The Great Outdoors

It's a great BIG world out there; let's read about it!

Wild Ocean: Sharks, Whales, Rays, and Other Endangered Sea Creatures
Edited by Matt Dembicki
cover art by Steven Russell Black

In this graphic anthology, the author explores the adventures of 12 iconic endangered sea animals: hawksbill turtle, Bluefin tuna, hammerhead shark, giant clam, manatee, blue whale, coral, albatross, whale shark, monk seal, manta ray and seahorse. These gripping stories instill a passion to conserve our magnificent sea creatures. (Fulcrum Publishing, March 2014)

Ages: 10 +

A Trip into Space: An Adventure to the International Space Station
By Lori Haskins Houran;
illustrated by Francisca Marquez

A lively, rhythmical story and detailed illustrations take readers on a trip to the International Space Station, where astronauts work, sleep and walk in space! This great read-aloud includes the latest information (verified by NASA staff) about the ISS. Fact-filled and fun, this story will send young minds soaring. (Albert Whitman & Company, Published 2014)

Ages: 4-7

Baby Bear By Kadir Nelson

Baby Bear is lost and trying to find his way home. As he walks through the forest, he meets other animals who offer wise advice. As each encounter moves Baby Bear farther along on his journey, he gains courage and the comforting feeling that he is loved and never alone. Features poetic text and stunning illustrations. (Balzer + Bray, Jan. 2014)

Ages: 4-8

Larry Gets Lost in Alaska By John Skewes

Learn about the Iditarod, the northern lights, the Kodiak bear and more with Larry the pup. While traveling on a cruise to Alaska, Larry the pup and his owner Pete observe the native wildlife and spectacular scenery of the Alaska coast. But when Larry finds himself on a sea plane ride after chasing down a tasty treat, the dog and his owner must race across Alaska to find each other. (Sasquatch Books, Jan. 2013)

Ages: 3-7

It Can’t Be True!

The moon is the same size as Australia. A blue whale’s heart is as large as a car. It sounds weird, but it’s true! From animals and the human body to buildings and outer space, this quirky book engages the reader with its head-scratching, amazing facts. (DK Children, Sept. 2013)

Ages: 7-12

Creepy Crawlies and the Scientific Method, Second Edition By Sally Kneidel

From monarch butterflies to earthworms, this book shows teachers and parents how to use bugs and other creatures to inspire in kids a passionate enthusiasm for living things and a love of student-led scientific inquiry. In an era of video games and over-structured afternoons, this book will re-ignite children’s ardor for the outdoors. (Fulcrum Publishing, Aug. 2014)

Ages: 10-14

Big Bug Written and illustrated
by Henry Cole

Beginning with a beautiful close-up of a “big” ladybug, this book artfully depicts the concept of scale. The book zooms out from the bug, to a flower, to a cow, all the way to an expansive spread of sky. Young readers will love the lush illustrations of the animals, objects, and scenery of a farm, and they’ll delight in seeing how something “big” can suddenly seem “little” with the turn of a page!
(Little Simon, April 2014)

Ages: 4-7