To honor their persistence, bravery, and compassion, we have gathered a list of titles which highlight our history’s female legacy. Please feel free to share these stories with family and friends and any woman, young or old, who has inspired you to reach higher, go farther, and dream bigger.

Away with Words
The Daring Story of Isabella Bird
Written by Lori Mortensen
Illustrated by Kristy Caldwell

“Isabella Bird was like a wild vine stuck in a too-small pot. She needed more room. She had to get out. She had to explore.” This dashing picture book biography about the first female member of the Royal Geographical Society takes readers around the world with a daring nineteenth-century female explorer and bestselling author. Author Lori Mortensen even included quotes from Bird’s books sprinkled throughout the story! Check out the book trailer. For ideas of how to use the book in the classroom, check out the teacher’s guide.

Dangerous Jane
The Life and Times of Jane Addams, Crusader for Peace
Written by Suzanne Slade
Illustrated by Alice Ratterree

Eleanor’s Story
An American Girl in Hitler’s Germany
Written by Eleanor Ramrath Garner

Eleanor’s Story is the dramatic memoir of Eleanor Ramrath Garner’s youth, growing up as an American caught in World War II Berlin. It’s a story of trying to maintain stability, hope, and identity in a world of terror and contrasts. Throughout her work, Garner puts a very human face on the horrors of war and helps us understand that each casualty of war is a person, not a number. Read an excerpt here. Also check out the author Q&A and the discussion guide for more information.

It Can’t Be Done, Nellie Bly!
A Reporter’s Race Around the World
Written by Nancy Butcher
Illustrated by Jen Singh

This book tells the true story of Nellie Bly, a courageous newspaper reporter for the New York World, who decided to circle the globe in 1889 in less than eighty days. Equipped only with one sturdy travel dress and a small satchel, she has all kinds of incredible experiences―from surviving a monsoon at sea to visiting a leper colony in China. Bly’s indomitable spirit and love of adventure will inspire a new generation of young readers to defy the odds and attempt to do what many believe cannot be done.

Mind Your Manners, Alice Roosevelt!
Written by Leslie Kimmelman
Illustrated by Adam Gustavson

Alice Roosevelt was an independent, outspoken young woman during a time when women were supposed to be quiet and reserved. She flew in the face of convention at every turn, from riding a pig and keeping a pet snake to speeding through town in a new car. Her free-spirited antics, and rapier wit, drew the eyes and ears of the nation, inspiring many of its citizens to question their own definitions of womanhood.

Ladies First
Women Athletes Who Made a Difference
Written by Ken Rappoport

Margaret Mitchell & John Marsh
The Love Story Behind Gone With the Wind
by Marianne Walker

Based on almost 200 previously unpublished letters and extensive interviews with their closest associates, Walker’s biography of Margaret Mitchell and her husband, John Marsh, offers a new look into a devoted marriage and fascinating partnership that ultimately created a Pulitzer Prize-winning novel. From years of meticulous research, Marianne Walker details the intimate and moving love story between a husband and wife, and between a writer and her editor. Read an excerpt here.

First Published African American Poet (1798-1884)

“A plausible, powerful vision of ingenuity and daring in action.” ―Publishers Weekly

The son of an enslaved blacksmith learns that his father is using the rhythm of his hammering to communicate with travelers on the Underground Railroad. When Pa falls ill, it is up to him to help others along the journey―and also lead his family’s escape. This powerful story of rhythm and craft in nineteenth century America features beautiful oil paintings and back matter that includes more information about the Underground Railroad.

Father of the Underground Railroad (1821-1902)

★ “An illuminating picture book biography of a lesser-known hero.” —Publishers Weekly, STARRED REVIEW

The son of former slaves, William Still was motivated by his own family’s experience to collect the stories of thousands of other freedom seekers. As a result, he was able to reunite other families and build a remarkable source of information. Award-winning author-illustrator Don Tate brings to life the incredible true story of William Still. Tate’s powerful words and artwork are sure to inspire young readers in this first-ever picture book biography of the Father of the Underground Railroad.

Journalist and Civil Rights Activist (1862-1931)

★ “Alcorn’s striking, symbol-infused hand-colored prints on creamy vellum get star billing… Author notes, a timeline and more enhance this age-appropriate introduction to difficult issues and the woman who educated the world about them.” ―Publishers Weekly, STARRED REVIEW

Blessed with a strong will, an eager mind, and a deep belief in America’s promise of “freedom and justice for all,” Ida B. Wells held her family together, defied society’s conventions, and spoke against injustice. But how could one headstrong young woman help free America from the looming “shadow of lawlessness”? Author Philip Dray tells the inspirational story of Ida B. Wells and her lifelong commitment to end injustice. Award-winning illustrator Stephen Alcorn’s remarkable illustrations recreate the tensions that threatened to upend a nation while paying tribute to a courageous American hero.

Stories of the Civil War (1864)

“At the core of this stirring historical novel is the question of what freedom means…The boy’s first-person, present-tense narrative brings close the thrilling horse racing—on the plantation, at the race course, and in the war—and the African American history in all its complexity.” ―Booklist

Twelve-year-old Gabriel loves to help his father care for the thoroughbred racehorses on Master Giles’s farm. But when Gabriel’s father enlists in a Colored Battalion, it is up to Gabriel to protect the horses and keep them safely out of the clutches of Confederate raiders. Alison Hart mines the complex relationships of the Civil War in this gripping work of historical fiction. Young readers will experience the danger and drama of a time when war split the country and human beings were segregated into owner and owned based on the color of their skin.

Father of Black History Month (1875-1950)

“An important and inspiring tale well told.” ―Kirkus Reviews

Carter G. Woodson’s father believed in being an informed citizen, so Carter read the newspaper to him every day. As a teenager, Carter read to other workers in the coal mines and researched and found more information on the subjects that interested him. “My interest in penetrating the past of my people was deepened,” Carter wrote. His journey would take him many more years, traveling around the world and transforming the way people thought about history. This first-ever picture book biography of Carter G. Woodson emphasizes the importance of pursuing curiosity and encouraging a hunger for knowledge of stories and histories that have not been told.

Discovery of the North Pole (1909)

“Henson’s story is dramatic, although the narrative voice is soft as velvet, while Stephen Alcorn’s artwork appears both washed in bitter cold and defrosted by its hand-tinted quality.” ―Kirkus Reviews

Matthew Henson was born just after the Civil War, a time when slavery had been abolished, but few opportunities were available for black people despite Henson’s yearning for adventure. But in 1909, Admiral Robert Peary invited Henson to join an expedition to the North Pole, and on April 1, Peary, Henson, and four Inuit men began the final 133-mile push to the Pole. Award-winning author Deborah Hopkinson pays tribute to a great but under-recognized figure from America’s past in this remarkable story. Excerpts from Henson’s expedition diaries, a time line, and an epilogue place the story in its historical context.

Civil Rights Activists (1939)

“Brings deserved attention to Chapman and underscores the very worthwhile message that one does not need to be a star to make a difference.” ―Kirkus Reviews

On Easter Sunday 1939, thanks to Oscar Chapman, Marian Anderson performed at the foot of the Lincoln Memorial for a crowd of over 75,000 people. Chapman had helped produce a landmark concert that―for at least one evening―bridged the color divide to bring a city and much of the nation together. Author Deborah Hopkinson tells the inspirational story of Oscar Chapman’s lifelong commitment to ending bigotry, and Leonard Jenkins’s remarkable illustrations recreate a bygone era and pay tribute to a magical, little-known moment in modern history. An author’s note provides additional historical context.

Tribute to First Black Player in Major League Baseball (1947)

“An affecting tribute to Robinson, to a dedicated son and to a thoughtful, deep-feeling father. And, of course, to baseball.” ―Publishers Weekly

It is the summer of 1947 and a highly charged baseball season is underway in New York. Jackie Robinson is the new first baseman for the Brooklyn Dodgers―and the first black player in Major League Baseball. A young boy listens eagerly to the Dodgers games on the radio until one day, his father delivers some big news: they are going to Ebbets Field to watch Jackie play! Author Myron Uhlberg and illustrator Colin Bootman offer a nostalgic look back at 1947 and capture the excitement of an entire city as Robinson and the Dodgers won the long-awaited pennant, and brought an entire New York community together for one magical summer.

Civil Rights Activists (1963)

★ “A moving record of young people rising at a pivotal historical moment, based on original interviews and archival research as well as published sources.” ―Kirkus Reviews, STARRED REVIEW

We’ve Got a Job tells the little-known story of the 4,000 Black elementary, middle, and high school students who answered Dr. Martin Luther King’s call to “fill the jails.” Between May 2 and May 11, 1963, these young people voluntarily went to jail, drawing national attention to the cause, helping bring about the repeal of segregation laws, and inspiring thousands of other young people to demand their rights. Combining extensive research and in-depth interviews with protesters, award-winning author Cynthia Levinson recreates the events of the Birmingham Children’s March from a new and very personal perspective. Archival photography and informational sidebars throughout. Backmatter includes an afterword, author’s note, timeline, map, and bibliography.

A Celebration of Black Families (2000’s)

★ “A warm, loving, necessary reminder of the power in families coming together.” —Kirkus Reviews, STARRED REVIEW

Down home is Granny’s house. Down home is where Lil Alan and his parents and sister will gather with great-grandparents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. Down home is where Lil Alan will hear stories of the ancestors and visit the land that has meant so much to all of them. And down home is where all of the children will find their special way to pay tribute to their family history, but what will Lil Alan do? Kelly Starling Lyons’ eloquent text explores the power of history and family traditions, and stunning illustrations by Coretta Scott King Honor- and Caldecott Honor-winner Daniel Minter reveal the motion and connections in a large, multi-generational family.

Away with Words
The Daring Story of Isabella Bird
by Lori Mortensen
illustrated by Kristy Caldwell

“Isabella Bird was like a wild vine stuck in a too-small pot. She needed more room. She had to get out. She had to explore.” But exploring was easier said than done in Victorian England. However, Isabella persisted, and journey by journey, question by question, word by word, Isabella bloomed. This dashing picture book biography about the first female member of the Royal Geographical Society takes readers around the world with a daring nineteenth-century female explorer and author. Kristy Caldwell’s detailed illustrations illuminate Bird’s travels around the world, and Lori Mortensen’s back matter, author’s note, and bibliography will satisfy the curiosity of readers who want to learn more.

Dangerous Jane
The Life and Times of Jane Addams, Crusader for Peace
by Suzanne Slade
illustrated by Alice Ratterree

From the time she was a child, Jane’s heart ached for others. At first the focus of her efforts was on poverty, and lead to the creation of Hull House, the settlement house she built in Chicago. For twenty-five years, she’d helped people from different countries live in peace at Hull House. But when war broke out, Jane decided to take on the world and become a dangerous woman for the sake of peace. Suzanne Slade’s powerful text written in free verse illuminates the life of this inspiring figure while Alice Ratterree’s stunning illustrations bring Jane Addams and her world to life.

Marching with Aunt Susan
by Claire Rudolf Murphy
illustrated by Stacey Schuett

All Bessie wants is to go hiking with her father and brothers. But it’s 1896, and girls don’t get to hike. They can’t vote either, which Bessie discovers when Susan B. Anthony comes to town to help lead the campaign for women’s suffrage. Stirred to action, Bessie joins the movement and discovers that small efforts can result in small changes—and maybe even big ones. Inspired by the diary of the real Bessie Keith Pond, a ten-year-old girl who lived in California during the suffrage campaign, author Claire Rudolf Murphy and illustrator Stacey Schuett offer a thought-provoking introduction to the fight for women’s rights that reminds readers that society cannot evolve unless people—even young people—dare to take a stand.

Mind Your Manners, Alice Roosevelt!
by Leslie Kimmelman
illustrated by Adam Gustavson

The 26th president of the United States was a strong and clever man who could handle almost everything—except his eldest child, Alice. Alice Roosevelt was an independent, outspoken young woman during a time when women were supposed to be conventional and reserved. Whether it was riding a pig, keeping a pet snake, or driving a car—and speeding!—Alice did what she wanted.  Leslie Kimmelman brings readers a factual and affectionate look at the free spirit who caught the attention of a nation, and Adam Gustavson’s illustrations perfectly capture the strong personalities of the story’s characters.

Sweet Land of Liberty
by Deborah Hopkinson
illustrated by Leonard Jenkins

On Easter Sunday 1939, Marian Anderson performed at the foot of the Lincoln Memorial for a crowd of over 75,000 people. The person largely responsible for putting her there was a white man, Oscar Chapman, who had helped produce a landmark concert that―for at least one evening―bridged the color divide to bring a city and much of the nation together. Award-winning author Deborah Hopkinson tells the inspirational story of Oscar Chapman’s lifelong commitment to ending bigotry, and illustrator Leonard Jenkins’s remarkable illustrations recreate a bygone era and pay tribute to remarkable real-life people and a magical moment in modern history.

Thanks to Frances Perkins
Fighter for Workers’ Rights
by Deborah Hopkinson
illustrated by Kristy Caldwell

After Frances Perkins witnessed the Triangle Waist Factory fire in 1911, she was forever changed. Frances decided to work to bring about new laws that would force employers to treat people better and make workplaces safer. When she became Secretary of Labor in Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s administration—the first woman cabinet member—Frances had the opportunity to make real her bold vision of Social Security and a country where no one was left out. Deborah Hopkinson’s energetic text and Kristy Caldwell’s appealing illustrations introduce readers to a fascinating woman who has changed many American lives.

Yours for Justice, Ida B. Wells
The Daring Life of a Crusading Journalist
by Philip Dray
illustrated by Stephen Alcorn

In 1863, when Ida B. Wells was not yet two years old, the Emancipation Proclamation freed her from the bond of slavery. Blessed with a strong will, an eager mind, and a deep belief in America’s promise of “freedom and justice for all,” young Ida held her family together, defied society’s conventions, and used her position as a journalist to speak against injustice. But how could one headstrong young woman help free America from the looming “shadow of lawlessness”? Author Philip Dray tells the inspirational story of Ida B. Wells and her lifelong commitment to end injustice. Award-winning illustrator Stephen Alcorn’s illustrations recreate the tensions that threatened to upend a nation while paying tribute to a courageous American hero.

It Can’t Be Done, Nellie Bly
A Reporter’s Race Around the World
by Nancy Butcher
illustrated by Jen Singh

Nellie Bly was a newspaper reporter for The New York World, but instead of writing about “ladylike” subjects like tea parties and charity balls, Nellie wrote about the social problems of her day, like poor job conditions, dilapidated housing, and dishonest politicians. If someone told her “It can’t be done, Nellie Bly,” she went right ahead and did it anyway. But when Nellie read Jules Verne’s novel, Around the World in Eighty Days, she was inspired to circle the globe even faster herself. Did the plucky young reporter go too far? This delightful true story of a woman with an indomitable spirit will inspire a new generation of courageous young readers―and adventurers.

Monsoon Afternoon (India)
by Kashmira Sheth
illustrated by Yoshiko Jaeggi

It is monsoon season in India, and a young boy and his dadaji (grandfather) are heading out into the rainy weather to sail paper boats and watch the peacocks dance in the rain, just as Dadaji did when he was young. When the two return home, hot tea and a loving family are waiting. This affectionate, sensitive story provides a look into Indian life and the shared moments and memories that bind generations together. The fanciful watercolor illustrations recreate the lush Indian landscape during monsoon season, and capture the bond of love that unites a grandfather and his grandson.

Away with Words: The Daring Story of Isabella Bird (Around the World)
by Lori Mortensen
illustrated by Kristy Caldwell

“Isabella Bird was like a wild vine stuck in a too-small pot,” but exploring was easier said than done in Victorian England. Isabella persisted, and with each journey, she discovered new ways to describe everything around her. Question by question, word by word, Isabella bloomed. First, out in the English countryside. And eventually, around the world, to Africa, Asia, Australia, and more. This dashing picture book biography about the first female member of the Royal Geographical Society takes readers around the world with a daring nineteenth-century female explorer and author.

King of the Tightrope: When the Great Blondin Ruled Niagara (Niagara Falls)
by Donna Janell Bowman
illustrated by Adam Gustavson

At the age of four, Jean-Francois Gravelet walked across his first balance beam. Later, he took to the tightrope, and he climbed toward stardom. As The Great Blondin, his feats became more and more marvelous, but he was bored. That is, until he visited Niagara Falls and imagined doing something that no one else had ever accomplished. It would take courage to cross the falls, but in 1859, Blondin would step out onto the most dangerous tightrope walk he’d ever faced. This detailed picture book biography gives readers a detailed and exciting look into the hard work, determination, and meticulous mathematic and scientific planning it took to cross Niagara Falls on a tightrope.

Keep On!: The Story of Matthew Henson, Co-Discoverer of the North Pole (The North Pole)
by Deborah Hopkinson
illustrated by Stephen Alcorn

Matthew Henson was born just after the Civil War, a time when slavery had been abolished, but few opportunities were available for black people. As a child, Henson exhibited a yearning to explore, but his greatest adventure began in 1909 when Admiral Robert Peary invited him to join an expedition to the North Pole. After many storms, injuries, and unimaginable cold, on April 1, Peary, Henson, and four Inuit men began the final 133-mile push to the Pole. This stunning picture book biography pays tribute to a great but under-recognized figure from America’s past.

I Am Tama, Lucky Cat (Japan)
by Wendy Henrichs
illustrated by Yoshiko Jaeggi

Under the shadow of the white-capped mountains of Japan, a kind and gentle monk takes in a white cat with unusual markings and names him Tama. Tama truly earns his nickname―“Lucky Cat,” when during a powerful thunderstorm, he saves a warlord from a large branch crashing to the ground. In gratitude to Tama, the warlord lavishes gifts on the monk’s poor temple. Based on one of the legends of Maneki Neko―“beckoning cat,” this beautiful story of friendship, generosity, and kindness features breathtaking watercolor illustrations.

It Can’t Be Done, Nellie Bly: A Reporter’s Race Around the World (Around the World)
by Nancy Butcher
illustrated by Jen Singh

Nellie Bly was a newspaper reporter for The New York World, but instead of writing about “ladylike” subjects like tea parties and charity balls, she wrote about social problems like poor job conditions, dilapidated housing, and dishonest politicians. If someone told her “It can’t be done, Nellie Bly,” she went right ahead and did it anyway. But when Nellie read Jules Verne’s novel, Around the World in Eighty Days, she was inspired to circle the globe even faster herself. Did the plucky young reporter go too far? This delightful true story of a woman with an indomitable spirit will inspire a new generation of young readers―and adventurers.

Charles Darwin and the Voyage of the Beagle (Around the World)
by Ruth Ashby

In 1831, young adventurer and nature enthusiast Charles Darwin set sail on a remarkable five-year voyage that changed the study of biology forever. This lively account follows the naturalist’s exciting trip around the world as he meets indigenous peoples and carefully collects and catalogs plants, fossils, birds, mammals, and insects. Darwin’s observations of the distribution and diversity of plant and animal life ultimately leads to the development of his theories on evolution. Readers will be inspired by Darwin’s transformation into a remarkable scientist as they read about the revolutionary voyage of the Beagle.

The Cheshire Cheese Cat: A Dickens of a Tale (London)
by Carmen Agra Deedy & Randall Wright
illustrated by Barry Moser

Skilley, an alley cat with an embarrassing secret, longs to escape his street-cat life and trade London’s damp alleyways for the warmth of ye olde Cheshire Cheese Inn. So, he strikes a bargain with an erudite mouse named Pip and begins protecting the mice who live at the inn in exchange for the thing Skilley desires most. But when Skilley and Pip face a crisis of monumental proportions, their new friendship is pushed to its limits. The escalating crisis threatens the peace not only of the Cheshire Cheese Inn but also the British Monarchy! This compelling and playful homage to Charles Dickens features charming characters and important themes of friendship and loyalty.

Truth and Salsa (Mexico)
by Linda Lowery

Almost-thirteen-year-old Hayley Flynn is spending six months with her eccentric grandmother in the rural mountain town of San Miguel while her recently separated parents work things out. For Haley, life in Mexico is surprisingly exciting, but there are also difficult lessons to be learned about poverty and unemployment. And meanwhile, Hayley is on the lookout for la fantasma (the ghost) that is said to haunt her grandma’s house. This affectionate portrait of a small town in Mexico features a warm, humorous story of self-discovery and a relatable protagonist who will have readers captivated on every page.

Lana Lynn is an intrepid sheep. While the other members of her flock are content to nibble grass in the pasture, sip water from the pond, and nap in the meadow, Lana Lynn is looking for adventure!

So one night, when the moon is high and the other sheep are asleep, she finds a disguise and dashes into the wild woods to see what life is like as a wolf. It’s fun to run through the wild woods, stay up very late, and howl at the Moon—but is life with the wolf pack everything it seems?

Rebecca Van Slyke’s charming depiction of experiencing new things reminds readers to be intrepid, but don’t forget it’s okay to be content with your day-t0-day life, too. Talented illustrator Anca Sandu accents the charming story with her humorous illustrations.

Get a peek of life on the wild side with this excerpt, and learn more about the team behind the tale with our author and illustrator Q&As! Then, download the free activity sheets and reader’s theater to continue adventuring with with Lana Lynn.

Storytelling World Resource Award (Honor, Stories for Young Listeners) ―Storytelling World magazine, 2020

Order your copy of Lana Lynn Howls at the Moon today from Amazon, IndieBound, Bookshop.org, or Barnes & Noble!

Martina the beautiful cockroach doesn’t know coffee beans about love and marriage, and that’s where her Cuban family comes in. While some of the Cucarachas offer her gifts to make her more attractive, only Abuela, gives her something really useful: un consejo increíble, some shocking advice. At first, Martina is skeptical of her Abuela’s unorthodox suggestion, but when all her suitors fail the Coffee Test, she wonders if a little green cockroach can ever find true love. Soon, only the gardener Pérez, a tiny brown mouse, is left. But what will happen when Martina offers him café cubano?

Carmen Agra Deedy’s inventive Cuban folktale and Michael Austin’s beautiful illustrations just might change the way readers look at cockroaches. For more on this title, visit the Beautiful Martina website here. Spanish, ebook, and audio editions are also available!

Read an excerpt of this entertaining tale, and download the free teacher’s guide to learn more about Martina and her folktale background.

“Deedy’s text sparkles with sly humor… The stunning acrylic illustrations are full of color, light, and humor… This wonderful book will delight children.” ―School Library Journal

“Austin’s cockroach dwelling is a desirable piece of real estate, with its stairs made of gum wrappers, its wrought-plastic comb railing, and its exclusive mid-Havana address (it’s a lamppost). A friendly sprinkling of Spanish words, warmly drawn relationships and a lot of puns all widen the audience for this spirited story.” ―Publishers Weekly

“Lively and funny… Fun to compare with other versions, this telling has magic all its own.” ―Kirkus Reviews

“Deedy’s masterful retelling of this Latino folktale has a rollicking voice imbued with sly tongue-in-cheek humor. The acrylic illustrations, in a hyper-realistic style reminiscent of a softer William Joyce, are rendered in a vivid tropical palette. Shifting perspectives and points of view add vitality to the compositions, and facial expressions reveal both emotions and character traits. A scattering of Spanish words adds zest to this fine read-aloud.” ―Booklist

Order your copy of Martina the Beautiful Cockroach today from Amazon, IndieBound, Bookshop.org, or Barnes & Noble!

Kick off your middle grade summer reading adventure with The Bookshop Girl! This whimsical and delightful chapter book is the perfect story for young bookworms looking to start their summer reading lists off the right way. It’s a book for book lovers. Middle readers will love following along with the Joneses as they embark on a thrilling quest to save the Great Montgomery Book Emporium from a nasty villain.

The Joneses are lucky enough to win the Emporium in a contest, and it’s every book lover’s dream! Filled with rooms upon rooms of marvelous wonders, the simple pull of a lever bring forth the Room of Woodland Tales with its squirrels and mice, the rocket ship in the Room of Space Adventures, the aquarium ceiling in the Room of Ocean Tales, and so much more! But there is more to the Emporium than its thousands of books in extravagant displays. In fact, the previous owner is hiding something that could destroy absolutely everything for the Joneses, and Property Jones has a whopper of a secret too that might just be the key to saving her family and their bookshop.

Author Sylvia Bishop’s exceptional and fantastical U.S. debut features a cast of memorable characters, including the resourceful Property Jones herself and her cantankerous kitten side-kick, beautiful descriptions of the tactile pleasures of books, and the magical transporting quality bookstores can have for readers. Poly Bernatene’s endearing illustrations bring these quirky characters and their many adventures to life.

Can’t wait to read this whimsical chapter book? Read an excerpt! You can also hear from author Sylvia Bishop about her inspiration for the story in this Q&A, answer some fun questions with this free discussion guide, and find out which The Bookshop Girl character you’re most like in this personality quiz!

“Whimsical… Lively writing, broad humor, and a fast-paced plot will capture and keep readers’ interest, particularly those who, like the author and her characters, love books.”―Kirkus Reviews

“Winsome… Bishop’s fast-paced story charms and entertains.… A funny, inventive tale ideal for booklovers.” ―Booklist

Order your copy of The Bookshop Girl today from Amazon, IndieBound, Bookshop.org, or Barnes & Noble!

Stanley is a community helper that every young reader can emulate and celebrate at home with some fun, simple activities. We hope you explore the whole Stanley series, but we’re highlighting the below titles that show Stanley in roles that are especially vital right now.

Stanley the Farmer

It’s going to be a busy day on Stanley’s farm! From plowing the field, to planting the seeds, to harvesting the wheat, Stanley has a lot to do. Luckily, his friends Shamus and Little Woo lend a helping hand.

Start a conversation about where we get our food, and how farmers around the world are working hard to stock our farmer’s markets and grocery stores. Young readers can also start a garden of their own to learn the process of planting and the patience needed for growing food.

Read an excerpt!

Buy Stanley the Farmer today from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, IndieBound, or Bookshop.org.

Stanley’s Store

Stanley has fresh fruits and veggies to be unloaded, Myrtle needs help at the cheese counter, Shamus and Little Woo’s groceries must be rung up, and—oh no! Charlie just knocked over Stanley’s produce display. Even for an industrious hamster like Stanley, running a store is hard work! Can Stanley help his friends find everything they need?

Stanley’s Store helps young readers to explore grocery store processes, machines, and—most importantly—clerks. These are the people and things that make every trip to the grocery store and every grocery delivery a helpful and safe experience.

Think about how you can thank your local grocery store staff. You can send a card or make a “thank you” sign for grocery store employees and delivery drivers!

Read an excerpt!

Buy Stanley’s Store today from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, IndieBound, or Bookshop.org.

Stanley the Mailman

It’s going to be a busy day for Stanley! He gets up early to sort through the mail in his post office. Then he sets off through town to deliver the letters and packages to all his friends. Myrtle, Little Woo, and Charlie all receive exciting gifts and letters. But will everyone be happy with what’s in Stanley’s mailbag?

Is checking the mail an exciting, fundamental part of your daily routine? These days, many people are shopping online and having essential items delivered right to their doorsteps. Take time to talk about the men and women who are ensuring that everything is delivered safely and in a timely manner.

Is there a way you can celebrate your mailman? How about drawing a “thank you” sign to put up on the front of your house? Better yet, encourage everyone in your neighborhood to put “thank you” signs up on the same day!

Read an excerpt!

Buy Stanley the Mailman today from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, IndieBound, or Bookshop.org.

Stanley’s School

Ding, ding, ding! It’s time for school with Stanley and Hattie, and there are lots of eager students at school today! Stanley reads a story to Little Woo, Sophie, and Benjamin. Outside, everyone has fun in the garden, and Stanley’s lemonade and Hattie’s lovely fruit salad are delicious snacks for lunch right before a nice little nap. Things get a little messy during art time, though . . . uh, oh!

Being away from the structure and fun of school can be hard, but teachers around the world are supporting our communities with much-needed resources. Take some time to celebrate everything teachers are doing and have done for you!

Buy Stanley’s School today from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, IndieBound, or Bookshop.org.

Stanley’s Diner

Eggs and pancakes, coming right up! Stanley is cooking for all the hungry customers who come into his diner, while Hattie takes their orders. Then Stanley serves up a special cake – but whose birthday are they celebrating?

It’s easy to take restaurants for granted until we can’t go and enjoy all their delicious food! Have you ordered take-out or gotten curbside delivery lately? If not, get out and support the restaurants in your local community as they continue to provide much-needed nourishment and comfort. Ask your young reader about their favorite restaurant and get delivery or pick up breakfast, lunch, or dinner!

Read an excerpt!

Buy Stanley’s Diner today from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, IndieBound, or Bookshop.org.

Are you a Stanley fan? Check out the rest of the Stanley series, and sign up to receive exclusive Stanley content year-round!

In this gently rhyming board book, a young boy creates a garden one small action at a time. First, he digs in the dirt and plants seeds, then he adds soil, water, and some patience. With time, the seeds grow and the boy excitedly discovers what he has helped to make. This book provides a perfect sit-in-your-lap reading experience for toddlers.

Fantastic Flowers

by Susan Stockdale

With engaging rhymes and bright, bold images, award-winning author and illustrator Susan Stockdale introduces young readers to 17 different flowers from around the world—a dazzling display of beautiful blooms with colors and shapes that resemble actual things, from ballerinas to kissing lips to wild baboons, and more! Back matter tells a little bit more about each flower (including color photographs) and describes the pollination process.

Amara’s Farm
by JaNay Brown-Wood
illustrated by Samara Hardy

Amara is hosting a potluck for friends on her farm, and her snacks won’t be complete without pumpkins. She’s searched and searched, but she’s grown so many plants that she needs help finding them. What do we know about pumpkins? They’re large, round, and orange—and, wait a minute, is that a pumpkin? No, that’s an apple. Where, oh, where could those pumpkins be? Simple, playful text guides young readers through Amara’s farm, exploring the unique characteristics of the apples, cauliflower, eggplant, okra, persimmons, and more that grow there.

The King of Bees

by Lester Laminack

illustrated by Jim LaMarche

As he observes his Aunt Lilla work with the beehives on their Lowcountry farm, Henry can’t wait until he can have a bee-suit of his own so he can help with the sister bees. This stunning picture book introduces readers to the world of bees, beekeeping, and bee habitats through a gentle fiction story of a boy whose curiosity will be mirrored by every young reader. This gentle story will be a new favorite for both long-time and new fans of Lester Laminack.

A Tree for Emmy

by Mary Ann Rodman

illustrated by Tatjana Mai-Wyss

Emmy loves trees. She loves oak trees with acorns. She loves pine trees with cones, and willow trees with swishy branches. But best of all, Emmy loves the mimosa tree that grows in her grandmother’s pasture. So when Emmy decides she wants a mimosa tree of her own for her birthday, she is dismayed to find that many garden stores don’t sell them. Emmy is crushed—until she discovers that the answer to her problem is growing right before her eyes! Mary Ann Rodman’s joyful story will help readers appreciate the natural world around them.

Planting the Wild Garden

by Kathryn O. Galbraith

illustrated by Wendy Anderson Halperin

Eloquent and lyrical prose combined with stunning illustrations explore the many ways seeds are distributed and show how elements work together to create and sustain a wild meadow. In the wild garden, many seeds are planted, but not by farmers’ hands. Different kinds of animals transport seeds, often without knowing it. Sometimes rain washes seeds away to a new location. And sometimes something extraordinary occurs, like when the pods of Scotch broom burst open explosively in the summer heat, scattering seeds everywhere like popcorn.

Feast of Peas

by Kashmira Sheth

illustrated by Jeffrey Ebbeler

Every morning, Jiva works in his garden until the sun turns as red as a bride’s sari. He plants peas and beans, potatoes and tomatoes, eggplants and okra in his vegetable patch. When his friend Ruvji admires his plants Jiva sings,

Plump peas, sweet peas,
Lined-up-in-the-shell peas.
Peas to munch, peas to crunch,
I want a feast of peas for lunch.

But each time Jiva is ready to pick the peas for his feast, they’re already gone. What has happened? This original story from the award-winning author and illustrator team behind Tiger in My Soup features a deliciously amusing mystery about gardening, anticipation, hard work, and generosity.

Seed Magic

by Jane Buchanan

illustrated by Charlotte Riley-Webb

One day, Birdman, who sits in his wheelchair all day feeding seeds to the pigeons, fills Rose’s hands with slick, black seeds. He tells her they are magic—if she plants them outside her window they will grow a garden. Her brothers don’t believe, but Rose sets the seeds out and waits. Soon, like Birdman promised, a garden appears before her eyes—a musical flurry of red and yellow and blue, drawn to Rose’s window by seed magic even in the midst of the barren, gray city.

A Place for Butterflies

by Melissa Stewart

illustrated by Higgins Bond

In this informative nonfiction picture book, author Melissa Stewart shares the basic facts about butterflies and introduces young readers to some of the ways human action or inaction can affect butterfly populations. The book also provides pointers on how youngsters can help butterflies thrive in their own neighborhood and will open readers’ minds to a wide range of environmental issues.

Nina Soni, Master of the Garden
by Kashmira Sheth
illustrated by Jenn Kocsmiersky

It’s Take Your Child to Work Day, and Nina, Kavita, and Jay are all going to work with Mom, a landscape architect, to learn how to start a garden. Naturally that’s not enough for Nina, who quickly develops big plans for a business selling the vegetables she plans to grow. But her plans don’t include managing the problems that inevitably arise, including rabbits, slugs, mosquitos, and more! A great read for STEAM enthusiasts.

Grow: A Novel in Verse

by Juanita Havill

illustrated by Stanislawa Kodman

Award-winning author Juanita Havill brings to life the story of a community garden in an urban neighborhood and the mismatched people who carefully tend it. Told through the eyes of an impressionable girl, the series of richly detailed prose poems delivers a powerful story of the extraordinary magic that occurs every day when ordinary people work together. The result is an affecting, lasting portrait of community life and the power of shared commitment and hope.

Find these books and more at your local library, indie bookstore, or Barnes & Noble!

In the Snow
Written by Elizabeth Spurr
Illustrated by Manelle Oliphant

In this gently rhyming board book, a young girl makes a snowman, sleds, and has other winter fun! Elizabeth Spurr’s simple and evocative language and Manelle Oliphant’s charming illustrations together create a perfect sit-in-your-lap reading experience for toddlers.

Buy In the Snow today through your local bookstore, Barnes & Noble, or on Amazon.

Winter Babies
Written by Kathryn O. Galbraith
Illustrated by Adela Pons

Spirited, rhyming text and colorful, graphic art reveal an energetic cast of babies having an action-packed day of play in the park on a cheerful winter day. Featuring diverse characters and highlighting early concepts like shapes and repetition, books in the Babies in the Park series encourage an appreciation of nature and outdoor imaginative play.

Buy Winter Babies today through your local bookstore, Barnes & Noble, or on Amazon.

Where Is Baby?
Written by Kathryn O. Galbraith
Illustrated by John Butler

Babies love to hide―beneath blankets, under tables, and behind chairs. And some babies are found in unexpected places. Like baby deer, who disappear in dappled spring sunlight. Or baby leopards, who scramble high in the African trees. Or baby elephants, who fade behind a forest of legs. But all babies, no matter where they are, can always be found―by their loving parents. Adorable illustrations and soothing text depict a reassuring message about a parent’s love.

Buy Where is Baby? today through your local bookstore, Barnes & Noble, or on Amazon.

About Penguins
A Guide for Children
Written by Cathryn Sill
Illustrated by John Sill

In this addition to the acclaimed About… series, educator and author Cathryn Sill uses simple, easy-to-understand language to teach children what penguins are, how they look, how they move, what they eat, and where they live. With beautifully detailed, realistic paintings, noted wildlife illustrator John Sill introduces readers to a variety of penguins, from the Adélie to the Rockhopper to the Emperor. An afterword provides details on the animals featured and inspires young readers to learn more.

Buy About Penguins today through your local bookstore, Barnes & Noble, or on Amazon.

Under the Snow
Written by Melissa Stewart
Illustrated by Constance R. Bergum

When snow falls, we go home where it is warm and safe. What about all those animals out there in the forests and fields? What do they do when snow blankets the ground? Award-winning science writer Melissa Stewart offers a lyrical tour of a variety of habitats, providing young readers with vivid glimpses of animals as they live out the winter beneath the snow and ice. Constance R. Bergum’s glowing watercolors perfectly capture the wonder and magic that can happen under the snow.

Buy Under the Snow today through your local bookstore, Barnes & Noble, or on Amazon.

The Snow Lion
Written by Jim Helmore
Illustrated by Richard Jones

After moving to a new home, Caro wishes she had a friend, but she’s too shy to meet the neighborhood kids. With a little imagination, however, Caro finds the Snow Lion. Together, they have all kinds of fun racing, climbing, and playing hide-and-seek. But when the boy next door asks Caro to come play, Caro isn’t so sure. Then, the Snow Lion has an idea! Making new friends isn’t always easy, but it is always worth it in the end. This powerful but gentle story about making new friends is gorgeously illustrated to celebrate the magic and imagination that fills every page and will appeal to any shy or lonely young reader.

Buy The Snow Lion today through your local bookstore, Barnes & Noble, or on Amazon.

Snow Day!
Written by Lester L. Laminack
Illustrated by Adam Gustavson

When the television weatherman predicts a big snowfall, the narrator gleefully imagines the fun-filled possibilities of an unscheduled holiday from school. But when the family wakes up the next morning, they are in for a disappointment. No snow! As the family members pile into the car so they won’t be late for school, an unexpected twist reveals who wanted the snow day most of all. Adam Gustavson’s expressive illustrations comically capture the excitement of pure possibility in author Lester Laminack’s thoroughly original tale.

Buy Snow Day! today through your local bookstore, Barnes & Noble, or on Amazon.

Keep On!
The Story of Matthew Henson, Co-discoverer of the North Pole
Written by Deborah Hopkinson
Illustrated by Stephen Alcorn

As a child, Matthew Henson exhibited a yearning for adventure, embarking at age thirteen on a five-year voyage sailing the seven seas. His greatest adventure began when Robert Peary invited him to join an expedition to the North Pole. After many storms, injuries, and unimaginable cold, on April 1, Peary, Henson, and four Inuit men began the final 133-mile push to the Pole. Award-winning author Deborah Hopkinson pays tribute to a great but under-recognized African American historical figure in this remarkable story. Illustrator Stephen Alcorn’s large-format, stylized ink-and-watercolor illustrations capture all the action. Excerpts from Henson’s expedition diaries, a time line, and an epilogue place the story in its historical context.

Buy Keep On! today through your local bookstore, Barnes & Noble, or on Amazon.