Kindle Deals for October 11, 2021
Celebrate Indigenous Peoples Day with us!
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.
Sea People: The Puzzle of Polynesia, by Christina Thompson, $1.99. The indigenous people of the Pacific Islands are separated by hundreds of miles but share many cultural and genetic links. The islands have been populated for hundreds of years, but exactly how they were settled has been the source of anthropological controversy. Thompson explores the linguistic, geographic, and navigational factors that provide evidence of an adventurous culture of exploration.
Chief Joseph and the Flight of the Nez Perce, by Kent Nerburn, $1.99. Nerburn is known for his writings about Native American communities. From the publisher: “The story has been told many times, but never before in its entirety or with such narrative richness. Drawing on four years of research, interviews, and 20,000 miles of travel, Nerburn takes us beyond the surrender to the captives' unlikely welcome in Bismarck, North Dakota, their tragic eight-year exile in Indian Territory, and their ultimate return to the Northwest. Nerburn reveals the true, complex character of Joseph, showing how the man was transformed into a myth by a public hungry for an image of the noble Indian and how Joseph exploited the myth in order to achieve his single goal of returning his people to their homeland.”
Everything You Wanted to Know About Indians But Were Afraid to Ask, by Anton Treuer, $4.68. Do you have questions about the history or current practices of Indigenous People in the Americas? I certainly did. My daughter and I have been reading through the young readers’ version of this book, and it’s full of excellent information about terminology, the real stories behind historical events, religious practices, modern governance, and more.
Marvel Indigenous Voices #1, by Various Authors, $4.99. This fun collection from Marvel features Indigenous creators and characters from the Marvel Universe. Big names in literature like Rebecca Roanhorse and Darcie Little Badger contribute stories illustrated by Native artists!
STILL ON SALE
The Devouring Gray, by Christine Lynn Herman, $2.99. Enter a new world with some serious Stranger Things vibes. The town of Four Paths lives uneasily alongside The Gray, an alternate dimension that houses a terrifying monster. When newcomer Violet accidentally releases the monster, she must band together with members of the founding families to stop it.
The Walls Around Us, by Nova Ren Suma, $1.99. This YA book is told in two voices, and only one of them is still alive. From the publisher: “The Walls Around Us is a ghostly story of suspense told in two voices--one still living and one dead. On the outside, there’s Violet, an eighteen-year-old ballerina days away from the life of her dreams when something threatens to expose the shocking truth of her achievement. On the inside, within the walls of a girls’ juvenile detention center, there’s Amber, locked up for so long she can’t imagine freedom. Tying these two worlds together is Orianna, who holds the key to unlocking all the girls’ darkest mysteries: What really happened on the night Orianna stepped between Violet and her tormentors? What really happened on two strange nights at Aurora Hills? Will Amber and Violet and Orianna ever get the justice they deserve--in this life or in another one?”
The Things She’s Seen, by Ambelin and Ezekiel Kwaymullina, $1.99. The premise of this chilling mystery is fascinating — Beth is dead, and the only person who can see her is her grief-stricken father. When Australian outback is rocked by another death and mysterious fire, Beth is in a unique position to help solve the case, and help her father come to terms with living. I’ve not come across many YA books written by Aboriginal authors; this is a great opportunity to diversify your bookshelf!
Asylum, by Madeline Roux, $1.99. Like Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children, this deliciously creepy YA novel is intersperse with found photos from actual asylums. When the normal dorms are closed for renovation, the teens at a summer program have to stay in a former home for the criminally insane. As the kids explore their new surroundings they begin to discover disturbing secrets about the past that might impact their future.
The Mystery of Black Hollow Lane, by Julia Nobel, $1.99. Amy really liked this one when she read it earlier this year. Here’s her review: Emmy’s dad is MIA, and her mom is so busy explaining how other people can be great parents that she never has time to just be Emmy’s parent. Emmy is crushed when her mom ships her off to a fancy British boarding school — until she gets pulled into a mystery involving a super-secret order that may involve her long-missing father. It’s true that I’m a sucker for a boarding school book, but this is the kind of middle grades book I like best: It assumes a smart reader who can connect the pieces, and there’s plenty of action to keep the plot moving and mostly likable, individual characters who make you care about what’s happening. I recommend this one!
Nightbooks, by J.A. White, $1.99. A movie based on this book was just released on Netflix! In a deliciously creepy take on 1001 Nights, a boy is kidnapped by a witch and must tell her a new scary story every night. Alex is making up the stories on the fly, and the book also includes a crash course in putting together an amazing tale.
Spirit Hunters, by Ellen Oh, $1.99. This middle grade mystery/horror novel packs a seriously scary punch! Sensitive readers may want to avoid this one; the descriptions of the actions of the angry spirits haunting the main character’s house are intense. Harper has moved to a new town, and there rumors that her house contains evil spirits. Could that be the reason her brother is acting strangely? Both Korean and Jamaican culture are integral parts of the story!
The House in Poplar Wood, by K.E. Ormsbee, $1.99. When I saw this book described as “Haunted Mansion meets Stranger Things,” I was totally hooked. The publisher has written a better summary than I possibly could: “For as long as the Vickery twins can remember, Lee and his mother have served Memory, while Felix and his father assist Death. This is the Agreement. But one Halloween, Gretchen Whipple smashes her way into their lives. Her bargain is simple: If the twins help her solve the murder of local girl Essie Hasting, she'll help them break the Agreement. The more the three investigate, however, the more they realize that something's gone terribly wrong in their town. Death is on the loose, and if history repeats itself, Essie's might not be the last murder in Poplar Wood. Simultaneously heartwarming and delightfully spooky, The House in Poplar Wood is a story about a boy's desire to be free, a girl's desire to make a difference, and a family's desire to be together again.”
How to Talk so Teens will Listen, by Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlish, $2.99. Their original book, How to Talk so Kids will Listen, gave me some great communication and parenting advice that I put into practice regularly at home and in the co-op I lead. I particularly like their focus on meeting kids on their emotional level. A few simple words that let a kid know you are hearing them can make a huge difference in working through tough issues. My daughter is (gasp!) moving into the tween/teen years, so it is time to check out what these two have to say about teenagers.
Bare Minimum Parenting: The Ultimate Guide to Not Quite Ruining Your Child, by James Breakwell, $4.99. This is obviously a tongue-in-cheek parenting guide, designed for laughs. That doesn’t mean it is short on the useful tidbits, though. If you are ready to laugh about the parenting journey, pick up this entertaining book.
How to Raise a Feminist Son, by Sonora Jha, $1.99. I haven’t read this one (I don’t have sons), but this description from the publisher sounds excellent. “Informed by Jha's work as a professor of journalism specializing in social justice movements and social media, as well as by conversations with psychologists, experts, other parents and boys--and through powerful stories from her own life--How to Raise a Feminist Son shows us all how to be better feminists and better teachers of the next generation of men in this electrifying tour de force. Includes chapter takeaways, and an annotated bibliography of reading and watching recommendations for adults and children.”
Dirk Bones and the Mystery of the Haunted House, by Doug Cushman, $1.99. Meet Dirk Bones, a detective and journalist who happens to be a skeleton. When a house is filled with weird noises, it is up to Dirk to find out what is going on.
Lulu Goes to Witch School, by Jane O’Connor, $1.99. The little witch in this story from Fancy Nancy creator Jane O’Connor is precious. Lulu is starting witch school, where she will learn to do magic and use her broom. She loves everything about the new school, except for one kid who seems intent to show off. It’s more of a day-in-the-life story than something with an exciting plot, but the adorable illustrations and simple language make it a good choice for young readers.
At the Old Haunted House, by Helen Ketteman, $0.99. Get ready for a fun remake of the classic song “Over in the Meadow.” This spooky twist on a counting song will be perfect for your Halloween math lessons. Count up the monsters, cats, goblins, witches and other creatures. There are lots of classic horror characters, but don’t worry — they are all having a good time and aren’t very scary.
In a Dark, Dark Room and Other Scary Stories, by Alvin Schwartz, $1.99. Some kids just LOVE to be creeped out, and it’s never too early to get a delightfully spooky book into their hands. This is a collection of scary stories for beginning readers. Turn down the lights and let your child give a haunted story hour. The vibrant and twisted illustrations add to the fun.
Three Cheers for Kid McGear! by Sherri Duskey Rinker, $1.99. I’ve read Rinker’s construction site books more times than I can count. In the latest addition, Kid McGear is the newest team member looking to prove herself. Kid is smaller than the other machines, but that doesn’t mean she can’t save the day when needed!
Stella Brings the Family, by Miriam B. Schiffer, $1.99. I love it when I find a sweet story with LGBTQ+ representation. From the publisher: “Stella's class is having a Mother's Day celebration, but what's a girl with two daddies to do? It's not that she doesn't have someone who helps her with her homework, or tucks her in at night. Stella has her Papa and Daddy who take care of her, and a whole gaggle of other loved ones who make her feel special and supported every day. She just doesn't have a mom to invite to the party. Fortunately, Stella finds a unique solution to her party problem in this sweet story about love, acceptance, and the true meaning of family.”
Hippo Goes Bananas! by Marjorie Dennis Murray, $0.99. When Hippo wakes up with a bad toothache, he begins acting strangely. Cuckoo sees what he is doing and starts telling the other animals, who each slightly embellish the story. What’s really going on with Hippo, and what can they do to help? Kids will love this fun, over-the-top story.
Duck! Rabbit! by Amy Krauss Rosenthal, $0.99. This fun picture book takes its premise from a classic optical illusion. The simple story reminds the reader to consider all sides of an argument. You can also use it to start a discussion about how to present a persuasive argument with evidence.
The Ecology Book: Big Ideas Simply Explained, by DK Publishing, $1.99. This DK book is packed full of information about developments in the field of ecology, in approximately chronological order. Short sections cover basic scientific principles like evolution, heredity, food webs, mutualisms, and biodiversity. The text is a bit dense, but the frequent illustrations and diagrams help to reinforce concepts. Note: Several books in this DK series are on sale this week — don’t miss them!
The Big, Bad Book of Botany: The World’s Most Fascinating Flora, by Michael Largo, $1.99. The publisher describes this book as “David Attenborough meets Lemony Snicket,” and if that doesn’t sell you on it, I’m not sure what will. This alphabetical compendium of weird and wonderful plants is full of fascinating details and carefully drawn illustrations. There is something to fascinate readers of all ages.
Up in the Garden and Down in the Dirt, by Kate Messner, $1.99. This beautiful picture follows a garden through the seasons to see what is happening above and below the surface. Information sections about organic gardening techniques and about each of the creatures encountered in the story provide a great jumping off point for further learning.
Erosion: How Hugh Bennett Saved America’s Soil and Ended the Dust Bowl, by Darcy Pattison, $0.99. The Moments in Science series is a great choice for elementary readers! Pattison delves into the the human factors at play in major scientific discoveries. In this book, she looks at a lesser-known episode in science history: the creation of the Soil Conservation Service, which was started in the 1930s to combat severe erosion in the Dust Bowl. The fun illustrations and just the right number of words per page will make this an enjoyable read for younger kids.
The Eye of Ra, by Ben Gartner, $0.99. Action meets time travel meets ancient mythology in this exciting middle-grade read! From the publisher: “Exploring a mysterious cave in the mountains behind their house, John and his sister Sarah are shocked to discover they’ve time traveled to ancient Egypt! Now they must work together to find a way back home from an ancient civilization of golden desert sand and a towering new pyramid, without parents to save them. The adventures abound—cobras, scorpions, a tomb robber, and more! The two kids have to trust each other, make friends who can help, and survive the challenges thrown at them . . . or be stuck in ancient Egypt forever. For readers graduating from the Magic Tree House series and ready for intense action, dive into this middle grade novel rich with meticulous historical detail.”
The Enneagram of Parenting, by Elizabeth Wagele, $1.99. If you are new to the Enneagram personality descriptions or are curious about how you might apply them to children, this breezy primer could be the answer. Wagele describes the nine major personality types and how they are expressed in children of various ages. The book does not offer a comprehensive test to determine type, but it provides general descriptions and useful advice for common parenting issues.
Why I Love Homeschooling Neurodiverse Kids: 25 Parents Share the Joys and Challenges of Educating Their Kids Who Have ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia, Giftedness, or are Otherwise Differently Wired, by Kathy Oaks and Brynn Steimle, $0.99. It can be hard for public schools to meet the needs to neurodivergent kids. I’ve found that ND families are very well represented in homeschool groups. Kathy Oaks shares stories from parents of ND kids that highlight the challenges and great rewards of homeschooling. In this book, you’ll find real-world tips for adapting the learning environment to your child, as well as encouragement and a wide variety of perspectives. Bonus: Kathy’s other homeschooling books are also on sale this weekend! Check out Homeschoolers are not Hermits, Road Schooling, Why I Love Homeschooling, and The Homeschoolers Are Not Hermits Quick Start Guide to Homeschooling.
We are Displaced: My Journey and Stories from Refugee Girls Around the World, by Malala Yousafzai, $3.99. From the publisher: “Malala's experiences visiting refugee camps caused her to reconsider her own displacement — first as an Internally Displaced Person when she was a young child in Pakistan, and then as an international activist who could travel anywhere in the world except to the home she loved. In We Are Displaced, Malala not only explores her own story, but she also shares the personal stories of some of the incredible girls she has met on her journeys — girls who have lost their community, relatives, and often the only world they've ever known.” Best for older middle-grade readers, this book has content warnings for violence.
Flora and the Flamingo, by Molly Idle, $1.99. Another fun wordless book! Flora is a budding dancer. When she encounters a flamingo, they both learn moves from each other. The illustrations are exuberant and charming, and kids can make up the words as they go. Many will be delighted to try to recreate Flora’s dances!
Fossil, by Bill Thomson, $0.99. This book is a great language arts opportunity! The story is told through vivid illustrations, but without words. Kids can create their own narrative about a child who discovers a fossil on the beach that comes to life when touched. At first, this is exciting, but when a pterodactyl carries away a dog, the kid must figure out how to return the creatures to their fossil state.
Ender’s World: Fresh Perspectives on the SF Classic Ender’s Game, by Orson Scott Card and others, $3.99. Ender’s Game (not so much the sequels) is a masterpiece of YA literature, and a touchstone for many gifted kids. This collection of essays from big names in literature and and even military strategists offers a deeper dive into the Ender’s universe.
The Testing, by Joelle Charbonneau, $1.99. Calling all fans of The Hunger Games or Divergent! This series should scratch that dystopian coming-of-age itch. Here’s a summary from the publisher: “It’s graduation day for sixteen-year-old Malencia Vale, and the entire Five Lakes Colony (the former Great Lakes) is celebrating. All Cia can think about—hope for—is whether she’ll be chosen for The Testing, a United Commonwealth program that selects the best and brightest new graduates to become possible leaders of the slowly revitalizing post-war civilization. When Cia is chosen, her father finally tells her about his own nightmarish half-memories of The Testing. Armed with his dire warnings (“Cia, trust no one”), she bravely heads off to Tosu City, far away from friends and family, perhaps forever. Danger, romance—and sheer terror—await.”
Howl’s Moving Castle, by Diana Wynne Jones, $3.50. Amy used this book and others to create a massive Studio Ghibli unit study. Here is her review: “Sometimes a curse can be just what you needed, as Sophie discovers in this delightful fantasy about a hat maker's daughter who's cursed to premature old age by the Witch of the Waste. To break the curse, Sophie will need to team up with the mysterious wizard Howl, who happens to be stuck under a curse of his own—but first, she'll have to get to his castle, which has a habit of wandering around. I love this as a readaloud, on its own, or (of course) a companion piece to the equally wonderful (though often quite different) movie adaptation.”
Stinkiest! 20 Smelly Animals, by Steve Jenkins, $3.99. Can you name 20 smelly animals? I’m not sure I could without reading this fun picture book. There’s a skunk on the cover, but Jenkins introduces readers to opossoms, hoopoes, millipedes, and lots of other big and little stinkers. If your kids are into gross facts (and who isn’t?), they will have a great time with this book.
Art Before Breakfast: A Zillion Ways to be More Creative No Matter How Busy You Are, by Danny Gregory, $2.99. My daughter loves doing art and fills lots of her spare time making things. I’ve never considered myself an artist and struggle to find time to develop my skills. This book is a great place to start. Danny Gregory has created short, fun activities that take 10 minutes or less. They will encourage you to make art a regular part of your life. This book is a great way to add some art education to your homeschool, or to carve out a bit of time for your own creativity.
How Art Can Make You Happy, by Bridget Watson Payne, $1.99. A lot of homeschoolers I know have trouble working art into their education plans. This little book can help to bring some fresh ideas to your school year! With a focus on finding joy in experiencing and making art, this collection of tips, quotes, and pep talks is useful and inspiring.
The Brothers Grimm: Illuminated Fairy Tales, by The Brothers Grimm, $1.99. Occasionally you find a book that is uniquely designed for the ebook format. This collection of Grimm Fairy Tales is beautifully illustrated, with subtly animated elements! As you read, you can watch the witch threaten Hansel and Gretel. Each story is illustrated in a different artist, and you could compare and contrast their styles for a fun art lesson.
The Jane Austen Handbook, by Margaret Sullivan, $2.99. Both Austen newbies and proper Janeites will find this delightful little guidebook very useful. A light, tongue-in-cheek tone pairs well with a serious vault of knowledge about Regency England. Not sure whether a Marquis outranks a Duke? Or how rich Mr. Darcy would be in modern terms? This book will help fill in all the gaps.
Kindle Deals for October 8, 2021
Scary YA tales
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.
Asylum, by Madeline Roux, $1.99. Like Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children, this deliciously creepy YA novel is intersperse with found photos from actual asylums. When the normal dorms are closed for renovation, the teens at a summer program have to stay in a former home for the criminally insane. As the kids explore their new surroundings they begin to discover disturbing secrets about the past that might impact their future.
The Things She’s Seen, by Ambelin and Ezekiel Kwaymullina, $1.99. The premise of this chilling mystery is fascinating — Beth is dead, and the only person who can see her is her grief-stricken father. When Australian outback is rocked by another death and mysterious fire, Beth is in a unique position to help solve the case, and help her father come to terms with living. I’ve not come across many YA books written by Aboriginal authors; this is a great opportunity to diversify your bookshelf!
The Walls Around Us, by Nova Ren Suma, $1.99. This YA book is told in two voices, and only one of them is still alive. From the publisher: “The Walls Around Us is a ghostly story of suspense told in two voices--one still living and one dead. On the outside, there’s Violet, an eighteen-year-old ballerina days away from the life of her dreams when something threatens to expose the shocking truth of her achievement. On the inside, within the walls of a girls’ juvenile detention center, there’s Amber, locked up for so long she can’t imagine freedom. Tying these two worlds together is Orianna, who holds the key to unlocking all the girls’ darkest mysteries: What really happened on the night Orianna stepped between Violet and her tormentors? What really happened on two strange nights at Aurora Hills? Will Amber and Violet and Orianna ever get the justice they deserve--in this life or in another one?”
The Devouring Gray, by Christine Lynn Herman, $2.99. Enter a new world with some serious Stranger Things vibes. The town of Four Paths lives uneasily alongside The Gray, an alternate dimension that houses a terrifying monster. When newcomer Violet accidentally releases the monster, she must band together with members of the founding families to stop it.
STILL ON SALE
The Mystery of Black Hollow Lane, by Julia Nobel, $1.99. Amy really liked this one when she read it earlier this year. Here’s her review: Emmy’s dad is MIA, and her mom is so busy explaining how other people can be great parents that she never has time to just be Emmy’s parent. Emmy is crushed when her mom ships her off to a fancy British boarding school — until she gets pulled into a mystery involving a super-secret order that may involve her long-missing father. It’s true that I’m a sucker for a boarding school book, but this is the kind of middle grades book I like best: It assumes a smart reader who can connect the pieces, and there’s plenty of action to keep the plot moving and mostly likable, individual characters who make you care about what’s happening. I recommend this one!
Nightbooks, by J.A. White, $1.99. A movie based on this book was just released on Netflix! In a deliciously creepy take on 1001 Nights, a boy is kidnapped by a witch and must tell her a new scary story every night. Alex is making up the stories on the fly, and the book also includes a crash course in putting together an amazing tale.
Spirit Hunters, by Ellen Oh, $1.99. This middle grade mystery/horror novel packs a seriously scary punch! Sensitive readers may want to avoid this one; the descriptions of the actions of the angry spirits haunting the main character’s house are intense. Harper has moved to a new town, and there rumors that her house contains evil spirits. Could that be the reason her brother is acting strangely? Both Korean and Jamaican culture are integral parts of the story!
The House in Poplar Wood, by K.E. Ormsbee, $1.99. When I saw this book described as “Haunted Mansion meets Stranger Things,” I was totally hooked. The publisher has written a better summary than I possibly could: “For as long as the Vickery twins can remember, Lee and his mother have served Memory, while Felix and his father assist Death. This is the Agreement. But one Halloween, Gretchen Whipple smashes her way into their lives. Her bargain is simple: If the twins help her solve the murder of local girl Essie Hasting, she'll help them break the Agreement. The more the three investigate, however, the more they realize that something's gone terribly wrong in their town. Death is on the loose, and if history repeats itself, Essie's might not be the last murder in Poplar Wood. Simultaneously heartwarming and delightfully spooky, The House in Poplar Wood is a story about a boy's desire to be free, a girl's desire to make a difference, and a family's desire to be together again.”
How to Talk so Teens will Listen, by Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlish, $2.99. Their original book, How to Talk so Kids will Listen, gave me some great communication and parenting advice that I put into practice regularly at home and in the co-op I lead. I particularly like their focus on meeting kids on their emotional level. A few simple words that let a kid know you are hearing them can make a huge difference in working through tough issues. My daughter is (gasp!) moving into the tween/teen years, so it is time to check out what these two have to say about teenagers.
Bare Minimum Parenting: The Ultimate Guide to Not Quite Ruining Your Child, by James Breakwell, $4.99. This is obviously a tongue-in-cheek parenting guide, designed for laughs. That doesn’t mean it is short on the useful tidbits, though. If you are ready to laugh about the parenting journey, pick up this entertaining book.
How to Raise a Feminist Son, by Sonora Jha, $1.99. I haven’t read this one (I don’t have sons), but this description from the publisher sounds excellent. “Informed by Jha's work as a professor of journalism specializing in social justice movements and social media, as well as by conversations with psychologists, experts, other parents and boys--and through powerful stories from her own life--How to Raise a Feminist Son shows us all how to be better feminists and better teachers of the next generation of men in this electrifying tour de force. Includes chapter takeaways, and an annotated bibliography of reading and watching recommendations for adults and children.”
Dirk Bones and the Mystery of the Haunted House, by Doug Cushman, $1.99. Meet Dirk Bones, a detective and journalist who happens to be a skeleton. When a house is filled with weird noises, it is up to Dirk to find out what is going on.
Lulu Goes to Witch School, by Jane O’Connor, $1.99. The little witch in this story from Fancy Nancy creator Jane O’Connor is precious. Lulu is starting witch school, where she will learn to do magic and use her broom. She loves everything about the new school, except for one kid who seems intent to show off. It’s more of a day-in-the-life story than something with an exciting plot, but the adorable illustrations and simple language make it a good choice for young readers.
At the Old Haunted House, by Helen Ketteman, $0.99. Get ready for a fun remake of the classic song “Over in the Meadow.” This spooky twist on a counting song will be perfect for your Halloween math lessons. Count up the monsters, cats, goblins, witches and other creatures. There are lots of classic horror characters, but don’t worry — they are all having a good time and aren’t very scary.
In a Dark, Dark Room and Other Scary Stories, by Alvin Schwartz, $1.99. Some kids just LOVE to be creeped out, and it’s never too early to get a delightfully spooky book into their hands. This is a collection of scary stories for beginning readers. Turn down the lights and let your child give a haunted story hour. The vibrant and twisted illustrations add to the fun.
Three Cheers for Kid McGear! by Sherri Duskey Rinker, $1.99. I’ve read Rinker’s construction site books more times than I can count. In the latest addition, Kid McGear is the newest team member looking to prove herself. Kid is smaller than the other machines, but that doesn’t mean she can’t save the day when needed!
Stella Brings the Family, by Miriam B. Schiffer, $1.99. I love it when I find a sweet story with LGBTQ+ representation. From the publisher: “Stella's class is having a Mother's Day celebration, but what's a girl with two daddies to do? It's not that she doesn't have someone who helps her with her homework, or tucks her in at night. Stella has her Papa and Daddy who take care of her, and a whole gaggle of other loved ones who make her feel special and supported every day. She just doesn't have a mom to invite to the party. Fortunately, Stella finds a unique solution to her party problem in this sweet story about love, acceptance, and the true meaning of family.”
Hippo Goes Bananas! by Marjorie Dennis Murray, $0.99. When Hippo wakes up with a bad toothache, he begins acting strangely. Cuckoo sees what he is doing and starts telling the other animals, who each slightly embellish the story. What’s really going on with Hippo, and what can they do to help? Kids will love this fun, over-the-top story.
Duck! Rabbit! by Amy Krauss Rosenthal, $0.99. This fun picture book takes its premise from a classic optical illusion. The simple story reminds the reader to consider all sides of an argument. You can also use it to start a discussion about how to present a persuasive argument with evidence.
The Ecology Book: Big Ideas Simply Explained, by DK Publishing, $1.99. This DK book is packed full of information about developments in the field of ecology, in approximately chronological order. Short sections cover basic scientific principles like evolution, heredity, food webs, mutualisms, and biodiversity. The text is a bit dense, but the frequent illustrations and diagrams help to reinforce concepts. Note: Several books in this DK series are on sale this week — don’t miss them!
The Big, Bad Book of Botany: The World’s Most Fascinating Flora, by Michael Largo, $1.99. The publisher describes this book as “David Attenborough meets Lemony Snicket,” and if that doesn’t sell you on it, I’m not sure what will. This alphabetical compendium of weird and wonderful plants is full of fascinating details and carefully drawn illustrations. There is something to fascinate readers of all ages.
Up in the Garden and Down in the Dirt, by Kate Messner, $1.99. This beautiful picture follows a garden through the seasons to see what is happening above and below the surface. Information sections about organic gardening techniques and about each of the creatures encountered in the story provide a great jumping off point for further learning.
Erosion: How Hugh Bennett Saved America’s Soil and Ended the Dust Bowl, by Darcy Pattison, $0.99. The Moments in Science series is a great choice for elementary readers! Pattison delves into the the human factors at play in major scientific discoveries. In this book, she looks at a lesser-known episode in science history: the creation of the Soil Conservation Service, which was started in the 1930s to combat severe erosion in the Dust Bowl. The fun illustrations and just the right number of words per page will make this an enjoyable read for younger kids.
The Eye of Ra, by Ben Gartner, $0.99. Action meets time travel meets ancient mythology in this exciting middle-grade read! From the publisher: “Exploring a mysterious cave in the mountains behind their house, John and his sister Sarah are shocked to discover they’ve time traveled to ancient Egypt! Now they must work together to find a way back home from an ancient civilization of golden desert sand and a towering new pyramid, without parents to save them. The adventures abound—cobras, scorpions, a tomb robber, and more! The two kids have to trust each other, make friends who can help, and survive the challenges thrown at them . . . or be stuck in ancient Egypt forever. For readers graduating from the Magic Tree House series and ready for intense action, dive into this middle grade novel rich with meticulous historical detail.”
The Grown-Up’s Guide to Teenage Humans: How to Decode Their Behavior, Develop Trust, and Raise a Respectable Adult, by Josh Shipp, $1.99. Most of us either have teens are preparing for those challenging and pivotal years. From the publisher: “In 2015, Harvard researchers found that every child who does well in the face of adversity has had at least one stable and committed relationship with a supportive adult. But Josh Shipp didn’t need Harvard to know that. Once an at-risk foster kid, he was headed straight for trouble until he met the man who changed his life: Rodney, the foster parent who refused to quit on Shipp and got him to believe in himself. Now, in The Grown-Up’s Guide to Teenage Humans, Shipp shows all of us how to be that caring adult in a teenager’s life. Stressing the need for compassion, trust, and encouragement, he breaks down the phases of a teenage human from sixth to twelfth grade, examining the changes, goals, and mentality of teenagers at each stage. Shipp offers revelatory stories that take us inside the teen brain, and shares wisdom from top professionals and the most expert grown-ups.“
The Enneagram of Parenting, by Elizabeth Wagele, $1.99. If you are new to the Enneagram personality descriptions or are curious about how you might apply them to children, this breezy primer could be the answer. Wagele describes the nine major personality types and how they are expressed in children of various ages. The book does not offer a comprehensive test to determine type, but it provides general descriptions and useful advice for common parenting issues.
Why I Love Homeschooling Neurodiverse Kids: 25 Parents Share the Joys and Challenges of Educating Their Kids Who Have ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia, Giftedness, or are Otherwise Differently Wired, by Kathy Oaks and Brynn Steimle, $0.99. It can be hard for public schools to meet the needs to neurodivergent kids. I’ve found that ND families are very well represented in homeschool groups. Kathy Oaks shares stories from parents of ND kids that highlight the challenges and great rewards of homeschooling. In this book, you’ll find real-world tips for adapting the learning environment to your child, as well as encouragement and a wide variety of perspectives. Bonus: Kathy’s other homeschooling books are also on sale this weekend! Check out Homeschoolers are not Hermits, Road Schooling, Why I Love Homeschooling, and The Homeschoolers Are Not Hermits Quick Start Guide to Homeschooling.
We are Displaced: My Journey and Stories from Refugee Girls Around the World, by Malala Yousafzai, $3.99. From the publisher: “Malala's experiences visiting refugee camps caused her to reconsider her own displacement — first as an Internally Displaced Person when she was a young child in Pakistan, and then as an international activist who could travel anywhere in the world except to the home she loved. In We Are Displaced, Malala not only explores her own story, but she also shares the personal stories of some of the incredible girls she has met on her journeys — girls who have lost their community, relatives, and often the only world they've ever known.” Best for older middle-grade readers, this book has content warnings for violence.
Flora and the Flamingo, by Molly Idle, $1.99. Another fun wordless book! Flora is a budding dancer. When she encounters a flamingo, they both learn moves from each other. The illustrations are exuberant and charming, and kids can make up the words as they go. Many will be delighted to try to recreate Flora’s dances!
Fossil, by Bill Thomson, $0.99. This book is a great language arts opportunity! The story is told through vivid illustrations, but without words. Kids can create their own narrative about a child who discovers a fossil on the beach that comes to life when touched. At first, this is exciting, but when a pterodactyl carries away a dog, the kid must figure out how to return the creatures to their fossil state.
Ender’s World: Fresh Perspectives on the SF Classic Ender’s Game, by Orson Scott Card and others, $3.99. Ender’s Game (not so much the sequels) is a masterpiece of YA literature, and a touchstone for many gifted kids. This collection of essays from big names in literature and and even military strategists offers a deeper dive into the Ender’s universe.
The Testing, by Joelle Charbonneau, $1.99. Calling all fans of The Hunger Games or Divergent! This series should scratch that dystopian coming-of-age itch. Here’s a summary from the publisher: “It’s graduation day for sixteen-year-old Malencia Vale, and the entire Five Lakes Colony (the former Great Lakes) is celebrating. All Cia can think about—hope for—is whether she’ll be chosen for The Testing, a United Commonwealth program that selects the best and brightest new graduates to become possible leaders of the slowly revitalizing post-war civilization. When Cia is chosen, her father finally tells her about his own nightmarish half-memories of The Testing. Armed with his dire warnings (“Cia, trust no one”), she bravely heads off to Tosu City, far away from friends and family, perhaps forever. Danger, romance—and sheer terror—await.”
Howl’s Moving Castle, by Diana Wynne Jones, $3.50. Amy used this book and others to create a massive Studio Ghibli unit study. Here is her review: “Sometimes a curse can be just what you needed, as Sophie discovers in this delightful fantasy about a hat maker's daughter who's cursed to premature old age by the Witch of the Waste. To break the curse, Sophie will need to team up with the mysterious wizard Howl, who happens to be stuck under a curse of his own—but first, she'll have to get to his castle, which has a habit of wandering around. I love this as a readaloud, on its own, or (of course) a companion piece to the equally wonderful (though often quite different) movie adaptation.”
Stinkiest! 20 Smelly Animals, by Steve Jenkins, $3.99. Can you name 20 smelly animals? I’m not sure I could without reading this fun picture book. There’s a skunk on the cover, but Jenkins introduces readers to opossoms, hoopoes, millipedes, and lots of other big and little stinkers. If your kids are into gross facts (and who isn’t?), they will have a great time with this book.
Art Before Breakfast: A Zillion Ways to be More Creative No Matter How Busy You Are, by Danny Gregory, $2.99. My daughter loves doing art and fills lots of her spare time making things. I’ve never considered myself an artist and struggle to find time to develop my skills. This book is a great place to start. Danny Gregory has created short, fun activities that take 10 minutes or less. They will encourage you to make art a regular part of your life. This book is a great way to add some art education to your homeschool, or to carve out a bit of time for your own creativity.
How Art Can Make You Happy, by Bridget Watson Payne, $1.99. A lot of homeschoolers I know have trouble working art into their education plans. This little book can help to bring some fresh ideas to your school year! With a focus on finding joy in experiencing and making art, this collection of tips, quotes, and pep talks is useful and inspiring.
The Brothers Grimm: Illuminated Fairy Tales, by The Brothers Grimm, $1.99. Occasionally you find a book that is uniquely designed for the ebook format. This collection of Grimm Fairy Tales is beautifully illustrated, with subtly animated elements! As you read, you can watch the witch threaten Hansel and Gretel. Each story is illustrated in a different artist, and you could compare and contrast their styles for a fun art lesson.
The Jane Austen Handbook, by Margaret Sullivan, $2.99. Both Austen newbies and proper Janeites will find this delightful little guidebook very useful. A light, tongue-in-cheek tone pairs well with a serious vault of knowledge about Regency England. Not sure whether a Marquis outranks a Duke? Or how rich Mr. Darcy would be in modern terms? This book will help fill in all the gaps.
Kindle Deals for October 6, 2021
Spooky middle grade reads
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 House in Poplar Wood, by K.E. Ormsbee, $1.99. When I saw this book described as “Haunted Mansion meets Stranger Things,” I was totally hooked. The publisher has written a better summary than I possibly could: “For as long as the Vickery twins can remember, Lee and his mother have served Memory, while Felix and his father assist Death. This is the Agreement. But one Halloween, Gretchen Whipple smashes her way into their lives. Her bargain is simple: If the twins help her solve the murder of local girl Essie Hasting, she'll help them break the Agreement. The more the three investigate, however, the more they realize that something's gone terribly wrong in their town. Death is on the loose, and if history repeats itself, Essie's might not be the last murder in Poplar Wood. Simultaneously heartwarming and delightfully spooky, The House in Poplar Wood is a story about a boy's desire to be free, a girl's desire to make a difference, and a family's desire to be together again.”
Spirit Hunters, by Ellen Oh, $1.99. This middle grade mystery/horror novel packs a seriously scary punch! Sensitive readers may want to avoid this one; the descriptions of the actions of the angry spirits haunting the main character’s house are intense. Harper has moved to a new town, and there rumors that her house contains evil spirits. Could that be the reason her brother is acting strangely? Both Korean and Jamaican culture are integral parts of the story!
Nightbooks, by J.A. White, $1.99. A movie based on this book was just released on Netflix! In a deliciously creepy take on 1001 Nights, a boy is kidnapped by a witch and must tell her a new scary story every night. Alex is making up the stories on the fly, and the book also includes a crash course in putting together an amazing tale.
The Mystery of Black Hollow Lane, by Julia Nobel, $1.99. Amy really liked this one when she read it earlier this year. Here’s her review: Emmy’s dad is MIA, and her mom is so busy explaining how other people can be great parents that she never has time to just be Emmy’s parent. Emmy is crushed when her mom ships her off to a fancy British boarding school — until she gets pulled into a mystery involving a super-secret order that may involve her long-missing father. It’s true that I’m a sucker for a boarding school book, but this is the kind of middle grades book I like best: It assumes a smart reader who can connect the pieces, and there’s plenty of action to keep the plot moving and mostly likable, individual characters who make you care about what’s happening. I recommend this one!
STILL ON SALE
How to Talk so Teens will Listen, by Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlish, $2.99. Their original book, How to Talk so Kids will Listen, gave me some great communication and parenting advice that I put into practice regularly at home and in the co-op I lead. I particularly like their focus on meeting kids on their emotional level. A few simple words that let a kid know you are hearing them can make a huge difference in working through tough issues. My daughter is (gasp!) moving into the tween/teen years, so it is time to check out what these two have to say about teenagers.
Bare Minimum Parenting: The Ultimate Guide to Not Quite Ruining Your Child, by James Breakwell, $4.99. This is obviously a tongue-in-cheek parenting guide, designed for laughs. That doesn’t mean it is short on the useful tidbits, though. If you are ready to laugh about the parenting journey, pick up this entertaining book.
How to Raise a Feminist Son, by Sonora Jha, $1.99. I haven’t read this one (I don’t have sons), but this description from the publisher sounds excellent. “Informed by Jha's work as a professor of journalism specializing in social justice movements and social media, as well as by conversations with psychologists, experts, other parents and boys--and through powerful stories from her own life--How to Raise a Feminist Son shows us all how to be better feminists and better teachers of the next generation of men in this electrifying tour de force. Includes chapter takeaways, and an annotated bibliography of reading and watching recommendations for adults and children.”
The Power of Showing Up: How Parental Presence Shapes Who Our Kids Become and How Their Brains Get Wired, by Daniel J. Siegel and Tina Payne Bryson, $1.99. Siegel and Bryson argue that the best thing we can do for our children is provide a stable and consistent presence in their lives. To do this, they offer tips and scripts for what to do in a variety of common situations. Helpfully, they also include sections on what parents should do to fix things when they (inevitably) screw up and let their kids down.
Dirk Bones and the Mystery of the Haunted House, by Doug Cushman, $1.99. Meet Dirk Bones, a detective and journalist who happens to be a skeleton. When a house is filled with weird noises, it is up to Dirk to find out what is going on.
Lulu Goes to Witch School, by Jane O’Connor, $1.99. The little witch in this story from Fancy Nancy creator Jane O’Connor is precious. Lulu is starting witch school, where she will learn to do magic and use her broom. She loves everything about the new school, except for one kid who seems intent to show off. It’s more of a day-in-the-life story than something with an exciting plot, but the adorable illustrations and simple language make it a good choice for young readers.
At the Old Haunted House, by Helen Ketteman, $0.99. Get ready for a fun remake of the classic song “Over in the Meadow.” This spooky twist on a counting song will be perfect for your Halloween math lessons. Count up the monsters, cats, goblins, witches and other creatures. There are lots of classic horror characters, but don’t worry — they are all having a good time and aren’t very scary.
In a Dark, Dark Room and Other Scary Stories, by Alvin Schwartz, $1.99. Some kids just LOVE to be creeped out, and it’s never too early to get a delightfully spooky book into their hands. This is a collection of scary stories for beginning readers. Turn down the lights and let your child give a haunted story hour. The vibrant and twisted illustrations add to the fun.
Three Cheers for Kid McGear! by Sherri Duskey Rinker, $1.99. I’ve read Rinker’s construction site books more times than I can count. In the latest addition, Kid McGear is the newest team member looking to prove herself. Kid is smaller than the other machines, but that doesn’t mean she can’t save the day when needed!
Stella Brings the Family, by Miriam B. Schiffer, $1.99. I love it when I find a sweet story with LGBTQ+ representation. From the publisher: “Stella's class is having a Mother's Day celebration, but what's a girl with two daddies to do? It's not that she doesn't have someone who helps her with her homework, or tucks her in at night. Stella has her Papa and Daddy who take care of her, and a whole gaggle of other loved ones who make her feel special and supported every day. She just doesn't have a mom to invite to the party. Fortunately, Stella finds a unique solution to her party problem in this sweet story about love, acceptance, and the true meaning of family.”
Hippo Goes Bananas! by Marjorie Dennis Murray, $0.99. When Hippo wakes up with a bad toothache, he begins acting strangely. Cuckoo sees what he is doing and starts telling the other animals, who each slightly embellish the story. What’s really going on with Hippo, and what can they do to help? Kids will love this fun, over-the-top story.
Duck! Rabbit! by Amy Krauss Rosenthal, $0.99. This fun picture book takes its premise from a classic optical illusion. The simple story reminds the reader to consider all sides of an argument. You can also use it to start a discussion about how to present a persuasive argument with evidence.
The Ecology Book: Big Ideas Simply Explained, by DK Publishing, $1.99. This DK book is packed full of information about developments in the field of ecology, in approximately chronological order. Short sections cover basic scientific principles like evolution, heredity, food webs, mutualisms, and biodiversity. The text is a bit dense, but the frequent illustrations and diagrams help to reinforce concepts. Note: Several books in this DK series are on sale this week — don’t miss them!
The Big, Bad Book of Botany: The World’s Most Fascinating Flora, by Michael Largo, $1.99. The publisher describes this book as “David Attenborough meets Lemony Snicket,” and if that doesn’t sell you on it, I’m not sure what will. This alphabetical compendium of weird and wonderful plants is full of fascinating details and carefully drawn illustrations. There is something to fascinate readers of all ages.
Up in the Garden and Down in the Dirt, by Kate Messner, $1.99. This beautiful picture follows a garden through the seasons to see what is happening above and below the surface. Information sections about organic gardening techniques and about each of the creatures encountered in the story provide a great jumping off point for further learning.
Erosion: How Hugh Bennett Saved America’s Soil and Ended the Dust Bowl, by Darcy Pattison, $0.99. The Moments in Science series is a great choice for elementary readers! Pattison delves into the the human factors at play in major scientific discoveries. In this book, she looks at a lesser-known episode in science history: the creation of the Soil Conservation Service, which was started in the 1930s to combat severe erosion in the Dust Bowl. The fun illustrations and just the right number of words per page will make this an enjoyable read for younger kids.
The Eye of Ra, by Ben Gartner, $0.99. Action meets time travel meets ancient mythology in this exciting middle-grade read! From the publisher: “Exploring a mysterious cave in the mountains behind their house, John and his sister Sarah are shocked to discover they’ve time traveled to ancient Egypt! Now they must work together to find a way back home from an ancient civilization of golden desert sand and a towering new pyramid, without parents to save them. The adventures abound—cobras, scorpions, a tomb robber, and more! The two kids have to trust each other, make friends who can help, and survive the challenges thrown at them . . . or be stuck in ancient Egypt forever. For readers graduating from the Magic Tree House series and ready for intense action, dive into this middle grade novel rich with meticulous historical detail.”
The Grown-Up’s Guide to Teenage Humans: How to Decode Their Behavior, Develop Trust, and Raise a Respectable Adult, by Josh Shipp, $1.99. Most of us either have teens are preparing for those challenging and pivotal years. From the publisher: “In 2015, Harvard researchers found that every child who does well in the face of adversity has had at least one stable and committed relationship with a supportive adult. But Josh Shipp didn’t need Harvard to know that. Once an at-risk foster kid, he was headed straight for trouble until he met the man who changed his life: Rodney, the foster parent who refused to quit on Shipp and got him to believe in himself. Now, in The Grown-Up’s Guide to Teenage Humans, Shipp shows all of us how to be that caring adult in a teenager’s life. Stressing the need for compassion, trust, and encouragement, he breaks down the phases of a teenage human from sixth to twelfth grade, examining the changes, goals, and mentality of teenagers at each stage. Shipp offers revelatory stories that take us inside the teen brain, and shares wisdom from top professionals and the most expert grown-ups.“
The Enneagram of Parenting, by Elizabeth Wagele, $1.99. If you are new to the Enneagram personality descriptions or are curious about how you might apply them to children, this breezy primer could be the answer. Wagele describes the nine major personality types and how they are expressed in children of various ages. The book does not offer a comprehensive test to determine type, but it provides general descriptions and useful advice for common parenting issues.
Why I Love Homeschooling Neurodiverse Kids: 25 Parents Share the Joys and Challenges of Educating Their Kids Who Have ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia, Giftedness, or are Otherwise Differently Wired, by Kathy Oaks and Brynn Steimle, $0.99. It can be hard for public schools to meet the needs to neurodivergent kids. I’ve found that ND families are very well represented in homeschool groups. Kathy Oaks shares stories from parents of ND kids that highlight the challenges and great rewards of homeschooling. In this book, you’ll find real-world tips for adapting the learning environment to your child, as well as encouragement and a wide variety of perspectives. Bonus: Kathy’s other homeschooling books are also on sale this weekend! Check out Homeschoolers are not Hermits, Road Schooling, Why I Love Homeschooling, and The Homeschoolers Are Not Hermits Quick Start Guide to Homeschooling.
We are Displaced: My Journey and Stories from Refugee Girls Around the World, by Malala Yousafzai, $3.99. From the publisher: “Malala's experiences visiting refugee camps caused her to reconsider her own displacement — first as an Internally Displaced Person when she was a young child in Pakistan, and then as an international activist who could travel anywhere in the world except to the home she loved. In We Are Displaced, Malala not only explores her own story, but she also shares the personal stories of some of the incredible girls she has met on her journeys — girls who have lost their community, relatives, and often the only world they've ever known.” Best for older middle-grade readers, this book has content warnings for violence.
Flora and the Flamingo, by Molly Idle, $1.99. Another fun wordless book! Flora is a budding dancer. When she encounters a flamingo, they both learn moves from each other. The illustrations are exuberant and charming, and kids can make up the words as they go. Many will be delighted to try to recreate Flora’s dances!
Fossil, by Bill Thomson, $0.99. This book is a great language arts opportunity! The story is told through vivid illustrations, but without words. Kids can create their own narrative about a child who discovers a fossil on the beach that comes to life when touched. At first, this is exciting, but when a pterodactyl carries away a dog, the kid must figure out how to return the creatures to their fossil state.
Ender’s World: Fresh Perspectives on the SF Classic Ender’s Game, by Orson Scott Card and others, $3.99. Ender’s Game (not so much the sequels) is a masterpiece of YA literature, and a touchstone for many gifted kids. This collection of essays from big names in literature and and even military strategists offers a deeper dive into the Ender’s universe.
The Testing, by Joelle Charbonneau, $1.99. Calling all fans of The Hunger Games or Divergent! This series should scratch that dystopian coming-of-age itch. Here’s a summary from the publisher: “It’s graduation day for sixteen-year-old Malencia Vale, and the entire Five Lakes Colony (the former Great Lakes) is celebrating. All Cia can think about—hope for—is whether she’ll be chosen for The Testing, a United Commonwealth program that selects the best and brightest new graduates to become possible leaders of the slowly revitalizing post-war civilization. When Cia is chosen, her father finally tells her about his own nightmarish half-memories of The Testing. Armed with his dire warnings (“Cia, trust no one”), she bravely heads off to Tosu City, far away from friends and family, perhaps forever. Danger, romance—and sheer terror—await.”
Howl’s Moving Castle, by Diana Wynne Jones, $3.50. Amy used this book and others to create a massive Studio Ghibli unit study. Here is her review: “Sometimes a curse can be just what you needed, as Sophie discovers in this delightful fantasy about a hat maker's daughter who's cursed to premature old age by the Witch of the Waste. To break the curse, Sophie will need to team up with the mysterious wizard Howl, who happens to be stuck under a curse of his own—but first, she'll have to get to his castle, which has a habit of wandering around. I love this as a readaloud, on its own, or (of course) a companion piece to the equally wonderful (though often quite different) movie adaptation.”
Stinkiest! 20 Smelly Animals, by Steve Jenkins, $3.99. Can you name 20 smelly animals? I’m not sure I could without reading this fun picture book. There’s a skunk on the cover, but Jenkins introduces readers to opossoms, hoopoes, millipedes, and lots of other big and little stinkers. If your kids are into gross facts (and who isn’t?), they will have a great time with this book.
Art Before Breakfast: A Zillion Ways to be More Creative No Matter How Busy You Are, by Danny Gregory, $2.99. My daughter loves doing art and fills lots of her spare time making things. I’ve never considered myself an artist and struggle to find time to develop my skills. This book is a great place to start. Danny Gregory has created short, fun activities that take 10 minutes or less. They will encourage you to make art a regular part of your life. This book is a great way to add some art education to your homeschool, or to carve out a bit of time for your own creativity.
How Art Can Make You Happy, by Bridget Watson Payne, $1.99. A lot of homeschoolers I know have trouble working art into their education plans. This little book can help to bring some fresh ideas to your school year! With a focus on finding joy in experiencing and making art, this collection of tips, quotes, and pep talks is useful and inspiring.
The Brothers Grimm: Illuminated Fairy Tales, by The Brothers Grimm, $1.99. Occasionally you find a book that is uniquely designed for the ebook format. This collection of Grimm Fairy Tales is beautifully illustrated, with subtly animated elements! As you read, you can watch the witch threaten Hansel and Gretel. Each story is illustrated in a different artist, and you could compare and contrast their styles for a fun art lesson.
The Jane Austen Handbook, by Margaret Sullivan, $2.99. Both Austen newbies and proper Janeites will find this delightful little guidebook very useful. A light, tongue-in-cheek tone pairs well with a serious vault of knowledge about Regency England. Not sure whether a Marquis outranks a Duke? Or how rich Mr. Darcy would be in modern terms? This book will help fill in all the gaps.
Kindle Deals for October 5, 2021
Parenting guides for all stages and styles
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 Power of Showing Up: How Parental Presence Shapes Who Our Kids Become and How Their Brains Get Wired, by Daniel J. Siegel and Tina Payne Bryson, $1.99. Siegel and Bryson argue that the best thing we can do for our children is provide a stable and consistent presence in their lives. To do this, they offer tips and scripts for what to do in a variety of common situations. Helpfully, they also include sections on what parents should do to fix things when they (inevitably) screw up and let their kids down.
How to Raise a Feminist Son, by Sonora Jha, $1.99. I haven’t read this one (I don’t have sons), but this description from the publisher sounds excellent. “Informed by Jha's work as a professor of journalism specializing in social justice movements and social media, as well as by conversations with psychologists, experts, other parents and boys--and through powerful stories from her own life--How to Raise a Feminist Son shows us all how to be better feminists and better teachers of the next generation of men in this electrifying tour de force. Includes chapter takeaways, and an annotated bibliography of reading and watching recommendations for adults and children.”
Bare Minimum Parenting: The Ultimate Guide to Not Quite Ruining Your Child, by James Breakwell, $4.99. This is obviously a tongue-in-cheek parenting guide, designed for laughs. That doesn’t mean it is short on the useful tidbits, though. If you are ready to laugh about the parenting journey, pick up this entertaining book.
How to Talk so Teens will Listen, by Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlish, $2.99. Their original book, How to Talk so Kids will Listen, gave me some great communication and parenting advice that I put into practice regularly at home and in the co-op I lead. I particularly like their focus on meeting kids on their emotional level. A few simple words that let a kid know you are hearing them can make a huge difference in working through tough issues. My daughter is (gasp!) moving into the tween/teen years, so it is time to check out what these two have to say about teenagers.
STILL ON SALE
Dirk Bones and the Mystery of the Haunted House, by Doug Cushman, $1.99. Meet Dirk Bones, a detective and journalist who happens to be a skeleton. When a house is filled with weird noises, it is up to Dirk to find out what is going on.
Lulu Goes to Witch School, by Jane O’Connor, $1.99. The little witch in this story from Fancy Nancy creator Jane O’Connor is precious. Lulu is starting witch school, where she will learn to do magic and use her broom. She loves everything about the new school, except for one kid who seems intent to show off. It’s more of a day-in-the-life story than something with an exciting plot, but the adorable illustrations and simple language make it a good choice for young readers.
At the Old Haunted House, by Helen Ketteman, $0.99. Get ready for a fun remake of the classic song “Over in the Meadow.” This spooky twist on a counting song will be perfect for your Halloween math lessons. Count up the monsters, cats, goblins, witches and other creatures. There are lots of classic horror characters, but don’t worry — they are all having a good time and aren’t very scary.
In a Dark, Dark Room and Other Scary Stories, by Alvin Schwartz, $1.99. Some kids just LOVE to be creeped out, and it’s never too early to get a delightfully spooky book into their hands. This is a collection of scary stories for beginning readers. Turn down the lights and let your child give a haunted story hour. The vibrant and twisted illustrations add to the fun.
Three Cheers for Kid McGear! by Sherri Duskey Rinker, $1.99. I’ve read Rinker’s construction site books more times than I can count. In the latest addition, Kid McGear is the newest team member looking to prove herself. Kid is smaller than the other machines, but that doesn’t mean she can’t save the day when needed!
Stella Brings the Family, by Miriam B. Schiffer, $1.99. I love it when I find a sweet story with LGBTQ+ representation. From the publisher: “Stella's class is having a Mother's Day celebration, but what's a girl with two daddies to do? It's not that she doesn't have someone who helps her with her homework, or tucks her in at night. Stella has her Papa and Daddy who take care of her, and a whole gaggle of other loved ones who make her feel special and supported every day. She just doesn't have a mom to invite to the party. Fortunately, Stella finds a unique solution to her party problem in this sweet story about love, acceptance, and the true meaning of family.”
Hippo Goes Bananas! by Marjorie Dennis Murray, $0.99. When Hippo wakes up with a bad toothache, he begins acting strangely. Cuckoo sees what he is doing and starts telling the other animals, who each slightly embellish the story. What’s really going on with Hippo, and what can they do to help? Kids will love this fun, over-the-top story.
Duck! Rabbit! by Amy Krauss Rosenthal, $0.99. This fun picture book takes its premise from a classic optical illusion. The simple story reminds the reader to consider all sides of an argument. You can also use it to start a discussion about how to present a persuasive argument with evidence.
The Ecology Book: Big Ideas Simply Explained, by DK Publishing, $1.99. This DK book is packed full of information about developments in the field of ecology, in approximately chronological order. Short sections cover basic scientific principles like evolution, heredity, food webs, mutualisms, and biodiversity. The text is a bit dense, but the frequent illustrations and diagrams help to reinforce concepts. Note: Several books in this DK series are on sale this week — don’t miss them!
The Big, Bad Book of Botany: The World’s Most Fascinating Flora, by Michael Largo, $1.99. The publisher describes this book as “David Attenborough meets Lemony Snicket,” and if that doesn’t sell you on it, I’m not sure what will. This alphabetical compendium of weird and wonderful plants is full of fascinating details and carefully drawn illustrations. There is something to fascinate readers of all ages.
Up in the Garden and Down in the Dirt, by Kate Messner, $1.99. This beautiful picture follows a garden through the seasons to see what is happening above and below the surface. Information sections about organic gardening techniques and about each of the creatures encountered in the story provide a great jumping off point for further learning.
Erosion: How Hugh Bennett Saved America’s Soil and Ended the Dust Bowl, by Darcy Pattison, $0.99. The Moments in Science series is a great choice for elementary readers! Pattison delves into the the human factors at play in major scientific discoveries. In this book, she looks at a lesser-known episode in science history: the creation of the Soil Conservation Service, which was started in the 1930s to combat severe erosion in the Dust Bowl. The fun illustrations and just the right number of words per page will make this an enjoyable read for younger kids.
The Eye of Ra, by Ben Gartner, $0.99. Action meets time travel meets ancient mythology in this exciting middle-grade read! From the publisher: “Exploring a mysterious cave in the mountains behind their house, John and his sister Sarah are shocked to discover they’ve time traveled to ancient Egypt! Now they must work together to find a way back home from an ancient civilization of golden desert sand and a towering new pyramid, without parents to save them. The adventures abound—cobras, scorpions, a tomb robber, and more! The two kids have to trust each other, make friends who can help, and survive the challenges thrown at them . . . or be stuck in ancient Egypt forever. For readers graduating from the Magic Tree House series and ready for intense action, dive into this middle grade novel rich with meticulous historical detail.”
The Grown-Up’s Guide to Teenage Humans: How to Decode Their Behavior, Develop Trust, and Raise a Respectable Adult, by Josh Shipp, $1.99. Most of us either have teens are preparing for those challenging and pivotal years. From the publisher: “In 2015, Harvard researchers found that every child who does well in the face of adversity has had at least one stable and committed relationship with a supportive adult. But Josh Shipp didn’t need Harvard to know that. Once an at-risk foster kid, he was headed straight for trouble until he met the man who changed his life: Rodney, the foster parent who refused to quit on Shipp and got him to believe in himself. Now, in The Grown-Up’s Guide to Teenage Humans, Shipp shows all of us how to be that caring adult in a teenager’s life. Stressing the need for compassion, trust, and encouragement, he breaks down the phases of a teenage human from sixth to twelfth grade, examining the changes, goals, and mentality of teenagers at each stage. Shipp offers revelatory stories that take us inside the teen brain, and shares wisdom from top professionals and the most expert grown-ups.“
The Enneagram of Parenting, by Elizabeth Wagele, $1.99. If you are new to the Enneagram personality descriptions or are curious about how you might apply them to children, this breezy primer could be the answer. Wagele describes the nine major personality types and how they are expressed in children of various ages. The book does not offer a comprehensive test to determine type, but it provides general descriptions and useful advice for common parenting issues.
Why I Love Homeschooling Neurodiverse Kids: 25 Parents Share the Joys and Challenges of Educating Their Kids Who Have ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia, Giftedness, or are Otherwise Differently Wired, by Kathy Oaks and Brynn Steimle, $0.99. It can be hard for public schools to meet the needs to neurodivergent kids. I’ve found that ND families are very well represented in homeschool groups. Kathy Oaks shares stories from parents of ND kids that highlight the challenges and great rewards of homeschooling. In this book, you’ll find real-world tips for adapting the learning environment to your child, as well as encouragement and a wide variety of perspectives. Bonus: Kathy’s other homeschooling books are also on sale this weekend! Check out Homeschoolers are not Hermits, Road Schooling, Why I Love Homeschooling, and The Homeschoolers Are Not Hermits Quick Start Guide to Homeschooling.
We are Displaced: My Journey and Stories from Refugee Girls Around the World, by Malala Yousafzai, $3.99. From the publisher: “Malala's experiences visiting refugee camps caused her to reconsider her own displacement — first as an Internally Displaced Person when she was a young child in Pakistan, and then as an international activist who could travel anywhere in the world except to the home she loved. In We Are Displaced, Malala not only explores her own story, but she also shares the personal stories of some of the incredible girls she has met on her journeys — girls who have lost their community, relatives, and often the only world they've ever known.” Best for older middle-grade readers, this book has content warnings for violence.
Pete the Cat: Falling for Autumn, by Kimberly and James Dean, $1.99. Pete is bummed out that summer is ending, but a trip around a farm helps him to see all the good things about autumn. It’s a simple story packed full of useful information about fall produce and other activities.
Flora and the Flamingo, by Molly Idle, $1.99. Another fun wordless book! Flora is a budding dancer. When she encounters a flamingo, they both learn moves from each other. The illustrations are exuberant and charming, and kids can make up the words as they go. Many will be delighted to try to recreate Flora’s dances!
Fossil, by Bill Thomson, $0.99. This book is a great language arts opportunity! The story is told through vivid illustrations, but without words. Kids can create their own narrative about a child who discovers a fossil on the beach that comes to life when touched. At first, this is exciting, but when a pterodactyl carries away a dog, the kid must figure out how to return the creatures to their fossil state.
Ender’s World: Fresh Perspectives on the SF Classic Ender’s Game, by Orson Scott Card and others, $3.99. Ender’s Game (not so much the sequels) is a masterpiece of YA literature, and a touchstone for many gifted kids. This collection of essays from big names in literature and and even military strategists offers a deeper dive into the Ender’s universe.
The Testing, by Joelle Charbonneau, $1.99. Calling all fans of The Hunger Games or Divergent! This series should scratch that dystopian coming-of-age itch. Here’s a summary from the publisher: “It’s graduation day for sixteen-year-old Malencia Vale, and the entire Five Lakes Colony (the former Great Lakes) is celebrating. All Cia can think about—hope for—is whether she’ll be chosen for The Testing, a United Commonwealth program that selects the best and brightest new graduates to become possible leaders of the slowly revitalizing post-war civilization. When Cia is chosen, her father finally tells her about his own nightmarish half-memories of The Testing. Armed with his dire warnings (“Cia, trust no one”), she bravely heads off to Tosu City, far away from friends and family, perhaps forever. Danger, romance—and sheer terror—await.”
Howl’s Moving Castle, by Diana Wynne Jones, $3.50. Amy used this book and others to create a massive Studio Ghibli unit study. Here is her review: “Sometimes a curse can be just what you needed, as Sophie discovers in this delightful fantasy about a hat maker's daughter who's cursed to premature old age by the Witch of the Waste. To break the curse, Sophie will need to team up with the mysterious wizard Howl, who happens to be stuck under a curse of his own—but first, she'll have to get to his castle, which has a habit of wandering around. I love this as a readaloud, on its own, or (of course) a companion piece to the equally wonderful (though often quite different) movie adaptation.”
Stinkiest! 20 Smelly Animals, by Steve Jenkins, $3.99. Can you name 20 smelly animals? I’m not sure I could without reading this fun picture book. There’s a skunk on the cover, but Jenkins introduces readers to opossoms, hoopoes, millipedes, and lots of other big and little stinkers. If your kids are into gross facts (and who isn’t?), they will have a great time with this book.
Art Before Breakfast: A Zillion Ways to be More Creative No Matter How Busy You Are, by Danny Gregory, $2.99. My daughter loves doing art and fills lots of her spare time making things. I’ve never considered myself an artist and struggle to find time to develop my skills. This book is a great place to start. Danny Gregory has created short, fun activities that take 10 minutes or less. They will encourage you to make art a regular part of your life. This book is a great way to add some art education to your homeschool, or to carve out a bit of time for your own creativity.
How Art Can Make You Happy, by Bridget Watson Payne, $1.99. A lot of homeschoolers I know have trouble working art into their education plans. This little book can help to bring some fresh ideas to your school year! With a focus on finding joy in experiencing and making art, this collection of tips, quotes, and pep talks is useful and inspiring.
The Brothers Grimm: Illuminated Fairy Tales, by The Brothers Grimm, $1.99. Occasionally you find a book that is uniquely designed for the ebook format. This collection of Grimm Fairy Tales is beautifully illustrated, with subtly animated elements! As you read, you can watch the witch threaten Hansel and Gretel. Each story is illustrated in a different artist, and you could compare and contrast their styles for a fun art lesson.
The Jane Austen Handbook, by Margaret Sullivan, $2.99. Both Austen newbies and proper Janeites will find this delightful little guidebook very useful. A light, tongue-in-cheek tone pairs well with a serious vault of knowledge about Regency England. Not sure whether a Marquis outranks a Duke? Or how rich Mr. Darcy would be in modern terms? This book will help fill in all the gaps.
Kindle Deals for October 4, 2021
Spooky books for young readers
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.
In a Dark, Dark Room and Other Scary Stories, by Alvin Schwartz, $1.99. Some kids just LOVE to be creeped out, and it’s never too early to get a delightfully spooky book into their hands. This is a collection of scary stories for beginning readers. Turn down the lights and let your child give a haunted story hour. The vibrant and twisted illustrations add to the fun.
At the Old Haunted House, by Helen Ketteman, $0.99. Get ready for a fun remake of the classic song “Over in the Meadow.” This spooky twist on a counting song will be perfect for your Halloween math lessons. Count up the monsters, cats, goblins, witches and other creatures. There are lots of classic horror characters, but don’t worry — they are all having a good time and aren’t very scary.
Lulu Goes to Witch School, by Jane O’Connor, $1.99. The little witch in this story from Fancy Nancy creator Jane O’Connor is precious. Lulu is starting witch school, where she will learn to do magic and use her broom. She loves everything about the new school, except for one kid who seems intent to show off. It’s more of a day-in-the-life story than something with an exciting plot, but the adorable illustrations and simple language make it a good choice for young readers.
Dirk Bones and the Mystery of the Haunted House, by Doug Cushman, $1.99. Meet Dirk Bones, a detective and journalist who happens to be a skeleton. When a house is filled with weird noises, it is up to Dirk to find out what is going on.
STILL ON SALE
Three Cheers for Kid McGear! by Sherri Duskey Rinker, $1.99. I’ve read Rinker’s construction site books more times than I can count. In the latest addition, Kid McGear is the newest team member looking to prove herself. Kid is smaller than the other machines, but that doesn’t mean she can’t save the day when needed!
Stella Brings the Family, by Miriam B. Schiffer, $1.99. I love it when I find a sweet story with LGBTQ+ representation. From the publisher: “Stella's class is having a Mother's Day celebration, but what's a girl with two daddies to do? It's not that she doesn't have someone who helps her with her homework, or tucks her in at night. Stella has her Papa and Daddy who take care of her, and a whole gaggle of other loved ones who make her feel special and supported every day. She just doesn't have a mom to invite to the party. Fortunately, Stella finds a unique solution to her party problem in this sweet story about love, acceptance, and the true meaning of family.”
Hippo Goes Bananas! by Marjorie Dennis Murray, $0.99. When Hippo wakes up with a bad toothache, he begins acting strangely. Cuckoo sees what he is doing and starts telling the other animals, who each slightly embellish the story. What’s really going on with Hippo, and what can they do to help? Kids will love this fun, over-the-top story.
Duck! Rabbit! by Amy Krauss Rosenthal, $0.99. This fun picture book takes its premise from a classic optical illusion. The simple story reminds the reader to consider all sides of an argument. You can also use it to start a discussion about how to present a persuasive argument with evidence.
The Ecology Book: Big Ideas Simply Explained, by DK Publishing, $1.99. This DK book is packed full of information about developments in the field of ecology, in approximately chronological order. Short sections cover basic scientific principles like evolution, heredity, food webs, mutualisms, and biodiversity. The text is a bit dense, but the frequent illustrations and diagrams help to reinforce concepts. Note: Several books in this DK series are on sale this week — don’t miss them!
The Big, Bad Book of Botany: The World’s Most Fascinating Flora, by Michael Largo, $1.99. The publisher describes this book as “David Attenborough meets Lemony Snicket,” and if that doesn’t sell you on it, I’m not sure what will. This alphabetical compendium of weird and wonderful plants is full of fascinating details and carefully drawn illustrations. There is something to fascinate readers of all ages.
Up in the Garden and Down in the Dirt, by Kate Messner, $1.99. This beautiful picture follows a garden through the seasons to see what is happening above and below the surface. Information sections about organic gardening techniques and about each of the creatures encountered in the story provide a great jumping off point for further learning.
Erosion: How Hugh Bennett Saved America’s Soil and Ended the Dust Bowl, by Darcy Pattison, $0.99. The Moments in Science series is a great choice for elementary readers! Pattison delves into the the human factors at play in major scientific discoveries. In this book, she looks at a lesser-known episode in science history: the creation of the Soil Conservation Service, which was started in the 1930s to combat severe erosion in the Dust Bowl. The fun illustrations and just the right number of words per page will make this an enjoyable read for younger kids.
The Eye of Ra, by Ben Gartner, $0.99. Action meets time travel meets ancient mythology in this exciting middle-grade read! From the publisher: “Exploring a mysterious cave in the mountains behind their house, John and his sister Sarah are shocked to discover they’ve time traveled to ancient Egypt! Now they must work together to find a way back home from an ancient civilization of golden desert sand and a towering new pyramid, without parents to save them. The adventures abound—cobras, scorpions, a tomb robber, and more! The two kids have to trust each other, make friends who can help, and survive the challenges thrown at them . . . or be stuck in ancient Egypt forever. For readers graduating from the Magic Tree House series and ready for intense action, dive into this middle grade novel rich with meticulous historical detail.”
The Grown-Up’s Guide to Teenage Humans: How to Decode Their Behavior, Develop Trust, and Raise a Respectable Adult, by Josh Shipp, $1.99. Most of us either have teens are preparing for those challenging and pivotal years. From the publisher: “In 2015, Harvard researchers found that every child who does well in the face of adversity has had at least one stable and committed relationship with a supportive adult. But Josh Shipp didn’t need Harvard to know that. Once an at-risk foster kid, he was headed straight for trouble until he met the man who changed his life: Rodney, the foster parent who refused to quit on Shipp and got him to believe in himself. Now, in The Grown-Up’s Guide to Teenage Humans, Shipp shows all of us how to be that caring adult in a teenager’s life. Stressing the need for compassion, trust, and encouragement, he breaks down the phases of a teenage human from sixth to twelfth grade, examining the changes, goals, and mentality of teenagers at each stage. Shipp offers revelatory stories that take us inside the teen brain, and shares wisdom from top professionals and the most expert grown-ups.“
The Enneagram of Parenting, by Elizabeth Wagele, $1.99. If you are new to the Enneagram personality descriptions or are curious about how you might apply them to children, this breezy primer could be the answer. Wagele describes the nine major personality types and how they are expressed in children of various ages. The book does not offer a comprehensive test to determine type, but it provides general descriptions and useful advice for common parenting issues.
Why I Love Homeschooling Neurodiverse Kids: 25 Parents Share the Joys and Challenges of Educating Their Kids Who Have ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia, Giftedness, or are Otherwise Differently Wired, by Kathy Oaks and Brynn Steimle, $0.99. It can be hard for public schools to meet the needs to neurodivergent kids. I’ve found that ND families are very well represented in homeschool groups. Kathy Oaks shares stories from parents of ND kids that highlight the challenges and great rewards of homeschooling. In this book, you’ll find real-world tips for adapting the learning environment to your child, as well as encouragement and a wide variety of perspectives. Bonus: Kathy’s other homeschooling books are also on sale this weekend! Check out Homeschoolers are not Hermits, Road Schooling, Why I Love Homeschooling, and The Homeschoolers Are Not Hermits Quick Start Guide to Homeschooling.
We are Displaced: My Journey and Stories from Refugee Girls Around the World, by Malala Yousafzai, $3.99. From the publisher: “Malala's experiences visiting refugee camps caused her to reconsider her own displacement — first as an Internally Displaced Person when she was a young child in Pakistan, and then as an international activist who could travel anywhere in the world except to the home she loved. In We Are Displaced, Malala not only explores her own story, but she also shares the personal stories of some of the incredible girls she has met on her journeys — girls who have lost their community, relatives, and often the only world they've ever known.” Best for older middle-grade readers, this book has content warnings for violence.
Pete the Cat: Falling for Autumn, by Kimberly and James Dean, $1.99. Pete is bummed out that summer is ending, but a trip around a farm helps him to see all the good things about autumn. It’s a simple story packed full of useful information about fall produce and other activities.
Flora and the Flamingo, by Molly Idle, $1.99. Another fun wordless book! Flora is a budding dancer. When she encounters a flamingo, they both learn moves from each other. The illustrations are exuberant and charming, and kids can make up the words as they go. Many will be delighted to try to recreate Flora’s dances!
Fossil, by Bill Thomson, $0.99. This book is a great language arts opportunity! The story is told through vivid illustrations, but without words. Kids can create their own narrative about a child who discovers a fossil on the beach that comes to life when touched. At first, this is exciting, but when a pterodactyl carries away a dog, the kid must figure out how to return the creatures to their fossil state.
Ender’s World: Fresh Perspectives on the SF Classic Ender’s Game, by Orson Scott Card and others, $3.99. Ender’s Game (not so much the sequels) is a masterpiece of YA literature, and a touchstone for many gifted kids. This collection of essays from big names in literature and and even military strategists offers a deeper dive into the Ender’s universe.
The Testing, by Joelle Charbonneau, $1.99. Calling all fans of The Hunger Games or Divergent! This series should scratch that dystopian coming-of-age itch. Here’s a summary from the publisher: “It’s graduation day for sixteen-year-old Malencia Vale, and the entire Five Lakes Colony (the former Great Lakes) is celebrating. All Cia can think about—hope for—is whether she’ll be chosen for The Testing, a United Commonwealth program that selects the best and brightest new graduates to become possible leaders of the slowly revitalizing post-war civilization. When Cia is chosen, her father finally tells her about his own nightmarish half-memories of The Testing. Armed with his dire warnings (“Cia, trust no one”), she bravely heads off to Tosu City, far away from friends and family, perhaps forever. Danger, romance—and sheer terror—await.”
Howl’s Moving Castle, by Diana Wynne Jones, $3.50. Amy used this book and others to create a massive Studio Ghibli unit study. Here is her review: “Sometimes a curse can be just what you needed, as Sophie discovers in this delightful fantasy about a hat maker's daughter who's cursed to premature old age by the Witch of the Waste. To break the curse, Sophie will need to team up with the mysterious wizard Howl, who happens to be stuck under a curse of his own—but first, she'll have to get to his castle, which has a habit of wandering around. I love this as a readaloud, on its own, or (of course) a companion piece to the equally wonderful (though often quite different) movie adaptation.”
Stinkiest! 20 Smelly Animals, by Steve Jenkins, $3.99. Can you name 20 smelly animals? I’m not sure I could without reading this fun picture book. There’s a skunk on the cover, but Jenkins introduces readers to opossoms, hoopoes, millipedes, and lots of other big and little stinkers. If your kids are into gross facts (and who isn’t?), they will have a great time with this book.
Art Before Breakfast: A Zillion Ways to be More Creative No Matter How Busy You Are, by Danny Gregory, $2.99. My daughter loves doing art and fills lots of her spare time making things. I’ve never considered myself an artist and struggle to find time to develop my skills. This book is a great place to start. Danny Gregory has created short, fun activities that take 10 minutes or less. They will encourage you to make art a regular part of your life. This book is a great way to add some art education to your homeschool, or to carve out a bit of time for your own creativity.
How Art Can Make You Happy, by Bridget Watson Payne, $1.99. A lot of homeschoolers I know have trouble working art into their education plans. This little book can help to bring some fresh ideas to your school year! With a focus on finding joy in experiencing and making art, this collection of tips, quotes, and pep talks is useful and inspiring.
The Brothers Grimm: Illuminated Fairy Tales, by The Brothers Grimm, $1.99. Occasionally you find a book that is uniquely designed for the ebook format. This collection of Grimm Fairy Tales is beautifully illustrated, with subtly animated elements! As you read, you can watch the witch threaten Hansel and Gretel. Each story is illustrated in a different artist, and you could compare and contrast their styles for a fun art lesson.
The Jane Austen Handbook, by Margaret Sullivan, $2.99. Both Austen newbies and proper Janeites will find this delightful little guidebook very useful. A light, tongue-in-cheek tone pairs well with a serious vault of knowledge about Regency England. Not sure whether a Marquis outranks a Duke? Or how rich Mr. Darcy would be in modern terms? This book will help fill in all the gaps.
Kindle Deals for September 30, 2021
Picture book fun!
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.
Duck! Rabbit! by Amy Krauss Rosenthal, $0.99. This fun picture book takes its premise from a classic optical illusion. The simple story reminds the reader to consider all sides of an argument. You can also use it to start a discussion about how to present a persuasive argument with evidence.
Hippo Goes Bananas! by Marjorie Dennis Murray, $0.99. When Hippo wakes up with a bad toothache, he begins acting strangely. Cuckoo sees what he is doing and starts telling the other animals, who each slightly embellish the story. What’s really going on with Hippo, and what can they do to help? Kids will love this fun, over-the-top story.
Stella Brings the Family, by Miriam B. Schiffer, $1.99. I love it when I find a sweet story with LGBTQ+ representation. From the publisher: “Stella's class is having a Mother's Day celebration, but what's a girl with two daddies to do? It's not that she doesn't have someone who helps her with her homework, or tucks her in at night. Stella has her Papa and Daddy who take care of her, and a whole gaggle of other loved ones who make her feel special and supported every day. She just doesn't have a mom to invite to the party. Fortunately, Stella finds a unique solution to her party problem in this sweet story about love, acceptance, and the true meaning of family.”
Three Cheers for Kid McGear! by Sherri Duskey Rinker, $1.99. I’ve read Rinker’s construction site books more times than I can count. In the latest addition, Kid McGear is the newest team member looking to prove herself. Kid is smaller than the other machines, but that doesn’t mean she can’t save the day when needed!
STILL ON SALE
The Ecology Book: Big Ideas Simply Explained, by DK Publishing, $1.99. This DK book is packed full of information about developments in the field of ecology, in approximately chronological order. Short sections cover basic scientific principles like evolution, heredity, food webs, mutualisms, and biodiversity. The text is a bit dense, but the frequent illustrations and diagrams help to reinforce concepts. Note: Several books in this DK series are on sale this week — don’t miss them!
The Big, Bad Book of Botany: The World’s Most Fascinating Flora, by Michael Largo, $1.99. The publisher describes this book as “David Attenborough meets Lemony Snicket,” and if that doesn’t sell you on it, I’m not sure what will. This alphabetical compendium of weird and wonderful plants is full of fascinating details and carefully drawn illustrations. There is something to fascinate readers of all ages.
Up in the Garden and Down in the Dirt, by Kate Messner, $1.99. This beautiful picture follows a garden through the seasons to see what is happening above and below the surface. Information sections about organic gardening techniques and about each of the creatures encountered in the story provide a great jumping off point for further learning.
Erosion: How Hugh Bennett Saved America’s Soil and Ended the Dust Bowl, by Darcy Pattison, $0.99. The Moments in Science series is a great choice for elementary readers! Pattison delves into the the human factors at play in major scientific discoveries. In this book, she looks at a lesser-known episode in science history: the creation of the Soil Conservation Service, which was started in the 1930s to combat severe erosion in the Dust Bowl. The fun illustrations and just the right number of words per page will make this an enjoyable read for younger kids.
The Eye of Ra, by Ben Gartner, $0.99. Action meets time travel meets ancient mythology in this exciting middle-grade read! From the publisher: “Exploring a mysterious cave in the mountains behind their house, John and his sister Sarah are shocked to discover they’ve time traveled to ancient Egypt! Now they must work together to find a way back home from an ancient civilization of golden desert sand and a towering new pyramid, without parents to save them. The adventures abound—cobras, scorpions, a tomb robber, and more! The two kids have to trust each other, make friends who can help, and survive the challenges thrown at them . . . or be stuck in ancient Egypt forever. For readers graduating from the Magic Tree House series and ready for intense action, dive into this middle grade novel rich with meticulous historical detail.”
Crenshaw, by Katherine Applegate, $2.99. Crenshaw is the magical story of an imaginary friend helping a boy through a very tough family situation. Jackson had an imaginary friend when he was younger, but he hasn’t seen Crenshaw in years. But when his dad is diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, money gets really tight and the family is in danger of losing their home. Jackson’s not sure whether Crenshaw’s reappearance is a good thing, but it might be just what he needs. This sweet book tackles some tough topics. We have a more detailed review here.
Greetings from Witness Protection! by Jake Burt, $2.99. This funny, middle-grade novel has a unique premise! Nicki knows her way around the low… from both sides. When the U.S. Marshalls recruit her to work for them, she is off on an unexpected adventure. She must pose as a family’s teen daughter and use her street smarts to help keep the family safe. You’ll find a bit of action, a bit of heartfelt drama, and a lot of humor in this fun debut novel.
The Grown-Up’s Guide to Teenage Humans: How to Decode Their Behavior, Develop Trust, and Raise a Respectable Adult, by Josh Shipp, $1.99. Most of us either have teens are preparing for those challenging and pivotal years. From the publisher: “In 2015, Harvard researchers found that every child who does well in the face of adversity has had at least one stable and committed relationship with a supportive adult. But Josh Shipp didn’t need Harvard to know that. Once an at-risk foster kid, he was headed straight for trouble until he met the man who changed his life: Rodney, the foster parent who refused to quit on Shipp and got him to believe in himself. Now, in The Grown-Up’s Guide to Teenage Humans, Shipp shows all of us how to be that caring adult in a teenager’s life. Stressing the need for compassion, trust, and encouragement, he breaks down the phases of a teenage human from sixth to twelfth grade, examining the changes, goals, and mentality of teenagers at each stage. Shipp offers revelatory stories that take us inside the teen brain, and shares wisdom from top professionals and the most expert grown-ups.“
The Enneagram of Parenting, by Elizabeth Wagele, $1.99. If you are new to the Enneagram personality descriptions or are curious about how you might apply them to children, this breezy primer could be the answer. Wagele describes the nine major personality types and how they are expressed in children of various ages. The book does not offer a comprehensive test to determine type, but it provides general descriptions and useful advice for common parenting issues.
On Teaching Science: Principles and Strategies That Every Educator Should Know, by Jeffrey Bennett, $1.99. This book is geared more towards classroom teachers, but it is still filled with lots of useful tips on presenting scientific information. Bennett focuses heavily on growth mindset and the role of failure and perseverance in the scientific method. Bennett’s enthusiasm for science communication will inspire teachers to bring a fresh perspective to their lessons. While science-focused, the strategies are cross-curricular and can be applied to many topics.
Why I Love Homeschooling Neurodiverse Kids: 25 Parents Share the Joys and Challenges of Educating Their Kids Who Have ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia, Giftedness, or are Otherwise Differently Wired, by Kathy Oaks and Brynn Steimle, $0.99. It can be hard for public schools to meet the needs to neurodivergent kids. I’ve found that ND families are very well represented in homeschool groups. Kathy Oaks shares stories from parents of ND kids that highlight the challenges and great rewards of homeschooling. In this book, you’ll find real-world tips for adapting the learning environment to your child, as well as encouragement and a wide variety of perspectives. Bonus: Kathy’s other homeschooling books are also on sale this weekend! Check out Homeschoolers are not Hermits, Road Schooling, Why I Love Homeschooling, and The Homeschoolers Are Not Hermits Quick Start Guide to Homeschooling.
The Other Side: Stories of Central American Teen Refugees Who Dream of Crossing the Border, by Juan Pablo Villalobos, $2.99. Villalobos has collected the stories of 11 teens who have made the journey from Central America to the U.S. Each story vividly depicts the hardships the children faced in their home countries and the difficult conditions of both the voyage and the time spent in processing at the border. These first-person accounts are an excellent introduction to issues of immigration and asylum-seeking.
We are Displaced: My Journey and Stories from Refugee Girls Around the World, by Malala Yousafzai, $3.99. From the publisher: “Malala's experiences visiting refugee camps caused her to reconsider her own displacement — first as an Internally Displaced Person when she was a young child in Pakistan, and then as an international activist who could travel anywhere in the world except to the home she loved. In We Are Displaced, Malala not only explores her own story, but she also shares the personal stories of some of the incredible girls she has met on her journeys — girls who have lost their community, relatives, and often the only world they've ever known.” Best for older middle-grade readers, this book has content warnings for violence.
Pete the Cat: Falling for Autumn, by Kimberly and James Dean, $1.99. Pete is bummed out that summer is ending, but a trip around a farm helps him to see all the good things about autumn. It’s a simple story packed full of useful information about fall produce and other activities.
Flora and the Flamingo, by Molly Idle, $1.99. Another fun wordless book! Flora is a budding dancer. When she encounters a flamingo, they both learn moves from each other. The illustrations are exuberant and charming, and kids can make up the words as they go. Many will be delighted to try to recreate Flora’s dances!
Hello Hello, by Brendan Wenzel, $1.99. I love Wenzel’s other book, They All Saw a Cat, which is all about differences in perception. Hello Hello is another great book about animals. Each page has a new animal that is connected to the previous animal by a shared trait (color, physical feature, etc.). The text is simple, but the concept is fodder for some great discussions! There’s an excellent conservation message at the end, along with a list of all the animals featured and their conservation statuses.
Fossil, by Bill Thomson, $0.99. This book is a great language arts opportunity! The story is told through vivid illustrations, but without words. Kids can create their own narrative about a child who discovers a fossil on the beach that comes to life when touched. At first, this is exciting, but when a pterodactyl carries away a dog, the kid must figure out how to return the creatures to their fossil state.
Bomb: The Race to Build — and Steal — the World’s Most Dangerous Weapon, by Steve Sheinkin, $2.99. Sheinkin writes great, engaging nonfiction books for younger readers, and Bomb is no exception. Here he tells the story of the German efforts to build an atomic bomb, and the rest of the world’s attempts to harness the new and powerful technology for themselves before the Germans had a chance to use it. There are spies, scientist, battles, and lots of intrigue in this middle grade/YA history.
Spare Parts: Four Undocumented Teenagers, One Ugly Robot, and the Battle for the American Dream, by Joshua Davis, $3.99. What a tremendous story! When a group of teens decides to enter a prestigious robotics competition, they are at a major disadvantage. They don’t have corporate sponsors or money to buy materials, and they need to keep a lower profile because all of them are undocumented. Through an incredible amount of perseverance, the team is able to successfully compete with their robot made primarily of scavenged and repurposed parts. There’s also a pretty good movie based on the same true story.
Ender’s World: Fresh Perspectives on the SF Classic Ender’s Game, by Orson Scott Card and others, $3.99. Ender’s Game (not so much the sequels) is a masterpiece of YA literature, and a touchstone for many gifted kids. This collection of essays from big names in literature and and even military strategists offers a deeper dive into the Ender’s universe.
The Testing, by Joelle Charbonneau, $1.99. Calling all fans of The Hunger Games or Divergent! This series should scratch that dystopian coming-of-age itch. Here’s a summary from the publisher: “It’s graduation day for sixteen-year-old Malencia Vale, and the entire Five Lakes Colony (the former Great Lakes) is celebrating. All Cia can think about—hope for—is whether she’ll be chosen for The Testing, a United Commonwealth program that selects the best and brightest new graduates to become possible leaders of the slowly revitalizing post-war civilization. When Cia is chosen, her father finally tells her about his own nightmarish half-memories of The Testing. Armed with his dire warnings (“Cia, trust no one”), she bravely heads off to Tosu City, far away from friends and family, perhaps forever. Danger, romance—and sheer terror—await.”
Howl’s Moving Castle, by Diana Wynne Jones, $3.50. Amy used this book and others to create a massive Studio Ghibli unit study. Here is her review: “Sometimes a curse can be just what you needed, as Sophie discovers in this delightful fantasy about a hat maker's daughter who's cursed to premature old age by the Witch of the Waste. To break the curse, Sophie will need to team up with the mysterious wizard Howl, who happens to be stuck under a curse of his own—but first, she'll have to get to his castle, which has a habit of wandering around. I love this as a readaloud, on its own, or (of course) a companion piece to the equally wonderful (though often quite different) movie adaptation.”
Stinkiest! 20 Smelly Animals, by Steve Jenkins, $3.99. Can you name 20 smelly animals? I’m not sure I could without reading this fun picture book. There’s a skunk on the cover, but Jenkins introduces readers to opossoms, hoopoes, millipedes, and lots of other big and little stinkers. If your kids are into gross facts (and who isn’t?), they will have a great time with this book.
Art Before Breakfast: A Zillion Ways to be More Creative No Matter How Busy You Are, by Danny Gregory, $2.99. My daughter loves doing art and fills lots of her spare time making things. I’ve never considered myself an artist and struggle to find time to develop my skills. This book is a great place to start. Danny Gregory has created short, fun activities that take 10 minutes or less. They will encourage you to make art a regular part of your life. This book is a great way to add some art education to your homeschool, or to carve out a bit of time for your own creativity.
How Art Can Make You Happy, by Bridget Watson Payne, $1.99. A lot of homeschoolers I know have trouble working art into their education plans. This little book can help to bring some fresh ideas to your school year! With a focus on finding joy in experiencing and making art, this collection of tips, quotes, and pep talks is useful and inspiring.
The Brothers Grimm: Illuminated Fairy Tales, by The Brothers Grimm, $1.99. Occasionally you find a book that is uniquely designed for the ebook format. This collection of Grimm Fairy Tales is beautifully illustrated, with subtly animated elements! As you read, you can watch the witch threaten Hansel and Gretel. Each story is illustrated in a different artist, and you could compare and contrast their styles for a fun art lesson.
The Jane Austen Handbook, by Margaret Sullivan, $2.99. Both Austen newbies and proper Janeites will find this delightful little guidebook very useful. A light, tongue-in-cheek tone pairs well with a serious vault of knowledge about Regency England. Not sure whether a Marquis outranks a Duke? Or how rich Mr. Darcy would be in modern terms? This book will help fill in all the gaps.
Who is Greta Thunberg? by Jill Leonard, $4.99. Get to know Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg in this elementary biography. From the publisher: “When she was just fifteen years old, Greta Thunberg knew she wanted to change the world. With a hand-painted sign that read "School strike for the climate" in Swedish, Greta sat alone on the steps of the Swedish parliament to call for stronger action on climate change. Her one-person strike would soon spark a worldwide movement. This exciting story details the defining moments in Greta's childhood that led up to her now-famous strike and all the monumental ones that have fueled her revolution since, including being named Time's Most Influential Person of the Year in 2019.”
Molecules: The Elements and Architecture of Everything, by Theodore Gray, $0.99. If you’ve already gotten to know the periodic elements, it is time to step up to learning about molecules. Theodore Gray starts by explaining the basics of bonding and how bond types affect physical structure. The rest of the book is made up of profiles of different compounds, detailing their composition, usage, and history. As in all of Gray’s books, there are copious detailed photo illustrations.
Ripped From the Headlines: The Shocking True Stories Behind the Movies’ Most Memorable Crimes, by Harold Schechter, $1.99. So many of the plotlines from famous movies have been taken from true-life events. Historian Harold Schechter reveals all the fascinating stories behind films like Scream, Psycho, and Dirty Harry. This is a fun exploration for true crime fans and movie buffs alike!
Tasting the World: One Country at a Time, by Nicole O’Donnell, $2.99. This book is so cool! O’Donnell has collected recipes from more than 200 countries. I wish there were pictures, but I do appreciate her ratings system for ease of preparation, availability of ingredients, and degree of divergence from American flavor profiles. Pair this book with your geography lessons for a delicious enrichment.
Recipes from the World of Tolkein: Inspired by the Legends, by Robert Tuesley Anderson, $1.99. Supplement your reading to The Lord of the Rings with some “authentic” recipes! This small volume has many recipes (Brandywine Fish Pie, Beorn’s Twice-Baked Cakes) and beautiful watercolor illustrations. Essays about the importance of food in Middle Earth make for delicious reading.
The Classical Music Book, by DK Publishing, $1.99. This book is overflowing with music history information. Inside, you’ll find details about famous (and less famous) composers, instruments, musical styles, and much much more.
Nicola and the Viscount, by Meg Cabot, $1.99. Meg Cabot, who you may know from The Princess Diaries, is back with a historical YA romance. Here’s the publisher’s description: “Nicola Sparks, sixteen and an orphan, is ready to dive headlong into her first glittering London society season. She's also ready to dive headlong into the arms of handsome and debonair Lord Sebastian Bartholomew. Nicola's dream is a proposal from the viscount—a dream she's about to realize at last! So naturally, Nathaniel Sheridan's insinuations about her fiancé's flawed character annoy her mightily. But when Nicola's natural curiosity gets the best of her, she begins to piece together a few things for herself. To her great surprise, Nicola realizes she's had the wrong viscount all along . . . but is it too late to make things right?”
Her Right Foot, by Dave Eggers, $2.99. This beautiful picture book takes a look at the history of the Statue of Liberty. More than that, Eggers uses the statue to address the inherent freedoms that form the basis of American culture and government. Shawn Harris’s mixed-media illustrations are simple but visually interesting.
Kindle Deals for September 29, 2021
Sci-fi and fantasy picks for all ages!
Today's Best Book Deals for Your Homeschool
(Prices are correct as of the time of writing, but y'all know sales move fast — check before you click the buy button! These are Amazon links — read more about how we use affiliate links to help support some of the costs of the HSL blog here.)
Never miss a deal! Sign up for an email notification every time we post here.
Skyward, by Brandon Sanderson, $2.99. Reviews of this dystopian YA sci-fi novel compare it to a high-flying video game. Spensa has dreamed of being a pilot ever since her father was killed in action. Because a cloud of controversy surrounds his final actions, Spensa worries that the establishment won’t give her a fair try. But finding mysterious wreckage may give her the chance she needs.
Bloom, by Kenneth Oppel, $1.99. Kenneth Oppel writes inventive, engaging science fiction for middle grade readers. Bloom continues in this vein, with an action-packed tale of survival. From the publisher: “The invasion begins--but not as you'd expect. It begins with rain. Rain that carries seeds. Seeds that sprout--overnight, everywhere. These new plants take over crop fields, twine up houses, and burrow below streets. They bloom--and release toxic pollens. They bloom--and form Venus flytrap-like pods that swallow animals and people. They bloom--everywhere, unstoppable. Or are they? Three kids on a remote island seem immune to the toxic plants. Anaya, Petra, Seth. They each have strange allergies--and yet not to these plants. What's their secret? Can they somehow be the key to beating back this invasion? They'd better figure it out fast, because it's starting to rain again...”
Dragons in a Bag, by Zetta Elliott, $1.99. Urban fantasy books for younger readers are hard to come by, so I was delighted to find this Brookyln-based novel with a diverse cast of characters. Jax and his friends Vikram and Kavita are tasked with delivery a bag of dragons, but things go amusingly wrong.
Eragon, by Christopher Paolini, $1.99. Eragon is a remarkable fantasy novel created by a 15-year-old homeschooler! Join Eragon and his dragon, Saphira, in this sweeping series. When Eragon discovers a dragon egg, he has no idea it will lead him to adventure, political intrigue, and war. The books in this series are substantial and complicated, good for kids who are transitioning between middle grade and YA.
STILL ON SALE
The Ecology Book: Big Ideas Simply Explained, by DK Publishing, $1.99. This DK book is packed full of information about developments in the field of ecology, in approximately chronological order. Short sections cover basic scientific principles like evolution, heredity, food webs, mutualisms, and biodiversity. The text is a bit dense, but the frequent illustrations and diagrams help to reinforce concepts. Note: Several books in this DK series are on sale this week — don’t miss them!
The Big, Bad Book of Botany: The World’s Most Fascinating Flora, by Michael Largo, $1.99. The publisher describes this book as “David Attenborough meets Lemony Snicket,” and if that doesn’t sell you on it, I’m not sure what will. This alphabetical compendium of weird and wonderful plants is full of fascinating details and carefully drawn illustrations. There is something to fascinate readers of all ages.
Up in the Garden and Down in the Dirt, by Kate Messner, $1.99. This beautiful picture follows a garden through the seasons to see what is happening above and below the surface. Information sections about organic gardening techniques and about each of the creatures encountered in the story provide a great jumping off point for further learning.
Erosion: How Hugh Bennett Saved America’s Soil and Ended the Dust Bowl, by Darcy Pattison, $0.99. The Moments in Science series is a great choice for elementary readers! Pattison delves into the the human factors at play in major scientific discoveries. In this book, she looks at a lesser-known episode in science history: the creation of the Soil Conservation Service, which was started in the 1930s to combat severe erosion in the Dust Bowl. The fun illustrations and just the right number of words per page will make this an enjoyable read for younger kids.
The Eye of Ra, by Ben Gartner, $0.99. Action meets time travel meets ancient mythology in this exciting middle-grade read! From the publisher: “Exploring a mysterious cave in the mountains behind their house, John and his sister Sarah are shocked to discover they’ve time traveled to ancient Egypt! Now they must work together to find a way back home from an ancient civilization of golden desert sand and a towering new pyramid, without parents to save them. The adventures abound—cobras, scorpions, a tomb robber, and more! The two kids have to trust each other, make friends who can help, and survive the challenges thrown at them . . . or be stuck in ancient Egypt forever. For readers graduating from the Magic Tree House series and ready for intense action, dive into this middle grade novel rich with meticulous historical detail.”
Crenshaw, by Katherine Applegate, $2.99. Crenshaw is the magical story of an imaginary friend helping a boy through a very tough family situation. Jackson had an imaginary friend when he was younger, but he hasn’t seen Crenshaw in years. But when his dad is diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, money gets really tight and the family is in danger of losing their home. Jackson’s not sure whether Crenshaw’s reappearance is a good thing, but it might be just what he needs. This sweet book tackles some tough topics. We have a more detailed review here.
Greetings from Witness Protection! by Jake Burt, $2.99. This funny, middle-grade novel has a unique premise! Nicki knows her way around the low… from both sides. When the U.S. Marshalls recruit her to work for them, she is off on an unexpected adventure. She must pose as a family’s teen daughter and use her street smarts to help keep the family safe. You’ll find a bit of action, a bit of heartfelt drama, and a lot of humor in this fun debut novel.
The Grown-Up’s Guide to Teenage Humans: How to Decode Their Behavior, Develop Trust, and Raise a Respectable Adult, by Josh Shipp, $1.99. Most of us either have teens are preparing for those challenging and pivotal years. From the publisher: “In 2015, Harvard researchers found that every child who does well in the face of adversity has had at least one stable and committed relationship with a supportive adult. But Josh Shipp didn’t need Harvard to know that. Once an at-risk foster kid, he was headed straight for trouble until he met the man who changed his life: Rodney, the foster parent who refused to quit on Shipp and got him to believe in himself. Now, in The Grown-Up’s Guide to Teenage Humans, Shipp shows all of us how to be that caring adult in a teenager’s life. Stressing the need for compassion, trust, and encouragement, he breaks down the phases of a teenage human from sixth to twelfth grade, examining the changes, goals, and mentality of teenagers at each stage. Shipp offers revelatory stories that take us inside the teen brain, and shares wisdom from top professionals and the most expert grown-ups.“
The Enneagram of Parenting, by Elizabeth Wagele, $1.99. If you are new to the Enneagram personality descriptions or are curious about how you might apply them to children, this breezy primer could be the answer. Wagele describes the nine major personality types and how they are expressed in children of various ages. The book does not offer a comprehensive test to determine type, but it provides general descriptions and useful advice for common parenting issues.
On Teaching Science: Principles and Strategies That Every Educator Should Know, by Jeffrey Bennett, $1.99. This book is geared more towards classroom teachers, but it is still filled with lots of useful tips on presenting scientific information. Bennett focuses heavily on growth mindset and the role of failure and perseverance in the scientific method. Bennett’s enthusiasm for science communication will inspire teachers to bring a fresh perspective to their lessons. While science-focused, the strategies are cross-curricular and can be applied to many topics.
Why I Love Homeschooling Neurodiverse Kids: 25 Parents Share the Joys and Challenges of Educating Their Kids Who Have ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia, Giftedness, or are Otherwise Differently Wired, by Kathy Oaks and Brynn Steimle, $0.99. It can be hard for public schools to meet the needs to neurodivergent kids. I’ve found that ND families are very well represented in homeschool groups. Kathy Oaks shares stories from parents of ND kids that highlight the challenges and great rewards of homeschooling. In this book, you’ll find real-world tips for adapting the learning environment to your child, as well as encouragement and a wide variety of perspectives. Bonus: Kathy’s other homeschooling books are also on sale this weekend! Check out Homeschoolers are not Hermits, Road Schooling, Why I Love Homeschooling, and The Homeschoolers Are Not Hermits Quick Start Guide to Homeschooling.
The Other Side: Stories of Central American Teen Refugees Who Dream of Crossing the Border, by Juan Pablo Villalobos, $2.99. Villalobos has collected the stories of 11 teens who have made the journey from Central America to the U.S. Each story vividly depicts the hardships the children faced in their home countries and the difficult conditions of both the voyage and the time spent in processing at the border. These first-person accounts are an excellent introduction to issues of immigration and asylum-seeking.
We are Displaced: My Journey and Stories from Refugee Girls Around the World, by Malala Yousafzai, $3.99. From the publisher: “Malala's experiences visiting refugee camps caused her to reconsider her own displacement — first as an Internally Displaced Person when she was a young child in Pakistan, and then as an international activist who could travel anywhere in the world except to the home she loved. In We Are Displaced, Malala not only explores her own story, but she also shares the personal stories of some of the incredible girls she has met on her journeys — girls who have lost their community, relatives, and often the only world they've ever known.” Best for older middle-grade readers, this book has content warnings for violence.
Pete the Cat: Falling for Autumn, by Kimberly and James Dean, $1.99. Pete is bummed out that summer is ending, but a trip around a farm helps him to see all the good things about autumn. It’s a simple story packed full of useful information about fall produce and other activities.
Flora and the Flamingo, by Molly Idle, $1.99. Another fun wordless book! Flora is a budding dancer. When she encounters a flamingo, they both learn moves from each other. The illustrations are exuberant and charming, and kids can make up the words as they go. Many will be delighted to try to recreate Flora’s dances!
Hello Hello, by Brendan Wenzel, $1.99. I love Wenzel’s other book, They All Saw a Cat, which is all about differences in perception. Hello Hello is another great book about animals. Each page has a new animal that is connected to the previous animal by a shared trait (color, physical feature, etc.). The text is simple, but the concept is fodder for some great discussions! There’s an excellent conservation message at the end, along with a list of all the animals featured and their conservation statuses.
Fossil, by Bill Thomson, $0.99. This book is a great language arts opportunity! The story is told through vivid illustrations, but without words. Kids can create their own narrative about a child who discovers a fossil on the beach that comes to life when touched. At first, this is exciting, but when a pterodactyl carries away a dog, the kid must figure out how to return the creatures to their fossil state.
Bomb: The Race to Build — and Steal — the World’s Most Dangerous Weapon, by Steve Sheinkin, $2.99. Sheinkin writes great, engaging nonfiction books for younger readers, and Bomb is no exception. Here he tells the story of the German efforts to build an atomic bomb, and the rest of the world’s attempts to harness the new and powerful technology for themselves before the Germans had a chance to use it. There are spies, scientist, battles, and lots of intrigue in this middle grade/YA history.
Spare Parts: Four Undocumented Teenagers, One Ugly Robot, and the Battle for the American Dream, by Joshua Davis, $3.99. What a tremendous story! When a group of teens decides to enter a prestigious robotics competition, they are at a major disadvantage. They don’t have corporate sponsors or money to buy materials, and they need to keep a lower profile because all of them are undocumented. Through an incredible amount of perseverance, the team is able to successfully compete with their robot made primarily of scavenged and repurposed parts. There’s also a pretty good movie based on the same true story.
Ender’s World: Fresh Perspectives on the SF Classic Ender’s Game, by Orson Scott Card and others, $3.99. Ender’s Game (not so much the sequels) is a masterpiece of YA literature, and a touchstone for many gifted kids. This collection of essays from big names in literature and and even military strategists offers a deeper dive into the Ender’s universe.
The Testing, by Joelle Charbonneau, $1.99. Calling all fans of The Hunger Games or Divergent! This series should scratch that dystopian coming-of-age itch. Here’s a summary from the publisher: “It’s graduation day for sixteen-year-old Malencia Vale, and the entire Five Lakes Colony (the former Great Lakes) is celebrating. All Cia can think about—hope for—is whether she’ll be chosen for The Testing, a United Commonwealth program that selects the best and brightest new graduates to become possible leaders of the slowly revitalizing post-war civilization. When Cia is chosen, her father finally tells her about his own nightmarish half-memories of The Testing. Armed with his dire warnings (“Cia, trust no one”), she bravely heads off to Tosu City, far away from friends and family, perhaps forever. Danger, romance—and sheer terror—await.”
Howl’s Moving Castle, by Diana Wynne Jones, $3.50. Amy used this book and others to create a massive Studio Ghibli unit study. Here is her review: “Sometimes a curse can be just what you needed, as Sophie discovers in this delightful fantasy about a hat maker's daughter who's cursed to premature old age by the Witch of the Waste. To break the curse, Sophie will need to team up with the mysterious wizard Howl, who happens to be stuck under a curse of his own—but first, she'll have to get to his castle, which has a habit of wandering around. I love this as a readaloud, on its own, or (of course) a companion piece to the equally wonderful (though often quite different) movie adaptation.”
Stinkiest! 20 Smelly Animals, by Steve Jenkins, $3.99. Can you name 20 smelly animals? I’m not sure I could without reading this fun picture book. There’s a skunk on the cover, but Jenkins introduces readers to opossoms, hoopoes, millipedes, and lots of other big and little stinkers. If your kids are into gross facts (and who isn’t?), they will have a great time with this book.
Art Before Breakfast: A Zillion Ways to be More Creative No Matter How Busy You Are, by Danny Gregory, $2.99. My daughter loves doing art and fills lots of her spare time making things. I’ve never considered myself an artist and struggle to find time to develop my skills. This book is a great place to start. Danny Gregory has created short, fun activities that take 10 minutes or less. They will encourage you to make art a regular part of your life. This book is a great way to add some art education to your homeschool, or to carve out a bit of time for your own creativity.
How Art Can Make You Happy, by Bridget Watson Payne, $1.99. A lot of homeschoolers I know have trouble working art into their education plans. This little book can help to bring some fresh ideas to your school year! With a focus on finding joy in experiencing and making art, this collection of tips, quotes, and pep talks is useful and inspiring.
The Brothers Grimm: Illuminated Fairy Tales, by The Brothers Grimm, $1.99. Occasionally you find a book that is uniquely designed for the ebook format. This collection of Grimm Fairy Tales is beautifully illustrated, with subtly animated elements! As you read, you can watch the witch threaten Hansel and Gretel. Each story is illustrated in a different artist, and you could compare and contrast their styles for a fun art lesson.
The Jane Austen Handbook, by Margaret Sullivan, $2.99. Both Austen newbies and proper Janeites will find this delightful little guidebook very useful. A light, tongue-in-cheek tone pairs well with a serious vault of knowledge about Regency England. Not sure whether a Marquis outranks a Duke? Or how rich Mr. Darcy would be in modern terms? This book will help fill in all the gaps.
Who is Greta Thunberg? by Jill Leonard, $4.99. Get to know Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg in this elementary biography. From the publisher: “When she was just fifteen years old, Greta Thunberg knew she wanted to change the world. With a hand-painted sign that read "School strike for the climate" in Swedish, Greta sat alone on the steps of the Swedish parliament to call for stronger action on climate change. Her one-person strike would soon spark a worldwide movement. This exciting story details the defining moments in Greta's childhood that led up to her now-famous strike and all the monumental ones that have fueled her revolution since, including being named Time's Most Influential Person of the Year in 2019.”
Molecules: The Elements and Architecture of Everything, by Theodore Gray, $0.99. If you’ve already gotten to know the periodic elements, it is time to step up to learning about molecules. Theodore Gray starts by explaining the basics of bonding and how bond types affect physical structure. The rest of the book is made up of profiles of different compounds, detailing their composition, usage, and history. As in all of Gray’s books, there are copious detailed photo illustrations.
Ripped From the Headlines: The Shocking True Stories Behind the Movies’ Most Memorable Crimes, by Harold Schechter, $1.99. So many of the plotlines from famous movies have been taken from true-life events. Historian Harold Schechter reveals all the fascinating stories behind films like Scream, Psycho, and Dirty Harry. This is a fun exploration for true crime fans and movie buffs alike!
Tasting the World: One Country at a Time, by Nicole O’Donnell, $2.99. This book is so cool! O’Donnell has collected recipes from more than 200 countries. I wish there were pictures, but I do appreciate her ratings system for ease of preparation, availability of ingredients, and degree of divergence from American flavor profiles. Pair this book with your geography lessons for a delicious enrichment.
Recipes from the World of Tolkein: Inspired by the Legends, by Robert Tuesley Anderson, $1.99. Supplement your reading to The Lord of the Rings with some “authentic” recipes! This small volume has many recipes (Brandywine Fish Pie, Beorn’s Twice-Baked Cakes) and beautiful watercolor illustrations. Essays about the importance of food in Middle Earth make for delicious reading.
The Classical Music Book, by DK Publishing, $1.99. This book is overflowing with music history information. Inside, you’ll find details about famous (and less famous) composers, instruments, musical styles, and much much more.
Nicola and the Viscount, by Meg Cabot, $1.99. Meg Cabot, who you may know from The Princess Diaries, is back with a historical YA romance. Here’s the publisher’s description: “Nicola Sparks, sixteen and an orphan, is ready to dive headlong into her first glittering London society season. She's also ready to dive headlong into the arms of handsome and debonair Lord Sebastian Bartholomew. Nicola's dream is a proposal from the viscount—a dream she's about to realize at last! So naturally, Nathaniel Sheridan's insinuations about her fiancé's flawed character annoy her mightily. But when Nicola's natural curiosity gets the best of her, she begins to piece together a few things for herself. To her great surprise, Nicola realizes she's had the wrong viscount all along . . . but is it too late to make things right?”
Her Right Foot, by Dave Eggers, $2.99. This beautiful picture book takes a look at the history of the Statue of Liberty. More than that, Eggers uses the statue to address the inherent freedoms that form the basis of American culture and government. Shawn Harris’s mixed-media illustrations are simple but visually interesting.
Kindle Deals for September 14, 2021
Books about ecology and nature
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.
Erosion: How Hugh Bennett Saved America’s Soil and Ended the Dust Bowl, by Darcy Pattison, $0.99. The Moments in Science series is a great choice for elementary readers! Pattison delves into the the human factors at play in major scientific discoveries. In this book, she looks at a lesser-known episode in science history: the creation of the Soil Conservation Service, which was started in the 1930s to combat severe erosion in the Dust Bowl. The fun illustrations and just the right number of words per page will make this an enjoyable read for younger kids.
Up in the Garden and Down in the Dirt, by Kate Messner, $1.99. This beautiful picture follows a garden through the seasons to see what is happening above and below the surface. Information sections about organic gardening techniques and about each of the creatures encountered in the story provide a great jumping off point for further learning.
The Big, Bad Book of Botany: The World’s Most Fascinating Flora, by Michael Largo, $1.99. The publisher describes this book as “David Attenborough meets Lemony Snicket,” and if that doesn’t sell you on it, I’m not sure what will. This alphabetical compendium of weird and wonderful plants is full of fascinating details and carefully drawn illustrations. There is something to fascinate readers of all ages.
The Ecology Book: Big Ideas Simply Explained, by DK Publishing, $1.99. This DK book is packed full of information about developments in the field of ecology, in approximately chronological order. Short sections cover basic scientific principles like evolution, heredity, food webs, mutualisms, and biodiversity. The text is a bit dense, but the frequent illustrations and diagrams help to reinforce concepts. Note: Several books in this DK series are on sale this week — don’t miss them!
STILL ON SALE
The Eye of Ra, by Ben Gartner, $0.99. Action meets time travel meets ancient mythology in this exciting middle-grade read! From the publisher: “Exploring a mysterious cave in the mountains behind their house, John and his sister Sarah are shocked to discover they’ve time traveled to ancient Egypt! Now they must work together to find a way back home from an ancient civilization of golden desert sand and a towering new pyramid, without parents to save them. The adventures abound—cobras, scorpions, a tomb robber, and more! The two kids have to trust each other, make friends who can help, and survive the challenges thrown at them . . . or be stuck in ancient Egypt forever. For readers graduating from the Magic Tree House series and ready for intense action, dive into this middle grade novel rich with meticulous historical detail.”
Asha and the Spirit Bird, by Jasbinder Bilan, $1.99. There is a massive genre of middle grade fiction that combines realism with elements of mythology and magic. If you know a kid who enjoys the Rick Riordan Presents books and/or who appreciates poetic language and foreign places, you’ll want to check this book out. Asha relies on the money her father sends each month. When the money stops coming, she and her friend venture into the Himalayas to find out what has happened to her father. Most of the dangers she faces are realistic (law enforcement, weather, wild animals), but the help she receives from a bird and a tiger veer into the magical realm.
Crenshaw, by Katherine Applegate, $2.99. Crenshaw is the magical story of an imaginary friend helping a boy through a very tough family situation. Jackson had an imaginary friend when he was younger, but he hasn’t seen Crenshaw in years. But when his dad is diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, money gets really tight and the family is in danger of losing their home. Jackson’s not sure whether Crenshaw’s reappearance is a good thing, but it might be just what he needs. This sweet book tackles some tough topics. We have a more detailed review here.
Greetings from Witness Protection! by Jake Burt, $2.99. This funny, middle-grade novel has a unique premise! Nicki knows her way around the low… from both sides. When the U.S. Marshalls recruit her to work for them, she is off on an unexpected adventure. She must pose as a family’s teen daughter and use her street smarts to help keep the family safe. You’ll find a bit of action, a bit of heartfelt drama, and a lot of humor in this fun debut novel.
The Grown-Up’s Guide to Teenage Humans: How to Decode Their Behavior, Develop Trust, and Raise a Respectable Adult, by Josh Shipp, $1.99. Most of us either have teens are preparing for those challenging and pivotal years. From the publisher: “In 2015, Harvard researchers found that every child who does well in the face of adversity has had at least one stable and committed relationship with a supportive adult. But Josh Shipp didn’t need Harvard to know that. Once an at-risk foster kid, he was headed straight for trouble until he met the man who changed his life: Rodney, the foster parent who refused to quit on Shipp and got him to believe in himself. Now, in The Grown-Up’s Guide to Teenage Humans, Shipp shows all of us how to be that caring adult in a teenager’s life. Stressing the need for compassion, trust, and encouragement, he breaks down the phases of a teenage human from sixth to twelfth grade, examining the changes, goals, and mentality of teenagers at each stage. Shipp offers revelatory stories that take us inside the teen brain, and shares wisdom from top professionals and the most expert grown-ups.“
The Enneagram of Parenting, by Elizabeth Wagele, $1.99. If you are new to the Enneagram personality descriptions or are curious about how you might apply them to children, this breezy primer could be the answer. Wagele describes the nine major personality types and how they are expressed in children of various ages. The book does not offer a comprehensive test to determine type, but it provides general descriptions and useful advice for common parenting issues.
On Teaching Science: Principles and Strategies That Every Educator Should Know, by Jeffrey Bennett, $1.99. This book is geared more towards classroom teachers, but it is still filled with lots of useful tips on presenting scientific information. Bennett focuses heavily on growth mindset and the role of failure and perseverance in the scientific method. Bennett’s enthusiasm for science communication will inspire teachers to bring a fresh perspective to their lessons. While science-focused, the strategies are cross-curricular and can be applied to many topics.
Why I Love Homeschooling Neurodiverse Kids: 25 Parents Share the Joys and Challenges of Educating Their Kids Who Have ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia, Giftedness, or are Otherwise Differently Wired, by Kathy Oaks and Brynn Steimle, $0.99. It can be hard for public schools to meet the needs to neurodivergent kids. I’ve found that ND families are very well represented in homeschool groups. Kathy Oaks shares stories from parents of ND kids that highlight the challenges and great rewards of homeschooling. In this book, you’ll find real-world tips for adapting the learning environment to your child, as well as encouragement and a wide variety of perspectives. Bonus: Kathy’s other homeschooling books are also on sale this weekend! Check out Homeschoolers are not Hermits, Road Schooling, Why I Love Homeschooling, and The Homeschoolers Are Not Hermits Quick Start Guide to Homeschooling.
The Other Side: Stories of Central American Teen Refugees Who Dream of Crossing the Border, by Juan Pablo Villalobos, $2.99. Villalobos has collected the stories of 11 teens who have made the journey from Central America to the U.S. Each story vividly depicts the hardships the children faced in their home countries and the difficult conditions of both the voyage and the time spent in processing at the border. These first-person accounts are an excellent introduction to issues of immigration and asylum-seeking.
We are Displaced: My Journey and Stories from Refugee Girls Around the World, by Malala Yousafzai, $3.99. From the publisher: “Malala's experiences visiting refugee camps caused her to reconsider her own displacement — first as an Internally Displaced Person when she was a young child in Pakistan, and then as an international activist who could travel anywhere in the world except to the home she loved. In We Are Displaced, Malala not only explores her own story, but she also shares the personal stories of some of the incredible girls she has met on her journeys — girls who have lost their community, relatives, and often the only world they've ever known.” Best for older middle-grade readers, this book has content warnings for violence.
Pete the Cat: Falling for Autumn, by Kimberly and James Dean, $1.99. Pete is bummed out that summer is ending, but a trip around a farm helps him to see all the good things about autumn. It’s a simple story packed full of useful information about fall produce and other activities.
Flora and the Flamingo, by Molly Idle, $1.99. Another fun wordless book! Flora is a budding dancer. When she encounters a flamingo, they both learn moves from each other. The illustrations are exuberant and charming, and kids can make up the words as they go. Many will be delighted to try to recreate Flora’s dances!
Hello Hello, by Brendan Wenzel, $1.99. I love Wenzel’s other book, They All Saw a Cat, which is all about differences in perception. Hello Hello is another great book about animals. Each page has a new animal that is connected to the previous animal by a shared trait (color, physical feature, etc.). The text is simple, but the concept is fodder for some great discussions! There’s an excellent conservation message at the end, along with a list of all the animals featured and their conservation statuses.
Fossil, by Bill Thomson, $0.99. This book is a great language arts opportunity! The story is told through vivid illustrations, but without words. Kids can create their own narrative about a child who discovers a fossil on the beach that comes to life when touched. At first, this is exciting, but when a pterodactyl carries away a dog, the kid must figure out how to return the creatures to their fossil state.
Bomb: The Race to Build — and Steal — the World’s Most Dangerous Weapon, by Steve Sheinkin, $2.99. Sheinkin writes great, engaging nonfiction books for younger readers, and Bomb is no exception. Here he tells the story of the German efforts to build an atomic bomb, and the rest of the world’s attempts to harness the new and powerful technology for themselves before the Germans had a chance to use it. There are spies, scientist, battles, and lots of intrigue in this middle grade/YA history.
Spare Parts: Four Undocumented Teenagers, One Ugly Robot, and the Battle for the American Dream, by Joshua Davis, $3.99. What a tremendous story! When a group of teens decides to enter a prestigious robotics competition, they are at a major disadvantage. They don’t have corporate sponsors or money to buy materials, and they need to keep a lower profile because all of them are undocumented. Through an incredible amount of perseverance, the team is able to successfully compete with their robot made primarily of scavenged and repurposed parts. There’s also a pretty good movie based on the same true story.
Knockout, by K.A. Holt, $1.99. Levi was chronically ill as a kid, but he has grown out of most of his issues and is sick of people treating him like he is fragile. When his father suggests that he try boxing, Levi sees a path to independence. This is a fast-paced novel-in-verse that will appeal to kids who are interested in sports. (It’s also a sequel to House Arrest, but it takes place 11 years later and reading the first book isn’t necessary.)
Ender’s World: Fresh Perspectives on the SF Classic Ender’s Game, by Orson Scott Card and others, $3.99. Ender’s Game (not so much the sequels) is a masterpiece of YA literature, and a touchstone for many gifted kids. This collection of essays from big names in literature and and even military strategists offers a deeper dive into the Ender’s universe.
Theodore Gray’s Completely Mad Science: Experiments You Can Do at Home, But Probably Shouldn’t, by Theodore Gray, $2.99. In this case, I think the title really says it all. Gray is known for his gorgeous science books filled with detailed photographs and facts. He brings this style to a collection of wild experiments that highlight important scientific principles. Whether you should really make a Flaming Bacon Lance remains to be seen, but you’ll get clear instructions on how to do it (and why) in this fun book.
The Testing, by Joelle Charbonneau, $1.99. Calling all fans of The Hunger Games or Divergent! This series should scratch that dystopian coming-of-age itch. Here’s a summary from the publisher: “It’s graduation day for sixteen-year-old Malencia Vale, and the entire Five Lakes Colony (the former Great Lakes) is celebrating. All Cia can think about—hope for—is whether she’ll be chosen for The Testing, a United Commonwealth program that selects the best and brightest new graduates to become possible leaders of the slowly revitalizing post-war civilization. When Cia is chosen, her father finally tells her about his own nightmarish half-memories of The Testing. Armed with his dire warnings (“Cia, trust no one”), she bravely heads off to Tosu City, far away from friends and family, perhaps forever. Danger, romance—and sheer terror—await.”
Booked: A Traveler’s Guide to Literary Locations Around the World, by Richard Kreitner, $3.99. If you’ve ever wanted to visit the setting of your favorite book, you will want to pick up this travel guide. Kreitner has selected places made famous in children’s and adult literature, both in the US and abroad. He includes short passages from the books in question, along with a discussion of the significance of each place and practical tips for visiting.
Howl’s Moving Castle, by Diana Wynne Jones, $3.50. Amy used this book and others to create a massive Studio Ghibli unit study. Here is her review: “Sometimes a curse can be just what you needed, as Sophie discovers in this delightful fantasy about a hat maker's daughter who's cursed to premature old age by the Witch of the Waste. To break the curse, Sophie will need to team up with the mysterious wizard Howl, who happens to be stuck under a curse of his own—but first, she'll have to get to his castle, which has a habit of wandering around. I love this as a readaloud, on its own, or (of course) a companion piece to the equally wonderful (though often quite different) movie adaptation.”
Stinkiest! 20 Smelly Animals, by Steve Jenkins, $3.99. Can you name 20 smelly animals? I’m not sure I could without reading this fun picture book. There’s a skunk on the cover, but Jenkins introduces readers to opossoms, hoopoes, millipedes, and lots of other big and little stinkers. If your kids are into gross facts (and who isn’t?), they will have a great time with this book.
Seeing Science: An Illustrated Guide to the Wonders of the Universe, by Iris Gottlieb, $2.99. This book is really cool. Gottlieb is an illustrator who is fascinated by the natural world. She brings her unique blend of cartoon and realism to topics in biology, earth science, and physics. The result is a charming and and detailed look at many interesting aspects of science. Visual learners and science fans will love this. The topics range from basic (how we know something is alive) to theoretical and complex (quantum superposition).
Art Before Breakfast: A Zillion Ways to be More Creative No Matter How Busy You Are, by Danny Gregory, $2.99. My daughter loves doing art and fills lots of her spare time making things. I’ve never considered myself an artist and struggle to find time to develop my skills. This book is a great place to start. Danny Gregory has created short, fun activities that take 10 minutes or less. They will encourage you to make art a regular part of your life. This book is a great way to add some art education to your homeschool, or to carve out a bit of time for your own creativity.
How Art Can Make You Happy, by Bridget Watson Payne, $1.99. A lot of homeschoolers I know have trouble working art into their education plans. This little book can help to bring some fresh ideas to your school year! With a focus on finding joy in experiencing and making art, this collection of tips, quotes, and pep talks is useful and inspiring.
How to Write a Story, by Kate Messner, $1.99. I love this picture book! It’s a step-by-step guide to writing a story, from brainstorming an idea to putting a polished version down on paper. It’s definitely educational, but not the least bit boring. The illustrations follow a girl as she creates her own very exciting story involving dragons and sea monsters.
The Brothers Grimm: Illuminated Fairy Tales, by The Brothers Grimm, $1.99. Occasionally you find a book that is uniquely designed for the ebook format. This collection of Grimm Fairy Tales is beautifully illustrated, with subtly animated elements! As you read, you can watch the witch threaten Hansel and Gretel. Each story is illustrated in a different artist, and you could compare and contrast their styles for a fun art lesson.
The Jane Austen Handbook, by Margaret Sullivan, $2.99. Both Austen newbies and proper Janeites will find this delightful little guidebook very useful. A light, tongue-in-cheek tone pairs well with a serious vault of knowledge about Regency England. Not sure whether a Marquis outranks a Duke? Or how rich Mr. Darcy would be in modern terms? This book will help fill in all the gaps.
Who is Greta Thunberg? by Jill Leonard, $4.99. Get to know Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg in this elementary biography. From the publisher: “When she was just fifteen years old, Greta Thunberg knew she wanted to change the world. With a hand-painted sign that read "School strike for the climate" in Swedish, Greta sat alone on the steps of the Swedish parliament to call for stronger action on climate change. Her one-person strike would soon spark a worldwide movement. This exciting story details the defining moments in Greta's childhood that led up to her now-famous strike and all the monumental ones that have fueled her revolution since, including being named Time's Most Influential Person of the Year in 2019.”
Molecules: The Elements and Architecture of Everything, by Theodore Gray, $0.99. If you’ve already gotten to know the periodic elements, it is time to step up to learning about molecules. Theodore Gray starts by explaining the basics of bonding and how bond types affect physical structure. The rest of the book is made up of profiles of different compounds, detailing their composition, usage, and history. As in all of Gray’s books, there are copious detailed photo illustrations.
Ripped From the Headlines: The Shocking True Stories Behind the Movies’ Most Memorable Crimes, by Harold Schechter, $1.99. So many of the plotlines from famous movies have been taken from true-life events. Historian Harold Schechter reveals all the fascinating stories behind films like Scream, Psycho, and Dirty Harry. This is a fun exploration for true crime fans and movie buffs alike!
Tasting the World: One Country at a Time, by Nicole O’Donnell, $2.99. This book is so cool! O’Donnell has collected recipes from more than 200 countries. I wish there were pictures, but I do appreciate her ratings system for ease of preparation, availability of ingredients, and degree of divergence from American flavor profiles. Pair this book with your geography lessons for a delicious enrichment.
Recipes from the World of Tolkein: Inspired by the Legends, by Robert Tuesley Anderson, $1.99. Supplement your reading to The Lord of the Rings with some “authentic” recipes! This small volume has many recipes (Brandywine Fish Pie, Beorn’s Twice-Baked Cakes) and beautiful watercolor illustrations. Essays about the importance of food in Middle Earth make for delicious reading.
The Classical Music Book, by DK Publishing, $1.99. This book is overflowing with music history information. Inside, you’ll find details about famous (and less famous) composers, instruments, musical styles, and much much more.
Nicola and the Viscount, by Meg Cabot, $1.99. Meg Cabot, who you may know from The Princess Diaries, is back with a historical YA romance. Here’s the publisher’s description: “Nicola Sparks, sixteen and an orphan, is ready to dive headlong into her first glittering London society season. She's also ready to dive headlong into the arms of handsome and debonair Lord Sebastian Bartholomew. Nicola's dream is a proposal from the viscount—a dream she's about to realize at last! So naturally, Nathaniel Sheridan's insinuations about her fiancé's flawed character annoy her mightily. But when Nicola's natural curiosity gets the best of her, she begins to piece together a few things for herself. To her great surprise, Nicola realizes she's had the wrong viscount all along . . . but is it too late to make things right?”
Her Right Foot, by Dave Eggers, $2.99. This beautiful picture book takes a look at the history of the Statue of Liberty. More than that, Eggers uses the statue to address the inherent freedoms that form the basis of American culture and government. Shawn Harris’s mixed-media illustrations are simple but visually interesting.
Kindle Deals for September 13, 2021
Middle grade Monday!
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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Greetings from Witness Protection! by Jake Burt, $2.99. This funny, middle-grade novel has a unique premise! Nicki knows her way around the low… from both sides. When the U.S. Marshalls recruit her to work for them, she is off on an unexpected adventure. She must pose as a family’s teen daughter and use her street smarts to help keep the family safe. You’ll find a bit of action, a bit of heartfelt drama, and a lot of humor in this fun debut novel.
Crenshaw, by Katherine Applegate, $2.99. Crenshaw is the magical story of an imaginary friend helping a boy through a very tough family situation. Jackson had an imaginary friend when he was younger, but he hasn’t seen Crenshaw in years. But when his dad is diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, money gets really tight and the family is in danger of losing their home. Jackson’s not sure whether Crenshaw’s reappearance is a good thing, but it might be just what he needs. This sweet book tackles some tough topics. We have a more detailed review here.
Asha and the Spirit Bird, by Jasbinder Bilan, $1.99. There is a massive genre of middle grade fiction that combines realism with elements of mythology and magic. If you know a kid who enjoys the Rick Riordan Presents books and/or who appreciates poetic language and foreign places, you’ll want to check this book out. Asha relies on the money her father sends each month. When the money stops coming, she and her friend venture into the Himalayas to find out what has happened to her father. Most of the dangers she faces are realistic (law enforcement, weather, wild animals), but the help she receives from a bird and a tiger veer into the magical realm.
The Eye of Ra, by Ben Gartner, $0.99. Action meets time travel meets ancient mythology in this exciting middle-grade read! From the publisher: “Exploring a mysterious cave in the mountains behind their house, John and his sister Sarah are shocked to discover they’ve time traveled to ancient Egypt! Now they must work together to find a way back home from an ancient civilization of golden desert sand and a towering new pyramid, without parents to save them. The adventures abound—cobras, scorpions, a tomb robber, and more! The two kids have to trust each other, make friends who can help, and survive the challenges thrown at them . . . or be stuck in ancient Egypt forever. For readers graduating from the Magic Tree House series and ready for intense action, dive into this middle grade novel rich with meticulous historical detail.”
STILL ON SALE
The Grown-Up’s Guide to Teenage Humans: How to Decode Their Behavior, Develop Trust, and Raise a Respectable Adult, by Josh Shipp, $1.99. Most of us either have teens are preparing for those challenging and pivotal years. From the publisher: “In 2015, Harvard researchers found that every child who does well in the face of adversity has had at least one stable and committed relationship with a supportive adult. But Josh Shipp didn’t need Harvard to know that. Once an at-risk foster kid, he was headed straight for trouble until he met the man who changed his life: Rodney, the foster parent who refused to quit on Shipp and got him to believe in himself. Now, in The Grown-Up’s Guide to Teenage Humans, Shipp shows all of us how to be that caring adult in a teenager’s life. Stressing the need for compassion, trust, and encouragement, he breaks down the phases of a teenage human from sixth to twelfth grade, examining the changes, goals, and mentality of teenagers at each stage. Shipp offers revelatory stories that take us inside the teen brain, and shares wisdom from top professionals and the most expert grown-ups.“
The Enneagram of Parenting, by Elizabeth Wagele, $1.99. If you are new to the Enneagram personality descriptions or are curious about how you might apply them to children, this breezy primer could be the answer. Wagele describes the nine major personality types and how they are expressed in children of various ages. The book does not offer a comprehensive test to determine type, but it provides general descriptions and useful advice for common parenting issues.
On Teaching Science: Principles and Strategies That Every Educator Should Know, by Jeffrey Bennett, $1.99. This book is geared more towards classroom teachers, but it is still filled with lots of useful tips on presenting scientific information. Bennett focuses heavily on growth mindset and the role of failure and perseverance in the scientific method. Bennett’s enthusiasm for science communication will inspire teachers to bring a fresh perspective to their lessons. While science-focused, the strategies are cross-curricular and can be applied to many topics.
Why I Love Homeschooling Neurodiverse Kids: 25 Parents Share the Joys and Challenges of Educating Their Kids Who Have ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia, Giftedness, or are Otherwise Differently Wired, by Kathy Oaks and Brynn Steimle, $0.99. It can be hard for public schools to meet the needs to neurodivergent kids. I’ve found that ND families are very well represented in homeschool groups. Kathy Oaks shares stories from parents of ND kids that highlight the challenges and great rewards of homeschooling. In this book, you’ll find real-world tips for adapting the learning environment to your child, as well as encouragement and a wide variety of perspectives. Bonus: Kathy’s other homeschooling books are also on sale this weekend! Check out Homeschoolers are not Hermits, Road Schooling, Why I Love Homeschooling, and The Homeschoolers Are Not Hermits Quick Start Guide to Homeschooling.
The Other Side: Stories of Central American Teen Refugees Who Dream of Crossing the Border, by Juan Pablo Villalobos, $2.99. Villalobos has collected the stories of 11 teens who have made the journey from Central America to the U.S. Each story vividly depicts the hardships the children faced in their home countries and the difficult conditions of both the voyage and the time spent in processing at the border. These first-person accounts are an excellent introduction to issues of immigration and asylum-seeking.
We are Displaced: My Journey and Stories from Refugee Girls Around the World, by Malala Yousafzai, $3.99. From the publisher: “Malala's experiences visiting refugee camps caused her to reconsider her own displacement — first as an Internally Displaced Person when she was a young child in Pakistan, and then as an international activist who could travel anywhere in the world except to the home she loved. In We Are Displaced, Malala not only explores her own story, but she also shares the personal stories of some of the incredible girls she has met on her journeys — girls who have lost their community, relatives, and often the only world they've ever known.” Best for older middle-grade readers, this book has content warnings for violence.
Everything Sad is Untrue: A True Story, by Daniel Nayeri, $2.99. This autobiographical novel tells the story of Khosrou, an Iranian refugee who is called Daniel in his new American town. Nayeri weaves the story of his past into a complicated tale reminiscent of One Thousand and One Nights. Both poignant and lovely, this book is well deserving of the many awards it has won. Suitable for middle and high school readers.
Pete the Cat: Falling for Autumn, by Kimberly and James Dean, $1.99. Pete is bummed out that summer is ending, but a trip around a farm helps him to see all the good things about autumn. It’s a simple story packed full of useful information about fall produce and other activities.
Flora and the Flamingo, by Molly Idle, $1.99. Another fun wordless book! Flora is a budding dancer. When she encounters a flamingo, they both learn moves from each other. The illustrations are exuberant and charming, and kids can make up the words as they go. Many will be delighted to try to recreate Flora’s dances!
Hello Hello, by Brendan Wenzel, $1.99. I love Wenzel’s other book, They All Saw a Cat, which is all about differences in perception. Hello Hello is another great book about animals. Each page has a new animal that is connected to the previous animal by a shared trait (color, physical feature, etc.). The text is simple, but the concept is fodder for some great discussions! There’s an excellent conservation message at the end, along with a list of all the animals featured and their conservation statuses.
Fossil, by Bill Thomson, $0.99. This book is a great language arts opportunity! The story is told through vivid illustrations, but without words. Kids can create their own narrative about a child who discovers a fossil on the beach that comes to life when touched. At first, this is exciting, but when a pterodactyl carries away a dog, the kid must figure out how to return the creatures to their fossil state.
Bomb: The Race to Build — and Steal — the World’s Most Dangerous Weapon, by Steve Sheinkin, $2.99. Sheinkin writes great, engaging nonfiction books for younger readers, and Bomb is no exception. Here he tells the story of the German efforts to build an atomic bomb, and the rest of the world’s attempts to harness the new and powerful technology for themselves before the Germans had a chance to use it. There are spies, scientist, battles, and lots of intrigue in this middle grade/YA history.
Spare Parts: Four Undocumented Teenagers, One Ugly Robot, and the Battle for the American Dream, by Joshua Davis, $3.99. What a tremendous story! When a group of teens decides to enter a prestigious robotics competition, they are at a major disadvantage. They don’t have corporate sponsors or money to buy materials, and they need to keep a lower profile because all of them are undocumented. Through an incredible amount of perseverance, the team is able to successfully compete with their robot made primarily of scavenged and repurposed parts. There’s also a pretty good movie based on the same true story.
Knockout, by K.A. Holt, $1.99. Levi was chronically ill as a kid, but he has grown out of most of his issues and is sick of people treating him like he is fragile. When his father suggests that he try boxing, Levi sees a path to independence. This is a fast-paced novel-in-verse that will appeal to kids who are interested in sports. (It’s also a sequel to House Arrest, but it takes place 11 years later and reading the first book isn’t necessary.)
Ender’s World: Fresh Perspectives on the SF Classic Ender’s Game, by Orson Scott Card and others, $3.99. Ender’s Game (not so much the sequels) is a masterpiece of YA literature, and a touchstone for many gifted kids. This collection of essays from big names in literature and and even military strategists offers a deeper dive into the Ender’s universe.
Theodore Gray’s Completely Mad Science: Experiments You Can Do at Home, But Probably Shouldn’t, by Theodore Gray, $2.99. In this case, I think the title really says it all. Gray is known for his gorgeous science books filled with detailed photographs and facts. He brings this style to a collection of wild experiments that highlight important scientific principles. Whether you should really make a Flaming Bacon Lance remains to be seen, but you’ll get clear instructions on how to do it (and why) in this fun book.
The Testing, by Joelle Charbonneau, $1.99. Calling all fans of The Hunger Games or Divergent! This series should scratch that dystopian coming-of-age itch. Here’s a summary from the publisher: “It’s graduation day for sixteen-year-old Malencia Vale, and the entire Five Lakes Colony (the former Great Lakes) is celebrating. All Cia can think about—hope for—is whether she’ll be chosen for The Testing, a United Commonwealth program that selects the best and brightest new graduates to become possible leaders of the slowly revitalizing post-war civilization. When Cia is chosen, her father finally tells her about his own nightmarish half-memories of The Testing. Armed with his dire warnings (“Cia, trust no one”), she bravely heads off to Tosu City, far away from friends and family, perhaps forever. Danger, romance—and sheer terror—await.”
Dog Days, by Karen English, $1.99. You may have encountered English’s previous early chapter book series, Nikki and Deja. The Carver Chronicles is set in that same universe but centers boys’ stories! Dog Days is about Gavin, a new kid who loves skateboarding. When he is assigned care of his great-aunt’s fussy Pomeranian as a consequence for getting into trouble, he worries no one will ever think he is cool with the dog in tow. Short chapters and dynamic illustrations make this one a fun read.
Booked: A Traveler’s Guide to Literary Locations Around the World, by Richard Kreitner, $3.99. If you’ve ever wanted to visit the setting of your favorite book, you will want to pick up this travel guide. Kreitner has selected places made famous in children’s and adult literature, both in the US and abroad. He includes short passages from the books in question, along with a discussion of the significance of each place and practical tips for visiting.
Howl’s Moving Castle, by Diana Wynne Jones, $3.50. Amy used this book and others to create a massive Studio Ghibli unit study. Here is her review: “Sometimes a curse can be just what you needed, as Sophie discovers in this delightful fantasy about a hat maker's daughter who's cursed to premature old age by the Witch of the Waste. To break the curse, Sophie will need to team up with the mysterious wizard Howl, who happens to be stuck under a curse of his own—but first, she'll have to get to his castle, which has a habit of wandering around. I love this as a readaloud, on its own, or (of course) a companion piece to the equally wonderful (though often quite different) movie adaptation.”
Stinkiest! 20 Smelly Animals, by Steve Jenkins, $3.99. Can you name 20 smelly animals? I’m not sure I could without reading this fun picture book. There’s a skunk on the cover, but Jenkins introduces readers to opossoms, hoopoes, millipedes, and lots of other big and little stinkers. If your kids are into gross facts (and who isn’t?), they will have a great time with this book.
Seeing Science: An Illustrated Guide to the Wonders of the Universe, by Iris Gottlieb, $2.99. This book is really cool. Gottlieb is an illustrator who is fascinated by the natural world. She brings her unique blend of cartoon and realism to topics in biology, earth science, and physics. The result is a charming and and detailed look at many interesting aspects of science. Visual learners and science fans will love this. The topics range from basic (how we know something is alive) to theoretical and complex (quantum superposition).
Art Before Breakfast: A Zillion Ways to be More Creative No Matter How Busy You Are, by Danny Gregory, $2.99. My daughter loves doing art and fills lots of her spare time making things. I’ve never considered myself an artist and struggle to find time to develop my skills. This book is a great place to start. Danny Gregory has created short, fun activities that take 10 minutes or less. They will encourage you to make art a regular part of your life. This book is a great way to add some art education to your homeschool, or to carve out a bit of time for your own creativity.
How Art Can Make You Happy, by Bridget Watson Payne, $1.99. A lot of homeschoolers I know have trouble working art into their education plans. This little book can help to bring some fresh ideas to your school year! With a focus on finding joy in experiencing and making art, this collection of tips, quotes, and pep talks is useful and inspiring.
How to Write a Story, by Kate Messner, $1.99. I love this picture book! It’s a step-by-step guide to writing a story, from brainstorming an idea to putting a polished version down on paper. It’s definitely educational, but not the least bit boring. The illustrations follow a girl as she creates her own very exciting story involving dragons and sea monsters.
The Brothers Grimm: Illuminated Fairy Tales, by The Brothers Grimm, $1.99. Occasionally you find a book that is uniquely designed for the ebook format. This collection of Grimm Fairy Tales is beautifully illustrated, with subtly animated elements! As you read, you can watch the witch threaten Hansel and Gretel. Each story is illustrated in a different artist, and you could compare and contrast their styles for a fun art lesson.
The Jane Austen Handbook, by Margaret Sullivan, $2.99. Both Austen newbies and proper Janeites will find this delightful little guidebook very useful. A light, tongue-in-cheek tone pairs well with a serious vault of knowledge about Regency England. Not sure whether a Marquis outranks a Duke? Or how rich Mr. Darcy would be in modern terms? This book will help fill in all the gaps.
Who is Greta Thunberg? by Jill Leonard, $4.99. Get to know Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg in this elementary biography. From the publisher: “When she was just fifteen years old, Greta Thunberg knew she wanted to change the world. With a hand-painted sign that read "School strike for the climate" in Swedish, Greta sat alone on the steps of the Swedish parliament to call for stronger action on climate change. Her one-person strike would soon spark a worldwide movement. This exciting story details the defining moments in Greta's childhood that led up to her now-famous strike and all the monumental ones that have fueled her revolution since, including being named Time's Most Influential Person of the Year in 2019.”
Molecules: The Elements and Architecture of Everything, by Theodore Gray, $0.99. If you’ve already gotten to know the periodic elements, it is time to step up to learning about molecules. Theodore Gray starts by explaining the basics of bonding and how bond types affect physical structure. The rest of the book is made up of profiles of different compounds, detailing their composition, usage, and history. As in all of Gray’s books, there are copious detailed photo illustrations.
Ripped From the Headlines: The Shocking True Stories Behind the Movies’ Most Memorable Crimes, by Harold Schechter, $1.99. So many of the plotlines from famous movies have been taken from true-life events. Historian Harold Schechter reveals all the fascinating stories behind films like Scream, Psycho, and Dirty Harry. This is a fun exploration for true crime fans and movie buffs alike!
Tasting the World: One Country at a Time, by Nicole O’Donnell, $2.99. This book is so cool! O’Donnell has collected recipes from more than 200 countries. I wish there were pictures, but I do appreciate her ratings system for ease of preparation, availability of ingredients, and degree of divergence from American flavor profiles. Pair this book with your geography lessons for a delicious enrichment.
Recipes from the World of Tolkein: Inspired by the Legends, by Robert Tuesley Anderson, $1.99. Supplement your reading to The Lord of the Rings with some “authentic” recipes! This small volume has many recipes (Brandywine Fish Pie, Beorn’s Twice-Baked Cakes) and beautiful watercolor illustrations. Essays about the importance of food in Middle Earth make for delicious reading.
The Classical Music Book, by DK Publishing, $1.99. This book is overflowing with music history information. Inside, you’ll find details about famous (and less famous) composers, instruments, musical styles, and much much more.
Nicola and the Viscount, by Meg Cabot, $1.99. Meg Cabot, who you may know from The Princess Diaries, is back with a historical YA romance. Here’s the publisher’s description: “Nicola Sparks, sixteen and an orphan, is ready to dive headlong into her first glittering London society season. She's also ready to dive headlong into the arms of handsome and debonair Lord Sebastian Bartholomew. Nicola's dream is a proposal from the viscount—a dream she's about to realize at last! So naturally, Nathaniel Sheridan's insinuations about her fiancé's flawed character annoy her mightily. But when Nicola's natural curiosity gets the best of her, she begins to piece together a few things for herself. To her great surprise, Nicola realizes she's had the wrong viscount all along . . . but is it too late to make things right?”
Her Right Foot, by Dave Eggers, $2.99. This beautiful picture book takes a look at the history of the Statue of Liberty. More than that, Eggers uses the statue to address the inherent freedoms that form the basis of American culture and government. Shawn Harris’s mixed-media illustrations are simple but visually interesting.
Kindle Deals for September 10, 2021
Helpful books about teaching and parenting!
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.
Why I Love Homeschooling Neurodiverse Kids: 25 Parents Share the Joys and Challenges of Educating Their Kids Who Have ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia, Giftedness, or are Otherwise Differently Wired, by Kathy Oaks and Brynn Steimle, $0.99. It can be hard for public schools to meet the needs to neurodivergent kids. I’ve found that ND families are very well represented in homeschool groups. Kathy Oaks shares stories from parents of ND kids that highlight the challenges and great rewards of homeschooling. In this book, you’ll find real-world tips for adapting the learning environment to your child, as well as encouragement and a wide variety of perspectives. Bonus: Kathy’s other homeschooling books are also on sale this weekend! Check out Homeschoolers are not Hermits, Road Schooling, Why I Love Homeschooling, and The Homeschoolers Are Not Hermits Quick Start Guide to Homeschooling.
On Teaching Science: Principles and Strategies That Every Educator Should Know, by Jeffrey Bennett, $1.99. This book is geared more towards classroom teachers, but it is still filled with lots of useful tips on presenting scientific information. Bennett focuses heavily on growth mindset and the role of failure and perseverance in the scientific method. Bennett’s enthusiasm for science communication will inspire teachers to bring a fresh perspective to their lessons. While science-focused, the strategies are cross-curricular and can be applied to many topics.
The Enneagram of Parenting, by Elizabeth Wagele, $1.99. If you are new to the Enneagram personality descriptions or are curious about how you might apply them to children, this breezy primer could be the answer. Wagele describes the nine major personality types and how they are expressed in children of various ages. The book does not offer a comprehensive test to determine type, but it provides general descriptions and useful advice for common parenting issues.
The Grown-Up’s Guide to Teenage Humans: How to Decode Their Behavior, Develop Trust, and Raise a Respectable Adult, by Josh Shipp, $1.99. Most of us either have teens are preparing for those challenging and pivotal years. From the publisher: “In 2015, Harvard researchers found that every child who does well in the face of adversity has had at least one stable and committed relationship with a supportive adult. But Josh Shipp didn’t need Harvard to know that. Once an at-risk foster kid, he was headed straight for trouble until he met the man who changed his life: Rodney, the foster parent who refused to quit on Shipp and got him to believe in himself. Now, in The Grown-Up’s Guide to Teenage Humans, Shipp shows all of us how to be that caring adult in a teenager’s life. Stressing the need for compassion, trust, and encouragement, he breaks down the phases of a teenage human from sixth to twelfth grade, examining the changes, goals, and mentality of teenagers at each stage. Shipp offers revelatory stories that take us inside the teen brain, and shares wisdom from top professionals and the most expert grown-ups.“
STILL ON SALE
The Other Side: Stories of Central American Teen Refugees Who Dream of Crossing the Border, by Juan Pablo Villalobos, $2.99. Villalobos has collected the stories of 11 teens who have made the journey from Central America to the U.S. Each story vividly depicts the hardships the children faced in their home countries and the difficult conditions of both the voyage and the time spent in processing at the border. These first-person accounts are an excellent introduction to issues of immigration and asylum-seeking.
We Are Not From Here, by Jenny Torres Sanches, $4.99. Three Guatemalan teens are growing desperate to leave the dangers of their home town. Together they set out on a journey to the U.S. that is no less dangerous but offers the possibility of safety at the end. The story is gritty and hard to read at times, but an excellent choice for teens.
We are Displaced: My Journey and Stories from Refugee Girls Around the World, by Malala Yousafzai, $3.99. From the publisher: “Malala's experiences visiting refugee camps caused her to reconsider her own displacement — first as an Internally Displaced Person when she was a young child in Pakistan, and then as an international activist who could travel anywhere in the world except to the home she loved. In We Are Displaced, Malala not only explores her own story, but she also shares the personal stories of some of the incredible girls she has met on her journeys — girls who have lost their community, relatives, and often the only world they've ever known.” Best for older middle-grade readers, this book has content warnings for violence.
Everything Sad is Untrue: A True Story, by Daniel Nayeri, $2.99. This autobiographical novel tells the story of Khosrou, an Iranian refugee who is called Daniel in his new American town. Nayeri weaves the story of his past into a complicated tale reminiscent of One Thousand and One Nights. Both poignant and lovely, this book is well deserving of the many awards it has won. Suitable for middle and high school readers.
Pete the Cat: Falling for Autumn, by Kimberly and James Dean, $1.99. Pete is bummed out that summer is ending, but a trip around a farm helps him to see all the good things about autumn. It’s a simple story packed full of useful information about fall produce and other activities.
Flora and the Flamingo, by Molly Idle, $1.99. Another fun wordless book! Flora is a budding dancer. When she encounters a flamingo, they both learn moves from each other. The illustrations are exuberant and charming, and kids can make up the words as they go. Many will be delighted to try to recreate Flora’s dances!
Hello Hello, by Brendan Wenzel, $1.99. I love Wenzel’s other book, They All Saw a Cat, which is all about differences in perception. Hello Hello is another great book about animals. Each page has a new animal that is connected to the previous animal by a shared trait (color, physical feature, etc.). The text is simple, but the concept is fodder for some great discussions! There’s an excellent conservation message at the end, along with a list of all the animals featured and their conservation statuses.
Fossil, by Bill Thomson, $0.99. This book is a great language arts opportunity! The story is told through vivid illustrations, but without words. Kids can create their own narrative about a child who discovers a fossil on the beach that comes to life when touched. At first, this is exciting, but when a pterodactyl carries away a dog, the kid must figure out how to return the creatures to their fossil state.
Bomb: The Race to Build — and Steal — the World’s Most Dangerous Weapon, by Steve Sheinkin, $2.99. Sheinkin writes great, engaging nonfiction books for younger readers, and Bomb is no exception. Here he tells the story of the German efforts to build an atomic bomb, and the rest of the world’s attempts to harness the new and powerful technology for themselves before the Germans had a chance to use it. There are spies, scientist, battles, and lots of intrigue in this middle grade/YA history.
Spare Parts: Four Undocumented Teenagers, One Ugly Robot, and the Battle for the American Dream, by Joshua Davis, $3.99. What a tremendous story! When a group of teens decides to enter a prestigious robotics competition, they are at a major disadvantage. They don’t have corporate sponsors or money to buy materials, and they need to keep a lower profile because all of them are undocumented. Through an incredible amount of perseverance, the team is able to successfully compete with their robot made primarily of scavenged and repurposed parts. There’s also a pretty good movie based on the same true story.
Knockout, by K.A. Holt, $1.99. Levi was chronically ill as a kid, but he has grown out of most of his issues and is sick of people treating him like he is fragile. When his father suggests that he try boxing, Levi sees a path to independence. This is a fast-paced novel-in-verse that will appeal to kids who are interested in sports. (It’s also a sequel to House Arrest, but it takes place 11 years later and reading the first book isn’t necessary.)
Ender’s World: Fresh Perspectives on the SF Classic Ender’s Game, by Orson Scott Card and others, $3.99. Ender’s Game (not so much the sequels) is a masterpiece of YA literature, and a touchstone for many gifted kids. This collection of essays from big names in literature and and even military strategists offers a deeper dive into the Ender’s universe.
Theodore Gray’s Completely Mad Science: Experiments You Can Do at Home, But Probably Shouldn’t, by Theodore Gray, $2.99. In this case, I think the title really says it all. Gray is known for his gorgeous science books filled with detailed photographs and facts. He brings this style to a collection of wild experiments that highlight important scientific principles. Whether you should really make a Flaming Bacon Lance remains to be seen, but you’ll get clear instructions on how to do it (and why) in this fun book.
Enough As She Is: How to Help Girls Move Beyond Impossible Standards of Success to Live Healthy, Happy, and Fulfilling Lives, by Rachel Simmons, $1.99. Rachel Simmons has written a follow up to Odd Girl Out. In this new book, she looks at the unreasonable standards girls and young women place on themselves and offers parents concrete guidance for reinforcing confidence.
The Testing, by Joelle Charbonneau, $1.99. Calling all fans of The Hunger Games or Divergent! This series should scratch that dystopian coming-of-age itch. Here’s a summary from the publisher: “It’s graduation day for sixteen-year-old Malencia Vale, and the entire Five Lakes Colony (the former Great Lakes) is celebrating. All Cia can think about—hope for—is whether she’ll be chosen for The Testing, a United Commonwealth program that selects the best and brightest new graduates to become possible leaders of the slowly revitalizing post-war civilization. When Cia is chosen, her father finally tells her about his own nightmarish half-memories of The Testing. Armed with his dire warnings (“Cia, trust no one”), she bravely heads off to Tosu City, far away from friends and family, perhaps forever. Danger, romance—and sheer terror—await.”
Elatsoe, by Darcy Little Badger, $2.99. This award-winning fantasy novel presents a fresh and unique voice. From the publisher: “Elatsoe—Ellie for short—lives in an alternate contemporary America shaped by the ancestral magics and knowledge of its Indigenous and immigrant groups. She can raise the spirits of dead animals—most importantly, her ghost dog Kirby. When her beloved cousin dies, all signs point to a car crash, but his ghost tells her otherwise: He was murdered. Who killed him and how did he die? With the help of her family, her best friend Jay, and the memory great, great, great, great, great, great grandmother, Elatsoe, must track down the killer and unravel the mystery of this creepy town and its dark past. But will the nefarious townsfolk and a mysterious Doctor stop her before she gets started? A breathtaking debut novel featuring an asexual, Apache teen protagonist, Elatsoe combines mystery, horror, noir, ancestral knowledge, haunting illustrations, fantasy elements, and is one of the most-talked about debuts of the year.”
I Know What You Did Last Summer, by Lois Duncan, $2.99. Lois Duncan is a master of classic YA suspense. The stakes are very high in this 1970s novel about teens trying to evade a mysterious stranger who is out to punish them for a hit-and-run accident. I can’t remember enough about the 1990s movie adaptation to specifically recommend it, but if you have a suspense/horror fan, you could do a book-movie comparison!
Dog Days, by Karen English, $1.99. You may have encountered English’s previous early chapter book series, Nikki and Deja. The Carver Chronicles is set in that same universe but centers boys’ stories! Dog Days is about Gavin, a new kid who loves skateboarding. When he is assigned care of his great-aunt’s fussy Pomeranian as a consequence for getting into trouble, he worries no one will ever think he is cool with the dog in tow. Short chapters and dynamic illustrations make this one a fun read.
Booked: A Traveler’s Guide to Literary Locations Around the World, by Richard Kreitner, $3.99. If you’ve ever wanted to visit the setting of your favorite book, you will want to pick up this travel guide. Kreitner has selected places made famous in children’s and adult literature, both in the US and abroad. He includes short passages from the books in question, along with a discussion of the significance of each place and practical tips for visiting.
Howl’s Moving Castle, by Diana Wynne Jones, $3.50. Amy used this book and others to create a massive Studio Ghibli unit study. Here is her review: “Sometimes a curse can be just what you needed, as Sophie discovers in this delightful fantasy about a hat maker's daughter who's cursed to premature old age by the Witch of the Waste. To break the curse, Sophie will need to team up with the mysterious wizard Howl, who happens to be stuck under a curse of his own—but first, she'll have to get to his castle, which has a habit of wandering around. I love this as a readaloud, on its own, or (of course) a companion piece to the equally wonderful (though often quite different) movie adaptation.”
Stinkiest! 20 Smelly Animals, by Steve Jenkins, $3.99. Can you name 20 smelly animals? I’m not sure I could without reading this fun picture book. There’s a skunk on the cover, but Jenkins introduces readers to opossoms, hoopoes, millipedes, and lots of other big and little stinkers. If your kids are into gross facts (and who isn’t?), they will have a great time with this book.
Seeing Science: An Illustrated Guide to the Wonders of the Universe, by Iris Gottlieb, $2.99. This book is really cool. Gottlieb is an illustrator who is fascinated by the natural world. She brings her unique blend of cartoon and realism to topics in biology, earth science, and physics. The result is a charming and and detailed look at many interesting aspects of science. Visual learners and science fans will love this. The topics range from basic (how we know something is alive) to theoretical and complex (quantum superposition).
Art Before Breakfast: A Zillion Ways to be More Creative No Matter How Busy You Are, by Danny Gregory, $2.99. My daughter loves doing art and fills lots of her spare time making things. I’ve never considered myself an artist and struggle to find time to develop my skills. This book is a great place to start. Danny Gregory has created short, fun activities that take 10 minutes or less. They will encourage you to make art a regular part of your life. This book is a great way to add some art education to your homeschool, or to carve out a bit of time for your own creativity.
How Art Can Make You Happy, by Bridget Watson Payne, $1.99. A lot of homeschoolers I know have trouble working art into their education plans. This little book can help to bring some fresh ideas to your school year! With a focus on finding joy in experiencing and making art, this collection of tips, quotes, and pep talks is useful and inspiring.
How to Write a Story, by Kate Messner, $1.99. I love this picture book! It’s a step-by-step guide to writing a story, from brainstorming an idea to putting a polished version down on paper. It’s definitely educational, but not the least bit boring. The illustrations follow a girl as she creates her own very exciting story involving dragons and sea monsters.
Nordic Tales: Folktales from Norway, Sweden, Finland, Iceland, and Denmark, by Chronicle Books, $2.99. These folktales are full of trolls, ogres, dragons, and other creatures. A few are familiar, but most are not well know in the U.S. You’ll find tales of trickery, transformation, and travel in this charmingly illustrated collection.
The Brothers Grimm: Illuminated Fairy Tales, by The Brothers Grimm, $1.99. Occasionally you find a book that is uniquely designed for the ebook format. This collection of Grimm Fairy Tales is beautifully illustrated, with subtly animated elements! As you read, you can watch the witch threaten Hansel and Gretel. Each story is illustrated in a different artist, and you could compare and contrast their styles for a fun art lesson.
The Jane Austen Handbook, by Margaret Sullivan, $2.99. Both Austen newbies and proper Janeites will find this delightful little guidebook very useful. A light, tongue-in-cheek tone pairs well with a serious vault of knowledge about Regency England. Not sure whether a Marquis outranks a Duke? Or how rich Mr. Darcy would be in modern terms? This book will help fill in all the gaps.
Who is Greta Thunberg? by Jill Leonard, $4.99. Get to know Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg in this elementary biography. From the publisher: “When she was just fifteen years old, Greta Thunberg knew she wanted to change the world. With a hand-painted sign that read "School strike for the climate" in Swedish, Greta sat alone on the steps of the Swedish parliament to call for stronger action on climate change. Her one-person strike would soon spark a worldwide movement. This exciting story details the defining moments in Greta's childhood that led up to her now-famous strike and all the monumental ones that have fueled her revolution since, including being named Time's Most Influential Person of the Year in 2019.”
Molecules: The Elements and Architecture of Everything, by Theodore Gray, $0.99. If you’ve already gotten to know the periodic elements, it is time to step up to learning about molecules. Theodore Gray starts by explaining the basics of bonding and how bond types affect physical structure. The rest of the book is made up of profiles of different compounds, detailing their composition, usage, and history. As in all of Gray’s books, there are copious detailed photo illustrations.
Ripped From the Headlines: The Shocking True Stories Behind the Movies’ Most Memorable Crimes, by Harold Schechter, $1.99. So many of the plotlines from famous movies have been taken from true-life events. Historian Harold Schechter reveals all the fascinating stories behind films like Scream, Psycho, and Dirty Harry. This is a fun exploration for true crime fans and movie buffs alike!
Tasting the World: One Country at a Time, by Nicole O’Donnell, $2.99. This book is so cool! O’Donnell has collected recipes from more than 200 countries. I wish there were pictures, but I do appreciate her ratings system for ease of preparation, availability of ingredients, and degree of divergence from American flavor profiles. Pair this book with your geography lessons for a delicious enrichment.
Recipes from the World of Tolkein: Inspired by the Legends, by Robert Tuesley Anderson, $1.99. Supplement your reading to The Lord of the Rings with some “authentic” recipes! This small volume has many recipes (Brandywine Fish Pie, Beorn’s Twice-Baked Cakes) and beautiful watercolor illustrations. Essays about the importance of food in Middle Earth make for delicious reading.
The Classical Music Book, by DK Publishing, $1.99. This book is overflowing with music history information. Inside, you’ll find details about famous (and less famous) composers, instruments, musical styles, and much much more.
Nicola and the Viscount, by Meg Cabot, $1.99. Meg Cabot, who you may know from The Princess Diaries, is back with a historical YA romance. Here’s the publisher’s description: “Nicola Sparks, sixteen and an orphan, is ready to dive headlong into her first glittering London society season. She's also ready to dive headlong into the arms of handsome and debonair Lord Sebastian Bartholomew. Nicola's dream is a proposal from the viscount—a dream she's about to realize at last! So naturally, Nathaniel Sheridan's insinuations about her fiancé's flawed character annoy her mightily. But when Nicola's natural curiosity gets the best of her, she begins to piece together a few things for herself. To her great surprise, Nicola realizes she's had the wrong viscount all along . . . but is it too late to make things right?”
Her Right Foot, by Dave Eggers, $2.99. This beautiful picture book takes a look at the history of the Statue of Liberty. More than that, Eggers uses the statue to address the inherent freedoms that form the basis of American culture and government. Shawn Harris’s mixed-media illustrations are simple but visually interesting.
Kindle Deals for September 9, 2021
Books about immigrants and refuges
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.
Everything Sad is Untrue: A True Story, by Daniel Nayeri, $2.99. This autobiographical novel tells the story of Khosrou, an Iranian refugee who is called Daniel in his new American town. Nayeri weaves the story of his past into a complicated tale reminiscent of One Thousand and One Nights. Both poignant and lovely, this book is well deserving of the many awards it has won. Suitable for middle and high school readers.
We are Displaced: My Journey and Stories from Refugee Girls Around the World, by Malala Yousafzai, $3.99. From the publisher: “Malala's experiences visiting refugee camps caused her to reconsider her own displacement — first as an Internally Displaced Person when she was a young child in Pakistan, and then as an international activist who could travel anywhere in the world except to the home she loved. In We Are Displaced, Malala not only explores her own story, but she also shares the personal stories of some of the incredible girls she has met on her journeys — girls who have lost their community, relatives, and often the only world they've ever known.” Best for older middle-grade readers, this book has content warnings for violence.
We Are Not From Here, by Jenny Torres Sanches, $4.99. Three Guatemalan teens are growing desperate to leave the dangers of their home town. Together they set out on a journey to the U.S. that is no less dangerous but offers the possibility of safety at the end. The story is gritty and hard to read at times, but an excellent choice for teens.
The Other Side: Stories of Central American Teen Refugees Who Dream of Crossing the Border, by Juan Pablo Villalobos, $2.99. Villalobos has collected the stories of 11 teens who have made the journey from Central America to the U.S. Each story vividly depicts the hardships the children faced in their home countries and the difficult conditions of both the voyage and the time spent in processing at the border. These first-person accounts are an excellent introduction to issues of immigration and asylum-seeking.
STILL ON SALE
Pete the Cat: Falling for Autumn, by Kimberly and James Dean, $1.99. Pete is bummed out that summer is ending, but a trip around a farm helps him to see all the good things about autumn. It’s a simple story packed full of useful information about fall produce and other activities.
Flora and the Flamingo, by Molly Idle, $1.99. Another fun wordless book! Flora is a budding dancer. When she encounters a flamingo, they both learn moves from each other. The illustrations are exuberant and charming, and kids can make up the words as they go. Many will be delighted to try to recreate Flora’s dances!
Hello Hello, by Brendan Wenzel, $1.99. I love Wenzel’s other book, They All Saw a Cat, which is all about differences in perception. Hello Hello is another great book about animals. Each page has a new animal that is connected to the previous animal by a shared trait (color, physical feature, etc.). The text is simple, but the concept is fodder for some great discussions! There’s an excellent conservation message at the end, along with a list of all the animals featured and their conservation statuses.
Fossil, by Bill Thomson, $0.99. This book is a great language arts opportunity! The story is told through vivid illustrations, but without words. Kids can create their own narrative about a child who discovers a fossil on the beach that comes to life when touched. At first, this is exciting, but when a pterodactyl carries away a dog, the kid must figure out how to return the creatures to their fossil state.
Bomb: The Race to Build — and Steal — the World’s Most Dangerous Weapon, by Steve Sheinkin, $2.99. Sheinkin writes great, engaging nonfiction books for younger readers, and Bomb is no exception. Here he tells the story of the German efforts to build an atomic bomb, and the rest of the world’s attempts to harness the new and powerful technology for themselves before the Germans had a chance to use it. There are spies, scientist, battles, and lots of intrigue in this middle grade/YA history.
Spare Parts: Four Undocumented Teenagers, One Ugly Robot, and the Battle for the American Dream, by Joshua Davis, $3.99. What a tremendous story! When a group of teens decides to enter a prestigious robotics competition, they are at a major disadvantage. They don’t have corporate sponsors or money to buy materials, and they need to keep a lower profile because all of them are undocumented. Through an incredible amount of perseverance, the team is able to successfully compete with their robot made primarily of scavenged and repurposed parts. There’s also a pretty good movie based on the same true story.
Knockout, by K.A. Holt, $1.99. Levi was chronically ill as a kid, but he has grown out of most of his issues and is sick of people treating him like he is fragile. When his father suggests that he try boxing, Levi sees a path to independence. This is a fast-paced novel-in-verse that will appeal to kids who are interested in sports. (It’s also a sequel to House Arrest, but it takes place 11 years later and reading the first book isn’t necessary.)
Isabel Feeney, Star Reporter, by Beth Fantaskey, $1.99. Middle grade readers will have a lot of fun with this historical mystery! Isabel sells newspapers on the corner, but she’s dreaming of becoming a famous reporter. When she stumbles upon an actual murder, she thinks it might be her big break! I haven’t found many engaging fiction books for kids set in the 1920s, and this one is particularly fun with its use of period slang.
Ender’s World: Fresh Perspectives on the SF Classic Ender’s Game, by Orson Scott Card and others, $3.99. Ender’s Game (not so much the sequels) is a masterpiece of YA literature, and a touchstone for many gifted kids. This collection of essays from big names in literature and and even military strategists offers a deeper dive into the Ender’s universe.
Theodore Gray’s Completely Mad Science: Experiments You Can Do at Home, But Probably Shouldn’t, by Theodore Gray, $2.99. In this case, I think the title really says it all. Gray is known for his gorgeous science books filled with detailed photographs and facts. He brings this style to a collection of wild experiments that highlight important scientific principles. Whether you should really make a Flaming Bacon Lance remains to be seen, but you’ll get clear instructions on how to do it (and why) in this fun book.
Enough As She Is: How to Help Girls Move Beyond Impossible Standards of Success to Live Healthy, Happy, and Fulfilling Lives, by Rachel Simmons, $1.99. Rachel Simmons has written a follow up to Odd Girl Out. In this new book, she looks at the unreasonable standards girls and young women place on themselves and offers parents concrete guidance for reinforcing confidence.
The Testing, by Joelle Charbonneau, $1.99. Calling all fans of The Hunger Games or Divergent! This series should scratch that dystopian coming-of-age itch. Here’s a summary from the publisher: “It’s graduation day for sixteen-year-old Malencia Vale, and the entire Five Lakes Colony (the former Great Lakes) is celebrating. All Cia can think about—hope for—is whether she’ll be chosen for The Testing, a United Commonwealth program that selects the best and brightest new graduates to become possible leaders of the slowly revitalizing post-war civilization. When Cia is chosen, her father finally tells her about his own nightmarish half-memories of The Testing. Armed with his dire warnings (“Cia, trust no one”), she bravely heads off to Tosu City, far away from friends and family, perhaps forever. Danger, romance—and sheer terror—await.”
Elatsoe, by Darcy Little Badger, $2.99. This award-winning fantasy novel presents a fresh and unique voice. From the publisher: “Elatsoe—Ellie for short—lives in an alternate contemporary America shaped by the ancestral magics and knowledge of its Indigenous and immigrant groups. She can raise the spirits of dead animals—most importantly, her ghost dog Kirby. When her beloved cousin dies, all signs point to a car crash, but his ghost tells her otherwise: He was murdered. Who killed him and how did he die? With the help of her family, her best friend Jay, and the memory great, great, great, great, great, great grandmother, Elatsoe, must track down the killer and unravel the mystery of this creepy town and its dark past. But will the nefarious townsfolk and a mysterious Doctor stop her before she gets started? A breathtaking debut novel featuring an asexual, Apache teen protagonist, Elatsoe combines mystery, horror, noir, ancestral knowledge, haunting illustrations, fantasy elements, and is one of the most-talked about debuts of the year.”
I Know What You Did Last Summer, by Lois Duncan, $2.99. Lois Duncan is a master of classic YA suspense. The stakes are very high in this 1970s novel about teens trying to evade a mysterious stranger who is out to punish them for a hit-and-run accident. I can’t remember enough about the 1990s movie adaptation to specifically recommend it, but if you have a suspense/horror fan, you could do a book-movie comparison!
Dog Days, by Karen English, $1.99. You may have encountered English’s previous early chapter book series, Nikki and Deja. The Carver Chronicles is set in that same universe but centers boys’ stories! Dog Days is about Gavin, a new kid who loves skateboarding. When he is assigned care of his great-aunt’s fussy Pomeranian as a consequence for getting into trouble, he worries no one will ever think he is cool with the dog in tow. Short chapters and dynamic illustrations make this one a fun read.
Booked: A Traveler’s Guide to Literary Locations Around the World, by Richard Kreitner, $3.99. If you’ve ever wanted to visit the setting of your favorite book, you will want to pick up this travel guide. Kreitner has selected places made famous in children’s and adult literature, both in the US and abroad. He includes short passages from the books in question, along with a discussion of the significance of each place and practical tips for visiting.
Howl’s Moving Castle, by Diana Wynne Jones, $3.50. Amy used this book and others to create a massive Studio Ghibli unit study. Here is her review: “Sometimes a curse can be just what you needed, as Sophie discovers in this delightful fantasy about a hat maker's daughter who's cursed to premature old age by the Witch of the Waste. To break the curse, Sophie will need to team up with the mysterious wizard Howl, who happens to be stuck under a curse of his own—but first, she'll have to get to his castle, which has a habit of wandering around. I love this as a readaloud, on its own, or (of course) a companion piece to the equally wonderful (though often quite different) movie adaptation.”
Stinkiest! 20 Smelly Animals, by Steve Jenkins, $3.99. Can you name 20 smelly animals? I’m not sure I could without reading this fun picture book. There’s a skunk on the cover, but Jenkins introduces readers to opossoms, hoopoes, millipedes, and lots of other big and little stinkers. If your kids are into gross facts (and who isn’t?), they will have a great time with this book.
Seeing Science: An Illustrated Guide to the Wonders of the Universe, by Iris Gottlieb, $2.99. This book is really cool. Gottlieb is an illustrator who is fascinated by the natural world. She brings her unique blend of cartoon and realism to topics in biology, earth science, and physics. The result is a charming and and detailed look at many interesting aspects of science. Visual learners and science fans will love this. The topics range from basic (how we know something is alive) to theoretical and complex (quantum superposition).
Art Before Breakfast: A Zillion Ways to be More Creative No Matter How Busy You Are, by Danny Gregory, $2.99. My daughter loves doing art and fills lots of her spare time making things. I’ve never considered myself an artist and struggle to find time to develop my skills. This book is a great place to start. Danny Gregory has created short, fun activities that take 10 minutes or less. They will encourage you to make art a regular part of your life. This book is a great way to add some art education to your homeschool, or to carve out a bit of time for your own creativity.
How Art Can Make You Happy, by Bridget Watson Payne, $1.99. A lot of homeschoolers I know have trouble working art into their education plans. This little book can help to bring some fresh ideas to your school year! With a focus on finding joy in experiencing and making art, this collection of tips, quotes, and pep talks is useful and inspiring.
How to Write a Story, by Kate Messner, $1.99. I love this picture book! It’s a step-by-step guide to writing a story, from brainstorming an idea to putting a polished version down on paper. It’s definitely educational, but not the least bit boring. The illustrations follow a girl as she creates her own very exciting story involving dragons and sea monsters.
Nordic Tales: Folktales from Norway, Sweden, Finland, Iceland, and Denmark, by Chronicle Books, $2.99. These folktales are full of trolls, ogres, dragons, and other creatures. A few are familiar, but most are not well know in the U.S. You’ll find tales of trickery, transformation, and travel in this charmingly illustrated collection.
The Brothers Grimm: Illuminated Fairy Tales, by The Brothers Grimm, $1.99. Occasionally you find a book that is uniquely designed for the ebook format. This collection of Grimm Fairy Tales is beautifully illustrated, with subtly animated elements! As you read, you can watch the witch threaten Hansel and Gretel. Each story is illustrated in a different artist, and you could compare and contrast their styles for a fun art lesson.
The Jane Austen Handbook, by Margaret Sullivan, $2.99. Both Austen newbies and proper Janeites will find this delightful little guidebook very useful. A light, tongue-in-cheek tone pairs well with a serious vault of knowledge about Regency England. Not sure whether a Marquis outranks a Duke? Or how rich Mr. Darcy would be in modern terms? This book will help fill in all the gaps.
Who is Greta Thunberg? by Jill Leonard, $4.99. Get to know Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg in this elementary biography. From the publisher: “When she was just fifteen years old, Greta Thunberg knew she wanted to change the world. With a hand-painted sign that read "School strike for the climate" in Swedish, Greta sat alone on the steps of the Swedish parliament to call for stronger action on climate change. Her one-person strike would soon spark a worldwide movement. This exciting story details the defining moments in Greta's childhood that led up to her now-famous strike and all the monumental ones that have fueled her revolution since, including being named Time's Most Influential Person of the Year in 2019.”
Molecules: The Elements and Architecture of Everything, by Theodore Gray, $0.99. If you’ve already gotten to know the periodic elements, it is time to step up to learning about molecules. Theodore Gray starts by explaining the basics of bonding and how bond types affect physical structure. The rest of the book is made up of profiles of different compounds, detailing their composition, usage, and history. As in all of Gray’s books, there are copious detailed photo illustrations.
Ripped From the Headlines: The Shocking True Stories Behind the Movies’ Most Memorable Crimes, by Harold Schechter, $1.99. So many of the plotlines from famous movies have been taken from true-life events. Historian Harold Schechter reveals all the fascinating stories behind films like Scream, Psycho, and Dirty Harry. This is a fun exploration for true crime fans and movie buffs alike!
Tasting the World: One Country at a Time, by Nicole O’Donnell, $2.99. This book is so cool! O’Donnell has collected recipes from more than 200 countries. I wish there were pictures, but I do appreciate her ratings system for ease of preparation, availability of ingredients, and degree of divergence from American flavor profiles. Pair this book with your geography lessons for a delicious enrichment.
Recipes from the World of Tolkein: Inspired by the Legends, by Robert Tuesley Anderson, $1.99. Supplement your reading to The Lord of the Rings with some “authentic” recipes! This small volume has many recipes (Brandywine Fish Pie, Beorn’s Twice-Baked Cakes) and beautiful watercolor illustrations. Essays about the importance of food in Middle Earth make for delicious reading.
The Classical Music Book, by DK Publishing, $1.99. This book is overflowing with music history information. Inside, you’ll find details about famous (and less famous) composers, instruments, musical styles, and much much more.
Nicola and the Viscount, by Meg Cabot, $1.99. Meg Cabot, who you may know from The Princess Diaries, is back with a historical YA romance. Here’s the publisher’s description: “Nicola Sparks, sixteen and an orphan, is ready to dive headlong into her first glittering London society season. She's also ready to dive headlong into the arms of handsome and debonair Lord Sebastian Bartholomew. Nicola's dream is a proposal from the viscount—a dream she's about to realize at last! So naturally, Nathaniel Sheridan's insinuations about her fiancé's flawed character annoy her mightily. But when Nicola's natural curiosity gets the best of her, she begins to piece together a few things for herself. To her great surprise, Nicola realizes she's had the wrong viscount all along . . . but is it too late to make things right?”
Her Right Foot, by Dave Eggers, $2.99. This beautiful picture book takes a look at the history of the Statue of Liberty. More than that, Eggers uses the statue to address the inherent freedoms that form the basis of American culture and government. Shawn Harris’s mixed-media illustrations are simple but visually interesting.
Kindle Deals for September 8, 2021
Picture book fun!
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.
Fossil, by Bill Thomson, $0.99. This book is a great language arts opportunity! The story is told through vivid illustrations, but without words. Kids can create their own narrative about a child who discovers a fossil on the beach that comes to life when touched. At first, this is exciting, but when a pterodactyl carries away a dog, the kid must figure out how to return the creatures to their fossil state.
Hello Hello, by Brendan Wenzel, $1.99. I love Wenzel’s other book, They All Saw a Cat, which is all about differences in perception. Hello Hello is another great book about animals. Each page has a new animal that is connected to the previous animal by a shared trait (color, physical feature, etc.). The text is simple, but the concept is fodder for some great discussions! There’s an excellent conservation message at the end, along with a list of all the animals featured and their conservation statuses.
Flora and the Flamingo, by Molly Idle, $1.99. Another fun wordless book! Flora is a budding dancer. When she encounters a flamingo, they both learn moves from each other. The illustrations are exuberant and charming, and kids can make up the words as they go. Many will be delighted to try to recreate Flora’s dances!
Pete the Cat: Falling for Autumn, by Kimberly and James Dean, $1.99. Pete is bummed out that summer is ending, but a trip around a farm helps him to see all the good things about autumn. It’s a simple story packed full of useful information about fall produce and other activities.
STILL ON SALE
DKFindOut Engineering, by DK Publishing, $1.99. After you’ve read some fun picture books about machinery, pick up this nonfiction book for some fascinating details. Elementary-age kids will be able to read this one on their own to learn about simple machines, roller coasters, engineering for space, cars, robots, and many more topics. As always, the DK books are filled with photo illustrations, break out boxes, and bright colors.
Bomb: The Race to Build — and Steal — the World’s Most Dangerous Weapon, by Steve Sheinkin, $2.99. Sheinkin writes great, engaging nonfiction books for younger readers, and Bomb is no exception. Here he tells the story of the German efforts to build an atomic bomb, and the rest of the world’s attempts to harness the new and powerful technology for themselves before the Germans had a chance to use it. There are spies, scientist, battles, and lots of intrigue in this middle grade/YA history.
Spare Parts: Four Undocumented Teenagers, One Ugly Robot, and the Battle for the American Dream, by Joshua Davis, $3.99. What a tremendous story! When a group of teens decides to enter a prestigious robotics competition, they are at a major disadvantage. They don’t have corporate sponsors or money to buy materials, and they need to keep a lower profile because all of them are undocumented. Through an incredible amount of perseverance, the team is able to successfully compete with their robot made primarily of scavenged and repurposed parts. There’s also a pretty good movie based on the same true story.
Knockout, by K.A. Holt, $1.99. Levi was chronically ill as a kid, but he has grown out of most of his issues and is sick of people treating him like he is fragile. When his father suggests that he try boxing, Levi sees a path to independence. This is a fast-paced novel-in-verse that will appeal to kids who are interested in sports. (It’s also a sequel to House Arrest, but it takes place 11 years later and reading the first book isn’t necessary.)
Isabel Feeney, Star Reporter, by Beth Fantaskey, $1.99. Middle grade readers will have a lot of fun with this historical mystery! Isabel sells newspapers on the corner, but she’s dreaming of becoming a famous reporter. When she stumbles upon an actual murder, she thinks it might be her big break! I haven’t found many engaging fiction books for kids set in the 1920s, and this one is particularly fun with its use of period slang.
Ender’s World: Fresh Perspectives on the SF Classic Ender’s Game, by Orson Scott Card and others, $3.99. Ender’s Game (not so much the sequels) is a masterpiece of YA literature, and a touchstone for many gifted kids. This collection of essays from big names in literature and and even military strategists offers a deeper dive into the Ender’s universe.
Theodore Gray’s Completely Mad Science: Experiments You Can Do at Home, But Probably Shouldn’t, by Theodore Gray, $2.99. In this case, I think the title really says it all. Gray is known for his gorgeous science books filled with detailed photographs and facts. He brings this style to a collection of wild experiments that highlight important scientific principles. Whether you should really make a Flaming Bacon Lance remains to be seen, but you’ll get clear instructions on how to do it (and why) in this fun book.
Enough As She Is: How to Help Girls Move Beyond Impossible Standards of Success to Live Healthy, Happy, and Fulfilling Lives, by Rachel Simmons, $1.99. Rachel Simmons has written a follow up to Odd Girl Out. In this new book, she looks at the unreasonable standards girls and young women place on themselves and offers parents concrete guidance for reinforcing confidence.
The Testing, by Joelle Charbonneau, $1.99. Calling all fans of The Hunger Games or Divergent! This series should scratch that dystopian coming-of-age itch. Here’s a summary from the publisher: “It’s graduation day for sixteen-year-old Malencia Vale, and the entire Five Lakes Colony (the former Great Lakes) is celebrating. All Cia can think about—hope for—is whether she’ll be chosen for The Testing, a United Commonwealth program that selects the best and brightest new graduates to become possible leaders of the slowly revitalizing post-war civilization. When Cia is chosen, her father finally tells her about his own nightmarish half-memories of The Testing. Armed with his dire warnings (“Cia, trust no one”), she bravely heads off to Tosu City, far away from friends and family, perhaps forever. Danger, romance—and sheer terror—await.”
Elatsoe, by Darcy Little Badger, $2.99. This award-winning fantasy novel presents a fresh and unique voice. From the publisher: “Elatsoe—Ellie for short—lives in an alternate contemporary America shaped by the ancestral magics and knowledge of its Indigenous and immigrant groups. She can raise the spirits of dead animals—most importantly, her ghost dog Kirby. When her beloved cousin dies, all signs point to a car crash, but his ghost tells her otherwise: He was murdered. Who killed him and how did he die? With the help of her family, her best friend Jay, and the memory great, great, great, great, great, great grandmother, Elatsoe, must track down the killer and unravel the mystery of this creepy town and its dark past. But will the nefarious townsfolk and a mysterious Doctor stop her before she gets started? A breathtaking debut novel featuring an asexual, Apache teen protagonist, Elatsoe combines mystery, horror, noir, ancestral knowledge, haunting illustrations, fantasy elements, and is one of the most-talked about debuts of the year.”
I Know What You Did Last Summer, by Lois Duncan, $2.99. Lois Duncan is a master of classic YA suspense. The stakes are very high in this 1970s novel about teens trying to evade a mysterious stranger who is out to punish them for a hit-and-run accident. I can’t remember enough about the 1990s movie adaptation to specifically recommend it, but if you have a suspense/horror fan, you could do a book-movie comparison!
Prairie Lotus, by Linda Sue Park, $2.99. If your kids enjoy Little House on the Prairie but you are looking to increase the diversity of your reading list, you should definitely pick up this one! Hanna is an Asian girl living in a small prairie town in 1880. She wants to make friends and go to school, but the racism of the other townspeople make her existence hard. Park doesn’t shrink from the harsh realities of history, but the story is touching and funny.
Dog Days, by Karen English, $1.99. You may have encountered English’s previous early chapter book series, Nikki and Deja. The Carver Chronicles is set in that same universe but centers boys’ stories! Dog Days is about Gavin, a new kid who loves skateboarding. When he is assigned care of his great-aunt’s fussy Pomeranian as a consequence for getting into trouble, he worries no one will ever think he is cool with the dog in tow. Short chapters and dynamic illustrations make this one a fun read.
Booked: A Traveler’s Guide to Literary Locations Around the World, by Richard Kreitner, $3.99. If you’ve ever wanted to visit the setting of your favorite book, you will want to pick up this travel guide. Kreitner has selected places made famous in children’s and adult literature, both in the US and abroad. He includes short passages from the books in question, along with a discussion of the significance of each place and practical tips for visiting.
Howl’s Moving Castle, by Diana Wynne Jones, $3.50. Amy used this book and others to create a massive Studio Ghibli unit study. Here is her review: “Sometimes a curse can be just what you needed, as Sophie discovers in this delightful fantasy about a hat maker's daughter who's cursed to premature old age by the Witch of the Waste. To break the curse, Sophie will need to team up with the mysterious wizard Howl, who happens to be stuck under a curse of his own—but first, she'll have to get to his castle, which has a habit of wandering around. I love this as a readaloud, on its own, or (of course) a companion piece to the equally wonderful (though often quite different) movie adaptation.”
Stinkiest! 20 Smelly Animals, by Steve Jenkins, $3.99. Can you name 20 smelly animals? I’m not sure I could without reading this fun picture book. There’s a skunk on the cover, but Jenkins introduces readers to opossoms, hoopoes, millipedes, and lots of other big and little stinkers. If your kids are into gross facts (and who isn’t?), they will have a great time with this book.
Seeing Science: An Illustrated Guide to the Wonders of the Universe, by Iris Gottlieb, $2.99. This book is really cool. Gottlieb is an illustrator who is fascinated by the natural world. She brings her unique blend of cartoon and realism to topics in biology, earth science, and physics. The result is a charming and and detailed look at many interesting aspects of science. Visual learners and science fans will love this. The topics range from basic (how we know something is alive) to theoretical and complex (quantum superposition).
Art Before Breakfast: A Zillion Ways to be More Creative No Matter How Busy You Are, by Danny Gregory, $2.99. My daughter loves doing art and fills lots of her spare time making things. I’ve never considered myself an artist and struggle to find time to develop my skills. This book is a great place to start. Danny Gregory has created short, fun activities that take 10 minutes or less. They will encourage you to make art a regular part of your life. This book is a great way to add some art education to your homeschool, or to carve out a bit of time for your own creativity.
How Art Can Make You Happy, by Bridget Watson Payne, $1.99. A lot of homeschoolers I know have trouble working art into their education plans. This little book can help to bring some fresh ideas to your school year! With a focus on finding joy in experiencing and making art, this collection of tips, quotes, and pep talks is useful and inspiring.
How to Write a Story, by Kate Messner, $1.99. I love this picture book! It’s a step-by-step guide to writing a story, from brainstorming an idea to putting a polished version down on paper. It’s definitely educational, but not the least bit boring. The illustrations follow a girl as she creates her own very exciting story involving dragons and sea monsters.
The Princess Rules: It’s a Prince Thing, by Philippa Gregory, $0.99. Being a princess comes with a long list of rules and expectations. But in Florizella’s kingdom, princes can do whatever they want. When the stork delivers a baby boy to the palace, Princess Florizella is determined to show her brother all the wonders of the kingdom… and to fight the customs that give boys options and girls restrictions. You may know Philippa Gregory for her richly detailed adult historical fiction. She brings the same skill to this series for early middle-grade readers.
Nordic Tales: Folktales from Norway, Sweden, Finland, Iceland, and Denmark, by Chronicle Books, $2.99. These folktales are full of trolls, ogres, dragons, and other creatures. A few are familiar, but most are not well know in the U.S. You’ll find tales of trickery, transformation, and travel in this charmingly illustrated collection.
The Brothers Grimm: Illuminated Fairy Tales, by The Brothers Grimm, $1.99. Occasionally you find a book that is uniquely designed for the ebook format. This collection of Grimm Fairy Tales is beautifully illustrated, with subtly animated elements! As you read, you can watch the witch threaten Hansel and Gretel. Each story is illustrated in a different artist, and you could compare and contrast their styles for a fun art lesson.
The Jane Austen Handbook, by Margaret Sullivan, $2.99. Both Austen newbies and proper Janeites will find this delightful little guidebook very useful. A light, tongue-in-cheek tone pairs well with a serious vault of knowledge about Regency England. Not sure whether a Marquis outranks a Duke? Or how rich Mr. Darcy would be in modern terms? This book will help fill in all the gaps.
Who is Greta Thunberg? by Jill Leonard, $4.99. Get to know Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg in this elementary biography. From the publisher: “When she was just fifteen years old, Greta Thunberg knew she wanted to change the world. With a hand-painted sign that read "School strike for the climate" in Swedish, Greta sat alone on the steps of the Swedish parliament to call for stronger action on climate change. Her one-person strike would soon spark a worldwide movement. This exciting story details the defining moments in Greta's childhood that led up to her now-famous strike and all the monumental ones that have fueled her revolution since, including being named Time's Most Influential Person of the Year in 2019.”
Molecules: The Elements and Architecture of Everything, by Theodore Gray, $0.99. If you’ve already gotten to know the periodic elements, it is time to step up to learning about molecules. Theodore Gray starts by explaining the basics of bonding and how bond types affect physical structure. The rest of the book is made up of profiles of different compounds, detailing their composition, usage, and history. As in all of Gray’s books, there are copious detailed photo illustrations.
Ripped From the Headlines: The Shocking True Stories Behind the Movies’ Most Memorable Crimes, by Harold Schechter, $1.99. So many of the plotlines from famous movies have been taken from true-life events. Historian Harold Schechter reveals all the fascinating stories behind films like Scream, Psycho, and Dirty Harry. This is a fun exploration for true crime fans and movie buffs alike!
Tasting the World: One Country at a Time, by Nicole O’Donnell, $2.99. This book is so cool! O’Donnell has collected recipes from more than 200 countries. I wish there were pictures, but I do appreciate her ratings system for ease of preparation, availability of ingredients, and degree of divergence from American flavor profiles. Pair this book with your geography lessons for a delicious enrichment.
Recipes from the World of Tolkein: Inspired by the Legends, by Robert Tuesley Anderson, $1.99. Supplement your reading to The Lord of the Rings with some “authentic” recipes! This small volume has many recipes (Brandywine Fish Pie, Beorn’s Twice-Baked Cakes) and beautiful watercolor illustrations. Essays about the importance of food in Middle Earth make for delicious reading.
The Classical Music Book, by DK Publishing, $1.99. This book is overflowing with music history information. Inside, you’ll find details about famous (and less famous) composers, instruments, musical styles, and much much more.
Nicola and the Viscount, by Meg Cabot, $1.99. Meg Cabot, who you may know from The Princess Diaries, is back with a historical YA romance. Here’s the publisher’s description: “Nicola Sparks, sixteen and an orphan, is ready to dive headlong into her first glittering London society season. She's also ready to dive headlong into the arms of handsome and debonair Lord Sebastian Bartholomew. Nicola's dream is a proposal from the viscount—a dream she's about to realize at last! So naturally, Nathaniel Sheridan's insinuations about her fiancé's flawed character annoy her mightily. But when Nicola's natural curiosity gets the best of her, she begins to piece together a few things for herself. To her great surprise, Nicola realizes she's had the wrong viscount all along . . . but is it too late to make things right?”
Her Right Foot, by Dave Eggers, $2.99. This beautiful picture book takes a look at the history of the Statue of Liberty. More than that, Eggers uses the statue to address the inherent freedoms that form the basis of American culture and government. Shawn Harris’s mixed-media illustrations are simple but visually interesting.
Kindle Deals for September 7, 2021
Books about inventing and engineering
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.
DKFindOut Engineering, by DK Publishing, $1.99. After you’ve read some fun picture books about machinery, pick up this nonfiction book for some fascinating details. Elementary-age kids will be able to read this one on their own to learn about simple machines, roller coasters, engineering for space, cars, robots, and many more topics. As always, the DK books are filled with photo illustrations, break out boxes, and bright colors.
Bomb: The Race to Build — and Steal — the World’s Most Dangerous Weapon, by Steve Sheinkin, $2.99. Sheinkin writes great, engaging nonfiction books for younger readers, and Bomb is no exception. Here he tells the story of the German efforts to build an atomic bomb, and the rest of the world’s attempts to harness the new and powerful technology for themselves before the Germans had a chance to use it. There are spies, scientist, battles, and lots of intrigue in this middle grade/YA history.
Spare Parts: Four Undocumented Teenagers, One Ugly Robot, and the Battle for the American Dream, by Joshua Davis, $3.99. What a tremendous story! When a group of teens decides to enter a prestigious robotics competition, they are at a major disadvantage. They don’t have corporate sponsors or money to buy materials, and they need to keep a lower profile because all of them are undocumented. Through an incredible amount of perseverance, the team is able to successfully compete with their robot made primarily of scavenged and repurposed parts. There’s also a pretty good movie based on the same true story.
Inventology: How We Dream Up Things that Change the World, by Pagan Kennedy, $1.99. Pagan Kennedy is fascinated by inventions and inventors. By studying the processes that led to some of today’s significant devices, Kennedy has discovered the environments and methods that produce successful innovation.
STILL ON SALE
Knockout, by K.A. Holt, $1.99. Levi was chronically ill as a kid, but he has grown out of most of his issues and is sick of people treating him like he is fragile. When his father suggests that he try boxing, Levi sees a path to independence. This is a fast-paced novel-in-verse that will appeal to kids who are interested in sports. (It’s also a sequel to House Arrest, but it takes place 11 years later and reading the first book isn’t necessary.)
Isabel Feeney, Star Reporter, by Beth Fantaskey, $1.99. Middle grade readers will have a lot of fun with this historical mystery! Isabel sells newspapers on the corner, but she’s dreaming of becoming a famous reporter. When she stumbles upon an actual murder, she thinks it might be her big break! I haven’t found many engaging fiction books for kids set in the 1920s, and this one is particularly fun with its use of period slang.
Ender’s World: Fresh Perspectives on the SF Classic Ender’s Game, by Orson Scott Card and others, $3.99. Ender’s Game (not so much the sequels) is a masterpiece of YA literature, and a touchstone for many gifted kids. This collection of essays from big names in literature and and even military strategists offers a deeper dive into the Ender’s universe.
Theodore Gray’s Completely Mad Science: Experiments You Can Do at Home, But Probably Shouldn’t, by Theodore Gray, $2.99. In this case, I think the title really says it all. Gray is known for his gorgeous science books filled with detailed photographs and facts. He brings this style to a collection of wild experiments that highlight important scientific principles. Whether you should really make a Flaming Bacon Lance remains to be seen, but you’ll get clear instructions on how to do it (and why) in this fun book.
Nick and Tesla’s High-Voltage Danger Lab, by Bob Pflugfelder, $2.99. Your junior scientist and engineers will love these high-action tales that also contain instructions for making the same mechanical creations as Nick and Tesla. Many of the projects can be accomplished with things you probably already have around the house.
Enough As She Is: How to Help Girls Move Beyond Impossible Standards of Success to Live Healthy, Happy, and Fulfilling Lives, by Rachel Simmons, $1.99. Rachel Simmons has written a follow up to Odd Girl Out. In this new book, she looks at the unreasonable standards girls and young women place on themselves and offers parents concrete guidance for reinforcing confidence.
The Testing, by Joelle Charbonneau, $1.99. Calling all fans of The Hunger Games or Divergent! This series should scratch that dystopian coming-of-age itch. Here’s a summary from the publisher: “It’s graduation day for sixteen-year-old Malencia Vale, and the entire Five Lakes Colony (the former Great Lakes) is celebrating. All Cia can think about—hope for—is whether she’ll be chosen for The Testing, a United Commonwealth program that selects the best and brightest new graduates to become possible leaders of the slowly revitalizing post-war civilization. When Cia is chosen, her father finally tells her about his own nightmarish half-memories of The Testing. Armed with his dire warnings (“Cia, trust no one”), she bravely heads off to Tosu City, far away from friends and family, perhaps forever. Danger, romance—and sheer terror—await.”
Elatsoe, by Darcy Little Badger, $2.99. This award-winning fantasy novel presents a fresh and unique voice. From the publisher: “Elatsoe—Ellie for short—lives in an alternate contemporary America shaped by the ancestral magics and knowledge of its Indigenous and immigrant groups. She can raise the spirits of dead animals—most importantly, her ghost dog Kirby. When her beloved cousin dies, all signs point to a car crash, but his ghost tells her otherwise: He was murdered. Who killed him and how did he die? With the help of her family, her best friend Jay, and the memory great, great, great, great, great, great grandmother, Elatsoe, must track down the killer and unravel the mystery of this creepy town and its dark past. But will the nefarious townsfolk and a mysterious Doctor stop her before she gets started? A breathtaking debut novel featuring an asexual, Apache teen protagonist, Elatsoe combines mystery, horror, noir, ancestral knowledge, haunting illustrations, fantasy elements, and is one of the most-talked about debuts of the year.”
I Know What You Did Last Summer, by Lois Duncan, $2.99. Lois Duncan is a master of classic YA suspense. The stakes are very high in this 1970s novel about teens trying to evade a mysterious stranger who is out to punish them for a hit-and-run accident. I can’t remember enough about the 1990s movie adaptation to specifically recommend it, but if you have a suspense/horror fan, you could do a book-movie comparison!
Do You Dream of Terra-Two? by Temi Oh, $1.99. This sci-fi book won the Alex prize for adult fiction of particular interested to YA readers. A team of teens and adult scientists is sent off on a 20-year mission to prepare a new planet for human colonization. Locked within the spaceship for decades, they must rely fully on each other for survival. Oh captures the alternating boredom and terror of a life in the unknown. Though the setting inextricably influences the story, the real plot is about the human interactions, not space itself.
Prairie Lotus, by Linda Sue Park, $2.99. If your kids enjoy Little House on the Prairie but you are looking to increase the diversity of your reading list, you should definitely pick up this one! Hanna is an Asian girl living in a small prairie town in 1880. She wants to make friends and go to school, but the racism of the other townspeople make her existence hard. Park doesn’t shrink from the harsh realities of history, but the story is touching and funny.
Dog Days, by Karen English, $1.99. You may have encountered English’s previous early chapter book series, Nikki and Deja. The Carver Chronicles is set in that same universe but centers boys’ stories! Dog Days is about Gavin, a new kid who loves skateboarding. When he is assigned care of his great-aunt’s fussy Pomeranian as a consequence for getting into trouble, he worries no one will ever think he is cool with the dog in tow. Short chapters and dynamic illustrations make this one a fun read.
Booked: A Traveler’s Guide to Literary Locations Around the World, by Richard Kreitner, $3.99. If you’ve ever wanted to visit the setting of your favorite book, you will want to pick up this travel guide. Kreitner has selected places made famous in children’s and adult literature, both in the US and abroad. He includes short passages from the books in question, along with a discussion of the significance of each place and practical tips for visiting.
Howl’s Moving Castle, by Diana Wynne Jones, $3.50. Amy used this book and others to create a massive Studio Ghibli unit study. Here is her review: “Sometimes a curse can be just what you needed, as Sophie discovers in this delightful fantasy about a hat maker's daughter who's cursed to premature old age by the Witch of the Waste. To break the curse, Sophie will need to team up with the mysterious wizard Howl, who happens to be stuck under a curse of his own—but first, she'll have to get to his castle, which has a habit of wandering around. I love this as a readaloud, on its own, or (of course) a companion piece to the equally wonderful (though often quite different) movie adaptation.”
Stinkiest! 20 Smelly Animals, by Steve Jenkins, $3.99. Can you name 20 smelly animals? I’m not sure I could without reading this fun picture book. There’s a skunk on the cover, but Jenkins introduces readers to opossoms, hoopoes, millipedes, and lots of other big and little stinkers. If your kids are into gross facts (and who isn’t?), they will have a great time with this book.
Seeing Science: An Illustrated Guide to the Wonders of the Universe, by Iris Gottlieb, $2.99. This book is really cool. Gottlieb is an illustrator who is fascinated by the natural world. She brings her unique blend of cartoon and realism to topics in biology, earth science, and physics. The result is a charming and and detailed look at many interesting aspects of science. Visual learners and science fans will love this. The topics range from basic (how we know something is alive) to theoretical and complex (quantum superposition).
Art Before Breakfast: A Zillion Ways to be More Creative No Matter How Busy You Are, by Danny Gregory, $2.99. My daughter loves doing art and fills lots of her spare time making things. I’ve never considered myself an artist and struggle to find time to develop my skills. This book is a great place to start. Danny Gregory has created short, fun activities that take 10 minutes or less. They will encourage you to make art a regular part of your life. This book is a great way to add some art education to your homeschool, or to carve out a bit of time for your own creativity.
How Art Can Make You Happy, by Bridget Watson Payne, $1.99. A lot of homeschoolers I know have trouble working art into their education plans. This little book can help to bring some fresh ideas to your school year! With a focus on finding joy in experiencing and making art, this collection of tips, quotes, and pep talks is useful and inspiring.
How to Write a Story, by Kate Messner, $1.99. I love this picture book! It’s a step-by-step guide to writing a story, from brainstorming an idea to putting a polished version down on paper. It’s definitely educational, but not the least bit boring. The illustrations follow a girl as she creates her own very exciting story involving dragons and sea monsters.
Royal Academy Rebels: Misfits, by Jen Calonita, $0.99. Devin wants to be a veterinarian, but alas, she was born a princess and must attend the Royal Academy. At this prestigious boarding school for future rulers, Devin and her fellow classmates will learn all they need to know, but their headmistress seems very worried about the possibility of an attack. Are they in danger? Note: This book ends in the middle of the action, so be prepared to seek out the second book in the series right away!
The Princess Rules: It’s a Prince Thing, by Philippa Gregory, $0.99. Being a princess comes with a long list of rules and expectations. But in Florizella’s kingdom, princes can do whatever they want. When the stork delivers a baby boy to the palace, Princess Florizella is determined to show her brother all the wonders of the kingdom… and to fight the customs that give boys options and girls restrictions. You may know Philippa Gregory for her richly detailed adult historical fiction. She brings the same skill to this series for early middle-grade readers.
Nordic Tales: Folktales from Norway, Sweden, Finland, Iceland, and Denmark, by Chronicle Books, $2.99. These folktales are full of trolls, ogres, dragons, and other creatures. A few are familiar, but most are not well know in the U.S. You’ll find tales of trickery, transformation, and travel in this charmingly illustrated collection.
The Brothers Grimm: Illuminated Fairy Tales, by The Brothers Grimm, $1.99. Occasionally you find a book that is uniquely designed for the ebook format. This collection of Grimm Fairy Tales is beautifully illustrated, with subtly animated elements! As you read, you can watch the witch threaten Hansel and Gretel. Each story is illustrated in a different artist, and you could compare and contrast their styles for a fun art lesson.
The Jane Austen Handbook, by Margaret Sullivan, $2.99. Both Austen newbies and proper Janeites will find this delightful little guidebook very useful. A light, tongue-in-cheek tone pairs well with a serious vault of knowledge about Regency England. Not sure whether a Marquis outranks a Duke? Or how rich Mr. Darcy would be in modern terms? This book will help fill in all the gaps.
Who is Greta Thunberg? by Jill Leonard, $4.99. Get to know Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg in this elementary biography. From the publisher: “When she was just fifteen years old, Greta Thunberg knew she wanted to change the world. With a hand-painted sign that read "School strike for the climate" in Swedish, Greta sat alone on the steps of the Swedish parliament to call for stronger action on climate change. Her one-person strike would soon spark a worldwide movement. This exciting story details the defining moments in Greta's childhood that led up to her now-famous strike and all the monumental ones that have fueled her revolution since, including being named Time's Most Influential Person of the Year in 2019.”
Molecules: The Elements and Architecture of Everything, by Theodore Gray, $0.99. If you’ve already gotten to know the periodic elements, it is time to step up to learning about molecules. Theodore Gray starts by explaining the basics of bonding and how bond types affect physical structure. The rest of the book is made up of profiles of different compounds, detailing their composition, usage, and history. As in all of Gray’s books, there are copious detailed photo illustrations.
Ripped From the Headlines: The Shocking True Stories Behind the Movies’ Most Memorable Crimes, by Harold Schechter, $1.99. So many of the plotlines from famous movies have been taken from true-life events. Historian Harold Schechter reveals all the fascinating stories behind films like Scream, Psycho, and Dirty Harry. This is a fun exploration for true crime fans and movie buffs alike!
Tasting the World: One Country at a Time, by Nicole O’Donnell, $2.99. This book is so cool! O’Donnell has collected recipes from more than 200 countries. I wish there were pictures, but I do appreciate her ratings system for ease of preparation, availability of ingredients, and degree of divergence from American flavor profiles. Pair this book with your geography lessons for a delicious enrichment.
Recipes from the World of Tolkein: Inspired by the Legends, by Robert Tuesley Anderson, $1.99. Supplement your reading to The Lord of the Rings with some “authentic” recipes! This small volume has many recipes (Brandywine Fish Pie, Beorn’s Twice-Baked Cakes) and beautiful watercolor illustrations. Essays about the importance of food in Middle Earth make for delicious reading.
The Classical Music Book, by DK Publishing, $1.99. This book is overflowing with music history information. Inside, you’ll find details about famous (and less famous) composers, instruments, musical styles, and much much more.
Nicola and the Viscount, by Meg Cabot, $1.99. Meg Cabot, who you may know from The Princess Diaries, is back with a historical YA romance. Here’s the publisher’s description: “Nicola Sparks, sixteen and an orphan, is ready to dive headlong into her first glittering London society season. She's also ready to dive headlong into the arms of handsome and debonair Lord Sebastian Bartholomew. Nicola's dream is a proposal from the viscount—a dream she's about to realize at last! So naturally, Nathaniel Sheridan's insinuations about her fiancé's flawed character annoy her mightily. But when Nicola's natural curiosity gets the best of her, she begins to piece together a few things for herself. To her great surprise, Nicola realizes she's had the wrong viscount all along . . . but is it too late to make things right?”
Her Right Foot, by Dave Eggers, $2.99. This beautiful picture book takes a look at the history of the Statue of Liberty. More than that, Eggers uses the statue to address the inherent freedoms that form the basis of American culture and government. Shawn Harris’s mixed-media illustrations are simple but visually interesting.
Kindle Deals for August 31, 2021
High action middle-grade 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.)
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Isabel Feeney, Star Reporter, by Beth Fantaskey, $1.99. Middle grade readers will have a lot of fun with this historical mystery! Isabel sells newspapers on the corner, but she’s dreaming of becoming a famous reporter. When she stumbles upon an actual murder, she thinks it might be her big break! I haven’t found many engaging fiction books for kids set in the 1920s, and this one is particularly fun with its use of period slang.
Knockout, by K.A. Holt, $1.99. Levi was chronically ill as a kid, but he has grown out of most of his issues and is sick of people treating him like he is fragile. When his father suggests that he try boxing, Levi sees a path to independence. This is a fast-paced novel-in-verse that will appeal to kids who are interested in sports. (It’s also a sequel to House Arrest, but it takes place 11 years later and reading the first book isn’t necessary.)
The Magic Misfits, by Neil Patrick Harris, $2.99. My daughter loves this series, and the fourth book is now out! Beloved actor and magician Neil Patrick Harris has created a fast-paced adventure centered around street magicians. Middle grade readers will love the action and humor, plus the bonus codes, ciphers, and magic trick secrets.
Max Einstein: The Genius Experiment, by James Patterson and Chris Grabenstein, $1.99. James Patterson’s middle-grade books are the ultimate page turners for young readers. The high action and fast pace make them ideal for luring reluctant readers to keep going. From my favorite middle grader: “This interesting book with a female heroine encompasses intellect and science and captivating spy missions!”
STILL ON SALE
Ender’s World: Fresh Perspectives on the SF Classic Ender’s Game, by Orson Scott Card and others, $3.99. Ender’s Game (not so much the sequels) is a masterpiece of YA literature, and a touchstone for many gifted kids. This collection of essays from big names in literature and and even military strategists offers a deeper dive into the Ender’s universe.
Theodore Gray’s Completely Mad Science: Experiments You Can Do at Home, But Probably Shouldn’t, by Theodore Gray, $2.99. In this case, I think the title really says it all. Gray is known for his gorgeous science books filled with detailed photographs and facts. He brings this style to a collection of wild experiments that highlight important scientific principles. Whether you should really make a Flaming Bacon Lance remains to be seen, but you’ll get clear instructions on how to do it (and why) in this fun book.
Cockpit Confidential: Everything You Need to Know About Air Travel, by Patrick Smith, $2.51. It’s been more than a year since I was on a plane, but I remember traveling with a kid who wanted to know how everything at the airport worked. If you know a kid (or grownup) like that, I have the book for you! Smith is a pilot with lots of inside information about aerodynamics, security, baggage logistics, plane food, and much more.
Nick and Tesla’s High-Voltage Danger Lab, by Bob Pflugfelder, $2.99. Your junior scientist and engineers will love these high-action tales that also contain instructions for making the same mechanical creations as Nick and Tesla. Many of the projects can be accomplished with things you probably already have around the house.
All the Rage: Mothers, Fathers, and the Myth of Equal Partnership, by Darcy Lockman, $1.99. Even in the most progressive of homeschooling circles, the vast majority of childcare and education falls to women. Lockman, a psychologist who started her career as a journalist, looks at both the history and current state of domestic labor. With case studies and social science research, Lockman highlights some of the societal factors that contribute to inequalities in caregiving, then asks “what can we do about it?”
Fed Up: Emotional Labor, Women, and the Way Forward, by Gemma Hartley, $1.99. I’ve been meaning to read this one. From the publisher: “In her ultra-viral article ‘Women Aren’t Nags—We’re Just Fed Up,’ shared by millions of readers, Gemma Hartley gave much-needed voice to the frustration and anger experienced by countless women. Now, in Fed Up, Hartley expands outward from the everyday frustrations of performing thankless emotional labor to illuminate how the expectation to do this work in all arenas—private and public—fuels gender inequality, limits our opportunities, steals our time, and adversely affects the quality of our lives. More than just name the problem, though, Hartley teases apart the cultural messaging that has led us here and asks how we can shift the load. Rejecting easy solutions that don’t ultimately move the needle, Hartley offers a nuanced, insightful guide to striking real balance, for true partnership in every aspect of our lives.”
To Have and To Hold: Motherhood, Marriage, and the Modern Dilemma, by Molly Millwood, $1.99. When women become parents, even in today’s society, their lives are heavily impacted. Millwood is a clinical psychologist who works with parents experience postpartum depression and the complicated emotions associated with changes in identity around parenting responsibilities. This book draws from her personal and clinical experiences to guide women through the joys and challenges of parenting.
Enough As She Is: How to Help Girls Move Beyond Impossible Standards of Success to Live Healthy, Happy, and Fulfilling Lives, by Rachel Simmons, $1.99. Rachel Simmons has written a follow up to Odd Girl Out. In this new book, she looks at the unreasonable standards girls and young women place on themselves and offers parents concrete guidance for reinforcing confidence.
The Testing, by Joelle Charbonneau, $1.99. Calling all fans of The Hunger Games or Divergent! This series should scratch that dystopian coming-of-age itch. Here’s a summary from the publisher: “It’s graduation day for sixteen-year-old Malencia Vale, and the entire Five Lakes Colony (the former Great Lakes) is celebrating. All Cia can think about—hope for—is whether she’ll be chosen for The Testing, a United Commonwealth program that selects the best and brightest new graduates to become possible leaders of the slowly revitalizing post-war civilization. When Cia is chosen, her father finally tells her about his own nightmarish half-memories of The Testing. Armed with his dire warnings (“Cia, trust no one”), she bravely heads off to Tosu City, far away from friends and family, perhaps forever. Danger, romance—and sheer terror—await.”
Elatsoe, by Darcy Little Badger, $2.99. This award-winning fantasy novel presents a fresh and unique voice. From the publisher: “Elatsoe—Ellie for short—lives in an alternate contemporary America shaped by the ancestral magics and knowledge of its Indigenous and immigrant groups. She can raise the spirits of dead animals—most importantly, her ghost dog Kirby. When her beloved cousin dies, all signs point to a car crash, but his ghost tells her otherwise: He was murdered. Who killed him and how did he die? With the help of her family, her best friend Jay, and the memory great, great, great, great, great, great grandmother, Elatsoe, must track down the killer and unravel the mystery of this creepy town and its dark past. But will the nefarious townsfolk and a mysterious Doctor stop her before she gets started? A breathtaking debut novel featuring an asexual, Apache teen protagonist, Elatsoe combines mystery, horror, noir, ancestral knowledge, haunting illustrations, fantasy elements, and is one of the most-talked about debuts of the year.”
I Know What You Did Last Summer, by Lois Duncan, $2.99. Lois Duncan is a master of classic YA suspense. The stakes are very high in this 1970s novel about teens trying to evade a mysterious stranger who is out to punish them for a hit-and-run accident. I can’t remember enough about the 1990s movie adaptation to specifically recommend it, but if you have a suspense/horror fan, you could do a book-movie comparison!
Do You Dream of Terra-Two? by Temi Oh, $1.99. This sci-fi book won the Alex prize for adult fiction of particular interested to YA readers. A team of teens and adult scientists is sent off on a 20-year mission to prepare a new planet for human colonization. Locked within the spaceship for decades, they must rely fully on each other for survival. Oh captures the alternating boredom and terror of a life in the unknown. Though the setting inextricably influences the story, the real plot is about the human interactions, not space itself.
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. For a more in-depth review, check out Amy’s Readaloud of the Week post!
My Family Divided, by Diane Guerrero, $2.99. Guerrero is known for her work on Orange is the New Black, but before she became an actress, she was a Latinx kid growing up near Boston. Diane was a citizen; her parents were not. One day, while Diane was at school, her parents were arrested and then deported. Since that time, she has been a passionate voice for immigration reform. My Family Divided is the young readers version of Guerrero’s memoir about her childhood and activism.
Prairie Lotus, by Linda Sue Park, $2.99. If your kids enjoy Little House on the Prairie but you are looking to increase the diversity of your reading list, you should definitely pick up this one! Hanna is an Asian girl living in a small prairie town in 1880. She wants to make friends and go to school, but the racism of the other townspeople make her existence hard. Park doesn’t shrink from the harsh realities of history, but the story is touching and funny.
Dog Days, by Karen English, $1.99. You may have encountered English’s previous early chapter book series, Nikki and Deja. The Carver Chronicles is set in that same universe but centers boys’ stories! Dog Days is about Gavin, a new kid who loves skateboarding. When he is assigned care of his great-aunt’s fussy Pomeranian as a consequence for getting into trouble, he worries no one will ever think he is cool with the dog in tow. Short chapters and dynamic illustrations make this one a fun read.
Jane Austen Cover to Cover: 200 Years of Classic Covers, by Margaret C. Sullivan, $3.99. Ok, I’ll admit it — this is a VERY specific book, but I know some of you will appreciate it. Sullivan has collected images of dozens of physical copies of Austen’s works. She provides an excellent chronology of their publication and reissue. If you are fascinated by book-binding, cover art, or Austen, you will love this book.
Booked: A Traveler’s Guide to Literary Locations Around the World, by Richard Kreitner, $3.99. If you’ve ever wanted to visit the setting of your favorite book, you will want to pick up this travel guide. Kreitner has selected places made famous in children’s and adult literature, both in the US and abroad. He includes short passages from the books in question, along with a discussion of the significance of each place and practical tips for visiting.
Dear Fahrenheit 451: Love and Heartbreak in the Stacks — A Librarian's Love Letters and Breakup Notes to the Books in Her Life, by Annie Spence, $2.99. Do we need another book about books? I’m going to go with yes. Annie Spence reads a lot, loves her books, and has interested takes on new and old classics. The first part of the book is hilarious letters to books of many genres and age ranges. Some are love letters, some are angry notes. The second second is full of essays about the joys and sorrows of reading and book lists in various categories.
Texts from Jane Eyre: And Other Conversations with Your Favorite Literary Characters, by Mallory Ortberg, $2.99. This fun, short book is a huge hit at HSL. It’s a collection of conversations with fictional characters, from Mr. Rochester to Daisy Buchanan. The conversations are clever, funny, and intelligent. I can’t think of another book that does a better job of encouraging readers to dig deep into the classics. If you’re well-read, you’ll get all the jokes. The conversation with Dido is one of my favorites.
Howl’s Moving Castle, by Diana Wynne Jones, $3.50. Amy used this book and others to create a massive Studio Ghibli unit study. Here is her review: “Sometimes a curse can be just what you needed, as Sophie discovers in this delightful fantasy about a hat maker's daughter who's cursed to premature old age by the Witch of the Waste. To break the curse, Sophie will need to team up with the mysterious wizard Howl, who happens to be stuck under a curse of his own—but first, she'll have to get to his castle, which has a habit of wandering around. I love this as a readaloud, on its own, or (of course) a companion piece to the equally wonderful (though often quite different) movie adaptation.”
Stinkiest! 20 Smelly Animals, by Steve Jenkins, $3.99. Can you name 20 smelly animals? I’m not sure I could without reading this fun picture book. There’s a skunk on the cover, but Jenkins introduces readers to opossoms, hoopoes, millipedes, and lots of other big and little stinkers. If your kids are into gross facts (and who isn’t?), they will have a great time with this book.
Seeing Science: An Illustrated Guide to the Wonders of the Universe, by Iris Gottlieb, $2.99. This book is really cool. Gottlieb is an illustrator who is fascinated by the natural world. She brings her unique blend of cartoon and realism to topics in biology, earth science, and physics. The result is a charming and and detailed look at many interesting aspects of science. Visual learners and science fans will love this. The topics range from basic (how we know something is alive) to theoretical and complex (quantum superposition).
Art Before Breakfast: A Zillion Ways to be More Creative No Matter How Busy You Are, by Danny Gregory, $2.99. My daughter loves doing art and fills lots of her spare time making things. I’ve never considered myself an artist and struggle to find time to develop my skills. This book is a great place to start. Danny Gregory has created short, fun activities that take 10 minutes or less. They will encourage you to make art a regular part of your life. This book is a great way to add some art education to your homeschool, or to carve out a bit of time for your own creativity.
How Art Can Make You Happy, by Bridget Watson Payne, $1.99. A lot of homeschoolers I know have trouble working art into their education plans. This little book can help to bring some fresh ideas to your school year! With a focus on finding joy in experiencing and making art, this collection of tips, quotes, and pep talks is useful and inspiring.
Grammar Girl’s 101 Words to Sound Smart, by Mignon Fogarty, $3.99. I really like Mignon Fogarty’s grammar guides. She is thorough but fun and quippy. This short book is a collection of interesting words (e.g., diaphanous and jejune) that are often thrown around by smart people. Each word gets a paragraph or two explaining what it means and one or more quotations offering examples of how to use it. You’ll find the book useful for beefing up SAT vocabulary and adding sophistication to high school writing.
The Emotion Thesaurus: A Writer’s Guide to Character Expression, by Angela Ackerman and Becca Puglisi, $1.49. As a word nerd, I find this book so cool! The authors cover more than 100 different emotional states and offer ideas for what it might look like if a character was experiencing them, or if they were trying to cover them up. This goes well beyond happy or angry; sections include horror, insecurity, and envy.
How to Write a Story, by Kate Messner, $1.99. I love this picture book! It’s a step-by-step guide to writing a story, from brainstorming an idea to putting a polished version down on paper. It’s definitely educational, but not the least bit boring. The illustrations follow a girl as she creates her own very exciting story involving dragons and sea monsters.
The Princess Will Save You, by Sarah Henning, $2.99. This action-packed YA novel has some definite Princess Bride vibes, but with a fierce twist. When Princess Amarande’s father dies, the ruler of a neighboring kingdom tries to force her into marriage by kidnapping her beloved. But Amarande is a warrior and is not going to go without a fight. The result is lots of swashbuckling, a bit of romance, betrayal, and bravery.
The Star-Touched Queen, by Roshani Chokshi, $2.99. This YA fantasy novel got a lot of buzz a few years ago. Here’s the publisher’s description: “Maya is cursed. With a horoscope that promises a marriage of Death and Destruction, she has earned only the scorn and fear of her father's kingdom. Content to follow more scholarly pursuits, her whole world is torn apart when her father, the Raja, arranges a wedding of political convenience to quell outside rebellions. Soon Maya becomes the queen of Akaran and wife of Amar. Neither roles are what she expected: As Akaran's queen, she finds her voice and power. As Amar's wife, she finds something else entirely: Compassion. Protection. Desire...
But Akaran has its own secrets -- thousands of locked doors, gardens of glass, and a tree that bears memories instead of fruit. Soon, Maya suspects her life is in danger. Yet who, besides her husband, can she trust? With the fate of the human and Otherworldly realms hanging in the balance, Maya must unravel an ancient mystery that spans reincarnated lives to save those she loves the most… including herself.”
Royal Academy Rebels: Misfits, by Jen Calonita, $0.99. Devin wants to be a veterinarian, but alas, she was born a princess and must attend the Royal Academy. At this prestigious boarding school for future rulers, Devin and her fellow classmates will learn all they need to know, but their headmistress seems very worried about the possibility of an attack. Are they in danger? Note: This book ends in the middle of the action, so be prepared to seek out the second book in the series right away!
The Princess Rules: It’s a Prince Thing, by Philippa Gregory, $0.99. Being a princess comes with a long list of rules and expectations. But in Florizella’s kingdom, princes can do whatever they want. When the stork delivers a baby boy to the palace, Princess Florizella is determined to show her brother all the wonders of the kingdom… and to fight the customs that give boys options and girls restrictions. You may know Philippa Gregory for her richly detailed adult historical fiction. She brings the same skill to this series for early middle-grade readers.
Demigods and Monsters: Your Favorite Authors on Rick Riordan’s Percy Jackson and the Olympians Series, edited by Rick Riordan, $3.99. This is a really fun essay collection about the world of Percy Jackson. 15 (mostly YA and science fiction) authors have come together to write about how to identify a monster when you see one, why humans are drawn to mythology, how Percy’s dyslexia and ADHD shape his character, and many other interesting topics. I know so many kids who have devoured every Riordan book (and all of the books from his publishing imprint); they will love this book!
Nordic Tales: Folktales from Norway, Sweden, Finland, Iceland, and Denmark, by Chronicle Books, $2.99. These folktales are full of trolls, ogres, dragons, and other creatures. A few are familiar, but most are not well know in the U.S. You’ll find tales of trickery, transformation, and travel in this charmingly illustrated collection.
The Brothers Grimm: Illuminated Fairy Tales, by The Brothers Grimm, $1.99. Occasionally you find a book that is uniquely designed for the ebook format. This collection of Grimm Fairy Tales is beautifully illustrated, with subtly animated elements! As you read, you can watch the witch threaten Hansel and Gretel. Each story is illustrated in a different artist, and you could compare and contrast their styles for a fun art lesson.
The Jane Austen Handbook, by Margaret Sullivan, $2.99. Both Austen newbies and proper Janeites will find this delightful little guidebook very useful. A light, tongue-in-cheek tone pairs well with a serious vault of knowledge about Regency England. Not sure whether a Marquis outranks a Duke? Or how rich Mr. Darcy would be in modern terms? This book will help fill in all the gaps.
Who is Greta Thunberg? by Jill Leonard, $4.99. Get to know Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg in this elementary biography. From the publisher: “When she was just fifteen years old, Greta Thunberg knew she wanted to change the world. With a hand-painted sign that read "School strike for the climate" in Swedish, Greta sat alone on the steps of the Swedish parliament to call for stronger action on climate change. Her one-person strike would soon spark a worldwide movement. This exciting story details the defining moments in Greta's childhood that led up to her now-famous strike and all the monumental ones that have fueled her revolution since, including being named Time's Most Influential Person of the Year in 2019.”
Molecules: The Elements and Architecture of Everything, by Theodore Gray, $0.99. If you’ve already gotten to know the periodic elements, it is time to step up to learning about molecules. Theodore Gray starts by explaining the basics of bonding and how bond types affect physical structure. The rest of the book is made up of profiles of different compounds, detailing their composition, usage, and history. As in all of Gray’s books, there are copious detailed photo illustrations.
Ripped From the Headlines: The Shocking True Stories Behind the Movies’ Most Memorable Crimes, by Harold Schechter, $1.99. So many of the plotlines from famous movies have been taken from true-life events. Historian Harold Schechter reveals all the fascinating stories behind films like Scream, Psycho, and Dirty Harry. This is a fun exploration for true crime fans and movie buffs alike!
Tasting the World: One Country at a Time, by Nicole O’Donnell, $2.99. This book is so cool! O’Donnell has collected recipes from more than 200 countries. I wish there were pictures, but I do appreciate her ratings system for ease of preparation, availability of ingredients, and degree of divergence from American flavor profiles. Pair this book with your geography lessons for a delicious enrichment.
Recipes from the World of Tolkein: Inspired by the Legends, by Robert Tuesley Anderson, $1.99. Supplement your reading to The Lord of the Rings with some “authentic” recipes! This small volume has many recipes (Brandywine Fish Pie, Beorn’s Twice-Baked Cakes) and beautiful watercolor illustrations. Essays about the importance of food in Middle Earth make for delicious reading.
The Classical Music Book, by DK Publishing, $1.99. This book is overflowing with music history information. Inside, you’ll find details about famous (and less famous) composers, instruments, musical styles, and much much more.
Nicola and the Viscount, by Meg Cabot, $1.99. Meg Cabot, who you may know from The Princess Diaries, is back with a historical YA romance. Here’s the publisher’s description: “Nicola Sparks, sixteen and an orphan, is ready to dive headlong into her first glittering London society season. She's also ready to dive headlong into the arms of handsome and debonair Lord Sebastian Bartholomew. Nicola's dream is a proposal from the viscount—a dream she's about to realize at last! So naturally, Nathaniel Sheridan's insinuations about her fiancé's flawed character annoy her mightily. But when Nicola's natural curiosity gets the best of her, she begins to piece together a few things for herself. To her great surprise, Nicola realizes she's had the wrong viscount all along . . . but is it too late to make things right?”
Her Right Foot, by Dave Eggers, $2.99. This beautiful picture book takes a look at the history of the Statue of Liberty. More than that, Eggers uses the statue to address the inherent freedoms that form the basis of American culture and government. Shawn Harris’s mixed-media illustrations are simple but visually interesting.
City Signs, by Zoran Milich, $3.99. Help your child get to know the words they might find around a city! The only text in this book is found on the signs themselves, but flipping through the photos is an excellent starting point for conversations about all the workers, transportation, and businesses you can find in an urban environment.
DK Readers: Homes Around the World, by Max Moore, $2.99. This level 1 reader will takes kids around the world to visit houses on stilts, in caves, and high up in trees. As always, DK’s gorgeous photo illustrations bring each setting to life.
The Sun is a Compass: My 4,000-Mile Journey Into the Alaskan Wilds, by Caroline Van Hemert, $4.49. Caroline Van Hemert is an ornithologist who was feeling frustrated with how much time she was spending in the lab. Determined to get back in touch with nature, she decided to take a massive trip, by boat and on foot, through the wilderness of Alaska. She approaches her journey with an adventurer’s spirit and a biologist’s eye for details in the world around her.
Science in Seconds: 200 Key Concepts Explained in an Instant, by Hazel Muir, $4.99. Looking for a quick explainer on, well, just about any major science concept? This book has got you covered. Muir has collected diagrams and short descriptions of black holes, gravity, surface tension, and dozens more topics.
Science Wide Open: Women in Physics, by Mary Wissinger, $2.99. I’m really impressed with this picture book. A curious girl asks questions about the world (e.g., “Why do things fall down?”), and the book answers each question with factual information about science and the women who contributed to each discovery. If you like this one, you might consider the other books in the series!
What If You Had Animal Feet? by Sandra Markle, $2.99. How would your life be different if you had animal feet? Would you climb walls? Balance on tiny ledges? The books in this series are full of fascinating facts about the animal kingdom, but what really sets them apart are the weird and wonderful illustrations imagining kids with animal features.
Tomorrow Most Likely, by Dave Eggers, $1.99. It may be time for bed, but one little boy’s thoughts are all about what the next day will bring. Follow his trains of thought about the sights, sounds, and smells he may discover when he wakes up. This simple, hopeful book is perfect for bedtime.
Rain Brings Frogs: A Little Book of Hope, by Maryann Cocca-Leffler, $2.99. Nate is a kid who sees things in his own special way. When faced with a setback or shortage, Nate finds something to be proud or hopeful about. The illustrations are adorable, and the message of simple gratitude is useful.
The OK Book, by Amy Krouse Rosenthal, $2.99. Amy Krouse Rosenthal is one of my absolute favorite children’s authors. Her books are full of wit and warmth, and The OK Book is no exception. OK is a character (created by the letters O and K turn on their side) who likes to try a lot of things, even things that don’t come naturally. OK assures readers that it’s good to be OK at lots of things, and that trying things is how you discover what will make you great.
Binti: The Complete Trilogy, by Nnedi Okorafor, $4.99. This sci-fi novella collection 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 collects all three Binti novellas, following Binti from her first voyage to university through Binti’s unique path to bringing peace to ancient enemies. I absolutely tore through these books, and I’m delighted that they are all packaged together.
Sleeping Giants, by Sylvain Neuvel, $3.99. I love a good epistolary novel. It’s fascinating to watch a plot come together from a collection of documents. Sleeping Giants is the first in a series about the discovery of an enormous metal hand buried underground. Where did it come from? What does it mean?
My Alien Parents, by R.L. Stine, $3.99. If you were born within 10 years of me, the name R.L. Stine probably sends a little shiver down your spine. He has been writing creepy books for kids and teens for decades. Introduce the next generation to the thrills and chills with this short, fun story about a kid who is convinced his parents are secretly aliens.
Asian-Americans Who Inspire Us, by Analiza Quiroz Wolf, $2.99. This picture book profiles 16 people who have done tremendous things in a wide variety of fields (sports, politics, activism, music). The illustrations really set this book apart. Unlike many biography collections, each person has several images accompanying the text.
Rags and Bones: New Twists on Timeless Tales, edited by Melissa Marr and Tim Pratt, $1.99. This fascinating short story collection reimagines classic stories in new genres. Big names in YA literature (e.g., Neil Gaiman, Garth Nix) have contributed stories to the collection. Some of the stories that provide original inspiration are obscure but worthy of exploration in their own right. Use this collection as a springboard for further literary explrations!
What Can I Be? STEM Careers from A to Z, by Tiffani Teachey, $2.99. This short and sweet book highlights a wide variety of STEM careers. There is not a lot of detail about each field, but this would make an excellent jumping off point for further research. I particularly appreciate the ethnic and gender diversity in the illustrations. Every kid will find someone who looks like them within the pages.
Let’s Meet a Construction Worker, by Bridget Heos, $4.99. This is only one in a series of short books introducing community helpers of all sorts. Fun cartoon-style illustrations accompany interesting information about construction machinery, safety procedures, and more.
Kindle Deals for August 26, 2021
Books for science-loving adventurers.
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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Nick and Tesla’s High-Voltage Danger Lab, by Bob Pflugfelder, $2.99. Your junior scientist and engineers will love these high-action tales that also contain instructions for making the same mechanical creations as Nick and Tesla. Many of the projects can be accomplished with things you probably already have around the house.
Cockpit Confidential: Everything You Need to Know About Air Travel, by Patrick Smith, $2.51. It’s been more than a year since I was on a plane, but I remember traveling with a kid who wanted to know how everything at the airport worked. If you know a kid (or grownup) like that, I have the book for you! Smith is a pilot with lots of inside information about aerodynamics, security, baggage logistics, plane food, and much more.
Theodore Gray’s Completely Mad Science: Experiments You Can Do at Home, But Probably Shouldn’t, by Theodore Gray, $2.99. In this case, I think the title really says it all. Gray is known for his gorgeous science books filled with detailed photographs and facts. He brings this style to a collection of wild experiments that highlight important scientific principles. Whether you should really make a Flaming Bacon Lance remains to be seen, but you’ll get clear instructions on how to do it (and why) in this fun book.
Ender’s World: Fresh Perspectives on the SF Classic Ender’s Game, by Orson Scott Card and others, $3.99. Ender’s Game (not so much the sequels) is a masterpiece of YA literature, and a touchstone for many gifted kids. This collection of essays from big names in literature and and even military strategists offers a deeper dive into the Ender’s universe.
STILL ON SALE
All the Rage: Mothers, Fathers, and the Myth of Equal Partnership, by Darcy Lockman, $1.99. Even in the most progressive of homeschooling circles, the vast majority of childcare and education falls to women. Lockman, a psychologist who started her career as a journalist, looks at both the history and current state of domestic labor. With case studies and social science research, Lockman highlights some of the societal factors that contribute to inequalities in caregiving, then asks “what can we do about it?”
Fed Up: Emotional Labor, Women, and the Way Forward, by Gemma Hartley, $1.99. I’ve been meaning to read this one. From the publisher: “In her ultra-viral article ‘Women Aren’t Nags—We’re Just Fed Up,’ shared by millions of readers, Gemma Hartley gave much-needed voice to the frustration and anger experienced by countless women. Now, in Fed Up, Hartley expands outward from the everyday frustrations of performing thankless emotional labor to illuminate how the expectation to do this work in all arenas—private and public—fuels gender inequality, limits our opportunities, steals our time, and adversely affects the quality of our lives. More than just name the problem, though, Hartley teases apart the cultural messaging that has led us here and asks how we can shift the load. Rejecting easy solutions that don’t ultimately move the needle, Hartley offers a nuanced, insightful guide to striking real balance, for true partnership in every aspect of our lives.”
To Have and To Hold: Motherhood, Marriage, and the Modern Dilemma, by Molly Millwood, $1.99. When women become parents, even in today’s society, their lives are heavily impacted. Millwood is a clinical psychologist who works with parents experience postpartum depression and the complicated emotions associated with changes in identity around parenting responsibilities. This book draws from her personal and clinical experiences to guide women through the joys and challenges of parenting.
Enough As She Is: How to Help Girls Move Beyond Impossible Standards of Success to Live Healthy, Happy, and Fulfilling Lives, by Rachel Simmons, $1.99. Rachel Simmons has written a follow up to Odd Girl Out. In this new book, she looks at the unreasonable standards girls and young women place on themselves and offers parents concrete guidance for reinforcing confidence.
The Testing, by Joelle Charbonneau, $1.99. Calling all fans of The Hunger Games or Divergent! This series should scratch that dystopian coming-of-age itch. Here’s a summary from the publisher: “It’s graduation day for sixteen-year-old Malencia Vale, and the entire Five Lakes Colony (the former Great Lakes) is celebrating. All Cia can think about—hope for—is whether she’ll be chosen for The Testing, a United Commonwealth program that selects the best and brightest new graduates to become possible leaders of the slowly revitalizing post-war civilization. When Cia is chosen, her father finally tells her about his own nightmarish half-memories of The Testing. Armed with his dire warnings (“Cia, trust no one”), she bravely heads off to Tosu City, far away from friends and family, perhaps forever. Danger, romance—and sheer terror—await.”
Elatsoe, by Darcy Little Badger, $2.99. This award-winning fantasy novel presents a fresh and unique voice. From the publisher: “Elatsoe—Ellie for short—lives in an alternate contemporary America shaped by the ancestral magics and knowledge of its Indigenous and immigrant groups. She can raise the spirits of dead animals—most importantly, her ghost dog Kirby. When her beloved cousin dies, all signs point to a car crash, but his ghost tells her otherwise: He was murdered. Who killed him and how did he die? With the help of her family, her best friend Jay, and the memory great, great, great, great, great, great grandmother, Elatsoe, must track down the killer and unravel the mystery of this creepy town and its dark past. But will the nefarious townsfolk and a mysterious Doctor stop her before she gets started? A breathtaking debut novel featuring an asexual, Apache teen protagonist, Elatsoe combines mystery, horror, noir, ancestral knowledge, haunting illustrations, fantasy elements, and is one of the most-talked about debuts of the year.”
I Know What You Did Last Summer, by Lois Duncan, $2.99. Lois Duncan is a master of classic YA suspense. The stakes are very high in this 1970s novel about teens trying to evade a mysterious stranger who is out to punish them for a hit-and-run accident. I can’t remember enough about the 1990s movie adaptation to specifically recommend it, but if you have a suspense/horror fan, you could do a book-movie comparison!
Do You Dream of Terra-Two? by Temi Oh, $1.99. This sci-fi book won the Alex prize for adult fiction of particular interested to YA readers. A team of teens and adult scientists is sent off on a 20-year mission to prepare a new planet for human colonization. Locked within the spaceship for decades, they must rely fully on each other for survival. Oh captures the alternating boredom and terror of a life in the unknown. Though the setting inextricably influences the story, the real plot is about the human interactions, not space itself.
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. For a more in-depth review, check out Amy’s Readaloud of the Week post!
My Family Divided, by Diane Guerrero, $2.99. Guerrero is known for her work on Orange is the New Black, but before she became an actress, she was a Latinx kid growing up near Boston. Diane was a citizen; her parents were not. One day, while Diane was at school, her parents were arrested and then deported. Since that time, she has been a passionate voice for immigration reform. My Family Divided is the young readers version of Guerrero’s memoir about her childhood and activism.
Prairie Lotus, by Linda Sue Park, $2.99. If your kids enjoy Little House on the Prairie but you are looking to increase the diversity of your reading list, you should definitely pick up this one! Hanna is an Asian girl living in a small prairie town in 1880. She wants to make friends and go to school, but the racism of the other townspeople make her existence hard. Park doesn’t shrink from the harsh realities of history, but the story is touching and funny.
Dog Days, by Karen English, $1.99. You may have encountered English’s previous early chapter book series, Nikki and Deja. The Carver Chronicles is set in that same universe but centers boys’ stories! Dog Days is about Gavin, a new kid who loves skateboarding. When he is assigned care of his great-aunt’s fussy Pomeranian as a consequence for getting into trouble, he worries no one will ever think he is cool with the dog in tow. Short chapters and dynamic illustrations make this one a fun read.
Jane Austen Cover to Cover: 200 Years of Classic Covers, by Margaret C. Sullivan, $3.99. Ok, I’ll admit it — this is a VERY specific book, but I know some of you will appreciate it. Sullivan has collected images of dozens of physical copies of Austen’s works. She provides an excellent chronology of their publication and reissue. If you are fascinated by book-binding, cover art, or Austen, you will love this book.
Booked: A Traveler’s Guide to Literary Locations Around the World, by Richard Kreitner, $3.99. If you’ve ever wanted to visit the setting of your favorite book, you will want to pick up this travel guide. Kreitner has selected places made famous in children’s and adult literature, both in the US and abroad. He includes short passages from the books in question, along with a discussion of the significance of each place and practical tips for visiting.
Dear Fahrenheit 451: Love and Heartbreak in the Stacks — A Librarian's Love Letters and Breakup Notes to the Books in Her Life, by Annie Spence, $2.99. Do we need another book about books? I’m going to go with yes. Annie Spence reads a lot, loves her books, and has interested takes on new and old classics. The first part of the book is hilarious letters to books of many genres and age ranges. Some are love letters, some are angry notes. The second second is full of essays about the joys and sorrows of reading and book lists in various categories.
Texts from Jane Eyre: And Other Conversations with Your Favorite Literary Characters, by Mallory Ortberg, $2.99. This fun, short book is a huge hit at HSL. It’s a collection of conversations with fictional characters, from Mr. Rochester to Daisy Buchanan. The conversations are clever, funny, and intelligent. I can’t think of another book that does a better job of encouraging readers to dig deep into the classics. If you’re well-read, you’ll get all the jokes. The conversation with Dido is one of my favorites.
Howl’s Moving Castle, by Diana Wynne Jones, $3.50. Amy used this book and others to create a massive Studio Ghibli unit study. Here is her review: “Sometimes a curse can be just what you needed, as Sophie discovers in this delightful fantasy about a hat maker's daughter who's cursed to premature old age by the Witch of the Waste. To break the curse, Sophie will need to team up with the mysterious wizard Howl, who happens to be stuck under a curse of his own—but first, she'll have to get to his castle, which has a habit of wandering around. I love this as a readaloud, on its own, or (of course) a companion piece to the equally wonderful (though often quite different) movie adaptation.”
Stinkiest! 20 Smelly Animals, by Steve Jenkins, $3.99. Can you name 20 smelly animals? I’m not sure I could without reading this fun picture book. There’s a skunk on the cover, but Jenkins introduces readers to opossoms, hoopoes, millipedes, and lots of other big and little stinkers. If your kids are into gross facts (and who isn’t?), they will have a great time with this book.
Seeing Science: An Illustrated Guide to the Wonders of the Universe, by Iris Gottlieb, $2.99. This book is really cool. Gottlieb is an illustrator who is fascinated by the natural world. She brings her unique blend of cartoon and realism to topics in biology, earth science, and physics. The result is a charming and and detailed look at many interesting aspects of science. Visual learners and science fans will love this. The topics range from basic (how we know something is alive) to theoretical and complex (quantum superposition).
Art Before Breakfast: A Zillion Ways to be More Creative No Matter How Busy You Are, by Danny Gregory, $2.99. My daughter loves doing art and fills lots of her spare time making things. I’ve never considered myself an artist and struggle to find time to develop my skills. This book is a great place to start. Danny Gregory has created short, fun activities that take 10 minutes or less. They will encourage you to make art a regular part of your life. This book is a great way to add some art education to your homeschool, or to carve out a bit of time for your own creativity.
How Art Can Make You Happy, by Bridget Watson Payne, $1.99. A lot of homeschoolers I know have trouble working art into their education plans. This little book can help to bring some fresh ideas to your school year! With a focus on finding joy in experiencing and making art, this collection of tips, quotes, and pep talks is useful and inspiring.
Grammar Girl’s 101 Words to Sound Smart, by Mignon Fogarty, $3.99. I really like Mignon Fogarty’s grammar guides. She is thorough but fun and quippy. This short book is a collection of interesting words (e.g., diaphanous and jejune) that are often thrown around by smart people. Each word gets a paragraph or two explaining what it means and one or more quotations offering examples of how to use it. You’ll find the book useful for beefing up SAT vocabulary and adding sophistication to high school writing.
The Emotion Thesaurus: A Writer’s Guide to Character Expression, by Angela Ackerman and Becca Puglisi, $1.49. As a word nerd, I find this book so cool! The authors cover more than 100 different emotional states and offer ideas for what it might look like if a character was experiencing them, or if they were trying to cover them up. This goes well beyond happy or angry; sections include horror, insecurity, and envy.
How to Write a Story, by Kate Messner, $1.99. I love this picture book! It’s a step-by-step guide to writing a story, from brainstorming an idea to putting a polished version down on paper. It’s definitely educational, but not the least bit boring. The illustrations follow a girl as she creates her own very exciting story involving dragons and sea monsters.
The Princess Will Save You, by Sarah Henning, $2.99. This action-packed YA novel has some definite Princess Bride vibes, but with a fierce twist. When Princess Amarande’s father dies, the ruler of a neighboring kingdom tries to force her into marriage by kidnapping her beloved. But Amarande is a warrior and is not going to go without a fight. The result is lots of swashbuckling, a bit of romance, betrayal, and bravery.
The Star-Touched Queen, by Roshani Chokshi, $2.99. This YA fantasy novel got a lot of buzz a few years ago. Here’s the publisher’s description: “Maya is cursed. With a horoscope that promises a marriage of Death and Destruction, she has earned only the scorn and fear of her father's kingdom. Content to follow more scholarly pursuits, her whole world is torn apart when her father, the Raja, arranges a wedding of political convenience to quell outside rebellions. Soon Maya becomes the queen of Akaran and wife of Amar. Neither roles are what she expected: As Akaran's queen, she finds her voice and power. As Amar's wife, she finds something else entirely: Compassion. Protection. Desire...
But Akaran has its own secrets -- thousands of locked doors, gardens of glass, and a tree that bears memories instead of fruit. Soon, Maya suspects her life is in danger. Yet who, besides her husband, can she trust? With the fate of the human and Otherworldly realms hanging in the balance, Maya must unravel an ancient mystery that spans reincarnated lives to save those she loves the most… including herself.”
Royal Academy Rebels: Misfits, by Jen Calonita, $0.99. Devin wants to be a veterinarian, but alas, she was born a princess and must attend the Royal Academy. At this prestigious boarding school for future rulers, Devin and her fellow classmates will learn all they need to know, but their headmistress seems very worried about the possibility of an attack. Are they in danger? Note: This book ends in the middle of the action, so be prepared to seek out the second book in the series right away!
The Princess Rules: It’s a Prince Thing, by Philippa Gregory, $0.99. Being a princess comes with a long list of rules and expectations. But in Florizella’s kingdom, princes can do whatever they want. When the stork delivers a baby boy to the palace, Princess Florizella is determined to show her brother all the wonders of the kingdom… and to fight the customs that give boys options and girls restrictions. You may know Philippa Gregory for her richly detailed adult historical fiction. She brings the same skill to this series for early middle-grade readers.
Demigods and Monsters: Your Favorite Authors on Rick Riordan’s Percy Jackson and the Olympians Series, edited by Rick Riordan, $3.99. This is a really fun essay collection about the world of Percy Jackson. 15 (mostly YA and science fiction) authors have come together to write about how to identify a monster when you see one, why humans are drawn to mythology, how Percy’s dyslexia and ADHD shape his character, and many other interesting topics. I know so many kids who have devoured every Riordan book (and all of the books from his publishing imprint); they will love this book!
Nordic Tales: Folktales from Norway, Sweden, Finland, Iceland, and Denmark, by Chronicle Books, $2.99. These folktales are full of trolls, ogres, dragons, and other creatures. A few are familiar, but most are not well know in the U.S. You’ll find tales of trickery, transformation, and travel in this charmingly illustrated collection.
The Brothers Grimm: Illuminated Fairy Tales, by The Brothers Grimm, $1.99. Occasionally you find a book that is uniquely designed for the ebook format. This collection of Grimm Fairy Tales is beautifully illustrated, with subtly animated elements! As you read, you can watch the witch threaten Hansel and Gretel. Each story is illustrated in a different artist, and you could compare and contrast their styles for a fun art lesson.
The Jane Austen Handbook, by Margaret Sullivan, $2.99. Both Austen newbies and proper Janeites will find this delightful little guidebook very useful. A light, tongue-in-cheek tone pairs well with a serious vault of knowledge about Regency England. Not sure whether a Marquis outranks a Duke? Or how rich Mr. Darcy would be in modern terms? This book will help fill in all the gaps.
Who is Greta Thunberg? by Jill Leonard, $4.99. Get to know Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg in this elementary biography. From the publisher: “When she was just fifteen years old, Greta Thunberg knew she wanted to change the world. With a hand-painted sign that read "School strike for the climate" in Swedish, Greta sat alone on the steps of the Swedish parliament to call for stronger action on climate change. Her one-person strike would soon spark a worldwide movement. This exciting story details the defining moments in Greta's childhood that led up to her now-famous strike and all the monumental ones that have fueled her revolution since, including being named Time's Most Influential Person of the Year in 2019.”
Molecules: The Elements and Architecture of Everything, by Theodore Gray, $0.99. If you’ve already gotten to know the periodic elements, it is time to step up to learning about molecules. Theodore Gray starts by explaining the basics of bonding and how bond types affect physical structure. The rest of the book is made up of profiles of different compounds, detailing their composition, usage, and history. As in all of Gray’s books, there are copious detailed photo illustrations.
Ripped From the Headlines: The Shocking True Stories Behind the Movies’ Most Memorable Crimes, by Harold Schechter, $1.99. So many of the plotlines from famous movies have been taken from true-life events. Historian Harold Schechter reveals all the fascinating stories behind films like Scream, Psycho, and Dirty Harry. This is a fun exploration for true crime fans and movie buffs alike!
Rise of the Jumbies, by Tracey Baptiste, $1.99. I’ve featured The Jumbies in the Kindle deals before. If your kids enjoy Rick Riordan books, they will get excited about this series based on Carribbean folklore. In the second book, Corinne must venture into to sea to request the help of the powerful jumbie Mama D’Leau. Mama D’Leau’s price for help is a powerful object, and Corinne and her friends must set off on a dangerous quest to retrieve it.
Tasting the World: One Country at a Time, by Nicole O’Donnell, $2.99. This book is so cool! O’Donnell has collected recipes from more than 200 countries. I wish there were pictures, but I do appreciate her ratings system for ease of preparation, availability of ingredients, and degree of divergence from American flavor profiles. Pair this book with your geography lessons for a delicious enrichment.
Recipes from the World of Tolkein: Inspired by the Legends, by Robert Tuesley Anderson, $1.99. Supplement your reading to The Lord of the Rings with some “authentic” recipes! This small volume has many recipes (Brandywine Fish Pie, Beorn’s Twice-Baked Cakes) and beautiful watercolor illustrations. Essays about the importance of food in Middle Earth make for delicious reading.
The Language of Spells, by Garret Weyr, $1.99. Amy liked this book, but warns that it is SAD. It’s a metaphor of the Holocaust through dragon-based fantasy. Here’s a bit of her review: “A lonely Viennese girl teams up with a dragon to solve the biggest mystery of World War II and figure out what happened to all the dragons. You’re plunged into an alternate magical world, where cats can run government agencies and dragons can spend decades trapped inside a teapot, and it’s a thrilling plunge. It’s alternate history! And magic! And lonely girls finding their people (or, you know, dragons) for the first time.”
The Classical Music Book, by DK Publishing, $1.99. This book is overflowing with music history information. Inside, you’ll find details about famous (and less famous) composers, instruments, musical styles, and much much more.
Nicola and the Viscount, by Meg Cabot, $1.99. Meg Cabot, who you may know from The Princess Diaries, is back with a historical YA romance. Here’s the publisher’s description: “Nicola Sparks, sixteen and an orphan, is ready to dive headlong into her first glittering London society season. She's also ready to dive headlong into the arms of handsome and debonair Lord Sebastian Bartholomew. Nicola's dream is a proposal from the viscount—a dream she's about to realize at last! So naturally, Nathaniel Sheridan's insinuations about her fiancé's flawed character annoy her mightily. But when Nicola's natural curiosity gets the best of her, she begins to piece together a few things for herself. To her great surprise, Nicola realizes she's had the wrong viscount all along . . . but is it too late to make things right?”
Her Right Foot, by Dave Eggers, $2.99. This beautiful picture book takes a look at the history of the Statue of Liberty. More than that, Eggers uses the statue to address the inherent freedoms that form the basis of American culture and government. Shawn Harris’s mixed-media illustrations are simple but visually interesting.
City Signs, by Zoran Milich, $3.99. Help your child get to know the words they might find around a city! The only text in this book is found on the signs themselves, but flipping through the photos is an excellent starting point for conversations about all the workers, transportation, and businesses you can find in an urban environment.
DK Readers: Homes Around the World, by Max Moore, $2.99. This level 1 reader will takes kids around the world to visit houses on stilts, in caves, and high up in trees. As always, DK’s gorgeous photo illustrations bring each setting to life.
The Sun is a Compass: My 4,000-Mile Journey Into the Alaskan Wilds, by Caroline Van Hemert, $4.49. Caroline Van Hemert is an ornithologist who was feeling frustrated with how much time she was spending in the lab. Determined to get back in touch with nature, she decided to take a massive trip, by boat and on foot, through the wilderness of Alaska. She approaches her journey with an adventurer’s spirit and a biologist’s eye for details in the world around her.
Science in Seconds: 200 Key Concepts Explained in an Instant, by Hazel Muir, $4.99. Looking for a quick explainer on, well, just about any major science concept? This book has got you covered. Muir has collected diagrams and short descriptions of black holes, gravity, surface tension, and dozens more topics.
Science Wide Open: Women in Physics, by Mary Wissinger, $2.99. I’m really impressed with this picture book. A curious girl asks questions about the world (e.g., “Why do things fall down?”), and the book answers each question with factual information about science and the women who contributed to each discovery. If you like this one, you might consider the other books in the series!
What If You Had Animal Feet? by Sandra Markle, $2.99. How would your life be different if you had animal feet? Would you climb walls? Balance on tiny ledges? The books in this series are full of fascinating facts about the animal kingdom, but what really sets them apart are the weird and wonderful illustrations imagining kids with animal features.
Tomorrow Most Likely, by Dave Eggers, $1.99. It may be time for bed, but one little boy’s thoughts are all about what the next day will bring. Follow his trains of thought about the sights, sounds, and smells he may discover when he wakes up. This simple, hopeful book is perfect for bedtime.
Rain Brings Frogs: A Little Book of Hope, by Maryann Cocca-Leffler, $2.99. Nate is a kid who sees things in his own special way. When faced with a setback or shortage, Nate finds something to be proud or hopeful about. The illustrations are adorable, and the message of simple gratitude is useful.
The OK Book, by Amy Krouse Rosenthal, $2.99. Amy Krouse Rosenthal is one of my absolute favorite children’s authors. Her books are full of wit and warmth, and The OK Book is no exception. OK is a character (created by the letters O and K turn on their side) who likes to try a lot of things, even things that don’t come naturally. OK assures readers that it’s good to be OK at lots of things, and that trying things is how you discover what will make you great.
Binti: The Complete Trilogy, by Nnedi Okorafor, $4.99. This sci-fi novella collection 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 collects all three Binti novellas, following Binti from her first voyage to university through Binti’s unique path to bringing peace to ancient enemies. I absolutely tore through these books, and I’m delighted that they are all packaged together.
Sleeping Giants, by Sylvain Neuvel, $3.99. I love a good epistolary novel. It’s fascinating to watch a plot come together from a collection of documents. Sleeping Giants is the first in a series about the discovery of an enormous metal hand buried underground. Where did it come from? What does it mean?
My Alien Parents, by R.L. Stine, $3.99. If you were born within 10 years of me, the name R.L. Stine probably sends a little shiver down your spine. He has been writing creepy books for kids and teens for decades. Introduce the next generation to the thrills and chills with this short, fun story about a kid who is convinced his parents are secretly aliens.
Asian-Americans Who Inspire Us, by Analiza Quiroz Wolf, $2.99. This picture book profiles 16 people who have done tremendous things in a wide variety of fields (sports, politics, activism, music). The illustrations really set this book apart. Unlike many biography collections, each person has several images accompanying the text.
Rags and Bones: New Twists on Timeless Tales, edited by Melissa Marr and Tim Pratt, $1.99. This fascinating short story collection reimagines classic stories in new genres. Big names in YA literature (e.g., Neil Gaiman, Garth Nix) have contributed stories to the collection. Some of the stories that provide original inspiration are obscure but worthy of exploration in their own right. Use this collection as a springboard for further literary explrations!
What Can I Be? STEM Careers from A to Z, by Tiffani Teachey, $2.99. This short and sweet book highlights a wide variety of STEM careers. There is not a lot of detail about each field, but this would make an excellent jumping off point for further research. I particularly appreciate the ethnic and gender diversity in the illustrations. Every kid will find someone who looks like them within the pages.
Let’s Meet a Construction Worker, by Bridget Heos, $4.99. This is only one in a series of short books introducing community helpers of all sorts. Fun cartoon-style illustrations accompany interesting information about construction machinery, safety procedures, and more.
Kindle Deals for August 25, 2021
Books about parenting and gender roles.
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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Enough As She Is: How to Help Girls Move Beyond Impossible Standards of Success to Live Healthy, Happy, and Fulfilling Lives, by Rachel Simmons, $1.99. Rachel Simmons has written a follow up to Odd Girl Out. In this new book, she looks at the unreasonable standards girls and young women place on themselves and offers parents concrete guidance for reinforcing confidence.
To Have and To Hold: Motherhood, Marriage, and the Modern Dilemma, by Molly Millwood, $1.99. When women become parents, even in today’s society, their lives are heavily impacted. Millwood is a clinical psychologist who works with parents experience postpartum depression and the complicated emotions associated with changes in identity around parenting responsibilities. This book draws from her personal and clinical experiences to guide women through the joys and challenges of parenting.
Fed Up: Emotional Labor, Women, and the Way Forward, by Gemma Hartley, $1.99. I’ve been meaning to read this one. From the publisher: “In her ultra-viral article ‘Women Aren’t Nags—We’re Just Fed Up,’ shared by millions of readers, Gemma Hartley gave much-needed voice to the frustration and anger experienced by countless women. Now, in Fed Up, Hartley expands outward from the everyday frustrations of performing thankless emotional labor to illuminate how the expectation to do this work in all arenas—private and public—fuels gender inequality, limits our opportunities, steals our time, and adversely affects the quality of our lives. More than just name the problem, though, Hartley teases apart the cultural messaging that has led us here and asks how we can shift the load. Rejecting easy solutions that don’t ultimately move the needle, Hartley offers a nuanced, insightful guide to striking real balance, for true partnership in every aspect of our lives.”
All the Rage: Mothers, Fathers, and the Myth of Equal Partnership, by Darcy Lockman, $1.99. Even in the most progressive of homeschooling circles, the vast majority of childcare and education falls to women. Lockman, a psychologist who started her career as a journalist, looks at both the history and current state of domestic labor. With case studies and social science research, Lockman highlights some of the societal factors that contribute to inequalities in caregiving, then asks “what can we do about it?”
STILL ON SALE
The Testing, by Joelle Charbonneau, $1.99. Calling all fans of The Hunger Games or Divergent! This series should scratch that dystopian coming-of-age itch. Here’s a summary from the publisher: “It’s graduation day for sixteen-year-old Malencia Vale, and the entire Five Lakes Colony (the former Great Lakes) is celebrating. All Cia can think about—hope for—is whether she’ll be chosen for The Testing, a United Commonwealth program that selects the best and brightest new graduates to become possible leaders of the slowly revitalizing post-war civilization. When Cia is chosen, her father finally tells her about his own nightmarish half-memories of The Testing. Armed with his dire warnings (“Cia, trust no one”), she bravely heads off to Tosu City, far away from friends and family, perhaps forever. Danger, romance—and sheer terror—await.”
Elatsoe, by Darcy Little Badger, $2.99. This award-winning fantasy novel presents a fresh and unique voice. From the publisher: “Elatsoe—Ellie for short—lives in an alternate contemporary America shaped by the ancestral magics and knowledge of its Indigenous and immigrant groups. She can raise the spirits of dead animals—most importantly, her ghost dog Kirby. When her beloved cousin dies, all signs point to a car crash, but his ghost tells her otherwise: He was murdered. Who killed him and how did he die? With the help of her family, her best friend Jay, and the memory great, great, great, great, great, great grandmother, Elatsoe, must track down the killer and unravel the mystery of this creepy town and its dark past. But will the nefarious townsfolk and a mysterious Doctor stop her before she gets started? A breathtaking debut novel featuring an asexual, Apache teen protagonist, Elatsoe combines mystery, horror, noir, ancestral knowledge, haunting illustrations, fantasy elements, and is one of the most-talked about debuts of the year.”
I Know What You Did Last Summer, by Lois Duncan, $2.99. Lois Duncan is a master of classic YA suspense. The stakes are very high in this 1970s novel about teens trying to evade a mysterious stranger who is out to punish them for a hit-and-run accident. I can’t remember enough about the 1990s movie adaptation to specifically recommend it, but if you have a suspense/horror fan, you could do a book-movie comparison!
Do You Dream of Terra-Two? by Temi Oh, $1.99. This sci-fi book won the Alex prize for adult fiction of particular interested to YA readers. A team of teens and adult scientists is sent off on a 20-year mission to prepare a new planet for human colonization. Locked within the spaceship for decades, they must rely fully on each other for survival. Oh captures the alternating boredom and terror of a life in the unknown. Though the setting inextricably influences the story, the real plot is about the human interactions, not space itself.
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. For a more in-depth review, check out Amy’s Readaloud of the Week post!
My Family Divided, by Diane Guerrero, $2.99. Guerrero is known for her work on Orange is the New Black, but before she became an actress, she was a Latinx kid growing up near Boston. Diane was a citizen; her parents were not. One day, while Diane was at school, her parents were arrested and then deported. Since that time, she has been a passionate voice for immigration reform. My Family Divided is the young readers version of Guerrero’s memoir about her childhood and activism.
Prairie Lotus, by Linda Sue Park, $2.99. If your kids enjoy Little House on the Prairie but you are looking to increase the diversity of your reading list, you should definitely pick up this one! Hanna is an Asian girl living in a small prairie town in 1880. She wants to make friends and go to school, but the racism of the other townspeople make her existence hard. Park doesn’t shrink from the harsh realities of history, but the story is touching and funny.
Dog Days, by Karen English, $1.99. You may have encountered English’s previous early chapter book series, Nikki and Deja. The Carver Chronicles is set in that same universe but centers boys’ stories! Dog Days is about Gavin, a new kid who loves skateboarding. When he is assigned care of his great-aunt’s fussy Pomeranian as a consequence for getting into trouble, he worries no one will ever think he is cool with the dog in tow. Short chapters and dynamic illustrations make this one a fun read.
Jane Austen Cover to Cover: 200 Years of Classic Covers, by Margaret C. Sullivan, $3.99. Ok, I’ll admit it — this is a VERY specific book, but I know some of you will appreciate it. Sullivan has collected images of dozens of physical copies of Austen’s works. She provides an excellent chronology of their publication and reissue. If you are fascinated by book-binding, cover art, or Austen, you will love this book.
Booked: A Traveler’s Guide to Literary Locations Around the World, by Richard Kreitner, $3.99. If you’ve ever wanted to visit the setting of your favorite book, you will want to pick up this travel guide. Kreitner has selected places made famous in children’s and adult literature, both in the US and abroad. He includes short passages from the books in question, along with a discussion of the significance of each place and practical tips for visiting.
Dear Fahrenheit 451: Love and Heartbreak in the Stacks — A Librarian's Love Letters and Breakup Notes to the Books in Her Life, by Annie Spence, $2.99. Do we need another book about books? I’m going to go with yes. Annie Spence reads a lot, loves her books, and has interested takes on new and old classics. The first part of the book is hilarious letters to books of many genres and age ranges. Some are love letters, some are angry notes. The second second is full of essays about the joys and sorrows of reading and book lists in various categories.
Texts from Jane Eyre: And Other Conversations with Your Favorite Literary Characters, by Mallory Ortberg, $2.99. This fun, short book is a huge hit at HSL. It’s a collection of conversations with fictional characters, from Mr. Rochester to Daisy Buchanan. The conversations are clever, funny, and intelligent. I can’t think of another book that does a better job of encouraging readers to dig deep into the classics. If you’re well-read, you’ll get all the jokes. The conversation with Dido is one of my favorites.
Howl’s Moving Castle, by Diana Wynne Jones, $3.50. Amy used this book and others to create a massive Studio Ghibli unit study. Here is her review: “Sometimes a curse can be just what you needed, as Sophie discovers in this delightful fantasy about a hat maker's daughter who's cursed to premature old age by the Witch of the Waste. To break the curse, Sophie will need to team up with the mysterious wizard Howl, who happens to be stuck under a curse of his own—but first, she'll have to get to his castle, which has a habit of wandering around. I love this as a readaloud, on its own, or (of course) a companion piece to the equally wonderful (though often quite different) movie adaptation.”
Stinkiest! 20 Smelly Animals, by Steve Jenkins, $3.99. Can you name 20 smelly animals? I’m not sure I could without reading this fun picture book. There’s a skunk on the cover, but Jenkins introduces readers to opossoms, hoopoes, millipedes, and lots of other big and little stinkers. If your kids are into gross facts (and who isn’t?), they will have a great time with this book.
Seeing Science: An Illustrated Guide to the Wonders of the Universe, by Iris Gottlieb, $2.99. This book is really cool. Gottlieb is an illustrator who is fascinated by the natural world. She brings her unique blend of cartoon and realism to topics in biology, earth science, and physics. The result is a charming and and detailed look at many interesting aspects of science. Visual learners and science fans will love this. The topics range from basic (how we know something is alive) to theoretical and complex (quantum superposition).
Art Before Breakfast: A Zillion Ways to be More Creative No Matter How Busy You Are, by Danny Gregory, $2.99. My daughter loves doing art and fills lots of her spare time making things. I’ve never considered myself an artist and struggle to find time to develop my skills. This book is a great place to start. Danny Gregory has created short, fun activities that take 10 minutes or less. They will encourage you to make art a regular part of your life. This book is a great way to add some art education to your homeschool, or to carve out a bit of time for your own creativity.
How Art Can Make You Happy, by Bridget Watson Payne, $1.99. A lot of homeschoolers I know have trouble working art into their education plans. This little book can help to bring some fresh ideas to your school year! With a focus on finding joy in experiencing and making art, this collection of tips, quotes, and pep talks is useful and inspiring.
Grammar Girl’s 101 Words to Sound Smart, by Mignon Fogarty, $3.99. I really like Mignon Fogarty’s grammar guides. She is thorough but fun and quippy. This short book is a collection of interesting words (e.g., diaphanous and jejune) that are often thrown around by smart people. Each word gets a paragraph or two explaining what it means and one or more quotations offering examples of how to use it. You’ll find the book useful for beefing up SAT vocabulary and adding sophistication to high school writing.
The Emotion Thesaurus: A Writer’s Guide to Character Expression, by Angela Ackerman and Becca Puglisi, $1.49. As a word nerd, I find this book so cool! The authors cover more than 100 different emotional states and offer ideas for what it might look like if a character was experiencing them, or if they were trying to cover them up. This goes well beyond happy or angry; sections include horror, insecurity, and envy.
How to Write a Story, by Kate Messner, $1.99. I love this picture book! It’s a step-by-step guide to writing a story, from brainstorming an idea to putting a polished version down on paper. It’s definitely educational, but not the least bit boring. The illustrations follow a girl as she creates her own very exciting story involving dragons and sea monsters.
The Princess Will Save You, by Sarah Henning, $2.99. This action-packed YA novel has some definite Princess Bride vibes, but with a fierce twist. When Princess Amarande’s father dies, the ruler of a neighboring kingdom tries to force her into marriage by kidnapping her beloved. But Amarande is a warrior and is not going to go without a fight. The result is lots of swashbuckling, a bit of romance, betrayal, and bravery.
The Star-Touched Queen, by Roshani Chokshi, $2.99. This YA fantasy novel got a lot of buzz a few years ago. Here’s the publisher’s description: “Maya is cursed. With a horoscope that promises a marriage of Death and Destruction, she has earned only the scorn and fear of her father's kingdom. Content to follow more scholarly pursuits, her whole world is torn apart when her father, the Raja, arranges a wedding of political convenience to quell outside rebellions. Soon Maya becomes the queen of Akaran and wife of Amar. Neither roles are what she expected: As Akaran's queen, she finds her voice and power. As Amar's wife, she finds something else entirely: Compassion. Protection. Desire...
But Akaran has its own secrets -- thousands of locked doors, gardens of glass, and a tree that bears memories instead of fruit. Soon, Maya suspects her life is in danger. Yet who, besides her husband, can she trust? With the fate of the human and Otherworldly realms hanging in the balance, Maya must unravel an ancient mystery that spans reincarnated lives to save those she loves the most… including herself.”
Royal Academy Rebels: Misfits, by Jen Calonita, $0.99. Devin wants to be a veterinarian, but alas, she was born a princess and must attend the Royal Academy. At this prestigious boarding school for future rulers, Devin and her fellow classmates will learn all they need to know, but their headmistress seems very worried about the possibility of an attack. Are they in danger? Note: This book ends in the middle of the action, so be prepared to seek out the second book in the series right away!
The Princess Rules: It’s a Prince Thing, by Philippa Gregory, $0.99. Being a princess comes with a long list of rules and expectations. But in Florizella’s kingdom, princes can do whatever they want. When the stork delivers a baby boy to the palace, Princess Florizella is determined to show her brother all the wonders of the kingdom… and to fight the customs that give boys options and girls restrictions. You may know Philippa Gregory for her richly detailed adult historical fiction. She brings the same skill to this series for early middle-grade readers.
Demigods and Monsters: Your Favorite Authors on Rick Riordan’s Percy Jackson and the Olympians Series, edited by Rick Riordan, $3.99. This is a really fun essay collection about the world of Percy Jackson. 15 (mostly YA and science fiction) authors have come together to write about how to identify a monster when you see one, why humans are drawn to mythology, how Percy’s dyslexia and ADHD shape his character, and many other interesting topics. I know so many kids who have devoured every Riordan book (and all of the books from his publishing imprint); they will love this book!
Nordic Tales: Folktales from Norway, Sweden, Finland, Iceland, and Denmark, by Chronicle Books, $2.99. These folktales are full of trolls, ogres, dragons, and other creatures. A few are familiar, but most are not well know in the U.S. You’ll find tales of trickery, transformation, and travel in this charmingly illustrated collection.
The Brothers Grimm: Illuminated Fairy Tales, by The Brothers Grimm, $1.99. Occasionally you find a book that is uniquely designed for the ebook format. This collection of Grimm Fairy Tales is beautifully illustrated, with subtly animated elements! As you read, you can watch the witch threaten Hansel and Gretel. Each story is illustrated in a different artist, and you could compare and contrast their styles for a fun art lesson.
The Jane Austen Handbook, by Margaret Sullivan, $2.99. Both Austen newbies and proper Janeites will find this delightful little guidebook very useful. A light, tongue-in-cheek tone pairs well with a serious vault of knowledge about Regency England. Not sure whether a Marquis outranks a Duke? Or how rich Mr. Darcy would be in modern terms? This book will help fill in all the gaps.
Who is Greta Thunberg? by Jill Leonard, $4.99. Get to know Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg in this elementary biography. From the publisher: “When she was just fifteen years old, Greta Thunberg knew she wanted to change the world. With a hand-painted sign that read "School strike for the climate" in Swedish, Greta sat alone on the steps of the Swedish parliament to call for stronger action on climate change. Her one-person strike would soon spark a worldwide movement. This exciting story details the defining moments in Greta's childhood that led up to her now-famous strike and all the monumental ones that have fueled her revolution since, including being named Time's Most Influential Person of the Year in 2019.”
Molecules: The Elements and Architecture of Everything, by Theodore Gray, $0.99. If you’ve already gotten to know the periodic elements, it is time to step up to learning about molecules. Theodore Gray starts by explaining the basics of bonding and how bond types affect physical structure. The rest of the book is made up of profiles of different compounds, detailing their composition, usage, and history. As in all of Gray’s books, there are copious detailed photo illustrations.
Ripped From the Headlines: The Shocking True Stories Behind the Movies’ Most Memorable Crimes, by Harold Schechter, $1.99. So many of the plotlines from famous movies have been taken from true-life events. Historian Harold Schechter reveals all the fascinating stories behind films like Scream, Psycho, and Dirty Harry. This is a fun exploration for true crime fans and movie buffs alike!
Rise of the Jumbies, by Tracey Baptiste, $1.99. I’ve featured The Jumbies in the Kindle deals before. If your kids enjoy Rick Riordan books, they will get excited about this series based on Carribbean folklore. In the second book, Corinne must venture into to sea to request the help of the powerful jumbie Mama D’Leau. Mama D’Leau’s price for help is a powerful object, and Corinne and her friends must set off on a dangerous quest to retrieve it.
Tasting the World: One Country at a Time, by Nicole O’Donnell, $2.99. This book is so cool! O’Donnell has collected recipes from more than 200 countries. I wish there were pictures, but I do appreciate her ratings system for ease of preparation, availability of ingredients, and degree of divergence from American flavor profiles. Pair this book with your geography lessons for a delicious enrichment.
Recipes from the World of Tolkein: Inspired by the Legends, by Robert Tuesley Anderson, $1.99. Supplement your reading to The Lord of the Rings with some “authentic” recipes! This small volume has many recipes (Brandywine Fish Pie, Beorn’s Twice-Baked Cakes) and beautiful watercolor illustrations. Essays about the importance of food in Middle Earth make for delicious reading.
The Language of Spells, by Garret Weyr, $1.99. Amy liked this book, but warns that it is SAD. It’s a metaphor of the Holocaust through dragon-based fantasy. Here’s a bit of her review: “A lonely Viennese girl teams up with a dragon to solve the biggest mystery of World War II and figure out what happened to all the dragons. You’re plunged into an alternate magical world, where cats can run government agencies and dragons can spend decades trapped inside a teapot, and it’s a thrilling plunge. It’s alternate history! And magic! And lonely girls finding their people (or, you know, dragons) for the first time.”
The Classical Music Book, by DK Publishing, $1.99. This book is overflowing with music history information. Inside, you’ll find details about famous (and less famous) composers, instruments, musical styles, and much much more.
Nicola and the Viscount, by Meg Cabot, $1.99. Meg Cabot, who you may know from The Princess Diaries, is back with a historical YA romance. Here’s the publisher’s description: “Nicola Sparks, sixteen and an orphan, is ready to dive headlong into her first glittering London society season. She's also ready to dive headlong into the arms of handsome and debonair Lord Sebastian Bartholomew. Nicola's dream is a proposal from the viscount—a dream she's about to realize at last! So naturally, Nathaniel Sheridan's insinuations about her fiancé's flawed character annoy her mightily. But when Nicola's natural curiosity gets the best of her, she begins to piece together a few things for herself. To her great surprise, Nicola realizes she's had the wrong viscount all along . . . but is it too late to make things right?”
Her Right Foot, by Dave Eggers, $2.99. This beautiful picture book takes a look at the history of the Statue of Liberty. More than that, Eggers uses the statue to address the inherent freedoms that form the basis of American culture and government. Shawn Harris’s mixed-media illustrations are simple but visually interesting.
City Signs, by Zoran Milich, $3.99. Help your child get to know the words they might find around a city! The only text in this book is found on the signs themselves, but flipping through the photos is an excellent starting point for conversations about all the workers, transportation, and businesses you can find in an urban environment.
DK Readers: Homes Around the World, by Max Moore, $2.99. This level 1 reader will takes kids around the world to visit houses on stilts, in caves, and high up in trees. As always, DK’s gorgeous photo illustrations bring each setting to life.
The Sun is a Compass: My 4,000-Mile Journey Into the Alaskan Wilds, by Caroline Van Hemert, $4.49. Caroline Van Hemert is an ornithologist who was feeling frustrated with how much time she was spending in the lab. Determined to get back in touch with nature, she decided to take a massive trip, by boat and on foot, through the wilderness of Alaska. She approaches her journey with an adventurer’s spirit and a biologist’s eye for details in the world around her.
Science in Seconds: 200 Key Concepts Explained in an Instant, by Hazel Muir, $4.99. Looking for a quick explainer on, well, just about any major science concept? This book has got you covered. Muir has collected diagrams and short descriptions of black holes, gravity, surface tension, and dozens more topics.
Science Wide Open: Women in Physics, by Mary Wissinger, $2.99. I’m really impressed with this picture book. A curious girl asks questions about the world (e.g., “Why do things fall down?”), and the book answers each question with factual information about science and the women who contributed to each discovery. If you like this one, you might consider the other books in the series!
What If You Had Animal Feet? by Sandra Markle, $2.99. How would your life be different if you had animal feet? Would you climb walls? Balance on tiny ledges? The books in this series are full of fascinating facts about the animal kingdom, but what really sets them apart are the weird and wonderful illustrations imagining kids with animal features.
Tomorrow Most Likely, by Dave Eggers, $1.99. It may be time for bed, but one little boy’s thoughts are all about what the next day will bring. Follow his trains of thought about the sights, sounds, and smells he may discover when he wakes up. This simple, hopeful book is perfect for bedtime.
Rain Brings Frogs: A Little Book of Hope, by Maryann Cocca-Leffler, $2.99. Nate is a kid who sees things in his own special way. When faced with a setback or shortage, Nate finds something to be proud or hopeful about. The illustrations are adorable, and the message of simple gratitude is useful.
The OK Book, by Amy Krouse Rosenthal, $2.99. Amy Krouse Rosenthal is one of my absolute favorite children’s authors. Her books are full of wit and warmth, and The OK Book is no exception. OK is a character (created by the letters O and K turn on their side) who likes to try a lot of things, even things that don’t come naturally. OK assures readers that it’s good to be OK at lots of things, and that trying things is how you discover what will make you great.
Binti: The Complete Trilogy, by Nnedi Okorafor, $4.99. This sci-fi novella collection 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 collects all three Binti novellas, following Binti from her first voyage to university through Binti’s unique path to bringing peace to ancient enemies. I absolutely tore through these books, and I’m delighted that they are all packaged together.
Sleeping Giants, by Sylvain Neuvel, $3.99. I love a good epistolary novel. It’s fascinating to watch a plot come together from a collection of documents. Sleeping Giants is the first in a series about the discovery of an enormous metal hand buried underground. Where did it come from? What does it mean?
My Alien Parents, by R.L. Stine, $3.99. If you were born within 10 years of me, the name R.L. Stine probably sends a little shiver down your spine. He has been writing creepy books for kids and teens for decades. Introduce the next generation to the thrills and chills with this short, fun story about a kid who is convinced his parents are secretly aliens.
Asian-Americans Who Inspire Us, by Analiza Quiroz Wolf, $2.99. This picture book profiles 16 people who have done tremendous things in a wide variety of fields (sports, politics, activism, music). The illustrations really set this book apart. Unlike many biography collections, each person has several images accompanying the text.
Rags and Bones: New Twists on Timeless Tales, edited by Melissa Marr and Tim Pratt, $1.99. This fascinating short story collection reimagines classic stories in new genres. Big names in YA literature (e.g., Neil Gaiman, Garth Nix) have contributed stories to the collection. Some of the stories that provide original inspiration are obscure but worthy of exploration in their own right. Use this collection as a springboard for further literary explrations!
What Can I Be? STEM Careers from A to Z, by Tiffani Teachey, $2.99. This short and sweet book highlights a wide variety of STEM careers. There is not a lot of detail about each field, but this would make an excellent jumping off point for further research. I particularly appreciate the ethnic and gender diversity in the illustrations. Every kid will find someone who looks like them within the pages.
Let’s Meet a Construction Worker, by Bridget Heos, $4.99. This is only one in a series of short books introducing community helpers of all sorts. Fun cartoon-style illustrations accompany interesting information about construction machinery, safety procedures, and more.
Kindle Deals for August 23, 2021
It’s YA day!
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.
Do You Dream of Terra-Two? by Temi Oh, $1.99. This sci-fi book won the Alex prize for adult fiction of particular interested to YA readers. A team of teens and adult scientists is sent off on a 20-year mission to prepare a new planet for human colonization. Locked within the spaceship for decades, they must rely fully on each other for survival. Oh captures the alternating boredom and terror of a life in the unknown. Though the setting inextricably influences the story, the real plot is about the human interactions, not space itself.
I Know What You Did Last Summer, by Lois Duncan, $2.99. Lois Duncan is a master of classic YA suspense. The stakes are very high in this 1970s novel about teens trying to evade a mysterious stranger who is out to punish them for a hit-and-run accident. I can’t remember enough about the 1990s movie adaptation to specifically recommend it, but if you have a suspense/horror fan, you could do a book-movie comparison!
Elatsoe, by Darcy Little Badger, $2.99. This award-winning fantasy novel presents a fresh and unique voice. From the publisher: “Elatsoe—Ellie for short—lives in an alternate contemporary America shaped by the ancestral magics and knowledge of its Indigenous and immigrant groups. She can raise the spirits of dead animals—most importantly, her ghost dog Kirby. When her beloved cousin dies, all signs point to a car crash, but his ghost tells her otherwise: He was murdered. Who killed him and how did he die? With the help of her family, her best friend Jay, and the memory great, great, great, great, great, great grandmother, Elatsoe, must track down the killer and unravel the mystery of this creepy town and its dark past. But will the nefarious townsfolk and a mysterious Doctor stop her before she gets started? A breathtaking debut novel featuring an asexual, Apache teen protagonist, Elatsoe combines mystery, horror, noir, ancestral knowledge, haunting illustrations, fantasy elements, and is one of the most-talked about debuts of the year.”
The Testing, by Joelle Charbonneau, $1.99. Calling all fans of The Hunger Games or Divergent! This series should scratch that dystopian coming-of-age itch. Here’s a summary from the publisher: “It’s graduation day for sixteen-year-old Malencia Vale, and the entire Five Lakes Colony (the former Great Lakes) is celebrating. All Cia can think about—hope for—is whether she’ll be chosen for The Testing, a United Commonwealth program that selects the best and brightest new graduates to become possible leaders of the slowly revitalizing post-war civilization. When Cia is chosen, her father finally tells her about his own nightmarish half-memories of The Testing. Armed with his dire warnings (“Cia, trust no one”), she bravely heads off to Tosu City, far away from friends and family, perhaps forever. Danger, romance—and sheer terror—await.”
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. For a more in-depth review, check out Amy’s Readaloud of the Week post!
My Family Divided, by Diane Guerrero, $2.99. Guerrero is known for her work on Orange is the New Black, but before she became an actress, she was a Latinx kid growing up near Boston. Diane was a citizen; her parents were not. One day, while Diane was at school, her parents were arrested and then deported. Since that time, she has been a passionate voice for immigration reform. My Family Divided is the young readers version of Guerrero’s memoir about her childhood and activism.
Prairie Lotus, by Linda Sue Park, $2.99. If your kids enjoy Little House on the Prairie but you are looking to increase the diversity of your reading list, you should definitely pick up this one! Hanna is an Asian girl living in a small prairie town in 1880. She wants to make friends and go to school, but the racism of the other townspeople make her existence hard. Park doesn’t shrink from the harsh realities of history, but the story is touching and funny.
Dog Days, by Karen English, $1.99. You may have encountered English’s previous early chapter book series, Nikki and Deja. The Carver Chronicles is set in that same universe but centers boys’ stories! Dog Days is about Gavin, a new kid who loves skateboarding. When he is assigned care of his great-aunt’s fussy Pomeranian as a consequence for getting into trouble, he worries no one will ever think he is cool with the dog in tow. Short chapters and dynamic illustrations make this one a fun read.
Jane Austen Cover to Cover: 200 Years of Classic Covers, by Margaret C. Sullivan, $3.99. Ok, I’ll admit it — this is a VERY specific book, but I know some of you will appreciate it. Sullivan has collected images of dozens of physical copies of Austen’s works. She provides an excellent chronology of their publication and reissue. If you are fascinated by book-binding, cover art, or Austen, you will love this book.
Booked: A Traveler’s Guide to Literary Locations Around the World, by Richard Kreitner, $3.99. If you’ve ever wanted to visit the setting of your favorite book, you will want to pick up this travel guide. Kreitner has selected places made famous in children’s and adult literature, both in the US and abroad. He includes short passages from the books in question, along with a discussion of the significance of each place and practical tips for visiting.
Dear Fahrenheit 451: Love and Heartbreak in the Stacks — A Librarian's Love Letters and Breakup Notes to the Books in Her Life, by Annie Spence, $2.99. Do we need another book about books? I’m going to go with yes. Annie Spence reads a lot, loves her books, and has interested takes on new and old classics. The first part of the book is hilarious letters to books of many genres and age ranges. Some are love letters, some are angry notes. The second second is full of essays about the joys and sorrows of reading and book lists in various categories.
Texts from Jane Eyre: And Other Conversations with Your Favorite Literary Characters, by Mallory Ortberg, $2.99. This fun, short book is a huge hit at HSL. It’s a collection of conversations with fictional characters, from Mr. Rochester to Daisy Buchanan. The conversations are clever, funny, and intelligent. I can’t think of another book that does a better job of encouraging readers to dig deep into the classics. If you’re well-read, you’ll get all the jokes. The conversation with Dido is one of my favorites.
Howl’s Moving Castle, by Diana Wynne Jones, $3.50. Amy used this book and others to create a massive Studio Ghibli unit study. Here is her review: “Sometimes a curse can be just what you needed, as Sophie discovers in this delightful fantasy about a hat maker's daughter who's cursed to premature old age by the Witch of the Waste. To break the curse, Sophie will need to team up with the mysterious wizard Howl, who happens to be stuck under a curse of his own—but first, she'll have to get to his castle, which has a habit of wandering around. I love this as a readaloud, on its own, or (of course) a companion piece to the equally wonderful (though often quite different) movie adaptation.”
The Bell Jar, by Sylvia Plath, $3.50. From our What You Should Read in High School list: “Perhaps no author better captures the downward spiral of depression into madness than Plath does in this semi-autobiographical novel.”
Stinkiest! 20 Smelly Animals, by Steve Jenkins, $3.99. Can you name 20 smelly animals? I’m not sure I could without reading this fun picture book. There’s a skunk on the cover, but Jenkins introduces readers to opossoms, hoopoes, millipedes, and lots of other big and little stinkers. If your kids are into gross facts (and who isn’t?), they will have a great time with this book.
Seeing Science: An Illustrated Guide to the Wonders of the Universe, by Iris Gottlieb, $2.99. This book is really cool. Gottlieb is an illustrator who is fascinated by the natural world. She brings her unique blend of cartoon and realism to topics in biology, earth science, and physics. The result is a charming and and detailed look at many interesting aspects of science. Visual learners and science fans will love this. The topics range from basic (how we know something is alive) to theoretical and complex (quantum superposition).
Art Before Breakfast: A Zillion Ways to be More Creative No Matter How Busy You Are, by Danny Gregory, $2.99. My daughter loves doing art and fills lots of her spare time making things. I’ve never considered myself an artist and struggle to find time to develop my skills. This book is a great place to start. Danny Gregory has created short, fun activities that take 10 minutes or less. They will encourage you to make art a regular part of your life. This book is a great way to add some art education to your homeschool, or to carve out a bit of time for your own creativity.
How Art Can Make You Happy, by Bridget Watson Payne, $1.99. A lot of homeschoolers I know have trouble working art into their education plans. This little book can help to bring some fresh ideas to your school year! With a focus on finding joy in experiencing and making art, this collection of tips, quotes, and pep talks is useful and inspiring.
Grammar Girl’s 101 Words to Sound Smart, by Mignon Fogarty, $3.99. I really like Mignon Fogarty’s grammar guides. She is thorough but fun and quippy. This short book is a collection of interesting words (e.g., diaphanous and jejune) that are often thrown around by smart people. Each word gets a paragraph or two explaining what it means and one or more quotations offering examples of how to use it. You’ll find the book useful for beefing up SAT vocabulary and adding sophistication to high school writing.
The Emotion Thesaurus: A Writer’s Guide to Character Expression, by Angela Ackerman and Becca Puglisi, $1.49. As a word nerd, I find this book so cool! The authors cover more than 100 different emotional states and offer ideas for what it might look like if a character was experiencing them, or if they were trying to cover them up. This goes well beyond happy or angry; sections include horror, insecurity, and envy.
How to Write a Story, by Kate Messner, $1.99. I love this picture book! It’s a step-by-step guide to writing a story, from brainstorming an idea to putting a polished version down on paper. It’s definitely educational, but not the least bit boring. The illustrations follow a girl as she creates her own very exciting story involving dragons and sea monsters.
The Princess Will Save You, by Sarah Henning, $2.99. This action-packed YA novel has some definite Princess Bride vibes, but with a fierce twist. When Princess Amarande’s father dies, the ruler of a neighboring kingdom tries to force her into marriage by kidnapping her beloved. But Amarande is a warrior and is not going to go without a fight. The result is lots of swashbuckling, a bit of romance, betrayal, and bravery.
The Star-Touched Queen, by Roshani Chokshi, $2.99. This YA fantasy novel got a lot of buzz a few years ago. Here’s the publisher’s description: “Maya is cursed. With a horoscope that promises a marriage of Death and Destruction, she has earned only the scorn and fear of her father's kingdom. Content to follow more scholarly pursuits, her whole world is torn apart when her father, the Raja, arranges a wedding of political convenience to quell outside rebellions. Soon Maya becomes the queen of Akaran and wife of Amar. Neither roles are what she expected: As Akaran's queen, she finds her voice and power. As Amar's wife, she finds something else entirely: Compassion. Protection. Desire...
But Akaran has its own secrets -- thousands of locked doors, gardens of glass, and a tree that bears memories instead of fruit. Soon, Maya suspects her life is in danger. Yet who, besides her husband, can she trust? With the fate of the human and Otherworldly realms hanging in the balance, Maya must unravel an ancient mystery that spans reincarnated lives to save those she loves the most… including herself.”
Royal Academy Rebels: Misfits, by Jen Calonita, $0.99. Devin wants to be a veterinarian, but alas, she was born a princess and must attend the Royal Academy. At this prestigious boarding school for future rulers, Devin and her fellow classmates will learn all they need to know, but their headmistress seems very worried about the possibility of an attack. Are they in danger? Note: This book ends in the middle of the action, so be prepared to seek out the second book in the series right away!
The Princess Rules: It’s a Prince Thing, by Philippa Gregory, $0.99. Being a princess comes with a long list of rules and expectations. But in Florizella’s kingdom, princes can do whatever they want. When the stork delivers a baby boy to the palace, Princess Florizella is determined to show her brother all the wonders of the kingdom… and to fight the customs that give boys options and girls restrictions. You may know Philippa Gregory for her richly detailed adult historical fiction. She brings the same skill to this series for early middle-grade readers.
Demigods and Monsters: Your Favorite Authors on Rick Riordan’s Percy Jackson and the Olympians Series, edited by Rick Riordan, $3.99. This is a really fun essay collection about the world of Percy Jackson. 15 (mostly YA and science fiction) authors have come together to write about how to identify a monster when you see one, why humans are drawn to mythology, how Percy’s dyslexia and ADHD shape his character, and many other interesting topics. I know so many kids who have devoured every Riordan book (and all of the books from his publishing imprint); they will love this book!
Nordic Tales: Folktales from Norway, Sweden, Finland, Iceland, and Denmark, by Chronicle Books, $2.99. These folktales are full of trolls, ogres, dragons, and other creatures. A few are familiar, but most are not well know in the U.S. You’ll find tales of trickery, transformation, and travel in this charmingly illustrated collection.
The Brothers Grimm: Illuminated Fairy Tales, by The Brothers Grimm, $1.99. Occasionally you find a book that is uniquely designed for the ebook format. This collection of Grimm Fairy Tales is beautifully illustrated, with subtly animated elements! As you read, you can watch the witch threaten Hansel and Gretel. Each story is illustrated in a different artist, and you could compare and contrast their styles for a fun art lesson.
The Jane Austen Handbook, by Margaret Sullivan, $2.99. Both Austen newbies and proper Janeites will find this delightful little guidebook very useful. A light, tongue-in-cheek tone pairs well with a serious vault of knowledge about Regency England. Not sure whether a Marquis outranks a Duke? Or how rich Mr. Darcy would be in modern terms? This book will help fill in all the gaps.
Who is Greta Thunberg? by Jill Leonard, $4.99. Get to know Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg in this elementary biography. From the publisher: “When she was just fifteen years old, Greta Thunberg knew she wanted to change the world. With a hand-painted sign that read "School strike for the climate" in Swedish, Greta sat alone on the steps of the Swedish parliament to call for stronger action on climate change. Her one-person strike would soon spark a worldwide movement. This exciting story details the defining moments in Greta's childhood that led up to her now-famous strike and all the monumental ones that have fueled her revolution since, including being named Time's Most Influential Person of the Year in 2019.”
Molecules: The Elements and Architecture of Everything, by Theodore Gray, $0.99. If you’ve already gotten to know the periodic elements, it is time to step up to learning about molecules. Theodore Gray starts by explaining the basics of bonding and how bond types affect physical structure. The rest of the book is made up of profiles of different compounds, detailing their composition, usage, and history. As in all of Gray’s books, there are copious detailed photo illustrations.
Ripped From the Headlines: The Shocking True Stories Behind the Movies’ Most Memorable Crimes, by Harold Schechter, $1.99. So many of the plotlines from famous movies have been taken from true-life events. Historian Harold Schechter reveals all the fascinating stories behind films like Scream, Psycho, and Dirty Harry. This is a fun exploration for true crime fans and movie buffs alike!
Rise of the Jumbies, by Tracey Baptiste, $1.99. I’ve featured The Jumbies in the Kindle deals before. If your kids enjoy Rick Riordan books, they will get excited about this series based on Carribbean folklore. In the second book, Corinne must venture into to sea to request the help of the powerful jumbie Mama D’Leau. Mama D’Leau’s price for help is a powerful object, and Corinne and her friends must set off on a dangerous quest to retrieve it.
Tasting the World: One Country at a Time, by Nicole O’Donnell, $2.99. This book is so cool! O’Donnell has collected recipes from more than 200 countries. I wish there were pictures, but I do appreciate her ratings system for ease of preparation, availability of ingredients, and degree of divergence from American flavor profiles. Pair this book with your geography lessons for a delicious enrichment.
Recipes from the World of Tolkein: Inspired by the Legends, by Robert Tuesley Anderson, $1.99. Supplement your reading to The Lord of the Rings with some “authentic” recipes! This small volume has many recipes (Brandywine Fish Pie, Beorn’s Twice-Baked Cakes) and beautiful watercolor illustrations. Essays about the importance of food in Middle Earth make for delicious reading.
The Language of Spells, by Garret Weyr, $1.99. Amy liked this book, but warns that it is SAD. It’s a metaphor of the Holocaust through dragon-based fantasy. Here’s a bit of her review: “A lonely Viennese girl teams up with a dragon to solve the biggest mystery of World War II and figure out what happened to all the dragons. You’re plunged into an alternate magical world, where cats can run government agencies and dragons can spend decades trapped inside a teapot, and it’s a thrilling plunge. It’s alternate history! And magic! And lonely girls finding their people (or, you know, dragons) for the first time.”
The Classical Music Book, by DK Publishing, $1.99. This book is overflowing with music history information. Inside, you’ll find details about famous (and less famous) composers, instruments, musical styles, and much much more.
Nicola and the Viscount, by Meg Cabot, $1.99. Meg Cabot, who you may know from The Princess Diaries, is back with a historical YA romance. Here’s the publisher’s description: “Nicola Sparks, sixteen and an orphan, is ready to dive headlong into her first glittering London society season. She's also ready to dive headlong into the arms of handsome and debonair Lord Sebastian Bartholomew. Nicola's dream is a proposal from the viscount—a dream she's about to realize at last! So naturally, Nathaniel Sheridan's insinuations about her fiancé's flawed character annoy her mightily. But when Nicola's natural curiosity gets the best of her, she begins to piece together a few things for herself. To her great surprise, Nicola realizes she's had the wrong viscount all along . . . but is it too late to make things right?”
Her Right Foot, by Dave Eggers, $2.99. This beautiful picture book takes a look at the history of the Statue of Liberty. More than that, Eggers uses the statue to address the inherent freedoms that form the basis of American culture and government. Shawn Harris’s mixed-media illustrations are simple but visually interesting.
City Signs, by Zoran Milich, $3.99. Help your child get to know the words they might find around a city! The only text in this book is found on the signs themselves, but flipping through the photos is an excellent starting point for conversations about all the workers, transportation, and businesses you can find in an urban environment.
DK Readers: Homes Around the World, by Max Moore, $2.99. This level 1 reader will takes kids around the world to visit houses on stilts, in caves, and high up in trees. As always, DK’s gorgeous photo illustrations bring each setting to life.
The Sun is a Compass: My 4,000-Mile Journey Into the Alaskan Wilds, by Caroline Van Hemert, $4.49. Caroline Van Hemert is an ornithologist who was feeling frustrated with how much time she was spending in the lab. Determined to get back in touch with nature, she decided to take a massive trip, by boat and on foot, through the wilderness of Alaska. She approaches her journey with an adventurer’s spirit and a biologist’s eye for details in the world around her.
Science in Seconds: 200 Key Concepts Explained in an Instant, by Hazel Muir, $4.99. Looking for a quick explainer on, well, just about any major science concept? This book has got you covered. Muir has collected diagrams and short descriptions of black holes, gravity, surface tension, and dozens more topics.
Science Wide Open: Women in Physics, by Mary Wissinger, $2.99. I’m really impressed with this picture book. A curious girl asks questions about the world (e.g., “Why do things fall down?”), and the book answers each question with factual information about science and the women who contributed to each discovery. If you like this one, you might consider the other books in the series!
What If You Had Animal Feet? by Sandra Markle, $2.99. How would your life be different if you had animal feet? Would you climb walls? Balance on tiny ledges? The books in this series are full of fascinating facts about the animal kingdom, but what really sets them apart are the weird and wonderful illustrations imagining kids with animal features.
Tomorrow Most Likely, by Dave Eggers, $1.99. It may be time for bed, but one little boy’s thoughts are all about what the next day will bring. Follow his trains of thought about the sights, sounds, and smells he may discover when he wakes up. This simple, hopeful book is perfect for bedtime.
Rain Brings Frogs: A Little Book of Hope, by Maryann Cocca-Leffler, $2.99. Nate is a kid who sees things in his own special way. When faced with a setback or shortage, Nate finds something to be proud or hopeful about. The illustrations are adorable, and the message of simple gratitude is useful.
The OK Book, by Amy Krouse Rosenthal, $2.99. Amy Krouse Rosenthal is one of my absolute favorite children’s authors. Her books are full of wit and warmth, and The OK Book is no exception. OK is a character (created by the letters O and K turn on their side) who likes to try a lot of things, even things that don’t come naturally. OK assures readers that it’s good to be OK at lots of things, and that trying things is how you discover what will make you great.
Binti: The Complete Trilogy, by Nnedi Okorafor, $4.99. This sci-fi novella collection 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 collects all three Binti novellas, following Binti from her first voyage to university through Binti’s unique path to bringing peace to ancient enemies. I absolutely tore through these books, and I’m delighted that they are all packaged together.
Sleeping Giants, by Sylvain Neuvel, $3.99. I love a good epistolary novel. It’s fascinating to watch a plot come together from a collection of documents. Sleeping Giants is the first in a series about the discovery of an enormous metal hand buried underground. Where did it come from? What does it mean?
My Alien Parents, by R.L. Stine, $3.99. If you were born within 10 years of me, the name R.L. Stine probably sends a little shiver down your spine. He has been writing creepy books for kids and teens for decades. Introduce the next generation to the thrills and chills with this short, fun story about a kid who is convinced his parents are secretly aliens.
Asian-Americans Who Inspire Us, by Analiza Quiroz Wolf, $2.99. This picture book profiles 16 people who have done tremendous things in a wide variety of fields (sports, politics, activism, music). The illustrations really set this book apart. Unlike many biography collections, each person has several images accompanying the text.
Rags and Bones: New Twists on Timeless Tales, edited by Melissa Marr and Tim Pratt, $1.99. This fascinating short story collection reimagines classic stories in new genres. Big names in YA literature (e.g., Neil Gaiman, Garth Nix) have contributed stories to the collection. Some of the stories that provide original inspiration are obscure but worthy of exploration in their own right. Use this collection as a springboard for further literary explrations!
What Can I Be? STEM Careers from A to Z, by Tiffani Teachey, $2.99. This short and sweet book highlights a wide variety of STEM careers. There is not a lot of detail about each field, but this would make an excellent jumping off point for further research. I particularly appreciate the ethnic and gender diversity in the illustrations. Every kid will find someone who looks like them within the pages.
Let’s Meet a Construction Worker, by Bridget Heos, $4.99. This is only one in a series of short books introducing community helpers of all sorts. Fun cartoon-style illustrations accompany interesting information about construction machinery, safety procedures, and more.
Kindle Deals for August 19, 2021
Diversify your elementary/middle school book shelf!
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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Dog Days, by Karen English, $1.99. You may have encountered English’s previous early chapter book series, Nikki and Deja. The Carver Chronicles is set in that same universe but centers boys’ stories! Dog Days is about Gavin, a new kid who loves skateboarding. When he is assigned care of his great-aunt’s fussy Pomeranian as a consequence for getting into trouble, he worries no one will ever think he is cool with the dog in tow. Short chapters and dynamic illustrations make this one a fun read.
Prairie Lotus, by Linda Sue Park, $2.99. If your kids enjoy Little House on the Prairie but you are looking to increase the diversity of your reading list, you should definitely pick up this one! Hanna is an Asian girl living in a small prairie town in 1880. She wants to make friends and go to school, but the racism of the other townspeople make her existence hard. Park doesn’t shrink from the harsh realities of history, but the story is touching and funny.
My Family Divided, by Diane Guerrero, $2.99. Guerrero is known for her work on Orange is the New Black, but before she became an actress, she was a Latinx kid growing up near Boston. Diane was a citizen; her parents were not. One day, while Diane was at school, her parents were arrested and then deported. Since that time, she has been a passionate voice for immigration reform. My Family Divided is the young readers version of Guerrero’s memoir about her childhood and activism.
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. For a more in-depth review, check out Amy’s Readaloud of the Week post!
STILL ON SALE
Jane Austen Cover to Cover: 200 Years of Classic Covers, by Margaret C. Sullivan, $3.99. Ok, I’ll admit it — this is a VERY specific book, but I know some of you will appreciate it. Sullivan has collected images of dozens of physical copies of Austen’s works. She provides an excellent chronology of their publication and reissue. If you are fascinated by book-binding, cover art, or Austen, you will love this book.
Booked: A Traveler’s Guide to Literary Locations Around the World, by Richard Kreitner, $3.99. If you’ve ever wanted to visit the setting of your favorite book, you will want to pick up this travel guide. Kreitner has selected places made famous in children’s and adult literature, both in the US and abroad. He includes short passages from the books in question, along with a discussion of the significance of each place and practical tips for visiting.
Dear Fahrenheit 451: Love and Heartbreak in the Stacks — A Librarian's Love Letters and Breakup Notes to the Books in Her Life, by Annie Spence, $2.99. Do we need another book about books? I’m going to go with yes. Annie Spence reads a lot, loves her books, and has interested takes on new and old classics. The first part of the book is hilarious letters to books of many genres and age ranges. Some are love letters, some are angry notes. The second second is full of essays about the joys and sorrows of reading and book lists in various categories.
Texts from Jane Eyre: And Other Conversations with Your Favorite Literary Characters, by Mallory Ortberg, $2.99. This fun, short book is a huge hit at HSL. It’s a collection of conversations with fictional characters, from Mr. Rochester to Daisy Buchanan. The conversations are clever, funny, and intelligent. I can’t think of another book that does a better job of encouraging readers to dig deep into the classics. If you’re well-read, you’ll get all the jokes. The conversation with Dido is one of my favorites.
Howl’s Moving Castle, by Diana Wynne Jones, $3.50. Amy used this book and others to create a massive Studio Ghibli unit study. Here is her review: “Sometimes a curse can be just what you needed, as Sophie discovers in this delightful fantasy about a hat maker's daughter who's cursed to premature old age by the Witch of the Waste. To break the curse, Sophie will need to team up with the mysterious wizard Howl, who happens to be stuck under a curse of his own—but first, she'll have to get to his castle, which has a habit of wandering around. I love this as a readaloud, on its own, or (of course) a companion piece to the equally wonderful (though often quite different) movie adaptation.”
The Bell Jar, by Sylvia Plath, $3.50. From our What You Should Read in High School list: “Perhaps no author better captures the downward spiral of depression into madness than Plath does in this semi-autobiographical novel.”
The Chronicles of Narnia: Complete 7-Book Collection, by C.S. Lewis, $4.99. Wow, this is a great deal! You can get the entire series for the price of one book. This engrossing fantasy series is great for discussion of allegory or the hero’s journey. Once you’re done, check out our list of books for people who liked the Narnia books!
To Kill a Mockingbird, by Harper Lee, $4.99. From our What You Should Read in Middle School list: “For many tweens, Harper Lee’s American classic is the first novel that really makes them sit up and pay attention to what literature can do. Scout, Boo Radley, and Atticus Finch are characters who stay with you.”
Stinkiest! 20 Smelly Animals, by Steve Jenkins, $3.99. Can you name 20 smelly animals? I’m not sure I could without reading this fun picture book. There’s a skunk on the cover, but Jenkins introduces readers to opossoms, hoopoes, millipedes, and lots of other big and little stinkers. If your kids are into gross facts (and who isn’t?), they will have a great time with this book.
Seeing Science: An Illustrated Guide to the Wonders of the Universe, by Iris Gottlieb, $2.99. This book is really cool. Gottlieb is an illustrator who is fascinated by the natural world. She brings her unique blend of cartoon and realism to topics in biology, earth science, and physics. The result is a charming and and detailed look at many interesting aspects of science. Visual learners and science fans will love this. The topics range from basic (how we know something is alive) to theoretical and complex (quantum superposition).
Art Before Breakfast: A Zillion Ways to be More Creative No Matter How Busy You Are, by Danny Gregory, $2.99. My daughter loves doing art and fills lots of her spare time making things. I’ve never considered myself an artist and struggle to find time to develop my skills. This book is a great place to start. Danny Gregory has created short, fun activities that take 10 minutes or less. They will encourage you to make art a regular part of your life. This book is a great way to add some art education to your homeschool, or to carve out a bit of time for your own creativity.
How Art Can Make You Happy, by Bridget Watson Payne, $1.99. A lot of homeschoolers I know have trouble working art into their education plans. This little book can help to bring some fresh ideas to your school year! With a focus on finding joy in experiencing and making art, this collection of tips, quotes, and pep talks is useful and inspiring.
Grammar Girl’s 101 Words to Sound Smart, by Mignon Fogarty, $3.99. I really like Mignon Fogarty’s grammar guides. She is thorough but fun and quippy. This short book is a collection of interesting words (e.g., diaphanous and jejune) that are often thrown around by smart people. Each word gets a paragraph or two explaining what it means and one or more quotations offering examples of how to use it. You’ll find the book useful for beefing up SAT vocabulary and adding sophistication to high school writing.
The Emotion Thesaurus: A Writer’s Guide to Character Expression, by Angela Ackerman and Becca Puglisi, $1.49. As a word nerd, I find this book so cool! The authors cover more than 100 different emotional states and offer ideas for what it might look like if a character was experiencing them, or if they were trying to cover them up. This goes well beyond happy or angry; sections include horror, insecurity, and envy.
How to Write a Story, by Kate Messner, $1.99. I love this picture book! It’s a step-by-step guide to writing a story, from brainstorming an idea to putting a polished version down on paper. It’s definitely educational, but not the least bit boring. The illustrations follow a girl as she creates her own very exciting story involving dragons and sea monsters.
The Princess Will Save You, by Sarah Henning, $2.99. This action-packed YA novel has some definite Princess Bride vibes, but with a fierce twist. When Princess Amarande’s father dies, the ruler of a neighboring kingdom tries to force her into marriage by kidnapping her beloved. But Amarande is a warrior and is not going to go without a fight. The result is lots of swashbuckling, a bit of romance, betrayal, and bravery.
The Star-Touched Queen, by Roshani Chokshi, $2.99. This YA fantasy novel got a lot of buzz a few years ago. Here’s the publisher’s description: “Maya is cursed. With a horoscope that promises a marriage of Death and Destruction, she has earned only the scorn and fear of her father's kingdom. Content to follow more scholarly pursuits, her whole world is torn apart when her father, the Raja, arranges a wedding of political convenience to quell outside rebellions. Soon Maya becomes the queen of Akaran and wife of Amar. Neither roles are what she expected: As Akaran's queen, she finds her voice and power. As Amar's wife, she finds something else entirely: Compassion. Protection. Desire...
But Akaran has its own secrets -- thousands of locked doors, gardens of glass, and a tree that bears memories instead of fruit. Soon, Maya suspects her life is in danger. Yet who, besides her husband, can she trust? With the fate of the human and Otherworldly realms hanging in the balance, Maya must unravel an ancient mystery that spans reincarnated lives to save those she loves the most… including herself.”
Royal Academy Rebels: Misfits, by Jen Calonita, $0.99. Devin wants to be a veterinarian, but alas, she was born a princess and must attend the Royal Academy. At this prestigious boarding school for future rulers, Devin and her fellow classmates will learn all they need to know, but their headmistress seems very worried about the possibility of an attack. Are they in danger? Note: This book ends in the middle of the action, so be prepared to seek out the second book in the series right away!
The Princess Rules: It’s a Prince Thing, by Philippa Gregory, $0.99. Being a princess comes with a long list of rules and expectations. But in Florizella’s kingdom, princes can do whatever they want. When the stork delivers a baby boy to the palace, Princess Florizella is determined to show her brother all the wonders of the kingdom… and to fight the customs that give boys options and girls restrictions. You may know Philippa Gregory for her richly detailed adult historical fiction. She brings the same skill to this series for early middle-grade readers.
Demigods and Monsters: Your Favorite Authors on Rick Riordan’s Percy Jackson and the Olympians Series, edited by Rick Riordan, $3.99. This is a really fun essay collection about the world of Percy Jackson. 15 (mostly YA and science fiction) authors have come together to write about how to identify a monster when you see one, why humans are drawn to mythology, how Percy’s dyslexia and ADHD shape his character, and many other interesting topics. I know so many kids who have devoured every Riordan book (and all of the books from his publishing imprint); they will love this book!
Nordic Tales: Folktales from Norway, Sweden, Finland, Iceland, and Denmark, by Chronicle Books, $2.99. These folktales are full of trolls, ogres, dragons, and other creatures. A few are familiar, but most are not well know in the U.S. You’ll find tales of trickery, transformation, and travel in this charmingly illustrated collection.
The Brothers Grimm: Illuminated Fairy Tales, by The Brothers Grimm, $1.99. Occasionally you find a book that is uniquely designed for the ebook format. This collection of Grimm Fairy Tales is beautifully illustrated, with subtly animated elements! As you read, you can watch the witch threaten Hansel and Gretel. Each story is illustrated in a different artist, and you could compare and contrast their styles for a fun art lesson.
The Jane Austen Handbook, by Margaret Sullivan, $2.99. Both Austen newbies and proper Janeites will find this delightful little guidebook very useful. A light, tongue-in-cheek tone pairs well with a serious vault of knowledge about Regency England. Not sure whether a Marquis outranks a Duke? Or how rich Mr. Darcy would be in modern terms? This book will help fill in all the gaps.
Who is Greta Thunberg? by Jill Leonard, $4.99. Get to know Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg in this elementary biography. From the publisher: “When she was just fifteen years old, Greta Thunberg knew she wanted to change the world. With a hand-painted sign that read "School strike for the climate" in Swedish, Greta sat alone on the steps of the Swedish parliament to call for stronger action on climate change. Her one-person strike would soon spark a worldwide movement. This exciting story details the defining moments in Greta's childhood that led up to her now-famous strike and all the monumental ones that have fueled her revolution since, including being named Time's Most Influential Person of the Year in 2019.”
Molecules: The Elements and Architecture of Everything, by Theodore Gray, $0.99. If you’ve already gotten to know the periodic elements, it is time to step up to learning about molecules. Theodore Gray starts by explaining the basics of bonding and how bond types affect physical structure. The rest of the book is made up of profiles of different compounds, detailing their composition, usage, and history. As in all of Gray’s books, there are copious detailed photo illustrations.
Ripped From the Headlines: The Shocking True Stories Behind the Movies’ Most Memorable Crimes, by Harold Schechter, $1.99. So many of the plotlines from famous movies have been taken from true-life events. Historian Harold Schechter reveals all the fascinating stories behind films like Scream, Psycho, and Dirty Harry. This is a fun exploration for true crime fans and movie buffs alike!
Rise of the Jumbies, by Tracey Baptiste, $1.99. I’ve featured The Jumbies in the Kindle deals before. If your kids enjoy Rick Riordan books, they will get excited about this series based on Carribbean folklore. In the second book, Corinne must venture into to sea to request the help of the powerful jumbie Mama D’Leau. Mama D’Leau’s price for help is a powerful object, and Corinne and her friends must set off on a dangerous quest to retrieve it.
Tasting the World: One Country at a Time, by Nicole O’Donnell, $2.99. This book is so cool! O’Donnell has collected recipes from more than 200 countries. I wish there were pictures, but I do appreciate her ratings system for ease of preparation, availability of ingredients, and degree of divergence from American flavor profiles. Pair this book with your geography lessons for a delicious enrichment.
Recipes from the World of Tolkein: Inspired by the Legends, by Robert Tuesley Anderson, $1.99. Supplement your reading to The Lord of the Rings with some “authentic” recipes! This small volume has many recipes (Brandywine Fish Pie, Beorn’s Twice-Baked Cakes) and beautiful watercolor illustrations. Essays about the importance of food in Middle Earth make for delicious reading.
The Language of Spells, by Garret Weyr, $1.99. Amy liked this book, but warns that it is SAD. It’s a metaphor of the Holocaust through dragon-based fantasy. Here’s a bit of her review: “A lonely Viennese girl teams up with a dragon to solve the biggest mystery of World War II and figure out what happened to all the dragons. You’re plunged into an alternate magical world, where cats can run government agencies and dragons can spend decades trapped inside a teapot, and it’s a thrilling plunge. It’s alternate history! And magic! And lonely girls finding their people (or, you know, dragons) for the first time.”
The Classical Music Book, by DK Publishing, $1.99. This book is overflowing with music history information. Inside, you’ll find details about famous (and less famous) composers, instruments, musical styles, and much much more.
Nicola and the Viscount, by Meg Cabot, $1.99. Meg Cabot, who you may know from The Princess Diaries, is back with a historical YA romance. Here’s the publisher’s description: “Nicola Sparks, sixteen and an orphan, is ready to dive headlong into her first glittering London society season. She's also ready to dive headlong into the arms of handsome and debonair Lord Sebastian Bartholomew. Nicola's dream is a proposal from the viscount—a dream she's about to realize at last! So naturally, Nathaniel Sheridan's insinuations about her fiancé's flawed character annoy her mightily. But when Nicola's natural curiosity gets the best of her, she begins to piece together a few things for herself. To her great surprise, Nicola realizes she's had the wrong viscount all along . . . but is it too late to make things right?”
Her Right Foot, by Dave Eggers, $2.99. This beautiful picture book takes a look at the history of the Statue of Liberty. More than that, Eggers uses the statue to address the inherent freedoms that form the basis of American culture and government. Shawn Harris’s mixed-media illustrations are simple but visually interesting.
City Signs, by Zoran Milich, $3.99. Help your child get to know the words they might find around a city! The only text in this book is found on the signs themselves, but flipping through the photos is an excellent starting point for conversations about all the workers, transportation, and businesses you can find in an urban environment.
DK Readers: Homes Around the World, by Max Moore, $2.99. This level 1 reader will takes kids around the world to visit houses on stilts, in caves, and high up in trees. As always, DK’s gorgeous photo illustrations bring each setting to life.
The Sun is a Compass: My 4,000-Mile Journey Into the Alaskan Wilds, by Caroline Van Hemert, $4.49. Caroline Van Hemert is an ornithologist who was feeling frustrated with how much time she was spending in the lab. Determined to get back in touch with nature, she decided to take a massive trip, by boat and on foot, through the wilderness of Alaska. She approaches her journey with an adventurer’s spirit and a biologist’s eye for details in the world around her.
Science in Seconds: 200 Key Concepts Explained in an Instant, by Hazel Muir, $4.99. Looking for a quick explainer on, well, just about any major science concept? This book has got you covered. Muir has collected diagrams and short descriptions of black holes, gravity, surface tension, and dozens more topics.
Science Wide Open: Women in Physics, by Mary Wissinger, $2.99. I’m really impressed with this picture book. A curious girl asks questions about the world (e.g., “Why do things fall down?”), and the book answers each question with factual information about science and the women who contributed to each discovery. If you like this one, you might consider the other books in the series!
What If You Had Animal Feet? by Sandra Markle, $2.99. How would your life be different if you had animal feet? Would you climb walls? Balance on tiny ledges? The books in this series are full of fascinating facts about the animal kingdom, but what really sets them apart are the weird and wonderful illustrations imagining kids with animal features.
Tomorrow Most Likely, by Dave Eggers, $1.99. It may be time for bed, but one little boy’s thoughts are all about what the next day will bring. Follow his trains of thought about the sights, sounds, and smells he may discover when he wakes up. This simple, hopeful book is perfect for bedtime.
Rain Brings Frogs: A Little Book of Hope, by Maryann Cocca-Leffler, $2.99. Nate is a kid who sees things in his own special way. When faced with a setback or shortage, Nate finds something to be proud or hopeful about. The illustrations are adorable, and the message of simple gratitude is useful.
The OK Book, by Amy Krouse Rosenthal, $2.99. Amy Krouse Rosenthal is one of my absolute favorite children’s authors. Her books are full of wit and warmth, and The OK Book is no exception. OK is a character (created by the letters O and K turn on their side) who likes to try a lot of things, even things that don’t come naturally. OK assures readers that it’s good to be OK at lots of things, and that trying things is how you discover what will make you great.
Binti: The Complete Trilogy, by Nnedi Okorafor, $4.99. This sci-fi novella collection 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 collects all three Binti novellas, following Binti from her first voyage to university through Binti’s unique path to bringing peace to ancient enemies. I absolutely tore through these books, and I’m delighted that they are all packaged together.
Sleeping Giants, by Sylvain Neuvel, $3.99. I love a good epistolary novel. It’s fascinating to watch a plot come together from a collection of documents. Sleeping Giants is the first in a series about the discovery of an enormous metal hand buried underground. Where did it come from? What does it mean?
My Alien Parents, by R.L. Stine, $3.99. If you were born within 10 years of me, the name R.L. Stine probably sends a little shiver down your spine. He has been writing creepy books for kids and teens for decades. Introduce the next generation to the thrills and chills with this short, fun story about a kid who is convinced his parents are secretly aliens.
Asian-Americans Who Inspire Us, by Analiza Quiroz Wolf, $2.99. This picture book profiles 16 people who have done tremendous things in a wide variety of fields (sports, politics, activism, music). The illustrations really set this book apart. Unlike many biography collections, each person has several images accompanying the text.
Rags and Bones: New Twists on Timeless Tales, edited by Melissa Marr and Tim Pratt, $1.99. This fascinating short story collection reimagines classic stories in new genres. Big names in YA literature (e.g., Neil Gaiman, Garth Nix) have contributed stories to the collection. Some of the stories that provide original inspiration are obscure but worthy of exploration in their own right. Use this collection as a springboard for further literary explrations!
What Can I Be? STEM Careers from A to Z, by Tiffani Teachey, $2.99. This short and sweet book highlights a wide variety of STEM careers. There is not a lot of detail about each field, but this would make an excellent jumping off point for further research. I particularly appreciate the ethnic and gender diversity in the illustrations. Every kid will find someone who looks like them within the pages.
Let’s Meet a Construction Worker, by Bridget Heos, $4.99. This is only one in a series of short books introducing community helpers of all sorts. Fun cartoon-style illustrations accompany interesting information about construction machinery, safety procedures, and more.
Kindle Deals for August 17, 2021
Books about 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.)
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Texts from Jane Eyre: And Other Conversations with Your Favorite Literary Characters, by Mallory Ortberg, $2.99. This fun, short book is a huge hit at HSL. It’s a collection of conversations with fictional characters, from Mr. Rochester to Daisy Buchanan. The conversations are clever, funny, and intelligent. I can’t think of another book that does a better job of encouraging readers to dig deep into the classics. If you’re well-read, you’ll get all the jokes. The conversation with Dido is one of my favorites.
Dear Fahrenheit 451: Love and Heartbreak in the Stacks — A Librarian's Love Letters and Breakup Notes to the Books in Her Life, by Annie Spence, $2.99. Do we need another book about books? I’m going to go with yes. Annie Spence reads a lot, loves her books, and has interested takes on new and old classics. The first part of the book is hilarious letters to books of many genres and age ranges. Some are love letters, some are angry notes. The second second is full of essays about the joys and sorrows of reading and book lists in various categories.
Booked: A Traveler’s Guide to Literary Locations Around the World, by Richard Kreitner, $3.99. If you’ve ever wanted to visit the setting of your favorite book, you will want to pick up this travel guide. Kreitner has selected places made famous in children’s and adult literature, both in the US and abroad. He includes short passages from the books in question, along with a discussion of the significance of each place and practical tips for visiting.
Jane Austen Cover to Cover: 200 Years of Classic Covers, by Margaret C. Sullivan, $3.99. Ok, I’ll admit it — this is a VERY specific book, but I know some of you will appreciate it. Sullivan has collected images of dozens of physical copies of Austen’s works. She provides an excellent chronology of their publication and reissue. If you are fascinated by book-binding, cover art, or Austen, you will love this book.
STILL ON SALE
Howl’s Moving Castle, by Diana Wynne Jones, $3.50. Amy used this book and others to create a massive Studio Ghibli unit study. Here is her review: “Sometimes a curse can be just what you needed, as Sophie discovers in this delightful fantasy about a hat maker's daughter who's cursed to premature old age by the Witch of the Waste. To break the curse, Sophie will need to team up with the mysterious wizard Howl, who happens to be stuck under a curse of his own—but first, she'll have to get to his castle, which has a habit of wandering around. I love this as a readaloud, on its own, or (of course) a companion piece to the equally wonderful (though often quite different) movie adaptation.”
The Bell Jar, by Sylvia Plath, $3.50. From our What You Should Read in High School list: “Perhaps no author better captures the downward spiral of depression into madness than Plath does in this semi-autobiographical novel.”
The Chronicles of Narnia: Complete 7-Book Collection, by C.S. Lewis, $4.99. Wow, this is a great deal! You can get the entire series for the price of one book. This engrossing fantasy series is great for discussion of allegory or the hero’s journey. Once you’re done, check out our list of books for people who liked the Narnia books!
To Kill a Mockingbird, by Harper Lee, $4.99. From our What You Should Read in Middle School list: “For many tweens, Harper Lee’s American classic is the first novel that really makes them sit up and pay attention to what literature can do. Scout, Boo Radley, and Atticus Finch are characters who stay with you.”
The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind, by William Kamkwamba and Bryan Mealer, $2.99. This inspirational book tells the story of Kamkwamba, who was determined to bring electricity via wind power to his village in Malawi. Armed with a few spare parts and outdated textbooks, he figured out how to use the wind to bring electricity and water to his small village. This book is a tribute to the power of self-taught knowledge and ingenuity.
Neither Snow Nor Rain: A History of the United State Postal System, by Devin Leonard, $1.99. The National Postal Museum is a hidden gem of the Smithsonian Institution. The history of the postal system includes heists, white-knuckle flying adventures, even a very special dog! This book collects those stories and many more.
Stinkiest! 20 Smelly Animals, by Steve Jenkins, $3.99. Can you name 20 smelly animals? I’m not sure I could without reading this fun picture book. There’s a skunk on the cover, but Jenkins introduces readers to opossoms, hoopoes, millipedes, and lots of other big and little stinkers. If your kids are into gross facts (and who isn’t?), they will have a great time with this book.
Seeing Science: An Illustrated Guide to the Wonders of the Universe, by Iris Gottlieb, $2.99. This book is really cool. Gottlieb is an illustrator who is fascinated by the natural world. She brings her unique blend of cartoon and realism to topics in biology, earth science, and physics. The result is a charming and and detailed look at many interesting aspects of science. Visual learners and science fans will love this. The topics range from basic (how we know something is alive) to theoretical and complex (quantum superposition).
Insect Superpowers: 18 Powerful Bugs that Smash, Zap, Hypnotize, Sting, and Devour!, by Kate Messner and Jillian Nickell, $1.99. Move over, Ant-Man! These real insects are ready for action! Messner’s detailed bug facts pair really well with Nickell’s comics-style drawings. Future entomologists will love this middle-grade nonfiction book.
Art Before Breakfast: A Zillion Ways to be More Creative No Matter How Busy You Are, by Danny Gregory, $2.99. My daughter loves doing art and fills lots of her spare time making things. I’ve never considered myself an artist and struggle to find time to develop my skills. This book is a great place to start. Danny Gregory has created short, fun activities that take 10 minutes or less. They will encourage you to make art a regular part of your life. This book is a great way to add some art education to your homeschool, or to carve out a bit of time for your own creativity.
How Art Can Make You Happy, by Bridget Watson Payne, $1.99. A lot of homeschoolers I know have trouble working art into their education plans. This little book can help to bring some fresh ideas to your school year! With a focus on finding joy in experiencing and making art, this collection of tips, quotes, and pep talks is useful and inspiring.
Grammar Girl’s 101 Words to Sound Smart, by Mignon Fogarty, $3.99. I really like Mignon Fogarty’s grammar guides. She is thorough but fun and quippy. This short book is a collection of interesting words (e.g., diaphanous and jejune) that are often thrown around by smart people. Each word gets a paragraph or two explaining what it means and one or more quotations offering examples of how to use it. You’ll find the book useful for beefing up SAT vocabulary and adding sophistication to high school writing.
The Emotion Thesaurus: A Writer’s Guide to Character Expression, by Angela Ackerman and Becca Puglisi, $1.49. As a word nerd, I find this book so cool! The authors cover more than 100 different emotional states and offer ideas for what it might look like if a character was experiencing them, or if they were trying to cover them up. This goes well beyond happy or angry; sections include horror, insecurity, and envy.
How to Write a Story, by Kate Messner, $1.99. I love this picture book! It’s a step-by-step guide to writing a story, from brainstorming an idea to putting a polished version down on paper. It’s definitely educational, but not the least bit boring. The illustrations follow a girl as she creates her own very exciting story involving dragons and sea monsters.
The Princess Will Save You, by Sarah Henning, $2.99. This action-packed YA novel has some definite Princess Bride vibes, but with a fierce twist. When Princess Amarande’s father dies, the ruler of a neighboring kingdom tries to force her into marriage by kidnapping her beloved. But Amarande is a warrior and is not going to go without a fight. The result is lots of swashbuckling, a bit of romance, betrayal, and bravery.
The Star-Touched Queen, by Roshani Chokshi, $2.99. This YA fantasy novel got a lot of buzz a few years ago. Here’s the publisher’s description: “Maya is cursed. With a horoscope that promises a marriage of Death and Destruction, she has earned only the scorn and fear of her father's kingdom. Content to follow more scholarly pursuits, her whole world is torn apart when her father, the Raja, arranges a wedding of political convenience to quell outside rebellions. Soon Maya becomes the queen of Akaran and wife of Amar. Neither roles are what she expected: As Akaran's queen, she finds her voice and power. As Amar's wife, she finds something else entirely: Compassion. Protection. Desire...
But Akaran has its own secrets -- thousands of locked doors, gardens of glass, and a tree that bears memories instead of fruit. Soon, Maya suspects her life is in danger. Yet who, besides her husband, can she trust? With the fate of the human and Otherworldly realms hanging in the balance, Maya must unravel an ancient mystery that spans reincarnated lives to save those she loves the most… including herself.”
Royal Academy Rebels: Misfits, by Jen Calonita, $0.99. Devin wants to be a veterinarian, but alas, she was born a princess and must attend the Royal Academy. At this prestigious boarding school for future rulers, Devin and her fellow classmates will learn all they need to know, but their headmistress seems very worried about the possibility of an attack. Are they in danger? Note: This book ends in the middle of the action, so be prepared to seek out the second book in the series right away!
The Princess Rules: It’s a Prince Thing, by Philippa Gregory, $0.99. Being a princess comes with a long list of rules and expectations. But in Florizella’s kingdom, princes can do whatever they want. When the stork delivers a baby boy to the palace, Princess Florizella is determined to show her brother all the wonders of the kingdom… and to fight the customs that give boys options and girls restrictions. You may know Philippa Gregory for her richly detailed adult historical fiction. She brings the same skill to this series for early middle-grade readers.
Demigods and Monsters: Your Favorite Authors on Rick Riordan’s Percy Jackson and the Olympians Series, edited by Rick Riordan, $3.99. This is a really fun essay collection about the world of Percy Jackson. 15 (mostly YA and science fiction) authors have come together to write about how to identify a monster when you see one, why humans are drawn to mythology, how Percy’s dyslexia and ADHD shape his character, and many other interesting topics. I know so many kids who have devoured every Riordan book (and all of the books from his publishing imprint); they will love this book!
Nordic Tales: Folktales from Norway, Sweden, Finland, Iceland, and Denmark, by Chronicle Books, $2.99. These folktales are full of trolls, ogres, dragons, and other creatures. A few are familiar, but most are not well know in the U.S. You’ll find tales of trickery, transformation, and travel in this charmingly illustrated collection.
The Brothers Grimm: Illuminated Fairy Tales, by The Brothers Grimm, $1.99. Occasionally you find a book that is uniquely designed for the ebook format. This collection of Grimm Fairy Tales is beautifully illustrated, with subtly animated elements! As you read, you can watch the witch threaten Hansel and Gretel. Each story is illustrated in a different artist, and you could compare and contrast their styles for a fun art lesson.
The Jane Austen Handbook, by Margaret Sullivan, $2.99. Both Austen newbies and proper Janeites will find this delightful little guidebook very useful. A light, tongue-in-cheek tone pairs well with a serious vault of knowledge about Regency England. Not sure whether a Marquis outranks a Duke? Or how rich Mr. Darcy would be in modern terms? This book will help fill in all the gaps.
Who is Greta Thunberg? by Jill Leonard, $4.99. Get to know Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg in this elementary biography. From the publisher: “When she was just fifteen years old, Greta Thunberg knew she wanted to change the world. With a hand-painted sign that read "School strike for the climate" in Swedish, Greta sat alone on the steps of the Swedish parliament to call for stronger action on climate change. Her one-person strike would soon spark a worldwide movement. This exciting story details the defining moments in Greta's childhood that led up to her now-famous strike and all the monumental ones that have fueled her revolution since, including being named Time's Most Influential Person of the Year in 2019.”
Am I Overthinking This? Over-answering Life’s Questions in 101 Charts, by Michelle Rial, $2.99. This is not a particularly serious book, but it is a lot of fun. Rial asks both important and trivial questions, then answers them by way of whimsical charts (e.g., the line chart for “Am I Flossing Enough?” is crafted from dental floss). I like using these charts to discuss ways of organizing information with middle and high school kids.
Molecules: The Elements and Architecture of Everything, by Theodore Gray, $0.99. If you’ve already gotten to know the periodic elements, it is time to step up to learning about molecules. Theodore Gray starts by explaining the basics of bonding and how bond types affect physical structure. The rest of the book is made up of profiles of different compounds, detailing their composition, usage, and history. As in all of Gray’s books, there are copious detailed photo illustrations.
Encyclopedia of Rainbows: Our World Organized by Color, by Julia Seabrook Ream, $1.99. The concept of this book is simple: Ream collects and arranges objects in every color of the rainbow. They are fascinating to look at. The adjacent page provides labels, which would make a good starting point for deep-dive research. You’ll find arrangements of everything from eggs to beans to currency.
Ripped From the Headlines: The Shocking True Stories Behind the Movies’ Most Memorable Crimes, by Harold Schechter, $1.99. So many of the plotlines from famous movies have been taken from true-life events. Historian Harold Schechter reveals all the fascinating stories behind films like Scream, Psycho, and Dirty Harry. This is a fun exploration for true crime fans and movie buffs alike!
Rise of the Jumbies, by Tracey Baptiste, $1.99. I’ve featured The Jumbies in the Kindle deals before. If your kids enjoy Rick Riordan books, they will get excited about this series based on Carribbean folklore. In the second book, Corinne must venture into to sea to request the help of the powerful jumbie Mama D’Leau. Mama D’Leau’s price for help is a powerful object, and Corinne and her friends must set off on a dangerous quest to retrieve it.
Sharp: The Definitive Introduction to Knives, Sharpening, and Cutting Techniques, with Recipes from Great Chefs, by Josh Donald, $1.99. The biggest difference between professional chefs and home cooks is in knife skills. If you are looking to beef up your ability, this book is an excellent primer. Donald walks through selecting knives, sharpening and caring for them, and using them safely and efficiently. Once you have mastered the skills, you can put them to work on the included recipes.
Tasting the World: One Country at a Time, by Nicole O’Donnell, $2.99. This book is so cool! O’Donnell has collected recipes from more than 200 countries. I wish there were pictures, but I do appreciate her ratings system for ease of preparation, availability of ingredients, and degree of divergence from American flavor profiles. Pair this book with your geography lessons for a delicious enrichment.
Recipes from the World of Tolkein: Inspired by the Legends, by Robert Tuesley Anderson, $1.99. Supplement your reading to The Lord of the Rings with some “authentic” recipes! This small volume has many recipes (Brandywine Fish Pie, Beorn’s Twice-Baked Cakes) and beautiful watercolor illustrations. Essays about the importance of food in Middle Earth make for delicious reading.
The Oddmire: Changeling, by William Ritter, $1.99. In this fast-paced middle grade fantasy, twin boys grow up not knowing that one of them is actually a goblin changeling. On their thirteenth birthday, they receive a message calling them to protect the fading magic in their world. Ritter’s writing is witty and engaging, and his world-building skills are impressive.
The Language of Spells, by Garret Weyr, $1.99. Amy liked this book, but warns that it is SAD. It’s a metaphor of the Holocaust through dragon-based fantasy. Here’s a bit of her review: “A lonely Viennese girl teams up with a dragon to solve the biggest mystery of World War II and figure out what happened to all the dragons. You’re plunged into an alternate magical world, where cats can run government agencies and dragons can spend decades trapped inside a teapot, and it’s a thrilling plunge. It’s alternate history! And magic! And lonely girls finding their people (or, you know, dragons) for the first time.”
The Classical Music Book, by DK Publishing, $1.99. This book is overflowing with music history information. Inside, you’ll find details about famous (and less famous) composers, instruments, musical styles, and much much more.
Nicola and the Viscount, by Meg Cabot, $1.99. Meg Cabot, who you may know from The Princess Diaries, is back with a historical YA romance. Here’s the publisher’s description: “Nicola Sparks, sixteen and an orphan, is ready to dive headlong into her first glittering London society season. She's also ready to dive headlong into the arms of handsome and debonair Lord Sebastian Bartholomew. Nicola's dream is a proposal from the viscount—a dream she's about to realize at last! So naturally, Nathaniel Sheridan's insinuations about her fiancé's flawed character annoy her mightily. But when Nicola's natural curiosity gets the best of her, she begins to piece together a few things for herself. To her great surprise, Nicola realizes she's had the wrong viscount all along . . . but is it too late to make things right?”
Nobody’s Secret, by Michela MacColl, $0.99. This historical mystery has a surprising heroine — a 15-year-old Emily Dickinson! When Emily encounters a mysterious stranger, she is intrigued and begins a bit of flirtation. When that same stranger turns up dead in her pond, Emily is determined to discover who he was and how he ended up dead.
Her Right Foot, by Dave Eggers, $2.99. This beautiful picture book takes a look at the history of the Statue of Liberty. More than that, Eggers uses the statue to address the inherent freedoms that form the basis of American culture and government. Shawn Harris’s mixed-media illustrations are simple but visually interesting.
City Signs, by Zoran Milich, $3.99. Help your child get to know the words they might find around a city! The only text in this book is found on the signs themselves, but flipping through the photos is an excellent starting point for conversations about all the workers, transportation, and businesses you can find in an urban environment.
DK Readers: Homes Around the World, by Max Moore, $2.99. This level 1 reader will takes kids around the world to visit houses on stilts, in caves, and high up in trees. As always, DK’s gorgeous photo illustrations bring each setting to life.
The Sun is a Compass: My 4,000-Mile Journey Into the Alaskan Wilds, by Caroline Van Hemert, $4.49. Caroline Van Hemert is an ornithologist who was feeling frustrated with how much time she was spending in the lab. Determined to get back in touch with nature, she decided to take a massive trip, by boat and on foot, through the wilderness of Alaska. She approaches her journey with an adventurer’s spirit and a biologist’s eye for details in the world around her.
Science in Seconds: 200 Key Concepts Explained in an Instant, by Hazel Muir, $4.99. Looking for a quick explainer on, well, just about any major science concept? This book has got you covered. Muir has collected diagrams and short descriptions of black holes, gravity, surface tension, and dozens more topics.
Science Wide Open: Women in Physics, by Mary Wissinger, $2.99. I’m really impressed with this picture book. A curious girl asks questions about the world (e.g., “Why do things fall down?”), and the book answers each question with factual information about science and the women who contributed to each discovery. If you like this one, you might consider the other books in the series!
What If You Had Animal Feet? by Sandra Markle, $2.99. How would your life be different if you had animal feet? Would you climb walls? Balance on tiny ledges? The books in this series are full of fascinating facts about the animal kingdom, but what really sets them apart are the weird and wonderful illustrations imagining kids with animal features.
Tomorrow Most Likely, by Dave Eggers, $1.99. It may be time for bed, but one little boy’s thoughts are all about what the next day will bring. Follow his trains of thought about the sights, sounds, and smells he may discover when he wakes up. This simple, hopeful book is perfect for bedtime.
Rain Brings Frogs: A Little Book of Hope, by Maryann Cocca-Leffler, $2.99. Nate is a kid who sees things in his own special way. When faced with a setback or shortage, Nate finds something to be proud or hopeful about. The illustrations are adorable, and the message of simple gratitude is useful.
The OK Book, by Amy Krouse Rosenthal, $2.99. Amy Krouse Rosenthal is one of my absolute favorite children’s authors. Her books are full of wit and warmth, and The OK Book is no exception. OK is a character (created by the letters O and K turn on their side) who likes to try a lot of things, even things that don’t come naturally. OK assures readers that it’s good to be OK at lots of things, and that trying things is how you discover what will make you great.
Binti: The Complete Trilogy, by Nnedi Okorafor, $4.99. This sci-fi novella collection 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 collects all three Binti novellas, following Binti from her first voyage to university through Binti’s unique path to bringing peace to ancient enemies. I absolutely tore through these books, and I’m delighted that they are all packaged together.
Sleeping Giants, by Sylvain Neuvel, $3.99. I love a good epistolary novel. It’s fascinating to watch a plot come together from a collection of documents. Sleeping Giants is the first in a series about the discovery of an enormous metal hand buried underground. Where did it come from? What does it mean?
My Alien Parents, by R.L. Stine, $3.99. If you were born within 10 years of me, the name R.L. Stine probably sends a little shiver down your spine. He has been writing creepy books for kids and teens for decades. Introduce the next generation to the thrills and chills with this short, fun story about a kid who is convinced his parents are secretly aliens.
Asian-Americans Who Inspire Us, by Analiza Quiroz Wolf, $2.99. This picture book profiles 16 people who have done tremendous things in a wide variety of fields (sports, politics, activism, music). The illustrations really set this book apart. Unlike many biography collections, each person has several images accompanying the text.
Rags and Bones: New Twists on Timeless Tales, edited by Melissa Marr and Tim Pratt, $1.99. This fascinating short story collection reimagines classic stories in new genres. Big names in YA literature (e.g., Neil Gaiman, Garth Nix) have contributed stories to the collection. Some of the stories that provide original inspiration are obscure but worthy of exploration in their own right. Use this collection as a springboard for further literary explrations!
What Can I Be? STEM Careers from A to Z, by Tiffani Teachey, $2.99. This short and sweet book highlights a wide variety of STEM careers. There is not a lot of detail about each field, but this would make an excellent jumping off point for further research. I particularly appreciate the ethnic and gender diversity in the illustrations. Every kid will find someone who looks like them within the pages.
Let’s Meet a Construction Worker, by Bridget Heos, $4.99. This is only one in a series of short books introducing community helpers of all sorts. Fun cartoon-style illustrations accompany interesting information about construction machinery, safety procedures, and more.
Kindle Deals for August 16, 2021
Save big on modern literature classics!
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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To Kill a Mockingbird, by Harper Lee, $4.99. From our What You Should Read in Middle School list: “For many tweens, Harper Lee’s American classic is the first novel that really makes them sit up and pay attention to what literature can do. Scout, Boo Radley, and Atticus Finch are characters who stay with you.”
The Chronicles of Narnia: Complete 7-Book Collection, by C.S. Lewis, $4.99. Wow, this is a great deal! You can get the entire series for the price of one book. This engrossing fantasy series is great for discussion of allegory or the hero’s journey. Once you’re done, check out our list of books for people who liked the Narnia books!
The Bell Jar, by Sylvia Plath, $3.50. From our What You Should Read in High School list: “Perhaps no author better captures the downward spiral of depression into madness than Plath does in this semi-autobiographical novel.”
Howl’s Moving Castle, by Diana Wynne Jones, $3.50. Amy used this book and others to create a massive Studio Ghibli unit study. Here is her review: “Sometimes a curse can be just what you needed, as Sophie discovers in this delightful fantasy about a hat maker's daughter who's cursed to premature old age by the Witch of the Waste. To break the curse, Sophie will need to team up with the mysterious wizard Howl, who happens to be stuck under a curse of his own—but first, she'll have to get to his castle, which has a habit of wandering around. I love this as a readaloud, on its own, or (of course) a companion piece to the equally wonderful (though often quite different) movie adaptation.”
STILL ON SALE
The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind, by William Kamkwamba and Bryan Mealer, $2.99. This inspirational book tells the story of Kamkwamba, who was determined to bring electricity via wind power to his village in Malawi. Armed with a few spare parts and outdated textbooks, he figured out how to use the wind to bring electricity and water to his small village. This book is a tribute to the power of self-taught knowledge and ingenuity.
Neither Snow Nor Rain: A History of the United State Postal System, by Devin Leonard, $1.99. The National Postal Museum is a hidden gem of the Smithsonian Institution. The history of the postal system includes heists, white-knuckle flying adventures, even a very special dog! This book collects those stories and many more.
Stinkiest! 20 Smelly Animals, by Steve Jenkins, $3.99. Can you name 20 smelly animals? I’m not sure I could without reading this fun picture book. There’s a skunk on the cover, but Jenkins introduces readers to opossoms, hoopoes, millipedes, and lots of other big and little stinkers. If your kids are into gross facts (and who isn’t?), they will have a great time with this book.
Seeing Science: An Illustrated Guide to the Wonders of the Universe, by Iris Gottlieb, $2.99. This book is really cool. Gottlieb is an illustrator who is fascinated by the natural world. She brings her unique blend of cartoon and realism to topics in biology, earth science, and physics. The result is a charming and and detailed look at many interesting aspects of science. Visual learners and science fans will love this. The topics range from basic (how we know something is alive) to theoretical and complex (quantum superposition).
Insect Superpowers: 18 Powerful Bugs that Smash, Zap, Hypnotize, Sting, and Devour!, by Kate Messner and Jillian Nickell, $1.99. Move over, Ant-Man! These real insects are ready for action! Messner’s detailed bug facts pair really well with Nickell’s comics-style drawings. Future entomologists will love this middle-grade nonfiction book.
Art Before Breakfast: A Zillion Ways to be More Creative No Matter How Busy You Are, by Danny Gregory, $2.99. My daughter loves doing art and fills lots of her spare time making things. I’ve never considered myself an artist and struggle to find time to develop my skills. This book is a great place to start. Danny Gregory has created short, fun activities that take 10 minutes or less. They will encourage you to make art a regular part of your life. This book is a great way to add some art education to your homeschool, or to carve out a bit of time for your own creativity.
How Art Can Make You Happy, by Bridget Watson Payne, $1.99. A lot of homeschoolers I know have trouble working art into their education plans. This little book can help to bring some fresh ideas to your school year! With a focus on finding joy in experiencing and making art, this collection of tips, quotes, and pep talks is useful and inspiring.
Grammar Girl’s 101 Words to Sound Smart, by Mignon Fogarty, $3.99. I really like Mignon Fogarty’s grammar guides. She is thorough but fun and quippy. This short book is a collection of interesting words (e.g., diaphanous and jejune) that are often thrown around by smart people. Each word gets a paragraph or two explaining what it means and one or more quotations offering examples of how to use it. You’ll find the book useful for beefing up SAT vocabulary and adding sophistication to high school writing.
The Emotion Thesaurus: A Writer’s Guide to Character Expression, by Angela Ackerman and Becca Puglisi, $1.49. As a word nerd, I find this book so cool! The authors cover more than 100 different emotional states and offer ideas for what it might look like if a character was experiencing them, or if they were trying to cover them up. This goes well beyond happy or angry; sections include horror, insecurity, and envy.
How to Write a Story, by Kate Messner, $1.99. I love this picture book! It’s a step-by-step guide to writing a story, from brainstorming an idea to putting a polished version down on paper. It’s definitely educational, but not the least bit boring. The illustrations follow a girl as she creates her own very exciting story involving dragons and sea monsters.
The Princess Will Save You, by Sarah Henning, $2.99. This action-packed YA novel has some definite Princess Bride vibes, but with a fierce twist. When Princess Amarande’s father dies, the ruler of a neighboring kingdom tries to force her into marriage by kidnapping her beloved. But Amarande is a warrior and is not going to go without a fight. The result is lots of swashbuckling, a bit of romance, betrayal, and bravery.
The Star-Touched Queen, by Roshani Chokshi, $2.99. This YA fantasy novel got a lot of buzz a few years ago. Here’s the publisher’s description: “Maya is cursed. With a horoscope that promises a marriage of Death and Destruction, she has earned only the scorn and fear of her father's kingdom. Content to follow more scholarly pursuits, her whole world is torn apart when her father, the Raja, arranges a wedding of political convenience to quell outside rebellions. Soon Maya becomes the queen of Akaran and wife of Amar. Neither roles are what she expected: As Akaran's queen, she finds her voice and power. As Amar's wife, she finds something else entirely: Compassion. Protection. Desire...
But Akaran has its own secrets -- thousands of locked doors, gardens of glass, and a tree that bears memories instead of fruit. Soon, Maya suspects her life is in danger. Yet who, besides her husband, can she trust? With the fate of the human and Otherworldly realms hanging in the balance, Maya must unravel an ancient mystery that spans reincarnated lives to save those she loves the most… including herself.”
Royal Academy Rebels: Misfits, by Jen Calonita, $0.99. Devin wants to be a veterinarian, but alas, she was born a princess and must attend the Royal Academy. At this prestigious boarding school for future rulers, Devin and her fellow classmates will learn all they need to know, but their headmistress seems very worried about the possibility of an attack. Are they in danger? Note: This book ends in the middle of the action, so be prepared to seek out the second book in the series right away!
The Princess Rules: It’s a Prince Thing, by Philippa Gregory, $0.99. Being a princess comes with a long list of rules and expectations. But in Florizella’s kingdom, princes can do whatever they want. When the stork delivers a baby boy to the palace, Princess Florizella is determined to show her brother all the wonders of the kingdom… and to fight the customs that give boys options and girls restrictions. You may know Philippa Gregory for her richly detailed adult historical fiction. She brings the same skill to this series for early middle-grade readers.
Demigods and Monsters: Your Favorite Authors on Rick Riordan’s Percy Jackson and the Olympians Series, edited by Rick Riordan, $3.99. This is a really fun essay collection about the world of Percy Jackson. 15 (mostly YA and science fiction) authors have come together to write about how to identify a monster when you see one, why humans are drawn to mythology, how Percy’s dyslexia and ADHD shape his character, and many other interesting topics. I know so many kids who have devoured every Riordan book (and all of the books from his publishing imprint); they will love this book!
Nordic Tales: Folktales from Norway, Sweden, Finland, Iceland, and Denmark, by Chronicle Books, $2.99. These folktales are full of trolls, ogres, dragons, and other creatures. A few are familiar, but most are not well know in the U.S. You’ll find tales of trickery, transformation, and travel in this charmingly illustrated collection.
The Brothers Grimm: Illuminated Fairy Tales, by The Brothers Grimm, $1.99. Occasionally you find a book that is uniquely designed for the ebook format. This collection of Grimm Fairy Tales is beautifully illustrated, with subtly animated elements! As you read, you can watch the witch threaten Hansel and Gretel. Each story is illustrated in a different artist, and you could compare and contrast their styles for a fun art lesson.
The Jane Austen Handbook, by Margaret Sullivan, $2.99. Both Austen newbies and proper Janeites will find this delightful little guidebook very useful. A light, tongue-in-cheek tone pairs well with a serious vault of knowledge about Regency England. Not sure whether a Marquis outranks a Duke? Or how rich Mr. Darcy would be in modern terms? This book will help fill in all the gaps.
Who is Greta Thunberg? by Jill Leonard, $4.99. Get to know Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg in this elementary biography. From the publisher: “When she was just fifteen years old, Greta Thunberg knew she wanted to change the world. With a hand-painted sign that read "School strike for the climate" in Swedish, Greta sat alone on the steps of the Swedish parliament to call for stronger action on climate change. Her one-person strike would soon spark a worldwide movement. This exciting story details the defining moments in Greta's childhood that led up to her now-famous strike and all the monumental ones that have fueled her revolution since, including being named Time's Most Influential Person of the Year in 2019.”
Am I Overthinking This? Over-answering Life’s Questions in 101 Charts, by Michelle Rial, $2.99. This is not a particularly serious book, but it is a lot of fun. Rial asks both important and trivial questions, then answers them by way of whimsical charts (e.g., the line chart for “Am I Flossing Enough?” is crafted from dental floss). I like using these charts to discuss ways of organizing information with middle and high school kids.
Molecules: The Elements and Architecture of Everything, by Theodore Gray, $0.99. If you’ve already gotten to know the periodic elements, it is time to step up to learning about molecules. Theodore Gray starts by explaining the basics of bonding and how bond types affect physical structure. The rest of the book is made up of profiles of different compounds, detailing their composition, usage, and history. As in all of Gray’s books, there are copious detailed photo illustrations.
Encyclopedia of Rainbows: Our World Organized by Color, by Julia Seabrook Ream, $1.99. The concept of this book is simple: Ream collects and arranges objects in every color of the rainbow. They are fascinating to look at. The adjacent page provides labels, which would make a good starting point for deep-dive research. You’ll find arrangements of everything from eggs to beans to currency.
Ripped From the Headlines: The Shocking True Stories Behind the Movies’ Most Memorable Crimes, by Harold Schechter, $1.99. So many of the plotlines from famous movies have been taken from true-life events. Historian Harold Schechter reveals all the fascinating stories behind films like Scream, Psycho, and Dirty Harry. This is a fun exploration for true crime fans and movie buffs alike!
Rise of the Jumbies, by Tracey Baptiste, $1.99. I’ve featured The Jumbies in the Kindle deals before. If your kids enjoy Rick Riordan books, they will get excited about this series based on Carribbean folklore. In the second book, Corinne must venture into to sea to request the help of the powerful jumbie Mama D’Leau. Mama D’Leau’s price for help is a powerful object, and Corinne and her friends must set off on a dangerous quest to retrieve it.
Sharp: The Definitive Introduction to Knives, Sharpening, and Cutting Techniques, with Recipes from Great Chefs, by Josh Donald, $1.99. The biggest difference between professional chefs and home cooks is in knife skills. If you are looking to beef up your ability, this book is an excellent primer. Donald walks through selecting knives, sharpening and caring for them, and using them safely and efficiently. Once you have mastered the skills, you can put them to work on the included recipes.
Tasting the World: One Country at a Time, by Nicole O’Donnell, $2.99. This book is so cool! O’Donnell has collected recipes from more than 200 countries. I wish there were pictures, but I do appreciate her ratings system for ease of preparation, availability of ingredients, and degree of divergence from American flavor profiles. Pair this book with your geography lessons for a delicious enrichment.
Recipes from the World of Tolkein: Inspired by the Legends, by Robert Tuesley Anderson, $1.99. Supplement your reading to The Lord of the Rings with some “authentic” recipes! This small volume has many recipes (Brandywine Fish Pie, Beorn’s Twice-Baked Cakes) and beautiful watercolor illustrations. Essays about the importance of food in Middle Earth make for delicious reading.
The Oddmire: Changeling, by William Ritter, $1.99. In this fast-paced middle grade fantasy, twin boys grow up not knowing that one of them is actually a goblin changeling. On their thirteenth birthday, they receive a message calling them to protect the fading magic in their world. Ritter’s writing is witty and engaging, and his world-building skills are impressive.
The Language of Spells, by Garret Weyr, $1.99. Amy liked this book, but warns that it is SAD. It’s a metaphor of the Holocaust through dragon-based fantasy. Here’s a bit of her review: “A lonely Viennese girl teams up with a dragon to solve the biggest mystery of World War II and figure out what happened to all the dragons. You’re plunged into an alternate magical world, where cats can run government agencies and dragons can spend decades trapped inside a teapot, and it’s a thrilling plunge. It’s alternate history! And magic! And lonely girls finding their people (or, you know, dragons) for the first time.”
The Classical Music Book, by DK Publishing, $1.99. This book is overflowing with music history information. Inside, you’ll find details about famous (and less famous) composers, instruments, musical styles, and much much more.
Nicola and the Viscount, by Meg Cabot, $1.99. Meg Cabot, who you may know from The Princess Diaries, is back with a historical YA romance. Here’s the publisher’s description: “Nicola Sparks, sixteen and an orphan, is ready to dive headlong into her first glittering London society season. She's also ready to dive headlong into the arms of handsome and debonair Lord Sebastian Bartholomew. Nicola's dream is a proposal from the viscount—a dream she's about to realize at last! So naturally, Nathaniel Sheridan's insinuations about her fiancé's flawed character annoy her mightily. But when Nicola's natural curiosity gets the best of her, she begins to piece together a few things for herself. To her great surprise, Nicola realizes she's had the wrong viscount all along . . . but is it too late to make things right?”
Nobody’s Secret, by Michela MacColl, $0.99. This historical mystery has a surprising heroine — a 15-year-old Emily Dickinson! When Emily encounters a mysterious stranger, she is intrigued and begins a bit of flirtation. When that same stranger turns up dead in her pond, Emily is determined to discover who he was and how he ended up dead.
Her Right Foot, by Dave Eggers, $2.99. This beautiful picture book takes a look at the history of the Statue of Liberty. More than that, Eggers uses the statue to address the inherent freedoms that form the basis of American culture and government. Shawn Harris’s mixed-media illustrations are simple but visually interesting.
City Signs, by Zoran Milich, $3.99. Help your child get to know the words they might find around a city! The only text in this book is found on the signs themselves, but flipping through the photos is an excellent starting point for conversations about all the workers, transportation, and businesses you can find in an urban environment.
DK Readers: Homes Around the World, by Max Moore, $2.99. This level 1 reader will takes kids around the world to visit houses on stilts, in caves, and high up in trees. As always, DK’s gorgeous photo illustrations bring each setting to life.
The Sun is a Compass: My 4,000-Mile Journey Into the Alaskan Wilds, by Caroline Van Hemert, $4.49. Caroline Van Hemert is an ornithologist who was feeling frustrated with how much time she was spending in the lab. Determined to get back in touch with nature, she decided to take a massive trip, by boat and on foot, through the wilderness of Alaska. She approaches her journey with an adventurer’s spirit and a biologist’s eye for details in the world around her.
Science in Seconds: 200 Key Concepts Explained in an Instant, by Hazel Muir, $4.99. Looking for a quick explainer on, well, just about any major science concept? This book has got you covered. Muir has collected diagrams and short descriptions of black holes, gravity, surface tension, and dozens more topics.
Science Wide Open: Women in Physics, by Mary Wissinger, $2.99. I’m really impressed with this picture book. A curious girl asks questions about the world (e.g., “Why do things fall down?”), and the book answers each question with factual information about science and the women who contributed to each discovery. If you like this one, you might consider the other books in the series!
What If You Had Animal Feet? by Sandra Markle, $2.99. How would your life be different if you had animal feet? Would you climb walls? Balance on tiny ledges? The books in this series are full of fascinating facts about the animal kingdom, but what really sets them apart are the weird and wonderful illustrations imagining kids with animal features.
Tomorrow Most Likely, by Dave Eggers, $1.99. It may be time for bed, but one little boy’s thoughts are all about what the next day will bring. Follow his trains of thought about the sights, sounds, and smells he may discover when he wakes up. This simple, hopeful book is perfect for bedtime.
Rain Brings Frogs: A Little Book of Hope, by Maryann Cocca-Leffler, $2.99. Nate is a kid who sees things in his own special way. When faced with a setback or shortage, Nate finds something to be proud or hopeful about. The illustrations are adorable, and the message of simple gratitude is useful.
The OK Book, by Amy Krouse Rosenthal, $2.99. Amy Krouse Rosenthal is one of my absolute favorite children’s authors. Her books are full of wit and warmth, and The OK Book is no exception. OK is a character (created by the letters O and K turn on their side) who likes to try a lot of things, even things that don’t come naturally. OK assures readers that it’s good to be OK at lots of things, and that trying things is how you discover what will make you great.
Binti: The Complete Trilogy, by Nnedi Okorafor, $4.99. This sci-fi novella collection 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 collects all three Binti novellas, following Binti from her first voyage to university through Binti’s unique path to bringing peace to ancient enemies. I absolutely tore through these books, and I’m delighted that they are all packaged together.
Sleeping Giants, by Sylvain Neuvel, $3.99. I love a good epistolary novel. It’s fascinating to watch a plot come together from a collection of documents. Sleeping Giants is the first in a series about the discovery of an enormous metal hand buried underground. Where did it come from? What does it mean?
My Alien Parents, by R.L. Stine, $3.99. If you were born within 10 years of me, the name R.L. Stine probably sends a little shiver down your spine. He has been writing creepy books for kids and teens for decades. Introduce the next generation to the thrills and chills with this short, fun story about a kid who is convinced his parents are secretly aliens.
Asian-Americans Who Inspire Us, by Analiza Quiroz Wolf, $2.99. This picture book profiles 16 people who have done tremendous things in a wide variety of fields (sports, politics, activism, music). The illustrations really set this book apart. Unlike many biography collections, each person has several images accompanying the text.
Rags and Bones: New Twists on Timeless Tales, edited by Melissa Marr and Tim Pratt, $1.99. This fascinating short story collection reimagines classic stories in new genres. Big names in YA literature (e.g., Neil Gaiman, Garth Nix) have contributed stories to the collection. Some of the stories that provide original inspiration are obscure but worthy of exploration in their own right. Use this collection as a springboard for further literary explrations!
What Can I Be? STEM Careers from A to Z, by Tiffani Teachey, $2.99. This short and sweet book highlights a wide variety of STEM careers. There is not a lot of detail about each field, but this would make an excellent jumping off point for further research. I particularly appreciate the ethnic and gender diversity in the illustrations. Every kid will find someone who looks like them within the pages.
Let’s Meet a Construction Worker, by Bridget Heos, $4.99. This is only one in a series of short books introducing community helpers of all sorts. Fun cartoon-style illustrations accompany interesting information about construction machinery, safety procedures, and more.