Books with author Rita Santos

LeBron James is unquestionably one of the biggest names in basketball history, but it's his actions off the court that make him a true superstar. In this captivating biography, readers learn how James uses his position as a respected athlete to encourage and uplift others. The inspiring text describes how young LeBron overcame a difficult childhood, achieved unimaginable success, and gave back to his community by starting a school to help kids like him. Colorful photographs, fun facts, and direct quotations accompany this revealing look at his life and accomplishments on and off the court.

Gerrymandering, the manipulation of boundaries in order to benefit one group or political party, is not new, but thanks to technology it is more widespread. Questions about the constitutionality of gerrymandering have gone all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court. This provocative volume explores the practice of partisan redistricting, how it affects elections and policy, whether it is unconstitutional, and above all what must be done to ensure that control of the government rests in the hands of the people.

At fourteen years old, Dwayne Johnson began training for the day when he would become the first third-generation wrestler in the World Wrestling Federation. But the wrestling ring wasn't enough for him. In this revealing biography, readers learn how Johnson used his strong work ethic to go beyond wrestling and find great success in Hollywood. Accompanied by full-color photographs and fun facts, the engaging text follows Johnson's life and achievements from the gym to the red carpet. Direct quotations from the Rock himself inspire readers to discover and follow their own dreams.

At fourteen years old, Dwayne Johnson began training for the day when he would become the first third-generation wrestler in the World Wrestling Federation. But the wrestling ring wasn't enough for him. In this revealing biography, readers learn how Johnson used his strong work ethic to go beyond wrestling and find great success in Hollywood. Accompanied by full-color photographs and fun facts, the engaging text follows Johnson's life and achievements from the gym to the red carpet. Direct quotations from the Rock himself inspire readers to discover and follow their own dreams.

The prejudice of the U.S. government and medical community allowed a disease that could have been contained to spread into a global pandemic. Readers will follow this devastating disease from its recently refuted origins in gay communities all the way to the current medical developments. This book will also describe how a powerful LGBTQ+ activist movement diverted its attention to the wreckage caused by the HIV and AIDS crisis of the 1980s and 90s. The history of disease is one that commonly receives too little attention in curricula, yet it has a huge impact on the development of our society.

Hailee Steinfeld was just thirteen years old when she was cast as the tough as nails Mattie Ross in the movie True Grit. Her breakout performance was so impressive that she became one of the youngest actresses to be nominated for an Academy Award. Conquering Hollywood wasn't enough for this young artist, and in 2015 she released her first single "Love Myself," which went platinum. Readers will learn how the young artist balances her acting and singing careers through easy-to-follow text accompanied by stunning full-color photographs, as well as direct quotes from Steinfeld herself.

Broadway star turned R&B singer, Ariana Grande was just eight years old when she set her sights on the stage. More than just a talented singer, Ariana is an astute businesswoman who knew what she had to do to make her creative dreams come true. What really makes this pop star stand out is her dedication to philanthropy. After the tragedy in Manchester, she helped raise over 13 million dollars for the victims with her One Love Manchester Benefit concert. Young readers will learn more about the singer's life and careers through easy-to-follow text accompanied by dynamic full-color photographs, as well as direct quotes from Grande herself.

The prejudice of the U.S. government and medical community allowed a disease that could have been contained to spread into a global pandemic. Readers will follow this devastating disease from its recently refuted origins in gay communities all the way to the current medical developments. This book will also describe how a powerful LGBTQ+ activist movement diverted its attention to the wreckage caused by the HIV and AIDS crisis of the 1980s and 90s. The history of disease is one that commonly receives too little attention in curricula, yet it has a huge impact on the development of our society.

Raised just a few blocks from Broadway, Alicia Keys began playing classical piano when she was seven years old. At twenty-two, she became famous for combining the music of her city and her classical training into a sound all her own. In this compelling biography, readers learn about the inspiring life and work of Keys, a fifteen-time Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter, and producer. Keys is also an actress, author, and global activist in the fight against HIV/AIDS. Accessible text is accompanied by compelling full-color photographs, as well as direct quotes from Keys herself.

Broadway star turned R&B singer, Ariana Grande was just eight years old when she set her sights on the stage. More than just a talented singer, Ariana is an astute businesswoman who knew what she had to do to make her creative dreams come true. What really makes this pop star stand out is her dedication to philanthropy. After the tragedy in Manchester, she helped raise over 13 million dollars for the victims with her One Love Manchester Benefit concert. Young readers will learn more about the singer's life and careers through easy-to-follow text accompanied by dynamic full-color photographs, as well as direct quotes from Grande herself.

In a time of divisive headlines, it's vital for students to learn the many ways diversity makes the world a better place. With this volume, students will be encouraged to celebrate the many different cultures of the globe. They will learn to understand concepts like intersectionality and discrimination, and how these concepts affect them and their friends. Young readers will learn why it is important to respect everyone no matter how different they may seem. The narrative simplifies complex ideas, making them accessible to students and showing them that when we celebrate our differences, the world becomes a friendlier place.