Most Popular Books by Kirby Larson

From a Newbery Honor author, a boy loans his dog to the US Army during World War II in this “incisive tale of loyalty, patriotism, sacrifice and bravery” (Publishers Weekly). Hanson is determined to do his part to help his family and his country, even if it means giving up his beloved German shepherd, Duke. Hoping to help end the war and bring his dad home faster, Hobie decides to donate Duke to Dogs for Defense, an organization that urges Americans to “loan” their pets to the military to act as sentries, mine sniffers, and patrol dogs. Hobie immediately regrets his decision and tries everything he can to get Duke back, even jeopardizing his friendship with the new boy at school. But when his father is taken prisoner by the Germans, Hobie realizes he must let Duke go and reach deep within himself to be brave. Will Hobie ever see Duke, or his father, again? Will life ever be the same? “Exceptionally well-crafted and emotionally authentic.” —Kirkus Reviews

This modern classic from Newbery award winning author Kirby Larson and Mary Nethery is a remarkable true story of the devotion, friendship, and survival of two pets left behind in the wake of Hurricane Katrina. A testament to the spirit that defined post-Katrina rescue missions, this beautiful picture book has been a favorite of young readers for fifteen years. During Hurricane Katrina, evacuating New Orleans residents were forced to leave their pets behind. Bobbi the dog was initially chained to keep her safe, but after her owners failed to return, she had to break free. For months, Bobbi wandered the city''s ravaged streets--dragging her chain behind her--followed by her feline companion, Bob Cat. After months of hunger and struggle, the Two Bobbies were finally rescued by a construction worker helping to rebuild the city. When he brought them to a shelter, volunteers made an amazing discovery about the devoted friends--Bob Cat was actually blind! He had survived the aftermath of the storm by following the sound Bobbi''s chain made as she dragged it along the ground. At the shelter, the two bob-tailed friends refused to be parted, even for a moment. Could rescue workers find the Bobbies'' owners? Or could they find a new home that would take them together?

NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • NEWBERY HONOR AWARD WINNER A classic YA novel about a teenage girl searching for a sense of home and family that celebrates the true spirit of independence on the American frontier. For most of her life, sixteen-year-old Hattie Brooks has been shuttled from one distant relative to another. Tired of being Hattie Here-and-There, she summons the courage to leave Iowa and move all by herself to Vida, Montana, to prove up on her late uncle’s homestead claim. Under the big sky, Hattie braves hard weather, hard times, a cantankerous cow, and her own hopeless hand at the cookstove. Her quest to make a home is championed by new neighbors Perilee Mueller, her German husband, and their children. For the first time in her life, Hattie feels part of a family, finding the strength to stand up against Traft Martin’s schemes to buy her out and against increasing pressure to be a “loyal” American at a time when anything—or anyone—German is suspect. Despite daily trials, Hattie continues to work her uncle’s claim until an unforeseen tragedy causes her to search her soul for the real meaning of home. This young pioneer''s story is lovingly stitched together from Kirby Larson’s own family history and the sights, sounds, and scents of homesteading life.

From a Newbery Honor author, a “heartwarming, genuine story” of a girl’s who bonds with a rescued dog after her brother leaves to fight in World War II (Booklist). Billie has lived with her great-aunt ever since her mom passed away and her dad left. Billie’s big brother, Leo, is about to leave, too, for the warfront. But first, she gets one more weekend with him at the ranch. Billie’s surprised when Leo brings home a fellow Marine from boot camp, Denny. She has so much to ask Leo—about losing her best friend and trying to find their father—but Denny, who is Navajo, or Diné, comes with something special: a gorgeous, but injured, stray dog. As Billie cares for the dog, whom they name Bear, she and Bear grow deeply attached to each other. Soon enough, it’s time for Leo and Denny, a Navajo Code Talker, to ship out. Billie does her part for the war effort, but she worries whether Leo and Denny will make it home, whether she’ll find a new friend, and if her father will ever come back. Can Bear help Billie—and Denny—find what’s most important? A powerful tale about unsung heroism on the WWII battlefield and the home front. “A story of loneliness, loss, friendship.” —School Library Journal

From a Newbery Honor author, a white boy and black girl bond in World War II Louisiana as they rescue a dog in this “practically perfect” historical novel (Kirkus Reviews). With his dad serving in World War II in Europe, and his sister working at the Higgins Boat factory to support the war effort, Fish Elliot fights off loneliness. That is, when he’s not fending off his annoying neighbor, Olympia, who has a knack for messing up Fish’s inventions. But when his latest invention leads Fish to Liberty, a beautiful stray dog who needs a home, he and Olympia work together to rescue her. His growing friendship with Olympia, who is African American, is not the norm in 1940s New Orleans. But as they work together to save Liberty, he finds his perceptions of the world—of race and war, family and friendship—transformed. “Larson . . . creates an engaging story that is rich in historical details. She purposefully captures both the fear and the hope in a world torn by war as well as the simple love of a boy for his dog. Practically perfect.” —Kirkus Reviews “A slice-of-life tale for historical fiction fans and animal lovers alike.” —School Library Journal

Things at school have changed and at home Nanea''s brother is talking about enlisting in the military; Nanea is having trouble coping with all these changes and turns to hula dancing to help her feel better.

New from Newbery Honor author Kirby Larson, the moving story of a Japanese-American girl who is separated from her dog upon being sent to an incarceration camp during WWII. Although Mitsi Kashino and her family are swept up in the wave of anti-Japanese sentiment following the attack on Pearl Harbor, Mitsi never expects to lose her home -- or her beloved dog, Dash. But, as World War II rages and people of Japanese descent are forced into incarceration camps, Mitsi is separated from Dash, her classmates, and life as she knows it. The camp is a crowded and unfamiliar place, whose dusty floors, seemingly endless lines, and barbed wire fences begin to unravel the strong Kashino family ties. With the help of a friendly neighbor back home, Mitsi remains connected to Dash in spite of the hard times, holding on to the hope that the war will end soon and life will return to normal. Though they''ve lost their home, will the Kashino family also lose their sense of family? And will Mitsi and Dash ever be reunited?

Newbery Honor author Kirby Larson brings us the first new Dear America diary in years, taking readers through the attack on Pearl Harbor, the start of World War II, and the Japanese incarceration.With this sweeping tale of life on the World War II homefront, Newbery Honor author Kirby Larson brings her incredible talent to the Dear America series. When Pearl Harbor is attacked, America is finally unable to ignore the wars raging in Europe and Asia any longer. And one girl''s entire life is about to change when everything she knows is turned on its head. After the devastating attack on Pearl Harbor, where her brother, a navy sailor, is stationed, Piper Davis begins chronicling her compelling journey through one of history''s most tragic and unforgettable eras.

I am Miss Kanagawa. In 1927, my 57 doll-sisters and I were sent from Japan to America as Ambassadors of Friendship. Our work wasn''t all peach blossoms and tea cakes. My story will take you from New York to Oregon, during the Great Depression. Though few in this tale are as fascinating as I, their stories won''t be an unpleasant diversion. You will make the acquaintance of Bunny, bent on revenge; Lois, with her head in the clouds; Willie Mae, who not only awakened my heart, but broke it; and Lucy, a friend so dear, not even war could part us. I have put this tale to paper because from those 58 Friendship Dolls only 45 remain. I know that someone who chooses this book is capable of solving the mystery of the missing sisters. Perhaps that someone is you.

Nanea Mitchell thinks she is grown up enough to help in her grandparent''s market, but before she can prove herself, Japan attacks Pearl Harbor, the naval base where her father works, and suddenly her island way of life is changed forever.

Will summer break be a drag or a blast for meticulous Shermy when rambunctious Shake moves in next door? From Newbery Honor recipient Kirby Larson comes a bighearted chapter book about two boys’ friendship. When a new kid comes to stay with his grandmother at the house next door, Shermy’s plans for a quiet, relaxing summer are completely upended. That’s because Shake is nothing like Shermy. And Shermy is nothing like Shake. Shermy likes to read quietly in the shade of a tree. He knows the proper way to do a puzzle. He collects treasures in the pouch he wears around his neck, and the books on his shelves are alphabetized by author. Shake likes to play street hockey or space explorers. He gobbles up rocket ice pops and Toaster Tarts. He shows up unannounced and plays board games by his own rules. As the two boys are forced to spend more and more time together, will they learn how to get along? Or will it be one long countdown until Shake goes home? Newbery Honor recipient Kirby Larson teams up with debut illustrator Shinji Fujioka to create a humorous and heartfelt ode to summer—and to unexpected friendships.

After leaving Uncle Chester''s homestead claim, orphan Hattie Brooks throws a lasso around a new dream, even bigger than the Montana sky. She wants to be a reporter, knowing full well that a few pieces published in the Arlington News will not suffice. Real reporters must go to Grand Places, and do Grand Things, like Hattie''s hero Nellie Bly. Another girl might be stymied by this, but Hattie has faced down a hungry wolf and stood up to a mob of angry men. Nothing can squash her desire to write for a big city newspaper. A letter and love token from Uncle Chester''s old flame in San Francisco fuels that desire and Hattie jumps at the opportunity to get there by working as a seamstress for a traveling acting troupe. This could be her chance to solve the mystery of her "scoundrel" uncle and, in the process, help her learn more about herself. But Hattie must first tell Charlie that she will not join him in Seattle. Even though her heart approves of Charlie''s plan for their marriage, her mind fears that saying yes to him would be saying no to herself. Hattie holds her own in the big city, literally pitching her way to a byline, and a career that could be even bigger than Nellie Bly''s. But can making headlines compensate for the pain of betrayal and lost love? Hattie must dig deep to find her own true place in the world. Kirby Larson once again creates a lovingly written novel about the remarkable and resilient young orphan, Hattie Inez Brooks.

Critically acclaimed, bestselling author and Newbery Honor-winner, Kirby Larson, and her daughter, debut author, Quinn Wyatt, pen this gorgeously moving and often funny story that explores what living with a chronic illness is like. Inspired by Quinn''s own personal journey, Gut Reaction is full of heart and humor and highlights the importance of asking for help when it comes to mental and physical health alike. Tess Medina is still dealing with the loss of her father when she starts at a new school. One way she is still able to feel close to him is by doing what she does best: baking. He taught her everything she knows. But when tasting her creations causes a deep stabbing pain in her abdomen, she tries to power through and be strong in the same way she powers through her emotional pain. She doesn''t mind too much--she''s okay with sharing her baked goods at school in the hopes of making new friends. Lucky for Tess, her baking skills attract the right kind of attention, and she assembles a ragtag team to help her taste her new and classic creations in preparation for the Jubilee Flour Junior Baker West Coast competition. This is a chance to redeem herself and prove that she''s a star baker. Above all, Tess is desperate to win first place and make her dad proud. But leading up to the competition, Tess''s pain gets worse and worse, and, soon, she finds that she''s avoiding so many foods that she''s barely eating. When the physical pain becomes too great, Tess will be forced to confront everything she has been trying so desperately to hide. From Newbery Honor author Kirby Larson and her daughter, debut author Quinn Wyatt, comes a poignant, sometimes silly, and always moving story of coming to grips with grief and finding the sweet filling inside every treat. Praise for Gut Reaction by Kirby Larson and Quinn Wyatt: "Gut Reaction is a poignant, triumphant tale about living with chronic illness, overcoming loss, and reaffirming joy and self-love. Tess is funny, relatable, brave, and an awesome baker!" --Jewell Parker Rhodes, New York Times bestselling author of Ghost Boys. "A powerful story about living with a disease and not letting it define who you are."--Alan Gratz, New York Times bestselling author of Refugee and Two Degrees. "Kirby Larson and Quinn Wyatt have cooked up a rich, warm story about Crohn''s Disease, courage, and cookies. The voice is heartfelt and authentic, leavened with humor and, oh my frog, delicious desserts. Gut Reaction is a wonderful book about important things, and I recommend it highly."--Karen Cushman, author of the Newbery Award-winning The Midwife''s Apprentice. "A multi-layered, straight-from-the-heart story written with a light, deft touch,Gut Reaction will inspire readers to pursue their creative passions. I loved this touching, sweet, and engaging book!"--Barbara Dee, award-winning author of Unstuck. "Sweet and delicious! You will gobble up this book in one bite!"--Jennifer L. Holm, New York Times bestselling author of The Fourteenth Goldfish. "Gut Reaction is a much-needed and important book for everyone: those suffering with Crohn''s disease, their family and friends who want to help them, and for all the rest who need to understand. Written with the voice of authenticity by a mother/daughter team who know firsthand the effects of this painful and often embarrassing disease. Toss in a handful of lovable and diverse characters and an edge-of-your-seat cooking competition and Gut Reaction is a recipe for success."--Barbara O''Connor, author of How To Steal A Dog and WISH. "I would have finished Gut Reaction in one swoop--but I didn''t want it to end. I especially loved the baking connection, but the story''s honesty, the humor and the friendships added so many layers. If the topic seems serious--and it is, the way Tess struggles to accept her illness will resonate with readers. Tess Medina is an inspiration. Her story will be one you''ll remember long after that last page is turned."--Augusta Scattergood, author of Glory Be and The Way To Stay In Destiny. "Great British Baking Show meets Guts by Raina Telgemeier. Entertaining and informative. Really put me inside the mind of a level-headed fourteen-year-old forced to deal with one awkward and humiliating situation after another."--Gennifer Choldenko, Newbery Honor author of Al Capone Does My Shirts, and coauthor of Dogtown with Katherine Applegate.

Over 100,000 copies sold! A true story of a marine and the miraculously loyal dog he befriends in Iraq. Nubs, an Iraqi dog of war, never had a home or a person of his own. He was the leader of a pack of wild dogs living off the land and barely surviving. But Nubs''s life changed when he met Marine Major Brian Dennis. The two formed a fast friendship, made stronger by Dennis''s willingness to share his meals, offer a warm place to sleep, and give Nubs the kind of care and attention he had never received before. Nubs became part of Dennis''s human "pack" until duty required the Marines to relocate a full 70 miles away--without him. Nubs had no way of knowing that Marines were not allowed to have pets. So began an incredible journey that would take Nubs through a freezing desert, filled with danger tofind his friend and would lead Dennis on a mission that would touch the hearts of people all over the world. Nubs and Dennis will remind readers that friendship has the power to cross deserts, continents, and even species.

The plucky and adventurous Audacity Jones returns for a brand new adventure in New York City, by Newbery Honor author Kirby Larson. Audacity Jones and her best friend, Bimmy, are setting off from Miss Maisie''s School for Wayward Girls on an extraordinary adventure! In the glittering city of New York, the girls meet Harry Houdini, the world''s most famous magician, as he prepares a new spectacle: Houdini plans to make an elephant disappear from a crowded theater.But Audacity and Bimmy discover a nefarious plot that puts Houdini''s illusion in jeopardy. Who could be trying to sabotage the master magician? Audie will need all her smarts, the help of friends new and old, and even her best juggling skills to solve this mystery. Will she manage to save the show in time?Newbery Honor author Kirby Larson brings readers a magical romp of a mystery that will delight and thrill to the very last page.

Shermy is excited to learn the new kid in school is none other than his pal Shake, but what if the other kids like Shake better? The two friends’ story, from Newbery Honoree Kirby Larson, continues with heart and humor. Being a second grader is even cooler than Shermy imagined. He loves reading new stories (and filling out charts about them!), helping his teacher get organized, and being a good classroom leader. So when the teacher asks Shermy to be a school buddy for the new kid, Shermy says, “Sure!” Imagine his surprise when the new kid turns out to be Shake—Shermy’s summer friend from out of town. This is amazing news! Or is it? Meticulous Shermy and boisterous Shake couldn’t be more different, and soon the other kids are all looking at Shake like he’s a super rare Magic Monster card—and not looking at Shermy at all. Can Shermy and Shake stay buddies now that school is in session? A nuanced story about friendship that shines with authentic humor and understanding, from Newbery Honoree Kirby Larson and illustrator Shinji Fujioka.

An irrepressible orphan named Audacity Jones is headed on an adventure of historic proportions! The first book in a brand-new series from beloved Newbery Honor author Kirby Larson! Audacity Jones is an eleven-year-old orphan who aches for adventure, a challenge to break up the monotony of her life at Miss Maisie''s School for Wayward Girls. Life as a wayward girl isn''t so bad; Audie has the best of friends, a clever cat companion, and plenty of books to read. Still, she longs for some excitement, like the characters in the novels she so loves encounter.So when the mysterious Commodore Crutchfield visits the school and whisks Audie off to Washington, DC, she knows she''s in for the journey of a lifetime. But soon, it becomes clear that the Commodore has unsavory plans for Audie -- plans that involve the president of the United States and a sinister kidnapping plot. Before she knows it, Audie winds up in the White House kitchens, where she''s determined to stop the Commodore dead in his tracks. Can Audie save the day before it''s too late?

A collection of short stories from favorite authors, all about dogs and the kids who love them. Royalties will be donated to RedRover, an organization that helps animals in need! This collection is full of heartwarming and hilarious stories about the Pawley Rescue Center, where rescued dogs find their way into hearts and homes. You''ll meet Foxtrot, a feisty Pomeranian who can''t bear the thought of leaving her best friend. And Beatrice, whose bark is definitely worse than her bite. And then there''s Pumpkin, one of the 101 Chihuahuas who turn life at the center upside down. Whether drooling, dueling, or just fooling around, these captivating canines will show you why the dog is kid''s best friend! LUCKY DOG features sweet and silly stories about playful pups and the kids who love them by some of your favorite authors: Randi Barrow, Marlane Kennedy, Elizabeth Cody Kimmel, Kirby Larson, C. Alexander London, Leslie Margolis, Jane B. Mason and Sarah Hines Stephens, Ellen Miles, Michael Northrop, Teddy Slater, Tui T. Sutherland, and Allan Woodrow.

Second grader Quinn tries to earn a gold star on the bulletin board for National Pig Day and regain her friendship with a new student following a mix-up.

Tells the true story of a mutt named Nubs, who was befriended by a marine on duty at the Iraqi border and became so devoted to the marine that he followed him on foot to his next post more than seventy miles away.

Sharp-tongued and lonely Griselda gets a magic kerchief from a mysterious stranger, and when she wears it she can speak only kind words to the people she meets.

When the class bully teases him about his friendship with a girl, Cody must decide whether to stay mad, to get even, or to help his tormentor.

Before nine-year-old Nanea can prove that she''s ready for more responsibility, Japan attacks Pearl Harbor, the naval base where her father works! With friends and family missing, and rumors of more attacks to come, Nanea wonders if life ever be the same again.

Discover the world of Bitty Baby - a special new friend to help girls ages 3 - 5 shine bright! These engaging tales are written by Newbery Honor winner Kirby Larson and illustrated by award-winning artist Sue Cornelison. In this story, a little girl and her Bitty Baby doll hear a scary noise in the basement when they visit Grammy and Grampa''s new house. To calm her fears, the little girl tells Bitty Baby a story about overcoming fear with friendship where Bitty Baby goes on an imaginary adventure and meets a gorilla, a boa, and an elephant. Includes a "For Parents" section that offers insight and tips on traveling with young children.

Discover the world of Bitty Baby - a special new friend to help girls ages 3 - 5 shine bright! These engaging tales are written by Newbery Honor Award winner Kirby Larson and illustrated by award-winning artist Sue Cornelison. In this first story, a little girl introduces her new doll, Bitty Baby, to her family, including her prickly big sister. At nap time, the little girl tells Bitty Baby a story about a magical mermaid adventure - but the best magic of all is the creative way the girl makes her wish come true and gets her older sister to play with her. Includes a "For Parents" section that focuses on the social and emotional experience of preschoolers and offers parenting tips.

Discover the world of Bitty Baby - a special new friend to help girls ages 3 - 5 shine bright! These engaging tales are written by Newbery Honor winner Kirby Larson and illustrated by award-winning artist Sue Cornelison. In this story, a little girl takes her Bitty Baby doll outside to play in the snow, but her big brother is too busy sledding to help build a snowman. As she waits, the girl tells a story about Bitty Baby and a polar bear and how they learn to play together. When her brother finally arrives, she has solved her own problem. Includes a "For Parents" section that provides insight and tips on encouraging positive social play.

Looking forward to swimming lessons before finding out that she will have to put her face underwater, a little girl tells her doll, Bitty Baby, a story about a brave little duckling who teaches his brothers and sisters that practice makes perfect.

Dive into Hawaiian history with Nanea in this three-book boxed set. You''ll journey to Honolulu, where peaceful island life is upended with the attack on Pearl Harbor. You''ll learn how hula can heal the spirit, and how Nanea wants more than anything to lend a helping hand to the soldiers. Then, travel back in time to meet Nanea in an exciting story that lets you choose what happens next

"Everything has changed...since the war started. Nanea had hoped that going back to school would make life seem normal again. But it hasn''t. There are still curfews and blackouts and constant reminders of war. Nanea''s dear friend Donna had to leave Hawaii, and Nanea''s big brother keeps talking about joining the Army. She can''t bear the thought of him far from home and in danger. In the swirl of changes, Nanea turns to hula. Dancing makes her feel better, and soon she learns how much it lifts the spirits of the soldiers, too. When a surprising hula partner boosts everyone''s morale, Nanea gets a big idea" -- Back cover.

Learner ResourceLife Together learner resources are colorful, ready-to-use sheets used to reinforce session learning. Children take the sheets home each week to guide continued learning with their families through prayer, activities, and observations of the world around them.

Life Together Sunday School Resources begin with children''s daily life experiences and lead them to encounter God''s word together, with each other, with their families, and with their community. Using a lectionary-based approach that focuses on building Christian relationships and community, Life Together uses learner''s experiences, wraps them around the Word, reinforces the message contained in the worship and makes key connections to themes of Christian life. Life Together is a dated, quarterly resource. Quarters are divided so that they intersect both with the school year and the church year.--Publisher''s website.