List

Category
Audience
Tags

A Place to Land

Barry Wittenstein

As a new generation of activists demands an end to racism, A Place to Land reflects on Martin Luther King, Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech and the movement that it galvanized.

Winner of the Orbis Pictus Award for Outstanding Nonfiction for Children
Selected for the Texas Bluebonnet Master List

Much has been written about Martin Luther King, Jr. and the 1963 March on Washington. But there's little on his legendary speech and how he came to write it.

Martin Luther King, Jr. was once asked if the hardest part of preaching was knowing where to begin. No, he said. The hardest part is knowing where to end. "It's terrible to be circling up there without a place to land."

Finding this place to land was what Martin Luther King, Jr. struggled with, alongside advisors and fellow speech writers, in the Willard Hotel the night before the March on Washington, where he gave his historic "I Have a Dream" speech. But those famous words were never intended to be heard on that day, not even written down for that day, not even once.

Barry Wittenstein teams up with legendary illustrator Jerry Pinkney to tell the story of how, against all odds, Martin found his place to land.

An ALA Notable Children's Book
A Capitol Choices Noteworthy Title
Nominated for an NAACP Image Award
A Bank Street Best Book of the Year
A Notable Social Studies Trade Book for Young People
A Booklist Editors' Choice
Named a Best Book of the Year by Publishers Weekly, Kirkus Reviews, and School Library Journal
Selected for the CBC Champions of Change Showcase

View Details >>

What Was the March on Washington?

Kathleen Krull

On August 28, 1963, more than 200,000 people gathered in Washington, DC, to demand equal rights for all races. It was there that Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his "I Have a Dream" speech, and it was this peaceful protest that spurred the momentous civil rights laws of the mid-1960s. With black-and-white artwork throughout and sixteen pages of photographs, the March is brought to life!

View Details >>

Martin & Mahalia: His Words, Her Song

Andrea Davis Pinkney


They were each born with the gift of gospel.

Martin's voice kept people in their seats, but also sent their praises soaring.
Mahalia's voice was brass-and-butter - strong and smooth at the same time.

With Martin's sermons and Mahalia's songs, folks were free to shout, to sing their joy.


On August 28, 1963, Martin Luther King, Jr. gave his famous "I Have a Dream" speech from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, and his strong voice and powerful message were joined and lifted in song by world-renowned gospel singer Mahalia Jackson. It was a moment that changed the course of history and is imprinted in minds forever. Told through Andrea Davis Pinkney's poetic prose and Brian Pinkney's evocative illustration, the stories of these two powerful voices and lives are told side-by-side -- as they would one day walk -- following the journey from their youth to a culmination at this historical event when they united as one and inspiring kids to find their own voices and speak up for what is right.

View Details >>

TV Exposes Brutality on the Selma March

Danielle Smith-Llera

On-point historical photographs combined with strong narration bring the story of the civil rights marches to life. Kids will learn about the way in which Southern states kept African Americans from voting and the history that led to nonviolent civil rights marches to fight for the right to vote guaranteed by the Constitution. As an added bonus, readers will learn about how this played out on TV and galvanized the civil rights movement, leading to the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Seeing the brutality on TV turned the fight for voting rights in the South into a national cause. Accompanying video will show readers what viewers saw at the time.

View Details >>

Freedom Walkers

Russell Freedman

A riveting account of the civil rights boycott that changed history by the foremost author of history for young people.

Now a classic, Freedman's book tells the dramatic stories of the heroes who stood up against segregation and Jim Crow laws in 1950s Alabama. A master of succinct historical narratives Freeman explains the contributions of and sacrifices made by Rosa Parks and Claudette Colvin, who refused give up their seats, to Jo Ann Robinson, who began the boycott, to Martin Luther King, Jr., whose leadership was instrumental is carrying it through, and others.

Full of eye-witness reports, iconic photographs from the era, and crucial primary sources, this work brings the narratives alive for contemporary readers. A Map, source notes, a bibliography, and other backmatter make is a valuable classroom resource. The book received five starred reviews, the Flora Stieglitz Straus Award, and Jane Addams Peace Association Honor Book Award among other honors.

View Details >>

Memphis, Martin, and the Mountaintop

Alice Faye Duncan

 

Coretta Scott King Illustrator Honor Book • School Library Journal Best Book of the Year • Booklist Editors' Choice • Kirkus Reviews Best Children's Book • Booklist Top 10 Diverse Books for Middle Grade or Older Readers • Chicago Public Library Best of the Best Books

This award-winning book will help kids understand the life and legacy of Civil Rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

★"(A) history that everyone should know: required and inspired." —Kirkus Reviews

This picture book tells the story of a nine-year-old girl who in 1968 witnessed the Memphis sanitation strike - Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s final stand for justice before his assassination - when her father, a sanitation worker, participated in the protest.

In February 1968, two African American sanitation workers were killed by unsafe equipment in Memphis, Tennessee. Outraged at the city's refusal to recognize a labor union that would fight for higher pay and safer working conditions, sanitation workers went on strike. The strike lasted two months, during which Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was called to help with the protests. While his presence was greatly inspiring to the community, this unfortunately would be his last stand for justice. He was assassinated in his Memphis hotel the day after delivering his "I've Been to the Mountaintop" sermon in Mason Temple Church. Inspired by the memories of a teacher who participated in the strike as a child, author Alice Faye Duncan reveals the story of the Memphis sanitation strike from the perspective of a young girl with a riveting combination of poetry and prose.

 

View Details >>

Rosa's Bus

Jo S. Kittinger

 

Here is the remarkable story of Bus #2857 and its passengers, including Rosa Parks, who changed history in Montgomery, Alabama, in December 1955. 
Like all buses in Montgomery, Alabama in the 1950s, bus #2857 was segregated: white passengers sat in the front, and Black passengers sat in the back. Bus #2857 was ordinary -- until a woman named Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat to a white passenger. Her arrest sparked the Montgomery Bus Boycott, a major event in the Civil Rights moment, which was led by a young minister named Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. For 382 days, Black passengers chose to walk rather than ride the buses in Montgomery. This picture book is told from the point of view of the bus, telling its story from the streets where it rode, to its present home in the Henry Ford Museum.

 

View Details >>

Child of the Civil Rights Movement

Paula Young Shelton

In this Bank Street College of Education Best Children's Book of the Year, Paula Young Shelton, daughter of Civil Rights activist Andrew Young, brings a child's unique perspective to an important chapter in America's history. Paula grew up in the deep south, in a world where whites had and blacks did not. With an activist father and a community of leaders surrounding her, including Uncle Martin (Martin Luther King), Paula watched and listened to the struggles, eventually joining with her family--and thousands of others--in the historic march from Selma to Montgomery.
Poignant, moving, and hopeful, this is an intimate look at the birth of the Civil Rights Movement.

View Details >>

Dream March

Vaunda Micheaux Nelson

Introduce children to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., the civil rights movement, and the historic march on Washington with this inspiring biography!

Young readers can now learn about one of the greatest civil rights leaders of all time, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., in this Level 3 Step into Reading Biography Reader. Set against Dr. King's historic march on Washington in the summer of 1963, a moving story and powerful illustrations combine to illuminate not only one of America's most celebrated leaders, but also one of America's most celebrated moments.

Step 3 Readers feature engaging characters in easy-to-follow plots about popular topics. Perfect for children who are ready to read on their own.

View Details >>

Sit-In

Andrea Davis Pinkney

It was February 1, 1960.
They didn't need menus. Their order was simple.
A doughnut and coffee, with cream on the side.

This picture book is a celebration of the 50th anniversary of the momentous Woolworth's lunch counter sit-in, when four college students staged a peaceful protest that became a defining moment in the struggle for racial equality and the growing civil rights movement.

Andrea Davis Pinkney uses poetic, powerful prose to tell the story of these four young men, who followed Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s words of peaceful protest and dared to sit at the "whites only" Woolworth's lunch counter. Brian Pinkney embraces a new artistic style, creating expressive paintings filled with emotion that mirror the hope, strength, and determination that fueled the dreams of not only these four young men, but also countless others.

View Details >>

History Smashers: Women's Right to Vote

Kate Messner

Myths! Lies! Secrets! Smash the stories behind famous moments in history and expose the hidden truth. Perfect for fans of I Survived and Nathan Hale's Hazardous Tales.

In 1920, Susan B. Anthony passed a law that gave voting rights to women in the United States. RIGHT?

WRONG! Susan B. Anthony wasn't even alive when the Nineteenth Amendment was ratified. Plus, it takes a lot more than one person to amend the constitution.

The truth is, it took millions of women to get that amendment into law. They marched! They picketed! They even went to jail. But in the end, it all came down to a letter from a state representative's mom. No joke.

Through illustrations, graphic panels, photographs, sidebars, and more, acclaimed author Kate Messner smashes history by exploring the little-known details behind the fight for women's suffrage.

Don't miss History Smashers: The Mayflower!

View Details >>

How Women Won the Vote

Susan Campbell Bartoletti

This is how history should be told to kids--with photos, illustrations, and captivating storytelling.

From Newbery Honor medalist Susan Campbell Bartoletti and in time to celebrate the 100th anniversary of women's suffrage in America comes the page-turning, stunningly illustrated, and tirelessly researched story of the little-known DC Women's March of 1913.

Bartoletti spins a story like few others--deftly taking readers by the hand and introducing them to suffragists Alice Paul and Lucy Burns. Paul and Burns met in a London jail and fought their way through hunger strikes, jail time, and much more to win a long, difficult victory for America and its women.

Includes extensive back matter and dozens of archival images to evoke the time period between 1909 and 1920.

View Details >>

Women's Suffrage

Nancy Ohlin

Blast back to the past and learn all about the women's suffrage movement.

When people think about the women's suffrage movement, things like voting rights and protests may come to mind. But what was the movement all about, and what social change did it bring? This engaging nonfiction book, complete with black-and-white interior illustrations, will make readers feel like they've traveled back in time. It covers everything from the history of women's rights in the U.S. to women's suffrage movements across the world, and more. Find out interesting, little-known facts such as how the suffragists were the first people to ever picket the White House and how the nineteenth amendment granting women the right to vote passed by only one vote when a legislator changed his vote to "yes" after receiving a letter from his mother telling him to "do the right thing." The unique details, along with the clever interior illustrations, make this series stand out from the competition.

View Details >>

Elizabeth Started All the Trouble

Doreen Rappaport

She couldn't go to college.

She couldn't become a politician.

She couldn't even vote.

But Elizabeth Cady Stanton didn't let that stop her.

She called on women across the nation to stand together and demand to be treated as equal to men-and that included the right to vote. It took nearly seventy-five years and generations of women fighting for their rights through words, through action, and through pure determination . . . for things to slowly begin to change.

With the help of these trailblazers' own words, Doreen Rappaport's engaging text, brought to life by Matt Faulkner's vibrant illustrations, shows readers just how far this revolution has come, and inspires them to keep it going!

Select praise for Doreen Rappaport:
Martin's Big Words
* 2002 Caldecott Honor Book
* 2002 Coretta Scott King Honor Book
* Child Magazine Best Book of 2001
* New York Times Book Review Best Illustrated Children's Book of 2001

* "A stunning, reverent tribute."
-School Library Journal, starred review

Abe's Honest Words
* "Exceptional art, along with Rappaport's and Lincoln's words, makes this a fine celebration of a man who needs little introduction."
-Booklist, starred review
Eleanor, Quiet No More
* "Once again Rappaport celebrates a noble, heroic life in powerful, succinct prose, with prominent, well-chosen, and judiciously placed quotes that both instruct and inspire...Celebrate women in history and in politics with this picture-book life."
-School Library Journal, starred review
Helen's Big World
* "Stirring and awe-inspiring."
-The Horn Book, starred review

To Dare Mighty Things
* "[T]his lavish picture-book biography deftly captures the legendary man's bold, exuberant nature. . . . A truly inspiring tribute to a seemingly larger-than-life U.S. president."
-Kirkus Reviews, starred review

* "Theodore Roosevelt's big ideas and big personality come together in this splendid picture-book biography."
-Booklist, starred review

* "Concisely written and yet poetic, this is a first purchase for every library."
-School Library Journal, starred review

View Details >>

Equality's Call

Deborah Diesen

Learn all about the history of voting rights in the United States—from our nation’s founding to the present day—in this powerful picture book from the New York Times bestselling author of The Pout-Pout Fish.

A right isn’t right
till it’s granted to all…

The founders of the United States declared that consent of the governed was a key part of their plan for the new nation. But for many years, only white men of means were allowed to vote. This unflinching and inspiring history of voting rights looks back at the activists who answered equality’s call, working tirelessly to secure the right for all to vote, and it also looks forward to the future and the work that still needs to be done.

View Details >>

Bold & Brave

Kirsten Gillibrand

 

The perfect read for the one-hundredth anniversary of the nineteenth amendment and in advance of the upcoming presidential election, this inspiring picture book from United States Senator Kirsten Gillibrand shares the stories of ten suffragists who fought for women's right to vote.
Bold & Brave introduces children to strong women who have raised their voices on behalf of justice--and inspires them to raise their own voices to build our future.

Here are the stories of ten leaders who strove to win the right to vote for American women--a journey that took more than seventy years of passionate commitment. From well-known figures, such as Susan B. Anthony and Sojourner Truth to lesser known women such as Alice Paul and Mary Church Terrell, these are heroes who dreamed big and never gave up. Senator Gillibrand highlights an important and pithy lesson from each woman's life--from "dare to be different" to "fight together."

With gorgeous illustrations by renowned artist Maira Kalman, this is a book that will inspire and uplift, a book to be cherished and shared.

The suffragists included are: Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Susan B. Anthony, Sojourner Truth, Harriet Tubman, Jovita Idár, Alice Paul, Inez Milholland, Ida B. Wells, Lucy Burns, and Mary Church Terrell.

 

View Details >>

Around America to Win the Vote

Mara Rockliff

The author of Mesmerized delivers another fascinating glimpse into history, this time the story of two brave suffragists on a trek across America to spread the word: Votes for Women!

In April 1916, Nell Richardson and Alice Burke set out from New York City in a little yellow car, embarking on a bumpy, muddy, unmapped journey ten thousand miles long. They took with them a teeny typewriter, a tiny sewing machine, a wee black kitten, and a message for Americans all across the country: Votes for Women! The women’s suffrage movement was in full swing, and Nell and Alice would not let anything keep them from spreading the word about equal voting rights for women. Braving blizzards, deserts, and naysayers—not to mention a whole lot of tires stuck in the mud—the two courageous friends made their way through the cities and towns of America to further their cause. One hundred years after Nell and Alice set off on their trip, Mara Rockliff revives their spirit in a lively and whimsical picture book, with exuberant illustrations by Hadley Hooper bringing their inspiring historical trek to life.

View Details >>

Miss Paul and the President

Dean Robbins

"Robbins makes clear for a quite young audience through both main narration and endnote that there were very specific obstacles that had to be overcome to extend the vote to women, and winning the endorsement of the president was a vital first step."
--The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

"A perfect introduction to a notable woman and her fight for a woman’s right to vote."
--School Library Journal


Cast your vote for Alice Paul! The story of a tireless suffragette and the president she convinced to change everything.

 
When Alice Paul was a child, she saw her father go off to vote while her mother had to stay home. But why should that be? So Alice studied the Constitution and knew that the laws needed to change. But who would change them?
 
She would! In her signature purple hat, Alice organized parades and wrote letters and protested outside the White House. She even met with President Woodrow Wilson, who told her there were more important issues to worry about than women voting. But nothing was more important to Alice. So she kept at it, and soon President Wilson was persuaded.
 
Dean Robbins and illustrator Nancy Zhang bring the unsung hero to vivid life and show young voters-to-be how important it is to never back down from a cause you believe in!

View Details >>

Voting for the President of the United States

Shannon H. Harts

Why is voting to choose the president of the United States important? What is the process and how has it changed? These essential questions and more are answered in this book, which will educate students about an important facet of citizenship. Complete with detailed descriptions, enlightening fact boxes, and engaging imagery, this book will guide readers through the steps and history of voting and introduce them to important historical figures. Equipped with the knowledge in this book, students will feel empowered to continue molding the nation's history through voting.

View Details >>

Presidential Nominations

Danielle Haynes

By the time the U.S. presidential election rolls around every four years, everyone knows who's in the running for office. But how are presidential candidates in the United States chosen? How do candidates get nominated, and what does a nomination mean? Can you become president without a nomination, and why or why not? Readers will learn about political parties, national conventions, special circumstances during nominations, and the history of presidential nominations. Primary sources and fact boxes add further historical and fascinating content.

View Details >>

Presidential Primaries and Caucuses

Danielle Haynes

"Primaries and caucuses are some of the first steps to becoming the president of the United States. Candidates who've announced their intention to run for this important office first have to convince members of their political party (and sometimes others) that they deserve a nomination. Primaries and caucuses help political parties choose their official party candidate. In this volume, readers will learn about the history of and key parts and processes associated with U.S. primaries and caucuses. Primary sources and informative fact boxes give historical context to these important events in the journey to becoming the president of the United States"--

View Details >>

Presidential Campaigns

Lisa McPartland

The position of president of the United States is an important one, but how does a person get elected president? First, people have to know who they are. To do that, candidates must announce their plan to run for a nomination and the presidency, and then they campaign. A perfect introduction for young readers, this book covers the details of the campaign trail, from grassroots organization to winning delegate support. Readers will learn about key historical figures in U.S. presidential elections. They will also learn how campaigns function today and the debates people have about whether they work well.

View Details >>

Inauguration Day

Danielle Haynes

An inauguration is the act of swearing an elected person into office. Inauguration Day is the day that the most important elected official in the United States, the president, takes office. Readers will learn about the history of Inauguration Day in the United States, key aspects of this important day, and how Inauguration Day has changed since 1789, when George Washington took office. Full-color photographs and primary sources help readers understand the importance and ceremony of Inauguration Day.

View Details >>

Fund-Raising for Presidential Candidates

Barbara Martina Linde

Have you ever wondered why presidential candidates need money for their campaigns? How do they get the funds they need to succeed in politics? This book focuses on how and where presidential candidates obtain the money to help them run for the country's highest office. Readers will learn about the history of campaign fund-raising and discover how candidates in different time periods approached it. They'll also learn about historical events, including a recent Supreme Court decision, that changed the nature of fund-raising. Timelines, graphic organizers, and colorful photographs help students visualize the concepts, and sidebars provide additional information to enhance the main narrative.

View Details >>

The Electoral College

Phil Corso

"The Electoral College is the body of people who elect the president and vice president of the United States. Many U.S. citizens are confused by this system, which dates back to the creation of the U.S. Constitution. When citizens vote for a presidential candidate, they're actually voting for an elector -- someone who will cast a vote for their state for that candidate in the Electoral College. This system is a controversial subject in American politics. In this book, primary sources and informative sidebars lend historical context to help young readers understand this essential aspect of U.S. presidential elections"--

View Details >>

Presidential Debates

Phil Corso

Every four years in the United States of America, candidates from different political parties stand in front of the nation to showcase their ideas and sell their visions of the future before Election Day. Presidential debates are a way for candidates to share their ideas, show how they are different from other candidates, and garner support from voters. This book outlines the history and background that make these debates so important to the American political process. Detailed fact boxes and pictures from some of the most consequential debates in history help readers make connections about this exciting aspect of U.S. presidential elections.

View Details >>

The Next President

Kate Messner

An inspiring and informative book for kids about the past and future of America's presidents.

Who will be the NEXT president? Could it be you? When George Washington became the first president of the United States, there were nine future presidents already alive in America, doing things like practicing law or studying medicine.

When JFK became the thirty-fifth president, there were 10 future presidents already alive in America, doing things like hosting TV shows and learning the saxophone.

And right now—today!—there are at least 10 future presidents alive in America. They could be playing basketball, like Barack Obama, or helping in the garden, like Dwight D. Eisenhower. They could be solving math problems or reading books. They could be making art—or already making change.

• A breezy, kid-friendly survey of American history and American presidents
• Great for teachers, librarians, and other educators
• Kate Messner's nonfiction picture books have been lauded by critics and received a variety of awards.

For young readers and students who loved The New Big Book of Presidents, Lincoln and Kennedy: A Pair to Compare, and Kid Presidents: True Tales of Childhood from America's Presidents.

A helpful addition to curriculums of 5th- to 8th-grade students studying U.S. History and civics and the federal government.

• For readers ages 8–12
• U.S. history for kids
• Students, librarians, teachers
• 5th–8th-grade kids

From award-winning author Kate Messner and New York Times bestselling artist Adam Rex comes a timely and compelling compendium about the U.S. presidents—before they were presidents.

Kate Messner is an award-winning author whose many books for kids have been selected as Best Books by the New York Times, Junior Library Guild, IndieBound, and Bank Street College of Education. She lives on Lake Champlain with her family.

Adam Rex is the author and illustrator of many beloved picture books and novels, including Nothing Rhymes with Orange and the New York Times bestseller Frankenstein Makes a Sandwich. He has worked with the likes of Jon Scieszka, Mac Barnett, Jeff Kinney, and Neil Gaiman. He lives in Tucson, Arizona.

View Details >>

Today on Election Day

Catherine Stier

The school gym is a polling place and Bailey, Ren, David, Meg, Aiden, and Isabella know all about Election Day and voting! Bailey helped her Aunt Julia run for a seat on the city council. Aiden goes with his grandpa to vote. David’s brother Jake will be voting for the first time. Meg talks about how years ago, some citizens were not permitted to vote. A perfect picture book for future voters of America, Today on Election Day will simultaneously entertain and educate.

View Details >>

When You Grow Up to Vote

Eleanor Roosevelt

Eleanor Roosevelt’s book on citizenship for young people now revised and updated for a contemporary audience.

In the voice of one of the most iconic and beloved political figures of the twentieth century comes a book on citizenship for the future voters of the twenty-first century. Eleanor Roosevelt published the original edition of When You Grow Up to Vote in 1932, the same year her husband was elected president. The new edition has updated information and back matter as well as fresh, bold art from award-winning artist Grace Lin. Beginning with government workers like firefighters and garbage collectors, and moving up through local government to the national stage, this book explains that the people in government work the voter.

Fresh, contemporary, and even fun, When You Grow Up to Vote is the book parents and teachers need to talk to children about how our government is designed to work.

View Details >>

I Voted

Mark Shulman

As we approach the 2022 midterm elections, this witty, nonpartisan book will help explain the concept of voting to the youngest readers.

I Voted explains the concept of choosing, individually, and as a group, from making a simple choice: "Which do you like better, apples or oranges?", to selecting a class pet, to even more complicated decisions, like electing community representatives.

You may not always get want you want, but there are strategies to better your odds!

Serge Bloch's effortless and charming illustrations paired with Mark Shulman's funny and timely text create a perfect resource for discussing current events with your children.

Backmatter includes information about the United States electoral process.

Selected for the CBC Champions of Change Showcase
A Junior Library Guild Selection
A Bank Street Best Children's Book of the Year!

View Details >>

Elections: Why They Matter to You (a True Book: Why It Matters) (Library Edition)

John Son

How can you directly impact the government? Vote

A True Book: Why it Matters series introduces young readers to the branches of the US government, the constitution and more, while engaging them to become productive citizens. This series includes an age appropriate (grades 3-5) introduction to curriculum-relevant subjects and a robust resource section that encourages independent study.

Elections are part of the foundation of our democracy. Readers learn how elections work, whether its voting on local rules or electing the President of the United States. The book also highlights why voting is so very important and how kids can become involved, even when they're still years from casting their first vote.

View Details >>

We Elect a President

Tara Ross

America's unique presidential election system is often misunderstood-and perhaps especially hard to explain to our children. "We Elect a President: The Story of Our Electoral College" will help you and your family discover more about the Electoral College and its remarkable history. Why was it created in the first place? Does it still work today? Written in straightforward language and complemented with playful illustrations, "We Elect a President" explains how the Electoral College works and why it is still needed in a great, diverse country such as our own: As the Founders intended, the system continues to protect our republic and promote our liberty. "We Elect a President" is written by Electoral College expert Tara Ross and illustrated by Kate E. Cooper. It presents a fun, yet educational way to learn more about America's too-often misunderstood presidential election system.

View Details >>

One Vote, Two Votes, I Vote, You Vote

Bonnie Worth

The Cat in the Hat looks at how, why, and who we vote for in a rhyming, nonfiction book that's perfect for Election Day, President's Day, and year-round reading--now with 16 bonus-pages of kid-friendly voting activities!

Written in simple rhyme, this Cat in the Hat's Learning Library Book introduces early readers to the concept and practice of voting--with a focus on the American Presidency! Revised to include 16 pages of activities showing kids how to hold their own elections, it's an ideal choice for reading and talking about voting--whether for classroom pet or leader of the free world! Readers will learn the basic principles of democracy; how political parties are made; why Election Day is held in early November; and much more. Fans of the hit PBS show The Cat in the Hat Knows a Lot About That! will be delighted to see the Cat knows as much about history and civic responsiblity as he does about science!

View Details >>

Vote!

Eileen Christelow

Using a town's mayoral election as a model, this lively introduction to voting covers every step in the process, from the start of the campaign all the way to the voting booth. There's even a recount! The cast of characters includes two dogs (and a cat), whose questions and comments mirror those of young readers and help to explain some of an election's more confusing aspects. Told with clarity and wit in Eileen Christelow's signature comic-book style and vetted by an expert in voter education, this look at how we choose our leaders turns an often daunting topic into an exciting narrative. Who would have guessed that learning about voting could be so much fun?
A timeline of the history of voting in the United States, a glossary of words associated with voting, a discussion of American political parties, and a list of Internet resources are included.

View Details >>

Presidential Elections and Other Cool Facts

Syl Sobel

With this year's Democratic and Republican primaries being hotly contested, the 2016 presidential race is gearing up to be the most pivotal election this country has had in generations. Kids, parents, and teachers will certainly be discussing the election through November. So now is the perfect time to introduce Presidential Elections and Other Cool Facts to young readers. Children will be fascinated by the history they'll find in this book, including riveting facts about everything from George Washington's election in 1789 to Barack Obama's victories in 2008 and 2012. Questions asked and topics explored include:

  • Who can run for president?
  • Who can vote?
  • What is the Electoral College?
  • What is a third-party candidate?
  • Which Republican president had a Democrat for his vice president?
  • Who was the only U.S. president to be elected for more than two terms?
  • Which candidates have won the popular vote but lost the election?
  • Why was President Truman happy in 1948, when he read the Chicago Tribune headline that declared: "Dewey Defeats Truman"?


This book brings history and social studies classes to life as boys and girls learn about important people, places, and events in the history of presidential elections.

View Details >>

Becoming President

Michael Rajczak

Becoming one of the most powerful leaders in the world is enticing, but the path to US president is a difficult one. The campaign may be years long, and financing is complicated. While running for student council president or other major student leadership position may not cost as much, preparation for the job can also be daunting. This book not only introduces readers to the process of becoming the US president, but also guides them through their own campaign. The main content relates the electoral process to readers’ lives whenever possible, including sidebars written for ambitious students eager to lead.

View Details >>

Democracy for Dinosaurs

Laurie Krasny Brown

From the bestselling, trusted team behind the Dino Tales: Life Guides for Families series (1.5 million copies sold life to date!) comes this introductory guide that encourages even the littlest ones to become engaged citizens. Using a direct style and kid-friendly dinosaur art as an entry point into tough but important topics is the Dino Tales formula for success. Democracy for Dinosaurs takes key values on every parent's mind and gives them tools to showyoung readers how things they do every single day can be guided by principles we must share in a democratic society: freedom, fairness, the rule of law, equality, respect for free speech, and respect for the truth. By modeling accessible ways to practice being a good citizen, kids will see they are part of their country and that they have an important role to play. Other Dino Tales: Life Guides for FamiliesHow to Be a FriendDinosaurs DivorceWhen Dinosaurs Die

View Details >>

Baby Loves Political Science: Democracy!

Ruth Spiro

Is your future voter election-day ready?

This cute and clever addition to the best-selling Baby Loves series offers an introduction to political science that is accurate and simple enough for baby, ready to teach toddlers what makes a great democracy.


Baby learns what it means to participate in a democracy where everyone has a voice in electing our leaders. There are many ways for all of us, including the youngest children, to participate--such as making signs and sending postcards, campaigning, attending rallies, and of course getting out the vote!

View Details >>

Vote for Our Future!

Margaret McNamara

In this charming and powerful picture book about voting and elections, the students of Stanton Elementary School learn how we can find--and use--our voices for change.

Every two years, on the first Tuesday of November, Stanton Elementary School closes for the day. For vacation? Nope! For repairs? No way! Stanton Elementary School closes so that it can transform itself into a polling station. People can come from all over to vote for the people who will make laws for the country. Sure, the Stanton Elementary School students might be too young to vote themselves, but that doesn't mean they can't encourage their parents, friends, and family to vote! After all, voting is how this country sees change--and by voting today, we can inspire tomorrow's voters to change the future.

View Details >>

Understanding How You Can Help

Emma Carlson Berne

What do taxes, jury duty, and being good citizens have to do with helping our government? Using engaging, age-appropriate language and colorful photos, readers understand our responsibilities as American citizens and learn how to take active roles in our government.

View Details >>

I Am a Good Citizen

Jenny Fretland VanVoorst

What does it mean to be a good citizen? What can kids do to become one? In this book, beginning readers will learn how they can help out to make their community a better place!

View Details >>

Do Something for Others

Anders Hanson

Learn how to support your community! Do Something for Others: the Kids' Book of Citizenship will teach kids to follow the rules, be respectful and tolerant, take care of the environment and help others. This book will show kids how to use compassion, respect, responsibility, and honesty with those around them. Simple text and charming pictures will keep kids interested while they learn. It's never too early to help kids stand up for what is right. Aligned to Common Core standards and correlated to state standards. Super Sandcastle is an imprint of Abdo Publishing, a division of ABDO.

View Details >>

Bad Kitty for President (paperback black-and-white edition)

Nick Bruel

The votes are in--it's a Bad Kitty landslide!

It's time to elect a new president of the Neighborhood Cat Coalition! Who will win the election? The candidate chosen by the kitties on the right side of the street or the candidate chosen by the kitties on the left side of the street? When election time rolls around, one candidate (guess who?) will discover that she never bothered to register to vote and the entire election will be decided by a surprise, last minute absentee ballot sent by Old Kitty.

View Details >>

Grace for President (new jacket)

Kelly S. DiPucchio

"Where are the girls?" When Grace's teacher reveals that the United States has never had a female president, Grace decides to be the first. And she immediately starts off her political career as a candidate the school's mock election! Author Kelly DiPucchio not only gives readers a fun introduction to the American electoral system, but also teaches them the value of hard work, courage, and independent thought--and offers an inspiring example of how to choose our leaders.

View Details >>

Babymouse #16: Babymouse for President

Jennifer L. Holm

Meet Babymouse—the spunky mouse beloved by young readers for more than a decade! It’s election season and Babymouse is ready to be your next student council president! But the competition is fierce—can Babymouse get the votes? This groundbreaking young graphic novel series, full of humor and fun, is a bestseller that’s sold more than three million copies!
 
"Move over, Superman, here comes Babymouse!"—The Chicago Sun-Times

A Cupcake in every locker!
It's election season and if anyone knows what this country . . . er, what the student council needs, it's Babymouse. The only trouble is, everyone else is running for President, too—even Babymouse's locker! Will Felicia Furrypaws turn out the meangirl coalition? Does Babymouse have what it takes to become the voice of the people? Find out in Babymouse for President—the 16th hilarious, action-packed installment of the beloved Babymouse graphic novel series!

DON'T MISS The BIG Adventures of Babymouse: Once Upon a Messy Whisker, the newest, brightest, and BIGGER THAN EVER graphic novel from BABYMOUSE!

View Details >>

Smek for President! (Smek Smeries, Book 2)

Adam Rex

In this much-anticipated sequel to The True Meaning of Smekday, which inspired the blockbuster feature film Home, Tip and J.Lo are back for another hilarious intergalactic adventure!
After Tip and J.Lo banished the Gorg from Earth, the pair is notorious--but not for their heroics. Instead, human Dan Landry has taken credit for conquering the Gorg, and the aliens known as the Boov blame J.Lo for ruining their colonization of the planet. Determined to clear his name, J.Lo and Tip head to New Boovworld, the aliens' new home on one of Saturn's moons. But their welcome isn't quite as warm as Tip and J.Lo would have liked, since J.Lo is now dubbed Public Enemy Number One.

With the help of a friendly flying billboard named Bill, a journey through various garbage chutes, a bit of time travel, and a slew of hilarious Boovish accents, Tip and J.Lo must fight to set the record straight and return home in one piece.

"This sequel shares the strengths of its predecessor: the loving friendship between Tip and J.Lo, the respect for the absurd, and the social consciences of the teen protagonist and her ET BFF."--Kirkus Reviews

Don't miss the front story in this intergalactic adventure, The True Meaning of Smekday

View Details >>

President Squid

Aaron Reynolds

Join Aaron Reynolds and Sara Varon as they explore the ideal qualities of leaders, diplomats...and giant squid. Squid knows all about being president. It means living in a big house, doing all the talking—oh, and having a tie is crucial. He's all set! In the next election, make a more informed choice. Vote for President Squid!

View Details >>

Splat the Cat for President

Rob Scotton

New York Times bestselling author-artist Rob Scotton is back with another story about Splat the Cat, and this time your favorite frazzled cat is running for office.

Splat is thrilled to be elected student-body president, until he discovers not everyone likes his plans. So he thinks big. Real big. So big that pretty soon he’s making promises he cannot keep. Can Splat please everyone and also make a difference?

Read about Splat’s biggest role yet in Splat the Cat for President, another sure-to-be-a-classic story by Rob Scotton.

View Details >>

Snoopy for President!

Charles M. Schulz

Vote for Snoopy in this 8x8 storybook just in time for the 2016 Presidential election season!

Pigpen and Linus are running against each other for class president, and they each decide to get their photos taken with a dog to improve their likability. But after the photos, Snoopy realizes he’s popular enough to run on his own! Good Grief! Can a dog even be elected class president? Looks like Snoopy can!

© 2016 Peanuts Worldwide LLC

View Details >>

Pedro, candidato a presidente

Fran Manushkin

Pedro and his friend Katie Woo are both running for class president. Pedro knows he can do great things for his class, if only he gets past that speech! A glossary and discussion questions make this early reader from Fran Manushkin a great choice for libraries..

View Details >>

The President of the Jungle

André Rodrigues

In this fabulous and funny introduction to how elections work, the animals decide they are tired of their king and that it is time to vote for a president.

Lion may be King of the jungle, but lately he only seems to care about himself. His subjects are fed up, so they decide to try something new--hold an election! Once Owl explains the rules, the fun begins, and Snake, Sloth, and Monkey all announce they will be candidates. But oh no, Lion is going to run too! It's a wild campaign season as the animals hold rallies, debate, and even take a selfie or two, trying to prove why they'd make the best president of the jungle.

This funny, non-partisan story features lively illustrations, a helpful glossary, and colorful characters who have an infectious enthusiasm for the election process.

View Details >>

Vote for Me!

Ben Clanton

Hey, you! Yes, you with the dazzling smile! The donkey wants your vote. So does the elephant. And each will do just about anything to win your support. Brag? Sure! Flatter? Absolutely! Exaggerate, name-call, make silly promises and generally act childish? Yes, yes, yes and yes. Soon, the tension mounts, and these two quarrelsome candidates resort to slinging mud (literally) and flinging insults. And what happens when the election results are in? Well, let's just say the donkey and the elephant are in for a little surprise --- and a certain bewhiskered, third-party candidate is in for a first term.

Vote for Me! is a timely satire of American politics, but it's a story readers of all nationalities and ages will recognize. Comical, retro illustrations (in shades of blue and red, of course) are completely winning, and the duelling duo's insult-laden exchanges promise to have readers laughing out loud.

View Details >>

Amelia Bedelia's First Vote

Herman Parish

Amelia Bedelia is sure she will love everything about school election day.

The fun choices
Having a voice
Running for office
Working together
Voting

Amelia Bedelia can’t wait.
What could be better?
Hooray for school!
Hooray for elections!
Hooray for voting!

Amelia Bedelia has been making readers laugh since 1963, when the first Amelia Bedelia book was published. Now, for the first time, you can meet the young Amelia Bedelia. Come join the fun!

View Details >>

After the Fall (How Humpty Dumpty Got Back Up Again)

Dan Santat

A inspiring story of triumph and overcoming fears, perfect for graduations and new beginnings!
This uplifting twist to the beloved classic nursery rhyme is by the New York Times–bestselling creator of Caldecott Medal winner, The Adventures of Beekle: The Unimaginary Friend .

Everyone knows that when Humpty Dumpty sat on a wall, Humpty Dumpty had a great fall. But what happened after?

Caldecott Medalist Dan Santat's poignant tale follows Humpty Dumpty, an avid bird watcher whose favorite place to be is high up on the city wall—that is, until after his famous fall. Now terrified of heights, Humpty can longer do many of the things he loves most.

Will he summon the courage to face his fear?

After the Fall (How Humpty Dumpty Got Back Up Again) is a masterful picture book that will remind readers of all ages that Life begins when you get back up.

Share this book with readers seeking:
- Gentle and inspirational stories about coping with anxiety.
- Themes about new beginnings and overcoming obstacles in life.
- Stories that celebrate accomplishments and triumph.
- Family favorite books that become household classics.
- A graduation story to share with students, teachers, and recent graduates young and old.

2018 NCTE Charlotte Huck Award Winner
A Kirkus Reviews Best Picture Book of 2017
A New York Times Notable Children's Book of 2017
A New York City Public Library Notable Best Book for Kids
A Chicago Public Library Best Book of 2017
A Horn Book Fanfare Best Book of 2017
An NPR Best Book of 2017

View Details >>

I Will Be Fierce

Bea Birdsong

Written by Bea Birdsong and illustrated by Nidhi Chanani, I Will Be Fierce is a powerful picture book about courage, confidence, kindness, and finding the extraordinary in everyday moments.

Today, I will be fierce!

It's a brand new day, and a young girl decides to take on the world like a brave explorer heading off on an epic fairytale quest. From home to school and back again, our hero conquers the Mountain of Knowledge (the library), forges new bridges (friendships), and leads the victorious charge home on her steed (the school bus).

A 2020 Southern Book Prize Finalist

View Details >>

The Dot

Peter Reynolds

With a simple, witty story and free-spirited illustrations, Peter H. Reynolds entices even the stubbornly uncreative among us to make a mark - and follow where it takes us.

Her teacher smiled. "Just make a mark and see where it takes you."

Art class is over, but Vashti is sitting glued to her chair in front of a blank piece of paper. The words of her teacher are a gentle invitation to express herself. But Vashti can’t draw - she’s no artist. To prove her point, Vashti jabs at a blank sheet of paper to make an unremarkable and angry mark. "There!" she says.

That one little dot marks the beginning of Vashti’s journey of surprise and self-discovery. That special moment is the core of Peter H. Reynolds’s delicate fable about the creative spirit in all of us.

View Details >>

The Girl who Never Made Mistakes

Mark Pett

Every student, teacher, and perfectionist needs to read this book about learning and growing from your mistakes! The perfect introduction to growth mindset, The Girl Who Never Made Mistakes is:

  • A growth mindset book for kids
  • A teacher must-have for classrooms
  • An educational book for ages 4-8 (and for everyone learning growth mindset!)

Beatrice Bottomwell has NEVER (not once!) made a mistake. She never forgets her math homework, she never wears mismatched socks, and she ALWAYS wins the yearly talent show at school. In fact, the entire town calls her The Girl Who Never Makes Mistakes!

One day, the inevitable happens: Beatrice makes a huge mistake in front of everyone!

But in the end, readers (and perfectionists) will realize that life is more fun when you enjoy everything--even the mistakes.

Additional praise for The Girl Who Never Made Mistakes:

"Beatrice offers a lesson we could all benefit from: learn from your mistakes, let go, laugh, and enjoy the ride."--JENNIFER FOSBERRY, New York Times bestselling author of My Name Is Not Isabella

"Beatrice's discovery that you can laugh off even a very public mistake shows the importance of resiliency and helps perfectionist kids keep things in perspective. Most importantly, Beatrice reminds the reader that it's more important to enjoy the things that you do than worry about doing them perfectly."--A Mighty Girl

"The Girl Who Never Made Mistakes is a must-read for any young (or old!) perfectionist. Beatrice Bottomwell is perfectly imperfect!"--Stephanie Oppenheim, Oppenheim Toy Portfolio

"It's fun and instructive without feeling overly didactic and the illustrations are darling."--Parenting

"This book will help little perfectionists see that making mistakes is okay, and it can be a lot of fun too!"--Kids Book Blog

View Details >>

The Book of Mistakes

Corinna Luyken

 

Zoom meets Beautiful Oops! in this memorable picture book debut about the creative process, and the way in which "mistakes" can blossom into inspiration
One eye was bigger than the other.  That was a mistake.
The weird  frog-cat-cow thing? It made an excellent bush.
And the inky smudges… they look as if they were always meant to be leaves floating gently across the sky.


As one artist incorporates accidental splotches, spots, and misshapen things into her art, she transforms her piece in quirky and unexpected ways, taking readers on a journey through her process. Told in minimal, playful text, this story shows readers that even the biggest “mistakes” can be the source of the brightest ideas—and that, at the end of the day, we are all works in progress, too.

Fans of Peter Reynolds’s Ish and Patrick McDonnell’s A Perfectly Messed-Up Story will love the funny, poignant, completely unique storytelling of The Book of Mistakes. And, like Oh, The Places You’ll Go!, it makes the perfect graduation gift, encouraging readers to have a positive outlook as they learn to face life’s obstacles.

 

View Details >>

Everyone Can Learn to Ride a Bicycle

Chris Raschka

“[Raschka's] marvelous sequences, fluid style, and emotional intelligence capture all of the momentum and exhilaration of this glorious accomplishment,” raves School Library Journal in a starred review.

Learning to ride a bike is one of the most important milestones of childhood, and no one captures the emotional ups and downs of the experience better than Chris Raschka, who won the 2012 Caldecott Medal for A Ball for Daisy. In this simple yet emotionally rich "guide," a father takes his daughter through all the steps in the process—from choosing the perfect bicycle to that triumphant first successful ride. Using very few words and lots of expressive pictures, here is a picture book that not only shows kids how to learn to ride, but captures what it feels like to fall . . . get up . . . fall again . . . and finally "by luck, grace, and determination" ride a bicycle!

View Details >>

Your Mind is Like the Sky

Bronwen Ballard

Your mind is like the sky. Sometimes it's clear and blue - but sometimes a raincloud thought comes along and makes everything seem dark. So what can we do about rainclouds? This beautiful picture book, written by psychologist Bronwen Ballard and illustrated by award-winning artist Laura Carlin, shows children that worries and negative thoughts are normal and helps them develop healthy thinking habits. Tips on mindfulness and extra resources for parents are included at the back of the book.

View Details >>

What to Do when You Worry Too Much

Dawn Huebner

A Gold NAPPA (National Parenting Publications Awards) winner

Did you know that worries are like tomatoes? No, you can't eat them, but you can make them grow, simply by paying attention to them. If your worries have grown so big that they bother you almost every day, this book is for you.

What to Do When You Worry Too Much guides children and parents through the cognitive-behavioral techniques most often used in the treatment of anxiety. Lively metaphors and humorous illustrations make the concepts and strategies easy to understand, while clear how-to steps and prompts to draw and write help children to master new skills related to reducing anxiety. This interactive self-help book is the complete resource for educating, motivating, and empowering kids to overcoming their overgrown worries.

Engaging, encouraging, and easy to follow, this book educates, motivates, and empowers children to work towards change. Includes a note to parents by psychologist and author Dawn Huebner, PhD.

From the Note to Parents:

If you are the parent or caregiver of an anxious child, you know what it feels like to be held hostage. So does your child. Children who worry too much are held captive by their fears. They go to great lengths to avoid frightening situations, and ask the same anxiety-based questions over and over again. Yet the answers give them virtually no relief. Parents and caregivers find themselves spending huge amounts of time reassuring, coaxing, accommodating, and doing whatever else they can think of to minimize their child's distress.

But it doesn't work. The anxiety remains in control. As you have undoubtedly discovered, simply telling an anxious child to stop worrying doesn't help at all. Nor does applying adult logic, or allowing your child to avoid feared situations, or offering reassurance every time the fears are expressed.

This book is part of the Magination Press What-to-Do Guides for Kids(R) series and includes an "Introduction to Parents and Caregivers." What-to-Guides for Kids(R) are interactive self-help books designed to guide 6-12 year olds and their parents through the cognitive-behavioral techniques most often used in the treatment of various psychological concerns. Engaging, encouraging, and easy to follow, these books educate, motivate, and empower children to work towards change.

View Details >>

A Feel Better Book for Little Worriers

Holly Brochmann

The rhyming narration helps little kids to identify a worry and provides them with helpful tools to reduce and cope with worries.

Worries can feel like a BIG problem to a LITTLE kid! A Feel Better Book for Little Worriers assures kids that having some worries is normal -- everyone has them, even adults!

The rhyming narration helps little kids to identify a worry and where it might come from, as well as provides them with helpful tools to reduce and cope with worries.

Includes a Note to Parents and Caregivers that expands on the cognitive-behavioral science behind the strategies and tools presented in the book, with more information on how you can help your little worrier to stay calm.

From the Note to Parents and Caregivers:

Imagine if the skills for managing stress and anxiety were learned in early childhood. Children as young as three years old who are experiencing anxious feelings for the first time could ease their worries by practicing proper breathing and relaxation techniques.. Teaching these skills early in a child's life will not only establish confidence and courage, but will set the foundation for managing
anxiety that can transition well into adulthood.

How This Book Can Help

A Feel Better Book for Little Worriers offers an interactive approach that not only teaches little worriers to recognize anxiety as it's happening, but provides them with simple coping mechanisms they will look forward to practicing day after day. Each verse offers a valuable lesson. Whether using this book at home, school, or in a clinical setting, these lessons can be put to use in a multitude of ways.

View Details >>

Mindful Bea and the Worry Tree

Gail Silver

Bea is anxiously waiting for her friends to show up for her birthday party. When the worries start to grow around her like tree branches, she uses breathing exercises and visualization techniques to calm herself down.

Bea asks herself questions like, "What if my friends don't like the games?" Her stomach flip-flops and she feels shaky. She tries to run away from the thoughts in the worry tree, but it doesn't work! Bea uses deep-breathing exercises and visualization techniques to calm herself down.

​Includes a Note to Parents and Caregivers by Ara Schmitt, PhD about the ways in which kids can respond to their anxious thoughts.

View Details >>

Worries Are Not Forever

Elizabeth Verdick

Give young children strategies to ease anxieties and worries and feel better again.

Everyone feels worried at times, and young children are no exception. Friendly and reassuring, this book geared to preschool and primary children explains what worries are and how it feels to be worried. The book assures children that lots of kids--and grown-ups--feel worried, and that they can learn to make their worries "smaller and smaller and smaller." Talking about worries, moving around, keeping hands busy, breathing deeply, getting a big hug, and thinking good thoughts are all ways for children to cope with worries. The book includes a special section for parents and caregivers with activities and discussion starters.

Best Behavior(R) Series
The Best Behavior series uses simple words and delightful full-color illustrations to guide children to choose peaceful, positive behaviors. Select titles are available in two versions: a durable board book for ages baby-preschool, and a longer, more in-depth paperback for ages 4-7. Kids, parents, and teachers love these award-winning books. All include helpful tips and ideas for parents and caregivers.

View Details >>

What If ...?

Anthony Browne

Young worriers will relate to -- and be comforted by -- this tale of a boy's anxiety as he heads to his first big party.

What if Joe doesn't like the party he's going to? What if he doesn't like the food or the games or the people? As Joe and his mom walk down the darkening street, Joe's imagination starts to run wild. And as they search for the right place, he wonders "what if . . ." at each house, peeking in to see some surprising sights. From the award-winning former British Children's Laureate Anthony Browne comes a picture book whose slyly bewitching setup unfolds to a reassuring ending.

View Details >>

Jack's Worry

Sam Zuppardi

A touching and reassuring story about the jitters associated with first experiences — and the satisfaction that comes with conquering your fears.

Jack loves playing the trumpet, and for weeks he’s been looking forward to taking part in his first concert. But on the morning of the big day, Jack finds he has a Worry. And his Worry starts to grow. Even when Jack’s mother calls him for a special breakfast, even when he hides under the bed or runs around the yard, his Worry follows him. Suddenly, when it’s almost time to leave for the concert, Jack finds it’s all too much. For anyone who’s ever been afraid of failing at something new, this book offers just what’s needed to shrink a Worry down to size.

View Details >>

The Worry Box

Suzanne Chiew

Murray Bear is supposed to go to the waterfall with his sister, Molly, to meet a friend, but Murray is worried. "What if it's too LOUD?" he cries "Or what if I get swept away!" So Molly tells him about her special worry box. "When I'm worried about something," she says, "I write it down, then put it inside." She offers to help make one for Murray, and he takes it on their journey-but will it really help?

View Details >>

What Do You Do with a Problem?

Kobi Yamada

"What do you do with a problem? Especially one that follows you around and doesn't seem to be going away? Do you worry about it? Ignore it? Do you run and hide from it? This is the story of a persistent problem and the child who isn't so sure what to make of it. The longer the problem is avoided, the bigger it seems to get. But when the child finally musters up the courage to face it, the problem turns out to be something quite different than it appeared. This is a story for anyone, at any age, who has ever had a problem that they wished would go away. It's a story to inspire you to look closely at that problem and to find out why it's here. Because you might discover something amazing about your problem and yourself. What are problems for? They challenge us, shape us, push us, and help us to discover just how strong and brave and capable we really are. Even though we don't always want them, problems have a way of bringing unexpected gifts. So, what will you do with your problem?"--Provided by publisher.

View Details >>

Ruby Finds a Worry

Tom Percival

The beloved picture book about what to do when a worry won't leave you at alone -- perfect for reassuring young readers in times of stress.

Meet Ruby -- a happy, curious, imaginative young girl. But one day, she finds something unexpected: a Worry. It's not such a big Worry, at first. But every day, it grows a little bigger . . . and a little bigger . . . . Until eventually, the Worry is ENORMOUS and is all she can think about.

But when Ruby befriends a young boy, she discovers that everyone has worries, and not only that, there's a great way to get rid of them too . . . she just has to share her feelings.

This perceptive and poignant story is the perfect springboard for talking to children about emotions and anxieties.

The Big Bright Feelings picture book series provides kid-friendly entry points into emotional intelligence topics -- from being true to yourself to dealing with worries, managing anger, and making friends. These topics can be difficult to talk about. But these books act as sensitive and reassuring springboards for conversations about mental and emotional health, positive self-image, building self-confidence, and managing feelings.

Read all the books in the Big Bright Feelings series!

Ruby Finds a Worry
Perfectly Norman
Ravi's Roar
Meesha Makes Friends
Tilda Tries Again

View Details >>

Happy!

Pharrell Williams

 

 

Grammy Award winner Pharrell Williams's super-hit song “Happy” is now a picture bookNominated for an Academy Award in 2014, “Happy” hit number one on Billboard’s Hot 100 list, and has topped the charts in more than seventy-five countries worldwide. Now Pharrell Williams brings his beloved song to the youngest of readers in photographs of children across cultures celebrating what it means to be happy. All the exuberance of the song pulses from these vibrant photographs of excited, happy kids. This is a picture book full of memorable, precious childhood moments that will move readers in the same way they were moved by the song.
 
“Happy” has had the world dancing ever since it first hit the airwaves, and now the irresistibly cheerful tune will come to life on the page with Pharrell Williams’s very first picture book! A keepsake and true classic in the making.

 

 

View Details >>

Happy

Emma Dodd

This addition to Emma Dodd’s much-loved sequence of animal books features a tenderly composed rhyming text, heartwarming illustrations, and flurries of foil throughout. Exploring the loving relationship between one little owl and his mommy, this beautifully designed picture book is certain to become a bedtime favorite.

View Details >>

Perfect Square

Michael Hall

A perfect square is transformed in this adventure story that will transport you far beyond the four equal sides of this square book.

View Details >>

My Heart Fills with Happiness

Monique Gray Smith

★ "A quiet loveliness, sense of gratitude, and--yes--happiness emanate from this tender celebration of simple pleasures."--Publishers Weekly, starred review

The sun on your face. The smell of warm bannock baking in the oven. Holding the hand of someone you love. What fills your heart with happiness? This beautiful board book, with illustrations from celebrated artist Julie Flett, serves as a reminder for little ones and adults alike to reflect on and cherish the moments in life that bring us joy.

International speaker and award-winning author Monique Gray Smith wrote My Heart Fills with Happiness to support the wellness of Indigenous children and families, and to encourage young children to reflect on what makes them happy.

View Details >>

Have You Filled a Bucket Today?

Carol McCloud

"Children are not the only ones that need to learn how to be truly happy. It's all in the bucket, that invisible bucket that follows you everywhere... teaches young readers valuable lessons about giving, sharing, and caring. This guide to daily happiness, though, is not just for kids. We all need reminders of the benefits of positive thinking and positive behavior. It's an important lesson to teach and remind us all . . . that showing kindness and appreciation of others goes a long way to making this world a happier place for everyone, including ourselves. A classic tale, beautifully told and beautifully shared." --Emily-Jane Hills Orford, Readers' Favorite Book Reviews

While using a simple metaphor of a bucket and a dipper, author Carol McCloud illustrates that when we choose to be kind, we not only fill the buckets of those around us, but also fill our OWN bucket! Conversely, when we choose to say or do mean things, we are dipping into buckets. All day long, we are either filling up or dipping into each other's buckets by what we say and what we do. When you're a bucket filler, you make the world a better place to be! This 32-page picture book is perfect for children, parents, grandparents, teachers and people that want to teach empathy, nurture kindness and create a positive environment in their home, classroom, workplace and community.

For more information on bucket filling or free downloadables and resources, please visit www.bucketfillers101.com.

Publications by Bucket Fillers:
- Have You Filled a Bucket Today?
- Fill a Bucket
- Growing Up with a Bucket Full of Happiness
- My Bucketfilling Journal
- Will You Fill My Bucket?
- Bucket Filling from A to Z
- Bucket Filling from A to Z Poster Set
- My Very Own Bucket Filling from A to Z Coloring Book
- BABY'S BUCKET Book
- Halle and Tiger with their Bucketfilling Family
- Buckets, Dippers, and Lids

View Details >>

My Happy Year by E.Bluebird

Paul Meisel

With humor and charm, a bluebird narrates her first year of life--adventures, joys, and scary times too--in this companion book to My Awesome Summer by P. Mantis.


"May 1: Today is my birthday." So begins the wondrous first year of E. Bluebird.

In hilarious, dated journal entries, readers are treated to the intimate details of an Eastern Bluebird's life. "May 8: Eating all these bugs makes me poop. My mom takes my poop sack out of the nest. Good thing." Over the summer she grows in new feathers, watches her siblings leave the nest, and learns to bravely take flight herself--migrating over the winter, and returning to start a family of her own the next year.

Paul Meisel's beautiful, kid-friendly art has been vetted for accuracy by two experts, and more information about Eastern Bluebirds, including a glossary and links for further reading, can be found on the illustrated endpapers.

A companion book, My Awesome Summer by P. Mantis, was an American Association for Advancement of Science/Subaru Science Books & Film Finalist. In a rave review, The New York Times called it "[a] celebration of nature's strangeness and wild wonders."

A Junior Library Guild Selection!
A Bank Street Best Book of the Year


Don't miss the other hilarious entries in The Nature Diary Series!

Each one explores the life cycle of an animal in dated journal entries, showing young readers how they grow and change through the seasons-- and offering a few laughs, too! Brightly illustrated and vetted by experts, Paul Meisel's books are a perfect introduction to your backyard neighbors.

My Awesome Summer by P. Mantis
CCBC Best-of-the-Year List, AAAS /Subaru Finalist, Leaping Lizards Top 10 Read-alouds, SCIENCE Best Books for Curious Kids, Virginia Readers' Choices
My Happy Year by E. Bluebird
A Junior Library Guild Selection
My Stinky Summer by S. Bug

View Details >>

The Happy Book

Andy Rash

From the creator of ARCHIE THE DAREDEVIL PENGUIN comes the unique story of two friends who can't escape all the feels.

Camper is happy as a clam and Clam is a happy camper. When you live in The Happy Book, the world is full of daisies and sunshine and friendship cakes . . . until your best friend eats the whole cake and doesn't save you one bite. Moving from happiness to sadness and everything in between, Camper and Clam have a hard time finding their way back to happy. But maybe happy isn't the goal--being a good friend is about supporting each other and feeling all the feels together.

At once funny and thoughtful, The Happy Book supports social-emotional learning. It's a book to keep young readers company no matter how they're feeling!

View Details >>

My Friend Is Sad

Mo Willems

When Gerald the Elephant is sad, Piggie is determined to cheer him up, but finds after many tries that it only takes the simplest thing to change Gerald's mood.

View Details >>

When Sadness is at Your Door

Eva Eland

A comforting primer in emotional literacy and mindfulness that suggests we approach the feeling of sadness as if it is our guest.

Sadness can be scary and confusing at any age! When we feel sad, especially for long periods of time, it can seem as if the sadness is a part of who we are--an overwhelming, invisible, and scary sensation.

In When Sadness Is at Your Door, Eva Eland brilliantly approaches this feeling as if it is a visitor. She gives it a shape and a face, and encourages the reader to give it a name, all of which helps to demystify it and distinguish it from ourselves. She suggests activities to do with it, like sitting quietly, drawing, and going outside for a walk. The beauty of this approach is in the respect the book has for the feeling, and the absence of a narrative that encourages the reader to "get over" it or indicates that it's "bad," both of which are anxiety-producing notions.

Simple illustrations that recall the classic style of Crockett Johnson (Harold and the Purple Crayon) invite readers to add their own impressions.

Eva Eland's debut picture book is a great primer in mindfulness and emotional literacy, perfect for kids navigating these new feelings--and for adult readers tackling the feelings themselves!

View Details >>

A Crankenstein Valentine

Samantha Berger

Even the crankiest monsters have hearts in this Valentine tale from fan favorite author Samantha Berger and Caldecott medalist illustrator Dan Santat.

Cheesy cards, allergy-inducing bouquets, and heart-shaped everything? YECHHHH! It's enough to turn anyone into a monster! An ordinary kid becomes Crankenstein on the most lovey-dovey, yuckiest day of the year: Valentine's Day.

Can Crankenstein find a way to turn his sour day sweet? Can a monster find a little love in his heart? Find out in the monstrously funny A Crankenstein Valentine.

View Details >>

Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day

Judith Viorst

A Latino-centric movie adaptation is coming soon to Disney+!

From children’s book legend Judith Viorst comes the perennially popular tale of Alexander’s worst day. Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day is a story that belongs on every child’s bookshelf.

Alexander could tell it was going to be a terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day. He went to sleep with gum in his mouth and woke up with gum in his hair. When he got out of bed, he tripped over his skateboard and by mistake dropped his sweater in the sink while the water was running. He could tell it was going to be a terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day.

It was a terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day. Nothing at all was right. Everything went wrong, right down to lima beans for supper and kissing on TV.

What do you do on a day like that? Well, you may think about going to Australia. You may also be glad to find that some days are like that for other people too.

View Details >>

Nobody Hugs a Cactus

Carter Goodrich

Celebrated artist and lead character designer of Brave, Ratatouille, and Despicable Me, Carter Goodrich, shows that sometimes, even the prickliest people—or the crankiest cacti—need a little love.

Hank is the prickliest cactus in the entire world. He sits in a pot in a window that faces the empty desert, which is just how he likes it. So, when all manner of creatures—from tumbleweed to lizard to owl—come to disturb his peace, Hank is annoyed.

He doesn’t like noise, he doesn’t like rowdiness, and definitely does not like hugs.

But the thing is, no one is offering one. Who would want to hug a plant so mean? Hank is beginning to discover that being alone can be, well, lonely.

So he comes up with a plan to get the one thing he thought he would never need: a hug from a friend.

View Details >>

I Can Control My Anger

Dagmar Geisler

The perfect tool to teach children how to evaluate and manager their anger. I Can Control My Anger provides parents, grandparents, teachers, and caregivers the opportunity to speak with children about this important topic.

Do you sometimes get angry?

I do.

Sometimes I have such rage, I want to yell at the top of my lungs or shout at someone else. Sometimes I even want to shred something or stomp on it.

When I get angry, my heart beats faster than usual, I get hot, and my face turns as red as a tomato. Occasionally, I get cold and my hands shake when I am really frustrated and mad.

We all get angry, and we all feel that anger in different ways. We may get hot or cold. We may want to yell at our parents or our friends, or we may want to pout and not talk to anyone. We may want to punch pillows or we may just want to cry. Sometimes we know why we’re angry, and sometimes we don’t. And that’s okay.

This book sensitively teaches young readers about anger and shows them healthy ways to process and express their thoughts and emotions when they are mad.

View Details >>

A Feel Better Book for Little Tempers

Holly Brochmann

Hello there my friend, how are you?
Do tell Are you happy and calm?
Peaceful and well?

Or is it one of those days you feel misunderstood?
You're huffy and puffy and just plain not good.
You wanted it this way.
It went that way instead
Now your ears are quite hot and your cheeks are all red.

Are you clenching your fists, is there a frown on your face?
It sounds like a temper could be the case.


Sometimes the LITTLEST kids can have the BIGGEST tempers

A Feel Better Book for Little Tempers assures little kids that anger is normal -- everyone gets angry sometimes, even adults The rhyming narration helps kids to identify anger and provides them with helpful tools to manage and move past it.

Includes a Note to Parents and Caregivers with more information on how you can help your little one manage their little (or not-so-little ) tempers.

View Details >>

I Hate Everything!

Sue Graves

It's hard for children to accept not getting their way. Sam hates when his brother cries or his dad is too busy to play. When he loses his place in "Musical Chairs," Sam cries, "I hate everything!" With the help of his aunt, Sam learns new ways to deal with his anger and feel better.

 

Our Emotions and Behavior series
The Our Emotions and Behavior series uses cheerful brightly illustrated stories to help kids understand how their emotions and actions are related--and how they can learn to manage both. At the end of each book, a two-page series of pictures invites kids to tell a story in their own words. A special section for adults suggests discussion questions and ideas for guiding children to talk about their feelings.

View Details >>

When Sophie Gets Angry--really, Really Angry...

Molly Bang

"In this Caldecott Honor-winning, head-on exploration of the causes of and solutions to anger, Sophie gets angry and runs out into the woods, where she climbs a tree to calm down, and is soon ready to come home to her loving family. Everybody gets angry sometimes. And for children, anger can be very upsetting. In this Caldecott-honor book, children will see what Sophie does when she gets angry. Parents, teachers, and children can talk about it. People do lots of different things when they get angry. What do you do?" - Publisher.

View Details >>

Sometimes I'm Bombaloo

Rachel Vail

Vail & Heo deliver a wise, warm take on tantrums.
Let the Scholastic Bookshelf be your guide through the whole range of your child's experiences--laugh with them, learn with them, read with them!

Category: Feelings

Sometimes, Katie loses her temper.Sometimes she uses her feet and her fists instead of words. When Katie is this mad, she's just not herself. Sometimes, she's BOMBALOO.

Being BOMBALOO is scary. But a little time-out and a lot of love calm BOMBALOO down and help Katie feel like Katie again!

View Details >>

Shy

Deborah Freedman

A dazzlingly beautiful book about shyness from the author of Blue Chicken, The Story of Fish and Snail, and By Mouse and Frog!

Shy loves birds. He'd love to watch them fly and hear them sing, but he's only ever read about them in books. . .until a real bird comes along.  He's dying to meet her, but there's just one problem:  Shy is, well, shy--so shy, in fact, that he's afraid to leave the gutter of the book.  Can Shy overcome his fears and venture out onto the page?  This sweetly relatable picture book from the acclaimed Deborah Freedman speaks to every child who's ever felt like hiding instead of facing the daunting world.

View Details >>

Two Shy Pandas

Julia Jarman

Panda longs to play with Pandora next door, but he's too shy. Pandora longs to say "Hello, Panda!" but she's much too shy, too. Will these two shy pandas ever muster up the courage to speak to each other? Illustrations.

View Details >>

Too Shy for Show-and-Tell

Beth Bracken

Sam is a quiet little boy who hates show-and-tell. Just thinking about it makes his stomach hurt. Sam must find a way to conquer his fear and make the most of his turn at show-and-tell. This picture book is great for teaching children about emotions and challenges.

View Details >>

What to Do When You Feel Too Shy

Claire A. B. Freeland

2017 NAPPA Award Winner Finalist in the 2016 Foreword INDIES Book Awards

Circus clowns perform tricks and make us laugh. They wear bright colors, big shoes, and all kinds of wigs and colorful hats. They seem to like people looking at them and laughing at them, but many people--including children--feel shy when other people notice them. And some people are incredibly uncomfortable being in the spotlight. Does this sound like your child? If he feels too shy or nervous often or if he misses out on cool activities and fun because of it, this book can help.

What to Do When You Feel Too Shy guides children and their parents through the emotions underlying social anxiety and uses strategies and techniques based on cognitive-behavioral principles to address the issue. This interactive self-help book is the complete resource for educating, motivating, and empowering children to overcome social anxiety--so they can join in the circus of fun and friends

This book is part of the Magination Press What-to-Do Guides for Kids(R) series and includes an "Introduction to Parents and Caregivers." What-to-Guides for Kids(R) are interactive self-help books designed to guide 6-12 year olds and their parents through the cognitive-behavioral techniques most often used in the treatment of various psychological concerns. Engaging, encouraging, and easy to follow, these books educate, motivate, and empower children to work towards change.

View Details >>

Crunch the Shy Dinosaur

Cirocco Dunlap

From Cirocco Dunlap (This Book Will Not Be Fun) and Theodor Seuss Geisel Award winner Greg Pizzoli (The Watermelon Seed) comes a charming, giggly read-aloud that illustrates the particular art of making a friend!

Crunch is a lovely and quiet brontosaurus who has hidden himself in some shubbery and is rather shy. He would like to play, but it will require some gentle coaxing from you! If you are patient and encouraging, you will find yourself with a new friend!

This picture book is a warm, funny example of how to engage with someone new, who is perhaps a bit different from you. Lessons in friend-making (such as minding personal space and demonstrating interest in another's hobbies) are delivered so subtly that children will absorb them unconsciously as they delight in Crunch's silly hat and dance moves!

Cirocco Dunlap (This Book Will Not Be Fun) and Greg Pizzoli (The Watermelon Seed) enchant and surprise us with their first collaboration.

A Chicago Public Library Best Book of 2018!

View Details >>

I Am Feeling Bashful

Pat Thomas

Psychotherapist and counselor Pat Thomas puts her gentle, yet straightforward approach to work in this new addition to Barron's highly acclaimed A First Look At...Series. Everyone feels shy at times, even grown-ups and other children who seem very brave. But excessive shyness may leave children feeling lonely and left out. This book will help children take the first steps toward feeling more confident. The story line is simple and easily accessible to younger children, who will learn that exploring the personal feelings around social issues is a first step in dealing with them. Full-color illustrations on every page.

View Details >>

Me And My Fear

Frenci Sanna

"With its warm palette and gentle scenes of the worried child being comforted, this book could function as a sequel to Sanna's astounding debut picture book, The Journey, which recounted a family's dangerous flight from their home in a war zone. Sanna provides an empathetic exploration of the adjustment to a new land that all migrants experience."--New York Times Book Review

“Authentic and immediate, the first-person narration draws in readers and reveals just how easily fear can become overwhelming and isolating, but can also be controlled when feelings are shared and through comfort found in friendship. ­Like Sanna’s The Journey, this book about an immigrant’s experiences tackles a tough topic with honesty, empathy, and a sense of hopefulness.”—School Library Journal, STARRED REVIEW

“This follow-up to The Journey about a refugee family fleeing a war-torn homeland, focuses on the young daughter’s apprehension as she adjusts to life in a new country and a new school.”—The Horn Book Review

"[...] this creative depiction shows how friendship, empathy, and connection can help bring the overwhelming down to size for all."
Publishers Weekly, STARRED REVIEW

“A universal book that can be used to explain fear to readers and give empathy to those in a new environment.”
Kirkus Reviews

“It will be a familiar story for many children, but the girl’s specific fears about language and difference might make this useful for discussions about newcomers as well.”
Booklist


When a young immigrant girl has to travel to a new country and start at a new school, she is accompanied by her Fear who tells her to be alone and afraid, growing bigger and bigger every day with questions like "how can you hope to make new friends if you don't understand their language?" But this little girl is stronger than her Fear. A heart-warming and timely tale from the bestselling author and illustrator of The Journey, this book shows us the importance of sharing your Fear with others--after all, everyone carries a Fear with them, even if it's small enough to fit into their pocket!

View Details >>

When Lions Roar

Robie H. Harris

WHEN LIONS ROAR is a caring and reassuring story of a young child who faces his fear and makes his world a safe place again.

2012 Caldecott Medalist Chris Raschka and bestselling author Robie H. Harris pair together to create a comforting story for young readers when their world becomes unsettled.

Thunder is booming
A big dog is barking

Sometimes the world seems scary--too scary. But what if you shout, "GO AWAY " Will the sun come out? Will a flower bloom?

View Details >>

The Doghouse

Jan Thomas

Mouse, Pig, Cow, and Duck are playing a carefree game of ball when (horror of horrors!) their ball gets kicked into . . . THE DOGHOUSE. Who will risk a run-in with scary Dog to get it back? Hysterical high anxiety ensues as Mouse volunteers each animal to do the dirty work--but you'll never believe what's really going on in the doghouse! With Jan Thomas's fun, fresh art and priceless animal expressions, this timeless tale of fear and friendship will have readers howling.

View Details >>

Thunder Cake

Patricia Polacco

A loud clap of thunder booms, and rattles the windows of Grandma's old farmhouse. "This is Thunder Cake baking weather," calls Grandma, as she and her granddaughter hurry to gather the ingredients around the farm. A real Thunder Cake must reach the oven before the storm arrives. But the list of ingredients is long and not easy to find . . . and the storm is coming closer all the time!

Reaching once again into her rich childhood experience, Patricia Polacco tells the memorable story of how her grandma--her Babushka--helped her overcome her fear of thunder when she was a little girl. Ms. Polacco's vivid memories of her grandmother's endearing answer to a child's fear, accompanied by her bright folk-art illustrations, turn a frightening thunderstorm into an adventure and ultimately . . . a celebration!

Whether the first clap of thunder finds you buried under the bedcovers or happily anticipating the coming storm, Thunder Cake is a story that will bring new meaning and possibility to the excitement of a thunderstorm.

View Details >>

Brave Irene

William Steig

Brave Irene is Irene Bobbin, the dressmaker's daughter. Her mother, Mrs. Bobbin, isn't feeling so well and can't possibly deliver the beautiful ball gown she's made for the duchess to wear that very evening. So plucky Irene volunteers to get the gown to the palace on time, in spite of the fierce snowstorm that's brewing-- quite an errand for a little girl.

But where there's a will, there's a way, as Irene proves in the danger-fraught adventure that follows. She must defy the wiles of the wicked wind, her most formidable opponent, and overcome many obstacles before she completes her mission. Surely, this winning heroine will inspire every child to cheer her on.

Brave Irene is a 1986 New York Times Book Review Best Illustrated Book of the Year.

View Details >>

Sheila Rae, the Brave

Kevin Henkes

Sheila Rae is not afraid of anything. She walks backward with her eyes closed, steps on every crack, growls at stray dogs, and bares her teeth at stray cats. But when Sheila Rae becomes lost on the way home from school, it is her "scaredy-cat" sister, Louise, who shows her a thing or two about bravery--and sibling love. A PBS Storytime book. Full color.

View Details >>

The Dark

Lemony Snicket

Laszlo is afraid of the dark.

The dark lives in the same house as Laszlo. Mostly, though, the dark stays in the basement and doesn't come into Lazslo's room. But one night, it does.

This is the story of how Laszlo stops being afraid of the dark.

With emotional insight and poetic economy, two award-winning talents team up to conquer a universal childhood fear.

 

View Details >>

Jabari Jumps

Gaia Cornwall

Working up the courage to take a big, important leap is hard, but Jabari is almost absolutely ready to make a giant splash.

Jabari is definitely ready to jump off the diving board. He’s finished his swimming lessons and passed his swim test, and he’s a great jumper, so he’s not scared at all. “Looks easy,” says Jabari, watching the other kids take their turns. But when his dad squeezes his hand, Jabari squeezes back. He needs to figure out what kind of special jump to do anyway, and he should probably do some stretches before climbing up onto the diving board. In a sweetly appealing tale of overcoming your fears, newcomer Gaia Cornwall captures a moment between a patient and encouraging father and a determined little boy you can’t help but root for.

View Details >>