This classic by the Newbery Medal-winning author relates the incredible adventures of Professor William Waterman Sherman, who in 1883 sets off in a balloon across the Pacific. Illustrations.

It is a quiet day on an island. Then suddenly a mountain blows its top! It is a volcano. How does it start? What happens next? Read this amazing book and find out.

A laugh-outloud journey through counting as two squirrels find and "store" nuts. Even with sparse text, the author presents two well-defined and likable characters. You readers will want more of these nut-crazed rodents and their antics!

Find out how these fun, stackable blocks became the most popular toys in the world. The LEGO toy company was founded in 1934 by a Danish carpenter who loved making wooden pull toys. From its humble beginnings, the company has lived up to its name--which comes from the Danish phrase meaning to always "play well"--encouraging children to use their imagination and build whatever they can dream up. In ...

Arguably the key document in American history, the Constitution was far from an easily-reached conclusion. What were the issues and arguments? Who were the key players? With fascinating detail, this book pulls back the curtain on the drama surrounding the establishment of government, rights, and responsibilities.

Overcoming obstacles at every step, the Tuskegee Airmen personified dedication, courage, and perseverance. Amazing background and details reveal the truly heroic nature and actions of these brave soldiers.

With remarkable and fascinating detail, this fast-paced book reveals the unfolding of D-Day. Related background is clearly explained, enabling readers to understand and appreciate the significance of this historic event.

A tragedy that unfolded in multiple acts, Hurricane Katrina devestated the city of New Orleans. Without judgement, the author presents the errors made by leaders at various levels and shows the effects of poor decision-making. The book also addresses several rumors that got reported by the press that ultimately provided to be untrue. An interesting exploration of how a major weather event can have ...

The power and destruction of the atomic bomb is revealed through the experiences of those involved in and impacted by the decision to drop the first one on Hiroshima. Includes the amazing story of one man who survived the bombings at Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

This is historical retelling that engrosses and educates. Lyrically written text guides readers through the challenges of firefighting and how the relentless demands on firefighters required rethinking the way these services were managed. The setting comes alive with fast-paced drama driven by misguided choices and dire consequences. Timelines of the location and related events, and of the world g ...

This is a perfect blend of historical retelling and technical detail that shows the airship's place in the evolution of flight. The story-like text presents airships within the context of world events, helping readers understand the influence one had on the other, and how these influences may have contributed to the Hindenburg's demise. Compelling and instructive reading.

Viewed by many as a turning point in Americans' ability to trust their government, the Vietnam War remains controversial even today. Why? What was it about this war that led to overt lies, deadly protests, and a strong mistrust of elected leaders? An intriguing look at a period of upheaval in American history.

A time of extraordinary changes in almost every realm, the 1920's roared nothing less than cultural transformation. Following the major areas that influenced and were influenced by the era, the book introduces young readers to an era of seismic shifts that ended with a spectacular crash.

A dog's owner describes how Tiny grew from a very small puppy to a very big dog. Color illustrations throughout.

If a life is spent focused on what is "deserved" but not given, what temptations will arise? A study in more than his most famous decision, this book gives readers a view of Arnold that, in part, explains how he turned traitor.

Remarkable is not a strong enough word to describe Ida. B. Wells. She used her skills to attack injustice wherever she saw it, seemingly without fear. Journalist, activist, mother, writer—Wells was a voice for the oppressed in every role she filled. A very interesting biography of an amazing individual. Includes connections to the recently opened Memorial for Peace and Justice where Ida B. Wells ...

Has the subject of a biography ever surprised you? While most readers will immediately associate Strauss with his famous blue jeans, they will be surprised to find out how this innovative businessman made his mark (literally, the logo he created is still used!) on the world.

Marco Polo was seventeen when he set out for China . . . and forty-one when he came back! More than seven hundred years ago, Marco Polo traveled from the medieval city of Venice to the fabled kingdom of the great Kublai Khan, seeing new sights and riches that no Westerner had ever before witnessed. But did Marco Polo experience the things he wrote about . . . or was it all made-up? Young readers a ...

Grit flowed through Nellie Bly's veins. Undeterred at every turn, she became a successful journalist (multiple times), a world traveler, and one of the most famous people of her era. An unforgettable character beautifully and engagingly presented in this can't-stop-reading biography.

The man who specialized in the larger-than-life led an extraordinary life himself. Growing up in a community of extreme practical jokers, young Taylor learned the power of storytelling and used it to his advantage (and the wonder of others) as he grew up. Barnum was also incredibly resilient, coming back from bankruptcy, fires, and other defeats to make his fame—ad that of others—even wider. G ...