Books with author Kristen Rajczak

Though just 200 words, the Mayflower Compact had a profound impact on the lives of a small group of settlers and the colony they would establish. This historic document kept a struggling group of Pilgrims together during a difficult time in their journey from England to the founding of Plymouth in 1620. Readers will learn what this document said, why it's considered to be so important, and about questions surrounding its intent. Images of the events throughout the book help illustrate and highlight the trials and triumphs of the Pilgrims.

From those at the Rockefeller Center to ones that might perch at the top of a home Christmas tree, angels are a common symbol of the Christmas season. This symbol's link to the holiday likely began with the Bible story of the Nativity, but today, angel figures' beauty and elegance make them a lovely addition to many households' Christmas decorations. Readers will learn why and how angels became part of the Christmas season. Written especially for beginning readers, it includes full-color photographs and historical images of angel decorations used throughout Christmas history.†

There are so many different kinds of fruit in the world, its hard to choose a favorite. Apples, oranges, and bananas are the fruits most commonly eaten in the United States, but even more exotic varieties like mangoes and star fruit are easily found in many grocery stores. Through colorful photographs and mouthwatering recipes, readers will be reintroduced to some of the tastiestand healthiestfruits. Step-by-step instructions will guide readers through each recipe, while fun fact boxes and main content highlight the health benefits and usefulness of strawberries, lemons, and more.

In the United States, about 2 million people are allergic to bee stings. If not treated properly and promptly, serious reactions can be life threatening. Readers learn what to do if they or a friend are stung by a bee and have a normal reaction, as well as what to look for if an allergic reaction is occurring. The basics of allergies are clearly explained through age-appropriate science content, and the seriousness of these conditions is emphasized. Full-color photographs of normal and allergic reactions to bee stings prepare readers further for any situation they may face.

Today, science offers explanations of things people once found freaky, and the human body is no exception. Everything our body does has a purpose, from our seemingly gross bodily fluids to the weird and wild ways we stay healthy. Readers take a journey through the human body, learning why (almost) every organ has a purpose and how the old adage What doesnt kill you makes you stronger is actually true in some ways. From the bacteria that fills our bodies to babies lack of kneecaps when theyre born, no stone is left unturned in this freakish compilation of all things anatomical. Vivid color images and fascinating fun facts and sidebars offer even more bodily knowledge.

The culture of the Inca Empire is defined by fascinating architecture, religion, farming, and technology, as well as a society that saw each citizen assigned to a specific task. This volume explores these fundamental social studies concepts, which complements classroom learning. Readers will learn about the Inca peoples contributions to their society, including the Quipu, clothing, festivals, and societal roles. Accessible language and thought-provoking images and primary sources help engage readers.

What animal has a jellylike body, long tentacles, and the power to stop a person’s heart? It’s the jellyfish, and these adaptations have helped it survived over hundreds of millions of years. Readers will learn all about these living fossils—from their life cycle to their habitats—and how those traits and everything in between have changed little over the course of time. Age-appropriate text and bright images of fossils and living jellyfish give readers a sense of this animal’s ancientness. A glossary, index, and websites provide opportunities for additional learning.

Many Christmas symbols are very old and date to before there even was a Christmas! Elves, however, were likely introduced to the mythology of Santa Claus in the 1820s with the famous poem, "The Night Before Christmas." In this book, beginning readers trace these first mentions of elves to the modern-day "Elf on a Shelf" craze. Full-color photographs and historical illustrations complement the accessible content and bring the history of Christmas elves to children who may be waiting to see if their elf has moved in the night.

Andrew Carnegie may be one of the most famous names in American history, and his story is nothing short of an inspiration. An immigrant born in Scotland, Carnegie immigrated to the U.S. and became one of the richest industrialists of his day. This biographical text explores Carnegies fascinating life and his contributions to the steel industry. Through age-appropriate language and historical photos, readers learn how Carnegies entrepreneurial spirit and philanthropic nature helped shaped nineteenth-century American industry and the spirit that came to define it. A timeline and primary sources complete this comprehensive learning experience.

Skateboarding as we know it today emerged as a popular sport in 195s’ California, but in the time since the first wheeled boards “surfed” the streets, the sport has evolved and reached sporting extremes. In this high-interest title, fans of skateboarding and other extreme sports will read the captivating backstory behind one of the most popular street sports today, with profiles of the key figures on wheels and the tricks that they invented. Safety and gear are covered, as is the development of organizations and leagues to monitor the sport and boost its popularity.