But when his world suddenly interlocks with an eccentric, bookish girl and a bitter old man who runs a toy booth in the station, Hugo's undercover life, and his most precious secret, are put in jeopardy. A cryptic drawing, a treasured notebook, a stolen key, a mechanical man, and a hidden message from Hugo's dead father form the backbone of this intricate, tender, and spellbinding mystery.

    She knows the two children in it are her mother, Claire, and her aunt Dulcie. But who’s the third person, the one who’s been torn out of the picture?Ali figures she’ll find out while she’s vacationing in Maine with Dulcie and her four-year-old daughter, Emma, in the house where Ali’s mother’s family used to spend summers. All hopes for relaxation are quashed shortly after their arrival, though, when the girls meet Sissy, a kid who’s mean and spiteful and a bad influence on Emma.Strangest of all, Sissy keeps talking about a girl named Teresa who drowned under mysterious circumstances back when Claire and Dulcie were kids, and whose body was never found. At first Ali thinks Sissy’s just trying to scare her with a ghost story, but soon she discovers the real reason why Sissy is so angry. . . . Mary Downing Hahn is at her chilling best in this new supernatural tale that’s certain to send shivers down her readers’ spines.

    Now Mary has the opportunity to attend the Iowa College for the Blind, where she will get a fresh start with her education and can learn the skills she needs for an independent future as well.It seems like a dream come true. But it also means leaving her cherished family behind in Dakota Territory, including her sister Laura. Laura's feisty personality has always complemented Mary's quiet nature, and ever since Mary lost her sight, Laura has served as Mary's "eyes" to the world. Now that she's on her own, Mary must learn to get along without her beloved sister, and in the process realizes that she may have a bit of Laura's spunk in her after all.For the first time, readers will get a glimpse into the life of Mary Ingalls and will discover a whole new side of this Little House sister they've gotten to know through Laura Ingalls Wilder's classic Little House books.

    Readers will love the enchanting and humorous adventures of a wizard apprentice and his quest to become an ExtraOrdinary Wizard. New York Times Bestselling Series“A fresh take on the world of magic.”—Child magazine“Readers will be indubitably hooked—worrying, laughing, and gasping over the nonstop adventures of this engaging troupe.” — VOYA (Starred Review)The series follows Septimus Heap, who, as a seventh son of a seventh son, has magical powers. After he becomes the apprentice of the ExtraOrdinary Wizard Marcia Overstrand, he starts his studies for seven years and a day to become an Ordinary Wizard (or maybe an ExtraOrdinary?). His adventures take place in a fictional world full of secrets and mysteries, a world where rats are messengers and can speak, a world where spells are common and where the dark forces are trying to penetrate.

    (And you, dear reader, can test your wits right alongside them.) But in the end just four very special children will succeed. Their challenge: to go on a secret mission that only the most intelligent and resourceful children could complete. To accomplish it they will have to go undercover at the Learning Institute for the Very Enlightened, where the only rule is that there are no rules. As our heroes face physical and mental trials beyond their wildest imaginations, they have no choice but to turn to each other for support. But with their newfound friendship at stake, will they be able to pass the most important test of all?This tenth anniversary edition of The Mysterious Benedict Society includes over thirty pages of bonus materials that will delight old and new fans alike.

    But Jenny has another reason to feel confident. She'll have her best friend, Addie Wilson, right there by her side.When Jenny and Addie meet at their lockers the next morning, Jenny finds out that Addie has other plans--and they don't include her. Could Addie really be ditching her for The Pops--the coolest seventh graders in the school?

    She creates a secret safe haven and an innovative point system (giving herself points for every bad thing her mother says to her); finds comfort and inspiration from Anne Frank, The Diary of a Young Girl; and gains a support team. Ultimately, Hope is able to confront her mother about her hurtful words and help her begin to change.

    A puzzling photograph, a box filled with faded toy horses, and a single fractured memory are all that Maya has left of her mother. In Grandmother house, she lives like a captive, tethered by rules... until a shocking event changes everything. A world away, in the rugged Wyoming wilderness, a wild mustang called Artemisia runs free, belonging only to the stars. In a land where mountain lions pose an ever-present threat, she must vigilantly defend her foal... until a devastating act separates them from their band. Like a braided rein, Maya's and Artemisia's lives will ultimately intertwine.

    Join her as she splashes in the sea, prepares for a party, sells oranges, and hopes to see sweet, sweet snow.

    Inside you’ll learn all about Nancy’s favorite mysteries, meet the creators of Nancy Drew, and see the art from the 77-year history of the series. With interactive elements on each spread, and a behind-the-scenes look at the world of Nancy Drew, this keepsake book will be cherished for years to come!

    Lemony Snicket is an alleged children’s author. For the first time in literary history, these two elements are combined in one book. People who are interested in either or both of these things will find this book so enjoyable it will feel as if Hanukah is being celebrated for several years, rather than eight nights.

    "I was howling with laughter!" --Jeff CrosbyDo you dread sitting down with a book? We do, too. That's why we wrote this--a book for kids who don't like to read. If someone's bugging you to open a book, grab this one. Once you start flipping through the pages, you'll probably start laughing. Things always seem to go by faster when you're laughing. In this book, you'll find out how the Bacon brothers get through their 20-minute reading requirement without really reading. Tips range from practical (bathroom reading), to gross (bloody noses), to outrageous (man-eating monsters). You'll also learn what to do when someone makes you read on vacation and how to deal with the kids in your class who actually like to read. This book is full of easy words. And if you come across a word you don't know, you can just skip it. Really, you won't miss any of the good parts. We know, sitting down with any book, including this one, isn't the same as playing outside, or singing, or building a pillow fort, or even washing the car. But if you have to read, you may as well pick a book written by people who feel the same way you do. Try it. Pretty soon you may be surprised you've actually finished a book!

    Everything has its place in the library and Melvin likes it that way. And his favorite people—Marge, Betty, and Leola—are always in their place, behind the reference desk. When a subject interests Melvin, his librarian friends help him find lots and lots of books on the subject. When he collects creepy bugs in a jar, they help him identify, classify and catalog the insects. When he is cast as an Enormous Eggplant in the school play Betty reads aloud from Organic Gardening Magazine to help him find his motivation. As the years pass, Melvin can always find the answers to his questions and a lot of fun in the library. Then one day he goes off to college to learn new things and read new books. Will he leave the library and his friends behind forever? Readers will enjoy Brad Sneed's delightful illustrations that colorfully capture the fun-loving spirit of Carla Morris's story about the contagious enthusiasm of learning.

    When her mom started telling everyone about the messages aliens were sending through a mole on the back of her neck? Maybe on Christmas Eve, when huge, bizarre spaceships descended on the Earth and the aliens – called Boov – abducted her mother? Or when the Boov declared Earth a colony, renamed it “Smekland” (in honor of glorious Captain Smek), and forced all Americans to relocate to Florida via rocketpod?In any case, Gratuity’s story is much, much bigger than the assignment. It involves her unlikely friendship with a renegade Boov mechanic named J.Lo.; a futile journey south to find Gratuity’s mother at the Happy Mouse Kingdom; a cross-country road trip in a hovercar called Slushious; and an outrageous plan to save the Earth from yet another alien invasion.Fully illustrated with “photos,” drawings, newspaper clippings, and comics sequences, this is a hilarious, perceptive, genre-bending novel by a remarkable new talent.

    No puzzle is ever too tricky for the two of them to solve . . .Ottoline lives in a stylish apartment in Big City with a small hairy creature called Mr Munroe. Together they look after the Brown family's eclectic collections - and dabble in a spot of detective work. So they are the first to the scene of the crime when a string of high society dog-nappings and jewel thefts hits Big City. Ottoline (who luckily has a diploma from the Who-R-U Academy of Disguise) and Mr Munroe go undercover - and expose an ingenious scam masterminded by furry feline crook, the Yellow Cat.

    Think you've spotted one? Lift one of ten gatefolds to find out. A full page of fascinating information accompanies each animal so readers can learn how nature's camouflage serves hunter and hunted alike. Why do fawns have spots during their first year of life? How did killdeer birds get their name? What makes a crab spider so good at ambushing its prey? Recipient of the 2008 American Association for the Advancement of Science/Subaru Science Book and Films Prize for Excellence in Science Books.Named a 2008 Outstanding Science Trade Books for Students K-12 by the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) and the Children's Book Council (CBC)Editor's Choice, 2007— Booklist magazineListed in "Lasting Connections of 2007," an annual roundup of the year's best books to tie into curriculum.-Book Links magazine

    But unfortunately, so are the Hagbarts - and they're out for revenge. Matthew Buckley and his brothers may have won a single small battle over the summer, but the war is far from over. Luckily, thought the Hagbarts may be meaner, the Buckleys are smarter - or were smarter. The sight of Matthew's underwear at the top of the school flagpole loudly states that the Hagbart bullies are getting help from someone quite clever.Soon the war of wits escalates to an incredible scheme designed to get the ultimate revenge on the Hagbarts. But now that Matthew has been learning that he's supposed to do good to those who hate him, what will he do when a little push becomes a great big shove?Take a hilarious trip back to school in this delightful adventure with a message of forgiveness that will echo long after the last page has been turned.

    Follow the winning foursome through the seasons as they sail the river, get lost in the Wild Wood, take off on a merry adventure in Toad's colorful carriage, and rescue Toad Hall from a band of nasty marauding weasels.

    Late at night, monkeys are scaling the walls and searching the neighborhood—but what are they looking for? Noah, his sister Megan, and their best friends, Richie and Ella, live next door to the zoo. Megan is the first to notice the puzzling behavior of some of the animals. One day Megan disappears, and her brother and their friends realize it's up to them to find her. Their only choice is to follow a series of clues and sneak into the zoo. But once inside, will they discover there's much more to the Clarksville City Zoo than they could ever have guessed?

    Legend says the walls were built to keep out an unnamed evil that lurks in the forests and The Dark Hills. But what exactly are the townspeople afraid of? As Alexa begins to unravel the truth, she discovers a strange enchantment-and exposes a danger that could destroy everything she holds dear. Weaving magic and heroism into a classic tale of good and evil, this extraordinary trilogy takes readers on an unforgettable adventure!

    Join Little Critter as he helps his grandparents milk the cows, pick blueberries, and bake a pie for the contest at the Country Fair. There are many delicious pies in the contest, but Little Critter's pie has a secret ingredient that is sure to make it a favorite!

    Paolo has finally realised he must reveal the truth.

    Bubbly, stylish, and super-friendly, she's the fashion queen at her Texas school. But when her father's job moves the family to cold, snowy Maine, Cassie's in for a huge culture shock. At her new prep school, the students are prim and proper, and worst of all, they don't find Cassie as fabulous as she knows she is! Then Cassie comes up with a brilliant idea for the school fundraiser. If she can pull it off, she may just become Miss Popularity again . . . but if not, is she doomed to remain friendless forever?

    It hasn’t snowed on Christmas in Virginia in more than a hundred years, however, so what are the chances that that will change? Enter the new mailman, Mr. Jack Frost, who not only looks like a jolly old elf but also seems to know a lot about weather patterns, has a fondness for the cold, and works looooooong hours during the holiday season. Plus it’s the best time of the year, when strange packages and lots of surprises are swirling around, so isn’t it possible that Stink might get his wish? Fans who curl up with this new Moody comedy can be sure that their bellies will shake like a bowl full of jelly.

    Extra bonus material includes biographies of the author and illustrators, the story of how the stories came to be, plus a special bonus: never-before-published Robert Munsch poems, also illustrated by Michael Martchenko.

    . . of her aunt, uncle, three annoying cousins, and her baby brother, Ben-Ben. Sentenced to a week-long camping trip with them while her parents are out of town, Ellie is absolutely, positively determined to hate every single minute of the experience. Thank goodness she at least has her sketch journal, in which she records all the excruciating (and okay, very funny) details. Mosquito bites and trips to the Fred Moose museum she can handle. But how will she keep her journal from falling into Er-ick the Enemy's hands? And what will happen when—gasp—she actually starts having fun? Part graphic novel, part confessional journal, part wilderness survival guide, Ellie's story is a treat for young campers, vacationers, or anyone looking for a great summer read.

    But when a handsome prince rescues her and brings her back to civilization, Barbie¨ isn't sure she fits in - especially with the prim & proper queen! Will Barbie¨ choose true love - or will she return to the land of animals? Girls will enjoy reading this beautifully illustrated hardcover storybook based on the ninth Barbie direct-to-DVD movie.

    That's what makes Mastering the Grill a standout on the cookbook shelf. From equipment (grill types and tools) to fire (wood, charcoal, or gas) to ingredients (meat, poultry, fish, and vegetables), the authors have shared their impressive grilling know-how to explain the whys and the howsand guarantee the wowsclearly and comprehensively. In addition to hundreds of tips and techniques, this ultimate guide is packed with how-to illustrations and mouthwatering photographs plus 350 surefire recipeseverything from rubs and marinades to appetizers, entrees, side dishes, and desserts. Mastering the Grill is a master class in cooking, destined to become a sauce-stained, well-thumbed classic.

    Jump-start a Judy Moody collection! A new boxed set makes it easy to keep track of her many hilarious moods.The first six Judy Moody adventures in one complete set.JUDY MOODYJUDY MOODY GETS FAMOUS!JUDY MOODY SAVES THE WORLD!JUDY MOODY PREDICTS THE FUTUREJUDY MOODY, M.D.: THE DOCTOR IS IN!JUDY MOODY DECLARES INDEPENDENCE

    Filled with friendly, industrious bees and equally inventive bugs, this is a book that brings the lovely particularity of life in Japan––marked by food and nature––to young readers here.Born in Tokyo, Japan, Kaya Doi graduated with a degree in design from Tokyo Zokei University. She got her start in picture books by attending the Atosaki Juku Workshop, held at a Tokyo bookshop specializing in children's books. Since then she has created many books featuring her delicate color-pencil drawings. She lives in Chiba Prefecture and maintains a strong interest in environmental and animal welfare issues.

    Porcine wonder. Fan of toast with a great deal of butter on it. Mercy Watson’s disarming personality and hilarious hijinks are captivating early chapter-book readers everywhere. Now it’s easy to jumpstart a Mercy Watson collection with this enticing boxed set combining the first three adventures of the series: MERCY WATSON TO THE RESCUE (an American Library Association Notable Children’s Book), MERCY WATSON GOES FOR A RIDE (winner of a 2007 Theodor Seuss Geisel Honor), and MERCY WATSON FIGHTS CRIME.

    As much as he'd love to sing the praises of his book (he is very vain), he wouldn't want you to hear about his brave 11-year old heroes, Cass and Max-Ernest. Or about how a mysterious box of vials, the Symphony of Smells, sends them on the trail of a magician who has vanished under strange (and stinky) circumstances. And he certainly wouldn't want you to know about the hair-raising adventures that follow and the nefarious villains they face. You see, not only is the name of this book secret, the story inside is, too. For it concerns a secret. A Big Secret.

    Her patient is the artist Henri Matisse, and as Matisse recovers from his illness, he and Monique become good friends. Later, Monique enters a convent where she becomes a nursing nun--and by happy coincidence, she meets Matisse once again. Her religious order is so poor that they don't have a chapel of their own, but Matisse decides that with Monique's help, he can remedy that situation. He develops a sketch drawn by Monique into a brilliant set of stained-glass chapel windows, and then uses his influence to raise enough money for the chapel's construction. This true account of Matisse and the chapel at Vence, in southern France, is the main focus of Laurence Anholt's newest delightful children's story. Anholt's illustrations faithfully reproduce many of Matisse's wonderful artworks in this beautiful storybook.

     Even if Megan would rather be at the mall, Cassidy is late for hockey practice, Emma's already read every book in existence, and Jess is missing her mother too much to care, the new book club is scheduled to meet every month. But what begins as a mom-imposed ritual of reading Little Women soon helps four unlikely friends navigate the drama of middle school. From stolen journals, to secret crushes, to a fashion-fiasco first dance, the girls are up to their Wellie boots in drama. They can't help but wonder: What would Jo March do? Acclaimed author Heather Vogel Frederick will delight daughters of all ages in a novel about the fabulousness of fiction, family, and friendship.

    In her chatty and breezy style, typical of any online conversation, Bethany Hamilton shares information on a wide variety of topics about her life and faith.

    Linus patiently awaits the Great Pumpkin. Charlie Brown brings the Peanuts gang together for a Thanksgiving they will never forget, and Chuck's tiny tree demonstrates the true meaning of Christmas. Charlie Brown's ongoing quest for love and accptance during Valentine's Day is overflowing with eternal optimism, and, finally, Peppermint Patty tries unsuccessfully to teach Marcie all about Easter Eggs.

    An unlikely thief is robbing the Watsons! But as the thief soon discovers, crime doesn’t pay. Not when there is a very large pig involved. Mercy Watson: Princess in DisguiseIt’s Halloween on Deckawoo Drive, and Mr. and Mrs. Watson have decided on the perfect costume for Mercy. Mercy is encouraged by the promise of treats. For what could be better than a treat-getting adventure? Especially if it happens to involve a chase. . . .

    However, the gray-haired, grandmotherly Mrs. White is not an ordinary candy maker. Her confections have magical side effects. Purposefully, she invites the kids on a special mission to retrieve a hidden talisman under Mt. Diablo Elementary School.

    But she’s taught them well, and at the end of their adventures, each one proves himself a mensch—making Mama one proud gefilte indeed. Dave Horowitz’s playful rhyming tale, its illustrations packed with comic asides, will have readers giggling out loud and looking for opportunities to practice their Yiddish—with help from the handy glossary at the end of the book.

    When the resourceful dog sets aside his brand-new book and drifts off to sleep, a curious little creature makes off with it. Polo follows in hot pursuit, setting the stage for a new series of adventures--into the sky, to a mysterious cloud made of cotton candy, through fun-house mirrors, on hot air balloons, across a desert and into the jungle. As before, Polo's journey is packed with incident and expression--80 pages of seamless, satisfying picture storytelling that call to mind  the worlds of classic animated film, comics, and books.

    And when she does, something amazing happens! Now Daisy can understand everything animals say, from her favorite farm dog, Boom, to the classroom gerbils, to a singing-and-dancing ant. And it’s a lucky thing, too: when Boom goes missing, the girl conspires with a horse and squirrel to come to the rescue. Sweetly illustrated in black and white, this charming story is sure to enchant young animal lovers everywhere.

    The basics, from gearing up to choosing a site to building a tarp tent. Tasty outdoor recipes: Solar Oven Pizza, Chow Down Chili and s'mores of course - with 8 variations.Plus: how to keep a Field Journal, exploring the nighttime sky, creepy campfire stories, and, when it's time to go home, leaving no trace. It's everything you need to pick up and head for the hills. For Ages 7 and up.

    Through the exchanges between a little Chinese girl and her adoptive parent, this title offers a poignant and inspiring message to adoptive parents and children all over the world.

    His tasty hot dogs, delectable cakes, dizzy streets, and sleepy deltas have since become icons of twentieth century art. Now young readers have the chance to explore the development of a fascinating artist while delighting in the very child-friendly art that has made him so acclaimed. With her deft touch, critically-acclaimed non-fiction author Susan Rubin tells the story of the man behind the masterpieces.

    Now three of his most beloved books, including the contemporary classic Frindle, are available in this handsome boxed set. Includes the books Frindle, The Landry News, and The Janitor's Boy.

    No mother. No birth certificate. Not even a real birthday. Now, after four different foster families, Min's not surprised when she's dumped back with Children's Aid the week before Christmas. Still, a small part of her can't help aching for a miracle... and now she has an injured dog that needs a miracle too.

    Thanks to bratty, bossy Jenna Drews who hates Ida, no one in class has ever really noticed her before.       It's when the sparkly Stacey Merriweather comes to her school that her plan goes awry. Ida reaches out despite her fear, but doesn't say hello—instead she writes Stacey anonymous notes. Soon their friendship develops without Ida ever having to reveal her real identity. Until she has no choice. And that's when the true friendship begins.     Debut author Julie Bowe tells a charming story that will win the heart of any girl who's faced her fear sideways.

    Instead, they're magazine delivery girls at Oak Knoll Hospital. Soon, however, Molly and Emily start to suspect that something very un-patriotic is going on at Oak Knoll--and their snooping leads them deep into trouble!

    The legend continues . . .Deluxe 4/color guide to the world of Bionicle -- including original art and maps.Locations will include: Karzahni, Artakha, Mata Nui, Metru Nui, Voya Nui (2006 setting), Akua Nui and the Pit (2007 setting), Roodaka’s Island, Brotherhood of Makuta fortress, and the Dark Hunter IslandExplore the unknown and learn the secrets of the Toa.

    . . . Humorous, gently eerie drawings on almost every page add to the fun." — SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL

    Kids will love joining in the search for Sizzles by helping to look for him under 50 different flaps!

    What's hiding behind those curtains on the stage? How does a huge set appear so quickly between scenes? Just two of the many questions answered in this visual compendium.

    The images trace Keller's life from birth, to childhood with Annie Sullivan in the cottage, to college, and on to her many years as a dedicated social activist and spokesperson. We get a glimpse of her sense of humor, her experiences as a lecturer on the vaudeville circuit, her many pets, and her last quiet years in Connecticut.

    In its 12th year of publication, The World Almanac for Kids 2008 is completely updated and filled with facts, quizzes, experiments, puzzles, maps, source websites and more on all manner of timely and timeless topics such as Faces and Places, Art, Weather, Homework Help, Museums, Music and Dance, Sports, Nations, U.S. States and U.S. History. New this year are fun collections of Spanish/English translations and a CSI twist on the Science Chapter. Enjoyed with its companion volume, World Almanac for Kids Brain-building Quizzes, kids will get a head start in school and life The World Almanac for Kids 2008 is 352 pages of entertaining and engaging answers to thousands of questions and things to do after school and during the Summer Slump. This library builder and homework helper is written especially for kids and is reviewed by Kid Advisors from around the country1. National bestseller: The number one selling kids' almanac in the world, with over 3.5 million copies in print First published in 1996.2. Editorial excellence: Completely revised for 2008, The World Almanac for Kids offers coverage on the 2008 Beijing Olympic athletes and fun collections of Spanish/English translations. Also inside are brand new puzzles and games, science experiments, and homework help tips.3. Over 300 color illustrations throughout, jazzy spreads, call-outs and engaging Table of Contents.4. Free monthly updates throughout the year as part of The World Almanac for Kids E-Newsletter. Dedicated website, www.worldalmanacforkids.com."

    She loves the astronomy charts on her walls and the fact that she can wave to her best friend, Rose, from her very own window. And best of all, a wren has recently made its home right by her front door! When her family is forced to move, Diana wonders if she'll ever find that same grounded and happy feeling again. This gentle and ultimately redeeming story in poems is about those secure and fulfilling friendships that happen naturally and easily when you live right next door, and the struggles of losing the comfort of a familiar place. Matt Phelan's warm and expressive illustrations perfectly complement Eileen Spinelli's tenderhearted and unique tale that reminds us that sometimes a little uprooting and change is necessary for growth.

    Hannah Dias, California Girl with Attitude, and Alex, her laid-back brother, have moved from exciting San Francisco to boring Snipesville, Georgia. Life doesn't improve when they meet Brandon, a dorky kid who is plotting his escape from the Deep South, and the weird Professor, who has a strange secret. Suddenly, the kids are catapulted thousands of miles and almost seventy years to England during World War Two. They fall into a world of stinging nettles, dragon ladies, bomb blasts, ugly underwear, stinky sandwiches, painful punishments, and non-absorbing toilet paper. They learn so much more than they could ever learn in a history class. Not that they want to learn it. But they can't go home unless they find George Braithwaite, whoever he is, and whatever it is that he has to do with Snipesville.

    Many strange people are interested in Max and his tapestry. His discovery leads him to Rowan Academy, a secret school where great things await him.But dark things are waiting, too. When Max learns that priceless artworks and gifted children are disappearing, he finds himself in the crossfire of an ancient struggle between good and evil. To survive, he'll have to rely on a network of agents and mystics, the genius of his roommate, and the frightening power awakening within him.

    But all of this changes once Jake begins helping out the town's eccentric fisherman, Sharkey, with work. On a trip to Key West, Jake is dumbfounded when Sharkey buys a mule named Jewel and her faithful sidekick, a dog named Rudy. Despite their troublemaking ways, Jake grows fond of the mischievous duo and their owner. All the while, Jake is trying to befriend Mara, the new girl in town, whose life has been filled with sadness. During the Labor Day holiday, an unpredictable Atlantic hurricane hits Jake's hometown with devastating speed and power, reducing the island to shambles. Jake is determined to find his family, along with Sharkey and Mara. But he may need help from some unlikely sources. From the bestselling author of Star in the Storm and Thunder from the Sea comes a gripping story of strength and determination in the face of uncontrollable circumstances. Based on actual events, Joan Hiatt Harlow's tale explores friendship, loyalty, and ultimately, hope.

    Awakened by the cries, the older brother comes to Baby's rescue. He makes Baby giggle and sing and builds a giant tower of blocks. He reads Baby his favorite book. Once Baby is finally asleep, the big brother notices with pride that he really does love the baby after all!Parents and teachers alike will appreciate how this book lightly and humorously approaches such a weighty subject for children awaiting a new sibling. The colorful illustrations of bunnies allow kids of all backgrounds and ages to relate and recognize themselves in the story.

    A collection of original and traditional stories, including The Selfish Giant, The Golden Goose, and The Tale of Peter Rabbit..

    "Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up the other." Ecclesiastes 4:9-10a (NRSV) Join the beavers as they learn that 47 are even better than two and things go best when they all work together.

    From the Mona Lisa's hidden past to the history of Area 51, Do Not Open explores lost worlds, unravels secret codes, and lets readers step through the looking glass to see if they can handle the truth! AUTHOR BIO:

    But with Mimi’s strength and Parveen’s ingenuity, Hamish X and all their Wind City friends are rescued. Now, new and surprising adventures are in store for everyone, when they make their escape to ... Switzerland! Deep within the Alps, the world’s lost children have found safe haven in a hidden world. It is here, in the Hollow Mountain, where the mysteries of Hamish X, his boots, and his past will begin to unfold—if the Grey Agents don’t get to him first!

    But, as often happens, the tribes grew envious of each other and began to fight amongst themselves in the names of their spirits. The children decided to declare a war on war by creating a creature that combined the best of all the spirits and would protect all the people. To this day, the dragon is a symbol of peace and plays an especially important role in the celebration of the Chinese New Year. This timely message of cooperation and empowerment makes this book especially appealing to trade and institutional accounts. Communities with significant Chinese populations will also have a special interest in this title. Catherine Louis' Liu and the Bird was a critical hit with review journals, teachers, and librarians.

    There he set up a farm on seven acres of land. From those humble beginnings the Tuttle family story became America’s story. As the Tuttles passed down the farm, along the way they witnessed the settlement and expansion of New England; they fought in the American Revolution; they helped runaway slaves along the Underground Railroad and sold maple syrup to Abraham Lincoln; they bought the first Model T in that Dover; and they transformed the old barn into the thriving country store it is today. With Caldecott Medalist Mary Azarian’s evocative woodcuts and Richard Michelson’s moving prose bringing the Tuttle story to life, readers will be enraptured by the panorama of American history as seen through the eyes of one family.

    What can this wonderful sound be? They decide to go and find out, and they discover a fabulous frog concert. But mice aren’t allowed in. So they return home and decide to form an orchestra of their own—no frogs allowed. They practice and practice, and finally put on a great show. When all the cheers die down, the mice are shocked to see an audience full of frogs! It turns out that you can’t keep good music to yourself after all. Here is a funny and imaginative story, illustrated by remarkably cute art.

    Sure a lot of kids want to grow up to be astronauts, but according to scientist Glenn Murphy, even MORE kids want to know what happens to astronaut farts. (Short answer: Not good things!) And they want to know: Why don't all fish die from lightening storms? Why haven't we all been sucked into a black hole? Do animals talk? Told in a back-and-forth conversational style, "Why is Snot Green?" presents science just the way kids want to learn it--with lots of laughter.

    They have sleepovers, bake chocolate cupcakes together, go out shopping, and giggle at old photographs. But one day Grandma forgets Camille's name. Then she can't remember where to put her shoes.Camille learns that her grandma is sick, but "not the kind where you cough and blow your nose." Grandma has Alzheimer's disease, which is what makes her do strange things. And even though Grandma has to move out of her house and rely on nurses to care for her, Camille finds a way to continue their special traditions.With charming, sensitive illustrations, this story gently introduces young readers to the realities of Alzheimer's disease, and reminds them that love is more powerful than any illness can be.

    If he tightens his belt, he doubles his strength. If he swings his hammer, lightning flashes. When he races his billy goats across the sky, their hooves kick up huge thunderclouds. And when the folks below in Middle Earth hear a boom of thunder, they always smile, for they know their loyal Thor, protector and defender of civilization, has once again brought order to the universe. Told and retold often and with great affection, the Thor stories have been around since the days of the Vikings. Here, illustrated with high drama and written with humor and skill, are ancient stories made accessible and fun.

     An everyday errand turns into a great adventure as Cow goes to market. Spot squish on cover gives readers a touch of Cow. Charming gift for cow and Cow collectors, alike.

    Pen and ink, with spots of color, capture winter's mood, while pastel chalks make spring flowers bloom into life. The see-through hues of watercolors celebrate summer's warmth, while vibrant oils perfectly paint fall's majestic scenes. Artist Craig Orback takes up the poem's challenge in his marvelous illustrations, using each of the mediums described. Just as the seasons move seamlessly into one another, so too do the art styles blend together, then emerge in full splendor, and blend again as the next season approaches.

    The Complete Zoo Adventure is perfect for all ages, this guide has checklists, connect-the-dot pictures, word finds, fact cards, a field journal, and more in the activity section.

    Whether you are a fantasy artist looking for ideas and inspiration, or a fan of the genre interested in following the work of the finest, freshest, and most exciting talents in the world of fantasy art today, Fantasy Art Now gives you all you need in one lush full-color volume.Inside you'll find:An inspirational showcase of images from leading fantasy artists and rising starsMany pieces of never-before-presented fantasy artArtwork from the latest cutting-edge fantasy media, including graphic novels, book coves, card games, role-playing games, and moreThe art of talents such as Clint Langley, Benita Winckler, Uwe Jarkling, Melanie Delon, Patrick Reilly, Soa Lee, Cyril Van Der Haegen, Anne Stokes, Francis Tsai, Robert Change, and many moreEach artist's inspirations, techniques, and the stories behind their work

    

    What is America? See the answer though the eyes of eighteen artists.

    But on the journey back to England he faces pirates and a terrible storm, before making the longed-for trip back up the river Thames. Finally reunited with his family in Norfolk, Sam realizes how much life at sea has become part of him. So when he hears that Napoleon plans to attack England, he is tempted to join the navy once more, and finds himself midshipman on none other than the Victory, preparing for one of the most epic battles in history: Trafalgar.

    Based on a traditional song adapted by the award-winning Louisiana singer/songwriter Johnette Downing, the book invites children to count the families of pelicans, armadillos, black bears, alligators, Catahoulas, nutria, possums, crawfish, and mosquitoes. Each animal named is first introduced by the environment in which they live--the wetlands are home to the barking Catahoula, the live oak haven houses the sleepy possums, the mosquitoes buzz in the swamp, and the armadillos dig in the bayou. Deborah Kadairis signature collage illustrations highlight the animals and their surroundings with clear, simple images that kids and parents can re-create at home with construction paper and a bit of imagination.

    And they're lovable for who they are on the inside, as they sing, play, and shout. Robin Cruise and Caldecott Honor winner Margaret Chodos-Irvine portray a diverse trio of parents and children in this lyrical celebration of a love that makes each child feel like the one and only.

    Helens is constantly erupting. It is pushing up a ridge of thick lava that is rebuilding the peak of the mountain that was blown off in 1980. The mountain is being monitored by geologists and volcanologists, all trying to answer the same question: Will it blow? Science is like detective work, and author Elizabeth Rusch presents the work of volcanology in a series of cases that need to be cracked—with Mount St. Helens as the central culprit, a master disguises, adept at sending out false clues. But through an understanding of earthquakes, gases that come from underground, infrared measurement of the earth’s temperature, bumps and deformations on the surface of the earth, and kind of rock that is being formed in the crater, readers become volcano detectives. With sidebars about the latest gadgets and gizmos employed at the mountain and activities kids can enact, young people will learn the current science of volcanology and have fun at the same time.

    So the two boys challenge each other to a duel. Whoever solves the next case is the winner. The loser has to quit detective work for good!

    It's summer, school's out, and they are on their way to California, where they will be able to do some major skating. But on the plane, the unthinkable happens: They are hijacked by terrorists. As frightened as they may be, they take action and they succeed. Sort of. They may have beaten the terrorists, but now their plane has crashed in the middle of nowhere and all of a sudden, their summer vacation is about finding food, shelter, and a rescue. Can three normal twelve-year-old boys find a way to get by without fast food and skate parks?

    This colorfully illustrated book makes carbon dioxide, an invisible odorless gas responsible for global warming and plant growth, into something that can be imagined and understood by children.

    Sharks so large they could swallow whales whole. Timothy Bradley's vibrant illustrations and razor-sharp prose bring these ferocious fish and their tamer relatives to life with scientific detail. Learn how they survived catastrophic events that completely wiped other creatures out, and see which of their strange adaptations can still be seen in sharks today.

    Some of them will only live for a few days. Others will migrate thousands of miles to winter in a warmer climate. Still others will hibernate through the cold months. For all butterflies, life begins with metamorphosis. In one of nature's most amazing feats, caterpillars become creatures of beauty and grace. A companion to It's a Hummingbird's Life.

    In December 2004 a frightened young hippo, separated from his family by the devastating tsunami in Southeast Asia, adopted an 130-year-old tortoise as his "mother." And the tortoise remarkably accepted the baby hippo as his own. Owen and Mzee are now inseparable and their story has captured hearts everywhere. With bold photographs from the original book and new simple, sweet text, Owen and Mzee is perfect for young children and families.

    Witty and irreverent, Horseradish is a book with universal appeal, a delightful vehicle to introduce Snicket's uproariously unhappy observations to a crowd not yet familiar with the Baudelaires' misadventures.

    In rhythmic text, Anastasia Suen breaks down the complex subject of electricity to its essential parts.Paul Carrick's three-dimensional illustrations help shed light on the subject.

    Publication Date: September 30, 2007 | Age Level: 5 and up | Grade Level: K and up"Could you learn every language in the world? Could you run an all-night race?Could you recognize your family with your eyes shut?What is the best thing about you?"This utterly unique book of whimsical pictures, questions and ideas will tickle imaginations, provoke laughter, stir feelings and encourage exploration.

    Some are forced to work as household servants; some toil in the fields; some are soldiers. Author Wendy Herumin explores the economic and cultural background of this serious topic, describing the difficult situations many children endure and examining ways that their lives can be improved.

    What's worse than an alligator with a toothache? A centipede with athlete's foot! Kids will go bee-serk over these fun and creative jokes about our little six- and eight-legged friends.

    William was already Duke of Normandy?part of modern-day France. In 1066, he?along with thousands of Norman soldiers?invaded England and defeated King Harold Godwinson in the Battle of Hastings. As a result of William's victory, England's ties to Scandinavia loosened and its political and cultural traditions became more tightly linked to France and the rest of mainland Europe. The Norman Conquest of England is one of world history's most pivotal moments.

    Norbert's News. After Basil sees a real weeping icon, meets with people who have been miraculously healed of deadly illnesses, and more, he begins to understand his faith and put it in motion in his own life. He struggles to get along better with his single mom, and befriends the social outcast of the school, a silent boy named Anthony. Throughout his first year at a private parochial school, Basil not only researches a new miracle for each issue of the News, but also learns that everyday miracles can happen even in his own life.

    Selected by Chairman Mao's officials from among millions of children to become a dancer, Li's new life began as he left his family behind.At the Beijing Dance Academy, days were long and difficult. Li's hard work was rewarded when he was chosen yet again, this time to travel to America.From there his career took flight, and he danced in cities around the world—never forgetting his family, who urged him to follow his dreams.

    But after a hair-raising flight down, their vacation turns into anything but fun. Granny's new boyfriend has been kidnapped without his medication. If the boys don't find him soon, it's curtains for the old guy. And to make things worse, Granny's scared stiff -- literally!

    As workers loaded bags of fertilizer made with ammonium nitrate into the ship's hold, particles from broken bags mixed with flammable debris in the freighter's hot underbelly. Heat caused the ammonium nitrate to combust, leading to one of the worst industrial disasters in U.S. history. In narrative detail, The Texas City Disaster recounts how the Grandcamp's explosion sent fireballs skyward to land on homes and stores, engulfing the city in flames. Through this drama, kids will learn how new safety procedures for chemical shipments help prevent such disasters today. A series of primary-source quotes from witnesses reveal the human drama, while a "Profiles" section lists players in Texas City.

    These powerful poems will shock you with their candidness, touch you with their emotional edge, and amaze you with their perserverence of spirit.

    They rest during the day but come to life at night to hunt. With a mighty roar, the big cats chase down their prey. Sharp teeth and claws and powerful jaws mean certain doom. Author Elaine Landau tells the reader all about these beautiful hunters: how they hunt, where they live, and what the future holds for the big cats.

    From self-confidence and discovering your talents to healthy eating, make-up, and exercise, Leslie Cheret will help any girl feel beautiful. Full of thoughts from real LDS girls your age and helpful tips to feeling your best.

    Five-year-old Katy meets a pirate -- but is he real of imagined? Nine-year-old Bobby and his older brother Joey visit an ancient cemetery and a 19th century fort, as Bobby searches for buried treasure that is rumored to still be hidden on the island. Local legends and tales of ghosts add to a story filled with colorful characters, humorous situations and a youthful spirit of adventure.

    Written by Ruth Brocklehurst and Henry Brook, this book provides detailed accounts of all the major battles and how the latest innovations such as submarines, tanks, poison gas and barbed wire helped shape the course of the First World War.