Books with author Elizabeth Raum

An educational and entertaining look at what life was like in Colonial America. From moldy food and dirt covered clothes to poisonous pests and extreme weather, American colonists did not have the easiest lives. Items that we take for granted like deodorant and soap were no where to be found. A great way to get kids interested in history and appreciative of our lives today.

America is the greatest democracy in the world . . . isn't it? Author Elizabeth Rusch examines some of the more problematic aspects of our government but, more importantly, offers ways for young people to fix them. The political landscape has never been so tumultuous: issues with the electoral college, gerrymandering, voter suppression, and a lack of representation in the polls and in our leadership have led to Americans of all ages asking, How did we get here? The power to change lies with the citizens of this great country—especially teens! Rather than pointing fingers at people and political parties, You Call This Democracy? looks at flaws in the system—and offers a real way out of the mess we are in. Each chapter breaks down a different problem plaguing American democracy, exploring how it’s undemocratic, offering possible solutions (with examples of real-life teens who have already started working toward them), and suggesting ways to effect change—starting NOW!

Lavinia Warren never let her height—or the lack of it—prevent her from leading a full and adventurous life. Although she never grew more than three feet tall, she became a beloved teacher, a world traveler, an entertainer and the friend of many powerful figures. Lavinia was teaching at a local school when she heard about an opportunity to travel doing shows as a "human curiosity" on a Mississippi River boat. Eventually she met P. T. Barnum and worked at his American Museum. It was there that she met Charles Stratton, known to the world as "Tom Thumb." Their wedding, which took place on February 10, 1863, brought joy to a nation at war. President and Mrs. Abraham Lincoln held a reception for the couple at the White House. During her long life, Lavinia faced several tragedies but always found the strength to go on. Her extraordinary story also provides a unique perspective on one of the most devastating periods in American history: the Civil War and its aftermath. This valuable middle-grade biography includes material on Tom Thumb Weddings, readers' questions, a time line, and other resources.

All of these animals—from the mostly innocent black widow spider to the deadly taipan snake—have one thing in common: they use venom, or poison, for defense. Read about how these poisonous animals survive in their natural habitats and what part they play in the food chains and ecosystems in which they live. The question and answer feature throughout the book promotes reader inquiry, while the list of resources encourages further research and learning. This photo-illustrated book for elementary readers describes the venomous box jellyfish of the Pacific and Indian Oceans. Readers learn how these jellies use venom to kill prey and as a protection against predators. Also explains where they live and what to do when they are encountered.