One September day, the perfect blue sky exploded. Dust billowed. Buildings crumbled. And underneath it all, a tree sprouted green leaves in its distress. Pulled from the wreckage, the tree saw many seasons pass as it slowly recovered far away from home. Until one day, forever scarred and forever stronger, it was replanted at the 9/11 Memorial.
This story of the real Survivor Tree uses nature’s cycle of colors to reflect on the hope and healing that come after a tragedy—and assures readers of their own remarkable resilience. 4-8 years
This Very Tree: A Story of 9/11, Resilience, and Regrowth
By Sean Rubin
In the 1970s, nestled between the newly completed Twin Towers in New York City, a Callery pear tree was planted. Over the years, the tree provided shade for people looking for a place to rest and a home for birds, along with the first blooms of spring.
On September 11, 2001, everything changed. The tree’s home was destroyed, and it was buried under the rubble. But a month after tragedy struck, a shocking discovery was made at Ground Zero: the tree had survived.
Dubbed the “Survivor Tree,” it was moved to the Bronx to recover. And in the thoughtful care of the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation, the Callery pear was nursed back to health. Almost a decade later, the Survivor Tree returned home and was planted in the 9/11 Memorial to provide beauty and comfort…and also hope. 6-8 years
Branches of Hope: The 9/11 Survivor Tree
By Ann Magee, Illustrated by Nicole Wong
In this tribute to a city and its people, a wordless story of a young child accompanies the tree’s history. As the tree heals, the girl grows into an adult, and by the 20th anniversary of 9/11, she has become a firefighter like her first-responder uncle. A life-affirming introduction to how 9/11 affected the United States and how we recovered together. 4-7 years
Miracle of Little Tree: The 9/11 Survivor Tree’s Incredible Story
By Linda S. Foster, Illustrated by Alicia Young
Little Tree is happily growing near the Twin Towers in New York City on the morning of September 11, 2001. Suddenly, a terrorist attack changes him and the world, forever. Finding himself burnt, broken, and alone under tons of debris, he can do nothing to help himself. Yet he finds inner strength through his personal mantra to be “brave, strong, and calm.”
After nearly a month hidden from sight, Little Tree is miraculously discovered to be alive. Rescued as the last living thing removed from the devastation at Ground Zero, he now faces fear of the future. Preparing himself for the unknown, Little Tree again finds courage in his words to be “brave, strong, and calm.” Strangers become his friends, nurturing him back to health. With scars on his trunk, missing limbs, and a changed appearance, Little Tree strives to thrive. Unexpectedly returned to his home site, he becomes renowned as the 9/11 Survivor Tree, a symbol of perseverance, hope, and healing. 4-7 years
The Survivor Tree: Inspired by a True Story
By Cheryl Somers Aubin, Illustrated by Shelia Harrington
A month after the collapse of the Twin Towers, workers on the site discovered a few green leaves showing through the gray concrete and ash. Clearing the debris, they found a badly injured Callery pear tree. She was rescued, taken to a nursery outside the city, and put in the care of Richie, a City Parks Worker. No one was sure if she would live. But the following spring, a dove built a nest in her branches and new green buds appeared.
Over the years, the tree, although still bearing scars, grew tall and strong. She is planted in a place of honor on the 9/11 Memorial Plaza and now known as “The 9/11 Survivor Tree.” This story describes the experience, memories, and feelings of the tree throughout her healing and her eventual return home. 8-12 years
The book descriptions are primarily from the publisher.
If you like this post, then please consider sharing it and/or leaving a comment below. Thank you! Barbara Lowell, Children’s Author
An unhoused person carries a bag through the streets, to a shelter, to a house, to the subway, and the park. With each changing location, the protagonist and their bag also changes, reflecting the various faces and reasons for homelessness and asking the reader to contemplate themes of community, self-reliance, and the meaning of “home.” 6-9 years
A Duet for Home
By Karina Yan Glaser
At first, June can’t believe it: their new home is a homeless shelter? When she’s told she can’t bring her cherished viola inside, she’s convinced the worst luck in the world landed her at Huey House.
But Tyrell has lived at Huey House for three years, and he knows all the good things about it: friendship, hot meals, and the music from next door drifting through the windows. With his help, June begins to see things differently. Just as she’s starting to understand how Huey House can be a home, a new government policy threatens all the residents. Can June and Tyrell work together to find a way to save Huey House as they know it? 8-12 years
Hello, Mister Blue
By Daria Peoples
A young girl always creates special memories when she visits her grandfather. He lets her sip his creamy coffee, they take a stroll through the park, and they play music together. But this time, something unexpected happens: she meets Papa’s longtime friend, Mister Blue. Mister Blue lives outside, and he and his music have always brought Papa’s community together. At the end of the day, the young girl has many questions for Papa. Is Mister Blue safe? Scared? Lonely, hungry? With her curiosity and kindness, she can change things for the better, for at least one person and one night. 4-8 years
Home for Grace
By Kathryn White, Illustrated by Rachael Dean
When a woman appears with a sleeping bag, living in a shop doorway, Jess is full of questions. Where is her home? Why did she leave? And what will happen when the snow comes? Inspired by a case of unkindness towards an unhoused person witnessed by the author and her daughter, this sensitive and nuanced picture book encourages compassion and embracing differences. Told from a child’s perspective, we learn together that everybody has a story and a personal concept of what ‘home’ is. 5-9 years
Sanctuary, Kip Tiernan and Rosie’s Place:
The Nation’s First Shelter for Women
By Christine McDonnell, Illustrated by Victoria Tentler-Krylov
When Kip Tiernan was growing up during the Great Depression, she’d help her granny feed the men who came to their door asking for help. As Kip grew older, and as she continued to serve food to hungry people, she noticed something peculiar: huddled at the back of serving lines were women dressed as men.
At the time, it was believed that there were no women experiencing homelessness. And yet Kip would see women sleeping on park benches and searching for food in trash cans. Kip decided to open the first shelter for women—a shelter with no questions asked, no required chores, just good meals and warm beds. With persistence, Kip took on the city of Boston in her quest to open Rosie’s Place, our nation’s first shelter for women. 7-10 years
No Place Like Home
By James Bird
When home is a car, life is unpredictable. School, friends, and three meals a day aren’t guaranteed. Not every town has a shelter where a family can sleep for a night or two, and places with parking lots don’t welcome overnight stays.
Opin, his brother Emjay, and their mother are trying to get to Los Angeles, where they hope an uncle and a new life are waiting. Emjay has taken to disappearing for days, slowing down the family’s progress and adding to their worry.
Then Opin finds a stray dog who needs him as much as he needs her, and his longing for a stable home intensifies, as his brother’s reckless ways hit a new high. Opin makes a new friend in the shelter, but shelters don’t allow dogs…
Will anything other than a real home ever be enough? 10-14 years
Home
By Tonya Lippert, Illustrated by Andrea Stegmaier
This lyrical story depicts the life of two children thrust into homelessness. With uncertain housing situations, they move out of their house, to a motel, to a shelter, and finally another more permanent home. Throughout, the duo is challenged by uncomfortable new places and inquiries from strangers. But ultimately, they never lose their optimism or determination. They have each other, no matter at home, homeless, nowhere, anywhere, or somewhere—always. 4-8 years
Still a Family
By Brenda Reeves Sturgis, Illustrated by Jo-Shin Lee
A little girl and her parents have lost their home and must live in a homeless shelter. Even worse, her dad must live in a men’s shelter, separated from her and her mom. Despite their circumstances, the family still finds time to be together. They meet at the park to play hide-and-seek, slide on slides, and pet puppies. While the young girl wishes for better days when her family is together again under a roof of their very own, she continues to remind herself that they’re still a family even in times of separation. 4-8 years
A Place to Stay: A Shelter Story
By Erin Gunti, Illustrated by Esteli Meza
This simple picture book shows readers a women’s shelter through the eyes of a young girl. With her mother’s help, she uses her imagination to overcome her anxiety and adjust. This book includes factual endnotes detailing various reasons people experience homelessness and the resources available to help. 5-9 years
The book descriptions used are primarily from the publishers.
If you like this post, then please consider sharing it and/or leaving a comment below. Thank you! Barbara Lowell, Children’s Author
Ashamed of her newfound food insecurity, Nia leaves the local food rescue with an empty box. Afterward, when confronted with the reality of food waste, she reconsiders accepting help and becoming a part of something greater. In this picture book, children learn about food rescues, food waste, food insecurity, and what they can do about it. 3 years+
Saturday at the Food Pantry
By Diane O’Neill, Illustrated by Brizida Magro
A sensitive story about food insecurity. Molly and her mom don’t always have enough food, so one Saturday they visit their local food pantry. Molly’s happy to get food to eat until she sees her classmate Caitlin, who’s embarrassed to be at the food pantry. Can Molly help Caitlin realize that everyone needs help sometimes? 3-7 years
Maddi’s Fridge
By Lois Brandt, Illustrated by Vin Vogel
With humor and warmth, this children’s picture book raises awareness about poverty and hunger. Best friends Sofia and Maddi live in the same neighborhood, go to the same school, and play in the same park, but while Sofia’s fridge at home is full of nutritious food, the fridge at Maddi’s house is empty. Sofia learns that Maddi’s family doesn’t have enough money to fill their fridge and promises Maddi she’ll keep this discovery a secret. But because Sofia wants to help her friend, she’s faced with a difficult decision: to keep her promise or tell her parents about Maddi’s empty fridge.
Filled with colorful artwork, this storybook addresses issues of poverty with honesty and sensitivity while instilling important lessons in friendship, empathy, trust, and helping others. A call to action section, with six effective ways for children to help fight hunger and information on anti-hunger groups, is also included. 5-9 years
Lulu and the Hunger Monster
By Erik Talkin, Illustrated by Sheryl Murray
When Lulu’s mother’s van breaks down, money for food becomes tight and the Hunger Monster comes into their lives. Only visible to Lulu, Hunger Monster is a troublemaker who makes it hard for her to concentrate in school. How will Lulu help her mom and defeat the Monster when Lulu has promised never to speak the monster’s name to anyone?
This realistic—and hopeful—story of food insecurity builds awareness of the issue of childhood hunger, increases empathy for people who are food insecure, and demonstrates how anyone can help end hunger. Lulu and the Hunger Monster™ empowers children to destigmatize the issue of hunger before the feeling turns into shame. 5-9 years
Kevin and the Food Drive: A Story About Generosity
By Kristin Johnson, Illustrated by Hannah Wood
When Kevin learns that not all families have enough to eat, he decides to organize a food drive with his friends. When everyone pitches in and shares, there’s enough food to go around! 4-9 years
The Greatest Table
By Micheal J. Rosen, Illustrated by Becca Stadtlander
In a world of bountiful food yet increasing food insecurity, we are called to remember that all creatures have a place—and may be fed sustainably—at the greatest, communal table offered by our planet. 6-8 years
Uncle Willie and the Soup Kitchen
By Dyanne Disalvo-Ryan
“A boy wonders about the people he sees on his city’s streets until he goes to the soup kitchen where his uncle works. The varied needs of the individuals there become clear to the young narrator. The watercolors use earth tones and careful detail to illustrate the warm, friendly story.” — Horn Book 4-8 years
Boundless
By Chaunté Lowe
Everything seemed set against Chaunté Lowe. Growing up with a single mother in Paso Robles, California. She experienced food insecurity, homelessness, and domestic abuse. Chaunté couldn’t imagine a future that offered a different sort of life. But then, one day, she turned on the TV and there was Flo Jo, competing in the Olympics and shattering records in track and field.
Almost immediately, Chaunté knew what she wanted to do. She started running. With the help of a small community of friends, family, and coaches, Chaunté worked as hard as she could – both in the classroom and out on the sports field – and through her own fierce determination and grit, she overcame every imaginable obstacle, eventually propelling herself to the place she always dreamed about: the Olympic medal podium. 8-12 years
The book descriptions are primarily from the publishers.
If you like this post, then please consider sharing it and/or leaving a comment below. Thank you! Barbara Lowell, Children’s Author
Animals in Surprising Shades: Poems About Earth’s Colorful Creatures
By Susan Johnston Taylor, Interior Illustrations by Annie Bakst
Rosy pinks, regal blues, radiant greens Adorn birds, bugs, snails, slugs. Instead of paint on canvas, Nature colors feathers, fur, skin, scales. But if some see these creatures as Oddball or off-the-wall, Why not delight in their whimsy and wonder?
For young poets who love science and young scientists who love poetry, this thoughtful collection of poems about fascinating and colorful creatures found throughout the world invites readers to linger and wonder on every page. Learn why the Blue-footed Booby puts on a special dance or how the Picasso Bug uses its masterful chemical defense against predators. Explore simple and fun poetic forms like the tanka, haiku, and quatrain. Just be sure to take good notes! An interactive component rewards practicing poets seeking to challenge themselves further. 6-10 years
Cricket in the Thicket: Poems About Bugs
By Carol Murray, Illustrated by Melissa Sweet
Pray tell us, Mr. Mantis, Do you pray or simply prey? Do you scout about for victims Or fold your hands all day?
In addition to the playful rhyming poems, the supplementary text highlights surprising facts about bugs of all kinds―from familiar ants to exotic dragonflies, cringe-worthy ticks and magnificent fireflies. Melissa Sweet’s collage-inspired mixed-media illustrations beautifully render these creatures and compliment the poems’ whimsical tones. This is an fun and informative look at a perennial topic of interest for kids―cool bugs! 6-10 years
The Dirt Book: Poems About Animals That Live Beneath Our Feet
By David L. Harrison, Illustrated by Kate Cosgrove
Chipmunk, for such a little squirt you sure do move a lot of dirt, you sure do dig your tunnels deep, you sure do find some nuts to keep, you sure do know your underground. Chipmunk, you sure do get around.
Illustrating life underground, 15 funny, fascinating poems explore dirt and the many creatures that make their homes underground. Spiders, earthworms, ants, chipmunks and more crawl across the pages, between stretching roots and buried stones. This celebration of dirt– what makes it, what lives in it, and the many wonderful things the soil does to support life on our planet– is a whimsical illustrated pick for kids who love animals… or who just love playing in the mud. 5-9 years
Commotion in the Ocean
By Giles Andreae, Illustrated by David Wojtowycz
This collection of poems includes fun rhymes about the creatures who live in and around the ocean. Children will enjoy the snappy poems and colorful illustrations about whales, walruses, penguins, polar bears, stingrays, and sharks. 2-4 years
National Geographic Book of Animal Poetry: 200 Poems with Photographs That Squeak, Soar, and Roar
Selected by U.S. Children’s Poet Laureate J. Patrick Lewis and paired with vibrant animal photography, this collection of poems is a celebration of the animal kingdom and an introduction to poetry.
Divided into chapters that group the poems by theme, the collection is a mix of old and new, classics, and never-before-published. A foreword from Lewis, sets the scene for helping children appreciate this gift of language and this visual feast for the eyes. Chapters include:
Welcome to the World (birth of animal young) Big Ones (large animals–elephants, hippos, rhinos, bears) Little Ones (small animals–worms, insects) Winged Ones (birds and other flying creatures) Water Ones (aquatic animals–fish, dolphins, crabs) Strange Ones (curious creatures–armadillos, centipedes) Noisy Ones (loud animals–lions, hyenas) Quiet Ones (silent or still animals–hens, rabbits, snakes) Last Thought (a reflection on the world we share with animals) 4-8 years
After Dark: Poems About Nocturnal Animals
By David L. Harrison, Illustrated by Stephanie Laberis
This collection of twenty-two poems explores the fascinating lives of North American nocturnal animals.
When the sun goes down, many animals come out. Crickets chirp their crickety song hoping to attract a mate. Cougars bury their leftovers for later, leaving few clues for others to follow. Armadillos emerge from their dens to dig for worms, leaving holes in the lawns they disturb. This collection of poetry from children’s author and poet David L. Harrison explores the lives of animals who are awake after dark. Stephanie Laberis’s atmospheric illustrations will draw in readers, and extensive back matter offers more information about each animal. 5-9 years
Tiger, Tiger Burning Bright: An Animal Poem for Each Day of the Year
By Fiona Waters, Illustrated by Britta Teckentrup
Tiger, Tiger, Burning Bright! is a lovely illustrated collection of 366 animal poems—one for every day of the year. Filled with favorites and new discoveries written by a wide variety of poets, including William Blake, Christina Rosetti, Carl Sandburg, Grace Nichols, Matsuo Basho, Virginia Driving Hawk Sneve, Lewis Carroll, Emily Dickinson, and many more. This is the perfect book for children (and grown-ups!) to share at the beginning or end of the day. 3-7 years
The book descriptions used are primarily from the publishers.
If you like this post, then please consider sharing it and/or leaving a comment below. Thank you! Barbara Lowell, Children’s Author
A baby kangaroo lives in its mother’s pouch. A zebra group is called a dazzle. A mother octopus has 50,000 babies! Find out how animal families care for their young, keep one another safe, and share duties. Accessible and fun K-3 level information reveals the animal world to young readers and researchers. 5-8 years
Sisters and Brothers: Sibling Relationships in the Animal World
By Robin Page and Steve Jenkins
Steve Jenkins and Robin Page investigate sibling relationships throughout the animal kingdom. In this book you will learn that anteaters are always only children and nine-banded armadillos are always born as identical quadruplets. You will also learn that falcons play-hunt in the sky in this book perfect for animal lovers. 4-8 years
What is a Family?
By Annette Griffin, Illustrated by Nichola Cowdery
Ants have a colony.
Bats have a cloud.
Chickens have peeps,
where they can get loud.
All the way from A to Z, this alphabet primer celebrates all kinds of families, giving each animal family a name. With dolphins and their pods, iguanas and their messes, and kitties and their litters, it’s easy to learn about what makes a family of animals. 1-5 years Board Book
Baby Animals and Their Families
By Suzi Eszterhas
Around the world, baby animals grow up in all kinds of families. Whether it’s albatrosses raising babies in big colonies or sibling pairs of polar bears, baby animals with their families are not only adorable―they can teach us about animal behavior, too. 3-6 years
Family: Teaching Love and Affection Towards Family Through Animals in the Wild
By Jaye Garnett, Illustrated by Melanie Mikecz
We play. We love. We care. We are family! Explore the many ways animals express their love and show affection towards members of their family in this story that celebrates the universal bond shared between families of all kinds. From elephant families traveling together holding onto each other for guidance, to a mom chimpanzee grooming her little baby, little ones will love flipping through the sturdy board pages and seeing their favorite animals being comforted by their loved ones.1-4 years Board Book
Meet My Family! Animal Babies and Their Families
By Laura Purdie Salas, Illustrated by Stephanie Fizer Coleman
What kind of families do animal babies have? All different kinds! This book introduces a wolf pup cared for by the pack, a young orangutan snuggling with its mother high in a tree, a poison dart frog tadpole riding piggyback on its dad, and more. Featuring rhyming verse and informational text, this book lets you discover just how diverse the animal kingdom really is! 5-9 years
Animal Families: Safari
Illustrated by Jane Ormes
Find out the different names for mother and father animals while on safari — and then lift the flap to find the babies and learn what they are called. There is even a gatefold ending that includes the group names of the animals. This introduction to animal families features screen-printed artwork and bold neon ink to capture the attention and imagination of babies and toddlers. 2-5 years
All Kinds of Animal Families
By Sophy Henn
From a clownfish mommy and daddy to cheetah daddies who adopt cubs, every combination of modern human family life is reflected here. It’s a warm and friendly introduction to the topic for preschool children, concluding that love is the common factor among all families. 5-8 years
The book descriptions are primarily from the publishers.
If you like this post, then please consider sharing it and/or leaving a comment below. Thank you! Barbara Lowell, Children’s Author
A bear sleeps in a den. A snake might coil around a branch to rest. A crab carries its home on its back! Find out where all kinds of animals live–in the water, up in the trees, or burrowed underground. Accessible and fun K-3 level information reveals the animal world to young readers and researchers. 5-8 years
My Very First Book of Animal Homes
By Eric Carle
In the colorful board book, young children can match each animal with the home it lives in. Where do the bees live? Where does the bird live? Full of vibrant animals, this book is lots of fun for young children. 2-5 years
Do You Know Where Animals Live?
By Peter Wohlleben, Translated by Shelley Tanaka
Have you ever wondered ….
Are worms afraid of the rain?
Do fish use farts to communicate?
Why do elephants stomp their feet?
Do animals dream? What do they dream about?
Do animals get scared, feel happy, or become excited like we do?
In this visual, fun, and interactive book, kids will get to know all sorts of animals, from birds and caterpillars in their own backyard, to grizzly bears in chilly Alaska, to puffer fish in the waters of Australia. This book features quizzes, and activities that will help kids study animals in their own backyards—and make the world a better place for them. 7-9 years
Hello Animals, Where Do You Live?
By Loes Botman
This lively board book introduces young children to a range of animals and the special places they live. Loes Botman’s colorful illustrations bring the animals to life. The simple concepts and words make these books perfect for exploring with young children. 1-3 years
Wild Animal Atlas: Earth’s Astonishing Animals and Where They Live
By National Geographic
Captivating critters, eye-grabbing pictures, weird and freaky facts―what better way for kids to learn geography! In this child-friendly atlas, stunning animal photos combine with colorful, easily accessible maps to teach young readers about geography through the wild creatures that fascinate them. Each world region includes a “spotlight” on animals in the area. Thematic spreads deliver the facts about habitats, endangered species, and more. 4-8 years
Whose Habitat Is That?
By Lucile Piketty, Translated by Lucy Brownridge
Swing through the lush jungle canopy, crunch across the glittering ice floes, prowl through the savanna grasslands. In each habitat, a wild creature hides. Can you guess who they are from the clues they give about themselves?
Children learn what the animal eats, where it lives, what it looks like and what animal family it belongs to, as well as some quirky and funny facts about it in this pop-up book. 5-8 years
National Geographic Kids Readers: Animal Homes
By Shira Evans
Young readers learn all about animal abodes–from cozy dens to towering trees–in this pre-reader from National Geographic Kids. Through text features such as a vocabulary tree, kids will be introduced to vocabulary in concept groups, helping them make connections between words and expand their understanding of the world. 2-5 years
Animal Homes
By Jennifer Bové
This Ranger Rick Jr. book explores the many habitats of North American animals. Through full color photographs, illustrations, and educational text, this book shows that just like us, all sorts of animals have their own ways of building homes. 3-6 years
Animals have jobs too!
Animals Have Jobs
By Nadia Ali
Animals are busy! Sea dragon fathers care for babies. Eagle parents build giant nests. Sea lions stand guard for one another. In every animal community, animals have jobs to do, just like people! Accessible and fun K-3 level information reveals the animal world to young readers and researchers. 5-8 years
The book descriptions are primarily from the publishers.
If you like this post, then please consider sharing it and/or leave a comment below. Thank you! Barbara Lowell, Children’s Author
Did you know that horses can sleep standing up? Or that they have the largest eyes of any land mammal? Find out all about their senses, life cycle, behavior, and more in this fact-filled book. Stunning photos give readers an up-close look at these loyal, majestic companions that have been living and working alongside people for thousands of years. 4-7 years
The Everything Book of Horses and Ponies
By DK
Would you like to learn how to take care of a horse, what equipment to use, or enter the world of equestrian sports? Discover their secrets in this fun book. With colorful photos, fur-tastic facts, and bite-sized information, this book takes you into their fascinating world. Find out about favorite breeds from Shire to Shetland pony. Learn about horses and ponies from around the globe, and be amazed by their beautiful coloring and patterns. 4-8 years
Horses (Little Genius)
By Teesh Holladay, Illustrated by Amelia Herbertson
With super-simple concepts about breeds, colors, features, and more, this book is the perfect introduction for little learners. Each spread features a simple fact about what they eat, where they live, how to take care of them, and what they do, accompanied by illustrations of horses in action. 3 years+
The Book of Horses: The Ultimate Guide to Horses Around the World
By Mortimer Children’s Books
This book celebrates the world of the magnificent horse. It transports readers from the Mongolian steppe to the thrilling racetrack. Discover the white horses of the Camargue that gallop through the sea, the lithe thoroughbreds that race at 43 miles an hour, and the brave war horses that plunged into the horror of battle, and many more. At the same time, readers will learn how to care for them, keeping them in top condition. 8-12 years
The Big Book of Horse Trivia for Kids
By Bernadette Johnson
Whether you are a superfan, budding equestrian, or just plain curious, this trivia book is a galloping good time packed with fun facts. Discover the answers to questions including:
What was the their oldest known ancestor like and in what era of Earth’s history did they live?
How smart are they?
Why are Thoroughbreds called Thoroughbreds?
What’s the difference between a trot, a canter, and a gallop.
You’ll learn about famous racehorses in history: Flora Temple, Man o’ War, Seabiscuit, Secretariat, and French emperor Napoleon Bonaparte’s last horse, whose stuffed remains you can see in a museum to this day! 8-12 years
All About Horses: A Kid’s Guide to Breeds, Care, Riding, And More!
By Kelly Milner Halls
Do you know a young child who dreams of riding? Or loves to learn about what it takes to care for one? This book can teach them! They’ll saddle up and become an expert as they read up on what horses eat, all the gear that keeps them strong and healthy, and how to get started riding.
Kids will take a look at the most popular breeds and what makes them special―like the big and strong Clydesdale and the lean and fast Tennessee Walker. They’ll even learn about how they communicate with humans and how to build a loving bond that lasts a lifetime. 6-9 years
Horses
By Laura Driscoll
Saddle up for a look at kids’ favorite horses—sporting, working, and different breeds, too—in this photographic book for the youngest fan. 3-8 years
Gallop! 100 Fun Facts About Horses
By Kitson Jazynka
Calling all pony lovers, horse fanatics, and bookworms! Trot through 100 equine facts in this leveled reader for fluent readers. Packed with weird-but-true facts and lots of equestrian animal info, this Level 3 Reader gallops right into the world of horses–from wild ponies to superstar racers to the shared history of humans and horses. 7-9 years
The book descriptions used are primarily from the publishers.
If you like this post, then please consider sharing it and/or leaving a comment below. Thank you! Barbara Lowell, Children’s Author
Juneteenth All Different Now, the First Day of Freedom
By Angela Johnson, Illustrated by E.B. Lewis
Through the eyes of one little girl, All Different Now tells the story of the first Juneteenth, the day freedom finally came to the last of the slaves in the South. Since then, the observance of June 19 as African American Emancipation Day has spread across the United States and beyond. This picture book includes notes from the author and illustrator, a timeline of important dates, and a glossary of relevant terms. All Different Now is a joyous portrait of the dawn breaking on the darkest time in our nation’s history. 5-9 years
Juneteenth A Children’s Story
By Opal Lee, Illustrated by Peter Viska
An engaging way to introduce the history of slavery and freedom to children in words they can understand. Ms. Opal highlights the celebration of Juneteenth and the importance of commemorating this milestone all across America. 5-11 years
Juneteenth
By Drew Nelson and Vaundra Micheaux Nelson, Illustrated by Mark Schroder
June 19,1865, began as another hot day in Texas. Enslaved African Americans worked in fields, in barns, and in the homes of the white people who owned them. Then a message arrived. Freedom! Slavery had ended! The Civil War had actually ended in April. It took two months for word to reach Texas. Still the joy of that amazing day has never been forgotten. Every year, people all over the United States come together on June 19th to celebrate the end of slavery. Join in the celebration of Juneteenth, a day to remember and honor freedom for all people. 7-10 years
Juneteenth for Mazie
By Floyd Cooper
Mazie is ready to celebrate liberty. She is ready to celebrate freedom. She is ready to celebrate a great day in American history. The day her ancestors were no longer slaves. Mazie remembers the struggles and the triumph, as she gets ready to celebrate Juneteenth. 6-9 years
Juneteenth Jamboree
By Carole Boston Weatherford, Illustrated by Yvonne Buchanan
Joining her parents in a community celebration of Juneteenth, Cassie learns about the day when slaves in Texas were freed some two years after the Emancipation Proclamation and wonders why the news took so long to reach them. 8-12 years
Opal Lee and What it Means to be Free:
The True Story of the Grandmother of Juneteenth
By Alice Faye Duncan, Illustrated by Keturah A. Bobo
(Forthcoming book January 2022)
The true story Opal Lee and her vision of Juneteenth as a holiday for everyone, celebrates Black joy and inspires children to see their dreams blossom. Growing up in Texas, Opal knew the history of Juneteenth, but she soon discovered that many Americans had never heard of the holiday that represents the nation’s creed of “freedom for all.”
Every year, Opal looked forward to the Juneteenth picnic–a drumming, dancing, delicious party. She knew from Granddaddy Zak’s stories that Juneteenth celebrated the day the freedom news of President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation finally sailed into Texas in 1865–over two years after the president had declared it! But Opal didn’t always see freedom in her Texas town.
Then one Juneteenth day when Opal was twelve years old, an angry crowd burned down her brand-new home. This wasn’t freedom at all. She had to do something! Opal Lee spent the rest of her life speaking up for equality and unity. She became a teacher, a charity worker, and a community leader. At the age of 89, she walked from Fort Worth, Texas, to Washington, D.C., in an effort to gain national recognition for Juneteenth. 4-8 years
Juneteenth
By Anece Rochell, Illustrated by Audeva Joseph
Daylen is excited and ready to share everything he knows about Juneteenth. This is a picture book that explains the origin, customs, and importance of the Juneteenth Holiday, in a fun and interactive way. Juneteenth ends with a words to know page, to help children build a stronger vocabulary. 4-10 years
The Story of Juneteenth: An Interactive History Adventure
By Steven Otfinoski
The Emancipation Proclamation and the Civil War had brought an official end to slavery, yet some Southern slave owners refused to comply. The road to freedom was still long and hard for many African Americans, but they didn’t give up. Will you: overcome obstacles as you make your way north from Texas, looking to begin a new life of freedom? Will you: seek out your family, from whom you were separated as a child? Will you: fight back when you take work as an apprentice but find that you’re still treated as a slave? This book offers multiple perspectives on history and gives readers a front-row seat to the past. 8-11 years
Juneteenth: First Step Nonfiction, American Holidays
By Robin Nelson
This book is a basic overview of Juneteenth for emergent readers. Color photographs reflect the short, easy-to-understand sentences that improve vocabulary and comprehension. 5-8 years
The book descriptions used are primarily from the publishers.
If you like this post, then please consider sharing it and/or leaving a comment below. Thank you! Barbara Lowell, Children’s Author
Over deserts and forests, Arctic tundra and tropical beaches, the moon shines down on creatures around the world. Children will discover how it changes from day to day as the lunar cycle is shown through peek-through holes, each revealing the moon in a different size and shape. 3-7 years
Moon! Earth’s Best Friend
By Stacy McAnulty, Illustrated by Stevie Lewis
Meet Moon! She’s more than just a rock―she’s Earth’s rock, her best friend she can always count on. She never turns her back on her friend (literally: she’s always facing Earth with the same side!) These two will stick together forever. With humor and charm, Stacy McAnulty channels the voice of Moon in this celestial “autobiography” in the Our Universe series. 4-8 years
The Moon Book
By Gail Gibbons
An up-to-date, clear and interesting introduction to our magnificent moon from the the award-winning author of science books for children. Shining light on all kinds of fascinating facts, this simple, introductory book includes information on how the moon affects the oceans’ tides, why the same side of the moon always faces earth, why we have eclipses, and more. 4-8 years
I Am the Moon
By Rebecca and James McDonald
Put on your spacesuit and helmet. Children ages will learn easy to follow facts through imaginative illustrations.
The Moon is beautiful to look at in the night sky, and it also plays an important part in the cycle of life on Earth. And maybe someday it will be a place people call home. This book is a great starting point for teaching young children the basics. Colorful illustrations and facts explained in a fun and easy to follow way keep children’s attention. 3-5 years
How We Got to the Moon: The People, Technology, and Daring Feat of Science Behind Humanity’s Greatest Adventure
By John Rocco
Everyone knows of Neil Armstrong’s famous first steps on the moon. But what did it really take to get us there?
From the shocking launch of the Russian satellite Sputnik to the triumphant splashdown of Apollo 11, Caldecott Honor winner John Rocco answers every possible question about this world-altering mission. Each challenging step in the space race is revealed, examined, and displayed through diagrams, experiments, moments of crisis, and unforgettable human stories. Explorers of all ages will want to pour over every page in this book detailing the grandest human adventure of all time! 10 and up
Next Time You See the Moon
By Emily Morgan
Children will learn about many of the Moon’s mysteries: what makes it look like a silvery crescent one time and a chalk-white ball a few nights later, why it sometimes appears in the daytime, the science behind its shape, where it gets its light and how scientists can predict its shape on your birthday a thousand years from now. 5-10 years
Once in a Full Moon
By Carolinda Goodman, Illustrated by Mariia Luzina
Once a month a full moon rises in the night sky. But every time it does, this big gleaming circle has a different name! From January’s Wolf Moon to June’s Strawberry Moon to the Harvest Moon of September, in lively rhyme, this book tells the stories behind this monthly visitor, many of which come from Native American tradition. 3-7 years
If You Had Your Birthday Party on the Moon
By Joyce Lapin, Illustrated by Simona Ceccarelli
Have your birthday party on the moon and everyone will come! After all, who wouldn’t want to ride in a rocket and celebrate for a day that lasts as long as a month on Earth? Then, young partygoers could romp in a low-gravity playground; watch candles and balloons behave weirdly in the atmosphere; and see why the “moon angels” they make in the thick carpet of lunar dust will last for thousands of years. With each discovery, kids learn the science behind the surprise. Complete with sidebars and a glossary, this adventure is perfect for sharing at home and at school. 7 and up
50 Things to See on the Moon: A First-Time Stargazer’s Guide
By John A. Read
The moon is our nearest neighbor in space, it’s easy to find, it’s bright, and you don’t have to go anywhere special to view it. Astronomer John A. Read has selected fifty of the best things to see — organized by the phases of the Moon. As each day passes, an additional slice becomes visible. With each slice comes new craters, lunar seas, and jagged mountain ranges. This book is for a first-time stargazer who is curious about what is up there. 5-7 years
The book descriptions used are primarily from the publishers.
If you like this post, then please consider sharing it and/or leaving a comment below. Thank you! Barbara Lowell, Children’s Author
Meet Mars! The red planet. Planet Marvelous. Favorite sibling of Earth (or so he claims). Sometimes they’re close (just 34.5 million miles apart). Sometimes they need space (250 million miles apart). Earth and Mars have a lot in common―clouds, mountains, polar icecaps. And while Earth has Earthlings, Mars makes a persuasive case for why people should make the journey to spend time with him. His day is 7 minutes longer. He is home to the largest volcano in the whole solar system. He’s, well, marvelous. 4-8 years
Mars First Friends: Come on Over Rovers!
By Susanna Leonard Hill, Illustrated by Elisa Paganelli
In a solar system full of planets, Mars feels all alone. All Mars wants is someone to play with, but all of the planets are just too busy. Mars can’t help but wonder…will he ever get a playmate? Until one day, Earth sends her little brother Mars his first friends: the rovers Spirit and Opportunity.
Learn about Mars’ rovers through this universal story about man’s―and Mars’―best friends―our beloved pets. This solar system book is the perfect book for little adventurers searching for more books on pets and space books for kids. 4-8 years
Curiosity: The Story of a Mars Rover
By Markus Motum
Maybe you remember when a little robotic spacecraft landed on a far-off planet. On August 6, 2012, the rover Curiosity touched down on the rocky surface of Mars — and now she’s ready to guide you through her journey firsthand. From idea to creation and beyond, this fact-filled book introduces readers to Curiosity and her mission: to discover more about the red planet and search for evidence of life.
How did Curiosity get her name? What tools does she use to carry out her tasks? In her own voice, the popular NASA rover tells how and why she traveled more than 350,000,000 miles to explore a planet no human has ever visited . . . and what she’s been doing there. 8-12 years
The Mighty Mars Rover: The Incredible Adventures of Spirt and Opportunity
By Elizabeth Rusch
On June 10, 2003, a little rover named Spirit blasted off on a rocket headed for Mars. On July 7, 2003, a twin rover named Opportunity soared through the solar system with the same mission: to find out if Mars ever had water that could have supported life. The Mighty Mars Rovers tells the story of the greatest space robot adventure of all time through the eyes—and heart—of Steven Squyres, professor of astronomy at Cornell University and lead scientist on the mission. This book captures the hair-raising human emotions felt during the adventures with two tough rovers. 10-12 years
National Geographic Reader: Mars
By Elizabeth Carney
Discover the fascinating world of Mars in this colorful book. In this format, kids will learn about the newest information on Mars, the Mars Rover, and our ongoing exploration of the Red Planet. This level 3 reader is written in an easy-to-grasp style to encourage the scientists and explorers of tomorrow! 6-9 years
Rover Throws a Party
Kristin L. Gray, Illustrated by Scott Magoon
It’s Rover’s anniversary on Mars! Time to celebrate by throwing the best party this planet has ever seen. Rover hands out invitations all over town, but it seems like he’s the only one around. Will anyone come to the party, or will Rover be all alone on his big day?
In 2013, NASA programmed their Curiosity rover to hum “Happy Birthday to You” in honor of its first year on Mars. Inspired by this anecdote, this is the tale of a lonely rover and his party, accompanied by fascinating Mars rover facts that help explain the real science behind the story. This fun birthday tale provides an accessible, kid-friendly look at one of NASA’s coolest programs. 3-7 years
Night Night, Curiosity
By Brianna Caplan, Illustrated by Ryan O’Rourke
In this rhyming bedtime book, a girl whose mother works at NASA imagines that she’s exploring Mars with the Curiosity rover as she gets ready for bed. She describes taking off, observing Mars, communicating with mission control, and operating the rover. Young space explorers everywhere will want to head for Mars, too. 3-7 years
Red Rover: Curiosity on Mars
By Richard Ho, Illustrated by Katherine Roy
Mars has a visitor. It likes to roam…observe…measure…and collect. It explores the red landscape―crossing plains, climbing hills, and tracing the bottoms of craters―in search of water and life. It is not the first to visit Mars. It will not be the last. But it might be…the most curious. Join Curiosity on its journey across the red planet in this nonfiction picture book by Richard Ho, illustrated by Sibert Honor winner Katherine Roy. 3-6 years
Spirit and Oppy
By Rachel Viniguerra, Illustrated by Samantha Gottwalt
Have you heard the story of the twin sisters who explored the surface of Mars? They were NASA’s twin rovers, Spirit and Opportunity (or Oppy for short). The two sisters traveled to Mars in 2003 and explored the vast planet. Although Oppy’s mission was only meant to last 90 days, she explored for 15 years overcoming obstacles with creative solutions. The sisters showed the world just how much two small rovers can do right up until the end of their missions. 5-9 years
Exploring Space: From Galileo to the Mars Rover and Beyond
By Martin Jenkins, Illustrated by Stephen Biesty
For centuries, humans have looked up at the night sky and wondered what it’s like deep in space, far from Earth — and now we’ve begun to find out. We’ve landed on the moon, put robots on Mars, and sent space probes billions of miles to explore the far reaches of our solar system. Find out what life is like on the International Space Station, what the chances are that we will ever settle on Mars, where in the solar system we might find alien life, and why visiting other stars will almost certainly remain a dream. Budding astronomers, junior astronauts, and anyone who has ever gazed up at the stars will enjoy this glimpse of the infinite wonders of space. 8-12 years
Moving to Mars
By Stef Wade, Illustrated by Erin Taylor
Mars likes peace and quiet and is not happy when unexpected visitors start showing up. But when they leave, Mars realizes being alone isn’t all that great. Mars reaches out to his space friends for comfort and help. Maybe Mars is a people planet after all! Author Stef Wade (A Place for Pluto) interweaves friendship and humor throughout the space story and seamlessly connects nonfiction information to the narrative in the back matter. 5-7 years
The book descriptions used are primarily from the publishers.
If you like this post, then please consider sharing it and/or leaving a comment below. Thank you! Barbara Lowell, Children’s Author
