Synergy: Celebrating Animals

ANIMALS are living things that move, feed, and react to the world through their senses. These organisms include mammals, insects, reptiles, and birds. Animals may be wild or domestic.

To understand a concept, it’s useful to read a cluster of books related to a theme. Explore these recently published books for young people:

HOW OLD IS A WHALE? ANIMAL LIFE SPANS FROM THE MAYFLY TO THE IMMORTAL JELLYFISH written by Lily Murray and illustrated by Jesse Hodgson is a picture book exploring the life spans of a wide range of animals. After an introduction to time on Earth, readers explore twenty seven animals. Each two-page spread provides an introduction to the creature’s life span, then uses blocks of text and colorful illustrations to examine its life. ARC courtesy of Big Picture Press, an imprint of Penguin Random House.

ODD COUPLES written by Maria Birmingham and illustrated by Raz Latif is a picture book exploring creatures that share an interesting characteristic. Each two-page spread asks or answers the question “What could this odd couple have in common?” From den digging practices to methods of communication, readers learn about the commonalities between very different animals. ARC courtesy of Owlkids, Ingram Publishers.

DAYTIME AND NIGHTTIME: EXPLORE THE EARTH’S HABITATS DURING THE DAY AND NIGHT written by Michael Bright and illustrated by Nic Jones is an interactive flip picture book exploring life in a variety of habitats during day and at night. From the African savanna to the Australian outback, readers examine a dozen locations including cities. In addition, readers learn about life at dawn and dusk. ARC courtesy of words & pictures, Quarto Group.

Synergy: Celebrating Invention

INVENTION is the act of creating something original such as a process or device. The term invention is also used to describe something that has been invented. Generally, an invention is considered something that hasn’t been made before. It’s totally unique and based on new ideas. It’s a product of imagination.

To understand a concept, it’s useful to read a cluster of books related to a theme. Explore these recently published books for young people:

COPY THAT, COPY CAT! written by Katrina Tangen and illustrated by Giulia Orecchia shares inventions inspired by animals. The author is effective in introducing concepts related to biology and biomimicry through easy to understand examples. The colorful collage illustrations and predictable format will appeal to young picture book readers. The interactive flaps encourage additional engagement. ARC courtesy of Barefoot Books.

OPEN SCIENCE: KNOWLEDGE FOR EVERYONE written by Monique Polak and illustrated by Catherine Chan introduces middle-grade readers to the concept of open science and the importance of collaboration in STEM. By tracing the benefits of sharing scientific research through history, readers learn how even young citizen scientists can have a positive impact. Useful blocks of text, photographs, diagrams, and other illustrations add to the appeal. ARC courtesy of Orca Book Publishers.

GLITTER EVERYWHERE written by Chris Barton and illustrated by Chaaya Prabhat explores where glitter came from, where it’s found, and where it’s going. This attractive nonfiction picture book connects glitter with science and history uncovering fascinating facts and encouraging children to think about the pros and cons of this shiny confetti. ARC courtesy of Charlesbridge, an imprint of Penguin Random House.

OPERATION CUPCAKE by Bambi Edlund is an engaging picture book demonstrating how simple machines work. In this engaging picture book, readers follow an adorable group of critters overcoming obstacles to invent the ultimate cupcake swiping machine. Readers learn about each of the six types of simple machines and its role in solving a particular problem. The ingenious story along with the easy-to-understand explanations are perfect for the target audience. ARC courtesy of Kids Can Press, an imprint of Hachette Book Group.

SPARE PARTS written by Joshua Davis and adapted by Reyna Grande tells the true story of four undocumented teenagers, one ugly robot and an impossible dream. This young reader edition of the bestselling adult book and movie shares the inspiring story of two high school science teachers who inspired four teens to build an underwater robot. ARC courtesy of Farrar, Straus and Giroux, an imprint of Macmillan. 

Timely Take-aways: Strong Women through History

From medieval times to the present, several new books explore strong women through history and why they are often misrepresented, overlooked, or unheard.

Brave Hearted: The Women of the American West 
Katie Hickman, 2022, Spiegel & Grau             
Themes: US History, American West, Women

Through a wide range of primary source documents, explore the little-known world of diverse women who survived harsh landscapes and circumstances.

Take-aways: Update the curriculum to include first-hand accounts of diverse women of Native American, African, and Chinese descent.

The Dark Queens: The Bloody Rivalry that Forged the Medieval World
Shelley Puhak, 2022, Bloomsbury, Macmillan       
Themes: World History, Medieval, Women

During 6th century, two powerful women of the Merovingian Empire ruled for decades while balancing statecraft and family life.

Take-aways: Use these queens to show how history often misrepresents women’s contributions.

Poor Richard’s Women: Deborah Read Franklin and the Other Women Behind the Founding Father
Nancy Rubin Stuart, 2022, Beacon Press, Penguin Random House       
Themes: US History

Readers are introduced to the many women who impacted the life of Benjamin Franklin.

Take-aways: Update the Colonial Period curriculum to include the women who surrounded the men who are often the focus on US history courses. Discuss the use of personal correspondence in historical research.

Women Healers: Gender, Authority, and Medicine in Early Philadelphia 
Susan H. Brandt, 2022, University of Pennsylvania Press         
Themes: US History, Women

Explore the role of women in medical science through the works of Elizabeth Coates Paschall and the accomplishments of other practitioners of European, African and Native American descent.

Take-aways: Share the authoritative medical work of diverse women during the mid-19th century.

Off with Her Head: Three Thousand Years of Demonizing Women of Power
Eleanor Herman, 2022, William Morrow: HarperCollins                   
Themes: History, Women

From the ancient world to the politics of today, trace the history of misogyny against women.

Take-aways: Use the book’s humorous examples to discuss with students the different ways women of power have been portrayed through history.

Warrior Queens & Quiet Revolutionaries
Kate Mosse, 2023, Mantle: Macmillan                                             
Themes: History, Women

Through a diverse cast of women from around the world along with personal connections, Mosse addresses why the achievements of women are often overlooked or under-represented.

Take-aways: Explore Mosse’s book for unique women that will bring history alive for students.

Young Queens: Three Renaissance Women and the Price of Power

Leah Redmond, 2023, Farrar, Straus & Giroux                   
Themes: History, Europe, Women

In the sixteenth-century, Catherine de’ Medici, Elisabeth de Valois, and Mary, Queen of Scots transformed Europe.

Take-aways: Use the intertwining lives of these three women to demonstrate the different ways women were able to survive and thrive in male dominated societies.

Whether helping educators keep up-to-date in their subject-areas, promoting student reading in the content-areas, or simply encouraging nonfiction leisure reading, teacher librarians need to be aware of the best new titles across the curriculum and how to activate life-long learning. - Annette Lamb

Synergy: Exploring Earth Science

EARTH SCIENCE is the branch of science that studies the physical makeup of the Earth and its atmosphere. It includes the areas of geology, astronomy, oceanography, and meteorology. 

To understand a concept, it’s useful to read a cluster of books related to a theme. Explore these recently published books for young people:

FIRE SHAPES THE WORLD written by Joanna Cooke and illustrated by Cornelia Li explores the connection between fire and life on earth. While exploring key concepts related to fire ecology, readers learn about how fire shaped earth and its inhabitants and continues to have an impact on the environment. With so many people impacted each year by wildfires, this beautifully illustrated picture book is timely. An author’s note provides additional depth and detail. ARC courtesy of Yosemite Conservancy, Ingram Publisher Services.

WATER: HOW WE CAN PROTECT OUR FRESHWATER written by Catherine Barr and illustrated by Christiane Engel examines the history of water on earth, the importance of freshwater, and the need to advocate for water security. Each two-page spreads explores a key concept presenting facts and examples along with useful illustrations. The picture book concludes with ideas for using water wisely. ARC courtesy of Candlewick, an imprint of Penguin Random House.

KABOOM! A VOLCANO ERUPTS written by Jessica Kulekjian and illustrated by Zoe Si takes young readers through the experience of a volcanic eruption. Told from the volcano’s viewpoint, young volcanologists learn key concepts, facts, and terminology. The comic approach will appeal to young readers. The picture book concludes with useful back matter including a volcano anatomy diagram and volcano types. ARC courtesy of Kids Can Press, an imprint of Hachette.

EXPLORE UNDER THE EARTH written by Carly Madden and illustrated by Neil Clark takes readers on an adventure inside the Earth. This innovative, layered board book introduces young children to earthquakes, volcanoes, and other aspects of earth science. Check out other books in the Adventures of Evie and Juno series for more science fun. ARC courtesy of Happy Yak, Quarto Group.

Synergy: Exploring Hands-on Science

HANDS-ON SCIENCE is an approach to learning that actively involves children in inquiry-based learning and problem-solving. Using real-world contexts, children apply critical and creative thinking to investigate questions, conduct experiments, and draw conclusions.

To understand a concept, it’s useful to read a cluster of books related to a theme. Explore these recently published books for young people:

HANDS-ON SCIENCE is a new nonfiction series for young readers focusing on a wide range of popular science themes. Written by Lola M. Schaefer and illustrated by Druscilla Santiago, each book uses simple illustrations, engaging text, and creative interactive elements to explain key scientific concepts. Along the way, children are encouraged to have fun conducting their own experiments. Whether tilting the book, blowing on the page, or pressing an image, readers are actively involved in learning. Each title immerses children in a different STEM science laboratory where they use the book along with step-by-step instructions to conduct experiments.

GEOLOGY examines concepts connected with rocks, minerals, and Earth science. From earthquakes to volcanoes, children will enjoy connecting science to exciting, real-world situations.

MATTER introduces young scientists to solids, liquids, and gases. From molding clay and making cherry juice to experimenting with bubbles, readers immerse themselves in an engaging chemistry laboratory.

MOTION explores topics such as gravity and wind to explain force and motion. Young scientists will enjoy actively learning in the physic laboratory.

ARC courtesy of Charlesbridge, an imprint of Penguin Random House.

Synergy: Celebrating trivia

Synergy: Celebrating trivia

TRIVIA are facts that are not well-known. These pieces of information may be of little importance, yet they sometimes promote curiosity and wonder. Trivia is often viewed as amusing, entertaining and interesting.

To understand a concept, it’s useful to read a cluster of books related to a theme. Explore these recently published books for young people:

STUFF KIDS SHOULD KNOW: THE MIND-BLOWING HISTORIES OF (ALMOST) EVERYTHING by Josh Clark and Chuck Bryant with Nils Parker is a middle grade work of nonfiction based on the popular podcast Stuff You Should Know. This illustrated guide addresses a wide range of questions with humor and a sense of curiosity. Each of the fourteen chapters explores a different topic from toys and trillionaires to facial hair. The interesting tables and timelines add to the appeal. ARC courtesy of Henry Holt and Co., an imprint of Macmillan.

HOW DOES CHOCOLATE TASTE ON EVEREST? written by Leisa Stewart-Sharpe and illustrated by Aaron Cushey explores the world’s extreme places through the five senses. Readers are encouraged to think about their sense of sight, sound, smell, touch, and taste as they travel to hot, dark, high, and magical places. Along the way, readers learn fascinating facts about each location. The book concludes with a useful glossary. ARC courtesy of Charlesbridge, an imprint of Penguin Random House.

WELCOME TO THE MYSTERYVERSE written by Clive Gifford and illustrated by Good Wives and Warriors examines the world’s unsolved wonders. Exploring science’s unanswered questions, this work of nonfiction features chapters on the topics of people, Earth, nature, space, and other mysteries. Key questions, colorful illustrations and fact boxes encourage readers to solve problems and wonder about the world around them. ARC courtesy of Wide Eyed Editions, an imprint of Quarto Group.

Synergy: Celebrating Wild Animals

WILD ANIMALS are creatures that have not been domesticated. They live on their own in nature without direct human intervention. These animals find food, shelter, and water in their natural habitat. 

To understand a concept, it’s useful to read a cluster of books related to a theme. Explore these recently published books for young people:

The EVERYWHERE animal series features a ride range of creatures within a particular category including reptiles, bugs, mammals, and birds. 

For instance, BIRDS EVERYWHERE written by Camilla de la Bedoyere and illustrated by Britta Teckentrup is the fourth book in this popular picture book series. This title uses colorful illustrations and blocks of text to highlight key topics connected with birds such as water birds and feeding birds. ARC courtesy of Big Picture Press, an imprint of Penguin Random House.

The ORCA WILD series for middle grade readers combines color photographs with engaging text to tell the story of a wild animal such as killer whales, birds, grizzly bears and sharks.

 

For instance, WILD HORSES: RUNNING FREE explores the lives of horses in the wild. The book provides an overview of these animals along with specific examples including how young people protect wild horses. Readers learn the history, biology and ecology on wild horses. ARC courtesy of Orca Book Publishers.

The QUIRKY CREATURES series features the strange and sometimes creepy animals found in the natural world. Current titles explore the categories atrocious, ridiculous, and pointless animals.

For instance, THE WORLD’S MOST ATROCIOUS ANIMALS by Philip Bunting uses simple illustrations of bizarre creatures to engage young readers. From scary to shocking, the creatures are humorously presented through basic text, labelled diagrams, and fun facts. ARC courtesy of Happy Yak, an imprint of Quarto Group.

Timely Takeaways: Space Science

From meteorites to aliens, explore a wide range of recently published books focusing on space science, astronomy, and cosmology. These thought-provoking books separate the fact from the fiction.

Impact: How Rocks from Space Led to Life, Culture, and Donkey Dong
Greg Brennecka, 2022, William Morrow, Harper Collins
Themes: Science, Space Science, Cosmology

Brennecka’s humorous approach brings the story of meteorites to life through fascinating examples.

Take-aways: Use the author’s stories to enhance the teaching of space science and specifically meteorites.

NASA Missions to Mars: A Visual History of Our Quest to Explore the Red Planet
Piers Bizony, 2022, Motorbooks, Quarto Group   
Themes: Science, Space Science, Space Exploration

This visually-rich reference explores the past, present, and future of Mars exploration.

Take-aways: Use this amazing visual story to enhance the planetary science curriculum. Involve students in speculation about the future exploration of other planets in our solar system.

The Red Planet: A Natural History of Mars
Simon Morden, 2022, Pegasus Books, Simon & Schuster                 
Themes: Science, Space Science

Told in seven parts, readers explore the planetary science, geology, and the history of Mars.

Take-aways: The author’s accessible, conversational writing style make this book a good choice for high school educators seeking a content-area reading experience for teens.

The Cosmos Explained
Charles Liu, 2023, Ivy Press, Quarto Group                   
Themes: Science, Space Science, Astronomy

With an emphasis on our place in space and time, this visually-rich book traces the history of our universe and the evolution of our social system. 

Take-aways: Teachers will find the short biographical sketches of key contributors to be useful.

Before the Big Bang: The Origin of Our Universe from the Multiverse
Laura Mersini-Houghton, 2023, Mariner Books, HarperCollins     
Themes: Space Science, Cosmology

Follow the author’s personal and professional journey re-writing the origin story of our universe.

Take-aways: Students are fascinated by the prospect of a multiverse. Update the curriculum to include the latest information on the universe’s origin.

Under Alien Skies: A Sightseer’s Guide to the Universe
Philip Plait, 2023, W.W. Norton & Company                   
Themes: Science, Space Science, Astronomy

Plait takes readers on an entertaining adventure through the universe. From the moon and Mars to black holes, each chapter explores a different space science topic.

Take-aways: Weave Plait’s humorous, easy to understand examples into the space science curriculum.

Interstellar: The Search for Extraterrestrial Life and Our Future in the Stars
Avi Loeb, 2023, Mariner Books, HarperCollins     
Themes: Science Space Science, Space Exploration

Loeb examines that challenges of encountering alien life and our quest to explore the universe.

Take-aways: Use this book to address student speculation about aliens and interstellar exploration.

The Little Book of Aliens
Adam Frank, 2023, Harper, HarperCollins                                       
Themes: Science, Space Science

Through eight engaging chapters, readers learn the fact and fiction of alien life. Trace the history of the big ideas, scientific exploration and research, and near-future issues.

Take-aways: Students often have questions about the possibility of alien life. Use examples from this easy-to-understand book to lead thought-provoking discussions about this hot topic.

...

Whether helping educators keep up-to-date in their subject-areas, promoting student reading in the content-areas, or simply encouraging nonfiction leisure reading, teacher librarians need to be aware of the best new titles across the curriculum and how to activate life-long learning. - Annette Lamb

Synergy: Celebrating National Park

NATIONAL PARKS are lands set aside and protected by a national government for conservation and preservation. These lands contain distinctive natural and cultural resources such as a landforms, plants, and animals of particular value.

To understand a concept, it’s useful to read a cluster of books related to a theme. Explore these recently published books for young people:

NATIONAL MONUMENTS OF THE USA written by Cameron Walker and illustrated by Chris Turnham explores a wide range of iconic locations around the United States. Organized into eight chapters, a two-page spread identifies the monuments. Then, text blocks, infographics, and other visuals highlight key features of each location. ARC courtesy of Wide Eyed Editions, an imprint of 69 Titles.

ZION NATIONAL PARK by Greg Paprocki is a new book in the YOU ARE HERE! series. This picture book focuses on Zion’s unique geological landscape while sharing key facts about the park. In addition, it provides engaging park activities. ARC courtesy of Little Hero, an imprint of Ingram Publisher Services.

COLORS OF THE NATIONAL PARKS illustrated by Jenny Miriam is a board book featuring a color prominently found in ten national parks such as the brown elks of Yellowstone National Park and green cactus of Zion National Park. ARC courtesy of duopress, an imprint of Sourcebooks.

EYEWITNESS NATIONAL PARKS from DK is a highly illustrated guide to 63 US National Parks. This updated book in the Eyewitness series features stunning photographs and the unique features of each of these amazing places. ARC courtesy of DK, an importing of Penguin Random House.

I AM MADE OF MOUNTAINS written by Alexandra S.D. Hinrichs and illustrated by Vivian Mineker highlights the nature wonders of sixteen National Parks of the United States. Each two-page spread provides a stunning illustration reflecting a majestic location along with lyrical text and information about the particular park.

ARC courtesy of Charlesbridge.

THE STORY OF CONSERVATION written by Catherine Barr and Steve Williams and illustrated by Amy Husband shares the science and history of conservation. Part of the STORY OF… series, readers learn about how the Earth’s natural resources can be cared and protected for future generations. ARC courtesy of Frances Lincoln Children’s Book, an imprint of Quarto Group.

Synergy: Exploring Animal Behavior

ANIMAL BEHAVIOR is the study of how animals interact in their environment from movement and social activity to mating behavior.

To understand a concept, it’s useful to read a cluster of books related to a theme. Explore these recently published books for young people:

LEARNING TO BE WILD: HOW ANIMALS ACHIEVE PEACE, CREATE BEAUTY, AND RAISE FAMILIES by Carl Safina is a young adult adaptation of the adult work of nonfiction. Community, culture, and belonging aren’t just human concepts, they extend to the animal world. This engaging read explores the connections among chimpanzees, macaws, whales, and humans. ARC courtesy Roaring Brook Press, an imprint of Macmillan. 

BUTT OR FACE? written by Kari Lavelle presents a photograph and asks readers to guess the animal. Additional information about the creature’s physical characteristics and behaviors is presented in an engaging way. This unusual book will be popular with young readers who enjoy humor and animals. ARC courtesy of Sourcebooks Explore, an imprint of Sourcebooks.

FOLLOW THE FLYWAY: THE MARVEL OF BIRD MIGRATION written by Sarah Nelson and illustrated by Maya Hanisch explores a dozen bird species that migrate along the North American Flyways. The rhyming text make this beautifully illustrated picture book an engaging read-aloud. The book concludes with fascinating flyway facts. ARC courtesy of Barefoot Books. 

FIND OUT ABOUT ANIMAL CAMOUFLAGE written by Martin Jenkins and illustrated by Jane McGuinness is a picture book exploring how animals disguise themselves. Designed for young children, learners explore clever ways creatures use camouflage to survive. Each two-page spread includes a key statement along with supplemental text. ARC courtesy of Candlewick Press. 

THINK LIKE A GOAT: THE WILDLY SMART WAYS ANIMALS COMMUNICATE, COOPERATE, AND INNOVATE written by Lisa Dearest Betik and illustrated by Alexander Mostov examines animal behavior around the world. The book begins by sharing different types of intelligence, then five chapters examine how animals apply their intelligence. The combination of interesting text blocks, infographics, and other engaging information presentation styles will appeal to young readers. ARC courtesy Kids Can Press, an imprint of Hachette Book Group.

Synergy: Celebrating Insects

INSECTS are small invertebrates. These arthropods usually have six legs and one or two pairs of wings. They also have a well-defined head, thorax, and abdomen. Although they are sometimes considered pests, they serve essential roles in nature.

To understand a concept, it’s useful to read a cluster of books related to a theme. Explore these recently published books for young people:

WHAT’S INSIDE A CATERPILLAR COCOON? written by Rachel Ignotofsky answers commonly asked questions about moths and butterflies. This beautifully illustrated picture book brings the insect world alive for young readers. ARC courtesy of Crown Books for Young Readers, an imprint of Penguin Random House.

PLEASE DON’T BITE ME!: INSECTS THAT BUZZ, BITE, AND STING written by Jazzy Pakpour and illustrated by Owen Davey examines pesky insects including lice, mosquitoes, wasps, cockroaches, bedbugs, and fleas and the reasons they’re often misunderstood. Children will enjoy the simple, attractive illustrations and interesting scientific facts. ARC courtesy of Flying Eye Books, an imprint of Penguin Random House.

CATERPILLARS: WHAT WILL I BE WHEN I GET TO BE ME? written by Kevin McCloskey is part of the Giggle and Learn series. Combining scientific information with a fun approach, learners explore the life cycle of moths and butterflies along with their important role as pollinators. Of particular note is the picture book’s use of speech bubbles and other sequential art techniques in storytelling. ARC courtesy of TOON Books, an imprint of Astra Publishing House.

IT IS TIME: THE LIFE OF A CATERPILLAR by Lizzy Rockwell is a science book for beginning readers. Exploring the life cycle of a butterfly, the book uses short sentences and key terms to introduce the science concepts through an engaging story. ARC courtesy of Holiday House.

EYEWITNESS INSECT from DK is a highly-illustrated reference book exploring a wide range of insects. This newly updated DK Eyewitness Book provides information about anatomy, behavior, habitats, and compares related creatures. ARC courtesy of DK.

Synergy: Exploring Botany

BOTANY is the study of plant science. This branch of biology includes not only plants, but also fungi and algae.

To understand a concept, it’s useful to read a cluster of books related to a theme. Explore these recently published books for young people:

KNOWLEDGE ENCYCLOPEDIA: PLANTS AND FUNGI from DK is a highly illustrated reference book for children interested in plant science. From flowers and trees to carnivorous plants, readers will be spellbound by the wealth of fascinating facts, useful infographics, diagrams, and photographs. ARC courtesy of DK.

LANGUAGE OF PLANTS written by Helena Harastova and illustrated Darya Beklemesheva explores the science of plants. Each chapter examines a different aspect of plant communication. Whether exploring the Wood Wide Web or clever pollination, readers will enjoy the variety of presentation formats including text, detailed diagrams, and more. ARC courtesy of Albatros Media, an imprint of Ingram Publisher Services.

STAND AS TALL AS TREES written by Patricia Gualinga and Laura Resau and illustrated by Vanessa Jaramillo shares how activists and community members in the Amazon worked together to protect their native lands. This inspirational, true story shares the importance of environmental conservation and plant preservation. This title is available in both English and Spanish. ARC courtesy of Charlesbridge Publishing.

ROOTING FOR PLANTS: THE UNSTOPPABLE CHARLES S. PARKER, BLACK BOTANIST AND COLLECTOR written by Janice N. Harrington and illustrated by Theodore Taylor III tells the story of a botanist and mycologist who discovered new species of plants and fungi and the source of fruit tree diseases. As a botanist and educator, he inspired a generation of new Black scientists. ARC courtesy of Calkins Creek, an imprint of Astra Publishing House.

HOW NOT TO KILL YOUR PLANT written by Magda Gargulakova and Lena Chytilova and illustrated by Hannah Abba assists young readers in learning the process of acquiring and caring for houseplants. Of particular note is the section exploring individual plants children are likely to encounter. Chapters feature the basics of care, an encyclopedia of houseplants, and cultivation practice. Visuals, step-by-step instructions, and lots of useful advice make this a practical guide for young plant lovers. ARC courtesy of Albatros Media.

Timely Take-aways for Life Long Learners: Literature and Language

Whether exploring favorite authors, lesser-known works, or book history topics, several new titles provide breadth and depth to the study of literature, literary collections, speeches, and history. 

Index, A History of the
Dennis Duncan, 2022, W.W. Norton & Company Themes: Book History, Social History, Books

Book history fans will be enthralled by this fascinating history of the index. Duncan traces the little-known highlights of its design, use, and changes over time.

Take-aways: Students will related to how the index has evolved from print media into digital searches.

Everyday Emerson: A Year of Wisdom
Ralph Waldo Emerson, 2022, St. Martin’s Essentials, Macmillan Themes: Literary Collections

These daily quotes are intended to connect with everyday life and share the universal appeal of his writings.

Take-aways: English teachers will find these quotes to be excellent discussion starters. Ask students to consider whether they agree with the quote and how it applies to life in today’s world.

Walt Whitman’s New Orleans: Sidewalk Sketches and Newspaper Rambles
Stefan Scholberlein (Editor), 2022, LSU Press Themes: Literary Collections

After an introduction and excerpts from A Traveller’s Note Book, readers explore 50 short prose “sketches” and insightful information and resources about Whitman and his works.

Take-aways: Use this fascinating book to help students better understand Whitman and his use of sketches to share his insights into daily life. Ask students to create their own sketches based on their observations.

Undelivered: The Never-Heard Speeches that Would have Rewritten History
Jeff Nussbaum, 2023, Flatiron Books, an imprint of Macmillan Themes: Literary Collections, Speeches

Sharing notable speeches that were never delivered, Nussbaum explores the historical contexts along with the content of dozens of speeches by well-known individuals. From change and crisis to apology and loss, each of the five parts examples a different theme that impacted the speech’s outcome.

Take-aways: Students are familiar with the famous speeches, but will find these less-known, never-heard speeches to be engaging and thought-provoking.

All the Knowledge in the World: The Extraordinary History of the Encyclopedia
Simon Garfield, 2023, William Morrow, HarperCollins Themes: Book History, Language Arts

Garfield’s conversational style turns what could be a dry history of the encyclopedia into an engaging exploration of this fascinating reference source. Through short, interesting chapters, readers learn about the authors and publishers along with the content and formats of the beloved encyclopedia.

Take-aways: Share examples from Garfield’s book, then ask students to adopt their favorite reference book category. From field guides to atlases, involve students in writing their own reference history.

Storyland: A New Mythology of Britain
Amy Jeffs, 2023, Andrew McMeel Publishing Themes: History, Social Science, Literature, Mythology

While tracing the history and interconnected mythology, Jeffs retells both well-known and lesser known tales. Along the way, readers explore key landscapes and legends. The linocuts are of particular note.

Take-aways: Written for a modern audience, young adults will enjoy the retellings. Involve teams of students in examining the early, prehistory, antiquity, or the Middle Ages and mythological themes.

The Wonderful World of James Herriot: A Charming Collection of Classic Stories
James Herriot, 2023, St. Martin’s Press, an imprint of Macmillan Themes: Essays & Narratives

This illustrated version of Herriot’s popular narratives bring these classic stories alive for a new audience.

Take-aways: Inspire teen writers to use observation and humor in their own nonfiction narratives.

The Hobbit Encyclopedia
Damien Bondi & Vivien Stocker, 2023, Frances Lincoln, Quarto Group Themes: Literary Criticism

This illustrated guide to Tolkien’s universe features hundreds of entries related to characters, places, and plot elements.

Take-aways: Suggest this reference companion for fans of The Hobbit. Ask students to create their own “encyclopedia”.

Whether helping educators keep up-to-date in their subject-areas, promoting student reading in the content-areas, or simply encouraging nonfiction leisure reading, teacher librarians need to be aware of the best new titles across the curriculum and how to activate life-long learning. - Annette Lamb

Synergy: Celebrating Mathematics

MATHEMATICS is the science of numbers and their use. From counting, arranging, and measuring objects to describing shapes, math is connected with everything we do. Branches of mathematics include arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and calculus.

To understand a concept, it’s useful to read a cluster of books related to a theme. Explore these recently published books for young people:

STORYTELLING MATH is a book series from Charlesbridge featuring children of color applying math to the world around them. Readers are encouraged to become mathematical thinkers. Let’s explore several new books in the series.

WHO JUMPS MORE?, OUR FAVORITE APPLES, WHERE ARE THE EGGS?, and A BEAUTIFUL HOUSE FOR BIRDS written and illustrated by Grace Lin are four recently published books in the Storytelling Math series. Whether searching for eggs or building a bird house, each story celebrates math in the daily lives of children.

LIA & LUIS books are written by Ana Crespo and Giovana Medeiros. In PUZZLED!, the twins who use geometry and sorting skills to decipher a puzzle sent by their grandmother. In WHO HAS MORE?, an argument about favorite snacks has the twins applying measurement, counting, and estimation skills. Like some other books in the STORYTELLING MATH series, this title is available in Spanish, English, and bilingual editions.

TOO-SMALL TYSON written by JaNay Brown and illustrated by Anastasia Magloire Williams tells the story of a missing pet gerbil. Along the way, children learn about proportional thinking.

To learn more about the series, visit the website for author interviews and lots of extras. Go to https://www.charlesbridge.com/pages/storytellingmath.

ARCs courtesy of Charlesbridge, an imprint of Penguin Random House.