New Fiction For Kids

Secrets of Shakespeare's Grave by Deron R. Hicks
Twelve-year-old Colophon Letterford has a serious mystery on her hands. Will she discover the link between her family’s literary legacy and Shakespeare’s tomb before it’s too late? Antique paintings, secret passages, locked mausoleums, a four-hundred-year-old treasure, and a cast of quirky (and some ignoble) characters all add up to a fun original adventure. Readers will revel in a whirlwind journey through literary time and space in real-world locales from Mont St. Michel to Stratford-Upon-Avon to Central Park!

Chickadee by Louise Erdrich

In 1866, Omakayas's son Chickadee is kidnapped by two ne'er-do-well brothers from his own tribe and must make a daring escape, forge unlikely friendships, and set out on an exciting and dangerous journey to get back home.

Sophia's War by Avi

Lives hang in the balance in this gripping Revolutionary War adventure from a beloved Newbery medalist.In 1776, young Sophia Calderwood witnesses the execution of Nathan Hale in New York City, which is newly occupied by the British army. Sophia is horrified by the event and resolves to do all she can to help the American cause. Recruited as a spy, she becomes a maid in the home of General Clinton, the supreme commander of the British forces in America. Through her work she becomes aware that someone in the American army might be switching sides, and she uncovers a plot that will grievously damage the Americans if it succeeds. But the identity of the would-be traitor is so shocking that no one believes her, and so Sophia decides to stop the treacherous plot herself, at great personal peril: She’s young, she’s a girl, and she’s running out of time. And if she fails, she’s facing an execution of her own.

     Master storyteller Avi shows exactly how personal politics can be in this riveting novel that is rich in historical detail and rife with action.

Ungifted by Gordon Korman

The word "gifted" has never been applied to a kid like Donovan Curtis. It's usually more like "Don't try this at home." So when the troublemaker pulls a major prank at his middle school, he thinks he's finally gone too far. But thanks to a mix-up by one of the administrators, instead of getting in trouble, Donovan is sent to the Academy of Scholastic Distinction (ASD), a special program for gifted and talented students.

It wasn't exactly what Donovan had intended, but there couldn't be a more perfect hideout for someone like him. That is, if he can manage to fool people whose IQs are above genius level. And that becomes harder and harder as the students and teachers of ASD grow to realize that Donovan may not be good at math or science (or just about anything). But after an ongoing experiment with a live human (sister), an unforgettably dramatic middle-school dance, and the most astonishing come-from-behind robot victory ever, Donovan shows that his "gifts" might be exactly what the ASD students never knew they needed.

New Children's Picture Books

This is Not My Hat by Jon Klassen

A fish has stolen a hat. And he'll probably get away with it. Probably.

Vampirina Ballerina by Anne Marie Pace

Oh, to be a ballerina! It's a challenge for any little girl, but even more so if you happen to be a vampire like Vampirina. First of all, you have to find a class that meets at night. Then you have to figure out how to perfect your form when you can't see yourself in the mirror? And then there's wearing pink (not the most flattering of colors if you happen to be undead) and that nagging urge to take a little nip out of the other dancers. And worse of all... STAGE FRIGHT!!!

Alfie Is Not Afraid by Patricia Carlin

A boy and his brave puppy are ready to camp out in their backyard! The boy's not scared because if things go bump in the night, he knows Alfie will protect him: from space invaders, boa constrictors, and even alligators! Alfie's not afraid of anything! Right, Alfie? ....Alfie? In her picture book debut, Patricia Carlin introduces readers to Alfie and his boy, a lovable duo who will leave everyone howling with laughter.

Lovabye Dragon by Barbara Joosse

When a lonely dragon follows a trail of princess tears, a beautiful friendship is born. They march and sing, roar and whisper, hide and seek, then settle into snug companionship at bedtime. Barbara Joosse’s fiercely protective and gently loving dragon cavorts across the pages, endearingly illustrated by Randy Cecil. At the end of the day, who can resist curling up in the embrace of a lovabye dragon?

Fall in love with some of these Autumn children's titles

Family Fun Tricks and Treats
Disney Editions is proud to join in the celebration and feature our highly successful series of FamilyFun books. Continuing in the magazine's spirit as a creative guide to all the fun things families can do together, the books in this trusted series are packed with hundreds of family-tested recipes, party ideas, crafts, and much, much more. Whether you're looking for the perfect Christmas cookie or the creepiest Halloween decorations; planning your kids' birthday party or searching for creative crafts to fill an afternoon, these invaluable resources will become the most paged-through books on your shelves.All of the books provide step-by-step, easy-to-follow instructions for parents and kids. These books prove that there is no greater authority on new and fun ways to spend time with your family than the experts at FamilyFun.

How do Apples Grow? by Betsy Maestro
ApplesHave you ever eaten part of a flower? You have if you have eaten an apple Find out how an apple grows from bud to flower to fruit--ready for you to pick Apples

Have you ever eaten a part of a flower? You have if you have eaten an apple Find out how an apple grows from bud to flower to fruit--ready for you to pick

The Penny Whistle Halloween Book by Meredith Brokaw & Annie Gilbar
Make this Halloween a safe, spooky, and happy one with these bewitching ideas From carving a not-so-traditional pumpkin to dressing a miniature mermaid, here are hundreds ways to scare up the best Halloween ever. You'll find plans for nine unforgettable parties appropriate for toddlers through teens, including:

* Inspiration and Instructions for Unusual Costumes
* Ghoulish Games
* Devilishly Clever Decorations
* Diabolically Delicious Recipes
* A Pumpkin-Patch Worth of Jack-O'-Lanterns

Turn your home into a happy haunting ground with "The Penny Whistle(TM) Halloween Book."

Apples by Ken Robbins
Crunchy and tasty, sweet and tart, in colorful shades of red, yellow,
and green -- sometimes all three -- everyone loves apples In this lively and vibrant book, young readers will learn how apples grow, from the planting of a tree, to the pollination of buds by bees, and on to the harvest. And then comes the fun part as apples are used to tease the taste buds in so many ways -- in pies and strudel, in cider and applesauce, but most of all, in that one simple crunch when one bites into an apple's crisp sweetness. Ken Robbins's hand-colored photographs will make you want to take a bite yourself

Summer Beach Books For Kids

Life in the Ocean: The story of oceanographer Sylvia Earle by Claire A. Nivola

Sylvia Earle first lost her heart to the ocean as a young girl when she discovered the wonders of the Gulf of Mexico in her backyard. As an adult, she dives even deeper. Whether she’s designing submersibles, swimming with the whales, or taking deep-water walks, Sylvia Earle has dedicated her life to learning more about what she calls “the blue heart of the planet.” With stunningly detailed pictures of the wonders of the sea,Life in the Ocean tells the story of Sylvia’s growing passion and how her ocean exploration and advocacy have made her known around the world. This picture book biography also includes an informative author’s note that will motivate young environmentalists.

Beachcombing: exploring the seashore by Jim Arnosky

Young sunbathers can learn all about the wonders at the water's edge with Jim Arnosky's fascinating guide. With friendly notes and detailed illustrations of everything from ghost crabs to shark teeth, this award-winning author and wildlife expert outfits kids with the knowledge they need to become avid beachcombers. Take it along on a family vacation or school trip, or make the beach come alive at home with this personal tour of the shore.

Why Do Oceans Have Tides? by Marian B. Jacobs

"Why?" is a question that every child asks. Here we present clear, scientific answers to questions about the world that surrounds your students. The answers to such questions as "Why is the sky blue?" and "Why does the ocean have tides?" tie in to physical, natural, and life science curricula while providing explanations for universal phenomena.

Seashore Life by Jenna Kinghorn

Offering a close up look at seashore life--both in the ocean and on the beach--this pocket-sized guide helps kids identify sea animals, plants and shells. Full-color illustrations.

New fiction for kids this week!

Dragonborn by Toby Forward

When Flaxfield the great wizard dies, his apprentice Sam is left without a master. Sam has great power-but he doesn't know it yet. All he knows is that he needs a new master if he wants to finish his education in magic.

With his dragon Starback at his side, Sam sets out alone on his quest. But there are those who want Sam's power for themselves, dangerous forces who are waiting for his first mistake so they can attack. When Sam is tricked into making a mortal error, only Starback can save him, thanks to a bond between them that is deeper than either of them know.

Mrs. Noodlekugel by Daniel Pinkwater

Nick and Maxine live in a tall building with one apartment on top of another. So when they look out their window and see a little house they never knew was there, of course they must visit (especially when their parents tell them not to!). Going through the boiler room, they're amazed to find to a secret backyard with a garden, a porch, and a statue of a cat. And they're even more amazed when that cat starts to talk. . . . Welcome to the world of Mrs. Noodlekugel, where felines converse and serve cookies and tea, vision-impaired mice join the party (but may put crumbs up their noses), and children in search of funny adventures are drawn by the warm smell of gingerbread and the promise of magical surprises.

The Extraordinary education of Nicholas Benedict by Trenton Lee Stewart

Nine-year-old Nicholas Benedict has more problems than most children his age. Not only is he an orphan with an unfortunate nose, but he also has narcolepsy, a condition that gives him terrible nightmares and makes him fall asleep at the worst possible moments.

Now he's being sent to a new orphanage, where he will encounter vicious bullies, selfish adults, strange circumstances – and a mystery that could change his life forever. Luckily, he does have one thing in his favor: He's a a genius.

On his quest to solve the mystery, Nicholas finds enemies around every corner, but also friends in unexpected places – and discovers along the way that the greatest puzzle of all is himself.

The Dunderheads Behind Bars by Paul Fleischman

School is out for the summer, and the Dunderheads are finally rid of the awful Miss Breakbone. Or so they thought! Teen star Ashley Throbb-Hart is shooting a movie nearby, and who should show up as an extra but their formidable former teacher! She's not the only Breakbone on the scene, either; after a string of burglaries strikes town, Miss Breakbone steers her barrel-chested brother, Police Chief Breakbone, toward those meddling, good-for-nothing Dunderheads. And when Spider ends up in the wrong place at the wrong time, the blowhard chief has all the evidence he needs to lock him up. Can Einstein, Wheels, Nails, Spitball, Google-Eyes, Clips, Junkyard, Pencil, and Hollywood combine their talents to catch the real criminal before they join their friend behind bars? Newbery Medalist Paul Fleischman and illustrator David Roberts reunite for a delightfully triumphant sequel to The Dunderheads

Notable and new biographies for kids!

There Goes Ted Williams by Matt Tavares

Ted Williams lived a life of dedication and passion. He was an ordinary kid who wanted one thing: to hit a baseball better than anyone else. So he practiced his swing every chance he got. He did fingertip push-ups. He ate a lot of food. He practiced his swing again. And then practiced it some more. From his days playing ball in North Park as a kid to his unmatched .406 season in 1941 to his heroic tours of duty as a fighter pilot in World War II and Korea, the story of Teddy Ballgame is the story of an American hero. In this engrossing biography, a companion to Henry Aaron's Dream, Matt Tavares makes Ted Williams's life story accessible to a whole new generation of fans who are sure to admire the hard work, sacrifice, and triumph of the greatest hitter who ever lived.

Just behave, Pablo Picasso! by Jonah Winter

An inspiration to anyone who's ever felt judged!

"One day the world is a peaceful, lovely landscape painting... The next day - BLAM! - Pablo bursts through the canvas, paintbrush in hand, ready to paint something fresh and new."

Pablo Picasso may have been one of the most famous artists of the 20th century, but that doesn't mean he painted what people wanted him to paint! In fact, some people hated his paintings, and called them "ugly!" and "terrible!" -- something many kids can relate to. But Picasso didn't listen to all those people, and kept on working the way he wanted to work, until he created something so new, so different... that people didn't know what to say!

For every young artist who's drawn something other kids think is "ugly," this story of rebellion and creativity is sure to inspire.

Amelia Lost by Candace Fleming

From the acclaimed author of The Great and Only Barnum—as well asThe Lincolns, Our Eleanor, and Ben Franklin's Almanac—comes the thrilling story of America's most celebrated flyer, Amelia Earhart. In alternating chapters, Fleming deftly moves readers back and forth between Amelia's life (from childhood up until her last flight) and the exhaustive search for her and her missing plane. With incredible photos, maps, and handwritten notes from Amelia herself—plus informative sidebars tackling everything from the history of flight to what Amelia liked to eat while flying (tomato soup)—this unique nonfiction title is tailor-made for middle graders.

Temple Grandin by Sy Montgomery

When Temple Grandin was born, her parents knew that she was different. Years later she was diagnosed with autism.
   While Temple’s doctor recommended a hospital, her mother believed in her. Temple went to school instead.
   Today, Dr. Temple Grandin is a scientist and professor of animal science at Colorado State University. Her world-changing career revolutionized the livestock industry. As an advocate for autism, Temple uses her experience as an example of the unique contributions that autistic people can make.
   This compelling biography complete with Temple’s personal photos takes us inside her extraordinary mind and opens the door to a broader understanding of autism.

New picture books for kids!

Split! Splat! by Amy Gibson

I sing a little rain song, a simple song, a plain song, a pitter-patter-tip-tap-on-the-windowpane song. Drip drop, plip plop, pit pat, split splat! Put down your umbrella! Take off your galoshes! It's time to sing and dance in the rain. When one little girl and her adorable dog venture out on a rainy, spring day, the neighborhood joins her and what results is squishy, sloshy, muddy day fun.

Amy Gibson’s simple, whimsical rhymes and New York Times bestselling illustrator Steve Bjorkman’s bright and sweet illustrations create the perfect celebration of nature and friendship in this springtime, anytime rhyme!

Over and Under the Snow by Kate Messner

Over the snow, the world is hushed and white.

But under the snow is a secret world of squirrels and snowshoe hares, bears and bullfrogs, and many other animals who live through the winter, safe and warm under the snow.

The King Who Wouldn't Sleep by Debbie Singleton

A brilliantly colourful and enchanting picture book story that can also be used to teach children the days of the week and to count one to ten.

There once was a king who wouldn't sleep -- not even a wink! -- until he found the perfect prince for his lovely daughter. Princes came from all around bearing gifts. Not one of them was right for the princess. But there was someone else watching with an unexpectedly cunning plan up his not-so-royal sleeve.

Baby Bear Sees Blue by Ashley Wolff

Explore the world of color with Baby Bear!Baby Bear has so much to learn about the world! From the moment he wakes until it’s time to curl up and go to sleep, he explores outside with his mama. They see green leaves, blue jays, brown trout, and—best of all—a patch of yummy red strawberries.From bestselling picture book creator Ashley Wolff, here is a clever concept book that combines engaging and intricate linocut illustrations with a story that enthusiastically encourages children to identify a variety of vibrant colors. Young readers will delight in this chance to join Baby Bear as he discovers the colorful wonders of his lively, leafy forest home.