This author explores themes of motherhood, family, and the art of living, set against the serene backdrop of North Carolina. Days are dedicated to writing, mentoring emerging authors, and connecting with nature, which provides strength and inspiration. Their work delves into the depths of human connection and the creative process. Experience in education enriches their perspective on writing for young readers.
The narrative delves into the complexities of human emotions, exploring the depth of relationships and the impact of personal struggles. Through vivid character portrayals, the author captures the nuances of love, loss, and resilience, inviting readers to reflect on their own experiences. The story weaves together moments of vulnerability and strength, creating a poignant exploration of what it means to be human in a world filled with challenges.
Nelson Malone is a normal sixth grader, but the things that happen to him are out of this world. Ghosts, rock stars, dinosaur eggs and a solo airplane flight highlight these humorous adventures in which a boy's best daydreams come true.
Aliens for camp counselors? T.V. star for a day? A talking snake for a pet? All routine for eleven-year-old Nelson Malone, whose life is filled with the kind of fantastic adventures most boys only dream of.
Set in sixteenth-century Bologna, this historical novel explores the life of Lavinia Fontana, a renowned female painter of the Italian Renaissance. Through richly crafted prose, it presents her coming-of-age journey filled with challenges, miracles, and hope. The narrative delves into universal themes of choice and conflict, resonating with readers across time as it reflects the struggle between ambition and personal desires. Hawes captures both the artistic spirit and the societal constraints of the era, making Lavinia's story both timeless and relatable.
Hitch a ride with 11-year-old Hazmat and her Dad in their 18-wheeler, Leonardo, for a feel-good road trip across America that keeps on trucking! Life on the road with Daddy is as good as gets for Hazmat. Together, they've been taking jobs and crisscrossing the US for years. Now Daddy's talking about putting down roots—somewhere Hazmat can go to a real school and make friends. Somewhere Daddy doesn't have to mail-order textbooks that talk about "nature's promise to all women." And while everything just keeps changing, sometimes in ways she can't control, Hazmat isn't ready to give up the freedom of long-distance hauling. Sure the road is filled with surprises, from plane crashes and robo trucks to runaway hitchhikers and abandoned babies, but that all makes for great stories! So Hazmat hatches a plan to make sure Daddy's dream never becomes a reality. Because there's only one place Hazmat belongs: in the navigator's seat, right next to Daddy, with the whole country flying by like a crazy quilt and each day different from the last.
Celebrated for its appeal to young readers, this book is recognized as a New York Public Library Best Book for the Teen Age. It features relatable characters navigating the challenges of adolescence, exploring themes of friendship, identity, and resilience. The engaging narrative captures the complexities of teenage life, making it a compelling read that resonates with its audience. Rich in emotion and insight, this title stands out for its ability to connect with teens and reflect their experiences authentically.
Set against the backdrop of a summer poetry class, the story follows Sarah, who must confront the consequences of her reckless actions after vandalizing a famous poet's home. As she navigates the challenges of self-expression and creativity, Sarah embarks on a journey of personal growth, learning to find her own voice amidst the expectations and pressures of her surroundings. This novel explores themes of redemption, artistic discovery, and the transformative power of words.