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Huw’s family’s good fortune changes for the better when the silver cow falls in love with music from Huw’s harp; it changes again, however, because of his father’s interminable greed. The Welsh countryside comes to life in soft, evocative watercolor illustration and a rhythmic retelling of a traditional tale.

While on holiday, the Drew children Barney, Simon, and Jane find a map in a hidden room in the Cornwall house, involving them and their great uncle, Merry, in a struggle between good and evil steeped in Arthurian legend. The first in the Dark is Rising sequence, the entire series exudes a strong sense of place and traditional tales. (The sequence continues with The Dark is Rising (opens in a new window) followed by Greenwitch (opens in a new window), The Grey King (opens in a new window), and concludes with Silver on the Tree (opens in a new window).

Boy is transported to the Land of Story when the Magician’s Saint George puppet disappears. There Boy meets well known characters from traditional tales, demonstrates great bravery, and gains a real name. Gentle humor and familiar characters are hallmarks of this fantasy for younger readers.

Nat Field finds friendship and relief from the loss of his parents when acting and is thrilled when chosen to go to England to perform in the new Globe Theater. Instead, he is transported back in time to perform in the original and meet William Shakespeare. Past and present come alive for contemporary readers in this riveting look at the connections between time and place.

Until it strikes uncomfortably close to home, three English boys are fascinated by the war and the bombing of their city, London. Derek and his friends come to understand true fear and the meaning of war in this realistic novel that explores themes of friendship, fear, and retaliation.

When the Volnick family accidentally brings a Boggart home to Toronto from Scotland, the results are tumultuous and very funny. It’s up to Jess and Emily to figure out how to return the rascally spirit. The family meets the Boggart again on another visit to Scotland with similar outrageous results (which include a renowned water creature) in The Boggart & the Monster (opens in a new window). Both books are steeped in the magic and traditions of the region in which they are set.

Product Description: A young boy and his papa may speak both Spanish and English, but the most important language they speak is the language of love. Here, Arthur Dorros portrays the close bond between father and son, with lush paintings by Rudy Gutierrez.

This handsomely illustrated book is accompanied by a CD of songs and lullabies from various parts of Africa.

In this 3rd book about Pacy, she and her family plan to go to Taiwan to celebrate her grandmother’s birthday.

When Nelly’s family could no longer keep the small brown dog, she came to the Rainbow Street Animal Shelter and became a special part of it. Nelly quieted all of the anxious animals when they arrived and even inspired Sam (who met her pet there) to suggest a program to help reluctant readers. Warmly told, this engaging novel is just right for animal lovers.

Sophisticated readers curious about weather science will be riveted by this highly illustrated, well documented, and clearly written look at tornadoes and their power. Photographs from satellites and the ground, newspaper headlines and more are presented album-like to dramatically present the storms power.

John Adams and Thomas Jefferson were very different in everything from appearance to what they liked to do. But they agreed on one thing: King George of England was a tyrant! This lighter look at American history is factual and informative and may be just the introduction to Independence Day as well as two of its key figures.

Spunky speaks only Dog but understands Human and has a special affinity for Huey (first introduced in the Stories Julian Tells (opens in a new window)). Spunky’s narration provides insight into Dog customs and human behavior as well has his frustration when they bring a snobby cat into the family as a friend for Spunky! Readers will laugh at Spunky’s observations in this fast-paced family story.

William Hoy wasn’t born deaf but lost it as a boy growing up in rural Ohio. In spite of his hearing loss, Hoy went on to become a remarkable major league baseball player at the end of the 19th century. His little known story is sure to inspire contemporary readers who will meet him in this handsome, detailed picture book biography.

The word “mom” has it; so does a butterfly. Once you know what it is, you see it everywhere! A clear introduction to the topic is presented in accessible language and crisp, well-labeled illustrations in a colorful format. Suggestions for activities, a lucid explanation of its importance in math, and a glossary conclude this attractive volume.

Pinch is too lazy to make his own soup so visits his friend, Dash who is making some. With ingredients from both kitchens, however, the friends make a tasty soup which turns into an inedible disaster. Short chapters and engaging illustrations create an accessible, engaging book for newly independent readers.

Poems combine with information and evocative illustrations to create a sense of wonder about space and space-related topics. Beginning with a countdown (“T-minus:/10/9/8…./Spaceship soaring!”) and concluding with a child wondering about “My Place” in the universe, this intriguing collection is sure to delight readers.

Hal is lonely and knows that a dog would become his companion and best friend. His adventure begins when his wealthy parents return a rented pup leaving Hal with only one option: running away. The adventure involves a poor but worthy friend, valiant dogs, and a series of improbably but engaging events that culminate happily.

Mason winds up joining the basketball team under relentless encouragement from his best friend, Brody, even though Mason knows he’s a klutz. The disasters mount especially when the class bully joins an opposing team. Children will appreciate the situations Mason finds himself in and enjoy the gratifying resolutions.

Can the Lunch Lady protect the Breakfast Bunch of Thompson Creek School from evil mutants posing as “mathletes” in a school math competition? Readers will find out in the latest installment of kids and their offbeat superhero done in signature black/white illustration in graphic format.

People all around have homes in which to live, but not all of them look alike. Dwellings old and new, in the U.S. and around the world, small and large, are presented in highly detailed, colorful collages and brief but informative text. A final map places the locations on a simple world map.

Outdoor adventures await adults and children throughout the year. Illustrated, easy to follow instructions and a can-do approach are sure to inspire readers of all ages to learn as they choose from a range of games and activities with background information included.

Many different types of frogs, frog lifecycles, etc. are presented through brief but illuminating information and highly realistic watercolors. A concluding note about the impact of humans on frogs, insight into the author’s interest and additional resources conclude this handsome and engrossing look at this animal.

Freddie Ramos’ super running and jumping powers and his confidence disappear after the loss of his zapatos. When his special-soled shoes are found, Freddie is able to successfully confront a bully as well as his own swimming fears. Easy but lively language and line drawings present an engaging story for new readers.