Marcia Amidon Lusted

You may know that the U.K. pop group One Direction broke records when it hit the U.S. music scene. The singers' album Up All Night debuted at number one on the U.S. Billboard charts. But did you know that: • the stars didn't know each other before getting their big break on The X Factor with Simon Cowell? • the band needed 100 security guards for its first performance in Dallas, Texas? • one of the band members has a fear of spoons? Want to...

"Most people have heard of Thomas Edison, Steve Jobs, and Mark Zuckerberg, but how about Daniel Hale Williams, Mae Jemison, and Mary Anderson? The world owes a lot to the unsung heroes of innovation, people who used their ideas to make the world a better place through advances in health, technology, food science, and discovery! In Innovators: The Stories Behind the People Who Shaped the World, readers ages 9 to 12 learn about many inventions, products,...

Each year, more than 7,000 cases are appealed to the US Supreme Court. But only 100 to 150 are accepted. The decisions the Supreme Court makes change the course of US history and shape the country we live in. This title introduces readers to Tinker v. Des Moines, a landmark case that clarified American students' freedom of speech and right to protest in schools. Chapters investigate the court's ruling, including its compelling backstory and appeals...

This title examines the remarkable life of Steve Jobs and his work building the groundbreaking company Apple. Readers will learn about Jobs's background and education, as well as his early career and his time with NeXT Computer and Pixar. Also covered is a look at how Apple operates, its history, and its many innovations, including the iPod, the iPad, and the iPhone. Color photos and informative sidebars accompany easy-to-read, compelling text. Features...

In today's world of economic uncertainty, homelessness is a growing problem for families everywhere. Homelessness can happen with little warning, and when it does occur, it is vital to know what actions to take immediately, and what resources are available. Readers will find practical strategies to follow if they should suddenly find themselves homeless, addressing issues that include how to find shelter, food, and medical care and how to stay in...

While politicians debate whether or not climate change is real, extreme weather rages around the world. Whatever the cause, the effects are real, as evidenced by staggering numbers of displaced people. These climate refugees, through no fault of their own, have meaningful impacts on populations, economies, and even cultural makeup. How can world leaders adapt to these changes? In this fascinating resource, writers from around the world offer their...

This title examines the life of Blake Shelton. Readers will learn about Shelton's childhood, family, education, and rise to fame. Colorful graphics, oversize photos, and informative sidebars accompany easy-to-read, compelling text that explores Shelton's early interest in music and talent in singing and songwriting that led to the release of his albums. Aligned to Common Core Standards and correlated to state standards. Essential Library is an imprint...

Explore diverse landscapes, travel back in time, and discover unique populations, all without leaving your chair! Start your international tour in Spain, land of the Alhambra Palace, flamenco music, the Pyrenees Mountains, and so much more. This colorful, informative book introduces Spain's history, geography, culture, climate, government, economy, and other significant features. Sidebars, maps, fact pages, a glossary, a timeline, historic images...

The War of 1812 and an American victory inspired Francis Scott Key to write his famous poem, "The Star-Spangled Banner," which later became the national anthem of the United States. The events surrounding the war and Key's poem helped establish the American flag as a symbol of patriotism and freedom. Remind readers of our nation's strength and perseverance through engaging historical content, carefully leveled text, and full-color images.

This title examines the role of espionage during World War II, focusing on the extensive training, clever tools, and dangerous missions that enabled spies and saboteurs to contribute to the war effort. Compelling narrative text and well-chosen historical photographs and primary sources make this book perfect for report writing. Features include a glossary, a selected bibliography, websites, source notes, and an index, plus a timeline and essential...