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Books at Guided Reading Level Y

  • The Arctic Incident

    Eoin Colfer

    Paperback (Disney-Hyperion, Oct. 2, 2018)
    From New York Times best-selling author, Eoin Colfer comes his second book in the Artemis Fowl series about a teenage criminal mastermind and his siege against dangerous, tech-savvy fairies. The internationally best-selling Artemis Fowl series inspired the movie, Artemis Fowl, now streaming on Disney+. Artemis Fowl is at boarding school in Iceland when he receives an urgent video email from Russia. It's a plea from his father, who has been kidnapped by the Russian mafia. As Artemis rushes to his rescue, he is stopped by Captain Holly Short. This time, instead of battling the fairies, he's going to have to join forces with them if he wants to save one of the few people he loves."The world that Colfer creates is as vivid and fantastical as any shire, gotham, or galaxy far, far away in recent memory." - Entertainment Weekly
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  • The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate

    Jacqueline Kelly

    Paperback (Square Fish, Jan. 4, 2011)
    In this witty historical fiction middle grade novel set at the turn of the century, an 11-year-old girl explores the natural world, learns about science and animals, and grows up. A Newbery Honor Book.“The most delightful historical novel for tweens in many, many years. . . . Callie's struggles to find a place in the world where she'll be encouraged in the gawky joys of intellectual curiosity are fresh, funny, and poignant today.” ―The New YorkerCalpurnia Virginia Tate is eleven years old in 1899 when she wonders why the yellow grasshoppers in her Texas backyard are so much bigger than the green ones. With a little help from her notoriously cantankerous grandfather, an avid naturalist, she figures out that the green grasshoppers are easier to see against the yellow grass, so they are eaten before they can get any larger. As Callie explores the natural world around her, she develops a close relationship with her grandfather, navigates the dangers of living with six brothers, and comes up against just what it means to be a girl at the turn of the century. Author Jacqueline Kelly deftly brings Callie and her family to life, capturing a year of growing up with unique sensitivity and a wry wit.The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate by Jacqueline Kelly was a 2010 Newbery Honor Book and the winner of the 2010 Bank Street - Josette Frank Award. This title has Common Core connections. This is perfect for young readers who like historical fiction, STEM topics, animal stories, and feminist middle grade novels.Don't miss the sequel!The Curious World of Calpurnia TateTo follow Calpurnia Tate on more adventures, read the Calpurnia Tate, Girl Vet chapter book series:Skunked! Counting SheepWho Gives a Hoot?A Prickly ProblemPraise for The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate:“The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate is the most delightful historical novel for tweens in many, many years. . . . Callie's struggles to find a place in the world where she'll be encouraged in the gawky joys of intellectual curiosity are fresh, funny, and poignant today.” ―The New Yorker, "Book Bench" section“In her debut novel, Jacqueline Kelly brings to vivid life a boisterous small-town family at the dawn of a new century. And she especially shines in her depiction of the natural world that so intrigues Callie. . . . Readers will want to crank up the A.C. before cracking the cover, though. That first chapter packs a lot of summer heat.” ―The Washington Post“Each chapter of this winning . . . novel opens with a quotation from ‘On the Origin of Species'--a forbidden book that her own grandfather turns out to have hidden away. Together they study Darwin's masterpiece, leading to a revolution in Callie's ideas of what she might accomplish on her own.” ―New York Times Book Review“Callie's transformation into an adult and her unexpected bravery make for an exciting and enjoyable read. Kelly's rich images and setting, believable relationships and a touch of magic take this story far.” ―Publishers Weekly, starred review“Interwoven with the scientific theme are threads of daily life in a large family--the bonds with siblings, the conversations overheard, the unspoken understandings and misunderstandings--all told with wry humor and a sharp eye for details that bring the characters and the setting to life. The eye-catching jacket art, which silhouettes Callie and images from nature against a yellow background, is true to the period and the story. Many readers will hope for a sequel to this engaging, satisfying first novel.” ―Booklist, Starred Review“Readers will finish this witty, deftly crafted debut novel rooting for "Callie Vee" and wishing they knew what kind of adult she would become.” ―Kirkus, Starred Review“A charming and inventive story of a child struggling to find her identity at the turn of the 20th century. . . . there's no uncertainty over the achievement of Kelly's debut novel.” ―School Library Journal, Starred Review“Narrator Calpurnia's voice is fresh and convincing, and Granddaddy is that favorite relative most readers would love to claim as their own. Historical fiction fans are in for a treat.” ―The Bulletin“Kelly, without anachronism, has created a memorable, warm, spirited young woman who's refreshingly ahead of her time.” ―The Horn Book Review“That rare book that will appeal to child and adult alike.” ―Austin American-Statesman“Introduces a turn-of-the-20th-century heroine for modern times.” ―Shelf Awareness
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  • When the Whales Walked: And Other Incredible Evolutionary Journeys

    Dougal Dixon, Hannah Bailey

    Hardcover (words & pictures, Oct. 16, 2018)
    A 2019 Outstanding Science Trade Book for Students: K–12 (National Science Teachers Association and the Children's Book Council). From the moment life crawled out of the oceans and onto land, to when our primate ancestors climbed down from the trees, the history of Planet Earth is filled with incredible stories. This beautifully illustrated guide explores some of the most exciting and incredible events in evolution, through 13 case studies. Step back in time and discover a world where whales once walked, crocodiles were warm-blooded, and snakes had legs! Meet terrifying giant birds, and tiny elephants living on islands in this fascinating creature guide like no other. Learn how whales once walked on four legs before taking to the oceans; how dinosaurs evolved into birds; and how the first cats were small and lived in trees. Featuring a stunning mix of annotated illustrations, illustrated scenes, and family trees, evolution is explained here in a captivating and novel style that will make children look at animals in a whole new way.
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  • The Travel Book: A journey through every country in the world

    Lonely Planet Kids

    Hardcover (Lonely Planet, Oct. 1, 2015)
    Take a world tour through 200 countries with this brand new edition of the bestselling kids' version of Lonely Planet's popular The Travel Book, loaded with thousands of amazing facts on wildlife, how people live, sports, hideous and mouthwatering food, festivals and a wide range of other quirky insights on every page. Every single country gets its own dedicated page, and a mix of photography and beautiful illustrations brings each land to life. Perfect for keeping explorers aged 8 years and up entertained on the road. Authors: Lonely Planet Kids About Lonely Planet Kids: From the world's leading travel publisher comes Lonely Planet Kids, a children's imprint that brings the world to life for young explorers everywhere. We're kick-starting the travel bug and showing kids just how amazing our planet is. Our mission is to inspire and delight curious kids, showing them the rich diversity of people, places and cultures that surrounds us. We pledge to share our enthusiasm and continual fascination for what it is that makes the world we live in the magnificent place it is. A big adventure awaits! Come explore. Award-winning children's titles from Lonely Planet include The Amazing World Atlas (Independent Publisher Award, Gold for Juvenile Multicultural Non-fiction, 2015), How to Be a Space Explorer (Independent Publisher Award, Silver for Juvenile Non-fiction, 2015), Not For Parents The Travel Book, Not For Parents Paris, Not For Parents London, Not For Parents New York City, and Not For Parents Rome (all Parent Tested Parent Approved winners, 2012). Lonely Planet guides have won the TripAdvisor Traveler's Choice Award in 2012, 2013, 2014, and 2015.
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  • The Devil's Arithmetic

    Jane Yolen

    Paperback (Puffin Books, April 12, 2004)
    30th Anniversary edition with a new introduction from the author Hannah is tired of holiday gatherings−all her family ever talks about is the past. In fact, it seems to her that's what they do every Jewish holiday. But this year's Passover Seder will be different−Hannah will be mysteriously transported into the past . . . and only she knows the unspeakable horrors that await.Winner of the National Jewish Book Award"A triumphantly moving book." --Kirkus Reviews, starred review
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  • Race Forever/Escape/Lost on the Amazon/Prisoner of the Ant People/Trouble on Planet Earth/War with the Evil Power Master

    R. A. Montgomery

    Paperback (Chooseco, Sept. 30, 2011)
    This 6-book boxed set of interactive, children's classics includes 6 books from the Choose Your Own Adventure series: Race Forever * Escape * Lost on the Amazon * Prisoner of the Ant People * Trouble on Planet Earth * War With the Evil Power Master.Widely commended for its appeal to reluctant readers, Choose Your Own Adventure is the 4th bestselling book series for children of all time.These books are different from other books you've read before. There are dangers, choices, adventures, and consequences ahead of you, and only YOU can decide what happens next. BEWARE...the wrong decision could end in disaster--even death. But don't despair, at any time YOU can go back to make another choice and change the path of your story.This action-packed boxed set takes YOU on over one hundred adventures: stop the scary Evil Power Master from destroying all the planets, zoom through the rocky African countryside on a high-speed race course, and save the rest of the elite research team from the creepy-crawly Ant People! At the bottom of every page, YOU must make a choice:If you choose to explore the nuclear waste problem first, turn to page 41.If you decide to head for the mysterious island, turn to page 40.This 6-book boxed set contains 6 bestselling books for readers ages 9-12 in a bright gift box:Race Forever by R. A. Montgomery takes YOU on a high-speed, high-stakes race car adventure through the rugged African countryside. Speed through the challenging racecourse over grasslands and mountains, putting your stamina and strategy to the test, encountering both crocodiles and crooks along the way!Escape by R. A. Montgomery takes YOU on an adventure to an alternate, near-distant dystopian universe in the future. Take on a secret spy mission to Dorado, the repressive police state that now occupies New Mexico, Arizona, and Texas. Escape is a companion book to Beyond Escape!Lost on the Amazon by R. A. Montgomery takes YOU on an adventure to the magical Amazon River basin, home to the greatest biodiversity on planet Earth. Trek through the jungle and help the South & Central American forest people fight a tropical disease epidemic, while confronting evil spirits at every turn!Prisoner of the Ant People by R. A. Montgomery takes YOU on an otherworldly adventure as you fight off the feared Ant People, who have recently joined forces with the Evil Power Master. Battle the infamous villain, the Evil Power Master, as part of the Zondo Quest Group. Prisoner of the Ant People is a companion book to War With the Evil Power Master.Trouble on Planet Earth by R. A. Montgomery takes YOU on an ecological, crime-solving adventure as you and your magical brother try to figure out what is draining Earth's oil reserves. Challenge dangerous weather goons, meet mysterious beings from beyond, and save the world from imminent doom!War with the Evil Power Master by R. A. Montgomery takes YOU on an intergalactic space adventure to defeat the Evil Power Master once and for all! Face the most evil villain that's ever lived, explore the greater galaxy, and bravely lead the Lacoonian System Rapid Force team. War With The Evil Power Master is a companion book to Prisoner of the Ant People.
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  • Tight

    Torrey Maldonado

    Paperback (Puffin Books, Aug. 27, 2019)
    * "Maldonado excels at depicting realistic and authentic interactions between middle school boys."--School Library Journal (starred review)A Washington Post Best Children's Book of 2018!Tight: Lately Bryan's been feeling it in all kinds of ways. He knows what's tight for him in a good way--reading comics, drawing superheroes, and hanging out with no drama. But drama's hard to escape where he's from, and that gets him wound up tight.And now Bryan's new friend Mike is challenging him to have fun in ways that are crazy risky. At first, it's a rush following Mike, hopping turnstiles, subway surfing, and getting into all kinds of trouble. But Bryan never feels right acting wrong. So which way will he go when he understands that drama is so not his style? Fortunately his favorite comic heroes shed light on his dilemma, reminding him that he has power--the power to choose his friends and to stand up for what he believes is right . . .Torrey Maldonado delivers a fast-paced, insightful, dynamic story. Readers will connect with Bryan's journey as he navigates a tough world with a heartfelt desire for a different life.
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  • Our Country's Presidents: A Complete Encyclopedia of the U.S. Presidency

    Ann Bausum

    Hardcover (National Geographic Children's Books, Jan. 10, 2017)
    National Geographic presents the 43 individuals who have led the U.S., plus America's newest commander-in-chief, in this up-to-date, authoritative, and lavishly illustrated family, school, and library reference. It features comprehensive profiles of the 43 former presidents along with timelines and descriptions of crucial events during their terms. Information about the 2016 president-elect is also included. Thematic spreads cover a variety of topics from the history of voting rights to writing a presidential letter. Full-page portraits, famous quotes, and fascinating facts help kids get to know each leader. This new volume is a fascinating read and excellent reference for students and kids of all ages.
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  • Star vs. the Forces of Evil The Magic Book of Spells

    Daron Nefcy, Dominic Bisignano, Amber Benson, Devin Taylor, Disney Storybook Art Team

    Hardcover (Disney Press, Sept. 11, 2018)
    Ever wondered what's inside The Magic Book of Spells? It contains every spell you've ever seen on the show, plus the history of Mewni, as told by thirteen queens. Each chapter is full of secrets, magic, and notes from Star Butterfly!This fun-packed, full-color jacketed hardcover version of The Magic Book of Spells will give fans of Star Vs the Forces of Evil all the inside information. . . and a chance to meet four never-seen-before queens.Plus, the book jacket doubles as an exclusive Mewberty Wings tarot card poster!
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  • That Was Then, This Is Now

    S. E. Hinton

    Mass Market Paperback (Puffin Books, April 1, 1998)
    Another classic from the author of the internationally bestselling The OutsidersContinue celebrating 50 years of The Outsiders by reading this companion novel. That Was Then, This is Now is S. E. Hinton's moving portrait of the bond between best friends Bryon and Mark and the tensions that develop between them as they begin to grow up and grow apart. "A mature, disciplined novel which excites a response in the reader . . . Hard to forget."—The New York Times
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  • The Dragons of Blueland

    Ruth Stiles Gannett

    Paperback (Yearling, March 13, 2007)
    In this third and final installment of the classic My Father's Dragon trilogy, Boris, the baby dragon, is excited to be heading home to Blueland and looks forward to reuniting with his family.
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  • Guadalupe: First Words - Primeras Palabras

    Patty Rodriguez, Ariana Stein, Citlali Reyes

    Board book (Lil' Libros, Jan. 2, 2018)
    A Lil' LIbros Bilingual Picture Book Inspired by Our Lady of Guadalupe, this book will introduce children to her story through pictures and their first English and Spanish words. Travel back to the 15th century when the Virgin of Guadalupe once appeared before Juan Diego. Your child will learn first words such as sandalias (sandals), luz (light), and jardin (garden). Unable to find bilingual first concept books she could enjoy reading to her baby, Patty Rodriguez came up with the idea behind Lil' Libros. Patty and her work have been featured in the Los Angeles Times, Rolling Stone, CNN Latino, Latina Magazine, Cosmopolitan, People En Espanol, Cosmo Latina, and American Latino TV, to name a few. She is currently Sr. Producer for On Air With Ryan Seacrest|iHeartMedia, jewelry designer for MALA by Patty Rodriguez, and creator of Manolos And Tacos. Ariana Stein, a graduate from California State University, Dominguez Hills, has a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration. Ariana spent the first eight years of her professional career in the corporate world. Her life changed with the birth of her baby boy. She immediately realized that bilingualism played a very important role in his future, as well as the future of other children.
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