Best Selling Books by Carl Sommer

This heartwarming story follows a proud, wealthy man who sends his children, James and Anna, to live with a humble farmer’s family, hoping they will learn to appreciate their luxurious life. What the children discover instead is a profound lesson about true wealth, as they experience the joy, peace, and simplicity of the farmer’s life. Surrounded by love, faith, and nature, they realize that material riches pale in comparison to the rich, fulfilling life that comes from serving God and cherishing the simple pleasures of life. This powerful tale will inspire readers to reflect on what truly brings happiness and the value of faith and family over possessions.

Bob and Dot return and ride their bikes at the boat dock with their parents. Detailed, rich illustrations depict Bob and Dot using safety practices such as life jackets and locks for their bikes, and having fun learning about fish, feeding seagulls, and taking an exciting speedboat ride. Similar sounding words and longer sentences that build on previous stories in the Sommer advanced series create a fun-filled learning experience for the early reader and support the importance of exercise for a healthy lifestyle.

Children join Ben and Nell on their adventures to visit their grandparents, a trip which many children have taken. Bell, their flamboyant and arrogant pet monkey, intrigues young readers when he misbehaves on the plane and with the ponies on the farm. The family’s adventures are built on the phonic sounds of similar words, slightly longer sentences, and hilarious dialogue, creating an enjoyable book for the advanced early reader.

The world’s oceans are home to amazing animals that wear gorgeous colors, as well as animals that are almost transparent or the color of the sand on the bottom of the ocean. This dazzling book from Our Amazing World takes youngsters on an enchanting underwater trip through exquisite close-up photographs with complementary fun facts. The book will fascinate children as they learn to read.

Life on a ranch with cowboys and cowgirls, cattle and horses, is intriguing to all of us. Colorful photos in majestic ranch settings provide an inside look at life on a working ranch. Our Amazing World introduces nonfiction concepts to young children through the variety of ranch activities presenting great discussion points, which children love.

Children return to this beautiful book repeatedly to learn more about the mammoth beauties of the sea. Did you know an octopus can change its color and the texture of its skin or that sunfish lay millions of eggs? Advanced early readers recognize words they know in this exceptional nonfiction book from Our Amazing World Series, Advanced, and are motivated to add new words to their vocabulary, such as plankton and tongue, as well as explore combinations from words they know like sun and fish (sunfish) and blue and fin (bluefin).

In this excellent introduction to the tantalizing world of history, young children become acquainted with old and new farming techniques. Our Amazing World inspires critical thinking as children begin to explore how the world changes. Teaching children the importance of farming for feeding the world is an integral part of a good education, and the clear photos will have them bursting with curiosity.

Hop into the fascinating world of kangaroos with Kangaroos, an engaging book that explores the lives of these unique marsupials. From gray kangaroos grazing on grass to red kangaroos enjoying water, this book highlights their incredible adaptability and family-oriented lifestyle. Discover how female kangaroos carry their joeys in pouches, providing safety and nourishment until they are ready to explore the world. Learn about kangaroo mobs, social groups led by strong males who battle for dominance using their powerful legs and balancing tails. Marvel at their ability to jump great distances, swim gracefully, and, in some cases, climb trees! With twice as many kangaroos as people in Australia, these animals are not only a symbol of the land but an integral part of its ecosystem. Packed with fun facts and vivid descriptions, Kangaroos is perfect for anyone curious about these remarkable creatures.

When Ted and Jan take a trip to the farm, their pet dog, Jed, goes with them. Havoc ensues, as Jed tosses his food around in the car and chases the chickens at the farm. Detailed, brightly colored illustrations lead new readers through the lively story with context clues. Similar beginning and ending word sounds that teach word recognition, and a few longer sentences begin to build children’s reading skills. Target Reader 7 is part of Phonics Adventure's systematic, leveled reading program.

In this story, Super Math visits Mr. Smith's classroom to teach students how to subtract two-digit numbers up to 100. He guides the class through various subtraction problems using different tools like rods, units, cylinders, and dominoes, emphasizing the importance of understanding place value. Super Math encourages the students to practice consistently to improve their math skills. The class also plays "Math Bingo," where students use cards to perform addition and subtraction. Super Math concludes with a lesson on the value of working before playing, sharing a story about two families and the consequences of procrastination.

Bob and Dot’s family return in this adventure of seeing boats. Bob gets his wish to ride his bike on the clear path, and again gets another wish when he takes an exciting motorboat ride. Detailed, colorful pictures illustrate the children using safety practices such as life jackets and locks for their bikes. Words and sentences that build on previous stories in the motivational phonics literature program create a fun-filled learning experience for the early reader. Target Reader 16 is part of Phonics Adventure's systematic, leveled reading program.

A pleasant family fishing trip at the lake incorporates words with basic phonic sounds and introduces a word that begins with the rarely seen letter Q. Ken and his sister, Jen, both catch large redfish and Dad happily scoops them up with a large net. Similar phonic word sounds promote word recognition, and slightly longer sentences build reading skills in the advanced reader.

In this story, Super Math teaches the class how science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) are used in everyday life to create products like cars, buildings, and robots. He explains how engineers and mechanics rely on math for design, safety, and production, from electrical systems to robotics and airplanes. Super Math encourages students to stay teachable and persevere in learning math for future success. He shares the motivational story The Eagle and the Chickens, reminding them to ignore discouragement and aim high, just like the eagle who learned to fly.

Step into the wild with Big Cats, a fascinating journey into the lives of nature’s most powerful and graceful hunters. From tigers prowling for prey to lions bonding with their pride, this book explores the behaviors, habitats, and survival skills of these majestic creatures. Discover how jaguars climb trees to rest or avoid danger, leopards stealthily track their prey, and snow leopards thrive in the rugged high mountains. Learn how all big cats share a carnivorous diet, often hunting weak or sick animals, which helps maintain balance in their ecosystems. Through vivid descriptions and engaging facts, Big Cats showcases the strength, intelligence, and beauty of these incredible predators. Perfect for animal lovers of all ages, this book reveals the fascinating world of big cats and their vital role in nature.

In this warm tale of friends on a baseball team, Nick and Jill arrive for ball practice wearing their new caps only to have their friends scoff at them. When they demonstrate their new skill at catching the ball using their caps, the team rushes off to buy caps of their own. Returning to play ball, they discover a tree loaded with nuts and stop to gather them, discovering baseball caps are also perfect for holding nuts. This adorable story builds on word sound mastery and reading skills. Target Reader 10 is part of Phonics Adventure's systematic, leveled reading program.

In a thought-provoking comparison of old and new farming techniques, Our Amazing World Series, Advanced, brings history and young children together in a beautiful book. Learning the history of the world around them is an important part of a child’s education and inspires critical thinking. The family-friendly photos arouse their curiosity to read the narrative and discover the fun facts appended to each.

A warmhearted adventure, this family-oriented book includes life skills of respecting and helping others. An enjoyable early reader which promotes successful word recognition and skills in reading longer sentences. Picturesque woodland scenes animate the story and bring laughs when the cub helps itself to the family’s food without an invitation. Companion Reader 18 is part of Phonics Adventure's systematic, leveled reading program.

El molinero Elmo quiere complacer a todos, por lo que sigue los consejos de todos; su hijo Mort hace lo mismo. Su problema empeora cuando tratan de vender su burro. Al tratar de complacer a todos, terminan complaciendo a nadie.

Zig, Ken, Jill, and Zig their pet monkey, are off for a fabulous family mountain hike. As usual, Zig, creates mayhem trying to make friends with a group of skunks and tries to jump on the back of a large deer for a ride, but he redeems himself when he saves Jill from a big bug. The exceptionally well-illustrated facial expressions of these fanciful characters and other wildlife in this adventurous tale provides an excellent opportunity for parents to discuss the joy of family time as their early readers master more advanced reading skills.

Missy the mouse has a very big problem—she hates the way she looks! If only she were as big and beautiful as Horace the cat, then all her problems would be gone.One day, while being chased by Horace, the incredible happens. Missy’s wish comes true! She turns into a cat—not just any cat, but the biggest and most beautiful cat in the whole world. But she quickly discovers that cats have problems with dogs. As Missy wishes herself into becoming bigger and stronger creatures, she finally discovers that everyone has problems and learns to accept herself for who she is. Grades K-4.Virtues: Self-Esteem / Trust / Cheerfulness

This is a family-friendly fishing expedition for advanced early readers. Rambunctious Bob ignores his father’s cautions about walking on the jetty, takes a big hop on a rock, and falls. Fortunately, he isn’t hurt. The cheerful, bright illustrations encourage young readers to follow the story and explore new word sounds. The story opens discussion points about listening and following instructions.

Journey into the remarkable lives of some of the most fascinating creatures in Animals on Land and In Water. This book explores the unique abilities and lifestyles of five animals that thrive on land while some also master the water. Discover how alligators patrol their environments with speed and strength, protecting their young with fierce devotion. Meet the mighty hippo, a heavyweight swimmer with a surprising knack for running fast. Learn how beavers build extraordinary dams and underwater homes to stay safe. Explore the Arctic with walruses, equipped with tusks for survival and the strength to weigh as much as two tons. Finally, leap into the story of frogs, masters of transformation, as they grow from tiny tadpoles into agile jumpers that can catch a fly faster than you can blink. Filled with fun facts and incredible details, Animals on Land and In Water will amaze and entertain readers of all ages while teaching about the incredible diversity of the animal kingdom.

When a tiny, yellow egg appears on the scene, three friends, Speckles the spider, Crumbs the cricket, and Annie the ant, aren’t sure what to think. But when Katy the caterpillar appears, Speckles and Crumbs think the caterpillar is much too ugly to be their friend. Only Annie the ant looks past the caterpillar’s funny shape and makes friends with Katy. As Katy the caterpillar begins her strange transformation into a beautiful butterfly, Annie is shocked and amazed. This educational and beautifully illustrated story shows the true meaning of beauty and friendship and the pitfalls of judging others by their appearances. Virtues: Respect for Others / Kindness / Friendship

Even though Randy is much loved at home, he has a serious problem—everything he has is old! His rich neighbor Mike, who often teases Randy, has a new bike, new toys, and never does chores. Randy, however, rides an old bike, has old toys, and has to do all kinds of work around the house. Though Randy is often reminded that “things don’t bring happiness,” he desperately wishes he could be rich so he could buy everything new.To Randy’s great delight, his wish comes true. Everything he touches turns into gold, even his beloved dog. As he holds his lifeless gold dog, he realizes he’s the most miserable kid in the world. Remembering he has one more wish, he uses it to return things as they were before. His wish comes true, and he becomes the richest poor kid.Virtues: Appreciation / Cheerfulness / Trust

Embark on an incredible journey with Traveling Animals, a captivating book that follows the awe-inspiring migrations of some of the world’s most remarkable creatures. From whales leaping out of the water and catching food to Arctic terns flying the longest migration route of any animal, this book reveals the wonders of animal travel. Learn how salmon swim back to their birthplace to lay eggs, sea turtles cross vast oceans to nest on sandy beaches, and over a million wildebeest migrate across the Serengeti, facing dangerous river crossings. Each migration tells a unique story of survival, determination, and the incredible instinct that drives animals to travel great distances.

Nicholas, a bored teenager, had to spend long hours watching his family’s sheep. To break the boredom he dreamed of ways to have fun. His practical jokes caused him to suffer loss, but it also opened his eyes.

In a lovely introduction to nonfiction, children learn the life cycle of mallard ducks. The story of the mallard duck is brought to life through aquatic photos rich in detail from Our Amazing World Series, Advanced. The book takes young readers inside the mallard’s habitat. Advanced early readers build fluency in literacy skills as they explore this enchanting book about ducks.

Mama duck is sitting in the nest and Papa duck is nearby waiting for the eggs to hatch into fluffy ducklings in this lovely introduction to nonfiction from Our Amazing World. An enchanting look inside the mallard home is shared through aquatic photos, rich with detail and ready for a curious child’s questions and comments. The babies are swimming!

In this entertaining new take on the classic tale, the time comes for Dozy, Pokey, and Hardy to strike out on their own. Warned by their parents to build sturdy houses to protect themselves from the big, bad wolf, Dozey and Pokey ignore their parents’ advice and build flimsy houses. But Hardy is different; he listens, works hard, and builds a strong house.When the big, bad wolf appears, the story takes a unique twist. Hardy turns hero and his well-spent time researching saves the day. In the end, all three little pigs come to appreciate the wisdom of listening to your parents, not taking short cuts, and working hard. Virtues: Diligence / Proper Work Ethic / Self-Discipline

Three boys grow up in the same drug-infested, gang-ruled, poverty-stricken neighborhood. Nelson becomes a successful doctor, his best friend Jesse, an award-winning architectural engineer, but Nelson’s brother Alvin ends up in jail. In this riveting tale, Nelson relates the story of their childhood, and how, with the love and guidance of his grandparents, they come upon valuable lessons on how against all odds to become successful. Featuring accounts from Benjamin Franklin, George Washington Carver, Helen Keller, and Abraham Lincoln, the boys are inspired by some of America’s greatest heroes. Although Alvin chooses differently, Nelson and Jesse are two friends who “Dare to Dream!” Virtues: Courage / Responsibility / Self-Discipline Tres niños crecen en el mismo vecindario infestado de drogas, gobernado por pandillas y empobrecido. Nelson se convierte en un médico exitoso, su mejor amigo Jesse, en un galardonado ingeniero civil, pero el hermano de Nelson, Alvin, termina en la cárcel.

Electricity powers our world, but have you ever wondered how it's made? How Electricity is Made takes readers on a fascinating journey to uncover the science behind this essential energy source. From creating a simple electromagnet to exploring massive power plants and dams like Hoover Dam, this book reveals how motion, magnets, and turbines generate electricity. Discover the role of windmills, nuclear power, and even car batteries in producing and storing energy. With engaging explanations and real-world connections, this book inspires curiosity and gratitude for the electricity that lights up our homes and fuels modern life.

Animals fascinate children, who enjoy learning about what they eat and how they live. Our Amazing World Series, Advanced, introduces the excitement of Arctic animals to young children through interesting nonfiction concepts. In this book, with crystal-clear, up-close-and-personal photos of Arctic animals, children get to know these unique animals. Advanced early readers will recognize many of the words in the narrative and delight in adding new words to their vocabularies, including the names of the animals.

In a creative imaginary world, this fun story unfolds with easy-to-pronounce words, assisting children in development of word recognition. Ben and Nell’s pet monkey, Bell, misbehaves on the plane trip to visit their grandparents. Bell continues his bad behavior when riding horses on the farm, making for funny situations that children will love. The colorful illustrations and exciting adventures will encourage children to read. Target Reader 5 is part of Phonics Adventure's systematic, leveled reading program.

In this engaging and educational story, Joy teams up with the alphabet letters to help children learn the importance of vowels and their sounds. The vowels—A, E, I, O, U, and sometimes Y—unite to teach both their short and long sounds through fun examples and mini-stories. As they explore words like "apple" and "ape," "igloo" and "ice cream," young readers discover how vowels are essential in nearly every word. The letters also demonstrate how "Y" can act as a vowel with sounds like "happy" or "fly." Filled with interactive dialogues and cheerful cooperation, the story celebrates the joy of learning and shows how working together makes education exciting and memorable.

Resilience, determination, and the willingness to learn are keys to overcoming obstacles, as highlighted in Success: Elephant Ears and Eagle Eyes. Through the inspiring stories of Abraham Lincoln, Helen Keller, Benjamin Franklin, and George Washington Carver, readers learn the importance of listening, observing, and persevering. This motivational book emphasizes the value of mentorship, self-discipline, and staying focused on one’s goals, making it an empowering guide for readers of all ages striving for success.

Dive deep into the ocean and discover the incredible lives of some of the largest and most fascinating creatures on Earth with Whales. This captivating book introduces readers to the humpback whale, known for its long life and remarkable swimming abilities, as well as its nurturing relationship with its calves. Learn how these whales work together to catch food like small fish and krill. Explore the friendly gray whale, famous for its interactions with humans, and the immense blue whale, the largest animal on the planet, whose size rivals 33 elephants. Discover the unique narwhal, with its iconic tusk, and the social beluga whale, often found swimming in large groups. Finally, meet the powerful orca, a skilled hunter with sharp teeth. Through fascinating facts about their diets, habitats, and behaviors, Whales reveals the beauty, intelligence, and diversity of these ocean giants, inspiring awe for the natural world.

Kim and Tim return for another boating adventure where the family goes on a fishing trip. A creative advanced early reader packed with lively dialogue and plenty of words with similar sounds produce an enjoyable reading experience. The lush colors of the water scenes coupled with the facial expressions of the characters leave no doubt that Kim and her mother are enjoying the fishing trip more than Tim and his father. The story is a good opportunity for parents to discuss jealousy and doing your best without holding a grudge if you don’t win.

Discover the majestic world of elephants in Elephants—Land Giants! This fascinating book takes readers on a journey into the lives of African elephants, the largest and heaviest land animals on Earth. Learn about their incredible social behavior, their powerful tusks, and their unique ways of cooling down, from splashing in water to rolling in mud and sand. Elephants are more than just land giants—they are skilled swimmers who can travel up to 30 miles in water and use their trunks for everything from drinking to comforting their friends. Explore the differences between African and Asian elephants, discover how elephants migrate to find food, and see how their tusks protect them from predators like lions. From their role in forests as workers to their place in tourism as stars of rides and shows, elephants continue to amaze us with their intelligence and strength. Whether you're interested in their family dynamics, their love of water, or their ability to help humans, this book offers something for everyone.

In Bitsie desperate attempt to provide for the necessities of life, she encounters the King of the Forest. The table gets turned and only one tiny creature comes to the rescue.

Stephanie witnesses the deterioration of her inner-city neighborhood and school. There are gangs and violence on the street, and chaos in the school. Stephanie decides to “light her candle” against the darkness. After convincing her two friends, they begin with one simple act of kindness. Next, they recruit their parents and neighbors to join them in the difficult task of cleaning up their street and bringing order to their school. Follow this heartwarming story of how one girl’s determination and passion to do good, sparks a “Light Your Candle” crusade that transforms an entire community. Virtues: Citizenship / Caring / Community Service