Jean Van Leeuwen Books

Set in the wilderness, two young brothers, Daniel and Will, face the challenge of surviving a harsh winter alone after their father goes east to retrieve the rest of the family. With limited supplies, they must rely on their ingenuity and resourcefulness while grappling with the uncertainty of their father's return. The story, inspired by a true incident, captures the themes of resilience and bravery in the face of adversity, immersing readers in the struggles of pioneer life.

When nothing she does seems to please her mother, Weezie decides to find her missing father.

In a whimsical twist on heist stories, three adventurous mice grow weary of their mundane movie experiences and hatch a plan to rob a cheese shop. Their escapade promises humor and clever antics as they navigate the challenges of their daring mission. With a unique blend of charm and mischief, the tale explores themes of camaraderie and the pursuit of excitement, showcasing how even the smallest characters can dream big and take bold risks.

Set against the backdrop of Westward Expansion, this moving tale follows a pioneer family as they navigate the challenges and triumphs of forging a new life in the untamed frontier. Award-winning author Jean Van Leeuwen brings to life the struggles, resilience, and hopes of the characters, capturing the spirit of adventure and the bonds of family in a transformative era of American history. Through their journey, themes of perseverance and the quest for a better future are vividly explored.

With only a guide book to show them the way, the Todd family sets out from their Arkansas home on a two thousand mile trek to claim unchartered Oregon Territory. Crossing rough terrain and encountering hostile people, the Todds show their true pioneering spirit. But as winter draws near, will the Todds have the strength to complete their journey? And if they make it, will Oregon fulfill their dreams?“This is a convincing picture of a pioneer journey that does a good job of showing the tremendous sacrifices people made to follow their dream of a better life.” –School Library Journal

On a sweltering summer day, Amanda pig struggles to stay cool amidst the heat. With her knees, nose, and even hair ribbons feeling the burn, she embarks on a humorous quest to beat the heat. The story unfolds across four entertaining chapters, featuring charming illustrations that enhance Amanda's delightful adventures and her determination to find relief from the muggy weather. Readers will enjoy giggling at her antics as she navigates the challenges of a hot day.