An Anthology Honoring and Amplifying Black Life
Pictures by
Vanessa Brantley-Newton, Floyd Cooper, Pat Cummings, Ekua Holmes, Keith Knight, London Ladd, James Ransome, Don Tate, Eric Velásquez, and Shannon Wright
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Collected by
Wade Hudson and Cheryl Willis Hudson
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With
Mahogany L. Browne, Paula Chase, Dhonielle Clayton, Lesa Cline-Ransome, Sharon M. Draper, Lamar Giles, Nikki Grimes, Curtis Hudson, Tiffany Jewell, Kelly Starling Lyons, Kwame Mbalia, Deray Mckesson, Robert H. Miller, Denene Milner, Jerdine Nolen, Adedayo Perkovich, Ronald Lenard Smith, Nic Stone, Carole Boston Weatherford, Alicia D. Williams, and Ibi Zobi
Black lives have always mattered. In this moving and powerful anthology, prominent Black creators bring their insight, talent, and passion to celebrate Black culture, resistance, and joy. Serving as a stunning follow-up to previous conversations about race and truth, this collection brings together award-winning authors and artists to explore the unyielding necessity of the Black Lives Matter movement. Through a dynamic blend of essays, poems, short stories, and historical excerpts, the contributors capture the prestige and resilience of being Black in America. The book features an eight-page full-color insert of spellbinding art that visualizes the strength and beauty of the community. Readers will discover stories of the past, powerful journeys of the present, and the brilliant light guiding the future. It is a necessary and deeply enriching primer on identity and courage, offering a multifaceted look at the ongoing fight for equality and the vibrant celebration of life.
217 Pages
Prepare to be genuinely creeped out. Long before he was known for giant peaches and chocolate factories, the master of the unexpected had a deep fascination with the macabre. He read hundreds of supernatural tales just to find the absolute best, most disturbing ones to share with you. This curated collection brings together fourteen chilling ghost stories guaranteed to linger in your mind long after you turn off the lights. These are not your typical jump-scare monster tales. Instead, they are quietly unsettling, creeping up on you with weird atmospheres, unexplainable events, and deeply haunted characters. Whether you are reading about an eerie encounter in a dusty old house or a sudden chill on a quiet road, these masterful stories are designed to get under your skin. Dive into this dark, atmospheric anthology and discover exactly what kept a legendary storyteller awake at night.
317 Pages
Four-year-old Robert has a favorite place in the whole city, but he does not call it the public library. To him, it is simply Mike's House. That is because his absolute favorite book, Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel, lives right there on the shelves. He loves visiting his friend Mike every single week.
But one snowy morning, Robert gets separated from his mother on the busy city streets. When a friendly police officer stops to help him find his way, Robert knows exactly where he wants to go. The only problem is that the officer has never heard of anyone named Mike who lives in a giant building filled with books.
Now, Robert must help the confused policeman figure out the clues to find the library. It is a funny and heartwarming city adventure that perfectly captures the magic of finding your favorite story.
32 Pages
What Is the Story Of?
What Is the Story of The Wizard of Oz?
Follow the yellow brick road and discover the fascinating true story behind one of the most famous fairytales in history. When author L. Frank Baum first wrote about a young farm girl named Dorothy and her little dog Toto traveling through the magical Land of Oz in 1900, he just wanted to write a beautiful story. He had no idea that his book would explode into a massive cultural phenomenon.
This book takes you behind the scenes of America's best-loved homegrown fairytale. You will explore how the original story was created, the secrets behind the making of the iconic 1939 film, and how the magical world expanded into numerous sequels, exciting retellings, and smash-hit stage musicals like Wicked. From the first magical pages of Baum's book to the silver screen and beyond, the history of The Wizard of Oz is just as magical as the story itself.
114 Pages
L.A. Candy
Sugar and Spice
Jane Roberts has learned that being famous does not make it easier to know who is telling the truth.
After a painful betrayal, Jane wants to step away from the drama and take control of her own life. But on a hit reality show, private choices quickly become public entertainment. The press wants conflict between Jane and Madison, old romantic feelings return at the worst possible moment, and Scarlett’s relationship with Liam brings new tension to life on camera.
Sugar and Spice is a polished, dramatic conclusion to the L.A. Candy series, blending teen romance, friendship, celebrity pressure, and the strange rules of reality television. For readers who enjoy young adult fiction about Hollywood, loyalty, and secrets, this story shows how complicated “real life” can become when everyone is watching.
L.A. Candy
Sweet Little Lies
Jane Roberts thought reality-TV fame would be exciting. Now it feels impossible to hide from.
After she and her best friend Scarlett become stars of L.A. Candy, Jane finds herself caught in a tabloid scandal when private photos are leaked to the press. She turns to Madison Parker for support, but trusting the right person is not easy in Hollywood. Meanwhile, Scarlett is keeping a secret of her own: she has fallen for someone she knows is off-limits.
Sweet Little Lies is a fast-moving young adult novel about fame, friendship, romance, and the secrets people try to protect when the whole world is watching. With reality-show drama and Hollywood pressure on every page, it is made for readers who like glamorous stories with sharp emotional stakes.
340 Pages
The Fame Game
The Fame Game
Madison Parker is done standing beside someone else’s spotlight.
After making her name as Jane Roberts’s sharp-tongued best frenemy on L.A. Candy, Madison finally has a reality show of her own. She is ready to become Hollywood’s next big thing, but fame is crowded, competitive, and full of people with their own plans. Backstabbing friends, suspicious family members, and rising star Carmen Price all threaten to turn Madison’s big break into a battle for attention.
The Fame Game is a sleek, drama-filled young adult novel about ambition, celebrity, and the carefully edited version of life that appears on television. If you like stories with Hollywood gossip, rivalry, and complicated friendships, this reality-TV world has plenty to reveal.
320 Pages
High up in a cozy home made entirely out of an old boot, a tiny mouse named Robert is looking out the window with wide eyes. White, fluffy flakes are falling from the sky, and he cannot wait to experience his very first snowy day. But when his excitement gets the best of him, Robert tumbles right out of the window and lands in a massive, freezing winter wonderland. You will follow Robert as he bravely navigates the giant snowdrifts and icy paths of the unknown world outside. Separated from his family, he must figure out how to stay warm and find his way back to his snug boot home. Join this courageous little mouse on a chilly adventure that proves even the smallest heroes can handle a big winter storm.
Robert has a red balloon, and that simple bright object gives this picture book its gentle center. Philippe Dupasquier's story invites young readers into a child's world of play, friendship, and small everyday excitement, where a balloon can feel important enough to shape the whole day. With warm illustrations and an accessible story line, the book gives children room to notice feelings, follow Robert's choices, and talk about what makes a favorite toy or moment special. Because the available record gives only limited plot detail, this description stays close to the known focus: Robert, his red balloon, and a child-friendly story of companionship and play.
32 Pages
Robert loves aeroplanes, so a visit from his ex-air-force uncle feels like the best kind of excitement. Stories of flying, machines, and daring adventures fill Robert's imagination, and his uncle's parting gift seems made for a child who dreams of the sky. But real-life flying may not feel quite the same as Robert expected. Philippe Dupasquier turns one boy's enthusiasm into a funny, lightly adventurous picture-book story about big interests, family visitors, and the gap between imagining something and trying it for yourself. Young readers who are fascinated by planes and vehicles will enjoy Robert's eager point of view.
32 Pages
Robert is tired of being called little. Everyone may love him, but that does not make the word any easier to hear, and Robert's frustration follows him through the day. When his parents take him on an outing to the zoo, the visit brings surprises that challenge the way Robert thinks about being small. Philippe Dupasquier's picture-book story gives young readers a character whose feelings are easy to understand: wanting to be taken seriously, wanting to be brave, and wanting others to see more than size. With animals, humor, and a lively zoo setting, it is a warm story about confidence and perspective.
26 Pages
Meet Robert. He is a strong horse who wants to be helpful, but he has one very big problem: he is allergic to roses! One little sniff of a flower sends Robert into a sneezing fit so powerful it can blow the hats off heads and the feathers off birds. When Robert leaves his farm to find a job in the big city, he soon discovers that sneezing makes it very hard to keep a steady position. From a milk wagon to the police force, Robert tries his best, but those pesky roses always seem to find him.
Everything changes when Robert encounters a group of sneaky bank robbers. Can his enormous sneeze actually save the day? This classic story is filled with silly moments and lots of heart, making it a perfect pick for you to practice your reading skills. Join Robert on his bumpy journey to find a place where he truly belongs.
Heather is tired of the endless stream of tourists wandering through the grand historic house where her parents work. Seeking a little peace and quiet, she sneaks off to explore the estate grounds. But her quiet escape takes a dramatic turn when she accidentally awakens Wild Robert, a legendary figure who has been trapped on the property for over three hundred and fifty years.
Robert is not your typical historical figure. He is a mischievous, magical trickster who has no idea how the modern world works, and he is absolutely thrilled to be back. Suddenly, Heather finds herself trying to manage a deeply unpredictable companion who thinks nothing of casting wild spells, causing hilarious chaos, and turning the peaceful stately home completely upside down.
As the magical accidents pile up and the tourists begin to notice strange happenings, Heather must figure out a way to keep Wild Robert out of trouble before her parents lose their jobs. Written with sharp humor and delightful magical twists, this fast-paced story explores what happens when history decides to wake up and cause a little mayhem. Get ready for an adventure filled with laughter, unpredictable spells, and a very unusual new friendship.
112 Pages
Who Was?
Who Was Robert E. Lee?
Imagine having to choose between fighting for your country or fighting for your home state. This was the incredibly difficult decision that faced Robert E. Lee. Growing up as the son of a famous Revolutionary War hero, Lee seemed destined for a life of greatness and military honor. He even graduated second in his class at the prestigious West Point military academy!
When the Southern states decided to break away from the Union in 1861, the United States government actually asked Lee to lead their army. Even though he did not want a war to happen, his deep loyalty to his home state of Virginia made him say no. Instead, he chose to command the Southern forces.
You will read about his stunning rise to power during the American Civil War, his brilliant battle strategies, and the ultimate defeat of his army. Dive into history to understand the complex life of General Robert E. Lee and the huge role he played during one of the most divided times in America.
114 Pages
Who Was?
Who Was Robert Ripley?
Step into a world of shrunken heads, mysterious relics, and bizarre oddities in the delightfully strange true story of Robert Ripley. Born in California, Ripley started his career drawing sports cartoons, but he quickly discovered a passion for the weird and wonderful. He began traveling the globe, eventually visiting more than 200 countries, just to hunt down the most unbelievable facts and unusual objects he could find.
He shared these amazing discoveries in his famous weekly column, Believe It Or Not!, which became a massive hit all over the world. People could not get enough of his fascinating stories about strange customs, impossible records, and peculiar artifacts. His love for the unusual eventually launched a massive entertainment empire, leading to the creation of his famous Odditoriums. Explore the curious life of the man who proved that truth is often much stranger than fiction.
114 Pages
Willa of the Wood
Willa of Dark Hollow
The Great Smoky Mountains have always been a safe haven for Willa and her clan. As the last of the Faeran, an ancient race of forest people, Willa is deeply connected to the trees and wildlife around her. But her beloved home is suddenly under threat. Crews of humans have arrived with powerful machines, tearing down the ancient trees and destroying the landscape. Willa feels powerless against these destructive newcomers, until she stumbles upon a mysterious dark hollow. Hidden within this shadowed place are strange, beautiful creatures and a terrifying force that preys on humans. Willa faces a difficult choice. She could unleash these dangerous spirits to stop the loggers and save her forest, but doing so might bring an even darker threat to the mountains. You will follow Willa as she navigates this dangerous conflict, struggling to protect the people and animals she loves while standing against a consuming darkness that threatens her entire world. This thrilling fantasy explores the delicate balance of nature and the courage required to protect it.
384 Pages
Soup
Soup in Love
When Valentine's Day arrives in the quiet town of Learning, Vermont, you can be sure that trouble is not far behind. Soup and his best friend Rob are about to discover that matters of the heart require a lot of heavy lifting. After falling head over heels for a pair of visitors from Texas, the two boys decide to build the largest, most spectacular Valentine the town has ever seen. There is just one massive problem standing in their way. The contraption is entirely too heavy for them to move down the steepest hill in the county. To deliver their giant romantic gesture, Soup and Rob must use all their cleverness to trick the town bullies into doing the hard work for them. Get ready for a hilarious ride as you follow these two best friends through a maze of crushes, towering cardboard creations, and clever schemes. This classic adventure proves that true friendship can survive even the messiest of holiday plans.
134 Pages
The Lord of the Rings
The Return of the King
The road to Mordor has nearly reached its end, but Middle-earth is still trembling under the shadow of Sauron. Frodo and Sam must push deeper into the enemy’s land with the One Ring, while far away Aragorn, Gandalf, Merry, Pippin, and their allies face battles that may decide the fate of every free people.
This final volume of The Lord of the Rings brings together courage, loyalty, sacrifice, and the heavy cost of hope. You will find sweeping armies, ancient kings, terrifying enemies, and quiet acts of friendship that matter as much as any sword. Tolkien’s language is rich and serious, best for readers ready for a complex fantasy world where every choice carries weight.
For strong middle grade and teen readers, The Return of the King is a classic epic fantasy about standing against darkness when victory seems almost impossible.
864 Pages
The Story of a Woman Warrior
When Fa Mulan learns that her frail, elderly father has been drafted into the Khan's army to fight the fierce Tartars, she knows he will not survive. To save his life, she makes a brave and dangerous choice. Under the cover of dawn, she cuts her hair, puts on her father's armor, and rides off to war in his place. Disguised as a young man, Mulan must quickly learn the art of war and the skill of the sword. The battlefield is terrifying, but her courage and quick thinking soon earn her fame and respect among the warriors. Even as she becomes a legendary general, she lives with the constant fear that her true identity will be discovered. If the Khan finds out a woman has joined his ranks, the consequences for her family could be severe. Based on the ancient Chinese legend, this beautifully illustrated tale captures the thrilling journey of a heroine who risks everything out of love and loyalty. Experience the epic story of a selfless young woman who proves that true strength comes from within.
32 Pages
Serafina
Serafina and the Seven Stars
Peace has finally returned to the grand halls of Biltmore Estate, but Serafina remains on edge. As the Guardian of Biltmore, she spends her days and nights patrolling the grounds, unable to shake the feeling that danger is still lurking. Her unease deepens when her best friend, Braeden Vanderbilt, leaves for a boarding school in New York. Left to navigate the estate alone, Serafina is asked to move into one of the grandest rooms to keep an eye on guests arriving for an annual hunt. Soon, the opulent mansion transforms into a place of unsettling shadows and nameless terrors. Serafina begins to doubt her own senses as strange events unfold. Did Braeden secretly return for one night, or is her mind playing tricks on her? When she witnesses a shocking crime, her understanding of good and evil is turned entirely upside down. You will be kept guessing as Serafina struggles to uncover the truth and protect her home from a sinister new force. This dark and astonishing mystery challenges a brave heroine to trust her own heart.
352 Pages
Step into the dense jungles of nineteenth-century Africa with Ralph Rover, Jack Martin, and Peterkin Gay, three lifelong friends who have reunited for the ultimate expedition. Six years after their harrowing survival in the South Seas, the trio embarks on a dangerous new quest to study and hunt the elusive gorilla, an animal shrouded in mystery and fear. The wilds of Africa hold more than just rare wildlife. As they navigate treacherous terrain and face down charging elephants and prowling lions, the young explorers discover that the true threats come in many forms. They must outwit a brutal slave trader and survive the volatile whims of a powerful local king. Every step deeper into the wilderness tests their courage, their resilience, and the bonds of their enduring friendship. Written by a master of classic adventure, this gripping historical journey brings the untamed landscape to life. Prepare for a story filled with relentless action, narrow escapes, and profound discoveries about the natural world and the strength of the human spirit.
156 Pages
Welcome to Centerburg, a seemingly ordinary town where the most preposterous things happen on a daily basis! Meet Homer Price, a sensible boy who always manages to keep a cool head when absolute chaos erupts around him. Whether the town is dealing with giant ragweeds growing taller than houses or a catchy song that forces everyone to dance uncontrollably, Homer is always ready to step up and figure out a clever solution. Adding to the wild fun is his Grampa Hercules, who loves spinning exaggerated tall tales from his youth that completely blur the line between fact and fiction. Join Homer, Grampa Herc, and the rest of the quirky townsfolk as they navigate a series of hilarious mishaps and bizarre mysteries. This classic collection of short stories is packed with brilliant humor, clever problem-solving, and unforgettable characters that will keep you turning the pages. Get ready to laugh out loud as you discover what wild, unpredictable adventure awaits the citizens of Centerburg next!
192 Pages
CHERUB
The Fall
When an undercover intelligence operation goes disastrously wrong, James finds himself completely stranded in Russia. He must use every ounce of his specialized training to escape hostile territory alive, relying entirely on his instincts rather than gadgets or backup. Meanwhile, his sister Lauren embarks on her very first solo mission, tasked with infiltrating and dismantling a ruthless human trafficking ring.
As James aggressively fights his way back, he soon discovers that returning home is only the beginning of a much darker nightmare. The siblings are pushed to their absolute limits on separate continents, facing deadly enemies who have no idea they are dealing with highly trained teenage spies.
Step into a world of high-stakes espionage where the danger is incredibly real and the agents blend right into the crowd. This intense, action-packed adventure delivers relentless suspense and jaw-dropping twists from the very first page.
368 Pages
Meet the most delightfully dreadful darling in the graveyard. Cinderella Skeleton is everything a proper ghoul should be, complete with yellow nails and green teeth. Sadly, her evil stepsisters treat her terribly, leaving her to do all the miserable chores like hanging cobwebs and arranging dead flowers. When Prince Charnel announces his grand Halloween Ball, poor Cinderella is left behind in the dust. But with a little dark magic from a good witch, she is transformed into the belle of the spooky ball and quickly steals the handsome prince's heart. As the sun begins to peek over the horizon, she must dash away before the morning light breaks the spell. Told in hilarious rhyme, this fractured fairy tale puts a spooky twist on a classic favorite. Get ready for a wonderfully wicked adventure that proves true love can be found even among the tombstones.
36 Pages
Burt Dow isn't your average fisherman. He lives in a cozy little house on the coast of Maine and never sets sail without his best friend—a giggling pet seagull! You can usually find the two of them happily bobbing along the ocean waves in Burt's trusty, leaky old boat.
But one day, a simple fishing trip turns into a massive, splashy adventure. When a wild, roaring storm rolls in, Burt and his gull need to find a safe place to hide, fast. Their solution? The belly of a giant whale!
To get out, Burt will have to use a whole lot of brainpower, some quick thinking, and a surprisingly colorful collection of striped band-aids. This classic, hilarious tale is packed with big laughs, ocean surprises, and a clever fisherman who knows exactly how to handle the deepest, wildest waters.
66 Pages
Rock War
Boot Camp
Jay, Summer, and Dylan have finally made it to the ultimate music boot camp at the ultra-glamorous Rock War Manor. Prepare for six intense weeks of music, friendship, and non-stop partying as they and their bands train rigorously for potential rock stardom.
But the reality of music festivals and glitzy premieres is far more complicated than it looks on television. Living under the constant, unblinking watch of a film crew, the teenage musicians face intense personal drama, brutal rivalries, and the crushing pressure of the bright spotlight.
Will the bands hold it together long enough to survive the final stage of the competition, or will the immense heat cause a complete meltdown? This gripping story pulls you deep into the thrilling, chaotic world of the music industry and the fierce drive it takes to make it to the top.
347 Pages
Do you ever get stuck wearing something you really don't like? Meet Thomas, who thinks his brand-new snowsuit is the absolute ugliest thing he has ever seen! When it's time to put it on, his answer is a very loud and clear, "NNNNNO!"
But winter weather waits for no one, and Thomas's mom, his teacher, and even the principal all try their best to convince him. Will anyone be able to get Thomas into that puffy, ugly snowsuit? Join Thomas in this funny story about being a bit stubborn and the hilarious grown-ups who try their hardest to get things done. Get ready to laugh out loud at Thomas's big "NNNNNO!" and see what happens next!
250 Pages
Moira knows her parents will say no if she asks to invite the entire school to her birthday party, so she simply decides not to tell them. When the big day finally arrives, her parents are completely shocked as kindergarteners and kids from grades one through six all come knocking at the door. Suddenly, the house is packed with hundreds of noisy guests, and her frantic parents are scrambling to order enough pizza and cake to feed an entire elementary school. The house turns into a total disaster zone, but clever Moira is ready to take charge. You will love watching the hilarious panic unfold as Moira sails through the chaos to throw the most legendary birthday party ever.
38 Pages
Prince Vachagan expects his royal title to be enough to win the heart of the brilliant and beautiful Anait. But she has a surprising condition. Anait refuses to marry a lazy prince, declaring she will only accept his proposal if he learns to read, write, and create something beautiful with his own two hands. Eager to win her affection, the prince dedicates himself to mastering the intricate art of weaving alongside his studies. After they marry, their peaceful life is shattered when a horrible creature captures Vachagan and imprisons him in a dark dungeon. Now, the prince must rely on his newly acquired weaving skills to send a secret message to his clever wife. When Anait receives his woven plea, she rides to the rescue, proving that knowledge and craftsmanship are far more powerful than simple royalty. This captivating folktale highlights the importance of education, hard work, and equal partnership in a thrilling adventure.
32 Pages
Christopher has a sneaky plan and a fresh batch of play clay. He crafts a perfectly delicious-looking cookie and proudly presents it to his parents. They are completely touched by his sweet gift until they take a big bite and discover his squishy, gross prank. But Christopher's parents are not about to let him get away with it. They team up with his teacher to bake up the ultimate revenge. Get ready to laugh out loud as a simple joke turns into a hilarious classroom showdown. This funny, playful story proves that sometimes the best tricks are the ones that get turned back on you.
30 Pages
High in the stunning landscape of the Yosemite Valley, two playful bear cubs wander away from their mother and find themselves in terrible danger. Ignoring warnings, they fall asleep on a flat rock that magically grows higher and higher into the sky, eventually becoming the towering granite peak known as El Capitan. When the mother bear discovers her cubs are stranded at the very top, she is frantic with worry. All the animals of the forest gather to help, from the proud mountain lion to the sturdy badger, but the rock is too steep and slippery for any of them to climb. Just when all hope seems lost, the smallest creature in the forest steps forward. A tiny measuring worm believes he can accomplish what the strongest animals could not. Based on a traditional Miwok legend, this beautifully told story celebrates the power of determination and reminds us that true bravery often comes in the smallest packages.
David Balfour
Kidnapped
Being Memoirs of the Adventures of David Balfour in the Year 1751
David Balfour expects an inheritance. Instead, he is tricked, kidnapped, and swept into a dangerous journey across eighteenth-century Scotland.
In this classic adventure, David must learn whom to trust as he escapes shipwreck, pursuit, and political danger. His path crosses with Alan Breck Stewart, a bold Highlander whose courage and secrecy pull David deeper into a world of divided loyalties.
Kidnapped is a fast-moving historical novel for readers who enjoy survival, suspense, and characters forced to grow up quickly. Its old-fashioned language may challenge you, but the story rewards close reading with daring escapes, tense choices, and a vivid sense of life on the run.
326 Pages
Little Soup
Little Soup's Bunny
Spring has sprung, and the Easter holiday is bringing a whole lot of fluffy trouble. Soup and his best friend Rob are absolutely thrilled to prepare for the big day. They have adopted an adorable baby bunny named Bucky who simply cannot get enough crunchy carrots. To make things even more exciting, the boys decide to dye their Easter eggs in every beautiful color of the rainbow. But as you might expect when Soup is in charge, putting all your eggs in one basket is a recipe for disaster. Before they know it, the boys find themselves surrounded by a very messy, incredibly yellow, and rather smelly situation. You will laugh out loud as Soup and Rob scramble to clean up their colorful catastrophe. This charming story captures the true joy of springtime adventures and the silly mistakes that make growing up so much fun.
69 Pages
Serafina
Serafina and the Black Cloak
Deep in the basement of the grand Biltmore Estate, Serafina and her father live completely hidden from the wealthy Vanderbilt family upstairs. Serafina spends her nights secretly prowling the darkened corridors, using hidden doors and secret passageways to explore the opulent mansion. She has always obeyed her father's strict warning to never venture into the surrounding forest. But when children staying at the estate suddenly begin to vanish, Serafina is the only one who knows the terrifying truth. A mysterious man in a black cloak is stalking the halls at night. After narrowly escaping his grasp, she teams up with Braeden Vanderbilt, the young nephew of the estate owners, to uncover the culprit's true identity. Their dangerous hunt leads them straight into the dark woods she was taught to fear, revealing a forgotten legacy of magic tied closely to her own past. You will be captivated as Serafina risks everything to stop the kidnappings, face a powerful enemy, and unlock the strange mystery of who she truly is.
304 Pages
CHERUB Graphic Novels
The Recruit
Graphic Novel
Following the sudden death of his mother, eleven-year-old James is separated from his sister and sent into the foster care system. He is a recognized troublemaker with a brilliant mind, a combination which quickly catches the attention of a top-secret organization known as CHERUB.
CHERUB employs highly trained spies under the age of seventeen to tackle sensitive intelligence missions where adult agents would immediately be spotted. Before James can officially join their elite ranks, he must survive one hundred grueling days of brutal basic training. From freezing nights in the wilderness to exhausting survival hikes, James is pushed far beyond his physical and mental limits.
Experience the explosive origin of a legendary teenage spy in this gripping graphic novel. The stunning artwork vividly brings the incredible danger, action, and intensity of James's first mission to life like never before.
354 Pages
Being the Adventures of a French Prisoner in England
A prisoner of war with a noble name, a quick wit, and a talent for trouble, St. Ives is not the sort of hero who stays quietly behind bars.
Set during the Napoleonic era, this classic novel follows the Chevalier de St. Ives after he is held in Scotland and drawn into a story of escape, identity, romance, and risk. Stevenson gives the adventure a lively, elegant voice, with danger never far from humor or charm.
For teen readers, St. Ives offers a more mature historical adventure: part prison-break tale, part social comedy, part romance. Its nineteenth-century style asks for patience, but the reward is a clever, spirited story about reinvention and survival.
452 Pages
Teresa is a kind and hardworking girl who suffers under the harsh treatment of her jealous stepmother and two selfish stepsisters, Isabel and Inez. Despite her miserable daily life, Teresa remains gentle and good. One day, her pure heart is rewarded when the Blessed Mary appears and places a shining gold star on Teresa's forehead as a symbol of her goodness. Furious and greedy, the stepsisters try to seek out their own rewards, but their unkind nature earns them a very different fate. Instead of stars, they are punished with hideous horns and donkey ears, forcing them to hide their faces under heavy veils. As a grand festival approaches, Teresa hopes to attend and finally experience a night of joy. Drawing on rich traditions from Spanish American folklore, this captivating retelling brings a fresh, magical twist to the beloved Cinderella story. It is a luminous tale of inner beauty, justice, and the shining rewards of staying true to yourself.
42 Pages
Kuplink, kuplank, kuplunk! That is the delightful sound of sweet, juicy blueberries dropping right into little Sal’s tin pail. She and her mother are spending a bright, sunny day on Blueberry Hill, picking fresh fruit to save for the cold winter months ahead.
But Sal isn't the only one who loves a tasty snack! On the very same hill, a furry mama bear and her little cub are also busy eating berries to prepare for their own long winter sleep. As Sal wanders off to explore, the two families accidentally get mixed up!
Will Sal's mother notice that the hungry little creature following her has paws instead of hands? And will the mama bear realize she has a little girl trailing behind her? This beloved, award-winning story is filled with gentle humor, beautiful Maine scenery, and a sweet, berry-filled adventure you will never forget.
64 Pages
Imagine looking out over the endless fields of Jailtown, Florida, knowing your entire future is already decided. For young Arly Poole, life in 1927 is tough and unforgiving. He is expected to become a field worker just like his father, working under the thumb of the cruel town boss, Captain Tant. The people in Jailtown never make enough money to leave, and Arly feels completely trapped in a cycle of exhausting labor. Everything changes when a fiercely determined schoolteacher arrives in town. She is tough, independent, and owes absolutely nothing to the wealthy bosses. When she takes Arly under her wing as her newest pupil, a whole new world of possibilities opens up before him. You will be captivated by Arly's journey as he discovers the life-changing power of education and the courage to dream beyond the fields. This deeply moving historical story explores themes of hope, resilience, and the quiet bravery it takes to forge your own path.
153 Pages
When your spaceship crash-lands in a cornfield, you know your quiet mission across the stars is officially over. That is exactly what happens to twelve-year-old Yo, whose completely fried technology leaves him stranded on the weirdest planet of all: Earth. Now, not only does he have to deal with aggressive chickens and cows that want to destroy his pride, but he also has to figure out the most confusing challenge in the galaxy. He has to survive middle school.
Armed with a glitchy translator and his trusty notebook, Yo documents every bizarre human habit he encounters. Why do humans eat sticky peanut butter that glues their mouths shut? Why do they go to a place called school for fun? Nothing makes sense until he meets Max, a curious human kid who is actually not afraid of him. Together, the two of them team up to repair the broken Galaxipod 3000 using only basic human tools, which leads to messy and explosive results.
Get ready for a hilarious science fiction adventure filled with alien observations and diary entries. You will discover the true meaning of friendship, the importance of curiosity, and how to find your place in the universe, no matter which planet you call home.
170 Pages
