Gerald Ruhoy’s It’s Just a Penny is an informational text about American money. To begin, the reader is introduced to each type of coin and paper money, along with their values, various names, and the faces that can be found on them. The author then shows conversions for each bill of paper money to coins and smaller bills. The information is conveyed through stick figures and speech bubbles, as well as bullet points.
Sam, Sara and the Red Ball is a novel written for children between the ages of 8 and 12. Jenifer Ratliff details the day-to-day events of two rescue pets; Sam, the bunny, and Sarah, the cat, who live with their owner, Meg. When Meg learns she will be relocating for work, Sam and Sara take advantage of exploring the empty rooms and pantry while Meg packs. There is something mysterious in the back corner of the pantry that captures the attention of the pets.
When Timmy, Jade, and Mateo take a trip to their magic spot, they embark on a nautical adventure across the seven seas. Jade quickly discovers a mysterious treasure chest loaded with jewels and a tattered treasure map signed by Owen Edward Fastbottom. When a cannon booms nearby, the children realize they are being followed by a pirate and his crew. Not just any pirate, but the dreaded pirate captain, who claims the treasure belongs to him!
Historian Ruth Behar, inspired by her ancestors, tells the stories of four Sephardic Jewish girls in three vastly different time periods and locations. As the story unfolds, the reader sees the intergenerational connections among these four distinct stories. Benvenida, along with her family, is facing expulsion during the Spanish Inquisition from the only home she has ever known. She leads the reader out of Medieval Spain on an arduous journey to 20th century Turkey, introducing Reina.
Frannie and Willie look forward to their summertime visits at Aunt Bea’s cottage. When they arrive, they are greeted with a smile from good friend Miss Minnie and Aunt Bea’s delicious treats. With the promise of the best game they’ll ever play, the children roll colored stones hoping to find good fortune. Aunt Bea is hopeful that the children find value in her special game and encourages each of them to share what they’ve learned.
Henri, the French Bulldog, loves his home in bustling New York City. He lives in an apartment, has a dog walker, and steers clear of the pond in Central Park. When his mom decides to move to California, Henri is not so sure he’ll adjust to their new home. But, when he arrives, Henri is pleasantly surprised by the warm breeze and palm trees, and even meets new friends on his first day of doggie daycare. The next day, though, his new friends hear his unique snorting sound.
