Wendell Minor

Before leaving for Ford’s Theater, Abraham Lincoln reflects on his life — his accomplishments and disappointments. Realistic illustrations reflect the serious tone of this unusual glimpse of the 16th President.

Luke and his father travel by buggy to pay respects to the train carrying the assassinated Abraham Lincoln from Washington, D.C., to Springfield, Illinois. Evocative text and illustration are well-researched to capture the period from a child’s point of view.

In an afterword, the author asks if an artist can be a hero or an explorer. The answer is sure to be a resounding ‘yes’ after examining this thoughtful, attractive and informative overview of artist Edward Hopper and his work. Several Hopper paintings, selected quotes, additional resources and a note from the illustrator are included.

As an Indian storyteller guides a boat of children down the sea of grass, he reveals the story of the landscape’s formation of what was to become a subtropical national park home to many unique animals. This carefully crafted and handsomely illustrated cautionary tale urges conservation, as the future of the Everglades depends on it.

Who is Henry David Thoreau? What would it be like to spend a day with him? A contemporary boy depicted in blue jeans and a t-shirt knocks at his door and meets the 19th century Thoreau, as the imaginative text fills in what it might have been like. Expressive illustrations, quotes, and gentle interpretations bring Thoreau and his world to light for younger readers.

Apollo 11 astronaut Buzz Aldrin takes the reader on a journey through centuries of air and space aviation, from Isaac Newton to exploring Mars to futuristic space tours. Fascinating details and a timeline are embedded throughout.

Aldrin relates how he, the second man to walk on the Moon, became interested in aeronautics and flying. The result is a fascinating look at his personal history as well as the history of flight accompanied by precise but equally engaging illustrations.

The train’s illustrious past combines with realistic illustrations to successfully present a reverent homage and history. The rhyming text is from an original song. Additional resources to learn more about trains and their history concludes this handsome book.

“Letters hold magic…they open worlds.” Playful and rich, powerful, giggling, bewitching words are all presented in different typefaces, playfully illustrated to evoke their command and enchantment. Sure to intrigue, try reading this aloud for full, dynamic effect. You’ll never look at the alphabet in quite the same way!