Author Archives: Nancy O'Brien

Take a Deep Breath: Facing Back-to-School Anxiety

Posted on by

And just like that, summer vacation is coming to an end once again. After months of fun in the sun, it’s time for kids to head back into the classroom and kick off a new school year. Between new teachers, new classmates, and new coursework, it’s no surprise kids get overwhelmed about starting a new grade. Whether students are just starting kindergarten, moving up to middle school, or just don’t want to leave the comforts of home yet, SSHEL has plenty of books to help them feel less afraid and less alone. Back-to-school anxiety is incredibly common, and the characters in the books below sure understand how scary a new school year can be. Browse this list to help discover ways for students to discuss and cope with their anxieties.

To find more books about back-to-school anxiety or anxiety in general, use the library catalog to search subject terms like “anxiety” and “juvenile” or “school anxiety” and “juvenile.”

Boldt, Mike.
A Tiger Tail (Or What Happened to Anya on Her First Day of School). 2016.
The first day of school can be scary enough on its own, so when Anya wakes up sporting a striped tiger tail, she doesn’t know what to do. Will the other students make fun of her? Is she even allowed to go to school anymore? Should she just run away and join the circus? Find out what happens to Anya as she faces many new life challenges.
[SSHEL S-Collection Q. SE. B63772t]

Hartt-Sussman, Heather.
Noni is Nervous. 2013.
Noni worries about almost everything: global warming, making new friends, etc. She especially worries about attending the first day of school. When Noni makes a new, outgoing friend, however, she learns that friendship can help her feel more comfortable and help her control her anxiety.
[SSHEL S-Collection SE. H258nn]

Huber, Mike.
Mama’s Gloves. 2014.
Esteban loves doing fun activities at school, but he can’t help that he still misses his mom every day. He knows she’ll always pick him up from school with two kisses and a hug, but he doesn’t mind keeping her gloves with him during the day to remind him of her constant love.
[SSHEL S-Collection SE. H8624m]

Kraulis, Julie.
Whimsy’s Heavy Things. 2013.
Little Whimsy is constantly weighed down by her many anxieties. She tries to hide them in a tree, sweep them under the rug, and sail them off to the sea, but they always find a way to creep back into Whimsy’s life. After countless struggles, Whimsy learns ways to control her anxieties and even become inspired by them.
[SSHEL S-Collection SE. K867w]

Moss, Wendy.
School Made Easier: A Kid’s Guide to Study Strategies and Anxiety-Busting Tools. 2014.
If you’ve ever felt nervous before a big test, spent all night trying to finish last-minute assignments, developed butterflies in your stomach during a presentation, or felt overwhelming stress just trying to make it through the school day, this book is for you! Full of fun strategies to help cope with school stresses and anxieties, this book will become any student’s new best friend.
[SSHEL S-Collection S.371.30281 M855s]

Portis, Antoinette.
Kindergarten Diary. 2010.
When Annalina’s mom tells her she has to start “big kid” school, Annalina isn’t too happy about it. To help ease Annalina’s nerves, her mom suggests that she keep a diary about her time in kindergarten. By recording the ups and downs of her school days, Annalina realizes that kindergarten can actually be a fun place to attend.
[SSHEL S-Collection Q. SE. P836k]

Quakenbush, Robert.
First Grade Jitters. 2010.
A young boy explains everything he’s worried about regarding the first day of first grade. What if his friends from kindergarten aren’t in his class? What if his teacher speaks a totally different language? What if he’s supposed to already know arithmetic and spelling? With some reassurance from his friends, he lets his worries subside and actually gets excited to start a new grade.
[SSHEL S-Collection SE. Q21f2010]

Vail, Rachel.
Justin Case: School, Drool, and Other Daily Disasters. 2010.
Much to his dismay, Justin is about to start third grade. He is so not looking forward to starting school because he doesn’t have the teacher he wanted, he and his best friend aren’t in the same class, his little sister is starting kindergarten at his school, and he still can’t find his lost favorite stuffed animal. It’s all too much for one kid to handle. Join Justin as he navigates the new, daunting school year and learns that third grade might not actually be so scary.
[SSHEL S-Collection S. V1933ju]

Vivat, Booki.
Frazzled: Everyday Disasters and Impending Doom. 2016.
Abbie Wu is starting middle school and quickly spiraling into crisis mode. Her family just doesn’t get her and she seems to be the only one of her friends who doesn’t have a particular passion in life. Add to that the typical awkwardness of becoming a middle schooler and you’ve got the recipe for a perfect, pre-teen disaster. When trouble in the cafeteria sparks, however, Abbie discovers she just might have a knack for leadership after all.
[SSHEL S-Collection S. V837fr]

Wright, Michael.
Jake Starts School. 2008.
It’s Jake’s first day of school. Ever. And he’s pretty nervous to spend the entire day away from mom and dad. To help ease him into the life of a student, Jake’s parents sit with him in his classroom all day and watch the other students learning and playing. All three are worried that Jake will never be able to attend school alone, but Jake’s teacher has a few excellent tricks up her sleeve to coax him away from his parents.
[SSHEL S-Collection SE. W934ja]

Zuppardi, Sam.
Jack’s Worry. 2016.
Jack loves playing the trumpet and can’t stop practicing for his first ever concert. As the big day draws near, however, Jack starts feeling a looming presence in his life: a Worry. No matter where Jack goes, his Worry follows, and it just gets bigger and bigger until Jack finally learns how to destress and confidently face the fear of trying new things.
[SSHEL S-Collection SE. Z87j]

Travel Books and Guides for the Perfect Vacation (or Staycation)

Posted on by

Whether you’re planning a grand adventure this summer or snuggling in to your favorite couch at home, SSHEL has the perfect selection of travel books and guides that will let you explore new cities, states, and countries. From Ancient Rome to Paris to New York City, these travel guides and adventure books will help you discover the wonders of some of the most exciting cities in the world! Whether you want to get lost while sightseeing in a new city or get lost in a wonderful new book, these book selections are sure to entertain travelers far and wide.
To find more books about new cities and travelling, use search terms similar to “travel” and “juvenile” or “guide” and “juvenile.” You can search for books about specific cities and countries, too! Just remember to add the term “juvenile” to find children’s literature.
Bon voyage!

Barter, James.
A Travel Guide to Shakespeare’s London. 2003.
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to live in 16th Century London? Use this guide to learn about the best pubs, inns, shopping centers, and attractions to visit in Shakespeare’s London. Use the schedule of carriages to plan a trip to visit neighboring cities like Bath or Bristol.
[SSHEL S-Collection S.942.105 B281t]

Bowers, Viven.
Hey Canada! 2012.
Follow Alice, Cal, and Gran as they take a wild coast-to-coast road trip across Canada. The group of travelers visit every province, territory, and capital city in the country, and learn a ton of fun facts about every place they stop. Alice and Cal document their trip with blog posts, tweets, and comic strips about the history of the land.
[SSHEL S-Collection Q. S.971 B67h]

de Brunhoff, Laurent.
Babar’s Guide to Paris. 2017.
Babar’s daughter, Isabelle, is planning a trip to Paris, so Babar offers advice on how to navigate and best enjoy the dazzling French city. From choosing the right café to seeing Monet paintings in the Orangerie to enjoying a night at the opera, Babar helps Isabelle plan the perfect Parisian experience.
[SSHEL S-Collection Q. SE. B835bgp]

Egan, Tim.
Dodsworth in Tokyo. 2013.
Learn about Japanese customs while sightseeing in Tokyo with Dodsworth and his friend, the duck. See what mischief the duck gets himself into while visiting Yoyogi Park, the Tokya Tower, the Museum of the Imperial Collections, and much more. Will the duck behave himself enough to earn some wagashi, traditional Japanese desserts?
[SSHEL S-Collection SE. Eg14dt]

Falconer, Ian.
Olivia Goes to Venice. 2010.
Olivia’s family decides to take a spring vacation in Venice. Olivia quickly falls in love with the beautiful city (especially the gelato). From gondola rides to sightseeing to feeding pigeons, Olivia wears herself out exploring this city of canals.
[SSHEL S-Collection Q. SE. F1821olv]

Jakobsen, Kathy.
My New York. 2003.
Follow Becky and her best friend Martin around their favorite New York City sites. Get a true insider’s perspective on the bustling city that never sleeps. Becky takes you from her favorite ice-cream shop in Chinatown to her favorite step at the New York Public Library to Radio City Music Hall, the site of her first ever cab ride without her parents. You’ll feel like a true New Yorker by the time you finish this delightful book.
[SSHEL S-Collection S.974.7 J213m]

Jakobsen, Kathy.
My Washington, DC. 2016.
After travelling with them to New York, follow Becky and Martin to Washington DC and explore the grand monuments and buildings in our nation’s capital. Becky will show you the Library of Congress, the National Archives, the National Museum of History, the Lincoln Memorial, and so much more. You’ll learn fun facts about each monument as you travel through the city.
[SSHEL S-Collection Q. S.975.3 J213m]

Kimmelman, Leslie.
Everybody Says Shalom. 2015.
Filled with sparse text and beautiful images, this book lets you explore beautiful Israel while learning when and where to use the Hebrew greeting “Shalom.” A colorful and informative index of all of the locations shown is included in the back of the book.
[SSHEL S-Collection Q. S.915.69404 K571e]

Malam, John.
Ancient Rome. 2007.
Travel back 1,700 years and take in the ancient city of Rome when it was at the height of power. Learn where to stay, what food to eat, what clothes to wear, and what to do for fun. Be sure you stay out of trouble, however, because Roman law is strict and punishing. If you’re lucky, you might even get to meet a famous gladiator during your travels!
[SSHEL S-Collection S.937 M291a]

Rubbino, Salvatore.
A Walk in London. 2011.
Join the narrator and her mother on a walking tour of the exciting city of London. You’ll pass Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square, the Tower of London, and so much more! You’ll encounter museums, cafes, and local Londoners during your journey.
[SSHEL S-Collection Q. S.942.1 R821w]

Sasek, M.
This is Paris. 2004.
Travel through Paris while exploring the beautiful sites and sounds of the city. Wander through lush “jardins,” walk past the Eiffel Tower, and meet some local Parisians on your tour of one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Sasek’s classic children’s guide of Paris is updated with modern facts about the monuments and other features of the city.
[SSHEL S-Collection Q. S.914.4 Sa7t2004]

A Summer of Movement and Mindfulness

Posted on by

Summer vacation is a great time to finally relax from the stress of the school year. After a year of homework and tests, kids deserve a break. It’s easy to fall into a routine of playing video games and eating junk food, however, and no one wants to turn into a couch potato by the middle of June! Staying active during the summer months is crucial for mental and physical health, and it can be a great way to socialize with old and new friends. From joining a local sports club to going for walks on a beautiful summer evening to practicing indoor yoga when it’s a little too hot outside, staying active in the summer can be easy and fun! Check out the list of books below to help inspire your summer exercise goals. Your mind and body will thank you.
To find more children’s books about exercising or meditating, please use the online catalog and search subject terms similar to “exercise” and “juvenile” or “meditation” and “juvenile.” Happy searching!

Beliveau, Kathy.
The Yoga Game by the Sea. 2014.
Written in charming rhymes, each page offers readers a riddle to determine the next yoga pose. Full of delightful, “beachy” illustrations, this book teaches children easy and relaxing beginner yoga poses.
[SSHEL S-Collection SE. B4126y]

Burstein, John.
A Million Moves: Keeping Fit. 2008.
Follow Lucas as he attempts to get in shape for the President’s Challenge, a fitness test required by his school’s gym class. With the help of narrator “Slim Goodbody,” Lucas learns how to develop a healthy diet and live an active lifestyle. After exercising and strengthening his body for 10 weeks, Lucas is ready to complete the President’s Challenge.
[SSHEL S-Collection S.613.71 B949m]

Carle, Eric.
From Head to Toe. 1997.
Complete with Eric Carle’s signature illustrations, this book teaches children an early lesson on different parts of the body and how to move them to stay healthy. With the help of colorful animals that inspire fun exercises for kids, this book is a great way to teach kids the importance of exercising and adopting a healthy lifestyle early in life.
[SSHEL S-Collection Q. SE. C1922f]

Cronin, Doreen.
Stretch. 2009.
This book is a fun, whimsical read that introduces the concept of movement to young readers. By prompting readers to “stretch with me,” the book encourages children to keep their bodies active and flexible.
[SSHEL S-Collection SE. C8811st]

Holsonback, Anita.
Monkey See, Monkey Do: An Animal Exercise Book for You! 1997.
While reading fun rhymes about different animals in the wild, readers are prompted to mimic each animal’s signature move. Whether you stomp like an elephant or hop like a frog, this book is sure to entertain while getting your blood flowing.
[SSHEL S-Collection Q.SE. H741V:E]

Maze, Stephanie.
Keeping Fit from A to Z = Mantente en Forma de la A a la Z. 2014.
Follow along with the alphabet and learn English and Spanish vocabulary focused on fun activities for all ages and interests. Both languages are equally presented alongside colorful pictures of each activity. Examples of fun indoor and outdoor games are included in the back of the book.
[SSHEL S-Collection Q. S.613.7042 K255]

Murphy, Stuart J.
Happy, Healthy Ajay. 2012.
Ajay wants to become healthier and stronger so he can keep up with his friends while playing tag. He learns that eating healthy snacks and meals, playing outside for exercise, and drinking lots of water help him feel healthier and happier.
[SSHEL S-Collection SE. M957ha]

Pittar, Gill.
Milly, Molly and the Tree Hut. 2003.
Milly and Molly’s friend Maxter spends all of his time watching TV. One day, his mother shoos him outside so that he can get some much-needed exercise, but Maxter doesn’t know how to exercise. Milly and Molly convince him to build a tree house in his backyard, and once he sees how fun the project is, Maxter realizes he doesn’t want to waste his time watching TV anymore.
[SSHEL S-Collection SE. P686mt]

Rockwell, Lizzy.
The Busy Body Book: A Kid’s Guide to Fitness. 2004.
By celebrating the amazing things the human body can do, this book teaches children about the different components and functions of the body, like the skeletal, muscular, and digestive systems. This book promotes play, exercise, adequate water intake, and rest.
[SSHEL S-Collection Q. S.612 R594b]

Russo, Brian.
Yoga Bunny. 2017.
Bunny tries to convince his friends to practice yoga with him, but they’re all too busy. Bunny doesn’t let this deter him, however, and continues his deep breathing and yoga poses. As his friends see how relaxed Bunny looks, they decide to give yoga a try after all.
[SSHEL S-Collection SE. R9216y]

Stewart, Whitney.
Meditation is an Open Sky: Mindfulness for Kids. 2015.
This wonderful book teaches kids different meditation practices for different scenarios and feelings. If you’re feeling distracted, look for the meditation practice about focus and clarity. If you’re feeling upset, use the practice for controlling “bursting emotions” and help calm your mind. This book acts as a reassuring friend who offers great advice on how to become more relaxed and mindful.
[SSHEL S-Collection S.158.12 St499m]

Van Genechten, Guido.
Max Exercises. 2008.
Max leads his group of friends in some fun outdoor exercises. Starting with basic stretches and ending with an impressive pyramid, Max and his friends learn that being active together is a great way to stay healthy and have fun.
[SSHEL S-Collection SE. G286m:E]

I Can’t Eat That! Promoting National Food Allergy Awareness Week

Posted on by

The week of May 14th-20th marks the 20th Food Allergy Awareness Week started by Food Allergy Research Education (FARE). To raise awareness of the growing issue of food allergy developments, especially in young children, the list of books below offers delicious, allergy-free recipes and fun, relatable stories that teach kids and adults alike how to safely offer an inclusive food environment at schools, parties, and community gatherings. Between gluten, dairy, nut, soy, and many other food allergies, kids can find it difficult and frustrating to live with such restrictions on their diets. Thankfully, awareness of these allergies is growing and more companies and restaurants are creating products, cookbooks, and meals that help accommodate all diets. Whether you have a child with a food allergy or you’re simply hoping to learn more about them, the list of books below will help educate and hopefully inspire you to raise awareness and make the culinary world a more inclusive place for everyone.

Corn, Tori.
Dixie Wants an Allergy. 2014.
On Dixie’s first day of school, she learns about her fellow classmate’s various food allergies. One classmate gets to order special meals at restaurants due to her wheat allergy. Another student talks about his trip to the emergency room when he accidentally ingested dairy. Dixie becomes jealous of the special treatment these students receive and wishes she could have a food allergy, too, but she soon learns that food allergies certainly aren’t always fun to live with.
[SSHEL S-Collection SE. C8143di]

Fliess, Sue.
A Gluten-Free Birthday for Me! 2013.
A birthday party isn’t complete without cake, but what happens when the birthday girl is allergic to gluten? The birthday girl and her mother don’t see this as a problem at all and make a delicious gluten-free chocolate cookie-crumble cake that can be enjoyed by everyone.
[SSHEL S-Collection SE. F643g]

Gleeson, Erin.
The Forest Feast for Kids: Colorful Vegetarian Recipes that are Simple to Make. 2016.
Written by best-selling author Erin Gleeson, this gorgeously illustrated cookbook offers simple and delicious vegetarian recipes for kids. Complete with beautiful watercolors hand painted by the author and recipes based on a wholesome, plant-based diet, this cookbook is sure to please any vegetarian chef.
[SSHEL S-Collection Q. S.641.5636 G479f]

Gordon, Sherri Mabry.
Peanut Butter, Milk, and Other Deadly Threats: What You Should Know About Food Allergies. 2006.
This book offers explanations and first-person accounts of common food allergies that affect more than 11 million people in the United States. From peanut to milk to wheat allergies, the book offers helpful advice, warnings, and support for those afflicted by or parents of children afflicted by a food allergy.
[SSHEL S-Collection S.616.975 G658p]

Howe, James.
Horace and Morris Say Cheese (Which Makes Dolores Sneeze!). 2009.
Dolores and her friends enjoy spending time doing what they love most: eating cheese! But one day, Dolores has an allergic reaction and discovers that she can no longer eat cheese. Deeply upset, Dolores struggles to find new foods that can replace the cheese she so dearly loves. She soon discovers a knack for creating new, cheese-less recipes that teach her to enjoy eating again.
[SSHEL S-Collection SE. H838hor]

Koster, Gloria.
The Peanut-Free Café. 2006.
For Simon and most of the students at Nutley School, peanut butter is a staple during lunchtime. But when new student Grant shows up to Nutley and explains his peanut allergy, problems arise. The students decide to open a “Peanut-Free Café” to include Grant during lunchtime and learn that there’s more to life than peanut butter.
[SSHEL S-Collection Q. SE. K8481p]

Kruszka, Bonnie J.
Eating Gluten-Free with Emily: A Story for Children with Celiac Disease. 2004.
Emily, a five-year-old girl, starts feeling pain and discomfort whenever she eats, but she can’t understand why. She is soon diagnosed with Celiac Disease and learns what living a “gluten-free lifestyle” means. Though she finds the new diet challenging at times, Emily learns how to enjoy gluten-free food, how to express her frustrations with her parents, and how to continue enjoying her life as a fun-loving girl who just happens to have some dietary restrictions.
[SSHEL S-Collection S. K946e]

Miller, Edward.
The Monster Health Book: A Guide to Eating Healthy, Being Active & Feeling Great for Monsters & Kids! 2006.
With a charming monster as its main character, this book helps teach kids the importance of eating healthy and staying active. By explaining the food pyramid, healthy alternatives to junk food, common food allergies, and healthy body image, this book is the perfect guide to help kids adopt a healthy lifestyle.
[SSHEL S-Collection Q. S.613.7 M613m]

Ware, Cheryl.
Venola the Vegetarian. 2008.
Seventh grader Venola is already starting her year with some big changes: her mom is pregnant, her role model is sick, and a particularly eye-opening science class inspires her to become a vegetarian. Venola navigates middle school as best as she can and teaches herself how to prepare healthy, delicious vegetarian meals for herself and her growing family.
[SSHEL S-Collection S. W22v]

Zevy, Aaron.
No Nuts for Me. 1995.
Follow young Noah around during a typical week of school, shopping with mom, and attending a friend’s birthday party. As you learn about his life, you’ll also learn about his nut allergy. Noah explains to readers that he has to be very careful about the food he eats and he always carries his EpiPen with him. His assures the reader that his allergy doesn’t stop him from having fun, though!
[SSHEL S-Collection S.616.975 Z61N]

The Show Must Go On! Actors, Musicians, and Other Creative Folks

Posted on by

In the midst of Hollywood’s award season, it’s easy to get wrapped up in the glitz and glamour of famous stars. Famous actors and actresses walk the red carpet in beautiful designer outfits. Famous musicians put on spectacular shows during Grammy performances, sold-out concerts, and Super Bowl half-time shows. Famous authors and painters might not always get as much time in the limelight, but they still produce entertaining and thoughtful pieces of literature and art. If you’ve ever wondered how these famous people got started, look no further! Browse the list of books below to discover the humble beginnings and fascinating inspirations of some of the world’s greatest artists.

To find more children’s books about famous artists, please use our online catalog and search subject terms similar to “artists” and “juvenile” or “musicians” and “juvenile” in the advanced search boxes. Feel free to use whatever artistic career you’re interested in and see what inspiring books you find in our S-Collection.

Actors and Actresses

Cardillo, Margaret.
Just Being Audrey. 2011.
This enchanting tale features colorful illustrations that truly bring to life the tale of Audrey Hepburn’s journey to fame. With childhood dreams of becoming Europe’s top ballerina, Audrey is faced with a multitude of road blocks that lead her to the world of acting instead. An incredibly delightful read.
[SSHEL S-Collection SB. H5292c]

Michelson, Richard.
Fascinating: The Life of Leonard Nimoy. 2016.
True to its title, this book tells the fascinating life of Leonard Nimoy and his journey to starring in one of the most popular television shows of all time: Star Trek. From a young age, Nimoy loved to perform, but his parents wanted him to set his sights on a more practical career, like becoming a musician. Nimoy never quit on his dream and did everything in his power to reach the stardom he always knew he was capable of achieving.
[SSHEL S-Collection Q. SB. N713m]

Yoo, Paula.
Shining Star: The Anna May Wong Story. 2009.
An inspiring story of how famous actress Anna May Wong overcame racism and adversity in Hollywood to proudly represent people of Asian descent on film. Disgusted with being cast in stereotypical roles and watching white actors perform in “yellow face,” Anna May Wong moves from California to China to act in roles that respectfully and truthfully represent her culture.
[SSHEL S-Collection Q. SB. W84y]

Artists

Herkert, Barbara.
Mary Cassatt: Extraordinary Impressionist Painter. 2015.
With simple text and beautiful impressionist-style illustrations, this book dives into the life of Mary Cassatt, a champion for female empowerment in the art world. Overcoming adversity as a woman in the 1800s, Mary proves that anyone can create beautiful, inspiring art.
[SSHEL S-Collection Q. SB. C343h]

Rubin, Susan Goldman.
Andy Warhol: Pop Art Painter. 2006.
Full of bold colors, family photographs, and pictures of Andy’s art, this book tells the story of Andy Warhol’s life, from a young boy from Pittsburgh who loved to draw to the wildly famous, eccentric artist who turned a Campbell’s soup can into a world-renowned painting.
[SSHEL S-Collection SB. W275r]

Rubin, Susan Goldman.
Edward Hopper: Painter of Light and Shadow. 2007.
The story of famous artist Edward Hopper’s life and maturation as an artist in the early half of 20th Century America. Each page includes pictures of Hopper’s drawings and paintings, starting from his earliest sketches to his most famous painting, Nighthawks.
[SSHEL S-Collection Q. SB. H798r]

Winter, Jonah.
Frida. 2002.
The inspiring story of Frida Khalo’s incredible resilience. After suffering from a bus accident that nearly killed her, Frida endured the constant pain that enveloped her body by escaping through her art. As the daughter of a photographer and painter, Frida learned a love of art from her father and let her imagination lead her life. A simple yet beautiful read.
[SSHEL S-Collection Q. S. 759.972 W734f]

Musicians

Golio, Gary.
When Bob Met Woody: The Story of the Young Bob Dylan. 2011.
A story that proves the truly life-changing effects of folk music. Whenever he felt alone or sad, Bob Dylan channeled his emotions into the music he listened to and performed. Never deterred by his humble beginnings, Bob strove to make his idol, Hank Williams, proud by singing songs about the honest struggles of life. Complete with quotes from Bob and stunning illustrations throughout.
[SSHEL S-Collection Q. SB. D996g]

Reich, Susanna.
Fab Four Friends: The Boys Who Became the Beatles. 2015.
With space dedicated to each of the member’s childhoods and backgrounds, this book tells the story of how the Beatles let their shared passion for music change the history of the music scene forever. An incredibly interesting read for anyone who loves these British icons.
[SSHEL S-Collection Q. S.782.421660922 R2711f]

Russell-Brown, Katheryn.
Little Melba and Her Big Trombone. 2014.
A bright and colorful tale of Melba Liston’s journey to stardom as a female trombone player. As a little girl, Melba loved jazz music and knew she was meant to play the trombone. She gracefully overcame racist and sexist comments that people directed toward her for being a black woman touring the country in a jazz band. She let her voice be heard through her trombone and played along fellow famous musicians across the world.
[SSHEL S-Collection Q. SB. L698r]

Winter, Jonah.
How Jelly Roll Morton Invented Jazz. 2015.
A magical telling of the life and accomplishments of Ferdinand Joseph La Menthe (famously known as Jelly Roll Morton). Complete with song lyrics, a “recipe for jazz,” and an inviting second-person narration, the story of this “father of jazz” is a true delight.
[SSHEL S-Collection Q. SB. M889w]

Writers

Burleigh, Robert.
Langston’s Train Ride. 2004.
Written in first-person point of view, this beautiful story lets readers enter the mind of a young Langston Hughes as he finds inspiration for his famous poem, “The Negro Speaks of Rivers.” With stunning visual and verbal artistry throughout, this book offers a unique look at this famous poet’s early life and works.
[SSHEL S-Collection Q. SB. L285b]

Krull, Kathleen.
Road to Oz: Twists, Turns, Bumps, and Triumphs in the Life of L. Frank Baum. 2008.
A dazzling tale of L. Frank Baum’s life, starting from his golden childhood to the everyday adventures he found as inspiration while writing his best-selling children’s book, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. A great story that reminds you to always keep a sense of wonder and a love for adventure.
[SSHEL S-Collection Q. SB. B327k]

Landmann, Bimba.
In Search of the Little Prince: The Story of Antoine de Saint-Exupéry. 2014.
A lovely telling of Antoine de Saint-Exupery’s remarkable life as an adventurous, daring pilot and author. As a young boy, Antoine was fascinated by airplanes and the ability to fly, so he dedicated his life to becoming a pilot. From fighting in both world wars to transporting international mail to writing about his terrific adventures, Antoine lived his life to the absolute fullest.
[SSHEL S-Collection Q. SB. S137l]

Wallner, Alexandra.
Beatrix Potter. 1995.
From playing with her family’s pet rabbit, Peter, to becoming England’s self-professed expert on mushrooms, Beatrix surrounded herself with nature and loved to write about and paint her surroundings. As a woman in the late 19th to early 20th Century, however, Beatrix faced a lot of sexist critics who didn’t take her writing seriously. Beatrix was never deterred, however, and she went on to write dozens of delightful children’s stories that are still loved today.
[SSHEL S-Collection SB. P866w]

America’s Road to Freedom

Posted on by

It seems as though no matter where you turn nowadays, you encounter a new controversial article, news segment, or social media post about American politics. From the current state of unrest in the American political system to the craze surrounding the hit Broadway musical Hamilton, the concept of freedom in America is at the forefront of many people’s minds. But just how did we acquire our freedom? What monumental decisions did our founding fathers have to make in order to create the very first ideals of “the American dream?” And, most importantly, how have these actions and ideals survived and adapted to the America we know today?

Books on the topic of American freedom and government can be found by searching the online catalog using subject terms similar to “politics and government” and “juvenile” or “United States Constitution” and “juvenile” in the advanced search boxes.

Explore the list of books below to learn more about America’s rocky and resilient journey to freedom.

The Founding Fathers

Fritz, Jean.
Alexander Hamilton: The Outsider. 2011.
The fascinating story of Alexander Hamilton’s life, death, and influence on the creation of America’s government is told in this chapter book. A great read for Hamilton fans or anyone interested in the founding father’s fraught life.
[SSHEL S Collection SB.H217f]

Fritz, Jean.
Shh! We’re Writing the Constitution. 1987.
Complemented by colorful illustrations, the story of the Constitution’s creation is told. Important names, dates, and Congressional debates are highlighted throughout.
[SSHEL S Collection S.342.7302 F919S]

Mack, Stan.
Taxes, the Tea Party, and those Revolting Rebels: A History in Comics of the American Revolution. 2012.
This fun book of comic strips follows America’s path from its earliest revolts for freedom to its emergence as an independent country. The engaging format helps make America’s complicated history exciting and accessible for readers of any age.
[SSHEL S Collection S.973.3 M1901t]

Weidner, Daniel.
Creating the Constitution: The People and Events that Formed the Nation. 2002.
Beginning with the weaknesses of the Article of Confederation, this book discusses the various governmental plans and concepts that led to the Constitution’s creation. It delves into descriptions and explanations of each Constitutional amendment.
[SSHEL S Collection S.342.73029 W426c]

The Declaration of Independence

Nardo, Don.
The Declaration of Independence. 2003.
With brief entries about key protests and meetings leading up to America’s freedom, this book offers a highly informative summary of the Declaration of Independence’s creation.
[SSHEL S Collection S.973.3 N166d]

Pierce, Alan.
The Declaration of Independence. 2005.
Filled with historic paintings and political cartoons, this book follows the events that led to America’s rebellion for freedom, Jefferson’s influence on the important document, and the continued legacy of the Declaration of Independence.
[SSHEL S Collection S.973.313 P611d]

St. George, Judith.
The Journey of the One and Only Declaration of Independence. 2005.
A colorful and interactive book that prompts the reader with questions about the Declaration of Independence’s history throughout the story. An incredibly informative adventure awaits all readers.
[SSHEL S Collection Q. S.973.3 St103j]

Yero, Judith Lloyd.
The Declaration of Independence. 2006.
Striking images stand out in this detailed book about America’s journey to freedom and the document that paved the way to a free nation. It includes the Declaration of Independence’s influence on civil rights movements throughout the country’s history. Thomas Jefferson’s rough draft of the declaration is included in the back.
[SSHEL S Collection S.973.313 Y45d]

The Constitution

Catrow, David.
We the Kids: The Preamble to the Constitution of the United States. 2002.
Colorful, creative, and full of wonder, this book incorporates the preamble of the Constitution into a story about a group of children going on a camping trip. A perfect introduction to the Constitution.
[SSHEL S Collection S.342.7302 C293w]

Finkelman, Paul.
The Constitution. 2006.
Part of National Geographic’s American Documents series, this book explains the history, structure, and continuing influence of the Constitution on America’s past and present government. A glossary of important terms and the entire Constitution are included.
[SSHEL S Collection S.342.7302 F495c]

Sobel, Syl.
The U.S. Constitution and You. 2012.
This book acts as a brief, easy-to-read reference book for anyone interested in the Constitution’s contents and the inner-workings of the U.S. government.
[SSHEL S Collection S.342.7302 So121u]

Spier, Peter.
We the People: The Constitution of the United States. 2014.
The preamble of the Constitution is beautifully woven throughout colorful drawings of America’s past and present. The second half of this book offers information explaining the creation of the Constitution. The entire Constitution is included in the very back of the book.
[SSHEL S Collection S.342.73029 Sp44wc2014]

Travis, Cathy.
Constitution: Translated for Kids. 2006.
This book is filled with kid-friendly explanations of each individual article and amendment. Lists of important vocabulary words and definitions are included throughout. This is a great source for anyone interested in better understanding the often complicated language of the Constitution.
[SSHEL S Collection S.342.7302 T698c]

American Freedom Today

Granfield, Linda.
America Votes: How Our President is Elected. 2003.
A history and explanation of voters’ rights, campaign vocabulary, the Electoral College, and election procedures. A great introduction to America’s unique voting process.
[SSHEL S Collection S.324.6 G765a]

Grodin, Elizabeth.
D is for Democracy: A Citizen’s Alphabet. 2004.
An incredibly comprehensive guide for learning about America’s democratic government. This book uses the alphabet to highlight important people, events, and functions of America’s history and government.
[SSHEL S Collection Q. S.320.973 G892d]

Maestro, Betsy.
The Voice of the People: American Democracy in Action. 1996.
Another great guide for learning about America’s government, democratic values, and entire political system. Specific information about the inner-workings of Congress, national conventions, primaries, elections, and presidential duties are included.
[SSHEL S Collection Q. S.324.973 M268V]

Myers, Walter Dean.
We are America: A Tribute from the Heart. 2011.
A beautiful tale of America’s fraught history and present diverse culture written in poetic verse and interspersed with meaningful quotes from prominent figures in American history. A truly relevant and effective read.
[SSHEL S Collection Q. S.811.54 M9929w]

Raczka, Bob.
The Art of Freedom: How Artists See America. 2008.
Featuring images of paintings, photographs, statues, and artifacts, this inspiring book highlights important ideals, places, and past-times that make up America’s diverse and ever-changing atmosphere.
[SSHEL S Collection S.704.9 R115a]

Stories Without Words

Posted on by

We often tell people that actions speak louder than words or that a picture is worth a thousand words. Wordless books are a clear example of how stories can be told without words. These books can be used with children and youth to encourage them to think critically about what is happening in the story and make their own observations.

Some authors who have created multiple wordless picture books include: Lena Anderson, Mitsumasa Anno, Peter Collington, Alexandra Day, Tomie DePaola, John S. Goodall, Tana Hoban, Fernando Krahn, Barbara Lehman, Leo Lionni, Mercer Mayer, Helen Oxenbury, Peter Spier, Nancy Tafuri, and David Wiesner.

Additional lists of wordless books can be found in the School Collection guide for wordless books or the online catalog can be searched for the subject “stories without words.”

Below are a few wordless books that might just spark a conversation, or some giggles, with a child.

Wordless books

Colon, Raul.
Draw! 2014.
In this wordless picture book, a boy who is confined to his room fills his sketch pad with lions and elephants, then imagines himself on a safari.
[SSHEL S Collection Q. SE. C718d]

Guojing.
The Only Child. 2015.
A little girl, lost and alone, follows a mysterious stag deep into the woods, and, like Alice down the rabbit hole, she finds herself in a strange and wondrous world. But… home and family are very far away. How will she get back there? Guojing’s story shows one aspect of growing up under China’s one-child policy.
[SSHEL S Collection Q. SE. G9592o]

Hegbrook, Thomas.
Nature. 2016.
Explore the beauty and wonder of nature in this wordless picture book — and let your imagination bring everything to life! Stunning artwork captures the lives of a variety of animals and bugs in their natural surroundings and the changes that occur as they endure the passage of time, from birth to adulthood, winter to autumn, and more.
[SSHEL S Collection Q. S.578 H3617n]

Newgarden, Mark and Megan Montague Cash.
Bow-Wow’s Nightmare Neighbors. 2014.
As Bow-Wow naps, his neighbors creep in and steal his cozy green bed. When the expressive pup tries to get it back, colorful chaos ensues as the house next door might not be exactly what he thought.
[SSHEL S Collection and CCB SE. N45bn]

Nolan, Dennis.
Hunters of the Great Forest. 2014.
On a warm night, a band of hunters sets out on a journey. As they travel over hills, through thickets of trees, and around mountains, nothing will keep them from their ultimate goal. What that goal is may surprise you.
[SSHEL S Collection and CCB Q. SE. N71h]

Nordling, Lee and Meritxell Bosch.
BirdCatDog: a graphic novel. 2014.
Tells the story of a bird, a cat, and a dog through wordless comics. Everyone is a hero in his own story and every story is connected.
[SSHEL S Collection S.741.5973 N758bi]

Slater, David Michael
The Boy & the Book: a Wordless Story. 2015.
In this wordless story, a library book tries desperately to evade the destructive clutches of a little boy. What drives the Boy, however, is enthusiasm and love — not malice — and the Book eventually responds in kind, accepting his rough but worthy fate.
[SSHEL S Collection Q. SE. Sl151bo]

Thomson, Bill.
Chalk. 2010.
A wordless picture book about three children who go to a park on a rainy day, find some magical chalk, and draw pictures that come to life.
[SSHEL S Collection Q. SE. T3824c]

Zagarenski, Pamela.
The Whisper. 2015.
Step inside the pages of a little girl’s magical book as she discovers the profound and inspiring notion that we each bring something different to the same story.
[SSHEL S Collection Q. SE. Z133w]

Fairy Tales Retold

Posted on by

Fairy tales have been retold through various cultures and mediums for generations. Contemporary retellers of fairy tales mix fantasy and realism, fleshing out characters and exposing new ideas. These tales build on traditional fairy tales to create new works of fantasy. This list is organized by tale, including stories with a variety of fairy tale references.

Retellings of Multiple Fairy Tales

Beck, Ian.
The Secret History of Tom Trueheart. 2007.
When young Tom Trueheart’s seven older brothers all go missing during their adventures in the Land of Stories, he embarks on a perilous mission to save them and to capture the rogue story-writer who wants to do away with the heroes. Their adventures involve Snow White, Rapunzel, Cinderella, and more.
[SSHEL S Collection S. B3884s]

Blubaugh, Penny.
Serendipity Market. 2009.
When the world begins to seem unbalanced, Mama Inez calls ten storytellers to the Serendipity Market and, through the power of their magical tales, the balance of the world is corrected once again. The tales include re-tellings of The Princess and the Pea, Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Jack and the Beanstalk and more.
[SSHEL S Collection S. B624s]

Buckley, Michael.
The Fairy-Tale Detectives. 2005.
Orphans Sabrina and Daphne Grimm are sent to live with an eccentric grandmother that they have always believed to be dead. They solve crimes involving the Everafters, the magical creatures and people of fairy tales and fantasy, who are trapped in their town. The Sisters Grimm appear in many sequels: book two is titled The Unusual Suspects.
[SSHEL S Collection S. B856s]

Durst, Sarah Beth.
Into the Wild. 2007.
Having escaped from the Wild and the preordained fairy tale plots it imposes, Rapunzel, along with her daughter Julie Marchen, tries to live a fairly normal life, but when the Wild breaks free and takes over their town, it is Julie who has to prevent everyone from being trapped in the events of a story. In sequel Out of the Wild, Julie again protects her world from a dark force using her naïve father for evil.
[SSHEL S Collection and CCB S. D939i]

Gruber, Michael.
The Witch’s Boy. 2005.
Lump is a foundling, raised by a witch and her strange friends. But when he is cruelly treated by the people of the outside world, he turns against his mother. Only through tragedy and pain does he come to accept himself and learn his heart’s desire. Elements of fairy tales, including Rumpelstiltskin and Hansel and Gretel are incorporated throughout the story.
[SSHEL S Collection S. G921w]

Maguire, Gregory.
The Dream Stealer. 1983.
This fantasy combines elements from several Russian fairy tales, including the magical Firebird, Baba Yaga the witch, and the beautiful Vasilissa.
[SSHEL S Collection S. M276d]

Beauty and the Beast

Baratz-Logsted, Lauren.
Crazy Beautiful. 2009.
In this contemporary retelling of “Beauty and the Beast,” a teenaged boy whose hands were amputated in an explosion and a gorgeous girl whose mother has recently died form an instant connection when they meet on their first day as new students.
[SSHEL S Collection S. B2319c]

Jay, Stacey.
Of Beast and Beauty. 2013.
When nineteen-year-old Gem of the Desert People, called “Monstrous” by the Smooth Skins, becomes the prisoner of the seventeen-year-old Smooth Skin queen, Isra, age-old prejudices begin to fall aside as the two begin to understand each other.
[SSHEL S Collection and CCB S. J333o]

McKinley, Robin.
Rose Daughter. 1997.
McKinley’s second retelling of Beauty and the Beast, with a very different ending from the traditional story.
[SSHEL S Collection and CCB S. M2152r]

McKinley, Robin.
Beauty: A Retelling of the Story of Beauty and the Beast. 1978.
This retelling follows the traditional plot while fleshing out the characters and bringing new life to the fairy tale.
[SSHEL S Collection and CCB S.M2152B]

Napoli, Donna Jo.
Beast. 2000.
Set in Persia, this is the story of the Beast before Beauty arrives as well as the traditional plot of their tale.
[SSHEL S Collection and CCB S. N162be]

Cinderella

Ensor, Barbara.
Cinderella (as if you didn’t already know the story). 2006.
In this updated version of the Cinderella story, Cinderella writes letters to her dead mother apologizing for not being more assertive, which she remedies soon after marrying the prince. Readers will delight in following Cinderella through all the usual happenings, presented in a most unusual way.
[SSHEL S Collection and CCB S.398.2 En79c]

Farjeon, Eleanor.
The Glass Slipper. 1956.
This novel length retelling of Cinderella adds new elements while retaining the classic plot of a young girl who dreams of attending a ball.
[SSHEL S Collection S. F228G]

Haddix, Margaret Peterson.
Just Ella. 1999.
Ella has gotten her fairy tale ending and her prince; but is that truly what she wants? A continuation of the story of Cinderella.
[SSHEL S Collection S. H1172j]

Levine, Gail Carson.
Ella Enchanted. 1997.
Why was Cinderella so good and obedient? In Levine’s retelling, Ella is under a curse, forcing her to be obedient to everyone; even her wicked stepmother and her nasty stepsisters. Will the prince rescue her from her miserable family? Or will Ella rescue herself from the curse of obedience?
[SSHEL S Collection and CCB S. L5788E]

Lo, Malinda.
Ash. 2009.
In this variation on the Cinderella story, Ash grows up believing in the fairy realm that the king and his philosophers have sought to suppress, until one day she must choose between a handsome fairy cursed to love her and the King’s Huntress whom she loves.
[SSHEL S Collection and CCB S. L7804a]

Marriott, Zoe.
Shadows on the Moon. 2012.
Trained in the magical art of shadow-weaving, sixteen-year-old Suzume, who is able to re-create herself in any form, is destined to use her skills to steal the heart of a prince in a revenge plot.
[SSHEL S Collection and CCB S. M349sm]

Meyer, Marissa.
Cinder. 2012.
As plague ravages the overcrowded Earth, observed by a ruthless lunar people, Cinder, a gifted mechanic and cyborg, becomes involved with handsome Prince Kai and must uncover secrets about her past in order to protect the world in this futuristic take on the Cinderella story. The Lunar Chronicles also include Scarlet, Cress, and Winter.
[SSHEL S Collection and CCB S. M57572c]

Napoli, Donna Jo.
Bound. 2004.
This retelling is based on Chinese Cinderella stories. When Xing Xing’s stepmother binds only her own daughter’s feet, she cuts Xing Xing off from a suitable marriage. Bound to a life of servitude, Xing Xing must eventually break free of her stepmother’s power and make a new life for herself.
[SSHEL S Collection and CCB S. N162b]

Pullman, Philip.
I Was a Rat! 2000.
When Cinderella flees from the castle, she leaves one of her transformed page boys behind. He and the princess must both adjust to their new worlds.
[SSHEL S Collection and CCB S. N162b 2000]

East of the Sun and West of the Moon

Durst, Sarah Beth.
Ice. 2009.
A modern-day retelling of “East o’ the Sun, West o’ the Moon” in which eighteen-year-old Cassie learns that her grandmother’s fairy tale is true when a Polar Bear King comes to claim her for his bride and she must decide whether to go with him and save her long-lost mother, or continue helping her father with his research.
[SSHEL S Collection S. D939ic]

George, Jessica Day.
Sun and Moon, Ice and Snow. 2008.
A girl travels east of the sun and west of the moon to free her beloved prince from a magic spell.
[SSHEL S Collection and CCB S. G2935s]

Pattou, Edith.
East. 2003.
This retelling is based on the Norse tale, East of the Sun and West of the Moon but also includes elements of the better-known Beauty and the Beast. Set in the Arctic lands, this is a fantastical epic with strong characters.
[SSHEL S Collection S. P2784e]

Little Red Riding Hood

Vande Velde, Vivian.
Cloaked in Red. 2010.
Presents eight twists on the traditional tale of Little Red Riding Hood, exploring such issues as why most characters seem dim-witted and what, exactly, is the theme.
[SSHEL S Collection and CCB S. V28cl]

Weston, Robert Paul.
Dust City. 2010.
Henry Whelp, son of the Big Bad Wolf, investigates what happened to the fairies that used to protect humans and animalia, and what role the corporation that manufactures synthetic fairy dust played in his father’s crime.
[SSHEL S Collection S. W5283d]

Sleeping Beauty

Baker, E.D.
The Wide-Awake Princess. 2010.
Annie, younger sister of the princess who would be known as Sleeping Beauty, is immune to magic and stays awake when the rest of the castle falls into an enchanted sleep, then sets out to find a way to break the spell.
[SSHEL S Collection S. B1712w]

Hale, Bruce.
Snoring Beauty. 2008.
An adaptation of the traditional tale, featuring a sleeping, snoring princess who is rescued by a prince after being cursed by a bad fairy.
[SSHEL S Collection Q. S. 398.2H13s]

Lowe, Helen.
Thornspell. 2008.
In this elaboration of “Sleeping Beauty,” Prince Sigismund, having grown up in a remote castle dreaming of going on knightly quests, has had only a passing interest in the forbidden wood lying beyond the castle gates until a brief encounter with a beautiful and mysterious lady changes his life forever.
[SSHEL S Collection S. L95142t]

McKinley, Robin.
Spindle’s End. 2000.
When Briar Rose is cursed by the evil Pernicia, a young fairy takes her away to be raised safely in the country. When she learns of her true heritage, she must not only defeat the evil fairy, but choose how she will live; as a princess or as simple Rosie.
[SSHEL S Collection and CCB S. M2152sp]

Yolen, Jane.
Briar Rose. 2002.
Becca has always loved her grandmother, Gemma, and treasures her telling of Sleeping Beauty. When Becca begins to trace her grandmother’s history, Gemma’s constant retelling of Sleeping Beauty takes on a new, tragic significance.
[SSHEL S Collection S. Y78br2002]

Yolen, Jane.
Curse of the Thirteenth Fey: The True Tale of Sleeping Beauty. 2012.
Accident-prone, thirteen-year-old Gorse, the youngest fairy in her family, falls into a trap while on her way to the palace to bless the newborn princess, Talia, but arrives in time to give a gift which, although seemingly horrific, may prove to be a real blessing in this take-off on the classic tale of Sleeping Beauty.
[SSHEL S Collection and CCB S. Y78cu]

Snow White

Harrison, Mette Ivie.
Mira, Mirror. 2004.
This is the story of the magic mirror used by Snow White’s stepmother. Trapped in the mirror by the woman she had thought her sister, Mira’s quest for freedom eventually leads her to true freedom and understanding of her sister.
[SSHEL S Collection S. H247m]

Levine, Gail Carson.
Fairest. 2006.
Aza has hair as black as ebony, lips as red as blood, and skin as white as snow; and everyone thinks she’s ugly. In a land where conventional beauty and singing are highly valued, her looks make her an outcast until she learns to control and accept her magical voice and her unique appearance.
[SSHEL S Collection and CCB S. L5788fa]

Yolen, Jane.
Snow in Summer. 2011.
Recasts the tale of Snow White, setting it in West Virginia in the 1940s with a stepmother who is a snake-handler.
[SSHEL S Collection and CCB S. Y78sn]

Anthropomorphic Animal Fantasy

Posted on by

These are stories of quests, battles, cultures, and journeys with animals as their protagonists. The animals have anthropomorphic (human-type) characteristics, relationships, dilemmas, and thoughts. Very few of these stories involve humans and in those that do, the animals remain the central characters.

Adams, Richard.
Watership Down. 1972.
A group of rabbits embark on a tumultuous journey to find a new warren where they can live in peace.
[SSHEL S Collection S. AD191w1974]

Avi.
Poppy. 1995.
Poppy and her boyfriend Ragweed are mice of Dimwood Forest, bullied and controlled by the cruel owl Mr. Ocax. After Ragweed’s tragic death, Poppy begins to fight back against the owl’s control and discovers new hope for her family and herself. Poppy’s saga continues in the series Tales of Dimwood Forest.
[SSHEL S Collection and CCB S. AV51PO]

Baldry, Cherith.
The Silver Horn. 2002.
Vair, a young pine marten, is excited to be attending his first challenge at the fair. But when his father is killed and he is taken captive by thieves, Vair must fight to regain his freedom and save Watersmeet. The Silver Horn begins the Eaglesmount Trilogy.
[SSHEL S Collection S. B1932s]

Bell, Clare.
Ratha’s Creature. 1983.
The Named, forerunners of the sabertooth, have an extensive culture and society. However, their primitive foes, the Un-Named, are slowly destroying them. When Ratha discovers the power of fire, both tragedy and a new hope result. The next book in The Named series is Clan Ground.
[SSHEL Oak Street S. B4135R]

Clement-Davies, David.
Fire Bringer. 2000.
A tyrannical lord of the herd has risen and has legions of bucks sharpening their antlers to take over the animal world. But there is a prophecy that a deer with the mark of the oak leaf will be born who will have a bond with all creatures and will free the herd of its tyrannical leader. Into this world the young buck Rannoch is born and sets out on an extraordinary journey.
[SSHEL S Collection S. C5915f]

Clement-Davies, David.
The Sight. 2002.
In Transylvania during the Middle Ages, a pack of wolves sets out on a perilous journey to prevent their enemy from calling upon a legendary evil — one that will give her the power to control all animals. The Sight is continued by Fell.
[SSHEL S Collection S. C591si]

DiCamillo, Kate.
The Tale of Despereaux: Being the Story of a Mouse, a Princess, Some Soup, and a Spool of Thread. 2003.
The adventures of Despereaux Tilling, a small mouse of unusual talents, the princess whom he loves, the servant girl who longs to be a princess, and a devious rat determined to bring them all to ruin.
[SSHEL S Collection and CCB S. D547t]

Epstein, Adam Jay.
The Familiars. 2010.
When a scrappy alley cat named Aldwyn passes himself off as a magical animal companion to Jack, a young wizard in training, Aldwyn and his fellow “familiars,” a know-it-all blue jay and bumbling tree frog, must save the kingdom after the evil queen of Vastia kidnaps Jack and two other wizards. Aldwyn and the familiars return in Secrets of the Crown.
[CCB S. Ep851f]

Fan, Nancy Yi.
Swordbird. 2007.
Warring factions of blue jays and cardinals call on Swordbird, the heroic bird of peace, to rescue them from the evil machinations of Turnatt, the tyrant hawk lord who plans to enslave them. Continue the adventures in Sword Quest.
[CCB S. F212s]

Hoeye, Michael.
Time Stops for No Mouse. 2002.
Hermux Tantamoq is a watchmaker; a quiet mouse who appreciates the simple things of life. But when he meets Ms. Linka Perflinger, adventuress and aviatrix, he is suddenly caught up in dangerous adventures. The Hermux Tantamoq Adventures continue in the next installment, Sands of Time.
[SSHEL S Collection S. H672t]

Hunter, Erin.
Into the Wild. 2003.
Four clans of wild cats have lived in the forest for generations. But now a mysterious danger is destroying ThunderClan. Rusty, an ordinary house cat, saves the clan and becomes Fireheart.
[SSHEL Oak Street S. H9169w]
Note: Erin Hunter is a pseudonym used by multiple authors. There are over 10 other Warriors series, such as Warriors: The New Prophecy. For a listing of series and the order of series books please see the website Fantastic Fiction.

Iserles, Inbali.
The Tygrine Cat. 2008.
Lost and alone, Mati seeks acceptance from a pack of feral cats at Cressida Lock, but in order to defeat the assassin on his trail, Mati must unlock the secret of his true identity and learn to harness an ancient and deadly feline power.
[SSHEL S Collection S. Is2t]

Jacques, Brian.
Redwall. 1986.
Matthias the mouse is the least of the novices at the great Redwall Abbey. But when the evil rat Cluny and his horde attack, Matthias’ dreams of becoming a warrior become a reality. Each of the stories in this series tells of the history of a place or event; Salamandastron, home of the badger lords and the fighting hares of the Long Patrol, the building of Redwall Abbey after the evil wildcats of Mossflower are destroyed, or the history of Redwall’s patron, Martin the Warrior.
[CCB S. J164R]

Jarvis, Robin.
Dark Portal. 2000.
The Deptford mice lead a quiet and peaceful life, except for the dark shadow of the Grill, the only thing separating them from the horrible sewer rats. Only with the help of the mystical bats will the mice be able to survive the evil of the rats and the secret horror of their god, Jupiter. The next book in the Deptford Histories is The Alchemist’s Cat.
[SSHEL S Collection S. J298d]

Jones, Allan.
Trundle’s Quest. 2011.
Trundle Boldoak’s simple life as the town lamplighter is turned upside-down the night he meets Esmeralda, a Roamany hedgehog, who whisks him away on a quest to find six fabled crowns and fulfill his role in an ancient prophecy. The quest continues in Fair Wind to Widdershins.
[CCB S. J7113tr]

Lasky, Kathryn.
Lone Wolf. 2010.
Abandoned by his pack, a baby wolf with a mysterious mark on his deformed paw survives and embarks on a journey that will change the world of the Wolves of the Beyond. Follow the characters in the sequel, Shadow Wolf.
[CCB S. L335l]

McAllister, M. I.
Urchin of the Riding Stars. 2005.
Urchin, an orphan squirrel, is raised by a kindly squirrel on the island of Mistmantle. Just when he thinks he will be spending the rest of his life unloading ships as one of the king’s work parties, he is given a wonderful opportunity. But on the first day of his new life, a terrible thing happens and Urchin finds himself the center of a dangerous plot. The Mistmantle Chronicles continues with Urchin and the Heartstone.
[SSHEL S Collection S. M117u]

Oppel, Kenneth.
Silverwing. 1997.
Shade is the runt of his Silverwing bat colony but he is determined to prove himself on the journey to Hibernaculum. When he is separated from the other bats, he must complete the long and dangerous journey alone. Two sequels, Sunwing and Firewing, as well as a prequel, Darkwing, follow the first installment.
[SSHEL S Collection and CCBH S. Op5s]

Sharp, Margery.
The Rescuers. 1959.
The Prisoners’ Aid Society has received news of a Norwegian poet, languishing in the fearsome Black Castle. Their only way to reach him is through Miss Bianca, pet of the diplomat’s son. Practical Bernard makes the journey and persuades Miss Bianca to help them. Against her will, the delicate lady mouse soon becomes entangled in a world of intrigue and danger — danger that continues in many sequels!
[SSHEL Oak Street and CCB S. SH228R]

Steig, William.
Abel’s Island. 1985.
Abel the mouse is torn from his comfortable life and stranded on an island by a storm. As he learns to survive in the wilderness, he discovers skills he never thought he had and finally gains the courage to find his way home.
[SSHEL S Collection S. St33A1985]

Stewart, Sharon.
Raven Quest. 2005.
Tok, the most nimble-winged of the young ravens, is banished for a crime he did not commit, and the only way he can restore his honor and his father’s name is to perform a brave and daring deed to benefit all ravenkind.
[SSHEL S Collection S. St498r]

Wagner, Hilary.
Nightshade City. 2010.
Eleven years after the cruel Killdeer took over the Catacombs far beneath the human’s Trillium City, Juniper Belancourt, assisted by Vincent and Victor Nightshade, leads a maverick band of rats to escape and establish their own city. The White Assassin is the next installment in the Nightshade Chronicles.
[SSHEL S Collection S. W1254n]

Arthurian Fantasy

Posted on by

King Arthur

Cabot, Meg.
Avalon High. 2006.
Having moved to Annapolis, Maryland, with her medievalist parents, high school junior Ellie enrolls at Avalon High School where several students may or may not be reincarnations of King Arthur and his court.
[SSHEL S Collection and CCB S. C1121a]

Clement-Davies, David.
The Telling Pool. 2005.
Relying on true courage and true love, as well as some surprising connections to the Arthurian legends, a young Welsh teenager named Rhodri embarks on a quest to remove an ancient curse from Great Britain during the reign of Richard the Lionheart.
[SSHEL Oak Street S. C4915t]

Crossley-Holland, Kevin.
The Seeing Stone. 2001.
In late twelfth-century England, a thirteen-year-old boy named Arthur recounts how Merlin gives him a magical seeing stone which shows him images of the legendary King Arthur, the events of whose life seem to have many parallels to his own. The Seeing Stone begins the Arthur Trilogy.
[SSHEL Oak Street and CCB S. C8841se]

Curry, Ann.
The Book of Brendan. 1989.
When the evil magician Myrddin appears, determined to subdue the monks of Holybury Abbey and the surrounding villages, Father Brendan and his young friends must rely on magical beasts and the help of Arthur, Guinevere, and Merlin, summoned from their sleep on the Isles of Truth.
[SSHEL Oak Street S. C9372B]

Curry, Jane Louise.
The Sleepers. 1968.
A prophecy inscribed on stone, a bronze Celtic bell, a fabled tree, and a long, straight passageway beneath a hill-threatened by a drilling company and a woman who strangely resembles Morgan Le Fay lead four children into a stitch in time and to the Sleepers, an early Celtic King Arthur, and his men.
[SSHEL Oak Street S. C937S]

Hill, Pamela Smith.
The Last Grail Keeper. 2001.
After an archaeological dig at Glastonbury Tor in England uncovers the Holy Grail, Felicity and her mother, a professor of Arthurian literature, find that their destinies are linked across time with the Grail and the legendary King Arthur.
[SSHEL Oak Street S. H5541l]

Newman, Robert.
The Testing of Tertius. 1973.
With Merlin subdued by an evil spell, his apprentice, Tertius, trying to break the spell and save Britain, finds his command of all future knowledge more hindrance than help.
[SSHEL Oak Street S. N467T]

Reeve, Philip.
Here Lies Arthur. 2008.
When her village is attacked and burned, Gwyna seeks protection from the bard Myrddin, who uses Gwyna in his plan to transform young Arthur into the heroic King Arthur.
[SSHEL S Collection and CCb S. R259h]

Service, Pamela F.
Tomorrow’s Magic. 2007.
Two novels in which a young, resurrected Merlin and two friends attempt to bring King Arthur back to Britain, then struggle against the evil plots of Morgan Le Fay to build a new and better civilization in the wake of a nuclear holocaust. The New Magic Trilogy also includes Yesterday’s Magic and Earth’s Magic.
[SSHEL S Collection S. Se69W]

Thomson, Sarah L.
The Dragon’s Son. 2001.
Based on the Mabinogion, a collection of medieval Welsh tales, as well as later legends, tells of family members and servants important in the life of King Arthur, featuring Nimue, Morgan le Fay, Luned, and Mordred.
[SSHEL S Collection S. T386d]

Merlin

Barron, T. A.
The Lost Years of Merlin. 1996.
A young boy who has no identity nor memory of his past washes ashore on the coast of Wales and finds his true name after a series of fantastic adventures. Four sequels chronicling the boy’s next adventures follow.
[SSHEL S Collection S. B2792l]

Newman, Robert.
Merlin’s Mistake. 1970.
By mistake Merlin had given Tertius the gift of future knowledge. But of what use was the knowledge of a computer circuit when one needed the know-how of knighthood.
[SSHEL Oak Street S. N467M]

Service, Pamela F.
Wizard of Wind and Rock. 1990.
Teased by the other children for not having a father, young Merlin develops his magic powers and comes to the aid of a king.
[SSHEL Oak Street S. 398.210942 Se69W]

Yolen, Jane.
Passager. 1996.
A foundling rediscovers his identity through the help of the falconer who adopts him. The Young Merlin Trilogy is continued in Hobby and Merlin.
[SSHEL Oak Street s. Y78p]

Guinevere

Aiken, Joan.
The Stolen Lake. 1981.
On her way to England from Nantucket aboard a British man-o’war, Dido has many adventures when the ship is diverted to the land of New Cumbria in the southern hemisphere, where she encounters a sleeping Arthur and an awakened Guinevere.
[SSHEL Oak Street S. Ai4st]

McKenzie, Nancy.
Guinevere’s Gift. 2008.
When the orphaned Guinevere is twelve years old, living with Queen Alyse and King Pellinore of Gwynedd, she fearlessly helps rescue her cousin from kidnappers who are plotting to seize the palace and overthrow the king, even as the queen despairs of Guinevere’s rebellious nature. The adventure continues in Guinevere’s Gamble.
[SSHEL S Collection S. M459g

Mordred

Springer, Nancy.
I Am Mordred: A Tale from Camelot. 1998.
When Mordred learns the identity of his father, he struggles with feelings of hatred, but also fights the fate which determines that he kill the good and gracious king.
[SSHEL Oak Street and CCB S. Sp83i]

Wein, Elizabeth.
The Winter Prince. 1993.
Medraut, the bitter, illegitimate son of King Artos, is tempted into joining Morgause, the king’s treacherous sister, in a plot against Lleu, the legitimate Prince of Britain.
[SSHEL Oak Street S. W432w]

Morgan le Fay

Springer, Nancy.
I Am Morgan le Fay: A Tale from Camelot. 2001.
In a war-torn England where her half-brother Arthur will eventually become king, the young Morgan le Fay comes to realize that she has magic powers and links to the faerie world.
[SSHEL S Collection and CCB S. Sp83im]

The Knights of the Round Table

Morris, Gerald.
The Squire’s Tale. 1998.
In medieval England, fourteen-year-old Terence finds his tranquil existence suddenly changed when he becomes the squire of the young Gawain of Orkney and accompanies him on a long quest, proving Gawain’s worth as a knight and revealing an important secret about his own true identity. The squire’s tales continue in a series of sequels.
[SSHEL S Collection S. M832s]

Morris, Gerald
The Adventures of Sir Givret the Short. 2008.
While not the most intrepid knight of the Round Table, Sir Givret the Short helps King Arthur and the other knights with his cunning and cleverness. Morris tells the stories of other knights, like Lancelot, in the same series.
[SSHEL S Collection S.M832a]

Scieszka, Jon.
Knights of the Kitchen Table. 1993.
When Joe, Fred, and Sam are sent back in time by a magic book, they find themselves face-to-face with giants, dragons, wizards, and the Knights of the Round Table.  Book one in the Time Warp Trio series.
[SSHEL Oak Street S. Sci27k1993]