Kindle Deals for December 9, 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.)
Never miss a deal! Sign up for an email notification every time we post here.
The Book of Circles: Visualizing Spheres of Knowledge, by Manuel Lima, $3.99. This book is really, really cool. Lima focuses on images from art, history, and science to show how circles can be used to organize information. The book is picture-heavy, but there’s an introduction explaining some history and taxonomy of circle diagrams. Share this one with your kids to get them thinking about clever ways to create infographics and diagrams.
Encyclopedia of Rainbows: Our World Organized by Color, by Julia Seabrook Ream, $1.99. The concept of this book is simple: Ream collects and arranges objects in every color of the rainbow. They are fascinating to look at. The adjacent page provides labels, which would make a good starting point for deep-dive research. You’ll find arrangements of everything from eggs to beans to currency.
Cut in Half: The Hidden World Inside Everyday Objects, by Mark Warren, $2.99. The cover says it all. This is a book of objects cut in half by a high-powered waterjet cutter. If you’ve ever wondered what was going on inside a telephone or a waffle maker, this book is for you. All the parts are labeled, with brief information about what each element does. I was completely fascinated by all of the inner workings, and I suspect you will be too. (This book really needs to be viewed in color for full effect.)
The Where, the Why, and the How, by Jenny Volvoski, Matt Lamothe, and Julia Rothman, $2.99. I squealed when this book came up on Amazon’s deals page; it is just that cool. There are 75 short chapters, each a scientific question like “Where will the next pandemic come from?” or “What triggers puberty?” Each question is answered by an expert in the field and is illustrated by a different artist. Some of the illustrations are technical, others are more conceptual. If you like the art, it’s easy to find more, as each question gives contact information on the artist.
STILL ON SALE
Sister of the Chosen One, by Erin Armknecht and Colleen Oakes, $1.99. Looking for a book about sibling relationships or a book where girls kick butt? We’ve got you covered! Valora is the Chosen One, the girl destined to fight a great evil. She’s famous, revered by teens and adults alike. Her sister Grier is none of those things. Grier is quiet, average-looking, and prefers the company of books. When Grier starts to uncover her own powers, questions start to arise about who is really the Chosen One.
If We Were Us, by K.L. Walther, $1.99. This is a teen romance with a twist! Everyone assumes that Sage and Charlie will end up together. But when a new boy arrives at school, Charlie finds himself unexpectedly attracted to him. At the same time, Sage starts to spend more time with Charlie’s brother. How will the four of them balance what everyone expects with what they really want?
Terrarium: 33 Glass Gardens to Make Your Own, by Anna Bauer and Noam Levy, $1.99. As the weather gets colder, consider creating a micro garden inside! This book will lead you through all the steps to create terrariums based on ecosystems around the world.
Paint Pouring: Mastering Fluid Art, by Rick Cheadle, $1.99. Acrylic pain pouring is so much fun. After watching tons of YouTube and Instagram videos, I decided to try it with my daughter and her friends last year. Rick Cheadle will give you tons of tips for creating easy and memorable art.
Make the Bread, Buy the Butter: What You Should (and Shouldn’t!) Cook from Scratch to Save Time and Money, by Jennifer Reese, $1.99. We have the general feeling that homemade food is always going to be better than store bought, but Jennifer Reese has done the research to see which items are cost-effective and delicious to make on your own. There are recipes included that will have you making your own yogurt, chicken stock, onion rings, and more.
Pom-Poms: 25 Awesomely Fluffy Projects, by Sarah Goldschadt and Lexi Walters Wright, $2.99. Pom-poms are a lot of fun to make, and they are a project that is simple enough for fairly young kids to try. Suddenly, you have a house full of pom-poms and nothing to do with them. This book comes to the rescue with clever ideas for decorating with pom-poms. You’ll also learn how to make patterned pom-poms and how to incorporate pom-poms into other projects.
Lobizona, by Romina Garber, $2.99. Manuela is an undocumented immigrant living in Miami. When her mother is arrested by ICE and other family members are threatened, she discovers the unexpected secret of her father’s family: they are Lobizonas, or werewolves. This book has a hint of the Harry Potter coming-of-age quest, a fascinating look at Argentinian folklore, and an important take on identity and the undocumented immigrant experience.
All Boy’s Aren’t Blue: A Memoir-Manifesto, by George M. Johnson, $2.99. This essay collection/memoir is a tough but ultimately joyful read. It’s written for young adults, but content warnings for violence, homophobia, and sex are warranted. Here’s a bit of the publisher’s description: “From the memories of getting his teeth kicked out by bullies at age five, to flea marketing with his loving grandmother, to his first sexual relationships, this young-adult memoir weaves together the trials and triumphs faced by Black queer boys. Both a primer for teens eager to be allies as well as a reassuring testimony for young queer men of color, All Boys Aren't Blue covers topics such as gender identity, toxic masculinity, brotherhood, family, structural marginalization, consent, and Black joy. Johnson's emotionally frank style of writing will appeal directly to young adults.”
All-American Muslim Girl, by Nadine Jolie Courtney, $2.99. This is not the usual book about religion, culture, and fitting in. In this case, a non-practicing Muslim who has largely assimilated into secular American culture wonders how to connect to her identity in the face of Islamophobia. Here’s a summary from the publisher: “Allie Abraham has it all going for her—she’s a straight-A student, with good friends and a close-knit family, and she’s dating popular, sweet Wells Henderson. One problem: Wells’s father is Jack Henderson, America’s most famous conservative shock jock, and Allie hasn’t told Wells that her family is Muslim. It’s not like Allie’s religion is a secret. It’s just that her parents don’t practice, and raised her to keep it to herself. But as Allie witnesses Islamophobia in her small town and across the nation, she decides to embrace her faith—study, practice it, and even face misunderstanding for it. Who is Allie, if she sheds the façade of the ‘perfect’ all-American girl?”
Find Layla, by Meg Elison, $1.99. I’ve been seeing ads and reviews for this newly published book all over the place, but I haven’t had a chance to read it yet. I’m excited to get to know scientifically minded Layla, who decides to do a school project about the unique biome of her home, which is in a gruesome state of neglect. Can she withstand the scrutiny, legal proceedings, pity, and derision her revelation inspires?
Over and Under the Snow, by Kate Messner, $0.99. 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 Story of Snow: The Science of Winter’s Wonder, by Mark Cassino and Jon Nelson, $0.99. This book is just so beautiful! You’ll enjoy the combination of illustrations, scientific details, and up close photographs of actual snowflakes. The listed ages are 3-7, but I suspect many older kids and adults will learn something in these pages.
The Cool Story Behind Snow, by Joe Rao, $3.99. The Science of Fun Stuff series from Ready to Read is great for getting kids excited about reading nonfiction. This book is filled with facts about snowflakes, weather patterns, different kinds of snow, and more.
The Magic School Bus Rides Again: Glacier Adventure, by Samantha Brooke, $2.99. This early reader is based on the Netflix revival of the Magic School Bus series. The bad news? The original Miss Frizzle has moved on to other work, and her niece is now teaching the kids. The good news? A whole bunch of new adventures await! In this one, the class explores glaciers to learn how they are formed, what they can tell us about the past, and how climate change is affecting them.
Looking Within: Understanding Ourselves Through Human Imaging, by Cullen Ruff, $0.99. This doctor’s take on the role of CTs, x-rays, and other imaging tools on diagnosing diseases is really interesting. He puts together vignettes about each case that blend the clinical with the personal. The result is informative and very readable.
Accidental Medical Discoveries: How Tenacity and Pure Dumb Luck Changed the World, by Robert W. Winters, $1.99. I love to learn about the circumstances of invention. What happened to inspire someone to come up with a new innovation? What were they trying to accomplish? This book is a fun dive into 25 medical discoveries, from contact lenses to dental implants to blood pressure medication.
A Warrior of the People: How Susan La Flesche Overcame Racial and Gender Inequality to Become America’s First Indian Doctor, by Joe Starita, $1.99. I’m always so excited to learn about a remarkable woman. Susan La Flesche definitely qualifies. Here’s the publisher’s description: “On March 14, 1889, Susan La Flesche Picotte received her medical degree—becoming the first Native American doctor in U.S. history. She earned her degree thirty-one years before women could vote and thirty-five years before Indians could become citizens in their own country. By age twenty-six, this fragile but indomitable Native woman became the doctor to her tribe. Overnight, she acquired 1,244 patients scattered across 1,350 square miles of rolling countryside with few roads. Her patients often were desperately poor and desperately sick—tuberculosis, small pox, measles, influenza—families scattered miles apart, whose last hope was a young woman who spoke their language and knew their customs. This is the story of an Indian woman who effectively became the chief of an entrenched patriarchal tribe, the story of a woman who crashed through thick walls of ethnic, racial and gender prejudice, then spent the rest of her life using a unique bicultural identity to improve the lot of her people—physically, emotionally, politically, and spiritually.”
Sick Girl, by Amy Silverstein, $1.99. Amy was only 24 when her heart began to fail. Over the next several years, her life was defined by treatments, surgeries, and recovery. This is her funny, honest, sometimes scathing memoir of life with a critical illness.
Would You Rather? Thanksgiving Edition, by Riddleland, $3.99. Looking for something to talk about over the dinner table? This collection of hilarious “would you rather?” questions is the perfect conversation starter. Would you rather eat raw turkey or raw pumpkin pie? You’ll find tons of similar questions in this fun book.
May We Have Enough to Share, by Richard Van Camp, $4.99. This sweet and genuine poem about the importance of gratitude is illustrated with gorgeous photos of indigenous families at work and play.
When We Are Kind, by Monique Gray Smith, $4.99. Written by a Native American author, this book focuses on the importance of making connections. Here’s the publisher’s description: “When We Are Kind celebrates simple acts of everyday kindness and encourages children to explore how they feel when they initiate and receive acts of kindness in their lives. Celebrated author Monique Gray Smith has written many books on the topics of resilience and reconciliation and communicates an important message through carefully chosen words for readers of all ages. Beautifully illustrated by artist Nicole Neidhardt, this book encourages children to be kind to others and to themselves.”
There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Turkey, by Lucille Colandro, $3.99. The publisher’s description is really all you need to know: “The old lady is at it again, and this time she's swallowing a Turkey . . . she's always been quirky! You won't believe why this old lady swallowed a turkey, a ball, a hat, a balloon, a boat, some wheels, and a horn of plenty! Read this book and find out why!”
Duck for Turkey Day, by Jacqueline Jules, $2.99. Tuyet is getting ready for Thanksgiving, but she’s feeling worried and awkward. Her family doesn’t have turkey on Thanksgiving, and she thinks the other kids will make fun of her for being different. She’s pleasantly surprised to discover that families actually have a wide variety of food traditions at Thanksgiving.
Turkey Trouble, by Wendi Silvano, $0.99. Turkey is in danger of being eaten. How can he survive Thanksgiving? Maybe if he finds just the right disguise, the humans won’t notice him.
How to Catch a Turkey, by Adam Wallace, $4.49. There’s a turkey on the loose in this funny rhyming book. How will the kids track it down? (Don’t worry, being caught does not mean death.)
A Plump and Perky Turkey, by Teresa Bateman, $3.99. This looks like a lot of fun. Here’s the publisher’s description: “Turkeys around Squawk Valley just don't jump into pots anymore -- they are way too smart for that. So the townspeople hatch a clever plan. They host a turkey-themed arts and crafts fair and lure a vain bird into town by advertising for an artist's model. Peter the Turkey, proud of his well-stuffed form, takes the bait but doesn't fall for the trap.”
I am Thankful: A Thanksgiving Book for Kids, by Sheri Wall, $3.99. I love the multicultural illustrations in this sweet rhyming book. Meet three different families and see how each celebrates the holiday with their own traditions.
The Night Before Thanksgiving, by Natasha Wing, $4.99. Fans of Highlights for Children or Cricket magazines will recognize Natasha Wing’s sweet illustration style. Join the family as they get ready for the big day, with food prep, family visitors, special TV shows, and more.
Matilda, by Roald Dahl, $2.99. This is by far my favorite Roald Dahl book. As a smart, bookish kid, Matilda was my hero. She was able to use her extraordinary intelligence and unusual abilities to craft a better life for herself. There’s Dahl’s classic wackiness, a lot of heart, and an empowering message.
Choose to Reuse, by Lisa Bullard, $4.99. Tyler and Trina want to do more to help the environment, so they decide to look for ways to reduce their waste by reusing items in their house. Simple text and bright illustrations encourage kids to look for their own ways to use resources wisely.
Secret Lives of the First Ladies, Cormac O’Brien, $2.99. The First Ladies are an interesting group, each of them far more than just the wife of a president. Today we have a fun little book about the First Ladies. This short book gives interesting facts about these famous (and sometimes forgotten) women, from Martha Washington to Melania Trump.
To the Top: Climbing the World’s Highest Mountain, by Sydelle Kramer, $4.99. Get ready for one heck of a hike! This heavily illustrated chapter book details Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzig Norgay’s perilous but successful attempt to climb Mount Everest.
Hike, by Pete Oswald, $0.99. This mostly wordless picture book follows a father and child on a gorgeous trek out of the city and out into nature. Have your kids make up text to go along with the lovely imagery.
Steam Train, Dream Train, by Sherri Duskey Rinker, $0.99. All aboard the Dream Train! This bedtime story is the perfect balance of wacky action and soothing repetition. In the dream world, the train is staffed by animals — giraffes, kangaroos, monkey, and more — who load each car with unusual items. Tom Lichtenheld’s drawings are perfect as always.
The Colossus of Roads, by Christina Uss, $1.99. The punny title piqued my interest, but the description made me add this one to my library hold list. Will it do the same for you? “Rick Rusek's stomach has a lot to say. It's got opinions on tasty foods, not-so-tasty foods, and driving in traffic-jammed Los Angeles makes it roil, boil, gurgle, and howl. It's doing the best it can. It never meant to earn its owner the nickname Carsick Rick or make him change schools for fifth grade. And Rick's stomach isn't the only one dealing with terrible traffic. His family's catering service, Smotch, is teetering on the verge of ruin after a rash of late deliveries and missed appointments. Fortunately, Rick has the solution. Unfortunately, no one wants to listen to a kid. Absolutely certain that he could fix the constant, endless traffic snarls, Rick hatches a plan. But he'll need help from his unicorn-loving Girl Scout neighbor, a famous street artist, and the best driver in L.A. Together they'll take on the stream of stalled cars--and a secret conspiracy or two, too. It's going to be tough, but Rick won't give up. If he can successfully move the 330,000 slow-moving cars standing in the way of his family's future, maybe everyone will see that he's not Carsick Rick. He's one of the seven wonders of Los Angeles. He's the Colossus of Roads.”
Higher: 100 Years of Boeing, by Russ Banham, $3.99. Boeing started as a small company making float planes and has grown to become one of the leading manufacturers of modern aircraft. This book, a detailed history of the company, also traces major developments in aviation technology. Dozens of color illustrations will thrill history or transportation fans.
Montessori Parent Coronavirus Survival Guide, by Trillium Montessori, $4.99. Whether you began this year with kids in school or you were already homeschooling, Covid has impacted that way all of us are approaching learning. This book, featuring essays from 10 Montessori educations, offers useful advice for homeschoolers of every age. You’ll learn about managing sibling conflict, ways to keep interest, useful supplies to have on hand, and more.
Cars: Rushing! Honking! Zooming! by Patricia Hubbell, $2.49. Get ready for some onomatopoeias and action verbs! This book is packed full of interesting language about different types of cars and what they can do. Hubbell’s similar book about trains is also on sale.
The Ghost Army of World War II: How One Top-Secret Unit Deceived the Enemy with Inflatable Tanks, Sound Effects, and Other Audacious Fakery, by Rick Beyer and Elizabeth Sayles, $2.99. I am not usually much of a military history fan, but this story is so crazy that I find it fascinating. The US Army created a division of artists and other creatives designed to confuse the enemy by moving decoy tanks and other equipment to strategic locations.
The Wall, by Eve Bunting, $4.99. I remember watching the Reading Rainbow episode about this book when I was much younger. It made quite an impression. A boy and his father travel to the Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial to look for a family member’s name on the wall. The story is somber but gentle.
Hero Mom, by Melinda Hardin, $3.99. This inclusive and engaging picture book shows military women in many different roles: pilots, medics, construction supervisors, and more. x
Bad Kitty for President, by Nick Bruel, $4.96. I really enjoy Bad Kitty. She’s a wild, cantankerous character who does all the terrible things we sometimes dream about. In this heavily illustrated chapter book, Bad Kitty decides to run for president of the Neighborhood Cat Coalition. The story is filled with hallmark Bad Kitty mayhem and laughs, but it also manages to sneak in a lot of details about the real electoral process.
How To: Absurd Scientific Advice for Common Real-World Problems, by Randall Monroe, $4.99. If you love humor, science, or XKCD, this one is for you. Honestly, the publisher does such a good job with the description that I don’t need to write another one (except to say that I love it): “For any task you might want to do, there's a right way, a wrong way, and a way so monumentally complex, excessive, and inadvisable that no one would ever try it. How To is a guide to the third kind of approach. It's full of highly impractical advice for everything from landing a plane to digging a hole. Bestselling author and cartoonist Randall Munroe explains how to predict the weather by analyzing the pixels of your Facebook photos. He teaches you how to tell if you're a baby boomer or a 90's kid by measuring the radioactivity of your teeth. He offers tips for taking a selfie with a telescope, crossing a river by boiling it, and powering your house by destroying the fabric of space-time. And if you want to get rid of the book once you're done with it, he walks you through your options for proper disposal, including dissolving it in the ocean, converting it to a vapor, using tectonic plates to subduct it into the Earth's mantle, or launching it into the Sun.”
Vintage Hairstyles: Simple Steps for Retro Hair with a Modern Twist, by Emma Sundh and Sarah Wing, $1.99. I’m a huge fan of period television, especially Miss Fisher and Frankie Drake. I’ve always marveled at their hairstyles, which I had no idea how to recreate. This book walks the reader through styling tips for retro hair, makeup, and fashion from the 1910s to the 1960s. Grab the book, put on a little old-fashioned television, and style yourself or your kids to fit the part! Who says dressing up has to stop after Halloween?
You Wouldn’t Want to Be Guy Fawkes: A Plot You’d Rather Not Know About, by Fiona Macdonald, $5.99. This is priced slightly higher than my normal deal cap, but it’s one of few readily available children’s books describing Britain’s Gunpowder Plot. While few people in the US are aware of the 1605 failed terror attempt, the day is marked with celebrations and bonfires each year in the UK. This book explains Guy Fawkes’s role in an attempt to blow up the Parliament, his (gruesome) punishment, and how his name has become synonymous with traitor.
The Ultimate Guide to Mushrooms: How to Identify and Gather Over 200 Species Throughout North America and Europe, by Guillaume Eyssartier and Julien Norwood, $1.99. Perhaps getting out of the house for a while would be good for your mood! You know what would make it even better? A foraging trip where you come home with things you can eat for dinner! This detailed guide identifies both edible and toxic mushrooms commonly found in North America. Once you’ve gathered some safe ones, refer to the 40 recipes for what to do with them. Yum!
The Titanic: Lost… and Found, by Judy Donnelly, $4.99. This early reader was one of my daughter’s favorite books for several years. The story of the Titanic’s sinking and rediscovery is told in short paragraphs with excellent, dramatic illustrations.
What is the President’s Job? by Allison Singer, $2.99. DK is back with an easy reader guide to presidents for early elementary readers. Kids will find out how a person becomes president, where the president lives, what tasks a president does, and more. Photos and sidebars provide information about noteworthy presidents of the past.
P is for President, by Wendy Cheyette Lewison, $3.99. Despite the title, this is not an alphabet book. Lewison walks kids through all of what it means to be president in this charmingly illustrated book. Here’s the publisher’s description: “Being President of the United States is a big job —he biggest job in all of America! Follow the president as he or she campaigns, runs, moves into the White House, and works to fix problems. Learn about historically significant presidents along the way, and see what it takes to be president. Do you have what it takes to run the U.S.?”
On the Playground: Our First Talk About Prejudice, by Jillian Roberts, $4.99. This book is a good conversation starter about the importance of respecting differences. Photos and illustrations of a diverse array of children at play reinforce the idea that what makes each child unique is important. Here’s the publisher’s description: “On the Playground: Our First Talk About Prejudice focuses on introducing children to the complex topic of prejudice. Crafted around a narrative between a grade-school-aged child and an adult, this inquiry-focused book will help children shape their understanding of diversity so they are better prepared to understand, and question, prejudice witnessed around them in their day-to-day lives and in the media. Dr. Jillian Roberts discusses types of discrimination children notice, what prejudice means, why it's not okay, how to stand up against it and how kids can spread a message of inclusion and acceptance in the world around them.”
It’s Halloween, Little Monster, by Helen Ketteman, $1.99. Little Monster is going trick or treating for the very first time. He is a little afraid of all the costumes, until his dad assures him that it’s really just normal monsters like himself underneath the funny outfits. Kids will enjoy this fun subversion of a classic Halloween theme.
Hungry Plants, by Mary Batten, $4.99. There’s something more than a little unsettling about carnivorous plants. This level 4 reader is packed full of details about Venus fly traps, sun dews, pitcher plants, and other plants. Readers who can handle paragraphs will find the detailed illustrations and helpful pronunciation guides useful.
Spooky and Spookier: Four American Ghost Stories, by Lori Haskins Houran, $4.99. Need some quick stories to read around a candle or campfire this weekend? You can get your elementary readers in on the performance with these chilling tales for beginning readers. The illustrated stories come from Cape Cod, Virginia, Colorado, and California!
Toil and Trouble: 15 Tales of Women and Witchcraft, edited by Jessica Spotswood and Tess Sharpe, $4.49. This collection of witchy stories from YA authors is sure to contain something that intrigues you. Here’s the publisher’s description: “History is filled with stories of women accused of witchcraft, of fearsome girls with arcane knowledge. Toil & Trouble features fifteen stories of girls embracing their power, reclaiming their destinies and using their magic to create, to curse, to cure—and to kill. A young witch uses social media to connect with her astrology clients—and with a NASA-loving girl as cute as she is skeptical. A priestess of death investigates a ritualized murder. A bruja who cures lovesickness might need the remedy herself when she falls in love with an altar boy. A theater production is turned upside down by a visiting churel. In Reconstruction-era Texas, a water witch uses her magic to survive the soldiers who have invaded her desert oasis. And in the near future, a group of girls accused of witchcraft must find their collective power in order to destroy their captors.”
Grammar Girl’s 101 Misused Words You’ll Never Confuse Again, by Mignon Fogarty, $2.99. Mignon Fogarty is great at boiling down grammar rules into chunks that are easy to remember. In this short book, she goes over the difference between affect and effect, prostate and prostrate, and many other potentially embarrassing pairs. Spell check and autocorrect won’t help you fix these errors.
Dent’s Modern Tribes: The Secret Languages of Britain, by Susie Dent, $3.99. Anglophiles, delight! This book about very specific language communities is a real treat. Here’s the publisher’s description: “Did you know that . . . a soldier's biggest social blunder is called jack brew - making yourself a cuppa without making one for anyone else? That twitchers have an expression for a bird that can't be identified - LBJ (the letters stand for Little Brown Job)? Or that builders call plastering the ceiling doing Lionel Richie's dancefloor? Susie Dent does. Ever wondered why football managers all speak the same way, what a cabbie calls the Houses of Parliament, or how ticket inspectors discreetly request back-up? We are surrounded by hundreds of tribes, each speaking their own distinct slanguage of colourful words, jokes and phrases, honed through years of conversations on the battlefield, in A&E, backstage, or at ten-thousand feet in the air. Susie Dent has spent years interviewing hundreds of professionals, hobbyists and enthusiasts, and the result is an idiosyncratic phrasebook like no other. From the Freemason's handshake to the publican's banter, Dent's Modern Tribes takes us on a whirlwind tour of Britain, decoding its secret languages and, in the process, finds out what really makes us all tick.”
The Grapes of Math: Mind-Stretching Math Riddles, by Greg Tang. These quick, rhyming riddles will get kids thinking about counting, grouping numbers, and multiplication. The bright pictures help keep kids engaged.
If You Can’t Bear Hug, Air Hug, by Katie Sedmak, $4.99. A winter of quarantines and distancing is looming ahead. This sweet picture book is full of ideas about how we can still connect to others while staying safe. The rhyming text and cute animals make a hard subject more palatable.
Bears: Amazing Pictures and Fun Facts on Animals in Nature, by Kay de Silva, $2.99. Follow up your bear picture books with this short nonfiction book all about bears. Sections include habitat, behavior, hibernation, and more, followed by brief descriptions of many major bear species. The many photo illustrations will be best viewed on a color device.
Who Lives Here? Polar Animals, by Deborah Hodge, $3.99. Learn all about polar bears and other cold-loving creatures in this beautifully illustrated picture book. Side bars offer many details about the adaptations that allow creatures to safely live near the poles.
The Berenstain Bears’ Dinosaur Dig, by Jan and Mike Berenstain, $0.99. Brother and Sister Bear visit a real paleontological dig! What kind of bones will they see? Their favorite scientist, Actual Factual Bear, meets them to explain and provide details about different dinosaurs and the process of digging for fossils.
Sudden Flash Youth: 65 Short-Short Stories, edited by Christine Perkins-Hazuka, Tom Hazuka, and Mark Budman, $4.74. Sometimes you can fit a lot of punch into a tiny package. All the stories in this book are only a few pages long, great for a quick literary discussion. Here’s the publisher’s description: “In these stories of no more than 1000 words, well-known and emerging American authors spotlight crucial moments of change during coming-of-age. Their young protagonists face matters of great consequence, such as the death of a parent, unwanted pregnancy, and bullying, as well as lighter, if perplexing circumstances: how to hold a prom when being home-schooled; what to do when the babysitter suddenly sees the Rapture. The stories are of this moment--a girl who falls in love and then is pressured to lose her virginity in a cyberspace world--and they also remember the past: the Nixon era, the Vietnam War, slavery. Here is a glimpse into the way we live now from the point of view of those who will determine the future. Among the contributors are Steve Almond, Peter Bacho, Richard Bausch, Gayle Brandeis, Richard Brautigan, Ron Carlson, Kelly Cherry, Dave Eggers, Pia Z. Ehrhardt, Jim Heynen, Victor Lavalle, Meg Kearney, Naomi Shihab Nye, Maryann O'Hara, Sonia Pilcer, Pamela Painter, Bruce Holland Rogers, Robert Shapard, and Alice Walker.”
At the Old Haunted House, by Helen Ketteman, $0.99. Get ready for a fun remake of the classic song “Over in the Meadow.” This spooky twist on a counting song will be perfect for your Halloween math lessons. Count up the monsters, cats, goblins, witches and other creatures. There are lots of classic horror characters, but don’t worry — they are all having a good time and aren’t very scary. m
A Home for Leo, by Vin Vogel, $0.99. This charming story looks at the intertwined worlds of humans and other animals. Here’s the publisher’s description: “Leo grew up in the sea. He has a family of sea lions he loves. He’s happy, but he has always known he was different. Then Leo’s suddenly reunited with his human parents, and he finds he loves them too. But he still feels like a fish out of water. Being from two worlds and having two families isn’t so easy. Leo has a lot to figure out… Splashed with humor and grounded in heart, this brightly illustrated story explores ideas of family, home, and belonging in a way that’s as relatable as it is unique.”
Inside-Outside Dinosaurs, by Roxie Munro, $0.99. Not a lot of words in this one. If you have a younger kid fascinated by dinosaurs, Munro’s illustrations of how fossil skeletons may translate into their ancient environment will be highly appealing. Fact lists and suggestions for further reading round out this interesting resource.
How to Catch a Dinosaur, by Adam Wallace, $1.99. Check out this fun, rhyming picture book! When a kid decides he wants to prove dinosaurs were real by capturing one and bringing it to the science fair, he and his friends start working on elaborate plans for lures and traps. While the subject matter is wacky, this book offers and excellent glimpse at STEM skills at work.
Fossils for Kids: A Junior Scientist’s Guide to Dinosaur Bones, Ancient Animals, and Prehistoric Life on Earth, by Ashley Hall, $4.99. If your upper elementary student is hoping to learn more about what it’s really like to be a paleontologist, snag them this book! While describing ancient creatures, how fossils are formed, and how to identify fossils, paleontologist Ashley Hall offers lots of information on how scientists to their work.
The Dog that Dug for Dinosaurs, by Shirley Raye Redmond, $4.99. Get ready for a true story about a very clever dog! This Ready to Read book is written for early readers who can handle short paragraphs. Vivid color illustrations make it an enjoyable read. Here’s the publisher’s description: “There once was a little dog named Tray. He lived in England with his owner, Mary Ann Anning. Besides Mary Ann, Tray loved one other thing: He loved to dig for dinosaur bones. Together he and Mary Ann found small bones, big bones, and even entire skeletons! People came from all around the world to see the bones they found. This is the honestly true story of Tray, the dog that dug for dinosaurs.”
The Economics of Star Trek: The Proto-Post-Scarcity Economy, by Rick Webb, $4.99. Rick Webb made a splash a few years ago with a long-form article about the economics of Star Trek. This book presents an expanded version of that essay along with discussion of Universal Basic Income, cryptocurrency, and other economic issues in terms of the Star Trek universe.
DK Smithsonian Natural History Mammals Carnivores: The Definitive Visual Guide, by DK Publishing, $4.99. Want to know more about meat eaters? This book brings DK’s classic photo-rich style to dozens of mammals — bears, seals, even skunks!
What is an Election?, by Caryn Jenner, $2.99. This leveled reader is a great introduction to basic concepts in the democratic process. It’s not America-specific; there’s a section on elections around the world. DK’s levels tend to be a bit more advanced that other easy readers. This one is suitable for kids who can read short paragraphs.
The Trail of Tears, by Joseph Bruchac, $4.99. This early chapter book does not shy away from the realities of The Trail of Tears. The author, a member of the Abenaki tribe, describes Chief John Ross leading the Cherokee people 1,200 miles to new territory Oklahoma. Hardship and injustices are described in detail appropriate for elementary readers. Don’t discount this book for older readers; the level 4 and 5 books from Step into Reading are great for concise and engaging reading on a narrow topic.
You Hold Me Up, by Monique Gray Smith and Danielle Daniel, $4.99. This sweet picture book describes the ways people look out for each other (e.g., kindness and sharing). The illustrations feature Native people young and old. You’ll find this book a great conversation starter for a discussion about empathy and community spirit.
Why Indigenous Literatures Matter, by Daniel Heath Justice, $4.99. Are you looking to learn more about Indigenous authors? This book, written by a scholar for a broader audience, is a great place to start. Here’s the publisher’s description: “In considering the connections between literature and lived experience, this book contemplates four key questions at the heart of Indigenous kinship traditions: How do we learn to be human? How do we become good relatives? How do we become good ancestors? How do we learn to live together? Blending personal narrative and broader historical and cultural analysis with close readings of key creative and critical texts, Justice argues that Indigenous writers engage with these questions in part to challenge settler-colonial policies and practices that have targeted Indigenous connections to land, history, family, and self. More importantly, Indigenous writers imaginatively engage the many ways that communities and individuals have sought to nurture these relationships and project them into the future. This provocative volume challenges readers to critically consider and rethink their assumptions about Indigenous literature, history, and politics while never forgetting the emotional connections of our shared humanity and the power of story to effect personal and social change. Written with a generalist reader firmly in mind, but addressing issues of interest to specialists in the field, this book welcomes new audiences to Indigenous literary studies while offering more seasoned readers a renewed appreciation for these transformative literary traditions.”
Hearts Unbroken, by Cynthia Leitich Smith, $0.99. High school is complicated for everyone, even more so in this YA novel about a community in racial and cultural conflict. Here’s the publisher’s description: “When Louise Wolfe’s first real boyfriend mocks and disrespects Native people in front of her, she breaks things off and dumps him over e-mail. It’s her senior year, anyway, and she’d rather spend her time with her family and friends and working on the school newspaper. The editors pair her up with Joey Kairouz, the ambitious new photojournalist, and in no time the paper’s staff find themselves with a major story to cover: the school musical director’s inclusive approach to casting The Wizard of Oz has been provoking backlash in their mostly white, middle-class Kansas town. From the newly formed Parents Against Revisionist Theater to anonymous threats, long-held prejudices are being laid bare and hostilities are spreading against teachers, parents, and students — especially the cast members at the center of the controversy, including Lou’s little brother, who’s playing the Tin Man. As tensions mount at school, so does a romance between Lou and Joey — but as she’s learned, ‘dating while Native’ can be difficult. In trying to protect her own heart, will Lou break Joey’s?”
Three Faces of Me, by R.L. Stine, $0.99. No one beats R.L. Stine for a kid-appropriate intro to the horror genre. Here’s the publisher’s description of this eerie tale: “When Ira Fishman wins a prize in the machine outside a candy store, he’s disappointed it’s not the squirt gun he had his eye on. The little black plastic box looks like a camera, but when Ira presses the green button on top, nothing happens. After dinner that night, Ira can’t believe what he sees in his room: a boy with the same clothes—and face—as Ira! He tries to get this second Ira to leave, but it’s no use. Deciding to have a little fun, Ira makes the boy go to school in his place—but it’s a disaster. The new Ira isn’t good at math like the real Ira, and he’s horrible at softball. Worst of all, he plays with the girls during recess! Ira’s clone is ruining his rep—fast. And when a third Ira shows up, Ira number one has to find a way to make the others disappear for good before his whole world is turned upside down. But how do you get rid of yourself?”
Turkey Trick of Treat, by Wendi Silvano, $0.99. The wacky turkey from Turkey Trouble is back, this time to celebrate Halloween! He wants candy, but the farmer will only give it to kids in costumes. Can he and the other barnyard animals trick the farmer into giving them treats?
Halloween Hustle, by Charlotte Gunnufson, $0.99. Kids will love the spooky-cute illustrations and the fun rhyming text. Skeleton is on his way to a party, and he can’t help but dance. But he has a problem — he keeps tripping and falling apart. Can he keep it together?
How to Build a Haunted House, by Frank Tupta, $1.99. In this rhyming story, classic monsters are are working together to make a spooky haunted house. The twist? It’s for vampire family in need!
The Magic Half, by Annie Barrows, $4.79. My daughter loved this series when she was in elementary school. When Miri’s family moves into a new house, she is thrilled with her interesting new room in the attic. Things get a little strange, and more interesting, when she discovers that her room is somehow connected to 1935 and a girl in need of help. Miri has to learn the secrets of this time travel to rescue Molly.
Stepping Stones: The Time Machine, by H.G. Wells and Les Martin, $3.99. The Stepping Stones series adapts classic literature to an early chapter book level. This adaptation of the H.G. Wells classic is heavy on the action and includes engaging illustrations. This is a great introduction to one of the foundational texts of science fiction.
Apples, Apples, Apples, by Nancy Elizabeth Wallace, $0.99. The bunny family is heading to the orchard to pick some fresh apples! They meet up with Farmer Miller, who explains the different varieties of apples and how they grow. When they have gathered all they need, they head home to make fresh applesauce (recipe included!). Wallace’s unique cut paper illustrations are very sweet.
The Seasons of Arnold’s Apple Tree, by Gail Gibbons, $4.99. Arnold has a favorite apple tree. He spends time in it throughout the year, picking fruit, smelling blossoms, feeding the birds, and basking in its shade. In simple language, Gibbons walks readers through a year in the life of a tree. Don’t miss the recipe for apple pie and the description of how a cider press works!
How to Make an Apple Pie and See the World, by Marjorie Priceman, $4.99. From our readalouds with recipes list: “As Carl Sagan once said, if you want to make an apple pie from scratch, first you have to create the universe. In this playful picture book, you don’t have to create the world but you do have to travel it, journeying around the globe to collect far-flung ingredients for the perfect apple pie.”
Apples and How They Grow, by Laura Driscoll, $4.99. Let your beginning reader read about apples on their own! This short and sweet nonfiction book is full of details about how apples grow. Kids (and adults) may be surprised to learn about grafting branches from one tree onto another.
Suni Goes to Space, by Arthy Muthanna Singh and Mamta Nainy, $0.99. When Sunita Williams was young, she dreamed of going into space like Neil Armstrong. Singh and Nainy introduce us to Suni, the inquisitive and creative girl who grew up to become an astronaut.
My Strong Mind: A Story about Developing Mental Strength, by Niels van Hove, $2.99. This is a pretty didactic but accessible book about developing good habits. Here’s the publisher’s description: “Kate faces several situations your children will face too. She applies a positive attitude to deal with her challenges. Amongst them are getting ready in time in the morning, doing cartwheels, standing in front of the whole class with show and tell and playing basketball. Kate applies techniques like goal setting, positive self-talk, accept failure as learning, visualisation of a problem, breathing or mindfulness exercise, gratitude, and controlled distraction. These tips to build a strong mind in children are presented in an easy to read, fun and practical way.”
A Dash of Magic, by Kathryn Littlewood, $3.99. The Bliss series is a mouth-watering literary treat. In this second book in the series, Rosemary is determined to retrieve the magical Cookery Booke that her aunt has stolen — even if it means facing off in an Iron Chef-style food battle. The competition takes the Bliss family to Paris, where the family rushes around famous sites collecting the magical ingredients Rosemary needs. There’s an excellent sense of place. If you enjoy this book, the sequel is also on sale.
Sleep, Big Bear, Sleep! by Maureen Wright, $0.99. It’s time to hibernate in this charming picture book. Bear knows there’s something he needs to do, but he keeps mishearing Old Man Winter’s “Sleep” message and instead thinks he is supposed to leap or sweep. It’s a sweet, funny story perfect for fall.
Scaredy Squirrel, by Melanie Watt, $0.99. Scaredy Squirrel wants to be prepared. He has all of his emergency gear at the ready, prepared for bees, Martians, whatever might happen. He prefers to stick to his safe, steady routine. When a chance encounter causes him to leap into the unknown, he gets a big surprise.
Shampoodle, by Joan Holub, $3.99. This fun easy reader will have kids giggling! The funny, rhyming text describes a day at the dog groomer. The dogs are all very exuberant, even before a cat wanders in and causes mayhem. I love the pictures in this one; there’s lots to see!
Bad Kitty Camp Daze, by Nick Bruel, $4.96. Bad Kitty has an attitude problem that will endear her to surly children everywhere. Bruel built on his picture book series with these early chapter books that contain lots of illustrated action. When Bad Kittle sneaks away to Uncle Murray’s Camp for Stressed-Out Dogs, she learns more than she bargains for about the natural world.
The Hobbits of Tolkien: An Illustrated Exploration of Tolkien’s Hobbits and the Sources that Inspired His Work From Myth, Legend, and History, by David Day, $3.99. Want to know more about the mythology behind Middle Earth? Curious about the etymology of some place names and people? This book perfectly balances detailed research with cozy illustrations. The author has written similar volumes about other elements of Tolkien’s work.
A Dictionary of Sources of Tolkien: The History and Mythology That Inspired Tolkien’s World, by David Day, $3.99. I enjoy sweeping fantasy, but I definitely struggle to keep all the names and places straight. In this extensive volume, Day provides information about all the proper nouns of Middle Earth, both their relevance to the narrative and their allusions to other literary traditions.
An Unexpected Cookbook: The Unofficial Book of Hobbit Cookery, by Chris-Rachael Oseland, $5.99. This book is more expensive than my typical Kindle deals, but I didn’t think we could properly celebrate Hobbit Day without at least one food book. The recipes are broken up into all seven Hobbit meals, with delicious treats like Lavender and Lemon Bread, Yorkshire Pudding, and Honey Cakes. You’ll find detailed recipe notes and mouthwatering photos throughout.
Uncommon Paper Flowers: Extraordinary Botanicals and How to Craft Them, by Kate Alcaron, $2.99. You’ve made a paper rose before, now get ready to try something unique! Alcaron has collected 30 unusual plants and created paper models of them. The book contains detailed botanical descriptions, an extensive technique section, and templates for creating your own dramatic floral display.
Parenting in a Pandemic: How to Help Your Family Through Covid-19, by Kelly Fradin, $0.99. This just came out and will (I hope) only be useful for a limited time, but the price is right and the advice is solid. Here’s the publisher’s description: “Parents are burning out while kids need more help than ever. With so many families in crisis, pediatrician and child advocate Dr. Kelly Fradin sees an urgent need for help. As a mother of two, Dr. Fradin shares practical, evidence-based and reassuring advice on what families need to know. Parents are forced to make decisions now despite seemingly constant change and many unknowns. In Parenting in a Pandemic, Dr. Fradin provides the information and strategies you need to help navigate coronavirus. The book reviews the science necessary to understand the news and care for your family. Dr. Fradin explains the specific risks of coronavirus to children of all ages and adults, including parents, grandparents, pregnant women, and essential workers. She gives realistic strategies you can use to improve this time for your family whether you are protecting a newborn, virtually schooling or convincing a teen to physically distance.”
The House Takes a Vacation, by Jacqueline Davies, $0.99. Get ready for a surreal and wacky adventure! When the house’s people go on vacation, the house decides to take its own trip. Kids and adults will enjoy the pun-filled text and personality-filled illustrations.
The Element Encyclopedia of Magical Creatures, by John and Caitlin Matthews, $3.99. Looking for a reference on obscure creatures? Every time I open this book, I discover a new mythological animal I haven’t heard of before. Here’s the publisher’s description: “From unicorns and trolls to werewolves and griffins, this comprehensive guide is the key to discovering every magical creature from myth, folklore and legend around the world. This compendium of magical creatures explores the history, folklore and mythology of fascinating beasts throughout all the magical worlds. Including stories, celebrations, traditions, and amazing facts, the book spans every major culture across the globe.”
The Wonderling, by Mira Bartok, $0.99. In Mira Bartok’s imagined world, groundlings are creatures that are part animal, part human. Thirteen, a fox groundling, escapes the Dickensian workhouse where has been raised and sets off on an adventure of his own. The tone is similar to Lemony Snicket, but the story is entirely unique, full of mechanical details and animals with extraordinary abilities. Put this strange and interesting book in the hands of your middle-grade reader!
My Robots: The Robotic Genius of Lady Regina Bonquers III, by Johan Olander, $3.99. Olander creates such interesting books! This heavily illustrated book purports to be the design scrapbook of an elusive roboticist. Lady Regina has created bots to fight fires, pluck nose hairs, and even give hugs. Kids will enjoy all the details of the development process, the unique visual style, and a frisson of mystery over Lady Regina’s whereabouts.
The Last Kids on Earth, by Max Brallier, $1.99. Are you ready for some funny post-apocalyptic lit for kids? This madcap adventure mixes peril, gross out humor, and teamwork as an unlikely band of teens works to save the day and stay alive. It’s a middle grade chapter book riddled with exciting and gruesome illustrations. If this sounds like something you’d be into, several books in the series are on sale today.
Big History: From the Big Bang to the Present, by Cynthia Stokes Brown, $3.99. The Big History movement combines science with history to study Earth from the moment of the big bang all the way through current events. Brown does a remarkable job finding through lines in the vast sweep of history. Each era is necessarily brief, but readers will be pleased to see that the history is not overly focused on Western civilization.
Bear and Fred: A World War II Story, by Iris Argaman, $4.99. Picture books can make challenging subjects understandable for small children. In this book, Israeli author Iris Argaman tells the true story of a boy’s time hiding from Nazis during WWII — from the perspective of his loyal teddy bear. It’s a tough but uplifting story that gently introduces the topic of the Holocaust.
Sleepover Larry, by Daniel Pinkwater, $3.99. Larry is a dapper polar bear who lives in a hotel owned by his human family. When Larry learns the concept of sleepovers, he is determined to have a great one with his bear friends from the zoo!
National Geographic Readers: Bears, by Elizabeth Carney, $3.99. Learn about bear species from all over the world in this fun, brightly illustrated easy reader. Sections cover habitats, adaptations, diet, cubs, and more. The level 3 books pack in a lot of detail without complicated vocabulary.
Magic Tree House: Polar Bears Past Bedtime, by Mary Pope Osborne, $3.99. Jack and Annie are off on another adventure, this time to the Arctic! They encounter indigenous hunters, polar bears, the Northern Lights, and more. The Magic Tree House series is great for beginning readers who are looking for fast-paced, exciting (but short) chapter books.
Bibliophile: An Illustrated Miscellany, by Jane Mount, $2.99. This is a literary bonbon for any book lover. As the title suggests, it’s a wonderful collection of miscellaneous facts about books, writers, bookstores, characters, and more. I can almost guarantee that you will find a new author to check out, or even a new favorite book, in the illustrated book lists.
A Spy in the House, by Y.S. Lee, $0.99. This is the first in a series of YA historical mysteries about a young Asian sleuth in Victorian London. Mary is an orphan doomed for the gallows when she is rescued and offered a position at the mysterious Miss Scrimshaw’s Academy for Girls. The school is the training ground for an elite group of detectives who can infiltrate high society households. Lee does an excellent job of offering the gritty details of the Victorian city while staying away from graphic details. The immigrant experience is rarely discussed in historical fiction, so this series provides an interesting perspective.
The March on Washington, by Bonnie Bader, $3.99. American Girl has been bringing accessible historical fiction to early readers for more than 30 years. More recently, the company has published factual companion books that provide deeper background into important events. This book about the 1963 March on Washington includes photos, timelines, maps, and a bibliography for more research.
One Crazy Summer, by Rita Williams-Garcia, $4.99. When the three Gaither sisters travel to California to spend time with their estranged mother, they are expecting movie stars and Disneyland. What they actually experience is a little different: summer camp run by the Black Panthers. The girls spend the next four weeks learning about the movement and discovering their own identities. This work of historical fiction set in 1968 is a nice point of entry for a discussion about the Civil Rights movement and the Black Panthers.
Susan B. Anthony: Her Fight for Equal Rights, by Monica Kulling, $4.99. Get to know one of America’s strongest proponents of women’s voting rights, Susan B. Anthony, in this book for early readers. Anthony was determined to vote in an election, even though it was illegal for women to do so at the time. Her civil disobedience led to her arrest. Young readers will learn about how Anthony’s actions paved the way for the 19th Amendment.
Lillian’s Right to Vote: A Celebration of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, by Jonah Winter and Shane W. Evans, $4.99. Sadly, the 19th Amendment did not make voting accessible to ALL women. In many places, unfair practices like poll taxes, complicated literacy tests, and property ownership rules made it nearly impossible for people of color to vote. In this moving picture book, an old woman reminisces about her family’s history and the many barriers to voting they faced.
The Women’s Suffrage Movement, edited by Sally Roesch Wagner, $4.99. What is the study of history without primary sources? This great collection from Penguin Classics looks at the quest for women’s rights in a delightfully intersectional array of essays, letters, speeches, and other texts. Readers will discover Black and Native American women whose ideas were crucial to the movement but have been overlooked in historical accounts.
The Templeton Twins Have an Idea, by Ellis Weiner, $0.99. If your reader has plowed the A Series of Unfortunate Events and would like something with a similar feel, look no further. The Templetons feel very similar to the Baudelaires. A snippet from the book description gives you an excellent feel for the tone: “Suppose there were 12-year-old twins, a boy and girl named John and Abigail Templeton. Let's say John was pragmatic and played the drums, and Abigail was theoretical and solved cryptic crosswords. Now suppose their father was a brilliant, if sometimes confused, inventor. And suppose that another set of twins—adults—named Dean D. Dean and Dan D. Dean, kidnapped the Templeton twins and their ridiculous dog in order to get their father to turn over one of his genius (sort of) inventions. Yes, I said kidnapped. Wouldn't it be fun to read about that? Oh please. It would so. Luckily for you, this is just the first in a series perfect for boys and girls who are smart, clever, and funny (just like the twins), and enjoy reading adventurous stories (who doesn't?!).”
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.
801 Things You Should Know: From Greek Philosophy to Today’s Technology, by David Olsen, $1.99. You’re a smart person. You’ve probably heard of many of the concepts and events in this book. But you may not be clear on all the details. This collection of short entries about everything from politics to medical terminology to economic principals will serve as a great introduction or refresher. Hand this to a tween/teen along with a newspaper — they’ll be able to quickly get background on unfamiliar terms like bear markets, the Hundred Years’ War, and the Invisible Hand theory.
A Field Guide to Monsters, by Johan Olander, $0.99. Olander is a “monstrologist” who documents monsters’ behavior in the wild. In this whimsical and imaginative book, he collects illustrations and artifacts from the Slobber Bug, Beach Krill, Tadpole-Monster, and other previously unknown (aka imaginary) creatures. It would be fun to compare this book with other, more scientific field guides.
Iron Hearted Violet, by Kelly Barnhill, $1.99. Kelly Barnhill tells such compelling twists on fairytale tropes. In this book, Princess Violet must work with the last dragon alive to protect the world from an evil being she has only read about in a forbidden book. Violet is brave, but not beautiful, strong, but not perfect.
50 Ways to Beat Boredom with LEGO Bricks, by DK Publishing, $0.99. If your house is anything like mine, you have no shortage of LEGO pieces. This short book introduces 50 quick activities and games using the beloved building materials. Build a mountain to create a 3D game board (instructions for a spinner also included) or design a functional piggy bank! This is an idea book, not a book of detailed instructions, but it’s a great jumping off point for an hour or a day of LEGO exploration. Note: If you already have 365 Things to Do with LEGO Bricks, you don’t need this book; this book is a shorter extract of that one.
Would You Rather? Made You Think Edition, by Lindsey Daly, $0.99. They start simple: “Would you rather kiss a fish that’s living in a radioactive pond or roll down a hill while hugging a porcupine?” The questions only get more interesting from there. Turn the questions into a game by scoring points for the best reasoning (guidelines are given in the introduction).
Diary of a Pug: Pug Blasts Off, by Kyla May, $2.99. Meet Bub, aka Baron von Bubbles, beloved pet of Bella. He loves doing everything with his human, so when she enters an invention contest, Bub is determined to help her. But this means he needs to deal with his squirrel nemesis, Nutz. This fun, brightly colored diary is full of wacky adventures and adorable illustrations. Early chapter book readers will love it!
My Heart Fills with Happiness, by Monique Gray Smith, $4.99. This sweet picture book introduces many things that bring happiness — good smells, good friends, and the beauty of nature. The lovely illustrations show many elements in the life on an indigenous family.
The Odds of Loving Grover Cleveland, by Rebekah Crane, $0.99. This Grover Cleveland isn’t a president; he’s a resident at Camp Padua, a summer program for at-risk teens. When Zander’s parents insist she leave home to attend camp, she is sure that she won’t fit in. She’s surprised to make connections with her fellow campers, even though they are all dealing with big problems of their own. This tough but ultimately hopeful novel is also filled with darkly funny moments.
The Mermaid’s Sister, by Carrie Anne Noble, $0.99. I haven’t read this YA fantasy novel yet, but it’s definitely on my To Read list. Here’s the publisher’s summary: In a cottage high atop Llanfair Mountain, sixteen-year-old Clara lives with her sister, Maren, and guardian Auntie. By day, they gather herbs for Auntie’s healing potions; by night, Auntie spins tales of faraway lands and wicked fairies. Clara’s favorite story tells of three orphaned infants—Clara, who was brought to Auntie by a stork; Maren, who arrived in a seashell; and their best friend, O’Neill, who was found beneath an apple tree. One day, Clara discovers iridescent scales just beneath her sister’s skin: Maren is becoming a mermaid and must be taken to the sea or she will die. So Clara, O’Neill, and the mermaid-girl set out for the shore. But the trio encounters trouble around every bend. Ensnared by an evil troupe of traveling performers, Clara and O’Neill must find a way to save themselves and the ever-weakening Maren.
The Testing, by Joelle Charbonneau, $1.99. Calling all fans of The Hunger Games or Divergent! This series should scratch that dystopian coming-of-age itch. Here’s a summary from the publisher: “It’s graduation day for sixteen-year-old Malencia Vale, and the entire Five Lakes Colony (the former Great Lakes) is celebrating. All Cia can think about—hope for—is whether she’ll be chosen for The Testing, a United Commonwealth program that selects the best and brightest new graduates to become possible leaders of the slowly revitalizing post-war civilization. When Cia is chosen, her father finally tells her about his own nightmarish half-memories of The Testing. Armed with his dire warnings (“Cia, trust no one”), she bravely heads off to Tosu City, far away from friends and family, perhaps forever. Danger, romance—and sheer terror—await.”
Princess Academy, by Shannon Hale, $0.99. 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.
Bound: 15 Beautiful Bookbinding Projects, by Rachel Hazell, $3.99. If your family is anything like mine, you probably have dozens of stories your kids have written and illustrated. Why not turn them into an art project by binding them into book form? Or set yourself up for a new school year by creating small notebooks for nature observations or other projects. This book goes through multiple styles, from basic to complex, with step by step instructions.
Mini Weapons of Mass Destruction: Make Mayhem from your Stationery with 35 Models to Build Yourself, by John Austin, $3.99. Do you have pens, rubber bands, and plastic utensils? If so, you’re ready to build a catapult or trebuchet! All of these weapons are small scale but need adult supervision to prevent injury. Keep this book as a resource for discussing wars and weaponry throughout history.
American Heritage History of Flight, by Arthur Gordon, $1.99. This detailed look at aviation begins with ancient attempts to harness the wind and moves through modern technological innovations. While there are few illustrations, the Kindle version includes in-text links to Wikipedia for additional information and visuals.
National Geographic Readers: Planes, by Amy Shields, $4.99. If you are looking for a detailed book that your early elementary students can read on their own, the National Geographic Reader series is a great place to start. This one covers all types of planes, including some unusual ones (have you ever seen the inside of a C-17?) sure to pique interest.
Amazing Airplanes, by Tony Mitton, $3.54. For our youngest family members, we have this bright and simple picture book. Here’s the publisher’s description: “Buckle up to learn all about flying! Amazing Airplanes follows the animal crew, as they become pilots, baggage handlers, and air stewards. Each page is filled with details that machine-mad kids love, such as the cockpit, landing gear, and much more. This book is perfect for budding pilots or happy vacationers! From airplanes to fire engines, the internationally bestselling Amazing Machines series is the perfect way for children to learn about all sorts of vehicles! Each book introduces a new vehicle and the jobs it can do. Bright, engaging artwork and simple, rhyming text combine to make these fantastic books for young children. Kids will love getting to know the friendly, animal characters who feature throughout the series and reading about their fast-paced adventures!”
Her Right Foot, by Dave Eggers, $2.99. This beautiful picture book takes a look at the history of the Statue of Liberty. More than that, Eggers uses the statue to address the inherent freedoms that form the basis of American culture and government. Shawn Harris’s mixed-media illustrations are simple but visually interesting.
Epic Fails: Not-So-Great Presidents, by Ben Thompson and Erik Slader. This newer history series is a lot of fun for middle-grade readers. Rather than focusing on successes, the authors emphasize foibles (e.g., Washington’s mistakes early in his career as a British soldier, Nixon’s Watergate scandal). The result is humanizing; presidents are just people, and everyone makes mistakes. The tone is light and full of contemporary references. A good choice for history fans and history skeptics!
Small Wonders: Jean-Henri Fabre and His World of Insects, by Matthew Clark Smith, $3.99. Fabre is one of the most famous naturalists in history. His interest started when he was a small child fascinated by moths, wasps, and other insects. Instead of merely collecting and dissecting them, Fabre was among the first to study insect behavior in the natural environment.
Microadventures: Local Discoveries, Great Escapes, by Alastair Humphreys, $4.99. The adventures are small, but the world is large! Humphreys is a naturalist and adventurer who has explored all over the world. This book focuses on really getting to know the world right around you. These outdoor adventures can be accomplished in a day or less, with minimal supplies. Humphreys encourages you to chase down a full moon, explore woods and forests, swim in a river, and more. Humphreys is based in the UK, so some of the challenges may not be applicable (e.g., there are few places in the US where you can walk from coast to coast), but most can be adapted to any local environment. This book is perfect for a family looking for new recreation ideas during the pandemic.
Rules, by Cynthia Lord, $3.99. Catherine loves her brother, but she’s not always nice to him. He has autism, and she has created a long list of rules for him to follow so that he doesn’t embarrass her in public. When she meets Jason, a paraplegic who uses a wheelchair and communicates through picture cards, Catherine begins to realize that there’s no one “normal” way to be, and that she needs to find more acceptance and understanding for others, even her own brother.
Freak the Mighty, by Rodman Philbrick, $3.99. This classic story of an unusual friendship has been made into a movie. Kevin has a disorder that prevents him from growing; Max is large for his age and struggles with learning disabilities. Together, Kevin and Max form “Freak the Mighty,” with Kevin riding Max’s shoulders as they explore their surroundings and defeat bullies. Both boys have unique perspectives. Content warning: this book is poignant and tragic.
Missing Math: A Number Mystery, by Loreen Leedy, $3.99. This bright and fun picture book will convince kids of the importance of numbers. Here’s the publisher’s description: “In Missing Math, the numbers all over town suddenly disappear. The animals can’t count, use the phone, or even find out what time it is. Rulers, money, and computers have all become completely useless. . . . Can the town’s detective solve this numerical mystery? Will he ever bring the numbers back home again? Loreen Leedy’s clever rhyming text PLUS her amusing digitally painted illustrations EQUALS proof that we need math each and every day.”
Alone: A Story of Friendship in the Darkness of Space, by Scott Stuart, $0.99. Earth is all alone in space, so it goes off looking for a friend. This sweet, fanciful book includes a few interesting scientific tidbits.
Blast Off to the Moon! by Lauren Gunderson, $3.99. Dr. Wonderful just wants to know why things happen, and she’s willing to explore to find out. When she becomes curious about why the moon changes shape each night, she and her dog decide to go up into space for research. Kids will love the funny illustrations; parents will appreciate the way Dr. Wonderful carefully works through the scientific process to answer her questions.
The Upside of Falling Down, by Rebekah Crane, $1.99. A coming-of-age novel with an unusual twist: Clementine is the sole survivor of a plane crash, and she’s now in Ireland suffering from amnesia. Here’s the plot summary: “With the relentless Irish press bearing down on her, and a father she may not even recognize on his way from America to take her home, Clementine assumes a new identity and enlists a blue-eyed Irish stranger, Kieran O’Connell, to help her escape her forgotten life…and start a new one. Hiding out in the sleepy town of Waterville, Ireland, Clementine discovers there’s an upside to a life that’s fallen apart. But as her lies grow, so does her affection for Kieran, and the truth about her identity becomes harder and harder to reveal, forcing Clementine to decide: Can she leave her past behind for a new love she’ll never forget?”
Zoey and Sassafras: Dragons and Marshmallows, by Asia Citro, $1.99. Science can be magic! Zoey and her cat Sassafras have a big secret: magical creatures are real and come to them for help! Zoey is a budding scientist and uses the scientific method to figure out what is wrong with a sick dragon. This is the first in a series; the short chapters, charming illustrations, and simple language make these books a good choice for budding readers.
What Lives in a Shell? by Kathleen Weidner Zoehfeld, $2.99. This charming book from the “Let’s Read and Find Out” series is a great introduction to crustaceans and other shelled creatures for early elementary readers. Detailed illustrations introduce clams, snails, crabs, and more.
A Tale of Two Cities, by Charles Dickens, $2.99. A classic adventure from Charles Dickens presents the story of the French Revolution through the eyes of the aristocrats, opportunists, and spies of Paris. Break out your knitting needles and settle in for an engrossing read. This edition includes a brief biography of Dickens and some contextual material.
I Survived The Battle of D-Day, by Lauren Tarshis, $3.99. My elementary-schooler has enjoyed several of the books in this series about deadly wars, plagues, and natural disasters. Each book includes a fictionalized story and a short section of historical information. Here’s the publisher’s description: “Eleven-year-old Paul's French village has been under Nazi control for years. His Jewish best friend has disappeared. Food is scarce. And there doesn't seem to be anything Paul can do to make things better. Then Paul finds an American paratrooper in a tree near his home. The soldier says the Allies have a plan to crush the Nazis once and for all. But the soldier needs Paul's help. This is Paul's chance to make a difference. Soon he finds himself in the midst of the largest invasion in history. Can he do his part to turn horror into hope?”
Magic Tree House: Night of the New Magicians, by Mary Pope Osborne, $3.99. Jack and Annie are heading to France! Merlin has sent them to pass along a message to four magicians at the 1889 World’s Fair in Paris. This is a “Merlin Mission,” so it is longer and more involved than the original Magic Tree House books.
Zane and the Hurricane: A Story of Katrina, by Rodman Philbrick, $3.99. Zane doesn’t know New Orleans well; he is visiting his great-grandmother when Hurricane Katrina makes landfall. After chasing his runaway dog, he finds himself fending for himself until he is rescued by a passing canoe. Philbrick includes realistic historical details and deftly addresses issues of race, class, and privilege.
Gandhi: A March to the Sea, by Alice B. McGinty, $1.99. This picture book with beautiful painted illustrations focuses on the nonviolent Satyagraha movement. There’s a free educator’s guide available as a PDF.
The Sky Painter: Louis Fuertes, Bird Artist, by Margarita Engle, $1.99. I will admit that I had never heard of Fuertes before I discovered this book. Thank you, Margarita Engle, for introducing me to his beautiful work. Here’s the publisher’s description: “Louis loves to watch birds. He takes care of injured birds and studies how they look and how they move. His father wants him to become an engineer, but Louis dreams of being a bird artist. To achieve this dream, he must practice, practice, practice. He learns from the art of John James Audubon. But as Louis grows up, he begins to draw and paint living, flying birds in their natural habitats. Louis Agassiz Fuertes (1874–1927) is now known as the father of modern bird art. He traveled with many scientific expeditions all over the world. His best-known works—paintings for habitat exhibits at the American Museum of Natural History in New York—are still beloved by visitors today. His art helped to encourage wildlife conservation, inspiring people to celebrate and protect the world of wings. Poems by Newbery Honor–winning author Margarita Engle and illustrations by Aliona Bereghici capture the life of Louis Fuertes and the deep sense of wonder that he felt when he painted the sky.”
Escape North! The Story of Harriet Tubman, by Monica Kulling, $4.99. I found my copy of this book at the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Historical Park (which is great and you should go!). As I’ve mentioned before, I really like the higher level nonfiction “Step into Reading” books for providing a solid foundation on a topic at the elementary level. Kids will learn about Tubman’s missions escorting enslaved people to freedom, but also about her work as a spy and women’s rights advocate.
Frog and Toad are Friends, by Arnold Lobel, $4.99. This is an easy reader classic! Frog and Toad are not always alike, but they are always there for each other. Join them on their funny adventures swimming, looking for a lost button, and waiting for a letter. Fun pictures and few words on each page make this the perfect first chapter book for a new reader.
I am (Not) Scared, by Anna Kang, $1.99. The bears from You are (Not) Small and That’s (Not) Mine are back with a trip to the amusement park. They are frightened of, and exhilarated by, a whole host of new experiences and discover that being together can make hard things seem less scary.
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.”
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!