Clever, colorful descriptions engage readers while offering a meaningful, creative introduction to these quirky creatures. A true pleasure.

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.

Gorgeous illustrations and charming text equally tell this story of courage and bravery, large and confident traits for a little owl who is neither. But knight school arms Owl with skills that put him in good stead when an imposing character tests his mettle one night while Owl's on duty. An absolute delight.

Fun characters and word play make this an entertaining tale for young readers!

When a language barrier makes their mouths "as empty as our breadbaskets," this determined granddaughter begins bridging the gap just like her teacher showed her in class. Soon, she and her Abuela share words, Spanish and English, back and forth. A beautiful example of how creative problem solving and patience overcomes obstacles.

A classic of American humor, the adventures of a house painter and his brood of high-stepping penguins have delighted children for generations. "Here is a book to read aloud in groups of all ages. There is not an extra or misplaced word in the whole story."--"The Horn Book." Newbery Honor Book.

From the familiar roadrunner and common crow to the exotic quetzal and Andean cock-of-the-rock, this unusual aviary of twenty-one colorful creatures soars with feathery frivolity.

An emperor penguin lays an egg on the Antarctic ice. In the bitter cold, miles away from the only source of food, how can the chick survive?

Based on the migration of a real peregrine falcon that was tracked by satellite telemetry, this book follows the world's fastest bird on her annual migration from Alaska to Argentina.THE PEREGRINE'S JOURNEY vividly describes one of the most remarkable feats in the animal kingdom. Beginning in Alaska and ending two months later in Argentina, the peregrine falcon's annual migration is an 8,000-mile ...

During World War II, carrier pigeons were used to send messages across enemy lines. G.I. Joe was one such pigeon, working closely with British and American troops to help them communicate over long distances and coordinate their attacks. Full color.

Poppy, full of hope and determination, literally transforms from a cowardly follower into a confident leader right before a reader's eyes. Her story is so real and so powerful that readers won't be able to put it down until they know she is safe. Well-paced with plenty of plot twists, readers are able to think deeply and ask important questions. Adults will appreciate the opportunity to practicall ...

Gentle, uncluttered illustrations prompt empathy for Rocket. They show his kind, open wonder and the roadblock that could derail his mission. But friendship and a listening heart lead him to discover his potential that dovetails his love for words and for others beautifully. A beautiful message in a tale told simply.

Based on the Sparrow War of China in 1958, this tale contrasts a girl's gentle, compassionate spirit with frustrated, shortsighted action instigated by China's leadership. The consequence of each path is shown beautifully, highlighting the wisdom of measured forethought and wise thinking.

Written by the author when she was in the fifth grade, this extraordinary fantasy--inspired by a dream and her complicated feelings about terrorism after September 11th--portrays a world of warfare, deception, bravery, and freedom. Illustrations.

Tacky the Penguin goes windsurfing and ends up on a tropical island and is taken captive by an elephant who, upon seeing Tacky's floral Hawaiian shirt, mistakes him for a bouquet of flowers. Tacky soon begins to worry he'll never see his iceberg again. Full color.

Tacky makes us smile because he’s quirky and even though his outside-the-box thinking seems very odd, it is valuable. This one celebrates the unique gifts we are each given. There are more Tacky books, each as praiseworthy.

Even in his flowing blond wig and little red "skipping shoes," everyone's favorite misfit penguin, Tacky, imbues the character of Goldilocks with his own indomitable personality and style in this twist on the familiar tale. Full color.

In this middle grade novel, acclaimed author and illustrator Jean Craighead George tells the story of how one unusual spotted owl makes his way into the home--and hearts--of a family of loggers.

Tacky is back and ready to help his team win the shiny first-place bow ties in the penguin cheering contest. "Hip, hip hooray! . . . Tacky's fans will flip for this title".--School Library Journal. Full color.

A colorful, humorous way to introduce young readers to unfamiliar feathered friends, or to cleverly re-imagine familiar flyers. Delightful.