Author Profile
Michael Sampson
10 Books
Michael Sampson is a prolific author and educator who creates rhythmic, engaging picture books for young children. He enjoyed a long and fruitful collaboration with his friend and fellow author Bill Martin Jr., co-writing popular favorites like Chicka Chicka 1, 2, 3 and The Little Squeegy Bug. His lively stories often use playful language and repetition to make reading a musical experience. He brings his background in education to crafting texts that support early literacy.
Step onto the crisp green grass and feel the roar of the stadium crowd. This is the story of a very important game, all starting with one perfectly thrown football. Watch the action unfold step by step, from the intense opening kickoff all the way to the final, thrilling touchdown pass. As the players run, block, and leap, the excitement builds with every single play. You will see how the entire team must work together perfectly to march down the field. With a catchy, repeating rhythm that builds like a cheering section, this energetic tale captures the magic and suspense of a championship game. It is a fast-paced sports adventure that brings the thrill of the gridiron right to your hands.
6-8 Years
32 Pages
Step outside and open your ears to the wild sounds echoing across the globe. From the deep green jungle to the high mountain peaks and right down to your own backyard, creatures of all shapes and sizes are talking. Listen closely to the squawks, hisses, growls, and roars that fill the air! This vibrant journey takes you around the world to meet amazing animals in their natural homes. You will learn how different animals communicate and explore the lively noises that make our planet so special. With rhythmic words and bright pages, this energetic exploration encourages young readers to pay attention to the wonderful wildlife chattering all around them.
6-8 Years
40 Pages
One hundred numbers are racing to the top of an apple tree, and they want you to come along. One and two have just begun to climb, followed closely by three and four. But there are a lot more numbers waiting for their turn. As the numbers count higher and higher, the branches get very crowded. Will there be enough room for everyone, or is the tree going to run out of space? In this lively counting book, you will meet numbers from one to one hundred as they scramble up the trunk. The catchy rhythm makes it fun to read out loud, while the bright colors bring every number to life. You will find yourself cheering for zero as he looks for his chance to join the fun. It is a fantastic way to practice counting all the way to one hundred while enjoying a playful and energetic story.
6-8 Years
40 Pages
A hungry little bear is finally waking up from a long, deep winter sleep. His belly is rumbling loudly, and he knows exactly what he needs to find: delicious, juicy berries! As he searches the forest for a tasty snack, something magical begins to happen. Every time he eats a different kind of berry, he discovers a brand new shade to paint his world. Follow along on his tasty journey as the forest transforms from quiet winter dullness into a bright, colorful wonderland. You will learn the name of every hue in the rainbow alongside this charming, snack-loving friend. It is a vibrant, joyful exploration that proves a good meal can make the whole world look a lot brighter.
6-8 Years
32 Pages
When the sun goes down and the woods get dark, the real adventure begins. Follow a curious, armored creature as he wakes up for his nightly romp through the shadows. While you are getting ready for sleep, this active armadillo is just starting his day! He digs, sniffs, and scurries through the brush, exploring the lively world of nighttime animals. You will bounce along to the rhythmic words as the armadillo goes about his busy night, rushing to finish his fun before the sun peeks over the horizon. This beautifully illustrated journey gives you a peek into the secret, bustling life of the creatures who only come out to play under the bright light of the moon.
6-8 Years
32 Pages
A little bug without a name or wings looks up at the sky and knows exactly what he wants to be. He is determined to become a buzzing, flying bumblebee! But finding the right pair of wings is harder than it looks. Join this determined little insect as he goes on an adventure to find his place in the world. Along the way, he discovers that sometimes you do not get exactly what you ask for, but you might just find something even better. This heartwarming story shows young readers the joy of finding your own special light. It is a wonderful tale of discovery, perfect for newly independent readers who love nature and tiny heroes.
6-8 Years
32 Pages
Wake up and get ready to move your feet! A sleepy little monkey absolutely refuses to get out of bed, and Mama is getting worried. When the doctor gets a call, the prescription is simple: this little monkey needs some serious exercise! Soon, the sleepyhead is up and moving, and you are invited to join the fun. Clap your hands, stomp your feet, and shake your hips along to the rhythmic beat. As the monkey learns a high-energy dance, you will discover the names of different body parts and get your own blood pumping. This hilarious, lively story is the perfect way to stretch, laugh, and start your morning with a giant burst of energy.
6-8 Years
40 Pages
High up in the branches of a tall tree, a group of furry friends is having a busy day. But when a curious dog wanders near their home, these ten little squirrels have to think fast! They must work together to come up with a clever plan to stay safe and hidden. Just when they think they have the perfect strategy, a sudden, loud sneeze changes everything. Count along from one to ten as you watch these quick-thinking critters scramble and plot. With bouncing rhymes and bright pictures, this playful adventure turns practicing numbers into a wild, suspenseful game. Get ready to find out if these smart squirrels can outwit their noisy neighborhood visitor!
6-8 Years
32 Pages
By
Bill Martin Jr. and Michael Sampson
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Based on work by
Francis Bellamy
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Pictures by
Chris Raschka
Have you ever wondered what the big words in the Pledge of Allegiance actually mean? Every morning in schools across the country, students stand up and recite this famous patriotic poem. But words like allegiance and indivisible can be tricky to understand.
This helpful guide breaks down the famous pledge word by word, making it easy to see exactly what you are saying when you place your hand over your heart. With fun, colorful artwork and simple explanations, the meaning behind the promise comes to life in a way that makes perfect sense.
You will learn about the history of the flag, the ideas of liberty and justice, and why this daily tradition is so important. It is an excellent read to help you truly understand and connect with the words you say every day at school.
6-8 Years
Climb into the driver's seat of an old car that knows how to go everywhere! This trusty vehicle does not just stay on the road. It bounces through the sticky mud, zooms over the high hills, and even splashes right into the water. It can fly up into the clouds and land safely back in the backyard. Driven by the lively imagination of a clever young boy, this noisy, bumpy ride is filled with action at every turn. You will find yourself singing along to the rhythmic beats and playful sounds as the car rumbles through its wild journey. It is a joyful, fast-paced read full of energy and engine noises that will keep you eagerly turning the pages.
6-8 Years
32 Pages
