Kindle Deals for June 24, 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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A Snicker of Magic, by Natalie Lloyd, $3.99. My daughter loves this book! Here’s what she says: “A shy girl who’s been traveling around her whole life moves to a town that used to have magic. She learns that her ancestors were cursed and becomes determined to break the curse. This is a really heartwarming book, and I recommend it to people who like The Magic Half.”
Lumberjanes: Unicorn Power! by Mariko Tamaki, $2.99. The girls from the Lumberjanes graphic novels are back in middle-grade chapter book form! Another brief review from my 10 year old: “In the first Lumberjanes chapter book, the Lumberjanes, bunkmates at a camp for adventurous girls, set out on a hike that goes quite differently than planned. First, a member of their group spots a unicorn. As usual with these spunky and compassionate girls, fun and daring adventures follow.”
Give Yourself Goosebumps: Tick Tock, You’re Dead, by R.L. Stine. A scary Goosebumps novel where you get to choose how the story turns out? Sign me up for this perfect campfire read!
The Hippo at the End of the Hall, by Helen Cooper, $0.99. This animal-heavy story takes a magical turn. Here’s the publisher’s description: “When Ben receives a mysterious invitation to an odd museum, he’s swept into a peculiar world of forgotten secrets and wild magic in this illustrated novel. The invitation to the Gee Museum was delivered by bees. It wasn’t addressed to anyone, but Ben knows that it was meant for him. Why else would the images on the postcard have stirred up memories of his father, who was lost at sea long ago? Ben makes his way to the old dilapidated building to find a host of curious talking animals awaiting his arrival. They are certain he is the only one who can save the museum. But Ben and the animals in the Gee collection will have to outwit a devious rival museum owner and a greedy land developer. With a bit of luck, some strange magic, and a little help from his mom, Ben might succeed in ensuring the future of the museum — and finding the answers about his father that he’s been searching for his whole life. Helen Cooper’s first novel brims with mystery and hope, and her lovely illustrations bring the wonders of the Gee Museum to life.”
STILL ON SALE
Click, Clack, Moo: Cows That Type, by Doreen Cronin, $3.99. When the cows on Farmer Brown’s farm discover that they can use a typewriter, they begin leaving him notes with their feedback and demands. This is a great book for introducing young kids to both onomatopoeia and the concept of striking for improved conditions. Plus, it’s just really funny.
The Typewriter, by Bill Thomson, $3.99. Kids either love or hate Bill Thomson’s low- or no-text stories. His imaginative illustrations allow the reader to make up the words as they go along. In this tale, kids discover a mysterious typewriter that allows them bring things into being by typing. They begin a magical adventure along a beach.
Flora and Ulysses, by Kate DiCamillo, $2.99. When Flora rescues an errant squirrel from her neighbor’s super-powered new vacuum cleaner, the squirrel emerges with superpowers, launching the duo on a series of adventures. Ulysses uses a typewriter to communicate with Flora, often in the form of oddly-spelled poetry. According to School Library Journal: “There are plenty of action sequences, but the novel primarily dwells in the realm of sensitive, hopeful, and quietly philosophical literature.”
Typewriter Manual: An Explanation of Parts and How to Clean Everything! by Ryan Smits, $0.99. Typewriters can often be found at a thrift store for about $20. If you pick one up and need information about how to use or repair it, this is a good starting place. The information is brief, and the writing style is not sophisticated, but the price is right.
I Stink! by Kate and Jim McMullen, $0.99. This garbage truck is proud of all the things it can do! Kids will love the brash bragging about all the cool things a garbage truck does to keep towns clean. There’s also a fun alphabetical list of types of trash. This is a great book to read aloud.
Mighty, Mighty Construction Site, by Sherri Duskey Rinker, $1.99. Goodnight, Goodnight Construction Site showed all the work equipment settling in for the night, this follow-up book brings us all the things they can do! Tom Lichtenheld’s anthropomorphic illustrations give each machine a personality. With teamwork, the machines are able to do great things.
Monster Trucks! by Susan E. Goodman, $4.99. Step into the loud, thrilling world of monster trucks with this early reader. The level 3 books are broken into topical sections containing lots of detail. Kids will learn about how the trucks are built, what kind of tricks they can perform, and the history of monster truck racing.
DKFindOut Engineering, by DK Publishing, $1.99. After you’ve read some fun picture books about machinery, pick up this nonfiction book for some fascinating details. Elementary-age kids will be able to read this one on their own to learn about simple machines, roller coasters, engineering for space, cars, robots, and many more topics. As always, the DK books are filled with photo illustrations, break out boxes, and bright colors.
Bedtime Inspirational Stories 2: 50 Black Leaders who Made History, by L.A. Amber, $2.99. This is more than a great collection of short biographies. Amber’s writing really lives up to the “inspirational” in the title. Each biography is paired with a life lesson (e.g., “what you think about yourself matters") and a short discussion of how the famous person put that lesson to work. The stories are honest about the adversities and inequalities each person faced in their rise to greatness. The list of celebrated people includes artists, musicians, inventors, politicians, and many other people.
My Hands Sing the Blues: Romare Bearden’s Childhood Journey, by Jeanne Walker Harvey, $1.99. This lyrical picture book tells the story of Romare Bearden, an artist reknowned for his painting and collage work. As Bearden creates one of his collages, he reflects on the moments and memories in his life that have inspired the images. The effect makes for a uniquely compelling biography.
Under Your Feet, by the Jackie Stroud, $1.99. What’s going on under your feet? This brightly illustrated and richly detailed book from DK digs into the natural world below ground. Kids will learn about ants, microbes, fungi, burrowing animals, and more. This is a solid reference for curious elementary students.
Underground: A Human History of the Worlds Beneath Our Feet, by Will Hunt, $4.99. For thousands of years, humans have been venturing underground. Will Hunt has long been fascinated with what is happening beneath our feet, and he has collected a series of experiences that range from scientific to anthropological. With careful, beautiful prose, Hunt encourages the reader to consider the unseen mysteries underground.
Blind Descent: The Quest to Discover the Deepest Place on Earth, by James M. Tabor, $4.99. Gear up, explorers! It’s time for a tale of true adventure. Here’s the publisher’s description: “In 2004, two great scientist-explorers attempted to find the bottom of the world. American Bill Stone took on the vast, deadly Cheve Cave in southern Mexico. Ukrainian Alexander Klimchouk targeted Krubera, a freezing nightmare of a supercave in the war-torn former Soviet republic of Georgia. Both men spent months almost two vertical miles deep, contending with thousand-foot drops, raging whitewater rivers, monstrous waterfalls, mile-long belly crawls, and the psychological horrors produced by weeks in absolute darkness, beyond all hope of rescue. Based on his unprecedented access to logs and journals as well as hours of personal interviews, James Tabor has crafted a thrilling exploration of man’s timeless urge to discover—and of two extraordinary men whose pursuit of greatness led them to the heights of triumph and the depths of tragedy. Blind Descent is an unforgettable addition to the classic literature of true-life adventure, and a testament to human survival and endurance.”
Over and Under the Snow, by Kate Messner, $4.99. I’ve talked about Kate Messner’s books before. These picture books do a lovely job of illustrating the parts of nature that are hard for us to observe. Take a break from your warm summer day to explore how many animals spend their winters.
The Lightning Thief: The Graphic Novel, by Rick Riordan, Robert Venditti, and Attila Futaki, $0.99. The story that started Rick Riordan’s impressive franchise is back in graphic novel form. Twelve-year-old Percy Jackson is shocked to discover that the gods of Greek mythology are real, still around, and mad at him because they think he has stolen Zeus’s lightning bolt.
Race to the Sun, by Rebecca Roanhorse, $1.99. Get ready for an action-packed adventure through Navajo mythology! Here’s the publisher’s description: “Lately, seventh grader Nizhoni Begay has been able to detect monsters, like that man in the fancy suit who was in the bleachers at her basketball game. Turns out he's Mr. Charles, her dad's new boss at the oil and gas company, and he's alarmingly interested in Nizhoni and her brother, Mac, their Navajo heritage, and the legend of the Hero Twins. Nizhoni knows he's a threat, but her father won't believe her. When Dad disappears the next day, leaving behind a message that says "Run!", the siblings and Nizhoni's best friend, Davery, are thrust into a rescue mission that can only be accomplished with the help of Diné Holy People, all disguised as quirky characters. Their aid will come at a price: the kids must pass a series of trials in which it seems like nature itself is out to kill them. If Nizhoni, Mac, and Davery can reach the House of the Sun, they will be outfitted with what they need to defeat the ancient monsters Mr. Charles has unleashed. But it will take more than weapons for Nizhoni to become the hero she was destined to be . . . Timeless themes such as the importance of family and respect for the land resonate in this funny, fast-paced, and exciting quest adventure set in the American Southwest.”
Aru Shah and the End of Time, by Roshani Chokshi, $1.99. My 10 year old has really enjoyed the Aru Shah series on audiobook! Amy reviewed this one when it was released: “It’s not surprising at all that is the first book in the Rick Riordan imprint — and sometimes it does feel like a badly dubbed version of the Percy Jackson series. Prickly, unlikable hero(ine) who discovers she’s actually a descendant of a god? Check. Unleashed evil ready to take over the world? Check. Plucky sidekicks who assist hero(ine) and also illuminate the value of friendship? Check. Secret mythic world hidden in plain sight? Check? Hero(ine) the only one who can put things right? Check. The Indian mythology is gorgeously done, though, and I have high hopes for this series once it finds its footing — and this first installment is definitely worth reading.”
Sal and Gabi Break the Universe, by Carlos Hernandez, $1.99. Sal and Gabi is a slight departure from the Rick Riordan Presents genre; this story has a metaphysical, sci-fi twist. Carlos loves showing off his magic tricks, but the real trick is that he can bend space and time to transport items to and from other universes. I’m handing the keyboard over to my kid for her opinion: “This book is really fun and unexpected, and it ties the unexpectedness into the more normal things in the plot. This makes it seem both realistic and fantastical.”
Germs Make Me Sick! by Melvin Berger, $0.99. Introduce young readers to the science of disease transmission and how bodies fight off germs. The book includes a useful section on practices for staying healthy and not spreading germs. It’s written at a second or third grade level, but could easily be understood by younger kids as a read aloud.
DKFindOut! Human Body, by DK Publishing, $1.99. Designed for kids ages 6-9, this colorful book covers all the major systems of the human body with detailed illustrations and interesting, occasionally gruesome facts. Definitely read this one on a tablet!
Calm: Mindfulness for Kids, by Wynne Kinder, $1.99. Especially in this time of heightened uncertainty and increased togetherness, we need to be proactive about supporting our kids’ mental health. Kinder has collected a variety of mindfulness activities to try with your family, with options that will appeal to kids who can easily sit still and those who need some kinetic activity to calm their minds. Activities are aimed at kids ages 7-9, but many would appeal to older or younger children.
The Extraordinary Education of Nicholas Benedict, by Trenton Lee Stewart, $3.99. Fans of The Mysterious Benedict Society, get ready for a prequel! Nicholas Benedict is not your typical 9 year old, he has narcolepsy and he’s a genius. When he is sent to a creepy new orphanage, he discovers a mystery that will change his life (and set the stage for the Benedict book series).
The Problim Children, by Natalie Lloyd, $1.99. When the seven Problim siblings’ house blows up, they must move into their grandfather’s ramshackle old house. There, they must face new dangers and new adventures as they deal with nosy neighbors, hidden treasure, and maybe even magic. Lloyd has the dark humor and memorable characters of Roald Dahl and Lemony Snicket.
The Incorrigible Children of Ashton Place: The Mysterious Howling, by Maryrose Wood, $3.99. If A Series of Unfortunate Events went back in time, you’d get The Incorrigible Children. The publisher’s description gets the tone of the book just right: “Found running wild in the forest of Ashton Place, the Incorrigibles are no ordinary children: Alexander, age ten or thereabouts, keeps his siblings in line with gentle nips; Cassiopeia, perhaps four or five, has a bark that is (usually) worse than her bite; and Beowulf, age somewhere-in-the-middle, is alarmingly adept at chasing squirrels. Luckily, Miss Penelope Lumley is no ordinary governess. Only fifteen years old and a recent graduate of the Swanburne Academy for Poor Bright Females, Penelope embraces the challenge of her new position. Though she is eager to instruct the children in Latin verbs and the proper use of globes, first she must help them overcome their canine tendencies. But mysteries abound at Ashton Place: Who are these three wild creatures, and how did they come to live in the vast forests of the estate? Why does Old Timothy, the coachman, lurk around every corner? Will Penelope be able to teach the Incorrigibles table manners and socially useful phrases in time for Lady Constance's holiday ball? And what on earth is a schottische?”
Lies We Tell Ourselves, by Robin Talley, $3.99. Talley looks at school desegregation with an unflinching eye. Sarah is one of the first black students to attend Jefferson High School, and every day brings new indignities and mistreatment. Linda’s family vehemently opposed integration. When the two are forced to work together, they are drawn to each other despite their differences. But how can they be together in a society that rejects interracial and same-sex relationships?
The Mermaid, The Witch, and The Sea, by Maggie Tokuda-Hall, $4.99. Swashbuckling, spies, and spells? Sign me up! This is a recent release at a great price. Here’s the publisher’s description: “Aboard the pirate ship Dove, Flora the girl takes on the identity of Florian the man to earn the respect and protection of the crew. For Flora, former starving urchin, the brutal life of a pirate is about survival: don’t trust, don’t stick out, and don’t feel. But on this voyage, Flora is drawn to the Lady Evelyn Hasegawa, who is headed to an arranged marriage she dreads. Flora doesn’t expect to be taken under Evelyn’s wing, and Evelyn doesn’t expect to find such a deep bond with the pirate Florian. Neither expects to fall in love. Soon the unlikely pair set in motion a wild escape that will free a captured mermaid (coveted for her blood) and involve the mysterious Pirate Supreme, an opportunistic witch, double agents, and the all-encompassing Sea herself.”
Darkwood, by Gabby Hutchinson Crouch, $3.99. This book from British comedy writer Gabby Hutchinson Crouch (who worked on Horrible Histories) had me hooked from the flap description, which reads like a combination of Discworld and The Princess Bride. Will it capture your interest as well? Here’s what the publisher says: “Magic is forbidden in Myrsina, along with various other abominations, such as girls doing maths. This is bad news for Gretel Mudd, who doesn’t perform magic, but does know a lot of maths. When the sinister masked Huntsmen accuse Gretel of witchcraft, she is forced to flee into the neighbouring Darkwood, where witches and monsters dwell. There, she happens upon Buttercup, a witch who can’t help turning things into gingerbread, Jack Trott, who can make plants grow at will, the White Knight with her band of dwarves and a talking spider called Trevor. These aren’t the terrifying villains she’s been warned about all her life. They’re actually quite nice. Well… most of them. With the Huntsmen on the warpath, Gretel must act fast to save both the Darkwood and her home village, while unravelling the rhetoric and lies that have demonised magical beings for far too long.”
All Out: The No-Longer-Secret Stories of Queer Teens Throughout the Ages, edited by Saundra Mitchell, $1.99. This collection of historical fiction short stories from modern authors contains stories spanning the breadth of queer identity and a variety of time periods. YA fans will recognize several prominent authors. Says the publisher: “From a retelling of Little Red Riding Hood set in war-torn 1870s Mexico featuring a transgender soldier…to two girls falling in love while mourning the death of Kurt Cobain…to forbidden love in a sixteenth-century Spanish convent…and an asexual girl discovering her identity amid the 1970s roller-disco scene, All Out tells a diverse range of stories across cultures, time periods, and identities, shedding light on an area of history often ignored or forgotten.”
It’s Not Like It’s a Secret, by Misa Sugiura, $1.99. This first-person coming-of-age novel looks at falling in love and coming out from an Asian perspective. Here’s a plot description from the publisher: “Sixteen-year-old Sana Kiyohara has too many secrets. Some are small, like how it bothers her when her friends don’t invite her to parties. Some are big, like the fact that her father may be having an affair. And then there’s the one that she can barely even admit to herself—the one about how she might have a crush on her best friend. When Sana and her family move to California, she begins to wonder if it’s finally time for some honesty, especially after she meets Jamie Ramirez. Jamie is beautiful and smart and unlike anyone Sana’s ever known. There are just a few problems: Sana's new friends don't trust Jamie's crowd; Jamie's friends clearly don't want her around anyway; and a sweet guy named Caleb seems to have more-than-friendly feelings for her. Meanwhile, her dad’s affair is becoming too obvious to ignore. Sana always figured that the hardest thing would be to tell people that she wants to date a girl, but as she quickly learns, telling the truth is easy…what comes after it, though, is a whole lot more complicated.”
High School, by Tegan and Sara Quin, $3.99. Tegan and Sara are queer music icons! This memoir of their high school years in the 1990s will intrigue existing fans and may inspire new fans to check out their music. The sisters alternate chapters, and it’s interesting to see where their experiences diverge as they address sexuality, body image, drugs, friendship, and other teen issues.
X: A Novel, by Ilyasah Shabazz and Kekla Magoon, $0.99. This historical fiction novel tells the story of Malcom X’s teenage years and the struggles that he overcome to become a leader. Appropriate for teens, but does contain some sex, drugs, and violence. Here’s the publisher’s description: “Malcolm Little’s parents have always told him that he can achieve anything, but from what he can tell, that’s a pack of lies—after all, his father’s been murdered, his mother’s been taken away, and his dreams of becoming a lawyer have gotten him laughed out of school. There’s no point in trying, he figures, and lured by the nightlife of Boston and New York, he escapes into a world of fancy suits, jazz, girls, and reefer. But Malcolm’s efforts to leave the past behind lead him into increasingly dangerous territory. Deep down, he knows that the freedom he’s found is only an illusion—and that he can’t run forever.”Hair Like Mine, by LaTashia M. Perry, $4.99. In this sweet story, a girl goes looking for people with hair just like hers, but discovers that everyone is unique. She learns to celebrate the diversity of noses, toes, skin, and hair.
Elijah of Buxton, by Christopher Paul Curtis, $4.99. This amazing middle-grade book tells a story that gets lost in most history classes. In the mid-19th century, freedom seekers created a settlement near the border in Buxton, Canada. When a man steals money that was destined to buy a family’s freedom, Elijah is determined to track down the thief. But this quest takes Elijah away from the settlement and exposes him to new dangers. This is a moving book; I had to stop reading aloud the section on welcoming new members to freedom because I couldn’t speak through the tears.
The Story of Ruby Bridges, by Robert Coles, $3.99. When Ruby Bridges was only six, she became the first Black child to integrate the New Orleans school system. Ruby had to make her way through mobs of angry people to get to her new school. Robert Coles tells her remarkable story with warm illustrations from George Ford.
The Sound that Jazz Makes, by Carole Boston Weatherford, $1.99. This lovely book in verse tells the history of jazz from its African roots to modern interpretations. Though it doesn’t provide a lot of detail, the text introduces important terms and people for further exploration. The illustrations leap off the page (sometimes literally extending into the margins) and portray a broad range of emotions.
This Book is Anti-Racist: 20 Lesson on How to Wake Up, Take Action, and Do the Work, by Tiffany Jewell, $2.99. I just bought this book for my family after seeing it recommended by many sources. Tiffany Jewell walks through the history of racism, how people have fought against it throughout history, and what we can do now to help create a just world.
Born a Crime, by Trevor Noah, $4.99. Suzanne’s got our middle schoolers reading some of this as part of their African literature section. There’s also a young reader’s edition that goes into less detail about the most violent portions of the story. From The New York Times review: “By turns alarming, sad and funny, [Trevor Noah’s] book provides a harrowing look, through the prism of Mr. Noah’s family, at life in South Africa under apartheid. . . . Born a Crime is not just an unnerving account of growing up in South Africa under apartheid, but a love letter to the author’s remarkable mother.”
A Good Kind of Trouble, by Lisa Moore Ramee, $1.99. This middle-grade novel has been compared to The Hate U Give. Shay is a 12-year-old girl who hates trouble and doesn’t want to stand out. When a tragedy moves her to stand up for what she believes in, she finds out that some things are worth a bit of trouble.
Ruby and the Booker Boys: Brand New School, Brave New Ruby, by Derrick Barnes, $3.99. Early elementary readers will love getting to know Ruby Booker. Ruby is nervous about starting a new school, especially since everyone there already knows her three older brothers. When she tries to find a way to set herself apart, she may have instead gotten herself in trouble. Kids will enjoy the banter and antics of the Booker family. Good news! This is the first in a series. Short chapters and fun illustrations will appeal to readers transitioning to chapter books.
Jaden Toussaint, The Greatest: The Quest for Screen Time, by Marti Dumas, $3.99. I haven’t read this chapter book yet, but I was so charmed by the description. Will you feel the same way? “Giant afro. Even Bigger Brain. Jaden Toussaint is a five year-old who knows it all. I mean, really knows it all. Animal Scientist. Great Debater. Master of the art of ninja dancing. There’s nothing Jaden Toussaint can’t do. The only problem is that grown-ups keep trying to convince him that, even though he’s really smart, he doesn't know EVERYTHING. The thing is…he kind of does. This time our hero must use all his super-powered brain power to convince the grown-ups that he needs more screen time. Jaden Toussaint, the Greatest is a series of chapter books that kids and parents love. Kids love the awesome brain power and ninja dance moves of a superhero as real as they are. Parents appreciate the author's humor, but they love watching their kids-- even reluctant readers-- keep turning pages. Jaden Toussaint is the new definition of cool.”
What if Everybody Thought That?, by Ellen Javernick, $1.99. This simple children’s book encourages kids to challenge their preconceptions about others. Use this book to begin a conversation about stereotypes with your young children.
I Have a Dream, by Martin Luther King, Jr, $4.99. This picture book of King’s famous speech is beautifully illustrated by Kadir Nelson. The main book text is an excerpt, but the full speech text is included at the back.
A Street Through Time: A 12,000 Year Journey Along the Same Street, illustrated by Steve Noon, $1.99. I love this history book so much. Gorgeous and detailed illustrations highlight what daily life was like in 15 time periods, from prehistory to the present (and even a little beyond). This is the perfect book for games of I Spy; the funny details will get kids interested in finding out more about the time periods. This is a wonderful resource to have on hand when you are studying (Western) history and want to know what a time period looked or felt like.
Discovery in the Cave, by Mark Dubowski, $4.99. The Step into Reading series does a great job with nonfiction topics. So many history books for kids offer only little snippets of information about many topics at once. These level 3 and 4 books provide in-depth details on a specific topic. Level 4 books balance paragraphs of text with fairly simple vocabulary and lots of illustrations. This particular book is all about the cave paintings of Lascaux. Kids will learn about how the cave was discovered and what historians and scientists have learned from the paintings.
DKfindout! World War II, by Brian Williams, $1.99. The DKfindout! book series is back again, this time with an interesting look at World War II. Kids ages 6-9 can learn age appropriate information about major battles, world leaders, military equipment, the Holocaust, code-breaking, and more. This is definitely an intro-level book, but it may just the right amount of information for young history enthusiasts.
The Year of Living Danishly: Uncovering the Secrets of the World’s Happiest Country, by Helen Russell, $0.99. I found this “fish out of water” memoir fascinating. When Russell has the opportunity to move to Denmark, she decides to spent her time exploring and attempting to understand the culture. This funny and sometimes poignant books describes the struggles of fitting into a new culture, the elements of Danish culture that make Danes the happiest people in the world, and how to incorporate elements of Danish life into your own life.
The Complete Dinosaur, by M.K. Brett-Surman, Thomas R. Holtz, and James O. Farlow, $2.99. There are two groups of people: those who see a 1,000+ page book about dinosaurs and run away screaming, and those who see the massive tome as a challenge and opportunity. This is a magnificent reference book to have on hand for any dinosaur lover. The information is dense, but organized into sections on the discovery of dinosaurs, current practice in paleontology, the classifications of dinosaurs, paleobiology, and evolution.
The Big Book of Dinosaurs, by DK, $1.99. Elementary readers will love this big, full-color look at how dinosaurs lived. I like the 3D models used for illustration; they make the creatures come to life. The Kindle version is a replica of the print edition, so be sure to check it out on a full-color device for best effect.
DK Find Out Dinosaurs, by DK, Designed for a mid-elementary audience, this book features interactive elements like quizzes. Providing a bit more detail than The Big Book of Dinosaurs, this book offers a nice dino timeline.
Magic Tree House: Dinosaurs Before Dark, by Mary Pope Osborne, $3.99. The book that started the whole Magic Tree House franchise is all about dinosaurs! When their treehouse transports Jack and Annie to the cretaceous period, they have to figure out how the magic works in order to get back home. Along the way, they observe many types of dinosaurs and survive many brushes with the dangers of the prehistoric past. This series is great for beginning readers (adults reading aloud may find it repetitive). There’s also a great nonfiction companion book with more details about the dinos the two kids encounter.
You Are My Friend: The Story of Mister Rogers and His Neighborhood, by Aimee Reid, $2.99. Today’s kids did not grow up with Mister Roger’s Neighborhood, and they missed out. This lovely biography introduces Fred Rogers and tells the story of how his ground-breaking show came to be.
Botanical Line Drawing: 200 Step-By-Step Flowers, Leaves, Cacti, Succulents, and Other Items Found in Nature, by Peggy Dean, $4.99. The summer is the perfect time to explore the natural world and create beautiful botanical art. Here’s how this book will help: “This book focuses on the extremely popular subject matter of the natural world and includes flowers, leaves, succulents, houseplants, trees, branches, mushrooms, and more. These simple line drawings will allow you to branch out and have fun with your own personal style, as well as inspire you to add flourishes to other projects.”
Nancy Clancy, Super Sleuth, $0.99. It’s Fancy Nancy, all grown up! Or at least, a little more grown up. Nancy still loves elaborate words and outlandish vocabulary, but she is turning her attention to mysteries in her community. When something goes missing at school, Nancy and her friend Bree are determined to solve the mystery. These are great first chapter books for kids who enjoyed the picture book series.
The Princess in Black and the Science Fair Scare, by Shannon Hale and Dean Hale, $3.50. Princess Magnolia is preparing to present at the science fair, but when a science experiment gone wrong releases a goo monster, The Princess in Black must step in to save the day. This whole series is adorable and adventurous, full of entertaining illustrations. If you are looking for very early chapter books that are not basic and definitely not boring, you’ll love The Princess in Black.
Shakespeare Retold, by E. Nesbit, $3.99. This beautifully illustrated book is a collection of Shakespeare’s plays adapted into short stories for young readers. This is a visually appealing way to introduce kids to the plots of Much Ado About Nothing, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Hamlet, and several others.
Superheroes: The Best of Philosophy and Pop Culture, by William Irwin, $0.99. Annoyingly, this book used to be free, but I think 99 cents is still a reasonable price. I love this Pop Culture and Philosophy series as a means of introducing philosophical concepts. Connecting Batman to utilitarianism, for example, provides a concrete example for an abstract idea. This book contains chapters from many of the books in the series, so if you enjoy it, you’ll want to check out the books centered around more specific franchises (Avengers, Spider-Man, etc.).
The Invisible Library, by Genevieve Cogman, $2.99. If you are looking for a twisty, complicated novel with a whole lot of bookish plot, this one may fit the bill. The action centers around a library that collects fiction from multiple realities (including worlds with steampunk elements, fairies, or vampires). There’s a lot to keep track of, but that also means it’s easy to get fully immersed in the complicated world.
Up in the Garden and Down in the Dirt, by Kate Messner, $1.99. This beautiful picture follows a garden through the seasons to see what is happening above and below the surface. Information sections about organic gardening techniques and about each of the creatures encountered in the story provide a great jumping off point for further learning.
The Magic and Mystery of Trees, by Jen Green, $1.99. This book is packed full of fascinating facts about trees, how they respond to the environment, communicate, defend themselves from predators, and more. Elementary students will find this book inviting and accessible, and older readers are likely to discover a few new facts as well! The gorgeous illustrations have a hand-painted feel.
Pipsie, Nature Detective: The Lunchnapper, by Rick DeDonato, $3.99. Pipsie is the most adorable nature detective around. Join her on her explorations in this delightful picture book (one in a three-book series). Here’s the publisher’s description: “Pipsie and her turtle friend, Alfred, are on the best school trip ever—a nature scavenger hunt! The team who finds “Seven Wonders of Nature” first wins. But that isn’t all Pipsie and Alfred have to find. Someone has stolen their PB&Js! The search is on for the lunch that left, and soon Pipsie and Alfred are following animal tracks and discovering deer, birds, and even some beavers. Can Pipsie make this mystery history and finish the scavenger hunt? And hopefully before lunchtime, because Alfred is one hungry turtle!”
Tech Lab: Awesome Builds for Smart Makers, by Jack Challoner, $1.99. If your kids are in need of more complex projects, this book of technology projects for middle and high school may be just the ticket. Break out the soldering iron and try your hand at making a door alarm or even an AM radio! Breakout sections describe how each invention works. This book needs to be viewed on a tablet; the detailed illustrations and electrical diagrams will not work well on a basic Kindle.
Chasing Vermeer, by Blue Balliett, $4.99. When a valuable painting disappears, Petra and Calder find themselves swept up in the conspiracy. Not sure who they can trust, the two children are determined to solve the mystery themselves. If your kid enjoys solving puzzles and cracking codes, this book is perfect. This edition comes with some cool bonus content!
Harry Potter’s Cookbook, by Roy Murray, $2.99. Looking to bring some magic to your table? Have you always wondered what knickerbocker glory or Christmas pudding taste like? This cookbook will have you making treats in no time. The recipes encompass many of the classics of British food, sweet and savory. Attractive photos of each recipe will get your mouths watering.
Good Eats: The Early Years, by Alton Brown, $2.99. Alton Brown is the king of culinary science. In addition to recipes for really good food, he takes the time to explain exactly why the processes work. If you enjoy your cooking with whimsical, nerdy fun, this is the book for you. (This version includes all of the illustrations in the original layout and is best viewed on a tablet. If you want text only, you can buy that here.)
What’s My Child Thinking? Practical Child Psychology for Modern Parents, by Eileen Kennedy-Moore and Tanith Carey, $1.99. Are you spending a lot of time at home with young kids? Do you find yourself wondering why they do the things they do? This handy guide to developmental psychology in children ages 2-7 will answer many of your questions. The book presents dozens of scenarios (“I’m not tired!” “I must have the blue cup!”), explains some of the developmental reasons for the behavior, and suggests ways to respond. It’s very easy to browse for whatever help you might need.
I Want to be a Jedi, by Simon Beecroft, $2.99. Do you have what it takes to train with Yoda and Luke? This leveled reader if full of facts about the Jedi order. All of the illustrations are movie stills, and it will be fun for your young movie fans to try to remember what is happening in each scene.
Star Wars Made Easy: A Beginner’s Guide to a Galaxy Far, Far Away, by Christian Blauvelt, $1.99. Is space opera not your thing? Do you not love Star Wars as much as other members of your family? Did you (gasp!) not see all the movies? This handy illustrated guide will fill you in on major and minor characters, plot details you might have forgotten, and more. (Don’t go looking in here for details about the last movie, as this book was published in 2017.)
Star Wars Maker Lab, by Liz Lee Heinecke and Cole Horton, $1.99. Build your own Death Star! Design an alien instrument and start your own band! Catapult things at your enemies just like the Ewoks! This book of 20 Star Wars-related crafts and science experiments will keep you busy for days. Detailed photo illustrations walk you through each step of the projects.
Choose Your Destiny: A Luke and Leia Adventure, by Cavan Scott, $3.99. I love a good choose your own adventure story. Take destiny into your own hands as you go on a mission for the Rebellion! Color illustrations make the story even more vivid.
Rump: The (Fairly) True Tale of Rumplestiltskin, by Liesl Shurtliff, $1.99. Shurtliff’s fairytale retellings are good fun. Check out the publisher’s description for this one: “In a magic kingdom where your name is your destiny, 12-year-old Rump is the butt of everyone's joke. But when he finds an old spinning wheel, his luck seems to change. Rump discovers he has a gift for spinning straw into gold. His best friend, Red Riding Hood, warns him that magic is dangerous, and she’s right. With each thread he spins, he weaves himself deeper into a curse. To break the spell, Rump must go on a perilous quest, fighting off pixies, trolls, poison apples, and a wickedly foolish queen. The odds are against him, but with courage and friendship—and a cheeky sense of humor—he just might triumph in the end.”
The Life-Changing Manga of Tidying Up, by Marie Kondo, $4.99. Do you love Marie Kondo and want to hear more from her, or did you manage to skip the tidying up craze and now want a quick introduction? This graphic novel converts Kondo’s tips into a fiction story about a woman who decides to organize her space, relationships, and work life.
Maker Lab: 28 Super Cool Projects, by Jack Challoner, $1.99. This book, created by the Smithsonian Museums, is full of exciting projects that kids can do at home with easy-to-find ingredients. The activities are grouped into four subject areas: projects you can eat, projects with things from the junk draw, projects involving water, and projects best done outside. Creative illustrations and detailed photo instructions make the projects accessible and easy to complete.
Sensory Play: Over 65 Sensory Bin Topics with Additional Picture Books, Supplementary Activities, and Snacks for a Complete Toddler Programs, by Gayle Jervis and Kristen Jervis Cacka, $4.99. Little kids love sensory play, the feeling of weird textures in their hands. This book collects dozens of ideas for bins that explore seasons, colors, letters, and holidays. With these bins and their accompanying book and snack suggestions, you can easily have a full educational day planned out.
Crepe Paper Flowers: The Beginner’s Guide to Making and Arranging Beautiful Blooms, by Lia Griffith, $2.99. This projects in this book are so lovely. The flowers range from fairly simple to intensely complex. The flowers are broken down into many steps, with several photo illustrations for each project. These are definitely projects for older kids/adults. Liven up your home with impressive and long-lasting arrangements!
Bed-Knob and Broomstick, by Mary Norton, $1.99. Meet the book that inspired a classic Disney movie! The book is pretty different from the movie, but both are worthwhile. The three Wilson children begin a life of fabulous adventures when they meet apprentice witch Miss Price, who gives them a magic bed-knob that can take them to any place and time. A chapter about cannibals has not aged well and should probably come with a discussion about generalizations and caricature.
Curious George, by H.A. Rey, $4.99. This is the story that started the enormous Curious George franchise. The story begins with George being captured in the jungle and taken to a new life in the city. From there, he has a series of wacky adventures, including a stint in jail, but the story still manages to be charming. Curious George Goes to the Hospital is also on sale.
Tacky the Penguin, by Helen Lester, $4.99. This book comes with its own audio for a readaloud experience! Set your young ones up to have someone else read to them for a change. Tacky is, well, an odd penguin. He wears odd clothes and doesn’t behave like the other penguins, who treat him with suspicion and disdain. But when the flock is in danger, Tacky’s weirdness may be just what is needed to save the day.
The Quiet Book, by Deborah Underwood, $4.99. We read this one and it’s companion, The Loud Book, so many time when my daughter was young. The winsome illustrations highlight the many different types of quiet: “pretending to be invisible quiet,” “swimming underwater quiet,” “first look at your new hairstyle quiet,” and more.
Sheep in a Jeep, by Nancy E. Shaw, $4.99. I’m a knitter, and I love a good wool-related story as much as I love a fun rhyme. This book delivers both. Sheep are good at many things, but these sheep are definitely not good drivers. Mayhem ensues.
Hottest, Coldest, Highest, Deepest, by Steve Jenkins, $2.99. The Earth is full of extremes, and Steve Jenkins is taking us on a whirlwind tour of many of them! Journey from the top of Mount Everest to the bottom of Lake Baikal, from desert to ice cap. The impressive facts are illustrated with really interesting cut paper art.
Inside Out and Back Again, by Thanhha Lai, $1.99. I could have included this one in yesterday’s “novels in verse” collection, but I decided to save it for today. It’s the story of a young refugee who flees Vietnam with her family and immigrates to Alabama. From the publisher: “Hà has only ever known Saigon: the thrills of its markets, the joy of its traditions, and the warmth of her friends close by. But now the Vietnam War has reached her home. Hà and her family are forced to flee as Saigon falls, and they board a ship headed toward hope—toward America. This moving story of one girl's year of change, dreams, grief, and healing received four starred reviews, including one from Kirkus which proclaimed it ‘enlightening, poignant, and unexpectedly funny.’ An author's note explains how and why Thanhha Lai translated her personal experiences into Hà's story. This updated digital edition also includes an interview with the author, an activity you can do with your family, tips on writing poetry, and discussion questions.”
Bee-bim Bop!, by Linda Sue Park, $4.99. My daughter loved this book so much when she was a preschooler. The gentle rhymes and repetition really enliven this story of a Korean family making a delicious dinner of bee-bim bop. If your mouth is watering by the end, you’ll be pleased to find a (very tasty) recipe at the end.
The Boxcar Children, by Gertrude Chandler Warner, $4.99. This is a classic children’s novel about siblings pulling together to survive on their own. If your child enjoys it, they will pleased to know it is the first in a long series — the kids go on to have many adventures and solve mysteries along the way. Here’s the publisher’s description: “Henry, Jessie, Violet, and Benny Alden take care of one another. They have no parents, no other family—except for a grandfather they don’t care to see—and no home . . . until the night they find the boxcar. Old, rusty, lonely, and abandoned in the woods, it’s the perfect home for four brave children on their own. Through hard work and courage, the Aldens begin to build a life full of fun and adventure. But when they’re faced with a problem they can’t solve themselves, they’re forced to look for adult help—and will find it in the most unlikely ally.”
All-of-a-Kind Family, by Sydney Taylor, $4.99. If you loved The Penderwicks, you’ll definitely enjoy one of the original big family tales. Five sisters living in early 20th century New York City have delightful adventures. This book is lovely to read near Passover — the family celebrates major Jewish holidays with extended family. Parents, take note of Mama’s clever way of getting the girls to help with the housework!
Wonderbook: The Illustrated Guide to Creating Imaginative Fiction, by Jeff VanderMeer, $2.99. VanderMeer is a master of whimsical, imaginative writing, and he is sharing his ideas for how to create your own exciting work! What makes this book really unique among serious books about writing is the elaborate illustration work throughout. VanderMeer’s advice is wonderful for writers of any genre, but the sci-fi/fantasy references make reading through a lot of fun.
The Girl Who Drank the Moon, by Kelly Barnhill, $4.27. We studied this book as part of Brave Writer’s Arrow program last year, and it’s the kind of lyrical, moving book that lingers in your mind. From Amy’s review: “I thought this little middle grades fantasy was just lovely—a worthy precursor to authors like Gaiman and LeGuin. Barnhill has a knack for telling a complex story in deceptively simple, lyrical fairy tale language, and the way she teases the individual threads of this story together—the brave boy, the magical girl, the witch’s forgotten history, the mad mother—is brilliant. The characters—minor and major—live and breathe; the world of the story feels sturdy enough to stand on its own.”
Moving Target, by Christina Diaz Gonzales, $3.99. From the description, this seems like an exciting kids’ adventure along the lines of The Da Vinci Code or Indiana Jones and The Last Crusade. Here is what caught my eye: “Cassie Arroyo, an American studying in Rome, has her world ripped apart when someone tries to kill her father, an art history professor at an Italian university. Is she their next target? Cassie sets out to uncover what is happening, only to learn that she is a member of an ancient bloodline that enables her to use the Spear of Destiny--a legendary object that can alter the future. Now running from a secret organization intent on killing those from her bloodline, Cassie must--with the help of some friends--decipher the clues that will lead her to the Spear. Christina Diaz Gonzalez has created a fast-paced thrill-ride of a book, rich with riddles and myth, that young readers will not want to put down.”
The Genius Files: Mission Unstoppable, by Dan Gutman, $0.99. My daughter and I just started listening to this exciting middle grade novel as an audiobook. The pacing and wacky antics remind me of James Patterson’s middle grade books. Coke and Pepsi McDonald think they are living a normal tween life until they are attacked by mysterious assailants. Luckily, their family is about to begin a road trip all over America. As they tour real but wacky tourist sites, they also begin to uncover the reasons they are being hunted. It’s fun, it’s far-fetched, it’s just right for tweens who need a bit of adventure right now.
That Wild Country: An Epic Journey Through the Past, Present, and Future of America’s Public Lands, by Mark Kenyon, $1.99. Adults and older kids feeling the strain of being indoors may also enjoy a little vicarious travel to some amazing places — our National Parks. Mark Kenyon combines historical fact with a travelogue of his own experiences at Yellowstone, Arches, Grand Teton, and other parks.
Bliss, by Kathryn Littlewood, $2.99. The Bliss family runs a popular bakery with a secret: many of the recipes come from the family’s magic “Cookery Booke,” an ancient and powerful resource. Rosemary Bliss is looking after her siblings while her parents go out of town, leaving strict instructions not to open the book without supervision. When mysterious Aunt Lily shows up unexpectedly, the kids don’t think it would be too problematic to make some recipes from the book for her. What could possibly go wrong? This middle grade book is warm, funny, and packed with delicious details.
DK Readers: Journey of a Humpback Whale, by Caryn Jenner, $2.99. Follow a whale named Triton as he travels across the ocean. Along the way, you’ll learn about how whales eat, breathe, communicate, and socialize with others. As always, DK Readers have simple vocabulary (with a glossary for tricky words) and gorgeous photo images.
Stink: The Incredible Shrinking Kid, by Megan McDonald, $0.99. Beginning readers love this series, a spin-off of the Judy Moody books. Stink has always been on the smaller side, so he has his sister measure him every day. When one day he comes up shorter, he starts a series of wacky adventures to make himself grow (or at least appear taller). Stink’s story is told through simple paragraphs and comic-style illustrations.
A Bear Called Paddington, by Michael Bond, $0.99. The sweet stories of this bumbling bear are a soothing distraction from current events. Kids and parents alike will enjoy following Paddington on his journey from Peru through his adoption by the Brown family. The plot differs in places from the recent Paddington movies, which could lead to interesting discussions about adaptations.
Anne Shirley Complete Book Collection, by L.M. Montgomery, $4.99. The exuberant flourishes of Anne Shirley’s language are delightful to this word nerd. I’ve enjoyed the Anne of Green Gables series, though there are still a few books that I never got around to. This is the time! All of the books are available now in one massive digital box set. Join Anne as she walks along the Lake of Shining Waters, suffers several amusing mishaps, and eventually settles into adult life with her own family.
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.
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.
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.
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.”
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.
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.
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).
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.
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.”
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.
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.
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.”