Patricia Polacco

A scrawny kitten without a tail is about to bring two very different neighbors together. Larnel Moore knows that Mrs. Katz is lonely since her husband passed away, so he asks her to help him care for an abandoned cat named Tush. Mrs. Katz agrees, but only if Larnel promises to visit her and the kitten every single day. Through daily visits and shared meals, Larnel steps into Mrs. Katz's world and learns all about her Jewish heritage. During a special Passover dinner, they realize that despite their different backgrounds, their cultures share deep stories of struggle and triumph. This beautiful tale celebrates an unlikely bond between a young African American boy and an elderly Jewish widow. You will see how caring for a small animal can grow into a lifelong friendship that bridges any gap.

The town of Triple Creek has a massive problem, and it glows in the dark. Everyone is so obsessed with their televisions that they have completely forgotten how to read. The only person who remembers what books are for is Aunt Chip, who has stayed in bed for fifty years just to protest the town's terrible TV habit. When Aunt Chip finally decides enough is enough, she teaches young Eli how to read. Soon, the magic of storytelling spreads to all the other children, and they realize they need more books. But retrieving the town's lost stories means going to the old dam, leading to a hilarious and completely unexpected surprise. This rollicking adventure shows you exactly why stories matter. You will be cheering for Eli and Aunt Chip as they fight to bring the power of reading back to their town.

Winter has brought more than just snow to a small farming community in Michigan. A sudden scarlet fever epidemic sweeps through the town, leaving many families too sick to prepare for the holidays. While a young Jewish girl and her family celebrate the miracle of Hanukkah, they cannot help but worry about their Christian neighbors who will have no Christmas trees or festive meals this year. Determined to bring light into a dark time, the family quietly creates their own kind of holiday miracle. They craft special wooden toys, including little dancing goats, and deliver festive surprises to every sick household in the valley. Based on a true childhood memory, this touching story shows how compassion can bridge religious and cultural differences. You will discover the true meaning of the holiday season through an unforgettable act of community support and selfless giving.

Sometimes the way you see the world does not perfectly fit onto a standard test. Trisha loves to draw and sketch, and after spending the summer with her artist grandmother, she knows exactly what she wants to be. Her incredible talent earns her a spot in Miss Chew's special high school art class, a place where her creativity can truly flourish. But when a strict substitute teacher arrives, Trisha is told that her art is a waste of time and that she needs to focus entirely on her regular studies. Luckily, Miss Chew knows that there is more than one way to learn and is ready to stand up for her student. This inspiring true story celebrates the educators who see our unique strengths. You will be encouraged to embrace your own learning differences and follow your creative passions no matter what others say.

The front yard is buzzing with aunts, uncles, and dozens of cousins. It is time for the annual family reunion! The grass is perfect for running, the food is piled high, and the air is full of laughter. But the real magic begins when the sun goes down. Gramma has a special surprise planned for everyone this year. She is going to teach you and all the cousins a wonderful secret: how to catch actual lightning in a jar. As the evening sky darkens, the yard comes alive with glowing sparks, creating a memory that will last forever. Experience the warmth of a big, joyful family coming together to share stories, delicious food, and a truly unforgettable summer night. This beautiful story celebrates the deep bonds of family and the simple wonders waiting right in your own backyard.

Sundays are always the best day of the week, especially because of Miss Eula's wonderful chicken dinners. Her singing voice is like sweet rain, and she is always so good to the neighborhood children. More than anything, the children want to buy her a beautiful Easter bonnet they admire in Mr. Kodinski's shop window. But the hat is expensive, and they do not have the money. Things take a terrible turn when the children are mistakenly blamed for throwing eggs at Mr. Kodinski's store. Now, they must figure out a way to prove their innocence to the shopkeeper and somehow earn the money for the hat. Through a brilliant idea involving beautifully decorated Russian eggs, the children discover a path to clear their names. Step into a vibrant, touching story that proves how understanding, art, and kindness can bring a whole community together.