
Traveling to Alaska
Leroy and Esther Stoll wanted to see the remote bush country, beautiful glaciers, wild mountains, treeless tundra, and colorful fishing villages of Alaska, the largest state. They put together a route using public transportation all of the way. This is their story as they traveled by van, bus, train, and ship. Leroy’s writing is sprinkled with historical notes and comments about wildlife, geography, and business in this land of the north. 221 pages; paperback.

Blind Martha
Velina Showalter. When Martha is two years old, the doctor breaks the news that she will someday become blind. Follow Martha as she goes through school, finds a job, and rides a bike to work. Although Martha eventually becomes completely blind and must use a guide dog, she lives on her own independently and joyfully. A nicely illustrated story. Ages 8-12; 47 pages; paperback; TGS International.

Hoover Dam
This is the story of taming the wild Colorado River and the construction of the mighty Hoover Dam. The years of planning, dangerous working conditions, and details of how the dam was built are all explained in interesting text and clear drawings and pictures. Ages 9-15; 44 pages plus a large fold-out; paperback. Proofreader’s note: Two instances of bad language in the “Voices” sections on pages 17 and 28; reference to “millions of years” on page 32.

Three Foolish Sisters
Stories Children Love series, book 15. Three little sisters are walking down the path, pulling a wagon. Their little brother is riding in the wagon. They see an open gate at the edge of the Baron’s land. Do they dare go in? What do they find? What terrible predicament do they get into? How will they find little brother? Suitable for beginning readers. 48 pages; paperback.

Little Pennsylvania Dutch Boy
Little Pennsylvania Dutch Boy Series book 1. This is the true story of seven-year-old Clair, a little boy growing up in Pennsylvania during World War II. Read about how Daddy has to leave to serve in a conscientious objectors’ camp. Listen as Mother explains a “blackout,” witness answers to prayers about things big and small, and feel the joy as the family is reunited. A recipe for traditional Dutch Mennonite food follows each chapter. 96 pages; paperback.

I Survived: Nature Attacks!
This book contains true stories of survival from four different nature attacks. These stories are written for older children and young teens, and the focus is on young survivors. But many adults will also enjoy reading these stories. Included are these four accounts: The Deadly Shark Attacks of 1916; The Great Peshtigo Fire of 1871; A Venomous Box Jellyfish Attack; and The Eruption of Mount Tambora. 166 pages; hardcover.

I Survived: Five Epic Disasters
This book contains true stories of survival written for older children and young teens. Many adults will also enjoy reading these stories. Included are: “The Children’s Blizzard, 1888”; “The Titanic Disaster, 1912”; “The Great Boston Molasses Flood, 1919”; “The Japanese Tsunami, 2011”; and “The Henryville Tornado, 2012.” 166 pages; hardcover.

Born to Die
The setting of this story is Switzerland in the year 1527. Eighteen-year-old Annabelle wants life to continue in the traditional way, happy and undisturbed. But many people are turning away from the state church as a result of seeking the truth about God and the Bible. One by one Annabelle’s own family members are baptized in the Anabaptist faith. All of Annabelle’s beliefs and relationships are shaken, forcing her to consider things she would rather ignore. Will she give in? 119 pages; paperback.

Dolores and the Big Fire
Dolores is a cat. She lives in a house with Kyle. She is scared and timid, so Kyle leaves the lights on at night. But one night she does a brave thing. The house is on fire, so Dolores scratches Kyle’s face to wake him up! Read this story to see how she saves his life, but almost dies herself. Preschool – age 9; 32 pages; paperback.

Thomas Edison
This book tells the story of Thomas Edison’s life, from when he was a young lad inadvisably playing with fire until he became a renowned inventor. This well-researched book tells the story without covering up his problems. His mind and hands were always busy, tackling the next challenge or idea. But his family life suffered, and there were times when the debt was piled high. A good book to learn the history of the late 1800’s and early 1900’s. Middle/upper grades; 203 pages; paperback. Proofreader’s note: One instance of inappropriate language on pp. 183.

Flame and Ashes
Triffie is a rich tomboy who is somewhat spoiled. In 1892, a huge fire burns a large part of her city, St. Johns, Newfoundland. Papa’s shop and their beautiful house are all burned down. Together with the rest of the family, Triffie learns to make do with what they still have, and becomes a more caring person in the process. Ages 9-12; 193 pages; hardcover.

Angus and the Cat
Marjorie Flack. Angus, the little Scottie dog, has learned many things. But he hasn’t learned about cats. Then one day there is a cat lying on the sofa. How fascinating! But when he chases her upstairs it seems she disappears. Where is that cat? Ages preschool-8; 32 pages; paperback; Square Fish.

Betteken’s Refuge
When persecution comes to the city of Antwerp in 1573, Betteken Wens is afraid the priest will find out that her father is an Anabaptist minister. Then Betteken’s mother, Maeyken, is captured and imprisoned for her faith. Her absence leaves a void in the family that cannot be filled, and Betteken wonders if God hears their prayers. Based on an account in Martyrs Mirror. Ages 12 and up; 144 pages; paperback.

Blossoms on the Roof
Amish Frontier Series book 1. Eight-year-old Polly lives with her family on a rented farm in Indiana in 1894. Times are hard, and they can’t afford the rent. But adventurous Father hears of free land available in far-away North Dakota. How will they build a house out on the prairie with no wood nearby? How will they turn the tough prairie grass into bountiful fields of wheat? Where will they get water? Read this story about real pioneering to find out! Ages 8-12; 160 pages; paperback.

Matthew Grady Loves His Enemy
A beautiful book to illustrate the concept of nonresistance to children. A young Mennonite minister and his wife show love to the villagers, and they invite the people to the small church where he preaches. But a priest from another church hates the minister. He has a plan to get him to leave. Read this book to see how God works and how love wins in the end. This story is based on true happenings. Preschool through age 10; 36 pages; hardcover.




