Myths! Lies! Secrets! Uncover the hidden truth behind the infamous Pearl Harbor attack with beloved educator/author Kate Messner. The fun mix of sidebars, illustrations, photos, and graphic panels make this perfect for fans of I Survived! and Nathan Hale's Hazardous Tales. On December 7, 1941, the Japanese launched a completely unpredictable attack on the U.S. Navy base at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. Right? Well, that's not quite the real deal. Some military experts had suggested that Pearl Harbor was a likely target. There were other warning signs, too, but nobody paid much attention. From the first wave of the Japanese bombers to the United States' internment of thousands of Japanese Americans, acclaimed author Kate Messner smashes history by exploring the little-known truths behind the story of Pearl Harbor and its aftermath. Don't miss History Smashers: The Mayflower and Women's Right to Vote
Kate Messner Books
Kate Messner crafts compelling narratives for young readers, often featuring protagonists who navigate challenging situations with resilience and curiosity. Her work is characterized by its engaging plots and thoughtful exploration of themes relevant to children's lives. Messner possesses a talent for making complex ideas accessible and exciting, encouraging readers to look at the world with a sense of wonder. Her storytelling is dynamic, bringing to life characters and adventures that resonate long after the last page.






Escape From The Twin Towers (Ranger in Time #11)
- 144 pages
- 6 hours of reading
Ranger, the time-traveling golden retriever with search-and-rescue training, travels to New York City on the morning of the 9/11 attacks.COURAGE IN THE FACE OF DANGER!Ranger has never needed his search-and-rescue training more than when he arrives at the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001. There he meets Risha Scott and her friend Max who have come to work with Risha's mother for a school project. But when the unthinkable happens and the building is evacuated, Risha is separated from her mom. Can Ranger lead Risha to safety and help reunite her family?
Only the Best
- 56 pages
- 2 hours of reading
A careful snip, a delicate fold. Fabric the colour of new petals. Skirts that flare like upside-down blossoms. A garden bursts into bloom! There is no 'good enough'. For Ann, only the best will do. Award-winning author Kate Messner, costume historian Margaret E. Powell, and fashion designer and illustrator Erin Robinson tell the powerful story of the ground-breaking Ann Lowe, who grew up in a small Alabama dress shop and became the first nationally known African American fashion designer. Sought after by millionaires and movie stars, her designs walked the red carpet and graced the wedding of Senator John F. Kennedy and Jacqueline Bouvier. At a time when the world around her thought African Americans deserved no more than second-class treatment, Ann expects no less of herself, and no less FOR herself, than the BEST.
Tracking Pythons
The Quest to Catch an Invasive Predator and Save an Ecosystem
- 64 pages
- 3 hours of reading
Exploring the impact of Burmese pythons on the South Florida ecosystem, this book delves into the challenges posed by these invasive snakes and the efforts of scientists to manage their population. Award-winning author Kate Messner offers a compelling narrative that highlights the ecological consequences and the ongoing battle to restore balance in the environment.
History Smashers: Christopher Columbus and the Taino People
- 224 pages
- 8 hours of reading
Myths! Lies! Secrets! Uncover the hidden truth about Christopher Columbus, and learn all about the Taino people. Perfect for fans of the I Survived books and Nathan Hale's Hazardous Tales. In 1492, Christopher Columbus sailed across the ocean and discovered America. Right? WRONG! Columbus never actually set foot in what is now the United States. His voyages took him to islands in the Caribbean and along the coast of South America. The truth is, when Columbus first arrived, Indigenous peoples, including the Taino, had been living there for thousands of years, raising their families, running their societies, and trading with their neighbors. He didn’t “discover” the lands at all! And his name? Not even really Christopher Columbus! Cowritten by bestselling author Kate Messner and our country’s premier Taino scholar, this fascinating addition to the series is the one that teachers have been asking for and that kids need to read. Discover the nonfiction series that demolishes everything you thought you knew about history. Don’t miss History Smashers: The Mayflower, Women's Right to Vote, and Pearl Harbor.
Marty McGuire Digs Worms!
- 176 pages
- 7 hours of reading
In a spirited effort to contribute to her class's Save the Earth Project, third grader Marty McGuire, with guidance from her Grandma Barb, embarks on a creative mission to construct a worm habitat in the school cafeteria. This engaging story highlights themes of environmental awareness and the importance of family support in a young girl's adventurous journey.
History Smashers: The Mayflower
- 224 pages
- 8 hours of reading
Myths! Lies! Secrets! Smash the stories behind famous moments in history and expose the hidden truth. Perfect for fans of I Survived and Nathan Hale's Hazardous Tales.In 1620, the Pilgrims landed at Plymouth Rock and made friends with Wampanoag people who gave them corn. RIGHT?WRONG! It was months before the Pilgrims met any Wampanoag people, and nobody gave anybody corn that day.Did you know that the pilgrims didn't go straight from England to Plymouth? No, they made a stop along the way--and almost stayed forever! Did you know there was a second ship, called the Speedwell, that was too leaky to make the trip? No joke. And just wait until you learn the truth about Plymouth Rock.Through illustrations, graphic panels, photographs, sidebars, and more, acclaimed author Kate Messner smashes history by exploring the little-known details behind the legends of the Mayflower and the first Thanksgiving."Kate Messner serves up fun, fast history for kids who want the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. Absolutely smashing!" --Candace Fleming, award-winning authorDon't miss History Women's Right to Vote !
Tree of Wonder
- 36 pages
- 2 hours of reading
Published in association with the Natural Resources Defense Council (NDRC).
Ranger in Time. Disaster on the Titanic
- 144 pages
- 6 hours of reading
In his ninth adventure, Ranger, the time-traveling golden retriever with search-and-rescue training, finds himself in 1912...on board the RMS "Titanic!" Illustrations.
Marty McGuire
- 144 pages
- 6 hours of reading
Marty McGuire, a third grader with a passion for catching frogs, finds herself unexpectedly cast as the princess in her class play. Confident that this is a mistake, she embraces the challenge with creativity and improvisation. Instead of using a stuffed frog, she decides a live one would enhance the performance, leading to a unique and memorable show. Through this journey, Marty discovers her own version of happily ever after, showcasing her individuality and talent.
History Smashers: Earth Day and the Environment
- 240 pages
- 9 hours of reading
Delve into the origins of Earth Day and uncover the truth behind major US climate disasters and their resolutions. This installment of the award-winning History Smashers series exposes environmental myths and recycling scams, providing readers with a factual perspective on significant ecological issues. It's an engaging exploration of how historical events shape our understanding of environmental challenges today.
History Smashers: Women's Right to Vote
- 224 pages
- 8 hours of reading
Myths! Lies! Secrets! Smash the stories behind famous moments in history and expose the hidden truth. Perfect for fans of I Survived and Nathan Hale's Hazardous Tales. In 1920, Susan B. Anthony passed a law that gave voting rights to women in the United States. RIGHT? WRONG! Susan B. Anthony wasn't even alive when the Nineteenth Amendment was ratified. Plus, it takes a lot more than one person to amend the constitution. The truth is, it took millions of women to get that amendment into law. They marched! They picketed! They even went to jail. But in the end, it all came down to a letter from a state representative's mom. No joke. Through illustrations, graphic panels, photographs, sidebars, and more, acclaimed author Kate Messner smashes history by exploring the little-known details behind the fight for women's suffrage. Don't miss History Smashers: The Mayflower!
The Next President
- 48 pages
- 2 hours of reading
Who will be the NEXT president? Could it be you? When George Washington became the first president of the United States, there were nine future presidents already alive in America, doing things like practicing law or studying medicine. When JFK became the thirty-fifth president, there were 10 future presidents already alive in America, doing things like hosting TV shows and learning the saxophone. And right now—today!—there are at least 10 future presidents alive in America. They could be playing basketball, like Barack Obama, or helping in the garden, like Dwight D. Eisenhower. They could be solving math problems or reading books. They could be making art—or already making change. A breezy, kid-friendly survey of American history and American presidents -- Great for teachers, librarians, and other educators -- Kate Messner's nonfiction picture books have been lauded by critics and received a variety of awards. For young readers and students who loved The New Big Book of Presidents, Lincoln and Kennedy: A Pair to Compare, and Kid Presidents: True Tales of Childhood from America's Presidents. A helpful addition to curriculums of 5th- to 8th-grade students studying U.S. History and civics and the federal government. -- Provided by publisher
History Smashers: The Underground Railroad
- 224 pages
- 8 hours of reading
Myths! Lies! Secrets! Uncover the hidden truth about the Underground Railroad and Black Americans' struggle for freedom. Perfect for fans of I Survived! and Nathan Hale's Hazardous Tales. Before the Civil War, there was a crack team of abolitionists who used quilts and signal lanterns to guide enslaved people to freedom. RIGHT? WRONG! The truth is, the Underground Railroad wasn't very organized, and most freedom seekers were on their own. With a mix of sidebars, illustrations, photos, and graphic panels, acclaimed author Kate Messner and coauthor and Brown Bookshelf contributor Gwendolyn Hooks deliver the whole truth about the Underground Railroad. Discover the nonfiction series that smashes everything you thought you knew about history!
Over and Under the Rainforest
- 48 pages
- 2 hours of reading
The acclaimed Over and Under series continues with the hidden wonders and fascinating layers of the vibrant Costa Rican rainforest!
History Smashers: Salem Witch Trials
- 224 pages
- 8 hours of reading
Explore the truth behind the Salem witch trials as the book debunks prevalent myths and reveals the historical realities of this infamous event. Delving into the social, political, and cultural factors that fueled the hysteria, it offers a nuanced perspective on the people involved and the consequences of mass panic. This examination not only sheds light on the trials but also reflects on broader themes of fear, injustice, and the human tendency to scapegoat.
Exploring the lives of Galápagos tortoises, this book delves into their endangered status and the critical conservation efforts underway. It highlights the unique challenges these iconic creatures face and showcases the dedication of scientists striving to protect their habitat and ensure their survival. Through engaging narratives and insightful research, readers gain a deeper understanding of the importance of preserving this remarkable species and the ecosystems they inhabit.
How to Write a Story
- 36 pages
- 2 hours of reading
Chronicles the process of becoming a writer, from choosing an idea, creating a problem for your character to resolve, and--finally--coming to the end.--Dust jacket.
History Smashers: The Titanic
- 224 pages
- 8 hours of reading
Myths! Lies! Secrets! Uncover the hidden truth behind the sinking of the Titanic with beloved educator/author Kate Messner. The fun mix of sidebars, illustrations, photos, and graphic panels make this perfect for fans of I Survived! and Nathan Hale's Hazardous Tales. On April 15, 1912 an "unsinkable" ship called the Titanic unexpectedly hit an iceberg and sank to the bottom of the North Atlantic. Right? Wrong! Nobody was really talking about the Titanic being unsinkable until after it sank. The truth is, four different ships wired the Titanic to report icebergs and field ice in the area. But the Titanic never slowed down. In fact, when the Californian warned that it was trapped in ice, the Titanic's wireless operator was so busy sending outgoing messages that he replied, "Shut up!" No joke. Discover the nonfiction series that demolishes everything you thought you knew about history. Don't miss History Smashers: The Mayflower, Women's Right to Vote, and Pearl Harbor.
Over and Under the Pond
- 48 pages
- 2 hours of reading
A lyrical and informative book about the rich, interconnected ecosystem of a mountain pond.
History Smashers: Plagues and Pandemics
- 224 pages
- 8 hours of reading
Myths! Lies! Secrets! Uncover the hidden truth about history's pandemics, from the Black Death to COVID-19. Perfect for fans of I Survived! and Nathan Hale's Hazardous Tales. During the Black Death in the 14th century, plague doctors wore creepy beaked masks filled with herbs. RIGHT? WRONG! Those masks were from a plague outbreak centuries later--and most doctors never wore anything like that at all! With a mix of sidebars, illustrations, photos, and graphic panels, acclaimed author Kate Messner delivers the whole truth about diseases like the bubonic plague, cholera, smallpox, tuberculosis, polio, influenza, and COVID-19. Discover the nonfiction series that smashes everything you thought you knew about history! Don't miss History Smashers: The Mayflower, Women's Right to Vote, Pearl Harbor, Titanic, and American Revolution.
Over and Under the Canyon
- 56 pages
- 2 hours of reading
In this latest book in the acclaimed Over and Under series, a spectacular hike reveals the hidden wonders, rich colors, and layers of wildlife living within a thriving desert slot-canyon!
Chirp
- 240 pages
- 9 hours of reading
"[A] deftly layered mystery about family, friendship, and the struggle to speak up." - Laurie Halse Anderson, bestselling author of Speak and Shout From acclaimed author Kate Messner comes the powerful story of a young girl with the courage to make her voice heard, set against the backdrop of a summertime mystery. When Mia moves to Vermont the summer after seventh grade, she's recovering from the broken arm she got falling off a balance beam. And packed away in the moving boxes under her clothes and gymnastics trophies is a secret she'd rather forget. Mia's change in scenery brings day camp, new friends, and time with her beloved grandmother. But Gram is convinced someone is trying to destroy her cricket farm. Is it sabotage or is Gram's thinking impaired from the stroke she suffered months ago? Mia and her friends set out to investigate, but can they uncover the truth in time to save Gram's farm? And will that discovery empower Mia to confront the secret she's been hiding--and find the courage she never knew she had? In a compelling story rich with friendship, science, and summer fun, a girl finds her voice while navigating the joys and challenges of growing up.
Dr. Fauci
- 48 pages
- 2 hours of reading
The definitive picture book biography of Dr. Anthony Fauci, the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases and one of the most crucial figures in the COVID-19 pandemic. Before he was Dr. Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Anthony Fauci was a curious boy in Brooklyn, delivering prescriptions from his father’s pharmacy on his blue Schwinn bicycle. His father and immigrant grandfather taught Anthony to ask questions, consider all the data, and never give up—and Anthony’s ability to stay curious and to communicate with people would serve him his entire life. This engaging narrative, which draws from interviews the author did with Dr. Fauci himself, follows Anthony from his Brooklyn beginnings through medical school and his challenging role working with seven US presidents to tackle some of the biggest public health challenges of the past fifty years, including the COVID-19 pandemic. Extensive backmatter rounds out Dr. Fauci’s story with a timeline, recommended reading, a full spread of facts about vaccines and how they work, and Dr. Fauci’s own tips for future scientists.
Over and Under the Waves
- 56 pages
- 2 hours of reading
"Discover the magical depths of the kelp forest, and all the fascinating creatures living just a paddle's length away-both over and under the waves"--
Up in the Garden and Down in the Dirt
- 56 pages
- 2 hours of reading
Explore the fascinating lives hidden in a garden.
The Exact Location of Home
- 272 pages
- 10 hours of reading
Believing his long-absent father is missing and leaving clues behind through geocaching, Zig, thirteen, relies on his love of electronics, a garage sale GPS unit, and his best friend, Gianna, to search for answers
Set against the backdrop of the Pearl Harbor attack, a time-traveling Golden retriever named Ranger embarks on a heroic mission. He rescues Ben Hansen, a sailor injured in the explosion of the USS Arizona, while also aiding a Japanese-American brother and sister searching for their father amidst the turmoil. This thrilling adventure combines elements of history, bravery, and the bond of friendship in a time of crisis.
Over and under the Snow
- 44 pages
- 2 hours of reading
Over the snow, the world is hushed and white. But under the snow lies a secret world of squirrels and snow hares, bears and bullfrogs, and many other animals making their winter home under the snow. This beloved nonfiction picture book exploring the subnivean zone reveals the tunnels and caves formed beneath the snow but over the ground, where many kinds of animals live through the winter, safe and warm, awake and busy, but hidden beneath the snow.
Capture the Flag
- 240 pages
- 9 hours of reading
When the original Star Spangled Banner is stolen, Anne, Jose, and Henry, all descendants of the Silver Jaguar Society, pursue suspects through baggage handling tunnels while stranded at a Washington, D.C., airport during a snowstorm.
History Smashers: The American Revolution
- 224 pages
- 8 hours of reading
Myths! Lies! Secrets! Uncover the hidden truth behind the Revolutionary War with beloved educator/author Kate Messner. The fun mix of sidebars, illustrations, photos, and graphic panels make this perfect for fans of I Survived! and Nathan Hale's Hazardous Tales. On April 18, 1775, Paul Revere rode through Lexington and Concord, Massachusetts, shouting, "The British are coming!" to start the American Revolution.RIGHT? WRONG! Paul Revere made it to Lexington, but before he could complete his mission, he was captured! The truth is, dozens of Patriots rode around warning people about the Redcoats' plans that night. It was actually a man named Samuel Prescott who succeeded, alerting townspeople in Lexington and then moving on to Concord. But the Revolutionary War didn't officially start for more than a year after Prescott's ride. No joke. Discover the nonfiction series that smashes everything you thought you knew about history. Don't miss History Smashers: The Mayflower, Women's Right to Vote, Pearl Harbor, and Titanic.
Fergus and Zeke and the 100th Day of School
- 56 pages
- 2 hours of reading
Fergus and Zeke face a challenge as they try to participate in their classroom's celebration of the one hundredth day of school. Despite their enthusiasm, they struggle with the tasks set by the students, from running distances to completing writing projects. Their attempts lead to humorous mishaps, making it difficult to find a suitable way to contribute. As they navigate these obstacles, the mice must discover a creative solution that allows them to join in the fun and celebrate alongside their classmates.
Fergus and Zeke and the Great Farm Field Trip
- 56 pages
- 2 hours of reading
Two adventurous classroom mice embark on a quest to return to their bus, facing the possibility of being stranded on a farm. Filled with humor and charm, this story is perfect for young readers who love farm life.
The Scariest Kitten in the World
- 40 pages
- 2 hours of reading
From New York Times bestselling author Kate Messner comes a hilarious picture book in the vein of The Monster at the End of This Book about a not-so-scary kitten and a not-too-terrifying haunted house.
Sloth Wasn't Sleepy
- 32 pages
- 2 hours of reading
For any child having trouble getting to sleep, the most lovable animal in the rain forest is here to help.
Eye of the Storm
- 304 pages
- 11 hours of reading
Jaden's summer visit with her meteorologist father fills her with appreciation and fear as she discovers that living at her father's planned community Placid Meadows, is anything but placid
Solve This! Forensics
Super Science and Curious Capers for the Daring Detective in You
- 160 pages
- 6 hours of reading
Combining elements of forensic investigation with the thrill of adventure, this book invites readers to analyze evidence and evaluate suspects. It offers an interactive experience, challenging crime-solving skills while immersing them in a world reminiscent of a C.S.I. episode set against a backdrop of National Geographic's exploration.





