Lois Lowry

the Holocaust

helping others

World War II

rescues and rescuing

As the German troops begin their campaign to “relocate” all the Jews of Denmark, Annemarie Johansen’s family takes in Annemarie’s best friend, Ellen Rosen, and conceals her as part of the family.

Through the eyes of ten-year-old Annemarie, we watch as the Danish Resistance smuggles almost the entire Jewish population of Denmark, nearly seven thousand people, across the sea to Sweden. The heroism of an entire nation reminds us that there was pride and human decency in the world even during a time of terror and war.

Number the Stars

Eda Kaban

Megan Maynor

A hilarious and empowering picture book about a small but strong Viking girl who is determined to be a warrior and make a name for herself.   

Filled with humor and heart, this clever picture book about perseverance and following your dreams stars Helga, a small but mighty (and loud) Viking. Helga, along with her sidekick, Wolvie, wants to be a warrior just like her favorite hero, Ingrid the Axe. But she is a farmer’s daughter and the only battles she fights are pretend. So when Ingrid the Axe comes to town looking for new recruits, Helga jumps at the chance. She and Wolvie find the competition to be fierce. But Helga is fierce too, and single-minded in her desire to make a name for herself. After all she is a WARRIOOORRRR!

Helga Makes a Name for Herself

Hans Christian Andersen

Virginia Lee Burton

A young boy who wishes for the return of dinosaurs imagines how useful they would be.

The Emperor's New Clothes

Lori Evert

Per Breiehagen

This New York Times bestselling Nordic tale in the tradition of The Snowman, The Polar Express, and the many books of Jan Brett will have readers of all ages believing in the magic of Christmas. This is one to pull out every year and savor!

Long ago, a brave little girl named Anja wanted to be one of Santa’s elves. So she leaves a note for her family and helps her elderly neighbor prepare for the holiday, then she straps on her skis, and heads out into the snowy landscape. From a red bird to a polar bear to a reindeer, a menagerie of winter animals help Anja make her way to Santa. A generous trim-size, matte cover, extraordinary photographs, and foiled title make this a special book for the holiday season.

And don’t miss the other “Wish” books:
The Reindeer Wish
The Tiny Wish
The Brave Little Puppy 
The Puppy’s Wish – coming soon!

The Christmas Wish

Jeanette Winter

climate change

activism

Learn the story of TIME PERSON OF THE YEAR Greta Thunberg, the sixteen-year-old climate activist who has sparked a worldwide student movent and is demanding action from world leaders who refuse to address climate change–from acclaimed picture book creator Jeanette Winter. I don’t want you to be hopeful. I want you to panic…I want you to act as if our house is on fire. Because it is. When she was fifteen years old, Greta Thunberg’s teacher explained to her class that our climate is changing–the earth is getting warmer, the polar ice caps are melting, and life on earth is threatened. Greta was devastated. What could she do? If the grown-ups weren’t doing enough to save the planet, Greta would have to demand change herself. So she went on strike, skipping school every Friday to sit outside of the Swedish Parliament building with a sign that read “School Strike for Climate.” At first, Greta was the only one. But gradually, more and more students joined her, until her lone protest had sparked a worldwide student movement for action on climate change. Now, a year later, Greta is speaking to audiences of world leaders at important meetings like the United Nations Climate Conference and the World Economic Forum. She is leading the conversation on climate change and sparking worldwide conversation on how to save our planet. Greta is showing everyone that even the smallest person can make a big difference, and this picture book informs and inspires young readers who are beginning to learn about the world around them.

Our House Is on Fire: Greta Thunberg's Call to Save the Planet

Elsa Beskow

Elsa Beskow’s charming illustrations bring to life this classic Hans Christian Andersen tale of a thumb-sized girl who has big adventures. 

Thumbelina is so small she sleeps in a walnut shell bed with a rose petal sheet. One day, a toad steals her away from her home and keeps her captive on a lilypad, until some fish set her free to find her way through the countryside. 

Will Thumbelina ever find a new home among friends? 

Available in English for the first time in thirty years, this beautiful book will be a wonderful addition to the shelves of Elsa Beskow admirers everywhere.

Thumbelina

Jacqueline Morley

Journey to the frozen north for this second spellbinding anthology of Viking myths! Enter the world of Norse mythology, where you’ll find sea monsters, shape-changers, dark forests, and cunning, gold-hoarding underground dwarves. This second volume of Viking tales features more fantastical, entrancing adventures, including Thor’s journey in the land of the giants, and Ragnarok, the apocalyptic battle of the gods, retold in a way that will engage very young readers. Different illustrators bring their distinctive styles to each story.

Viking Myths: Volume Two

Jerry Pinkney

For over one hundred years The Ugly Duckling has been a childhood favorite, and Jerry Pinkney’s spectacular new adaptation brings it triumphantly to new generations of readers. With keen emotion and fresh vision, the acclaimed artist captures the essence of the tale’s timeless appeal: The journey of the awkward little bird – marching bravely through hecklers, hunters, and cruel seasons – is an unforgettable survival story; this blooming into a graceful swan is a reminder of the patience often necessary to discover true happiness. Splendid watercolors set in the lush countryside bring drama to life.

The Ugly Duckling

Astrid Lindgren

On a snowy winter night, the Tomten, a friendly house troll, guards a Swedish farm homestead, its animals, and its people from a hungry fox.

The Tomten and the Fox

Andrew Langley

David Antram

Will you survive this arduous voyage in a fragile open boat? This interactive series will enthrall young and reluctant readers by making them part of the story, inviting them to become the main character. Each book uses humorous illustrations to depict the sometimes dark and horrific side of life during important eras in history. It is the late 10th century, and you are one of a hardy band of young adventurers who plan to sail all the way from Scandinavia to Vinland in North America.

You Wouldn't Want to Be a Viking Explorer!

Francesca Simon

Charlotte Cotterill

Hack and Whack – two angelic looking Viking toddler twins – are on the attack! As they go marauding around their village, upsetting the apple carts, little do they know there is a force far more powerful than they: their mom! Can they continut their tirade, or will they face the most dreaded punishment of all….. being plunged into a cold bath!! Gloriously funny, slapstick, fast paced action from the queen of funny.

Hack and Whack

Neil Gaiman

Chris Riddell

A beautifully illustrated edition of the thrilling, wintry Nordic tale by Neil Gaiman and Chris Riddell, who together weave a truly magical story of legend and adventure that will grip and enchant readers from beginning to end. Odd, a young Viking boy, is left fatherless following a raid. In his icy, ancient world there is no mercy for an unlucky soul with a crushed foot and no one to protect him. Fleeing to the woods, Odd stumbles upon and releases a trapped bear…and then Odd’s destiny begins to change. The eagle, bear, and fox Odd encounters are Norse gods, trapped in animal form by the evil frost giant who has conquered Asgard, the city of the gods. Now our hero must reclaim Thor’s hammer, outwit the frost giants and release the gods… First published in 2009, Odd and the Frost Giants has been reimagined by acclaimed artist Chris Riddell in the style of his epic black-and-white artwork from New York Times bestselling The Sleeper and the Spindle, enhanced here with metallic silver ink.

Odd and the Frost Giants

Allen French

Rolf, a young and determined Viking bowman, faces many dangers after he vows to pursue and bring to justice the men responsible for his father’s death. Set in ancient Iceland, Allen French’s suspense-filled novel pits Christians against pagan warriors during the early years of Christianity. Brimming with exciting tales of brave men and women who led legendary lives, this thrilling tale will captivate today’s young readers just as it enthralled audiences generations ago.

The Story of Rolf: A Viking Adventure

Joe Todd-Stanton

Imagine a vault so cavernous that it could contain all the world’s greatest treasures and relics, from mummified remains of ancient monarchs to glistening swords brandished by legendary warriors. Who could be in charge of such a vault and how did he come into possession of such a unique collection? Who is…Professor Brownstone?

Arthur and the Golden Rope: Brownstone's Mythical Collection

Hans Christian Anderson

Charles Santore

The beloved tale of The Little Mermaid is faithfully reproduced in this new edition of Hans Christian Anderson’s classic. Original art by critically acclaimed New York Times bestselling illustrator Charles Santore is masterfully reproduced using the most advanced technology to bring these breathtaking illustrations to life like never before. The vivid colors and captivating spreads make this beautiful story one to be treasured in every home.

The Little Mermaid is a timeless classic that has fascinated readers young and old for many generations. The adventures of the young mermaid princess splash life across the pages of a story full of belonging, hope, love and sacrifice. This new edition embodies beautiful original artwork by Charles Santore, masterfully reproduced with the latest technology available, containing vivid colors and captivating illustrations that make every page an unrivaled masterpiece. The sharp contrast of life under the sea and on the land is captured with these magnificent depictions of the story. In reviewing the original Santore artwork, the School Library Journal wrote, “Through his clever use of contrasting palettes, the illustrations create two distinct worlds: the ethereal blues and greens of the Sea King’s undersea realm, and the sun-drenched reds and golds of the prince’s domain.” Children and adults are sure to treasure this book and all it encompasses for many years to come.

The Little Mermaid

Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara

Linzie Hunter

In this book from the critically acclaimed, mulitmillion-copy best-selling Little People, BIG DREAMS series, discover how Astrid Lindgren grew up to become one of the world’s best-loved authors, and the creator of the irresistible Pippi Longstocking.  

Little Astrid grew up on an old farm in Sweden. Her childhood was very happy, so happy that she never wanted to grow up. When she was four, her friend Edit read Astrid her first story. Suddenly, the entire place was filled with giants, witches, and fairies. They all came out from a magic object call a book. Astrid did her best to learn how to read, and once she started, she couldn’t stop! Soon, there were no books left to borrow from the library and her friends. Learn how Astrid turned her love of books and telling stories into a career as a world-renowned author. This moving book features stylish and quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of the inspiring writer’s life.  

Little People, BIG DREAMS is a best-selling series of books and educational games that explore the lives of outstanding people, from designers and artists to scientists and activists. All of them achieved incredible things, yet each began life as a child with a dream.  

This empowering series offers inspiring messages to children of all ages, in a range of formats. The board books are told in simple sentences, perfect for reading aloud to babies and toddlers. The hardcover versions present expanded stories for beginning readers. Boxed gift sets allow you to collect a selection of the books by theme. Paper dolls, learning cards, matching games, and other fun learning tools provide even more ways to make the lives of these role models accessible to children.  

Inspire the next generation of outstanding people who will change the world with Little People, BIG DREAMS!

Bernadette Watts

A beloved classic illustrated by Bernadette Watts–one of Europe’s most recognized and beloved fairy-tale artists! There is only one way the Little Mermaid can win the prince’s heart and gain an immortal soul: she must agree to the sea witch’s terrible deal–give up her voice in return for a pair of legs. But will her dream come true? Bernadette brings to new life this world-famous, unabridged fairy tale by Hans Christian Andersen–immersing the reader in the magical world beneath the sea.

Little Mermaid

Written by professional storyteller Tanya Batt and illustrated by Nicoletta Ceccoli, this book will send a tingle of excitement down your spine as you journey on a breathtaking adventure to the magical land that lies east of the sun and west of the moon. Combining the themes of three classic wonder tales - “East of the Sun, West of the Moon,” “The Black Bull of Norroway” and “The White Bear King” - this exquisite fairy tale takes its roots from the Scandinavian tradition, but its story and its message (“where there is no trust, there can be no love”) are universal.

Princess and the White Bear King

Marie McSwigan

In the bleak winter of 19 0, Nazi troops parachuted into Peter Lundstrom’s tiny Norwegian village and held it captive. Nobody thought the Nazis could be defeated–until Uncle Victor told Peter how the children could fool the enemy. It was a dangerous plan. They had to slip past Nazi guards with nine million dollars in gold hidden on their sleds. It meant risking their country’s treasure–and their lives. This classic story of how a group of children outwitted the Nazis and sent the treasure to America has captivated generations of readers.

Snow Treasure

Snow Treasure (Turtleback School & Library)

“This folkloric tale is rich with depth and tradition and full of a child’s wonder of the natural world. . . . A timeless story.” – Kirkus Reviews Christmas has come, and with it a sparkling white winterfrost. When Bettina’s parents are called away unexpectedly, leaving her in charge of the house, the farm, and baby Pia, Bettina neglects to set out the traditional bowl of Christmas rice pudding for the tiny nisse. No one besides her grandfather ever believed the nisse were real, so what harm could there be in forgetting this silly custom? But when baby Pia disappears, the magic of the nisse makes itself known. To find her sister and set things right, Bettina must venture into the miniature world of these usually helpful, but sometimes mischievous, folk.

Winterfrost

Ilon Wikland

Welcome to Noisy Village! Well, it s not really quite what it sounds. Lisa, who tells the story, lives on Middle Farm with her parents and two brothers, Karl and Bill. Britta and Anna live at North Farm and Olaf and Kerstin live at South Farm. It is because the houses are right next door to each other in a clump as they liked to do these things in rural Sweden years ago, and because the children make so much racket that the farmhouses came to be so honestly and happily named. A large linden tree grows between Middle and South Farms and so the boys in the two houses visit each other by climbing through the branches even the girls do it sometimes, like the night they all waited for Olaf to go to sleep so that they could pull out his loose tooth without his knowing it! That is only one of the many escapades designed to make readers young and old wish they could step right into the pages of this little book. Join the fun in this companion volume to The Children of Noisy Village (published by Viking Penguin). Illustrated with delightful line drawings by Ilon Wikland; translated by Florence Lamborn.”

Happy Times in Noisy Village

Terry Jones

Michael Foreman

A special 30th anniversary edition of the classic tale of high-seas adventureJoin Erik and the crew of The Golden Dragon on their journey as they go in search of adventure in “the land where the sun goes at night.” Along the way their courage, skill, strength, stamina, and wit will be tested to the extremes. In the tradition of the great Norse sagas, this book was commended for a Greenaway Medal upon its publication in 1983, and was the basis of a 1989 fantasy film directed by Terry Jones and starring Tim Robbins.

The Saga of Erik the Viking

These 35 folk tales have been gathered from Peter Christen Asbjørnsen and Jørgen Moe’s landmark nineteenth-century collections, acclaimed by Jacob Grimm for their freshness and a fullness that surpass nearly all others. In this sparkling translation by Pat Shaw and Carl Norman, accompanied by a selection of the magnificent original illustrations of Erik Werenskiold and Theodor Kittelsen, are captivating stories of witches, trolls, and ogres; sly foxes and mysterious bears; beautiful princesses and country lads-turned-heroes that brim with the matchless vitality and power of their original telling. Translated by Pat Shaw and Carl NormanWith black-and-white illustrations throughoutPart of the Pantheon Fairy Tale and Folklore Library

Norwegian Folk Tales

Russell Freedman

William Low

Newbery Medalist Freedman explores the mystery of the sinking of the great Swedish warship, the “Vasa, “ on her maiden voyage in 1628, and her resurrection from the seas centuries later. Full color.

The Sinking of the Vasa

Tove Jansson

Moominmamma and young Moomintroll search for the long lost Moominpappa through forest and flood, meeting a little creature (an early Sniff) and the elegantly strange Tulippa along the way.

The Moomins and the Great Flood

Susan Fletcher

human-animal relationships

runaways

freedom

A runaway boy befriends a polar bear that’s being transported from Norway to London in this lyrical and timeless adventure story about freedom, captivity, and finding a family. The polar bear is a royal bear, a gift from the King of Norway to the King of England. The first time Arthur encounters the bear, he is shoved in her cage as payback for stealing food. Restless and deadly, the bear terrifies him. Yet, strangely, she doesn’t harm him—though she has attacked anyone else who comes near. That makes Arthur valuable to the doctor in charge of getting the bear safely to London. So Arthur, who has run away from home, finds himself taking care of a polar bear on a ship to England. Tasked with feeding and cleaning up after the bear, Arthur’s fears slowly lessen as he begins to feel a connection to this bear, who like him, has been cut off from her family. But the journey holds many dangers, and Arthur knows his own freedom—perhaps even his life—depends on keeping the bear from harm. When pirates attack and the ship founders, Arthur must make a choice—does he do everything he can to save himself, or does he help the bear to find freedom? Based on the real story of a polar bear that lived in the Tower of London, this timeless adventure story is also a touching account of the bond between a boy and a bear.

Journey of the Pale Bear

The story that was the inspiration for The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis and more recently, Frozen by Disney is re-designed in celebration of 50 years of working with Bernadette Watts—one of Europe’s most recognized and beloved fairy-tale artists, known in Europe simply as Bernadette.

When a young boy is cursed and unable to detect goodness, a young girl goes on a courageous journey to restore his heart and free him from the palace of the Snow Queen.

Stunning illustrations bring new life to this lasting piece of literature that has thrilled young readers for over a century.

The Snow Queen

Tommy and Annika have a new neighbor: red-haired, freckle-faced Pippi Longstocking, who has upside-down braids and no parents to tell her what to do. The three children have the most rollicking adventures on their own, with horses and monkeys, the circus, and more!

Pippi Longstocking

Nora Surojegin

Pirkko-Liisa Surojegin

Otto, an elfin adventurer, finds a postcard on the seashore showing pictures of beautiful sparkling lights in the night sky with the words, “The light of Christmas!” Otto decides he must find this brightness. So he heads north, trudging through the dark forests and skiing towards the fells of Lapland, in search of the secret light of Christmas.

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