Books for Readers 8-12

Inspirational anecdotes from exceptional Americans. Ten leadership lessons are taught here through the dramatic true stories of American men and women in World War II. From Dwight D. Eisenhower and Chester Nimitz to everyday Americans who rose to leadership during the world's greatest war, these stories reflect the core values of this remarkable generation. With these inspiring accounts, today's managers and leaders will learn essential leadership tactics, such as having a vision, being a self-starter, taking care of your people, and leading by example.

Not so fast Rudolph-Willy guides Santa's sleigh in Texas! When Santa visits Texas, he encounters dense fog and needs a local's help to deliver gifts. Willy, a longhorn longing to fly with Santa, jumps at the opportunity to help. With the help of glowing blue paint, his horns light the way. Follow Willy and Santa on their journey to every house in the Lone Star State as they fly over Texas landmarks to deliver presents and a Texas-sized portion of cheer.

You're not gonna taste this little beignet! In this confectionary folktale adaptation, a lonely baker gets his wish when he sprinkles magic sugar on a beignet and it comes to life. The little beignet boy runs away but is in danger of being eaten by the hungry people of New Orleans. He leads a wild chase through the French Quarter, visiting famous sights along the way. This delightful book, with wacky illustrations and a sassy refrain, will run straight into readers' hearts.

Plant a prize-winning seed and help it grow! Join Gavin as he attempts to win first place at the local fair by growing the largest gourd in the world! Children will learn how to plant, fertilize, and pollinate a seed just as Gavin does. With the help of his friends and neighbors, Gavin becomes an expert on pumpkins. Through advice and hands-on experience, he learns how to care for his garden. Full of helpful facts and easy tips, this is an educational and amusing story that emphasizes the skill involved in gardening. A perfect companion for the classroom, this book teaches children about the science of cultivation, the commitment required to care for a living plant, and how to make homemade pumpkin pie.

Georg� Porg� ate crab cakes,
saw one move, cried, Heaven's sakes!
When he found out the crab still lived,
His plate, he dropped-his face, he hid.

Merriment and madness reign as king and queen of Carnival in this playful romp around the Crescent City. Mother Goose takes on Metairie, Mid City, the Mississippi, and more in these delightful twists on classic poems. Rhyme down on the bayou with the Mischievous Nutria and three shrimp in a tub. Cheerful illustrations fill this sweet and silly collection, perfect for Who Dats of all ages.

When Alfons the alligator steals somebody's hat, then it's time for a game of Alligator-Keep-Away.

On Monday, there are red beans to eat, and on Tuesday, po'boys and on it goes throughout the week, each day bringing a unique and tasty Louisiana dish to the table. Based on a song by New Orleans singer/songwriter Johnette Downing, Today Is Monday in Louisiana offers the best of Cajun, Creole, African, and French foods.

Where in the world can children hear jazz, gospel, and blues and eat shrimp po� boys and strawberry snowballs? Jazz Fest in New Orleans!