Major General George S. Eckhardt

Lafayette could have stayed rich, comfortable, and far away from danger. Instead, he crossed an ocean to join a revolution. This Hazardous Tale introduces Gilbert du Motier, the young Marquis de Lafayette, who becomes a major general while still a teenager and throws himself into America's fight for independence. Alongside figures such as George Washington and Alexander Hamilton, Lafayette learns what courage, loyalty, and leadership look like in the middle of war. Nathan Hale brings Revolutionary War history to life in a graphic-novel format full of motion, humor, and sharp explanations. Lafayette! is ideal for readers who want history with personality: battles, big choices, political drama, and a young nobleman determined to prove that he is more than a fancy title.

Two ambitious men, one secret plan, and a fort that could change the war. Revolutionary Rogues tells the dramatic true story of Major General Benedict Arnold and British intelligence officer John André. Injured, frustrated, and hungry for recognition, Arnold looks for a dangerous new path to reward. André, eager to prove himself, becomes his partner in a plot involving West Point, one of the most important American forts of the Revolution. Written with the tension of a stage play, this nonfiction picture book brings readers into the choices, risks, and betrayals behind one of the American Revolution’s most infamous episodes. Selene Castrovilla’s storytelling and John O’Brien’s illustrations highlight both the similarities and differences between the two men. Back matter, timelines, and historical resources make it especially useful for readers who want the story behind the legend.

Four score and seven years ago..." These famous words from Abraham Lincoln honor a three-day battle that forever changed the United States. In the summer of 1863, the country was torn apart by the Civil War, and the Southern army had been winning major victories. But when Confederate General Robert E. Lee invaded the North, everything came down to a fierce clash in a small Pennsylvania town called Gettysburg. How did the Union troops manage to hold their ground and turn the tide of the entire war? Step directly onto the battlefield and uncover the strategy, bravery, and tragedy of those three historic days. You will learn about the commanders who made split-second decisions and the ordinary soldiers who fought for their deeply held beliefs. Packed with fascinating facts, historical photographs, and detailed illustrations, this book brings a critical turning point in American history to vivid life. It is an exciting and accessible way to understand one of the most famous battles ever fought and the powerful speech that followed.

Major the rescue dog is about to go on the biggest journey of his life. From his early days at an animal shelter to exploring the giant halls of the White House, Major has a very special story to share. Told straight from the pup's point of view, this exciting adventure follows Major as he meets his new best friend, President Joe Biden, and discovers what it means to find a forever home. Moving to a new place can be confusing, especially when that place is filled with important people, shiny floors, and huge gardens. But Major quickly learns that rescuing works both ways, and bringing joy to your family is the most important job of all. This heartwarming and funny tale gives you a unique look at presidential history through the eyes of a very good boy, proving that love and kindness belong in the highest office of the land.

Lunchtime is supposed to be the best part of the school day, but in the spooky town of Kersville, even the cafeteria can turn into a total nightmare. Best friends Desmond Cole and Andres Miedoso are usually ready for anything, but nothing could prepare them for a squad of creepy monster lunch ladies. When the school lunch starts looking a little too slimy and strange, Desmond knows there is a brand new mystery to solve. Andres might be a little terrified, but with Desmond leading the charge, they are going to figure out what these monstrous lunch ladies are really cooking up. Can the brave ghost hunters save the school cafeteria before everything turns into a giant, gooey disaster? Packed with awesome pictures and hilarious spooky moments, this exciting chapter book will have you laughing out loud and double checking your own lunchbox.

Travel back in time to one of the most unusual and fascinating experiments in early American history, where the dusty roads of Texas are suddenly filled with massive, humped camels. You will follow the true-to-life journey of a determined Major who brings a herd of real desert camels all the way across the ocean to serve in the United States military. As you read, you will see exactly how difficult it is to train these stubborn, strange-looking animals to work alongside normal army horses and mules. The story takes you straight into the harsh, blazing heat of the American Southwest, showing you the daily trials of this incredibly unique animal caravan. It is a remarkable, exciting piece of history that proves truth is often much stranger, and much more entertaining, than fiction.

A single slice of cake can change your destiny forever. In a quiet village famous for its incredible festivals, a magical event happens only once every twenty four years. During a spectacular feast, a mysterious star is baked deep inside a massive cake, waiting to be swallowed by an unsuspecting child. When a young blacksmith's son accidentally eats the hidden star, he is granted a rare and wonderful gift. Marked by the star on his forehead, the boy gains secret entry into a dangerous and breathtaking magical realm. As he grows up, he wanders through enchanted lands, protected from dark magic while discovering hidden beauties and befriending mystical creatures. Meanwhile, a greedy and lazy cook back home refuses to believe in magic at all, leading to a surprising and funny confrontation. This charming, pocket sized adventure reminds you that true wonder is always hiding just out of sight.

Get ready for a very special trip to the White House with two adorable canine companions! Champ and his adopted brother, Major, are moving into a brand new home because their dad just got an important job as the President of the United States. Champ has visited this big, beautiful house before and knows all about the work that happens inside. Now, he gets to show Major the ropes. Major is extra special because he is one of the very first rescue dogs to ever live in the White House. From exploring the big green lawns to finding the best places for naps, these two furry friends are bringing a whole lot of fun to their new home. Join Champ and Major on their exciting adventure. This heartwarming story celebrates the special bond between rescue dogs and their families.

Before he pitched the Red Sox to a thrilling World Series championship, and long before he won the prestigious Cy Young Award three times, Pedro Martinez was just a young kid throwing rocks at mangoes in the Dominican Republic. Pedro loves the game of baseball more than anything else in the world, and he idolizes his older brother Ramon, who is the greatest pitcher he has ever seen. Pedro dreams of the distant day when he and his talented brother might actually play together in the major leagues. You will follow his incredible journey from the dusty fields of his hometown to the bright lights of professional baseball stadiums. This beautifully illustrated true story captures the intense dedication required to become a legendary athlete, and highlights the powerful, unbreakable bond between two brothers who pushed each other to achieve the ultimate baseball dream.

Making a movie is a massive puzzle, and you are about to see how all the pieces fit together. Join author Brian Selznick on an exclusive journey behind the camera as his award-winning story transforms into a spectacular motion picture directed by Martin Scorsese. You will explore a treasure trove of full-color photographs straight from the set, alongside fascinating interviews with the actors and the brilliant crew who brought the streets of Paris to life. Discover the incredible history of early filmmaking, learn the secrets behind the mysterious mechanical automatons, and compare original book sketches with the final movie props and costumes. Packed with behind-the-scenes trivia and a special essay on the birth of cinema, this immersive guide is your ultimate ticket to understanding the magic of the silver screen.

Surviving a battle with ancient mythological monsters should have bought Kate Kane some time to breathe. Instead, her life is about to become exponentially more dangerous. A shadowy government organization known as the Department of Extranormal Operations has tightened its grip on Batwoman, forcing her into an impossible and high stakes mission. Their target is none other than the Dark Knight himself. Caught between her forced obligations to the government and her complicated relationship with the bat family, Kate must decide where her true loyalties lie. Tracking down Batman is a near suicidal task, but refusing the order could cost Kate everything she holds dear. As the tension escalates, she is forced to question who the real enemy is in a city built on secrets and deception. It is a brutal game of chess between Gotham's greatest tactical minds, and Batwoman is trapped right in the middle of the board.

A major classroom milestone is rapidly approaching, and the pressure to find the perfect project is intense. The one hundredth day of school is just around the corner, and Nancy is completely stumped. She urgently needs to bring in a collection of exactly one hundred items to celebrate, but she cannot think of anything exciting, imaginative, or special enough to share with her class. You will feel Nancy's frustration as her deadline creeps closer and she begins to lose hope of finding a truly magnificent idea. But when an unexpected and sad event occurs, it sparks a brilliant moment of inspiration. Discover how Nancy beautifully transforms a gloomy situation into a remarkable and meaningful school project. This touching story wonderfully demonstrates that true creativity often comes from the heart. Celebrate the joy of learning and the power of finding unexpected beauty in the world around you.

Turning ten is a major milestone, and Molly McIntire cannot wait to celebrate. An English girl named Emily has come to stay with Molly's family to escape the dangers of World War II in London. Molly is thrilled to have a new friend living right in her house, and the two girls decide to plan a joint birthday party. It sounds like the perfect plan until their different personalities begin to clash. You know how hard it can be when you and a friend cannot agree on anything. As the party gets closer, their disagreements grow, and their new friendship threatens to fall apart completely. Step into 1944 and find out if Molly and Emily can learn to bridge their differences, compromise, and pull together to create a birthday celebration they will never forget.

Riley Morris has one major goal: direct the spring musical and secure her ticket to Broadway. When her plans hit a major roadblock, she finds herself serving the ultimate punishment by working at her dad's tabletop gaming store. Desperate to get her directorial dreams back on track, she needs a distraction. Enter Nathan Wheeler, her quiet, glasses-wearing coworker. Riley strikes a deal with him: she will play the role of his fake girlfriend to make his gamer-girl crush jealous, and in return, he will cover her shifts. It seems like a foolproof strategy to free up her time and maybe show off to her own ex in the process. However, keeping up the charade means you must roll the dice and join Nathan's Dungeons & Dragons campaign. To her total shock, navigating fantasy worlds is incredibly entertaining. As you dive deeper into the game, the line between acting and real feelings begins to blur, proving that romance might just be the best quest of all.

Learning a major new skill takes a lot of time, practice, and encouragement. Little Critter's younger sister has received a brand-new potty, and it is time for her to figure out exactly how it works. Leaving diapers behind is a big step, and she is not entirely sure she is ready for the change. Fortunately, Little Critter is determined to be the most supportive big brother possible. He steps up to help her understand the process, showing incredible patience as she tries, fails, and tries again. He knows that with enough practice and positive cheering, she will eventually get the hang of it. This encouraging and honest story tackles an important developmental milestone with gentle humor. You will appreciate the warm sibling dynamic as they tackle this tricky transition together. It is a practical and supportive read that perfectly normalizes the inevitable accidents and celebrates the final success.

Turning thirteen is a major milestone, but Liza's big day is quickly turning into a recipe for disaster. Her well-meaning but overbearing Nana Silver has decided to take total control of the birthday plans. Instead of the fun, relaxed hangout Liza actually wants, she is being forced into a fancy, high-society event that feels completely wrong. Liza needs a serious intervention before her teenager debut is totally ruined. Enter the Saturday cooking club. Liza's closest friends know exactly how to turn up the heat when things get tough in the kitchen, and now they are bringing those problem-solving skills into the real world. They are determined to whip up a brilliant plan to help Liza take back her party. Will their combined creativity and culinary skills be enough to add the perfect finishing touch to Liza's birthday, or will the whole event fall flat? Grab your apron and join the club for a hilarious, heartfelt adventure about staying true to yourself and relying on the people who know you best.

Turning seven is a major milestone for Muhammad because it means he is finally old enough to receive his very own salat rug. He is incredibly proud and determined to complete all five of his daily Muslim prayers right on time. But his excitement quickly turns to anxiety when he realizes one of his prayers falls right in the middle of the school day. Remembering how strangers sometimes stare at his father when he prays in public, Muhammad decides he must keep his salat a secret from his classmates. He searches frantically for a hidden spot to worship, worried about what others might think. This poignant and beautifully illustrated story explores the quiet courage it takes to practice your faith openly. It is an empowering narrative about community, acceptance, and finding a safe space to be yourself.

Before the major leagues finally broke the color barrier, Black athletes showcased their incredible talents in the Negro Leagues. These historic teams were coached by Black managers, supported by devoted Black fans, and driven by passionate Black owners. At the very center of this vibrant baseball world stood Effa Manley, the brilliant co-owner and business manager of the Newark Eagles. As the first and only woman ever inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame, Effa Manley was an elegant, gutsy, and fiercely determined leader. She tirelessly cultivated the Newark Eagles into a genuine powerhouse team, fighting for Black empowerment both on and off the field. She hated to lose and dedicated her life to ensuring her players received the respect and success they deserved. Just as her beloved Eagles reached the absolute pinnacle of their success, the growing calls to integrate professional baseball threatened to extinguish the Negro Leagues entirely. You will step into the high-stakes business of baseball history as Effa navigates an industry that seems rigged against her. This riveting true story reveals the incredible challenges and triumphs of a trailblazing woman who changed the game of baseball forever, making it an essential read for your exploration of sports history and the fight for equality.

Explore every major aspect of human knowledge through a groundbreaking visual experience that completely changes how you see the world. Utilizing highly detailed computer generated imagery, this massive reference guide allows you to examine the universe from the microscopic inside of an atom to the colossal gravitational pull of a black hole. You can investigate the complex cells that give the human body energy, study a three dimensional strand of DNA, or look closely at the internal anatomy of a great white shark. Beyond biology and space, you will also journey through global history, tracking the earliest life forms up to the incredible technological advances of the modern world. You can examine detailed models of Shakespeare's historic theater, follow the strategic raids of Viking warriors, and understand the complex chemical reactions behind a fireworks display. By making tough subjects accessible and highly engaging, this fully updated encyclopedia provides a mind blowing introduction to science, nature, history, and human culture that you will want to read again and again.

Striking a major blow against the corrupt Singular Corporation was a victory for Shay Remby and her rebel friends, but that success came with a terrifying new complication. During the daring rescue of Shay's brother, the group also liberated a girl named Fenfang. She is not an ordinary captive. Singular scientists used her as a human test subject, attempting to implant the stolen memories of a United States senator directly into her brain. Now, Fenfang possesses highly classified, dangerous knowledge that powerful people will kill to keep quiet. As you continue this gripping adventure, you will join Shay as she realizes the stakes are higher than ever. Singular has already demonstrated their ruthlessness by murdering one of her close allies, proving they will stop at nothing to protect their corporate secrets. The corporation is hunting them with lethal intent, desperate to retrieve their experimental subject. With the target on their backs growing larger every day, Shay and her teenage crew must figure out how to decode the fragmented memories trapped inside Fenfang's mind. You will follow their desperate race to gather enough evidence to permanently expose the organization before Singular's ruthless hitmen finish them all off.

Score a major victory in your everyday life with this ultimate guide to overcoming obstacles and reaching your goals. Packed with powerful advice and fifty two essential rules, this book takes the brilliant strategies used by legendary athletes and applies them directly to your own challenges. You will read incredible, true stories from sports stars like Stephen Curry and Venus Williams, discovering exactly what it takes to bounce back from a tough loss and keep pushing forward. Whether you are facing a difficult test at school, trying out for a new team, or just needing a little extra motivation to chase your dreams, these uplifting lessons have you covered. Get ready to build your confidence, learn the true value of resilience, and create your very own game plan for absolute success.

Alexander has made a major decision: he is going to be the Best Boy Ever. Yesterday, somebody ate a whole box of jelly donuts and left the empty box behind. When his mom found out, there were terrible consequences. Alexander hates consequences. Starting right now, for the rest of his entire life, he will be perfectly behaved. He will not fight with his brothers, he will not make a mess, and he definitely will not eat any forbidden treats. But being completely perfect is incredibly boring! It means skipping all the fun, messy, and loud things that make life exciting. You will laugh out loud as you watch Alexander struggle to keep his big promise. This hilarious story shows just how difficult it is to stay perfectly out of trouble when you are a kid who just wants to have fun.

Breaking a major school rule was the worst mistake Baxter, Abigail, Turner, and Emerson ever made. Their punishment is a mandatory extra credit trip into the freezing, isolated wilderness. They expect a boring weekend of tedious team building exercises, but the snowy mountains have a far more dangerous lesson in store. When their adult instructor suddenly vanishes without a trace, the four classmates are left completely alone in the freezing woods. Their only lifeline is a torn survival handbook containing a series of cryptic outdoor challenges. To make it out alive, these four complete opposites will have to stop arguing and start relying on each other. You will bundle up for a thrilling fight against the elements as the students face freezing temperatures, wild animals, and unexpected twists. They must decode the survival manual and master the harsh wilderness before the brutal winter weather traps them forever.

Turning sixteen is a major milestone for anyone, but for Josie, it is an event that literally only happens once every four years. Because she was born on Leap Day, this is technically only her fourth official birthday, making the expectations for the day incredibly high. As you follow Josie through her highly anticipated morning, you will experience the chaotic rush of a teenager trying to conquer all her goals at once. She is determined to finally pass her nerve-wracking driver's test, nail her audition for the big school play, and celebrate with her closest friends and eccentric family. But in a single day packed with so many momentous experiences, absolutely nothing goes exactly according to plan. You will navigate the unpredictable twists and turns of high school drama, sudden surprises, and genuine moments of connection. It is a funny, heartfelt look at the messy reality of growing up and figuring out who you are, even when the calendar refuses to cooperate.

There is a major crisis brewing, and it is all about snacks. Four hungry friends have gathered together, but there is one giant problem staring them right in the face. There are only three delicious cookies to share among the four of them. Hippo, Croc, and the two Squirrels are absolutely determined to make sure everyone gets an equal amount. But how can you divide three cookies equally among four friends? The math just does not add up! As the friends try to figure out a fair solution, the tension begins to rise. A nervous Hippo is getting so stressed out that he might just accidentally smash all the cookies into tiny crumbs before anyone gets a single bite. They need to act fast and use their best problem-solving skills to save snack time. This hilarious, fast-paced early reader is packed with funny dialogue and silly panic, perfect for kids who are just starting to read on their own.

Harriet Wermer has made a major life change: she no longer tells lies. After a rocky start to her summer vacation, she has fully embraced her new policy of absolute honesty. What began as a dreaded trip to Marble Island has turned into a summer she never wants to end. With her mother and new baby brother finally back home from the hospital, Harriet's time at her grandmother Nanu's bed-and-breakfast is drawing to a close. She is preparing to pack her bags and say goodbye to the wonderful friends she has made. The peaceful end to her vacation is abruptly interrupted when she makes a terrible discovery. Moneypenny, Nanu's beloved and adorable basset hound, has been poisoned. Harriet knows instantly that the culprit must be one of the eccentric guests staying at the bed-and-breakfast. Teaming up with her best friend Clarence, Harriet dives headfirst into a brand new investigation. When another mysterious illness strikes the island, the stakes are raised even higher. Harriet must sharpen her sleuthing skills, practice her sneakiest spying techniques, and confront the difficult reality that the truth is sometimes much more complicated than a simple fact.

A massive thunderstorm just caused a major holiday disaster. Twinklestar, the most easily spooked reindeer in the herd, panics during the flight and sends Santa Claus crashing straight down from the sky. Now, the very last real Santa is stranded in an ordinary neighborhood with his Christmas caravan broken. To make matters worse, a ruthless villain named Jeremiah Goblynch is tracking him down. Goblynch and his army of terrifying Nutcracker goons want to destroy all children's wishes and turn the holiday season into a giant moneymaking scheme. Fortunately, two brave local kids, Charlotte and Ben, stumble upon the crashed sleigh and step up to help. Together, they must protect Santa, outsmart the evil Goblynch, and save the true magic of Christmas before time runs out. This quirky, fast-paced holiday adventure is filled with wonderful magic, narrow escapes, and plenty of heart. It is the perfect winter thrill ride that proves even ordinary kids can become extraordinary heroes.

Princess Mia Thermopolis is facing a major crisis, and this time, it has nothing to do with ruling Genovia. The student government at her high school is completely bankrupt, and as president, it is entirely her responsibility to fix it. You will laugh out loud as Mia hatches desperate plans to raise cash and save her school's events. At the same time, she is secretly harboring a brand new ambition: she wants to become a true party girl. Navigating the complex social scene of Manhattan teenagers is a terrifying challenge for someone used to strict royal protocols and awkward journal entries. Read along through her incredibly candid diaries as she attempts to balance fundraising disasters with her quest for social cool. You will find out if Mia can pull off the ultimate party without causing an international incident.

Starting high school is a major transition, and for Alice McKinley, ninth grade brings a wave of unexpected changes. After a difficult breakup with her longtime boyfriend, Patrick, Alice finds herself navigating the halls of high school as a single girl for the first time in years. Without the comfort of her familiar relationship, she is forced to figure out exactly who she is on her own. Looking for a fresh start, Alice decides to throw herself into new activities and joins the crew of the school play. Surrounded by a completely different group of friends and exciting new challenges, she begins to discover hidden talents and a renewed sense of independence. But high school is never simple, and Alice must balance her changing friendships, family dynamics, and the lingering feelings from her past. As she steps out of her comfort zone, Alice learns that sometimes losing what you thought you wanted is the only way to find what you truly need.

Eastport Middle School is facing a major crisis, at least for Charlie Joe Jackson. Suddenly, every single one of his friends has a girlfriend. Even the guys he never expected to find romance have paired off, leaving Charlie Joe completely alone. Determined not to be left behind, he heads to the absolute last place anyone would look for him: the school library. There, he discovers the ultimate guidebook to romance and winning over a crush. Before long, everyone is coming to him for dating advice. But things get complicated when Charlie Joe realizes his own crush might not be the girl he originally thought.

The newly crowned King Arthur has a major problem. He is unsure of himself, and worse, the people of England are unsure of him. With treachery hiding in every shadow and too many rivals wanting the throne, the great wizard Merlin knows he must act quickly. To prove Arthur is the true ruler, Merlin magically traps a sword inside a solid slab of rock. He announces that whoever can pull the blade free will rightfully rule all of England. The plan is simple: let the strongest men fail, and then Arthur will step up and draw the sword with a little magical help. But Merlin's brilliant plan goes terribly wrong when someone else pulls the sword out first! Dive into this spellbinding twist on the classic legend of the Round Table. You will be swept away by a thrilling tale of magic, betrayal, loyalty, and adventure as Arthur fights to earn the crown he was meant to wear.

When your family goes through a major shift, it helps to hold onto the facts. After her parents divorce, Bea starts keeping a list in her green notebook of all the things that will stay exactly the same. The very first and most important rule on her list is that her mom and dad will always love her, and they will always love each other. Now, Bea's dad is getting married to his boyfriend, Jesse, and Bea could not be happier. She adores Jesse, and the upcoming wedding means she will finally get the one thing she has always dreamed of having: a sister. Even though she has never actually met Jesse's daughter, Sonia, Bea is absolutely positive they will be best friends right away. But as the wedding day draws closer, Bea discovers that blending families is not always simple. Navigating new relationships brings unexpected questions, big feelings, and wonderful surprises. This warm and honest story explores the beautiful complexities of modern family life, showing how love can expand to make room for everyone when you keep your heart open.

Percy the beaver is ready for a major lifestyle upgrade, so he excitedly signs up for the exclusive House of the Month Club. Every month brings a brand new, spectacular home for him to try out, promising an exciting change from his usual lodge. Tag along with Percy as he tests out five incredibly different and sometimes ridiculous living arrangements. From towering castles to floating palaces, you will giggle at the unexpected problems that come with each new fancy residence. Sometimes, a house that looks absolutely perfect on paper is not quite right for a busy, swimming beaver. This humorous and engaging story is fantastic for emerging readers who are ready to tackle slightly longer narratives. Through Percy's entertaining real estate adventures, you will discover that the grass is not always greener on the other side, and sometimes, the best home is the one you already have.

Fourteen-year-old Doreen Green has a major problem: fighting crime as the unbeatable Squirrel Girl leaves very little time for her middle school homework! Between taking down amateur super villains and constantly group-texting the Avengers, she is struggling to balance her heroic duties with evil teachers and messy friendships. But when a massive new shopping mall announces its grand opening right on the border of her town, things go from stressful to completely chaotic. The neighboring towns are tasked with voting on the mall's official mascot, and the election quickly spirals into an all-out, bizarre turf war. Even the normally peaceful Squirrel Scouts are losing their minds! Doreen and her best friend Ana Sofia soon realize this is no ordinary community rivalry. Something dark and sinister is pulling the strings from the shadows, plotting something much worse than bad retail decisions. Can Squirrel Girl unleash the furry paws of justice and stop a secret plot for world domination before her town tears itself apart?

Monte and Mabel have only one major item on their Christmas wish list: the chance to hang out with Santa Claus himself. When his famous sleigh breaks down right in their front yard after his final delivery, it seems like a holiday miracle! Santa needs a place to stay while waiting for spare parts, and the kids are thrilled to host him. But it turns out that the jolly man in red is a terrible houseguest. Santa stays up late rocking out to loud music, swigs spaghetti sauce straight from the jar, and totally messes with Dad's motorcycle. The family quickly realizes that having Santa around is exhausting, and they all agree on one thing: Santa's gotta go! This hilarious holiday tale explores the chaotic reality of getting exactly what you wish for. Join the fun as the family tries to figure out a polite way to evict their favorite holiday icon!

Twelve-year-old Greg Kenton has two major obsessions in life: making huge piles of cash and beating his annoying neighbor, Maura Shaw, at absolutely everything. Right before sixth grade begins, Greg realizes his school is a giant piggy bank just waiting to be cracked. His brilliant plan is to sell chunky, self-illustrated comic books to his classmates for spare change. The business is booming until Maura steps in, launching her own line of high-quality mini-books and threatening his monopoly. Just as their fierce rivalry turns into a surprising business partnership, the school principal shuts down their entire operation. Now, these lifelong enemies must figure out how to work together as a team to save their beloved enterprise. Get ready for a hilarious, fast-paced story about ambition, teamwork, and the true value of a hard-earned quarter.

Allie Navarro is ready for a major comeback. After a disastrous glitch almost ruined her last coding project, she needs to prove her tech skills are sharper than ever. When her class is tasked with building a new mobile game, Allie teams up with her brilliant camp friend, Courtney, to create the ultimate school app: Swap'd. The concept is simple but highly addictive. Swap'd allows kids to buy, sell, and trade their stuff completely anonymously. Suddenly, everyone at school is trading candy, video games, and clothes in a fiercely competitive race against the clock. The app is a massive hit, and Allie is thrilled. She is making enough cash to help Courtney buy a plane ticket to visit, and the app even gives her a reason to talk to her super-secret crush. She might even finally outsmart her biggest rival turned friend, Nathan. But as the anonymous trades get wilder and the stakes get higher, Allie realizes that managing a viral marketplace is a lot harder than building one. She has to figure out how to keep her digital creation from spinning totally out of control before someone gets hurt.

A simple plant sale turns into a major neighborhood mystery when a very unusual leafy green goes missing. Nate the Great's friend Oliver is devastated after losing the special plant he just bought at Rosamond's peculiar Adopt-A-Weed sale. This is not just an ordinary dandelion or a boring clover; Oliver is convinced that it is a powerful Superweed. Always ready to help a friend in need, Nate takes the case. Accompanied by his trusty dog, Sludge, the young detective begins a massive search that takes them deep into the woods, across the local park, and even straight into the quiet library. Finding one specific weed in a world full of plants seems nearly impossible, but Nate is determined to weed out the truth. Readers will enjoy digging through the evidence as Nate discovers that the biggest and most important clue might just be hiding right under his nose the entire time.

The classroom is about to get a major dose of hilarious confusion. When the principal, Mr. Carter, accidentally mistakes the literal-minded housekeeper Amelia Bedelia for the school's new substitute teacher, the students are in for an unforgettable day. Armed with a list of lesson plans, Amelia steps up to the chalkboard ready to follow every direction exactly as it is written. If the schedule says to call the roll, she might just ask bread rolls to speak up. If it is time for a science experiment or a physical education drill, her unique interpretations lead to instant chaos and endless giggles. You will love watching the students react as their ordinary school day turns into a wild and wacky adventure. This incredibly funny story perfectly captures the magic of words and the hilarious trouble they can cause when the world's most literal thinker is put in charge of a classroom full of eager children.

Monica is standing at a major crossroads in her life. As the tallest twelve-year-old on her gymnastics squad, she is discovering that her body is changing in ways that make her sport incredibly difficult. The graceful flips and tumbling moves that used to feel effortless now require intense concentration and cause her constant frustration. The gym no longer feels like the perfect fit it once was. At the same time, Monica is finding a completely different kind of joy outside of the gym. She has a natural talent for taking care of animals and has started volunteering at the local veterinarian's office. You will relate to her confusing mix of emotions as she balances the thrill of healing sick pets with the crushing pressure of failing on the balance beam. This thoughtful middle grade story captures the difficult choices that come with growing up. Monica must look deep inside herself and make a tough decision. Should she keep pushing through the physical struggles of gymnastics, or is it finally time to hang up her leotard and chase a brand new dream?