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Naoki Higashida shares his thoughts and experiences as a young man living each day with severe autism. In short, powerful chapters, Higashida explores school memories, family relationships, the exhilaration of travel, and the difficulties of speech. He also allows readers to experience profound moments we take for granted, like the thought-steps necessary for him to register that it’s raining outside. Acutely aware of how strange his behavior can appear to others, he aims throughout to foster a better understanding of autism and to encourage society to see people with disabilities as people, not as problems.

Written by Naoki Higashida, a very smart, very self-aware, and very charming 13-year-old boy with autism, it is a one-of-a-kind memoir that provides a window into how an autistic mind thinks, feels, perceives, and responds. It is a “… wise, beautiful, intimate and courageous explanation of autism as it is lived every day by one remarkable boy.”

In a letter to young people, Ruby Bridges recounts her experience from 1960 when as a 6-year-old child, she integrated a grade school in New Orleans. Black and white photographs (historical and contemporary) reveal the hostility and hope that Ruby confronted then and now. This small book with an open format is sure to touch sophisticated readers.

Stories from the NFL’s long history intertwine with American history in this handsome and accessible examination of the sport. Captured in a conversational tone and dramatic illustrations this well-organized volume is sure to intrigue sports fans.

“It took the better part of a century to pass a law saying American women had the right to vote.” The 19th Amendment was the result of a massive effort by “tons of women beyond Susan and Elizabeth’s demographic…” Black, Native, Asian, and white women who contributed are presented here in an attractive format to broaden the understanding of women’s history.

Scientists are working to save the endangered California Condor. In rich narrative, the author provides information on the condor as well as the history and efforts of scientists to bring them back from the brink. Accompanying photographs add drama and personality for both feathered and human subjects.

Start at the beginning or jump into a topic that interests you! Whichever way you approach this handsome, fresh, and large volume, you will find fascinating information on a range of topics. As its reputation suggests, the venerable Britannica provides trustworthy information from cited authorities all in an engaging package.

Starting small and familiar, children look into a telescope and the amazing comparisons begin. After glimpsing the cosmos, readers are brought back on earth with children viewing their place in the universe. Limited text and stunning illustrations progress to present enormous ideas of cosmic proportion in this memorable look at one’s place in the universe.

William Still was the youngest child of parents who escaped slavery and went on to become the father of the Underground Railroad. His record keeping of those seeking freedom helped to reunite families separated by enslavement. Accessibly written, attractively illustrated, and well-researched, readers will discover a new and different kind of champion.

Have you ever wondered what a zookeeper does each day? Large, textured collages focus on animals as we learn about a zookeeper’s duties which involve everything from cuddling a joey to brushing a hippo’s feet. Factual information about zoos, the animals presented, and additional resources conclude this handsome book.

Girls weren’t allowed the freedoms known today. So how did an Irish girl named Margaret become an accomplished doctor and surgeon named James Barry in the 1800s? While her entire story isn’t clear, what is known is presented in evocative illustration and a crisp text with a factual afterword.

The author, a principal ballerina, introduces children to a ballet school. Boys and girls all begin with warmups, moving on to basic positions for both arms and legs. Readers are encouraged to try for themselves with the children depicted throughout.

Once, there were no protections for workers who often toiled in dangerous conditions for long hours. Until Frances Perkins, that is. After she witnessed a tragedy, Perkins toiled tirelessly to help workers all over the United States. This illustrated biography of the first woman on President Roosevelt’s cabinet is compelling, highlighting the events that shaped Perkins. Additional resources are included.

Staccato language is a call to action by children to do something about climate change. Black/white line illustrations are punctuated with green to provide emphasis and focus in this charming call to action. Actual young climate activists are presented at the end of the book.

Oakheart the Brave, an old tree, introduces trees in fact and folklore. The anthropomorphized narrator’s text is generously illustrated for an inviting and informative look at trees.

The child of immigrants, Jonas Salk helped develop the first flu vaccine in response to the devastating 1918 flu epidemic and went on to do again with the polio vaccine. This timely look at one man’s impact provides a glimpse at his life and the science of vaccines.

How a young Swedish girl’s concern for the environment became a global movement is presented here in straightforward language and illustrations that suggest Nordic art. Factual information and photographs complete this entry in the series.

Words that paint pictures to give one pause are called idioms. And they are used everywhere in the world! In America something unusual will happen when pigs fly but in India it happens when crows fly upside down. Stylized cartoonish illustrations complement the playful language and subtle introduction to various cultures.

The author started learning about animals by observing her dog as a child. Her respect and affinity for animals grew as she did, turning into a career as a writer and chronicler of animals and their behavior. Gently illustrated, the author shares thoughtful tidbits which is sure to lead readers to her other books.

Detailed, almost delicate illustrations of a diverse cast of characters affirm the joy in differences, all because each and every one matters. The illustrator’s signature style is worth multiple examinations.

No words are needed as a tree is transformed into a paper bag and begins its own journey from lunch bag to seedling carrier. Shown through illustrations that are punctuated with small splashes of color several stories are presented without words to inspire telling and sharing — and maybe a bit of environmental awareness.

Inspired by the Norwalk Community Quilt Project, this fictionalized account shows how a group of young and old come together to create a quilt for the library. The author/illustrator’s signature style is effective in presenting the step by step process. A final note and photograph of Peace by Piece participants concludes this uplifting book.

Based on a true story, The Water Walker, shares the story of Josephine Mandamin, a woman who was inspired by a prophecy to protect water. The book tracks her activism around water protection and the group of Water Walkers that she formed who join her on her many walks across North America. This is a dual-language edition in English and Anishinaabemowin.

To the Gitxsan people of northwestern British Columbia, the grizzly is an integral part of the natural landscape. They share the land and forests the Skeena River runs through, as well as the sockeye salmon within it. The Grizzly Mother explores how an ecosystem’s animals, people, and seasons are all intertwined.