Johnston Birchall

A chicken is loose in the kitchen, and she is not tiptoeing. She flaps, pecks, pokes, and sends the room into a cheerful scramble while everyone wonders what she could possibly want. The rhyming text gives the story a lively beat, and the action moves quickly enough for readers to join in with the sounds and motion. Is the chicken being silly, stubborn, or surprisingly purposeful? The answer comes through a simple barnyard problem that builds toward a warm little surprise. Funny, energetic, and easy to read aloud, Chicken in the Kitchen is a picture book for children who like animal chaos, kitchen commotion, and stories where every flap has a reason.

The quest is over, but the real challenge is just beginning. You might think saving the realm is the hardest part of a hero's journey, but for apprentice knight Kalanthe and the realm's most notorious thief, Olsa, the aftermath brings an entirely new set of dangers. They have successfully completed their legendary mission, only to find themselves thrust into the glaring spotlight of unexpected fame. Everyone wants a piece of the heroes. As they navigate the treacherous waters of their newfound celebrity, Kalanthe and Olsa must also confront the complicated feelings blooming between them. But powerful forces are lurking in the shadows, determined to tear them apart and exploit their success for dark purposes. To survive the treacherous politics of the realm and protect the bond they share, they will need to rely on each other more than ever. This romantic high fantasy explores what happens after the final battle is won and the true cost of becoming a legend.

One hundred years before Ender Wiggin was born, humanity faced its first true existential threat. The alien Formics have arrived in the Solar System, and they bring only fire and death. Victor Delgado, a young miner from the deep reaches of space, managed to beat the alien vessel to Earth to deliver a desperate warning. But skeptical governments and bureaucratic leaders refused to listen, dismissing the threat until it was far too late. Now, space stations are burning, colonies are being wiped out, and the alien ship is descending upon Earth itself. As the devastating invasion begins, traditional military forces are caught completely off guard. The only people capable of moving fast enough to counter the ruthless alien tactics are Mazer Rackham and his elite Mobile Operations Police. In a desperate scramble for survival, humanity must unite and fight back against an enemy they do not understand. The First Formic War has reached Earth, and the death toll is rising.

Step into a world where dragons are not just myths, but a terrifying reality drawn to the taste of fossil fuels. From the moment the combustion engine was invented, the threat of dragon attacks skyrocketed, forcing modern towns to rely on dedicated slayers for protection. In the small town of Trondheim, sixteen-year-old Owen Thorskard is the last in a legendary line of dragon slayers. He might be terrible at algebra, but he is all that stands between his friends and fiery destruction. Armed with his family legacy and a sturdy sword, Owen faces impossible odds as the dragon threat grows and slayers abandon rural areas for the big cities. But no hero works alone. You will experience this epic tale through the eyes of Siobhan McQuaid, a brilliant student who steps up to become Owen's official bard. Together, they must rewrite the rules of survival. This gripping adventure blends modern high school life with pulse-pounding fantasy action.

The Jedi Order has fallen, and the galaxy is under the iron grip of the new Empire. For Ahsoka Tano, surviving Order 66 meant walking away from everything she ever knew and loved. Now, she is living a life in hiding, desperately trying to keep a low profile while the devastating losses of the Clone Wars haunt her every step. She is convinced she can never be part of a larger movement again. However, when the dark shadow of Imperial forces threatens a peaceful farming planet, Ahsoka finds herself unable to turn a blind eye. Her deep-seated need to protect the innocent and fight against tyranny pulls her back into the fray. You will follow her journey as she steps out of the shadows, forging a new path that will ultimately lead her to Bail Organa and the birth of the Rebel Alliance. This thrilling science fiction adventure bridges the gap between her tragic past and her legendary future.

A devastating curse has been cast, and the fate of an entire kingdom hangs by a delicate thread. Generations after a demon was banished, she has carefully plotted her return, crippling one nation and empowering another. Her final act of vengeance is a terrible curse placed upon a newborn princess, condemning her to lose her soul or destroy her own people to survive. But this princess is not destined to simply sleep and wait for rescue. As she grows, the threads of ancient magic begin to weave a different narrative. Alongside a group of fiercely talented, exiled spinners, she must unravel the demon's intricately plotted trap before it is too late. You will be drawn into a desperate race against time where the power of storytelling and the strength of chosen family are the only weapons against dark magic. This inventive reimagining of a classic fairy tale proves that true power lies in taking control of your own destiny.

A century before the legendary Battle School was built, humanity believed they were completely alone in the universe. People were slowly expanding outward from Earth, mining asteroids and establishing distant colonies in the deep reaches of the Solar System. Far out in the Kuiper Belt, the crew of the mining ship El Cavador is struggling with failing equipment, corporate claim-jumpers, and the challenges of deep-space survival. So when their sensors detect a massive, fast-moving object hurtling into the system at a fraction of the speed of light, it is easy to dismiss it as just another space anomaly. But they are dead wrong. This approaching vessel is not a comet or an asteroid; it is an alien ship, and it is heavily armed. As the terrifying reality of first contact sets in, the isolated crew of El Cavador must figure out how to warn a skeptical Earth. The First Formic War is about to begin, and humanity is completely unprepared.

Imagine a near-future world where the British Empire never fell, sustained instead by peaceful repatriation and technological advancements in genetic matchmaking. As the direct descendant of the legendary Queen Victoria, Crown Princess Victoria-Margaret is poised to enter a politically calculated marriage to secure the empire's future. But before she fully surrenders to her royal duties, she decides to spend one final, anonymous summer in the vibrant city of Toronto. Operating completely incognito, Margaret crosses paths with Helena Marcus, the daughter of a prominent geneticist, and August Callaghan, the charismatic heir to a struggling shipping empire. Immersed in a whirlwind of high-society debutante balls, politically charged tea parties, and unexpected summer romances, the three teenagers form a profound and surprising bond. You will follow them as they uncover secrets that challenge everything they know about duty and desire. This captivating story explores love, identity, and the extraordinary power of choosing your own path when the whole world is watching.

The royal crown has been passed on, but the true battle for the galaxy is just beginning. When Padme Naberrie gracefully steps down from her reign as the Queen of Naboo, she expects to return to a life of quiet normalcy. Instead, the newly elected monarch asks her to take on a crucial and demanding new role as Naboo's representative in the Galactic Senate. Leaving the familiarity of her home planet behind, Padme travels to the sprawling, complicated world of Coruscant. She quickly realizes that the treacherous waters of galactic politics are far more dangerous than any battlefield. Alongside her most trusted and fiercely loyal handmaidens, she must learn to navigate a maze of deception, hidden agendas, and shifting alliances. You will witness her transformation as she steps out of the regal shadow to forge a powerful new identity. This gripping science fiction narrative reveals the courage and intellect it takes to lead in a divided universe.

Before she was a galactic senator or a legendary leader, she was simply a fourteen-year-old girl stepping into the most powerful role on her planet. When Padme Naberrie wins the complex and demanding election to become the Queen of Naboo, she must leave her family and her childhood behind to take up residence in the royal palace. To ensure her safety in a galaxy filled with rising tensions, she carefully selects a group of incredibly skilled handmaidens to serve as her confidantes, decoys, and fiercely dedicated protectors. You will see how each girl brings her own unique talents to the group, but it is ultimately up to Padme to unite them into an unbreakable sisterhood. When the ruthless forces of the Trade Federation launch a sudden invasion of Naboo, the young queen and her loyal retinue face their first terrifying trial. This thrilling science fiction adventure uncovers the origins of an iconic leader and the friendships that defined her.

Life aboard a deep-space freighter is harsh, especially when your own family considers you a liability. Pendt Harland was born with a genetic mutation that makes her an outcast on the Harland, her family's interstellar ship. Viewed as nothing more than a waste of precious rations, she knows her chances of survival are incredibly slim if she stays. When the ship docks at a mysterious, remote space station, Pendt seizes a desperate opportunity to escape her bleak future. In the sprawling corridors of the station, she crosses paths with the Brannick twins, the teenage heirs to the powerful syndicate that controls the outpost. Despite their vastly different backgrounds, the three teenagers quickly realize they share a burning desire to escape the oppressive destinies forced upon them. You will be on the edge of your seat as they pool their unique skills to orchestrate a daring and highly dangerous takeover. This thought-provoking science fiction adventure is a thrilling story of defiance and self-determination.

The peaceful days of the Republic are crumbling, and the devastating reality of the Clone Wars is spreading across the galaxy. Senator Padme Amidala finds herself at the center of the conflict, balancing her deep commitment to the democratic ideals of the Senate with the urgent need for action on the front lines. While the galaxy descends into chaos, she is also harboring a massive, life-altering secret: her forbidden marriage to Jedi Knight Anakin Skywalker. As Anakin departs to fulfill his duties as a wartime commander, Padme realizes she cannot sit idly by in the safety of Coruscant. When a critical rescue mission demands her unique skills, she calls upon her most trusted confidante, Sabe, to take her place in the political arena. You will follow Padme as she steps out of the Senate halls and into the heart of the war zone, proving that her courage extends far beyond diplomacy. This thrilling science fiction chapter explores the sacrifices required for love and duty.

The alien invasion of Earth has begun, and it seems entirely unstoppable. Before Ender Wiggin was even born, humanity faced its first terrifying encounter with the Formics. Now, the planet is reeling from the devastating attacks, and the survival of the human race hangs by the thinnest of threads. As the massive alien ship looms, a desperate coalition of corporate forces, international militaries, and brilliant individuals must band together to fight back. You are thrown directly into the chaotic, high-stakes origins of the First Formic War. Follow a diverse cast of characters, from brilliant tacticians to courageous soldiers, as they navigate a shattered world, pushing the limits of human ingenuity and resilience. They must dismiss their fears, overcome political divides, and forge a unified front against an enemy that seeks to eradicate all human life. Experience the pulse-pounding prequel that sets the stage for the legendary Battle School and the ultimate fight for Earth's future.

The first alien invasion of Earth was barely beaten back, leaving humanity scarred and terrified. China has been devastated by the Formics' brutal initial attack, and the horrifying truth has just been uncovered: the ship that wreaked such unimaginable destruction was merely a scout. A massive mothership is currently lurking beyond the Kuiper Belt, hurtling toward the solar system with weapons Earth cannot possibly match. In a desperate bid for survival, the planet is reorganized under a new Hegemon and a unified International Fleet. But the greatest threat to humanity might not be the aliens at all. As brilliant minds like Mazer Rackham, Victor Delgado, and Bingwen race to develop a defense, they are sabotaged by an enemy as old as human history, political ambition, greed, and ruthless self-interest. Plunge into a high-stakes, pulse-pounding sci-fi thriller where the fate of the human race depends on overcoming our own darkest flaws before the swarm arrives.

The battle has only just begun, and being a hero is far more complicated than the legends claim. Every dragon slayer owes a period of service to the Oil Watch, and young Owen Thorskard is no exception to the rule. But unlike the slayers who came before him, Owen does not face this dangerous enlistment alone. His closest friends have chosen to stand shoulder to shoulder with him, forming an unbreakable team. Steeled by their recent successes and fueled by a fragile hope, the group is confident in their ability to protect the innocent from dragon fire. Siobhan McQuaid, now recognized as the first true bard in a generation, works tirelessly to herald Owen as a new kind of leader for a rapidly changing world. However, the relentless arc of history is deeply scarred by dragon attacks, and twisting it to their will proves to be a nearly impossible task. You will be completely absorbed as they discover the steep price of altering destiny in this fiery, action-packed continuation.

You have already saved the world twice, but the life of a teenage spy allows no time for rest. Now, you face a threat more dangerous than anything you have encountered before. You must battle a desperate and grieving man who has lost everything he cares about and is harboring a massive grudge against the free world. Even worse, this rogue general has managed to get his hands on a live nuclear weapon. To see his country return to dominance, he will stop at nothing to trigger absolute devastation. For the first time, you will unite forces with the American CIA, plunging into an international mission that stretches your skills to the breaking point. You will face terrifying assassins on the sun-baked beaches of Miami and navigate the treacherous, barren ice fields of northernmost Russia. Rely on your wits, your training, and your gadgets to disarm this catastrophic threat before time runs out.

Everything you believed about your family is about to be violently shattered. For your entire life, you have been told you are the spitting image of the father you never knew. But when you discover that he may have been a ruthless assassin for the world's most powerful terrorist organization, Scorpia, your reality crumbles. Desperate for answers, you travel to Italy to confront the criminal syndicate directly. Instead of fighting them, you find yourself dangerously tempted to join their ranks and uncover the dark truth about your past. However, you soon learn of Scorpia's terrifying new plot, an operation known as Invisible Sword that is designed to slaughter thousands of innocent schoolchildren. You must tear yourself away from the seductive pull of your father's legacy and risk everything to prevent this massive catastrophe. Prepare for an intensely emotional, high-stakes thriller where you must decide exactly who you are going to be.

Years after the devastating Bugger War, Ender Wiggin has disappeared into legend. In his place, a powerful new voice has emerged: the Speaker for the Dead, who dares to tell the unfiltered truth about the conflict. Now, humanity has discovered a second alien race. But just like before, these new beings are strange, frightening, and deadly. As tensions rise and humans begin to die, the fragile peace of the galaxy is threatened. There is only one person with the courage to confront this terrifying mystery. The Speaker for the Dead, who is secretly Ender Wiggin himself, must step out of the shadows. To prevent another catastrophic war, he has to face his own haunting past and uncover the profound truth about humanity's strange new brothers. Dive into a gripping, philosophical science fiction masterpiece that challenges everything you think you know about heroes, monsters, and the heavy price of survival.

A terrifying ruler has claimed the lives of three hundred brides, and your village is his next stop. When the dangerous king Lo-Melkhiin arrives in the desert to select his latest wife, one brave girl makes the ultimate sacrifice. Refusing to let her beloved sister be taken, she steps forward to take her place, fully expecting to meet a swift and brutal end within the walls of his treacherous palace. However, as the first sun rises and sets, she discovers she is still breathing. To stay alive, she begins weaving intricate and captivating tales for the king every night. As her stories unfold, a deeply hidden desert magic awakens within her, bringing her words to life and giving her a fighting chance against the monster on the throne. You will be mesmerized by this powerful game of survival, where intellect and imagination are the sharpest weapons. This lush fantasy weaves a breathtaking story about the fierce bonds of sisterhood and the transformative power of a single voice.

You might think you know how every love triangle plays out, but you have never encountered romantic entanglements quite like these. In this thrilling anthology, sixteen of the most acclaimed authors in young adult literature tackle the most debated trope in fiction, twisting it into completely unexpected shapes. Prepare to explore a diverse collection of fresh, original stories that push the boundaries of romance and genre. From a resourceful teen offering kissing lessons to survivors navigating zombies in the Civil War South, these tales are as wildly imaginative as they are heartfelt. You will find vampires lurking in boarding schools, teenagers battling monsters in an abandoned video rental store, and the literal last three people left alive on Earth. Edited by Natalie C. Parker, this collection upends traditional expectations and dives deep into the complicated nature of choice and self-determination. Every story offers a unique, captivating look at love, loyalty, and the impossible decisions that arise when three hearts collide.

Jordan Johnston is tired of blending in. She is not exceptionally tall or short, she is not a math genius, and she is definitely not a star athlete. In a world where everyone else seems to have a remarkable, shiny talent, Jordan feels doomed to a life of being perfectly, boringly average. Determined to stand out before the end of the sixth grade, she makes a firm promise to herself: she will discover her hidden gift and finally become extraordinary. But finding your special talent is a lot harder than it looks. Just when Jordan is ready to give up on her quest for greatness, a sudden and terrifying disaster strikes her school. In the midst of the chaos, Jordan is forced to step up in ways she never imagined. Will her quick thinking and bravery prove that she is far more than just average? This heartwarming and action-packed story celebrates the hidden strengths inside all of us.

Wild mustangs once thundered across the open West, fierce, beautiful, and free. Annie Bronn Johnston cannot forget them. To her, they are not pests or profit; they are living symbols of courage, history, and the untamed land itself. This classic story follows Annie, later known as Wild Horse Annie, as she fights to protect America’s mustangs from cruel roundups and slaughter. Marguerite Henry tells the story with the sweep of an animal adventure and the purpose of a true conservation crusade, showing how one determined person can speak up for creatures that cannot speak for themselves. For readers drawn to horses, American history, and real-life courage, Mustang, Wild Spirit of the West offers a powerful blend of biography, fiction, and environmental concern. It is a story of persistence, compassion, and the fight to keep wild things wild.

Abraham Lincoln did not start out as a famous leader. Long before he became the sixteenth president of the United States, he was a poor boy growing up in the rugged wilderness of Kentucky and Indiana. He lost his mother at a young age and had almost no formal schooling, making his future look quite bleak. Everything changed when his father remarried. Sally Bush Johnston arrived at their log cabin with a library of books and an unshakeable belief in young Abe. Her endless encouragement became the spark that set him on a new path. This inspiring true story reveals how one person's faith can help you rise to surprising heights and change the course of history forever.

Something incredibly strange is happening across the entire galaxy. Spaceships, people, and even whole stars are mysteriously vanishing without a single trace. When the Milky Way Galactic Alliance fails to explain these bizarre disappearances, Roswell Johnson and his trusted alien friends realize it is up to them to solve the cosmic mystery. This action packed sequel takes you on another epic journey through the stars, blending thrilling adventure with plenty of humor and heart. As the crew travels deeper into the unknown, Roswell uncovers a dangerous new technology that threatens the survival of our entire solar system. Even more shocking, he learns that his own connection to the crisis is far deeper than he ever imagined. Join Roswell as he steps up to become the hero the universe needs in a high stakes mission where the fate of the galaxy hangs in the balance.

Eleven-year-old Roswell Johnson has always been obsessed with conspiracies about extraterrestrial life. It is an interest he inherited from his late father, who even named him after the infamous UFO crash in New Mexico! But Roswell's wildest dreams suddenly become reality when he is accidentally abducted by aliens. Not only are extraterrestrials real, but Earth is in grave danger from a tyrannical invasion. To save his home planet, Roswell must team up with a wildly quirky crew of alien misfits. His new squad includes two constantly bickering Grays, a completely humorless Cyborg, a germophobic Mantis, an overly confident Furgarian, and an overachieving Pleiadean. Together, this hilarious and unlikely team must travel across the galaxy, outsmart their enemies, and stop the sinister plot against Earth. Can Roswell restore his faith in humanity and lead his new friends to victory before it is too late? Blast off into this hilarious, action-packed sci-fi adventure filled with teamwork, cosmic mysteries, and out-of-this-world fun!

Before he was one of the biggest stars in movies, Dwayne Johnson was a kid surrounded by wrestling, hard work, and big dreams. Who Is Dwayne The Rock Johnson? follows his journey from a family with deep roots in professional wrestling to the ring where he became The Rock, one of the most famous performers in sports entertainment. Readers then follow his leap into Hollywood, where his strength, humor, and determination helped him become a worldwide movie star. This fast-moving biography is perfect for readers who enjoy sports, movies, and real-life stories about persistence. It shows how Johnson built a career across two demanding worlds and became known not only for his action roles, but also for his energy, confidence, and larger-than-life personality.

Lonnie Johnson always had a brilliant mind for rockets, robots, and big ideas. Growing up in a busy house full of brothers and sisters, he learned early on how to persist through challenges and solve tricky problems. This passion for figuring out how things work led him to a successful career as an engineer, eventually designing important systems for NASA. But his most famous creation happened completely by mistake. While trying to invent a new cooling system for spacecraft, Lonnie accidentally designed the mechanics for the Super Soaker water gun. This fun, fascinating true story shows how a love for science and a creative spirit led to one of the most popular toys of all time. You will discover how asking questions, testing ideas, and never giving up can lead to the biggest splashes of success.

Have you ever felt so lonely you wished you could send a message to the stars? Willie Johnson did. Born in Texas in 1897, Willie loved to sing and play his homemade guitar. When he lost his sight as a young boy, his world went dark. Fortunately, music brought him back into the light. His powerful voice and wailing guitar helped him share his feelings. He played on street corners and eventually became a famous recording artist. His music was so moving that in 1977, his song was chosen to travel into space on the Voyager probe. It was sent to light up the universe and remind us all that we are never truly alone. This inspiring story shows you how one boy turned his struggles into a song that reaches across the galaxy.

Dawnie Rae Johnson is good at baseball, strong in the classroom, and used to standing her ground. But in 1955 Hadley, Virginia, her life changes when she becomes the first African American student to attend the all-white Prettyman Coburn school. Suddenly, every hallway, lesson, and school day carries pressure. Dawnie must face unfairness while holding on to the parts of herself that make her bold, curious, and determined. Her story shows how history is not only made by famous leaders, but also by children asked to be brave before they feel ready. With the Might of Angels is a middle grade historical novel about school integration, courage, family, and dignity during the Civil Rights era. It is a compelling choice for readers who like realistic stories shaped by real historical struggles.

All he ever wanted to do was fly. From the dusty dirt roads of Alabama to the sprawling skies of Europe, one young boy's boundless love of flight carries him toward a destiny he never could have imagined. Discover the incredible journey of the Tuskegee Airmen, the brave and under-celebrated heroes of World War II. Through soaring words and sweeping imagery, readers will experience the immense courage of these real-life aviators who changed the world. This inspiring picture book honors a vital piece of American history and the power of holding onto a dream, showing every child that the sky is truly the limit.

In the bright morning light, a little girl watches her big sister Kyla tapping at the birds outside the window. Whatever Kyla does, her younger sister wants to do exactly the same. From the start of the day until the sun goes down, it is a joyful game of follow the leader between two best friends. Whether they are walking to the store or playing in the yard, the little sister is right behind her. But when evening finally arrives, it might just be Kyla's turn to follow. This warm and deeply affectionate picture book perfectly captures the special bond and quiet magic of sisterhood.

Three best friends have always shared everything, but their unbreakable bond is about to face its ultimate test. Nina, Avery, and Mel have navigated the ups and downs of high school together, forming a trio they affectionately call the Bermudez Triangle. When Nina leaves town for a summer leadership program, Avery and Mel are left behind to spend the summer working together. Without their usual dynamic, the relationship between Avery and Mel shifts in ways none of them expected. The two girls fall in love, creating a secret that threatens to alter their friendship forever. When Nina returns, the new reality forces all three to confront their feelings, their identities, and the changing landscape of their lives. Navigate the complex and emotional journey of first love, shifting loyalties, and the beautiful, messy reality of growing up. This heartfelt story captures the intense bonds of teenage friendship and the courage it takes to figure out who you truly are.

Jackson Greene promised he was completely done with scheming. He is officially retired from the middle school con game. But when the local school bully Keith Sinclair announces he is running for Student Council president against Jackson's former best friend Gaby, retirement is no longer an option. Keith has powerful connections to the principal that practically guarantee him the win, regardless of the actual vote count. Jackson knows he cannot sit back and let that happen. To ensure a fair election and maybe win back Gaby's respect, he needs to pull off the ultimate school scheme. Jackson pulls together a legendary crew: a tech genius, a massive bankroller, a science expert, and a top-notch reporter. They have one shot to outsmart Keith, navigate the chaotic middle school halls unnoticed, and execute the most complicated political heist Maplewood Middle School has ever seen. Can this crew of unlikely friends pull off the perfect con, or will Jackson's return to his old ways end in total disaster?

There is a sweet smell of roses in the air as two young girls quietly slip out of their house. Down the street and across town, they join a gathering crowd of men and women who are ready to march for freedom and justice. Inspired by the countless youth who stood up against inequality, this moving picture book highlights the vital role children played in the Civil Rights Movement. It is a powerful and uplifting look at how even the youngest voices can help change the course of history, reminding readers that bravery and hope belong to people of all ages.

When Maya's grandfather visits from Alaska, he brings a large crate containing a special surprise. He says it will teach her all about fun and sharing. Maya crosses her fingers for a horse or maybe an older brother, but what steps out is Julius, a massive and incredibly cool pink pig. While her parents might see Julius as a messy slob, Maya sees something completely different. She sees a loyal protector, a playful companion, and a friend who makes every single day wild and magical. This hilarious and joyful picture book is a perfect celebration of love, unexpected friendship, and sharing.

Artie Kingfisher’s connection to King Arthur has pulled him deep into a dangerous magical struggle, and The Dragon King raises the stakes for readers ready for a fast-moving middle grade fantasy adventure. Ancient power, hidden worlds, and legendary enemies press closer as Artie faces the kind of challenge no ordinary twelve-year-old should have to carry. If you like quests filled with magic, danger, and Arthurian legend, this story draws you into a world where courage matters as much as destiny. Artie must keep learning what it means to lead, trust others, and face forces much larger than himself, all while the fate of the Otherworld hangs in the balance.

Did you know that long ago, some amazing baseball players weren't allowed to play in the Major Leagues just because of the color of their skin? But that didn't stop them from playing the game they loved! "What Were the Negro Leagues?" invites you to discover the incredible story of these brave and talented athletes. Even when faced with unfair rules, African American players and owners built their very own baseball leagues. You'll meet legends like powerful slugger Josh Gibson, amazing pitcher Satchel Paige, and, of course, the legendary Jackie Robinson, who would later change baseball forever. Learn how these courageous men played with heart and skill, overcoming challenges to create a vibrant and exciting part of baseball history. Their journey shows us the power of teamwork, perseverance, and standing up for what's right. Get ready to cheer for these heroes and their unforgettable stories!

Ann and Ben are strolling along the seashore when they discover something absolutely incredible about the sand beneath their feet. When they use a stick to write a word near the water, the sweeping tide washes the letters away and leaves the real object right there on the beach. It starts with simple things, but soon their spelling creates an entire bustling world full of surprises and unexpected adventures. You will join these two siblings as they spell their way into a whimsical journey, creating a landscape entirely from their own vocabulary and imagination. Every wave brings a brand new creation directly from their minds into the real world. This clever story captures the pure magic of words and the endless possibilities of a day at the beach, showing you exactly how powerful a playful imagination can truly be.

True-crime aficionado Stevie Bell is packing her bags for Ellingham Academy, a prestigious private school in Vermont with a dark and legendary past. Founded by an eccentric tycoon who designed the campus as a playground of riddles and secret pathways, the school became infamous when the founder's wife and daughter were kidnapped. The only clue left behind was a mocking riddle signed by a figure calling themselves Truly Devious. Now, Stevie is determined to solve this famous cold case during her first year. But before she can untangle the mysteries of the past, the present demands her attention. Her eccentric housemates are a handful, and school life is demanding. Then, the unthinkable happens. Truly Devious makes a shocking return, and death once again strikes the academy. Step into a twisting, atmospheric puzzle where the past and present brilliantly collide. You will be kept guessing at every turn as Stevie navigates a brilliant web of lies, hidden clues, and a ruthless killer who is always one step ahead.

Take a gentle journey into the future with a touching story about the special bond between a grandchild and a grandparent. In this sweet tale, a young girl dreams about what life will be like when she finally grows old alongside her beloved Grandaddy. You can imagine all the wonderful things they will do together, from sitting comfortably on the porch and eating bacon to playing card games all day long. Their shared adventures even take them to the edge of the ocean. Experience a heartwarming reflection on family, love, and the simple joys of spending time with the people who matter most. This tender narrative celebrates the beauty of family traditions and the quiet moments that build lasting memories across generations.