James C. Schaap Paul Stoub

A Storytime Book

Bonnie Worth

Crockett Johnson

Monica Kulling Join Tom Sawyer's wild adventures along the banks of the Mississippi River in this exciting addition to the Step into Classics line. Tom and his best friend, Huck Finn, share exciting make-believe escapades as treasure hunters, swashbuckling pirates, and soldiers in battle. They also unwittingly become real-life witnesses to a terrible crime!

Judith Viorst Judith Viorst. Poor Alexander! He woke up with gum in his hair; his mom forgot to put dessert in his lunch bag; there were lima beans for dinner, and kissing on TV even the cat refuses to sleep in his bed. Some days are just like that. Alexander's awful day is the perfect lead-off for this collection of funny, touching stories about the ups and downs of childhood from imaginary monsters to saying goodbye to a family pet. Judith Viorst's insightful and humorous stories are the perfect antidote to any child's "terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day."

Hans Christian Andersen Hans Christian Andersen’s Fairy Tales are like exquisite jewels, drawing from us gasps of recognition and delight. Andersen created intriguing and unique characters — a tin soldier with only one leg but a big heart, a beetle nestled deep in a horse’s mane but harboring high aspirations. Each one of us at some time, has been touched by one of Andersen’s Fairy Tales. Here you’ll find his classic tales such as: The Mermaid, Thumbelina, The Steadfast Tin Soldier, and The Ugly Duckling, 38 of your favorite tales in all. This deluxe Children’s Classic edition is produced with high-quality, leatherlike binding with gold stamping, full-color covers, colored endpapers with a book nameplate. Some of the other titles in this series include: Anne of Green Gables, Black Beauty, Heidi, King Arthur and His Knights and The Secret Garden.

Golden Books

P.D. Eastman A newborn bird's identity crisis takes him on a quest to find his real mother.

DK Publishing Babies love playing peekaboo, and once they discover these adorable touch-and-feel flap books, they'll love reading books just as much.

Sandra Boynton A die-cut cover opens to reveal chunky pages full of delightful farm animals at a barnyard dance in a board book that teaches young readers all about opposites.

David Bedford, Caroline Pedler "Little Bear flumped down in the snow and wiggled his tail. 'I'm not sleepy,' he said, 'and I don't want to go to bed yet.'

"Mother Bear smiled. 'Shall we take one last walk,' she said, 'and see who else is going to bed?'"

Little Bear and Mother Bear take one last walk to see the other animals getting ready for bed. Will this make Little Bear sleepy enough to snuggle down for the night?

With cuddly illustrations painted in cool tones, this wonderful bedtime book is the perfect story for any child who isn't quite ready to go to sleep.

Audrey Tarrant

Gerf

Big Dog . . . Little Dog has been reformatted into a Beginner Book to join P. D. Eastman’s other classics:
Go, Dog. Go! and Are You My Mother? This delightful book chronicles a day in the life of Ted and Fred–two dogs who are different in every way, but also the best of friends. An irreverent introduction to the concepts of size, color, and opposites.

Roger Priddy Ideal for babies and toddlers. Touch and feel elements. Fun Rhyming text.

Gina Erickson M.A., Kelli C. Foster Ph.D. This story teaches ug-words, as the bug club meets on the rug, near the jug.

Tony Mitton, Ant Parker Sail boats, row boats, ferry boats and speedboats: find them all and discover how they work in this fun-filled picture book. Then take a cruise on an ocean liner, crewed by our favorite animal characters, in a jolly rhyming journey.

Dr. Seuss Description coming soon...

Charles M. Schulz Charlie Brown and his sad, sincere little tree are American icons. Who didn't dream of nurturing their very own "Charlie Brown Christmas Tree" with love to remind themselves of the true meaning of Christmas? In A Charlie Brown Christmas: A Book-and-Tree Kit, now you can cultivate the true spirit of Christmas past, present, and always. This irresistible kit includes a small, pathetic Charlie Brown Christmas tree, one red decorating bulb, Linus's blanket to wrap around the tree's roots, and a full-color mini edition of A Charlie Brown Christmas. For the millions of Peanuts fans and collectors, this heart-stirring Christmas package is bound to be the best-loved of all the stocking-stuffers.

E. B. White Some Pig

These are the words in Charlotte's web, high in the barn. Her spiderweb tells of her feelings for a little pig named Wilbur, as well as the feelings of a little girl named Fern ... who loves Wilbur, too. Their love has been shared by millions of readers.

C. S. Lewis Journeys to the end of the world, fantastic creatures, and epic battles between good and evil — what more could any reader ask for in one book? The book that has it all is The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, written in 1949 by Clive Staples Lewis. But Lewis did not stop there. Six more books followed, and together they became known as The Chronicles of Narnia.

For the past fifty years, The Chronicles of Narnia have transcended the fantasy genre to become part of the canon of classic literature. Each of the seven books is a masterpiece, drawing the reader into a land where magic meets reality, and the result is a fictional world whose scope has fascinated generations.

This edition presents all seven books — unabridged — in one impressive volume. The books are presented here according to Lewis' preferred order, each chapter graced with an illustration by the original artist, Pauline Baynes. Deceptively simple and direct, The Chronicles of Narnia continue to captivate fans with adventures, characters, and truths that speak to readers of all ages, even fifty years after they were first published.

Random House

How many kisses does a tired baby need?

Count and kiss

along with this bedtime book, now in a sturdy format perfect for the youngest readers.

"When I was quite young and quite small for my size, I met an old man in the Desert of Drize." The old man looks like a cross between a cartoon granddad and a swami; he sits on top of a cactus, and tells his young listener that the best way to get over any sadness is to imagine all the ways you could be worse off. "Suppose, just suppose, you were poor Herbie Hart, who has taken his Throm-dim-bu-lator apart!" This has a more hurried, formulaic feel than the best Seuss, and it seems to showcase a less acute grasp of child psychology than usual. (Does it really make a child feel better to think of poor Harry Haddow, who, "try as he will, can't make a shadow," or Gucky Gown, "who lives by himself ninety miles out of town"?) But the illustrations alone make this morality tale a minor classic. (Ages 4 to 8) —Richard Farr

Matthew Van Fleet From the creator of the #1 New York Times bestsellerTails and the million-copy-selling Fuzzy Yellow Ducklings

Doggone fun for toddlers!

In Matthew Van Fleet's captivating new multiconcept book, twenty breeds of capering canines demonstrate action words, opposites, synonyms, and more. Cleverly designed pull tabs and flaps plus ten pettable textures provide interactive treats that will have toddlers arfing along from start to surprising finish. Bow-WOW!

Dr. Seuss From the Dr. Seuss Collection. Dr. Seuss's ABC Book. This hardcover book is illustrated in full color. An alphabet book with zany drawings and nonsensical verse provides an entertaining way for small children to learn the letters and their sounds.

Format: Hardcover, 63pp.
ISBN: 0394800303
Publisher: Random House, Incorporated
Publication Date: May 1976
Recommended Age Range: 4 to 6

Dr. Seuss Illus. in color. "Deliberately calculated to make its readers yawn. No one could resist those zillions of astonishing sleepyheads."—The New York Times.

Jez Alborough Uh-oh! Duck is stuck!

Duck is driving home in his truck, when both he and the truck get stuck insome muck — yuck! But along comes a Frog from a bush who offers to push,then a Sheep in a jeep, and a Goat in a boat. Are the three friends strongenough to get the truck unstuck, or is Duck just plain out of luck?

Join Duck and his friends in this quacking good read-aloud for some good, messy fun.

Tyne O'Connell

Disney Book Club

Sarah Albee Joe Matthieu

Sara Berger Elmo can quack like a duck, slither like a snake, hop like a frog, and do other things that animal friends do. And Elmo encourages little kids to be active and play right along with him. This small but chunky board book, just the right size for little hands, has a finger puppet of Elmo's head built right into it (his body is illustrated in various animal poses) for maximum play value and a mega-dose of fun.

Eric Carle Generations of readers have grown up with Eric Carle's deceptively simple picture books, which combine entertaining stories, glorious cut-paper collages, and gentle lessons about a child's world. Here are seven of his stories collected in one handsome volume: "The Tiny Seed," "Pancakes, Pancakes!," "The Mountain That Loved A Bird," "Walter The Baker," "A House for Hermit Crab," "The Greedy Python," and "Rooster's Off to See the World." Dazzling collages of hand-painted tissue paper will entice young readers to become acquainted with numbers, the seasons, and the days of the week as they read. A tiny seed travels through fall, winter, spring, and summer looking for a place to grow into a flower. Jack gathers ingredients for pancakes and learns how to cook, flip, and finish them. A little bird brings a renewal of life and happiness to a lonely, barren mountain. Walter the baker must invent a tasty roll through which the rising sun can shine three times. Hermit Crab learns that in order to grow, one must be willing to move on. A python is so excessively greedy that is finally eats itself. And Rooster sets off to see the wide world in a day-long adventure. These seven stories, each representing the best of picture-book master Eric Carle, will excite the imaginations of children and encourage their curiousity about the world around them.

Norah Dooley

Theodore Le Sieg Our eyes see flies. Our eyes see ants. Sometimes they see pink underpants.
Oh, say can you see? Dr. Seuss’s hilarious ode to eyes gives little ones a whole new appreciation for all the wonderful things to be seen!

Margaret Brown Klapthor Published to accompany the book Presidents of the United States of America is, of course, a book on the First Ladies. It provides considered insight into the lifes of the First Ladies, drawing on portraits from the White House Historical Association's collection. Not all first ladies have been wives of presidents. Sisters,

READER'S DIGEST

Julie Haydon

Dr. Seuss Dr. Seuss characters explore the zany world of feet. Full-color illustrations. From the Bright and Early Series.

Format: Hardcover, 28pp. ISBN: 0394809378 Publisher: Random House, Incorporated Pub. Date: May 1976 Recommend Age Range: 4 to 8

Michael Heatley Inside you'll find:

— Practical advice on everything from changing diapers to watching the kids to trying to get out of it altogether!

— Words of wisdom and tricks of the trade from actual fathers!

— How-to instructions for becoming the coolest dad on the block, including: Making bows and arrows! Leading camping expeditions! Building a super kite!

— Funny jokes and anecdotes about the trials and tribulations of fatherhood!

And much, much more...

Alison Maloney Inside you'll find:

—Practical advice on how to get the children to bed, up in the morning, or out of your hair for a few hours!

—Words of wisdom and tricks of the trade from actual mothers!

—How-to instructions for becoming the most popular mom on the block, including: Throwing the coolest birthday party! Baking the best treats! Hosting the grossest Halloween ever!

—Crack up the next PTA meeting with hilarious anecdotes and rib-rattling jokes!

And much, much more...

Dr. Seuss Theodore Geisel A collection of tongue twisters that is "an amusing exercise for beginning readers.". Back in 1957, Theodor Geisel responded to an article in Life magazine that lamented the use of boring reading primers in schools. Using the pseudonym of "Dr. Seuss" (Seuss was Geisel's middle name) and only two hundred twenty-three words, Geisel created a replacement for those dull primers: "The Cat in the Hat." The instant success of the book prompted Geisel and his wife to found Beginner Books, and Geisel wrote many popular books in this series, including "Hop on Pop," "Fox in Socks," and "Green Eggs and Ham." Other favorite titles in this series are "Go, Dog, Go!" and "Are You My Mother?" by P. D. Eastman, "A Fly Went By," by Mike McClintock, and "Put Me in the Zoo," by Robert Lopshire. These affordable hardcover books combine large print, easy vocabulary, and large, bright illustrations in stories kids will want to read again and again. Grades 1 - Grades 2.

Format: Hardcover, 72pp. ISBN: 0394800389 Publisher: Random House, Incorporated Pub. Date: May 1976 Recommend Age Range: 4 to 7

Michaela Muntean

"Clear bright illustrations show all the cars of a train bringing the reader the excitement of movement through day and night, country and city."—Booklist.

Arnold Lobel

Jim Post When he's not soaking in Mom's sink suds, you might find this precocious little hopper slipping and sliding in Brother's shorts. No matter where he ends up, kids and parents will have a ball as they discover all of the wrong places for a frog to be found.

Singer/songwriter Jim Post (Rock-'n-Roll Hall of Famer) has written a story to be sung!

Dan Vasconcellos' outrageously fun illustrations will delight readers with surprises on every page.

Bertram T. Knight Describes in photographs and brief text the steps involved in making ice cream

Peggy Kaye Everyone knows how important it is to read with children. But how can you continue your child's learning experience and enjoyment of a story once you close the book?

In her engaging new book, Peggy Kaye shows parents and teachers how to play learning games based on classic children's books. Games with Books features 14 picture books, from Harold and the Purple Crayon to Bluesberries for Sal and 14 chapter books, from Winnie the Pooh to Charlotte's Web. For each book, Kaye provides a summary and then offers three to four games that will keep kids entertained while they are practicing valuable reading, writing and math skills. The games require few materials and can easily be played both in home and at school. They cover a wide skill and age range. In addition to her creative and fun approach to learning, Kaye offers a wonderful bonus in her new book: a selective list of great children's books that no reader — young or old — will want to miss.

Louise Mathews Children's Choice book Club Edition from Scholastic Services. Color illustrations. A group of alligators attempt to split a pie so that everyone gets a piece.

To say that this particular apple tree is a "giving tree" is an understatement. In Shel Silverstein's popular tale of few words and simple line drawings, a tree starts out as a leafy playground, shade provider, and apple bearer for a rambunctious little boy. Making the boy happy makes the tree happy, but with time it becomes more challenging for the generous tree to meet his needs. When he asks for money, she suggests that he sell her apples. When he asks for a house, she offers her branches for lumber. When the boy is old, too old and sad to play in the tree, he asks the tree for a boat. She suggests that he cut her down to a stump so he can craft a boat out of her trunk. He unthinkingly does it. At this point in the story, the double-page spread shows a pathetic solitary stump, poignantly cut down to the heart the boy once carved into the tree as a child that said "M.E. + T." "And then the tree was happy... but not really." When there's nothing left of her, the boy returns again as an old man, needing a quiet place to sit and rest. The stump offers up her services, and he sits on it. "And the tree was happy." While the message of this book is unclear (Take and take and take? Give and give and give? Complete self-sacrifice is good? Complete self-sacrifice is infinitely sad?), Silverstein has perhaps deliberately left the book open to interpretation. (All ages) —Karin Snelson

Charles L. Blood Martin Link Geraldine is a goat, and Glenmae, a Navajo weaver. One day, Glenmae decides to weave Geraldine into a rug. First Geraldine is clipped. Then her wool is spun into fine, strong yarn. Finally, Glenmae weaves the wool on her loom. They reader learns, along with Geraldine, about the care and pride involved in the weaving of a Navajo rug — and about cooperation between friends.

Adam Gamble The beach, an iconic fixture of many children’s summers, is artfully celebrated in this boardbook. Designed to soothe children before bedtime while instilling an early appreciation for the environment’s natural wonders, the book features a multicultural group of people experiencing all that the beach has to offer. Rhythmic language guides children through the passage of a single day of fun at the seaside—splashing, playing in the waves, boating, fishing, identifying wildlife, and more.

Margaret Wise Brown In a great green room, tucked away in bed, is a little bunny. "Goodnight room, goodnight moon." And to all the familiar things in the softly lit room—to the picture of the three little bears sitting in chairs, to the clocks and his socks, to the mittens and the kittens, to everything one by one—he says goodnight.

In this classic of modern children's literature, beloved by generations of readers and listeners, the quiet poetry of the words and the gentle, lulling illustrations combine to make a perfect book for the end of the day.

Let's make a pizza with Grandpa! You can help. Lift the large, sturdy flaps to find everything you need.

James Duplacey Forwards are the hockey players to watch. They set up plays, score goals, and make it happen on the ice. But only a handful of forwards become stars-the amazing forwards. Meet today's heroes like Gretzky, Messier, and Lemieux, and such legends as Hull, Howe, and Esposito. Get the stories behind these ice warriors who thrill fans and astound players with their aggressive courage.

S. A. Kramer He was not the biggest, or the strongest, or the fastest. And yet, Wayne Gretzky is without question the greatest hockey player of all time. In light of number 99's retirement in '99, here is an easy-to-read look back at Gretzky's utterly amazing career—as he shattered long-standing records at an unbelievable rate, led the Edmonton Oilers to four Stanley Cup Championships, won a record nine MVP awards, and changed the game forever. Illustrated with lots of great Gretzky photos in addition to artwork, the book is also jam-packed with biographical information on the man himself. A great athlete, a great sportsman, and a great guy, Gretzky will always be known simply as "The Great One."

John Devaney

Dr. Seuss Description coming soon...

The Grouchy Ladybug Eric Carle. Progressing through a series of brilliantly colored die-cut pages, a bad-tempered braggart becomes a nicer, happier, better-behaved bug. The arrangement of the book also introduces concepts of comparative size and telling time. 48 pages. Trim sizeÊ10 1/4" x 10 1/4".

J.K. Rowling In one of the most hotly anticipated sequels in memory, J.K. Rowling takes up where she left with Harry's second year at the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Old friends and new torments abound, including a spirit named Moaning Myrtle who haunts the girl's bathroom, an outrageously conceited professor, Gilderoy Lockheart, and a mysterious force that turns Hogwarts students to stone.

J. K. Rowling Readers beware. The brilliant, breathtaking conclusion to J.K. Rowling's spellbinding series is not for the faint of heart—such revelations, battles, and betrayals await in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows that no fan will make it to the end unscathed. Luckily, Rowling has prepped loyal readers for the end of her series by doling out increasingly dark and dangerous tales of magic and mystery, shot through with lessons about honor and contempt, love and loss, and right and wrong. Fear not, you will find no spoilers in our review—to tell the plot would ruin the journey, and Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows is an odyssey the likes of which Rowling's fans have not yet seen, and are not likely to forget. But we would be remiss if we did not offer one small suggestion before you embark on your final adventure with Harry—bring plenty of tissues.

The heart of Book 7 is a hero's mission—not just in Harry's quest for the Horcruxes, but in his journey from boy to man—and Harry faces more danger than that found in all six books combined, from the direct threat of the Death Eaters and you-know-who, to the subtle perils of losing faith in himself. Attentive readers would do well to remember Dumbledore's warning about making the choice between "what is right and what is easy," and know that Rowling applies the same difficult principle to the conclusion of her series. While fans will find the answers to hotly speculated questions about Dumbledore, Snape, and you-know-who, it is a testament to Rowling's skill as a storyteller that even the most astute and careful reader will be taken by surprise.

A spectacular finish to a phenomenal series, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows is a bittersweet read for fans. The journey is hard, filled with events both tragic and triumphant, the battlefield littered with the bodies of the dearest and despised, but the final chapter is as brilliant and blinding as a phoenix's flame, and fans and skeptics alike will emerge from the confines of the story with full but heavy hearts, giddy and grateful for the experience. —Daphne Durham

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Begin at the Beginning
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone

Hardcover
Paperback Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets

Hardcover
Paperback Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban

Hardcover
Paperback Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire

Hardcover
Paperback Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

Hardcover
Paperback Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

Hardcover
Paperback
Why We Love Harry
Favorite Moments from the Series
There are plenty of reasons to love Rowling's wildly popular series—no doubt you have several dozen of your own. Our list features favorite moments, characters, and artifacts from the first five books. Keep in mind that this list is by no means exhaustive (what we love about Harry could fill ten books!) and does not include any of the spectacular revelatory moments that would spoil the books for those (few) who have not read them. Enjoy.

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone
* Harry's first trip to the zoo with the Dursleys, when a boa constrictor winks at him.
* When the Dursleys' house is suddenly besieged by letters for Harry from Hogwarts. Readers learn how much the Dursleys have been keeping from Harry. Rowling does a wonderful job in displaying the lengths to which Uncle Vernon will go to deny that magic exists.
* Harry's first visit to Diagon Alley with Hagrid. Full of curiosities and rich with magic and marvel, Harry's first trip includes a trip to Gringotts and Ollivanders, where Harry gets his wand (holly and phoenix feather) and discovers yet another connection to He-Who-Must-No-Be-Named. This moment is the reader's first full introduction to Rowling's world of witchcraft and wizards.
* Harry's experience with the Sorting Hat.

Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
* The de-gnoming of the Weasleys' garden. Harry discovers that even wizards have chores—gnomes must be grabbed (ignoring angry protests "Gerroff me! Gerroff me!"), swung about (to make them too dizzy to come back), and tossed out of the garden—this delightful scene highlights Rowling's clever and witty genius.
* Harry's first experience with a Howler, sent to Ron by his mother.
* The Dueling Club battle between Harry and Malfoy. Gilderoy Lockhart starts the Dueling Club to help students practice spells on each other, but he is not prepared for the intensity of the animosity between Harry and Draco. Since they are still young, their minibattle is innocent enough, including tickling and dancing charms.

Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
* Ron's attempt to use a telephone to call Harry at the Dursleys'.
* Harry's first encounter with a Dementor on the train (and just about any other encounter with Dementors). Harry's brush with the Dementors is terrifying and prepares Potter fans for a darker, scarier book.
* Harry, Ron, and Hermione's behavior in Professor Trelawney's Divination class. Some of the best moments in Rowling's books occur when she reminds us that the wizards-in-training at Hogwarts are, after all, just children. Clearly, even at a school of witchcraft and wizardry, classes can be boring and seem pointless to children.
* The Boggart lesson in Professor Lupin's classroom.
* Harry, Ron, and Hermione's knock-down confrontation with Snape.

Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
* Hermione's disgust at the reception for the veela (Bulgarian National Team Mascots) at the Quidditch World Cup. Rowling's fourth book addresses issues about growing up—the dynamic between the boys and girls at Hogwarts starts to change. Nowhere is this more plain than the hilarious scene in which magical cheerleaders nearly convince Harry and Ron to jump from the stands to impress them.
* Viktor Krum's crush on Hermione—and Ron's objection to it.
* Malfoy's "Potter Stinks" badge.
* Hermione's creation of S.P.E.W., the intolerant bigotry of the Death Eaters, and the danger of the Triwizard Tournament. Add in the changing dynamics between girls and boys at Hogwarts, and suddenly Rowling's fourth book has a weight and seriousness not as present in early books in the series. Candy and tickle spells are left behind as the students tackle darker, more serious issues and take on larger responsibilities, including the knowledge of illegal curses.

Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

* Harry's outburst to his friends at No. 12 Grimmauld Place. A combination of frustration over being kept in the dark and fear that he will be expelled fuels much of Harry's anger, and it all comes out at once, directly aimed at Ron and Hermione. Rowling perfectly portrays Harry's frustration at being too old to shirk responsibility, but too young to be accepted as part of the fight that he knows is coming.
* Harry's detention with Professor Umbridge. Rowling shows her darker side, leading readers to believe that Hogwarts is no longer a safe haven for young wizards. Dolores represents a bureaucratic tyrant capable of real evil, and Harry is forced to endure their private battle of wills alone.
* Harry and Cho's painfully awkward interactions. Rowling clearly remembers what it was like to be a teenager.
* Harry's Occlumency lessons with Snape.
* Dumbledore's confession to Harry.

Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

* The introduction of the Horcrux.
* Molly Weasley asking Arthur Weasley about his "dearest ambition." Rowling has always been great at revealing little intriguing bits about her characters at a time, and Arthur’s answer "to find out how airplanes stay up" reminds us about his obsession with Muggles.
* Harry's private lessons with Dumbledore, and more time spent with the fascinating and dangerous pensieve, arguably one of Rowling’s most ingenious inventions.
* Fred and George Weasley’s Joke Shop, and the slogan: "Why Are You Worrying About You-Know-Who? You Should Be Worrying About U-NO-POO—the Constipation Sensation That's Gripping the Nation!"
* Luna's Quidditch commentary. Rowling created scores of Luna Lovegood fans with hilarious and bizarre commentary from the most unlikely Quidditch commentator.
* The effects of Felix Felicis.

Magic, Mystery, and Mayhem: A Conversation with J.K. Rowling

"I am an extraordinarily lucky person, doing what I love best in the world. I’m sure that I will always be a writer. It was wonderful enough just to be published. The greatest reward is the enthusiasm of the readers." —J.K. Rowling

Find out more about Harry's creator in our exclusive interview with J.K. Rowling.

Did You Know? The Little White Horse was J.K. Rowling's favorite book as a child. </ a> Jane Austen is Rowling's favorite author. Roddy Doyle is Rowling's favorite living writer.

A Few Words from Mary GrandPré

"When I illustrate a cover or a book, I draw upon what the author tells me; that's how I see my responsibility as an illustrator. J.K. Rowling is very descriptive in her writing—she gives an illustrator a lot to work with. Each story is packed full of rich visual descriptions of the atmosphere, the mood, the setting, and all the different creatures and people. She makes it easy for me. The images just develop as I sketch and retrace until it feels right and matches her vision." Check out more Harry Potter art from illustrator Mary GrandPré.

J.K. Rowling Read by Jim Dale

Running time: 20 hrs., 30 mins. 12 cassettes

Harry Potter returns to Hogwarts for his fourth year of magical adventures in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. This year Harry turns 14 and becomes interested in girls — one in particular. And with Dark Magic comes danger, as someone close to Harry dies. You'll have to listen to learn more! The audio is available on July 8th.

J. K. Rowling We could tell you, but then we'd have to Obliviate your memory.

J. K. Rowling We could tell you, but then we'd have to Obliviate your memory.

J.K. Rowling Harry Potter has to sneak back to Hogwarts, after accidentally inflating his horrible Aunt Petunia. But once there everyone is whispering about a prizoner who has escaped from the famous wizard prizon, Azkaban. His name is Sirius Black, and as a follower of Lord Voldemort he is determined to track Harry Potter down — even if it means laying siege to the very walls of Hogwarts!

J.K. Rowling Read by Jim Dale
8 hours 17 minutes, 6 cassettes

Harry Potter has no idea how famous he is. That's because he's being raised by his miserable aunt and uncle who are terrified Harry will learn that he's really a wizard, just as his parents were. But everything changes when Harry is summoned to attend an infamous school for wizards, and he begins to discover some clues about his illustrious birthright. From the surprising way he is greeted by a lovable giant, to the unique curriculum and colorful faculty at his unusual school, Harry finds himself drawn deep inside a mystical world he never knew existed and closer to his own noble destiny.

Gene Zion Harry is a white dog with black spots who hates to take a bath.

One day he gets so dirty he has black fur with white spots!

Where's Harry?

Tedd Arnold Boy and fly meet and so begins a beautiful friendship. Er, and so begins a very funny friendship. Using hyperbole, puns, slapstick, and silly drawings, bestselling author/illustrator Tedd Arnold creates an easy reader that is full of fun. "A pop-eyed, self-confident mite in Arnold's droll cartoon illustrations, Fly Guy's up to any challenge, whether it be eating a hot dog (well, most of it, anyway), or performing amazing aerial acrobatics; readers drawn by the flashy foil cover will stick around to applaud this unusually capable critter." —Kirkus Reviews

Combines phonics and word recognition, making sounds and letters recognizable. Highly recommended. Full color.

Dr. Seuss Six Seussian pop-ups
spring into the air!
With this little book,
show Dad that you care!

Text and art from several classic Dr. Seuss books have been carefully pulled together into one fun little book with engaging pop-ups.

Dr. Seuss Horton, the lovable elephant, tries to protect tiny creatures on a speck of dust. An easy reader with delightful verse and pictures. Full-color illustrations. Ages 4-8.

Format: Hardcover, 58pp. ISBN: 0394800788 Publisher: Random House, Incorporated Pub. Date: May 1976 Recommend Age Range: 4 to 7

Dr Seuss

Edward Allan Faine One hundred years ago Rudyard Kipling told us how the whale got his throat, the camel his hump, the leopard his spots and the rhinocerous his skin. Now, at long last, Edward Allan Faine tells us how the frog got his voice. The frog's first word: freedom (BREE-DUP). His second: rabbit (RIB-BIT).

In this fun-filled picture book illustrated by Jim Hunt, we not only learn how and why the frog first croaked, but are subtly reminded of life's verities: that rights are not endowed, but secured by protest; that nothing is gained without effort; that communion with our fellow man and nature are utmost; and that we are all here to discover our voice, our uniqueness, our individuality. All these thing play out in this redemptive tale of a frog who, when it counts most, finds his voice. BREE-DUP!

Story Synopsis:
Once upon a pond there lived a frog who couldn't talk, and that made him very unhappy. Without a voice he couldn't make friends with the other animals. Then one night the frogs are snatched from their pond and carted away to a dark barn. With no sound the frogs could not cry for help, and no one could see their signs of protest. Our frog had to let the people know what the frogs wanted: their freedom. He summoned his courage — and with great effort — gulped and bulged and stretched his throat and belched out BREE-DUP (freedom, well, close enough, anyway). The other frogs followed suit and joined in the freedom chorus: BREE-DUP! BREE-DUP! Shocked and amazed, the people released the "mad frogs," who leapfrogged back to the safety of their pond. Finally, the frog was happy. He had found his voice. He could say freedom. He could learn other words, too, like rabbit. RIB-BIT! And make friends with the other animals.

Dr. Seuss You're a mean one, Mr. Grinch. But are you rotten enough to ruin Whoville's Christmas Whobilation this year, even after Cindy Lou Who nominates you to be the Cheermeister of the event? Based on Dr. Seuss's wacky and wonderful classic picture book, How the Grinch Stole Christmas and the motion picture screenplay of the same name, this novelization elaborates on the story of a holiday gone awry. Little Cindy Lou Who, her cheerfully dopey dad, Lou Lou Who, her semi-delinquent teenage brothers Stu and Drew Lou Who, the Martha Stewartesque Martha May Whovier, and the nastiest, most cynical, evil-hearted Grinch around star in this Christmas comedy. Seventeen color photos from the film are included. (Ages 8 to 12) —Emilie Coulter

Laura Joffe Numeroff This is a best selling book by Felicia Bond and Laura Numeroff. This is the story of the consequences of giving a cookie to an energetic mouse that runs the host ragged, but young readers will come away smiling at the antics that tumble like dominoes through the pages of this delightful picture book.

Laura Joffe Numeroff Laura Numeroff, illustrations Felicia Bond. A boy offers a passing mouse a cookie, promoting the need for a glass of milk, a straw, a look in the mirror- until the exhausting activities require a glass of milk and a cookie. A light confection as suited for use in preschool story hours as for beginning readers.

Thomas, Sir Malory The tales of Camelot, including those of King Arthur, Merlin the Magician, Excalibur, Lady Guinevere, and more, are retold in a clear, concise, and exciting style with the addition of full-color, comic-strip-style art to enhance the legendary adventures.

Golden Books THESE TWO TITLES mark the debut of a beautiful new line of treasuries, perfect for gift-giving. Everyone’s favorite Little Golden Books can be found in their entirety, from Sailor Dog to I Can Fly to The Poky Little Puppy, plus new favorites, too! A supreme value at $14.95, these deluxe volumes will stand apart with their gold-edged pages, unforgettable stories, and gorgeously reproduced artwork.

Golden Books THESE TWO TITLES mark the debut of a beautiful new line of treasuries, perfect for gift-giving. Everyone’s favorite Little Golden Books can be found in their entirety, from Sailor Dog to I Can Fly to The Poky Little Puppy, plus new favorites, too! A supreme value at $14.95, these deluxe volumes will stand apart with their gold-edged pages, unforgettable stories, and gorgeously reproduced artwork.

Dr. Seuss, Theodor Seuss Geisel When Dr. Seuss gets serious, you know it must be important. Published in 1971, and perhaps inspired by the "save our planet" mindset of the 1960s, The Lorax is an ecological warning that still rings true today amidst the dangers of clear-cutting, pollution, and disregard for the earth's environment. In The Lorax, we find what we've come to expect from the illustrious doctor: brilliantly whimsical rhymes, delightfully original creatures, and weirdly undulating illustrations. But here there is also something more—a powerful message that Seuss implores both adults and children to heed.

The now remorseful Once-ler—our faceless, bodiless narrator—tells the story himself. Long ago this enterprising villain chances upon a place filled with wondrous Truffula Trees, Swomee-Swans, Brown Bar-ba- loots, and Humming-Fishes. Bewitched by the beauty of the Truffula Tree tufts, he greedily chops them down to produce and mass-market Thneeds. ("It's a shirt. It's a sock. It's a glove. It's a hat.") As the trees swiftly disappear and the denizens leave for greener pastures, the fuzzy yellow Lorax (who speaks for the trees "for the trees have no tongues") repeatedly warns the Once-ler, but his words of wisdom are for naught. Finally the Lorax extricates himself from the scorched earth (by the seat of his own furry pants), leaving only a rock engraved "UNLESS." Thus, with his own colorful version of a compelling morality play, Dr. Seuss teaches readers not to fool with Mother Nature. But as you might expect from Seuss, all hope is not lost—the Once-ler has saved a single Truffula Tree seed! Our fate now rests in the hands of a caring child, who becomes our last chance for a clean, green future. (Ages 4 to 8)

Aaron Shepard Shadusa was STRONG. When he gathered firewood, he hauled twice as much as anyone else. When he hunted, he carried home two antelopes at once.

One day he said to his wife, Shettu, "Just look at these muscles. I must be the STRONGEST man in the world. From now on, just call me Master Man...

"Quit your foolish boasting," Shettu replied. "No matter how strong you are, there will always be someone stronger. And someday you may meet him!"

In this traditional Hausa tale of superheroes, Shadusa must learn a lesson harder than his own muscles. Is he the ultimate Master Man?

Virginia Lee Burton Since it was first published in 1939, Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel has delighted generations of children. Mike and his trusty steam shovel, Mary Anne, dig deep canals for boats to travel through, cut mountain passes for trains, and hollow out cellars for city skyscrapers—the very symbol of industrial America. Now, for the first time, Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel is in board book format with an abbreviated text for its youngest audience. Here is a sturdy book perfect for reading and sharing with toddlers.

Serious silliness in a serious new size!

Dr. Seuss Hears an introduction for babies to the wonderful mishmash world of sounds. Listen to the cow's MOO, the frying eggs' SIZZLE, and the thunder's BOOM BOOM BOOM. There are plenty of noises for everyone!

Roger Hargreaves They're back! Rediscover the zaniest characters you've ever met in this best-selling series which has sold millions worldwide. Just in time for Fall 1997's hot new animated TV show, Mr. Men and Little Miss are being relaunched in the U. S. Bright and charming, with easily recognizable characters and a small take-along format, Mr. Men and Little Miss books are easy enough for young readers, witty enough for humor-prone adults, and highly collectible for one and all.

Roger Hargreaves They're back! Rediscover the zaniest characters you've ever met in this best-selling series which has sold millions worldwide. Just in time for Fall 1997's hot new animated TV show, Mr. Men and Little Miss are being relaunched in the U. S. Bright and e for Fall 1997's hot new animated TV show, Mr. Men and Little Miss are being relaunched in the U. S. Bright and charming, with easily recognizable characters and a small take-along format, Mr. Men and Little Miss books are easy enough for young readers, witty enough for humor-prone adults, and highly collectible for one and all!

Roger Hargreaves

Roger Hargreaves Mr. Strong may be a bit too strong for his own good. But if you need a helping hand—he—he's your man!

It's a book! It's a toy! No...it's a book that IS a toy!

They're books to read and toys to play with—all wrapped up in one terrific package! They're 3-D Mr. Men and Little Miss Storybooks—molded from plastic and shaped to look like four favorite Mr. Men and Little Miss characters! Within the sturdy plastic pages that make up each three-dimensional figure is a brand-new story about a beloved Mr. Men or Little Miss, told in the wacky, whimsical style that fans the world over have come to know and love. Unlike anything on the market before, these truly unique books-turned-toys are so extraordinary, they'll sell themselves off your shelves!

Roger Hargreaves

Hinkler These 6 chunky board books create a wonderful learning library for any child. Full of playfull, colorful animals, these books will inspire your child to explore the world around them.

Clement Clarke Moore

Christian Birmingham, Clement C. Moore This deluxe volume of the Christmas classic is nothing short of dazzling—an heirloom-quality treasure to take out each holiday season and read aloud with family and friends. This elegantly designed version is printed on heavy art stock, with cloth binding, tipped-on illustration, and foil stamping in copper and gold. Vibrant full-color images and debossed duotone spot art by award-winning British illustrator Christian Birmingham bring Moore's beloved poem, Account of a Visit from St. Nicholas, to life as never before.

Al Perkins "I see a nose on every face. I see noses every place!” Noses come in all shapes, colors, and sizes and are handy to have for sniffling, smelling, and . . . playing horns? This simple, sometimes silly story offers little ones a first ode to the nose and all that it does.

Dr. Seuss In this joyous ode to life and success, Dr. Seuss's message is simple but never sappy: Life may be a "Great Balancing Act," but through it all, "There's fun to be done."

Format: Hardcover ISBN: 0679805273 Publisher: Random House, Incorporated Pub. Date: January 1990

It's OLIVIA...

the Caldecott Honor Book and New York Times #1 best-seller, now in a sturdy format perfect for pig-loving toddlers everywhere!

Nancy Tillman On the night you were born,
the moon smiled with such wonder
that the stars peeked in to see you
and the night wind whispered.
“Life will never be the same.”

On the night you were born, the whole world came alive with thanksgiving. The moon stayed up till morning. The geese flew home to celebrate. Polar bears danced.

On the night you were born you brought wonder and magic to the world. Here is a book that celebrates you. It is meant to be carried wherever life takes you, over all the roads, through all the years.

Dr. Seuss Theodor Seuss Geisel Description coming soon...

Richard Zulewski

Annette Taulbee

Glenda Frasier

J.M. Barrie Peter, Wendy, Captain Hook, the lost boys, and Tinker Bell have filled the hearts of children ever since Barrie's play first opened in London in 1904 and became an immediate sensation. Now this funny, haunting modern myth is presented with Bedford's wonderful illustrations, which first appeared in the author's own day, have long been out of print, and have never been equaled.

Anne A Farrell

Janette Sebring Lowrey One of the original 12 Little Golden Books, The Poky Little Puppy has sold nearly 15 million copies since 1942, making it one of the most popular children’s books of all time. Now this curious little puppy is ready to win the hearts and minds of a new generation of kids.

Una Belle Townsend It's Christmas Eve morning on the Daytona track, and the fans are filling the stands to watch a special holiday race. Everything is going according to plan, but as the drivers begin to enter the track, a new car pulls up, ready to join the Christmas competition.

It's Santy Claus, and he's prepared for anything with his tinsel-covered racecar and his red, fireproof suit. On his helmet are paintings of delicious fudge and bon bons that look good enough to eat. Santy's traveled across the globe and back, all in one night, but this Christmas Eve, here on the Daytona track, old Saint Nick is in for a challenge.

With peppermint candies and jingle bells rolling around the car, Santy must outrace the best drivers in the league. Colorful illustrations bring the story to life and add to the excitement as Santy must overcome a broken driveshaft and flying debris to win this race. Exciting and hilarious, Racecar Night Before Christmas is a perfect addition to the Night Before Christmas Series and any holiday collection.

Cecile Schoberle Guess who's coming to Tommy's house? Reptar, that's who! Tommy can't wait to meet his "dinnersaur" hero. But will Angelica ruin all the fun? Find out in this original Rugrats story!

Frances Hodgson Burnett The Secret Garden, a classic loved for more than seventy-five years, is all that its title implies. It is, as one might imagine, a mystery. But it is also a love story and the love is as passionate and fervent as one could imagine. It is a story of the love of nature, of science and the scientific method, and of isolated and lonely human beings who learn to care not only for others, but equally important, for themselves. This deluxe Children’s Classic edition is produced with high-quality, leatherlike binding with gold stamping, full-color covers, colored endpapers with a book nameplate. Some of the other titles in this series include: Anne of Green Gables, Black Beauty, King Arthur and His Knights, Little Women, and Treasure Island.

Frances Hodgson Burnett This resource is directly related to its literature equivalent and filled with a variety of cross-curricular lessons to do before, during, and after reading the book. This reproducible book includes sample plans, author information, vocabulary building ideas, cross-curriculum activities, sectional activities and quizzes, unit tests, and ideas for culminating and extending the novel.

Sssssshhhhh! You are about to open secret files, heretofore hidden from kids for thousandsof years. Steel your mind for the truth. Prepare yourself for knowledge never before held by Americas youth. Learn the real reasons grown-ups tell you to do things! Caldecott medalistDavid Wisniewskis surprising revelations will have you rolling in the aisles.

Urgent!It's happened again!

David Wisniewski has completed another daring raid into the vault of parent rules. Within these forbidden pages lurk the real reasons why grown-ups want you to brush your teeth, eat your breakfast, and clean under your bed. The truth has been hidden for centuries, but the time of mystery is over.

Grab a flashlight! Get under cover! It's time for ...

The Secret Knowledge of Grown-Ups!
The Second File

Dr. Seuss

Leora Tanenbaum Girls may be called "sluts" for any number of reasons, including being outsiders, early developers, victims of rape, targets of others' revenge. Often the labels has nothing to do with sex — the girls simply do not fit in.  An important account of the lives of these young women, Slut! weaves together powerful oral histories of girls and women who finally overcame their sexual labels with a cogent analysis of the underlying problem of sexual stereotyping.

Author Leora Tanenbaum herself was labeled a slut in high school.  The confessional article she wrote for Seventeen about the experience caused a sensation and led her to write this book.

Disney Book Club

Alison McGhee A mother's love leads to a mother's dream — every mother's dream — for her child to live life to its fullest.

A deceptively simple, powerful ode to the potential of love and the potential in life, Someday is the book you'll want to share with someone else...today. The perfect gift for Mother's Day, Graduation Day or Any Day - share a copy with every special person in your life.

Tyne O'Connell How many fit boys can Calypso handle?Calypso has decided that Prince Freddie is the one for her, but does her new roommate, the privileged Lady Portia, also have designs on him? To make matters worse, Calypso's best friends Star and Georgina are no longer her roommates; they are living instead with Indie-a new student and a real princess! Poor Calypso is feeling left out. How could her plans have gone so horribly wrong? Readers who have been anticipating the next installment in the Calypso Chronicles won't be disappointed as Calypso takes on more boys, bunnies, and Brits in her hilarious and inimitable style!

Janell Cannon Stellaluna has been charming picture-book readers for years with its moving tale of a lost little bat who learns a big lesson about friendship. This bestseller has now been adapted as a board book, the perfect format to introduce younger readers to Janell Cannon's enchanting tale and gorgeous art.

The Sparrowhawk's crew set sail October 12 from London in hopes of reaching Jamestown, Virginia. On November 6 our ship crashed in fog on what the captain told us was a New England shore.

So begins the journal of thirteen-year –old indentured servant Christopher Sears. Rescued by Indians, Chirstopher anf the crew are taken to Plimoth Plantation. There, the young boy finds a place for himself and begins detailing his life with the Pilgrims'the births, deaths, marriages, and the important role that the Indians play in the settlers' lives. When a ship arrives nearly a year later to take the stranded passengers to Jamestown. Christopher finds he doesn't want to leave. But he is still indentured to Captain Sibsey, who won't set him free. Can his new friends help him? Or will he be forced to leave the community that has given him a home?

Careful research from historical accounts makes this an exciting story of one boy's coming of age as well as an informative reconstruction of the Pilgrims' daily life. "In this beautifully illustrated work, Bowen provides a well-researched, fictional diary of a young Plimoth settler named Christopher Sears, who documents the trials and tribulations of the year 1626. His diary is decorated with woodcuts...rich, powerful images inked with colors suitable to the time."—BL. "An enthralling account...Bowen's reputation rests secure as the crafter of scrupulously researched, beautifully illustrated stories."—K.

Notable Children's Trade Book in Social Studies for 1995 (NCSS/CBC)
1994 "Pick of the Lists" (ABA)
1995 Children's Information Book Award (IRA)
1995 Teachers' Choices (IRA)
Best Children's Book of 1994 (Parenting)
Children's Books of 1994 (NY Public Library)

100 Books for Reading and Sharing 1994 (NY Public Library)

David Wisniewski "Grrr!" growl the cats. "Eeek!" squeak the mice. So it goes in the battle between cat and mouse. But when feline crime hits Tokyo, an unlikely hero strikes back. He's not lean and mean. He's round and profound. He's Sumo Mouse! And he's ready to wrestle all wrongdoers. But can this champion of justice squash the sinister schemes of Dr. Claw? Or will evil pin Sumo Mouse to the mat? Caldecott-winning illustrator David Wisniewski has wrestled brightly colored papers into fun, comic book-inspired collages for this action-packed mouse tale.

Beatrix Potter This 4.13 x 5.51 inch hardcover book is one of the most beloved children's stories of all time! Author: Beatrix PotterIllustrator: Beatrix Potter Publisher: Penguin Putnam

A lion, a dog, and a tiger are having a contest—can they get ten apples piled up on top of their heads? You better believe it! This first counting book works as a teaching tool as well as a funny story.

Marge Blaine

Judith B. Stamper

H. G. Wells

Meet Toby, a mouse who likes to sing and romp, read, and play. Every day is a new adventure as Toby discovers the many wonderful things about being a preschooler. Toby is curious, kind, and extra special — just like you!

Note to Parents: Learning the alphabet is an important first step for children. Toby makes this experience fun and entertaining. This charming storybook is perfect as an introduction to the alphabet and as a review for toddlers who already know their ABC's.

Eric Carle This Very Hungry Caterpillar will eat it's way through the pages, straight into your child's heart! Author: Eric Carle Illustrator: Eric Carle Publisher: Penguin Putnam

Franz Brandenberg

Tom Lichtenheld What Are You So Grumpy About? takes all the tiny (or not so tiny) things that can annoy you and makes them funny instead. Tom Lichtenheld's colorful, laugh-out-loud images are full of fantastic details that will be a hit with readers of all ages. A surprise ending makes this book perfect for the grump in every family.

Angela Littler, Maureen Galvani

Julie Aigner-Clark Violet the mouse loves to explore the world around her and discovers something new and unique each time. In this book, young children will follow Violet as she observes a variety of birds in their different environments and experiences the joy of discovering a beautiful feather.

Ruth Dr Westheimer Dr. Ruth Westheimer, the world's foremost sex therapist, uses her warmth, candor, and enthusiasm to educate children about a very tiny word, sex. Charmingly illustrated by Jane Massey.

Kenneth Grahame

Quentin Reynolds Young Orville and Wilbur Wright loved building things. From the fastest sled in town to the highest-flying kite, the Wright brothers’ creations were always a step ahead of everyone else’s. They grew up learning all about mechanics from fixing bicycles and studied math and physics. On December 17, 1903, Orville took off in the world’s first flying machine! The Wright airplane is one of the most amazing–and life-changing–