Book Finder

Former U.S. Poet Laureate Herrara leads readers on a poetic journey to encourage writing. Brief biographical sketches of the poet are interspersed as are a variety of black and white illustrations. Aspiring poets are sure to be inspired by this creative mixture which uses made-up words from Lewis Carroll’s “Jabberwocky.” 

The hippy-hoppy toad’s rhyming adventure begins and ends calmly with the toad “in the middle of a road/on a teeter-totter twig”. Lots of things happen to the small critter in between in this animated and humorously illustrated tale of a positively engaging amphibian. 

Earth’s oceans hide giants, colorful creatures, critters that play hide-&-seek and other wonders. Headings on sturdy double-page spreads introduce each category; readers lift flaps to discover additional information. This playful introduction is sure to encourage further interest in the ocean and its hidden worlds.

Sophisticated haiku and illustrations done with colored pencil explore the Earth inside and out. The limited colors used in impressionistic illustrations complement the poetry’s brevity. The intriguing collection concludes with factual narrative and further resources.

This volume reports the findings of the National Literacy Panel on Language-Minority Children and Youth. The formal charge to the panel — a distinguished group of expert researchers in reading, language, bilingualism, research methods, and education — was to identify, assess, and synthesize research on the education of language-minority children and youth with respect to their attainment of literacy. 

An engaging look at the many contributions of Frederick Douglass — including his work as a publisher, a diplomat to Haiti, a bank president, and a prolific writer. Chockful of quotes, excerpts from Douglass’s writing, and images that capture the atmosphere of the times.

What other than a frilly Valentine shows a friend that they’re cared for? Maybe it’s as simple as a good-luck hopscotch rock or a dandelion that has been used to make a wish. Join this diverse group of friends as they show they care in simple, non-fussy ways that are definitely NOT Valentines!   

A cast of characters associated with Halloween look on as Fran (as in Frankenstein) cuts out a paper heart. Much to their horror, it is explained that Fran may be in love! Dully hued cartoons highlight Fran’s pink heart (seen as anything but a Valentine) and the object of his affection (perhaps the Bride of Frankenstein) in this funny riff on a traditional Valentine’s celebration.

Before he became a baseball hero, Jack R. Robinson became a four-letter athlete during his time at UCLA. Soon after he left college, he joined the army where he continued to stand up for what was right. His pre-baseball career is presented in a clearly documented, accessible text and expressive, evocative illustrations.

Love is an emotion that shows in many ways. From the unparalleled love that parents convey to their children to the “smell of crashing waves, and a train whistling …”  It is also the “crease in your grandfather’s face.” Through sophisticated, sometimes unsettling images and text, readers are reminded that though it all, “You’ll have love, love, love.” Also see the Spanish version: Amor (opens in a new window).

The life of the woman who became known as Harriet Tubman is presented to a new generation with an introduction by award-winning author, Jason Reynolds, and a stunning new cover by Kadir Nelson. Originally published in 1955, the readable text has the hallmarks of the novelist who wrote it. She places Harriet in historical context, breathing life into Tubman and her times.

Moose and the other animals really want Groundhog to join them for their Valentine’s party. But when Groundhog sees his shadow he returns quickly to his cozy home. Could Groundhog be afraid of his shadow? Might shadow games help? Readers will enjoy the humor in lush illustrations and the warm relationship between animal friends in this celebratory book.

The life and career of world renowned boxer, born Cassius Clay but better known as Muhammed Ali, is presented in a straightforward narrative accompanied by dramatic, realistic paintings.  Though first published in 2002, the information is factual and includes a timeline includes Ali’s 2016 death.

Young readers are called to action, because it is possible that “You can be a King” in small everyday ways. Brief, recognizable scenes and sophisticated ideas are realistically interspersed with simpler, child-like classroom goings-on to bring the concept closer to familiar experiences. The result is a lyrical book just right to launch discussions.

The story of the original Jamaican Bobsled Team is about having the courage to pursue your dreams, perseverance, and defining success in your own terms. The 4-man team competed at the 1988 Winter Olympic Games in Calgary, Canada — and although they didn’t win a medal, they won the heart of the entire world. The author, who wrote the story in poetry form, was a member of the team.

Callie Cat loves to ice skate. When the Honeybrook Ice Rink announces a contest, everyone thinks it could be Callie’s big chance! She wants to win the big prize … doesn’t she?

An a-to-z introduction to ice hockey and some highlights from its history. For example, “U is for Team USA-/Who, to everyone’s surprise,/at Lake Placid won Olympic Gold/before a nation filled with pride.” The use of Canadian spelling is a tribute to the origins of the game. Bold acrylic paintings depict professional players, as well as youngsters at play.

The winter sports season is here, and the Aldens are excited about all the snow activities — especially snowboarding. But soon they find themselves in the middle of a mystery surrounding a star athlete and a stolen snowboard.

In an ice-hockey match unrivalled in prehistory, this is the tale of the Meat-Eaters taking on the Veggiesaurs. By sorting teams into carnivores and herbivores the author sneaks in a science lesson in this amusing pairing of sport and prehistoric beasts.

Max and Marla are best friends. And aspiring Olympians! With their eyes on the prize, they know exactly what it’ll take to reach sledding success: preparation, practice and perseverance.

What would you be willing to do for a Winter Olympics gold medal? This story celebrates winter, following your dreams, and staying true to who you are. Meet Snowman Paul, who is energetic and playful — a snowman with big dreams who’s not afraid to be different.

Published in anticipation of the 2014 games in Sochi, Russia, this book includes Winter Olympics’ history, events, symbols, and controversies, as well as a chapter on the Winter Paralympics. Full-color action photos are accompanied by facts on the Olympics and Olympic athletes of the past. Back matter includes a table of top medal-winning countries, a world map, and a selective list of relevant websites.

An introduction to all 15 sport disciplines for the Winter Olympics as well as some of the top Team USA athletes. The book includes a history of the Winter Olympics with fun facts and trivia, as well as a Medal Tracker to keep track of the gold, silver, and bronze medals that Team USA brings home.

A collection of fast-paced poetry follows a cast of spirited pachyderms as they compete for gold in a variety of Olympic sports, such as diving, triathlon, hammer throw, and figure skating.