Books

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

An award-winning author/illustrator team offers a fresh look at the times and transitions all toddlers face daily, giving young children the tools to handle routines with confidence and cooperation.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Toddlers and pets belong together—as long as toddlers don’t chase, grab, squeeze, yank, and tease. In simple words and delightful illustrations, this book teaches the basics of kindness to animals: careful handling, awareness, safety, and respect. It also includes helpful tips for parents and caregivers.

**Description from Amazon: Kids need help learning how to manage their anger. Blending solid information and sound advice with humor and lively illustrations, these anger-management tips guide kids to understand that anger is normal and to learn they can express it in healthy ways. The book teaches them how to recognize anger...

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Even young children can learn that their words affect other people in powerful ways. In child-friendly language and full-color illustrations, this book gently guides them to choose words that are helpful instead of hurtful, and to say “I’m sorry” when hurtful words com out before they can stop them.

**Description from Amazon: Who has the most power to stop and prevent bullying? Teachers? Parents? The Principal of the Universe? No, no, and no way! When it comes to changing bullying behavior, nobody has more power than upstanders—all the people who see bullying or know it’s happening . . . and decide to do something ab...

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

It’s boys vs. girls when the noisiest, most talkative, and most competitive fifth graders in history challenge one another to see who can go longer without talking. Teachers and school administrators are in an uproar, until an innovative teacher sees how the kids’ experiment can provide a terrific and unique lesson in communication.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Nora's managed to make it to the fifth grade without anyone figuring out that she's not just an ordinary kid, and she wants to keep it that way. But then Nora gets fed up with the importance everyone attaches to test scores and grades, and she purposely brings home a terrible report card just to prove a point. Suddenly the attention she's successfully avoided all her life is focused on her, and her secret is out. And that's when things start to get really complicated....

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Meet Imogene Tripp, a plucky girl with a passion for history. As a baby, her first words were “Four score and seven years ago.” In preschool, she finger-painted a map of the Oregon Trail.

FROM THE PUBLISHER

Designed to introduce poetry to young people, this collection offers a wide variety of poems compiled by Laura Berquist of Mother of Divine Grace School.

FROM SARAH:

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

FROM THE PUBLISHERS:

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

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

FROM SARAH:

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

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

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

FROM SARAH:

If you're going to Maine anytime soon, pair reading this book with a trip to the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, where you can see Nancy Schön's sculpture of Sal's Bear. This charming story of a girl and a bear cub both collecting blueberries is a timeless classic. Every home library needs it.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Sal goes blueberry picking with mama, but it turns out a mama bear and baby bear had the same idea. Wait - will the right babies go home with the right mamas?

FROM SARAH:

As each new child arrives in the family, the family food requests get more and more complicated, and Mrs. Peters finds herself accommodating more and more tricky appetites. But when her birthday comes, so does a surprise.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Peter wants only milk, Lucy won’t settle for anything but homemade lemonade, and Jack is stuck on applesauce. Each new addition to the household brings a new demand for a special meal. What’s a mother to do?

FROM SARAH:

Paul Galdone brings some of my favorite stories to life with his stunning and lively illustrations. This collection is made up of four individual books, making it perfect for a quick read-aloud at bedtime (or any time!).

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

No child should be without the best versions of the best stories, all told and illustrated by the masterful Paul Galdone: The Three Little Pigs, Three Billy Goats Gruff, Little Red Riding Hood, and The Gingerbread Boy. Pair this boxed set with the Folktale Classics Keepsake Collection!

FROM SARAH:

A tribute to our messy and marvelous homeschools, this picture book makes us feel seen and celebrated as we move throughout our days. Just watch out for that "crabby cafeteria lady"!

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

A must-have for all homeschooling families, this charming and funny picture book explores the special rhythms and routines of home education, inspired by award-winning author-illustrator Jonathan Bean’s own childhood.

For young Jonathan and his sisters, home and school are one of the same. Mom is their teacher, and Dad is the best substitute a kid could ask for. From math, science, and field trips, to recess, show-and-tell, and art, an average school day with this lively, loving family is both completely familiar and totally unique. This Is My Home, This Is My School draws inspiration from Jonathan Bean’s own homeschooling experiences and includes a note from the author as well as a selection of real-life family photographs.

FROM SARAH:

My all-time favorite picture book. This one is perfection in every way! Even though the audio version is only twelve minutes, it's worth the purchase! Read by Claire Danes and set to beautiful sound design. Wonderful on audio (Audible | LibroFM).

The story of little Alice, whose grandfather invites her to travel the globe, come home to the salty sea, and do something to make the world more beautiful. Listen to my special edition podcast episode about the author.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:
Barbara Cooney's story of Alice Rumphius, who longed to travel the world, live in a house by the sea, and do something to make the world more beautiful, has a timeless quality that resonates with each new generation.

FROM SARAH:

Everything Jane Yolen writes has a touch of magic to it, including this simple story about a girl and her father going “owling.” A beautiful tale to warm your winter.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Distinguished author Jane Yolen has created a gentle, poetic story that lovingly depicts the special companionship of a young child and her father as well as humankind's close relationship to the natural world.

FROM SARAH:

A book for the ages. I talked all about the making of this book on this special edition of the RAR podcast! Truly, this book is perfect in every way. Make sure you own a copy.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Another classic from Robert McCloskey! Mr. and Mrs. Mallard are searching for the perfect place to raise their family. Will they find a place to call home?

FROM SARAH:

Want to get your kids to play outside? Just read this book—don't say anything else! 😉 (Also: the illustrations by the incomparable Barbara Cooney are perfect.)

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Illustrated by Barbara Cooney (Miss Rumphius), Roxaboxen is a special place where games like playing house magically come to life.

FROM SARAH:

Filled with rhythm, rhyme and repetition, this story is perfect for early listeners and budding readers who are beginning to play with sounds. Check out RAR Podcast episode 35 for more tips on how to engage little learners in your read-alouds.

FROM PUBLISHER:

This tale of a peddler and a band of mischievous monkeys is filled with warmth, humor, and simplicity and also teaches children about problem and resolution.This classic picture book will be appreciated as a birthday, baby shower, or graduation gift! It never fails to get preschoolers chanting along and giggling.

FROM SARAH:

A 1963 Caldecott Medal-winner, The Snowy Day is simple and beautiful. Explore the city as it is blanketed in snow. Perfect for winter, of course.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

The magic and wonder of winter’s first snowfall is perfectly captured in Ezra Jack Keats’s Caldecott Medal-winning picture book. This celebrated classic has been shared by generations of readers and listeners, a must-have for every child’s bookshelf and a perfect gift for the holiday season.

FROM SARAH:

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

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

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

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

FROM SARAH:

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

FROM PUBLISHER:

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

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

FROM SARAH

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

FROM THE PUBLISHER

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

FROM SARAH:

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

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

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

FROM SARAH:

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

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

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

FROM SARAH:

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

Recommended Ages: 12+

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

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

FROM SARAH:

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

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

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

FROM SARAH:

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

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

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

FROM SARAH:

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

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

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

FROM SARAH: 

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

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

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

FROM SARAH:

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

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

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

FROM SARAH:

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

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

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

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

FROM SARAH:

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

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

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

FROM SARAH:

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

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

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

FROM SARAH:

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

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

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

FROM SARAH:

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

FROM PUBLISHER:

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

FROM SARAH:

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

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

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

FROM SARAH:

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

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

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

FROM SARAH:

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

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

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

FROM SARAH:

This collection of biographical sketches features some of the most famous mathematical geniuses in history, and would make a perfect addition to your math lessons. It's written in short, narrative snippets that read like historical fiction, making it fun and digestible for readers 8 and up.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Introduce kids to the lives of famous mathematicians like Pythagoras and Galileo. This book takes a look at the history of mathematical discoveries and the lives of great mathematicians.

FROM SARAH:

Gorgeous illustrations bring the classic myths to life. Full of rich detail and wonderful language!

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Here are the greats of ancient Greece—gods and goddesses, heroes and monsters—as freshly described in words and pictures as if they were alive today.

No other volume of Greek mythology has inspired as many young readers as this timeless classic. Both adults and children alike will find this book a treasure for years to come.

FROM SARAH:

The three tales of Elmer Elevator and a flying baby dragon together in one collection!

FROM THE PUBLISHER:
Rediscover the classic fantasy trilogy beginning with Newbery Honor winner My Father's Dragon in this 50th anniversary edition that includes three timeless tales in one, with original illustrations!

FROM SARAH:

A swashbuckling tale full of heroes and action, The Black Star of Kingston takes place a century before RAR favorite, The Green Ember.

FROM PUBLISHER:

A century before Heather and Picket’s adventures in The Green Ember, a displaced community fights for hope on the ragged edge of survival.

FROM SARAH:

May becomes abandoned 15 miles from home on the Kansas Prairie. Fans of Little House will enjoy this fast-paced story and the strong heroine. (A novel in verse.)

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

May is helping out on a neighbor's Kansas prairie homestead—just until Christmas, says Pa. She wants to contribute, but it's hard to be separated from her family by 15 long, unfamiliar miles. Then the unthinkable happens: May is abandoned. Trapped in a tiny snow-covered sod house, isolated from family and neighbors, May must prepare for the oncoming winter. While fighting to survive, May's memories of her struggles with reading at school come back to haunt her. But she's determined to find her way home again. Caroline Starr Rose's fast-paced novel, written in beautiful and riveting verse, gives readers a strong new heroine to love.

FROM SARAH:

Combine the masterful storytelling of Caroline Starr Rose and the emotional punch of a novel in verse, and you have this stunning historical fiction that’s perfect for readers who are fascinated by early colonial life. I’d recommend it for readers 9 and up, but it also makes a fantastic read-aloud for younger listeners. We are thrilled to welcome Caroline to the Waxwing family as she releases her picture book with us in 2026, Books Up the Mountain.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Alis and her parents make the long journey from England to settle the New World. But it doesn't go as planned and Alis, her parents, and the others of their small community soon find themselves at odds with the Roanoke tribe. As tensions rise between the settlers and the Native peoples, twelve-year-old Alis forms an impossible friendship with a Roanoke named Kimi. Despite language barriers, the two become as close as sisters, risking their lives for one another until Alis makes a decision that will change her life forever.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:
A truly comprehensive collection that is the ideal way of introducing children to the joys of reading poetry.

FROM SARAH:

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

FROM PUBLISHER:

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

FROM SARAH:

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

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

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

FROM SARAH:

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

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

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

FROM SARAH:

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

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

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

FROM SARAH:

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

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

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

FROM SARAH:

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

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

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

FROM SARAH:

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

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

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

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

FROM SARAH:

Irresistibly interactive. Littles LOVE this one.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

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

FROM SARAH:

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

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

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

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

FROM SARAH:

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

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

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

FROM SARAH:

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

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

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

FROM SARAH:

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

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

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

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

FROM SARAH:

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

FROM THE PUBLISHER: 

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