The 2004 Boston Globe–Horn Book Award

Summary: Dive into the unexpected world of sharks, where a swell shark inflates like a balloon and a lantern shark glows in the dark. This captivating book shatters the myth of sharks as mindless predators, revealing their diverse shapes and sizes. With engaging facts and vibrant illustrations, uncover why these fascinating creatures might be more afraid of humans than we are of them. Are you ready to challenge your perceptions and explore the mysteries of the deep blue sea?

Summary: A family reluctantly visits an art museum for Mom's birthday. Skeptical Dad and his sons question the art's value until Mom guides them to see its hidden wonders. As they explore, the boys uncover unexpected pleasures, leaving with newfound appreciation and a sketchbook. On the way home, Mom introduces a drawing game that sparks creativity, a game her son cherishes to this day. This visit transforms their view of art, except for Dad, who remains unconvinced. What will they discover in the paintings, and how will it change them?

Summary: In a snowy landscape, a boy and a girl embark on a whimsical journey with their animal neighbors—a squirrel, rabbit, deer, and bird. As snow falls and melts, they uncover the enchanting music of winter. When a lost dog joins their adventure, the rhythm of the season unfolds in unexpected ways. Can they find harmony amidst the snow's peth and drip? Join them in a tale where nature sings and every flake tells a story.

Summary: Imagine God stepping into the human world, curious about the everyday experiences He inspired. From attending beauty school to adopting a dog, His journey is a whimsical exploration of life's simple joys. As He navigates these human adventures, profound questions arise about the essence of humanity and spirituality. What insights will He gain from these ordinary yet extraordinary encounters? This tale invites readers to see the world through divine eyes, blending humor with deep reflection on what it truly means to be human. Discover the unexpected in the mundane and the spiritual in the everyday.

Summary: In a modern-day London teeming with magic, young apprentice Nathaniel seeks revenge against the arrogant wizard Simon Lovelace. Summoning the formidable djinni Bartimaeus, Nathaniel's quest spirals into a dangerous game of magical espionage and rebellion. As he attempts to control the djinni and steal the coveted Amulet of Samarkand, Nathaniel faces a whirlwind of intrigue, murder, and betrayal. Can he navigate this perilous world and outsmart his enemies, or will his thirst for vengeance consume him? Dive into a thrilling adventure where magic and mayhem collide, and nothing is as it seems.

Summary: While others walked on the moon, one astronaut orbited alone, witnessing the lunar surface from afar. Explore Michael Collins' solitary journey, his thoughts, and the meticulous preparations for this historic mission. Through a blend of photos and drawings, delve into the unseen side of space exploration and ponder what it truly means to be so close, yet so far from the moon. What did he see, and what did he leave behind? This captivating narrative invites you to experience the moon's allure through the eyes of the man who watched from above.