Jimmy's boa constrictor wreaks havoc on the class trip to a farm.

After Jonathan's mother breaks her ankle on a family camping trip, Jonathan and his younger sister are left alone on a deserted island. Then a devastating earthquake hits and siblings must fight for their lives.

Year after year, Eli watches the solemn lighting of seven candles at his family's celebration of Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year. On such a happy occasion, his parents and grandparents always seem sad, and Eli can't understand why.Then one year Eli travels to Eastern Europe to learn more about his family history. There, he learns how the candles represent his family's connection to the Holocaus ...

It is the winter of 1944. In Nazi-occupied Europe, a Jewish couple realize their fate is sealed and make a heart-rending decision so that their infant daughter might live. Ruth Vander Zee's elegant narration and Roberto Innocenti's searing and beautiful illustrations combine to capture the fear, love, and sadness of a Holocaust survivor's story.

Thirteen-year-old Kyle thought spending a vacation on the Oregon coast with his family would be great. But a tsunami strikes while he is babysitting his little sister, BeeBee. Now they must outwit nature's fury to save themselves.

Marcia enjoys being her mother's helper, so she's hurt when Mother hires Fannie Farmer to prepare family's meals. But sure enough Fannie's charm (and griddle cakes!) win Marcia over, and she finds herself cooking up delights she never thought possible!

Which is greater: a story's need for a reader? or a reader's need for story? William Joyce's tribute a late patron of libraries forms the basis for an imaginative story in which books transform worlds, and writers capture worlds in books. Deserving of all the critical attention it receives, this is a must-have for home, school, and public libraries!

Like other ex-slaves, Paschal and his brother, Gideon, have been promised 40 acres and maybe a mule. But the notorious night riders have plans to take it away, threatening to tear the beautiful freedom that the two boys are enjoying for the first time in their young lives.

With simple but engaging text, paintings, and an illuminating author's note telling the true account of a young slave who joins the Union Army, this tale of a real person's role in the Civil War is ideal for beginning readers and burgeoning history buffs. Full color.

When Alta Weiss throws a corncob at a tomcat chasing her favorite hen, folks know one thing for sure: She may be a girl, but she's got some arm. This is the exciting story of the pioneering female baseball player--a true American original. Full color.

A magazine spread about migrant workers moved then-porter Gordon Parks to buy a camera and teach himself the craft. He sensed injustice, particularly "the unfairness of segregation" and soon learned to tell its story through the lens. His skilled shots eventually landed in major magazines, their first captures by a black photographer. An impactful way to show how the efforts of one man can give vo ...

Sylvie has been a 12-year-old princess for more than 80 years, ever since the book she lives in was first printed. When a new reader gazes down into Chapter One, Sylvie breaks a rule--she looks at the Reader. Worse, she gets to know the Reader, and enters her dreams and subconscious, where she achieves many Good things, but the Greatest goes far beyond even her imaginings.

Beautiful free verse tells a story, both from individual perspectives and in general, that is punctuated with moving mixed-media illustrations. An unforgettable reading experience based on the experience of the author and her family.

Provides a fascinating look at historical medical research within an exciting story.

Paulsens Newbery Honor Book tells the story of 13-year-old Brian Robeson, the sole survivor of a plane crash in the Canadian wilderness. This 20th anniversary commemorative edition features a fresh new look and a new reading group guide, along with new content from the author. Illustrations.

Scott O'Dell's Newbery Medal-winning classic is a gripping tale of survival, strength, and courage. Based on the true story of a Nicoleño Indian girl living alone on an island off the coast of California, Island of the Blue Dolphins has captivated readers for generations. On San Nicolas Island, dolphins flash in the surrounding blue waters, sea otter play in the vast kelp beds, and sea elephants ...

This reader chronicles the life of John Adams, the second president of the newly formed United States. Full color.

This is historical fiction at its best, portraying Revolutionary Boston as seen through the shrewd eyes of a young apprentice silversmith. Features an Afterword by the author.

An inspired story with memorable characters, especially one determined and influential teacher.

Naomi Vlecke lives with her farming family in an Amish community in Pennsylvania. The Amish first came to Pennsylvania in the early 1700s, and to this day preserve a religious and "plain" life-style. As part of her household chores, Naomi looks after the chickens with her little sister, Ruth.