Anna and the Magic Coat
Level K,
fiction
It looks like Anna's school picnic will be ruined by rain. But Oma tells Anna about Opa's magic coat, which can change the weather. Anna dons the enormous coat and commands the sun to shine. In the beautiful weather, everyone has fun at the picnicâeveryone except Anna. How can she enjoy a picnic while wearing a coat that makes her too slow to play and too hot to eat?
Friends Around the World
Level K,
fiction
Friends Around the World is about children from various countries around the world. All of the children in the book tell their name and where they live. They also share something about what they like to do and a type of food they like to eat. The reader is invited to become part of the global circle of friends.
Barack Obama
Level K,
nonfiction
Barack Obama is a biographical text about the forty-fourth president of the United States of America. Chronicling his life from birth until his historic election, the book educates readers on how Obama's life experiences shaped his decisions and career path. Background information about his family life, struggles, and career choices gives readers insight into Obama's personal side.
How Glooskap Found Summer
Level K,
fiction
In this simple yet compelling Native American tale, Glooskap, the leader of the people, seeks a way to end the perilous winter that has gripped the land. He finds that a giant named Winter has caused the cold weather. After escaping from Winter's spells, Glooskap travels far to the south and finds a woman who can defeat the giant and bring warmth to the land.
How Zebras Got Their Stripes
Level K,
fiction
How Zebras Got Their Stripes is a folktale about two donkeys who are tired of working and want an easier life. They meet a wise man who devises a solution to their problem: to turn the donkeys into zebras.
Extreme Animals
Level K,
nonfiction
In Extreme Animals, readers can discover why a flamingo is pink and what animal lives the longest. This is an informational text containing many fun facts about animals. After reading this book, children will be able to share amazing facts about the richly varied animal kingdom with their friends and family.
Hugs for Daddy
Level K,
fiction
Hannah's dad has an important job--he's in the military. When her dad has to go away, Hannah is very sad. She and her mom gather things to send to her dad. What Hannah misses most are her dad's bedtime hugs. How will she find a way to send some hugs to her dad?
I'd like To Be
Level K,
fiction
This story explores some of the wonderful possibilities children have before them when thinking about growing up. Written in poetry form, various occupations, both real and fantasy, are described in clear language and depicted through amusing photos.
Fishing in the Rain
Level K,
fiction
Even though it rains and rains, the Hoppers set out on a fishing and camping trip with Grandpa Grizzly. The Hoppers begin to cough and sneeze, but before they head back into the tent, Snubby Nose takes a spill into the river! Grandpa Grizzly dives into the water and retrieves Snubby Nose, his fishing pole, and a special surprise.
It's About Time
Level K,
nonfiction
Knowing the time helps us be where we are supposed to be, whether it's at school, at a piano lesson, or at soccer practice. This informational book looks at clocks that were used to tell time long ago, as well as clocks used today. Students will read about shadow clocks, sundials, candle clocks, and water clocks.
Lance and His Bicycle
Level K,
nonfiction
Lots of people like to ride bicycles, so what makes Lance Armstrong different? He is the only cyclist in the world to win the Tour de France, a difficult 3-week-long bike race, 7 times! His story of courage and determination inspires readers of all ages.
Leap! A Salmon's Story
Level K,
fiction
Leap! A Salmon's Story is a fictional tale about a salmon who has a very special, if not popular, talent. When she and her fellow salmon begin their long and tiring journey upstream to lay their eggs, the salmon's special ability helps save the fish from a hungry bear. As a result, the salmon are able to return home to spawn. The salmon life cycle is emphasized. Charming illustrations support the text.
Maria's Family Celebration
Level K,
fiction
Maria's Family Celebration follows Maria and her brother, Luis, as they prepare to celebrate Mexican Independence Day with their family. They decorate the house, practice their dancing, and dress in their special party clothes. Illustrations support the text.
Ratty Rats
Level K,
fiction
Ratty Rats is a fictional tale about a group of rats that sneak onto a ship that is getting ready to sail. The rats run to the cargo bay and proceed to get settled for the journey. They eat the sailors' stored food, chew the ship's anchor rope, and eat through the ship's sails. The captain becomes very angry, but the crew refuses to acquiesce to his solution.
Ships and Boats
Level K,
nonfiction
From a simple canoe to a flashy cruise ship, students learn about all kinds of watercraft in this informative book. The book traces the history and development of boats used for both work and play. Photographs and illustrations support the text.
Slithery and Slimy
Level K,
nonfiction
Slithery and Slimy is an informative introduction to reptiles and amphibians. The many wonderful animals pictured in the book will raise children's interest about the two groups of animals, and the text will help them understand the features that distinguish each group. Children will enjoy the images of exotic frogs, snakes, and lizards as they learn about them.
Strange Plants
Level K,
nonfiction
Strange Plants is an informative look at unusual plants around the world. This book includes photographs of these strange plants and descriptions of their unusual qualities. Readers will be fascinated as they learn about carnivorous plants and other amazing members of the plant kingdom.
Where We Get Energy
Level K,
nonfiction
Where We Get Energy gives readers an informative and important lesson in where our energy comes from. The book reviews how we use energy, what kinds we use, and where each kind comes from. Clear, easy-to-understand photographs enhance the text.