Kindle Deals for March 10, 2020
Today’s books are about women who break the mold.
Today's Best Book Deals for Your Homeschool
(Prices are correct as of the time of writing, but y'all know sales move fast — check before you click the buy button! These are Amazon links — read more about how we use affiliate links to help support some of the costs of the HSL blog here.)
Never miss a deal! Sign up for an email notification every time we post here.
The Radium Girls: The Dark Story of America’s Shining Women, by Kate Moore, $2.99. History is a strange place. This is the true story of women who worked in factories handling radium, which was used to make watch faces glow. Women flocked to these cutting-edge jobs, until workers started getting sick with mysterious illnesses. The Radium Girls charts their rise, declining health, and persistent battle to improve workers’ rights.
Rise of the Rocket Girls: The Women Who Propelled Us, from Missile to the Moon to Mars, by Nathalia Holt, $2.99. Amy reviewed this one a few years ago: “The original computers weren't machines, they were people—specifically women who, armed with slide rules and sharpened pencils, performed the complex calculations needed to get the space program (literally) off the ground. This book shines a long overdue spotlight on the women scientists and mathematicians who contributed to the early work of the space program, and it's a great read on its own or as part of a larger study with The Glass Universe and Hidden Figures.”
The Witch of Blackbird Pond, by Elizabeth George Speare, $2.99. Round out your reading list with this Newberry winner about a fierce 16 year old who must find her way in a new land — 1687 Connecticut. Kit grew up in Barbados but now must adjust to living with unfamiliar relatives and under Puritan social norms. Kit uniqueness and nonconformity lead to the suspicion that she is a witch, and she soon finds herself in great danger. This is an exciting adjunct to an early American history unit, or a great book to read just for fun.
STILL ON SALE
Visionary Women: How Rachel Carson, Jane Jacobs, Jane Goodall, and Alice Waters Changed Our World, by Andrea Barnet, $1.99. This award-winning book introduces readers to four women who shaped the modern environmental movement in very different ways. Carson and Goodall focused on the relationships between humans and creatures of earth and sea, while Jacobs and Waters shaped urban planning and food ways. What they all share is a willingness to reconsider the status quo and fight for what matters.
The Radical Element: 12 Stories of Daredevils, Debutantes, and Other Dauntless Girls, edited by Jessica Spotswood, $1.99. This fun collection of short stories from YA authors is united by a shared theme: girls standing up for themselves throughout American history. Readers will enjoy traveling to different eras and meeting characters from many ethnicities, sexual orientations, and socioeconomic statuses.
Character Design From the Ground Up: Make Your Sketches Come to Life, by Kevin Crossley, $3.99. Are you or your child fascinated by the characters in comic books, movies, or video games? Would you like to know how they are developed, and how you can create fully fledged characters of your own? Illustrator Kevin Crossley has created a comprehensive guide to the production process, from first sketch to 3D rendering to final product. This is not a “how to draw” book; it assumes you already have ideas and a style of your own. Rather, it walks you through how to refine your work, add detail, and create something that looks professional. The many illustrations in varied drawing styles will provide creative inspiration.
Galaxy Girls: 50 Amazing Stories of Women in Space, by Libby Jackson, $1.99. This collection of short biographies will introduce you to the accomplishments of women who looked up with wonder and determination. From the publisher: “From Ada Lovelace in the nineteenth century to the “colored computers” behind the Apollo missions, from the astronauts breaking records on the International Space Station to the scientific pioneers blazing the way to Mars, Galaxy Girls goes boldly where few books have gone before, celebrating this band of heroic sisters and their remarkable and often little known scientific achievements. Written by Libby Jackson, a leading British expert in human space flight, and illustrated with striking artwork from the students of London College of Communication, Galaxy Girls will fire the imaginations of trailblazers of all ages.”
Signs of Resistance: A Visual History of Protest in America, by Bonnie Siegler, $1.99. Protest and dissent are the constant companions of civilization. Bonnie Siegler has created a fascinating history of protest from America’s earliest days to modern times. This book is a look at both the issues that have motivated protest and the techniques that protesters have used to express themselves. There are more than 200 images, each with a short description. This book isn’t a comprehensive history, but it is a great visual resource and a jumping off point for more in-depth explorations.
Because I was a Girl: True Stories for Girls of All Ages, edited by Melissa De La Cruz, $2.99. This collection of stories from girls and women who have faced obstacles because of their gender. The stories are arranged chronologically, making it easy to see how societal expectations and opportunities have changed over time. You’ll meet interesting women from many different fields — astronauts, writers, military members, religious professionals, and more.
The Secret History of the Mongol Queens: How the Daughters of Genghis Khan Rescued His Empire, by Jack Weatherford, $1.99. Our first Women’s History Month pick! You’ve probably heard of Genghis Khan and his massive empire, but do you know what happened after his conquest? Here’s what the publisher says: “The Mongol queens of the thirteenth century ruled the largest empire the world has ever known. The daughters of the Silk Route turned their father’s conquests into the first truly international empire, fostering trade, education, and religion throughout their territories and creating an economic system that stretched from the Pacific to the Mediterranean. Yet sometime near the end of the century, censors cut a section about the queens from the Secret History of the Mongols, and, with that one act, the dynasty of these royals had seemingly been extinguished forever, as even their names were erased from the historical record. With The Secret History of the Mongol Queens, a groundbreaking and magnificently researched narrative, Jack Weatherford restores the queens’ missing chapter to the annals of history.”
Grammar Girl Presents The Ultimate Writing Guide for Students, by Mignon Fogarty, $3.99. Grammar Girl was one of the first podcasts I ever listened to, and I’ve enjoyed Mignon Fogarty for more than a decade. This book is a compilation of her helpful grammar advice written for middle- and high-school students. She covers everything from parts of speech to frequently misused words to guidelines for letter writing.
Legend, by Marie Lu, $1.99. Looking for a YA dystopian novel? This fast-paced novel told in alternating perspectives will keep you turning the pages. I enjoyed this one and read it all in a day because I couldn’t put it down. It’s the first in a trilogy that is now complete, so you’ll be able to dive deeply into this environment. Here’s the publisher’s summary: “What was once the western United States is now home to the Republic, a nation perpetually at war with its neighbors. Born into an elite family in one of the Republic's wealthiest districts, fifteen-year-old June is a prodigy being groomed for success in the Republic's highest military circles. Born into the slums, fifteen-year-old Day is the country's most wanted criminal. But his motives may not be as malicious as they seem. From very different worlds, June and Day have no reason to cross paths - until the day June's brother, Metias, is murdered and Day becomes the prime suspect. Caught in the ultimate game of cat and mouse, Day is in a race for his family's survival, while June seeks to avenge Metias's death. But in a shocking turn of events, the two uncover the truth of what has really brought them together, and the sinister lengths their country will go to keep its secrets.”
Invisible Women: Data Bias in a World Designed for Men, by Caroline Criado Perez, $2.99. Without a doubt, this is the most important book I read in 2019. Even in the 21st Century, most researchers do not collect data on women, or they average the data of women and men. This means that car safety features, medications, and even urban planning fail to adequately meet women’s needs. This book is fascinating and, frankly, infuriating. This is a must read.
Pocket Companion to Narnia: A Magical Guide to the World of C.S. Lewis, by Paul F. Ford, $4.99. The world of Narnia spans many generations and dozens of characters. This small volume offers an alphabetical listing of places, people, events, and more. The handy reference will help the both Narnia-lovers and newbies to keep all the details straight.
A Friend for Henry, by Jenn Bailey, $1.99. Henry sees the world a bit differently from many kids, and he worries about making friends. This sweet picture book about new beginnings never mentions autism by name in the text, though Henry’s thought patterns and sensory sensitivities fit that description. Share this book with the small people in your life.
Math Magic: How to Master Everyday Math Problems, by Scott Flansburg, $1.99. Is there someone in your life who is a little math-phobic? This book may help by offering a fresh perspective and some tricks for making calculations easier. Topics include addition, fractions, multiplication, cube roots, tax and tips, and even a little bit of algebra. The tone is geared toward older kids and adults who need a confidence boost.
Front Desk, by Kelly Yang, $4.99. My daughter and I loved this book so much. When 10-year-old Mia’s family takes a job managing a motel, they quickly discover that the owner expects lots of work for very little pay. Determined to take some of the burden off of her parents, Mia takes on front desk duty when she comes home from school. Soon, Mia is keeping lots of secrets — the needy immigrants that her parents are hiding in unused hotel rooms, the reasons she can’t hang out with friends after school, and even her secret dream of becoming a writer. Grab this one now! The sequel is coming out later this year.
Well-Read Black Girl, by Glory Edim, $4.99. This anthology looks awesome. From the publisher: “Remember that moment when you first encountered a character who seemed to be written just for you? That feeling of belonging remains with readers the rest of their lives—but not everyone regularly sees themselves in the pages of a book. In this timely anthology, Glory Edim brings together original essays by some of our best black women writers to shine a light on how important it is that we all—regardless of gender, race, religion, or ability—have the opportunity to find ourselves in literature.”
Foundations of Comic Book Art: Fundamental Tool and Techniques for Sequential Artists, by John Paul Lowe, $4.99. If you or your child has been looking for a truly in-depth guide to comic book creation, this is the text you need. Lowe covers all the steps in the creation process, from sketching to storyboarding to digitizing with copious illustrations and examples.
The Brave Learner, by Julie Bogart, $4.99. It’s rare to find a deal on a book about homeschooling, particularly a book that I actually love. Julie Bogart is the encouraging mentor and friend every homeschooling parent needs. In The Brave Learner, Bogart expands the principles of her Brave Writer language arts program to offer suggestions for creating a joyful and child-centered homeschooling life in all subjects. Let Julie inspire you to bring enchantment into your education.
Get Up, Stand Up, by Bob Marley and Cedella Marley, $1.99. This beautiful picture book combines the words of Bob Marley’s classic song with lovely illustrations that tell a story of bullying and friendship. Though intended for the very young, this book would be a great book to get older kids talking about the power of music or the ways pictures can tell a story.
The Periodic Table: A Field Guide to the Elements, by Paul Parsons and Gail Dixon, $3.99. This vibrant and careful guide to all the elements in the periodic table will intrigue budding chemists and anyone who wants to understand how things work. Lots of vivid illustrations of the elements in their various forms round out the dense but accessible text.
Josephine: The Dazzling Life of Josephine Baker, by Patricia Hruby Powell and Christian Robinson, $1.99. This lovely children’s biography of Josephine Baker covers both her performance career and her civil rights work. It is written in a jazz-style poetry that calls to mind the 1920s. The simple, vivid illustrations won the Coretta Scott King Honor distinction.
Science in Seconds: 200 Key Concepts Explained in an Instant, by Hazel Muir, $1.99. This illustrated guide to scientific concepts explains everything from thermodynamics to the Doppler effect. It’s an excellent resource for when you need a refresher or a way to answer a homework question.
Binti, by Nnedi Okorafor, $1.99. This sci-fi novella introduces an exciting new universe. Binti, a Himba tribeswoman, is the first of her people to gain admission to a galactic university. Against her family’s wishes, she leaves her desert home to pursue higher education. A disaster on her transport ship has profound impacts on Binti’s future. This book is beautifully written and a whirlwind of activity. It’s short, but it packs a punch.
How to Draw Fantasy Art and RPG Maps: Step by Step Cartography for Gamers and Fans, by Jared Blando, $4.99. I’m a big fan of meeting kids where they are to sneak in some meaningful learning. In creating a fantasy world and building an accurate map, budding cartographers will have a crash course in geography. The book offers good starting points for discussion of geographic features, cities and transportation, political history, and heraldry. The excellent and varied illustrations break the complex process into manageable steps.
Enlightenment Now, by Steven Pinker, $1.99. This is a great deal on a massive, informative book, so snap it up! It is very easy to get stuck in thinking about all of the problems and disasters facing the modern world. Pinker uses meticulous sociological research to show that human conditions have been steadily improving since the Enlightenment. Far from resting on laurels, Pinker encourages readers to continue embracing reason and science to defend the world against the ever-encroaching tribalism, demagoguery, and fatalism that also seem to be a persistent part of human nature.
A Crazy-Much Love, by Joy Jordan-Lake, $1.99. This sweet picture book tells the story of an international adoption and many milestones that follow in a young girl’s family.
George, by Alex Gino, $3.99. George may look like a boy, but she knows she is really a girl. Determined to win the role of Charlotte in her school play of Charlotte’s Web, she sets out to make sure everyone else can see her the way she sees herself. Books that address the experiences of transgender tweens are rare, and this one does it well, so snag it for your middle-grade reader.
Challenge Accepted! 253 Steps to Becoming an Anti-It Girl, by Celeste Barber, $1.99. You may have seen Australian actor and comedian Celeste Barber’s hilarious Instagram photos attempting to copy ridiculous celebrity poses. If you’re interested in her take on childbirth, what it’s like to share so much of her life on the internet, body image, and more, this book is a breezy, laugh-out-loud read. Note: If you are squeamish about crude language, this may not be the book for you.
The Blue Sword, by Robin McKinley, $1.99. From our Adventure and Suspense reading list: Orphaned girl Harry Crewe is living a perfectly ordinary life — until the day she is kidnapped by the king of the Hillfolk to fulfill a destiny she never imagined. Is Harry really a true warrior who can wield the legendary blue sword? And even if she is, will she believe in herself enough to seize her fate?
Waiting, by Kevin Henkes, $1.99. This sweet picture book captures the emotional essence of childhood. Five toys sit by a window, each waiting for something different to happen. Simple, but resonant text and warm illustrations make this a delightful read.
The Stuff of Thought: Language as a Window into Human Nature, by Steven Pinker, $4.99. This book is fascinating and long. I bought it when I couldn’t finish my library copy in time (and I wanted to be able to refer to it again). Word nerds and anthropology fans will love this genre mashup. Find out what the words people use for swearing, humor, and metaphor say about us as human beings.
Inside Out and Back Again, by Thanhha Lai, $1.99. From our big immigration stories reading list (winter 2017): “When Hà’s family flees Vietnam to escape the war there, she finds it difficult to adjust to a very different kind of life in Alabama. Told in spare, simple verse, this book packs an emotional wallop and allows kids to slip inside the first person experience of being a stranger in a strange land.”
Kindle Deals for March 9, 2020
Today’s books are about finding ways to stand up and stand out. We have a biography of remarkable women, a collection of short stories about girls who fight for their rights, and a guide to creating amazing characters.
Today's Best Book Deals for Your Homeschool
(Prices are correct as of the time of writing, but y'all know sales move fast — check before you click the buy button! These are Amazon links — read more about how we use affiliate links to help support some of the costs of the HSL blog here.)
Never miss a deal! Sign up for an email notification every time we post here.
Visionary Women: How Rachel Carson, Jane Jacobs, Jane Goodall, and Alice Waters Changed Our World, by Andrea Barnet, $1.99. This award-winning book introduces readers to four women who shaped the modern environmental movement in very different ways. Carson and Goodall focused on the relationships between humans and creatures of earth and sea, while Jacobs and Waters shaped urban planning and food ways. What they all share is a willingness to reconsider the status quo and fight for what matters.
The Radical Element: 12 Stories of Daredevils, Debutantes, and Other Dauntless Girls, edited by Jessica Spotswood, $1.99. This fun collection of short stories from YA authors is united by a shared theme: girls standing up for themselves throughout American history. Readers will enjoy traveling to different eras and meeting characters from many ethnicities, sexual orientations, and socioeconomic statuses.
Character Design From the Ground Up: Make Your Sketches Come to Life, by Kevin Crossley, $3.99. Are you or your child fascinated by the characters in comic books, movies, or video games? Would you like to know how they are developed, and how you can create fully fledged characters of your own? Illustrator Kevin Crossley has created a comprehensive guide to the production process, from first sketch to 3D rendering to final product. This is not a “how to draw” book; it assumes you already have ideas and a style of your own. Rather, it walks you through how to refine your work, add detail, and create something that looks professional. The many illustrations in varied drawing styles will provide creative inspiration.
STILL ON SALE
Born a Crime: Stories from a South African Childhood, by Trevor Noah, $2.99. Suzanne’s got our middle schoolers reading some of this as part of their African literature section. From The New York Times review: “By turns alarming, sad and funny, [Trevor Noah’s] book provides a harrowing look, through the prism of Mr. Noah’s family, at life in South Africa under apartheid. . . . Born a Crime is not just an unnerving account of growing up in South Africa under apartheid, but a love letter to the author’s remarkable mother.”
Galaxy Girls: 50 Amazing Stories of Women in Space, by Libby Jackson, $1.99. This collection of short biographies will introduce you to the accomplishments of women who looked up with wonder and determination. From the publisher: “From Ada Lovelace in the nineteenth century to the “colored computers” behind the Apollo missions, from the astronauts breaking records on the International Space Station to the scientific pioneers blazing the way to Mars, Galaxy Girls goes boldly where few books have gone before, celebrating this band of heroic sisters and their remarkable and often little known scientific achievements. Written by Libby Jackson, a leading British expert in human space flight, and illustrated with striking artwork from the students of London College of Communication, Galaxy Girls will fire the imaginations of trailblazers of all ages.”
Signs of Resistance: A Visual History of Protest in America, by Bonnie Siegler, $1.99. Protest and dissent are the constant companions of civilization. Bonnie Siegler has created a fascinating history of protest from America’s earliest days to modern times. This book is a look at both the issues that have motivated protest and the techniques that protesters have used to express themselves. There are more than 200 images, each with a short description. This book isn’t a comprehensive history, but it is a great visual resource and a jumping off point for more in-depth explorations.
Because I was a Girl: True Stories for Girls of All Ages, edited by Melissa De La Cruz, $2.99. This collection of stories from girls and women who have faced obstacles because of their gender. The stories are arranged chronologically, making it easy to see how societal expectations and opportunities have changed over time. You’ll meet interesting women from many different fields — astronauts, writers, military members, religious professionals, and more.
Emperors of the Deep: Sharks — The Ocean’s Most Mysterious, Most Misunderstood, and Most Important Guardians, by William McKeever, $1.99. McKeever is determined to clear up misconceptions and dispel fear about sharks. He goes into great detail about tiger, hammerhead, mako, and great white sharks. This book is part scientific exploration, part plea for conservation of this misunderstood creature.
Make & Mend: Sashiko-Inspired Embroidery Projects to Customize and Repair Textiles and Decorate Your Home, by Jessica Marquez, $1.99. Japan has a lovely culture of visible mending and textile reuse. Marquez has created this guide in an attempt to make these techniques accessible to American crafters. Beginners can jump in with confidence. The projects include original embroidery as well as decorative repairs, and all instructions have extensive color illustrations.
The Secret History of the Mongol Queens: How the Daughters of Genghis Khan Rescued His Empire, by Jack Weatherford, $1.99. Our first Women’s History Month pick! You’ve probably heard of Genghis Khan and his massive empire, but do you know what happened after his conquest? Here’s what the publisher says: “The Mongol queens of the thirteenth century ruled the largest empire the world has ever known. The daughters of the Silk Route turned their father’s conquests into the first truly international empire, fostering trade, education, and religion throughout their territories and creating an economic system that stretched from the Pacific to the Mediterranean. Yet sometime near the end of the century, censors cut a section about the queens from the Secret History of the Mongols, and, with that one act, the dynasty of these royals had seemingly been extinguished forever, as even their names were erased from the historical record. With The Secret History of the Mongol Queens, a groundbreaking and magnificently researched narrative, Jack Weatherford restores the queens’ missing chapter to the annals of history.”
Grammar Girl Presents The Ultimate Writing Guide for Students, by Mignon Fogarty, $3.99. Grammar Girl was one of the first podcasts I ever listened to, and I’ve enjoyed Mignon Fogarty for more than a decade. This book is a compilation of her helpful grammar advice written for middle- and high-school students. She covers everything from parts of speech to frequently misused words to guidelines for letter writing.
Legend, by Marie Lu, $1.99. Looking for a YA dystopian novel? This fast-paced novel told in alternating perspectives will keep you turning the pages. I enjoyed this one and read it all in a day because I couldn’t put it down. It’s the first in a trilogy that is now complete, so you’ll be able to dive deeply into this environment. Here’s the publisher’s summary: “What was once the western United States is now home to the Republic, a nation perpetually at war with its neighbors. Born into an elite family in one of the Republic's wealthiest districts, fifteen-year-old June is a prodigy being groomed for success in the Republic's highest military circles. Born into the slums, fifteen-year-old Day is the country's most wanted criminal. But his motives may not be as malicious as they seem. From very different worlds, June and Day have no reason to cross paths - until the day June's brother, Metias, is murdered and Day becomes the prime suspect. Caught in the ultimate game of cat and mouse, Day is in a race for his family's survival, while June seeks to avenge Metias's death. But in a shocking turn of events, the two uncover the truth of what has really brought them together, and the sinister lengths their country will go to keep its secrets.”
Invisible Women: Data Bias in a World Designed for Men, by Caroline Criado Perez, $2.99. Without a doubt, this is the most important book I read in 2019. Even in the 21st Century, most researchers do not collect data on women, or they average the data of women and men. This means that car safety features, medications, and even urban planning fail to adequately meet women’s needs. This book is fascinating and, frankly, infuriating. This is a must read.
El Deafo, by CeCe Bell, $2.99. Being different isn't always easy. When Cece Bell loses her hearing, she has to learn how to navigate the world in all new ways, including wearing a cutting-edge 1970s hearing aid and figuring out how to make friends when she can't always hear what people are saying—or when she hears too much. Cece is a likable, friendly character, and her story—part memoir, part graphic novel—is one that almost every middle schooler can relate to. This is one of the graphic novels designed specifically for the Kindle, so you don't have to worry about weird formatting issues.
Pocket Companion to Narnia: A Magical Guide to the World of C.S. Lewis, by Paul F. Ford, $4.99. The world of Narnia spans many generations and dozens of characters. This small volume offers an alphabetical listing of places, people, events, and more. The handy reference will help the both Narnia-lovers and newbies to keep all the details straight.
A Friend for Henry, by Jenn Bailey, $1.99. Henry sees the world a bit differently from many kids, and he worries about making friends. This sweet picture book about new beginnings never mentions autism by name in the text, though Henry’s thought patterns and sensory sensitivities fit that description. Share this book with the small people in your life.
Math Magic: How to Master Everyday Math Problems, by Scott Flansburg, $1.99. Is there someone in your life who is a little math-phobic? This book may help by offering a fresh perspective and some tricks for making calculations easier. Topics include addition, fractions, multiplication, cube roots, tax and tips, and even a little bit of algebra. The tone is geared toward older kids and adults who need a confidence boost.
Front Desk, by Kelly Yang, $4.99. My daughter and I loved this book so much. When 10-year-old Mia’s family takes a job managing a motel, they quickly discover that the owner expects lots of work for very little pay. Determined to take some of the burden off of her parents, Mia takes on front desk duty when she comes home from school. Soon, Mia is keeping lots of secrets — the needy immigrants that her parents are hiding in unused hotel rooms, the reasons she can’t hang out with friends after school, and even her secret dream of becoming a writer. Grab this one now! The sequel is coming out later this year.
Well-Read Black Girl, by Glory Edim, $4.99. This anthology looks awesome. From the publisher: “Remember that moment when you first encountered a character who seemed to be written just for you? That feeling of belonging remains with readers the rest of their lives—but not everyone regularly sees themselves in the pages of a book. In this timely anthology, Glory Edim brings together original essays by some of our best black women writers to shine a light on how important it is that we all—regardless of gender, race, religion, or ability—have the opportunity to find ourselves in literature.”
How Plants Work: The Science Behind the Amazing Things Plants Do, by Linda Chalker-Scott, $1.99. This book is designed for gardeners, but it is full of interesting information even if you have more of a black thumb than a green one. Chalker-Scott is an expert in plant physiology, and instead of just giving gardening advice (when to plant, where to prune, etc.), she uses her knowledge to explain why each practice matters.
Foundations of Comic Book Art: Fundamental Tool and Techniques for Sequential Artists, by John Paul Lowe, $4.99. If you or your child has been looking for a truly in-depth guide to comic book creation, this is the text you need. Lowe covers all the steps in the creation process, from sketching to storyboarding to digitizing with copious illustrations and examples.
The Brave Learner, by Julie Bogart, $4.99. It’s rare to find a deal on a book about homeschooling, particularly a book that I actually love. Julie Bogart is the encouraging mentor and friend every homeschooling parent needs. In The Brave Learner, Bogart expands the principles of her Brave Writer language arts program to offer suggestions for creating a joyful and child-centered homeschooling life in all subjects. Let Julie inspire you to bring enchantment into your education.
Get Up, Stand Up, by Bob Marley and Cedella Marley, $1.99. This beautiful picture book combines the words of Bob Marley’s classic song with lovely illustrations that tell a story of bullying and friendship. Though intended for the very young, this book would be a great book to get older kids talking about the power of music or the ways pictures can tell a story.
Unseen: Unpublished Black History from The New York Times Photo Archives, by Dana Canedy, Damien Cave, Rachel L. Swarns, and Darcy Eveleigh, $3.99. News is being made all around us, but not every story makes it into the printed record of history. New York Times photo editor Darcy Eveleigh discovered dozens of unprinted photos in the newspaper’s archives. With the help of her colleagues, Eveleigh researched the context of these photos and brought new stories to light. You’ll find unseen sides of familiar faces and entirely new tales from history.
The Periodic Table: A Field Guide to the Elements, by Paul Parsons and Gail Dixon, $3.99. This vibrant and careful guide to all the elements in the periodic table will intrigue budding chemists and anyone who wants to understand how things work. Lots of vivid illustrations of the elements in their various forms round out the dense but accessible text.
Josephine: The Dazzling Life of Josephine Baker, by Patricia Hruby Powell and Christian Robinson, $1.99. This lovely children’s biography of Josephine Baker covers both her performance career and her civil rights work. It is written in a jazz-style poetry that calls to mind the 1920s. The simple, vivid illustrations won the Coretta Scott King Honor distinction.
Science in Seconds: 200 Key Concepts Explained in an Instant, by Hazel Muir, $1.99. This illustrated guide to scientific concepts explains everything from thermodynamics to the Doppler effect. It’s an excellent resource for when you need a refresher or a way to answer a homework question.
In Progress: Seeing Inside a Lettering Artist’s Sketchbook and Process, from Pencil to Vector, by Jessica Hische, $2.99. I love to learn about how things are made, and this peek into a lettering artist’s work process is really fascinating to me. This is a great introduction to the terminology, tools, and business of lettering. You’ll enjoy this look behind the scenes even if you, like me, have no talent for fancy handwriting.
Super Graphic: A Visual Guide to the Comic Book Universe, by Tim Leong, $1.99. If you love comic books, this is the book for you. If you know very little about superheroes but enjoy infographics, this is also the book for you. Tim Leong breaks down the world of superheroes and supervillians by color, geographic area, height, weight, and more.
Binti, by Nnedi Okorafor, $1.99. This sci-fi novella introduces an exciting new universe. Binti, a Himba tribeswoman, is the first of her people to gain admission to a galactic university. Against her family’s wishes, she leaves her desert home to pursue higher education. A disaster on her transport ship has profound impacts on Binti’s future. This book is beautifully written and a whirlwind of activity. It’s short, but it packs a punch.
How to Draw Fantasy Art and RPG Maps: Step by Step Cartography for Gamers and Fans, by Jared Blando, $4.99. I’m a big fan of meeting kids where they are to sneak in some meaningful learning. In creating a fantasy world and building an accurate map, budding cartographers will have a crash course in geography. The book offers good starting points for discussion of geographic features, cities and transportation, political history, and heraldry. The excellent and varied illustrations break the complex process into manageable steps.
Enlightenment Now, by Steven Pinker, $1.99. This is a great deal on a massive, informative book, so snap it up! It is very easy to get stuck in thinking about all of the problems and disasters facing the modern world. Pinker uses meticulous sociological research to show that human conditions have been steadily improving since the Enlightenment. Far from resting on laurels, Pinker encourages readers to continue embracing reason and science to defend the world against the ever-encroaching tribalism, demagoguery, and fatalism that also seem to be a persistent part of human nature.
A Crazy-Much Love, by Joy Jordan-Lake, $1.99. This sweet picture book tells the story of an international adoption and many milestones that follow in a young girl’s family.
George, by Alex Gino, $3.99. George may look like a boy, but she knows she is really a girl. Determined to win the role of Charlotte in her school play of Charlotte’s Web, she sets out to make sure everyone else can see her the way she sees herself. Books that address the experiences of transgender tweens are rare, and this one does it well, so snag it for your middle-grade reader.
Challenge Accepted! 253 Steps to Becoming an Anti-It Girl, by Celeste Barber, $1.99. You may have seen Australian actor and comedian Celeste Barber’s hilarious Instagram photos attempting to copy ridiculous celebrity poses. If you’re interested in her take on childbirth, what it’s like to share so much of her life on the internet, body image, and more, this book is a breezy, laugh-out-loud read. Note: If you are squeamish about crude language, this may not be the book for you.
The Blue Sword, by Robin McKinley, $1.99. From our Adventure and Suspense reading list: Orphaned girl Harry Crewe is living a perfectly ordinary life — until the day she is kidnapped by the king of the Hillfolk to fulfill a destiny she never imagined. Is Harry really a true warrior who can wield the legendary blue sword? And even if she is, will she believe in herself enough to seize her fate?
Waiting, by Kevin Henkes, $1.99. This sweet picture book captures the emotional essence of childhood. Five toys sit by a window, each waiting for something different to happen. Simple, but resonant text and warm illustrations make this a delightful read.
The Stuff of Thought: Language as a Window into Human Nature, by Steven Pinker, $4.99. This book is fascinating and long. I bought it when I couldn’t finish my library copy in time (and I wanted to be able to refer to it again). Word nerds and anthropology fans will love this genre mashup. Find out what the words people use for swearing, humor, and metaphor say about us as human beings.
From the Corner of the Oval, by Beck Dorey-Stein, $4.99. This dishy political memoir describes the Obama White House from an unusual perspective, that of one of his twenty-something stenographers. Dorey-Stein came to the job with no political experience and got thrown into the deep end. The New York Times called this “Bridget Jones goes to the White House” — how can you pass that up?
Inside Out and Back Again, by Thanhha Lai, $1.99. From our big immigration stories reading list (winter 2017): “When Hà’s family flees Vietnam to escape the war there, she finds it difficult to adjust to a very different kind of life in Alabama. Told in spare, simple verse, this book packs an emotional wallop and allows kids to slip inside the first person experience of being a stranger in a strange land.”
This Book is Grey, by Lindsay Ward, $1.99. The other colors aren’t always friendly to Grey, and he just wants to fit in. He decides to make his own book of awesome things that are grey (hippos, clouds, kittens, etc.), but the other colors are not so enthusiastic. This is a story about fitting in, being true to yourself, and a little bit of color theory.
Kindle Deals for March 8, 2020
Today’s books all address racial and social inequality — apartheid in South Africa, economic inequality in Pakistan, and racism in the American legal system.
Today's Best Book Deals for Your Homeschool
(Prices are correct as of the time of writing, but y'all know sales move fast — check before you click the buy button! These are Amazon links — read more about how we use affiliate links to help support some of the costs of the HSL blog here.)
Never miss a deal! Sign up for an email notification every time we post here.
Born a Crime: Stories from a South African Childhood, by Trevor Noah, $2.99. Suzanne’s got our middle schoolers reading some of this as part of their African literature section. From The New York Times review: “By turns alarming, sad and funny, [Trevor Noah’s] book provides a harrowing look, through the prism of Mr. Noah’s family, at life in South Africa under apartheid. . . . Born a Crime is not just an unnerving account of growing up in South Africa under apartheid, but a love letter to the author’s remarkable mother.”
Amal Unbound, by Aisha Saeed, $1.99. I’ve read great things about this moving middle-grade book. Here’s the publisher’s description: “Life is quiet and ordinary in Amal's Pakistani village, but she had no complaints, and besides, she's busy pursuing her dream of becoming a teacher one day. Her dreams are temporarily dashed when--as the eldest daughter--she must stay home from school to take care of her siblings. Amal is upset, but she doesn't lose hope and finds ways to continue learning. Then the unimaginable happens--after an accidental run-in with the son of her village's corrupt landlord, Amal must work as his family's servant to pay off her own family's debt. Life at the opulent Khan estate is full of heartbreak and struggle for Amal--especially when she inadvertently makes an enemy of a girl named Nabila. Most troubling, though, is Amal's growing awareness of the Khans' nefarious dealings. When it becomes clear just how far they will go to protect their interests, Amal realizes she will have to find a way to work with others if they are ever to exact change in a cruel status quo, and if Amal is ever to achieve her dreams.”
Just Mercy (Adapted for Young Adults): A True Story of the Fight for Justice, by Bryan Stevenson, $1.99. This award-winning book about racial injustice in the judicial system and a lawyer’s work to protect vulnerable individuals has been adapted for younger readers. Share this book with your teens (approximately 12+) as part of a discussion of racism, legal processes, and advocacy.
STILL ON SALE
Galaxy Girls: 50 Amazing Stories of Women in Space, by Libby Jackson, $1.99. This collection of short biographies will introduce you to the accomplishments of women who looked up with wonder and determination. From the publisher: “From Ada Lovelace in the nineteenth century to the “colored computers” behind the Apollo missions, from the astronauts breaking records on the International Space Station to the scientific pioneers blazing the way to Mars, Galaxy Girls goes boldly where few books have gone before, celebrating this band of heroic sisters and their remarkable and often little known scientific achievements. Written by Libby Jackson, a leading British expert in human space flight, and illustrated with striking artwork from the students of London College of Communication, Galaxy Girls will fire the imaginations of trailblazers of all ages.”
Signs of Resistance: A Visual History of Protest in America, by Bonnie Siegler, $1.99. Protest and dissent are the constant companions of civilization. Bonnie Siegler has created a fascinating history of protest from America’s earliest days to modern times. This book is a look at both the issues that have motivated protest and the techniques that protesters have used to express themselves. There are more than 200 images, each with a short description. This book isn’t a comprehensive history, but it is a great visual resource and a jumping off point for more in-depth explorations.
Because I was a Girl: True Stories for Girls of All Ages, edited by Melissa De La Cruz, $2.99. This collection of stories from girls and women who have faced obstacles because of their gender. The stories are arranged chronologically, making it easy to see how societal expectations and opportunities have changed over time. You’ll meet interesting women from many different fields — astronauts, writers, military members, religious professionals, and more.
Emperors of the Deep: Sharks — The Ocean’s Most Mysterious, Most Misunderstood, and Most Important Guardians, by William McKeever, $1.99. McKeever is determined to clear up misconceptions and dispel fear about sharks. He goes into great detail about tiger, hammerhead, mako, and great white sharks. This book is part scientific exploration, part plea for conservation of this misunderstood creature.
Make & Mend: Sashiko-Inspired Embroidery Projects to Customize and Repair Textiles and Decorate Your Home, by Jessica Marquez, $1.99. Japan has a lovely culture of visible mending and textile reuse. Marquez has created this guide in an attempt to make these techniques accessible to American crafters. Beginners can jump in with confidence. The projects include original embroidery as well as decorative repairs, and all instructions have extensive color illustrations.
The Secret History of the Mongol Queens: How the Daughters of Genghis Khan Rescued His Empire, by Jack Weatherford, $1.99. Our first Women’s History Month pick! You’ve probably heard of Genghis Khan and his massive empire, but do you know what happened after his conquest? Here’s what the publisher says: “The Mongol queens of the thirteenth century ruled the largest empire the world has ever known. The daughters of the Silk Route turned their father’s conquests into the first truly international empire, fostering trade, education, and religion throughout their territories and creating an economic system that stretched from the Pacific to the Mediterranean. Yet sometime near the end of the century, censors cut a section about the queens from the Secret History of the Mongols, and, with that one act, the dynasty of these royals had seemingly been extinguished forever, as even their names were erased from the historical record. With The Secret History of the Mongol Queens, a groundbreaking and magnificently researched narrative, Jack Weatherford restores the queens’ missing chapter to the annals of history.”
Grammar Girl Presents The Ultimate Writing Guide for Students, by Mignon Fogarty, $3.99. Grammar Girl was one of the first podcasts I ever listened to, and I’ve enjoyed Mignon Fogarty for more than a decade. This book is a compilation of her helpful grammar advice written for middle- and high-school students. She covers everything from parts of speech to frequently misused words to guidelines for letter writing.
Legend, by Marie Lu, $1.99. Looking for a YA dystopian novel? This fast-paced novel told in alternating perspectives will keep you turning the pages. I enjoyed this one and read it all in a day because I couldn’t put it down. It’s the first in a trilogy that is now complete, so you’ll be able to dive deeply into this environment. Here’s the publisher’s summary: “What was once the western United States is now home to the Republic, a nation perpetually at war with its neighbors. Born into an elite family in one of the Republic's wealthiest districts, fifteen-year-old June is a prodigy being groomed for success in the Republic's highest military circles. Born into the slums, fifteen-year-old Day is the country's most wanted criminal. But his motives may not be as malicious as they seem. From very different worlds, June and Day have no reason to cross paths - until the day June's brother, Metias, is murdered and Day becomes the prime suspect. Caught in the ultimate game of cat and mouse, Day is in a race for his family's survival, while June seeks to avenge Metias's death. But in a shocking turn of events, the two uncover the truth of what has really brought them together, and the sinister lengths their country will go to keep its secrets.”
Invisible Women: Data Bias in a World Designed for Men, by Caroline Criado Perez, $2.99. Without a doubt, this is the most important book I read in 2019. Even in the 21st Century, most researchers do not collect data on women, or they average the data of women and men. This means that car safety features, medications, and even urban planning fail to adequately meet women’s needs. This book is fascinating and, frankly, infuriating. This is a must read.
El Deafo, by CeCe Bell, $2.99. Being different isn't always easy. When Cece Bell loses her hearing, she has to learn how to navigate the world in all new ways, including wearing a cutting-edge 1970s hearing aid and figuring out how to make friends when she can't always hear what people are saying—or when she hears too much. Cece is a likable, friendly character, and her story—part memoir, part graphic novel—is one that almost every middle schooler can relate to. This is one of the graphic novels designed specifically for the Kindle, so you don't have to worry about weird formatting issues.
Pocket Companion to Narnia: A Magical Guide to the World of C.S. Lewis, by Paul F. Ford, $4.99. The world of Narnia spans many generations and dozens of characters. This small volume offers an alphabetical listing of places, people, events, and more. The handy reference will help the both Narnia-lovers and newbies to keep all the details straight.
A Friend for Henry, by Jenn Bailey, $1.99. Henry sees the world a bit differently from many kids, and he worries about making friends. This sweet picture book about new beginnings never mentions autism by name in the text, though Henry’s thought patterns and sensory sensitivities fit that description. Share this book with the small people in your life.
Math Magic: How to Master Everyday Math Problems, by Scott Flansburg, $1.99. Is there someone in your life who is a little math-phobic? This book may help by offering a fresh perspective and some tricks for making calculations easier. Topics include addition, fractions, multiplication, cube roots, tax and tips, and even a little bit of algebra. The tone is geared toward older kids and adults who need a confidence boost.
Front Desk, by Kelly Yang, $4.99. My daughter and I loved this book so much. When 10-year-old Mia’s family takes a job managing a motel, they quickly discover that the owner expects lots of work for very little pay. Determined to take some of the burden off of her parents, Mia takes on front desk duty when she comes home from school. Soon, Mia is keeping lots of secrets — the needy immigrants that her parents are hiding in unused hotel rooms, the reasons she can’t hang out with friends after school, and even her secret dream of becoming a writer. Grab this one now! The sequel is coming out later this year.
Well-Read Black Girl, by Glory Edim, $4.99. This anthology looks awesome. From the publisher: “Remember that moment when you first encountered a character who seemed to be written just for you? That feeling of belonging remains with readers the rest of their lives—but not everyone regularly sees themselves in the pages of a book. In this timely anthology, Glory Edim brings together original essays by some of our best black women writers to shine a light on how important it is that we all—regardless of gender, race, religion, or ability—have the opportunity to find ourselves in literature.”
How Plants Work: The Science Behind the Amazing Things Plants Do, by Linda Chalker-Scott, $1.99. This book is designed for gardeners, but it is full of interesting information even if you have more of a black thumb than a green one. Chalker-Scott is an expert in plant physiology, and instead of just giving gardening advice (when to plant, where to prune, etc.), she uses her knowledge to explain why each practice matters.
Foundations of Comic Book Art: Fundamental Tool and Techniques for Sequential Artists, by John Paul Lowe, $4.99. If you or your child has been looking for a truly in-depth guide to comic book creation, this is the text you need. Lowe covers all the steps in the creation process, from sketching to storyboarding to digitizing with copious illustrations and examples.
The Brave Learner, by Julie Bogart, $4.99. It’s rare to find a deal on a book about homeschooling, particularly a book that I actually love. Julie Bogart is the encouraging mentor and friend every homeschooling parent needs. In The Brave Learner, Bogart expands the principles of her Brave Writer language arts program to offer suggestions for creating a joyful and child-centered homeschooling life in all subjects. Let Julie inspire you to bring enchantment into your education.
Get Up, Stand Up, by Bob Marley and Cedella Marley, $1.99. This beautiful picture book combines the words of Bob Marley’s classic song with lovely illustrations that tell a story of bullying and friendship. Though intended for the very young, this book would be a great book to get older kids talking about the power of music or the ways pictures can tell a story.
Unseen: Unpublished Black History from The New York Times Photo Archives, by Dana Canedy, Damien Cave, Rachel L. Swarns, and Darcy Eveleigh, $3.99. News is being made all around us, but not every story makes it into the printed record of history. New York Times photo editor Darcy Eveleigh discovered dozens of unprinted photos in the newspaper’s archives. With the help of her colleagues, Eveleigh researched the context of these photos and brought new stories to light. You’ll find unseen sides of familiar faces and entirely new tales from history.
The Periodic Table: A Field Guide to the Elements, by Paul Parsons and Gail Dixon, $3.99. This vibrant and careful guide to all the elements in the periodic table will intrigue budding chemists and anyone who wants to understand how things work. Lots of vivid illustrations of the elements in their various forms round out the dense but accessible text.
Josephine: The Dazzling Life of Josephine Baker, by Patricia Hruby Powell and Christian Robinson, $1.99. This lovely children’s biography of Josephine Baker covers both her performance career and her civil rights work. It is written in a jazz-style poetry that calls to mind the 1920s. The simple, vivid illustrations won the Coretta Scott King Honor distinction.
Science in Seconds: 200 Key Concepts Explained in an Instant, by Hazel Muir, $1.99. This illustrated guide to scientific concepts explains everything from thermodynamics to the Doppler effect. It’s an excellent resource for when you need a refresher or a way to answer a homework question.
In Progress: Seeing Inside a Lettering Artist’s Sketchbook and Process, from Pencil to Vector, by Jessica Hische, $2.99. I love to learn about how things are made, and this peek into a lettering artist’s work process is really fascinating to me. This is a great introduction to the terminology, tools, and business of lettering. You’ll enjoy this look behind the scenes even if you, like me, have no talent for fancy handwriting.
Super Graphic: A Visual Guide to the Comic Book Universe, by Tim Leong, $1.99. If you love comic books, this is the book for you. If you know very little about superheroes but enjoy infographics, this is also the book for you. Tim Leong breaks down the world of superheroes and supervillians by color, geographic area, height, weight, and more.
Binti, by Nnedi Okorafor, $1.99. This sci-fi novella introduces an exciting new universe. Binti, a Himba tribeswoman, is the first of her people to gain admission to a galactic university. Against her family’s wishes, she leaves her desert home to pursue higher education. A disaster on her transport ship has profound impacts on Binti’s future. This book is beautifully written and a whirlwind of activity. It’s short, but it packs a punch.
How to Draw Fantasy Art and RPG Maps: Step by Step Cartography for Gamers and Fans, by Jared Blando, $4.99. I’m a big fan of meeting kids where they are to sneak in some meaningful learning. In creating a fantasy world and building an accurate map, budding cartographers will have a crash course in geography. The book offers good starting points for discussion of geographic features, cities and transportation, political history, and heraldry. The excellent and varied illustrations break the complex process into manageable steps.
Enlightenment Now, by Steven Pinker, $1.99. This is a great deal on a massive, informative book, so snap it up! It is very easy to get stuck in thinking about all of the problems and disasters facing the modern world. Pinker uses meticulous sociological research to show that human conditions have been steadily improving since the Enlightenment. Far from resting on laurels, Pinker encourages readers to continue embracing reason and science to defend the world against the ever-encroaching tribalism, demagoguery, and fatalism that also seem to be a persistent part of human nature.
A Crazy-Much Love, by Joy Jordan-Lake, $1.99. This sweet picture book tells the story of an international adoption and many milestones that follow in a young girl’s family.
George, by Alex Gino, $3.99. George may look like a boy, but she knows she is really a girl. Determined to win the role of Charlotte in her school play of Charlotte’s Web, she sets out to make sure everyone else can see her the way she sees herself. Books that address the experiences of transgender tweens are rare, and this one does it well, so snag it for your middle-grade reader.
Challenge Accepted! 253 Steps to Becoming an Anti-It Girl, by Celeste Barber, $1.99. You may have seen Australian actor and comedian Celeste Barber’s hilarious Instagram photos attempting to copy ridiculous celebrity poses. If you’re interested in her take on childbirth, what it’s like to share so much of her life on the internet, body image, and more, this book is a breezy, laugh-out-loud read. Note: If you are squeamish about crude language, this may not be the book for you.
The Blue Sword, by Robin McKinley, $1.99. From our Adventure and Suspense reading list: Orphaned girl Harry Crewe is living a perfectly ordinary life — until the day she is kidnapped by the king of the Hillfolk to fulfill a destiny she never imagined. Is Harry really a true warrior who can wield the legendary blue sword? And even if she is, will she believe in herself enough to seize her fate?
Waiting, by Kevin Henkes, $1.99. This sweet picture book captures the emotional essence of childhood. Five toys sit by a window, each waiting for something different to happen. Simple, but resonant text and warm illustrations make this a delightful read.
The Stuff of Thought: Language as a Window into Human Nature, by Steven Pinker, $4.99. This book is fascinating and long. I bought it when I couldn’t finish my library copy in time (and I wanted to be able to refer to it again). Word nerds and anthropology fans will love this genre mashup. Find out what the words people use for swearing, humor, and metaphor say about us as human beings.
From the Corner of the Oval, by Beck Dorey-Stein, $4.99. This dishy political memoir describes the Obama White House from an unusual perspective, that of one of his twenty-something stenographers. Dorey-Stein came to the job with no political experience and got thrown into the deep end. The New York Times called this “Bridget Jones goes to the White House” — how can you pass that up?
Inside Out and Back Again, by Thanhha Lai, $1.99. From our big immigration stories reading list (winter 2017): “When Hà’s family flees Vietnam to escape the war there, she finds it difficult to adjust to a very different kind of life in Alabama. Told in spare, simple verse, this book packs an emotional wallop and allows kids to slip inside the first person experience of being a stranger in a strange land.”
This Book is Grey, by Lindsay Ward, $1.99. The other colors aren’t always friendly to Grey, and he just wants to fit in. He decides to make his own book of awesome things that are grey (hippos, clouds, kittens, etc.), but the other colors are not so enthusiastic. This is a story about fitting in, being true to yourself, and a little bit of color theory.
Kindle Deals for March 6, 2020
We are delving into history today! All of today’s books will introduce lesser-known stories of female astronomers and astronauts, protesters, and moments the history books get wrong.
Today's Best Book Deals for Your Homeschool
(Prices are correct as of the time of writing, but y'all know sales move fast — check before you click the buy button! These are Amazon links — read more about how we use affiliate links to help support some of the costs of the HSL blog here.)
Never miss a deal! Sign up for an email notification every time we post here.
Galaxy Girls: 50 Amazing Stories of Women in Space, by Libby Jackson, $1.99. This collection of short biographies will introduce you to the accomplishments of women who looked up with wonder and determination. From the publisher: “From Ada Lovelace in the nineteenth century to the “colored computers” behind the Apollo missions, from the astronauts breaking records on the International Space Station to the scientific pioneers blazing the way to Mars, Galaxy Girls goes boldly where few books have gone before, celebrating this band of heroic sisters and their remarkable and often little known scientific achievements. Written by Libby Jackson, a leading British expert in human space flight, and illustrated with striking artwork from the students of London College of Communication, Galaxy Girls will fire the imaginations of trailblazers of all ages.”
Signs of Resistance: A Visual History of Protest in America, by Bonnie Siegler, $1.99. Protest and dissent are the constant companions of civilization. Bonnie Siegler has created a fascinating history of protest from America’s earliest days to modern times. This book is a look at both the issues that have motivated protest and the techniques that protesters have used to express themselves. There are more than 200 images, each with a short description. This book isn’t a comprehensive history, but it is a great visual resource and a jumping off point for more in-depth explorations.
Lies My Teacher Told Me: Young Readers’ Edition: Everything American History Textbooks Gets Wrong, by James W. Loewen and Rebecca Stefoff, $1.99. This classic of critical history has been updated and adapted for a middle/high audience. The publisher describes it like this: "Essential reading in our age of fake news and slippery, sloppy history, Lies My Teacher Told Me: Young Readers’ Edition cuts through the mindless optimism and outright lies found in most textbooks that are often not even really written by their “authors.” Loewen is, as historian Carol Kammen has said, the history teacher we all should have had. Beginning with pre-Columbian history and then covering characters and events as diverse as the first Thanksgiving, Helen Keller, the My Lai massacre, 9/11, and the Iraq War, Loewen’s lively, provocative telling of American history is a “counter-textbook that retells the story of the American past” (The Nation). This streamlined young readers’ edition is rich in vivid details and quotations from primary sources that poke holes in the textbook versions of history and help students develop a deeper understanding of our world. Lies My Teacher Told Me: Young Readers’ Edition brings this classic text to a new generation of readers (and their parents and teachers) who will welcome and value its honesty, its humor, and its integrity.”
STILL ON SALE
Because I was a Girl: True Stories for Girls of All Ages, edited by Melissa De La Cruz, $2.99. This collection of stories from girls and women who have faced obstacles because of their gender. The stories are arranged chronologically, making it easy to see how societal expectations and opportunities have changed over time. You’ll meet interesting women from many different fields — astronauts, writers, military members, religious professionals, and more.
Emperors of the Deep: Sharks — The Ocean’s Most Mysterious, Most Misunderstood, and Most Important Guardians, by William McKeever, $1.99. McKeever is determined to clear up misconceptions and dispel fear about sharks. He goes into great detail about tiger, hammerhead, mako, and great white sharks. This book is part scientific exploration, part plea for conservation of this misunderstood creature.
Make & Mend: Sashiko-Inspired Embroidery Projects to Customize and Repair Textiles and Decorate Your Home, by Jessica Marquez, $1.99. Japan has a lovely culture of visible mending and textile reuse. Marquez has created this guide in an attempt to make these techniques accessible to American crafters. Beginners can jump in with confidence. The projects include original embroidery as well as decorative repairs, and all instructions have extensive color illustrations.
The Secret History of the Mongol Queens: How the Daughters of Genghis Khan Rescued His Empire, by Jack Weatherford, $1.99. Our first Women’s History Month pick! You’ve probably heard of Genghis Khan and his massive empire, but do you know what happened after his conquest? Here’s what the publisher says: “The Mongol queens of the thirteenth century ruled the largest empire the world has ever known. The daughters of the Silk Route turned their father’s conquests into the first truly international empire, fostering trade, education, and religion throughout their territories and creating an economic system that stretched from the Pacific to the Mediterranean. Yet sometime near the end of the century, censors cut a section about the queens from the Secret History of the Mongols, and, with that one act, the dynasty of these royals had seemingly been extinguished forever, as even their names were erased from the historical record. With The Secret History of the Mongol Queens, a groundbreaking and magnificently researched narrative, Jack Weatherford restores the queens’ missing chapter to the annals of history.”
Grammar Girl Presents The Ultimate Writing Guide for Students, by Mignon Fogarty, $3.99. Grammar Girl was one of the first podcasts I ever listened to, and I’ve enjoyed Mignon Fogarty for more than a decade. This book is a compilation of her helpful grammar advice written for middle- and high-school students. She covers everything from parts of speech to frequently misused words to guidelines for letter writing.
Legend, by Marie Lu, $1.99. Looking for a YA dystopian novel? This fast-paced novel told in alternating perspectives will keep you turning the pages. I enjoyed this one and read it all in a day because I couldn’t put it down. It’s the first in a trilogy that is now complete, so you’ll be able to dive deeply into this environment. Here’s the publisher’s summary: “What was once the western United States is now home to the Republic, a nation perpetually at war with its neighbors. Born into an elite family in one of the Republic's wealthiest districts, fifteen-year-old June is a prodigy being groomed for success in the Republic's highest military circles. Born into the slums, fifteen-year-old Day is the country's most wanted criminal. But his motives may not be as malicious as they seem. From very different worlds, June and Day have no reason to cross paths - until the day June's brother, Metias, is murdered and Day becomes the prime suspect. Caught in the ultimate game of cat and mouse, Day is in a race for his family's survival, while June seeks to avenge Metias's death. But in a shocking turn of events, the two uncover the truth of what has really brought them together, and the sinister lengths their country will go to keep its secrets.”
Invisible Women: Data Bias in a World Designed for Men, by Caroline Criado Perez, $2.99. Without a doubt, this is the most important book I read in 2019. Even in the 21st Century, most researchers do not collect data on women, or they average the data of women and men. This means that car safety features, medications, and even urban planning fail to adequately meet women’s needs. This book is fascinating and, frankly, infuriating. This is a must read.
El Deafo, by CeCe Bell, $2.99. Being different isn't always easy. When Cece Bell loses her hearing, she has to learn how to navigate the world in all new ways, including wearing a cutting-edge 1970s hearing aid and figuring out how to make friends when she can't always hear what people are saying—or when she hears too much. Cece is a likable, friendly character, and her story—part memoir, part graphic novel—is one that almost every middle schooler can relate to. This is one of the graphic novels designed specifically for the Kindle, so you don't have to worry about weird formatting issues.
Pocket Companion to Narnia: A Magical Guide to the World of C.S. Lewis, by Paul F. Ford, $4.99. The world of Narnia spans many generations and dozens of characters. This small volume offers an alphabetical listing of places, people, events, and more. The handy reference will help the both Narnia-lovers and newbies to keep all the details straight.
A Friend for Henry, by Jenn Bailey, $1.99. Henry sees the world a bit differently from many kids, and he worries about making friends. This sweet picture book about new beginnings never mentions autism by name in the text, though Henry’s thought patterns and sensory sensitivities fit that description. Share this book with the small people in your life.
Math Magic: How to Master Everyday Math Problems, by Scott Flansburg, $1.99. Is there someone in your life who is a little math-phobic? This book may help by offering a fresh perspective and some tricks for making calculations easier. Topics include addition, fractions, multiplication, cube roots, tax and tips, and even a little bit of algebra. The tone is geared toward older kids and adults who need a confidence boost.
Front Desk, by Kelly Yang, $4.99. My daughter and I loved this book so much. When 10-year-old Mia’s family takes a job managing a motel, they quickly discover that the owner expects lots of work for very little pay. Determined to take some of the burden off of her parents, Mia takes on front desk duty when she comes home from school. Soon, Mia is keeping lots of secrets — the needy immigrants that her parents are hiding in unused hotel rooms, the reasons she can’t hang out with friends after school, and even her secret dream of becoming a writer. Grab this one now! The sequel is coming out later this year.
Well-Read Black Girl, by Glory Edim, $4.99. This anthology looks awesome. From the publisher: “Remember that moment when you first encountered a character who seemed to be written just for you? That feeling of belonging remains with readers the rest of their lives—but not everyone regularly sees themselves in the pages of a book. In this timely anthology, Glory Edim brings together original essays by some of our best black women writers to shine a light on how important it is that we all—regardless of gender, race, religion, or ability—have the opportunity to find ourselves in literature.”
How Plants Work: The Science Behind the Amazing Things Plants Do, by Linda Chalker-Scott, $1.99. This book is designed for gardeners, but it is full of interesting information even if you have more of a black thumb than a green one. Chalker-Scott is an expert in plant physiology, and instead of just giving gardening advice (when to plant, where to prune, etc.), she uses her knowledge to explain why each practice matters.
Foundations of Comic Book Art: Fundamental Tool and Techniques for Sequential Artists, by John Paul Lowe, $4.99. If you or your child has been looking for a truly in-depth guide to comic book creation, this is the text you need. Lowe covers all the steps in the creation process, from sketching to storyboarding to digitizing with copious illustrations and examples.
The Brave Learner, by Julie Bogart, $4.99. It’s rare to find a deal on a book about homeschooling, particularly a book that I actually love. Julie Bogart is the encouraging mentor and friend every homeschooling parent needs. In The Brave Learner, Bogart expands the principles of her Brave Writer language arts program to offer suggestions for creating a joyful and child-centered homeschooling life in all subjects. Let Julie inspire you to bring enchantment into your education.
Get Up, Stand Up, by Bob Marley and Cedella Marley, $1.99. This beautiful picture book combines the words of Bob Marley’s classic song with lovely illustrations that tell a story of bullying and friendship. Though intended for the very young, this book would be a great book to get older kids talking about the power of music or the ways pictures can tell a story.
Unseen: Unpublished Black History from The New York Times Photo Archives, by Dana Canedy, Damien Cave, Rachel L. Swarns, and Darcy Eveleigh, $3.99. News is being made all around us, but not every story makes it into the printed record of history. New York Times photo editor Darcy Eveleigh discovered dozens of unprinted photos in the newspaper’s archives. With the help of her colleagues, Eveleigh researched the context of these photos and brought new stories to light. You’ll find unseen sides of familiar faces and entirely new tales from history.
The Periodic Table: A Field Guide to the Elements, by Paul Parsons and Gail Dixon, $3.99. This vibrant and careful guide to all the elements in the periodic table will intrigue budding chemists and anyone who wants to understand how things work. Lots of vivid illustrations of the elements in their various forms round out the dense but accessible text.
Josephine: The Dazzling Life of Josephine Baker, by Patricia Hruby Powell and Christian Robinson, $1.99. This lovely children’s biography of Josephine Baker covers both her performance career and her civil rights work. It is written in a jazz-style poetry that calls to mind the 1920s. The simple, vivid illustrations won the Coretta Scott King Honor distinction.
Science in Seconds: 200 Key Concepts Explained in an Instant, by Hazel Muir, $1.99. This illustrated guide to scientific concepts explains everything from thermodynamics to the Doppler effect. It’s an excellent resource for when you need a refresher or a way to answer a homework question.
In Progress: Seeing Inside a Lettering Artist’s Sketchbook and Process, from Pencil to Vector, by Jessica Hische, $2.99. I love to learn about how things are made, and this peek into a lettering artist’s work process is really fascinating to me. This is a great introduction to the terminology, tools, and business of lettering. You’ll enjoy this look behind the scenes even if you, like me, have no talent for fancy handwriting.
Super Graphic: A Visual Guide to the Comic Book Universe, by Tim Leong, $1.99. If you love comic books, this is the book for you. If you know very little about superheroes but enjoy infographics, this is also the book for you. Tim Leong breaks down the world of superheroes and supervillians by color, geographic area, height, weight, and more.
Binti, by Nnedi Okorafor, $1.99. This sci-fi novella introduces an exciting new universe. Binti, a Himba tribeswoman, is the first of her people to gain admission to a galactic university. Against her family’s wishes, she leaves her desert home to pursue higher education. A disaster on her transport ship has profound impacts on Binti’s future. This book is beautifully written and a whirlwind of activity. It’s short, but it packs a punch.
How to Draw Fantasy Art and RPG Maps: Step by Step Cartography for Gamers and Fans, by Jared Blando, $4.99. I’m a big fan of meeting kids where they are to sneak in some meaningful learning. In creating a fantasy world and building an accurate map, budding cartographers will have a crash course in geography. The book offers good starting points for discussion of geographic features, cities and transportation, political history, and heraldry. The excellent and varied illustrations break the complex process into manageable steps.
Enlightenment Now, by Steven Pinker, $1.99. This is a great deal on a massive, informative book, so snap it up! It is very easy to get stuck in thinking about all of the problems and disasters facing the modern world. Pinker uses meticulous sociological research to show that human conditions have been steadily improving since the Enlightenment. Far from resting on laurels, Pinker encourages readers to continue embracing reason and science to defend the world against the ever-encroaching tribalism, demagoguery, and fatalism that also seem to be a persistent part of human nature.
A Crazy-Much Love, by Joy Jordan-Lake, $1.99. This sweet picture book tells the story of an international adoption and many milestones that follow in a young girl’s family.
George, by Alex Gino, $3.99. George may look like a boy, but she knows she is really a girl. Determined to win the role of Charlotte in her school play of Charlotte’s Web, she sets out to make sure everyone else can see her the way she sees herself. Books that address the experiences of transgender tweens are rare, and this one does it well, so snag it for your middle-grade reader.
Challenge Accepted! 253 Steps to Becoming an Anti-It Girl, by Celeste Barber, $1.99. You may have seen Australian actor and comedian Celeste Barber’s hilarious Instagram photos attempting to copy ridiculous celebrity poses. If you’re interested in her take on childbirth, what it’s like to share so much of her life on the internet, body image, and more, this book is a breezy, laugh-out-loud read. Note: If you are squeamish about crude language, this may not be the book for you.
The Blue Sword, by Robin McKinley, $1.99. From our Adventure and Suspense reading list: Orphaned girl Harry Crewe is living a perfectly ordinary life — until the day she is kidnapped by the king of the Hillfolk to fulfill a destiny she never imagined. Is Harry really a true warrior who can wield the legendary blue sword? And even if she is, will she believe in herself enough to seize her fate?
Waiting, by Kevin Henkes, $1.99. This sweet picture book captures the emotional essence of childhood. Five toys sit by a window, each waiting for something different to happen. Simple, but resonant text and warm illustrations make this a delightful read.
The Stuff of Thought: Language as a Window into Human Nature, by Steven Pinker, $4.99. This book is fascinating and long. I bought it when I couldn’t finish my library copy in time (and I wanted to be able to refer to it again). Word nerds and anthropology fans will love this genre mashup. Find out what the words people use for swearing, humor, and metaphor say about us as human beings.
From the Corner of the Oval, by Beck Dorey-Stein, $4.99. This dishy political memoir describes the Obama White House from an unusual perspective, that of one of his twenty-something stenographers. Dorey-Stein came to the job with no political experience and got thrown into the deep end. The New York Times called this “Bridget Jones goes to the White House” — how can you pass that up?
Inside Out and Back Again, by Thanhha Lai, $1.99. From our big immigration stories reading list (winter 2017): “When Hà’s family flees Vietnam to escape the war there, she finds it difficult to adjust to a very different kind of life in Alabama. Told in spare, simple verse, this book packs an emotional wallop and allows kids to slip inside the first person experience of being a stranger in a strange land.”
This Book is Grey, by Lindsay Ward, $1.99. The other colors aren’t always friendly to Grey, and he just wants to fit in. He decides to make his own book of awesome things that are grey (hippos, clouds, kittens, etc.), but the other colors are not so enthusiastic. This is a story about fitting in, being true to yourself, and a little bit of color theory.
Kindle Deals for March 5, 2020
Great deals on books about astronauts, “difficult women,” and how to survive an ostrich attack.
Today's Best Book Deals for Your Homeschool
(Prices are correct as of the time of writing, but y'all know sales move fast — check before you click the buy button! These are Amazon links — read more about how we use affiliate links to help support some of the costs of the HSL blog here.)
Never miss a deal! Sign up for an email notification every time we post here.
Sally Ride: A Photobiography of America’s Pioneering Woman in Space, by Tam O’Shaughnessy, $2.99. This middle grade biography is full of pictures from Ride’s childhood to later life. Kids will enjoy seeing artifacts from her life. O’Shaugnessy, Sally Ride’s long-term partner, shares lots of lesser-known details about the astronaut’s life.
In Praise of Difficult Women: Life Lessons from 29 Heroines Who Dared to Break the Rules, by Karen Karbo, $1.99. From the publisher: “Smart, sassy, and unapologetically feminine, this elegantly illustrated book is an ode to the bold and charismatic women of modern history. Best-selling author Karen Karbo (The Gospel According to Coco Chanel) spotlights the spirited rule breakers who charted their way with little regard for expectations: Amelia Earhart, Helen Gurley Brown, Edie Sedgwick, Hillary Clinton, Amy Poehler, and Shonda Rhimes, among others. Their lives--imperfect, elegant, messy, glorious--provide inspiration and instruction for the new age of feminism we have entered. Karbo distills these lessons with wit and humor, examining the universal themes that connect us to each of these mesmerizing personalities today: success and style, love and authenticity, daring and courage. Being ‘difficult,’ Karbo reveals, might not make life easier. But it can make it more fulfilling--whatever that means for you.”
How to Save Your Child from Ostrich Attacks, Accidental Time Travel, and Anything Else that Might Happen on an Average Tuesday, by James Breakwell, $2.99. This hilarious “survival guide” from parenting humorist James Breakwell is a commentary on the fear culture that shapes so much of child raising. Sometimes you just need a laugh.
STILL ON SALE
Because I was a Girl: True Stories for Girls of All Ages, edited by Melissa De La Cruz, $2.99. This collection of stories from girls and women who have faced obstacles because of their gender. The stories are arranged chronologically, making it easy to see how societal expectations and opportunities have changed over time. You’ll meet interesting women from many different fields — astronauts, writers, military members, religious professionals, and more.
Emperors of the Deep: Sharks — The Ocean’s Most Mysterious, Most Misunderstood, and Most Important Guardians, by William McKeever, $1.99. McKeever is determined to clear up misconceptions and dispel fear about sharks. He goes into great detail about tiger, hammerhead, mako, and great white sharks. This book is part scientific exploration, part plea for conservation of this misunderstood creature.
Make & Mend: Sashiko-Inspired Embroidery Projects to Customize and Repair Textiles and Decorate Your Home, by Jessica Marquez, $1.99. Japan has a lovely culture of visible mending and textile reuse. Marquez has created this guide in an attempt to make these techniques accessible to American crafters. Beginners can jump in with confidence. The projects include original embroidery as well as decorative repairs, and all instructions have extensive color illustrations.
The Secret History of the Mongol Queens: How the Daughters of Genghis Khan Rescued His Empire, by Jack Weatherford, $1.99. Our first Women’s History Month pick! You’ve probably heard of Genghis Khan and his massive empire, but do you know what happened after his conquest? Here’s what the publisher says: “The Mongol queens of the thirteenth century ruled the largest empire the world has ever known. The daughters of the Silk Route turned their father’s conquests into the first truly international empire, fostering trade, education, and religion throughout their territories and creating an economic system that stretched from the Pacific to the Mediterranean. Yet sometime near the end of the century, censors cut a section about the queens from the Secret History of the Mongols, and, with that one act, the dynasty of these royals had seemingly been extinguished forever, as even their names were erased from the historical record. With The Secret History of the Mongol Queens, a groundbreaking and magnificently researched narrative, Jack Weatherford restores the queens’ missing chapter to the annals of history.”
Grammar Girl Presents The Ultimate Writing Guide for Students, by Mignon Fogarty, $3.99. Grammar Girl was one of the first podcasts I ever listened to, and I’ve enjoyed Mignon Fogarty for more than a decade. This book is a compilation of her helpful grammar advice written for middle- and high-school students. She covers everything from parts of speech to frequently misused words to guidelines for letter writing.
Legend, by Marie Lu, $1.99. Looking for a YA dystopian novel? This fast-paced novel told in alternating perspectives will keep you turning the pages. I enjoyed this one and read it all in a day because I couldn’t put it down. It’s the first in a trilogy that is now complete, so you’ll be able to dive deeply into this environment. Here’s the publisher’s summary: “What was once the western United States is now home to the Republic, a nation perpetually at war with its neighbors. Born into an elite family in one of the Republic's wealthiest districts, fifteen-year-old June is a prodigy being groomed for success in the Republic's highest military circles. Born into the slums, fifteen-year-old Day is the country's most wanted criminal. But his motives may not be as malicious as they seem. From very different worlds, June and Day have no reason to cross paths - until the day June's brother, Metias, is murdered and Day becomes the prime suspect. Caught in the ultimate game of cat and mouse, Day is in a race for his family's survival, while June seeks to avenge Metias's death. But in a shocking turn of events, the two uncover the truth of what has really brought them together, and the sinister lengths their country will go to keep its secrets.”
Invisible Women: Data Bias in a World Designed for Men, by Caroline Criado Perez, $2.99. Without a doubt, this is the most important book I read in 2019. Even in the 21st Century, most researchers do not collect data on women, or they average the data of women and men. This means that car safety features, medications, and even urban planning fail to adequately meet women’s needs. This book is fascinating and, frankly, infuriating. This is a must read.
El Deafo, by CeCe Bell, $2.99. Being different isn't always easy. When Cece Bell loses her hearing, she has to learn how to navigate the world in all new ways, including wearing a cutting-edge 1970s hearing aid and figuring out how to make friends when she can't always hear what people are saying—or when she hears too much. Cece is a likable, friendly character, and her story—part memoir, part graphic novel—is one that almost every middle schooler can relate to. This is one of the graphic novels designed specifically for the Kindle, so you don't have to worry about weird formatting issues.
Pocket Companion to Narnia: A Magical Guide to the World of C.S. Lewis, by Paul F. Ford, $4.99. The world of Narnia spans many generations and dozens of characters. This small volume offers an alphabetical listing of places, people, events, and more. The handy reference will help the both Narnia-lovers and newbies to keep all the details straight.
A Friend for Henry, by Jenn Bailey, $1.99. Henry sees the world a bit differently from many kids, and he worries about making friends. This sweet picture book about new beginnings never mentions autism by name in the text, though Henry’s thought patterns and sensory sensitivities fit that description. Share this book with the small people in your life.
Math Magic: How to Master Everyday Math Problems, by Scott Flansburg, $1.99. Is there someone in your life who is a little math-phobic? This book may help by offering a fresh perspective and some tricks for making calculations easier. Topics include addition, fractions, multiplication, cube roots, tax and tips, and even a little bit of algebra. The tone is geared toward older kids and adults who need a confidence boost.
Front Desk, by Kelly Yang, $4.99. My daughter and I loved this book so much. When 10-year-old Mia’s family takes a job managing a motel, they quickly discover that the owner expects lots of work for very little pay. Determined to take some of the burden off of her parents, Mia takes on front desk duty when she comes home from school. Soon, Mia is keeping lots of secrets — the needy immigrants that her parents are hiding in unused hotel rooms, the reasons she can’t hang out with friends after school, and even her secret dream of becoming a writer. Grab this one now! The sequel is coming out later this year.
Well-Read Black Girl, by Glory Edim, $4.99. This anthology looks awesome. From the publisher: “Remember that moment when you first encountered a character who seemed to be written just for you? That feeling of belonging remains with readers the rest of their lives—but not everyone regularly sees themselves in the pages of a book. In this timely anthology, Glory Edim brings together original essays by some of our best black women writers to shine a light on how important it is that we all—regardless of gender, race, religion, or ability—have the opportunity to find ourselves in literature.”
How Plants Work: The Science Behind the Amazing Things Plants Do, by Linda Chalker-Scott, $1.99. This book is designed for gardeners, but it is full of interesting information even if you have more of a black thumb than a green one. Chalker-Scott is an expert in plant physiology, and instead of just giving gardening advice (when to plant, where to prune, etc.), she uses her knowledge to explain why each practice matters.
Foundations of Comic Book Art: Fundamental Tool and Techniques for Sequential Artists, by John Paul Lowe, $4.99. If you or your child has been looking for a truly in-depth guide to comic book creation, this is the text you need. Lowe covers all the steps in the creation process, from sketching to storyboarding to digitizing with copious illustrations and examples.
The Brave Learner, by Julie Bogart, $4.99. It’s rare to find a deal on a book about homeschooling, particularly a book that I actually love. Julie Bogart is the encouraging mentor and friend every homeschooling parent needs. In The Brave Learner, Bogart expands the principles of her Brave Writer language arts program to offer suggestions for creating a joyful and child-centered homeschooling life in all subjects. Let Julie inspire you to bring enchantment into your education.
Get Up, Stand Up, by Bob Marley and Cedella Marley, $1.99. This beautiful picture book combines the words of Bob Marley’s classic song with lovely illustrations that tell a story of bullying and friendship. Though intended for the very young, this book would be a great book to get older kids talking about the power of music or the ways pictures can tell a story.
Unseen: Unpublished Black History from The New York Times Photo Archives, by Dana Canedy, Damien Cave, Rachel L. Swarns, and Darcy Eveleigh, $3.99. News is being made all around us, but not every story makes it into the printed record of history. New York Times photo editor Darcy Eveleigh discovered dozens of unprinted photos in the newspaper’s archives. With the help of her colleagues, Eveleigh researched the context of these photos and brought new stories to light. You’ll find unseen sides of familiar faces and entirely new tales from history.
The Periodic Table: A Field Guide to the Elements, by Paul Parsons and Gail Dixon, $3.99. This vibrant and careful guide to all the elements in the periodic table will intrigue budding chemists and anyone who wants to understand how things work. Lots of vivid illustrations of the elements in their various forms round out the dense but accessible text.
Josephine: The Dazzling Life of Josephine Baker, by Patricia Hruby Powell and Christian Robinson, $1.99. This lovely children’s biography of Josephine Baker covers both her performance career and her civil rights work. It is written in a jazz-style poetry that calls to mind the 1920s. The simple, vivid illustrations won the Coretta Scott King Honor distinction.
Science in Seconds: 200 Key Concepts Explained in an Instant, by Hazel Muir, $1.99. This illustrated guide to scientific concepts explains everything from thermodynamics to the Doppler effect. It’s an excellent resource for when you need a refresher or a way to answer a homework question.
In Progress: Seeing Inside a Lettering Artist’s Sketchbook and Process, from Pencil to Vector, by Jessica Hische, $2.99. I love to learn about how things are made, and this peek into a lettering artist’s work process is really fascinating to me. This is a great introduction to the terminology, tools, and business of lettering. You’ll enjoy this look behind the scenes even if you, like me, have no talent for fancy handwriting.
Super Graphic: A Visual Guide to the Comic Book Universe, by Tim Leong, $1.99. If you love comic books, this is the book for you. If you know very little about superheroes but enjoy infographics, this is also the book for you. Tim Leong breaks down the world of superheroes and supervillians by color, geographic area, height, weight, and more.
Binti, by Nnedi Okorafor, $1.99. This sci-fi novella introduces an exciting new universe. Binti, a Himba tribeswoman, is the first of her people to gain admission to a galactic university. Against her family’s wishes, she leaves her desert home to pursue higher education. A disaster on her transport ship has profound impacts on Binti’s future. This book is beautifully written and a whirlwind of activity. It’s short, but it packs a punch.
How to Draw Fantasy Art and RPG Maps: Step by Step Cartography for Gamers and Fans, by Jared Blando, $4.99. I’m a big fan of meeting kids where they are to sneak in some meaningful learning. In creating a fantasy world and building an accurate map, budding cartographers will have a crash course in geography. The book offers good starting points for discussion of geographic features, cities and transportation, political history, and heraldry. The excellent and varied illustrations break the complex process into manageable steps.
Enlightenment Now, by Steven Pinker, $1.99. This is a great deal on a massive, informative book, so snap it up! It is very easy to get stuck in thinking about all of the problems and disasters facing the modern world. Pinker uses meticulous sociological research to show that human conditions have been steadily improving since the Enlightenment. Far from resting on laurels, Pinker encourages readers to continue embracing reason and science to defend the world against the ever-encroaching tribalism, demagoguery, and fatalism that also seem to be a persistent part of human nature.
A Crazy-Much Love, by Joy Jordan-Lake, $1.99. This sweet picture book tells the story of an international adoption and many milestones that follow in a young girl’s family.
George, by Alex Gino, $3.99. George may look like a boy, but she knows she is really a girl. Determined to win the role of Charlotte in her school play of Charlotte’s Web, she sets out to make sure everyone else can see her the way she sees herself. Books that address the experiences of transgender tweens are rare, and this one does it well, so snag it for your middle-grade reader.
Challenge Accepted! 253 Steps to Becoming an Anti-It Girl, by Celeste Barber, $1.99. You may have seen Australian actor and comedian Celeste Barber’s hilarious Instagram photos attempting to copy ridiculous celebrity poses. If you’re interested in her take on childbirth, what it’s like to share so much of her life on the internet, body image, and more, this book is a breezy, laugh-out-loud read. Note: If you are squeamish about crude language, this may not be the book for you.
The Blue Sword, by Robin McKinley, $1.99. From our Adventure and Suspense reading list: Orphaned girl Harry Crewe is living a perfectly ordinary life — until the day she is kidnapped by the king of the Hillfolk to fulfill a destiny she never imagined. Is Harry really a true warrior who can wield the legendary blue sword? And even if she is, will she believe in herself enough to seize her fate?
Waiting, by Kevin Henkes, $1.99. This sweet picture book captures the emotional essence of childhood. Five toys sit by a window, each waiting for something different to happen. Simple, but resonant text and warm illustrations make this a delightful read.
The Stuff of Thought: Language as a Window into Human Nature, by Steven Pinker, $4.99. This book is fascinating and long. I bought it when I couldn’t finish my library copy in time (and I wanted to be able to refer to it again). Word nerds and anthropology fans will love this genre mashup. Find out what the words people use for swearing, humor, and metaphor say about us as human beings.
From the Corner of the Oval, by Beck Dorey-Stein, $4.99. This dishy political memoir describes the Obama White House from an unusual perspective, that of one of his twenty-something stenographers. Dorey-Stein came to the job with no political experience and got thrown into the deep end. The New York Times called this “Bridget Jones goes to the White House” — how can you pass that up?
Inside Out and Back Again, by Thanhha Lai, $1.99. From our big immigration stories reading list (winter 2017): “When Hà’s family flees Vietnam to escape the war there, she finds it difficult to adjust to a very different kind of life in Alabama. Told in spare, simple verse, this book packs an emotional wallop and allows kids to slip inside the first person experience of being a stranger in a strange land.”
This Book is Grey, by Lindsay Ward, $1.99. The other colors aren’t always friendly to Grey, and he just wants to fit in. He decides to make his own book of awesome things that are grey (hippos, clouds, kittens, etc.), but the other colors are not so enthusiastic. This is a story about fitting in, being true to yourself, and a little bit of color theory.
Kindle Deals for March 4, 2020
Today we have a collection of women’s stories, a look at Japanese textiles, and nonfiction about sharks.
Today's Best Book Deals for Your Homeschool
(Prices are correct as of the time of writing, but y'all know sales move fast — check before you click the buy button! These are Amazon links — read more about how we use affiliate links to help support some of the costs of the HSL blog here.)
Never miss a deal! Sign up for an email notification every time we post here.
Because I was a Girl: True Stories for Girls of All Ages, edited by Melissa De La Cruz, $2.99. This collection of stories from girls and women who have faced obstacles because of their gender. The stories are arranged chronologically, making it easy to see how societal expectations and opportunities have changed over time. You’ll meet interesting women from many different fields — astronauts, writers, military members, religious professionals, and more.
Emperors of the Deep: Sharks — The Ocean’s Most Mysterious, Most Misunderstood, and Most Important Guardians, by William McKeever, $1.99. McKeever is determined to clear up misconceptions and dispel fear about sharks. He goes into great detail about tiger, hammerhead, mako, and great white sharks. This book is part scientific exploration, part plea for conservation of this misunderstood creature.
Make & Mend: Sashiko-Inspired Embroidery Projects to Customize and Repair Textiles and Decorate Your Home, by Jessica Marquez, $1.99. Japan has a lovely culture of visible mending and textile reuse. Marquez has created this guide in an attempt to make these techniques accessible to American crafters. Beginners can jump in with confidence. The projects include original embroidery as well as decorative repairs, and all instructions have extensive color illustrations.
STILL ON SALE
The Secret History of the Mongol Queens: How the Daughters of Genghis Khan Rescued His Empire, by Jack Weatherford, $1.99. Our first Women’s History Month pick! You’ve probably heard of Genghis Khan and his massive empire, but do you know what happened after his conquest? Here’s what the publisher says: “The Mongol queens of the thirteenth century ruled the largest empire the world has ever known. The daughters of the Silk Route turned their father’s conquests into the first truly international empire, fostering trade, education, and religion throughout their territories and creating an economic system that stretched from the Pacific to the Mediterranean. Yet sometime near the end of the century, censors cut a section about the queens from the Secret History of the Mongols, and, with that one act, the dynasty of these royals had seemingly been extinguished forever, as even their names were erased from the historical record. With The Secret History of the Mongol Queens, a groundbreaking and magnificently researched narrative, Jack Weatherford restores the queens’ missing chapter to the annals of history.”
Grammar Girl Presents The Ultimate Writing Guide for Students, by Mignon Fogarty, $3.99. Grammar Girl was one of the first podcasts I ever listened to, and I’ve enjoyed Mignon Fogarty for more than a decade. This book is a compilation of her helpful grammar advice written for middle- and high-school students. She covers everything from parts of speech to frequently misused words to guidelines for letter writing.
Legend, by Marie Lu, $1.99. Looking for a YA dystopian novel? This fast-paced novel told in alternating perspectives will keep you turning the pages. I enjoyed this one and read it all in a day because I couldn’t put it down. It’s the first in a trilogy that is now complete, so you’ll be able to dive deeply into this environment. Here’s the publisher’s summary: “What was once the western United States is now home to the Republic, a nation perpetually at war with its neighbors. Born into an elite family in one of the Republic's wealthiest districts, fifteen-year-old June is a prodigy being groomed for success in the Republic's highest military circles. Born into the slums, fifteen-year-old Day is the country's most wanted criminal. But his motives may not be as malicious as they seem. From very different worlds, June and Day have no reason to cross paths - until the day June's brother, Metias, is murdered and Day becomes the prime suspect. Caught in the ultimate game of cat and mouse, Day is in a race for his family's survival, while June seeks to avenge Metias's death. But in a shocking turn of events, the two uncover the truth of what has really brought them together, and the sinister lengths their country will go to keep its secrets.”
Invisible Women: Data Bias in a World Designed for Men, by Caroline Criado Perez, $2.99. Without a doubt, this is the most important book I read in 2019. Even in the 21st Century, most researchers do not collect data on women, or they average the data of women and men. This means that car safety features, medications, and even urban planning fail to adequately meet women’s needs. This book is fascinating and, frankly, infuriating. This is a must read.
El Deafo, by CeCe Bell, $2.99. Being different isn't always easy. When Cece Bell loses her hearing, she has to learn how to navigate the world in all new ways, including wearing a cutting-edge 1970s hearing aid and figuring out how to make friends when she can't always hear what people are saying—or when she hears too much. Cece is a likable, friendly character, and her story—part memoir, part graphic novel—is one that almost every middle schooler can relate to. This is one of the graphic novels designed specifically for the Kindle, so you don't have to worry about weird formatting issues.
Pocket Companion to Narnia: A Magical Guide to the World of C.S. Lewis, by Paul F. Ford, $4.99. The world of Narnia spans many generations and dozens of characters. This small volume offers an alphabetical listing of places, people, events, and more. The handy reference will help the both Narnia-lovers and newbies to keep all the details straight.
A Friend for Henry, by Jenn Bailey, $1.99. Henry sees the world a bit differently from many kids, and he worries about making friends. This sweet picture book about new beginnings never mentions autism by name in the text, though Henry’s thought patterns and sensory sensitivities fit that description. Share this book with the small people in your life.
Math Magic: How to Master Everyday Math Problems, by Scott Flansburg, $1.99. Is there someone in your life who is a little math-phobic? This book may help by offering a fresh perspective and some tricks for making calculations easier. Topics include addition, fractions, multiplication, cube roots, tax and tips, and even a little bit of algebra. The tone is geared toward older kids and adults who need a confidence boost.
Front Desk, by Kelly Yang, $4.99. My daughter and I loved this book so much. When 10-year-old Mia’s family takes a job managing a motel, they quickly discover that the owner expects lots of work for very little pay. Determined to take some of the burden off of her parents, Mia takes on front desk duty when she comes home from school. Soon, Mia is keeping lots of secrets — the needy immigrants that her parents are hiding in unused hotel rooms, the reasons she can’t hang out with friends after school, and even her secret dream of becoming a writer. Grab this one now! The sequel is coming out later this year.
Well-Read Black Girl, by Glory Edim, $4.99. This anthology looks awesome. From the publisher: “Remember that moment when you first encountered a character who seemed to be written just for you? That feeling of belonging remains with readers the rest of their lives—but not everyone regularly sees themselves in the pages of a book. In this timely anthology, Glory Edim brings together original essays by some of our best black women writers to shine a light on how important it is that we all—regardless of gender, race, religion, or ability—have the opportunity to find ourselves in literature.”
How Plants Work: The Science Behind the Amazing Things Plants Do, by Linda Chalker-Scott, $1.99. This book is designed for gardeners, but it is full of interesting information even if you have more of a black thumb than a green one. Chalker-Scott is an expert in plant physiology, and instead of just giving gardening advice (when to plant, where to prune, etc.), she uses her knowledge to explain why each practice matters.
Foundations of Comic Book Art: Fundamental Tool and Techniques for Sequential Artists, by John Paul Lowe, $4.99. If you or your child has been looking for a truly in-depth guide to comic book creation, this is the text you need. Lowe covers all the steps in the creation process, from sketching to storyboarding to digitizing with copious illustrations and examples.
The Brave Learner, by Julie Bogart, $4.99. It’s rare to find a deal on a book about homeschooling, particularly a book that I actually love. Julie Bogart is the encouraging mentor and friend every homeschooling parent needs. In The Brave Learner, Bogart expands the principles of her Brave Writer language arts program to offer suggestions for creating a joyful and child-centered homeschooling life in all subjects. Let Julie inspire you to bring enchantment into your education.
Get Up, Stand Up, by Bob Marley and Cedella Marley, $1.99. This beautiful picture book combines the words of Bob Marley’s classic song with lovely illustrations that tell a story of bullying and friendship. Though intended for the very young, this book would be a great book to get older kids talking about the power of music or the ways pictures can tell a story.
Unseen: Unpublished Black History from The New York Times Photo Archives, by Dana Canedy, Damien Cave, Rachel L. Swarns, and Darcy Eveleigh, $3.99. News is being made all around us, but not every story makes it into the printed record of history. New York Times photo editor Darcy Eveleigh discovered dozens of unprinted photos in the newspaper’s archives. With the help of her colleagues, Eveleigh researched the context of these photos and brought new stories to light. You’ll find unseen sides of familiar faces and entirely new tales from history.
The Periodic Table: A Field Guide to the Elements, by Paul Parsons and Gail Dixon, $3.99. This vibrant and careful guide to all the elements in the periodic table will intrigue budding chemists and anyone who wants to understand how things work. Lots of vivid illustrations of the elements in their various forms round out the dense but accessible text.
A Weird and Wild Beauty: The Story of Yellowstone, The World’s First National Park, by Erin Peabody, $1.99. Yellowstone is a place like few others in the world, and this book traces its fascinating history. This book, aimed at teens to adults, covers the park’s discovery, the protection act that created the first national park, and the science and nature that make Yellowstone so unique. Copious historical and current photos enhance the reading experience.
Josephine: The Dazzling Life of Josephine Baker, by Patricia Hruby Powell and Christian Robinson, $1.99. This lovely children’s biography of Josephine Baker covers both her performance career and her civil rights work. It is written in a jazz-style poetry that calls to mind the 1920s. The simple, vivid illustrations won the Coretta Scott King Honor distinction.
Science in Seconds: 200 Key Concepts Explained in an Instant, by Hazel Muir, $1.99. This illustrated guide to scientific concepts explains everything from thermodynamics to the Doppler effect. It’s an excellent resource for when you need a refresher or a way to answer a homework question.
In Progress: Seeing Inside a Lettering Artist’s Sketchbook and Process, from Pencil to Vector, by Jessica Hische, $2.99. I love to learn about how things are made, and this peek into a lettering artist’s work process is really fascinating to me. This is a great introduction to the terminology, tools, and business of lettering. You’ll enjoy this look behind the scenes even if you, like me, have no talent for fancy handwriting.
Super Graphic: A Visual Guide to the Comic Book Universe, by Tim Leong, $1.99. If you love comic books, this is the book for you. If you know very little about superheroes but enjoy infographics, this is also the book for you. Tim Leong breaks down the world of superheroes and supervillians by color, geographic area, height, weight, and more.
Binti, by Nnedi Okorafor, $1.99. This sci-fi novella introduces an exciting new universe. Binti, a Himba tribeswoman, is the first of her people to gain admission to a galactic university. Against her family’s wishes, she leaves her desert home to pursue higher education. A disaster on her transport ship has profound impacts on Binti’s future. This book is beautifully written and a whirlwind of activity. It’s short, but it packs a punch.
How to Draw Fantasy Art and RPG Maps: Step by Step Cartography for Gamers and Fans, by Jared Blando, $4.99. I’m a big fan of meeting kids where they are to sneak in some meaningful learning. In creating a fantasy world and building an accurate map, budding cartographers will have a crash course in geography. The book offers good starting points for discussion of geographic features, cities and transportation, political history, and heraldry. The excellent and varied illustrations break the complex process into manageable steps.
Enlightenment Now, by Steven Pinker, $1.99. This is a great deal on a massive, informative book, so snap it up! It is very easy to get stuck in thinking about all of the problems and disasters facing the modern world. Pinker uses meticulous sociological research to show that human conditions have been steadily improving since the Enlightenment. Far from resting on laurels, Pinker encourages readers to continue embracing reason and science to defend the world against the ever-encroaching tribalism, demagoguery, and fatalism that also seem to be a persistent part of human nature.
A Crazy-Much Love, by Joy Jordan-Lake, $1.99. This sweet picture book tells the story of an international adoption and many milestones that follow in a young girl’s family.
George, by Alex Gino, $3.99. George may look like a boy, but she knows she is really a girl. Determined to win the role of Charlotte in her school play of Charlotte’s Web, she sets out to make sure everyone else can see her the way she sees herself. Books that address the experiences of transgender tweens are rare, and this one does it well, so snag it for your middle-grade reader.
Challenge Accepted! 253 Steps to Becoming an Anti-It Girl, by Celeste Barber, $1.99. You may have seen Australian actor and comedian Celeste Barber’s hilarious Instagram photos attempting to copy ridiculous celebrity poses. If you’re interested in her take on childbirth, what it’s like to share so much of her life on the internet, body image, and more, this book is a breezy, laugh-out-loud read. Note: If you are squeamish about crude language, this may not be the book for you.
The Blue Sword, by Robin McKinley, $1.99. From our Adventure and Suspense reading list: Orphaned girl Harry Crewe is living a perfectly ordinary life — until the day she is kidnapped by the king of the Hillfolk to fulfill a destiny she never imagined. Is Harry really a true warrior who can wield the legendary blue sword? And even if she is, will she believe in herself enough to seize her fate?
Waiting, by Kevin Henkes, $1.99. This sweet picture book captures the emotional essence of childhood. Five toys sit by a window, each waiting for something different to happen. Simple, but resonant text and warm illustrations make this a delightful read.
The Stuff of Thought: Language as a Window into Human Nature, by Steven Pinker, $4.99. This book is fascinating and long. I bought it when I couldn’t finish my library copy in time (and I wanted to be able to refer to it again). Word nerds and anthropology fans will love this genre mashup. Find out what the words people use for swearing, humor, and metaphor say about us as human beings.
From the Corner of the Oval, by Beck Dorey-Stein, $4.99. This dishy political memoir describes the Obama White House from an unusual perspective, that of one of his twenty-something stenographers. Dorey-Stein came to the job with no political experience and got thrown into the deep end. The New York Times called this “Bridget Jones goes to the White House” — how can you pass that up?
Inside Out and Back Again, by Thanhha Lai, $1.99. From our big immigration stories reading list (winter 2017): “When Hà’s family flees Vietnam to escape the war there, she finds it difficult to adjust to a very different kind of life in Alabama. Told in spare, simple verse, this book packs an emotional wallop and allows kids to slip inside the first person experience of being a stranger in a strange land.”
This Book is Grey, by Lindsay Ward, $1.99. The other colors aren’t always friendly to Grey, and he just wants to fit in. He decides to make his own book of awesome things that are grey (hippos, clouds, kittens, etc.), but the other colors are not so enthusiastic. This is a story about fitting in, being true to yourself, and a little bit of color theory.
Kindle Deals for March 3, 2020
Welcome to Women’s History Month! We are featuring a book about a lesser-known period of Asian history, a book by a female podcast pioneer, and a fast-paced YA novel with a strong female heroine.
Today's Best Book Deals for Your Homeschool
(Prices are correct as of the time of writing, but y'all know sales move fast — check before you click the buy button! These are Amazon links — read more about how we use affiliate links to help support some of the costs of the HSL blog here.)
Never miss a deal! Sign up for an email notification every time we post here.
The Secret History of the Mongol Queens: How the Daughters of Genghis Khan Rescued His Empire, by Jack Weatherford, $1.99. Our first Women’s History Month pick! You’ve probably heard of Genghis Khan and his massive empire, but do you know what happened after his conquest? Here’s what the publisher says: “The Mongol queens of the thirteenth century ruled the largest empire the world has ever known. The daughters of the Silk Route turned their father’s conquests into the first truly international empire, fostering trade, education, and religion throughout their territories and creating an economic system that stretched from the Pacific to the Mediterranean. Yet sometime near the end of the century, censors cut a section about the queens from the Secret History of the Mongols, and, with that one act, the dynasty of these royals had seemingly been extinguished forever, as even their names were erased from the historical record. With The Secret History of the Mongol Queens, a groundbreaking and magnificently researched narrative, Jack Weatherford restores the queens’ missing chapter to the annals of history.”
Grammar Girl Presents The Ultimate Writing Guide for Students, by Mignon Fogarty, $3.99. Grammar Girl was one of the first podcasts I ever listened to, and I’ve enjoyed Mignon Fogarty for more than a decade. This book is a compilation of her helpful grammar advice written for middle- and high-school students. She covers everything from parts of speech to frequently misused words to guidelines for letter writing.
Legend, by Marie Lu, $1.99. Looking for a YA dystopian novel? This fast-paced novel told in alternating perspectives will keep you turning the pages. I enjoyed this one and read it all in a day because I couldn’t put it down. It’s the first in a trilogy that is now complete, so you’ll be able to dive deeply into this environment. Here’s the publisher’s summary: “What was once the western United States is now home to the Republic, a nation perpetually at war with its neighbors. Born into an elite family in one of the Republic's wealthiest districts, fifteen-year-old June is a prodigy being groomed for success in the Republic's highest military circles. Born into the slums, fifteen-year-old Day is the country's most wanted criminal. But his motives may not be as malicious as they seem. From very different worlds, June and Day have no reason to cross paths - until the day June's brother, Metias, is murdered and Day becomes the prime suspect. Caught in the ultimate game of cat and mouse, Day is in a race for his family's survival, while June seeks to avenge Metias's death. But in a shocking turn of events, the two uncover the truth of what has really brought them together, and the sinister lengths their country will go to keep its secrets.”
STILL ON SALE
Invisible Women: Data Bias in a World Designed for Men, by Caroline Criado Perez, $2.99. Without a doubt, this is the most important book I read in 2019. Even in the 21st Century, most researchers do not collect data on women, or they average the data of women and men. This means that car safety features, medications, and even urban planning fail to adequately meet women’s needs. This book is fascinating and, frankly, infuriating. This is a must read.
El Deafo, by CeCe Bell, $2.99. Being different isn't always easy. When Cece Bell loses her hearing, she has to learn how to navigate the world in all new ways, including wearing a cutting-edge 1970s hearing aid and figuring out how to make friends when she can't always hear what people are saying—or when she hears too much. Cece is a likable, friendly character, and her story—part memoir, part graphic novel—is one that almost every middle schooler can relate to. This is one of the graphic novels designed specifically for the Kindle, so you don't have to worry about weird formatting issues.
Pocket Companion to Narnia: A Magical Guide to the World of C.S. Lewis, by Paul F. Ford, $4.99. The world of Narnia spans many generations and dozens of characters. This small volume offers an alphabetical listing of places, people, events, and more. The handy reference will help the both Narnia-lovers and newbies to keep all the details straight.
A Friend for Henry, by Jenn Bailey, $1.99. Henry sees the world a bit differently from many kids, and he worries about making friends. This sweet picture book about new beginnings never mentions autism by name in the text, though Henry’s thought patterns and sensory sensitivities fit that description. Share this book with the small people in your life.
Math Magic: How to Master Everyday Math Problems, by Scott Flansburg, $1.99. Is there someone in your life who is a little math-phobic? This book may help by offering a fresh perspective and some tricks for making calculations easier. Topics include addition, fractions, multiplication, cube roots, tax and tips, and even a little bit of algebra. The tone is geared toward older kids and adults who need a confidence boost.
Under Rose-Tainted Skies, by Louise Gornall, $2.99. This novel’s heroine has challenges not often seen in YA literature, and I’m excited to read it. Here’s the publisher’s description: “Norah has agoraphobia and OCD. When groceries are left on the porch, she can’t step out to get them. Struggling to snag the bags with a stick, she meets Luke. He’s sweet and funny, and he just caught her fishing for groceries. Because of course he did. Norah can’t leave the house, but can she let someone in? As their friendship grows deeper, Norah realizes Luke deserves a normal girl. One who can lie on the front lawn and look up at the stars. One who isn’t so screwed up. Readers themselves will fall in love with Norah in this poignant, humorous, and deeply engaging portrait of a teen struggling to find the strength to face her demons.”
Front Desk, by Kelly Yang, $4.99. My daughter and I loved this book so much. When 10-year-old Mia’s family takes a job managing a motel, they quickly discover that the owner expects lots of work for very little pay. Determined to take some of the burden off of her parents, Mia takes on front desk duty when she comes home from school. Soon, Mia is keeping lots of secrets — the needy immigrants that her parents are hiding in unused hotel rooms, the reasons she can’t hang out with friends after school, and even her secret dream of becoming a writer. Grab this one now! The sequel is coming out later this year.
Well-Read Black Girl, by Glory Edim, $4.99. This anthology looks awesome. From the publisher: “Remember that moment when you first encountered a character who seemed to be written just for you? That feeling of belonging remains with readers the rest of their lives—but not everyone regularly sees themselves in the pages of a book. In this timely anthology, Glory Edim brings together original essays by some of our best black women writers to shine a light on how important it is that we all—regardless of gender, race, religion, or ability—have the opportunity to find ourselves in literature.”
How Plants Work: The Science Behind the Amazing Things Plants Do, by Linda Chalker-Scott, $1.99. This book is designed for gardeners, but it is full of interesting information even if you have more of a black thumb than a green one. Chalker-Scott is an expert in plant physiology, and instead of just giving gardening advice (when to plant, where to prune, etc.), she uses her knowledge to explain why each practice matters.
Foundations of Comic Book Art: Fundamental Tool and Techniques for Sequential Artists, by John Paul Lowe, $4.99. If you or your child has been looking for a truly in-depth guide to comic book creation, this is the text you need. Lowe covers all the steps in the creation process, from sketching to storyboarding to digitizing with copious illustrations and examples.
The Brave Learner, by Julie Bogart, $4.99. It’s rare to find a deal on a book about homeschooling, particularly a book that I actually love. Julie Bogart is the encouraging mentor and friend every homeschooling parent needs. In The Brave Learner, Bogart expands the principles of her Brave Writer language arts program to offer suggestions for creating a joyful and child-centered homeschooling life in all subjects. Let Julie inspire you to bring enchantment into your education.
Get Up, Stand Up, by Bob Marley and Cedella Marley, $1.99. This beautiful picture book combines the words of Bob Marley’s classic song with lovely illustrations that tell a story of bullying and friendship. Though intended for the very young, this book would be a great book to get older kids talking about the power of music or the ways pictures can tell a story.
Unseen: Unpublished Black History from The New York Times Photo Archives, by Dana Canedy, Damien Cave, Rachel L. Swarns, and Darcy Eveleigh, $3.99. News is being made all around us, but not every story makes it into the printed record of history. New York Times photo editor Darcy Eveleigh discovered dozens of unprinted photos in the newspaper’s archives. With the help of her colleagues, Eveleigh researched the context of these photos and brought new stories to light. You’ll find unseen sides of familiar faces and entirely new tales from history.
The Periodic Table: A Field Guide to the Elements, by Paul Parsons and Gail Dixon, $3.99. This vibrant and careful guide to all the elements in the periodic table will intrigue budding chemists and anyone who wants to understand how things work. Lots of vivid illustrations of the elements in their various forms round out the dense but accessible text.
A Weird and Wild Beauty: The Story of Yellowstone, The World’s First National Park, by Erin Peabody, $1.99. Yellowstone is a place like few others in the world, and this book traces its fascinating history. This book, aimed at teens to adults, covers the park’s discovery, the protection act that created the first national park, and the science and nature that make Yellowstone so unique. Copious historical and current photos enhance the reading experience.
Josephine: The Dazzling Life of Josephine Baker, by Patricia Hruby Powell and Christian Robinson, $1.99. This lovely children’s biography of Josephine Baker covers both her performance career and her civil rights work. It is written in a jazz-style poetry that calls to mind the 1920s. The simple, vivid illustrations won the Coretta Scott King Honor distinction.
Science in Seconds: 200 Key Concepts Explained in an Instant, by Hazel Muir, $1.99. This illustrated guide to scientific concepts explains everything from thermodynamics to the Doppler effect. It’s an excellent resource for when you need a refresher or a way to answer a homework question.
In Progress: Seeing Inside a Lettering Artist’s Sketchbook and Process, from Pencil to Vector, by Jessica Hische, $2.99. I love to learn about how things are made, and this peek into a lettering artist’s work process is really fascinating to me. This is a great introduction to the terminology, tools, and business of lettering. You’ll enjoy this look behind the scenes even if you, like me, have no talent for fancy handwriting.
Super Graphic: A Visual Guide to the Comic Book Universe, by Tim Leong, $1.99. If you love comic books, this is the book for you. If you know very little about superheroes but enjoy infographics, this is also the book for you. Tim Leong breaks down the world of superheroes and supervillians by color, geographic area, height, weight, and more.
Binti, by Nnedi Okorafor, $1.99. This sci-fi novella introduces an exciting new universe. Binti, a Himba tribeswoman, is the first of her people to gain admission to a galactic university. Against her family’s wishes, she leaves her desert home to pursue higher education. A disaster on her transport ship has profound impacts on Binti’s future. This book is beautifully written and a whirlwind of activity. It’s short, but it packs a punch.
How to Draw Fantasy Art and RPG Maps: Step by Step Cartography for Gamers and Fans, by Jared Blando, $4.99. I’m a big fan of meeting kids where they are to sneak in some meaningful learning. In creating a fantasy world and building an accurate map, budding cartographers will have a crash course in geography. The book offers good starting points for discussion of geographic features, cities and transportation, political history, and heraldry. The excellent and varied illustrations break the complex process into manageable steps.
Enlightenment Now, by Steven Pinker, $1.99. This is a great deal on a massive, informative book, so snap it up! It is very easy to get stuck in thinking about all of the problems and disasters facing the modern world. Pinker uses meticulous sociological research to show that human conditions have been steadily improving since the Enlightenment. Far from resting on laurels, Pinker encourages readers to continue embracing reason and science to defend the world against the ever-encroaching tribalism, demagoguery, and fatalism that also seem to be a persistent part of human nature.
A Crazy-Much Love, by Joy Jordan-Lake, $1.99. This sweet picture book tells the story of an international adoption and many milestones that follow in a young girl’s family.
George, by Alex Gino, $3.99. George may look like a boy, but she knows she is really a girl. Determined to win the role of Charlotte in her school play of Charlotte’s Web, she sets out to make sure everyone else can see her the way she sees herself. Books that address the experiences of transgender tweens are rare, and this one does it well, so snag it for your middle-grade reader.
Challenge Accepted! 253 Steps to Becoming an Anti-It Girl, by Celeste Barber, $1.99. You may have seen Australian actor and comedian Celeste Barber’s hilarious Instagram photos attempting to copy ridiculous celebrity poses. If you’re interested in her take on childbirth, what it’s like to share so much of her life on the internet, body image, and more, this book is a breezy, laugh-out-loud read. Note: If you are squeamish about crude language, this may not be the book for you.
The Blue Sword, by Robin McKinley, $1.99. From our Adventure and Suspense reading list: Orphaned girl Harry Crewe is living a perfectly ordinary life — until the day she is kidnapped by the king of the Hillfolk to fulfill a destiny she never imagined. Is Harry really a true warrior who can wield the legendary blue sword? And even if she is, will she believe in herself enough to seize her fate?
Waiting, by Kevin Henkes, $1.99. This sweet picture book captures the emotional essence of childhood. Five toys sit by a window, each waiting for something different to happen. Simple, but resonant text and warm illustrations make this a delightful read.
The Stuff of Thought: Language as a Window into Human Nature, by Steven Pinker, $4.99. This book is fascinating and long. I bought it when I couldn’t finish my library copy in time (and I wanted to be able to refer to it again). Word nerds and anthropology fans will love this genre mashup. Find out what the words people use for swearing, humor, and metaphor say about us as human beings.
From the Corner of the Oval, by Beck Dorey-Stein, $4.99. This dishy political memoir describes the Obama White House from an unusual perspective, that of one of his twenty-something stenographers. Dorey-Stein came to the job with no political experience and got thrown into the deep end. The New York Times called this “Bridget Jones goes to the White House” — how can you pass that up?
Inside Out and Back Again, by Thanhha Lai, $1.99. From our big immigration stories reading list (winter 2017): “When Hà’s family flees Vietnam to escape the war there, she finds it difficult to adjust to a very different kind of life in Alabama. Told in spare, simple verse, this book packs an emotional wallop and allows kids to slip inside the first person experience of being a stranger in a strange land.”
This Book is Grey, by Lindsay Ward, $1.99. The other colors aren’t always friendly to Grey, and he just wants to fit in. He decides to make his own book of awesome things that are grey (hippos, clouds, kittens, etc.), but the other colors are not so enthusiastic. This is a story about fitting in, being true to yourself, and a little bit of color theory.
Kindle Deals for February 26, 2020
Today’s deals include my favorite book from last year, one of my daughter’s favorite graphic novels, and a great guide to African American actors and filmmakers.
Today's Best Book Deals for Your Homeschool
(Prices are correct as of the time of writing, but y'all know sales move fast — check before you click the buy button! These are Amazon links — read more about how we use affiliate links to help support some of the costs of the HSL blog here.)
Never miss a deal! Sign up for an email notification every time we post here.
Invisible Women: Data Bias in a World Designed for Men, by Caroline Criado Perez, $2.99. Without a doubt, this is the most important book I read in 2019. Even in the 21st Century, most researchers do not collect data on women, or they average the data of women and men. This means that car safety features, medications, and even urban planning fail to adequately meet women’s needs. This book is fascinating and, frankly, infuriating. This is a must read.
El Deafo, by CeCe Bell, $2.99. Being different isn't always easy. When Cece Bell loses her hearing, she has to learn how to navigate the world in all new ways, including wearing a cutting-edge 1970s hearing aid and figuring out how to make friends when she can't always hear what people are saying—or when she hears too much. Cece is a likable, friendly character, and her story—part memoir, part graphic novel—is one that almost every middle schooler can relate to. This is one of the graphic novels designed specifically for the Kindle, so you don't have to worry about weird formatting issues.
Hollywood Black: The Stars, The Films, The Filmmakers, by Donald Bogle, $3.99. This big, picture-filled book highlights 100 years of African Americans in the filmmaking business. You are sure to discover (or rediscover) amazing movies and stories from behind the scenes.
STILL ON SALE
Pocket Companion to Narnia: A Magical Guide to the World of C.S. Lewis, by Paul F. Ford, $4.99. The world of Narnia spans many generations and dozens of characters. This small volume offers an alphabetical listing of places, people, events, and more. The handy reference will help the both Narnia-lovers and newbies to keep all the details straight.
Nimona, by Noelle Stevenson, $1.99. I’ve loved everything Noelle Stevenson has created. She does an excellent job of creating complex, brave female characters. Nimona is a shape-shifter who is the assistant to a supervillain, Lord Blackheart. Together, they set off to prove that the local “heroes” aren’t so wonderful after all. If you love graphic novels, unusual heroines, or fantasy, this book is for you.
March Forward, Girl: From Young Warrior to Little Rock Nine, by Melba Pattillo Beals, $2.99. This middle-grade memoir will give kids a first-hand account of the Civil Rights Movement and what it felt like to be a part of the first desegregation efforts. From the publisher: “Long before she was one of the Little Rock Nine, Melba Pattillo Beals was a warrior. Frustrated by the laws that kept African-Americans separate but very much unequal to whites, she had questions. Why couldn’t she drink from a "whites only" fountain? Why couldn’t she feel safe beyond home—or even within the walls of church? Adults all told her: Hold your tongue. Be patient. Know your place. But Beals had the heart of a fighter—and the knowledge that her true place was a free one. Combined with emotive drawings and photos, this memoir paints a vivid picture of Beals’ powerful early journey on the road to becoming a champion for equal rights, an acclaimed journalist, a best-selling author, and the recipient of this country’s highest recognition, the Congressional Gold Medal.”
A Friend for Henry, by Jenn Bailey, $1.99. Henry sees the world a bit differently from many kids, and he worries about making friends. This sweet picture book about new beginnings never mentions autism by name in the text, though Henry’s thought patterns and sensory sensitivities fit that description. Share this book with the small people in your life.
Math Magic: How to Master Everyday Math Problems, by Scott Flansburg, $1.99. Is there someone in your life who is a little math-phobic? This book may help by offering a fresh perspective and some tricks for making calculations easier. Topics include addition, fractions, multiplication, cube roots, tax and tips, and even a little bit of algebra. The tone is geared toward older kids and adults who need a confidence boost.
Under Rose-Tainted Skies, by Louise Gornall, $2.99. This novel’s heroine has challenges not often seen in YA literature, and I’m excited to read it. Here’s the publisher’s description: “Norah has agoraphobia and OCD. When groceries are left on the porch, she can’t step out to get them. Struggling to snag the bags with a stick, she meets Luke. He’s sweet and funny, and he just caught her fishing for groceries. Because of course he did. Norah can’t leave the house, but can she let someone in? As their friendship grows deeper, Norah realizes Luke deserves a normal girl. One who can lie on the front lawn and look up at the stars. One who isn’t so screwed up. Readers themselves will fall in love with Norah in this poignant, humorous, and deeply engaging portrait of a teen struggling to find the strength to face her demons.”
I’m Not Dying With You Tonight, by Kimberly Jones and Gilly Segal, $2.99. Two girls from very different backgrounds are thrown together when violence erupts in their city. The fast-paced story enfolds over one dangerous night, and the alternating narrator format allows issues of race and privilege to be addressed without feeling manipulative. Appropriate for high school students.
Front Desk, by Kelly Yang, $4.99. My daughter and I loved this book so much. When 10-year-old Mia’s family takes a job managing a motel, they quickly discover that the owner expects lots of work for very little pay. Determined to take some of the burden off of her parents, Mia takes on front desk duty when she comes home from school. Soon, Mia is keeping lots of secrets — the needy immigrants that her parents are hiding in unused hotel rooms, the reasons she can’t hang out with friends after school, and even her secret dream of becoming a writer. Grab this one now! The sequel is coming out later this year.
Well-Read Black Girl, by Glory Edim, $4.99. This anthology looks awesome. From the publisher: “Remember that moment when you first encountered a character who seemed to be written just for you? That feeling of belonging remains with readers the rest of their lives—but not everyone regularly sees themselves in the pages of a book. In this timely anthology, Glory Edim brings together original essays by some of our best black women writers to shine a light on how important it is that we all—regardless of gender, race, religion, or ability—have the opportunity to find ourselves in literature.”
Bellwether Rhapsody, by Kate Racculia, $2.99. Bellwether Rhapsody has won an ALEX award, which is given to a book that is written for adults but has special appeal for readers from ages 12 to 18. This twisty tale of a group of high school musicians snowed in at a hotel with a mysterious past will entertain readers young and old.
How Plants Work: The Science Behind the Amazing Things Plants Do, by Linda Chalker-Scott, $1.99. This book is designed for gardeners, but it is full of interesting information even if you have more of a black thumb than a green one. Chalker-Scott is an expert in plant physiology, and instead of just giving gardening advice (when to plant, where to prune, etc.), she uses her knowledge to explain why each practice matters.
Conversations with Myself, by Nelson Mandela, $3.99. This collection of private writing by Nelson Mandela includes excerpts from his journals, drafts of speeches, notes from important conversations, and more. The documents span Mandela’s career and offer a glimpse into the personal, human side of a tremendous public figure.
Foundations of Comic Book Art: Fundamental Tool and Techniques for Sequential Artists, by John Paul Lowe, $4.99. If you or your child has been looking for a truly in-depth guide to comic book creation, this is the text you need. Lowe covers all the steps in the creation process, from sketching to storyboarding to digitizing with copious illustrations and examples.
The Brave Learner, by Julie Bogart, $4.99. It’s rare to find a deal on a book about homeschooling, particularly a book that I actually love. Julie Bogart is the encouraging mentor and friend every homeschooling parent needs. In The Brave Learner, Bogart expands the principles of her Brave Writer language arts program to offer suggestions for creating a joyful and child-centered homeschooling life in all subjects. Let Julie inspire you to bring enchantment into your education.
The Oregon Trail: The Race to Chimney Rock, by Jesse Wiley, $2.99. It’s time to introduce the magical 80s computer game The Oregon Trail to a younger generation, this time as a choose-you-own-adventure novel series! Upper elementary kids will love these historical adventures. And don’t worry, just like in the computer games, most of the choices still end in death.
Get Up, Stand Up, by Bob Marley and Cedella Marley, $1.99. This beautiful picture book combines the words of Bob Marley’s classic song with lovely illustrations that tell a story of bullying and friendship. Though intended for the very young, this book would be a great book to get older kids talking about the power of music or the ways pictures can tell a story.
Unseen: Unpublished Black History from The New York Times Photo Archives, by Dana Canedy, Damien Cave, Rachel L. Swarns, and Darcy Eveleigh, $3.99. News is being made all around us, but not every story makes it into the printed record of history. New York Times photo editor Darcy Eveleigh discovered dozens of unprinted photos in the newspaper’s archives. With the help of her colleagues, Eveleigh researched the context of these photos and brought new stories to light. You’ll find unseen sides of familiar faces and entirely new tales from history.
Aerial Geology, by Mary Caperton Morton, $2.99. Have you ever looked out the windows of an airplane and marveled at the shapes of the land below? This book visits remarkable places in North America from above to show how geologic concepts are written in the surface of the earth. Written for adults but easily accessible to interested children, this book is a great jumping off point for a deeper study of earth science. Definitely view the pictures on a full-color screen, if possible, or consider splurging on the gorgeous hardcover.
Betty Before X, by Ilyasah Shabazz and Renee Watson, $2.99. This book, which was featured in several Best Children’s Books of 2018 lists, tells a story of the Civil Rights movement through the eyes of Malcolm X’s daughter, Betty. The 11-year-old’s unique perspective will help middle-grade readers engage with the historical details in a deeper way.
The Periodic Table: A Field Guide to the Elements, by Paul Parsons and Gail Dixon, $3.99. This vibrant and careful guide to all the elements in the periodic table will intrigue budding chemists and anyone who wants to understand how things work. Lots of vivid illustrations of the elements in their various forms round out the dense but accessible text.
And Still I Rise: Black America Since MLK, by Henry L. Gates and Kevin M. Burke, $2.99. Harvard Professor Henry Louis Gates considers the highs and lows of Black History in the last 50 years. This book is a companion to a compelling PBS series and is full of engaging pictures.
The Cooking Gene: A Journey Through African American Culinary History in the Old South, by Michael W. Twitty, $1.99. Whether you love Southern cooking or know nothing about it, you will definitely be interested what Twitty has to say. As he tells the story of how traditional cuisine developed, he takes on slavery, racism, class, and religion.
A Weird and Wild Beauty: The Story of Yellowstone, The World’s First National Park, by Erin Peabody, $1.99. Yellowstone is a place like few others in the world, and this book traces its fascinating history. This book, aimed at teens to adults, covers the park’s discovery, the protection act that created the first national park, and the science and nature that make Yellowstone so unique. Copious historical and current photos enhance the reading experience.
Lintang and the Pirate Queen, by Tamara Moss, $2.99. This middle-grade fantasy novel is perhaps better known in Australia, where it was initially published. I love all the strong female characters. Here’s how the publisher describes it: “Lintang is an island girl who longs for daring and danger. When she meets the feared pirate Captain Shafira and her all-female crew, Lintang is determined to join them. Secrets within secrets, life-or-death battles with spectacular monsters, and hair’s breadth escapes keep readers turning the pages of a story populated by women of color who are fighters, adventurers, and leaders.”
How to Read Poetry Like a Professor: A Quippy and Sonorous Guide to Verse, by Thomas C. Foster, $1.99. Poetry doesn’t have to be intimidating. This guide to understanding the meanings of poems will help teens and adults find the beauty in verse. Along the way, Foster introduces and explains all the language scholars use to talk about poetry — meter, figurative language, rhyme structure, and more.
Josephine: The Dazzling Life of Josephine Baker, by Patricia Hruby Powell and Christian Robinson, $1.99. This lovely children’s biography of Josephine Baker covers both her performance career and her civil rights work. It is written in a jazz-style poetry that calls to mind the 1920s. The simple, vivid illustrations won the Coretta Scott King Honor distinction.
Science in Seconds: 200 Key Concepts Explained in an Instant, by Hazel Muir, $1.99. This illustrated guide to scientific concepts explains everything from thermodynamics to the Doppler effect. It’s an excellent resource for when you need a refresher or a way to answer a homework question.
In Progress: Seeing Inside a Lettering Artist’s Sketchbook and Process, from Pencil to Vector, by Jessica Hische, $2.99. I love to learn about how things are made, and this peek into a lettering artist’s work process is really fascinating to me. This is a great introduction to the terminology, tools, and business of lettering. You’ll enjoy this look behind the scenes even if you, like me, have no talent for fancy handwriting.
Super Graphic: A Visual Guide to the Comic Book Universe, by Tim Leong, $1.99. If you love comic books, this is the book for you. If you know very little about superheroes but enjoy infographics, this is also the book for you. Tim Leong breaks down the world of superheroes and supervillians by color, geographic area, height, weight, and more.
Binti, by Nnedi Okorafor, $1.99. This sci-fi novella introduces an exciting new universe. Binti, a Himba tribeswoman, is the first of her people to gain admission to a galactic university. Against her family’s wishes, she leaves her desert home to pursue higher education. A disaster on her transport ship has profound impacts on Binti’s future. This book is beautifully written and a whirlwind of activity. It’s short, but it packs a punch.
How to Draw Fantasy Art and RPG Maps: Step by Step Cartography for Gamers and Fans, by Jared Blando, $4.99. I’m a big fan of meeting kids where they are to sneak in some meaningful learning. In creating a fantasy world and building an accurate map, budding cartographers will have a crash course in geography. The book offers good starting points for discussion of geographic features, cities and transportation, political history, and heraldry. The excellent and varied illustrations break the complex process into manageable steps.
Enlightenment Now, by Steven Pinker, $1.99. This is a great deal on a massive, informative book, so snap it up! It is very easy to get stuck in thinking about all of the problems and disasters facing the modern world. Pinker uses meticulous sociological research to show that human conditions have been steadily improving since the Enlightenment. Far from resting on laurels, Pinker encourages readers to continue embracing reason and science to defend the world against the ever-encroaching tribalism, demagoguery, and fatalism that also seem to be a persistent part of human nature.
Paperback Crush, by Gabrielle Moss, $2.99. Calling all women in their thirties and forties! Did you go through a horse book phase in middle school? Did you morbidly rubberneck the doomed romances of terminally ill teens? This book is a love letter to the mass market teen paperbacks of the 1980s and 1990s. Revisit the extremely specific genres of books you loved but have probably forgotten.
A Crazy-Much Love, by Joy Jordan-Lake, $1.99. This sweet picture book tells the story of an international adoption and many milestones that follow in a young girl’s family.
George, by Alex Gino, $3.99. George may look like a boy, but she knows she is really a girl. Determined to win the role of Charlotte in her school play of Charlotte’s Web, she sets out to make sure everyone else can see her the way she sees herself. Books that address the experiences of transgender tweens are rare, and this one does it well, so snag it for your middle-grade reader.
Challenge Accepted! 253 Steps to Becoming an Anti-It Girl, by Celeste Barber, $1.99. You may have seen Australian actor and comedian Celeste Barber’s hilarious Instagram photos attempting to copy ridiculous celebrity poses. If you’re interested in her take on childbirth, what it’s like to share so much of her life on the internet, body image, and more, this book is a breezy, laugh-out-loud read. Note: If you are squeamish about crude language, this may not be the book for you.
The Blue Sword, by Robin McKinley, $1.99. From our Adventure and Suspense reading list: Orphaned girl Harry Crewe is living a perfectly ordinary life — until the day she is kidnapped by the king of the Hillfolk to fulfill a destiny she never imagined. Is Harry really a true warrior who can wield the legendary blue sword? And even if she is, will she believe in herself enough to seize her fate?
Waiting, by Kevin Henkes, $1.99. This sweet picture book captures the emotional essence of childhood. Five toys sit by a window, each waiting for something different to happen. Simple, but resonant text and warm illustrations make this a delightful read.
The Stuff of Thought: Language as a Window into Human Nature, by Steven Pinker, $4.99. This book is fascinating and long. I bought it when I couldn’t finish my library copy in time (and I wanted to be able to refer to it again). Word nerds and anthropology fans will love this genre mashup. Find out what the words people use for swearing, humor, and metaphor say about us as human beings.
From the Corner of the Oval, by Beck Dorey-Stein, $4.99. This dishy political memoir describes the Obama White House from an unusual perspective, that of one of his twenty-something stenographers. Dorey-Stein came to the job with no political experience and got thrown into the deep end. The New York Times called this “Bridget Jones goes to the White House” — how can you pass that up?
Inside Out and Back Again, by Thanhha Lai, $1.99. From our big immigration stories reading list (winter 2017): “When Hà’s family flees Vietnam to escape the war there, she finds it difficult to adjust to a very different kind of life in Alabama. Told in spare, simple verse, this book packs an emotional wallop and allows kids to slip inside the first person experience of being a stranger in a strange land.”
This Book is Grey, by Lindsay Ward, $1.99. The other colors aren’t always friendly to Grey, and he just wants to fit in. He decides to make his own book of awesome things that are grey (hippos, clouds, kittens, etc.), but the other colors are not so enthusiastic. This is a story about fitting in, being true to yourself, and a little bit of color theory.
Kindle Deals for February 23, 2020
Today only, you’ll find great deals on books that have inspired TV and movie adaptations.
Today's Best Book Deals for Your Homeschool
(Prices are correct as of the time of writing, but y'all know sales move fast — check before you click the buy button! These are Amazon links — read more about how we use affiliate links to help support some of the costs of the HSL blog here.)
Never miss a deal! Sign up for an email notification every time we post here.
Jumanji, by Chris Van Alsburg, $2.99. This classic tale of a board game come to life will delight readers of all ages. Van Alburg’s vivid and realistic images of animals invading the house create an extraordinary sense of magical realism.
Pocket Companion to Narnia: A Magical Guide to the World of C.S. Lewis, by Paul F. Ford, $1.99. The world of Narnia spans many generations and dozens of characters. This small volume offers an alphabetical listing of places, people, events, and more. The handy reference will help the both Narnia-lovers and newbies to keep all the details straight.
Black Klansman: Race, Hate, and the Undercover Investigation of a Lifetime, by Ron Stallworth, $2.99. This is an unbelievable true story. Ron Stallworth, a black police detective, responds to a classified ad about the KKK. To his surprise, he is contacted by phone and soon is involved in Klan activities. Recruiting a white colleague to attend in person meetings, Stallworth continues to get further involved in Klan activities from behind the scenes.
Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats, by T.S. Eliot, $2.99. The Cats movie musical may not have been a huge hit, but you can still enjoy the quirky poetry on which it was based! Eliot’s short poems describe all the different varieties of cats, from the Rum-Tum-Tugger to the Railway Cat. Charming illustrations will entertain readers young and old.
The Return of the King: Being the Third Part of the Lord of the Rings, by J.R.R. Tolkein, $2.99. The novel that ends the Lord of the Rings trilogy is on sale now. Join Aragorn, Legolas, Gandalf, and the rest of the Fellowship as they fight the ever encroaching evil of Sauron as Frodo continues his solo quest into Mordor. Tolkein’s epic conclusion does not disappoint.
Go Like Hell: Ford, Ferrari, and Their Battle for Speed and Glory at Le Mans, by A.J. Baime, $2.99. Another fascinating true story! This book, the inspiration for Ford vs. Ferrari, traces Ford’s attempt to enter the wild world of European car racing and prove the capability of American car engineering.
Leviathan Wakes, by James S.A. Corey, $3.99. Do you enjoy your sci-fi with a hearty helping of geopolitical intrigue and conspiracy theory? You might love this sweeping series, the basis for The Expanse. This huge novel is the beginning of a long series that will keep you busy for a while.
STILL ON SALE
Nimona, by Noelle Stevenson, $1.99. I’ve loved everything Noelle Stevenson has created. She does an excellent job of creating complex, brave female characters. Nimona is a shape-shifter who is the assistant to a supervillain, Lord Blackheart. Together, they set off to prove that the local “heroes” aren’t so wonderful after all. If you love graphic novels, unusual heroines, or fantasy, this book is for you.
March Forward, Girl: From Young Warrior to Little Rock Nine, by Melba Pattillo Beals, $2.99. This middle-grade memoir will give kids a first-hand account of the Civil Rights Movement and what it felt like to be a part of the first desegregation efforts. From the publisher: “Long before she was one of the Little Rock Nine, Melba Pattillo Beals was a warrior. Frustrated by the laws that kept African-Americans separate but very much unequal to whites, she had questions. Why couldn’t she drink from a "whites only" fountain? Why couldn’t she feel safe beyond home—or even within the walls of church? Adults all told her: Hold your tongue. Be patient. Know your place. But Beals had the heart of a fighter—and the knowledge that her true place was a free one. Combined with emotive drawings and photos, this memoir paints a vivid picture of Beals’ powerful early journey on the road to becoming a champion for equal rights, an acclaimed journalist, a best-selling author, and the recipient of this country’s highest recognition, the Congressional Gold Medal.”
A Friend for Henry, by Jenn Bailey, $1.99. Henry sees the world a bit differently from many kids, and he worries about making friends. This sweet picture book about new beginnings never mentions autism by name in the text, though Henry’s thought patterns and sensory sensitivities fit that description. Share this book with the small people in your life.
Math Magic: How to Master Everyday Math Problems, by Scott Flansburg, $1.99. Is there someone in your life who is a little math-phobic? This book may help by offering a fresh perspective and some tricks for making calculations easier. Topics include addition, fractions, multiplication, cube roots, tax and tips, and even a little bit of algebra. The tone is geared toward older kids and adults who need a confidence boost.
Under Rose-Tainted Skies, by Louise Gornall, $2.99. This novel’s heroine has challenges not often seen in YA literature, and I’m excited to read it. Here’s the publisher’s description: “Norah has agoraphobia and OCD. When groceries are left on the porch, she can’t step out to get them. Struggling to snag the bags with a stick, she meets Luke. He’s sweet and funny, and he just caught her fishing for groceries. Because of course he did. Norah can’t leave the house, but can she let someone in? As their friendship grows deeper, Norah realizes Luke deserves a normal girl. One who can lie on the front lawn and look up at the stars. One who isn’t so screwed up. Readers themselves will fall in love with Norah in this poignant, humorous, and deeply engaging portrait of a teen struggling to find the strength to face her demons.”
I’m Not Dying With You Tonight, by Kimberly Jones and Gilly Segal, $2.99. Two girls from very different backgrounds are thrown together when violence erupts in their city. The fast-paced story enfolds over one dangerous night, and the alternating narrator format allows issues of race and privilege to be addressed without feeling manipulative. Appropriate for high school students.
Front Desk, by Kelly Yang, $4.99. My daughter and I loved this book so much. When 10-year-old Mia’s family takes a job managing a motel, they quickly discover that the owner expects lots of work for very little pay. Determined to take some of the burden off of her parents, Mia takes on front desk duty when she comes home from school. Soon, Mia is keeping lots of secrets — the needy immigrants that her parents are hiding in unused hotel rooms, the reasons she can’t hang out with friends after school, and even her secret dream of becoming a writer. Grab this one now! The sequel is coming out later this year.
Well-Read Black Girl, by Glory Edim, $4.99. This anthology looks awesome. From the publisher: “Remember that moment when you first encountered a character who seemed to be written just for you? That feeling of belonging remains with readers the rest of their lives—but not everyone regularly sees themselves in the pages of a book. In this timely anthology, Glory Edim brings together original essays by some of our best black women writers to shine a light on how important it is that we all—regardless of gender, race, religion, or ability—have the opportunity to find ourselves in literature.”
Bellwether Rhapsody, by Kate Racculia, $2.99. Bellwether Rhapsody has won an ALEX award, which is given to a book that is written for adults but has special appeal for readers from ages 12 to 18. This twisty tale of a group of high school musicians snowed in at a hotel with a mysterious past will entertain readers young and old.
How Plants Work: The Science Behind the Amazing Things Plants Do, by Linda Chalker-Scott, $1.99. This book is designed for gardeners, but it is full of interesting information even if you have more of a black thumb than a green one. Chalker-Scott is an expert in plant physiology, and instead of just giving gardening advice (when to plant, where to prune, etc.), she uses her knowledge to explain why each practice matters.
Conversations with Myself, by Nelson Mandela, $3.99. This collection of private writing by Nelson Mandela includes excerpts from his journals, drafts of speeches, notes from important conversations, and more. The documents span Mandela’s career and offer a glimpse into the personal, human side of a tremendous public figure.
Foundations of Comic Book Art: Fundamental Tool and Techniques for Sequential Artists, by John Paul Lowe, $4.99. If you or your child has been looking for a truly in-depth guide to comic book creation, this is the text you need. Lowe covers all the steps in the creation process, from sketching to storyboarding to digitizing with copious illustrations and examples.
The Brave Learner, by Julie Bogart, $4.99. It’s rare to find a deal on a book about homeschooling, particularly a book that I actually love. Julie Bogart is the encouraging mentor and friend every homeschooling parent needs. In The Brave Learner, Bogart expands the principles of her Brave Writer language arts program to offer suggestions for creating a joyful and child-centered homeschooling life in all subjects. Let Julie inspire you to bring enchantment into your education.
The Oregon Trail: The Race to Chimney Rock, by Jesse Wiley, $2.99. It’s time to introduce the magical 80s computer game The Oregon Trail to a younger generation, this time as a choose-you-own-adventure novel series! Upper elementary kids will love these historical adventures. And don’t worry, just like in the computer games, most of the choices still end in death.
Get Up, Stand Up, by Bob Marley and Cedella Marley, $1.99. This beautiful picture book combines the words of Bob Marley’s classic song with lovely illustrations that tell a story of bullying and friendship. Though intended for the very young, this book would be a great book to get older kids talking about the power of music or the ways pictures can tell a story.
Unseen: Unpublished Black History from The New York Times Photo Archives, by Dana Canedy, Damien Cave, Rachel L. Swarns, and Darcy Eveleigh, $3.99. News is being made all around us, but not every story makes it into the printed record of history. New York Times photo editor Darcy Eveleigh discovered dozens of unprinted photos in the newspaper’s archives. With the help of her colleagues, Eveleigh researched the context of these photos and brought new stories to light. You’ll find unseen sides of familiar faces and entirely new tales from history.
Aerial Geology, by Mary Caperton Morton, $2.99. Have you ever looked out the windows of an airplane and marveled at the shapes of the land below? This book visits remarkable places in North America from above to show how geologic concepts are written in the surface of the earth. Written for adults but easily accessible to interested children, this book is a great jumping off point for a deeper study of earth science. Definitely view the pictures on a full-color screen, if possible, or consider splurging on the gorgeous hardcover.
Betty Before X, by Ilyasah Shabazz and Renee Watson, $2.99. This book, which was featured in several Best Children’s Books of 2018 lists, tells a story of the Civil Rights movement through the eyes of Malcolm X’s daughter, Betty. The 11-year-old’s unique perspective will help middle-grade readers engage with the historical details in a deeper way.
Field Notes on Love, by Jennifer E. Smith, $1.99. Celebrate Valentine’s Day with another sweet YA romance. Hugo is planning a train trip across the country with his girlfriend before he starts college. When they break up, he quickly needs to find another Margaret Campbell to take her nonrefundable ticket. The two complete strangers get to know each other on the long journey, but will their lives outside the train catch up with them?
The Periodic Table: A Field Guide to the Elements, by Paul Parsons and Gail Dixon, $3.99. This vibrant and careful guide to all the elements in the periodic table will intrigue budding chemists and anyone who wants to understand how things work. Lots of vivid illustrations of the elements in their various forms round out the dense but accessible text.
And Still I Rise: Black America Since MLK, by Henry L. Gates and Kevin M. Burke, $2.99. Harvard Professor Henry Louis Gates considers the highs and lows of Black History in the last 50 years. This book is a companion to a compelling PBS series and is full of engaging pictures.
The Cooking Gene: A Journey Through African American Culinary History in the Old South, by Michael W. Twitty, $1.99. Whether you love Southern cooking or know nothing about it, you will definitely be interested what Twitty has to say. As he tells the story of how traditional cuisine developed, he takes on slavery, racism, class, and religion.
A Weird and Wild Beauty: The Story of Yellowstone, The World’s First National Park, by Erin Peabody, $1.99. Yellowstone is a place like few others in the world, and this book traces its fascinating history. This book, aimed at teens to adults, covers the park’s discovery, the protection act that created the first national park, and the science and nature that make Yellowstone so unique. Copious historical and current photos enhance the reading experience.
Lintang and the Pirate Queen, by Tamara Moss, $2.99. This middle-grade fantasy novel is perhaps better known in Australia, where it was initially published. I love all the strong female characters. Here’s how the publisher describes it: “Lintang is an island girl who longs for daring and danger. When she meets the feared pirate Captain Shafira and her all-female crew, Lintang is determined to join them. Secrets within secrets, life-or-death battles with spectacular monsters, and hair’s breadth escapes keep readers turning the pages of a story populated by women of color who are fighters, adventurers, and leaders.”
How to Read Poetry Like a Professor: A Quippy and Sonorous Guide to Verse, by Thomas C. Foster, $1.99. Poetry doesn’t have to be intimidating. This guide to understanding the meanings of poems will help teens and adults find the beauty in verse. Along the way, Foster introduces and explains all the language scholars use to talk about poetry — meter, figurative language, rhyme structure, and more.
Josephine: The Dazzling Life of Josephine Baker, by Patricia Hruby Powell and Christian Robinson, $1.99. This lovely children’s biography of Josephine Baker covers both her performance career and her civil rights work. It is written in a jazz-style poetry that calls to mind the 1920s. The simple, vivid illustrations won the Coretta Scott King Honor distinction.
Science in Seconds: 200 Key Concepts Explained in an Instant, by Hazel Muir, $1.99. This illustrated guide to scientific concepts explains everything from thermodynamics to the Doppler effect. It’s an excellent resource for when you need a refresher or a way to answer a homework question.
In Progress: Seeing Inside a Lettering Artist’s Sketchbook and Process, from Pencil to Vector, by Jessica Hische, $2.99. I love to learn about how things are made, and this peek into a lettering artist’s work process is really fascinating to me. This is a great introduction to the terminology, tools, and business of lettering. You’ll enjoy this look behind the scenes even if you, like me, have no talent for fancy handwriting.
Super Graphic: A Visual Guide to the Comic Book Universe, by Tim Leong, $1.99. If you love comic books, this is the book for you. If you know very little about superheroes but enjoy infographics, this is also the book for you. Tim Leong breaks down the world of superheroes and supervillians by color, geographic area, height, weight, and more.
Binti, by Nnedi Okorafor, $1.99. This sci-fi novella introduces an exciting new universe. Binti, a Himba tribeswoman, is the first of her people to gain admission to a galactic university. Against her family’s wishes, she leaves her desert home to pursue higher education. A disaster on her transport ship has profound impacts on Binti’s future. This book is beautifully written and a whirlwind of activity. It’s short, but it packs a punch.
How to Draw Fantasy Art and RPG Maps: Step by Step Cartography for Gamers and Fans, by Jared Blando, $4.99. I’m a big fan of meeting kids where they are to sneak in some meaningful learning. In creating a fantasy world and building an accurate map, budding cartographers will have a crash course in geography. The book offers good starting points for discussion of geographic features, cities and transportation, political history, and heraldry. The excellent and varied illustrations break the complex process into manageable steps.
Enlightenment Now, by Steven Pinker, $1.99. This is a great deal on a massive, informative book, so snap it up! It is very easy to get stuck in thinking about all of the problems and disasters facing the modern world. Pinker uses meticulous sociological research to show that human conditions have been steadily improving since the Enlightenment. Far from resting on laurels, Pinker encourages readers to continue embracing reason and science to defend the world against the ever-encroaching tribalism, demagoguery, and fatalism that also seem to be a persistent part of human nature.
Paperback Crush, by Gabrielle Moss, $2.99. Calling all women in their thirties and forties! Did you go through a horse book phase in middle school? Did you morbidly rubberneck the doomed romances of terminally ill teens? This book is a love letter to the mass market teen paperbacks of the 1980s and 1990s. Revisit the extremely specific genres of books you loved but have probably forgotten.
A Crazy-Much Love, by Joy Jordan-Lake, $1.99. This sweet picture book tells the story of an international adoption and many milestones that follow in a young girl’s family.
George, by Alex Gino, $3.99. George may look like a boy, but she knows she is really a girl. Determined to win the role of Charlotte in her school play of Charlotte’s Web, she sets out to make sure everyone else can see her the way she sees herself. Books that address the experiences of transgender tweens are rare, and this one does it well, so snag it for your middle-grade reader.
Challenge Accepted! 253 Steps to Becoming an Anti-It Girl, by Celeste Barber, $1.99. You may have seen Australian actor and comedian Celeste Barber’s hilarious Instagram photos attempting to copy ridiculous celebrity poses. If you’re interested in her take on childbirth, what it’s like to share so much of her life on the internet, body image, and more, this book is a breezy, laugh-out-loud read. Note: If you are squeamish about crude language, this may not be the book for you.
The Blue Sword, by Robin McKinley, $1.99. From our Adventure and Suspense reading list: Orphaned girl Harry Crewe is living a perfectly ordinary life — until the day she is kidnapped by the king of the Hillfolk to fulfill a destiny she never imagined. Is Harry really a true warrior who can wield the legendary blue sword? And even if she is, will she believe in herself enough to seize her fate?
Waiting, by Kevin Henkes, $1.99. This sweet picture book captures the emotional essence of childhood. Five toys sit by a window, each waiting for something different to happen. Simple, but resonant text and warm illustrations make this a delightful read.
The Stuff of Thought: Language as a Window into Human Nature, by Steven Pinker, $4.99. This book is fascinating and long. I bought it when I couldn’t finish my library copy in time (and I wanted to be able to refer to it again). Word nerds and anthropology fans will love this genre mashup. Find out what the words people use for swearing, humor, and metaphor say about us as human beings.
From the Corner of the Oval, by Beck Dorey-Stein, $4.99. This dishy political memoir describes the Obama White House from an unusual perspective, that of one of his twenty-something stenographers. Dorey-Stein came to the job with no political experience and got thrown into the deep end. The New York Times called this “Bridget Jones goes to the White House” — how can you pass that up?
Inside Out and Back Again, by Thanhha Lai, $1.99. From our big immigration stories reading list (winter 2017): “When Hà’s family flees Vietnam to escape the war there, she finds it difficult to adjust to a very different kind of life in Alabama. Told in spare, simple verse, this book packs an emotional wallop and allows kids to slip inside the first person experience of being a stranger in a strange land.”
This Book is Grey, by Lindsay Ward, $1.99. The other colors aren’t always friendly to Grey, and he just wants to fit in. He decides to make his own book of awesome things that are grey (hippos, clouds, kittens, etc.), but the other colors are not so enthusiastic. This is a story about fitting in, being true to yourself, and a little bit of color theory.
Kindle Deals for February 21, 2020
Today’s books are all about representation. We have a memoir about school desegregation, a picture book about a differently wired kid making a friend, and a graphic novel about a villian’s sidekick.
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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Nimona, by Noelle Stevenson, $1.99. I’ve loved everything Noelle Stevenson has created. She does an excellent job of creating complex, brave female characters. Nimona is a shape-shifter who is the assistant to a supervillain, Lord Blackheart. Together, they set off to prove that the local “heroes” aren’t so wonderful after all. If you love graphic novels, unusual heroines, or fantasy, this book is for you.
March Forward, Girl: From Young Warrior to Little Rock Nine, by Melba Pattillo Beals, $2.99. This middle-grade memoir will give kids a first-hand account of the Civil Rights Movement and what it felt like to be a part of the first desegregation efforts. From the publisher: “Long before she was one of the Little Rock Nine, Melba Pattillo Beals was a warrior. Frustrated by the laws that kept African-Americans separate but very much unequal to whites, she had questions. Why couldn’t she drink from a "whites only" fountain? Why couldn’t she feel safe beyond home—or even within the walls of church? Adults all told her: Hold your tongue. Be patient. Know your place. But Beals had the heart of a fighter—and the knowledge that her true place was a free one. Combined with emotive drawings and photos, this memoir paints a vivid picture of Beals’ powerful early journey on the road to becoming a champion for equal rights, an acclaimed journalist, a best-selling author, and the recipient of this country’s highest recognition, the Congressional Gold Medal.”
A Friend for Henry, by Jenn Bailey, $1.99. Henry sees the world a bit differently from many kids, and he worries about making friends. This sweet picture book about new beginnings never mentions autism by name in the text, though Henry’s thought patterns and sensory sensitivities fit that description. Share this book with the small people in your life.
STILL ON SALE
Math Magic: How to Master Everyday Math Problems, by Scott Flansburg, $1.99. Is there someone in your life who is a little math-phobic? This book may help by offering a fresh perspective and some tricks for making calculations easier. Topics include addition, fractions, multiplication, cube roots, tax and tips, and even a little bit of algebra. The tone is geared toward older kids and adults who need a confidence boost.
Under Rose-Tainted Skies, by Louise Gornall, $2.99. This novel’s heroine has challenges not often seen in YA literature, and I’m excited to read it. Here’s the publisher’s description: “Norah has agoraphobia and OCD. When groceries are left on the porch, she can’t step out to get them. Struggling to snag the bags with a stick, she meets Luke. He’s sweet and funny, and he just caught her fishing for groceries. Because of course he did. Norah can’t leave the house, but can she let someone in? As their friendship grows deeper, Norah realizes Luke deserves a normal girl. One who can lie on the front lawn and look up at the stars. One who isn’t so screwed up. Readers themselves will fall in love with Norah in this poignant, humorous, and deeply engaging portrait of a teen struggling to find the strength to face her demons.”
I’m Not Dying With You Tonight, by Kimberly Jones and Gilly Segal, $2.99. Two girls from very different backgrounds are thrown together when violence erupts in their city. The fast-paced story enfolds over one dangerous night, and the alternating narrator format allows issues of race and privilege to be addressed without feeling manipulative. Appropriate for high school students.
Front Desk, by Kelly Yang, $4.99. My daughter and I loved this book so much. When 10-year-old Mia’s family takes a job managing a motel, they quickly discover that the owner expects lots of work for very little pay. Determined to take some of the burden off of her parents, Mia takes on front desk duty when she comes home from school. Soon, Mia is keeping lots of secrets — the needy immigrants that her parents are hiding in unused hotel rooms, the reasons she can’t hang out with friends after school, and even her secret dream of becoming a writer. Grab this one now! The sequel is coming out later this year.
Well-Read Black Girl, by Glory Edim, $4.99. This anthology looks awesome. From the publisher: “Remember that moment when you first encountered a character who seemed to be written just for you? That feeling of belonging remains with readers the rest of their lives—but not everyone regularly sees themselves in the pages of a book. In this timely anthology, Glory Edim brings together original essays by some of our best black women writers to shine a light on how important it is that we all—regardless of gender, race, religion, or ability—have the opportunity to find ourselves in literature.”
Bellwether Rhapsody, by Kate Racculia, $2.99. Bellwether Rhapsody has won an ALEX award, which is given to a book that is written for adults but has special appeal for readers from ages 12 to 18. This twisty tale of a group of high school musicians snowed in at a hotel with a mysterious past will entertain readers young and old.
How Plants Work: The Science Behind the Amazing Things Plants Do, by Linda Chalker-Scott, $1.99. This book is designed for gardeners, but it is full of interesting information even if you have more of a black thumb than a green one. Chalker-Scott is an expert in plant physiology, and instead of just giving gardening advice (when to plant, where to prune, etc.), she uses her knowledge to explain why each practice matters.
Conversations with Myself, by Nelson Mandela, $3.99. This collection of private writing by Nelson Mandela includes excerpts from his journals, drafts of speeches, notes from important conversations, and more. The documents span Mandela’s career and offer a glimpse into the personal, human side of a tremendous public figure.
Foundations of Comic Book Art: Fundamental Tool and Techniques for Sequential Artists, by John Paul Lowe, $4.99. If you or your child has been looking for a truly in-depth guide to comic book creation, this is the text you need. Lowe covers all the steps in the creation process, from sketching to storyboarding to digitizing with copious illustrations and examples.
The Brave Learner, by Julie Bogart, $4.99. It’s rare to find a deal on a book about homeschooling, particularly a book that I actually love. Julie Bogart is the encouraging mentor and friend every homeschooling parent needs. In The Brave Learner, Bogart expands the principles of her Brave Writer language arts program to offer suggestions for creating a joyful and child-centered homeschooling life in all subjects. Let Julie inspire you to bring enchantment into your education.
The Oregon Trail: The Race to Chimney Rock, by Jesse Wiley, $2.99. It’s time to introduce the magical 80s computer game The Oregon Trail to a younger generation, this time as a choose-you-own-adventure novel series! Upper elementary kids will love these historical adventures. And don’t worry, just like in the computer games, most of the choices still end in death.
Get Up, Stand Up, by Bob Marley and Cedella Marley, $1.99. This beautiful picture book combines the words of Bob Marley’s classic song with lovely illustrations that tell a story of bullying and friendship. Though intended for the very young, this book would be a great book to get older kids talking about the power of music or the ways pictures can tell a story.
Unseen: Unpublished Black History from The New York Times Photo Archives, by Dana Canedy, Damien Cave, Rachel L. Swarns, and Darcy Eveleigh, $3.99. News is being made all around us, but not every story makes it into the printed record of history. New York Times photo editor Darcy Eveleigh discovered dozens of unprinted photos in the newspaper’s archives. With the help of her colleagues, Eveleigh researched the context of these photos and brought new stories to light. You’ll find unseen sides of familiar faces and entirely new tales from history.
Aerial Geology, by Mary Caperton Morton, $2.99. Have you ever looked out the windows of an airplane and marveled at the shapes of the land below? This book visits remarkable places in North America from above to show how geologic concepts are written in the surface of the earth. Written for adults but easily accessible to interested children, this book is a great jumping off point for a deeper study of earth science. Definitely view the pictures on a full-color screen, if possible, or consider splurging on the gorgeous hardcover.
Betty Before X, by Ilyasah Shabazz and Renee Watson, $2.99. This book, which was featured in several Best Children’s Books of 2018 lists, tells a story of the Civil Rights movement through the eyes of Malcolm X’s daughter, Betty. The 11-year-old’s unique perspective will help middle-grade readers engage with the historical details in a deeper way.
Field Notes on Love, by Jennifer E. Smith, $1.99. Celebrate Valentine’s Day with another sweet YA romance. Hugo is planning a train trip across the country with his girlfriend before he starts college. When they break up, he quickly needs to find another Margaret Campbell to take her nonrefundable ticket. The two complete strangers get to know each other on the long journey, but will their lives outside the train catch up with them?
The Periodic Table: A Field Guide to the Elements, by Paul Parsons and Gail Dixon, $3.99. This vibrant and careful guide to all the elements in the periodic table will intrigue budding chemists and anyone who wants to understand how things work. Lots of vivid illustrations of the elements in their various forms round out the dense but accessible text.
And Still I Rise: Black America Since MLK, by Henry L. Gates and Kevin M. Burke, $2.99. Harvard Professor Henry Louis Gates considers the highs and lows of Black History in the last 50 years. This book is a companion to a compelling PBS series and is full of engaging pictures.
The Cooking Gene: A Journey Through African American Culinary History in the Old South, by Michael W. Twitty, $1.99. Whether you love Southern cooking or know nothing about it, you will definitely be interested what Twitty has to say. As he tells the story of how traditional cuisine developed, he takes on slavery, racism, class, and religion.
A Weird and Wild Beauty: The Story of Yellowstone, The World’s First National Park, by Erin Peabody, $1.99. Yellowstone is a place like few others in the world, and this book traces its fascinating history. This book, aimed at teens to adults, covers the park’s discovery, the protection act that created the first national park, and the science and nature that make Yellowstone so unique. Copious historical and current photos enhance the reading experience.
Lintang and the Pirate Queen, by Tamara Moss, $2.99. This middle-grade fantasy novel is perhaps better known in Australia, where it was initially published. I love all the strong female characters. Here’s how the publisher describes it: “Lintang is an island girl who longs for daring and danger. When she meets the feared pirate Captain Shafira and her all-female crew, Lintang is determined to join them. Secrets within secrets, life-or-death battles with spectacular monsters, and hair’s breadth escapes keep readers turning the pages of a story populated by women of color who are fighters, adventurers, and leaders.”
How to Read Poetry Like a Professor: A Quippy and Sonorous Guide to Verse, by Thomas C. Foster, $1.99. Poetry doesn’t have to be intimidating. This guide to understanding the meanings of poems will help teens and adults find the beauty in verse. Along the way, Foster introduces and explains all the language scholars use to talk about poetry — meter, figurative language, rhyme structure, and more.
Josephine: The Dazzling Life of Josephine Baker, by Patricia Hruby Powell and Christian Robinson, $1.99. This lovely children’s biography of Josephine Baker covers both her performance career and her civil rights work. It is written in a jazz-style poetry that calls to mind the 1920s. The simple, vivid illustrations won the Coretta Scott King Honor distinction.
Science in Seconds: 200 Key Concepts Explained in an Instant, by Hazel Muir, $1.99. This illustrated guide to scientific concepts explains everything from thermodynamics to the Doppler effect. It’s an excellent resource for when you need a refresher or a way to answer a homework question.
In Progress: Seeing Inside a Lettering Artist’s Sketchbook and Process, from Pencil to Vector, by Jessica Hische, $2.99. I love to learn about how things are made, and this peek into a lettering artist’s work process is really fascinating to me. This is a great introduction to the terminology, tools, and business of lettering. You’ll enjoy this look behind the scenes even if you, like me, have no talent for fancy handwriting.
Super Graphic: A Visual Guide to the Comic Book Universe, by Tim Leong, $1.99. If you love comic books, this is the book for you. If you know very little about superheroes but enjoy infographics, this is also the book for you. Tim Leong breaks down the world of superheroes and supervillians by color, geographic area, height, weight, and more.
Binti, by Nnedi Okorafor, $1.99. This sci-fi novella introduces an exciting new universe. Binti, a Himba tribeswoman, is the first of her people to gain admission to a galactic university. Against her family’s wishes, she leaves her desert home to pursue higher education. A disaster on her transport ship has profound impacts on Binti’s future. This book is beautifully written and a whirlwind of activity. It’s short, but it packs a punch.
How to Draw Fantasy Art and RPG Maps: Step by Step Cartography for Gamers and Fans, by Jared Blando, $4.99. I’m a big fan of meeting kids where they are to sneak in some meaningful learning. In creating a fantasy world and building an accurate map, budding cartographers will have a crash course in geography. The book offers good starting points for discussion of geographic features, cities and transportation, political history, and heraldry. The excellent and varied illustrations break the complex process into manageable steps.
Enlightenment Now, by Steven Pinker, $1.99. This is a great deal on a massive, informative book, so snap it up! It is very easy to get stuck in thinking about all of the problems and disasters facing the modern world. Pinker uses meticulous sociological research to show that human conditions have been steadily improving since the Enlightenment. Far from resting on laurels, Pinker encourages readers to continue embracing reason and science to defend the world against the ever-encroaching tribalism, demagoguery, and fatalism that also seem to be a persistent part of human nature.
Paperback Crush, by Gabrielle Moss, $2.99. Calling all women in their thirties and forties! Did you go through a horse book phase in middle school? Did you morbidly rubberneck the doomed romances of terminally ill teens? This book is a love letter to the mass market teen paperbacks of the 1980s and 1990s. Revisit the extremely specific genres of books you loved but have probably forgotten.
A Crazy-Much Love, by Joy Jordan-Lake, $1.99. This sweet picture book tells the story of an international adoption and many milestones that follow in a young girl’s family.
George, by Alex Gino, $3.99. George may look like a boy, but she knows she is really a girl. Determined to win the role of Charlotte in her school play of Charlotte’s Web, she sets out to make sure everyone else can see her the way she sees herself. Books that address the experiences of transgender tweens are rare, and this one does it well, so snag it for your middle-grade reader.
Challenge Accepted! 253 Steps to Becoming an Anti-It Girl, by Celeste Barber, $1.99. You may have seen Australian actor and comedian Celeste Barber’s hilarious Instagram photos attempting to copy ridiculous celebrity poses. If you’re interested in her take on childbirth, what it’s like to share so much of her life on the internet, body image, and more, this book is a breezy, laugh-out-loud read. Note: If you are squeamish about crude language, this may not be the book for you.
The Blue Sword, by Robin McKinley, $1.99. From our Adventure and Suspense reading list: Orphaned girl Harry Crewe is living a perfectly ordinary life — until the day she is kidnapped by the king of the Hillfolk to fulfill a destiny she never imagined. Is Harry really a true warrior who can wield the legendary blue sword? And even if she is, will she believe in herself enough to seize her fate?
Waiting, by Kevin Henkes, $1.99. This sweet picture book captures the emotional essence of childhood. Five toys sit by a window, each waiting for something different to happen. Simple, but resonant text and warm illustrations make this a delightful read.
The Stuff of Thought: Language as a Window into Human Nature, by Steven Pinker, $4.99. This book is fascinating and long. I bought it when I couldn’t finish my library copy in time (and I wanted to be able to refer to it again). Word nerds and anthropology fans will love this genre mashup. Find out what the words people use for swearing, humor, and metaphor say about us as human beings.
From the Corner of the Oval, by Beck Dorey-Stein, $4.99. This dishy political memoir describes the Obama White House from an unusual perspective, that of one of his twenty-something stenographers. Dorey-Stein came to the job with no political experience and got thrown into the deep end. The New York Times called this “Bridget Jones goes to the White House” — how can you pass that up?
Inside Out and Back Again, by Thanhha Lai, $1.99. From our big immigration stories reading list (winter 2017): “When Hà’s family flees Vietnam to escape the war there, she finds it difficult to adjust to a very different kind of life in Alabama. Told in spare, simple verse, this book packs an emotional wallop and allows kids to slip inside the first person experience of being a stranger in a strange land.”
This Book is Grey, by Lindsay Ward, $1.99. The other colors aren’t always friendly to Grey, and he just wants to fit in. He decides to make his own book of awesome things that are grey (hippos, clouds, kittens, etc.), but the other colors are not so enthusiastic. This is a story about fitting in, being true to yourself, and a little bit of color theory.
Kindle Deals for February 20, 2020
Today’s books feature math tricks, teen love in the face of mental illness, and a fantastic deal on one of the most anticipated books of 2020.
Today's Best Book Deals for Your Homeschool
(Prices are correct as of the time of writing, but y'all know sales move fast — check before you click the buy button! These are Amazon links — read more about how we use affiliate links to help support some of the costs of the HSL blog here.)
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Hitting a Straight Lick with a Crooked Stick: Stories from the Harlem Renaissance, by Zora Neale Hurston, $3.99. Wow! This is a fantastic deal on a brand new release of short stories written during the 1920s. From the publisher: “Hitting a Straight Lick with a Crooked Stick is an outstanding collection of stories about love and migration, gender and class, racism and sexism that proudly reflect African American folk culture. Brought together for the first time in one volume, they include eight of Hurston’s “lost” Harlem stories, which were found in forgotten periodicals and archives. These stories challenge conceptions of Hurston as an author of rural fiction and include gems that flash with her biting, satiric humor, as well as more serious tales reflective of the cultural currents of Hurston’s world. All are timeless classics that enrich our understanding and appreciation of this exceptional writer’s voice and her contributions to America’s literary traditions.”
Math Magic: How to Master Everyday Math Problems, by Scott Flansburg, $1.99. Is there someone in your life who is a little math-phobic? This book may help by offering a fresh perspective and some tricks for making calculations easier. Topics include addition, fractions, multiplication, cube roots, tax and tips, and even a little bit of algebra. The tone is geared toward older kids and adults who need a confidence boost.
Under Rose-Tainted Skies, by Louise Gornall, $2.99. This novel’s heroine has challenges not often seen in YA literature, and I’m excited to read it. Here’s the publisher’s description: “Norah has agoraphobia and OCD. When groceries are left on the porch, she can’t step out to get them. Struggling to snag the bags with a stick, she meets Luke. He’s sweet and funny, and he just caught her fishing for groceries. Because of course he did. Norah can’t leave the house, but can she let someone in? As their friendship grows deeper, Norah realizes Luke deserves a normal girl. One who can lie on the front lawn and look up at the stars. One who isn’t so screwed up. Readers themselves will fall in love with Norah in this poignant, humorous, and deeply engaging portrait of a teen struggling to find the strength to face her demons.”
STILL ON SALE
I’m Not Dying With You Tonight, by Kimberly Jones and Gilly Segal, $2.99. Two girls from very different backgrounds are thrown together when violence erupts in their city. The fast-paced story enfolds over one dangerous night, and the alternating narrator format allows issues of race and privilege to be addressed without feeling manipulative. Appropriate for high school students.
The Sound Book: The Science of the Sonic Wonders of the World, by Trevor Cox, $2.99. I read this publisher’s description and was absolutely charmed. Does it spark interest in you, too? “In this tour of the world’s most unexpected sounds, Trevor Cox—the “David Attenborough of the acoustic realm” (Observer)—discovers the world’s longest echo in a hidden oil cavern in Scotland, unlocks the secret of singing sand dunes in California, and alerts us to the aural gems that exist everywhere in between. Using the world’s most amazing acoustic phenomena to reveal how sound works in everyday life, The Sound Book inspires us to become better listeners in a world dominated by the visual and to open our ears to the glorious cacophony all around us.”
Front Desk, by Kelly Yang, $4.99. My daughter and I loved this book so much. When 10-year-old Mia’s family takes a job managing a motel, they quickly discover that the owner expects lots of work for very little pay. Determined to take some of the burden off of her parents, Mia takes on front desk duty when she comes home from school. Soon, Mia is keeping lots of secrets — the needy immigrants that her parents are hiding in unused hotel rooms, the reasons she can’t hang out with friends after school, and even her secret dream of becoming a writer. Grab this one now! The sequel is coming out later this year.
Well-Read Black Girl, by Glory Edim, $4.99. This anthology looks awesome. From the publisher: “Remember that moment when you first encountered a character who seemed to be written just for you? That feeling of belonging remains with readers the rest of their lives—but not everyone regularly sees themselves in the pages of a book. In this timely anthology, Glory Edim brings together original essays by some of our best black women writers to shine a light on how important it is that we all—regardless of gender, race, religion, or ability—have the opportunity to find ourselves in literature.”
Bellwether Rhapsody, by Kate Racculia, $2.99. Bellwether Rhapsody has won an ALEX award, which is given to a book that is written for adults but has special appeal for readers from ages 12 to 18. This twisty tale of a group of high school musicians snowed in at a hotel with a mysterious past will entertain readers young and old.
How Plants Work: The Science Behind the Amazing Things Plants Do, by Linda Chalker-Scott, $1.99. This book is designed for gardeners, but it is full of interesting information even if you have more of a black thumb than a green one. Chalker-Scott is an expert in plant physiology, and instead of just giving gardening advice (when to plant, where to prune, etc.), she uses her knowledge to explain why each practice matters.
Conversations with Myself, by Nelson Mandela, $3.99. This collection of private writing by Nelson Mandela includes excerpts from his journals, drafts of speeches, notes from important conversations, and more. The documents span Mandela’s career and offer a glimpse into the personal, human side of a tremendous public figure.
Foundations of Comic Book Art: Fundamental Tool and Techniques for Sequential Artists, by John Paul Lowe, $4.99. If you or your child has been looking for a truly in-depth guide to comic book creation, this is the text you need. Lowe covers all the steps in the creation process, from sketching to storyboarding to digitizing with copious illustrations and examples.
The Brave Learner, by Julie Bogart, $4.99. It’s rare to find a deal on a book about homeschooling, particularly a book that I actually love. Julie Bogart is the encouraging mentor and friend every homeschooling parent needs. In The Brave Learner, Bogart expands the principles of her Brave Writer language arts program to offer suggestions for creating a joyful and child-centered homeschooling life in all subjects. Let Julie inspire you to bring enchantment into your education.
The Oregon Trail: The Race to Chimney Rock, by Jesse Wiley, $2.99. It’s time to introduce the magical 80s computer game The Oregon Trail to a younger generation, this time as a choose-you-own-adventure novel series! Upper elementary kids will love these historical adventures. And don’t worry, just like in the computer games, most of the choices still end in death.
Get Up, Stand Up, by Bob Marley and Cedella Marley, $1.99. This beautiful picture book combines the words of Bob Marley’s classic song with lovely illustrations that tell a story of bullying and friendship. Though intended for the very young, this book would be a great book to get older kids talking about the power of music or the ways pictures can tell a story.
Unseen: Unpublished Black History from The New York Times Photo Archives, by Dana Canedy, Damien Cave, Rachel L. Swarns, and Darcy Eveleigh, $3.99. News is being made all around us, but not every story makes it into the printed record of history. New York Times photo editor Darcy Eveleigh discovered dozens of unprinted photos in the newspaper’s archives. With the help of her colleagues, Eveleigh researched the context of these photos and brought new stories to light. You’ll find unseen sides of familiar faces and entirely new tales from history.
Aerial Geology, by Mary Caperton Morton, $2.99. Have you ever looked out the windows of an airplane and marveled at the shapes of the land below? This book visits remarkable places in North America from above to show how geologic concepts are written in the surface of the earth. Written for adults but easily accessible to interested children, this book is a great jumping off point for a deeper study of earth science. Definitely view the pictures on a full-color screen, if possible, or consider splurging on the gorgeous hardcover.
Betty Before X, by Ilyasah Shabazz and Renee Watson, $2.99. This book, which was featured in several Best Children’s Books of 2018 lists, tells a story of the Civil Rights movement through the eyes of Malcolm X’s daughter, Betty. The 11-year-old’s unique perspective will help middle-grade readers engage with the historical details in a deeper way.
Field Notes on Love, by Jennifer E. Smith, $1.99. Celebrate Valentine’s Day with another sweet YA romance. Hugo is planning a train trip across the country with his girlfriend before he starts college. When they break up, he quickly needs to find another Margaret Campbell to take her nonrefundable ticket. The two complete strangers get to know each other on the long journey, but will their lives outside the train catch up with them?
The Periodic Table: A Field Guide to the Elements, by Paul Parsons and Gail Dixon, $3.99. This vibrant and careful guide to all the elements in the periodic table will intrigue budding chemists and anyone who wants to understand how things work. Lots of vivid illustrations of the elements in their various forms round out the dense but accessible text.
And Still I Rise: Black America Since MLK, by Henry L. Gates and Kevin M. Burke, $2.99. Harvard Professor Henry Louis Gates considers the highs and lows of Black History in the last 50 years. This book is a companion to a compelling PBS series and is full of engaging pictures.
The Cooking Gene: A Journey Through African American Culinary History in the Old South, by Michael W. Twitty, $1.99. Whether you love Southern cooking or know nothing about it, you will definitely be interested what Twitty has to say. As he tells the story of how traditional cuisine developed, he takes on slavery, racism, class, and religion.
A Weird and Wild Beauty: The Story of Yellowstone, The World’s First National Park, by Erin Peabody, $1.99. Yellowstone is a place like few others in the world, and this book traces its fascinating history. This book, aimed at teens to adults, covers the park’s discovery, the protection act that created the first national park, and the science and nature that make Yellowstone so unique. Copious historical and current photos enhance the reading experience.
Lintang and the Pirate Queen, by Tamara Moss, $2.99. This middle-grade fantasy novel is perhaps better known in Australia, where it was initially published. I love all the strong female characters. Here’s how the publisher describes it: “Lintang is an island girl who longs for daring and danger. When she meets the feared pirate Captain Shafira and her all-female crew, Lintang is determined to join them. Secrets within secrets, life-or-death battles with spectacular monsters, and hair’s breadth escapes keep readers turning the pages of a story populated by women of color who are fighters, adventurers, and leaders.”
How to Read Poetry Like a Professor: A Quippy and Sonorous Guide to Verse, by Thomas C. Foster, $1.99. Poetry doesn’t have to be intimidating. This guide to understanding the meanings of poems will help teens and adults find the beauty in verse. Along the way, Foster introduces and explains all the language scholars use to talk about poetry — meter, figurative language, rhyme structure, and more.
Josephine: The Dazzling Life of Josephine Baker, by Patricia Hruby Powell and Christian Robinson, $1.99. This lovely children’s biography of Josephine Baker covers both her performance career and her civil rights work. It is written in a jazz-style poetry that calls to mind the 1920s. The simple, vivid illustrations won the Coretta Scott King Honor distinction.
Science in Seconds: 200 Key Concepts Explained in an Instant, by Hazel Muir, $1.99. This illustrated guide to scientific concepts explains everything from thermodynamics to the Doppler effect. It’s an excellent resource for when you need a refresher or a way to answer a homework question.
In Progress: Seeing Inside a Lettering Artist’s Sketchbook and Process, from Pencil to Vector, by Jessica Hische, $2.99. I love to learn about how things are made, and this peek into a lettering artist’s work process is really fascinating to me. This is a great introduction to the terminology, tools, and business of lettering. You’ll enjoy this look behind the scenes even if you, like me, have no talent for fancy handwriting.
Super Graphic: A Visual Guide to the Comic Book Universe, by Tim Leong, $1.99. If you love comic books, this is the book for you. If you know very little about superheroes but enjoy infographics, this is also the book for you. Tim Leong breaks down the world of superheroes and supervillians by color, geographic area, height, weight, and more.
Binti, by Nnedi Okorafor, $1.99. This sci-fi novella introduces an exciting new universe. Binti, a Himba tribeswoman, is the first of her people to gain admission to a galactic university. Against her family’s wishes, she leaves her desert home to pursue higher education. A disaster on her transport ship has profound impacts on Binti’s future. This book is beautifully written and a whirlwind of activity. It’s short, but it packs a punch.
How to Draw Fantasy Art and RPG Maps: Step by Step Cartography for Gamers and Fans, by Jared Blando, $4.99. I’m a big fan of meeting kids where they are to sneak in some meaningful learning. In creating a fantasy world and building an accurate map, budding cartographers will have a crash course in geography. The book offers good starting points for discussion of geographic features, cities and transportation, political history, and heraldry. The excellent and varied illustrations break the complex process into manageable steps.
Enlightenment Now, by Steven Pinker, $1.99. This is a great deal on a massive, informative book, so snap it up! It is very easy to get stuck in thinking about all of the problems and disasters facing the modern world. Pinker uses meticulous sociological research to show that human conditions have been steadily improving since the Enlightenment. Far from resting on laurels, Pinker encourages readers to continue embracing reason and science to defend the world against the ever-encroaching tribalism, demagoguery, and fatalism that also seem to be a persistent part of human nature.
Paperback Crush, by Gabrielle Moss, $2.99. Calling all women in their thirties and forties! Did you go through a horse book phase in middle school? Did you morbidly rubberneck the doomed romances of terminally ill teens? This book is a love letter to the mass market teen paperbacks of the 1980s and 1990s. Revisit the extremely specific genres of books you loved but have probably forgotten.
A Crazy-Much Love, by Joy Jordan-Lake, $1.99. This sweet picture book tells the story of an international adoption and many milestones that follow in a young girl’s family.
George, by Alex Gino, $3.99. George may look like a boy, but she knows she is really a girl. Determined to win the role of Charlotte in her school play of Charlotte’s Web, she sets out to make sure everyone else can see her the way she sees herself. Books that address the experiences of transgender tweens are rare, and this one does it well, so snag it for your middle-grade reader.
Challenge Accepted! 253 Steps to Becoming an Anti-It Girl, by Celeste Barber, $1.99. You may have seen Australian actor and comedian Celeste Barber’s hilarious Instagram photos attempting to copy ridiculous celebrity poses. If you’re interested in her take on childbirth, what it’s like to share so much of her life on the internet, body image, and more, this book is a breezy, laugh-out-loud read. Note: If you are squeamish about crude language, this may not be the book for you.
The Blue Sword, by Robin McKinley, $1.99. From our Adventure and Suspense reading list: Orphaned girl Harry Crewe is living a perfectly ordinary life — until the day she is kidnapped by the king of the Hillfolk to fulfill a destiny she never imagined. Is Harry really a true warrior who can wield the legendary blue sword? And even if she is, will she believe in herself enough to seize her fate?
Waiting, by Kevin Henkes, $1.99. This sweet picture book captures the emotional essence of childhood. Five toys sit by a window, each waiting for something different to happen. Simple, but resonant text and warm illustrations make this a delightful read.
The Stuff of Thought: Language as a Window into Human Nature, by Steven Pinker, $4.99. This book is fascinating and long. I bought it when I couldn’t finish my library copy in time (and I wanted to be able to refer to it again). Word nerds and anthropology fans will love this genre mashup. Find out what the words people use for swearing, humor, and metaphor say about us as human beings.
From the Corner of the Oval, by Beck Dorey-Stein, $4.99. This dishy political memoir describes the Obama White House from an unusual perspective, that of one of his twenty-something stenographers. Dorey-Stein came to the job with no political experience and got thrown into the deep end. The New York Times called this “Bridget Jones goes to the White House” — how can you pass that up?
Inside Out and Back Again, by Thanhha Lai, $1.99. From our big immigration stories reading list (winter 2017): “When Hà’s family flees Vietnam to escape the war there, she finds it difficult to adjust to a very different kind of life in Alabama. Told in spare, simple verse, this book packs an emotional wallop and allows kids to slip inside the first person experience of being a stranger in a strange land.”
This Book is Grey, by Lindsay Ward, $1.99. The other colors aren’t always friendly to Grey, and he just wants to fit in. He decides to make his own book of awesome things that are grey (hippos, clouds, kittens, etc.), but the other colors are not so enthusiastic. This is a story about fitting in, being true to yourself, and a little bit of color theory.
Kindle Deals for February 19, 2020
Today’s books include YA and middle grade novels that are sure to get you thinking and talking, plus a guide to the weird and wonderful sounds of Earth.
Today's Best Book Deals for Your Homeschool
(Prices are correct as of the time of writing, but y'all know sales move fast — check before you click the buy button! These are Amazon links — read more about how we use affiliate links to help support some of the costs of the HSL blog here.)
Never miss a deal! Sign up for an email notification every time we post here.
I’m Not Dying With You Tonight, by Kimberly Jones and Gilly Segal, $2.99. Two girls from very different backgrounds are thrown together when violence erupts in their city. The fast-paced story enfolds over one dangerous night, and the alternating narrator format allows issues of race and privilege to be addressed without feeling manipulative. Appropriate for high school students.
The Sound Book: The Science of the Sonic Wonders of the World, by Trevor Cox, $2.99. I read this publisher’s description and was absolutely charmed. Does it spark interest in you, too? “In this tour of the world’s most unexpected sounds, Trevor Cox—the “David Attenborough of the acoustic realm” (Observer)—discovers the world’s longest echo in a hidden oil cavern in Scotland, unlocks the secret of singing sand dunes in California, and alerts us to the aural gems that exist everywhere in between. Using the world’s most amazing acoustic phenomena to reveal how sound works in everyday life, The Sound Book inspires us to become better listeners in a world dominated by the visual and to open our ears to the glorious cacophony all around us.”
Front Desk, by Kelly Yang, $4.99. My daughter and I loved this book so much. When 10-year-old Mia’s family takes a job managing a motel, they quickly discover that the owner expects lots of work for very little pay. Determined to take some of the burden off of her parents, Mia takes on front desk duty when she comes home from school. Soon, Mia is keeping lots of secrets — the needy immigrants that her parents are hiding in unused hotel rooms, the reasons she can’t hang out with friends after school, and even her secret dream of becoming a writer. Grab this one now! The sequel is coming out later this year.
STILL ON SALE
Well-Read Black Girl, by Glory Edim, $4.99. This anthology looks awesome. From the publisher: “Remember that moment when you first encountered a character who seemed to be written just for you? That feeling of belonging remains with readers the rest of their lives—but not everyone regularly sees themselves in the pages of a book. In this timely anthology, Glory Edim brings together original essays by some of our best black women writers to shine a light on how important it is that we all—regardless of gender, race, religion, or ability—have the opportunity to find ourselves in literature.”
Bellwether Rhapsody, by Kate Racculia, $2.99. Bellwether Rhapsody has won an ALEX award, which is given to a book that is written for adults but has special appeal for readers from ages 12 to 18. This twisty tale of a group of high school musicians snowed in at a hotel with a mysterious past will entertain readers young and old.
How Plants Work: The Science Behind the Amazing Things Plants Do, by Linda Chalker-Scott, $1.99. This book is designed for gardeners, but it is full of interesting information even if you have more of a black thumb than a green one. Chalker-Scott is an expert in plant physiology, and instead of just giving gardening advice (when to plant, where to prune, etc.), she uses her knowledge to explain why each practice matters.
Conversations with Myself, by Nelson Mandela, $3.99. This collection of private writing by Nelson Mandela includes excerpts from his journals, drafts of speeches, notes from important conversations, and more. The documents span Mandela’s career and offer a glimpse into the personal, human side of a tremendous public figure.
Foundations of Comic Book Art: Fundamental Tool and Techniques for Sequential Artists, by John Paul Lowe, $4.99. If you or your child has been looking for a truly in-depth guide to comic book creation, this is the text you need. Lowe covers all the steps in the creation process, from sketching to storyboarding to digitizing with copious illustrations and examples.
The Brave Learner, by Julie Bogart, $4.99. It’s rare to find a deal on a book about homeschooling, particularly a book that I actually love. Julie Bogart is the encouraging mentor and friend every homeschooling parent needs. In The Brave Learner, Bogart expands the principles of her Brave Writer language arts program to offer suggestions for creating a joyful and child-centered homeschooling life in all subjects. Let Julie inspire you to bring enchantment into your education.
The Oregon Trail: The Race to Chimney Rock, by Jesse Wiley, $2.99. It’s time to introduce the magical 80s computer game The Oregon Trail to a younger generation, this time as a choose-you-own-adventure novel series! Upper elementary kids will love these historical adventures. And don’t worry, just like in the computer games, most of the choices still end in death.
Get Up, Stand Up, by Bob Marley and Cedella Marley, $1.99. This beautiful picture book combines the words of Bob Marley’s classic song with lovely illustrations that tell a story of bullying and friendship. Though intended for the very young, this book would be a great book to get older kids talking about the power of music or the ways pictures can tell a story.
Unseen: Unpublished Black History from The New York Times Photo Archives, by Dana Canedy, Damien Cave, Rachel L. Swarns, and Darcy Eveleigh, $3.99. News is being made all around us, but not every story makes it into the printed record of history. New York Times photo editor Darcy Eveleigh discovered dozens of unprinted photos in the newspaper’s archives. With the help of her colleagues, Eveleigh researched the context of these photos and brought new stories to light. You’ll find unseen sides of familiar faces and entirely new tales from history.
Aerial Geology, by Mary Caperton Morton, $2.99. Have you ever looked out the windows of an airplane and marveled at the shapes of the land below? This book visits remarkable places in North America from above to show how geologic concepts are written in the surface of the earth. Written for adults but easily accessible to interested children, this book is a great jumping off point for a deeper study of earth science. Definitely view the pictures on a full-color screen, if possible, or consider splurging on the gorgeous hardcover.
Betty Before X, by Ilyasah Shabazz and Renee Watson, $2.99. This book, which was featured in several Best Children’s Books of 2018 lists, tells a story of the Civil Rights movement through the eyes of Malcolm X’s daughter, Betty. The 11-year-old’s unique perspective will help middle-grade readers engage with the historical details in a deeper way.
Field Notes on Love, by Jennifer E. Smith, $1.99. Celebrate Valentine’s Day with another sweet YA romance. Hugo is planning a train trip across the country with his girlfriend before he starts college. When they break up, he quickly needs to find another Margaret Campbell to take her nonrefundable ticket. The two complete strangers get to know each other on the long journey, but will their lives outside the train catch up with them?
The Periodic Table: A Field Guide to the Elements, by Paul Parsons and Gail Dixon, $3.99. This vibrant and careful guide to all the elements in the periodic table will intrigue budding chemists and anyone who wants to understand how things work. Lots of vivid illustrations of the elements in their various forms round out the dense but accessible text.
And Still I Rise: Black America Since MLK, by Henry L. Gates and Kevin M. Burke, $2.99. Harvard Professor Henry Louis Gates considers the highs and lows of Black History in the last 50 years. This book is a companion to a compelling PBS series and is full of engaging pictures.
Meet Cute, by various authors, $2.99. A “meet cute” is the first time a couple meets in a romance novel. This story anthology is a collection of meet cute stories from some of the biggest names in YA fiction. You’ll love the broad diversity of characters’ racial, gender, and sexual identies. Everyone deserves a good love story.
The Cooking Gene: A Journey Through African American Culinary History in the Old South, by Michael W. Twitty, $1.99. Whether you love Southern cooking or know nothing about it, you will definitely be interested what Twitty has to say. As he tells the story of how traditional cuisine developed, he takes on slavery, racism, class, and religion.
A Weird and Wild Beauty: The Story of Yellowstone, The World’s First National Park, by Erin Peabody, $1.99. Yellowstone is a place like few others in the world, and this book traces its fascinating history. This book, aimed at teens to adults, covers the park’s discovery, the protection act that created the first national park, and the science and nature that make Yellowstone so unique. Copious historical and current photos enhance the reading experience.
Lintang and the Pirate Queen, by Tamara Moss, $2.99. This middle-grade fantasy novel is perhaps better known in Australia, where it was initially published. I love all the strong female characters. Here’s how the publisher describes it: “Lintang is an island girl who longs for daring and danger. When she meets the feared pirate Captain Shafira and her all-female crew, Lintang is determined to join them. Secrets within secrets, life-or-death battles with spectacular monsters, and hair’s breadth escapes keep readers turning the pages of a story populated by women of color who are fighters, adventurers, and leaders.”
How to Read Poetry Like a Professor: A Quippy and Sonorous Guide to Verse, by Thomas C. Foster, $1.99. Poetry doesn’t have to be intimidating. This guide to understanding the meanings of poems will help teens and adults find the beauty in verse. Along the way, Foster introduces and explains all the language scholars use to talk about poetry — meter, figurative language, rhyme structure, and more.
Josephine: The Dazzling Life of Josephine Baker, by Patricia Hruby Powell and Christian Robinson, $1.99. This lovely children’s biography of Josephine Baker covers both her performance career and her civil rights work. It is written in a jazz-style poetry that calls to mind the 1920s. The simple, vivid illustrations won the Coretta Scott King Honor distinction.
Science in Seconds: 200 Key Concepts Explained in an Instant, by Hazel Muir, $1.99. This illustrated guide to scientific concepts explains everything from thermodynamics to the Doppler effect. It’s an excellent resource for when you need a refresher or a way to answer a homework question.
In Progress: Seeing Inside a Lettering Artist’s Sketchbook and Process, from Pencil to Vector, by Jessica Hische, $2.99. I love to learn about how things are made, and this peek into a lettering artist’s work process is really fascinating to me. This is a great introduction to the terminology, tools, and business of lettering. You’ll enjoy this look behind the scenes even if you, like me, have no talent for fancy handwriting.
Super Graphic: A Visual Guide to the Comic Book Universe, by Tim Leong, $1.99. If you love comic books, this is the book for you. If you know very little about superheroes but enjoy infographics, this is also the book for you. Tim Leong breaks down the world of superheroes and supervillians by color, geographic area, height, weight, and more.
Binti, by Nnedi Okorafor, $1.99. This sci-fi novella introduces an exciting new universe. Binti, a Himba tribeswoman, is the first of her people to gain admission to a galactic university. Against her family’s wishes, she leaves her desert home to pursue higher education. A disaster on her transport ship has profound impacts on Binti’s future. This book is beautifully written and a whirlwind of activity. It’s short, but it packs a punch.
How to Draw Fantasy Art and RPG Maps: Step by Step Cartography for Gamers and Fans, by Jared Blando, $4.99. I’m a big fan of meeting kids where they are to sneak in some meaningful learning. In creating a fantasy world and building an accurate map, budding cartographers will have a crash course in geography. The book offers good starting points for discussion of geographic features, cities and transportation, political history, and heraldry. The excellent and varied illustrations break the complex process into manageable steps.
Enlightenment Now, by Steven Pinker, $1.99. This is a great deal on a massive, informative book, so snap it up! It is very easy to get stuck in thinking about all of the problems and disasters facing the modern world. Pinker uses meticulous sociological research to show that human conditions have been steadily improving since the Enlightenment. Far from resting on laurels, Pinker encourages readers to continue embracing reason and science to defend the world against the ever-encroaching tribalism, demagoguery, and fatalism that also seem to be a persistent part of human nature.
Paperback Crush, by Gabrielle Moss, $2.99. Calling all women in their thirties and forties! Did you go through a horse book phase in middle school? Did you morbidly rubberneck the doomed romances of terminally ill teens? This book is a love letter to the mass market teen paperbacks of the 1980s and 1990s. Revisit the extremely specific genres of books you loved but have probably forgotten.
A Crazy-Much Love, by Joy Jordan-Lake, $1.99. This sweet picture book tells the story of an international adoption and many milestones that follow in a young girl’s family.
George, by Alex Gino, $3.99. George may look like a boy, but she knows she is really a girl. Determined to win the role of Charlotte in her school play of Charlotte’s Web, she sets out to make sure everyone else can see her the way she sees herself. Books that address the experiences of transgender tweens are rare, and this one does it well, so snag it for your middle-grade reader.
Challenge Accepted! 253 Steps to Becoming an Anti-It Girl, by Celeste Barber, $1.99. You may have seen Australian actor and comedian Celeste Barber’s hilarious Instagram photos attempting to copy ridiculous celebrity poses. If you’re interested in her take on childbirth, what it’s like to share so much of her life on the internet, body image, and more, this book is a breezy, laugh-out-loud read. Note: If you are squeamish about crude language, this may not be the book for you.
The Blue Sword, by Robin McKinley, $1.99. From our Adventure and Suspense reading list: Orphaned girl Harry Crewe is living a perfectly ordinary life — until the day she is kidnapped by the king of the Hillfolk to fulfill a destiny she never imagined. Is Harry really a true warrior who can wield the legendary blue sword? And even if she is, will she believe in herself enough to seize her fate?
Waiting, by Kevin Henkes, $1.99. This sweet picture book captures the emotional essence of childhood. Five toys sit by a window, each waiting for something different to happen. Simple, but resonant text and warm illustrations make this a delightful read.
The Stuff of Thought: Language as a Window into Human Nature, by Steven Pinker, $4.99. This book is fascinating and long. I bought it when I couldn’t finish my library copy in time (and I wanted to be able to refer to it again). Word nerds and anthropology fans will love this genre mashup. Find out what the words people use for swearing, humor, and metaphor say about us as human beings.
From the Corner of the Oval, by Beck Dorey-Stein, $4.99. This dishy political memoir describes the Obama White House from an unusual perspective, that of one of his twenty-something stenographers. Dorey-Stein came to the job with no political experience and got thrown into the deep end. The New York Times called this “Bridget Jones goes to the White House” — how can you pass that up?
Inside Out and Back Again, by Thanhha Lai, $1.99. From our big immigration stories reading list (winter 2017): “When Hà’s family flees Vietnam to escape the war there, she finds it difficult to adjust to a very different kind of life in Alabama. Told in spare, simple verse, this book packs an emotional wallop and allows kids to slip inside the first person experience of being a stranger in a strange land.”
This Book is Grey, by Lindsay Ward, $1.99. The other colors aren’t always friendly to Grey, and he just wants to fit in. He decides to make his own book of awesome things that are grey (hippos, clouds, kittens, etc.), but the other colors are not so enthusiastic. This is a story about fitting in, being true to yourself, and a little bit of color theory.
Kindle Deals for February 18, 2020
Deals on literature, essays, and plant physiology books.
Today's Best Book Deals for Your Homeschool
(Prices are correct as of the time of writing, but y'all know sales move fast — check before you click the buy button! These are Amazon links — read more about how we use affiliate links to help support some of the costs of the HSL blog here.)
Never miss a deal! Sign up for an email notification every time we post here.
Well-Read Black Girl, by Glory Edim, $4.99. This anthology looks awesome. From the publisher: “Remember that moment when you first encountered a character who seemed to be written just for you? That feeling of belonging remains with readers the rest of their lives—but not everyone regularly sees themselves in the pages of a book. In this timely anthology, Glory Edim brings together original essays by some of our best black women writers to shine a light on how important it is that we all—regardless of gender, race, religion, or ability—have the opportunity to find ourselves in literature.”
Bellwether Rhapsody, by Kate Racculia, $2.99. Bellwether Rhapsody has won an ALEX award, which is given to a book that is written for adults but has special appeal for readers from ages 12 to 18. This twisty tale of a group of high school musicians snowed in at a hotel with a mysterious past will entertain readers young and old.
How Plants Work: The Science Behind the Amazing Things Plants Do, by Linda Chalker-Scott, $1.99. This book is designed for gardeners, but it is full of interesting information even if you have more of a black thumb than a green one. Chalker-Scott is an expert in plant physiology, and instead of just giving gardening advice (when to plant, where to prune, etc.), she uses her knowledge to explain why each practice matters.
STILL ON SALE
Conversations with Myself, by Nelson Mandela, $3.99. This collection of private writing by Nelson Mandela includes excerpts from his journals, drafts of speeches, notes from important conversations, and more. The documents span Mandela’s career and offer a glimpse into the personal, human side of a tremendous public figure.
Foundations of Comic Book Art: Fundamental Tool and Techniques for Sequential Artists, by John Paul Lowe, $4.99. If you or your child has been looking for a truly in-depth guide to comic book creation, this is the text you need. Lowe covers all the steps in the creation process, from sketching to storyboarding to digitizing with copious illustrations and examples.
The Brave Learner, by Julie Bogart, $4.99. It’s rare to find a deal on a book about homeschooling, particularly a book that I actually love. Julie Bogart is the encouraging mentor and friend every homeschooling parent needs. In The Brave Learner, Bogart expands the principles of her Brave Writer language arts program to offer suggestions for creating a joyful and child-centered homeschooling life in all subjects. Let Julie inspire you to bring enchantment into your education.
The Oregon Trail: The Race to Chimney Rock, by Jesse Wiley, $2.99. It’s time to introduce the magical 80s computer game The Oregon Trail to a younger generation, this time as a choose-you-own-adventure novel series! Upper elementary kids will love these historical adventures. And don’t worry, just like in the computer games, most of the choices still end in death.
Get Up, Stand Up, by Bob Marley and Cedella Marley, $1.99. This beautiful picture book combines the words of Bob Marley’s classic song with lovely illustrations that tell a story of bullying and friendship. Though intended for the very young, this book would be a great book to get older kids talking about the power of music or the ways pictures can tell a story.
Unseen: Unpublished Black History from The New York Times Photo Archives, by Dana Canedy, Damien Cave, Rachel L. Swarns, and Darcy Eveleigh, $3.99. News is being made all around us, but not every story makes it into the printed record of history. New York Times photo editor Darcy Eveleigh discovered dozens of unprinted photos in the newspaper’s archives. With the help of her colleagues, Eveleigh researched the context of these photos and brought new stories to light. You’ll find unseen sides of familiar faces and entirely new tales from history.
Aerial Geology, by Mary Caperton Morton, $2.99. Have you ever looked out the windows of an airplane and marveled at the shapes of the land below? This book visits remarkable places in North America from above to show how geologic concepts are written in the surface of the earth. Written for adults but easily accessible to interested children, this book is a great jumping off point for a deeper study of earth science. Definitely view the pictures on a full-color screen, if possible, or consider splurging on the gorgeous hardcover.
Betty Before X, by Ilyasah Shabazz and Renee Watson, $2.99. This book, which was featured in several Best Children’s Books of 2018 lists, tells a story of the Civil Rights movement through the eyes of Malcolm X’s daughter, Betty. The 11-year-old’s unique perspective will help middle-grade readers engage with the historical details in a deeper way.
Field Notes on Love, by Jennifer E. Smith, $1.99. Celebrate Valentine’s Day with another sweet YA romance. Hugo is planning a train trip across the country with his girlfriend before he starts college. When they break up, he quickly needs to find another Margaret Campbell to take her nonrefundable ticket. The two complete strangers get to know each other on the long journey, but will their lives outside the train catch up with them?
The Periodic Table: A Field Guide to the Elements, by Paul Parsons and Gail Dixon, $3.99. This vibrant and careful guide to all the elements in the periodic table will intrigue budding chemists and anyone who wants to understand how things work. Lots of vivid illustrations of the elements in their various forms round out the dense but accessible text.
And Still I Rise: Black America Since MLK, by Henry L. Gates and Kevin M. Burke, $2.99. Harvard Professor Henry Louis Gates considers the highs and lows of Black History in the last 50 years. This book is a companion to a compelling PBS series and is full of engaging pictures.
Meet Cute, by various authors, $2.99. A “meet cute” is the first time a couple meets in a romance novel. This story anthology is a collection of meet cute stories from some of the biggest names in YA fiction. You’ll love the broad diversity of characters’ racial, gender, and sexual identies. Everyone deserves a good love story.
The Cooking Gene: A Journey Through African American Culinary History in the Old South, by Michael W. Twitty, $1.99. Whether you love Southern cooking or know nothing about it, you will definitely be interested what Twitty has to say. As he tells the story of how traditional cuisine developed, he takes on slavery, racism, class, and religion.
A Weird and Wild Beauty: The Story of Yellowstone, The World’s First National Park, by Erin Peabody, $1.99. Yellowstone is a place like few others in the world, and this book traces its fascinating history. This book, aimed at teens to adults, covers the park’s discovery, the protection act that created the first national park, and the science and nature that make Yellowstone so unique. Copious historical and current photos enhance the reading experience.
Lintang and the Pirate Queen, by Tamara Moss, $2.99. This middle-grade fantasy novel is perhaps better known in Australia, where it was initially published. I love all the strong female characters. Here’s how the publisher describes it: “Lintang is an island girl who longs for daring and danger. When she meets the feared pirate Captain Shafira and her all-female crew, Lintang is determined to join them. Secrets within secrets, life-or-death battles with spectacular monsters, and hair’s breadth escapes keep readers turning the pages of a story populated by women of color who are fighters, adventurers, and leaders.”
How to Read Poetry Like a Professor: A Quippy and Sonorous Guide to Verse, by Thomas C. Foster, $1.99. Poetry doesn’t have to be intimidating. This guide to understanding the meanings of poems will help teens and adults find the beauty in verse. Along the way, Foster introduces and explains all the language scholars use to talk about poetry — meter, figurative language, rhyme structure, and more.
Josephine: The Dazzling Life of Josephine Baker, by Patricia Hruby Powell and Christian Robinson, $1.99. This lovely children’s biography of Josephine Baker covers both her performance career and her civil rights work. It is written in a jazz-style poetry that calls to mind the 1920s. The simple, vivid illustrations won the Coretta Scott King Honor distinction.
Science in Seconds: 200 Key Concepts Explained in an Instant, by Hazel Muir, $1.99. This illustrated guide to scientific concepts explains everything from thermodynamics to the Doppler effect. It’s an excellent resource for when you need a refresher or a way to answer a homework question.
In Progress: Seeing Inside a Lettering Artist’s Sketchbook and Process, from Pencil to Vector, by Jessica Hische, $2.99. I love to learn about how things are made, and this peek into a lettering artist’s work process is really fascinating to me. This is a great introduction to the terminology, tools, and business of lettering. You’ll enjoy this look behind the scenes even if you, like me, have no talent for fancy handwriting.
Super Graphic: A Visual Guide to the Comic Book Universe, by Tim Leong, $1.99. If you love comic books, this is the book for you. If you know very little about superheroes but enjoy infographics, this is also the book for you. Tim Leong breaks down the world of superheroes and supervillians by color, geographic area, height, weight, and more.
Binti, by Nnedi Okorafor, $1.99. This sci-fi novella introduces an exciting new universe. Binti, a Himba tribeswoman, is the first of her people to gain admission to a galactic university. Against her family’s wishes, she leaves her desert home to pursue higher education. A disaster on her transport ship has profound impacts on Binti’s future. This book is beautifully written and a whirlwind of activity. It’s short, but it packs a punch.
How to Draw Fantasy Art and RPG Maps: Step by Step Cartography for Gamers and Fans, by Jared Blando, $4.99. I’m a big fan of meeting kids where they are to sneak in some meaningful learning. In creating a fantasy world and building an accurate map, budding cartographers will have a crash course in geography. The book offers good starting points for discussion of geographic features, cities and transportation, political history, and heraldry. The excellent and varied illustrations break the complex process into manageable steps.
Enlightenment Now, by Steven Pinker, $1.99. This is a great deal on a massive, informative book, so snap it up! It is very easy to get stuck in thinking about all of the problems and disasters facing the modern world. Pinker uses meticulous sociological research to show that human conditions have been steadily improving since the Enlightenment. Far from resting on laurels, Pinker encourages readers to continue embracing reason and science to defend the world against the ever-encroaching tribalism, demagoguery, and fatalism that also seem to be a persistent part of human nature.
Paperback Crush, by Gabrielle Moss, $2.99. Calling all women in their thirties and forties! Did you go through a horse book phase in middle school? Did you morbidly rubberneck the doomed romances of terminally ill teens? This book is a love letter to the mass market teen paperbacks of the 1980s and 1990s. Revisit the extremely specific genres of books you loved but have probably forgotten.
A Crazy-Much Love, by Joy Jordan-Lake, $1.99. This sweet picture book tells the story of an international adoption and many milestones that follow in a young girl’s family.
George, by Alex Gino, $3.99. George may look like a boy, but she knows she is really a girl. Determined to win the role of Charlotte in her school play of Charlotte’s Web, she sets out to make sure everyone else can see her the way she sees herself. Books that address the experiences of transgender tweens are rare, and this one does it well, so snag it for your middle-grade reader.
Challenge Accepted! 253 Steps to Becoming an Anti-It Girl, by Celeste Barber, $1.99. You may have seen Australian actor and comedian Celeste Barber’s hilarious Instagram photos attempting to copy ridiculous celebrity poses. If you’re interested in her take on childbirth, what it’s like to share so much of her life on the internet, body image, and more, this book is a breezy, laugh-out-loud read. Note: If you are squeamish about crude language, this may not be the book for you.
The Blue Sword, by Robin McKinley, $1.99. From our Adventure and Suspense reading list: Orphaned girl Harry Crewe is living a perfectly ordinary life — until the day she is kidnapped by the king of the Hillfolk to fulfill a destiny she never imagined. Is Harry really a true warrior who can wield the legendary blue sword? And even if she is, will she believe in herself enough to seize her fate?
Waiting, by Kevin Henkes, $1.99. This sweet picture book captures the emotional essence of childhood. Five toys sit by a window, each waiting for something different to happen. Simple, but resonant text and warm illustrations make this a delightful read.
The Stuff of Thought: Language as a Window into Human Nature, by Steven Pinker, $4.99. This book is fascinating and long. I bought it when I couldn’t finish my library copy in time (and I wanted to be able to refer to it again). Word nerds and anthropology fans will love this genre mashup. Find out what the words people use for swearing, humor, and metaphor say about us as human beings.
From the Corner of the Oval, by Beck Dorey-Stein, $4.99. This dishy political memoir describes the Obama White House from an unusual perspective, that of one of his twenty-something stenographers. Dorey-Stein came to the job with no political experience and got thrown into the deep end. The New York Times called this “Bridget Jones goes to the White House” — how can you pass that up?
Inside Out and Back Again, by Thanhha Lai, $1.99. From our big immigration stories reading list (winter 2017): “When Hà’s family flees Vietnam to escape the war there, she finds it difficult to adjust to a very different kind of life in Alabama. Told in spare, simple verse, this book packs an emotional wallop and allows kids to slip inside the first person experience of being a stranger in a strange land.”
This Book is Grey, by Lindsay Ward, $1.99. The other colors aren’t always friendly to Grey, and he just wants to fit in. He decides to make his own book of awesome things that are grey (hippos, clouds, kittens, etc.), but the other colors are not so enthusiastic. This is a story about fitting in, being true to yourself, and a little bit of color theory.
Kindle Deals for February 17, 2020
Explore comic book creation, ways to add delight your homeschool, and the thoughts of a great man.
Today's Best Book Deals for Your Homeschool
(Prices are correct as of the time of writing, but y'all know sales move fast — check before you click the buy button! These are Amazon links — read more about how we use affiliate links to help support some of the costs of the HSL blog here.)
Never miss a deal! Sign up for an email notification every time we post here.
Conversations with Myself, by Nelson Mandela, $3.99. This collection of private writing by Nelson Mandela includes excerpts from his journals, drafts of speeches, notes from important conversations, and more. The documents span Mandela’s career and offer a glimpse into the personal, human side of a tremendous public figure.
Foundations of Comic Book Art: Fundamental Tool and Techniques for Sequential Artists, by John Paul Lowe, $4.99. If you or your child has been looking for a truly in-depth guide to comic book creation, this is the text you need. Lowe covers all the steps in the creation process, from sketching to storyboarding to digitizing with copious illustrations and examples.
The Brave Learner, by Julie Bogart, $4.99. It’s rare to find a deal on a book about homeschooling, particularly a book that I actually love. Julie Bogart is the encouraging mentor and friend every homeschooling parent needs. In The Brave Learner, Bogart expands the principles of her Brave Writer language arts program to offer suggestions for creating a joyful and child-centered homeschooling life in all subjects. Let Julie inspire you to bring enchantment into your education.
STILL ON SALE
Ivy and Bean Bundle: 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.”
I Wanna Be Where You Are, by Kristina Forest, $2.99. This YA rom-com/road trip novel sounds like a blast. Here’s the publisher’s description: “When Chloe Pierce’s mom forbids her to apply for a spot at the dance conservatory of her dreams, she devises a secret plan to drive two hundred miles to the nearest audition. But Chloe hits her first speed bump when her annoying neighbor Eli insists upon hitching a ride, threatening to tell Chloe’s mom if she leaves him and his smelly dog, Geezer, behind. So now Chloe’s chasing her ballet dreams down the east coast—two unwanted (but kinda cute) passengers in her car, butterflies in her stomach, and a really dope playlist on repeat.”
The Oregon Trail: The Race to Chimney Rock, by Jesse Wiley, $2.99. It’s time to introduce the magical 80s computer game The Oregon Trail to a younger generation, this time as a choose-you-own-adventure novel series! Upper elementary kids will love these historical adventures. And don’t worry, just like in the computer games, most of the choices still end in death.
Get Up, Stand Up, by Bob Marley and Cedella Marley, $1.99. This beautiful picture book combines the words of Bob Marley’s classic song with lovely illustrations that tell a story of bullying and friendship. Though intended for the very young, this book would be a great book to get older kids talking about the power of music or the ways pictures can tell a story.
Unseen: Unpublished Black History from The New York Times Photo Archives, by Dana Canedy, Damien Cave, Rachel L. Swarns, and Darcy Eveleigh, $3.99. News is being made all around us, but not every story makes it into the printed record of history. New York Times photo editor Darcy Eveleigh discovered dozens of unprinted photos in the newspaper’s archives. With the help of her colleagues, Eveleigh researched the context of these photos and brought new stories to light. You’ll find unseen sides of familiar faces and entirely new tales from history.
Aerial Geology, by Mary Caperton Morton, $2.99. Have you ever looked out the windows of an airplane and marveled at the shapes of the land below? This book visits remarkable places in North America from above to show how geologic concepts are written in the surface of the earth. Written for adults but easily accessible to interested children, this book is a great jumping off point for a deeper study of earth science. Definitely view the pictures on a full-color screen, if possible, or consider splurging on the gorgeous hardcover.
Betty Before X, by Ilyasah Shabazz and Renee Watson, $2.99. This book, which was featured in several Best Children’s Books of 2018 lists, tells a story of the Civil Rights movement through the eyes of Malcolm X’s daughter, Betty. The 11-year-old’s unique perspective will help middle-grade readers engage with the historical details in a deeper way.
Field Notes on Love, by Jennifer E. Smith, $1.99. Celebrate Valentine’s Day with another sweet YA romance. Hugo is planning a train trip across the country with his girlfriend before he starts college. When they break up, he quickly needs to find another Margaret Campbell to take her nonrefundable ticket. The two complete strangers get to know each other on the long journey, but will their lives outside the train catch up with them?
The Periodic Table: A Field Guide to the Elements, by Paul Parsons and Gail Dixon, $3.99. This vibrant and careful guide to all the elements in the periodic table will intrigue budding chemists and anyone who wants to understand how things work. Lots of vivid illustrations of the elements in their various forms round out the dense but accessible text.
And Still I Rise: Black America Since MLK, by Henry L. Gates and Kevin M. Burke, $2.99. Harvard Professor Henry Louis Gates considers the highs and lows of Black History in the last 50 years. This book is a companion to a compelling PBS series and is full of engaging pictures.
Meet Cute, by various authors, $2.99. A “meet cute” is the first time a couple meets in a romance novel. This story anthology is a collection of meet cute stories from some of the biggest names in YA fiction. You’ll love the broad diversity of characters’ racial, gender, and sexual identies. Everyone deserves a good love story.
The Cooking Gene: A Journey Through African American Culinary History in the Old South, by Michael W. Twitty, $1.99. Whether you love Southern cooking or know nothing about it, you will definitely be interested what Twitty has to say. As he tells the story of how traditional cuisine developed, he takes on slavery, racism, class, and religion.
A Weird and Wild Beauty: The Story of Yellowstone, The World’s First National Park, by Erin Peabody, $1.99. Yellowstone is a place like few others in the world, and this book traces its fascinating history. This book, aimed at teens to adults, covers the park’s discovery, the protection act that created the first national park, and the science and nature that make Yellowstone so unique. Copious historical and current photos enhance the reading experience.
Lintang and the Pirate Queen, by Tamara Moss, $2.99. This middle-grade fantasy novel is perhaps better known in Australia, where it was initially published. I love all the strong female characters. Here’s how the publisher describes it: “Lintang is an island girl who longs for daring and danger. When she meets the feared pirate Captain Shafira and her all-female crew, Lintang is determined to join them. Secrets within secrets, life-or-death battles with spectacular monsters, and hair’s breadth escapes keep readers turning the pages of a story populated by women of color who are fighters, adventurers, and leaders.”
How to Read Poetry Like a Professor: A Quippy and Sonorous Guide to Verse, by Thomas C. Foster, $1.99. Poetry doesn’t have to be intimidating. This guide to understanding the meanings of poems will help teens and adults find the beauty in verse. Along the way, Foster introduces and explains all the language scholars use to talk about poetry — meter, figurative language, rhyme structure, and more.
Josephine: The Dazzling Life of Josephine Baker, by Patricia Hruby Powell and Christian Robinson, $1.99. This lovely children’s biography of Josephine Baker covers both her performance career and her civil rights work. It is written in a jazz-style poetry that calls to mind the 1920s. The simple, vivid illustrations won the Coretta Scott King Honor distinction.
Science in Seconds: 200 Key Concepts Explained in an Instant, by Hazel Muir, $1.99. This illustrated guide to scientific concepts explains everything from thermodynamics to the Doppler effect. It’s an excellent resource for when you need a refresher or a way to answer a homework question.
In Progress: Seeing Inside a Lettering Artist’s Sketchbook and Process, from Pencil to Vector, by Jessica Hische, $2.99. I love to learn about how things are made, and this peek into a lettering artist’s work process is really fascinating to me. This is a great introduction to the terminology, tools, and business of lettering. You’ll enjoy this look behind the scenes even if you, like me, have no talent for fancy handwriting.
Super Graphic: A Visual Guide to the Comic Book Universe, by Tim Leong, $1.99. If you love comic books, this is the book for you. If you know very little about superheroes but enjoy infographics, this is also the book for you. Tim Leong breaks down the world of superheroes and supervillians by color, geographic area, height, weight, and more.
Binti, by Nnedi Okorafor, $1.99. This sci-fi novella introduces an exciting new universe. Binti, a Himba tribeswoman, is the first of her people to gain admission to a galactic university. Against her family’s wishes, she leaves her desert home to pursue higher education. A disaster on her transport ship has profound impacts on Binti’s future. This book is beautifully written and a whirlwind of activity. It’s short, but it packs a punch.
How to Draw Fantasy Art and RPG Maps: Step by Step Cartography for Gamers and Fans, by Jared Blando, $4.99. I’m a big fan of meeting kids where they are to sneak in some meaningful learning. In creating a fantasy world and building an accurate map, budding cartographers will have a crash course in geography. The book offers good starting points for discussion of geographic features, cities and transportation, political history, and heraldry. The excellent and varied illustrations break the complex process into manageable steps.
Enlightenment Now, by Steven Pinker, $1.99. This is a great deal on a massive, informative book, so snap it up! It is very easy to get stuck in thinking about all of the problems and disasters facing the modern world. Pinker uses meticulous sociological research to show that human conditions have been steadily improving since the Enlightenment. Far from resting on laurels, Pinker encourages readers to continue embracing reason and science to defend the world against the ever-encroaching tribalism, demagoguery, and fatalism that also seem to be a persistent part of human nature.
Paperback Crush, by Gabrielle Moss, $2.99. Calling all women in their thirties and forties! Did you go through a horse book phase in middle school? Did you morbidly rubberneck the doomed romances of terminally ill teens? This book is a love letter to the mass market teen paperbacks of the 1980s and 1990s. Revisit the extremely specific genres of books you loved but have probably forgotten.
A Crazy-Much Love, by Joy Jordan-Lake, $1.99. This sweet picture book tells the story of an international adoption and many milestones that follow in a young girl’s family.
George, by Alex Gino, $3.99. George may look like a boy, but she knows she is really a girl. Determined to win the role of Charlotte in her school play of Charlotte’s Web, she sets out to make sure everyone else can see her the way she sees herself. Books that address the experiences of transgender tweens are rare, and this one does it well, so snag it for your middle-grade reader.
Challenge Accepted! 253 Steps to Becoming an Anti-It Girl, by Celeste Barber, $1.99. You may have seen Australian actor and comedian Celeste Barber’s hilarious Instagram photos attempting to copy ridiculous celebrity poses. If you’re interested in her take on childbirth, what it’s like to share so much of her life on the internet, body image, and more, this book is a breezy, laugh-out-loud read. Note: If you are squeamish about crude language, this may not be the book for you.
The Blue Sword, by Robin McKinley, $1.99. From our Adventure and Suspense reading list: Orphaned girl Harry Crewe is living a perfectly ordinary life — until the day she is kidnapped by the king of the Hillfolk to fulfill a destiny she never imagined. Is Harry really a true warrior who can wield the legendary blue sword? And even if she is, will she believe in herself enough to seize her fate?
Waiting, by Kevin Henkes, $1.99. This sweet picture book captures the emotional essence of childhood. Five toys sit by a window, each waiting for something different to happen. Simple, but resonant text and warm illustrations make this a delightful read.
The Stuff of Thought: Language as a Window into Human Nature, by Steven Pinker, $4.99. This book is fascinating and long. I bought it when I couldn’t finish my library copy in time (and I wanted to be able to refer to it again). Word nerds and anthropology fans will love this genre mashup. Find out what the words people use for swearing, humor, and metaphor say about us as human beings.
From the Corner of the Oval, by Beck Dorey-Stein, $4.99. This dishy political memoir describes the Obama White House from an unusual perspective, that of one of his twenty-something stenographers. Dorey-Stein came to the job with no political experience and got thrown into the deep end. The New York Times called this “Bridget Jones goes to the White House” — how can you pass that up?
Inside Out and Back Again, by Thanhha Lai, $1.99. From our big immigration stories reading list (winter 2017): “When Hà’s family flees Vietnam to escape the war there, she finds it difficult to adjust to a very different kind of life in Alabama. Told in spare, simple verse, this book packs an emotional wallop and allows kids to slip inside the first person experience of being a stranger in a strange land.”
This Book is Grey, by Lindsay Ward, $1.99. The other colors aren’t always friendly to Grey, and he just wants to fit in. He decides to make his own book of awesome things that are grey (hippos, clouds, kittens, etc.), but the other colors are not so enthusiastic. This is a story about fitting in, being true to yourself, and a little bit of color theory.
Kindle Deals for February 15, 2020
Today’s extra large batch of deals includes some new finds and some old favorites!
Today's Best Book Deals for Your Homeschool
(Prices are correct as of the time of writing, but y'all know sales move fast — check before you click the buy button! These are Amazon links — read more about how we use affiliate links to help support some of the costs of the HSL blog here.)
Never miss a deal! Sign up for an email notification every time we post here.
They All Saw a Cat, by Brendan Wenzel, $1.99. This simple children’s book takes on an important concept: perspective. As the cat walks through the day, each creature it encounters sees it in a different way. You could use this book to begin a great discussion about the visual abilities of different animals.
W.E.B. Du Bois’s Data Portraits: Visualizing Black America, by The W.E.B. Du Bois Center at the University of Massachusetts, $2.99. Did you know that W.E.B. Du Bois was an early innovator of the infographic? The W.E.B. Du Bois Center has collected his work into this fascinating book that offers a detailed look at race in the early 20th century.
An Atlas of Countries that Don’t Exist: A Compendium of Fifty Unrecognized and Largely Unnoticed States, by Nick Middleton, $2.99. For a country to exist, other countries must recognize its borders. Nick Middleton describes the history, leaders, and geography of 50 countries that have not been formally acknowledged. Design fans will appreciate the beautiful layouts.
Ivy and Bean Bundle: 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.”
Liar, Temptress, Soldier, Spy, by Karen Abbott, $2.99. I am not a Civil War buff, but this is the kind of subject matter I can get behind. Karen Abbott, in her signature thriller style, introduces us to four intrepid women working as spies. You’ll learn about the woman who posed as a soldier to get battlefield details, the widow who used her feminine charms to wring details from politicians, and more. This glimpse at untold history is also a pageturner.
Stuff Matters, by Mark Miodownik, $2.99. This is one of my favorite types of books — the ones that provide explanations for all the elements of everyday life. Why is glass see-through? Why is metal reflective? Miodownik is a materials scientist who can discuss each of the 11 topics with scientific detail and a good deal of humor. Occasional illustrations help make the science more accessible.
STILL ON SALE
I Love You Already!, by Jory John and Benji Davies, $1.99. Snuggle up with your favorite small person to read this funny picture book. From the publisher: “Bear can't wait to spend a pleasant day by himself. But his persistent next-door neighbor, Duck, wants to take a morning stroll . . . with Bear. He just wants Bear to like him already. . . Jory John, author of Penguin Problems and The Bad Seed, and Benji Davies, creator of The Storm Whale, join together again to bring us this standout hilarious story of unrequited admiration that will leave children laughing at every page. Perfect for Valentine’s Day or any story time!”
Love From Paddington, by Michael Bond, $1.99. The lovable bear from Peru is back with new adventures. This book is told in letters written to Paddington’s Aunt Lucy. Kids will love the epistolary format and Paddington’s often hilarious adventures and foibles.
The Love Letters of Abelard and Lily, by Laura Creedle, $2.99. This YA book tells the ultimate word nerd love story. Two high-schoolers meet in detention and are drawn together by their mutual appreciation for medieval Latin love poetry.
I Wanna Be Where You Are, by Kristina Forest, $2.99. This YA rom-com/road trip novel sounds like a blast. Here’s the publisher’s description: “When Chloe Pierce’s mom forbids her to apply for a spot at the dance conservatory of her dreams, she devises a secret plan to drive two hundred miles to the nearest audition. But Chloe hits her first speed bump when her annoying neighbor Eli insists upon hitching a ride, threatening to tell Chloe’s mom if she leaves him and his smelly dog, Geezer, behind. So now Chloe’s chasing her ballet dreams down the east coast—two unwanted (but kinda cute) passengers in her car, butterflies in her stomach, and a really dope playlist on repeat.”
The Oregon Trail: The Race to Chimney Rock, by Jesse Wiley, $2.99. It’s time to introduce the magical 80s computer game The Oregon Trail to a younger generation, this time as a choose-you-own-adventure novel series! Upper elementary kids will love these historical adventures. And don’t worry, just like in the computer games, most of the choices still end in death.
Get Up, Stand Up, by Bob Marley and Cedella Marley, $1.99. This beautiful picture book combines the words of Bob Marley’s classic song with lovely illustrations that tell a story of bullying and friendship. Though intended for the very young, this book would be a great book to get older kids talking about the power of music or the ways pictures can tell a story.
Unseen: Unpublished Black History from The New York Times Photo Archives, by Dana Canedy, Damien Cave, Rachel L. Swarns, and Darcy Eveleigh, $3.99. News is being made all around us, but not every story makes it into the printed record of history. New York Times photo editor Darcy Eveleigh discovered dozens of unprinted photos in the newspaper’s archives. With the help of her colleagues, Eveleigh researched the context of these photos and brought new stories to light. You’ll find unseen sides of familiar faces and entirely new tales from history.
Aerial Geology, by Mary Caperton Morton, $2.99. Have you ever looked out the windows of an airplane and marveled at the shapes of the land below? This book visits remarkable places in North America from above to show how geologic concepts are written in the surface of the earth. Written for adults but easily accessible to interested children, this book is a great jumping off point for a deeper study of earth science. Definitely view the pictures on a full-color screen, if possible, or consider splurging on the gorgeous hardcover.
Betty Before X, by Ilyasah Shabazz and Renee Watson, $2.99. This book, which was featured in several Best Children’s Books of 2018 lists, tells a story of the Civil Rights movement through the eyes of Malcolm X’s daughter, Betty. The 11-year-old’s unique perspective will help middle-grade readers engage with the historical details in a deeper way.
Field Notes on Love, by Jennifer E. Smith, $1.99. Celebrate Valentine’s Day with another sweet YA romance. Hugo is planning a train trip across the country with his girlfriend before he starts college. When they break up, he quickly needs to find another Margaret Campbell to take her nonrefundable ticket. The two complete strangers get to know each other on the long journey, but will their lives outside the train catch up with them?
The Periodic Table: A Field Guide to the Elements, by Paul Parsons and Gail Dixon, $3.99. This vibrant and careful guide to all the elements in the periodic table will intrigue budding chemists and anyone who wants to understand how things work. Lots of vivid illustrations of the elements in their various forms round out the dense but accessible text.
And Still I Rise: Black America Since MLK, by Henry L. Gates and Kevin M. Burke, $2.99. Harvard Professor Henry Louis Gates considers the highs and lows of Black History in the last 50 years. This book is a companion to a compelling PBS series and is full of engaging pictures.
Meet Cute, by various authors, $2.99. A “meet cute” is the first time a couple meets in a romance novel. This story anthology is a collection of meet cute stories from some of the biggest names in YA fiction. You’ll love the broad diversity of characters’ racial, gender, and sexual identies. Everyone deserves a good love story.
The Cooking Gene: A Journey Through African American Culinary History in the Old South, by Michael W. Twitty, $1.99. Whether you love Southern cooking or know nothing about it, you will definitely be interested what Twitty has to say. As he tells the story of how traditional cuisine developed, he takes on slavery, racism, class, and religion.
A Weird and Wild Beauty: The Story of Yellowstone, The World’s First National Park, by Erin Peabody, $1.99. Yellowstone is a place like few others in the world, and this book traces its fascinating history. This book, aimed at teens to adults, covers the park’s discovery, the protection act that created the first national park, and the science and nature that make Yellowstone so unique. Copious historical and current photos enhance the reading experience.
Lintang and the Pirate Queen, by Tamara Moss, $2.99. This middle-grade fantasy novel is perhaps better known in Australia, where it was initially published. I love all the strong female characters. Here’s how the publisher describes it: “Lintang is an island girl who longs for daring and danger. When she meets the feared pirate Captain Shafira and her all-female crew, Lintang is determined to join them. Secrets within secrets, life-or-death battles with spectacular monsters, and hair’s breadth escapes keep readers turning the pages of a story populated by women of color who are fighters, adventurers, and leaders.”
How to Read Poetry Like a Professor: A Quippy and Sonorous Guide to Verse, by Thomas C. Foster, $1.99. Poetry doesn’t have to be intimidating. This guide to understanding the meanings of poems will help teens and adults find the beauty in verse. Along the way, Foster introduces and explains all the language scholars use to talk about poetry — meter, figurative language, rhyme structure, and more.
Josephine: The Dazzling Life of Josephine Baker, by Patricia Hruby Powell and Christian Robinson, $1.99. This lovely children’s biography of Josephine Baker covers both her performance career and her civil rights work. It is written in a jazz-style poetry that calls to mind the 1920s. The simple, vivid illustrations won the Coretta Scott King Honor distinction.
Science in Seconds: 200 Key Concepts Explained in an Instant, by Hazel Muir, $1.99. This illustrated guide to scientific concepts explains everything from thermodynamics to the Doppler effect. It’s an excellent resource for when you need a refresher or a way to answer a homework question.
In Progress: Seeing Inside a Lettering Artist’s Sketchbook and Process, from Pencil to Vector, by Jessica Hische, $2.99. I love to learn about how things are made, and this peek into a lettering artist’s work process is really fascinating to me. This is a great introduction to the terminology, tools, and business of lettering. You’ll enjoy this look behind the scenes even if you, like me, have no talent for fancy handwriting.
Super Graphic: A Visual Guide to the Comic Book Universe, by Tim Leong, $1.99. If you love comic books, this is the book for you. If you know very little about superheroes but enjoy infographics, this is also the book for you. Tim Leong breaks down the world of superheroes and supervillians by color, geographic area, height, weight, and more.
Binti, by Nnedi Okorafor, $1.99. This sci-fi novella introduces an exciting new universe. Binti, a Himba tribeswoman, is the first of her people to gain admission to a galactic university. Against her family’s wishes, she leaves her desert home to pursue higher education. A disaster on her transport ship has profound impacts on Binti’s future. This book is beautifully written and a whirlwind of activity. It’s short, but it packs a punch.
How to Draw Fantasy Art and RPG Maps: Step by Step Cartography for Gamers and Fans, by Jared Blando, $4.99. I’m a big fan of meeting kids where they are to sneak in some meaningful learning. In creating a fantasy world and building an accurate map, budding cartographers will have a crash course in geography. The book offers good starting points for discussion of geographic features, cities and transportation, political history, and heraldry. The excellent and varied illustrations break the complex process into manageable steps.
Enlightenment Now, by Steven Pinker, $1.99. This is a great deal on a massive, informative book, so snap it up! It is very easy to get stuck in thinking about all of the problems and disasters facing the modern world. Pinker uses meticulous sociological research to show that human conditions have been steadily improving since the Enlightenment. Far from resting on laurels, Pinker encourages readers to continue embracing reason and science to defend the world against the ever-encroaching tribalism, demagoguery, and fatalism that also seem to be a persistent part of human nature.
Paperback Crush, by Gabrielle Moss, $2.99. Calling all women in their thirties and forties! Did you go through a horse book phase in middle school? Did you morbidly rubberneck the doomed romances of terminally ill teens? This book is a love letter to the mass market teen paperbacks of the 1980s and 1990s. Revisit the extremely specific genres of books you loved but have probably forgotten.
A Crazy-Much Love, by Joy Jordan-Lake, $1.99. This sweet picture book tells the story of an international adoption and many milestones that follow in a young girl’s family.
George, by Alex Gino, $3.99. George may look like a boy, but she knows she is really a girl. Determined to win the role of Charlotte in her school play of Charlotte’s Web, she sets out to make sure everyone else can see her the way she sees herself. Books that address the experiences of transgender tweens are rare, and this one does it well, so snag it for your middle-grade reader.
Challenge Accepted! 253 Steps to Becoming an Anti-It Girl, by Celeste Barber, $1.99. You may have seen Australian actor and comedian Celeste Barber’s hilarious Instagram photos attempting to copy ridiculous celebrity poses. If you’re interested in her take on childbirth, what it’s like to share so much of her life on the internet, body image, and more, this book is a breezy, laugh-out-loud read. Note: If you are squeamish about crude language, this may not be the book for you.
The Blue Sword, by Robin McKinley, $1.99. From our Adventure and Suspense reading list: Orphaned girl Harry Crewe is living a perfectly ordinary life — until the day she is kidnapped by the king of the Hillfolk to fulfill a destiny she never imagined. Is Harry really a true warrior who can wield the legendary blue sword? And even if she is, will she believe in herself enough to seize her fate?
Waiting, by Kevin Henkes, $1.99. This sweet picture book captures the emotional essence of childhood. Five toys sit by a window, each waiting for something different to happen. Simple, but resonant text and warm illustrations make this a delightful read.
The Stuff of Thought: Language as a Window into Human Nature, by Steven Pinker, $4.99. This book is fascinating and long. I bought it when I couldn’t finish my library copy in time (and I wanted to be able to refer to it again). Word nerds and anthropology fans will love this genre mashup. Find out what the words people use for swearing, humor, and metaphor say about us as human beings.
From the Corner of the Oval, by Beck Dorey-Stein, $4.99. This dishy political memoir describes the Obama White House from an unusual perspective, that of one of his twenty-something stenographers. Dorey-Stein came to the job with no political experience and got thrown into the deep end. The New York Times called this “Bridget Jones goes to the White House” — how can you pass that up?
Inside Out and Back Again, by Thanhha Lai, $1.99. From our big immigration stories reading list (winter 2017): “When Hà’s family flees Vietnam to escape the war there, she finds it difficult to adjust to a very different kind of life in Alabama. Told in spare, simple verse, this book packs an emotional wallop and allows kids to slip inside the first person experience of being a stranger in a strange land.”
This Book is Grey, by Lindsay Ward, $1.99. The other colors aren’t always friendly to Grey, and he just wants to fit in. He decides to make his own book of awesome things that are grey (hippos, clouds, kittens, etc.), but the other colors are not so enthusiastic. This is a story about fitting in, being true to yourself, and a little bit of color theory.
Kindle Deals for February 14, 2020
Love is in the air in today’s 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.)
Never miss a deal! Sign up for an email notification every time we post here.
I Love You Already!, by Jory John and Benji Davies, $1.99. Snuggle up with your favorite small person to read this funny picture book. From the publisher: “Bear can't wait to spend a pleasant day by himself. But his persistent next-door neighbor, Duck, wants to take a morning stroll . . . with Bear. He just wants Bear to like him already. . . Jory John, author of Penguin Problems and The Bad Seed, and Benji Davies, creator of The Storm Whale, join together again to bring us this standout hilarious story of unrequited admiration that will leave children laughing at every page. Perfect for Valentine’s Day or any story time!”
Love From Paddington, by Michael Bond, $1.99. The lovable bear from Peru is back with new adventures. This book is told in letters written to Paddington’s Aunt Lucy. Kids will love the epistolary format and Paddington’s often hilarious adventures and foibles.
The Love Letters of Abelard and Lily, by Laura Creedle, $2.99. This YA book tells the ultimate word nerd love story. Two high-schoolers meet in detention and are drawn together by their mutual appreciation for medieval Latin love poetry.
STILL ON SALE
I Wanna Be Where You Are, by Kristina Forest, $2.99. This YA rom-com/road trip novel sounds like a blast. Here’s the publisher’s description: “When Chloe Pierce’s mom forbids her to apply for a spot at the dance conservatory of her dreams, she devises a secret plan to drive two hundred miles to the nearest audition. But Chloe hits her first speed bump when her annoying neighbor Eli insists upon hitching a ride, threatening to tell Chloe’s mom if she leaves him and his smelly dog, Geezer, behind. So now Chloe’s chasing her ballet dreams down the east coast—two unwanted (but kinda cute) passengers in her car, butterflies in her stomach, and a really dope playlist on repeat.”
The Oregon Trail: The Race to Chimney Rock, by Jesse Wiley, $2.99. It’s time to introduce the magical 80s computer game The Oregon Trail to a younger generation, this time as a choose-you-own-adventure novel series! Upper elementary kids will love these historical adventures. And don’t worry, just like in the computer games, most of the choices still end in death.
Get Up, Stand Up, by Bob Marley and Cedella Marley, $1.99. This beautiful picture book combines the words of Bob Marley’s classic song with lovely illustrations that tell a story of bullying and friendship. Though intended for the very young, this book would be a great book to get older kids talking about the power of music or the ways pictures can tell a story.
Unseen: Unpublished Black History from The New York Times Photo Archives, by Dana Canedy, Damien Cave, Rachel L. Swarns, and Darcy Eveleigh, $3.99. News is being made all around us, but not every story makes it into the printed record of history. New York Times photo editor Darcy Eveleigh discovered dozens of unprinted photos in the newspaper’s archives. With the help of her colleagues, Eveleigh researched the context of these photos and brought new stories to light. You’ll find unseen sides of familiar faces and entirely new tales from history.
Aerial Geology, by Mary Caperton Morton, $2.99. Have you ever looked out the windows of an airplane and marveled at the shapes of the land below? This book visits remarkable places in North America from above to show how geologic concepts are written in the surface of the earth. Written for adults but easily accessible to interested children, this book is a great jumping off point for a deeper study of earth science. Definitely view the pictures on a full-color screen, if possible, or consider splurging on the gorgeous hardcover.
Betty Before X, by Ilyasah Shabazz and Renee Watson, $2.99. This book, which was featured in several Best Children’s Books of 2018 lists, tells a story of the Civil Rights movement through the eyes of Malcolm X’s daughter, Betty. The 11-year-old’s unique perspective will help middle-grade readers engage with the historical details in a deeper way.
Field Notes on Love, by Jennifer E. Smith, $1.99. Celebrate Valentine’s Day with another sweet YA romance. Hugo is planning a train trip across the country with his girlfriend before he starts college. When they break up, he quickly needs to find another Margaret Campbell to take her nonrefundable ticket. The two complete strangers get to know each other on the long journey, but will their lives outside the train catch up with them?
The Periodic Table: A Field Guide to the Elements, by Paul Parsons and Gail Dixon, $3.99. This vibrant and careful guide to all the elements in the periodic table will intrigue budding chemists and anyone who wants to understand how things work. Lots of vivid illustrations of the elements in their various forms round out the dense but accessible text.
And Still I Rise: Black America Since MLK, by Henry L. Gates and Kevin M. Burke, $2.99. Harvard Professor Henry Louis Gates considers the highs and lows of Black History in the last 50 years. This book is a companion to a compelling PBS series and is full of engaging pictures.
Meet Cute, by various authors, $2.99. A “meet cute” is the first time a couple meets in a romance novel. This story anthology is a collection of meet cute stories from some of the biggest names in YA fiction. You’ll love the broad diversity of characters’ racial, gender, and sexual identies. Everyone deserves a good love story.
The Cooking Gene: A Journey Through African American Culinary History in the Old South, by Michael W. Twitty, $1.99. Whether you love Southern cooking or know nothing about it, you will definitely be interested what Twitty has to say. As he tells the story of how traditional cuisine developed, he takes on slavery, racism, class, and religion.
A Weird and Wild Beauty: The Story of Yellowstone, The World’s First National Park, by Erin Peabody, $1.99. Yellowstone is a place like few others in the world, and this book traces its fascinating history. This book, aimed at teens to adults, covers the park’s discovery, the protection act that created the first national park, and the science and nature that make Yellowstone so unique. Copious historical and current photos enhance the reading experience.
Lintang and the Pirate Queen, by Tamara Moss, $2.99. This middle-grade fantasy novel is perhaps better known in Australia, where it was initially published. I love all the strong female characters. Here’s how the publisher describes it: “Lintang is an island girl who longs for daring and danger. When she meets the feared pirate Captain Shafira and her all-female crew, Lintang is determined to join them. Secrets within secrets, life-or-death battles with spectacular monsters, and hair’s breadth escapes keep readers turning the pages of a story populated by women of color who are fighters, adventurers, and leaders.”
How to Read Poetry Like a Professor: A Quippy and Sonorous Guide to Verse, by Thomas C. Foster, $1.99. Poetry doesn’t have to be intimidating. This guide to understanding the meanings of poems will help teens and adults find the beauty in verse. Along the way, Foster introduces and explains all the language scholars use to talk about poetry — meter, figurative language, rhyme structure, and more.
Josephine: The Dazzling Life of Josephine Baker, by Patricia Hruby Powell and Christian Robinson, $1.99. This lovely children’s biography of Josephine Baker covers both her performance career and her civil rights work. It is written in a jazz-style poetry that calls to mind the 1920s. The simple, vivid illustrations won the Coretta Scott King Honor distinction.
Science in Seconds: 200 Key Concepts Explained in an Instant, by Hazel Muir, $1.99. This illustrated guide to scientific concepts explains everything from thermodynamics to the Doppler effect. It’s an excellent resource for when you need a refresher or a way to answer a homework question.
In Progress: Seeing Inside a Lettering Artist’s Sketchbook and Process, from Pencil to Vector, by Jessica Hische, $2.99. I love to learn about how things are made, and this peek into a lettering artist’s work process is really fascinating to me. This is a great introduction to the terminology, tools, and business of lettering. You’ll enjoy this look behind the scenes even if you, like me, have no talent for fancy handwriting.
Super Graphic: A Visual Guide to the Comic Book Universe, by Tim Leong, $1.99. If you love comic books, this is the book for you. If you know very little about superheroes but enjoy infographics, this is also the book for you. Tim Leong breaks down the world of superheroes and supervillians by color, geographic area, height, weight, and more.
Binti, by Nnedi Okorafor, $1.99. This sci-fi novella introduces an exciting new universe. Binti, a Himba tribeswoman, is the first of her people to gain admission to a galactic university. Against her family’s wishes, she leaves her desert home to pursue higher education. A disaster on her transport ship has profound impacts on Binti’s future. This book is beautifully written and a whirlwind of activity. It’s short, but it packs a punch.
How to Draw Fantasy Art and RPG Maps: Step by Step Cartography for Gamers and Fans, by Jared Blando, $4.99. I’m a big fan of meeting kids where they are to sneak in some meaningful learning. In creating a fantasy world and building an accurate map, budding cartographers will have a crash course in geography. The book offers good starting points for discussion of geographic features, cities and transportation, political history, and heraldry. The excellent and varied illustrations break the complex process into manageable steps.
Enlightenment Now, by Steven Pinker, $1.99. This is a great deal on a massive, informative book, so snap it up! It is very easy to get stuck in thinking about all of the problems and disasters facing the modern world. Pinker uses meticulous sociological research to show that human conditions have been steadily improving since the Enlightenment. Far from resting on laurels, Pinker encourages readers to continue embracing reason and science to defend the world against the ever-encroaching tribalism, demagoguery, and fatalism that also seem to be a persistent part of human nature.
Paperback Crush, by Gabrielle Moss, $2.99. Calling all women in their thirties and forties! Did you go through a horse book phase in middle school? Did you morbidly rubberneck the doomed romances of terminally ill teens? This book is a love letter to the mass market teen paperbacks of the 1980s and 1990s. Revisit the extremely specific genres of books you loved but have probably forgotten.
A Crazy-Much Love, by Joy Jordan-Lake, $1.99. This sweet picture book tells the story of an international adoption and many milestones that follow in a young girl’s family.
George, by Alex Gino, $3.99. George may look like a boy, but she knows she is really a girl. Determined to win the role of Charlotte in her school play of Charlotte’s Web, she sets out to make sure everyone else can see her the way she sees herself. Books that address the experiences of transgender tweens are rare, and this one does it well, so snag it for your middle-grade reader.
Challenge Accepted! 253 Steps to Becoming an Anti-It Girl, by Celeste Barber, $1.99. You may have seen Australian actor and comedian Celeste Barber’s hilarious Instagram photos attempting to copy ridiculous celebrity poses. If you’re interested in her take on childbirth, what it’s like to share so much of her life on the internet, body image, and more, this book is a breezy, laugh-out-loud read. Note: If you are squeamish about crude language, this may not be the book for you.
The Blue Sword, by Robin McKinley, $1.99. From our Adventure and Suspense reading list: Orphaned girl Harry Crewe is living a perfectly ordinary life — until the day she is kidnapped by the king of the Hillfolk to fulfill a destiny she never imagined. Is Harry really a true warrior who can wield the legendary blue sword? And even if she is, will she believe in herself enough to seize her fate?
Waiting, by Kevin Henkes, $1.99. This sweet picture book captures the emotional essence of childhood. Five toys sit by a window, each waiting for something different to happen. Simple, but resonant text and warm illustrations make this a delightful read.
The Stuff of Thought: Language as a Window into Human Nature, by Steven Pinker, $4.99. This book is fascinating and long. I bought it when I couldn’t finish my library copy in time (and I wanted to be able to refer to it again). Word nerds and anthropology fans will love this genre mashup. Find out what the words people use for swearing, humor, and metaphor say about us as human beings.
From the Corner of the Oval, by Beck Dorey-Stein, $4.99. This dishy political memoir describes the Obama White House from an unusual perspective, that of one of his twenty-something stenographers. Dorey-Stein came to the job with no political experience and got thrown into the deep end. The New York Times called this “Bridget Jones goes to the White House” — how can you pass that up?
Inside Out and Back Again, by Thanhha Lai, $1.99. From our big immigration stories reading list (winter 2017): “When Hà’s family flees Vietnam to escape the war there, she finds it difficult to adjust to a very different kind of life in Alabama. Told in spare, simple verse, this book packs an emotional wallop and allows kids to slip inside the first person experience of being a stranger in a strange land.”
This Book is Grey, by Lindsay Ward, $1.99. The other colors aren’t always friendly to Grey, and he just wants to fit in. He decides to make his own book of awesome things that are grey (hippos, clouds, kittens, etc.), but the other colors are not so enthusiastic. This is a story about fitting in, being true to yourself, and a little bit of color theory.
Kindle Deals for February 13, 2020
Today’s deals are sure to delight!
Today's Best Book Deals for Your Homeschool
(Prices are correct as of the time of writing, but y'all know sales move fast — check before you click the buy button! These are Amazon links — read more about how we use affiliate links to help support some of the costs of the HSL blog here.)
Never miss a deal! Sign up for an email notification every time we post here.
I Wanna Be Where You Are, by Kristina Forest, $2.99. This YA rom-com/road trip novel sounds like a blast. Here’s the publisher’s description: “When Chloe Pierce’s mom forbids her to apply for a spot at the dance conservatory of her dreams, she devises a secret plan to drive two hundred miles to the nearest audition. But Chloe hits her first speed bump when her annoying neighbor Eli insists upon hitching a ride, threatening to tell Chloe’s mom if she leaves him and his smelly dog, Geezer, behind. So now Chloe’s chasing her ballet dreams down the east coast—two unwanted (but kinda cute) passengers in her car, butterflies in her stomach, and a really dope playlist on repeat.”
The Oregon Trail: The Race to Chimney Rock, by Jesse Wiley, $2.99. It’s time to introduce the magical 80s computer game The Oregon Trail to a younger generation, this time as a choose-you-own-adventure novel series! Upper elementary kids will love these historical adventures. And don’t worry, just like in the computer games, most of the choices still end in death.
Get Up, Stand Up, by Bob Marley and Cedella Marley, $1.99. This beautiful picture book combines the words of Bob Marley’s classic song with lovely illustrations that tell a story of bullying and friendship. Though intended for the very young, this book would be a great book to get older kids talking about the power of music or the ways pictures can tell a story.
STILL ON SALE
Unseen: Unpublished Black History from The New York Times Photo Archives, by Dana Canedy, Damien Cave, Rachel L. Swarns, and Darcy Eveleigh, $3.99. News is being made all around us, but not every story makes it into the printed record of history. New York Times photo editor Darcy Eveleigh discovered dozens of unprinted photos in the newspaper’s archives. With the help of her colleagues, Eveleigh researched the context of these photos and brought new stories to light. You’ll find unseen sides of familiar faces and entirely new tales from history.
Aerial Geology, by Mary Caperton Morton, $2.99. Have you ever looked out the windows of an airplane and marveled at the shapes of the land below? This book visits remarkable places in North America from above to show how geologic concepts are written in the surface of the earth. Written for adults but easily accessible to interested children, this book is a great jumping off point for a deeper study of earth science. Definitely view the pictures on a full-color screen, if possible, or consider splurging on the gorgeous hardcover.
Betty Before X, by Ilyasah Shabazz and Renee Watson, $2.99. This book, which was featured in several Best Children’s Books of 2018 lists, tells a story of the Civil Rights movement through the eyes of Malcolm X’s daughter, Betty. The 11-year-old’s unique perspective will help middle-grade readers engage with the historical details in a deeper way.
Field Notes on Love, by Jennifer E. Smith, $1.99. Celebrate Valentine’s Day with another sweet YA romance. Hugo is planning a train trip across the country with his girlfriend before he starts college. When they break up, he quickly needs to find another Margaret Campbell to take her nonrefundable ticket. The two complete strangers get to know each other on the long journey, but will their lives outside the train catch up with them?
The Periodic Table: A Field Guide to the Elements, by Paul Parsons and Gail Dixon, $3.99. This vibrant and careful guide to all the elements in the periodic table will intrigue budding chemists and anyone who wants to understand how things work. Lots of vivid illustrations of the elements in their various forms round out the dense but accessible text.
And Still I Rise: Black America Since MLK, by Henry L. Gates and Kevin M. Burke, $2.99. Harvard Professor Henry Louis Gates considers the highs and lows of Black History in the last 50 years. This book is a companion to a compelling PBS series and is full of engaging pictures.
Meet Cute, by various authors, $2.99. A “meet cute” is the first time a couple meets in a romance novel. This story anthology is a collection of meet cute stories from some of the biggest names in YA fiction. You’ll love the broad diversity of characters’ racial, gender, and sexual identies. Everyone deserves a good love story.
The Cooking Gene: A Journey Through African American Culinary History in the Old South, by Michael W. Twitty, $1.99. Whether you love Southern cooking or know nothing about it, you will definitely be interested what Twitty has to say. As he tells the story of how traditional cuisine developed, he takes on slavery, racism, class, and religion.
A Weird and Wild Beauty: The Story of Yellowstone, The World’s First National Park, by Erin Peabody, $1.99. Yellowstone is a place like few others in the world, and this book traces its fascinating history. This book, aimed at teens to adults, covers the park’s discovery, the protection act that created the first national park, and the science and nature that make Yellowstone so unique. Copious historical and current photos enhance the reading experience.
Lintang and the Pirate Queen, by Tamara Moss, $2.99. This middle-grade fantasy novel is perhaps better known in Australia, where it was initially published. I love all the strong female characters. Here’s how the publisher describes it: “Lintang is an island girl who longs for daring and danger. When she meets the feared pirate Captain Shafira and her all-female crew, Lintang is determined to join them. Secrets within secrets, life-or-death battles with spectacular monsters, and hair’s breadth escapes keep readers turning the pages of a story populated by women of color who are fighters, adventurers, and leaders.”
How to Read Poetry Like a Professor: A Quippy and Sonorous Guide to Verse, by Thomas C. Foster, $1.99. Poetry doesn’t have to be intimidating. This guide to understanding the meanings of poems will help teens and adults find the beauty in verse. Along the way, Foster introduces and explains all the language scholars use to talk about poetry — meter, figurative language, rhyme structure, and more.
Josephine: The Dazzling Life of Josephine Baker, by Patricia Hruby Powell and Christian Robinson, $1.99. This lovely children’s biography of Josephine Baker covers both her performance career and her civil rights work. It is written in a jazz-style poetry that calls to mind the 1920s. The simple, vivid illustrations won the Coretta Scott King Honor distinction.
Science in Seconds: 200 Key Concepts Explained in an Instant, by Hazel Muir, $1.99. This illustrated guide to scientific concepts explains everything from thermodynamics to the Doppler effect. It’s an excellent resource for when you need a refresher or a way to answer a homework question.
In Progress: Seeing Inside a Lettering Artist’s Sketchbook and Process, from Pencil to Vector, by Jessica Hische, $2.99. I love to learn about how things are made, and this peek into a lettering artist’s work process is really fascinating to me. This is a great introduction to the terminology, tools, and business of lettering. You’ll enjoy this look behind the scenes even if you, like me, have no talent for fancy handwriting.
Super Graphic: A Visual Guide to the Comic Book Universe, by Tim Leong, $1.99. If you love comic books, this is the book for you. If you know very little about superheroes but enjoy infographics, this is also the book for you. Tim Leong breaks down the world of superheroes and supervillians by color, geographic area, height, weight, and more.
Binti, by Nnedi Okorafor, $1.99. This sci-fi novella introduces an exciting new universe. Binti, a Himba tribeswoman, is the first of her people to gain admission to a galactic university. Against her family’s wishes, she leaves her desert home to pursue higher education. A disaster on her transport ship has profound impacts on Binti’s future. This book is beautifully written and a whirlwind of activity. It’s short, but it packs a punch.
How to Draw Fantasy Art and RPG Maps: Step by Step Cartography for Gamers and Fans, by Jared Blando, $4.99. I’m a big fan of meeting kids where they are to sneak in some meaningful learning. In creating a fantasy world and building an accurate map, budding cartographers will have a crash course in geography. The book offers good starting points for discussion of geographic features, cities and transportation, political history, and heraldry. The excellent and varied illustrations break the complex process into manageable steps.
Enlightenment Now, by Steven Pinker, $1.99. This is a great deal on a massive, informative book, so snap it up! It is very easy to get stuck in thinking about all of the problems and disasters facing the modern world. Pinker uses meticulous sociological research to show that human conditions have been steadily improving since the Enlightenment. Far from resting on laurels, Pinker encourages readers to continue embracing reason and science to defend the world against the ever-encroaching tribalism, demagoguery, and fatalism that also seem to be a persistent part of human nature.
Paperback Crush, by Gabrielle Moss, $2.99. Calling all women in their thirties and forties! Did you go through a horse book phase in middle school? Did you morbidly rubberneck the doomed romances of terminally ill teens? This book is a love letter to the mass market teen paperbacks of the 1980s and 1990s. Revisit the extremely specific genres of books you loved but have probably forgotten.
A Crazy-Much Love, by Joy Jordan-Lake, $1.99. This sweet picture book tells the story of an international adoption and many milestones that follow in a young girl’s family.
George, by Alex Gino, $3.99. George may look like a boy, but she knows she is really a girl. Determined to win the role of Charlotte in her school play of Charlotte’s Web, she sets out to make sure everyone else can see her the way she sees herself. Books that address the experiences of transgender tweens are rare, and this one does it well, so snag it for your middle-grade reader.
Challenge Accepted! 253 Steps to Becoming an Anti-It Girl, by Celeste Barber, $1.99. You may have seen Australian actor and comedian Celeste Barber’s hilarious Instagram photos attempting to copy ridiculous celebrity poses. If you’re interested in her take on childbirth, what it’s like to share so much of her life on the internet, body image, and more, this book is a breezy, laugh-out-loud read. Note: If you are squeamish about crude language, this may not be the book for you.
The Blue Sword, by Robin McKinley, $1.99. From our Adventure and Suspense reading list: Orphaned girl Harry Crewe is living a perfectly ordinary life — until the day she is kidnapped by the king of the Hillfolk to fulfill a destiny she never imagined. Is Harry really a true warrior who can wield the legendary blue sword? And even if she is, will she believe in herself enough to seize her fate?
Waiting, by Kevin Henkes, $1.99. This sweet picture book captures the emotional essence of childhood. Five toys sit by a window, each waiting for something different to happen. Simple, but resonant text and warm illustrations make this a delightful read.
The Stuff of Thought: Language as a Window into Human Nature, by Steven Pinker, $4.99. This book is fascinating and long. I bought it when I couldn’t finish my library copy in time (and I wanted to be able to refer to it again). Word nerds and anthropology fans will love this genre mashup. Find out what the words people use for swearing, humor, and metaphor say about us as human beings.
Year of Yes: How to Dance it Out, Stand in the Sun, and Be Your Own Person, by Shonda Rimes, $2.99. Shonda Rimes is the mega-successful producer of Grey’s Anatomy, Scandal, and other popular shows. She also is extremely introverted and struggles with anxiety. This is the memoir of the year she spent saying “YES!” to all the things that scared her.
From the Corner of the Oval, by Beck Dorey-Stein, $4.99. This dishy political memoir describes the Obama White House from an unusual perspective, that of one of his twenty-something stenographers. Dorey-Stein came to the job with no political experience and got thrown into the deep end. The New York Times called this “Bridget Jones goes to the White House” — how can you pass that up?
Inside Out and Back Again, by Thanhha Lai, $1.99. From our big immigration stories reading list (winter 2017): “When Hà’s family flees Vietnam to escape the war there, she finds it difficult to adjust to a very different kind of life in Alabama. Told in spare, simple verse, this book packs an emotional wallop and allows kids to slip inside the first person experience of being a stranger in a strange land.”
This Book is Grey, by Lindsay Ward, $1.99. The other colors aren’t always friendly to Grey, and he just wants to fit in. He decides to make his own book of awesome things that are grey (hippos, clouds, kittens, etc.), but the other colors are not so enthusiastic. This is a story about fitting in, being true to yourself, and a little bit of color theory.
Kindle Deals for February 12, 2020
Today’s deals are all about amazing visuals.
Today's Best Book Deals for Your Homeschool
(Prices are correct as of the time of writing, but y'all know sales move fast — check before you click the buy button! These are Amazon links — read more about how we use affiliate links to help support some of the costs of the HSL blog here.)
Never miss a deal! Sign up for an email notification every time we post here.
Unseen: Unpublished Black History from The New York Times Photo Archives, by Dana Canedy, Damien Cave, Rachel L. Swarns, and Darcy Eveleigh, $3.99. News is being made all around us, but not every story makes it into the printed record of history. New York Times photo editor Darcy Eveleigh discovered dozens of unprinted photos in the newspaper’s archives. With the help of her colleagues, Eveleigh researched the context of these photos and brought new stories to light. You’ll find unseen sides of familiar faces and entirely new tales from history.
Picture This: How Pictures Work, by Molly Bang, $2.48. This book is just the coolest. Molly Bang, an award-winning illustrator, carefully explains why pictures have an emotional resonance. In the very first chapter, Bang explains how to represent Little Red Riding Hood as a triangle, how to make simple shapes seem vulnerable or powerful, and so much more. I was instantly hooked. This is technically written for an adult audience but is sure to delight tweens/teens who are curious about art.
Aerial Geology, by Mary Caperton Morton, $2.99. Have you ever looked out the windows of an airplane and marveled at the shapes of the land below? This book visits remarkable places in North America from above to show how geologic concepts are written in the surface of the earth. Written for adults but easily accessible to interested children, this book is a great jumping off point for a deeper study of earth science. Definitely view the pictures on a full-color screen, if possible, or consider splurging on the gorgeous hardcover.
STILL ON SALE
Betty Before X, by Ilyasah Shabazz and Renee Watson, $2.99. This book, which was featured in several Best Children’s Books of 2018 lists, tells a story of the Civil Rights movement through the eyes of Malcolm X’s daughter, Betty. The 11-year-old’s unique perspective will help middle-grade readers engage with the historical details in a deeper way.
Field Notes on Love, by Jennifer E. Smith, $1.99. Celebrate Valentine’s Day with another sweet YA romance. Hugo is planning a train trip across the country with his girlfriend before he starts college. When they break up, he quickly needs to find another Margaret Campbell to take her nonrefundable ticket. The two complete strangers get to know each other on the long journey, but will their lives outside the train catch up with them?
The Periodic Table: A Field Guide to the Elements, by Paul Parsons and Gail Dixon, $3.99. This vibrant and careful guide to all the elements in the periodic table will intrigue budding chemists and anyone who wants to understand how things work. Lots of vivid illustrations of the elements in their various forms round out the dense but accessible text.
And Still I Rise: Black America Since MLK, by Henry L. Gates and Kevin M. Burke, $2.99. Harvard Professor Henry Louis Gates considers the highs and lows of Black History in the last 50 years. This book is a companion to a compelling PBS series and is full of engaging pictures.
Meet Cute, by various authors, $2.99. A “meet cute” is the first time a couple meets in a romance novel. This story anthology is a collection of meet cute stories from some of the biggest names in YA fiction. You’ll love the broad diversity of characters’ racial, gender, and sexual identies. Everyone deserves a good love story.
The Cooking Gene: A Journey Through African American Culinary History in the Old South, by Michael W. Twitty, $1.99. Whether you love Southern cooking or know nothing about it, you will definitely be interested what Twitty has to say. As he tells the story of how traditional cuisine developed, he takes on slavery, racism, class, and religion.
A Weird and Wild Beauty: The Story of Yellowstone, The World’s First National Park, by Erin Peabody, $1.99. Yellowstone is a place like few others in the world, and this book traces its fascinating history. This book, aimed at teens to adults, covers the park’s discovery, the protection act that created the first national park, and the science and nature that make Yellowstone so unique. Copious historical and current photos enhance the reading experience.
Lintang and the Pirate Queen, by Tamara Moss, $2.99. This middle-grade fantasy novel is perhaps better known in Australia, where it was initially published. I love all the strong female characters. Here’s how the publisher describes it: “Lintang is an island girl who longs for daring and danger. When she meets the feared pirate Captain Shafira and her all-female crew, Lintang is determined to join them. Secrets within secrets, life-or-death battles with spectacular monsters, and hair’s breadth escapes keep readers turning the pages of a story populated by women of color who are fighters, adventurers, and leaders.”
How to Read Poetry Like a Professor: A Quippy and Sonorous Guide to Verse, by Thomas C. Foster, $1.99. Poetry doesn’t have to be intimidating. This guide to understanding the meanings of poems will help teens and adults find the beauty in verse. Along the way, Foster introduces and explains all the language scholars use to talk about poetry — meter, figurative language, rhyme structure, and more.
Josephine: The Dazzling Life of Josephine Baker, by Patricia Hruby Powell and Christian Robinson, $1.99. This lovely children’s biography of Josephine Baker covers both her performance career and her civil rights work. It is written in a jazz-style poetry that calls to mind the 1920s. The simple, vivid illustrations won the Coretta Scott King Honor distinction.
Science in Seconds: 200 Key Concepts Explained in an Instant, by Hazel Muir, $1.99. This illustrated guide to scientific concepts explains everything from thermodynamics to the Doppler effect. It’s an excellent resource for when you need a refresher or a way to answer a homework question.
In Progress: Seeing Inside a Lettering Artist’s Sketchbook and Process, from Pencil to Vector, by Jessica Hische, $2.99. I love to learn about how things are made, and this peek into a lettering artist’s work process is really fascinating to me. This is a great introduction to the terminology, tools, and business of lettering. You’ll enjoy this look behind the scenes even if you, like me, have no talent for fancy handwriting.
Super Graphic: A Visual Guide to the Comic Book Universe, by Tim Leong, $1.99. If you love comic books, this is the book for you. If you know very little about superheroes but enjoy infographics, this is also the book for you. Tim Leong breaks down the world of superheroes and supervillians by color, geographic area, height, weight, and more.
Binti, by Nnedi Okorafor, $1.99. This sci-fi novella introduces an exciting new universe. Binti, a Himba tribeswoman, is the first of her people to gain admission to a galactic university. Against her family’s wishes, she leaves her desert home to pursue higher education. A disaster on her transport ship has profound impacts on Binti’s future. This book is beautifully written and a whirlwind of activity. It’s short, but it packs a punch.
How to Draw Fantasy Art and RPG Maps: Step by Step Cartography for Gamers and Fans, by Jared Blando, $4.99. I’m a big fan of meeting kids where they are to sneak in some meaningful learning. In creating a fantasy world and building an accurate map, budding cartographers will have a crash course in geography. The book offers good starting points for discussion of geographic features, cities and transportation, political history, and heraldry. The excellent and varied illustrations break the complex process into manageable steps.
Enlightenment Now, by Steven Pinker, $1.99. This is a great deal on a massive, informative book, so snap it up! It is very easy to get stuck in thinking about all of the problems and disasters facing the modern world. Pinker uses meticulous sociological research to show that human conditions have been steadily improving since the Enlightenment. Far from resting on laurels, Pinker encourages readers to continue embracing reason and science to defend the world against the ever-encroaching tribalism, demagoguery, and fatalism that also seem to be a persistent part of human nature.
Paperback Crush, by Gabrielle Moss, $2.99. Calling all women in their thirties and forties! Did you go through a horse book phase in middle school? Did you morbidly rubberneck the doomed romances of terminally ill teens? This book is a love letter to the mass market teen paperbacks of the 1980s and 1990s. Revisit the extremely specific genres of books you loved but have probably forgotten.
A Crazy-Much Love, by Joy Jordan-Lake, $1.99. This sweet picture book tells the story of an international adoption and many milestones that follow in a young girl’s family.
George, by Alex Gino, $3.99. George may look like a boy, but she knows she is really a girl. Determined to win the role of Charlotte in her school play of Charlotte’s Web, she sets out to make sure everyone else can see her the way she sees herself. Books that address the experiences of transgender tweens are rare, and this one does it well, so snag it for your middle-grade reader.
Challenge Accepted! 253 Steps to Becoming an Anti-It Girl, by Celeste Barber, $1.99. You may have seen Australian actor and comedian Celeste Barber’s hilarious Instagram photos attempting to copy ridiculous celebrity poses. If you’re interested in her take on childbirth, what it’s like to share so much of her life on the internet, body image, and more, this book is a breezy, laugh-out-loud read. Note: If you are squeamish about crude language, this may not be the book for you.
The Blue Sword, by Robin McKinley, $1.99. From our Adventure and Suspense reading list: Orphaned girl Harry Crewe is living a perfectly ordinary life — until the day she is kidnapped by the king of the Hillfolk to fulfill a destiny she never imagined. Is Harry really a true warrior who can wield the legendary blue sword? And even if she is, will she believe in herself enough to seize her fate?
Waiting, by Kevin Henkes, $1.99. This sweet picture book captures the emotional essence of childhood. Five toys sit by a window, each waiting for something different to happen. Simple, but resonant text and warm illustrations make this a delightful read.
The Stuff of Thought: Language as a Window into Human Nature, by Steven Pinker, $4.99. This book is fascinating and long. I bought it when I couldn’t finish my library copy in time (and I wanted to be able to refer to it again). Word nerds and anthropology fans will love this genre mashup. Find out what the words people use for swearing, humor, and metaphor say about us as human beings.
Year of Yes: How to Dance it Out, Stand in the Sun, and Be Your Own Person, by Shonda Rimes, $2.99. Shonda Rimes is the mega-successful producer of Grey’s Anatomy, Scandal, and other popular shows. She also is extremely introverted and struggles with anxiety. This is the memoir of the year she spent saying “YES!” to all the things that scared her.
From the Corner of the Oval, by Beck Dorey-Stein, $4.99. This dishy political memoir describes the Obama White House from an unusual perspective, that of one of his twenty-something stenographers. Dorey-Stein came to the job with no political experience and got thrown into the deep end. The New York Times called this “Bridget Jones goes to the White House” — how can you pass that up?
Inside Out and Back Again, by Thanhha Lai, $1.99. From our big immigration stories reading list (winter 2017): “When Hà’s family flees Vietnam to escape the war there, she finds it difficult to adjust to a very different kind of life in Alabama. Told in spare, simple verse, this book packs an emotional wallop and allows kids to slip inside the first person experience of being a stranger in a strange land.”
This Book is Grey, by Lindsay Ward, $1.99. The other colors aren’t always friendly to Grey, and he just wants to fit in. He decides to make his own book of awesome things that are grey (hippos, clouds, kittens, etc.), but the other colors are not so enthusiastic. This is a story about fitting in, being true to yourself, and a little bit of color theory.
Kindle Deals for February 11, 2020
Today’s deals feature a child’s perspective on Detroit’s Civil Rights movement, a guide to the Periodic Table, and a sweet YA romance.
Today's Best Book Deals for Your Homeschool
(Prices are correct as of the time of writing, but y'all know sales move fast — check before you click the buy button! These are Amazon links — read more about how we use affiliate links to help support some of the costs of the HSL blog here.)
Never miss a deal! Sign up for an email notification every time we post here.
Betty Before X, by Ilyasah Shabazz and Renee Watson, $2.99. This book, which was featured in several Best Children’s Books of 2018 lists, tells a story of the Civil Rights movement through the eyes of Malcolm X’s daughter, Betty. The 11-year-old’s unique perspective will help middle-grade readers engage with the historical details in a deeper way.
Field Notes on Love, by Jennifer E. Smith, $1.99. Celebrate Valentine’s Day with another sweet YA romance. Hugo is planning a train trip across the country with his girlfriend before he starts college. When they break up, he quickly needs to find another Margaret Campbell to take her nonrefundable ticket. The two complete strangers get to know each other on the long journey, but will their lives outside the train catch up with them?
The Periodic Table: A Field Guide to the Elements, by Paul Parsons and Gail Dixon, $3.99. This vibrant and careful guide to all the elements in the periodic table will intrigue budding chemists and anyone who wants to understand how things work. Lots of vivid illustrations of the elements in their various forms round out the dense but accessible text.
STILL ON SALE
And Still I Rise: Black America Since MLK, by Henry L. Gates and Kevin M. Burke, $2.99. Harvard Professor Henry Louis Gates considers the highs and lows of Black History in the last 50 years. This book is a companion to a compelling PBS series and is full of engaging pictures.
Meet Cute, by various authors, $2.99. A “meet cute” is the first time a couple meets in a romance novel. This story anthology is a collection of meet cute stories from some of the biggest names in YA fiction. You’ll love the broad diversity of characters’ racial, gender, and sexual identies. Everyone deserves a good love story.
The Cooking Gene: A Journey Through African American Culinary History in the Old South, by Michael W. Twitty, $1.99. Whether you love Southern cooking or know nothing about it, you will definitely be interested what Twitty has to say. As he tells the story of how traditional cuisine developed, he takes on slavery, racism, class, and religion.
A Weird and Wild Beauty: The Story of Yellowstone, The World’s First National Park, by Erin Peabody, $1.99. Yellowstone is a place like few others in the world, and this book traces its fascinating history. This book, aimed at teens to adults, covers the park’s discovery, the protection act that created the first national park, and the science and nature that make Yellowstone so unique. Copious historical and current photos enhance the reading experience.
Lintang and the Pirate Queen, by Tamara Moss, $2.99. This middle-grade fantasy novel is perhaps better known in Australia, where it was initially published. I love all the strong female characters. Here’s how the publisher describes it: “Lintang is an island girl who longs for daring and danger. When she meets the feared pirate Captain Shafira and her all-female crew, Lintang is determined to join them. Secrets within secrets, life-or-death battles with spectacular monsters, and hair’s breadth escapes keep readers turning the pages of a story populated by women of color who are fighters, adventurers, and leaders.”
How to Read Poetry Like a Professor: A Quippy and Sonorous Guide to Verse, by Thomas C. Foster, $1.99. Poetry doesn’t have to be intimidating. This guide to understanding the meanings of poems will help teens and adults find the beauty in verse. Along the way, Foster introduces and explains all the language scholars use to talk about poetry — meter, figurative language, rhyme structure, and more.
Josephine: The Dazzling Life of Josephine Baker, by Patricia Hruby Powell and Christian Robinson, $1.99. This lovely children’s biography of Josephine Baker covers both her performance career and her civil rights work. It is written in a jazz-style poetry that calls to mind the 1920s. The simple, vivid illustrations won the Coretta Scott King Honor distinction.
Science in Seconds: 200 Key Concepts Explained in an Instant, by Hazel Muir, $1.99. This illustrated guide to scientific concepts explains everything from thermodynamics to the Doppler effect. It’s an excellent resource for when you need a refresher or a way to answer a homework question.
In Progress: Seeing Inside a Lettering Artist’s Sketchbook and Process, from Pencil to Vector, by Jessica Hische, $2.99. I love to learn about how things are made, and this peek into a lettering artist’s work process is really fascinating to me. This is a great introduction to the terminology, tools, and business of lettering. You’ll enjoy this look behind the scenes even if you, like me, have no talent for fancy handwriting.
Super Graphic: A Visual Guide to the Comic Book Universe, by Tim Leong, $1.99. If you love comic books, this is the book for you. If you know very little about superheroes but enjoy infographics, this is also the book for you. Tim Leong breaks down the world of superheroes and supervillians by color, geographic area, height, weight, and more.
Binti, by Nnedi Okorafor, $1.99. This sci-fi novella introduces an exciting new universe. Binti, a Himba tribeswoman, is the first of her people to gain admission to a galactic university. Against her family’s wishes, she leaves her desert home to pursue higher education. A disaster on her transport ship has profound impacts on Binti’s future. This book is beautifully written and a whirlwind of activity. It’s short, but it packs a punch.
How to Draw Fantasy Art and RPG Maps: Step by Step Cartography for Gamers and Fans, by Jared Blando, $4.99. I’m a big fan of meeting kids where they are to sneak in some meaningful learning. In creating a fantasy world and building an accurate map, budding cartographers will have a crash course in geography. The book offers good starting points for discussion of geographic features, cities and transportation, political history, and heraldry. The excellent and varied illustrations break the complex process into manageable steps.
Enlightenment Now, by Steven Pinker, $1.99. This is a great deal on a massive, informative book, so snap it up! It is very easy to get stuck in thinking about all of the problems and disasters facing the modern world. Pinker uses meticulous sociological research to show that human conditions have been steadily improving since the Enlightenment. Far from resting on laurels, Pinker encourages readers to continue embracing reason and science to defend the world against the ever-encroaching tribalism, demagoguery, and fatalism that also seem to be a persistent part of human nature.
Paperback Crush, by Gabrielle Moss, $2.99. Calling all women in their thirties and forties! Did you go through a horse book phase in middle school? Did you morbidly rubberneck the doomed romances of terminally ill teens? This book is a love letter to the mass market teen paperbacks of the 1980s and 1990s. Revisit the extremely specific genres of books you loved but have probably forgotten.
A Crazy-Much Love, by Joy Jordan-Lake, $1.99. This sweet picture book tells the story of an international adoption and many milestones that follow in a young girl’s family.
George, by Alex Gino, $3.99. George may look like a boy, but she knows she is really a girl. Determined to win the role of Charlotte in her school play of Charlotte’s Web, she sets out to make sure everyone else can see her the way she sees herself. Books that address the experiences of transgender tweens are rare, and this one does it well, so snag it for your middle-grade reader.
Challenge Accepted! 253 Steps to Becoming an Anti-It Girl, by Celeste Barber, $1.99. You may have seen Australian actor and comedian Celeste Barber’s hilarious Instagram photos attempting to copy ridiculous celebrity poses. If you’re interested in her take on childbirth, what it’s like to share so much of her life on the internet, body image, and more, this book is a breezy, laugh-out-loud read. Note: If you are squeamish about crude language, this may not be the book for you.
The Blue Sword, by Robin McKinley, $1.99. From our Adventure and Suspense reading list: Orphaned girl Harry Crewe is living a perfectly ordinary life — until the day she is kidnapped by the king of the Hillfolk to fulfill a destiny she never imagined. Is Harry really a true warrior who can wield the legendary blue sword? And even if she is, will she believe in herself enough to seize her fate?
Waiting, by Kevin Henkes, $1.99. This sweet picture book captures the emotional essence of childhood. Five toys sit by a window, each waiting for something different to happen. Simple, but resonant text and warm illustrations make this a delightful read.
The Stuff of Thought: Language as a Window into Human Nature, by Steven Pinker, $4.99. This book is fascinating and long. I bought it when I couldn’t finish my library copy in time (and I wanted to be able to refer to it again). Word nerds and anthropology fans will love this genre mashup. Find out what the words people use for swearing, humor, and metaphor say about us as human beings.
Year of Yes: How to Dance it Out, Stand in the Sun, and Be Your Own Person, by Shonda Rimes, $2.99. Shonda Rimes is the mega-successful producer of Grey’s Anatomy, Scandal, and other popular shows. She also is extremely introverted and struggles with anxiety. This is the memoir of the year she spent saying “YES!” to all the things that scared her.
From the Corner of the Oval, by Beck Dorey-Stein, $4.99. This dishy political memoir describes the Obama White House from an unusual perspective, that of one of his twenty-something stenographers. Dorey-Stein came to the job with no political experience and got thrown into the deep end. The New York Times called this “Bridget Jones goes to the White House” — how can you pass that up?
Inside Out and Back Again, by Thanhha Lai, $1.99. From our big immigration stories reading list (winter 2017): “When Hà’s family flees Vietnam to escape the war there, she finds it difficult to adjust to a very different kind of life in Alabama. Told in spare, simple verse, this book packs an emotional wallop and allows kids to slip inside the first person experience of being a stranger in a strange land.”
This Book is Grey, by Lindsay Ward, $1.99. The other colors aren’t always friendly to Grey, and he just wants to fit in. He decides to make his own book of awesome things that are grey (hippos, clouds, kittens, etc.), but the other colors are not so enthusiastic. This is a story about fitting in, being true to yourself, and a little bit of color theory.
Kindle Deals for February 10, 2020
Today’s deals feature black history, birds, and budding romances.
Today's Best Book Deals for Your Homeschool
(Prices are correct as of the time of writing, but y'all know sales move fast — check before you click the buy button! These are Amazon links — read more about how we use affiliate links to help support some of the costs of the HSL blog here.)
Never miss a deal! Sign up for an email notification every time we post here.
And Still I Rise: Black America Since MLK, by Henry L. Gates and Kevin M. Burke, $2.99. Harvard Professor Henry Louis Gates considers the highs and lows of Black History in the last 50 years. This book is a companion to a compelling PBS series and is full of engaging pictures.
100 Birds and How They Got Their Names, by Diana Wells, $1.99. It’s amazing how much you can learn from a name! This lovely book about birds explains the discovery, naming, and folklore of birds around the world. Did you know that Birds of Paradise are so named because their namers thought they didn’t have feet and just hovered?
Meet Cute, by various authors, $2.99. A “meet cute” is the first time a couple meets in a romance novel. This story anthology is a collection of meet cute stories from some of the biggest names in YA fiction. You’ll love the broad diversity of characters’ racial, gender, and sexual identies. Everyone deserves a good love story.
STILL ON SALE
The Cooking Gene: A Journey Through African American Culinary History in the Old South, by Michael W. Twitty, $1.99. Whether you love Southern cooking or know nothing about it, you will definitely be interested what Twitty has to say. As he tells the story of how traditional cuisine developed, he takes on slavery, racism, class, and religion.
A Weird and Wild Beauty: The Story of Yellowstone, The World’s First National Park, by Erin Peabody, $1.99. Yellowstone is a place like few others in the world, and this book traces its fascinating history. This book, aimed at teens to adults, covers the park’s discovery, the protection act that created the first national park, and the science and nature that make Yellowstone so unique. Copious historical and current photos enhance the reading experience.
Lintang and the Pirate Queen, by Tamara Moss, $2.99. This middle-grade fantasy novel is perhaps better known in Australia, where it was initially published. I love all the strong female characters. Here’s how the publisher describes it: “Lintang is an island girl who longs for daring and danger. When she meets the feared pirate Captain Shafira and her all-female crew, Lintang is determined to join them. Secrets within secrets, life-or-death battles with spectacular monsters, and hair’s breadth escapes keep readers turning the pages of a story populated by women of color who are fighters, adventurers, and leaders.”
How to Read Poetry Like a Professor: A Quippy and Sonorous Guide to Verse, by Thomas C. Foster, $1.99. Poetry doesn’t have to be intimidating. This guide to understanding the meanings of poems will help teens and adults find the beauty in verse. Along the way, Foster introduces and explains all the language scholars use to talk about poetry — meter, figurative language, rhyme structure, and more.
The Name of the Rose, by Umberto Eco, $2.99. This is one of my favorite novels. The movie version of the book, starring Sean Connery, is in our Medieval History movie list, but the book is even better. This is an incredibly faithful and richly detailed tale of monastic life that is also full of page-turning intrigue and mystery.
Josephine: The Dazzling Life of Josephine Baker, by Patricia Hruby Powell and Christian Robinson, $1.99. This lovely children’s biography of Josephine Baker covers both her performance career and her civil rights work. It is written in a jazz-style poetry that calls to mind the 1920s. The simple, vivid illustrations won the Coretta Scott King Honor distinction.
Science in Seconds: 200 Key Concepts Explained in an Instant, by Hazel Muir, $1.99. This illustrated guide to scientific concepts explains everything from thermodynamics to the Doppler effect. It’s an excellent resource for when you need a refresher or a way to answer a homework question.
Wonders of the Solar System, by Brian Cox and Andrew Cohen, $2.99. This book companion to the impressive BBC series is full of amazing images. Brian Cox is very much like Carl Sagan — his science is rigorous but filled with lyricism and wonder.
In Progress: Seeing Inside a Lettering Artist’s Sketchbook and Process, from Pencil to Vector, by Jessica Hische, $2.99. I love to learn about how things are made, and this peek into a lettering artist’s work process is really fascinating to me. This is a great introduction to the terminology, tools, and business of lettering. You’ll enjoy this look behind the scenes even if you, like me, have no talent for fancy handwriting.
Super Graphic: A Visual Guide to the Comic Book Universe, by Tim Leong, $1.99. If you love comic books, this is the book for you. If you know very little about superheroes but enjoy infographics, this is also the book for you. Tim Leong breaks down the world of superheroes and supervillians by color, geographic area, height, weight, and more.
Binti, by Nnedi Okorafor, $1.99. This sci-fi novella introduces an exciting new universe. Binti, a Himba tribeswoman, is the first of her people to gain admission to a galactic university. Against her family’s wishes, she leaves her desert home to pursue higher education. A disaster on her transport ship has profound impacts on Binti’s future. This book is beautifully written and a whirlwind of activity. It’s short, but it packs a punch.
We Have Always Lived in the Castle, by Shirley Jackson, $1.99. From our Spooky (and Not-So-Spooky) Book guide: “After the rest of their family dies suspiciously of arsenic poisoning, Merricat and Constance live an isolated life in their family's grand old house. Jackson manages her usual balance of macabre humor and growing unease in this story that slowly grows more and more un-put-down-able as you read.”
How to Draw Fantasy Art and RPG Maps: Step by Step Cartography for Gamers and Fans, by Jared Blando, $4.99. I’m a big fan of meeting kids where they are to sneak in some meaningful learning. In creating a fantasy world and building an accurate map, budding cartographers will have a crash course in geography. The book offers good starting points for discussion of geographic features, cities and transportation, political history, and heraldry. The excellent and varied illustrations break the complex process into manageable steps.
Enlightenment Now, by Steven Pinker, $1.99. This is a great deal on a massive, informative book, so snap it up! It is very easy to get stuck in thinking about all of the problems and disasters facing the modern world. Pinker uses meticulous sociological research to show that human conditions have been steadily improving since the Enlightenment. Far from resting on laurels, Pinker encourages readers to continue embracing reason and science to defend the world against the ever-encroaching tribalism, demagoguery, and fatalism that also seem to be a persistent part of human nature.
Paperback Crush, by Gabrielle Moss, $2.99. Calling all women in their thirties and forties! Did you go through a horse book phase in middle school? Did you morbidly rubberneck the doomed romances of terminally ill teens? This book is a love letter to the mass market teen paperbacks of the 1980s and 1990s. Revisit the extremely specific genres of books you loved but have probably forgotten.
Physics of the Impossible: A Scientific Exploration into the World of Phasers, Force Fields, Teleportation, and Time Travel, by Michio Kaku, $2.99. Renowned physicist Michio Kaku takes on science fiction to determine which fictional technologies are possible and which violate our current understanding of the laws of physics. This could be a good book to get a sci-fi fan more interested in the science aspects of popular TV and movies.
A Crazy-Much Love, by Joy Jordan-Lake, $1.99. This sweet picture book tells the story of an international adoption and many milestones that follow in a young girl’s family.
George, by Alex Gino, $3.99. George may look like a boy, but she knows she is really a girl. Determined to win the role of Charlotte in her school play of Charlotte’s Web, she sets out to make sure everyone else can see her the way she sees herself. Books that address the experiences of transgender tweens are rare, and this one does it well, so snag it for your middle-grade reader.
Challenge Accepted! 253 Steps to Becoming an Anti-It Girl, by Celeste Barber, $1.99. You may have seen Australian actor and comedian Celeste Barber’s hilarious Instagram photos attempting to copy ridiculous celebrity poses. If you’re interested in her take on childbirth, what it’s like to share so much of her life on the internet, body image, and more, this book is a breezy, laugh-out-loud read. Note: If you are squeamish about crude language, this may not be the book for you.
The Blue Sword, by Robin McKinley, $1.99. From our Adventure and Suspense reading list: Orphaned girl Harry Crewe is living a perfectly ordinary life — until the day she is kidnapped by the king of the Hillfolk to fulfill a destiny she never imagined. Is Harry really a true warrior who can wield the legendary blue sword? And even if she is, will she believe in herself enough to seize her fate?
Waiting, by Kevin Henkes, $1.99. This sweet picture book captures the emotional essence of childhood. Five toys sit by a window, each waiting for something different to happen. Simple, but resonant text and warm illustrations make this a delightful read.
The Stuff of Thought: Language as a Window into Human Nature, by Steven Pinker, $4.99. This book is fascinating and long. I bought it when I couldn’t finish my library copy in time (and I wanted to be able to refer to it again). Word nerds and anthropology fans will love this genre mashup. Find out what the words people use for swearing, humor, and metaphor say about us as human beings.
Year of Yes: How to Dance it Out, Stand in the Sun, and Be Your Own Person, by Shonda Rimes, $2.99. Shonda Rimes is the mega-successful producer of Grey’s Anatomy, Scandal, and other popular shows. She also is extremely introverted and struggles with anxiety. This is the memoir of the year she spent saying “YES!” to all the things that scared her.
From the Corner of the Oval, by Beck Dorey-Stein, $4.99. This dishy political memoir describes the Obama White House from an unusual perspective, that of one of his twenty-something stenographers. Dorey-Stein came to the job with no political experience and got thrown into the deep end. The New York Times called this “Bridget Jones goes to the White House” — how can you pass that up?
Inside Out and Back Again, by Thanhha Lai, $1.99. From our big immigration stories reading list (winter 2017): “When Hà’s family flees Vietnam to escape the war there, she finds it difficult to adjust to a very different kind of life in Alabama. Told in spare, simple verse, this book packs an emotional wallop and allows kids to slip inside the first person experience of being a stranger in a strange land.”
This Book is Grey, by Lindsay Ward, $1.99. The other colors aren’t always friendly to Grey, and he just wants to fit in. He decides to make his own book of awesome things that are grey (hippos, clouds, kittens, etc.), but the other colors are not so enthusiastic. This is a story about fitting in, being true to yourself, and a little bit of color theory.