Kindle Deals for November 13, 2019
Mythological adventures and planetary musings will thrill readers of all ages.
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.)
BIG NEWS! We now have an email list to send you a reminder each time we post new deals to the website. If you’d like to make sure you never miss a deal, sign up here.
Percy Jackson and The Olympians: The Lightning Thief, by Rick Riordan, $1.99. This is the original of all Rick Riordan’s mythology-based novels. Percy is a tween who sees monsters no one else can see. He is expelled from school and sent off to Camp Half-Blood, where he discovers that he is a demigod and that the Greek gods are real. Percy must go on a quest through the underworld to prevent a war between the gods. This is a high adventure, entertaining read, and is a great pathway into the extensive world of Riordan.
The Jumbies, by Tracey Baptiste, $1.99. This is another mythology-based book, but grounded in Haitian folklore. Corinne doesn’t believe that jumbies, tricksters that live in the forest, are real. But when a mysterious woman arrives in her town, it is up to Corinne to save the entire island from being taken over by jumbies. This spooky, action-packed adventure will appeal to middle grade readers.
The Planets, by Dava Sobel, $4.99. Sobel is a beautiful writer who breathes life into scientific subjects. Here she takes on the planets, looking at how they were discovered, the roles they have played in mythology and astrology, the impact they have had on literary culture, and more. Sobel balances careful scientific detail with beautiful language.
STILL ON SALE
The Strange Case of the Origami Yoda, by Tom Angleberger, $1.99. From Booklist: "Tommy and his friends think that Dwight is a weirdo who’s 'always talking about robots or spiders or something.' In true Dwight fashion, he shows up at school one day brandishing a little origami Yoda finger puppet. The really weird thing is that it doles out very un-Dwight-like bits of wisdom, and the mystery is whether the Yoda is just Dwight talking in a funny voice or if it actually has mystical powers." Hand this to your 4th to 6th grader who loves the Wimpy Kid series.
Lost in Translation: An Illustrated Compendium of Untranslatable Words from Around the World, by Ella Frances Sanders, $4.99. Each language has words that are uniquely specific to their geography or culture. These words don’t translate easily or simply into other languages. This book collects 50 such words from around the world. You’ll learn commuovere (Italian: to be moved to tears) and glas wen (Welsh: a smile that is mocking or sarcastic). Word nerds will be fascinated.
Physics of the Future: How Science Will Shape Human Destiny and Our Daily Lives by the Year 2100, by Michio Kaku, $4.99. What will the world look like in 80 years? Physicist Michio Kaku looks at trends in today’s science research to speculate on the impacts of technology. Kaku discusses the likelihood of hovercars, mind control of electronics, antimatter rockets, and more. The science is rigorous — Kaku interviewed more than 300 scientists in dozens of fields to research book — but it also feels fanciful and fun.
In Conclusion, Don’t Worry About It, by Lauren Graham, $4.99. In 2017, Gilmore Girls actress Lauren Graham was invited to give a commencement address at her former high school. This book is an expansion of that speech. It’s funny and moving and features advice like this, “Whatever path you choose, whatever career you decide to go after, the important thing is that you keep finding joy in what you’re doing, especially when the joy isn’t finding you.”
The Art of the Wasted Day, by Patricia Hampl, $4.99. This is an unusual travelogue. Hampl travels around the world to places where people have retreated for solitude and relaxation. She visits the homes of recluses Gregor Mendel, Michel Montaigne, and others. Interspersed throughout are stories from Hampl’s own life. This is a musing on relaxation, solitude, adventure, and loss.
Home of the Brave: 15 Immigrants Who Shaped U.S. History, by Brooke Khan, $4.99. Learn about the contributions immigrants have made to America, from Madeleine Albright to Carlos Santana. Spanning many eras and realms of achievement, this book will introduce elementary readers to more than a dozen notable Americans. Each biography includes ideas for related activities and additional reading.
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.
Little Free Libraries and Tiny Sheds, by Philip Schmidt, $2.99. Little Free Libraries and Little Free Pantries have popped up all over my area. These little huts provide a place for people to donate and pick up books and/or food items. This book offers detailed instructions for how to create your own! Enjoy a fun family project that will also benefit your larger community!
World of Geekcraft: Step-by-Step Instructions for 25 Super-Cool Craft Projects, by Susan Beal, $1.99. Do you have people in your life who appreciate scifi, fantasy, video games, or science? This is the book for them, or for you. The holiday season is approaching, and this collection of DIY projects is perfect for creating unique gifts.
How to Raise Successful People, by Esther Wojcicki, $2.99. This guide to parenting by a beloved teacher focuses on building independence and resilience in children and young adults. By focusing on TRICK: Trust, Respect, Independence, Collaboration, and Kindness, Wojcicki asserts that we can raise individuals who can change the world.
The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie, by Alan Bradley, $1.99. Readers will fall in love with the precocious 11-year-old heroine of this grown-up mystery novel. Flavia loves chemistry and has a strong interest in poison. When an old acquaintance of her father dies in her yard, it is up to Flavia to find out who killed him and why. Though it may appeal to younger readers, this book was not written for a middle-grade audience.
The Wind in the Willows, by Kenneth Grahame and Grahame Baker-Smith, $3.32. The classic tale of Mole, Rat, and Mr. Toad has been reinvigorated with some truly gorgeous illustrations. These charming adventures are funny and oh-so-very British.
How to Read Nature, by Tristan Gooley, $1.99. I thought I was generally knowledgeable about the natural world, but I learned SO many things from this book! For instance, did you know that moss and algae are most likely to grow on the north side of trees or structures? Tristan Gooley has spent years studying nature and shares all his secrets for way-finding, foraging, and more in the short but densely fact-filled book.
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.”
Chalk, by Bill Thomson, $0.99. This is a picture book with no words, perfect for kids who would like to make up the story on their own. Or, if you have a kid like mine, who really loves words and reading, it may be deeply unsettling. Use your best judgment. Told through gorgeous, realistic illustrations, Chalk is the story of what happens one day when kids’ chalk drawings come to life.
Pride and Prejudice and Zombies, by Jane Austen and Seth Grahame-Smith, $1.99. You’re either going to love this or hate it. Seth Grahame-Smith has expanded Austen’s classic novel to add in scenes of a zombie plague in Meryton. More than 80% of Austen’s original text remains, with modern and gruesome enhancements. This is an over-the-top parody that also seriously addresses some of the interesting details and side plots of the original work. It’s ridiculous, yes, but also fairly entertaining and fodder for an excellent discussion about literary adaptations. If this sounds like your kind of thing, you may also want to check out Sense and Sensibility and Sea Monsters.
Lives in Ruins: Archaeologists and the Seductive Lure of Human Rubble, by Marilyn Johnson, $1.99. Indiana Jones is by far the most famous and exciting archaeologist, running through the jungle digging up bones and fighting off Nazis. But what does the job a real archaeologist look like? Johnson spends time with archaeologists doing work around the world to discover the sweat, cultural discussions, and technology that shape modern research.
Before They Were Authors: Famous Writers as Kids, by Elizabeth Haidle, $2.99. This charming graphic novel tells the stories of many famous authors when they were kids. The backgrounds are varied and interesting, and the illustrations look both cute and historical. This stories will inspire kids and make them consider whether they could become famous writers too.
Other Words For Home, by Jasmine Warga, $1.99. This middle grade story about a Syrian girl moving to Cincinnati is a tough but lovely read. Told in lyrical verse through Jude’s eyes, Other Words For Home traces her path from Aleppo to the U.S., her confusion about the differences in American customs, and her path to how she will fit into her new home. Read this book for a great opportunity to see the world from a new perspective.
A Closed and Common Orbit, by Becky Chambers, $1.99. This is the award-winning second book in a scifi series, but it can be read as a standalone. Chambers writes space opera scifi that really focuses on relationships between the characters. The plot is complicated, so I’ll let the publisher describe it: “Lovelace was once merely a ship’s artificial intelligence. When she wakes up in a new body, following a total system shut-down and reboot, she has no memory of what came before. As Lovelace learns to negotiate the universe and discover who she is, she makes friends with Pepper, an excitable engineer, who’s determined to help her learn and grow. Together, Pepper and Lovey will discover that no matter how vast space is, two people can fill it together.”
Don’t Know Much About Mythology, by Kenneth C. Davis, $2.99. I’m sure my HSL readers know a lot of things about mythology, but this book is pretty comprehensive. Davis looks at myths from around the world. Dig deeper than Greeks and Romans to learn about Druid myths, Incan gods, and more.
Better Than Normal: How What Makes You Different Can Make You Exceptional, by Dale Archer, $4.99. I have not read this, but the concept sounds intriguing. Dr. Archer looks at 8 common behavior traits that can be problematic when extreme to discover the ways they can also be beneficial. He suggests that attentiveness, anxiety, shyness, and other issues lie along a spectrum. Everyone’s personality is shaped by one or more of these traits, and Archer offers ways to harness them to work for you.
Raising a Sensory Smart Child, by Lindsey Biel and Nancy Peske, $4.99. This recently revised book is a great resource for parents of children with sensory sensitivities. The authors provide detailed information on the science behind sensory issues, then offer practical tips for dealing with the challenges that can come with sensory avoidance or seeking. Practical suggestions about the learning environment will be helpful to homeschoolers and those trying to partner with a school to meet a child’s needs.
A History of the World in 100 Objects, by Neil MacGregor, $4.99. This book is fantastic! I own the giant doorstop that is the print edition, and it sits in my living room at all times as a handy reference or exploration guide. The title is fairly descriptive. MacGregor has gathered a collection of artifacts from all over the world that illustrate some major stops in the human journey of innovation. From early jewelry to cookware to the modern credit card, each object’s significance is carefully described. This is the kind of book you can read sequentially or dip into when curious about a time period or geographic area.
Lord of the Flies, by William Golding, $1.99. This is a classic of coming-of-age literature found on many high school curricula. A group of boys is stranded on an island after a school trip gone horribly wrong. With no adults to guide them, they must govern themselves and find a way off of the island. They have some remarkable successes and some very memorable failures. Read this book to start a discussion of human nature.
How to Be a Happier Parent, by KJ Dell’Antonia, $4.99. I’ve really enjoyed Dell’Antonia’s New York Times parenting column. This book collects and connects some of the recurring themes about how to find a greater sense of happiness and peace through the parenting journey. From the publisher: In this optimistic, solution-packed book, KJ asks: How can we change our family life so that it is full of the joy we'd always hoped for? Drawing from the latest research and interviews with families, KJ discovers that it's possible to do more by doing less, and make our family life a refuge and pleasure, rather than another stress point in a hectic day. She focuses on nine common problem spots that cause parents the most grief, explores why they are hard, and offers small, doable, sometimes surprising steps you can take to make them better.
Moby-Duck: The True Story of 28,800 Bath Toys Lost at Sea & of the Beachcombers, Oceanographers, Environmentalists & Fools Including the Author Who Went in Search of Them, by Donovan Hohn, $4.99. A few years ago, an entire shipping container full of rubber ducks went missing in transit. The ducks were carried along by ocean currents and began showing up on beaches around the world. Donovan Hohn decided to track down some ducks and find out more about the natural forces behind the story. He learned way more than he expected. This book follows him on what became an epic adventure into ocean currents, shipping conglomerates, global economics, and more.
The Savage Garden: Cultivating Carnivorous Plants, by Peter D’Amato, $4.99. No, we are not talking about the ‘90s band, we are talking about plants that eat insects and other small creatures. My kid has been fascinated by meat-eating plants for years; they go against the basic biology we teach small children. This book describes in great detail the most common types of carnivorous plants and how you might grow them at home. With a chapter called “Other Savage Plants from the Demented Mind of Mother Nature,” this book feels perfect for some spooky fall reading. The well-researched plant descriptions and beautiful photos make this book an interesting pick even if you have no intention of growing your own carnivorous plants.
Catherine, Called Birdy, by Karen Cushman, $3.99. From our Great Epistolary Novels list: It’s problematic, of course, to pretend that we can understand what might have gone on in the head 14th century girl, but Cushman makes a solid effort here, and this novel — which takes the form of Catherine’s journal — paints a fascinating (and well researched) picture of medieval life. Catherine doesn’t have a lot of agency: She’s going to have to do what her father says, including marrying the man he’s picked out for her, however much she might rebel against the idea in her diary. That rebelling feels a little anachronistic, but I’m not sure a middle grades reader would be able to identify with Catherine at all without it so I think it’s an understandable conceit. If you’re studying the Middle Ages any time soon, you will definitely want to have this one on your list.
Daughters of the Night Sky, by Aimie K. Runyan, $4.99. This novel highlights a lesser known story of WWI, that of the Russian Night Witches. This all female regiment of pilots terrorizes the Nazis, flying dangerous but crucial missions. Runyan takes readers along on the harrowing flights, then considers how life must change once the war is over.
Ingredients: A Visual Exploration of 75 Additives and 25 Food Products, by Dwight Eschliman and Steve Ettinger, $0.99. What is really in the food we eat? What is caramel color, anyway? What does xanthan gum actually do, and where does it come from? This fascinating collaboration between a photographer and a science writer will answer all of these questions and more. They break down all the ingredients in more than two dozen common foods to explain how all the pieces fit together. You may never look at Cool Ranch Doritos the same way, but you’ll enjoy learning about the process!
Monsters You Should Know, by Emma Sancartier, $1.99. This is the cutest book about horrifying monsters that you will ever see. Truly creepy monsters from folklore around the world are illustrated in a scary but still somehow charming style. This is a picture book, but probably best for ages 8+. You could shape an interesting unit study around researching these monsters.
Bliss, by Kathryn Littlewood, $3.99. The Bliss family runs a popular bakery with a secret: many of the recipes come from the family’s magic “Cookery Booke,” an ancient and powerful resource. Rosemary Bliss is looking after her siblings while her parents go out of town, leaving strict instructions not to open the book without supervision. When mysterious Aunt Lily shows up unexpectedly, the kids don’t think it would be too problematic to make some recipes from the book for her. What could possibly go wrong? This middle grade book is warm, funny, and packed with delicious details.
Guitar Zero, by Gary Marcus, $4.99. You’re never too old, or too young, to learn music. Gary Marcus was nearly 40 when he decided he wanted to learn the guitar despite having little musical experience or skill. Marcus is a scientist, and he describes both his personal musical journey and the science behind how the brain integrates new skills.
The Read-Aloud Handbook, by Jim Trelease, $4.99. Every household should have a copy of this book, a guide to awesome books to read with children. The first half of the book explain why you should read aloud to the children in your life. There are sections on problem solving for reluctant readers or listeners, as well as a section specifically on getting dads involved in the reading process. The second half of the book is a giant compendium of read-aloud books. Each book listed has a short summary, suggested age group, notes about any sensitive topics, and a list of related books. This edition was released in 2013; an updated version was just published, but it is not on sale.
Ivy and Bean Books 1-3, by Annie Barrows, $1.99. These sweet and funny stories are perfect for your new reader. My daughter has moved far beyond this series, but still often picks up one of these books to reread in a single sitting. From my junior reviewer: “I really love these books because the characters are believably drawn with just the right amount of humor. They tie in hilarious and unusual circumstances, including magic sometimes, with things I have experienced. They have a very specific sense of humor, which I share, and I can relate to almost all of the characters.”
The House in Poplar Wood, by K.E. Ormsbee, $1.99. When I saw this book described as “Haunted Mansion meets Stranger Things,” I was totally hooked. The publisher has written a better summary than I possibly could: “For as long as the Vickery twins can remember, Lee and his mother have served Memory, while Felix and his father assist Death. This is the Agreement. But one Halloween, Gretchen Whipple smashes her way into their lives. Her bargain is simple: If the twins help her solve the murder of local girl Essie Hasting, she'll help them break the Agreement. The more the three investigate, however, the more they realize that something's gone terribly wrong in their town. Death is on the loose, and if history repeats itself, Essie's might not be the last murder in Poplar Wood. Simultaneously heartwarming and delightfully spooky, The House in Poplar Wood is a story about a boy's desire to be free, a girl's desire to make a difference, and a family's desire to be together again.”
Emily’s Runaway Imagination, by Beverly Cleary, $4.99. This is a charming but lesser-known middle grade book from beloved children’s author Beverly Cleary. Emily reminds me of Pippi Longstocking without the clearly impossible situations. From the publisher: “Spunky Emily Bartlett lives in an old farmhouse in Pitchfork, Oregon'at a time when automobiles are brand-new inventions and libraries are a luxury few small towns can afford. Her runaway imagination leads her to bleach a horse, hold a very scary sleepover, and feed the hogs an unusual treat. But can she use her lively mind to help bring a library to Pitchfork?”
Tangled in Time: The Portal, by Kathryn Lasky, $1.99. This charming middle grade novel is a time travel story. Rose finds a time portal in her grandmother’s greenhouse that transports her to the the court of Henry VIII. She befriends the young Princess Elizabeth and discovers a mysterious locket that may hold a secret connecting Rose to the Tudor world.
Dear Data, by Giogia Lupi and Stefanie Posavec, $2.99. This book has a fascinating concept: two friends in different countries sent each other a postcard every week for a year. Every week had a theme, and the two friends recorded data about their lives and created a way to represent it visually. The result is more than 100 postcards illustrating the details of their lives. You’ll find this a great discussion starter about ways to visually represent ideas.
Talking Across the Divide: How to Communicate with People You Disagree with and Maybe Even Change the World, by Justin Lee, $4.99. I run a large homeschool co-op, which puts me in the position to get to know a wide variety of people. Books like Talking Across the Divide in invaluable in the current political climate for helping people find ways to connect.
The Mermaid’s Sister, by Carrie Anne Noble, $3.99. 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 Hero’s Guide to Saving Your Kingdom, by Christopher Healy, $1.99. You think you know the classic fairytale stories, but they are usually centered around the princesses. This fun middle grade series focuses on the princes. After the “happily ever after” the princes discover that their kingdoms are in danger, and they set off take on all kinds of mythical monsters. This fun and funny book is the first in a series that your middle-grade reader will love.
The Mind’s Eye, by Oliver Sacks, $4.99. What would your life be like if you lost a fundamental part of your sensory experience? Neuroscientist Oliver Sacks explores what makes us who we are in this collection of profiles. From the concert pianist who loses the ability to read music to the woman who finds herself unable to speak, Sacks deftly recreates the breadth of human experience.
Cut in Half: The Hidden World of Everyday Objects, by Mike 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.)
Art Before Breakfast: A Zillion Ways to be More Creative No Matter How Busy You Are, by Danny Gregory, $2.99. My daughter loves doing art, and fills lots of her spare time making things. I’ve never considered myself an artist and struggle to find time to develop my skills. This book is a great place to start. Danny Gregory has created short, fun activities that take 10 minutes or less. They will encourage you to make art a regular part of your life. This book is a great way to add some art education to your homeschool, or to carve out a bit of time for your own creativity.
50 Inventions That Shaped the Modern Economy, by Tim Harford, $4.99. I love this kind of book, a history through specific objects. Here’s how the publisher describes it: “Fifty Inventions That Shaped the Modern Economy paints an epic picture of change in an intimate way by telling the stories of the tools, people, and ideas that had far-reaching consequences for all of us. From the plough to artificial intelligence, from Gillette’s disposable razor to IKEA’s Billy bookcase, bestselling author and Financial Times columnist Tim Harford recounts each invention’s own curious, surprising, and memorable story.”
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.)
Hamstersaurus Rex, by Tom O’Donnell, $1.99. Is this another creepy book for Halloween? Yes and no. This wild middle school story will entertain and delight while still addressing some tougher emotional issues. From the publisher: “When a mysterious growling hamster appears at the back of his class, Sam knows just what to call him: Hamstersaurus Rex. Sam tries to protect Hammie from an overzealous Hamster Monitor, and from the meanest bully in the history of Horace Hotwater Middle School. The bully isn’t afraid of some weird little class pet. But maybe he should be. Hamstersaurus Rex is no ordinary hamster.”
Kindle Deals for November 12, 2019
Words that don’t translate, the science of the future, and the first in a middle grade series round out today’s Kindle deals.
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.)
BIG NEWS! We now have an email list to send you a reminder each time we post new deals to the website. If you’d like to make sure you never miss a deal, sign up here.
The Strange Case of the Origami Yoda, by Tom Angleberger, $1.99. From Booklist: "Tommy and his friends think that Dwight is a weirdo who’s 'always talking about robots or spiders or something.' In true Dwight fashion, he shows up at school one day brandishing a little origami Yoda finger puppet. The really weird thing is that it doles out very un-Dwight-like bits of wisdom, and the mystery is whether the Yoda is just Dwight talking in a funny voice or if it actually has mystical powers." Hand this to your 4th to 6th grader who loves the Wimpy Kid series.
Lost in Translation: An Illustrated Compendium of Untranslatable Words from Around the World, by Ella Frances Sanders, $4.99. Each language has words that are uniquely specific to their geography or culture. These words don’t translate easily or simply into other languages. This book collects 50 such words from around the world. You’ll learn commuovere (Italian: to be moved to tears) and glas wen (Welsh: a smile that is mocking or sarcastic). Word nerds will be fascinated.
Physics of the Future: How Science Will Shape Human Destiny and Our Daily Lives by the Year 2100, by Michio Kaku, $4.99. What will the world look like in 80 years? Physicist Michio Kaku looks at trends in today’s science research to speculate on the impacts of technology. Kaku discusses the likelihood of hovercars, mind control of electronics, antimatter rockets, and more. The science is rigorous — Kaku interviewed more than 300 scientists in dozens of fields to research book — but it also feels fanciful and fun.
STILL ON SALE
In Conclusion, Don’t Worry About It, by Lauren Graham, $4.99. In 2017, Gilmore Girls actress Lauren Graham was invited to give a commencement address at her former high school. This book is an expansion of that speech. It’s funny and moving and features advice like this, “Whatever path you choose, whatever career you decide to go after, the important thing is that you keep finding joy in what you’re doing, especially when the joy isn’t finding you.”
The Art of the Wasted Day, by Patricia Hampl, $4.99. This is an unusual travelogue. Hampl travels around the world to places where people have retreated for solitude and relaxation. She visits the homes of recluses Gregor Mendel, Michel Montaigne, and others. Interspersed throughout are stories from Hampl’s own life. This is a musing on relaxation, solitude, adventure, and loss.
Home of the Brave: 15 Immigrants Who Shaped U.S. History, by Brooke Khan, $4.99. Learn about the contributions immigrants have made to America, from Madeleine Albright to Carlos Santana. Spanning many eras and realms of achievement, this book will introduce elementary readers to more than a dozen notable Americans. Each biography includes ideas for related activities and additional reading.
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.
Little Free Libraries and Tiny Sheds, by Philip Schmidt, $2.99. Little Free Libraries and Little Free Pantries have popped up all over my area. These little huts provide a place for people to donate and pick up books and/or food items. This book offers detailed instructions for how to create your own! Enjoy a fun family project that will also benefit your larger community!
World of Geekcraft: Step-by-Step Instructions for 25 Super-Cool Craft Projects, by Susan Beal, $1.99. Do you have people in your life who appreciate scifi, fantasy, video games, or science? This is the book for them, or for you. The holiday season is approaching, and this collection of DIY projects is perfect for creating unique gifts.
How to Raise Successful People, by Esther Wojcicki, $2.99. This guide to parenting by a beloved teacher focuses on building independence and resilience in children and young adults. By focusing on TRICK: Trust, Respect, Independence, Collaboration, and Kindness, Wojcicki asserts that we can raise individuals who can change the world.
The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie, by Alan Bradley, $1.99. Readers will fall in love with the precocious 11-year-old heroine of this grown-up mystery novel. Flavia loves chemistry and has a strong interest in poison. When an old acquaintance of her father dies in her yard, it is up to Flavia to find out who killed him and why. Though it may appeal to younger readers, this book was not written for a middle-grade audience.
The Wind in the Willows, by Kenneth Grahame and Grahame Baker-Smith, $3.32. The classic tale of Mole, Rat, and Mr. Toad has been reinvigorated with some truly gorgeous illustrations. These charming adventures are funny and oh-so-very British.
How to Read Nature, by Tristan Gooley, $1.99. I thought I was generally knowledgeable about the natural world, but I learned SO many things from this book! For instance, did you know that moss and algae are most likely to grow on the north side of trees or structures? Tristan Gooley has spent years studying nature and shares all his secrets for way-finding, foraging, and more in the short but densely fact-filled book.
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.”
Chalk, by Bill Thomson, $0.99. This is a picture book with no words, perfect for kids who would like to make up the story on their own. Or, if you have a kid like mine, who really loves words and reading, it may be deeply unsettling. Use your best judgment. Told through gorgeous, realistic illustrations, Chalk is the story of what happens one day when kids’ chalk drawings come to life.
Pride and Prejudice and Zombies, by Jane Austen and Seth Grahame-Smith, $1.99. You’re either going to love this or hate it. Seth Grahame-Smith has expanded Austen’s classic novel to add in scenes of a zombie plague in Meryton. More than 80% of Austen’s original text remains, with modern and gruesome enhancements. This is an over-the-top parody that also seriously addresses some of the interesting details and side plots of the original work. It’s ridiculous, yes, but also fairly entertaining and fodder for an excellent discussion about literary adaptations. If this sounds like your kind of thing, you may also want to check out Sense and Sensibility and Sea Monsters.
Lives in Ruins: Archaeologists and the Seductive Lure of Human Rubble, by Marilyn Johnson, $1.99. Indiana Jones is by far the most famous and exciting archaeologist, running through the jungle digging up bones and fighting off Nazis. But what does the job a real archaeologist look like? Johnson spends time with archaeologists doing work around the world to discover the sweat, cultural discussions, and technology that shape modern research.
Before They Were Authors: Famous Writers as Kids, by Elizabeth Haidle, $2.99. This charming graphic novel tells the stories of many famous authors when they were kids. The backgrounds are varied and interesting, and the illustrations look both cute and historical. This stories will inspire kids and make them consider whether they could become famous writers too.
Other Words For Home, by Jasmine Warga, $1.99. This middle grade story about a Syrian girl moving to Cincinnati is a tough but lovely read. Told in lyrical verse through Jude’s eyes, Other Words For Home traces her path from Aleppo to the U.S., her confusion about the differences in American customs, and her path to how she will fit into her new home. Read this book for a great opportunity to see the world from a new perspective.
A Closed and Common Orbit, by Becky Chambers, $1.99. This is the award-winning second book in a scifi series, but it can be read as a standalone. Chambers writes space opera scifi that really focuses on relationships between the characters. The plot is complicated, so I’ll let the publisher describe it: “Lovelace was once merely a ship’s artificial intelligence. When she wakes up in a new body, following a total system shut-down and reboot, she has no memory of what came before. As Lovelace learns to negotiate the universe and discover who she is, she makes friends with Pepper, an excitable engineer, who’s determined to help her learn and grow. Together, Pepper and Lovey will discover that no matter how vast space is, two people can fill it together.”
Don’t Know Much About Mythology, by Kenneth C. Davis, $2.99. I’m sure my HSL readers know a lot of things about mythology, but this book is pretty comprehensive. Davis looks at myths from around the world. Dig deeper than Greeks and Romans to learn about Druid myths, Incan gods, and more.
Better Than Normal: How What Makes You Different Can Make You Exceptional, by Dale Archer, $4.99. I have not read this, but the concept sounds intriguing. Dr. Archer looks at 8 common behavior traits that can be problematic when extreme to discover the ways they can also be beneficial. He suggests that attentiveness, anxiety, shyness, and other issues lie along a spectrum. Everyone’s personality is shaped by one or more of these traits, and Archer offers ways to harness them to work for you.
Raising a Sensory Smart Child, by Lindsey Biel and Nancy Peske, $4.99. This recently revised book is a great resource for parents of children with sensory sensitivities. The authors provide detailed information on the science behind sensory issues, then offer practical tips for dealing with the challenges that can come with sensory avoidance or seeking. Practical suggestions about the learning environment will be helpful to homeschoolers and those trying to partner with a school to meet a child’s needs.
A History of the World in 100 Objects, by Neil MacGregor, $4.99. This book is fantastic! I own the giant doorstop that is the print edition, and it sits in my living room at all times as a handy reference or exploration guide. The title is fairly descriptive. MacGregor has gathered a collection of artifacts from all over the world that illustrate some major stops in the human journey of innovation. From early jewelry to cookware to the modern credit card, each object’s significance is carefully described. This is the kind of book you can read sequentially or dip into when curious about a time period or geographic area.
Lord of the Flies, by William Golding, $1.99. This is a classic of coming-of-age literature found on many high school curricula. A group of boys is stranded on an island after a school trip gone horribly wrong. With no adults to guide them, they must govern themselves and find a way off of the island. They have some remarkable successes and some very memorable failures. Read this book to start a discussion of human nature.
How to Be a Happier Parent, by KJ Dell’Antonia, $4.99. I’ve really enjoyed Dell’Antonia’s New York Times parenting column. This book collects and connects some of the recurring themes about how to find a greater sense of happiness and peace through the parenting journey. From the publisher: In this optimistic, solution-packed book, KJ asks: How can we change our family life so that it is full of the joy we'd always hoped for? Drawing from the latest research and interviews with families, KJ discovers that it's possible to do more by doing less, and make our family life a refuge and pleasure, rather than another stress point in a hectic day. She focuses on nine common problem spots that cause parents the most grief, explores why they are hard, and offers small, doable, sometimes surprising steps you can take to make them better.
Moby-Duck: The True Story of 28,800 Bath Toys Lost at Sea & of the Beachcombers, Oceanographers, Environmentalists & Fools Including the Author Who Went in Search of Them, by Donovan Hohn, $4.99. A few years ago, an entire shipping container full of rubber ducks went missing in transit. The ducks were carried along by ocean currents and began showing up on beaches around the world. Donovan Hohn decided to track down some ducks and find out more about the natural forces behind the story. He learned way more than he expected. This book follows him on what became an epic adventure into ocean currents, shipping conglomerates, global economics, and more.
The Savage Garden: Cultivating Carnivorous Plants, by Peter D’Amato, $4.99. No, we are not talking about the ‘90s band, we are talking about plants that eat insects and other small creatures. My kid has been fascinated by meat-eating plants for years; they go against the basic biology we teach small children. This book describes in great detail the most common types of carnivorous plants and how you might grow them at home. With a chapter called “Other Savage Plants from the Demented Mind of Mother Nature,” this book feels perfect for some spooky fall reading. The well-researched plant descriptions and beautiful photos make this book an interesting pick even if you have no intention of growing your own carnivorous plants.
Catherine, Called Birdy, by Karen Cushman, $3.99. From our Great Epistolary Novels list: It’s problematic, of course, to pretend that we can understand what might have gone on in the head 14th century girl, but Cushman makes a solid effort here, and this novel — which takes the form of Catherine’s journal — paints a fascinating (and well researched) picture of medieval life. Catherine doesn’t have a lot of agency: She’s going to have to do what her father says, including marrying the man he’s picked out for her, however much she might rebel against the idea in her diary. That rebelling feels a little anachronistic, but I’m not sure a middle grades reader would be able to identify with Catherine at all without it so I think it’s an understandable conceit. If you’re studying the Middle Ages any time soon, you will definitely want to have this one on your list.
Daughters of the Night Sky, by Aimie K. Runyan, $4.99. This novel highlights a lesser known story of WWI, that of the Russian Night Witches. This all female regiment of pilots terrorizes the Nazis, flying dangerous but crucial missions. Runyan takes readers along on the harrowing flights, then considers how life must change once the war is over.
Ingredients: A Visual Exploration of 75 Additives and 25 Food Products, by Dwight Eschliman and Steve Ettinger, $0.99. What is really in the food we eat? What is caramel color, anyway? What does xanthan gum actually do, and where does it come from? This fascinating collaboration between a photographer and a science writer will answer all of these questions and more. They break down all the ingredients in more than two dozen common foods to explain how all the pieces fit together. You may never look at Cool Ranch Doritos the same way, but you’ll enjoy learning about the process!
Monsters You Should Know, by Emma Sancartier, $1.99. This is the cutest book about horrifying monsters that you will ever see. Truly creepy monsters from folklore around the world are illustrated in a scary but still somehow charming style. This is a picture book, but probably best for ages 8+. You could shape an interesting unit study around researching these monsters.
Bliss, by Kathryn Littlewood, $3.99. The Bliss family runs a popular bakery with a secret: many of the recipes come from the family’s magic “Cookery Booke,” an ancient and powerful resource. Rosemary Bliss is looking after her siblings while her parents go out of town, leaving strict instructions not to open the book without supervision. When mysterious Aunt Lily shows up unexpectedly, the kids don’t think it would be too problematic to make some recipes from the book for her. What could possibly go wrong? This middle grade book is warm, funny, and packed with delicious details.
Guitar Zero, by Gary Marcus, $4.99. You’re never too old, or too young, to learn music. Gary Marcus was nearly 40 when he decided he wanted to learn the guitar despite having little musical experience or skill. Marcus is a scientist, and he describes both his personal musical journey and the science behind how the brain integrates new skills.
The Read-Aloud Handbook, by Jim Trelease, $4.99. Every household should have a copy of this book, a guide to awesome books to read with children. The first half of the book explain why you should read aloud to the children in your life. There are sections on problem solving for reluctant readers or listeners, as well as a section specifically on getting dads involved in the reading process. The second half of the book is a giant compendium of read-aloud books. Each book listed has a short summary, suggested age group, notes about any sensitive topics, and a list of related books. This edition was released in 2013; an updated version was just published, but it is not on sale.
Ivy and Bean Books 1-3, by Annie Barrows, $1.99. These sweet and funny stories are perfect for your new reader. My daughter has moved far beyond this series, but still often picks up one of these books to reread in a single sitting. From my junior reviewer: “I really love these books because the characters are believably drawn with just the right amount of humor. They tie in hilarious and unusual circumstances, including magic sometimes, with things I have experienced. They have a very specific sense of humor, which I share, and I can relate to almost all of the characters.”
The House in Poplar Wood, by K.E. Ormsbee, $1.99. When I saw this book described as “Haunted Mansion meets Stranger Things,” I was totally hooked. The publisher has written a better summary than I possibly could: “For as long as the Vickery twins can remember, Lee and his mother have served Memory, while Felix and his father assist Death. This is the Agreement. But one Halloween, Gretchen Whipple smashes her way into their lives. Her bargain is simple: If the twins help her solve the murder of local girl Essie Hasting, she'll help them break the Agreement. The more the three investigate, however, the more they realize that something's gone terribly wrong in their town. Death is on the loose, and if history repeats itself, Essie's might not be the last murder in Poplar Wood. Simultaneously heartwarming and delightfully spooky, The House in Poplar Wood is a story about a boy's desire to be free, a girl's desire to make a difference, and a family's desire to be together again.”
Emily’s Runaway Imagination, by Beverly Cleary, $4.99. This is a charming but lesser-known middle grade book from beloved children’s author Beverly Cleary. Emily reminds me of Pippi Longstocking without the clearly impossible situations. From the publisher: “Spunky Emily Bartlett lives in an old farmhouse in Pitchfork, Oregon'at a time when automobiles are brand-new inventions and libraries are a luxury few small towns can afford. Her runaway imagination leads her to bleach a horse, hold a very scary sleepover, and feed the hogs an unusual treat. But can she use her lively mind to help bring a library to Pitchfork?”
Tangled in Time: The Portal, by Kathryn Lasky, $1.99. This charming middle grade novel is a time travel story. Rose finds a time portal in her grandmother’s greenhouse that transports her to the the court of Henry VIII. She befriends the young Princess Elizabeth and discovers a mysterious locket that may hold a secret connecting Rose to the Tudor world.
Dear Data, by Giogia Lupi and Stefanie Posavec, $2.99. This book has a fascinating concept: two friends in different countries sent each other a postcard every week for a year. Every week had a theme, and the two friends recorded data about their lives and created a way to represent it visually. The result is more than 100 postcards illustrating the details of their lives. You’ll find this a great discussion starter about ways to visually represent ideas.
Talking Across the Divide: How to Communicate with People You Disagree with and Maybe Even Change the World, by Justin Lee, $4.99. I run a large homeschool co-op, which puts me in the position to get to know a wide variety of people. Books like Talking Across the Divide in invaluable in the current political climate for helping people find ways to connect.
The Mermaid’s Sister, by Carrie Anne Noble, $3.99. 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 Hero’s Guide to Saving Your Kingdom, by Christopher Healy, $1.99. You think you know the classic fairytale stories, but they are usually centered around the princesses. This fun middle grade series focuses on the princes. After the “happily ever after” the princes discover that their kingdoms are in danger, and they set off take on all kinds of mythical monsters. This fun and funny book is the first in a series that your middle-grade reader will love.
The Mind’s Eye, by Oliver Sacks, $4.99. What would your life be like if you lost a fundamental part of your sensory experience? Neuroscientist Oliver Sacks explores what makes us who we are in this collection of profiles. From the concert pianist who loses the ability to read music to the woman who finds herself unable to speak, Sacks deftly recreates the breadth of human experience.
Cut in Half: The Hidden World of Everyday Objects, by Mike 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.)
Art Before Breakfast: A Zillion Ways to be More Creative No Matter How Busy You Are, by Danny Gregory, $2.99. My daughter loves doing art, and fills lots of her spare time making things. I’ve never considered myself an artist and struggle to find time to develop my skills. This book is a great place to start. Danny Gregory has created short, fun activities that take 10 minutes or less. They will encourage you to make art a regular part of your life. This book is a great way to add some art education to your homeschool, or to carve out a bit of time for your own creativity.
50 Inventions That Shaped the Modern Economy, by Tim Harford, $4.99. I love this kind of book, a history through specific objects. Here’s how the publisher describes it: “Fifty Inventions That Shaped the Modern Economy paints an epic picture of change in an intimate way by telling the stories of the tools, people, and ideas that had far-reaching consequences for all of us. From the plough to artificial intelligence, from Gillette’s disposable razor to IKEA’s Billy bookcase, bestselling author and Financial Times columnist Tim Harford recounts each invention’s own curious, surprising, and memorable story.”
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.)
Hamstersaurus Rex, by Tom O’Donnell, $1.99. Is this another creepy book for Halloween? Yes and no. This wild middle school story will entertain and delight while still addressing some tougher emotional issues. From the publisher: “When a mysterious growling hamster appears at the back of his class, Sam knows just what to call him: Hamstersaurus Rex. Sam tries to protect Hammie from an overzealous Hamster Monitor, and from the meanest bully in the history of Horace Hotwater Middle School. The bully isn’t afraid of some weird little class pet. But maybe he should be. Hamstersaurus Rex is no ordinary hamster.”
Kindle Deals for November 11, 2019
Great advice, the joy of relaxation, and famous immigrants in today’s Kindle deals!
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.)
BIG NEWS! We now have an email list to send you a reminder each time we post new deals to the website. If you’d like to make sure you never miss a deal, sign up here.
In Conclusion, Don’t Worry About It, by Lauren Graham, $4.99. In 2017, Gilmore Girls actress Lauren Graham was invited to give a commencement address at her former high school. This book is an expansion of that speech. It’s funny and moving and features advice like this, “Whatever path you choose, whatever career you decide to go after, the important thing is that you keep finding joy in what you’re doing, especially when the joy isn’t finding you.”
The Art of the Wasted Day, by Patricia Hampl, $4.99. This is an unusual travelogue. Hampl travels around the world to places where people have retreated for solitude and relaxation. She visits the homes of recluses Gregor Mendel, Michel Montaigne, and others. Interspersed throughout are stories from Hampl’s own life. This is a musing on relaxation, solitude, adventure, and loss.
Home of the Brave: 15 Immigrants Who Shaped U.S. History, by Brooke Khan, $4.99. Learn about the contributions immigrants have made to America, from Madeleine Albright to Carlos Santana. Spanning many eras and realms of achievement, this book will introduce elementary readers to more than a dozen notable Americans. Each biography includes ideas for related activities and additional reading.
STILL ON SALE
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.
Little Free Libraries and Tiny Sheds, by Philip Schmidt, $2.99. Little Free Libraries and Little Free Pantries have popped up all over my area. These little huts provide a place for people to donate and pick up books and/or food items. This book offers detailed instructions for how to create your own! Enjoy a fun family project that will also benefit your larger community!
World of Geekcraft: Step-by-Step Instructions for 25 Super-Cool Craft Projects, by Susan Beal, $1.99. Do you have people in your life who appreciate scifi, fantasy, video games, or science? This is the book for them, or for you. The holiday season is approaching, and this collection of DIY projects is perfect for creating unique gifts.
How to Raise Successful People, by Esther Wojcicki, $2.99. This guide to parenting by a beloved teacher focuses on building independence and resilience in children and young adults. By focusing on TRICK: Trust, Respect, Independence, Collaboration, and Kindness, Wojcicki asserts that we can raise individuals who can change the world.
The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie, by Alan Bradley, $1.99. Readers will fall in love with the precocious 11-year-old heroine of this grown-up mystery novel. Flavia loves chemistry and has a strong interest in poison. When an old acquaintance of her father dies in her yard, it is up to Flavia to find out who killed him and why. Though it may appeal to younger readers, this book was not written for a middle-grade audience.
The Wind in the Willows, by Kenneth Grahame and Grahame Baker-Smith, $3.32. The classic tale of Mole, Rat, and Mr. Toad has been reinvigorated with some truly gorgeous illustrations. These charming adventures are funny and oh-so-very British.
How to Read Nature, by Tristan Gooley, $1.99. I thought I was generally knowledgeable about the natural world, but I learned SO many things from this book! For instance, did you know that moss and algae are most likely to grow on the north side of trees or structures? Tristan Gooley has spent years studying nature and shares all his secrets for way-finding, foraging, and more in the short but densely fact-filled book.
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.”
Chalk, by Bill Thomson, $0.99. This is a picture book with no words, perfect for kids who would like to make up the story on their own. Or, if you have a kid like mine, who really loves words and reading, it may be deeply unsettling. Use your best judgment. Told through gorgeous, realistic illustrations, Chalk is the story of what happens one day when kids’ chalk drawings come to life.
Pride and Prejudice and Zombies, by Jane Austen and Seth Grahame-Smith, $1.99. You’re either going to love this or hate it. Seth Grahame-Smith has expanded Austen’s classic novel to add in scenes of a zombie plague in Meryton. More than 80% of Austen’s original text remains, with modern and gruesome enhancements. This is an over-the-top parody that also seriously addresses some of the interesting details and side plots of the original work. It’s ridiculous, yes, but also fairly entertaining and fodder for an excellent discussion about literary adaptations. If this sounds like your kind of thing, you may also want to check out Sense and Sensibility and Sea Monsters.
Lives in Ruins: Archaeologists and the Seductive Lure of Human Rubble, by Marilyn Johnson, $1.99. Indiana Jones is by far the most famous and exciting archaeologist, running through the jungle digging up bones and fighting off Nazis. But what does the job a real archaeologist look like? Johnson spends time with archaeologists doing work around the world to discover the sweat, cultural discussions, and technology that shape modern research.
Before They Were Authors: Famous Writers as Kids, by Elizabeth Haidle, $2.99. This charming graphic novel tells the stories of many famous authors when they were kids. The backgrounds are varied and interesting, and the illustrations look both cute and historical. This stories will inspire kids and make them consider whether they could become famous writers too.
Other Words For Home, by Jasmine Warga, $1.99. This middle grade story about a Syrian girl moving to Cincinnati is a tough but lovely read. Told in lyrical verse through Jude’s eyes, Other Words For Home traces her path from Aleppo to the U.S., her confusion about the differences in American customs, and her path to how she will fit into her new home. Read this book for a great opportunity to see the world from a new perspective.
A Closed and Common Orbit, by Becky Chambers, $1.99. This is the award-winning second book in a scifi series, but it can be read as a standalone. Chambers writes space opera scifi that really focuses on relationships between the characters. The plot is complicated, so I’ll let the publisher describe it: “Lovelace was once merely a ship’s artificial intelligence. When she wakes up in a new body, following a total system shut-down and reboot, she has no memory of what came before. As Lovelace learns to negotiate the universe and discover who she is, she makes friends with Pepper, an excitable engineer, who’s determined to help her learn and grow. Together, Pepper and Lovey will discover that no matter how vast space is, two people can fill it together.”
Don’t Know Much About Mythology, by Kenneth C. Davis, $2.99. I’m sure my HSL readers know a lot of things about mythology, but this book is pretty comprehensive. Davis looks at myths from around the world. Dig deeper than Greeks and Romans to learn about Druid myths, Incan gods, and more.
Better Than Normal: How What Makes You Different Can Make You Exceptional, by Dale Archer, $4.99. I have not read this, but the concept sounds intriguing. Dr. Archer looks at 8 common behavior traits that can be problematic when extreme to discover the ways they can also be beneficial. He suggests that attentiveness, anxiety, shyness, and other issues lie along a spectrum. Everyone’s personality is shaped by one or more of these traits, and Archer offers ways to harness them to work for you.
Raising a Sensory Smart Child, by Lindsey Biel and Nancy Peske, $4.99. This recently revised book is a great resource for parents of children with sensory sensitivities. The authors provide detailed information on the science behind sensory issues, then offer practical tips for dealing with the challenges that can come with sensory avoidance or seeking. Practical suggestions about the learning environment will be helpful to homeschoolers and those trying to partner with a school to meet a child’s needs.
A History of the World in 100 Objects, by Neil MacGregor, $4.99. This book is fantastic! I own the giant doorstop that is the print edition, and it sits in my living room at all times as a handy reference or exploration guide. The title is fairly descriptive. MacGregor has gathered a collection of artifacts from all over the world that illustrate some major stops in the human journey of innovation. From early jewelry to cookware to the modern credit card, each object’s significance is carefully described. This is the kind of book you can read sequentially or dip into when curious about a time period or geographic area.
Lord of the Flies, by William Golding, $1.99. This is a classic of coming-of-age literature found on many high school curricula. A group of boys is stranded on an island after a school trip gone horribly wrong. With no adults to guide them, they must govern themselves and find a way off of the island. They have some remarkable successes and some very memorable failures. Read this book to start a discussion of human nature.
How to Be a Happier Parent, by KJ Dell’Antonia, $4.99. I’ve really enjoyed Dell’Antonia’s New York Times parenting column. This book collects and connects some of the recurring themes about how to find a greater sense of happiness and peace through the parenting journey. From the publisher: In this optimistic, solution-packed book, KJ asks: How can we change our family life so that it is full of the joy we'd always hoped for? Drawing from the latest research and interviews with families, KJ discovers that it's possible to do more by doing less, and make our family life a refuge and pleasure, rather than another stress point in a hectic day. She focuses on nine common problem spots that cause parents the most grief, explores why they are hard, and offers small, doable, sometimes surprising steps you can take to make them better.
Moby-Duck: The True Story of 28,800 Bath Toys Lost at Sea & of the Beachcombers, Oceanographers, Environmentalists & Fools Including the Author Who Went in Search of Them, by Donovan Hohn, $4.99. A few years ago, an entire shipping container full of rubber ducks went missing in transit. The ducks were carried along by ocean currents and began showing up on beaches around the world. Donovan Hohn decided to track down some ducks and find out more about the natural forces behind the story. He learned way more than he expected. This book follows him on what became an epic adventure into ocean currents, shipping conglomerates, global economics, and more.
The Savage Garden: Cultivating Carnivorous Plants, by Peter D’Amato, $4.99. No, we are not talking about the ‘90s band, we are talking about plants that eat insects and other small creatures. My kid has been fascinated by meat-eating plants for years; they go against the basic biology we teach small children. This book describes in great detail the most common types of carnivorous plants and how you might grow them at home. With a chapter called “Other Savage Plants from the Demented Mind of Mother Nature,” this book feels perfect for some spooky fall reading. The well-researched plant descriptions and beautiful photos make this book an interesting pick even if you have no intention of growing your own carnivorous plants.
Catherine, Called Birdy, by Karen Cushman, $3.99. From our Great Epistolary Novels list: It’s problematic, of course, to pretend that we can understand what might have gone on in the head 14th century girl, but Cushman makes a solid effort here, and this novel — which takes the form of Catherine’s journal — paints a fascinating (and well researched) picture of medieval life. Catherine doesn’t have a lot of agency: She’s going to have to do what her father says, including marrying the man he’s picked out for her, however much she might rebel against the idea in her diary. That rebelling feels a little anachronistic, but I’m not sure a middle grades reader would be able to identify with Catherine at all without it so I think it’s an understandable conceit. If you’re studying the Middle Ages any time soon, you will definitely want to have this one on your list.
Daughters of the Night Sky, by Aimie K. Runyan, $4.99. This novel highlights a lesser known story of WWI, that of the Russian Night Witches. This all female regiment of pilots terrorizes the Nazis, flying dangerous but crucial missions. Runyan takes readers along on the harrowing flights, then considers how life must change once the war is over.
Ingredients: A Visual Exploration of 75 Additives and 25 Food Products, by Dwight Eschliman and Steve Ettinger, $0.99. What is really in the food we eat? What is caramel color, anyway? What does xanthan gum actually do, and where does it come from? This fascinating collaboration between a photographer and a science writer will answer all of these questions and more. They break down all the ingredients in more than two dozen common foods to explain how all the pieces fit together. You may never look at Cool Ranch Doritos the same way, but you’ll enjoy learning about the process!
Monsters You Should Know, by Emma Sancartier, $1.99. This is the cutest book about horrifying monsters that you will ever see. Truly creepy monsters from folklore around the world are illustrated in a scary but still somehow charming style. This is a picture book, but probably best for ages 8+. You could shape an interesting unit study around researching these monsters.
Bliss, by Kathryn Littlewood, $3.99. The Bliss family runs a popular bakery with a secret: many of the recipes come from the family’s magic “Cookery Booke,” an ancient and powerful resource. Rosemary Bliss is looking after her siblings while her parents go out of town, leaving strict instructions not to open the book without supervision. When mysterious Aunt Lily shows up unexpectedly, the kids don’t think it would be too problematic to make some recipes from the book for her. What could possibly go wrong? This middle grade book is warm, funny, and packed with delicious details.
Guitar Zero, by Gary Marcus, $4.99. You’re never too old, or too young, to learn music. Gary Marcus was nearly 40 when he decided he wanted to learn the guitar despite having little musical experience or skill. Marcus is a scientist, and he describes both his personal musical journey and the science behind how the brain integrates new skills.
The Read-Aloud Handbook, by Jim Trelease, $4.99. Every household should have a copy of this book, a guide to awesome books to read with children. The first half of the book explain why you should read aloud to the children in your life. There are sections on problem solving for reluctant readers or listeners, as well as a section specifically on getting dads involved in the reading process. The second half of the book is a giant compendium of read-aloud books. Each book listed has a short summary, suggested age group, notes about any sensitive topics, and a list of related books. This edition was released in 2013; an updated version was just published, but it is not on sale.
Ivy and Bean Books 1-3, by Annie Barrows, $1.99. These sweet and funny stories are perfect for your new reader. My daughter has moved far beyond this series, but still often picks up one of these books to reread in a single sitting. From my junior reviewer: “I really love these books because the characters are believably drawn with just the right amount of humor. They tie in hilarious and unusual circumstances, including magic sometimes, with things I have experienced. They have a very specific sense of humor, which I share, and I can relate to almost all of the characters.”
The House in Poplar Wood, by K.E. Ormsbee, $1.99. When I saw this book described as “Haunted Mansion meets Stranger Things,” I was totally hooked. The publisher has written a better summary than I possibly could: “For as long as the Vickery twins can remember, Lee and his mother have served Memory, while Felix and his father assist Death. This is the Agreement. But one Halloween, Gretchen Whipple smashes her way into their lives. Her bargain is simple: If the twins help her solve the murder of local girl Essie Hasting, she'll help them break the Agreement. The more the three investigate, however, the more they realize that something's gone terribly wrong in their town. Death is on the loose, and if history repeats itself, Essie's might not be the last murder in Poplar Wood. Simultaneously heartwarming and delightfully spooky, The House in Poplar Wood is a story about a boy's desire to be free, a girl's desire to make a difference, and a family's desire to be together again.”
Emily’s Runaway Imagination, by Beverly Cleary, $4.99. This is a charming but lesser-known middle grade book from beloved children’s author Beverly Cleary. Emily reminds me of Pippi Longstocking without the clearly impossible situations. From the publisher: “Spunky Emily Bartlett lives in an old farmhouse in Pitchfork, Oregon'at a time when automobiles are brand-new inventions and libraries are a luxury few small towns can afford. Her runaway imagination leads her to bleach a horse, hold a very scary sleepover, and feed the hogs an unusual treat. But can she use her lively mind to help bring a library to Pitchfork?”
Tangled in Time: The Portal, by Kathryn Lasky, $1.99. This charming middle grade novel is a time travel story. Rose finds a time portal in her grandmother’s greenhouse that transports her to the the court of Henry VIII. She befriends the young Princess Elizabeth and discovers a mysterious locket that may hold a secret connecting Rose to the Tudor world.
Dear Data, by Giogia Lupi and Stefanie Posavec, $2.99. This book has a fascinating concept: two friends in different countries sent each other a postcard every week for a year. Every week had a theme, and the two friends recorded data about their lives and created a way to represent it visually. The result is more than 100 postcards illustrating the details of their lives. You’ll find this a great discussion starter about ways to visually represent ideas.
Talking Across the Divide: How to Communicate with People You Disagree with and Maybe Even Change the World, by Justin Lee, $4.99. I run a large homeschool co-op, which puts me in the position to get to know a wide variety of people. Books like Talking Across the Divide in invaluable in the current political climate for helping people find ways to connect.
The Mermaid’s Sister, by Carrie Anne Noble, $3.99. 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 Hero’s Guide to Saving Your Kingdom, by Christopher Healy, $1.99. You think you know the classic fairytale stories, but they are usually centered around the princesses. This fun middle grade series focuses on the princes. After the “happily ever after” the princes discover that their kingdoms are in danger, and they set off take on all kinds of mythical monsters. This fun and funny book is the first in a series that your middle-grade reader will love.
The Mind’s Eye, by Oliver Sacks, $4.99. What would your life be like if you lost a fundamental part of your sensory experience? Neuroscientist Oliver Sacks explores what makes us who we are in this collection of profiles. From the concert pianist who loses the ability to read music to the woman who finds herself unable to speak, Sacks deftly recreates the breadth of human experience.
Cut in Half: The Hidden World of Everyday Objects, by Mike 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.)
Art Before Breakfast: A Zillion Ways to be More Creative No Matter How Busy You Are, by Danny Gregory, $2.99. My daughter loves doing art, and fills lots of her spare time making things. I’ve never considered myself an artist and struggle to find time to develop my skills. This book is a great place to start. Danny Gregory has created short, fun activities that take 10 minutes or less. They will encourage you to make art a regular part of your life. This book is a great way to add some art education to your homeschool, or to carve out a bit of time for your own creativity.
50 Inventions That Shaped the Modern Economy, by Tim Harford, $4.99. I love this kind of book, a history through specific objects. Here’s how the publisher describes it: “Fifty Inventions That Shaped the Modern Economy paints an epic picture of change in an intimate way by telling the stories of the tools, people, and ideas that had far-reaching consequences for all of us. From the plough to artificial intelligence, from Gillette’s disposable razor to IKEA’s Billy bookcase, bestselling author and Financial Times columnist Tim Harford recounts each invention’s own curious, surprising, and memorable story.”
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.)
Hamstersaurus Rex, by Tom O’Donnell, $1.99. Is this another creepy book for Halloween? Yes and no. This wild middle school story will entertain and delight while still addressing some tougher emotional issues. From the publisher: “When a mysterious growling hamster appears at the back of his class, Sam knows just what to call him: Hamstersaurus Rex. Sam tries to protect Hammie from an overzealous Hamster Monitor, and from the meanest bully in the history of Horace Hotwater Middle School. The bully isn’t afraid of some weird little class pet. But maybe he should be. Hamstersaurus Rex is no ordinary hamster.”
Kindle Deals for November 8, 2019
Geeky crafts, tiny libraries, and medical discoveries in today’s Kindle deals!
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.)
BIG NEWS! We now have an email list to send you a reminder each time we post new deals to the website. If you’d like to make sure you never miss a deal, sign up here.
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.
Little Free Libraries and Tiny Sheds, by Philip Schmidt, $2.99. Little Free Libraries and Little Free Pantries have popped up all over my area. These little huts provide a place for people to donate and pick up books and/or food items. This book offers detailed instructions for how to create your own! Enjoy a fun family project that will also benefit your larger community!
World of Geekcraft: Step-by-Step Instructions for 25 Super-Cool Craft Projects, by Susan Beal, $1.99. Do you have people in your life who appreciate scifi, fantasy, video games, or science? This is the book for them, or for you. The holiday season is approaching, and this collection of DIY projects is perfect for creating unique gifts.
STILL ON SALE
How to Raise Successful People, by Esther Wojcicki, $2.99. This guide to parenting by a beloved teacher focuses on building independence and resilience in children and young adults. By focusing on TRICK: Trust, Respect, Independence, Collaboration, and Kindness, Wojcicki asserts that we can raise individuals who can change the world.
The Card Catalog: Books, Cards, and Literary Treasures, by The Library of Congress, $3.99. Do you still have the sensory memory of flicking through stack after stack of cards trying to find the information you needed? This book is a tribute to the beloved card catalog system that was the glue holding libraries together for years.
The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie, by Alan Bradley, $1.99. Readers will fall in love with the precocious 11-year-old heroine of this grown-up mystery novel. Flavia loves chemistry and has a strong interest in poison. When an old acquaintance of her father dies in her yard, it is up to Flavia to find out who killed him and why. Though it may appeal to younger readers, this book was not written for a middle-grade audience.
The Road to Middle-Earth: How J.R.R. Tolkein Created a New Mythology, by Tom Shippey, $2.99. From the publisher: “From meditations on Tolkien's inspiration to analyses of the influences of his professional background, The Road to Middle-earth takes a closer look at the novels that made Tolkien a legend. Shippey also illuminates Tolkien's more difficult works set in the same world, including The Silmarillion, Unfinished Tales, and the myth cycle, and examines the remarkable twelve-volume History of Middle-earth, written by J.R.R.'s son Christopher Tolkien.”
The Wind in the Willows, by Kenneth Grahame and Grahame Baker-Smith, $3.32. The classic tale of Mole, Rat, and Mr. Toad has been reinvigorated with some truly gorgeous illustrations. These charming adventures are funny and oh-so-very British.
The Global Economy as You’ve Never Seen It: 99 Ingenious Infographics That Put It All Together, by Thomas Ramge and Jan Schwochow, $3.99. Break out the tablet or computer, because these complicated infographics deserve a big screen! The inventive illustrations explain everything from economic theory to global migration to trade agreements.
How to Read Nature, by Tristan Gooley, $1.99. I thought I was generally knowledgeable about the natural world, but I learned SO many things from this book! For instance, did you know that moss and algae are most likely to grow on the north side of trees or structures? Tristan Gooley has spent years studying nature and shares all his secrets for way-finding, foraging, and more in the short but densely fact-filled book.
Girl Sleuth: Nancy Drew and the Women Who Created Her, by Melanie Rehak, $3.99. Nancy Drew has been reinvented for many generations of fans, so odds are pretty good that she was part of your adolescent reading life. This book is a fascinating look at her origin and evolution.
Black Women in Science, by Kimberly Brown Pellum, $0.99. This delightful collection of biographies profiles scientists in many fields. Some are more famous than others, but all have interesting and inspirational stories to discover. This book will encourage your middle grade reader to envision a life in science.
What I Know Now, edited by Ellyn Spragins, $2.99. Do you ever wish you could go back and give your younger self some advice? This book is based on that premise. Forty women who have accomplished great things have written letters to their younger selves. Each has unique insight. If you’re familiar with the woman writing, the letter can offer interesting background, but the lessons are broadly applicable.
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.”
Chalk, by Bill Thomson, $0.99. This is a picture book with no words, perfect for kids who would like to make up the story on their own. Or, if you have a kid like mine, who really loves words and reading, it may be deeply unsettling. Use your best judgment. Told through gorgeous, realistic illustrations, Chalk is the story of what happens one day when kids’ chalk drawings come to life.
Pride and Prejudice and Zombies, by Jane Austen and Seth Grahame-Smith, $1.99. You’re either going to love this or hate it. Seth Grahame-Smith has expanded Austen’s classic novel to add in scenes of a zombie plague in Meryton. More than 80% of Austen’s original text remains, with modern and gruesome enhancements. This is an over-the-top parody that also seriously addresses some of the interesting details and side plots of the original work. It’s ridiculous, yes, but also fairly entertaining and fodder for an excellent discussion about literary adaptations. If this sounds like your kind of thing, you may also want to check out Sense and Sensibility and Sea Monsters.
Lives in Ruins: Archaeologists and the Seductive Lure of Human Rubble, by Marilyn Johnson, $1.99. Indiana Jones is by far the most famous and exciting archaeologist, running through the jungle digging up bones and fighting off Nazis. But what does the job a real archaeologist look like? Johnson spends time with archaeologists doing work around the world to discover the sweat, cultural discussions, and technology that shape modern research.
Before They Were Authors: Famous Writers as Kids, by Elizabeth Haidle, $2.99. This charming graphic novel tells the stories of many famous authors when they were kids. The backgrounds are varied and interesting, and the illustrations look both cute and historical. This stories will inspire kids and make them consider whether they could become famous writers too.
Other Words For Home, by Jasmine Warga, $1.99. This middle grade story about a Syrian girl moving to Cincinnati is a tough but lovely read. Told in lyrical verse through Jude’s eyes, Other Words For Home traces her path from Aleppo to the U.S., her confusion about the differences in American customs, and her path to how she will fit into her new home. Read this book for a great opportunity to see the world from a new perspective.
A Closed and Common Orbit, by Becky Chambers, $1.99. This is the award-winning second book in a scifi series, but it can be read as a standalone. Chambers writes space opera scifi that really focuses on relationships between the characters. The plot is complicated, so I’ll let the publisher describe it: “Lovelace was once merely a ship’s artificial intelligence. When she wakes up in a new body, following a total system shut-down and reboot, she has no memory of what came before. As Lovelace learns to negotiate the universe and discover who she is, she makes friends with Pepper, an excitable engineer, who’s determined to help her learn and grow. Together, Pepper and Lovey will discover that no matter how vast space is, two people can fill it together.”
Don’t Know Much About Mythology, by Kenneth C. Davis, $2.99. I’m sure my HSL readers know a lot of things about mythology, but this book is pretty comprehensive. Davis looks at myths from around the world. Dig deeper than Greeks and Romans to learn about Druid myths, Incan gods, and more.
Better Than Normal: How What Makes You Different Can Make You Exceptional, by Dale Archer, $4.99. I have not read this, but the concept sounds intriguing. Dr. Archer looks at 8 common behavior traits that can be problematic when extreme to discover the ways they can also be beneficial. He suggests that attentiveness, anxiety, shyness, and other issues lie along a spectrum. Everyone’s personality is shaped by one or more of these traits, and Archer offers ways to harness them to work for you.
Raising a Sensory Smart Child, by Lindsey Biel and Nancy Peske, $4.99. This recently revised book is a great resource for parents of children with sensory sensitivities. The authors provide detailed information on the science behind sensory issues, then offer practical tips for dealing with the challenges that can come with sensory avoidance or seeking. Practical suggestions about the learning environment will be helpful to homeschoolers and those trying to partner with a school to meet a child’s needs.
A History of the World in 100 Objects, by Neil MacGregor, $4.99. This book is fantastic! I own the giant doorstop that is the print edition, and it sits in my living room at all times as a handy reference or exploration guide. The title is fairly descriptive. MacGregor has gathered a collection of artifacts from all over the world that illustrate some major stops in the human journey of innovation. From early jewelry to cookware to the modern credit card, each object’s significance is carefully described. This is the kind of book you can read sequentially or dip into when curious about a time period or geographic area.
Lord of the Flies, by William Golding, $1.99. This is a classic of coming-of-age literature found on many high school curricula. A group of boys is stranded on an island after a school trip gone horribly wrong. With no adults to guide them, they must govern themselves and find a way off of the island. They have some remarkable successes and some very memorable failures. Read this book to start a discussion of human nature.
How to Be a Happier Parent, by KJ Dell’Antonia, $4.99. I’ve really enjoyed Dell’Antonia’s New York Times parenting column. This book collects and connects some of the recurring themes about how to find a greater sense of happiness and peace through the parenting journey. From the publisher: In this optimistic, solution-packed book, KJ asks: How can we change our family life so that it is full of the joy we'd always hoped for? Drawing from the latest research and interviews with families, KJ discovers that it's possible to do more by doing less, and make our family life a refuge and pleasure, rather than another stress point in a hectic day. She focuses on nine common problem spots that cause parents the most grief, explores why they are hard, and offers small, doable, sometimes surprising steps you can take to make them better.
Moby-Duck: The True Story of 28,800 Bath Toys Lost at Sea & of the Beachcombers, Oceanographers, Environmentalists & Fools Including the Author Who Went in Search of Them, by Donovan Hohn, $4.99. A few years ago, an entire shipping container full of rubber ducks went missing in transit. The ducks were carried along by ocean currents and began showing up on beaches around the world. Donovan Hohn decided to track down some ducks and find out more about the natural forces behind the story. He learned way more than he expected. This book follows him on what became an epic adventure into ocean currents, shipping conglomerates, global economics, and more.
The Savage Garden: Cultivating Carnivorous Plants, by Peter D’Amato, $4.99. No, we are not talking about the ‘90s band, we are talking about plants that eat insects and other small creatures. My kid has been fascinated by meat-eating plants for years; they go against the basic biology we teach small children. This book describes in great detail the most common types of carnivorous plants and how you might grow them at home. With a chapter called “Other Savage Plants from the Demented Mind of Mother Nature,” this book feels perfect for some spooky fall reading. The well-researched plant descriptions and beautiful photos make this book an interesting pick even if you have no intention of growing your own carnivorous plants.
Catherine, Called Birdy, by Karen Cushman, $3.99. From our Great Epistolary Novels list: It’s problematic, of course, to pretend that we can understand what might have gone on in the head 14th century girl, but Cushman makes a solid effort here, and this novel — which takes the form of Catherine’s journal — paints a fascinating (and well researched) picture of medieval life. Catherine doesn’t have a lot of agency: She’s going to have to do what her father says, including marrying the man he’s picked out for her, however much she might rebel against the idea in her diary. That rebelling feels a little anachronistic, but I’m not sure a middle grades reader would be able to identify with Catherine at all without it so I think it’s an understandable conceit. If you’re studying the Middle Ages any time soon, you will definitely want to have this one on your list.
Daughters of the Night Sky, by Aimie K. Runyan, $4.99. This novel highlights a lesser known story of WWI, that of the Russian Night Witches. This all female regiment of pilots terrorizes the Nazis, flying dangerous but crucial missions. Runyan takes readers along on the harrowing flights, then considers how life must change once the war is over.
The Final Six, by Alexandra Monir, $1.99. This exciting YA novel reads somewhat like The Martian, but with teens in the main roles. From the publisher: When Leo and Naomi are drafted, along with twenty-two of the world’s brightest teenagers, into the International Space Training Camp, their lives are forever changed. Overnight, they become global celebrities in contention for one of the six slots to travel to Europa—Jupiter’s moon—and establish a new colony, leaving their planet forever. With Earth irreparably damaged, the future of the human race rests on their shoulders. For Leo, an Italian championship swimmer, this kind of purpose is a reason to go on after losing his family. But Naomi, an Iranian-American science genius, is suspicious of the ISTC and the fact that a similar mission failed under mysterious circumstances, killing the astronauts onboard. She fears something equally sinister awaiting the Final Six beneath Europa’s surface.
Ingredients: A Visual Exploration of 75 Additives and 25 Food Products, by Dwight Eschliman and Steve Ettinger, $0.99. What is really in the food we eat? What is caramel color, anyway? What does xanthan gum actually do, and where does it come from? This fascinating collaboration between a photographer and a science writer will answer all of these questions and more. They break down all the ingredients in more than two dozen common foods to explain how all the pieces fit together. You may never look at Cool Ranch Doritos the same way, but you’ll enjoy learning about the process!
Unfamiliar Fishes, by Sarah Vowell, $4.99. I’ve loved Sarah Vowell since I first heard her contributions to This American Life. Her quirky history books cover unusual topics in her signature quippy style. This book takes on the Americanization of Hawaii, from the first settlers to the annexation. It’s a story of imperialism, native culture, and more.
What She Ate: Six Remarkable Women and the Food that Tells Their Stories, by Laura Shapiro, $4.99. This is biography told in a very different way; it absolutely fascinates me. From the publisher: What She Ate is a lively and unpredictable array of women; what they have in common with one another (and us) is a powerful relationship with food. They include Dorothy Wordsworth, whose food story transforms our picture of the life she shared with her famous poet brother; Rosa Lewis, the Edwardian-era Cockney caterer who cooked her way up the social ladder; Eleanor Roosevelt, First Lady and rigorous protector of the worst cook in White House history; Eva Braun, Hitler’s mistress, who challenges our warm associations of food, family, and table; Barbara Pym, whose witty books upend a host of stereotypes about postwar British cuisine; and Helen Gurley Brown, the editor of Cosmopolitan, whose commitment to “having it all” meant having almost nothing on the plate except a supersized portion of diet gelatin.
Monsters You Should Know, by Emma Sancartier, $1.99. This is the cutest book about horrifying monsters that you will ever see. Truly creepy monsters from folklore around the world are illustrated in a scary but still somehow charming style. This is a picture book, but probably best for ages 8+. You could shape an interesting unit study around researching these monsters.
Bliss, by Kathryn Littlewood, $3.99. The Bliss family runs a popular bakery with a secret: many of the recipes come from the family’s magic “Cookery Booke,” an ancient and powerful resource. Rosemary Bliss is looking after her siblings while her parents go out of town, leaving strict instructions not to open the book without supervision. When mysterious Aunt Lily shows up unexpectedly, the kids don’t think it would be too problematic to make some recipes from the book for her. What could possibly go wrong? This middle grade book is warm, funny, and packed with delicious details.
Guitar Zero, by Gary Marcus, $4.99. You’re never too old, or too young, to learn music. Gary Marcus was nearly 40 when he decided he wanted to learn the guitar despite having little musical experience or skill. Marcus is a scientist, and he describes both his personal musical journey and the science behind how the brain integrates new skills.
The Read-Aloud Handbook, by Jim Trelease, $4.99. Every household should have a copy of this book, a guide to awesome books to read with children. The first half of the book explain why you should read aloud to the children in your life. There are sections on problem solving for reluctant readers or listeners, as well as a section specifically on getting dads involved in the reading process. The second half of the book is a giant compendium of read-aloud books. Each book listed has a short summary, suggested age group, notes about any sensitive topics, and a list of related books. This edition was released in 2013; an updated version was just published, but it is not on sale.
Ivy and Bean Books 1-3, by Annie Barrows, $1.99. These sweet and funny stories are perfect for your new reader. My daughter has moved far beyond this series, but still often picks up one of these books to reread in a single sitting. From my junior reviewer: “I really love these books because the characters are believably drawn with just the right amount of humor. They tie in hilarious and unusual circumstances, including magic sometimes, with things I have experienced. They have a very specific sense of humor, which I share, and I can relate to almost all of the characters.”
The House in Poplar Wood, by K.E. Ormsbee, $1.99. When I saw this book described as “Haunted Mansion meets Stranger Things,” I was totally hooked. The publisher has written a better summary than I possibly could: “For as long as the Vickery twins can remember, Lee and his mother have served Memory, while Felix and his father assist Death. This is the Agreement. But one Halloween, Gretchen Whipple smashes her way into their lives. Her bargain is simple: If the twins help her solve the murder of local girl Essie Hasting, she'll help them break the Agreement. The more the three investigate, however, the more they realize that something's gone terribly wrong in their town. Death is on the loose, and if history repeats itself, Essie's might not be the last murder in Poplar Wood. Simultaneously heartwarming and delightfully spooky, The House in Poplar Wood is a story about a boy's desire to be free, a girl's desire to make a difference, and a family's desire to be together again.”
Emily’s Runaway Imagination, by Beverly Cleary, $4.99. This is a charming but lesser-known middle grade book from beloved children’s author Beverly Cleary. Emily reminds me of Pippi Longstocking without the clearly impossible situations. From the publisher: “Spunky Emily Bartlett lives in an old farmhouse in Pitchfork, Oregon'at a time when automobiles are brand-new inventions and libraries are a luxury few small towns can afford. Her runaway imagination leads her to bleach a horse, hold a very scary sleepover, and feed the hogs an unusual treat. But can she use her lively mind to help bring a library to Pitchfork?”
Tangled in Time: The Portal, by Kathryn Lasky, $1.99. This charming middle grade novel is a time travel story. Rose finds a time portal in her grandmother’s greenhouse that transports her to the the court of Henry VIII. She befriends the young Princess Elizabeth and discovers a mysterious locket that may hold a secret connecting Rose to the Tudor world.
Dear Data, by Giogia Lupi and Stefanie Posavec, $2.99. This book has a fascinating concept: two friends in different countries sent each other a postcard every week for a year. Every week had a theme, and the two friends recorded data about their lives and created a way to represent it visually. The result is more than 100 postcards illustrating the details of their lives. You’ll find this a great discussion starter about ways to visually represent ideas.
Talking Across the Divide: How to Communicate with People You Disagree with and Maybe Even Change the World, by Justin Lee, $4.99. I run a large homeschool co-op, which puts me in the position to get to know a wide variety of people. Books like Talking Across the Divide in invaluable in the current political climate for helping people find ways to connect.
The Mermaid’s Sister, by Carrie Anne Noble, $3.99. 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 Hero’s Guide to Saving Your Kingdom, by Christopher Healy, $1.99. You think you know the classic fairytale stories, but they are usually centered around the princesses. This fun middle grade series focuses on the princes. After the “happily ever after” the princes discover that their kingdoms are in danger, and they set off take on all kinds of mythical monsters. This fun and funny book is the first in a series that your middle-grade reader will love.
The Mind’s Eye, by Oliver Sacks, $4.99. What would your life be like if you lost a fundamental part of your sensory experience? Neuroscientist Oliver Sacks explores what makes us who we are in this collection of profiles. From the concert pianist who loses the ability to read music to the woman who finds herself unable to speak, Sacks deftly recreates the breadth of human experience.
Cut in Half: The Hidden World of Everyday Objects, by Mike 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.)
Art Before Breakfast: A Zillion Ways to be More Creative No Matter How Busy You Are, by Danny Gregory, $2.99. My daughter loves doing art, and fills lots of her spare time making things. I’ve never considered myself an artist and struggle to find time to develop my skills. This book is a great place to start. Danny Gregory has created short, fun activities that take 10 minutes or less. They will encourage you to make art a regular part of your life. This book is a great way to add some art education to your homeschool, or to carve out a bit of time for your own creativity.
50 Inventions That Shaped the Modern Economy, by Tim Harford, $4.99. I love this kind of book, a history through specific objects. Here’s how the publisher describes it: “Fifty Inventions That Shaped the Modern Economy paints an epic picture of change in an intimate way by telling the stories of the tools, people, and ideas that had far-reaching consequences for all of us. From the plough to artificial intelligence, from Gillette’s disposable razor to IKEA’s Billy bookcase, bestselling author and Financial Times columnist Tim Harford recounts each invention’s own curious, surprising, and memorable story.”
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.)
Hamstersaurus Rex, by Tom O’Donnell, $1.99. Is this another creepy book for Halloween? Yes and no. This wild middle school story will entertain and delight while still addressing some tougher emotional issues. From the publisher: “When a mysterious growling hamster appears at the back of his class, Sam knows just what to call him: Hamstersaurus Rex. Sam tries to protect Hammie from an overzealous Hamster Monitor, and from the meanest bully in the history of Horace Hotwater Middle School. The bully isn’t afraid of some weird little class pet. But maybe he should be. Hamstersaurus Rex is no ordinary hamster.”
Kindle Deals for November 7, 2019
It’s a nonfiction bonanza in today’s Kindle deals!
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.)
There are so many amazing books on sale today, and most of them appear to be today only, so I’m going to lay them all out quickly for you!
BIG NEWS! We now have an email list to send you a reminder each time we post new deals to the website. If you’d like to make sure you never miss a deal, sign up here.
How to Raise Successful People, by Esther Wojcicki, $2.99. This guide to parenting by a beloved teacher focuses on building independence and resilience in children and young adults. By focusing on TRICK: Trust, Respect, Independence, Collaboration, and Kindness, Wojcicki asserts that we can raise individuals who can change the world.
The Ends of the World: Volcanic Apocalypses, Lethal Oceans, and Our Quest to Understand Earth’s Past, by Peter Brannen, $1.99. How has climate change been a part of Earth’s previous mass extinctions, and what can we learn from the past that will help to improve our future? Brannen traces evidence from fossils to discover what really happened in our deep past.
Archaeology From Space, by Sarah Parcak, $2.99. A few years ago, I took an archaeology class and was fascinated to learn about the role satellite imagery and radar can play in the discover of unknown ruins. In this book, Parcak goes into great detail about some exciting discoveries made possible by satellites.
My Weird School Fast Facts: Space, Humans, and Farts, by Dan Gutman, $1.99. Elementary readers will love this set of weird science facts from the creator of the My Weird School series. Whimsical and sometimes gross pictures add to the fun.
Ladies of Liberty: The Women Who Shaped Our Nation, by Cokie Roberts, $1.99. This charming and detailed picture book by Cokie Roberts tells the stories of American women who have made an impact on our history. In its pages, you’ll learn about Louisa Adams, Isabella Graham, Sacagawea, Elizabeth Seton, and more.
The Card Catalog: Books, Cards, and Literary Treasures, by The Library of Congress, $3.99. Do you still have the sensory memory of flicking through stack after stack of cards trying to find the information you needed? This book is a tribute to the beloved card catalog system that was the glue holding libraries together for years.
STILL ON SALE
The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie, by Alan Bradley, $1.99. Readers will fall in love with the precocious 11-year-old heroine of this grown-up mystery novel. Flavia loves chemistry and has a strong interest in poison. When an old acquaintance of her father dies in her yard, it is up to Flavia to find out who killed him and why. Though it may appeal to younger readers, this book was not written for a middle-grade audience.
The Road to Middle-Earth: How J.R.R. Tolkein Created a New Mythology, by Tom Shippey, $2.99. From the publisher: “From meditations on Tolkien's inspiration to analyses of the influences of his professional background, The Road to Middle-earth takes a closer look at the novels that made Tolkien a legend. Shippey also illuminates Tolkien's more difficult works set in the same world, including The Silmarillion, Unfinished Tales, and the myth cycle, and examines the remarkable twelve-volume History of Middle-earth, written by J.R.R.'s son Christopher Tolkien.”
The Wind in the Willows, by Kenneth Grahame and Grahame Baker-Smith, $3.32. The classic tale of Mole, Rat, and Mr. Toad has been reinvigorated with some truly gorgeous illustrations. These charming adventures are funny and oh-so-very British.
The Global Economy as You’ve Never Seen It: 99 Ingenious Infographics That Put It All Together, by Thomas Ramge and Jan Schwochow, $3.99. Break out the tablet or computer, because these complicated infographics deserve a big screen! The inventive illustrations explain everything from economic theory to global migration to trade agreements.
How to Read Nature, by Tristan Gooley, $1.99. I thought I was generally knowledgeable about the natural world, but I learned SO many things from this book! For instance, did you know that moss and algae are most likely to grow on the north side of trees or structures? Tristan Gooley has spent years studying nature and shares all his secrets for way-finding, foraging, and more in the short but densely fact-filled book.
Girl Sleuth: Nancy Drew and the Women Who Created Her, by Melanie Rehak, $3.99. Nancy Drew has been reinvented for many generations of fans, so odds are pretty good that she was part of your adolescent reading life. This book is a fascinating look at her origin and evolution.
Black Women in Science, by Kimberly Brown Pellum, $0.99. This delightful collection of biographies profiles scientists in many fields. Some are more famous than others, but all have interesting and inspirational stories to discover. This book will encourage your middle grade reader to envision a life in science.
What I Know Now, edited by Ellyn Spragins, $2.99. Do you ever wish you could go back and give your younger self some advice? This book is based on that premise. Forty women who have accomplished great things have written letters to their younger selves. Each has unique insight. If you’re familiar with the woman writing, the letter can offer interesting background, but the lessons are broadly applicable.
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.”
Chalk, by Bill Thomson, $0.99. This is a picture book with no words, perfect for kids who would like to make up the story on their own. Or, if you have a kid like mine, who really loves words and reading, it may be deeply unsettling. Use your best judgment. Told through gorgeous, realistic illustrations, Chalk is the story of what happens one day when kids’ chalk drawings come to life.
Pride and Prejudice and Zombies, by Jane Austen and Seth Grahame-Smith, $1.99. You’re either going to love this or hate it. Seth Grahame-Smith has expanded Austen’s classic novel to add in scenes of a zombie plague in Meryton. More than 80% of Austen’s original text remains, with modern and gruesome enhancements. This is an over-the-top parody that also seriously addresses some of the interesting details and side plots of the original work. It’s ridiculous, yes, but also fairly entertaining and fodder for an excellent discussion about literary adaptations. If this sounds like your kind of thing, you may also want to check out Sense and Sensibility and Sea Monsters.
Lives in Ruins: Archaeologists and the Seductive Lure of Human Rubble, by Marilyn Johnson, $1.99. Indiana Jones is by far the most famous and exciting archaeologist, running through the jungle digging up bones and fighting off Nazis. But what does the job a real archaeologist look like? Johnson spends time with archaeologists doing work around the world to discover the sweat, cultural discussions, and technology that shape modern research.
Before They Were Authors: Famous Writers as Kids, by Elizabeth Haidle, $2.99. This charming graphic novel tells the stories of many famous authors when they were kids. The backgrounds are varied and interesting, and the illustrations look both cute and historical. This stories will inspire kids and make them consider whether they could become famous writers too.
Other Words For Home, by Jasmine Warga, $1.99. This middle grade story about a Syrian girl moving to Cincinnati is a tough but lovely read. Told in lyrical verse through Jude’s eyes, Other Words For Home traces her path from Aleppo to the U.S., her confusion about the differences in American customs, and her path to how she will fit into her new home. Read this book for a great opportunity to see the world from a new perspective.
A Closed and Common Orbit, by Becky Chambers, $1.99. This is the award-winning second book in a scifi series, but it can be read as a standalone. Chambers writes space opera scifi that really focuses on relationships between the characters. The plot is complicated, so I’ll let the publisher describe it: “Lovelace was once merely a ship’s artificial intelligence. When she wakes up in a new body, following a total system shut-down and reboot, she has no memory of what came before. As Lovelace learns to negotiate the universe and discover who she is, she makes friends with Pepper, an excitable engineer, who’s determined to help her learn and grow. Together, Pepper and Lovey will discover that no matter how vast space is, two people can fill it together.”
Don’t Know Much About Mythology, by Kenneth C. Davis, $2.99. I’m sure my HSL readers know a lot of things about mythology, but this book is pretty comprehensive. Davis looks at myths from around the world. Dig deeper than Greeks and Romans to learn about Druid myths, Incan gods, and more.
Better Than Normal: How What Makes You Different Can Make You Exceptional, by Dale Archer, $4.99. I have not read this, but the concept sounds intriguing. Dr. Archer looks at 8 common behavior traits that can be problematic when extreme to discover the ways they can also be beneficial. He suggests that attentiveness, anxiety, shyness, and other issues lie along a spectrum. Everyone’s personality is shaped by one or more of these traits, and Archer offers ways to harness them to work for you.
Raising a Sensory Smart Child, by Lindsey Biel and Nancy Peske, $4.99. This recently revised book is a great resource for parents of children with sensory sensitivities. The authors provide detailed information on the science behind sensory issues, then offer practical tips for dealing with the challenges that can come with sensory avoidance or seeking. Practical suggestions about the learning environment will be helpful to homeschoolers and those trying to partner with a school to meet a child’s needs.
A History of the World in 100 Objects, by Neil MacGregor, $4.99. This book is fantastic! I own the giant doorstop that is the print edition, and it sits in my living room at all times as a handy reference or exploration guide. The title is fairly descriptive. MacGregor has gathered a collection of artifacts from all over the world that illustrate some major stops in the human journey of innovation. From early jewelry to cookware to the modern credit card, each object’s significance is carefully described. This is the kind of book you can read sequentially or dip into when curious about a time period or geographic area.
Lord of the Flies, by William Golding, $1.99. This is a classic of coming-of-age literature found on many high school curricula. A group of boys is stranded on an island after a school trip gone horribly wrong. With no adults to guide them, they must govern themselves and find a way off of the island. They have some remarkable successes and some very memorable failures. Read this book to start a discussion of human nature.
How to Be a Happier Parent, by KJ Dell’Antonia, $4.99. I’ve really enjoyed Dell’Antonia’s New York Times parenting column. This book collects and connects some of the recurring themes about how to find a greater sense of happiness and peace through the parenting journey. From the publisher: In this optimistic, solution-packed book, KJ asks: How can we change our family life so that it is full of the joy we'd always hoped for? Drawing from the latest research and interviews with families, KJ discovers that it's possible to do more by doing less, and make our family life a refuge and pleasure, rather than another stress point in a hectic day. She focuses on nine common problem spots that cause parents the most grief, explores why they are hard, and offers small, doable, sometimes surprising steps you can take to make them better.
Moby-Duck: The True Story of 28,800 Bath Toys Lost at Sea & of the Beachcombers, Oceanographers, Environmentalists & Fools Including the Author Who Went in Search of Them, by Donovan Hohn, $4.99. A few years ago, an entire shipping container full of rubber ducks went missing in transit. The ducks were carried along by ocean currents and began showing up on beaches around the world. Donovan Hohn decided to track down some ducks and find out more about the natural forces behind the story. He learned way more than he expected. This book follows him on what became an epic adventure into ocean currents, shipping conglomerates, global economics, and more.
The Savage Garden: Cultivating Carnivorous Plants, by Peter D’Amato, $4.99. No, we are not talking about the ‘90s band, we are talking about plants that eat insects and other small creatures. My kid has been fascinated by meat-eating plants for years; they go against the basic biology we teach small children. This book describes in great detail the most common types of carnivorous plants and how you might grow them at home. With a chapter called “Other Savage Plants from the Demented Mind of Mother Nature,” this book feels perfect for some spooky fall reading. The well-researched plant descriptions and beautiful photos make this book an interesting pick even if you have no intention of growing your own carnivorous plants.
Catherine, Called Birdy, by Karen Cushman, $3.99. From our Great Epistolary Novels list: It’s problematic, of course, to pretend that we can understand what might have gone on in the head 14th century girl, but Cushman makes a solid effort here, and this novel — which takes the form of Catherine’s journal — paints a fascinating (and well researched) picture of medieval life. Catherine doesn’t have a lot of agency: She’s going to have to do what her father says, including marrying the man he’s picked out for her, however much she might rebel against the idea in her diary. That rebelling feels a little anachronistic, but I’m not sure a middle grades reader would be able to identify with Catherine at all without it so I think it’s an understandable conceit. If you’re studying the Middle Ages any time soon, you will definitely want to have this one on your list.
Daughters of the Night Sky, by Aimie K. Runyan, $4.99. This novel highlights a lesser known story of WWI, that of the Russian Night Witches. This all female regiment of pilots terrorizes the Nazis, flying dangerous but crucial missions. Runyan takes readers along on the harrowing flights, then considers how life must change once the war is over.
The Final Six, by Alexandra Monir, $1.99. This exciting YA novel reads somewhat like The Martian, but with teens in the main roles. From the publisher: When Leo and Naomi are drafted, along with twenty-two of the world’s brightest teenagers, into the International Space Training Camp, their lives are forever changed. Overnight, they become global celebrities in contention for one of the six slots to travel to Europa—Jupiter’s moon—and establish a new colony, leaving their planet forever. With Earth irreparably damaged, the future of the human race rests on their shoulders. For Leo, an Italian championship swimmer, this kind of purpose is a reason to go on after losing his family. But Naomi, an Iranian-American science genius, is suspicious of the ISTC and the fact that a similar mission failed under mysterious circumstances, killing the astronauts onboard. She fears something equally sinister awaiting the Final Six beneath Europa’s surface.
Ingredients: A Visual Exploration of 75 Additives and 25 Food Products, by Dwight Eschliman and Steve Ettinger, $0.99. What is really in the food we eat? What is caramel color, anyway? What does xanthan gum actually do, and where does it come from? This fascinating collaboration between a photographer and a science writer will answer all of these questions and more. They break down all the ingredients in more than two dozen common foods to explain how all the pieces fit together. You may never look at Cool Ranch Doritos the same way, but you’ll enjoy learning about the process!
Unfamiliar Fishes, by Sarah Vowell, $4.99. I’ve loved Sarah Vowell since I first heard her contributions to This American Life. Her quirky history books cover unusual topics in her signature quippy style. This book takes on the Americanization of Hawaii, from the first settlers to the annexation. It’s a story of imperialism, native culture, and more.
What She Ate: Six Remarkable Women and the Food that Tells Their Stories, by Laura Shapiro, $4.99. This is biography told in a very different way; it absolutely fascinates me. From the publisher: What She Ate is a lively and unpredictable array of women; what they have in common with one another (and us) is a powerful relationship with food. They include Dorothy Wordsworth, whose food story transforms our picture of the life she shared with her famous poet brother; Rosa Lewis, the Edwardian-era Cockney caterer who cooked her way up the social ladder; Eleanor Roosevelt, First Lady and rigorous protector of the worst cook in White House history; Eva Braun, Hitler’s mistress, who challenges our warm associations of food, family, and table; Barbara Pym, whose witty books upend a host of stereotypes about postwar British cuisine; and Helen Gurley Brown, the editor of Cosmopolitan, whose commitment to “having it all” meant having almost nothing on the plate except a supersized portion of diet gelatin.
Monsters You Should Know, by Emma Sancartier, $1.99. This is the cutest book about horrifying monsters that you will ever see. Truly creepy monsters from folklore around the world are illustrated in a scary but still somehow charming style. This is a picture book, but probably best for ages 8+. You could shape an interesting unit study around researching these monsters.
Bliss, by Kathryn Littlewood, $3.99. The Bliss family runs a popular bakery with a secret: many of the recipes come from the family’s magic “Cookery Booke,” an ancient and powerful resource. Rosemary Bliss is looking after her siblings while her parents go out of town, leaving strict instructions not to open the book without supervision. When mysterious Aunt Lily shows up unexpectedly, the kids don’t think it would be too problematic to make some recipes from the book for her. What could possibly go wrong? This middle grade book is warm, funny, and packed with delicious details.
Guitar Zero, by Gary Marcus, $4.99. You’re never too old, or too young, to learn music. Gary Marcus was nearly 40 when he decided he wanted to learn the guitar despite having little musical experience or skill. Marcus is a scientist, and he describes both his personal musical journey and the science behind how the brain integrates new skills.
The Read-Aloud Handbook, by Jim Trelease, $4.99. Every household should have a copy of this book, a guide to awesome books to read with children. The first half of the book explain why you should read aloud to the children in your life. There are sections on problem solving for reluctant readers or listeners, as well as a section specifically on getting dads involved in the reading process. The second half of the book is a giant compendium of read-aloud books. Each book listed has a short summary, suggested age group, notes about any sensitive topics, and a list of related books. This edition was released in 2013; an updated version was just published, but it is not on sale.
Ivy and Bean Books 1-3, by Annie Barrows, $1.99. These sweet and funny stories are perfect for your new reader. My daughter has moved far beyond this series, but still often picks up one of these books to reread in a single sitting. From my junior reviewer: “I really love these books because the characters are believably drawn with just the right amount of humor. They tie in hilarious and unusual circumstances, including magic sometimes, with things I have experienced. They have a very specific sense of humor, which I share, and I can relate to almost all of the characters.”
The House in Poplar Wood, by K.E. Ormsbee, $1.99. When I saw this book described as “Haunted Mansion meets Stranger Things,” I was totally hooked. The publisher has written a better summary than I possibly could: “For as long as the Vickery twins can remember, Lee and his mother have served Memory, while Felix and his father assist Death. This is the Agreement. But one Halloween, Gretchen Whipple smashes her way into their lives. Her bargain is simple: If the twins help her solve the murder of local girl Essie Hasting, she'll help them break the Agreement. The more the three investigate, however, the more they realize that something's gone terribly wrong in their town. Death is on the loose, and if history repeats itself, Essie's might not be the last murder in Poplar Wood. Simultaneously heartwarming and delightfully spooky, The House in Poplar Wood is a story about a boy's desire to be free, a girl's desire to make a difference, and a family's desire to be together again.”
Emily’s Runaway Imagination, by Beverly Cleary, $4.99. This is a charming but lesser-known middle grade book from beloved children’s author Beverly Cleary. Emily reminds me of Pippi Longstocking without the clearly impossible situations. From the publisher: “Spunky Emily Bartlett lives in an old farmhouse in Pitchfork, Oregon'at a time when automobiles are brand-new inventions and libraries are a luxury few small towns can afford. Her runaway imagination leads her to bleach a horse, hold a very scary sleepover, and feed the hogs an unusual treat. But can she use her lively mind to help bring a library to Pitchfork?”
Tangled in Time: The Portal, by Kathryn Lasky, $1.99. This charming middle grade novel is a time travel story. Rose finds a time portal in her grandmother’s greenhouse that transports her to the the court of Henry VIII. She befriends the young Princess Elizabeth and discovers a mysterious locket that may hold a secret connecting Rose to the Tudor world.
Dear Data, by Giogia Lupi and Stefanie Posavec, $2.99. This book has a fascinating concept: two friends in different countries sent each other a postcard every week for a year. Every week had a theme, and the two friends recorded data about their lives and created a way to represent it visually. The result is more than 100 postcards illustrating the details of their lives. You’ll find this a great discussion starter about ways to visually represent ideas.
Talking Across the Divide: How to Communicate with People You Disagree with and Maybe Even Change the World, by Justin Lee, $4.99. I run a large homeschool co-op, which puts me in the position to get to know a wide variety of people. Books like Talking Across the Divide in invaluable in the current political climate for helping people find ways to connect.
The Mermaid’s Sister, by Carrie Anne Noble, $3.99. 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 Hero’s Guide to Saving Your Kingdom, by Christopher Healy, $1.99. You think you know the classic fairytale stories, but they are usually centered around the princesses. This fun middle grade series focuses on the princes. After the “happily ever after” the princes discover that their kingdoms are in danger, and they set off take on all kinds of mythical monsters. This fun and funny book is the first in a series that your middle-grade reader will love.
The Mind’s Eye, by Oliver Sacks, $4.99. What would your life be like if you lost a fundamental part of your sensory experience? Neuroscientist Oliver Sacks explores what makes us who we are in this collection of profiles. From the concert pianist who loses the ability to read music to the woman who finds herself unable to speak, Sacks deftly recreates the breadth of human experience.
Cut in Half: The Hidden World of Everyday Objects, by Mike 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.)
Art Before Breakfast: A Zillion Ways to be More Creative No Matter How Busy You Are, by Danny Gregory, $2.99. My daughter loves doing art, and fills lots of her spare time making things. I’ve never considered myself an artist and struggle to find time to develop my skills. This book is a great place to start. Danny Gregory has created short, fun activities that take 10 minutes or less. They will encourage you to make art a regular part of your life. This book is a great way to add some art education to your homeschool, or to carve out a bit of time for your own creativity.
50 Inventions That Shaped the Modern Economy, by Tim Harford, $4.99. I love this kind of book, a history through specific objects. Here’s how the publisher describes it: “Fifty Inventions That Shaped the Modern Economy paints an epic picture of change in an intimate way by telling the stories of the tools, people, and ideas that had far-reaching consequences for all of us. From the plough to artificial intelligence, from Gillette’s disposable razor to IKEA’s Billy bookcase, bestselling author and Financial Times columnist Tim Harford recounts each invention’s own curious, surprising, and memorable story.”
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.)
Hamstersaurus Rex, by Tom O’Donnell, $1.99. Is this another creepy book for Halloween? Yes and no. This wild middle school story will entertain and delight while still addressing some tougher emotional issues. From the publisher: “When a mysterious growling hamster appears at the back of his class, Sam knows just what to call him: Hamstersaurus Rex. Sam tries to protect Hammie from an overzealous Hamster Monitor, and from the meanest bully in the history of Horace Hotwater Middle School. The bully isn’t afraid of some weird little class pet. But maybe he should be. Hamstersaurus Rex is no ordinary hamster.”
Kindle Deals for November 6, 2019
A beautifully illustrated children’s classic, an eccentric young mystery heroine, and a behind-the-scenes look at the writing of The Lord of The Rings in today’s Kindle deals.
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.)
BIG NEWS! We now have an email list to send you a reminder each time we post new deals to the website. If you’d like to make sure you never miss a deal, sign up here.
The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie, by Alan Bradley, $1.99. Readers will fall in love with the precocious 11-year-old heroine of this grown-up mystery novel. Flavia loves chemistry and has a strong interest in poison. When an old acquaintance of her father dies in her yard, it is up to Flavia to find out who killed him and why. Though it may appeal to younger readers, this book was not written for a middle-grade audience.
The Road to Middle-Earth: How J.R.R. Tolkein Created a New Mythology, by Tom Shippey, $2.99. From the publisher: “From meditations on Tolkien's inspiration to analyses of the influences of his professional background, The Road to Middle-earth takes a closer look at the novels that made Tolkien a legend. Shippey also illuminates Tolkien's more difficult works set in the same world, including The Silmarillion, Unfinished Tales, and the myth cycle, and examines the remarkable twelve-volume History of Middle-earth, written by J.R.R.'s son Christopher Tolkien.”
The Wind in the Willows, by Kenneth Grahame and Grahame Baker-Smith, $3.32. The classic tale of Mole, Rat, and Mr. Toad has been reinvigorated with some truly gorgeous illustrations. These charming adventures are funny and oh-so-very British.
STILL ON SALE
The Global Economy as You’ve Never Seen It: 99 Ingenious Infographics That Put It All Together, by Thomas Ramge and Jan Schwochow, $3.99. Break out the tablet or computer, because these complicated infographics deserve a big screen! The inventive illustrations explain everything from economic theory to global migration to trade agreements.
How to Read Nature, by Tristan Gooley, $1.99. I thought I was generally knowledgeable about the natural world, but I learned SO many things from this book! For instance, did you know that moss and algae are most likely to grow on the north side of trees or structures? Tristan Gooley has spent years studying nature and shares all his secrets for way-finding, foraging, and more in the short but densely fact-filled book.
Girl Sleuth: Nancy Drew and the Women Who Created Her, by Melanie Rehak, $3.99. Nancy Drew has been reinvented for many generations of fans, so odds are pretty good that she was part of your adolescent reading life. This book is a fascinating look at her origin and evolution.
Black Women in Science, by Kimberly Brown Pellum, $0.99. This delightful collection of biographies profiles scientists in many fields. Some are more famous than others, but all have interesting and inspirational stories to discover. This book will encourage your middle grade reader to envision a life in science.
What I Know Now, edited by Ellyn Spragins, $2.99. Do you ever wish you could go back and give your younger self some advice? This book is based on that premise. Forty women who have accomplished great things have written letters to their younger selves. Each has unique insight. If you’re familiar with the woman writing, the letter can offer interesting background, but the lessons are broadly applicable.
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.”
Chalk, by Bill Thomson, $0.99. This is a picture book with no words, perfect for kids who would like to make up the story on their own. Or, if you have a kid like mine, who really loves words and reading, it may be deeply unsettling. Use your best judgment. Told through gorgeous, realistic illustrations, Chalk is the story of what happens one day when kids’ chalk drawings come to life.
Pride and Prejudice and Zombies, by Jane Austen and Seth Grahame-Smith, $1.99. You’re either going to love this or hate it. Seth Grahame-Smith has expanded Austen’s classic novel to add in scenes of a zombie plague in Meryton. More than 80% of Austen’s original text remains, with modern and gruesome enhancements. This is an over-the-top parody that also seriously addresses some of the interesting details and side plots of the original work. It’s ridiculous, yes, but also fairly entertaining and fodder for an excellent discussion about literary adaptations. If this sounds like your kind of thing, you may also want to check out Sense and Sensibility and Sea Monsters.
Lives in Ruins: Archaeologists and the Seductive Lure of Human Rubble, by Marilyn Johnson, $1.99. Indiana Jones is by far the most famous and exciting archaeologist, running through the jungle digging up bones and fighting off Nazis. But what does the job a real archaeologist look like? Johnson spends time with archaeologists doing work around the world to discover the sweat, cultural discussions, and technology that shape modern research.
Before They Were Authors: Famous Writers as Kids, by Elizabeth Haidle, $2.99. This charming graphic novel tells the stories of many famous authors when they were kids. The backgrounds are varied and interesting, and the illustrations look both cute and historical. This stories will inspire kids and make them consider whether they could become famous writers too.
Other Words For Home, by Jasmine Warga, $1.99. This middle grade story about a Syrian girl moving to Cincinnati is a tough but lovely read. Told in lyrical verse through Jude’s eyes, Other Words For Home traces her path from Aleppo to the U.S., her confusion about the differences in American customs, and her path to how she will fit into her new home. Read this book for a great opportunity to see the world from a new perspective.
A Closed and Common Orbit, by Becky Chambers, $1.99. This is the award-winning second book in a scifi series, but it can be read as a standalone. Chambers writes space opera scifi that really focuses on relationships between the characters. The plot is complicated, so I’ll let the publisher describe it: “Lovelace was once merely a ship’s artificial intelligence. When she wakes up in a new body, following a total system shut-down and reboot, she has no memory of what came before. As Lovelace learns to negotiate the universe and discover who she is, she makes friends with Pepper, an excitable engineer, who’s determined to help her learn and grow. Together, Pepper and Lovey will discover that no matter how vast space is, two people can fill it together.”
Don’t Know Much About Mythology, by Kenneth C. Davis, $2.99. I’m sure my HSL readers know a lot of things about mythology, but this book is pretty comprehensive. Davis looks at myths from around the world. Dig deeper than Greeks and Romans to learn about Druid myths, Incan gods, and more.
Better Than Normal: How What Makes You Different Can Make You Exceptional, by Dale Archer, $4.99. I have not read this, but the concept sounds intriguing. Dr. Archer looks at 8 common behavior traits that can be problematic when extreme to discover the ways they can also be beneficial. He suggests that attentiveness, anxiety, shyness, and other issues lie along a spectrum. Everyone’s personality is shaped by one or more of these traits, and Archer offers ways to harness them to work for you.
Raising a Sensory Smart Child, by Lindsey Biel and Nancy Peske, $4.99. This recently revised book is a great resource for parents of children with sensory sensitivities. The authors provide detailed information on the science behind sensory issues, then offer practical tips for dealing with the challenges that can come with sensory avoidance or seeking. Practical suggestions about the learning environment will be helpful to homeschoolers and those trying to partner with a school to meet a child’s needs.
A History of the World in 100 Objects, by Neil MacGregor, $4.99. This book is fantastic! I own the giant doorstop that is the print edition, and it sits in my living room at all times as a handy reference or exploration guide. The title is fairly descriptive. MacGregor has gathered a collection of artifacts from all over the world that illustrate some major stops in the human journey of innovation. From early jewelry to cookware to the modern credit card, each object’s significance is carefully described. This is the kind of book you can read sequentially or dip into when curious about a time period or geographic area.
Lord of the Flies, by William Golding, $1.99. This is a classic of coming-of-age literature found on many high school curricula. A group of boys is stranded on an island after a school trip gone horribly wrong. With no adults to guide them, they must govern themselves and find a way off of the island. They have some remarkable successes and some very memorable failures. Read this book to start a discussion of human nature.
How to Be a Happier Parent, by KJ Dell’Antonia, $4.99. I’ve really enjoyed Dell’Antonia’s New York Times parenting column. This book collects and connects some of the recurring themes about how to find a greater sense of happiness and peace through the parenting journey. From the publisher: In this optimistic, solution-packed book, KJ asks: How can we change our family life so that it is full of the joy we'd always hoped for? Drawing from the latest research and interviews with families, KJ discovers that it's possible to do more by doing less, and make our family life a refuge and pleasure, rather than another stress point in a hectic day. She focuses on nine common problem spots that cause parents the most grief, explores why they are hard, and offers small, doable, sometimes surprising steps you can take to make them better.
Moby-Duck: The True Story of 28,800 Bath Toys Lost at Sea & of the Beachcombers, Oceanographers, Environmentalists & Fools Including the Author Who Went in Search of Them, by Donovan Hohn, $4.99. A few years ago, an entire shipping container full of rubber ducks went missing in transit. The ducks were carried along by ocean currents and began showing up on beaches around the world. Donovan Hohn decided to track down some ducks and find out more about the natural forces behind the story. He learned way more than he expected. This book follows him on what became an epic adventure into ocean currents, shipping conglomerates, global economics, and more.
The Savage Garden: Cultivating Carnivorous Plants, by Peter D’Amato, $4.99. No, we are not talking about the ‘90s band, we are talking about plants that eat insects and other small creatures. My kid has been fascinated by meat-eating plants for years; they go against the basic biology we teach small children. This book describes in great detail the most common types of carnivorous plants and how you might grow them at home. With a chapter called “Other Savage Plants from the Demented Mind of Mother Nature,” this book feels perfect for some spooky fall reading. The well-researched plant descriptions and beautiful photos make this book an interesting pick even if you have no intention of growing your own carnivorous plants.
Catherine, Called Birdy, by Karen Cushman, $3.99. From our Great Epistolary Novels list: It’s problematic, of course, to pretend that we can understand what might have gone on in the head 14th century girl, but Cushman makes a solid effort here, and this novel — which takes the form of Catherine’s journal — paints a fascinating (and well researched) picture of medieval life. Catherine doesn’t have a lot of agency: She’s going to have to do what her father says, including marrying the man he’s picked out for her, however much she might rebel against the idea in her diary. That rebelling feels a little anachronistic, but I’m not sure a middle grades reader would be able to identify with Catherine at all without it so I think it’s an understandable conceit. If you’re studying the Middle Ages any time soon, you will definitely want to have this one on your list.
Daughters of the Night Sky, by Aimie K. Runyan, $4.99. This novel highlights a lesser known story of WWI, that of the Russian Night Witches. This all female regiment of pilots terrorizes the Nazis, flying dangerous but crucial missions. Runyan takes readers along on the harrowing flights, then considers how life must change once the war is over.
The Final Six, by Alexandra Monir, $1.99. This exciting YA novel reads somewhat like The Martian, but with teens in the main roles. From the publisher: When Leo and Naomi are drafted, along with twenty-two of the world’s brightest teenagers, into the International Space Training Camp, their lives are forever changed. Overnight, they become global celebrities in contention for one of the six slots to travel to Europa—Jupiter’s moon—and establish a new colony, leaving their planet forever. With Earth irreparably damaged, the future of the human race rests on their shoulders. For Leo, an Italian championship swimmer, this kind of purpose is a reason to go on after losing his family. But Naomi, an Iranian-American science genius, is suspicious of the ISTC and the fact that a similar mission failed under mysterious circumstances, killing the astronauts onboard. She fears something equally sinister awaiting the Final Six beneath Europa’s surface.
Ingredients: A Visual Exploration of 75 Additives and 25 Food Products, by Dwight Eschliman and Steve Ettinger, $0.99. What is really in the food we eat? What is caramel color, anyway? What does xanthan gum actually do, and where does it come from? This fascinating collaboration between a photographer and a science writer will answer all of these questions and more. They break down all the ingredients in more than two dozen common foods to explain how all the pieces fit together. You may never look at Cool Ranch Doritos the same way, but you’ll enjoy learning about the process!
Unfamiliar Fishes, by Sarah Vowell, $4.99. I’ve loved Sarah Vowell since I first heard her contributions to This American Life. Her quirky history books cover unusual topics in her signature quippy style. This book takes on the Americanization of Hawaii, from the first settlers to the annexation. It’s a story of imperialism, native culture, and more.
What She Ate: Six Remarkable Women and the Food that Tells Their Stories, by Laura Shapiro, $4.99. This is biography told in a very different way; it absolutely fascinates me. From the publisher: What She Ate is a lively and unpredictable array of women; what they have in common with one another (and us) is a powerful relationship with food. They include Dorothy Wordsworth, whose food story transforms our picture of the life she shared with her famous poet brother; Rosa Lewis, the Edwardian-era Cockney caterer who cooked her way up the social ladder; Eleanor Roosevelt, First Lady and rigorous protector of the worst cook in White House history; Eva Braun, Hitler’s mistress, who challenges our warm associations of food, family, and table; Barbara Pym, whose witty books upend a host of stereotypes about postwar British cuisine; and Helen Gurley Brown, the editor of Cosmopolitan, whose commitment to “having it all” meant having almost nothing on the plate except a supersized portion of diet gelatin.
Monsters You Should Know, by Emma Sancartier, $1.99. This is the cutest book about horrifying monsters that you will ever see. Truly creepy monsters from folklore around the world are illustrated in a scary but still somehow charming style. This is a picture book, but probably best for ages 8+. You could shape an interesting unit study around researching these monsters.
Bliss, by Kathryn Littlewood, $3.99. The Bliss family runs a popular bakery with a secret: many of the recipes come from the family’s magic “Cookery Booke,” an ancient and powerful resource. Rosemary Bliss is looking after her siblings while her parents go out of town, leaving strict instructions not to open the book without supervision. When mysterious Aunt Lily shows up unexpectedly, the kids don’t think it would be too problematic to make some recipes from the book for her. What could possibly go wrong? This middle grade book is warm, funny, and packed with delicious details.
Guitar Zero, by Gary Marcus, $4.99. You’re never too old, or too young, to learn music. Gary Marcus was nearly 40 when he decided he wanted to learn the guitar despite having little musical experience or skill. Marcus is a scientist, and he describes both his personal musical journey and the science behind how the brain integrates new skills.
The Read-Aloud Handbook, by Jim Trelease, $4.99. Every household should have a copy of this book, a guide to awesome books to read with children. The first half of the book explain why you should read aloud to the children in your life. There are sections on problem solving for reluctant readers or listeners, as well as a section specifically on getting dads involved in the reading process. The second half of the book is a giant compendium of read-aloud books. Each book listed has a short summary, suggested age group, notes about any sensitive topics, and a list of related books. This edition was released in 2013; an updated version was just published, but it is not on sale.
Ivy and Bean Books 1-3, by Annie Barrows, $1.99. These sweet and funny stories are perfect for your new reader. My daughter has moved far beyond this series, but still often picks up one of these books to reread in a single sitting. From my junior reviewer: “I really love these books because the characters are believably drawn with just the right amount of humor. They tie in hilarious and unusual circumstances, including magic sometimes, with things I have experienced. They have a very specific sense of humor, which I share, and I can relate to almost all of the characters.”
The House in Poplar Wood, by K.E. Ormsbee, $1.99. When I saw this book described as “Haunted Mansion meets Stranger Things,” I was totally hooked. The publisher has written a better summary than I possibly could: “For as long as the Vickery twins can remember, Lee and his mother have served Memory, while Felix and his father assist Death. This is the Agreement. But one Halloween, Gretchen Whipple smashes her way into their lives. Her bargain is simple: If the twins help her solve the murder of local girl Essie Hasting, she'll help them break the Agreement. The more the three investigate, however, the more they realize that something's gone terribly wrong in their town. Death is on the loose, and if history repeats itself, Essie's might not be the last murder in Poplar Wood. Simultaneously heartwarming and delightfully spooky, The House in Poplar Wood is a story about a boy's desire to be free, a girl's desire to make a difference, and a family's desire to be together again.”
Emily’s Runaway Imagination, by Beverly Cleary, $4.99. This is a charming but lesser-known middle grade book from beloved children’s author Beverly Cleary. Emily reminds me of Pippi Longstocking without the clearly impossible situations. From the publisher: “Spunky Emily Bartlett lives in an old farmhouse in Pitchfork, Oregon'at a time when automobiles are brand-new inventions and libraries are a luxury few small towns can afford. Her runaway imagination leads her to bleach a horse, hold a very scary sleepover, and feed the hogs an unusual treat. But can she use her lively mind to help bring a library to Pitchfork?”
Tangled in Time: The Portal, by Kathryn Lasky, $1.99. This charming middle grade novel is a time travel story. Rose finds a time portal in her grandmother’s greenhouse that transports her to the the court of Henry VIII. She befriends the young Princess Elizabeth and discovers a mysterious locket that may hold a secret connecting Rose to the Tudor world.
Dear Data, by Giogia Lupi and Stefanie Posavec, $2.99. This book has a fascinating concept: two friends in different countries sent each other a postcard every week for a year. Every week had a theme, and the two friends recorded data about their lives and created a way to represent it visually. The result is more than 100 postcards illustrating the details of their lives. You’ll find this a great discussion starter about ways to visually represent ideas.
Talking Across the Divide: How to Communicate with People You Disagree with and Maybe Even Change the World, by Justin Lee, $4.99. I run a large homeschool co-op, which puts me in the position to get to know a wide variety of people. Books like Talking Across the Divide in invaluable in the current political climate for helping people find ways to connect.
The Mermaid’s Sister, by Carrie Anne Noble, $3.99. 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 Hero’s Guide to Saving Your Kingdom, by Christopher Healy, $1.99. You think you know the classic fairytale stories, but they are usually centered around the princesses. This fun middle grade series focuses on the princes. After the “happily ever after” the princes discover that their kingdoms are in danger, and they set off take on all kinds of mythical monsters. This fun and funny book is the first in a series that your middle-grade reader will love.
The Mind’s Eye, by Oliver Sacks, $4.99. What would your life be like if you lost a fundamental part of your sensory experience? Neuroscientist Oliver Sacks explores what makes us who we are in this collection of profiles. From the concert pianist who loses the ability to read music to the woman who finds herself unable to speak, Sacks deftly recreates the breadth of human experience.
Cut in Half: The Hidden World of Everyday Objects, by Mike 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.)
Art Before Breakfast: A Zillion Ways to be More Creative No Matter How Busy You Are, by Danny Gregory, $2.99. My daughter loves doing art, and fills lots of her spare time making things. I’ve never considered myself an artist and struggle to find time to develop my skills. This book is a great place to start. Danny Gregory has created short, fun activities that take 10 minutes or less. They will encourage you to make art a regular part of your life. This book is a great way to add some art education to your homeschool, or to carve out a bit of time for your own creativity.
50 Inventions That Shaped the Modern Economy, by Tim Harford, $4.99. I love this kind of book, a history through specific objects. Here’s how the publisher describes it: “Fifty Inventions That Shaped the Modern Economy paints an epic picture of change in an intimate way by telling the stories of the tools, people, and ideas that had far-reaching consequences for all of us. From the plough to artificial intelligence, from Gillette’s disposable razor to IKEA’s Billy bookcase, bestselling author and Financial Times columnist Tim Harford recounts each invention’s own curious, surprising, and memorable story.”
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.)
Hamstersaurus Rex, by Tom O’Donnell, $1.99. Is this another creepy book for Halloween? Yes and no. This wild middle school story will entertain and delight while still addressing some tougher emotional issues. From the publisher: “When a mysterious growling hamster appears at the back of his class, Sam knows just what to call him: Hamstersaurus Rex. Sam tries to protect Hammie from an overzealous Hamster Monitor, and from the meanest bully in the history of Horace Hotwater Middle School. The bully isn’t afraid of some weird little class pet. But maybe he should be. Hamstersaurus Rex is no ordinary hamster.”
Kindle Deals for November 5, 2019
Global economics, girl sleuths, and nature detectives in today’s Kindle deals.
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.)
BIG NEWS! We now have an email list to send you a reminder each time we post new deals to the website. If you’d like to make sure you never miss a deal, sign up here.
The Global Economy as You’ve Never Seen It: 99 Ingenious Infographics That Put It All Together, by Thomas Ramge and Jan Schwochow, $3.99. Break out the tablet or computer, because these complicated infographics deserve a big screen! The inventive illustrations explain everything from economic theory to global migration to trade agreements.
How to Read Nature, by Tristan Gooley, $1.99. I thought I was generally knowledgeable about the natural world, but I learned SO many things from this book! For instance, did you know that moss and algae are most likely to grow on the north side of trees or structures? Tristan Gooley has spent years studying nature and shares all his secrets for way-finding, foraging, and more in the short but densely fact-filled book.
Girl Sleuth: Nancy Drew and the Women Who Created Her, by Melanie Rehak, $3.99. Nancy Drew has been reinvented for many generations of fans, so odds are pretty good that she was part of your adolescent reading life. This book is a fascinating look at her origin and evolution.
STILL ON SALE
Black Women in Science, by Kimberly Brown Pellum, $0.99. This delightful collection of biographies profiles scientists in many fields. Some are more famous than others, but all have interesting and inspirational stories to discover. This book will encourage your middle grade reader to envision a life in science.
What I Know Now, edited by Ellyn Spragins, $2.99. Do you ever wish you could go back and give your younger self some advice? This book is based on that premise. Forty women who have accomplished great things have written letters to their younger selves. Each has unique insight. If you’re familiar with the woman writing, the letter can offer interesting background, but the lessons are broadly applicable.
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.”
Chalk, by Bill Thomson, $0.99. This is a picture book with no words, perfect for kids who would like to make up the story on their own. Or, if you have a kid like mine, who really loves words and reading, it may be deeply unsettling. Use your best judgment. Told through gorgeous, realistic illustrations, Chalk is the story of what happens one day when kids’ chalk drawings come to life.
Pride and Prejudice and Zombies, by Jane Austen and Seth Grahame-Smith, $1.99. You’re either going to love this or hate it. Seth Grahame-Smith has expanded Austen’s classic novel to add in scenes of a zombie plague in Meryton. More than 80% of Austen’s original text remains, with modern and gruesome enhancements. This is an over-the-top parody that also seriously addresses some of the interesting details and side plots of the original work. It’s ridiculous, yes, but also fairly entertaining and fodder for an excellent discussion about literary adaptations. If this sounds like your kind of thing, you may also want to check out Sense and Sensibility and Sea Monsters.
Lives in Ruins: Archaeologists and the Seductive Lure of Human Rubble, by Marilyn Johnson, $1.99. Indiana Jones is by far the most famous and exciting archaeologist, running through the jungle digging up bones and fighting off Nazis. But what does the job a real archaeologist look like? Johnson spends time with archaeologists doing work around the world to discover the sweat, cultural discussions, and technology that shape modern research.
Before They Were Authors: Famous Writers as Kids, by Elizabeth Haidle, $2.99. This charming graphic novel tells the stories of many famous authors when they were kids. The backgrounds are varied and interesting, and the illustrations look both cute and historical. This stories will inspire kids and make them consider whether they could become famous writers too.
Other Words For Home, by Jasmine Warga, $1.99. This middle grade story about a Syrian girl moving to Cincinnati is a tough but lovely read. Told in lyrical verse through Jude’s eyes, Other Words For Home traces her path from Aleppo to the U.S., her confusion about the differences in American customs, and her path to how she will fit into her new home. Read this book for a great opportunity to see the world from a new perspective.
A Closed and Common Orbit, by Becky Chambers, $1.99. This is the award-winning second book in a scifi series, but it can be read as a standalone. Chambers writes space opera scifi that really focuses on relationships between the characters. The plot is complicated, so I’ll let the publisher describe it: “Lovelace was once merely a ship’s artificial intelligence. When she wakes up in a new body, following a total system shut-down and reboot, she has no memory of what came before. As Lovelace learns to negotiate the universe and discover who she is, she makes friends with Pepper, an excitable engineer, who’s determined to help her learn and grow. Together, Pepper and Lovey will discover that no matter how vast space is, two people can fill it together.”
Don’t Know Much About Mythology, by Kenneth C. Davis, $2.99. I’m sure my HSL readers know a lot of things about mythology, but this book is pretty comprehensive. Davis looks at myths from around the world. Dig deeper than Greeks and Romans to learn about Druid myths, Incan gods, and more.
Better Than Normal: How What Makes You Different Can Make You Exceptional, by Dale Archer, $4.99. I have not read this, but the concept sounds intriguing. Dr. Archer looks at 8 common behavior traits that can be problematic when extreme to discover the ways they can also be beneficial. He suggests that attentiveness, anxiety, shyness, and other issues lie along a spectrum. Everyone’s personality is shaped by one or more of these traits, and Archer offers ways to harness them to work for you.
Raising a Sensory Smart Child, by Lindsey Biel and Nancy Peske, $4.99. This recently revised book is a great resource for parents of children with sensory sensitivities. The authors provide detailed information on the science behind sensory issues, then offer practical tips for dealing with the challenges that can come with sensory avoidance or seeking. Practical suggestions about the learning environment will be helpful to homeschoolers and those trying to partner with a school to meet a child’s needs.
A History of the World in 100 Objects, by Neil MacGregor, $4.99. This book is fantastic! I own the giant doorstop that is the print edition, and it sits in my living room at all times as a handy reference or exploration guide. The title is fairly descriptive. MacGregor has gathered a collection of artifacts from all over the world that illustrate some major stops in the human journey of innovation. From early jewelry to cookware to the modern credit card, each object’s significance is carefully described. This is the kind of book you can read sequentially or dip into when curious about a time period or geographic area.
Lord of the Flies, by William Golding, $1.99. This is a classic of coming-of-age literature found on many high school curricula. A group of boys is stranded on an island after a school trip gone horribly wrong. With no adults to guide them, they must govern themselves and find a way off of the island. They have some remarkable successes and some very memorable failures. Read this book to start a discussion of human nature.
How to Be a Happier Parent, by KJ Dell’Antonia, $4.99. I’ve really enjoyed Dell’Antonia’s New York Times parenting column. This book collects and connects some of the recurring themes about how to find a greater sense of happiness and peace through the parenting journey. From the publisher: In this optimistic, solution-packed book, KJ asks: How can we change our family life so that it is full of the joy we'd always hoped for? Drawing from the latest research and interviews with families, KJ discovers that it's possible to do more by doing less, and make our family life a refuge and pleasure, rather than another stress point in a hectic day. She focuses on nine common problem spots that cause parents the most grief, explores why they are hard, and offers small, doable, sometimes surprising steps you can take to make them better.
Moby-Duck: The True Story of 28,800 Bath Toys Lost at Sea & of the Beachcombers, Oceanographers, Environmentalists & Fools Including the Author Who Went in Search of Them, by Donovan Hohn, $4.99. A few years ago, an entire shipping container full of rubber ducks went missing in transit. The ducks were carried along by ocean currents and began showing up on beaches around the world. Donovan Hohn decided to track down some ducks and find out more about the natural forces behind the story. He learned way more than he expected. This book follows him on what became an epic adventure into ocean currents, shipping conglomerates, global economics, and more.
The Savage Garden: Cultivating Carnivorous Plants, by Peter D’Amato, $4.99. No, we are not talking about the ‘90s band, we are talking about plants that eat insects and other small creatures. My kid has been fascinated by meat-eating plants for years; they go against the basic biology we teach small children. This book describes in great detail the most common types of carnivorous plants and how you might grow them at home. With a chapter called “Other Savage Plants from the Demented Mind of Mother Nature,” this book feels perfect for some spooky fall reading. The well-researched plant descriptions and beautiful photos make this book an interesting pick even if you have no intention of growing your own carnivorous plants.
Catherine, Called Birdy, by Karen Cushman, $3.99. From our Great Epistolary Novels list: It’s problematic, of course, to pretend that we can understand what might have gone on in the head 14th century girl, but Cushman makes a solid effort here, and this novel — which takes the form of Catherine’s journal — paints a fascinating (and well researched) picture of medieval life. Catherine doesn’t have a lot of agency: She’s going to have to do what her father says, including marrying the man he’s picked out for her, however much she might rebel against the idea in her diary. That rebelling feels a little anachronistic, but I’m not sure a middle grades reader would be able to identify with Catherine at all without it so I think it’s an understandable conceit. If you’re studying the Middle Ages any time soon, you will definitely want to have this one on your list.
Daughters of the Night Sky, by Aimie K. Runyan, $4.99. This novel highlights a lesser known story of WWI, that of the Russian Night Witches. This all female regiment of pilots terrorizes the Nazis, flying dangerous but crucial missions. Runyan takes readers along on the harrowing flights, then considers how life must change once the war is over.
The Final Six, by Alexandra Monir, $1.99. This exciting YA novel reads somewhat like The Martian, but with teens in the main roles. From the publisher: When Leo and Naomi are drafted, along with twenty-two of the world’s brightest teenagers, into the International Space Training Camp, their lives are forever changed. Overnight, they become global celebrities in contention for one of the six slots to travel to Europa—Jupiter’s moon—and establish a new colony, leaving their planet forever. With Earth irreparably damaged, the future of the human race rests on their shoulders. For Leo, an Italian championship swimmer, this kind of purpose is a reason to go on after losing his family. But Naomi, an Iranian-American science genius, is suspicious of the ISTC and the fact that a similar mission failed under mysterious circumstances, killing the astronauts onboard. She fears something equally sinister awaiting the Final Six beneath Europa’s surface.
Ingredients: A Visual Exploration of 75 Additives and 25 Food Products, by Dwight Eschliman and Steve Ettinger, $0.99. What is really in the food we eat? What is caramel color, anyway? What does xanthan gum actually do, and where does it come from? This fascinating collaboration between a photographer and a science writer will answer all of these questions and more. They break down all the ingredients in more than two dozen common foods to explain how all the pieces fit together. You may never look at Cool Ranch Doritos the same way, but you’ll enjoy learning about the process!
Unfamiliar Fishes, by Sarah Vowell, $4.99. I’ve loved Sarah Vowell since I first heard her contributions to This American Life. Her quirky history books cover unusual topics in her signature quippy style. This book takes on the Americanization of Hawaii, from the first settlers to the annexation. It’s a story of imperialism, native culture, and more.
What She Ate: Six Remarkable Women and the Food that Tells Their Stories, by Laura Shapiro, $4.99. This is biography told in a very different way; it absolutely fascinates me. From the publisher: What She Ate is a lively and unpredictable array of women; what they have in common with one another (and us) is a powerful relationship with food. They include Dorothy Wordsworth, whose food story transforms our picture of the life she shared with her famous poet brother; Rosa Lewis, the Edwardian-era Cockney caterer who cooked her way up the social ladder; Eleanor Roosevelt, First Lady and rigorous protector of the worst cook in White House history; Eva Braun, Hitler’s mistress, who challenges our warm associations of food, family, and table; Barbara Pym, whose witty books upend a host of stereotypes about postwar British cuisine; and Helen Gurley Brown, the editor of Cosmopolitan, whose commitment to “having it all” meant having almost nothing on the plate except a supersized portion of diet gelatin.
Monsters You Should Know, by Emma Sancartier, $1.99. This is the cutest book about horrifying monsters that you will ever see. Truly creepy monsters from folklore around the world are illustrated in a scary but still somehow charming style. This is a picture book, but probably best for ages 8+. You could shape an interesting unit study around researching these monsters.
Bliss, by Kathryn Littlewood, $3.99. The Bliss family runs a popular bakery with a secret: many of the recipes come from the family’s magic “Cookery Booke,” an ancient and powerful resource. Rosemary Bliss is looking after her siblings while her parents go out of town, leaving strict instructions not to open the book without supervision. When mysterious Aunt Lily shows up unexpectedly, the kids don’t think it would be too problematic to make some recipes from the book for her. What could possibly go wrong? This middle grade book is warm, funny, and packed with delicious details.
Guitar Zero, by Gary Marcus, $4.99. You’re never too old, or too young, to learn music. Gary Marcus was nearly 40 when he decided he wanted to learn the guitar despite having little musical experience or skill. Marcus is a scientist, and he describes both his personal musical journey and the science behind how the brain integrates new skills.
The Read-Aloud Handbook, by Jim Trelease, $4.99. Every household should have a copy of this book, a guide to awesome books to read with children. The first half of the book explain why you should read aloud to the children in your life. There are sections on problem solving for reluctant readers or listeners, as well as a section specifically on getting dads involved in the reading process. The second half of the book is a giant compendium of read-aloud books. Each book listed has a short summary, suggested age group, notes about any sensitive topics, and a list of related books. This edition was released in 2013; an updated version was just published, but it is not on sale.
Ivy and Bean Books 1-3, by Annie Barrows, $1.99. These sweet and funny stories are perfect for your new reader. My daughter has moved far beyond this series, but still often picks up one of these books to reread in a single sitting. From my junior reviewer: “I really love these books because the characters are believably drawn with just the right amount of humor. They tie in hilarious and unusual circumstances, including magic sometimes, with things I have experienced. They have a very specific sense of humor, which I share, and I can relate to almost all of the characters.”
The House in Poplar Wood, by K.E. Ormsbee, $1.99. When I saw this book described as “Haunted Mansion meets Stranger Things,” I was totally hooked. The publisher has written a better summary than I possibly could: “For as long as the Vickery twins can remember, Lee and his mother have served Memory, while Felix and his father assist Death. This is the Agreement. But one Halloween, Gretchen Whipple smashes her way into their lives. Her bargain is simple: If the twins help her solve the murder of local girl Essie Hasting, she'll help them break the Agreement. The more the three investigate, however, the more they realize that something's gone terribly wrong in their town. Death is on the loose, and if history repeats itself, Essie's might not be the last murder in Poplar Wood. Simultaneously heartwarming and delightfully spooky, The House in Poplar Wood is a story about a boy's desire to be free, a girl's desire to make a difference, and a family's desire to be together again.”
Emily’s Runaway Imagination, by Beverly Cleary, $4.99. This is a charming but lesser-known middle grade book from beloved children’s author Beverly Cleary. Emily reminds me of Pippi Longstocking without the clearly impossible situations. From the publisher: “Spunky Emily Bartlett lives in an old farmhouse in Pitchfork, Oregon'at a time when automobiles are brand-new inventions and libraries are a luxury few small towns can afford. Her runaway imagination leads her to bleach a horse, hold a very scary sleepover, and feed the hogs an unusual treat. But can she use her lively mind to help bring a library to Pitchfork?”
Tangled in Time: The Portal, by Kathryn Lasky, $1.99. This charming middle grade novel is a time travel story. Rose finds a time portal in her grandmother’s greenhouse that transports her to the the court of Henry VIII. She befriends the young Princess Elizabeth and discovers a mysterious locket that may hold a secret connecting Rose to the Tudor world.
Dear Data, by Giogia Lupi and Stefanie Posavec, $2.99. This book has a fascinating concept: two friends in different countries sent each other a postcard every week for a year. Every week had a theme, and the two friends recorded data about their lives and created a way to represent it visually. The result is more than 100 postcards illustrating the details of their lives. You’ll find this a great discussion starter about ways to visually represent ideas.
Talking Across the Divide: How to Communicate with People You Disagree with and Maybe Even Change the World, by Justin Lee, $4.99. I run a large homeschool co-op, which puts me in the position to get to know a wide variety of people. Books like Talking Across the Divide in invaluable in the current political climate for helping people find ways to connect.
The Mermaid’s Sister, by Carrie Anne Noble, $3.99. 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 Hero’s Guide to Saving Your Kingdom, by Christopher Healy, $1.99. You think you know the classic fairytale stories, but they are usually centered around the princesses. This fun middle grade series focuses on the princes. After the “happily ever after” the princes discover that their kingdoms are in danger, and they set off take on all kinds of mythical monsters. This fun and funny book is the first in a series that your middle-grade reader will love.
The Mind’s Eye, by Oliver Sacks, $4.99. What would your life be like if you lost a fundamental part of your sensory experience? Neuroscientist Oliver Sacks explores what makes us who we are in this collection of profiles. From the concert pianist who loses the ability to read music to the woman who finds herself unable to speak, Sacks deftly recreates the breadth of human experience.
Cut in Half: The Hidden World of Everyday Objects, by Mike 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.)
Art Before Breakfast: A Zillion Ways to be More Creative No Matter How Busy You Are, by Danny Gregory, $2.99. My daughter loves doing art, and fills lots of her spare time making things. I’ve never considered myself an artist and struggle to find time to develop my skills. This book is a great place to start. Danny Gregory has created short, fun activities that take 10 minutes or less. They will encourage you to make art a regular part of your life. This book is a great way to add some art education to your homeschool, or to carve out a bit of time for your own creativity.
50 Inventions That Shaped the Modern Economy, by Tim Harford, $4.99. I love this kind of book, a history through specific objects. Here’s how the publisher describes it: “Fifty Inventions That Shaped the Modern Economy paints an epic picture of change in an intimate way by telling the stories of the tools, people, and ideas that had far-reaching consequences for all of us. From the plough to artificial intelligence, from Gillette’s disposable razor to IKEA’s Billy bookcase, bestselling author and Financial Times columnist Tim Harford recounts each invention’s own curious, surprising, and memorable story.”
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.)
Hamstersaurus Rex, by Tom O’Donnell, $1.99. Is this another creepy book for Halloween? Yes and no. This wild middle school story will entertain and delight while still addressing some tougher emotional issues. From the publisher: “When a mysterious growling hamster appears at the back of his class, Sam knows just what to call him: Hamstersaurus Rex. Sam tries to protect Hammie from an overzealous Hamster Monitor, and from the meanest bully in the history of Horace Hotwater Middle School. The bully isn’t afraid of some weird little class pet. But maybe he should be. Hamstersaurus Rex is no ordinary hamster.”
Kindle Deals for November 4, 2019
Today’s Kindle deals include women in science, delicious and diabolical magic, and advice to a younger self.
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.)
BIG NEWS! We now have an email list to send you a reminder each time we post new deals to the website. If you’d like to make sure you never miss a deal, sign up here.
Black Women in Science, by Kimberly Brown Pellum, $0.99. This delightful collection of biographies profiles scientists in many fields. Some are more famous than others, but all have interesting and inspirational stories to discover. This book will encourage your middle grade reader to envision a life in science.
What I Know Now, edited by Ellyn Spragins, $2.99. Do you ever wish you could go back and give your younger self some advice? This book is based on that premise. Forty women who have accomplished great things have written letters to their younger selves. Each has unique insight. If you’re familiar with the woman writing, the letter can offer interesting background, but the lessons are broadly applicable.
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.”
STILL ON SALE
Chalk, by Bill Thomson, $0.99. This is a picture book with no words, perfect for kids who would like to make up the story on their own. Or, if you have a kid like mine, who really loves words and reading, it may be deeply unsettling. Use your best judgment. Told through gorgeous, realistic illustrations, Chalk is the story of what happens one day when kids’ chalk drawings come to life.
Pride and Prejudice and Zombies, by Jane Austen and Seth Grahame-Smith, $1.99. You’re either going to love this or hate it. Seth Grahame-Smith has expanded Austen’s classic novel to add in scenes of a zombie plague in Meryton. More than 80% of Austen’s original text remains, with modern and gruesome enhancements. This is an over-the-top parody that also seriously addresses some of the interesting details and side plots of the original work. It’s ridiculous, yes, but also fairly entertaining and fodder for an excellent discussion about literary adaptations. If this sounds like your kind of thing, you may also want to check out Sense and Sensibility and Sea Monsters.
Lives in Ruins: Archaeologists and the Seductive Lure of Human Rubble, by Marilyn Johnson, $1.99. Indiana Jones is by far the most famous and exciting archaeologist, running through the jungle digging up bones and fighting off Nazis. But what does the job a real archaeologist look like? Johnson spends time with archaeologists doing work around the world to discover the sweat, cultural discussions, and technology that shape modern research.
Before They Were Authors: Famous Writers as Kids, by Elizabeth Haidle, $2.99. This charming graphic novel tells the stories of many famous authors when they were kids. The backgrounds are varied and interesting, and the illustrations look both cute and historical. This stories will inspire kids and make them consider whether they could become famous writers too.
Other Words For Home, by Jasmine Warga, $1.99. This middle grade story about a Syrian girl moving to Cincinnati is a tough but lovely read. Told in lyrical verse through Jude’s eyes, Other Words For Home traces her path from Aleppo to the U.S., her confusion about the differences in American customs, and her path to how she will fit into her new home. Read this book for a great opportunity to see the world from a new perspective.
A Closed and Common Orbit, by Becky Chambers, $1.99. This is the award-winning second book in a scifi series, but it can be read as a standalone. Chambers writes space opera scifi that really focuses on relationships between the characters. The plot is complicated, so I’ll let the publisher describe it: “Lovelace was once merely a ship’s artificial intelligence. When she wakes up in a new body, following a total system shut-down and reboot, she has no memory of what came before. As Lovelace learns to negotiate the universe and discover who she is, she makes friends with Pepper, an excitable engineer, who’s determined to help her learn and grow. Together, Pepper and Lovey will discover that no matter how vast space is, two people can fill it together.”
Don’t Know Much About Mythology, by Kenneth C. Davis, $2.99. I’m sure my HSL readers know a lot of things about mythology, but this book is pretty comprehensive. Davis looks at myths from around the world. Dig deeper than Greeks and Romans to learn about Druid myths, Incan gods, and more.
Better Than Normal: How What Makes You Different Can Make You Exceptional, by Dale Archer, $4.99. I have not read this, but the concept sounds intriguing. Dr. Archer looks at 8 common behavior traits that can be problematic when extreme to discover the ways they can also be beneficial. He suggests that attentiveness, anxiety, shyness, and other issues lie along a spectrum. Everyone’s personality is shaped by one or more of these traits, and Archer offers ways to harness them to work for you.
Raising a Sensory Smart Child, by Lindsey Biel and Nancy Peske, $4.99. This recently revised book is a great resource for parents of children with sensory sensitivities. The authors provide detailed information on the science behind sensory issues, then offer practical tips for dealing with the challenges that can come with sensory avoidance or seeking. Practical suggestions about the learning environment will be helpful to homeschoolers and those trying to partner with a school to meet a child’s needs.
A History of the World in 100 Objects, by Neil MacGregor, $4.99. This book is fantastic! I own the giant doorstop that is the print edition, and it sits in my living room at all times as a handy reference or exploration guide. The title is fairly descriptive. MacGregor has gathered a collection of artifacts from all over the world that illustrate some major stops in the human journey of innovation. From early jewelry to cookware to the modern credit card, each object’s significance is carefully described. This is the kind of book you can read sequentially or dip into when curious about a time period or geographic area.
Lord of the Flies, by William Golding, $1.99. This is a classic of coming-of-age literature found on many high school curricula. A group of boys is stranded on an island after a school trip gone horribly wrong. With no adults to guide them, they must govern themselves and find a way off of the island. They have some remarkable successes and some very memorable failures. Read this book to start a discussion of human nature.
How to Be a Happier Parent, by KJ Dell’Antonia, $4.99. I’ve really enjoyed Dell’Antonia’s New York Times parenting column. This book collects and connects some of the recurring themes about how to find a greater sense of happiness and peace through the parenting journey. From the publisher: In this optimistic, solution-packed book, KJ asks: How can we change our family life so that it is full of the joy we'd always hoped for? Drawing from the latest research and interviews with families, KJ discovers that it's possible to do more by doing less, and make our family life a refuge and pleasure, rather than another stress point in a hectic day. She focuses on nine common problem spots that cause parents the most grief, explores why they are hard, and offers small, doable, sometimes surprising steps you can take to make them better.
Moby-Duck: The True Story of 28,800 Bath Toys Lost at Sea & of the Beachcombers, Oceanographers, Environmentalists & Fools Including the Author Who Went in Search of Them, by Donovan Hohn, $4.99. A few years ago, an entire shipping container full of rubber ducks went missing in transit. The ducks were carried along by ocean currents and began showing up on beaches around the world. Donovan Hohn decided to track down some ducks and find out more about the natural forces behind the story. He learned way more than he expected. This book follows him on what became an epic adventure into ocean currents, shipping conglomerates, global economics, and more.
The Savage Garden: Cultivating Carnivorous Plants, by Peter D’Amato, $4.99. No, we are not talking about the ‘90s band, we are talking about plants that eat insects and other small creatures. My kid has been fascinated by meat-eating plants for years; they go against the basic biology we teach small children. This book describes in great detail the most common types of carnivorous plants and how you might grow them at home. With a chapter called “Other Savage Plants from the Demented Mind of Mother Nature,” this book feels perfect for some spooky fall reading. The well-researched plant descriptions and beautiful photos make this book an interesting pick even if you have no intention of growing your own carnivorous plants.
Catherine, Called Birdy, by Karen Cushman, $3.99. From our Great Epistolary Novels list: It’s problematic, of course, to pretend that we can understand what might have gone on in the head 14th century girl, but Cushman makes a solid effort here, and this novel — which takes the form of Catherine’s journal — paints a fascinating (and well researched) picture of medieval life. Catherine doesn’t have a lot of agency: She’s going to have to do what her father says, including marrying the man he’s picked out for her, however much she might rebel against the idea in her diary. That rebelling feels a little anachronistic, but I’m not sure a middle grades reader would be able to identify with Catherine at all without it so I think it’s an understandable conceit. If you’re studying the Middle Ages any time soon, you will definitely want to have this one on your list.
Daughters of the Night Sky, by Aimie K. Runyan, $4.99. This novel highlights a lesser known story of WWI, that of the Russian Night Witches. This all female regiment of pilots terrorizes the Nazis, flying dangerous but crucial missions. Runyan takes readers along on the harrowing flights, then considers how life must change once the war is over.
The Final Six, by Alexandra Monir, $1.99. This exciting YA novel reads somewhat like The Martian, but with teens in the main roles. From the publisher: When Leo and Naomi are drafted, along with twenty-two of the world’s brightest teenagers, into the International Space Training Camp, their lives are forever changed. Overnight, they become global celebrities in contention for one of the six slots to travel to Europa—Jupiter’s moon—and establish a new colony, leaving their planet forever. With Earth irreparably damaged, the future of the human race rests on their shoulders. For Leo, an Italian championship swimmer, this kind of purpose is a reason to go on after losing his family. But Naomi, an Iranian-American science genius, is suspicious of the ISTC and the fact that a similar mission failed under mysterious circumstances, killing the astronauts onboard. She fears something equally sinister awaiting the Final Six beneath Europa’s surface.
Ingredients: A Visual Exploration of 75 Additives and 25 Food Products, by Dwight Eschliman and Steve Ettinger, $0.99. What is really in the food we eat? What is caramel color, anyway? What does xanthan gum actually do, and where does it come from? This fascinating collaboration between a photographer and a science writer will answer all of these questions and more. They break down all the ingredients in more than two dozen common foods to explain how all the pieces fit together. You may never look at Cool Ranch Doritos the same way, but you’ll enjoy learning about the process!
Unfamiliar Fishes, by Sarah Vowell, $4.99. I’ve loved Sarah Vowell since I first heard her contributions to This American Life. Her quirky history books cover unusual topics in her signature quippy style. This book takes on the Americanization of Hawaii, from the first settlers to the annexation. It’s a story of imperialism, native culture, and more.
What She Ate: Six Remarkable Women and the Food that Tells Their Stories, by Laura Shapiro, $4.99. This is biography told in a very different way; it absolutely fascinates me. From the publisher: What She Ate is a lively and unpredictable array of women; what they have in common with one another (and us) is a powerful relationship with food. They include Dorothy Wordsworth, whose food story transforms our picture of the life she shared with her famous poet brother; Rosa Lewis, the Edwardian-era Cockney caterer who cooked her way up the social ladder; Eleanor Roosevelt, First Lady and rigorous protector of the worst cook in White House history; Eva Braun, Hitler’s mistress, who challenges our warm associations of food, family, and table; Barbara Pym, whose witty books upend a host of stereotypes about postwar British cuisine; and Helen Gurley Brown, the editor of Cosmopolitan, whose commitment to “having it all” meant having almost nothing on the plate except a supersized portion of diet gelatin.
Monsters You Should Know, by Emma Sancartier, $1.99. This is the cutest book about horrifying monsters that you will ever see. Truly creepy monsters from folklore around the world are illustrated in a scary but still somehow charming style. This is a picture book, but probably best for ages 8+. You could shape an interesting unit study around researching these monsters.
Bliss, by Kathryn Littlewood, $3.99. The Bliss family runs a popular bakery with a secret: many of the recipes come from the family’s magic “Cookery Booke,” an ancient and powerful resource. Rosemary Bliss is looking after her siblings while her parents go out of town, leaving strict instructions not to open the book without supervision. When mysterious Aunt Lily shows up unexpectedly, the kids don’t think it would be too problematic to make some recipes from the book for her. What could possibly go wrong? This middle grade book is warm, funny, and packed with delicious details.
Guitar Zero, by Gary Marcus, $4.99. You’re never too old, or too young, to learn music. Gary Marcus was nearly 40 when he decided he wanted to learn the guitar despite having little musical experience or skill. Marcus is a scientist, and he describes both his personal musical journey and the science behind how the brain integrates new skills.
The Read-Aloud Handbook, by Jim Trelease, $4.99. Every household should have a copy of this book, a guide to awesome books to read with children. The first half of the book explain why you should read aloud to the children in your life. There are sections on problem solving for reluctant readers or listeners, as well as a section specifically on getting dads involved in the reading process. The second half of the book is a giant compendium of read-aloud books. Each book listed has a short summary, suggested age group, notes about any sensitive topics, and a list of related books. This edition was released in 2013; an updated version was just published, but it is not on sale.
Ivy and Bean Books 1-3, by Annie Barrows, $1.99. These sweet and funny stories are perfect for your new reader. My daughter has moved far beyond this series, but still often picks up one of these books to reread in a single sitting. From my junior reviewer: “I really love these books because the characters are believably drawn with just the right amount of humor. They tie in hilarious and unusual circumstances, including magic sometimes, with things I have experienced. They have a very specific sense of humor, which I share, and I can relate to almost all of the characters.”
The House in Poplar Wood, by K.E. Ormsbee, $1.99. When I saw this book described as “Haunted Mansion meets Stranger Things,” I was totally hooked. The publisher has written a better summary than I possibly could: “For as long as the Vickery twins can remember, Lee and his mother have served Memory, while Felix and his father assist Death. This is the Agreement. But one Halloween, Gretchen Whipple smashes her way into their lives. Her bargain is simple: If the twins help her solve the murder of local girl Essie Hasting, she'll help them break the Agreement. The more the three investigate, however, the more they realize that something's gone terribly wrong in their town. Death is on the loose, and if history repeats itself, Essie's might not be the last murder in Poplar Wood. Simultaneously heartwarming and delightfully spooky, The House in Poplar Wood is a story about a boy's desire to be free, a girl's desire to make a difference, and a family's desire to be together again.”
Emily’s Runaway Imagination, by Beverly Cleary, $4.99. This is a charming but lesser-known middle grade book from beloved children’s author Beverly Cleary. Emily reminds me of Pippi Longstocking without the clearly impossible situations. From the publisher: “Spunky Emily Bartlett lives in an old farmhouse in Pitchfork, Oregon'at a time when automobiles are brand-new inventions and libraries are a luxury few small towns can afford. Her runaway imagination leads her to bleach a horse, hold a very scary sleepover, and feed the hogs an unusual treat. But can she use her lively mind to help bring a library to Pitchfork?”
Tangled in Time: The Portal, by Kathryn Lasky, $1.99. This charming middle grade novel is a time travel story. Rose finds a time portal in her grandmother’s greenhouse that transports her to the the court of Henry VIII. She befriends the young Princess Elizabeth and discovers a mysterious locket that may hold a secret connecting Rose to the Tudor world.
Dear Data, by Giogia Lupi and Stefanie Posavec, $2.99. This book has a fascinating concept: two friends in different countries sent each other a postcard every week for a year. Every week had a theme, and the two friends recorded data about their lives and created a way to represent it visually. The result is more than 100 postcards illustrating the details of their lives. You’ll find this a great discussion starter about ways to visually represent ideas.
Talking Across the Divide: How to Communicate with People You Disagree with and Maybe Even Change the World, by Justin Lee, $4.99. I run a large homeschool co-op, which puts me in the position to get to know a wide variety of people. Books like Talking Across the Divide in invaluable in the current political climate for helping people find ways to connect.
The Mermaid’s Sister, by Carrie Anne Noble, $3.99. 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 Hero’s Guide to Saving Your Kingdom, by Christopher Healy, $1.99. You think you know the classic fairytale stories, but they are usually centered around the princesses. This fun middle grade series focuses on the princes. After the “happily ever after” the princes discover that their kingdoms are in danger, and they set off take on all kinds of mythical monsters. This fun and funny book is the first in a series that your middle-grade reader will love.
The Mind’s Eye, by Oliver Sacks, $4.99. What would your life be like if you lost a fundamental part of your sensory experience? Neuroscientist Oliver Sacks explores what makes us who we are in this collection of profiles. From the concert pianist who loses the ability to read music to the woman who finds herself unable to speak, Sacks deftly recreates the breadth of human experience.
Cut in Half: The Hidden World of Everyday Objects, by Mike 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.)
Art Before Breakfast: A Zillion Ways to be More Creative No Matter How Busy You Are, by Danny Gregory, $2.99. My daughter loves doing art, and fills lots of her spare time making things. I’ve never considered myself an artist and struggle to find time to develop my skills. This book is a great place to start. Danny Gregory has created short, fun activities that take 10 minutes or less. They will encourage you to make art a regular part of your life. This book is a great way to add some art education to your homeschool, or to carve out a bit of time for your own creativity.
50 Inventions That Shaped the Modern Economy, by Tim Harford, $4.99. I love this kind of book, a history through specific objects. Here’s how the publisher describes it: “Fifty Inventions That Shaped the Modern Economy paints an epic picture of change in an intimate way by telling the stories of the tools, people, and ideas that had far-reaching consequences for all of us. From the plough to artificial intelligence, from Gillette’s disposable razor to IKEA’s Billy bookcase, bestselling author and Financial Times columnist Tim Harford recounts each invention’s own curious, surprising, and memorable story.”
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.)
Hamstersaurus Rex, by Tom O’Donnell, $1.99. Is this another creepy book for Halloween? Yes and no. This wild middle school story will entertain and delight while still addressing some tougher emotional issues. From the publisher: “When a mysterious growling hamster appears at the back of his class, Sam knows just what to call him: Hamstersaurus Rex. Sam tries to protect Hammie from an overzealous Hamster Monitor, and from the meanest bully in the history of Horace Hotwater Middle School. The bully isn’t afraid of some weird little class pet. But maybe he should be. Hamstersaurus Rex is no ordinary hamster.”
Kindle Deals for November 3, 2019
Today’s Kindle deals include magical storytelling, archaeology, and zombies.
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.)
BIG NEWS! We now have an email list to send you a reminder each time we post new deals to the website. If you’d like to make sure you never miss a deal, sign up here.
Chalk, by Bill Thomson, $0.99. This is a picture book with no words, perfect for kids who would like to make up the story on their own. Or, if you have a kid like mine, who really loves words and reading, it may be deeply unsettling. Use your best judgment. Told through gorgeous, realistic illustrations, Chalk is the story of what happens one day when kids’ chalk drawings come to life.
Pride and Prejudice and Zombies, by Jane Austen and Seth Grahame-Smith, $1.99. You’re either going to love this or hate it. Seth Grahame-Smith has expanded Austen’s classic novel to add in scenes of a zombie plague in Meryton. More than 80% of Austen’s original text remains, with modern and gruesome enhancements. This is an over-the-top parody that also seriously addresses some of the interesting details and side plots of the original work. It’s ridiculous, yes, but also fairly entertaining and fodder for an excellent discussion about literary adaptations. If this sounds like your kind of thing, you may also want to check out Sense and Sensibility and Sea Monsters.
Lives in Ruins: Archaeologists and the Seductive Lure of Human Rubble, by Marilyn Johnson, $1.99. Indiana Jones is by far the most famous and exciting archaeologist, running through the jungle digging up bones and fighting off Nazis. But what does the job a real archaeologist look like? Johnson spends time with archaeologists doing work around the world to discover the sweat, cultural discussions, and technology that shape modern research.
STILL ON SALE
Before They Were Authors: Famous Writers as Kids, by Elizabeth Haidle, $2.99. This charming graphic novel tells the stories of many famous authors when they were kids. The backgrounds are varied and interesting, and the illustrations look both cute and historical. This stories will inspire kids and make them consider whether they could become famous writers too.
Other Words For Home, by Jasmine Warga, $1.99. This middle grade story about a Syrian girl moving to Cincinnati is a tough but lovely read. Told in lyrical verse through Jude’s eyes, Other Words For Home traces her path from Aleppo to the U.S., her confusion about the differences in American customs, and her path to how she will fit into her new home. Read this book for a great opportunity to see the world from a new perspective.
A Closed and Common Orbit, by Becky Chambers, $1.99. This is the award-winning second book in a scifi series, but it can be read as a standalone. Chambers writes space opera scifi that really focuses on relationships between the characters. The plot is complicated, so I’ll let the publisher describe it: “Lovelace was once merely a ship’s artificial intelligence. When she wakes up in a new body, following a total system shut-down and reboot, she has no memory of what came before. As Lovelace learns to negotiate the universe and discover who she is, she makes friends with Pepper, an excitable engineer, who’s determined to help her learn and grow. Together, Pepper and Lovey will discover that no matter how vast space is, two people can fill it together.”
Don’t Know Much About Mythology, by Kenneth C. Davis, $2.99. I’m sure my HSL readers know a lot of things about mythology, but this book is pretty comprehensive. Davis looks at myths from around the world. Dig deeper than Greeks and Romans to learn about Druid myths, Incan gods, and more.
Better Than Normal: How What Makes You Different Can Make You Exceptional, by Dale Archer, $4.99. I have not read this, but the concept sounds intriguing. Dr. Archer looks at 8 common behavior traits that can be problematic when extreme to discover the ways they can also be beneficial. He suggests that attentiveness, anxiety, shyness, and other issues lie along a spectrum. Everyone’s personality is shaped by one or more of these traits, and Archer offers ways to harness them to work for you.
Raising a Sensory Smart Child, by Lindsey Biel and Nancy Peske, $4.99. This recently revised book is a great resource for parents of children with sensory sensitivities. The authors provide detailed information on the science behind sensory issues, then offer practical tips for dealing with the challenges that can come with sensory avoidance or seeking. Practical suggestions about the learning environment will be helpful to homeschoolers and those trying to partner with a school to meet a child’s needs.
A History of the World in 100 Objects, by Neil MacGregor, $4.99. This book is fantastic! I own the giant doorstop that is the print edition, and it sits in my living room at all times as a handy reference or exploration guide. The title is fairly descriptive. MacGregor has gathered a collection of artifacts from all over the world that illustrate some major stops in the human journey of innovation. From early jewelry to cookware to the modern credit card, each object’s significance is carefully described. This is the kind of book you can read sequentially or dip into when curious about a time period or geographic area.
Lord of the Flies, by William Golding, $1.99. This is a classic of coming-of-age literature found on many high school curricula. A group of boys is stranded on an island after a school trip gone horribly wrong. With no adults to guide them, they must govern themselves and find a way off of the island. They have some remarkable successes and some very memorable failures. Read this book to start a discussion of human nature.
How to Be a Happier Parent, by KJ Dell’Antonia, $4.99. I’ve really enjoyed Dell’Antonia’s New York Times parenting column. This book collects and connects some of the recurring themes about how to find a greater sense of happiness and peace through the parenting journey. From the publisher: In this optimistic, solution-packed book, KJ asks: How can we change our family life so that it is full of the joy we'd always hoped for? Drawing from the latest research and interviews with families, KJ discovers that it's possible to do more by doing less, and make our family life a refuge and pleasure, rather than another stress point in a hectic day. She focuses on nine common problem spots that cause parents the most grief, explores why they are hard, and offers small, doable, sometimes surprising steps you can take to make them better.
Moby-Duck: The True Story of 28,800 Bath Toys Lost at Sea & of the Beachcombers, Oceanographers, Environmentalists & Fools Including the Author Who Went in Search of Them, by Donovan Hohn, $4.99. A few years ago, an entire shipping container full of rubber ducks went missing in transit. The ducks were carried along by ocean currents and began showing up on beaches around the world. Donovan Hohn decided to track down some ducks and find out more about the natural forces behind the story. He learned way more than he expected. This book follows him on what became an epic adventure into ocean currents, shipping conglomerates, global economics, and more.
The Savage Garden: Cultivating Carnivorous Plants, by Peter D’Amato, $4.99. No, we are not talking about the ‘90s band, we are talking about plants that eat insects and other small creatures. My kid has been fascinated by meat-eating plants for years; they go against the basic biology we teach small children. This book describes in great detail the most common types of carnivorous plants and how you might grow them at home. With a chapter called “Other Savage Plants from the Demented Mind of Mother Nature,” this book feels perfect for some spooky fall reading. The well-researched plant descriptions and beautiful photos make this book an interesting pick even if you have no intention of growing your own carnivorous plants.
Catherine, Called Birdy, by Karen Cushman, $3.99. From our Great Epistolary Novels list: It’s problematic, of course, to pretend that we can understand what might have gone on in the head 14th century girl, but Cushman makes a solid effort here, and this novel — which takes the form of Catherine’s journal — paints a fascinating (and well researched) picture of medieval life. Catherine doesn’t have a lot of agency: She’s going to have to do what her father says, including marrying the man he’s picked out for her, however much she might rebel against the idea in her diary. That rebelling feels a little anachronistic, but I’m not sure a middle grades reader would be able to identify with Catherine at all without it so I think it’s an understandable conceit. If you’re studying the Middle Ages any time soon, you will definitely want to have this one on your list.
Daughters of the Night Sky, by Aimie K. Runyan, $4.99. This novel highlights a lesser known story of WWI, that of the Russian Night Witches. This all female regiment of pilots terrorizes the Nazis, flying dangerous but crucial missions. Runyan takes readers along on the harrowing flights, then considers how life must change once the war is over.
The Final Six, by Alexandra Monir, $1.99. This exciting YA novel reads somewhat like The Martian, but with teens in the main roles. From the publisher: When Leo and Naomi are drafted, along with twenty-two of the world’s brightest teenagers, into the International Space Training Camp, their lives are forever changed. Overnight, they become global celebrities in contention for one of the six slots to travel to Europa—Jupiter’s moon—and establish a new colony, leaving their planet forever. With Earth irreparably damaged, the future of the human race rests on their shoulders. For Leo, an Italian championship swimmer, this kind of purpose is a reason to go on after losing his family. But Naomi, an Iranian-American science genius, is suspicious of the ISTC and the fact that a similar mission failed under mysterious circumstances, killing the astronauts onboard. She fears something equally sinister awaiting the Final Six beneath Europa’s surface.
Ingredients: A Visual Exploration of 75 Additives and 25 Food Products, by Dwight Eschliman and Steve Ettinger, $0.99. What is really in the food we eat? What is caramel color, anyway? What does xanthan gum actually do, and where does it come from? This fascinating collaboration between a photographer and a science writer will answer all of these questions and more. They break down all the ingredients in more than two dozen common foods to explain how all the pieces fit together. You may never look at Cool Ranch Doritos the same way, but you’ll enjoy learning about the process!
Unfamiliar Fishes, by Sarah Vowell, $4.99. I’ve loved Sarah Vowell since I first heard her contributions to This American Life. Her quirky history books cover unusual topics in her signature quippy style. This book takes on the Americanization of Hawaii, from the first settlers to the annexation. It’s a story of imperialism, native culture, and more.
What She Ate: Six Remarkable Women and the Food that Tells Their Stories, by Laura Shapiro, $4.99. This is biography told in a very different way; it absolutely fascinates me. From the publisher: What She Ate is a lively and unpredictable array of women; what they have in common with one another (and us) is a powerful relationship with food. They include Dorothy Wordsworth, whose food story transforms our picture of the life she shared with her famous poet brother; Rosa Lewis, the Edwardian-era Cockney caterer who cooked her way up the social ladder; Eleanor Roosevelt, First Lady and rigorous protector of the worst cook in White House history; Eva Braun, Hitler’s mistress, who challenges our warm associations of food, family, and table; Barbara Pym, whose witty books upend a host of stereotypes about postwar British cuisine; and Helen Gurley Brown, the editor of Cosmopolitan, whose commitment to “having it all” meant having almost nothing on the plate except a supersized portion of diet gelatin.
Monsters You Should Know, by Emma Sancartier, $1.99. This is the cutest book about horrifying monsters that you will ever see. Truly creepy monsters from folklore around the world are illustrated in a scary but still somehow charming style. This is a picture book, but probably best for ages 8+. You could shape an interesting unit study around researching these monsters.
Bliss, by Kathryn Littlewood, $3.99. The Bliss family runs a popular bakery with a secret: many of the recipes come from the family’s magic “Cookery Booke,” an ancient and powerful resource. Rosemary Bliss is looking after her siblings while her parents go out of town, leaving strict instructions not to open the book without supervision. When mysterious Aunt Lily shows up unexpectedly, the kids don’t think it would be too problematic to make some recipes from the book for her. What could possibly go wrong? This middle grade book is warm, funny, and packed with delicious details.
Guitar Zero, by Gary Marcus, $4.99. You’re never too old, or too young, to learn music. Gary Marcus was nearly 40 when he decided he wanted to learn the guitar despite having little musical experience or skill. Marcus is a scientist, and he describes both his personal musical journey and the science behind how the brain integrates new skills.
The Read-Aloud Handbook, by Jim Trelease, $4.99. Every household should have a copy of this book, a guide to awesome books to read with children. The first half of the book explain why you should read aloud to the children in your life. There are sections on problem solving for reluctant readers or listeners, as well as a section specifically on getting dads involved in the reading process. The second half of the book is a giant compendium of read-aloud books. Each book listed has a short summary, suggested age group, notes about any sensitive topics, and a list of related books. This edition was released in 2013; an updated version was just published, but it is not on sale.
Ivy and Bean Books 1-3, by Annie Barrows, $1.99. These sweet and funny stories are perfect for your new reader. My daughter has moved far beyond this series, but still often picks up one of these books to reread in a single sitting. From my junior reviewer: “I really love these books because the characters are believably drawn with just the right amount of humor. They tie in hilarious and unusual circumstances, including magic sometimes, with things I have experienced. They have a very specific sense of humor, which I share, and I can relate to almost all of the characters.”
The House in Poplar Wood, by K.E. Ormsbee, $1.99. When I saw this book described as “Haunted Mansion meets Stranger Things,” I was totally hooked. The publisher has written a better summary than I possibly could: “For as long as the Vickery twins can remember, Lee and his mother have served Memory, while Felix and his father assist Death. This is the Agreement. But one Halloween, Gretchen Whipple smashes her way into their lives. Her bargain is simple: If the twins help her solve the murder of local girl Essie Hasting, she'll help them break the Agreement. The more the three investigate, however, the more they realize that something's gone terribly wrong in their town. Death is on the loose, and if history repeats itself, Essie's might not be the last murder in Poplar Wood. Simultaneously heartwarming and delightfully spooky, The House in Poplar Wood is a story about a boy's desire to be free, a girl's desire to make a difference, and a family's desire to be together again.”
Emily’s Runaway Imagination, by Beverly Cleary, $4.99. This is a charming but lesser-known middle grade book from beloved children’s author Beverly Cleary. Emily reminds me of Pippi Longstocking without the clearly impossible situations. From the publisher: “Spunky Emily Bartlett lives in an old farmhouse in Pitchfork, Oregon'at a time when automobiles are brand-new inventions and libraries are a luxury few small towns can afford. Her runaway imagination leads her to bleach a horse, hold a very scary sleepover, and feed the hogs an unusual treat. But can she use her lively mind to help bring a library to Pitchfork?”
Tangled in Time: The Portal, by Kathryn Lasky, $1.99. This charming middle grade novel is a time travel story. Rose finds a time portal in her grandmother’s greenhouse that transports her to the the court of Henry VIII. She befriends the young Princess Elizabeth and discovers a mysterious locket that may hold a secret connecting Rose to the Tudor world.
Dear Data, by Giogia Lupi and Stefanie Posavec, $2.99. This book has a fascinating concept: two friends in different countries sent each other a postcard every week for a year. Every week had a theme, and the two friends recorded data about their lives and created a way to represent it visually. The result is more than 100 postcards illustrating the details of their lives. You’ll find this a great discussion starter about ways to visually represent ideas.
Talking Across the Divide: How to Communicate with People You Disagree with and Maybe Even Change the World, by Justin Lee, $4.99. I run a large homeschool co-op, which puts me in the position to get to know a wide variety of people. Books like Talking Across the Divide in invaluable in the current political climate for helping people find ways to connect.
The Mermaid’s Sister, by Carrie Anne Noble, $3.99. 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 Hero’s Guide to Saving Your Kingdom, by Christopher Healy, $1.99. You think you know the classic fairytale stories, but they are usually centered around the princesses. This fun middle grade series focuses on the princes. After the “happily ever after” the princes discover that their kingdoms are in danger, and they set off take on all kinds of mythical monsters. This fun and funny book is the first in a series that your middle-grade reader will love.
The Mind’s Eye, by Oliver Sacks, $4.99. What would your life be like if you lost a fundamental part of your sensory experience? Neuroscientist Oliver Sacks explores what makes us who we are in this collection of profiles. From the concert pianist who loses the ability to read music to the woman who finds herself unable to speak, Sacks deftly recreates the breadth of human experience.
Cut in Half: The Hidden World of Everyday Objects, by Mike 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.)
Art Before Breakfast: A Zillion Ways to be More Creative No Matter How Busy You Are, by Danny Gregory, $2.99. My daughter loves doing art, and fills lots of her spare time making things. I’ve never considered myself an artist and struggle to find time to develop my skills. This book is a great place to start. Danny Gregory has created short, fun activities that take 10 minutes or less. They will encourage you to make art a regular part of your life. This book is a great way to add some art education to your homeschool, or to carve out a bit of time for your own creativity.
50 Inventions That Shaped the Modern Economy, by Tim Harford, $4.99. I love this kind of book, a history through specific objects. Here’s how the publisher describes it: “Fifty Inventions That Shaped the Modern Economy paints an epic picture of change in an intimate way by telling the stories of the tools, people, and ideas that had far-reaching consequences for all of us. From the plough to artificial intelligence, from Gillette’s disposable razor to IKEA’s Billy bookcase, bestselling author and Financial Times columnist Tim Harford recounts each invention’s own curious, surprising, and memorable story.”
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.)
Hamstersaurus Rex, by Tom O’Donnell, $1.99. Is this another creepy book for Halloween? Yes and no. This wild middle school story will entertain and delight while still addressing some tougher emotional issues. From the publisher: “When a mysterious growling hamster appears at the back of his class, Sam knows just what to call him: Hamstersaurus Rex. Sam tries to protect Hammie from an overzealous Hamster Monitor, and from the meanest bully in the history of Horace Hotwater Middle School. The bully isn’t afraid of some weird little class pet. But maybe he should be. Hamstersaurus Rex is no ordinary hamster.”
Kindle Deals for November 1, 2019
Today’s Kindle deals include a novel in verse, a beautiful graphic novel, and heart-warming scifi.
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.)
BIG NEWS! We now have an email list to send you a reminder each time we post new deals to the website. If you’d like to make sure you never miss a deal, sign up here.
Before They Were Authors: Famous Writers as Kids, by Elizabeth Haidle, $2.99. This charming graphic novel tells the stories of many famous authors when they were kids. The backgrounds are varied and interesting, and the illustrations look both cute and historical. This stories will inspire kids and make them consider whether they could become famous writers too.
Other Words For Home, by Jasmine Warga, $1.99. This middle grade story about a Syrian girl moving to Cincinnati is a tough but lovely read. Told in lyrical verse through Jude’s eyes, Other Words For Home traces her path from Aleppo to the U.S., her confusion about the differences in American customs, and her path to how she will fit into her new home. Read this book for a great opportunity to see the world from a new perspective.
A Closed and Common Orbit, by Becky Chambers, $1.99. This is the award-winning second book in a scifi series, but it can be read as a standalone. Chambers writes space opera scifi that really focuses on relationships between the characters. The plot is complicated, so I’ll let the publisher describe it: “Lovelace was once merely a ship’s artificial intelligence. When she wakes up in a new body, following a total system shut-down and reboot, she has no memory of what came before. As Lovelace learns to negotiate the universe and discover who she is, she makes friends with Pepper, an excitable engineer, who’s determined to help her learn and grow. Together, Pepper and Lovey will discover that no matter how vast space is, two people can fill it together.”
STILL ON SALE
Don’t Know Much About Mythology, by Kenneth C. Davis, $2.99. I’m sure my HSL readers know a lot of things about mythology, but this book is pretty comprehensive. Davis looks at myths from around the world. Dig deeper than Greeks and Romans to learn about Druid myths, Incan gods, and more.
Better Than Normal: How What Makes You Different Can Make You Exceptional, by Dale Archer, $4.99. I have not read this, but the concept sounds intriguing. Dr. Archer looks at 8 common behavior traits that can be problematic when extreme to discover the ways they can also be beneficial. He suggests that attentiveness, anxiety, shyness, and other issues lie along a spectrum. Everyone’s personality is shaped by one or more of these traits, and Archer offers ways to harness them to work for you.
Raising a Sensory Smart Child, by Lindsey Biel and Nancy Peske, $4.99. This recently revised book is a great resource for parents of children with sensory sensitivities. The authors provide detailed information on the science behind sensory issues, then offer practical tips for dealing with the challenges that can come with sensory avoidance or seeking. Practical suggestions about the learning environment will be helpful to homeschoolers and those trying to partner with a school to meet a child’s needs.
A History of the World in 100 Objects, by Neil MacGregor, $4.99. This book is fantastic! I own the giant doorstop that is the print edition, and it sits in my living room at all times as a handy reference or exploration guide. The title is fairly descriptive. MacGregor has gathered a collection of artifacts from all over the world that illustrate some major stops in the human journey of innovation. From early jewelry to cookware to the modern credit card, each object’s significance is carefully described. This is the kind of book you can read sequentially or dip into when curious about a time period or geographic area.
Lord of the Flies, by William Golding, $1.99. This is a classic of coming-of-age literature found on many high school curricula. A group of boys is stranded on an island after a school trip gone horribly wrong. With no adults to guide them, they must govern themselves and find a way off of the island. They have some remarkable successes and some very memorable failures. Read this book to start a discussion of human nature.
How to Be a Happier Parent, by KJ Dell’Antonia, $4.99. I’ve really enjoyed Dell’Antonia’s New York Times parenting column. This book collects and connects some of the recurring themes about how to find a greater sense of happiness and peace through the parenting journey. From the publisher: In this optimistic, solution-packed book, KJ asks: How can we change our family life so that it is full of the joy we'd always hoped for? Drawing from the latest research and interviews with families, KJ discovers that it's possible to do more by doing less, and make our family life a refuge and pleasure, rather than another stress point in a hectic day. She focuses on nine common problem spots that cause parents the most grief, explores why they are hard, and offers small, doable, sometimes surprising steps you can take to make them better.
Moby-Duck: The True Story of 28,800 Bath Toys Lost at Sea & of the Beachcombers, Oceanographers, Environmentalists & Fools Including the Author Who Went in Search of Them, by Donovan Hohn, $4.99. A few years ago, an entire shipping container full of rubber ducks went missing in transit. The ducks were carried along by ocean currents and began showing up on beaches around the world. Donovan Hohn decided to track down some ducks and find out more about the natural forces behind the story. He learned way more than he expected. This book follows him on what became an epic adventure into ocean currents, shipping conglomerates, global economics, and more.
The Savage Garden: Cultivating Carnivorous Plants, by Peter D’Amato, $4.99. No, we are not talking about the ‘90s band, we are talking about plants that eat insects and other small creatures. My kid has been fascinated by meat-eating plants for years; they go against the basic biology we teach small children. This book describes in great detail the most common types of carnivorous plants and how you might grow them at home. With a chapter called “Other Savage Plants from the Demented Mind of Mother Nature,” this book feels perfect for some spooky fall reading. The well-researched plant descriptions and beautiful photos make this book an interesting pick even if you have no intention of growing your own carnivorous plants.
Catherine, Called Birdy, by Karen Cushman, $3.99. From our Great Epistolary Novels list: It’s problematic, of course, to pretend that we can understand what might have gone on in the head 14th century girl, but Cushman makes a solid effort here, and this novel — which takes the form of Catherine’s journal — paints a fascinating (and well researched) picture of medieval life. Catherine doesn’t have a lot of agency: She’s going to have to do what her father says, including marrying the man he’s picked out for her, however much she might rebel against the idea in her diary. That rebelling feels a little anachronistic, but I’m not sure a middle grades reader would be able to identify with Catherine at all without it so I think it’s an understandable conceit. If you’re studying the Middle Ages any time soon, you will definitely want to have this one on your list.
Daughters of the Night Sky, by Aimie K. Runyan, $4.99. This novel highlights a lesser known story of WWI, that of the Russian Night Witches. This all female regiment of pilots terrorizes the Nazis, flying dangerous but crucial missions. Runyan takes readers along on the harrowing flights, then considers how life must change once the war is over.
The Final Six, by Alexandra Monir, $1.99. This exciting YA novel reads somewhat like The Martian, but with teens in the main roles. From the publisher: When Leo and Naomi are drafted, along with twenty-two of the world’s brightest teenagers, into the International Space Training Camp, their lives are forever changed. Overnight, they become global celebrities in contention for one of the six slots to travel to Europa—Jupiter’s moon—and establish a new colony, leaving their planet forever. With Earth irreparably damaged, the future of the human race rests on their shoulders. For Leo, an Italian championship swimmer, this kind of purpose is a reason to go on after losing his family. But Naomi, an Iranian-American science genius, is suspicious of the ISTC and the fact that a similar mission failed under mysterious circumstances, killing the astronauts onboard. She fears something equally sinister awaiting the Final Six beneath Europa’s surface.
Ingredients: A Visual Exploration of 75 Additives and 25 Food Products, by Dwight Eschliman and Steve Ettinger, $0.99. What is really in the food we eat? What is caramel color, anyway? What does xanthan gum actually do, and where does it come from? This fascinating collaboration between a photographer and a science writer will answer all of these questions and more. They break down all the ingredients in more than two dozen common foods to explain how all the pieces fit together. You may never look at Cool Ranch Doritos the same way, but you’ll enjoy learning about the process!
Unfamiliar Fishes, by Sarah Vowell, $4.99. I’ve loved Sarah Vowell since I first heard her contributions to This American Life. Her quirky history books cover unusual topics in her signature quippy style. This book takes on the Americanization of Hawaii, from the first settlers to the annexation. It’s a story of imperialism, native culture, and more.
What She Ate: Six Remarkable Women and the Food that Tells Their Stories, by Laura Shapiro, $4.99. This is biography told in a very different way; it absolutely fascinates me. From the publisher: What She Ate is a lively and unpredictable array of women; what they have in common with one another (and us) is a powerful relationship with food. They include Dorothy Wordsworth, whose food story transforms our picture of the life she shared with her famous poet brother; Rosa Lewis, the Edwardian-era Cockney caterer who cooked her way up the social ladder; Eleanor Roosevelt, First Lady and rigorous protector of the worst cook in White House history; Eva Braun, Hitler’s mistress, who challenges our warm associations of food, family, and table; Barbara Pym, whose witty books upend a host of stereotypes about postwar British cuisine; and Helen Gurley Brown, the editor of Cosmopolitan, whose commitment to “having it all” meant having almost nothing on the plate except a supersized portion of diet gelatin.
Monsters You Should Know, by Emma Sancartier, $1.99. This is the cutest book about horrifying monsters that you will ever see. Truly creepy monsters from folklore around the world are illustrated in a scary but still somehow charming style. This is a picture book, but probably best for ages 8+. You could shape an interesting unit study around researching these monsters.
Bliss, by Kathryn Littlewood, $3.99. The Bliss family runs a popular bakery with a secret: many of the recipes come from the family’s magic “Cookery Booke,” an ancient and powerful resource. Rosemary Bliss is looking after her siblings while her parents go out of town, leaving strict instructions not to open the book without supervision. When mysterious Aunt Lily shows up unexpectedly, the kids don’t think it would be too problematic to make some recipes from the book for her. What could possibly go wrong? This middle grade book is warm, funny, and packed with delicious details.
Guitar Zero, by Gary Marcus, $4.99. You’re never too old, or too young, to learn music. Gary Marcus was nearly 40 when he decided he wanted to learn the guitar despite having little musical experience or skill. Marcus is a scientist, and he describes both his personal musical journey and the science behind how the brain integrates new skills.
The Read-Aloud Handbook, by Jim Trelease, $4.99. Every household should have a copy of this book, a guide to awesome books to read with children. The first half of the book explain why you should read aloud to the children in your life. There are sections on problem solving for reluctant readers or listeners, as well as a section specifically on getting dads involved in the reading process. The second half of the book is a giant compendium of read-aloud books. Each book listed has a short summary, suggested age group, notes about any sensitive topics, and a list of related books. This edition was released in 2013; an updated version was just published, but it is not on sale.
Ivy and Bean Books 1-3, by Annie Barrows, $1.99. These sweet and funny stories are perfect for your new reader. My daughter has moved far beyond this series, but still often picks up one of these books to reread in a single sitting. From my junior reviewer: “I really love these books because the characters are believably drawn with just the right amount of humor. They tie in hilarious and unusual circumstances, including magic sometimes, with things I have experienced. They have a very specific sense of humor, which I share, and I can relate to almost all of the characters.”
The House in Poplar Wood, by K.E. Ormsbee, $1.99. When I saw this book described as “Haunted Mansion meets Stranger Things,” I was totally hooked. The publisher has written a better summary than I possibly could: “For as long as the Vickery twins can remember, Lee and his mother have served Memory, while Felix and his father assist Death. This is the Agreement. But one Halloween, Gretchen Whipple smashes her way into their lives. Her bargain is simple: If the twins help her solve the murder of local girl Essie Hasting, she'll help them break the Agreement. The more the three investigate, however, the more they realize that something's gone terribly wrong in their town. Death is on the loose, and if history repeats itself, Essie's might not be the last murder in Poplar Wood. Simultaneously heartwarming and delightfully spooky, The House in Poplar Wood is a story about a boy's desire to be free, a girl's desire to make a difference, and a family's desire to be together again.”
Emily’s Runaway Imagination, by Beverly Cleary, $4.99. This is a charming but lesser-known middle grade book from beloved children’s author Beverly Cleary. Emily reminds me of Pippi Longstocking without the clearly impossible situations. From the publisher: “Spunky Emily Bartlett lives in an old farmhouse in Pitchfork, Oregon'at a time when automobiles are brand-new inventions and libraries are a luxury few small towns can afford. Her runaway imagination leads her to bleach a horse, hold a very scary sleepover, and feed the hogs an unusual treat. But can she use her lively mind to help bring a library to Pitchfork?”
Tangled in Time: The Portal, by Kathryn Lasky, $1.99. This charming middle grade novel is a time travel story. Rose finds a time portal in her grandmother’s greenhouse that transports her to the the court of Henry VIII. She befriends the young Princess Elizabeth and discovers a mysterious locket that may hold a secret connecting Rose to the Tudor world.
Dear Data, by Giogia Lupi and Stefanie Posavec, $2.99. This book has a fascinating concept: two friends in different countries sent each other a postcard every week for a year. Every week had a theme, and the two friends recorded data about their lives and created a way to represent it visually. The result is more than 100 postcards illustrating the details of their lives. You’ll find this a great discussion starter about ways to visually represent ideas.
Talking Across the Divide: How to Communicate with People You Disagree with and Maybe Even Change the World, by Justin Lee, $4.99. I run a large homeschool co-op, which puts me in the position to get to know a wide variety of people. Books like Talking Across the Divide in invaluable in the current political climate for helping people find ways to connect.
The Mermaid’s Sister, by Carrie Anne Noble, $3.99. 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 Hero’s Guide to Saving Your Kingdom, by Christopher Healy, $1.99. You think you know the classic fairytale stories, but they are usually centered around the princesses. This fun middle grade series focuses on the princes. After the “happily ever after” the princes discover that their kingdoms are in danger, and they set off take on all kinds of mythical monsters. This fun and funny book is the first in a series that your middle-grade reader will love.
The Mind’s Eye, by Oliver Sacks, $4.99. What would your life be like if you lost a fundamental part of your sensory experience? Neuroscientist Oliver Sacks explores what makes us who we are in this collection of profiles. From the concert pianist who loses the ability to read music to the woman who finds herself unable to speak, Sacks deftly recreates the breadth of human experience.
Cut in Half: The Hidden World of Everyday Objects, by Mike 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.)
Art Before Breakfast: A Zillion Ways to be More Creative No Matter How Busy You Are, by Danny Gregory, $2.99. My daughter loves doing art, and fills lots of her spare time making things. I’ve never considered myself an artist and struggle to find time to develop my skills. This book is a great place to start. Danny Gregory has created short, fun activities that take 10 minutes or less. They will encourage you to make art a regular part of your life. This book is a great way to add some art education to your homeschool, or to carve out a bit of time for your own creativity.
50 Inventions That Shaped the Modern Economy, by Tim Harford, $4.99. I love this kind of book, a history through specific objects. Here’s how the publisher describes it: “Fifty Inventions That Shaped the Modern Economy paints an epic picture of change in an intimate way by telling the stories of the tools, people, and ideas that had far-reaching consequences for all of us. From the plough to artificial intelligence, from Gillette’s disposable razor to IKEA’s Billy bookcase, bestselling author and Financial Times columnist Tim Harford recounts each invention’s own curious, surprising, and memorable story.”
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.)
Hamstersaurus Rex, by Tom O’Donnell, $1.99. Is this another creepy book for Halloween? Yes and no. This wild middle school story will entertain and delight while still addressing some tougher emotional issues. From the publisher: “When a mysterious growling hamster appears at the back of his class, Sam knows just what to call him: Hamstersaurus Rex. Sam tries to protect Hammie from an overzealous Hamster Monitor, and from the meanest bully in the history of Horace Hotwater Middle School. The bully isn’t afraid of some weird little class pet. But maybe he should be. Hamstersaurus Rex is no ordinary hamster.”
Kindle Deals for October 30, 2019
Today’s Kindle deals include myths, mental health, and a Halloween picture book.
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.)
BIG NEWS! We now have an email list to send you a reminder each time we post new deals to the website. If you’d like to make sure you never miss a deal, sign up here.
Don’t Know Much About Mythology, by Kenneth C. Davis, $2.99. I’m sure my HSL readers know a lot of things about mythology, but this book is pretty comprehensive. Davis looks at myths from around the world. Dig deeper than Greeks and Romans to learn about Druid myths, Incan gods, and more.
Better Than Normal: How What Makes You Different Can Make You Exceptional, by Dale Archer, $4.99. I have not read this, but the concept sounds intriguing. Dr. Archer looks at 8 common behavior traits that can be problematic when extreme to discover the ways they can also be beneficial. He suggests that attentiveness, anxiety, shyness, and other issues lie along a spectrum. Everyone’s personality is shaped by one or more of these traits, and Archer offers ways to harness them to work for you.
Franklin’s Halloween, by Paulette Bourgeois and Brenda Clark, $0.99. Beloved children’s book character Franklin the turtle is excited to celebrate Halloween with his friends. But he worries that there might be a “real ghost” at the Halloween party. The charming illustrations bring this holiday book to life.
STILL ON SALE
The Complete Adventures of Curious George, by Margaret and H.A. Rey, $1.99. There are now dozens of Curious George spin offs, most of which involve George doing things that would cause serious trouble and then getting out of them because he is cute. This book contains the original seven stories from the 1940s to the 1960s. These stories have a more whimsical feel than the modern cartoon series. The retro illustrations are particularly charming.
Raising a Sensory Smart Child, by Lindsey Biel and Nancy Peske, $4.99. This recently revised book is a great resource for parents of children with sensory sensitivities. The authors provide detailed information on the science behind sensory issues, then offer practical tips for dealing with the challenges that can come with sensory avoidance or seeking. Practical suggestions about the learning environment will be helpful to homeschoolers and those trying to partner with a school to meet a child’s needs.
A History of the World in 100 Objects, by Neil MacGregor, $4.99. This book is fantastic! I own the giant doorstop that is the print edition, and it sits in my living room at all times as a handy reference or exploration guide. The title is fairly descriptive. MacGregor has gathered a collection of artifacts from all over the world that illustrate some major stops in the human journey of innovation. From early jewelry to cookware to the modern credit card, each object’s significance is carefully described. This is the kind of book you can read sequentially or dip into when curious about a time period or geographic area.
Lord of the Flies, by William Golding, $1.99. This is a classic of coming-of-age literature found on many high school curricula. A group of boys is stranded on an island after a school trip gone horribly wrong. With no adults to guide them, they must govern themselves and find a way off of the island. They have some remarkable successes and some very memorable failures. Read this book to start a discussion of human nature.
How to Be a Happier Parent, by KJ Dell’Antonia, $4.99. I’ve really enjoyed Dell’Antonia’s New York Times parenting column. This book collects and connects some of the recurring themes about how to find a greater sense of happiness and peace through the parenting journey. From the publisher: In this optimistic, solution-packed book, KJ asks: How can we change our family life so that it is full of the joy we'd always hoped for? Drawing from the latest research and interviews with families, KJ discovers that it's possible to do more by doing less, and make our family life a refuge and pleasure, rather than another stress point in a hectic day. She focuses on nine common problem spots that cause parents the most grief, explores why they are hard, and offers small, doable, sometimes surprising steps you can take to make them better.
Moby-Duck: The True Story of 28,800 Bath Toys Lost at Sea & of the Beachcombers, Oceanographers, Environmentalists & Fools Including the Author Who Went in Search of Them, by Donovan Hohn, $4.99. A few years ago, an entire shipping container full of rubber ducks went missing in transit. The ducks were carried along by ocean currents and began showing up on beaches around the world. Donovan Hohn decided to track down some ducks and find out more about the natural forces behind the story. He learned way more than he expected. This book follows him on what became an epic adventure into ocean currents, shipping conglomerates, global economics, and more.
The Savage Garden: Cultivating Carnivorous Plants, by Peter D’Amato, $4.99. No, we are not talking about the ‘90s band, we are talking about plants that eat insects and other small creatures. My kid has been fascinated by meat-eating plants for years; they go against the basic biology we teach small children. This book describes in great detail the most common types of carnivorous plants and how you might grow them at home. With a chapter called “Other Savage Plants from the Demented Mind of Mother Nature,” this book feels perfect for some spooky fall reading. The well-researched plant descriptions and beautiful photos make this book an interesting pick even if you have no intention of growing your own carnivorous plants.
Catherine, Called Birdy, by Karen Cushman, $3.99. From our Great Epistolary Novels list: It’s problematic, of course, to pretend that we can understand what might have gone on in the head 14th century girl, but Cushman makes a solid effort here, and this novel — which takes the form of Catherine’s journal — paints a fascinating (and well researched) picture of medieval life. Catherine doesn’t have a lot of agency: She’s going to have to do what her father says, including marrying the man he’s picked out for her, however much she might rebel against the idea in her diary. That rebelling feels a little anachronistic, but I’m not sure a middle grades reader would be able to identify with Catherine at all without it so I think it’s an understandable conceit. If you’re studying the Middle Ages any time soon, you will definitely want to have this one on your list.
Daughters of the Night Sky, by Aimie K. Runyan, $4.99. This novel highlights a lesser known story of WWI, that of the Russian Night Witches. This all female regiment of pilots terrorizes the Nazis, flying dangerous but crucial missions. Runyan takes readers along on the harrowing flights, then considers how life must change once the war is over.
What Can a Citizen Do?, by Dave Eggers and Shawn Harris, $1.99. This beautifully illustrated children’s book is an introduction to what citizenship means today. The words are a call to action (“A citizen should be engaged. A citizen should care and care.”) and the cut paper illustrations are wonderfully diverse.
The Final Six, by Alexandra Monir, $1.99. This exciting YA novel reads somewhat like The Martian, but with teens in the main roles. From the publisher: When Leo and Naomi are drafted, along with twenty-two of the world’s brightest teenagers, into the International Space Training Camp, their lives are forever changed. Overnight, they become global celebrities in contention for one of the six slots to travel to Europa—Jupiter’s moon—and establish a new colony, leaving their planet forever. With Earth irreparably damaged, the future of the human race rests on their shoulders. For Leo, an Italian championship swimmer, this kind of purpose is a reason to go on after losing his family. But Naomi, an Iranian-American science genius, is suspicious of the ISTC and the fact that a similar mission failed under mysterious circumstances, killing the astronauts onboard. She fears something equally sinister awaiting the Final Six beneath Europa’s surface.
Ingredients: A Visual Exploration of 75 Additives and 25 Food Products, by Dwight Eschliman and Steve Ettinger, $0.99. What is really in the food we eat? What is caramel color, anyway? What does xanthan gum actually do, and where does it come from? This fascinating collaboration between a photographer and a science writer will answer all of these questions and more. They break down all the ingredients in more than two dozen common foods to explain how all the pieces fit together. You may never look at Cool Ranch Doritos the same way, but you’ll enjoy learning about the process!
Children of Blood and Bone, by Tomi Adeyemi, $2.99. From our 2018 winter reading list: “This YA book is a fantastic fantasy about two girls who want to bring magic back to their land and a crown prince who would do anything to stop them, but it’s also about racism, prejudice, and xenophobia. This is probably the book everyone will be talking about.”
Unfamiliar Fishes, by Sarah Vowell, $4.99. I’ve loved Sarah Vowell since I first heard her contributions to This American Life. Her quirky history books cover unusual topics in her signature quippy style. This book takes on the Americanization of Hawaii, from the first settlers to the annexation. It’s a story of imperialism, native culture, and more.
What She Ate: Six Remarkable Women and the Food that Tells Their Stories, by Laura Shapiro, $4.99. This is biography told in a very different way; it absolutely fascinates me. From the publisher: What She Ate is a lively and unpredictable array of women; what they have in common with one another (and us) is a powerful relationship with food. They include Dorothy Wordsworth, whose food story transforms our picture of the life she shared with her famous poet brother; Rosa Lewis, the Edwardian-era Cockney caterer who cooked her way up the social ladder; Eleanor Roosevelt, First Lady and rigorous protector of the worst cook in White House history; Eva Braun, Hitler’s mistress, who challenges our warm associations of food, family, and table; Barbara Pym, whose witty books upend a host of stereotypes about postwar British cuisine; and Helen Gurley Brown, the editor of Cosmopolitan, whose commitment to “having it all” meant having almost nothing on the plate except a supersized portion of diet gelatin.
Monsters You Should Know, by Emma Sancartier, $1.99. This is the cutest book about horrifying monsters that you will ever see. Truly creepy monsters from folklore around the world are illustrated in a scary but still somehow charming style. This is a picture book, but probably best for ages 8+. You could shape an interesting unit study around researching these monsters.
Bliss, by Kathryn Littlewood, $3.99. The Bliss family runs a popular bakery with a secret: many of the recipes come from the family’s magic “Cookery Booke,” an ancient and powerful resource. Rosemary Bliss is looking after her siblings while her parents go out of town, leaving strict instructions not to open the book without supervision. When mysterious Aunt Lily shows up unexpectedly, the kids don’t think it would be too problematic to make some recipes from the book for her. What could possibly go wrong? This middle grade book is warm, funny, and packed with delicious details.
Guitar Zero, by Gary Marcus, $4.99. You’re never too old, or too young, to learn music. Gary Marcus was nearly 40 when he decided he wanted to learn the guitar despite having little musical experience or skill. Marcus is a scientist, and he describes both his personal musical journey and the science behind how the brain integrates new skills.
The Bone Houses, by Emily Lloyd-Jones, $2.99. I have heard so much about this book. It is a creepy delight of a YA novel. Ryn and her family tend the graveyard in the small town of Colbren. The problem is, the bodies don’t always stay dead. Sometimes the dead “bone houses” come back to life. When the risings start to increase, Ryn and apprentice mapmaker Ellis must journey to discover the secret of the curse that is tormenting the town. This is a brand new novel that is getting a lot of buzz.
The Read-Aloud Handbook, by Jim Trelease, $4.99. Every household should have a copy of this book, a guide to awesome books to read with children. The first half of the book explain why you should read aloud to the children in your life. There are sections on problem solving for reluctant readers or listeners, as well as a section specifically on getting dads involved in the reading process. The second half of the book is a giant compendium of read-aloud books. Each book listed has a short summary, suggested age group, notes about any sensitive topics, and a list of related books. This edition was released in 2013; an updated version was just published, but it is not on sale.
Northanger Abbey, by Val McDermid, $1.99. A few years ago, a group of acclaimed authors decided to write new interpretations of each of Jane Austen’s novels. Val McDermid, author of many bestselling mysteries, decided to take on Austen’s creepiest novel, Northanger Abbey. In this modern retelling, homeschooled bookworm Cat Morland is invited by the Allen family to attend the Edinburgh Fringe Festival with them. In Edinburgh, she meets the Thorpe family, as well as handsome lawyer Henry Tilney. But is everything really as it seems? This version of Northanger Abbey will thrill and chill Austen fans and neophytes alike.
Ivy and Bean Books 1-3, by Annie Barrows, $1.99. These sweet and funny stories are perfect for your new reader. My daughter has moved far beyond this series, but still often picks up one of these books to reread in a single sitting. From my junior reviewer: “I really love these books because the characters are believably drawn with just the right amount of humor. They tie in hilarious and unusual circumstances, including magic sometimes, with things I have experienced. They have a very specific sense of humor, which I share, and I can relate to almost all of the characters.”
Brief Answers to the Big Questions, by Stephen Hawking, $2.99. Famed cosmologist Stephen Hawking has written many books, but this one is a little different. At the end of his life, he set out to answer some important questions. Is there other intelligent life in the universe? Is time travel possible? How do we shape the future? Hawking offers his own opinions on these and more. (Note: There is some discussion of religion and atheism.)
The House in Poplar Wood, by K.E. Ormsbee, $1.99. When I saw this book described as “Haunted Mansion meets Stranger Things,” I was totally hooked. The publisher has written a better summary than I possibly could: “For as long as the Vickery twins can remember, Lee and his mother have served Memory, while Felix and his father assist Death. This is the Agreement. But one Halloween, Gretchen Whipple smashes her way into their lives. Her bargain is simple: If the twins help her solve the murder of local girl Essie Hasting, she'll help them break the Agreement. The more the three investigate, however, the more they realize that something's gone terribly wrong in their town. Death is on the loose, and if history repeats itself, Essie's might not be the last murder in Poplar Wood. Simultaneously heartwarming and delightfully spooky, The House in Poplar Wood is a story about a boy's desire to be free, a girl's desire to make a difference, and a family's desire to be together again.”
Emily’s Runaway Imagination, by Beverly Cleary, $4.99. This is a charming but lesser-known middle grade book from beloved children’s author Beverly Cleary. Emily reminds me of Pippi Longstocking without the clearly impossible situations. From the publisher: “Spunky Emily Bartlett lives in an old farmhouse in Pitchfork, Oregon'at a time when automobiles are brand-new inventions and libraries are a luxury few small towns can afford. Her runaway imagination leads her to bleach a horse, hold a very scary sleepover, and feed the hogs an unusual treat. But can she use her lively mind to help bring a library to Pitchfork?”
Tangled in Time: The Portal, by Kathryn Lasky, $1.99. This charming middle grade novel is a time travel story. Rose finds a time portal in her grandmother’s greenhouse that transports her to the the court of Henry VIII. She befriends the young Princess Elizabeth and discovers a mysterious locket that may hold a secret connecting Rose to the Tudor world.
The Omnivore’s Dilemma, by Michael Pollan, $1.99. The concept of this book is simple — Michael Pollan takes four meals and traces each ingredient back to it’s agricultural origins. Along the way, he discovers much about the business and culture of our modern food landscape. From McDonald’s to Whole Foods and several stops in between, Pollan considers the health and environmental implications of our food choices. There’s also a young reader’s edition if you’d like to include kids in the dinner table discussions.
Dear Data, by Giogia Lupi and Stefanie Posavec, $2.99. This book has a fascinating concept: two friends in different countries sent each other a postcard every week for a year. Every week had a theme, and the two friends recorded data about their lives and created a way to represent it visually. The result is more than 100 postcards illustrating the details of their lives. You’ll find this a great discussion starter about ways to visually represent ideas.
Talking Across the Divide: How to Communicate with People You Disagree with and Maybe Even Change the World, by Justin Lee, $4.99. I run a large homeschool co-op, which puts me in the position to get to know a wide variety of people. Books like Talking Across the Divide in invaluable in the current political climate for helping people find ways to connect.
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 Hero’s Guide to Saving Your Kingdom, by Christopher Healy, $1.99. You think you know the classic fairytale stories, but they are usually centered around the princesses. This fun middle grade series focuses on the princes. After the “happily ever after” the princes discover that their kingdoms are in danger, and they set off take on all kinds of mythical monsters. This fun and funny book is the first in a series that your middle-grade reader will love.
The Mind’s Eye, by Oliver Sacks, $4.99. What would your life be like if you lost a fundamental part of your sensory experience? Neuroscientist Oliver Sacks explores what makes us who we are in this collection of profiles. From the concert pianist who loses the ability to read music to the woman who finds herself unable to speak, Sacks deftly recreates the breadth of human experience.
Cut in Half: The Hidden World of Everyday Objects, by Mike 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.)
Art Before Breakfast: A Zillion Ways to be More Creative No Matter How Busy You Are, by Danny Gregory, $2.99. My daughter loves doing art, and fills lots of her spare time making things. I’ve never considered myself an artist and struggle to find time to develop my skills. This book is a great place to start. Danny Gregory has created short, fun activities that take 10 minutes or less. They will encourage you to make art a regular part of your life. This book is a great way to add some art education to your homeschool, or to carve out a bit of time for your own creativity.
Forensics: What Bugs, Burns, Prints, DNA, and More Tell Us About Crime, by Val McDermid, $1.99. Val McDermid is fascinated by forensics in a way only a mystery writer can be. She has a keen eye for detail, and she can make dry facts seem riveting. You’ll come away from this book much more knowledgeable about the facts of crime investigation (as opposed to some of the technological magic of CSI).
50 Inventions That Shaped the Modern Economy, by Tim Harford, $4.99. I love this kind of book, a history through specific objects. Here’s how the publisher describes it: “Fifty Inventions That Shaped the Modern Economy paints an epic picture of change in an intimate way by telling the stories of the tools, people, and ideas that had far-reaching consequences for all of us. From the plough to artificial intelligence, from Gillette’s disposable razor to IKEA’s Billy bookcase, bestselling author and Financial Times columnist Tim Harford recounts each invention’s own curious, surprising, and memorable story.”
The Physics of Superheroes: Spectacular Second Edition, by James Kakalios, $4.99. Why did Krypton explode? How does Spiderman’s webbing actually work? How do you make a lightweight, bulletproof costume? Kakalios, a physics and astronomy professor, knows his stuff and can explain it with humor and detail. This second edition has three new chapters, so it might be worth a buy even if you’ve already read the first edition.
The Wizards of Once, by Cressida Cowell, $1.99. My family loved the How to Train Your Dragon series, and we are excited to begin another series by Cressida Cowell. Here’s what the publisher says: Once there were Wizards, who were Magic, and Warriors, who were not. But Xar, son of the King of Wizards, can't cast a single spell. And Wish, daughter of the Warrior Queen, has a banned magical object of her own. When they collide in the wildwood, on the trail of a deadly witch, it's the start of a grand adventure that just might change the fabric of their worlds.
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.)
Hamstersaurus Rex, by Tom O’Donnell, $1.99. Is this another creepy book for Halloween? Yes and no. This wild middle school story will entertain and delight while still addressing some tougher emotional issues. From the publisher: “When a mysterious growling hamster appears at the back of his class, Sam knows just what to call him: Hamstersaurus Rex. Sam tries to protect Hammie from an overzealous Hamster Monitor, and from the meanest bully in the history of Horace Hotwater Middle School. The bully isn’t afraid of some weird little class pet. But maybe he should be. Hamstersaurus Rex is no ordinary hamster.”
Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking, by Susan Cain, $2.99. Introverts may be overrepresented in the homeschool world. I was just having a discussion with my daughter about how many social norms are set up by and for extroverted people. This insightful book is a celebration of introverts, an analysis of their role in society, and a guide for ways that introverts can find success. This is an excellent book, whether you are an introvert or want to understand an introvert. There’s also a children’s version that I am looking forward to sharing with my family.
Making the Monster: The Science Behind Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, by Katheryn Harkup, $1.99. Another Halloween-related book for October! From the publisher: Making the Monster explores the scientific background behind Mary Shelley's book. Is there any science fact behind the science fiction? And how might a real-life Victor Frankenstein have gone about creating his monster? From tales of volcanic eruptions, artificial life and chemical revolutions, to experimental surgery, 'monsters' and electrical experiments on human cadavers, Kathryn Harkup examines the science and scientists that influenced Shelley, and inspired her most famous creation.”
Corsets & Codpieces, by Karen Bowman, $1.99. How did 18th century women get their skirts to stick out to far? Why did medieval men accentuate their figure with over the top codpieces? This book explores the history of outrageous fashion. (Note: As you might expect from the title, sex comes up fairly often. This might be a good choice for teens and adults.)
Penny and Her Song, by Kevin Henkes, $4.99. Your beginning reader will love this series about Penny, an adorable and charming young mouse. Penny comes home with a new song that she is so eager to sing! However, her parents beg her to keep quiet while her twin siblings are sleeping. Will Penny ever be able to share her music? This is an excellent book for early readers ready to venture into short chapter books. It was one of my daughter’s favorite’s when she began reading on her own.
You Are Not So Smart, by David McRay, $1.99. We all like to believe that we know why we do the things we do, but what is the reality? David McRay breaks it down for you in the pithy guide to common ways your brain is tricking you. From the Dunning-Kruger Effect to the Straw Man Delusion, McRay patiently guides the reader through modern psychological research. The tone is fairly light, and the real world examples are plentiful. This book is broken down into 48 short sections ideal for quick dipping into for discussion around the dinner table.
American Trailblazers: 50 Remarkable People Who Shaped U.S. History, by Lisa Trusiani, $1.99. Yesterday was full of history deals, but they were all for older readers, so I was glad to find something for my younger historians today. American Trailblazers profiles men and women from many fields who have accomplished impressive things. I was pleased to see racial and gender diversity in the performers, scientists, writers, and other careers mentioned. Cute illustrations make this book inviting, and the lists of related people to investigate will let kids dig deep into their interests.
How to Knit: Learn the Basic Stitches and Techniques, by Lesley Ann Bestor, $2.99. There is finally, FINALLY, a chill in the air, and that means it is time to start planning cozy inside activities for the winter months. Maybe this is the year your family dabbles with fiber arts. How to Knit is a cheerful, basic guide to all you’ll need to make your first knitting projects. If you want something more substantial, The Knowledgeable Knitter leaves no stitch unturned. Not sure knitting is for you? How to Crochet is also on sale!
Sisters in Law: How Sandra Day O’Connor and Ruth Bader Ginsburg Went to the Supreme Court and Changed the World, by Linda R. Hirshman, $2.99. At first glance, Ginsburg and O’Connor would seem to have little in common. Their backgrounds are different in virtually every particular. It was their career path, and the inherent struggles in trailblazing a path for women in the law, that brought them together and helped them to develop a warm working relationship and friendship. Sisters in Law is a biography of these two remarkable women and their work to improve women’s lives in America.
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.
In a Dark, Dark Room and Other Scary Stories, by Alvin Schwartz, $1.99. Some kids just LOVE to be creeped out, and it’s never too early to get a delightfully spooky book into their hands. This is a collection of scary stories for beginning readers. Turn down the lights and let your child give a haunted story hour. The vibrant and twisted illustrations add to the fun.
Dear Martin, by Nic Stone, $1.99. From our 2017 Fall Book Guide: Teenage Justyce starts a journal writing to Martin Luther King, Jr., after a false arrest has him questioning racism and resistance in his world. When his worst fears are realized in a police shooting, Justyce has to confront the darkest parts of himself and the world he lives in.
Letters of Note, Volume 1, by Shaun Usher, $3.99. Letters can be surprising, meaningful, and just plain odd. Shaun Usher has collected more than 100 interesting letters to share in this volume. You can read a letter from Elvis to President Nixon which Elvis offers to become a Federal Agent. The letters cover a wide time period and topics from politics to art to food. Each letter includes a big of background information, and many include a photo of the letter itself. This is a fun book to dip into over and over again.
Coraline: The Graphic Novel, by Neil Gaiman and P. Craig Russell, $1.99. Coraline is a classic creepy tale about a girl who discovers an alternate version of her reality when she moves to a new house. At first the new house and new family seems like all Coraline has ever wanted, but things are not as they seem. I will never look at a Lalaloopsy doll in the same way having read this book. The realistic drawings increase the creep factor, making it more unsettling than the movie adaptation.
Beatrix Potter’s Gardening Life, by Marta McDowell, $1.99. Beatrix Potter’s stories of sentient animals getting up to mischief have charmed children and parents for generations. Her beautiful watercolor illustrations really bring her characters to life. In this book, McDowell describes the events that shaped Potter’s love of the outdoors, then takes readers on a guided tour of the outdoor settings that are so crucial to Potter’s work. Gorgeous watercolors and photos enhance the reading experience.
Life in a Medieval Castle, by Frances and Joseph Gies, $1.99. Interest in the medieval period had a resurgence in popularity with the rise of Game of Thrones. But you don’t need to be a die-hard dragon fan to appreciate this comprehensive guide to medieval life. The Gieses cover everything from food to heating to knights’ training. The comprehensive index makes it easy to dip in for just the information you need, or you can curl up and dive deep into a world long past.
The Sky Below, by Scott Parazynski and Susy Flory, $0.99. Scott Parazynski’s memoir of the adventures and training that led him to become an astronaut is fascinating. What makes this book thrilling, though, is the Kindle in Motion feature. When you read this book on a Kindle Fire or the Kindle app on another tablet, you will marvel at the embedded video. The pages come to live with views of rockets launching, the earth from space, and more. This is a must have for anyone interested in space flight.
How to Draw Cool Things, by Rachel Goldstein, $2.99. When I was in school, every class had at least one kid who knew how to make cool lettering or designs in the margins of the paper. I felt like it was some kind of magical power. Now your kids can be in on the secrets with this fun guide to drawing optical illusions, 3D doodles, and more. Twelve-year-old me is so jealous.
The Dark Descent of Elizabeth Frankenstein, by Kiersten White, $1.99. Continuing our creepy theme for the day, we have this exciting and unsettling YA retelling of Frankenstein. Elizabeth is a neglected child who is brought into the Frankenstein family as a companion for the troubled Victor. She lives with the Frankensteins for years, her one task being to control Victor’s temper and dark impulses. But what must she do to keep him happy? Teens and adults with enjoy this “exquisitely disturbing” novel. The bonus copy of Mary Shelley’s original novel included in the ebook will make for an excellent comparative literature lesson.
Stopping for a Spell, by Diana Wynne Jones, $2.99. You may know Diana Wynne Jones from her excellent Howl’s Moving Castle and Chrestomanci series. She is a master of immersive fantasy for young readers. Stopping for a Spell is a collection of three shorter stories designed for slightly younger readers. Set in a mostly familiar 20th century England with only a few magical differences, these tales will delight middle grade readers. Furniture comes to life, mysterious grannies come to stay, and more. Charming and detailed illustrations round out an enjoyable reading experience that will be a great introduction to the author’s work for new readers.
Why Do Clocks Run Clockwise?, by David Feldman, $2.99. Do you have that kid who always wants to know the answers to weird questions? Are you the grown-up version of that kid? David Feldman’s Imponderables series is just the thing for you. He answers such questions as “why do dogs circle before lying down?” and “why is a telephone keypad arranged differently from a calculator?” Feldman tracks down experts to get to the bottom of many strange questions. The short sections make this book appealing to casual readers who might not pick up a novel.
The Tale of Despereaux, by Kate DiCamillo, $4.08. This thrilling tale of adventure tells the story of Despereaux, a brave young mouse who takes on an extraordinary quest This moving story will delight readers young and old, though it is somewhat darker than you might expect from the cover art. Beautiful illustrations set the tone.
Kindle Deals for October 29, 2019
Today’s Kindle deals include a beloved children’s character, a helpful parenting guide, and a fantastic collection of historical objects.
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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The Complete Adventures of Curious George, by Margaret and H.A. Rey, $1.99. There are now dozens of Curious George spin offs, most of which involve George doing things that would cause serious trouble and then getting out of them because he is cute. This book contains the original seven stories from the 1940s to the 1960s. These stories have a more whimsical feel than the modern cartoon series. The retro illustrations are particularly charming.
Raising a Sensory Smart Child, by Lindsey Biel and Nancy Peske, $4.99. This recently revised book is a great resource for parents of children with sensory sensitivities. The authors provide detailed information on the science behind sensory issues, then offer practical tips for dealing with the challenges that can come with sensory avoidance or seeking. Practical suggestions about the learning environment will be helpful to homeschoolers and those trying to partner with a school to meet a child’s needs.
A History of the World in 100 Objects, by Neil MacGregor, $4.99. This book is fantastic! I own the giant doorstop that is the print edition, and it sits in my living room at all times as a handy reference or exploration guide. The title is fairly descriptive. MacGregor has gathered a collection of artifacts from all over the world that illustrate some major stops in the human journey of innovation. From early jewelry to cookware to the modern credit card, each object’s significance is carefully described. This is the kind of book you can read sequentially or dip into when curious about a time period or geographic area.
STILL ON SALE
Lord of the Flies, by William Golding, $1.99. This is a classic of coming-of-age literature found on many high school curricula. A group of boys is stranded on an island after a school trip gone horribly wrong. With no adults to guide them, they must govern themselves and find a way off of the island. They have some remarkable successes and some very memorable failures. Read this book to start a discussion of human nature.
How to Be a Happier Parent, by KJ Dell’Antonia, $4.99. I’ve really enjoyed Dell’Antonia’s New York Times parenting column. This book collects and connects some of the recurring themes about how to find a greater sense of happiness and peace through the parenting journey. From the publisher: In this optimistic, solution-packed book, KJ asks: How can we change our family life so that it is full of the joy we'd always hoped for? Drawing from the latest research and interviews with families, KJ discovers that it's possible to do more by doing less, and make our family life a refuge and pleasure, rather than another stress point in a hectic day. She focuses on nine common problem spots that cause parents the most grief, explores why they are hard, and offers small, doable, sometimes surprising steps you can take to make them better.
Moby-Duck: The True Story of 28,800 Bath Toys Lost at Sea & of the Beachcombers, Oceanographers, Environmentalists & Fools Including the Author Who Went in Search of Them, by Donovan Hohn, $4.99. A few years ago, an entire shipping container full of rubber ducks went missing in transit. The ducks were carried along by ocean currents and began showing up on beaches around the world. Donovan Hohn decided to track down some ducks and find out more about the natural forces behind the story. He learned way more than he expected. This book follows him on what became an epic adventure into ocean currents, shipping conglomerates, global economics, and more.
The Savage Garden: Cultivating Carnivorous Plants, by Peter D’Amato, $4.99. No, we are not talking about the ‘90s band, we are talking about plants that eat insects and other small creatures. My kid has been fascinated by meat-eating plants for years; they go against the basic biology we teach small children. This book describes in great detail the most common types of carnivorous plants and how you might grow them at home. With a chapter called “Other Savage Plants from the Demented Mind of Mother Nature,” this book feels perfect for some spooky fall reading. The well-researched plant descriptions and beautiful photos make this book an interesting pick even if you have no intention of growing your own carnivorous plants.
Catherine, Called Birdy, by Karen Cushman, $3.99. From our Great Epistolary Novels list: It’s problematic, of course, to pretend that we can understand what might have gone on in the head 14th century girl, but Cushman makes a solid effort here, and this novel — which takes the form of Catherine’s journal — paints a fascinating (and well researched) picture of medieval life. Catherine doesn’t have a lot of agency: She’s going to have to do what her father says, including marrying the man he’s picked out for her, however much she might rebel against the idea in her diary. That rebelling feels a little anachronistic, but I’m not sure a middle grades reader would be able to identify with Catherine at all without it so I think it’s an understandable conceit. If you’re studying the Middle Ages any time soon, you will definitely want to have this one on your list.
Daughters of the Night Sky, by Aimie K. Runyan, $4.99. This novel highlights a lesser known story of WWI, that of the Russian Night Witches. This all female regiment of pilots terrorizes the Nazis, flying dangerous but crucial missions. Runyan takes readers along on the harrowing flights, then considers how life must change once the war is over.
What Can a Citizen Do?, by Dave Eggers and Shawn Harris, $1.99. This beautifully illustrated children’s book is an introduction to what citizenship means today. The words are a call to action (“A citizen should be engaged. A citizen should care and care.”) and the cut paper illustrations are wonderfully diverse.
The Final Six, by Alexandra Monir, $1.99. This exciting YA novel reads somewhat like The Martian, but with teens in the main roles. From the publisher: When Leo and Naomi are drafted, along with twenty-two of the world’s brightest teenagers, into the International Space Training Camp, their lives are forever changed. Overnight, they become global celebrities in contention for one of the six slots to travel to Europa—Jupiter’s moon—and establish a new colony, leaving their planet forever. With Earth irreparably damaged, the future of the human race rests on their shoulders. For Leo, an Italian championship swimmer, this kind of purpose is a reason to go on after losing his family. But Naomi, an Iranian-American science genius, is suspicious of the ISTC and the fact that a similar mission failed under mysterious circumstances, killing the astronauts onboard. She fears something equally sinister awaiting the Final Six beneath Europa’s surface.
Ingredients: A Visual Exploration of 75 Additives and 25 Food Products, by Dwight Eschliman and Steve Ettinger, $0.99. What is really in the food we eat? What is caramel color, anyway? What does xanthan gum actually do, and where does it come from? This fascinating collaboration between a photographer and a science writer will answer all of these questions and more. They break down all the ingredients in more than two dozen common foods to explain how all the pieces fit together. You may never look at Cool Ranch Doritos the same way, but you’ll enjoy learning about the process!
Children of Blood and Bone, by Tomi Adeyemi, $2.99. From our 2018 winter reading list: “This YA book is a fantastic fantasy about two girls who want to bring magic back to their land and a crown prince who would do anything to stop them, but it’s also about racism, prejudice, and xenophobia. This is probably the book everyone will be talking about.”
Unfamiliar Fishes, by Sarah Vowell, $4.99. I’ve loved Sarah Vowell since I first heard her contributions to This American Life. Her quirky history books cover unusual topics in her signature quippy style. This book takes on the Americanization of Hawaii, from the first settlers to the annexation. It’s a story of imperialism, native culture, and more.
What She Ate: Six Remarkable Women and the Food that Tells Their Stories, by Laura Shapiro, $4.99. This is biography told in a very different way; it absolutely fascinates me. From the publisher: What She Ate is a lively and unpredictable array of women; what they have in common with one another (and us) is a powerful relationship with food. They include Dorothy Wordsworth, whose food story transforms our picture of the life she shared with her famous poet brother; Rosa Lewis, the Edwardian-era Cockney caterer who cooked her way up the social ladder; Eleanor Roosevelt, First Lady and rigorous protector of the worst cook in White House history; Eva Braun, Hitler’s mistress, who challenges our warm associations of food, family, and table; Barbara Pym, whose witty books upend a host of stereotypes about postwar British cuisine; and Helen Gurley Brown, the editor of Cosmopolitan, whose commitment to “having it all” meant having almost nothing on the plate except a supersized portion of diet gelatin.
Monsters You Should Know, by Emma Sancartier, $1.99. This is the cutest book about horrifying monsters that you will ever see. Truly creepy monsters from folklore around the world are illustrated in a scary but still somehow charming style. This is a picture book, but probably best for ages 8+. You could shape an interesting unit study around researching these monsters.
Bliss, by Kathryn Littlewood, $3.99. The Bliss family runs a popular bakery with a secret: many of the recipes come from the family’s magic “Cookery Booke,” an ancient and powerful resource. Rosemary Bliss is looking after her siblings while her parents go out of town, leaving strict instructions not to open the book without supervision. When mysterious Aunt Lily shows up unexpectedly, the kids don’t think it would be too problematic to make some recipes from the book for her. What could possibly go wrong? This middle grade book is warm, funny, and packed with delicious details.
Guitar Zero, by Gary Marcus, $4.99. You’re never too old, or too young, to learn music. Gary Marcus was nearly 40 when he decided he wanted to learn the guitar despite having little musical experience or skill. Marcus is a scientist, and he describes both his personal musical journey and the science behind how the brain integrates new skills.
The Bone Houses, by Emily Lloyd-Jones, $2.99. I have heard so much about this book. It is a creepy delight of a YA novel. Ryn and her family tend the graveyard in the small town of Colbren. The problem is, the bodies don’t always stay dead. Sometimes the dead “bone houses” come back to life. When the risings start to increase, Ryn and apprentice mapmaker Ellis must journey to discover the secret of the curse that is tormenting the town. This is a brand new novel that is getting a lot of buzz.
The Read-Aloud Handbook, by Jim Trelease, $4.99. Every household should have a copy of this book, a guide to awesome books to read with children. The first half of the book explain why you should read aloud to the children in your life. There are sections on problem solving for reluctant readers or listeners, as well as a section specifically on getting dads involved in the reading process. The second half of the book is a giant compendium of read-aloud books. Each book listed has a short summary, suggested age group, notes about any sensitive topics, and a list of related books. This edition was released in 2013; an updated version was just published, but it is not on sale.
Northanger Abbey, by Val McDermid, $1.99. A few years ago, a group of acclaimed authors decided to write new interpretations of each of Jane Austen’s novels. Val McDermid, author of many bestselling mysteries, decided to take on Austen’s creepiest novel, Northanger Abbey. In this modern retelling, homeschooled bookworm Cat Morland is invited by the Allen family to attend the Edinburgh Fringe Festival with them. In Edinburgh, she meets the Thorpe family, as well as handsome lawyer Henry Tilney. But is everything really as it seems? This version of Northanger Abbey will thrill and chill Austen fans and neophytes alike.
Ivy and Bean Books 1-3, by Annie Barrows, $1.99. These sweet and funny stories are perfect for your new reader. My daughter has moved far beyond this series, but still often picks up one of these books to reread in a single sitting. From my junior reviewer: “I really love these books because the characters are believably drawn with just the right amount of humor. They tie in hilarious and unusual circumstances, including magic sometimes, with things I have experienced. They have a very specific sense of humor, which I share, and I can relate to almost all of the characters.”
Brief Answers to the Big Questions, by Stephen Hawking, $2.99. Famed cosmologist Stephen Hawking has written many books, but this one is a little different. At the end of his life, he set out to answer some important questions. Is there other intelligent life in the universe? Is time travel possible? How do we shape the future? Hawking offers his own opinions on these and more. (Note: There is some discussion of religion and atheism.)
The House in Poplar Wood, by K.E. Ormsbee, $1.99. When I saw this book described as “Haunted Mansion meets Stranger Things,” I was totally hooked. The publisher has written a better summary than I possibly could: “For as long as the Vickery twins can remember, Lee and his mother have served Memory, while Felix and his father assist Death. This is the Agreement. But one Halloween, Gretchen Whipple smashes her way into their lives. Her bargain is simple: If the twins help her solve the murder of local girl Essie Hasting, she'll help them break the Agreement. The more the three investigate, however, the more they realize that something's gone terribly wrong in their town. Death is on the loose, and if history repeats itself, Essie's might not be the last murder in Poplar Wood. Simultaneously heartwarming and delightfully spooky, The House in Poplar Wood is a story about a boy's desire to be free, a girl's desire to make a difference, and a family's desire to be together again.”
Emily’s Runaway Imagination, by Beverly Cleary, $4.99. This is a charming but lesser-known middle grade book from beloved children’s author Beverly Cleary. Emily reminds me of Pippi Longstocking without the clearly impossible situations. From the publisher: “Spunky Emily Bartlett lives in an old farmhouse in Pitchfork, Oregon'at a time when automobiles are brand-new inventions and libraries are a luxury few small towns can afford. Her runaway imagination leads her to bleach a horse, hold a very scary sleepover, and feed the hogs an unusual treat. But can she use her lively mind to help bring a library to Pitchfork?”
Tangled in Time: The Portal, by Kathryn Lasky, $1.99. This charming middle grade novel is a time travel story. Rose finds a time portal in her grandmother’s greenhouse that transports her to the the court of Henry VIII. She befriends the young Princess Elizabeth and discovers a mysterious locket that may hold a secret connecting Rose to the Tudor world.
The Omnivore’s Dilemma, by Michael Pollan, $1.99. The concept of this book is simple — Michael Pollan takes four meals and traces each ingredient back to it’s agricultural origins. Along the way, he discovers much about the business and culture of our modern food landscape. From McDonald’s to Whole Foods and several stops in between, Pollan considers the health and environmental implications of our food choices. There’s also a young reader’s edition if you’d like to include kids in the dinner table discussions.
Dear Data, by Giogia Lupi and Stefanie Posavec, $2.99. This book has a fascinating concept: two friends in different countries sent each other a postcard every week for a year. Every week had a theme, and the two friends recorded data about their lives and created a way to represent it visually. The result is more than 100 postcards illustrating the details of their lives. You’ll find this a great discussion starter about ways to visually represent ideas.
Talking Across the Divide: How to Communicate with People You Disagree with and Maybe Even Change the World, by Justin Lee, $4.99. I run a large homeschool co-op, which puts me in the position to get to know a wide variety of people. Books like Talking Across the Divide in invaluable in the current political climate for helping people find ways to connect.
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 Hero’s Guide to Saving Your Kingdom, by Christopher Healy, $1.99. You think you know the classic fairytale stories, but they are usually centered around the princesses. This fun middle grade series focuses on the princes. After the “happily ever after” the princes discover that their kingdoms are in danger, and they set off take on all kinds of mythical monsters. This fun and funny book is the first in a series that your middle-grade reader will love.
The Mind’s Eye, by Oliver Sacks, $4.99. What would your life be like if you lost a fundamental part of your sensory experience? Neuroscientist Oliver Sacks explores what makes us who we are in this collection of profiles. From the concert pianist who loses the ability to read music to the woman who finds herself unable to speak, Sacks deftly recreates the breadth of human experience.
Cut in Half: The Hidden World of Everyday Objects, by Mike 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.)
Art Before Breakfast: A Zillion Ways to be More Creative No Matter How Busy You Are, by Danny Gregory, $2.99. My daughter loves doing art, and fills lots of her spare time making things. I’ve never considered myself an artist and struggle to find time to develop my skills. This book is a great place to start. Danny Gregory has created short, fun activities that take 10 minutes or less. They will encourage you to make art a regular part of your life. This book is a great way to add some art education to your homeschool, or to carve out a bit of time for your own creativity.
Forensics: What Bugs, Burns, Prints, DNA, and More Tell Us About Crime, by Val McDermid, $1.99. Val McDermid is fascinated by forensics in a way only a mystery writer can be. She has a keen eye for detail, and she can make dry facts seem riveting. You’ll come away from this book much more knowledgeable about the facts of crime investigation (as opposed to some of the technological magic of CSI).
50 Inventions That Shaped the Modern Economy, by Tim Harford, $4.99. I love this kind of book, a history through specific objects. Here’s how the publisher describes it: “Fifty Inventions That Shaped the Modern Economy paints an epic picture of change in an intimate way by telling the stories of the tools, people, and ideas that had far-reaching consequences for all of us. From the plough to artificial intelligence, from Gillette’s disposable razor to IKEA’s Billy bookcase, bestselling author and Financial Times columnist Tim Harford recounts each invention’s own curious, surprising, and memorable story.”
The Physics of Superheroes: Spectacular Second Edition, by James Kakalios, $4.99. Why did Krypton explode? How does Spiderman’s webbing actually work? How do you make a lightweight, bulletproof costume? Kakalios, a physics and astronomy professor, knows his stuff and can explain it with humor and detail. This second edition has three new chapters, so it might be worth a buy even if you’ve already read the first edition.
The Wizards of Once, by Cressida Cowell, $1.99. My family loved the How to Train Your Dragon series, and we are excited to begin another series by Cressida Cowell. Here’s what the publisher says: Once there were Wizards, who were Magic, and Warriors, who were not. But Xar, son of the King of Wizards, can't cast a single spell. And Wish, daughter of the Warrior Queen, has a banned magical object of her own. When they collide in the wildwood, on the trail of a deadly witch, it's the start of a grand adventure that just might change the fabric of their worlds.
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.)
Hamstersaurus Rex, by Tom O’Donnell, $1.99. Is this another creepy book for Halloween? Yes and no. This wild middle school story will entertain and delight while still addressing some tougher emotional issues. From the publisher: “When a mysterious growling hamster appears at the back of his class, Sam knows just what to call him: Hamstersaurus Rex. Sam tries to protect Hammie from an overzealous Hamster Monitor, and from the meanest bully in the history of Horace Hotwater Middle School. The bully isn’t afraid of some weird little class pet. But maybe he should be. Hamstersaurus Rex is no ordinary hamster.”
Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking, by Susan Cain, $2.99. Introverts may be overrepresented in the homeschool world. I was just having a discussion with my daughter about how many social norms are set up by and for extroverted people. This insightful book is a celebration of introverts, an analysis of their role in society, and a guide for ways that introverts can find success. This is an excellent book, whether you are an introvert or want to understand an introvert. There’s also a children’s version that I am looking forward to sharing with my family.
Making the Monster: The Science Behind Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, by Katheryn Harkup, $1.99. Another Halloween-related book for October! From the publisher: Making the Monster explores the scientific background behind Mary Shelley's book. Is there any science fact behind the science fiction? And how might a real-life Victor Frankenstein have gone about creating his monster? From tales of volcanic eruptions, artificial life and chemical revolutions, to experimental surgery, 'monsters' and electrical experiments on human cadavers, Kathryn Harkup examines the science and scientists that influenced Shelley, and inspired her most famous creation.”
Corsets & Codpieces, by Karen Bowman, $1.99. How did 18th century women get their skirts to stick out to far? Why did medieval men accentuate their figure with over the top codpieces? This book explores the history of outrageous fashion. (Note: As you might expect from the title, sex comes up fairly often. This might be a good choice for teens and adults.)
Penny and Her Song, by Kevin Henkes, $4.99. Your beginning reader will love this series about Penny, an adorable and charming young mouse. Penny comes home with a new song that she is so eager to sing! However, her parents beg her to keep quiet while her twin siblings are sleeping. Will Penny ever be able to share her music? This is an excellent book for early readers ready to venture into short chapter books. It was one of my daughter’s favorite’s when she began reading on her own.
You Are Not So Smart, by David McRay, $1.99. We all like to believe that we know why we do the things we do, but what is the reality? David McRay breaks it down for you in the pithy guide to common ways your brain is tricking you. From the Dunning-Kruger Effect to the Straw Man Delusion, McRay patiently guides the reader through modern psychological research. The tone is fairly light, and the real world examples are plentiful. This book is broken down into 48 short sections ideal for quick dipping into for discussion around the dinner table.
American Trailblazers: 50 Remarkable People Who Shaped U.S. History, by Lisa Trusiani, $1.99. Yesterday was full of history deals, but they were all for older readers, so I was glad to find something for my younger historians today. American Trailblazers profiles men and women from many fields who have accomplished impressive things. I was pleased to see racial and gender diversity in the performers, scientists, writers, and other careers mentioned. Cute illustrations make this book inviting, and the lists of related people to investigate will let kids dig deep into their interests.
How to Knit: Learn the Basic Stitches and Techniques, by Lesley Ann Bestor, $2.99. There is finally, FINALLY, a chill in the air, and that means it is time to start planning cozy inside activities for the winter months. Maybe this is the year your family dabbles with fiber arts. How to Knit is a cheerful, basic guide to all you’ll need to make your first knitting projects. If you want something more substantial, The Knowledgeable Knitter leaves no stitch unturned. Not sure knitting is for you? How to Crochet is also on sale!
Sisters in Law: How Sandra Day O’Connor and Ruth Bader Ginsburg Went to the Supreme Court and Changed the World, by Linda R. Hirshman, $2.99. At first glance, Ginsburg and O’Connor would seem to have little in common. Their backgrounds are different in virtually every particular. It was their career path, and the inherent struggles in trailblazing a path for women in the law, that brought them together and helped them to develop a warm working relationship and friendship. Sisters in Law is a biography of these two remarkable women and their work to improve women’s lives in America.
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.
In a Dark, Dark Room and Other Scary Stories, by Alvin Schwartz, $1.99. Some kids just LOVE to be creeped out, and it’s never too early to get a delightfully spooky book into their hands. This is a collection of scary stories for beginning readers. Turn down the lights and let your child give a haunted story hour. The vibrant and twisted illustrations add to the fun.
Dear Martin, by Nic Stone, $1.99. From our 2017 Fall Book Guide: Teenage Justyce starts a journal writing to Martin Luther King, Jr., after a false arrest has him questioning racism and resistance in his world. When his worst fears are realized in a police shooting, Justyce has to confront the darkest parts of himself and the world he lives in.
Letters of Note, Volume 1, by Shaun Usher, $3.99. Letters can be surprising, meaningful, and just plain odd. Shaun Usher has collected more than 100 interesting letters to share in this volume. You can read a letter from Elvis to President Nixon which Elvis offers to become a Federal Agent. The letters cover a wide time period and topics from politics to art to food. Each letter includes a big of background information, and many include a photo of the letter itself. This is a fun book to dip into over and over again.
Coraline: The Graphic Novel, by Neil Gaiman and P. Craig Russell, $1.99. Coraline is a classic creepy tale about a girl who discovers an alternate version of her reality when she moves to a new house. At first the new house and new family seems like all Coraline has ever wanted, but things are not as they seem. I will never look at a Lalaloopsy doll in the same way having read this book. The realistic drawings increase the creep factor, making it more unsettling than the movie adaptation.
Beatrix Potter’s Gardening Life, by Marta McDowell, $1.99. Beatrix Potter’s stories of sentient animals getting up to mischief have charmed children and parents for generations. Her beautiful watercolor illustrations really bring her characters to life. In this book, McDowell describes the events that shaped Potter’s love of the outdoors, then takes readers on a guided tour of the outdoor settings that are so crucial to Potter’s work. Gorgeous watercolors and photos enhance the reading experience.
Life in a Medieval Castle, by Frances and Joseph Gies, $1.99. Interest in the medieval period had a resurgence in popularity with the rise of Game of Thrones. But you don’t need to be a die-hard dragon fan to appreciate this comprehensive guide to medieval life. The Gieses cover everything from food to heating to knights’ training. The comprehensive index makes it easy to dip in for just the information you need, or you can curl up and dive deep into a world long past.
The Sky Below, by Scott Parazynski and Susy Flory, $0.99. Scott Parazynski’s memoir of the adventures and training that led him to become an astronaut is fascinating. What makes this book thrilling, though, is the Kindle in Motion feature. When you read this book on a Kindle Fire or the Kindle app on another tablet, you will marvel at the embedded video. The pages come to live with views of rockets launching, the earth from space, and more. This is a must have for anyone interested in space flight.
How to Draw Cool Things, by Rachel Goldstein, $2.99. When I was in school, every class had at least one kid who knew how to make cool lettering or designs in the margins of the paper. I felt like it was some kind of magical power. Now your kids can be in on the secrets with this fun guide to drawing optical illusions, 3D doodles, and more. Twelve-year-old me is so jealous.
The Dark Descent of Elizabeth Frankenstein, by Kiersten White, $1.99. Continuing our creepy theme for the day, we have this exciting and unsettling YA retelling of Frankenstein. Elizabeth is a neglected child who is brought into the Frankenstein family as a companion for the troubled Victor. She lives with the Frankensteins for years, her one task being to control Victor’s temper and dark impulses. But what must she do to keep him happy? Teens and adults with enjoy this “exquisitely disturbing” novel. The bonus copy of Mary Shelley’s original novel included in the ebook will make for an excellent comparative literature lesson.
Stopping for a Spell, by Diana Wynne Jones, $2.99. You may know Diana Wynne Jones from her excellent Howl’s Moving Castle and Chrestomanci series. She is a master of immersive fantasy for young readers. Stopping for a Spell is a collection of three shorter stories designed for slightly younger readers. Set in a mostly familiar 20th century England with only a few magical differences, these tales will delight middle grade readers. Furniture comes to life, mysterious grannies come to stay, and more. Charming and detailed illustrations round out an enjoyable reading experience that will be a great introduction to the author’s work for new readers.
Why Do Clocks Run Clockwise?, by David Feldman, $2.99. Do you have that kid who always wants to know the answers to weird questions? Are you the grown-up version of that kid? David Feldman’s Imponderables series is just the thing for you. He answers such questions as “why do dogs circle before lying down?” and “why is a telephone keypad arranged differently from a calculator?” Feldman tracks down experts to get to the bottom of many strange questions. The short sections make this book appealing to casual readers who might not pick up a novel.
The Tale of Despereaux, by Kate DiCamillo, $4.08. This thrilling tale of adventure tells the story of Despereaux, a brave young mouse who takes on an extraordinary quest This moving story will delight readers young and old, though it is somewhat darker than you might expect from the cover art. Beautiful illustrations set the tone.
Kindle Deals for October 28, 2019
Rubber ducks, carnivorous plants, the secrets of happy parents, and more in today’s Kindle deals.
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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Lord of the Flies, by William Golding, $1.99. This is a classic of coming-of-age literature found on many high school curricula. A group of boys is stranded on an island after a school trip gone horribly wrong. With no adults to guide them, they must govern themselves and find a way off of the island. They have some remarkable successes and some very memorable failures. Read this book to start a discussion of human nature.
How to Be a Happier Parent, by KJ Dell’Antonia, $4.99. I’ve really enjoyed Dell’Antonia’s New York Times parenting column. This book collects and connects some of the recurring themes about how to find a greater sense of happiness and peace through the parenting journey. From the publisher: In this optimistic, solution-packed book, KJ asks: How can we change our family life so that it is full of the joy we'd always hoped for? Drawing from the latest research and interviews with families, KJ discovers that it's possible to do more by doing less, and make our family life a refuge and pleasure, rather than another stress point in a hectic day. She focuses on nine common problem spots that cause parents the most grief, explores why they are hard, and offers small, doable, sometimes surprising steps you can take to make them better.
Moby-Duck: The True Story of 28,800 Bath Toys Lost at Sea & of the Beachcombers, Oceanographers, Environmentalists & Fools Including the Author Who Went in Search of Them, by Donovan Hohn, $4.99. A few years ago, an entire shipping container full of rubber ducks went missing in transit. The ducks were carried along by ocean currents and began showing up on beaches around the world. Donovan Hohn decided to track down some ducks and find out more about the natural forces behind the story. He learned way more than he expected. This book follows him on what became an epic adventure into ocean currents, shipping conglomerates, global economics, and more.
The Savage Garden: Cultivating Carnivorous Plants, by Peter D’Amato, $4.99. No, we are not talking about the ‘90s band, we are talking about plants that eat insects and other small creatures. My kid has been fascinated by meat-eating plants for years; they go against the basic biology we teach small children. This book describes in great detail the most common types of carnivorous plants and how you might grow them at home. With a chapter called “Other Savage Plants from the Demented Mind of Mother Nature,” this book feels perfect for some spooky fall reading. The well-researched plant descriptions and beautiful photos make this book an interesting pick even if you have no intention of growing your own carnivorous plants.
STILL ON SALE
Catherine, Called Birdy, by Karen Cushman, $3.99. From our Great Epistolary Novels list: It’s problematic, of course, to pretend that we can understand what might have gone on in the head 14th century girl, but Cushman makes a solid effort here, and this novel — which takes the form of Catherine’s journal — paints a fascinating (and well researched) picture of medieval life. Catherine doesn’t have a lot of agency: She’s going to have to do what her father says, including marrying the man he’s picked out for her, however much she might rebel against the idea in her diary. That rebelling feels a little anachronistic, but I’m not sure a middle grades reader would be able to identify with Catherine at all without it so I think it’s an understandable conceit. If you’re studying the Middle Ages any time soon, you will definitely want to have this one on your list.
Daughters of the Night Sky, by Aimie K. Runyan, $4.99. This novel highlights a lesser known story of WWI, that of the Russian Night Witches. This all female regiment of pilots terrorizes the Nazis, flying dangerous but crucial missions. Runyan takes readers along on the harrowing flights, then considers how life must change once the war is over.
What Can a Citizen Do?, by Dave Eggers and Shawn Harris, $1.99. This beautifully illustrated children’s book is an introduction to what citizenship means today. The words are a call to action (“A citizen should be engaged. A citizen should care and care.”) and the cut paper illustrations are wonderfully diverse.
The Final Six, by Alexandra Monir, $1.99. This exciting YA novel reads somewhat like The Martian, but with teens in the main roles. From the publisher: When Leo and Naomi are drafted, along with twenty-two of the world’s brightest teenagers, into the International Space Training Camp, their lives are forever changed. Overnight, they become global celebrities in contention for one of the six slots to travel to Europa—Jupiter’s moon—and establish a new colony, leaving their planet forever. With Earth irreparably damaged, the future of the human race rests on their shoulders. For Leo, an Italian championship swimmer, this kind of purpose is a reason to go on after losing his family. But Naomi, an Iranian-American science genius, is suspicious of the ISTC and the fact that a similar mission failed under mysterious circumstances, killing the astronauts onboard. She fears something equally sinister awaiting the Final Six beneath Europa’s surface.
Ingredients: A Visual Exploration of 75 Additives and 25 Food Products, by Dwight Eschliman and Steve Ettinger, $0.99. What is really in the food we eat? What is caramel color, anyway? What does xanthan gum actually do, and where does it come from? This fascinating collaboration between a photographer and a science writer will answer all of these questions and more. They break down all the ingredients in more than two dozen common foods to explain how all the pieces fit together. You may never look at Cool Ranch Doritos the same way, but you’ll enjoy learning about the process!
Children of Blood and Bone, by Tomi Adeyemi, $2.99. From our 2018 winter reading list: “This YA book is a fantastic fantasy about two girls who want to bring magic back to their land and a crown prince who would do anything to stop them, but it’s also about racism, prejudice, and xenophobia. This is probably the book everyone will be talking about.”
Unfamiliar Fishes, by Sarah Vowell, $4.99. I’ve loved Sarah Vowell since I first heard her contributions to This American Life. Her quirky history books cover unusual topics in her signature quippy style. This book takes on the Americanization of Hawaii, from the first settlers to the annexation. It’s a story of imperialism, native culture, and more.
What She Ate: Six Remarkable Women and the Food that Tells Their Stories, by Laura Shapiro, $4.99. This is biography told in a very different way; it absolutely fascinates me. From the publisher: What She Ate is a lively and unpredictable array of women; what they have in common with one another (and us) is a powerful relationship with food. They include Dorothy Wordsworth, whose food story transforms our picture of the life she shared with her famous poet brother; Rosa Lewis, the Edwardian-era Cockney caterer who cooked her way up the social ladder; Eleanor Roosevelt, First Lady and rigorous protector of the worst cook in White House history; Eva Braun, Hitler’s mistress, who challenges our warm associations of food, family, and table; Barbara Pym, whose witty books upend a host of stereotypes about postwar British cuisine; and Helen Gurley Brown, the editor of Cosmopolitan, whose commitment to “having it all” meant having almost nothing on the plate except a supersized portion of diet gelatin.
Monsters You Should Know, by Emma Sancartier, $1.99. This is the cutest book about horrifying monsters that you will ever see. Truly creepy monsters from folklore around the world are illustrated in a scary but still somehow charming style. This is a picture book, but probably best for ages 8+. You could shape an interesting unit study around researching these monsters.
Bliss, by Kathryn Littlewood, $3.99. The Bliss family runs a popular bakery with a secret: many of the recipes come from the family’s magic “Cookery Booke,” an ancient and powerful resource. Rosemary Bliss is looking after her siblings while her parents go out of town, leaving strict instructions not to open the book without supervision. When mysterious Aunt Lily shows up unexpectedly, the kids don’t think it would be too problematic to make some recipes from the book for her. What could possibly go wrong? This middle grade book is warm, funny, and packed with delicious details.
Guitar Zero, by Gary Marcus, $4.99. You’re never too old, or too young, to learn music. Gary Marcus was nearly 40 when he decided he wanted to learn the guitar despite having little musical experience or skill. Marcus is a scientist, and he describes both his personal musical journey and the science behind how the brain integrates new skills.
The Bone Houses, by Emily Lloyd-Jones, $2.99. I have heard so much about this book. It is a creepy delight of a YA novel. Ryn and her family tend the graveyard in the small town of Colbren. The problem is, the bodies don’t always stay dead. Sometimes the dead “bone houses” come back to life. When the risings start to increase, Ryn and apprentice mapmaker Ellis must journey to discover the secret of the curse that is tormenting the town. This is a brand new novel that is getting a lot of buzz.
The Read-Aloud Handbook, by Jim Trelease, $4.99. Every household should have a copy of this book, a guide to awesome books to read with children. The first half of the book explain why you should read aloud to the children in your life. There are sections on problem solving for reluctant readers or listeners, as well as a section specifically on getting dads involved in the reading process. The second half of the book is a giant compendium of read-aloud books. Each book listed has a short summary, suggested age group, notes about any sensitive topics, and a list of related books. This edition was released in 2013; an updated version was just published, but it is not on sale.
Northanger Abbey, by Val McDermid, $1.99. A few years ago, a group of acclaimed authors decided to write new interpretations of each of Jane Austen’s novels. Val McDermid, author of many bestselling mysteries, decided to take on Austen’s creepiest novel, Northanger Abbey. In this modern retelling, homeschooled bookworm Cat Morland is invited by the Allen family to attend the Edinburgh Fringe Festival with them. In Edinburgh, she meets the Thorpe family, as well as handsome lawyer Henry Tilney. But is everything really as it seems? This version of Northanger Abbey will thrill and chill Austen fans and neophytes alike.
Ivy and Bean Books 1-3, by Annie Barrows, $1.99. These sweet and funny stories are perfect for your new reader. My daughter has moved far beyond this series, but still often picks up one of these books to reread in a single sitting. From my junior reviewer: “I really love these books because the characters are believably drawn with just the right amount of humor. They tie in hilarious and unusual circumstances, including magic sometimes, with things I have experienced. They have a very specific sense of humor, which I share, and I can relate to almost all of the characters.”
Brief Answers to the Big Questions, by Stephen Hawking, $2.99. Famed cosmologist Stephen Hawking has written many books, but this one is a little different. At the end of his life, he set out to answer some important questions. Is there other intelligent life in the universe? Is time travel possible? How do we shape the future? Hawking offers his own opinions on these and more. (Note: There is some discussion of religion and atheism.)
The House in Poplar Wood, by K.E. Ormsbee, $1.99. When I saw this book described as “Haunted Mansion meets Stranger Things,” I was totally hooked. The publisher has written a better summary than I possibly could: “For as long as the Vickery twins can remember, Lee and his mother have served Memory, while Felix and his father assist Death. This is the Agreement. But one Halloween, Gretchen Whipple smashes her way into their lives. Her bargain is simple: If the twins help her solve the murder of local girl Essie Hasting, she'll help them break the Agreement. The more the three investigate, however, the more they realize that something's gone terribly wrong in their town. Death is on the loose, and if history repeats itself, Essie's might not be the last murder in Poplar Wood. Simultaneously heartwarming and delightfully spooky, The House in Poplar Wood is a story about a boy's desire to be free, a girl's desire to make a difference, and a family's desire to be together again.”
Emily’s Runaway Imagination, by Beverly Cleary, $4.99. This is a charming but lesser-known middle grade book from beloved children’s author Beverly Cleary. Emily reminds me of Pippi Longstocking without the clearly impossible situations. From the publisher: “Spunky Emily Bartlett lives in an old farmhouse in Pitchfork, Oregon'at a time when automobiles are brand-new inventions and libraries are a luxury few small towns can afford. Her runaway imagination leads her to bleach a horse, hold a very scary sleepover, and feed the hogs an unusual treat. But can she use her lively mind to help bring a library to Pitchfork?”
Tangled in Time: The Portal, by Kathryn Lasky, $1.99. This charming middle grade novel is a time travel story. Rose finds a time portal in her grandmother’s greenhouse that transports her to the the court of Henry VIII. She befriends the young Princess Elizabeth and discovers a mysterious locket that may hold a secret connecting Rose to the Tudor world.
The Omnivore’s Dilemma, by Michael Pollan, $1.99. The concept of this book is simple — Michael Pollan takes four meals and traces each ingredient back to it’s agricultural origins. Along the way, he discovers much about the business and culture of our modern food landscape. From McDonald’s to Whole Foods and several stops in between, Pollan considers the health and environmental implications of our food choices. There’s also a young reader’s edition if you’d like to include kids in the dinner table discussions.
Dear Data, by Giogia Lupi and Stefanie Posavec, $2.99. This book has a fascinating concept: two friends in different countries sent each other a postcard every week for a year. Every week had a theme, and the two friends recorded data about their lives and created a way to represent it visually. The result is more than 100 postcards illustrating the details of their lives. You’ll find this a great discussion starter about ways to visually represent ideas.
Talking Across the Divide: How to Communicate with People You Disagree with and Maybe Even Change the World, by Justin Lee, $4.99. I run a large homeschool co-op, which puts me in the position to get to know a wide variety of people. Books like Talking Across the Divide in invaluable in the current political climate for helping people find ways to connect.
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 Hero’s Guide to Saving Your Kingdom, by Christopher Healy, $1.99. You think you know the classic fairytale stories, but they are usually centered around the princesses. This fun middle grade series focuses on the princes. After the “happily ever after” the princes discover that their kingdoms are in danger, and they set off take on all kinds of mythical monsters. This fun and funny book is the first in a series that your middle-grade reader will love.
The Mind’s Eye, by Oliver Sacks, $4.99. What would your life be like if you lost a fundamental part of your sensory experience? Neuroscientist Oliver Sacks explores what makes us who we are in this collection of profiles. From the concert pianist who loses the ability to read music to the woman who finds herself unable to speak, Sacks deftly recreates the breadth of human experience.
Cut in Half: The Hidden World of Everyday Objects, by Mike 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.)
Art Before Breakfast: A Zillion Ways to be More Creative No Matter How Busy You Are, by Danny Gregory, $2.99. My daughter loves doing art, and fills lots of her spare time making things. I’ve never considered myself an artist and struggle to find time to develop my skills. This book is a great place to start. Danny Gregory has created short, fun activities that take 10 minutes or less. They will encourage you to make art a regular part of your life. This book is a great way to add some art education to your homeschool, or to carve out a bit of time for your own creativity.
Forensics: What Bugs, Burns, Prints, DNA, and More Tell Us About Crime, by Val McDermid, $1.99. Val McDermid is fascinated by forensics in a way only a mystery writer can be. She has a keen eye for detail, and she can make dry facts seem riveting. You’ll come away from this book much more knowledgeable about the facts of crime investigation (as opposed to some of the technological magic of CSI).
50 Inventions That Shaped the Modern Economy, by Tim Harford, $4.99. I love this kind of book, a history through specific objects. Here’s how the publisher describes it: “Fifty Inventions That Shaped the Modern Economy paints an epic picture of change in an intimate way by telling the stories of the tools, people, and ideas that had far-reaching consequences for all of us. From the plough to artificial intelligence, from Gillette’s disposable razor to IKEA’s Billy bookcase, bestselling author and Financial Times columnist Tim Harford recounts each invention’s own curious, surprising, and memorable story.”
The Physics of Superheroes: Spectacular Second Edition, by James Kakalios, $4.99. Why did Krypton explode? How does Spiderman’s webbing actually work? How do you make a lightweight, bulletproof costume? Kakalios, a physics and astronomy professor, knows his stuff and can explain it with humor and detail. This second edition has three new chapters, so it might be worth a buy even if you’ve already read the first edition.
The Wizards of Once, by Cressida Cowell, $1.99. My family loved the How to Train Your Dragon series, and we are excited to begin another series by Cressida Cowell. Here’s what the publisher says: Once there were Wizards, who were Magic, and Warriors, who were not. But Xar, son of the King of Wizards, can't cast a single spell. And Wish, daughter of the Warrior Queen, has a banned magical object of her own. When they collide in the wildwood, on the trail of a deadly witch, it's the start of a grand adventure that just might change the fabric of their worlds.
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.)
Hamstersaurus Rex, by Tom O’Donnell, $1.99. Is this another creepy book for Halloween? Yes and no. This wild middle school story will entertain and delight while still addressing some tougher emotional issues. From the publisher: “When a mysterious growling hamster appears at the back of his class, Sam knows just what to call him: Hamstersaurus Rex. Sam tries to protect Hammie from an overzealous Hamster Monitor, and from the meanest bully in the history of Horace Hotwater Middle School. The bully isn’t afraid of some weird little class pet. But maybe he should be. Hamstersaurus Rex is no ordinary hamster.”
Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking, by Susan Cain, $2.99. Introverts may be overrepresented in the homeschool world. I was just having a discussion with my daughter about how many social norms are set up by and for extroverted people. This insightful book is a celebration of introverts, an analysis of their role in society, and a guide for ways that introverts can find success. This is an excellent book, whether you are an introvert or want to understand an introvert. There’s also a children’s version that I am looking forward to sharing with my family.
Making the Monster: The Science Behind Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, by Katheryn Harkup, $1.99. Another Halloween-related book for October! From the publisher: Making the Monster explores the scientific background behind Mary Shelley's book. Is there any science fact behind the science fiction? And how might a real-life Victor Frankenstein have gone about creating his monster? From tales of volcanic eruptions, artificial life and chemical revolutions, to experimental surgery, 'monsters' and electrical experiments on human cadavers, Kathryn Harkup examines the science and scientists that influenced Shelley, and inspired her most famous creation.”
Corsets & Codpieces, by Karen Bowman, $1.99. How did 18th century women get their skirts to stick out to far? Why did medieval men accentuate their figure with over the top codpieces? This book explores the history of outrageous fashion. (Note: As you might expect from the title, sex comes up fairly often. This might be a good choice for teens and adults.)
Penny and Her Song, by Kevin Henkes, $4.99. Your beginning reader will love this series about Penny, an adorable and charming young mouse. Penny comes home with a new song that she is so eager to sing! However, her parents beg her to keep quiet while her twin siblings are sleeping. Will Penny ever be able to share her music? This is an excellent book for early readers ready to venture into short chapter books. It was one of my daughter’s favorite’s when she began reading on her own.
You Are Not So Smart, by David McRay, $1.99. We all like to believe that we know why we do the things we do, but what is the reality? David McRay breaks it down for you in the pithy guide to common ways your brain is tricking you. From the Dunning-Kruger Effect to the Straw Man Delusion, McRay patiently guides the reader through modern psychological research. The tone is fairly light, and the real world examples are plentiful. This book is broken down into 48 short sections ideal for quick dipping into for discussion around the dinner table.
American Trailblazers: 50 Remarkable People Who Shaped U.S. History, by Lisa Trusiani, $1.99. Yesterday was full of history deals, but they were all for older readers, so I was glad to find something for my younger historians today. American Trailblazers profiles men and women from many fields who have accomplished impressive things. I was pleased to see racial and gender diversity in the performers, scientists, writers, and other careers mentioned. Cute illustrations make this book inviting, and the lists of related people to investigate will let kids dig deep into their interests.
How to Knit: Learn the Basic Stitches and Techniques, by Lesley Ann Bestor, $2.99. There is finally, FINALLY, a chill in the air, and that means it is time to start planning cozy inside activities for the winter months. Maybe this is the year your family dabbles with fiber arts. How to Knit is a cheerful, basic guide to all you’ll need to make your first knitting projects. If you want something more substantial, The Knowledgeable Knitter leaves no stitch unturned. Not sure knitting is for you? How to Crochet is also on sale!
Sisters in Law: How Sandra Day O’Connor and Ruth Bader Ginsburg Went to the Supreme Court and Changed the World, by Linda R. Hirshman, $2.99. At first glance, Ginsburg and O’Connor would seem to have little in common. Their backgrounds are different in virtually every particular. It was their career path, and the inherent struggles in trailblazing a path for women in the law, that brought them together and helped them to develop a warm working relationship and friendship. Sisters in Law is a biography of these two remarkable women and their work to improve women’s lives in America.
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.
In a Dark, Dark Room and Other Scary Stories, by Alvin Schwartz, $1.99. Some kids just LOVE to be creeped out, and it’s never too early to get a delightfully spooky book into their hands. This is a collection of scary stories for beginning readers. Turn down the lights and let your child give a haunted story hour. The vibrant and twisted illustrations add to the fun.
Dear Martin, by Nic Stone, $1.99. From our 2017 Fall Book Guide: Teenage Justyce starts a journal writing to Martin Luther King, Jr., after a false arrest has him questioning racism and resistance in his world. When his worst fears are realized in a police shooting, Justyce has to confront the darkest parts of himself and the world he lives in.
Letters of Note, Volume 1, by Shaun Usher, $3.99. Letters can be surprising, meaningful, and just plain odd. Shaun Usher has collected more than 100 interesting letters to share in this volume. You can read a letter from Elvis to President Nixon which Elvis offers to become a Federal Agent. The letters cover a wide time period and topics from politics to art to food. Each letter includes a big of background information, and many include a photo of the letter itself. This is a fun book to dip into over and over again.
Coraline: The Graphic Novel, by Neil Gaiman and P. Craig Russell, $1.99. Coraline is a classic creepy tale about a girl who discovers an alternate version of her reality when she moves to a new house. At first the new house and new family seems like all Coraline has ever wanted, but things are not as they seem. I will never look at a Lalaloopsy doll in the same way having read this book. The realistic drawings increase the creep factor, making it more unsettling than the movie adaptation.
Beatrix Potter’s Gardening Life, by Marta McDowell, $1.99. Beatrix Potter’s stories of sentient animals getting up to mischief have charmed children and parents for generations. Her beautiful watercolor illustrations really bring her characters to life. In this book, McDowell describes the events that shaped Potter’s love of the outdoors, then takes readers on a guided tour of the outdoor settings that are so crucial to Potter’s work. Gorgeous watercolors and photos enhance the reading experience.
Life in a Medieval Castle, by Frances and Joseph Gies, $1.99. Interest in the medieval period had a resurgence in popularity with the rise of Game of Thrones. But you don’t need to be a die-hard dragon fan to appreciate this comprehensive guide to medieval life. The Gieses cover everything from food to heating to knights’ training. The comprehensive index makes it easy to dip in for just the information you need, or you can curl up and dive deep into a world long past.
The Sky Below, by Scott Parazynski and Susy Flory, $0.99. Scott Parazynski’s memoir of the adventures and training that led him to become an astronaut is fascinating. What makes this book thrilling, though, is the Kindle in Motion feature. When you read this book on a Kindle Fire or the Kindle app on another tablet, you will marvel at the embedded video. The pages come to live with views of rockets launching, the earth from space, and more. This is a must have for anyone interested in space flight.
How to Draw Cool Things, by Rachel Goldstein, $2.99. When I was in school, every class had at least one kid who knew how to make cool lettering or designs in the margins of the paper. I felt like it was some kind of magical power. Now your kids can be in on the secrets with this fun guide to drawing optical illusions, 3D doodles, and more. Twelve-year-old me is so jealous.
The Dark Descent of Elizabeth Frankenstein, by Kiersten White, $1.99. Continuing our creepy theme for the day, we have this exciting and unsettling YA retelling of Frankenstein. Elizabeth is a neglected child who is brought into the Frankenstein family as a companion for the troubled Victor. She lives with the Frankensteins for years, her one task being to control Victor’s temper and dark impulses. But what must she do to keep him happy? Teens and adults with enjoy this “exquisitely disturbing” novel. The bonus copy of Mary Shelley’s original novel included in the ebook will make for an excellent comparative literature lesson.
Stopping for a Spell, by Diana Wynne Jones, $2.99. You may know Diana Wynne Jones from her excellent Howl’s Moving Castle and Chrestomanci series. She is a master of immersive fantasy for young readers. Stopping for a Spell is a collection of three shorter stories designed for slightly younger readers. Set in a mostly familiar 20th century England with only a few magical differences, these tales will delight middle grade readers. Furniture comes to life, mysterious grannies come to stay, and more. Charming and detailed illustrations round out an enjoyable reading experience that will be a great introduction to the author’s work for new readers.
Why Do Clocks Run Clockwise?, by David Feldman, $2.99. Do you have that kid who always wants to know the answers to weird questions? Are you the grown-up version of that kid? David Feldman’s Imponderables series is just the thing for you. He answers such questions as “why do dogs circle before lying down?” and “why is a telephone keypad arranged differently from a calculator?” Feldman tracks down experts to get to the bottom of many strange questions. The short sections make this book appealing to casual readers who might not pick up a novel.
The Tale of Despereaux, by Kate DiCamillo, $4.08. This thrilling tale of adventure tells the story of Despereaux, a brave young mouse who takes on an extraordinary quest This moving story will delight readers young and old, though it is somewhat darker than you might expect from the cover art. Beautiful illustrations set the tone.
Kindle Deals for October 27, 2019
Historical fiction for all ages in today’s Kindle deals.
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.)
Amazon has dozens of historical fiction books on sale today only. Here are a few of my favorites. Descriptions will be brief so that I can show you more titles.
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Catherine, Called Birdy, by Karen Cushman, $1.99. From our Great Epistolary Novels list: It’s problematic, of course, to pretend that we can understand what might have gone on in the head 14th century girl, but Cushman makes a solid effort here, and this novel — which takes the form of Catherine’s journal — paints a fascinating (and well researched) picture of medieval life. Catherine doesn’t have a lot of agency: She’s going to have to do what her father says, including marrying the man he’s picked out for her, however much she might rebel against the idea in her diary. That rebelling feels a little anachronistic, but I’m not sure a middle grades reader would be able to identify with Catherine at all without it so I think it’s an understandable conceit. If you’re studying the Middle Ages any time soon, you will definitely want to have this one on your list.
Mycroft Holmes, by Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Anna Waterhouse, $1.99. Did you know basketball star Kareem Abdul-Jabbar is also a writer? He has created a new series around Mycroft Holmes, Sherlock’s brilliant and mysterious brother. The first in the series, this book is Mycroft’s origin story, taking him from college graduation through the events that set him on the road to becoming the secret power behind the British government.
Lizzie Bright and the Buckminster Boy, by Gary D. Schmidt, $1.99. This award winning middle grade novel really creates a vivid picture of Maine at the start of the 20th century. From the publisher: It only takes a few hours for Turner Buckminster to start hating Phippsburg, Maine. No one in town will let him forget that he's a minister's son, even if he doesn't act like one. But then he meets Lizzie Bright Griffin, a smart and sassy girl from a poor nearby island community founded by former slaves. Despite his father's-and the town's-disapproval of their friendship, Turner spends time with Lizzie, and it opens up a whole new world to him, filled with the mystery and wonder of Maine's rocky coast. The two soon discover that the town elders, along with Turner's father, want to force the people to leave Lizzie's island so that Phippsburg can start a lucrative tourist trade there. Turner gets caught up in a spiral of disasters that alter his life-but also lead him to new levels of acceptance and maturity. This sensitively written historical novel, based on the true story of a community's destruction, highlights a unique friendship during a time of change
The Glass Ocean, by Beatriz Williams, Lauren Willig, and Karen White, $2.99. Three historical fiction authors each take on a character’s perspective to create this warm and thrilling tale of the Lusitania’s doomed final journey. The story alternates between 2013 and 1915 as a modern researcher attempts to discover what really happened to her great-grandfather, who was a passenger on Lusitania. The other two perspectives are women on the liner, a wealthy Southern woman and a con woman trying to get out of a life of dishonesty.
Daughters of the Night Sky, by Aimie K. Runyan, $1.99. This novel highlights a lesser known story of WWI, that of the Russian Night Witches. This all female regiment of pilots terrorizes the Nazis, flying dangerous but crucial missions. Runyan takes readers along on the harrowing flights, then considers how life must change once the war is over.
Will Sparrow’s Road, by Karen Cushman, $1.99. From the publisher: In his thirteenth year, Will Sparrow, liar and thief, becomes a runaway. On the road, he encounters a series of con artists—a pickpocket, a tooth puller, a pig trainer, a conjurer—and learns that others are more adept than he at lying and thieving. Then he reluctantly joins a traveling troupe of "oddities," including a dwarf and a cat-faced girl, holding himself apart from the "monsters" and resolving to be on guard against further deceptions. At last Will is forced to understand that appearances are misleading and that he has been his own worst deceiver. The rowdy world of market fairs in Elizabethan England is the colorful backdrop for Newbery medalist Cushman's new comic masterpiece.
STILL ON SALE
What Can a Citizen Do?, by Dave Eggers and Shawn Harris, $1.99. This beautifully illustrated children’s book is an introduction to what citizenship means today. The words are a call to action (“A citizen should be engaged. A citizen should care and care.”) and the cut paper illustrations are wonderfully diverse.
The Final Six, by Alexandra Monir, $1.99. This exciting YA novel reads somewhat like The Martian, but with teens in the main roles. From the publisher: When Leo and Naomi are drafted, along with twenty-two of the world’s brightest teenagers, into the International Space Training Camp, their lives are forever changed. Overnight, they become global celebrities in contention for one of the six slots to travel to Europa—Jupiter’s moon—and establish a new colony, leaving their planet forever. With Earth irreparably damaged, the future of the human race rests on their shoulders. For Leo, an Italian championship swimmer, this kind of purpose is a reason to go on after losing his family. But Naomi, an Iranian-American science genius, is suspicious of the ISTC and the fact that a similar mission failed under mysterious circumstances, killing the astronauts onboard. She fears something equally sinister awaiting the Final Six beneath Europa’s surface.
Ingredients: A Visual Exploration of 75 Additives and 25 Food Products, by Dwight Eschliman and Steve Ettinger, $0.99. What is really in the food we eat? What is caramel color, anyway? What does xanthan gum actually do, and where does it come from? This fascinating collaboration between a photographer and a science writer will answer all of these questions and more. They break down all the ingredients in more than two dozen common foods to explain how all the pieces fit together. You may never look at Cool Ranch Doritos the same way, but you’ll enjoy learning about the process!
Children of Blood and Bone, by Tomi Adeyemi, $2.99. From our 2018 winter reading list: “This YA book is a fantastic fantasy about two girls who want to bring magic back to their land and a crown prince who would do anything to stop them, but it’s also about racism, prejudice, and xenophobia. This is probably the book everyone will be talking about.”
Unfamiliar Fishes, by Sarah Vowell, $4.99. I’ve loved Sarah Vowell since I first heard her contributions to This American Life. Her quirky history books cover unusual topics in her signature quippy style. This book takes on the Americanization of Hawaii, from the first settlers to the annexation. It’s a story of imperialism, native culture, and more.
What She Ate: Six Remarkable Women and the Food that Tells Their Stories, by Laura Shapiro, $4.99. This is biography told in a very different way; it absolutely fascinates me. From the publisher: What She Ate is a lively and unpredictable array of women; what they have in common with one another (and us) is a powerful relationship with food. They include Dorothy Wordsworth, whose food story transforms our picture of the life she shared with her famous poet brother; Rosa Lewis, the Edwardian-era Cockney caterer who cooked her way up the social ladder; Eleanor Roosevelt, First Lady and rigorous protector of the worst cook in White House history; Eva Braun, Hitler’s mistress, who challenges our warm associations of food, family, and table; Barbara Pym, whose witty books upend a host of stereotypes about postwar British cuisine; and Helen Gurley Brown, the editor of Cosmopolitan, whose commitment to “having it all” meant having almost nothing on the plate except a supersized portion of diet gelatin.
Monsters You Should Know, by Emma Sancartier, $1.99. This is the cutest book about horrifying monsters that you will ever see. Truly creepy monsters from folklore around the world are illustrated in a scary but still somehow charming style. This is a picture book, but probably best for ages 8+. You could shape an interesting unit study around researching these monsters.
Bliss, by Kathryn Littlewood, $3.99. The Bliss family runs a popular bakery with a secret: many of the recipes come from the family’s magic “Cookery Booke,” an ancient and powerful resource. Rosemary Bliss is looking after her siblings while her parents go out of town, leaving strict instructions not to open the book without supervision. When mysterious Aunt Lily shows up unexpectedly, the kids don’t think it would be too problematic to make some recipes from the book for her. What could possibly go wrong? This middle grade book is warm, funny, and packed with delicious details.
Guitar Zero, by Gary Marcus, $4.99. You’re never too old, or too young, to learn music. Gary Marcus was nearly 40 when he decided he wanted to learn the guitar despite having little musical experience or skill. Marcus is a scientist, and he describes both his personal musical journey and the science behind how the brain integrates new skills.
The Bone Houses, by Emily Lloyd-Jones, $2.99. I have heard so much about this book. It is a creepy delight of a YA novel. Ryn and her family tend the graveyard in the small town of Colbren. The problem is, the bodies don’t always stay dead. Sometimes the dead “bone houses” come back to life. When the risings start to increase, Ryn and apprentice mapmaker Ellis must journey to discover the secret of the curse that is tormenting the town. This is a brand new novel that is getting a lot of buzz.
The Read-Aloud Handbook, by Jim Trelease, $4.99. Every household should have a copy of this book, a guide to awesome books to read with children. The first half of the book explain why you should read aloud to the children in your life. There are sections on problem solving for reluctant readers or listeners, as well as a section specifically on getting dads involved in the reading process. The second half of the book is a giant compendium of read-aloud books. Each book listed has a short summary, suggested age group, notes about any sensitive topics, and a list of related books. This edition was released in 2013; an updated version was just published, but it is not on sale.
Northanger Abbey, by Val McDermid, $1.99. A few years ago, a group of acclaimed authors decided to write new interpretations of each of Jane Austen’s novels. Val McDermid, author of many bestselling mysteries, decided to take on Austen’s creepiest novel, Northanger Abbey. In this modern retelling, homeschooled bookworm Cat Morland is invited by the Allen family to attend the Edinburgh Fringe Festival with them. In Edinburgh, she meets the Thorpe family, as well as handsome lawyer Henry Tilney. But is everything really as it seems? This version of Northanger Abbey will thrill and chill Austen fans and neophytes alike.
Ivy and Bean Books 1-3, by Annie Barrows, $1.99. These sweet and funny stories are perfect for your new reader. My daughter has moved far beyond this series, but still often picks up one of these books to reread in a single sitting. From my junior reviewer: “I really love these books because the characters are believably drawn with just the right amount of humor. They tie in hilarious and unusual circumstances, including magic sometimes, with things I have experienced. They have a very specific sense of humor, which I share, and I can relate to almost all of the characters.”
Brief Answers to the Big Questions, by Stephen Hawking, $2.99. Famed cosmologist Stephen Hawking has written many books, but this one is a little different. At the end of his life, he set out to answer some important questions. Is there other intelligent life in the universe? Is time travel possible? How do we shape the future? Hawking offers his own opinions on these and more. (Note: There is some discussion of religion and atheism.)
The House in Poplar Wood, by K.E. Ormsbee, $1.99. When I saw this book described as “Haunted Mansion meets Stranger Things,” I was totally hooked. The publisher has written a better summary than I possibly could: “For as long as the Vickery twins can remember, Lee and his mother have served Memory, while Felix and his father assist Death. This is the Agreement. But one Halloween, Gretchen Whipple smashes her way into their lives. Her bargain is simple: If the twins help her solve the murder of local girl Essie Hasting, she'll help them break the Agreement. The more the three investigate, however, the more they realize that something's gone terribly wrong in their town. Death is on the loose, and if history repeats itself, Essie's might not be the last murder in Poplar Wood. Simultaneously heartwarming and delightfully spooky, The House in Poplar Wood is a story about a boy's desire to be free, a girl's desire to make a difference, and a family's desire to be together again.”
Emily’s Runaway Imagination, by Beverly Cleary, $4.99. This is a charming but lesser-known middle grade book from beloved children’s author Beverly Cleary. Emily reminds me of Pippi Longstocking without the clearly impossible situations. From the publisher: “Spunky Emily Bartlett lives in an old farmhouse in Pitchfork, Oregon'at a time when automobiles are brand-new inventions and libraries are a luxury few small towns can afford. Her runaway imagination leads her to bleach a horse, hold a very scary sleepover, and feed the hogs an unusual treat. But can she use her lively mind to help bring a library to Pitchfork?”
Tangled in Time: The Portal, by Kathryn Lasky, $1.99. This charming middle grade novel is a time travel story. Rose finds a time portal in her grandmother’s greenhouse that transports her to the the court of Henry VIII. She befriends the young Princess Elizabeth and discovers a mysterious locket that may hold a secret connecting Rose to the Tudor world.
The Omnivore’s Dilemma, by Michael Pollan, $1.99. The concept of this book is simple — Michael Pollan takes four meals and traces each ingredient back to it’s agricultural origins. Along the way, he discovers much about the business and culture of our modern food landscape. From McDonald’s to Whole Foods and several stops in between, Pollan considers the health and environmental implications of our food choices. There’s also a young reader’s edition if you’d like to include kids in the dinner table discussions.
Dear Data, by Giogia Lupi and Stefanie Posavec, $2.99. This book has a fascinating concept: two friends in different countries sent each other a postcard every week for a year. Every week had a theme, and the two friends recorded data about their lives and created a way to represent it visually. The result is more than 100 postcards illustrating the details of their lives. You’ll find this a great discussion starter about ways to visually represent ideas.
Talking Across the Divide: How to Communicate with People You Disagree with and Maybe Even Change the World, by Justin Lee, $4.99. I run a large homeschool co-op, which puts me in the position to get to know a wide variety of people. Books like Talking Across the Divide in invaluable in the current political climate for helping people find ways to connect.
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 Hero’s Guide to Saving Your Kingdom, by Christopher Healy, $1.99. You think you know the classic fairytale stories, but they are usually centered around the princesses. This fun middle grade series focuses on the princes. After the “happily ever after” the princes discover that their kingdoms are in danger, and they set off take on all kinds of mythical monsters. This fun and funny book is the first in a series that your middle-grade reader will love.
The Mind’s Eye, by Oliver Sacks, $4.99. What would your life be like if you lost a fundamental part of your sensory experience? Neuroscientist Oliver Sacks explores what makes us who we are in this collection of profiles. From the concert pianist who loses the ability to read music to the woman who finds herself unable to speak, Sacks deftly recreates the breadth of human experience.
Cut in Half: The Hidden World of Everyday Objects, by Mike 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.)
Art Before Breakfast: A Zillion Ways to be More Creative No Matter How Busy You Are, by Danny Gregory, $2.99. My daughter loves doing art, and fills lots of her spare time making things. I’ve never considered myself an artist and struggle to find time to develop my skills. This book is a great place to start. Danny Gregory has created short, fun activities that take 10 minutes or less. They will encourage you to make art a regular part of your life. This book is a great way to add some art education to your homeschool, or to carve out a bit of time for your own creativity.
Forensics: What Bugs, Burns, Prints, DNA, and More Tell Us About Crime, by Val McDermid, $1.99. Val McDermid is fascinated by forensics in a way only a mystery writer can be. She has a keen eye for detail, and she can make dry facts seem riveting. You’ll come away from this book much more knowledgeable about the facts of crime investigation (as opposed to some of the technological magic of CSI).
50 Inventions That Shaped the Modern Economy, by Tim Harford, $4.99. I love this kind of book, a history through specific objects. Here’s how the publisher describes it: “Fifty Inventions That Shaped the Modern Economy paints an epic picture of change in an intimate way by telling the stories of the tools, people, and ideas that had far-reaching consequences for all of us. From the plough to artificial intelligence, from Gillette’s disposable razor to IKEA’s Billy bookcase, bestselling author and Financial Times columnist Tim Harford recounts each invention’s own curious, surprising, and memorable story.”
The Physics of Superheroes: Spectacular Second Edition, by James Kakalios, $4.99. Why did Krypton explode? How does Spiderman’s webbing actually work? How do you make a lightweight, bulletproof costume? Kakalios, a physics and astronomy professor, knows his stuff and can explain it with humor and detail. This second edition has three new chapters, so it might be worth a buy even if you’ve already read the first edition.
The Wizards of Once, by Cressida Cowell, $1.99. My family loved the How to Train Your Dragon series, and we are excited to begin another series by Cressida Cowell. Here’s what the publisher says: Once there were Wizards, who were Magic, and Warriors, who were not. But Xar, son of the King of Wizards, can't cast a single spell. And Wish, daughter of the Warrior Queen, has a banned magical object of her own. When they collide in the wildwood, on the trail of a deadly witch, it's the start of a grand adventure that just might change the fabric of their worlds.
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.)
Hamstersaurus Rex, by Tom O’Donnell, $1.99. Is this another creepy book for Halloween? Yes and no. This wild middle school story will entertain and delight while still addressing some tougher emotional issues. From the publisher: “When a mysterious growling hamster appears at the back of his class, Sam knows just what to call him: Hamstersaurus Rex. Sam tries to protect Hammie from an overzealous Hamster Monitor, and from the meanest bully in the history of Horace Hotwater Middle School. The bully isn’t afraid of some weird little class pet. But maybe he should be. Hamstersaurus Rex is no ordinary hamster.”
Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking, by Susan Cain, $2.99. Introverts may be overrepresented in the homeschool world. I was just having a discussion with my daughter about how many social norms are set up by and for extroverted people. This insightful book is a celebration of introverts, an analysis of their role in society, and a guide for ways that introverts can find success. This is an excellent book, whether you are an introvert or want to understand an introvert. There’s also a children’s version that I am looking forward to sharing with my family.
Making the Monster: The Science Behind Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, by Katheryn Harkup, $1.99. Another Halloween-related book for October! From the publisher: Making the Monster explores the scientific background behind Mary Shelley's book. Is there any science fact behind the science fiction? And how might a real-life Victor Frankenstein have gone about creating his monster? From tales of volcanic eruptions, artificial life and chemical revolutions, to experimental surgery, 'monsters' and electrical experiments on human cadavers, Kathryn Harkup examines the science and scientists that influenced Shelley, and inspired her most famous creation.”
Corsets & Codpieces, by Karen Bowman, $1.99. How did 18th century women get their skirts to stick out to far? Why did medieval men accentuate their figure with over the top codpieces? This book explores the history of outrageous fashion. (Note: As you might expect from the title, sex comes up fairly often. This might be a good choice for teens and adults.)
Penny and Her Song, by Kevin Henkes, $4.99. Your beginning reader will love this series about Penny, an adorable and charming young mouse. Penny comes home with a new song that she is so eager to sing! However, her parents beg her to keep quiet while her twin siblings are sleeping. Will Penny ever be able to share her music? This is an excellent book for early readers ready to venture into short chapter books. It was one of my daughter’s favorite’s when she began reading on her own.
You Are Not So Smart, by David McRay, $1.99. We all like to believe that we know why we do the things we do, but what is the reality? David McRay breaks it down for you in the pithy guide to common ways your brain is tricking you. From the Dunning-Kruger Effect to the Straw Man Delusion, McRay patiently guides the reader through modern psychological research. The tone is fairly light, and the real world examples are plentiful. This book is broken down into 48 short sections ideal for quick dipping into for discussion around the dinner table.
American Trailblazers: 50 Remarkable People Who Shaped U.S. History, by Lisa Trusiani, $1.99. Yesterday was full of history deals, but they were all for older readers, so I was glad to find something for my younger historians today. American Trailblazers profiles men and women from many fields who have accomplished impressive things. I was pleased to see racial and gender diversity in the performers, scientists, writers, and other careers mentioned. Cute illustrations make this book inviting, and the lists of related people to investigate will let kids dig deep into their interests.
How to Knit: Learn the Basic Stitches and Techniques, by Lesley Ann Bestor, $2.99. There is finally, FINALLY, a chill in the air, and that means it is time to start planning cozy inside activities for the winter months. Maybe this is the year your family dabbles with fiber arts. How to Knit is a cheerful, basic guide to all you’ll need to make your first knitting projects. If you want something more substantial, The Knowledgeable Knitter leaves no stitch unturned. Not sure knitting is for you? How to Crochet is also on sale!
Sisters in Law: How Sandra Day O’Connor and Ruth Bader Ginsburg Went to the Supreme Court and Changed the World, by Linda R. Hirshman, $2.99. At first glance, Ginsburg and O’Connor would seem to have little in common. Their backgrounds are different in virtually every particular. It was their career path, and the inherent struggles in trailblazing a path for women in the law, that brought them together and helped them to develop a warm working relationship and friendship. Sisters in Law is a biography of these two remarkable women and their work to improve women’s lives in America.
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.
In a Dark, Dark Room and Other Scary Stories, by Alvin Schwartz, $1.99. Some kids just LOVE to be creeped out, and it’s never too early to get a delightfully spooky book into their hands. This is a collection of scary stories for beginning readers. Turn down the lights and let your child give a haunted story hour. The vibrant and twisted illustrations add to the fun.
Dear Martin, by Nic Stone, $1.99. From our 2017 Fall Book Guide: Teenage Justyce starts a journal writing to Martin Luther King, Jr., after a false arrest has him questioning racism and resistance in his world. When his worst fears are realized in a police shooting, Justyce has to confront the darkest parts of himself and the world he lives in.
Letters of Note, Volume 1, by Shaun Usher, $3.99. Letters can be surprising, meaningful, and just plain odd. Shaun Usher has collected more than 100 interesting letters to share in this volume. You can read a letter from Elvis to President Nixon which Elvis offers to become a Federal Agent. The letters cover a wide time period and topics from politics to art to food. Each letter includes a big of background information, and many include a photo of the letter itself. This is a fun book to dip into over and over again.
Coraline: The Graphic Novel, by Neil Gaiman and P. Craig Russell, $1.99. Coraline is a classic creepy tale about a girl who discovers an alternate version of her reality when she moves to a new house. At first the new house and new family seems like all Coraline has ever wanted, but things are not as they seem. I will never look at a Lalaloopsy doll in the same way having read this book. The realistic drawings increase the creep factor, making it more unsettling than the movie adaptation.
Beatrix Potter’s Gardening Life, by Marta McDowell, $1.99. Beatrix Potter’s stories of sentient animals getting up to mischief have charmed children and parents for generations. Her beautiful watercolor illustrations really bring her characters to life. In this book, McDowell describes the events that shaped Potter’s love of the outdoors, then takes readers on a guided tour of the outdoor settings that are so crucial to Potter’s work. Gorgeous watercolors and photos enhance the reading experience.
Life in a Medieval Castle, by Frances and Joseph Gies, $1.99. Interest in the medieval period had a resurgence in popularity with the rise of Game of Thrones. But you don’t need to be a die-hard dragon fan to appreciate this comprehensive guide to medieval life. The Gieses cover everything from food to heating to knights’ training. The comprehensive index makes it easy to dip in for just the information you need, or you can curl up and dive deep into a world long past.
The Sky Below, by Scott Parazynski and Susy Flory, $0.99. Scott Parazynski’s memoir of the adventures and training that led him to become an astronaut is fascinating. What makes this book thrilling, though, is the Kindle in Motion feature. When you read this book on a Kindle Fire or the Kindle app on another tablet, you will marvel at the embedded video. The pages come to live with views of rockets launching, the earth from space, and more. This is a must have for anyone interested in space flight.
How to Draw Cool Things, by Rachel Goldstein, $2.99. When I was in school, every class had at least one kid who knew how to make cool lettering or designs in the margins of the paper. I felt like it was some kind of magical power. Now your kids can be in on the secrets with this fun guide to drawing optical illusions, 3D doodles, and more. Twelve-year-old me is so jealous.
The Dark Descent of Elizabeth Frankenstein, by Kiersten White, $1.99. Continuing our creepy theme for the day, we have this exciting and unsettling YA retelling of Frankenstein. Elizabeth is a neglected child who is brought into the Frankenstein family as a companion for the troubled Victor. She lives with the Frankensteins for years, her one task being to control Victor’s temper and dark impulses. But what must she do to keep him happy? Teens and adults with enjoy this “exquisitely disturbing” novel. The bonus copy of Mary Shelley’s original novel included in the ebook will make for an excellent comparative literature lesson.
Stopping for a Spell, by Diana Wynne Jones, $2.99. You may know Diana Wynne Jones from her excellent Howl’s Moving Castle and Chrestomanci series. She is a master of immersive fantasy for young readers. Stopping for a Spell is a collection of three shorter stories designed for slightly younger readers. Set in a mostly familiar 20th century England with only a few magical differences, these tales will delight middle grade readers. Furniture comes to life, mysterious grannies come to stay, and more. Charming and detailed illustrations round out an enjoyable reading experience that will be a great introduction to the author’s work for new readers.
Why Do Clocks Run Clockwise?, by David Feldman, $2.99. Do you have that kid who always wants to know the answers to weird questions? Are you the grown-up version of that kid? David Feldman’s Imponderables series is just the thing for you. He answers such questions as “why do dogs circle before lying down?” and “why is a telephone keypad arranged differently from a calculator?” Feldman tracks down experts to get to the bottom of many strange questions. The short sections make this book appealing to casual readers who might not pick up a novel.
The Tale of Despereaux, by Kate DiCamillo, $4.08. This thrilling tale of adventure tells the story of Despereaux, a brave young mouse who takes on an extraordinary quest This moving story will delight readers young and old, though it is somewhat darker than you might expect from the cover art. Beautiful illustrations set the tone.
Kindle Deals for October 25, 2019
Citizenship, sci fi, and a look at all the ingredients in processed food in today’s Kindle deals.
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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What Can a Citizen Do?, by Dave Eggers and Shawn Harris, $1.99. This beautifully illustrated children’s book is an introduction to what citizenship means today. The words are a call to action (“A citizen should be engaged. A citizen should care and care.”) and the cut paper illustrations are wonderfully diverse.
The Final Six, by Alexandra Monir, $1.99. This exciting YA novel reads somewhat like The Martian, but with teens in the main roles. From the publisher: When Leo and Naomi are drafted, along with twenty-two of the world’s brightest teenagers, into the International Space Training Camp, their lives are forever changed. Overnight, they become global celebrities in contention for one of the six slots to travel to Europa—Jupiter’s moon—and establish a new colony, leaving their planet forever. With Earth irreparably damaged, the future of the human race rests on their shoulders. For Leo, an Italian championship swimmer, this kind of purpose is a reason to go on after losing his family. But Naomi, an Iranian-American science genius, is suspicious of the ISTC and the fact that a similar mission failed under mysterious circumstances, killing the astronauts onboard. She fears something equally sinister awaiting the Final Six beneath Europa’s surface.
Ingredients: A Visual Exploration of 75 Additives and 25 Food Products, by Dwight Eschliman and Steve Ettinger, $0.99. What is really in the food we eat? What is caramel color, anyway? What does xanthan gum actually do, and where does it come from? This fascinating collaboration between a photographer and a science writer will answer all of these questions and more. They break down all the ingredients in more than two dozen common foods to explain how all the pieces fit together. You may never look at Cool Ranch Doritos the same way, but you’ll enjoy learning about the process!
STILL ON SALE
Children of Blood and Bone, by Tomi Adeyemi, $2.99. From our 2018 winter reading list: “This YA book is a fantastic fantasy about two girls who want to bring magic back to their land and a crown prince who would do anything to stop them, but it’s also about racism, prejudice, and xenophobia. This is probably the book everyone will be talking about.”
Unfamiliar Fishes, by Sarah Vowell, $4.99. I’ve loved Sarah Vowell since I first heard her contributions to This American Life. Her quirky history books cover unusual topics in her signature quippy style. This book takes on the Americanization of Hawaii, from the first settlers to the annexation. It’s a story of imperialism, native culture, and more.
What She Ate: Six Remarkable Women and the Food that Tells Their Stories, by Laura Shapiro, $4.99. This is biography told in a very different way; it absolutely fascinates me. From the publisher: What She Ate is a lively and unpredictable array of women; what they have in common with one another (and us) is a powerful relationship with food. They include Dorothy Wordsworth, whose food story transforms our picture of the life she shared with her famous poet brother; Rosa Lewis, the Edwardian-era Cockney caterer who cooked her way up the social ladder; Eleanor Roosevelt, First Lady and rigorous protector of the worst cook in White House history; Eva Braun, Hitler’s mistress, who challenges our warm associations of food, family, and table; Barbara Pym, whose witty books upend a host of stereotypes about postwar British cuisine; and Helen Gurley Brown, the editor of Cosmopolitan, whose commitment to “having it all” meant having almost nothing on the plate except a supersized portion of diet gelatin.
Monsters You Should Know, by Emma Sancartier, $1.99. This is the cutest book about horrifying monsters that you will ever see. Truly creepy monsters from folklore around the world are illustrated in a scary but still somehow charming style. This is a picture book, but probably best for ages 8+. You could shape an interesting unit study around researching these monsters.
Bliss, by Kathryn Littlewood, $3.99. The Bliss family runs a popular bakery with a secret: many of the recipes come from the family’s magic “Cookery Booke,” an ancient and powerful resource. Rosemary Bliss is looking after her siblings while her parents go out of town, leaving strict instructions not to open the book without supervision. When mysterious Aunt Lily shows up unexpectedly, the kids don’t think it would be too problematic to make some recipes from the book for her. What could possibly go wrong? This middle grade book is warm, funny, and packed with delicious details.
Guitar Zero, by Gary Marcus, $4.99. You’re never too old, or too young, to learn music. Gary Marcus was nearly 40 when he decided he wanted to learn the guitar despite having little musical experience or skill. Marcus is a scientist, and he describes both his personal musical journey and the science behind how the brain integrates new skills.
The Bone Houses, by Emily Lloyd-Jones, $2.99. I have heard so much about this book. It is a creepy delight of a YA novel. Ryn and her family tend the graveyard in the small town of Colbren. The problem is, the bodies don’t always stay dead. Sometimes the dead “bone houses” come back to life. When the risings start to increase, Ryn and apprentice mapmaker Ellis must journey to discover the secret of the curse that is tormenting the town. This is a brand new novel that is getting a lot of buzz.
The Read-Aloud Handbook, by Jim Trelease, $4.99. Every household should have a copy of this book, a guide to awesome books to read with children. The first half of the book explain why you should read aloud to the children in your life. There are sections on problem solving for reluctant readers or listeners, as well as a section specifically on getting dads involved in the reading process. The second half of the book is a giant compendium of read-aloud books. Each book listed has a short summary, suggested age group, notes about any sensitive topics, and a list of related books. This edition was released in 2013; an updated version was just published, but it is not on sale.
Northanger Abbey, by Val McDermid, $1.99. A few years ago, a group of acclaimed authors decided to write new interpretations of each of Jane Austen’s novels. Val McDermid, author of many bestselling mysteries, decided to take on Austen’s creepiest novel, Northanger Abbey. In this modern retelling, homeschooled bookworm Cat Morland is invited by the Allen family to attend the Edinburgh Fringe Festival with them. In Edinburgh, she meets the Thorpe family, as well as handsome lawyer Henry Tilney. But is everything really as it seems? This version of Northanger Abbey will thrill and chill Austen fans and neophytes alike.
Ivy and Bean Books 1-3, by Annie Barrows, $1.99. These sweet and funny stories are perfect for your new reader. My daughter has moved far beyond this series, but still often picks up one of these books to reread in a single sitting. From my junior reviewer: “I really love these books because the characters are believably drawn with just the right amount of humor. They tie in hilarious and unusual circumstances, including magic sometimes, with things I have experienced. They have a very specific sense of humor, which I share, and I can relate to almost all of the characters.”
Brief Answers to the Big Questions, by Stephen Hawking, $2.99. Famed cosmologist Stephen Hawking has written many books, but this one is a little different. At the end of his life, he set out to answer some important questions. Is there other intelligent life in the universe? Is time travel possible? How do we shape the future? Hawking offers his own opinions on these and more. (Note: There is some discussion of religion and atheism.)
The House in Poplar Wood, by K.E. Ormsbee, $1.99. When I saw this book described as “Haunted Mansion meets Stranger Things,” I was totally hooked. The publisher has written a better summary than I possibly could: “For as long as the Vickery twins can remember, Lee and his mother have served Memory, while Felix and his father assist Death. This is the Agreement. But one Halloween, Gretchen Whipple smashes her way into their lives. Her bargain is simple: If the twins help her solve the murder of local girl Essie Hasting, she'll help them break the Agreement. The more the three investigate, however, the more they realize that something's gone terribly wrong in their town. Death is on the loose, and if history repeats itself, Essie's might not be the last murder in Poplar Wood. Simultaneously heartwarming and delightfully spooky, The House in Poplar Wood is a story about a boy's desire to be free, a girl's desire to make a difference, and a family's desire to be together again.”
Emily’s Runaway Imagination, by Beverly Cleary, $4.99. This is a charming but lesser-known middle grade book from beloved children’s author Beverly Cleary. Emily reminds me of Pippi Longstocking without the clearly impossible situations. From the publisher: “Spunky Emily Bartlett lives in an old farmhouse in Pitchfork, Oregon'at a time when automobiles are brand-new inventions and libraries are a luxury few small towns can afford. Her runaway imagination leads her to bleach a horse, hold a very scary sleepover, and feed the hogs an unusual treat. But can she use her lively mind to help bring a library to Pitchfork?”
Tangled in Time: The Portal, by Kathryn Lasky, $1.99. This charming middle grade novel is a time travel story. Rose finds a time portal in her grandmother’s greenhouse that transports her to the the court of Henry VIII. She befriends the young Princess Elizabeth and discovers a mysterious locket that may hold a secret connecting Rose to the Tudor world.
The Omnivore’s Dilemma, by Michael Pollan, $1.99. The concept of this book is simple — Michael Pollan takes four meals and traces each ingredient back to it’s agricultural origins. Along the way, he discovers much about the business and culture of our modern food landscape. From McDonald’s to Whole Foods and several stops in between, Pollan considers the health and environmental implications of our food choices. There’s also a young reader’s edition if you’d like to include kids in the dinner table discussions.
Dear Data, by Giogia Lupi and Stefanie Posavec, $2.99. This book has a fascinating concept: two friends in different countries sent each other a postcard every week for a year. Every week had a theme, and the two friends recorded data about their lives and created a way to represent it visually. The result is more than 100 postcards illustrating the details of their lives. You’ll find this a great discussion starter about ways to visually represent ideas.
Talking Across the Divide: How to Communicate with People You Disagree with and Maybe Even Change the World, by Justin Lee, $4.99. I run a large homeschool co-op, which puts me in the position to get to know a wide variety of people. Books like Talking Across the Divide in invaluable in the current political climate for helping people find ways to connect.
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 Hero’s Guide to Saving Your Kingdom, by Christopher Healy, $1.99. You think you know the classic fairytale stories, but they are usually centered around the princesses. This fun middle grade series focuses on the princes. After the “happily ever after” the princes discover that their kingdoms are in danger, and they set off take on all kinds of mythical monsters. This fun and funny book is the first in a series that your middle-grade reader will love.
The Mind’s Eye, by Oliver Sacks, $4.99. What would your life be like if you lost a fundamental part of your sensory experience? Neuroscientist Oliver Sacks explores what makes us who we are in this collection of profiles. From the concert pianist who loses the ability to read music to the woman who finds herself unable to speak, Sacks deftly recreates the breadth of human experience.
Cut in Half: The Hidden World of Everyday Objects, by Mike 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.)
Art Before Breakfast: A Zillion Ways to be More Creative No Matter How Busy You Are, by Danny Gregory, $2.99. My daughter loves doing art, and fills lots of her spare time making things. I’ve never considered myself an artist and struggle to find time to develop my skills. This book is a great place to start. Danny Gregory has created short, fun activities that take 10 minutes or less. They will encourage you to make art a regular part of your life. This book is a great way to add some art education to your homeschool, or to carve out a bit of time for your own creativity.
Forensics: What Bugs, Burns, Prints, DNA, and More Tell Us About Crime, by Val McDermid, $1.99. Val McDermid is fascinated by forensics in a way only a mystery writer can be. She has a keen eye for detail, and she can make dry facts seem riveting. You’ll come away from this book much more knowledgeable about the facts of crime investigation (as opposed to some of the technological magic of CSI).
50 Inventions That Shaped the Modern Economy, by Tim Harford, $4.99. I love this kind of book, a history through specific objects. Here’s how the publisher describes it: “Fifty Inventions That Shaped the Modern Economy paints an epic picture of change in an intimate way by telling the stories of the tools, people, and ideas that had far-reaching consequences for all of us. From the plough to artificial intelligence, from Gillette’s disposable razor to IKEA’s Billy bookcase, bestselling author and Financial Times columnist Tim Harford recounts each invention’s own curious, surprising, and memorable story.”
The Physics of Superheroes: Spectacular Second Edition, by James Kakalios, $4.99. Why did Krypton explode? How does Spiderman’s webbing actually work? How do you make a lightweight, bulletproof costume? Kakalios, a physics and astronomy professor, knows his stuff and can explain it with humor and detail. This second edition has three new chapters, so it might be worth a buy even if you’ve already read the first edition.
The Wizards of Once, by Cressida Cowell, $1.99. My family loved the How to Train Your Dragon series, and we are excited to begin another series by Cressida Cowell. Here’s what the publisher says: Once there were Wizards, who were Magic, and Warriors, who were not. But Xar, son of the King of Wizards, can't cast a single spell. And Wish, daughter of the Warrior Queen, has a banned magical object of her own. When they collide in the wildwood, on the trail of a deadly witch, it's the start of a grand adventure that just might change the fabric of their worlds.
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.)
Hamstersaurus Rex, by Tom O’Donnell, $1.99. Is this another creepy book for Halloween? Yes and no. This wild middle school story will entertain and delight while still addressing some tougher emotional issues. From the publisher: “When a mysterious growling hamster appears at the back of his class, Sam knows just what to call him: Hamstersaurus Rex. Sam tries to protect Hammie from an overzealous Hamster Monitor, and from the meanest bully in the history of Horace Hotwater Middle School. The bully isn’t afraid of some weird little class pet. But maybe he should be. Hamstersaurus Rex is no ordinary hamster.”
Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking, by Susan Cain, $2.99. Introverts may be overrepresented in the homeschool world. I was just having a discussion with my daughter about how many social norms are set up by and for extroverted people. This insightful book is a celebration of introverts, an analysis of their role in society, and a guide for ways that introverts can find success. This is an excellent book, whether you are an introvert or want to understand an introvert. There’s also a children’s version that I am looking forward to sharing with my family.
Making the Monster: The Science Behind Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, by Katheryn Harkup, $1.99. Another Halloween-related book for October! From the publisher: Making the Monster explores the scientific background behind Mary Shelley's book. Is there any science fact behind the science fiction? And how might a real-life Victor Frankenstein have gone about creating his monster? From tales of volcanic eruptions, artificial life and chemical revolutions, to experimental surgery, 'monsters' and electrical experiments on human cadavers, Kathryn Harkup examines the science and scientists that influenced Shelley, and inspired her most famous creation.”
Corsets & Codpieces, by Karen Bowman, $1.99. How did 18th century women get their skirts to stick out to far? Why did medieval men accentuate their figure with over the top codpieces? This book explores the history of outrageous fashion. (Note: As you might expect from the title, sex comes up fairly often. This might be a good choice for teens and adults.)
Penny and Her Song, by Kevin Henkes, $4.99. Your beginning reader will love this series about Penny, an adorable and charming young mouse. Penny comes home with a new song that she is so eager to sing! However, her parents beg her to keep quiet while her twin siblings are sleeping. Will Penny ever be able to share her music? This is an excellent book for early readers ready to venture into short chapter books. It was one of my daughter’s favorite’s when she began reading on her own.
You Are Not So Smart, by David McRay, $1.99. We all like to believe that we know why we do the things we do, but what is the reality? David McRay breaks it down for you in the pithy guide to common ways your brain is tricking you. From the Dunning-Kruger Effect to the Straw Man Delusion, McRay patiently guides the reader through modern psychological research. The tone is fairly light, and the real world examples are plentiful. This book is broken down into 48 short sections ideal for quick dipping into for discussion around the dinner table.
American Trailblazers: 50 Remarkable People Who Shaped U.S. History, by Lisa Trusiani, $1.99. Yesterday was full of history deals, but they were all for older readers, so I was glad to find something for my younger historians today. American Trailblazers profiles men and women from many fields who have accomplished impressive things. I was pleased to see racial and gender diversity in the performers, scientists, writers, and other careers mentioned. Cute illustrations make this book inviting, and the lists of related people to investigate will let kids dig deep into their interests.
How to Knit: Learn the Basic Stitches and Techniques, by Lesley Ann Bestor, $2.99. There is finally, FINALLY, a chill in the air, and that means it is time to start planning cozy inside activities for the winter months. Maybe this is the year your family dabbles with fiber arts. How to Knit is a cheerful, basic guide to all you’ll need to make your first knitting projects. If you want something more substantial, The Knowledgeable Knitter leaves no stitch unturned. Not sure knitting is for you? How to Crochet is also on sale!
Sisters in Law: How Sandra Day O’Connor and Ruth Bader Ginsburg Went to the Supreme Court and Changed the World, by Linda R. Hirshman, $2.99. At first glance, Ginsburg and O’Connor would seem to have little in common. Their backgrounds are different in virtually every particular. It was their career path, and the inherent struggles in trailblazing a path for women in the law, that brought them together and helped them to develop a warm working relationship and friendship. Sisters in Law is a biography of these two remarkable women and their work to improve women’s lives in America.
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.
In a Dark, Dark Room and Other Scary Stories, by Alvin Schwartz, $1.99. Some kids just LOVE to be creeped out, and it’s never too early to get a delightfully spooky book into their hands. This is a collection of scary stories for beginning readers. Turn down the lights and let your child give a haunted story hour. The vibrant and twisted illustrations add to the fun.
Dear Martin, by Nic Stone, $1.99. From our 2017 Fall Book Guide: Teenage Justyce starts a journal writing to Martin Luther King, Jr., after a false arrest has him questioning racism and resistance in his world. When his worst fears are realized in a police shooting, Justyce has to confront the darkest parts of himself and the world he lives in.
Letters of Note, Volume 1, by Shaun Usher, $3.99. Letters can be surprising, meaningful, and just plain odd. Shaun Usher has collected more than 100 interesting letters to share in this volume. You can read a letter from Elvis to President Nixon which Elvis offers to become a Federal Agent. The letters cover a wide time period and topics from politics to art to food. Each letter includes a big of background information, and many include a photo of the letter itself. This is a fun book to dip into over and over again.
Coraline: The Graphic Novel, by Neil Gaiman and P. Craig Russell, $1.99. Coraline is a classic creepy tale about a girl who discovers an alternate version of her reality when she moves to a new house. At first the new house and new family seems like all Coraline has ever wanted, but things are not as they seem. I will never look at a Lalaloopsy doll in the same way having read this book. The realistic drawings increase the creep factor, making it more unsettling than the movie adaptation.
Beatrix Potter’s Gardening Life, by Marta McDowell, $1.99. Beatrix Potter’s stories of sentient animals getting up to mischief have charmed children and parents for generations. Her beautiful watercolor illustrations really bring her characters to life. In this book, McDowell describes the events that shaped Potter’s love of the outdoors, then takes readers on a guided tour of the outdoor settings that are so crucial to Potter’s work. Gorgeous watercolors and photos enhance the reading experience.
Life in a Medieval Castle, by Frances and Joseph Gies, $1.99. Interest in the medieval period had a resurgence in popularity with the rise of Game of Thrones. But you don’t need to be a die-hard dragon fan to appreciate this comprehensive guide to medieval life. The Gieses cover everything from food to heating to knights’ training. The comprehensive index makes it easy to dip in for just the information you need, or you can curl up and dive deep into a world long past.
The Sky Below, by Scott Parazynski and Susy Flory, $0.99. Scott Parazynski’s memoir of the adventures and training that led him to become an astronaut is fascinating. What makes this book thrilling, though, is the Kindle in Motion feature. When you read this book on a Kindle Fire or the Kindle app on another tablet, you will marvel at the embedded video. The pages come to live with views of rockets launching, the earth from space, and more. This is a must have for anyone interested in space flight.
How to Draw Cool Things, by Rachel Goldstein, $2.99. When I was in school, every class had at least one kid who knew how to make cool lettering or designs in the margins of the paper. I felt like it was some kind of magical power. Now your kids can be in on the secrets with this fun guide to drawing optical illusions, 3D doodles, and more. Twelve-year-old me is so jealous.
The Dark Descent of Elizabeth Frankenstein, by Kiersten White, $1.99. Continuing our creepy theme for the day, we have this exciting and unsettling YA retelling of Frankenstein. Elizabeth is a neglected child who is brought into the Frankenstein family as a companion for the troubled Victor. She lives with the Frankensteins for years, her one task being to control Victor’s temper and dark impulses. But what must she do to keep him happy? Teens and adults with enjoy this “exquisitely disturbing” novel. The bonus copy of Mary Shelley’s original novel included in the ebook will make for an excellent comparative literature lesson.
Stopping for a Spell, by Diana Wynne Jones, $2.99. You may know Diana Wynne Jones from her excellent Howl’s Moving Castle and Chrestomanci series. She is a master of immersive fantasy for young readers. Stopping for a Spell is a collection of three shorter stories designed for slightly younger readers. Set in a mostly familiar 20th century England with only a few magical differences, these tales will delight middle grade readers. Furniture comes to life, mysterious grannies come to stay, and more. Charming and detailed illustrations round out an enjoyable reading experience that will be a great introduction to the author’s work for new readers.
Why Do Clocks Run Clockwise?, by David Feldman, $2.99. Do you have that kid who always wants to know the answers to weird questions? Are you the grown-up version of that kid? David Feldman’s Imponderables series is just the thing for you. He answers such questions as “why do dogs circle before lying down?” and “why is a telephone keypad arranged differently from a calculator?” Feldman tracks down experts to get to the bottom of many strange questions. The short sections make this book appealing to casual readers who might not pick up a novel.
The Tale of Despereaux, by Kate DiCamillo, $4.08. This thrilling tale of adventure tells the story of Despereaux, a brave young mouse who takes on an extraordinary quest This moving story will delight readers young and old, though it is somewhat darker than you might expect from the cover art. Beautiful illustrations set the tone.
Kindle Deals for October 24, 2019
Award-winning sci fi and two unusual histories in today’s Kindle deals.
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.)
BIG NEWS! We now have an email list to send you a reminder each time we post new deals to the website. If you’d like to make sure you never miss a deal, sign up here.
Children of Blood and Bone, by Tomi Adeyemi, $2.99. From our 2018 winter reading list: “This YA book is a fantastic fantasy about two girls who want to bring magic back to their land and a crown prince who would do anything to stop them, but it’s also about racism, prejudice, and xenophobia. This is probably the book everyone will be talking about.”
Unfamiliar Fishes, by Sarah Vowell, $4.99. I’ve loved Sarah Vowell since I first heard her contributions to This American Life. Her quirky history books cover unusual topics in her signature quippy style. This book takes on the Americanization of Hawaii, from the first settlers to the annexation. It’s a story of imperialism, native culture, and more.
What She Ate: Six Remarkable Women and the Food that Tells Their Stories, by Laura Shapiro, $4.99. This is biography told in a very different way; it absolutely fascinates me. From the publisher: What She Ate is a lively and unpredictable array of women; what they have in common with one another (and us) is a powerful relationship with food. They include Dorothy Wordsworth, whose food story transforms our picture of the life she shared with her famous poet brother; Rosa Lewis, the Edwardian-era Cockney caterer who cooked her way up the social ladder; Eleanor Roosevelt, First Lady and rigorous protector of the worst cook in White House history; Eva Braun, Hitler’s mistress, who challenges our warm associations of food, family, and table; Barbara Pym, whose witty books upend a host of stereotypes about postwar British cuisine; and Helen Gurley Brown, the editor of Cosmopolitan, whose commitment to “having it all” meant having almost nothing on the plate except a supersized portion of diet gelatin.
STILL ON SALE
Monsters You Should Know, by Emma Sancartier, $1.99. This is the cutest book about horrifying monsters that you will ever see. Truly creepy monsters from folklore around the world are illustrated in a scary but still somehow charming style. This is a picture book, but probably best for ages 8+. You could shape an interesting unit study around researching these monsters.
Bliss, by Kathryn Littlewood, $3.99. The Bliss family runs a popular bakery with a secret: many of the recipes come from the family’s magic “Cookery Booke,” an ancient and powerful resource. Rosemary Bliss is looking after her siblings while her parents go out of town, leaving strict instructions not to open the book without supervision. When mysterious Aunt Lily shows up unexpectedly, the kids don’t think it would be too problematic to make some recipes from the book for her. What could possibly go wrong? This middle grade book is warm, funny, and packed with delicious details.
Guitar Zero, by Gary Marcus, $4.99. You’re never too old, or too young, to learn music. Gary Marcus was nearly 40 when he decided he wanted to learn the guitar despite having little musical experience or skill. Marcus is a scientist, and he describes both his personal musical journey and the science behind how the brain integrates new skills.
The Bone Houses, by Emily Lloyd-Jones, $2.99. I have heard so much about this book. It is a creepy delight of a YA novel. Ryn and her family tend the graveyard in the small town of Colbren. The problem is, the bodies don’t always stay dead. Sometimes the dead “bone houses” come back to life. When the risings start to increase, Ryn and apprentice mapmaker Ellis must journey to discover the secret of the curse that is tormenting the town. This is a brand new novel that is getting a lot of buzz.
The Read-Aloud Handbook, by Jim Trelease, $4.99. Every household should have a copy of this book, a guide to awesome books to read with children. The first half of the book explain why you should read aloud to the children in your life. There are sections on problem solving for reluctant readers or listeners, as well as a section specifically on getting dads involved in the reading process. The second half of the book is a giant compendium of read-aloud books. Each book listed has a short summary, suggested age group, notes about any sensitive topics, and a list of related books. This edition was released in 2013; an updated version was just published, but it is not on sale.
Northanger Abbey, by Val McDermid, $1.99. A few years ago, a group of acclaimed authors decided to write new interpretations of each of Jane Austen’s novels. Val McDermid, author of many bestselling mysteries, decided to take on Austen’s creepiest novel, Northanger Abbey. In this modern retelling, homeschooled bookworm Cat Morland is invited by the Allen family to attend the Edinburgh Fringe Festival with them. In Edinburgh, she meets the Thorpe family, as well as handsome lawyer Henry Tilney. But is everything really as it seems? This version of Northanger Abbey will thrill and chill Austen fans and neophytes alike.
Ivy and Bean Books 1-3, by Annie Barrows, $1.99. These sweet and funny stories are perfect for your new reader. My daughter has moved far beyond this series, but still often picks up one of these books to reread in a single sitting. From my junior reviewer: “I really love these books because the characters are believably drawn with just the right amount of humor. They tie in hilarious and unusual circumstances, including magic sometimes, with things I have experienced. They have a very specific sense of humor, which I share, and I can relate to almost all of the characters.”
Brief Answers to the Big Questions, by Stephen Hawking, $2.99. Famed cosmologist Stephen Hawking has written many books, but this one is a little different. At the end of his life, he set out to answer some important questions. Is there other intelligent life in the universe? Is time travel possible? How do we shape the future? Hawking offers his own opinions on these and more. (Note: There is some discussion of religion and atheism.)
The House in Poplar Wood, by K.E. Ormsbee, $1.99. When I saw this book described as “Haunted Mansion meets Stranger Things,” I was totally hooked. The publisher has written a better summary than I possibly could: “For as long as the Vickery twins can remember, Lee and his mother have served Memory, while Felix and his father assist Death. This is the Agreement. But one Halloween, Gretchen Whipple smashes her way into their lives. Her bargain is simple: If the twins help her solve the murder of local girl Essie Hasting, she'll help them break the Agreement. The more the three investigate, however, the more they realize that something's gone terribly wrong in their town. Death is on the loose, and if history repeats itself, Essie's might not be the last murder in Poplar Wood. Simultaneously heartwarming and delightfully spooky, The House in Poplar Wood is a story about a boy's desire to be free, a girl's desire to make a difference, and a family's desire to be together again.”
Emily’s Runaway Imagination, by Beverly Cleary, $4.99. This is a charming but lesser-known middle grade book from beloved children’s author Beverly Cleary. Emily reminds me of Pippi Longstocking without the clearly impossible situations. From the publisher: “Spunky Emily Bartlett lives in an old farmhouse in Pitchfork, Oregon'at a time when automobiles are brand-new inventions and libraries are a luxury few small towns can afford. Her runaway imagination leads her to bleach a horse, hold a very scary sleepover, and feed the hogs an unusual treat. But can she use her lively mind to help bring a library to Pitchfork?”
Tangled in Time: The Portal, by Kathryn Lasky, $1.99. This charming middle grade novel is a time travel story. Rose finds a time portal in her grandmother’s greenhouse that transports her to the the court of Henry VIII. She befriends the young Princess Elizabeth and discovers a mysterious locket that may hold a secret connecting Rose to the Tudor world.
The Omnivore’s Dilemma, by Michael Pollan, $1.99. The concept of this book is simple — Michael Pollan takes four meals and traces each ingredient back to it’s agricultural origins. Along the way, he discovers much about the business and culture of our modern food landscape. From McDonald’s to Whole Foods and several stops in between, Pollan considers the health and environmental implications of our food choices. There’s also a young reader’s edition if you’d like to include kids in the dinner table discussions.
Dear Data, by Giogia Lupi and Stefanie Posavec, $2.99. This book has a fascinating concept: two friends in different countries sent each other a postcard every week for a year. Every week had a theme, and the two friends recorded data about their lives and created a way to represent it visually. The result is more than 100 postcards illustrating the details of their lives. You’ll find this a great discussion starter about ways to visually represent ideas.
Talking Across the Divide: How to Communicate with People You Disagree with and Maybe Even Change the World, by Justin Lee, $4.99. I run a large homeschool co-op, which puts me in the position to get to know a wide variety of people. Books like Talking Across the Divide in invaluable in the current political climate for helping people find ways to connect.
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 Hero’s Guide to Saving Your Kingdom, by Christopher Healy, $1.99. You think you know the classic fairytale stories, but they are usually centered around the princesses. This fun middle grade series focuses on the princes. After the “happily ever after” the princes discover that their kingdoms are in danger, and they set off take on all kinds of mythical monsters. This fun and funny book is the first in a series that your middle-grade reader will love.
The Mind’s Eye, by Oliver Sacks, $4.99. What would your life be like if you lost a fundamental part of your sensory experience? Neuroscientist Oliver Sacks explores what makes us who we are in this collection of profiles. From the concert pianist who loses the ability to read music to the woman who finds herself unable to speak, Sacks deftly recreates the breadth of human experience.
Cut in Half: The Hidden World of Everyday Objects, by Mike 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.)
Art Before Breakfast: A Zillion Ways to be More Creative No Matter How Busy You Are, by Danny Gregory, $2.99. My daughter loves doing art, and fills lots of her spare time making things. I’ve never considered myself an artist and struggle to find time to develop my skills. This book is a great place to start. Danny Gregory has created short, fun activities that take 10 minutes or less. They will encourage you to make art a regular part of your life. This book is a great way to add some art education to your homeschool, or to carve out a bit of time for your own creativity.
Forensics: What Bugs, Burns, Prints, DNA, and More Tell Us About Crime, by Val McDermid, $1.99. Val McDermid is fascinated by forensics in a way only a mystery writer can be. She has a keen eye for detail, and she can make dry facts seem riveting. You’ll come away from this book much more knowledgeable about the facts of crime investigation (as opposed to some of the technological magic of CSI).
50 Inventions That Shaped the Modern Economy, by Tim Harford, $4.99. I love this kind of book, a history through specific objects. Here’s how the publisher describes it: “Fifty Inventions That Shaped the Modern Economy paints an epic picture of change in an intimate way by telling the stories of the tools, people, and ideas that had far-reaching consequences for all of us. From the plough to artificial intelligence, from Gillette’s disposable razor to IKEA’s Billy bookcase, bestselling author and Financial Times columnist Tim Harford recounts each invention’s own curious, surprising, and memorable story.”
The Physics of Superheroes: Spectacular Second Edition, by James Kakalios, $4.99. Why did Krypton explode? How does Spiderman’s webbing actually work? How do you make a lightweight, bulletproof costume? Kakalios, a physics and astronomy professor, knows his stuff and can explain it with humor and detail. This second edition has three new chapters, so it might be worth a buy even if you’ve already read the first edition.
The Wizards of Once, by Cressida Cowell, $1.99. My family loved the How to Train Your Dragon series, and we are excited to begin another series by Cressida Cowell. Here’s what the publisher says: Once there were Wizards, who were Magic, and Warriors, who were not. But Xar, son of the King of Wizards, can't cast a single spell. And Wish, daughter of the Warrior Queen, has a banned magical object of her own. When they collide in the wildwood, on the trail of a deadly witch, it's the start of a grand adventure that just might change the fabric of their worlds.
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.)
Hamstersaurus Rex, by Tom O’Donnell, $1.99. Is this another creepy book for Halloween? Yes and no. This wild middle school story will entertain and delight while still addressing some tougher emotional issues. From the publisher: “When a mysterious growling hamster appears at the back of his class, Sam knows just what to call him: Hamstersaurus Rex. Sam tries to protect Hammie from an overzealous Hamster Monitor, and from the meanest bully in the history of Horace Hotwater Middle School. The bully isn’t afraid of some weird little class pet. But maybe he should be. Hamstersaurus Rex is no ordinary hamster.”
Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking, by Susan Cain, $2.99. Introverts may be overrepresented in the homeschool world. I was just having a discussion with my daughter about how many social norms are set up by and for extroverted people. This insightful book is a celebration of introverts, an analysis of their role in society, and a guide for ways that introverts can find success. This is an excellent book, whether you are an introvert or want to understand an introvert. There’s also a children’s version that I am looking forward to sharing with my family.
Making the Monster: The Science Behind Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, by Katheryn Harkup, $1.99. Another Halloween-related book for October! From the publisher: Making the Monster explores the scientific background behind Mary Shelley's book. Is there any science fact behind the science fiction? And how might a real-life Victor Frankenstein have gone about creating his monster? From tales of volcanic eruptions, artificial life and chemical revolutions, to experimental surgery, 'monsters' and electrical experiments on human cadavers, Kathryn Harkup examines the science and scientists that influenced Shelley, and inspired her most famous creation.”
Corsets & Codpieces, by Karen Bowman, $1.99. How did 18th century women get their skirts to stick out to far? Why did medieval men accentuate their figure with over the top codpieces? This book explores the history of outrageous fashion. (Note: As you might expect from the title, sex comes up fairly often. This might be a good choice for teens and adults.)
Penny and Her Song, by Kevin Henkes, $4.99. Your beginning reader will love this series about Penny, an adorable and charming young mouse. Penny comes home with a new song that she is so eager to sing! However, her parents beg her to keep quiet while her twin siblings are sleeping. Will Penny ever be able to share her music? This is an excellent book for early readers ready to venture into short chapter books. It was one of my daughter’s favorite’s when she began reading on her own.
You Are Not So Smart, by David McRay, $1.99. We all like to believe that we know why we do the things we do, but what is the reality? David McRay breaks it down for you in the pithy guide to common ways your brain is tricking you. From the Dunning-Kruger Effect to the Straw Man Delusion, McRay patiently guides the reader through modern psychological research. The tone is fairly light, and the real world examples are plentiful. This book is broken down into 48 short sections ideal for quick dipping into for discussion around the dinner table.
American Trailblazers: 50 Remarkable People Who Shaped U.S. History, by Lisa Trusiani, $1.99. Yesterday was full of history deals, but they were all for older readers, so I was glad to find something for my younger historians today. American Trailblazers profiles men and women from many fields who have accomplished impressive things. I was pleased to see racial and gender diversity in the performers, scientists, writers, and other careers mentioned. Cute illustrations make this book inviting, and the lists of related people to investigate will let kids dig deep into their interests.
How to Knit: Learn the Basic Stitches and Techniques, by Lesley Ann Bestor, $2.99. There is finally, FINALLY, a chill in the air, and that means it is time to start planning cozy inside activities for the winter months. Maybe this is the year your family dabbles with fiber arts. How to Knit is a cheerful, basic guide to all you’ll need to make your first knitting projects. If you want something more substantial, The Knowledgeable Knitter leaves no stitch unturned. Not sure knitting is for you? How to Crochet is also on sale!
Sisters in Law: How Sandra Day O’Connor and Ruth Bader Ginsburg Went to the Supreme Court and Changed the World, by Linda R. Hirshman, $2.99. At first glance, Ginsburg and O’Connor would seem to have little in common. Their backgrounds are different in virtually every particular. It was their career path, and the inherent struggles in trailblazing a path for women in the law, that brought them together and helped them to develop a warm working relationship and friendship. Sisters in Law is a biography of these two remarkable women and their work to improve women’s lives in America.
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.
In a Dark, Dark Room and Other Scary Stories, by Alvin Schwartz, $1.99. Some kids just LOVE to be creeped out, and it’s never too early to get a delightfully spooky book into their hands. This is a collection of scary stories for beginning readers. Turn down the lights and let your child give a haunted story hour. The vibrant and twisted illustrations add to the fun.
Dear Martin, by Nic Stone, $1.99. From our 2017 Fall Book Guide: Teenage Justyce starts a journal writing to Martin Luther King, Jr., after a false arrest has him questioning racism and resistance in his world. When his worst fears are realized in a police shooting, Justyce has to confront the darkest parts of himself and the world he lives in.
Letters of Note, Volume 1, by Shaun Usher, $3.99. Letters can be surprising, meaningful, and just plain odd. Shaun Usher has collected more than 100 interesting letters to share in this volume. You can read a letter from Elvis to President Nixon which Elvis offers to become a Federal Agent. The letters cover a wide time period and topics from politics to art to food. Each letter includes a big of background information, and many include a photo of the letter itself. This is a fun book to dip into over and over again.
Coraline: The Graphic Novel, by Neil Gaiman and P. Craig Russell, $1.99. Coraline is a classic creepy tale about a girl who discovers an alternate version of her reality when she moves to a new house. At first the new house and new family seems like all Coraline has ever wanted, but things are not as they seem. I will never look at a Lalaloopsy doll in the same way having read this book. The realistic drawings increase the creep factor, making it more unsettling than the movie adaptation.
Beatrix Potter’s Gardening Life, by Marta McDowell, $1.99. Beatrix Potter’s stories of sentient animals getting up to mischief have charmed children and parents for generations. Her beautiful watercolor illustrations really bring her characters to life. In this book, McDowell describes the events that shaped Potter’s love of the outdoors, then takes readers on a guided tour of the outdoor settings that are so crucial to Potter’s work. Gorgeous watercolors and photos enhance the reading experience.
Life in a Medieval Castle, by Frances and Joseph Gies, $1.99. Interest in the medieval period had a resurgence in popularity with the rise of Game of Thrones. But you don’t need to be a die-hard dragon fan to appreciate this comprehensive guide to medieval life. The Gieses cover everything from food to heating to knights’ training. The comprehensive index makes it easy to dip in for just the information you need, or you can curl up and dive deep into a world long past.
The Sky Below, by Scott Parazynski and Susy Flory, $0.99. Scott Parazynski’s memoir of the adventures and training that led him to become an astronaut is fascinating. What makes this book thrilling, though, is the Kindle in Motion feature. When you read this book on a Kindle Fire or the Kindle app on another tablet, you will marvel at the embedded video. The pages come to live with views of rockets launching, the earth from space, and more. This is a must have for anyone interested in space flight.
How to Draw Cool Things, by Rachel Goldstein, $2.99. When I was in school, every class had at least one kid who knew how to make cool lettering or designs in the margins of the paper. I felt like it was some kind of magical power. Now your kids can be in on the secrets with this fun guide to drawing optical illusions, 3D doodles, and more. Twelve-year-old me is so jealous.
The Dark Descent of Elizabeth Frankenstein, by Kiersten White, $1.99. Continuing our creepy theme for the day, we have this exciting and unsettling YA retelling of Frankenstein. Elizabeth is a neglected child who is brought into the Frankenstein family as a companion for the troubled Victor. She lives with the Frankensteins for years, her one task being to control Victor’s temper and dark impulses. But what must she do to keep him happy? Teens and adults with enjoy this “exquisitely disturbing” novel. The bonus copy of Mary Shelley’s original novel included in the ebook will make for an excellent comparative literature lesson.
Stopping for a Spell, by Diana Wynne Jones, $2.99. You may know Diana Wynne Jones from her excellent Howl’s Moving Castle and Chrestomanci series. She is a master of immersive fantasy for young readers. Stopping for a Spell is a collection of three shorter stories designed for slightly younger readers. Set in a mostly familiar 20th century England with only a few magical differences, these tales will delight middle grade readers. Furniture comes to life, mysterious grannies come to stay, and more. Charming and detailed illustrations round out an enjoyable reading experience that will be a great introduction to the author’s work for new readers.
Why Do Clocks Run Clockwise?, by David Feldman, $2.99. Do you have that kid who always wants to know the answers to weird questions? Are you the grown-up version of that kid? David Feldman’s Imponderables series is just the thing for you. He answers such questions as “why do dogs circle before lying down?” and “why is a telephone keypad arranged differently from a calculator?” Feldman tracks down experts to get to the bottom of many strange questions. The short sections make this book appealing to casual readers who might not pick up a novel.
The Tale of Despereaux, by Kate DiCamillo, $4.08. This thrilling tale of adventure tells the story of Despereaux, a brave young mouse who takes on an extraordinary quest This moving story will delight readers young and old, though it is somewhat darker than you might expect from the cover art. Beautiful illustrations set the tone.
Kindle Deals for October 23, 2019
Magic, music, and monsters in today’s Kindle deals.
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.)
BIG NEWS! We now have an email list to send you a reminder each time we post new deals to the website. If you’d like to make sure you never miss a deal, sign up here.
Monsters You Should Know, by Emma Sancartier, $1.99. This is the cutest book about horrifying monsters that you will ever see. Truly creepy monsters from folklore around the world are illustrated in a scary but still somehow charming style. This is a picture book, but probably best for ages 8+. You could shape an interesting unit study around researching these monsters.
Bliss, by Kathryn Littlewood, $3.99. The Bliss family runs a popular bakery with a secret: many of the recipes come from the family’s magic “Cookery Booke,” an ancient and powerful resource. Rosemary Bliss is looking after her siblings while her parents go out of town, leaving strict instructions not to open the book without supervision. When mysterious Aunt Lily shows up unexpectedly, the kids don’t think it would be too problematic to make some recipes from the book for her. What could possibly go wrong? This middle grade book is warm, funny, and packed with delicious details.
Guitar Zero, by Gary Marcus, $4.99. You’re never too old, or too young, to learn music. Gary Marcus was nearly 40 when he decided he wanted to learn the guitar despite having little musical experience or skill. Marcus is a scientist, and he describes both his personal musical journey and the science behind how the brain integrates new skills.
STILL ON SALE
The Bone Houses, by Emily Lloyd-Jones, $2.99. I have heard so much about this book. It is a creepy delight of a YA novel. Ryn and her family tend the graveyard in the small town of Colbren. The problem is, the bodies don’t always stay dead. Sometimes the dead “bone houses” come back to life. When the risings start to increase, Ryn and apprentice mapmaker Ellis must journey to discover the secret of the curse that is tormenting the town. This is a brand new novel that is getting a lot of buzz.
The Read-Aloud Handbook, by Jim Trelease, $4.99. Every household should have a copy of this book, a guide to awesome books to read with children. The first half of the book explain why you should read aloud to the children in your life. There are sections on problem solving for reluctant readers or listeners, as well as a section specifically on getting dads involved in the reading process. The second half of the book is a giant compendium of read-aloud books. Each book listed has a short summary, suggested age group, notes about any sensitive topics, and a list of related books. This edition was released in 2013; an updated version was just published, but it is not on sale.
Northanger Abbey, by Val McDermid, $1.99. A few years ago, a group of acclaimed authors decided to write new interpretations of each of Jane Austen’s novels. Val McDermid, author of many bestselling mysteries, decided to take on Austen’s creepiest novel, Northanger Abbey. In this modern retelling, homeschooled bookworm Cat Morland is invited by the Allen family to attend the Edinburgh Fringe Festival with them. In Edinburgh, she meets the Thorpe family, as well as handsome lawyer Henry Tilney. But is everything really as it seems? This version of Northanger Abbey will thrill and chill Austen fans and neophytes alike.
Ivy and Bean Books 1-3, by Annie Barrows, $1.99. These sweet and funny stories are perfect for your new reader. My daughter has moved far beyond this series, but still often picks up one of these books to reread in a single sitting. From my junior reviewer: “I really love these books because the characters are believably drawn with just the right amount of humor. They tie in hilarious and unusual circumstances, including magic sometimes, with things I have experienced. They have a very specific sense of humor, which I share, and I can relate to almost all of the characters.”
Brief Answers to the Big Questions, by Stephen Hawking, $2.99. Famed cosmologist Stephen Hawking has written many books, but this one is a little different. At the end of his life, he set out to answer some important questions. Is there other intelligent life in the universe? Is time travel possible? How do we shape the future? Hawking offers his own opinions on these and more. (Note: There is some discussion of religion and atheism.)
The House in Poplar Wood, by K.E. Ormsbee, $1.99. When I saw this book described as “Haunted Mansion meets Stranger Things,” I was totally hooked. The publisher has written a better summary than I possibly could: “For as long as the Vickery twins can remember, Lee and his mother have served Memory, while Felix and his father assist Death. This is the Agreement. But one Halloween, Gretchen Whipple smashes her way into their lives. Her bargain is simple: If the twins help her solve the murder of local girl Essie Hasting, she'll help them break the Agreement. The more the three investigate, however, the more they realize that something's gone terribly wrong in their town. Death is on the loose, and if history repeats itself, Essie's might not be the last murder in Poplar Wood. Simultaneously heartwarming and delightfully spooky, The House in Poplar Wood is a story about a boy's desire to be free, a girl's desire to make a difference, and a family's desire to be together again.”
Emily’s Runaway Imagination, by Beverly Cleary, $4.99. This is a charming but lesser-known middle grade book from beloved children’s author Beverly Cleary. Emily reminds me of Pippi Longstocking without the clearly impossible situations. From the publisher: “Spunky Emily Bartlett lives in an old farmhouse in Pitchfork, Oregon'at a time when automobiles are brand-new inventions and libraries are a luxury few small towns can afford. Her runaway imagination leads her to bleach a horse, hold a very scary sleepover, and feed the hogs an unusual treat. But can she use her lively mind to help bring a library to Pitchfork?”
Tangled in Time: The Portal, by Kathryn Lasky, $1.99. This charming middle grade novel is a time travel story. Rose finds a time portal in her grandmother’s greenhouse that transports her to the the court of Henry VIII. She befriends the young Princess Elizabeth and discovers a mysterious locket that may hold a secret connecting Rose to the Tudor world.
The Omnivore’s Dilemma, by Michael Pollan, $1.99. The concept of this book is simple — Michael Pollan takes four meals and traces each ingredient back to it’s agricultural origins. Along the way, he discovers much about the business and culture of our modern food landscape. From McDonald’s to Whole Foods and several stops in between, Pollan considers the health and environmental implications of our food choices. There’s also a young reader’s edition if you’d like to include kids in the dinner table discussions.
Dear Data, by Giogia Lupi and Stefanie Posavec, $2.99. This book has a fascinating concept: two friends in different countries sent each other a postcard every week for a year. Every week had a theme, and the two friends recorded data about their lives and created a way to represent it visually. The result is more than 100 postcards illustrating the details of their lives. You’ll find this a great discussion starter about ways to visually represent ideas.
Talking Across the Divide: How to Communicate with People You Disagree with and Maybe Even Change the World, by Justin Lee, $4.99. I run a large homeschool co-op, which puts me in the position to get to know a wide variety of people. Books like Talking Across the Divide in invaluable in the current political climate for helping people find ways to connect.
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 Hero’s Guide to Saving Your Kingdom, by Christopher Healy, $1.99. You think you know the classic fairytale stories, but they are usually centered around the princesses. This fun middle grade series focuses on the princes. After the “happily ever after” the princes discover that their kingdoms are in danger, and they set off take on all kinds of mythical monsters. This fun and funny book is the first in a series that your middle-grade reader will love.
The Mind’s Eye, by Oliver Sacks, $4.99. What would your life be like if you lost a fundamental part of your sensory experience? Neuroscientist Oliver Sacks explores what makes us who we are in this collection of profiles. From the concert pianist who loses the ability to read music to the woman who finds herself unable to speak, Sacks deftly recreates the breadth of human experience.
Cut in Half: The Hidden World of Everyday Objects, by Mike 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.)
Art Before Breakfast: A Zillion Ways to be More Creative No Matter How Busy You Are, by Danny Gregory, $2.99. My daughter loves doing art, and fills lots of her spare time making things. I’ve never considered myself an artist and struggle to find time to develop my skills. This book is a great place to start. Danny Gregory has created short, fun activities that take 10 minutes or less. They will encourage you to make art a regular part of your life. This book is a great way to add some art education to your homeschool, or to carve out a bit of time for your own creativity.
Forensics: What Bugs, Burns, Prints, DNA, and More Tell Us About Crime, by Val McDermid, $1.99. Val McDermid is fascinated by forensics in a way only a mystery writer can be. She has a keen eye for detail, and she can make dry facts seem riveting. You’ll come away from this book much more knowledgeable about the facts of crime investigation (as opposed to some of the technological magic of CSI).
50 Inventions That Shaped the Modern Economy, by Tim Harford, $4.99. I love this kind of book, a history through specific objects. Here’s how the publisher describes it: “Fifty Inventions That Shaped the Modern Economy paints an epic picture of change in an intimate way by telling the stories of the tools, people, and ideas that had far-reaching consequences for all of us. From the plough to artificial intelligence, from Gillette’s disposable razor to IKEA’s Billy bookcase, bestselling author and Financial Times columnist Tim Harford recounts each invention’s own curious, surprising, and memorable story.”
The Physics of Superheroes: Spectacular Second Edition, by James Kakalios, $4.99. Why did Krypton explode? How does Spiderman’s webbing actually work? How do you make a lightweight, bulletproof costume? Kakalios, a physics and astronomy professor, knows his stuff and can explain it with humor and detail. This second edition has three new chapters, so it might be worth a buy even if you’ve already read the first edition.
The Wizards of Once, by Cressida Cowell, $1.99. My family loved the How to Train Your Dragon series, and we are excited to begin another series by Cressida Cowell. Here’s what the publisher says: Once there were Wizards, who were Magic, and Warriors, who were not. But Xar, son of the King of Wizards, can't cast a single spell. And Wish, daughter of the Warrior Queen, has a banned magical object of her own. When they collide in the wildwood, on the trail of a deadly witch, it's the start of a grand adventure that just might change the fabric of their worlds.
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.)
Hamstersaurus Rex, by Tom O’Donnell, $1.99. Is this another creepy book for Halloween? Yes and no. This wild middle school story will entertain and delight while still addressing some tougher emotional issues. From the publisher: “When a mysterious growling hamster appears at the back of his class, Sam knows just what to call him: Hamstersaurus Rex. Sam tries to protect Hammie from an overzealous Hamster Monitor, and from the meanest bully in the history of Horace Hotwater Middle School. The bully isn’t afraid of some weird little class pet. But maybe he should be. Hamstersaurus Rex is no ordinary hamster.”
Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking, by Susan Cain, $2.99. Introverts may be overrepresented in the homeschool world. I was just having a discussion with my daughter about how many social norms are set up by and for extroverted people. This insightful book is a celebration of introverts, an analysis of their role in society, and a guide for ways that introverts can find success. This is an excellent book, whether you are an introvert or want to understand an introvert. There’s also a children’s version that I am looking forward to sharing with my family.
Making the Monster: The Science Behind Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, by Katheryn Harkup, $1.99. Another Halloween-related book for October! From the publisher: Making the Monster explores the scientific background behind Mary Shelley's book. Is there any science fact behind the science fiction? And how might a real-life Victor Frankenstein have gone about creating his monster? From tales of volcanic eruptions, artificial life and chemical revolutions, to experimental surgery, 'monsters' and electrical experiments on human cadavers, Kathryn Harkup examines the science and scientists that influenced Shelley, and inspired her most famous creation.”
Corsets & Codpieces, by Karen Bowman, $1.99. How did 18th century women get their skirts to stick out to far? Why did medieval men accentuate their figure with over the top codpieces? This book explores the history of outrageous fashion. (Note: As you might expect from the title, sex comes up fairly often. This might be a good choice for teens and adults.)
Penny and Her Song, by Kevin Henkes, $4.99. Your beginning reader will love this series about Penny, an adorable and charming young mouse. Penny comes home with a new song that she is so eager to sing! However, her parents beg her to keep quiet while her twin siblings are sleeping. Will Penny ever be able to share her music? This is an excellent book for early readers ready to venture into short chapter books. It was one of my daughter’s favorite’s when she began reading on her own.
You Are Not So Smart, by David McRay, $1.99. We all like to believe that we know why we do the things we do, but what is the reality? David McRay breaks it down for you in the pithy guide to common ways your brain is tricking you. From the Dunning-Kruger Effect to the Straw Man Delusion, McRay patiently guides the reader through modern psychological research. The tone is fairly light, and the real world examples are plentiful. This book is broken down into 48 short sections ideal for quick dipping into for discussion around the dinner table.
American Trailblazers: 50 Remarkable People Who Shaped U.S. History, by Lisa Trusiani, $1.99. Yesterday was full of history deals, but they were all for older readers, so I was glad to find something for my younger historians today. American Trailblazers profiles men and women from many fields who have accomplished impressive things. I was pleased to see racial and gender diversity in the performers, scientists, writers, and other careers mentioned. Cute illustrations make this book inviting, and the lists of related people to investigate will let kids dig deep into their interests.
How to Knit: Learn the Basic Stitches and Techniques, by Lesley Ann Bestor, $2.99. There is finally, FINALLY, a chill in the air, and that means it is time to start planning cozy inside activities for the winter months. Maybe this is the year your family dabbles with fiber arts. How to Knit is a cheerful, basic guide to all you’ll need to make your first knitting projects. If you want something more substantial, The Knowledgeable Knitter leaves no stitch unturned. Not sure knitting is for you? How to Crochet is also on sale!
Sisters in Law: How Sandra Day O’Connor and Ruth Bader Ginsburg Went to the Supreme Court and Changed the World, by Linda R. Hirshman, $2.99. At first glance, Ginsburg and O’Connor would seem to have little in common. Their backgrounds are different in virtually every particular. It was their career path, and the inherent struggles in trailblazing a path for women in the law, that brought them together and helped them to develop a warm working relationship and friendship. Sisters in Law is a biography of these two remarkable women and their work to improve women’s lives in America.
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.
In a Dark, Dark Room and Other Scary Stories, by Alvin Schwartz, $1.99. Some kids just LOVE to be creeped out, and it’s never too early to get a delightfully spooky book into their hands. This is a collection of scary stories for beginning readers. Turn down the lights and let your child give a haunted story hour. The vibrant and twisted illustrations add to the fun.
Dear Martin, by Nic Stone, $1.99. From our 2017 Fall Book Guide: Teenage Justyce starts a journal writing to Martin Luther King, Jr., after a false arrest has him questioning racism and resistance in his world. When his worst fears are realized in a police shooting, Justyce has to confront the darkest parts of himself and the world he lives in.
Letters of Note, Volume 1, by Shaun Usher, $3.99. Letters can be surprising, meaningful, and just plain odd. Shaun Usher has collected more than 100 interesting letters to share in this volume. You can read a letter from Elvis to President Nixon which Elvis offers to become a Federal Agent. The letters cover a wide time period and topics from politics to art to food. Each letter includes a big of background information, and many include a photo of the letter itself. This is a fun book to dip into over and over again.
Coraline: The Graphic Novel, by Neil Gaiman and P. Craig Russell, $1.99. Coraline is a classic creepy tale about a girl who discovers an alternate version of her reality when she moves to a new house. At first the new house and new family seems like all Coraline has ever wanted, but things are not as they seem. I will never look at a Lalaloopsy doll in the same way having read this book. The realistic drawings increase the creep factor, making it more unsettling than the movie adaptation.
Beatrix Potter’s Gardening Life, by Marta McDowell, $1.99. Beatrix Potter’s stories of sentient animals getting up to mischief have charmed children and parents for generations. Her beautiful watercolor illustrations really bring her characters to life. In this book, McDowell describes the events that shaped Potter’s love of the outdoors, then takes readers on a guided tour of the outdoor settings that are so crucial to Potter’s work. Gorgeous watercolors and photos enhance the reading experience.
Life in a Medieval Castle, by Frances and Joseph Gies, $1.99. Interest in the medieval period had a resurgence in popularity with the rise of Game of Thrones. But you don’t need to be a die-hard dragon fan to appreciate this comprehensive guide to medieval life. The Gieses cover everything from food to heating to knights’ training. The comprehensive index makes it easy to dip in for just the information you need, or you can curl up and dive deep into a world long past.
The Sky Below, by Scott Parazynski and Susy Flory, $0.99. Scott Parazynski’s memoir of the adventures and training that led him to become an astronaut is fascinating. What makes this book thrilling, though, is the Kindle in Motion feature. When you read this book on a Kindle Fire or the Kindle app on another tablet, you will marvel at the embedded video. The pages come to live with views of rockets launching, the earth from space, and more. This is a must have for anyone interested in space flight.
How to Draw Cool Things, by Rachel Goldstein, $2.99. When I was in school, every class had at least one kid who knew how to make cool lettering or designs in the margins of the paper. I felt like it was some kind of magical power. Now your kids can be in on the secrets with this fun guide to drawing optical illusions, 3D doodles, and more. Twelve-year-old me is so jealous.
The Dark Descent of Elizabeth Frankenstein, by Kiersten White, $1.99. Continuing our creepy theme for the day, we have this exciting and unsettling YA retelling of Frankenstein. Elizabeth is a neglected child who is brought into the Frankenstein family as a companion for the troubled Victor. She lives with the Frankensteins for years, her one task being to control Victor’s temper and dark impulses. But what must she do to keep him happy? Teens and adults with enjoy this “exquisitely disturbing” novel. The bonus copy of Mary Shelley’s original novel included in the ebook will make for an excellent comparative literature lesson.
Stopping for a Spell, by Diana Wynne Jones, $2.99. You may know Diana Wynne Jones from her excellent Howl’s Moving Castle and Chrestomanci series. She is a master of immersive fantasy for young readers. Stopping for a Spell is a collection of three shorter stories designed for slightly younger readers. Set in a mostly familiar 20th century England with only a few magical differences, these tales will delight middle grade readers. Furniture comes to life, mysterious grannies come to stay, and more. Charming and detailed illustrations round out an enjoyable reading experience that will be a great introduction to the author’s work for new readers.
Why Do Clocks Run Clockwise?, by David Feldman, $2.99. Do you have that kid who always wants to know the answers to weird questions? Are you the grown-up version of that kid? David Feldman’s Imponderables series is just the thing for you. He answers such questions as “why do dogs circle before lying down?” and “why is a telephone keypad arranged differently from a calculator?” Feldman tracks down experts to get to the bottom of many strange questions. The short sections make this book appealing to casual readers who might not pick up a novel.
The Tale of Despereaux, by Kate DiCamillo, $4.08. This thrilling tale of adventure tells the story of Despereaux, a brave young mouse who takes on an extraordinary quest This moving story will delight readers young and old, though it is somewhat darker than you might expect from the cover art. Beautiful illustrations set the tone.
Kindle Deals for October 22, 2019
Two chilling tales and one practical guide to the reading life in today’s Kindle deals.
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.)
BIG NEWS! We now have an email list to send you a reminder each time we post new deals to the website. If you’d like to make sure you never miss a deal, sign up here.
The Bone Houses, by Emily Lloyd-Jones, $2.99. I have heard so much about this book. It is a creepy delight of a YA novel. Ryn and her family tend the graveyard in the small town of Colbren. The problem is, the bodies don’t always stay dead. Sometimes the dead “bone houses” come back to life. When the risings start to increase, Ryn and apprentice mapmaker Ellis must journey to discover the secret of the curse that is tormenting the town. This is a brand new novel that is getting a lot of buzz.
The Read-Aloud Handbook, by Jim Trelease, $4.99. Every household should have a copy of this book, a guide to awesome books to read with children. The first half of the book explain why you should read aloud to the children in your life. There are sections on problem solving for reluctant readers or listeners, as well as a section specifically on getting dads involved in the reading process. The second half of the book is a giant compendium of read-aloud books. Each book listed has a short summary, suggested age group, notes about any sensitive topics, and a list of related books. This edition was released in 2013; an updated version was just published, but it is not on sale.
Northanger Abbey, by Val McDermid, $1.99. A few years ago, a group of acclaimed authors decided to write new interpretations of each of Jane Austen’s novels. Val McDermid, author of many bestselling mysteries, decided to take on Austen’s creepiest novel, Northanger Abbey. In this modern retelling, homeschooled bookworm Cat Morland is invited by the Allen family to attend the Edinburgh Fringe Festival with them. In Edinburgh, she meets the Thorpe family, as well as handsome lawyer Henry Tilney. But is everything really as it seems? This version of Northanger Abbey will thrill and chill Austen fans and neophytes alike.
STILL ON SALE
Ivy and Bean Books 1-3, by Annie Barrows, $1.99. These sweet and funny stories are perfect for your new reader. My daughter has moved far beyond this series, but still often picks up one of these books to reread in a single sitting. From my junior reviewer: “I really love these books because the characters are believably drawn with just the right amount of humor. They tie in hilarious and unusual circumstances, including magic sometimes, with things I have experienced. They have a very specific sense of humor, which I share, and I can relate to almost all of the characters.”
Brief Answers to the Big Questions, by Stephen Hawking, $2.99. Famed cosmologist Stephen Hawking has written many books, but this one is a little different. At the end of his life, he set out to answer some important questions. Is there other intelligent life in the universe? Is time travel possible? How do we shape the future? Hawking offers his own opinions on these and more. (Note: There is some discussion of religion and atheism.)
The House in Poplar Wood, by K.E. Ormsbee, $1.99. When I saw this book described as “Haunted Mansion meets Stranger Things,” I was totally hooked. The publisher has written a better summary than I possibly could: “For as long as the Vickery twins can remember, Lee and his mother have served Memory, while Felix and his father assist Death. This is the Agreement. But one Halloween, Gretchen Whipple smashes her way into their lives. Her bargain is simple: If the twins help her solve the murder of local girl Essie Hasting, she'll help them break the Agreement. The more the three investigate, however, the more they realize that something's gone terribly wrong in their town. Death is on the loose, and if history repeats itself, Essie's might not be the last murder in Poplar Wood. Simultaneously heartwarming and delightfully spooky, The House in Poplar Wood is a story about a boy's desire to be free, a girl's desire to make a difference, and a family's desire to be together again.”
Emily’s Runaway Imagination, by Beverly Cleary, $4.99. This is a charming but lesser-known middle grade book from beloved children’s author Beverly Cleary. Emily reminds me of Pippi Longstocking without the clearly impossible situations. From the publisher: “Spunky Emily Bartlett lives in an old farmhouse in Pitchfork, Oregon'at a time when automobiles are brand-new inventions and libraries are a luxury few small towns can afford. Her runaway imagination leads her to bleach a horse, hold a very scary sleepover, and feed the hogs an unusual treat. But can she use her lively mind to help bring a library to Pitchfork?”
Tangled in Time: The Portal, by Kathryn Lasky, $1.99. This charming middle grade novel is a time travel story. Rose finds a time portal in her grandmother’s greenhouse that transports her to the the court of Henry VIII. She befriends the young Princess Elizabeth and discovers a mysterious locket that may hold a secret connecting Rose to the Tudor world.
The Omnivore’s Dilemma, by Michael Pollan, $1.99. The concept of this book is simple — Michael Pollan takes four meals and traces each ingredient back to it’s agricultural origins. Along the way, he discovers much about the business and culture of our modern food landscape. From McDonald’s to Whole Foods and several stops in between, Pollan considers the health and environmental implications of our food choices. There’s also a young reader’s edition if you’d like to include kids in the dinner table discussions.
Dear Data, by Giogia Lupi and Stefanie Posavec, $2.99. This book has a fascinating concept: two friends in different countries sent each other a postcard every week for a year. Every week had a theme, and the two friends recorded data about their lives and created a way to represent it visually. The result is more than 100 postcards illustrating the details of their lives. You’ll find this a great discussion starter about ways to visually represent ideas.
Talking Across the Divide: How to Communicate with People You Disagree with and Maybe Even Change the World, by Justin Lee, $4.99. I run a large homeschool co-op, which puts me in the position to get to know a wide variety of people. Books like Talking Across the Divide in invaluable in the current political climate for helping people find ways to connect.
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 Hero’s Guide to Saving Your Kingdom, by Christopher Healy, $1.99. You think you know the classic fairytale stories, but they are usually centered around the princesses. This fun middle grade series focuses on the princes. After the “happily ever after” the princes discover that their kingdoms are in danger, and they set off take on all kinds of mythical monsters. This fun and funny book is the first in a series that your middle-grade reader will love.
The Mind’s Eye, by Oliver Sacks, $4.99. What would your life be like if you lost a fundamental part of your sensory experience? Neuroscientist Oliver Sacks explores what makes us who we are in this collection of profiles. From the concert pianist who loses the ability to read music to the woman who finds herself unable to speak, Sacks deftly recreates the breadth of human experience.
Cut in Half: The Hidden World of Everyday Objects, by Mike 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.)
Art Before Breakfast: A Zillion Ways to be More Creative No Matter How Busy You Are, by Danny Gregory, $2.99. My daughter loves doing art, and fills lots of her spare time making things. I’ve never considered myself an artist and struggle to find time to develop my skills. This book is a great place to start. Danny Gregory has created short, fun activities that take 10 minutes or less. They will encourage you to make art a regular part of your life. This book is a great way to add some art education to your homeschool, or to carve out a bit of time for your own creativity.
Forensics: What Bugs, Burns, Prints, DNA, and More Tell Us About Crime, by Val McDermid, $1.99. Val McDermid is fascinated by forensics in a way only a mystery writer can be. She has a keen eye for detail, and she can make dry facts seem riveting. You’ll come away from this book much more knowledgeable about the facts of crime investigation (as opposed to some of the technological magic of CSI).
50 Inventions That Shaped the Modern Economy, by Tim Harford, $4.99. I love this kind of book, a history through specific objects. Here’s how the publisher describes it: “Fifty Inventions That Shaped the Modern Economy paints an epic picture of change in an intimate way by telling the stories of the tools, people, and ideas that had far-reaching consequences for all of us. From the plough to artificial intelligence, from Gillette’s disposable razor to IKEA’s Billy bookcase, bestselling author and Financial Times columnist Tim Harford recounts each invention’s own curious, surprising, and memorable story.”
The Physics of Superheroes: Spectacular Second Edition, by James Kakalios, $4.99. Why did Krypton explode? How does Spiderman’s webbing actually work? How do you make a lightweight, bulletproof costume? Kakalios, a physics and astronomy professor, knows his stuff and can explain it with humor and detail. This second edition has three new chapters, so it might be worth a buy even if you’ve already read the first edition.
The Wizards of Once, by Cressida Cowell, $1.99. My family loved the How to Train Your Dragon series, and we are excited to begin another series by Cressida Cowell. Here’s what the publisher says: Once there were Wizards, who were Magic, and Warriors, who were not. But Xar, son of the King of Wizards, can't cast a single spell. And Wish, daughter of the Warrior Queen, has a banned magical object of her own. When they collide in the wildwood, on the trail of a deadly witch, it's the start of a grand adventure that just might change the fabric of their worlds.
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.)
Hamstersaurus Rex, by Tom O’Donnell, $1.99. Is this another creepy book for Halloween? Yes and no. This wild middle school story will entertain and delight while still addressing some tougher emotional issues. From the publisher: “When a mysterious growling hamster appears at the back of his class, Sam knows just what to call him: Hamstersaurus Rex. Sam tries to protect Hammie from an overzealous Hamster Monitor, and from the meanest bully in the history of Horace Hotwater Middle School. The bully isn’t afraid of some weird little class pet. But maybe he should be. Hamstersaurus Rex is no ordinary hamster.”
Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking, by Susan Cain, $2.99. Introverts may be overrepresented in the homeschool world. I was just having a discussion with my daughter about how many social norms are set up by and for extroverted people. This insightful book is a celebration of introverts, an analysis of their role in society, and a guide for ways that introverts can find success. This is an excellent book, whether you are an introvert or want to understand an introvert. There’s also a children’s version that I am looking forward to sharing with my family.
Making the Monster: The Science Behind Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, by Katheryn Harkup, $1.99. Another Halloween-related book for October! From the publisher: Making the Monster explores the scientific background behind Mary Shelley's book. Is there any science fact behind the science fiction? And how might a real-life Victor Frankenstein have gone about creating his monster? From tales of volcanic eruptions, artificial life and chemical revolutions, to experimental surgery, 'monsters' and electrical experiments on human cadavers, Kathryn Harkup examines the science and scientists that influenced Shelley, and inspired her most famous creation.”
Corsets & Codpieces, by Karen Bowman, $1.99. How did 18th century women get their skirts to stick out to far? Why did medieval men accentuate their figure with over the top codpieces? This book explores the history of outrageous fashion. (Note: As you might expect from the title, sex comes up fairly often. This might be a good choice for teens and adults.)
Penny and Her Song, by Kevin Henkes, $4.99. Your beginning reader will love this series about Penny, an adorable and charming young mouse. Penny comes home with a new song that she is so eager to sing! However, her parents beg her to keep quiet while her twin siblings are sleeping. Will Penny ever be able to share her music? This is an excellent book for early readers ready to venture into short chapter books. It was one of my daughter’s favorite’s when she began reading on her own.
You Are Not So Smart, by David McRay, $1.99. We all like to believe that we know why we do the things we do, but what is the reality? David McRay breaks it down for you in the pithy guide to common ways your brain is tricking you. From the Dunning-Kruger Effect to the Straw Man Delusion, McRay patiently guides the reader through modern psychological research. The tone is fairly light, and the real world examples are plentiful. This book is broken down into 48 short sections ideal for quick dipping into for discussion around the dinner table.
American Trailblazers: 50 Remarkable People Who Shaped U.S. History, by Lisa Trusiani, $1.99. Yesterday was full of history deals, but they were all for older readers, so I was glad to find something for my younger historians today. American Trailblazers profiles men and women from many fields who have accomplished impressive things. I was pleased to see racial and gender diversity in the performers, scientists, writers, and other careers mentioned. Cute illustrations make this book inviting, and the lists of related people to investigate will let kids dig deep into their interests.
How to Knit: Learn the Basic Stitches and Techniques, by Lesley Ann Bestor, $2.99. There is finally, FINALLY, a chill in the air, and that means it is time to start planning cozy inside activities for the winter months. Maybe this is the year your family dabbles with fiber arts. How to Knit is a cheerful, basic guide to all you’ll need to make your first knitting projects. If you want something more substantial, The Knowledgeable Knitter leaves no stitch unturned. Not sure knitting is for you? How to Crochet is also on sale!
Sisters in Law: How Sandra Day O’Connor and Ruth Bader Ginsburg Went to the Supreme Court and Changed the World, by Linda R. Hirshman, $2.99. At first glance, Ginsburg and O’Connor would seem to have little in common. Their backgrounds are different in virtually every particular. It was their career path, and the inherent struggles in trailblazing a path for women in the law, that brought them together and helped them to develop a warm working relationship and friendship. Sisters in Law is a biography of these two remarkable women and their work to improve women’s lives in America.
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.
In a Dark, Dark Room and Other Scary Stories, by Alvin Schwartz, $1.99. Some kids just LOVE to be creeped out, and it’s never too early to get a delightfully spooky book into their hands. This is a collection of scary stories for beginning readers. Turn down the lights and let your child give a haunted story hour. The vibrant and twisted illustrations add to the fun.
Dear Martin, by Nic Stone, $1.99. From our 2017 Fall Book Guide: Teenage Justyce starts a journal writing to Martin Luther King, Jr., after a false arrest has him questioning racism and resistance in his world. When his worst fears are realized in a police shooting, Justyce has to confront the darkest parts of himself and the world he lives in.
Letters of Note, Volume 1, by Shaun Usher, $3.99. Letters can be surprising, meaningful, and just plain odd. Shaun Usher has collected more than 100 interesting letters to share in this volume. You can read a letter from Elvis to President Nixon which Elvis offers to become a Federal Agent. The letters cover a wide time period and topics from politics to art to food. Each letter includes a big of background information, and many include a photo of the letter itself. This is a fun book to dip into over and over again.
Coraline: The Graphic Novel, by Neil Gaiman and P. Craig Russell, $1.99. Coraline is a classic creepy tale about a girl who discovers an alternate version of her reality when she moves to a new house. At first the new house and new family seems like all Coraline has ever wanted, but things are not as they seem. I will never look at a Lalaloopsy doll in the same way having read this book. The realistic drawings increase the creep factor, making it more unsettling than the movie adaptation.
Beatrix Potter’s Gardening Life, by Marta McDowell, $1.99. Beatrix Potter’s stories of sentient animals getting up to mischief have charmed children and parents for generations. Her beautiful watercolor illustrations really bring her characters to life. In this book, McDowell describes the events that shaped Potter’s love of the outdoors, then takes readers on a guided tour of the outdoor settings that are so crucial to Potter’s work. Gorgeous watercolors and photos enhance the reading experience.
Life in a Medieval Castle, by Frances and Joseph Gies, $1.99. Interest in the medieval period had a resurgence in popularity with the rise of Game of Thrones. But you don’t need to be a die-hard dragon fan to appreciate this comprehensive guide to medieval life. The Gieses cover everything from food to heating to knights’ training. The comprehensive index makes it easy to dip in for just the information you need, or you can curl up and dive deep into a world long past.
The Sky Below, by Scott Parazynski and Susy Flory, $0.99. Scott Parazynski’s memoir of the adventures and training that led him to become an astronaut is fascinating. What makes this book thrilling, though, is the Kindle in Motion feature. When you read this book on a Kindle Fire or the Kindle app on another tablet, you will marvel at the embedded video. The pages come to live with views of rockets launching, the earth from space, and more. This is a must have for anyone interested in space flight.
How to Draw Cool Things, by Rachel Goldstein, $2.99. When I was in school, every class had at least one kid who knew how to make cool lettering or designs in the margins of the paper. I felt like it was some kind of magical power. Now your kids can be in on the secrets with this fun guide to drawing optical illusions, 3D doodles, and more. Twelve-year-old me is so jealous.
The Dark Descent of Elizabeth Frankenstein, by Kiersten White, $1.99. Continuing our creepy theme for the day, we have this exciting and unsettling YA retelling of Frankenstein. Elizabeth is a neglected child who is brought into the Frankenstein family as a companion for the troubled Victor. She lives with the Frankensteins for years, her one task being to control Victor’s temper and dark impulses. But what must she do to keep him happy? Teens and adults with enjoy this “exquisitely disturbing” novel. The bonus copy of Mary Shelley’s original novel included in the ebook will make for an excellent comparative literature lesson.
Stopping for a Spell, by Diana Wynne Jones, $2.99. You may know Diana Wynne Jones from her excellent Howl’s Moving Castle and Chrestomanci series. She is a master of immersive fantasy for young readers. Stopping for a Spell is a collection of three shorter stories designed for slightly younger readers. Set in a mostly familiar 20th century England with only a few magical differences, these tales will delight middle grade readers. Furniture comes to life, mysterious grannies come to stay, and more. Charming and detailed illustrations round out an enjoyable reading experience that will be a great introduction to the author’s work for new readers.
Why Do Clocks Run Clockwise?, by David Feldman, $2.99. Do you have that kid who always wants to know the answers to weird questions? Are you the grown-up version of that kid? David Feldman’s Imponderables series is just the thing for you. He answers such questions as “why do dogs circle before lying down?” and “why is a telephone keypad arranged differently from a calculator?” Feldman tracks down experts to get to the bottom of many strange questions. The short sections make this book appealing to casual readers who might not pick up a novel.
The Tale of Despereaux, by Kate DiCamillo, $4.08. This thrilling tale of adventure tells the story of Despereaux, a brave young mouse who takes on an extraordinary quest This moving story will delight readers young and old, though it is somewhat darker than you might expect from the cover art. Beautiful illustrations set the tone.
Kindle Deals for October 21, 2019
Great value on a chapter book series, cosmology, and more!
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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Ivy and Bean Books 1-3, by Annie Barrows, $1.99. These sweet and funny stories are perfect for your new reader. My daughter has moved far beyond this series, but still often picks up one of these books to reread in a single sitting. From my junior reviewer: “I really love these books because the characters are believably drawn with just the right amount of humor. They tie in hilarious and unusual circumstances, including magic sometimes, with things I have experienced. They have a very specific sense of humor, which I share, and I can relate to almost all of the characters.”
Brief Answers to the Big Questions, by Stephen Hawking, $2.99. Famed cosmologist Stephen Hawking has written many books, but this one is a little different. At the end of his life, he set out to answer some important questions. Is there other intelligent life in the universe? Is time travel possible? How do we shape the future? Hawking offers his own opinions on these and more. (Note: There is some discussion of religion and atheism.)
The House in Poplar Wood, by K.E. Ormsbee, $1.99. When I saw this book described as “Haunted Mansion meets Stranger Things,” I was totally hooked. The publisher has written a better summary than I possibly could: “For as long as the Vickery twins can remember, Lee and his mother have served Memory, while Felix and his father assist Death. This is the Agreement. But one Halloween, Gretchen Whipple smashes her way into their lives. Her bargain is simple: If the twins help her solve the murder of local girl Essie Hasting, she'll help them break the Agreement. The more the three investigate, however, the more they realize that something's gone terribly wrong in their town. Death is on the loose, and if history repeats itself, Essie's might not be the last murder in Poplar Wood. Simultaneously heartwarming and delightfully spooky, The House in Poplar Wood is a story about a boy's desire to be free, a girl's desire to make a difference, and a family's desire to be together again.”
STILL ON SALE
Emily’s Runaway Imagination, by Beverly Cleary, $4.99. This is a charming but lesser-known middle grade book from beloved children’s author Beverly Cleary. Emily reminds me of Pippi Longstocking without the clearly impossible situations. From the publisher: “Spunky Emily Bartlett lives in an old farmhouse in Pitchfork, Oregon'at a time when automobiles are brand-new inventions and libraries are a luxury few small towns can afford. Her runaway imagination leads her to bleach a horse, hold a very scary sleepover, and feed the hogs an unusual treat. But can she use her lively mind to help bring a library to Pitchfork?”
Tangled in Time: The Portal, by Kathryn Lasky, $1.99. This charming middle grade novel is a time travel story. Rose finds a time portal in her grandmother’s greenhouse that transports her to the the court of Henry VIII. She befriends the young Princess Elizabeth and discovers a mysterious locket that may hold a secret connecting Rose to the Tudor world.
The Omnivore’s Dilemma, by Michael Pollan, $1.99. The concept of this book is simple — Michael Pollan takes four meals and traces each ingredient back to it’s agricultural origins. Along the way, he discovers much about the business and culture of our modern food landscape. From McDonald’s to Whole Foods and several stops in between, Pollan considers the health and environmental implications of our food choices. There’s also a young reader’s edition if you’d like to include kids in the dinner table discussions.
Dear Data, by Giogia Lupi and Stefanie Posavec, $2.99. This book has a fascinating concept: two friends in different countries sent each other a postcard every week for a year. Every week had a theme, and the two friends recorded data about their lives and created a way to represent it visually. The result is more than 100 postcards illustrating the details of their lives. You’ll find this a great discussion starter about ways to visually represent ideas.
Talking Across the Divide: How to Communicate with People You Disagree with and Maybe Even Change the World, by Justin Lee, $4.99. I run a large homeschool co-op, which puts me in the position to get to know a wide variety of people. Books like Talking Across the Divide in invaluable in the current political climate for helping people find ways to connect.
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 Hero’s Guide to Saving Your Kingdom, by Christopher Healy, $1.99. You think you know the classic fairytale stories, but they are usually centered around the princesses. This fun middle grade series focuses on the princes. After the “happily ever after” the princes discover that their kingdoms are in danger, and they set off take on all kinds of mythical monsters. This fun and funny book is the first in a series that your middle-grade reader will love.
The Mind’s Eye, by Oliver Sacks, $4.99. What would your life be like if you lost a fundamental part of your sensory experience? Neuroscientist Oliver Sacks explores what makes us who we are in this collection of profiles. From the concert pianist who loses the ability to read music to the woman who finds herself unable to speak, Sacks deftly recreates the breadth of human experience.
Cut in Half: The Hidden World of Everyday Objects, by Mike 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.)
Art Before Breakfast: A Zillion Ways to be More Creative No Matter How Busy You Are, by Danny Gregory, $2.99. My daughter loves doing art, and fills lots of her spare time making things. I’ve never considered myself an artist and struggle to find time to develop my skills. This book is a great place to start. Danny Gregory has created short, fun activities that take 10 minutes or less. They will encourage you to make art a regular part of your life. This book is a great way to add some art education to your homeschool, or to carve out a bit of time for your own creativity.
Forensics: What Bugs, Burns, Prints, DNA, and More Tell Us About Crime, by Val McDermid, $1.99. Val McDermid is fascinated by forensics in a way only a mystery writer can be. She has a keen eye for detail, and she can make dry facts seem riveting. You’ll come away from this book much more knowledgeable about the facts of crime investigation (as opposed to some of the technological magic of CSI).
50 Inventions That Shaped the Modern Economy, by Tim Harford, $4.99. I love this kind of book, a history through specific objects. Here’s how the publisher describes it: “Fifty Inventions That Shaped the Modern Economy paints an epic picture of change in an intimate way by telling the stories of the tools, people, and ideas that had far-reaching consequences for all of us. From the plough to artificial intelligence, from Gillette’s disposable razor to IKEA’s Billy bookcase, bestselling author and Financial Times columnist Tim Harford recounts each invention’s own curious, surprising, and memorable story.”
The Physics of Superheroes: Spectacular Second Edition, by James Kakalios, $4.99. Why did Krypton explode? How does Spiderman’s webbing actually work? How do you make a lightweight, bulletproof costume? Kakalios, a physics and astronomy professor, knows his stuff and can explain it with humor and detail. This second edition has three new chapters, so it might be worth a buy even if you’ve already read the first edition.
The Wizards of Once, by Cressida Cowell, $1.99. My family loved the How to Train Your Dragon series, and we are excited to begin another series by Cressida Cowell. Here’s what the publisher says: Once there were Wizards, who were Magic, and Warriors, who were not. But Xar, son of the King of Wizards, can't cast a single spell. And Wish, daughter of the Warrior Queen, has a banned magical object of her own. When they collide in the wildwood, on the trail of a deadly witch, it's the start of a grand adventure that just might change the fabric of their worlds.
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.)
Hamstersaurus Rex, by Tom O’Donnell, $1.99. Is this another creepy book for Halloween? Yes and no. This wild middle school story will entertain and delight while still addressing some tougher emotional issues. From the publisher: “When a mysterious growling hamster appears at the back of his class, Sam knows just what to call him: Hamstersaurus Rex. Sam tries to protect Hammie from an overzealous Hamster Monitor, and from the meanest bully in the history of Horace Hotwater Middle School. The bully isn’t afraid of some weird little class pet. But maybe he should be. Hamstersaurus Rex is no ordinary hamster.”
Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking, by Susan Cain, $2.99. Introverts may be overrepresented in the homeschool world. I was just having a discussion with my daughter about how many social norms are set up by and for extroverted people. This insightful book is a celebration of introverts, an analysis of their role in society, and a guide for ways that introverts can find success. This is an excellent book, whether you are an introvert or want to understand an introvert. There’s also a children’s version that I am looking forward to sharing with my family.
Making the Monster: The Science Behind Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, by Katheryn Harkup, $1.99. Another Halloween-related book for October! From the publisher: Making the Monster explores the scientific background behind Mary Shelley's book. Is there any science fact behind the science fiction? And how might a real-life Victor Frankenstein have gone about creating his monster? From tales of volcanic eruptions, artificial life and chemical revolutions, to experimental surgery, 'monsters' and electrical experiments on human cadavers, Kathryn Harkup examines the science and scientists that influenced Shelley, and inspired her most famous creation.”
Corsets & Codpieces, by Karen Bowman, $1.99. How did 18th century women get their skirts to stick out to far? Why did medieval men accentuate their figure with over the top codpieces? This book explores the history of outrageous fashion. (Note: As you might expect from the title, sex comes up fairly often. This might be a good choice for teens and adults.)
Penny and Her Song, by Kevin Henkes, $4.99. Your beginning reader will love this series about Penny, an adorable and charming young mouse. Penny comes home with a new song that she is so eager to sing! However, her parents beg her to keep quiet while her twin siblings are sleeping. Will Penny ever be able to share her music? This is an excellent book for early readers ready to venture into short chapter books. It was one of my daughter’s favorite’s when she began reading on her own.
You Are Not So Smart, by David McRay, $1.99. We all like to believe that we know why we do the things we do, but what is the reality? David McRay breaks it down for you in the pithy guide to common ways your brain is tricking you. From the Dunning-Kruger Effect to the Straw Man Delusion, McRay patiently guides the reader through modern psychological research. The tone is fairly light, and the real world examples are plentiful. This book is broken down into 48 short sections ideal for quick dipping into for discussion around the dinner table.
American Trailblazers: 50 Remarkable People Who Shaped U.S. History, by Lisa Trusiani, $1.99. Yesterday was full of history deals, but they were all for older readers, so I was glad to find something for my younger historians today. American Trailblazers profiles men and women from many fields who have accomplished impressive things. I was pleased to see racial and gender diversity in the performers, scientists, writers, and other careers mentioned. Cute illustrations make this book inviting, and the lists of related people to investigate will let kids dig deep into their interests.
How to Knit: Learn the Basic Stitches and Techniques, by Lesley Ann Bestor, $2.99. There is finally, FINALLY, a chill in the air, and that means it is time to start planning cozy inside activities for the winter months. Maybe this is the year your family dabbles with fiber arts. How to Knit is a cheerful, basic guide to all you’ll need to make your first knitting projects. If you want something more substantial, The Knowledgeable Knitter leaves no stitch unturned. Not sure knitting is for you? How to Crochet is also on sale!
Sisters in Law: How Sandra Day O’Connor and Ruth Bader Ginsburg Went to the Supreme Court and Changed the World, by Linda R. Hirshman, $2.99. At first glance, Ginsburg and O’Connor would seem to have little in common. Their backgrounds are different in virtually every particular. It was their career path, and the inherent struggles in trailblazing a path for women in the law, that brought them together and helped them to develop a warm working relationship and friendship. Sisters in Law is a biography of these two remarkable women and their work to improve women’s lives in America.
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.
In a Dark, Dark Room and Other Scary Stories, by Alvin Schwartz, $1.99. Some kids just LOVE to be creeped out, and it’s never too early to get a delightfully spooky book into their hands. This is a collection of scary stories for beginning readers. Turn down the lights and let your child give a haunted story hour. The vibrant and twisted illustrations add to the fun.
Dear Martin, by Nic Stone, $1.99. From our 2017 Fall Book Guide: Teenage Justyce starts a journal writing to Martin Luther King, Jr., after a false arrest has him questioning racism and resistance in his world. When his worst fears are realized in a police shooting, Justyce has to confront the darkest parts of himself and the world he lives in.
Letters of Note, Volume 1, by Shaun Usher, $3.99. Letters can be surprising, meaningful, and just plain odd. Shaun Usher has collected more than 100 interesting letters to share in this volume. You can read a letter from Elvis to President Nixon which Elvis offers to become a Federal Agent. The letters cover a wide time period and topics from politics to art to food. Each letter includes a big of background information, and many include a photo of the letter itself. This is a fun book to dip into over and over again.
Coraline: The Graphic Novel, by Neil Gaiman and P. Craig Russell, $1.99. Coraline is a classic creepy tale about a girl who discovers an alternate version of her reality when she moves to a new house. At first the new house and new family seems like all Coraline has ever wanted, but things are not as they seem. I will never look at a Lalaloopsy doll in the same way having read this book. The realistic drawings increase the creep factor, making it more unsettling than the movie adaptation.
Beatrix Potter’s Gardening Life, by Marta McDowell, $1.99. Beatrix Potter’s stories of sentient animals getting up to mischief have charmed children and parents for generations. Her beautiful watercolor illustrations really bring her characters to life. In this book, McDowell describes the events that shaped Potter’s love of the outdoors, then takes readers on a guided tour of the outdoor settings that are so crucial to Potter’s work. Gorgeous watercolors and photos enhance the reading experience.
Life in a Medieval Castle, by Frances and Joseph Gies, $1.99. Interest in the medieval period had a resurgence in popularity with the rise of Game of Thrones. But you don’t need to be a die-hard dragon fan to appreciate this comprehensive guide to medieval life. The Gieses cover everything from food to heating to knights’ training. The comprehensive index makes it easy to dip in for just the information you need, or you can curl up and dive deep into a world long past.
The Sky Below, by Scott Parazynski and Susy Flory, $0.99. Scott Parazynski’s memoir of the adventures and training that led him to become an astronaut is fascinating. What makes this book thrilling, though, is the Kindle in Motion feature. When you read this book on a Kindle Fire or the Kindle app on another tablet, you will marvel at the embedded video. The pages come to live with views of rockets launching, the earth from space, and more. This is a must have for anyone interested in space flight.
How to Draw Cool Things, by Rachel Goldstein, $2.99. When I was in school, every class had at least one kid who knew how to make cool lettering or designs in the margins of the paper. I felt like it was some kind of magical power. Now your kids can be in on the secrets with this fun guide to drawing optical illusions, 3D doodles, and more. Twelve-year-old me is so jealous.
The Dark Descent of Elizabeth Frankenstein, by Kiersten White, $1.99. Continuing our creepy theme for the day, we have this exciting and unsettling YA retelling of Frankenstein. Elizabeth is a neglected child who is brought into the Frankenstein family as a companion for the troubled Victor. She lives with the Frankensteins for years, her one task being to control Victor’s temper and dark impulses. But what must she do to keep him happy? Teens and adults with enjoy this “exquisitely disturbing” novel. The bonus copy of Mary Shelley’s original novel included in the ebook will make for an excellent comparative literature lesson.
Stopping for a Spell, by Diana Wynne Jones, $2.99. You may know Diana Wynne Jones from her excellent Howl’s Moving Castle and Chrestomanci series. She is a master of immersive fantasy for young readers. Stopping for a Spell is a collection of three shorter stories designed for slightly younger readers. Set in a mostly familiar 20th century England with only a few magical differences, these tales will delight middle grade readers. Furniture comes to life, mysterious grannies come to stay, and more. Charming and detailed illustrations round out an enjoyable reading experience that will be a great introduction to the author’s work for new readers.
Why Do Clocks Run Clockwise?, by David Feldman, $2.99. Do you have that kid who always wants to know the answers to weird questions? Are you the grown-up version of that kid? David Feldman’s Imponderables series is just the thing for you. He answers such questions as “why do dogs circle before lying down?” and “why is a telephone keypad arranged differently from a calculator?” Feldman tracks down experts to get to the bottom of many strange questions. The short sections make this book appealing to casual readers who might not pick up a novel.
The Tale of Despereaux, by Kate DiCamillo, $4.08. This thrilling tale of adventure tells the story of Despereaux, a brave young mouse who takes on an extraordinary quest This moving story will delight readers young and old, though it is somewhat darker than you might expect from the cover art. Beautiful illustrations set the tone.
Kindle Deals for October 20, 2019
From an imaginative delight to the power of perseverance, we have some thought-provoking deals for you today!
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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Emily’s Runaway Imagination, by Beverly Cleary, $4.99. This is a charming but lesser-known middle grade book from beloved children’s author Beverly Cleary. Emily reminds me of Pippi Longstocking without the clearly impossible situations. From the publisher: “Spunky Emily Bartlett lives in an old farmhouse in Pitchfork, Oregon'at a time when automobiles are brand-new inventions and libraries are a luxury few small towns can afford. Her runaway imagination leads her to bleach a horse, hold a very scary sleepover, and feed the hogs an unusual treat. But can she use her lively mind to help bring a library to Pitchfork?”
Every Tool’s a Hammer: Life’s What You Make of It, by Adam Savage, $4.99. My family loves Adam Savage and Mythbusters, so I was excited to discover his new memoir/how-to book. Savage describes his long career in making things, from special effects to science experiments. The book is full of interesting behind-the-scenes stories from the movie industry and Mythbusters. What makes the book really noteworthy, though, are Savage’s helpful and motivational tips on everything from which fasteners to use to how to get over perfectionism.
Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance, by Angela Duckworth, $4.99. This is a bestseller on short-term deal, so snap it up ASAP! It’s not just genius that leads to success; most goals take sustained efffort. In Grit, Angela Duckworth walks us through the science of tenacity to show how we can foster resilience and perseverance in ourselves and our families. The book combines warm personal anecdotes, profiles of people putting in the work, and the latest neuroscience.
STILL ON SALE
Tangled in Time: The Portal, by Kathryn Lasky, $1.99. This charming middle grade novel is a time travel story. Rose finds a time portal in her grandmother’s greenhouse that transports her to the the court of Henry VIII. She befriends the young Princess Elizabeth and discovers a mysterious locket that may hold a secret connecting Rose to the Tudor world.
The Omnivore’s Dilemma, by Michael Pollan, $1.99. The concept of this book is simple — Michael Pollan takes four meals and traces each ingredient back to it’s agricultural origins. Along the way, he discovers much about the business and culture of our modern food landscape. From McDonald’s to Whole Foods and several stops in between, Pollan considers the health and environmental implications of our food choices. There’s also a young reader’s edition if you’d like to include kids in the dinner table discussions.
Dear Data, by Giogia Lupi and Stefanie Posavec, $2.99. This book has a fascinating concept: two friends in different countries sent each other a postcard every week for a year. Every week had a theme, and the two friends recorded data about their lives and created a way to represent it visually. The result is more than 100 postcards illustrating the details of their lives. You’ll find this a great discussion starter about ways to visually represent ideas.
Talking Across the Divide: How to Communicate with People You Disagree with and Maybe Even Change the World, by Justin Lee, $4.99. I run a large homeschool co-op, which puts me in the position to get to know a wide variety of people. Books like Talking Across the Divide in invaluable in the current political climate for helping people find ways to connect.
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 Hero’s Guide to Saving Your Kingdom, by Christopher Healy, $1.99. You think you know the classic fairytale stories, but they are usually centered around the princesses. This fun middle grade series focuses on the princes. After the “happily ever after” the princes discover that their kingdoms are in danger, and they set off take on all kinds of mythical monsters. This fun and funny book is the first in a series that your middle-grade reader will love.
The Mind’s Eye, by Oliver Sacks, $4.99. What would your life be like if you lost a fundamental part of your sensory experience? Neuroscientist Oliver Sacks explores what makes us who we are in this collection of profiles. From the concert pianist who loses the ability to read music to the woman who finds herself unable to speak, Sacks deftly recreates the breadth of human experience.
Cut in Half: The Hidden World of Everyday Objects, by Mike 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.)
Art Before Breakfast: A Zillion Ways to be More Creative No Matter How Busy You Are, by Danny Gregory, $2.99. My daughter loves doing art, and fills lots of her spare time making things. I’ve never considered myself an artist and struggle to find time to develop my skills. This book is a great place to start. Danny Gregory has created short, fun activities that take 10 minutes or less. They will encourage you to make art a regular part of your life. This book is a great way to add some art education to your homeschool, or to carve out a bit of time for your own creativity.
Forensics: What Bugs, Burns, Prints, DNA, and More Tell Us About Crime, by Val McDermid, $1.99. Val McDermid is fascinated by forensics in a way only a mystery writer can be. She has a keen eye for detail, and she can make dry facts seem riveting. You’ll come away from this book much more knowledgeable about the facts of crime investigation (as opposed to some of the technological magic of CSI).
50 Inventions That Shaped the Modern Economy, by Tim Harford, $4.99. I love this kind of book, a history through specific objects. Here’s how the publisher describes it: “Fifty Inventions That Shaped the Modern Economy paints an epic picture of change in an intimate way by telling the stories of the tools, people, and ideas that had far-reaching consequences for all of us. From the plough to artificial intelligence, from Gillette’s disposable razor to IKEA’s Billy bookcase, bestselling author and Financial Times columnist Tim Harford recounts each invention’s own curious, surprising, and memorable story.”
The Physics of Superheroes: Spectacular Second Edition, by James Kakalios, $4.99. Why did Krypton explode? How does Spiderman’s webbing actually work? How do you make a lightweight, bulletproof costume? Kakalios, a physics and astronomy professor, knows his stuff and can explain it with humor and detail. This second edition has three new chapters, so it might be worth a buy even if you’ve already read the first edition.
The Wizards of Once, by Cressida Cowell, $1.99. My family loved the How to Train Your Dragon series, and we are excited to begin another series by Cressida Cowell. Here’s what the publisher says: Once there were Wizards, who were Magic, and Warriors, who were not. But Xar, son of the King of Wizards, can't cast a single spell. And Wish, daughter of the Warrior Queen, has a banned magical object of her own. When they collide in the wildwood, on the trail of a deadly witch, it's the start of a grand adventure that just might change the fabric of their worlds.
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.)
Hamstersaurus Rex, by Tom O’Donnell, $1.99. Is this another creepy book for Halloween? Yes and no. This wild middle school story will entertain and delight while still addressing some tougher emotional issues. From the publisher: “When a mysterious growling hamster appears at the back of his class, Sam knows just what to call him: Hamstersaurus Rex. Sam tries to protect Hammie from an overzealous Hamster Monitor, and from the meanest bully in the history of Horace Hotwater Middle School. The bully isn’t afraid of some weird little class pet. But maybe he should be. Hamstersaurus Rex is no ordinary hamster.”
Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking, by Susan Cain, $2.99. Introverts may be overrepresented in the homeschool world. I was just having a discussion with my daughter about how many social norms are set up by and for extroverted people. This insightful book is a celebration of introverts, an analysis of their role in society, and a guide for ways that introverts can find success. This is an excellent book, whether you are an introvert or want to understand an introvert. There’s also a children’s version that I am looking forward to sharing with my family.
Making the Monster: The Science Behind Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, by Katheryn Harkup, $1.99. Another Halloween-related book for October! From the publisher: Making the Monster explores the scientific background behind Mary Shelley's book. Is there any science fact behind the science fiction? And how might a real-life Victor Frankenstein have gone about creating his monster? From tales of volcanic eruptions, artificial life and chemical revolutions, to experimental surgery, 'monsters' and electrical experiments on human cadavers, Kathryn Harkup examines the science and scientists that influenced Shelley, and inspired her most famous creation.”
Corsets & Codpieces, by Karen Bowman, $1.99. How did 18th century women get their skirts to stick out to far? Why did medieval men accentuate their figure with over the top codpieces? This book explores the history of outrageous fashion. (Note: As you might expect from the title, sex comes up fairly often. This might be a good choice for teens and adults.)
Penny and Her Song, by Kevin Henkes, $4.99. Your beginning reader will love this series about Penny, an adorable and charming young mouse. Penny comes home with a new song that she is so eager to sing! However, her parents beg her to keep quiet while her twin siblings are sleeping. Will Penny ever be able to share her music? This is an excellent book for early readers ready to venture into short chapter books. It was one of my daughter’s favorite’s when she began reading on her own.
You Are Not So Smart, by David McRay, $1.99. We all like to believe that we know why we do the things we do, but what is the reality? David McRay breaks it down for you in the pithy guide to common ways your brain is tricking you. From the Dunning-Kruger Effect to the Straw Man Delusion, McRay patiently guides the reader through modern psychological research. The tone is fairly light, and the real world examples are plentiful. This book is broken down into 48 short sections ideal for quick dipping into for discussion around the dinner table.
American Trailblazers: 50 Remarkable People Who Shaped U.S. History, by Lisa Trusiani, $1.99. Yesterday was full of history deals, but they were all for older readers, so I was glad to find something for my younger historians today. American Trailblazers profiles men and women from many fields who have accomplished impressive things. I was pleased to see racial and gender diversity in the performers, scientists, writers, and other careers mentioned. Cute illustrations make this book inviting, and the lists of related people to investigate will let kids dig deep into their interests.
How to Knit: Learn the Basic Stitches and Techniques, by Lesley Ann Bestor, $2.99. There is finally, FINALLY, a chill in the air, and that means it is time to start planning cozy inside activities for the winter months. Maybe this is the year your family dabbles with fiber arts. How to Knit is a cheerful, basic guide to all you’ll need to make your first knitting projects. If you want something more substantial, The Knowledgeable Knitter leaves no stitch unturned. Not sure knitting is for you? How to Crochet is also on sale!
Sisters in Law: How Sandra Day O’Connor and Ruth Bader Ginsburg Went to the Supreme Court and Changed the World, by Linda R. Hirshman, $2.99. At first glance, Ginsburg and O’Connor would seem to have little in common. Their backgrounds are different in virtually every particular. It was their career path, and the inherent struggles in trailblazing a path for women in the law, that brought them together and helped them to develop a warm working relationship and friendship. Sisters in Law is a biography of these two remarkable women and their work to improve women’s lives in America.
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.
In a Dark, Dark Room and Other Scary Stories, by Alvin Schwartz, $1.99. Some kids just LOVE to be creeped out, and it’s never too early to get a delightfully spooky book into their hands. This is a collection of scary stories for beginning readers. Turn down the lights and let your child give a haunted story hour. The vibrant and twisted illustrations add to the fun.
Dear Martin, by Nic Stone, $1.99. From our 2017 Fall Book Guide: Teenage Justyce starts a journal writing to Martin Luther King, Jr., after a false arrest has him questioning racism and resistance in his world. When his worst fears are realized in a police shooting, Justyce has to confront the darkest parts of himself and the world he lives in.
Letters of Note, Volume 1, by Shaun Usher, $3.99. Letters can be surprising, meaningful, and just plain odd. Shaun Usher has collected more than 100 interesting letters to share in this volume. You can read a letter from Elvis to President Nixon which Elvis offers to become a Federal Agent. The letters cover a wide time period and topics from politics to art to food. Each letter includes a big of background information, and many include a photo of the letter itself. This is a fun book to dip into over and over again.
Coraline: The Graphic Novel, by Neil Gaiman and P. Craig Russell, $1.99. Coraline is a classic creepy tale about a girl who discovers an alternate version of her reality when she moves to a new house. At first the new house and new family seems like all Coraline has ever wanted, but things are not as they seem. I will never look at a Lalaloopsy doll in the same way having read this book. The realistic drawings increase the creep factor, making it more unsettling than the movie adaptation.
Beatrix Potter’s Gardening Life, by Marta McDowell, $1.99. Beatrix Potter’s stories of sentient animals getting up to mischief have charmed children and parents for generations. Her beautiful watercolor illustrations really bring her characters to life. In this book, McDowell describes the events that shaped Potter’s love of the outdoors, then takes readers on a guided tour of the outdoor settings that are so crucial to Potter’s work. Gorgeous watercolors and photos enhance the reading experience.
Life in a Medieval Castle, by Frances and Joseph Gies, $1.99. Interest in the medieval period had a resurgence in popularity with the rise of Game of Thrones. But you don’t need to be a die-hard dragon fan to appreciate this comprehensive guide to medieval life. The Gieses cover everything from food to heating to knights’ training. The comprehensive index makes it easy to dip in for just the information you need, or you can curl up and dive deep into a world long past.
The Sky Below, by Scott Parazynski and Susy Flory, $0.99. Scott Parazynski’s memoir of the adventures and training that led him to become an astronaut is fascinating. What makes this book thrilling, though, is the Kindle in Motion feature. When you read this book on a Kindle Fire or the Kindle app on another tablet, you will marvel at the embedded video. The pages come to live with views of rockets launching, the earth from space, and more. This is a must have for anyone interested in space flight.
How to Draw Cool Things, by Rachel Goldstein, $2.99. When I was in school, every class had at least one kid who knew how to make cool lettering or designs in the margins of the paper. I felt like it was some kind of magical power. Now your kids can be in on the secrets with this fun guide to drawing optical illusions, 3D doodles, and more. Twelve-year-old me is so jealous.
The Dark Descent of Elizabeth Frankenstein, by Kiersten White, $1.99. Continuing our creepy theme for the day, we have this exciting and unsettling YA retelling of Frankenstein. Elizabeth is a neglected child who is brought into the Frankenstein family as a companion for the troubled Victor. She lives with the Frankensteins for years, her one task being to control Victor’s temper and dark impulses. But what must she do to keep him happy? Teens and adults with enjoy this “exquisitely disturbing” novel. The bonus copy of Mary Shelley’s original novel included in the ebook will make for an excellent comparative literature lesson.
Stopping for a Spell, by Diana Wynne Jones, $2.99. You may know Diana Wynne Jones from her excellent Howl’s Moving Castle and Chrestomanci series. She is a master of immersive fantasy for young readers. Stopping for a Spell is a collection of three shorter stories designed for slightly younger readers. Set in a mostly familiar 20th century England with only a few magical differences, these tales will delight middle grade readers. Furniture comes to life, mysterious grannies come to stay, and more. Charming and detailed illustrations round out an enjoyable reading experience that will be a great introduction to the author’s work for new readers.
Why Do Clocks Run Clockwise?, by David Feldman, $2.99. Do you have that kid who always wants to know the answers to weird questions? Are you the grown-up version of that kid? David Feldman’s Imponderables series is just the thing for you. He answers such questions as “why do dogs circle before lying down?” and “why is a telephone keypad arranged differently from a calculator?” Feldman tracks down experts to get to the bottom of many strange questions. The short sections make this book appealing to casual readers who might not pick up a novel.
The Tale of Despereaux, by Kate DiCamillo, $4.08. This thrilling tale of adventure tells the story of Despereaux, a brave young mouse who takes on an extraordinary quest This moving story will delight readers young and old, though it is somewhat darker than you might expect from the cover art. Beautiful illustrations set the tone.