books

by Jamie York

This book is both a curriculum guide for middle school math and a source book for great ideas that enrich any teacher’s math lessons.

Included in this Source Book for Middle School Math:

• • A math curriculum guideline for grades 6-8.
  • An essential resource for use with our grades 6-8 workbooks.
  • Contains explanations of all concepts found in the workbooks.
  • Ideas for all of the Waldorf math “main lessons” in grades 6-8.
  • Includes an 11-page Introduction for the Teacher.

Who can use this book?  Most of the author’s teaching experience is within the Waldorf school system.  Yet this source book can be effectively used by any teacher or homeschooling parent who wishes to teach meaningful, age-appropriate math.  The explanations in this book are also useful for parents (or tutors) who are helping their children in a math class that uses the curriculum laid out in this book.

Why this curriculum?  When I started teaching at a Waldorf school, I was surprised to find that there were no textbooks.  I was expected to create my own materials.  This newfound freedom was both exciting and daunting.  I proceeded to research what was happening at other Waldorf schools regarding math curriculum.  I spent a great deal of time creating my own worksheets.  My original question (“What should I teach?”) was soon transformed into, “What topics would best help in developing the thinking and imagination of my middle school students?”

This book is intended to share with others what I have discovered and developed during this journey.

While most of the material is not overly difficult, much of it is foreign, even for math majors.  In writing this book, I have assumed that the reader may be weak in math.  I hope that with some effort, even the most difficult topic is understandable.

A teacher’s guide for middle school math, including:

The challenge of teaching math today
Practical advice and thoughts on teaching math
How can we ensure that our students are prepared for high school and beyond?

6th Grade topics:   Fractions   •   decimals   •   percents   •   mental math and math tricks
divisibility   •   casting out nines   •   exponents and roots   •   prime factorization
converting repeating decimals to fractions   •   and more.

7th Grade topics:  The metric system   •   percents   •   rates   •   ratios   •   irrational numbers   •   the square root algorithm   •   basic geometry   •   and more.

8th Grade topics:  Pythagorean Theorem, exponential growth, proportions, area and volume, dimensional analysis (unit conversions), basic algebra skills, and more.

Detailed explanations of main lessons and less well-known topics, including:

Business math   •   The golden ratio   •   Number bases
Exchange rates   •   The Fibonacci sequence   •   Binary and ASCII code
Mental math & math tricks   •   Gauss’s summation formula   •   Computer algorithms
Converting repeating decimals   •   Angle theorems & proofs   •   Archimedes’ ratio
Geometric drawing   •   The four ratios of π   •   Platonic solids
Euclidean constructions   •   The square root algorithm
…and much more!

You should also consider signing up for…
Our Grade-Specific Online Workshop: The Art of Teaching 6^th Grade Math
Our Grade-Specific Online Workshop: The Art of Teaching 7^th Grade Math
Our Grade-Specific Online Workshop: The Art of Teaching 8^th Grade Math

Teachers’ Reviews of: A Source Book for Teaching Middle School Math:

I’ve been teaching many grade levels K-8 over the last ten years in mainstream education (five in Waldorf education) and have had my hands on many math curricula that were adequate in teaching the basic concepts in the different mathematical strands. But I always found that the programs were lacking in creating lasting understanding, enthusiasm and confidence with numbers.  I began working with Making Math Meaningful in my fifth grade classroom at Madrone Trail Public Waldorf school in Oregon, and my students and I became so interested in what they might find out about how numbers worked!  This carried into the junior high years, where many student who don’t have a natural affinity for numbers often become discouraged and uninterested in math. Through daily practice with the Making Math Meaningful’s workbooks, my students developed an amazing fluency and knack for the nature of numbers.  !00% of the my students have met their math benchmarks for our state in 6th and 7th grade. This is only one measure of the efficacy of a math program. Through using this curriculum, my students are more creative in their problem solving and critical thinking, have cultivated good work habits and have come to find that each of them are able to learn the magic of mathematics. Most importantly perhaps, all of my students, regardless of ability, have come face to face with math problems that have challenged them to work and rework until a solution is found, and it is this skill that has helped prepare a group of 8th graders who will begin high school with a strong knowledge of self. They have developed a set of characteristics that will help them push forward when they’re in doubt and start working through an issue that seems to have no solution in sight.  Jamie York has managed to prepare a math curriculum that supports the development of the whole child.  It can be used by main stream public educators as well as in the Waldorf middle school math classroom, and it has become the must-have element of our school’s very successful math program.
— Alyssum Barber, Madrone Trail Waldorf Charter School, OR, USA

I am just completing my third Waldorf class teaching cycle and have used the Making Math Meaningful curriculum guides and workbooks for this cycle. My present eighth graders have mathematical thinking skills and basic arithmetic skills that surpass my former two classes. The grades six, seven, eight workbooks are challenging for me as a class teacher and definitely for my students, but it is a delight to experience the students’ enthusiasm when they “get it” with a new concept or remember a solution method from a previous year. I taught using more main stream math textbooks in my previous classes and, while my students went on to be solid high school and college math students, they did not show the level of creative and confident mathematical problem solving that my present class has. As an experienced Waldorf math teacher, Jamie York shows a deep understanding of when and how to introduce age-appropriate material and leads the teacher through the introduction of the pedagogical basis of each theme. He avoids the possible over-emphasis on teaching students math procedural skills and encourages teaching slowly and thoroughly so that students deeply absorb the material. And by helping a math or class teacher show how math is a fascinating, creative, yet quite achievable endeavor, Mr. York has helped me develop students who are on the path to becoming imaginative, analytical thinkers in high school.
— Nancy Pierce, Portland, OR, USA

I’m a 6th Grade Teacher and my students worked with your workbook this year, and I took many inspirations from your Middle School Curriculum Guide. I just wanted to let you know what a fabulous, positive experience it was. I think I found myself in that “difficult middle school spot” that teachers can get into. Parents wonder if what the class teacher offers is “enough” and how they will ever “learn” to use worksheets and such. My students have always been enthusiastic mathematicians. They loved working with the book, which we completed and are reviewing now during the past few weeks of school. I’m looking forward to using your workbooks for 7th grade as well.
— Claudia Thomas, Richmond, VA, USA

Softcover, 192 pages.  11 x 8.5".

Published by Jamie York Press.

Printed in the United States.

The Good Enough Parent is a compendium of life lessons, including how to say 'No', how to look beneath the surface of "bad" behavior to find the root of what is going on, how to encourage a child to be genuinely kind, and how to handle the moodiness of adolescence. 

Rather than striving for perfection, the book argues, the job of any parent is in fact to guide a child gently into the imperfect nature of everything. 

Encouraging, wry, and steeped in years of experience, The Good Enough Parent is an intelligent guide to raising a child who will one day look back on their childhood with just the right mixture of gratitude, humor, and love.

• COMPASSIONATE ADVICE: for raising content toddlers into resourceful teens.
• FOR BUSY PARENTS: includes digestible, accessible lessons in parenting.
• ACTIONABLE TIPS: for balancing parental instinct with the acquisition of new skills.
• EMOTIONAL CURRICULUM: with lessons in curiosity, listening, manners, and adolescence.

Hardcover.

Published by The School of Life.

Making Dolls, Gifts and Toys

by Petra Berger

Felt is a durable and flexible material that is perfect for children to work with. This book contains a range of simple creative items to make using felt: from dolls and animal figures, to wall hangings and jewelry.

All of the projects are accompanied by step-by-step instructions, patterns and color photographs. They are all suitable for making with children.

Softcover, 96 pages.

2nd edition.

20.96 x 1.27 x 23.5 cm

Floris Books

by Jamie York

This student workbook contains a year’s worth of practice problems, exercises, and mathematical adventures for 6th grade.

View sample pages from this book in PDF Format.

Do you need an Answer Key or worked-out Solutions to Selected Problems?
Then you should purchase the Teacher’s Edition of the 6th Grade Workbook.

Is this for a teacher or parent?  Then you should also purchase A Source Book for Teaching Middle School Math (by Jamie York).  This is an essential resource for use with our workbooks.

Softcover, 59 pages.  8.5 x 11 inches.

Printed in the United States.

by Jamie York

This Teacher’s Edition of the workbook contains a year’s worth of practice problems, exercises, and mathematical adventures for 6th grade, including:

THIS TEACHER’S EDITION CONTAINS THE FOLLOWING:

• The 6th Grade Student’s Workbook
• Answer Key
• Selected Worked-Out Solutions
• “To The Teacher” – a section offering advice for teaching 6th grade math

View sample pages from this book in PDF Format.

You should also purchase A Source Book for Teaching Middle School Math
(by Jamie York).  This is an essential resource for teachers using our workbooks.

Softcover, 81 pages.  8.5 x 11 inches.

Printed in the United States.

by Jamie York

This Teacher’s Edition of the workbook contains a year’s worth of practice problems, exercises, and mathematical adventures for 7th grade, including:

The 7th Grade Student’s Workbook
Answer Key
Selected Worked-Out Solutions
“To The Teacher” – a section offering advice for teaching 7th grade math

View sample pages from this book in PDF Format.

You should also purchase A Source Book for Teaching Middle School Math
(by Jamie York).  This is an essential resource for teachers using our workbooks.

Softcover, 142 pages.  8.5 x 11 inches.

Printed in the United States.

by Jamie York

This student workbook contains a year’s worth of practice problems, exercises, and mathematical adventures for 8th grade.

View sample pages from this book in PDF Format.

Do you need an Answer Key or worked-out Solutions to Selected Problems?
Then you should purchase the Teacher’s Edition of the 8th Grade Workbook.

Is this for a teacher or parent?  Then you should also purchase A Source Book for Teaching Middle School Math (by Jamie York).  This is an essential resource for use with our workbooks.

Softcover, 68 pages.  8.5 x 11 inches.

Printed in the United States.

by Jamie York

This Teacher’s Edition of the workbook contains a year’s worth of practice problems, exercises, and mathematical adventures for 8th grade, including:

The 8th Grade Student’s Workbook
Answer Key
Selected Worked-Out Solutions
“To The Teacher” – a section offering advice for teaching 8th grade math

View sample pages from this book in PDF Format.

You should also purchase A Source Book for Teaching Middle School Math
(by Jamie York).  This is an essential resource for teachers using our workbooks.

Softcover, 103 pages.

8.5 x 11 inches.

Printed in the United States.

Modern Japanese Embroidery Designs

by AYUFISH Int.

A new graphic approach to traditional Japanese Sashiko!

The Sashiko embroidery designs in this book are almost architectural in nature--fresh and exciting. They include time-honored patterns used in new and striking ways as well as innovative designs inspired by things that we use and see every day. Paper clips, bridges, factories and seaside scenes are just a few of the many sources of inspiration for these 31 fabulous embroidery designs.

This complete how-to stitch design and pattern book includes:

• Illustrated techniques showing you how to chart your pattern and forming the perfect stitches
• Actual-size grids along with instructions for executing your designs
• Easy projects for accessories like bags, napkins and tissue box covers

Inspirational photos demonstrate the flow, texture and use of color that modern sashiko delivers, as well as some of the cool things you can make with these elegant and whimsical patterns!

31 designs; 70 color photos, 100 instructional photos, over 140 diagrams & schematics, 2 grids (also accessible online)


About the Author:
AYUFISH int. is a former space engineer who fell in love with sashiko for its straightforward beauty. She uses the things of daily life to inspire designs that are in perfect harmony with that simplicity of form. She has co-authored several books on sashiko in her native Japan and her work has been exhibited worldwide. See her work at https://ayufishint.shopinfo.jp/ and on Instagram @lastie.g

Softcover, 112 pages.

10 x 8 inches.

Tuttle Publishing.

Seriously Funny Facts About Your Favorite Animals

by Maxwell Eaton III

Recommended by the publisher for readers ages 4-8 years.  Recommended by Nest for 6 years (grade 1) and up.  There is a lot of detail and rich information in these books.

Hardcover, 32 pages.

Roaring Book Press.

"A characteristically charming and browsable addition to the series. Consider for readers looking for a bit of information and humor."—School Library Journal

"Readers will effortlessly access all this new knowledge to impress family members and friends. As with Eaton's previous forays, this is sure to be an oft-requested crowd-pleaser."—Booklist

Seriously Funny Facts About Your Favorite Animals

by Maxwell Eaton III

Maxwell Eaton III's The Truth About Butterflies is another hilarious addition to this fan favorite series. A funny, informational book to what butterflies are really like.

This guide to the majestic butterfly walks you through its unique life cycle and offers anything you ever wanted to know about the colorful insect... perfect for bug lovers and insect enthusiasts!

Recommended by the publisher for readers ages 4-8 years.  Recommended by Nest for 6 years (grade 1) and up.  Ideal for Grade 3.

Hardcover, 32 pages.

Roaring Book Press.

"A characteristically charming and browsable addition to the series. Consider for readers looking for a bit of information and humor."—School Library Journal

"Readers will effortlessly access all this new knowledge to impress family members and friends. As with Eaton's previous forays, this is sure to be an oft-requested crowd-pleaser."—Booklist

Seriously Funny Facts About Your Favorite Animals

by Maxwell Eaton III

Maxwell Eaton III's The Truth About Bears is a lighthearted nonfiction picture book, filled with useful facts about bears that will make you laugh so hard you won’t even realize you’re learning something!

Recommended by the publisher for readers ages 4-8 years.  Recommended by Nest for 6 years (grade 1) and up.  Ideal for Grade 4.

Hardcover, 32 pages.

Roaring Book Press.

"The truth is…this series may well inspire a new generation of animal scientists and conservationists."—The Horn Book, starred review

Seriously Funny Facts About Your Favorite Animals

by Maxwell Eaton III

From writer/illustrator Maxwell Eaton III, The Truth About Crocodiles is the fifth installment in his hilarous series offering another lighthearted look filled with useful facts about crocodiles that will make you laugh so hard, you won't even realize you're learning something!

Did you know that crocs often keep rocks in their stomachs in order to stay underwater longer?

Did you know that baby crocs make sounds similar to kittens when they hatch?

Did you know that crocs have a lot of teeth, but don’t actually chew their food?

Discover these facts and more in this addition to the popular series that combines raucous amounts of humor with a surprising amount of information on beloved animal friends.

Recommended by the publisher for readers ages 4-8 years.  Recommended by Nest for 6 years (grade 1) and up.  Ideal for Grade 3.

Hardcover, 32 pages.

Roaring Book Press.

Seriously Funny Facts About Your Favorite Animals

by Maxwell Eaton III

Did you know that dolphins find their dinners by using sound to track down the location of their prey?

Did you know that baby dolphins are born tail-first?

Did you know that each dolphin has a unique whistle (like human fingerprints) that makes them recognizable to other dolphins?

Discover these facts and more in The Truth About Dolphins, a new addition to the popular series that combines raucous amounts of humor with a surprising amount of information on beloved animal friends.

Recommended by the publisher for readers ages 4-8 years.  Recommended by Nest for 6 years (grade 1) and up.  Ideal for Grade 3.

Hardcover, 32 pages.

Roaring Book Press.

"The truth is…this series may well inspire a new generation of animal scientists and conservationists."—The Horn Book, starred review

"This third in an engaging series of "seriously funny facts about your favorite animals" will both please and inform."—Kirkus

"This should prove popular with animal enthusiasts and enhance STEM collections—and it will probably require multiple readings."—Booklist

"Eaton’s inviting mix of takeaway facts and light humor hits a sweet spot for readers."—Publishers Weekly

by Pia Valentinis

Children face doubt in every part of their lives.  What will I wear?  How long will I have to wait?  Did I do it right?  These doubts allow us to face our insecurities and teach us how to choose, learn, and grow as we decide what paths to take in life.  Doubt is an intelligent approach for children from their own point of view that combines subtle humor with a little bit of irony to reassure the reader that we all cope with like unknowns.  Through a warm combination of colors, Pia Valentinis illustrates these common self-doubts through animals, each asking a simple question that creates a comfortable atmosphere where the reader is presented with different ways of dealing with them.  Doubt is a part of life, what makes us human, and in a world where we are pressured to be perfect, it is a healthy lesson to learn that the world can be wrong, that we are at liberty to change our minds, and that it is okay to stop and question, because "I always have so many doubts . . . Don't you?" 

Recommended for ages 4-8 years, but a provocative and comforting book for any age.

Hardcover, 36 pages.

11.0 x 8.75 inches

Schiffer Publishing.

About the Author:

by Barbara Beck

For young readers with a passion for drawing or creating beautiful buildings, The Future Architect’s Handbook takes them on an exhilarating journey into the world of architecture.

Within the pages of this book, aspiring, young architects will learn about the four essential drawings used by professionals: the site plan, floor plan, section, and elevation.  

Perfectly tailored with the middle grades (ages 9–12) in mind, this book engages the reader with vivid explanations and illustrations. The concept of drawing each plan to scale is demystified, empowering young minds to develop an eye for precision and accuracy.

Explore the vast array of architectural styles prevalent today: from sleek modern structures to timeless classical masterpieces, each style is beautifully showcased, igniting the imagination and nurturing a deeper appreciation for the art of architecture.

Enter the world of architects and discover the boundless possibilities that await within the pages of The Future Architect’s Handbook.

Hardcover, 48 pages.

9.13 x 8.13 inches

Schiffer Publishing.

A Kid's Guide to Super-Useful Social Skills to Help You Get Along and Express Yourself; Speak Up, Speak Out, Talk about Hard Things, and Be a Good Friend

By Catherine Newman

Middle school is an essential time to learn and practice social skills, including how to get along with others, talk about hard things, be an ally, and a good friend. 

In What Can I Say?, Catherine Newman, author of the bestseller How to Be a Person, provides supportive guidance and instruction to help kids establish or and maintain meaningful relationships and effective communication with friends, teachers, family members, and others in their communities.  Talking the talk can be tricky, and every page of this super-useful book provides easy, accessible scripts and guidance on the right thing to say in all kinds of situations, from how to be inclusive, listen, give advice, argue, stick up for yourself, and ask for help to how to turn down a date, express sympathy, deal with offensive comments, respond to bullying, and be trustworthy.

Humorous, graphic-style illustrations that play our familiar scenarios reenforce Newman's friendly, non-judgmental tone and her commitment to helping kids develop the skills to express themselves clearly while showing empathy, care, and generosity towards others.

Recommended for 10 - 14 years old (grades 5 - 9).

Softcover, 160 pages.

Storey Publishing.

Reviews

• "A primer for tweens on healthy communication and boundaries, how to be an ally, how to care for your community — basically, as Newman spells out in her introduction, “how to talk to the other people in your life.” Newman’s writing is kind and inclusive. Fong’s art is friendly and funny, depicting a diverse cast of young characters (of different races, genders, abilities) as they negotiate various social scenarios." — The New York Times Book Review
  
  “One of the most important things adults can teach children is the skill of communication and self-advocacy. What Can I Say? can not only teach children to be more confident, eloquent, and clear, it can save them from harm and give them the tools and courage they need to ask for help. I cannot recommend this book enough to anyone engaged in raising competent, proactive kids with a strong sense of self-efficacy.” ­ — Jessica Lahey, author of The Gift of Failure and The Addiction Inoculation
  
  "Newman is out with another totally gorgeous guide for kids about how to succeed in the world. This time, it’s real-talk on the awkward and hard task of behaving appropriately around other humans, told with the humor and nuance of a hip babysitter. This book is to GenZ what Free To Be You And Me was to GenX. You’ll find yourself wishing you’d had it years ago!" — Julie Lythcott-Haims, New York Times bestselling author of How to Raise an Adult and Your Turn
  
  "What a glorious book. What Can I Say? is much-needed in this era of increased social awkwardness and conflict. Catherine Newman and illustrator Debbie Fong have created a delightfully illustrated, inclusive guide to help kids evaluate their behavior, tune into their feelings, and figure out how to start a conversation, be a good listener, and interact in simple and emotionally charged situations, with kids and adults, and in person or digitally. If I had this book as a young person, I no doubt would have handled countless relationships in a more loving and compassionate manner." — Christine Koh, co-author of Minimalist Parenting and co-host of the EditYour Life podcast
  
  "Catherine Newman is my go-to for etiquette advice, both for me and my kids, who are 4 and 11. She has the touch: compassion for awkward and uncomfortable situations, like stepping away from a friendship or comforting someone, and our complicated feelings about them. Plus, she gets how much harder these are for young people. This book, full of fabulous illustrations, "Nerd Facts," pop quizzes, and examples of how to do things the right way ("Nailing It") and the wrong way ("Not Nailing It," "Also Not Nailing It") will make kids laugh, which is the best way to make them pay attention. It's an accessible primer on how to be more loving, inclusive, self-confident, and, indeed, a better human." — Jenny Pritchett, better known as Jenny True, "Dear Jenny" columnist on Romper and author of You Look Tired: An Excruciatingly Honest Guide to New Parenthood
  
  “A book that’s not just for kids! What Can I Say? offers clear, practical, and reassuring guidance to children and adolescents about communicating with others in all kinds of situations. From texting and emailing to conversations with an older adult or an intimate partner, the tips in this book are thoughtful, straightforward, and inclusive to young people and their families, broadly defined. As a mother, psychologist, and professor, I’d like to see this as required reading for all young people and those who love them. In a world where the art of communication is far too often neglected, What can I say reminds us how much interacting in a healthy way with those around us enriches our lives. From compromise to gratitude to forgiveness to compassion, Catherine Newman reminds youth and the adults who care about them the importance of humanity in communication.” — Abigail Gewirtz, Ph.D., L.P, author of When the World Feels Like a Scary Place, and Editor-in-Chief, International Journal of Psychology

Match-Ups, Word Puzzles, Quizzes, Mazes, Projects, Secret Codes + Lots More

by Julia Rothman

Kids aged 8 and up are invited to take a deep dive into the wonders of the ocean with Julia Rothman's Ocean Anatomy Activity Book. Based on Rothman's popular book Ocean Anatomy (with 102,000 copies in print), this interactive format features on-the-page word puzzles, mazes, drawing activities, craft projects, and much more. The book features Rothman's delightful illustrations throughout with activities such as identifying the parts of a crab, matching ocean creatures to their place in the tidal zones, helping the hermit crab through a maze to find his new home, and creating original sea shell shapes. From penguins and whales to barnacles and jellyfish, kids will love joining Rothman's colorful ocean exploration.

Softcover, 64 pages. 

20.3 x 0.6 x 25.4 cm.

Storey Publishing, 2024.

Reviews:

"Timely, important, and serious information does not have to be tough to digest. The latest book in Rothman's illustrated Anatomy series, is a spectacularly appealing overview of everything to do with the ocean that presents information with beauty and charm…This lovely book will appeal to readers of all ages, whether they want to sit and read or just dip their toes in. It should be in every library’s circulating collection." — Booklist 

"As usual, the book did not disappoint: beautifully done illustrations about the ocean and everything living in it." — Book Riot 

"The writing is clear, lively, and informative. Each spread is filled with a variety of colorful, appealing, and scientifically accurate drawings... A fact-filled, browsable title with strong visual appeal." — School Library Journal 

About the Author:

Julia Rothman is an illustrator, pattern designer, and author. Her illustrated column, Scratch, is featured biweekly in the Business section of the New York Times Sunday edition. In addition to working for clients such as City Target, the Washington Post, and MTA Arts & Design, she has her own lines of wallpaper, stationery, fabric, and dishware. Rothman has authored, coauthored, and illustrated twelve books including Ocean Anatomy, Nature Anatomy, Nature Anatomy Notebook, Food Anatomy, and Farm Anatomy. She lives and works in Brooklyn, New York.

Match-Ups, Word Puzzles, Quizzes, Mazes, Projects, Secret Codes + Lots More

by Julia Rothman

Bestselling author and illustrator Julia Rothman invites kids of all ages to engage with her acclaimed Nature Anatomy book through this companion activity book, featuring on-the-page creativity and learning activities, including matching challenges, word searches, drawing exercises, diary pages, and observational challenges.

In Julia Rothman's Nature Anatomy Activity Book, the author invites her many young fans to try their hand at identifying, drawing, and learning the parts and pieces of the natural world. Loaded with Rothman's original illustrations, the activity pages feature dozens of fun challenges. From labeling the parts of a tree to creating a cloud diary, identifying the sequence of the stages in a frog's life cycle, designing an original spider web, and learning to draw butterflies, Rothman's creative on-the-page quizzes, puzzles, and nature activities will pique the curiosity—and get the pencils moving—for kids of all ages. 

Softcover, 64 pages. 

20.3 x 0.6 x 25.4 cm.

Storey Publishing, 2024.

Reviews:

"Timely, important, and serious information does not have to be tough to digest. The latest book in Rothman's illustrated Anatomy series, is a spectacularly appealing overview of everything to do with the ocean that presents information with beauty and charm…This lovely book will appeal to readers of all ages, whether they want to sit and read or just dip their toes in. It should be in every library’s circulating collection." — Booklist 

"As usual, the book did not disappoint: beautifully done illustrations about the ocean and everything living in it." — Book Riot 

"The writing is clear, lively, and informative. Each spread is filled with a variety of colorful, appealing, and scientifically accurate drawings... A fact-filled, browsable title with strong visual appeal." — School Library Journal 

About the Author:

Julia Rothman is an illustrator, pattern designer, and author. Her illustrated column, Scratch, is featured biweekly in the Business section of the New York Times Sunday edition. In addition to working for clients such as City Target, the Washington Post, and MTA Arts & Design, she has her own lines of wallpaper, stationery, fabric, and dishware. Rothman has authored, coauthored, and illustrated twelve books including Ocean Anatomy, Nature Anatomy, Nature Anatomy Notebook, Food Anatomy, and Farm Anatomy. She lives and works in Brooklyn, New York.

by Tasha Tudor

A charming, classic animal tale with plenty of heart – and plenty of corgis!

One of Tasha's most beloved books.  The fair is the highlight of the year!

In Corgiville, as in many small towns all over America, the biggest event of the year is the fair.  And the most exciting thing at the Corgiville Fair is the goat race!  Caleb Corgi has spent months training his goat, Josephine, for the big event.  But Edgar Tomcat’s goat is fast, too, and Caleb knows that Edgar is not above indulging in some dirty tricks in order to win.

The sights, smells, and all the fun and excitement of a typical small-town fair are captured with humor and affection in Tasha Tudor’s text and marvelously detailed watercolor paintings.

Tasha Tudor has woven a highly imaginative story from various themes and events of her life, including a peculiar Swedish troll species known as boggarts, which seem to be imbued with slightly naughty characteristics.  Though written for children, adults seem unable to resist the charm of Corgiville, and it has enthralled families for generations. Originally printed in 1971, this is the early 2000 reprint.

Hardcover, 48 pages.

9.5 x 11 inches.

Little Brown Books.

Printed in China.

The best-selling Backpack Explorer series has become a favorite of nature-curious kids and families. Now available in one value-packed bundle, the Backpack Explorer 5-Book Set with Nature Collection Box includes five books in the series: On the Nature Trail; Bird Watch; Bug Hunt; Discovering Trees; and Rock Hunt.  Packed with prompts, activities, interactive field guides, and sensory scavenger hunts, each Backpack Explorer book gets kids outside and exploring the world around them. Colorful, lightweight, and durable, these books are designed to be popped in a backpack and taken along on nature walks—turning any outdoor adventure into an opportunity for nature science learning! In addition to the hands-on activities, each book includes a real magnifying glass for outdoor and on-the-page observing, three sheets of sticker patches for keeping track of nature finds, and a log for recording naturalist notes. 

The five books in the gift set are packaged in a keepsake nature collection box with sturdy dividers and label stickers for storing and identifying rocks, feathers, leaves, and other nature treasures that kids pick up along the trail.

Bursting with hundreds of activities for screen-free fun and nature learning, this collection will make a special gift for junior naturalists ages 4-7. 

by Elsa Beskow

Woody and Little Pip, the acorn children, begin an adventure flying through the air on an autumn leaf. When they don't come home their friend Hazel sets off to find them.

This delightful autumn story by the world-renowned Swedish author--illustrator Elsa Beskow charmingly describes the woodland adventures of two acorn children who get carried away by the blustery autumn wind.

A collectable picture book featuring a unique hand-crafted design, premium-quality paper, gold foil signature and a luxurious cloth spine.  

Recommended for children 4-6 ages.

Hardcover, 32 pages.

27 cm x 22 cm.

Floris Books.

by Irmgard Kutsch and Brigitte Walden; Translated by Jane R. Helmchen

Encourage children to engage with the seasons as they craft willow hanging baskets, harvest and prepare fruit, care for birds and make Advent wreaths.

A wonderful resource book for any Waldorf or Waldorf-inspired kindergarten.

As well as fun nature activities -- both indoor and outside -- for children, this book also includes valuable background reading and advice for teachers, such as how to create your own kindergarten garden.

All the activities in this book are based on practical experience from the Children's Nature and Garden Centre in Germany, and are fully tried and tested.

Table of Contents

Introduction

September:

• Healthy Food
• Harvesting and preparation
• The Little Pot That Was Always Full

October:

• Basket-making
• House-building

November:

• Caring for birds
• Beeswax
• Dipping candles
• Making paper
• Painting and handcrafts

December:

• Advent
• An Advent Story
• Christmas scenes

January:

• Working with wool
• Weaving
• Knitting
• Felting
• Magic wool

February:

• Willow hedge
• Wooden toys
• Carvings Twigs in kindergarten
• More wood projects
• Working with clay

Resources

Hardcover, with over 300 colour illustrations. 160 pages.  29 x 19.2 cm.

Floris Books, 2019.

Reviews

'The activities included will be inspiring for all, including those seeking outdoor nature-based ideas and projects for children up to the age of seven and beyond. It is richly illustrated with lovely photographs of young children engaged in these nature activities… With its spring/summer companion it would make a lovely gift and provides a resource to return to as the seasons turn.'
-- Kindling

'This is another wonderful book full of resources and ideas for activities with children, following the rhythm of the seasons of Autumn and Winter... This book is a worthy addition to any home or Kindergarten Library!'
-- Blathu

It's winter, and as the last leaves fall from the trees, and the nights are at their longest, the sky seems darker and wider than ever. On cold, crisp and cloudless nights, there's nothing better than a bit of moon-gazing. Since the beginning of time, humans have looked to the moon with wonder, and with a lingering question: what is it exactly that stares back at us?

In this issue, you will discover three stories that tell us something about the nature of the moon: its origin, its phases and whether it could be a place that humans could call home. And by the time you have read this magazine, we hope that you will be able to make a moon viewer, name the moon's phases, create a lunar calendar, draw the moon, craft a moon lantern... and much more!

Activities are laid out in order, and span a suggested timeline of 3 days, making this a fabulous resource for homeschooling.

Staplebound.  Beautifully printed on sturdy, high quality, uncoated paper.

~39 pages.

Printed in the UK.

Fantasy and reality collide in this exciting middle-grade novel starring the unicorns of mythology and legend

Can two best friends save the last of the wild unicorns from extinction? Offers alternative viewpoints from strong boy and girl characters

'Across the moor galloped a huge dark beast; a heavily muscled horse with a gleaming, rippling black mane. The animal reared up, its hooves cutting the sky, its silken tail streaming like a banner. Its spiralled horn glinted in the sun.'

Lewis is cold, wet and miserable on his school residential trip in the Highlands of Scotland. The last thing he expects to see is a mythical creature galloping across the bleak moorland. Unicorns aren't real… are they?

Lewis and his best friend Rhona find themselves caught up in a dangerous adventure to save the world's last herd of wild unicorns. Fighting against dark forces, battling the wild landscape, and harnessing ancient magic, can they rescue the legendary creatures in time?

Lindsay Littleson is the author of The Mixed-Up Summer of Lily Mclean and The Awkward Autumn of Lily Mclean

Recommended for ages 9-12 years.

Softcover, 208 pages.

198 x 130 mm.

Floris Books.

By Admar Kwant

A lovely introduction for young children to the joy of preparing for Christmas, with soft illustrations and simple words.

Shares a gentle message about appreciating simple things.

The small, chunky format and rounded corners make this book perfect for little hands.  Discover more of Pip's adventures in the companion board books

Pip the gnome decorates his Christmas tree with help from his animal friends in this gentle board book with simple words - perfect for sharing with young children.

Recommended for 1 - 3 years old.

Board book, 12 pages. Beautiful colour illustrations. 180 x 153 mm.

Floris Books, 2021.

About the Author

Admar Kwant lives with her husband and two children in the Netherlands, by the edge of a lake. Her family life and love of nature inspire her drawing and painting. She regularly creates illustrations for Educare, a Dutch parenting magazine. She is the author and illustrator of Pip the Gnome and Pip the Gnome and the Christmas Tree, gentle board books for young children.

Reviews

'Kwant's art is the star of this simple story. Rendered in soft coloured pencil or oil pastels, the scenes beautifully evoke the playful joy of decorating a tree. Pip is especially endearing, with his apple-doll face, Santa-red hat, and apple-green suit.'
-- Kirkus Book Reviews (US)

'Colourful illustrations and simple words in this utterly charming story written and illustrated by Admar Kwant introduce babies and toddlers to the joy of preparing for Christmas. Soft, wintery colors wonderfully illuminate the day from morning to dusk, ending with the candle-lit tree.'
-- Midwest Book Review (US)

Illustrated in full colour and packed with character and humour, this is the fifth whodunnit mystery in the award-winning Detective Gordon series, fun to read alone or aloud.

A Case with a Bang is the final book in the series of funny detective stories for early readers set in a friendly forest in which two determinedly fair police — retired-toad Gordon and the indefatigable mouse Buffy — solve the mystery and stop regularly to eat cake.

Night brings a horrible humming, scraping sound in the forest.  Someone has wrecked the badger’s trash can.  Later, three large creatures are spotted up on the mountain.

Detective Buffy discovers this seemingly small case really is a dangerous mystery — she comes back from her first investigation flat as a gingerbread, rolled over by something huge and terrifying.

Back at the station, retired Detective Gordon is training a new young police assistant, and the cakes have run out in the forest bakery!

While all the animals cower at the police station, Buffy remembers Gordon’s stories about trolls.  Is it possible they do exist?  Taking Gordon’s advice about how everyone thinks differently, she finds a way to communicate with the giant creatures — perhaps not so terrifying after all.

The book leaves readers with a memorable Gordon message: Everyone thinks differently, strangers are welcome, cakes for everybody!

This final instalment in the award-winning Detective Gordon series is a multi-layered philosophical story about good detective work involving all, kindness to newcomers and doing the right thing.

Winner of multiple awards and accolades, Detective Gordon is a mystery series with depth — perfect for reading alone for emerging readers, wonderful for reading aloud together as a chapter book.

A brilliant detective story by Ulf Nilsson, one of Sweden’s top children’s writers and illustrated by Gitte Spee in full colour throughout.  A book to read alone or aloud!

Available in either Softcover, 20.4 x 14.4 cm, or Hardcover.

Gecko Press.

Ideal for children 6-9 years old.

About the Detective Gordon series:

Detective Gordon is a friendly, philosophical, humorous, and thoughtful detective series following the adventures of the rather tired—and often hungry—Detective Gordon and his chirpy assistant, Buffy.

Detective Gordon is something of a humanist, and keeps an eye out for the weaker inhabitants of his woods. The books are full of warm, witty wisdom from one of Sweden’s foremost children’s authors, Ulf Nilsson. The text is affectionately and generously illustrated in watercolor and pencil by acclaimed Dutch illustrator, Gitte Spee. This is a detective series with depth—ideal for elementary school, perfect for reading alone, wonderful for reading aloud.

by Studio Tac Creative

Learn to make fresh, fun, and whimsical wooden toys! Perfect for beginner to advanced scrollers, this must-have project guide will walk you through how to scroll saw 15 interactive wooden toys kids will love. Using minimal tools and food-safe finishes, the featured scroll saw projects have a contemporary aesthetic and are truly unique to engage children in new and exciting ways. Also included are helpful overviews on materials and tools, including how to use sandpaper, drills, a square, a plane, and more. With easy-to-follow, step-by-step instructions and expert tips and tricks to assist you in accomplishing each exciting project, Making Wooden Toys is the ultimate guide to making one-of-a-kind interactive toys that are just as fun to make as they are to play with!

15 Projects that Stack, Tumble Whistle, and Climb

Softcover, 184 pages.

7.0" x 10.0"

Fox Chapel Publishing.

by Kelly Yang

Raves & reviews:

by Sharon Creech

Winner of the Newbery Medal and the Children's Book Award, this is a breathtaking book, a modern classic in the making.

Don’t judge a man until you’ve walked two moons in his moccasins.

What is the meaning of this strange message left on the doorstep?  Only Sal knows, and on a roadtrip with her grandparents she tells the bizarre tale of Phoebe Winterbottom, Phoebe’s disappearing mother and the lunatic.  But who can help Sal make sense of the mystery that surrounds her own story . . . and her own missing mother? 

In her own singularly beautiful style, Newbery Medal winner Sharon Creech intricately weaves together two tales, one funny, one bittersweet, to create a heartwarming, compelling, and utterly moving story of love, loss, and the complexity of human emotion.

Thirteen-year-old Salamanca Tree Hiddle, proud of her country roots and the "Indian-ness in her blood," travels from Ohio to Idaho with her eccentric grandparents. Along the way, she tells them of the story of Phoebe Winterbottom, who received mysterious messages, who met a "potential lunatic," and whose mother disappeared.

As Sal entertains her grandparents with Phoebe's outrageous story, her own story begins to unfold—the story of a thirteen-year-old girl whose only wish is to be reunited with her missing mother.

Recommended for young readers ages 9-13 years.

Softcover, 256 pages.

MacMillan Publishing.

Printed in the United Kingdom.

By Meredith & Sofie Jacobs

The Just Between Us journal you know and love-now for dads and daughters! Co-written by a real-life father-daughter team! In this journal co-author of the original Just Between Us: Mother & Daughter, Sofie Jacobs, partners with her father, Jonathan Jacobs, to offer advice and prompts for fathers and daughters to express anything and everything. With sensitivity and thoughtfulness, this interactive keepsake journal provides the space and encouragement for father-daughter conversations, packed with all the essentials to cultivate shared respect and deep understanding in one of life's most important relationships. Perfect for dads and daughters who are already close, it is also a shared resource for any father-daughter pair looking to deepen their relationship!

Includes:

• Advice and guidance from a real father and daughter duo
• Writing and drawing prompts to get the conversation started-and keep it going
• Pages for drawing funny pictures and making ambitious lists
• Plenty of free space for writing about whatever is on both of your minds

BESTSELLING JOURNAL SERIES: First published more than ten years ago, Just Between Us: Mother & Daughter is the original bestselling mother-daughter journal. This latest addition to the series-written by a real dad and daughter duo!-contains all-new prompts and art, perfect for longtime fans and new journalers alike.

DELUXE KEEPSAKE: Complete with two ribbon-markers so that both father and daughter can mark their place, this colorful, highly-illustrated hardcover journal makes for the perfect gift to fill now and treasure for years to come.

DAD & DAUGHTER CONNECTION: There are so many benefits to kids-girls especially-when they have an active and engaged father, from health and IQ to stable jobs and relationships. Just Between Us encourages regular, active communication, ensuring that when you need each other most, you're there for one another.

A POWERFUL TOOL: This journal helps facilitate necessary conversations in fun, funny, and heartwarming ways by offering a safe space to be honest. Writing removes a layer of awkwardness by providing some distance, and encourages vulnerability and truthfulness in those more reluctant to share.

Perfect for:

• Daughters and mothers looking for the perfect birthday or Father's Day gift for dad
• Resource for mothers, fathers, or stepparents looking for bonding activities for their families
• Families familiar with the original journal who are eager for new content
• Fans of Wreck This Journal and Why a Daughter Needs a Dad or anyone looking for a high-value interactive journal for dads or stepdads

Recommended for ages 10 and up. Fathers can begin making entries when their daughters are younger, in preparation for handing it over...

Hardcover.  6-1/2 x 8-3/4 inches.  144 pages.

Chronicle Books, 2023.

By Elsa Beskow

Princess Sylvie and her father, the king, leave the palace gardens for a walk in the woods.  Then Oskar the dog runs off after a long-eared hare and Sylvie's adventures begin.  What will they find hiding in the forest?

This is a delightful story for young children about exploring new places and making new friends from the world-renowned Swedish author--illustrator Elsa Beskow.

This wonderful new edition of Princess Sylvie faithfully reproduces Beskow's classic illustrations in a collectable picture book featuring a unique hand-crafted design, premium-quality paper, gold foil signature and a luxurious cloth spine.  Create an Elsa Beskow library by collecting all of the gorgeous new editions.

Recommended for ages 4-7 years.

Hardcover, 32 pages.  235 x 295 mm.

Floris Books, reprint Oct 2020.

Reviews

'Princess Sylvie is a reprint of a treasured child's picture book from a series by the author/illustrator now over a century old … a beloved classic that will be reintroduced to countless new generations of young readers to come.'
-- Midwest Book Review

'Fans of the author will be pleased to discover that this Swedish tale, originally published in 1934, has been translated into English … Soft, gentle watercolors keep the mood light and airy and complement the fairy-tale quality of the text.'
-- School Library Journal

'This classical fairytale is filled with vibrant watercolor paintings that add realistic detail to the timeless story.'
-- Omnilibros

'Beautifully illustrated books that will enhance every child's library.'
-- Creative Steps

'Fans of Elsa Beskow will be delighted to see this book available in English and I'm sure young children will enjoy having it read to them at bedtime where they too can take joy in the author's love of animals and nature.'
--Armadillo

'This lovely story for young children is all about new places and friends and coming home. This is sure to be a story you and yours children will read over and over again.'
-- Tammy Dolling

By Sarah Olmsted

For children, potential is limitless, curiosity is an electrical current, and every moment is open to the possibility of the unexpected.  Day-to-day life is filled with adventure.  Road blocks are invitations to try new routes.  And the world is vast and expansive.  This book is a celebration of childhood through the crafts and activities that invite wonder and play.  The twenty-five projects and activities in this book are meant to speak to the way children engage with the world.  These projects are not about what is produced in the end (although that part is fun too) but rather they are stepping-off points—activities that spark curiosity, an adventure, or an investigation.  They’re about the process of getting there.  They’re about the conversations that happen while making things together.  They’re about getting to know the world inch by inch.  They’re about exploring imaginary universes and running through real forests.  They’re about living in childhood . . . regardless of your actual age.  They’re about being a kid.

Softcover, 240 pages.

7 x 8.5 inches.

Roost Books.

"I have two responses to reading these pages: (1) I want to run directly to my toolbox and start making stuff, and (2) I want to run outside into the woods and spend hours playing. This book is a must have for every parent’s exploration toolkit!" —Keri Smith, author of How to Be an Explorer of the World and Wreck This Journal

"Reading Imagine Childhood was like finding a guidebook into the brilliant and vast galaxy of a child’s mind. The book is brimful of projects and springboards that help you nurture a creative, sensitive, and wonder-filled child in the best possible way." —Sharon Lovejoy, author and illustrator of Toad Cottages & Shooting Stars and My First Bird Book & Feeder

Kwame Alexander’s New York Times bestseller and Newbery Medal–winning The Crossover is vividly brought to life as a graphic novel with stunning illustrations by star talent Dawud Anyabwile.

New York Times Bestseller · Newbery Medal Winner · Coretta Scott King Honor Award · 2015 YALSA Top Ten Best Fiction for Young Adults · 2015 YALSA Quick Picks for Reluctant Young Adult Readers · Publishers Weekly Best Book · School Library Journal Best Book · Kirkus Best Book

“A beautifully measured novel of life and line.” —New York Times Book Review

The Crossover is now a graphic novel!

“With a bolt of lightning on my kicks . . . The court is SIZZLING. My sweat is DRIZZLING. Stop all that quivering. ’Cuz tonight I’m delivering,” raps twelve-year-old Josh Bell. Thanks to their dad, he and his twin brother, Jordan, are kings on the court. But Josh has more than basketball in his blood—he’s got mad beats, too, which help him find his rhythm when it’s all on the line.

See the Bell family in a whole new light through Dawud Anyabwile’s dynamic illustrations as the brothers’ winning season unfolds, and the world as they know it begins to change.

Recommended by the publisher for ages 8-12 years.  Recommended by Nest for ages 10 and up through to adult.  This is an incredible read that stays with you long after.

Softcover, 224 pages.

Clarion Books.

by Janae Marks

#1 Kids Indie Next List * Parents Magazine Best Book of the Year * Chicago Public Library Best of the Best Book of the Year * SLJ Best Book of the Year * Kirkus Best Book of the Year * Junior Library Guild Selection * Edgar Award Nominee * Four Starred Reviews * Bank Street Best Children’s Book of the Year * An Indie Bestseller *

From debut author Janae Marks comes a captivating story full of heart, as one courageous girl questions assumptions, searches for the truth, and does what she believes is right—even in the face of great opposition. 

Zoe Washington isn’t sure what to write. What does a girl say to the father she’s never met, hadn’t heard from until his letter arrived on her twelfth birthday, and who’s been in prison for a terrible crime?

A crime he says he never committed.

Could Marcus really be innocent? Zoe is determined to uncover the truth. Even if it means hiding his letters and her investigation from the rest of her family. Everyone else thinks Zoe’s worrying about doing a good job at her bakery internship and proving to her parents that she’s worthy of auditioning for Food Network’s Kids Bake Challenge.

But with bakery confections on one part of her mind, and Marcus’s conviction weighing heavily on the other, this is one recipe Zoe doesn’t know how to balance. The only thing she knows to be true: Everyone lies.

"When Marcus tells Zoe he is innocent, and her grandmother agrees, Zoe begins to learn about inequality in the criminal justice system, and she sets out to find the alibi witness who can prove his innocence." (Publishers Weekly, "An Anti-Racist Children's and YA Reading List")

Plus don't miss Janae Marks's A Soft Place to Land!

Recommended for readers ages 8-12 years old (grades 3-7).

Softcover, 320 pages. 

Katherine Tegen Books.

Critical Praise

“This powerful debut packs both depth and sweetness, tackling a tough topic in a sensitive, compelling way. An extraordinary, timely, must-read debut about love, family, friendship, and justice.” — Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

"This exceptionally sweet debut from Marks illustrates profound cracks in the American criminal justice system while telling an affecting story grounded in the middle-grade experience. The troubling ways race affects the characters…will facilitate important conversations about racial profiling and incarceration rates for people of color. Fortunately, Marks’ capable storytelling and engaging characters also combine into a wondrous confection of a book, full of heart and hope and promise.”  — Booklist (starred review)

"Debut author Marks seamlessly weaves timely discussions about institutionalized racism into this uplifting and engaging story that packs an emotional punch." — Publishers Weekly (starred review)

“A smart, necessary, and hopeful middle grade debut that expertly balances a gentle, heartwarming tone with searing insight into systemic racism.” — School Library Journal (starred review)

“Marks delivers a spirited central character whose determination to get to the truth is admirable. An involving family story, this novel could also serve as an introduction to social justice for elementary schoolers." — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books

"Never heavy-handed, Marks’ prose is as sweet as one of Zoe’s confections. And as the icing on the cake, From the Desk of Zoe Washington imparts important lessons about judging other people, whether by the color of their skin or by their presumed guilt or innocence." — BookPage

“Marks tackles the complex costs of the pursuit of justice and motivates readers to feel equipped—and energized—to stand up for what’s right, right now. Readers will recognize that, like Zoe Washington, they need not wait until they grow up to make their actions count.” — Tanita S. Davis, author of Mare’s War

“A delightful confection of a novel! Zoe is a wondrous heroine who inspires a deeper love for food, family, and friends. Advocating for social justice, she creates a new recipe for a better, sweeter world. An enticing and enthralling debut from Janae Marks.” — Jewell Parker Rhodes, New York Times bestselling author of Ghost Boys

“A touching, tender, and absorbing read!” — Jodi Kendall, author of The Unlikely Story of a Pig in the City

“With a dash of mystery, sprinkle of passion, and whole lot of heart, From the Desk of Zoe Washington has found a winning recipe.” — Coe Booth, author of Kinda Like Brothers

"[A] marvelous debut novel by Janae Marks for middle-grade readers... a compelling mystery... Marks has managed to write a middle-grade novel that explores racial justice issues and addresses the routine bias Zoe faces while also dealing with coming-of-age issues... The book serves as a valuable introduction to The Innocence Project for its target audience." — Buffalo News

By Admar Kwant

The small, chunky format and rounded corners make this book perfect for little hands.  Discover more of Pip's adventures in the companion board books

Recommended for 1 - 3 years old.

Board book, 12 pages. Beautiful colour illustrations. 180 x 153 mm.

Floris Books.

About the Author

Admar Kwant lives with her husband and two children in the Netherlands, by the edge of a lake. Her family life and love of nature inspire her drawing and painting. She regularly creates illustrations for Educare, a Dutch parenting magazine. She is the author and illustrator of Pip the Gnome and Pip the Gnome and the Christmas Tree, gentle board books for young children.

Reviews

'Kwant's art is the star of this simple story. Rendered in soft coloured pencil or oil pastels, the scenes beautifully evoke the playful joy of decorating a tree. Pip is especially endearing, with his apple-doll face, Santa-red hat, and apple-green suit.'
-- Kirkus Book Reviews (US)

'Colourful illustrations and simple words in this utterly charming story written and illustrated by Admar Kwant introduce babies and toddlers to the joy of preparing for Christmas. Soft, wintery colors wonderfully illuminate the day from morning to dusk, ending with the candle-lit tree.'
-- Midwest Book Review (US)

by Sharon M Draper

A New York Times bestseller!

Melody faces her fears to follow her passion in this stunning sequel to the acclaimed, New York Times bestselling middle grade novel Out of My Mind.

Melody, the huge-hearted heroine of Out of My Mind, is a year older, and a year braver. And now with her Medi-talker, she feels nothing’s out of her reach, not even summer camp. There have to be camps for differently-abled kids like her, and she’s going to sleuth one out. A place where she can trek through a forest, fly on a zip line, and even ride on a horse! A place where maybe she really can finally make a real friend, make her own decisions, and even do things on her own—the dream!

By the light of flickering campfires and the power of thunderstorms, through the terror of unexpected creatures in cabins and the first sparkle of a crush, Melody’s about to discover how brave and strong she really is.

Softcover, 368 pages.

Simon & Schuster Canada

by Ruth Sawyer; illustrated by Valenti Angelo

Recommended for young readers ages 8-12 years (Grades 3-7).

Growing up in a well-to-do family with strict rules and routines can be tough for a ten-year-old girl who only wants to roller skate.  But when Lucinda Wyman's parents go overseas on a trip to Italy and leave her behind in the care of Miss Peters and Miss Nettie in New York City, she suddenly gets all the freedom she wants!  Lucinda zips around New York on her roller skates, meeting tons of new friends and having new adventures every day.  But Lucinda has no idea what new experiences the city will show her.... Some of which will change her life forever.

Winner of the Newbery Medal in 1937.  A classic novel that combines charm, shocking tragedy, and coming of age.

Softcover, 192 pages.

Published by Puffin Books.

Reviews:

“A refreshingly lively and genuine story.”—The New York Times

by Bill Bryson

"This is not a real dictionary, it's just a collection of some words I've run into." ~ Bill Bryson

From one of the world’s most beloved and bestselling authors, a terrifically useful and readable guide to the problems of the English language most commonly encountered by editors and writers.

What is the singular form of graffiti? From what mythological figure is the word “tantalize” derived? One of the English language’s most skilled writers guides us all toward precise, mistake-free usage. Covering spelling, capitalization, plurals, hyphens, abbreviations, and foreign names and phrases, Bryson’s Dictionary for Writers and Editors will be an indispensable companion for all who care enough about our language not to maul, misuse, or contort it.

As Bill Bryson notes, “English is a dazzlingly idiosyncratic tongue, full of quirks and irregularities that often seem willfully at odds with logic and common sense.” This dictionary is an essential guide to the wonderfully disordered thing that is the English language.

Softcover, 416 pages.

Published by Anchor Canada.

by Charles Kovacs

A retelling of Greek mythology and history as recommended for Steiner-Waldorf curriculum Grades 5-6 (ages 10-12 years).

This welcome new addition to Charles Kovacs' work contains legendary stories of mythical heroes and historic figures from the dawn of western civilization.  Through the fearless deeds of Heracles, Theseus and Odysseus to the Golden Age of Athens and the conquests of Alexander the Great, the narrative vividly portrays the journey from the mysteries of antiquity to the birth of modern medicine, science and philosophy.

Softcover, 176 pages.

Floris Books.

Printed in the United Kingdom.

About the Author:

Charles Kovacs was born in Austria. He left his native country in 1938 at the time of the Anschluss and joined the British Army in East Africa. After the War, he settled in Britain, and in 1956 he took over a class at the Rudolf Steiner School in Edinburgh, where he remained a class teacher until his retirement in 1976. He died in 2001. His extensive lesson notes have been a useful and inspiring resource material for many teachers. He is the author of The Age of Revolution (Floris Books 2003) and Parsifal and the Search for the Grail (Floris Books 2002).

It's winter, and as the last leaves fall from the trees, and the nights are at their longest, the sky seems darker and wider than ever. On cold, crisp and cloudless nights, there's nothing better than a bit of moon-gazing. Since the beginning of time, humans have looked to the moon with wonder, and with a lingering question: what is it exactly that stares back at us?

In this issue, you will discover three stories that tell us something about the nature of the moon: its origin, its phases and whether it could be a place that humans could call home. And by the time you have read this magazine, we hope that you will be able to make a moon viewer, name the moon's phases, create a lunar calendar, draw the moon, craft a moon lantern... and much more!

Activities are laid out in order, and span a suggested timeline of 3 days, making this a fabulous resource for homeschooling.

Staplebound.  Beautifully printed on sturdy, high quality, uncoated paper.

~39 pages.

Printed in the UK.

by Charles Kovacs

A wonderful overview of world history from the eighteenth to twentieth centuries for children which is written in Charles Kovacs's warm and expressive style.

This fascinating time period includes the French, American and Industrial Revolutions. Kovacs chooses pertinent stories which create a tapestry showing the development of humankind from medieval times, when every person had their place in the hierarchy of society, to the awakening of individuality in modern times.

This is a fascinating and engaging resource for teachers and home schoolers which is used in the Steiner-Waldorf curriculum for 13-14 year olds

Softcover, 240 pages.

Floris Books.

Printed in the United Kingdom.

Reviews

'This book is published for use by Steiner School teachers but it is a marvellous read for anyone who would like to get to grips in a lively way with history. The book is written in an eminently readable and warm style. It will give young people a good, clear perspective on how, why and what went wrong in the past, and how we might find a better way for the future.
I found The Age of Revolution interesting and enjoyable and long after having finished the book, I was able to recall much information I had read therein. Charles Kovacs certainly brought history "alive" for me and I recommend it both to adults wanting to enhance their understanding of past events, and as an excellent resource book for teachers.'
-- Rosemary Usselman, New View

About the Author:

Charles Kovacs was born in Austria. He left his native country in 1938 at the time of the Anschluss and joined the British Army in East Africa. After the War, he settled in Britain, and in 1956 he took over a class at the Rudolf Steiner School in Edinburgh, where he remained a class teacher until his retirement in 1976. He died in 2001. His extensive lesson notes have been a useful and inspiring resource material for many teachers. He is the author of The Age of Revolution (Floris Books 2003) and Parsifal and the Search for the Grail (Floris Books 2002).

by Louise Fitzhugh

The Classic Edition paperback. 

Soon to be an animated series starring Golden Globe nominee Beanie Feldstein and Emmy Award winner Jane Lynch, it's no secret that Harriet the Spy is a timeless classic that kids will love!

Harriet M. Welsch is a spy. In her notebook, she writes down everything she knows about everyone, even her classmates and her best friends. Then Harriet loses track of her notebook, and it ends up in the wrong hands. Before she can stop them, her friends have read the always truthful, sometimes awful things she’s written about each of them. Will Harriet find a way to put her life and her friendships back together?

Recommended for young readers ages 8-12 years.

Includes a sneak peek at Harriet Spies Again at the end.

Softcover, 320 pages.

Published in the United States by Yearling, Random House Kids Books.

"What the novel showed me as a child is that words have the power to hurt, but they can also heal, and that it’s much better in the long run to use this power for good than for evil."—New York Times bestselling author Meg Cabot

A New York Public Library's 100 Great Children's Books 100 Years selection

"Finding Harriet as a young writer in the mid 1960s was inspiring.  It meant I wasn’t the only one who wanted to tell stories about kids who were real." — JUDY BLUME

“I don’t know of a better novel...that made more readers of my generation want to become fiction writers. I love the story of Harriet so much I feel as if I lived it.” — JONATHAN FRANZEN, author of Freedom and The Corrections

"Harriet the Spy bursts with life." — School Library Journal

"The characterizations are marvelously shrewd." — The Bulletin

by L. Frank Baum

Dorothy thinks she is lost forever when a terrifying tornado crashes through Kansas and whisks her and her dog, Toto, far away to the magical land of Oz. To get home Dorothy must follow the yellow brick road to Emerald City and find the wonderfully mysterious Wizard of Oz. Together with her companions the Tin Woodman, the Scarecrow and the Cowardly Lion whom she meets on the way, Dorothy embarks on a strange and enchanting adventure. With a charming introduction by award-winning Cornelia Funke, The Wizard of Oz is one of the twenty wonderful classics being relaunched in Puffin Classics in March 2015.

Recommended by the publisher for ages 10 years and up.

Softcover, 224 pages.

Puffin Classics.

Printed in Great Britain.

About the Author:

Born in 1856, in Chittenango, New York, L. Frank Baum is best remembered for his monumental 1900 classic The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. He returned frequently to the magical world he'd created, writing 13 books set in Oz. His considerable literary output included 55 novels, 83 short stories, over 200 poems, and many miscellaneous writings, including scripts and "lost" novels. He passed away in 1919.

by Jules Verne; translated by Anthony Bonner.

With an introduction by Ray Bradbury.

An American frigate, tracking down a ship-sinking monster, faces not a living creature but an incredible invention -- a fantastic submarine commanded by the mysterious Captain Nemo.  Suddenly a devastating explosion leaves just three survivors, who find themselves prisoners inside Nemo's death ship on an underwater odyssey around the world from the pearl-laden waters of Ceylon to the icy dangers of the South Pole . . .as Captain Nemo, one of the greatest villians ever created, takes his revenge on all society.

More than a marvelously thrilling drama, this classic novel, written in 1870, foretells with uncanny accuracy the inventions and advanced technology of the twentieth century and has become a literary stepping-stone for generations of science fiction writers.

Recommended for young adventurers 9 years and older.

Softcover, 448 pages.

Printed by Bantam Books in the United States.

About the Author:

Jules Verne was born in France in 1828 and died in 1905. His collaboration with the publisher Pierre-Jules Hetzel was wildly successful, producing many brilliant novels in the burgeoning genre of science fiction: 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, Journey to the Center of the Earth, and Around the World in 80 Days, among others. Verne is the second most translated author in the world, after Agatha Christie and before Shakespeare.

by Charles Kovacs

The first part of this book describes the different kinds of rocks, soil and mountains found on our planet, and explores how they came into being.  This section deals with the depths of the earth, and the long ages of time.

In contrast, the second part examines the heights of our universe, in the movement of the sun, moon and stars.  These bodies give us our sense of day, month and year.

Throughout, Kovacs links the phenomena he's describing with human experience, how they affect people in different parts of the world.

This is a resource for Steiner-Waldorf teachers for Classes 6 and 7 (age 11-13).

Softcover, 160 pages.

Floris Books.

Bud’s got an idea that those flyers will lead him to his father. Once he decides to hit the road to find this mystery man, nothing can stop him—not hunger, not fear, not vampires, not even Herman E. Calloway himself.

An excerpt from the book available at the publisher's website here.

Recommended for Grade 5 and up.

Hardcover, 288 pages. 5.7" x 8.6" x 1" thick.

Printed in the Unites States by Delcacorte Press.

Reviews:

“[A] powerfully felt novel.” —The New York Times AN ALA BEST BOOK FOR YOUNG ADULTS

AN ALA NOTABLE CHILDREN'S BOOK
AN IRA CHILDREN'S BOOK AWARD WINNER
NAMED TO 14 STATE AWARD LISTS
 
“The book is a gem, of value to all ages, not just the young people to whom it is aimed.” —The Christian Science Monitor
 
“Will keep readers engrossed from first page to last.” —Publishers Weekly, starred review
 
“Curtis writes with a razor-sharp intelligence that grabs the reader by the heart and never lets go. . . . This highly recommended title [is] at the top of the list of books to be read again and again.” —Voice of Youth Advocates, starred review

written & illustrated by Bei Lynn; translated by Helen Wang.

Bibbit Jumps is a charming illustrated chapter book for emerging readers about an enthusiastic frog who sometimes misses the mark.

Bibbit is a little frog who sometimes forgets how to swim — but he’s a jumping expert. He can jump very high, very far and in many different ways.  But sometimes he feels nervous about what the day might bring — unlike his little sister, who is ready for adventure.

Bibbit Jumps is a charming illustrated chapter book, full of rhythm and resonance, from Bei Lynn, one of Taiwan’s up-and-coming author–illustrators.

For young readers ages 5-7.

Hardcover.

Gecko Press.

Reviews:

"These charming stories with their lovely playful watercolour illustrations convey the importance of sibling relationships, friendships and how determination and perseverance help when facing up to fear and uncertainty." ~ Outside in the World

"These gentle stories might be about a little frog and his sister, but they reflect both the logic of the very youngest and the sort of everyday event that to a child are satisfying adventures." ~ Ibby UK

"The episodes are slight and only loosely connected but the mix of fear and excitement at all the new experiences and possibilities is child-like and the importance of perseverance shines through. The ink and watercolour illustrations are very appealing, full of expression and movement and they enhance the simple text. This translated chapter book for early readers has a whimsical and gently humorous tone and the endearing character of Bibbit should appeal to young readers." ~ Books for Keeps

Unpredictable, mysterious, awe-inspiring weather is one of the most important and closely observed forces of daily life. The third title in the Observer's Notebooks line is dedicated to weather in all its forms. Featuring a cloud atlas, snowflake typologies, rainbow diagrams, and stunning storm imagery, this distinctive specialty notebook is as instructive as it is beautiful. The striking cloth-covered journal is filled with an assortment of lined pages for writing, recording, and journaling and contains handy charts for weather forecasting and cloud observation.

Hardcover, 160 pages.  ~7 x 9 inches.

Princeton Architectural Press.  2017.

Whether you want to learn to identify a bird by its silhouette in the sky, or understand the remarkable variations in birds' beaks and feet, Birds is the perfect resource. Filled with lovely diagrams and drawings of bird anatomy, nests, eggs, habitats, and more, this durable notebook features 144 ruled and unruled pages to gather your observations or simply reflect on the wonders of the natural world.

Hardcover, 160 pages.  ~7 x 9 inches.

Princeton Architectural Press.  2019.

A beautifully packaged and illustrated nature-themed keepsake journal full of woodland wonders.

Immerse yourself in the forest among nature's creatures as you write in the Woodland Journal. Interspersed throughout its lined pages are charming original watercolor illustrations of mushrooms, wildflowers, frogs, ferns, butterflies, rabbits, and more. The foil-stamped cloth cover complements the whimsical endpapers, and a ribbon marker keeps your place.

The Woodland Journal is a sanctuary for writers, poets, journal keepers, and nature lovers who wish to enter the magical forest world and escape into their own imagination.

Hardcover, 160 pages.

~6 x 7.25 inches. 

Princeton Architectural Press.

The ideal creative gift for nature lovers and fans of adult coloring books, Drawing Trees is an innovative, meditative activity book that features traceable illustrations of thirty different types of trees, leaves, seeds, and flowers.

Drawing Trees provides guided illustration techniques for beginning artists looking for a relaxing new hobby. Tracing the lines of each tree, leaf, and seed is an exercise in mindfulness: notice where your mind wanders as you draw, losing yourself between pages of thick, durable FSC-certified paper. Each illustration is depicted in bright, grassy green, splashing each page with color and welcoming you to add your own details or hues.

These observational drawings are accompanied by detailed descriptions of the trees and plants they depict, teaching you how to identify these species out in the wild. Whether at home, on your lunch break, in a coffee shop, at the park, or out in the wilderness, this artistic and educational drawing guide will help soothe anxiety and encourage your creativity to grow.

PRAISE FOR DRAWING TREES...

"I’m enchanted by “Drawing Trees,” an elegantly designed book from Leah Koransky....Part meditation guide, part botany lesson, this book is a little copse of peace in a chaotic world."  – The Washington Post Book Club

Softcover, 144 pages.

~ 7.25 x 9.25 inches. 

Princeton Architectural Press.

The perfect gift for aspiring artists and fans of comics, graphic novels, and manga, this guided sketchbook provides templates for graphic storytelling, along with ideas, tips, and tricks from comic artists.

Whether you’re just getting into sketching or are a practiced artist, this colorful, engaging guided sketchbook provides a mini-course in graphic storytelling with blank templates to help you get started on your illustration journey.

Learn by example through artwork, tips, and tricks from seven established comic artists, all with differing styles and backgrounds. Explore the art of making comics via funny and engaging exercises that show you how to convey emotion, time, and perspective through drawing, sequencing, storytelling, and character creation. The expert guidance in this sketchbook will help you develop and expand your drawing and storytelling skills, allowing you to unleash your true artistic potential.

Contributors: Simon Bailly, Ruth Chan, Joel Christian Gill, Brian Herrick, Hyesu Lee, Dan Nott, and Daryl Seitchik.

Softcover, 144 pages.

~ 7 x 9 inches.

Princeton Architectural Press.

Written by Pavla Hanáčková
Illustrated by Diarmuid Ó Catháin

Recommended for ages 6-8 years.

A flightless bird that wishes to fly into space? Our kiwi bird Karl will show you that you can literally reach the stars, if you are determined and work hard to follow your dreams. Together with him, the readers will learn about rockets, space travel and space itself.

Is space the number one topic you’re interested in? Would you like to learn what breathtaking objects and man-made machines are flying around out there? Would you like to become an astronaut and see everything with your own eyes? Karl the kiwi bird is interested in just that. His biggest dream is to visit space as an astronaut.

Together you’ll learn many interesting things about all kinds of spacecraft. You’ll meet the most famous types and also catch a glimpse of what goes on before you even get to go to space—astronaut training and liftoff included! Join Karl in his spacecraft, get to know the solar system, and even more! Who knows what is hiding beyond our galaxy . . .

20 pages.  24.13 x 1.27 x 24.13 cm.

Albatros Media.

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