Heather Moore Niver

Eli Whitney is remembered as a great inventor. His cotton gin was one of the most important inventions of the Industrial Revolution, and it did much to shape the course of the American economy. This biography explores Whitney's entrepreneurial mind, bringing into focus his inventions, innovations, and hardworking spirit. Through accessible language and detailed images, this curriculum-focused book provides an in-depth look at the Industrial Revolution, Whitney's role in it, and how together they helped shape a growing nation. A timeline and primary sources complete a comprehensive learning experience.

Everyone knows what a hay bale looks like, but how does it get into that shape? While baling equipment might not make it into farm stories among the classic tractors, animals, and tools, its usefulness on the modern farm is indisputable. Concise text guides readers through the uses of baling equipment, how it forms round and square bales, and what happens with the hay afterward. Full-color photographs and lively language keeps them engaged and interested in learning all about the exciting equipment that makes the hay bale.

Modern farms cover vast areas of land, so when it comes time to apply fertilizer or a protective insecticide, spraying equipment is incredibly useful. In this simple, colorful text, young readers are introduced to all kinds of sprayers. They find out about the huge piece of equipment that moves on its own, pull-behind models, and the smaller piece that is pulled by an all-terrain vehicle. Spirited text and simple, fun language will keep readers turning pages, learning how this fascinating equipment works.

Forests fascinate readers and hikers alike. And the deciduous forest, perhaps the "classic" forest biome, fills our stories and is the go-to spot for many outdoor activities. This informative book describes the forest many think they know, presenting the abundant life within, including trees, animals, plants, and even moss. Readers will learn about its iconic four seasons, as well as why trees drop their leaves and change from green to the brilliant hues of autumn. Thought-provoking sidebars prompt further investigation.

Rear Admiral Dr. Grace Murray Hopper became known as "Amazing Grace" and the "First Lady of software" at a time when women rarely ventured into math and computer work. In this captivating biography, readers will learn how her pioneering work in the field changed computers as we know them today, including how we refer to malfunctions. They will also discover how she helped develop computer language, paving the way for modern computer coding. Full-color photographs, fast facts, and direct quotes help to illuminate this portrayal of one of the most innovative and inspiring figures of the twentieth century.

Whether it is the tiny, flitting hummingbird, the long-legged ostrich, the exotic bird of paradise, or the common chicken, birds are a fascinating and unique group of animals. In this accessible book, readers learn about different kinds of birds, their life cycles, the habitats in which they live, adaptation, and behaviors. A helpful glossary and follow-up activity enhance the text, which supports Next Generation Science Standards. Fun facts and full-color photographs are bound to get even reluctant readers enthused about our feathered friends.

Insects are the most abundant animals on our planet and predate even the dinosaurs by 170 million years. This informative book provides an overview of the fascinating world of insects, some of which are as minuscule as a pencil tip. Readers will learn about the physical characteristics of insects, as well as their life cycles and diets, all of which supports Next Generation Science Standards. Vibrant photographs and fun facts supplement the high-interest text, which will appeal to fans of bugs and butterflies alike.

The idea of the Roaring '20s conjures up images of speakeasies, women with short, saucy hairdos, and hot jazz. Readers will learn about the historical events that define this decade, including the devastating war that preceded it. An explanation about project-based learning will help readers understand how it can help them research their topic in unique and interesting ways. Constructive suggestions offer ideas for projects, while encouraging readers to take their studies in new and interesting directions.

The Civil Rights Movement changed the face of America when it commenced back in the 1950s, but racism is still a contentious reality in the twenty-first century. Readers will get a thorough review of the movement, its major players, and the lasting effects it had on the country. They'll also learn what project-based learning entails, and how they can put it to use. Hands-on project suggestions encourage readers to think creatively as well as analytically about the Civil Rights Movement, while allowing them more flexibility in how they approach it.

On May 28, 1953, Sir Edmund Hillary made history by climbing the highest mountain on Earth: Mount Everest. He was the first man to stand on top of this daunting peak. Readers will enjoy the story of Hillary and his guide Tenzing Norgay as they tackled the most demanding climb in the world. Starting with Hillary's interest in climbing as a teen, readers will learn all about the preparation, planning, and hard work that made this exciting climb possible, as well as the history of this magnificent mountain.

Almost no one can resist the compulsion to start tapping their feet or snapping their fingers when a good song comes on the radio. Almost every young reader has been hearing songs since they were born. This book introduces the fundamental aspects of songs, paired with examples both new and familiar, from common songs they likely know to new, different songs from around the world. Eye-catching photographs help reinforce the text. This insightful book will get readers excited to explore more songs, and maybe even begin writing their own.

Poetry is a word that strikes terror in the hearts of many creatively challenged readers, and often students come away with the impression that poems are dull and difficult to comprehend. In this accessible work, readers will be introduced to common terms to expect when reading poetry, including rhythm, rhyme, form, and more, with examples they can enjoy, such as nursery rhymes. This easy to understand introduction helps sort it all out and endeavors to spark an enthusiasm for the genre and inspiration to begin writing original poems for themselves.

Almost everyone has heard the phrase: "A picture is worth a thousand words," and this book focuses on the very picture books that have intrigued and entranced readers young and old since the first one was published. Readers will learn about the basic types of picture books they are likely to find in their school libraries or books stores, starting with board books for babies and moving up to picture books for adults. Examples include authors and books that are sure to pique the interest of any reader.

Chancellor Bennett's blazing rise to fame has made history, not only for its speed, but also in its unconventional path. Readers will learn about the childhood of the young man who would one day become Chance the Rapper. Frank but appropriate text tells the tale of a young rapper who got into trouble with drugs, but was able to turn his life around. Chance the Rapper went on to have a family and change history with his unique and memorable albums called mixtapes. Supplemented by color photographs and inspiring quotes, his story of music, family, and charity will remind readers to follow their hearts and make a positive difference in the world.

Bear cubs are super cute when they tumble and play, but this play with each other and their mothers actually teaches them how to survive on their own one day. Fun facts round out their story, and vibrant photographs show baby bears as they grow up, learning to forage, hunt, and defend themselves. Readers will learn all about the lives of bear cubs as they grow from helpless, hairless babies into adults ready to face the wild world.

Everyone loves a good story, whether it's true or not. Even infants love a simple board book. In this lively resource, readers will learn about the craft of fiction. Simple explanations describe many of the most common types of fiction, as well as the parts that make it up. Age-appropriate examples and authors help explain the various elements and types of fiction. Readers will be engaged by a supplementary activity that will spark their imaginations and prompt them to start writing fiction of their own.

Equality is as simple an idea as it is complex. This resource introduces young readers to the concept of equality using age-appropriate books, historical cases, and everyday examples. Lively, simple-to-understand text illustrates the problems with inequality and helps readers understand why and how it is an issue that needs to be addressed. They will learn why equality matters, as well as how they can make a difference in their own lives as well as in their own classrooms.

Equality is as simple an idea as it is complex. This resource introduces young readers to the concept of equality using age-appropriate books, historical cases, and everyday examples. Lively, simple-to-understand text illustrates the problems with inequality and helps readers understand why and how it is an issue that needs to be addressed. They will learn why equality matters, as well as how they can make a difference in their own lives as well as in their own classrooms.