Best of
1st-Grade

2019

A Boy Like You


Frank Murphy - 2019
    A Boy Like You encourages every boy to embrace all the things that make him unique, to be brave and ask for help, to tell his own story and listen to the stories of those around him. In an age when boys are expected to fit into a particular mold, this book celebrates all the wonderful ways to be a boy.

The Legend of the Kestrel


Peter Wacht - 2019
     The prophecy spoke of Thomas Kestrel: outcast, lord, sorcerer, warrior, and perhaps savior of the Kingdoms — if he survives. In The Legend of the Kestrel, the first book in The Sylvan Chronicles, Thomas escapes the Shadow Lord’s assassins as a young boy and begins to master the Talent and the ways of the blade, acquiring the skills he’ll need to survive in a world of magic and constant danger. As his skill in the Talent grows and he learns the ways of the Sylvana, men and women dedicated to protecting the Kingdoms from the Shadow Lord and the Dark Horde, he bears the burden of having to return to the Highlands to reclaim his proper place. He befriends a Highlander who would die for him, struggles with his love for a princess with a mind of her own who will betray him, and tries to piece together the puzzle of his life — while the High King’s assassins, aided by the minions of the Shadow Lord, pursue him. Thomas discovers that not only must he stand against a High King bent on conquering the Kingdoms, but also the Shadow Lord, a creature of ancient evil who threatens to unleash a time of darkness and sorrow on the land. Thomas is torn by his desire to lead his own life and his duty to a people who view him with suspicion and fear. He knows that doing the right thing will only push him farther away from the life he wants for himself — and closer to his own death. Does he have the inner strength to accept his fate and free a people that never had any use for him? Can he prevent the Dark Horde from descending on the Kingdoms and extinguishing the light forever? Does he have the courage and skill to stand against the Shadow Lord?

Return of the Dwarf King


Charley Case - 2019
    A missing friend. A whole new world of magical artifacts for the taking. A cosmic vacation for our intrepid treasure hunter. After years of searching Finn has finally found the motherload. Unfortunately, there’s no way to get it home. And he’s got to meet John Wayne.Stranded and alone in Denver, Colorado, Finn and his partner Penny (a foot and a half long Faerie Dragon) search for friends and allies in this strange new land. But something about this place isn’t right. Magic has gone underground, and has anyone seen John Wayne? Lucky for Finn he’s a Dwarf, and underground is where he does his best work.Join Finn, Penny and their new friends on an adventure that spans the globe and holds the fate of an entire planet in its twists and turns. And just maybe a tall Dwarf and a small dragon can find their place in the universe. Click the Buy Now button and read it today.

Clark the Shark: Too Many Treats


Bruce Hale - 2019
    But when Clark decides to taste just one, the impulsive shark can’t stop eating! Yum-yum-YUM. Will the class treat be ruined?With easy-to-read text and Clark’s trademark rhymes, this chocolaty Level One tale will have beginning readers ready to take a bite out of reading! Also included are Clark the Shark’s Bite-Sized Facts, real facts on shark communication, behavior, and more!Clark the Shark: Too Many Treats is a Level One I Can Read, which means it’s perfect for children learning to sound out words and sentences.

The Dinky Donkey


Craig Smith - 2019
    Hee Haw! The laugh-out-loud follow-up to the viral sensation The Wonky Donkey is finally here! Featuring playful verses by Craig Smith and charming illustrations by Katz Cowley, The Dinky Donkey follows the same formula that made its predecessor a worldwide hit. Readers will love the antics of this stinky punky plinky-plonky winky-tinky pinky funky blinky dinky donkey!

Please Don't Eat Me


Liz Climo - 2019
    This witty and poignant exploration of predator and prey will have children and parents alike roaring with laughter--and looking for their next meal.

Steel Dragon


Kevin McLaughlin - 2019
    Their claws are into every aspect of human life, from government to industry. But Kristen Hall is about to throw a wrench into all of that. Because she’s a dragon, too. She just doesn’t know it…yet! A dragon raised by humans, in the human world. After graduating from the police academy, she’s dropped right into the ranks of Detroit’s elite SWAT team. A rookie, in SWAT? Unheard of. But what the dragons want, they get. The reasons behind their machinations become clear as her dragon powers begin to surface. Will Kristen rise to the challenges her new life delivers? What designs do the dragons have for her future? And perhaps most pressing of all — how did she come to be a dragon with human parents?

Once Upon a Goat


Dan Richards - 2019
    They’d prefer a boy, with glowing skin, bright eyes, and two roses for lips…but any kid will do. When they find themselves gifted with a baby goat (also known as a kid) instead, they can’t imagine how he’ll fit into their lives.

When Charley Met Emma


Amy Webb - 2019
    But after he and Emma start talking, he learns that different isn't bad, sad, or strange--different is just different, and different is great!This delightful book will help kids think about disability, kindness, and how to behave when they meet someone who is different from them.

No Fish For Charles


Tracy Detz - 2019
    With dreams of fried fish for dinner, he decides to skip school one day to try his luck and cast his reel. But when Charles encounters a school of clever fish and his outing suddenly becomes anything but chill, he realizes that going to school is always the smartest option.

The First Human Rider


Ramy Vance - 2019
    They need a new hero to step up and turn the tide. Myrddin, the resistance’s leader, thinks he might have found that someone…on Earth, of all places. Word has just come from the east that the Dark One is launching his largest assault yet, but there is still time to stop him. If, that is, they can find someone good enough to take him on.  Alex Bound just might be the rider they need. But a human has never been accepted as a Dragonrider.  Let alone a blind human... Alex isn’t someone to step away from a fight.  Not now, not ever, and she has no plans to start—even if she needs to ride a real dragon to make it happen. Go up and click Read Now or Download for Free and find out what happens when you cross a desperate wizard, and a willing fighter accepting the call to be the best when she is needed the most.

Maybe I Can Love My Neighbor Too


Jennifer Grant - 2019
    With help from her mama, the girl discovers that all it takes is a little kindness and creativity to show love to neighbors near and far.

Snow Place Like Home


Christina Soontornvat - 2019
    She lives in a massive palace in the clouds. Everyone in her family has the power to control the wind and weather. On a good day, she can even fly! She loves making lemons into lemon ice, riding wind gusts around the sky, and turning her bedroom into a real life snow globe.There's just one thing Lina wants: to go to regular, non-magical school with her best friend Claudia. She promises to keep the icy family secret under wraps. What could go wrong? (EVERYTHING!)

I'm a Narwhal


Mallory Loehr - 2019
    With lots of endearing and interesting information and bright illustrations, young readers will be eager to jump into this underwater adventure time and time again!

Great Job, Dad!


Holman Wang - 2019
    . . When Dad gets home from his day job at the office, he never knows which job will be waiting for him, but he knows it'll be fun!Each rhyming spread features intimate, familiar, comforting and humorous depictions of family life through a wholly original -- and amazing! -- needle-felted lens.

The Love Letter


Anika Aldamuy Denise - 2019
    One day, they each find a letter. But not just any letter...A love letter. My word!            My whiskers!                        Aww, nuts!Someone loves them. But who? The answer may surprise you!Celebrated author Anika Aldamuy Denise and beloved illustrator Lucy Ruth Cummins deliver this heartwarming tale about a wonderful mix-up that reminds us of the joys of friendship.Makes for a perfect Valentine’s Day gift, or for any time you want to tell someone in your life how much you love them!

Lights Out, Leonard


Josh Pyke - 2019
    It seems like Leonard will never sleep again ... until he discovers a mysterious book called How to Frighten Monsters.

I See Sea Food: Sea Creatures That Look Like Food


Jenna Grodzicki - 2019
    The nonfiction photo book explores weird and wonderful sea creatures, from the chocolate chip sea star to the pineapplefish.

Ruby, Head High: Ruby Bridges' First Day of School


Irène Cohen-Janca - 2019
    Inspired by an iconic Norman Rockwell painting and translated from an original French text, this is a story about the day a little girl held her head high and changed the world.

A Kite for Moon


Jane Yolen - 2019
    Y. Stemple, tells a heartfelt story about a young boy's fascination and unlikely friendship with the moon. With whimsical illustrations by award-winning artist Matt Phelan, the story begins when the little boy, who is flying his kite, notices a sad Moon. He sends up kites to her, even writing notes to Moon promising he will come see her someday. This promise propels him through years and years of studying, learning, and training to be an astronaut! Dedicated to Neil Armstrong, and a perfect children's book to help celebrate the 50th anniversary of the first United States moon landing, the cover of this book will captivate readers with eye-catching spot UV, foil, and embossing.

The Queen's Executioner


Christopher Mitchell - 2019
    Hunted by the Rahain, her capture could lead to the death of thousands.Laodoc is a politician who loves his country but has grown to hate many of its ancient traditions. He risks losing his family, his career and his liberty to fight for what he believes in.Battle Mage Daphne Holdfast is on the run. Working in Rahain as a killer for hire, she is biding her time until she can clear her name and return home, when a chance meeting with Killop changes everything.When half a million migrants arrive at the Rahain border with a newly crowned Queen and her Dark Mage sister, there will only be one winner - and the Magelands will never be the same again.

The Don't Worry Book


Todd Parr - 2019
     Todd Parr brings his trademark bright colors and bold lines to his new book about things that might make kids worry--from loud news, to loud neighbors, or a big day at school. With his signature humor and instantly recognizable style, Todd speaks out to kids who are feeling the weight of their world, offering solutions and comfort, as well as giggles.

Little Juniper Makes It Big


Aidan Cassie - 2019
    And her heart is dead-set on growing up and getting taller. She's tired of having to reach for the cookie jar or use a stepping stool for the toilet. Everything in Juniper's world seems to be made for adults. Ugh!Juniper is industrious, however, and builds several silly contraptions to help reach her goals. But it isn't until she makes a fun new friend at school, Clove, who is even smaller than Juniper, that she is able to see her world from a new perspective--and appreciate all sizes, big or small.

The Christmas Tree Wish


Karen Inglis - 2019
    

The Runaway Pea


Kjartan Poskitt - 2019
    . . Poskitt’s lively rhyming verse as the pea plops, splashes, bangs and twangs his way across the kitchen' – The Observer

Challenge of Steel


James David Victor - 2019
     A Science Fiction adventure from Amazon All-Star author James David Victor Anders Corsigon has spent his life bringing galactic criminals to justice. When a bizarre murder turns into a string of assassinations, he must find a killer who is protected by the highest levels of the empire. In a world where advanced genetic engineering can literally rewrite humanity, he must uncover a truth that could destroy the galaxy. Challenge of Steel is the first book in the Memories of Earth space opera series. If you enjoy stories in fantastic worlds of aliens, space travel, and genetic engineering, the Memories of Earth series will be right up your alley.

Idriss and His Marble


René Gouichoux - 2019
    He clutches his lucky charm--a single marble--throughout their journey, walking over hazardous terrain, crawling under barbed wire, and sailing on a fragile little boat. Will the marble's luck help them avoid capture and bring them to the safety of a new world? A heartfelt tale exploring the perilous path refugees often walk to find a new home and the hope it takes to get them there.-- "Journal"

Bea's Bees


Katherine Pryor - 2019
    When her bees mysteriously disappear, Bea hatches a plan to bring them back. Can Bea inspire her school and community to save the bees? Bees provide us with valuable resources, and some types of bees are in danger of disappearing forever. But ordinary people (and kids!) can help save them. Filled with fascinating facts about bumblebees and ideas to help preserve their environment, BEA'S BEES encourages kids to help protect bees and other pollinators.

Which One Doesn't Belong?: Playing with Shapes


Christopher Danielson - 2019
    Children and their parents answer the same question about each set of four shapes: "Which one doesn't belong?" There's no one right answer--the important thing is to have a reason why. Kids might describe the shapes as squished, smooshed, dented, or even goofy. But when they justify their thinking, they're talking math! Winner of the Mathical Book Prize for books that inspire children to see math all around them."This is one shape book that will both challenge readers' thinking and encourage them to think outside the box."--Kirkus Reviews, STARRED review

On the Internet: Our First Talk about Online Safety


Jillian Roberts - 2019
    Using real-world examples set within the context of a child who is using the Internet for the first time and watching an older sibling interact with social media, Dr. Roberts takes readers through several common scenarios around parental supervision, online bullying and anonymity. She also includes examples of people who use the Internet to make the world a better place. On the Internet addresses common safety concerns in a child-centered way and offers easy-to-understand rationales as to why it's important to maintain boundaries online just as in real life.The World Around Us series introduces children to complex cultural, social and environmental issues that they may encounter outside their homes, in an accessible way. Sidebars offer further reading for older children or care providers who have bigger questions. For younger children just starting to make these observations, the simple question-and-answer format of the main text will provide a foundation of knowledge on the subject matter.

The Balcony


Melissa Castrillón - 2019
    When your heart is open, the world is full of possibilities.

The Good and the Beautiful Level One Reader


Jenny Phillips - 2019
    Beautiful, diverse illustrations, as well as new and revised stories, are incorporated into the Level 1 Reader which is now an integrated part of the course. Phonics, Reading, & SpellingGrammar & PunctuationLiterature & WritingArt Appreciation

Truth or Lie: Sharks!


Erica S. Perl - 2019
    Though this engaging early reader is 100% fun, 25% of it is FALSE! In a unique question-and-answer format, proficient readers are quizzed about their favorite ocean predators to see if they can separate facts from "lies." The book's mascot--the Truth Sleuth--guides readers through this funny and fact-packed Step 3 Reader, filled with photos of sharks in action, as well as kid-appealing art and humor.Step 3 Readers feature engaging characters in easy-to-follow plots about popular topics, for children who are ready to read on their own.

The Good and the Beautiful Language Arts & Literature Level K Course Book


Jenny Phillips - 2019
    You will also find more varied activities, poetry, memorization, and spelling in the lessons and a greater focus on independent work, literature, and reading, all without adding more time to the lessons.Phonics and ReadingSpellingGrammar and PunctuationLiterature & Art

Moon's First Friends: One Giant Leap for Friendship


Susanna Leonard Hill - 2019
    Dinosaurs roam, pyramids are built, and boats are made, but still no one comes. The Moon can't help but wonder…will friends ever come visit her? Until one day a spaceship soars from Earth...and so does her heart.Learn about the spaceflight that first landed humans on the moon through this heartwarming story about friendship! Filled with adorable illustrations and charming text, this moon book for kids is a must-have for parents and teachers alike searching for new preschool solar system books and astronaut books for toddlers.Why readers love Moon's First Friends:An educational and heartwarming story about the first moon landing told from the unique perspective of the Moon itself!Educational back matter includes out-of-this world facts about the moon, space flight, and the individuals who made the mission possibleA scannable QR code allows readers to listen to the exciting countdown to Apollo 11's liftoff

Fair Shares


Pippa Goodhart - 2019
    Hare finds three chairs but is it fair that Hare has two chairs and Bear only one? When they have the same, Hare still can’t reach the pears! So a little friend teaches them that fair isn’t always everyone getting the same thing....with hilarious results!A beautifully simple picture book that considers, what is fair? The answer is not always as simple as you’d think!

Seven Ruff-Ruff Rescues! (Paw Patrol)


Random House - 2019
    Rhymes and rhythmic text paired with picture clues help children decode the story. Step 1 is for children who know the alphabet and are eager to begin reading.Step 2 Readers use basic vocabulary and short sentences to tell simple stories. Step 2 is for children who recognize familiar words and can sound out new words with help.

Lasting Love


Caroline Wright - 2019
    The feeling of loss can come so early as the person becomes more difficult to recognize. It's a hard thing for anyone to understand, and especially so for a child. This book offers a helpful visualization of a sick person's essence as a friendly creature who remains strong and warm, even as the illness progresses. The creature is always around and never tries to cheer the child up, but only serves to keep them company.Caroline Wright and Willow Heath clearly understand that, like the creature, a book cannot "fix" a painful situation or even make it a little better. Instead they simply reflect the pain of loss back to the reader and help them understand that they are not alone.

Follow Chester!: A College Football Team Fights Racism and Makes History


Gloria Respress-Churchwell - 2019
    This historical fiction picture book frames a turbulent time in the civil rights era with the clever use of a football play to show race relations and teamwork. Inspired by a true story, capturing a historic defense against the Jim Crow laws of the South.

The Good and the Beautiful Language Arts & Literature Level One Course Book


Jenny Phillips - 2019
    Beautiful, diverse illustrations, as well as new and revised stories, are incorporated into the Level 1 Reader which is now an integrated part of the course. Phonics, Reading, & SpellingGrammar & PunctuationLiterature & WritingArt Appreciation

Under Our Clothes: Our First Talk about Our Bodies


Jillian Roberts - 2019
    Jillian Roberts introduces children to the topics of bodies, body safety and body image through a conversation-based story that begins with an observation at the community pool. Modesty, privacy and boundaries are discussed, along with how self-image is formed and how some people are more sensitive than others--sometimes at different stages in their lives. Relevant themes around body shaming, body positivity and self-esteem building are explored, with a final call to action empowering children to build their own confidence and speak up when something doesn't feel right.The World Around Us series introduces children to complex cultural, social and environmental issues that they may encounter outside the comfort of their homes, in a way that is straightforward and accessible. Sidebars offer further reading for older children who have bigger questions or care providers looking for more information. For younger children, the simple question-and-answer format of the main text will provide a foundation of knowledge on the subject matter.This is the newest title in The World Around Us series, following books that address poverty, tragedy, prejudice and online awareness and environmental stewardship.

You are Not an Otter: The Story of How Kids Become Adventurous Eaters


Melanie Potock - 2019
    Do YOU carry a rock, dip and drizzle or gather in the jungle to eat with your family? No, you are not an otter, nor a flamingo and most definitely not a gorilla. But there is one thing you can do that other creatures can't. Find out what makes children so special in this creative book on how kids learn to become adventurous eaters. Parents will benefit from the expert tips on how to encourage children to try new foods and the importance of pretend play in early childhood. Written by the award-winning author, Melanie Potock, with whimsical illustrations from StacyMooreStudios.com, You are Not an Otter will turn even the pickiest eaters into food explorers! Professional tips from pediatric feeding expert Melanie Potock, MA, CCC-SLP include how to: Use pretend-play to encourage kids to try new foods Teach kids to be ok if something doesn't taste good, at first! Spark conversations about healthy eating Help kids come to the table hungry and ready to try new foods Encourage kids to eat mindfully For more award-winning & creative books by Melanie Potock, visit Melanie's author page or www.MelaniePotock.com.

Up and Down Mom


Summer Macon - 2019
    At times, she is excited and full of energy, but at others, she is tired and withdrawn. But she's always my mom, and we're sharing the ride. For children who grow up in the care of a parent who has bipolar disorder, life can be filled with anxiety and uncertainty. With the aid of a clear and simple information spread, this story helps us to understand the causes of bipolar disorder and how we can learn to live with someone who has it. Developed in close consultation with families who have a parent with bipolar disorder, and created in collaboration with the Wellcome Trust.

A Sea Otter to the Rescue: Ready-to-Read Level 2


Thea Feldman - 2019
    She taught them how to look for crabs and open clam shells. She also inspired a state law to protect the endangered species.

Goldilocks for Dinner: A Funny Book About Manners


Susan Montanari - 2019
    Children are smelly and rude! Goblin has an idea: they'll find the rudest child of all and have it for dinner! Filled with a cast of familiar storytime characters like Goldilocks and the Three Bears, here's a fresh read-aloud with the feel of a classic fairy tale. Chock-full of rude characters and sly humor, and with a twist ending, this surprising story is sure to leave kids roaring with laughter.

Lawrence in the Fall


Matthew Farina - 2019
    Lawrence is scared at first, but as he grows comfortable in the forest, he starts to recognize its magic, and how beautiful and unique each tree and leaf is, allowing him to gather a splendid, one-of-a-kind collection of his own!

There's Only One You


Kathryn Heling - 2019
    . . you. “A picture-book celebration of individuality and diversity. . . . Affirming and welcome.” —Kirkus“In all the world over, this much is true: You’re somebody special. There’s only one YOU.”  This feel-good book reassures kids that, whoever and whatever they are, it’s awesome being YOU! Expertly written to include all kinds of children and families, it embraces the beauty in a range of physical types, personalities, and abilities. Kids will love discovering and recognizing themselves in these pages—and they’ll feel proud to see their special qualities acknowledged. Adorable illustrations by Rosie Butcher show a diverse community that many will find similar to their own.

60 Ready-to-Use Coding Projects


Ellyssa Kroski - 2019
    And you don't even need to be a techie to make it happen; in fact, many activities in this new book from tech champion Kroski dispense with a screen altogether in favor of twister boards, masking tape grids, or bowling pins. Other activities are built around affordable software or tech toys like Scratch Jr., Scratch, Bee-Bot, or Code-a-Pillar. Organized by age group, and complete with step-by-step guidance on everything from learning outcomes to an estimated budget, projects includeteaching coding to preschoolers with beads, pipe cleaners, and elastic string; choreographing music videos with Ozobots; programming Mad Libs-style games using Python; teaching algorithms with story mapping, pattern play, or mazes; using Scratch for digital dress-up or meme remixes; team-building and outreach with robots; drop-in programs for exploration and unstructured play; and teaching adults with Lynda.com or Meetup partners. This book's structured presentation will help both school librarians and programming staff at public libraries quickly scan for projects that fit their needs.

I Am Polar Bear


J. Patrick Lewis - 2019
    It is Sailor of the Icebergs, Whale's Curse, Seal's Dread. It is the animal deserving of great respect, the Ever-wandering One, the Master of Helping Spirits, Grandfather, or God's Dog. Whatever its name, what is certain is that this majestic, Arctic animal is threatened by extinction and in need of human protection before it disappears from our world forever.

Let's Explore Earning Money


Laura Hamilton Waxman - 2019
    Critical thinking questions encourage readers to think further about how people earn money.

A Frog's Dangerous Home


Mary Ellen Klukow - 2019
    A yellow-legged mountain frog wakes from hibernation is on the hunt for a meal and a mate. Pollution, invasive fish, and a deadly fungus make his day dangerous. Will he survive until he can find a mate? This narrative nonfiction title includes a range map, notes on how to help frogs and other amphibians, further resources, and a glossary.

They, She, He Easy as ABC


Maya Gonzalez - 2019
    It’s easy. It’s fundamental. As the dance begins the kids proclaim, “No one left out and everyone free,” in a sing-song rhyme about inclusion. This sets the stage for readers to meet 26 kids showing us their dance moves.“Ari loves to arabesque. They hold their pose with ease. Brody is a break dancer. Brody loves to freeze.”Fast-paced rhyming keeps the flow of text upbeat and rhythmic, and naturally models how to use a wide range of pronouns. There’s no room for stereotypes on THIS dance floor with spirited imagery that keeps names, clothes, hair and behavior fresh and diverse. The combination creates a playful and effortless practice to expand ideas about gender while learning the alphabet and makes being inclusive as easy as A-B-C.This book continues the work started in They She He Me: Free to Be!, also by Maya & Matthew, and what School Library Journal called “a gorgeous and much-needed picture book about pronouns and gender fluidity.” Both books provide a way to build on gender inclusive practices, and help interrupt the formalization of gender stereotypes and assumptions.

The Big Little Thing


Beatrice Alemagna - 2019
    It brushed passed someone in the street. It weaves its way in and out of people on the street. It catches people completely unawares. But what is this It? They call It . . . happiness!   In this outstanding book, award-winning illustrator and author Beatrice Alemagna captures the pure pleasure of embracing the small things in life. Following in the footsteps of A Lion in Paris, the striking and poignant illustrations bring this sensitive story to life.

Stay Through the Storm


Joanna Rowland - 2019
    They shield each other through the rain, make a fort inside, and play games between claps of thunder. Through it all, they come back to a consistent plea: Stay. Stay through the storm.A story to bring hope in times of trouble, Stay Through the Storm is a moving reminder that we're never alone even when things seem darkest.