Books

FROM SARAH:

We love a stunning picture book biography, and master-illustrator Matt Tavares hits a home run in this incredible story of baseball legend Babe Ruth. With vivid illustrations and heartfelt storytelling, Matt traces Babe Ruth’s journey from mischievous child to beloved sports icon, capturing his rise to fame and the legacy he left behind.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:
Matt Tavares sheds light on an icon who learned early that life is what you make of it — and sends home a message about honoring the place you come from. Back matter includes an author’s note, Babe Ruth’s career statistics, and a bibliography.

FROM SARAH:

Matt Tavares brings us another brilliant picture book biography that’s perfect for sports fans of all ages. The grit, determination, and passion in Pedro’s story is wonderfully inspiring, but I think the best part of this book is the deep bond of brotherhood shared between Pedro and his older brother, Ramon.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Before Pedro Martínez pitched the Red Sox to a World Series championship, before he was named to the All-Star team eight times, before he won the Cy Young three times, he was a kid from a place called Manoguayabo in the Dominican Republic. Pedro loved baseball more than anything, and his older brother Ramon was the best pitcher he’d ever seen. He’d dream of the day he and his brother could play together in the major leagues — and here, Matt Tavares tells the story of how that dream came true.

FROM SARAH:

Do you remember the excitement of your first sleepover? Maybe you felt a little nervous like Ira and wanted to bring a buddy along. This classic picture book is a delightful reminder that the best kind of friend will always welcome you (and your teddy bear) with open arms.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

A charming and relatable picture book about a child's first sleepover experience from the beloved author-illustrator of Lyle, Lyle Crocodile.

FROM SARAH:

Set on a small island just off the coast of Scotland, this story follows a female pilot learning to face her fears after a terrifying near miss. It’s a heartwarming mix of self-discovery, courage, and a slow-burn romance that unfolds against the charm and wild beauty of the Scottish isles. It is part of Jenny Colgan’s Mure series, but is completely enjoyable as a standalone. This book is perfect for anyone who loves stories about second chances, adventure, and finding yourself again.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

New York Times bestselling author Jenny Colgan takes us to the gloriously windswept islands of northern Scotland, where we meet young Morag McGinty, who runs the puddle-jumper flights that serve the islands’ tiny but proudly feisty population.

FROM SARAH:

It's one of the best books I've read all year! The writing is fantastic, the pacing is perfect, and the plot makes this book impossible to put down. If you're looking for a novel to pull you out of reading slump, this is a fantastic option. P.S. This is technically considered a thriller but it's not scary, just fast-paced.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

In the heart of the Maine woods, an experienced Appalachian Trail hiker goes missing. She is forty-two-year-old Valerie Gillis, who has vanished 200 miles from her final destination. Alone in the wilderness, Valerie pours her thoughts into fractured, poetic letters to her mother as she battles the elements and struggles to keep hoping.

FROM SARAH:

I love a book that’s full of onomatopoeia, and this adorable story from RAR favorite Jan Brett is a delight to read aloud. As in all of Jan’s books, your readers will get swept up in the illustrations and be entirely captivated by the story.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

What's that strange buzz coming from the double bass? Berlioz has no time to investigate, because he and his bear orchestra are due at the gala ball in the village square at eight. But Berlioz is so worried about his buzzing bass that he steers the mule and his bandwagon full of magicians into a hole in the road and gets stuck.

FROM SARAH:

A new wintertime classic. From the cozy, intricate illustrations to the heartwarming story of found friendship, this absolutely darling picture book is one you’ll want for your very own shelves.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

What makes a house a home? This sweet story, with jaw- dropping hand-painted illustrations and die-cut flaps, is the perfect cozy tale for bedtime.

FROM SARAH:

Curl up and get cozy with your littlest ones to share this sweet Christmas story. A holiday board book with beautiful language and timeless illustrations - a classic in my home!

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

A modern Christmas classic about how the animals prepare a cozy welcome for the baby Jesus, perfect for under the tree or in stockings.

FROM SARAH:

The vivid, lively illustrations in this picture book biography just sing. You can almost hear the music pouring off of every page. I highly recommend putting on some of Melba’s incredible music when you finish this one.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

A biography of African American jazz virtuoso Melba Doretta Liston, a pioneering twentieth-century trombone player, composer, and music arranger at a time when few women, of any race, played brass instruments and were part of the jazz scene.

FROM SARAH:

52 Modern Manners for Today's Teens is a unique and easy way to help your kids navigate the social situations they may encounter as they begin to grow up. Written by Brooke Romney, these books are chock-full of helpful tips and practical tidbits to help your children grow into delightful adults

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

52 Modern Manners for Today's Teens is a simple, inexpensive solution that guides parents and adds connection to your family so your teens can live a more successful life.

This book doesn’t teach old school manners, but the more current, nuanced manners that set people up for fulfillment in relationships, school, work, and life. Things like: Nothing online is private, the way you smell matters, don’t leave just one person out, pitch in, introduce yourself, and so many more.

The innovative design is a stand-up, flip calendar with the main manner on the front and more details on the back. It serves as a visual reminder all week of how to interact or allows more stubborn teens to learn casually on their own. The manners are short, direct, and to the point, and include the why behind each one.

FROM SARAH:

No Purchase Necessary is captivating middle grade novel written by Maria Marianayagam and is an absolute delight to read! I'd recommend it for readers ages 10-15.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Ajay Anthonipillai has a million-dollar problem. Ajay has lived his life dutifully following the rules set by his Tamil parents. However, moving to a new school gives Ajay a new rule to follow: Get on seventh-grade all-star Jacob Underson’s good side.

When Jacob asks him to steal a Mercury bar from Scary Al’s convenience store, Ajay feels this is his chance to finally “get cool” and stop eating alone. But Jacob rejects the stolen chocolate bar, leaving Ajay to unwrap it and discover that it contains Mercury’s Twenty-fifth Anniversary Grand Prize…one million dollars.

Faced with an extreme dilemma, Ajay will have to bear the weight of his actions and battle his morality in deciding whether to claim the prize that may change the life of his family forever.

FROM SARAH:

You’ll feel empowered and encouraged after reading Laura’s work, equipped with practical tools to help you make intentional choices about how you spend your time. It reminded me that time is not a thief, but a landscape, and we have the opportunity to shape it in ways that bless us and those we love.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

It's an unquestioned truth of modern life: we are starved for time. We tell ourselves we'd like to read more, get to the gym regularly, try new hobbies, and accomplish all kinds of goals. But then we give up because there just aren't enough hours to do it all. Or if we don't make excuses, we make sacrifices- taking time out from other things in order to fit it all in. There has to be a better way...and Laura Vanderkam has found one.

FROM SARAH:

This is a fantastic follow-up to Laura’s book, 168 Hours, filled with her natural optimism, practicality, and gentle guidance about how to make the most of the abundant time we have been given. Instead of focusing on the hours in a week, Laura zooms out and invites readers to consider the year as a whole. Both books are incredible tools for time management, filled with wisdom, encouragement and a variety of tactics for implementing her ideas into your everyday life.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:
By turns surprising, thought-provoking, and encouraging, Big Time shows readers that the daily experience of time can be quite spacious―and that, managed well, each day’s hours can be a source of happiness and satisfaction.

FROM SARAH:

If you’ve ever wondered if the world’s most fantastical legends are true, you are going to love this story of a brave scientist who is out to find a mysterious creature lurking beneath the waters of the Arctic. Part danger, part discovery, this whimsical story is filled with stunning illustrations and is a new RAR favorite.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

In this strikingly illustrated debut with a quirky, surreal sensibility, the tale of an Arctic expedition invites readers to discover an elusive creature.

FROM SARAH:

Mac Barnett’s sparse, poetic narration and torn paper art by Shawn Harris bring this majestic polar bear’s story to life, inviting readers to follow him on a journey through the Arctic landscape. Quick enough to be read before bedtime and engaging enough to be read over and over, this one is perfect for ages three and up.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

A majestic polar bear heads out on a mysterious walk in a dazzling, playful collaboration from an exciting pair of picture-book creators.

FROM SARAH:

A celebration of the northern lights and all the creatures that marvel at their swirling colors, this stunning picture book feels like stepping into a winter dream where the sky itself is the storyteller. Lyrical text that’s written in rhyme makes this a great fit for early readers and listeners alike.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

The northern lights bring wonder and joy to all the creatures who bask under their mysterious glow in this gorgeous picture book from the creator of the holiday hit The Tree That's Meant to Be.

FROM SARAH:

This fascinating non-fiction picture book is perfect for young naturalists who are curious about the thousands of creatures who make the dangerous journey to the Arctic north every Spring. The gentle color palette and vivid text bring wonderful detail to the beauty and harshness of Arctic life.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

At the top of our world is a huge wild place called the Arctic. In the winter, it is a cold and barren land, where few animals can survive. But when spring comes, it attracts animals from every corner of the earth. This lushly illustrated picture book celebrates the resilient wildlife and barren, beautiful landscapes of the Arctic Circle, tracing the awe-inspiring spring migration of millions of creatures to the Arctic and reminding the reader of the hardships and harmony of life in the wild.

FROM SARAH:

I love a compelling non-fiction picture book that captivates readers from page one, and this remarkable story does not disappoint. Amanda Abler shares the dramatic rescue of a baby orca, separated from her pod by hundreds of miles, nursed back to health and released back into the wild. I’d recommend it for readers seven and up.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

A compelling nonfiction picture book about the remarkable rescue of an orphaned orca calf, Springer (A73), whose story captured the hearts of whale lovers throughout the Pacific Northwest.

FROM SARAH:

This illustrated chapter book reminds me of the “Hundred Acre Woods” if it was set in the Arctic. A sweet, curious polar bear, a bossy puffin, slightly vain musk ox, a shy caribou, and a host of other charming characters will make this a new family favorite.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

An inquisitive polar bear named Duane befriends an array of animals as he discovers where he belongs in this charming classic-in-the making.

FROM SARAH:

This book tells the story of Lily and her life-changing decision to leave behind almost certain fame to serve the poor is deeply moving. Her vision, creativity and devotion changed countless lives, reminding us that sometimes the greatest adventure is found when we choose a purpose far bigger than ourselves.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

“I will make you the greatest living artist in all of England! But you must work very hard at your art, and you must decide between your art and your work with the poor.” This was the choice that John Ruskin, the celebrated Victorian art critic, presented to the young Lilias Trotter. With a storyteller’s eye and ear, Sally Oxley traces the steps that led up to this turning point in Lilias Trotter’s life and the amazing adventure that followed as she turned her back on worldly fame and set out in faith for the mission work in North Africa.

FROM SARAH:

For those of us who have ever loved a painting so much we wish we could reach inside and touch it, this beautiful picture book is an absolute delight. We get to follow Katie as she explores five of Vincent Van Gogh’s most iconic paintings, celebrating the moment where art meets adventure.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Join Katie as she steps into some of the most famous paintings in the world for an exciting art adventure!

FROM SARAH:

This one is art biography, part activity book. It's a fascinating walk through Van Gogh’s life is filled with opportunities to practice your own art, all while learning more about what inspired some of his most famous works.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

See the world through Vincent van Gogh's eyes and be inspired to produce your own masterpieces.

FROM SARAH:

I think you'll just love Rose’s story. She was the underestimated, unsung hero of her museum, proving that one person’s cleverness, courage and love can change the course of history.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

This riveting, “visually stunning” (Kirkus Reviews, starred review) picture book biography tells the true story of Rose Valland’s valiant efforts to save thousands of works of art during World War II by becoming a spy in her own museum.

FROM SARAH:

Ravi and his friends are back for the fantastic and thrilling conclusion to “The Restorationists” series. This trilogy is perfect for art-loving kids who enjoy courage filled quests and rich, creative worlds.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

A foe-turned-friend must learn to trust his new allies or risk losing his chance of finding a forever home in this thrilling conclusion of the award-winning Restorationists trilogy.

FROM SARAH:

An epic, faith-based fantasy full of courage and friendship; this novel is one you won’t want to miss. With its complex themes of light and darkness and wonderfully redemptive storyline, I’d recommend it for readers ten and up.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

A band of misfits seek to fight the darkness that’s slowly overcoming their kingdom—the start of a grand adventure series in the tradition of The Chronicles of Narnia and the Wingfeather Saga.

FROM SARAH:

I saw this book at a book conference and had to pull it off the shelf and read it for myself. It's absolutely stunning and is a perfect winter read to share with your littlest readers who are still afraid of the dark.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

On an island at the edge of a silvery sea, when the moon rises and night falls, a girl spins a story for her worried cousin to help him find comfort in the wintery dark. She invites him to see moonlight glittering in the forest, bioluminescence sparkling by the shore, and northern lights blazing in the sky. In the dark of the night, the whole world sings.

FROM SARAH:

Buffalo Fluffalo has had enuffalo! Little baby Puffalo is loud and demanding and disrupts everything about Buffalo Fluffalo's life. As Buffalo Fluffalo tries to adjust to all the new changes, he is suprised to discover that little baby Puffalo might just have something to teach him! If you have a new baby in the house, or your young children are struggling with the addition of a new sibling, this book is an absolute must-read. Written by Bess Kalb and illustrated by Erin Kraan, Buffalo Fluffalo and Puffalo is a hilarious and touching picture book that kids of all ages will enjoy reading aloud.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Every day, Buffalo Fluffalo goes about his usual routine. He munches all the grass he can eat, frolics and rollicks with his friends, and at noontime, lies down for a nap in the shade. But one morning, Fluffalo wakes up to a loud wailing cry and, to his surprise, finds a little buffalo named Puffalo with the tiniest, shiniest eyes!

At first, Fluffalo does not like Puffalo. “What does it need?” he huffs in alarm. But Crow wisely explains that Puffalo doesn't need much—just time to learn and grow. Slowly, Fluffalo watches as Puffalo learns to trip, slip, gallop, and trot. He teaches Puffalo to eat plants and to keep away from red ants. Together, the two take long strolls and snuggle for naps. And even though Puffalo sometimes slows him down, Fluffalo realizes that life is much better with Puffalo by his side.

FROM SARAH:

I bet you’ve never seen a travel journal like this one! As Basho explores the world of ancient Japan, he records all of his adventures in hand-painted illustrations and masterful haiku poetry. Each haiku is like a small treasure, revealing how magical everyday moments can be when you slow down and take the time to notice.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

This delightful volume—composed entirely in haiku based on the poet's written travelogues and illustrated with vibrant hand-painted scenes—tells the true story of Basho's decision to abandon his comfortable city life and of the five great journeys he then took across the length and breadth of Japan.

FROM SARAH:

Perfect for children (and grown-ups!) who are just learning the art of patience. This stunning picture book is filled with spectacular art and poetic, lyrical text. Patience, Miyuki is a calming, hopeful reminder that some of the most beautiful things in life take time, and good things can’t be rushed.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Miyuki is excited for the first day of spring—she can’t wait to rush outside and greet the cherry trees, the sweet grass, and all the garden flowers. But one little flower has yet to bloom. Miyuki is impatient for it to awaken, but her wise and understanding grandfather encourages her to slow down, watch, and wait.

FROM SARAH:

This absolutely delicious novel in verse will make anyone want to grab their tent and head to the woods. The easily decodable text and short chapters make it perfect for early readers, and the charming story and spirited characters make it a fantastic read-aloud for kids of all ages.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:
A "playful, delightfully illustrated verse narrative" (Kirkus) about two siblings who take on the great outdoors with their young-at-heart grandfather. Exuberantly illustrated by Caldecott Medal winner Matthew Cordell and filled with a variety of poetic forms, this camping romp is packed with family humor and adventure.

FROM SARAH:

The story follows a very patient shepherd and one extremely stubborn sheep who is determined to do things his own way. Funny and warm, this tale will delight not only your kids, but you too.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

The Good Shepherd and the Stubborn Sheep is a humorous and heartwarming picture book about God's unconditional love. This story beautifully captures the essence of Psalm 23, showing the importance of trusting God, our Good Shepherd, with our lives.

FROM SARAH:

Theo of Golden came to me recommended by just about everyone — I think three different friends recommended it in the same week, and I can take a hint, you know? So I read it, and I get it. Filled with genuine heart and hope, it's the kind of book that feels wise without being heavy-handed.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

A story of giving and receiving, of seeing and being seen, Theo of Golden is a beautifully crafted novel about the power of creative generosity, the importance of wonder to a purposeful life, and the invisible threads of kindness that bind us to one another.

FROM SARAH:

At Grandma’s table, every dish tells a story. This vibrant, lively picture book is a perfect compliment to When Alexander Graced the Table, also illustrated by Frank Morrison. Every image is full of life, sound, movement and joy. Just like your family’s favorite foods, this is a story you’ll reach for over and over again.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

From the award-winning author and illustrator of Standing in the Need of Prayer comes a joyous picture book about an intergenerational Black family cooking a delicious feast and appreciating their quality time together.

FROM SARAH:

You know I love a picture book biography! Bernette Ford tells the true story of visiting her uncle’s tiny garden tucked away in a big city, and she discovers the magic hidden inside every seed. Together with her family, she learns that sometimes there’s nothing better than watering, weeding and waiting for love to grow.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

How does this city garden grow? With help from L’il Sissy and her siblings--and love, love, love! A celebration of nature, family, and food.

FROM SARAH:

I think the most incredible thing about food is that it’s far more than a collection of flavors; it can hold memories, history, and belonging. Like a good story, it can hold us. This beautifully told and richly illustrated picture book is a heartfelt tribute to community, culture, and the power of food to carry history forward. This nourishing read reminds us that what we share at the table can help shape who we are.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Told in lively and powerful verse by debut author Kevin Noble Maillard, Fry Bread is an evocative depiction of a modern Native American family, vibrantly illustrated by Pura Belpre Award winner and Caldecott Honoree Juana Martinez-Neal.

FROM SARAH:

Before there was Hannah, there was Nathan, the gentle yet sturdy presence who served as our invitation to the “membership” in Port William. Nathan Coulter is a portrait of rural life rendered with deep affection — a story about belonging, memory, and the quiet forces that form a life. Recommended for readers 15+.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:
Welcome to Port William. In his debut novel and the first in his beloved series, Wendell Berry introduces readers to a place where community becomes "membership," bound by affection, duty, and an inseparable devotion to the land

FROM SARAH:
In Miracles, C. S. Lewis guides readers through a thoughtful journey into how God’s presence can be seen and experienced in the world. A warm reminder of our kind, magnificent, miracle-working God and Savior.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

In Miracles, C.S. Lewis challenges the rationalists and cynics who are mired in their lack of imagination and provides a poetic and joyous affirmation that miracles really do occur in everyday lives. He presents the idea that miracles are not compatible with nature and thus introduces evidence of a supernatural world. Lewis defines a miracle as “an interference with nature by supernatural power” and concludes they are not statistical anomalies because “miracles do not, in fact, break the laws of nature.”

FROM SARAH:

As the third book in the Anne of Green Gables series, Anne of the Island follows Anne Shirley into young adulthood as she sets off for college and steps into a wider world. Between lively friendships, unexpected suitors, and the bittersweet lessons of growing up, Anne’s spirit remains as bright and imaginative as ever. My oldest daughter's, Audrey, favorite book of this iconic series. Recommended for 14+.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

A new adventure awaits as Anne Shirley packs her bags, says goodbye to childhood, and heads off to Redmond College. With memories of her beloved Avonlea close to her heart, Anne dives into life in the bustling city of Kingsport. Surrounded by new and old friends, she embraces this exciting chapter.

FROM SARAH:

A playful rainforest adventure filled with animal antics and an oh-so-delightful plot, The Umbrella has a full‑circle, folktale‑style structure that is rhythmic and satisfying for readers of all ages.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

In the spirit of Jan Brett's The Mitten and The Hat, this cheerful tale of escalation will have readers poring over every illustration for the world of details Jan packs in. With its classic story, exotic jungle setting, and brilliantly colorful menagerie, The Umbrella is sure to take its place among Jan's many family favorites.

FROM SARAH:

Steven Kellogg transforms this classic tall tale into a whirlwind of color, comedy, and colossal feats. From carving out the Grand Canyon to creating the Great Lakes, Paul and Babe’s escapades leap off every page. This vibrant picture book is a celebration of imagination, heroism, and the joy of stories too big to be true… and too fun to resist.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

A funny retelling of the tallest of tall tales, the rollicking adventures of Paul Bunyan and his great blue ox, paired with the extravagant and lively illustrations of Steven Kellogg. Perfect for read-alouds full of laughter!

FROM SARAH:

Inspiration and practical application come together in this helpful guide for the Christian on a healing journey. This short read will carry you beyond its pages and into the arms of the Father's love.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

In Finding Freedom in Christ: Healing Life's Hurts, Dr. Matthew Breuninger examines the nature and causes of our wounds. Finding Freedom in Christ outlines a six-step model to help readers identify and remove the barriers to God's healing grace—making deeper conversion possible. Ultimately, the goal of this healing model is to free individuals to love and serve God and one another

FROM SARAH:

Sense and Suitability is a regency romance from Pepper Basham that pays tribute not only to Austen's original tale, but to her bravery in writing as a female novelist in her time. From a lively heroine and a reluctant hero to a precocious child that brings comic relief, Basham's characters are always a delight. I love how she writes sibling and cousin relationships, and this title is no exception—but it also boasts enough opinionated aunts to make P.G. Wodehouse proud! If you're looking for a sweet clean romance with a dash of humor to enjoy on your own, this one's a favorite of mine.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Filled with lively banter, adorable children, a frog named Blast, and swoony kisses, Sense and Suitability is the sweet Regency romance you've been looking for. Basham brings her signature humor to the Regency era where social strictures keep the tension tight in this second-chance, enemies-to-lovers romance.

FROM SARAH:

My heart was so encouraged and strengthened through this book. Andrea is an avid gardener, but it's not the garden she's focused on—it's on the ways the garden reveals more to her about the Lord through His creation and seasons. Each chapter is raw, honest, full of beautiful prose and poetry, and ends with a "Cultivate" section meant to help you cultivate your own garden, and even more so, your walk with the Lord.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

In A Bit of Earth, Andrea G. Burke looks at the seasonal practice and common grace of gardening through a devotional lens. Part memoir, part prayer book, A Bit of Earth weaves care and intent through moments of ordinary living. This book is a lifelong resource of Scripture, poetry, and prose on the life of faith for contemplatives, gardeners, and believers.

FROM SARAH:

Jan based this book on a fascinating experience she and her husband shared on a trip to Namibia in Africa. She says, "One morning we climbed up and sat by a freshwater spring. Sunny on the reddish rocks were little rock Dassies, the cutest and most unusual creatures you can imagine with a big bump of a nose like a koala bear, bright eyes and soft fur. A redheaded Agama lizard came along and acted as if he owned the place.”

This delightful tale is reminiscent of The Three Little Pigs, filled with all the delight and whimsy of Jan Brett.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Bold African patterns and prints fill the stunning borders, but it is the dassies in their bright, colorful dresses and hats that steal the show in this irresistible tale, perfect for reading aloud.

FROM SARAH:
After visiting India and encountering the Bengal tiger, Jan knew she had to make the stunning creature the focus of this lively story. She says, “I came across the Persian tale about the Abu Kassem's slippers cut into a wonderful novel, a story within a story. Fascinated by the timeless wisdom in the tale, how things in our past inform our present and future. I was inspired to retell the story and set it in the kaleidoscopic world of the Mughal courts.”

FROM THE PUBLISHER:
Jan Brett reimagines a powerful Middle Eastern folk tale that celebrates hard work and appreciating your roots.

FROM SARAH:

Explore habitats from around the world, or in your own backyard, with books from this series. Some of the titles are out-of-print but can still be found used online and make great additions to your nature and science bookshelves.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

The woods are full of puzzles to be solved, clues to be found. Inspired by this book's hints and fun-filled experiments and activities, and using only simple equipment, young readers unlock the closely guarded secrets of the woods­­from the strange meetings of lazy butterflies, to the miraculous "walking" of a twig, to the riddle of why the leaves turn color and fall. One small square at a time, these "detectives" plunge deeper and deeper into ancient mysteries­­without ever getting lost. Beautifully illustrated, Woods offers a picture field guide, a glossary-index, and a resource list.

FROM SARAH:

For anyone who thinks you can never have too many leafy friends, this darling picture book is an ode to all growing things. Young readers will fall in love with Leif’s gentle spirit, while adults will appreciate the story’s reminder that every act of care—no matter how small—can make the world a little brighter.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:
A boy’s green thumb grows wild in this playful debut picture book about the merriment and mishaps of collecting houseplants.

FROM SARAH:

A powerful story of determination and perseverance, Elena’s Story is perfect for older siblings who might feel prickly about helping out with littles, and for any kiddo who has struggled to learn to read. This story offers us a glimpse of life in rural Guatemala and allows us to learn a little bit about what it’s like to be a kid in another part of the world.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Elena lives near a small town in western Guatemala. She lives there with her mother, her younger brother, Luis, and her baby sister, Ana. Her father is far away, working on a plantation. Elena struggles to keep up in school. Her teacher says she needs to practice her reading, but it's hard to find time to read. She must help her mother with the cooking and housework, as well as the hard work of planting and weeding their garden. As the big sister Elena is also in charge of watching over Luis to keep him out of mischief. It isn't always easy and she gets impatient with her little brother.

FROM SARAH:

In a small village in Colombia, a young girl waits for the man who brings books across mountains and valleys to readers like her. This darling picture book is an homage to the hard-working people who brought stories to remote areas all over the world.

If you love this story, be sure to check out Waxwing’s beautiful picture book, Books Up the Mountain, the story of a woman who brought books to rural Appalachia during the Great Depression.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Inspired by the heroic efforts of real-life librarian Luis Soriano, award-winning picture book creators Monica Brown and John Parra introduce readers to the mobile library that journeys over mountains and through valleys to bring literacy and culture to rural Colombia, and to the children who wait for the BiblioBurro.

FROM SARAH:

From songwriter, poet, and academic Malcolm Guite comes a wild and winsome retelling of King Arthur and his knights. A new classic for the contemporary audience longing for timeless tales of adventure. I highly recommend for all fans of The Wilderking Trilogy and The Wingfeather Saga. Purchase right from Rabbit Room Press here.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

In this first volume of Merlin's Isle, join the prophesied youth, Sir Galahad, and the other knights of the quest as they set out from Camelot to achieve the Holy Grail. The accomplishment of their goal will not only heal the wounded Fisher-King, but will bring about the long hoped-for healing of the land itself.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

In this rich new biography, academic, priest and poet Malcolm Guite draws out how with an uncanny clarity, image after image and event after event in the poem became emblems of what Coleridge was later to suffer and discover. Of course 'The Rime of the Ancient Mariner' is more than just an individual's story: it is also a profound exploration of the human condition and, as Coleridge says in his gloss, our 'loneliness and fixedness'. But the poem also offers hope, release, and recovery; and Guite also draws out the continuing relevance of Coleridge's life and writing to our own time.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

The book is about the narrator’s (Anodos) dream-like adventures in fairyland, where he confronts tree-spirits and the shadow, sojourns to the palace of the fairy queen, and searches for the spirit of the earth. The tale is vintage MacDonald, conveying a profound sadness and a poignant longing for death.

FROM SARAH:

Explore habitats from around the world, or in your own backyard, with books from this series. Some of the titles are out-of-print but can still be found used online and make great additions to your nature and science bookshelves.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:
The African grasslands stretch across the continent below the Sahara. In a swuare of land about the size of a living room, children will see animals they might have encountered only at the zoo. . .discover the rewards and dangers of their natural home. . .and observe how these creatures live with each other in a changing, endangered environment. It's an exciting journey of discovery, coming to you from the One Small Square series of interactive science and nature books. . .where the next stop could be as near as your backyard or as far as half a world away.

FROM SARAH:

Explore habitats from around the world, or in your own backyard, with books from this series. Some of the titles are out-of-print but can still be found used online and make great additions to your nature and science bookshelves.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Bats and big cats. Armies of ants. Squawking parrots. Strangling figs. From the ground up to the tree tops, the tropical rainforest teems with life. Stunning drawings, step-by-step experiments, fun-to-do activities, and fascinating facts abound in this magical exploration of an essential ecosystem, in danger of disappearing forever.

FROM SARAH:

Continue on in the beloved series with the lovable residents of Mitford from the first book, plus a few new faces.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

In this beautifully crafted second novel in the Mitford series, #1 New York Times bestselling author Jan Karon delivers a love story that's both heartwarming and hilarious.

FROM SARAH:

We are overjoyed to welcome Books Up the Mountain to our Waxwing Books collection! Sharing this story with the wrold has been a dream come true for me. Caroline's way with words is utterly breathtaking, and paired with Gabrielle's whimsical illustrations, this will be one you (and your kids!) won't want to put down.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

A tale of courage, commitment and the transformative power of stories, Books Up the Mountain: A Packhorse Librarian Story is a compelling tribute to the brave women who served the people of the Appalachian mountains during the Great Depression. Written by Caroline Starr Rose and illustrated by Gabrielle Grimard, this picture book will capture young readers with its lyrical text, substantial back matter, and gorgeous illustrations.

FROM AUDREY:

This book was recommended to me by one of our members and I absolutely loved it. Iris's story is filled with heart and determination in all the best ways. It will leave you filled with a deeper sense of wonder for the vast and mysterious beauty of the world. Excellent on audio!

FROM THE PUBLISHER:
Full of heart and poignancy, this affecting story by sign language interpreter Lynne Kelly shows how a little determination can make big waves.

FROM SARAH:

For those who can't get enough of Anne (I mean, is that even possible?!), join her whimsical, bustling family on their glorious adventure simple, sweet childhood brings. Pure delight.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Anne Shirley is all grown up and happily married to Gilbert, with six lively children. Just like their mother, they love playing among the sun-dappled trees around their home.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

In C.S. Lewis―A Life, Alister McGrath, prolific author and respected professor at King’s College of London, paints a definitive portrait of the life of C. S. Lewis. After thoroughly examining recently published Lewis correspondence, Alister challenges some of the previously held beliefs about the exact timing of Lewis’s shift from atheism to theism and then to Christianity. He paints a portrait of an eccentric thinker who became an inspiring, though reluctant, prophet for our times.

FROM SARAH:

If you loved Light and Air, you will not want to miss Mindy Nichols Wendell’s next release. A powerful story of the devastation of the Dust Bowl—and the courage of those who survived it.

FROM THE PUBLISHER: