New Releases by Kevin Cunningham

"Wildfires helped keep nature in balance for millions of years. But today’s wildfires burn hotter, last longer, and happen more often because of climate change. The latest book in the Planet in Danger series, The Threat of Wildfires explains the links between human-caused climate change and these dangerous events. Cutting-edge science describes what conditions spark the flames and detail the human activities involved. Dramatic images take readers onto the hot and smoky front lines while extras like maps and fast facts provide next-level information. A further reading and viewing section, glossary, and timeline point the way for anyone interested in learning more"--Provided by publisher.

"The weather becomes more extreme as Earth''s atmosphere heats up. Today''s storms drop record amounts of rain that cause disastrous floods while massive snowfalls shut down cities. The Planet in Danger series presents Extreme Climate, Extreme Storms, an in-depth look at today''s super-strong rainstorms, hurricanes, and floods. Climate refugees provide eyewitness stories of lives uprooted by extreme weather while scientists share expert viewpoints and the latest research. Fast facts give readers added pieces of information. Color images and maps offer dramatic visual evidence. A glossary boosts vocabulary and a list of suggested resources opens the door to further exploration"--Provided by publisher.

"Ancient lakes turned into wastelands. Vast fields of brown grass. Desperate people on the move in search of water. Droughts have become a threat around the world. The Planet in Danger series delves into the science behind this often-overlooked catastrophe. In Drought: The Quiet Disaster, experts discuss climate change''s role in causing more frequent and intense droughts. Eyewitnesses tell vivid stories of life during drought and share hopeful accounts of finding solutions to problems. Color images and fast facts supply another level of information. Maps track drought while a glossary defines important terms. Special sections point readers to resources for learning more"--Provided by publisher.

"People depend on biodiversity. But today, plant and animal species go extinct faster than at any point in human history. The latest book in the Planet in Danger series, The Loss of Biodiversity explores the relationship between human beings and the living world and the threat to it posed by climate change. On-the-ground stories highlight how people maintain biodiversity to better their own lives. The latest research details the fascinating ways living things play a part in our food, medicines, and inventions. Full-color photos, maps, and a glossary illustrate ideas. A timeline places biodiversity in history. Suggested resources steer readers to further information"--Provided by publisher.

The Florida panther once roamed the entire southeastern United States. But hunting and loss of habitat eventually reduced the species to 20 animals—and put it on the edge of extinction. The latest book in the Animals in Danger series, Florida Panthers combines scientific information with the dramatic story of the big cat’s comeback. Illustrations and extra features like maps and a glossary fill out a portrait of a species at the top of its ecosystem. The text details how scientists, photographers, and others have worked to guarantee the Florida panther’s survival in the present and future.

Playful and popular, the sea otter is a favorite at zoos and aquariums. But the species almost vanished from the wild because humans valued its fur. Animals in Danger: Sea Otters tells the amazing story of the tool-using mammal and the challenges it faces in the twenty-first century. Cutting-edge science describes the animal’s life in the sea and important place in the ecosystem. Generous images show the sea otter in the wild. An easy-to-follow glossary teaches new words while bonus features like Next Level Facts and a list of resources encourage readers to learn more.

The whooping crane is one of North America’s rarest (and tallest) birds. Human activity once left less than 20 whoopers alive. Scientists and nature groups now work to save the species. Whooping Cranes draws on up-to-date science. Stories and next level facts explain the bird’s life and diet. The book also details the ways people help—and harm—the species. This book in the Animals in Danger series takes readers inside the whooping crane’s world. Clear text and beautiful images provide what you need to know. Added features like maps and a glossary round out your knowledge.

Both a worker and a wonder, the Asian elephant has lived side by side with people for thousands of years. But habitat loss, hunting, and climate change have pushed Asia’s largest land animal onto the endangered species list. Asian Elephants, part of the Animals in Danger series, details what science tells us about the pachyderm and its complex everyday life. Beautiful illustrations and engaging text tell the fascinating story of an intelligent giant that plays a central role in its ecosystem.

Mountain gorillas are one of our closest animal relatives. But human activity has pushed the species close to extinction. Animals in Danger: Mountain Gorillas presents an in-depth look at the intelligent great ape. The latest scientific information describes the mountain gorilla’s everyday life and place in the environment. On-the-ground reports reveal how local people team with experts to find solutions to the serious problems that endanger the apes. In addition, images take readers up close to the shy animals. Extras like maps and inside facts provide a wealth of information on mountain gorillas and the threats to their future.

Killed for their horns, Africa’s black rhinos face extinction. The species has made a comeback with human help. But hunters and lack of space still threaten its survival. The Animals in Danger series presents Black Rhinos, an all-around guide to the fascinating two-horned giant. Cutting-edge science helps tell the inside story of the black rhino’s habits and personality. Eyewitness reports offer a look at the work to save the species. In addition, images and extra features like maps and a glossary help readers understand black rhinos and how human actions affect the animal’s present and future.

Killian Flaherty is a man who seemingly has it all: a beautiful wife, Lindsay, a great career, and wonderful children. From the moment he laid eyes on Lindsay, Killian knew that she was the one for him. Her breathtaking beauty, her hypnotizing deep chestnut brown eyes, and golden hair cascading down her shoulders were matched only by their shared passions and interests.For twenty years, Killian and Lindsay''s love for each other only grew stronger. Their passion for each other was intense; however, Killian began to sense that his life was in danger. He discovers that his life with Lindsay was just a figment of his subconscious due to being in a coma, while in reality, he was married to an equally wonderful woman named Jennifer. Killian discovers that his sense of danger was Jennifer discussing taking him off life support so that she could move on with her life. To save his life, Killian battles with giving up his magical life with Lindsay and returning to his life with Jennifer.In this story, the reader is taken on a journey through Killian''s thoughts as he navigates the complexities of love and reality. As the story progresses, this conflict becomes stronger. Killian struggles to reconcile his love for both women and must navigate the complexities of his dual reality. The story ends on a hopeful note as Killian finds peace through his ability to manage his life across multiple timelines and is an exploration of how the power of our consciousness goes beyond our earthly bindings and how it can manifest a person''s perception of love, happiness, and reality.

As a boy, Gary Soto dreamed of escaping the barrios and dusty fields of Fresno, California. His determination to read and learn and a gift for describing the world around him made Soto an award-winning American writer. This book in the Notable Hispanic Americans series follows the poet from a childhood raised in u0093a home without books.u0094 Soto suffered years of hardship but nonetheless turned himself into a top student, a groundbreaking Chicano poet, and a writer and educator who pivoted from his success with poetry to become a bestselling storyteller for young people.

Growing up without much interest in science, Ellen Ochoa discovered physics in college and studied electrical engineering. Sally Rideu0092s historic example inspired Ochoa to enter NASAu0092s astronaut program and in time, she made history as the first Hispanic woman in space. This book in the Notable Hispanic Americans series tells the extraordinary story of a trailblazing woman who played an important role on four space shuttle missions, became a NASA leader in a time of tragedy and change, and devoted her post-space career to encouraging others to study STEM and reach for the stars.

The daughter of Puerto Rican immigrants, Sonia Sotomayor lived a difficult childhood that included two troubled parents and learning to cope with a serious illness. Her talent for debate and love of hard work propelled her through top universities while her successful career as a lawyer and judge prepared her to become the first Hispanic to serve on the United States Supreme Court. This book in the Notable Hispanic Americans series, Sonia Sotomayor tells the dramatic story of a Latina icon who powered through intense criticism and personal setbacks to pursue justice, help others, and make history.

Raised by an educator mother, Antonia Novello survived a childhood illness to become a physician who specialized in treating children. Her work in the Public Health Service made her the first woman and first Latino to serve as Surgeon General of the United States. This book in the Notable Hispanic Americans series follows an extraordinary figure from her childhood in Puerto Rico through a historic career as a public health leader who blazed new trails handling emergencies like teen smoking, HIV/AIDS, and the September 11th attacks.

José Andrés arrived in the United States with $50 and a set of professional chefu0092s knives. As a chef, he made Spanish food popular in America and opened several acclaimed restaurants. But a devastating hurricane in Haiti changed his life. Andres''s group, World Central Kitchen soon provided food to people in need after earthquakes and other natural disastersu0097before Russiau0092s invasion of Ukraine presented an enormous new challenge. This book in the Notable Hispanic Americans series tells the dramatic story of an immigrant from Spain who built a successful business, worked with world leaders, and changed the way we help people in need.

Fashion icon. Admired businessperson. Immigrant success story. Carolina Herrera turned her eye for style and love of clothes into a billion-dollar company. This book in the Notable Hispanic Americans series follows the legendary designer from her childhood in Venezuela to her rise to the top of American fashion. Herrerau0092s life included friendships with celebrities and First Ladies. But her decision to start a fashion business brought her face-to-face with a high-pressure career and the need to balance work with raising a family.

This title focuses on the creation and impact of the Emancipation Proclamation, including its historical context and how it altered the course of the war. Critical thinking questions and two “Voices from the Past” special features help readers understand and analyze the various views people held at the time.

The most faithful adaptation of Louisa May Alcott''s Little Women for the theater -- and for the casual reader... Adapting a beloved 400+ page novel for the stage presents a challenge: can any theatrical version really stay true to the heart and spirit of Alcott''s timeless "story about girls"? Many dramatized versions (both stage and screen) eliminate critical events, or even stop at the first half of the book, leaving you wondering: "Huh? What happens to Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy next? Where are my favorite scenes?" Kevin Cunningham''s full-length play version of Little Women is different: all the dialogue (and even the stage directions) are taken directly from the novel you love, preserving intact the full journeys of Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy. From their forlorn "Merry Christmas" through their heartaches, disagreements, tragedies, and joys; meeting new friends and finding their "heart''s true loves"; taking their "pilgrim''s journeys" from selfishness to compassion -- Little Women: The Play includes all the essential elements of Alcott''s story. Louisa May Alcott -- An Important Character in Her Own Right Capturing the novel faithfully in a dramatic format is one thing. But, as Greta Gerwig has also realized, Alcott''s story is even more remarkable when seen in its context: as a groundbreaking novel for girls produced by a woman writer in an era when boy''s books were the only game in town, and female writers were third-class citizens. It''s easy to forget that Little Women became the literary sensation of its time. It was the Harry Potter series of its era, with Louisa May as her day''s J. K. Rowling. The success of the novel forever freed her from writing lurid novels (like A Long Fatal Love Chase) -- but it almost cost her her health. Little Women: The Play incorporates this remarkable history in three additional scenes that frame the story of the novel. Louisa May Alcott appears onstage, along with her publisher Thomas Niles Jr., to commission and discuss the progress of the book. The novel we love unfolds onstage as the creation of the author herself. Details for Theatrical Productions The cast includes distinct roles for 7 men and 8 women, but a number of the parts can be double- or triple-cast (or given to Louisa May Alcott, acting out the part as part of her writing process). The play is designed for presentation in a black box theater, so it is carefully constructed to require only a single set, with a few distinct playing areas. The paperback version of the book (but not the Kindle eBook) includes three appendices useful for groups hoping to produce the play: an acting plot, showing which roles appear in which scenes; a list of set pieces (furniture, etc.) used in a typical production; a detailed list of props and sound cues, listed by what scenes they appear in. Groups looking to stage Alcott''s story as she wrote it need look no further. Little Women: The Play is pure Alcott, distilled. Scroll back up and order your copy today. -- And break a leg! Fun for the Casual Reader Too Like audience members of the staged production, casual readers too will find that Little Women: The Play is a great way to experience the essence of the novel without having to make your way through the original''s 400+ pages. There is of course no substitute for reading the full novel, but here is the next best thing -- a reading experience that faithfully conveys the quintessence of Louisa May Alcott''s story. Scroll back up and order your copy today. -- And happy reading!

Violence fills us with horror. Yet violence entertains us. How is this possible? Are human beings born violent? Or do we learn to do it? Most important of all: can we stop before we destroy each other? Can People Stop Being Violent? looks at how thinkers have tackled the problem of violence. From school shootings to giant robots, real and pretend violence are part of our everyday lives. Yet philosophers of nonviolence tirelessly work to show human beings a better way. Packed with 2500 years of wisdom and stories, Can People Stop Being Violent? challenges readers to think about their own ideas about violence.

We have long looked for the connections that unite us. Philosophers found links in faith. Scientists discovered new relationships between humans and humans, humans and nature, and humans and the stars. Thinkers still search for the mathematical equation that will explain it all. Is Everything Connected? draws on an always-growing web of thought to show readers the ties that bind. Ancient tales and modern science form a double spiral staircase of ideas. On the top floor: big questions about the roots of our differences, our place among earth’s life forms, and the ways that the Force and silly games express our bold shared dream of togetherness.

“The idea of women moving through the world as freely as men should sell itself,” Roxane Gay said. That is not the case. Women lag behind men when it comes to freedom, money, respect, and education. Can We Achieve Gender Equality? delves into the ways philosophy explores a woman’s place in the world. Men have controlled women in countless ways. But from voting rights to #MeToo, women have persisted in their quest to change traditions and remake their own lives. Can We Achieve Gender Equality? takes readers into the bold history of women’s thought and encourages them to answer one of philosophy’s thorniest questions.

From brushing our teeth to walking the dog, we take on responsibilities all the time. Philosophers have long discussed responsibility. Ancient thinkers focused on how we should behave. Later philosophers wondered why we do what we do. Today’s scientists suggest we have far less control over our actions than we realize. Am I Responsible for My Actions? travels around the world and into our brains to ask Big Questions about how we create our own lives through responsible behavior—and to reveal the incredible power we can unleash when we take responsibility for ourselves and others.

We are paying new attention to the old idea that we should treat animals better. Eating a meatless diet is more popular than ever. People from philosophers to musicians work to end laboratory testing on animals. Yet animals provide us with food and clothing. Medical treatments tested on rats and chimpanzees save lives every day. Is it impossible for humans to live without using animals? Or should we stop making animals serve us? Should We Treat Animals Better? travels through history to provide readers with the wisdom and skills they need to think about one of today’s biggest issues.

Plato said, “He whom love touches not walks in darkness.” But trying to understand love has left us in the dark for thousands of years. How does something that touches us all create so much confusion? What Is Love? tells how philosophers (and everyone else) have answered one of life’s most important questions. From ancient battles to pop songs, thinkers have approached love as a problem to solve. Yet love is also an action word that becomes an unstoppable force in people’s lives. Filled with wisdom and storytelling, What Is Love? boldly explores our quest to understand love’s purpose and power.