Books by Theme
Kate Messner: Selected Books
Kate Messner writes both nonfiction and fiction for a range of young readers. She’s explored the natural world as well as various themes in novels and picture books.
All the Answers
Middle school is stressful for everyone, especially for Ava. When she discovers her pencil can answer questions, Ava learns that there’s more to consider than just being right. Magic allows tough topics to be tackled.
Brilliant Fall of Gianna Z
Gianna Zales enjoys lots of things but doing a research project is not one of them. Achieving a balance between school work and family is presented through humorous, recognizable characters in a well-paced plot.
How to Read a Story
Step by step instructions on how the read — and enjoy — a book are presented in lively illustrations and an encouraging narrative. A messy-coifed boy and his dog show the process all the way to THE END, and "if it was a really good story … start all over again."
Marty McGuire
Marty would rather spend recess catching frogs in the pond than playing dress-up with the other girls in third grade. So when her teacher casts Marty as the princess in the class play, Marty’s absolutely, positively sure that there’s been a huge mistake! But after a special lesson in the art of improvisation, Marty comes up with her own plan to improve the play. Maybe a princess in muddy sneakers can live happily ever after, after all! This is the first title in the Marty Maguire chapter book series.
Over and Under the Snow
As the narrator and her father ski through the woods, they compare what goes on over and under the snow cover. Wood block illustrations add rich texture to the words.
Rescue on the Oregon Trail (Ranger in Time series)
Meet Ranger! He's a time-traveling golden retriever who has a nose for trouble ... and always saves the day! This is the first book in the historical fiction chapter book series titled Ranger in Time.
The Seventh Wish
Charlie learns that wishes granted by a magic fish do not work as planned. In fact, Charlie learns that it sometimes takes a lot more to confront the most difficult things, including her older sister’s heroin addiction.
Tree of Wonder: The Many Marvelous Lives of a Rainforest Tree
What and how many creatures make their home in one almendro tree? Count the animals and insects that reside in one single Latin American rainforest tree in lush illustrations and straightforward text.
Up in the Garden and Down in the Dirt
Even when it's too early to plant, there's a lot going on underground. When a grandmother and her grandchild do plant, they tend the garden until it's harvested and even then there's a great deal of activity down in the dirt. Richly colored illustrations show both on top and underneath the garden.
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