Books

FROM SARAH:

This book begins like a nature guide and quickly devolves into chaos...in the best way possible. If you need a laugh (and honestly, who doesn't?), pick up a copy of this gem at your local library or bookstore. You won't be disappointed, I promise.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

An absurdly laugh-out-loud funny picture book about the villainy of fish, illustrated by National Book Award-winning creator Dan Santat.

FROM SARAH:

You either enjoy Roald Dahl or you don't... and this book is as good a place to find out which camp you belong in. Heads-up, I'm a fan of most of Dahl's books, but when I read them aloud, I tend to modify some of the language. 😅

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Sophie and BFG (a bone-crunching giant) are the only ones who can save the children of England, but they’ll have to battle a lot of mean giants to keeps everyone safe.

FROM SARAH:

Lauded by many as some of the best American books of all time for children, the Little House series is based on Laura Ingalls Wilder's real life. I prefer to listen to these on audio (narrated by Cherry Jones) rather than reading them aloud. Highly, highly recommended for all ages. Also wonderful on audio (Audible | LibroFM).

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

The first in Laura’s story about her family of American pioneers. Join the Ingalls family as they celebrate Christmas and the harvest and their first trip to town.

FROM SARAH:

Not as scary as the movie, this is a fabulous read-aloud for a wide range of ages. Also wonderful on audio (Audible | LibroFM).

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

The story chronicles the adventures of a young girl named Dorothy Gale in the Land of Oz, after being swept away from her Kansas farm home in a cyclone. The novel is one of the best-known stories in American popular culture and has been widely translated. Its initial success, and the success of the 1902 Broadway musical which Baum adapted from his original story, led to Baum's writing thirteen additional Oz books.

FROM SARAH:

Boys just absolutely adore this classic series. Worth owning for your permanent collection.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Billy loves horses more than anything else in the world, and what he wants most is his own pony. Full of beautiful illustrations and sweet relationships.

FROM SARAH: 

This is the perfect early chapter book series for kids who love a good mystery! I'd recommend it for newly independent readers who need some extra picture support, but are ready to tackle more text on the page.

FROM THE PUBLISHER

FROM SARAH:

You can't help but giggle when you read about the wacky adventures of Calvin and Hobbes. Share this one with the kiddo who brings their own delightful chaos to every ordinary situation, and remember that life would be oh-so-boring without them!

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Beginning with the day Hobbes sprang into Calvin's tuna fish trap, the first two Calvin and Hobbes collections, Calvin and Hobbes and Something Under The Bed Is Drooling, are brought together in this treasury. Including black-and-white dailies and color Sundays, The Essential Calvin and Hobbes also features an original full-color 16-page story.

FROM SARAH:

A classic graphic novel created in 1929, The Adventures of Tintin introduces readers to a courageous young journalist and his trusty side-kick as they go on wild and wonderful adventures. It's perfect for ages 8 and up and especially wonderful for reluctant or struggling readers who appreciate lots of illustrations supporting the text.

FROM PUBLISHER:

Join traveling reporter Tintin and his faithful dog Snowy, along with well-known friends such as Captain Haddock, as they embark on extraordinary adventures spanning historical and political events, fantasy and science-fiction adventures and thrilling mysteries. These full-color graphic novels broke new ground when they were first released and became the inspiration for countless modern-day comic artists.

From SARAH:

The Magic Treehouse series is perfect for newly independent readers, with a delightful mix of fantasy and facts that inspire kids to keep turning the pages. Vivid illustrations and predictable plot lines make it a wonderful first chapter-book series for kids who are ready for the next step in their reading journey!

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Where did the tree house come from? Before Jack and Annie can find out, the mysterious tree house whisks them to the prehistoric past. Now they have to figure out how to get home. Can they do it before dark…or will they become a dinosaur’s dinner?

The Magic Tree House series has been a beloved favorite for over 25 years and is sure to inspire a love of reading—and adventure—in every child who joins Jack and Annie!

FROM SARAH:

Did you catch Mr. Erickson in one of our author events? Boys especially seem to love these hilarious misadvetnures of a working dog on a ranch. Best enjoyed as audiobooks.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

The popular Hank the Cowdog series is based on the humorous antics of the canine Head of Ranch Security. In this first book, Hank and his little buddy, Drover, set out to solve a series of baffling murders on the ranch. Is Hank a suspect? An Outlaw? Can he clear his good name?

FROM SARAH:

This is the series that turned my struggling reader into a voracious one. I read the first book aloud and then ran out of "time" to read the rest... so he read them himself. ;)

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Leroy Brown, boy detective, not only solves his own cases -- he also occasionally helps out his policeman dad with the biggest mysteries in Idaville.

FROM SARAH:

Simple mystery stories that will pull your little ones right in. Kids will agree that Nate really is, well … great!

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Nate, with the cool detachment of a Sam Spade, immediately plunges into his new and baffling case. Gatting all the facts, asking the right questions, narrowing down the suspects. Nate, the boy detective who "likes to work alone, " solves the mystery and tracks down the culprit. In the process he also discovers the whereabouts of Super Hex, the missing cat.

FROM SARAH:

Oh my goodness, I just don't think read-alouds get much funnier than Mercy Watson. 😂 These are definitely a taste thing, because my husband is not a fan. I could read them aloud over and over all day! The entire series is loads of fun. Excellent for reading aloud with a wide range of ages from 3-12.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

To Mr. and Mrs. Watson, Mercy is not just a pig — she's a porcine wonder. Welcome to the wry and endearing world of Mercy Watson — an ebullient character for early chapter-book readers in a series that's destined to be a classic.

FROM SARAH

The updated and expanded version of the awesome original, this book can absorb a child for hours as they learn - you guessed it - how stuff works, from jackhammers to digital cameras.

FROM THE PUBLISHER

From levers to lasers, from cameras to computers, this 384-page volume is a remarkable overview of the machines and inventions that shape our lives, amusingly presented with a large dose of Macaulay's wit and personality.

FROM SARAH:

I think most everyone knows about this series by now, but juuuuuust in case it slipped your radar: yes, you want to read it. Oh, and so do your kids. ;)

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

"Are you a gifted child looking for special opportunities?" When Reynie Muldoon answers an ad looking for gifted children, he soon meets fascinating friends and finds himself on an adventure that will change his life... and quite possibly the world. First in a fantastic series.

FROM SARAH

It’s such a boring summer, so when Jane finds a coin, she wishes something exciting would happen. Of course, it does! A funny and classic family tale for all ages.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

It all begins with a strange coin on a sun-warmed sidewalk. Jane finds the coin, and because she and her siblings are having the worst, most dreadfully boring summer ever, she idly wishes something exciting would happen. And something does: Her wish is granted. Or not quite. Only half of her wish comes true.

FROM SARAH:

Did you read this one as a kid? Your kids will still love it just as much (and if you haven't read it yet, you're in for a treat!). When Claudia Kincaid decides to run away, she and her brother end up at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, only to get caught up in a mystery that makes headlines.

FROM THE PUBLISHERS:

When Claudia decided to run away, she planned very carefully. She would be gone just long enough to teach her parents a lesson in Claudia appreciation. And she would go in comfort-she would live at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. She saved her money, and she invited her brother Jamie to go, mostly because be was a miser and would have money.

Claudia was a good organizer and Jamie bad some ideas, too; so the two took up residence at the museum right on schedule. But once the fun of settling in was over, Claudia had two unexpected problems: She felt just the same, and she wanted to feel different; and she found a statue at the Museum so beautiful she could not go home until she bad discovered its maker, a question that baffled the experts, too.

FROM SARAH:

I love a strong, resilient heroine who finds the strength to persevere even in the face of big obstacles. This inspiring tale brings history to life, depicting the struggles and determination of three siblings who are willing to cross an ocean to find their way to their father. This one is perfect for readers who love historical fiction, family bonds, and stories of quiet strength.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Featuring a heroine with faith, courage, and a great deal of grit, this acclaimed historical fiction novel portrays the realities faced by three children hoping to find a new home in an unknown land. Amanda Freebold doesn't know what to do. Her father left three years ago for the new colony of Jamestown in America, thousands of miles away. But now that her mother has died, Amanda is left to take care of her younger brother and sister all alone back in England.

As the new head of the family, Amanda finally decides to take her brother and sister to America to find Father. The ocean crossing is long and hard, and the children don't know whom to trust. But with her father's little brass lion's head to guard them, Amanda knows that somehow everything will work out.

FROM SARAH:

Mrs. Frisby leads us into a world of courage, sacrifice and scientific wonder. A timeless tale of bravery and ingenuity, this Newbery Medal-winning classic blends heart, mystery, and adventure in a story that continues to captivate readers since its publication in 1971. I'd recommend it for ages 9 and up, with a little head's up for scenes depicting illness and the loss of some characters.

FROM PUBLISHER:

Mrs. Frisby, a widowed mouse with four small children, is faced with a terrible problem. She must move her family to their summer quarters immediately, or face almost certain death. But her youngest son, Timothy, lies ill with pneumonia and must not be moved.

Fortunately, she encounters the rats of NIMH, an extraordinary breed of highly intelligent creatures, who come up with a brilliant solution to her dilemma. And Mrs. Frisby in turn renders them a great service.

FROM SARAH:

Captain Sager leads his family across the Oregon Trail as they deal with animals, sickness and many big decisions.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

The epic journey of the Sager children by covered wagon from Missouri to Oregon in 1848.

FROM SARAH:

If you loved Tuck Everlasting, this savory tale by Natalie Babbit is sure to be your next favorite. It's gentle enough for young listeners but charming enough to engage big kids, too. It might even inspire your own family to hunt for delicious things!

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Gaylen, the King's messenger, a skinny boy of twelve, is off to poll the kingdom, traveling from town to farmstead to town on his horse, Marrow. At first it is merely a question of disagreement at the royal castle over which food should stand for Delicious in the new dictionary. But soon it seems that the search for Delicious had better succeed if civil war is to be avoided.

Gaylen's quest leads him to the woldweller, a wise, 900-year-old creature who lives alone at the precise center of the forest; to Canto, the minstrel who sings him an old song about a mermaid child and who gives him a peculiar good-luck charm; to the underground domain of the dwarfs; and finally to Ardis who might save the kingdom from havoc.

FROM SARAH:

We loved the story of this quirky homeschool and the boy who desperately needs it! (Heads-up that there is an adult side-character who reads cards.)

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Jake Semple is notorious. Rumor has it he managed to get kicked out of every school in Rhode Island, and actually burned the last one down to the ground. Only one place will take him now, and that's a homeschool run by the Applewhites, a chaotic and hilarious family of artists: poet Lucille, theater director Randolph, dancer Cordelia, and dreamy Destiny. The only one who doesn't fit the Applewhite mold is E.D.—a smart, sensible girl who immediately clashes with the defiant Jake.

FROM SARAH: 

This classic story of found family reminds us that even the coldest days can be warmed by kindness. A perfect winter family read-aloud, I'd recommend this one for ages 8 and up.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Armand likes his life as a Hobo living under the bridges of Paris, and the last thing he needs is anything remotely connected to responsibility. So when a family moves under the bridge with him and threatens to steal his heart, how will Armand handle it? Excellent for all ages.

FROM SARAH:

Hands-down one of the best read-alouds in our family. We love it every time.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

A fantastic place to start with the many funny, quick reads by Andrew Clements. Nick isn't exactly a troublemaker; he just likes to keep things interesting! What starts out as a simple game turns into a city-wide uproar. What starts out as a lighthearted read turns out to be a powerfully moving story. Delightful.

FROM SARAH:

A historical adventure that inspires hope, courage, and a love for nature.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

When 13-year-old Matt means a boy from the Beaver clan, he begins to understand more about living in the wilderness in the 1700s. A Newberry Honor winner.

FROM SARAH:

Harriet is more than an observant, hopeful young writer; she is a girl navigating the complexities of growing up, the challenge of maintaining friendships, and the hard work of asking for forgiveness. This one is a classic for a reason- it's heartfelt and charming, honest and endearing. I'd recommend it for readers 10 and up.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Harriet M. Welsch is a spy. In her notebook, she writes down everything she knows about everyone, even her classmates and her best friends. Then Harriet loses track of her notebook, and it ends up in the wrong hands. Before she can stop them, her friends have read the always truthful, sometimes awful things she’s written about each of them. Will Harriet find a way to put her life and her friendships back together?

FROM SARAH:

More than 40 years old, Watership Down continues to be a classic. Two brothers lead the surge against the invasion of man and the destruction of their home. Spoiler alert: The brothers are rabbits. Who talk.

Recommended Ages: 12+

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

A worldwide bestseller for over thirty years, Watership Down is one of the most beloved novels of all time. Set in England’s Downs, a once idyllic rural landscape, this stirring tale follows a band of very special creatures on their flight from the intrusion of man and the certain destruction of their home. Led by a stouthearted pair of brothers, they journey from their native Sandleford Warren, through the harrowing trials posed by predators and adversaries, and toward the dream of a mysterious promised land and a more perfect society.

FROM SARAH:

Written by two of the “dozen,” the Gilbreth’s share their childhood memories growing up with 10 other siblings, and an efficiency expert father who thinks everything is easier done en masse, including getting the kids’ tonsils removed.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Translated into more than fifty languages, Cheaper by the Dozen is the unforgettable story of the Gilbreth clan as told by two of its members. In this endearing, amusing memoir, siblings Frank Jr. and Ernestine capture the hilarity and heart of growing up in an oversized family.

FROM SARAH:

A classic that was first published in 1880, the Peppers have fallen on hard times. But the little Peppers band together to help their mother. Lovely language!

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

A favorite of children, parents, and teachers for generations, this heartwarming classic first appeared in 1880. Since then, it has inspired countless young imaginations with its tender tales of the ways in which courage and good cheer can overcome adversity.

FROM SARAH

Four short mysteries starring the sweet Father Brown. Kids will love the subtle action, and trying to figure out whodunnit!

FROM THE PUBLISHER

Adaptations of 4 of Chesterton's Father Brown mysteries for young readers: "The Blue Cross," "The Strange Feet," "The Flying Stars," and "The Absence of Mr. Glass."

FROM SARAH:

Kendra and Seth visit their grandparents, having no idea that their grandfather is the caretaker of Fablehaven, a hidden refuge for mystical creatures to prevent their extinction. Will keep you turning pages! Watch the author talk about writing this book in his Author Access replay in RAR Premium.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

For centuries, mystical creatures of all description were gathered to a hidden refuge called Fablehaven to prevent their extinction. The sanctuary survives today as one of the last strongholds of true magic in a cynical world. Enchanting? Absolutely. Exciting? You bet. Safe? Well, actually, quite the opposite...

FROM SARAH:

A clever sixteen-year-old heroine is out to uncover some buried family secrets in this Young Adult historical novel. Romance is a key plot point, but it's innocent and charming, appropriate for readers 15 and up.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Newly orphaned Peggy Grahame is caught off-guard when she first arrives at her family’s ancestral estate. Her eccentric uncle Enos drives away her only new acquaintance, Pat, a handsome British scholar, then leaves Peggy to fend for herself. But she is not alone. The house is full of mysteries—and ghosts. Soon Peggy becomes involved with the spirits of her own Colonial ancestors and witnesses the unfolding of a centuries-old romance against a backdrop of spies and intrigue and of battles plotted and foiled. History has never been so exciting—especially because the ghosts are leading Peggy to a romance of her own!

FROM SARAH:

Fun fact: this is the series that first inspired Karina Yan Glaser to write her modern Vanderbeeker series! If you'd like, pair it with the All-of-a-Kind Family Hanukkah picture book.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Meet the All-of-a-Kind Family. Together they share adventures that find them searching for hidden buttons while dusting Mama's front parlor and visiting with the peddlers in Papa's shop on rainy days. The girls enjoy doing everything together, especially when it involves holidays and surprises. But no one could have prepared them for the biggest surprise of all!

FROM SARAH:

Told from the perspective for 4-year-old Bonnie (the youngest in the family), this cute series of stories features a look at family life in Kentucky in the early 1900s. Happy Little Family is the first in the series.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Bonnie is more than ready to join her older sisters and brother in the many adventures she sees come their way, whether it be sliding along the ice, searching for arrowheads, or going on that journey of all journeys-across the swinging bridge to school. Winter or summer, something is always happening in the Fairchild house, tucked amidst the pine trees of the Kentucky hills one hundred years ago or more.

FROM SARAH:

The first book from Kate Dicamillo . . . and it's still my favorite of them all! A fabulous read-aloud for ages 7-14, especially if you've got dog lovers.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

India Opal is at the grocery store when she makes a new friend -- a dog she names Winn Dixie (after the store, of course!). Winn Dixie helps Opal navigate Naomi, Florida, and find the inner courage to learn about her mom who left when she was 3.

FROM SARAH:

It's a classic for a reason! Introduce your child the wonderful world of Beatrix Potter with this most famous tale of a naughty rabbit, a grumpy farmer, and a tantalizing garden.

FROM THE PUBLISHER: 

The Tale of Peter Rabbit was first published by Frederick Warne in 1902 and endures as Beatrix Potter's most popular and well-loved tale. It tells the story of a very mischievous rabbit and the trouble he encounters in Mr. McGregor's vegetable garden!

FROM SARAH:

There are not words to convey just how much I adore this entire series. If I was pressed to name my all-time favorite book, I'd probably name this one. I read it aloud with all of my kids, and my boys loved it every bit as much as my girls did. Highly recommended. (Audible | LibroFM)

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

The Cuthberts are expecting a boy to help work on their farm, Green Gables. Instead, they get “Anne with an e,” who will surely win girls’ hearts with her spunky personality and big imagination.

FROM SARAH:

Nine-year-old Ruth works to overcome her temper in this book about God’s love and mercy set at the scenic Tanglewood property. (First in a series.)

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Ruth and her beloved brother Philip find solace in the expanse of the Tanglewoods' property. There they escape into bird watching, climbing, and general misadventures with their friend Terry.

FROM SARAH:

This one comes up again and again in podcast episodes! The first in Ralph Moody’s autobiographical series, this is a wonderful father-son story. Note: Does contain a few mature words that begin with H and D.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Ralph Moody was eight years old in 1906 when his family moved from New Hampshire to a Colorado ranch. Through his eyes we experience the pleasures and perils of ranching there early in the twentieth century. Auctions and roundups, family picnics, irrigation wars, tornadoes and wind storms give authentic color to Little Britches. So do adventures, wonderfully told, that equip Ralph to take his father's place when it becomes necessary.

FROM SARAH:

Elizabeth Ann must leave her home to move to rural Vermont and live with relatives. She needs a little extra care, though, so will anyone there understand her? If you're a homeschooling family, you'll especially love this one! (The characters are 👌🏼.)

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Thanks to her loving but over-protective guardian aunts, Betsy is a fearful, self-absorbed, nine-year-old hypochondriac. One of the most terrible items on her long list of fears is the horrid cousins her aunts never mention without shuddering. When her aunts are suddenly no longer able to care for her, Betsy is, incredibly, sent to live with those very relatives.

FROM SARAH: 

An afternoon with Mary Poppins is sure to make the ordinary into something magical, with a carpet bag full of surprises and (slightly stern) charm. Although this Mary differs from her movie counterpart, I think you'll find every minute with her nothing less than enchanting.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

FROM SARAH:

The obvious recommendation. If your teen hasn't read this yet, it's time! :)

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Frodo and his pals set out on a journey to find the Ruling Ring. Will the Hobbits’ friendships be enough to keep them safe?

FROM SARAH:

A classic story of friendship starring Toad, Rat, Mole and Badger, this river tale is a wonderful read-aloud full of big personalities. (Except for Mole, who is a little shy.)

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Wind in the Willows by Kenneth Grahame. Far from fading with time, Kenneth Grahame's classic tale of fantasy has attracted a growing audience in each generation.

FROM SARAH:

One of my all-time favorite classics; it just never gets old! My boys especially love this one. Read it and then watch the Shirley Temple movie to compare! Also great on audio (Audible I Libro.FM).

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Everyone is scared of Heidi’s grandfather, but when she moves to the Alps to live with him her sunny personality helps them form a connection. Soon, however, they are separated. Will they reunite? This classic is an excellent read-aloud for all ages.

FROM SARAH:

I love children's books that offer wisdom for readers of any age. Part allegory, part fairy tale, this tender classic reminds us that what matters most is not always what is seen, but what is felt.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

In this book like no other, a little prince serves as a guide for a pilot whose plane goes down in the Sahara Desert. A bit fairy tale, a bit fantasy, this book is much more than it seems and filled with complex lessons.

FROM SARAH:

Inspired by a true story, this quietly powerful chapter book is full of grit, trust and bravery that blooms when a child faces the wilderness with a heart wide open. It's a perfect independent read for kids that are ready for more text on the page, but not quite ready to read longer novels on their own.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

In 1707, young Sarah Noble and her father traveled through the wilderness to build a new home for their family. “Keep up your courage, Sarah Noble,” her mother had said, but Sarah found that it was not always easy to feel brave inside. The dark woods were full of animals and Indians, too, and Sarah was only eight!

The true story of Sarah’s journey is inspiring. And as she cares for her father and befriends her Indian neighbors, she learns that to be afraid and to be brave is the greatest courage of all.

FROM SARAH:

The March sisters are each distinctive in their own way, but they band together to help their mother while their father is serving in the Civil War. We selected this book for our summer 2023 Mama Book Club pick. RAR Premium members can access the Mama Book Club Guide here.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Grown-up Meg, tomboyish Jo, timid Beth, and precocious Amy. The four March sisters couldn't be more different. But with their father away at war, and their mother working to support the family, they have to rely on one another. Whether they're putting on a play, forming a secret society, or celebrating Christmas, there's one thing they can't help wondering: Will Father return home safely?

FROM SARAH: 

Equal parts witty and whimsical, this fantasy blends satire and suspense with a dash of nonsense to create a captivating read. I'd recommend it for readers 12 and up who love quirky fairy tales full of lively characters.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

The hands of all thirteen clocks stand still in the gloomy castle on a lonely hill where a wicked Duke lives with his niece, the beautiful Princess Saralinda. The Duke fancies he has frozen time, for he is afraid that one day a Prince may come and win away the hand of the Princess—the only warm hand in the castle. To thwart that fate, he sets impossible tasks for Saralinda’s suitors. But when the bold Prince Zorn of Zorna arrives, disguised as a wandering minstrel, and helped by the enigmatic Golux, the cold Duke may at last have met his match.

FROM SARAH:

Be sure to have a full box of tissues nearby when you open this one! Kate DiCamillo brings her signature charm and stunning prose to another classic-in-the-making. Equal parts heartbreaking and hopeful, I'd recommend it for ages 8 and up.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Once, in a house on Egypt Street, there lived a china rabbit named Edward Tulane. The rabbit was very pleased with himself, and for good reason: he was owned by a girl named Abilene, who treated him with the utmost care and adored him completely. And then, one day, he was lost. Kate DiCamillo takes us on an extraordinary journey, from the depths of the ocean to the net of a fisherman, from the top of a garbage heap to the fireside of a hoboes' camp, from the bedside of an ailing child to the bustling streets of Memphis. And along the way, we are shown a true miracle — that even a heart of the most breakable kind can learn to love, to lose, and to love again.

FROM SARAH:

Meg and her brother Charles are viewed as unintelligent, especially compared to their brilliant parents, one of whom has disappeared. Did he really leave their family, or was it perhaps a wrinkle in time? The 1963 Newberry Award winner.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

It was a dark and stormy night; Meg Murry, her small brother Charles Wallace, and her mother had come down to the kitchen for a midnight snack when they were upset by the arrival of a most disturbing stranger.

FROM SARAH:

Fantasy your kids won't want to put down. My two fantasy-lovers both loved this whole series.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Originally published in 1964, this three-book series follows “Taran the Assistant Pig-Keeper” on his quest to become a hero. Filled with references to Welsh mythology and lots of humor.

FROM SARAH:

One of my favorite novels for Revolutionary American history. This is what I read with my kids before we took a trip to Boston to visit all the historical sites. I think it's enjoyed best by kids age 9+.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

After injuring his hand, a silversmith's apprentice in Boston becomes a messenger for the Sons of Liberty in the days before the American Revolution.

FROM SARAH:

A book to inspire courage and independent thinking in your youngsters. I especially love reading this (short!) book with my boys.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Edward has been left at home to protect his mother and sister, while his father is away watching for a raid from the north. Both the French and the Indians are true threats in New York in 1756, but Edward has a weapon -- his father’s matchlock gun. Note: Edward’s mother is injured in the book, and Native Americans are killed.

FROM SARAH:

The story of the boy who will grow up to marry Laura, Farmer Boy tells of Almanzo and his family, who live on a farm in upstate New York. Based on a true story, of course! (You can read this Little House on the Prairie book out of order—it's a great introduction to the rest of the series, especially for boys.)

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

This is Laura Ingalls Wilder's beloved story of how her husband, Almanzo, grew up as a farmer boy far from the little house where Laura lived.

FROM SARAH:

Set in 15th-century England, this stirring novel is rich with medieval atmosphere and vivid illustrations. Because it's a coming-of-age story and deals with some difficult moral dilemmas, I'd recommend it for readers 12 and up.

FROM PUBLISHER: 

Written and Illustrated by the incomparable Howard Pyle, Men of Iron is the story of a young squire, Myles Falworth, growing up n the 15th century as he seeks not just to become a knight, but also redeem his father’s honor. With chapters full of vivid detail, Pyle masterfully combines historical realism with a captivating fictional story.The reader will experience Myles’ adventures, share his troubles, fight his battles and rejoice in his victories as if they had been transported through the centuries are were really by his side. This edition is complete with all the original illustrations by the author.

FROM SARAH:

Some of my kids liked this classic even better than Little House on the Prairie... and that's saying something! Caddie is one of six siblings, and her story is based on the life of the author's real grandmother. Adventures abound.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Based on stories of the author’s grandmother, Caddie loves hunting and pranks, but refuses to be a “lady.” Set in Wisconsin in the late 1800s, Little House fans will love Caddie!

FROM SARAH:

This one is a rip-roaring Gold Rush adventure that is truly hilarious, perfect for readers who love survival stories with a (large) helping of humor. It's filled with historical facts and fast-paced escapades stretching all the way from Boston to California.

FROM PUBLISHER:
Jack’s aunt is in trouble. Even after she sells her beloved mansion, she still doesn’t have enough money to pay off all her debts or, more importantly, to take care of twelve-year-old Jack and his two sisters. Luckily Jack has a plan! He’s going to strike gold. Setting out from Boston with his stuffy but trusty butler, Praiseworthy, the two of them stow away on a ship bound for California—and the Gold Rush. Along the way they’ll meet sailors, miners, outlaws, and wild animals. But will it all be worth it when they strike it rich?

FROM SARAH:

The classic tale, still as wonderful as it was when you were a kid. :)

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

When Sam leaves his family’s New York City apartment, he travels all the way to the Catskill Mountains where he survives in a hollowed-out tree, and finds independence and freedom.

FROM SARAH:

I love a girl with "a grand spirit", and Rebecca does not disappoint. Charming, witty, and brimming with the warmth of small-town life, this beloved classic celebrates the power of kindness, creativity, and a well-timed belly laugh.

FROM PUBLISHER:

FROM SARAH:

Emily is rumored to be Lucy Maud Montgomery's favorite character of all of the ones she wrote! Rich with the rhythms of nature and the trials of growing up, this novel is a celebration of resilience and courage in the face of great loss. Head's up that it deals heavily with the death of a parent.

FROM PUBLISHER:

Emily Starr has never known what it is to be unloved. But when her father dies, she is left in the care of her mother's family. Emily is a stranger to the proud Murrays, none of whom think they can cope with such a heartbroken, headstrong girl. They decide to draw lots for her, and Emily is sent to live at New Moon with stern Aunt Elizabeth, the head of the clan. Kind Aunt Laura and friendly, eccentric Cousin Jimmy also live at New Moon, though, so she is not without hope.