The People of Sparks picks up where The City of Ember leaves off. Lina and Doon have emerged from the underground city to the exciting new world above, and it isn't long before they are followed by the other inhabitants of Ember. The Emberites soon come across a town where they are welcomed, fed, and given places to sleep. But the town's resources are limited and it isn't long before resentment be ...

Multiple Nebula and Hugo award-winner Le Guin contributes a new Introduction to this edition of McDonald's tale of a princess whose discovery of a secret stair at the top turret of a castle leads to a wonderful revelation.

Bright illustrations—a cacophony of colorful energy—breathe life into this tale of generosity's vibrant power. In the style of Jan Brett, this author-illustrator team shows how selflessness expands a sphere of influence and how meeting needs by giving generously, even sacrificially, leads to true happiness. An infectious message relevant for all time.

This conclusion to an outstanding series tells a story of self-discovery, courage, and family, and poses questions on how an individual becomes who he/she is intended to be and what can be accomplished as a result. Haddix allows this volume, as well as the entire series, to raise important and significant ideas that are as engaging to consider as the incredible adventures her time travelers exper ...

Bearing six unusual gifts, young Prince Jen embarks on a perilous quest and emerges triumphantly into manhood. This rich fantasy was named "School Library Journal" Best Book of the Year and a "Booklist" Top of the List Award winner.

The latest in Haddix's riveting The Missing series leaves protagonist Jonah on his own to make a series of life- and time-altering decisions. Who are you when the world as you know it seems to evaporate? With great storytelling, Haddix raises this question and deftly takes readers through a roller coaster of events and choices to a thought-provoking and satisfying conclusion, which also marks a be ...

In this highly inventive and splendid rendering of a favorite Grimm fairy tale, award-winning storyteller and illustrator Paul O. Zelinsky evokes a world of Medieval magic. "Zelinsky's smooth retelling and glowing pictures cast the story in a new and beautiful light".--School Library Journal. A 1987 Caldecott Honor Book. An ALA Notable Book. Full color.

From page one, this coming-of-age tale is unlike any other. Its unusual plot—chock-full of stunning detail and all things unexpected—and its strikingly real characters, draw readers into the story's emotion and the authentic "growing up" struggles it personifies. Each character offers a deep and differing look into the struggles kids face as they mature and, thrown together on an unl ...

Princess Solimar’s favorite day of year is when thousands and thousands of monarch butterflies return to the nearby forest. This year she braves a trip into the forest where the butterflies land on her, too, covering her with their beautiful wings and soft humming. She promises to always protect the monarchs, and they leave behind a special magical power for Solimar. While trying to figure it ou ...

Magic Tree House Books have a combination of facts and adventure that is perfect for beginning and reluctant readers. In this newest story, Jack and Annie are whisked back to Elizabethan England where they meet the Bard of Avon himself, William Shakespeare, and luckily for them he is desperate for two small actors for his latest play.

In the third book of the American history cluster, Jack and Annie are whisked to a midwestern prairie in the 1870's where they visit a school, learn about pioneer life and run from a twister. Illustrations.

Out of school for the summer, Wesley decides start his own "civilization" in a garden. As Wesley experiments, he finds the plant grown from an unknown seed provides food, clothing, shelter, and even recreation. Illustrations.