Books

FROM SARAH:

A fascinating look at a young girl's observations in Medieval times, when insects were believed to come from the mud, and therefore were "evil." Delightful!

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

In the Middle Ages, people believed that insects were evil, born from mud in a process called spontaneous generation. Maria Merian was only a child, but she disagreed. She watched carefully as caterpillars spun themselves cocoons, which opened to reveal summer birds, or butterflies and moths. Maria studied the whole life cycle of the summer birds, and documented what she learned in vibrant paintings.

This is the story of one young girl who took the time to observe and learn, and in so doing disproved a theory that went all the way back to ancient Greece.

FROM SARAH:

The best part of this story is the love between two brothers who walk through life’s joys and tragedies together. The beautiful watercolor illustrations are an invitation to even the youngest readers to explore the life of C.S. Lewis, but it does contain themes of loss and grief, so you might give it a pre-read!

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Before C.S. Lewis wrote The Chronicles of Narnia, he was a young boy named Jack who spent his days dreaming up stories of other worlds filled with knights, castles, and talking animals. His brother, Warnie, spent his days imagining worlds filled with trains, boats, and technology. One rainy day, they found a wardrobe in a little room next to the attic, and they wondered, What if the wardrobe had no end?

Years later, Jack began to think about what could be beyond that wardrobe, and about a girl named Lucy and her siblings. This picture book biography introduces the beloved creator of The Chronicles of Narnia to a new generation of children who see hidden magic in the world around them.

FROM SARAH: 

Young readers can peek through the wardrobe in this beautiful picture-book edition of one of our most beloved stories. It has a healthy amount of text on each page, so it might be enjoyed in sections if you have wiggly listeners.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

A picture book retelling of C. S. Lewis's classic story The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, abridged for the youngest fans! Introduce them to the magic of Narnia with this picture book featuring illustrations by Tudor Humphries.

FROM SARAH:

Ever wonder what it would have been like to be friends with C. S. Lewis? This beautiful middle grade novel is the tale of two friends who come from entirely different backgrounds and experiences, but connect deeply through imagination and storytelling. The slow, thoughtful plot is perfect for kids eight and up, but sensitive readers should know it does contain the death of a parent.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

A fictionalized exploration of the childhood of C.S. Lewis.

Davy, a working-class boy living in East Belfast in 1908, is sent to work at the wealthy Lewis household. When he meets Jacks – the name by which CS Lewis was known to friends and family – Davy is captivated by his friend’s world of books and stories. Together the boys plunge into imagining and adventuring, and Davy discovers his own artistic talent. But when Davy is offered a job at the shipyard, and Jacks’s mother falls gravely ill, their wondrous days of make-believe seem numbered. Will they lose their extraordinary shared world forever?

FROM SARAH: 

Our beloved little Knight Owl is back with the second delightful story in this series! This time he's out to save the forest he loves, but not to worry... He's got a tiny feathered friend by his side!

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Early Bird wants to be brave and protect the castle, just like Knight Owl. But she falls asleep on the job and then keeps her hero up during the day with her enthusiastic chattiness, well-meaning questions, and cheerful owl impersonations. But there are strange happenings in the forest, and soon Knight Owl and Early Bird find themselves in the throes of danger. Will these two learn to work together to keep themselves and the kingdom safe?

FROM SARAH:

My kids and I were thoroughly captivated by this whimsical adventure. The first in a series. Perfect for fellow lovers of The Wingfeather Saga.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

This thrilling novel by Kathryn Butler mixes fantasy with Christian themes, taking middle-grade readers on a quest through castles, forests, and caverns to help a young girl find hope and usher in restoration.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

With sweet, luminous illustrations by Aimée Sicuro, this story will inspire parents and children to welcome the peaceful nature of nighttime into their homes and hearts.

FROM SARAH:

When Marianna Meyer and Kinuko Y. Craft team up on a picture book, you know it will be stunning, and Pegasus is no exception!

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

From the poignant meeting the growing bond of friendship between horse and man to the dramatic slaying of the fearsome fire-breathing Chimera, this is an unforgettable adventure that will stir the imagination of young and old alike. Featuring glorious paintings that readers will want to savor again and again, here is a magnificent edition of a timeless Greek classic.

FROM SARAH:

For any reader who is drawn to ancient civilizations, volcanoes and edge-of-your-seat survival stories, Christina Balit brings to life the final moments of Pompeii and the courage of two children caught in the heart of it all.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Join Tranio, the son of an actor, and his friend Livia, the baker's daughter, in witnessing the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD79. Tranio, like most Roman boys, likes to watch whatever is going on: tradesmen selling their goods, ships unloading their exotic cargoes, politicians making speeches in the forum. But one hot August day a very different scene unfolds. The ground begins to shake, the sky to darken. Heading for the harbor, Tranio and his friend Livia hide on a boat and witness one of the most terrifying moments in recorded history-the eruption of Mount Vesuvius and the destruction of their beloved city, Pompeii.

FROM SARAH: 

Absolutely STUNNING illustrations bring life to one of the lesser-known Greek myths in this beautiful picture book. While this story holds all the drama, romance, and jealousy of the Ancient Greek myths, it's gentle enough for readers 4 and up.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Perhaps the greatest love story of all, Cupid and Psyche is unsurpassed in its richness and drama. Marie Craft's lively, suspenseful retelling of this classic Greek myth will appeal to young and old alike. And these legendary lovers have inspired forty lush luminous paintings by award-winning artist Kinuko Craft.

FROM SARAH:

An adventurous graphic novel with a fast-paced storyline, this installment in the Good Times Travel Agency series is perfect for readers 8 and up who love mythology and ancient civilizations, and those of us who just enjoy a good giggle.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Join the Binkertons -- twins Josh and Emma and their little sister Libby -- as they head to the Good Times Travel Agency hoping to visit the next Olympic Games, but end up in Ancient Greece instead! Adventures in Ancient Greece is an exciting mix of adventure and historical information about life in Greece in the fifth century BC.

FROM SARAH: 

This picture book is an excellent overview of the life of Cleopatra, set in the rich world of Alexandria as the Roman Republic began to crumble. The illustrations are beautiful, but it is text-heavy and deals with more mature content , so I'd recommend it for readers 10 and up.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:
Queen of Egypt at the age of eighteen, Cleopatra's passion was to untie the world under Egyptian rule. Legendary leaders risked their kingdoms to win her heart, and her epic life has inspired countless tales throughout history. A timeless story of love, war, and ambition, this pictorial biography from acclaimed author/illustrator Diane Stanley is sure to entertain and educate.

FROM SARAH:

With plenty of humor and historical detail woven into every page, readers will experience the wonders and challenges of Rome through the eyes of a brave young girl in this illustrated chapter book. Heads up that this story has some mature themes, so I'd recommend it for readers ten and up.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Iliona never imagined that her sea voyage from Greece to Egypt would lead to Rome, but when she is captured by pirates and auctioned off as a slave, that’s where she lands. Readers are invited to view the wonders of Rome through Iliona’s eyes—the luxury, the excess, and the politics.

FROM SARAH:

A fantastic retelling of the myths of Jason and the Argonauts, this compilation of stories is one of the best! I'd recommend it for readers 10 and up since it has some mature themes.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Enter a world where harpies torment mortals, the Argonaut Orpheus sings, the mighty god Zeus wages war on the Titans, and Prometheus steals fire. Author Padraic Colum weaves the tales of Jason and his Argonauts with classic Greek mythology to create this captivating epic about life, war, and astounding beings who lived in a time long past. Poetically written and wonderful for reading aloud, this collection of ancient stories will captivate modern readers.

FROM SARAH:

A FiVE-STAR READ! This story is captivating, moving and inspiring, bringing us face-to-face with Roman persecution during the life of Christ. I'd recommend it for ages 12 and up because of the mature themes, but middle-grade readers (and adults!) are going to love this one.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

In this Newbery Medal–winning novel, Daniel bar Jamin will stop at nothing to seek revenge for his father's death at the hands of the Roman Empire.

FROM SARAH:

Rosemay Sutcliff's writing makes this classic tale compulsively readable. Recommended for ages 10 and up.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Homer's epic poem, The Iliad, is one of the greatest adventure stories of all time and Rosemary Sutcliff's retelling of the classic saga embodies all of the astonishing drama, romance, and intrigue of ancient Greece.

FROM SARAH: 

The dramatic follow-up to The Illiad, retold by the extraordinary Rosemary Sutcliff. Recommended for ages 10 and up.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Homer's epic poem, The Odyssey, is one of the greatest adventure stories of all time and Rosemary Sutcliff stays true to the classic tale and characters in this authentic retelling rich with drama, magic, and heroism.

FROM SARAH:

The perfect introduction to The Odyssey, by the author of The Magic Treehouse series! Don't miss Part Two in our "Books about Ancient Greece and Rome" list. An excellent choice for younger readers, ages 6 and up.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Brave Odysseus is far from home, tossed by stormy seas, and cursed by an angry one-eyed giant. If he ever wants to see his family again, he will have to face hungry cannibals, outwit a beautiful witch, and sail past a six-headed serpent. His journey is the ultimate test of endurance and courage.

FROM SARAH: 

Part Two of the epic story, retold by Mary Pope Osborne! An excellent choice for younger readers, ages 6 and up.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

After twenty years of fighting monsters, angering gods and goddesses, and surviving against the odds, Odysseus is more desperate than ever to return to his family. But first he will have to explore yet another strange land. And when he finally does return home, he will have yet more dangerous enemies to face.

FROM SARAH:

One of the best tales representing the world of Ancient Rome- slave galleys and battles at sea, chariot races, centurions, and more, all set against the backdrop of the life of Christ. A stunning epic that teens- especially boys- love.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

A timeless work of inspiration, perseverance, and faith, Ben-Hur was a bestseller from the time it was published in the 1880s well until the 1930s. It has been adapted into a play and an Academy Award-winning film. No wonder Wallace’s desire to be remembered as a highly successful military hero has been thwarted. Instead, he is best known as the author of this well-loved tale of human despair and redemption.

FROM SARAH:

A lift-the-flap adventure for history-lovers and mystery-solvers! Vibrant, fascinating and tons of fun.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

With more than 80 lift-the-flaps and with flaps under flaps, this book introduces readers to the truth behind some of ancient Greece's most incredible stories and superstitions. Children will learn about the society of ancient Greece, its sports, social hierarchy, and so much more. This immersive book unearths some of the most astonishing aspects of an illustrious culture.

FROM SARAH:

Perfect for readers ages 4 and up, this timeless tale explores themes of greed, gratitude, and the priceless value of love. It allows us to ask the all-important question... how much is "enough"?

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

When a mysterious stranger offers to reward Midas for a kindness, the king does not hesitate: He wishes that all he touches would turn to gold. To his delight, his wish is granted and he soon sets about transforming his ordinary palace into a place of golden beauty. But to his dismay, when he accidentally turns his beloved daughter into a golden statue, Midas learns that what at first seems a blessing can also become a curse.

FROM SARAH:

Meet Flora, a ferret with a heart for music, written and illustrated by the incredible Astrid Sheckels! We are thrilled to share our dearest Flora with each one of you, and we hope you love her whimsical, beautiful, heartfelt story as much as we do.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

A Cinderella-like animal story set in the 1920s for readers with a song in their heart, written and illustrated by Astrid Sheckels.

FROM SARAH:

I love a beautiful picture book that explores nature AND tells an incredible story at the same time. The lyrical text by Candace Flemming and lush illustrations by Eric Rohmann bring vivid detail to the life of a honeybee, and the ending pages are full of fascinating information that will intrigue your older readers.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

A tiny honeybee emerges through the wax cap of her cell. Driven to protect and take care of her hive, she cleans the nursery and feeds the larvae and the queen. But is she strong enough to fly? Not yet!

Apis builds wax comb to store honey, and transfers pollen from other bees into the storage. She defends the hive from invaders. And finally, she begins her new life as an adventurer.

The confining walls of the hive fall away as Apis takes to the air, finally free, in a brilliant double-gatefold illustration where the clear blue sky is full of promise-- and the wings of dozens of honeybees, heading out in search of nectar to bring back to the hive.

FROM SARAH:

I love a story with a brave, unexpected hero, and The Spider Who Saved Christmas reminds us that even the smallest creatures can make the biggest difference. Truly beautiful illustrations bring this enchanting story to life, perfect for readers of all ages.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:
he Spider Who Saved Christmas spins the enchanting faith-filled tale of Nephila, a cave-dwelling spider who plays a pivotal role central to the Christmas story. This instant classic reveals the origin of Christmas tinsel and reminds us that hope can always be found even in dark places where we least expect it.

FROM SARAH:

David Rubel, a historian, researched the origins of the Rockefeller Christmas tree and crafted this beautiful story as an “origin myth” — a fictional tale that aligns with known facts, but fills in emotional and imaginative gaps with a heart-felt story. The illustrations are magnificent, perfect for lingering over with a cup of cocoa.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

This modern classic Christmas story teaches children the spirit of the season by bringing together two great New York City traditions: the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree and the neighbor-helping-neighbor program of Habitat for Humanity.

FROM SARAH:

Based on the true story of the owl found in the 2020 Rockefeller tree, this beautifully illustrated picture book invites us into thoughtful conversation about compassion, nature, and what it means to care for others — especially when they’re small.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Co-written by Ellen Kalish, caretaker of the real owl found inside the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, The Christmas Owl is a charming story of friendship, compassion, and the true meaning of this special time of year.

FROM SARAH: 

Calling all bird-watchers! This darling picture book is the perfect introduction to birding, filled with soft illustrations and plenty of facts for nature-loving kids and grown-ups alike. 

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

A young girl and her mother participate as community scientists in the Christmas Bird Count. The girl is excited when Big Al, the leader of their team, asks her to record the tally this year. Using her most important tools―her eyes and ears―she eagerly identifies and counts the birds they observe on their assigned route around town. She and her team follow the rules, noting the time of day, the habitat, the birding ID techniques used for each sighting.

FROM SARAH:

This timeless classic is perfect for Christmas, Easter, or any moment of reflection as we consider the dreams we carry and the Divine calling upon our lives. A beautiful reminder that we are all made for a glorious purpose.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

“Once upon a mountaintop, three little trees stood and dreamed of what they wanted to become when they grew up …” So begins this enchanting American folktale. Perfect for all ages, Angela Elwell Hunt’s ingenuous retelling of this timeless story has delighted readers for generations.

FROM SARAH:

This (very short!) book is pure gold. True peace is possible for all of us, even in the midst of bustling family life. For all the weary and burdened of heart - Father Jacques Philippe's wisdom will be a balm to you soul.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Peace of heart is a pure gift of God. We should seek it and ask Him for it.

FROM SARAH:

What do you get when you mix three brave siblings, a talking dog, an outerspace adventure and a faith-filled allegory? This series opener is a fantastic choice for kids who loved The Wingfeather Saga, The Chronicles of Narnia and The Green Ember. Recommended for readers 8 and up.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

To save the world from certain destruction, three siblings and their shapeshifting alien guide embark on an out-of-this-world adventure in search of an ancient, all-powerful weapon.

FROM SARAH:

A tribute to the power of reading aloud, this thrilling novel is filled with unforgettable characters, daring escapes, and the haunting beauty of words. Inkheart is the first volume in The Inkworld Trilogy — a must-read for anyone who’s ever wished their favorite book could come to life. Heads up that there are a few instances of mild language, so I'd recommend this one for ages 12 and up.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:
One cruel night, Meggie's father reads aloud from a book called INKHEART-- and an evil ruler escapes the boundaries of fiction and lands in their living room. Suddenly, Meggie is smack in the middle of the kind of adventure she has only read about in books. Meggie must learn to harness the magic that has conjured this nightmare. For only she can change the course of the story that has changed her life forever.

FROM SARAH:

From Sarah: We are huge fans of Karina Yan Glaser here at RAR, and her newest novel does not disappoint. A dazzling dual-timeline adventure, this story is one to be treasured. It's perfect for readers 9 and up.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Breathtaking suspense, unforgettable characters, and a pinch of magic combine in the dual stories of two young people—one in 731 China, and one in 1931 Chinatown—on perilous journeys to save their families. An instant classic from the beloved and bestselling author of the Vanderbeekers series.

FROM SARAH:

A magic train full of witty, charming animals and boxcars filled with candy and swimming pools? All aboard for an action-packed fantasy adventure, perfect for readers 8 and up. Just a note that our main character is a bit sassy at the beginning, but her character arc is truly beautiful. This one is also delighful as an audiobook!

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

From the #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Magicians comes a must-read, wholly original middle-grade debut perfect for fans of The Chronicles of Narnia and Roald Dahl.

FROM SARAH:

A stunning, heart-breaking-and-remaking twist on the ancient Greek myths, this beautiful novel is a tribute to friendship and the kind of love that lasts long after loss. It deals heavily with the death of a parent, but it is redemptive and hopeful, leaving readers 8 and up with a sense of joy and gratitude for the life we have been given.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:
Critically acclaimed author Corey Ann Haydu crafts a spellbinding tale following the modern-day descendants of ancient Greek gods—and how two young girls struggling against the weight of the family history end up becoming their own epic myth with large consequences.

FROM SARAH:

It's not everyday that a sequel to a beloved story is as fantastic as the first, but Katherine Rundell has brought us back into the magical world of the Archipelago with just as much beauty, adventure, redemption and heart as she did in Impossible Creatures. Grab your tissues for this one, friends. It's not to be missed! Recommended for ages 12 and up.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Return to the magic of the Archipelago in the dazzling sequel to the runaway, #1 New York Times bestseller Impossible Creatures, hailed as “an instant classic” (Katherine Applegate, Newbery Medal Winner for The One and Only Ivan)!

FROM SARAH:

An absolute delight and a joy to read aloud, this hilarious chapter book will keep readers giggling through the whimsical adventure between a kindly dragon, Miss Drake, and her pet human, Winnie. I'd recommend this one for kids 6 and up who love precocious main characters and lots of witty banter.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:
Fans of How to Train Your Dragon will love this whimsical tale, the first in a series, by a Newbery Honor winner, featuring charming illustrations and pet "training tips" in each chapter.

FROM SARAH:

A nod to the old radio shows that captivated listeners before the age of television, this nostalgic treat is a wonderful collection of our E. Nesbit favorites.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

A BBC Radio collection of dramatisations of E. Nesbit's finest children's books with extra magical readings plus an original drama by Martin Jameson.

FROM SARAH:

A new favorite! This delightful story is hilarious, charming and so much fun. It's perfect for kids who love chickens and belive strongly in "important rock work". Don't miss the sequel!

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

When Skunk plows into Badger’s life, everything Badger knows is upended. Tails are flipped. The wrong animal is sprayed. And why-oh-why are there so many chickens?

FROM SARAH:

This beautiful, heartfelt novel is the perfect addition to our Family Book Club collection. Filled with courageous characters and just the right amount of mystery, it’s a story about growing up, finding your voice, and learning that healing can happen in the most unexpected places. Recommended for ages 10 and up.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

When Halle and her mother both come down with TB, they are shunned—and then they are sent to the J.N. Adam Tuberculosis Hospital: far from home, far from family, far from the world.

Tucked away in the woods of upstate New York, the hospital is a closed and quiet place. But it is not, Halle learns, a prison. Free of her worried and difficult father for the first time in her life, she slowly discovers joy, family, and the healing power of honey on the children's ward, where the girls on the floor become her confidantes and sisters. But when Mama suffers a lung hemorrhage, their entire future—and recovery—is thrown into question....

FROM SARAH: 

A wild romp through a fantastical world full of characters that reflect many facets of human nature, this classic adventure is as sharp as it is witty. I'd recommend it for readers 13 and up who love a little side-eye and satire when it comes to exploring the human condition.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

A wickedly clever satire uses comic inversions to offer telling insights into the nature of man and society. Nominated as one of America’s best-loved novels by PBS’s The Great American Read.

FROM SARAH: 

This incredible memoir invites us to bear witness to some of the most formative years in the life of C.S. Lewis. His diary entires capture his intellectual struggles, spiritual wrestling and even his daily routines with the gentle wisdom we've come to expect from Lewis. I'd recommend it for readers 16 and up.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Covering five remarkable years in Lewis's life, All My Road Before Me charts the inspirations and intellectual and spiritual development of a man whose theology and writing—including Mere Christianity, The Screwtape Letters, The Great Divorce, The Chronicles of Narnia, and many other beloved classics—has had immense influence on the Christian world.

FROM SARAH:

Our favorite little owl is back with his very own Christmas story! This adorable board book is perfect for your earliest listeners and a fantastic companion story to the original Knight Owl picture book. Check out our Family Book Club Guide for Knight Owl and share in lots of fun activities featuring this brave little guy and all his friends! Age Rec: Birth and up.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:
Celebrate the winter season with Knight Owl and friends as they gather for a special Christmas celebration in this festive board book bursting with holiday cheer, featuring beloved characters from the #1 New York Times bestselling series.

FROM SARAH:

Written by a speech pathologist and an expert in early language development, this stunning board book is a tribute to friendship. I love the watercolor illustations and the full story arc, not to mention the adorable woodland creatures! Age Rec: Birth and up

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Celebrate the magic of the season with Our Little Adventures at Christmas, a heartwarming Christmas board book for babies and toddlers from author and illustrator Tabitha Paige

FROM SARAH:

If you love the original Mr. Willowby as much as I do, you are going to delight in this new Christmas story based on a lost-then-found manuscript by Robert Barry! A delightful Christmas romp, this one is filled with many of the same characters as the original, and maintains the rhythm and rhyme of Barry's original work. Age Rec: 4 and up

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Mr. Willowby's Christmas Tree has been a holiday favorite since 1963. Now, its generations of fans can read a new Mr. Willowby story, thanks to the discovery of a long lost manuscript and sketches by the creator Robert Barry, lovingly brought to life in a thrilling new picture book.

FROM SARAH:

Radiant illustrations and poetic text make this stunning book perfect for Christmas-time reflection. I love each of the different gifts the animals bring; some tangible, some musical, all heartfelt. This one has a lot of text, so it's best for a child with a longer attention span. Age Rec: 4 and up

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

An awe-inspiring Christmas tale from multi-award-winning poet Nikki Grimes.

FROM SARAH:

I was instantly swept away by this stunning retelling of "Mary's Song", drawing readers into the wonder and mystery of Christ's birth. Mothers will resonate deeply with Mary as she dotes on every inch of her beloved Baby, and every heart will be filled afresh with worship. Age Rec: 4 and up

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Poetic text by Newbery Medalist Katherine Paterson and striking images by Lisa Aisato reveal the intimacy of that unforgettable night long ago, when the mother of Jesus was the first to welcome him into a world he would change forever.

FROM SARAH:

This adorable lift-the-flap picture book is filled with vivid illustrations and plenty of surprises that celebrate Christmas traditions from all over the world! I'd recommend it for ages 4 and up since there are lots of little flaps to lift! Age Rec: 4 and up

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Discover the unique ways children across the world celebrate Christmas in this captivating festive guide with 144 flaps to open.

FROM SARAH:

A gentle read-aloud filled with simple illustrations and lyrical text make this one perfect for your littlest listeners. Age Rec: all ages

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Song of the Stars, written by bestselling author Sally Lloyd-Jones, takes children on the journey of Advent and the anticipation of Jesus’ arrival. All of creation comes together in this poetic and majestic telling of the Christmas story. Join every creature as they celebrate the arrival of Jesus!

FROM SARAH:

Matt Tavaras, one of RAR's favorite author/ illustrators, is back with another story about Dasher, the reindeer with big dreams and an even bigger heart. You will want to pour over every page filled with lush language and stunning illustrations. Age rec: 4 and up

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Matt Tavares’s sequel to the New York Times best-selling Dasher is a joyful ode to helping others—and another holiday classic in the making.

FROM SARAH:

Matt Tavaras, one of RAR's favorite author/ illustrators, is back with another story about Dasher, the reindeer with big dreams and an even bigger heart. You will want to pour over every page filled with lush language and stunning illustrations. Age rec: 4 and up

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

In this all-new Christmas tale, Dasher the reindeer discovers that the only thing better than making Christmas magic is making a new friend to share it with.

FROM SARAH:

If you are glad to live in a world where there are Christmases, you are going to love this gentle picture book celebrating Anne, Diana and all their Green Gables friends. Age rec: 4 and up

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

A heartwarming holiday picture book inspired by L.M. Montgomery's beloved classic Anne of Green Gables.

FROM SARAH:

I love this precious story of little woodland creatures who are willing to give up their own Christmas gifts to help a neighbor in need. It's a gentle reminder of how much we need each other, and how much love we all have to give! Age Rec: 4 and up

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

A group of animal friends discovers the true meaning of Christmas as they help a swallow in need.

FROM SARAH:

You know how much I love mice! And a little family of mice who jump in and care for someone in need? It's Christmas perfection! This one is sure to be read over and over again. Age Rec: 4 and up

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

A modern classic full of heart and holiday cheer, starring an adorable cast of mouse characters, perfect for fans of Little Red Sleigh.

FROM SARAH:

A beautiful color palette and calming illustrations bring life to Longfellow's classic poem, perfect for bedtime or snuggle-time this season. Age Rec: 6 and up for advanced vocabulary

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

A timeless Christmas poem brought to gorgeous life in a keepsake edition for the modern family, with gold foil details

FROM SARAH:

The Bletchley Riddle is an exciting middle-grade novel about the top-secret WWII location, Bletchley Park. It's based on the true setting of the Allied codebreakers stationed here, doggedly working to decrypt German ciphers, including the elusive Enigma machine. The book is told in alternating viewpoints--from one of the codebreakers, desperate to break Enigma's code, to his intrepid, plucky sister, determined to discover the truth behind their mother's unexplained disappearance. I loved reading this one for myself!

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

A thrilling mystery and collaboration between award-winning and bestselling authors Ruta Sepetys and Steve Sheinkin! This historical adventure follows two siblings at Bletchley Park, the home of WWII codebreakers, as they try to unravel a mystery surrounding their mother’s disappearance.

FROM SARAH:

The warm, saturated illustrations in this picture book are as warm and delicious as the text — filled with family, love, and lemon meringue pie. Gather the ones you love around your table and savor it together; perfect for readers and chefs of all ages.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

For the first time, it’s up to Alexander to contribute a dish for the table, something warm and satisfying, with just the right amount of sweetness—something that the whole family will love and, most of all, will make his dad proud. It’s time for Alexander to spread that Sunday joy!

FROM SARAH:

A Visit to Brambly Hedge by Jill Barklem is an inside peek into the marvelous, cozy world of Brambly Hedge. Full of stories, sketches and archival material, this behind-the-scenes look into one of the beloved landscapes of children's literature, A Visit to Brambly Hedge is a new title that reads like an instant classic.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Immerse yourself in the world of the hedgerow in this collection of unpublished artwork, photos and never-see-before content from the creator of the beloved Brambly Hedge stories.

FROM SARAH:

A story reminiscent of novels such as Number the Stars and Snow Treasure, this story unfolds in the German-occupied Netherlands during World War II. Piet dreams of completing the same skating race as his hero, Pim Mulier, who was the first to skate the Elfstedentocht (a famous race that goes through eleven towns along frozen canals). Piet is now called upon to undertake the race of his life–rescuing two children in dangerous circumstances. A longer picture book for multiple sittings, this is an inspiring story of courage!

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

In 1941 Piet, a young Dutch boy from Sluis, gets the assignment of a lifetime: He must skate along the frozen canals of the Netherlands and across the Belgian border, in order to guide two neighborhood children to their aunt's house in Brugge, where the children will remain for the duration of World War II. Their father has been taken by German soldiers, and the children are no longer safe in Sluis -- but the journey with Piet, past soldiers and enemies, is fraught with danger.

FROM SARAH:

Matt Tavares beautifully captures the magic of a child's first big-league game in these nostalgic black and white illustrations and dream-like text. This one feels like stepping into an old movie; being surrounded by popcorn and Cracker Jacks and cheering for the home team from the stands. I recommend it for sports fans of all ages.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

When Zachary’s father catches a foul ball at Fenway Park and gives it to him, something really amazing happens. Zachary finds himself on the pitcher’s mound, wearing a Red Sox uniform and playing against New York! As long as Zachary has the ball, all his baseball fantasies seem to come true. But can he hold on to its magic? Zachary’s Ball, Matt Tavares’s debut picture book, is a perfect story for celebrating the 100th birthday of the setting that inspired it: Boston’s Fenway Park, the oldest park still in use by a major-league club — and one of the country’s most beloved ballparks.