Jill Keppeler

Why does snow sometimes appear in places it doesn't belong? Readers will learn all about this wildly weird weather phenomenon in this educational and interesting book They'll discover key incidents from history in which snow appeared in odd places and learn about why this may have happened. They'll learn how climate change may be influencing weather patterns globally, causing snow to appear in places where it traditionally hasn't fallen. Paired with vibrant photographs and useful diagrams, the high-interest material is sure to captivate students of science and history and perhaps inspire a new interest in meteorology.

The First Amendment of the U. S. Constitution guarantees that Congress "shall make no law . . . abridging the freedom of speech or of the press." But what does that mean? In this easy-to-understand book, readers will learn more about the background and history of the First Amendment and its promises, including freedom of speech. They'll learn what that means--and doesn't mean--and more about common misconceptions about this important right. Accessible text dealing with real-life situations and graphics further explaining the details will draw in anyone interested in knowing about basic American rights.

It might be hard to take a puffer fish seriously, especially when it's all blown up like a fishy balloon. However, that's the last mistake some predators will ever make In this intriguing volume, young readers will journey under the waves to investigate the many species of puffer fish. Full-color photos will help them examine the curious puffer and its many defenses, while detailed text explains the creatures' life, habitat, anatomy, and more.

Bacteria are the smallest of the small These one-celled organisms live everywhere on Earth, and while most are harmless (or helpful), some can cause a lot of damage through disease. In this book, readers will learn more about bacteria, including their history (they were among the first life-forms on the planet), their life, and how they can cause trouble. Fascinating details pull readers into the text, while full-color photographs show these tiniest of terrors up close.

Life without a phone is so hard to imagine Without the ability to call our friends, family, or even emergency services, life would certainly be much more difficult. Through accessible, fun-size facts, readers of this STEM-supporting book will learn how the invention of the telephone came about, how it transformed rapidly over the years, and how it can truly be said to have changed the world. Carefully selected images complement the well-researched information and valuable graphic organizers reinforce the most essential facts for budding inventors and historians.

The nation of South Africa has been through its share of struggles. From British colonialism to the brutal system of apartheid, South Africans--especially Black South Africans--throughout history have worked hard to build and hold on to their unique culture in challenging times. Readers explore both the history and present cultural environment of South Africa in this carefully updated guide to Africa's southernmost nation. Fact boxes, full-color photographs, maps, and recipes are presented alongside the comprehensive main text, and sidebars provide additional information, including biographies of those South Africans who are examples of global citizenship.

China, one of the largest countries in the world, is full of natural wonders of many kinds. From the peak of Huangshan, the Yellow Mountain, to the subterranean beauty of Shuanghe Cave, the country has an immense variety of amazing and unusual landforms, waterways, and plants. Readers can admire full-color photographs of such sites as the Stone Forest, or Shilin, the otherworldly mountains of Zhangjiajie National Park, and the rainbow waters of Yuncheng Lake. They'll also learn further fascinating details about all the sites through in-depth sidebars and connected stories.

China, one of the largest countries in the world, is full of natural wonders of many kinds. From the peak of Huangshan, the Yellow Mountain, to the subterranean beauty of Shuanghe Cave, the country has an immense variety of amazing and unusual landforms, waterways, and plants. Readers can admire full-color photographs of such sites as the Stone Forest, or Shilin, the otherworldly mountains of Zhangjiajie National Park, and the rainbow waters of Yuncheng Lake. They'll also learn further fascinating details about all the sites through in-depth sidebars and connected stories.

Earthquakes are far too real a danger for many Americans today. In 2019 and 2020, Puerto Rico was hit by a string of earthquakes, the largest of which reached a magnitude of 6.4. These earthquakes killed people and left many more injured or homeless. They also caused several hundred million dollars in damages. This title looks at the science behind earthquakes and how and why they occur, as well as how scientists detect and measure them. Primary sources, charts, and graphic organizers provide additional information and help readers develop important critical-thinking skills.

Thailand is a Southeast Asian kingdom once known as Siam. Today, it's a popular tourist destination and a powerful economic force. Readers discover Thailand's past and present in this detailed guide. Featuring meticulously researched main text, engaging sidebars, and fun fact boxes, this reading experience allows readers to dive deeply into the details of Thailand's culture. Helpful maps and stunning photographs add a vibrant visual element to this reading experience. Readers are also encouraged to take a hands-on approach to global citizenship as they try their hand at making Thai cuisine with the help of fun recipes.

It's one of the rarest structures in Minecraft--but the explorers have found one When Maria, Mike, Kiera, Adam, and Rose come across a massive woodland mansion, they know they'll have to be prepared before they set foot in its dark, spooky halls. Fortunately, they have more resources than ever before. Readers will love this look at one of the game's best adventures, and Minecraft fans will find the group's preparations for and trip into the mansion useful for all its in-game tips and tricks.

What happens when Kiara's little sister Amaya follows the Minecraft explorers into their portal in the city? Nothing good, especially according to Kiara Still, Maria, Mike, and their friends head for their first Minecraft village, ready for some trading and building. But when all the baby villagers--and Amaya--vanish, they'll have to figure out how to save the day. Young Minecraft fans will enjoy this new adventure in the gaming world, complete with tips, teamwork, and an exciting story.

The Minecraft Overworld can be a challenge--but it's nothing like the Nether With upgraded tools, weapons, and armor, Maria, Mike, Kiera, Adam, and Rose are ready for their first trip into Minecraft's fiery, dangerous second dimension. Or are they? Readers will enjoy the suspense and adventure as the characters venture into another new environment. They'll also learn more Minecraft tips and tricks through the story and illustrations in this intriguing graphic novel.

Maria and Mike are back home in the city, and with school and other activities, it's a little more of a challenge to find a chance to check out the new Minecraft map Steve gave them before they left their aunt's ranch. But when they do, their friends Kiara, Adam, and Rose come along for the trip This graphic novel picks up not long after Maria and Mike's first adventure left off, as the kids find a way into their Minecraft world from their home in the city. Young readers will be intrigued by relatable characters and gaming details as the adventures continues.

Global citizenship is an important value to foster in a world that grows more connected all the time. Readers gain the tools to be informed and open-minded global citizens in these guides to world cultures. From Argentina's economy to Brazil's environment and the government of Mexico to the cuisine of Colombia, readers uncover essential information about a variety of countries, as well as fun facts to make them feel like world travelers with each turn of the page. Featuring the most recent information about current events, each volume gives readers a comprehensive view of a unique part of the planet.

Artifacts can show a lot about a culture and its past, and China--with a history going back thousands and thousands of years--has more artifacts than most Even seemingly ordinary bits and pieces can show a lot about this fascinating region and country, if you know what to look for. Full-color photos of Chinese artifacts and intriguing details about their past will catch readers' interest. The mystery of history itself will pull them in to learning about mysterious swords, shining jade, flowing silk, and even the story behind the biggest artifact of them all.

What happens when Kiara's little sister Amaya follows the Minecraft explorers into their portal in the city? Nothing good, especially according to Kiara Still, Maria, Mike, and their friends head for their first Minecraft village, ready for some trading and building. But when all the baby villagers--and Amaya--vanish, they'll have to figure out how to save the day. Young Minecraft fans will enjoy this new adventure in the gaming world, complete with tips, teamwork, and an exciting story.

Maria and Mike are back home in the city, and with school and other activities, it's a little more of a challenge to find a chance to check out the new Minecraft map Steve gave them before they left their aunt's ranch. But when they do, their friends Kiara, Adam, and Rose come along for the trip This graphic novel picks up not long after Maria and Mike's first adventure left off, as the kids find a way into their Minecraft world from their home in the city. Young readers will be intrigued by relatable characters and gaming details as the adventures continues.

Argentina is the largest country in the world that has Spanish as its main language. This and other fun facts are waiting for readers to discover as they explore the places and people that make this South American nation unique. From its government and environment to its arts and food, each aspect of life in Argentina is the subject of a focused chapter that features the latest facts and vibrant photographs. Fact boxes and maps provide additional insight, and sidebars put a spotlight on Argentinian citizens who are shining examples of global citizenship.