The kids at school want to know why Becca is wearing glasses and a patch. Instead of telling them she has amblyopia, Becca leads her friends imaginative adventures to explain her new fashion accessory. Mitch Vane's illustrations capture the spunky exuberance of this resourceful heroine.
Amiqqaq is excited when his family catches a bowhead whale. As his family prepares to celebrate the traditional Iñupiaq whaling feast, Amiqqaq learns about the spirit-of-the-whale.
Priscilla is only four years old when her mother is sold to another master. All Priscilla has to remember her mother by are the hollyhocks she planted by the cow pond. At age ten, Priscilla is sold to a Cherokee famiily and continues her life as a slave. She keeps hope for a better life alive by planting hollyhocks wherever she goes. At last, her forced march along the Trail of Tears brings a chance encounter that leads to her freedom. Includes an author's note with more details about this fascinating true story as well as instructions for making hollyhock dolls.
Will she be an artist? A cook? A writer? Sara Mee is turning one, and her family and friends gather for her tol, or first-birthday celebration. Food and presents abound, but most exciting of all is the traditional Korean prophecy game, called the toljabee, which predicts what Sara Mee will be when she grows up. A book for all cultures, What Will You Be, Sara Mee? celebrates siblings, community, and the blending of traditions. This book is good for your brain because: Multicultural, World History, Korean Traditions & Customs
5,000 years ago in ancient Mesopotamia during a terrible drought, Jomar and Zefa's father must send his children away to the city of Ur because he can no longer feed them. At fourteen, Jomar is old enough to apprentice with Sidah, a master goldsmith for the temple of the moongod, but there is no place for Zefa in Sidah's household. Zefa, a talented but untrained musician, is forced to play her music and sing for alms on the streets of Ur.
Located in Scandinavia in Northern Europe, Sweden experiences some very cold weather. Many polar bears call Sweden home! In addition to the wildlife of Sweden, this title introduces readers to the physical geography of Sweden, its traditions and customs, and how Swedes live from day to day. Blastoff! Series
A country of open fields, Ireland is known for its agriculture. It is also known for its unique step dancing and St. Patrick's Day celebrations. This book teaches children about life in a country of lush, green land and lively, laid-back people. Blastoff! Series
Israel is a country with deep religious roots. It is considered the homeland of the Jewish people. In this book, young readers will be introduced to Israel's devout people, historic landmarks, and foods that create an interesting and unique cultural heritage. Blastoff! Series
Boasting some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world, Thailand is located in Southeast Asia. It has many beaches that attract tourists from all parts of the globe. Kids will learn about the cultural traditions of Thailand, what everyday life is like for Thais, and much more in this informative book. Blastoff! Series
Brazil is the largest country in South America and the fifth largest and most populated country in the world. The Amazon Rainforest in Brazil has the greatest biological diversity of any ecosystem on the planet. Students will learn all about Brazilian culture and get a glimpse into what kids do for fun in Brazil, especially discovering the country's love for soccer. Blastoff! Series
America's northern neighbor, Canada, is similar to the United States in many ways but also very different. Kids will learn about Canada's diverse wildlife as well as some of its biggest cities such as Toronto and Vancouver. They will read about what school is like for kids in Canada, how people often speak both English and French, and how Canadians enjoy playing hockey. Blastoff! Series
Cuba is a group of several islands. Long ago, one of the islands was called Treasure Island because it was a home base for many Caribbean pirates. Young readers will learn about life in modern Cuba - the school system, the delicious food, and the vibrancy of Cuban culture. Blastoff! Series
The Queen is England’s most recognizable symbol. Her Royal Guards stand at attention to protect London’s famous Buckingham Palace. In this book, young readers will discover the landmarks, traditions, and food of a country known for sophistication and afternoon tea.
France's most famous icon is the Eiffel Tower. This tower in Paris is the height of an 81-story building and ranks as the most visited monument in the world! This book introduces children to the classic beauty, revolutionary people, and fine foods of a country known for the arts. Blastoff! Series
India is the place to see the stunning Taj Mahal and a breathtaking view of some of the world's tallest peaks. The Himalayas extend along the country's northern border. Children will learn all about India, a country known for mountains, curry, and the world's second largest population. Blastoff! Series
Sticking out into the Mediterranean Sea, Italy has some of the nicest weather in Europe. It is famous for its art, architecture, and cuisine. Readers will discover the physical geography of Italy through descriptions of the landscape, waters, and coasts. They will also learn about the cultural geography of Italy, reading about Italian schools, businesses, and communities. Blastoff! Series
Mexico has almost 6,000 miles of coastline. It borders both the Atlantic and the Pacific Oceans. Readers will discover the diverse physical features of Mexico, the variety of wildlife it boasts on land and in water, and what everyday life is like in both urban and rural settings. Blastoff! Series
Moscow's Red Square is a center of Russian history and culture. This book explores the physical and cultural geography of Russia, showing the reader what daily life is like in Russia and how Russians keep their cultural traditions alive in the modern world. Blastoff! Series
Ever feel like you need a nap in the afternoon? Spain is famous for its cultural tradition of the siesta. For a few hours every afternoon, people go home from work to nap! Kids will learn about the land and water features of Spain and the traditions, cuisine, and everyday life of its people.
Jackie Robinson used determination to achieve his dream. Children will be encouraged to dream as they learn how Jackie worked hard to become the first African-American in Major League Baseball. Blastoff! Series
Rosa Parks lived her life courageously. She refused to change bus seats because she was African-American. Children will discover the bravery of Rosa Parks during a time of racial segregation. Blastoff! Series
When four friends head off to the park, each is reminded of a rule for fun and safety when using their wheels!
How will the judges decide who is top dog? Will it be the spotted Dalmatian? Or will it be the furry dog, the round dog, the black or the white one? We all see what’s best through our own experiences and our own uniquenesses. It’s good to be you! AWARDS: Mom's Choice Award and Reader's Choice Award
Phillis Wheatley was the first black person in America to have a book published, opening the door for other black writers and female authors. She was kidnapped and brought to the colonies as a child and served as a slave to a family in Boston. Phillis learned to read and write at a young age.
The American Indian culture consisted of specific customs and traditions that regulated everything from who would lead the tribes to who would marry within the tribes. They kept precise, detailed accounts of their tribal histories because they foresaw the importance of passing down their histories.
