Irene Latham is an author whose work bridges the realms of poetry and prose. Her writings are celebrated for their depth and engaging style, drawing readers into meticulously crafted worlds. Latham frequently explores themes of family, childhood, and personal growth within her narratives. Her distinctive literary approach and her talent for capturing the essence of human experience establish her as a significant voice in contemporary literature.
Celebrating the boundless nature of imagination, this poetry collection showcases the works of thirty-one diverse poets. Each piece explores the theme of possibilities, inviting readers to consider the transformative power of "if." Through a variety of voices and styles, the collection encourages reflection on dreams, aspirations, and the beauty of what could be, making it an inspiring read for poetry lovers.
The Curious Objects on the Lunar Surface
Exploring the artifacts left on the lunar surface since 1969, this book blends history and poetry, showcasing unique objects like a commemorative patch and golf balls frozen in time. It evokes a range of emotions, from humor to poignancy, while offering breathtaking graphite illustrations. The narrative serves as a tribute to humanity's quest for knowledge and our understanding of our place in the universe, presenting a moving exhibit of our endeavors beyond Earth.
"Six eighth graders outside Washington, DC, navigate through conflict and division focused on their school district's Native American mascot"--Provided by publisher
Inspired by "The Twelve Days of Christmas," this picture book illustrates the many different forms that kindness can take, from veteran picture book author Irene Latham. On the first day of kindness, I will give to you a hug that’s warm and true. There are many ways to be kind. Follow one girl as she expresses gratitude through kind deeds all her own—a smile or encouraging word or even shared snacks—and discovers one act of kindness inspires another. In this heartwarming lyrical text, twelve acts of everyday kindness are set to the tune of “The Twelve Days of Christmas.” Along with vibrant and warm illustrations, this joyous read-aloud celebrates how small acts of kindness can be practiced at any age.
"Upbeat rhyming verse and colorful illustrations of a diverse group of students invite readers to "be a bridge" by taking actions that foster inclusivity, respect, and connection"--
Chronicling the story of the last Africans brought illegally to America in 1860, African Town is a powerful and stunning novel-in-verse. In 1860, long after the United States outlawed the importation of enslaved laborers, 110 men, women and children from Benin and Nigeria were captured and brought to Mobile, Alabama aboard a ship called Clotilda. Their journey includes the savage Middle Passage and being hidden in the swamplands along the Alabama River before being secretly parceled out to various plantations, where they made desperate attempts to maintain both their culture and also fit into the place of captivity to which they'd been delivered. At the end of the Civil War, the survivors created a community for themselves they called African Town, which still exists to this day. Told in 14 distinct voices, including that of the ship that brought them to the American shores and the founder of African Town, this powerfully affecting historical novel-in-verse recreates a pivotal moment in US and world history, the impacts of which we still feel today.
In this gorgeously depicted and timeless story of friendship and perseverance, two snails journey to the ark.When Esther woke she knew something curious was happening—a storm was in the air. Not just any storm but the biggest storm the world had ever seen. In lyrical and rhythmic text, with a common refrain of hurry hurry , Esther makes her way to the ark, encountering other animals along the way. Joys, troubles, and journeys are best shared, and so Esther finds her friend Solomon and together—with the help of a small miracle—they find a way to safety.This heartwarming picture book celebrates the importance of community and helping others, featuring two brave snails who embark on the journey of a lifetime.
Klynt's days on her Papa's farm are all the same, even during wartime. Until the robodog, that is. A dystopic but heartwarming novel-in-verse perfect for fans of Pax by Sara Pennypacker. In a future United States, civil war is devastating a country on its last legs. On one side: the Patriots. On the other: President Vex's corrupt government. In the middle: everybody else, just trying to survive. The war is going from bad to worse, but out in the sparsely populated Worselands, twelve-year-old Klynt Tovis doesn't see much of it. Instead, Klynt spends most of her long summer days bored, or restoring artifacts in her Museum of Fond Memories. Real pet dogs are a thing of the past: after they were found to be carriers of a sickness the government ordered them all killed. But one day an incredible antique shows up at the farm: a D-39 robodog, "Real as a dog can be!" Klynt is overjoyed, but the good luck doesn't last. When the war makes its way into the empty Worselands, she and D-39 find themselves thrown into an epic journey for survival and hope. Through the twists and turns of this riveting read, Irene Latham deftly shows how kindness can appear in unexpected places during uncertain times.
The hope-filled true story of the man who refused to leave Syria's cats behind
Wild Peace by Irene Latham and Il Sung Na is a lush, soothing mindfulness picture book about finding solace in the natural world.With lyrical text and whimsical art, Wild Peace follows a girl whose imagination helps her escape her frenzied home and discover the joys of nature. After enjoying the serenity of the forest, she is finally ready to return to her family, where peace welcomes all that is wild, and kisses the forehead of every child.When the world fills with noise and fury,and the days pass, all rush and scurry,it's time to step into the forest . . .