Kindle Deals for March 26, 2020
Today's Best Book Deals for Your Homeschool
(Prices are correct as of the time of writing, but y'all know sales move fast — check before you click the buy button! These are Amazon links — read more about how we use affiliate links to help support some of the costs of the HSL blog here.)
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El Deafo, by CeCe Bell, $1.99. Being different isn't always easy. When Cece Bell loses her hearing, she has to learn how to navigate the world in all new ways, including wearing a cutting-edge 1970s hearing aid and figuring out how to make friends when she can't always hear what people are saying—or when she hears too much. Cece is a likable, friendly character, and her story—part memoir, part graphic novel—is one that almost every middle schooler can relate to. This is one of the graphic novels designed specifically for the Kindle, so you don't have to worry about weird formatting issues.
Princess Academy, by Shannon Hale, $1.99. You may be starting to get the impression that I love Shannon Hale, and you would be right. Princess Academy is the first in a middle grade series about a land where a rich urban royal class benefits from the poorly paid labor of all the surrounding towns. When it is decided that the Prince’s wife should come from Miri’s village, all the teen girls are rounded up and sent to a school where they will be taught the ways of court. Booklist says, “Hale nicely interweaves feminist sensibilities in this quest-for-a-prince-charming, historical-fantasy tale. Strong suspense and plot drive the action as the girls outwit would-be kidnappers and explore the boundaries of leadership, competition, and friendship.” If you are looking for books with strong heroines who overcome difficulties to make a difference in their world, this is the book for you.
Cathedral, by David Macaulay, $1.99. The gorgeous and detailed classic from my childhood has been colorized! Macaulay walks readers through every step of medieval construction, from cutting down the wood to carving the finest details. Kids will be fascinated by how many types of skilled workers it takes to create a beautiful building.
Ladies of Liberty: The Women Who Shaped Our Nation, by Cokie Roberts, $1.99. This charming and detailed picture book by Cokie Roberts tells the stories of American women who have made an impact on our history. In its pages, you’ll learn about Louisa Adams, Isabella Graham, Sacagawea, Elizabeth Seton, and more.
Dumplin’, by Julie Murphy, $0.99. This feel-good story of a plus-sized teen entering a beauty pageant will win over girls and moms alike. The Netflix adaptation is also pretty entertaining.
The Rest of Us Just Live Here, by Patrick Ness, $0.99. I bought this one two years ago after reading Amy’s review. Here’s what swayed me: “What is life like for the teenagers who aren’t the ones destined to battle evil forces? Ness’s protagonists have bigger problems than preventing the end of the world or falling in love with vampires—problems like getting a date for prom and passing biology.”
STILL ON SALE
The Girl Who Never Made Mistakes, by Mark Pett and Gary Rubinstein, $0.99. This funny picture book is for perfectionists and those who love them. Beatrice never ever makes mistakes, but what will happen when something inevitably goes wrong? My little perfectionist found this one interesting and helpful when she was younger.
Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, by Ian Fleming, $1.00. Did you know that Ian Fleming wrote more than the James Bond novels? He is also responsible for this charming and strange book about a magical car and the family who loves it. This is a high adventure children’s classic. It’s also SO different from the movie that you can have an interesting discussion with your kids about what it means to adapt a novel to film.
Where the Mountain Meets the Moon, by Grace Lin, $1.99. This book is a pleasure to read aloud. From our World Mythology and Folk Tales reading guide: Grace Lin’s quest novel takes its magic from the Chinese myths and folk tales she grew up with, and the result is a delightful fantasy steeped in Chinese mythic tradition.
Code Name Verity, by Elizabeth Wein, $2.99. Captured by Germans after her plane crashes in World War II France, a British agent slowly weaves her confession to her captors to put off a grisly execution. This is the best kind of historical fiction—it pulls you right in to the complicated landscape of 1943 politics, and through flashbacks, brings World War II England to life. With its bonus beautiful friendship story and pleasantly feminist voice, this is a great book to have on your World War II reading list. Be warned: It's definitely a tear-jerker. (Shelved as a young adult/high school novel.)
The Art of Instruction: Vintage Educational Charts from the 19th and 20th Centuries, by Katrien Van der Schueren, $2.99. Long before Wikipedia, the walls of classrooms were decorated with beautifully painted instructional posters. This collection of more than 100 posters opens a portal to the past. Use these images to spark discussion, inspire exploration, and maybe encourage your own little illustrators.
The Candymakers, by Wendy Mass, $1.99. Move over, Willy Wonka! When a candy company hosts a competition to design the next amazing sweet, four kids are brought together for the final stage of the contest. Will they be enemies or friends? My daughter loved so many things about this book: the shifting narrators, the truly surprising twists, and the incredibly mouth-watering details of the candy making process. This book is a sweet reading treat for middle grade readers, and there is more than enough detail and excitement to keep adults interested.
Mill by David Macaulay, $1.99. Macaulay is famous for creating amazing books about buildings, and Mill is no exception. Readers will follow the construction and operation of a 19th century textile mill. This is a great way to begin exploring technological and societal changes in industrial work. Macaulay’s black and white illustrations are incredibly detailed and highlight both the technological and human stories of progress.
Roller Girl, by Victoria Jamieson, $2.99. Do you have a Raina Telgemeier fan in your household? This graphic novel would be a great next read! Astrid and Nicole have always done everything together, but when Astrid gets into roller derby, the girls have to negotiate a new phase in their friendship. Astrid spends her summer learning new skills, cautiously meeting new friends, and discovering her brave, strong self.
DK Readers: Sea Otters, by DK, $2.99. Another easy reader, this time with some of the cutest pictures I have ever seen. Get to know more about sea otters and their habits! This level 1 books is suitable for beginning readers who are fluent in all the basic phonics.
The Mysterious Benedict Society, by Trenton Lee Stewart, $2.99. “Are you a gifted child looking for Special Opportunities?” Yes, please! This strange advertisement gets the action rolling. Four clever children are selected. Their mission: to infiltrate a shady Institute where an evil man is working to take over the world. The book is filled with action, puzzles, and a strong message about individuality. If you enjoy the book, we have a whole gift guide inspired by the Mysterious Benedicts.
I Will Always Write Back, by Martin Ganda and Caitlin Alifirenka, $2.99. A beautiful, lifelong friendship can start with a single note. When Caitlin’s American class started a pen pal assignment, she had no idea whether her letter would ever be read. Martin was one of only 10 kids in his Zimbabwean class to get one of the pen pal letters. As the two started to exchange, they discovered how different their lives were, but how much they still had in common. Their correspondence continued for years until they were able to meet in person, after Caitlin’s family helped Martin come to America to attend college. This is an amazing, inspiring story.
The Cecelia and Kate Novels: Sorcery & Cecelia, The Grand Tour, and The Mislaid Magician, by Patricia C. Wrede and Caroline Stevermer, $3.99. Another box set! These YA/adult books tick so many of my boxes: epistolary, set in Regency-era England where magic is real, madcap, and funny. The series starts when Kate and Cecelia are teens preparing to enter society and continues through their adulthood. Snap this series up if you love wizarding tales but are also a fan of Austen.
History vs Women: The Lives that They Don’t Want You to Know, by Anita Sarkeesian and Ebony Adams, $2.99. Looking for nonfiction written for teens? How about this collection of stories about historical women who changed the society around them? The writing is bold and really brings these women to life. The biographies are grouped by theme: rebels, scholars, villains, artists, and amazons. Readers are likely to discover several women they have never heard about before, as these are women the history books do not cover often.
The Firefly Letters: A Suffragette’s Journey to Cuba, by Margarita Engle, $2.99. I will admit that I had never heard of Fredrika Bremer before I discovered this book. I had missed such an interesting story! Here’s the publisher’s summary: “The freedom to roam is something that women and girls in Cuba do not have. Yet when Fredrika Bremer visits from Sweden in 1851 to learn about the people of this magical island, she is accompanied by Cecilia, a young slave who longs for her lost home in Africa. Soon Elena, the wealthy daughter of the house, sneaks out to join them. As the three women explore the lush countryside, they form a bond that breaks the barriers of language and culture. In this quietly powerful new book, award-winning poet Margarita Engle paints a portrait of early women's rights pioneer Fredrika Bremer and the journey to Cuba that transformed her life.” This novel in verse is also Pura Belpre Honor Book.
DK Readers: Amazing Buildings, by Kate Hayden, $2.99. None of us are doing any traveling, but that doesn’t mean we can’t be learning about the world! DK’s vast library of photos is put to great use in this book, with illustrations of everything from the pyramids to Sydney Opera House. Kids will appreciate details on how these buildings were designed and built. Perfect for the curious early reader.
Yum-Yum Bento Box: Fresh Recipes for Adorable Lunches, by Crystal Watanabe and Maki Ogawa, $2.99. Crazy cute bentos are definitely not part of my everyday repertoire, but they might be a fun way to make boring quarantine food more palatable to kids. Get the family involved in turning food into adorable creatures that they can then eat. There are lots of detailed photo instructions to help with the creation process, and ingredient substitutions should be relatively easy to find.
Dune, by Frank Herbert, $1.99. Start another transporting series. We featured this one in our Hero’s Journey book and movie list: Frank Herbert takes a subversive approach to the hero’s journey, following its patterns but raising questions about the nature and value of heroes. “The bottom line of the Dune trilogy is: beware of heroes. Much better rely on your own judgment, and your own mistakes,” said Herbert.
With the Fire on High, by Elizabeth Acevedo, $2.99. I’m so excited to see this novel in verse on sale. The lyrical verse takes on some serious social issues. Here’s the plot description: “Ever since she got pregnant freshman year, Emoni Santiago’s life has been about making the tough decisions—doing what has to be done for her daughter and her abuela. The one place she can let all that go is in the kitchen, where she adds a little something magical to everything she cooks, turning her food into straight-up goodness. Even though she dreams of working as a chef after she graduates, Emoni knows that it’s not worth her time to pursue the impossible. Yet despite the rules she thinks she has to play by, once Emoni starts cooking, her only choice is to let her talent break free.”
Nick and Tesla’s High-Voltage Danger Lab, by Bob Pflugfelder, $2.99. Your junior scientist and engineers will love these high-action tales that also contain instructions for making the same mechanical creations as Nick and Tesla. Many of the projects can be accomplished with things you probably already have around the house.
Playing with Anxiety: Casey’s Guide for Teens and Kids, by Reid Wilson and Lynn Lyons, $0.99. This guide to dealing with anxiety is written from the perspective of a (fictional) 14 year old. The half-narrative, half-guidebook format is engaging and doesn’t talk down to kids. If someone in your family is feeling particularly worried these days, this book may help.
A History of Video Games in 64 Objects, by the World Video Game Hall of Fame, $1.99. I have a soft spot for the “history through a collection of objects” books. I like the sense of grounding that comes from focusing on particular artifacts. This collection covers major milestones in gaming, starting with the pinball machine and going through 2016. This is a great find for gamers young and old.
Love the Home You Have: Simple Ways to Embrace Your Style, Get Organized, and Delight in Where You Are, by Melissa Michaels, $2.99. Many people around me are using this extra time to work on projects in their homes. If you are feeling like you need to make some changes, let Melissa Michaels guide you! She brings fresh ideas for your home, but also focuses on finding contentment with what you have.
Code 7: Cracking the Code for an Epic Life, by Bryan R. Johnson, $3.99. This collection of interweaving stories from upper elementary readers will have kids trying to discover the code. Each of the stories focuses on one kid trying to lead an epic life. The plots are mostly realistic with some “tall-tale” twists. The publisher recommends these stories as a way to “encourage discussion about kindness, perseverance, integrity, friendship, identity, self-reliance, and self-worth.” I think many of us could use that right now.
Rosalind Franklin: The Dark Lady of DNA, by Brenda Maddox, $2.99. Rosalind Franklin worked closely with Watson and Crick to uncover the structure of DNA, but her efforts were largely written out of history. Brenda Maddox tells her story, from teenager girl determined to become a scientist to her untimely death in her 30s.
The Art of the Wasted Day, by Patricia Hampl, $4.99. I’ll admit, I’ve had this book on my shelf for months, but I haven’t found the time to read it. Perhaps this month will be the time to settle in for her musings on the importance of leisure and time to dream. From the publisher: “The Art of the Wasted Day is a picaresque travelogue of leisure written from a lifelong enchantment with solitude. Patricia Hampl visits the homes of historic exemplars of ease who made repose a goal, even an art form. She begins with two celebrated eighteenth-century Irish ladies who ran off to live a life of "retirement" in rural Wales. Her search then leads to Moravia to consider the monk-geneticist, Gregor Mendel, and finally to Bordeaux for Michel Montaigne--the hero of this book--who retreated from court life to sit in his chateau tower and write about whatever passed through his mind, thus inventing the personal essay. Hampl's own life winds through these pilgrimages, from childhood days lazing under a neighbor's beechnut tree, to a fascination with monastic life, and then to love--and the loss of that love which forms this book's silver thread of inquiry. Finally, a remembered journey down the Mississippi near home in an old cabin cruiser with her husband turns out, after all her international quests, to be the great adventure of her life.”
Over and Under the Pond, by Kate Messner, $1.99. This simple story of a parent and child exploring a pond from a boat is paired with gorgeous illustrations. Kids will enjoy looking up from the bottom of the pond! A section at the end offers more details about each of the animals mentioned in the story. Read this one, then go find a local pond to explore (while keeping your distance from others, of course).
DK Eyewitness Readers: Animal Hospital, by Judith Walker-Hodge, $2.99. I’ve seen requests for kids’ nonfiction, so I’ll be offering more books along these lines. In this easy reader book, kids can go behind the scenes of a veterinary hospital to see how vets help sick and injured animals. The story is framed around two children who find an injured duck. FYI: We’ve found that DK reader levels are somewhat more challenging than other leveled readers.
The Color of Magic: A Novel of Discworld, by Terry Pratchett, $1.99. Are you ready to be transported to another realm and lose yourself in an immense series? Welcome to Discworld, the home of a wild and funny series spanning 40 books. The series parodies many of the common fantasy tropes, and is heavy on the puns. Try out this first book in the series, knowing that if you enjoy it, your reading life will be set for weeks.
A Nest is Noisy, by Dianna Hutts Aston, $3.99. This beautifully illustrated book is a study of the different forms of nests found in nature. Engaging and poetic language introduce young readers to hummingbird, snake, prairie dog, and many other nests. This book is full of facts and extremely detailed illustrations, but maintains a cozy, warm feel.
The Social Sex: A History of Female Friendship, by Marilyn Yalom and Theresa Donovan Brown, $0.99. Friendships are looking a little bit different right now, with few people able to meet up in person. Why not take the time to read about the history of societal thinking about friendship? In contemporary society, we tend to take for granted that women are social and forge meaningful friendships, but historically, men often believed women were incapable of deep connections. Learn more in this fascinating social history!
My Encyclopedia of Very Important Animals, by DK, $1.99. This is a fun resource for young animal fans! Kids will love the whimsical illustrations and colorful photographs. There are sections on animal classifications and behavior, then detailed pages on specific animals. Short sentences and fun facts make this a good choice for early readers (or a read aloud).
Nocturna, by Maya Montayne, $1.99. I’m intrigued by the YA fantasy that is set in a Latinx kingdom. I’m looking forward to exploring this new world. Read this one now so that you are ready for the sequel to be release in September! From the publisher: To Finn Voy, magic is two things: a knife to hold under the chin of anyone who crosses her…and a disguise she shrugs on as easily as others pull on cloaks. As a talented faceshifter, it’s been years since Finn has seen her own face, and that’s exactly how she likes it. But when Finn gets caught by a powerful mobster, she’s forced into an impossible mission: steal a legendary treasure from Castallan’s royal palace or be stripped of her magic forever. After the murder of his older brother, Prince Alfehr is first in line for the Castallan throne. But Alfie can’t help but feel that he will never live up to his brother’s legacy. Riddled with grief, Alfie is obsessed with finding a way to bring his brother back, even if it means dabbling in forbidden magic. But when Finn and Alfie’s fates collide, they accidentally unlock a terrible, ancient power—which, if not contained, will devour the world. And with Castallan’s fate in their hands, Alfie and Finn must race to vanquish what they have unleashed, even if it means facing the deepest darkness in their pasts.
Mrs. Sherlock Holmes: The True Story of New York City’s Greatest Female Detective and the 1917 Missing Girl Case that Captivated a Nation, by Brad Ricca, $2.99. Women’s History Month has been slightly overtaken by current events, but we have some great books to share about remarkable women. Mrs. Sherlock Holmes is non-fiction but reads like an exciting crime novel. It tells the story of Grace Humiston, a detective and lawyer who was instrumental in solving several high profile cases. The story is dark, twisty, and true.
Brooding YA Hero: Becoming a Main Character (Almost) as Awesome a Me, by Carrie DiRisio, $1.99. Looking for a laugh, or maybe the start of a fun project? This extremely tongue-in-cheek guide to being a YA character may inspire your teens to pen their own novels! It’s hard to describe, so I’ll let the back flap speak for itself: “Join Broody McHottiepants as he attempts to pen Brooding YA Hero: Becoming a Main Character (Almost) as Awesome as Me, a "self-help" guide (with activities--you always need activities) that lovingly pokes fun at the YA tropes that we roll our eyes at, but secretly love. As his nefarious ex, Blondie DeMeani, attempts to thwart him at every turn, Broody overcomes to detail, among other topics, how to choose your genre, how to keep your love interest engaged (while maintaining lead character status), his secret formula for guaranteed love triangle success, and how to make sure you secure that sequel, all while keeping his hair perfectly coiffed and never breaking a sweat.”
Bygone Badass Broads: 52 Forgotten Women who Changed the World, by Mackenzi Lee, $2.99. My daughter and I love collections of brief biographies; they help us to discover new people we want to learn more about. This collection is a lot of fun. The illustrations are bold and beautiful, and the bios are conversational and engaging. The women featured span millennia and the entire globe, including a few names that were brand new to me. Teens may recognize Lee from her popular YA novel, The Gentleman’s Guide to Vice and Virtue.
Sign Painters, by Faythe Levine and Sam Macon, $2.99. At one point, nearly every business had a hand-painted sign. Though these signs are becoming less common, there is still a vital artistic community dedicated to creating unique displays. Levine and Macon have interviewed many sign makers to create a modern history of the artform. Lovely color illustrations may inspire you to start creating your own painted signs!
She Explores: Stories of Life-Changing Adventures on the Road and in the Wild, by Gail Straub, $2.99. This book is a little bit of everything. You’ll find gorgeous photos from remarkable places, stories from 40 women who struck out to discover the world, and practical advice on planning, packing, safety, and more. I found it to be a pleasant and inspiring diversion.
Greystone Secrets: The Strangers, by Margaret Peterson Haddix, $1.99. I haven’t read this middle-grade novel yet, but it seems perfect for the long, dark evenings of winter. The publisher’s description is thrilling and chilling: “The Greystone kids thought they knew. Chess has always been the protector over his younger siblings, Emma loves math, and Finn does what Finn does best—acting silly and being adored. They’ve been a happy family, just the three of them and their mom. But everything changes when reports of three kidnapped children reach the Greystone kids, and they’re shocked by the startling similarities between themselves and these complete strangers. The other kids share their same first and middle names. They’re the same ages. They even have identical birthdays. Who, exactly, are these strangers? Before Chess, Emma, and Finn can question their mom about it, she takes off on a sudden work trip and leaves them in the care of Ms. Morales and her daughter, Natalie. But puzzling clues left behind lead to complex codes, hidden rooms, and a dangerous secret that will turn their world upside down.
The Hazel Wood, by Melissa Albert, $2.99. Amy reviewed this one a few years ago! “This is one of the slow, spooky books that you don’t realize is freaking you out until you’re trying to fall asleep and all you can think about is Twice-Killed Katherine. It’s genuinely eerie, first as the fairytale folk stalk Alice and her mom through the city and then as Alice ventures into her grandmother’s mysterious estate, where the darkest story of all is waiting for her. Great for teens who love the gory original Grimm stories or who are in the mood for a spooky, atmospheric book tinged with horror.”
Kindness and Wonder: Why Mister Rogers Matters Now More Than Ever, by Gavin Edwards, $3.99. Several people I know have been turning to old Mister Rogers episodes to help their children deal with anxiety in recent days. Do you need some Kindness and Wonder in your life? From the publisher: “For more than thirty years, Fred Rogers was a beloved fixture in American homes. Warm and welcoming, he spoke directly to children—and their parents—about the marvels of the world, the things that worried them, and above all, the importance of being themselves. Dressed in his cardigan and sneakers, Fred Rogers offered a wholesome message of generosity and love that changed the landscape of television and shaped a generation of children. Kindness and Wonder pays tribute to this cultural icon: the unique, gentle man who embodied the best of what we could be. Looking back at the history of the show and the creative visionary behind it, pop culture aficionado Gavin Edwards reminds us of the indelible lessons and insights that Mister Rogers conveyed—what it means to be a good person, to be open-hearted, to be thoughtful, to be curious, to be compassionate—and why they matter. Beautifully crafted, infused with Mister Rogers’ gentle spirit, and featuring dozens of interviews with people whose lives were touched by Fred Rogers—ranging from Rita Moreno to NFL Hall of Famer Lynn Swann—Kindness and Wonder is a love letter to this unforgettable cultural hero and role model, and the beautiful neighborhood he created.”
Crash Test Girl: An Unlikely Experiment in Using the Scientific Method to Answer Life’s Toughest Questions, by Kari Byron, $1.99. This book is a fun hybrid memoir/science/self-help book from one of the Mythbusters presenters. Byron tells the complicated story of how she came to be on the show as a series of hypotheses (e.g., if you follow the traditional path, you’ll eventually end up in the job of your dreams) and experiments (e.g., try anything, do everything, say “yes” even when you aren’t sure). This is an interesting read for anyone who is curious about Mythbusters or about finding their own unique path through life. Note: While the book is generally appropriate for tweens/teens, there are sections about relationships and alcohol that parents might want to preview.
Why Knot? How to Tie More than Sixty Ingenious, Useful, Beautiful, Lifesaving, and Secure Knots, by Philippe Petit, $2.99. Petit is a man whose life depends on good knots — he is famous for crossing between the towers of the World Trade Center on a wire. This book goes into great detail about how to tie various knots, why they work, and other knot-related trivia. Petit includes many diagrams to illustrate necessary steps. Why not use some of your extra time at home to learn fun new skills?
Bad Dad, by David Walliams, $1.99. David Walliams is a hugely popular British children’s author that many reviewers compare to Roald Dahl. When Gilbert gets in trouble with a local crime boss, his young son Frank must come to his rescue. This is a fast-paced, funny novel that will keep middle-grade readers entertained. The illustrations only enhance the fun, Dahl-like feel.
Big Questions from Little People: And Simple Answers from Great Minds, by Gemma Elwin Harris, $1.99. As many activities around the country are being canceled or postponed, you may find yourself spending more time at home with your little people. If they are full of questions, you may find this book helpful. Big names like Gordon Ramsay, Bear Grylls, and Mary Roach answer those big questions of childhoold — Why do we have music? Why do cakes taste so nice? The answers are thoughtful and detailed. You may find a few questions that even adults have been wondering about.
Adventurous Women: Eight True Stories About Women Who Made a Difference, by Penny Colman, $2.99. We own several books that are collections of two-page biographies. I love using these as opportunities to discover people who might not have been on our radar. What I like about Adventurous Women, though, is the depth. Each chapter is approximately 20 pages about an ambitious and, yes, adventurous woman. There are a few household names here (e.g. Mary McLeod Bethune), but most of the women are not as well known. Tweens and teens will enjoy learning about an arctic explorer, an enterprising reporter, and more.
Into the Planet: My Life as a Cave Diver, by Jill Heinerth, $2.99. I know you aren’t supposed to just a book by it’s cover, but take a look at this cover! How can you not be compelled to find out what is happening in gorgeous subterranean lakes? From the publisher: “Jill Heinerth—the first person in history to dive deep into an Antarctic iceberg and leader of a team that discovered the ancient watery remains of Mayan civilizations—has descended farther into the inner depths of our planet than any other woman. She takes us into the harrowing split-second decisions that determine whether a diver makes it back to safety, the prejudices that prevent women from pursuing careers underwater, and her endeavor to recover a fallen friend’s body from the confines of a cave. But there’s beauty beyond the danger of diving, and while Heinerth swims beneath our feet in the lifeblood of our planet, she works with biologists discovering new species, physicists tracking climate change, and hydrogeologists examining our finite freshwater reserves.”
The Witch of Blackbird Pond, by Elizabeth George Speare, $2.99. Round out your reading list with this Newberry winner about a fierce 16 year old who must find her way in a new land — 1687 Connecticut. Kit grew up in Barbados but now must adjust to living with unfamiliar relatives and under Puritan social norms. Kit uniqueness and nonconformity lead to the suspicion that she is a witch, and she soon finds herself in great danger. This is an exciting adjunct to an early American history unit, or a great book to read just for fun.
Visionary Women: How Rachel Carson, Jane Jacobs, Jane Goodall, and Alice Waters Changed Our World, by Andrea Barnet, $1.99. This award-winning book introduces readers to four women who shaped the modern environmental movement in very different ways. Carson and Goodall focused on the relationships between humans and creatures of earth and sea, while Jacobs and Waters shaped urban planning and food ways. What they all share is a willingness to reconsider the status quo and fight for what matters.
The Radical Element: 12 Stories of Daredevils, Debutantes, and Other Dauntless Girls, edited by Jessica Spotswood, $1.99. This fun collection of short stories from YA authors is united by a shared theme: girls standing up for themselves throughout American history. Readers will enjoy traveling to different eras and meeting characters from many ethnicities, sexual orientations, and socioeconomic statuses.
Character Design From the Ground Up: Make Your Sketches Come to Life, by Kevin Crossley, $3.99. Are you or your child fascinated by the characters in comic books, movies, or video games? Would you like to know how they are developed, and how you can create fully fledged characters of your own? Illustrator Kevin Crossley has created a comprehensive guide to the production process, from first sketch to 3D rendering to final product. This is not a “how to draw” book; it assumes you already have ideas and a style of your own. Rather, it walks you through how to refine your work, add detail, and create something that looks professional. The many illustrations in varied drawing styles will provide creative inspiration.
Galaxy Girls: 50 Amazing Stories of Women in Space, by Libby Jackson, $1.99. This collection of short biographies will introduce you to the accomplishments of women who looked up with wonder and determination. From the publisher: “From Ada Lovelace in the nineteenth century to the “colored computers” behind the Apollo missions, from the astronauts breaking records on the International Space Station to the scientific pioneers blazing the way to Mars, Galaxy Girls goes boldly where few books have gone before, celebrating this band of heroic sisters and their remarkable and often little known scientific achievements. Written by Libby Jackson, a leading British expert in human space flight, and illustrated with striking artwork from the students of London College of Communication, Galaxy Girls will fire the imaginations of trailblazers of all ages.”
Signs of Resistance: A Visual History of Protest in America, by Bonnie Siegler, $1.99. Protest and dissent are the constant companions of civilization. Bonnie Siegler has created a fascinating history of protest from America’s earliest days to modern times. This book is a look at both the issues that have motivated protest and the techniques that protesters have used to express themselves. There are more than 200 images, each with a short description. This book isn’t a comprehensive history, but it is a great visual resource and a jumping off point for more in-depth explorations.
Because I was a Girl: True Stories for Girls of All Ages, edited by Melissa De La Cruz, $2.99. This collection of stories from girls and women who have faced obstacles because of their gender. The stories are arranged chronologically, making it easy to see how societal expectations and opportunities have changed over time. You’ll meet interesting women from many different fields — astronauts, writers, military members, religious professionals, and more.
Grammar Girl Presents The Ultimate Writing Guide for Students, by Mignon Fogarty, $3.99. Grammar Girl was one of the first podcasts I ever listened to, and I’ve enjoyed Mignon Fogarty for more than a decade. This book is a compilation of her helpful grammar advice written for middle- and high-school students. She covers everything from parts of speech to frequently misused words to guidelines for letter writing.
Invisible Women: Data Bias in a World Designed for Men, by Caroline Criado Perez, $2.99. Without a doubt, this is the most important book I read in 2019. Even in the 21st Century, most researchers do not collect data on women, or they average the data of women and men. This means that car safety features, medications, and even urban planning fail to adequately meet women’s needs. This book is fascinating and, frankly, infuriating. This is a must read.
Pocket Companion to Narnia: A Magical Guide to the World of C.S. Lewis, by Paul F. Ford, $4.99. The world of Narnia spans many generations and dozens of characters. This small volume offers an alphabetical listing of places, people, events, and more. The handy reference will help the both Narnia-lovers and newbies to keep all the details straight.
Front Desk, by Kelly Yang, $4.99. My daughter and I loved this book so much. When 10-year-old Mia’s family takes a job managing a motel, they quickly discover that the owner expects lots of work for very little pay. Determined to take some of the burden off of her parents, Mia takes on front desk duty when she comes home from school. Soon, Mia is keeping lots of secrets — the needy immigrants that her parents are hiding in unused hotel rooms, the reasons she can’t hang out with friends after school, and even her secret dream of becoming a writer. Grab this one now! The sequel is coming out later this year.
Well-Read Black Girl, by Glory Edim, $4.99. This anthology looks awesome. From the publisher: “Remember that moment when you first encountered a character who seemed to be written just for you? That feeling of belonging remains with readers the rest of their lives—but not everyone regularly sees themselves in the pages of a book. In this timely anthology, Glory Edim brings together original essays by some of our best black women writers to shine a light on how important it is that we all—regardless of gender, race, religion, or ability—have the opportunity to find ourselves in literature.”
The Periodic Table: A Field Guide to the Elements, by Paul Parsons and Gail Dixon, $3.99. This vibrant and careful guide to all the elements in the periodic table will intrigue budding chemists and anyone who wants to understand how things work. Lots of vivid illustrations of the elements in their various forms round out the dense but accessible text.
Science in Seconds: 200 Key Concepts Explained in an Instant, by Hazel Muir, $1.99. This illustrated guide to scientific concepts explains everything from thermodynamics to the Doppler effect. It’s an excellent resource for when you need a refresher or a way to answer a homework question.
Binti, by Nnedi Okorafor, $1.99. This sci-fi novella introduces an exciting new universe. Binti, a Himba tribeswoman, is the first of her people to gain admission to a galactic university. Against her family’s wishes, she leaves her desert home to pursue higher education. A disaster on her transport ship has profound impacts on Binti’s future. This book is beautifully written and a whirlwind of activity. It’s short, but it packs a punch.
How to Draw Fantasy Art and RPG Maps: Step by Step Cartography for Gamers and Fans, by Jared Blando, $4.99. I’m a big fan of meeting kids where they are to sneak in some meaningful learning. In creating a fantasy world and building an accurate map, budding cartographers will have a crash course in geography. The book offers good starting points for discussion of geographic features, cities and transportation, political history, and heraldry. The excellent and varied illustrations break the complex process into manageable steps.
Enlightenment Now, by Steven Pinker, $1.99. This is a great deal on a massive, informative book, so snap it up! It is very easy to get stuck in thinking about all of the problems and disasters facing the modern world. Pinker uses meticulous sociological research to show that human conditions have been steadily improving since the Enlightenment. Far from resting on laurels, Pinker encourages readers to continue embracing reason and science to defend the world against the ever-encroaching tribalism, demagoguery, and fatalism that also seem to be a persistent part of human nature.
A Crazy-Much Love, by Joy Jordan-Lake, $1.99. This sweet picture book tells the story of an international adoption and many milestones that follow in a young girl’s family.
George, by Alex Gino, $3.99. George may look like a boy, but she knows she is really a girl. Determined to win the role of Charlotte in her school play of Charlotte’s Web, she sets out to make sure everyone else can see her the way she sees herself. Books that address the experiences of transgender tweens are rare, and this one does it well, so snag it for your middle-grade reader.
Challenge Accepted! 253 Steps to Becoming an Anti-It Girl, by Celeste Barber, $1.99. You may have seen Australian actor and comedian Celeste Barber’s hilarious Instagram photos attempting to copy ridiculous celebrity poses. If you’re interested in her take on childbirth, what it’s like to share so much of her life on the internet, body image, and more, this book is a breezy, laugh-out-loud read. Note: If you are squeamish about crude language, this may not be the book for you.
The Blue Sword, by Robin McKinley, $1.99. From our Adventure and Suspense reading list: Orphaned girl Harry Crewe is living a perfectly ordinary life — until the day she is kidnapped by the king of the Hillfolk to fulfill a destiny she never imagined. Is Harry really a true warrior who can wield the legendary blue sword? And even if she is, will she believe in herself enough to seize her fate?
Waiting, by Kevin Henkes, $1.99. This sweet picture book captures the emotional essence of childhood. Five toys sit by a window, each waiting for something different to happen. Simple, but resonant text and warm illustrations make this a delightful read.
The Stuff of Thought: Language as a Window into Human Nature, by Steven Pinker, $4.99. This book is fascinating and long. I bought it when I couldn’t finish my library copy in time (and I wanted to be able to refer to it again). Word nerds and anthropology fans will love this genre mashup. Find out what the words people use for swearing, humor, and metaphor say about us as human beings.
Inside Out and Back Again, by Thanhha Lai, $1.99. From our big immigration stories reading list (winter 2017): “When Hà’s family flees Vietnam to escape the war there, she finds it difficult to adjust to a very different kind of life in Alabama. Told in spare, simple verse, this book packs an emotional wallop and allows kids to slip inside the first person experience of being a stranger in a strange land.”