Kindle Deals for February 26, 2021
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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Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, An American Slave, by Frederick Douglass, $0.99. This classic memoir of Douglass’s enslaved childhood and his path to freedom and political advocacy is a must-read for American History students. Douglass is a skilled narrator, bringing moving detail and eloquent phrasing to his story.
Dust Tracks on a Road, by Zora Neale Hurston, $1.99. Hurston is one of the most celebrated Black authors of the 20th century. She brings her wry, warm humor to this memoir of her early life in rural Alabama and Florida and her eventual path north to Harlem. Pair this one with Their Eyes Were Watching God or Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglas for an interesting history/literature unit.
A Drop of Midnight, by Jason Diakite, $1.99. This memoir from musician Jason Diakite is both personal and sweeping. Here’s the publisher’s description: “Born to interracial American parents in Sweden, Jason Diakité grew up between worlds—part Swedish, American, black, white, Cherokee, Slovak, and German, riding a delicate cultural and racial divide. It was a no-man’s-land that left him in constant search of self. Even after his hip-hop career took off, Jason fought to unify a complex system of family roots that branched across continents, ethnicities, classes, colors, and eras to find a sense of belonging. In A Drop of Midnight, Jason draws on conversations with his parents, personal experiences, long-lost letters, and pilgrimages to South Carolina and New York to paint a vivid picture of race, discrimination, family, and ambition. His ancestors’ origins as slaves in the antebellum South, his parents’ struggles as an interracial couple, and his own world-expanding connection to hip-hop helped him fashion a strong black identity in Sweden.”
Brown Girl Dreaming, by Jacqueline Woodson, $2.99. From our 50 Books for 50 States feature: “The contrast between life as a young Black girl in 1960s in South Carolina and Brooklyn, New York, is the heart of this lyrical memoir in verse, based on Woodson’s own life. It’s simple enough to read with an elementary student, but it’s rich enough to be a rewarding read with a high schooler, too.”
STILL ON SALE
Spirals in Time: The Secret Life and Curious Afterlife of Seashells, by Helen Scales, $1.99. Some scientists say we know more about space than we do about our oceans. When I look at mollusks, I definitely feel like they could be creatures from another planet. Some are tasty, some are deadly, all are fascinating. Spirals in Time is a collection of facts and tales of mollusks through history, from medical uses to trading in ancient cultures to all the uses of seashells after their hosts have abandoned them. Beautifully rendered line drawings enhance the descriptions.
Iwigara: American Indian Ethnobotanical Traditions and Science, by Enrique Salmon, $1.99. I am fascinated by the field of ethnobotany, or the study of how plants are used in cultural traditions. This book describes the traditional use of dozens of plants by Indigenous tribes throughout North America. Each section also includes chemical analysis of the material and nutritional/health effects. You’ll want this as a reference for nature studies and/or learning about Indigenous cultures.
Other Minds: The Octopus, the Sea, and the Deep Origins of Consciousness, by Peter Godfrey-Smith, $2.99. The cephalopod is a highly sophisticated thinker, able to escape locked containers, find ingenious methods of getting food, and more. Godfrey-Smith blends philosophy and science to consider how these creatures were able to evolve such complex minds and what this means for our understanding of sentience.
Curious About Snow, by Gina Shaw, $4.99. This introductory series from the Smithsonian is great for elementary readers. Big graphics and photo illustrations are combined with interesting facts about the science of snow and major snowstorms in history.
Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children, by Ransom Riggs, $1.99. Teenage Jacob is fleeing family disaster when he stumbles upon the remains of a institution. Is it an orphanage? A school? A prison? Who are these “peculiar children,” and what happened to them? The story, with its eerie photo illustrations, blends reality, fantasy, and horror.
Magic Bitter, Magic Sweet, by Charlie N. Holmberg, $1.99. I’ve read other YA books by Holmberg, and I’m pretty taken with this description: “Maire is a baker with an extraordinary gift: she can infuse her treats with emotions and abilities, which are then passed on to those who eat them. She doesn’t know why she can do this and remembers nothing of who she is or where she came from. When marauders raid her town, Maire is captured and sold to the eccentric Allemas, who enslaves her and demands that she produce sinister confections, including a witch’s gingerbread cottage, a living cookie boy, and size-altering cakes.”
A Phoenix First Must Burn: Sixteen Stories of Black Girl Magic, Resistance, and Hope, edited by Patrice Caldwell, $2.99. Wow, what a collection! Some big names in science fiction and fantasy (and some newcomers) contribute to this short story collection. You’ll find strong heroines, astonishing settings, a diversity of backgrounds, and twisty plots throughout.
Kingdom of Souls, by Rena Barron, $1.99. Black characters have been underrepresented in fantasy novels, so this story inspired by voodoo is a particularly welcome addition. Here’s the publisher’s description: “Heir to two lines of powerful witchdoctors, Arrah yearns for magic of her own. Yet she fails at bone magic, fails to call upon her ancestors, and fails to live up to her family’s legacy. Under the disapproving eye of her mother, the Kingdom’s most powerful priestess and seer, she fears she may never be good enough. But when the Kingdom’s children begin to disappear, Arrah is desperate enough to turn to a forbidden, dangerous ritual. If she has no magic of her own, she’ll have to buy it—by trading away years of her own life. Arrah’s borrowed power reveals a nightmarish betrayal, and on its heels, a rising tide of darkness that threatens to consume her and all those she loves. She must race to unravel a twisted and deadly scheme… before the fight costs more than she can afford.”
Spectacle: The Astonishing Life of Ota Benga, by Pamela Newkirk, $0.99. Newkirk tells the bizarre and shocking story of Ota Benga, an African man who was displayed as a zoo exhibit in the early 20th century. Newkirk tells the story of Benga’s life and also takes a hard look at the racist social science of that time period, which allowed this display to be seen as acceptable.
Black Fortunes: The Story of the First Six African Americans Who Survived Slavery and Became Millionaires, by Shomari Wills, $1.99. Meet half a dozen extraordinary Americans who were born into slavery and then went on to achieve great success. Wills profiles people from many fields: property developers, chemists, and moneylenders. The vivid prose really brings these individuals to life.
The Senator and the Socialite: The True Story of America’s First Black Dynasty, by Lawrence Graham, $1.99. From the publisher: “Spanning more than a century, Lawrence Otis’s illuminating biography is a fascinating look at race and class in America, witnessed through the life of Blanche Kelso Bruce—the head of America’s first black dynasty and the first black U.S. senator. Otis reveals how Bruce rose from slavery to achieve power and prestige in the aftermath of the Civil War. With his wife, the daughter of a prominent Philadelphia physician, he would break social and racial barriers--a legacy continued by their children until scandal destroyed the family’s wealth and stature. Filled with triumph and tragedy, Otis’s riveting book brings into focus an important yet little-known segment of our nation’s past.”
Harriet Tubman, Freedom Fighter, by Nadia L. Hohn, $1.99. Your beginner reader will get to know about Harriet Tubman’s life in this I Can Read book. In addition to Tubman’s efforts to escort enslaved people to freedom, Hohn covers Tubman’s time spent working with the Union army during the Civil War. A handy timeline and more detailed background material are included at the end.
The Only Living Girl: The Island at the Edge of Infinity, by David Gallaher, $0.99. Dive into a high concept world in this middle grade graphic novel. Zee is, as the title suggests, one of few survivors in a multi-planet disaster. This story of high adventure is full of robots, villains, mermaids, and more.
School for Extraterrestrial Girls: Girl on Fire, by Jeremy Whitley, $0.99. As an alien living on Earth, Tara has to be careful not to reveal her true form. When she accidentally combusts in class, she is hustled away to a school for other girls like her. Now Tara has to figure out how to control her powers, get to know an entirely new set of strange classmates, and find out who she really is.
Trish Trash: Rollergirl of Mars, by Jessica Abel, $1.99. It’s roller derby! On Mars! Does Trish have what it takes to join the hover derby team (no wheels needed)? She’s technically not old enough (she’s only 15), but maybe no one will notice…
Star Wars: The Last Jedi, by Alessandro Ferrari, $4.99. Experience all the highlights of Episode VIII in graphic novel form! This boldly illustrated retelling follows Rey as she tracks down Luke Skywalker to convince him to train her as a Jedi. The graphic novel sticks closely to the movie plot and is a great choice for Star Wars fans.
Midnight Without a Moon, by Linda Williams Jackson, $2.99. This book has won tons of awards but is not especially well known. It’s a sensitive take on a hard subject. Rose is 13 when another 13 year old, Emmett Till, is murdered in the next town and his killers are acquitted. Rose comes to term with what it means to be Black in the South and what she needs to do in order to help ensure civil rights for herself and others.
How High the Moon, by Karyn Parsons, $1.99. This middle-grade novel has been described as To Kill a Mockingbird meets One Crazy Summer, and I am eager to read it and see if it lives up to that description. Here’s what the publisher says about it: In the small town of Alcolu, South Carolina, in 1944, 12-year-old Ella spends her days fishing and running around with her best friend Henry and cousin Myrna. But life is not always so sunny for Ella, who gets bullied for her light skin tone and whose mother is away pursuing a jazz singer dream in Boston. So Ella is ecstatic when her mother invites her to visit for Christmas. Little does she expect the truths she will discover about her mother, the father she never knew and her family's most unlikely history. And after a life-changing month, she returns South and is shocked by the news that her schoolmate George has been arrested for the murder of two local white girls. Bittersweet and eye-opening, How High the Moon is a timeless novel about a girl finding herself in a world all but determined to hold her down.
The Black Kids, by Christina Hammonds Reed, $1.99. Middle-aged parents, be warned: books that take place in 1992 are considered historical fiction now! When you get over feeling (so very) old, you’ll appreciate this story about the unrest in Los Angeles after the Rodney King verdict. Ashley’s comfortable, privileged life is shaken up when racial tensions ripple through her school and community. Almost overnight, people start looking at her as not just a cool kid but one of the black kids. How can she make sense of where she fits in?
Jackie and Me: A Baseball Card Adventure, by Dan Gutman, $1.99. Joe has a weird secret power: he can travel in time to the places and times in his baseball cards. When he needs background research for a project on a famous African American, he decides to time-travel to meet Jackie Robinson. While in 1947, Joe learns all about what life was like in 1940s New York and the discrimination faced by Black athletes. This is part of a series pitched at upper elementary readers and is a great choice for reluctant readers who like sports.
First Mothers: The Women Who Shaped the Presidents, by Bonnie Angelo, $1.99. Get to know the women who raised our presidents in this interesting history. Here’s a taste of what you’re getting: “From formidably aristocratic Sara Delano Roosevelt to diehard Democrat Martha Truman, champion athlete Dorothy Bush, and hard-living Virginia Clinton Kelley, Angelo blends these women's stories with the texture of their lives and with colorful details of their times. First Mothers is an in-depth look at the special mother-son relationships that nurtured and helped propel the last twelve American presidents to the pinnacle of power.”
President of the Whole Fifth Grade, by Sherri Winston, $1.99. Brianna is determined to become her class president because she thinks it is the first step on the path to becoming a famous chef. The competition to win the election will test Brianna’s friendships and her personal sense of right and wrong. This series is funny and engaging, but very much school-based and about friend drama, so it may not appeal to some homeschooled tweens.
The Next President: The Unexpected Beginnings and Unwritten Future of America’s Presidents, by Kate Messner and Adam Rex, $1.99. Messner has found a neat way to portray presidential history. Starting from the very beginning, she looks at what the future presidents were doing during Washington’s inauguration. She checks on future presidents a few other times in history before turning to the future and encouraging the reader to consider themselves as a future president.
Conversations with Lincoln: Little-Known Stories from Those Who Met America’s 16th President, by Gordon Leidner, $2.51. There are so many books about Abraham Lincoln out there that it is hard to find one that feels fresh. Leidner has collected the stories of people who met the President Lincoln to paint a fuller picture of the man. I was particularly charmed by the story that forms the book’s introduction, of a young girl who sought out Lincoln’s help for her father, who was wounded in battle.
Women Who Dared: 52 Stories of Fearless Daredevils, Adventurers, and Rebels, by Linda Skeers, $0.99. Get to know some bold, brave women in this collection of short biographies. In a similar style to Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls, this book introduces readers to 52 women who set out to do big things: go over Niagara Falls in a barrel, trek to the North Pole, captain a ship, and more.
Stories for Kids who Dare to be Different, by Ben Brooks, $1.99. I’ve profiled Brooks’s previous book, Stories for Boys who Dare to be Different. This follow-up volume broadens the scope to include girls and women who have changed the world for the better. He draws from many fields, including musicians, authors, activists, and many others. I really enjoy Quinton Wintor’s bold illustrations, which bring the characters to life.
Girl Squads: 20 Female Friendships that Changed History, by Sam Maggs, $2.99. What’s better than one amazing woman? A group of amazing women working together to get things done! Sam Maggs introduces middle and high school readers to female teams, squads, and other partnerships throughout history. Sections are organized by field of endeavor: athletics, war, science, politics, and the arts. I was pleased to discover several new-to-me stories from around the world.
A Glorious Freedom: Older Women Leading Extraordinary Lives, by Lisa Congdon, $1.99. This one’s for all the homeschool parents pondering what they are going to do with their lives once this season of schooling is over. Lisa Congdon has profiled dozens of women over 40 who are creating fulfilling lives on their own terms. Each woman has taken a unique path, and many feature fascinating twists and turns. Congdon’s beautiful illustrations make this book something special. (The glorious hardcover version is something you might want to keep in mind as a gift this holiday season.)
That Bird Has My Wings: The Autobiography of an Innocent Man on Death Row, by Jarvis Jay Masters, $1.99. Masters has had a difficult life, and he describes all the situations and decisions that led to his imprisonment. His abusive childhood with his family and in foster care set him on a path of violence and crime. He has been on death row in California for 30 years. While he admits to other crimes, Masters maintains his innocence in the murder of a corrections officer.
Reading Behind Bars: A True Story of Literature, Law, and Life as a Prison Librarian, by Jill Grunenwald, $1.99. Library school didn’t fully prepare Grunenwald for her first official library job — at a minimum-security prison. Here’s a bit of the publisher’s description: “Over the course of a little less than two years, Jill came to see past the bleak surroundings and the orange jumpsuits and recognize the humanity of the men stuck behind bars. They were just like every other library patron—persons who simply wanted to read, to be educated and entertained through the written word. By helping these inmates, Jill simultaneously began to recognize the humanity in everyone and to discover inner strength that she never knew she had.”
Locking Up Our Own: Crime and Punishment in Black America, by James Forman, Jr., $3.99. People of color are disproportionately jailed in America. Forman traces the history of mass incarceration over the past 50 years. In particular, he focuses on the intense pressure on public officials of color to appear “tough on crime.” By better understanding how we got to know, Forman offers hope for criminal justice reform.
Smart on Crime: A Career Prosecutor’s Plan to Make Us Safer, by Kamala D. Harris, $3.99. Long before she was Vice President, Kamala Harris made a name for herself as a prosecutor and then district attorney. In this memoir/manifesto, Harris busts myths about crime and offers suggestions for changes that could strengthen society. It would be interesting to compare excerpts of this book with Locking Up Our Own. (Note: Smart on Crime was published in 2010 and Harris’s personal views on criminal justice reform have shifted somewhat over time.)
New Suns: Original Speculative Fiction by People of Color, edited by Nisi Shawl, $0.99. Get to know some new authors writing in the science fiction, fantasy, and horror genres! You’ll also find stories from big names in sci-fi/fantasy, like Rebecca Roanhorse and Silvia Moreno-Garcia. The stories don’t share much in common, but this means that there are more opportunities to find one that you really love, no matter what literature you prefer.
Black Enough: Stories of Being Young and Black in America, edited by Ibi Zoboi, $2.99. Wow, check out this description from the publisher. What more could you want? “Black is...sisters navigating their relationship at summer camp in Portland, Oregon, as written by Renée Watson. Black is…three friends walking back from the community pool talking about nothing and everything, in a story by Jason Reynolds. Black is…Nic Stone’s high-class beauty dating a boy her momma would never approve of. Black is…two girls kissing in Justina Ireland’s story set in Maryland. Black is urban and rural, wealthy and poor, mixed race, immigrants, and more—because there are countless ways to be Black enough.”
Life is Short and Then You Die: Mystery Writers of America Present First Encounters with Murder, edited by Kelley Armstrong, $2.99. YA and adult mystery writers come together in this collection of short stories involving teens and murder. It’s hard to talk about individual stories without giving things away, but there are plenty of twists, thrills, and chills.
Unbroken: 13 Stories Starring Disabled Teens, edited by Marieke Nijkamp, $2.99. The use of the word “starring” in the title is fitting. These are stories about disabled teens, but it is the teen, not the limitation that is the focus. The stories are written by disabled authors, representing a variety of visible and invisible disabilities.
Martin Luther King Jr.: A Peaceful Leader, by Sarah Albee, $1.99. Your early elementary students can do their own research with this easy reader biography of Martin Luther King, Jr. Simple language traces King’s story, from childhood in Georgia to the March on Washington.
March Forward, Girl, by Melba Pattillo Beals, $1.99. Melba Pattillo Beals became famous for being one of the Little Rock Nine, the first black students to integrate Central High School. If you are looking for a book that portrays the experiences and emotions of growing up in a segregated city, you’ll find Beals’s memoir useful. Though the book is written for middle and high school readers, she doesn’t shy away from traumatic experiences of lynchings and run-ins with the Klan.
We March, by Shane W. Evans, $2.99. We March is a great way to introduce the 1963 March on Washington to the youngest audience. This picture book doesn’t have many words, but the images tell a powerful story. You’ll see the march through the eyes of a young boy and his family.
When They Call You a Terrorist: A Story of Black Lives Matter, by Patrisse Khan-Cullors and asha bandele, $2.99. I love the new publishing trend of creating middle-grade and YA versions of nonfiction bestsellers. There’s been a dearth of detailed, interesting nonfiction for middle and high school students who are overwhelmed by the detail or mature content of adult books. When They Call You a Terrorist is a YA adaptation of Khan-Cullors’s memoir about the circumstances that led to her founding the Black Lives Matter movement. The first half of the book focuses on her family life, while the second half takes on the social justice and civil rights issues that form the basis of BLM.
Love, Splat, by Rob Scotton, $0.99. Splat the Cat want to tell Kitten that he likes her. Will their class Valentine’s Day celebration give him the opportunity he needs? Fellow classmate Spike provides an excellent example of how NOT to behave.
This is Not a Valentine, by Carter Higgins, $1.99. This book is really cute, and a perfect read for anyone who isn’t all that into hearts and doilies. Here’s the publisher’s description: “This book is not a valentine. It doesn't have lacey edges or sugary hearts. But it is full of lucky rocks, secret hiding spots, and gumball machine treasures. This is a book about waiting in line and wishing for cinnamon buns. About recognizing that if you care so much about someone not thinking you care, maybe you really do. But wait—isn't that exactly what love is about? Maybe this book is sort of a valentine after all. A testament to handmade, wacky, bashful, honest love—sure to win over the hearts of all readers—this offering from debut picture book author Carter Higgins and children's book veteran Lucy Ruth Cummins is the perfect gift to celebrate every relationship, from parent to child, sibling to sibling, partner to partner, crush to crush. Plus, this is the fixed format version, which looks almost identical to the print edition.”
Laugh-Out-Loud Valentine’s Day Jokes for Kids, by Rob Elliott, $1.99. Prepare for some serious puns! This short book is full of funny love-related humor suitable for kids of all ages.
Amelia Bedelia’s First Valentine, by Herman Parish, $1.99. Young Amelia Bedelia is celebrating Valentine’s Day at school. True to the original books, Amelia’s literal thinking leads to hilarious mishaps. These newer Amelia stories don’t quite live up to the wackiness of the original series, but they are still fun.
A Sloth’s Guide to Mindfulness, by Ton Mak, $1.99. Learn more about meditation and mindfulness from a cute, serene sloth. Mak’s charming illustrations and simple language come together in a clever and practical guide.
How to Be a Wildflower: A Field Guide, by Katie Daisy, $2.99. I don’t really know how to describe this book. It’s a bit like picking up someone else’s inspirational nature journal. Inside you’ll find botanical paintings, lists of places to see and things to do, and beautifully lettered motivational quotes. You’ll definitely need to view this one in color.
In Progress: Seeing Inside a Lettering Artist’s Sketchbook and Process, from Pencil to Vector, by Jessica Hische, $2.99. I love to learn about how things are made, and this peek into a lettering artist’s work process is really fascinating to me. This is a great introduction to the terminology, tools, and business of lettering. You’ll enjoy this look behind the scenes even if you, like me, have no talent for fancy handwriting.
Ultimate Book of Card Games: The Comprehensive Guide to More Than 350 Games, by Scott McNeely, $2.99. What better way to while away cold winter evenings than with a new card game? This book provides simple instructions for both common and uncommon games. Whether you are in the mood for Gin Rummy or Spite and Malice, you’ll find all the information you need.
Racing Against the Odds: The Story of Wendell Scott, Stock Car Racing’s African-American Champion, by Carole Boston Weatherford, $0.99. I’d never heard of Wendell Scott before I found this book, and I’m glad for the opportunity to get to know more about him! Scott was the first African-American to win a NASCAR division cup. He was able to do this despite prejudice and lack of corporate sponsorship.
The Harlem Hellfighters: When Pride Met Courage, by Walter Dean Myers and Bill Miles, $1.99. Beloved children’s book author Walter Dean Myers (Monster, Fallen Angels) has teamed up with unit historian Bill Miles to tell the story of the 369th Infantry Regiment, an all-Black unit in created in WWI.
Draw What You See: The Life and Art of Benny Andrews, by Kathleen Benson, $2.99. This lovely picture book is illustrated with Benny Andrews paintings! Here’s the publisher’s description: “Benny Andrews loved to draw. He drew his nine brothers and sisters, and his parents. He drew the red earth of the fields where they all worked, the hot sun that beat down, and the rows and rows of crops. As Benny hauled buckets of water, he made pictures in his head. And he dreamed of a better life—something beyond the segregation, the backbreaking labor, and the limited opportunities of his world. Benny’s dreams took him far from the rural Georgia of his childhood. He became one of the most important African American painters of the twentieth century, and he opened doors for other artists of color. His story will inspire budding young artists to work hard and follow their dreams.”
Passenger on the Pearl: The True Story of Emily Edmonson’s Flight from Slavery, $1.99. This fascinating biography is written for middle to high school students. Emily Edmonson was one of the group of enslaved people who attempted to escape on the Pearl. Though that attempt was thwarted, Emily never gave up hope and eventually found her way to freedom. Conkling collects primary sources and illustrations to document Edmonson’s life. She does not shy away from the uncomfortable realities of slavery, including details that may be challenging for sensitive readers.
The Confidence Code for Girls, by Katty Kay and Claire Shipman, $2.99. This is another book that had me hopping up and down. My daughter LOVES this book. She has highlighted portions, rereads certain chapters when she is having a rough time, and recommends it to all the kids in her age bracket. This book aims to stop the cycle of self-doubt in tweens and teens by encouraging them to embrace their whole selves and try things even when success is not guaranteed. The text is broken up with fun illustrations, quizzes, and more. My favorite 9 year old says, “Basically this book has become my bible. It has helped me through emotional and physical problems with friends, screentime, puberty, overthinking, not taking risks, and more. I strongly recommend this book for girls who need a source to help them with these struggles.”
I’m a Girl: Hormones, by Shelley Metten, $2.99. This short, detailed book explains hormonal changes of puberty, focusing on menstruation. Parent reviewers are torn about whether the detailed illustrations (e.g., how to insert a tampon) are age appropriate. My take is absolutely yes, but your mileage may vary.
The Tooth Book, by Mark Bacera, $2.99. Learn all about the different types of teeth and what they do in this fun picture book. The wacky line drawings will entertain kids while they learn about oral hygiene, going to the dentist, cavities, and more.
My Body Sends a Signal: Helping Kids Recognize Emotions and Express Feelings, by Natalia Maguire, $3.99. It can be hard for kids, especially neurodivergent kids, to connect physical feelings to emotions. Maguire gives example situations and ties them to physical sensations, then labels the emotions (e.g., “My eyebrows raised. My eyes opened wide. My mouth opened. I was SURPRISED!” The illustrations are active and cute.
Black is a Rainbow Color, by Angela Joy, $2.99. Add a dose of Black joy to your reading list! In this book, a girl muses about the beauty and power of the color black and the Black people who have shaped a vibrant American culture. You’ll find excellent end matter: glossary, music recommendations, famous people to learn more about.
Let’s Talk About Love, by Claire Kann, $2.99. This romantic comedy about an asexual teen sounds perfectly charming. I’m looking forward to reading it; I love to read about underrepresented perspectives. Here’s the publisher’s description: “Alice had her whole summer planned. Nonstop all-you-can-eat buffets while marathoning her favorite TV shows (best friends totally included) with the smallest dash of adulting—working at the library to pay her share of the rent. The only thing missing from her perfect plan? Her girlfriend (who ended things when Alice confessed she's asexual). Alice is done with dating—no thank you, do not pass go, stick a fork in her, done. But then Alice meets Takumi and she can’t stop thinking about him or the rom com-grade romance feels she did not ask for (uncertainty, butterflies, and swoons, oh my!). When her blissful summer takes an unexpected turn and Takumi becomes her knight with a shiny library-employee badge (close enough), Alice has to decide if she’s willing to risk their friendship for a love that might not be reciprocated—or understood.”
The Norm Chronicles: Stories and Numbers About Danger and Death, by Michael Blastland and David Spiegelhalter, $2.99. This year seems like a good time to learn more about absolute and relative risk. In this informative and darkly funny book, two journalists attempt to quantify the actual risks of many common activities, such as skydiving, eating a banana, or getting a vaccine. You’ll learn about MicroMorts, the way to quantify risk of death.
I Want to Be a Doctor, by Laura Driscoll, $2.99. A trip to the ER introduces a young girl to all the different ways that doctors can help people. This easy reader introduces kids to radiologists, orthopedists, pathologists, and several other specialties. The story is simple, but full of interesting information.
Stony the Road: Reconstruction, White Supremacy, and the Rise of Jim Crow, by Henry Louis Gates, Jr., $4.99. This detailed history book won many awards in 2019. From the publisher: “The story Gates tells begins with great hope, with the Emancipation Proclamation, Union victory, and the liberation of nearly 4 million enslaved African-Americans. Until 1877, the federal government, goaded by the activism of Frederick Douglass and many others, tried at various turns to sustain their new rights. But the terror unleashed by white paramilitary groups in the former Confederacy, combined with deteriorating economic conditions and a loss of Northern will, restored "home rule" to the South. The retreat from Reconstruction was followed by one of the most violent periods in our history, with thousands of black people murdered or lynched and many more afflicted by the degrading impositions of Jim Crow segregation. An essential tour through one of America's fundamental historical tragedies, Stony the Road is also a story of heroic resistance, as figures such as W. E. B. Du Bois and Ida B. Wells fought to create a counter-narrative, and culture, inside the lion's mouth. As sobering as this tale is, it also has within it the inspiration that comes with encountering the hopes our ancestors advanced against the longest odds.”
Evicted: Power and Profit in the American City, by Matthew Desmond, $4.99. This close look at the lives of the urban poor is eye-opening. Desmond follows eight families at risk of homelessness. This excerpt from the publisher represents the ethos of the book well: “Even in the most desolate areas of American cities, evictions used to be rare. But today, most poor renting families are spending more than half of their income on housing, and eviction has become ordinary, especially for single mothers. In vivid, intimate prose, Desmond provides a ground-level view of one of the most urgent issues facing America today. As we see families forced into shelters, squalid apartments, or more dangerous neighborhoods, we bear witness to the human cost of America’s vast inequality—and to people’s determination and intelligence in the face of hardship.”
Blast Back: Ancient Greece, by Nancy Ohlin, $4.99. The Blast Back early chapter book series is full of fun facts and plentiful illustrations. This volume on Ancient Greece includes common information (rulers, mythology, etc.) as well as more unusual tidbits. This books is not detailed enough to become the spine for your ancient history study, but it’s a fun addition that elementary kids can read on their own.
We are Water Protectors, by Carole Lindstrom, $2.99. This picture book celebrates Native American life through poetic text and gorgeous imagery. From the publisher: “Inspired by the many Indigenous-led movements across North America, We Are Water Protectors issues an urgent rallying cry to safeguard the Earth’s water from harm and corruption—a bold and lyrical picture book written by Carole Lindstrom and vibrantly illustrated by Michaela Goade.”
Sacajawea: Her True Story, by Joyce Milton, $4.99. This level 4 reader goes into significant detail about Sacajawea’s life, including her childhood, her time with Lewis and Clark, and the conflicting accounts of what happened in her later years. The warm illustrations and detailed maps make this an excellent choice for a history resource.
The Hidden Life of Trees, by Peter Wohlleben, $1.99. Get to know the forest in this fascinating natural history book. From the publisher: “Are trees social beings? In The Hidden Life of Trees forester and author Peter Wohlleben convincingly makes the case that, yes, the forest is a social network. He draws on groundbreaking scientific discoveries to describe how trees are like human families: tree parents live together with their children, communicate with them, support them as they grow, share nutrients with those who are sick or struggling, and even warn each other of impending dangers. Wohlleben also shares his deep love of woods and forests, explaining the amazing processes of life, death, and regeneration he has observed in his woodland.”
Leaves! Leaves! Leaves! by Nancy Elizabeth Wilson, $3.99. Mama and Buddy Bear learn about the function of leaves in this charming picture book. They investigate trees and plants in each season to see how they adapt to changing weather conditions. Wilson’s imaginative cut paper illustrations add humor and interest.
Seed to Plant, by Kristen Baird Rattini, $4.99. This beginning reader from National Geographic follows plants of many varieties from seed to maturity. Vibrant photo illustrations are paired with simple language and fun facts to keep kids engaged.
The Bonsai Beginner’s Bible, by Peter Chan, $2.99. Grow your own trees inside your house! This book provides all the information you need to get started with bonsai. Chan covers the most common breeds of trees, how to care for them, and problem-solving tips.
Seeker of Knowledge: The Man Who Deciphered Egyptian Hieroglyphs, by James Rumford, $4.99. This beautifully illustrated picture book tells the story of Jean-Francois Champollion, an Egyptologist who was the first to decipher hieroglyphs.
Tut’s Mummy Lost… and Found, by Judy Donnelly, $4.99. This Level 4 reader is perfect for getting elementary kids interested in reading nonfiction. It’s also a great quick read for older readers who want a focused look at King Tut. You’ll find a nice mix of photos and illustrations.
Tutankhamun, by Demi, $3.99. Demi’s well-researched histories of famous figures are great resources for young readers. This lavishly illustrated picture book is full of details about Tutankhamun’s life and Egyptian culture, including more information about religion and politics that you’ll find in many children’s books on the topic.
Flamingo Sunset, by Jonathan London and Kristina Rodanas, $3.99. This beautifully illustrated picture book traces the lifespan of a flamingo. Children can watch the baby flamingo hatch and grow up until he is an adult and ready to begin his own migration.
Penguins! by Anne Schreiber, $4.99. Get to know these sleek creatures of the southern hemisphere! This National Geographic leveled reader is fully of full-color illustrations and fun facts.
Mindful Thoughts for Makers: Connecting Head, Heart, Hands, by Ellie Beck, $2.70. This charming book emphasizes the importance of slowing down and creating things by hand. Charming illustrations make the reading experience particularly enjoyable. If you are looking for ways to incorporate mindfulness into your everyday life, this is a great place to start. Other books in this series cover other activities, like cycling, stargazing, running, and parenting.
Think Outside the Box, by Justine Avery and Liuba Syrotiuk, $4.99. This colorful and imaginative picture book encourages readers of all ages to think and act creatively.
Mastermind: How to Think Like Sherlock Holmes, by Maria Konnikova, $1.99. Sherlock Holmes's prodigious mind has fascinated readers for more than a century. In this clever and fascinating book, psychologist Maria Konnikova examines Sherlock’s powers of observation and deduction to show readers how the brain works and what steps those of us who are not master detectives can take to improve our abilities.
The Carols of Christmas, by Andrew Gant, $1.99. Get ready to dig into the history of the familiar but sometimes strange songs of the holiday season. Who was Good King Wenceslas? Gant is both a historian and composer, and he packs this book full of interesting details.
Carols and Chaos, by Cindy Anstey, $2.99. This Christmassy YA tale has a bit of everything: historical fiction, mystery, a touch of romance. The storyline has hints to Dickens, Austen, and Bronte. In a twist from most classics, the main character is not a gentlewoman but a lady’s maid seeking to make her own fortune. Life becomes complicated when holiday guests bring intrigue and a counterfeiting plot to the employer’s home.
Sneezy the Snowman, by Maureen Wright, $0.99. This funny book about a snowman with a cold will have kids giggling. To warm himself up, he drinks some cocoa, sits near the fire, and accidentally melts (like Olaf!). Luckily, there are local children nearby who are happy to help him build back up.
Snowzilla, by Janet Lawler, $3.99. From the publisher: “It snowed without stopping for week after week. When it ended at last, Cami Lou took a peek. She bundled and booted and zipped up her brother. “Let’s build a huge snowman unlike any other!” Cami Lou and her brother build the biggest, hugest, most mammoth snowman the world has ever seen. It’s Snowzilla! The snowman becomes an instant sensation, and tourists pour into the small town. But not everyone is impressed. Some say the giant snowman brings giant problems. Then a judge rules that Snowzilla must come down. Can Cami Lou and her brother save Snowzilla? This fun winter story combines rhyming text with adorable acrylic and colored pencil artwork.”
There Was a Cold Lady Who Swallowed Some Snow! by Lucille Colandro, $3.99. The Old Lady who Swallowed a Fly is back with lots more wintry things to swallow. Hilarity ensues.
The Snow Dancer, by Addie Boswell, $4.99. Boswell’s spare text and Lopez’s lovely illustrations really capture the stillness and beauty, and then the exuberant joy, of a snowy day.
The Secret Lives of Color, by Kassia St. Clair, $1.99. Think you know your colors? Think again! St. Clair tells the stories of 75 different shades, their roles in history and culture, and their effects on human perception. The fascinating facts are arranged into quick essays — perfect for a five-minute escape.
100 Snowmen, by Jen Arena and Stephen Gilpin, $0.99. This fun counting book sneaks in some real math practice! When different groups of snowmen meet up for various activities, the text adds them up to find out how many there are in total. Gilpin’s fun illustrations mean that the adding never feels like work.
Scooper and Dumper, by Lindsay Ward, $4.99. Two work trucks must work together in this charming picture book. Here’s the publisher’s description: “The best of friends, Scooper the front loader and Dumper the snowplow take care of their town in all kinds of weather. One day a snowstorm hits, and the big city needs their help to clear the roads. Each of them must be brave in their own way to get the job done. This wintry adventure spotlights the ideas of individual strengths, teamwork, and friendship in a vehicle buddy story that boys and girls alike will love.”
The Reader, by Amy Hest, $3.99. I love this sweet picture book. A reader and his trusty companion set out an a fantastically snowy journey. They travel up a big hill, read a book at the top, and then sled back down again. The simple text feels both sophisticated and cozy.
The 12 Snow Days of Winter, by EW Turner, $2.99. If you’ve been looking for a secular alternative to The Twelve Days of Christmas, this is exactly what you need. You’ll find a wintry take on the classic song, with snowmen, sleds, cocoa, and more.
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.
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.
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.