Tankborn (Tankborn #1)

A Tankborn Novel
By Karen Sandler
    Paperback: $18.95

    Kayla and Mishalla, two genetically engineered enslaved non-human (GENs), fall in love with higher-status boys, discover deep secrets about the creation of GENs, and in the process find out what it means to be human.

    Description

    Enslaved by their genetics.

    Oppressed by their creators.

    Fighting for their humanity.

    On rugged planet Loka, life for best friends Kayla and Mishalla is arduous at best. They are GENs, Genetically Engineered Non-humans, and in their strict caste system, GENs are at the bottom rung of society. GENs are gestated in a tank and sent to work as slaves as soon as they reach age fifteen.

    When Kayla is Assigned to care for Zul Manel, the patriarch of a trueborn family, she finds secrets and surprises–not least of which is her budding friendship with Zul’s handsome great-grandson. Meanwhile, the children that Mishalla is Assigned to care for are being stolen in the middle of the night, and a strange lowborn boy is hanging around nearby.

    After weeks of toiling in their Assignments, mystifying circumstances enable Kayla and Mishalla to reunite. Together with the boys, they hatch a plan to save the disappearing children. Yet can GENs really trust humans? Both girls must put their lives and hearts at risk to crack open a sinister conspiracy, revealing secrets no one is ready to face.

    The first in a trilogy, Tankborn is a page-turning sci-fi thriller that will leave readers scrambling for the sequel!

    About the Creators

    Karen Sandler

    Karen Sandler is the author of the Tankborn trilogy as well as seventeen novels for adults and several short stories and screenplays. Before becoming a full-time writer, she worked as a software engineer, including work on the Space Shuttle program and communications satellites. She lives in northern California with her husband, Gary, and their three cats, and can often be found riding her Andalusian/Morgan mare, Belle. Find out more at karensandler.net.

    Reviews

    • "Advanced genetic engineering and upsettingly plausible caste oppression keep pages turning in this futuristic science fiction tale. . . A good option for science-fiction fans interested in genetic engineering, rebellion and class issues."

      - Kirkus Reviews
    • "The author's speculative vision of the darker side of future possibilities in genetic engineering and mind control is both chilling and thought-provoking. This is a dark novel that will appeal to those who enjoyed M.T. Anderson's Feed (Candlewick, 2002), and it would make a good stepping-stone to Anthony Burgess's classic, A Clockwork Orange (W.W. Norton, 1963)."

      - School Library Journal
    • "A riveting, romantic, sci fi mystery that explores the blurry lines between castes and what it means to be human. As suspenseful as thought-provoking–I loved it!"

      - Cynthia Leitich Smith, author of Tantalize
    • "Read this book and be changed."

      - Mette Ivie Harrison, author of The Princess and the Hound
    • "This is the kind of social commentary science fiction I always want more of."

      - The Parenthetical

    Paperback

  • ISBN 9781620142967
  • Publication Date Oct 31, 2015
  • Trim Size 8.25 × 5.5 in
  • Weight 0.9375 lbs
  • Page Count 384
  • Hardcover

  • ISBN 9781600606625
  • Publication Date Sep 15, 2011
  • Trim Size 8.25 × 5.5 in
  • Weight 1.4375 lbs
  • Page Count 384
  • Interests

  • Audience Young Adult
  • BISAC Category 1 YAF / Science Fiction / General
  • BISAC Category 2 YAF / Dystopian
  • BISAC Category 3 YAF / Romance / General
  • Themes African / African American / Black, Animal / Biodiversity / Plant Adaptations, Animals, Asian / Asian American / AAPI, Biracial / Multiracial, Breaking Gender Barriers, Bullying, Childhood Experiences and Memories, Conflict resolution, Discrimination, Dreams & Aspirations, Dystopia, Earth / Sun / Moon System, Empathy / Compassion, Families, Fantasy, Fiction, Friendship, Heroism, Identity / Self Esteem / Confidence, Integrity / Honesty, Leadership, Middle Grade, Mothers, Multiple Ethnicities Represented, Nature / Science, Occupations, Optimism / Enthusiasm, Overcoming Obstacles, Persistence / Grit, Poverty, Religion / Spiritual, Respect / Citizenship, Responsibility, Science Fiction / Fantasy, Self Control / Self Regulation, Slavery, YA interest
  • Reading Levels

  • Age Range Ages 12 - 17
  • Grade Range Grades 7 - 12
  • Guided Reading Z
  • ATOS Book Level 5.6
  • DRA 80
  • Interest Level Grades 7 - 12
  • Lexile Level 790
  • Reading Level Grades 6 - 12
  • SRC 5.2
  • Bebop Reading Fluent
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      The Lewins are on a quest through Botswana to see the majestic African elephants in this picture book travelogue.

      First Day in Grapes

      The powerful story of a migrant boy who grows in self-confidence when he uses his math prowess to stand up to the school bullies.

      Get Set! Swim!

      The day of the big swim meet has finally arrived, and Jessenia is excited, but a bit worried too.

      Going Back Home

      More than half a century after her family moved North to find a better life, artist Michele Wood returned to the South to see and experience the land where her ancestors lived, struggled, and thrived.

      Going Home, Coming Home

      Bilingual English/Vietnamese. This summer, Ami Chi is taking a trip to far off Vietnam, where the streets are crowded with zipping scooters and fruit is shaped like dragons and stars.

      Gorilla Walk

      In this delightful nonfiction travelogue, the Lewins trek through southern Uganda to visit mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.

      Home to Medicine Mountain

      Two young Maidu Indian brothers sent to live at a government-run Indian residential school in California in the 1930s find a way to escape and return home for the summer.

      Honda

      The life story of Soichiro Honda, pioneering Japanese businessman and innovative motorcycle and car manufacturer.

      Honoring Our Ancestors

      Through stories, art, and photographs, Honoring Our Ancestors will inspire children and their families to gain strength from the past as they ask themselves, "Who do I honor?"

      Horse Song

      Ted and Betsy Lewin's illustrated travelogue story of their trip to Mongolia to watch young boy and girl jockeys race horses in the traditional Naadam summer festival.

      I See the Rhythm

      i see the rhythmis an inspiring celebration of African American music and the far-reaching impact it has had on the world.

      In Her Hands

      A recreation of events from the childhood and early career of Augusta Savage, a pioneering female sculptor and major figure of the Harlem Renaissance.

      Jouanah

      Jouanah: A Hmong Cinderella is sure to shine as one of the most beautiful and moving versions of Cinderella from around the world.

      Just Like Me

      Through stories, paintings, and childhood photographs, these fourteen artists open their hearts and invite us to enter into their worlds. With honesty and encouragement, they offer hope for aspiring young people who dream of becoming artists- just like them.

      Lakas and the Manilatown Fish

      In this bilingual English-Tagalog story set in the U.S., an all-American boy of Filipino descent, some amusing manongs-Filipino elders-and a fish with unusual faculties take off on a fanciful romp through a dreamscape of the imagination.

      Land of Morning Calm

      Take a journey to both ancient and modern Korea, where you will find a rich world of history and traditions that will capture your imagination and whet your appetite for learning more about this fascinating culture.

      Little Sap and Monsieur Rodin

      The story of Little Sap, a young Cambodian dancer who posed for artist Auguste Rodin in 1906 during the Colonial Exhibition in France.

      Making Magic Windows

      Following the hands-on format of Carmen Lomas Garza's highly successful papel picado workshops, this book shows, step by step, how to create beautiful designs and banners by simply folding and cutting tissue paper.

      On My Block

      Fifteen fine artists portray, in words and pictures, the places and spaces most special to them.

      Puffling Patrol

      Ted and Betsy Lewin travel to Iceland to learn about the "Puffling Patrol," a group of children who rescue lost puffins and return them to sea.

      Sacred Mountain

      A photo-essay exploring the cultural, geological, and ecological history of Mount Everest, focusing on the indigenous Sherpa and their spiritual connection to the mountain, record-setting climbing expeditions, and the effects of tourism on the environment.

      Songs for America's Children

      Compiled in the aftermath of the 9/11 terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center in New York City, Songs for America's Children features a varied selection of song lyrics and art pieces by citizens of the United States, both young and old. It is a collection of songs written by modern and older poets and songwriters, within the context of characters from songs and poems by traditional American composers or poets.

      This Land is My Land

      Through his own words and paintings, acclaimed Native artist George Littlechild takes us back in time to the first meeting between his Plains Cree ancestors and the first European settlers in North America.

      Top to Bottom

      In this continuation of the Adventures Around the World series, the Lewins come face to face with Australia's wildest animals, from dingoes to crocodiles and more.

      What's the Most Beautiful Thing You Know About Horses?

      Author Richard Van Camp asks his friends and family, "What's the most beautiful thing you know about horses?"

      A Shelter in Our Car

      Zettie and her Mama left their warm and comfortable home in Jamaica for an uncertain life in the United Sates, and they are forced to live in Mama's car.

      A Place Where Sunflowers Grow

      Bilingual English/Japanese. A young girl finds things to be joyful about in the Topaz Internment Camp.

      A Man Called Raven

      Blending past with present, the magical with the real,A Man Called Ravenis both a tribute to the wisdom of the raven and a positive reminder that we can all learn from nature.

      Journey Home

      A biracial girl gains a new sense of identity when she travels to Vietnam with her mother.

      Steel Drumming at the Apollo

      A photo-essay following the members of a high school band through several rounds of Amateur Night competitions at the Apollo Theater in New York City. Includes a CD of the band playing their competition song, plus original compositions.

      Selvakumar Knew Better

      This true story of a courageous and clever dog who saved a boy's life during the devastating tsunami of 2004 is sure to touch the hearts of readers of all ages.

      The Magical Monkey King

      A retelling of stories about the brave, smart, and mischievous Monkey King, accompanied by Chinese brush painting and pen drawings.

      The Dragon Lover

      From the lazy farmer who hopes his food will come to him to the Sheriff who claims to love dragons only to hide his own fear, these proverbs are used in everyday Chinese life to illustrate moments of humor or clarity in our actions.

      D is for Doufu

      An alphabet book approach exploring the beauty and richness of the Chinese culture.

      A Song for Cambodia

      The true story of Arn Chorn-Pond, Cambodian American musician and human rights activist, who as a young boy survived Khmer Rouge work camps by learning to play a musical instrument.

      Janna and the Kings

      Saturdays are special for Janna. That's when she and Granddaddy spend the whole day together.

      Chachaji's Cup

      Neel loves listening to Chachaji's many stories over steaming cups of tea.

      Tankborn (Tankborn #1)

      Kayla and Mishalla, two genetically engineered enslaved non-human (GENs), fall in love with higher-status boys, discover deep secrets about the creation of GENs, and in the process find out what it means to be human.

      Life of a Genius

      A tribute to the spirited life of one of China's greatest literary and historical heroes--poet, scholar, and statesman Su Dongpo.

      Shanghai Messenger

      A story in verse of a biracial Chinese American girl's journey to self-discovery and love of family as she visits her extended family in Shanghai, China. For middle grade readers.

      Hiromi's Hands

      The true story of Hiromi Suzuki, a Japanese American girl who defied tradition to train at her family's restaurant, and who became one of the first female sushi chefs in New York.

      Irena's Jars of Secrets

      A picture book biography of Irena Sendler, a Polish Catholic social worker who helped save nearly 2500 Jewish children during the Nazi occupation of Poland during World War II.

      Yasmin's Hammer

      A young Bangladeshi girl who helps support her family by working in a brickyard finds a way to make her dream of going to school and learning to read a reality.

      A House by the River

      A young girl learns her rickety, old house by the river is stronger than the fiercest storm because it is fortified by love and family.

      Shining Star

      The true story of Chinese American film star Anna May Wong, whose trail-blazing career in Hollywood in the 1930s and 1940s broke new ground for future generations of Asian American actors.

      Seaside Dream

      In this tender story of immigration, a young girl finds a way to give her grandmother the perfect present and the courage to plan a trip to her home country, Cape Verde.

      The Road to Santiago

      A fictional story about a boy and his family in Havana who overcome obstacles to reach their relatives in Santiago to celebrate Christmas during the Cuban revolution in the 1950s.

      Game, Set, Match Champion Arthur Ashe

      A picture book biography of tennis player Arthur Ashe, who began his career playing tennis as a child on the segregated courts as a child in Virginia and went on to become the top tennis player in the world.

      Flowers From Mariko

      One girl's love and determination lift the spirits of her family after they are finally allowed to leave the internment camp they were placed in during WWII.

      Lakas and the Makibaka Hotel

      In this bilingual English-Tagalog story set in the US, Lakas, an all-American boy of Filipino descent, helps his new friends fight eviction from their home .

      Tan to Tamarind

      A poetry collection that explores the spectrum of beautiful shades of brown.

      Maneki Neko

      The Japanese legend of Maneki Neko, the beckoning cat, who is a symbol of good luck and good fortune in many Asian countries.

      Bird

      In this gentle, award-winning picture book, an African American boy nicknamed Bird uses drawing as a creative outlet as he struggles to make sense of his grandfather's death and his brother's drug addiction.

      Mama and Papa Have a Store

      A young girl describes what a typical day is like in her parents' Chinese store in Guatemala City, Guatemala. Recipient of a Pura Belpré Illustrator Award Honor in 2000.

      ¡Olé! Flamenco

      A photo-essay about flamenco, a centuries-old living art form, originating in southern Spain, that incorporates traditional dance, song, and music.

      Tofu Quilt

      A collection of poems telling the story of Yeung Ying, a young girl in Hong Kong in the 1960s who, against the conventions of society and family members, aspires to become a writer

      Chess Rumble

      A story in free verse about a troubled boy who learns to use his mind instead of his fists through the guidance of an unconventional mentor and the game of chess.

      Yummy

      A graphic novel based on the life and death of Robert "Yummy" Sandifer, an eleven-year-old gang member from Chicago's Southside who was killed by his own gang members.

      In the Time of the Drums

      Mentu, an enslaved child, learns about the culture of his people from his grandmother, Twi in this Gullah folk tale of an insurrection at Teakettle Creek.

      Summer of the Mariposas

      In this young adult retelling of The Odyssey, Odilia and her four sisters journey to Mexico to return a dead man to his family and encounter magical creatures along the way.

      Kiki's Journey

      Kiki and her parents travel back to the Taos Pueblo reservation where she was born to learn more about their Tiwa Indian heritage.

      Tashi and the Tibetan Flower Cure

      A Tibetan American girl helps her grandfather recover from an illness through the use of a traditional cure that focuses on friendship and compassion as partners in physical recovery.

      Love Twelve Miles Long

      A moving story about young Frederick Douglass and his mother, who walks twelve miles at night from a nearby plantation to visit him.

      Hot, Hot Roti for Dada-ji

      Overflowing with family, food, and a tall stack of fun, Hot, Hot Roti for Dada-ji is sure to warm the heart and tickle the tummy. A fun way for children to learn about the cultural traditions and foods of India to be enjoyed by the whole family.

      Africa Calling, Nighttime Falling

      A good-night book that celebrates the beauty and ecological diversity of the animals of Africa.

      We

      Here is the fascinating story of human development, from its beginnings in Africa millions of years ago to modern times.

      Etched in Clay

      The acclaimed biography-in-verse about the life and times of Dave, an enslaved potter who inscribed his works with short poems during the years leading up to the Civil War.

      Jingu: The Hidden Princess

      In fourth-century Japan, a princess lives a life of loneliness and learning until she makes a secret friend, but her destiny forbids that they ever be more than friends.

      Twenty-two Cents

      A biography of 2006 Nobel Peace Prize winner Muhammad Yunus, who revolutionized global antipoverty efforts by developing the innovative economic concept of micro-lending.

      Bowman's Store

      Bowman's Store gracefully weaves themes from Joseph Bruchac's intimate knowledge of Native American cultures with the scenes from the past that have shaped his life.

      Ghosts for Breakfast

      When the Troublesome Triplets complain that they have seen ghosts in Farmer Tanaka's field, Papa sets off with his son to hunt the ghosts in this fun story set in 1920s California.

      Grandfather Counts

      In this contemporary intergenerational story, a biracial girl and her Chinese grandfather overcome language differences and develop a special bond.

      Auntie Yang's Great Soybean Picnic

      When Jinyi and her family discover a soybean field, they begin a tradition that becomes a staple of the Chinese American community in the Midwest.

      The Hula-Hoopin' Queen

      A spunky African American girl has a hula-hooping competition with her friends in Harlem, and soon everyone in the neighborhood--young and old alike--joins in on the fun.

      Amazing Places

      A collection of original poems that celebrate some of the amazingly diverse places in our nation. Readers of all ages will want to visit each amazing place again and again!

      Silent Star

      The biography of William Ellsworth Hoy, the first deaf player to have a successful career in professional and Major League baseball.

      The People Shall Continue

      Republished for its fortieth anniversary, this powerful story by renowned Acoma Pueblo poet and storyteller Simon J. Ortiz traces the history of Native / Indigenous people of North America from the time of creation to the present.

      The Can Man

      To earn money, a young boy decides to collect and redeem empty soft drink cans, but ends up giving away his money to help a local homeless man.

      Alicia Afterimage

      A story of remembrance as well as an exploration of teen grief and healing, recounting the life and death of the author's sixteen-year-old daughter, as told through her parents' and friends' recollections, thoughts, feelings, and memories. For YA and adults.

      Babu's Song

      The story of a young Tanzanian boy who learns a lesson about family love after selling the special music box his grandfather made for him.

      Grandma's Purple Flowers

      An African American girl who cherishes her frequent visits to her favorite Grandma finds a way to remember her grandmother with hope and joy after she passes away.

      Saturday At the New You

      A girl spends the day at her mother's hair salon, a neighborhood gathering place.

      Sweet Potato Pie

      In this fictional story set in the South in the 1920s, an African American girl and her family sell Mama's sweet potato pies at the Harvest Celebration to raise money and save their farm.

      The Secret to Freedom

      In the days before the Civil War, a young enslaved girl and her older brother help slaves escape to freedom using the Underground Railroad quilt code.

      Willie Wins

      In this heart-warming story, a boy gets beyond peer pressure and comes to appreciate the depth of his father's love. First-time author Almira Astudillo Gilles teams up with artist Carl Angel to create an inspiring and suspenseful story. Young readers will be cheering for Willie all the way.

      Up the Learning Tree

      Henry Bell is not allowed to learn to read and write. In fact, most enslaved children, like him, are severely punished if they are even caught with a book.

      Zora Hurston and the Chinaberry Tree

      The true story of the famous writer, who as a young girl, learned about hope and strength from her mother.

      Bringing Asha Home

      A biracial Asian Indian American boy finds his own special way to bond with his sister while the family awaits her adoption from India.

      Grandfather's Story Cloth

      Chersheng feels sad and helpless when he learns that Grandfather has Alzheimer's Disease, but then Chersheng's mother presents him with a story cloth stitched by Grandfather himself, embroidered in the Hmong tradition.

      Singing with Momma Lou

      A young African American girl helps her grandmother, who suffers from Alzheimer's disease, regain some of her memories.

      Only One Year

      Three Chinese American children learn to trust and love one another again after the youngest child returns from a year living in China with extended family.

      Raymond's Perfect Present

      When he tries to surprise his sick mother with flowers that he grew, a Chinese American boy receives a nice surprise of his own.

      Under the Lemon Moon

      One night, Rosalinda is awakened by a noise in the garden.

      Aani and the Tree Huggers

      A village girl in India inspires the women around her to save their beloved forest.

      Bears

      Open this book to learn about all the different species of bears in the world.

      Box Turtles

      Box turtles are found in the United States and Mexico. Read this book to find out all about them.

      The Sun, Earth, and Moon

      Read this book to learn about the three most important objects in our solar system: the sun, Earth, and the moon.

      From Egg to Chick

      Read this book to learn about some of the stages in the development of a chick.

      My Cookbook

      Cooking is fun! In this book you will find recipes for some delicious foods you can make.

      Maize: Plant of the Americas

      Maize is an ancient plant grown all over the world. Read this book to find out why it is important.

      Inventors and Their Inventions

      Read this book to learn about some inventors who turned their ideas into inventions that make our lives easier, safer, or tastier!

      Saltypie

      Saltypie is the sweet taste of Choctaw tears in this powerful picture-book memoir.

      Crossing Bok Chitto

      In this American Indian Youth Literature Award-winning story of cross-cultural friendship, a family of enslaved people and a Choctaw tribe work together on a daring escape.

      The Barber's Cutting Edge

      In this celebration of everyday experiences, a young boy tries to figure out how his barber knows the definitions to all of his vocabulary words and uncovers a clever secret.

      Choose Your Days

      Old Bear gives baby Corky the keys to her days. "Choose your days," he whispers. "Make them sunny or grey."

      The Lovesick Skunk

      Is it true that skunks fall in love? Joe Hayes, that tall-tale-telling raconteur, is glad you asked.

      Crane Boy

      In this empowering picture book about arts, activism, and the environment, Kinga and his classmates create a dance to honor the cranes of Bhutan and raise awareness of their plight.

      The Bee Tree

      This beautifully illustrated STEM picture book is both a fascinating insight into honeybee behavior and a satisfying story of coming of age.

      The Smell of Old Lady Perfume

      Chela faces the challenges of the sixth grade after losing her best friend: her dad.

      Rise of the Halfling King

      In the first of a graphic novel series based on ancient Mesoamerican sagas, a magical boy from Maya legend takes on a giant snake, a power-hungry king, and three impossible tests.

      Pig Park

      Masi's barrio is wasting away. An entrepreneur comes to the rescue. But why? And his son has nice soft lips.

      The Harvey Milk Story

      A hopeful and inspiring biography of the historic gay activist Harvey Milk, who gave people the courage to be proud of who they are.

      Amelia's Road

      A girl from a migrant worker family overcomes the hardship of moving by creating a special place for herself.

      Cycle of Rice, Cycle of Life

      A photographic exploration of the cycles of traditional Balinese rice farming, a dynamic model of earth-friendly agriculture that connects a unique culture with the natural world.

      2776 in stock

    • 34
      Diverse Background English Middle School
      Collection of 34 books: $522.30

      Alicia Afterimage

      A story of remembrance as well as an exploration of teen grief and healing, recounting the life and death of the author's sixteen-year-old daughter, as told through her parents' and friends' recollections, thoughts, feelings, and memories. For YA and adults.

      Game, Set, Match Champion Arthur Ashe

      A picture book biography of tennis player Arthur Ashe, who began his career playing tennis as a child on the segregated courts as a child in Virginia and went on to become the top tennis player in the world.

      Tofu Quilt

      A collection of poems telling the story of Yeung Ying, a young girl in Hong Kong in the 1960s who, against the conventions of society and family members, aspires to become a writer

      Tan to Tamarind

      A poetry collection that explores the spectrum of beautiful shades of brown.

      Arrow of Lightning (Killer of Enemies #3)

      In the final installment of the Killer of Enemies series, Lozen attempts to live a life without the violence that so far has defined her life, but the remaining Ones will not let that happen without a fight.

      There's No Base Like Home

      ESPN Major League Baseball analyst and two-time Olympic medalist Jessica Mendoza teams up with her sister Alana Mendoza Dusan for their first highly-illustrated novel for young readers, a Dork Diaries for sporty kids.

      The Story of Tennis Champion Arthur Ashe

      The "Story" chapter-book line debuts with this action-packed tribute to Arthur Ashe, one of the most compelling athletes and humanitarians of the twentieth century.

      The Story of Car Engineer Soichiro Honda

      The "Story" chapter-book line debuts with this compelling biography of Soichiro Honda, the innovative motorcycle and car manufacturer and Japanese business pioneer.

      The Story of World War II Hero Irena Sendler

      The "Story" chapter-book line debuts with this beautiful celebration of the life of Irena Sendler, a social worker who helped save nearly 2500 Jewish children from the Warsaw Ghetto during the Nazi occupation of Poland.

      Killer of Enemies

      A post-Apocalyptic YA novel with a steampunk twist, based on an Apache legend.

      Etched in Clay

      The acclaimed biography-in-verse about the life and times of Dave, an enslaved potter who inscribed his works with short poems during the years leading up to the Civil War.

      Awakening (Tankborn #2)

      Before Kayla can free her fellow GENs from enslavement, she must save them from a deadly virus.

      Cat Girl's Day Off

      In this hilarious YA homage to Ferris Bueller's Chicago, Natalie must use her Talent of talking to cats to solve a high-profile celebrity kidnapping.

      Life of a Genius

      A tribute to the spirited life of one of China's greatest literary and historical heroes--poet, scholar, and statesman Su Dongpo.

      Tankborn (Tankborn #1)

      Kayla and Mishalla, two genetically engineered enslaved non-human (GENs), fall in love with higher-status boys, discover deep secrets about the creation of GENs, and in the process find out what it means to be human.

      Summer of the Mariposas

      In this young adult retelling of The Odyssey, Odilia and her four sisters journey to Mexico to return a dead man to his family and encounter magical creatures along the way.

      Celebrate! Connections Among Cultures

      A photographic exploration comparing celebrations in seven indigenous world cultures and the United States, highlighting common rituals such as body decoration, music, and dance.

      Vodník

      When Tomas moves with his family to Slovakia, the Slovakian creatures from his youth come to life.

      Honoring Our Ancestors

      Through stories, art, and photographs, Honoring Our Ancestors will inspire children and their families to gain strength from the past as they ask themselves, "Who do I honor?"

      How We Are Smart

      Musician Tito Puente. Ballerina Maria Tallchief. Explorer Matthew Henson. Congresswoman Patsy Mink. These are some of the people profiled in this book. They are well known for different reasons, but they also have something in common. They were all smart!

      I See the Rhythm

      i see the rhythmis an inspiring celebration of African American music and the far-reaching impact it has had on the world.

      When the Horses Ride By

      Through these graceful and eloquent poems, written from the child's perspective, readers will experience this resilience, this optimism, and understand that it is possible to get through difficult and unsettling times while holding onto one's hopes and dreams for a better, more peaceful future. 

      Bowman's Store

      Bowman's Store gracefully weaves themes from Joseph Bruchac's intimate knowledge of Native American cultures with the scenes from the past that have shaped his life.

      Hammer of Witches

      In this YA historical fantasy, a teen from Spain finds himself aboard a ship sailing to the "New World" with Christopher Columbus.

      Rattlesnake Mesa

      A true account of a spirited Native American girl's experiences growing up on a reservation and attending Phoenix Indian School in the 1920s, written in an engaging, unconventional style and accompanied by 38 dramatic photographs.

      Surfer of the Century

      The true story of Hawaiian Duke Kahanamoku, six-time Olympic swimming champion and legendary surfer who popularized surfing around the world.

      Diverse Energies

      A collection of dystopian short stories featuring diverse main characters and by authors of color.

      Yummy

      A graphic novel based on the life and death of Robert "Yummy" Sandifer, an eleven-year-old gang member from Chicago's Southside who was killed by his own gang members.

      Under the Mesquite

      Lupita, a budding actor and poet in a close-knit Mexican American immigrant family, comes of age as she struggles with adult responsibilities during her mother's long illness.

      Wolf Mark

      Luke King, whose father is a black-ops infiltrator, uses the skills his father taught him to figure out his family's paranormal secret and save his kidnapped father and his own friends.

      The Monster in the Mudball

      In this lower middle-grade mystery, Jin must hunt down the monster he accidentally freed, before it eats his baby brother.

      Mama's Window

      After his mother dies, "Sugar" Martin is sent to live with his gruff uncle Free, a loner who makes his living fishing in a swamp in the Mississippi Delta in the early 1900s.

      Steel Drumming at the Apollo

      A photo-essay following the members of a high school band through several rounds of Amateur Night competitions at the Apollo Theater in New York City. Includes a CD of the band playing their competition song, plus original compositions.

      Chess Rumble

      A story in free verse about a troubled boy who learns to use his mind instead of his fists through the guidance of an unconventional mentor and the game of chess.

    • 6
      English Guided Reading Level Z
      Collection of 6 books: $90.70

      Alicia Afterimage

      A story of remembrance as well as an exploration of teen grief and healing, recounting the life and death of the author's sixteen-year-old daughter, as told through her parents' and friends' recollections, thoughts, feelings, and memories. For YA and adults.

      Tankborn (Tankborn #1)

      Kayla and Mishalla, two genetically engineered enslaved non-human (GENs), fall in love with higher-status boys, discover deep secrets about the creation of GENs, and in the process find out what it means to be human.

      Cat Girl's Day Off

      In this hilarious YA homage to Ferris Bueller's Chicago, Natalie must use her Talent of talking to cats to solve a high-profile celebrity kidnapping.

      Summer of the Mariposas

      In this young adult retelling of The Odyssey, Odilia and her four sisters journey to Mexico to return a dead man to his family and encounter magical creatures along the way.

      Land of Morning Calm

      Take a journey to both ancient and modern Korea, where you will find a rich world of history and traditions that will capture your imagination and whet your appetite for learning more about this fascinating culture.

      Bowman's Store

      Bowman's Store gracefully weaves themes from Joseph Bruchac's intimate knowledge of Native American cultures with the scenes from the past that have shaped his life.

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