Diane Bevan

The story of early America does not end with the American Revolution. As the newly formed nation began to grow and change, a second wave of extraordinary women stepped up to help define the country between 1796 and 1825. Dive into the fascinating lives of reformers, educators, and explorers who shaped the United States as settlers moved west and south. You will meet remarkable figures like Dolley Madison, Rebecca Gratz, and Sacajawea, each leaving their own unique mark on history. Through personal letters, private journals, and vivid biographical portraits, you can see exactly how these visionaries handled their public roles and private challenges. This compelling historical journey brings the early days of the United States to life, honoring the brilliant and courageous women who laid the essential groundwork for a better, stronger society.

Imagine waking up and realizing you have two completely different sets of memories inside your head. For nineteen-year-old Polly Whittacker, one set of memories is perfectly ordinary, filled with school, home, and regular friends. But the other set is strange, magical, and frightening. These hidden memories began nine years ago when she accidentally crashed an unusual funeral and met a mysterious, brilliant cellist named Thomas Lynn. As Polly tries to untangle her own mind, the strange memories slowly begin to overpower the normal ones. She suddenly realizes that she embarked on marvelous adventures with Tom, but then she did something terrible that changed everything. Now, she cannot remember what that terrible thing was, but she knows someone has been trying very hard to make her forget Tom entirely. Time is running out, and Tom's life is at supernatural risk. Polly must dig deep into her own forgotten past to uncover the dangerous secret hiding in her mind. If she cannot piece together the truth, her greatest friend and perhaps Polly herself will be lost to the dark magic forever.

Before Earth, before stars, before even time, there was silence. Then came a burst so huge it set the universe in motion. This poetic picture book follows the story of creation from the Big Bang to blazing stars, planets, oceans, living things, and you. With lyrical language and sweeping mixed-media illustrations, it turns a vast science idea into something young readers can feel: the matter that makes up our world began long ago in the stars. A beautiful blend of science and wonder, this book invites curious readers to look up at the night sky and see their own place in the universe.

The classroom is buzzing: school is almost over, summer is waiting, and Mrs. Byrd is handing out end-of-the-year awards. Gilbert is excited for the party, but as his classmates are named best speller, best reader, and best at other things, he starts to wonder where he fits in. This warm Gilbert and Friends story captures the funny, nervous feeling of wanting to be noticed. Young readers will recognize Gilbert’s mix of excitement, worry, and hope as the school year comes to a close. With gentle humor and classroom feelings that ring true, it is a reassuring picture book about being seen for your own special strengths.

First grade sounds exciting until Gilbert starts thinking about everything that could go wrong. A new teacher, new classmates, harder work, and a whole new classroom suddenly feel like a lot to handle. On his first day, Gilbert discovers that school is not exactly what he imagined. Some moments are awkward, some classmates seem ahead of him, and one boy is not very kind. But Mrs. Byrd is welcoming, and Gilbert begins to see that everyone brings something different to the class. This gentle back-to-school story is especially comforting for readers ages 6 to 8 who know the butterflies of a new beginning. Funny, honest, and reassuring, it shows that first grade can hold surprises, challenges, and new confidence too.

Gilbert has big plans for Mother’s Day. He wants to make the day special and show his mother that she is the very best. The trouble is, breakfast, cards, and surprises do not go quite the way he hopes, and his little sister Lola keeps ending up right where Gilbert does not want her: beside their mother. Readers who have ever wanted a parent’s full attention will understand Gilbert’s frustration. Diane deGroat turns sibling jealousy into a funny, tender family story with just the right amount of chaos. Warm and easy to relate to, this Gilbert and Friends picture book is a good choice for Mother’s Day, family read-alouds, and conversations about sharing love at home.

Have you ever wondered about the amazing people who write your favorite books? Maybe you want to know what inspired them, what their childhood was like, or even what hobbies they enjoy when they're not writing magical stories! "Something About the Author, Volume 71" is like a special treasure chest full of secrets about the clever authors and illustrators who create wonderful worlds for you to explore. You can peek into their lives and discover how they came up with their characters and plots. It's a fantastic way to learn more about the creative minds behind the stories you love, making reading an even more exciting adventure!

When eight-year-old Cora Lee discovers that her mother has vanished without a trace, she knows she cannot just go to the police. After surviving by living out of their car, the brave young girl realizes she needs someone who operates completely outside the usual rules. Enter Jake Whittaker: a messy, donut-loving private investigator whose detective skills are just as disorganized as his cluttered office. Jake is definitely not a fan of children, and he is certainly not your traditional hero. But when Cora Lee marches through his door demanding his help, her fierce determination makes it impossible for him to turn her away. What follows is a wildly unpredictable investigation as this mismatched duo hits the city streets to uncover the truth. Fueled by sugar and sheer stubbornness, Jake and Cora Lee must navigate a tricky trail of clever clues, unexpected twists, and hidden secrets. This fast-paced, humorous mystery proves that appearances can be deceiving. As you ride along on their chaotic quest, you will discover a heartwarming story about friendship, resilience, and the surprising fact that the best detectives are often the ones you least expect.

Gilbert’s class is putting on plays about famous people, and Gilbert is not thrilled. Performing in front of everyone makes his stomach flutter, especially when he has to play George Washington in the cherry tree story. He wants every line, costume piece, and prop to be just right. Then an important prop disappears before the show, and Gilbert’s nerves turn into blame. This funny school story uses a classroom performance to explore honesty, mistakes, and the pressure of wanting to do well. With expressive animal characters and a familiar school setting, Liar, Liar, Pants on Fire gives readers ages 6 to 8 a gentle way to think about truth, responsibility, and what can happen when embarrassment gets in the way of doing the right thing.

Camp Hi-Dee-Ho is supposed to mean games, friends, and an exciting night away from home. Gilbert is ready for fun until Lewis starts talking about the camp ghost. Suddenly the dark, the cabins, and every strange sound feel a lot spookier. When Gilbert has to go outside during the night, his imagination runs wild. This Gilbert and Friends story mixes gentle suspense with humor, making it a friendly choice for readers who like a little shiver without anything too scary. Perfect for ages 6 to 8, Good Night, Sleep Tight, Don’t Let the Bedbugs Bite understands how big a first overnight trip can feel. It is a reassuring picture book about fear, bravery, and finding courage when the lights go out.

Gilbert is ready for a perfect beach day, but things start going wrong fast. Lola is nervous about the water, Gilbert forgets his bathing suit, and the new suit he finds says Surfer Dude in a way that makes him feel extra cool. Looking like a surfer is one thing. Acting like one is another. As Gilbert tries to enjoy the beach, young readers get a funny, easy-to-follow story about confidence, imagination, and the small surprises that can change a family outing. Written for beginning readers, Gilbert, the Surfer Dude keeps the language accessible while still feeling lively and polished. It is a bright beach adventure for ages 6 to 8 who enjoy animal characters, gentle humor, and first steps toward independent reading.

Christmas is coming, and Gilbert has plenty to do: cookies, skating, snow, tree decorating, and all the excitement of the season. Homework is on the list too, but somehow it keeps slipping farther and farther away. When Monday morning gets closer, Gilbert has to face the problem he has been avoiding. This funny holiday school story captures the busy, sparkling feeling of December while also showing a very familiar challenge: putting off something important. Young readers ages 6 to 8 will enjoy Gilbert’s cheerful distractions and his growing worry as the weekend disappears. Warm, festive, and lightly comic, Jingle Bells, Homework Smells is a Christmas picture book with just enough school-life trouble to feel real.

A class trip to Pilgrim Town should be a fun Thanksgiving outing, but Gilbert gets paired with Philip, a tattletale who notices everything. Gilbert wishes his buddy would leave him alone, and before long, he makes a choice that creates more trouble than he expects. This Gilbert and Friends story turns a field trip into a funny lesson about patience, gratitude, and seeing another person more clearly. The historical Thanksgiving setting gives the story a seasonal feel, while Gilbert’s frustration keeps it firmly in the world of real classroom friendships. For readers ages 6 to 8, We Gather Together...Now Please Get Lost! offers humor, animal characters, and relatable school-trip tension without becoming too heavy. It is a warm holiday picture book about finding something to appreciate, even in an annoying situation.

Gilbert and Lola are excited for cousin Wally’s Easter visit, especially with an egg hunt coming up. But Wally has turned everything into a race. He wants to be first, fastest, and the one with the most eggs, even when his pushy behavior spoils the fun. Gilbert has to figure out how to handle a cousin whose winning matters more than kindness. This cheerful holiday story uses Easter excitement, family visits, and playful rivalry to explore fairness and sharing in a way young readers can understand. Funny and easy to relate to, Last One in Is a Rotten Egg! is a lively picture book for ages 6 to 8. It is a good pick for readers who enjoy animal characters, family stories, and holiday adventures with a gentle lesson underneath.

Five year old Zoe has huge plans for her future, and she refuses to let anything stand in her way. With boundless energy and fierce determination, she imagines herself stepping into all sorts of incredible careers. Whether she is digging up ancient dinosaur bones as an archaeologist, caring for wild animals as a veterinarian, or even running the country as the President, Zoe knows her possibilities are endless. But whenever a pesky voice of doubt tries to whisper that she might fail, Zoe swat it right away. She has a secret weapon to achieve her wildest dreams: learning to read. Bursting with charisma and confidence, Zoe shows readers how to silence their fears, trust in their abilities, and grab hold of their own magnificent futures.

Gilbert has fifteen valentines to write for his classmates, but two names on the list make him stop. How can he write something kind for classmates who hurt his feelings? Instead, Gilbert writes two mean poems and signs someone else’s name. The prank feels clever at first, but it quickly causes hurt feelings and classroom chaos. This popular Gilbert and Friends story is funny, sharp, and emotionally honest, especially for readers who know how hard it can be to stay kind when they feel wronged. Roses Are Pink, Your Feet Really Stink is a strong Valentine’s Day read-aloud for ages 6 to 8. With humor and heart, it opens the door to conversations about friendship, forgiveness, honesty, and making things right.

Fred Rogers did not set out to become one of America’s most familiar television neighbors. As a child, he loved music and puppets, and as an adult, he believed television could be used gently, honestly, and thoughtfully for children. This Who Was? biography follows the life of Mister Rogers, from his early interests to the creation of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood. You will discover how he brought songs, puppets, calm conversations, and big feelings into homes across the country, and why his message of kindness made such a lasting impression. Warm, accessible, and full of interesting details, this book introduces young readers to a musician, minister, performer, and television pioneer who treated children’s thoughts and emotions with unusual respect. It is a thoughtful biography for readers interested in media, creativity, and everyday kindness.

Gilbert arrives at school ready for April Fools’ Day fun, but the jokes keep landing on him. Friends trick him, Mrs. Byrd gets involved, and Lewis seems determined to be the worst prankster of all. As Gilbert tries to turn the day around, readers are invited into a playful school story filled with surprises. The illustrations add extra hidden tricks, making the book fun to look through closely as well as read aloud. April Fool! Watch Out at School! is a light, funny picture book for ages 6 to 8 who enjoy classroom humor and holiday mischief. It captures the giddy excitement of pranks while keeping the story warm and child-friendly, with Gilbert’s feelings at the center of the fun.

Gilbert has the perfect Halloween plan: he will be a Martian Space Pilot in the school costume parade. But costume plans can go wrong, and soon Gilbert is facing a mix-up that leaves him feeling anything but ready to march with his class. A ballerina tutu is not what he had in mind. As Gilbert deals with embarrassment, classmates, and the pressure to look the way he expected, this funny Halloween story explores the ups and downs of standing out. Trick or Treat, Smell My Feet is a lively picture book for ages 6 to 8 who enjoy school stories, costumes, and gentle holiday chaos. It is playful and silly, but it also understands how big small disappointments can feel to a child.

Lewis is always teasing Gilbert, so a birthday party invitation from him feels suspicious. Gilbert goes anyway, carrying a wrapped gift, a smile, and a plan to get even if Lewis acts mean again. Birthday parties are supposed to be fun, but Gilbert’s feelings are tangled up with hurt, anger, and the question of what kind of present Lewis really deserves. Diane deGroat brings her usual humor and honesty to a story about bullies, choices, and generosity. Happy Birthday to You, You Belong in a Zoo is a relatable picture book for ages 6 to 8 who understand playground grudges and mixed-up feelings. It is funny, warm, and useful for conversations about doing the right thing when someone has not been kind.

Mrs. Byrd’s class is working on Earth Day projects, and everyone seems full of ideas about recycling, saving water, and protecting the planet. Everyone except Gilbert. He wants to do something original, but the perfect idea will not come. Then a class picnic gives Gilbert a problem to notice and a reason to think differently. This Gilbert and Friends story connects school creativity with caring for the environment in a way that feels concrete and child-friendly. Ants in Your Pants, Worms in Your Plants! is a lively Earth Day picture book for ages 6 to 8. It works well for readers who like classroom stories, animal characters, and projects that begin with a simple question: what can one kid do to help?

Gilbert’s tooth wiggles through the school day until recess brings one big BAM and the tooth finally comes out. Gilbert can hardly wait for the tooth fairy, but Lewis is jealous and comes up with a sneaky plan of his own. This beginning reader turns a familiar childhood milestone into a funny school story with just enough mischief to keep pages moving. Gilbert’s excitement, Lewis’s trick, and the tooth fairy question make the plot easy to follow and fun to read. Gilbert and the Lost Tooth is a friendly early reader for ages 6 to 8, especially children who are losing teeth or waiting for their turn. With animal characters, classroom scenes, and gentle humor, it supports growing readers without losing story charm.

All aboard for the biggest locomotive adventure you will ever experience. Step back in time and meet Big Boy 4014, the absolute largest steam engine to ever travel the tracks. For years, this massive train rested quietly, seemingly retired from its rumbling glory days. But a dedicated crew known as the Steam Team had other plans. You are invited to join the incredible journey of restoring this historic giant. Discover the heavy tools, the teamwork, and the sheer mechanical power required to bring a sleeping monster back to life. Feel the heat of the firebox and hear the deafening blast of the whistle as Big Boy finally rolls out of the station. Perfect for young engineers and history fans, this true story shows how hard work and passion can make even the most gigantic dreams steam ahead.

The chilly wind blows a bright red scarf right off a bear and sends it flying into the woods. What happens when a perfectly warm scarf is up for grabs? Two raccoons decide it makes an excellent rope for tug of war. A beaver thinks it is a fabulous winter hat. Soon, a fox and some playful squirrels are using the scarf as a swing and a trampoline. You will giggle as every creature in the forest tries to claim the red scarf for themselves. Soon, the animals are tangled in a giant, chaotic tug of war. It will take the original bear, a little bit of patience, and a lot of teamwork to sort out this massive mix up. Enjoy a nearly wordless winter adventure that shows how sharing with friends is the best way to stay warm.

A giant shadow is creeping down the mountain, and it belongs to Big Bear. Little Skunk is feeling very nervous. All the other animals in the forest have incredible ways to escape danger. Deer has long legs to sprint away in a flash. Blue Jay has wings to soar high into the clouds. But Little Skunk cannot run fast, and he certainly cannot fly. You might wonder how a small, slow creature like Little Skunk can protect himself from a massive bear. Join Little Skunk as he discovers that you do not need to be the fastest or the biggest animal in the woods to stay safe. Sometimes, the most powerful defense comes from the most surprising place. Follow along to find out what secret weapon Little Skunk has hiding right behind him.

Booming thunder and flashing lightning make for a very scary night. Raccoon is trembling in his home and decides he does not want to brave the storm completely alone. He rushes out into the rainy woods of Thistle Hollow to find a friendly face. But when he knocks on the doors of Possum, Quail, and Woodchuck, they all tell him there is simply no room for him inside. Just when you think Raccoon will be stuck in the cold rain forever, he spots a warm, glowing light in the distance. Will this next neighbor finally open their door and share a safe space? Step into the stormy forest and discover a heartwarming tale about kindness, empathy, and making room for friends when they need it the most.

Velma Jean is the most fearless person ten year old Ruby Jane knows. Every single day, Velma Jean does something bold and daring. She marches barefoot over prickly sandburs, takes a swim in the brand new horse tank, and even stares down the intimidating farm bull named Alfred. Ruby Jane is absolutely certain that her older sister is the bravest girl in the entire world. But the sky turns dark green, and a roaring tornado touches down near the edge of their family farm. Suddenly, fearless Velma Jean is terrified and refuses to go down into the dark, spooky storm cellar. Now it is up to Ruby Jane to find courage she never knew she had. You will be on the edge of your seat as Ruby Jane steps up to protect her sister from the ferocious weather. Discover how true bravery often appears exactly when you need it the most.

Imagine running an enormous race completely fueled by slices of pumpkin. While most sheep ranchers in Australia use horses or jeeps to check on their flocks, Joshua Summerhayes prefers to run across the sprawling valley with his loyal Yellow Dog right behind him. So when a massive race from Melbourne to Sydney is announced, Joshua happily decides to join the competition. The city crowds cannot help but laugh when the old rancher arrives wearing overalls and chunky gumboots, calmly snacking on a piece of pumpkin. But their laughter quickly turns to cheers as Joshua steadily runs his way to the front of the pack. You will cheer for this humble hero as he proves that being true to yourself is more important than fitting in. Run alongside Joshua and discover why winning is not the only reason to enter a race.

The most important day in a young kitten's life is rapidly approaching. Name Day is the special time when he will finally be given his true identity, but this little cat does not want just any ordinary name. He dreams of a title that is fierce, noble, and strong. To prove his worth, he decides he must follow the path of the most magnificent creature in the jungle. You will travel deep into the lush wilderness as the small kitten trails a massive Bengal tiger. By watching the tiger's quiet grace and immense power, the kitten hopes to earn a name that reflects true bravery. Follow along on this beautifully illustrated adventure and find out if a tiny house cat can truly possess the heart of a wild tiger.

The neighborhood Trade Ya club meets every week, and this time, Cynthia Lucinda has brought the most amazing item ever. It is the Beautiful Pink Hairbow, and Evelyn J. immediately decides that she must have it. There is just one giant problem. Evelyn does not have anything good enough to trade for such a spectacular hairbow. In a moment of pure desperation, Evelyn realizes there is exactly one thing she can offer. Her cute but incredibly demanding baby brother, Edward G. You will laugh out loud as Evelyn attempts to negotiate the ultimate sibling swap. Will she actually give away her little brother just to wear the perfect pink accessory? Dive into this hilarious story about family, trading, and discovering what is truly valuable.

The rest of the herd walks in a perfectly straight, dignified line from the barn to the pasture. But Lily is not like the other cows. She has rhythm in her hooves and would much rather spend her time prancing, twisting, and dancing across the grass. Because her lively moves disrupt the quiet order of the farm, Lily decides it is time to pack her bags and see the world. You will tap your toes as Lily travels from the busy streets of New York City to the vibrant festivals of Senegal. She learns amazing new routines and meets wonderful friends along the way, but none of the dances feel exactly right for a cow. Discover if Lily can find the perfect rhythm and a place where her unique talents truly belong.

Sophie LeBeque is not an ordinary pet. She is a pampered superstar and the famous cover model for Fancy Cat magazine. She is used to riding in luxurious limousines and being treated like royalty. But Sophie's perfect, glamorous life takes a wild turn when a sudden bump sends her travel cage flying right out the window. Suddenly, this high society kitty finds herself stranded in the chaotic middle of the morning rush hour. You will be breathless as Sophie navigates crowded train stations, loud noises, and rushing commuters. Discover how a spoiled cover cat learns to survive the gritty underground metro system. It is a hilarious, action packed journey that proves even the fanciest felines have a fierce, adventurous spirit hiding inside.

Nathaniel has a very special routine with his hundred year old great grandfather. Together, they share delicious chicken salad sandwiches while his grandfather spins fascinating tales from his long, adventurous past. Nathaniel loves listening to every single detail of the history that comes alive right at the kitchen table. But one day, Nathaniel realizes that his elderly grandfather is growing tired of telling his own stories over and over again. The spark in his eye is starting to fade. It is up to Nathaniel to find a brilliant way to lift his great grandfather's spirits. You will be touched by this warm, intergenerational tale that shows how swapping stories can build a beautiful bridge between the young and the old.

Badger has planned every seed, every row, and every part of his perfect spring garden. With help from Red Squirrel, Dormouse, and Weasel, Badger weeds, rakes, and plants with care. He can already picture neat rows of flowers and vegetables growing just the way he imagined. Then a rainstorm sweeps through and scatters the seeds, leaving Badger sure that everything is ruined. Badger’s Perfect Garden is a gentle animal story about plans, disappointment, friendship, and the surprises nature can bring. Young readers who like garden stories and woodland animals will connect with Badger’s big feelings and his friends’ steady support. It is especially useful for conversations about flexibility, patience, and finding beauty when things do not go exactly as expected.

A terrifying lightning storm has swept through the forest, and poor Raccoon has lost his home to a terrible fire. Squirrel, Beaver, Mouse, Badger, and Rabbit watch the smoke rise, feeling completely overwhelmed by their friend's massive tragedy. Not knowing how to rebuild a whole house, they retreat to their own homes to try and forget the sadness. But true friends cannot stay away for long. Each animal decides to do just one tiny act of kindness for Raccoon. You will see how a handful of berries or a warm hug can completely change a devastating day. See exactly how a collection of very small gestures can add up to make a huge, healing impact when a community comes together.

Badger is completely ready for winter, and he cannot wait one single minute longer for the snow to fall. He stares at the sky, pacing and hoping for the first white flakes. His calm friend Hedgehog tries to explain that the weather takes time and everything will happen exactly when it is supposed to. But patience is not Badger's strong suit. Seeing how frustrated he is, Badger's friends decide they need to take action. They come up with a series of hilarious tricks and clever ideas to grab the sky's attention and force the snow to start falling right now. You can join this funny group of woodland animals as they bang pots, perform dances, and eventually learn that some things in nature simply cannot be rushed.

Mama Duck is always in a massive hurry, rushing her fluffy babies around the barnyard. But little Quack simply cannot be rushed. He is the slowest duckling in the family, perfectly happy to waddle behind the rest and take his sweet time exploring the farm. No matter how many times Mama shouts for him to catch up, Quack stays moving at his own gentle pace. Everything changes when a sneaky, hungry Cat comes prowling through the tall grass. Suddenly, the duck family is in serious danger. You will laugh out loud as Quack proves that speed is not always the best way to handle a problem. Discover how the slowest duckling's relaxed attitude just might be the exact thing needed to save the entire family.

Armando knows every single inch of his lush rainforest home. He knows the sweet smell of the damp earth, the vivid colors of the canopy, and the exact sounds the monkeys make at dawn. The towering trees provide shelter not just for Armando, but for a magnificent variety of wild creatures living from the dark forest floor all the way to the bright emergent layer above. But the peace of the jungle is shattered when heavy machines arrive. As outsiders begin to violently chop down the trees, the frightened animals have nowhere to run. They desperately seek refuge with Armando in the last remaining patch of untouched woods, a small green sanctuary he calls his island. You will witness the heartbreaking reality of Amazon deforestation and discover the incredible importance of protecting our fragile natural habitats.

It is the middle of the night, and the entire Huffle household is fast asleep. Well, everyone except for Jack. He is wide awake because an incredibly loud, rumbling noise is shaking the bedroom door and rattling the floorboards. Someone in the house is snoring with the force of a freight train, and Jack is determined to find out exactly who it is. With his loyal dog by his side, Jack creeps through the dark house. He checks on Mama Gwyn, Baby Sue, the twins, and even Papa Ben, waking them up one by one. But to his utter surprise, the mighty snore roars on! You will love predicting who is making all that noise as the family tiptoes out to the barn. Follow your ears to a hilarious and totally unexpected bedtime surprise.

The founding of the United States was not just the work of men. While the founding fathers were busy making history, the founding mothers were holding the country together. Uncover the incredible, often overlooked accomplishments of the brilliant women who managed farms, businesses, and families while men were away at war. In this engaging illustrated history, you will meet heroic patriots like Abigail Adams, Martha Washington, Phillis Wheatley, and Mercy Otis Warren. By reading details gathered from their private letters, journals, and ledgers, you get a front-row seat to the daily courage and strategic thinking of these powerful women. Their bravery behind the scenes played a massive role in orchestrating the American Revolution and shaping the future of a new nation. Step past the famous faces of the founding fathers and discover the remarkable ladies who truly helped raise America.