Katherine Paterson

Moving to a new home in Vermont is hard enough, but Josh has a bigger problem right next door. An older neighborhood boy has decided to make Josh his main target, leaving him feeling isolated and helpless in a strange new place. Desperate for a friend, Josh turns to his loyal dog for comfort. Then the impossible happens. Josh realizes he can understand his dog and the other dogs in the neighborhood when they communicate with each other. This incredible secret reveals that the human world is not the only one dealing with intimidation. His own dog is facing a fierce and terrifying bully in the local canine community. You will find yourself rooting for both boy and dog as they navigate their fears side by side. This gripping story explores the courage it takes to stand up for yourself and the powerful bond between humans and their pets. You will discover how finding your voice sometimes means listening to the quietest companions around you.

The natural world is full of brilliant wonders, from the warmth of the sun to the quiet glow of the moon. In this stunning tribute to the earth, the classic prayer of Saint Francis of Assisi is brought to life for a new generation. You will marvel at the breathtaking cut-paper illustrations that capture the beauty of the stars, the power of the wind, and the delicate grace of flowing water. Every page invites you to slow down and appreciate the incredible gifts hidden in the forests, mountains, and oceans around you. This peaceful and poetic journey celebrates the deep connection between all living things. It is a perfect story to help you reflect on the environment, encouraging a sense of gratitude and wonder for the magnificent universe we share.

The holiday season is right around the corner, and young Marvin has a very big goal. He wants to give his parents the most amazing, spectacular Christmas gift they have ever received. More importantly, he wants to create something so special that it will literally last forever. As Marvin puts his imagination to work, he quickly realizes that building an everlasting present is much harder than it sounds. You will follow along with his charming and heartfelt efforts to craft the perfect surprise, learning that sometimes the best ideas do not go exactly according to plan. This warm and funny story perfectly captures the innocent excitement of holiday giving. You will relate to Marvin's determination and discover that the most meaningful gifts often have nothing to do with being perfect, but everything to do with the love you put into making them.

Rosie is unquestionably the meanest, most stubborn cow in the entire dairy herd. She kicks, she causes trouble, and she makes life difficult for everyone on the farm. But to five-year-old Marvin, she is the absolute best friend he has ever had in the world. When Marvin's family faces massive changes and is forced to move to a completely new dairy farm, they make the tough decision to sell Rosie. Marvin is completely heartbroken and refuses to let go of his favorite animal. To cope with his grief, he relies on a powerful imagination to keep Rosie close by his side. You will understand the deep feelings of transition and loss as Marvin adjusts to his new surroundings. This gentle, touching story perfectly explores how kids handle big emotional changes, showing you that the memories of those you love will always travel with you, no matter where you go.

When her mother falls terribly ill, young Celia knows she is the only one who can help. Armed with immense courage and accompanied by her unusually grumpy dog, Brumble, she sets off on a perilous journey to find a legendary, healing water. The path ahead is dark and twisted, forcing the brave pair to venture far from the safety of their home. Along the way, you will meet a cast of strange, intimidating characters who have lived their entire lives without ever experiencing a single act of kindness or compassion. You will be captivated by Celia's fearless spirit as she confronts these threatening obstacles. Instead of fighting with swords or magic, she uses empathy and understanding to break through their hardened hearts. It is a beautiful, adventurous tale that shows you how genuine kindness can be the most powerful and transformative magic of all.

The kingdom's supreme ruler has passed away, leaving his crown to a remarkably arrogant and selfish young prince. But there is a catch. Before he can officially take the throne and rule the land, the prince must fulfill his father's final decree: he must find and marry a woman who is his absolute equal in intelligence, wealth, and beauty. Believing no one could possibly match his own perfection, the prince sets out on an impossible quest. However, his journey takes an unexpected turn when he encounters a clever and resourceful young woman who completely defies his expectations. You will be charmed by this witty and enchanting fairy tale that turns classic royal tropes completely upside down. You will discover that true worth is not measured by gold or a reflection in a mirror, as the proud prince ultimately meets someone who is not just his equal, but far better than he could have ever imagined.

King Balak is furious and deeply afraid of the Israelites camping near his land. To protect his kingdom, he summons the famous soothsayer Balaam to place a powerful curse on them. Balaam sets off on his journey, riding his loyal and faithful donkey, completely unaware that an angel has been sent to block his path. Balaam cannot see the armed angel standing in the road, but his donkey certainly can. Every time the brave animal stops or turns aside to save her master's life, an angry Balaam strikes her. Finally, a miracle happens, and the donkey is given the power to speak. She challenges Balaam's harsh treatment, opening his eyes to the hidden divine messenger. This fascinating retelling of a classic biblical story shows that wisdom and vision can come from the most unexpected creatures.

A cruel and greedy lord demands everything beautiful for himself. When he spots a magnificent mandarin drake with brightly colored feathers, he captures the bird and locks it away in a cage. But the beautiful drake is completely miserable without his mate, refusing to eat or sing in his lonely prison. Seeing the bird's deep sorrow, a kindhearted kitchen maid and a gentle samurai take pity on the drake. They know the lord will be furious, but they bravely risk their own lives and freedom to release the bird so he can return to his mate. When the lord discovers their betrayal, he sentences the couple to a terrible punishment. Just when all hope seems lost, two mysterious strangers arrive to help the brave couple, proving that acts of true compassion are always rewarded.