Author Profile
Laurie Halse Anderson
30 Books
Laurie Halse Anderson is an acclaimed American author known for her impactful children's books and young adult novels. She frequently tackles complex, realistic issues in her young adult fiction, with her most famous and award-winning works including 'Speak', 'Fever 1793', and 'Chains'. In addition to her YA novels, Anderson has penned popular middle-grade series like 'Vet Volunteers' and engaging picture books.
Vet Volunteers
Fear of Falling
Laurie Halse Anderson
Animals
Family
-
/5
Vet Volunteers
Manatee Blues
Laurie Halse Anderson
Action
Adventure
-
/5
Vet Volunteers
Acting Out
Laurie Halse Anderson
Action
Animals
-
/5
Vet Volunteers
Say Good-Bye
Laurie Halse Anderson
Animals
Empathy
-
/5
Vet Volunteers
Trickster
Laurie Halse Anderson
Animals
Courage
-
/5
Twisted
Laurie Halse Anderson
Family
Fiction
-
/5
Vet Volunteers
End of the Race
Laurie Halse Anderson
Animals
Courage
-
/5
Seeds of America
Ashes
Laurie Halse Anderson
Action
Adventure
-
/5
The Impossible Knife of Memory
Laurie Halse Anderson
Courage
Family
-
/5
Prom
Laurie Halse Anderson
Family
Friendship
-
/5
Catalyst
Laurie Halse Anderson
Family
STEM
-
/5
Seeds of America
Chains
Laurie Halse Anderson
Action
Courage
-
/5
Speak
Laurie Halse Anderson
Courage
Social Justice
-
/5
Vet Volunteers
Trapped
Laurie Halse Anderson
Adventure
Animals
-
/5
Vet Volunteers
Homeless
Laurie Halse Anderson
Animals
Empathy
-
/5
Independent Dames: What You Never Knew About the Women and Girls of the American Revolution
Laurie Halse Anderson
Biography
History
-
/5
Shout
Laurie Halse Anderson
Poetry
-
/5
Rebellion 1776
Laurie Halse Anderson
Action
Courage
-
/5
Wintergirls
Laurie Halse Anderson
Friendship
Health
-
/5
Fever 1793
Laurie Halse Anderson
Action
Family
-
/5
Seeds of America
Forge
Laurie Halse Anderson
Action
Courage
-
/5
Vet Volunteers
Fight for Life
Laurie Halse Anderson
Adventure
Animals
-
/5
Turkey Pox
Laurie Halse Anderson
Family
Fiction
-
/5
Vet Volunteers
Teacher's Pet
Laurie Halse Anderson
Animals
Empathy
-
/5
The Hair of Zoe Fleefenbacher Goes to School
Laurie Halse Anderson, Ard Hoyt
Fiction
Humor
-
/5
Speak: The Graphic Novel
Laurie Halse Anderson, Emily Carroll
Courage
Graphic Novels
-
/5
Wonder Woman
Tempest Tossed
Laurie Halse Anderson, Leila del Duca
Action
Adventure
-
/5
Ndito Runs
Laurie Halse Anderson, Anita Van der Merwe
Adventure
Animals
-
/5
Thank You, Sarah: The Woman Who Saved Thanksgiving
Laurie Halse Anderson, Matt Faulkner
Biography
History
-
/5
Guys Read
Heroes & Villains
Lemony Snicket, Pam Muñoz Ryan, Jon Scieszka, Sharon Creech, Laurie Halse Anderson, Cathy Camper, Jack Gantos, Ingrid Law, Deborah Hopkinson, Christopher Healy, Eugene Yelchin
Adventure
Anthologies
-
/5
Vet Volunteers
Fear of Falling
Twelve-year-old David loves nothing more than riding the horses at the local stables. When he is in the saddle, he feels completely free. His father was the one who first taught him how to ride and shared that deep bond with the majestic animals. But his father has been gone for an entire year, leaving David with a heavy heart and a confusing mix of emotions.
Now, as Thanksgiving Day approaches, David's father is returning home to spend the holiday with the family. Instead of just pure excitement, David finds himself wrestling with conflicting feelings. He misses his dad terribly, yet he is also angry and uncertain about what this visit really means for their future.
As the holiday draws near, David must figure out how to navigate his tangled emotions. Will he be able to find common ground with his father again, or has too much time passed? This poignant story explores the complex dynamics of family relationships, the struggle to forgive, and the healing power of the bonds we share with both animals and each other. Perfect for readers who appreciate realistic stories about growing up and facing difficult truths.
9-12 Years
112 Pages
N/A
/5
Vet Volunteers
Manatee Blues
Brenna, Maggie, and Zoe have just arrived in sunny Florida with Dr. Mac. They are visiting Gretchen, a passionate marine biologist who runs a manatee rescue center. The center is a safe haven for these endangered, gentle giants of the sea, but it is in desperate need of funding to stay afloat.
Brenna is instantly captivated by the slow-moving, peaceful manatees. She is determined to do whatever it takes to help the rescue center and save the animals she has come to love. However, her eagerness might just be creating more problems than it solves. As she tries to make a difference, Brenna has to learn that good intentions are not always enough.
Will Brenna's passionate efforts end up causing trouble, or can the girls work together to find a real solution to save the manatees? This engaging adventure explores the importance of wildlife conservation, the challenges of running a rescue, and the true meaning of teamwork when the stakes are incredibly high.
9-12 Years
145 Pages
N/A
/5
Vet Volunteers
Acting Out
After spending time living with her actress mother in the glamorous hills of Los Angeles, Zoe is finally back in the quiet town of Ambler. Returning to her roots should be easy, but she is struggling to process a messy whirlwind of emotions. While it is incredibly fun to reunite with her friends at the Vet Volunteers clinic, she can't help but deeply miss her mom, who is currently miles away filming a movie in Canada.
Distraction arrives when a disturbing mystery suddenly grips the town. A frightening rash of animal poisonings is spreading, with pets falling dangerously ill from antifreeze. When her friend David adopts a new cat named Rover, Zoe is terrified that the innocent feline might become the next victim.
Teaming up with the clinic crew, Zoe dives headfirst into a mission to raise community awareness and stop the poisonings before another animal gets hurt. Along the way, an unexpected surprise from her mom might just be the exact thing she needs. This engaging mystery blends animal rescue action with relatable family dynamics.
13-18 Years
146 Pages
N/A
/5
Vet Volunteers
Say Good-Bye
Zoe has a special place in her heart for Yum-Yum, an incredibly adorable Shih Tzu who is one of her absolute favorite clients at the veterinary clinic. Yum-Yum is much more than just a cute pet; he is a certified therapy dog. When Zoe accompanies him on visits to a hospital ward for cancer patients, she is profoundly moved. She watches in awe as the tiny, fluffy dog instantly brightens the darkest days, spreading pure joy and comfort to people fighting for their lives.
But the clinic is entirely shaken when the unthinkable happens: Yum-Yum himself is diagnosed with a severe form of cancer. Suddenly, the brave little dog who has helped so many others heal is the one desperately fighting for survival.
Devastated by the news, Zoe is determined to stand by his side. She must dig deep to find the emotional strength required to help her furry friend pull through his grueling treatments. This deeply moving, tear-jerking novel tackles the heavy realities of illness, exploring the profound healing power of the human-animal bond and the true meaning of selfless love.
13-18 Years
161 Pages
N/A
/5
Vet Volunteers
Trickster
From the very first moment David lays eyes on Trickster, the beautiful new quarter horse at Quinn's Stables, he feels an instant, powerful connection. Sleek, spirited, and full of energy, Trickster is exactly the kind of horse David has always dreamed of riding. But getting into the saddle won't be easy.
David is still haunted by a foolish mistake he made last year involving a reckless horseback ride to the local mall. Thanks to that stunt, he carries a heavy reputation around the stables as an untrustworthy troublemaker. Furthermore, Trickster is still carefully recuperating from a recent accident, making the stable owner, Mr. Quinn, extremely protective of the animal.
Determined to clear his name and prove he has changed, David knows he must work harder than ever before. He has to demonstrate pure dedication, patience, and true responsibility. Will he be able to earn back the trust of the adults around him and finally get the chance to ride the horse he loves? This exciting, heartfelt story perfectly captures the challenges of earning redemption and the deep bond between a rider and their horse.
9-12 Years
161 Pages
N/A
/5
Tyler Miller used to be completely invisible. You know the type: average grades, average face, totally blending into the background of high school life. But everything changes after a huge mistake gets him busted for vandalism. Spending the whole summer doing heavy outdoor labor as punishment has an unexpected side effect. Tyler returns for his senior year with a seriously built physique, and suddenly, everyone is noticing him.
Even Bethany Milbury, the ultimate queen bee, is suddenly paying attention. There is just one huge catch. She is the daughter of his dad's intimidating boss, the sister of Tyler's absolute worst enemy, and his ultimate secret crush. As Tyler navigates this bizarre new popularity, his entire world gets turned upside down.
You will find yourself rooting for Tyler as he tries to figure out exactly where he belongs. With a hilarious and brutally honest voice, this story tackles the tough questions about what it really means to be a man, how to handle impossible family expectations, and what to do when getting everything you thought you wanted brings a whole new set of problems.
13-18 Years
274 Pages
N/A
/5
Vet Volunteers
End of the Race
When a badly injured greyhound arrives at the local veterinary clinic, Maggie is thrust into the high-stakes, controversial world of competitive dog racing. Seeing the condition of this gentle animal sparks a fire in her to uncover exactly what is happening behind the scenes at the local track.
You will follow Maggie as she teams up with Dr. Mac and the newest clinic volunteer, Taryn, to investigate the harsh realities these racing dogs face every day. Stepping into the fast-paced environment of the track is incredibly risky, and the team faces intense pressure as they start asking difficult questions.
This emotional journey tests their courage and dedication to the animals they have promised to protect. As Maggie races against the clock to ensure the safety of the vulnerable greyhounds, you will be on the edge of your seat. Discover a powerful story about standing up for those who cannot speak for themselves, the importance of empathy, and the incredible lengths volunteers will go to save a life.
13-18 Years
160 Pages
N/A
/5
Seeds of America
Ashes
The American Revolution is raging all around, but for Isabel and Curzon, the fight is deeply personal. After narrowly escaping the freezing misery of Valley Forge, their dream of living as free people feels impossibly far away. They are hunted as runaways, with relentless bounty hunters tracking their every move through a war-torn landscape.
You will join these two brave friends as they march straight into the heart of danger. Their mission is clear but incredibly perilous: they must find Isabel's little sister, Ruth, who was stolen away and enslaved in the South. Every step forward is paved with heroism and heartbreak, forcing you to wonder how you can fight for a nation's freedom when that same nation keeps you in chains.
This gripping historical adventure puts you right on the front lines of America's fight for independence. With chaos and fear at every turn, Isabel and Curzon must rely on their unbreakable bond and fierce determination to survive. Discover an unforgettable conclusion to an epic journey, where the ultimate battle is the one for family, identity, and true freedom.
9-12 Years
13-18 Years
320 Pages
N/A
/5
For five years, Hayley Kincaid and her father, Andy, have been constantly moving, trying to outrun the pain that has followed him home from war. Now, they've returned to Andy's childhood town, hoping for a fresh start. Hayley desperately wants a normal life: to settle down, attend school, and maybe even explore a connection with Finn, a boy who seems to understand her, despite his own secrets.
But settling down brings its own challenges. Andy's post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) casts a long shadow, and his struggles with painful memories and past traumas threaten to pull them both under. Hayley must navigate her own buried memories and the complexities of her father's worsening condition, all while trying to build a future for herself. Can she find a way to heal and forge a new path, or will the weight of their past prove too heavy? This powerful and unflinching novel explores the lasting impacts of war and the unbreakable bonds of family.
13-18 Years
432 Pages
N/A
/5
Ashley Hannigan is one of the few students at her high school who doesn't really care about prom. But for her best friend, Natalia, prom is the most important night of the year! When a huge problem suddenly arises—the money saved for the big dance mysteriously disappears—Ashley finds herself unexpectedly helping to organize the entire event. It's a big job, but she's not alone. Ashley gets lots of help from her loving family, Natalia's unique grandmother, the school principal, and many of her classmates. Together, they race against time to pull off a fantastic gala dance. As Ashley works to make the prom a success, she starts to learn surprising new things about herself, friendship, and how to make her own dreams come true. This heartwarming story is about finding your voice, the power of community, and realizing what truly matters.
13-18 Years
240 Pages
N/A
/5
Kate Malone manages her life exactly like the periodic table: perfectly organized, highly logical, and completely under her control. As a straight-A science and math student, a minister's daughter, a fierce long-distance runner, and the girlfriend of a Harvard-bound senior, Kate thinks she has everything perfectly balanced. She is counting down the days until she receives her acceptance letter from MIT, the only college she applied to.
But suddenly, the stable elements of Kate's life erupt in a string of unpredictable chemical reactions. When a tragic fire destroys her neighbors' home, her family takes them in. Now, Kate is forced to share her carefully structured bedroom with her lifelong nemesis, Teri Litch, and Teri's little brother.
With her personal space invaded, her emotions bubbling to the surface, and that crucial MIT letter still missing from the mail, Kate feels her carefully constructed world spinning wildly out of control. When an unexpected event blows everything apart, Kate must reexamine every formula she thought she knew about life, love, and her own identity. This powerful novel explores the chaotic, messy, and beautiful reality of growing up.
13-18 Years
244 Pages
N/A
/5
Seeds of America
Chains
If an entire nation is fighting for its freedom, why not a thirteen-year-old girl? As the thunder of the American Revolutionary War begins to echo across the colonies, young Isabel is waging a deeply personal battle for her own liberation. Isabel and her younger sister, Ruth, were promised their freedom upon the death of their former owner. Instead, in a cruel twist of fate, they are sold to the Locktons, a wealthy, malicious New York City couple fiercely loyal to the British crown.
Trapped in a household without sympathy, Isabel meets Curzon, an enslaved boy with strong ties to the American Patriots. Curzon urges Isabel to use her position to spy on her Loyalist owners, who are secretly harboring details of British invasion plans. At first, she is terrified to take such a massive risk. But when an unthinkable tragedy strikes her beloved sister, Isabel realizes she has nothing left to lose. She must carefully decide where her loyalties truly lie and who can actually help her secure the ultimate prize: her freedom. This gripping story highlights incredible courage in the face of impossible odds.
9-12 Years
13-18 Years
323 Pages
N/A
/5
Freshman year at Merryweather High is turning into a complete nightmare for Melinda Sordino. Over the summer, she called the police to break up a party, and now she is the school's biggest outcast. Her former friends won't look at her, and even total strangers despise her. Isolated and overwhelmed by the daily hypocrisies of high school, Melinda stops trying to fit in. Eventually, she simply stops talking altogether.
Retreating into her own head, she finds her only solace within the quiet walls of her art class. Through her creative projects, Melinda slowly begins to process the dark, heavy secret that she has been hiding, the real reason she dialed 911 on that terrible summer night. She knows she cannot stay silent forever, especially when the person responsible for her trauma remains a dangerous presence in her school hallways.
With raw honesty and bitter irony, this groundbreaking novel explores a young woman's struggle to reclaim her voice. It is a powerful story about confronting your deepest fears, refusing to be silenced, and finding the incredible courage necessary to speak your truth to the world.
13-18 Years
197 Pages
N/A
/5
Vet Volunteers
Trapped
Brenna loves spending her free time volunteering at Dr. Mac's Place, the local animal clinic where she helps care for pets in need. But her passion for animals is put to the test when she makes a horrifying discovery in the nature preserve behind her house: someone is secretly setting illegal animal traps.
When a dog gets caught and injured, Brenna and her older brother, Sage, are absolutely furious. The preserve is supposed to be a safe haven for defenseless wildlife, not a dangerous minefield. They both know they have to do something to stop the poacher before another animal gets hurt. However, Sage's anger is pushing him toward some very extreme, risky plans to catch the culprit.
As tensions rise, Brenna realizes she has to step up. Can she rein in her brother's reckless ideas while still finding a way to protect the innocent creatures of the woods? This gripping adventure explores the delicate balance of justice, the importance of wildlife conservation, and the bravery it takes to do the right thing when emotions are running incredibly high.
9-12 Years
129 Pages
N/A
/5
Vet Volunteers
Homeless
Sunita has always found comfort and purpose in her work at the Wild at Heart veterinary clinic. Surrounded by her fellow volunteers and guided by the wise Dr. Mac, she knows how to handle routine checkups and minor emergencies. But her dedication is pushed to the limit when a massive crisis hits their community.
A large colony of feral and abandoned cats is suddenly discovered, desperately needing medical attention, shelter, and a second chance at life. The sheer number of homeless animals is overwhelming, and the clinic's resources are stretched incredibly thin. Sunita and her friends must rally together, utilizing every ounce of their training and compassion to organize a massive rescue effort.
As they work around the clock to trap, treat, and find homes for the frightened felines, Sunita realizes that saving these animals requires more than just medical skills, it takes immense teamwork and emotional resilience. This heartwarming and fast-paced story dives deep into the realities of animal rescue, demonstrating the profound impact a group of dedicated individuals can have on the vulnerable lives that depend on them.
13-18 Years
144 Pages
N/A
/5
What You Never Knew About the Women and Girls of the American Revolution
You have probably heard plenty of stories about the famous men who led the charge during the American Revolution. But did you know that those founding fathers only tell half of the story? It is time to listen up and meet the incredible women and girls who played a massive role in creating our nation!
From secret spies and fearless messengers to brilliant fundraisers and brave leaders, these tough, independent dames stepped up when their country needed them most. They managed farms, defended their homes, and even disguised themselves to join the action. Without their clever minds and immense courage, the history books would look very different today.
Packed with fascinating facts and engaging true stories, this lively journey through the past proves that heroism isn't just for the guys. Discover the forgotten heroines who helped build America and see exactly how these remarkable women changed the world. This fun and informative read is the perfect way to explore a whole new side of American history!
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
44 Pages
N/A
/5
Two decades after her groundbreaking novel Speak sparked vital conversations around the world, acclaimed author Laurie Halse Anderson delivers a powerful, poetic memoir that is impossible to ignore. Inspired by the millions of readers who shared their own stories, and fueled by the slow pace of societal change, she offers a rallying cry for a new generation.
Written entirely in stunning free verse, this memoir weaves together deeply personal reflections, unfiltered rants, and fierce calls to action. Anderson opens up about the intimate, painful chapters of her own life that she has never shared before, blending her personal history with a sharp denouncement of our culture's ongoing failures to protect the vulnerable.
Vulnerable, captivating, and fiercely unapologetic, this book is a love letter to anyone who has ever found the courage to say their truth, whether aloud to a crowd, quietly online, or strictly within the safe confines of their own heart. It is an essential read that speaks truth to power in a loud, clear voice, urging you to stand up, reclaim your strength, and finally shout your own truth.
13-18 Years
306 Pages
N/A
/5
In the spring of 1776, thirteen-year-old Elspeth Culpepper wakes to the terrifying sound of cannons. The Siege of Boston has begun, turning her once-quiet city into a chaotic and dangerous war zone. With her father, her only living relative, suddenly missing, Elspeth is left completely alone. Desperate to avoid the orphanage, she wanders the broken streets searching for work and a way to survive. But the war is not the only threat looming over the city. A deadly smallpox epidemic is sweeping across Boston, forcing citizens to fight an invisible enemy alongside the visible one. As panic rises and a crude, controversial vaccine divides the town, Elspeth uses her own immunity to find work caring for Abigail Adams and her family. Amidst the raging revolution and the terrifying outbreak, Elspeth must navigate a world turned upside down. Will she be able to survive the siege and finally reunite with her father?
9-12 Years
13-18 Years
416 Pages
N/A
/5
Lia and Cassie have been best friends for years, bound together by a toxic and secret competition. They are wintergirls, frozen in fragile bodies and locked in a deadly, silent contest to see who can become the thinnest. They thought they were in control, but their dangerous game suddenly ends in absolute tragedy when Cassie suffers the ultimate loss, her life.
Left entirely alone, Lia is haunted by the agonizing memory of her best friend. She is racked with overwhelming guilt for not answering Cassie's final phone calls and for failing to save her. As the haunting specter of Cassie lingers around her, pulling her deeper into her own severe eating disorder, Lia finds herself walking a razor-thin line between life and death.
Navigating a painful and treacherous path to recovery, Lia must battle the powerful demons inside her own mind. This fearless, riveting novel offers a profound look into the terrifying grip of illness. It is a heartbreaking yet essential exploration of grief, the devastating impact of mental illness, and the desperate, beautiful struggle to finally choose hope and survival.
13-18 Years
288 Pages
N/A
/5
It is the late summer of 1793, and the sweltering streets of Philadelphia are buzzing with irritating mosquitoes and terrifying rumors of a deadly fever. Down near the city docks, people are falling ill at an alarming rate. Fourteen-year-old Mattie Cook, however, is too busy to worry. She spends her days dodging chores and dreaming up big plans to transform her family's modest coffeehouse into the finest, most successful business the city has ever seen.
But when the mysterious fever claims the life of Mattie's childhood playmate, the crisis can no longer be ignored. Disease quickly sweeps through the crowded streets, destroying everything in its path and turning Mattie's once-safe world entirely upside down. As panic sets in and her own mother becomes feverish, Mattie is forced to flee the city with her grandfather.
She soon discovers that running away isn't enough; the sickness is everywhere. Trapped in a frantic, desperate landscape, Mattie must quickly learn how to survive on her own. This gripping historical thriller plunges you into a fight for survival where every decision could be a matter of life or death.
13-18 Years
272 Pages
N/A
/5
Seeds of America
Forge
The blistering winds and bitter cold of the Pennsylvania winter are tearing through the Patriot Army camp. This is Valley Forge, an unforgiving landscape where desperate circumstances forge boys into soldiers. For young Curzon, the stakes are unimaginably high. After escaping the chains of slavery, he is now passing as a free man within the ranks of the revolutionary forces.
Every single day is a grueling test of survival. In addition to the freezing temperatures, starvation, and the brutal hardships of military life, Curzon carries the constant, terrifying fear of being discovered. One wrong move could send him right back into bondage. Then, the unexpected happens: Isabel, the fierce girl he once helped escape, arrives at Valley Forge against her will.
Reunited in the freezing snow, Curzon and Isabel must carefully sort out the tangled, complicated threads of their past friendship. Surrounded by war and suffering, they have to figure out what stands between them and their ultimate goal. This keenly felt historical adventure explores the true cost of liberty, the heavy burden of secrets, and the powerful bonds of loyalty.
13-18 Years
304 Pages
N/A
/5
Vet Volunteers
Fight for Life
Meet Maggie! Her grandmother runs a busy animal clinic called Dr. Mac's Place, and Maggie loves spending time there, helping out and meeting all kinds of animals. She knows a lot about how to care for pets, especially when they need a little extra love.
But lately, something is very wrong. So many sick and sad puppies are arriving at the clinic, and they all need help. Maggie soon learns that these poor pups are coming from somewhere terrible: an illegal puppy mill! These places are not safe or kind for animals.
Maggie knows she can't just stand by. She feels a strong need to find out who is hurting these innocent dogs and where this secret puppy mill is hidden. Join Maggie as she uses her courage and kindness to solve the mystery and try to save all the animals who are trapped and waiting for a hero like her!
13-18 Years
161 Pages
N/A
/5
Charity has been looking forward to Thanksgiving all year long. She can imagine the delicious smell of Nana's roast turkey and sweet cranberry sauce. But just as the holiday arrives, a terrible snowstorm begins howling outside, burying the streets in deep snow. Even worse, Charity has come down with a very itchy case of the chicken pox!
It looks like her family will be stuck at home, missing out on the big dinner at Nana's house. Charity is incredibly disappointed. But just when she thinks the holiday is ruined, a wonderful surprise comes rumbling down the road. Nana is determined to save the day, and she is bringing the feast with her!
This heartwarming story shows that even when plans go wrong, the magic of the holidays can still find you. It is a delightful tale about family, love, and making the best of a spotty situation.
6-8 Years
32 Pages
N/A
/5
Vet Volunteers
Teacher's Pet
Twelve-year-old Maggie is still trying to get the hang of life in middle school. Between navigating new classes and shifting friendships, there is a lot to adjust to. But she isn't the only one feeling a bit overwhelmed. Her brand-new science teacher, Mr. Carlson, is blind and is learning how to work with his very first guide dog, a lovable German shepherd named Scout.
Scout is a sweet, eager dog who desperately wants to do his job right, but Maggie can easily see that Mr. Carlson is still struggling to trust his new canine partner. As an animal lover who volunteers at a local veterinary clinic, Maggie knows a thing or two about dogs. She realizes that maybe, just maybe, she can step in and help.
As Maggie offers her quiet support, she discovers that teaching goes both ways. This touching, realistic story highlights the incredible intelligence of working dogs, the importance of patience, and how an unexpected bond can teach you more about empathy and trust than you ever could have learned from a textbook.
9-12 Years
145 Pages
N/A
/5
Zoe Fleefenbacher has one blue eye, one green eye, and bright red hair that goes on and on forever. Her wild, cascading curls have always had a mind of their own, tumbling and twisting in every direction. Now Zoe is starting first grade, and her new teacher, Ms. Trisk, has a very strict rule: first grade has rules, and that includes unruly hair!
It takes countless barrettes, clips, and scrunchies to finally tame Zoe's majestic mane. But when a classroom science lesson suddenly goes wrong and becomes uncooperative, Zoe's hair might just be the only thing that can save the day. Will Ms. Trisk finally learn to let Zoe's hair flow free? This hilarious and vibrant story celebrates individuality, creativity, and the joy of being exactly who you are, wild hair and all!
6-8 Years
30 Pages
N/A
/5
High school is supposed to be about finding your voice, but for freshman Melinda, it is a nightmare of absolute silence. After she busted an end-of-summer party by calling the police, she became the ultimate outcast. Now, nobody at Merryweather High will even look her in the eye, let alone listen to her side of the story.
You will feel the weight of Melinda's isolation as she completely stops speaking, carrying a devastating secret that she cannot bring herself to share. The only place she feels safe is in her art class. Through her desperate and emotional art projects, you will watch her slowly begin to process the trauma of what really happened to her that terrifying night.
This stunning graphic novel adaptation brings a groundbreaking story of survival to vivid life. When the person who hurt her remains a constant threat in the school hallways, Melinda realizes she can no longer hide in the shadows. Experience a deeply moving and visually striking journey about confronting your deepest fears, healing from trauma, and finally finding the courage to fight back and speak the truth.
13-18 Years
371 Pages
N/A
/5
Wonder Woman
Tempest Tossed
Princess Diana of Themyscira is ready for her sixteenth birthday. She believes this is the moment she will finally be accepted into the elite warrior tribe of the Amazons. But her entire life changes in an instant when rafts full of desperate refugees crash through the magical barrier protecting her isolated island home.
When you defy your own people to do what is right, the consequences can be massive. Diana throws herself into the stormy sea to save the outsiders, only to be swept away from everything she has ever known. Washing up on foreign shores, she suddenly finds herself living as a refugee in a strange, dangerous, and unjust new world.
You will join Diana on an epic journey of survival as she navigates unfamiliar streets, makes powerful new friends, and discovers her true calling. This is not just a superhero origin story, but a powerful look at teenage activism, standing up for the vulnerable, and finding the courage to create real change. Discover how a lost princess begins to redefine what it means to be a hero.
13-18 Years
208 Pages
N/A
/5
Every single morning, young Ndito sets off on an exciting journey. She doesn't just walk to school; she runs! Dashing across the beautiful Kenyan countryside, she feels the warm wind on her face and the soft earth beneath her feet. As she races past giant baobab trees and brushes through the tall grass, Ndito is never alone. Her vibrant imagination comes to life with every step. She pretends she is leaping like a graceful gazelle, soaring like a bird, and running as fast as a cheetah across the plains. The wild animals of Africa become her playful companions on her daily trek. This beautiful story captures the pure magic of childhood imagination. It invites young readers to join Ndito on a joyous romp through nature, celebrating the thrill of running free and the wonders of daydreaming.
6-8 Years
32 Pages
N/A
/5
You might think you know the entire story behind Thanksgiving, tracing it back to a jubilant historical feast on the shores of Plymouth. But by the middle of the nineteenth century, America's observance of the holiday was rapidly fading into memory. Neither Congress nor the presidents seemed interested in reviving the tradition. It looked as though Thanksgiving might be lost to history forever.
Enter Sarah Josepha Hale, an invincible and brilliant lady editor who simply refused to take no for an answer. Armed with nothing more than her pen and an iron will, she took it upon herself to rewrite the recipe for the national holiday we celebrate today. Over the course of thirty-five years, she petitioned leaders, wrote passionate orations, and relentlessly campaigned through the chaos of the Civil War and the administrations of five different presidents.
In 1863, her steadfast dedication finally caught the attention of Abraham Lincoln, who signed the official Thanksgiving Proclamation. This boisterous, inspiring story is a powerful tribute to perseverance, advocacy, and the incredible impact that one determined citizen can have on the cultural fabric of a nation.
13-18 Years
40 Pages
N/A
/5
Guys Read
Heroes & Villains
What makes a hero? What makes a villain? Dive into a thrilling collection of ten original stories where the lines between good and evil are wonderfully blurred. Curated by Jon Scieszka for his Guys Read Library of Great Reading, this volume is packed with adventure, mystery, and humor, perfect for readers aged 9 to 12. You'll encounter characters with and without capes, facing challenges in everything from fantastical realms and action-packed comic book worlds to contemporary adventures and even real-life historical moments. With tales spanning fantasy, graphic storytelling, and nonfiction, there's a story for every kind of reader. Featuring brand-new contributions from beloved authors like Laurie Halse Anderson, Sharon Creech, Jack Gantos, Lemony Snicket, and more, this anthology invites you to explore different perspectives and decide for yourself: who truly stands for good, and who for evil? Get ready for a fast-paced journey through unforgettable narratives that will keep you turning pages.
9-12 Years
288 Pages
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