On November 21, 1912, the schooner Rouse Simmons set sail from a small northern Michigan town across Lake Michigan. Affectionately dubbed the "Christmas Tree Ship," this was an annual trek for the Rouse Simmons. With its cargo of Christmas trees, the ship was bound for Chicago. There Captain Herman Scheunemann would sell the trees for 50 cents or $1.00 and even gave many away to needy families. But the schooner never makes its destination. The Rouse Simmons, with all hands and cargo, disappears into the cold waters. The ship's wreckage is not found until 1971. Drawing from stories told by her grandfather, author Carol Crane weaves a fictional tale based on the true events of the doomed schooner. And she explains how the captain's widow went on to continue his tradition of delivering holiday trees to Chicago. Carol Crane's many books for Sleeping Bear Press include the best-selling P is for Pilgrim: A Thanksgiving Alphabet and The Handkerchief Quilt. As a literacy advocate, Carol speaks at schools and conferences. She lives in North Carolina. Chris Ellison has illustrated children's picture books and adult historical fiction for nearly 20 years. His book Let Them Play was a 2006 Notable Social Studies Trade Book for Young People. Chris lives in Mississippi.
Set in the late 1950s, this is the moving story of a young boy whose father operates a ferryboat between Michigan's Upper and Lower peninsulas. As young Mark witnesses the building of the new Mackinac Bridge, he is torn between family loyalty and eager anticipation. He can't help being awestruck by the majesty of the five-mile-long bridge that will connect the two peninsulas and change the lives of so many. But the Mighty Mac will also put Mark's father out of business. As his father struggles with the flow of progress, Mark dreams of future bridges he will build. Details of the complex construction of the bridge will fascinate children as they learn an important part of America's history and come to understand the meaning of change. The Mackinac Bridge Authority provides history notes at the back of the book.
Get answers in this nonfiction storybook to your fascinating questions! Colorful pictures, short sentences, and a small amount of predictable text per page make this book perfect for reluctant and struggling readers. I Wonder Series
Get answers in this nonfiction storybook to your fascinating questions! Colorful pictures, short sentences, and a small amount of predictable text per page make this book perfect for reluctant and struggling readers. I Wonder Series
Find out how these beautiful balloons float through the air and discover what makes them fly.
Explains how bicycles are made from different materials; discusses how bicycles are assembled in a factory; and how bicycles become available to consumers.
In Tunnels, early fluent readers will learn about the engineering that goes into building tunnels and making them safe. Vibrant, full-color photos and carefully leveled text will engage young readers as they explore the built world around them. An infographic illustrates aspects of the Channel Tunnel, and an activity offers kids an opportunity to extend discovery. Children can learn more about tunnels using our safe search engine that provides relevant, age-appropriate websites. Tunnels also features reading tips for teachers and parents, a table of contents, a glossary, and an index.
Trucks equipped with four-wheel drive are able to travel over many difficult kinds of terrain. Readers will explore the history of 4x4 trucks and the technology that makes it possible for them to travel almost anywhere.
A medium-lift assault helicopter, CH-46 Sea Knights are used to deliver heavily armed troops into battle. They are also used on several other missions. Readers will learn about these large helicopters, how they work, and the many missions they perform for the United States Marine Corps.
When there is danger in shallow water, Littoral Combat Ships are called into action. These ships can go in water too shallow for other ships of the United States Navy. Armed with high-tech weapons and carrying helicopters and other aircraft, Littoral Combat Ships can fight any threat. This title introduces the newest craft of the Navy and shows how the technology behind the ships has led to their early success.
Not a sports bike and not a touring motorcycle, standard motorcycles fit the needs of riders who just want to get around town. Students will learn about these cheap, reliable, and easily customizable motorcycles.
Scooters have become a very popular way to get around town over the last fifty years. Students will learn where scooters came from and what kinds of scooters are around today.
Bullet trains originated in Japan. They are the fastest trains on Earth. Young readers will learn about the history of bullet trains, the technology that makes their high speeds possible, and what bullet trains may be like in the future!
Off-road motorcycles have features that make them safe to ride off the pavement. Students will learn about the variety of off-road motorcycles, the parts that allow them to tackle the tough terrain, and the sporting competitions that use off-road motorcycles.
Pocket bikes are a specialized form of mini bike built for racing. Readers will learn how riders control these small motorcycles and the challenges they find in competition.
Loaded with guns, torpedoes, and guided missiles, Arleigh Burke Destroyers are always ready to protect U.S. Navy warships. Young readers will learn how these destroyers use the latest technology to defend the fleet and carry out attack missions.
Describes demolition racing. Readers learn about the vehicles that are raced and then demolished, safety issues, and how to get involved.
Head out on the highway! Touring motorcycles are made for long, cross-country trips. Readers will discover the technology and unique design that make touring motorcycles ideal for long-distance travel.
Supersonic jets travel faster than the speed of sound. These jets are designed to maintain stability and function at very high temperatures. Kids will read about the technology, history, and future of supersonic jets.
High-performance engines make these boats capable of incredible speeds. Young readers will learn how powerboats are designed to reduce wind resistance in their goal of reaching the fastest speed possible.
When there is a search and rescue mission to be done, the HH-60 Pave Hawk gets the call. Fast and maneuverable, Pave Hawks have several tools to help them locate people in need of rescue. Students will learn about the history of the Pave Hawk and how it executes its dangerous rescue missions.
Humvees are versatile vehicles that are able to traverse almost any terrain. They are used to accomplish a variety of missions. Young readers will learn about the development and uses of the Humvee that make it a vital resource for the United States Armed Forces.
Learn basic art techniques and interesting facts while drawing cars. Perfect for illustrated reports.
Explore the building of the Panama Canal and America's involvement through engaging text and detailed illustrations.
Enduro motorcycles are used in races where the rider needs to keep a steady pace through many checkpoints, often over very rough terrain. Students will find out how the construction and technology of an enduro motorcycle helps it complete these races.
