Good-Bye Pink Pig    Ten-year-old Amanda is afraid to go to middle school, so she pretends to be sick and stays home with her miniature figurines. Playing with them, she is transported to a magical Little World where an evil wizard lurks.Prydain Chronicles 1: The Book of Three  Taran, The Assistant Pig-Keeper, longs to be a hero.He begins his journey with a strange assortment of companions on a dangerous mission to save his beloved land, Prydain. Packed with action, humor, romance, and gallantry, Taran's adventures chronicle his beloved Prydain and his battle with the forces of evil. Prydain Chronicles 2: The Black Cauldron  In the imaginary Land of Prydain, where "evil is never distant," it has become imperative that the Black Cauldron, chief implement of the diabolical Arawn, be destroyed. In this cauldron Arawn has created his terrible army of deathless warriors from the stolen bodies of the slain. For each of those chosen to journey to Arawn's domain, the quest has a special meaning, and to Taran, Assistant Pig-Keeper, the adventure becomes a glorious opportunity to wear his first sword and prove himself a man among men.From the Trade Paperback edition. Ms. Marvel 1: No Normal  Marvel Comics presents the all-new Ms. Marvel, the groundbreaking heroine that has become an international sensation! Kamala Khan is an ordinary girl from Jersey City - until she is suddenly empowered with extraordinary gifts. But who truly is the all-new Ms. Marvel? Teenager? Muslim? Inhuman? Find out as she takes the Marvel Universe by storm! As Kamala discovers the dangers of her newfound powers, she unlocks a secret behind them as well. Is Kamala ready to wield these immense new gifts? Or will the weight of the legacy before her be too much to handle? Kamala has no idea either. But she's comin' for you, New York! It's history in the making from acclaimed writer G. Willow Wilson (Air, Cairo) and beloved artist Adrian Alphona (Runaways)!COLLECTING: MS. MARVEL 1-5, MATERIAL FROM ALL-NEW MARVEL NOW! POINT ONE The Door in the Wall  As the son of a nobleman, Robin’s destiny is changed suddenly when he falls ill and loses the use of his legs. When the great castle of Lindsay is in danger, Robin discovers that there is more than one way to serve his king.Origami Yoda 1: The Strange Case of Origami Yoda  In this funny, uncannily wise portrait of the dynamics of a sixth-grade class and of the greatness that sometimes comes in unlikely packages, Dwight, a loser, talks to his classmates via an origami finger puppet of Yoda. If that weren’t strange enough, the puppet is uncannily wise and prescient. Origami Yoda predicts the date of a pop quiz, guesses who stole the classroom Shakespeare bust, and saves a classmate from popularity-crushing embarrassment with some well-timed advice. Dwight’s classmate Tommy wonders how Yoda can be so smart when Dwight himself is so clueless. With contributions from his puzzled classmates, he assembles the case file that forms this novel.Origami Yoda 3: The Secret of the Fortune Wookiee  With Dwight attending Tippett Academy this semester, the kids of McQuarrie Middle School are on their ownno Origami Yoda to give advice and help them navigate the treacherous waters of middle school. Then Sara gets a gift she says is from Dwighta paper fortune-teller in the form of Chewbacca. It’s a Fortune Wookiee, and it seems to give advice that’s just as good as Yoda’seven if, in the hands of the girls, it seems too preoccupied with romance. In the meantime, Dwight is fitting in a little too well at Tippett. Has the unimaginable happened? Has Dwight become normal? It’s up to his old friends at McQuarrie to remind their kooky friend that it’s in his weirdness that his greatness lies.With his proven knack for humorously exploring the intrigues, fads, and dramas of middle school, Tom Angleberger has crafted a worthy follow-up to his breakout bestsellers The Strange Case of Origami Yoda and Darth Paper Strikes Back. Praise for The Secret of the Fortune Wookiee STARRED REVIEW "Angleberger’s third in the series continues the fun. A chorus of spot-on middle school voices and plenty of laughs are wrapped around this tale of friendship and seasoned with Star Wars references." Kirkus Reviews, starred review "Tom Angleberger offers a hilarious third book in his best-selling series starring origami Star Wars characters. Angleberger’s grasp of middle-school emotions, humor and behavior is spot-on, and parents who want to get a sense of what it’s like be a preteen these days might consider reading this book. But you'll likely have to pry it out of your young reader’s hands first." Scripps Howard News Service Award 2013 ReadKiddoRead Kiddos - FINALIST Animorphs 13: The Change  Ever since he morphed into a red-tailed hawk, Tobias has not been about to return to human form. Now an Ellimist has returned Tobias' power to get out of his hawk morph and to transform into other animals. But will Tobias ever really be human again? Ages 9-12. Pub: 12/97. .Animorphs 14: The Unknown  There's a new rumor in town. Someone has discovered an item that proves life on other planets exists. And they've been hiding it on a base called Zone 91—the most secret place on earth. Cassie, the other Animorphs, and Ax already know about life on other planets. They realize that the Yeerks will try to access Zone 91 to find out if what's there will threaten their mission. So the Animorphs decide to pay Zone 91 and the Yeerks a little visit. But what they discover is not at all what they expect.Animorphs: The Ellimist Chronicles  As an unnamed Animorph (later revealed to be Rachel) lies on the brink of death, the Ellimist appears and recounts to her his origins as Azure Level, Seven Spar, Extension Two, Down-Messenger, Forty-One (Toomin) the Ketran and his transfiguration into the Ellimist as a final request to the dying Animorph. The Ketran race was virtually extinguished by the Capasins, who had seen transmissions of violent virtual Ketran games that had been broadcast into space and mistook them for a violent species that meddled with other ones. Toomin/Ellimist was one of the few survivors. These survivors became space nomads, seeking a replacement for their home Ket. Toomin became the leader of this group and was the only survivor when it crash-landed on a mostly aquatic moon. His mind was absorbed and kept alive at the bottom of the sea by a moon spanning entity known as Father that absorbed the information in the brain (or equivalent) of every corpse on it. After defeating Father at music, Toomin began to grow too intelligent for Father and defeated him, incorporating all the memories of corpses on the moon, eventually becoming a blending of minds.After he defeated Father he began to wander the universe without purpose until he started to resolve conflicts and crises under the name Ellimist. The Ellimist worked like this for several thousand years until he encountered theCrayak, who existed to destroy all life in galaxies, a strong antithesis to what the Ellimist had come to stand for. Crayak engaged Ellimist in games that had entire planets at stake. Ellimist did not fare well and lost far more often than he won. Losing motivation to continue fighting the Crayak, the Ellimist temporarily retreated to the Andalitehome planet, possibly beginning his worship as an Andalite god. (The Ellimist created the Andalite race after taking bits and pieces from himself and all the people he knew and loved.) The Andalites at the time were not the advanced civilization but a primitive collection of tribes. By living on the planet as an Andalite, the Ellimist learned that the key of survival was to create as many offspring as possible; although so many die, with repeated efforts life could multiply faster than the Crayak could wipe them out. With a renewed vigor, the Ellimist fought the Crayak, creating the Pemalites, creators of the Chee, who spread quickly throughout the galaxy (until they were destroyed by Crayak's own creations, the Howlers). Although, the Crayak eventually destroyed the Ellimist physically by luring him into a black hole, the Ellimist found himself fully integrated into the fabric of space-time. Soon, both the Crayak and the Ellimist recognised direct combat to be much too dangerous for themselves and space-time itself. To prevent such catastrophic damage, the Crayak and the Ellimist agree to construct the intricate "game" they are seen to play in theAnimorphs series. Julieta and the Diamond Enigma  Whittington  Whittington is a roughneck Tom who arrives one day at a barn full of rescued animals and asks for a place there. He spins for the animals—as well as for Ben and Abby, the kids whose grandfather does the rescuing—a yarn about his ancestor, the nameless cat who brought Dick Whittington to the heights of wealth and power in 16th-century England. This is an unforgettable tale about the healing, transcendent power of storytelling, and how learning to read saves one little boy.Whittington  Whittington is a roughneck Tom who arrives one day at a barn full of rescued animals and asks for a place there. He spins for the animals—as well as for Ben and Abby, the kids whose grandfather does the rescuing—a yarn about his ancestor, the nameless cat who brought Dick Whittington to the heights of wealth and power in 16th-century England. This is an unforgettable tale about the healing, transcendent power of storytelling, and how learning to read saves one little boy.Steal Away ... to Freedom  Two girls, one black, the other white, flee from the South to the North in a novel set during the Civil War. Reprint. H. PW. K.Steal Away ... to Freedom  Two girls, one black, the other white, flee from the South to the North in a novel set during the Civil War. Reprint. H. PW. K.Horrible Science: Blood, Bones, and Body Bits  Horrible Science: Bulging Brains  Discover why ice-cream gives you a headache, how chopping your brain in half needn't be fatal, and whether girls or boys are the real masterminds in this book about grey matter. Fact files, quizzes, teacher tests and cartoons are included.Horrible Science: Bulging Brains  Discover why ice-cream gives you a headache, how chopping your brain in half needn't be fatal, and whether girls or boys are the real masterminds in this book about grey matter. Fact files, quizzes, teacher tests and cartoons are included.Horrible Science: Bulging Brains  Horrible Science: Chemical Chaos  "Horrible Science" is getting a make-over! With a fantastic new cover look and a extra horrible bits at the back of the book, these best-selling titles are sure to be a huge hit with a new generation of "Horrible Science" readers.Horrible Science: Disgusting Digestion  It's science with the squishy bits left in! What disease makes your eyes bleed? Why can't astronauts eat beans before a space flight? Which part of your brain makes you throw up? Get the awful answers in "Disgusting Digestion".Horrible Science: Disgusting Digestion  Horrible Science: Fatal Forces  Continuing our "Horrible Science" paperback bind-up programme, this title brings together two popular subjects in the physics strad of the series. In "Fatal Forces" readers will find out what keeps the moon in the sky and what happens when an apple smacks a scientist on the bonce! In "The Fight for Flight" you'll laugh at some seriously silly flyingHorrible Science: Fatal Forces  Continuing our "Horrible Science" paperback bind-up programme, this title brings together two popular subjects in the physics strad of the series. In "Fatal Forces" readers will find out what keeps the moon in the sky and what happens when an apple smacks a scientist on the bonce! In "The Fight for Flight" you'll laugh at some seriously silly flyingHorrible Science: Frightening Light  This is science with the squishy bits left in! What stops your eyeballs from falling out? Why can dead bodies make ghostly glowing lights? How can a laser beam sizzle human flesh? Get the awful answers in "Frightening Light"!Horrible Science: Sounds Dreadful  If you think that you can stomach the sick side of science, then read on as the world of rumbling resonance, shocking sound waves and sonic boom gets a sound check. Find out how sound waves make your ear drums tremble and why listening to church bells might give you a nose bleed!Horrible Science: The Terrible Truth About Time  Find out what happens if you go too close to a black hole and how flies tell the time! With a fantastic new cover look and extra horrible bits at the back of the book, this best-selling title is sure to be a huge hit with a new generation of Horrible Science readers.Captain Grey  Young Kevin Cartwright is the prisoner of a pirate king."I shall find a way to get free." "Free!" he shouted. "You are here, with us now. You can forget about your father and your sister, or anybody else you may have known. You belong to no nation but this nation. Put him back where he was and don't feed him. Tomorrow we shall talk again about freedom!" Midnight Magic  Reintroducing a magical, bestselling medieval mystery from a Newbery-winning author! The release coincides with Avi's exciting new companion to this book, MURDER AT MIDNIGHT.Night after night, a ghost appears in the royal castle of Pergamontio, terrifying the princess. Mangus the Magician doesn't believe in ghosts, but that doesn't stop him from being charged with finding this one. The King demands that Mangus free his daughter from the torment of the ghost. . . otherwise, the magician will pay with his life. Mangus's only hope is his faithful, street-smart servant boy, Fabrizio, who must solve the mystery of the ghost using logic and reason — and a bit of magic of his own. The Man Who Was Poe  In Providence, R.I., in 1848, Edgar Allan Poe reluctantly investigates the problems of eleven-year-old Edmund, whose family has mysteriously disappeared and whose story suggests a new Poe tale with a ghastly final twist.The Man Who Was Poe  It is night and Edmund is all alone. His mother is gone. His sister has disappeared. Edmund has no one, except for a dark and mysterious stranger who follows him through the cold and shadowy city with offers of help. But who is this stranger who gives Edmund refuge? He has a mission of his own and he needs Edmund, but he tells him nothing of his purpose. Yet the stranger is Edmund's only hope of discovering the dark secrets that surround the disappearance of his family...The Search for Delicious  This engaging story begins with a brief glimpse into the past when dwarfs, woldwellers (forest dwarfs), mermaids, and winds of the air openly inhabited the earth. The actual story unfolds much further in the future, when these amazing creatures, mostly forgotten, live in secret places. DeCree, the Prime Minister, inadvertently provokes an upheaval of the townspeople with his attempt to define the word 'delicious' for the official dictionary. Although other of his definitions have been well recieved ... he cannot secure approval for 'Delicious is fried fish,' because each government official has his own personal food preference. To alleviate the situation, DeCree's 12-year-old special assistant and adopted son, Gaylen, polls all the citizens fortheir choices. The villian of the story, the Queen's brother Hemlock, convinces the townspeople that the King will, upon outcome of the poll, prohibit the eating of certain foods; he futher instigates revolt by dammign up the water supply, but Gaylen with the help fo a mermaid foils this and a definition fo delicous is finally agreed upon . . . The definition of this well-constructed-story, combining fine imagery, humor, strong characterizations, legend, and an unobtrusive theme of good versus evil, is: a good book for children hungry for light entertainment.The Search for Delicious  This engaging story begins with a brief glimpse into the past when dwarfs, woldwellers (forest dwarfs), mermaids, and winds of the air openly inhabited the earth. The actual story unfolds much further in the future, when these amazing creatures, mostly forgotten, live in secret places. DeCree, the Prime Minister, inadvertently provokes an upheaval of the townspeople with his attempt to define the word 'delicious' for the official dictionary. Although other of his definitions have been well recieved ... he cannot secure approval for 'Delicious is fried fish,' because each government official has his own personal food preference. To alleviate the situation, DeCree's 12-year-old special assistant and adopted son, Gaylen, polls all the citizens fortheir choices. The villian of the story, the Queen's brother Hemlock, convinces the townspeople that the King will, upon outcome of the poll, prohibit the eating of certain foods; he futher instigates revolt by dammign up the water supply, but Gaylen with the help fo a mermaid foils this and a definition fo delicous is finally agreed upon . . . The definition of this well-constructed-story, combining fine imagery, humor, strong characterizations, legend, and an unobtrusive theme of good versus evil, is: a good book for children hungry for light entertainment.The Frog Princess  Princess Emeralda a.ka. Emma isn't exactly an ideal princess. Her laugh is more like a donkey's bray than tinkling bells, she trips over her own feet and she does "not" like Prince Jorge, whom her mother hopes she will marry. But if Emma ever thought to escape her troubles, she never expected it to happen by turning into a frog! When convinced to kiss a frog so he might return to being a prince, somehow the spell is reversed and Emma turns into a frog herself!Thus begins their adventure — a quest to return to human form. Fascinating and hilarious characters ranging from a self-conscious but friendly bat to a surprisingly loyal snake and a wise green witch confirm that readers won't soon forget this madcap story. A fantastic debut from the talented E.D. Baker. The First Woman Doctor  An interesting biography of Elizabeth Blackwell, the first woman doctor, who founded a women's hospital and medical college. "Well-written in a genial, easy style." — Library JournalThe First Woman Doctor  An interesting biography of Elizabeth Blackwell, the first woman doctor, who founded a women's hospital and medical college. "Well-written in a genial, easy style." — Library JournalThe First Woman Doctor  An interesting biography of Elizabeth Blackwell, the first woman doctor, who founded a women's hospital and medical college. "Well-written in a genial, easy style." — Library JournalAbraham's Battle: A Novel of Gettysburg  Abraham, an ex-slave, tries his best to prepare himself and the little girl in his charge for the Confederate soldiers who have begun filing into Gettysburg. When he comes face-to-face with a young Southern soldier, he's suspicious — Lamar is, after all, the enemy. Once they begin discussing the war and the general state of events, though, the two find some common ground. They might be friends — if Lamar wasn't from Georgia, and in Gettysburg to fight.When Lamar falls in battle, it is not one of his fellow soldiers who helps him off the battlefield — it is Abraham. One friend helps another. Few had seen such courage and honesty in the Civil War, however, and Abraham's deed does not go unnoticed or unrewarded. He in fact receives the highest honor imaginable... Go Long!  Tiki and Ronde were the stars of their Pee Wee football team, the Cave Springs Vikings. But middle school is much bigger than elementary school and it’s a whole different game—on and off the field. When Coach Spangler takes a job coaching for the high school team and Tiki’s old science teacher Mr. Wheeler is tapped for the middle school coaching job, the beginning of the school year and the football season is off to a bumpy start. But through working together, the boys discover that the whole team is bigger than any of its parts.A Bear Named Trouble  Ten-year-old Jonathan practically lives at the Anchorage Zoo, where his father is a keeper. He loves animals, and even imagines himself inside their bodies, seeing what they see, feeling what they feel.Meanwhile, a young brown bear is wandering through the woods near Anchorage, alone and hungry. One night, while searching for food, the bear crosses paths with Jonathan, who eagerly follows him onto the zoo grounds. But when the bear accidentally kills Mama Goose, Jonathan’s favorite zoo creature, the boy loses the empathy he had felt earlier. He wishes that the bearnow nicknamed Troublewould meet the same fate as his beloved goose, and he impulsively takes steps to make sure that happens. Based on an actual incident, and told in alternating chapters from the bear’s and Jonathan’s points of view, this is both an involving animal story and a thought-provoking investigation into the consequences of one’s actions. A Bear Named Trouble  Ten-year-old Jonathan practically lives at the Anchorage Zoo, where his father is a keeper. He loves animals, and even imagines himself inside their bodies, seeing what they see, feeling what they feel.Meanwhile, a young brown bear is wandering through the woods near Anchorage, alone and hungry. One night, while searching for food, the bear crosses paths with Jonathan, who eagerly follows him onto the zoo grounds. But when the bear accidentally kills Mama Goose, Jonathan’s favorite zoo creature, the boy loses the empathy he had felt earlier. He wishes that the bearnow nicknamed Troublewould meet the same fate as his beloved goose, and he impulsively takes steps to make sure that happens. Based on an actual incident, and told in alternating chapters from the bear’s and Jonathan’s points of view, this is both an involving animal story and a thought-provoking investigation into the consequences of one’s actions. Who Comes with Cannons?  When Truth Hopkins's father dies, she goes to live with her uncle and his family on their North Carolina farm. Like Truth, the Bardwells are Quakers. They oppose slavery but refuse to take up arms in the civil war that is now being waged to end this inhuman institution. Then one day, a runaway slave takes refuge on the Bardwell farm and, to Truth's amazement, her uncle hides him from the slave catchers. Even more puzzling, he asks her to accompany him when he deliverswagonload of hay to a neighbor late: that night.This ride, and the wagon's real cargo, involve Truth in a mysterious and dangerous underground movement — and reveal how she can help further the cause of freedom without the use of a rifle. Patricia Beatty, best-selling author and winner of the Scott O'Dell Award for Historical Fiction, takes readers on an unforgettable trip aboard the Underground Railroad. Her powerful story of the Civil War captures the secrecy, suspense, and heroism of this little-known chapter in America's history and will long be remembered by readers. Who Comes with Cannons?  When Truth Hopkins's father dies, she goes to live with her uncle and his family on their North Carolina farm. Like Truth, the Bardwells are Quakers. They oppose slavery but refuse to take up arms in the civil war that is now being waged to end this inhuman institution. Then one day, a runaway slave takes refuge on the Bardwell farm and, to Truth's amazement, her uncle hides him from the slave catchers. Even more puzzling, he asks her to accompany him when he deliverswagonload of hay to a neighbor late: that night.This ride, and the wagon's real cargo, involve Truth in a mysterious and dangerous underground movement — and reveal how she can help further the cause of freedom without the use of a rifle. Patricia Beatty, best-selling author and winner of the Scott O'Dell Award for Historical Fiction, takes readers on an unforgettable trip aboard the Underground Railroad. Her powerful story of the Civil War captures the secrecy, suspense, and heroism of this little-known chapter in America's history and will long be remembered by readers. Who Comes with Cannons?  When Truth Hopkins's father dies, she goes to live with her uncle and his family on their North Carolina farm. Like Truth, the Bardwells are Quakers. They oppose slavery but refuse to take up arms in the civil war that is now being waged to end this inhuman institution. Then one day, a runaway slave takes refuge on the Bardwell farm and, to Truth's amazement, her uncle hides him from the slave catchers. Even more puzzling, he asks her to accompany him when he deliverswagonload of hay to a neighbor late: that night.This ride, and the wagon's real cargo, involve Truth in a mysterious and dangerous underground movement — and reveal how she can help further the cause of freedom without the use of a rifle. Patricia Beatty, best-selling author and winner of the Scott O'Dell Award for Historical Fiction, takes readers on an unforgettable trip aboard the Underground Railroad. Her powerful story of the Civil War captures the secrecy, suspense, and heroism of this little-known chapter in America's history and will long be remembered by readers. Rip and Red 1: A Whole New Ballgame  Fifth grade is one crazy ride in this middle grade novel about two best friends.Rip and Red are best friends whose fifth-grade year is nothing like what they expected. They have a crazy new tattooed teacher named Mr. Acevedo, who doesn't believe in tests or homework and who likes off-the-wall projects, the more "off" the better. And guess who's also their new basketball coach? Mr. Acevedo! Easy-going Rip is knocked completely out of his comfort zone. And for Red, who has autism and really needs things to be exactly a certain way, the changes are even more of a struggle. But together these two make a great duo who know how to help each other―and find ways to make a difference―in the classroom and on the court. With its energetic and authentic story and artwork, A Whole New Ballgame by Phil Bildner is a fresh, fun book about school, sports, and friendship. “Cartoony illustrations lend energy and personality to the likable cast of characters. A school story with heart.” ―Kirkus Reviews This title has Common Core connections. Doll Bones  Discover the Newbery Honor winner Doll Bones, from Holly Black, the cocreator of the Spiderwick Chronicles. A Kirkus Reviews Best Book. A School Library Journal Best Book. A Booklist Editor’s Choice Books for Youth. A Publishers Weekly Best Children’s Book. A NYPL “100 Titles for Reading and Sharing.” A 2013 Goodreads Choice award nominee. A People Magazine “Best New Kids Book.” Six starred reviews!Winner of a 2014 Newbery Honor Medal. Zach, Poppy, and Alice have been friends forever. And for almost as long, they’ve been playing one continuous, ever-changing game of pirates and thieves, mermaids and warriors. Ruling over all is the Great Queen, a bone-china doll cursing those who displease her. But they are in middle school now. Zach’s father pushes him to give up make-believe, and Zach quits the game. Their friendship might be over, until Poppy declares she’s been having dreams about the Queen—and the ghost of a girl who will not rest until the bone-china doll is buried in her empty grave. Zach and Alice and Poppy set off on one last adventure to lay the Queen’s ghost to rest. But nothing goes according to plan, and as their adventure turns into an epic journey, creepy things begin to happen. Is the doll just a doll or something more sinister? And if there really is a ghost, will it let them go now that it has them in its clutches? Doll Bones is a winner of the Newbery Honor, is the recipient of six starred reviews, was on four Best Book lists, and was called "perfect" by The New York Times. The California Gold Rush  Describes adventures and disasters in the lives of people who rushed to the gold mines of California in 1848 and explains how this event sparked the state's development.The California Gold Rush  Describes adventures and disasters in the lives of people who rushed to the gold mines of California in 1848 and explains how this event sparked the state's development.The California Gold Rush  The Santa Fe Trail  Introduces the history and economic purpose of the Santa Fe Trail and the resulting settlement of the Southwest United States.The Santa Fe Trail  Introduces the history and economic purpose of the Santa Fe Trail and the resulting settlement of the Southwest United States.The Santa Fe Trail  Tangerine  Paul Fisher¹s older brother has always been the football-playing hero of the family. But when the Fishers move to Tangerine, Florida, Paul enters a place where weird is normal. And suddenly the blind can see. TANGERINE as named a 1997 American Bookseller Pick of the Lists, an ALA Top-Ten Best Book, a Horn Book Fanfare Book, a Publishers Weekly Best Book of the Year, and an Edgar Award Nominee.A Gathering of Days: A New England Girl's Journal, 1830-32  This novel, written in diary form, tells of "a pivotal year for 19th-century New Englander Catherine Cabot Hill—one of change, loss, and leave taking . . . a low-key, intense and reflective book".—"School Library Journal", starred review. 1980 Newbery Award book.The Name of this Book Is Secret  This is the story about a secret. but it also contains a secret story.When adventurous detectives, Cass, an ever-vigilant survivalist, and Max-Ernest, a boy driven by logic, discover the Symphony of Smells, a box filled with smelly vials of colorful ingredients, they accidentally stumble upon a mystery surrounding a dead magician's diary and the hunt for immortality. Filled with word games, anagrams, and featuring a mysterious narrator, this is a book that won't stay secret for long. Green Knowe 1: The Children of Green Knowe  L. M. Boston's thrilling and chilling tales of Green Knowe, a haunted manor deep in an overgrown garden in the English countryside, have been entertaining readers for half a century. Now the children of Green Knowe—both alive and ghostly—are back in appealing new editions.The spooky original illustrations have been retained, but dramatic new cover art by Brett Helquist (illustrator of A Series of Unfortunate Events) gives the books a fresh, timeless appeal for today's readers. River Boy  Fifteen-year-old Jess's grandfather has just had a major heart attack, but he insists he finish his painting, River Boy. At first, Jess cannot understand why this painting is so important to her grandfather, especially since there doesn't seem to be any boy in it at all. But while swimming in the river herself, Jess begins to feel the presence of a strange boy. Could this be the same one her ailing grandfather struggles to paint? And if so, why has he returned?Masterpiece  Marvin lives with his family under the kitchen sink in the Pompadays’ apartment. He is very much a beetle. James Pompaday lives with his family in New York City. He is very much an eleven-year-old boy.After James gets a pen-and-ink set for his birthday, Marvin surprises him by creating an elaborate miniature drawing. James gets all the credit for the picture and before these unlikely friends know it they are caught up in a staged art heist at the Metropolitan Museum of Art that could help recover a famous drawing by Albrecht Dürer. But James can’t go through with the plan without Marvin’s help. And that’s where things get really complicated (and interesting!). This fast-paced mystery will have young readers on the edge of their seats as they root for boy and beetle. In Shakespeare’s Secret Elise Broach showed her keen ability to weave storytelling with history and suspense, and Masterpiece is yet another example of her talent. This time around it’s an irresistible miniature world, fascinating art history, all wrapped up in a special friendship— something for everyone to enjoy. Masterpiece is a 2009 Bank Street - Best Children's Book of the Year.Gratefully Yours  In 1923, nine-year-old Hattie rides the Orphan Train from New York to Nebraska where she must adjust to a strange new life with a farmer and his wife, who is despondent over the loss of her two children.Gratefully Yours  In 1923, nine-year-old Hattie rides the Orphan Train from New York to Nebraska where she must adjust to a strange new life with a farmer and his wife, who is despondent over the loss of her two children.SOS Titanic  The deck was tilting. Even the passengers who hadn't believed the Titanic could sink were frantic with fear. Many of them refused to climb into the lifeboats. Now the lifeboats are gone. The doomed passengers rushed this way and that, looking for safety where there was none ...The Boston Tea Party  Recounts the events leading up to the colonists' defiant act against the British known as the Boston Tea Party, which ultimately climaxed in the American Revolution.The Boston Tea Party  Recounts the events leading up to the colonists' defiant act against the British known as the Boston Tea Party, which ultimately climaxed in the American Revolution.The Boston Tea Party  The Dragon with a Chocolate Heart 1  A classic fantasy with terrific girl power (and chocolate), perfect for fans of Shannon Hale and Jessica Day George.Aventurine is a brave young dragon ready to explore the world outside of her family's mountain cave . . . if only they'd let her leave it. Her family thinks she's too young to fly on her own, but she's determined to prove them wrong by capturing the most dangerous prey of all: a human. But when that human tricks her into drinking enchanted hot chocolate, she's transformed into a puny human without any sharp teeth, fire breath, or claws. Still, she's the fiercest creature in these mountains—and now she's found her true passion: chocolate. All she has to do is get to the human city to find herself an apprenticeship (whatever that is) in a chocolate house (which sounds delicious), and she'll be conquering new territory in no time . . . won't she? Praise for Kat, Incorrigible Bank Street Best Books of 2012 A Spring 2011 Kids' Indie Next pick A 2012 ALA/ALSC Notable Children's Book A Top 40 Pick for the Pennsylvania School Librarians Association The Secret Garden  Spoiled, angry Mary Lennox is sent to live with her mysterious uncle after the death of her parents, and new friends help her begin her life again.The Secret Garden  Spoiled, angry Mary Lennox is sent to live with her mysterious uncle after the death of her parents, and new friends help her begin her life again.The Summer of the Swans  "The longest day in the life of a 14-year-old girl—the summer day her loved, mentally retarded brother is lost, the day she discovers compassion is a friend. A compelling story."—Publishers WeeklyNewbery Award Book The Summer of the Swans  "The longest day in the life of a 14-year-old girl—the summer day her loved, mentally retarded brother is lost, the day she discovers compassion is a friend. A compelling story."—Publishers WeeklyNewbery Award Book The Summer of the Swans  "The longest day in the life of a 14-year-old girl—the summer day her loved, mentally retarded brother is lost, the day she discovers compassion is a friend. A compelling story."—Publishers WeeklyNewbery Award Book Knights of the Lunch Table 1: The Dodgeball Chronicles  In this funny new series from Eisner Award nominee Frank Cammuso, the Arthurian legend is reborn—in a funny, average-joe, middle-school boy and his pals.Artie King just wants to ease into life at Camelot Middle School. He’s got new lunch buddies, Percy and Wayne, and his science teacher, Mr. Merlyn, is pretty cool. But then there’s scary Principal Dagger and big bad Joe and The Horde, a bunch of brawny bullies who rule the school. The Very Nearly Honorable League of Pirates 1: Magic Marks the Spot  Pirates! Magic! Treasure! A gargoyle? Caroline Carlson's hilarious tween novel The Very Nearly Honorable League of Pirates #1: Magic Marks the Spot is perfect for fans of Lemony Snicket's Series of Unfortunate Events and Trenton Lee Stewart's Mysterious Benedict Society.Hilary Westfield has always dreamed of being a pirate. She can tread water for thirty-seven minutes. She can tie a knot faster than a fleet of sailors, and she already owns a rather pointy sword. There's only one problem: The Very Nearly Honorable League of Pirates refuses to let any girl join their ranks of scourges and scallywags. But Hilary is not the kind of girl to take no for answer. To escape a life of petticoats and politeness at her stuffy finishing school, Hilary sets out in search of her own seaworthy adventure, where she gets swept up in a madcap quest involving a map without an X, a magical treasure that likely doesn't exist, a talking gargoyle, a crew of misfit scallywags, and the most treacherous—and unexpected—villain on the High Seas. Written with uproarious wit and an inviting storyteller tone, the first book in Caroline Carlson's quirky seafaring series is a piratical tale like no other. Notes from a Liar and Her Dog  Living in a family with two perfect sisters and parents who just don't get her, Ant MacPherson finds it easier to lie. After all, the only one who appreciates her is her dog, Pistachio. But when a concerned teacher sees the truth behind Ant's lies, it seems as though she might be in for a change . . .A Week in the Woods  Collision courseThe fifth-grade Week in the Woods is a beloved tradition of Hardy Elementary, where Mark Chelmsley (the Fourth) is pretty much killing time before his parents send him off to an exclusive prep school. But then Mark realizes the Week might be a chance to prove to Mr. Maxwell that he's not just another of the slacker rich kids the teacher can't stand. But it may be too late for Mark to change Mr. Maxwell's opinion of him. On the first day of the Week, the tension between teacher and student explodes, and in a reckless moment, Mark puts not only himself, but also Mr. Maxwell, in grave danger. Can two such strong adversaries work together to save their lives? No Talking  The fifth-grade girls and the fifth-grade boys at Laketon Elementary don't get along very well. But the real problem is that these kids are loud and disorderly. That's why the principal uses her red plastic bullhorn. A lot.Then one day Dave Packer, a certified loudmouth, bumps into an idea — a big one that makes him try to keep quiet for a whole day. But what does Dave hear during lunch? A girl, Lynsey Burgess, jabbering away. So Dave breaks his silence and lobs an insult. And those words spark a contest: Which team can say the fewest wordsduring two whole days? And it's the boys against the girls. How do the teachers react to the silence? What happens when the principal feels she's losing control? And will Dave and Lynsey plunge the whole school into chaos? This funny and surprising book is about language and thought, about words unspoken, words spoken in anger, and especially about the power of words spoken in kindness...with or without a bullhorn. It's Andrew Clements at his best — thought-provoking, true-to-life, and very entertaining. No Talking  The fifth-grade girls and the fifth-grade boys at Laketon Elementary don't get along very well. But the real problem is that these kids are loud and disorderly. That's why the principal uses her red plastic bullhorn. A lot.Then one day Dave Packer, a certified loudmouth, bumps into an idea — a big one that makes him try to keep quiet for a whole day. But what does Dave hear during lunch? A girl, Lynsey Burgess, jabbering away. So Dave breaks his silence and lobs an insult. And those words spark a contest: Which team can say the fewest wordsduring two whole days? And it's the boys against the girls. How do the teachers react to the silence? What happens when the principal feels she's losing control? And will Dave and Lynsey plunge the whole school into chaos? This funny and surprising book is about language and thought, about words unspoken, words spoken in anger, and especially about the power of words spoken in kindness...with or without a bullhorn. It's Andrew Clements at his best — thought-provoking, true-to-life, and very entertaining. The Janitor's Boy  IT WAS THE PERFECT CRIMEUnfortunately, it also led to the perfect punishment. When Jack Rankin gets busted for defacing a school desk with a huge wad of disgusting, watermelon bubble gum, the principal sentences him to three weeks of after-school gum cleanup for the chief custodian. The problem is, Jack's anger at the chief custodian was the reason for his gum project in the first place. The chief custodian happens to be Jack's dad. But doing time in the school basement after hours reveals some pretty surprising things: about the school, about Jack's father, and about Jack himself. War Comes to Willy Freeman  Willy Freeman's life changes forever when she witnesses her father's death at the hands of the Redcoats and returns home to find that the British have taken her mother as a prisoner to New York City.Willy, disguised as a boy, begins her long search for her mother and luckily finds a haven at the famous Fraunces Tavern. But even with the help of Sam Fraunces and her fellow worker, Horace, Willy knows that to be black, female, and free leaves her open to danger at every turn. What will tomorrow bring? What Jamie Saw  A 1996 Newbery Honor Book follows the survival story of nine-year-old Jamie, his mother, and his baby sister Nin, who leave the abusive Van and move to a small trailer in the woods, where they slowly learn how to trust again. Reprint. AB. NYT. H. K. SLJ. PW.My Daniel  "All I want to find is one dinosaur," Daniel was saying. "And I'll find it right here. Like I do all my fossils." Wandering through the Natural History Museum with her grandchildren, Julia Creath feels the presence of her dead brother, Daniel, she remembers a time when fossil fever hit everyone, old and young — a time when people would kill for those old bones under the ground. Julia becomes the Nebraska farm girl she once was, as she weaves together the story of the great dinosaur rush — an adventurous tale of love and treachery, but most of all the story of her own childhood, and of the older brother she loved more than anything. Daniel had a dream that julia shared — and the she alone would see come true.Quake!  When the deadly Loma Prieta earthquake of 1989 hits, fourteen-year-old Franny witnesses the devastation of her community and is called upon to save the lives of her family and her best friend. Reprint. SLJ. AB.Sammy Keyes 1: Hotel Thief  Readers follow a young, feisty sleuth through her saucy first-person narrative. Sammy is unpopular at school and on the outs with authority.Love That Dog 1  Newbery Medal winner Sharon Creech's Love That Dog, a funny, sweet, original short novel written in free verse, introduces us to an endearingly unassuming, straight-talking boy who discovers the powers and pleasures of poetry. Against his will. After all, "boys don't write poetry. Girls do." What does he say of the famous poem "Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening"? "I think Mr. Robert Frost / has a little / too / much / time / on his / hands." As his teacher, Ms. Stretchberry, introduces the canon to the class, however, he starts to see the light. Poetry is not so bad, it's not just for girls, and it's not even that hard to write. Take William Carlos Williams, for example: "If that is a poem / about the red wheelbarrow / and the white chickens / then any words / can be a poem. / You've just got to / make / short / lines." He becomes more and more discerning as the days go by, and readers' spirits will rise with Jack's as he begins to find his own voice through his own poetry and through that of others. His favorite poem of all is a short, rhythmic one by Walter Dean Myers called "Love That Boy" (included at the end of the book with all the rest of Ms. Stretchberry's assignments). The words completely captivate him, reminding him of the loving way his dad calls him in the morning and of the way he used to call his yellow dog, Sky. Jack's reverence for the poem ultimately leads to meeting the poet himself, an experience he will never forget.Bud, Not Buddy  It’s 1936, in Flint, Michigan, and when 10-year-old Bud decides to hit the road to find his father, nothing can stop him.From the Trade Paperback edition. Bud, Not Buddy  It’s 1936, in Flint, Michigan, and when 10-year-old Bud decides to hit the road to find his father, nothing can stop him.From the Trade Paperback edition. Bud, Not Buddy  It’s 1936, in Flint, Michigan, and when 10-year-old Bud decides to hit the road to find his father, nothing can stop him.From the Trade Paperback edition. Bud, Not Buddy  It’s 1936, in Flint, Michigan, and when 10-year-old Bud decides to hit the road to find his father, nothing can stop him.From the Trade Paperback edition. Bud, Not Buddy  It’s 1936, in Flint, Michigan, and when 10-year-old Bud decides to hit the road to find his father, nothing can stop him.From the Trade Paperback edition. The Watsons Go to Birmingham - 1963  A wonderful middle-grade novel narrated by Kenny, 9, about his middle-class black family, the Weird Watsons of Flint, Michigan. When Kenny's 13-year-old brother, Byron, gets to be too much trouble, they head South to Birmingham to visit Grandma, the one person who can shape him up. And they happen to be in Birmingham when Grandma's church is blown up.From the Hardcover edition. The Watsons Go to Birmingham - 1963  A wonderful middle-grade novel narrated by Kenny, 9, about his middle-class black family, the Weird Watsons of Flint, Michigan. When Kenny's 13-year-old brother, Byron, gets to be too much trouble, they head South to Birmingham to visit Grandma, the one person who can shape him up. And they happen to be in Birmingham when Grandma's church is blown up.From the Hardcover edition. The Watsons Go to Birmingham - 1963  A wonderful middle-grade novel narrated by Kenny, 9, about his middle-class black family, the Weird Watsons of Flint, Michigan. When Kenny's 13-year-old brother, Byron, gets to be too much trouble, they head South to Birmingham to visit Grandma, the one person who can shape him up. And they happen to be in Birmingham when Grandma's church is blown up.From the Hardcover edition. The Last Dragon Chronicles 1: The Fire Within  'David ran a hand through his mop of brown hair. Dragons. It was certainly different from his last set of lodgings, where all you got were spiders and the occasional mouse. "It's perfect," he said.' When David arrives at Wayward Crescent he has no idea what lurks inside the Pennykettle house. Only when he's given his own special dragon does he begin to unlock their mysterious secrets, and to discover the fire within...The Last Dragon Chronicles 2: Icefire  Life isn't exactly normal lodging at the Pennykettles - not when you're surrounded by hundreds of clay pottery dragons. Fate seems to be dictating an unusual course for David when his university tutor sets him a writing project on the existence - or not - of dragons. The tantalizing prize - a fully-funded research trip to the Arctic - seems just within his grasp. David starts to research the subject and soon discovers a connection between dragons and the Arctic just as it begins to snow. Is it only a coincidence? Or could deeper forces be at work? As David starts to uncover more about the dragons, he finds himself drawn down a path from which there is no going back to a time when dragons really did exist, and their secrets were guarded by the polar bears of the Arctic. If David is going to have any chance of winning the research trip, he has to open his mind to the legend of dragons and the mysterious secret of Icefire.The Last Dragon Chronicles 3: Fire Star  Another fantastic adventure in NY TIMES bestselling author Chris d'Lacey's dragon saga!In the thrilling third book in Chris d'Lacey's popular series, David Rain is faced with a perilous task. ICEFIRE's evil sibyl Gwilanna is back, this time determined to resurrect the dragon Gawain on the ice cap of the Tooth of Ragnar. Can David and his friends stop her before it's too late? Boy: Tales of Childhood  Where did Roald Dahl get all of his wonderful ideas for stories? From his own life, of course! As full of excitement and the unexpected as his world-famous, bestselling books, Roald Dahl?s tales of his own childhood are completely fascinating and fiendishly funny.Boy: Tales of Childhood  Where did Roald Dahl get all of his wonderful ideas for stories? From his own life, of course! As full of excitement and the unexpected as his world-famous, bestselling books, Roald Dahl?s tales of his own childhood are completely fascinating and fiendishly funny.Boy: Tales of Childhood  Where did Roald Dahl get all of his wonderful ideas for stories? From his own life, of course! As full of excitement and the unexpected as his world-famous, bestselling books, Roald Dahl?s tales of his own childhood are completely fascinating and fiendishly funny.Danny the Champion of the World  Can Danny and his father outsmart the villainous Mr. Hazell?Danny has a life any boy would love—his home is a gypsy caravan, he's the youngest master car mechanic around, and his best friend is his dad, who never runs out of wonderful stories to tell. But one night Danny discovers a shocking secret that his father has kept hidden for years. Soon Danny finds himself the mastermind behind the most incredible plot ever attempted against nasty Victor Hazell, a wealthy landowner with a bad attitude. Can they pull it off? If so, Danny will truly be the champion of the world. Esio Trot  Mr. Hoppy is in love with his neighbor, Mrs. Silver, but she is in love with her pet tortoise. Mr. Hoppy comes up with an idea to get Mrs. Silver's attention. If his plan works, Mrs. Silver will certainly fall in love with him. After all, everyone knows the way to a woman's heart is through her tortoise.Going Solo  Going Solo is the action-packed tale of Roald Dahl's exploits as a World War II pilot. Learn all about his encounters with the enemy, his worldwide travels, the life-threatening injuries he sustained in a plane accident, and the rest of his sometimes bizarre, often unnerving, and always colorful adventures.The BFG  Celebrating 30 years of a beloved Roald Dahl classic!For thirty years, readers have been enchanted by this story of young Sophie and the benevolent Big Friendly Giant—inspired by Roald Dahl's own granddaughter. Come celebrate and join them as they take on the Bonecruncher, the Bloodbottler, and other monsters to help make the world a better place for children everywhere! The BFG  Celebrating 30 years of a beloved Roald Dahl classic!For thirty years, readers have been enchanted by this story of young Sophie and the benevolent Big Friendly Giant—inspired by Roald Dahl's own granddaughter. Come celebrate and join them as they take on the Bonecruncher, the Bloodbottler, and other monsters to help make the world a better place for children everywhere! The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar and Six More  Meet the boy who can talk to animals, the man who can see with his eyes closed, and find out about the treasure buried deep underground on Thistley Green. Here are seven superb stories, full of Roald Dahl's usual magic, mystery, and suspense.Under the Same Sky  A teenager discovers racism and romance on his father?s farmFor his fourteenth birthday, Joe Pedersen wants a motorbike that costs nearly a thousand dollars. But his mom says the usual birthday gift is fifty dollars, and his dad wants Joe to earn the rest of the money himself and ?find out what a real day?s work feels like.? Angry that his father doesn?t think he?s up to the job, Joe joins the Mexican laborers who come to his father?s farm each summer. Manuel, the crew boss, is only sixteen, yet highly regarded by the other workers and the Pedersen family. Joe?s resentment grows when his father treats Manuel as an equal. Compared with Manuel, Joe knows nothing about planting and hoeing cabbage and picking strawberries. But he toughs out the long, grueling days in the hot sun, determined not only to make money but to gain the respect of his stern, hardworking father. Joe soon learns about the problems and fears the Mexicans live with every day, and, before long, thanks to Manuel, his beautiful cousin Luisa, and the rest of the crew, Joe comes to see the world in a whole different way. In her sensitive new novel, Cynthia DeFelice explores our dependency on migrant workers and simultaneous reluctance to let these people into our country and into our lives. When Will This Cruel War Be Over?: The Civil War Diary of Emma Simpson, Gordonsville, Virginia, 1864  The peaceful Southern life that Emma Simpson and her family have always known is shattered when the Civil War begins. Emma's father and brother are called to battle, but her family believes the Confederacy will quickly win the War between the States. However, as the months drag on, the harsh realities of war set in: Supplies, medicine, food, firewood, and ink for Emma to use in her diary become increasingly scarce as troops from the North march deeper into the South. Finally, even Emma's home is commandeered by the Yankees. Though she faces many hardships and the horrors of death, Emma never loses hope, and, with a brave spirit, she comes to realize what things in life are most important.Flora and Ulysses: The Illuminated Adventures  Holy unanticipated occurrences! A cynic meets an unlikely superhero in a genre-breaking new novel by master storyteller Kate DiCamillo.It begins, as the best superhero stories do, with a tragic accident that has unexpected consequences. The squirrel never saw the vacuum cleaner coming, but self-described cynic Flora Belle Buckman, who has read every issue of the comic book Terrible Things Can Happen to You!, is the just the right person to step in and save him. What neither can predict is that Ulysses (the squirrel) has been born anew, with powers of strength, flight, and misspelled poetry — and that Flora will be changed too, as she discovers the possibility of hope and the promise of a capacious heart. From #1 New York Times best-selling author Kate DiCamillo comes a laugh-out-loud story filled with eccentric, endearing characters and featuring an exciting new format — a novel interspersed with comic-style graphic sequences and full-page illustrations, all rendered in black-and-white by up-and-coming artist K. G. Campbell. The Tale of Despereaux: Being the Story of a Mouse, a Princess, Some Soup, and a Spool of Thread  Welcome to the story of Despereaux Tilling, a mouse who is in love with music, stories, and a princess named Pea. It is also the story of a rat called Roscuro, who lives in the darkness and covets a world filled with light. And it is the story of Miggery Sow, a slow-witted serving girl who harbors a simple, impossible wish. These three characters are about to embark on a journey that will lead them down into a horrible dungeon, up into a glittering castle, and, ultimately, into each other s lives. What happens then? Author: Kate DicamilloReading Level: Ages 9-12Format: 272 pages, Paperback Publisher: Candlewick (April 11, 2006) ISBN: 978-0763625290The Tale of Despereaux: Being the Story of a Mouse, a Princess, Some Soup, and a Spool of Thread  Welcome to the story of Despereaux Tilling, a mouse who is in love with music, stories, and a princess named Pea. It is also the story of a rat called Roscuro, who lives in the darkness and covets a world filled with light. And it is the story of Miggery Sow, a slow-witted serving girl who harbors a simple, impossible wish. These three characters are about to embark on a journey that will lead them down into a horrible dungeon, up into a glittering castle, and, ultimately, into each other s lives. What happens then? Author: Kate DicamilloReading Level: Ages 9-12Format: 272 pages, Paperback Publisher: Candlewick (April 11, 2006) ISBN: 978-0763625290The Tiger Rising  A National Book Award finalist by Newbery Medalist Kate DiCamillo.Walking through the misty Florida woods one morning, twelve-year-old Rob Horton is stunned to encounter a tiger—a real-life, very large tiger—pacing back and forth in a cage. What’s more, on the same extraordinary day, he meets Sistine Bailey, a girl who shows her feelings as readily as Rob hides his. As they learn to trust each other, and ultimately, to be friends, Rob and Sistine prove that some things—like memories, and heartache, and tigers—can’t be locked up forever. Featuring a cover illustration by Stephen Walton. A Christmas Carol  In this unabridged version of the original 1843 edition, the classic tale is illustrated with full-color paintings and black-and-white drawings that brilliantly recapture an era and bring Dickens's characters vividly to life. "Michael Foreman's illustrations have brought new life and charm to a story we all know." — Parents MagazineGuests  A story about Thanksgiving from the point of view of the hosts: the Native Americans who were kind enough to share what they had with the Pilgrims. Moss, a young boy who is unhappy with the white strangers' intrusion, sets out on a journey of self-discovery, which will change his life forever.Phineas L. MacGuire … Erupts!  Here's what you need to know about Phineas L. MacGuire, boy-scientist extraordinaire, aka Mac:1. He's allergic to purple, telephone calls, and girls, and can prove it. 2. He's probably the world's expert on mold, including which has the highest stink potential. 3. He does not have a best friend. He does, however, have an un-best friend, who he does not — repeat, not — want to upgrade to best friend status. But disaster strikes when his teacher pairs Mac and his un-best friend together for the upcoming science fair. Worse, this un-best friend wants the project to be on dinosaurs, which is so third grade. Worse still, it seems as though everyone else in his class finds the un-best friend as unlikeable as Mac does. But, being a boy-scientist, once Mac notices this, he just might have to do some investigating.... Phineas L. MacGuire … Erupts!  Here's what you need to know about Phineas L. MacGuire, boy-scientist extraordinaire, aka Mac:1. He's allergic to purple, telephone calls, and girls, and can prove it. 2. He's probably the world's expert on mold, including which has the highest stink potential. 3. He does not have a best friend. He does, however, have an un-best friend, who he does not — repeat, not — want to upgrade to best friend status. But disaster strikes when his teacher pairs Mac and his un-best friend together for the upcoming science fair. Worse, this un-best friend wants the project to be on dinosaurs, which is so third grade. Worse still, it seems as though everyone else in his class finds the un-best friend as unlikeable as Mac does. But, being a boy-scientist, once Mac notices this, he just might have to do some investigating.... Sammy Keyes 4: Runaway Elf  And this new adventure is Wendelin Van Draanen's most complex and compelling yet! It's Christmastime in Sammy's hometown of Santa Martina, but some people are being very, very naughty. Pranksters dressed as wise men sabotage the Christmas Parade. In the ensuing chaos, some thugs dognap a prize Pomeranian. Then the Pom's owner blackmails Sammy into finding the dog so she won't have to pay the ransom. Sammy doesn't have to check her list twice to know that these people belong in the naughty column!But in the course of her search for the doggone dog, Sammy also comes across some characters who are harder to figure: a runaway elf, an embittered old biddy, a puffed-up policeman, and a sneaky Secret Santa. Still, someone's got that dog and whoever it is had better watch out—'cause Sammy Keyes is nosing around...and she's willing to be pretty naughty herself to make sure the bad guys pay. From the Hardcover edition. The City of Ember  The city of Ember was built as a last refuge for the human race. Two hundred years later, the great lamps that light the city are beginning to flicker. When Lina finds part of an ancient message, she’s sure it holds a secret that will save the city. She and her friend Doon must decipher the message before the lights go out on Ember forever! This stunning debut novel offers refreshingly clear writing and fascinating, original characters.Dragons in a Bag  The Birchbark House  "[In this] story of a young Ojibwa girl, Omakayas, living on an island in Lake Superior around 1847, Louise Erdrich is reversing the narrative perspective used in most children's stories about nineteenth-century Native Americans. Instead of looking out at 'them' as dangers or curiosities, Erdrich, drawing on her family's history, wants to tell about 'us', from the inside. The Birchbark House establishes its own ground, in the vicinity of Laura Ingalls Wilder's 'Little House' books." —The New York Times Book ReviewGinger Pye  Eleanor Estes’s Ginger Pye, a 1952 Newbery Medal winner, is a warm, witty mystery set in a small-town American community. Ginger Pye, the star of the show, is the very smart dog that ten-year-old Jerry Pye buys for a hard-earned dollar. The most famous pup in Cranbury (a town between Boston and New York), Ginger knows many tricks, is as loyal as he is smart, and steals the hearts of everyone he meets . . . until someone steals him! Will Jerry and his sister Rachel ever be able to find their beloved terrier? The author’s own black-and-white sketches leave just enough to the imagination. Don’t miss the sequel, Pinky Pye, also available in paperback!Power of Un  This fascinating, approachable, and critically-acclaimed sci-fi/fantasy story is blessed with an intelligent and likeable character. The Power of Un was the winnter of the 2000 Bram Stoker Award.Until a week ago, Gib Finney was just a regular guy, shooting spitballs and messing up his science experiments. But when he finds a mysterious device called the Unner, everything changes. Gib discovers that the Unner has the power to erase any and all mistakes. At first, Gib thinks this is better than winning the lottery: he'll never flunk another test or strike out again! But after a terrible accident, Gib must decide which events of the previous day he must undo to stop the disaster from happening the second and third time around. He soon learns that some things are more worthy of "unning" than others, and some things can't be changed at all. Ultimately, Gib learns the value of life and family in this touching and straight-forward fantasy Power of Un  This fascinating, approachable, and critically-acclaimed sci-fi/fantasy story is blessed with an intelligent and likeable character. The Power of Un was the winnter of the 2000 Bram Stoker Award.Until a week ago, Gib Finney was just a regular guy, shooting spitballs and messing up his science experiments. But when he finds a mysterious device called the Unner, everything changes. Gib discovers that the Unner has the power to erase any and all mistakes. At first, Gib thinks this is better than winning the lottery: he'll never flunk another test or strike out again! But after a terrible accident, Gib must decide which events of the previous day he must undo to stop the disaster from happening the second and third time around. He soon learns that some things are more worthy of "unning" than others, and some things can't be changed at all. Ultimately, Gib learns the value of life and family in this touching and straight-forward fantasy The Greek Gods  An excellent introduction to mythology, this book includes a glossary, afterword, and bibliography.The Black Stallion 1  First published in 1941, Walter Farley's best-selling novel for young readers is the triumphant tale of a boy and a wild horse. From Alec Ramsay and the Black's first meeting on an ill-fated ship to their adventures on a desert island and their eventual rescue, this beloved story will hold the rapt attention of readers new and old.The Black Stallion 2: The Black Stallion Returns  In this, the second book in the series, the heart-stopping adventures of the Black Stallion continue as Alec discovers that two men are after the Black. One claims to be the Black’s rightful owner and one is trying to kill the beautiful steed. An Arab chieftain proves his ownership of the Black and takes him away, but Alec is determined to find his horse again. Following the pair to Arabia, Alec encounters great evil and intrigue, as only a horse as spectacular as the Black could inspire.The Black Stallion 4: The Island Stallion  When Steve Duncan is asked to go on an archeological search on a remote Caribbean island, he never imagines the stallion he will find there. But the giant horse is unapproachable, showing nothing but fear and fury towards people. When the stallion gets caught in quicksand, can Steve get close enough to save the wild horse?Harriet the Spy  Harriet M. Welsch is a spy. In her notebook, she writes down everything she knows about everyone, even her classmates and her best friends. Then Harriet loses track of her notebook, and it ends up in the wrong hands. Before she can stop them, her friends have read the always truthful, sometimes awful things she’s written about each of them. Will Harriet find a way to put her life and her friendships back together?Shh! We're Writing the Constitution  This factual gem that?s written with Jean Fritz?s humorous touch chronicles the hot summer of 1787 where fifty-five delegates from thirteen states huddled together in the strictest secrecy in Philadelphia to draw up the constitution of the United States!Shh! We're Writing the Constitution  This factual gem that?s written with Jean Fritz?s humorous touch chronicles the hot summer of 1787 where fifty-five delegates from thirteen states huddled together in the strictest secrecy in Philadelphia to draw up the constitution of the United States!Shh! We're Writing the Constitution  This factual gem that?s written with Jean Fritz?s humorous touch chronicles the hot summer of 1787 where fifty-five delegates from thirteen states huddled together in the strictest secrecy in Philadelphia to draw up the constitution of the United States!Shh! We're Writing the Constitution  Shh! We're Writing the Constitution  The Double Life of Pocahontas  Pocahontas loves her life as a favored daughter of a powerful Indian chief; Englishmen, however, threaten the existence of all she holds dear, while one man, John Smith, holds a special charm for her that she cannot resist. Soon she is torn between two worlds.The Double Life of Pocahontas  Pocahontas loves her life as a favored daughter of a powerful Indian chief; Englishmen, however, threaten the existence of all she holds dear, while one man, John Smith, holds a special charm for her that she cannot resist. Soon she is torn between two worlds.The Double Life of Pocahontas  Joey Pigza 1: Joey Pigza Swallowed the Key  Joey Pigza can't sit still. He can't pay attention, he can't follow the rules, and he can't help it — especially when his meds aren't working. Joey's had problems ever since he was born, problems just like his dad and grandma have. And whether he's wreaking havoc on a class trip or swallowing his house key, Joey's problems are getting worse. In fact, his behavior is so off the wall that his teachers are threatening to send him to the special-ed center downtown.Joey knows he's really a good kid, but no matter how hard he tries to do the right thing, something always seems to go wrong. Will he ever get anything right? Joey Pigza 1: Joey Pigza Swallowed the Key  Joey Pigza can't sit still. He can't pay attention, he can't follow the rules, and he can't help it — especially when his meds aren't working. Joey's had problems ever since he was born, problems just like his dad and grandma have. And whether he's wreaking havoc on a class trip or swallowing his house key, Joey's problems are getting worse. In fact, his behavior is so off the wall that his teachers are threatening to send him to the special-ed center downtown.Joey knows he's really a good kid, but no matter how hard he tries to do the right thing, something always seems to go wrong. Will he ever get anything right? Joey Pigza 2: Joey Pigza Loses Control  "He was wired. No dought about it...Now I knowwhat Mom meant when she said he was like me, only bigger."Joey Pigza really wants his six-week visit with his dad to count, to show him he's not as wired as he used to be, to show his dad how much he loves him. But Carter Pigza's not an easy guy to love. He's eager to make it up to Joey for past wrongs and to show him how to be a winner, to take control of his life. With his coaching, Joey's even learned how to pitch a baseball, and he's good at it. The trouble is, Joey's dad thinks taking control means giving up the things that "keep Joey safe. And if he wants to please his dad, he's going to have to play by his rules, even when the rules don't make sense. Joey Pigza 3: What Would Joey Do?  Joey's dad just roared into town on a motorcycle, his mom is chasing her ex-husband away with a broomstick, and his grandma's camped out on the couch behind a plastic shower curtain. What's more, Joey's chihuahua has been dognapped, and his mom insists that he be homeschooled with a mean blind girl and her super-religious mother. Welcome to Joey's world.With his new self-assumed role as "Mr. Helpful," Joey's on a mission to make everything and everyone better. Can Joey accomplish all this or will his wild, wired behavior spin him out of control all over again? Everglades  A lyrical creation tale of the Florida Everglades with stunning landscapes by Wendell Minor.Supports the Common Core State Standards Frightful 1: My Side of the Mountain  Terribly unhappy in his family's crowded New York City apartment, Sam Gribley runs away to the solitude-and danger-of the mountains, where he finds a side of himself he never knew.Frightful 1: My Side of the Mountain  Terribly unhappy in his family's crowded New York City apartment, Sam Gribley runs away to the solitude-and danger-of the mountains, where he finds a side of himself he never knew.Frightful 1: My Side of the Mountain  Terribly unhappy in his family's crowded New York City apartment, Sam Gribley runs away to the solitude-and danger-of the mountains, where he finds a side of himself he never knew.Frightful 3: Frightful's Mountain  It is illegal to harbor an endangered bird, so when Frightful returns to Sam, the boy who raised her, he has to chase her away. Frightful doesn’t know how to live alone in the wild, and she can’t feed herself, mate, brood chicks, or migrate. She struggles to survive and gradually learns to enjoy her new freedom. But Frightful feels a bond with Sam that can never be broken, and more than anything else, she wants to return to him.“Fans of My Side of the Mountain will be glad to revisit Sam Gribley in this sequel.” —The Horn Book “Frightful’s Mountain is a novel that will change the way you look at the world.” —The New York Times Book Review Julie 1: Julie of the Wolves  Lost on the TundraTo her small Eskimo village, she is known as Miyax; to her friend in San Francisco, she is Julie. When the village is no longer safe for her, Miyax runs away. But she soon finds herself lost in the Alaskan wilderness, without food, without even a compass to guide her. Slowly she is accepted by a pack of Arctic wolves, Mid she grows to love them as though they were family. With their help, and drawing on her father's teachings, Miyax struggles day by clay to survive. But the time comes when she must leave the wilderness and choose between the old ways an(] the new. Which will she choose? For she is Miyax of the Eskimos—but Julie of the Wolves. Faced with the prospect of a disagreeable arranged marriage or a journey acoss the barren Alaskan tundra, 13-year-old Miyax chooses the tundra. She finds herself caught between the traditional Eskimo ways and the modern ways of the whites. Miyax, or Julie as her pen pal Amy calls her, sets out alone to visit Amy in San Francisco, a world far away from Eskimo culture and the frozen land of Alaska. During her long and arduous journey, Miyax comes to appreciate the value of her Eskimo heritage, learns about herself, and wins the friednship of a pack of wolves. After learning the language of the wolves and slowly earning their trust, Julie becomes a member of the pack. Since its first publication, Julie of The Wolves,winner of thr 1973 Newbery Medal, has found its way into the hearts of millions of readers. The Talking Earth  "Billie Wind lives with her Seminole tribe. She follows their customs, but the dangers of pollution and nuclear war she's learned about in school seem much more real to her. How can she believe the Seminole legends about talking animals and earth spirits? She wants answers, not legends."You are a doubter,"say the men of the Seminole Council and so Billie goes out into the Everglades alone, to stay until she can believe. In the wilderness, she discovers that she must listen to the land and animals in order to survive. With an otter, a panther cub, and a turtle as companions and guides, she begins to understand that the world of her people can give her the answers she seeks. Tuesdays at the Castle  Tuesdays at Castle Glower are Princess Celie's favorite days. That's because on Tuesdays the castle adds a new room, a turret, or sometimes even an entire wing. No one ever knows what the castle will do next, and no one-other than Celie, that is-takes the time to map out the new additions. But when King and Queen Glower are ambushed and their fate is unknown, it's up to Celie, with her secret knowledge of the castle's never-ending twists and turns, to protect their home and save their kingdom. This delightful book from a fan- and bookseller-favorite kicks off a brand-new series sure to become a modern classic.A Dolphin Named Bob  When Bob the dolphin was born, he was small and sickly, with an unusual comet-shaped mark on his drooping dorsal fin. No one at the aquarium expected him to survive. But like his mother, Aster, Bob was ornery, and he stubbornly struggled to overcome his health problems. And soon, he loved to leap high into the air and perform tricks.Then one day, Bob taught himself a new trick-and jumped into more trouble than any other dolphin in the history of the aquarium. With a dolphin like Bob around, you never know what will happen! Eleven  Sam must solve the mystery of who he really is.Sam is almost 11 when he discovers a locked box in the attic above his grandfather Mack’s room, and a piece of paper that says he was kidnapped. There are lots of other words, but Sam has always had trouble reading. He’s desperate to find out who he is, and if his beloved Mack is really his grandfather. At night he’s haunted by dreams of a big castle and a terrifying escape on a boat. Who can he trust to help him read the documents that could unravel the mystery? Then he and the new girl, Caroline, are paired up to work on a school project, building a castle in Mack’s woodworking shop. Caroline loves to read, and she can help. But she’s moving soon, and the two must hurry to discover the truth about Sam. ★ “This psychological mystery explores a child’s deepest genetic need for belonging. An engrossing examination of a profound theme in the deft hands of a discerning author.”—Kirkus Reviews, Starred ★ “Exquisitely rendered story of self-discovery. . . . Given the author’s expertise at developing sympathetic characters and creating a suspenseful plot, readers will find the complexity of Sam’ vulnerabilities to be as intriguing as the unfolding enigma of his past.”—Publishers Weekly, Starred The Thing About Georgie  The thing about poodles is that Georgie Bishop hates to walk them.The thing about Jeanie the Meanie is that she would rather write on her shoe than help Georgie with their Abraham Lincoln project. The thing about Georgie's mom is that she's having a baby — a baby who will probably be taller than Georgie very, very soon. The thing about Georgie...well, what is the thing about Georgie? A Strong Right Arm: The Story of Mamie "Peanut" Johnson  Motivated by her love for the game and inspired by the legendary Jackie Robinson, Mamie Johnson is determined to be a professional baseball pitcher. But in a sport that's determined by white men, there is no place for a black woman. Mamie doesn't give up-from the time she insists on trying out for the all-male, all-white Police Athletic League until she realizes her dream and becomes one of three women to play in the Negro Leagues. Mamie Johnson's life shows that with courage and perseverance one can overcome even the greatest challenges.Across the Wide and Lonesome Prairie: The Oregon Trail Diary of Hattie Campbell, 1847  Thirteen-year-old Hattie Campbell records the details of her family's harrowing migration to Oregon in a covered wagon and describes the many challenges, both joyful and tragic, that mark the journey.The Stowaway: A Tale of California Pirates  Kristiana Gregory's swashbuckling tale of a young boy's encounter with a true pirate is being repackaged with a new cover. This high seas adventure is full of historic facts and nefarious characters.The year is 1818, and the coastal village of Monterey, California, is a peaceful home for 11-year-old Carlito and his family ... until pirate ships appear on the horizon. Carlito and his friends are excited at first. They can't wait to see what real pirates look like. But once the ships drop anchor, they attack. And on one terrible night, Carlito witnesses a murder - his father's. When Carlito climbs on the pirate ship in search of revenge, the ship sets sail and he becomes a stowaway. Can Carlito bring his father's murderer to justice? Or will he suffer the same horrendous fate? The Kid Who Ran for President  FOR USE IN SCHOOLS AND LIBRARIES ONLY. With his friend as campaign manager and his former babysitter as running mate, twelve-year-old Judson Moon sets out to become president of the United States.The House on the Gulf  NOTHING IS AS IT SEEMS.When Britt's older brother, Bran, lands a summer job house-sitting in Florida, it seems like a great opportunity. Britt's family has just recently moved to Florida, and could use the extra money while her mom finishes college. There's only one problem: Britt starts to suspect her family isn't supposed to be there. Britt starts poking around, and makes a startling discovery — the owners of the house aren't who Bran says they are. So whose house are they living in, and why has Bran brought them there? The House on the Gulf  NOTHING IS AS IT SEEMS.When Britt's older brother, Bran, lands a summer job house-sitting in Florida, it seems like a great opportunity. Britt's family has just recently moved to Florida, and could use the extra money while her mom finishes college. There's only one problem: Britt starts to suspect her family isn't supposed to be there. Britt starts poking around, and makes a startling discovery — the owners of the house aren't who Bran says they are. So whose house are they living in, and why has Bran brought them there? A Freshwater Pond  Describes the different kinds of plant and animal life that can be found in freshwater ponds.Jackie's Wild Seattle  Heart-stopping adventure on thewild side of Seattle! How do you rescue a coyote trapped in the elevator of a downtown office building? How do you save an injured seal at the bottom of a cliff with the tide coming in? Fourteen-year-old Shannon and her younger brother, Cody, are about to find out as they spend a summer of breathless, sometimes reckless, often hilarious adventure visiting their uncle Neal at a wildlife center called Jackie's Wild Seattle. When Uncle Neal is injured, it's up to Shannon, Cody, and Sage, the rescue dog, to keep the circle of healing unbroken. The Hermux Tantamoq Adventures 2: The Sands of Time  Our favorite mouse and watchmaker, Hermux Tantamoq, is up to his ears in trouble again. All of Pinchester is in an uproar over his friend Mirrin Stentrill's visionary new paintings-monumental portraits of CATS! The Pinchester Museum announces Mirrin's exhibition, and Mayor Pinkwiggin immediately vows to shut it down. After all, cats are not a popular topic in a city of rodents-and everyone knows they never really existed. While militant mice organize to stop the show, most of Pinchester's stylish set vies for invitations to the gala opening.Then a mysterious old chipmunk appears in Hermux's shop with what he claims to be a map to the royal library of a prehistoric kingdom of cats. Before long Hermux is hot on a trail of treachery and deceit that leads all the way from Pinchester to an ancient tomb that lies buried in . . . The Sands of Time! "A gripping story full of emotion and original humor. . . . Should firmly establish Hoeye as a break-out writer, one whose work can be favorably compared with J. K. Rowling and Brian Jacques." (Philadelphia Inquirer) Warriors II - The New Prophecy 6: Sunset  As shadows of the past continue to haunt the forest, Brambleclaw is haunted by a dark figure on a dangerous quest for revenge, and must struggle to remain true to his Clan. A sinister path is unfolding and the time is coming for certain warriors to make the choices that will determine their destiny . . . and the destiny of all the Clans.Resistance 1  Fighting on a secret front of World War IIPaul and Marie’s bucolic French country town is almost untouched by the ravages of WWII, but the siblings still live in the shadow of war. Their father is a Prisoner of War, kept hostage by the Germans. When their friend Henri’s parents disappear and Henri goes into hiding because of his Jewish ancestry, Paul and Marie realize they must take a stand. But how can they convince the French Resistance that even children can help in their fight against injustice? Resistance is the first voulme of a triology written by acclaimed teen author Carla Jablonski and illustrated by Leland Purvis. Emmy and the Incredible Shrinking Rat  Emmy Addison was perfectly happy as the daughter of bookstore owners—and then her parents inherited a lot of money and she suddenly became invisible. She can't understand why her formerly attentive and loving mother and father keep taking off for faraway places and leaving her in the hands of an incredibly controlling nanny named Miss Barmy. And no one at school seems to know she exists. Then, she is bitten by the classroom rat and discovers that she can understand every word he says, as can Joe, one of the cool kids in her class who was also bitten. At this point, events start to unfold and a fast-paced adventure begins. To Joe's chagrin, he discovers that a second bite makes a person shrink to the size of an action figure and Emmy discovers that Miss Barmy has been mixing animal essences together to control the Addisons' lives. With the aid of new animal friends, Emmy embarks upon a perilous path to undo the evil nanny's sinister plans. A mystery is cleverly woven into this fun and, at times, hilarious caper, and children are likely to find themselves laughing out loud during some parts. A medley of endearing characters adds to an already delightful read.A Colonial Town: Williamsburg  Bobbie Kalman's acclaimed Historic Communities Series provides a close-up view of how people lived more than two hundred years ago. Colorful photos, many taken by Bobbie Kalman herself at restored historic villages across the country, help support the fascinating information. Children will have fun learning about:— early homes and the settler community — what people wore and the crafts they made — how settlers made their living — how they spent their leisure time — the values, customs, and traditions of the early settlers A Colonial Town: Williamsburg brings 18th century Williamsburg, Virginia to life for young readers. At a time when Virginia was a colony of England, children will witness its founding and restoration, travel down the cobblestone streets, and guess which shop signs represent which shopkeeper. Buildings explored include: — the Governor's Palace — the church — the school — the Public Gaol — the apothecary — the post mill A Colonial Town: Williamsburg  Bobbie Kalman's acclaimed Historic Communities Series provides a close-up view of how people lived more than two hundred years ago. Colorful photos, many taken by Bobbie Kalman herself at restored historic villages across the country, help support the fascinating information. Children will have fun learning about:— early homes and the settler community — what people wore and the crafts they made — how settlers made their living — how they spent their leisure time — the values, customs, and traditions of the early settlers A Colonial Town: Williamsburg brings 18th century Williamsburg, Virginia to life for young readers. At a time when Virginia was a colony of England, children will witness its founding and restoration, travel down the cobblestone streets, and guess which shop signs represent which shopkeeper. Buildings explored include: — the Governor's Palace — the church — the school — the Public Gaol — the apothecary — the post mill A Colonial Town: Williamsburg  Bobbie Kalman's acclaimed Historic Communities Series provides a close-up view of how people lived more than two hundred years ago. Colorful photos, many taken by Bobbie Kalman herself at restored historic villages across the country, help support the fascinating information. Children will have fun learning about:— early homes and the settler community — what people wore and the crafts they made — how settlers made their living — how they spent their leisure time — the values, customs, and traditions of the early settlers A Colonial Town: Williamsburg brings 18th century Williamsburg, Virginia to life for young readers. At a time when Virginia was a colony of England, children will witness its founding and restoration, travel down the cobblestone streets, and guess which shop signs represent which shopkeeper. Buildings explored include: — the Governor's Palace — the church — the school — the Public Gaol — the apothecary — the post mill A Colonial Town: Williamsburg  Bobbie Kalman's acclaimed Historic Communities Series provides a close-up view of how people lived more than two hundred years ago. Colorful photos, many taken by Bobbie Kalman herself at restored historic villages across the country, help support the fascinating information. Children will have fun learning about:— early homes and the settler community — what people wore and the crafts they made — how settlers made their living — how they spent their leisure time — the values, customs, and traditions of the early settlers A Colonial Town: Williamsburg brings 18th century Williamsburg, Virginia to life for young readers. At a time when Virginia was a colony of England, children will witness its founding and restoration, travel down the cobblestone streets, and guess which shop signs represent which shopkeeper. Buildings explored include: — the Governor's Palace — the church — the school — the Public Gaol — the apothecary — the post mill Colonial Crafts  Bobbie Kalman's acclaimed Historic Communities Series provides a close-up view of how people lived more than two hundred years ago. Colorful photos, many taken by Bobbie Kalman herself at restored historic villages across the country, help support the fascinating information. Children will have fun learning about:— early homes and the settler community — what people wore and the crafts they made — how settlers made their living — how they spent their leisure time — the values, customs, and traditions of the early settlers Colonial Crafts introduces young readers to the craftspeople who created useful works of art by hand, many of which have lasted more than two hundred years. Children will find out how the artisans learned their trades through many years of apprenticeship, as their masters did before them. Visit the workshops of: — the wheelwright — the cooper — the founder — the shoemaker — the milliner — the gunsmith Nancy Drew 1: The Secret of the Old Clock  Nancy Drew's keen mind is tested when she searches for a missing will.The Stranger Next Door  Two boys, one with a deadly secret, become neighbors. Shortly after Rocky moves in, trouble comes to the development. Street signs are cut down, and arson fires are set. While Rocky fears that the destruction is aimed at his family, Alex wonders if Rocky is to blame.Alex's cat, Pete, who understands English perfectly but cannot speak, adds humor to this suspense-filled story about how important friends, both human and feline, can be. This thrilling novel with its surprising plot twists and a delightful cat hero is sure to please Peg Kehret's devoted fans. The Stranger Next Door  Two boys, one with a deadly secret, become neighbors. Shortly after Rocky moves in, trouble comes to the development. Street signs are cut down, and arson fires are set. While Rocky fears that the destruction is aimed at his family, Alex wonders if Rocky is to blame.Alex's cat, Pete, who understands English perfectly but cannot speak, adds humor to this suspense-filled story about how important friends, both human and feline, can be. This thrilling novel with its surprising plot twists and a delightful cat hero is sure to please Peg Kehret's devoted fans. When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit  Anna is not sure who Hitler is, but she sees his face on posters all over Berlin. Then one morning, Anna and her brother awake to find her father gone! Her mother explains that their father has had to leave and soon they will secretly join him. Anna just doesn?t understand. Why do their parents keep insisting that Germany is no longer safe for Jews like them? Because of Hitler, Anna must leave everything behind. Based on the gripping real-life story of the author, this poignant backlist staple gets a brandnew look for a new generation of readers just in time for Holocaust Remembrance Month.Children of the Lamp 1: The Akhenaten Adventure  From acclaimed thriller writer Philip Kerr comes an exceptional, imaginative adventure trilogy about a twin boy and girl with magical powers.Meet John and Philippa Gaunt, twelve-year-old twins who one day discover themselves to be descended from a long line of djinn. All of a sudden, they have the power to grant wishes, travel to extraordinary places (and not necessarily on public transportation), and make people and objects disappear. Luckily (and luck does have something to do with it), the twins are introduced to their eccentric djinn-Uncle Nimrod, who will teach them how to harness their newly found power. And not a moment too soon! The Forgotten Door  FOR USE IN SCHOOLS AND LIBRARIES ONLY. A boy able to talk to animals and read people's minds finds himself in danger after falling through a door to the strange planet Earth.Diary of a Wimpy Kid 4: Dog Days  It’s summer vacation, the weather’s great, and all the kids are having fun outside. So where’s Greg Heffley? Inside his house, playing video games with the shades drawn.Greg, a self-confessed “indoor person,” is living out his ultimate summer fantasy: no responsibilities and no rules. But Greg’s mom has a different vision for an ideal summer . . . one packed with outdoor activities and “family togetherness.” Whose vision will win out? Or will a new addition to the Heffley family change everything? Diary of a Wimpy Kid 5: The Ugly Truth  Greg Heffley has always been in a hurry to grow up. But is getting older really all it’s cracked up to be?Greg suddenly finds himself dealing with the pressures of boy-girl parties, increased responsibilities, and even the awkward changes that come with getting older—all without his best friend, Rowley, at his side. Can Greg make it through on his own? Or will he have to face the “ugly truth”? The View from Saturday  HOW HAD MRS. OLINSKI CHOSEN her sixth-grade Academic Bowl team? She had a number of answers. But were any of them true? How had she really chosen Noah and Nadia and Ethan and Julian? And why did they make such a good team?It was a surprise to a lot of people when Mrs. Olinski's team won the sixth-grade Academic Bowl contest at Epiphany Middle School. It was an even bigger surprise when they beat the seventh grade and the eighth grade, too. And when they went on to even greater victories, everyone began to ask: How did it happen? It happened at least partly because Noah had been the best man (quite by accident) at the wedding of Ethan's grandmother and Nadia's grandfather. It happened because Nadia discovered that she could not let a lot of baby turtles die. It happened when Ethan could not let Julian face disaster alone. And it happened because Julian valued something important in himself and saw in the other three something he also valued. Mrs. Olinski, returning to teaching after having been injured in an automobile accident, found that her Academic Bowl team became her answer to finding confidence and success. What she did not know, at least at first, was that her team knew more than she did the answer to why they had been chosen. This is a tale about a team, a class, a school, a series of contests and, set in the midst of this, four jewel-like short stories — one for each of the team members — that ask questions and demonstrate surprising answers. The View from Saturday  HOW HAD MRS. OLINSKI CHOSEN her sixth-grade Academic Bowl team? She had a number of answers. But were any of them true? How had she really chosen Noah and Nadia and Ethan and Julian? And why did they make such a good team?It was a surprise to a lot of people when Mrs. Olinski's team won the sixth-grade Academic Bowl contest at Epiphany Middle School. It was an even bigger surprise when they beat the seventh grade and the eighth grade, too. And when they went on to even greater victories, everyone began to ask: How did it happen? It happened at least partly because Noah had been the best man (quite by accident) at the wedding of Ethan's grandmother and Nadia's grandfather. It happened because Nadia discovered that she could not let a lot of baby turtles die. It happened when Ethan could not let Julian face disaster alone. And it happened because Julian valued something important in himself and saw in the other three something he also valued. Mrs. Olinski, returning to teaching after having been injured in an automobile accident, found that her Academic Bowl team became her answer to finding confidence and success. What she did not know, at least at first, was that her team knew more than she did the answer to why they had been chosen. This is a tale about a team, a class, a school, a series of contests and, set in the midst of this, four jewel-like short stories — one for each of the team members — that ask questions and demonstrate surprising answers. The View from Saturday  HOW HAD MRS. OLINSKI CHOSEN her sixth-grade Academic Bowl team? She had a number of answers. But were any of them true? How had she really chosen Noah and Nadia and Ethan and Julian? And why did they make such a good team?It was a surprise to a lot of people when Mrs. Olinski's team won the sixth-grade Academic Bowl contest at Epiphany Middle School. It was an even bigger surprise when they beat the seventh grade and the eighth grade, too. And when they went on to even greater victories, everyone began to ask: How did it happen? It happened at least partly because Noah had been the best man (quite by accident) at the wedding of Ethan's grandmother and Nadia's grandfather. It happened because Nadia discovered that she could not let a lot of baby turtles die. It happened when Ethan could not let Julian face disaster alone. And it happened because Julian valued something important in himself and saw in the other three something he also valued. Mrs. Olinski, returning to teaching after having been injured in an automobile accident, found that her Academic Bowl team became her answer to finding confidence and success. What she did not know, at least at first, was that her team knew more than she did the answer to why they had been chosen. This is a tale about a team, a class, a school, a series of contests and, set in the midst of this, four jewel-like short stories — one for each of the team members — that ask questions and demonstrate surprising answers. The 39 Clues 2: One False Note  Super-selling author Gordon Korman sends Amy and Dan off on a wild chase in Book 2 of the highly-anticipated "39 Clues" series. This just in! Amy and Dan Cahill were spotted on a train, hot on the trail of one of 39 Clues hidden around the world. But wait! Police report a break-in at an elite hotel, and the suspects also sound suspiciously like Amy and Dan. Update! Amy and Dan have been seen in a car...no, in a speedboat chase...and hold everything! They're being chased by an angry mob. When there's a Clue on the line, anything can happen. Think you've gone everywhere books can take you? Think again. Books are going to a new place but you have to follow the clues to get there.Join Amy and Dan as they continue the hunt for the 39 Clues in "Book Two: One False Note". The high-octane adventures will continue for a total of ten exhilarating books written by well-known authors over two years. "The 39 Clues" also encompasses hundreds of game cards and an online world that allows you to play a part in the story and compete for 100s of prizes, totaling over GBP50,000.The 39 Clues 8: The Emperor's Code  Tensions run high in the explosive 8th book of 39 Clues, the #1 New York Times bestselling series.JOIN ANYTIME TO PLAY FOR THE CHANCE TO WIN! As the race to find the 39 Clues builds to its explosive finish, Amy and Dan must explore an ancient culture and steal a Clue guarded by thousands of the world's best-trained soldiers. It's the most dangerous Clue search yet. As their enemies crowd in, Amy and Dan find themselves separated for the first time ever. The choice lies before them - find the next Clue, or find their way back to each other. No More Dead Dogs  Nobody understands Wallace Wallace. This reluctant school football hero has been suspended from the team for writing an unfavorable book report of Old Shep, My Pal. But Wallace won`t tell a lie-he hated every minute of the book! Why does the dog in every classic novel have to croak at the end? After refusing to do a rewrite, his English teacher, who happens to be directing the school play Old Shep, My Pal, forces him go to the rehearsals as punishment. Although Wallace doesn`t change his mind, he does end up changing the play into a rock-and-roll rendition, complete with Rollerblades and a moped!No More Dead Dogs  Onion John  The story of a friendship between a 12-year-old boy and an immigrant handyman, almost wrecked by the good intentions of the townspeople.Worth  Before the accident Nathaniel's life seemed pretty good. His help around the farm made his father proud. But now, with a busted leg, Nathaniel can't do farmwork anymore, so his father adopts another son through the Orphan Train. Feeling replaced and useless, Nathaniel attends school for the first time. Meanwhile, sturdy and strong John is able to do the work that earns Pa's attention.But the truth is, John Worth has his own set of troubles. He is treated more like a servant than a son. Kept awake at night by nightmares of his family's death, he remembers having a pa who took pride in him. But now he has no one, until a community battle and a special book reveal a potential friend — and a chance for understanding. Worth  Before the accident Nathaniel's life seemed pretty good. His help around the farm made his father proud. But now, with a busted leg, Nathaniel can't do farmwork anymore, so his father adopts another son through the Orphan Train. Feeling replaced and useless, Nathaniel attends school for the first time. Meanwhile, sturdy and strong John is able to do the work that earns Pa's attention.But the truth is, John Worth has his own set of troubles. He is treated more like a servant than a son. Kept awake at night by nightmares of his family's death, he remembers having a pa who took pride in him. But now he has no one, until a community battle and a special book reveal a potential friend — and a chance for understanding. The Fledgling  Georgie's fondest hope, to be able to fly, is fleetingly fulfilled when she is befriended by a Canada goose.A Journey to the New World: The Diary of Remember Patience Whipple, Mayflower, 1620  The diary of a young Pilgrim girl who makes the dangerous journey on the Mayflower to America is filled with her thoughts about her new friends, her contact with Native Americans, and her love for her new land.Wolves of the Beyond 2: Shadow Wolf  From bestselling author Kathryn Lasky comes the second book in WOLVES OF THE BEYOND, a stunning new spinoff from her legendary owl series, Guardians of Ga'hoole.The wolf pup Faolan was born with a twisted paw, a slight defect that caused his wolf clan to abandon him in the forest to die. But Faolan, with the help of the grizzly bear who raised him as her own, survived. Now he's made it back to his clan as a gnaw wolf, the lowest ranking pack member. And the hardships are just beginning. Another gnaw wolf, Heep, is jealous of Faolan and sets him up for failure. As if these humiliations are not enough, Faolon is framed for the murder of a wolf pup. Can Faolan catch the culprit in time and prove he deserves to be a full member of the clan? Wolves of the Beyond 3: Watch Wolf  The stirring third installment of the Wolves of the Beyond series.Born with a twisted paw, Faolan was abandoned as a wolf pup and left to die. But not only did he survive and make it back to the wolf clan, he proved himself to be one of the worthiest wolves of all. But just as Faolan is about to take his place on the revered Watch, a bear cub is stolen. The bears blame the wolves, and a war is coming . . . unless Faolan can track down a traitor and rescue the bear cub in time. Wolves of the Beyond 4: Frost Wolf  The latest in bestselling author Kathryn Lasky's stunning wolves series!Faolan has always been an outsider. Exiled as a pup, then shunned by his fellow wolves for his unusual connection to the bears, Faolan has struggled to earn a place in the pack. But a terrible danger is looming on the horizon, and Faolan is the only one who knows how to fight it. Will he be able to claim his rightful place as leader? Unless Faolan can inspire the pack to stand together, it could be the end of the wolves of the beyond. Wolves of the Beyond 5: Spirit Wolf  Faolan, a wolf once doomed to die, struggles to fulfill his destiny as the leader of the wolves of Beyond.No one ever saw Faolan as a leader. Banished as a pup, he survived and returned as a gnaw wolf—the lowest member of the wolf pack. But Faolan wasn't meant to be a gnaw wolf. It's not just his strange, splayed paw, or his uncanny connection with the bears. There's something about Faolan that inspires certain wolves . . . and leaves others deeply suspicious. Now, with a dangerous threat on the horizon, the pack must make a choice. Will they trust the silver outsider with the task of leading? If Faolan can't fulfill his destiny, it could be the end of the wolves of the Beyond. Wolves of the Beyond 6: Star Wolf  The stunning conclusion to bestselling author Kathryn Lasky's Wolves of the Beyond series!A new land awaits the wolves of the Beyond. A great cold and a powerful earthquake have shattered the Beyond forever, and the wolves must find a new home in order to survive. Their only hope lies in what they call the Distant Blue, a faint haze they can make out beyond the frozen sea. Once an outcast, Faolan has spent a lifetime proving that he can be a leader. But as he steps out onto the narrow Ice Bridge the wolves will follow to the Distant Blue, Faolan may be leading his friends into terrible danger. The Distant Blue could save the wolves, or it could be another broken land. And the wolves will face jagged ice, howling winds, and unknown threats from the deep just to get there. Can the refugees work together to reach their new home? Or will Faolan and the last remaining wolves of the Beyond be lost forever? Volcano: The Eruption and Healing of Mount St. Helens  Mount St. Helens's powerful explosions in 1980 shook the country for hundreds of miles; its destructive mudflow leveled whole forests, and left behind desolate landscapes. Almost from the moment the volcano quieted down, there has been a slow but steady return of life to the mountain. With Lauber's taut prose and well-edited photographs, the reader relives the eruption and healing. The author begins with scientists' predictions, 123 years before the volcano blew; documents the actual blast; then traces the surviving plant, animal and insect life which continue to develop to this day. Lauber also explains how these survivors created a base on which other life forms could take hold. The full-color photos allow readers to observe the contrasts caused by the eruptions: a peaceful lake becomes a lunar mudhole, green plants grow stubbornly out of cracks in the hard crust. The bookand Mount St. Helensstand as testimony to the tenacity of life. This is a magnificent, awe-inspiring work.Volcano: The Eruption and Healing of Mount St. Helens  Mount St. Helens's powerful explosions in 1980 shook the country for hundreds of miles; its destructive mudflow leveled whole forests, and left behind desolate landscapes. Almost from the moment the volcano quieted down, there has been a slow but steady return of life to the mountain. With Lauber's taut prose and well-edited photographs, the reader relives the eruption and healing. The author begins with scientists' predictions, 123 years before the volcano blew; documents the actual blast; then traces the surviving plant, animal and insect life which continue to develop to this day. Lauber also explains how these survivors created a base on which other life forms could take hold. The full-color photos allow readers to observe the contrasts caused by the eruptions: a peaceful lake becomes a lunar mudhole, green plants grow stubbornly out of cracks in the hard crust. The bookand Mount St. Helensstand as testimony to the tenacity of life. This is a magnificent, awe-inspiring work.Volcano: The Eruption and Healing of Mount St. Helens  Mount St. Helens's powerful explosions in 1980 shook the country for hundreds of miles; its destructive mudflow leveled whole forests, and left behind desolate landscapes. Almost from the moment the volcano quieted down, there has been a slow but steady return of life to the mountain. With Lauber's taut prose and well-edited photographs, the reader relives the eruption and healing. The author begins with scientists' predictions, 123 years before the volcano blew; documents the actual blast; then traces the surviving plant, animal and insect life which continue to develop to this day. Lauber also explains how these survivors created a base on which other life forms could take hold. The full-color photos allow readers to observe the contrasts caused by the eruptions: a peaceful lake becomes a lunar mudhole, green plants grow stubbornly out of cracks in the hard crust. The bookand Mount St. Helensstand as testimony to the tenacity of life. This is a magnificent, awe-inspiring work.Volcano: The Eruption and Healing of Mount St. Helens  Mount St. Helens's powerful explosions in 1980 shook the country for hundreds of miles; its destructive mudflow leveled whole forests, and left behind desolate landscapes. Almost from the moment the volcano quieted down, there has been a slow but steady return of life to the mountain. With Lauber's taut prose and well-edited photographs, the reader relives the eruption and healing. The author begins with scientists' predictions, 123 years before the volcano blew; documents the actual blast; then traces the surviving plant, animal and insect life which continue to develop to this day. Lauber also explains how these survivors created a base on which other life forms could take hold. The full-color photos allow readers to observe the contrasts caused by the eruptions: a peaceful lake becomes a lunar mudhole, green plants grow stubbornly out of cracks in the hard crust. The bookand Mount St. Helensstand as testimony to the tenacity of life. This is a magnificent, awe-inspiring work.Volcano: The Eruption and Healing of Mount St. Helens  Mount St. Helens's powerful explosions in 1980 shook the country for hundreds of miles; its destructive mudflow leveled whole forests, and left behind desolate landscapes. Almost from the moment the volcano quieted down, there has been a slow but steady return of life to the mountain. With Lauber's taut prose and well-edited photographs, the reader relives the eruption and healing. The author begins with scientists' predictions, 123 years before the volcano blew; documents the actual blast; then traces the surviving plant, animal and insect life which continue to develop to this day. Lauber also explains how these survivors created a base on which other life forms could take hold. The full-color photos allow readers to observe the contrasts caused by the eruptions: a peaceful lake becomes a lunar mudhole, green plants grow stubbornly out of cracks in the hard crust. The bookand Mount St. Helensstand as testimony to the tenacity of life. This is a magnificent, awe-inspiring work.Volcano: The Eruption and Healing of Mount St. Helens  Mount St. Helens's powerful explosions in 1980 shook the country for hundreds of miles; its destructive mudflow leveled whole forests, and left behind desolate landscapes. Almost from the moment the volcano quieted down, there has been a slow but steady return of life to the mountain. With Lauber's taut prose and well-edited photographs, the reader relives the eruption and healing. The author begins with scientists' predictions, 123 years before the volcano blew; documents the actual blast; then traces the surviving plant, animal and insect life which continue to develop to this day. Lauber also explains how these survivors created a base on which other life forms could take hold. The full-color photos allow readers to observe the contrasts caused by the eruptions: a peaceful lake becomes a lunar mudhole, green plants grow stubbornly out of cracks in the hard crust. The bookand Mount St. Helensstand as testimony to the tenacity of life. This is a magnificent, awe-inspiring work.Lost Star: The Story of Amelia Earheart  A fascinating look at the life of a remarkable woman and the unsolved mystery surrounding her disappearance during her attempt to fly around the world in 1937. Photographs.Savvy  Thirteen is when a Beaumont’s savvy hits—and with one brother who causes hurricanes and another who creates electricity, Mibs Beaumont is eager to see what she gets. But just before the big day, Poppa is in a terrible accident. And now all Mibs wants is a savvy that will save him. In fact, Mibs is so sure she’ll get a powerful savvy that she sneaks a ride to the hospital on a rickety bus with her sibling and the preacher’s kids in tow. After this extraordinary adventure—full of talking tattoos and a kidnapping—not a soul on board will ever be the same.A Discussion Guide to Scumble and Savvy by Ingrid Law Mr. Revere and I: Being an Account of Certain Episodes in the Career of Paul Revere, Esq. as Revealed by His Horse  Paul Revere didn't make his famous midnight ride alone. Meet a patriot unlike any other: Scheherazade, the mare who doesn't mind mentioning she was once the fastest and most admired horse in the King's army. But on arrival in America, "Sherry" is quickly let down by her British rider and recruited by Sam Adams to join the Sons of Liberty. Before long, she finds herself teamed with Raul Revere to play a key-if unnoticed-role in the American Revolution. Full of wit and wisdom, this beloved classic presents an unforgettable view to the birth of a nation-straight from the horse's mouth!Explore this historical time period even further in this new edition of award-winning author Robert Lawson's classic tale, with additional bonus material, including a map of Paul Revere's ride! Misadventures of Benjamin Bartholomew Piff 1: You Wish  On his eleventh birthday, sad, orphaned Benjamin Bartholomew Piff accidentally adheres to all of the wishing rules—and, in wishing for the mother lode of limitless wishes, he unknowingly sets into a motion a chain of events that threatens to disrupt the balance between the magical realm of wishes and curses. Before long, Benjamin has been recruited by the Wishworks Factory director himself to fight the evil henchmen of the Curseworks Factory. In the process, Benjamin will reclaim his original wish—giving new credence to the old adage: “Be careful what you wish for . . . ”Misadventures of Benjamin Bartholomew Piff 2: Wishful Thinking  Benjamin Bartholomew Piff thought all of his wishes had finally come true—he’s traded in his soggy cot at Pinch’s Home for Wayward Boys for a Feathered Funicula at the Wishworks Factory. He’s even been named manager of Kids’ Birthday Wishes (ages 3–12)—and he can’t wait to settle in to his new (and improved!) life. But when Ben slips briefly and reveals his identity, his spoiled cousin Penelope Piff figures out his new job. She quickly learns how to get in on the sweet life of magic, but her wishes are anything but sugar and spice and everything nice. This is one Penny that brings nothing but bad luck! Will Ben and his friends be able to save Candlewick and the Wishworks Factory from Penny’s conniving clutches—before she destroys it completely?Darkness Over Denmark: The Danish Resistance and the Rescue of the Jews  The remarkable story of collective and individual acts of bravery and altruism. Photos, map, bibliography, index.Ella Enchanted  Ella is a girl with a most unusual gift, and her story has charmed readers and critics alike. Now Miramax Films brings this wholly original Cinderella story to the silver screen, complete with princes, ogres, wicked stepsisters, and a fairy-tale ending fit for a princess.My Life as a Fifth-Grade Comedian  Bobby is the class clown. He can always be counted on to crack up his friends and sometimes even the teachers. But he can't always be counted on to stay out of trouble'and that's no joke when you're in danger of being shipped off to a special school for kids with ‘behavioral problems.' Bobby's got one last chance to prove to his teachers, his principal, and his parents'especially his super-sarcastic dad'that he can be taken seriously. His assignment: to put on a school-wide laugh-off. It's teachers vs. students'and may the best comic win. It's also a chance for Bobby to show his dad that mean jokes aren't just kidding around. Packed with kid-tested jokes and riddles, this funny novel is also a thoughtful exploration of the power of laughter to hurt'and to heal.2000-2001 Georgia's Picture Storybook Award & Georgia's Children's Book Award Masterlist The Chronicles of Narnia 1: The Magician's Nephew  How Aslan created Narnia and gave the gift of speech to its animals.The Chronicles of Narnia 2: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe  How Aslan, the noble lion, freed Narnia from the spell of the White Witch.The Chronicles of Narnia 2: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe  How Aslan, the noble lion, freed Narnia from the spell of the White Witch.The Chronicles of Narnia 2: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe  How Aslan, the noble lion, freed Narnia from the spell of the White Witch.The Chronicles of Narnia 2: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe  They open a door and enter a worldNarnia ... a land frozen in eternal winter ... a country waiting to be set free. Four adventurers step through a wardrobe door and into the land of Narnia — a land enslaved by the power of the White Witch. But when almost all hope is lost, the return of the Great Lion, Aslan, signals a great change ... and a great sacrifice. The Chronicles of Narnia 2: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe  How Aslan, the noble lion, freed Narnia from the spell of the White Witch.The Chronicles of Narnia 3: The Horse and His Boy  How a talking horse and a boy prince saved Narnia from invasion.The Chronicles of Narnia 3: The Horse and His Boy  How a talking horse and a boy prince saved Narnia from invasion.The Chronicles of Narnia 3: The Horse and His Boy  How a talking horse and a boy prince saved Narnia from invasion.The Chronicles of Narnia 3: The Horse and His Boy  How a talking horse and a boy prince saved Narnia from invasion.The Chronicles of Narnia 4: Prince Caspian  How good Prince Caspian and his army of Talking Beasts conquered the Telmarines.The Chronicles of Narnia 5: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader  Narnia ... where anything can happen (and most often does) ... and where the adventure begins.The Dawn Treader is the first ship Narnia has seen in centuries. King Caspian has built it for his first voyage to find the seven lords, good men whom his evil uncle Miraz banished when he usurped the throne. The journey takes Edmund, Lucy, their cousin Eustace, and Caspian to the Eastern Islands, beyond the Silver Sea, toward Aslan's country at the End of the World. The Chronicles of Narnia 5: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader  How King Caspian sailed through the magic waters to the End of the World.The Chronicles of Narnia 6: The Silver Chair  How captive Prince Rilian escaped from the Emerald Witch's underground kingdom.The Chronicles of Narnia 7: The Last Battle  How evil came to Narnia and Aslan led his people to a glorious new paradise.The Chronicles of Narnia 7: The Last Battle  Where the Mountain Meets the Moon  This Newbery Honor book features magic, adventure, friendship, and even a dragon who can't fly!In the valley of Fruitless Mountain, a young girl named Minli lives in a ramshackle hut with her parents. In the evenings, her father regales her with old folktales of the Jade Dragon and the Old Man on the Moon, who knows the answers to all of life's questions. Inspired by these stories, Minli sets off on an extraordinary journey to find the Old Man on the Moon to ask him how she can change her family's fortune. She encounters an assorted cast of characters and magical creatures along the way, including a dragon who accompanies her on her quest for the ultimate answer. Grace Lin, author of the beloved Year of the Dog and Year of the Rat, returns with a wondrous story of adventure, faith, and friendship. A fantasy crossed with Chinese folklore, Where the Mountain Meets the Moon is a timeless story reminiscent of The Wizard of Oz. Her beautiful illustrations, printed in full-color, accompany the text throughout. Once again, she has created a charming, engaging book for young readers. Alexander Graham Bell: Teacher of the Deaf  Doctor Dolittle 2: The Voyages of Doctor Dolittle  Doctor Dolittle heads for the high seas in perhaps the most amazing adventure ever experienced by man or animal.Half a Chance  A moving middle-grade novel from the Newbery Honor author of "Rules."When Lucy's family moves to an old house on a lake, Lucy tries to see her new home through her camera's lens, as her father has taught her — he's a famous photographer, away on a shoot. Will her photos ever meet his high standards? When she discovers that he's judging a photo contest, Lucy decides to enter anonymously. She wants to find out if her eye for photography is really special — or only good enough. As she seeks out subjects for her photos, Lucy gets to know Nate, the boy next door. But slowly the camera reveals what Nate doesn't want to see: his grandmother's memory is slipping away, and with it much of what he cherishes about his summers on the lake. This summer, Nate will learn about the power of art to show truth. And Lucy will learn how beauty can change lives...including her own. Gossamer  Where do dreams come from? What stealthy nighttime messengers are the guardians of our most deeply hidden hopes and our half-forgotten fears? Drawing on her rich imagination, two-time Newbery winner Lois Lowry confronts these questions and explores the conflicts between the gentle bits and pieces of the past that come to life in dream, and the darker horrors that find their form in nightmare. In a haunting story that tiptoes between reality and imagination, two people—a lonely, sensitive woman and a damaged, angry boy—face their own histories and discover what they can be to one another, renewed by the strength that comes from a tiny, caring creature they will never see.Gossamer is perfect for readers not quite ready for Lois Lowry's Newbery-Award winner The Giver and also for readers interested in dreams, nightmares, spirits and the dream world. Number the Stars  It’s 1943 Copenhagen and the Jews of Denmark are being “relocated,” so Annemarie Johansen’s best friend, Ellen, moves in with the Johansens and pretends to be part of the family. When Annemarie is asked to go on a dangerous mission, she must find the courage to save her friend’s life.Number the Stars  It’s 1943 Copenhagen and the Jews of Denmark are being “relocated,” so Annemarie Johansen’s best friend, Ellen, moves in with the Johansens and pretends to be part of the family. When Annemarie is asked to go on a dangerous mission, she must find the courage to save her friend’s life.Number the Stars  It’s 1943 Copenhagen and the Jews of Denmark are being “relocated,” so Annemarie Johansen’s best friend, Ellen, moves in with the Johansens and pretends to be part of the family. When Annemarie is asked to go on a dangerous mission, she must find the courage to save her friend’s life.Number the Stars  It’s 1943 Copenhagen and the Jews of Denmark are being “relocated,” so Annemarie Johansen’s best friend, Ellen, moves in with the Johansens and pretends to be part of the family. When Annemarie is asked to go on a dangerous mission, she must find the courage to save her friend’s life.Number the Stars  It’s 1943 Copenhagen and the Jews of Denmark are being “relocated,” so Annemarie Johansen’s best friend, Ellen, moves in with the Johansens and pretends to be part of the family. When Annemarie is asked to go on a dangerous mission, she must find the courage to save her friend’s life.Number the Stars  Number the Stars  Number the Stars  Number the Stars  Number the Stars  Number the Stars  Number the Stars  Number the Stars  Number the Stars  The Big Field  Playing shortstop is a way of life for Hutch?not only is his hero, Derek Jeter, a shortstop, but so was his father, a former local legend turned pro. Which is why having to play second base feels like demotion to second team. Yet that?s where Hutch ends up after Darryl ?D-Will? Williams, the best shortstop prospect since A-Rod, joins the team. But Hutch is nothing if not a team player, and he?s cool with playing in D-Will?s shadow?until, that is, the two shortstops in Hutch?s life betray him in a way he never could have imagined. With the league championship on the line, just how far is Hutch willing to bend to be a good teammate?Athlete vs. Mathlete 1  Owen Evans lights up the scoreboards. His brother, Russell, rocks the school boards. These twin brothers couldn't be more different. They've long kept the peace by going their separate ways, but all that is about to change. The new basketball coach recruits Russell for the seventh grade team and a jealous Owen has to fight to stay in the game. When someone tries to steal Russell's spot as captain of the mathlete team, will the two be able to put aside their differences in order to save his position? Or will they be sidelined?Perfect for fans of Matt Christopher and Andrew Clements alike, this is a lighthearted and hilarious look at what happens when brains meets brawn meets basketball. The Silk Route: 7,000 Miles of History  Silk has long been considered a symbol of wealth and luxury. But thousands of years ago, the production of silk cloth was one of China's most prized secrets. So how did silk become one of the most sought-after materials in the world?With lavish illustrations and a highly informative text, The Silk Route traces the early history of the silk trade-from the mulberry groves of China to the marketplace in Byzantium-and explores how two of the world's greatest empires were brought together, forever opening the channels of commerce between East and West. P. S. Longer Letter Later  Best friends Elizabeth and Tara Starr now live in different towns, but they continue their friendship through letters. Paula Danziger writes in Tara's voice, and Ann M. Martin in Elizabeth's voice, in this complex and emotionally rich novel about two friends coping with overwhelming change.The Candymakers  Four gifted twelve-year-olds, including Logan, the candymaker’s son, are set to be contestants in the Confectionary Association’s national competition to determine the nation’s tastiest sweet, but nobody anticipates that a friendship will form between them.The Candymakers  A Boy at War: A Novel of Pearl Harbor  December 7, 1941: A morning like any other, but the events of this day would leave no one untouched.For Adam, living near Honolulu, this Sunday morning is one he has been looking forward to — fishing with friends, away from the ever-watchful eyes of his father, a navy lieutenant. Then, right before his eyes, Adam watches Japanese planes fly overhead and attack the U.S. Navy. All he can think is that it's just like in the movies. But as he sees his father's ship, the Arizona, sink beneath the water, he realizes this isn't make-believe. It's real. Over the next few days, Adam searches for answers — about his friends, the war, and especially, his father. But Adam soon learns sometimes there are no answers. The Life of César Chávez  The Bicycle Spy  Marcel loves riding his bicycle, whether he's racing through the streets of his small town in France or making bread deliveries for his parents' bakery. He dreams of someday competing in the Tour de France, the greatest bicycle race. But ever since Germany's occupation of France began two years ago, in 1940, the race has been canceled. Now there are soldiers everywhere, interrupting Marcel's rides with checkpoints and questioning.Then Marcel learns two big secrets, and he realizes there are worse things about the war than a canceled race. When he later discovers that his friend's entire family is in imminent danger, Marcel knows he can help — but it will involve taking a risky bicycle ride to pass along covert information. And when nothing ends up going according to plan, it's up to him to keep pedaling and think quickly... because his friend, her family, and his own future hang in the balance. Caterpillar Summer  Coming Home: A Story of Josh Gibson, Baseball's Greatest Home Run Hitter  This is a story of Josh Gibson, whom many consider to be one of the best players in baseball history. Josh's incredible feats remain largely unknown, however, for he played at a time when baseball, like much of America, was segregated by race. As told by a grandfather to his grandson, this beautifully illustrated tribute describes a magical day in Yankee Stadium many years ago when the Homestead Grays faced off against the Lincoln Giants in the Negro League Championship series. Legend has it that eighteen-year-old Josh Gibson hit a home run out of the ballpark that day - a feat that has never been equaled before or since. Readers of all ages will be touched by this special story of a heroic man whoovercame many challenges on his way to greatness.The Quest for the Tree Kangaroo: An Expedition to the Cloud Forest of New Guinea  It looks like a bear, but isn’t one. It climbs trees as easily as a monkey— but isn’t a monkey, either. It has a belly pocket like a kangaroo, but what’s a kangaroo doing up a tree? Meet the amazing Matschie’s tree kangaroo, who makes its home in the ancient trees of Papua New Guinea’s cloud forest. And meet the amazing scientists who track these elusive animals. This title has been selected as a Common Core Text Exemplar (Grades 4-5, Informational Texts)Freedom Songs  In the sixties, when Sheryl's Uncle Pete joins the Freedom Riders down South, she organizes a gospel concert in Brooklyn to help him.Gentle Ben: The Classic Story of a Boy and His Beloved Pet  The Alaskan wilderness is a lonely place for Mark Andersen, especially after the death of his older brother, Jamie. But in time Mark finds someone else to love—Ben, an Alaskan brown bear so huge that no one else dares come near him. Gentle Ben has been a favorite of readers of all ages for 25 years, and is a timeless story of a rare friendship. An ALA Notable Book.Shiloh 3: Saving Shiloh  DOES EVERYONE DESERVE A SECOND CHANCE?Marty's parents think so — even Judd Travers, whose history of drinking and violence keeps Marty from completely trusting that his beloved dog, Shiloh, will always be safe from Judd. "Some people just seem to attract trouble," Marty's Ma says, and Judd attracts the sort of trouble that makes it hard to believe he's really changed. First, the police find the body of a man who'd fought with Judd. Then, a vicious attack forces Judd to kill one of his dogs. But just when it seems Judd will never be able to escape the shadow of his past, a dangerous accident gives him the chance to prove himself. Can Judd Travers actually become a hero? Shiloh 3: Saving Shiloh  DOES EVERYONE DESERVE A SECOND CHANCE?Marty's parents think so — even Judd Travers, whose history of drinking and violence keeps Marty from completely trusting that his beloved dog, Shiloh, will always be safe from Judd. "Some people just seem to attract trouble," Marty's Ma says, and Judd attracts the sort of trouble that makes it hard to believe he's really changed. First, the police find the body of a man who'd fought with Judd. Then, a vicious attack forces Judd to kill one of his dogs. But just when it seems Judd will never be able to escape the shadow of his past, a dangerous accident gives him the chance to prove himself. Can Judd Travers actually become a hero? Children of the Red King 1: Midnight for Charlie Bone  Children of the Red King 2: Charlie Bone and the the Time Twister  In January, 1916, Henry Yewbeam picks up a mysterious glowing glass ball that comes rolling towards him while he is playing marbles. The ball is, in truth, a time twister that his nasty cousin Zeke has made sure Henry will find. The unsuspecting Henry gazes into the time twister and is transported far into the future where he meets Charlie Bone, his great nephew and reluctant student at Bloor's Academy where Henry's now ancient, but still nasty cousin, Ezekiel, lives. Charlie has to hide Henry from Ezekiel and from all the other members of the extended and malevolent Yewbeam and Bloor families while he figures out a way to send Henry back to 1916.Children of the Red King 3: Charlie Bone and the Invisible Boy  This semester at Bloor's Academy brings a few changes. There is a new art teacher, Mr. Boldova, and a new student named Belle, who lives with the Yewbeam aunts and seems to have strange power over them. Emma and Charlie soon discover Mr. Boldova's secret identity: He is the older brother of Ollie Sparks, the boy who lives in the attic of Bloor's Academy. Ollie had always been prying into matters that didn't concern him, so Ezekiel Bloor had made him invisible. When Charlie and his friends find him, Ollie is alone and hungry, so they promise to help him become visible again.Children of the Red King 4: Charlie Bone and the Castle of Mirrors  Charlie Bone is back at Bloor Academy, where a new semester-and new powers-await him. But nothing is quite the same as Charlie left it. A mysterious student seems to be magnetic. One of the new teachers stands out-for all the wrong reasons. And before long, Charlie learns that his friend Billy has been locked behind a force field in the spooky Passing House.But when Charlie discovers the secret of the Castle of Mirrors everything changes. Sinister forces are at work, and only one of the endowed children can set things right again. But who?Keys to the Kingdom 2: Grim Tuesday  Arthur Penhaligon's magical adventures continue as he faces a new grave danger — in the form of an enemy named Grim Tuesday. More amazing fantasy from best-selling author Garth Nix.Arthur doesn't think he will ever have to return to the strange house that nearly killed him on Monday — the house that contains an entire world. But Tuesday brings new challenges — in the form of an enemy named Grim Tuesday, who threatens the well-being of both Arthur's family and his world. Arthur must retrieve the Second Key from Grim Tuesday in order to save everything — an adventure that will include stealing a Sunship, surviving a very weird work camp, befriending a bearlike spirit, fighting the voidlike Nithlings, and traveling to the scary Far Reaches for the ultimate showdown. Wish  A touching story about a girl and her dog, perfect for young animal loversEleven-year-old Charlie Reese has been making the same secret wish every day since fourth grade. She even has a list of all the ways there are to make the wish, such as cutting off the pointed end of a slice of pie and wishing on it as she takes the last bite. But when she is sent to the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina to live with family she barely knows, it seems unlikely that her wish will ever come true. That is, until she meets Wishbone, a skinny stray dog who captures her heart, and Howard, a neighbor boy who proves surprising in lots of ways. Suddenly Charlie is in serious danger of discovering that what she thought she wanted may not be what she needs at all. From award-winning author Barbara O'Connor comes a middle-grade novel about a girl who, with the help of a true-blue friend, a big-hearted aunt and uncle, and the dog of her dreams, unexpectedly learns the true meaning of family in the least likely of places. This title has Common Core connections. Praise for Wish: “At school, at home, and in the community, the characters and settings are well drawn, but it’s the narrator’s convincing, compelling voice that will draw readers into the novel and keep them there until her wish finally comes true.” ―Booklist “The many ways [Charlie] wishes form something of a catalog of folk and family traditions and are delightful all by themselves....Speaking in an honest voice revealing her hurt, resentment, and vulnerability, Charlies explains how her wish comes true. A warm, real, and heartfelt tale.” ―Kirkus Reviews “O’Connor again finds the sweet spot for young readers who are beyond early chapter books but not quite ready for the cynicism and/or complexity of much tween-into-teen lit. Bertha, Gus, and the Odoms are certainly awash in goodness, but their big-heartedness never devolves into sentimentality.” ―The Bulletin “Like a generous portions of grits, Wish makes the world a little better.” ―Bookpage “This heartwarming story is not to be missed.” ―Kidsreads Thunder Rolling in the Mountains  For ages 9 to 12, RL 5.6It is the spring of 1877 when fourteen-year-old Sound of Running Feet, daughter of Chief Joseph of the Nez Perce, sees white people panning gold in the little creek that feeds the Wallowa River, and brings word of them to her father. "They are the first, but more are on the way," he says. "We are few and they are many. They will devour us." It is Sound of Running Feet who narrates the story of her tribe's fate. Readers will be gripped as she shares with us her respect for her father, her love for handsome Swan Necklace, and her destiny. Dinosaur Boy 1  Everyone knows the dinosaur gene skips a generation.So it isn't a complete surprise when Sawyer sprouts spikes and a tail before the start of fifth grade. After all, his grandfather was part stegosaurus. Being a dinosaur is pretty cool, despite a sudden craving for vegetables. Except some of the kids at school aren't too thrilled with his spikey tail even if he covers them with tennis balls. Sawyer is relieved when a couple of the bullies mysteriously stop coming to school, until he discovers a secret more shocking than Dino DNA! The disappearing kids are in for a galactically horrible fate...and only Sawyer, with the help of his friends Elliot and Sylvia, can rescue them. "A hilarious adventure and as sharp as a stegosaurus's tail...fantastic." ―Nathan Bransford, author of Jacob Wonderbar and the Cosmic Space Kapow on Dinosaur Boy "Funny, fast-paced, and filled with surprising twists, Dinosaur Boy is a charming story... will have boys and girls roaring for more!" -Nikki Loftin, author of The Sinister Sweetness of Splendid Academy and Nightingale's Nest A Junior Library Guild selection And don't miss the thrilling sequel Dinosaur Boy Saves Mars ― coming February 2016. Silverwing: How One Small Bat Became a Noble Hero  Shade is a young silverwing bat, the runt of his colony. But he's determined to prove himself on the long, dangerous winter migration to Hibernaculum, millions of wingbeats to the south. During a fierce storm, he loses the others and soon faces the most incredible journey of his young life. Desperately searching for a way to rejoin his flock, Shade meets a remarkable cast of characters: Marina, a Brightwing bat with a strange metal band on her leg; Zephyr, a mystical albino bat with an unusual gift; and Goth, a gigantic carnivorous vampire bat. But which ones are friends and which ones are enemies? In this epic story of adventure and suspense, Shade is going to need all the help he can find — if he hopes to ever see his family again.Wonder  August Pullman was born with a facial difference that, up until now, has prevented him from going to a mainstream school. Starting 5th grade at Beecher Prep, he wants nothing more than to be treated as an ordinary kid—but his new classmates can’t get past Auggie’s extraordinary face. WONDER, now a #1 New York Times bestseller and included on the Texas Bluebonnet Award master list, begins from Auggie’s point of view, but soon switches to include his classmates, his sister, her boyfriend, and others. These perspectives converge in a portrait of one community’s struggle with empathy, compassion, and acceptance."Wonder is the best kids' book of the year," said Emily Bazelon, senior editor at Slate.com and author of Sticks and Stones: Defeating the Culture of Bullying and Rediscovering the Power of Character and Empathy. In a world where bullying among young people is an epidemic, this is a refreshing new narrative full of heart and hope. R.J. Palacio has called her debut novel “a meditation on kindness” —indeed, every reader will come away with a greater appreciation for the simple courage of friendship. Auggie is a hero to root for, a diamond in the rough who proves that you can’t blend in when you were born to stand out. Join the conversation: #thewonderofwonder The Graduation of Jake Moon  HOW CAN YOU LOVE SOMEONE AND RESENT HIM AT THE SAME TIME?Jake Moon used to love the time he spent with his grandfather, Skelly, but that was before Skelly got Alzheimer's disease. All of a sudden, it's as if Skelly is the kid, and Jake has to be the grown-up. Much of Skelly's care becomes Jake's responsibility, and that doesn't leave much time for a life of his own. Then, one day Jake rebels, and the unthinkable happens. Has Jake discovered too late how much his grandfather still means to him? A Single Shard  Tree-ear is an orphan boy in a 12th-century Korean potters’ village. When he accidentally breaks a pot, he must work for the master to pay for the damage by setting off on a difficult and dangerous journey that will change his life forever.A Single Shard  Tree-ear is an orphan boy in a 12th-century Korean potters’ village. When he accidentally breaks a pot, he must work for the master to pay for the damage by setting off on a difficult and dangerous journey that will change his life forever.A Single Shard  Tree-ear is an orphan boy in a 12th-century Korean potters’ village. When he accidentally breaks a pot, he must work for the master to pay for the damage by setting off on a difficult and dangerous journey that will change his life forever.A Single Shard  Tree-ear is an orphan boy in a 12th-century Korean potters’ village. When he accidentally breaks a pot, he must work for the master to pay for the damage by setting off on a difficult and dangerous journey that will change his life forever.Rosa Parks: My Story  Rosa Parks is best known for the day she refused to give up her seat on a segregated bus, sparking the Montgomery, Alabama, bus boycott. Yet there is much more to her story than this one act of defiance. In this straightforward, compelling autobiography, Rosa Parks talks candidly about the civil rights movement and her active role in it. Her dedication is inspiring; her story is unforgettable. "The simplicity and candor of this courageous woman's voice makes these compelling events even more moving and dramatic." ? Publishers Weekly, starred reviewBridge to Terabithia  A secret world of their ownJess Aaron's greatest ambition is to be the fastest runner in the fifth grade. He's been practicing all summer and can't wait to see his classmates' faces when he beats them all. But on the first day of school, a new kid, a new girl, boldly crosses over to the boy's side of the playground and outruns everyone. That's not a very promising beginning for a friendship, but Jess and Leslie Burke become inseparable. It doesn't matter to Jess that leslie dresses funny, or that her family has a lot of money — but no TV. Leslie has imagination. Together, she and Jess create Terabithia, a magical kingdom in the woods where the two of them reign as king and queen, and their imaginations set the only limits. Then one morning a terrible tragedy occurs. Only when Jess is able to come to grips with this tragedy does he finally understand the strength and courage Leslie has given him. Brian's Saga 4: Brian's Return  As millions of readers of Hatchet, The River, and Brian's Winter know, Brian Robeson survived alone in the wilderness by finding solutions to extraordinary challenges. But now that's he's back in civilization, he can't find a way to make sense of high school life. He feels disconnected, more isolated than he did alone in the North. The only answer is to return-to "go back in"-for only in the wilderness can Brian discover his true path in life, and where he belongs.From the Paperback edition. Brian's Saga 4: Brian's Return  As millions of readers of Hatchet, The River, and Brian's Winter know, Brian Robeson survived alone in the wilderness by finding solutions to extraordinary challenges. But now that's he's back in civilization, he can't find a way to make sense of high school life. He feels disconnected, more isolated than he did alone in the North. The only answer is to return-to "go back in"-for only in the wilderness can Brian discover his true path in life, and where he belongs.From the Paperback edition. Mudshark  Lost your shoe? Can't find your homework? Mudshark is the guy everyone goes to when there's a mystery to solve. That is, until the Psychic Parrot comes to live in the school library-and threatens to take over Mudshark's position as the one who knows all the answers! Right now, the principal knows that the school needs someone who's good at solving problems. An escaped gerbil is running through the school, there's an emergency in the faculty restroom, and all the board erasers are disappearing from the classrooms. Can Mudshark outwit the Psychic Parrot and restore order to the school? Winner of three Newbery Honors, Gary Paulsen is the best-selling author of Hatchet, Brian's Winter, Dogsong, and many other reader favorites.Mudshark  Lost your shoe? Can't find your homework? Mudshark is the guy everyone goes to when there's a mystery to solve. That is, until the Psychic Parrot comes to live in the school library-and threatens to take over Mudshark's position as the one who knows all the answers! Right now, the principal knows that the school needs someone who's good at solving problems. An escaped gerbil is running through the school, there's an emergency in the faculty restroom, and all the board erasers are disappearing from the classrooms. Can Mudshark outwit the Psychic Parrot and restore order to the school? Winner of three Newbery Honors, Gary Paulsen is the best-selling author of Hatchet, Brian's Winter, Dogsong, and many other reader favorites.Mudshark  Lost your shoe? Can't find your homework? Mudshark is the guy everyone goes to when there's a mystery to solve. That is, until the Psychic Parrot comes to live in the school library-and threatens to take over Mudshark's position as the one who knows all the answers! Right now, the principal knows that the school needs someone who's good at solving problems. An escaped gerbil is running through the school, there's an emergency in the faculty restroom, and all the board erasers are disappearing from the classrooms. Can Mudshark outwit the Psychic Parrot and restore order to the school? Winner of three Newbery Honors, Gary Paulsen is the best-selling author of Hatchet, Brian's Winter, Dogsong, and many other reader favorites.The Haymeadow  Fourteen-year-old John Barron is asked, like his father and grandfather before him, to spend the summer taking care of their sheep in the haymeadow. Six thousand sheep. John will be alone, except for two horses, four dogs, and all those sheep.John doesn't feel up to the task, but he hopes that if he can accomplish it, he will finally please his father. But John finds that the adage "things just to sheep" is true when the river floods, coyotes attack, and one dog's feet get cut. Through it all he must rely on his own resourcefulness, ingenuity, and talents to survive this summer in the haymeadow. The Transall Saga  Mark's solo camping trip in the desert turns into a terrifying and thrilling odyssey when a mysterious beam of light transports him to another time on what appears to be another planet. As Mark searches for a pathway back to his own time on Earth, he must make a new life in a new world. His encounters with primitive tribes bring the joy of human bonds, but violence and war as well—and, finally, a contest in which he discovers his own startling powers.Tracker  Young John Borne starts to believe that the doe that he has been steadily tracking may be able to magically avoid death and thus help him save his mortally ill grandfather. Reprint. AB. VY.Tucket's Travels 1: Mr. Tucket  Fourteen-year-old Francis Tucket is heading west on the Oregon Trail with his family by wagon train. When he receives a rifle for his birthday, he is thrilled that he is being treated like an adult. But Francis lags behind to practice shooting and is captured by Pawnees. It will take wild horses, hostile tribes, and a mysterious one-armed mountain man named Mr. Grimes to help Francis become the man who will be called Mr. Tucket.Tucket's Travels 1: Mr. Tucket  Fourteen-year-old Francis Tucket is heading west on the Oregon Trail with his family by wagon train. When he receives a rifle for his birthday, he is thrilled that he is being treated like an adult. But Francis lags behind to practice shooting and is captured by Pawnees. It will take wild horses, hostile tribes, and a mysterious one-armed mountain man named Mr. Grimes to help Francis become the man who will be called Mr. Tucket.Tucket's Travels 1: Mr. Tucket  Fourteen-year-old Francis Tucket is heading west on the Oregon Trail with his family by wagon train. When he receives a rifle for his birthday, he is thrilled that he is being treated like an adult. But Francis lags behind to practice shooting and is captured by Pawnees. It will take wild horses, hostile tribes, and a mysterious one-armed mountain man named Mr. Grimes to help Francis become the man who will be called Mr. Tucket.The Winter Room  This Newbery Honor Book by master storyteller Gary Paulsen is now available in this After Words paperback edition!Following the turn of the seasons, eleven year old Eldon traces the daily routines of his life on a farm and his relationship with his older brother Wayne. During the winter, with little work to be done on the farm, Eldon and Wayne spend the quiet hours with their family, listening to their Uncle David's stories. But Eldon soon learns that, although he has lived on the same farm, in the same house with his uncle for eleven springs, summers, and winters, he hardly knows him. Woodsong  Gary Paulsen, three-time Newbery Honor author, is no stranger to adventure. He has flown off the back of a dogsled and down a frozen waterfall to near disaster, and waited for a giant bear to seal his fate with one slap of a claw. He has led a team of sled dogs toward the Alaskan Mountain Range in an Iditarod — the grueling, 1,180-mile dogsled race — hallucinating from lack of sleep, but he determined to finish.Here, in vivid detail, Paulsen recounts several of the remarkable experiences that shaped his life and inspired his award-winning writing. Woodsong  A LIFE AS EXCITING AS FICTIONGary Paulsen, three-time Newbery Honor author, is no stranger to adventure. He has flown off the back of a dogsled and down a frozen waterfall to near disaster, and waited for a giant bear to seal his fate with one slap of a claw. He has led a team of sled dogs toward the Alaskan Mountain Range in an Iditarod — the grueling, 1,180-mile dogsled race — hallucinating from lack of sleep, but he determined to finish. Here, in vivid detail, Paulsen recounts several of the remarkable experiences that shaped his life and inspired his award-winning writing. A School Library Journal Best Book A Booklist Editors' Choice Trouble Don't Last  Eleven-year-old Samuel was born as Master Hackler’s slave, and working the Kentucky farm is the only life he’s ever known—until one dark night in 1859, that is. With no warning, cranky old Harrison, a fellow slave, pulls Samuel from his bed and, together, they run.The journey north seems much more frightening than Master Hackler ever was, and Samuel’s not sure what freedom means aside from running, hiding, and starving. But as they move from one refuge to the next on the Underground Railroad, Samuel uncovers the secret of his own past—and future. And old Harrison begins to see past a whole lifetime of hurt to the promise of a new life—and a poignant reunion— in Canada. In a heartbreaking and hopeful first novel, Shelley Pearsall tells a suspenseful, emotionally charged story of freedom and family. Trouble Don't Last includes a historical note and map. Trouble Don't Last  Eleven-year-old Samuel was born as Master Hackler’s slave, and working the Kentucky farm is the only life he’s ever known—until one dark night in 1859, that is. With no warning, cranky old Harrison, a fellow slave, pulls Samuel from his bed and, together, they run.The journey north seems much more frightening than Master Hackler ever was, and Samuel’s not sure what freedom means aside from running, hiding, and starving. But as they move from one refuge to the next on the Underground Railroad, Samuel uncovers the secret of his own past—and future. And old Harrison begins to see past a whole lifetime of hurt to the promise of a new life—and a poignant reunion— in Canada. In a heartbreaking and hopeful first novel, Shelley Pearsall tells a suspenseful, emotionally charged story of freedom and family. Trouble Don't Last includes a historical note and map. Odin's Family: Myths of the Vikings  Stories about the adventures of Odin, father of the gods, and his children bring out both the comic and tragic elements of the Viking myths and feature the thunder god, Thor, and the frost giant, Loki.The Buck Stops Here: The Presidents of the United States  This rich pageant of the American presidents is the culmination of award-winning author-illustrator Alice Provensen's distinguished career. Using detailed vignettes that capture each era, witty couplets, and extensive factual material, Provensen takes readers on a journey from George Washington through Barack Obama. Newly updated, this twentieth anniversary edition is a treasure trove of American history.The Revolutionary War: An Interactive History Adventure  It’s the late 1700s. Tensions are brewing between the American colonies and Great Britain. The Revolutionary War is about to begin. Will you: Help the network of patriot spies in your city? OR… Fight for independence as a patriot soldier? OR… Work to keep the colonies under British rule?Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur 1: BFF  LUNELLA LAFAYETTE is a preteen super genius who wants to change the world-but learned the hard way that it takes MORE than just big brains. Fearful of the monstrous INHUMAN genes inside her, life is turned upside down when a savage, red-scaled tyrant is teleported from prehistoric past to a far-flung future we call TODAY. The pair are many things, and together the most amazing Marvel Team-Up.COLLECTING: MOON GIRL AND DEVIL DINOSAUR 1-6 The Boy Who Saved Baseball  Tom Gallagher is in a tight spot. The fate of the Dillontown team rests on the outcome of one baseball game, winner take all. If Tom's team loses, they lose their field too. But how can they possibly win? Just when everything seems hopeless, a mysterious boy named Cruz de la Cruz rides into town and claims to know the secret of hitting. Not to mention the secrets of Dante Del Gato, Dillontown's greatest hitter ever. Since he walked away from the game years ago, Del Gato hasn't spoken a word to anyone. But now he might be Tom's only hope for saving his hometown. From the award-winning author of Over the Wall and Choosing Up Sides comes this imaginative tale of one boy's struggle to preserve the spirit of the game he loves.Avalon - Web of Magic 4: The Secret of the Unicorn  Avalon is a magical mix of mismatched girlfriends; mysterious and endangered animals, enchanted power stones, and spellbinding music-coming together to wage a fantasy-driven battle of good vs. evil.Ever since the portal to the world of Aldenmor opened, magical animals have appeared at the Ravenswood Wildlife preserve. Most are refugees needing to be healed. So far, Emily, Kara and Adriane, using their power stones, have been able to help. But now, a baby unicorn has come through. It is frightened, badly wounded and confused. What special magic does it hold? Who hurt it, and why? What secrets does it hide in its heart? If the girls can figure it out, they may uncover the most important clue yet to finding Avalon. But time is running out, and if Emily can’t save it, all hope may be lost. The Hero Two Doors Down: Based on the True Story of Friendship between a Boy and a Baseball Legend  Stephen Satlow is an eight-year-old boy living in Brooklyn, New York, which means he only cares about one thing-the Dodgers. Steve and his father spend hours reading the sports pages and listening to games on the radio. Aside from an occasional run-in with his teacher, life is pretty simple for Steve.But then Steve hears a rumor that an African American family is moving to his all-Jewish neighborhood. It's 1948 and some of his neighbors are against it. Steve knows this is wrong. His hero, Jackie Robinson, broke the color barrier in baseball the year before. Then it happens—Steve's new neighbor is none other than Jackie Robinson! Steve is beyond excited about living two doors down from the Robinson family. He can't wait to meet Jackie. This is going to be the best baseball season yet! How many kids ever get to become friends with their hero? Rowan of Rin 2: Rowan and the Travelers  The secret enemy is here.It hides in darkness, fools beware! A mysterious danger threatens Rowan's village, Rin. But who is the enemy? And what is the strange spell that is putting all the townspeople to sleep? The Travelers, a roaming people who are friends of Rin, might be able to help, but Rowan isn't sure he can trust them. Especially since they tell him that to find the answers to Rin's problems, Rowan must go to the legendary, noxious Pit of Unrin, from which no living thing has ever returned. The American Revolution Begins!  The Story of Sacajawea: Guide to Lewis and Clark  As a young girl, Sacajawea was separated from her family when she was captured by a band of Minnetaree warriors and taken to be their slave. Several years later, she was bought by a French fur trader to be his wife. Then, in 1804, when she was only sixteen years old, Sacajawea met Lewis and Clark.Carrying her infant son on her back, Sacajawea helped guide the famous team of explorers through the uncharted terrain of the western United States. Her courageous efforts made an important contribution to America's history. Harry Potter: The Tales of Beedle the Bard  The Tales of Beedle the Bard, a Wizarding classic, first came to Muggle readers' attention in the book known as Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. Now, thanks to Hermione Granger's new translation from the ancient runes, we present this stunning edition with an introduction, notes, and illustrations by J. K. Rowling, and extensive commentary by Albus Dumbledore.Never before have Muggles been privy to these richly imaginative tales: "The Wizard and the Hopping Pot," "The Fountain of Fair Fortune," "The Warlock’s Hairy Heart," "Babbitty Rabbitty and Her Cackling Stump," and of course "The Tale of the Three Brothers." But not only are they the equal of fairy tales we now know and love, reading them gives new insight into the world of Harry Potter. This purchase also represents another very important form of giving: From every sale of this book, Scholastic will give its net proceeds to Lumos, an international children’s charity founded in 2005 by J. K. Rowling. Lumos is dedicated to ending the institutionalization of children, a harmful practice that affects the lives of up to eight million disadvantaged children around the world who live in institutions and orphanages, many placed there as a result of poverty, disability, disease, discrimination and conflict; very few are orphans. Lumos works to reunite children with their families, promote family-based care alternatives, and help authorities to reform their systems and close down institutions and orphanages. www.wearelumos.org Harry Potter: The Tales of Beedle the Bard  Immigrants: A Library of Congress Book  The Library of Congress, located in Wash., D.C., is often called ''the storehouse of our national memory,'' and is home to the largest collection of knowledge on earth. Here is a fascinating look into the past at some of the most important events in our country's history through the pictures stored in the Library's vast archives. It shows what it was like for people to leave their homelands behind in search of a better life in the U.S., and the struggles they went through once they arrived on these shores through: quotes from immigrants' letters and diaries; vintage photos; posters; and paintings. ''A breathtaking look back through time at the challenges and triumphs of the millions of immigrants who have journeyed to our country.'' Ages 8 and up. Illustrations.George vs. George: The American Revolution As Seen from Both Sides  There are two sides to every story. Rosalyn Schanzer's engaging and wonderfully illustrated book brings to life both sides of the American Revolution.The narrative introduces anew the two enemies, both named George: George Washington, the man who freed the American colonies from the British, and George III, the British king who lost them. Two leaders on different sides of the Atlantic, yet with more in common than we sometimes acknowledge. We are lead through their story, and the story of their times, and see both sides of the arguments that divided the colonies from the Kingdom. Was King George a "Royal Brute" as American patriots claimed? Or was he, as others believed, "the father of the people?" Was George Washington a scurrilous traitor, as all the king's supporters claimed? Or should we remember and celebrate him as "the father of his country?" Who was right? History teaches us that there are two sides to every story. Rosalyn Schanzer's book is an accessible account of one the most vital periods in American history. It is also a timeless lesson in seeing history from different points of view. The author spent two years researching books, paintings, cartoons, and descriptions of Revolutionary times. She uses art, text, and first-hand accounts to illustrate how history should never be reduced to simplistic conflicts between the "good guys" and the "bad guys." Her illustrations, and her engaging quote bubbles, bring the Revolution to life again, and allow the characters of the period to speak for themselves. Through its lively text, detailed illustrations, and fully authenticated quotes, George vs. George shines fresh light on both sides of the story of our country's formative years. Guardians of the Galaxy: Galaxy's Most Wanted  Based on the hit new series, follow the further adventures of the Guardians of the Galaxy! It's a dangerous galaxy, be glad these guys are on our side!COLLECTING: Marvel Universe Guardians of the Galaxy 1-4 Wish Upon a Sleepover  The Pilgrims of Plimoth  Aye, Governor Bradford calls us pilgrims. We are English and England was our home...But our lives were ruled by King James, and for many years it seemed as though our very hearts were in prison in England...September, 1620, our lives changed. We were seventy menfolk and womenfolk, thirty-two good children, a handful of cocks and hens, and two dogs, gathered together on a dock in Plymouth, England, ready to set sail for America in a small ship called the Mayflower... In a text that mirrors their language and thoughts, Marcia Sewall has masterfully recreated the coming of the pilgrims to the New World, and the daily flow of their days during the first years in the colony they called Plimoth. And in stunning, light-filled paintings, she brings to brilliant life that important era in American history. Cirque du Freak 1: A Living Nightmare  From the Master of Horror comes the first gripping book in the twelve book New York Times bestselling Saga of Darren Shan. Start the tale from the beginning in the book that inspired the feature film The Vampire's Assistant and petrified devoted fans worldwide.A young boy named Darren Shan and his best friend, Steve, get tickets to the Cirque Du Freak, a wonderfully gothic freak show featuring weird, frightening half human/half animals who interact terrifyingly with the audience. In the midst of the excitement, true terror raises its head when Steve recognizes that one of the performers— Mr. Crepsley— is a vampire! Stever remains after the show finishes to confront the vampire— but his motives are surprising! In the shadows of a crumbling theater, a horrified Darren eavesdrops on his friend and the vampire, and is witness to a monstrous, disturbing plea. As if by destiny, Darren is pulled to Mr. Crepsley and what follows is his horrifying descent into the dark and bloody world of vampires. This is the beginning of Darren's story. Solomon  Eleven-year-old Solomon Freeman and his parents, newly freed slaves, are building a homestead in north Florida's wilderness. Their battle to survive is filled with harsh difficulties in this wild new home. When Solomon goes on a cattle drive, he confronts a new world as he rides a marshtackie horse, rounding up a large herd of wild cattle and bringing them to market at the coast - where he sees sights he had never dreamed existed. Are the Freemans strong enough to build a successful homestead? Will they be welcomed in this hard place where blacks have only been slaves in years past? Does Solomon have the wisdom he needs to face challenges beyond his years? Winner of the 2006 award from the Florida Historical Society for the best youth-oriented book in Florida history and literature.Running Scared: A Mystery in Carlsbad Caverns National Park  "Jack and Ashley’s search for eight-year-old Sammy has left them hopelessly lost in a twisted maze of tunnels deep inside Carlsbad Caverns. Bats are everywhere, and the echoes of their screeching cries sends a chill through the trio. The only light is the candle in their lantern. What will happen when it burns out, leaving them in total darkness?"=Bone - Quest for the Spark 1  A return to the enthralling world of BONE with book one in this gripping spin-off novel trilogy, illustrated in four-color!Twelve-year-old Tom Elm is just an ordinary turnip farmer from the Valley, but he's always felt destined for something bigger. So when he discovers everyone in his village is asleep and plagued by nightmares, he assembles a band of unlikely heroes. They must fight to preserve the Spark—a divine light born at the core of a vast, dark nothingness called the Nacht. The Nacht is trying to permeate the Waking World with nightmares of the Dreaming, and it's Tom's mission to defeat the Nacht and its most loyal follower, the Constable. If he fails, his family—and everyone—might never wake up again. The Ratbridge Chronicles 1: Here Be Monsters!  Entertaining antics and skullduggery abound in the book that inspired Laika Studio’s animated film The Boxtrolls, in theaters September 26, 2014!Welcome to Ratbridge. But beware—for there is skulduggery afoot. Young Arthur has fallen foul of the appalling outlaw, Snatcher, and is trapped alone in the town with every way home sealed. Meanwhile Snatcher and his men are working tirelessly in secret on a fiendish and dastardly plan to destroy the entire town. With the help of some friendly boxtrolls and cabbageheads, some quirkly townspeople, and the rats and pirates from the Ratbridge Nautical Laundry, can Arthur thwart Snatcher’s evil plans and find his way home? Finding My Hat  In a semi-autobiographical debut novel that is at turns poignant and laugh-out-loud funny, John Son conveys the uniqueness and universality of a Korean-American childhood.Jin-Han Park's story opens with his first memory: losing his hat to a sudden gust of wind. He never gets it back. But his Uhmmah buys him many more hats, and Jin-Han discovers that he can reinvent himself with a change of headgear, be it a bright red cowboy hat or a cap with earflaps. So he tries on hat after hat, searching for his place in America while clinging to his Korean culture and traditions, keeping them from the wind. Being different isn't always easy. But somewhere between kimchee and corn dogs, Jin-Han will make a place for himself . . . The Sign of the Beaver  Twelve-year-old Matt is left on his own in the Maine wilderness while his father leaves to bring the rest of the family to their new settlement. When he befriends Attean, an Indian chief’s grandson, he is invited to join the Beaver tribe and move north. Should Matt abandon his hopes of ever seeing his family again and go on to a new life?The Sign of the Beaver  Do the Funky Pickle  A fast, fun, friendship read from the Newbery-award winning author of Maniac Magee.Eddie Mott has a problem. He is completely and hopelessly in love with his friend Sunny...and he's way too wimpy to tell her. But the school dance is approaching quickly and Eddie knows it's time to act. He has to find a way to make Sunny notice him...but how? Eddie and Pickles come up with a plan that's sure to attract attention. But the girl who falls for Eddie at the dance isn't Sunny—it's Angelpuss, the girlfriend of the toughest, meanest eighth grader around. Eddie is in big, big trouble—unless he and Pickles can come up with some new moves...fast. Knots in My Yo-yo String: The Autobiography of a Kid  "A master of those embarrassing, gloppy, painful, and suddenly wonderful things that happen on the razor's edge between childhood and full-fledged adolescence" (The Washington Post), Newbery medalist Jerry Spinelli has penned his early autobiography with all the warmth, humor, and drama of his best-selling fiction. From first memories through high school, including first kiss, first punch, first trip to the principal's office, and first humiliating sports experience, this is not merely an account of a highly unusual childhood. Rather, like Spinelli's fiction, its appeal lies in the accessibility and universality of his life. Entertaining and fast-paced, this is a highly readable memoir— a must-have for Spinelli fans of all ages. From the Trade Paperback edition. Loser  Just like other kids, Zinkoff rides his bike, hopes for snow days, and wants to be like his dad when he grows up. But Zinkoff also raises his hand with all the wrong answers, trips over his own feet, and falls down with laughter over a word like "Jabip."Other kids have their own word to describe him, but Zinkoff is too busy to hear it. He doesn't know he's not like everyone else. And one winter night, Zinkoff's differences show that any name can someday become "hero." Loser  Just like other kids, Zinkoff rides his bike, hopes for snow days, and wants to be like his dad when he grows up. But Zinkoff also raises his hand with all the wrong answers, trips over his own feet, and falls down with laughter over a word like "Jabip."Other kids have their own word to describe him, but Zinkoff is too busy to hear it. He doesn't know he's not like everyone else. And one winter night, Zinkoff's differences show that any name can someday become "hero." Who Put That Hair in My Toothbrush?  The sibling rivalry between twelve-year-old Megin and her older brother Greg intensifies after she ruins his science project and he retaliates by throwing her favorite hockey stick into the pond.Wringer  Palmer LaRue is running out of birthdays. For as long as he can remember, he's dreaded the day he turns ten — the day he'll take his place beside all the other ten-year-old boys in town, the day he'll be a wringer. But Palmer doesn't want to be a wringer. It's one of the first things he learned about himself and it's one of the biggest things he has to hide. In Palmer's town being a wringer is an honor, a tradition passed down from father to son. Palmer can't stop himself from being a wringer just like he can't stop himself from growing one year older, just like he can't stand up to a whole town — right? Newbery Medal winner Jerry Spinelli's most powerful novel yet is a gripping tale of how one boy learns how not to be afraid.Abel's Island  Whatever child likes The Bat-Poet or Charlotte's Web will love the way Stieg uses our language and will want to relive Abel's odyssey on many a rainy Sunday afternoon.- ROSEMARY WELLS, The Washington Post Book World Abel's Island  Whatever child likes The Bat-Poet or Charlotte's Web will love the way Stieg uses our language and will want to relive Abel's odyssey on many a rainy Sunday afternoon.- ROSEMARY WELLS, The Washington Post Book World Abel's Island  Whatever child likes The Bat-Poet or Charlotte's Web will love the way Stieg uses our language and will want to relive Abel's odyssey on many a rainy Sunday afternoon.- ROSEMARY WELLS, The Washington Post Book World The Real Thief  Gawain is a loyal and true goose serving as chief guard of the royal treasury. He’d been happy enough with his life at home tending his garden and making sketches of architectural masterpieces. Now he’s being charged with stealing from the treasury. Gawain is certain of his innocence, but he can’t prove it. Will the real thief come forward to save Gawain, or will he live in exile forever?Goosebumps 30: It Came from Beneath the Sink!  An evil, living creature called The Sponge appears to be an ordinary kitchen sponge, but thrives on human bad luck, which it deliberately causes and then sucks up while refusing to do the dishes.A Ballad of the Civil War  Tom and Jack Rigby were as close as close could be. And Aaron, a slave boy at Rigby Plantation, was almost as close to the twins as they were to each other. Tom didn't dream that anything could ever come between them.He was wrong. On their ninth birthday, Tom and Jack learned that they would never see their friend Aaron again. Aaron was getting too uppity, said Father, so he had him sent away from the Big House to live down in the quarter. Eleven years later, it is Tom who is leaving the Big House. He is riding north to enlist in the Union army, leaving behind an unforgiving brother who will never understand why Tom will not - indeed cannot - defend their father's right to own people. Inspired by a nineteenth-century ballad that she learned as a child, Mary Stolz has created a moving and dramatic story about two boys growing up in an era that sadly ended in a "brothers' war." A Ballad of the Civil War  Tom and Jack Rigby were as close as close could be. And Aaron, a slave boy at Rigby Plantation, was almost as close to the twins as they were to each other. Tom didn't dream that anything could ever come between them.He was wrong. On their ninth birthday, Tom and Jack learned that they would never see their friend Aaron again. Aaron was getting too uppity, said Father, so he had him sent away from the Big House to live down in the quarter. Eleven years later, it is Tom who is leaving the Big House. He is riding north to enlist in the Union army, leaving behind an unforgiving brother who will never understand why Tom will not - indeed cannot - defend their father's right to own people. Inspired by a nineteenth-century ballad that she learned as a child, Mary Stolz has created a moving and dramatic story about two boys growing up in an era that sadly ended in a "brothers' war." Trapped  The stories behind the headlines of real people who've been trapped in wells, mines, buildings, submarines, mountainsides, and airplanes.Roll with It  On Board the Titanic: What It Was Like When the Great Liner Sank  Young readers can travel back in time to the fateful maiden voyage of the majestic Titanic in this compelling narrative. Told through the eyes of two young survivors and beautifully illustrated with breathtaking paintings and diagrams, this dramatic account vividly re-creates the night the world's most famous passenger ship sank to the bottom of the icy Atlantic. Sidebars explain interesting facts and details, and a cutaway offers a visual replica of the massive, decadent liner.Smile  From the artist of BSC Graphix comes this humorous coming-of-age true story about the dental drama that ensues after a trip-and-fall mishap.Raina just wants to be a normal sixth grader. But one night after Girl Scouts she trips and falls, severely injuring her two front teeth. What follows is a long and frustrating journey with on-again, off-again braces, surgery, embarrassing headgear, and even a retainer with fake teeth attached. And on top of all that, there's still more to deal with: a major earthquake, boy confusion, and friends who turn out to be not so friendly. Leon's Story  "Leon's Story is a powerful, wonderful thing!" — Nikki GiovanniI remember that as a young boy I used to look in the mirror and I would curse my color, my blackness. But in those days they didn't call you "black." They didnt say "minority." They called us "colored" or "nigger." Leon Tillage grew up the son of a sharecropper in a small town in North Carolina. Told in vignettes, this is his story about walking four miles to the school for black children, and watching a school bus full of white children go past. It's about his being forced to sit in the balcony at the movie theater, hiding all night when the Klansmen came riding, and worse. Much worse. But it is also the story of a strong family and the love that bound them together. And, finally, it's about working to change an oppressive existence by joining the civil rights movement. Edited from recorded interviews conducted by Susan L. Roth, Leon's story will stay with readers long after they have finished his powerful account. Leon's Story is the winner of the 1998 Boston Globe - Horn Book Award for Nonfiction. Leon's Story  Surviving the Applewhites  Jake Semple is a scary kid. Word has it that he burned down his old school and then was kicked out of every other school in his home state. Only weeks into September, the middle school in Traybridge, North Carolina, has thrown him out, too.Now there's only one place left that will take him — a home school run by the most outrageous, forgetful, chaotic, quarrelsome family you'll ever meet. Each and every Applewhite is an artist through and through — except E.D., the smart, scruffy girl with a deep longing for order and predictability. E.D. and Jake, so nearly the same age, are quickly paired in the family's first experiment in "cooperative education." The two clash immediately, of course. The only thing they have in common is the determination to survive the family's eccentricities. In Stephanie S. Tolan's hilarious tale, a local production of The Sound of Music directed, stagecrafted, choreographed, and costumed by Apple-whites — brings the family together and shows E.D. and Jake the value of the special gifts they've had all along. A Crooked Kind of Perfect  Zoe Elias has big musical dreams. A soon as she gets a glossy baby grand piano, she'll be on her way. Trouble is, what Zoe gets is a wood-grained, vinyl-seated, wheeze-bag organ. The Perfectone D-60. How will she ever be discovered as a prodigy when her lesson book is The Hits of the Seventies? Not eve cha-cha beat can make the theme song from The Brady Bunch sound like Beethoven. If you add to that the problem a mom who's always at work, a dad who's afraid to leave the house, and an odd boy who follows her home from school every day, Zoe's big dreams are looking pretty lopsided. But when she enters the annual Perform-O-Rama organ competition, Zoe discovers that life is full of surprises - and that maybe a little lopsidedness will help her find what she's really hoping for.A Crooked Kind of Perfect  Ten-year-old Zoe Elias has perfect piano dreams. She can practically feel the keys under her flying fingers; she can hear the audience's applause. All she needs is a baby grand so she can start her lessons, and then she'll be well on her way to Carnegie Hall. But when Dad ventures to the music store and ends up with a wheezy organ instead of a piano, Zoe's dreams hit a sour note. Learning the organ versions of old TV theme songs just isn't the same as mastering Beethoven on the piano. And the organ isn't the only part of Zoe's life that's off-kilter, what with Mom constantly at work, Dad afraid to leave the house, and that odd boy, Wheeler Diggs, following her home from school every day. Yet when Zoe enters the annual Perform-O-Rama organ competition, she finds that life is full of surprises—and that perfection may be even better when it's just a little off center.Tillerman Cycle 4: The Runner  A SPEEDING BULLETBullet Tillerman runs. He runs to escape the criticism of his harsh, unforgiving father. He runs to numb the pain of his mother's inability to express her love. He is the star of the school track team, but he isn't a team man and doesn't want to be. Bullet runs for himself. Bullet is unlikely choice to be asked to coach a new, African-American team member. But in coaching Tamer Shipp, Bullet learns some things about himself — who he is, and who he can perhaps become. Seaward Born  "Sometimes a man has to risk everything to do what's right. Doing it is what makes him a man."Thirteen-year-old Michael knows he is lucky. Few slaves in 1805 Charleston are where they want to be. But Michael works on the docks and ships in Charleston Harbor, close to the seas he longs to sail. Life seems good. But when Michael's protective mistress dies, everything changes, and Michael's friend Jim encourages him to run away. Michael is torn. Should he risk everything for a chance at freedom in some unknown place? Or should he stay — is staying safe worth staying a slave? Seaward Born  "Sometimes a man has to risk everything to do what's right. Doing it is what makes him a man."Thirteen-year-old Michael knows he is lucky. Few slaves in 1805 Charleston are where they want to be. But Michael works on the docks and ships in Charleston Harbor, close to the seas he longs to sail. Life seems good. But when Michael's protective mistress dies, everything changes, and Michael's friend Jim encourages him to run away. Michael is torn. Should he risk everything for a chance at freedom in some unknown place? Or should he stay — is staying safe worth staying a slave? Seaward Born  "Sometimes a man has to risk everything to do what's right. Doing it is what makes him a man."Thirteen-year-old Michael knows he is lucky. Few slaves in 1805 Charleston are where they want to be. But Michael works on the docks and ships in Charleston Harbor, close to the seas he longs to sail. Life seems good. But when Michael's protective mistress dies, everything changes, and Michael's friend Jim encourages him to run away. Michael is torn. Should he risk everything for a chance at freedom in some unknown place? Or should he stay — is staying safe worth staying a slave? Seaward Born  "Sometimes a man has to risk everything to do what's right. Doing it is what makes him a man."Thirteen-year-old Michael knows he is lucky. Few slaves in 1805 Charleston are where they want to be. But Michael works on the docks and ships in Charleston Harbor, close to the seas he longs to sail. Life seems good. But when Michael's protective mistress dies, everything changes, and Michael's friend Jim encourages him to run away. Michael is torn. Should he risk everything for a chance at freedom in some unknown place? Or should he stay — is staying safe worth staying a slave? The Books of Elsewhere 1: The Shadows  For fans of Pseudonymous Bosch, Coraline, and Septimus Heap comes the first book in the award-winning, New York Times bestselling Books of Elsewhere series.This house is keeping secrets . . . When eleven-year-old Olive and her parents move into the crumbling mansion on Linden Street and find it filled with mysterious paintings, Olive knows the place is creepy—but it isn’t until she encounters its three talking cats that she realizes there’s something darkly magical afoot. Then Olive finds a pair of antique spectacles in a dusty drawer and discovers the most peculiar thing yet: She can travel inside the house’s spooky paintings to a world that’s strangely quiet . . . and eerily sinister. But in entering Elsewhere, Olive has been ensnared in a mystery darker and more dangerous than she could have imagined, confronting a power that wants to be rid of her by any means necessary. With only the cats and an unusual boy she meets in Elsewhere on her side, it’s up to Olive to save the house from the shadows, before the lights go out for good. One Crazy Summer 1  In this Newbery Honor novel, New York Times bestselling author Rita Williams-Garcia tells the story of three sisters who travel to Oakland, California, in 1968 to meet the mother who abandoned them.Eleven-year-old Delphine is like a mother to her two younger sisters, Vonetta and Fern. She's had to be, ever since their mother, Cecile, left them seven years ago for a radical new life in California. When they arrive from Brooklyn to spend the summer with her, Cecile is nothing like they imagined. While the girls hope to go to Disneyland and meet Tinker Bell, their mother sends them to a day camp run by the Black Panthers. Unexpectedly, Delphine, Vonetta, and Fern learn much about their family, their country, and themselves during one truly crazy summer. This moving, funny novel won the Scott O'Dell Award for Historical Fiction and the Coretta Scott King Award and was a National Book Award Finalist. Readers who enjoy Christopher Paul Curtis's The Watsons Go to Birmingham will find much to love in One Crazy Summer. Delphine, Vonetta, and Fern's story continues in P.S. Be Eleven. Supports the Common Core State Standards One Crazy Summer 2: P.S. Be Eleven  In this Coretta Scott King Award-winning novel and sequel to the New York Times bestseller and Newbery Honor Book One Crazy Summer, the Gaither sisters return to Brooklyn and find that changes large and small have come to their home. This extraordinary novel earned five starred reviews, with Publishers Weekly calling it "historical fiction that's as full of heart as it is of heartbreak" and The Horn Book considering it "funny, wise, poignant, and thought-provoking."After spending the summer in Oakland, California, with their mother and the Black Panthers, Delphine, Vonetta, and Fern arrive home with a newfound streak of independence. The sisters aren't the only ones who have changed. Now Pa has a girlfriend. Uncle Darnell returns from Vietnam a different man. But Big Ma still expects Delphine to keep her sisters in line. That's much harder now that Vonetta and Fern refuse to be bossed around. Besides her sisters, Delphine's got plenty of other things to worry about—like starting sixth grade, being the tallest girl in her class, and dreading the upcoming school dance. The one person she confides in is her mother, Cecile. Through letters, Delphine pours her heart out and receives some constant advice: to be eleven while she can. Supports the Common Core State Standards The Sweetest Sound  A story about friendship, family, and finding your voice by the author of President of the Whole Sixth GradeFor ten-year-old Cadence Jolly, birthdays are a constant reminder of all that has changed since her mother skipped town with dreams of becoming a singing star. Cadence inherited that musical soul, she can't deny it, but otherwise she couldn't be more different — she's shy as can be. She did make a promise last year that she would try to break out of her shell, just a little. And she prayed that she'd get the courage to do it. As her eleventh birthday draws near, she realizes time is running out. And when a secret recording of her singing leaks and catches the attention of her whole church, she needs to decide what's better: deceiving everyone by pretending it belongs to someone else, or finally stepping into the spotlight. In a story filled with whimsy and hope, Sherri Winston inspires readers to embrace the voice within. Dear Austin: Letters from the Underground Railroad  Now in paperback! In this companion novel to Dear Levi, told in letters,11-year-old Levi helps a young African American in a harrowing flight for freedom along the Underground Railroad.George Washington's Socks  When five kids take a walk along Lake Levart late one night, a mysterious wooden rowboat beckons them aboard. As if in a trance, they all step inside. But what they don't realize is that this enchanted boat is headed backward in time, to the time of George Washington. And their neighborhood lake has been transformed into the icy Delaware River on the eve of the battle at Trenton. How will they ever find their way back to the safety of their familiar suburban homes?As Matthew, Quentin, Hooter, Tony, and Katie experience the American Revolution firsthand and learn the sobering realities of war, Elvira Woodruff spins a compelling historic fantasy that won't soon be forgotten. Enchanted Forest Chronicles 1: Dealing with Dragons  Cimorene is everything a princess is not supposed to be: headstrong, tomboyish, smart. . . .And bored. So bored that she runs away to live with a dragon . . . and finds the family and excitement she's been looking for. Enchanted Forest Chronicles 1: Dealing with Dragons  Cimorene is everything a princess is not supposed to be: headstrong, tomboyish, smart. . . .And bored. So bored that she runs away to live with a dragon . . . and finds the family and excitement she's been looking for. Enchanted Forest Chronicles 1: Dealing with Dragons  Cimorene is everything a princess is not supposed to be: headstrong, tomboyish, smart. . . .And bored. So bored that she runs away to live with a dragon . . . and finds the family and excitement she's been looking for. The Pigman  A Most Unusual FriendshipWhen sophomores John and Lorraine played a practical joke a few months ago on a stranger named Angelo Pignati, they had no idea what they were starting. Virtually overnight, almost against their will, the two befriended the lonely old man; it wasn't long before they were more comfortable in his house than their own. But now Mr. Pignati is dead. And for John and Lorraine, the only way to find peace is to write down their friend's story — the story of the Pigman. |
Mrs. Benton's Classroom
Library Total:
2,493 Items
2,493 Items
Last Updated:
Aug 29, 2022
Aug 29, 2022