New to Fallsburg Library: New Picture Books/Easy Readers

A whimsical and lyrical celebration of imagination and exploration if we simply asked, "What if . . ." Follow two siblings through their day as they let their imaginations run wild in this joyful story about all the possibilities a simple "what if" can conjure up: What if the monsters in your closet wanted to be your friend? What if all of the dinosaurs were shrunk to be teeny-tiny when the comet hit the earth? And what if bedtime didn't exist and we could imagine anything we wanted? What If Bedtime Didn't Exist? places an Urban Indigenous family at the heart of a fun and fantastical celebration of daydreaming, adventure, and play while living in the city. The tenderness and care in this intergenerational home is seen through relationships with all members in the family. Mathias Ball's vibrant illustrations bring each page of acclaimed author Francine Cunningham's debut picture book to life. What If Bedtime Didn't Exist? opens up new spaces for creativity and endless possibilities into our everyday world.

Meet this pint-sized unicorn in this funny, modern fairy tale about perception and self-confidence from a Caldecott-Honor winning creator. Once upon a time, in a land where horses were mythical beasts, there lived a unicorn-a Teeny-Weeny Unicorn. He lived with his family in a palace-one that was extra-large for him, full of extra-large rugs and extra-large food. And when his brother and sister played chess, they used him in place of a pawn. When it's just too much to take, Teeny-Weeny Unicorn runs away-and has a chance encounter with a salty gnome. It's then that he suddenly starts to wonder... IS he teeny weeny? Or is he just the right size? Every kid will relate to Teeny-Weeny Unicorn, as he figures out how to live in a world not made for his stature. With wit and charm, as well as delightful illustrations, Shawn Harris creates a modern classic made for sharing-be it at bedtime or on a story time rug.

The author of Nigel and the Moon, delivers a tender intergenerational story inspired by his childhood in the rural south. Here's a farm stand that represents the importance of family, community, and hope. Every stand has a story. This one is mine. Saturday is for harvesting. And one little boy is excited to work alongside his Papa as they collect eggs, plums, peppers and pumpkins to sell at their stand in the farmer's market. Of course, it's more than a farmer's market. Papa knows each customer's order, from Ms. Rosa's pumpkins to Mr. Johnny's peppers. And when Papa can't make it to the stand, his community gathers around him, with dishes made of his own produce. Heartwarming illustrations complement the lyrical text in this poignant picture book that reveals a family's pride in their work, and reminds us to harvest love and hope from those around us.

Prepare for plenty of giggles as a kindergarten class arrives for their first day of school, but can't find their teacher--only a delicious-looking sandwich and the words "Mr. S" scribbled on the chalkboard. Chaos ensues as the kids argue whether or not the sandwich must be their teacher. A comical, first day of school book of mayhem and chaos by Monica Arnaldo, perfect fans of Miss Nelson Is Missing. It was the first day of school. But even the kindergarteners of room 2B could tell something was seriously wrong . . . Where was the teacher Who left this sandwich on the desk The only clue, written on the chalkboard, were three simple letters: Mr. S

A book for anyone who has ever loved a dog.Dear Dogs,Thank you for being there when we are sick, or hurt, or in trouble.Thank you for licks and hugs when we feel down, or just need to smile.Thank you for all that you do, for always being at our sides.This is our love letter to you!Give thanks to every human's best friend, in this sweet and inclusive ode to dogs of all kinds - with an emphasis on service dogs - written by animal expert Maria Gianferrari and illustrated by Ishaa Lobo.

Discover both the past and present day's fight to vote with Quetta Little as she learns the power of casting your vote in this ideal picture book from acclaimed author Leah Henderson and illustrator Keisha Morris. The perfect companion for any young reader during election year! It's Election Day, and Quetta, her mother, and her grandmother embark on their journey to cast their vote. Trekking through their vibrant neighborhood, they meet obstacle after obstacle before--and after--reaching their voting station. Unwilling to give up, Quetta's mother and grandmother teach her about the importance of voting and those who fought for their right--and Quetta comes to discover the power of raising her voice. With warm illustrations, engaging text, and insightful timeline, Your Voice, Your Vote will inspire readers to embrace this civic duty in the face of today's continued fight for voting rights.

The beloved, multi-award-winning duo of Mac Barnett and Jon Klassen tackle a perennial question. When Santa arrives at a child's house on Christmas Eve, does he go down the chimney feet first or headfirst? What if he gets stuck? What if there's no chimney? Maybe he slides under the door, as thin as a piece of paper? Or is it possible he pours himself through the faucet? What happens once he's inside? Whether it's shape-shifting or impromptu laundry use, Mac Barnett's iconic talent for earnest deadpan humor and Jon Klassen's irresistibly funny art honor the timeless question with answers both ridiculous and plausible, mounting in hilarity as the night continues. Channeling a child's fanciful explanations (and begging for further speculation), this latest collaboration by a New York Times best-selling team will find a secure spot among family holiday traditions.

Don't miss the seventh picture book in the #1 New York Times bestselling Food Group series from Jory John and Pete Oswald! The Big Cheese is the best at everything, and brags about it, too. When the annual Cheese-cathlon comes around, the Big Cheese is prepared to win, as always. But what happens when the quiet new kid, Wedge Wedgeman, comes out on top Is a slice of humility all the Big Cheese needs to discover that some things are better than being the best Jory John and Pete Oswald serve up another heaping plate of laughs and lessons with this empowering, witty, and charming addition to their #1 New York Times bestselling series! Check Out Jory John and Pete Oswald's other funny bestselling books for kids 4-8 and anyone who wants a laugh: The Bad Seed The Good Egg The Cool Bean The Couch Potato The Smart Cookie The Sour Grape The Good Egg Presents: The Great Eggscape! The Bad Seed Presents: The Good, the Bad, the Spooky! The Cool Bean Presents: As Cool As It Gets! The Bad Seed Goes to the Library The Good Egg: Talent Show That's What Dinosaurs Do

The stunning new picture book by presidential inaugural poet Amanda Gorman and Caldecott Honor-winning illustrator Christian Robinson. You're told that This won't work, But how will you know If you never try? Presidential inaugural poet and #1 New York Times bestselling author Amanda Gorman and Caldecott Honor and Coretta Scott King Honor winner Christian Robinson have created a timeless message of hope. Sometimes the world feels broken. And problems seem too big to fix. But somehow, we all have the power to make a difference. With a little faith, and maybe the help of a friend, together we can find beauty and create change. With intimate and inspiring text and powerfully stunning illustrations, Something, Someday reveals how even the smallest gesture can have a lasting impact.

An inspiring picture book about how children can combine art and activism in their daily lives. "They say I'm an artist. They say I'm an activist." When a young boy realizes the scope of inequities in the wider world, he's seized with the urge to do more. He decides to bring together the different parts of himself--the artist and the activist--to become. . . an Artivist. After his mural goes viral, he sets out to change the world one painting at a time. With inspiring text and stunning illustrations by Nikkolas Smith, The Artivist is a call to action for young readers to point out injustice in their lives and try to heal the broken bones of the world through their art.

Academy Award-winning actress, founder of Hello Sunshine, and bestselling author, Reese Witherspoon is back with a second picture book in the New York Times bestselling Busy Betty series! Busy Betty has always been busy. Every day she wakes up with a million questions and a billion ideas! And today she has an amazing idea: she's throwing her mom a birthday party. Shhh . . . It's a surprise! Then Betty and her best friend, Mae, have the best idea of all: What if they threw Mom a circus surprise party?! It will be the greatest day in the history of the universe! Everything is perfect until Betty realizes--oh, no!--Mom's birthday isn't today . . . it's next month. Whatever will they do with their circus surprise now? Reese Witherspoon's Busy Betty is an exuberant, smart, and larger-than-life character who encourages young readers to tackle each obstacle with enthusiasm, excitement, and big ideas.

Fergus lives down in the deepest, darkest sea and is scared of just one thing ... the light! Fresh and funny narrative non-fiction from the award-winning Anna McGregor. From award-winning creator Anna McGregor (author of Anemone is Not the Enemy) comes this hilarious tale of the deepest of sea creatures. Seamlessly combining humor, narrative, and non-fiction, McGregor introduces young readers to the wonders of the ocean's 'midnight zone', where no sunlight at all is able to penetrate. We meet Fergus as he hides from a parade of sea-creatures that use bioluminescence to find their way in the dark. At least, we think he is hiding ... or is it something else entirely? This book is ideal for: Educators and librarians looking for humorous stories to use as a launching pad for further non-fiction investigation into the ocean environment; Parents and carers looking to combine narrative and non-fiction to entertain and educate their children simultaneously; Kids who just want funny books!

An I Can Read story from New York Times bestselling duo Jane O'Connor and Robin Preiss Glasser: Nancy is all set to wear something special for Pajama Day at school. But when Bree and Clara show up in matching outfits, Nancy feels left out. Will this Pajama Day be as fun as she thought? Fancy Nancy: Pajama Day, a Level One I Can Read adventure, is carefully crafted using short sentences, familiar words, and simple concepts for children eager to read on their own. Contains a glossary of Fancy Nancy's fancy words.

This adorable New York Times bestselling early chapter book series is perfect for young girls who love friendship stories starring animal characters! Pick a book. Grow a Reader! This series is part of Scholastic's early chapter book line called Branches, which is aimed at newly independent readers. With easy-to-read text, high-interest content, fast-paced plots, and illustrations on every page, these books will boost reading confidence and stamina. Branches books help readers grow! Eva Wingdale gets in over her head when she offers to organize a spring festival at school. Even with her best friend Lucy's help, there is NO way she will get everything done in time. Will Eva have to ask Sue (a.k.a. Meanie McMeanerson) for help? Or will the festival have to be cancelled? This book is written as Eva's diary -- with Rebecca Elliott's owl-dorable full-color illustrations throughout! Continue this book series with "Eva the Owlet," an Apple TV+ original series!

Is there a ghost in Treetopolis? Eva sure thinks so -- find out in the next installment of this New York Times bestselling series! Pick a book. Grow a Reader! This series is part of Scholastic's early chapter book line called Branches, which is aimed at newly independent readers. With easy-to-read text, high-interest content, fast-paced plots, and illustrations on every page, these books will boost reading confidence and stamina. Branches books help readers grow! In this second book in the series, Eva sees a ghost! Or at least, she thinks she does . . . With her friend Lucy by her side, Eva goes in search of the ghost. Eek! This owl-dorable series will appeal to girls who love stories about animals and friendship! Continue this book series with "Eva the Owlet," an Apple TV+ original series!

In the third installment of this New York Times bestselling series Eva's teacher is getting married -- and the whole class is invited to the wedding! Pick a book. Grow a Reader! This series is part of Scholastic's early chapter book line called Branches, which is aimed at newly independent readers. With easy-to-read text, high-interest content, fast-paced plots, and illustrations on every page, these books will boost reading confidence and stamina. Branches books help readers grow! Eva's teacher, Miss Featherbottom, is getting married. All of her students have been invited to the wedding. And Eva starts a Secret Wedding Planners Club! But before Miss Featherbottom walks down the aisle, her necklace goes missing. Eva wants to help! She quickly turns her Wedding Planners Club into a Detectives Club. Can Eva track down the missing necklace before Miss Featherbottom's wedding is ruined? Continue this book series with "Eva the Owlet," an Apple TV+ original series!

Author Dave Eggers and artist Júlia Sardà spin a quirky historical event into a whimsical and tall-ish true tale of American ingenuity. Make way for history as only Dave Eggers could stage it. It all started when John "Minnie" Moore built a mine in Idaho and sold it to Englishman Henry Miller. Then Henry married a local lass named Annie and built her a mansion, hence the "Millers' Minnie Moore Mine Mansion." After Henry died and Annie was hoodwinked--losing all but the mansion--she and her son took to raising pigs in the yard, as some are wont to do. But the town wanted those pigs out. Who could have guessed that Annie and her crew would remove the whole mansion instead--rolling it away slowly on logs--while she and her son were still living in it? Narrated with metafictional flair, this delightfully illustrated picture book is proof positive that nonfiction can be as lively and artful as any storybook.

In the spirit of Mo Willems and Ben Clanton, this "extremely funny and spot-on sensitive" (Kirkus Reviews, starred review) picture book shows how a good friend can become even better by trying new things and putting others first. Cat and Duck are very good friends and play together all the time, so when the new slide gets built, they can't wait to try it out! Only, the slide is very big and curvy--what if it's too big for Cat? As Cat and Duck move closer to the front of the line, Cat imagines everything that could go wrong until his worries start to rub off on Duck. Now Duck doesn't want to go down the slide either. Cat feels bad that Duck is missing out on the fun because of him. Can he find a way to make it right?

A new generation of children love Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood, inspired by the classic series Mister Rogers' Neighborhood! Daniel Tiger is excited for his first Show-and-Tell at school in this 8x8 storybook! Daniel can't wait for Show-and-Tell Day! But what should he bring to school to share with his friends? Come along in this sweet storybook based on an episode of the beloved show.

This picture book follows the story of an eager cockroach and his family who hitch a ride to school -- with hilarious results. For fans of I Don't Want to Be a Frog. Everyone's favorite cockroach from Your Birthday Was the Best! is back, and this time he's going to school . . . and bringing his whole family along for the ride! From show-and-tell to arts and crafts, this little stowaway can't wait to try it all . . . and maybe become the new teachers' pet! Charming, hilarious and just a tiny bit disgusting, this is a school tale with a twist.

A heartwarming and humorous story about one girl determined to embrace the spice of sambal in order to connect with her grandmother and heritage-perfect for fans of Amy Wu and the Perfect Bao and Thank You, Omu! When Lintang finally gets to taste her nenek's yummy, mouthwatering sambal, she's delighted! But when she takes a bite it's . . . SPICY! Her lips burn, her mouth feels like it's on fire, and her taste buds are crying for help. Desperate to fit in with her family, Lintang tries many different types of sambal, but they're . . . HOT! With a little help from Nenek, will Lintang find a way to beat the heat and connect with her Indonesian heritage?

Don't look at this raccoon and think she'll eat just anything. Oh, no. She is picky! She's been choosy forever--and listen, it's a tough life. It's not as though the perfect snacks just fall from the sky (except when they do). You've got to work to find the sourest milk, the crunchiest bumblebees, and the most delicious trash. Snacking while picky is a real challenge sometimes . . . but you never know where you'll find the tastiest treats to try! From the gross to the giggle-inducing, I Am Picky is sure to delight even the choosiest of eaters--and readers.

From parents and actors Jazmyn Simon and Dulé Hill comes a picture book filled with beautiful, inspiring affirmations reminding kiddos of their infinite wonder. Perfect for children of any age! I am worthy. I am loved. I am enough. Every child, no matter their age, needs to know how loved they are and, more importantly, should love themselves. In this gorgeously illustrated book of affirmations, young readers are told how cherished, deserving, and gifted they are. In their tender picture book, actors Jazmyn Simon and Dulé Hill tell children about the magic of self-love and standing firm, regardless of outside voices and doubt. Children will feel their confidence grow as they repeat the encouraging words on the page, take in the warm illustrations, and learn to believe in themselves!

Ride along with Uni on a magical adventure to help the Tooth Fairy! Are you a helper like Uni the unicorn? When someone you love gets a wiggly tooth, it may be cause for excitement or anxiety. Ease any fears and bring on the joy with this humorous story focusing on the magic and delight of the Tooth Fairy--and Uni the unicorn, of course! The little girl has a wiggly tooth! Soon the Tooth Fairy will come and give her a prize. But there's one problem . . . the Tooth Fairy is soooo tired! Luckily, Uni the unicorn is always ready to help. They've got a long night ahead, and shhh, they'll need to be quiet! It just might take a little Uni magic, too. . . . This new line of Helper picture books, based on the New York Times bestseller Uni the Unicorn also includes Reindeer Helper. Celebrate the magic of believing with Uni.

In this evocative and playful companion to their New York Times bestselling picture book How to Read a Book, Newbery Medalist Kwame Alexander teams up with poet Deanna Nikaido and Caldecott Honoree Melissa Sweet to celebrate the magic of discovering your very own poetry in the world around you. Begin with a question like an acorn waiting for spring. From this first stanza, readers are invited to pay attention--and to see that paying attention itself is poetry. Kwame Alexander and Deanna Nikaido's playful text and Melissa Sweet's dynamic, inventive artwork are paired together to encourage readers to listen, feel, and discover the words that dance in the world around them--poems just waiting to be written down.

From New York Times bestselling creator of Tomorrow I'll Be Brave comes a delightful picture book following an inquisitive little letter "u" as she goes on a class field trip to find out all the ways letters are seen and used in the world. It's the annual "Find Yourself Field Trip" at Ms. Bracket's School of Little Letters, and "u" couldn't be more excited. She can't wait to see all the ways letters are used in the world-they're on everything from books to boats, from sidewalks to spaceships! And it's starting to make her wonder one important question- Who will she be when she grows up? With clever storytelling and vibrant, powerful illustrations, bestselling author-illustrator Jessica Hische has created an enchanting picture book that is not only an accessible introduction to typography for kids, but also a wonderful reminder to embrace one's individuality and curiosity as they grow older. This story is perfect for fans of Emily Winfield Martin, and it makes an excellent gift book for big moments like graduation and birthdays with its empowering question to little ones-who will you be?

In this adorable picture book for fans of Amy Wu and the Perfect Bao and Bilal Cooks Daal, Hiro aspires to make a bowl of ramen as delicious as his dad's--and runs into some surprises on his first attempt! Hiro loves ramen. Every Sunday, Hiro's dad makes delicious, perfect ramen for dinner, using a recipe passed down from his dad. There's nori seaweed, briny like the ocean; nitamago egg, the yolk golden like the sun; and chashu pork so tender, it melts in your mouth. Yum! Hiro's dream is to make his own perfect bowl, and he's sure he can do it after watching his dad and taking notes. But when he gets started, things don't go according to plan. The seaweed crumbles! The eggs slip through his fingers! The pork falls apart! Hiro is worried he'll never be a real ramen chef...but thanks to his father's wise advice and his own creativity, Hiro discovers that every person's perfect bowl of ramen is unique.

Author-illustrator June Tate makes her debut with a heartwarming picture book comparing the seemingly small but tenderly profound moments hidden in our world. A modern-day classic in the making for fans of Margaret Wise Brown and William Steig. This extraordinary book focuses on the everyday moments that slow the world down for us: a hug from someone we haven't seen in a long time, the soft spot behind a cat's ear, a ladybug landing on your arm. And in the end, the answer to the question of what's sweeter rings truest of all. The perfect gift for occasions ranging from celebrations like birthdays and graduation to a just-because gift appreciating someone. Pass this book to the sweetest around you.

As the sun sets, three siblings discover nature's nighttime beauty in this soothingly rhythmic and gorgeously illustrated bedtime picture book from the acclaimed author-illustrator team behind Green on Green. Gentle the evening. Sweeping the skies. Dark the shadows as twilight arrives. Rose the horizon, gleaming and bright. Twilight and evening and dark on light. When the family dog trots away from the house at sunset, three siblings tumble out the door to go find him. Soon they find themselves immersed in the luminous colors, shades, and shadows of nature at night--both dark and light. They wander through moonlit lavender meadows, past a timid fawn, beneath a snowy white owl, and much, much more as the night deepens until, at last, they find their sneaky pup. With beautiful illustrations by Felicita Sala and lyrical text by Dianne White that's perfect for reading aloud, this book invites young readers to step into the wondrous, colorful nighttime natural world.

A New York Times Bestseller! Based on the #1 New York Times bestselling picture book sensation The Good Egg, Jory John and Pete Oswald present: The Great Eggscape! Includes two sticker sheets, perfect for decorating your own eggs. The Great Eggscape is when the Good Egg and his pals escape their carton and drop into the store for a morning of fun, enjoyed by everybody. Well, almost everybody. Shel (an egg) isn't a huge fan of group activities, especially when he's made to be "It" for a game of hide-and-seek. Nevertheless, Shel doesn't want to let his friends down, so he reluctantly plays. But after a morning of hiding and seeking, somebody's still missing. Will the dozen eggs friends ever be reunited Find out in this hilarious egg hunt adventure that reminds us to break out of our shells and help our friends in need! A funny book to share anytime, and the two sticker sheets make it especially egg-cellent for Easter. Check out Jory John and Pete Oswald's funny, bestselling books for kids 4-8 and anyone who wants a laugh: The Bad Seed The Good Egg The Cool Bean The Couch Potato The Good Egg Presents: The Great Eggscape! The Bad Seed Presents: The Good, the Bad, the Spooky! The Cool Bean Presents: As Cool as It Gets That's What Dinosaurs Do

We all know about the guy in the red suit at the North Pole. But what if the world's toymaker was a little boy? From the author and illustrator of Shy Willow comes the adorable little Toymaker, who makes wonderful toys... not for children, but for their grandparents and other older folk. (People often forget that they, too, like toys!) But it isn't always easy. One morning, an old woman brings the little Toymaker a candy tin she played with as a girl. The little Toymaker takes the tin and TA-DA! comes back with a sparkling new toy for the old lady. But it seems that what she truly wants was lost a long time ago. And it will take all the Toymaker's skill, magic, and empathy to bring it back for her. A new holiday classic for a new generation, The Little Toymaker is the perfect story to share between generations young and old(er).

Follow a hermit crab on the perilous journey to replace his outgrown shell in this classic picture book by the author of the popular Judy Moody and Stink series. Hermit Crab has outgrown his shell, and it's time for a new home to keep him safe from predators. The beach is strewn with possible choices, but none are quite right. A rock is too heavy; a tin can is too noisy; a fishing net has too many holes. He stepped along the shore, by the sea, in the sand . . . scritch-scratch, scritch-scratch When a giant wave sends Hermit Crab careening toward a hungry porcupine fish, will he find a hiding place in time? Katherine Tillotson's immersive artwork breathes new life into this classic text by Megan McDonald, beloved author of the Judy Moody series. Brand-new backmatter provides further learning about all things hermit crab. A Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection

Pete the Cat and his family are making tacos in this storybook by New York Times bestselling author-illustrator team Kimberly and James Dean. Includes over thirty stickers! It's Tuesday, and Pete is hungry for delicious tacos. But the taqueria is closed! Pete has an idea--he and his family will make their own tacos, even if they don't have the typical toppings. Will a scoop of creativity and a dollop of problem-solving be the right ingredients to save Taco Tuesday? Join Pete the Cat in this story full of family, friends, and wacky tacos!

In this hilarious retelling of "The Three Little Pigs", three little tardigrades set out to find a home that's just right for them--all while watching out for the Big Hairy Wolf Spider. Gavin, Colin, and Doug live on a cozy little drop of H2O until one day, their mother tells them it's time for them to grow up and leave home. In search of the perfect place to settle down, the three little tardigrades (also known as "moss piglets") journey to an underwater ice cave, an erupting volcano, and even the moon! They can survive under extreme conditions, but can they avoid the Big Hairy Wolf Spider. . .? Humor and scientific facts about these resilient microscopic creatures come together to remix a beloved story-with an unexpected twist (and tons of laughs)! Includes material at the end of the book with detailed information about tardigrades, a glossary of terms from the book, and more science for eager young readers.

A gluttonous pea runs afoul of a very hungry princess in this playful cautionary tale inspired by a favorite cumulative rhyme and a classic fairy tale. There was a green pea who swallowed a sprout. Without a doubt, a brussels sprout. What's that about? This little pea is hungry! So hungry it swallows a sprout, slurps up some soup, munches the bread, gobbles the cake, noshes the pickle, guzzles the cheese, drinks all the tea, and even chomps down the table it's all served on. After all that, it needs to sleep. But whose dinner did it steal? And whose mattress is the now-humungous pea resting under? With bold, delightfully detailed illustrations and a bouncy verse perfect for reading aloud, this wickedly funny mash-up of "The Princess and the Pea" and "There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly" will have little listeners clamoring for multiple helpings.

Are you ready to find some Easter eggs, Kitty? Kitty doesn't want an Easter egg. Kitty wants the Easter egg. Kitty wants...the GOLDEN EGG!So she goes on the hunt.There! A blue egg! But Kitty doesn't want a blue egg.Or there! A purple egg! But Kitty doesn't want a purple egg.But then...Kitty sees something! Something round...and sparkly...Will Kitty find the GOLDEN EGG? Find out in this uproarious new addition to the New York Times bestselling Bad Kitty series.

Catch up with the party-loving hippos from Hippos Go Berserk! in this long-awaited picture book more than forty-five years in the making--from the one and only Sandra Boynton! Hippos have a reputation for wild parties that go on till dawn. People have even gone so far as to say that partying hippos "go berserk." Nobody knows how these rumors got started. But even if it's true (it is), it's not the whole story. Given the deep appreciation that hippos have for water, it's no wonder that your average hippopotamus seeks, finds, and offers a state of flow, no matter the situation. We have much to learn from their example. Accordingly, this helpful book follows two typical hippos as they calmly and mindfully go about their ordinary hippo day.

A New York Times Bestseller! Perfect for fans of Fletcher and the Falling Leaves, The Leaf Thief is a funny picture book that teaches kids about autumn, adapting to change, and the seasons. Squirrel loves counting the leaves on his tree--red leaves, gold leaves, orange, and more. But hold on! One of his leaves is missing! On a quest to find the missing leaf, Squirrel teams up with his good friend Bird to discover who the leaf thief could be among their forest friends. With vibrant art and captivating characters, the magic of autumn is captured beautifully on each page as readers tag along Squirrel's forest adventure. Is there truly a leaf thief afoot, or is something else going on in Squirrel's forest? A perfect exploration of change--both seasonal, and the anxiety that change sometimes causes. Bonus material explaining about the changing of the seasons. Poised to be a new fall classic. Pick up The Leaf Thief if you are looking for: A classic read for ages 4 and up Back to school books, ideal for your classroom, homeschool curriculum, and more! Seasonal and educational stories about the changing seasons

In this sweet and adventurous picture book, an unusually literary fish leaves the safety of her bowl to explore her library home for the first time. When Mr. Hughes finds a fish all alone in the library and names her Library Fish, she knows she's found her true home. Library Fish makes friends in the library and on the bookmobile, checks that books are returned, and absolutely loves story time, when she can listen to all kinds of stories and poems, meet unforgettable characters, and travel around the world and even to other planets! But one day, everything outside is covered in snow and no one comes to the library. Will Library Fish be brave enough to venture outside her fishbowl for the very first time and explore the library she calls home?

From #1 New York Times bestselling, award-winning author and illustrator Mo Willems comes a new holiday classic. It's the most wonderful time of the year--for driving a sleigh! 'Tis also the season--for driving a sleigh! Oh, and joy to the--driving a sleigh! The Pigeon has made a list and checked it once. Can his holiday dream come true? Or will The Pigeon be left out in the cold? You'll share some HO-HO-HOs and HA-HA-HAs finding out in three-time Caldecott Honoree Mo Willems' ninth Pigeon book, Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Sleigh!

Another hilarious picture book from actor Max Greenfield, author of I Don't Want To Read This Book and This Book Is Not a Present, dedicated to introverts of all ages, about the horrors of reading aloud. Nobody in the world actually enjoys reading aloud, do they? Impossible! After all, any number of terrible things could happen- you might come across a word you don't know how to pronounce. Or get distracted by a volcano eruption and lose your place. Even worse, you might accidentally hear the sound of your own voice! Actor Max Greenfield (New Girl, The Neighborhood) and New York Times bestselling illustrator Mike Lowery, the duo behind I Don't Want To Read This Book and This Book Is Not a Present, are back with another side-splitting picture book that's sure to have kids shouting for repeat read-alouds.

From Pete Oswald, New York Times bestselling illustrator of the Bad Seed series, and Tara Lazar, critically acclaimed author of 7 Ate 9, comes Flat Cat, the story of a cool cat who learns that sometimes life is about finding the best of both worlds. Flat Cat was born flat. He wasn't squashed by an out-of-control ice cream truck, or smushed in a waffle iron. He was just flat. This slick, sly cat could stray and roam anywhere he pleased, keen and unseen. And wouldn't you know it, Flat Cat liked it just like that. That is until one day, when Flat Cat accidentally fell splish splosh right in the wash. And when he emerged from the dryer, Flat Cat wasn't flat at all. He was adorably puffy and downright fluffy! And Flat Cat wasn't sure how he felt about that. From acclaimed author Tara Lazar and brought to life by #1 New York Times bestselling illustrator Pete Oswald, this is a hilariously quirky and irreverent story that is sure to appeal to fans of Pete the Cat!

Curious minds are rewarded with curious answers in a fantastical bedtime book by Mac Barnett and Isabelle Arsenault. Why is the ocean blue? What is the rain? What happened to the dinosaurs? It might be time for bed, but one child is too full of questions about the world to go to sleep just yet. Little ones and their parents will be charmed and delighted as a patient father offers up increasingly creative responses to his child's nighttime wonderings. Any child who has ever asked "Why?" -- and any parent who has attempted an explanation -- will recognize themselves in this sweet storybook for dreamers who are looking for answers beyond "Just because."

Fancy Nancy takes a class trip to the aquarium and enjoys all the incredible sea creatures. But when she gets to the jellyfish exhibit, she's faced with an old fear and a fantastic idea!

Celebrate the 100th day of school with Fancy Nancy, in this sweet and thoughtful I Can Read Story from New York Times bestselling team Jane O'Connor and Robin Preiss Glasser. Perfect for back-to-school! With the 100th day of school just around the corner, Nancy finds herself utterly stumped. She can't think of anything exciting, special, or imaginative enough to bring in to class to commemorate the day. Just as Nancy begins to lose hope, she finds inspiration from an unexpected source--and learns that even sad events can bring with them a glimmer of beauty. Fancy Nancy: The 100th Day of School is a Level One I Can Read book, which means it's perfect for children learning to sound out words and sentences. The back matter features a list of the rich vocabulary words that are used throughout the story along with their definition.

Nancy is thrilled to be making scrumptious cupcakes for the bake sale, but she will have to remember to follow all of Mom's directions. Aligned to Common Core Standards and correlated to state standards. Leveled Readers is an imprint of Spotlight, a division of ABDO.

Fancy Nancy fans of all ages will love this sweet story about learning to respect both the Earth and your family, in this I Can Read story from New York Times bestselling team Jane O'Connor and Robin Preiss Glasser! Learning to respect the environment is no small task, especially if you want to celebrate Earth Day every day of the week! Luckily, Nancy is on hand to make sure Mom, Dad, and her little sister do their part in being green--even if she has to keep reminding them. Nancy knows that she's helping her family do something very important, but will she take her enthusiasm for the environment a step too far? Fancy Nancy: Every Day Is Earth Day is a Level One I Can Read book, which means it's perfect for children learning to sound out words and sentences. The back matter features a list of the rich vocabulary words that are used throughout the story along with their definition.

Can you make a duck blink? Probably not. But you can try, in this irreverent and hilarious staring contest between you and a duck that never, ever blinks. Do you see that duck over there? That duck doesn't blink. Even if you look away then look back real quick. Even if you tell it a really funny joke! Perfect for fans of interactive stories like Do Not Lick This Book and Duck! Rabbit!, The Duck Never Blinks will have kids and adults alike bawling with laughter as they spend time with this one very sly duck.

It's a race to do homework--in space! But first, there's a spaceship jam. Then there's the moon detour, the Mars alien exploration, and a stop on the gravity-defying International Space Station. And that's just the beginning! Henry and Ali want to get their homework done--they really do! But how are they supposed to study the solar system when they seem to be swept up in an endless series of interstellar surprises? From Davide Cali and Benjamin Chaud, the author-illustrator team behind I Didn't Do My Homework Because . . ., comes an action-packed, entertaining tale about trying to get your homework done, whether you're in--or out--of this world!

Combining DK's four-level reading program with the world's most beloved Star Wars character, this book will help kids learn how to read--and learn to love reading. Meet Grogu and his many friends in this high-quality, fun, nonfiction reader - carefully levelled to help children progress. Learn more about the cute child, Grogu, from Star Wars: The Mandalorian Seasons One and Two, and from Star Wars: The Book of Boba Fett. Take a trip through the galaxy and see it through his eyes as Grogu goes on his fantastic journey, while finding out more about his amazing allies, including the Mandalorian, Din Djarin; Luke Skywalker; and Ahsoka Tano. The engaging text has been carefully levelled using Lexile so that children are set up to succeed. Exciting Star Wars images, clear vocabulary, and a fun quiz will test young readers and help them in building their reading ability as they learn about this galaxy, far, far away.

A new generation of children love Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood, inspired by the classic series Mister Rogers' Neighborhood! Daniel Tiger learns to swim in this sweet 8x8 storybook based on an episode of the show! Daniel is so excited to take his first swim class...until he gets close to the water--then he starts to get nervous. Suddenly, swimming seems more scary than exciting. With his swim instructor's help, can Daniel overcome his fear of water? © 2023 The Fred Rogers Company

Plucky activist Rocket returns in another inspiring picture book, rallying her community to SPEAK UP! to save their town library. When Rocket finds out that her town's library is closing, she knows something must be done. Inspired by the activism of Rosa Parks, Rocket rallies support from her peers, and together they lead a peaceful protest that spreads awareness and raises enough money to save their beloved library. Perfect for fans of Rocket Says Look Up!, Rocket Says Clean Up!, and Ada Twist, Scientist, this book is for any youngster--and parent--interested in community activism. Rocket Says Speak Up! will inspire readers of all ages to take a stand for what they believe in and will teach them that one small person can make a BIG difference. Nathan Bryon and Dapo Adeola's Rocket Says Look Up! was honored as a Chicago Public Library Best of the Best Book!

At the start of things, the elders say, the universe was hushed and still. The moon alone shone bright and round in the star-speckled dark of the sky. David Álvarez is one of the most extraordinary artists working today. His black-and-white illustrations have gained fame in his home country of Mexico and around the world. Here, in Ancient Night (Noche Antigua), David displays his immense talent with full-color illustrations for the first time. Ancient Night is a twist on two Nahuatl traditions: the rabbit which the Feathered Serpent placed on the moon, and Yaushu, the Lord Opossum who ruled the earth before humans came, and who stole fire from the gods to create the sun. Award-winning author David Bowles has written a poetic text - and carefully researched backmatter - to accompany David's lush illustrations and story. The book will be published simultaneously in English and Spanish editions, giving young readers everywhere the chance to savor this ancient tale in its most beautiful format possible.

From musician and author/artist Jonty Howley comes a lively celebration of friendship and music, perfect for a gentle nighttime read. The story comes with a link to an original song by the author! Snap! Poom-poom! Jingle-Jangle! Three talented animals--a crocodile playing a snare drum, a big brown bear with a bass, and a weasel with a banjo--form a traveling band to sing and play for the other animals in the woods. From spring to fall, they always attract an eager crowd. But when winter comes, the animals in the audience go off to bed and the band searches for a new stage. Skipping their own bedtime, the musical trio parades through the forest, moving on to the next performance until--Snore! Phew! Grumble-grumble!--even the band falls asleep. A rhythmic text interspersed with onomatopoeia make the story in The Animal Song nicely noisy until the very end when--shh!--everyone is asleep. Featuring a website with original music composed by the author/illustrator, this book is perfect for helping young readers to get their sillies out right before it's time to sleep!

From critically acclaimed author Lucy Ruth Cummins and Pete Oswald, New York Times bestselling illustrator of The Sour Grape, comes a rhyming bedtime tale featuring brand new picture book character Sleepy Sheepy, a sheep who is definitely NOT sleepy! Sleepy Sheepy was not sleepy But it was time for bed (At least, that's what the clock said.) But Sleepy Sheepy would not sleepy. He was wired. And absolutely not tired! In fact, he was WIDE-AWAKE. Despite his name, Sleepy Sheepy is NOT sleepy. He'd much rather build with blocks or knit socks than go to sleep. Will Ma and Pa Sheepy ever get their sheepy to go to sleepy? From acclaimed author Lucy Ruth Cummins and brought to life by New York Times bestselling illustrator Pete Oswald (The Bad Seed, The Good Egg, The Smart Cookie, The Sour Grape), Sleepy Sheepy is a hilarious bedtime read-aloud that will appeal to little lambs everywhere.

This lyrical, gorgeously illustrated picture book in verse follows a litter of baby wolf pups in the wild through their first full lunar cycle. Deep in the forest, Mama Wolf gives birth to an adorable litter of pups under a sky full of moon. Over the next month, the pups will open their eyes, stretch out their tiny paws, and playfully explore the world around them-all under the watchful eyes of Mama Wolf and the rest of the pack. And before long, these pups will be big enough to yip at the full moon themselves! With stunning artwork and a gently rhyming text full of fascinating wolf facts, this ideal bedtime or storytime read is perfect for anyone who has ever heard the call of the wild.

A uniquely humorous approach to sadness, this picture book helps kids understand this big, heavy feeling while encouraging mindfulness and exploring what it means to be a good friend. Rabbit is SO excited to go fishing with Bear. But Bear's not feeling up to it. . . . He's feeling low, like his pocket is full of sads that are weighing him down. Although Bear doesn't know why he's feeling this way, Rabbit is sure she can fix it! Rabbit looks to the internet for advice, but none of the self-help tips seem to help. The friends try meditating, healthy eating, even a new hobby, only to learn that when it comes to having the sads, there's no easy fix-except, maybe, friendship. This tender picture book is the perfect primer to help children understand the heavy-hearted sadness that can come out of nowhere. And more importantly, it helps kids and adults be better listeners and more supportive companions to friends dealing with tough feelings. A must have for homes and classrooms alike!

The bond between a child and his grandmother grows as they tend her garden together. A young boy spends his mornings with his beloved Baba, his grandmother. She doesn't speak much English, but they connect through gestures, gardening, eating, and walking to school together. Marked by memories of wartime scarcity, Baba cherishes food, and the boy learns to do the same. Eventually, Baba needs to move in with the boy and his parents, and he has the chance to care for her as she's always cared for him. Inspired by memories from poet Jordan Scott's childhood, with beautiful, dreamlike illustrations by award-winning illustrator Sydney Smith, My Baba's Garden is a deeply personal story that evokes universal emotions. Like Scott and Smith's previous collaboration I Talk Like a River, winner of the Boston Globe-Horn Book Award, My Baba's Garden lends wistful appreciation to cherished time with family. A Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection

A hilarious picture book featuring a dog-loving kingdom and the most fabulous, far-out fairy DOGmother ever! Here is a Cinderella story like no other. When Cinderella wishes for a fairy godmother, she's not expecting one that barks! And this fairy dogmother has a different agenda. Yes, Cinderella will have a new dress, but made of a cozy dog blanket. Yes, they will go to the ball, but they will run there and chase squirrels along the way. There's nothing like a canine companion to get a girl out of the house and her mind off her troubles! Yes, indeed, dogs do make everything better--and are a reminder that you don't need "happily ever after" when you have the joy of now. Readers will get a kick out of this retelling with its lovable cast of characters and refreshing ending.

#1 New York Times Bestselling and award-winning author of The Undefeated, Kwame Alexander, pens a powerful picture book that tells the story of American slavery through the voice of a teacher struggling to help her students understand its harrowing history. From the fireside tales in an African village, through the unspeakable passage across the Atlantic, to the backbreaking work in the fields of the South, this is a story of a people's struggle and strength, horror and hope. This is the story of American slavery, a story that needs to be told and understood by all of us. A testament to the resilience of the African American community, this book honors what has been and envisions what is to be. With stunning mixed-media illustrations by newcomer Dare Coulter, this is a potent book for those who want to speak the truth. Perfect for family sharing, the classroom, and homeschooling.

In a rhythmic celebration of sport and play, four-time Grand Slam champion and tennis superstar Naomi Osaka shares key steps to becoming a true champ, including being kind, working as a team, doing your best, and most importantly, having fun. At Play Academy, We love to move. That's why we play. We are champs and we play all day! Inspired by Osaka's game-changing program Play Academy, which instills confidence in and provides resources to young girls through sports, The Way Champs Play is an exciting and inspiring anthem for all kids in and out of the classroom who want to PLAY ALL DAY! Use this book to: Discuss different types of sports. Talk with children about good sports(wo)manship. Encourage kids to engage in sport and play for their overall health and happiness. And more!

From the bestselling author of The Quiet Book comes an honest and touching new picture book about the ups and downs of friendship. Walter and Xavier are best friends. They do everything together! But then...quietly...slowly...Xavier becomes best friends with someone else. Walter goes from feeling hurt and left out to feeling confused and angry to feeling just plain lonely. Until one morning he wakes up feeling a tiny bit hopeful. That day, while out for a hike by himself, he meets Ollie. Could this be the beginning of a new friendship? Sometimes best friends aren't forever, and that's okay. Because there might be a new pal waiting just around the corner.

Fine artist Sam Winston, cocreator of the New York Times best-selling A Child of Books, celebrates the power of stories and written languages--and the imperative to preserve them. Once there were many stories in the world. There were stories with sunsets and wonderful tales filled with fairies and dinosaurs. But one day, a story decided that it was the best, the most important story ever. It called itself the One and started to consume every other story it came across. The One ate stories made of seas and others full of dogs. Soon it seemed that the One was all there was . . . or was it? Inspired by the Endangered Alphabets project, aimed at preserving cultures by sharing their unique scripts, author-illustrator Sam Winston uses writing systems such as cuneiform and Tibetan, Egyptian hieroglyphs and ogham to illustrate this book in his signature typography-based style, using symbols and letters that have relayed the world's stories over the centuries.

For anyone who has ever craved sleep--and anyone too full of energy to settle down--a comedy from Bob Shea, creator of the popular Dinosaur vs. series, and singular illustrator Jarvis. It's sleepy time for Lion and Penguin. Correction: it should be sleepy time for Lion and Penguin, but Lion's eyes aren't tired, and his ears would like a story. Penguin, however, is tired and nods off into sweet candy dreams--until a noise wakes him. "Oh, are you awake?" asks Lion sweetly, seated before a drum set. "Let's have that story, then!" "Not now. It is time to close your eyes and dream dreams." And so it goes, with an ever-more-disgruntled Penguin trying to nod off while an exuberant Lion innocently practices his drumming, bounces on his squeaky trampoline, and munches on his crunchy chips. Will Penguin need to resort to extreme measures to get his friend to sleep, or has the answer been there all along? Bob Shea's signature wit, delivered only in dialogue, and Jarvis's unassuming, retro art and knack for visual humor are sure to delight young readers--and their caregivers--whether at naptime, bedtime, or anytime.

A joyful and fun read-along tale of one family's quest to find the Rainbowsaurus, featuring lots of colorful creatures. A joyful and fun read-along tale of one family's quest to find the Rainbowsaurus, featuring lots of colorful creatures. We're following a rainbow to find the Rainbowsaurus. We're following a rainbow. Would you like to join us? Join two dads and their three children as they set off on an adventure to find the Rainbowsaurus. On their way, they meet animals that are all the colors of the rainbow who all want to find the Rainbowsaurus too. From the author and illustrator of the Mr Panda series and The Queen's Hat collection, comes this instantly classic-feeling adventure. A perfect story to read at bedtime again and again.

Beautifully illustrated picture book by an award-winning author-illustrator. A little egg falls out of its nest and goes in search of its mommy. Can it find her? He asks lots of other animals for help--but eventually Daddy finds the egg and takes it back to the nest to hatch into a beautiful swan.

Join Pete the Kitty as he visits the three bears in this I Can Read story from New York Times bestselling team Kimberly and James Dean. Once upon a time, there was a kitty named Pete who came upon a house in the forest. He goes in, eats pizza, plays guitar, and falls asleep. But what happens when three bears come home? Beginner readers will love this new Pete-tastic spin on the beloved fairy tale Goldilocks and the Three Bears! This My First I Can Read book is carefully crafted using basic language, word repetition, sight words, and sweet illustrations--which means it's perfect for shared reading with emergent readers. The active, engaging My First I Can Read stories have appealing plots and lovable characters, encouraging children to continue their reading journey.

Mo Willems, #1 New York Times bestselling, award-winning author-illustrator, tackles a BIG concept in this hilarious nonfiction picture book about the relationship between size and scale. Are YOU big? A simple question sends readers to the far reaches of the universe. From an average-size kid . . . to a hot air balloon . . . to a storm cloud . . . to the M100 Galaxy, size is a matter of perspective. Bold text, expressive art, and real-world science come together in this original Mo Willems STEAM-based, early-learning concept book.

From Geisel Award-winning author Greg Pizzoli comes a hilarious picture book about a duck who learns just how lucky she is. Susan the duck has the worst luck. Her rollerskates are two sizes too big. She's lost her favorite marble. And she's run out of pickles. But with each unfortunate discovery, Wolf shows up with a gift she's won. Her luck has turned around . . . hasn't it? Come see just how lucky Susan is, in this slyly funny story about finding luck when you least expect it. Geisel Award-winning creator Greg Pizzoli delivers another rib-tickling picturebook that will have kids howling with laughter.

Flubby, the cute but aloof cat, will not play outside in the snow! It's snowing, and Kami wants to take Flubby outside to play. But Flubby doesn't like the snow--it's too cold! Can Kami find a way to convince the cat to enjoy the winter wonderland? The charming illustrations, simple text, and comic-like panels by J. E. Morris, author-illustrator of the Maud the Koala books, make this a unique format with a narrative style perfect for storytime and progressing readers.

A rollicking read-aloud featuring a wide cast of characters coming to the school nurse for help with their hilariously dramatic bumps, runny noses, and many other colorful complaints! Kids at Bluebell don't feel well-- Gus is sad, and Benny fell. Splinters, lice, a paper cut, throw-up, bumps, a hungry gut. Charlee's tooth won't wiggle free! But there's someone to go to--Miss Peatree! The big feelings and minor dilemmas of elementary school are no match for this hilarious, delightful cast of characters and the untiring compassion of Miss Peatree. One after another, students pile into her office to get fixed up--whether they need a Band-Aid for a bumped knee or a solution for a touch of homesickness. Even the principal visits with an urgent paper cut! With irresistible, hilarious rhyme and endlessly lively art, Chelsea Lin Wallace and Alison Farrell showcase the humor of elementary school's many little problems and the gentle good sense that puts everything right.

Based on a true story, the author humorously recounts the time his grandfather got stranded with a friend on Surtsey, a brand new volcanic island in Iceland. The adventurers face epic challenges like molten lava, melted eyeglasses and scant supplies before finally getting rescued. Graphic novel-like layouts and spirited text invite readers to search for the one thing that's not actually true in this thrilling yet light-hearted tale of adventure. Endnotes include information about volcanoes, Icelandic culture and Norse mythology.

Lila Greer is full of worries. Even the smallest things-from cabbages to cardboard-fill her with dread and What Ifs. So when her family makes a big change-moving to a new town-the worry and What Ifs only grow. What if things go wrong? What if no one likes her? At first, Lila feels right to be worried. In her new home, everything is strange. The new kids, the new smells. Lila feels alone and invisible. But there's one person who sees her: Lila's teacher, Ms. Kern. Through some creativity, blackboard erasers, and-most of all-kindness, Ms. Kern finds a way to make Lila feel welcome and open to new experiences. A lesson that will resonate with Lila long after second grade. Follow Iggy Peck, Rosie Revere, Ada Twist, Sofia Valdez, Aaron Slater, and Lila Greer on all of their adventures! Add the picture books, chapter books, and activity books starring The Questioneers by Andrea Beaty and David Roberts to your family library today.

The Grinch is BACK and ready to prove to the residents of Who-ville that he's changed. This heartwarming sequel is written and illustrated in the style of Dr. Seuss's beloved holiday classic How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Grinch had been patiently waiting all year, To celebrate Christmas and bring the Whos cheer, And to show every Who he was DIFFERENT now. "I've changed!" thought the Grinch, "And I'll prove it! But HOW?" A year has passed since the Grinch stole Christmas from Who-ville. Now eager to prove to the Whos that his heart has grown to LOVE the holiday, the Grinch devises a plan to win Who-ville's Christmas Crown by making the largest, most spectacular Christmas tree the Whos have ever seen! But when things don't go as planned, the Grinch's heart turns ice cold, and he threatens to leave Who-ville for good...until one small, special Who reminds him that Christmas is NOT about winning. Grow your heart three sizes MORE with this sequel to the timeless picture book How the Grinch Stole Christmas! Featuring a foil-enhanced jacket and full-color illustrations rendered in the iconic style of the original, this new story makes a splendid gift and a must-have addition to the libraries of Grinch fans of all ages!

We all know that Santa Claus is one cool dude! But how is he as a houseguest? Find out in this hilarious picture book by bestselling author Derrick Barnes! The number one thing on Monte and Mabel's Christmas wish list is the chance to hang out with Santa Claus. So when his sleigh breaks down in their yard as he's finishing up his last delivery, they couldn't be more delighted--Santa's gonna stay with them while he waits for spare parts to be delivered! It's a dream come true . . . or is it? It turns out Santa doesn't have a lot of experience being a houseguest, and likes to rock out late at night and swigs spaghetti sauce from the jar. But when he messes with Dad's motorcycle and Mabel's computer tablet, he's gone a step too far and the whole family agrees--Santa's gotta go! But how on earth do you kick out Santa Claus? Readers will get a kick out of this hilarious holiday tale by New York Times bestselling author Derrick Barnes, with its funny reminder to be careful what you wish for and to remember that sharing the holiday spirit can take a lot of goodwill.

Inspired by acclaimed chef Eric Adjepong's own childhood, Sankofa is the powerful story of a young boy's culinary journey 400 years into the past to reconnect with his African roots and find his own place in America. This thoughtful picture book also includes a recipe for jollof rice. What if home was a place you've never been? For Kofi, a first-generation Ghanaian American boy, home is a country called Ghana. But it's a place he's never been. When tasked to bring a dish that best represents his family's culture to school for a potluck lunch, Kofi is torn. With the help of his Nanabarima (grandfather), Kofi learns the hardship and resilience his family has endured--and how food has always been an integral part their story and culture. Sankofa is a reminder that food can transport you to a place called home--even if you've never been.

From the author of the New York Times bestselling Can I Be Your Dog? series comes a picture book about a snazzy Christmas ornament who tries to find the tree on which he can shine the brightest. Otto is an ornament. He's glittery, he's colourful, he's full of Christmas pizzazz! Otto wants to be at the top of the tree, not in the middle with all of the regular ornaments! Doesn't he deserve to shine at the top? Will Otto be able to find the tree he dreams of and learn about kindness and chosen family along the way? Full of Troy Cummings's clever puns, wordplay, and humour, wrapped up with a heartfelt message. An original, comical, and festive tale from a New York Times bestselling author-illustrator that should be placed under every Christmas tree! Perfect for families, teachers, and librarians.

Nancy will have to do some fancy footwork to resolve her predicament in this latest Fancy Nancy story from the beloved New York Times bestselling author-illustrator team Jane O'Connor and Robin Preiss Glasser. Much to her dismay, Nancy has been chosen for the relay team in this year's Field Day at school. Despite her many natural talents, Nancy isn't much of a runner. She's afraid of letting her team down--especially after finding out that an unkind (that's another word for mean) girl in her class is on the team too. With a little help from her dad, Nancy tries her best, stands up for herself, and makes a new friend. Fancy Nancy and the Mean Girl is a Level One I Can Read book, which means it's perfect for children learning to sound out words and sentences. The back matter features a list of the rich vocabulary words that are used throughout the story along with their definition.

Picture Day is just about the most important day of the year, and Nancy has her outfit all figured out. That leaves only one thing--picking a hairstyle! Nancy considers the options. Pigtails A bun Long and loose Then Nancy gets a brain wave, and she reaches for the scissors. . . . Join Nancy in this comical and endearing addition to the Fancy Nancy I Can Read series, with a list of fancy words on the last page.

Laugh along as Nancy and her friends do everything backward in this Fancy Nancy I Can Read story from New York Times bestselling team Jane O'Connor and Robin Preiss Glasser! Why is everything topsy-turvy today? It's Backward Day at Fancy Nancy's school! Everyone is dressed for the occasion. When Ms. Glass can't think of any more backward ideas for the class, Nancy comes up with the perfect way to celebrate the day. Fancy Nancy: It's Backward Day! is a Level One I Can Read book, which means it's perfect for children learning to sound out words and sentences. The back matter features a list of the rich vocabulary words that are used throughout the story along with their definition.

When Nancy's first loose tooth starts wiggling at home, she's worried it will fall out before class and she won't get the special tooth-holder necklace from the school nurse. Aligned to Common Core Standards and correlated to state standards. Leveled Readers is an imprint of Spotlight, a division of ABDO.

This rhythmic read-aloud about sharing by an award-winning author and a Caldecott medalist features a series of hilariously selfish forest animals. In a tall, tall tree, at the tip-tippy top, hangs a single red apple... Along skirts Mouse. "An apple!" she squeaks, "How divine! When it tumbles to the ground, it'll all be mine!" And so it goes, for Hare, Fox, Deer, and Bear, who each can't wait to get their hands on the apple. Soon the wind huffs and puffs, the branch snips and snaps, and down the apple falls. Only one shiny red apple for five furry creatures? What are they to do?! Here is a read-aloud picture book, perfect for storytime, that will have kids repeating the refrain "Mine!"... complete with an ending that celebrates sharing and is sure to surprise!

It's panda-monium in this rollicking nonfiction picture book about bears habits, habitats, and more. Perfect for the curious cub in your house! Hello! I am Brown Bear, and in this book, you'll get to learn about ME--the only bear in the forest! Hold on a minute. Polar Bear here, and I am the only bear in this book. Though I live in the Arctic, not a forest. Hey now, Spectacled Bear here, and we are bearly-scratching the surface. There are tons of great bears to learn and laugh with in this fact-filled picture book! New York Times bestselling author Joan Holub teams up with award-winning illustrator Laurie Keller for a paw-sitively hilarious nonfiction picture book about bear classification!

Fans of the hit I Don't Want to Be a Frog will hop with joy for this fourth book in the series-a hilarious and clever twist on the classic childhood issue of not wanting to go to bed. Frog is excited about autumn and the coming of winter. But when Owl informs him that frogs hibernate till spring, Frog is upset at missing out on all the snowy fun. In this hysterically funny twist on the classic "I don't want to go to bed" dilemma, Frog comes up with all kinds of reasons why he's not going to sleep through winter, until he devises a clever way to convince his friends to come along for the ride. Featuring the beloved young frog character I Don't Want to Be a Frog and his cast of zany animal friends, this new story is sure to bring a smile to every kid who's ever protested at bedtime. And parents will appreciate a bold new twist on a timeless childhood topic. It's another surefire crowd pleaser and perfect read-aloud. And look for the other books starring Frog- I Don't Want to Be a Frog, I Don't Want to Be Big, and There's Nothing to Do!.

A child's first encounter with the sea leaves them feeling small and scared. What could be hiding in the dark depths below? When the family visits a lake and a river, the child's fear of water gradually starts to ebb as curiosity begins to flow. But playing in the water still doesn't feel right. Mama says there is no rush to try swimming, and that the water will wait. Maybe next time? This gently powerful story about taking your time and listening to yourself, with lyrical words from Emily Joof, reminds us that it's okay for progress to be gradual. Bold and dynamic illustrations from Matilda Ruta bring the journey to life with warmth and vibrancy. A perfect book for any child who is feeling nervous about new experiences.

A dad and daughter take pretending to an adorable extreme in this funny book that's perfect for Father's Day. It's easy to be a tree. Just pretend your arms are branches, your body is a trunk, and your legs are roots. Don't move, even if a bird makes a nest on your head, a squirrel hides an acorn in your pocket, and a spider builds a web under your arm. It's OK: Trees don't mind those things. Or so says the little girl who persuades her father to be a tree all day long, no matter what, even in the rain! This silly and sweet picture book will inspire all kinds of imaginative play and is a tribute to parents who will do just about anything for their kids.

A brave little artist goes on an epic adventure to share her creativity with the world in this picture book from New York Times bestselling author-illustrator Ed Vere. It's an inspiring exploration of the creative spirit, perfect for fans of What Do You Do with an Idea? and The Dot. Creative young children will see themselves and the world around them in a fresh light in this charming story about an artistic soul. Through setbacks and triumphs, our young hero adds color and life to a drab gray city, bringing beauty to those who live there. It's a journey that reminds us that it's okay to color outside the lines: Art is full of heart! The Artist is a perfect gift for creative kids, graduates, or anyone setting out on a new path, encouraging them to face life's obstacles with a positive outlook.

From the New York Times bestselling illustrator and former ballet soloist Robin Preiss Glasser comes a story about a young ballet dancer whose boundless determination makes her dream of dancing with the American Ballet Theatre come true. Gloria has a very big dream- to be admitted to the summer program at the American Ballet Theatre. The day of the audition arrives, and Gloria couldn't be more excited! She can't wait to dance and show the world what she can do. In the ABT studios, she gets a peek into a glorious room filled with pointe shoes, ballet dancers getting fitted for tutus, and an awe-inspiring company rehearsal. She can barely believe her eyes! During the audition, Gloria is determined to make an impression by pushing herself to be her best. But when she falls in front of the teacher, she wonders if her determination will be enough. Robin Preiss Glasser, the bestselling illustrator of the internationally renowned Fancy Nancy series, brings exquisite and authentic details to every illustration as only a former professional ballet soloist can do. This story about a determined dancer who is working hard to achieve her dream is sure to thrill ballet students everywhere.

Confident, empowered sisters and best friends are celebrated in this read-together picture book celebrating sisterly love and joy. From the author of the Happy Hair series, which promotes self-love, positivity, and acceptance. Perfect together! Always and forever! My sister and me! Beautiful Black and Brown girls with gorgeous natural hairstyles are the stars of this vibrant, rhythmic picture book. With encouraging words of unity and support on each page, it's a great read-aloud to promote confidence and self-esteem among girls of all ages.

Library Fish returns in this charming picture book about the unusually literary fish learning to do what everyone around her loves--read! Library Fish is very happy in her bowl on Mr. Hughes the librarian's desk. From there, she listens to story time and watches Mr. Hughes teach children the alphabet. He says the alphabet is made of letters, letters make sounds, blending those sounds together makes words, and words make stories. Library Fish wants to read, too! She starts jumping out of her bowl to practice when the library closes at night. Can Library Fish become a reader all on her own?

A hilarious picture book featuring a dog-loving kingdom and the most fabulous, far-out fairy DOGmother ever! Here is a Cinderella story like no other. When Cinderella wishes for a fairy godmother, she's not expecting one that barks! And this fairy dogmother has a different agenda. Yes, Cinderella will have a new dress, but made of a cozy dog blanket. Yes, they will go to the ball, but they will run there and chase squirrels along the way. There's nothing like a canine companion to get a girl out of the house and her mind off her troubles! Yes, indeed, dogs do make everything better-and are a reminder that you don't need "happily ever after" when you have the joy of now. Readers will get a kick out of this retelling with its lovable cast of characters and refreshing ending.

From Caldecott and Newbery Honoree Grace Lin and bestselling author Kate Messner comes a modern folktale about the joy of reading. Once upon a time, there was a girl. She went to a place alive with colors, where even the morning dew was warm. Alice loves to imagine herself in the magical pages of her favorite book. So when it flaps its pages and invites her in, she is swept away to a world of wonder and adventure, riding camels in the desert, swimming under the sea with colorful fish, floating in outer space, and more! But when her imaginative journey comes to an end, she yearns for the place she loves best of all. Paired with vibrant illustrations, this lyrical, expressive story invites the reader to savor each page and indulge in the power of imagination.

Told in the same fourth-wall-breaking style of B. J. Novak's The Book With No Pictures, How to Talk Like a Bear is the perfect how-to guide to speaking fluent bear. Want to learn how to speak Bear? Well, you came to the right place. It's far more than just growling and roaring (a common misconception). There's a lot more to it. It's very easy to accidentally say the wrong phrase when you're trying to get your point across. For example, saying "ROOOAARR" instead of "ROAAARRRR" is the difference between wanting a sandwich and wanting to get into beekeeping. This silly romp is perfect for read-alouds and is the exact right gift for anyone looking for a laugh (or looking to learn a new language).

The first picture book by bestselling novelist Emma Straub, author of This Time Tomorrow, this is a joyous, inventive, adorably illustrated read-aloud that will inspire kids to see ordinary objects in a whole new way. Some people think hats are fancy things you can buy at a dressy store, but that's just the tip of the iceberg. In this book, acorns and raspberries are snug hats for your fingers, and an empty pudding cup is a good hat for a stuffed bear. Pajama pants make dangly hats, books can be dramatic hats, and bubbles make very fine hats as well (if temporary). Readers will be delighted to discover that anything can be a hat if you believe it is. Hats are everywhere you look!

Two Caldecott honorees-and real-life best friends- team up to illustrate a story of friendship from bestselling author Julie Fogliano. Like the two stars of this story, illustrators Molly Idle and Juana Martinez-Neal know that differences only make a good friendship stronger. In this bouncy, rhyming story, two best friends think about all the little things that don't matter- and the big things that really, really do. Mostly I care that you're you and I'm me, and I care that we're us, and I care that we're we. With each artist designing and drawing one character, and collaborating on the scenery and details, Molly Idle and Juana Martinez-Neal transformed this sweet story into a celebration of friendship- including their own- and a unique artistic vision. Working remotely, they swapped drawings across the country, using a limited palette of teal and yellow over graphite. As artwork passed back and forth between their mailboxes, childhood versions of each artist came to life and came together on the page into one unified creation. Award-winning author Julie Fogliano's rhythmic rhymes bring it all together, expressing the unconditional love any best friend can relate to.

Her Majesty is back in this hilarious and quirky picture book follow-up to Isabella Kung's No Fuzzball! Queen NoFuzzball is the ruler of her home and she enjoys basking in the adoration of her subjects. But a new kitten, Snowball, has arrived to her queendom. Fuzzball fears that this new stranger will be a threat to her throne, but then realizes it could be opportunity to train an heir. Could Snowball shape up to be the perfect princess that Queen NoFuzzball is looking for, or will Snowball just be nothing but a royal pain? Young readers will fall in love with Kung's irresistible and adorable illustrations that are paired with funny, lovable characters. This picture book is perfect for cat and pet lovers everywhere!