Eve Bunting’s heartfelt story and David Diaz’s dramatic illustrations create a compelling child’s-eye view of urban violence. A young boy and his mother are forced to flee their apartment during a night of rioting in Los Angeles. Fires and looting force neighbors—who have always avoided one another—to come together in the face of danger and concern for their missing pets. David Diaz was awarded the Caldecott Medal for his bold acrylic paint and photo-collage illustrations.
Henry and Mudge and Mrs. Hopper’s House (Henry and Mudge #22)
A Special Valentine’s Day for Henry and Mudge
Henry’s mother and father are going to a Valentine’s Day Sweetheart Dance, and Henry and Mudge are staying with Mrs. Hopper across the street. Henry’s never been in Mrs. Hopper’s scary, old stone house with its droopy trees and dark windows and gargoyle on the door. But inside, Henry discovers a houseful of surprises — a grand piano, a room full of costumes, and eleven cats for Mudge to play with!
Doing My Part (Home-Front Heroes)
Until World War II came along, fourteen-year-old Helen Marshall’s biggest problem had been her height. Few men in Hayden’s Valley, Illinois are as tall as Helen. But when Helen’s mother is hurt and can’t work and her favorite cousin ships off to fight, Helen must find a way to support both her family and her country. Along with her best friend, Janie, she takes a summer job at a war factory and discovers that not everyone welcomes her enthusiasm. Determined to prove she can handle her new responsibilities, Helen must confront a lazy boss, two older women who try to slow down her work, and townspeople who gang up on one of their own. But when she answers the eerie cries of her mysterious German neighbor, Mrs. Osthoff, Helen learns the true sacrifice of war. And when she keeps a secret for a friend, she realizes that grown-up decisions sometimes have life-or-death consequences.
Crazy Christmas Angel Mystery (Cul-de-sac Kids #3)
It’s almost Christmas, and Eric Hagel is spying on the new neighbor. What’s going on next door”Why is the house always flickering with candlelight? And what about the eerie flute music every morning at 6:00″When Mr. Tressler puts up a Christmas tree, Eric’s eyes nearly pop out. The angel at the top comes to life! Soon, hundreds of angels are flying in the old man’s house.Can Eric and the Cul-de-sac Kids solve the mystery? And who will be brave enough to take a Christmas gift to the weird house at the end of Blossom Hill Lane?