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By 1909, Louis Bleriot’s persistence had paid off: this Frenchman became the first aviator to fly across the English Channel in an “air machine.” This Caldecott Medal winner is a quiet account of one man’s perseverance and passion.

In this coming-of-age story, the children of the longhouse are 11-year-old Ohkwa’ri and Itsi:tsia. Twin brother and sister, they live in a Mohawk town in the traditional homelands of what is now eastern New York State in 1491. Reflecting the balance between male and female roles in Iroquois society, the book’s chapters alternate between the events and perspectives of Ohkwa’ri and Itsi:tsia, who very definitely see things differently. Bruchac seamlessly incorporates an impressive amount of information about pre-contact Mohawk culture, society, and beliefs, and tells a good story as well. — Oyate

A cat befriends a monk and brings good fortune to his rundown temple in this handsomely illustrated retelling narrated by Tama, the feline hero.

The narrator describes her family’s immigration from Cuba to New York City based on her own family’s story and illustrated by her husband for a striking memoir.

White House gardens started with John Adams in 1800 and continue with Michelle Obama. History and recipes for healthy food are presented in this attractive volume.

Duke Ellington’s collaboration with a classically trained colleague resulting in unique rendition of the ‘Nutcracker Suite’ comes to life in jazzy text and illustrations; a CD is included.

The western U.S. was indeed wild in the 19th century. Brief sketches of strong, brave but little known women who were part of it are glimpsed in fascinating book

Joe Louis’ boxing match against Max Schmeling in 1938 reverberated in the U.S. and through the world. Its drama is presented in rhythmic text and stunning illustrations.

For young Samuel Russell, the summer of 1777 is a time of fear. The British Army is approaching, and the Indians in the area seem ready to attack. To Stands Straight, a young Abenaki Indian scouting for King George, Americans are dangerous enemies who threaten his family and home. When Stands Straight’s party enters the Quaker Meetinghouse where Samuel worships, the two boys share an encounter that neither will ever forget. Told in alternating viewpoints, this chapter book is based on a true story.

Shi-shi-etko has just four days until she will have to leave her family and everything she knows to attend one of Canada’s Indian residential schools. She spends her last precious days at home treasuring and appreciating the beauty of her world — the dancing sunlight, the tall grass, each shiny rock, the tadpoles in the creek, her grandfather’s paddle song. LaFave’s richly hued illustrations complement Campbell’s gently moving and poetic account of a child who finds solace around her, even though she is on the verge of great loss.

For thousands of years, massive herds of buffalo roamed across much of North America, but by the 1870s, fewer than fifteen hundred animals remained. With reverent care, Walking Coyote and his family endeavored to bring back the buffalo herds, one magnificent creature at a time. Here is the inspiring story of the first efforts to save the buffalo, an animal sacred to Native Americans and a powerful symbol of the American West.

Product Description: Joseph Bruchac tells the compelling story of how a young boy named Curly seeks a vision in the hope of saving his people — and grows into the brave and fierce warrior Crazy Horse. Sioux artist S. D. Nelson’s paintings, in the traditional ledger style of the Plains Indians, evokes the drama and the tragedy of this important American figure.

Like most Lakota Sioux boys, Slow yearns for the special vision or manly deed that will inspire his permanent, adult name. Encouraged by splendid stories of his father’s bravery, wisdom and leadership, Slow focuses his energy on becoming a warrior. Friends gradually begin to associate his name with careful deliberation. When the moment of his manhood arrives, Slow rides heroically against Crow warriors, earning the name Tatan’ka Iyota’ke (translated, on the final page, as Sitting Bull). — Publishers Weekly

A considerable amount of information is packed into this pictorial presentation of the reenactment of the first Thanksgiving, held at Plimoth Plantation museum in October, 2000. Five chapters give background on the Wampanoag people, colonization, Indian diplomacy, the harvest of 1621, and the evolution of the Thanksgiving story. — School Library Journal

In the mid-19th century, the carpenter who found a nugget of gold in a river near Sutter’s mill had no idea that this would begin a rush to the West. Authentic voices from journals and other original sources are seamlessly incorporated in the generously illustrated, engaging, and informative book.

Jane watched animals. Her ability to quietly observe allowed her to learn about animals up close, from childhood to her adult life as a respected scientist watching chimpanzees in the wild. Brief text and textured illustrations chronicle Goodall’s work which “opened a window for us to the world of chimpanzees.”

Walter was a shy child and son of a wealthy banker, who found companionship in myriad exotic animals. This unique look at a how a child’s loneliness and passion created a museum and contributed to the study of wildlife is told in energetic illustrations and accessible language.

Neftali always loved nature and words. This fondness allowed Neftali — better known as Pablo Neruda — to create poetry in a “voice [that] was heard across nations and ocean.” Rich language and lush illustrations that incorporate words in Spanish and English are sure to enthuse young writers while introducing this Nobel-winning poet.

Dorothy became a librarian to share her love of books and reading. How she started a library service first on a bookmobile and later inspired a building — touching many lives in her North Caroline town — is based a real person that the author knew. Gentle language and soft illustration present Miss Dorothy’s story and the impact of one individual.

George Washington Carver was always curious and grew into a recognized scientist in spite of the challenges of the time in which he lived. His life and accomplishments become accessible to younger children through the voice of a tree planted by young George, augmented by child-like full color illustrations.

Emma Lazarus, a prolific and skilled poet, only once wrote a poem on request. It is the one for which she is best known: the poem is mounted on the base of the Statue of Liberty. Emma’s story is sprinkled with her writing, complemented by expressive illustrations.

A dog saved the people of Nome, Alaska in 1925 when a sled team was the only way to fetch essential diphtheria serum during a blizzard. Balto led that team, but his story continues in this engagingly told and illustrated book when the brave canine is in turn helped by America’s children.

With war approaching, Baba (the author’s father) builds a sturdy home for his family in Shanghai. The family, their activities, and house unfold in stunning, varied art and lyrical language in an expansive format to reveal a glimpse of an historical time through the lens of one family.

Ida Lewis grew up on the sea as she and her parents kept the Lime Rock Lighthouse in Rhode Island. The story of how Ida saved numerous seafarers in the period before modern technology is revealed in dramatic illustration and readable text — ideal for sharing aloud.