November 2018

Why does the space program fascinate everyone around the world? When we look at space, we see how little we know as humans and realize how much we can accomplish together. Aldrin’s delightful, succinct collection of life lessons (presented with author Ken Abraham) reminds us of Seneca’s wisdom: “It is not because things are difficult that we do not dare. It is because we do not dare that things are difficult.” Highly-inspiring.

Award-winning collection of poems that explores the darker side of divisions and developments, the interstitial spaces of boonies, backstage, bathhouse, and bar. With witty banter, emotional resolve and powerful lyricism, this collection evokes all emotions and reminds us why poetry matters.

O’Conner unties the knottiest grammar tangles and displays the same lively humor that has charmed and enlightened grateful readers for years. With chapters on spelling and punctuation and fresh insights into the rights, wrongs, and maybes of English grammar and usage, this “grammarphobe’s guide to better English” offers down-to-earth explanations and plain-English solutions to the language mysteries that bedevil all of us.

Hidden gem! Perfect for car trips with disengaged teens, this “guide” provides a plethora of cow facts so even the novice can identify and get to know America's fifty-two breeds of cattle. If that sounds random, I assure you that every entry in this entertaining yet completely usable book features fascinating cow trivia that is always informative, often amazing and usually amusing. Indispensable companion for would-be cow tippers, farmers, city folk, agriculturalists, interstate drivers, 4-H'ers, vacationing families, and everyone who likes to moo at cows.

A mix-up of cell phones should be easy to fix, but not for Keeley and Talon. The two wind up falling for each other, only for Keeley to realize that Talon is also “TJ,” the football nemesis of her twin brother. A delightful romantic tangle that makes for quick reading.

From acclaimed teen author Cory Doctorow – with captivating illustrations by cartoonist Jen Wang, this book terrific graphic novel offers a sensitive, thoughtful look at adolescence, gaming, poverty, and culture-clash that is sure to be a hit with your girls.

Heck is used to getting by on his own; his mother is unreliable, at best. But even a boy with a rich imagination is going to have a tough time managing when he and his mother find themselves without a home. It’s a good thing Heck has wit, strength, and a lot of optimism. Perfect for middle schoolers.

Have a boy that is a reluctant reader? The popular sportswriter Lupica ranks with Matt Christopher, Gordon Korman and Dan Gutman as a perfect “gateway drug” writer, meaning his books create readers out of even the most stubborn boys.

Amy Anne is shy and soft-spoken, but don’t mess with her when it comes to her favorite book in the whole world. When a well-meaning parent challenges a book, the fourth grade heroine fights back in this stirring defense against censorship that’s perfect for upper elementary school students.

Two of the best ways to attract reluctant readers to picture books is with animals and robots, and this book is loaded with both! Ideal for STEM teachers.