Fiction Adventure Cassettes The Big Wander RC 37687 by Will Hobbs read by Phil Regensdorf 2 cassettes It's 1962. Kennedy is president, and Clay, fourteen, and his big brother, Mike, are on their last "Big Wander" before Mike leaves for college. They've traveled from Seattle to the Southwest where they are exploring the countryside and searching for their cowboy uncle. When their truck is stolen, Mike, who is pining for his girlfriend, gives up and goes home. But Clay is determined to continue the search. For grades 5-8 and older readers. 1992. Coast to Coast RC 37070 by Betsy Byars read by Ardyth Heller 1 cassette From South Carolina to California, thirteen-year-old Birch and her grandfather, Pop, fly his beloved Piper J-3 Cub, a small plane with two seats, one behind the other. Their adventures across rivers, plains, mountains, and deserts take them many days. They encounter turbulent weather and other difficulties, and gain a whole new view of the earth and of themselves. For grades 5-8. 1992. Coffin on a Case RC 38015 by Eve Bunting read by Gregory Gorton 1 cassette Sixteen-year-old Lily Larson is searching for her mother, and she doesn't want to go to the police for help. Henry Coffin, the twelve-year-old son of a private investigator who's away on a business trip, agrees to take the case. Henry musters all his wit for what becomes a very dangerous ordeal. For grades 3-6. 1992. The Cookcamp RC 37370 by Gary Paulsen read by Michael Kramer 1 cassette 1944. A young boy travels alone on the train from Chicago to northern Minnesota to stay with his Norwegian grandmother, who is the cook for a crew of road builders. The boy's father is a soldier, and his mother has brought home a man she says is an uncle--but the boy knows better. Grandmother shows him how to help her in the cook trailer, and the large, loud men take him on their huge road-building machines. For grades 5-8 and older readers. 1991. Downriver RC 36801 by Will Hobbs read by Ilona Dulaski 1 cassette Jessie, fifteen, is one of eight troubled teens participating in a nine-week outdoor survival education program dubbed by the kids as "Hoods in the Woods." The purpose of the program is to put the kids in life-threatening situations that they work together to resolve. But the real challenges start when the group, led by charismatic Troy Larsen, decides to ditch the counselor and run the white water of the Grand Canyon. For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1991. Goodbye, Vietnam RC 36496 by Gloria Whelan read by Janis Gray 1 cassette Because the grandmother faces arrest in contemporary Vietnam for following the old religion and practicing healing, the Vinh family decides to flee their village in the Mekong Delta and escape by sea to Hong Kong. The father, with his skills as a mechanic, secures the family's passage on a small boat. Mai, thirteen, tells of her family's odyssey. For grades 4-7 and older readers. 1992. Grab Hands and Run RC 36866 by Frances Temple read by Ed Blake 1 cassette Felipe, twelve, and Romy, his eight-year-old sister, live in El Salvador, a nation in the grip of a civil war. They live with constant worry, compounded by their father Jacinto's involvement as a political activist. When Jacinto turns up missing, Felipe, Romy, and their mother, Paloma, follow Jacinto's oft-spoken instructions to "grab hands and run" all the way to freedom in Canada. For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1993. The Great American Elephant Chase RC 36814 by Gillian Cross read by Ilona Dulaski 2 cassettes America, 1881. Fifteen-year-old Tad Hawkins, a lonely orphan, is thrilled when showman and huckster Michael Keenan brings an elephant named Khush to town, and hires him to care for Khush. When Keenan is killed in a railway accident, his daughter, Cissie, persuades Tad to help her take Khush across the country to Nebraska. Tad and Cissie are pursued by two unsavory characters who claim they bought the elephant before Keenan died. For grades 5-8 and older readers. 1992. Jocasta Carr, Movie Star RC 36347 by Roy Gerrard read by Laura Giannarelli 1 cassette A humorous, fun-filled adventure told in rhyme of the famous movie star Jocasta Carr and her sheep-dog Belle, who is also a star. When Belle is kidnapped, Jocasta soon suspects the villainous film producer Maxwell Pym, who had tried to buy Belle. Jocasta follows Pym to London, and passes through Paris and Istanbul. She will stop at nothing in her efforts to rescue Belle. For grades 2-4 and older readers. 1992. King of the Cloud Forests RC 35733 by Michael Morpurgo read by J.P. Linton 1 cassette While journeying across the Himalayas to India to escape the Japanese invasion of China, fourteen-year-old Ashley Anderson, the son of American missionaries, is separated from his companion, Uncle Sung. He is rescued by the yeti, near-humans who revere him as a messiah. Ashley must choose between returning to the violence of the village he fled and the tests of courage that await him as the tribe's god. For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1987. Mossflower RC 36489 by Brian Jacques read by David Palmer 3 cassettes Long before the building of Redwall Abbey, the inhabitants of Mossflower are under the cruel domination of Tsarmina, a brutal, tyrannical wildcat. With the arrival of a mouse named Martin the Warrior, the woodland creatures muster the courage and fortitude to band together to break Tsarmina's stronghold and rout her army of weasels, foxes, and stoats. Prequel to Redwall (RC 29729). For grades 5-8. 1988. Ransom RC 38053 by Lois Duncan read by Michele Schaeffer 1 cassette (Reissue) Five very different teenagers, kidnapped on a school bus, react to their situation in various ways but work together to escape. In the process, they learn a great deal about themselves. For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1966. Stinker's Return RC 36488 by Pamela F. Service read by Madelyn Buzzard 1 cassette Alien Tsynq Yr, a.k.a. Stinker, returns to earth (still inhabiting the body of a skunk) and again engages the assistance of Jonathan and Karen. This time Stinker must locate a suitably "earthly" souvenir for the High Gyrn of Twak in order to prevent interplanetary warfare. The trio zip to Washington, D.C., where they scour the museums in search of the perfect gift. Sequel to Stinker from Space (RC 35275). For grades 3-6 and older readers. 1993. Timothy of the Cay RC 37644 by Theodore Taylor read by John Stratton 1 cassette In this companion to The Cay (RC 34450), we learn what has happened to Phillip since his rescue from a Caribbean island, where as a twelve-year-old white boy blinded by a blow on the head he had been stranded with Timothy, an elderly, black deckhand. We also learn of Timothy's life and of his adventures at sea since his days as a young cabin boy. For grades 5-8 and older readers. 1993. The Tin Princess RC 39169 by Philip Pullman read by Lisette Lecat 2 cassettes In 1882, ten years after Adelaide, Mrs. Holland's maid in The Ruby in the Smoke (RC 27311), disappears, detective Jim Taylor tracks her down. Beautiful, illiterate Adelaide, twenty-two, has secretly married Prince Rudolf of Razkavia. When his brother is shot, the two return to Razkavia with Taylor and Becky, Adelaide's interpreter. The king dies, Rudolph is crowned then assassinated, and Adelaide becomes queen. For junior and senior high readers. 1994. Toughboy and Sister RC 36668 by Kirkpatrick Hill read by Catherine Byers 1 cassette Toughboy and Sister leave their Athabascan Indian village to spend the summer with their father at the family's summer fishing camp near the Yukon River. Since their mother's death, their father has been drinking heavily. Leaving them to set up camp, their father goes off in the boat, gets drunk, and dies, leaving the children marooned with only their dog. Slowly, with many mistakes, they begin to work together to survive. For grades 3-6 and older readers. 1990. Braille Adam of the Road BR 9192 by Elizabeth Janet Gray 2 volumes Tale of a minstrel boy, Adam, who wanders through southeastern England in the thirteenth century. Adam's adventures in search of his beloved father and his lost dog lead him to London, Winchester, and Oxford. For grades 4-7. Newbery Medal. 1942. Banner in the Sky BR 9203 by James Ramsey Ullman 2 volumes The people of the Alpine villages say that no one will ever conquer the greatest mountain in Switzerland. Nevertheless, young Rudi Matt, whose father lost his life to the peak, joins an expedition to do what no one else has ever done. An authentic adventure based on the original ascent of the Matterhorn. For grades 5-8. Newbery Medal. 1954. Bless the Beasts and Children BR 9261 by Glendon Fred Swarthout 1 volume Six boys, neglected and scarred as a result of absentee parents or broken homes, become outcasts at an expensive summer camp in the canyon country of Arizona. Together they set out to rescue a group of doomed buffalo, a mission that takes on dangerous proportions. For junior and senior high and older readers. 1970. Naya Nuki: Girl Who Ran BR 9222 by Kenneth Thomasma 1 volume Naya Nuki, an eleven-year-old Shoshoni Indian, is taken captive and enslaved by a rival Native American tribe. Escaping to the woods, she lives off the land for a month and treks 1,000 miles back to her Shoshoni camp. For grades 5-8. 1983. Pippi Goes on Board BR 9697 by Astrid Lindgren 1 volume More absurd adventures of the exuberant Pippi Longstocking including her purchase and consumption of thirty-six pounds of candy, the rescue of an exhausted horse, and the defeat of the village bully. For grades 3-6. 1957. Ransom BR 9545 by Lois Duncan 1 volume Five very different teenagers, kidnapped on a school bus, react to their situation in various ways but work together to escape. In the process, they learn a great deal about themselves. For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1966. The Sign of the Beaver BR 9513 by Elizabeth George Speare 1 volume Left alone for months to guard his family's wilderness home in eighteenth-century Maine, Matt doubts that he can survive until a resourceful Indian boy befriends him and teaches him how to live in the forest. For grades 5-8 and older readers. 1983. Timothy of the Cay BR 9509 by Theodore Taylor 1 volume In this companion to The Cay (BR 8750), we learn what has happened to Phillip since his rescue from a Caribbean island where as a twelve-year-old white boy blinded by a blow on the head, he had been stranded with Timothy, an elderly black deckhand. We also learn of Timothy's life and of his adventures at sea since his days as a young cabin boy. For grades 5-8 and older readers. 1993. White Fang BR 9693 by Jack London 1 volume A wolf-dog, rescued from danger and tamed by a kind master, redeems his brute nature by defending his master's family against an escaped convict. For junior and senior high and older readers. 1905. Animals Cassettes Bently and Egg RC 36650 by William Joyce read by John Horton 1 cassette Bently, a shy, singing frog, would do anything for his best friend Kack Kack the duck--even take care of her silly egg while she goes to visit her sister. From boredom, Bently, who also likes to draw, paints the egg beautifully, and it is immediately snatched by a horrid boy who mistakes it for an Easter egg. Bently, determined to rescue the egg, goes on a daring mission to the nearby house. For grades K-3. 1992. Berlioz the Bear RC 36455 by Jan Brett read by Bob Askey 1 cassette Berlioz is very worried. He plays the double bass in the orchestra, and he's been practicing for weeks for the village's gala ball. Now there is a strange buzz coming from his bass. Zum, zum, buzz. Zum, zum, buzz. Berlioz is so worried that he fails to see a hole in the road until the front wheel of his wagon becomes firmly stuck. The mule refuses to budge. But just in the nick of time, the buzz in Berlioz's bass saves the day. For preschool-grade 2. 1991. The Cuckoo Child RC 38265 by Dick King-Smith read by Barrett Whitener 1 cassette Jack Daw has always loved birds. When his class visits Wildlife Park and he sees an ostrich for the first time, Jack is fascinated by the huge bird. He steals an ostrich egg marked for snake food. At home, Jack slips his prize under an unsuspecting goose and, forty-one days later, Oliver hatches. Although his surrogate parents are confused by his odd appearance, Oliver soon becomes the pride and joy of his goose mother and Jack. For grades 3-6. 1993. Dial-a-Croc RC 36642 by Mike Dumbleton read by Catherine Byers 1 cassette With a brilliant idea for making money, Vanessa sets out with a bullwhip and net to find a crocodile. Once he is netted, she gives the reptile the choice of becoming a slew of handbags and shoes or helping her make lots of money. He chooses the latter and becomes Dial-a-Croc. They make money at the House of Horrors, in ice crushing, and at numerous other schemes. But fame and fortune can't keep Dial-a-Croc from becoming homesick. For grades K-3. 1991. Doctor De Soto Goes to Africa RC 38143 by William Steig read by John Horton 1 cassette Doctor Bernard De Soto is a humdinger of a dentist, known worldwide for his marvelous work that his wife, Deborah, assists him with. So, it is no surprise when they receive a cablegram from an elephant in Africa who has an excruciating toothache. They leave right away, but before they can help poor Mudambo, they are kidnapped by a monkey who is angry with him. Sequel to Doctor De Soto (RC 39061). For grades K-3. 1992. Don't Be Afraid, Amanda RC 36340 by Lilian Moore read by Yvonne Fair Tessler 1 cassette In this sequel to I'll Meet You at the Cucumbers (RC 29490), it's Amanda's turn to muster the courage to leave her familiar surroundings--the city--to visit her friend Adam, the poet, in the country. In an event-filled day, Amanda discovers the special pleasures and dangers of country living. For grades 2-4. 1992. Dragon's Fat Cat: Dragon's Fourth Tale RC 38109 by Dav Pilkey read by Bruce Huntey 1 cassette Dragon rescues a fat cat from a freezing, snowy night and names her Cat. Dragon enjoys living with Cat, but he does not know how to train Cat, or what to do about that smelly problem, or even what to feed Cat (who soon presents Dragon with a very special surprise). For preschool-grade 2. 1992. Feathers and Tails: Animal Fables from around the World RC 38034 retold by David Kherdian read by Laura Giannarelli 1 cassette A collection of animal fables, folktales, and proverbs from a wide variety of sources. Includes "Crane Woos Heron" (Russian), "Anansi Rides Tiger" (West African), "Monkey" (Chinese), and "The Stolen Moon" (Kutchin Indian). For grades 2-4 and older readers. 1992. Figment, Your Dog, Speaking RC 38187 by Laura Hawkins read by Madelyn Buzzard 1 cassette Fourth-grader Marcella Starbuckle is one great big liar. Marcella doesn't tell little bitty fibs; Marcella tells great big whoppers, and she does it to get attention--from her parents, her teacher, and her classmates. But no one seems to really like Marcella until she meets and befriends Figment, a stray dog who talks to her. For grades 3-6. 1991. Forest RC 38555 by Janet Taylor Lisle read by Nona Pipes 1 cassette The residents of Upper and Lower Forest live parallel, peaceful lives until Amber Padgett, a twelve-year-old human, unknowingly trespasses on squirrel territory when building a hideout in a tree. As the "mink-tails" assemble to discuss the invasion, Amber's father launches a "search-and-destroy" mission. Caught in the middle are Amber, her brother Wendell, and two squirrels, Woodbine and Brown Nut. For grades 4-7 and older readers. 1993. Julius RC 38526 by Angela Johnson read by Gail Nelson 1 cassette Maya has a grandfather who lives in Alabama and spends his winters in Alaska. On one of his visits, Granddaddy brings a huge crate. Maya hopes that it holds a horse or a brother, but inside is Julius, a big Alaskan pig. Maya and Julius have a super time as they learn to have fun and to share. For preschool-grade 2. 1993. Listen to the Nightingale RC 38271 by Rumer Godden read by Lynn Schrichte 1 cassette Ten-year-old Lottie has been raised by her aunt, who is the wardrobe mistress for Madame Holbein's ballet company. Lottie's entire life centers on ballet. Dancing since she was four, Lottie now has the opportunity to try out for the prestigious Queen's Chase. When an attempted robbery at a pet shop leaves her in possession of a puppy, Prince, her love for the dog soon takes precedence over all else. For grades 3-6 and older readers. 1992. The Missing 'Gator of Gumbo Limbo: An Ecological Mystery RC 37005 by Jean Craighead George read by Susan McInerney 1 cassette In a secluded part of the Florida Everglades live a homeless, abused mother who has escaped her husband's violence; her daughter, Liza K.; and a twelve-foot-long alligator. A few other homeless individuals also share this lovely habitat--until Dajun, the harmless 'gator, frightens the new condominium dwellers nearby. Officials order Dajun's extermination, but Liza K. and her band hope to find him first. For grades 5-8. 1992. Mossflower RC 36489 by Brian Jacques read by David Palmer 3 cassettes Long before the building of Redwall Abbey, the inhabitants of Mossflower are under the cruel domination of Tsarmina, a brutal, tyrannical wildcat. With the arrival of a mouse named Martin the Warrior, the woodland creatures muster the courage and fortitude to band together to break Tsarmina's stronghold and rout her army of weasels, foxes, and stoats. Prequel to Redwall (RC 29729). For grades 5-8. 1988. Rats on the Range and Other Stories RC 39264 by James Marshall read by Laura Giannarelli 1 cassette Eight humorous stories about an unusual assortment of animals including a rat family that vacations at a dude ranch owned by rat terriers, a mouse who is the housekeeper for a tomcat, and a buzzard who may or may not leave his money to the Society for Stray Cats. Companion to Rats on the Roof and Other Stories (RC 35447). For grades 2-4 and older readers. 1993. Return to Howliday Inn RC 36904 by James Howe read by Virginia Kearns 1 cassette Much to their chagrin, Chester, Harold, and Howie find themselves en route to Chateau Bow-Wow, the boarding kennel that Chester has named Howliday Inn, while their family goes on vacation. The current residents include a melancholy Great Dane named Hamlet, two street-wise cats called Felony and Miss Demeanor, a hymn-singing weasel, and a couple of yuppie dogs. Companion to Howliday Inn (RC 21194). For grades 3-6 and older readers. 1992. Sophie Hits Six RC 39334 by Dick King-Smith read by Pam Ward 1 cassette Tom, the stray cat that Sophie adopted in Sophie's Tom (RC 39333), has given birth to kittens, so Sophie must find a new name for her. She also enlists the help of her twin older brothers in winning a ribbon at field day. For her sixth birthday, Sophie, who wants to be a farmer, gets a pet rabbit from her Aunt Al and makes a new friend who actually lives on a farm. For grades K-3. 1991. Sophie's Tom RC 39333 by Dick King-Smith read by Pam Ward 1 cassette Sophie wakes up early on the morning of her fifth birthday, which also happens to be Christmas. Sophie, who is small but very determined, has declared that she will become a farmer, and her gifts include a toy farm. Delighted with the presents, Sophie nevertheless wants a real animal, a pet, to care for, but her parents will not allow it. When Sophie finds a stray cat in her yard, she resolves to find a way to keep it. For grades K-3. 1991. The Soul of the Silver Dog RC 37893 by Lynn Hall read by Nona Pipes 1 cassette From the moment that they met, Cory sensed a special bond with Sterling, the champion show Bedlington terrier, who is now blind. Cory understands loss because of the death of her sister and the subsequent divorce of her parents, and knows that Sterling can regain his championship glory. She will train him for the agility competition. For grades 6-9. 1992. Stories from Firefly Island RC 39406 by Benedict Blathwayt read by John Stratton 1 cassette On Firefly Island--a beautiful place with blue seas, shady woods, cold mountains, and a beach--the animals gather together to hear local legends told by their wise, elderly leader, Tortoise. Each of these ten tales focuses on a different creature. Included are an explanation for why frogs croak at night and a tale of the nearly disastrous fate of a young porcupine who accepts a dare to climb the forbidden Snake Tree. For grades 2-4 and older readers. 1992. Stories to Tell a Cat RC 39095 retold by Alvin Schwartz read by Bob Askey 1 cassette A collection of cat tales and poems mined from folklore around the world. Included are stories of monster cats, brave cats, magical cats, and foolish cats. The book also includes revealing source notes for the selections. For grades 3-6 and older readers. 1992. Thank You, Santa RC 36419 by Margaret Wild read by Kerry Cundiff 1 cassette Although many children write to Santa before Christmas, not too many write afterwards. Samantha, who lives in Australia, becomes Santa's pen pal, and they correspond throughout the entire year. Through their letters Samantha broadens her knowledge of polar animals. For grades K-3 and older readers. 1991. The Wainscott Weasel RC 38518 by Tor Seidler read by John Horton 1 cassette The weasels in Wainscott Woods are in love. Zeke Whitebelly loves Wendy Blackish; and Bagley Brown Jr., the son of a famous father and Wainscott Woods' most eccentric resident, is deeply in love and obsessed with Bridget, a silver fish. But Bridget believes that "fish are meant for fish" and spurns his love. Bagley nevertheless vows to save Bridget and the other inhabitants of the pond from drought and the preying osprey. For grades 3-6. 1993. The Whale's Song RC 36812 by Dyan Sheldon read by Ilona Dulaski 1 cassette "Once upon a time, the ocean was filled with whales," begins Lilly's grandmother. She tells Lilly of how, once or twice, in response to a special gift, they swam in and sang for her. Lilly's great-uncle Frederick stomps into the room to say that it didn't happen, that whales are valued for their bodies and bones. But Lilly believes, and longs to hear the whales herself. For grades K-3. 1990. The Year of the Panda RC 36110 by Miriam Schlein read by Barbara Rappaport 1 cassette Lu Yi, age ten, awakens to the sound of strange voices. Men from the government are asking his father to sell the farm--land owned by Lu Yi's family for generations. Then something even stranger happens. Lu Yi finds an orphaned baby giant panda, or daxiong mao, and nurses it back to health. In the process, Lu Yi and his fellow villagers learn of the Chinese government's attempts to save this endangered species. For grades 2-4 and older readers. 1990. Zinnia and Dot RC 36303 by Lisa Campbell Ernst read by Catherine Byers 1 cassette Zinnia and Dot, two vain hens who share an old chicken coop, do not get along. They rarely speak, and when they do, it is to argue and bicker about whose eggs are the most beautiful and whose chicks will be the most gorgeous. When a weasel steals all but one egg and later threatens to take that one also, the two hens come to know the meaning of sharing and friendship. For grades K-3. 1992. Braille The Case of the Vampire Cat BR 9587 by John R. Erickson 1 volume Hank the Cowdog, with his characteristic humor, tells a "double-scary story" of being lost and abandoned in Picket Canyon in his search to solve the mystery of the vampire cat, Mary D. A Hank the Cowdog book. For grades 3-6 and older readers. 1993. Doctor De Soto Goes to Africa BR 9506 by William Steig 1 volume Doctor Bernard De Soto is a humdinger of a dentist, known worldwide for his marvelous work that his wife, Deborah, assists him with. So, it is no surprise when they receive a cablegram from an elephant in Africa who has an excruciating toothache. They leave right away, but before they can help poor Mudambo, they are kidnapped by a monkey who is angry with him. Sequel to Doctor De Soto (BR 5462). For grades K-3. 1992. Fables BR 9914 by Arnold Lobel 1 volume Twenty original fables featuring an array of animal characters from kangaroos to crocodiles. PRINT/BRAILLE. For grades K-3 and older readers. Caldecott Medal. 1980. Fishing at Long Pond BR 8964 by William T. and Lindsay Barrett George 1 volume Katie and her grandfather are in for a delightful day of fishing on Long Pond. They won't be using worms today because they are fishing for bass, Katie's first. They pass by beautiful wildflowers, an old beaver lodge, and two deer who've come for an afternoon drink. An osprey is also out fishing, and a large Canada goose gets all riled up when their boat gets too close to his nest. PRINT/BRAILLE. For grades K-3. 1991. The Good Luck Pony BR 9425 by Elizabeth Koda-Callan 1 volume There was once a little girl who wanted, more than anything, to be able to ride and jump a pony. After only a few lessons, however, she lost control of her pony and had a frightful experience. Her mother gave her a necklace and charm that she called "the good luck pony." After many months of hard work, the girl learned to ride and jump, and that her own efforts had brought her good luck. For grades 2-4. 1990. Native American Animal Stories BR 9415 retold by Joseph Bruchac 1 volume A collection of twenty-four animal stories from various native North American cultures. The foreword and introduction are valuable for understanding the messages of the stories. A glossary of key words and descriptions of tribal nations represented in the anthology are also included. For grades 5-8. 1992. The Rainbow Fish BR 8974 by Marcus Pfister 1 volume The Rainbow Fish has shining, shimmering scales that make him the most beautiful fish in the ocean. Vain and selfish, the Rainbow Fish will not play with the other fish or share a scale with the little blue fish. Soon all of the other fish refuse to have anything to do with the Rainbow Fish. A wise octopus advises him to learn to share his scales, for what he will lose in beauty he will gain in happiness. PRINT/BRAILLE. For preschool-grade 2. 1992. Rats on the Range and Other Stories BR 9791 by James Marshall 1 volume Eight humorous stories about an unusual assortment of animals including a rat family that vacations at a dude ranch owned by rat terriers, a mouse who is the housekeeper for a tomcat, and a buzzard who may or may not leave his money to the Society for Stray Cats. Companion to Rats on the Roof and Other Stories (BR 8896). For grades 2-4 and older readers. 1993. Return to Howliday Inn BR 9196 by James Howe 1 volume Much to their chagrin, Chester, Harold, and Howie find themselves en route to Chateau Bow-Wow, the boarding kennel that Chester has named Howliday Inn, while their family goes on vacation. The current residents include a melancholy Great Dane named Hamlet, two street-wise cats called Felony and Miss Demeanor, a hymn-singing weasel, and a couple of yuppie dogs. Companion to Howliday Inn (BR 5752). For grades 3-6 and older readers. 1992. Spoonbill Swamp BR 8976 by Brenda Z. Guiberson 1 volume Although the American alligator and the roseate spoonbill are very different animals indeed, they do share similarities. They both live in the swamp, build nests, lay and guard eggs, care for their babies, and heed the babies' cries. The spoonbills work as a couple, while the female alligator handles tasks on her own. The author depicts a typical day with a family of spoonbills and a family of alligators. PRINT/BRAILLE. For grades K-3. 1992. Thunderhoof BR 9922 by Syd Hoff 1 volume The story of how Thunderhoof, the last great horse to run wild out west, lets himself be tamed. PRINT/BRAILLE. For preschool-grade 2 to share with older readers. 1971. Blindness and Physical Handicaps Cassettes Because She's My Friend RC 39085 by Harriet Sirof read by Martha Harmon Pardee 1 cassette Teresa D'Angelo, fourteen, from a large, supportive blue-collar family, meets Valerie Ross, a member of New York's upper crust, at the hospital where Teresa is working as a summer volunteer. Valerie, brassy and glamorous, has been partially paralyzed from a freak accident. Valerie helps foster Teresa's self-confidence, and Teresa rescues Valerie from depression during their brief, bittersweet friendship. For grades 5-8 and older readers. 1993. Crazy Lady! RC 37956 by Jane Leslie Conly read by Phil Regensdorf 1 cassette Vernon Dibbs, still grieving over the death of his mother and barely noticed by his overworked father, is about to flunk the seventh grade. In his poor Baltimore neighborhood, he joins his friends in harassing Maxine, an alcoholic dubbed the "crazy lady," and her son, who is mentally retarded. But in exchange for tutoring from a retired teacher, Vernon begins to help and to grow fond of Maxine and Ronald. For grades 5-8 and older readers. 1993. Freak the Mighty RC 38800 by Rodman Philbrick read by Bruce Huntey 1 cassette Maxwell Kane, a large, lumbering eighth-grader who calls himself a "butthead goon," has lived with his grandparents since his dad's imprisonment for killing his mom. Mean-spirited schoolmates and special ed have left him totally unprepared for a friendship with Kevin, who calls himself "Freak," a genius with a birth defect that has left his body small and weak. Through genuine comradery, the two become "Freak the Mighty." For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1993. The Gift of the Girl Who Couldn't Hear RC 36215 by Susan Shreve read by Kimberly Schraf 1 cassette Eliza Westfield, always popular and a good student, reaches thirteen and, in her own words, "turns unpretty and unsmart and mean." She refuses to try out for the lead in Annie, the school musical, despite her talent and her dream of starring in the annual "big event." Her best friend Lucy, who is deaf, is eager for a part and Eliza agrees to coach her. Lucy's courage and determination help Eliza to accept herself. For grades 5-7 and older readers. 1991. The Half Child RC 36577 by Kathleen Hersom read by Laura Giannarelli 1 cassette Looking back more than fifty years later, Lucy Watson describes the little sister that only she loved, "our Sarah," who was born in seventeenth-century Yorkshire when Lucy was six. Slow of speech and ungainly in movement, Sarah is shunned as a changeling--a child the fairies left in place of a human baby. When Sarah disappears, only Lucy believes that the small child has simply wandered off and might still be alive. For grades 5-8 and older readers. 1989. Hero of Lesser Causes RC 38460 by Julie Johnston read by Madelyn Buzzard 2 cassettes Twelve-year-old Keely Connor loves a challenge and is carefree and adventurous in her daily life in 1946 Canada. She faces a bigger challenge than she could have ever imagined, however, when her gifted older brother, Patrick, is paralyzed with polio and loses interest in living. Keely takes on the cause of healing Patrick's broken spirit and renewing his zest for life. For grades 5-8 and older readers. 1992. Lester's Dog RC 38552 by Karen Hesse read by Michael Pinney 1 cassette On summer days after dinner when the narrator's mom shoos him out of the house, he waits on the front stoop for his friend, Corey, to come by. Corey is hearing-impaired and stubborn too, and today he is intent on walking past neighbor Lester's dog. That dog left a scar on the narrator's nose when he was six, and he is afraid. But Corey is on a mission to rescue an abandoned kitten--a mission that gives the narrator newfound courage. For grades K-3. 1993. Lizard RC 37071 by Dennis Covington read by Larry Shapiro 1 cassette They call him Lizard because of his facial deformities and his solitary nature. When Miss Cooley, Lizard's guardian, leaves to get married, she ships him to a state school for mentally retarded boys in Louisiana. There he meets a traveling actor named Callahan who pretends to be his father. And Lizard is spirited away from the school to play Caliban in Shakespeare's The Tempest. Strong language. For junior and senior high and older readers. 1991. Matthew Pinkowski's Special Summer RC 36477 by Patrick Quinn read by Michael Kramer 1 cassette Matthew Pinkowski, thirteen, has always loved summers, and the first summer in his new hometown proves to be a great one. Matthew rescues a neighborhood boy from a runaway car and is declared a hero! He and Tommy, who, like Matthew, has a learning disability, become fast friends, along with Tommy's sister, Sandy, and Laura, who is deaf and is visiting relatives for the summer. Together they enjoy a host of adventures. For grades 4-7. 1991. Timothy of the Cay RC 37644 by Theodore Taylor read by John Stratton 1 cassette In this companion to The Cay (RC 34450), we learn what has happened to Phillip since his rescue from a Caribbean island, where as a twelve-year-old white boy blinded by a blow on the head he had been stranded with Timothy, an elderly, black deckhand. We also learn of Timothy's life and of his adventures at sea since his days as a young cabin boy. For grades 5-8 and older readers. 1993. The Vicar of Nibbleswicke RC 37941 by Roald Dahl read by Jennifer Mendenhall 1 cassette Robert Lee had dyslexia as a child. But, guided by some very good teachers, he largely overcame this disability. Then Robert Lee became Reverend Lee and received his first important job--as vicar of Nibbleswicke. Anxiety triggered a peculiar problem related to his old dyslexia--he would say backwards the most important words in the sentence: hence, God became dog--not a good thing for a preacher. For grades 3-6. 1991. Braille The Door in the Wall BR 9243 by Marguerite de Angeli 1 volume Just before ten-year-old Robin is about to begin his duties as a page, he is stricken with an illness that leaves him unable to walk. Both his parents are away, and the servants, fearing the plague that has devastated London, leave him all alone. Then, Brother Luke takes Robin to St. Mark's hospice, where he learns new skills and the patience that will allow him to become a hero. For grades 4-7 and older readers. Newbery Medal. 1949. Soun Tetoken: Nez Perce Boy BR 9264 by Kenneth Thomasma 1 volume Soun Tetoken (silent one) is a young Nez Perce boy who is mute from a fire accident in his childhood. The boy learns to adapt to his silent state; he trains his horse and small coyote friend to obey hand and foot signs. A vivid portrayal of traditional Nez Perce culture. For grades 5-8. 1984. Timothy of the Cay BR 9509 by Theodore Taylor 1 volume In this companion to The Cay (BR 8750), we learn what has happened to Phillip since his rescue from a Caribbean island where as a twelve-year-old white boy blinded by a blow on the head, he had been stranded with Timothy, an elderly black deckhand. We also learn of Timothy's life and of his adventures at sea since his days as a young cabin boy. For grades 5-8 and older readers. 1993. Classics Cassettes Calico Bush RC 35410 by Rachel Field read by Laura Giannarelli 1 cassette (Reissue) A brave French girl "bound out" to a pioneer family travels with them from Massachusetts to a new settlement in Maine, where the pioneers face loneliness, hard work, Indian raids, and death. For grades 3-6. 1931. Emily's Runaway Imagination RC 36639 by Beverly Cleary read by Janis Gray 1 cassette (Reissue) Emily lives on a farm near the town of Pitchfork, Oregon, in the 1920s. She has a wonderful imagination that leads her into all kinds of difficulties, like when she tries to change a farm horse into a snow-white steed by washing it with Clorox! Nevertheless, Emily and her mother are determined to bring a library to Pitchfork. For grades 3-6. 1961. Henry and the Paper Route RC 36747 by Beverly Cleary read by Madelyn Buzzard 1 cassette (Reissue) Henry, eleven, feels it's high time he did something important, and he believes a paper route is just what he needs. When he takes over Scooter's route while he's out with the chicken pox, Henry feels certain he'll get Chuck's route when basketball season starts. But when Murph, the new "genius" in the neighborhood, lands the job, Henry's pesky friend Ramona comes to his rescue. Companion to Henry Huggins (RC 35642). For grades 3-6. 1957. I Heard the Owl Call My Name RC 37368 by Margaret Craven read by Ed Blake 1 cassette With only two years to live, a young minister is sent by his bishop into the wilds of British Columbia to a parish called Kingcome. There, among struggling Indians, Mark Brian learns enough of the meaning of life to not fear death. For junior and senior high and older readers. 1973. M.C. Higgins, the Great RC 36699 by Virginia Hamilton read by John Polk 2 cassettes (Reissue) Thirteen-year-old M.C. hopes that a visiting folklorist will help his family escape the menace of a nearby strip mine by making his mama a recording star. For grades 6-9. Newbery Medal. 1974. Proud Knight, Fair Lady: The Twelve Lais of Marie de France RC 35799 translated by Naomi Lewis read by Michele Schaeffer 1 cassette In the twelfth century, four hundred years before Shakespeare, a poet known only as Marie of France wrote tales in verse known as lais or lays. Each of the twelve tales included in this collection is a love story set in a courtly world inhabited by brave knights, faithful ladies, and magical devices. For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1989. Proud Knight, Fair Lady: The Twelve Lais of Marie de France RC 35799 translated by Naomi Lewis read by Michele Schaeffer 1 cassette In the twelfth century, four hundred years before Shakespeare, a poet known only as Marie of France wrote tales in verse known as lais or lays. Each of the twelve tales included in this collection is a love story set in a courtly world inhabited by brave knights, faithful ladies, and magical devices. For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1989. Watership Down RC 35730 by Richard George Adams read by John Horton 3 cassettes (Reissue) A fable about a band of rabbits who set out bravely for a new home in the English countryside. They encounter many dangers and adventures along the way, and finally make it to safety after rescuing some does who become their mates. For junior and senior high and older readers. 1972. Braille Adam of the Road BR 9192 by Elizabeth Janet Gray 2 volumes Tale of a minstrel boy, Adam, who wanders through southeastern England in the thirteenth century. Adam's adventures in search of his beloved father and his lost dog lead him to London, Winchester, and Oxford. For grades 4-7. Newbery Medal. 1942. And Now Miguel BR 9200 by Joseph Krumgold 2 volumes An introspective New Mexico youth tells of his great longing to accompany the men and sheep to summer pasture. Neither child nor man, he feels the need to be recognized as a maturing individual. For grades 5-8. Newbery Medal. 1953. Around the World in Eighty Days BR 9468 by Jules Verne 2 volumes Phileas Fogg is certain that he can travel around the world in eighty days--an incredibly short period of time in 1873. He's so sure that it can be done that he's wagered half of his fortune and set off on the grand adventure with his servant Passepartout. For junior and senior high and older readers. 1874. Banner in the Sky BR 9203 by James Ramsey Ullman 2 volumes The people of the Alpine villages say that no one will ever conquer the greatest mountain in Switzerland. Nevertheless, young Rudi Matt, whose father lost his life to the peak, joins an expedition to do what no one else has ever done. An authentic adventure based on the original ascent of the Matterhorn. For grades 5-8. Newbery Medal. 1954. The Bronze Bow BR 9149 by Elizabeth George Speare 2 volumes A young Jew joins a brutal band of outlaws to seek revenge against the Roman soldiers who killed his parents and destroyed his home. The boy's consuming hatred orders his life until he meets a rabbi from Capernaum named Jesus. For junior and senior high readers. Newbery Medal. 1961. The Call of the Wild BR 9833 by Jack London 1 volume Buck, a St. Bernard, is stolen and trained to be a sled dog in the Alaska gold fields. Abused by both men and dogs, Buck learns to fight ruthlessly until he finds in John Thornton a master he loves and respects. For junior and senior high and older readers. 1903. Carry On, Mr. Bowditch BR 9180 by Jean Lee Latham 2 volumes A fictionalized biography of Nathaniel Bowditch, the American sailor who taught himself mathematics and astronomy and discovered a new method of celestial navigation that saved the lives of many seamen. Historical details are coupled with the romance and adventure of old Salem. For grades 6-9 and older readers. Newbery Medal. 1955. Charlotte's Web BR 9405 by E.B. White 1 volume A little girl who can talk to animals is devoted to both Wilbur, the foolishly smug pig, and Charlotte, the beautiful gray spider who saves Wilbur's life. For grades 3-6. 1952. Dobry BR 9611 by Monica Shannon 1 volume The author's memories of childhood in Bulgaria enhance this story of a young peasant boy who wants to be a sculptor. He is discouraged by his mother's opposition but nourished by his grandfather's support. For grades 4-7 and older readers. Newbery Medal. 1934. The Door in the Wall BR 9243 by Marguerite de Angeli 1 volume Just before ten-year-old Robin is about to begin his duties as a page, he is stricken with an illness that leaves him unable to walk. Both his parents are away, and the servants, fearing the plague that has devastated London, leave him all alone. Then, Brother Luke takes Robin to St. Mark's hospice, where he learns new skills and the patience that will allow him to become a hero. For grades 4-7 and older readers. Newbery Medal. 1949. Drummer Hoff BR 9915 by Barbara Emberley 1 volume A folk rhyme tells how soldiers work together to fire their cannon. Caldecott Medal. PRINT/BRAILLE. For grades K-3 and older readers. 1967. Emily's Runaway Imagination BR 9249 by Beverly Cleary 1 volume Emily lives on a farm near the town of Pitchfork, Oregon, in the 1920s. She has a wonderful imagination that leads her into all kinds of difficulties, like when she tries to change a farm horse into a snow-white steed by washing it with Clorox! Nevertheless, Emily and her mother are determined to bring a library to Pitchfork. For grades 3-6. 1961. Farmer Boy BR 9408 by Laura Ingalls Wilder 2 volumes Story about a traditional farm family in upper New York state in the 1860s. Tells about work, school, and simple amusements and introduces nine-year-old Almanzo Wilder, who later married Laura Ingalls. For grades 4-7 and older readers. 1933. Freckle Juice BR 9664 by Judy Blume 1 volume Andrew is so envious of Nicky's beautiful freckles that he pays five weeks' allowance for a secret freckle-juice recipe. For grades 2-4. 1971. From the Mixed-up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler BR 9549 by E.L. Konigsburg 1 volume Claudia, feeling misunderstood at home, takes her younger brother and runs away to New York City where she sets up housekeeping in the Metropolitan Museum of Art. For grades 4-6. Newbery Medal. 1967. A Handful of Thieves BR 9504 by Nina Bawden 1 volume When a confidence man disappears with Fred's grandmother's savings, five children--who call themselves the Cemetery Committee--set out to find the man and recover the money. For grades 3-6. 1967. Henry and the Clubhouse BR 9260 by Beverly Cleary 1 volume Henry has his hands full with a paper route and a clubhouse project, but things get even more complicated when his friend's little sister keeps interfering and his dog gets in a fight. For grades 3-6. 1962. Henry and the Paper Route BR 9296 by Beverly Cleary 1 volume Henry, eleven, feels it's high time he did something important, and he believes a paper route is just what he needs. When he takes over Scooter's route while he's out with the chicken pox, Henry feels certain he'll get Chuck's route when basketball season starts. But when Murph, the new "genius" in the neighborhood lands the job, Henry's pesky friend Ramona comes to his rescue. Companion to Henry Huggins (BR 7178). For grades 3-6. 1957. Homer Price BR 9232 by Robert McCloskey 1 volume Nothing much happens in Centerburg, the home of the hero of this story, but then things get exciting as he catches burglars with his pet skunk, makes nonstop doughnuts in his uncle's lunchroom, and comes to the aid of the Super Duper. For grades 4-7. 1943. I Heard the Owl Call My Name BR 9406 by Margaret Craven 1 volume With only two years to live, a young minister is sent by his bishop into the wilds of British Columbia to a parish called Kingcome. There, among struggling Indians, Mark Brian learns enough of the meaning of life not to fear death. For junior and senior high and older readers. 1973. It's Like This, Cat BR 9722 by Emily Cheney Neville 1 volume The story of a fourteen-year-old New York boy and his relationships with a stray tomcat, an eccentric old woman, a troubled older boy, his first female friend, and his father. For grades 5-8. Newbery Medal 1963. The Light in the Forest BR 9589 by Conrad Richter 1 volume Once he was John Cameron Butler, but for the past eleven years, True Son, a fifteen-year-old white boy raised by Indians, has been the loved and adopted child of a great Lenni Lenape warrior. Now, forcibly returned to his family, True Son cannot believe that the pallid man standing before him in a garment the color of a woman's expects True Son to accept him as his father. For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1953. Little Women BR 9758 by Louisa May Alcott 4 volumes The author's home life in New England is the basis for this book, which has been popular for more than a century. The tale tells of the four March sisters--quick-tempered Jo, who is restless for freedom; Beth, who loves her home and family; Meg, who longs for pretty clothes; and self-absorbed Amy. For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1868. Lord of the Flies BR 9480 by William Golding 2 volumes With horrifying implications, this novel relates the experiences of a group of English boys who are wrecked on a desert island and have to establish their own system of government. For junior and senior high and older readers. 1954. Onion John BR 9631 by Joseph Krumgold 2 volumes Andy Rusch befriends Onion John, the town's old odd-job man who lives near the city dump. Andy's father cannot understand Andy's affection for Onion John, and conflict develops when Mr. Rusch tries to reform Onion John. For grades 5-8 and older readers. Newbery Medal 1959. The Prince and the Pauper BR 9695 by Mark Twain 2 volumes The future Edward VI of England and a young pauper agree to trade places for a few days. The pauper becomes king, and he finds it quite insufferable. Meanwhile, the prince is roaming the street in tatters. People and circumstances almost make the role reversal permanent. For junior and senior high and older readers. 1882. Rabbit Hill BR 9570 by Robert Lawson 1 volume When a new family moves into a big house that has been standing empty, they start an extra-large garden. The small animals rejoice because they really have missed the garden they once depended on. For grades 3-6. Newbery Medal. 1944. Ramona Quimby, Age Eight BR 9427 by Beverly Cleary 1 volume As Ramona enters third grade, her father returns to college to become an art teacher. Having a working mother and a student father is tough on the family, but the Quimbys stick together through good times and bad. For grades 3-6 and older readers. 1981. Roller Skates BR 9691 by Ruth Sawyer 2 volumes Lucinda is a lively, happy ten-year-old who spends her spare time exploring New York on roller skates. Her happy personality wins many friends, and her adventures reveal a picture of city life in 1890. For grades 4-7 and older readers. Newbery Medal. 1936. Sarah, Plain and Tall BR 9531 by Patricia MacLachlan 1 volume Anna and Caleb have lived alone with their father since their mother died. When Sarah comes to live with them in response to their father's newspaper advertisement, the whole family falls in love with her. But they fear that Sarah's homesickness for the Maine coast will keep her from staying with them in their prairie home. For grades 3-6. Newbery Medal. 1985. Secret of the Andes BR 9563 by Ann Nolan Clark 1 volume High up in a hidden valley in the Andes, an Inca boy whose identity is a mystery is chosen to know the secret of two ancient Inca treasures. For grades 5-8. Newbery Medal. 1952. Sounder BR 9764 by William H. Armstrong 1 volume The mother and son of a black sharecropper family in the South struggle for survival when the sheriff arrests the father for stealing and shoots their devoted coon dog. For grades 5-8. Newbery Medal 1969. Strawberry Girl BR 9585 by Lois Lenski 1 volume This regional story contrasts the lives of an industrious family of Florida Crackers, struggling to make a living from their strawberry patch, and the shiftless family who lives on the adjoining farm. For grades 4-7. Newbery Medal. 1945. The Summer of the Swans BR 9560 by Betsy Byars 1 volume When a mentally retarded boy becomes lost in the mountains, his fourteen-year-old sister forgets her own teenage problems and gains new insight into herself and her family. For grades 4-7. Newbery Medal. 1970. Tales from Silver Lands BR 9160 by Charles J. Finger 2 volumes The folk magic of a land of silver cascades, mist-shrouded mountains, and wide pampas fills these nineteen South American stories. For grades 4-7. Newbery Medal. 1924. Thimble Summer BR 9158 by Elizabeth Enright 1 volume One scorching day in the middle of a drought, Garnet Linden finds a silver thimble that she believes to be magic. Good luck begins that night with a rainfall that saves her father's crops. For grades 4-7. Newbery Medal. 1938. Twenty-Thousand Leagues under the Sea BR 9469 by Jules Verne 3 volumes A nineteenth-century science fiction tale of an electric submarine, the Nautilus; its eccentric captain, Captain Nemo; and the undersea world. The novel anticipates many of the scientific achievements of the twentieth century. For junior and senior high and older readers. 1869. Up a Road Slowly BR 9381 by Irene Hunt 2 volumes With clear recall, Julie recounts growing up motherless from age seven to high school graduation. She relates the pains and high moments and describes her relationships, both happy and disappointing. For grades 6-9 and older readers. Newbery Medal. 1966. The Wheel on the School BR 9525 by Meindert DeJong 2 volumes Long ago, the little Dutch village of Shora was full of friendly, luck-bringing storks. But fierce storms drove the storks away, and they never returned. Six schoolchildren, with the help of their teacher, set out to bring the storks back to their village. For grades 4-7. Newbery Medal. 1954. The White Stag BR 9174 by Kate Seredy 1 volume The legendary story of Attila the Hun and the founding of Hungary--of a white stag and red eagle leading a people to their promised land. For grades 5-8. Newbery Medal. 1937. A Wrinkle in Time BR 9403 by Madeleine L'Engle 2 volumes When an atomic physicist disappears, his children begin a bizarre search. Led by three whimsical characters, Mrs. Whatsit, Mrs. Who, and Mrs. Which, they manage their interplanetary journey by "wrinkling" to span space and time. For grades 5-8. Newbery Medal. 1962. Young Fu of the Upper Yangtze BR 9155 by Elizabeth Foreman Lewis 2 volumes Rogues and bandits seem to rule China during the turbulent 1920s. But Young Fu has moved from his country home to the city, and he is determined to be an honest, hardworking coppersmith's apprentice. For grades 5-8. Newbery Medal. 1932. Family Cassettes Al Capsella and the Watchdogs RC 37551 by Judith Clarke read by Andrew Sofer 1 cassette Al Capsella, fifteen, longs for an independent social life. However, his folks, like the parents of his friends, are far too overprotective for his liking. His mom is not above borrowing a dog to walk in order to trail him to a party! But when Mrs. Capsella's parents are forced by floodwaters to stay with their daughter, she is angered by their scrutiny. Sequel to The Heroic Life of Al Capsella (RC 34854). For junior and senior high readers. 1990. Angela and the Broken Heart RC 36653 by Nancy K. Robinson read by Catherine Byers 1 cassette Angela, six-and-a-half, is quite concerned about love and her teenage brother and sister. Her sister, thirteen, experiences love through a torrid romance novel concealed by a dust jacket that says Silas Marner. More serious, however, are the experiences of Angela's brother, who is smitten with a new girl in his tenth grade class and waits in vain for her to notice him. Companion to Angela, Private Citizen (RC 36654). For grades 3-6. 1991. Angela, Private Citizen RC 36654 by Nancy K. Robinson read by Catherine Byers 1 cassette Ever since she listened to her older brother in a debate on the national economy, six-year-old Angela has been worried about the country's running out of money. On April 15, as her parents are figuring out their last-minute income tax return, Angela decides to file her own, along with $4.53, and she uses the very form her parents need. For grades 3-6. 1989. Aunt Elaine Does the Dance from Spain RC 38021 by Leah Komaiko read by Ilona Dulaski 1 cassette Katy's aunt Elaine, who was born in Maine, dons a new persona when she does the dance from Spain. When in her costume, as if by magic, Aunt Elaine thinks that she is from Spain, and she becomes "­Elena! ­Elena!" For preschool-grade 2. 1992. A Baby Sister for Frances RC 38623 by Russell Hoban read by Madelyn Buzzard 1 cassette (Reissue) Because Frances, the badger child, has a very new sister that she is not sure she wants, Frances takes measures to convince her parents of her own very distinct importance. For grades K-3. 1964. Best Girl RC 37460 by Doris Buchanan Smith read by Catherine Byers 1 cassette No one understands better than Nealy Compton the devastation Mrs. Dees feels when her home is gutted by fire, for underneath the house was Nealy's special hiding place. There she found the solace needed to sketch and to enjoy her insect collection and her nature books. And there she could escape her mother's wrath, intensified by her older sister's departure from home. For grades 3-6 and older readers. 1993. Blue Heron RC 36656 by Avi read by Gail Nelson 1 cassette Maggie, who's almost thirteen, is spending August on the Massachusetts shore with her father, her young stepmother, and her new baby sister. But her father's anger is forever seething just below the surface, and the relationship between him and his wife is deteriorating as Maggie looks on helplessly. Then Maggie sees a great blue heron, discovers that someone is trying to kill it, and almost loses her father. For grades 5-8 and older readers. 1992. Bossy Steven RC 38309 by Molly Mia Stewart read by Kerry Cundiff 1 cassette Identical twins Elizabeth and Jessica Wakefield are second graders at Sweet Valley Elementary School. They have made a bet with their brother, Steven, who is in the fourth grade, that if he wins the school science fair, they will do his household chores for an entire week. And, much to their consternation, Steven wins the first-place ribbon for the fourth-grade entries! A Sweet Valley Kids book for grades 2-4. 1991. Brooke and Her Rock-Star Mom RC 38424 by Jamie Suzanne read by Kerry Cundiff 1 cassette Brooke Dennis is delighted that her mother will be moving back to Sweet Valley from Paris. Brooke knows that her mother has been abroad pursuing a singing career, but not what kind of music she sings. When Brooke hears a tape, she can hardly believe that her mother is Coco, the sexy new rock-star sensation that everyone is talking about. But Brooke must keep her mother's identity secret. A Sweet Valley Twins and Friends book for grades 3-6. 1991. Checking On the Moon RC 35046 by Jenny Davis read by Virginia Kearns 2 cassettes Her mother says "life is change," but Cab, thirteen, is ill-prepared to leave tiny Blue Cloud, Texas, for a summer in an old, dingy Pittsburgh neighborhood with a grandmother she's never met. Working in her grandmother's diner, Cab soon grows fond of the cafe's regulars. When nice Mr. Johansson is robbed and Cab's brother's girlfriend is brutally raped, Cab helps to organize a neighborhood watch. Some violence. For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1991. Coast to Coast RC 37070 by Betsy Byars read by Ardyth Heller 1 cassette From South Carolina to California, thirteen-year-old Birch and her grandfather, Pop, fly his beloved Piper J-3 Cub, a small plane with two seats, one behind the other. Their adventures across rivers, plains, mountains, and deserts take them many days. They encounter turbulent weather and other difficulties, and gain a whole new view of the earth and of themselves. For grades 5-8. 1992. Danny: The Champion of the World RC 39055 by Roald Dahl read by Tom Martin 1 cassette (Reissue) A young boy who lives with his father in a gypsy wagon behind a filling station describes how he and his father devise a daring prank that makes Danny the champion of the world. For grades 4-7. 1975. Dear Napoleon, I Know You're Dead, but . . . RC 37486 by Elvira Woodruff read by Michael Pinney 1 cassette Faced with a class assignment to write a letter to a famous person, Marty chooses to write to Napoleon Bonaparte, about whom he has heard so much from his lovable grandfather. When his grandfather goes into a nursing home to recuperate from surgery, he tells Marty that one of the residents can deliver mail to the dead--and Marty receives a reply, postmarked Paris, from Napoleon himself. For grades 3-6. 1992. Dinky Hocker Shoots Smack! RC 38725 by M.E. Kerr read by J.P. Linton 1 cassette (Reissue) Actually, Dinky Hocker would never touch drugs, but she feels she has to do something sensational to get the attention of her mother, who is currently dedicated to rehabilitating drug addicts. For junior and senior high readers. 1972. Don't Wake Up Mama! Another Five Little Monkeys Story RC 38328 by Eileen Christelow read by Madelyn Buzzard 1 cassette Five little monkeys are determined to bake a surprise birthday cake for Mama without waking her up. Mama sleeps through loud sneezes, monkeys crashing to the floor, and a near-burned cake rescued by a fireman. But Mama has an even bigger surprise for the five little monkeys! For preschool-grade 2. 1992. "E" Is for Elisa RC 36486 by Johanna Hurwitz read by Janis Gray 1 cassette More than anything else, four-year-old Elisa Michaels wishes she were as grown-up as her big brother Russell, who is eight. And, although she's now in the Sunshine Nursery School and happy about it, scarcely a day passes without a few tears shed. Russell is unsympathetic and teases her about being a "crybaby." But when she tries to prove her bravery by jumping from the bureau and breaks her arm, Russell vows to reform. For preschool-grade 2. 1991. The Exiles RC 38569 by Hilary McKay read by Patricia Kilgarriff 1 cassette Ruth, Naomi, Rachel, and Phoebe have been shipped off to spend the summer in the English Lake Country with Big Grandma--one of their least favorite relatives. Deploring the sisters' voracious reading habits (they only find cookbooks and Shakespeare in her house), Big Grandma insists that they explore their surroundings and discover the outdoors. Before the summer's over, the girls also discover Big Grandma's cache of books. For grades 4-7 and older readers. 1991. For the Love of Pete RC 39175 by Jan Marino read by Suzanne Toren 1 cassette When Olivia, her beloved grandmother, moves into a nursing home, twelve-year-old Phoebe is shepherded by the ailing woman's three devoted servants on a journey to find her father, whom she has never met. Bishopp, the British butler; Bertie, the African American cook who once sang with Olivia; and Billy, the Vietnam-vet chauffeur, escort Phoebe on a backroads odyssey from Lubelle County, Georgia, to Maine. For grades 5-8 and older readers. 1993. The Good Fortunes Gang: The Cousins Quartet, Book 1 RC 38377 by Margaret Mahy read by Bob Askey 1 cassette Pete Fortune--ten--and his parents, brother, and baby sister move from Australia to his father's childhood home in New Zealand. For the first time, Pete is surrounded by cousins, who by no means welcome him with open arms. In fact, to be accepted into the cousins' club--the Good Fortunes Gang--Pete must sleep in a graveyard next to a stone with his own name and age on it. For grades 3-6 and older readers. 1993. Grandaddy and Janetta RC 39079 by Helen V. Griffith read by Pam Ward 1 cassette Janetta takes the train from Baltimore to Georgia by herself to visit her grandfather, whom she hasn't seen in a year. She is relieved that he remembers her, as does Star, the mule. They have a delightful time listening to nature, gardening, and telling stories. When a missing cat turns up with a litter of kittens, Janetta takes the one with a star on its head so that Grandaddy won't get it confused with the mule. For preschool-grade 2. 1993. Here's to You, Rachel Robinson RC 39371 by Judy Blume read by Nona Pipes 1 cassette In this companion to Just as Long as We're Together (RC 27474), the Robinson family is in turmoil when older brother Charles is expelled from boarding school and sent home. He teases Rachel, thirteen and a brilliant student, for being a potato head. He also cruelly taunts older sister Jessica, who has a serious case of cystic acne. And Charles dismisses his teacher father as a wimp and calls his lawyer mother an ice princess. For grades 6-9. 1993. Hero of Lesser Causes RC 38460 by Julie Johnston read by Madelyn Buzzard 2 cassettes Twelve-year-old Keely Connor loves a challenge and is carefree and adventurous in her daily life in 1946 Canada. She faces a bigger challenge than she could have ever imagined, however, when her gifted older brother, Patrick, is paralyzed with polio and loses interest in living. Keely takes on the cause of healing Patrick's broken spirit and renewing his zest for life. For grades 5-8 and older readers. 1992. Journey RC 36103 by Patricia MacLachlan read by John Lescault 1 cassette Mama packed her suitcase and left. Journey, eleven, is sad and bewildered and can't seem to accept that his mother is not coming back. His grandfather and older sister, Cat, try to ease Journey's pain. As the summer progresses, Grandfather's new hobby of taking family photos, and a stray cat that moves in and has kittens, help Journey to come to terms with his anger and to understand that life goes on. For grades 5-8 and older readers. 1991. A Kind of Thief RC 37539 by Vivien Alcock read by Lynn Schrichte 1 cassette Elinor, thirteen, is stunned when the police come one morning and arrest her father for embezzlement. While the officers are distracted, her father slips her a luggage claim receipt. Elinor secretly retrieves the bag, and, although uneasy about having it, refuses to let her brother force it open. When they are parcelled out among relatives, Elinor takes the bag with her and dramatically learns of the extent of her father's thievery. For grades 5-8. 1991. Littlejim RC 36614 by Gloria Houston read by Andy Chappell 1 cassette Twelve-year-old Littlejim works hard helping his father on their rural North Carolina farm, but what he really loves to do is study and write. And, while those in his small community admire his scholarship and talent, his father--rugged, practical-minded Bigjim--does not find such interests "manly." In the hope of winning his father's respect, Littlejim enters an essay contest on "What it means to be an American." For grades 4-7 and older readers. 1990. M.C. Higgins, the Great RC 36699 by Virginia Hamilton read by John Polk 2 cassettes (Reissue) Thirteen-year-old M.C. hopes that a visiting folklorist will help his family escape the menace of a nearby strip mine by making his mama a recording star. For grades 6-9. Newbery Medal. 1974. Mama, Let's Dance RC 36493 by Patricia Hermes read by Madelyn Buzzard 1 cassette Leaving a note and fifty dollars, Mary Belle's mother deserts her three children. Ariel, seventeen, gets a job at the filling station and warns his two sisters, Mary Belle, eleven, and Callie, seven, that they must keep their mother's absence a secret or the county will send them to foster homes. But when Callie falls gravely ill, Amarius, an elderly black neighbor, and his niece, Miss Dearly, help sustain the children. For grades 5-8. 1991. Maybe Yes, Maybe No, Maybe Maybe RC 38515 by Susan Patron read by Suzanne Toren 1 cassette PK, eight, feels caught between Megan, her gifted, preteen sister with raging hormones, and Rabbit, her inquisitive younger sister with a ready reserve of questions. Their mother works evenings as a waitress, so PK gives Rabbit her nightly bath and regales her with stories PK finds in the dirty clothes hamper. When the family moves to another apartment, PK's imagination helps everyone to adjust. For grades 2-4 and older readers. 1993. The Midnight Eaters RC 36685 by Amy Hest read by Suzanne Toren 1 cassette Nana is sharing Samantha's room and sleeping in the bottom bunk. But on this snowy evening, neither of them is asleep yet, and it is already midnight. Although the doctor has ordered Nana to stay in bed, they go on a delightful midnight excursion to the kitchen where they build a fire, make delicious ice cream sundaes, peruse Nana's scrapbook, and talk about life and death. For grades K-3. 1989. Missing May RC 36384 by Cynthia Rylant read by Kerry Cundiff 1 cassette Orphaned at six and raised by an elderly West Virginia aunt and uncle with more devotion than money, Summer is twelve years old when Aunt May dies. While Summer's grief is profound, Uncle Ob seems absolutely unable to go on living without his beloved May; that is, until he decides that her presence lingers nearby and that somehow he can contact her. Disappointed in his efforts, Uncle Ob comes to choose living over mourning. Newbery Medal. For grades 5-8. 1992. The Moon Lady RC 36467 by Amy Tan read by Yvonne Fair Tessler 1 cassette A grandmother living in America tells her granddaughters of her childhood adventure at the Moon Festival. Ying-ying, a pampered child living in China, travels by boat to catch a glimpse of the Moon Lady and to tell the lady her secret wish. When Ying-ying is lost at sea and the real identity of the Moon Lady is revealed, Ying-ying discovers the true wish of her heart. Adapted from The Joy Luck Club (RC 29021). For grades 3-6 and older readers. 1992. Mother Murphy RC 37508 by Colleen O'Shaughnessy McKenna read by Ellen Frost 1 cassette Eleven-year-old Collette Murphy's first reaction to the news of her mother's pregnancy is dismay. When she learns that her mother has previously suffered miscarriages, her dismay quickly turns to guilt. When her mother becomes bedridden and several sitters cancel out, Collette volunteers to care for her three younger siblings. She finds herself coping with a sister who's locked in the bathroom, the loss of electricity, and a fire in the oven. For grades 4-7. 1992. The Night the Whole Class Slept Over RC 39168 by Stella Pevsner read by J.P. Linton 1 cassette Sixth-grader Dan Wakefield is tired of being dragged from pillar to post by his hippie mother and professor father. On their way to yet another pristine wilderness, they are temporarily living in the small town where his mother grew up and where his grandparents may be able to help. Dan likes his school and has become involved in class activities. He has a best friend and he is hoping against hope that he won't have to move again. For grades 5-8. 1991. Oh, Brother RC 36686 by Johnniece Marshall Wilson read by John Stratton 1 cassette Brothers Alex and Andrew just can't seem to get along. Alex, the younger and more responsible, has a paper route and a bicycle. Andrew has a part-time job for a while but spends most of his time at the playground with his friends. The brothers grow closer, however, when Andrew is beaten up by a gang of boys and Alex's bike, which Andrew has borrowed, is stolen. For grades 4-7. 1988. The Original Freddie Ackerman RC 36880 by Hadley Irwin read by John Stratton 1 cassette Trevor Frederick Ackerman, twelve, has quite an assortment of parents, stepparents, and step-siblings. He feels uncared for and alienated from them all. As a result, he goes to spend the summer with two great-aunts who live on an island off the coast of Maine. Cal and Lou are charmingly eccentric, but Trevor is bored and escapes into daydreams of himself as a hero. Then he becomes involved in an exciting mystery. For grades 5-8. 1992. The Other Side of the Family RC 35043 by Maureen Pople read by Marilyn Gleason 1 cassette Kate Tucker has been sent from London to Australia to stay with her mother's parents until World War II is over. When the Japanese invade Sydney harbor, she is shipped to the interior to stay with her father's mother. Kate has never met this grandmother, who was so upset by her son's choice of a bride that she disinherited him. Arriving, Kate finds an old, poor, eccentric woman who teaches her a lot about life. For grades 6-9. 1986. The Outside Child RC 33971 by Nina Bawden read by Virginia Kearns 1 cassette Jane Tucker, thirteen, is content with her life. She lives with her Aunt Bill, an artist, and her Aunt Sophie, who plays the drums. Her father, away at sea much of the time, sees Jane when he can. But then, accidentally, Jane learns that her father remarried ten years ago and has three other children. Obsessed with meeting her siblings, Jane, with help from her best friend Plato Jones, devises elaborate schemes for a chance meeting. For grades 6-9. 1989. Pick-Up Sticks RC 36608 by Sarah Ellis read by Lydia Humphries 1 cassette Polly is upset to learn that she and her unmarried, unconventional mother must move from the house they've lived in for all of Polly's thirteen years. When her mother is unable to find an affordable apartment, Polly, in a panic, accepts her rich uncle's invitation to move in with his family. But while she finds that family members are materially well suited, their lives lack the things that really matter. For grades 5-8 and older readers. 1992. Plain City RC 37904 by Virginia Hamilton read by Nona Pipes 1 cassette The revelation that her father is close to home and not dead hits Buhlaire-Marie Sims like a bomb and turns her life upside down. The people she trusted--Mama, Aunt Digna, and Uncle Sam--seem to be liars. For the first time Buhlaire becomes self-conscious about her "carrot-honey" skin, her "Rasta" curls, and her mother--a nightclub singer and dancer. Meanwhile, Buhlaire's worst enemy, Grady Terrell, proves himself a friend. For grades 5-8 and older readers. 1993. A Question of Trust RC 38686 by Marion Dane Bauer read by John Stratton 1 cassette Furious with his mother for moving out, Brad, twelve, refuses to answer her calls or let his little brother Charlie speak with her either--in hope of forcing her to return. The boys take in a stray cat and watch her give birth. They can't tell Dad about Cat because of their past experiences with pets, so, to feed her, Brad steals Dad's change. When it appears that Cat has killed one of her kittens, the horrified boys determine to drive her away. For grades 5-8. 1994. The Real Plato Jones RC 38145 by Nina Bawden read by George Holmes 1 cassette At his grandfather's funeral in a Greek village, half-Greek and half-Welsh and London-bred teenager Plato Jones becomes aware of the World War II-era conflict that soured relations between his two sets of grandparents. While his Welsh grandfather was a hero in the Greek resistance, his other grandfather may have been a coward and a traitor. For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1993. Red-Dirt Jessie RC 36739 by Anna Myers read by Pam Ward 1 cassette Little sister Patsy has just been buried, and, while Jessie's whole family grieves, her father's mourning is unrelenting, and he has retreated into himself. Living in Oklahoma during the depression means that although Jessie, her mother, and her brother work extra hard, their very existence is threatened by their father's withdrawal. Jessie's hope for saving her father lies in Ring, a semi-wild dog she hopes to tame. For grades 5-8 and older readers. 1992. Rosy Cole Discovers America! RC 37878 by Sheila Greenwald read by Nona Pipes 1 cassette The students in Rosy Cole's class at Read School, a small private girls' school on Manhattan's Upper East Side, have been given an assignment to investigate their ancestry. They are to produce a page illustrating their family's roots for a book titled The USA Is Us. Disappointed in the poor European immigrant ancestors that she discovers, Rosy invents a clan of royal relatives. For grades 3-6. 1992. Roz and Ozzie RC 38152 by Johanna Hurwitz read by Nona Pipes 1 cassette Fourth-grader Roz and second-grader Ozzie are members of a slightly unusual family--Ozzie is Roz's uncle. Now that Roz and her parents have moved next door to her grandparents (Ozzie's parents), she's finding his constant tagging along, corny jokes, and troublesome penny collection a hindrance to her attempts at making new friends. For grades 3-6. 1992. The Skirt RC 36618 by Gary Soto read by Madelyn Buzzard 1 cassette Fourth-grader Miata Ramirez is always losing things. She has lost combs, books, homework, and even shoes. Now, Miata has left her mother's folkl¢rico skirt on the school bus. Her mother has had that skirt since she was a girl. Miata and her troupe are going to dance folkl¢rico after church on Sunday, they've been practicing for months, and Miata has got to have that skirt in order to perform. For grades 4-7. 1992. Soap Star RC 38435 by Kate William read by Kerry Cundiff 1 cassette Elizabeth Wakefield, quiet and reserved, is not at all like her identical twin Jessica. And she does not want to respond to a casting call for a set of blond, blue-eyed teens to star in a special edition of Jessica's favorite soap opera. When they audition and land the part, their lives change more than they ever could have imagined. And Jessica, infatuated with her costar, dumps her boyfriend Sam. A Sweet Valley High book for grades 6-9. 1992. The Squeaky Wheel RC 36081 by Robert Kimmel Smith read by Erik Sandvold 1 cassette Sixth-grader Mark Baker is struggling with the emotional fallout from his parents' divorce. His old life is gone, and his new one just doesn't seem right--an apartment instead of a house, a new school, and no friends. Moreover, he desperately longs for his parents to get back together. He misses his father and feels Dad is slipping away. Mark finally confronts his father with his fears, and they reach a better understanding. For grades 4-7. 1990. Stealing Home RC 37478 by Mary Stolz read by Michael Pinney 1 cassette The idyllic world of fishing, baseball, puzzles, and games that ten-year-old Thomas and his grandfather enjoy is shattered when Aunt Linzy moves in. She is Grandfather's cantankerous sister-in-law from Chicago, and she has been forced to retire. Aunt Linzy takes over Thomas's room and his cat, lectures Thomas and his grandfather on vegetarianism, and tries to clean up their clutter. For grades 3-6. 1992. The Store That Mama Built RC 37903 by Robert Lehrman read by Suzanne Toren 1 cassette Papa was a Russian Jewish immigrant whose dream was to own a grocery store in their small Pennsylvania town. But when he dies in 1917, the store has not yet opened. Twelve-year-old Birdie tells how she, her three brothers, and her two sisters help Mama succeed in managing the store. For grades 3-6 and older readers. 1992. Summer Girl RC 38040 by Deborah Moulton read by Kimberly Schraf 1 cassette It's been ten long years since Tommy, thirteen, has seen her father, Jud--and she has grown quite resentful of his neglect. Now her mother is dying, and Tommy must go to spend the summer with Jud in his small seaside town. Jud lives a reclusive life in dusty squalor. Tommy resists his overtures of friendship until, through her mother's letters, she comes to understand her parents' relationship and to forgive and love her father. For grades 6-9. 1992. T-Backs, T-Shirts, Coat, and Suit RC 38298 by E.L. Konigsburg read by Laura Giannarelli 1 cassette Chlo‰ is spending the summer in Florida with her stepfather's sister, Bernadette--an ex-hippie who drives a concession truck at the docks and shipyards. When some of the drivers begin wearing T-back (thong) bathing suits, a town-wide crisis develops as conservative Christians rally against such "indecency." Bernadette refuses to take sides or explain her neutrality, as she and Chlo‰ are swept into the controversy. For grades 5-8 and older readers. 1993. Take Care of My Girl RC 37377 by Patricia Hermes read by Mimi Bederman 1 cassette Brady is embarrassed over her fifth-grade class project on families. Her mother is dead, her Vietnam-veteran father left six years ago to "save the whales," and Jake, the grandfather with whom she lives, is having a bad time with his emphysema. The project offers Jake a chance to talk about what will happen to Brady when he dies. Jake and Brady track down her father, and Brady comes to realize that Jake is really her family. For grades 4-7. 1992. Tangled Webb RC 39004 by Eloise McGraw read by Carole Jordan Stewart 1 cassette After her widowed father remarries, twelve-year-old Juniper Webb can't shake the feeling that Kelsey, her young stepmother, is hiding something. Inspired by a school visit from a famous mystery writer and encouraged by her best friend, Alison, Juniper begins to weave her own web of fantasies as she plays detective. Gradually Kelsey's story unravels, and she confesses and confides in her new family. For grades 5-8. 1993. Those Summer Girls I Never Met RC 37948 by Richard Peck read by Phil Regensdorf 1 cassette Drew, sixteen, and his best friend Bates had been fantasizing for months about a summer filled with fun, cars, and girls when Drew's mother burst his bubble by telling him that he and his fourteen-year-old sister, Steph, are expected to spend the summer with their never-before-seen grandmother on a cruise from London to Leningrad. Much to their surprise they become attached to their svelte grandmother, a singer-entertainer. For grades 6-9. 1988. Toning the Sweep RC 37726 by Angela Johnson read by Carole Jordan Stewart 1 cassette Grandmama Ola left Alabama in 1964, right after her husband was murdered for being an "uppity nigger," and moved to the desert. Emily, fourteen, loves the desert as much as Ola. Perhaps due to the trauma of seeing her father murdered, Emily's mother hates the desert. Ola is moving to Cleveland with Emily and Mama, and they have come together to close up Ola's house--and find strength to face the past and the future. For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1993. Valerie and the Silver Pear RC 36411 by Benjamin Darling read by Madelyn Buzzard 1 cassette Valerie likes to visit her widowed grandfather in the house he had shared with her grandmother. There, the fruit trees her grandmother loved grow in the backyard. One lunchtime, as they sit munching on sandwiches, Grandpa tells Valerie of the silver pear that grows on the pear tree most years. They begin a quest for the silver pear, and learn to make grandmother's pear pie in the process (recipe included). For grades K-3. 1992. Wanted . . . Mud Blossom RC 37382 by Betsy Byars read by Phil Regensdorf 1 cassette When Junior discovers that the school's hamster, entrusted to his care, has disappeared, he jumps to a conclusion: Pap's dog, Mud, is a murderer. Mud seeks refuge under the porch and awaits his trial. Meanwhile, Mad Mary seems to be missing, and Vern and Michael appear to know more about it than they will admit. And Ralphie persists in his pursuit of Maggie. Companion to A Blossom Promise (RC 28770). For grades 4-7 and older readers. 1991. Western Wind RC 39006 by Paula Fox read by Kerry Cundiff 1 cassette Elizabeth Benedict, eleven, resents being sent to spend a month with her artistic, abrasive grandmother, who lives in a rustic cottage off the coast of Maine. Elizabeth thinks she is being exiled so that her parents can spend more time with her new baby brother. Eventually she is charmed and exasperated by Aaron, the son of the island's only other family. When he disappears, Elizabeth learns the real reason why she is there. For grades 5-8. 1993. When the Road Ends RC 37651 by Jean Thesman read by Catherine Byers 1 cassette Mary Jack, a foster child of twelve, spends a summer in rural Washington with two other foster children--Adam, twelve and sullen, and Jane, seven, who has been abused and won't speak. They live with a babysitter and Cecile Bradshaw, their foster father's sister, who is recovering from a serious injury. When the babysitter runs off, the children struggle to care for Cecile rather than return to their unhappy foster home. For grades 5-8. 1992. Will Somebody Please Marry My Sister? RC 39311 by Eth Clifford read by Laura Giannarelli 1 cassette Brooklyn, 1925. Abel's oldest sister, Ruthie, is a real oddity: a medical doctor. And even though Abel and his other sister, Annie, love Ruthie, she has become a roadblock. Abel can't get his own room, and Annie can't marry her fianc‚--all because of his grandmother's rule that the younger sister can't marry before the elder. Abel solicits the help of pesky Hilda, whose father is a matchmaker. For grades 4-7. 1992. Yang the Youngest and His Terrible Ear RC 36736 by Lensey Namioka read by Jamie Horton 1 cassette Youngest of four in a musically gifted family, Yingtao is tone-deaf, but his father persists in teaching him the violin. The family recently immigrated to Seattle, and Father hopes that the children's performance at a recital will bring him more students. Yingtao makes friends with Matthew, who plays the violin well, but whose father would rather he play baseball, at which Yingtao now excels. For grades 3-6. 1992. Braille The Boxcar Children BR 9507 by Gertrude Chandler Warner 1 volume The four orphaned Alden children begin their adventures by making a home for themselves in an abandoned boxcar in the woods. Their hardest job is to keep the people in the nearby town from knowing that they are orphans and all alone. For grades 4-7. 1942. It's Not the End of the World BR 9756 by Judy Blume 1 volume It does seem like the end of the world to Karen Newman when her parents separate. Though she tries very hard at first to make her parents reconsider, Karen finally begins to realize that their divorce is not the end of the world for anybody. For grades 4-7. 1972. Jafta and the Wedding BR 9828 by Hugh Lewin 1 volume Jafta lives in South Africa and his sister is getting married! Jafta joyously describes the festivities that begin on Monday and end on Sunday when Nomsa and her new husband, Dan, walk into the village square. For preschool-grade 2. 1981. Jimmy Lee Did It BR 9901 by Pat Cummings 1 volume "Jimmy Lee is back again/And nothing is the same." Thus begins a simple story told in rhyme of a little girl's search for the elusive Jimmy Lee, whom her brother blames for the messes and mischief around their house. PRINT/BRAILLE. For preschool-grade 2. 1985. Life's a Funny Proposition, Horatio BR 9328 by Barbara Garland Polikoff 1 volume It has been two years since his father died from lung cancer, and Horatio Tuckerman, twelve, and his mother have moved to a small town in Wisconsin to be closer to other family members. His grandfather, O.P. (Old Professor), has moved in with Horatio and his mother. As O.P. struggles to overcome the loss of his son, his beloved dog dies. The family pulls together to provide the support that each of them needs. For grades 4-7. 1992. Little Women BR 9758 by Louisa May Alcott 4 volumes The author's home life in New England is the basis for this book, which has been popular for more than a century. The tale tells of the four March sisters--quick-tempered Jo, who is restless for freedom; Beth, who loves her home and family; Meg, who longs for pretty clothes; and self-absorbed Amy. For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1868. Matilda BR 9591 by Roald Dahl 1 volume Matilda is an adorable four-year-old genius totally unappreciated by her crass, dishonest, used-car-salesman father and her blowsy, bingo-playing mother. Neither her parents nor her older brother, Michael, can understand why anyone would rather read a book than watch TV! Matilda's life is made bearable by her chance discovery of the public library and dear Mrs. Phelps, the librarian. For grades 3-6. 1988. Peppe the Lamplighter BR 9924 by Elisa Bartone 1 volume Peppe, though just a boy, has to go to work to help support his eight sisters. So he takes a job lighting the streetlamps in Little Italy in New York City. Peppe's father is ashamed of Peppe's job until one night when Peppe does not light the lamps and his sister Assunta cannot find her way home. PRINT/BRAILLE. For grades 2-4. 1993. Ramona and Her Mother BR 9251 by Beverly Cleary 1 volume Ramona thinks that because she is the youngest one in her family she often gets treated unfairly. For grades 3-6. 1979. Ramona Quimby, Age Eight BR 9427 by Beverly Cleary 1 volume As Ramona enters third grade, her father returns to college to become an art teacher. Having a working mother and a student father is tough on the family, but the Quimbys stick together through good times and bad. For grades 3-6 and older readers. 1981. Sarah, Plain and Tall BR 9531 by Patricia MacLachlan 1 volume Anna and Caleb have lived alone with their father since their mother died. When Sarah comes to live with them in response to their father's newspaper advertisement, the whole family falls in love with her. But they fear that Sarah's homesickness for the Maine coast will keep her from staying with them in their prairie home. For grades 3-6. Newbery Medal. 1985. Skylark BR 9786 by Patricia MacLachlan 1 volume In this sequel to Sarah, Plain and Tall (BR 9531), mail-order bride Sarah goes back East with children Anna and Caleb, leaving husband Jacob, whose name is "written in the land," to deal with their drought-stricken farm. The children are impressed with Sarah's home in Maine, but they miss their father and fear that they will never return to their beloved prairie. For grades 3-6. 1994. Sounder BR 9764 by William H. Armstrong 1 volume The mother and son of a black sharecropper family in the South struggle for survival when the sheriff arrests the father for stealing and shoots their devoted coon dog. For grades 5-8. Newbery Medal 1969. The Summer of the Swans BR 9560 by Betsy Byars 1 volume When a mentally retarded boy becomes lost in the mountains, his fourteen-year-old sister forgets her own teenage problems and gains new insight into herself and her family. For grades 4-7. Newbery Medal. 1970. The Tub Grandfather BR 9923 by Pam Conrad 1 volume In this sequel to The Tub People (BR 7946), the seven toy figures now live on a bright green braided rug that looks like a sunny field. While playing ball, the child discovers his long-lost grandfather, dusty and lying on his side under the radiator. The Tub People try, but they cannot make the grandfather come to life. Then the radiator begins to whistle a tune that the grandmother hums in his ear. PRINT/BRAILLE. For preschool-grade 2. 1993. Wanted...Mud Blossom BR 9419 by Betsy Byars 1 volume When Junior discovers that the school's hamster, entrusted to his care, has disappeared, he jumps to a conclusion: Pap's dog, Mud, is a murderer. Mud seeks refuge under the porch and awaits his trial. Meanwhile, Mad Mary seems to be missing, and Vern and Michael appear to know more about it than they will admit. And Ralphie persists in his pursuit of Maggie. Companion to A Blossom Promise (RC 28770, BR 8697). For grades 4-7 and older readers. 1991. Fantasy Cassettes Back to Before RC 39394 by Jan Slepian read by John Stratton 1 cassette Linny, eleven, finds camaraderie with his cousin Hilary, whom he is visiting for the summer at her new home in Vermont. During the past year, Linny's mother has died and Hilary's father has left home. Exploring an odd section of broken road on a foggy morning, Linny and Hilary are transported back a year into the past and to their old Brooklyn neighborhood. There they feel they can change the course of events. For grades 5-8 and older readers. 1993. The Battle for the Castle RC 39157 by Elizabeth Winthrop read by J.P. Linton 1 cassette In this sequel to The Castle in the Attic (RC 24452), William receives a magic token for his birthday, along with a note reminding him that his new age, twelve, is right for becoming a squire. The token is from Mrs. Phillips, and William and his friend Jason once again use it to return, through William's toy castle, to the medieval land of Sir Simon, a country menaced by a skeleton ship bearing a plague of evil. For grades 4-7. 1993. Black Unicorn RC 37074 by Tanith Lee read by June Carter 1 cassette Sixteen-year-old Tanaquil may be the daughter of a sorceress, but she can't do any magic and she finds life in her mother's castle dull and lonely. Her one skill, that of mending things, leads her to piece together a pile of old bones found in the desert, and she unknowingly brings back to life a mysterious black unicorn. The unicorn needs Tanaquil to help it return to its own perfect world. For junior and senior high and older readers. 1991. The Boggart RC 36547 by Susan Cooper read by John Horton 1 cassette The Boggart is an ancient, pesky, but good-hearted spirit who lives in a Scottish castle. That is, until he is inadvertently trapped by Emily Volnik, whose family inherits the castle and brings the Boggart to Canada. Dismayed at first, the Boggart quickly adjusts once he realizes that there is lots of ice cream and other treats to steal. But the Volniks are driven to their wits' ends by a plague of missing items and practical jokes. For grades 4-7 and older readers. 1993. Castle in the Air RC 36597 by Diana Wynne Jones read by John Polk 2 cassettes Abdullah, a young carpet merchant, spends much of his time creating a richly embellished daydream in which he is the long-lost son of a great prince. Lately, the daydream has focused on the princess to whom Abdullah imagines he is betrothed. Acquiring a threadbare, self-centered magic carpet, he embarks on a string of adventures that begins when he flies to see his beloved. Companion to Howl's Moving Castle (RC 25892). For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1990. Catwings Return RC 37397 by Ursula K. Le Guin read by Janis Gray 1 cassette In this sequel to Catwings (RC 29445), two of the winged cats, James and Harriet, decide to visit their mother. They fly back to the city, but she is gone and the neighborhood is being demolished for renewal. They find, instead, a lost, hungry, scared winged kitten, whom they entice out of hiding. For grades 2-4. 1989. Deerskin RC 37514 by Robin McKinley read by Laura Giannarelli 3 cassettes Based on Donkeyskin by Charles Perrault. Princess Lissar has the most beautiful mother in seven kingdoms, and Lissar will grow up to be just as beautiful. But her beauty will cause much sorrow as she is violated by her own father and forced to flee into the wilderness, with only her beloved dog Ash to comfort and protect her. There she will find peace for her wounded soul and the love of Prince Ossin. For junior and senior high and older readers. 1993. Don't Give Up the Ghost: The Delacorte Book of Original Ghost Stories RC 39092 edited by David Gale read by Bob Askey 1 cassette A dozen ghost stories--ranging from horror to humor--by contemporary authors who offer a brief, first-person statement about their lives and work. Includes "Things That Go Gleep in the Night" by Walter Dean Myers, "The Face in the Rafters" by Janet Taylor Lisle, and "The Sounds of the House" by Gary Soto. For grades 3-6 and older readers. 1993. Dragon's Milk RC 36623 by Susan Fletcher read by Madelyn Buzzard 2 cassettes Kaeldra is tall and fair and has never been accepted by her foster mother. Kaeldra's own mother was a dragon-sayer, an inherited ability hidden from Kaeldra until her foster sister becomes gravely ill and can only be cured by dragon's milk. When a mother dragon is killed, Kaeldra takes the three orphaned draclings and searches for a new family for them--against the wishes of evil men determined to stop her. Violence. For grades 5-8 and older readers. 1989. The Dreamkeepers RC 36882 by Chris Brodien-Jones read by John Horton 1 cassette Visiting their grandparents in the Welsh village of Rhydhowell, Derek Morgan, twelve, and his younger sister Eve become participants in a desperate psychic battle between good and evil. At Rhonabwy Court live the Dreamkeepers, bestowers of empowering dreams. Disguised as librarians, they struggle against Iona, an evil enchantress who has infiltrated Rhonabwy Court in the guise of a housekeeper, and they enlist Derek's help. For grades 5-8 and older readers. 1992. Forest RC 38555 by Janet Taylor Lisle read by Nona Pipes 1 cassette The residents of Upper and Lower Forest live parallel, peaceful lives until Amber Padgett, a twelve-year-old human, unknowingly trespasses on squirrel territory when building a hideout in a tree. As the "mink-tails" assemble to discuss the invasion, Amber's father launches a "search-and-destroy" mission. Caught in the middle are Amber, her brother Wendell, and two squirrels, Woodbine and Brown Nut. For grades 4-7 and older readers. 1993. Jeremy Thatcher, Dragon Hatcher RC 37037 by Bruce Coville read by Mimi Bederman 1 cassette Sixth-grader Jeremy Thatcher hates being small for his age--and he hates the bullies that pick on him. He also hates Mary Lou Hutton, whose one goal in life is to give Jeremy a kiss. One afternoon, trying to escape Mary Lou, he runs down a street he has never seen before and stumbles upon a magic shop. There he purchases a dragon's egg that soon hatches, making Jeremy the proud parent of a baby dragon that only he and Mary Lou can see! For grades 5-8. 1991. Mariel of Redwall RC 36748 by Brian Jacques read by David Palmer 2 cassettes This adventure follows the mousemaid Mariel in her quest for vengeance against the searat Gabool the Wild and his Rodent Corsairs, who imprison her father and leave her to drown during a storm at sea. Tough and resilient, she makes her way to Redwall Abbey, where she finds stalwart companions who will accompany her through the Mossflower woods back to Gabool's stronghold. Companion to Redwall (RC 29729). For grades 5-8. 1991. The Mark of the Cat RC 36422 by Andre Norton read by Gary Tipton 2 cassettes The "outer region" consists of five queendoms--each ruled by a queen--with an emperor as supreme. Here the kotti, or cat, is considered sacred. When Hynkkel's kotti is killed, his father decides it is time for Hynkkel's coming-of-age "solo," for which he will be abandoned far from home and must find his way back. Hynkkel, considered weak by his father, will have a cat pendant to protect him. For junior and senior high and older readers. 1992. Matthew and the Sea Singer RC 38646 by Jill Paton Walsh read by Patricia Kilgarriff 1 cassette Young Birdy pays the orphan master her birthday shilling to rescue a raggedy boy named Matthew. The next morning she is amazed to hear him sing in a voice too beautiful to be believed. The parson agrees to tutor him to sing Sunday music, and the boy's angelic voice enchants the villagers and all other creatures. When Matthew disappears, Birdy suspects that he has been stolen by the seal-queen, a "half-and-half" sort of creature. For grades 3-6. 1992. The Minpins RC 36437 by Roald Dahl read by Jennifer Mendenhall 1 cassette Disobeying his mother, Little Billy goes into the Forest of Sin and is nearly devoured by a fire-breathing monster. He barely escapes up a tree, where he discovers a community of tiny people, the Minpins. The Minpins' homes remind Little Billy of the queen's doll house at Windsor Castle. When Little Billy learns that the Minpins are also being terrorized by the fire-breathing monster, he devises a heroic plan. For grades K-3. 1991. Monster Blood RC 38059 by R.L. Stine read by Ilona Dulaski 1 cassette While his parents go away for two weeks, Evan, twelve, must stay with his great-aunt Kathryn, whom he hasn't seen since he was two. His dog, Trigger, will be staying too. Even his father thinks that Kathryn is weird, and she looks the part of a scary old witch. But there is no one else for Evan to stay with while his parents house hunt in Atlanta. When they go to drop Evan off, Kathryn greets them with a large, bloody knife. For grades 4-7 and older readers. 1992. Moss Pillows: A Voyage to the Bunny Planet RC 38671 by Rosemary Wells read by Suzanne Toren 1 cassette After a four-hour ride in the backseat, Robert arrives at Uncle Ed and Aunt Margo's for a visit. Their four boys rough Robert up, and just before dinner Uncle Ed and Aunt Margo begin to bicker. Dinner is liver chili. Robert needs a break! He closes his eyes and is swept away for a visit to the Bunny Planet. For preschool-grade 2. 1992. The Night Call RC 38283 by Jeanne Modesitt read by Kimberly Schraf 1 cassette Late one night, when everyone is asleep, a star falls from the sky. Starman sends a message on the wind to stuffed animals Rabbit and Mr. Bear. They go to a secret world hidden beneath a hollow tree, where they join their friends in a search for the fallen star. For preschool-grade 2. 1989. The Remarkable Journey of Prince Jen RC 36594 by Lloyd Alexander read by Janis Gray 2 cassettes Young Lord Prince Jen leaves his elderly father to seek T'ien-kuo, a kingdom that is legendary for its contented subjects. In order to gain an audience with the king of T'ien-kuo, Jen is advised to bring six gifts--a saddle, a sword, a paint box, a bowl, a kite, and a flute. A series of disasters befalls him along the way, and he loses everything except his humanity. For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1991. A Ride on the Red Mare's Back RC 36188 by Ursula K. Le Guin read by Ilona Dulaski 1 cassette Long ago, in the cold North, a girl's brother is stolen by trolls. Her parents are too grief-stricken to act, so the brave girl gathers up her only toy--a wooden horse--a piece of bread, a scarf that she made for her brother, wooden knitting needles, and a ball of yarn, and she treks into the dark, snowy forest to rescue her brother. Before her journey ends, she learns of the magic possessed by the toy wooden horse. For grades K-3 and older readers. 1992. Searching for Dragons: The Enchanted Forest Chronicles, Book 2 RC 38345 by Patricia C. Wrede read by Pam Ward 2 cassettes King Mendanbar of the Enchanted Forest hates simpering princesses. Princess Cimorene, feisty and independent, disdains pompous kings. Although at first they mistake each other for twits, they soon relish each other's companionship as they rescue Kazul, king of the dragons, and save the forest from a band of wicked wizards. Sequel to Dealing with Dragons (RC 33457). For grades 5-8. 1991. The Secret of the Indian RC 35632 by Lynne Reid Banks read by John Polk 1 cassette Continues the story of Omri and Patrick's magic miniature figures. During a battle in the Indian village, several Indians are wounded and some die from the modern weapons the boys have given them. Omri and Patrick decide they must share their secret with Emma, Patrick's cousin, who has a set of medical figures. Sequel to The Indian in the Cupboard (RC 18512) and Return of the Indian (RC 27800). For grades 4-7 and older readers. 1989. Song of the Gargoyle RC 37527 by Zilpha Keatley Snyder read by Gregory Gorton 2 cassettes Tymmon, thirteen, flees the abductors of his father, the jester of Austerneve, and takes refuge in the Sombrous Forest. Frightened and longing for the knighthood that his lowly station denies him, he is befriended by Troff, a gargoyle. They make a living as street musicians in Montreff. When an elderly man reveals the identity of Tymmon's parents, he returns to Austerneve to rescue or avenge his father. For grades 4-7 and older readers. 1991. Stay out of the Basement RC 38058 by R.L. Stine read by Ilona Dulaski 1 cassette It has been very tense in the Brewer household since Dad started working at home--staying in the basement all of the time with his plants and weird machines. He no longer has time for Margaret or Casey. They don't know why their dad, a botanist, got fired from PolyTech. Curious about his work, they head for the cellar, only to be stopped by their dad--green, dripping blood, and screaming at them to stay out of there. For grades 4-7 and older readers. 1992. Switching Well RC 38302 by Peni R. Griffin read by Michele Schaeffer 2 cassettes In this time-travel fantasy, two girls from different centuries inadvertently trade places. Sitting by an old well near her San Antonio home in 1891, twelve-year-old Ada wishes herself 100 years into the future. Simultaneously, in 1991, Amber, another discontented twelve-year-old seated at the same well, wishes herself back in time when, she believes, life was easy. Both girls learn that each century has its problems. For grades 5-8. 1993. Time Cat RC 36142 by Lloyd Alexander read by John Stratton 1 cassette (Reissue) Gareth is a black cat with special powers who takes his friend Jason to nine different places in history, including Egypt in 2700 B.C., Rome and Britain in 55 B.C., Peru in 1555, and America in 1775. For grades 4-7. 1963. Tomorrow's Sphinx RC 36798 by Clare Bell read by Kimberly Schraf 2 cassettes Long after humankind has departed Earth to escape ecological catastrophe, the Nile Valley is home for Kichebo, a female cheetah who is sable black with gold markings. Her bright coat makes hunting difficult. She also must be ever vigilant of the two-legged hunters who come in vehicles from the sky. Kichebo comes to form a link with another black cheetah, a male who once enjoyed an extraordinary bond with the pharaoh Tutankhamen. For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1986. The Wainscott Weasel RC 38518 by Tor Seidler read by John Horton 1 cassette The weasels in Wainscott Woods are in love. Zeke Whitebelly loves Wendy Blackish; and Bagley Brown Jr., the son of a famous father and Wainscott Woods' most eccentric resident, is deeply in love and obsessed with Bridget, a silver fish. But Bridget believes that "fish are meant for fish" and spurns his love. Bagley nevertheless vows to save Bridget and the other inhabitants of the pond from drought and the preying osprey. For grades 3-6. 1993. Braille Catwings Return BR 9414 by Ursula K. Le Guin 1 volume In this sequel to Catwings (BR 7881), two of the winged cats, James and Harriet, decide to visit their mother. They fly back to the city, but she is gone and the neighborhood is being demolished for renewal. They find, instead, a lost, hungry, scared winged kitten, whom they entice out of hiding. For grades 2-4. 1989. Jennifer Murdley's Toad: A Magic Shop Book BR 9699 by Bruce Coville 1 volume Jennifer, a fifth grader with few friends, longs to be beautiful. While being chased by a group of teasing girls, she finds herself on a street she's never seen before and enters a magic shop. Mr. Elives, the owner, persuades her to buy a toad. Jennifer does not know that Bufo is a talking toad hatched from the mouth of a witch and that she is in for a series of extraordinary adventures. For grades 3-6 and older readers. 1992. Stinker's Return BR 9270 by Pamela F. Service 1 volume Alien Tsynq Yr, a.k.a. Stinker, returns to earth (still inhabiting the body of a skunk) and again engages the assistance of Jonathan and Karen. This time Stinker must locate a suitably "earthly" souvenir for the High Gyrn of Twak in order to prevent interplanetary warfare. The trio zip to Washington, D.C., where they scour the museums in search of the perfect gift. Sequel to Stinker from Space (BR 8884). For grades 3-6 and older readers. 1993. The Sweetest Fig BR 9929 by Chris Van Allsburg 1 volume Monsieur Bibot is a fussy, miserly dentist who treats his dog, Marcel, cruelly. When he is given two figs as payment for a tooth extraction, Bibot is angry and does not believe the old woman's tale that the figs will make his dreams come true. After carelessly eating the first, he finds her words are true and controls his dreams as he prepares to eat the second. But Marcel upsets his plans in the worst possible way. PRINT/BRAILLE. For grades 3-6. 1993. Switching Well BR 9628 by Peni R. Griffin 2 volumes In this time-travel fantasy, two girls from different centuries inadvertently trade places. Sitting by an old well near her San Antonio home in 1891, twelve-year-old Ada wishes herself 100 years into the future. Simultaneously, in 1991, Amber, another discontented twelve-year-old seated at the same well, wishes herself back in time when, she believes, life was easy. Both girls learn that each century has its problems. For grades 5-8. 1993. Time Train BR 9927 by Paul Fleischman 1 volume During spring break, Miss Pym's class plans to take a trip to the Dinosaur National Monument in Utah. But the ticket man at the train station tells them to take the Rocky Mountain Unlimited train. The class travels back in time to when dinosaurs roamed the earth. PRINT/BRAILLE. For grades K-3. 1991. Tomorrow's Sphinx BR 9271 by Clare Bell 2 volumes Long after humankind has departed Earth to escape ecological catastrophe, the Nile Valley is home for Kichebo, a female cheetah who is sable black with gold markings. Her bright coat makes hunting difficult. She also must be ever vigilant of the two-legged hunters who come in vehicles from the sky. Kichebo comes to form a link with another black cheetah, a male who once enjoyed an extraordinary bond with the pharoah Tutankhamen. For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1986. Trouble with Trolls BR 8979 by Jan Brett 1 volume Treva tells of the day she had trouble with trolls. It is an early spring day when Treva decides to take Tuffi, her dog, to the other side of Mount Baldy for a visit with her cousin. They plan to climb up the mountain and ski down the other side. Little do they know that five dog-loving trolls await them, but feisty, clever Treva will outwit them all. PRINT/BRAILLE. For preschool-grade 2. 1992. The Widow's Broom BR 8973 by Chris Van Allsburg 1 volume A witch's worn-out broom falls from the sky, with its passenger aboard, into the garden of the lonely widow Minna Shaw. The witch soon departs, leaving the broom behind. When the widow spies it sweeping the floor by itself, she teaches it to chop wood, fetch water, and feed the cow. It even plays a few tunes on the piano. Her neighbors, the Spiveys, say that it is a devil's broom that must be destroyed. PRINT/BRAILLE. For grades K-3. 1992. A Wrinkle in Time BR 9403 by Madeleine L'Engle 2 volumes When an atomic physicist disappears, his children begin a bizarre search. Led by three whimsical characters, Mrs. Whatsit, Mrs. Who, and Mrs. Which, they manage their interplanetary journey by "wrinkling" to span space and time. For grades 5-8. Newbery Medal. 1962. Folk and Fairy Tales Cassettes All of You Was Singing RC 38002 retold by Richard Lewis read by Susan McInerney 1 cassette In sparse, poetic language the author retells the Aztec myth of the earth's creation. And how the sky persuaded the wind to bring music to the earth. For all ages. 1991. Alpha and the Dirty Baby RC 36451 by Brock Cole read by Pam Ward 1 cassette Papa is feeling just plain unappreciated and Mama overworked and tired when they utter harsh words. Unfortunately, the devil's imps overhear and turn Papa into a lump of coal and Mama into a green egg. The imps impersonate Mama and Papa and tell Alpha that their dirty baby is her new sister, but Alpha isn't fooled. Imps love dirt, and they spoil the clean house and laundry. But Alpha knows just what to do to get rid of these menaces. For grades K-3. 1991. American Tall Tales RC 35612 retold by Mary Pope Osborne read by Ilona Dulaski 1 cassette The author presents nine all-American folk figures whose extraordinary exploits take them from coast to coast. Included are Sally Ann Thunder Ann Whirlwind, a composite of several legendary characters; actual people like Davy Crockett, Johnny Appleseed, and John Henry (historians disagree on whether he was real); and fictitious characters such as Pecos Bill, Paul Bunyan, and Febold Feboldson. For grades 3-6 and older readers. 1991. Anansi Goes Fishing RC 38207 retold by Eric A. Kimmel read by Andy Chappell 1 cassette Anansi the Spider sees Turtle with a mighty fine fish for his dinner and decides to trick Turtle into catching one for him. But Turtle turns the tables, and it is he who ends up with a free meal. In the process, however, spiderwebs come into being. For preschool-grade 2. 1992. And in the Beginning . . . RC 37748 by Sheron Williams read by Carole Jordan Stewart 1 cassette According to Grandmother Shammama, Mahtmi, the Blessed One, created the first human from the rich, dark soil of Mount Kilimanjaro and named him Kwanza. After Kwanza goes off into the world however, Mahtmi is lonely and makes other humans from the red earth of Georgia and the sand of Normandy. When Kwanza returns, he is jealous of all the other people. Mahtmi then bestows one last token of his special love for Kwanza. For grades 2-4 and older readers. 1992. Best-Loved Stories Told at the National Storytelling Festival RC 37843 by National Association for the Preservation and Perpetuation of Storytelling read by John Stratton 2 cassettes The National Storytelling Festival, annually commemorating the heritage and art of storytelling, has been held in Jonesborough, Tennessee, since 1972. This volume honors the festival's twentieth anniversary. Included are thirty-seven tales that provide a wide variety of genres, sources, and colloquial voices. For junior and senior high and older readers. 1991. Boots and His Brothers RC 38578 retold by Eric A. Kimmel read by Gordon Gould 1 cassette In this Norwegian folktale, three brothers--Peter, Paul, and Boots--meet a poor beggar woman as they set out to seek their fortunes. Peter and Paul are mean and rude to the woman, but Boots is kind to her and presses a coin into her hand. In return, she gives him valuable advice that allows him to win his weight in gold and half a kingdom. For preschool-grade 2 and older readers. 1992. Boots and the Glass Mountain RC 39083 retold by Claire Martin read by Erik Sandvold 1 cassette In this Norwegian tale of Boots and his brothers, Boots bravely spends Midsummer Night alone in the barn guarding his father's fields. He tames the trolls' wild stallions and protects the fields the next year, and the next. The stallions later help him conquer the glass mountain and win the beautiful princess's hand. For grades 2-4 and older readers. 1992. Coyote Steals the Blanket: A Ute Tale RC 38478 retold by Janet Stevens read by Laura Giannarelli 1 cassette Coyote, not one to take advice, ignores the warning of Hummingbird and swipes a beautiful blanket draped over a huge rock, thus angering the spirit of the desert. The rock takes off in hot pursuit of Coyote in this humorous Ute trickster tale. For grades K-3. 1993. Crow Chief: A Plains Indian Story RC 38567 by Paul Goble read by Nick Sullivan 1 cassette In this Native American tale, Crow Chief always warns the buffalo when the hunters are approaching. That is, until Falling Star, the savior, comes to the camp and teaches Crow Chief that all must share and live together. For grades 2-4 and older readers. 1992. The Dark-Thirty: Southern Tales of the Supernatural RC 36183 by Patricia C. McKissack read by Bob Moore 1 cassette The author invites readers to gather in the "dark-thirty"--the eerie half hour just before dark, for ten tales inspired by African-American folklore and history. In "We Organized" a cruel owner is forced by magic to free his slaves; in "Justice" a KKK lynching victim returns to haunt; and in "The 11:59" a porter knows when his time is up. Coretta Scott King Award. For grades 5-8 and older readers. 1992. The Diamond Tree: Jewish Tales from around the World RC 36065 retold by Howard Schwartz and Barbara Rush read by Ray Hagen 1 cassette A collection of fifteen traditional Jewish tales drawn from ancient and modern sources and from all over the world. Included are "The Giant Og and the Ark," "Chusham and the Wind," "The Diamond Tree," and "The Prince Who Thought He Was a Rooster." For grades 2-4 and older readers. 1991. Disney's Aladdin RC 36373 retold by A.L. Singer read by Laura Giannarelli 1 cassette Retelling of the folktale Aladdin or the Wonderful Lamp. Evil Jafar, the sultan's key adviser, is determined to own the magic lamp that is hidden deep in the Cave of Wonder, into which only a Diamond in the Rough--a common person with shining qualities--may enter. Aladdin is such a person, and his kindness, honesty, intelligence, and sense of humor prove attractive to beautiful Princess Jasmine as well. For grades 2-4 and older readers. Bestseller 1992. Dream Wolf RC 36651 by Paul Goble read by John Stratton 1 cassette In this Plains Indian tale, young Tiblo and his little sister Tanksi lose their way in the hills, and, as darkness falls, they find refuge in a cave. That night Tiblo dreams that a wolf appears to watch over them. When he awakens, the dream has come true, and the wolf guides the two children home. For grades 2-4 and older readers. 1990. Drylongso RC 37156 by Virginia Hamilton read by Pam Ward 1 cassette This cautionary tale describes the struggles of young Lindy and her family to survive on their drought-stricken farm during the summer of 1975. A fast-approaching dust storm drives ahead a thin boy who falls exhausted at their doorstep. He calls himself Drylongso, a colloquial African American word for drought. The young boy tells the family of other droughts and of planting sunflowers and thistles to hold the soil. For grades 3-6 and older readers. 1992. East o' the Sun and West o' the Moon RC 36275 translated by Sir George Webbe Dasent read by Barbara Caruso 1 cassette There once lived a very poor farmer who had many beautiful children, the loveliest of whom was his youngest daughter. When a huge white bear offers to make the farmer rich in exchange for this daughter, the farmer agrees. The daughter lives in spendid luxury, but takes a forbidden look at the bear in human form. He is a handsome prince, and her betrayal intensifies the spell that he is under. For grades 3-6. 1859. The Egyptian Cinderella RC 36665 retold by Shirley Climo read by Yolande Bavan 1 cassette Because of her rosy complexion and fair hair, Rhodopis, a Greek slave girl in ancient Egypt, is scorned and teased by the Egyptian girls who work for her kind master. Seeing her dance with the animals, her master orders a pair of gilded red-rose slippers for Rhodopis. When a mighty falcon takes her slipper and deposits it in the lap of the pharaoh Amasis, he determines to marry the maiden whose foot it fits. For grades K-3 and older readers. 1989. Feathers and Tails: Animal Fables from around the World RC 38034 retold by David Kherdian read by Laura Giannarelli 1 cassette A collection of animal fables, folktales, and proverbs from a wide variety of sources. Includes "Crane Woos Heron" (Russian), "Anansi Rides Tiger" (West African), "Monkey" (Chinese), and "The Stolen Moon" (Kutchin Indian). For grades 2-4 and older readers. 1992. The Firebird RC 38710 retold by Robert D. San Souci read by Ed Blake 1 cassette A long time ago, a prince named Ivan went on a hunting trip and got lost in the deep woods. There he came upon a magical Firebird and snared her in his net. Soon, however, in exchange for a magic talisman with the power to summon her help in time of need, Ivan agreed to set her free. Then he discovered that the beautiful Princess Elena was held captive by an evil wizard, Kastchei, and called upon the Firebird's help. For grades K-3 and older readers. 1992. First Snow, Magic Snow RC 37029 retold by John Cech read by Celeste Lawson 1 cassette A woodsman and his wife--who have three cows, fourteen geese, a cat, a dog, orchards of fruit, and a huge meadow--long for a child. With the year's first snow, the woodsman molds a child that comes to life and lives with him and his wife throughout the winter. When the little girl disappears in the spring, the couple set out in search of her. For grades K-3. 1992. The Girl Who Loved Wild Horses RC 38551 by Paul Goble read by John Horton 1 cassette A tale of a young Native American girl who loved horses in a very special way. The people in her village noticed how she understood the wild horses, and how she could speak softly and the horses would follow her. Although fond of her parents and her tribe, the girl would at last become one of the Horse People. Caldecott Medal. For grades 2-4 and older readers. 1978. The Golden Deer RC 38198 retold by Margaret Hodges read by Andy Chappell 1 cassette It is believed that Buddha, the holy one, visited Earth many times and appeared in many different shapes--each time becoming wiser until he came as the man called Buddha. In one of his lifetimes, however, he came to Earth as a golden deer. This is the story of how he saved all creatures killed for their meat by humankind. For grades K-3 and older readers. 1992. The Green Gourd: A North Carolina Folktale RC 38105 retold by C.W. Hunter read by Madelyn Buzzard 1 cassette The old woman who lived "cross a rushin' stream and up a holler" lost her gourd dipper while "scoopin' water" at the stream. Now, she knew the saying "never pull a green gourd afore it's ripe, or it'll witch ye sure," but she went and yanked a big green gourd off the vine by her house anyway--much to her regret. For grades K-3. 1992. How a Shirt Grew in the Field RC 37138 retold by Marguerita Rudolph read by Laura Giannarelli 1 cassette Searching for something resembling a shirt, young Vasya watches the flax seed from planting to harvesting. After the harvest, he observes the sheaves of flax being soaked in the river, being threshed with boards, being combed, woven, and bleached. Finally, one spring morning he awakens to find a beautifully embroidered shirt, just his size, on his bed. For preschool-grade 2. 1967. How Raven Brought Light to People RC 38202 retold by Ann Dixon read by Andy Chappell 1 cassette A long time ago, the earth was new, and the people had no light. A great chief hid the sun, the moon, and the stars in three wooden boxes. Raven grew tired of the darkness and angry that the chief kept the light from earth's people. This is a tale of how Raven tricks the chief out of the boxes and gains black feathers in the process. Adapted from an Alaskan Tlingit Indian legend. For grades K-3 and older readers. 1992. How the Ox Star Fell from Heaven RC 36141 retold by Lily Toy Hong read by John Stratton 1 cassette In the beginning oxen did not live on earth, nor were they beasts of burden. They enjoyed lives of leisure with the Emperor of All the Heavens. Life on earth was extremely hard, for there were no beasts to help the peasants sow and reap their food. When the Ox Star bungles a message from the emperor to the peasants, he is banished from heaven and becomes a blessing on earth. A Chinese folktale for grades K-3 and older readers. 1991. In the Month of Kislev: A Story for Hanukkah RC 38213 by Nina Jaffe read by Barry Bernson 1 cassette The children of a peddler too poor to buy a potato for Hanukkah fall happily asleep each night enticed by the delicious smell of the latkes from the rich merchant Feivel's house. When the greedy Feivel learns of their enjoyment, he takes the poor peddler's family to court to demand payment--and learns a lesson about the meaning of Hanukkah. For preschool-grade 2 and older readers. 1992. Jamie O'Rourke and the Big Potato: An Irish Folktale RC 37999 retold by Tomie dePaola read by Laura Giannarelli 1 cassette Jamie O'Rourke, the laziest man in Ireland, would do anything to avoid work--especially if it involved growing potatoes. So each year Eileen, his wife, would plant, care for, and harvest the "praties" to keep from starving. But one year Eileen wrenched her back. Certain that starvation was near, Jamie set out for confession and, on the way, caught a leprechaun who offered to grant him a wish. For grades K-3. 1992. The Journey of Meng: A Chinese Legend RC 39156 retold by Doreen Rappaport read by Catherine Byers 1 cassette In this Chinese folktale, Meng Jiangnu's husband, Wan, a scholar, has been dragged away by soldiers of the cruel emperor and forced into slave labor on China's Great Wall. After more than a year, Meng sees a vision of Wan freezing to death. She makes warm, padded clothing and shoes for Wan and sets out on the long, perilous journey to the north. But Wan has been buried with hundreds of other workers in a section of the wall near the sea. For grades 3-6. 1991. The King's Equal RC 36149 by Katherine Paterson read by Tom Martin 1 cassette Long ago and far away, a good and wise king lay dying. The grief of his subjects was compounded by the fear that his son, Prince Raphael, would succeed him. The prince was handsome, wealthy, and well educated, but very, very arrogant. Therefore, the wise king stipulated that his son could not wear the crown until he found a bride equal to him in beauty, wealth, and intelligence--a feat Prince Raphael deemed impossible. For grades 2-4 and older readers. 1992. Ladder to the Sky: How the Gift of Healing Came to the Ojibway Nation; A Legend RC 36513 retold by Barbara Juster Esbensen read by Madelyn Buzzard 1 cassette Long ago in the Ojibway lands, there was no sickness or death. A magic vine connected the kingdom of the Great Spirit with earth. At the end of life, one was carried by a spirit up the vine. When an old woman distraught over the loss of her grandson climbs the forbidden vine, sickness and death come to earth, but so does knowledge of using plants for healing. For grades 4-7 and older readers. 1989. Larger than Life: The Adventures of American Legendary Heroes RC 38170 by Robert D. San Souci read by Bill Quinn 1 cassette John Henry weighed forty-four pounds at birth, and loved hammering even as a baby. Alfred Bulltop Stormalong, who always loved the sea, stood twenty-four feet tall. And Slue-Foot Sue, big and brawny, could do the work of ten men. The author retells five tall tales about these and other legendary American heroes. For grades 3-6 and older readers. 1991. Larger than Life: The Adventures of American Legendary Heroes RC 38170 by Robert D. San Souci read by Bill Quinn 1 cassette John Henry weighed forty-four pounds at birth, and loved hammering even as a baby. Alfred Bulltop Stormalong, who always loved the sea, stood twenty-four feet tall. And Slue-Foot Sue, big and brawny, could do the work of ten men. The author retells five tall tales about these and other legendary American heroes. For grades 3-6 and older readers. 1991. The Lost Children: The Boys Who Were Neglected RC 39165 by Paul Goble read by Suzanne Toren 1 cassette In this retelling of a Blackfoot Indian legend, six orphaned brothers are neglected by the people, teased by the children, and loved only by the camp dogs. They decide to leave for the Above World, where Sun Man grows angry upon hearing of their neglect and punishes the people. Today the orphans shine in the sky as the Pleiades stars, or "the Lost Children." For grades K-3 and older readers. 1993. Love Flute RC 36819 retold by Paul Goble read by Laura Giannarelli 1 cassette In this Native American legend, a young man is too shy to woo the woman he loves. He's brave in battle and a leader in the buffalo hunt, but he's afraid to speak to her, though he longs to stand with her draped in his blanket and confess his love. Sad and lonely, he wanders into the forest, where two Elk Men bring him a flute that the birds and animals have made. It is a flute that will speak to the heart of the woman he loves. For grades 3-6 and older readers. 1992. Ma'ii and Cousin Horned Toad: A Traditional Navajo Story RC 36522 retold by Shonto Begay read by Janis Gray 1 cassette Ma'ii the coyote is hungry, as usual, so he decides to visit his cousin, Horned Toad, who is hard at work in his cornfield. Ma'ii hates to work and goes from one cousin to the next to get food and a sleeping place. After a delicious meal, Ma'ii decides he wants his cousin's entire cornfield, and tricks and swallows him. But Horned Toad teaches Ma'ii a lesson that he will never forget. For grades K-3 and older readers. 1992. Mermaid Tales from around the World RC 38698 retold by Mary Pope Osborne read by George Holmes 1 cassette A collection of twelve water maid tales from a wealth of different cultures and times. The author notes that mermaids, unlike other women in folklore, are universally portrayed as fierce, strong characters. Includes the French "Mystery of Melusine," the Irish "The Enchanted Cap," the Nigerian "The Fish Husband," and Japanese, Persian, German, Greek, and Native American legends. For grades 3-6 and older readers. 1993. Merry-Go-Round: Four Stories RC 38386 by Mirra Ginsburg read by Mitzi Friedlander 1 cassette Four fables presented for very young readers. Includes "The Strongest of All," in which a lamb who falls goes searching for "the strongest of all"; and "What Kind of Bird Is That?" in which a vain and envious goose learns to appreciate her own gifts and talents. For preschool-grade 2. 1992. Noah's Cats and the Devil's Fire RC 39070 by Arielle North Olson read by Bob Askey 1 cassette In this Romanian folktale, the devil, determined to get aboard Noah's ark, disguises himself as a mouse. When Noah is unperturbed by his mischief, the devil-mouse hatches a plan to sink the ark. For preschool-grade 2. 1992. The Orphan Boy: A Maasai Story RC 36511 retold by Tololwa M. Mollel read by Harold Parker 1 cassette The old man is delighted that the orphan boy, Kileken, has come to his compound to live--and on the very night that one of the old man's beloved stars is missing from the sky. But how does the boy manage to find water and grazing lands for the cattle in the midst of the drought? Although cautioned that "a secret known to two is not a secret," the old man is overcome with curiosity about the boy's mysterious powers. For grades 2-4. 1990. The Prince in the Golden Tower RC 35592 by Florence Karpin read by Erik Sandvold 1 cassette The emperor lived in a castle of gold with his seven wives and forty-nine daughters. Yet, he was not happy he longed for a son. In that Eastern land only men were allowed to inherit the throne. Each day he begged the god Nurvah to send him a son, and he promised to give his gold to the poor. When at last a son was born, the emperor broke his promise, and kept little Sanjay locked away from knowledge of the world. For grades K-3 and older readers. 1989. The Prince of the Pond: Otherwise Known as De Fawg Pin RC 36636 by Donna Jo Napoli read by Madelyn Buzzard 1 cassette Jade, a female frog, meets the prince when he first becomes a frog. Pin (as the prince calls himself, hampered in his speech by a long, fat tongue) is handsome but strangely ignorant of the joys and dangers of being a frog. So Jade teaches him the ropes. Later, when a passing princess accidentally kisses him, he disappears from Jade's life, leaving her with fifty tadpoles to raise alone. For grades 3-6. 1992. A Promise to the Sun: An African Story RC 37642 by Tololwa M. Mollel read by Bill Quinn 1 cassette Long, long ago there was a severe drought. The birds held a meeting and chose their distant cousin, the Bat, to go in search of rain. The Bat persuaded the Sun to intervene with the promise that the birds would build the Sun a nest among the treetops. But after the rain, the birds did not keep their promise and Bat was driven by shame to hide from the Sun in a cave, never appearing during daylight. For grades K-3. 1992. Proud Knight, Fair Lady: The Twelve Lais of Marie de France RC 35799 translated by Naomi Lewis read by Michele Schaeffer 1 cassette In the twelfth century, four hundred years before Shakespeare, a poet known only as Marie of France wrote tales in verse known as lais or lays. Each of the twelve tales included in this collection is a love story set in a courtly world inhabited by brave knights, faithful ladies, and magical devices. For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1989. Rabbit Makes a Monkey of Lion: A Swahili Tale RC 38527 retold by Verna Aardema read by John Horton 1 cassette In this traditional African trickster tale, Lion forbids Rabbit to eat honey from his calabash tree. But with the help of her friends Turtle and Bush-rat, smart and nimble Rabbit makes a fool out of the mighty king of the forest. For grades K-3 and older readers. 1989. The Rainbow People RC 36672 retold by Laurence Yep read by John Stratton 1 cassette Twenty Chinese folktales selected and retold by the author from stories collected in Oakland, California, in the 1930s as part of a WPA project. The book is divided into sections such as "Tricksters," "Fools," and "Love," each of which is prefaced by a short explanation of how the tales relate to the Chinese-American experience. For grades 4-7 and older readers. 1989. Raven: A Trickster Tale from the Pacific Northwest RC 38685 by Gerald McDermott read by John Stratton 1 cassette Along the Pacific Northwest coast, Raven is the central character in the myths and legends of Native Americans. In this tale, Raven, feeling sad for the men and women living in the dark and cold, devises a clever plan to steal the sun from the Sky Chief to bring light and warmth to the people. For grades K-3 and older readers. 1993. Red Hunters and the Animal People RC 37176 by Charles A. Eastman read by Jill Ferris 1 cassette First published in 1904, this classic collection of twelve folktales from the Dakota people reflects Native American attitudes toward hunting and animals. Included are "Wechah the Provider," "The Sky Warrior," and "Hootay of the Little Rosebud." For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1904. Riches RC 36864 by Esther Hautzig read by Suzanne Toren 1 cassette Samuel, a wealthy shopkeeper, and his wife, Chaya-Rivka, retire after years of hard work. Not sure what to do with themselves, they seek the advice of a learned rabbi. Chaya-Rivka is to stay home and study. Samuel, however, is told to drive his horse and cart along the town's back roads, an endeavor that brings with it the realization that gifts from the heart, not the purse, bring the greatest joy and peace. For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1992. The Shoemaker and the Elves RC 36058 retold by Ilse Plume read by Barbara Rappaport 1 cassette (Reissue) A vivid retelling of the folktale about the kind shoemaker and the elves who do him a good deed and receive one in return. For grades K-3. 1991. Sky Legends of Vietnam RC 39151 by Lynette Dyer Vuong read by Mary Kane 1 cassette Vuong explains that stories of the sun, moon, and stars are found in folklore throughout the world. Likewise, these six Vietnamese folktales explore the relationship between humankind and legendary heavenly beings and explain celestial phenomena. Includes "Why the Rooster Crows at Sunrise," "How the Moon Became Ivory," and "The Seven Weavers." For grades 4-7 and older readers. 1993. A Small Tall Tale from the Far Far North RC 38565 by Peter S¡s read by Ed Blake 1 cassette Retells the adventures of Jan Welzl, a folk hero in Czechoslovakia who, as a young man, undertook a perilous journey to the Far North. Befriended by Eskimos who taught him how to live in the harsh Arctic, Welzl would later try to defend them against exploitation by foreigners who came for the gold rush and the fur trade. For grades K-3 and older readers. 1993. A Song of Stars RC 36786 retold by Tom Birdseye read by Laura Giannarelli 1 cassette In China the festival is called Chi Hsi or Festival of the Milky Way. In Japan it is called Tanabata, or Weaving Loom Festival. Both celebrate the tale, here retold, of how the princess weaver and the herdsman, lovers banished to opposite sides of the Milky Way, reunite each year on the seventh day of the seventh month. For grades 2-4 and older readers. 1990. Song of the Chirim¡a: A Guatemalan Folktale RC 36342 retold by Jane Anne Volkmer read by Juan Ramirez and Ilona Dulaski 1 cassette A young man tries to win the hand of a Mayan princess by making his songs as sweet as those of the birds. With the help of the Great Spirit, he discovers the music of the chirim¡a. A Guatemalan folktale retold in Spanish and English. For grades 2-4 and older readers. 1990. The Steadfast Tin Soldier RC 37511 by Hans Christian Andersen read by Kimberly Schraf 1 cassette (Reissue) After being accidentally launched on a dangerous and terrible voyage, the tin soldier with one leg finds his way back to his true love--the paper dancing girl. For grades K-3. 1986. Stories to Tell a Cat RC 39095 retold by Alvin Schwartz read by Bob Askey 1 cassette A collection of cat tales and poems mined from folklore around the world. Included are stories of monster cats, brave cats, magical cats, and foolish cats. The book also includes revealing source notes for the selections. For grades 3-6 and older readers. 1992. Sundiata: Lion King of Mali RC 36520 retold by David Wisniewski read by Harold Parker 1 cassette Sundiata becomes king of the west African kingdom of Mali in the thirteenth century, ushering in its glorious period. Although his greatness has been prophesied, it seems to many that he will never fulfill such a destiny. Sundiata cannot speak or walk as a young boy. But he overcomes physical disabilities, treachery, and disgrace to become the "lion king." For grades 4-7 and older readers. 1992. Tales of the Early World RC 36263 by Ted Hughes read by John Stratton 1 cassette Ten original creation myths by England's poet laureate, Ted Hughes. With a generous measure of humor, Hughes presents God as tired of working all the time and not incapable of making mistakes. For example, in "Leftovers," Lion, created right before dinner, absorbs a bit too much of God's hunger for sausage. And in "The Dancer," God's first try at a dancer results in Cat, his second in Mouse. For grades 5-8 and older readers. 1988. Three Strong Women: A Tall Tale from Japan RC 36301 retold by Claus Stamm read by John Stratton 1 cassette Forever-Mountain, a vain and boastful wrestler--said to be the best in Japan--is on his way to the capital city to wrestle before the emperor when he decides to tease Maru-me, a plump girl who is walking along the road with a bucket of water on her head. Maru-me convinces him to come to the farm where she, Mother, and Grandmother live so that they can make him a really strong man. For grades 2-4 and older readers. 1962. Traveling to Tondo: A Tale of the Nkundo of Zaire RC 36266 retold by Verna Aardema read by Robert Blumenfeld 1 cassette A humorous African folktale retold in rhythmic prose. On the way to his wedding in the town of Tondo, Bowane, a civet cat, gathers up his friends to serve as his attendants, and consequently experiences extraordinary delays. Bowane learns the hard way that "If a thing is not wise to do, it is best to say, `N-YEH!'" For grades K-3 and older readers. 1991. The Trojan Horse RC 38259 retold by Warwick Hutton read by Ronald B. Meyer 1 cassette Paris, son of the king of Troy, fell in love with Helen, the wife of the king of Sparta--a Greek city--and the Greeks and Trojans went to war. For ten long years the war raged, but the foes seemed equally matched. Then the Greeks appeared to suddenly withdraw, leaving in their wake an enormous wooden horse with painted eyes. A clear, simple retelling of the tragic Greek myth. For grades 2-4 and older readers. 1992. Tsugele's Broom RC 39090 by Valerie Scho Carey read by Pam Ward 1 cassette In the village of Potsk lives Tsugele, a strong and independent girl who takes loving care of her parents. When she comes of age to marry, Tsugele is simply not interested. She notes that with her broom she sweeps, chases cats, beats the rugs, and keeps the oven clean. And she insists that unless she finds a man as reliable as her broom, she will not marry. For preschool-grade 2. 1993. The Warrior and the Wise Man RC 36899 by David Wisniewski read by Michael Kramer 1 cassette In this original Japanese folktale, an emperor has twin sons--identical in their looks, but as different as night and day in their personalities. Tozaemon is heroic, fierce, and hailed the greatest warrior in the land. Toemon is quiet, thoughtful, and recognized as the wisest of the wise men. In order to determine the son that will succeed him, the emperor sends the twins on a quest for the five eternal elements. For grades 2-4 and older readers. 1989. A Wave in Her Pocket: Stories from Trinidad RC 36290 by Lynn Joseph read by Gail Nelson 1 cassette Six tales from the Caribbean island of Trinidad are colorfully told by Tantie Delphine to her grandnieces and grandnephews. The stories range from haunting narratives about the ligahoo and the jumbies to trickster tales of talking monkeys and a tender account of a lost love. For grades 3-6 and older readers. 1991. William Tell RC 36317 retold by Margaret Early read by Robert Blumenfeld 1 cassette A long time ago, the people of three tiny European countries, Schwytz, Uri, and Unterwalden, lost their freedom to Austria. Its mean emperor and evil governors, the most dreadful of whom was Gessler, ruled with an iron hand. Early retells the story of how William Tell shot an apple from his son's head, rid the land of Gessler, and led his compatriots to freedom and the founding of a new nation--Switzerland. For grades 2-4. 1991. Braille The Ballad of Belle Dorcas BR 8993 by William H. Hooks 1 volume Belle Dorcas was a pretty, free-issue girl (the offspring of a slave and her master) whose mother hoped that she would marry a free-issue man. But Belle was in love with Joshua, a prized slave, and it was Joshua whom she married. They lived as happily as slaves could live until the old master died and the new master decided to send Joshua to the auction block. So Belle went to a conjure woman for help. PRINT/BRAILLE. For grades 3-6 and older readers. 1990. Bury My Bones but Keep My Words: African Tales for Retelling BR 9454 retold by Tony Fairman 1 volume A collection of African folktales from a wide array of cultures across the continent. The tales are presented as if they are being told to present-day children who interrupt with questions and comments. Included is the ancient Egyptian tale "Zazamankh" that features the parting of the Red Sea, and "Omutugwa," a Kenyan tale reminiscent of "Cinderella." For grades 4-7 and older readers. 1991. Christopher: The Holy Giant BR 9912 by Tomie DePaola 1 volume Reprobus, a mighty giant, wants to serve the most powerful king in the world. After stints with a king, the devil, and a hermit who proclaims Christ the greatest king of all, Reprobus seeks to serve Christ. The hermit suggests that he serve by helping others across a dangerous river. One night he unknowingly carries Christ, and Reprobus becomes Christopher--bearer-of-Christ. PRINT/BRAILLE. For preschool-grade 2 and older readers. 1994. Disney's Aladdin BR 9208 retold by A.L. Singer 1 volume Retelling of the folktale Aladdin or the Wonderful Lamp. Evil Jafar, the sultan's key adviser, is determined to own the magic lamp that is hidden deep in the Cave of Wonder, into which only a Diamond in the Rough--a common person with shining qualities--may enter. Aladdin is such a person, and his kindness, honesty, intelligence, and sense of humor prove attractive to beautiful Princess Jasmine as well. For grades 2-4 and older readers. Bestseller 1992. Dreamcatcher BR 8983 by Audrey Osofsky 1 volume The Ojibway Indians of the northern Midwest believe in the special power of dreams. While good dreams are a source of knowledge, bad dreams forebode harm and ill will. In this lyrical story, big sister weaves baby a dream net for protection against bad dreams, as baby sleeps and the village community goes about its daily activities. PRINT/BRAILLE. For preschool-grade 2. 1992. Drummer Hoff BR 9915 by Barbara Emberley 1 volume A folk rhyme tells how soldiers work together to fire their cannon. Caldecott Medal. PRINT/BRAILLE. For grades K-3 and older readers. 1967. Fables BR 9914 by Arnold Lobel 1 volume Twenty original fables featuring an array of animal characters from kangaroos to crocodiles. PRINT/BRAILLE. For grades K-3 and older readers. Caldecott Medal. 1980. The Fortune-Tellers BR 8995 by LLoyd Alexander 1 volume Cameroon, West Africa. A young carpenter, tired of long labor and little pay, seeks out a fortune-teller to learn what his future holds. The cagey old prophet promises him a bright future--well, maybe. "Rich you will surely be...[if] you earn large sums of money," and a long, happy life will be his if it is not cut short by an early demise. The carpenter's life takes a surprising and humorous turn. PRINT/BRAILLE. For grades K-3. 1992. The Girl Who Loved Caterpillars: A Twelfth-Century Tale from Japan BR 8986 retold by Jean Merrill 1 volume Retelling of a Japanese tale (the ending has been lost). Izumi, the pretty daughter of a provincial inspector in the emperor's court, refuses to conform to standards of beauty and decorum. Preoccupied with "the original nature of things," Izumi loves caterpillars. She enjoys the company of peasant boys who supply her with caterpillars but attracts the attention of a nobleman. PRINT/BRAILLE. For preschool-grade 2. 1992. Mike Fink: A Tall Tale BR 9910 retold by Steven Kellogg 1 volume Born near the Allegheny Mountains, Mike Fink decided at the tender age of two days old that he hated being shut indoors and became a runaway. Mike saw the rugged keelboatmen, heard the tales of their mighty exploits, and decided he wanted to be one. The author retells the tall tale of Mike Fink, the most famous of the strong, rough, and rowdy keelboatmen. For grades K-3 and older readers. 1992. Native American Animal Stories BR 9415 retold by Joseph Bruchac 1 volume A collection of twenty-four animal stories from various native North American cultures. The foreword and introduction are valuable for understanding the messages of the stories. A glossary of key words and descriptions of tribal nations represented in the anthology are also included. For grades 5-8. 1992. Native American Animal Stories BR 9415 retold by Joseph Bruchac 1 volume A collection of twenty-four animal stories from various native North American cultures. The foreword and introduction are valuable for understanding the messages of the stories. A glossary of key words and descriptions of tribal nations represented in the anthology are also included. For grades 5-8. 1992. The Rainbabies BR 8994 by Laura Krauss Melmed 1 volume There was once an old couple that did not want for food or shelter, but longed to have a child of their own. They awakened one spring night to stand in a moonshower in the hope of receiving good fortune. To their surprise, they found twelve tiny babies in the raindrops. They loved the babies and protected them from dangers born of water, fire, and earth. And in the end they received a fitting reward. PRINT/BRAILLE. For grades K-3. 1992. The Samurai's Daughter: A Japanese Legend BR 8989 retold by Robert D. San Souci 1 volume A Japanese tale about the dauntless Tokoyo, whose beloved father has taught her samurai virtues, plus such "manly" arts as riding. Tokoyo insists on learning to dive for pearls--a traditional skill of some coastal women--despite her noble birth. When her father is unjustly exiled, Tokoyo follows, braving ghosts, battling a sea monster, and ending the curse that has caused the ruler's madness. PRINT/BRAILLE. For grades K-3. 1992. Seven Blind Mice BR 8960 by Ed Young 1 volume In this version of the familiar Indian folktale, seven blind mice approach Something, ask what it is, and proceed to investigate. On Monday, Red Mouse feels the leg and proclaims it a pillar. On Tuesday, Green Mouse jumps on the trunk and declares it a snake. Each succeeding day brings a different conclusion from a different mouse--until the seventh mouse scampers all over the creature and puts the clues together! PRINT/BRAILLE. For grades K-3. 1992. Tales from Silver Lands BR 9160 by Charles J. Finger 2 volumes The folk magic of a land of silver cascades, mist-shrouded mountains, and wide pampas fills these nineteen South American stories. For grades 4-7. Newbery Medal. 1924. The White Stag BR 9174 by Kate Seredy 1 volume The legendary story of Attila the Hun and the founding of Hungary--of a white stag and red eagle leading a people to their promised land. For grades 5-8. Newbery Medal. 1937. Why the Sky Is Far Away: A Nigerian Folktale BR 8992 retold by Mary-Joan Gerson 1 volume Long, long ago, people did not have to grow crops in the fields or hunt in the forests for food. The sky was so close and bountiful that one simply reached up and took a piece of the sky to eat. And the sky tasted like delicious fruits, meats, and vegetables. But the people grew wasteful and greedy, and the sky grew angry and sternly warned the Oba that the waste must cease at once. PRINT/BRAILLE. For grades K-3. 1974. Friendship Cassettes Amy's Pen Pal RC 38445 by Jamie Suzanne read by Kerry Cundiff 1 cassette Elizabeth Wakefield and Amy Sutton are best friends with big plans for the holiday weekend. But Amy's pen pal from San Francisco, Samantha Williams, shows up by surprise. Samantha seems as nice as her letters. Then she meets the Unicorns, a club of the most stuck-up girls at school that Elizabeth's twin started. Now Samantha tells exciting tales that leave Elizabeth and Amy feeling left out. Sweet Valley Twins and Friends for grades 3-6. 1990. Because She's My Friend RC 39085 by Harriet Sirof read by Martha Harmon Pardee 1 cassette Teresa D'Angelo, fourteen, from a large, supportive blue-collar family, meets Valerie Ross, a member of New York's upper crust, at the hospital where Teresa is working as a summer volunteer. Valerie, brassy and glamorous, has been partially paralyzed from a freak accident. Valerie helps foster Teresa's self-confidence, and Teresa rescues Valerie from depression during their brief, bittersweet friendship. For grades 5-8 and older readers. 1993. The Beggars' Ride RC 36621 by Theresa Nelson read by Madelyn Buzzard 2 cassettes Clare, twelve, runs away from her mother and her mother's boyfriend, who has sexually abused her. She goes to Atlantic City in search of Joey, her mother's old boyfriend and the one person who seemed to really care. She doesn't find Joey, but she finds a group of homeless kids who teach her how to survive. And A.J., an old man who sells hotdogs (and is Joey's father), teaches her about trust. Some strong language. For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1992. The Believers RC 36510 by Rebecca C. Jones read by Madelyn Buzzard 1 cassette Tibby worships her adoptive mother Veronica, an ambitious TV reporter who is rarely home--leaving Tibby with Aunt Evelyn. Tibby compensates by getting into trouble, until she becomes friends with Verl and Esther, members of a religious sect that rejects modern medicine. When Esther falls seriously ill, Verl brings her to Aunt Evelyn. Tibby must decide whether to keep Esther's condition a secret or let Veronica in on a story that she will exploit. For grades 5-8. 1989. Bingo Brown's Guide to Romance RC 37207 by Betsy Byars read by John Polk 1 cassette To pass the time, Bingo Brown has begun writing his Guide to Romance: A Record of the Personal Ups and Downs of Bingo Brown. It is dedicated to his younger brother, Jamie, for whom it is written. Before Bingo gets very far, however, a new romantic disaster occurs. Melissa, the love of his life and the only girl to smell of gingersnaps, returns to town unexpectedly. Sequel to Bingo Brown, Gypsy Lover (RC 32674). For grades 5-8. 1992. Caroline's Mystery Dolls RC 38419 by Molly Mia Stewart read by Kerry Cundiff 1 cassette Caroline Pearce, who's in the second grade with twins Jessica and Elizabeth Wakefield, is not well liked by her classmates. She tries to be the teacher's pet, and lately she's taken to bragging about her porcelain doll collection. When Jessica challenges Caroline to produce the dolls, she reluctantly agrees to bring them to school for "Show and Tell." But when Caroline opens her doll case, it's empty! A Sweet Valley Kids book for grades 2-4. 1991. Chicken Bucks RC 38791 by Susan Sharpe read by Kimberly Schraf 1 cassette Mark Swenson, twelve, longs to raise a prizewinning calf for the annual 4-H competition. But times are hard for farmers, and his folks won't be buying a calf this year. Disappointed, Mark opts for a less expensive project--raising fifty chickens. His friends tease him, but Mark is encouraged by his partnership with Emma Halvorsen (a classmate who's raising flowers and vegetables to sell), which reaps surprising results. For grades 5-8. 1992. Crazy Lady! RC 37956 by Jane Leslie Conly read by Phil Regensdorf 1 cassette Vernon Dibbs, still grieving over the death of his mother and barely noticed by his overworked father, is about to flunk the seventh grade. In his poor Baltimore neighborhood, he joins his friends in harassing Maxine, an alcoholic dubbed the "crazy lady," and her son, who is mentally retarded. But in exchange for tutoring from a retired teacher, Vernon begins to help and to grow fond of Maxine and Ronald. For grades 5-8 and older readers. 1993. Fool's Gold RC 38796 by Zilpha Keatley Snyder read by John Polk 1 cassette Fourteen-year-old Rudy Drummond has terrible nightmares about being locked in tight dark spaces and wants no part of Tyler Lewis's plan to explore some nearby abandoned gold mines. However, Rudy's best friend, daredevil Barney, is intrigued. Rudy spends the summer thinking up schemes that will keep the boys above-ground. He believes the plan to be unsafe, but Ty and Barney are determined to chance it anyway. For grades 5-8 and older readers. 1993. Freak the Mighty RC 38800 by Rodman Philbrick read by Bruce Huntey 1 cassette Maxwell Kane, a large, lumbering eighth-grader who calls himself a "butthead goon," has lived with his grandparents since his dad's imprisonment for killing his mom. Mean-spirited schoolmates and special ed have left him totally unprepared for a friendship with Kevin, who calls himself "Freak," a genius with a birth defect that has left his body small and weak. Through genuine comradery, the two become "Freak the Mighty." For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1993. Frog and Toad Together RC 37079 by Arnold Lobel read by Ray Hagen 1 cassette (Reissue) Five adventures of two best friends as they share cookies, plant a garden, and test their bravery. For preschool-grade 2. 1972. The Gift of the Girl Who Couldn't Hear RC 36215 by Susan Shreve read by Kimberly Schraf 1 cassette Eliza Westfield, always popular and a good student, reaches thirteen and, in her own words, "turns unpretty and unsmart and mean." She refuses to try out for the lead in Annie, the school musical, despite her talent and her dream of starring in the annual "big event." Her best friend Lucy, who is deaf, is eager for a part and Eliza agrees to coach her. Lucy's courage and determination help Eliza to accept herself. For grades 5-7 and older readers. 1991. Humbug RC 36737 by Nina Bawden read by Mary Woods 1 cassette Eight-year-old Cora is supposed to stay with her grandparents while her parents are away. But when her grandmother is injured in a fall, Cora is sent to stay with neighbors--sweet Aunt Sunday and her mean-spirited daughter, Angelica. Cora's only ally in the house is Angelica's seemingly senile grandmother, Ma Potter, who teaches Cora how to survive cruelty from the deceitful Angelica and how to recognize lies and "humbug." For grades 4-7. 1992. In Love with a Prince RC 38237 by Kate William read by Kerry Cundiff 1 cassette Arthur Castillo, crown prince of Santa Dora, is coming to Sweet Valley as part of a world tour just prior to his seventeenth birthday. Five years earlier, while in Sweet Valley as an exchange student, he and Elizabeth Wakefield had become friends and pen pals. Everyone at Sweet Valley High is excited about his upcoming visit, except for Dana Larson, lead singer of the Droids. A Sweet Valley High book for grades 6-9. 1993. Jessi's Gold Medal RC 38256 by Ann M. Martin read by Madelyn Buzzard 1 cassette Jessica Ramsey, eleven, is a member of the Baby-sitters Club (BSC). When she first moves to Stoneybrook, some of the people are really nasty to her and her family because they are African American. But after making friends with Mallory and joining the BSC, Jessi begins to love her new home. Jessi also loves ballet, and much to her surprise, she is asked to join the synchronized swimming team. A Baby-sitters Club book for grades 4-7. 1992. Jessica's Snobby Club RC 38326 by Molly Mia Stewart read by Kerry Cundiff 1 cassette Second-graders Elizabeth and Jessica Wakefield look identical, but act quite differently. When Jessica forms an exclusive club that she calls the Orchids, Elizabeth refuses to join the stuck-up group. Instead, she organizes her own club, the Sunflowers. Now the twins won't stop arguing about which club is better. A Sweet Valley Kids book for grades 2-4. 1992. Josie's Troubles RC 38674 by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor read by Nona Pipes 1 cassette New in the neighborhood, Josie feels insecure in her budding "best friendship" with Sarah, having just won Sarah away from Sarah's former best friend, Kimberly. When the girls accidentally break Sarah's mother's piano bench, they launch a pet-and-plant-sitting business to earn money to pay for the damages. They are in for more trouble than they ever imagined! But Kimberly saves the day. For grades 3-6. 1992. The Keepsake Chest RC 37823 by Katharine Wilson Precek read by Nona Pipes 1 cassette Meg Hamilton hates Ohio. She's moved from the suburbs of Denver to the rural Midwest where the nearest neighbor and town are miles away and malls do not exist. Then she meets her neighbor, Talley Gradey, and they become friends. When Meg finds an old trunk in the attic, she becomes fascinated with its history and contents, which include a document needed by the Gradeys to save their home. For grades 4-7 and older readers. 1992. Kidnapped by the Cult! RC 38225 by Kate William read by Kerry Cundiff 1 cassette Everything seems to be going wrong for Jessica Wakefield. She's mad at her boyfriend, her parents have grounded her, and no one seems to care about her. Then she meets Adam Marvel, the charismatic leader of the Good Friends. Adam understands, and he cares about her. When Jessica's twin, Elizabeth, hears that a dangerous cult is operating in Sweet Valley, she knows that Jessica is in trouble. A Sweet Valley High book for grades 6-9. 1992. Kidnapping Kevin Kowalski RC 35651 by Mary Jane Auch read by Andy Chappell 1 cassette Kevin Kowalski had been part of a happy threesome before a terrible bike accident. Now Ryan and Mooch are nervous about rekindling their friendship as Kevin struggles with his motor skills and memory. His greatest hindrance, however, is his overprotective mother. Ryan and Mooch "kidnap" Kevin for an overnight stay in the woods. During a dip in dangerous water Kevin must decide whether to "sink or swim" for the rest of his life. For grades 4-7. 1990. Learning by Heart RC 38714 by Ronder Thomas Young read by Gail Nelson 1 cassette Set in the South in the 1960s, this story describes the developing friendship between Rachel, a ten-year-old white child, and Isabella, the family's young African American maid hired to care for Rachel and her baby brother when they move into a new home. Rachel adjusts to her new sibling, deals with varied friendships at school, and comes to a dawning awareness of the racial prejudices in her small town. For grades 4-7 and older readers. 1993. Lester's Dog RC 38552 by Karen Hesse read by Michael Pinney 1 cassette On summer days after dinner when the narrator's mom shoos him out of the house, he waits on the front stoop for his friend, Corey, to come by. Corey is hearing-impaired and stubborn too, and today he is intent on walking past neighbor Lester's dog. That dog left a scar on the narrator's nose when he was six, and he is afraid. But Corey is on a mission to rescue an abandoned kitten--a mission that gives the narrator newfound courage. For grades K-3. 1993. Logan Bruno, Boy Baby-sitter RC 38186 by Ann M. Martin read by John Polk 1 cassette Logan Bruno, thirteen, is the first boy member of the Baby-sitters Club. He's teased about it at school, but the fact that Mary Anne, a club founder, is his girlfriend helps ease the pain. When Logan loses an important track meet for Stoneybrook Middle School, the teasing becomes big time. Logan jumps at the opportunity to hang out with T-Jam, one of the coolest kids around, and lands in big trouble. A Baby-sitters Club book for grades 4-7. 1993. Lucy Takes the Reins RC 38391 by Jamie Suzanne read by Kerry Cundiff 1 cassette Elizabeth Wakefield's friend Ted Rogers, a high school freshman and stable boy, may lose his beautiful horse, Thunder, because he's behind on stable fees. Ted's only hope is to win the prize money at the championships. When Ted is injured, Lucy Benson, a champion rider and a new friend and classmate of Elizabeth's, seems the answer. But Lucy's parents have forbidden her to ride again. A Sweet Valley Twins and Friends book for grades 3-6. 1991. Magical Hands RC 36512 by Marjorie Barker read by Andy Chappell 1 cassette William, who was a cooper or barrel maker, met for lunch each day with his three friends who all had shops near his cooperage. Vincent had a fruit stand, Philip kept a general store, and Adrian was the town baker. Each began their morning chores at sunrise. One day they idly discussed and wished for a magical tool that would do those tasks on their birthdays. And William found just such a tool. For preschool-grade 2. 1989. Mallory and the Dream Horse RC 38247 by Ann M. Martin read by Madelyn Buzzard 1 cassette Mallory Pike, eleven, and the eldest of eight siblings, used to feel taken advantage of when her parents asked her to babysit. But now that she's a member of the BSC (Baby-sitters Club), they schedule babysitting jobs just like her others. Mallory and Jessi, her best friend, love horses. They love reading and daydreaming about horses. That is, until Mallory starts taking riding lessons. A Baby-sitters Club book for grades 4-7. 1992. Mary Anne plus Two Many Babies RC 38233 by Ann M. Martin read by Madelyn Buzzard 1 cassette Mary Anne Spier, thirteen, and secretary of the Baby-sitters Club, has just acquired a sister. Dawn is thirteen, too, and she and Mary Anne are stepsisters. Mary Anne and Dawn think it would be great if their parents had a baby. But when Mary Anne and her friend Logan become "parents" of an egg "baby" for their Modern Living class, she learns that caring for a baby takes more responsibility than she imagined. A Baby-sitters Club book for grades 4-7. 1992. Mary Anne's Makeover RC 38217 by Ann M. Martin read by Madelyn Buzzard 1 cassette Mary Anne is one of seven girls in the Baby-sitters Club. She's convinced her dad to take her to the salon at Washington Mall so that she can get her long, mousy brown hair cut into a style from the pages of Seventeen magazine. Mary Anne is pleasantly surprised by how nice the haircut makes her look, but her biggest surprise is the reaction of the other members of the club. A Baby-sitters Club book for grades 4-7. 1993. Matthew Pinkowski's Special Summer RC 36477 by Patrick Quinn read by Michael Kramer 1 cassette Matthew Pinkowski, thirteen, has always loved summers, and the first summer in his new hometown proves to be a great one. Matthew rescues a neighborhood boy from a runaway car and is declared a hero! He and Tommy, who, like Matthew, has a learning disability, become fast friends, along with Tommy's sister, Sandy, and Laura, who is deaf and is visiting relatives for the summer. Together they enjoy a host of adventures. For grades 4-7. 1991. Mirette on the High Wire RC 36482 by Emily Arnold McCully read by Madelyn Buzzard 1 cassette The Great Bellini, who crossed Niagara Falls on a tightrope and stopped in the middle to cook an omelette, who crossed the Alps with baskets on his feet, and who walked a flaming wire in Naples, is the gentle stranger staying at the widow Gƒteau's boardinghouse. Mirette, the widow's daughter, has befriended Bellini, and he has taught her to walk the wire. Now, she must teach him to overcome his fear. For grades K-3. Caldecott Medal 1992. Mrs. Katz and Tush RC 36799 by Patricia Polacco read by Ilona Dulaski 1 cassette It is the beginning of a long friendship between Mrs. Katz, who is Jewish, elderly, widowed, childless, and lonely, and her young neighbor Larnel, who is African-American, when he presents her with a scraggly kitten. During his daily visits with Mrs. Katz and Tush--the kitten--Larnel talks with Mrs. Katz about her husband, her coming to the United States from Poland, and the similar experiences of Jews and African Americans. For grades K-3. 1992. The Mushroom Man RC 39174 by Ethel Pochocki read by Suzanne Toren 1 cassette The children tease him and call him the "mushroom man." The man, who works in a mushroom farm--a long, low, windowless building where mushrooms grow in the dark and everything smells of mold--indeed resembles his crop. He has an oversized head and pale, spongy flesh. A cheerful person, he ignores the children and the grown-ups who snicker at him on the street. But sometimes he feels the ache of loneliness. For preschool-grade 2. 1993. The Noonday Friends RC 37435 by Mary Stolz read by Janet Kirker 1 cassette (Reissue) Unlike other eleven-year-olds, Franny and her best friend Simone don't have time to play. Franny's father can't hold a job, and her mother must work hard to keep the family together. Franny must do the housework and care for her younger siblings. Simone must do the same to help her family, so the two friends share only their lunchtimes together. For grades 5-8. 1965. Princess Elizabeth RC 39008 by Jamie Suzanne read by Kerry Cundiff 1 cassette Jessica Wakefield, who is quite unlike her thoughtful, quiet twin sister, Elizabeth, has suddenly taken an interest in the country of Santa Dora. Arthur Castle, a handsome exchange student, will soon be joining their sixth-grade class at Sweet Valley Middle School. Arthur, who is a prince, wants more than anything to be treated just like an ordinary kid. A Sweet Valley Twins and Friends book for grades 3-6. 1989. Randall's Wall RC 36528 by Carol Fenner read by Madelyn Buzzard 1 cassette Randall Lord is smelly and dirty, and the rest of the kids in the fifth grade won't have anything to do with him. What no one seems to know is that his father is abusive and gone most of the time, his mother is too afraid to leave the house, and the Lords have no running water or bathtub. Randall, a talented artist, retreats into a dream world until his friendship with Jean, a brash classmate, provides a way out. For grades 5-8. 1991. Rosebud and Red Flannel RC 36355 by Ethel Pochocki read by Laura Giannarelli 1 cassette Rosebud, a beautiful, handmade, lace nightgown, is very snobbish and thinks herself far too good to talk to Red Flannel, a shy pair of long johns off the "irregular" table. Red Flannel's efforts to capture Rosebud's attention during their weekly hang on the clothesline only make him the laughingstock of the socks, aprons, and underpants. But when a fierce snowstorm threatens their lives, Rosebud comes to love Red Flannel. For grades K-3. 1989. Silver RC 37105 by Norma Fox Mazer read by Janet Kirker 2 cassettes Finding friends in a new junior high school was going to be hard for Sarabeth Silver, who lived on the wrong side of the tracks. Then, by slightly twisting the truth, Sarabeth becomes acquainted with rich, sophisticated Grant Varrow, the one girl she really wants to know. Sarabeth quickly falls into Grant's circle of friends. Only one, Patty, remains distant. Then she tells Sarabeth that she is being sexually abused. For grades 6-9. 1988. Sort of Sisters RC 36670 by Stacie Johnson read by Gail Nelson 1 cassette Eighteen Pine Street is a pizzeria that is owned by Mr. and Mrs. Harris. Kids from Murphy High hang out there. The "life of the party" is Sarah, who has a winning smile and is a great friend. Kwame belongs to the crew, and he's one of its smartest members. Blond April, Dave (Sarah's neighbor), and Cindy (who's from Jamaica) are also part of the group. Now Tasha, Sarah's sexy cousin, has just moved in. An 18 Pine St. novel. For grades 4-7 and older readers. 1992. Stacey and the Mystery of Stoneybrook RC 37774 by Ann M. Martin read by Madelyn Buzzard 1 cassette Stacey McGill, treasurer of the Baby-sitters Club, lives in Stoneybrook, Connecticut, with her mom but spends lots of time in New York City with her dad. One weekend, while baby-sitting for Charlotte, her favorite charge, the two decide to visit an old house that is being torn down. What they see and hear convinces Stacey that the house is haunted, and the club members set out to investigate. For grades 4-7. 1990. Summer Wheels RC 37413 by Eve Bunting read by John Lescault 1 cassette The Bicycle Man fixes up old bikes and lends them to the neighborhood kids with just two rules: they must be returned by four o'clock, and if they break, the kids must fix them. Lawrence, the narrator, and his friend Brady spend their summer days riding. When a new kid doesn't return a bike, they find him and make him take it back. In the process they learn that his toughness is just a mask, and that the Man cares more about kids than bicycles. For grades 2-4. 1992. The Sweet Valley Cleanup Team RC 38407 by Molly Mia Stewart read by Kerry Cundiff 1 cassette Identical twins Elizabeth and Jessica Wakefield, second-graders at Sweet Valley Elementary School, are different in many ways, but share a love for greenery. When their father tells them about a group called Keep Sweet Valley Sweet that intends to turn a deserted lot into a park, they convince their teacher to make helping out a class project. But Bruce Patman's father has other plans for the lot. A Sweet Valley Kids book for grades 2-4. 1992. Take a Chance, Gramps! RC 36795 by Jean Davies Okimoto read by Ilona Dulaski 1 cassette Janie Higgins suffers the loss of her best and only friend when outgoing Alicia moves away right at the dreaded start of junior high. The slack in her social life is soon taken up by a new project of her mother's intended to rouse her recently widowed grandfather from his grief: Janie takes Gramps to the Seattle Center, where they discover a weekly senior citizens' dance and a teenage boy who brings his grandmother. For grades 5-7. 1990. Those Summer Girls I Never Met RC 37948 by Richard Peck read by Phil Regensdorf 1 cassette Drew, sixteen, and his best friend Bates had been fantasizing for months about a summer filled with fun, cars, and girls when Drew's mother burst his bubble by telling him that he and his fourteen-year-old sister, Steph, are expected to spend the summer with their never-before-seen grandmother on a cruise from London to Leningrad. Much to their surprise they become attached to their svelte grandmother, a singer-entertainer. For grades 6-9. 1988. Tunes for Bears to Dance To RC 37045 by Robert Cormier read by Ardyth Heller 1 cassette Henry, eleven, is largely on his own after his brother's death--his family has moved to a new city, his father is severely depressed, and his mother waitresses long hours to support the family. In this vacuum, Henry attracts the attention of his employer, Mr. Hairston, a grocer who is evil and mean-spirited. He compels Henry to betray the friendship of Mr. Levine by destroying Levine's wooden model of his village that was wiped out in the Holocaust. For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1992. Underrunners RC 36635 by Margaret Mahy read by David Palmer 1 cassette Tris, eleven, dreams of adventures with intergalactic agents and lives with his artistic, hippy father in a messy house at the end of a bleak New Zealand peninsula. His mother left long ago. Things change when he makes friends with savvy Winola and helps her run away from the children's home, where she is being stalked. The stalker turns out to be her father, disturbed and violent, who kidnaps both kids at gunpoint. For grades 5-7 and older readers. 1992. Words of Stone RC 36970 by Kevin Henkes read by Phil Regensdorf 1 cassette Gentle, imaginative Blaze is full of fears that date back to his mother's death. He can't swim, is afraid of dogs and ferris wheels, and is unable to confide in his dad or paint on the canvas his dad has given him. Brash Joselle has been dumped on her grandmother (Blaze's neighbor) by her mother, "The Beautiful Vicki," after she meets another man. The two form a tentative friendship until Blaze catches Joselle in a lie. For grades 4-7 and older readers. 1992. Braille An Angel for Solomon Singer BR 8977 by Cynthia Rylant 1 volume Solomon Singer loved Indiana where he grew up. There he had a fireplace and pets, and there was lots of room for wandering. Now he lives in a lonely hotel for men in New York City. The hotel has none of the things that he loves, and he does not love where he lives. So at night he wanders in the streets thinking of Indiana. One night he happens upon the Westway Cafe, where he finds a friend and feels welcome. PRINT/BRAILLE. For grades 2-4. 1992. Chicken Sunday BR 8971 by Patricia Polacco 1 volume The narrator, a young girl of Russian-Jewish ancestry, is best friends with Stewart and Winston, who are African Americans, and considers their gramma, Miss Eula, her gramma, since her babushka has died. She sometimes goes with her friends to the Baptist church where Miss Eula sings "like slow thunder and sweet rain." When the children hear Miss Eula wish for the Easter hat in Mr. Kodinski's shop, they plot to buy it for her. PRINT/BRAILLE. For grades K-3. 1992. Finding David Dolores BR 9170 by Margaret Willey 1 volume Arly, thirteen, is at odds with her mother and with growing up. Solitary and aloof, she finds herself drawn to an older boy she admires from afar. David Dolores is handsome and talented, and Arly's determination to find out all that she can about him gives her life new meaning. Enter Regina, a new girl at school and a self-styled outcast. They become fast friends, and Arly shares her feelings about David. For junior and senior high readers. 1986. The Foxman BR 9530 by Gary Paulsen 1 volume A boy is sent by a judge to live with the boy's uncle on a farm in northern Minnesota. While fox hunting, the boy and his cousin, Carl, take shelter in the shack of a man with a horribly mutilated face--so hideous that he keeps it covered with a mask. Happy to leave the next morning, the boy remains curious about the man, who is kind and generous, and returns to learn more about him. For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1977. Henry and Mudge and the Long Weekend: The Eleventh Book of Their Adventures BR 9547 by Cynthia Rylant 1 volume Henry and his big dog, Mudge, wake up to a cold, wet, muddy, gray Saturday morning--with no sun or snow--that promises a boring weekend. After a boring breakfast, boring cartoons, and a round of Henry's father's boring jokes, Mudge cannot stay awake. Then Mom has an idea that adds spice to the day! A Henry and Mudge book. For grades K-3. 1992. Logan Bruno, Boy Baby-sitter BR 9467 by Ann M. Martin 1 volume Logan Bruno, thirteen, is the first boy member of the Baby-sitters Club. He's teased about it at school, but the fact that Mary Anne, a club founder, is his girlfriend helps ease the pain. When Logan loses an important track meet for Stoneybrook Middle School, the teasing becomes big time. Logan jumps at the opportunity to hang out with T-Jam, one of the coolest kids around, and lands in big trouble. A Baby-sitters Club book for grades 4-7. 1993. Mary Anne's Makeover BR 9465 by Ann M. Martin 1 volume Mary Anne is one of seven girls in the Baby-sitters Club. She's convinced her dad to take her to the salon at Washington Mall so that she can get her long, mousy brown hair cut into a style from the pages of Seventeen magazine. Mary Anne is pleasantly surprised by how nice the haircut makes her look, but her biggest surprise is the reaction of the other members of the club. A Baby-sitters Club book for grades 4-7. 1993. Mirette on the High Wire BR 8962 by Emily Arnold McCully 1 volume The Great Bellini--who crossed Niagara Falls on a tightrope and stopped in the middle to cook an omelette, who crossed the Alps with baskets on his feet and walked a flaming wire in Naples--is the gentle stranger staying at the widow Gƒteau's boardinghouse. Mirette, the widow's daughter, has befriended Bellini, and he has taught her to walk the wire. Now, she must teach him to overcome his fear. PRINT/BRAILLE. For grades K-3. Caldecott Medal. 1992. Onion John BR 9631 by Joseph Krumgold 2 volumes Andy Rusch befriends Onion John, the town's old odd-job man who lives near the city dump. Andy's father cannot understand Andy's affection for Onion John, and conflict develops when Mr. Rusch tries to reform Onion John. For grades 5-8 and older readers. Newbery Medal 1959. Pardon Me, You're Stepping on My Eyeball! BR 9185 by Paul Zindel 2 volumes "Marsh" Mellow and Edna Shinglebox, both fifteen, meet in the therapy group at Curtis Lee High School on Staten Island. Marsh is in therapy because he won't accept the death of his father and has become a compulsive liar. Edna is "normal," though persecuted by her mother because she hasn't had a boyfriend. They help each other move toward self-acceptance. Strong language. For junior and senior high readers. 1976. Silver BR 9376 by Norma Fox Mazer 2 volumes Finding friends in a new junior high school was going to be hard for Sarabeth Silver, who lived on the wrong side of the tracks. Then, by slightly twisting the truth, Sarabeth becomes acquainted with rich, sophisticated Grant Varrow, the one girl she really wants to know. Sarabeth quickly falls into Grant's circle of friends. Only one, Patty, remains distant. Then she tells Sarabeth that she is being sexually abused. For grades 6-9. 1988. Sunny-Side Up BR 9554 by Patricia Reilly Giff 1 volume Richard "Beast" Best and his friend Matthew Jackson plan to have the best summer yet, until they learn that Matthew will be moving away. Will hiding Matthew in the Bests' garage keep their summer from being ruined? A Kids of the Polk Street School book for grades 2-4. 1986. The Up and Down Spring BR 9874 by Johanna Hurwitz 1 volume Bolivia Raab, soon to be eleven, invites her two best friends from New Jersey, Rory Dunn and Derek Curry, to spend spring break with her in upstate New York. Rory tries to hide his dread of flying when Bolivia's uncle, Harold, invites them for a spin in his small plane. For grades 3-6. 1993. The Wedding of Brown Bear and White Bear BR 9911 by Martine Beck 1 volume Brown Bear, who lives alone, is an excellent fisherman, cook, and skier. And while he is generally a happy sort of guy, sometimes at night he feels a tinge of loneliness. That is, until he sees beautiful White Bear skating on the pond. He dreams of her. They meet, and soon they are spending all of their time together. PRINT/BRAILLE. For preschool-grade 2. 1989. General Cassettes Aunt Isabel Tells a Good One RC 37341 by Kate Duke read by Celeste Lawson 1 cassette When Penelope asks Aunt Isabel to tell her a good story, Aunt Isabel carefully delineates exactly what they will need to accomplish such a feat, as they weave a tale of Prince Augustus and Lady Nell. They begin with a when and a where, they add a who, some romance, and a problem, and they create a charming adventure. For grades K-3. 1992. A Bone from a Dry Sea RC 38060 by Peter Dickinson read by Marcia Churchill 2 cassettes Based on a theory of evolution that humankind evolved from semiaquatic, ape-like mammals. The author tells of two girls linked by a scattering of fossils but born more than four million years apart. Li, a hominid who lives with her tribe by the sea, is keen and inventive. Vinny, bright and strong-willed, is spending the summer on a dig with her father near the area where Li once lived. For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1992. Cornrows RC 37862 by Camille Yarbrough read by Gail Nelson 1 cassette Every evening Shirley Ann (whom everyone calls Sister) and Mike (whom everyone calls Brother) hear one of Mama's or Great-Grammaw's stories. Yesterday, when Great-Grammaw was braiding Mama's hair into cornrows, she talked about that hairstyle. She explained that braids were an African symbol, that the various styles had special meanings, and that cornrows survived slavery to again become a symbol of black pride. For grades K-3 and older readers. 1979. A Fine White Dust RC 37796 by Cynthia Rylant read by Jack Fox 1 cassette Unlike his parents or Rufus, his "hard-nosed atheist" best friend, Pete Cassidy has been an ardent churchgoer for years. When a traveling preacher man named Carson arrives in their small North Carolina town, Pete is swept up in a tide of devotion and discipleship. For grades 6-9. 1986. Fish Soup RC 36679 by Ursula K. Le Guin read by John Horton 1 cassette The "Thinking Man of Moha" and the "Writing Woman of Maho" are friends. The man is obsessively neat and the woman is habitually messy. Nevertheless, they visit each other for conversation and meals of fish soup. The man suggests that they have a child (to carry messages and finish dessert) and the woman agrees. Two nearly grown children materialize, who distinctly manifest the expectations of the man and woman. For grades 3-6 and older readers. 1992. Taste of Salt: A Story of Modern Haiti RC 37094 by Frances Temple read by Gordon Gould 1 cassette Djo, a seventeen-year-old bodyguard of Haitian leader Jean-Bertrand Aristide, tells his story from his hospital bed where he is recuperating from a beating from the "Tonton Macoutes"--thugs of deposed dictator Duvalier. Djo tells Jeremie, a young woman, of rescue from the streets by Father Aristide, enslavement in the Dominican Republic, escape, and reunion with Aristide. For junior and senior high readers. 1992. We All Fall Down RC 37011 by Robert Cormier read by Don Emmick 2 cassettes Jane Jerome and her family come home to find that vandals have destroyed their possessions, urinated on their walls, and left fourteen-year-old Karen in a coma at the bottom of the stairs. A deranged neighbor, who styles himself The Avenger, has witnessed the trashing and secretly vows to track down the four teens. Jane meets and falls in love with Buddy Walker, one of the vandals. Violence. For junior and senior high and older readers. 1991. A Hero Ain't Nothin' but a Sandwich BR 9354 by Alice Childress 1 volume The story of Benjie Johnson, a thirteen-year-old heroin addict in Harlem, is told from various viewpoints, including his own. Benjie tells of his introduction to drugs and his feelings about school, his mother, his grandmother, his stepfather, his best friend Jimmy-Lee Powell, and himself. We also hear the voices of these individuals as they reveal Benjie's story and their own ideas about life. Strong language. For junior and senior high readers. 1973. Braille The House on Maple Street BR 9627 by Bonnie Pryor 1 volume Crissy and Jenny, their mother and father, and their dog and cat live at 107 Maple Street. Over the last 300 years, however, many people have passed by or lived on that very same spot. When the family finds a tiny china cup and an arrowhead, they wonder about the people who left them. For grades 2-4. 1987. Growing Up Cassettes Against the Storm RC 38136 by Gaye Hi‡yilmaz read by Ed Blake 1 cassette For twelve-year-old Mehmet, the thought of leaving his Turkish village, especially in the springtime, is very painful. His family, however, is tired of subsistence farming and envies the success of Uncle Yusuf, who moved to the city and came back driving a red Mercedes. When the family packs up and moves to Ankara, the uncle overcharges them for rooms in a shantytown and gives them menial factory jobs with little pay. For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1990. Alice in April RC 37195 by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor read by Kerry Cundiff 1 cassette When Aunt Sally writes Alice reminding her that she will soon be a teenager and "the woman of the house," Alice feels pressured. She also feels helpless at school. The boys in her class have started naming girls after U.S. states, based on their anatomy. Alice is sensitive about her changing body and about her first physical examination. On top of all this, a schoolmate commits suicide. Companion to All about Alice (RC 35260). For grades 5-8. 1993. Almost Ten and a Half RC 36687 by Candice F. Ransom read by Janet Kirker 1 cassette Kobie Roberts is sick and tired of parental control. She's tired of eating when others say that she must; she's tired of having a bedtime; and she's especially tired of having to do her homework. After all, she's nearly ten-and-a-half, and that's plenty big. When her mother is hospitalized, and Mrs. Blevins, a nice older lady, is hired to care for the house, Kobie figures that now is the time to live as she wishes. For grades 4-7. 1990. Annie's Promise RC 36853 by Sonia Levitin read by Catherine Byers 1 cassette Continuing the saga of the Platt family that began in Journey to America (RC 32959), this is Annie's story. The youngest of the three daughters in this German-Jewish immigrant family, Annie is almost thirteen. The year is 1945, and Annie, who longs for independence, has been invited to a summer camp run by Quakers. Sequel to Silver Days (RC 32960). For grades 5-8 and older readers. 1993. Are You There, God? It's Me, Margaret. RC 37405 by Judy Blume read by Madelyn Buzzard 1 cassette (Reissue) Margaret is lonely after her parents buy a new house in Farbrook, New Jersey. Because she is from the city, the new girls expect her to be more grown up than they are, but Margaret's body hasn't begun to mature yet and she's never kissed a boy. For grades 4-7. 1970. Baseball in April and Other Stories RC 37667 by Gary Soto read by Michael Pinney 1 cassette Eleven vignettes set in central California feature young Mexican Americans going about the business of growing up. Fausto, who longs for a guitar, fraudulently receives a hefty reward when he returns a stray pet to a wealthy neighbor, but he is guilt-ridden until he relinquishes the money in church. And Marie, who declines a boring family vacation, is angry that fun was had without her. For grades 5-8 and older readers. 1990. Blue Skin of the Sea: A Novel in Stories RC 38728 by Graham Salisbury read by J.P. Linton 2 cassettes Eleven short stories revealing episodes from Sonny Mendoza's youth provide glimpses of village life in Hawaii's Kailua-Kona in the 1950s and early 1960s. Themes of family and friendship reverberate throughout, as Mendoza searches for an elusive memory that holds the key to his terror of the ocean--making him and others doubt his place among the men of the sea. For grades 5-8 and older readers. 1992. The Brave RC 37362 by Robert Lipsyte read by Richard Davidson 1 cassette Sonny Bear--part Native American, part white--is rejected by both worlds. Tired of being a "nobody," Sonny leaves the Moscondaga reservation to find his artist mother in New York City. There he is picked up by two hustlers who steal his wallet, and he foils a drug bust for narcotics sergeant Alfred Brooks, a former boxer who sees Sonny's talent. Sequel to The Contender (RC 26357). For junior and senior high readers. 1991. Canyons RC 36800 by Gary Paulsen read by Scott Sedar 1 cassette In 1864 young Apache brave Coyote Runs, cornered in a canyon, is shot by U.S. soldiers during the raid that was to make him a man. Over one hundred years later, his skull, with a hole through its forehead, is discovered by Brennan Cole, a fifteen-year-old loner who is camping in the canyons outside El Paso, Texas. Brennan is compelled to learn the story behind the skull and to bring peace to Coyote Runs's restless spirit. For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1990. Come Next Spring RC 36040 by Alana White read by Kerry Cundiff 1 cassette The year is 1949 and postwar America is beset with changes. Salina Harris, twelve, does not like change. She does not like the changes taking place in her family or in her friendship with Mayella, her longtime "best friend." She does not like the state's plan to change her farming community with a highway. And she does not like the new girl, Scooter, whose father was killed in the war. For grades 6-9. 1990. A Day No Pigs Would Die RC 37104 by Robert Newton Peck read by Nick Sullivan 1 cassette (Reissue) Explores the problems of growing up on a Shaker farm in Vermont in the 1920s. The story concerns a young boy's pig--its growth, blue ribbon, and inevitable slaughter. Surrounding this are details of farm life, Yankee jokes, and family memories. For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1972. The Day That Elvis Came to Town RC 36963 by Jan Marino read by Virginia Kearns 1 cassette Georgia, 1964. Wanda hates her father's drinking problem and the strain it puts on the family. She also hates taking in boarders to make ends meet. But her feelings change when she finds out that glamorous Mercedes Washington, a singer and their newest lodger, went to school with Elvis Presley--whom Wanda dreams of meeting. Then her mean-spirited aunt reveals that light-skinned Mercedes is an African American. For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1991. Dear Nobody RC 37046 by Berlie Doherty read by Nancy Kronenfeld 1 cassette Helen and Chris narrate the consequences of one night's passion that change the course of their lives forever. With teen parenthood superimposing itself upon college plans, both voice fear, disbelief, and confusion. Chris wants them to marry; Helen's mother wants Helen to have an abortion. Helen accedes to her mother's pressure, but, left alone at the clinic, she returns home to make her own decisions. For junior and senior high readers. 1991. Devil's Bridge RC 37491 by Cynthia DeFelice read by Michael Kramer 1 cassette Ben's father died a year ago, and Ben despises Barry, his mother's new friend. Barry's not tough like Captain Daggett, Ben's father, who holds the record in the annual Martha's Vineyard Striped Bass Derby. Ben is proud of his father's record and of the derby. When Ben overhears a plot to win the derby by cheating, he alerts the authorities to no avail. Barry, however, provides what is needed to stop the fraud. For grades 3-6. 1992. Dinah for President RC 38022 by Claudia Mills read by Lynn Schrichte 1 cassette Dinah Seabrooke has just entered middle school--and she's struggling to impress and make a mark for herself. Consequently, she decides to run for president of the sixth-grade class. Her mother has also enlisted her aid in a project with Seabrooke Organizing, Incorporated. Through it all, Dinah finds friendship and learns to appreciate elderly persons and the environment. For grades 3-6. 1992. Dreams of Forever RC 34972 by Diana Gregory read by Marilyn Gleason 1 cassette Caitlin Ryan, with her college degree in tow, is off to New York to pursue a career in journalism. Jed Michaels, her steady, is also in New York starting law school. They are sure that they will be in love forever. But when Jed becomes sullen and withdrawn after a family tragedy and Caitlin accepts a top modeling job with a cosmetics company, their "forever love" seems to be crumbling away. For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1987. Dreams of Victory RC 37603 by Ellen Conford read by Kerry Cundiff 1 cassette (Reissue) Victory begins to feel that her name is a cruel joke and that she's not much good at anything, so she daydreams about success--as Miss America, as a millionaire, and even as the first woman president. For grades 4-7. 1973. Durango Street RC 37122 by Frank Bonham read by Christopher Hurt 1 cassette (Reissue) Rufus Henry, on probation after leaving the Pine Valley Honor Camp, finds himself with the difficult choice of being stalked and attacked by a gang or joining a gang and staying alive. Rufus joins the Moors and becomes a leader within days. When youth worker Alex Robbins becomes involved with the Moors, an unlikely change gradually takes place. For junior and senior high readers. 1965. Earth to Matthew RC 37089 by Paula Danziger read by Michael Pinney 1 cassette Sixth-grader Matthew Martin discovers girls. More specifically, he discovers classmate and pal Jil! Hudson, seeing her in a new light and finding the attraction mutual. The two are teamed on a committee as part of their class study of ecology, a project that becomes important as the students really try to make an impact on their school, homes, and community. Sequel to Make like a Tree and Leave (RC 37088). For grades 4-7 and older readers. 1991. Everyone Else's Parents Said Yes RC 37087 by Paula Danziger read by Michael Pinney 1 cassette Computer whiz Matthew Martin is eagerly planning a sleep-over for his eleventh birthday. Meanwhile, practical jokester Matthew Martin is steadfastly becoming the target for GET HIM (Girls Eager To Halt Immature Matthew). When the sleep-over and the war against Matthew take place on the same night, Matthew finds himself having to do some quick thinking--and growing up. Prequel to Make like a Tree and Leave (RC 37088). For grades 4-7. 1989. The Harmony Arms RC 37270 by Ron Koertge read by Robert Sams 1 cassette When his mother decides to go away with her boyfriend, Gabriel, fourteen, and his father fly to Los Angeles from their home in Indiana for a month-long visit. Gabriel's father, a teacher-writer, parlayed a book about Timmy the Otter, a hand puppet, into a movie contract. Timmy is a source of unending embarrassment for Gabriel. At Harmony Arms, the condo in which they stay, they meet a cast of unusual characters. For junior and senior high readers. 1992. The Haymeadow RC 36646 by Gary Paulsen read by John Stratton 1 cassette Fourteen-year-old John Barron must take 6,000 sheep up to the summer pasture where he's to care for them by himself for three months. Although he is not sure he can handle the job, John feels he has no choice: his father must remain in town, and the hired man must tend the rest of the ranch. John's father made the trip at age fifteen, and his great-grandfather claimed their vast spread when he was only eighteen. For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1992. A Hero Ain't Nothin' but a Sandwich RC 37215 by Alice Childress read by Barry Bernson 1 cassette (Reissue) The story of Benjie Johnson, a thirteen-year-old heroin addict in Harlem, is told from various viewpoints, including his own. Benjie tells of his introduction to drugs and his feelings about school, his mother, his grandmother, his stepfather, his best friend Jimmy-Lee Powell, and himself. We also hear the voices of these individuals as they reveal Benjie's story and their own ideas about life. Strong language. For junior and senior high readers. 1973. The Leaving and Other Stories RC 36673 by Budge Wilson read by Janet Kirker 1 cassette The agony and ecstasy of adolescence are captured in these nine short stories, each with a female protagonist. In the title story, a girl and her mother flee their oppressive home life on the farm for three seminal days in the city. Other stories tell of the embarrassment of a first crush and the rivalry between friends that leads to betrayal. For grades 6-9 and older readers. Canadian Young Adult Award. 1990. Make like a Tree and Leave RC 37088 by Paula Danziger read by Michael Pinney 1 cassette As chairman of the mummy committee for the Egypt project, Matthew Martin thinks that wrapping up Brian in plaster gauze to make a mummy cast is a good idea. Wrong again! Then the class learns that Mrs. Nichols, a friend and school supporter, has fallen and broken her hip. They write notes and tape messages that show they care but learn she must sell her farm to pay her medical bills. Sequel to Everyone Else's Parents Said Yes (RC 37087). For grades 4-7. 1990. Me First RC 37139 by Helen Lester read by Laura Giannarelli 1 cassette Pushy Pinkerton always had to be first. That is, until a Pig Scout camping trip, when he rushes off from the pack to be first upon hearing a faint voice call, "Care for a sandwich?" To his morbid surprise, Pinkerton finds himself the caretaker of a Sandwitch--a small creature that lives in the sand. For preschool-grade 2. 1992. Missing May RC 36384 by Cynthia Rylant read by Kerry Cundiff 1 cassette Orphaned at six and raised by an elderly West Virginia aunt and uncle with more devotion than money, Summer is twelve years old when Aunt May dies. While Summer's grief is profound, Uncle Ob seems absolutely unable to go on living without his beloved May; that is, until he decides that her presence lingers nearby and that somehow he can contact her. Disappointed in his efforts, Uncle Ob comes to choose living over mourning. Newbery Medal. For grades 5-8. 1992. Monday I Love You RC 39232 by Constance C. Greene read by Nona Pipes 1 cassette Grace Schmitt, fifteen, and her size 38D bosom are the object of derision from her peers. Cruelly, a group of girls tear off her blouse to see if her figure is real. Her parents ignore her, but a sympathetic gym teacher helps Grace to gain self-esteem. A bizarre encounter with a suspected robber on the run--who may be William, her childhood friend--encourages Grace to change her life. For junior and senior high readers. 1988. The Monument RC 37068 by Gary Paulsen read by Janet Daley 1 cassette Figuring she'll never get adopted because of her caramel-colored skin; tight, curly hair; and disabled leg, Rocky is surprised to be chosen by Emma and Fred, a kind, alcoholic couple from Bolton, Kansas. In Bolton Rocky finds her devoted dog, Python, who leads her to Mick, the rumpled artist hired to design a monument to the town's war dead--and the person who changes Rocky's view of life, art, and the world. For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1991. Mother Murphy RC 37508 by Colleen O'Shaughnessy McKenna read by Ellen Frost 1 cassette Eleven-year-old Collette Murphy's first reaction to the news of her mother's pregnancy is dismay. When she learns that her mother has previously suffered miscarriages, her dismay quickly turns to guilt. When her mother becomes bedridden and several sitters cancel out, Collette volunteers to care for her three younger siblings. She finds herself coping with a sister who's locked in the bathroom, the loss of electricity, and a fire in the oven. For grades 4-7. 1992. My Name Is Sus5an Smith. The Five Is Silent RC 36524 by Louise Plummer read by Kerry Cundiff 2 cassettes Sus5an Smith, seventeen, is bored with life in Utah and feels alienated from her family, who do not understand her or her art. When the opportunity arises to live with her unconventional Aunt Libby, Sus5an jumps at the chance to leave home, to pursue her art career in Boston, and most of all to look for her Uncle Willy, about whom she has romanticized since she was young. For junior and senior high readers. 1991. The Other Side of the Family RC 35043 by Maureen Pople read by Marilyn Gleason 1 cassette Kate Tucker has been sent from London to Australia to stay with her mother's parents until World War II is over. When the Japanese invade Sydney harbor, she is shipped to the interior to stay with her father's mother. Kate has never met this grandmother, who was so upset by her son's choice of a bride that she disinherited him. Arriving, Kate finds an old, poor, eccentric woman who teaches her a lot about life. For grades 6-9. 1986. A Place to Claim as Home RC 36962 by Patricia Willis read by Mimi Bederman 1 cassette 1943. As the nation's male work force goes off to war, thirteen-year-old Henry Compton goes to work in Ohio on Sarah Morrison's farm. Although Sarah is taciturn, Henry--an orphan who never knew his parents--nevertheless grows fond of her. He becomes intrigued by local gossip that she gave up an illegitimate baby in 1930. Henry dwells on the rumors of Sarah's past and comes to believe that she is his mother. For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1991. The Rain Catchers RC 37060 by Jean Thesman read by Celeste Lawson 1 cassette Fourteen-year-old Grayling lives in Seattle with her grandmother and a small circle of women relatives and friends. The defining center of their day is teatime. Grandmother wheels a cart into the dining room, and the older women discuss the crucial events of the day and of their lives while Grayling and her friend Colleen listen from the porch. Grayling begins a search to understand her own life story. For junior and senior high and older readers. 1991. Somewhere in the Darkness RC 36958 by Walter Dean Myers read by June Carter 1 cassette "I'm your father," the man tells Jimmy Little in the dimly lit hall of his New York City tenement. They don't know each other. Crab, the father, has been in jail for nine years. Seriously ill, he has escaped from prison in an attempt to clear his name and win his son's respect. As they drive to Chicago, then to Crab's hometown in Arkansas, the police close in, and Jimmy sees the failure of his father's dreams. For junior and senior high and older readers. 1992. Summer of My German Soldier RC 36625 by Bette Greene read by Carole Jordan Stewart 1 cassette (Reissue) Patty Bergen, a twelve-year-old Jewish girl living in Arkansas, is fascinated when a truckload of German POWs arrives to be imprisoned in her small Arkansas town. At her father's store, Patty strikes up an acquaintance with one of the prisoners, Anton. But she is not prepared for the repercussions when Anton escapes and she hides him. For junior and senior high and older readers. 1973. Throw a Hungry Loop RC 36973 by Dona Schenker read by Marilyn Gleason 1 cassette Texan Tres Bomer lives with his ne'er-do-well father on his grandfather's ranch. Tres is thirteen, and his ambition is to become a professional rodeo cowboy. What he needs is a good roping horse, and he comes up with a plan to sell his soon-to-calve heifer and buy an ex-racehorse from his friend Coot's brother. But his grandfather insists that he earn his dream, and Tres endures ridicule and hard work to achieve his goal. For grades 6-9. 1990. What Hearts RC 37415 by Bruce Brooks read by Michael Pinney 1 cassette Rushing home to show off his report card on the last day of first grade, Asa is told of his parents' impending divorce. Soon thereafter he is introduced to Dave, his stepfather-to-be. Dave does not like Asa, who is smart and precocious. Asa's mother becomes increasingly depressed and objects only mildly to Dave's negative attitude toward her son. Slowly, Dave and Asa forge a relationship. For grades 5-8 and older readers. 1992. Braille Alfie Gets In First BR 9562 by Shirley Hughes 1 volume Alfie accidentally locks his mother and baby sister, Annie Rose, out of the house, and he can't reach the latch to let them in. Soon the whole neighborhood is involved in getting the door open. For grades 2-4. 1981. And Now Miguel BR 9200 by Joseph Krumgold 2 volumes An introspective New Mexico youth tells of his great longing to accompany the men and sheep to summer pasture. Neither child nor man, he feels the need to be recognized as a maturing individual. For grades 5-8. Newbery Medal. 1953. The Brave BR 9395 by Robert Lipsyte 1 volume Sonny Bear--part Native American, part white--is rejected by both worlds. Tired of being a "nobody," Sonny leaves the Moscondaga Reservation to find his artist mother in New York City. There he is picked up by two hustlers who steal his wallet, and he foils a drug bust for narcotics sergeant Alfred Brooks, a former boxer who sees Sonny's talent. For junior and senior high readers. 1991. A Day No Pigs Would Die BR 9397 by Robert Newton Peck 1 volume Explores the problems of growing up on a Shaker farm in Vermont in the 1920s. The story concerns a young boy's pig--its growth, blue ribbon, and inevitable slaughter. Surrounding this are details of farm life, Yankee jokes, and family memories. For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1972. The Day of Ahmed's Secret BR 8985 by Florence Parry Heide and Judith Heide Gilliland 1 volume Ahmed, a young Egyptian, describes the city of Cairo as he goes about his daily work. The crowded streets are noisy with all kinds of sounds woven together. Ahmed steers his donkey-drawn cart through the narrow streets as he delivers fuel to his customers. He eats near a wall 1,000 years old. At sundown, he returns home to share a special surprise with his family. PRINT/BRAILLE. For grades K-3 to share with older readers. 1990. Dobry BR 9611 by Monica Shannon 1 volume The author's memories of childhood in Bulgaria enhance this story of a young peasant boy who wants to be a sculptor. He is discouraged by his mother's opposition but nourished by his grandfather's support. For grades 4-7 and older readers. Newbery Medal. 1934. It's Like This, Cat BR 9722 by Emily Cheney Neville 1 volume The story of a fourteen-year-old New York boy and his relationships with a stray tomcat, an eccentric old woman, a troubled older boy, his first female friend, and his father. For grades 5-8. Newbery Medal 1963. The Leaving Morning BR 8965 by Angela Johnson and David Soman 1 volume The leaving morning has arrived. Boxes are everywhere. They've been packed for days, and the narrator, his sister, mother, and father have said good-bye to neighbors, friends, and relatives. They'll have a final cup of cocoa at the deli across the street, leave lip marks on the frosty window panes, and wait for the movers to take them to their new home. PRINT/BRAILLE. For preschool-grade 2 to share with older readers. 1992. The Leaving Morning BR 8965 by Angela Johnson and David Soman 1 volume The leaving morning has arrived. Boxes are everywhere. They've been packed for days, and the narrator, his sister, mother, and father have said good-bye to neighbors, friends, and relatives. They'll have a final cup of cocoa at the deli across the street, leave lip marks on the frosty window panes, and wait for the movers to take them to their new home. PRINT/BRAILLE. For preschool-grade 2 to share with older readers. 1992. Owen BR 9913 by Kevin Henkes 1 volume Owen has a blanket, Fuzzy, that he's had since he was a baby and loves with all his heart. Owen takes Fuzzy everywhere with him. Mrs. Tweezers, the neighbor, thinks Owen is getting too old to carry around a blanket. She tells his parents about the Blanket Fairy, the vinegar trick, and saying "no," but nothing can pry Fuzzy from Owen. When Owen starts school, though, his mother knows just what to do. PRINT/BRAILLE. For preschool-grade 2. 1993. The Pigman BR 9275 by Paul Zindel 1 volume An "epic memorial" told alternately by John Conlan and Lorraine Jensen, two clever high school sophomores who don't get along with their parents. They describe their friendship and misadventures with Mr. Pignati, the "Pigman," who is elderly, lonely, and senile. And they tell of the bitter lesson they learn when they abuse his affection and betray him. Followed by Pigman's Legacy (BR 6309). For junior and senior high readers. 1968. Red Sky at Morning BR 9373 by Richard Bradford 2 volumes A boy of seventeen accompanies his mother to their summer home in New Mexico while his father is serving in World War II. He describes their life in the remote mountain village and the comic escapades that occur. Through it all runs the strain of holding the family together. For high school and older readers. 1968. Sister of the Bride BR 9777 by Beverly Cleary 2 volumes Barbara McLane's romantic ideas about married life are shattered when she helps her down-to-earth sister prepare for her wedding. For grades 5-8. 1963. Then Again, Maybe I Won't BR 9477 by Judy Blume 1 volume Tony Miglione believes that if his parents were to read his mind, they would be surprised and shocked at his thoughts. He reflects on his shoplifting neighbor and friend, on the way his parents change in response to money, and on his own sexual development. For grades 5-8. 1971. Up a Road Slowly BR 9381 by Irene Hunt 2 volumes With clear recall, Julie recounts growing up motherless from age seven to high school graduation. She relates the pains and high moments and describes her relationships, both happy and disappointing. For grades 6-9 and older readers. Newbery Medal. 1966. Historical Fiction Cassettes Ajeemah and His Son RC 36259 by James Berry read by Harold Parker 1 cassette 1807. Ajeemah and his son, Atu, are on their way to arrange the marriage of Atu and his beloved Sisi when they are captured by slave traders and shipped in chains from their African village to Jamaica. They are then sent to separate estates. When Atu commits suicide, Ajeemah is ill with grief until a Jamaican-born slave nurses him back to health. They marry and live to see their daughter wed in freedom. For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1991. Along the Tracks RC 36881 by Tamar Bergman read by Robert Blumenfeld 2 cassettes Escaping German persecution during World War II, eight-year-old Yankele and his Jewish family leave Poland for Russia. They find refuge in Crimea, only to be displaced again by a Nazi invasion. Yankele is separated from his family and begins an arduous journey walking and hopping freight trains, searching for his mother. He befriends other "abandoned ones" trying to survive in war-torn Europe. For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1988. The Apprentice RC 38724 by Pilar Molina Llorente read by Robert Blumenfeld 1 cassette Florence (Italy) during the Renaissance. Arduino, thirteen and a tailor's son, finally gets to pursue his dream of becoming a painter when he is apprenticed to Maestro Cosimo di Forl¡. But Arduino soon discovers that the Maestro is not what he seems. His home, a "nest of misery and envy," houses a sinister secret--the jealous Maestro keeps his best student chained in the attic. For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1989. The Bamboo Flute RC 37860 by Garry Disher read by Graeme Malcolm 1 cassette Australia, 1932. Twelve-year-old Paul is buried in the realities of hard work, poverty, and the fear of losing the family farm. He dreams of the music of long ago when his father whistled and his mother played their now repossessed piano. One day Paul meets Eric the Red, a homeless drifter (Paul has been warned to stay away from strangers), and the older man helps Paul to make an instrument of his own. For grades 4-7 and older readers. 1992. Becca's Story RC 36847 by James D. Forman read by Mary Woods 1 cassette The onset of the Civil War is almost a relief for Becca Case, a fifteen-year-old girl living in Jonesville, Michigan. Her two beaus are going off to fight for the Union, and at least she will not have to decide between them until they return. Her head tells her to choose steady, dependable Alex, but her heart belongs to capricious, irrepressible Charlie. For junior and senior high readers. 1992. The Borning Room RC 36553 by Paul Fleischman read by Barbara Caruso 1 cassette The story of four generations of Ohioans whose most important events--births and deaths--take place in their home's "borning room." Georgina Caroline Lott, who was born there in 1851, tells her family saga to a portrait painter who has been hired to capture her image toward the end of her life, in 1918. She recounts poignant events from her life, which include her discovery as a child of a runaway slave. For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1991. The Boy Who Sailed with Columbus RC 37792 by Michael Foreman and Richard Seaver read by Andy Chappell 1 cassette Leif, an orphan, is recruited by Christopher Columbus to sail aboard the Santa Maria. Leif becomes disillusioned by the motives of his fellow shipmates and their plans to force some of the Native Americans to travel to Spain. Left behind as part of a new colony, Leif is kidnapped and taken under the wings of Two Moons, a blind medicine man who teaches Leif (now Morning Star) the ways of the shaman. For grades 3-6. 1991. Bull Run RC 37371 by Paul Fleischman read by Ted Eiland 1 cassette A series of brief vignettes, each focusing on the life and thoughts of a person who participated in some way in the Battle of Bull Run, the first major engagement of the Civil War. Each of the sixteen characters, eight from the South and eight from the North, has special reasons for participating: one is escaping from an abusive father, another has been hired to drive wealthy spectators to the battle for a picnic. For grades 5-8 and older readers. 1993. Calico Bush RC 35410 by Rachel Field read by Laura Giannarelli 1 cassette (Reissue) A brave French girl "bound out" to a pioneer family travels with them from Massachusetts to a new settlement in Maine, where the pioneers face loneliness, hard work, Indian raids, and death. For grades 3-6. 1931. Children of Bach RC 37114 by Eil¡s Dillon read by Patricia Kilgarriff 1 cassette Peter, fourteen, finds himself in charge of his younger brother and sister and the sister's friend when they come home from school and discover that their parents, famous musicians, have been arrested by the Nazis along with other Jews in their Budapest community. The children at first seek refuge in music as they puzzle out their options. When their Aunt Eva miraculously returns, they hatch a daring escape. For grades 5-8 and older readers. 1992. The Circlemaker RC 38726 by Maxine Rose Schur read by Ken Kliban 1 cassette Mendel is twelve in 1852 when the czar's soldiers come to his small Ukrainian town looking for Jewish conscripts. Knowing his parents will risk their lives to protect him, he runs away. He is helped by a mysterious freedom fighter who pairs him with another fugitive, Dovid, the town bully. Their dangerous trip to the Hungarian border teaches Mendel what his father meant when he said that "only the closed circle can keep us whole." For grades 4-7 and older readers. 1994. The Clock RC 37668 by James Lincoln Collier and Christopher Collier read by Nona Pipes 1 cassette Connecticut, 1810. Annie, fifteen, wants to be a teacher, but her spendthrift father keeps the family in debt. Annie is forced to work at the local textile mill after her father buys a factory-made clock. Time now has definite boundaries, and life becomes regimented by minutes. Annie must fend off the sexual advances of the cruel overseer, whom she discovers is a thief. For grades 5-8 and older readers. 1992. Code Name Kris RC 36891 by Carol Matas read by Gordon Gould 1 cassette In Lisa's War (RC 32997), Jesper helps his Jewish friends, Stefan and Lisa, escape to Sweden from Nazi-occupied Denmark. Three years later, Jesper, seventeen, is still working for the Danish resistance. He recounts the dangerous events that led to his confinement in a German prison. When Stefan returns to Denmark, he teams up with Jesper to fight the Nazis. For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1989. Dragon's Gate RC 38610 by Laurence Yep read by Gary Tipton 2 cassettes China, 1865. Fourteen-year-old Otter eagerly sails to California to join his father and his legendary uncle, Foxfire, as a laborer on the transcontinental railroad. Joining outcasts headed by Uncle Foxfire, a dreamer battling defeat by American racism and the fears of his Chinese companions, Otter begins a harrowing journey toward self-knowledge. Companion to Mountain Light (RC 26541) and Serpent's Children (RC 26540). For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1993. The Ghost Cadet RC 36517 by Elaine Marie Alphin read by Gary Tipton 1 cassette Benjy and his older sister Fran are spending their spring break with the grandmother they've never met before, Miss Leota. Arriving in New Market, Virginia, Benjy develops an immediate interest in the local history revolving around the Civil War battle at New Market. He befriends the ghost of Hugh McDowell, a confederate soldier killed in the battle, who is determined to reclaim his honor by finding a lost heirloom. For grades 4-7 and older readers. 1991. Good-bye, Billy Radish RC 37379 by Gloria Skurzynski read by Phil Regensdorf 1 cassette World War I, Canaan, Pennsylvania. Eleven-year-old Hank Kerner has never liked the noisy, powerful steel mill and becomes even more fearful after witnessing a fatal accident. Hank is also beginning to be puzzled by the behavior of his older best friend, Bazyli Radichevych, whom Hank dubs Billy Radish, who has taken to girls and dancing. Hank is inspired to become a doctor after Billy dies in an influenza epidemic. For grades 5-8 and older readers. 1992. Grace RC 37004 by Jill Paton Walsh read by Jennifer Mendenhall 2 cassettes September 1838. A violent storm rages off the Northumbrian coast of England. Grace Darling spies a shipwreck during her watch at the lighthouse and awakens her father. Together, they heroically save nine lives. The pandemonium created by the rescue disrupts Grace's life at the lighthouse, as she is showered with gifts and money. But her neighbors resent her and accuse her of making the rescue purely for monetary gain. For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1991. Great-Grandma Tells of Threshing Day RC 37097 by Verda Cross read by Catherine Byers 1 cassette The children love to hear Great-Grandma Swift tell of threshing day. It was a time--in the Midwest during the early 1900s--when the community would gather to harvest each family's wheat. There was plenty of work, food, and fun, and for Laura (Great-Grandma Swift) and her brother, threshing day was the best day of the year. For grades K-3 and older readers. 1992. The Half Child RC 36577 by Kathleen Hersom read by Laura Giannarelli 1 cassette Looking back more than fifty years later, Lucy Watson describes the little sister that only she loved, "our Sarah," who was born in seventeenth-century Yorkshire when Lucy was six. Slow of speech and ungainly in movement, Sarah is shunned as a changeling--a child the fairies left in place of a human baby. When Sarah disappears, only Lucy believes that the small child has simply wandered off and might still be alive. For grades 5-8 and older readers. 1989. Hear O Israel: A Story of the Warsaw Ghetto RC 35248 by Terry Walton Treseder read by Ray Hagen 1 cassette Isaac, a twelve-year-old boy in the Warsaw ghetto, tells this gripping, troubling story. It begins at his brother Simon's bar mitzvah soon after the Nazis invade Poland. Isaac describes his father's unwavering faith in God; Simon's disaffection from his faith; the deaths of most of the family from starvation; and the final moments before Isaac's death at Treblinka. Violence. For junior and senior high and older readers. 1990. Hugh Glass, Mountain Man RC 35571 by Robert M. McClung read by Bob Askey 1 cassette This fictionalized biography of the legendary Hugh Glass begins in 1823 when Glass, nearly fifty, signs on with the Rocky Mountain Fur Company. Glass is severely mauled by a huge grizzly bear, and two young men in the hunting party stay behind with Glass to bury him after he dies. Afraid of an Indian attack, the men leave their dying friend, taking his rifle and supplies. But Glass, fueled by his fury, determines to live. For grades 6-9. 1990. Jericho's Journey RC 38794 by G. Clifton Wisler read by Gary Tipton 1 cassette The year is 1852, and Jericho Wetherby is overjoyed by the anticipation of adventure when his father announces that the family will pull up stakes and move from Tennessee to Texas. In this first-person narrative based on an actual diary, Jericho tells of the fears, hardships, and triumphs that the long and arduous journey entails. For grades 4-7 and older readers. 1993. Just like Martin RC 36605 by Ossie Davis read by Harold Parker 1 cassette In 1963 in an Alabama town, thirteen-year-old Isaac idolizes Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and his philosophy of nonviolence. Isaac's father, a Korean War veteran, declares nonviolence is "for cowards and sissies" and packs a gun. Isaac is forbidden to join classmates in the March on Washington, and he must confront his father when Isaac organizes a children's march following the bombing of his church. Some strong language. For grades 5-8 and older readers. 1992. Katie's Trunk RC 38658 by Ann Turner read by Suzanne Toren 1 cassette Katie's family remains loyal to the British as the American Revolution approaches. Katie has lost the friendship of neighbors and playmates, and she hears the word "Tory!" hissed at her. When the rebels invade her family's home, Katie hides in her mother's wedding trunk. But a rebel's kindness helps her to understand the meaning of goodness. For grades K-3 and older readers. 1992. Kunu: Escape on the Missouri RC 36667 by Kenneth Thomasma read by John Stratton 1 cassette As his father fights for the Union Army in the Civil War, Kunu, along with his mother, sisters, grandfather, and nearly 2,000 other Winnebago people are forcibly removed from their ancestral lands in Minnesota and taken to Crow Creek, South Dakota. Hundreds die. Kunu's grandfather is determined to return to his homeland to die, and he and Kunu embark on an incredible journey, dodging soldiers and nearly drowning. For grades 4-7 and older readers. 1989. Letters from Rifka RC 36622 by Karen Hesse read by Janis Gray 1 cassette 1919. Rifka's family flees persecution inflicted upon Jews in Russia for a better life in America. However, Rifka is refused passage on the ship because she has ringworm. Cured and hoping to be reunited with her family, she is detained at Ellis Island because it is thought she may become a burden on society: she is now bald and may not marry. Rifka tells her story in letters written in blank pages of a poetry book. For grades 5-8 and older readers. 1992. Letting Swift River Go RC 36180 by Jane Yolen read by Ilona Dulaski 1 cassette The site of the Quabbin Reservoir in western Massachusetts was once the location of the vibrant, rural Swift River towns. Young Sally Jane relates how the nearby city of Boston needed more water, so the town's graves were moved, then all the trees were cut down, the houses were taken away or bulldozed, and all the people were relocated, with their lives changed forever as the waters came. For grades K-3. 1992. The Man from the Other Side RC 36966 by Uri Orlev read by Arnie Warren 1 cassette Marek, fourteen, is unaffected by the anti-Semitism of Nazi-occupied Poland until he discovers that his own father was Jewish. Stunned, Marek defies his anti-Semitic stepfather, who smuggles food into the ghetto for money, and helps Jozek, a Jewish fugitive, hide in the city. When the 1943 Warsaw ghetto uprising starts, Jozek begs Marek to lead him back to the ghetto, with tragic consequences. For grades 6-9 and older readers. Batchelder Award. 1989. Nightjohn RC 38431 by Gary Paulsen read by Carole Jordan Stewart 1 cassette Sarny is a slave girl, twelve years old according to Mammy's notched stick. A new field hand, Nightjohn, is bought by the cruel plantation owner. Secretly, Nightjohn teaches Sarny to read, a gift she carries like a rare jewel until the master catches her writing in the dirt. As punishment she and Mammy are brutally beaten and Nightjohn is maimed. More determined than ever, they continue their lessons. For grades 6-9 and older readers. Violence. 1993. No Promises in the Wind RC 35252 by Irene Hunt read by John Lescault 1 cassette (Reissue) Against the backdrop of the Great Depression, fifteen-year-old Josh Grondowski, his brother Joey, and a friend hop a freight train out of Chicago to make their own way in the world. Josh and Joey's exodus has been precipitated by their father, who has become bitter and cruel because of unemployment and hunger. For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1970. A Place to Belong: The Orphan Train Quartet, Book 4 RC 36172 by Joan Lowery Nixon read by Madelyn Buzzard 1 cassette The Orphan Train Quartet series begins in 1856 in New York City, when Mrs. Kelly, a destitute young widow with six children, sends them all west to foster homes. This book tells the story of Danny and his younger sister Peg, who have been adopted by the nice Swensons in Missouri. When Mrs. Swenson dies, Danny plots to get Mr. Swenson to marry his mother. Sequel to In the Face of Danger (RC 32444). For grades 5-8. 1989. The Place Where Nobody Stopped RC 36551 by Jerry Segal read by Robert Blumenfeld 1 cassette On the road between Vitebsk and Smolensk there is a small cluster of houses known as "the place where nobody stops." Here Yosip the Baker, fleeing some great grief, establishes his shop. He is quite lonely until the arrival of Mordecai ben Yahbahbai, a Jewish scholar who gave his life savings to his cousin for promised passports to America for himself and his family. Mordecai waits for the passports as his family grows. For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1991. Pocket Change RC 34955 by Kathryn Jensen read by Virginia Kearns 2 cassettes A haunting portrait of a father, tormented by flashbacks of the Vietnam war, and his family, frightened and uncertain about how to cope. Busy with school, work, and a boyfriend, sixteen-year-old Josie suddenly realizes that her father has become a stranger. The family suffers as Monroe slips from reality into combat paranoia. A near tragedy and Josie's persuasion convince him to seek treatment. For junior and senior high readers. 1989. The Real Plato Jones RC 38145 by Nina Bawden read by George Holmes 1 cassette At his grandfather's funeral in a Greek village, half-Greek and half-Welsh and London-bred teenager Plato Jones becomes aware of the World War II-era conflict that soured relations between his two sets of grandparents. While his Welsh grandfather was a hero in the Greek resistance, his other grandfather may have been a coward and a traitor. For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1993. Red Cap RC 36220 by G. Clifton Wisler read by Bruce Huntey 1 cassette Ransom J. Powell, thirteen, runs away to become a drummer boy for the Union Army in this Civil War novel set in Maryland, Virginia, and Georgia. Youth does not spare him the horrors of war. He describes his life as a prisoner of war at Libby and Andersonville in grim, painful detail. Dubbed "Red Cap," Powell refuses to denounce his loyalty to the Union despite personal deprivation. Based on a true story. Violence. For grades 5-8 and older readers. 1991. Steal Away RC 36669 by Jennifer Armstrong read by Catherine Byers 1 cassette 1896. Elderly Susannah McKnight coaxes her granddaughter Mary to travel with her from their comfortable New York home to Canada, to visit someone Mary regards as an "old slave woman" and her young companion, Free. But Mary's vision of Bethlehem Reid is altered when she learns that as teenagers Susannah and Bethlehem helped each other to escape to the North: Bethlehem to freedom and Susannah to her beloved home. For grades 5-8 and older readers. 1992. Stepping on the Cracks RC 35243 by Mary Downing Hahn read by Barbara Rappaport 2 cassettes The year is 1944, and Margaret, eleven, and her friend Elizabeth both have brothers overseas fighting in World War II. Both girls hate Gordy, the school bully. They discover that a "crazy man" living in the woods is actually Gordy's brother, Stuart, a pacifist and army deserter. When Stuart nearly dies of pneumonia, the girls join forces with Gordy to help and struggle with their own feelings about war. For grades 5-8. 1991. The Store That Mama Built RC 37903 by Robert Lehrman read by Suzanne Toren 1 cassette Papa was a Russian Jewish immigrant whose dream was to own a grocery store in their small Pennsylvania town. But when he dies in 1917, the store has not yet opened. Twelve-year-old Birdie tells how she, her three brothers, and her two sisters help Mama succeed in managing the store. For grades 3-6 and older readers. 1992. Switching Well RC 38302 by Peni R. Griffin read by Michele Schaeffer 2 cassettes In this time-travel fantasy, two girls from different centuries inadvertently trade places. Sitting by an old well near her San Antonio home in 1891, twelve-year-old Ada wishes herself 100 years into the future. Simultaneously, in 1991, Amber, another discontented twelve-year-old seated at the same well, wishes herself back in time when, she believes, life was easy. Both girls learn that each century has its problems. For grades 5-8. 1993. Trail Fever: The Life of a Texas Cowboy RC 37902 by D.J. Lightfoot read by Michael Pinney 1 cassette George Washington Saunders was born in Texas in 1854, and as far as he could remember, he had always been a cowboy. Saunders could ride a horse before he could walk, and by the age of five he could herd cattle from horseback nearly as well as his three older brothers. In the early 1900s, Saunders published many books about his life as a trail driver, which the author used in writing this story. For grades 4-7. 1992. Tug of War RC 36875 by Joan Lingard read by Lisette Lecat 2 cassettes 1944. The Russians are approaching Latvia. Professor Lukas Petersons and his family plan to flee to Germany. At the train station, chaos rules, and Hugo, the professor's fourteen-year-old son, is separated from the others. While Hugo ends up in Hamburg sheltered in a kind German household, his twin sister Astra and his family scrounge for food in refugee camps. The story is told from the perspectives of Hugo and Astra. For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1989. Underground Man RC 35044 by Milton Meltzer read by Phil Regensdorf 2 cassettes (Reissue) Following his conscience, nineteen-year-old Josh Bowen becomes an abolitionist conductor on the Underground Railroad, an act that leads to his trial and imprisonment. A graphic description of the antislavery movement inspired by the author's research on white abolitionists, especially the life of Calvin Fairbank. For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1972. Wagon Wheels RC 39060 by Barbara Brenner read by Earle Hyman 1 cassette (Reissue) The story of a black family that travels from Kentucky to Kansas after the Civil War to establish a homestead. They build a dugout house and barely survive a bitter winter, saved from starvation by generous Indians. A picture of pioneer life for grades 2-4. 1978. Waiting for Anya RC 36680 by Michael Morpurgo read by Robert Blumenfeld 1 cassette Jo, a shepherd boy who lives in a small French village, accidentally discovers Benjamin, the widow Horcada's Jewish son-in-law who is hiding in her mountain home. Separated from Anya, his daughter, Benjamin hides Jewish children and leads them to safety in Spain, while hoping to find Anya. Jo begins bringing supplies to the widow's house. Then the Nazis encamp in Jo's village, sealing the Spanish border. For grades 5-9 and older readers. 1990. Who Comes with Cannons? RC 37042 by Patricia Beatty read by Celeste Lawson 1 cassette A novel set during the Civil War period, told from the perspective of a southern Quaker family. Truth is twelve when her ailing father sends her to North Carolina to live with her uncle, his wife, and their two sons. Gradually she is accepted by her new family and drawn into their activities on the Underground Railroad. During the war years, Truth and her family are vilified since, as pacifist Quakers, they refuse to fight for either side. For grades 5-8. 1992. Year of Impossible Goodbyes RC 36945 by Sook Nyul Choi read by Nancy Kronenfeld 1 cassette Sookan, ten, tells of her family's experiences during the Japanese occupation of Korea as World War II ends. The Japanese commit cruel acts against her proud, hopeful family. After the Japanese defeat, relief and hope for the return of male family members are short-lived as the USSR takes control of North Korea, bringing communism to the country. Sookan, her mother, and her younger brother attempt a daring escape to South Korea. For grades 5-8 and older readers. 1991. Braille The Bronze Bow BR 9149 by Elizabeth George Speare 2 volumes A young Jew joins a brutal band of outlaws to seek revenge against the Roman soldiers who killed his parents and destroyed his home. The boy's consuming hatred orders his life until he meets a rabbi from Capernaum named Jesus. For junior and senior high readers. Newbery Medal. 1961. Charley Skedaddle BR 9799 by Patricia Beatty 2 volumes A Civil War story revolving around the maturing of twelve-year-old Charley Quinn. Charley is one of the youngest and toughest Bowery Boys in New York. He enlists as a drummer boy in the Union Army to see action and avenge his brother's death--only to run away terrified when battle comes. For grades 4-7 and older readers. 1987. Dragonwings BR 9550 by Laurence Yep 2 volumes Moon Shadow sails from China in 1903 to join his father in San Francisco's Chinatown. The father is obsessed with the dream of making a flying machine, and he and Moon Shadow endure poverty and ridicule to make the dream come true. For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1975. George the Drummer Boy BR 9831 by Nathaniel Benchley 1 volume George, a drummer boy with the king's army, is stationed in Boston in the British colony of Massachusetts in 1775. Swept away on a secret mission, George witnesses the events in Lexington and Concord that helped to ignite the American Revolution. For grades 2-4. 1977. The Light in the Forest BR 9589 by Conrad Richter 1 volume Once he was John Cameron Butler, but for the past eleven years, True Son, a fifteen-year-old white boy raised by Indians, has been the loved and adopted child of a great Lenni Lenape warrior. Now, forcibly returned to his family, True Son cannot believe that the pallid man standing before him in a garment the color of a woman's expects True Son to accept him as his father. For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1953. Switching Well BR 9628 by Peni R. Griffin 2 volumes In this time-travel fantasy, two girls from different centuries inadvertently trade places. Sitting by an old well near her San Antonio home in 1891, twelve-year-old Ada wishes herself 100 years into the future. Simultaneously, in 1991, Amber, another discontented twelve-year-old seated at the same well, wishes herself back in time when, she believes, life was easy. Both girls learn that each century has its problems. For grades 5-8. 1993. Uncle Jed's Barbershop BR 9921 by Margaree King Mitchell 1 volume It takes Sarah Jean's Uncle Jed a long time to open his barbershop, but he does not give up his dream. In the 1920s in the rural South where most black people are sharecroppers, Uncle Jed travels around the county cutting hair and saving for the barbershop. Sarah Jean needs an operation, then the banks fail, and Uncle Jed has to start over again, but he opens his barbershop on his seventy-ninth birthday. PRINT/BRAILLE. For grades K-3 and older readers. 1993. When the Legends Die BR 9481 by Hal Borland 2 volumes Colorado, early 1900s. Thomas Black Bull, a young Native American, lives a traditional Ute life just as his ancestors did. At the age of eleven, however, he is forced to leave his beloved community to attend school on a reservation. Bull grows up and becomes a successful rodeo rider. However, he eventually returns to his people and his former way of life. For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1963. Holidays Cassettes Big Pumpkin RC 38028 by Erica Silverman read by Ilona Dulaski 1 cassette With pie on her mind, a witch goes to her garden to pick a special pumpkin just hours before Halloween. But the witch has watered and weeded the pumpkin so well that it has grown gigantic and won't budge from the vine. A ghost comes along and offers his help, as do a vampire and a mummy--all to no avail. When a bat offers his services, they laugh because the bat is so small. But the bat has an idea. For preschool-grade 2. 1992. A Christmas Sonata RC 36494 by Gary Paulsen read by Andy Chappell 1 cassette World War II. The narrator and his mother travel to rural Minnesota to spend Christmas with relatives, including his terminally ill cousin, Matthew. The narrator has many worries: his father's safety on the European front, Matthew's impending death, and, most of all, his recently shattered belief in Santa Claus. He confides in Matthew, who becomes as distressed as he, until their faith in the magic of Christmas is restored. For grades 4-7. 1992. Elijah's Angel: A Story for Chanukah and Christmas RC 38127 by Michael J. Rosen read by Suzanne Toren 1 cassette Michael, a nine-year-old Jewish boy, spends long hours at the barbershop of Elijah, an elderly black man who is a Christian and a woodcarver. Michael loves Elijah's work. When Elijah gives Michael an angel on a day during Chanukah that is also Christmas Eve, Michael worries it is a "graven image"--until his father assures him it is a symbol of friendship, which is universal. For grades K-3 and older readers. 1992. The Glass Menorah and Other Stories for Jewish Holidays RC 37140 by Maida Silverman read by Barbara Rappaport 1 cassette A collection of eight brief stories featuring the Berg family, their cat Bessie, and their neighbor Mr. Yomtov. They celebrate various Jewish holidays including Rosh Hashanah, Simchat Torah, Passover, and Hanukkah. For grades K-3. 1992. Horrible Harry and the Kickball Wedding RC 38227 by Suzy Kline read by John Polk 1 cassette Horrible Harry is a second-grader who loves horrible things. He's had a crush on Song Lee ever since she brought a potato beetle to show-and-tell in kindergarten. Harry also loves kickball. As Valentine's Day draws near, the kids in room 2B gear up for kickball and a possible wedding between Horrible Harry and Song Lee. Companion to Horrible Harry's Secret (RC 33366). For grades K-3. 1992. In the Month of Kislev: A Story for Hanukkah RC 38213 by Nina Jaffe read by Barry Bernson 1 cassette The children of a peddler too poor to buy a potato for Hanukkah fall happily asleep each night enticed by the delicious smell of the latkes from the rich merchant Feivel's house. When the greedy Feivel learns of their enjoyment, he takes the poor peddler's family to court to demand payment--and learns a lesson about the meaning of Hanukkah. For preschool-grade 2 and older readers. 1992. An Island Christmas RC 36424 by Lynn Joseph read by Janis Gray 1 cassette Rosie lives on the Caribbean island of Trinidad. There is much for her to do to help prepare for Christmas--red sorrel must be picked for the sorrel drink, the black currant cakes and the alloe pies must be mixed, and the guava branch must be decorated. And who can resist the urge to make music with the parang band? A holiday story told in the lilting patois of the Caribbean. For grades K-3 and older readers. 1992. Maria: A Christmas Story RC 37023 by Theodore Taylor read by Sheena Gordon 1 cassette Eleven-year-old Maria Gonzaga lives in a small town in California where Christmas is celebrated with a parade of expensive floats. No Mexican Americans have ever entered a float in the parade. Maria, envious and tired of the prattlings of the Anglo girls about their families' floats, announces that her family, too, will be entering, although they can barely afford the entrance fee. For grades 4-7. 1992. The Mousehole Cat RC 35244 by Antonia Barber read by Jennifer Mendenhall 1 cassette Mowzer the cat tells the tale of how she and her human, an old fisherman named Tom, save Mousehole, their tiny Cornish fishing village, from starvation at Christmas time. For preschool-grade 2. 1990. Nate the Great and the Mushy Valentine RC 39501 by Marjorie Weinman Sharmat read by John Stratton 1 cassette Detective Nate the Great hates mushy words, and slushy words, and valentines too. When someone gives his dog Sludge a valentine that says "I love you Sludge/More than fudge," he agrees to help Sludge find out who sent it. But Nate the Great soon finds himself involved in a case of two mystery valentines. For grades 2-4. 1994. A Newbery Christmas: Fourteen Stories of Christmas by Newbery Award-Winning Authors RC 35827 selected by Martin H. Greenberg and Charles G. Waugh read by Catherine Byers 1 cassette The American Library Association has presented the John Newbery Award annually since 1922 to the "most distinguished contribution" to children's literature. This collection includes Christmas stories by more than a dozen Newbery Award-winning authors. For grades 3-6 and older readers. 1991. A Newbery Halloween: A Dozen Scary Stories by Newbery Award-winning Authors RC 39186 selected by Martin H. Greenberg and Charles G. Waugh read by David Palmer 1 cassette Since 1922 the American Library Association has awarded the John Newbery Award annually to the "most distinguished contribution" to children's literature. This collection of scary stories--just right for Halloween--is by Newbery Award-winning authors. Includes selections by Beverly Cleary, E.L. Konigsburg, and Virginia Hamilton. For grades 3-6 and older readers. 1993. Picnic at Mudsock Meadow RC 39181 by Patricia Polacco read by Catherine Byers 1 cassette At the annual Halloween picnic in Mudsock Meadow, William is tortured by Hester Bledden. At first sight, she pokes out her tongue and yells "peeeeeee youuuuuuu," to William's utter embarrassment. And she is right there when he loses the pumpkin-carving and seed-spitting contests. His efforts in the dress-up event seem equally doomed until he faces down the ghost of Quicksand Bottoms and Hester calls him "her hero." For grades K-3. 1992. Thank You, Santa RC 36419 by Margaret Wild read by Kerry Cundiff 1 cassette Although many children write to Santa before Christmas, not too many write afterwards. Samantha, who lives in Australia, becomes Santa's pen pal, and they correspond throughout the entire year. Through their letters Samantha broadens her knowledge of polar animals. For grades K-3 and older readers. 1991. +The Thief of Always: A Fable RC 35887 by Clive Barker read by Erik Sandvold 1 cassette Harvey Swick, ten, is bored with the dreary month of February and needs a diversion. Then a stranger, Rictus, magically enters Harvey's room and invites him to Holiday House. There is plenty to do at Holiday House as each day brings all four seasons to pass with their special holidays. But Harvey soon realizes that an evil force lurks in the house. For junior and senior high and older readers. Bestseller 1992. Young Santa RC 36284 by Dan Greenburg read by George Guidall-Shapiro 1 cassette The author, with tongue in cheek, tells how Santa Claus got his name, what his parents were like, and how he came to be a gift bringer. This story brings to life the baby, toddler, and adolescent years (Santa got his learner's permit at fourteen) of the man we know and love. For grades 5-8 and older readers. 1991. Braille The Biggest Pumpkin Ever BR 9517 by Steven Kroll 1 volume Two mice, one a house mouse and the other a field mouse, fall in love with the very same pumpkin. The house mouse intends to enter it in the town's pumpkin contest, and the field mouse intends to carve it into the world's biggest jack-o'-lantern for Halloween. For grades 2-4. 1984. The Easter Egg Farm BR 9903 by Mary Jane Auch 1 volume Pauline, who lives in Mrs. Pennywort's henhouse, is a most unusual hen. Pauline lays eggs that come out looking like whatever object she concentrates on. The other hens think that her eggs are ugly, but Mrs. Pennywort finds them beautiful, and she and Pauline work together to open an Easter egg farm. PRINT/BRAILLE. For preschool-grade 2. 1992. Happy Christmas, Gemma BR 9000 by Sarah Hayes 1 volume A young boy and his baby sister, Gemma, busily prepare for Christmas. They make Christmas pudding, put up decorations, decorate a tree, and wrap their presents. On Christmas they enjoy a delightful day that includes a call to cousins in Jamaica. PRINT/BRAILLE. For preschool-grade 2. 1986. Tree of Cranes BR 8980 by Allen Say 1 volume Seven days before New Year's Day, a young Japanese boy is perplexed by his mother's strange behavior. She folds paper cranes and digs up the tiny pine tree that was planted when he was born. As the boy helps his mother decorate the tree with the paper cranes and candles, she explains how Christmas is celebrated in the United States, where she was born. PRINT/BRAILLE. For preschool-grade 2. 1991. Humor Cassettes Angela and the Broken Heart RC 36653 by Nancy K. Robinson read by Catherine Byers 1 cassette Angela, six-and-a-half, is quite concerned about love and her teenage brother and sister. Her sister, thirteen, experiences love through a torrid romance novel concealed by a dust jacket that says Silas Marner. More serious, however, are the experiences of Angela's brother, who is smitten with a new girl in his tenth grade class and waits in vain for her to notice him. Companion to Angela, Private Citizen (RC 36654). For grades 3-6. 1991. Angela, Private Citizen RC 36654 by Nancy K. Robinson read by Catherine Byers 1 cassette Ever since she listened to her older brother in a debate on the national economy, six-year-old Angela has been worried about the country's running out of money. On April 15, as her parents are figuring out their last-minute income tax return, Angela decides to file her own, along with $4.53, and she uses the very form her parents need. For grades 3-6. 1989. Arthur Babysits RC 37836 by Marc Brown read by Michael Pinney 1 cassette Arthur can hardly believe it himself, but he has agreed to babysit for "the terrible Tibble twins" after being volunteered by his sister, D.W. The experience is a nightmare come true for Arthur, until he outwits the mischievous twosome with tricks, laughter, and storytime fun. For preschool-grade 2. 1992. The Cow Who Wouldn't Come Down RC 38151 by Paul Brett Johnson read by John Horton 1 cassette Now Miss Rosemary knew that Gertrude, her cow, had a mind of her own. But when Gertrude took to flying, and even perched in a tree and tried to sound like a bird, it sent Miss Rosemary into a tizzy! She tried everything to get that stubborn cow down out of the sky, but absolutely nothing worked--until she made Gertrude jealous. For preschool-grade 2. 1993. Dear Mom, Get Me Out of Here! RC 36666 by Ellen Conford read by John Stratton 1 cassette Anxious to be off to Switzerland, Paul Tanner's parents dump him at a boarding school they haven't bothered to visit. And it is a nightmare come true for Paul. His roommate is convinced that he can fly; the gym teacher holds checker practice outside in the snow; the janitor is incapable of fixing anything; and the editor of the school newspaper asks Paul to help him prove that the headmaster has a shocking past. For grades 5-8 and older readers. 1992. Doctor De Soto RC 39061 by William Steig read by Mitzi Friedlander 1 cassette (Reissue) A kind mouse dentist and his shrewd wife outfox a dangerous patient who wants to try out his new gold teeth on them! A sly story for grades K-3. 1982. Henry and the Paper Route RC 36747 by Beverly Cleary read by Madelyn Buzzard 1 cassette (Reissue) Henry, eleven, feels it's high time he did something important, and he believes a paper route is just what he needs. When he takes over Scooter's route while he's out with the chicken pox, Henry feels certain he'll get Chuck's route when basketball season starts. But when Murph, the new "genius" in the neighborhood, lands the job, Henry's pesky friend Ramona comes to his rescue. Companion to Henry Huggins (RC 35642). For grades 3-6. 1957. Honey, I Blew Up the Kid RC 37710 by Todd Strasser read by Bruce Huntey 1 cassette Professor Szalinski, Nick's inventor dad with a Ph.D. in physics, is at it again. This time he invents an enlarging machine that he accidentally zaps his younger son, Adam, with. Adam becomes the world's largest toddler--terrorizing Las Vegas and intensifying the teenage angst of his brother, Nick, who gets stuck babysitting for him. Sequel to Honey, I Shrunk the Kids (RC 33678). For grades 4-7. 1992. Jason and the Aliens down the Street RC 38190 by Gery Greer and Bob Ruddick read by John Polk 1 cassette Jason Harkness, who's become a door-to-door dog trainer for the summer, is hightailing it after his first charge when he runs into his neighbor, Cooper Vor. Vor is an intragalactic troubleshooter who has a talking cat, Lootna, and is in need of an assistant. Jason signs on, and they are soon jetting to a distant planet in an effort to retrieve a stolen energy crystal. For grades 2-4. 1991. Knights of the Kitchen Table: The Time Warp Trio RC 36216 by Jon Scieszka read by Ray Hagen 1 cassette The Time Warp Trio is here! Comprised of Joe and his two pals, Fred and Sam, the trio travels through time with the help of The Book, a gift from Joe's magician uncle. Their adventures are chockful of tongue-in-cheek humor as they journey back to the Middle Ages to hang out with Sir Lancelot and make Camelot safe from a dragon and a very smelly giant. For grades 3-6 and older readers. 1991. Losing Joe's Place RC 38453 by Gordon Korman read by Barry Bernson 1 cassette The summer before their senior year in high school, Jason and two friends sublet Jason's older brother's apartment--surely a dream come true. But their deli-owning landlord, bills, an uninvited eccentric guest, and much, much more help to turn their dream into a full-of-humor nightmare. For grades 6-9. 1990. Monkey Soup RC 37822 by Louis Sachar read by Catherine Byers 1 cassette Daddy is sick in bed (and he can blow his nose louder than anyone else in the world). Mommy is making him soup to make him feel better. And so is the young narrator, who adds all of the things that make her feel better, like Band-Aids, crayons, and even her favorite monkey. For preschool-grade 2. 1992. Not for a Billion Gazillion Dollars RC 37090 by Paula Danziger read by Michael Pinney 1 cassette Matthew Martin's parents insist that he earn half the money to buy the expensive computer program he craves. After toying with the idea of renting out sister Amanda's room, he survives a session of baby-sitting and settles on mowing lawns. Matthew washes windshields at an intersection until his parents stop him; then Jil! suggests he sell computer-made cards and posters. Sequel to Earth to Matthew (RC 37089). For grades 4-7. 1992. One Snowy Night RC 38684 by Nick Butterworth read by John Horton 1 cassette Percy the park keeper lives in a little hut in the center of the park. Every day he shares his lunch with the animals, who all know about his hut. One cold snowy night the animals come, one by one, to share the warmth of Percy's bed. Soon the bed is so crowded that everyone is tied in a knot and poor Percy is squashed. But the problem is solved surprisingly by the appearance of a special, final guest. For preschool-grade 2. 1989. Phone Calls RC 37962 by R.L. Stine read by Pam Ward 1 cassette Diane calls her best friend, Julie, and convinces her that Mick is very, very, interested--and that she should give him a call. Trouble is, Julie calls the wrong Mick--superjock Mick Wilson--who couldn't care less about Julie, and utter phone confusion begins. For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1990. Pigs Aplenty, Pigs Galore! RC 38579 by David McPhail read by John Horton 1 cassette In this humorous tale told in rhyme, the narrator's house is invaded by pigs of every color, type, and persuasion, who pig out and throw a wonderful party. For preschool-grade 2. 1993. Rats on the Range and Other Stories RC 39264 by James Marshall read by Laura Giannarelli 1 cassette Eight humorous stories about an unusual assortment of animals including a rat family that vacations at a dude ranch owned by rat terriers, a mouse who is the housekeeper for a tomcat, and a buzzard who may or may not leave his money to the Society for Stray Cats. Companion to Rats on the Roof and Other Stories (RC 35447). For grades 2-4 and older readers. 1993. The Return of Freddy LeGrand RC 36352 by Jon Agee read by Laura Giannarelli 1 cassette Aviator Freddy LeGrand didn't realize how much he'd learned from two farmers, Sophie and Albert, or how much he'd taught them. When the Golden Gull crashes after a transatlantic flight, Freddy is rescued by Sophie and Albert. They teach him about farm life, and he teaches them about airplanes. Later, when he crashes after an around-the-world flight, Freddy comes to realize just how important the lessons were. For grades K-3. 1992. The Righteous Revenge of Artemis Bonner RC 36525 by Walter Dean Myers read by John Polk 1 cassette Tongue-in-cheek spoof of the wild West. Artemis Bonner, fifteen, leaves New York City for the West to avenge the dastardly murder of his uncle, Ugly Ned Bonner, and to recover his uncle's treasure. With dogged determination Artemis follows villains Catfish Grimes and Lucy Featherdip from Juarez, Mexico, to Anchorage, Alaska, getting the worst of every encounter. Desperate, he teams up with Frolic. Violence. For grades 4-7. 1992. Rolling Rose RC 39336 by James Stevenson read by Pam Ward 1 cassette A humorous nonsense story about Rose, a baby in a rolling walker--her Rosemobile. One day when her mother is cooking, her father is reading, her brother is playing, and the dog is napping, Rose rolls right out the door. Soon she is joined by Robby, Ruthie, Michael, Debbie, and eighty other babies in a rollicking, rolling parade! For preschool-grade 2. 1992. The Secret Elephant of Harlan Kooter RC 39080 by Dean Harvey read by Erik Sandvold 1 cassette Harlan Kooter--red-haired, small, and very well-mannered--lives in Pine View, Florida, where he is constantly tormented by Mickey Fungo, the schoolyard bully. When he finds an elephant named Hannibal in his garage, Harlan hides the animal, who says he wants to be free of the circus. The two become friends, and Hannibal helps Harlan on his paper route, but an elephant is a big secret to keep, and he is soon discovered. For grades 3-6. 1992. Sheep in a Shop RC 36515 by Nancy Shaw read by Andy Chappell 1 cassette A birthday is coming, and five sheep friends are determined to find that perfect gift for the big, big day. They look at rackets and rockets, blocks and clocks, and trains and planes. When they finally find a gift to buy, they don't have enough money, but they come up with a perfect solution. For preschool-grade 2. 1991. Sheep Out to Eat RC 36514 by Nancy Shaw read by Andy Chappell 1 cassette When five hungry sheep stop at a tea shop for a bite to eat, they have trouble with the menu, they slurp and burp, they add mustard to custard and add pepper to tea and cake (quite by mistake)--which makes them sneeze and bump and jump, and they wreak havoc on the tea shop. Evicted from the premises, they find the perfect lunch right on the lawn. For preschool-grade 2. 1992. Shoebag RC 35249 by Mary James read by Ray Hagen 1 cassette Shoebag, the cockroach son of Drainboard and Under The Toaster, awakens one morning to find that he is now a boy! Adopted by the Biddles (in whose kitchen he has always lived) and renamed Stuart Bagg, poor Shoebag confronts the unknown worlds of humanity and school. Although he bands together with other social outcasts at school and becomes close to his human sister, he longs to return to roachdom and his roach family. For grades 4-7. 1990. Squashed RC 36479 by Joan Bauer read by Anne Mullen 1 cassette Ellie Morgan, sixteen, has two goals in life: to win the Rock River (Iowa) Pumpkin Weigh-In and to lose twenty pounds. Growing Max--her giant pumpkin--is hard enough, what with drought, insects, cold, and even pumpkin thieves to fend off. Her widowed father doesn't approve of her obsession with Max, but encourages her diet with the motivational tapes he sells. And her loving grandmother is very supportive. For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1992. The Stinky Cheese Man and Other Fairly Stupid Tales RC 38039 by Jon Scieszka read by Gary Telles 1 cassette The author calls these tales "not quite" fairy tales, or, fairly stupid tales. Included are "The Princess and the Bowling Ball," "The Other Frog Prince," "Cinderumpelstiltskin," and "The Stinky Cheese Man." For grades K-3 and older readers. 1992. Thank You, Amelia Bedelia RC 39369 by Peggy Parish read by Catherine Byers 1 cassette Great-aunt Myra is coming to visit, and Mr. and Mrs. Rogers want everything to be exactly right. Amelia Bedelia must help clean the house and prepare dinner, but she keeps getting things mixed up. Whether she is stripping the beds or making a jelly roll, lovable, literal Amelia Bedelia just can't seem to follow directions--or maybe she follows them too well! For preschool-grade 2. 1964. The Twinkie Squad RC 36609 by Gordon Korman read by Barry Bernson 1 cassette Eccentric sixth-grader Douglas Fairchild is obsessed with a country called Pefkakia. Armando Rivera is a basketball player, a defender of weaker kids, and a foreign affairs wiz. They are sent to join the Special Discussion Group (a.k.a. the Twinkie Squad) at Thaddeus G. Little Middle School. Douglas proclaims this after-school counseling group of "problem kids" the Grand Knights of the Exalted Karpoozi and ignites chaos. For grades 5-8. 1992. The Vicar of Nibbleswicke RC 37941 by Roald Dahl read by Jennifer Mendenhall 1 cassette Robert Lee had dyslexia as a child. But, guided by some very good teachers, he largely overcame this disability. Then Robert Lee became Reverend Lee and received his first important job--as vicar of Nibbleswicke. Anxiety triggered a peculiar problem related to his old dyslexia--he would say backwards the most important words in the sentence: hence, God became dog--not a good thing for a preacher. For grades 3-6. 1991. Wanted . . . Mud Blossom RC 37382 by Betsy Byars read by Phil Regensdorf 1 cassette When Junior discovers that the school's hamster, entrusted to his care, has disappeared, he jumps to a conclusion: Pap's dog, Mud, is a murderer. Mud seeks refuge under the porch and awaits his trial. Meanwhile, Mad Mary seems to be missing, and Vern and Michael appear to know more about it than they will admit. And Ralphie persists in his pursuit of Maggie. Companion to A Blossom Promise (RC 28770). For grades 4-7 and older readers. 1991. "Who Was That Masked Man, Anyway?" RC 36781 by Avi read by Scott Sedar 1 cassette The novel unfolds entirely through dialogue; conversations mingle with transcripts of 1940s' radio theater heard by a boy only too ready to imagine himself a hero along the lines of the Lone Ranger or the Green Hornet. Frankie isn't a bad kid, but he's an impulsive and annoying one, trying the patience of his parents; the family's boarder, Mr. Swerdlow; and his long-suffering teacher, Miss Gomez. For grades 4-7 and older readers. 1992. Young Santa RC 36284 by Dan Greenburg read by George Guidall-Shapiro 1 cassette The author, with tongue in cheek, tells how Santa Claus got his name, what his parents were like, and how he came to be a gift bringer. This story brings to life the baby, toddler, and adolescent years (Santa got his learner's permit at fourteen) of the man we know and love. For grades 5-8 and older readers. 1991. Braille Do Bananas Chew Gum? BR 9698 by Jamie Gilson 1 volume As a new kid in a new town, sixth-grader Sam hopes to hide the fact that he can't read. In no time at all, though, both a new girl in his class and a perceptive teacher realize that the smart aleck is no dummy. For grades 5-8. 1980. Fox Outfoxed BR 9413 by James Marshall 1 volume In these three short stories, Fox attempts to win a race dishonestly, gives away all of his comic books, and enjoys Halloween trick-or-treating with his friends. Easy reading for grades 2-4. 1992. Freckle Juice BR 9664 by Judy Blume 1 volume Andrew is so envious of Nicky's beautiful freckles that he pays five weeks' allowance for a secret freckle-juice recipe. For grades 2-4. 1971. Henry and the Clubhouse BR 9260 by Beverly Cleary 1 volume Henry has his hands full with a paper route and a clubhouse project, but things get even more complicated when his friend's little sister keeps interfering and his dog gets in a fight. For grades 3-6. 1962. Henry and the Paper Route BR 9296 by Beverly Cleary 1 volume Henry, eleven, feels it's high time he did something important, and he believes a paper route is just what he needs. When he takes over Scooter's route while he's out with the chicken pox, Henry feels certain he'll get Chuck's route when basketball season starts. But when Murph, the new "genius" in the neighborhood lands the job, Henry's pesky friend Ramona comes to his rescue. Companion to Henry Huggins (BR 7178). For grades 3-6. 1957. "I'm Not Sleepy" BR 8972 by Denys Cazet 1 volume Alex is in bed, but he's not sleepy. So, Father tells him a "no-matter-how-wide-awake-you-are-I-can-make-you-sleepy sleepy story," with humorous results. PRINT/BRAILLE. For preschool-grade 2. 1992. One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish BR 8990 by Dr. Seuss 1 volume Nonsense verses for beginning readers. PRINT/BRAILLE. For preschool-grade 2. 1960. Ramona and Her Mother BR 9251 by Beverly Cleary 1 volume Ramona thinks that because she is the youngest one in her family she often gets treated unfairly. For grades 3-6. 1979. Rats on the Range and Other Stories BR 9791 by James Marshall 1 volume Eight humorous stories about an unusual assortment of animals including a rat family that vacations at a dude ranch owned by rat terriers, a mouse who is the housekeeper for a tomcat, and a buzzard who may or may not leave his money to the Society for Stray Cats. Companion to Rats on the Roof and Other Stories (BR 8896). For grades 2-4 and older readers. 1993. Silly Sally BR 9917 by Audrey Wood 1 volume A nonsense story in rhyme about Silly Sally and the friends that she makes as she travels to town--backward and upside down. PRINT/BRAILLE. For preschool-grade 2. 1992. Wanted...Mud Blossom BR 9419 by Betsy Byars 1 volume When Junior discovers that the school's hamster, entrusted to his care, has disappeared, he jumps to a conclusion: Pap's dog, Mud, is a murderer. Mud seeks refuge under the porch and awaits his trial. Meanwhile, Mad Mary seems to be missing, and Vern and Michael appear to know more about it than they will admit. And Ralphie persists in his pursuit of Maggie. Companion to A Blossom Promise (RC 28770, BR 8697). For grades 4-7 and older readers. 1991. Mystery Cassettes Ali Baba Bernstein: Lost and Found RC 38462 by Johanna Hurwitz read by John Polk 1 cassette Ten-year-old Ali Baba Bernstein, alias David Bernstein, is involved in a series of adventures that include hunting for a bear in Yellowstone National Park, solving a mystery involving a glass slipper, and searching New York City for his lost mother. For grades 2-4 and older readers. 1992. The Baby-sitter RC 36923 by R.L. Stine read by Virginia Kearns 1 cassette Jenny had been apprehensive from the start about accepting the Hagens' baby-sitting job. She had met their young son, Donny, quite by accident at the shopping mall. Donny had become instantly attached to her, and his parents had offered her the job on Thursday and Saturday nights. Now she sat in their dark, eerie house--alive with creaks and groans--as a stranger prowled in the yard. Some violence. For junior and senior high readers. 1989. The Baby-sitter II RC 36925 by R.L. Stine read by Virginia Kearns 1 cassette There have been a series of attacks on baby-sitters. Still, Jenny accepts a baby-sitting job for cute little Donny Hagen. Donny's father seems very tense and a bit strange, as does his neighbor. And Donny loves to frighten his sitter. When Jenny receives disturbing calls while babysitting for Donny, she wonders if she is being stalked by the attacker. Sequel to The Baby-sitter (RC 36923). Some violence. For junior and senior high readers. 1991. Beastie RC 38029 by Georgess McHargue read by Ilona Dulaski 1 cassette Mary Wendell, Theo Chun, and Scott Hanford have accompanied their parents on an expedition to a Scottish loch to find a creature that supposedly resides there. While their parents are employing sophisticated scientific methods, the trio is conducting its own investigation, determined to find the monster first and become famous. They meet a young girl who has befriended the "beastie" and learn that its life is in danger. For grades 3-6. 1992. Bus Station Mystery RC 37359 by Gertrude Chandler Warner read by Michael Pinney 1 cassette The Aldens--Henry, Jessie, Violet, and Benny--have decided to visit a science fair thirty miles from their New England home, and they'll be traveling by bus. As they depart they run into two mysterious boys and a perturbed Frank Timmons, who manages the bus station. He seems linked to a paint factory that the Aldens discover is polluting a river. A Boxcar Children mystery. For grades 3-6 and older readers. 1974. Caboose Mystery RC 37357 by Gertrude Chandler Warner read by Michael Pinney 1 cassette The Aldens--Henry, Jessie, Violet, and Benny--will be spending the summer traveling in an old-fashioned wooden caboose that belongs to a friend of Grandfather Alden. It used to be a circus caboose, Number 777, and it has a mysterious past that the Aldens soon become enmeshed in. A Boxcar Children mystery. For grades 3-6 and older readers. 1966. Choosing Sides RC 38438 by Carolyn Keene read by Carole Jordan Stewart 1 cassette Nancy Drew first meets Caroline Hill, the district attorney for River Heights, through Nancy's father, Carson Drew, a criminal lawyer. When Caroline announces her candidacy for mayor, Nancy eagerly signs on as a volunteer. She does not know that she will soon be working to clear her candidate of murder charges. Bobby Rouse, who threatened to implicate Caroline in a bribery scandal, has been found dead. A Nancy Drew mystery for grades 4-7. 1993. The Dead Man in Indian Creek RC 36604 by Mary Downing Hahn read by John Polk 1 cassette Parker and Matt, both twelve, decide to camp out one last time before it becomes too cold and stumble upon a dead man. Parker swears he saw George Evans--his widowed mother's boyfriend and his least favorite person--at the scene of the crime. Thus begins a peril-laden adventure that includes a cocaine ring in which Parker's mother and George are involved. For grades 5-7 and older readers. 1990. Die Softly RC 39071 by Christopher Pike read by Erik Sandvold 1 cassette Herb, nineteen and yet to go on a date, is photographing the cheerleaders for the yearbook. That seems as close as he'll ever get to his fantasy, Alexa. Hiding his camera in the locker room showers, Herb hopes to get a sexy photo. Before he develops his film, another cheerleader, Lisa, dies in a car accident. But Herb's picture shows Lisa naked in the shower being approached by Alexa with a baseball bat. Violence. For junior and senior high readers. 1991. The Egypt Game RC 37531 by Zilpha Keatley Snyder read by Lynn Schrichte 1 cassette (Reissue) A group of children entranced by the study of Egypt play their own Egypt game with secret meetings, rites, and ceremonies in an abandoned yard behind the antique shop. The game helps an unhappy eleven-year-old solve her personal problems and leads to the identification of the lurking stranger. For grades 4-7. 1976. The Face on the Milk Carton RC 36957 by Caroline B. Cooney read by June Carter 1 cassette The message on the milk carton reads, "Have you seen this child?" Three-year-old Jennie Spring was kidnapped twelve years earlier, but Janie Johnson, looking at the photo, suddenly knows that she is that child. Fragments of memory and other evidence accumulate until Janie demands to know about her early childhood. Her parents confess what they believe true, that she is their grandchild, but Janie remains unconvinced. For junior and senior high readers. 1990. Fell Back RC 37425 by M.E. Kerr read by Christopher Hurt 1 cassette John Fell, the son of a detective, returns after a holiday to the prep school where he has been sent by a rich benefactor and discovers that a fellow Sevens club member, Lasher, has fallen to his death from the tower on campus. Fell is determined to find out if the death is an accident, a suicide, or a murder, and he soon is involved in a mystery that includes another death. Sequel to Fell (RC 29340). For junior and senior high readers. 1989. Fell Down RC 36616 by M.E. Kerr read by Christopher Hurt 1 cassette John Fell, seventeen, is distraught over the death of his best friend, Dib, in a car accident. John is further struggling to understand the death of Lenny Last, a washed-up Las Vegas comedian-ventriloquist and former Gardner School student, a search that leads him into a twenty-year-old mystery. Sequel to Fell (RC 29340) and Fell Back (RC 37425). For junior and senior high readers. 1991. The Fire-Raiser RC 36606 by Maurice Gee read by John Polk 1 cassette New Zealand, 1915. Lurking in dark alleyways in a black coat and red balaclava, disturbed Edgar Marwick finds release from his tyrannical mother by setting fires. The baker's adventurous kids, Noel and Kitty; the mayor's over-protected child, Irene; and homeless Phil band together and bravely gather evidence that indicts Marwick. While seeking justice, they witness the prejudice against their German music teacher. For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1986. Flatfoot Fox and the Case of the Missing Eye RC 36652 by Eth Clifford read by John Horton 1 cassette Flatfoot Fox, who claims to be the smartest detective in the whole world, and his assistant, Secretary Bird, have just been approached by Fat Cat--someone has stolen his glass eye! The theft took place at Fat Cat's very own birthday party. Suspects include Really Ridiculous Rabbit, Picky Pig, Greedy Goat, and Snake-in-the Grass. Companion to Flatfoot Fox and the Case of the Nosy Otter (RC 36554). For grades 2-4. 1990. Flatfoot Fox and the Case of the Nosy Otter RC 36554 by Eth Clifford read by John Horton 1 cassette Mrs. Chatterbox Otter's son, Nosy Otter, is missing, and Flatfoot Fox and his trusty aid, Secretary Bird, have agreed to take the case. They are determined to find the kidnapper before Mrs. Chatterbox Otter's constant patter drives them both crazy! The suspects include Lame-Brain Swan and Terribly Worried Woodchuck. Companion to Flatfoot Fox and the Case of the Missing Eye (RC 36652). For grades 2-4. 1992. The Ghost from beneath the Sea RC 37434 by Bill Brittain read by Michael Pinney 1 cassette The ghosts of Parnell House are in trouble again. Essie, who drowned in a riverboat accident in the 1800s, and Horace, beheaded during the Revolutionary War, are joined by Ellsworth Parnell. Ellsworth succumbed in the sinking of the Titanic, but not before he lost the deed to Parnell House in a poker game. Now the descendant of the man who won the deed has come to claim the property. Sequel to Who Knew There'd Be Ghosts? (RC 24448). For grades 4-7. 1992. The Ghost of Lost Island RC 36626 by Liza Ketchum Murrow read by Gary Tipton 1 cassette Gabe, twelve, resents his bossy older sister and is overjoyed that Grandfather is taking only him--not Ginny--along for the annual sheep-shearing on Ghost Island off the Maine coast. Although Grandfather blames Gabe's suspicions on an overworked imagination, Gabe is convinced that the mysterious woman he encounters is the legendary ghost of a drowned dairymaid. For grades 5-8. 1991. The Ghosts of Mercy Manor RC 39002 by Betty Ren Wright read by Kerry Cundiff 1 cassette Orphaned Gwen Maxwell, twelve, is angry and upset when her much-older brother shunts her off to a foster family instead of taking her in. Determined not to like the Mercys, she soon finds life with Tessie, a curious five-year-old; Jason, sixteen and a budding playwright; and their parents quite pleasant. Disrupting the harmony are ghosts that threaten to reveal dreadful secrets suppressed by Mrs. Mercy. For grades 5-8 and older readers. 1993. Houseboat Mystery RC 37358 by Gertrude Chandler Warner read by Michael Pinney 1 cassette One hot July day, the Aldens--grandfather, Henry, Jessie, Violet, Benny, and their dog Watch--take a drive in hopes of cooling off. To their surprise, they discover a road leading to a small river and meet up with a Mr. Rivers who rents out a houseboat by the week. Renting the boat, they soon find themselves stalked, and they are determined to find out why. For grades 3-6. 1967. Kristy and the Haunted Mansion RC 38229 by Ann M. Martin read by Madelyn Buzzard 1 cassette Thirteen-year-old Kristy Thomas has a softball team called the Krushers. Her older brother, Bart, has a team called the Bashers. They have formed an all-star team called the Krashers, and this Saturday they are traveling thirty miles to play in Redfield. On the way back, there is a huge storm. It is so terrible that Bart cannot drive, and the only place to take shelter is in a house that looks haunted. A Baby-sitters Club mystery for grades 4-7. 1993. Liars RC 37690 by P.J. Petersen read by Phil Regensdorf 1 cassette His newly discovered ability to dowse (detect underground water with a forked stick) surprises fourteen-year-old Sam, but he is totally taken aback by his newfound ability to know when someone is lying. As mysterious events unfold in his remote village in northern California, Sam's clairvoyance makes him suspicious of nearly everyone, including his own father. For grades 5-8. 1992. The Mystery at the Dog Show RC 37832 by Gertrude Chandler Warner read by Michael Pinney 1 cassette Henry, Jessie, Violet, and Benny, once orphans living in a boxcar, now live with their grandfather. He has just received a letter from an old friend, Mrs. Annabel Teague, who is coming to Greenfield for the annual dog show to enter her prized golden retriever. The children are excited about their first dog show and the myriad of dogs they see. Then strange things happen that threaten the day. A Boxcar Children book for grades 3-6. 1993. The Mystery in the Snow RC 37834 by Gertrude Chandler Warner read by Michael Pinney 1 cassette The "boxcar children" Henry, Jessie, Violet, and Benny--once alone in the woods living in a boxcar and now happily under the care of their grandfather--are at Snow Haven Lodge for their winter vacation. They look forward to competing in the lodge's annual carnival, and sign up for a host of events. But things are not right from the very start, and the children are determined to find out why. A Boxcar Children book for grades 3-6. 1993. The Mystery of the Cupboard RC 36485 by Lynne Reid Banks read by John Polk 1 cassette Omri's family has inherited a house, and they have moved to the country. During repair work on the roof, Omri finds a journal and a box that once belonged to his great-great-aunt Jessica Charlotte. The diary contains information about the origin of the magic cupboard, and the box contains more plastic figures. Sequel to Secret of the Indian (RC 35632). For grades 4-7 and older readers. 1993. The Mystery of the Singing Ghost RC 37835 by Gertrude Chandler Warner read by Michael Pinney 1 cassette Henry, Jessie, Violet, and Benny, who lived as orphans in a boxcar until their grandfather found them, happily share his home. Now, they will be around even more family because their cousins, Joe and Alice, are moving to Greenfield. The children want to help fix up Joe and Alice's new house before they arrive. But the house is either haunted or someone is trying to scare them away. A Boxcar Children book for grades 3-6. 1992. The Old Motel Mystery RC 38516 by Gertrude Chandler Warner read by Michael Pinney 1 cassette The Alden children--Henry, Jessie, Violet, and Benny--fly to Florida with Aunt Jane, who has come to visit her friend, Kay Kingsley. The motel that Kay runs in Lyndale is very run-down; it was in bad shape when she inherited it and she hasn't been able to fix it up. Kay is thinking of selling out and moving to an apartment. The children offer to fix the place up but someone seems bent on stopping them. A Boxcar Children mystery for grades 3-6 and older readers. 1992. The Pizza Mystery RC 37833 by Gertrude Chandler Warner read by Michael Pinney 1 cassette The four Alden children--Henry, Jessie, Violet, and Benny--who once lived as orphans and now live with their grandfather, love to eat at Piccolos' Pizza, run by old friends of Mr. Alden. Business at the pizzeria has fallen off, and Mr. and Mrs. Piccolo are pleased when the children offer to help. Soon, however, the children come to suspect that someone is deliberately trying to close down the business. A Boxcar Children book for grades 3-6. 1993. Tagged for Terror RC 38443 by Franklin W. Dixon read by David Palmer 1 cassette Eddings Air has hired Joe and Frank Hardy to investigate a series of luggage thefts that are threatening to send the airline into bankruptcy. Disguised as baggage handlers, the Hardys discover a conspiracy that threatens more than the survival of the young airline. It includes sabotage and murder. A Hardy Boys mystery for grades 4-7. 1993. The Trouble with Lemons RC 36886 by Daniel Hayes read by John Stratton 1 cassette Tyler feels like he is a total failure--a magnet for trouble. His father is dead, and his mother and brother are movie stars away for long periods of time. When Tyler and his best friend, Lymie, go to the local quarry for a forbidden late-night dip, they find themselves swimming with a dead body. Making a swift retreat, they anonymously report their discovery to the sheriff, and then try to puzzle out the mystery themselves. For grades 6-9. 1991. Welcome to Dead House RC 38057 by R.L. Stine read by Ilona Dulaski 1 cassette Amanda, twelve; Josh, eleven; and Petey, the dog, hate their new house. It's a huge old house in a town called Dark Falls that their dad inherited from a great-uncle whom he doesn't remember. And, a free house means that Dad can quit his boring job and concentrate on his writing career. They do not know that the town is peopled with the living dead and that their family has come to "Dead House" to provide fresh blood, and die. For grades 4-7 and older readers. 1992. Braille Bus Station Mystery BR 9496 by Gertrude Chandler Warner 1 volume The Aldens--Henry, Jessie, Violet, and Benny--have decided to visit a science fair thirty miles from their New England home, and they'll be traveling by bus. As they depart they run into two mysterious boys and a perturbed Frank Timmons, who manages the bus station. He seems linked to a paint factory that the Aldens discover is polluting a river. A Boxcar Children mystery. For grades 3-6 and older readers. 1974. Choosing Sides BR 9688 by Carolyn Keene 1 volume Nancy Drew first meets Caroline Hill, the district attorney for River Heights, through Nancy's father, Carson Drew, a criminal lawyer. When Caroline announces her candidacy for mayor, Nancy eagerly signs on as a volunteer. She does not know that she will soon be working to clear her candidate of murder charges. Bobby Rouse, who threatened to implicate Caroline in a bribery scandal, has been found dead. A Nancy Drew mystery for grades 4-7. 1993. The Egypt Game BR 9393 by Zilpha Keatley Snyder 1 volume A group of children entranced by the study of Egypt play their own Egypt game with secret meetings, rites, and ceremonies in an abandoned yard behind the antique shop. The game helps an unhappy eleven-year-old solve her personal problems and leads to the identification of the lurking stranger. For grades 4-7. 1976. A Handful of Thieves BR 9504 by Nina Bawden 1 volume When a confidence man disappears with Fred's grandmother's savings, five children--who call themselves the Cemetery Committee--set out to find the man and recover the money. For grades 3-6. 1967. Mike's Mystery BR 9678 by Gertrude Chandler Warner 1 volume The Alden children--Henry, Jessie, Violet, and Benny--can't wait for summer vacation so they can get back to Mystery Ranch, where Aunt Jane lives. Last summer uranium was discovered on the ranch, and stores, churches, and schools have come with the influx of miners. An old friend from back East, Mike Wood, has also moved nearby. When his house burns down in a mysterious fire, Mike is a prime suspect. A Boxcar Children mystery for grades 3-6 and older readers. 1960. The Mystery of the Cupboard BR 9255 by Lynne Reid Banks 2 volumes Omri's family has inherited a house, and they have moved to the country. During repair work on the roof, Omri finds a journal and a box that once belonged to his great-great-aunt Jessica Charlotte. The diary contains information about the origin of the magic cupboard, and the box contains more plastic figures. Sequel to Secret of the Indian (BR 9141). For grades 4-7 and older readers. 1993. The Old Motel Mystery BR 9674 by Gertrude Chandler Warner 1 volume The Alden children--Henry, Jessie, Violet, and Benny--fly to Florida with Aunt Jane, who has come to visit her friend, Kay Kingsley. The motel that Kay runs in Lyndale is very run-down; it was in bad shape when she inherited it and she hasn't been able to fix it up. Kay is thinking of selling out and moving to an apartment. The children offer to fix the place up but someone seems bent on stopping them. A Boxcar Children mystery for grades 3-6 and older readers. 1992. Tagged for Terror BR 9694 by Franklin W. Dixon 1 volume Eddings Air has hired Joe and Frank Hardy to investigate a series of luggage thefts that are threatening to send the airline into bankruptcy. Disguised as baggage handlers, the Hardys discover a conspiracy that threatens more than the survival of the young airline. It includes sabotage and murder. A Hardy Boys mystery for grades 4-7. 1993. Native Americans Cassettes Canyons RC 36800 by Gary Paulsen read by Scott Sedar 1 cassette In 1864 young Apache brave Coyote Runs, cornered in a canyon, is shot by U.S. soldiers during the raid that was to make him a man. Over one hundred years later, his skull, with a hole through its forehead, is discovered by Brennan Cole, a fifteen-year-old loner who is camping in the canyons outside El Paso, Texas. Brennan is compelled to learn the story behind the skull and to bring peace to Coyote Runs's restless spirit. For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1990. Coyote Steals the Blanket: A Ute Tale RC 38478 retold by Janet Stevens read by Laura Giannarelli 1 cassette Coyote, not one to take advice, ignores the warning of Hummingbird and swipes a beautiful blanket draped over a huge rock, thus angering the spirit of the desert. The rock takes off in hot pursuit of Coyote in this humorous Ute trickster tale. For grades K-3. 1993. Crow Chief: A Plains Indian Story RC 38567 by Paul Goble read by Nick Sullivan 1 cassette In this Native American tale, Crow Chief always warns the buffalo when the hunters are approaching. That is, until Falling Star, the savior, comes to the camp and teaches Crow Chief that all must share and live together. For grades 2-4 and older readers. 1992. Dream Wolf RC 36651 by Paul Goble read by John Stratton 1 cassette In this Plains Indian tale, young Tiblo and his little sister Tanksi lose their way in the hills, and, as darkness falls, they find refuge in a cave. That night Tiblo dreams that a wolf appears to watch over them. When he awakens, the dream has come true, and the wolf guides the two children home. For grades 2-4 and older readers. 1990. The Girl Who Loved Wild Horses RC 38551 by Paul Goble read by John Horton 1 cassette A tale of a young Native American girl who loved horses in a very special way. The people in her village noticed how she understood the wild horses, and how she could speak softly and the horses would follow her. Although fond of her parents and her tribe, the girl would at last become one of the Horse People. Caldecott Medal. For grades 2-4 and older readers. 1978. How Raven Brought Light to People RC 38202 retold by Ann Dixon read by Andy Chappell 1 cassette A long time ago, the earth was new, and the people had no light. A great chief hid the sun, the moon, and the stars in three wooden boxes. Raven grew tired of the darkness and angry that the chief kept the light from earth's people. This is a tale of how Raven tricks the chief out of the boxes and gains black feathers in the process. Adapted from an Alaskan Tlingit Indian legend. For grades K-3 and older readers. 1992. Kunu: Escape on the Missouri RC 36667 by Kenneth Thomasma read by John Stratton 1 cassette As his father fights for the Union Army in the Civil War, Kunu, along with his mother, sisters, grandfather, and nearly 2,000 other Winnebago people are forcibly removed from their ancestral lands in Minnesota and taken to Crow Creek, South Dakota. Hundreds die. Kunu's grandfather is determined to return to his homeland to die, and he and Kunu embark on an incredible journey, dodging soldiers and nearly drowning. For grades 4-7 and older readers. 1989. The Lost Children: The Boys Who Were Neglected RC 39165 by Paul Goble read by Suzanne Toren 1 cassette In this retelling of a Blackfoot Indian legend, six orphaned brothers are neglected by the people, teased by the children, and loved only by the camp dogs. They decide to leave for the Above World, where Sun Man grows angry upon hearing of their neglect and punishes the people. Today the orphans shine in the sky as the Pleiades stars, or "the Lost Children." For grades K-3 and older readers. 1993. Love Flute RC 36819 retold by Paul Goble read by Laura Giannarelli 1 cassette In this Native American legend, a young man is too shy to woo the woman he loves. He's brave in battle and a leader in the buffalo hunt, but he's afraid to speak to her, though he longs to stand with her draped in his blanket and confess his love. Sad and lonely, he wanders into the forest, where two Elk Men bring him a flute that the birds and animals have made. It is a flute that will speak to the heart of the woman he loves. For grades 3-6 and older readers. 1992. Morning Girl RC 37957 by Michael Dorris read by Marilyn Gleason 1 cassette Morning Girl, twelve, and her younger brother, Star Boy, are Taino Indians living on a Bahamian island in 1492. In chapters alternating between the first-person voices of Morning Girl, who loves the day, and Star Boy, who loves the night, we learn of their differences and of various events in the lives of their family and community. In her last narrative, Morning Girl witnesses the arrival of the first Europeans. For grades 3-6 and older readers. 1992. Pathki Nana: Kootenai Girl RC 36729 by Kenneth Thomasma read by Pam Ward 1 cassette Pathki Nana, an eight-year-old Kootenai Indian girl, is always sad. She can often be seen walking alone, going off by herself, with tears streaming down her face. The other villagers call Pathki "the sad one." When her grandmother, Quiet One, tells Pathki the story of Pathki's birth and instructs her to seek her guardian spirit, Pathki's strength, wisdom, and courage are tested. For grades 4-7. 1991. Raven: A Trickster Tale from the Pacific Northwest RC 38685 by Gerald McDermott read by John Stratton 1 cassette Along the Pacific Northwest coast, Raven is the central character in the myths and legends of Native Americans. In this tale, Raven, feeling sad for the men and women living in the dark and cold, devises a clever plan to steal the sun from the Sky Chief to bring light and warmth to the people. For grades K-3 and older readers. 1993. Red Hunters and the Animal People RC 37176 by Charles A. Eastman read by Jill Ferris 1 cassette First published in 1904, this classic collection of twelve folktales from the Dakota people reflects Native American attitudes toward hunting and animals. Included are "Wechah the Provider," "The Sky Warrior," and "Hootay of the Little Rosebud." For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1904. Braille Dreamcatcher BR 8983 by Audrey Osofsky 1 volume The Ojibway Indians of the northern Midwest believe in the special power of dreams. While good dreams are a source of knowledge, bad dreams forebode harm and ill will. In this lyrical story, big sister weaves baby a dream net for protection against bad dreams, as baby sleeps and the village community goes about its daily activities. PRINT/BRAILLE. For preschool-grade 2. 1992. The Light in the Forest BR 9589 by Conrad Richter 1 volume Once he was John Cameron Butler, but for the past eleven years, True Son, a fifteen-year-old white boy raised by Indians, has been the loved and adopted child of a great Lenni Lenape warrior. Now, forcibly returned to his family, True Son cannot believe that the pallid man standing before him in a garment the color of a woman's expects True Son to accept him as his father. For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1953. Naya Nuki: Girl Who Ran BR 9222 by Kenneth Thomasma 1 volume Naya Nuki, an eleven-year-old Shoshoni Indian, is taken captive and enslaved by a rival Native American tribe. Escaping to the woods, she lives off the land for a month and treks 1,000 miles back to her Shoshoni camp. For grades 5-8. 1983. Soun Tetoken: Nez Perce Boy BR 9264 by Kenneth Thomasma 1 volume Soun Tetoken (silent one) is a young Nez Perce boy who is mute from a fire accident in his childhood. The boy learns to adapt to his silent state; he trains his horse and small coyote friend to obey hand and foot signs. A vivid portrayal of traditional Nez Perce culture. For grades 5-8. 1984. School Cassettes Angel Child, Dragon Child RC 37510 by Michele Maria Surat read by Kimberly Schraf 1 cassette It is Ut's first day at school. She has come with her sisters because her mother is still in Vietnam, but Ut carries her picture in a matchbox. An American boy with red hair shouts that she is wearing pajamas to school, and the other kids join in the laughter. But Ut and Raymond (the American boy) become friends when they are sent to the principal's office for fighting, and he helps to bring a gift to Ut and her family. For preschool-grade 2. 1983. The Bicycle Man RC 37297 by Allen Say read by Barbara Rappaport 1 cassette The author, who grew up on the south island of Japan, vividly recalls a "sportsday" held at his school. World War II had been over for less than one year, and two American soldiers appeared. As a fitting finale to the day, the two performed amazing tricks on the principal's bicycle. For grades K-3. 1982. The Boy Who Owned the School: A Comedy of Love RC 38433 by Gary Paulsen read by John Polk 1 cassette High school student Jacob Freisten thinks of himself as a loser, a wimp, a nobody who's perfected the art of near invisibility. But his attempts to avoid notice at all costs are foiled when his English teacher, Mrs. Hilsak, gives him the chance to earn extra credit and pass English by working on the school play. He will control the fog machine. Maria Tresser, on whom he has an intense crush, has a starring role. For grades 6-9. 1990. Buster, the Sheikh of Hope Street RC 38134 by Bjarne Reuter read by Ed Blake 1 cassette Continues the adventures and misadventures of Buster Mortensen, a highly imaginative Danish schoolboy. Buster is out to get the lead role--that of the dashing Sheikh Suleiman--in the school play. For grades 5-8. Sequel to Buster's World (RC 32315). 1980. Caroline's Mystery Dolls RC 38419 by Molly Mia Stewart read by Kerry Cundiff 1 cassette Caroline Pearce, who's in the second grade with twins Jessica and Elizabeth Wakefield, is not well liked by her classmates. She tries to be the teacher's pet, and lately she's taken to bragging about her porcelain doll collection. When Jessica challenges Caroline to produce the dolls, she reluctantly agrees to bring them to school for "Show and Tell." But when Caroline opens her doll case, it's empty! A Sweet Valley Kids book for grades 2-4. 1991. Charlotte Shakespeare and Annie the Great RC 36595 by Barbara Ware Holmes read by Kerry Cundiff 1 cassette Charlotte Cheetham has been commissioned by her teacher, Mrs. Sanchez, to write a Halloween play for her sixth-grade class. The play is funny and scary, and Charlotte thinks her best friend, Annie, is perfect for the lead. Soon everyone else is equally impressed with Annie's talent; so much so that Charlotte begins to feel left out. For grades 4-7. 1989. Chrysanthemum RC 37639 by Kevin Henkes read by Jennifer Mendenhall 1 cassette The day she was born was the happiest day in her parents' lives, and they wanted her to have a precious, priceless, and fascinating name--so they named her Chrysanthemum. Chrysanthemum loves her name. She thinks it is absolutely perfect. That is, until the day she starts school and the other kids laugh upon hearing her name when the teacher calls the roll. For preschool-grade 2. 1991. Class President RC 36364 by Johanna Hurwitz read by Lynn Schrichte 1 cassette The campaign is on for president of the fifth-grade class, and the leading contenders are Lucas Cott, the class clown, and Cricket Kaufman, who plans to be the first woman president of the nation. Julio Sanchez, who would love to run for the office but figures he has no chance of winning, is Lucas's campaign manager. But when Julio shows his leadership abilities, a surprise is in the offing. For grades 3-6. 1990. Dear Mom, Get Me Out of Here! RC 36666 by Ellen Conford read by John Stratton 1 cassette Anxious to be off to Switzerland, Paul Tanner's parents dump him at a boarding school they haven't bothered to visit. And it is a nightmare come true for Paul. His roommate is convinced that he can fly; the gym teacher holds checker practice outside in the snow; the janitor is incapable of fixing anything; and the editor of the school newspaper asks Paul to help him prove that the headmaster has a shocking past. For grades 5-8 and older readers. 1992. Dogs Don't Tell Jokes RC 35695 by Louis Sachar read by Gary Tipton 1 cassette Seventh-grader Gary "Goon" Boone tells jokes constantly. He thinks he's funny; his parents, teachers, and classmates don't. They just think he's obnoxious. Hearing about a school talent contest, Boone signs up, sure that his performance will launch his career as a stand-up comic. But as the contest nears, he becomes aware of how others perceive him and drops out of the contest to just be "normal." For grades 5-8. 1991. Horrible Harry and the Ant Invasion RC 39113 by Suzy Kline read by John Polk 1 cassette Horrible Harry is a second-grader with a knack for mischief. When Miss Mackle's ant farm arrives, it's plain to all that Mrs. Foxworth, the school secretary, is scared to death of ants. So Harry places the vial of ants on top of her yogurt in the teachers' refrigerator! Harry isn't horrible when it comes to Song Lee, however. Companion to Horrible Harry in Room 2B (RC 32727). For grades K-3 and older readers. 1989. Horrible Harry and the Christmas Surprise RC 38613 by Suzy Kline read by John Polk 1 cassette The collapse of Miss Mackle's squeaky old rocking chair, with her in it, certainly gives her class a good laugh, but unfortunately it puts her in the hospital for the Christmas season. Now Mr. Cardini, the principal, must try to play her role as Mother Goose in Room 2B's holiday skit. More important for Harry is the question of a Christmas gift that will make Miss Mackle feel better. For grades K-3. 1991. Horrible Harry and the Green Slime RC 38612 by Suzy Kline read by John Polk 1 cassette If you are in Miss Mackle's second-grade class with Horrible Harry, boredom is the least of your worries. In these four short stories, Harry leads his schoolmates in a secret mission to celebrate Charlotte's Web, teaches his classmates to make green slime (while the principal is watching), puts on a skit that warns about the dangers of smoking, and has trouble being a "secret pal." For grades 2-4. 1989. Horrible Harry and the Kickball Wedding RC 38227 by Suzy Kline read by John Polk 1 cassette Horrible Harry is a second-grader who loves horrible things. He's had a crush on Song Lee ever since she brought a potato beetle to show-and-tell in kindergarten. Harry also loves kickball. As Valentine's Day draws near, the kids in room 2B gear up for kickball and a possible wedding between Horrible Harry and Song Lee. Companion to Horrible Harry's Secret (RC 33366). For grades K-3. 1992. Keep Ms. Sugarman in the Fourth Grade RC 38367 by Elizabeth Levy read by Pam Ward 1 cassette After her first three years of school, during which her excessive enthusiasm has been neither appreciated nor understood, Jackie has a teacher that she's grown to like. And, perhaps more importantly, Ms. Sugarman likes her for who she is. But now, in the middle of the school year, Ms. Sugarman is leaving the fourth grade to become the interim principal. For grades 3-6. 1992. Kool Ada RC 36112 by Sheila Solomon Klass read by Barbara Rappaport 1 cassette Deaths in her family and the loss of her home have robbed Ada, eleven, of speech and of any interest in the world outside the children's programs on TV. Sent north to live with her aunt in Chicago, unresponsive Ada, with hot temper and ready fists, quickly lands in a "special" class. Ms. Walker, the teacher, is caring and capable, and--with Aunt Lottie and Mr. McCoy, the building super--helps Ada to overcome her grief. For grades 5-8. 1991. The Math Wiz RC 36402 by Betsy Duffey read by Andy Chappell 1 cassette Marty Malone can do math problems better and faster than any other third grader. There isn't a problem he can't solve; that is, until he gets to gym class. Every day Marty is last pick when teams are chosen. Thinking of his troubles as a math equation (Math Wiz + P.E.= Misery), Marty tries and fails to solve his problem alone. But when a sensitive teacher adds a new term (Math Wiz + P.E. + A Friend = ?), Marty finds an answer. For grades 2-4. 1990. Muggie Maggie RC 36059 by Beverly Cleary read by Barbara Rappaport 1 cassette Third-grader Maggie, out of pure contrariness, refuses to learn cursive writing. After consultation with the principal, her parents, and a psychologist, Maggie's teacher sends her around the school bearing notes written in cursive, which so pique her interest that she learns in self-defense. For grades 2-4. 1990. The Rag Coat RC 36292 by Lauren Mills read by Catherine Byers 1 cassette Minna, eight, has never been to school. Papa got sick with the miner's cough just when Minna turned old enough for school, so she had to stay home to help Mama, who sewed day and night on her quilts trying to make ends meet. Before Papa died he promised to get Minna a coat so that she could finally start school, but he didn't have a chance to. Now, Minna and the "quilting mothers" have come up with an idea for a wonderful coat. For grades 2-4. 1991. Stepsisters RC 38248 by Kate William read by Kerry Cundiff 1 cassette Annie Whitman, Jessica and Elizabeth Wakefield's friend and sorority sister, will soon be their neighbor as well. Annie's mother is marrying a famous black photographer, and the family, which will include Cheryl--Annie's new stepsister--will be moving next door to the Wakefields. Annie is eager to make Cheryl feel at home at Sweet Valley High, but Cheryl doesn't seem interested in fitting in. A Sweet Valley High book for grades 6-9. 1993. Thank You, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.! RC 37841 by Eleanora E. Tate read by Nona Pipes 1 cassette Fourth grader Mary Elouise Avery has low self-esteem--she hates being African American, loathes her dark complexion, and is embarrassed about slavery. She is unhappy when she is chosen to narrate the new black history segment at her school's annual Presidents' Month play. That is, until two storytellers help make her proud of her African American heritage. Companion to The Secret of Gumbo Grove (RC 27484). For grades 4-7. 1990. Three Names RC 36329 by Patricia MacLachlan read by Pam Ward 1 cassette When Great-grandfather was a young boy--"a hundred years ago," he jokes--he went to a one-room school on the prairie. In this story, he reminisces about his school days and about Three Names, the dog who went everywhere with him--even to school. For grades K-3. 1991. The Twinkie Squad RC 36609 by Gordon Korman read by Barry Bernson 1 cassette Eccentric sixth-grader Douglas Fairchild is obsessed with a country called Pefkakia. Armando Rivera is a basketball player, a defender of weaker kids, and a foreign affairs wiz. They are sent to join the Special Discussion Group (a.k.a. the Twinkie Squad) at Thaddeus G. Little Middle School. Douglas proclaims this after-school counseling group of "problem kids" the Grand Knights of the Exalted Karpoozi and ignites chaos. For grades 5-8. 1992. What Mary Jo Shared RC 36684 by Janice May Udry read by Catherine Byers 1 cassette Mary Jo never, ever participates in share time at school. Mary Jo is shy, and she is afraid that the other kids won't be interested in what she has to tell. She really does want to share, but she wants to share something that no one else has talked about. Finally, Mary Jo finds the perfect "something" to share--her father! Companion to What Mary Jo Wanted (RC 17070). For grades K-3. 1966. Braille Buster, The Sheikh of Hope Street BR 9535 by Bjarne Reuter 1 volume Continues the adventures and misadventures of Buster Mortensen, a highly imaginative Danish schoolboy. Buster is out to get the lead role--that of the dashing Sheikh Suleiman--in the school play. For grades 5-8. Sequel to Buster's World (BR 8390). 1980. Do Bananas Chew Gum? BR 9698 by Jamie Gilson 1 volume As a new kid in a new town, sixth-grader Sam hopes to hide the fact that he can't read. In no time at all, though, both a new girl in his class and a perceptive teacher realize that the smart aleck is no dummy. For grades 5-8. 1980. Science Fiction Cassettes Alien Secrets RC 37955 by Annette Curtis Klause read by June Carter 1 cassette Aboard a space freighter en route to the planet where her scientist parents are based, Robin (Puck) Goodfellow, almost thirteen and recently expelled from her proper English boarding school, befriends an alien called Hush (for short). Hush has had a cherished artifact stolen from him, and he believes it is on the ship. Puck vows to help him retrieve it and is soon enmeshed in a mystery with an abundance of suspects. For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1993. Dydeetown World RC 39297 by F. Paul Wilson read by Christopher Walker 1 cassette Earth, deserted by the "good people," has been left to the dregs of society: criminals, drug users, street urchins, and clones of dead movie idols. One honest detective remains--Sigmundo "Siggy" Dreyer--who agrees to take the case of a Jean Harlow clone. She is looking for her lover, and the search leds Dreyer to a tyrannosaurus watchdog, a drug kingpin, and a chance to become a hero to the urchins. For junior and senior high and older readers. 1989. Experiment in Terror RC 36690 by Bernal C. Payne, Jr. read by J.P. Linton 1 cassette Seven sixteen-year-olds, all born on the same day, are best friends. When six of them disappear one after another, Steve, the last remaining, is determined to find them. Steve discovers that he has unusual powers and that he can read minds and influence thoughts. When the missing six make contact with Steve, he learns that he and his friends are aliens from another planet. For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1987. Fruit Blasterz from Outer Space RC 37821 by Brooke Stauffer read by Michael Pinney 1 cassette Gregory, a fan of the television program "Blasterz from Space," believes that his older brother Howard stole the tiny figures from the cartons of drink mix. Then Lazer Lemon, Galactic Grape, and Millennium Marshmallow appear on the kitchen counter in full space warrior attire. They build a transponder in Gregory's backyard to bring others to Earth, unlike the characters on TV, they are bad guys with an evil mission. For grades 2-4. 1993. The Giver RC 37689 by Lois Lowry read by June Carter 1 cassette Jonas lives in a utopia: there is no hunger, no disease, no fear; the elderly are tenderly cared for, and every child has attentive parents. The society is uniformly run. Jonas eagerly awaits the Ceremony of Twelve, when twelve-year-olds receive assignments for their lifelong professions. He is selected to be the new Receiver of Memories. As such he learns of misery and pain, but also of joy and love. For grades 6-9 and older readers. Newbery Medal. 1993. Jason and the Aliens down the Street RC 38190 by Gery Greer and Bob Ruddick read by John Polk 1 cassette Jason Harkness, who's become a door-to-door dog trainer for the summer, is hightailing it after his first charge when he runs into his neighbor, Cooper Vor. Vor is an intragalactic troubleshooter who has a talking cat, Lootna, and is in need of an assistant. Jason signs on, and they are soon jetting to a distant planet in an effort to retrieve a stolen energy crystal. For grades 2-4. 1991. Strange Attractors RC 37693 by William Sleator read by Phil Regensdorf 1 cassette Sylvan, a brilliant scientist, and his beautiful daughter Eve are the "strange attractors" whose reckless manipulation of time travel has plunged their timeline into chaos. Their search for a stable timeline brings them to our world, where they must destroy their doubles, the original Sylvan and Eve, or drag the world into chaos. Max, a teenage science student, is forced to become their ally or be destroyed himself. For junior and senior high readers. 1990. Braille Alien Secrets BR 9510 by Annette Curtis Klause 2 volumes Aboard a space freighter en route to the planet where her scientist parents are based, Robin (Puck) Goodfellow, almost thirteen and recently expelled from her proper English boarding school, befriends an alien called Hush (for short). Hush has had a cherished artifact stolen from him, and he believes it is on the ship. Puck vows to help him retrieve it and is soon enmeshed in a mystery with an abundance of suspects. For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1993. The Giver BR 9626 by Lois Lowry 1 volume Jonas lives in a utopia: there is no hunger, no disease, no fear; the elderly are tenderly cared for, and every child has attentive parents. The society is uniformly run. Jonas eagerly awaits the Ceremony of Twelve, when twelve-year-olds receive assignments for their lifelong professions. He is selected to be the new Receiver of Memories. As such he learns of misery and pain, but also of joy and love. For grades 6-9 and older readers. Newbery Medal. 1993. Short Stories Cassettes Athletic Shorts: Six Short Stories RC 38285 by Chris Crutcher read by Scott Sedar 1 cassette In these stories the athlete protagonists deal with issues like racism, homophobia, sexism, and the task of coming to terms with one's parents. Several stories revolve around characters featured in The Crazy Horse Electric Game (RC 28935), Stotan! (RC 25934), and Running Loose (RC 21102). The locales for the stories are small towns in Montana and Idaho. For junior and senior high readers. 1991. Baseball in April and Other Stories RC 37667 by Gary Soto read by Michael Pinney 1 cassette Eleven vignettes set in central California feature young Mexican Americans going about the business of growing up. Fausto, who longs for a guitar, fraudulently receives a hefty reward when he returns a stray pet to a wealthy neighbor, but he is guilt-ridden until he relinquishes the money in church. And Marie, who declines a boring family vacation, is angry that fun was had without her. For grades 5-8 and older readers. 1990. Blue Skin of the Sea: A Novel in Stories RC 38728 by Graham Salisbury read by J.P. Linton 2 cassettes Eleven short stories revealing episodes from Sonny Mendoza's youth provide glimpses of village life in Hawaii's Kailua-Kona in the 1950s and early 1960s. Themes of family and friendship reverberate throughout, as Mendoza searches for an elusive memory that holds the key to his terror of the ocean--making him and others doubt his place among the men of the sea. For grades 5-8 and older readers. 1992. Don't Give Up the Ghost: The Delacorte Book of Original Ghost Stories RC 39092 edited by David Gale read by Bob Askey 1 cassette A dozen ghost stories--ranging from horror to humor--by contemporary authors who offer a brief, first-person statement about their lives and work. Includes "Things That Go Gleep in the Night" by Walter Dean Myers, "The Face in the Rafters" by Janet Taylor Lisle, and "The Sounds of the House" by Gary Soto. For grades 3-6 and older readers. 1993. The Glass Menorah and Other Stories for Jewish Holidays RC 37140 by Maida Silverman read by Barbara Rappaport 1 cassette A collection of eight brief stories featuring the Berg family, their cat Bessie, and their neighbor Mr. Yomtov. They celebrate various Jewish holidays including Rosh Hashanah, Simchat Torah, Passover, and Hanukkah. For grades K-3. 1992. Horrible Harry and the Green Slime RC 38612 by Suzy Kline read by John Polk 1 cassette If you are in Miss Mackle's second-grade class with Horrible Harry, boredom is the least of your worries. In these four short stories, Harry leads his schoolmates in a secret mission to celebrate Charlotte's Web, teaches his classmates to make green slime (while the principal is watching), puts on a skit that warns about the dangers of smoking, and has trouble being a "secret pal." For grades 2-4. 1989. The Leaving and Other Stories RC 36673 by Budge Wilson read by Janet Kirker 1 cassette The agony and ecstasy of adolescence are captured in these nine short stories, each with a female protagonist. In the title story, a girl and her mother flee their oppressive home life on the farm for three seminal days in the city. Other stories tell of the embarrassment of a first crush and the rivalry between friends that leads to betrayal. For grades 6-9 and older readers. Canadian Young Adult Award. 1990. A Newbery Halloween: A Dozen Scary Stories by Newbery Award-winning Authors RC 39186 selected by Martin H. Greenberg and Charles G. Waugh read by David Palmer 1 cassette Since 1922 the American Library Association has awarded the John Newbery Award annually to the "most distinguished contribution" to children's literature. This collection of scary stories--just right for Halloween--is by Newbery Award-winning authors. Includes selections by Beverly Cleary, E.L. Konigsburg, and Virginia Hamilton. For grades 3-6 and older readers. 1993. Rats on the Range and Other Stories RC 39264 by James Marshall read by Laura Giannarelli 1 cassette Eight humorous stories about an unusual assortment of animals including a rat family that vacations at a dude ranch owned by rat terriers, a mouse who is the housekeeper for a tomcat, and a buzzard who may or may not leave his money to the Society for Stray Cats. Companion to Rats on the Roof and Other Stories (RC 35447). For grades 2-4 and older readers. 1993. Unreal! Eight Surprising Stories RC 36498 by Paul Jennings read by Bruce Huntey 1 cassette Eight short stories--some funny, some spooky, some a bit of both--each told by a young male. In "Lighthouse Blues," two expired lighthouse keepers chase away new helpers with weird music played in the middle of the night. And in "Wunderpants," David's miraculous underwear makes him a champion, then leaves him naked at school. For grades 4-8 and older readers. 1985. Braille The Complete Just So Stories BR 9830 by Rudyard Kipling 1 volume Kipling began writing his Just So Stories as bedtime stories for his children. They began appearing in magazines in 1897, and in 1902 the twelve standard tales were collected and published in book form. This volume includes two additional stories, "The Tabu Tale" and "Ham and the Porcupine," the very last story that Kipling wrote. For grades 3-6 and older readers. 1993. Fox Outfoxed BR 9413 by James Marshall 1 volume In these three short stories, Fox attempts to win a race dishonestly, gives away all of his comic books, and enjoys Halloween trick-or-treating with his friends. Easy reading for grades 2-4. 1992. Rats on the Range and Other Stories BR 9791 by James Marshall 1 volume Eight humorous stories about an unusual assortment of animals including a rat family that vacations at a dude ranch owned by rat terriers, a mouse who is the housekeeper for a tomcat, and a buzzard who may or may not leave his money to the Society for Stray Cats. Companion to Rats on the Roof and Other Stories (BR 8896). For grades 2-4 and older readers. 1993. Sports Cassettes The Boonsville Bombers RC 38376 by Alison Cragin Herzig read by Pam Ward 1 cassette Emma Lee Benson loves to play baseball, and she dreams of playing on her big brother's team. Michael, who's in the sixth grade, doesn't mind helping Emma with her catching and throwing, but he is not about to help her join the Bombers. Owen Zabriskie, a local hero, is in pursuit of his 3,000th hit. When Emma retrieves his record-breaking ball from the stands, she uses it to bargain for that coveted spot on her brother's team. For grades 3-6. 1991. Finding Buck McHenry RC 36658 by Alfred Slote read by John Stratton 1 cassette Jason, eleven, an avid baseball card collector and an enthusiastic Little League player, feels hurt when the coach announces that he will be cut and sent to a soon-to-be-formed expansion team. Encouragement comes from the school custodian, Mack Henry, who not only knows a lot about baseball, but tells great stories about the players in the old Negro league. Jason becomes convinced that Mr. Henry was one of those players. For grades 4-7. 1991. In Lane Three, Alex Archer RC 34992 by Tessa Duder read by June Carter 2 cassettes Swimmer Alex Archer wants to represent New Zealand in the 1960 Olympic games in Rome. She also wants to play hockey, take ballet, study music, and perform in plays. This lack of total devotion to swimming is noticed by her boyfriend, Andy, her parents, her coach, and by Alex herself. But she remains devoted to her varied interests, until Andy is killed in an accident. For junior and senior high readers. New Zealand Children's Book of the Year. 1987. Mop, Moondance, and the Nagasaki Knights RC 36433 by Walter Dean Myers read by John Polk 1 cassette T.J., his brother Moondance, and their teammate Mop, who has been happily adopted by their baseball coach, are playing in a tournament with teams from Mexico, France, and Japan, with the hope of winning a trip to Japan. T.J. is worried about his adopted mom's pregnancy, and the team is worried about their new player, Greg, and his mom, who are homeless. Sequel to Me, Mop, and the Moondance Kid (RC 31502). For grades 4-7. 1992. On the Devil's Court RC 37952 by Carl Deuker read by Phil Regensdorf 2 cassettes During the summer of Joe Faust's senior year, his father leaves his position at Harvard for one at the University of Washington. Although his father wants Joe to be a scientist, Joe is obsessed with basketball. He blows his chance to attend a public high school with a good team when he gets drunk. He is sent to a small private school instead. Joe wishes himself into a Faustian pact and becomes a superstar on a winning team. For junior and senior high readers. 1988. Taking Sides RC 37453 by Gary Soto read by Michael Pinney 1 cassette Eighth-grader Lincoln Mendoza and his mother have just moved from a San Francisco barrio to a wealthy, predominantly white suburb. He misses his Hispanic friends and his old neighborhood. And although he's made first string on the basketball team, the coach dislikes him for no apparent reason. As Mendoza prepares to play basketball against his old school, he feels torn and unsure of where he belongs. For grades 6-9. 1991. There's a Girl in My Hammerlock RC 36815 by Jerry Spinelli read by Laura Giannarelli 1 cassette Maisie, winner of last year's Outstanding Seventh Grade Female Athlete award, has decided to abandon field hockey to try out for cheerleading and a shot at getting closer to Eric Delong, her dream date. When she doesn't make the squad, but manages to get on the wrestling team--Eric is also a wrestler--her best friend dumps her, her teammates ignore her and then try to scare her off, and the home crowd cheers her opponents at matches. For grades 6-9. 1991. Braille Dogteam BR 9919 by Gary Paulsen 1 volume The author, who has twice participated in the Iditarod dogsled race across Alaska and who trains dogs for the race, writes of the night run. Under the full moon, the dogs run for the joy of running in this prose poem that describes the danger, excitement, and beauty of a night run. PRINT/BRAILLE. For preschool-grade 2. 1993. Westerns Cassettes Jim Ugly RC 37504 by Sid Fleischman read by Gregory Ricks 1 cassette 1894. Twelve-year-old Jake Bannock assumes that he is an orphan after he sees his actor-father's coffin lowered into the ground at Blowfly, Nevada. If one discounts the rumor that Sam Bannock had concealed a cache of diamonds, Jake's only inheritance is his father's part-wolf mongrel dog. His father called the dog Amigo; Jake calls him Jim Ugly. Together they set out to learn the truth about Sam's supposed demise--and the diamonds. For grades 4-7. 1992. Jo and the Bandit RC 37444 by Willo Davis Roberts read by Catherine Byers 1 cassette Texas, late 1860s. After their mother's death, twelve-year-old Jo and her younger brother are sent by stagecoach to their bachelor uncle, a storeowner and local Texas judge, who's disappointed to learn that Jo is a girl. When the stagecoach is robbed, Jo watches carefully and is able to draw pictures of the bandits. Later, however, Jo becomes fond of them, and saves the day when her uncle's plan to use her as bandit bait fails. For grades 4-7. 1992. Trail Fever: The Life of a Texas Cowboy RC 37902 by D.J. Lightfoot read by Michael Pinney 1 cassette George Washington Saunders was born in Texas in 1854, and as far as he could remember, he had always been a cowboy. Saunders could ride a horse before he could walk, and by the age of five he could herd cattle from horseback nearly as well as his three older brothers. In the early 1900s, Saunders published many books about his life as a trail driver, which the author used in writing this story. For grades 4-7. 1992.