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by Thomas Harding; illustrated by Britta Teckentrup Whether or not you are studying Anne Frank this year, this book is not to be missed. Lyrical text and lush collage illustrations tell the story of the Anne Frank house in Amsterdam, beginning in 1580 when the marshland area was filled in for development (the house was built in 1635), and then spanning the centuries to trace the people who lived in it and what was happening at the time. The featured year is identified on each spread, and additional information at the end of the book provides more detail. Ultimately, the house became a hiding place for eight people during World War II — until they were tragically taken away, leaving behind Anne's diary (an illustration shows a Nazi soldier with a gun as the Frank family was arrested). This book provides much information to discover, ponder, and discuss. Ages 8 - 12 Anne Frank; European History; World War II; Holocaust; Dwellings |
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Clearly told and handsomely illustrated, this book tells the story of a Portuguese diplomat stationed in France during World War II, who defied his own government to grant passage to refugees fleeing to Portugal to escape the Nazis. Though his actions resulted in great sacrifices made by himself and his family, thousands of people were rescued — including painter Salvador Dalí and Margaret and H. A. Rey, authors of the Curious George books. An author's note and timeline provide context for the events described in this inspiring story. Ages 7 - 10 Biography; World War II; Refugees; Courage; Sacrifice; Justice |
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An avid bug collector when she was growing up in California, Nan found a way to weave her passion for spiders into a fascinating career. Through persistence and innovation, she taught herself how to keep spiders to extract and harvest their silk for use in survey scopes. Each and every strand had to be of the correct consistency and thickness, then carefully stored for use. When the United States entered World War II, the demand for spider silk increased as production of items that used crosshairs (such as guns, periscopes, and more) increased. Nan continued to research the best spider silk possible — even if it meant working with black widow spiders! Ages 7 - 10 Biography; Women's History; Naturalists; Amateur Scientists; Spiders; World War II |
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Soft spoken and shy, Rose Valland was a curator at the Jeu de Paume Museum in Paris, where she cared for some of the world's greatest art. When Hitler's army invaded the city in 1940, the museum staff was ordered to leave, but Rose stayed on as manager. She carefully and secretly kept records of where stolen artworks were sent (the soldiers were unaware she could speak German), ultimately saving thousands of pieces of art that would be recovered after the war. McGuire tells this little-known piece of history with clear writing, vivid artwork, and a touch of suspense. Ages 7 - 10 Biography; Women's History; World War II; Art and Museums; Courage |
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It was the autumn of 1947, and while there was now peace in war-devastated Europe, there still was not enough to eat. Wondering how to help, Drew Pearson, a journalist in Washington, D.C., came up with idea of a Friendship Train that would travel from California to New York to collect food donations. The response was amazing, as folks across the country (many of them children) raised money and gathered donations. The train grew to more than 500 boxcars. Well told, warmly illustrated, and supported with notes about the history, this uplifting book tells a tale of compassion and generosity. Ages 7 - 10 American History; World War II; Generosity; Kindness; Children Helping Others |
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It is easy to tell, from the title, that this book is not for everyone. Still, many kids will be fascinated with the wide-ranging discoveries presented in this volume published in collaboration with the British Museum. Organized by geographical area, both famous and unknown mummies are included, with detailed descriptions about clothing and condition of each find. The clear and engaging text also provides background about cultures, beliefs, and processes of preserving the dead. All examples are illustrated, not photographed, making the topic more accessible to even the slightly squeamish. Science; Anthropology; Human Burial Practices; Ancient Civilizations |
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Earthrise, a full-color photo of the Earth taken by Apollo 8 crew member Bill Anders on December 24, 1968, while orbiting the moon, became one of the most memorable and influential photographs in history. This image caused many to rethink their understanding of our planet and has been credited with inspiring the first Earh Day in 1970 and helping launch the global environmental movement. Beginning with the early days of the space race, Marcus clearly describes the technology, history, and personalities behind this epic image. Ages 10 - 14 (Teen book) Astronomy and Space; Space Exportation; Astronauts |
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The Many Problems of Rochel-Leah by Jane Yolen; illustrated by Felishia Henditirto Family stories should be told and retold. This one, according to an author's note, was inspired by a relative of Yolen's and passed down through generations as family lore. Now readers can enjoy this remarkable story set in 1830s Russia. Rochel-Leah, a young Jewish girl, lives during a time when girls were rarely taught to read, but she is determined to learn. After asking relatives for help to no avail, she eventually seeks help from the Rabbi, who provides it an unexpected way. Lovely artwork and spirited text tell a tale about persistence and a love of learning. Read this story and discuss any tales that have been passed down in your own family! Ages 5 - 9 Family Stories; Historical Fiction; Learning to Read; Persistence
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It's 1932 in Ukraine, and Zlata describes how her family's lives have changed since Communists from Russian took over the countryside. As they go from door to door collecting taxes and grain, many families hide food and valuables to survive. For her birthday, Zlata is given a blouse lovingly embroidered by her mother with the colors traditionally used in Ukraine: red for love, black for sadness. When Zlata's friend's father informs on her family, things grow worse. They survive by hanging onto what “made us Ukrainian — our language, our beliefs, our traditions." This beautifully illustrated book eloquently depicts the 1932-33 Ukrainian Famine and underscores the ways people survive hardship: "Beauty made life bearable." Maslo's note reveals her family connection to the story and provides additional background. Ages 7 - 12 Historical Fiction: Ukrainian Culture; Family Traditions; Family Stories |
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"Traditions stitch together generations with love." This wise refrain appears throughout a story about an Ojibwe family as Tatiana's nookomis (grandmother) stitches the ribbon skirts for important moments through the years: a baby cousin's naming ceremony, a fall celebration giving thanks for manoomin (wild rice); an aunt becoming a district judge, and the girl's own coming-of-age ceremony. Lyrical storytelling and sunset-hued illustrations warmly depict cultural traditions, family affection, and a special intergenerational relationship. An author's note and glossary are included. Ages 4 - 9 Grandmothers; Family Traditions; Family Stories; Native Americans |
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Accessible storytelling and colorful watercolor artwork describe how two cousins and their family eagerly prepare to take part the Jingle Dress dance, readying their dresses and other regalia, combing and braiding hair, and quelling nerves. They drive to the pow-wow grounds to connect with friends and make final preparations. When it's time to dance, the girls are reminded that they dance for those who can't. Filled with family affection, this moving tale also introduces the history of an Anishinaabe tradition that started during the 1918-191 influenza pandemic. Ages 4 - 9 Family Traditions; Family Stories; Native Americans; Dance |
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Pikes Peak Library District
P.O. Box 1579, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80901
(719) 531-6333https://ppld.org/ |
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