Author Profile
Patricia Polacco
46 Books
Patricia Polacco is a celebrated American author and illustrator of beloved children's picture books. Drawing heavily from her own family history, diverse heritage, and personal experiences, she weaves poignant tales that emphasize themes of intergenerational wisdom, empathy, and overcoming adversity. She is widely recognized for her deeply emotional and intricately illustrated works, including acclaimed titles like Thunder Cake and Pink and Say.
Gifts of the Heart
Patricia Polacco
Family
Fiction
-
/5
Pink and Say
Patricia Polacco
Courage
Diverse Voices
-
/5
Luba and the Wren
Patricia Polacco
Animals
Fairy Tales
-
/5
Meteor!
Patricia Polacco
Family
Magic
-
/5
The Lemonade Club
Patricia Polacco
Empathy
Friendship
-
/5
Something About Hensley's
Patricia Polacco
Empathy
Friendship
-
/5
Betty Doll
Patricia Polacco
Courage
Crafts
-
/5
The Junkyard Wonders
Patricia Polacco
Disability Representation
Diverse Voices
-
/5
Rechenka's Eggs
Patricia Polacco
Animals
Art
-
/5
John Philip Duck
Patricia Polacco
Animals
Birds
-
/5
Thunder Cake
Patricia Polacco
Cooking
Courage
-
/5
Mr. Wayne's Masterpiece
Patricia Polacco
Art
Courage
-
/5
Appelemando's Dreams
Patricia Polacco
Art
Dreams
-
/5
Mr. Lincoln's Way
Patricia Polacco
Birds
Empathy
-
/5
Babushka Baba Yaga
Patricia Polacco
Empathy
Fairy Tales
-
/5
The Keeping Quilt
Patricia Polacco
Classics
Crafts
-
/5
Just Plain Fancy
Patricia Polacco
Animals
Birds
-
/5
January's Sparrow
Patricia Polacco
Courage
Diverse Voices
-
/5
Babushka's Doll
Patricia Polacco
Empathy
Family
-
/5
Tucky Jo and Little Heart
Patricia Polacco
Courage
Friendship
-
/5
Bun Bun Button
Patricia Polacco
Adventure
Family
-
/5
The Butterfly
Patricia Polacco
Courage
Friendship
-
/5
Rotten Richie and the Ultimate Dare
Patricia Polacco
Family
Fiction
-
/5
Uncle Vova's Tree
Patricia Polacco
Culture
Family
-
/5
The Bee Tree
Patricia Polacco
Adventure
Family
-
/5
Some Birthday!
Patricia Polacco
Adventure
Family
-
/5
Thank You, Mr. Falker
Patricia Polacco
Courage
Disability Representation
-
/5
Clara and Davie: The True Story of Young Clara Barton, Founder of the American Red Cross
Patricia Polacco
Courage
Disability Representation
-
/5
Fiona's Lace
Patricia Polacco
Art
Courage
-
/5
Bully
Patricia Polacco
Courage
Empathy
-
/5
The Blessing Cup
Patricia Polacco
Culture
Family
-
/5
In Our Mothers' House
Patricia Polacco
Diverse Voices
Emotions
-
/5
A Christmas Tapestry
Patricia Polacco
Family
Fiction
-
/5
I Can Hear the Sun
Patricia Polacco
Animals
Birds
-
/5
Emma Kate
Patricia Polacco
Animals
Fiction
-
/5
For the Love of Autumn
Patricia Polacco
Cats
Fiction
-
/5
Picnic at Mudsock Meadow
Patricia Polacco
Fiction
Friendship
-
/5
My Rotten Redheaded Older Brother
Patricia Polacco
Family
Fiction
-
/5
Tikvah Means Hope
Patricia Polacco
Cats
Family
-
/5
Welcome Comfort
Patricia Polacco
Fiction
Friendship
-
/5
Richie and Trisha are determined to buy the perfect Christmas gifts for their family, but their piggy banks are completely empty. They do not know how they will make the holiday special until a new housekeeper named Kay Lamity arrives at their farmhouse. Brimming with energy and a wonderfully positive attitude, Kay turns their ordinary days upside down.
As the holiday draws closer, Kay helps the children understand that the best presents cannot be bought in a store. She teaches them the difference between things that cost money and the unforgettable treasures that come straight from the heart. You will be swept up in the warmth and joy of this magical holiday tale. Complete with mysterious sleigh tracks on the farmhouse roof, this story shows how imagination and love are the greatest gifts anyone can receive.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
44 Pages
N/A
/5
When Sheldon Russell Curtis is left for dead in a Georgia pasture, he thinks his part in the Civil War is over. But then Pinkus Aylee, a fellow Union soldier whose skin is the color of polished mahogany, finds him. Pinkus carries the wounded boy from the battlefield to the safety of his mother's home. Moe Moe Bay cares for both boys with gentle hands, offering a brief sanctuary from the horrors of the war raging around them. However, hiding two Union soldiers deep in Confederate territory puts Moe Moe Bay in terrible danger. Knowing they must return to their outfits, Pink and Say face a terrifying journey back to the front lines. But before they can make their escape, marauding Confederate troops arrive, forcing the boys into a desperate situation. Passed down through generations of the author's own family, this powerful true story celebrates the shared humanity that can bloom even in the darkest times. It is an unforgettable testament to courage, sacrifice, and the enduring bonds of friendship.
9-12 Years
13-18 Years
48 Pages
N/A
/5
Luba is a happy young girl who loves her simple life in the forest with her parents. One day, she rescues a tiny wren trapped in a net. To her amazement, the little bird speaks, offering to grant her any wish in return for his freedom. Luba wants nothing, but her parents have many desires. First, they ask for a larger house. Then, they want a grand estate. With each request, the magic wren delivers, but Luba's parents are never satisfied. Soon, they are demanding to be the Tsar and Tsarina of all of Russia! You will watch as Luba bravely returns to the forest again and again, asking the wren for bigger and more incredible things. This beautiful retelling of a classic Russian folktale explores what happens when we forget to appreciate the simple joys we already have.
6-8 Years
N/A
/5
A quiet evening in Mudsock Meadow turns upside down when a glowing, whistling meteor crashes right into Grandma and Grandpa Gaw's front yard. Suddenly, this sleepy country town is the most exciting place on Earth. The fallen star seems to bring a strange, wonderful magic to everyone who touches it. The local band plays better than ever, the town crank suddenly smiles, and the whole neighborhood feels alive with joy and wonder. You will join the townspeople as they celebrate their spectacular visitor from space with a parade and a festival like no other. Based on a remarkable true event from the author's own family, this enchanting story captures the thrill of a cosmic surprise. It is a heartwarming reminder that extraordinary things can happen in the most ordinary places.
6-8 Years
34 Pages
N/A
/5
Fifth grade is supposed to be the best year ever for best friends Traci and Marilyn. They love their classroom, and their amazing teacher, Miss Wichelman, always reminds them that when life hands you lemons, you have to make lemonade. But the school year takes a sudden and frightening turn when Marilyn starts losing weight and feeling exhausted. The devastating news arrives: Marilyn has leukemia. As she faces the difficult road of medical treatments, the classroom feels entirely different without her bright spirit. Then, another unexpected shock hits the school when Miss Wichelman receives her own cancer diagnosis. Instead of giving up, Traci and the rest of the fifth-grade class decide to take their teacher's favorite advice to heart. They band together to show Marilyn and Miss Wichelman that they are never fighting alone. Based on a deeply moving true story, this inspiring journey shows you the incredible healing power of friendship, empathy, and community. You will see how a group of dedicated kids can turn the sourest lemons into the sweetest lemonade.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
48 Pages
N/A
/5
Old John seems to possess a special kind of magic. As the manager of Hensley's general store, he always knows exactly what the townsfolk need before they even ask. Whether it is a hard-to-find tool or a specific color of thread, Hensley's has it. When a new family moves into town, they bring a big problem. The youngest child, Molly, struggles with asthma, and her mother cannot afford the medical care she desperately needs. It looks like an impossible situation. But leave it to Old John to search the aisles of his remarkable store for a solution. You will see how one person's generosity can completely change a family's life. This deeply moving true story proves that the greatest gifts we can offer each other are kindness and compassion, and those cannot be bought in any store.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
48 Pages
N/A
/5
Mary Ann has a secret friend who goes everywhere with her. She is a small, handmade rag doll named Betty. Through childhood adventures, scraped knees, and quiet moments, Betty Doll is always tucked safely in Mary Ann's pocket. As Mary Ann grows up, gets married, and has children of her own, the little doll remains a treasured companion. When a fierce blizzard traps the family inside their home, it is the memory and the presence of this tiny, beloved toy that helps Mary Ann find the strength to keep her children safe and warm. You will discover the beautiful ways that love and cherished memories are passed down through generations. This gentle, true story celebrates the simple objects that hold our families together and the quiet courage we find when we need it most.
6-8 Years
44 Pages
N/A
/5
Young Trisha is completely devastated on her first day at a brand new school. She moved to this town hoping for a fresh start, but instead, she finds herself assigned to a special education classroom that the other students cruelly call the junkyard. Feeling like a misfit, Trisha expects the worst. But everything changes the moment she meets her brilliant and unconventional teacher, Mrs. Peterson. Instead of seeing a room full of outcasts, Mrs. Peterson sees a classroom bursting with hidden genius. She introduces Trisha to a wonderful group of classmates who have unique talents and bright minds. Together, they learn that a junkyard is not a place for broken things, but a place where amazing treasures are waiting to be discovered. Based on the author's own childhood experiences, this heartwarming story celebrates the life-changing impact of a truly great teacher. You will be inspired by this powerful journey of friendship, self-discovery, and the realization that being different is your greatest strength.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
48 Pages
N/A
/5
Old Babushka is famous throughout the city of Moskva for painting the most magnificent Easter eggs. Every year, she carefully crafts beautiful, intricate designs to show at the Easter Festival. Her quiet life changes when she rescues a wild goose that has been injured by hunters. She names her new friend Rechenka, and the two live happily together. But disaster strikes when Rechenka accidentally flaps her wings and shatters every single one of Babushka’s masterpieces! Babushka is heartbroken, fearing she will have nothing for the festival. The very next morning, however, the goose leaves behind a brilliant, unexpected surprise in the basket. You will marvel at the magic that unfolds in this tender story of kindness and forgiveness. The stunning Ukrainian-style artwork brings this timeless tale of a gentle miracle to life.
6-8 Years
32 Pages
N/A
/5
Edward has a very unusual best friend. Since it was just a tiny hatchling, he has raised a clever duck that follows him absolutely everywhere. The duck is so smart, it can even waddle in perfect time to the lively marching music of John Philip Sousa! But Edward works at a very fancy hotel in Memphis, and wild animals are strictly forbidden in the grand lobby. When the hotel manager discovers John Philip swimming in the expensive indoor fountain, Edward is sure they are both in terrible trouble. To save his pet, Edward makes a bold promise: he will train an entire flock of ducks to march into the fountain every morning and march out every night. You will cheer for Edward and his marching ducks as they try to pull off the greatest show the hotel has ever seen.
6-8 Years
48 Pages
N/A
/5
A sudden flash of lightning and a massive boom of thunder send a little girl diving straight under her bed. Storms are terrifying! But her wise Russian grandmother, Babushka, knows exactly what to do. She declares that it is the perfect weather to bake a special Thunder Cake. To make the recipe work, the cake must be in the oven before the storm arrives. Together, they rush across the farm to gather the ingredients. They have to bravely collect eggs from the mean old chicken, milk the kicking cow, and grab tomatoes and strawberries from the garden, all while the thunder growls closer and closer. You will count the seconds between the lightning flashes alongside them as they race against the dark clouds. This heartwarming story transforms a scary thunderstorm into a thrilling adventure about facing your fears.
6-8 Years
32 Pages
N/A
/5
The absolute worst thing Trisha can imagine is standing in front of a crowd. Her fear of public speaking is completely paralyzing. So when she gets assigned to Mr. Wayne's drama class, she is terrified. Recognizing her fear, her wonderful teacher gives her a safe job behind the scenes painting the sets for the big winter play. While she paints, she quietly listens to the actors rehearse. Without even trying, Trisha memorizes every single line of the lead role. Disaster strikes just days before opening night when the star actress suddenly moves away. Trisha is the only person left who knows the part! When she steps on stage to practice, her voice completely vanishes. You will root for Trisha as Mr. Wayne patiently coaches her to find her courage and her voice. This inspiring true story celebrates the incredible teachers who help us discover our hidden talents.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
42 Pages
N/A
/5
Appelemando is a boy whose imagination is so powerful that his dreams actually drift right out of his head and into the sky! His loyal friends love watching the beautiful colors and shapes float by. But the strict adults in the village think daydreaming is a complete waste of time. One rainy afternoon, a strong wind blows Appelemando's colorful dreams onto the wet walls and roofs of the town buildings. The villagers are furious, blaming the children for painting the town. No one believes that the pictures are made of pure imagination. But when the children get hopelessly lost in the dark, dense forest, it is Appelemando's special gift that might be their only way home. You will be captivated by this magical story that proves the incredible value of a creative mind and the unwavering support of true friends.
6-8 Years
34 Pages
N/A
/5
Mr. Lincoln is the kind of school principal every kid wishes they had. He jumps rope at recess, leads fascinating nature walks, and makes every student feel special. But he cannot seem to reach Eugene Esterhause. Everyone calls him Mean Gene because he bullies the other kids and uses cruel, racist language. While others have given up on Eugene, Mr. Lincoln sees beyond the tough exterior. He realizes the boy is repeating the hateful things he hears at home. When Mr. Lincoln discovers that Eugene has a hidden passion for watching birds, he sees an opportunity. He invites Eugene to help him attract a beautiful, diverse flock to the school's new atrium. You will watch as a patient teacher uses the beauty of nature to teach a troubled boy about tolerance, respect, and the wonderful differences that make people unique.
6-8 Years
48 Pages
N/A
/5
Deep in the Russian forest lives a creature that everyone fears. According to the old legends, Baba Yaga is a terrifying witch who eats children! But the truth is very different. This Baba Yaga is just a lonely old woman who watches the villagers from afar, wishing she had a sweet little grandchild of her own to love and care for. Realizing that her wild appearance scares people away, she decides to disguise herself as an ordinary grandmother, a babushka. She quietly enters the village and takes a job caring for a little boy named Victor. They share stories, laughter, and a deep bond. But what will happen if the villagers discover who is really rocking the child to sleep? You will love this heartwarming twist on a classic folktale that proves you can never judge someone by the stories you hear.
6-8 Years
32 Pages
N/A
/5
When Anna's family leaves Russia to start a new life in America, they leave almost everything behind. To remember their old home and the relatives they miss, Anna's mother gathers a basket of outgrown clothing. She takes Uncle Vladimir's shirt, Aunt Havalah's nightdress, and her own babushka, sewing them all together into a beautiful quilt. This special blanket becomes the heart of their family. For almost a hundred years, it is passed down from mother to daughter. It serves as a warm blanket for welcoming new babies, a picnic cloth for Sunday afternoons, and a beautiful canopy for family weddings. You will trace the history of four generations through the vibrant fabric of this single blanket. This deeply personal true story celebrates the enduring traditions and deep love that tie families together across time and distance.
6-8 Years
64 Pages
N/A
/5
Naomi lives on a beautiful Pennsylvania farm, surrounded by the quiet, simple traditions of her Amish family. She knows that in her community, everything is supposed to be plain. But while doing her chores, Naomi and her little sister Ruth find a mysterious, abandoned egg. They decide to hatch it, keeping it a secret from the elders. When the shell finally cracks, out pops a chick that is anything but plain! As the bird grows, it develops brilliant, colorful feathers that are definitely too fancy for an Amish farm. Naomi is terrified that she will be punished and the bird will be sent away. The tension rises as the day of the community gathering arrives, and the magnificent bird decides to make a grand entrance. You will smile at this gentle story about accepting surprises and learning that a little bit of fancy can be a wonderful thing.
6-8 Years
32 Pages
N/A
/5
The Crosswhite family is forced to make a terrifying choice in the dead of night. After witnessing the brutal murder of a beloved man named January on the Kentucky plantation where they are enslaved, they know they must run for their lives. Young Sadie has to leave everything behind, except for a small, wooden sparrow carved for her by January. Guided by the courageous conductors of the Underground Railroad, the family makes a dangerous and exhausting journey to a free town in Michigan. For a brief time, they find safety and happiness in their new community. But the horrors of the past are not far behind. When a mysterious package appears on their doorstep containing January's sparrow and a terrifying note, Sadie realizes they have been found. You will be on the edge of your seat as the Crosswhites and their brave new neighbors stand together to face the slave catchers. This gripping true story highlights the power of community and the fierce fight for freedom.
9-12 Years
98 Pages
N/A
/5
Natasha is a very demanding little girl. She wants her Babushka to stop doing chores and play with her right this very second! When her grandmother needs to step out to the store, she finally lets Natasha play with a very special, fragile doll from the high shelf. Babushka warns her that she only played with the doll once when she was a little girl. As soon as Natasha is alone, the magical doll springs to life! But this is no sweet plaything. The doll is bossy, loud, and incredibly naughty, demanding that Natasha feed her, dress her, and entertain her immediately. You will laugh out loud as Natasha scrambles to keep up with the impossible demands of her new toy. By the time her grandmother returns, Natasha has learned a very valuable lesson about patience and how it feels to be the one doing all the work.
6-8 Years
36 Pages
N/A
/5
Johnnie is only fifteen years old when he lies about his age to join the army during World War II. Shipped off to the humid jungles of the Philippines, he finds himself terrified and surrounded by the horrors of war. One day, while standing guard, he meets a frightened little girl from a local village. He gives her the nickname Little Heart, and he becomes her Tucky Jo. Despite not speaking the same language, they form a deep bond. Johnnie shares his rations to save her and her village from starvation, and in return, Little Heart gives him the courage and humanity he needs to survive the war. Many decades later, an unexpected twist of fate reunites them in a moment when Johnnie needs help the most. You will be deeply moved by this incredible true story of compassion, proving that an act of kindness can echo across a lifetime.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
48 Pages
N/A
/5
A handmade toy holds a very special kind of magic. Paige Darling absolutely adores Bun Bun Button, a beautifully crafted stuffed rabbit made especially for her by her grandmother. The little rabbit goes everywhere Paige goes, sharing in all her daily adventures and bringing her endless comfort.
The fun takes a sudden turn when Paige decides to tie a shiny helium balloon to her beloved toy. A strong gust of wind catches the balloon, and Bun Bun Button goes floating away into the vast sky. Now, the little stuffed rabbit is on an unexpected journey far from home. You will be on the edge of your seat hoping that a little bit of family luck is enough to bring Paige and her favorite companion back together. This gentle story captures the deep bond between children and the objects they love most.
6-8 Years
41 Pages
N/A
/5
Monique's life in her small French village feels ordinary, even with Nazi soldiers marching through the streets. She does not realize the true danger surrounding her until she makes a startling discovery right inside her own home. Hidden away in the dark basement is Sevrine, a young girl whose family is secretly taking refuge from the war. Despite the terrifying risks, the two girls form a deep and quiet bond. When the sun goes down, they whisper, play, and share their hopes in the shadows of the house. But in a time of war, secrets are incredibly hard to keep. A single, terrifying moment shatters their hidden world, forcing both families into a desperate flight through the night. Based on true events, this powerful story takes you on a gripping journey of bravery, loyalty, and the enduring strength of friendship. You will discover how even the smallest acts of kindness can shine a light in the darkest of times, and how true courage means standing by the people you care about most.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
62 Pages
N/A
/5
Your older brother can be incredibly annoying, especially when his main goal in life is making your days impossible. Richie loves to tease Trisha about her beloved ballet class. He thinks it is just prancing around, while his sport, hockey, is the real deal. But Trisha knows exactly how much hard work, strength, and practice it takes to be a great ballet dancer. She is tired of his teasing and decides it is time to prove him wrong. Trisha challenges Richie to actually perform in her upcoming ballet recital. To her surprise, he agrees but only if she accepts his ultimate dare in return. Trisha has to gear up, step onto the ice, and join his rough-and-tumble hockey team for their big championship game! Get ready for a hilarious clash of tutus and hockey sticks as a brother and sister step into each other's shoes. You will cheer for both of them as they discover what it truly takes to succeed in a brand new sport.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
49 Pages
N/A
/5
Winter brings a very special kind of magic, especially when your family gathers to celebrate. Uncle Vova is the heart of the holidays, filling the house with joy, tradition, and the beautiful Russian customs he loves to share. Every year, he helps everyone decorate the most magnificent Christmas tree, creating a season filled with warmth. But this year, a quiet sadness settles over the family as they remember the laughter he brought to their lives. Just when the holidays seem too difficult to face, something truly extraordinary happens out in the snowy yard. Gather around to witness a beautiful holiday miracle that proves the bonds of love never truly fade. This tender story explores the lasting power of family traditions and the beautiful ways we keep the memory of our loved ones shining bright.
6-8 Years
N/A
/5
Mary Ellen is tired of sitting inside with a book. She wants to be outdoors where the action is! Seeing her restless energy, Grandpa decides it is the perfect time for a real-life adventure. He knows exactly what to do: they are going on a thrilling hunt to find a bee tree. As they dash across the countryside following the buzzing bees, the excitement becomes contagious. Soon, friends and neighbors drop what they are doing to join the wild chase. An entire parade of eager townspeople races toward the sweet prize. But the adventure does not end when the honey is finally found. When everyone returns home, Grandpa shares a very special secret that changes how Mary Ellen looks at her books forever. This heartwarming journey shows you that sometimes, the sweetest rewards in life are the ones you have to work for.
6-8 Years
32 Pages
N/A
/5
You wait all year for your special day to arrive, dreaming of cake, candles, and colorful presents. But when Patricia wakes up on her birthday, her father acts like it is just another ordinary day! He does not mention a party, there are no gifts in sight, and he has not even baked a cake. Instead of celebrating, Dad has a completely different plan in mind. He suggests a nighttime trip to one of the scariest places in the world: the dark and spooky home of the legendary Clay Pit Bottoms Monster. Armed with only a flashlight and their courage, Patricia and her family head out into the shadows. What happens next is a hilarious, heart-pounding adventure full of surprises. Jump into a delightfully spooky journey and discover how a forgotten celebration turns into the wildest, funniest, and absolutely best birthday ever!
6-8 Years
34 Pages
N/A
/5
Little Trisha is an amazing artist who can draw and paint the world beautifully. She cannot wait to start school and finally learn how to read. But when she looks at the words in her books, the letters seem to twist and jumble into a confusing mess. While the other kids begin reading easily, Trisha struggles and starts to believe she just is not smart. The schoolyard can be a lonely place when you feel different. Everything changes when a new teacher arrives. Mr. Falker sees past Trisha's struggles and recognizes her incredible talent and bright mind. He realizes that Trisha has dyslexia, and he promises to help her unlock the magic of reading, no matter how much hard work it takes. Discover a true, inspiring story about the life-changing power of an amazing teacher who refuses to let a student give up.
6-8 Years
40 Pages
N/A
/5
The True Story of Young Clara Barton, Founder of the American Red Cross
By:
Patricia Polacco
Long before she became one of the most famous medical heroes in history, Clara Barton was just a young girl who struggled to find her voice. Animals and flowers are Clara's absolute best friends in the world. She has a natural, gentle way with injured birds and stray critters, finding true joy in making them feel better. But when it comes to talking to people, Clara feels completely stuck. A heavy lisp makes her words come out wrong, and cruel teasing from other children makes her want to hide away in silence. Fortunately, Clara is not alone. Her big brother, Davie, refuses to let her give up on herself. He sees her incredible gift for healing and stands faithfully by her side, reminding her of her worth. When others mock her stilted words, Davie promises her that she is destined for greatness. Discover the inspiring true story of a sibling's unbreakable devotion. This beautiful biography reveals how the founder of the American Red Cross first learned to heal, guided by a brother who believed in her before the rest of the world ever knew her name.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
40 Pages
N/A
/5
Times are hard in Ireland, and Fiona's family must leave their homeland for a new life in America. Arriving in the bustling city of Chicago, they work tirelessly to pay back the cost of their journey. To bring beauty into their lives, Fiona spends her evenings turning simple threads into delicate, glorious lace. Her incredible talent creates a thread of hope for her loved ones. But when a devastating event suddenly separates the family in the massive city, they are left searching desperately for one another. It is the distinct, beautiful patterns of Fiona's handmade lace that might be the only clue to bringing them back together. Follow an unforgettable journey into the heart of a resilient immigrant family. This deeply moving story shows that as long as you hold onto the people you love, your true home will always be with you.
6-8 Years
48 Pages
N/A
/5
Lyla is thrilled to find a great friend in Jamie on her very first day at a new school. The two girls quickly bond, but everything changes when Lyla makes the cheerleading squad. Suddenly, a clique of popular girls invites Lyla into their exclusive circle, leaving Jamie completely behind. At first, the new crowd seems glamorous, but Lyla soon discovers their dark side. When she catches the girls viciously teasing classmates on social media, including her old friend Jamie, Lyla knows she has to make a choice. She bravely decides to walk away from the popular group, but the clique does not take rejection lightly. Now, they are out for revenge, turning their online cruelty directly toward Lyla. This powerful and emotional story tackles the harsh realities of cliques and cyberbullying, showing exactly what it takes to stand up for what is right, protect your true friends, and find your own voice.
9-12 Years
13-18 Years
52 Pages
N/A
/5
Long ago in Russia, a young girl named Anna lives a difficult life with her family, constantly hiding from the Czar's soldiers. Though they are poor and own very few things, they possess one extraordinary treasure: a beautiful china tea set. This special gift came with a magical promise: anyone who drinks from the cups will never know hunger, and their lives will always be filled with joy. When the time comes for Anna's family to flee their home and embark on a long journey to America, they pack the precious tea set to bring its blessings across the sea. In a strange new country, the delicate china becomes a beacon of hope, helping them make new friends and build a beautiful life. Discover a powerful story of heritage and hope that shows how a single family heirloom can carry love across generations.
6-8 Years
N/A
/5
Step inside a warm, cozy home where the kitchen smells like delicious dinners and the living room is filled with laughter. Marmee, Meema, and their children are a bustling, happy family just like any other on their block. They share stories, support each other, and create wonderful memories every single day. But right across the street lives a neighbor who does not understand them, believing that a family simply cannot have two moms. Despite the judgment from outside, Marmee and Meema's house remains a fortress of pure love. They teach their children an important lesson: being different does not mean being wrong. Through the ups and downs of growing up, the children learn that the only thing that truly makes a family is love. Celebrate the beauty of diversity and acceptance in this uplifting story about a wonderful family living happily by their own rules.
6-8 Years
49 Pages
N/A
/5
A massive winter storm has just blown through town, leaving a terrible hole right in the wall of the local church. With Christmas Eve fast approaching, the minister and his son desperately need a miracle to make the sanctuary warm and beautiful for the holiday service. Their luck seems to change when they discover a gorgeous, hand-embroidered tapestry perfect for covering the damage. But this beautiful piece of cloth is far more than just a decoration. When an elderly woman visits the church and sees the tapestry, she is completely stunned. It is the exact same tapestry she made by hand years ago, before she was tragically separated from her beloved husband during the chaos of World War II. As the holiday service begins, a quiet miracle unfolds that will change multiple lives forever. Uncover a breathtaking story of hope, resilience, and the mysterious ways the universe brings people back together. This heartwarming holiday tale reminds us that the greatest gifts cannot be wrapped in a box.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
52 Pages
N/A
/5
Life has been incredibly hard for a quiet, lonely boy named Fondo. Without a real home or a family to care for him, he spends his days wandering the paths of a beautiful city park. There, he finds an unexpected family among the park's vibrant community of animals and the kindhearted people who feed them, especially a gentle woman named Stephanie. Fondo has a truly special gift: he can hear the voices of the geese, and he understands the natural world in a way no one else does. But when Fondo learns he is about to be sent away to an orphanage, he feels completely desperate. As the cold winter approaches and the geese prepare to fly south, Fondo needs a miracle to escape his tragic fate. Discover a breathtaking story about friendship, believing in the impossible, and finding your flock. This beautifully illustrated tale explores the magic that happens when you open your heart to the wonders of nature and trust in the power of hope.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
N/A
/5
Emma Kate and her best friend are absolutely inseparable. They do everything together! From the moment they wake up, they are side-by-side, eating breakfast, walking to school, and playing on the playground. They even sit together during reading time and dream up the most incredible adventures. Having a best friend who is always there for you makes every single day feel like a magical journey. Even when they have to do chores or go to the doctor's office, they find a way to make it fun because they have each other. But there is something very special and incredibly unique about this perfect friendship that makes it unlike any other. Dive into a delightful, playful story about the boundless power of imagination and the joy of finding the perfect playmate. This charming tale perfectly captures the magic of childhood friendships and the wonderful secrets that best friends share.
6-8 Years
N/A
/5
Miss Parks is thrilled about her new life. She has just moved to a wonderful home, started an exciting job as a teacher, and has the most amazing students. But the absolute center of her world is her sweet little kitten named Autumn. They do everything together until one night when a terrible storm rolls in, and Autumn suddenly runs away. Heartbroken, Miss Parks searches everywhere. Soon, her entire class bands together to help find the missing cat. Just when it seems like all hope is lost, Autumn magically appears at the front door! But she is wearing a brand-new collar and a tiny bandage. Someone very kind has been taking care of her. Follow the clues in this heartwarming mystery that celebrates the love of a pet, the kindness of a community, and the wonderful surprises life can bring when you least expect them.
6-8 Years
41 Pages
N/A
/5
The annual Halloween picnic at Mudsock Meadow is the most exciting event of the year, and William is determined to be the star. He desperately wants to impress his neighbor, Hester, but things are not going according to plan. William fails at the pumpkin-carving contest, struggles through the pie-eating challenge, and completely flops in the seed-spitting tournament. He only has one chance left to prove himself: the highly anticipated Dress-Up Competition. William has crafted an incredible costume, hoping it will finally catch Hester's eye. But as the sun goes down and the spooky shadows stretch across the meadow, strange things begin to happen. The terrifying legend of the local swamp monster might just be real! Jump into this hilarious, spooky adventure filled with glowing pumpkins, sticky treats, and unexpected bravery. Find out if William can face his fears and become the hero of Halloween night!
6-8 Years
36 Pages
N/A
/5
There is absolutely nothing more frustrating than a rotten, redheaded older brother who is better at everything than you are! Little Patricia knows this struggle all too well. Her brother Richard can run significantly faster, climb the tallest trees, and even burp louder than anyone else. Worst of all, he never misses a chance to flash his annoying grin whenever he beats her at a game. Patricia is tired of losing and desperate for a victory. So, when she sees a brilliant shooting star streak across the night sky, she closes her eyes and wishes to finally do just one thing better than him. But be careful what you wish for, because the universe has a funny way of answering! Dive into this lively, hilarious story about sibling rivalries, daring challenges, and the surprising moments that prove your annoying brother might actually be your biggest protector after all.
6-8 Years
32 Pages
N/A
/5
The harvest festival of Sukkoth is usually a time of great joy, gratitude, and celebration. A Jewish family in the beautiful hills of Oakland, California, is busy preparing for the holiday, building their traditional sukkah and looking forward to sharing meals under the stars. But a sudden and terrifying shift in the wind changes everything. A massive, devastating wildfire sweeps through their peaceful neighborhood, forcing the family and their neighbors to flee their homes with only the clothes on their backs. When the smoke finally clears and they are allowed to return, they are met with a heartbreaking landscape of ashes and ruin. Just when it seems like the disaster has taken everything they hold dear, a tiny, miraculous survivor emerges from the wreckage. Discover a deeply moving story of community, faith, and the incredible strength it takes to rebuild. This powerful tale reminds us that even in our darkest moments, there is always a glimmer of hope waiting to be found.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
52 Pages
N/A
/5
Holidays can be the hardest time of year when you are moving from one foster home to another. For Welcome Comfort, Christmas just brings a reminder of the family he wishes he had. But everything begins to change when he meets the school custodian, a kind man who understands exactly what it feels like to be lonely.
As their friendship grows, Welcome starts to believe that maybe, just maybe, the magic of the season is real. When Christmas Eve arrives, he is taken on a wondrous journey that proves some surprises are worth waiting for. This touching story explores how families are not always the people you are born to, but the people who open their hearts to you. You will discover that true belonging can be found in the most unexpected places.
6-8 Years
N/A
/5
