Escape: The Story of the Great Houdini

Told with verve and humor, Newbery-winner Sid Fleischman recalls his early years in San Diego during the Depression, reveals how he became captivated by magic, theater, and story — all of which influenced the man he grew into.

Annyrose narrates her adventurous saga of life with a Mexican Robin Hood-like bandit as she tries to find her brother who’s off trying to get rich during the California Gold Rush. Part historical fiction, part tall tale, Annyrose is sure to delight readers of all ages.

Twelve-year old Oliver is kidnapped, pressed into service on a pirate ship, and finds adventure that includes outwitting a ghost who guards pirate treasure. Rich language is used in this fast-paced, exhilarating adventure tale.

Three outrageous tales told by Josh McBroom, the farmer of an amazing one-acre farm, are compiled here, just right for reading and laughing out loud: “McBroom Makes Rain,” “McBroom’s Ghost,” and “McBroom’s Zoo.”

A former American soldier stays in post World War II Europe as a ventriloquist, having little success until he meets Avrom Amos. Avrom is really a dybbuk, the ghost of a 12-year old boy killed by Nazis, back now to avenge his own and other children’s deaths.

A cabin boy winds up on an infamous pirate ship called the Giant Rat of Sumatra — and in the middle of the war with Mexico. Swashbuckling adventure moves swiftly along even as the boy yearns to return to New England and pirate Captain Gallows to leave the sea.

Prince Brat is a well-earned nickname; the rude, selfish royal even has a commoner to take his licks which happen daily. The prince decides to run away, taking Jemmy with him where adventures ensue and a friendship evolves. This is reminiscent of Twain’s Prince and the Pauper though clearly for younger readers.