Books

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

You're here, but you want to be there. So you spend your life narrowing this divide, and you call this your race, your journey, your path. You live your days tightening your boot straps, wiping the sweat from your brow, chasing undiscovered happiness just around the bend. And on and on you run.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

We've all heard the mind-boggling statistics about technology and social media use. The numbers don't lie; our obsession with smartphones and social media is slowly eroding the very essence of our homes and families. We see it. We feel it. We know it.

So what do we do about it?

Spoiler alert: Forget parental control apps, time limits, or reward charts. This revolutionary path takes us into the heart of the beast itself: the social media algorithm. Former social media influencer and trailblazer Erin Loechner has seen the perks and pitfalls of social media usage, and she knows how to hack the strategies of tech wizards and platform experts so you can borrow their billion-dollar playbook to engage your family in meaningful ways away from screens.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

In this timely and enlightening book, the bestselling author of Deep Work introduces a philosophy for technology use that has already improved countless lives.

FROM SARAH:

Melissa Stewart might just be the queen of nonfiction picture books, and this title is especially fascinating. A close look at the ocean floor ecosystem following the natural death of a whale, and how it sustains life on the ocean floor for another 50 years.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

This fascinating nonfiction picture book filled with stunning illustrations details the end of life for a whale, also known as a whale fall, when its body sinks to the ocean floor and becomes an energy-rich food source for organisms living in the deep sea.

FROM SARAH:

A perfect book for your Independence Day collection! This one features the lyrics to the classic patriotic song alongside Wendell Minor's gorgeous illustrations.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Katharine Lee Bates's timeless and beloved poem alongside art by award-winning author and artist Wendell Minor, capturing the magnificent beauty of the United States. Celebrate America's ideals of togetherness and marvel at classic illustrations of her natural and historical wonders: from Yosemite National Park and the Garden of the Gods, to Mount Rushmore and Plymouth Plantation

FROM SARAH:

When three sibling bears break mama's beautiful blue seashell, there's only one thing to do: go on an adventure to find her a new one. This is one of my new favorites, but it can be hard to come by, even though it's not very old. Alas! See if your library has it.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Three bear siblings break their mother’s favorite blue seashell, and rather than tell her, they decide to set out in their sailboat to find her a new one. On their quest they encounter salty sailors, strange new islands, huge whales, and vast seas but no blue seashells. When a treacherous storm suddenly blows in, the three bears find themselves tossed about in their little boat, far from Mama. What will become of their search, and what will it take to bring them safely home?

FROM SARAH:

Oh goodness, this book is a treat. Sal is a boy who loves the water and is determined to build a boat. What happens along the way (and at the end) will tug your heartstrings! Deliciously long, this picture book is a feast for the eyes.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

A boy builds a unique boat of his own with some help from his community in this new picture book written and illustrated by Thyra Heder, the critically acclaimed author of Alfie.

FROM SARAH:

Perfect for your nonfiction lovers! My boys poured over this book and all of its beautifully rendered cutaways. If you've got kids who love boats or books that show the way things work, don't miss this one. P.S. There's a coloring book that goes with it, for true enthusiasts!

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

This visually engaging book filled with cross sections and exploded views of working boats is perfect for children--and even adults--curious about the mechanics of boats and the lives of people who work on boats. Filled with full-page spreads of cross sections of ten intriguing working boats, this book provides a glimpse into their inner workings, as well as highlights of each boat's unique engineering components that enable it to do the job it was built for.

FROM SARAH:

While this (beautiful!) book doesn’t specify a particular location by name, the illustrations depict a charming seaside setting with rocky shores, lighthouses, small boats, and coastal wildlife, all hallmarks of New England's maritime landscapes. You'll feel immersed in New England as you read it aloud! Highly recommended.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Walter longs to be a sea dog. He comes from a long line of seafaring dogs, all of whom made their livelihoods from the sea, but, alas, Walter's talent seems to extend only to baking. He sells his breads and cakes, made from his aunt’s classic sea dog recipes, in the village tea shop. But, when an unfortunate incident plunges Walter into a deep-sea adventure, he is brought face to face with the legendary Big Boris and discovers his place as a true sea dog.

FROM SARAH:

Sweet stories about family, helping neighbors, meeting new friends, solving problems, and enjoying the seasons in their seaside lighthouse home. Everything Cynthia Rylant writes is oh-so-good, and this is no exception!

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Life with only the sea can be lonely. Just ask Pandora and Seabold. They've lived most of their lives with the sea -- Pandora in a lighthouse and Seabold on a boat -- and they're each quite used to being alone. Or they were.
But one day, the sea did something extraordinary: It brought Pandora and Seabold together! And even better, the sea gave them the ingredients for an adventure that neither of them had considered before-an adventure called "family."

FROM SARAH:

These short, themed adaptations of the Little House books by Laura Ingalls Wilder are wonderfully done. The short-story vignettes are pretty near the originals and contain multiple quotes from the books. Highly recommended.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Join the original pioneer girl in this Little House chapter book, adapted from Laura Ingalls Wilder’s beloved classics. Illustrated with beautiful new black-and-white artwork, this repackaged edition includes bonus material such as games, activities, and more!

Laura Ingalls and her bulldog, Jack, have been together for as long as she can remember—and he’s no ordinary dog. Jack travels with Laura and her pioneer family all the way from the Big Woods of Wisconsin to the West. He protects them from wolves, cattle that go astray, and sometimes even a friendly neighbor. And he can always help Laura find her way home.

FROM SARAH:

These sweet books are a bit reminiscient of the Little House books, but from a young boy's perspective. Very well done! See if your developing reader enjoys the first. If so, a whole series awaits.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

It’s 1892 in Maple Ridge, Illinois, and Logan Pryce is worried about his family. His dad, Dale, needs to find a new job because their farm is failing. He may even need to look for work in another city. Logan offers to earn some money by selling his latest invention, but his parents tell him not to worry and that everything will be fine. Then Dale is hired for a temporary job at the general store, and Logan can’t wait to lend a hand! But his eagerness may cause his dad to lose the job he so badly needs. Can Logan’s mistake be fixed in time?

FROM SARAH:

A lovely end-of-summer book that evokes all the feels of summer, including all five senses. And who can resist a book written by the great Kevin Henkes?

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Bees buzz, birds sing, and children roll in the grass and feel the heat of the summer sun. With striking verbal imagery, repetition, and alliteration, Kevin Henkes introduces basic concepts of language and the summer season. Laura Dronzek's glowing paintings beautifully illustrate the wonders of summer.

FROM SARAH:

We're big Barb Rosenstock fans around here, and in this lovely book, she tells the story of how one Canadian scientist and his wife (along with countless citizens who contributed to their work), helped uncover the mystery of where the monarch butterflies went each fall. Fantastic backmatter.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

A gorgeous picture book based on the true story of a scientist who solves the mysteries of monarch butterfly migration—with the help of schoolchildren! A perfect story for nature lovers of all ages from the Caldecott Honor winning author of The Noisy Paint Box.

FROM SARAH:

Dusty quiet and hazy skies. Then: the storm! The language in this book makes it a delightful read-aloud.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

This beautifully crafted story is perfect to pull out and enjoy on rainy days and for classroom discussions on weather patterns.

It is a day in the country. Quiet, dusty, expectant. Everything is hot and still.

FROM SARAH:

The colors in this illustrated version of de la Mare's well-known poem are vibrant. This book is a joy to read and look at.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

In Summer Evening, readers will join a farmer and his family as they enjoy a picnic dinner in the late summer sun. Their pet cat spots a mouse in the field and a chase pursues that includes a dog, a horse, cows, pigs, chickens, and ducks! The sparse text and bright colors give children much to look at and explore, and they will love identifying the different animals in each spread. It concludes with all the animals going to sleep, so also a great bedtime read.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

For nine-year-old Flora Smallwood, Rosetown, Indiana, is full of surprises, many of the best of which happen at the Wing and a Chair Used Book Shop, where she loves to read vintage children’s books after school in the faded purple chair by the window.

But lately, those surprises haven’t been so good. Her dear old dog, Laurence, recently passed away. Not long after, her parents decided to take a breather from their marriage, and now Flora has to move back and forth between their two houses. Plus, she’s just begun fourth grade, and it is so much different than third.

Luckily Flora has two wonderful friends—one old and one new. And with them around to share thoughts and laughs and adventures big and small, life in Rosetown still has many sweet moments—and even some very happy surprises!

FROM SARAH:

This story is both whimsical and nautical, and Lucy Landry is a modern Michigan Anne Shirley! It's also shorter than most novels on this list (and you know I *do* love a short read). Sweet and hopeful.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Lucy, a spirited French-Ojibwe orphan, is sent to the stormy waters of Lake Superior to live with a mysterious family of lighthouse-keepers—and, she hopes, to find the legendary necklace her father spent his life seeking…

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Kit is visiting Aunt Millie in Mountain Hollow, Kentucky, in 1934. When a professor arrives to study Kentucky mountain traditions, Kit is thrilled to help with her research--until it becomes clear that somebody doesn't want "outsiders" nosing around. Kit decides to find out who's making trouble--even if it means venturing into Lonesome Hollow in the dark of night.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Julie discovers a mysterious note written in Chinese. She brings it to her friend Ivy to translate, and learns that the note once belonged to Ivy's grandmother, from long ago when she was a girl immigrating from China to San Francisco. The note promises great treasure, but it doesn't quite make sense--it's almost as if the writer was sending a secret message in code. Soon after the discovery of the note, Julie's and Ivy's beloved dolls are stolen. Who would do such a thing, and why? Seeking clues, Julie and Ivy search all over Chinatown and even visit the immigration station on Angel Island. Gradually, Julie realizes that in order to find the doll thief, she must figure out the real message hidden in the Chinese note.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Attending high school in Steamboat Springs is Ida Bidson’s dream—it’s her next step toward becoming a teacher and her best shot at escaping a life of milking cows. It’s 1925, and from using telephones to attending movies, Ida is thrilled by her new experiences in Steamboat. She and her school friends even form a club, the Secret Sisters, to celebrate everything modern.

But when they accidentally antagonize the strict, traditionalist principal, Ida’s high school career may be over before it even begins. It's up to the Secret Sisters find a way to save Ida’s dream!

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Rachel, Cassie, and Joey live in the city with their Pop, until Pop's search for work lands the family on a run down farm. Dreamy Rachel loves to read, and doesn't know much about the country. Times are hard there, too—the school and library are closed.  When Pop gets work near Canada, he has to leave the children on the farm alone. For two months! But Rachel's the oldest, and she'll make sure they're all right. Somehow.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Thanks to her superstitious mother, Esther knows some tricks for avoiding bad luck: toss salt over your left shoulder, never button your shirt crooked, and avoid black cats. But even luck can't keep her family safe from the Great Depression. When Pa loses his job, Esther's family leaves their comfy Chicago life behind for a farm in Wisconsin.

Living on a farm comes with lots of hard work, but that means there are plenty of opportunities for Esther to show her mother how helpful she can be. She loves all of the farm animals (except the mean geese) and even better makes a fast friend in lively Bethany. But then Ma sees a sign that Esther just knows is wrong. If believing a superstition makes you miserable, how can that be good luck?

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

A name day all her own! Nine-year-old Nancy had never heard of this Swedish custom-much like a big birthday party-until she came to live with Grandma and Grandpa Benson on their farm. To her disappointment, Nancy learns that her name is not in the Swedish Almanac, so there is no day set aside especially for her.

Although the problem of a name day for Nancy is never far from anyone's mind, her life on the Benson farm is a busy one filled with delight. Living with family where the slightest occasion calls for celebration-complete with grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, and animals-it's impossible to be unhappy.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Twelve-year-old Indian-American Pandita Paul doesn't like change. She's not ready to start middle school and leave the comforts of childhood behind. Most of all, Pandita doesn't want to feel like she's leaving her mother, who died a few years ago, behind. After a falling out with her best friend, Pandita is planning to spend most of her summer break reading and writing in her favorite secret space: the abandoned but majestic mansion across the street.

But then the unthinkable happens. The town announces that the old home will be bulldozed in favor of new—maybe affordable—housing. With her family on opposing sides of the issue, Pandita must find her voice—and the strength to move on—in order to give her community hope.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

When Savannah Mae Thorpe, born and raised near the golden sands of the South, arrives with a version of the story unlike any heard before, she finds herself the unlikely leader of an expedition into the woods to discover the truth. With help from local lumberjack Alastair Bliss, who holds a shadowed past of his own, her search to discover the truth of the Atonement Tree may have unexpected ramifications on her life--and the lives of those around her.

FROM SARAH:

I just love the BBC series based on these books, so I had to choose this one as a Mama Book Club choice in RAR Premium! All Things Bright and Beautiful picks up where All Creatures Great and Small leaves off, with James newly married to Helen.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Now newly married, Herriot journeys among the remote hillside farms and valley towns of the Yorkshire Dales, caring for their inhabitants―both two- and four-legged. Throughout, Herriot's deep compassion, humor, and love of life shine as we laugh, cry, and delight in the portraits of his many varied animal patients and their equally varied owners.

FROM SARAH:

Oh my, the color on this one! 😍 This collection contains excerpts from several of Herriot's books, as well as some lovely photographs and thoughts from his grown kids.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

James Herriot's timeless, heartwarming, and perceptive stories about animals and people have charmed millions of readers around the world, and millions more have watched the popular PBS series All Creatures Great and Small, which is based on his four books.

FROM SARAH:

I have yet to read this book, but have heard *such* good things about it. I think it would make a lovely companion to reading anything by James Herriot.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Travel the Shepherd's path to the green pastures and cool, refreshing waters of Psalm 23. As a shepherd himself, W. Phillip Keller shares his insights into the life and character of sheep --and of the Good Shepherd who loves and cares for them. A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23 will give new meaning to the ageless Shepherd Psalm, enriching your trust in and love for the Lord who watches closely over you.

FROM SARAH:

Follow along as Penelope and her mom make their way to the farmer’s market. Darling. Read this book along with The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street or The Man with the Violin.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

One bright city morning, Penelope and her mom make their way to the farmer's market. On street corners and train platforms, musicians and performers enchant Penelope, speaking to her through their floating, booming notes. The noise of the city keeps the pair moving―until Penelope hears a sound so magical she knows she has to play the instrument that makes it.

FROM SARAH:

I love books like this, where we peek into the windows of a building and see what everyone is up to. It turns out, everybody in the red brick building is up to something! From Caldecott Award winning illustrator, Oge Mora, who also illustrated Thank You, Omu! and The Oldest Student.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

A chain reaction of noises wakes up several children (and a cat) living in an apartment building. But it’s late in the night, so despite the disturbances, one by one, the building’s inhabitants return to their beds—this time with a new set of sounds to lull them to sleep.

FROM SARAH:

In this very special, heart-warming collection of favorite stories about dogs great and small, James Herriot tells us about his own dogs and all the wonderful people and animals we have come to love so much. (Recommended for teens and older.)

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

In this very special, heart-warming collection of favorite stories about dogs great and small, James Herriot tells us about his own dogs and all the wonderful people and animals we have come to love so much.

FROM SARAH:

Each story in this collection from veterinarian James Herriot is as memorable and heartwarming as the last. Perfect for cat-lovers. (Please note mild language and some reproductive topics related to animals.)

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Here are Buster, the kitten who arrived on Christmas; Alfred, the cat at the sweet shop; little Emily, who lived with the gentleman tramp; and Olly and Ginny, the kittens who charmed readers when they first appeared at the Herriots' house in the worldwide bestseller Every Living Thing.

FROM SARAH:

A Newbery Honor book by Elizabeth Yates (author of Sarah Whitcher's Story), about a young boy living on a mountain farm, his best friend, Benji, and a lovable black lamb. (Please note that shepherding practices, such as tail-docking, are described in this book.)

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

A boy in a family of sheep farmers raises a black lamb to be the leader of the flock.

FROM SARAH:

When Floss lived in town, she loved playing ball with the children. Now she lives on a farm and has to work for her keep. But will she make a good sheepdog? This is a delightful story!

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Floss is a young border collie who belongs to an old man in a town and loves playing ball with the children in the park. The old man's son is a farmer and needs a new sheepdog to replace Nell, who has grown too old to work, so the old man decides to give his son Floss. Somewhere in her memory, Floss knows about sheep, and she soon learns how to be a sheepdog. But one day, when Floss is on the hillside herding sheep, she sees the children playing with a new ball and can't resist joining in. Meanwhile, the sheep escape—and the farmer is very angry. Floss is put in the doghouse while Nell rounds up the sheep. But after this Floss becomes a very good sheepdog—although, when she has time, she still likes to play ball with the children.

FROM SARAH:

Margaret Wise Brown's words are brought to beautiful life by Caldecott medalist Jerry Pinkney in this lovely book. Perfect for cozy wintertime readings. 

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Goodnight Moon author Margaret Wise Brown's words are brought to beautiful life by Caldecott medalist Jerry Pinkney. This must-have for every child’s library is perfect for cozy wintertime readings.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Harry Potter has never been the star of a Quidditch team, scoring points while riding a broom far above the ground. He knows no spells, has never helped to hatch a dragon, and has never worn a cloak of invisibility.

All he knows is a miserable life with the Dursleys, his horrible aunt and uncle, and their abominable son, Dudley - a great big swollen spoiled bully. Harry's room is a tiny closet at the foot of the stairs, and he hasn't had a birthday party in eleven years.

But all that is about to change when a mysterious letter arrives by owl messenger: a letter with an invitation to an incredible place that Harry - and anyone who reads about him - will find unforgettable.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Stanley Yelnats is under a curse. A curse that began with his no-good-dirty-rotten-pig-stealing-great-great-grandfather and has since followed generations of Yelnatses. Now Stanley has been unjustly sent to a boys' detention center, Camp Green Lake, where the boys build character by spending all day, every day digging holes exactly five feet wide and five feet deep. There is no lake at Camp Green Lake. But there are an awful lot of holes.

It doesn't take long for Stanley to realize there's more than character improvement going on at Camp Green Lake. The boys are digging holes because the warden is looking for something. But what could be buried under a dried-up lake? Stanley tries to dig up the truth in this inventive and darkly humorous tale of crime and punishment
—and redemption.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

The game under the tree looked like a hundred others Peter and Judy had at home. But they were bored and restless and, looking for something interesting to do, thought they'd give Jumanji a try. Little did they know when they unfolded its ordinary-looking playing board that they were about to be plunged into the most exciting and bizzare adventure of their lives.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Hank, Emerson, and their friends have returned to Camp Outlier for another summer of fun and shenanigans. Hank won’t let his RISK (Recurring Incident of the Strange Kind) factor of inconvenient invisibility stop him from having the best summer ever, even when it starts mysteriously turning people and objects around him invisible too. But between his invisibility and an internet celebrity joining their cabin, camp clown Hank is struggling to maintain his spotlight.

Hank knows that if he can win the camp-wide challenge for his team, all eyes will be back on him (or, at least, on where everyone thinks the invisible kid is standing). But as the finish line approaches, it becomes clear that someone is trying to sabotage Camp Outlier—and Hank’s pursuit of camp-wide glory puts him in serious danger.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Rhett and his brother, Nash, have never been allowed to play board games. It's their mom's most important rule; the twins don't know why, but they know not to push her on it.

When their mom suddenly disappears, they're reunited with Ace, their long-lost grandfather, who reveals that their family is descended from a board game character who escaped his game and lived in the real world. Their family now has the ability to enter the world of any game they want—but this gift also comes with a price. A game character who’s wanted revenge against their mom for decades has finally caught her and is holding her hostage in the world of a game. Which game? That’s up to Rhett and Nash to figure out, even if it means breaking Mom’s most important rule.

But as they learn to use their newly discovered ability, exploring new worlds and facing new challenges and risks, the brothers quickly realize that saving Mom won't be all fun and games. It’s game on… or game over.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Bunny should be sleeping, but instead, he is waiting for Dad to come check on him. Dad always checks on him, but tonight, Dad is late.

Bunny can’t wait anymore— he needs his dad! Slipping out of bed, Bunny packs a wagon of everything Dad might need: some water, a blanket, a snack, and their favorite book to share. Down the hall and through the dark, Bunny finds Dad fast asleep, oblivious to all the supplies Bunny offers him.

FROM SARAH:

I love the way the illustrator incorporated real pressed leaves into the illustrations, and the endpapers are swoon-worthy. I think this one is worth owning!

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Every year, gusts of wind blow colorful autumn leaves to the ground. Some leaves make a crunch under foot, and others are so beautiful they deserve to be saved.

In this story a young artist draws inspiration from the leaves she collects and every leaf sparks a new idea. She imagines turning a Japanese Zelkova leaf into a boat to sail far away, a Honey Locust leaf into a swing to sway in the gentle breeze, and an American Basswood leaf into a hot air balloon to float high above the trees.

FROM SARAH:

I loved this book! A trading-up story. Longer text, so it's a great fit for a wide range of ages, or for older kids. I wonder if your kids will want to write their own trading-up apple cake story after reading this one.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

An old woman wants to bake an apple cake. She has everything she needs, except apples. So she sets off to market, taking a basket of plums to trade along the way, just in case...

This is a classic story of sharing, trading and caring. Children will love guessing what the woman will acquire next, and how, and seeing how her journey brings her a full circle as her kindness is repaid.

FROM SARAH:

Especially good for your youngest readers. I very much love Genevieve's sweet, warm illustrations in this short, readable fall story.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

In this simple rhyming story from the author of Held in Love, a child says thank you for the gifts nature provides, from hazelnuts in the hedge to apples from the tree, eggs from the hens to milk from the cow. Eventually, the family has enough ingredients to make something special… a delicious apple cake!

FROM SARAH:

For kids who love interactive books. This book will have you turning, twisting, and shaking those apples right off the tree. Lots of fun, especially for younger kiddos!

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

In this charming sequel to Bunny Slopes, Bunny needs help picking apples for mama's apple pie. Young readers will delight in using the included red ribbon to help Bunny reach new heights and pick those tasty apples. Children will have fun as they rock the book back and forth and turn it around and around for a unique roller-coaster adventure on Bunny's way hom

FROM SARAH:

A fun and fact-filled apple book as a class travels to an orchard. A fun bonus is the beautiful surprise that happens when you cut an apple perpendicular to the core.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

In this playful, humorous, and child-friendly classroom story, the students learn a lot about apples and apple orchards—including how apples are harvested, how cider is made, and what the different varieties of apples are—while trying to solve a riddle. The book also celebrates how some children learn differently than others.

FROM SARAH:

An exciting, page-turning read! One of my twins names this as his all-time favorite book, which is saying something! The many references to Van Gogh's artwork make it an ideal companion to picture study, but it's also just a great adventure.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

After an experience he’d rather forget, Vincent is determined to be done with art. So when he and his little sister, Lili, spend spring break with their art conservator great-uncle, Vincent’s plan is to stay glued to his phone.

That is, until Lili disappears into one of the world’s most famous paintings and Vincent learns his parents have been hiding something from him: Their family is the last of The Restorationists, a secret society with the power to travel through paintings—and a duty to protect them from evil forces.

With Lili’s safety on the line, leaving art behind is no longer an option. Vincent must team up with his know-it-all second-cousin Georgia, wrestle with why his parents lied to him, and confront both his past and a future he never wanted. Young readers are invited into a captivating universe where paintings become a portal—and adventure and danger lurk beyond every canvas.

FROM SARAH:

My kids and I really loved this audiobook. It's party epistolary (told in letters) about Resilience, a Mars rover. It reminded me a little of Dan Bar-El's The Very, Very Far North. Delightful, start to finish!

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Meet Resilience, a Mars rover determined to live up to his name.

Res was built to explore Mars. He was not built to have human emotions. But as he learns new things from the NASA scientists who assemble him, he begins to develop humanlike feelings. Maybe there’s a problem with his programming….

Human emotions or not, launch day comes, and Res blasts off to Mars, accompanied by a friendly drone helicopter named Fly. But Res quickly discovers that Mars is a dangerous place filled with dust storms and giant cliffs. As he navigates Mars’s difficult landscape, Res is tested in ways that go beyond space exploration.

As millions of people back on Earth follow his progress, will Res have the determination, courage, and resilience to succeed…and survive?

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Do you have your life figured out yet? If not, congrats--you're normal.

That said, how do you figure it out? The good news is, your life is already leaving you clues--about what matters to you, what you're good at, what's worth your time. When you ignore those clues, you start drifting or, worse yet, you set your course for the wrong destination entirely.

How Teens Win is your map to the very best treasure you'll ever discover--yourself. Your potential. Your possibility. Your future. In this book we'll share a fun, simple process for better understanding your potential so you can start to set goals and make plans that matter to you.

You've got your whole life ahead of you. Who will you become? How will you win? You're about to find out.

FROM SARAH:

One of my favorite reads of 2024! I was delighted by this audiobook, and even talked to Jon Acuff on the Read-Aloud Revival about the practice of creating a Best Moments List afterward. Highly recommended.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

What if you could have a fulfilling career, a thriving marriage, strong friendships, and rewarding hobbies, all while being in the best shape of your life? What if every day you lived was better than the one before? What if tapping into your potential wasn't as hard as you think?

According to New York Times bestselling author Jon Acuff, it might not be. In fact, All It Takes Is a Goal. In his ninth book, he shows you how to plan goals that you're guaranteed to reach by focusing on your best moments, navigating the three zones of performance, and finding ways to fuel your passions, all while actually enjoying the ride.

Sound too good to be true? Jon thought so too. Until it happened--again and again--for him and the hundreds of real people in his research project. Whether your goals are personal, relational, or career-driven, the key to a better future is closer than you think.

FROM SARAH:

A graphic novel-style picture book about Johann Gutenberg's invention of the printing press at the end of the Middle Ages. This one also has a well-done audiobook version that is only 17 minutes and perfect for a car ride.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

In graphic novel format, tells the story of Johann Gutenberg and the invention of the printing press.

FROM SARAH:

This is the first of four PBs about King Arthur, followed by King Arthur and the Round Table, Excalibur, and Lancelot. The four of these make a nice introduction to King Arthur, and the illustrations are quite lovely!

Recommended for ages 6+.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

The first volume of the Tales of King Arthur series introduces younger readers to the classic story known for over one hundred years as "The Sword in the Stone." Hudson Talbott has faithfully retold this heroic tale with humor and warmth, showing a human side to Arthur rarely glimpsed before. His vivid, richly colored paintings capture a crowded London at Christmastime and magnificent knights jousting on the field of battle, as well as the legendary sorcerer Merlin and the magical sword that reveals Arthur's destiny.

FROM SARAH:

Oh, what a delightful book! There's so much to look at in this cutaway look at a castle through the months of the year. I especially love the panel at the far bottom right, between the princess and the frog! Don't be surprised if your kids spend a good long time with this one.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

There’s a lot going on in the castle of King Bolebor—a peace- loving gardener—and Queen Drogomira—a brilliant inventor. There’s a princess learning sword fighting so that she can become a knight; a sweet dog in search of an owner; a dragon hiding in the cellar; a gold-counting treasurer; a friendly ghost; an annoying jester, a burly blacksmith—and many others.
Vibrant and intricately detailed spreads take readers through a year in the castle, showing how an innocent mishap leads to war with the neighbors; how lives in the castle change from month to month; and how each season brings its own surprises.

FROM SARAH:

This retelling of Beowulf is the most readable and accessible I've come across. Well written and page-turny. Heads-up if you aren't familiar with this classic, it's violent and gory. There are many bloody battles and deaths. The illustrations in this one are well done but may be disturbing to some kids, so I recommend previewing. I'd read it at my home with about ages 10+.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Long ago a Scandinavian warrior fought three evils so powerful they threatened whole kingdoms. Standing head and shoulders above his comrades, Beowulf single-handedly saved the land of the Danes from a merciless ogre named Grendel and from his sea-hag mother. But it is his third terrible battle, with the death-dragon of the deep, in which he truly meets his match. Lovers of heroes, monsters, and the drama of battle will find this retelling as enthralling as it is tragic. Now in a handy black-and-white digest edition perfect for classroom use.

FROM SARAH:

A good, solid story (and a pretty quick read!) set in the days of King Arthur. A young boy's suspicious uncle shows up at his father's castle, and then his father mysteriously and supposedly dies. The boy and his mother flee the castle to save their lives. The young boy makes his way to Camelot to plead their case before King Arthur.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

In the days of King Arthur there stood a mighty oak tree within the walls of a castle. Peace reigned in the castle until the fearsome night when Lionel, long-lost brother of Lord Weldon, returned to cause trouble and unhappiness.

It was then that Shan, the son of Lord Weldon, took on the duties of a knight and hid the sword in the hollow of the giant oak. The days that followed were filled with adventures that tried the courage of the young boy.

Shan was surprised by bearded robbers in the woods. He met noble knights in plumed helmets, and eventually he even made a trip to high-towered Camelot. His story is filled with the pageantry and color of England in King Arthur's time. It creates a vivid picture of the Knights of the Round Table and the wisdom of King Arthur himself.

FROM SARAH:

This is an audio performance by award-winning storyteller (and friend of RAR), Jim Weiss, that also comes with a companion reader for your child to follow along. Jim's storytelling is absolutely captivating and excellent for all ages. This is one of my top recommendations on this list. Want to introduce your kids to King Arthur? Start here.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

In a time of fear and danger, will Merlin's magic, Lancelot's bravery, and Arthur's wisdom be enough to unite the kingdom and bring peace? Beloved storyteller Jim Weiss brings tales of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table to life with action, wonder, and humor. Gorgeous paintings and whimsical medieval-style illuminated illustrations by Rebecca Sorge will fascinate and delight young readers.

FROM SARAH:

his book has received a lot of love from readers! I have yet to read it, but it comes highly recommended by some RAR team members and is on my TBR. It's an unusual take on Eleanor of Aquitaine, wife to two kings, mother to two others, who has been waiting in Heaven a long time (eight centuries) —to be reunited with her second husband, Henry II of England. Beautiful Feet Books recommends it for homeschoolers in grades 10-12.

Recommended for ages 13+.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Eleanor of Aquitaine, wife to two kings, mother to two others, has been waiting in Heaven a long time -- eight centuries, more or less -- to be reunited with her second husband, Henry II of England. Finally, the day has come when Henry will be judged for admission. While Eleanor, never a patient woman in life or afterlife, waits, three people, each of whom was close to Eleanor during a time of her life, join her. Their reminiscences do far more than help distract Eleanor -- they also paint a rich portrait of an extraordinary woman who was front and center in a remarkable period in history and whose accomplishments have had an important influence on society through the ages.

FROM SARAH:

A 2016 Newbery Honor. I would suggest reading a couple of reviews before handing this to your kids or reading it aloud. Here's a starred review from the trustworthy reviewers at Redeemed Reader, and also a thoughtful review with special considerations for Christian families from my pal, Carolyn Leiloglou.

Recommended for ages 10+.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

1242. On a dark night, travelers from across France cross paths at an inn and begin to tell stories of three children: William, an oblate on a mission from his monastery; Jacob, a Jewish boy who has fled his burning village; and Jeanne, a peasant girl who hides her prophetic visions. They are accompanied by Jeanne’s loyal greyhound, Gwenforte...recently brought back from the dead.

As the narrator collects their tales, the story of these three unlikely allies begins to come together.

Their adventures take them on a chase through France to escape prejudice and persecution and save precious and holy texts from being burned. They’re taken captive by knights, sit alongside a king, and save the land from a farting dragon. And as their quest drives them forward to a final showdown at Mont Saint-Michel, all will come to question if these children can perform the miracles of saints.

FROM SARAH:

I have not yet read this book (which usually keeps a book from being added to any of our lists!) but it comes so highly recommended from the trustworthy folks at Redeemed Reader, I thought it should be included. Be sure to read their review before embarking on this set of Arthurian tales with your kids.

Recommended for ages 12+.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Translated, adapted, told, and retold, the stories of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table have captivated imaginations across time. Now comes a lavishly illustrated, masterful retelling sure to enthrall a new generation of readers. From the tale of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight to the quest for the Holy Grail, stories both familiar and unfamiliar are woven into a vivid tapestry of Arthurian lore that spans from the king’s conception to his final battle. Merlin, Guinevere, Lancelot, and other timeless characters come to life as complex men and women in a rich and atmospheric feat of storytelling that feels at once historical and fantastical, otherworldly and fully human.