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The Kwanzaa Story

Alliah L. Agostini

Discover the history and importance of Kwanzaa, a week-long December holiday celebrated in Black, African, and African American culture. 

In The Kwanzaa Story, little Alliah (of The Juneteenth Story fame) is all grown up and, along with her husband LeVaur, teaches their children Daphne and Alistair why they celebrate Kwanzaa as a family and as a community. This beautifully illustrated storybook shares the origins of the holiday—rooted in Africa, born in Los Angeles—giving historical and cultural context on how a joyful celebration was birthed after the Watts Rebellion and during the Civil Rights Movement. The journey includes:

 

  • The history of the holiday, complete with timeline
  • Key figures of the Civil Rights Movement and their part in the creation of Kwanzaa
  • The seven guiding principles of Kwanzaa, known as Nguza Saba
  • The seven core symbols used during Kwanzaa rituals, including the kinara (candle holder) and the mishumaa saba (the seven candles in red, green, and black)
  • How Kwanzaa is celebrated today
  • And more!


2025 marks the 60th observance of Kwanzaa. The Kwanzaa Story offers Black, African, and African American children the opportunity to connect with their culture and the holiday in a meaningful way, and to see themselves and their family traditions represented on the page with accuracy and joy. This book also exposes children of different backgrounds to a new end-of-year cultural celebration, taking them on an engaging and educational journey about the principles and traditions of the holiday. This visually captivating guide to understanding Kwanzaa encourages young readers to connect with the holiday and its social impact. 

Follow along as Alliah and her family discover the cultural significance of Kwanzaa's principles and symbols, providing a tangible element to the holiday that will allow kids and family members to fully and joyfully participate in its celebration. Readers of all ages will love learning about the amazing history and traditions of Kwanzaa through the wise and educational storytelling in The Kwanzaa Story.


The Holiday Celebration series from becker&mayer! kids honors the diverse holidays and milestones that shape the cultural fabric of the United States. Though these traditions may have originated elsewhere, brought to our shores by ancestors from around the world, they have endured and evolved to weave the vibrant tapestry of American life. The series includes picture books and their companion kid-friendly cookbooks that share stories uniquely representative of the American experience—an experience that is multilayered, eclectic, inclusive, and joyfully beautiful.

Also available from the series:The Juneteenth Story, The Juneteenth Cookbook, The Dia de Los Muertos Story, and The Dia de Los Muertos Cookbook.

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Hanukkah

Lesléa Newman

Discover the joy and meaning of Hanukkah, the Jewish festival of lights.

Lior and his parents, aunties, uncles, grandparents, and cousins are inviting you to celebrate with them! Join in as they make latkes, light the Menorah, recite the Hanukkah blessings, play the dreidel game, and share presents.

Along the way, you’ll learn how Hanukkah is an eight-day celebration marked by the daily lighting of a new candle on the Menorah. It brings the Jewish community together by commemorating the victory of the Maccabees over the Greeks.

This bright and engaging picture book covers:
 

  • The Miracle of Hanukkah
  • The delicious food eaten, such as latkes, noodle kugel, Shabbat, and sufganiyot
  • The fun to be had playing the dreidel game
  • How the Menorah is lit every night using the Shamash
  • The community celebrations at the Synagogue



and more!

…and this glowing gift book is further brought to life with:
 

  • Instructions to make an edible Menorah
  • A guide to make a Hanukkah tzedakah box
  • A recipe for delicious latkes and apple sauce



In this immersive exploration of Hanukkah, young readers join a practicing family as they commemorate the miracle of Hanukkah. Seen through the eyes of young children celebrating themselves, this is a simple and exciting way to introduce little ones to this important Jewish occasion.

Part of the Celebrations & Festivals series, you are invited into a family's celebrations as you explore the magic and excitement of religious and cultural festivals around the world.

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North for the Winter

Bobby Podesta

A fun, heartwarming holiday adventure about a girl, a flying reindeer, and the biggest Christmas mission ever!

When Virginia (yes, Virginia) spots a real flying reindeer in the sky, she can hardly believe her eyes. She’s just moved to a new city, she misses her mom, and nothing feels right—until magic quite literally lands in her life. But when she tells her neighbor Benny what she saw, he’s sure of it—this has to be Santa business.

Now Virginia and Benny have to help the lost reindeer find its way back to the North Pole before Christmas! Along the way, they’ll face sneaky hunters, suspiciously convincing department store elves, and even the people who track Santa on radar.

Get ready for a hilarious, heartwarming graphic novel about friendship, courage, and keeping the spirit of Christmas alive—no matter what.

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Why We Celebrate Hanukkah

Stacia Deutsch

Celebrate Hanukkah with this festive introduction for kids ages 6 to 9!

Hanukkah is a Jewish holiday that is also called the Festival of Lights. For thousands of years, Jewish people have celebrated Hanukkah by lighting candles, chanting prayers, and playing games! Learn all about the history, traditions, food, and more with this book of facts and activities that encourage you to join in on the fun.
 

  • So many ways to get festive—Discover how Hanukkah is celebrated by different people around the world with songs, gifts, and gatherings.
  • Celebrate at home—Kids will explore Hanukkah customs with included activities like making your own stained-glass menorah decoration and learning how to play dreidel.
  • Fascinating facts and pictures—Vibrant illustrations and kid-friendly language help bring Hanukkah to life.



Discover Why We Celebrate Hanukkah!

Have you ever wondered why we exchange gifts on Valentine's Day? Or why we wear green on St. Patrick's Day? Get the rest of the Why We Celebrate series and learn about holidays from around the world!

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Bear and Bird: the Secret and Other Stories

Jarvis

A secret is in the air as the unlikely friends return in four more stories threaded with Jarvis's signature warmth and subtle humor.

Best friends Bear and Bird may not always understand each other, but they always want the other to be happy. So when Bird feels left out because Bear has given a cute nickname to everyone but her, she's relieved when her hasty list of names for Bear doesn't reach him (Stinky Sock Muffin, anyone?). And when the two of them learn they have zero dislikes in common--from lasagna to chess to the word armadillo--and wonder if they can still be friends, they soon realize there's one important dislike they can both agree on. Whether the challenge is being hopeless at keeping a secret (Bear), or getting befuddled about the rules for hide-and-seek (Bear again), this ever-endearing pair continue to charm in a sixth set of gentle stories.

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Buffalo Dreamer

Violet Duncan

NATIONAL BOOK AWARD FINALIST

An illuminating novel about the importance of reclaiming the past, based on the author’s family history

Summer and her family always spend relaxed summers in Alberta, Canada, on the reservation where her mom’s family lives. But this year is turning out to be an eye-opening one. First, Summer has begun to have vivid dreams in which she's running away from one of the many real-life residential schools that tore Native children from their families and tried to erase their Native identities. Not long after that, she learns that unmarked children’s graves have been discovered at the school her grandpa attended as a child. Now more folks are speaking up about their harrowing experiences at these places, including her grandfather. Summer cherishes her heritage and is heartbroken about all her grandfather was forced to give up and miss out on. When the town holds a rally, she’s proud to take part to acknowledge the painful past and speak of her hopes for the future, and anxious to find someone who can fill her in on the source of her unsettling dreams.

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Jessi Ramsey, Pet-Sitter: a Graphic Novel (the Baby-sitters Club #18)

Ann M. Martin

A Baby-sitters Club graphic novel adapted by National Book Award longlister and Eisner-nominated cartoonist Ellen T. Crenshaw!

 

The Mancusis don't have any kids... but they sure do have a lot of pets! So when they're desperate for a sitter, who do they call? The Baby-sitters Club! Kristy feels pretty sure that the BSC does not pet-sit. But Jessi has always liked animals, and she talks Kristy into being okay with her taking the job.

With snakes on the loose and sick hamsters, Jessi's got plenty of pet-sitting troubles, and things don't get any easier when she and her friends get into a big fight. Will Jessi be able to handle her pet-sitting job when things are going wrong with the baby-sitters, too?

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Freakiest Trip Ever!

Wanda Coven

In this hilarious sixth middle grade book in the Middle School and Other Disasters series that started with New York Times bestseller Worst Broommate Ever!, witch-in-training Heidi Heckelbeck has a new rival. 

When a new student comes to Broomsfield Academy, Mrs. Kettledrum informs the students she is an extra-talented witch-in-training. At first Heidi is intrigued and wants to be friends, but when Jodi tells Heidi she intends to be the best witch ever, a competition brews between them and bubbles over while on a field trip to a museum—which becomes more dangerous than either could have imagined!

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The Very Hungry Caterpillar Eats Breakfast

Eric Carle

Join The Very Hungry Caterpillar for one of his favorite meals of the day: breakfast!

The Very Hungry Caterpillar is very hungry . . . for breakfast! With die-cut pages, a simple narrative, and beautiful artwork from Eric Carle, this interactive board book is the perfect way to introduce the most important meal of the day. From muffins and pancakes to eggs and fruit, there's something everyone will enjoy. This book will become a staple in the kitchen for even the littlest food critic in training!

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Oh No! Dinosaurs in the Supermarket

Timothy Knapman

Going to the supermarket can be SO BORING. But do you know what makes it fun? DINOSAURS, that's what! A funny, visual treat for children who love dinosaurs.

For one little boy, a regular day at the supermarket is turned upside down. A band of dinosaurs wreak havoc in the aisles, but the grown-ups can't see them! Can he convince the dinosaurs to behave? And, more importantly, who will mop up the mess?

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Who Would Win?: the Ultimate Rumble Collection (8 Book Bind-Up)

Jerry Pallotta

Over 100 mighty animals face off in this exciting bind-up featuring EIGHT books in this action-packed bestselling animal series!

 

Which deadly animals would win in a fight? Find out in this incredible bind-up of eight books in the popularWho Would Win?series!

The collection features a range of mammals, sea creatures, reptiles, and prehistoric creatures to satisfy all kinds of animal fans, including: Ultimate Bug Rumble, Ultimate Jungle Rumble, Ultimate Dinosaur Rumble, Ultimate Shark Rumble, Ultimate Small Shark Rumble, Ultimate Pterosaur Rumble, Ultimate Reptile Rumble, and Ultimate Ocean Rumble.

Kids will learn about each animal's anatomy, behavior, and more alongside photos, charts, illustrations, and amazing facts. Over 100 animals featured within!

  • Ideal for animal enthusiasts
  • Discover incredible facts about your all-time favourite beasts
  • All of the best of the Who Would Win?series in one amazing bind up
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Creepy Crawly Fact Frenzy!

PENELOPE S. NELSON

There's a CREEPY CRAWLY FACT FRENZY headed your way! Did you know the Goliath birdeater spider can grow to be a foot long? Or that a dragonfly can fly 20 miles per hour? Dozens of bite-size creepy crawly facts are paired with surprising bug photos, welcoming in even the most reluctant readers. Whether kids are in the mood to browse or to devour a book from cover to cover, even a dedicated fan of all things creepy crawly is sure to learn something surprising as they flip through these pages.

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Itsy Bitsy Spider

Jane Cabrera

Wheeeee! Come and play for a day at the Itsy Bitsy Splishy Splashy Bug Water park in this energetic reimagining of a favorite nursery rhyme in Jane Cabrera's Story Time Collection.

Itsy Bitsy Spider climbed up the water spout.
Down came the rain and washed the spider out.

Itsy Bitsy Spider found it so much fun.
He asked all his friends if they would come along!

Itsy Bitsy Spider can't wait for the rain to come down--that's when he gets to ride his bug water slide! But not all of his bug friends know how to swim. They'll have to put their heads together to dream up a different way to have fun. Jane Cabrera accompanies this sing-along classic with upbeat illustrations and cheerful text that will have young readers and parents eagerly turning the pages.

Jane Cabrera's Story Time celebrates children's best-loved read-along nursery rhymes and songs. These interactive favorites are given a new twist by award-winning artist Jane Cabrera and feature her bold, bright, kid-friendly illustrations. Other titles in the series include The Wheels on the Bus, Old Mother Hubbard, Old MacDonald Had a Farm, and more!

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Midnight on the Moon Graphic Novel

Mary Pope Osborne

Magic. Mystery. Time-travel. Get whisked away to the Moon on an out-of-this-world adventure with brother-and-sister team Jack and Annie in the #1 bestselling chapter book series, now available as graphic novels!

Jack and Annie are on a mission to save their friend, Morgan le Fey. The magic tree house whisks them away to the . . . MOON! And not only are they on the moon, but they’ve traveled to the FUTURE! This is like no other adventure Jack and Annie have been on before. This mission is OUT OF THIS WORLD!

For the first time in graphic novel--live the adventure again with new full-color vibrant art that brings the magic to life!

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The World's Wonders

Gloria Cruz

Embark on a global adventure and discover amazing wonders in this book in the nonfiction Level 2 Ready-to-Read Kids Around the World series with relatable and fun facts, playful illustrations, and interactive backmatter.

Explore the ancient pyramids of Egypt, dive deep into the Great Barrier Reef, climb the tallest of towers, and more. Set out on a journey to see remarkable landmarks across the globe!

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Bounce Back 3: Sew Totally Nala

Misako Rocks!

This is age-appropriate, kid-friendly manga for kids - both elementary and middle school - that tells a story about friendship, fashion, and fun! Perfect for fans of Raina Telgemeier and Shannon Hale. 

Nala loves fashion – especially kawaii fashion, inspired by Japanese streetwear. And Nala is about to have the best summer ever, as she attends a special fashion camp in the city. 

Fashion camp is challenging, and there are other kids attending who are really talented. Nala wants to stay true to her designs, but wonders if they will measure up. As her self-doubt grows, she is visited by a squirrel named Timothy, who claims he can help her. But what does a squirrel know about fashion?

Timothy may prefer peanuts to kawaii outfits, but he knows for sure that Nala totally needs to build her confidence. Together, Nala and Timothy rise to a fun summer challenge that will remind readers how good it feels to believe in themselves.

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Into the Bewilderness

Gus Gordon

Perfect for fans of The Wild Robot, Gus Gordon's graphic novel debut follows two furry friends on a clever and cozy adventure when they embark on a journey to the Big City for the first time.

In the Bewilderness, life is good.

Best friends Luis (the large furry one) and Pablo (the small furry one) spend their days wandering through nature, playing songs on the guitar, and eating Slow Joe McNally's pinecone porridge with their neighbors.

When dreamer Luis receives an unexpected invitation to attend a performance of The Weary Mermaid in the big, bustling city, he finds it hard to ignore the allure of the bright lights.

Luckily, he doesn't have to go it alone--and it's a good thing, because it's a long journey through the Bewilderness, and Luis has many questions. Will they meet laser-eyed gargoyles, zombie chickens, or tyrannical cow rulers? Will they get there on time? Why is quicksand so slow if it's called quicksand? Thankfully, with his grumpy but loyal best friend by his side, they'll soon find out.

. . . Or will they?

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Britannica All New Kids' Encyclopedia

Britannica Group

Fully updated edition of Britannica's landmark children's encyclopedia, with up-to-the-minute facts, figures and images, featuring everything from supernovas to Taylor Swift, and from ancient Egypt to artificial intelligence.

Earth, Space, Animals, History, STEM: This landmark encyclopedia from Britannica has them all! With more than 400 pages of up-to-the-minute information, including the very latest facts and figures, cutting-edge expert insights, and over 1,000 illustrations, photographs, and maps, this gorgeous compendium will satisfy even the most curious minds.

Unlike old encyclopedias that are structured from A to Z, this encyclopedia will take you on a journey from the beginning of time to the present day and even into the future! Meanwhile, 100 experts from around the world, and a whole team of Britannica fact-checkers, fulfill Britannica's reputation for authentic, trustworthy information.

Full of amazing facts you can trust, this updated edition of Britannica's bestselling encyclopedia will spark curiosity and wonder in every reader.

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Journey of the Humpbacks

Juliana Muñoz Toro

"Extraordinary...An unforgettable encounter that will spark a lifelong fascination." -- Kirkus Reviews (STARRED REVIEW)

The amazing migration of humpback whales, explored through lyrical language, fascinating infographics, and colorful art.

Come meet the humpback whales: we'll travel with them from the Antarctic to the Colombian Pacific, back where they were born. Let's learn about how their fins help them swim, how long they can live, why and how they sing, how their calves grow up, and how they fit into the baleen whale family. As we migrate with these marine mammals, we'll discover the joy of sharing our planet with these incredible creatures. 

Created in collaboration with humpback whale researchers, this browsable book welcomes readers to follow the animals for their full adventure or enjoy a few intriguing facts along the way. Journey of the Humpbacks is the perfect read for aspiring marine biologists, avid whale-watchers, and anyone who's ever dreamed of diving beneath the waves.

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Kat & Mouse: I Like Cheese!

Salina Yoon

The first book in a new early reader series starring a charming pair of friends, Kat and Mouse, from award-winning creator Salina Yoon!

Kat and Mouse are opposites: Kat is spontaneous and creative, and Mouse likes routine-and cheese. While Kat's lunchtime is always an adventure, Mouse, on the other hand, has cheese every day. Kat wonders: doesn't Mouse ever get bored of cheese?! Mouse wonders: does Kat ever get bored of me?! Can this duo find a lunch that fits their friendship?

Join these friends for a hilarious and sweet story about stepping out of our comfort zones and finding joy in unexpected things, old and new, perfect for fans of Elephant and Piggie!

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Spaghetti

Merrilees Brown

Meet Spaghetti the mouse — a tiny collector, recycler, artist and the ultimate noodle-powered problem solver!

Spaghetti loves collecting — lost buttons, bits of string, old pencil stubs and lots and lots of dried spaghetti. Spaghetti’s family sees a mousy mess. Spaghetti sees mouse treasure!

But when too much treasure takes up all the space in the mouse house, Spaghetti’s parents insist that something needs to change. It’s time for Spaghetti to put on his thinking cap (a pencil shaving) and come up with a creative solution for everyone in the mouse house.

A charmingly illustrated picture book that celebrates creativity, recycling, and thinking outside the pasta box. Perfect for inspiring young makers, dreamers, and spaghetti-lovers alike!

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Elvis & Romeo Visit the Vet

David Soman

Elvis and Romeo go to the vet in the second book in the charming Level 1 Ready-to-Read series from the bestselling creators of Ladybug Girl.

Elvis and Romeo are going to the vet for checkups. Elvis does not want to go or even to talk about it, but Romeo loves veterinarian visits—getting his ears and eyes checked…and getting a treat at the end! Can he convince Elvis the vet isn’t so bad?

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Bear in the Air

Allison Wortche

Bear proudly soars above his friends in a hot air balloon... until he realizes he doesn't know how to land! This sweet picture book celebrates both independence and knowing when to ask for help.

Bear is on an adventure in a hot air balloon... all by himself!

As he flies proudly above his friends—Moose in the lake, his sisters in a tall tree—he feels independent and brave.

But, when he's ready to rejoin his friends on the ground, he realizes he has a problem: he doesn't know how to get down!

Not all adventures go according to plan, and Bear will have to work up a different kind of courage to ask his friends for help. And of course they'll all join together to bring him home!

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Billie Jean Peet, Athlete

Andrea Beaty

This fun and empowering picture book about marching to the beat of your own drum and celebrating your unique talents comes from Andrea Beaty and David Roberts, the #1 bestselling creators of Rosie Revere, Engineer and Ada Twist, Scientist.



Billie Jean Peet is the middle kid in a house full of music. Her older sister sings, her younger sister drums, and even her mouse Pop knows how to bust a move. But when Billie Jean tries to join in, her notes come out sharp and flat.



She just wants to find her niche, but the more she tries, the more she worries she's not good at anything.



Billie Jean is sure she's stuck being so-so, but when a mistake on the basketball court flips into an unexpected revelation, she's able to combine all her interests and create something completely her own.



From author-illustrator team Andrea Beaty and David Roberts comes an unforgettable story about embracing what makes you unique in order to forge your own path.



Check out all the books in the Questioneers Series:

  • The Questioneers Picture Book Series: Iggy Peck, Architect | Rosie Revere, Engineer | Ada Twist, Scientist | Sofia Valdez, Future Prez | Aaron Slater, Illustrator | Lila Greer, Teacher of the Year | Billie Jean Peet, Athlete
  • The Questioneers Chapter Book Series: Rosie Revere and the Raucous Riveters | Ada Twist and the Perilous Pants | Iggy Peck and the Mysterious Mansion | Sofia Valdez and the Vanishing Vote | Ada Twist and the Disappearing Dogs | Aaron Slater and the Sneaky Snake | Lila Greer and the Shrieking Shadow
  • Questioneers: The Why Files Series: Exploring Flight! | All About Plants! | The Science of Baking | Bug Bonanza! | Rockin' Robots! | Team Green!
  • Questioneers: Ada Twist, Scientist Series: Ghost Busted | Show Me the Bunny | Ada Twist, Scientist: Brainstorm Book | 5-Minute Ada Twist, Scientist Stories
  • The Questioneers Big Project Book Series: Iggy Peck's Big Project Book for Amazing Architects | Rosie Revere's Big Project Book for Bold Engineers | Ada Twist's Big Project Book for Stellar Scientists | Sofia Valdez's Big Project Book for Awesome Activists | Aaron Slater's Big Project Book for Astonishing Artists
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Frida the Rock-and-Roll Moth

Kim Hillyard

Meet Frida, a musical moth finding her confidence on the big stage!

Frida is a musical moth who loves to rock out—she puts on her pointy boots and plays her purple guitar really LOUD! But when the Big Bright Light is switched on, more moths appear, ready to rock together, and Frida starts to feel that everyone is much better than her. Perhaps she isn't so rock-and-roll after all… With the help of her biggest fan, Auntie Edna, Frida learns to reclaim her style, find her confidence, and get up and rock on once more! This positive picture book will inspire readers to find what makes them feel good and let their inner confidence shine.

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Oh Dear, Look What I Got!

Michael Rosen

"A guaranteed hit for the storytime set, from a team whose talents haven't aged a day."--Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

The incomparable creative team behind We're Going on a Bear Hunt reunite for a read-aloud comedy of misunderstandings that has all the hallmarks of a classic.

I went to the shop to get me a carrot.
Oh dear! They gave me . . .
. . . a parrot.
Oh dear! Look what I got.
Do I want that? No, I do NOT!

As a hapless boy goes from shop to shop, requesting a series of perfectly reasonable items--a hat, a coat, a cake, a chair--he finds himself thwarted at every turn, amassing instead a growing menagerie of animals who happily follow him on his errands. It's not until he finally asks for a cup that he's proffered a wriggly creature that solves his dilemma . . . or does it? Adding delicious momentum to Michael Rosen's rhymes (and mastery of the page turn) are an expressive crew of animal characters rendered as only Helen Oxenbury can, making for a timeless story guaranteed to beg many repeat readings. Oh dear!

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Buffalo Fluffalo and Puffalo

Bess Kalb

Fluffalo has had enuffalo when his quiet prairie life is turned upside down by the arrival of his new sibling, Puffalo, in this sweet and funny follow-up to the #1 New York Times bestselling Buffalo Fluffalo!

Every day, Buffalo Fluffalo goes about his usual routine. He munches all the grass he can eat, frolics and rollicks with his friends, and at noontime, lies down for a nap in the shade. But one morning, Fluffalo wakes up to a loud wailing cry and, to his surprise, finds a little buffalo named Puffalo with the tiniest, shiniest eyes!

At first, Fluffalo does not like Puffalo. “What does it need?” he huffs in alarm. But Crow wisely explains that Puffalo doesn't need much—just time to learn and grow. Slowly, Fluffalo watches as Puffalo learns to trip, slip, gallop, and trot. He teaches Puffalo to eat plants and to keep away from red ants. Together, the two take long strolls and snuggle for naps. And even though Puffalo sometimes slows him down, Fluffalo realizes that life is much better with Puffalo by his side.

From national bestseller and Emmy-nominated comedy writer Bess Kalb comes this hilarious tale featuring the surly Buffalo Fluffalo and introducing his new sibling, Puffalo. Illustrated by the talented Erin Kraan, readers will delight in the loving message about the joy of discovering that the yelly, smelly, squiggly, and short new sibling might be a tiny bit cute.

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Lost Evangeline

Kate DiCamillo

This captivating original fairy tale set in the world of The Puppets of Spelhorst and The Hotel Balzaar features an exclusive color illustration and gilded edges on the first printing.

When a shoemaker discovers a tiny girl (as small as a mouse!) in his shop, he takes her in, names her Evangeline, and raises her as his own. The shoemaker's wife, however, fears that Evangeline has bewitched her husband, so when an opportunity arises to rid herself of the girl, she takes it. Evangeline finds herself far from her adopted father and her home, a tiny girl lost in the wide world. But she is brave, and she is resourceful, and with the help of those she meets on her journey--including a disdainful and self-satisfied cat--she may just find her way again. Return to the magical land of Norendy in this third original fairy tale by renowned storyteller Kate DiCamillo, perfect for savoring alone or for reading aloud with someone you love. Graced with exquisite black-and-white illustrations by Sophie Blackall, this timeless story of a girl and her father will make you believe in the impossible.

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Creepy Sheepy

Lucy Ruth Cummins

From New York Times bestselling illustrator of The Big Cheese and the Food Group series, Pete Oswald, and critically acclaimed author Lucy Ruth Cummins comes a Halloween adventure for Sleepy Sheepy. A story all about learning when to blend in and when to stand out that is perfect for fans of Pig the Monster and Creepy Pair of Underwear!

It's Halloween, which means Sleepy Sheepy needs to find the perfect costume for trick-or-treating! And Sheepy MUST be the scariest, hairiest, werewolf of all!

But on Halloween night, the costume just doesn't fit right, and when Sheepy steps outside, there are packs of werewolves everywhere! How will he stand out and be the creepiest sheepy of all? 

From celebrated author Lucy Ruth Cummins and brought to life by #1 New York Times bestselling illustrator Pete Oswald, Creepy Sheepy is a silly and clever Halloween read-aloud all about marching to the beat of your own drum! 

Don't miss the other books in the series, Sleepy Sheepy and Sleepy Sheepy and the Sheepover!

Praise for Creepy Sheepy:
"Not too sweet and not too scary, this one is just right. A cute addition to any Halloween shelf." --Kirkus reviews

"Oswald creates colorful, sweet illustrations that emphasize characters and keep backgrounds simple to guide the reader’s focus. With charming rhythm, rhymes, and clever wordplay, Cummins celebrates the importance of individuality." --Booklist

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Earl & Worm #2: The Big Mess and Other Stories

Greg Pizzoli

Beloved Geisel Award-winning author Greg Pizzoli is back with book two in the fan favorite early reader series of two unlikely friends, Earl and Worm, that is sure to make kids belly laugh!

Earl and Worm couldn't be more different--but they also are also the best of friends. So when Earl's mess gets out of hand, Worm is sure she can help. And when a lucky penny turns rotten, rain-soaked Earl helps Worm see the sunny side. Through it all, the pair's funny hijinks turn tender . . . and the big mess ends up where they least expect it!

Come along for three giggle-inducing stories that will have kids hooting along soon after they've outgrown Elephant and Piggy.

Geisel Award-winning creator Greg Pizzoli delivers three giggle-inducing stories that will have kids hooting along soon after they've outgrown Elephant and Piggie.

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Jazzy the Witch in Broom Doom

Jessixa Bagley

“Whimsy abounds in this playful” (Publishers Weekly, starred review) middle grade graphic novel about a young witch who struggles to fit in—perfect for fans of The Okay Witch and Hooky!

In her town full of witches, Jazzy’s always been a little bit different. She’s not excited about magic. She forgets the steps to spells. And even though her parents run the town’s broom shop, she doesn’t want to fly.

Then, one day, she discovers what she was born to do: cycling! Now she just has to find a way to get a bicycle…and learn how to ride it. But will her new passion come between her and her best friend—and possibly get her in big trouble?

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All Are Welcome: a Cat's Café Collection

Gwen Tarpley

Join Cat, Rabbit, Penguin, and the rest of the team in this delightful new comic collection for middle grade readers! All are Welcome offers young readers delightful comics full of friendship and fun. 

According to the School Library Journal, Cat Cafe "makes you feel good because it's a place where you are accepted, no matter who you are or how you feel."

The comic book equivalent of a cozy blanket, Cat's Café takes you by the hand and carefully guides you away from all the darkness in life. Freeing the warm and floofies within, Cat's Café offers a world that understands you. In this new comic collection for middle grade readers, fans will find new levels cuteness, heartwarming moments, and learn more about their favorite characters. Along with the familiar stories of mental health and friendship that Cat's Café is known for, author Gwen Tarpley also uses characters like Rabbit to share her most authentic self with the world. So, grab your favorite mug and brew, and sip, laugh, and cheer as you curl up with the newest installment of Cat's Café.

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Recess

Lane Smith

Bestselling and award-winning creator Lane Smith presents an interactive read-aLOUD that invites readers to take a break, run wild with their imaginations, and join in on some good-natured, school-sanctioned shenanigans.



School is where you go to learn. It is fun.

But sometimes you need a little break from all the fun.

That is why there is recess.

But what if it's not recess time?

No problem!



You can have a Now Recess, a Really-Need-a-Break Recess, a Wherever-You-Are Recess.

It doesn't matter what you call it. Just make sure you shout it:

RECESS!



Featuring the distinctive humor and beloved art of bestselling Caldecott honoree Lane Smith, this irresistibly fun, interactive read aLOUD is the perfect stress reliever to send kids into fits of giggles and shaking out their wiggles.

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Sammy and Sunny's First Day of School

Nina LaCour

An adorable and reassuring book for kids who are starting school for the first time, and a funny look at the similarities and differences between kindergarten and doggie daycare

It's the first day of kid school for Sammy and the first day of puppy school for Sunny. They both feel nervous, but they end up having a great time-- making friends, playing and napping, and learning all sorts of new things.

That afternoon, they tell Mom and each other all about day one, Sammy with words and Sunny in his own special way. But what will happen on day two? Sammy wonders. And readers are in for a very funny surprise!

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Forts

Katie Venit

A lyrical ode to all the secret spaces in our world.

The world is filled with forts. 
Tiny worlds within this world,
safe as coat pockets.

Everyone needs a room of their own. A place to hide and play, ponder and dream. Whether it’s a tree house in the backyard or a blanket fort inside, a fort is a magical place filled with imagination and wonder.

Debut author Katie Venit and celebrated illustrator Kenard Pak have crafted a lyrical celebration of the secret spaces we hold so dear. Forts encourages readers to explore the world around them to find the perfect place where they belong.

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The Marvelous Now

Angela DiTerlizzi

This calming companion to the bestselling The Magical Yet and The Curious Why is a marvelous introduction for young readers to mindfulness and keeping your cool!



Missed the bus? Flubbed a test? Got overwhelmed in a crowd? When you're feeling big feelings or having a bad day, it can be hard to calm your racing mind and stay present. The Marvelous Now gives kids the tools to see that this is the moment where you need to be! Through accessible, rhythmic verse by Angela DiTerlizzi and colorful, joyful illustrations by Lorena Alvarez Gómez, the Now will help young readers learn to regulate their emotions, reset, and reach their happy place. 



Don't miss the other books in the acclaimed series:

The Magical Yet

The Curious Why

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Hands-On Science: Geology

Lola M. Schaefer

Press Here meets Bill Nye the Science Guy in this interactive STEM picture book about rocks, minerals, and Earth science.

Welcome to the geology lab! In this interactive picture book, young scientists use their imagination to bring experiments to life. They slide tectonic plates together to create earthquakes, blow on a mountain to make a volcano erupt, and press their hands in mud to make a fossil. After predicting what will happen next, eager readers turn the page to see the results.

Educator and author Lola M. Schaefer draws on her years in the classroom to make science fun and accessible. Back matter includes a simple experiment for investigating rocks and minerals in the real world.

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Hands-On Science: Motion

Lola M. Schaefer

Press Here meets Bill Nye the Science Guy in this interactive STEM picture book about forces and motion.

Welcome to the physics lab! In this picture book, young scientists use their imagination to bring experiements to life. They poke whipped cream in the illustrations, tilt the book to roll a ball down a ramp, and slide beanbags to test friction. After predicting what will happen next, eager readers turn the page to see the results.

Educator and author Lola M. Schaefer draws on her years in the classroom to make science fun and accessible. Back matter encourages kids to notice the pushes and pulls all around them and includes a simple physics experiment.

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Everyday Bean (Tiny Bean's Big Adventures, Book #1)

Stephanie Graegin

4 STARRED REVIEWS! • Join adorable hedgehog Bean in the first picture book of a new series full of tiny stories about big everyday adventures that will warm quills — and tickle funny bones!

Meet Bean, a very tiny hedgehog. She loves ghosts, swings and a stuffie called Clem.

Meet Bean’s grandma. She loves strawberries, sweaters and tiny Bean burritos.

And they both love stories.

In ten tiny stories we follow Bean and her grandmother through adventures of the everyday. Bean loses her bad mood in a meadow and Grandma thinks she sees a ghost (don’t worry it’s just Bean!) — and there’s even a story with giant strawberries.

This first volume in the Tiny Bean’s Big Adventures series by acclaimed author/illustrator and hedgehog friend/insider, Stephanie Graegin, is the perfect gift for little (and big) readers and hedgehog admirers everywhere.

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The Day the Books Disappeared

Joanna Ho

All-star authors Joanna Ho (Eyes That Kiss in the Corners) and Caroline Kusin Pritchard (The Keeper of Stories) team up with Caldecott Medalist and National Book Award Winner Dan Santat in this celebration of the freedom to read.

Arnold didn't mean for the books to disappear--not exactly. It all started because he liked his book about airplanes best. Why would anyone want to read about tomatoes or ostriches or submarines (ew, the worst!) when they could read about planes, instead?

When Arnold realizes--POOF!--he can make the other books vanish, he goes a little too far. Before he knows it, all the books are gone...including his. Can Arnold figure out how to bring them back before it's too late?

This book about books celebrates themes of empathy, interconnectedness, and the value of diverse and differing perspectives.

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Toes, Teeth, and Tentacles

Steve Jenkins

This latest book by the Caldecott Honor-winning team of Steve Jenkins and Robin Page highlights the numerous strange and fascinating features and appendages from teeth to toes to tongues of all kinds of animals.



Did you know...

a praying mantis only has one ear?

a squid has three hearts?

a giant African land snail can have up to eighteen thousand teeth?



Toes, Teeth, and Tentacles celebrates and highlights the numerous unusual and strangely fascinating features and appendages of all kinds of animals, from horns to toes and stomachs to hearts. From the two-tongued loris to a scallop's 200 eyes, readers will find joy in numbers with this latest book by these two masters of nonfiction. While not a counting book in the traditional sense, readers will enjoy learning all kinds of fun facts from the animal world as they look for fingers and fins!

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Bubblegum Shoes: The Case of the Contraband Closet

Goldy Moldavsky

When a stock-pile of confiscated classroom items go missing, (self-appointed) seventh grade PI Maya is on the case. From the New York Times bestselling author of Kill the Boy Band comes a whip-smart middle grade debut and the start of a sharp cul-du-sac crime-solving series.

9:48 AM. Math class. Marlowe Middle School. 

Life isn't easy on the streets, er, hallways of Marlowe Middle School. Luckily, private eye Maya Mendoza never stops paying attention. She knows who is passing notes in class. Spots which teacher wore shoes a half-size too tight. And she certainly notices when her former best friend Jordan suddenly stops talking to her. 

Then, the legendary Contraband Closet is robbed. Every Hotwheels car, spray paint canister, bouncy ball, and other prized possession teachers have collected since the dawn of time are seemingly lost forever--including an item of Jordan's. Suddenly, Maya sees a case that may set things back to the way it used to be because contraband--and friendships--don't vanish into thin air...right?

A wise-cracking start to a new mystery series from New York Times bestselling author Goldy Moldavsky.

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Sea Otter Sunrise

Mary Pope Osborne

The #1 bestselling Magic Tree House series for chapter book readers is ready to whisk you away across the world with Jack and Annie--this time to save sea otters after a shark attack! Magic Tree House is the perfect series for kids ready to transition from leveled readers and picture books to longer novels!

It’s bright and early when the magic tree house spins Jack and Annie to Monterey Bay, California. It’s their mission to collect sea urchins in the underwater kelp forests! But they know nothing about collecting sea urchins—can a grouchy boat captain help them? Maybe. But Jack and Annie have another problem when Annie finds a badly injured sea otter. They’re not supposed to help the otter. . . but it’s the right thing to do. Can they convince the grouchy boat captain to help them? 

Did you know that there's a Magic Tree House book for every kid?
 

  • Magic Tree House: Perfect for readers who are just beginning chapter books
  • Merlin Missions: More challenging adventures for the experienced reader
  • Fact Trackers: Nonfiction companions to your favorite Magic Tree House adventures
  • Graphic Novels: Relive the original adventures brought to life with art by Kelly & Nichole Matthews


If you're looking for Merlin Mission #40: Eve of the Emperor Penguin, it was renumbered as Merlin Mission #12 when the series was rebranded in 2017.

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Impossible Creatures

Katherine Rundell

#1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • Two kids race to save the world’s last magical place in the first book of a landmark new fantasy series, from “a writer with an utterly distinctive voice and a wild imagination.” (Philip Pullman, author of The Golden Compass

*This spectacular book features foil and embossing on the jacket, full-color designed endpapers, red stained edges, and a red case cover with gold stamping.*

“An instant classic from one of the most gifted storytellers of our time, Impossible Creatures is an astonishing miracle of a book.” —Katherine Applegate, Newbery Medal Winner for The One and Only Ivan

A WALL STREET JOURNAL BEST CHILDREN'S BOOK OF THE YEAR • A PUBLISHERS WEEKLY, KIRKUS REVIEWS, AND SHELF AWARENESS BEST BOOK OF THE YEAR

The day that Christopher saved a drowning baby griffin from a hidden lake would change his life forever. 

It’s the day he learned about the Archipelago—a cluster of unmapped islands where magical creatures of every kind have thrived for thousands of years, until now. And it’s the day he met Mal—a girl on the run, in desperate need of his help.

Mal and Christopher embark on a wild adventure, racing from island to island, searching for someone who can explain why the magic is fading and why magical creatures are suddenly dying. They consult sphinxes, battle kraken, and negotiate with dragons. But the closer they get to the dark truth of what’s happening, the clearer it becomes: no one else can fix this. If the Archipelago is to be saved, Mal and Christopher will have to do it themselves.

Katherine Rundell’s story crackles and roars with energy and delight. It is brought vividly to life with more than 60 illustrations, including a map and a bestiary of magical creatures.

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Miss Camper: a Graphic Novel

Kat Fajardo

A companion to Miss Quinces, Kat Fajardo's bestselling, award-winning middle-grade graphic novel!

 

Sue is heading to Camp Willow this summer! She's looking forward to hiking, archery, and making comics in the fresh air. She's especially excited about LARPing (live-action role-playing) and can't wait for the freedom of being away from home. But she won't be far from family because her big sister, Carmen, is a camp counselor and her little sister, Ester, is a fellow camper and won't give her any space! All Sue wants is to make memories with her friends, but they're assigned to only a few of the same activities. To make matters even worse, her best friend, Sam, has a best camp friend named Marisol? And Sue's good friend Izzy has a crush on Sue?! This summer isn't at all going as planned!

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Pacheco and the Witch of the Mountain

Juan E. Zambrano

Welcome to the island of Asunción, home to the most powerful witches--and Pacheco, their biggest fan. In this beautifully illustrated graphic novel, debut creator Juan E. Zambrano will take readers on an epic adventure that's all about magic, identity, and staying true to yourself.

Pacheco's biggest dream is to practice magic! There's just one problem: commoners, and especially boys, aren't allowed to learn witchcraft. 

However, once his family's fishing business begins to suffer, Pacheco is determined; he's certain that learning magic is the best way to help his family and community. He meets Doris, a grumpy, old witch, and he decides to become her apprentice.

As Pacheco enters the world of magic, he finds himself caught up in the rules and schemes of a whole new society and surrounded by magical creatures in need of protection. Pacheco will have to dig deep to muster the courage--and magic--to defend his future.

Debut creator Juan E. Zambrano presents a breathtaking graphic novel that delves into the importance of staying true to oneself while courageously addressing challenging themes such as gender roles and environmental protection. Perfect for fans of Joe Latham's Haru, Emma Steinkellner's The Okay Witch, Claribel Ortega's Witchlings, and Hayao Miyazaki's films like Kiki's Delivery Service and Spirited Away.

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Watch Me Grow: Butterflies

Sara Forster

Learn all about the life cycle of a butterfly in this perfect introduction to the natural world.

With colourful and engaging illustration and simple explanations, this is a fun and informative introduction to the natural world. This book will take the reader on a journey through a butterfly's life cycle, learning about how it eats, its habitat and how it grows and defends itself.

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Are There Rainbows in Space?

Sheila Kanani

What color is a polar bear under its fur? How do flamingos turn pink? What is a blue moon? Find the answers to all these fun questions and much more in this fact-filled adventure into the colorful world around us!

The science of colors is hard at work all the time—from ultraviolet light to the baby blue tint of the sky. Readers will learn tons of interesting scientific facts about color and its whys and hows—like why blood is red, how hippos keep cool, and how some animals can change color to hide from predators. Bursting with incredible illustrations and some seriously cool science, this book is sure to dazzle both nature lovers and reluctant readers alike.

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Human Body

Richard Walker

Understand the human body from head to toe with this educational encyclopedia for children.

Get to know how each part of the body works through amazing facts and colorful diagrams in this fully updated edition of the bestselling Human Body A Visual Encyclopedia.

Did you know that you are made up of 100 trillion cells? Learn about blood vessels (capillaries, veins, and arteries) which, if they were laid out end to end, would wrap around the Earth twice! Find out what makes a balanced diet - after all, you will eat about 20 tons of food in your entire life!

This human body book for kids offers:

  • How the body works, looking at body parts and functions like bones and muscles, heart and blood, disease defenses, the life cycle, and much more.
  • A human body encyclopedia that is suitable and informative for children aged 9+.
  • A refreshed and updated edition, including a new design and the latest facts and stats on the human body.


Make your way from the skin, muscles, organs, and bones, right down to your cells and DNA with this encyclopedia that combines clear descriptions of human biology with awesome photographs, diagrams, and CGI artworks. There are also fun quizzes, so you can assess your own personality and test your logical and reasoning skills.

Explore the series!

Globally, the Children's Encyclopedia series has sold more than 4 million copies worldwide. Uncover the marvels of our world with Science, explore the deep blue with Ocean, explore our solar system and beyond with Space, and get to grips with world-famous sculptures with Art.

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Eyewonder Oceans

Samantha Grey (Children's author)

Spark the love of learning with this picture-packed guide to the Earth's oceans for children.

DK's best-selling Eyewonder series is back and has been refreshed for the next generation of young readers aged 5-7.

This picture-led reference guide will take you on a visual tour of the biggest habitats on our planet. Stay-at-home explorers will feel inspired by the dramatic photographs, up-to-date information, and fact-packed pages, and a brand-new "eyewonder" feature where knowledge meets real-world application.

Throughout the pages of this newly revised book on oceans, you can find:

  • Fully updated and revised content for children starting to develop a passion for science.
  • Eye-catching photographs that grab the attention of young readers and keep them coming back for more.
  • Engaging facts, simple explanations, and fun activities throughout the book.


Eyewonder Oceans introduces children to the incredible world of marine life, the darkest depths and even the polar regions. Children can witness the wonders of the ocean floor and learn how different sea creatures live together in harmony in this refreshed guide.

Explore the series!

The Eyewonder series is back and better than ever, with a fresh new look and the latest information. If you liked Eyewonder Oceans, why not dig into Eyewonder Rocks and Minerals or Eyewonder Human Body?

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Eyewonder Rocks and Minerals

Caroline Bingham

Spark the love of learning with this picture-packed guide to Earth's rocks and minerals for children.

DK's best-selling Eyewonder series is back and has been refreshed for the next generation of young readers aged 5-7.

This picture-led reference guide will take you on a visual tour of the amazing treasures right under your feet. Stay-at-home explorers will feel inspired by the dramatic photographs, up-to-date information and fact-packed pages, and a brand-new "eyewonder" feature where knowledge meets real-world application.

Throughout the pages of this newly revised book on rocks and minerals, you can find:

  • Fully updated and revised content for children starting to develop a passion for science.
  • Eye-catching photographs that grab the attention of young readers and keep them coming back for more.
  • Engaging facts, simple explanations, and fun activities throughout the book.


Eyewonder Rocks & Minerals introduces children to the incredible world of precious stones, different rock types, and even rocks from space. Children can discover how rocks form, find out what minerals are, and explore the hundreds of uses we have for them in this refreshed guide.

Explore the series!

The Eyewonder series is back and better than ever, with a fresh new look and the latest information. If you liked Eyewonder Rocks and Minerals, why not dive into Eyewonder Oceans or Eyewonder Human Body?

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1,000 Facts About Sharks

Sarah Wassner Flynn

Dive into 1,000 sensational facts about these fierce and fascinating predators, from great whites to whale sharks, reef sharks, goblin sharks, and more!

From the bizarre frilled shark to the wide-headed hammerhead, discover all you have ever wanted to know about sharks! Each page of this book is brimming with bite-sized facts, incredible shark stats, and unbelievable photos of sharks in the wild. Inside, you’ll glimpse fossils of prehistoric sharks, learn exactly how many pointy teeth are in this apex predator’s mouth, and meet awesome shark relatives, like stingrays. You’ll also learn about new technologies inspired by sharks and find out what conservations are doing to help protect this misunderstood fish.


With a fun-fact format that makes learning feel like a breeze, and expert-vetted, up-to-date shark info—plus backmatter about shark anatomy, genealogy, and more—this book is your go-to reference for shark enthusiasts young and old. Plus, hundreds of thrilling photographs bring the facts to life in this dazzling dive into the watery world of these incredible creatures.

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Hello, I'm a Toucan (Meet the Wild Things, Book 5)

Hayley Rocco

Meet the toucan in this clever, funny, and informative nonfiction picture book, part of a series that focuses on endangered species.

“Wild, fun, and truly eye-opening, Meet the Wild Things gets us up close and personal with some of the world's most amazing creatures. With this series, Hayley and John Rocco are doing more than entertaining our kids—they’re inspiring them to care about the future of our planet.” —Brad Meltzer, bestselling author of the Ordinary People Change the World series

Did you know a toucan's bill is four times the size of its head? But you might be surprised by how lightweight and strong it is.

And did you know that toucans use their bills to keep cool when it's hot outside, by increasing blood flow from the rest of their body to maintain the perfect temperature? You can't get much cooler than that.

But did you also know the toucan is endangered and needs our help? With humans chopping down rainforests and taking toucans from their homes to make them pets, these unique birds need our protection more than ever.

Chock-full of amazing, kid-friendly facts and inviting artwork from the #1 New York Times bestselling, Caldecott Honoree illustrator of Blackout, the Meet the Wild Things series introduces young readers to endangered animals from around the globe, told from the points of view of the animals themselves.

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Incredible

Maia Shibutani

Olympians Alex and Maia Shibutani continue their Amazing exploration of more than thirty extraordinary Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders who have changed the world in this gorgeous and inclusive picture book.

This companion book to Amazing delves further into the vast number of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders who have made significant and lasting change in the world, including groundbreaking journalist Connie Chung, first Asian American Congressman Dalip Singh Saund, and renowned singer/activist Israel Kaʻanoʻi Kamakawiwoʻole.

Maia and Alex Shibutani have taken their Olympic-medal-winning drive and passion to amplify AANHPI contributions and successes for a more inclusive world. Together with artist Dion MBD, they introduce more than thirty figures, ranging from chefs to entertainers to scientists, in short but substantial biographies and colorful illustrations. Their hope is that young readers will learn that these heroes have shaped our lives in countless inspiring ways.

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The Way Things Work Now

David Macaulay

A New York Times Bestseller

Explainer-in-Chief David Macaulay updates the worldwide bestseller The New Way Things Work to capture the latest developments in the technology that most impacts our lives. Famously packed with information on the inner workings of everything from windmills to Wi-Fi, this extraordinary and humorous book both guides readers through the fundamental principles of machines, and shows how the developments of the past are building the world of tomorrow. This sweepingly revised edition embraces all of the latest developments, from touchscreens to 3D printer. Each scientific principle is brilliantly explained--with the help of a charming, if rather slow-witted, woolly mammoth.

An illustrated survey of significant inventions closes the book, along with a glossary of technical terms, and an index. What possible link could there be between zippers and plows, dentist drills and windmills? Parking meters and meat grinders, jumbo jets and jackhammers, remote control and rockets, electric guitars and egg beaters? Macaulay explains them all. 
 

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The Labors of Hercules Beal

Gary D. Schmidt



 

From award-winning author Gary D. Schmidt, a warm and witty novel in the tradition of The Wednesday Wars, in which a seventh grader has to figure out how to fulfill an assignment to perform the Twelve Labors of Hercules in real life--and makes discoveries about friendship, community, and himself along the way.

Herc Beal knows who he's named after--a mythical hero--but he's no superhero. He's the smallest kid in his class. So when his homeroom teacher at his new middle school gives him the assignment of duplicating the mythical Hercules's amazing feats in real life, he's skeptical. After all, there are no Nemean Lions on Cape Cod--and not a single Hydra in sight.

Missing his parents terribly and wishing his older brother wasn't working all the time, Herc figures out how to take his first steps along the road that the great Hercules himself once walked. Soon, new friends, human and animal, are helping him. And though his mythical role model performed his twelve labors by himself, Herc begins to see that he may not have to go it alone.

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When We Flew Away

Alice Hoffman

Bestselling author Alice Hoffman delivers a stunning novel about one of contemporary history's most acclaimed figures, exploring the little-known details of Anne Frank's life before she went into hiding.

 

Anne Frank's The Diary of a Young Girl has captivated and inspired readers for decades. Published posthumously by her bereaved father, Anne's journal, written while she and her family were in hiding during World War II, has become one of the central texts of the Jewish experience during the Holocaust, as well as a work of literary genius.

With the Nazi occupation of the Netherlands, the Frank family's life is turned inside out, blow by blow, restriction by restriction. Prejudice, loss, and terror run rampant, and Anne is forced to bear witness as ordinary people become monsters, and children and families are caught up in the inescapable tide of violence.

In the midst of impossible danger, Anne, audacious and creative and fearless, discovers who she truly is. With a wisdom far beyond her years, she will become a writer who will go on to change the world as we know it.

Critically acclaimed author Alice Hoffman weaves a lyrical and heart-wrenching story of the way the world closes in on the Frank family from the moment the Nazis invade the Netherlands until they are forced into hiding, bringing Anne to bold, vivid life.

 

Based on extensive research and published in cooperation with the Anne Frank House in Amsterdam, When We Flew Away is an extraordinary and moving tour de force.

 

Perfect for Alice Hoffman fans and readers of every age.

 

"Adding new poignance to a story whose ending we already knew, Alice Hoffman has deftly recreated the child Anne Frank with all her wit, mischief, and uncertainties. This fictionalized account of the increasingly desperate years that preceded the famous diary breaks readers' hearts one more time. But it reminds us of how important it is to remember and honor all that was lost." -- Lois Lowry, Newbery Award-winning author of Number the Stars

 

"We can highly recommend Alice Hoffman's novel of Anne Frank's life, set in the dramatic and terrible circumstances of those first war years. We hope it will persuade young readers that contributing to a better world is both necessary and possible." --Ronald Leopold, Executive Director, Anne Frank House

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Ghost Town

Eric Colossal

From author Eric Colossal comes an exciting new middle-grade graphic novel about friendship, growing up, and catching ghosts

The sleepy seaside town of Crater is falling apart. The buildings are run-down, the streets are full of potholes, and the power is unreliable. However, it's the only home Lily Cole has ever known, and despite her protests, Lily's family will be moving away at the end of the summer.

Now Lily is determined to spend as much time as possible with her friends before she leaves, riding bikes, hanging out, and playing stickball.

When a foul ball leads the kids into an abandoned mansion on the edge of town, the gang is shocked to discover that Crater is haunted by thousands of ghosts, and they've stumbled upon the tools to hunt and trap them! With ghost traps fully charged and bikes at the ready, join Lily and her friends in the spookiest summer of their lives.

Funny and full of heart, Ghost Town is the perfect read for fans of Snapdragon, Beetle and the Hollowbones, and This Is Our Pact.

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Green Jolene: Green Jolene and the Neighborhood Swap

Wendy Mass

Meet Green Jolene- a green, clean, climate-conscious heroine.

This illustrated chapter book series by New York Times best-selling author Wendy Mass is perfect for kids who are inspired by Greta Thunberg and love Beverly Cleary's Beezus and Ramona and other classics like Ivy & Bean and Clementine.

It all began (as the best stories do) with a very stinky backpack!

Jolene wouldn't have guessed that the first day of summer vacation would start with her trying to figure out if the squishy object smelling up her backpack was a half-eaten tuna sandwich or a six-month-old plum! (It was both!) While dumping old food in the trash and bringing out the recycling, Jolene sees the huge boxes of stuff her new neighbors got delivered. She realizes how many of her own belongings she doesn't use anymore.

Horrified by the idea of contributing to overflowing landfills and trash-filled oceans, Jolene hatches a big plan to not only deal with her own stuff, but her whole neighborhood's unwanted items as well. Of course, big plans never work out quite the way we think they will!

Clad in her favorite rain boots, Jolene is ready to save the world. Or, at least, to tackle her own neighborhood's stuff and find some surprising new allies along the way. For fans of Ivy & Bean and Clementine comes Jolene, a can-do new hero who is discovering how to take an Earth-first approach to every problem she encounters.

This book is part of the Disney Planet Possible Books program, aiming to inspire and empower young readers to take care of planet Earth through amazing stories and kid-friendly environmental activities.

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Blizzard Challenge

Bear Grylls

Ollie would rather be at home than at camp, but a trip to a mountain range with Bear Grylls helps Ollie learn valuable lessons about teamwork and perseverance. Aligned to Common Core Standards and correlated to state standards. Chapter Books is an imprint of Spotlight, a division of ABDO.

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Desert Challenge

Bear Grylls

"Sophie loves activity camp . . . but is terrified of insects. It's so bad that she won't go into the tent on her own, just in case something flies at her, or she steps on a creepie-crawlie. But when she's given a compass by one of the other boys on the campsite, Sophie is magically transported to the desert on an adventure where they're impossible to avoid! With the help of survival expert Bear Grylls as her guide, she will learn how to withstand the extreme temperatures of the desert and how to spot mirages, encounter giant camel spiders, deadly scorpions and snakes . . . but will Sophie overcome her fear of insects back in the real world? And who will she give the compass to next?."--

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The Fintastical Tales of Mari A. Fisch #3: Pet Peeves

Monica Brown

The cat's out of the bag!

Mari A. Fisch, mermaid-princess-turned-human-spy, has been sent on land on a mission to protect all Earth's critters. From ducks to cats and kittens, Mari can't help but come to the rescue when there's an animal in trouble! But after a smelly encounter in the woods, Mari learns a lesson in how to help when it seems like there's nothing you can do.

It's the third title in an all-new chapter book series from award-winning children's book author Monica Brown. With black-and-white illustrations on every page, milestone markers throughout, and craft-making activities at the end of each book, Fintastical Tales is the perfect series for any emergent or reluctant reader!

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The Fintastical Tales of Mari A. Fisch #1: Mermaid Mission

Monica Brown

Get ready for some mermaid magic!

Mermaid princess Mari A. Fisch is on a top secret, superspecial mission: Go on land, become human, and figure out why humans do the weird things they do. Particularly, why do people pollute? But when Mari has traded in her tail for toes, she finds the human world totally confusing! Will Mari be able to complete her mission, save the world undersea, and stay true to herself?

It's an all-new chapter book series from the award-winning children's book author Monica Brown. With black-and-white illustrations on every page, milestone markers throughout, and craft-making activities at the end of each book, Fintastical Tales is the perfect series for any emergent or reluctant reader!

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Emmie and Friends: Entirely Emmie

Terri Libenson

The ninth book in the New York Times bestselling Emmie & Friends series--told from the alternating POVs of shy Emmie and class-clown Joe as they embark on a school camping trip.

Crushes. Camping.

MIDDLE SCHOOL

These days, Emmie doesn't feel so invisible. At least not around her best friends and her crush, Tyler.

Class-clown Joe's jokes aren't landing the way they used to. Who doesn't love a good prank? Apparently not his so-called friends, who don't even seem to care if he's around.

When their class goes on an end-of-year camping trip, Emmie and Joe find themselves stuck together--and expect the worst. But what happens instead turns out to be entirely unexpected.

New York Times bestseller Terri Libenson is back with a story about finding friendship in the least likely of places.

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Lone Wolf on Vacation

Kiah Thomas

Oscar the Grouch meets Frog & Toad in this hilarious illustrated early reader series about a cranky wolf on a quest to be left alone.

Wolf is excited for a peaceful, refreshing vacation: There, there’ll be nobody he knows. Nobody he doesn’t know. Nobody to bother him at all. Total relaxation. 

But from a sing-along bus ride to a broken elevator to a hotel room snafu, Wolf can’t seem to catch a break. And worst of all, some familiar old characters have somehow chosen the same dream destination. Will Wolf ever find solitude? Maybe the best vacation is a trip to an all-too-familiar place . . .

Move over, Elephant & Piggie! For readers who have had enough of the buddy duos, for kids who’d rather play by themselves—Wolf is the antihero you’ve been waiting for. Lone Wolf On Vacation is another hilarious early reader starring the completely lovable, chronically grumpy Wolf, a character who affirms kids who fly solo better than with friends.

Kids who are beginning to read on their own won’t be able to get enough of Kiah Thomas’s sarcastic stories, perfect whether read alone or out loud, and K-Fai Steele’s laugh-out-loud illustrations will give any kid, no matter their reading level, a new favorite series.

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Sunset of the Sabertooth Graphic Novel

Mary Pope Osborne

Magic. Mystery. Time-travel. Get whisked away to the Ice Age on a frozen adventure with brother-and-sister team Jack and Annie in the #1 bestselling chapter book series, now available as graphic novels!

The Ice Age is super cool…for two kids in bathing suits! Jack and Annie nearly freeze when the magic tree house whisks them back to the time of cave bears, early humans, and woolly mammoths. But nothing can stop them from having another wild adventure—not even a sabertooth!

For the first time in graphic novel--live the adventure again with new full-color vibrant art that brings the magic to life!

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Miss Liberty

Erin Moonyeen Haley



 

Dumplin' meets the small-town drama of Gilmore Girls in this sparkling debut from Erin Moonyeen Haley.

Twelve-year-old Savvy's only ambition is to be chosen as Miss Liberty in her town's glittertastic Fourth of July parade. In her mind, being Miss Liberty is key to getting everything you want for the rest of your life. And Savvy's anxious mind needs to know what's going to happen for the rest of her life, just like she needs to know what the weather is going to be like every single day. Unfortunately, Savvy is only a dancer in the kick line, while her older sister, Levi, is the glamorous Miss Liberty for the third year in a row.

But this year, Levi seems committed to taking down the parade and crushing Savvy's future dreams, for reasons that neither Savvy nor the town can understand.

Only one thing is for sure: It's up to Savvy to bring the glitter back to her beloved parade, her town, and her sister.

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Billions to Burn

Taylor Banks

National Treasure gets a Harlem Renaissance twist in this epic adventure through New York City, filled with history, humor, and heart

Twelve-year-old Zeus Jones is just about the only person in the world who believes in his grandfather's stories about the Harlem Renaissance. To be fair, they are a bit far-fetched. After all, what are the chances that there was a renowned magazine called Burn! whose headquarters literally burned down, destroying almost every single copy? And who would believe that a secret page was actually hidden amongst the ashes, said to be the key to unlocking a lost fortune? No one, that's who. 

But when Zeus accidentally stumbles upon the secret page on the same day that his grandfather disappears without a trace, he finally has proof that his grandfather's stories are more than just stories--they're real. And now he knows that the secret page is more than just a secret page--it's a treasure map, leading to a prize beyond all imagining. 

Follow the map, find the treasure, save his grandfather. Seems simple enough. But as Zeus and his friends work to solve the riddles of the map, long-buried secrets about the Harlem Renaissance, Black history, and Zeus's own family are unraveled. And what's more, they aren't the only ones intent on seizing this prize. . .

Filled with interactive clues and puzzles, young readers will love solving this mile-a-minute mystery right alongside Zeus!

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Magnolia Wu Unfolds It All

Chanel Miller

A Newbery Honor book and instant New York Times, USA Today, and indie bestseller!

Award-winning author and artist Chanel Miller tells a fun, funny, and poignant story of friendship and community starring Magnolia Wu, a ten-year-old sock detective bent on returning all the lonely only socks left behind in her parents' NYC laundromat.

Down at the bottom of the tall buildings of New York City, Magnolia Wu sits inside her parents’ laundromat. She has pinned every lost sock from the laundromat onto a bulletin board in hopes that customers will return to retrieve them. But no one seems to have noticed. In fact, barely anyone has noticed Magnolia at all. 

What she doesn’t know is that this is about to be her most exciting summer yet. When Iris, a new friend from California arrives, they set off across the city to solve the mystery of each missing sock, asking questions in subways and delis and plant stores and pizzerias, meeting people and uncovering the unimaginable. 

With each new encounter, Magnolia learns that when you’re bold enough to head into the unknown, things start falling into place.

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El Niño

Pam Muñoz Ryan

From the New York Times bestselling author of Esperanza Rising comes a riveting story that blends myth, fantasy, and reality into an entrancing adventure, perfect for fans of Meg Medina, Kate DiCamillo, and Rick Riordan.

* "Glistens like sunlight on waves." --School Library Journal, starred review

* "Ryan's skill as a writer shines." --The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books, starred review

"An inventive, absorbing novel." --New York Times Book Review

Sometimes the only way to hold onto what we love is to let go.

Kai Sosa is so passionate about swimming he is practically a fish. This summer, he's determined to become the athlete he once was on an elite swim team.

But something invisible holds him back. His race times are off. Dreams of his sister Cali haunt him. And he hasn't found her missing gold cuff, her last request. Mom is still talking about grief, even though it's been two years since she disappeared. He's fine now, isn't he?

When Kai discovers a library book Cali had checked out multiple times--about an underwater realm and a mysterious place called the Library of Despair and Sorrow--details from the story begin to appear in his own life: dolphin pods, imposing rock towers, unusual sea creatures, and even Cali's beloved bracelet. As myth and reality collide, El Niño unleashes its fury, and Kai is swept up in a storm of events that will change his understanding of love, death, grief, and how best to honor those we've lost.

Exquisitely packaged with breathtaking illustrations by award-winning artist Joe Cepeda and printed in blue ink.

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Key Player

Kelly Yang

Mia Tang is going for the goal in the fourth Front Desk novel by New York Times bestselling author Kelly Yang!

 

Mia Tang is play to win!

 

The Women's World Cup is coming to Southern California, and everyone has soccer fever--especially Mia Tang! The U.S. team is playing China in the finals, and Mia feels like her two identities are finally coming together. But when her P.E. teacher gives her a C, Mia tries to pull up her grade by scoring interviews with the championship teams. It's not so easy when . . .

 

1. The two teams are hunkered down in secret hotels in Pasadena and not taking any media requests.

2. Mr. Yao is back at the motel--as a co-owner! Jason is sure his dad deserves a second chance. Mia is not so sure.

3. Mia's parents are trying to buy a house of their very own, which turns out to be a LOT harder than they thought!

 

As Mia aims for her goals, she'll have to face strikers from all corners, as well as her own fears. But if anyone can find a way to win big, it's Mia Tang!

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Gus and Glory

Sarah Guillory

Perfect for fans of WISH and BECAUSE OF WINN-DIXIE comes award-winning author Sarah Guillory's latest middle grade tale of found family and the unshakable bond between a girl and her beloved dog.

Twelve-year-old Gloria St. Romain, Glory to everyone who knows her, has always loved mysteries. She spends her time solving puzzles and reading Agatha Christie books, comforted by the knowledge that truth can always be found for those who look closely enough for it.

But when her mom suddenly leaves without a word, Glory is finally faced with the one mystery she can't crack: Why did her mom leave, and where did she go?

Sent to spend the summer with her grandparents, Glory is determined to sniff out the clues to track down her mom. And when Glory comes upon Gus, a bloodhound in need of a friend, she realizes she's been paired with the perfect partner to do just that.

With accessible text and a compulsively readable story, Gus and Glory is a perfect pick for upper elementary and middle school readers.

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Creaky Acres: A Graphic Novel

Calista Brill

A NATIONAL BESTSELLER! 

A heartwarming graphic novel about being the new kid in middle school, making new friends, and learning to trust yourself through the power of horseback riding—perfect for fans of Victoria Jamieson's Roller Girl.

“Readers will fall in love with Nora and her quirky crew, the world of Creaky Acres, and all the horses . . . and cows . . . and possums!” —Varian Johnson, award-winning author of Twins

Nora is a prize-winning horseback rider in a suburban area, with a tight-knit circle of best friends. But when her mom gets a prestigious new job in a poor, rural area, she has to adjust to a lot of change: to being the only Black kid in a new class and to a new barn called Creaky Acres, where her beloved horse, Hay Fever, will make his new home.

It’s there she meets sweet and geeky Laura, goofy and fun-loving Wilson, and fearless Dolores (aka Dizzy). With her ragtag team of equestrians, Nora learns it’s okay to stand out and steps into her power as a leader, realizing that being a rider isn’t just about winning—or maybe that winning just might look different than what she’d thought.

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Candle Island

Lauren Wolk

A moving portrait of loss and the restorative power of art from Lauren Wolk, the Newbery Honor-winning author of Beyond the Bright Sea.

Lucretia Sanderson has a secret.

Lucretia and her mother have come to tiny Candle Island, Maine (Population: Summer, 986; Winter, 315) to escape—escape memories of the car accident that killed her father and escape the journalists that hound her mother, a famous and reclusive artist. The rocky coast and ocean breeze are a welcome respite for Lucretia, who dedicates her summer days to painting, exploring the island, and caring for an orphaned osprey chick.

But Candle Island has secrets of its own—a hidden room in her new house, a mysterious boy with a beautiful voice—and just like the strong tides that surround the shores, they will catch Lucretia in their wake.

With an unforgettable New England setting and a complex web of relationships old and new, Candle Island is a powerful story about art, loss, and the power of being true to your own voice.

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Sweet Valley Twins: The New Girl

Francine Pascal

New kid means new problems for Sweet Valley Twins, Jessica and Elizabeth. When a not-so-nice transfer student arrives the girls must decide if they'll give her a chance or give her the cold shoulder! The fun and drama continues in this New York Times bestselling graphic novel series!

When a new girl moves to Sweet Valley, the Wakefields are ready to welcome her to town -- unfortunately for Jessica and Elizabeth, Brooke Dennis seems to want nothing to do with them - she's the meanest girl they've ever met! The last thing Jessica wants to do is show her around or help her at school.

Elizabeth wonders if maybe there is more going on with Brooke... there has to be a reason she's so mad all the time, right? Will Jessica and Elizabeth give Brooke a chance and find out who she really is? Or is Brooke truly the worst kid in Sweet Valley?

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Top Story

Kelly Yang

The New York Times bestselling Front Desk series continues!

 

Mia Tang is at the top of her game!

 

She's spending winter break with Mom, Lupe, Jason, and Hank in San Francisco's Chinatown! Rich with history and hilarious aunties and uncles, it's the place to find a great story--one she hopes to publish while attending journalism camp at the Tribune. But this trip has as many bumps as the hills of San Francisco . . .

 

1. Mia's camp is full of older kids, with famous relatives, fancy laptops, and major connections! Can she compete with just her pen and passion?

2. Lupe's thinking about skipping ahead to college! Will Mia ever get a chance to just chill with her best friend?

3. Jason's crushing hard on a new girl. For the first time ever, Mia is speechless...and jealous. Can she find the courage to tell Jason--gulp--that she has a crush on him?

 

Even for the best writers, it's not always easy to find the right words. But if anyone can tell a top story, it's Mia Tang!

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I Am Rebel

Ross Montgomery

The Letter for the King meets The Incredible Journey in this story of one dog's quest to save the human he loves.

I'm Tom's dog, and he's my human. We belong to each other.

Rebel is a good dog. He loves his simple, perfect life on the farm with his owner, Tom--until one day, when the war comes too close. Tom is determined to join the rebellion to defeat the king's men, but Rebel knows that war is dangerous, and he will stop at nothing to save his beloved human. How can he bring Tom home before it's too late? A heartwarming adventure told from a dog's perspective as he travels across a pseudo-Civil War Britain on his loyal mission, I Am Rebel holds sure appeal for fans of I, Cosmo; When the Sky Falls; and War Horse.

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A Gift of Dust

Martha Brockenbrough

From two award-winning creators comes a picture book that reveals the hidden wonders of how Saharan Dust impacts the world: from slowing a hurricane to nourishing a rainforest.

This dust . . .
of what lived once
sustains what lives today 
and what will be born . . .
tomorrow.

An ancient catfish becomes a fossil, and as the lake where it lived dries up, the fossil turns to dust--but this isn't ordinary dust. This dust begins in Chad, West Africa, but winds carry it across the continent, over the Atlantic ocean, to nourish and replenish the Amazon rain forest and beyond. 

A Gift of Dust takes readers on a journey that shows just how interconnected our planet is, and how something so small can have such a huge impact. With lyrical, awe-inspiring verse based in fact, and stunning art from a Caldecott honoree, this is a story for our times.

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The Monarch

Kirsten Hall

A gorgeous, lively picture book companion to Kirsten Hall and Isabelle Arsenault’s beloved and acclaimed The Honeybee that celebrates the inspiring journey of the monarch butterfly.

What’s that?
In the air!
Over here?
Over there!

It’s the start of a brand-new story…

With sweetly fluttering verse and lush, gorgeous illustrations, this brightly beautiful picture book celebrates the wonders of monarch butterflies—a treasured species in need of care and preservation!

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Annabelle and the Spaghetti-Confetti Surprise

Jenna Beatrice

Meet Annabelle, a pint-sized party planner with big ideas!

Annabelle, party planner extraordinaire, is working hard on her biggest project yet: the neighborhood block party! With every detail checked--and rechecked--Annabelle's party is ready to impress even the grouchiest of guests. Except for one thing: to pull off her fabulous grand-finale surprise, Annabelle will need some help from her brother, Anthony. But when Anthony's big headphones get in the way of Annabelle's important instructions, it's total chaos! Is Annabelle's perfect party ruined? Or is it TONS OF FUN? Find out in this delightful and hilarious story of misheard words and animal mayhem.

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I Am Ruby Bridges

Ruby Bridges

Ruby Bridges tells her story as never before and shares the events of the momentous day in 1960 when Ruby became the first Black child to integrate the all-white William Franz Elementary as a six year old little girl -- a personal and intimate look through a child's lens at a landmark moment in our Civil Rights history.

 

My work will be precious.

I will bridge the "gap" between Black & white...

...and hopefully all people!

I suppose some things in life are just meant to be.

 

When Ruby Bridges was six years old, she became the first Black child to integrate the all-white William Frantz Elementary in Louisiana. Based on the pivotal events that happened in 1960 and told from her point of view, this is a poetic reflection on her experience that changed the face of history and the trajectory of the Civil Rights movement.

 

I Am Ruby Bridges offers hope and confidence to all children. It is the perfect learning tool for schools and libraries to teach the story of Ruby Bridges and introduce this landmark story to young readers in a powerful new way. This story of innocence and courage is brought to life by NAACP-nominated artist, Nikkolas Smith through stunning and breath-taking illustrations. Embracing the meaning of her name, Bridges reflects with poignancy and heart on the way one brave little girl stood proud to help build a bridge between all people and pave the path for future generations.

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Maddie and Mabel Make a Friend

Kari Allen

Maddie and Mabel are sisters. Maddie and Mabel are friends. Best friends. Will their "best" be put to the test when a moving truck pulls up next door? A new friend is exciting at first. But soon it starts to feel like there is not enough room in the playing and laughing and secret-telling for more than two friends. Healing differences and growing friendships will take a lot of listening, curiosity, a little humor, and open hearts.

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Reel Life: a Graphic Novel

Kane Lynch

A standout graphic novel debut about a boy whose parents unexpectedly divorce, perfect for fans of Stepping Stones, Allergic, and Twins.

 

When Galen's parents reveal that they're splitting up, his life is thrown into chaos. He knows he shouldn't like his dad's home-wrecker girlfriend, Jasmine, but she isn't a jerk like he expected. Then his mom brings home a new boyfriend -- and his teenage daughter! To top it off, Galen's friend Kyle has inexplicably become really mean. To process these confusing emotions, Galen and his best friend, Luna, decide to make a documentary movie all about his parents' divorce. But will the reel life of filmmaking help Galen face his real life?

Author-illustrator Kane Lynch draws on childhood experiences to tell a nuanced and deeply empathetic story about the messy, awkward, and sometimes funny dilemmas that result from evolving families and friendships.

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Pencil & Eraser: Lost and Frown!

Jenny Alvarado

Fans of NARWHAL AND JELLY as well as PIZZA AND TACO, prepare to meet your new favorite duo: a pair of best friend school supplies! In the next adventure of this hilarious early-reader graphic novel series, Pencil and Eraser get lost outside the lines!

Pencil and Eraser are on their way to their first ever karate class—well, their person Stella is and they are tagging along. When Pencil gets a little too excited practicing her ninja moves, she falls right out of Stella’s backpack and lands on the sidewalk! And naturally, Eraser has no choice but to follow her.

Stranded all alone in the big wide world, these two buds will have to use their wits, charm, and of course their impressive ninja moves, to find the dojo and make it safely back into Stella’s backpack before class is over. Between squirrelly obstacles and flashy distractions, will the duo (ahem, Pencil) stay on the straight and narrow long enough to get where they belong? Or will they be doomed to draw outside the lines for good?

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Way Off Track

Carl Brundtland

Step aside for a fresh and funny new voice in middle-grade graphic novels. Nansi has never lost a race … until snobby Tania beats her in an unofficial event. Surely it’s Tania’s flashy shoes that gave her the edge. Nansi has to get a pair before the track tryouts! But how will she kick up $338? This endearing debut hits the ground running with humor, hijinks and a heroine who always goes the distance – even if it’s the wrong way.

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Earl & Worm #1: The Bad Idea and Other Stories

Greg Pizzoli

This sweet, giggle-inducing early reader kicks off a brand-new series featuring two unlikely friends in the tradition of Frog and Toad, from the beloved Geisel Award-winning author of The Watermelon Seed.

Earl and Worm have been friends for a very, very long time, but their friendship had a rocky start. Earl is a happy go-lucky bird who plays saxophone to his plants because they love music in the morning. His neighbor Worm, on the other hand...well, Worm is the exact opposite. She would rather read in silence.

How will these very different neighbors become the very best of friends? With some sweet lemonade, the right shade of paint, and an unfinished poem, and most of all, sharing a little bit about themselves.

Award-winning creator Greg Pizzoli delivers three funny and heartwarming stories that will delight fans of other iconic duos like Elephant and Piggie or Pizza and Taco.

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Otto and the Story Tree

Vivien Mildenberger

In this love letter to the magic of storytelling and connection, a lonely old bird tells stories to a seed, which eventually grows into a tree where animals gather to listen.

A cranky old bird named Otto lives in a dirty and dark house. He could dust, but, ack! Who can be bothered? One day, while making his evening meal, he drops a seed on the floor. He could pick it up, but, ack!, who could be bothered? And so he settles into his armchair and starts to tell a story about being caught in a fierce storm while riding in a hot air balloon. When he wakes up the next morning, the seed has sprouted. And so, at the end of the day, he settles in to spin another yarn. Finally, the sprout is a full-grown tree, which grows right through the top of the house, and animals gather in its top branches every night to listen to one of Otto’s marvelous stories.
Here is a picture book that celebrates the power of imagination and the connections that are made through storytelling.

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Goodbye Spring, Hello Summer

Kenard Pak

As the sun shines bright, rainy days disappear, and new flowers begin to bloom, everyone knows—summer is on its way!

Join a young girl as she roams grassy plains and shady forests, greeting all the signs of the coming season. In a series of conversations with everything from the rolling hills to the chickadees up above, she says goodbye to spring and welcomes the liveliness of summer.

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Hedgehogs Don't Wear Underwear

Marissa Valdez

From #1 New York Times-bestselling Marissa Valdez comes a hilariously zany and uproariously fun story of an underwear-obsessed hedgehog perfect for fans of Dragons Love Tacos and Millie Fleur's Poison Garden!

Jacques is a little hedgehog with a BIG secret — he loves wearing underwear! But the hedgehog world has rules . . . You see, hedgehogs eat grubs. They make nests. They snort with their sniffly snouts. They do NOT. WEAR. UNDERWEAR. So what's a critter to do about his undercover love of underpants? 

Will Jacques muster the bravery he needs to fully embrace himself and share his love of tighty-whities with the world? 

Get ready to fall head over heinie for this hilarious and unforgettable tale of identity, self-acceptance — and undies.

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Don't Trust Cats

Dev Petty

Chip the dog from Don't Eat Bees is back, with more "wisdom" to share, including some hard-won life lessons about cats. From the favorite picture book comic duo of Dev Petty and Mike Boldt.

Chip has been described as very smart and also a dog. And because he's a very good boy, he's going to share his tips on how to live your best life, namely: Don't trust cats. Not even the little, fluffy ones with big eyes. Nohow, no meow.

Trust the squirrel you always chase, trust grandpa (sure, he cheats at cards but he always has treats), and trust that skunk (he seems nice. What could possibly go wrong?). Do NOT trust cats, especially not Mittens.

In this fabulously funny pet story, dog AND cat lovers will enjoy seeing their own fur-friends in Chip's earnest yet ridiculous guide to life.

Also available: Don't Eat Bees (Life Lessons from Chip the Dog)

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The History of We

Nikkolas Smith

An awe-inspiring picture book about the origin and advancement of humans, from author and #1 New York Times bestselling illustrator Nikkolas Smith.

Fossil records show that the first humans were born in Africa. Meaning, every person on Earth can trace their ancestry back to that continent. The History of We celebrates our shared ancestors' ingenuity and achievements and imagines what these firsts would have looked and felt like.

What was it like for the first person to paint, to make music, to dance, to discover medicine, to travel to unknown lands? It required courage, curiosity, and skill. 

The History of We takes what we know about modern human civilization and, through magnificent paintings, creates a tale about our shared beginnings in a way that centers Black people in humankind's origin story.

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Firefly Season

Cynthia Leitich Smith



 

Written by the award-winning, bestselling author of Jingle Dancer, Cynthia Leitich Smith (Muscogee), and filled with tender illustrations by Kate Gardiner (Nipmuck), this unforgettable, warmhearted picture book is for family and the friends who become family.

Piper feels grateful for visits with her relatives, especially for the time spent with her cousins in Cherokee Nation and Muscogee Nation during summer vacations, fishing on misty mornings and playing on firefly-filled evenings. Piper's family lives a road trip away in Kansas City. So when a neighbor named Sumi moves in next door, Piper is excited to share her stories and seasons with a new friend.

The two are inseparable--until Piper's family moves to another city. Their bond overcomes distance, and with time, Piper dreams up a plan to reunite with the people she loves most of all.

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You Be Teacher

Karla Clark

Karla Clark's You Be series continues with You Be Teacher, a humorous and tender story about educators and all they do for their students. 


Teacher is simply too tired to be Teacher today! She taught the seasons, then got splattered with paint and smeared with glue. She even bandaged a student’s boo-boo. 

All this before noon?! This exhausted teacher playfully tries to convince her students to fill her shoes for the day so she can take a much-needed break.

In a story with notes of tenderness and some very relatable humor, a devoted teacher knows what really matters at the end of the day: the care and well-being of her students. 

Now more than ever, we're aware of all that teachers do for us and future generations, receiving very little in return. You Be Teacher embodies the true giving nature of educators, with a heartfelt thank-you in its conclusion.

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Life

Jennifer N. R. Smith

From the author of Glow and Bang, using luminous printing, Life immerses readers in the wonders of life on our wild planet.
 

Life is the third book in the highly acclaimed series by award-winning author and illustrator Jennifer N. R. Smith. This immersive, intricately illustrated book printed in luminous HUV ink takes young readers on a tour of our wild planet and showcases the wonders of its biodiversity. Discover what makes flamingos pink, how bat saliva can help save people's lives, and much more.

This beautiful book introduces the concept of biodiversity to children and explains why it's so important to the world we live in. Learn how unlikely animal friends rely on each other for survival: from the crab that uses sea anemones as boxing gloves to shrimp that ride around on sea slugs, and discover why there would be no chocolate without pesky midges!

Stunning illustrations and informative diagrams bring to life important concepts, such as food chains, pollination, and genetic diversity, and the difference between a biome and a habitat, as well as demonstrating remarkable ways that different species have adapted to their natural environment.

Life highlights the importance of protecting and supporting biodiversity in our natural world and looks at ways that we can help to save our planet's wildlife. A feast for the eyes and the mind, Life will inspire young ecologists to see the wonder in the natural world around them.

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Bang

Jennifer N. R. Smith

Using luminous HUV printing, Bang immerses readers in the awe-inspiring phenomena of the natural world.

In this follow up to the highly acclaimed Glow, award-winning illustrator Jennifer N. R. Smith takes us on a breathtaking tour of the planet's most astonishing natural phenomena - from explosive volcanoes and geysers to dancing lights in the night sky.

The Earth may seem solid and stationary but deep beneath its surface it is constantly changing, twisting and transforming. Its unbridled power is what generates surreal natural phenomena and dramatic landscapes, as well as devastating natural disasters.

In this lavishly illustrated book, young readers will discover the explosive power of volcanoes, a cave filled with giant crystals, a hot spring pool filled with bathing snow monkeys, dinosaurs hidden between layers of rock and an incredible ecosystem that can survive the boiling hot waters around hydrothermal vents, as well as extreme weather and incredible optical phenomena, including auroras, light pillars and sun dogs.

Hyper-detailed, glorious and awe-inspiring in and of itself, this book will inspire young earth scientists to see the wonder in the world around them.

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Eyewitness Encyclopedia of Animals

Kat Day

Experience the world's most incredible animals in one amazing book.

Become an eyewitness to the world's most amazing animals in this picture-led encyclopedia which will take children aged 9+ on a tour of the marvellous animal kingdom.

Like the hugely successful Eyewitness series itself, Eyewitness Encyclopedia of Animals includes every animal topic children want to read about. The world's most amazing animals are here, from tiny ants to the mighty blue whale and soaring eagles to relaxed sloths. Each page is illustrated with jaw-dropping photography and filled with facts and images that are ideal for children aged 9+.

This fact-packed animal encyclopedia for children offers:

  • The next book in the new Eyewitness Encyclopedia series, following the epic Eyewitness Encyclopedia of Everything that's sold over 100,000 copies.
  • Exciting photography, more than 1,500 images, and a clear design, familiar from the rebooted Eyewitness series.
  • Features that are full of facts and stats, quizzes, and interviews with experts, including deep sea explorers and veterinary surgeons, who answer kids' questions about what they do and why they love it.


Eyewitness Encyclopedia of Animals introduces the ultimate guide to the wonders of wildlife, from deadly predators to beautiful butterflies, all as you've never seen them before. And meet the experts who study them, from entomologists to zoologists, in absorbing Q&As that explain what they do. With its mix of nerdy knowledge, fun facts, and incredible images, this extraordinary book will keep kids engaged for hours.

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Fireworks

Matthew Burgess

Fireworks is a sparkling picture book from the award-winning team of Matthew Burgess and Cátia Chien, highlighting the simple delights of a steamy July day in the city as two siblings eagerly anticipate a spectacular fireworks display.

POP!

As a hot day sizzles into evening, everyone on stoops and sidewalks looks skyward on this special summer night--the Fourth of July! Words and art blossom into flowers of fire across the sky, making this a perfect read for firework enthusiasts in cities and suburbs everywhere.

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Yummy World: Sweeter with Friends

Shoshana Stopek

Meet Rosie the Cupcake on her very first adventure in this officially licensed Yummy World picture book, which includes one sheet of character stickers!



Rosie the Cupcake has just moved into 5 Sugar High Rise. As Yummy World's first resident architect and engineer, she is super excited to design a brand-new icing factory. Everyone in Sugar High Rise offers to help, but Rosie insists she can do it all on her own. When things don't go as planned though, Rosie wonders if she made a huge mistake. As she works on rebuilding both her relationships and the factory, she learns that one of the most important parts of any project is teamwork. Besides, life is much sweeter with friends!



This officially licensed picture book is the debut of Yummy World's brand new plush character, Rosie the Cupcake and features other characters from this popular plush line including Haley the Heart-Shaped Cookie, Finn Funfetti Cake Cube, Roy the Rainbow Cake, and others!

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Too Much Noise for Mia!

Connie Colwell Miller

When Mia, who is autistic, goes along to watch her brother in a basketball game, she is overwhelmed by the loud noises and bright lights but her Dad helps her calm down so they are able to cheer him on as he makes a basket.

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