When ten-year-old Journey Song hears that two pandas are being held in a warehouse in her neighborhood, she worries that they may be hungry, cold and lonely. Horrified to learn that the pandas, originally destined for a zoo in Washington, might be shipped back to China because of a diplomatic spat between China and the United States, Journey rallies her friends and neighbors on the poverty-stricken Eastside. Her infectious enthusiasm for all things panda is hard to resist, and soon she's getting assistance from every corner of her tight-knit neighborhood.
People have reported hearing footsteps and seeing shadowy figures at prisons that have been empty for years. Could phantom inmates still roam the halls? Read eerie stories from famous prisons to decide for yourself in this title for reluctant readers.
Scientists estimate that about 500,000 detectable earthquakes shake the earth each year. But the majority of them go unnoticed, as most register at the bottom of the 8.0+ magnitude scale. In this hi-lo title, kids will learn how to react to the dangerous quakes that can be felt.
Goosebumps and giggles. R.L. Stine’s talent is in writing books that cause these reactions. He sets out to make reading a suspenseful or laughworthy experience. In this title, young readers will follow the major plot twist of Stine’s writing career, his shift from joke books to horror stories.
Ayla loves climbing. But she prefers to climb indoors, with all her safety harnesses in place and soft mats to land on. Her climbing partner and best friend, Lissy, is much more adventurous and loves the outdoors. When Lissy starts hanging out with Carlos, the new thrill-seeking guy in town, Ayla wants to keep an eye on her and finds herself tagging along on a weekend climbing trip up Black Dog Mountain. But things go very wrong when Lissy and her dad, the only adult in the group, are badly injured high on the side of the mountain. Suddenly the risks of climbing become very real. Ayla and Carlos need to figure out how to get help, and every decision they make could have catastrophic consequences.
According to Mattel, eight Hot Wheels are sold every second. So what is the secret behind the toy cars’ appeal? In this biography of a brand, growing readers will learn why the production of Hot Wheels has stayed strong since the cars' first release in the 1960s.
Making use of physical strength and high-tech gear, military groups like the Delta Force and Navy SEALs fight to defeat terrorism around the world. Soldiers of counterterrorism missions protect people from fear and violence. They rescue prisoners, interrupt enemy plans, and dismantle terrorist operations around the world. In this introductory book, young readers will learn about the history of terrorism and the ways in which military missions succeed in protecting lives.
The elegant houses of the wealthy may hold more than just expensive things. Some are said to be home to ghosts! Reluctant readers will love reading the famous ghost stories from lavish locales in this spooky book.
In Floods, early fluent readers learn about the conditions that lead to and result from catastrophic flooding. Vibrant, full-color photos and carefully leveled text engage young readers as they learn about the deadliest floods and what they can do to prepare for these disasters. An infographic illustrates areas of the world at risk for flooding, and an activity offers kids an opportunity to extend discovery. Children can learn more about floods using our safe search engine that provides relevant, age-appropriate websites. Floods also features reading tips for teachers and parents, a table of contents, a glossary, and an index.
Led by coach Sid Gillman, the San Diego Chargers won division championships in five of their first six seasons! With their gold bolt proudly showing, the Chargers take the field and face off against the Oakland Raiders, a rival since 1960! Struggling readers can take charge and learn more about the San Diego Chargers in this fun title.
As a frequent Super Bowl competitor, the New England Patriots are a formidable franchise! In 2001, head coach Bill Belichick played quarterback Tom Brady, who at the time was only a sixth-round draft pick. Since then, the team has been successful, including a 16-game season without any losses. Active minds will enjoy this book on the New England Patriots.
As the “Queen of Dairy”, DQ captures the hearts and bellies of ice cream lovers worldwide. Dairy Queen began by selling soft serve ice cream cones with a curl on top. Soon, malts, shakes, banana splits, and more treats were added to the menu. Today, DQ has more than 6,000 stores that offer a variety of items, from thick Blizzards to crispy Chicken Strip Baskets. Readers will enjoy learning about Dairy Queen's history in this flavorful title for eager minds.
Secrecy is of the utmost importance in completing reconnaissance missions. Soldiers must be experts with binoculars. They move swiftly and silently to gather information about enemy weapons, territories, and operations. Learn more about the speed and intelligence of these stealthy men and women in this leveled text for beginning and reluctant readers.
Fishing for barracuda from a kayak in the Florida Keys. That's what Jim Webb thinks this resort vacation with his grandfather should be about. Except the dying resort owner holds the key to legend about a generations-old crime, a crime that is worth way too much to those who want the legend to be true. Webb soon discovers that what lurks in the sun, sand and shallow waters of the Keys is much more dangerous than a slashing game fish. And along the way, he learns an important truth about himself and his own past. In this exciting prequel to Devil’s Pass and Tin Soldier, the musically gifted and tenacious Webb finds himself caught in a dangerous mystery.
Tornadoes are the most violent storms on Earth! Their twisting winds flatten houses and uproot trees in minutes. Young readers find out how to tell if a tornado is on its way, where to go, and how to stay safe in this high-interest title.
Lying along the sparkling waters of the Adriatic Sea is the hidden gem of Croatia. From its craggy coast and cascading waterfalls to its delicate lace-making and fast-paced kolo dance, this country is full of natural and cultural beauty. Learn how Croatia’s varied history has shaped it into the independent nation it is today in this title for eager students.
Animals must choose carefully when picking a place to call home. If they move into the wrong neighborhood, danger can be lurking next door. In this title, young readers will tour prairie dog burrows, beaver lodges, chimpanzee nests, and other homes to learn about the importance of location.
Every fire has three ingredients: heat, fuel, and oxygen. And when these ingredients mix inside a house or in a forest, they are often a recipe for danger. This survival guide for young readers calls out the causes of fires and how to best escape the smoke and flames.
The leafy sea dragon and other masters of camouflage blend in so well with their surroundings that they become nearly invisible. Inflatable animals like the puffer fish blow up to the point of shapeshifting. Growing readers will discover how animal adaptations are much like superpowers.
It really seems like Dani's dad has gone around the bend. Ever since Dani's mother died of cancer, all her dad does is stand around on street corners with his crazy signs, proclaiming that processed foods mean the end of the world. The Food Freak, as he is known, has already scared away all of Dani's friends at her old school. But it's a new year, and Dani is at a new school in a different part of town. Maybe things will be better now. Dani just needs to keep her head down and avoid making any friends. That way, nobody will find out about her dad and his insane protests. The plan seems to be working fine until one day Dani meets a boy who helps her see things in a different light.
When the Gladiators basketball team's nasty coach finally gets turfed midseason, things couldn't possibly get worse. The team hasn't won a game yet, and morale is at rock bottom. Sameer, who announces the games and keeps score, and Vijay, the team mascot, have their hands full keeping the team's spirits up. When they get promoted to assistant coach and manager, can they help a small, unathletic, Shakespeare-quoting drama teacher coach the team to victory, or at least to dignity? Or will the courtside drama eclipse even the school play?
The force of an avalanche coming down a mountain is powerful. It can create winds strong enough to smash houses. Some avalanches can reach speeds of 200 miles per hour! In this book, young readers will discover how to predict sliding snow, ice, and rock before it buries them.
A dream became reality for North and South Carolina when they were granted an NFL expansion in 1993. Fireworks exploded over the city of Charlotte as the Panthers won their first game with a bang! Cheer alongside their mascot, Sir Purr, and find out what the Carolina Panthers are capable of in this title for beginning readers.
Since 1920, the Chicago Bears have played over 1,000 games! This resilient franchise also boasts the most players inaugurated into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. George Halas, known as “Papa Bear,” has led the team into many victories not only as a player, but as a coach and team owner, too! Learn more about the Chicago Bears in this inspiring team profile for young audiences.
Presidents of the United States might get some creepy houseguests during their time at the White House—former presidents! Find out which presidents have been sighted haunting their old home and what their unfinished business might be in this high-interest title for young readers.
