Books

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:

‘What will you wear in the morning?’ asks Jesse’s mama. Enjoy the sweet verse while teaching little ones about daily rhythms!

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

What does a little bear wear while he romps through a bright and sunny day? In the morning, his pants that dance, a rose between his toes, and the sun on his legs that run. At lunchtime, an apple to bite and a moustache of white, and juice from a pear and rice in his hair. And at night, his pjs with feet and face on the seat, and sleep in his eyes and stars in the skies, as he dreams of the fun he’ll have tomorrow.

FROM SARAH:

‘Boil, boil, pasta pot -- boil me some pasta nice and hot!’ Strega Nona, Big Anthony and Bambalona work hard, but occasionally need just a little magic. (Lots of fun sequels too!)

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

When Strega Nona leaves him alone with her magic pasta pot, Big Anthony is determined to show the townspeople how it works in this classic Caldecott Honor book from Tomie dePaola.

FROM SARAH:

Silly sound effects and and sheep hijinks make this series a favorite among preschoolers!

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Out for a drive in the country, Nancy Shaw and Margot Apple's well-known and beloved sheep run into some mishaps with their sturdy red jeep.

FROM SARAH:

The third in the series: Grandma’s attic is full of keepsakes and stories. Lesson and morals are woven into these simple tales.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

These tales recount humorous and poignant memories from Grandma Mabel’s childhood. Combining the warmth and spirit of Little House on the Prairie with a Christian focus, these books transport readers back to a simpler time to learn lessons surprisingly relevant in today’s world.

FROM SARAH:

The second in the series: Grandma’s attic is full of keepsakes and stories. Lesson and morals are woven into these simple tales.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

A young girl delights in her grandmother’s stories of days gone by, sparked by keepsakes and simple questions, Grandma shares marvelous stories of mischief , discovery, and laughter, such as a beautiful heart-shaped locket and a curl that cost Grandma more than a lock of hair.

FROM SARAH:

A young girl delights in her grandmother’s stories of days gone by, sparked by keepsakes and simple questions, Grandma shares marvelous stories of mischief , discovery, and laughter, such as the time she accidentally lost the family buggy.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

A young girl delights in her grandmother’s stories of days gone by as, sparked by keepsakes and simple questions, Grandma shares marvelous stories of mischief, discovery, and laughter, such as the time she accidentally lost the family buggy.

FROM SARAH:

Originally published in newspapers in 1958, this collection of mysteries features a retired criminologist who invites the reader to solve a variety of crimes using quick, logic-based puzzles. I'd recommend this one for readers 12 and up (as some of the crimes involve murder), but for younger sleuths, check out Donald's "Encyclopedia Brown" series!

FROM PUBLISHER:

Whether testing their own sleuthing abilities by working against the clock or enjoying the intrigue of unraveling the case, readers get lots of spine-tingling mystery in these thrilling puzzlers.

FROM SARAH:

A compilation of classic fairy tales including some of the most beloved "Fairy Stories" by Andrew Lang, this collection is chocked-full of favorites. Head's up that this edition doesn't contain many illustrations, so it might be better read aloud than handed over.

FROM PUBLISHER:

This collection of historical children's fairy tales, compiled, though not written by Andrew Lang, includes the Blue, Brown, Crimson, Grey, Olive, and Violet fairy books.

FROM SARAH:

The lovely stories of country vet James Herriot. Children will love hearing how Mr. Herriot cares for animals and the people who love them. (Note: There are some animals who do not survive, so heads up if you have sensitive readers!) Wonderful on audio (Audible | LibroFM).

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Children have always found a delightful friend in James Herriot. His award-winning stories for young readers bring the farmyard world of Herriot's Yorkshire to vibrant life. Featuring a host of adorable animals and colorful townsfolk, each of the stories is narrated by the country vet himself, with all of the warmth, caring, and good humor that have made James Herriot beloved the world over.

FROM SARAH:

The third in the series starting with Little Women and followed by Little Men. The boys in Jo's school have grown up in this bittersweet finale.

FROM THE PUBLISHER: 

Set 10 years after Little Men, Jo's Boys revisits Plumfield, the New England school still presided over by Jo and her husband, Professor Bhaer. Jo's Boys — including sailor Emil, promising musician Nat, and rebellious Dan — are grown. Jo remains at the center of this tale, holding her boys fast through shipwreck and storm, disappointment...and even murder.

FROM SARAH:

One of my tippy-top recommendations . . . if your kids haven't met the Penderwicks yet, it's time! A summer of misadventure ensues when four sisters meet a very interesting boy (and a couple of rabbits, too!) at a summer cottage in New England. Boys and girls alike enjoy this whole series. Hear Jeanne Birdsall talk about writing this series on her episode of Read-Aloud Revival. Also wonderful on audio (Audible | LibroFM).

*Note: There are a couple of instances of the Lord's name being used in vain by one of the characters.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

This summer the Penderwick sisters have a wonderful surprise: a holiday on the grounds of a beautiful estate called Arundel. Soon they are busy discovering the summertime magic of Arundel's sprawling gardens, treasure-filled attic, tame rabbits, and the cook who makes the best gingerbread in Massachusetts.

FROM SARAH:

If you loved "A Leaf Can Be", this companion picture book is perfect for your youngest nature explorers. Check out the whole series to find out what a leaf, a rock and water can be! What will they become in YOUR imagination?

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Rocks may seem like boring, static objects—until you discover that a rock can spark a fire, glow in the dark, and provide shelters of all shapes and sizes. Laura Purdie Salas's lyrical, rhyming text and Violeta Dabija's glowing illustrations make simple yet profound observations about seemingly ordinary objects and encourage readers to suggest "what else it can be!" Using metaphors for a leaf (tree topper / rain stopper), a rock (hopscotch marker / fire sparker), and water (thirst quencher / kid drencher), these insightful picture books creatively highlight a variety of roles and relationships in nature.

FROM SARAH:

Perfect for Nature Study any time of year, this sweet picture book invites us to use our imagination and dream about all the things a leaf can be. Check out the other books in this series and treat your readers to beautiful illustrations and brand-new ways to think about the simplest elements of nature.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

A leaf can be a...shade spiller, mouth filler, tree topper, rain stopper. Find out about the many roles leaves play in this poetic exploration of leaves throughout the year. Purdie Salas's lyrical, rhyming text and Violeta Dabija's glowing illustrations make simple yet profound observations about seemingly ordinary objects and encourage readers to suggest "what else it can be!" Using metaphors for a leaf (tree topper / rain stopper), a rock (hopscotch marker / fire sparker), and water (thirst quencher / kid drencher), these insightful picture books creatively highlight a variety of roles and relationships in nature.

FROM SARAH:

I love this series by Laura Purdie Salas and Violeta Dubija. Do you know how many things water can be? So many!

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Water can be a ...
• Thirst quencher
• Kid drencher
• Cloud fluffer
• Fire snuffer

Find out about the many roles water plays in this poetic exploration of water throughout the year.

FROM SARAH:

Irresistibly interactive. Littles LOVE this one.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Hervé Tullet's delightful sensory books have sold millions of copies around the world. Here is his beloved Press Here in a beautiful hardcover edition just right for toddlers, preschoolers, and early readers.

FROM SARAH:

Jan Brett’s signature side-panel illustrations and lush landscapes bring this energetic tale to life! With its rhythmic storytelling and rich visual details, this book invites readers to linger on every page and cheer as justice—sticky, golden, and delicious—is finally served.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

The African plains provide a stunning environment for Jan Brett's latest animal adventure. For as long as anyone can remember, the honeyguide bird and the African honey badger have been partners when it comes to honey: Honeyguide finds the honeycomb, Badger breaks it open, and they share the sweetness inside.

But this day, Badger keeps all the honey for himself. Foolish Badger! In no time, Honeyguide leads Badger on a fast chase. Badger thinks it's for honey, but Honeyguide has a surprise waiting for her greedy friend.

FROM SARAH:

Nicki’s grandmother knits him a mitten that soon gets lost in the snow, but becomes a warm, expanding home for many animals. The preview drawings will enchant kids and help them guess what’s coming next!

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

In this bestselling modern classic, a young boy’s lost mitten leads to a charming snowy adventure. Jan Brett’s beautiful retelling is a family favorite.

FROM SARAH:

Such a fun book! A little girl travels the globe looking for the perfect ingredients to make an apple pie. Cute for geography or a unit study!

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

An apple pie is easy to make...if the market is open. But if the market is closed, the world becomes your grocery store. This picture book takes readers around the globe to gather ingredients for a delicious apple pie. First hop a steamboat to Italy for the finest semolina wheat. Then hitch a ride to England and hijack a cow for the freshest possible milk. And, oh yes! Don't forget to go apple picking in Vermont!

FROM SARAH:

The classic that never gets old. My kids all loved this deceptively simple and delightful book!

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

All the barnyard animals want to join Mr. Gumpy on his boat ride. He only has one request: that they all get along . . . Splash!

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:

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:

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: 

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.

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:

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:

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:

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:

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

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:

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.