The author and illustrator who brought you Leaf Litter Critters are back with even more fun facts and humorous art! Explore the fascinating world of superlative birds―from the bee hummingbird, the tiniest bird in the world, to the peregrine falcon, the fastest creature on Earth.

Ever wonder which bird has the loudest voice? Which one builds the biggest nest or has the most feathers? Get to know all about the best and brightest―and smelliest!―denizens of the bird world with this collection of nonfiction science verses. You won’t need your binoculars to observe the superlative characteristics of these avian wonders. Follow along with a chickadee as it offers fun asides to each of the poems and provides hints to the special traits that only birds share. Readers can even scan a QR code for one of the poems and sing along!

An example of one of the talented birds featured is the lyrebird, known to have the fanciest courtship and best mimic. This copycat (or copy-bird), can imitate all kinds of sounds, from other bird songs to human-made noises. Watch and hear for yourself:

With a science glossary, notes on the various poetry forms, and resources for more information included in Superlative Birds, readers can continue to learn about these amazing animals and their unique talents and qualities. Witty and accurate illustrations add another layer of fun to this humorous and informative gallery. You might even discover a new favorite! Ideal for cross-curricular learning and a great read-aloud for National Poetry Month and beyond, this book is perfect for budding birders and science or poetry fans alike.

★ “With characteristic humor and carefully crafted language, poet Bulion offers readers amazing facts about birds of our world…. These engaging poems read aloud beautifully…. Meganck’s digital illustrations reflect the humorous tone…. Excellent resources for further bird study complete this delightful offering. Entertaining and educational, a superlative package.”
―Kirkus Reviews, STARRED REVIEW

★ “Fascinating facts… Meganck’s illustrations are one-dimensional and friendly, placing the birds against uncluttered backgrounds while clearly emphasizing the characteristic being highlighted by each poem.”
―Booklist, STARRED REVIEW

You might notice on the half-title page spread, illustrator Robert Meganck’s art alludes to his and Leslie Bulion’s previous book, Leaf Litter Critters. Can you find the hint in Superlative Birds about their next book? Look carefully or you could miss it!

Get your own copy of Superlative Birds on Amazon or at your local library, indie bookstore, or Barnes & Noble!

]]> https://peachtree-online.com/2019/02/superlative-birds-fascinating-facts-in-varying-verses/feed/ 2000 https://peachtree-online.com/2019/01/dr-carter-g-woodson-father-of-black-history-month/ https://peachtree-online.com/2019/01/dr-carter-g-woodson-father-of-black-history-month/#comments Tue, 29 Jan 2019 17:00:33 +0000 https://peachtree-online.com/?p=28730 Each year in the month of February, we celebrate the lives of Martin Luther King Jr., Harriet Tubman, and many other famous African Americans. Yet there are many African Americans throughout history who have made great contributions we know nothing about. Carter Reads the Newspaper is picture book biography of one man, Carter G. Woodson, and his commitment to learning, truth, and the creation of Black History Month.

Carter Reads the Newspaper
Written by Deborah Hopkinson
Illustrated by Don Tate

Carter G. Woodson was born to two formerly enslaved people ten years after the end of the Civil War. Though his father could not read, he believed in being an informed citizen. So Carter read the newspaper to him every day. When he was still a teenager, Carter went to work in the coal mines. There he met a man named Oliver Jones, and Oliver did something important: he asked Carter not only to read to him and the other miners, but also research and find more information on the subjects that interested them. “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.

“Young readers will be caught up in his story…. Quotes are seamlessly woven into the narrative, and a time line, list of sources, and bibliography add research appeal. Of special note are the illustrations, which include more than 40 portraits of black leaders… Their images and one-line biographies will pique further interest, making this a valuable resource for school and public libraries.” ―Booklist

“Hopkinson skillfully shapes Carter’s childhood, family history and formative experiences into a cohesive story.…the inclusion of notable figures from black history reinforces the theme (a key is in the backmatter). An important and inspiring tale well told.” ―Kirkus Reviews

“Conversational… Delicately textured mixed-media illustrations…offer spare, stylized images…” ―Publishers Weekly

“Thorough back matter… A charmingly illustrated picture book biography for elementary schoolers.” ―School Library Journal

“Exemplary… This inspiring picture book combines a rich but focused text with clear, expressive mixed-media illustrations. It sheds light on an important, inspiring, but little-known subject, and the supplemental back matter gives weight to the exceedingly important takeaways that history must include all people, and that anyone can change history.” ―Shelf Awareness

Facts about Dr. Carter G. Woodson:

• Carter G. Woodson was born December 19, 1875 in New Canton, Virginia.
• He worked as a coal miner for three years before he finished high school.
• At the age of 37, Carter earned a PhD in history from Harvard University, the second African American to do so.
• Carter was the first and only Black American whose parents had been slaves to receive a doctorate in history.
• In 1915 Carter founded the Association for the Study of African American Life and History, an organization still thriving today.
• In 1926 Carter founded Negro History Week (which became Black History Month), to be observed in February, in honor of the birthdays of Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln.

It’s surprising that someone so integral to our celebration of Black history does not have more books written about his life. Carter never wrote much about his own personal history. But we know that he listened and learned from those around him, and then shared what he learned with others.

Because of Carter’s great and lasting contribution to Black history, throughout the month of February in celebration of Black History Month, we will spotlight the lives and legacies of Black men and women who have contributed to our history, and share resources to help young readers learn about the significance of Carter G. Woodson’s life and his contribution to society. Follow along on our Twitter page as we highlight some important and lesser-known figures in Black history throughout February to continue Carter Woodson’s goal of celebrating a history “void of national bias, race hate, and religious prejudice.”

Here are more resources to help celebrate Black History Month:

Download your own Carter G. Woodson poster.

Check out the teacher’s guide for Carter Reads the Newspaper.

Print out your own copies of the endpapers of Carter Reads the Newspaper,
which features portraits of Black leaders throughout history.

Read our Q&A with author Deborah Hopkinson and illustrator Don Tate.

Check out our round-up of books to read during Black History Month and beyond.

Carter Reads the Newspaper is available at your local library, indie bookstore, or Barnes & Noble!

The award-winning About… series launches new monolingual Spanish editions with Sobre los mamíferos: Una guía para niños and Sobre los pájaros: Una guía para niños! These thoughtful first-glimpses into the world of these fascinating creatures provide young Spanish-speaking readers a chance to learn more about the natural world.

In Sobre los mamíferos, author Cathryn Sill answers the first questions of young naturalists by explaining the characteristics of what mammals, including what they are, how they live, and what they do. Noted wildlife illustrator John Sill depicts the charm of this wide class of animals―including the large Blue Whale, the small American Pika, and humans―with his beautiful realistic paintings. An afterword provides further details about the animals, inspiring young readers to learn more.

“Pre-school and primary-grade teachers will find this an attractive choice for units on mammals.” ―Booklist

“A quality book for introducing mammals, it is also well bound and worthy of addition to the young reader’s library.” ―NSTA Recommends

“The paintings draw viewers in with their warmth, charm, and accuracy…. This is ideal for storytimes…” ―School Library Journal

In Sobre los pájaros, learn about basic information about birds with simple, easy-to-understand language. The accompanying illustrations showcases the diversity of this fascinating category, from the recognizable American Robin and Ruby-throated Hummingbird, to the Bald Eagle and the Greater Roadrunner. The afterword offers more facts about birds, and more back matter includes a glossary and sources for young readers to continue their studies.

“Exceptionally detailed and uniformly accurate…the Sills succeed admirably.” ―School Library Journal, STARRED REVIEW

“The full-color illustrations by wildlife artist John Sill are so lifelike that one almost expects the birds to fly off the pages…a wonderful visual introduction…” ―Booklist

“Fifteen exquisite, scrupulously accurate watercolors of birds in their habitats are captioned by a deceptively simple text…An excellent concept book that takes its young audience seriously while skillfully providing the basics of an important subject.” ―Kirkus Reviews

“An age-appropriate amount of text on each page is accompanied by beautiful, watercolor illustrations of each bird. More advanced readers and their mentors might appreciate the afterword, containing more detailed information on the birds depicted in the main body of the book.”
―NSTA Recommends

For more information and resources for the About… and About Habitats series, check out the series pages! To learn more about the creation of their beautiful and informative books, hear Cathryn and John discuss the inspiration for their work, and watch John Sill’s process of his watercolor illustrations in the videos below.

Look for Sobre los mamíferos: Una guía para niños and Sobre los pájaros: Una guía para niños on Amazon or at your local library, indie bookstore, or Barnes & Noble starting February 1!

Pipsqueaks, Slowpokes, and Stinkers: Celebrating Animal Underdogs is a book about anti-superlatives. Instead of focusing on the world’s biggest, fastest, strongest animals, my goal was to shine a light on creatures that are small or slow or shy or clumsy, but still manage to survive—and thrive.

As I was researching, my goal was to identify animals that could be classified as “underdogs” because they have characteristics or behaviors that humans might consider weaknesses. But, in fact, those perceived flaws are the secret to the animals’ survival success.

Educators like the book because it has a lively, playful voice and can be used in two ways. First of all, it’s perfect for science units about animal adaptations. Young readers really get excited about some of the book’s interesting and surprising examples.

The book’s gentle message of respecting one another and celebrating differences can also help teachers ease into conversations about bullying and other interpersonal conflicts that they may have noticed in their classroom. Even though the message is subtle, kids get it. And they often find themselves relating strongly to one of the animals in the book.

I had both of these uses in mind as I was writing Pipsqueaks, Slowpokes, and Stinkers, and I’m delighted that teachers find these aspects of the book valuable. But what has surprised me about the book is students’ fascination with discovering and learning about animals that are completely new to them.

For some reason, it never occurred to me that creatures like the shy okapi, the stinky hoatzin, and the tiny Etruscan pygmy shrew would be unfamiliar to young readers, and they would want to know more, more, more—much more than we could squeeze into the back matter—about these captivating critters.

As soon as we realized our readers’ desire for more information, the folks at Peachtree and I put our heads together and developed an awesome downloadable Meet the Underdogs poster to accompany the book. I’m happy to report that kids love it.

I’ve also been delighted with all the ways teachers are using the book in writer’s workshop. Thanks to social media, elementary educators have let me know that they are using Pipsqueaks, Slowpokes, and Stinkers to help students identify the theme or concept of a nonfiction book. They’re also using it as a mentor text to model voice, word choice, strong verbs, varying sentence length, direct address, imbedded questions, alliteration, and internal rhyme.

Wow, teachers are so clever! Sometimes they see things in my writing that I’m not even aware of. There’s always more to learn about the craft of nonfiction writing.

If you’re a teacher who’s using Pipsqueaks, Slowpokes, and Stinkers or one of my books in your classroom, please let me know via Twitter, Facebook, or email. I love hearing these stories.

Melissa Stewart is the award-winning author of more than 180 science books for children. She has always been fascinated by the natural world and is passionate about sharing its beauty and wonder with readers of all ages. For more resources for Pipsqueaks, Slowpokes, and Stinkers, also check out the teacher’s guide and readers’ theater. Find this book at your local library, indie bookstore, or Barnes & Noble. How are you using Pipsqueaks, Slopwokes, and Stinkers in your classroom or with your readers? Let us know!

 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.

Want to introduce the wonders of winter to your little one? Check out our activity suggestions!

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 and Manelle Oliphant together create a perfect sit-in-your-lap reading experience for toddlers. Read an excerpt here.

Immi’s Gift
Written & illustrated by Karin Littlewood

A young girl way, way, way up north in a snow-covered world finds a small colorful surprises on he end of her fishing line. When visiting the fishing hole for the last time, she drops a little wooden bear into the water. Far away on a beach in the hot, hot sun, a young boy throws a colorful object into the water, then a small wooden bear washed up on the beach catches his eye.

This simple, affecting story filled with quiet magic shows how individuals around the world connect and enrich each other’s lives. Beautiful watercolor illustrations vibrantly depict the story’s shifting locations―from the frozen Arctic to the tropical shoreline. Read an excerpt here.

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

This beginner’s guide offers a first glimpse into the natural world of penguins, including what penguins are, how they look, how they move, what they eat, and where they live. Beautifully detailed, realistic paintings, show readers a variety of penguins, from the Adélie to the Rockhopper to the Emperor. Read an excerpt here and check out the series teacher’s guide. Learn more about the rest of the award-winning About… series here.

About Habitats: Polar Regions
Written by Cathryn Sill
Illustrated by John Sill

This beginner’s guide explores the major attributes of the Arctic and Antarctic biomes, like what they are and what kinds of animals and plants live there. The full-color illustrations show the striking beauty and remarkable diversity of these amazing  regions using examples from around the globe. Read an excerpt here and check out the series teacher’s guide. Learn more about the rest of the award-winning About Habitats series here.

Polar Star
Written by Sally Grindley
Illustrated by John Butler

While her new cubs Snowball and Snowflake are too young to venture far from their den, Polar Star shows them the delights of their ice and snow wonderland home. But when the cubs are old enough to leave the safety of the den, they must learn how to survive in their beautiful yet hostile world and follow Polar Star across the treacherous sea ice in search of food.

This factually accurate portrayal of the joyful but often dangerous life of the largest meat-eating mammals on earth includes wondrous landscape paintings that reveal the grandeur of the Arctic world.

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? This lyrical tour of a variety of habitats provides young readers with vivid glimpses of animals as they live out the winter beneath the snow and ice, and glowing watercolors perfectly capture the wonder and magic that can happen under the snow. Check out the teacher’s guide and readers’ theater for ideas of how to use Under the Snow in the classroom.

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. Read an excerpt here and learn more about the creation of the book with our Q&A with author Jim Helmore.

I Am Tama, Lucky Cat
A Japanese Legend
Written 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, Lucky Cat. Tama truly earns his nickname―“Lucky Cat,” when during a powerful thunderstorm, he sees a towering warlord on a white horse. The cat beckons the warrior forward just as a large branch crashes to the ground and lands right where the warlord had previously stood. 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,”  in early Edo-period Japan―this beautiful story of friendship, generosity, and kindness includes graceful text  and breathtaking watercolor illustrations. Read an excerpt here.

The Story Blanket
Written by Ferida Wolff & Harriet May Savitz
Illustrated by Elena Odriozola

Babba Zarrah lives in a tiny village in the snow-covered mountains. The children love to visit her. They settle down on her big, old story blanket and listen to her imaginative tales. One day Babba Zarrah notices that Nikolai needs new socks, but she has no yarn. “Every question has an answer,” Babba Zarrah tells herself, “I just have to find it.” After the children leave, she unravels part of her story blanket and knits him some nice warm socks. As villagers start receiving mysterious gifts to keep them warm, the story blanket gets smaller and smaller until the children have nothing to sit on at story time. When the villagers finally discover Babba Zarrah’s secret, they decide to give her a surprise of her own.

Enhanced with charming illustrations, this heartwarming story of generosity makes for a wonderful read aloud experience.

Jake’s 100th Day of School
Written by Lester L. Laminack
Illustrated by Judy Love

Jake and his fellow students are getting ready for a celebration. Tomorrow is the 100th day of school and everyone is going to share their collections of 100 things. The day of the celebration arrives, but Jake forgets the 100 family pictures he has glued into a special memory book at home. Disaster! Thanks to Jake’s ingenuity and the sensitivity of his principal, Mrs. Wadsworth, Jake does have a collection to display that day… and something special to share with the class on the 101st day of school.

As classrooms prepare for the 100th day of school during winter, use this well-crafted story as inspiration for how to celebrate this exciting day of school. Find a teacher’s guide here.

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.

This clever take on this familiar childhood wish features an unexpected twist sure to surprise and delight school-age readers. Read an excerpt here.

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

This stunning picture book tells the story of the under-recognized Matthew Henson who joined Robert Peary’s great 1909 expedition to reach the North Pole. The team endured storms, shifting ice, wind, injuries, accidents, and unimaginable cold. Finally, on April 1, Peary, Henson, and four Inuit men began the final 133-mile push to the Pole. Excerpts from Henson’s expedition diaries, a time line, and an epilogue place the story in its historical context.

For more resources, check out our teacher’s guide here.

Flying Over Brooklyn
Written by Myron Uhlberg
Illustrated by Gerald Fitzgerald

While trudging through deep snow in a neighborhood park, a young boy is suddenly hit with a strong wind that grabs his coat and lifts him into the air. As the young boy is soaring over familiar sites―a bridge over a frozen river, a baseball field, and an amusement park―he gains a new perspective, escaping from the routine of everyday life. But when the boy returns to the safety of his home, he is left wondering: was it all just a marvelous dream?

Based in part on author Myron Uhlberg’s childhood memories of the Great Blizzard of 1947, the author’s note provides details about the snowstorm and places this fantasy in its historical context. Find the teacher’s guide here.

Claude on the Slopes
Written & illustrated by Alex T. Smith

Claude and his best friend Sir Bobblysock go to the Snowy Mountains to swish down the powdery slopes. They throw snowballs, learn to ski, and enter a snow-sculpture contest. But when an avalanche threatens their winter wonderland, Claude must come to the rescue.

Quirky, delightfully odd, and positively surreal, this illustrated early chapter book series promises giggle-filled bedtime reading and a laugh-out-loud option for readers transitioning from picture books to chapter books. Read an excerpt here.

The Last Polar Bears
Written & illustrated by Harry Horse

Grandfather and Roo, a remarkable little dog with strong views and a short attention span, is off on an expedition to the North Pole to find the Last Polar Bears. They endure storms, high seas, a temperamental sea captain, and seasickness until the ship reaches Walrus Bay. In a primitive coastal town, Grandfather gets in a game of golf, but unscrupulous wolves plague him and Roo. Finally, Grandfather, Roo, and a penguin companion head off on foot to find the Great Bear Ridge, home to the Last Polar Bears.

This hilarious, original story through a series of letters written by Grandfather to his grandchild will delight young and old alike. Winsome pen-and-ink illustrations capture the charmingly eccentric personalities of Grandfather and his delightful canine companion and the amusing calamities that befall them.

Life in a Frozen World
Wildlife of Antarctica
Written by Mary Batten
Illustrated by Thomas Gonzalez

Even in the intensely cold, windy, and dry environment of Antarctica, a wide variety of wildlife finds ways to thrive, but can they survive warmer waters and atmosphere? Scientists are racing to find out. Antarctica’s creatures depend on the ice. And in the long run, so do we.

From talented and experienced nature writer Mary Batten, this amazing nonfiction picture book provides valuable information about one of the most hostile environments on the planet. It is an ideal resource for young science lovers and educators looking to discuss the effects of climate change. The informative text and stunning artwork by New York Times bestselling illustrator Thomas Gonzalez are sure to spark a passion for conservation of this incredible habitat. Read an excerpt here, and check out the teacher’s guide for informative classroom activities.

Lilliput
Written by Sam Gayton
Illustrated by Alice Ratterree

She is a girl three inches tall with eyes like drops of dew. Her clothes are cut from handkerchiefs and stitched with spider silk. For half her life, she has been trapped in a birdcage while her giant kidnapper sits beside her, writing in a leather-bound book the size of a house. Her name is Lily, and tonight she is escaping. She is going home. To Lilliput.

Inspired by Gulliver’s Travels, Lilliput is an exhilarating and imaginative adventure filled with cunning escape plans, evil clock makers, and talkative parrots. Join Lily as she travels through eighteenth-century London―over rooftops, down chimneys, and into chocolate shops―on a journey to find the one place in the world where she belongs…home. Read an excerpt here and check out the discussion guide, great for middle grade book club!

The Wreck of the Ethie
Written by Hilary Hyland
Illustrated by Paul Bachem

In 1919, just before Christmas, the S.S. Ethie sets sail for St. John’s Harbor, but a violent winter storm casts the steamship onto the rocky cliffs of northwest Newfoundland, threatening the passengers’ survival. Ninety-two passengers and crew, all eager to be reunited with family for the holidays, are now at the mercy of the stormy sea. Seeing the wrecked ship off the coast, a fishing family sends their dog Skipper, a hardworking and courageous Newfoundland, to brave the icy and dangerous waters to carry a lifeline from the sinking ship to shore.

This minute-by-minute fictionalized account of the S.S. Ethie’s dramatic voyage vividly brings the adventure to life, showing the spirit of survival among the passengers and crew, as well as the strength and determination of a poor fishing family and their courageous dog to save those ninety-two souls. Read an excerpt here.

Murphy, Gold Rush Dog
Written by Alison Hart
Illustrated by Michael G. Montgomery

After escaping from his brutal and merciless owner, Murphy is taken in by a young girl named Sally. She and her mother have just arrived in Nome, Alaska, intent on joining the other gold seekers and making a new life. Yet even with Murphy at their side, Sally and Mama find living in the mining town harsh and forbidding. When it seems they may have to give up, Sally and Murphy decide to strike out on their own, hoping to find gold and make a permanent home. But dangers await them―not only blizzards and grizzly bears, but also Murphy’s original owner, who will stop at nothing to get what he wants.

This action-packed and heartwarming story explores the roles that dogs played during the Alaskan gold rush. Read an excerpt here. Check out the teacher’s guide and learn more about the award-winning Dog Chronicles series.

Anna’s Blizzard
Written by Alison Hart

It is 1888. Twelve-year-old Anna loves life on the Nebraska prairie where she lives with her parents and four-year-old brother in a simple sod house. She doesn’t mind helping out with chores, especially when she is herding sheep with her beloved pony, Top Hat. On the open prairie, Anna feels at home. But at school she feels hopelessly out of place. Arithmetic is too hard, her penmanship is abysmal, and stuck-up Eloise Baxter always laughs at her mistakes. When an intense Nebraska blizzard traps Anna, her schoolmates, and young teacher in the one-room schoolhouse, Anna knows they must escape before it is too late.  Does she have the courage and strength to lead her school through the whiteout to safety?

This dramatic story of rescue and survival, based on “The School Children’s Blizzard” features a plucky, determined protagonist. An author’s note provides more information about prairie life in the late nineteenth century and about the great storm that hit Nebraska in 1888. Read an excerpt here.

The Cheshire Cheese Cat
A Dickens of a Tale
Written 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. He hopes to trade London’s damp alleyways for the warmth of ye olde Cheshire Cheese Inn, so he strikes a bargain with Pip, an erudite mouse. Skilley will protect the mice who live at the inn, and in turn, the mice will provide Skilley with the thing he desires most. But when Skilley and Pip are drawn into 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!

New York Times best-selling author Carmen Agra Deedy and author Randall Wright collaborate on this compelling and playful homage to Charles Dickens set in Victorian England. With the stunning artwork of award-winning illustrator Barry Moser, The Cheshire Cheese Cat is filled with charming characters and important themes of friendship and loyalty. Read an excerpt here and check out the discussion guide!

Look for these titles at your local library, indie bookstore, or Barnes & Noble. Have a favorite winter read? Let us know in the comments!

Countdown:
2979 Days to the Moon
Written by Suzanne Slade
Illustrated by Thomas Gonzalez

★ “Elegant and informative, this is sure to attract casual browsers and true space nerds alike.” ―Booklist, STARRED REVIEW

★ “Captivating free-verse narrative…vivid mixed-media illustrations that stun with photographic realism and varied perspectives…this well-researched title offers a stirring introduction to one of humankind’s most impressive undertakings.” ―Publishers Weekly, STARRED REVIEW

★ “Stunning… Slade’s carefully crafted, often alliterative text, written in free verse, is both succinct and readable, drawing this large topic down to the most necessary and interesting facts with enough detail to excite young teens as well as adults who may have lived through the missions.… Truly out of this world. A must-buy for most poetry collections.” ―School Library Journal, STARRED REVIEW

Parents’ Choice Gold Award ―Parents’ Choice Foundation, 2018

Eureka! Gold Nonfiction Children’s Book Award ―California Reading Association, 2018

Outstanding Science Trade Books for Students K-12 ―NSTA / CBC, 2019

Booklist’s Top 10 Sci-Tech Books for Youth 2018

Best STEM Books ―ASEE / ITEEA / NSTA / SEPA / CBC, 2019

Chicago Public Library Best of the Best Book ―Best Information Books for Older Readers 2018

The Planetary Society‘s 2018 Recommended Space Books for Kids

Air & Space/Smithsonian magazine’s Best Children’s Books of 2018

Celebrate Science‘s 17 Favorite STEM Books of 2018

Mackin Books in Bloom‘s 2018 Favorite Nonfiction

My Storytime Corner‘s Best Children’s Books of 2018

Hoover Library’s Staff Picks of 2018: Nonfiction

Leaf Litter Critters
Written by Leslie Bulion
Illustrated by Robert Meganck

★ “The poems are expertly crafted in a variety of forms (identified in the backmatter). The language is lively and the imagery appropriate. With alliteration, internal rhymes, and careful rhythm, these will be a delight to read aloud and learn…. Meganck’s engaging digital drawings give each creature pop-eyes and attitude…. A delightful, memorable introduction to an unsung ecosystem.” ―Kirkus Reviews, STARRED REVIEW

Eureka! Nonfiction Children’s Book Award Silver Honor ―California Reading Association, 2018

Moonbeam Children’s Book Award (Silver, Children’s Poetry) ―Independent Publisher, 2018

In the Rain
Written by Elizabeth Spurr
Illustrated by Manelle Oliphant

★ “This charming board book…will inspire conversation and simple science explorations.” ―Kirkus Reviews, STARRED REVIEW

My Storytime Corner‘s Best Children’s Books of 2018

Miguel y su valiente caballero:
El joven Cervantes sueña a don Quijote
Written by Margarita Engle
Illustrated by Raúl Colón

★ “With the assistance of Mlawer and Lázaro, National Young People’s Poet Laureate Engle brings to children the childhood of the great storyteller Miguel de Cervantes y Saavedra in his native tongue….the Spanish translation by Mlawer and Lázaro beautifully captures the rhythm and language of the original…. Colón’s remarkable pen-and-ink-and-watercolor illustrations have an old-masters quality that perfectly complements the narrative… This is a worthy translation of a beautiful and engaging book.” ―Kirkus Reviews, STARRED REVIEW

A Fuse #8 Production: 31 Days, 31 Lists: 2018 Bilingual Books for Kids

Best Children’s Picture Books of the Year in Spanish ―Bank Street College of Education, 2019

Am I Yours?
Written and illustrated by Alex Latimer

★ “This is a must-have addition to any children’s collection and a surefire crowd-pleaser at a dinosaur storytime. One might call it a roaring success.” ―Booklist, STARRED REVIEW

The Snow Lion
Written by Jim Helmore
Illustrated by Richard Jones

★ “A well-crafted tale about healthy adaptation to new environs merges with superb artwork.” ―Kirkus Reviews, STARRED REVIEW

Atlanta Parent’s Best Books of 2018

Pipsqueaks, Slowpokes, and Stinkers
Celebrating Animal Underdogs
Written by Melissa Stewart
Illustrated by Stephanie Laberis

Eureka! Gold Nonfiction Children’s Book Award ―California Reading Association, 2018

Golden Kite (nonfiction honor book) ―Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators, 2019

The Nerdies: Nonfiction Picture Books ―Nerdy Book Club, 2018

Heise Reads & Recommends: Favorite 2018 Nonfiction Picture Books

Mile High Reading‘s Picture Books I Loved in 2018

Pernille Ripp‘s Favorite Books of 2018

Kid Lit Frenzy‘s End of the Year Favorites

The Brainstorm Plus‘s Top 10s of 2018: Juvenile Nonfiction

King & Kayla and the Case of the Lost Tooth
Written by Dori Hillestad Butler
Illustrated by Nancy Meyers

Chicago Public Library Best of the Best Book ―Best Fiction Books for Younger Readers 2018

A Fuse #8 Production: 31 Days, 31 Lists: 2018 Easy Books

The Nerdies: Early Readers and Early Chapter Books ―Nerdy Book Club, 2018

We are Teachers‘ 50 of the Best Books for First Grade

The King of Bees
Written by Lester L. Laminack
Illustrated by Jim LaMarche

Parents’ Choice Recommended Award  —Parents’ Choice Foundation, 2018

Mississippi Library Commission’s Best Picture Books of 2018

Izzy Gizmo
Written by Pip Jones
Illustrated by Sara Ogilvie

Parents’ Choice Fun Stuff Award ―Parents’ Choice Foundation, 2018

Mockingbird Award (Nominee) ―Abilene Independent School District, 2018-2019

Omaha Public Library‘s Top Shelf: Staff Favorites from 2018

Best STEM Books ―ASEE / ITEEA / NSTA / SEPA / CBC, 2019

A Mighty Girl‘s 2018 Best Books of the Year

Little Whale
Written and illustrated by Jo Weaver

Parents’ Choice Recommended Award ―Parents’ Choice Foundation, 2018

My Storytime Corner‘s Best Children’s Books of 2018

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

Outstanding Science Trade Books for Students K-12 ―NSTA / CBC, 2019

Kalinka and Grakkle
Written and illustrated by Julie Paschkis

Parents’ Choice Recommended Award —Parents’ Choice Foundation, 2018

Blacksmith’s Song
Written by Elizabeth Van Steenwyk
Illustrated by Anna Rich

Parents’ Choice Recommended Award —Parents’ Choice Foundation, 2018

The Secret Science of Magic
Written by Melissa Keil

Parents’ Choice Silver Honor Award ―Parents’ Choice Foundation, 2018

Hansel & Gretel
Written & illustrated by Bethan Woollvin

A Mighty Girl‘s 2018 Best Books of the Year

Library Matters‘s Most Memorable Picture Books of 2018

Abraham Lincoln’s Dueling Words
Written by Donna Janell Bowman
Illustrated by S.D. Schindler

A Fuse #8 Production: 31 Days, 31 Lists: 2018 American History

Find these titles and more at your local library, indie bookstore, or Barnes & Noble. Do you have a Peachtree favorite from 2018? Let us know!

For: The Fairy Tale Fanatic

Hansel & Gretel
Written and illustrated by Bethan Woollvin

In this subversive and deliciously wicked retelling, Willow is a good witch, who only uses good magic―until she meets Hansel and Gretel.

Featuring Bethan Woollvin’s signature striking and humorous visuals, this fractured fairy tale has twist ending that is sure to surprise and delight all readers! For more fairy tale twists from Bethan Woollvin, check out Little Red and Rapunzel.

The Princess and the Packet of Frozen Peas
Written by Tony Wilson
Illustrated by Sue deGennaro

Prince Henrik wants to marry an outdoorsy kind of girl, so instead of a single pea tucked into a pile of bedding, Henrik tests prospective brides with an entire packet of frozen peas shoved under a flimsy camping mattress. As princess after princess complains, will Henrik ever find the right girl?

This modern rom-com remix of the beloved fairy tale “The Princess and the Pea” delivers a freshly humorous take on one prince’s search for the just-right girl of his dreams.

The Boy Who Cried Ninja
Written and illustrated by Alex Latimer

In this quirky twist on “The Boy Who Cried Wolf,” Tim’s outrageous excuses turn out to have an unexpected element of truth.

Bubbling with wit and humor from start to finish, author-illustrator Alex Latimer’s debut picture book with wacky characters like ninjas, pirates, crocodiles, and time-traveling monkeys, will have readers of all ages laughing out loud. Read an excerpt here.

Prairie Chicken Little
Written by Jackie Mims Hopkins
Illustrated by Henry Cole

When Mary McBlicken the prairie chicken hears a rumblin’ and a grumblin’, she sets off to warn her friends in this prairie-style twist on “Chicken Little.”

Jackie Mims Hopkins brings readers a hilarious, prairie-style rendition of a well-loved tale. Henry Cole’s energetic illustrations perfectly complement the hilarity and will have readers laughing out loud. Also available in Spanish.

Find these titles and more at your local indie bookstore or Barnes & Noble. Still looking for more great ideas? Our 2018 Holiday Gift Guide has even more gift recommendations for your little readers this holiday season!

For: The Youngest Reader

Stanley’s Colors
Written and illustrated by William Bee

Stanley and Little Woo are learning about colors and vehicles. There’s a red car, a yellow motorbike, and even a pink balloon!

This fun board book is filled with bright, bold illustrations and features adorable characters. For Baby’s first book about colors, Stanley’s Colors offers the perfect introduction, while also proving a great opportunity to learn about shapes and modes of transportation. Read an excerpt here.

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, this fun board book encourages an appreciation of nature and outdoor imaginative play.

Little Whale
Written and illustrated by Jo Weaver

Little Whale and Gray Whale swim under midnight skies and through coral reefs as they migrate to the cool, rich waters of the North to feed until, at last, they are home.

Introducing the annual migration of gray whales through gentle text and stunning monochromatic illustrations, this beautiful picture book reveals the wonder of nature, the excitement of discovery, and the strength of parental love. Read an excerpt here.

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

Adorable illustrations and a soothing text depict the many ways animal babies hide.

From baby rabbits leopards to baby ostriches and even a human baby, little readers will love learning about new animals and seeing where they hide. The gentle text is a reassuring message about parent’s love with the adorable backdrop of John Butler’s illustrations.

Find these titles and more at your local indie bookstore or Barnes & Noble. Still looking for more great ideas? Our 2018 Holiday Gift Guide has even more gift recommendations for your little readers this holiday season!

For: The Young Activist

Dangerous Jane
Written by Suzanne Slade
Illustrated by Alice Ratterree

For twenty-five years, Jane Addams had helped people live in peace at Hull House. But when war broke out, she decided to take on the world and become a dangerous woman for the sake of peace.

Learn about Jane Addams’s inspiring actions in this heartening picture book biography. While Jane’s world efforts for peace won her the title “Most Dangerous Woman in America” by the FBI, she eventually became the first American woman to win the Nobel Peace Prize. This book will truly change the way the readers think about the impact of generosity and kindness! Read an excerpt here.

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

With a deep belief in America’s promise of “freedom and justice for all,” young Ida defied society’s conventions and used her position as a journalist to speak against injustice and be a tireless crusader for civil rights.

With eloquently written text and whimsical illustrations, this stunning picture book biography of one of the most important progenitors of the Civil Rights Movement will inspire any young reader looking to make a difference.

Marching with Aunt Susan:
Susan B. Anthony and the Fight for Women’s Suffrage
Written by Claire Rudolf Murphy
Illustrated by Stacey Schuett

Stirred to action when Susan B. Anthony comes to town to lead the campaign for women’s suffrage, 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, this thought-provoking introduction to the fight for women’s rights reminds readers that society cannot evolve unless people—even young people—dare to take a stand.

Fault Lines in the Constitution:
The Framers, Their Fights, and the Flaws the Affect Us Today
Written by Cynthia Levinson & Sanford Levinson

Many of the political issues we struggle with today have their roots in the US Constitution. The Levinsons take readers back to the creation of the US Constitution and discuss how contemporary problems were first introduced—then they offer possible solutions.

Perfect for young government and history buffs, this engaging and thought-provoking look at the Constitution’s creation and it’s ramifications in today’s society will encourage exploration and discussion from young and old readers alike. Read an excerpt here. For more from award-winning author Cynthia Levinson, also check out We’ve Got a Job: The 2963 Birmingham Children’s March.

Find these titles and more at your local library, indie bookstore, or Barnes & Noble. Still looking for more great ideas? Our 2018 Holiday Gift Guide has even more gift recommendations for your little readers this holiday season!

From the author-illustrator of Rapunzel and New York Times Best Illustrated Children’s Book Little Red comes another fractured fairy tale! This time, Bethan Woollvin’s clever twist redefines the meaning of a villain.

Willow is a good witch who lives deep in the forest, practicing good magic and minding her own business. That is, until she meets Hansel and Gretel. Willow never used to worry about messy breadcrumb trails or parts of her carefully constructed gingerbread house being eaten.  No one has ever bothered with her spell books or been rowdy in her quiet little yard. But that’s exactly what Hansel and Gretel do, and who knows how long Willow’s patience will hold.

This subversive retelling of the classic “Hansel & Gretel” tale features Bethan Woollvin’s signature, striking three-tone illustrations and sassy sense of humor. Readers will gasp with glee at the turn of each fun and boldly printed page. Woollvin is sure to have readers thinking about what it means to be a heroine or a villain, considering their sense of good and evil…and possibly rethinking that next bite of gingerbread.

“Striking… Children will enjoy comparing the traditional story to this delightfully twisted version.” —Booklist Online

“Marked by sly humor and an impish sense of mischief…entertaining text… Wicked fun.” —The Horn Book Magazine

“A bold, graphic style… Delicious.” —Kirkus Reviews

“Readers get a humorous and unique version of an oft-told tale.” —School Library Journal

Follow along with the story by creating your own Hansel and Gretel! Check out the activity sheets here!

Also, we are so excited to announce that Bethan will be going on tour with us this month in New York, DC, Athens, GA., and Atlanta! Come to one of these events in your area to meet Bethan Woollvin and get a signed copy of Hansel & Gretel!

New York City: BookFest @ Bankstreet – Saturday, October 20

Washington, DC: Politics and Prose – Monday, October 22 @ 10:30am

Athens, GA: Avid Bookshop – Tuesday, October 23 @ 6:00pm

Atlanta, GA: Little Shop of Stories – Wednesday, October 24 @ 5:00pm

Get your own copy of Hansel & Gretel  on Amazon or at your local library, indie bookstore, or Barnes & Noble!