Most Popular Books by Laurie Calkhoven

In this kids'' biography, discover the amazing story of Martin Luther King Jr., whose powerful words and dreams for the future inspired the world. Martin Luther King Jr. will always be remembered for his famous "I have a dream" speech, which he gave during the March on Washington in 1963. But his life before and after that big event, and his other enormous contributions to the Civil Rights Movement in the United States, largely go unspoken. In this biography for kids ages 8-12, learn all about MLK - from his early family life and experiences in education, to his untimely death and the worldwide mourning and riots that followed. This new biography series from DK goes beyond the basic facts to tell the true life stories of history''s most interesting people. Full-color photographs and hand-drawn illustrations complement thoughtfully written, age-appropriate text to create an engaging book children will enjoy reading. Definition boxes, information sidebars, fun facts, maps, inspiring quotes, and other nonfiction text features add depth, and a handy reference section at the back makes this the one biography series every teacher and librarian will want to collect. Each book also includes an author''s introduction letter, a glossary, and an index.

Presents the life and accomplishments of the American hero, who was the commander-in-chief of the Continental Army during the American Revolution and who became the first president of the United States.

An introduction to the life of Harriet Tubman, who spent her childhood in slavery and later worked to help other slaves escape north to freedom through the Underground Railroad.

Go behind enemy lines through the eyes of famous four-legged heroes in history''s biggest conflicts. In G.I. Dogs #2, you''ll meet Sergeant Stubby, the most decorated canine soldier of World War I! Meet Stubby: a stray pup who was taken in by a group of American soldiers-in-training and soon found himself whisked off to the frontlines of World War I as the official mascot of the 102nd Infantry Regiment! Stubby served bravely by his soldiers'' sides for 18 months and became a hero when he saved his regiment from a surprise gas attack, and again when he singlehandedly caught an enemy German soldier in No Man''s Land. Join Stubby on his incredible journey from puppy to soldier to high-ranking sergeant as he narrates his story of heroism. This "dog''s-eye view" takes readers into the heart of the action of WWI and will leave you cheering for Stubby and his human companions as they overcome countless obstacles and prove time and again why a dog really is man''s best friend.

Meet the environmentally-minded kids who are coming up with ways to save the planet in this fascinating nonfiction Level 3 Ready-to-Read, part of a series of biographies about people “you should meet!” Have you ever wondered what you could do to help the planet? Find out how kids are helping the environment by selling lemonade to save the honeybees, starting a petition to bring attention to climate change, raising awareness through an original comic book hero, and more! Learn all about how their ideas are preserving the environment in this story of five amazing kids everyone should meet! A special section at the back of the book includes extras such as biographies of famous young environmental activists plus interesting ideas for other ways that kids can save the environment. With the You Should Meet series, learning about amazing people has never been so much fun!

With a new sister on the way, Roosevelt Banks has to give up his bedroom and move into the attic, which must be haunted because of all the squeaks and groans coming from the spooky place at the top of the stairs. After his plan to move into a fort in the woods fails, and a ghost-busting exercise goes terribly wrong, Roosevelt—with the help of Tommy, Josh, and Eddie Spaghetti—has to find the courage to defeat the biggest, spookiest ghouls ever and turn the Attic of Doom into a Room with a View.

The second exciting book in the series about boys swept up in the historical fight for freedom Twelve-year-old Will wants to be a drummer in the Union army, but he''s stuck far from the fighting in his sleepy hometown of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. Then the Union and Confederate armies meet in Gettysburg, and Will and his family are caught up in the ferocious fighting. From delivering important messages and helping captured slaves escape Confederate soldiers to even saving a young soldier''s life, Will takes readers on a journey through one of the Civil War''s most significant battles. And when the fighting is finally over, Will witnesses President Lincoln deliver his famous Gettysburg Address, and he knows firsthand the truth behind his words.

The story of Jean Jennings, Kay McNulty, Frances Bilas, Ruth Lichterman, Betty Snyder, and Marlyn Wescoff, who were chosen to work on the ENIAC computer as part of a secret WWII mission.

From the author of "I Grew Up to be President" comes an exciting new book that explores fifty influential and inspirational American women who changed the world. Women have always played an important role in the history of the United States. But before they were women, they were regular girls just like anyone else. So how did these seemingly ordinary girls grow up to be such extradorinary women?In WOMEN WHO CHANGED THE WORLD, you''ll meet fifty of the most influential and inspirational American women who had a lasting impact on our nation and the world. Starting with some of America''s "Founding Mothers" like Pocahontas and Abigail Adams, and continuing up to the present day with game changers like Hillary Clinton, Oprah, and Misty Copeland, the book features a unique and diverse cast from all walks of life. With a mix of photographs and quirky illustrations, Women Who Changed the World is a fun and exciting read that will inspire future generations of leaders for years to come!

Introduces the life and achievements of the surfer who won international fame in four Olympics and used his surfboard to save eight people from a capsized boat in California.

Go behind enemy lines through the eyes of famous four-legged heroes in history''s biggest conflicts. In the first G.I. Dogs book, you''ll meet Judy, a loyal canine soldier who became a World War II POW! Meet Judy: an English Pointer and member of her Majesty''s Royal Navy who served bravely alongside her crew during World War II. When her ship was sunk by the enemy, Judy became the only canine prisoner of war of the Japanese. Join Judy on her incredible journey from puppy to soldier to POW as she narrates her story of survival and heroism. This "dog''s-eye view" takes readers into the heart of the naval action of WWII and will leave you cheering for Judy and her human companions as they overcome countless obstacles and prove time and again why a dog really is man''s best friend.

Blast off into space and get to know Mae Jemison—the first African-American woman to ever go to space—with this fascinating, nonfiction Level 3 Ready-to-Read, part of a new series of biographies about people “you should meet.” Meet Mae Jemison, the first African-American female astronaut! Did you know before Mae was an astronaut, she went to medical school and joined the Peace Corps? But she never forgot her childhood dream to travel to outer space. So in 1985 she applied to NASA’s astronaut training program. On September 12, 1992, Mae flew into space with six other astronauts aboard the space shuttle Endeavour and made history—just like you can if you follow your dreams! A special section at the back of the book includes extras on subjects like history and math, plus a fun timeline filled with interesting trivia facts about space! With the You Should Meet series, learning about historical figures has never been so much fun!

Get to know Shirley Chisholm, the first African American woman to enter the Democratic presidential race, in this fascinating nonfiction Level 3 Ready-to-Read, part of a series of biographies about people “you should meet!” Meet Shirley Chisholm. In 1968, Shirley Chisholm made history as the first African American woman elected to Congress. That same year, Shirley was voted one of the ten most admired women in the world. She also ran for president in 1972, the first African American woman to do so for one of the two big political parties. Shirley showed people it shouldn’t matter if you’re male or female or what the color of your skin is, everyone should be able to pursue their dreams. She lived out her life determined to be “unbossed and unbought” and remained a spokesperson for change. To this day she is still an inspiration to everyone who dreams of breaking boundaries. A special section at the back of the book includes extras like an article on how voting works and a brief lesson on the three branches of US government.

Get to know Ruth Bader Ginsburg, the inspiring Supreme Court justice, in this fascinating nonfiction Level 3 Ready-to-Read, part of a series of biographies about people “you should meet!” Meet Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Also known as the notorious RBG, Ginsburg is only the second female Supreme Court justice in America’s history. She has spent her entire life fighting for equal rights for all, especially women. RBG is a true superhero and young readers are sure to love getting to know her. A special section at the back of the book includes extras like the history of the Supreme Court and how to become a lawyer. With the You Should Meet series, learning about amazing people has never been so much fun!

In this biography, discover the amazing story of Martin Luther King Jr, whose powerful words and dreams for the future inspired the world.Martin Luther King Jr. will always be remembered for his famous "I have a dream" speech, which he gave during the March on Washington in 1963. But his life before and after that big event, and his other enormous contributions to the Civil Rights Movement in the United States, largely go unspoken. In this biography for kids ages 8-11, learn all about MLK - from his early family life and experiences in education, to his untimely death and the worldwide mourning and riots that followed. This new biography series from DK goes beyond the basic facts to tell the true life stories of history''s most interesting people. Full-color photographs and hand-drawn illustrations complement thoughtfully written, age-appropriate text to create an engaging book children will enjoy reading. Definition boxes, information sidebars, maps, inspiring quotes, and other nonfiction text features add depth, and a handy reference section at the back makes this the one biography series every teacher and librarian will want to collect. Each book also includes an author''s introduction letter, a glossary, and an index.

Get to know some of the many groundbreaking and legendary women in US soccer in this fascinating nonfiction Level 3 Ready-to-Read, part of a series of biographies about people “you should meet!” Read about some amazing and unstoppable women who changed soccer in America like Megan Rapinoe, Alex Morgan, Briana Scurry, Trinity Rodman, and Mia Hamm. This book also includes a history of women’s soccer in America and a summary of all four historic World Cup wins.

Get to know Lin-Manuel Miranda, the award-winning creator of Hamilton: An American Musical, in this fascinating nonfiction Level 3 Ready-to-Read, part of a series of biographies about people “you should meet!” Meet Lin-Manuel Miranda! Lin-Manuel is a writer, singer, actor, songwriter, and rapper who created the hit Broadway musicals In the Heights and Hamilton: An American Musical. He was also the cocomposer of Disney’s Moana and is the star of the upcoming film, Mary Poppins Returns, with Emily Blunt. His creativity appeals to children and adults alike and he has already won a Tony, Emmy, Grammy, and a Pulitzer Prize for his work. Learn all about how he grew up and the things he’s accomplished so far in this Level 3 Ready-to-Read that’s perfect for beginning readers. A special section at the back of the book includes extras like the history of Puerto Rico and how to write a play. With the You Should Meet series, learning about historical figures has never been so much fun!

Twelve-year-old Daniel cheered when American colonists dumped English tea into Boston Harbor to protest taxes. But King George sends soldiers to punish the rebellious colonists, and friends turn on one another to protect themselves. Daniel works in the family tavern and spies on Redcoat officers after his father leaves to fight with the Patriots. He soon learns how to slip vital information across British lines to his father and General Washington. He must face his fear and put his life in danger. But, to a Patriot, liberty is well worth any risk.

Misty Copeland was the first African American woman to become a principal ballerina with the American Ballet Theater, Katherine Johnson was a brilliant African American mathematician who made many of NASA''s early missions possible, and Mae Jemison was the first African American woman to ever go to space. Each women faced the odds to achieve their dreams. Learn how they made history! A special section at the back of each book includes extras on subjects like history and math, plus a fun timeline filled with interesting facts about space and dance and potential careers for math lovers! With the You Should Meet series, learning about historical figures has never been so much fun! This inspiring bind-up includes: Misty Copeland Katherine Johnson Mae Jemison.

Discover the thrilling side of the history of famous landmarks and monuments in this fact-tastic, nonfiction Level 3 Ready-to-Read, part of a series about the secrets of American History! Did you know that President Franklin Roosevelt had a secret train station in New York City? Or that there’s a hidden room inside Mount Rushmore? Unearth secrets about these monuments and more in this book about historical places! Secrets of American History is an action-packed nonfiction Level 3 Ready-to-Read series that lets beginning readers in on a little secret: history is full of surprises! Want to know what invisible ink has to do with the American Revolution? Or why shark repellant and inflatable army tanks were used in World War II? Find out in this fact-filled series of fascinating true tales, wild adventures, and spy missions, and discover the secret side of American history! A special section at the back of the book includes Common Core–vetted extras on subjects like science, social studies, and math, and there’s even a fun quiz so readers can test themselves to see what they’ve learned! Learning about history has never been so much fun!

Get to know the first woman to ever run in the Boston Marathon in this fascinating nonfiction Level 3 Ready-to-Read, part of a series of biographies about people “you should meet!” Meet Roberta Gibb. In 1966, Roberta was the first woman ever to run in the Boston Marathon. When Roberta applied for the event she received a letter saying women were not physically able to run marathons and therefore her request was denied. Roberta decided to run anyway, and told her mom, “This is really going to change things for women.” She disguised her appearance with a blue hooded sweatshirt pulled up over her head and her brother’s Bermuda shorts. Instead of being ridiculed, when the men running realized she was a woman, they cheered her on as she became the first woman to ever complete the Boston marathon! A special section at the back of the book includes extras on subjects like history and math, plus exercise and nutrition tips for kids. With the You Should Meet series, learning about historical figures has never been so much fun!

"Meet Jesse Owens, an African American runner who won four gold medals at the 1936 Olympics in Berlin"--Amazon.com.

Describes some of the creative and subversive tactics the United States used to win World War II, including hiring Virginia Hall, the Allied Forces'' most dangerous spy.

Discover the thrilling side of the history of the space race in this fact-tastic, nonfiction Level 3 Ready-to-Read, part of a series about the secrets of American History! Did you know that you can’t bring a sandwich on a spaceship? Or that a group of people who had lost their hearing played an important role in the race to send astronauts to the moon? Find out about those true stories and more in this book about the space race of the 1950s and 1960s. Secrets of American History is an action-packed nonfiction Level 3 Ready-to-Read series that lets beginning readers in on a little secret: history is full of surprises! Want to know what invisible ink has to do with the American Revolution? Or why shark repellant and inflatable army tanks were used in World War II? Find out in this fact-filled series of fascinating true tales, wild adventures, and spy missions, and discover the secret side of American history!

Brief lives of each of the United States presidents.

From the first time a person looked up at the sky and wondered ''What''s out there?" humans have dreamed about exploring the cosmos. About 60 years ago, the first manned spacecraft left Earth''s atmosphere for the first time. In the years since, astronauts have visited the moon several times-and have spent extended time living in outer space. We even have plans to send humans to Mars by the 2030s! Share in the joy of exploration and discovery with Human Missions to Outer Space. ABOUT THE SERIES: This book is part of A True Book series, Space Exploration, that includes the titles Human Missions to Outer Space, Mars Rovers, The International Space Station and UFO''s. The series features the latest NASA imagery and lively text to bring the wonder of space exploarion directly to readers.

This powerful collection of favorite movie moments is readers'' gateway to the most empowering witches of our age! For all the girls as clever as Hermione Granger, as strong as Leta Lestrange, and as fierce as Minerva McGonagall, this incredible compendium is packed with the stories of Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts'' extraordinary heroines! Besides the series'' best-known characters, get to know the female mentors, founders, rule-breakers, and -- yes, even villains like Bellatrix Lestrange and Vinda Rosier -- who made the wizarding world what it is today.Complete with gorgeous, full-color illustrations and photography from iconic movie moments on every spread, fans will love this colorful romp with the most empowering witches of our age. Explore the many ways these women built, enriched, and saved the wizarding world, and get inspired by their stories in this compelling handbook--a must-have for fans!

When the Nazis invade Paris, Michael, a thirteen-year- old French-American, wants to be a part of the Resistance. Starting small, vandalizing Nazi propaganda and refusing to hail Hitler, Michael works his way into the full-blown Resistance, escorting American aviators to safe zones and delivering important spy documents. But when an injured pilot needs help to escape France, will Michael be brave enough to complete the mission? With historical notes, time lines, and maps to augment the page-turning action, it''s easy to see why School Library Journal says Boys of Wartime "will appeal to history buffs and reluctant readers alike."

Between a fabulous promotion, stunning accessories, and celebrity parties, Ashley Albright is the luckiest girl around, but when that all changes Ashley learns that the best fortune might be lurking where she least expects.

Did you know that some of the newest innovations hidden inside your computer, embedded in your DVD player, or parked in your driveway started out as military technology? Join us as we investigate how some of today''s top secret weapons have evolved into high-tech improvements in our daily lives.

"Whether you''re looking for ways to change your hair or boost your grades, redo your room or organize your locker, this book is packed with helpful advice and ideas for looking great, feeling great, and being an even better you!"--Page 4 of cover

Explore 30 years of American Girl® from the BeForever™ characters like Samantha and Melody, all of the Girl of the Year™ line including Lea, and the variety of the TrulyMe™ dolls. American Girl: Ultimate Visual Guide will be a treasured addition to every American Girl fan''s bookshelf, with beautiful imagery and enlightening facts and information about the complete line of American Girl dolls. Featuring a detailed timeline of the company and tons of exclusive behind-the-scenes information, this book takes readers on a wonderful journey from the start of The Pleasant Company all the way through to present day. Did you know American Girl creator Pleasant T. Rowland first described her idea for a line of dolls on a postcard to her friend, Valerie Tripp? Or that it can take two to three years to design a new character? Find out all about your favorite characters and their lives, historical eras, outfits, pets, accessories, and more with the American Girl: Ultimate Visual Guide. © 2016 American Girl. All rights reserved. American Girl and associated trademarks are owned by an used under license from American Girl.

"With images of every BeForeverTM and Girl of the YearTM doll, an expanded section on the TrulyMeTM dolls, a detailed timeline of the company, and tons of exclusive behind-the-scenes information, this book takes readers from the start of The Pleasant Company all the way through to present day"--Amazon website.