and miraculous happens--friendly neighborhood dogs begin following him on his daily route. As the parade of dogs quickly grows each day, so too does the joy spread in a community still healing from loss. John Spray's stepfather is the inspiration behind the character George, who was a celebrated WWII veteran and post-war letter carrier--loved by both the people and dogs in his small town, Lafayette, Indiana. Scot Ritchie illustrates with powerful depth and humor. .
Can You Keep a Secret?
Set in a rural town in South West France from 1940 to 1944, Can You Keep a Secret? examines the effect of the German occupation on the community, as seen through the eyes of a nine-year-old child. Living with a teenage brother and parents who own a caf矇 in the market square, the child regularly escapes to a secret world in the forests to play with friends. Meanwhile, the atmosphere in the town progressively darkens, and the caf矇 becomes central to the operation of the local black market and the growing resistance movement. The child's curiosity is later aroused by the arrival of a mysterious female guest who takes a room above the caf矇, and soon the adult world of a secret agent and the child's world of secret hideouts become inextricably entangled. Intended for young readers, the good vs. evil tale in this book illustrates the importance of honesty, reliability, and trustworthiness against the backdrop of wartime resistance in occupied France.
Everything Is Poison
This historical novel in prose and verse tells the story of a deadly secret hiding in plain sight and of the women who risk everything to provide care for those with nowhere else to turn, perfect for fans of Blood Water Paint and The Lost Apothecary. Early Seventeenth-Century RomeFor as long as she can remember, Carmela Tofana has desperately wanted one thing: to be allowed behind the counter of her mother's apothecary in Campo Marzio, Rome. When she turns sixteen, she's finally allowed into the inner sanctum: the workroom where her mother, Giulia Tofana, and two assistants craft renowned remedies for their customers. But for every sweet-smelling flower extract in the workroom, there's another potion requiring darker ingredients. And then there's Aqua Tofana, the apothecary's remedy of last resort for husbands who are just as deadly as any disease. In all Carmela's years of wishing to follow in her mother's footsteps, she never realized one tiny vial could be the death of them all. One the Chicago Public Library's Best Books of the Year
The Kennedy Chronicles
The 21st century teenage experience of living for God is one like none other. Times have changed but God still remains true to His Word no matter the situation. Meet Kennedy, a Bi-racial fourteen year old whose life is turned upside down during a freak rainstorm in Southern California. But after the Event that steals the life of her little sister and the soul of her African-American mother, her Caucasian father goes into survival mode, leaving her and twin brother KJ to fend for themselves. Just when things are on the brink of spinning out of control, Grandma - a God fearing, faith-filled woman - steps in and moves the family to Virginia to help nurse her daughter back to health and to get the family back on track. The Kennedy Chronicles: Losing Rylie is the first in a trilogy that takes its readers through a myriad of emotions that deal with authentic, humorous, mildly romantic, and sensitive situations. It is far from a fairy-tale and modern readers with even a hint of spirituality will relate to the challenges faced by Kennedy and her family and find inspiration in her journey. It speaks to a relationship with a true God and deals with the age-old question, "Why does God let bad things happen to good people?" It delves into the heart, soul, and mind of today's teenager with all of the pressures of just living in this fallen world. What will life bring her in Virginia? Will her mom ever snap out of her depression? And does God really hear her when she cries?Endorsement: Through heartwarming and heartbreaking moments, Kennedy's struggle in being a minority, a Christian, and a teenage girl were not only relatable, but real life issues. Losing Rylie, put me through a myriad of emotions. I laughed, blushed, cried, and got angry right along with Kennedy. I felt what she felt and her experiences turned into mine as well. As a Christian teenager in modern America, I understand how easy it can be to slip away from God and into the world. Losing Rylie presented Kennedy to me as not only a role model, but also as an example of how to come to God with all of my issues and struggles, especially when times get tough.-Madison K. - age 17; James Wood High SchoolAbout the Author: Clarissa Lee-Kennerly knew at an early age that God called her to write. Compelled to write more personal non-fiction novels like "My Husband's Not Saved" which was published in 2008, and having worked with teenagers all of her careers, she was inspired to write a contemporary novel that teens today can relate to and still experience God's love. She resides in Virginia with her husband and two childrenÿ?
