#CommunityDiversity

How I Became a Spy: A Mystery of WWII London

Author: Deborah Hopkinson Genre: Mystery

From the award-winning author of The Great Trouble comes a story of espionage, survival, and friendship during World War II. Bertie Bradshaw never set out to become a spy. He never imagined traipsing around war-torn London, solving ciphers, practicing surveillance, and searching for a traitor to the Allied forces. He certainly never expected that a strong-willed American girl named Eleanor would play Watson to his Holmes (or Holmes to his Watson, depending on who you ask). But when a young woman goes missing, leaving behind a coded notebook, Bertie is determined to solve the mystery. With the help of Eleanor and his friend David, a Jewish refugee--and, of course, his trusty pup, Little Roo--Bertie must decipher the notebook in time to stop a double agent from spilling the biggest secret of all to the Nazis. From the author of The Great Trouble , this suspenseful WWII adventure reminds us that times of war call for bravery, brains and teamwork from even the most unlikely heroes. Read more

Reaching the Rainbow: Children's Adventure Book: Picture Book about Following Our Dreams (Motivational books for children)

Author: Limor Grinberg Genre: Adventure Illustrator: Bar Fabian

*A Children's Book that Encourages and Fosters Children's Self-confidence* **Teach the children the power of motivation** "Looly wanted that lollipop but had no clue: “How can I reach it? What can I do?” Then Looly heard laughter up in the tree; Looly saw white birds, not one but three." Looly discovers the rainbow in the sky and wants to reach out. However, all the animals she meets along the way, tell her that it’s impossible. This is a story about determination, and the willpower to find solutions in order to achieve your dream. Throughout the book, Looly also discovers new animals and their unique traits. It's a book for children that encourages their imagination and think out of the box, helps them using assertive communication, believe in themselves, and build their self-esteem. Limor Grinberg is a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), owns a private clinic. She uses cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) methods, as well as mindfulness and Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) to help clients reframe limiting or negative behaviors. This is her first book, and it is dedicated with love to all the children everywhere, in the hopes that they believe in themselves and their dreams. "This picture book on motivation and assertiveness is a wonderful tool to foster a positive self-image and self-confidence. Teachers can use them to spark discussions on finding a possible solution outside of the box when things seem impossible. It is an interesting tool to use in order to understand our inner voices which sometimes tells us we cannot in certain situations we actually can" Adriana Fella, preschool teacher, July 2023. Read more

Three Little Words: A Memoir

Author: Ashley Rhodes-Courter Genre: (Auto)biography/Memoir

An inspiring true story of the tumultuous nine years the author spent in the foster care system, and how she triumphed over painful memories and real-life horrors to ultimately find her own voice. “Sunshine, you’re my baby and I’m your only mother. You must mind the one taking care of you, but she’s not your mama.” Ashley Rhodes-Courter spent nine years of her life in fourteen different foster homes, living by those words. As her mother spirals out of control, Ashley is left clinging to an unpredictable, dissolving relationship, all the while getting pulled deeper and deeper into the foster care system. Painful memories of being taken away from her home quickly become consumed by real-life horrors, where Ashley is juggled between caseworkers, shuffled from school to school, and forced to endure manipulative, humiliating treatment from a very abusive foster family. In this inspiring, unforgettable memoir, Ashley finds the courage to succeed—and in doing so, discovers the power of speaking out. Read more

Almuerzo gratis (Spanish Edition)

Author: Rex Ogle Genre: (Auto)biography/Memoir

The highly anticipated Spanish language edition of Free Lunch , Rex Ogle’s award-winning and groundbreaking memoir about hunger, poverty, and hope. Ganador del Premio YALSA a la Excelencia en No Ficción “Un poderoso retrato de la pobreza en medio de la crueldad y el optimismo”. ― Kirkus Reviews , reseña destacada Almuerzo gratis es la historia de los esfuerzos de Rex Ogle por abrirse camino en su primer semestre de sexto grado como niño pobre en un distrito escolar rico: decidir con quién sentarse, no poder unirse al equipo de fútbol americano, además de lidiar con nuevos compañeros de clase y con una profesora que de solo mirarlo lo tilda de problemático. Y en lugar de darle dinero para el almuerzo, la madre de Rex lo inscribe en el programa de almuerzo gratis. Ni ella ni su novio tienen trabajo, y la vida en su casa está marcada por estallidos de violencia. Implacable y realista, la desgarradora autobiografía de Rex Ogle es una historia de adversidades entrelazadas con esperanza y momentos de gracia. La voz de Rex es convincente y auténtica, lo que hace de Almuerzo gratis una obra honesta, oportuna y esencial que ilustra la experiencia de la pobreza en Estados Unidos. Read more

How the Boogeyman Became a Poet

Author: Tony Keith; Genre: (Auto)biography/Memoir

Poet, writer, and hip-hop educator Tony Keith Jr. makes his debut with a powerful YA memoir in verse, tracing his journey from being a closeted gay Black teen battling poverty, racism, and homophobia to becoming an openly gay first-generation college student who finds freedom in poetry. Perfect for fans of Elizabeth Acevedo, George M. Johnson, and Jacqueline Woodson. Tony dreams about life after high school, where his poetic voice can find freedom on the stage and page. But the Boogeyman has been following Tony since he was six years old. First, the Boogeyman was after his Blackness, but Tony has learned It knows more than that: Tony wants to be the first in his family to attend college, but there's no path to follow. He also has feelings for boys, desires that don't align with the script he thinks is set for him and his girlfriend, Blu. Despite a supportive network of family and friends, Tony doesn't breathe a word to anyone about his feelings. As he grapples with his sexuality and moves from high school to college, he struggles with loneliness while finding solace in gay chat rooms and writing poetry. But how do you find your poetic voice when you are hiding the most important parts of yourself? And how do you escape the Boogeyman when it's lurking inside you? Read more

Stellaluna

Author: Janell Cannon Genre: Classics

When young fruit bat Stellaluna is separated from her mother, she’s adopted by a family of birds with very different habits in this award-winning and bestselling picture book classic. Knocked from her mother’s safe embrace by an attacking owl, Stellaluna lands headfirst in a bird’s nest. This adorable baby fruit bat’s world is literally turned upside down when she is adopted by the occupants of the nest and adapts to their peculiar bird habits. Two pages of notes at the end of the story provide factual information about bats. “Delightful and informative but never didactic; a splendid debut.” — Kirkus Reviews Read more

Touchdown Kid

Author: Tim Green Genre: Sports

From New York Times bestselling author and former NFL defensive end Tim Green comes a football story about a boy who is given a chance to prove that wealth and privilege don’t matter on the football field, as long as he has the skills to compete. Perfect for fans of Mike Lupica! Cory has always been passionate about football. But life for him and his single mom has been hard, making it difficult for Cory to play. And though Cory is a good kid, he’s constantly surrounded by negative influences. But when the coach from an elite private school with one of the best football programs in the country recognizes his talents on the field, Cory is presented with an unbelievable opportunity. Cory knows that football could be his ticket out. But leaving to attend private school also means struggling to fit into a world where most people look at him and just see a scholarship kid from the wrong side of town. Cory knows that if he can fight hard enough—both on and off the field—he may be able to secure a bright future that looks different from his unpromising past. Read more

Amazing Blank Comic Book: Make Your Own Comic Adventures With Easy Templates I 104 Paneled Pages in 7 Layouts

Author: Rhea Neel Genre: Comics

Amazing Blank Comic Book – Create Your Own Comic Adventures! Does your child love to draw and invent stories? Now they can create their own comic from start to finish! The Amazing Blank Comic Book is the perfect tool to foster imagination and artistic skills. What’s Inside? A blank comic book with a variety of page templates – the perfect space for creating unique stories and illustrations. Step-by-step guide: "How to Create Your Own Comic" – easy-to-follow instructions for beginner comic artists. Comic book speech bubble template – a collection of ready-to-use speech and thought bubbles for dialogue and narration. Explosive action words – pre-designed sound effects like "Boom!" and "Pow!" to bring action scenes to life. Simple and intuitive layout – perfect for kids and aspiring comic creators. Why Choose This Book? Encourages creativity and artistic expression – a great way for kids to unleash their imagination. Supports storytelling and literacy skills – teaches how to structure a story, develop characters, and create engaging dialogues. Improves fine motor skills – drawing and writing in panels help enhance hand-eye coordination. Develops problem-solving and logical thinking – planning a comic requires strategic thinking. A fun bonding activity – a great way for parents and kids to create together. Screen-free entertainment – hours of creative fun without digital distractions. Encourages self-expression – allows children to share their thoughts, emotions, and ideas through art. A Perfect Gift for Any Occasion! Ideal for young artists, future comic creators, superhero fans, and anyone who loves to draw! A fantastic choice for birthdays, holidays, school, or travel. It’s time for the first comic adventure! Choose the Amazing Blank Comic Book and watch your child bring their own stories to life! Read more

Illustrated Classics - The Jungle Book: Abridged Novels With Review Questions

Author: Wonder House Books Genre: Classics

The Jungle Book by Rudyard Kipling Saved from the jaws of the fearsome tiger Shere Khan, a lost human child is adopted by a loving pack of wolves and raised deep in the heart of the forest. Meet Mowgli , the spirited boy who grows up under the watchful eyes of Baloo the bear, Bagheera the panther, and Akela the wise wolf . As Mowgli navigates the challenges of jungle life, he must face danger, discover his identity, and decide where he truly belongs. This beautifully illustrated edition of The Jungle Book is the perfect way to introduce young readers to one of the greatest classics of children’s literature . Packed with unforgettable characters and timeless lessons, it is sure to ignite the imagination of every child. Why Parents Will Love It : A treasured classic that has stood the test of time Encourages reading habits and vocabulary development Features important themes of courage, belonging, and friendship Beautifully illustrated to make reading a joyful experience Why Kids Will Love It : Exciting adventures with animal friends and foes A lovable hero they can root for Vivid jungle scenes and stunning artwork A journey full of fun, danger, and discovery Key Features : Classic story abridged and illustrated for young readers Introduces children to the wonders of nature and moral values Perfect for storytime, independent reading, or classroom libraries Builds imagination, empathy, and reading confidence Step into the wild and experience the magic of Rudyard Kipling’s unforgettable jungle tale! Read more

Stellaluna - Oversize edition

Author: Janell Cannon Genre: Classics

While out searching for food, fruit bat Stellaluna and her mother are attacked by a vicious owl. Stellaluna is separated from Mother Bat and taken in by a family of birds, where she must put aside her bat habits to fit in with her new family. But one fateful flight when she is separated from her adoptive siblings, Stellaluna is reunited with her bat family and learns that even though we’re different, we’re very much the same. Stellaluna’s journey is a tender tale of discovery, friendship, and finding your flock—and your colony. A Bat Raised by Birds: After being separated from her mother, baby bat Stellaluna must learn a whole new way of life—from eating bugs to sleeping in a nest instead of upside down. Finding Your Family: A beautiful story about adoption, belonging, and the joy of being reunited with the family that’s been searching for you. Celebrating Differences: When her bird friends Pip, Flitter, and Flap meet her bat family, they all discover that friendship is what matters most, no matter how different you are. A Timeless Bedtime Story: For generations, this classic and beloved picture book has been a favorite for parents and children to share together. Read more

Uncle Remus: His Songs & His Sayings

Author: Joel Chandler Harris Genre: Anthology

Working at a plantation in his youth, Joel Chandler Harris found that much of his shyness disappeared in the slave QTLYters, and his background as the illegitimate son of an Irish immigrant helped fuse a close bond with the slaves. The language of his new friends and the African-American animal tales they shared later became the inspiration for Joel s beloved Uncle Remus stories. When Harris recorded the many Brer Rabbit stories from the African-American oral tradition, little did he know that it would revolutionize children s literature. As an adult, Harris committed to healing post-Civil War America, stressing regional and racial reconciliation during and after the Reconstruction era. Read more

Anne of Green Gables: A Graphic Novel

Author: Mariah Marsden Genre: Comics Illustrator: Brenna Thummler

Schoolyard rivalries. Baking disasters. Puffed sleeves. Explore the violet vales and glorious green of Avonlea in this spirited graphic novel adaptation. “The spirit of Anne is alive and well in Mariah Marsden's crisp adaptation, and it's a thrill to watch as the beloved orphan rushes headlong through Brenna Thummler's heavenly landscapes. Together Marsden and Thummler conjure all the magic and beauty of Green Gables. Like Anne herself, you won't want to leave.” — Brian Selznick, author/illustrator of The Invention of Hugo Cabret and The Marvels When Matthew and Marilla Cuthbert decide to adopt an orphan who can help manage their family farm, they have no idea what delightful trouble awaits them. With flame-red hair and an unstoppable imagination, 11-year-old Anne Shirley takes Green Gables by storm. Anne’s misadventures bring a little romance to the lives of everyone she meets: her bosom friend, Diana Barry; the town gossip, Mrs. Lynde; and that infuriating tease, Gilbert Blythe. From triumphs and thrills to the depths of despair, Anne turns each everyday moment into something extraordinary. The magic of L.M. Montgomery’s treasured classic is reimagined in this whimsically illustrated graphic novel adaptation perfect for newcomers and kindred spirits alike. Kids from age 10 on, as well as adult fans of Anne, will enjoy rediscovering Anne's world through Brenna Thummler's spirited art. Read more