This summer our Summer Reading "Read Beyond the Beaten Path" is based on a trip in the White Mountains. So pack your bags and don't forget a few good books!
Outside, You Notice by
A lyrical nonfiction celebration of the outdoors pairing childlike observation with facts about the natural world Outside, you notice things. Time spent in the outdoors stirs a child's imagination. Nature sparks wonder, wonder leads to curiosity, and curiosity brings about a greater knowledge of the world and one's self. In Outside, You Notice, a meditative thread of child-like observations (How after the rain / Everything smells greener) is paired with facts about the habits and habitats of animals, insects, birds, and plants (A tree's roots reach as wide as its branches). Author Erin Alladin invites young scientists and daydreamers to look closely and think deeply in this lyrical nonfiction text, celebrating all the kinds of "outside" that are available to children, from backyards to city parks to cracks in the sidewalk. Illustrator Andrea Blinick portrays these spaces bursting with small wonders with a child's-eye view, her naïve and nostalgic style capturing the joy of endless discovery.
Hedgehog by
Hedgehog is hogging the hedge and won't let the other animals live there. In this humorous political allegory, he learns that it's not a winning strategy. Winter is coming, and the animals need homes. The worms move in with the groundhogs. The possums share a burrow with the foxes. The birds and the squirrels stay in the oak tree together. The hedgehog lives in the hedge . . . all by himself. When other animals come looking for a place to stay, he's NOT interested; it's HIS hedge and everyone else can STAY OUT. He gets busy making signs, putting locks on his door and even building a fence. All he cares about is keeping the other animals out . . . but he's making a huge mistake. Will the other animals find a home in time? Will Hedgehog learn his lesson? Is this a terrific story? Read on to find out.
Gnome by
Mr. Gnome is a grumpy little fellow. He's really quite rude and he is definitely NOT cute. So when Miss Witch asks him to kindly stop fishing in her pond, Mr. Gnome is in danger of finding out exactly what happens to gnomes who say "NO!" From author illustrator Fred Blunt comes this laugh-out-loud cautionary tale, told in a wonderfully conversational style.
Book! Book! Book! by
When the children go back to school, the animals on the farm have nothing to do. That is...until they discover the library. But when Cow, Pig, Horse, and Goat try to check out a book, they are met with a very puzzled librarian. Why can't she understand? It is only when Hen gives it a try - "book! Book! BOOK!" - that the animals finally get what they want! "Young kids...[will] love making all the animal noises and recognize how it feels when an adult doesn't understand." - Booklist
Milo Imagines the World by
The team behind the Newbery Medal winner and Caldecott Honor book Last Stop on Market Street and the award-winning New York Times bestseller Carmela Full of Wishes once again delivers a poignant and timely picture book that's sure to become an instant classic. Milo is on a long subway ride with his older sister. To pass the time, he studies the faces around him and makes pictures of their lives. There's the whiskered man with the crossword puzzle; Milo imagines him playing solitaire in a cluttered apartment full of pets. There's the wedding-dressed woman with a little dog peeking out of her handbag; Milo imagines her in a grand cathedral ceremony. And then there's the boy in the suit with the bright white sneakers; Milo imagines him arriving home to a castle with a drawbridge and a butler. But when the boy in the suit gets off on the same stop as Milo--walking the same path, going to the exact same place--Milo realizes that you can't really know anyone just by looking at them.
Edmund the Elephant Who Forgot by
'Elephants always remember. Elephants don't get it wrong. Elephants always remember. As long as they sing this song!' Edmund is a very forgetful elephant. When he's sent to the shops to fetch some things he soon finds that he can't remember what he was meant to buy, and soon his purchases are getting sillier and sillier. Can his friend Colin the Cricket help him to remember? And can you spot all of Colin's appearances? Children will laugh along with this delightful and very funny story from debut author, Kate Dalgleish, with a subtle and timely message about adjusting to circumstances and making the best of mistakes or unexpected occurrences.
Not Yeti by
New York Times bestselling author Kelly DiPucchio and celebrated illustrator Claire Keane have created an irresistible new monster! Monsters are loud. And rude. They like to smash things and they always need to be right. But not Yeti. Yeti bakes banana bread and sings to whales and always has a nice word to say. But sometimes you find yourself alone when you're different. And Yeti doesn't know there's a special surprise in store for him. New York Times bestselling author Kelly DiPucchio and celebrated illustrator Claire Keane have created a lovable new character who always chooses kindness, no matter what the other monsters say.
Maxine by
Max has a little sister! Fans of the late-blooming superhero will thrill to meet super-sibling Maxine, who flies high with style--her own. Max's baby sister arrives with two little strands of red hair at exactly the stroke of midnight. Maxine receives a superhero's welcome: Grandma and Grandpa make presents, Madame Thunderbolt and Captain Lightning show her off at the office, and Max is there for her first steps, her first words, and her first book. Then, just as everyone expects her to, she flies! But not all superheroes wear masks and capes, and Maxine is determined to be herself, dream big, and fly high on her own terms. Fans of Bob Graham's signature humor and heart are in for a treat in this bright, bold sequel to the recently re-released Max, perfect for any child who wonders, "But who am I going to be?"
The Smart Cookie by
An Instant New York Times Bestseller! Be a smart cookie--and don't miss the fifth picture book in the #1 New York Times bestselling Food Group series from creators Jory John and Pete Oswald! This cookie has never felt like a smart cookie no matter how hard she tries, especially in comparison to all the clever cupcakes and brilliant rolls in the bakery. Will a dash of creativity and a sprinkle of confidence be enough to help her learn that perfect scores and having all the answers aren't the only ingredients for intelligence? Jory John and Pete Oswald serve up another heaping plate of laughs and lessons with this empowering, witty, and charming addition to their #1 New York Times bestselling series! Check out Jory John and Pete Oswald's other funny, bestselling books for kids 4-8 and anyone who wants a laugh: The Bad Seed The Good Egg The Cool Bean The Couch Potato The Good Egg Presents: The Great Eggscape! The Bad Seed Presents: The Good, the Bad, the Spooky! That's What Dinosaurs Do
A Girl Like Me by
"[A] rallying cry for girls to reject limitations others might place on them and their dreams."--starred,The Horn Book Magazine "Once I dreamed I swam / the ocean / and saw everything deep,cool / and was part of the waves. / I swam on by the people / onshore /hollering, / 'A girl like you needs to / stay out of the water / and be dry /like everyone else.'" Empower young readers to embrace their individuality, reject societal limitations, and follow their dreams. This inspiring picture book brings together a poem by acclaimed author Angela Johnson and Nina Crews's distinctive photocollage illustrations to celebrate girls of color.
How to Apologize by
From the Theodor Seuss Geisel Award-winning creators of See the Cat: Three Stories About a Dog comes a funny and handy guide that explains just how (and how not!) to say "I'm sorry." Wouldn't the world be a better place if everyone knew how to apologize? Luckily, this humorous guidebook is full of practical tips about when, why, and how to say you're sorry. From a porcupine who accidentally popped his friend's balloon to a snail who was running so fast he stepped on a sloth's toes, hilarious examples and sweet illustrations abound. For both listeners who are just learning and older readers who need a refresher, this book will come as a welcome reminder that even though apologizing can be hard, it doesn't have to be complicated.
Jayden's Impossible Garden by
Jayden and a new friend bring nature to the city in this timeless story about a community garden Amidst all the buildings, people, and traffic in his neighborhood, Jayden sees nature everywhere: the squirrels scrounging, the cardinals calling, and the dandelions growing. But Mama doesn't believe there's nature in the city. So Jayden sets out to help Mama see what he sees. With the help of his friend Mr. Curtis, Jayden plants the seeds of a community garden and brings together his neighbors--and Mama--to show them the magic of nature in the middle of the city. Timeless and vibrant, this story highlights the beauty of intergenerational relationships and the power of imagination and perseverance in bringing the vision of a community garden to life. Jayden's love of nature will inspire readers to see their environment and surroundings as bursting with opportunities for growth and connection. At the back of the book, readers will find activities to make items found in the book, such as the milk jug bird feeder. Jayden's Impossible Garden is the winner of the 2019 African American Voices in Children's Literature writing contest, cosponsored by Strive Publishing and Free Spirit Publishing.
Hope at Sea by
Hope doesn't only want to listen to her father's storiesabout his voyages at sea, she wants to bepartof those stories. And so, unbeknownst to her parents, she stows away on her father's 19th-century merchant vessel.But look... The wind has picked up and the sky is darkening... Could there be such a thing as an adventure that istooexciting? Join high-spirited Hope on a trip of a lifetime in this exquisitely illustrated picture bookthat also captures the love between a father and child.
Not Little by
Just because you're really small doesn't mean you can't have a big heart. When the diminutive Dot stands up to a bully on behalf of an even smaller friend, she proves how big she can truly be. Dot is the smallest person in her family and at school; even her name is small! People often mistake her for being younger than she is, but not when she tells them the square root of sixty-four is eight, nor when she orders from the grown-up menu at restaurants or checks out the hard books at the library. She may be small, but she's not little. When a new boy named Sam joins Dot's class, she wonders if he's even smaller than she is. When she sees him getting bullied by a mean kid twice his size, she knows she has to do the big thing and stand up for him. Maya Myers's debut picture book has a pitch-perfect voice that captures the inimitable Dot in all her fierceness, and Hyewon Yum's delightful pastel-hued artwork is its perfect complement. A Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection An ALSC Notable Children's Book
A Kid Is a Kid Is a Kid by
In this companion to the enormously popular A Family Is a Family Is a Family, a group of kids share the silly questions they always hear, as well as the questions they would rather be asked about themselves. Being the new kid is hard, a child in the school playground tells us. I can think of better things to ask than if I'm a boy or a girl. Another child comes along and says she gets asked why she always has her nose in a book. Someone else gets asked where they come from. One after another, children share the questions they're tired of being asked again and again -- as opposed to what they believe are the most important or interesting things about themselves. As they move around the playground, picking up new friends along the way, there is a feeling of understanding and acceptance among them. And in the end, the new kid comes up with the question they would definitely all like to hear: "Hey kid, want to play?" Sara O'Leary's thoughtful text and Qin Leng's expressive illustrations tell a story about children who are all different, all themselves, all just kids. Correlates to the Common Core State Standards in English Language Arts: CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.1.6 Identify who is telling the story at various points in a text. CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.2.6 Acknowledge differences in the points of view of characters, including by speaking in a different voice for each character when reading dialogue aloud. CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.2.1 Ask and answer such questions as who, what, where, when, why, and how to demonstrate understanding of key details in a text. CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.3.1 Ask and answer questions to demonstrate understanding of a text, referring explicitly to the text as the basis for the answers. CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.1.7 Use illustrations and details in a story to describe its characters, setting, or events. CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.2.7 Use information gained from the illustrations and words in a print or digital text to demonstrate understanding of its characters, setting, or plot. CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.3.7 Explain how specific aspects of a text's illustrations contribute to what is conveyed by the words in a story (e.g., create mood, emphasize aspects of a character or setting)
Truman by
An NPR Favorite Book of 2019 A New York Times Best Children's book of 2019 A Kirkus Reviews Best Picture Book of 2019 A School Library Journal Best Picture Book of 2019 "An enchanting tale of bravery, heroism, and undying devotion." --The New York Times Book Review After his best friend Sarah leaves for her first day of school, a tortoise named Truman goes on an adventure across the living room and learns to be brave in this thoughtful and heartwarming twist on a first experience story. Truman the tortoise lives with his Sarah, high above the taxis and the trash trucks and the number eleven bus, which travels south. He never worries about the world below...until one day, when Sarah straps on a big backpack and does something Truman has never seen before. She boards the bus! Truman waits for her to return. He waits. And waits. And waits. And when he can wait no longer, he knows what he must do. Even if it seems...impossible!
I Talk Like a River by
Winner of the Schneider Family Book Award Boston Globe-Horn Book Award Winner What if words got stuck in the back of your mouth whenever you tried to speak? What if they never came out the way you wanted them to? Sometimes it takes a change of perspective to get the words flowing. A New York Times Best Children's Book of the Year I wake up each morning with the sounds of words all around me. And I can't say them all . . . When a boy who stutters feels isolated, alone, and incapable of communicating in the way he'd like, it takes a kindly father and a walk by the river to help him find his voice. Compassionate parents everywhere will instantly recognize a father's ability to reconnect a child with the world around him. Poet Jordan Scott writes movingly in this powerful and ultimately uplifting book, based on his own experience, and masterfully illustrated by Greenaway Medalist Sydney Smith. A book for any child who feels lost, lonely, or unable to fit in. Finalist for the BC and Yukon Christie Harris Illustrated Children's Literature Prize A Charlotte Zolotow Honor Book An American Library Association Notable Children's Book ILA Primary Fiction Honoree Named a Best Book of the Year by The Wall Street Journal, People Magazine, NPR, Kirkus Reviews, Shelf Awareness, Bookpage, School Library Journal, Publishers Weekly, Publishers Lunch, and more! A Horn Book Fanfare Best Book of the Year A Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection A Bank Street Best Childrens Book of the Year! A Chicago Public Library Best Book of the Year A CBC Best Picture Book of the Year A Kids' Book Choice Award Finalist
CATastrophe! by
Nine kittens go on an exciting boating adventure that's a (funny) catastrophe in this playful picture book that demonstrates the key math concept of patterns. A crew of hungry kittens and their captain head to the lake to catch some dinner, but the fish have surprises in store for them. Even before the cats encounter the fish, they run into trouble. What happens when confused kitties paddle every which way? Or when they all lean in the same direction? A pattern is needed to avoid a catastrophe! Patterns are the foundation on which math is built. Using strong rhythm, clever wordplay, and countable characters, CATastrophe! is a fun read-aloud that also shows what patterns can do. Helpful backmatter will deepen readers' understanding and challenge them to find more patterns in this book and in our world. There's also much to find in the illustrations-including a dragonfly and worm that each appear twenty times.
Dad Bakes by
A Kirkus Reviews Best Children's Book of 2021 A Publishers Weekly Best Children's Book of 2021 An Amazon Best Children's Book of 2021 A New York Public Library Best Book of 2021 Dad wakes early every morning before the sun, heading off to work at the bakery. He kneads, rolls, and bakes, and as the sun rises and the world starts its day, Dad heads home to his young daughter. Together they play, read, garden, and--most importantly--they bake. This lovely, resonant picture book was inspired by muralist Katie Yamasaki's work with formerly incarcerated people. With subtle, uncluttered storytelling amplified by her monumental and heartfelt paintings, she has created a powerful story of love, of family, and of reclaiming a life with joy.
Sheepish (Wolf under Cover) by
Hungry Wolf disguises himself as a sheep and nobody suspects a thing! (Or do they?) Wolf dreams of tasty sheep--sheep sandwiches, sheep sushi, sheep tacos! In his clever sheep costume, he infiltrates the friendly neighborhood herd, blending in by helping with chores, reading bedtime stories to the lambs, and working up a sweat in sheep aerobics class. Wolf's sneaky plan works so well, he becomes part of the family. And suddenly, the sheep don't seem quite as tasty. . . . With a charming twist ending and lots of visual fun--including the running theme of Wolf's disguise not being quite as convincing as he thinks--this hilarious take on the wolf-in-sheep's-clothing will have readers howling for more.
Fly Guy and Fly Girl: Friendly Frenzy by
Fly Guy and Fly Girl have a scary SURPRIZZZE in the park! Buzz and Fly Guy see Liz and Fly Girl in the park. Up in a tree, they meet a boy named Carlos, who introduces them to his pet lizard, Annie. But where have Fly Guy and Fly Girl gone...? Featuring appealing stories and fun illustrations, Tedd Arnold's bestselling Fly Guy series is a perfect fit for beginning readers.
Hi, Jack! by
From New York Times bestselling author Mac Barnett and Geisel Award-winning illustrator Greg Pizzoli, an uproarious early reader series about a mischievous rabbit, a cranky old lady, and a lovable dog. From New York Times bestselling author Mac Barnett and Geisel Award-winning illustrator Greg Pizzoli, an uproarious early reader series about a mischievous rabbit, a cranky old lady, and a lovable dog. Meet Jack- He lives in a tree house. His interests include snacks, petty theft, and lipstick graffiti. Jack also loves his friends, he just has a funny way of showing it sometimes . . . A perfect read-aloud with snappy, rhythmic text, this series will bridge the gap between picture books and chapter books and fill the Elephant-and-Piggie-shaped hole in young readers' hearts.
A Library Book for Bear by
Curmudgeonly Bear succumbs to Mouse’s entreaties and discovers the joy of books in a hilarious story that fans will covet for their own library. Bear does not want to go to the library. He is quite sure he already has all the books he will ever need. Yet the relentlessly cheery Mouse, small and gray and bright-eyed, thinks different. When Bear reluctantly agrees to go with his friend to the big library, neither rocket ships nor wooden canoes are enough for Bear’s picky tastes. How will Mouse ever find the perfect book for Bear? Children will giggle themselves silly as Bear’s arguments give way to his inevitable curiosity, leading up to a satisfying story hour and a humorously just-right library book.
A Knight in a Fight by
Freddy is a knight. Sadly, his suit is too tight. Even with all his might, can he fight a dragon wearing a suit that's too tight? Find out in this fun and quirky story that teaches early readers lots of "ight" words! The expertly crafted text uses this rhyming pattern along with strong picture cues to help early readers get the reading practice they need.
Pete the Kitty: Ready, Set, Go-Cart! by
From New York Times bestselling author/illustrator team Kimberly and James Dean comes a new I Can Read story featuring everyone's favorite kitty, Pete the Kitty! Pete the Kitty is excited to build his very own go-cart. But things don't go as planned. Turns out, his go-cart is missing a few important things. Thankfully, Bob and Gus are there to help Pete out! Beginning readers will love reading about Pete the Kitty's fun go-cart adventure! My First I Can Read books are perfect for shared reading with a child. This My First I Can Read book is an excellent choice to share at home or in the classroom, in particular for children ages 3 to 5. It's a fun way to learn to read and as a supplement for activity books for children.
See the Cat: Three Stories about a Dog by
Winner of the 2021 Theodor Seuss Geisel Award Move over, Spot. . . . Spoofing classic primers, Max the Dog talks back to the book in a twist that will have fans of funny early readers howling. See Max. Max is not a cat--Max is a dog. But much to Max's dismay, the book keeps instructing readers to "see the cat." How can Max get through to the book that he is a DOG? In a trio of stories for beginning readers, author David LaRochelle introduces the excitable Max, who lets the book know in irresistibly emphatic dialogue that the text is not to his liking. Illustrator Mike Wohnoutka hilariously depicts the pup's reactions to the narrator and to the wacky cast of characters who upend Max's--and readers'--expectations as the three stories build to an immensely satisfying conclusion. Hooray, Max, hooray!
Let's Learn Word Families by
"In Lets Learn Word Families, emergent readers learn to rhyme, spell, and identify different word families. Carefully crafted text uses high-frequency words, repetitive sentence patterns, and strong visual references to support emergent readers, ensuring reading success by making sure they arent facing too many challenges at once. Lets Learn Word Families includes tools for teachers and caregivers as well as introductory nonfiction features such as labels, a table of contents, words to know, and an index. A Lets Review! feature poses an image and question for further comprehension. Lets Learn Word Families is part of Jump!s Fun First Concepts series"--
Get Out, Mouse! by
Simple text and repetition of the vowel blend 'ou' help readers learn how to use this sound. Also included are a word list for review, a note to parents and educators, and an introduction to the author.
Katie Blows Her Top by
Katie Woo has science on her mind. She's doing a science experiment and building her own volcano. But when her project gets out of control, Katie gets mad. Can Katie keep from blowing her top? Readers are supported with a glossary, writing prompts, and discussion questions.
Ship Trip by
It's time to read and rhyme! This book introduces young readers to the "ip" word family through a simple rhyming story. Each book features up to 10 words such as "ship," "chip," and "hip" to reinforce the sound and letter combination. The expertly crafted text uses this rhyming pattern along with strong picture cues to help early readers get the reading practice they need.
My Routine by
Sam has a morning routine. Every morning he wakes up and gets ready to go out. Where is he going every day?
Please Take Jake! by
Read the story of Blake, a young boy who always has to take his younger brother Jake along with him, while learning words in the -ake word family.
The Duck Is Stuck! by
Mike the helpful hedgehog cleans up the neighborhood in this second book in the Mike Delivers Level 1 Ready-to-Read series! Mike offers to help his friend pick up trash around the neighborhood. But when a rubber duck gets stuck in the garbage truck and trash starts to fall out and litter the town, will Mike and his friends be able to get the duck unstuck?
Monkey and Elephant and the Babysitting Adventure by
Join best friends Monkey and Elephant on their fifth and final adventure, in which they attempt to do something they've never done before: babysit! When Monkey's cousin MeeMee tells Monkey and Elephant she needs someone to watch her three babies for an afternoon, the two friends volunteer. But Monkey and Elephant don't quite know what to expect. Will babysitting be hard? Will they need some rules? Will they be any good at it? And when some old baddies show up, will the two babysitters know what to do? Beginning readers will recognize the conflicting feelings that come with trying new things even as they delight in the antics of this unlikely pair of friends.
I'm on It! (Elephant and Piggie Like Reading!) by
Goat likes to lead. Goat also likes Frog to follow. When Goat jumps on it, Frog does, too. Soon Goat and Frog are on it, along it, above it, inside it, beside it, around it, and under it--phew! How can their friendship get through it?
Guess What!? (an Unlimited Squirrels Book) by
From Mo Willems, creator of the revolutionary, award-winning, best-selling Elephant & Piggie books, comes this breakout beginning-reader series, Unlimited Squirrels. An ensemble cast of Squirrels, Acorns, and pop-in guests hosts a page-turning extravaganza. Each book features a funny, furry adventure AND bonus jokes, quirky quizzes, nutty facts, and so, so many Squirrels. In Guess What!?, Zoom Squirrel is excited to go to the beach. But what will happen when Zoomy and pals finally get there? Do you know more about going to the beach than the Squirrels do? You will by the end of this book!
Who Is the Mystery Reader? (an Unlimited Squirrels Book) by
From Mo Willems, creator of the revolutionary, award-winning, best-selling Elephant & Piggie books, comes this breakout beginning-reader series. An ensemble cast of Squirrels, Acorns, and pop-in guests host a page-turning extravaganza. Each book features a funny, furry adventure AND bonus jokes, quirky quizzes, nutty facts, and so, so many Squirrels. In Who is the Mystery Reader?, Zoom Squirrel tries out a new superpower with help from a mysterious Mystery Reader. But will the Squirrel pals ever find out who the real Mystery Reader is? Do you know more about reading than the Squirrels do? You will by the end of this book!
Anansi and the Talking Melon by 
Hansel and Gretel by
Caldecott Honor winner Rachel Isadora gives readers a stunning new interpretation of this classic Brothers Grimm fairy tale, setting the infamous witch's cottage deep in a lush African forest. Hansel and Gretel's plight feels all the more threatening as they're plunged into the thick, dark jungle of Isadora's rich collages.
Monkey and Robot by
Meet best pals Monkey & Robot. This snappy collection of stories includes their first four adventures! Monkey and Robot are friends--the best kind. They simply belong together, and it never matters that silly Monkey is furry, or that kind Robot can rust. What matters is their sharing: movies and popcorn, games of hide-and-seek, a fish tank for...a hippopotamus? Joining the ranks of such noteworthy pairs as Bert and Ernie, Frog and Toad, and Henry and Mudge, Monkey and Robot celebrate their friendship in this chapter book of four charming tales that are ideal for young readers.
More of Monkey and Robot by
Monkey and Robot are the best of friends--and they have the best of adventures! This chapter book includes four (more!) playful stories. Monkey always gets in the wildest of messes. And Robot is always there to help him out. After all, what are best friends for? "Readers looking for funny friendship stories but who think that Frog and Toad and other early readers are a tad too easy will find this unlikely duo just right," says Horn Book Magazine about the Monkey and Robot series.
How to Build an Insect by
See what the buzz is about in this fresh, fun look at insect anatomy. Let's build an insect! In the pages of this book, you'll find a workshop filled with everything you need, including a head, a thorax, an abdomen, and much more. Written by entomologist Roberta Gibson and accompanied by delightfully detailed illustrations by Anne Lambelet, this wonderfully original take on insect anatomy will spark curiosity and engage even those who didn't think they liked creepy, crawly things!
Bugs Are Insects by
Is a ladybug really a bug? Is a honeybee an insect? How about a spider? How do you know? Find out how you can tell if a beautiful butterfly or a crawling centipede is actually an insect or something else. Discover a hidden world of tiny creatures building their homes, stalking their prey, and hiding from their enemies right in your own backyard.
Insect Detective by
"Gently encourages young readers to explore their natural surroundings and observe some of the more commonly found insects in it." -- School Library Journal (starred review) Right now, all around us, thousands of insects are doing strange and wonderful things: wasps are building nests, ants are collecting food, and dragonflies are readying for the hunt. But it's not always easy to catch sight of these six-legged creatures; you have to know where to look. Guided by this book, readers will happily become insect detectives and find out just what those bugs are up to. Back matter includes an index.
Good Trick Walking Stick by
Walking sticks are among the world's most fascinating insects. And one many children can find right in their backyards! With a simple story, perfect for read-alouds, and colorful illustrations, this scientific look at a walking stick's life-cycle will captivate budding entomologists. Informative sidebars are included that let children learn even more about these wild insects.
Squirrels by
Whether they're scrambling up trees or scampering across lawns, squirrels are fun animals to watch! Beginning readers can learn about these furry backyard visitors through low-level text and bright photos in this engaging title. Features such as body part labels and food photos support young students as they practice independent reading.
Beaver and Otter Get along... Sort Of by
A lovely educational tale about how animals live in harmony and benefit their ecosystem through commensalism A family of beavers love their pond, which they've worked hard to turn from a bedraggled landscape into a thriving wetland. But when a family of otters move in and start reaping the rewards of the beavers' efforts, the only thing the beavers can do is tolerate their new neighbors as best they can. Despite the fact that the otters can be rather annoying, the two species eventually strike a balance, and in the process benefit the rich new ecosystem around them.
Foxes by 
Red Rover by
On a planet far, far away, one pioneer explores a vast frontier. Many others have come before it seeking an answer to Mars's many secrets, and the little rover is no different. It plays games. It looks for water. And it waits. . .. . .for the next one to come to Mars to explore.Join Curiosity on its journey across the red planet in this innovative and dynamic nonfiction picture book by journalist Richard Ho, illustrated by Sibert Honor winner Katherine Roy.
Dogs in Space by
Science, survival and dogs in spacesuits! Meet Belka and Strelka, two stray dogs from Moscow who, in August, 1960, changed the face of space history forever, when they became the first dogs to orbit Earth and return home safely. This beautifully illustrated nonfiction picture book includes additional information about the space race and other animals in orbit.
Perplexing Picture Puzzles by
There's more than what meets the eye in these puzzling pictures. Readers will pour over the pages of this immersive book of image-based riddles. Even reluctant readers will love engaging with these mysterious visual conundrums. Each puzzle features charming illustrations. Handy intros to each puzzle help readers get started. As they progress through each problem, readers will develop critical and creative thinking skills. They'll practice logic and reasoning. Fun and accessible, these unique puzzles will entertain readers for hours, making this a popular addition to any library or classroom.
Supersmart Puzzles by
This engaging range of different types of puzzles lets readers stretch all their problem-solving muscles. They'll develop math, language, logic, reasoning, and critical thinking skills while having a blast. This unique combination of visual, number-based, and language-based riddles will keep readers entertained for hours. Playful illustrations add charm to every problem. Helpful introductions to each problem give readers a handy starting point. Age-appropriate, accessible, and fun, this collection of engaging puzzles will be a favorite in any library or classroom.
Long, Tall Lincoln by
Abraham Lincoln didn't look like a president. He didn't always act like a president, either--he liked to wrestle with his sons and tell jokes. But he always fought for fairness, freedom, and unity. Beginning readers will learn about the milestones in Abraham Lincoln's life in this Level Two I Can Read biography, which combines a traditional, illustrated narrative with historical photographs at the back of book. Complete with a timeline, photographs, and little-known facts about the United States' sixteenth president: the long and tall Abraham Lincoln. Long, Tall Lincoln is a Level Two I Can Read, geared for kids who read on their own but still need a little help.
Noodleheads Do the Impossible by
Do you want to be famous? Mac and Mac do. How? By doing the impossible! You'll laugh out loud at the funny adventures in this comic-style book. First they decide to walk around the world. But when Mom says it's too far for them to go, they decide to count the stars. They reach a bazillion when they see that some of the stars have fallen into Mom's washtub. Mac and Mac rescue the fallen stars, but then lose count. They decide to count grains of sand instead. Then . . . while counting grains of sand, they realize THEY'VE WALKED AROUND THE WORLD!!! This sixth book in the Noodleheads graphic novel series is perfect for comic fans and reluctant readers. Short chapters--full of wordplay, jokes, and slapstick humor--follow Mac and Mac through their funny adventures. It is co-written and illustrated by Tedd Arnold, known for his popular Fly Guy series. Based on traditional world folktales and stories of fools, the Noodleheads encourage critical thinking. They invite readers to use their noodles to spot holes in the brothers' grand plans. Source notes by co-authors Martha Hamilton and Mitch Weiss, professional storytellers known as Beauty and the Beast, provide information about the traditional stories that inspired Mac and Mac's mishaps and give suggestions for further reading. This easy-to-read series, including the Geisel Honor book Noodleheads See the Future, is an accessible introduction to stories of fools, and a great next read for fans of the Fly Guy books. A Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection
Geraldine Pu and Her Lunch Box, Too! by
Meet spunky, funny, and friendly Geraldine Pu as she takes on a bully and makes a new friend in this first book in a new Level 3 Ready-to-Read Graphics series! Geraldine Pu's favorite part of school is lunch. She loves her lunch box, which she calls Biandang. She can't wait to see what her grandmother, Amah, has packed inside it each day. Then one day, Geraldine gets stinky tofu...and an unexpected surprise. What will she do? Ready-to-Read Graphics books give readers the perfect introduction to the graphic novel format with easy-to-follow panels, speech bubbles with accessible vocabulary, and sequential storytelling that is spot-on for beginning readers. There's even a how-to guide for reading graphic novels at the beginning of each book.
Frog and Ball by
A frog, a magic spell book, and one big, angry yellow ball. What could go wrong? Everything in this hilarious early reader comic. Bee Bop Tiffle Dunk! Bam Bog Boo Bop! None of the magic spells in Frog's magic spell book will work on the deflated ball he found. Frustrated, Frog kicks the ball and watches as it flies up in the air and gets bigger and bigger and then as it comes back--uh, oh! Frog tries to outrun, trick, and hide from the ball in the library but the ball always finds him--even if it means knocking down bookshelves, ruining a puppet show, and sending papers flying everywhere! Author-illustrator Kathy Caple has created a hilarious story for young readers filled with slapstick humor and a healthy dose of be careful what you wish for. With a variety of panel sizes and styles, there is much here for kids to pore over and return to again and again. I Like to Read Comics are created for kids just learning to read. Sequential art and simple text--and a powerful relationship between the two--are perfect for developing readers. A Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection
Kraken Me Up by
Izzie and her unusual pet make a big splash at the county fair in this punny easy reader comic from a beloved children's book illustrator and comics artist. Izzie can't wait to debut her pet at the county fair. While the other children have brought pigs or chickens, Izzie brought a...Kraken! Even though everyone thinks Kraken is big and frightening, he is not. He's like Izzie, sweet and shy. Kraken and Izzie use creativity and humor to win over the crowd in this hilariously adorable comic. The variety of panel styles, speech bubbles, and fonts are all perfect for engaging developing readers. I Like to Read Comics are created for kids just learning to read. Sequential art and simple text--and a powerful relationship between the two--are the perfect conditions for developing readers. A Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection
A Giant Mess by
A gigantic tyrannical toddler is out to play . . . with the whole town! A hilarious early reader from comics artist Jeffrey Ebbeler. Molly doesn't want to clean her room; she wants to play. Before Molly can argue with her mom, they hear BOOM! BOOM! A giant toddler is on the loose! Molly watches dumbfounded as Jack picks up cows and plucks airplanes out of the sky all for fun. He even picks up Molly and pretends to fly her around. Vroooom! When his giantess mother calls him home, he gleefully dumps everything and turns to leave. Now it's Molly's turn to say- "Stop! This is a giant mess!" In this easy reader comic, Jeffrey Ebbeler has created an entertaining tale about cleaning up after yourself. The variety of panel styles, speech bubbles, and fonts are all perfect for engaging developing readers. I Like to Read Comics are created for kids just learning to read. Sequential art and simple text--and a powerful relationship between the two--are the perfect conditions for developing readers.
Friendbots: Blink and Block Make a Wish by
Introducing I Can Read Comics, a brand-new early reader line that familiarizes children with the world of graphic novel storytelling and encourages visual literacy in emerging readers. Meet the robots Blink and Block in this STEM-inspired story by debut author-illustrator Vicky Fang. Blink is scanning the playground for treasure, and Block is pretty sure there's no gold to be found. Will Blink prove that treasure does exist--or will these two new pals find something even better? Friendbots: Blink and Block Make a Wish is a Level Two I Can Read Comic, an engaging story for children starting to read on their own.
Beak and Ally #1: Unlikely Friends by
Theodor Seuss Geisel Honor Award winner! "What do you get when you cross a crusty alligator and a perky bird? A surprising friendship you'll be sure to cheer for. Beak and Ally is a warm, funny winner!" --Terri Libenson, author of the New York Times bestselling Emmie & Friends series A brand-new early reader graphic novel series about finding friendship in unexpected places! This fun and funny buddy comedy is perfect for fans of Narwhal & Jelly, emerging readers, and all kids who love comics. Ally the alligator is perfectly happy being alone . . . until one day a noisy bird named Beak lands on her snout. Beak thinks Ally is lonely and needs a friend. He has all sorts of friendship goals in mind, like riding bikes together, going to the movies together, and even solving mysteries together! But when a Long-Billed Party Pooper crashes Beak's nest-warming party, Ally decides to show Beak something important to her: sticking up for what's right.
Fish and Sun by
Introducing I Can Read Comics, a new early reader line that familiarizes children with the world of graphic novel storytelling and encourages visual literacy in emerging readers. One day, a bored little fish journeys up to the surface of the ocean, where it meets the sun. A wonderful friendship blooms... Only, right in the middle of their fun, the sun starts to set! Fish and Sun is a powerful story about newfound friendship by Sergio Ruzzier. "Painted seascapes in rich colors warm the early reader comic's minimal text, and small details--Fish sleeps underwater with a small pillow--will draw laughter." (Publishers Weekly) Fish and Sun is a Level One I Can Read Comic, a simple story for shared reading. Junior Library Guild Selection