
Afternoon on the Amazon
by Mary Pope Osborne
In Afternoon on the Amazon, siblings Jack and Annie are whisked away by the Magic Tree House to the lush and mysterious Amazon River. This sixth installment in the beloved series is perfect for children who love exploring the natural world. As they navigate the dense rainforest, they encounter everything from vampire bats to swarms of killer ants, making it a thrilling read for young adventurers.
This book is an ideal choice for readers interested in animals and the environment. Mary Pope Osborne masterfully blends excitement with educational facts about the rainforest ecosystem. It is a great choice for parents looking to encourage independent reading through engaging, fast-paced storytelling that keeps kids turning the pages to see if Jack and Annie will find their way back home.
Highlights:
- Exciting introduction to the Amazon rainforest and its diverse wildlife.
- Perfect for early readers transitioning from picture books to chapter books.
- Promotes problem-solving and teamwork between the two main characters.
- Includes a mix of fantasy elements and real-world science and nature.

Autre-Monde 2 : Malronce
by Maxime Chattam
Plongez dans le deuxième volet de la saga épique Autre-Monde, où la Terre telle que nous la connaissons a disparu. Dans ce monde transformé par une tempête surnaturelle, la nature a repris ses droits et les adultes sont devenus des créatures menaçantes. Nous suivons Matt, Ambre et Tobias, trois adolescents courageux qui doivent naviguer dans une jungle de dangers pour survivre et comprendre les mystères de cette nouvelle réalité. Ce récit est idéal pour les lecteurs passionnés par les récits de survie et les univers post-apocalyptiques fascinants.
Dans Malronce, l'enjeu devient vital alors que nos héros affrontent une reine mystérieuse et impitoyable. Maxime Chattam tisse une intrigue haletante mêlant action, réflexions écologiques et voyage initiatique. C'est un choix parfait pour les adolescents qui aiment les sagas d'aventure à grande échelle comme Hunger Games ou Le Labyrinthe, offrant une immersion totale dans un univers richement détaillé où chaque décision peut être la dernière.
Highlights:
- Une aventure épique dans un monde post-apocalyptique unique.
- Des thématiques fortes sur l'écologie et la préservation de la nature.
- Un suspense magistralement orchestré par un maître du thriller.
- Une exploration profonde de l'amitié et de la solidarité face à l'adversité.

Autre-Monde 3 : Le Cœur de la Terre
by Maxime Chattam
Dans ce troisième volet haletant de la saga Autre-Monde, l'invasion d'Eden est imminente. Matt, Ambre et Tobias, formant l'Alliance des Trois, doivent mobiliser toutes leurs forces pour défendre leur cité contre les plans maléfiques de la reine Malronce. Ce roman est idéal pour les lecteurs passionnés par les récits de survie et les mondes post-apocalyptiques où la nature reprend ses droits. Entre batailles épiques contre les Cyniks et mystères ancestraux, l'aventure atteint ici un point de non-retour.
Parfait pour les adolescents qui aiment les univers riches et sombres, ce livre explore des thèmes profonds comme la politique, la vie en communauté et le respect vital de l'environnement. Maxime Chattam livre une œuvre magistrale qui mêle action intense et réflexion écologique, faisant de ce titre un excellent choix pour les lecteurs en quête de sensations fortes et de mondes imaginaires complexes.
Highlights:
- Une conclusion épique pour le premier cycle de cette saga fantastique culte.
- Une exploration fascinante du lien entre l'humanité et la nature sauvage.
- Des personnages attachants qui grandissent face à des dilemmes moraux et politiques.
- Un rythme soutenu mêlant stratégie militaire, survie et pouvoirs surnaturels.

Autre-Monde 4 : Entropia
by Maxime Chattam
Dans ce quatrième volet de la saga épique Autre-Monde, l'Alliance des Trois doit faire face à sa plus grande menace. Une muraille de brouillard toxique et des créatures cauchemardesques progressent vers Eden, menaçant la fragile civilisation bâtie par les Pans. Entre complots internes et forces obscures, le royaume d'Entropia s'apprête à déverser le chaos sur ce nouveau monde. Ce roman est idéal pour les lecteurs passionnés par les récits de survie et les univers post-apocalyptiques où la nature reprend ses droits.
Maxime Chattam livre ici une aventure haletante qui explore la force de l'amitié et la résilience de la jeunesse face à l'adversité. Parfait pour les adolescents qui aiment les mondes imaginaires riches et les enjeux dramatiques intenses, ce livre est un excellent choix pour ceux qui ont dévoré des séries comme Labyrinthe ou Hunger Games. L'intrigue mêle habilement mystère, action et réflexion sur notre propre société.
Highlights:
- Une immersion totale dans un univers de fantasy post-apocalyptique unique.
- Des personnages adolescents profonds et attachants évoluant dans un monde hostile.
- Un suspense constant et des révélations sur les secrets de la Grande Tempête.
- Une réflexion passionnante sur l'écologie et la reconstruction d'une société.

Babymouse: Camp Babymouse
by Jennifer L. Holm
Join the spunky and imaginative Babymouse as she heads off to the great outdoors in Camp Babymouse. This sixth installment in the award-winning graphic novel series finds our favorite mouse ready for two weeks of fresh air, fun, and friendship. However, the wilderness proves to be more challenging than Babymouse expected. Her primary goal is simple: don't get lost. But with her vivid imagination and a knack for finding trouble, staying on the trail is easier said than done.
This book is a perfect choice for children who love funny, relatable characters and fast-paced storytelling. The graphic novel format, filled with expressive pink-and-black illustrations, makes it ideal for readers interested in visual storytelling and those who might be intimidated by traditional chapter books. Parents will appreciate how the story balances humor with themes of perseverance and courage, making it a great choice for building reading confidence in young fans of series like The Bad Guys or Narwhal and Jelly.
Highlights:
- Engaging graphic novel format that encourages reluctant readers.
- Hilarious and relatable protagonist that children adore.
- Explores themes of outdoor adventure, friendship, and resilience.
- Part of a bestselling series with over three million copies sold.

Bone: Rock Jaw: Master of the Eastern Border
by Jeff Smith
In the fifth volume of the acclaimed Bone series, Fone and Smiley Bone find themselves separated from their cousins and navigating the treacherous Eastern Border. Their mission is a delicate one: they are attempting to return a lost rat creature cub to the mountains. However, the wilderness is far from safe. They soon encounter the formidable Rock Jaw, an enormous and cynical mountain lion who considers himself the master of the territory. As the Bone cousins try to protect a group of orphaned baby animals, they must use their wits to survive the shifting alliances of the wild.
This installment is perfect for children who love epic quests mixed with slapstick humor and high-stakes tension. Jeff Smith’s masterful storytelling and expressive illustrations make this an ideal choice for readers interested in graphic novels that offer both heart and adventure. It is a great choice for fans of Amulet or Wings of Fire who are looking for a series that balances lighthearted moments with a truly grand narrative scope.
Highlights:
- Features the fan-favorite duo of Fone Bone and the hilarious Smiley Bone.
- Introduces Rock Jaw, one of the most complex and memorable antagonists in the series.
- Explores themes of responsibility and the consequences of war on nature.
- Stunning visual storytelling that captures both humor and intense action.

Brian's Hunt
by Gary Paulsen
In Brian's Hunt, the final installment of Gary Paulsen's legendary survival series, Brian Robeson returns to the wild where he feels most at home. While camping in the deep woods, Brian discovers a wounded dog, leading him on a tense and emotional journey to find out what happened. His instincts suggest a dangerous predator is on the loose, prompting him to travel north to protect his Cree friends. This gripping tale masterfully explores the deep connection between humans and animals and the raw reality of life in the wilderness.
This book is a perfect choice for children who love high-stakes survival stories and readers interested in the great outdoors. Gary Paulsen’s spare, evocative prose makes it an ideal pick for reluctant readers who enjoy fast-paced action and realistic scenarios. Fans of the original Hatchet will find this a satisfying conclusion to Brian's journey, offering a mature look at his growth as a woodsman and his respect for the natural world.
Highlights:
- A thrilling conclusion to the beloved Hatchet series.
- Explores the powerful and mysterious bond between a boy and his dog.
- Perfect for fans of wilderness survival and realistic adventure fiction.
- Features intense encounters with nature and lessons in tracking and survival.

Brian's Return
by Gary Paulsen
In Brian's Return, Gary Paulsen brings readers back into the world of Brian Robeson, the resilient protagonist of the award-winning classic Hatchet. After surviving the harsh wilderness and returning to civilization, Brian finds himself struggling to adapt to the "normal" world. High school life, with its social pressures and noise, feels more alien to him than the quiet, dangerous woods ever did. This powerful story explores Brian's realization that he truly belongs in the wild, leading him to make the life-changing decision to return to the northern woods.
This book is perfect for children who love survival stories and readers interested in the deep connection between humans and nature. Gary Paulsen's vivid descriptions of the wilderness and Brian's internal journey make this an ideal choice for fans of outdoor adventure and character-driven narratives. It is a poignant conclusion to Brian's journey of self-discovery, highlighting the importance of finding where one truly belongs.
Highlights:
- A compelling exploration of the psychological impact of survival and the struggle to reintegrate into society.
- Vivid, realistic descriptions of nature and the skills required to live off the land.
- A deeply personal look at a young man's search for identity and purpose.
- The fourth installment in the beloved Hatchet series.

Brian's Winter
by Gary Paulsen
Brian's Winter is a gripping "what-if" sequel to Gary Paulsen's classic survival story, Hatchet. In this riveting adventure, thirteen-year-old Brian Robeson is not rescued at the end of summer. Instead, he must face the brutal, unforgiving Canadian winter with only his wits and his hatchet. This story is perfect for children who love high-stakes survival tales and readers interested in the raw power of nature. Paulsen's breathtaking descriptions of the wilderness make this an immersive experience for any young reader who has ever wondered if they could survive on their own.
This book is an ideal choice for fans of outdoor exploration and realistic fiction. It explores deep themes of resilience and self-reliance as Brian learns to hunt, build shelter, and stay warm against impossible odds. It is a great choice for reluctant readers because of its fast-paced plot and visceral action. Parents looking for books that inspire grit and a connection to the natural world will find this to be a standout addition to their child's library.
Highlights:
- An intense, realistic look at wilderness survival and bushcraft skills.
- A compelling "alternate ending" scenario that expands on a beloved classic.
- Focuses on character growth, problem-solving, and mental toughness.
- Perfect for fans of My Side of the Mountain and Island of the Blue Dolphins.

Buffalo Before Breakfast
by Mary Pope Osborne
Join Jack and Annie on a thrilling journey back in time to the Great Plains of the United States! In Buffalo Before Breakfast, the Magic Tree House whisks the siblings and their enchanted dog, Teddy, nearly 200 years into the past. This installment is perfect for children who love exploring history through the lens of magic and adventure. Readers will follow the duo as they meet a Lakota boy and learn about the deep connection between the people and the buffalo. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in Native American culture and the natural world.
The stakes are high when a massive buffalo stampede threatens everything. Jack and Annie must use their wits and courage to save the day, making this a great choice for kids who enjoy fast-paced action and relatable heroes. This book is a staple for early readers transitioning into chapter books, offering a blend of educational facts and imaginative storytelling that keeps young minds engaged from start to finish.
Highlights:
- Engaging introduction to Lakota culture and Great Plains history.
- Perfect for fans of the Magic Tree House series and historical fiction.
- Encourages themes of bravery, respect for nature, and teamwork.
- Short chapters and illustrations make it accessible for early readers.

Camp Time in California
by Mary Pope Osborne
Join Jack and Annie on a breathtaking journey to Yosemite National Park in Camp Time in California. In this installment of the beloved Magic Tree House series, the siblings are whisked away to the tallest trees on Earth with a mission to save the wilderness. As they explore the grand and peaceful landscape, they learn that protecting nature requires more than just looking with their eyes—it requires feeling with their hearts. This story is a perfect blend of magic, history, and environmental awareness.
Ideal for readers interested in the great outdoors and animal encounters, this book introduces children to the importance of conservation through an engaging time-travel narrative. Whether your child is a longtime fan of Jack and Annie or just starting their first chapter book, this adventure provides the perfect balance of suspense and educational value. It is a great choice for parents looking to inspire a love for national parks and the environment in their young explorers.
Highlights:
- Exciting exploration of Yosemite National Park and its giant sequoias.
- Themes of environmental conservation and protecting the wilderness.
- Engaging mix of historical figures and magical adventure.
- Perfect for transitioning readers who enjoy short, fast-paced chapters.

Camping with Unicorns
by Dana Simpson
Camping with Unicorns is a delightful addition to the beloved series featuring Phoebe and her narcissistic yet lovable unicorn friend, Marigold Heavenly Nostrils. As school lets out for the summer, the duo embarks on a series of whimsical adventures, from lounging by the pool to exploring the deep woods on a camping trip. This installment is perfect for children who love magical realism blended with relatable childhood experiences. Readers will enjoy meeting Alabaster, a new unicorn who introduces high-tech plant-powered gaming to the forest, adding a modern twist to the mythical setting.
Ideal for readers interested in funny graphic novels and stories about unique friendships, Dana Simpson’s witty dialogue and charming illustrations make this a great choice for fans of Smile or The Bad Guys. Beyond the humor and magic, the story carries a heartfelt message about the pressures of being "cool" and the importance of staying true to oneself. It is an engaging read that encourages empathy and self-acceptance through the lens of a sparkling, horn-roasting summer vacation.
Highlights:
- Features the hilarious and heartwarming bond between a girl and her unicorn.
- Explores themes of self-identity and the value of being your true self.
- Perfect for fans of humorous graphic novels and magical adventures.
- Includes fun new characters like Alabaster the plant-powered gamer unicorn.

Caroline aux sports d'hiver
by Pierre Probst
Dans cet album classique de Pierre Probst, Caroline emmène toute sa joyeuse bande d'amis animaux à la montagne pour découvrir les joies des sports d'hiver. Entre les leçons de ski, les descentes effrénées en luge et les inévitables batailles de boules de neige, chaque page regorge de détails amusants et de péripéties tendres. C'est une lecture parfaite pour les enfants qui aiment les animaux et les récits d'aventure en plein air.
Ce titre est un choix idéal pour les jeunes lecteurs intéressés par l'univers de la neige et de la montagne. Les illustrations riches et colorées captivent l'attention, tandis que l'humour des situations rencontrées par Pipo, Youpi et les autres compagnons de Caroline garantit un moment de lecture complice entre parents et enfants. C'est une excellente porte d'entrée vers la littérature jeunesse patrimoniale française.
Highlights:
- Une immersion joyeuse dans l'univers des sports d'hiver et de la montagne.
- Des personnages attachants et une dynamique de groupe positive basée sur l'entraide.
- Des illustrations détaillées qui stimulent l'imaginaire et le sens de l'observation.
- Un style narratif simple et accessible pour les premières lectures autonomes.

Caroline fait du bateau
by Pierre Probst
Rejoignez Caroline et sa joyeuse bande d'amis animaux pour une nouvelle aventure palpitante sur l'eau ! Dans cet album classique de Pierre Probst, notre héroïne préférée décide de partir en mer, mais comme toujours avec Pouf, Noiraud et Youpi, rien ne se passe tout à fait comme prévu. Entre rires, petites frayeurs et découvertes maritimes, ce récit transporte les jeunes lecteurs dans un univers coloré et bienveillant.
Ce livre est parfait pour les enfants qui aiment les animaux et les histoires de camaraderie. Les illustrations détaillées et le texte accessible en font un choix idéal pour les lecteurs débutants ou pour une lecture du soir partagée. C'est une excellente option pour initier les plus petits au plaisir de la lecture tout en explorant les thèmes de l'entraide et de l'exploration.
Highlights:
- Une aventure maritime pleine de rebondissements avec des personnages attachants.
- Des illustrations classiques et intemporelles qui stimulent l'imagination.
- Une histoire centrée sur l'amitié et la solidarité entre Caroline et ses animaux.
- Un format idéal pour les premières lectures autonomes ou accompagnées.

Contes
by Hans Christian Andersen
Plongez dans l'univers intemporel de Hans Christian Andersen avec ce magnifique recueil illustré par le talentueux Quentin Gréban. Ce livre regroupe trois des contes les plus emblématiques du patrimoine mondial : Poucette, La Petite Sirène et Le Rossignol et l'Empereur. À travers ces récits, les jeunes lecteurs découvriront des mondes merveilleux, des profondeurs de l'océan aux jardins impériaux de Chine, portés par une plume poétique et des illustrations somptueuses qui donnent vie à chaque émotion.
Ce recueil est idéal pour les enfants qui aiment les histoires de magie, de transformation et de courage. C'est un excellent choix pour initier les jeunes lecteurs aux grands classiques de la littérature jeunesse tout en stimulant leur imagination. Que ce soit pour une lecture accompagnée le soir ou pour une première exploration autonome, ces contes offrent une profondeur thématique rare, abordant la quête d'identité, le sacrifice et la beauté de la nature. Parfait pour les familles cherchant des histoires riches en sens et en esthétisme.
Highlights:
- Trois contes incontournables d'Andersen réunis dans un seul volume.
- Des illustrations époustouflantes de Quentin Gréban qui subliment le texte.
- Une exploration profonde des émotions humaines et de la nature.
- Un format idéal pour la lecture à voix haute ou la découverte des classiques.

Dark Day in the Deep Sea
by Mary Pope Osborne
In Dark Day in the Deep Sea, the beloved brother-and-sister duo Jack and Annie embark on another high-stakes mission through time and space. This time, the magic tree house whisks them away to a tiny, deserted island in the middle of the vast ocean. Their goal is to find one of the four secrets of happiness to help save the magician Merlin. However, their quiet arrival is quickly interrupted when they are rescued by the HMS Challenger, a ship filled with 19th-century scientists and explorers on a quest of their own—to find a legendary sea monster!
This installment is perfect for children who love marine biology, historical exploration, and magical mysteries. As Jack and Annie navigate the Victorian era of scientific discovery, they must balance their secret mission with the dangers of the deep sea. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in ocean life and those who enjoy fast-paced adventures that blend real history with fantasy elements. Parents will appreciate how Mary Pope Osborne seamlessly weaves educational facts about the ocean and historical expeditions into an engaging narrative that keeps young readers turning pages.
Highlights:
- Features a blend of historical facts about the HMS Challenger expedition and magical fantasy.
- Encourages curiosity about marine life and the natural world.
- Promotes problem-solving and teamwork between the two protagonists.
- Part of the popular Merlin Missions sub-series, offering a slightly more complex plot for growing readers.

Die drei ??? Kids - Nacht unter Wölfen
by Ulf Blanck
In "Die drei ??? Kids - Nacht unter Wölfen" erleben die drei berühmten Detektive aus Rocky Beach ein packendes Abenteuer in der Wildnis. Justus, Peter und Bob verschlägt es in einen Naturpark, wo sie nicht nur die faszinierende Welt der Wölfe kennenlernen, sondern prompt in einen neuen, mysteriösen Fall stolpern. Seltsame Ereignisse und unheimliche nächtliche Begegnungen fordern den ganzen Mut und Scharfsinn der drei Freunde heraus.
Dieses Buch ist ideal für junge Leser, die spannende Detektivgeschichten lieben und gerne miträtseln. Die Kombination aus Naturerlebnis und Krimi macht es zu einer perfekten Wahl für Kinder, die sich für Tiere und Abenteuer im Freien begeistern. Ulf Blanck versteht es meisterhaft, kindgerechte Spannung mit wichtigen Werten wie Zusammenhalt und Neugier zu verknüpfen. Es ist die perfekte Lektüre für Kinder, die bereits erste längere Geschichten selbstständig lesen möchten.
Highlights:
- Spannende Detektivarbeit für junge Spürnasen
- Faszinierende Einblicke in das Leben von Wölfen und die Natur
- Starker Fokus auf Teamgeist und unzertrennliche Freundschaft
- Leicht verständliche Sprache, ideal für Leser der 2. und 3. Klasse

Dingoes at Dinnertime
by Mary Pope Osborne
Join Jack and Annie on a thrilling journey to the Australian Outback in Dingoes at Dinnertime, part of the beloved Magic Tree House series. When the magic tree house whisks them away to the land down under, the siblings find themselves in the middle of a dangerous wildfire. This action-packed story is perfect for children who love animals and are starting to explore independent reading. Jack and Annie must use their wits and courage to save a baby kangaroo and a koala from the encroaching flames, making it an ideal choice for readers interested in nature and wildlife conservation.
As one of the most popular series for early readers, this book combines geographical facts with a fast-paced fantasy plot. It is a great choice for parents looking to build their child's reading confidence while sparking a curiosity about different parts of the world. Whether your child is a fan of the series or new to the adventures of Jack and Annie, this story offers a perfect blend of suspense and educational value that keeps young minds engaged from start to finish.
Highlights:
- Exciting adventure set in the Australian Outback
- Teaches children about wildlife and environmental challenges
- Perfect for transitioning from picture books to chapter books
- Features relatable protagonists who solve problems through teamwork

Dolphins at Daybreak
by Mary Pope Osborne
Jack and Annie are back for another whirlwind journey in Dolphins at Daybreak, the ninth installment of the beloved Magic Tree House series. This time, the magic tree house whisks the siblings away to the middle of the vast ocean, where they embark on an underwater exploration like no other. After discovering a high-tech mini-submarine on a vibrant coral reef, the duo dives deep into the sea to solve a riddle. However, the ocean depths are filled with more than just beautiful fish; Jack and Annie soon find themselves facing off against a giant octopus and a very hungry shark!
This book is perfect for children who love marine life and those who are just beginning to transition into independent reading. With its fast-paced plot and engaging illustrations, it is an ideal choice for readers interested in oceanography and animal adventures. Parents will appreciate how Mary Pope Osborne blends excitement with educational facts about the sea, making it a great choice for both classroom reading and bedtime stories.
Highlights:
- An exciting underwater adventure featuring a mini-submarine exploration.
- Encounters with fascinating sea creatures like dolphins, sharks, and octopuses.
- Encourages curiosity about the natural world and marine biology.
- Short chapters and simple vocabulary perfect for building reading confidence.

Eve of the Emperor Penguin
by Mary Pope Osborne
Join Jack and Annie on their most chilling adventure yet as they travel to the frozen continent of Antarctica! In Eve of the Emperor Penguin, the siblings are sent on a mission by the magician Merlin to find the fourth secret of happiness. This enchanting story is perfect for children who love animals and magic, offering a blend of real-world science and fantastical elements. As they navigate the barren, icy landscape, they encounter a group of scientists and a colony of majestic emperor penguins who might just hold the key to their quest.
This book is an ideal choice for readers interested in nature and polar exploration. Mary Pope Osborne expertly weaves educational facts about the Antarctic environment and penguin behavior into a fast-paced narrative that keeps young readers engaged. It is a great choice for fans of the Magic Tree House series who are ready for slightly longer, more complex Merlin Mission stories. Parents will appreciate the positive messages about curiosity, empathy for wildlife, and the pursuit of joy in unexpected places.
Highlights:
- Engaging blend of historical facts and magical fantasy elements.
- Introduces young readers to the unique ecosystem of Antarctica.
- Focuses on emotional intelligence through the search for happiness.
- Perfect for transitioning from early readers to more advanced chapter books.

Ferien auf Saltkrokan
by Astrid Lindgren
Willkommen auf Saltkrokan, der kleinen, idyllischen Insel in den schwedischen Schären! Astrid Lindgrens zeitloser Klassiker erzählt die herzerwärmende Geschichte der Familie Melchersson, die ihre Sommerferien im alten Schreinerhaus verbringt. Zwischen glitzernden Wellen, dichten Wäldern und der treuen Bernhardiner-Hündin Bootsmann erleben Pelle, Tjorven und ihre Freunde unvergessliche Abenteuer. Es ist eine Welt voller Unbeschwertheit, in der jeder Tag eine neue Entdeckung bereithält.
Dieses Buch ist perfekt für Kinder, die Geschichten über das Draußensein, echte Freundschaften und die Freiheit der Natur lieben. Eltern, die nach einer Vorlesegeschichte suchen, die Werte wie Zusammenhalt und Lebensfreude vermittelt, werden hier fündig. Ideal für Leser, die sich nach einer Auszeit vom Alltag sehnen und in eine Welt eintauchen möchten, in der die Zeit ein wenig langsamer zu gehen scheint. Ein Muss für jeden Bücherschrank!
Highlights:
- Ein zeitloser Kinderbuchklassiker von der Schöpferin von Pippi Langstrumpf.
- Wunderschöne Schilderungen der schwedischen Natur und des Insellebens.
- Liebevolle Charaktere wie die schlagfertige Tjorven und der tierliebe Pelle.
- Perfekt geeignet zum Vorlesen oder zum ersten Selberlesen längerer Geschichten.

Forest Born
by Shannon Hale
Forest Born is the enchanting fourth installment in Shannon Hale's beloved Books of Bayern series. The story follows Rin, the younger sister of Razo, who has always felt a deep, unsettling connection to the forest. Unlike her siblings, Rin struggles with a sense of "wrongness" inside her, fearing the power she feels lurking beneath the surface. When she leaves her forest home to join Queen Ani at the capital, she is swept into a dangerous journey to confront a mysterious threat that could consume the entire kingdom. This lyrical and atmospheric novel is perfect for children who love immersive world-building and complex emotional journeys.
Ideal for readers interested in stories about finding one's place in the world, Forest Born explores the thin line between light and shadow. Shannon Hale's masterful prose brings the natural world to life, making it a great choice for fans of character-driven fantasy and folklore-inspired tales. Whether your child has followed the series from The Goose Girl or is just discovering the magic of Bayern, this book offers a profound look at the courage required to face one's own fears and embrace a unique identity.
Highlights:
- A powerful coming-of-age story centered on self-acceptance and inner strength.
- Rich, lyrical writing that beautifully captures the mystery of the natural world.
- Features beloved characters from the previous Books of Bayern novels.
- Explores deep themes of power, morality, and the importance of choice.

Frightful's Mountain
by Jean Craighead George
Frightful's Mountain is a captivating survival story that continues the beloved saga of Sam Gribley and his peregrine falcon. In this installment, the focus shifts to Frightful as she is forced to navigate the wild on her own. Having been raised by a human, she must learn the essential skills of hunting, migrating, and finding a mate—tasks that do not come naturally to her. This novel is a perfect choice for children who love animals and the great outdoors, offering a unique perspective on the natural world through the eyes of a bird of prey.
Ideal for readers interested in environmental conservation and wildlife, Jean Craighead George’s writing is both educational and deeply moving. It explores the complex relationship between humans and nature, highlighting the challenges endangered species face. Fans of the My Side of the Mountain series will find this a satisfying and emotional journey that explores what it truly means to be free. It is a great choice for middle-grade readers looking for an adventure that is grounded in realistic science and heartfelt storytelling.
Highlights:
- A unique perspective told primarily from the viewpoint of a peregrine falcon.
- Richly detailed descriptions of nature, wildlife behavior, and the environment.
- Explores themes of independence, survival, and the enduring bond between humans and animals.

Good Morning, Gorillas
by Mary Pope Osborne
In Good Morning, Gorillas, the beloved siblings Jack and Annie are whisked away by the Magic Tree House to the misty mountains of Africa. Their mission is to find a special kind of magic, but they soon find themselves face-to-face with a group of mountain gorillas. While Annie quickly finds a way to bond and play with these gentle giants, Jack struggles to connect, feeling like an outsider in the wild. This heartwarming adventure explores the deep bond between humans and animals, teaching young readers about patience and observation.
This book is perfect for children who love animals and are curious about the natural world. It serves as an excellent introduction to wildlife behavior and the importance of habitat conservation, wrapped in an engaging fantasy narrative. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in nature and those who enjoy stories where bravery comes in the form of understanding and empathy. Parents will find this a great choice for building reading confidence in children transitioning to longer stories.
Highlights:
- An engaging blend of fantasy and real-world animal facts.
- Teaches valuable lessons about empathy and respecting wildlife.
- Perfect for transitioning from picture books to independent reading.
- Features the iconic duo Jack and Annie in a unique African setting.
