Nonfiction

Grades 3-6

Get Into Art: Animals - Susie Brooks

Introduces children to the world of art while encouraging budding artists to develop their own artistic abilities. Accomplished artists, along with some of their famous pieces and techniques are presented, then followed up with an art project reminiscent of each artist's work or genre. Perfect for active young artists of all abilities.

 

Beyond the Solar System: Exploring Galaxies, Black Holes, Alien Planets, and More: A History with 21 Activities - Mary Kay Carson

Tracing the evolution of humankind's pursuit of astronomical knowledge, this resource looks deep into the furthest reaches of space. Children will follow along as the realization that the Earth is not at the center of the universe leads all the way up to recent telescopic proof of planets orbiting stars outside the solar system. In addition to its engaging history, this book contains 21 hands-on projects to further explore the subjects discussed. Readers will build a three-dimensional representation of the constellation Orion.

Revolutionary Friends: General George Washington and the Marquis de Lafayette
- Selene Castrovilla
An account of the friendship between the first American president when he was an officer in the Continental Army and the young Marquis de Lafayette describes how the latter came to America to offer his services before earning a military position and Washington's admiration.

Locomotive - Brian Floca
Learn what it was like to travel on the transcontinental railroad in the 1860s.





Grades 5-8
Randolph Caldecott: The Man Who Could Not Stop Drawing - Leonard S. Marcus
Describes the life and work of English illustrator Randolph Caldecott and his influence on the modern picture book.

Grades 9-12
Thrice Told Tales: Three Mice Full of Writing Advice - Catherine Lewis
Uses the "Three Blind Mice" nursery rhyme to illustrate key elements of writing and literature, including plot, mechanics, foreshadowing, point of view, character, style, and dialogue.