#InclusiveBooks

Adorable Animals (National Geographic Kids Readers, Level 2)

Author: Mary Quattlebaum Genre: Early Readers

Travel around the world to meet the cutest animals on Earth! Learn all about fennec foxes, owls, wombats, monkeys, frogs, penguins, wild cats and more in this wide-ranging Level 2 reader from the National Geographic Kids leveled reader series, now with more than 200 books, from Pre-reader to Level 3. Explore deserts, grasslands, rainforests, the ocean, and even your own backyard to discover the most aww-inducing creatures on the planet. Dance with little fairy penguins, bob with bobtail squids, waddle with wombats, and so much more. Learn about their habitats, their behaviors, and just what makes these animals so absolutely adorable. National Geographic Readers' combination of expert-vetted text, brilliant images, and a fun approach to reading have proved to be a winning formula with kids, parents, and educators. This Level 2 text provides accessible information for animal-loving kids beginning to read independently, perfect to encourage the scientists and explorers of tomorrow! About the series: This high-interest, educationally vetted readers series features magnificent National Geographic images accompanied by text written by experienced, skilled children's book authors. Each reader includes a glossary and interactive features in which kids get to use what they've learned in the book. Level 1 readers reinforce the content of the book with a kinesthetic learning activity. Level 2 readers feature slightly higher-level text and additional vocabulary words. Level 3 readers have more layers of information to challenge more proficient readers. For emerging readers, the Pre-reader level introduces vocabulary and concepts, and the Co-reader level provides a collaborative reading experience. Praise for National Geographic Readers: "Reliable in format and solid in execution, this series works well to introduce children of varying levels of reading comfort to nonfiction and research formats." --Maggie Reagan, Booklist Complete your collection with National Geographic animal readers, including: National Geographic Readers: Pandas National Geographic Readers: Cheetahs National Geographic Readers: Wild Cats National Geographic Readers: Woof! 100 Fun Facts About Dogs National Geographic Readers: Cats vs. Dogs National Geographic Readers: Dolphins National Geographic Readers: Penguins National Geographic Readers: Koalas And more! Read more

Bat and the End of Everything (The Bat Series, 3)

Author: Elana K. Arnold Genre: Early Readers Illustrator: Charles Santoso

The third book in the Schneider Award Honor-winning series Katherine Applegate has called “tender and important,” by National Book Award finalist Elana K. Arnold. Bixby Alexander Tam (nicknamed Bat) has been the caretaker for Thor, the best skunk kit in the world...but the last day of third grade is quickly approaching, and Thor is almost ready to be released into the wild. The end of school also means that Bat has to say good-bye to his favorite teacher, and he worries about the summer care of Babycakes, their adorable class pet. Not only that, but his best friend is leaving for a long vacation in Canada. Summer promises good things, too, like working with his mom at the vet clinic and hanging out with his sister, Janie. But Bat can’t help but feel that everything is coming to an end. National Book Award finalist Elana K. Arnold returns with the third story starring an unforgettable boy on the autism spectrum. Elana K. Arnold's Bat series is a proven winner in the home and classroom—kids love these short illustrated young middle grade books. Other books in the Bat series include A Boy Called Bat, Bat and the Waiting Game, and Bat and the Business of Ferrets. How does a boy who loves routine and animals say goodbye to everything at once? An Autistic Protagonist: Readers will love Bat, a gentle and observant boy who feels things deeply and finds comfort in caring for animals and his love for routine. A Heartfelt Animal Story: Bat must prepare the beloved skunk kit, Thor, for release back into the wild, a task that tests his heart and courage. A Touching Friendship Story: With his best friend Israel leaving for a long summer vacation, Bat must navigate the changing seasons of friendship. Learning to Say Goodbye: From his favorite teacher to his cherished pet, Bat confronts the bittersweet challenge of endings and the promise of new beginnings. Read more

Charles Darwin and the Theory of Natural Selection: an educational graphic novel for kids ages 9+

Author: Alan J. Hesse Genre: Comics

In 1859, Charles Darwin unveiled to the world a theory so controversial that it shook the very foundations of science and theology. If you are a fan of Tintin , Maus , or the popular Science Comics series, you will love Charles Darwin and the Theory of Natural Selection . "Have you been searching for a fun and understandable way to introduce natural selection and evolution in your classroom? Look no further!" — National Science Teachers Association For most people, Darwin’s ground-breaking legacy remains shrouded in controversy. The detailed mechanics of the Theory of Evolution are often confined to Life Science academics. Yet Darwin’s work remains the best explanation we have for the incredible diversity of life on Earth — and it is central to school science curricula worldwide. Why this book? Researched and created on the Galápagos Islands themselves. Historically, geographically, and scientifically accurate. Explains Darwin’s theory in clear language with vivid comics. Ideal for both classroom teaching and independent learning . What readers will discover: How Darwin’s voyage to the Galápagos led to the Theory of Natural Selection. The scientific debates of his time — and Darwin’s own inner struggles. How natural selection works, explained simply and illustrated with humor. Perfect for: Parents seeking a fun, fact-based way to spark kids’ curiosity in science. Teachers looking for an engaging classroom resource on evolution. Adults curious about Darwin, the Galápagos, or the history of science. 👉 Bring Darwin’s world-changing journey to life in your home or classroom. Get your copy today and inspire the next generation of science thinkers! Read more

Curious George Joins the Team

Author: H. A. Rey Genre: Sports

Curious George has a playdate at a park designed for children of all abilities, perfect for his new friend, Tina, who uses a wheelchair. While they are playing together, Tina spots some kids playing her favorite game: basketball. George jumps right into the action, but Tina is too shy to ask to join. George suspects Tina is just as good—even better—than the other kids. Can he come up with a way to show the players she's got game and help her overcome her shyness? This story celebrates how kids of all abilities can play together! Read more

Flying Lessons & Other Stories

Author: Ellen Oh Genre: Anthology

Whether it is basketball dreams, family fiascos, first crushes, or new neighborhoods, this bold anthology—written by the best children’s authors—celebrates the uniqueness and universality in all of us. In a partnership with We Need Diverse Books, industry giants Kwame Alexander, Soman Chainani, Matt de la Peña, Tim Federle, Grace Lin, Meg Medina, Walter Dean Myers, Tim Tingle, and Jacqueline Woodson join newcomer Kelly J. Baptist in a story collection that is as humorous as it is heartfelt. This impressive group of authors has earned among them every major award in children’s publishing and popularity as New York Times bestsellers. From these distinguished authors come ten distinct and vibrant stories. Table of Contents & Cast of Narrators: “Foreword,” written and read by Ellen Oh “How to Transform an Everyday Hoop Court Into a Place of Higher Learning and You at the Podium” by Matt de la Peña, read by Dion Graham “The Difficult Path” by Grace Lin, read by Samantha Quan “Sol Painting, Inc.,” written and read by Meg Medina “Secret Samantha” by Tim Federle, read by Julia Whelan “The Beans and Rice Chronicles of Isaiah Dunn” by Kelly J. Baptist, read by Adam Lazarre-White “Choctaw Bigfoot, Midnight in the Mountains,” written and read by Tim Tingle “Main Street” by Jacqueline Woodson, read by Abigail Revasch “Flying Lessons” by Soman Chainani, read by Sunil Malhotra “Seventy-Six Dollars and Forty-Nine Cents,” written and read by Kwame Alexander “Sometimes a Dream Needs a Push” by Walter Dean Myers, read by Dominic Hoffman ABOUT WE NEED DIVERSE BOOKS, read by Ellen Oh "There's plenty of magic in this collection to go around." - Booklist , Starred "A natural for middle school classrooms and libraries, this strong collection should find eager readers" - Kirkus , Starred "Inclusive, authentic, and eminently readable, this collection of short stories is an excellent addition for libraries and classrooms.” - School Library Journal , Starred Read more

Great Minds of Science (Black Lives #1): A Nonfiction Graphic Novel

Author: Tonya Bolden Genre: (Auto)biography/Memoir Illustrator: David Wilkerson

Dive in to an exciting nonfiction graphic novel series about some of the greatest Black lives in history! "Sure to delight middle graders and encourage interest in STEM careers." (School Library Journal) This fun and accessible graphic novel for middle grade readers brings to light the lives of great but lesser-known Black scientists. Great Minds of Science is a kid-friendly introduction to some of the greatest scientists in history—doctors, engineers, mathematicians, and biologists. Each of them faced challenges as they rose to the top of their professions, but they didn’t back down. They kept experimenting and questioning and learning, and they made significant contributions in each of their scientific fields. Black Lives is the new graphic novel series from award-winning author Tonya Bolden and illustrator David Wilkerson that celebrates the lives of Black innovators and legends and helps bring these histories to life. Celebrate the lives and contributions of Black scientists throughout history with the inspiring Great Minds of Science. Read more

I Know The Rules―Children's Book About Respecting and Following the Rules, PreK-Grade 2 (16 pgs) (Kid Citizen)

Author: Marla Conn Genre: Early Readers

Book Features: •16 pages, 8 inches x 8 inches • Ages 4-7, PreK-Grade 2, Guided Reading Level A, Lexile BR60L • Easy-to-read pages with full-color photos • Includes a reading comprehension activity • Photo glossary and high frequency word list included Following The Rules: I Know the Rules, part of the Kid Citizen series, helps emerging preschool―2nd grade readers develop basic literacy skills while learning important social concepts such as following rules in a fun and engaging way. Inspiring Students: Following the rules keeps us safe. What rules should you follow? The 16-page leveled text encourages beginning readers to think about obeying rules and their importance for our safety. Learning Made Fun: More than just an engaging read about why rules are important, this kids book features a reading comprehension activity, photo glossary, and a list of high frequency words for added reading engagement. Leveled Books: Vibrant, full-color photos and leveled text work together to engage children and promote reading comprehension skills while fostering an interest in listening and following rules and directions in young learners. Why Rourke Educational Media: Since 1980, Rourke Publishing Company has specialized in publishing engaging and diverse non-fiction and fiction books for children in a wide range of subjects that support reading success on a level that has no limits. Read more

It's Trevor Noah: Born a Crime: Stories from a South African Childhood (Adapted for Young Readers)

Author: Trevor Noah Genre: (Auto)biography/Memoir

The host of The Daily Show, Trevor Noah, shares his personal story and the injustices he faced while growing up half black, half white in South Africa under and after apartheid in this New York Times bestselling young readers' adaptation of his adult memoir. “A piercing reminder that every mad life--even yours--could end up a masterpiece." --JASON REYNOLDS, New York Times bestselling author We do horrible things to one another because we don’t see the person it affects. . . . We don’t see them as people. Trevor Noah, host of The Daily Show on Comedy Central, shares his remarkable story of growing up in South Africa with a black South African mother and a white European father at a time when it was against the law for a mixed-race child to exist. But he did exist--and from the beginning, the often-misbehaved Trevor used his keen smarts and humor to navigate a harsh life under a racist government. In a country where racism barred blacks from social, educational, and economic opportunity, Trevor surmounted staggering obstacles and created a promising future for himself thanks to his mom’s unwavering love and indomitable will. This honest and poignant memoir adapted from the #1 New York Times bestseller Born a Crime: Stories from a South African Childhood will astound and inspire readers as well as offer a fascinating perspective on South Africa’s tumultuous racial history. BORN A CRIME IS SOON TO BE A MAJOR MOTION PICTURE STARRING OSCAR WINNER LUPITA NYONG'O! Read more

Lisa of Willesden Lane: A True Story of Music and Survival During World War II

Author: Sarah J. Robbins Genre: (Auto)biography/Memoir

An inspiring true story about one girl's escape from the Holocaust to become a concert pianist against all odds, made popular by Mona Golabek's acclaimed theatrical performance and the beloved novel The Children of Willesden Lane -- now available in an early chapter book format. In pre-World War II Vienna, Lisa Jura was a musical prodigy who hoped to become a concert pianist. But when enemy forces threatened the city -- especially its Jewish population -- Lisa's parents were forced to make a difficult decision. They secured passage for only one of their three daughters through the Kindertransport, and chose to send gifted Lisa to London for safety. As she yearned to be reunited with her family where she lived in a home for refugee children on Willesden Lane, Lisa's music became a beacon of hope for all of her peers. A story of the power of music to uplift the human spirit, this compelling tribute has moved and inspired hundreds of thousands of students and adults across the globe. Now is the perfect time to bring this timeless story of hope to even younger audiences as Mona Golabek's mission to transform historical testimony into youth empowerment has driven many requests for shorter, illustrated formats. Both a picture book and chapter book will be available. Read more

Memoirs of a Gay Shah: My Story of Family, Fame, and Becoming a King

Author: Reza Farahan Genre: (Auto)biography/Memoir

He didn't fit the mold―so he made a throne instead. At just four years old, Reza Farahan left Iran for what was supposed to be a quick family trip to Los Angeles. But while he was soaking up the California sun, revolution erupted back home, and Reza's short stay turned into permanent exile. Caught between cultures, identities, and expectations, Reza was an outsider in every sense of the word. He was a half-Muslim, half-Jewish, gay Persian kid just trying to survive 1980s America―a place that saw him as a threat, even when all he wanted was to belong. But with an unapologetic spirit and bold personality, Reza was never destined to simply fit in. He was meant to shine. Reza eventually became the larger-than-life, fan-favorite star of Bravo's Shahs of Sunset , where he served looks, shade, and cultural pride in equal measure. And now Reza is opening up about the journey that took him from closeted teen to reality TV royalty, from hiding his truth to owning every inch of his spotlight. Heartfelt, hilarious, and deeply human, Memoirs of a Gay Shah is the story of how one outcast boy grew into a confident man by reclaiming every part of himself―his culture, his identity, his queerness―and decided to live not just authentically, but extravagantly. Read more

National Geographic Kids Everything Battles: Arm Yourself with Fierce Photos and Fascinating Facts

Author: James Spears Genre: History

National Geographic Kids Everything Battles captures all of the action and valor of the battlefield, as well as the trappings that go with it. Kids will browse eye-popping photographs and illustrations, as they peruse fascinating facts and information about armor, weapons, uniforms, technology, military jets, battleships, military technology, top-secret intelligence and more. Topics include five ultimate battles, the greatest commanders of all time, and an entirely interactive chapter, in which kids can decipher a secret code, develop their own battlefield strategy, and more. Throughout this dynamic book, layers of authoritative information and fun sidebars and facts make historic events accessible and fascinating for young readers. National Geographic supports K-12 educators with ELA Common Core Resources. Visit www.natgeoed.org/commoncore for more information. Read more

Poetry Speaks Who I Am: 100 Poems of Discovery, Inspiration, Independence, and Everything Else for Teens (A Poetry Speaks Experience, Includes CD)

Author: Elise Paschen Genre: Anthology

From the creators of the New York Times bestseller Poetry Speaks to Children , comes this inspirational anthology book of poems for middle grade readers. Poetry Speaks Who I Am is filled with more than 100 remarkable poems for teen boys and girls, making it the perfect addition to any classroom. With poems about who teens are and who they are becoming, they'll find poems that make them laugh, that make them angry, or poems that speak directly to them. Poetry can be life altering. It can be gritty and difficult. It can be hilarious or heart-breaking. And it's meant to be experienced, so we've included a CD on which you'll hear 44 poems, 39 of which are original recordings—you'll only find them here. You'll hear poets both classic and contemporary, well-known and refreshingly new, including: Dana Gioia expresses the hunger of a "Vampire's Serenade" Elizabeth Alexander waits for that second kiss in "Zodiac" Langston Hughes flings his arms wide in "Dream Variations" Marilyn Nelson reads to her class in "How I Discovered Poetry" Paul Muldoon's poem "Sideman," brought loudly to life by the band Rackett And 39 more! Poetry Speaks Who I Am is dynamic, accessible, challenging, classic, edgy, and ultimately...not quite perfect. Just like you. Read more