Judith Rose Sacks

Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr had lives that looked like a mirror image of one another. Both boys were orphaned at a young age, yet they both grew up to be brilliant students who studied law at prestigious colleges. When the American Revolution broke out, both men eagerly became war heroes while serving as young staff officers under George Washington. With so much in common, they both rose to massive power in the newly formed government. So how did two incredibly similar men become such bitter enemies? This fast-paced biography jumps back and forth between their intertwined lives, leading up to the shocking morning they faced each other with loaded pistols. Discover the intense rivalry that ended with a deadly duel and changed American politics forever.

In the spring of 1776, General George Washington walked into a small upholstery shop in Philadelphia with a massive request. He needed the shop owner, Betsy Ross, to sew a brand new flag that could unite thirteen rebellious colonies in a dangerous fight against Great Britain. While history remembers her for that famous flag, Betsy Ross was much more than just a seamstress. She was a fiercely independent woman who survived the loss of three husbands, raised seven daughters, and successfully ran her own business for over fifty years during a time of constant war. This inspiring biography reveals the true strength of a self-reliant patriot whose everyday courage helped shape the foundation of a brand new nation.

True friendship means knowing all of someone's worst habits and liking them anyway. Rosie and Michael are best friends, and they are not afraid to be honest about it. Michael knows that Rosie can be bossy and sometimes completely strange. Rosie knows that Michael is a little bit goofy and makes terrible jokes. But even when they drive each other crazy, they always have each other's backs. Whether they are sharing secrets, trading lunches, or standing up to bullies, their bond is completely unbreakable. This sweet and honest story celebrates the real meaning of having a best friend. It shows that you do not have to be absolutely perfect to be wonderful to someone else. You will love seeing how Rosie and Michael stick together through all the ups and downs of life.

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.

Ellen and William Craft began their escape from slavery with a plan so dangerous that one mistake could destroy everything. Traveling from Georgia toward freedom, they had to move through a world built to stop them, relying on courage, disguise, intelligence, and absolute trust in each other. 5000 Miles to Freedom tells the true story of the Crafts’ flight from slavery and their later role in the abolitionist movement. Written for older middle grade and teen readers, the book places their journey within the brutal realities of slavery, the Fugitive Slave Act, and the national conflict over freedom. Archival images and historical materials support a tense, carefully researched narrative about resistance, partnership, and the risks people took to claim their own lives.

Ida B. Wells used words as a weapon against injustice. Born into a nation still shaped by slavery and racial violence, she became a journalist, activist, and fearless public speaker whose work challenged lies, exposed brutality, and demanded civil rights. This biography for teen readers follows Wells’s fight against lynching, her role in Black women’s suffrage, and her place among the major reformers of American history. The book presents her courage without softening the dangers she faced, making it a serious and compelling account for readers ready to examine racism, journalism, activism, and moral courage. With historical context, back matter, and a focused narrative, it is a powerful introduction to a woman who would not be silenced.

Mary Church Terrell fought segregation with learning, strategy, persistence, and a refusal to accept second-class citizenship. The daughter of a formerly enslaved man, she became one of the most educated Black women of her generation and used her voice in schools, organizations, speeches, and protests. Fight On! introduces teen readers to Terrell’s long life of activism, from her work in education and civil rights to her role among leaders such as Frederick Douglass, Susan B. Anthony, Paul Laurence Dunbar, and Ida B. Wells. The biography gives special attention to her battle for integration in Washington, D.C., showing how determination across a lifetime can help change public life. With endnotes, bibliography, and index, it is a serious and inspiring nonfiction account for readers studying civil rights, women’s history, and American reform movements.

Do you ever wake up and just know it's going to be one of *those* days? That's exactly how Alexander feels! His day starts with gum stuck in his hair, and from there, things just keep getting worse. He doesn't get the window seat in the car, his best friend doesn't want to play, and he even gets in trouble at school. It seems like absolutely nothing is going Alexander's way, all the way down to lima beans for dinner!

Zora Neale Hurston refused to shrink herself to fit anyone else’s idea of what a writer should be. Zora! follows the bold, brilliant life of the author and folklorist who helped shape the Harlem Renaissance and later became one of the most important voices in American literature. This teen biography traces Hurston’s journey through ambition, creativity, poverty, criticism, and persistence. Readers meet a woman who collected Black Southern folklore, wrote with fierce originality, moved among major literary figures, and kept working even when recognition did not come easily. Judith Bloom Fradin and Dennis B. Fradin present her life with respect for both her dazzling confidence and the obstacles she faced, making this a strong choice for readers interested in literature, Black history, women’s history, and artists who changed how America tells its stories.

It is the freezing winter of 1856, and John Price has just made a daring escape. Crossing the icy Ohio River from Kentucky, he seeks refuge in the town of Oberlin, Ohio. At a time when the Fugitive Slave Act is strictly enforced across the country, the people of Oberlin hold a powerful belief that every person deserves to be free. John begins to build a new life in this welcoming community, but danger is never far behind. When ruthless slave catchers arrive in town and capture John, the residents of Oberlin do not just stand by. They join forces in a dramatic and risky showdown, putting their own lives and freedom on the line to demand his release. This true story reveals how ordinary people can come together to fight against injustice. Step back in time to witness a remarkable moment in history, beautifully brought to life through captivating artwork. You will discover how one man's pursuit of freedom helped ignite a movement that changed the nation forever.

Alexander was rich last Sunday. He had a whole dollar. But then he bought some bubble gum. And he made some bets with his brothers that he did not win. And he even rented a friend's snake for an hour. Now, Alexander only has a pocket full of bus tokens. Having a dollar is a very big deal, but making it last is much harder than it looks! When you have money, you want to buy a walkie-talkie or maybe a half-made model car. But somehow, those pennies and nickels just seem to magically slip away. This funny story shows exactly what happens when you get a little bit of money and a whole lot of silly ideas. You will laugh out loud as Alexander tries his best to save, only to watch his riches disappear coin by coin. It is a perfect tale for anyone who has ever wondered where their allowance went.

Meet Lulu. She is a girl who always, always, always gets exactly what she wants. So when she decides she wants a pet brontosaurus for her birthday, she expects to get one. But for the very first time, her parents say no! Lulu is furious. She packs her tiny suitcase and stomps off into the dark, mysterious forest to find a dinosaur of her very own. Lulu is not afraid of wild animals or creepy woods. She is a girl on a mission. But what happens when she actually finds a giant brontosaurus? It turns out that this massive creature thinks having a pet is a wonderful idea. The only problem is, the dinosaur wants Lulu to be his pet! This hilarious adventure flips everything upside down. You will be on the edge of your seat watching this incredibly stubborn girl face off against a polite but determined dinosaur. It is a wildly funny journey packed with surprising twists, showing that sometimes getting exactly what you ask for is a terrible idea. Will Lulu finally learn her lesson, or will she be stuck playing fetch for a giant reptile forever?

Do you have what it takes to change the world? Discover the incredible true stories behind some of the most fascinating creations in history. You will meet famous historical figures like Thomas Edison and Benjamin Franklin, but you will also learn about the lesser known geniuses who gave us everyday marvels like Velcro and the technology behind satellite communications. Whether you are a quiet daydreamer or a daring risk taker, this witty and spirited look at history shows that anyone with a clever idea and plenty of determination can create something amazing. Packed with brilliant facts and brought to life with incredibly engaging illustrations, this journey through the history of innovation will inspire your own creativity. You might just close these pages ready to sketch out the next great invention yourself.

Have you ever wondered what it takes to run a whole country? Step inside the most famous house in America and discover the wild, funny, and surprisingly human facts about the men who have held the highest office in the land. From George Washington to modern leaders, you will find out that presidents come in all shapes, sizes, and personalities. Some had pet alligators, while others could not stop making terrible jokes. Through hilarious portraits and incredibly fun facts, you will see the quirks, triumphs, and everyday habits of these powerful leaders. This brilliantly illustrated, award-winning history book brings the past to life in a way that is guaranteed to make you laugh and think. You will quickly learn that there is no single right way to be a leader, and maybe, just maybe, you have what it takes to take the job yourself.

Imagine walking outside on a seemingly normal winter day, only to have the ground suddenly and violently sway beneath your feet. Without any warning, your entire world is rocked by terrifying forces deep within the planet. This was the frightening reality for people caught in the second strongest earthquake in recorded history. Experience the heart pounding moments of the 1964 Alaskan quake, a massive disaster that triggered deadly ocean waves and changed the landscape forever. Through real eyewitness accounts, you will step directly into the chaos and destruction of nature's most unpredictable events. Beyond the incredible survival stories, you will uncover the fascinating science behind why the earth shakes. Explore the deep underground movements that cause these massive tremors and learn how scientists are working tirelessly to predict them and save lives. From historical tragedies to modern geology, this exploration of earthquakes will leave you with a profound respect for the raw power of our shifting planet.

Connecting two massive oceans was once considered an impossible dream. For centuries, explorers and engineers stared at the narrow strip of land in Panama and wondered if a water passage could ever be carved through the dense jungles and treacherous terrain. Dive into the fascinating history behind one of the greatest engineering marvels of the modern world. You will trace the incredible journey of the Panama Canal, starting from the early days when Christopher Columbus first anchored off the coast, all the way to the monumental United States treaties in 1977. Discover the bold ideas, the massive machines, and the sheer human determination that finally split a continent in two and forever changed global travel.

Imagine trying to transport a towering, long-necked giraffe across land and sea long before airplanes or trucks were invented. Zarafa is a beautiful and gentle giraffe who has just been offered as a magnificent gift from the ruler of Egypt to the king of France. Her journey is nothing short of incredible. Zarafa sails up the Nile River, crosses the treacherous sea on a sailing ship, and then literally walks the final five hundred miles straight into Paris. Along the way, she becomes a beloved celebrity, greeted by cheering crowds who have never seen such a wondrous creature. This delightful true story brings to life a remarkable historical adventure that will capture your imagination from beginning to end.

When Meriwether Lewis and William Clark set out to explore the uncharted American West, they faced a dangerous and wildly unpredictable landscape. But their famous Journey of Discovery might have ended in disaster if they had not met a remarkable young Shoshone woman named Sacagawea. Traveling with her husband and carrying her infant son, Sacagawea became an essential guide, peacemaker, and interpreter for the expedition. She helped the explorers navigate raging river rapids, survive fierce blizzards, find vital food, and peacefully communicate with the native tribes they encountered along the way. This gripping biography reveals the true story of a resilient and courageous woman who rightfully earned her place as a true hero in American history.

A quiet daily stroll through the stunning Kew Gardens quickly turns into an adventure that defies the laws of time. A ten-year-old American girl suddenly finds herself magically transported back to the year 1805, completely leaving her modern world behind. As she explores the grounds of Kew Palace, she unexpectedly crosses paths with Princess Charlotte Augusta, the real-life future queen of England. The two girls from completely different centuries must navigate the royal grounds and figure out what to do next. This captivating story blends fantasy with fascinating history, offering you a front-row seat to a royal friendship that stretches across hundreds of years.

How can your underwear be sad? It happens when your best friend is mad at you, and suddenly everything in the whole world feels gloomy! This amazing collection of poems captures all the wonderfully weird, hilarious, and confusing moments of growing up. From dealing with pesky siblings and worrying about school, to wondering about the future and managing those giant emotions, these verses explore the everyday adventures of being a kid. You will meet kids who want to run away, kids who refuse to eat their vegetables, and kids who just cannot understand why parents make such strange rules. These poems are packed with sharp humor and real heart, making you laugh out loud on one page and nod along in total understanding on the next. It is the perfect read for anyone who has ever felt a little out of place or completely misunderstood. Dive into these clever rhymes to find out why growing up is the most complicated, frustrating, and incredibly funny journey you will ever take.

Helen Keller was just six years old and struggling to communicate with the world when she crossed paths with Dr. Alexander Graham Bell. While most people know Bell as the brilliant inventor of the telephone, few realize the profound impact he had on young Helen's life. Their eventful first meeting sparked a beautiful, lifelong friendship. It was Dr. Bell who guided Helen's parents to find a specialized teacher, ultimately connecting them with Annie Sullivan. Through carefully preserved letters and shared moments, this touching biography explores the parallel lives of two historical giants who supported each other through immense public challenges and deeply personal triumphs.

What exactly does it take to become a world-class explorer? For thousands of years, daring individuals have pushed past the edges of the known map to discover incredible secrets hidden in jungles, oceans, and caves. You have probably heard of famous travelers like Christopher Columbus, but what about Mary Kingsley, who fearlessly studied remote tribes in Africa? Or Cowboy Jim White, who accidentally stumbled upon the breathtaking Carlsbad Caverns? From brave astronauts launching into space to mountain climbers scaling icy peaks, this witty and wonderfully illustrated book celebrates the curious adventurers who paved the way. Dive into these true tales and discover how you might just have the heart of an explorer yourself.

Imagine stepping into the deep wilderness with no map, no modern tools, and an entire uncharted continent ahead of you. On May 21, 1804, Meriwether Lewis and William Clark did exactly that, leading their famous Corps of Discovery out of Missouri and into the vast unknown. Their mission was to explore the massive new territory the United States had just bought in the Louisiana Purchase. They hoped to find a simple water route that connected the eastern country all the way to the Pacific Ocean. While they never found that magical river, what they did discover was even more incredible. Follow along on their grueling two year journey through dangerous weather, towering mountains, and breathtaking landscapes. This true adventure tale brings you face to face with the incredible survival skills, brave choices, and legendary teamwork that finally brought these famous explorers to the edge of the western sea.

As a young boy, George Washington thought his future was already decided. He planned to live a quiet, comfortable life as a Virginia gentleman, just like his older brother. But an unexpected opportunity to work as a surveyor's assistant in the rugged wilderness changed everything. The journey was extremely difficult and often dangerous, pushing young George to his physical limits. Despite his exhaustion, he discovered a deep inner grit and a love for the outdoors. This pivotal trek proved to be the major turning point of his life, transforming him into the tough, courageous leader who would eventually guide an army to victory and become the first president of the United States.

Imagine trekking thousands of miles through uncharted wilderness, crossing rushing rivers and towering mountains, all while carrying a newborn baby on your back! That is exactly what Sacagawea did when she was only sixteen years old. This exciting biography tells the true story of the brave Shoshone teenager who made one of the most remarkable journeys in American history. When explorers Meriwether Lewis and William Clark set out to map the western United States, they needed help surviving the rugged terrain and communicating with local tribes. Without Sacagawea's incredible knowledge, quick thinking, and translation skills, their famous expedition might have failed completely. You will follow her thrilling 4,500-mile adventure by foot, canoe, and horse across the country. Discover why this brilliant young woman is still celebrated more than two hundred years later, and learn the inspiring reasons why her face was immortalized on the golden dollar coin.

It is the week before Halloween, and someone is ruining all the fun. Across the neighborhood, perfectly carved jack-o'-lanterns are being smashed to pieces in the middle of the night, leaving a massive, orange mess everywhere. Mary Grace is determined to save her favorite holiday, but she knows she cannot solve this spooky mystery on her own. With the help of her clever imaginary friend, Nellie, the two set up a plan to catch the destructive culprit red-handed. Grab your flashlight and join Mary Grace as she goes on a tricky neighborhood stakeout to stop the mysterious pumpkin smasher before Halloween night is ruined for good.

Growing up on a large, beautiful estate, young Franklin Roosevelt enjoyed the finest things life had to offer. Between sailing on the water, riding fast horses, and attending elegant foxhunts, his path seemed completely set. He was supposed to simply become a wealthy gentleman like his beloved papa. However, Franklin soon realized that the world was much larger than his family's grand property. Inspired by a famous uncle and a wise mentor, he began to question the rules of high society. Why couldn't a wealthy gentleman roll up his sleeves and dive into the messy world of politics? This vibrant picture book uncovers the exact moments that inspired a privileged young boy to change his destiny and eventually become one of America's most honored presidents.

In the nineteenth century, the idea of spanning the churning waters of the East River seemed entirely impossible. Engineers and ordinary citizens alike looked at the massive divide between Brooklyn and Manhattan and declared that a bridge simply could not be built there. Yet, a visionary team of engineers decided to prove the entire world wrong. This deeply researched historical account takes you straight to the construction site of the legendary Brooklyn Bridge. Through contemporary illustrations and gripping details, you will witness the dangerous underwater work, the political battles, and the brilliant architectural breakthroughs that finally brought two bustling cities together and created a permanent American icon.

Sitting Bull is mostly remembered by history books for his immense physical courage and his legendary skills as a fierce warrior. But behind his reputation on the battlefield was a deeply compassionate leader facing the greatest crisis his people had ever known. As the Sioux were being aggressively driven from their ancestral lands, Sitting Bull had to use every ounce of his intelligence to negotiate and protect his community. This meticulous and captivating biography paints a complete picture of a complex man. You will meet the loving father, the dramatic showman, and the shrewd diplomat who fought tirelessly to preserve the dignity and survival of his nation against overwhelming odds.

In August 2005, a monstrous storm gathered strength over the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico, setting its sights on the southern coast of the United States. When Hurricane Katrina finally made landfall, it brought devastating winds and towering floods that forever changed New Orleans and the surrounding coastal communities. Step into the eye of the storm to understand one of the most critical and heartbreaking moments in modern American history. Through gripping details and real life accounts, you will witness the terrifying power of the hurricane and the massive failure of the levees meant to protect the city. You will also see the incredible bravery of everyday people who risked everything to save their neighbors from the rising waters. Uncover the difficult lessons learned from this natural disaster and see how it influenced the future of emergency response and weather science. This is a story of nature's fierce fury, human resilience, and a city determined to rebuild against all odds.

The job of leading a nation comes with incredible power, but also terrifying risks. Throughout American history, the men who have sat in the Oval Office have often found themselves squarely in the crosshairs of danger. This gripping examination details the intense and often shocking true stories behind the four successful and seven unsuccessful assassination attempts on the lives of American presidents. You will explore the tragic final days of Lincoln, Garfield, McKinley, and Kennedy, as well as the intense, foiled plots against leaders like Theodore Roosevelt and Ronald Reagan. Step behind the scenes of history's darkest moments to understand exactly what happens when the commander in chief is placed directly in the line of fire.

Deep beneath the surface of the earth, intense heat and pressure are constantly building. When the rock gets hot enough to melt, it looks for an escape route, often resulting in a spectacular and dangerous explosion. Discover the awesome, fiery power of the world's most active mountains. From the massive ash clouds of the 2010 Icelandic eruption that grounded airplanes across Europe to the deadliest historical blasts, this journey takes you right to the edge of the crater. Read heart pounding true stories from scientists who study these smoking giants and thrill seekers who get too close to the molten lava. You will uncover the fascinating science behind why volcanoes erupt, what different types of lava exist, and how communities recover after the ash settles. See firsthand what researchers are doing right now to predict the next big explosion and keep people safe from the fierce, fiery fury hidden just beneath our feet.

Everyone knows the Declaration of Independence is the beating heart of the United States. But did you know this highly respected piece of parchment has survived a wild, action-packed adventure of its own? Since Thomas Jefferson first put his quill to paper in 1776, this single document has been rolled up, secretly hidden away, and carted across the country. It has bravely traveled by galloping horseback, bouncing mail truck, rattling railroad car, and even a heavy military tank. It escaped two entire British invasions and somehow survived centuries of unpredictable events. This wonderfully illustrated and incredibly witty book reveals the true, little-known story of the invincible document that fought just as hard for its own survival as the nation did for its freedom.

Building a brand new democracy is not an easy job, and it certainly cannot be done alone. While John Adams was busy helping to shape the United States from a rebellious British colony into an independent nation, his most trusted advisor was miles away: his wife, Abigail. Through years of long separations and extreme political turmoil, John and Abigail maintained an incredibly powerful partnership. By examining the actual, heartfelt letters they sent back and forth, this biography pulls back the curtain on a legendary marriage. You will discover how their profound love, mutual respect, and brilliant debates behind closed doors directly influenced the foundation of the country you live in today.

It is extremely early, the sun is barely peeking through the windows, and mom and dad are still fast asleep. What are two energetic brothers supposed to do while they wait? Make a gigantic mess, of course! These two boys know they are supposed to stay quiet, but staying out of trouble is incredibly hard. From sneaking into the kitchen to exploring every corner of the house, their morning turns into a wild, noisy adventure. One tiny accident leads to another, and before long, the whole house is turned completely upside down. You will giggle as you watch their hilarious antics and sneaky plans unfold. This funny, relatable story captures that exact feeling of trying to be good but somehow making a massive disaster instead. It is the perfect weekend read!

Crazy Horse is celebrated in history books as the brilliant Oglala Sioux warrior who stunningly defeated General George Armstrong Custer at the Battle of the Little Bighorn. But behind the fierce military strategies and the legendary victories was a surprisingly quiet and deeply modest man. This absorbing historical biography takes you past the battlefield to explore the true heart of the Plains people. Crazy Horse's primary concern was never personal glory; his life's mission was always the safety and well-being of his community. Step into the harsh realities of the American West and discover the extraordinary, complex story of a leader who dedicated his entire existence to protecting the only home his people had ever known.

Jane Addams believed democracy had to be lived, not just talked about. Through Hull House, reform work, suffrage activism, civil rights efforts, and peace advocacy, she helped redefine what public service could look like in modern America. This well-researched teen biography explores Addams as more than a famous reformer. It shows a woman willing to take unpopular stands, including her pacifist work during a time of war, and follows the choices that made her both controversial and widely respected. Judith Bloom Fradin and Dennis B. Fradin draw on historical documents and archival photographs to present a thoughtful portrait of a social activist whose work touched immigration, poverty, women’s rights, civil liberties, and international peace. It is a strong choice for readers interested in democracy, reform, and women who changed public life.

Having an older brother is not easy, especially when his name is Anthony. Anthony is bigger, he runs faster, and he always seems to win every single game. He never lets his little brother forget who is in charge. But just wait. Someday, things are going to change! This little brother has a giant plan. When he finally turns six, he is going to be the boss. He imagines all the brilliant, hilarious ways he will finally get the upper hand and show Anthony who is truly the best. He will be stronger, smarter, and completely unstoppable. You will laugh at his wild daydreams and secret plots for revenge. This totally relatable story captures the classic struggle of being the younger sibling. It is a fantastic tale for anyone who has ever wished they could shrink their older brother down to size!

Moving into a new house is always tough, but it is a lot weirder when your new home is the White House. KayKay Granger and her sister, Annie, have just moved in following their mother's presidential inauguration, and they quickly discover that living under tight security isn't very fun. Everything changes when they hear a spine-tingling rumor: the White House might actually be haunted. After spotting a ghostly figure lingering around the famous Lincoln bedroom, KayKay realizes this isn't just an old story. Determined to get to the bottom of the spookiness, the sisters team up to uncover who is haunting the halls. But catching a presidential ghost might be much more than they bargained for.

Lulu is furious. Her parents are going on a luxurious vacation without her, leaving her stuck at home. To make matters worse, they have hired a brand new babysitter named Ms. Sonia Sofia Solinsky. Lulu has a strict rule about babysitters: she gets rid of them as fast as possible. Lulu unleashes her absolute worst behavior. She whines, she stomps, and she plans the ultimate tantrums to send this new babysitter packing. But Ms. Solinsky is not like any other sitter Lulu has ever faced. She does not flinch at the shouting, and she completely ignores the bad behavior. Even more shockingly, this strict babysitter seems to have a massive, unbelievable secret hidden right up her sleeve. You will be laughing on every page as the ultimate prankster meets her match. It is a hilarious battle of wills packed with surprises. Discover what happens when a girl who always gets her way runs directly into a babysitter who knows exactly how to handle her. Will Lulu win, or is she finally in over her head?