The titles below are generally recommended for middle school interest levels. Younger students in this age range may also be interested in our juvenile Hi-Lo books while older students may be interested in young adult Hi-Lo books.
These are only recommendations intended to help educators and guardians find titles to evaluate. The TDRL staff has not reviewed every listed Hi-Lo title and has classified the interest level of these materials based on publisher information and reviews. Educators and guardians should use their best judgment on whether specific titles meet the needs of their young people.
The Ghosts of Largo Bay by
Themes: Friendship, Adventure, Supernatural, Science Fiction, Tween, Emergent Reader, Fiction, Chapter Book, Hi-Lo, Hi-Lo Books, Hi-Lo Solutions, High-Low Books, Hi-Low Books, ELL, EL, ESL, Struggling Learner, Struggling Reader, Special Education, SPED, Newcomers, Reading, Learning, Education, Educational, Educational Books. Abby sees a strange blue-green light. Aliens? Electrical storm? Fog warning? She drags bestie Clara out to investigate after bizarre things start happening. Some would call Largo Bay quirky. Others would call it downright strange. To Abby McQuade it's just home. Abby has a big imagination. And her curiosity always leads to trouble. Every adventurer has a sidekick. Holmes had Watson. Batman had Robin. Abby has her bestie, Clara Erickson. Clara is regimented, hyper-scheduled, and disciplined. Abby is ... not. Abby is yin to Clara's yang. Would her bestie be bored without Abby's curious mind? Totally.
Quiz Queens by
Jane has no interest in boys. Her mom, Sherry, has brought home so many creeps over the years that Jane has decided to focus for the next five years on her studies. Her best friend, the boy-crazy Kiara, is obsessed with online quizzes and convinces Jane to help her create a questionnaire that will determine whether muscular Liam or Omar with the cute eyes is her true soul mate. Their friendship is tested when the answers come back with a surprising third option, the quiet and awkward Javier. Jane fails to reveal the results, which leads to some heated words being exchanged and long-held resentments (and possible secret crushes) being revealed. One of the besties will have to swallow her pride to make the first move and try to repair the damage.
Shady Neighbors by
Themes: Overactive Imagination, Fiction, Tween, Emergent Reader, Chapter Book, Hi-Lo, Hi-Lo Books, Hi-Lo Solutions, High-Low Books, Hi-Low Books, ELL, EL, ESL, Struggling Learner, Struggling Reader, Special Education, SPED, Newcomers, Reading, Learning, Education, Educational, Educational Books. The Moore family lives in a neighborhood where people greet new neighbors with fresh baked cookies. But the new people are never home. Marlon's imagination runs wild. He sees lights coming from the back of house in the middle of the night. Then he overhears a loud argument. What's going on with those shady neighbors? Marlon enlists his friends as spies. The boys decide to take a closer look when they notice the front door is unlocked. Then they go in a second time. That's when Ashley, Marlon's sister, catches them. But Marlon is determined to find out why the neighbors are so odd. What's with the digging in the backyard? Why is there no furniture? And what about the yelling? Nothing good could be happening, for sure! Walden Lane is a quintessential small city. And these chapter books describe a typical American family, with busy schedules and the usual problems. The series explores suburban life in a fun way, with topics appropriate for younger readers. These gentle reads are innocent, hopeful, and sometimes funny, with no unsettling surprises or storylines. Each book is 5,000 words (approx.) and 10 chapters.
Behind the Mask by
Themes: Fitting In, Differences, Bullying, Friendship, Fiction, Tween, Emergent Reader, Chapter Book, Hi-Lo, Hi-Lo Books, Hi-Lo Solutions, High-Low Books, Hi-Low Books, ELL, EL, ESL, Struggling Learner, Struggling Reader, Special Education, SPED, Newcomers, Reading, Learning, Education, Educational, Educational Books. Serena is the new girl in town, and she has snagged a cool boyfriend, who seems amazing ... until she learns the truth. White Lightning Books addresses a wide variety of themes and interests in a narrow range of reading levels, no higher than a 2.5. Students who struggle to read will often not recover from low reading achievement in elementary school if their particular interests are not addressed. Encouragement and finding the theme to "hook" them is key. These are not YA or elementary books--a fact younger teens will appreciate. Each book is approximately 100 pages with covers that will appeal to young teen readers. The titles in the White Lightning series are designed in a similar style. Students will know what to expect when they pick up a book: a fast-paced story, mature and age-appropriate topics, short chapters, and achievable reading success.
Death Drop by
On his way to baseball practice, Zeke lines up for Vancouver's newest thrill ride: Death Drop, an elevator that falls faster than gravity. The theme of the ride is based on the story of Persephone, who tumbled into the underworld. Zeke tumbles into a frightening situation himself after he discovers a little girl who is lost. He takes her to the Death Drop manager's office. But later, when he tries to find out what happened with her, the ride's staff say they never saw her! To find the missing girl, Zeke must navigate a devilish plot that includes Dante Gabriel Rossetti's famous painting Proserpine, a fiery drop into flames, and an angry coach.
Emoji of Doom by
Themes: Basketball, Curses, Technology, Science Fiction, Fiction, Tween, Emergent Reader, Chapter Book, Hi-Lo, Hi-Lo Books, Hi-Lo Solutions, High-Low Books, Hi-Low Books, ELL, EL, ESL, Struggling Learner, Struggling Reader, Special Education, SPED, Newcomers, Reading, Learning, Education, Educational, Educational Books. Travis knew he had mad skills on the court. Off the court his life was pretty sweet too. Everything was chill until Travis dissed a chain email. Who believes in that stuff? Forward it immediately? Nah! Oops! Big mistake. White Lightning Books addresses a wide variety of themes and interests in a narrow range of reading levels, no higher than a 2.5. Students who struggle to read will often not recover from low reading achievement in elementary school if their particular interests are not addressed. Encouragement and finding the theme to "hook" them is key. These are not YA or elementary books--a fact younger teens will appreciate. Each book is approximately 100 pages with covers that will appeal to young teen readers. The titles in the White Lightning series are designed in a similar style. Students will know what to expect when they pick up a book: a fast-paced story, mature and age-appropriate topics, short chapters, and achievable reading success.
On the Run by
Themes: Popularity, Murder, Dating, Outcast, Track, Sports, Fugitive, Mystery, Fiction, Tween, Emergent Reader, Chapter Book, Hi-Lo, Hi-Lo Books, Hi-Lo Solutions, High-Low Books, Hi-Low Books, ELL, EL, ESL, Struggling Learner, Struggling Reader, Special Education, SPED, Newcomers, Reading, Learning, Education, Educational, Educational Books. Fugitive High school senior Jack Porter is a track star. During one of his last meets, he asks pretty Becky Mann to the school dance. She's flirty and fun ... until they get to the dance. Then she gives Jack the cold shoulder. He can't figure it out and soon gives up trying. Sometime during the evening, the police show up. There's a body in Jack's car. It's Becky! The officers question and release him only to show up at his house the following morning. Jack flees. He knows he's being framed. Who killed the pretty teen? Fugitive Jack is determined to find out. White Lightning Books addresses a wide variety of themes and interests in a narrow range of reading levels, no higher than a 2.5. Students who struggle to read will often not recover from low reading achievement in elementary school if their particular interests are not addressed. Encouragement and finding the theme to "hook" them is key. These are not YA or elementary books--a fact younger teens will appreciate. Each book is approximately 100 pages with covers that will appeal to young teen readers. The titles in the White Lightning series are designed in a similar style. Students will know what to expect when they pick up a book: a fast-paced story, mature and age-appropriate topics, short chapters, and achievable reading success.
Qwik Cutter by
Themes: Fantasy, Being Late, Respect, Friendship, Schoolwork, Alternate Universe, Science Fiction, Fiction, Tween, Emergent Reader, Chapter Book, Hi-Lo, Hi-Lo Books, Hi-Lo Solutions, High-Low Books, Hi-Low Books, ELL, EL, ESL, Struggling Learner, Struggling Reader, Special Education, SPED, Newcomers, Reading, Learning, Education, Educational, Educational Books. Shawn always runs late. Always. He even turns homework in late but never seems to get in trouble. His grades are great. He's smart. Well liked. Except by Amanda. She's furious that he gets away with everything. They were friends once, but no more. Especially not in their video production class. The class had a big summer assignment. Now it's time to turn it in. Shawn hasn't even begun editing. To cut corners he uses a downloaded freebie app. But it's been hacked. The morning the project is due, he wakes up in an alternate universe. A place where he doesn't exist and nobody recognizes him. Except for Amanda. White Lightning Books addresses a wide variety of themes and interests in a narrow range of reading levels, no higher than a 2.5. Students who struggle to read will often not recover from low reading achievement in elementary school if their particular interests are not addressed. Encouragement and finding the theme to "hook" them is key. These are not YA or elementary books--a fact younger teens will appreciate. Each book is approximately 100 pages with covers that will appeal to young teen readers. The titles in the White Lightning series are designed in a similar style. Students will know what to expect when they pick up a book: a fast-paced story, mature and age-appropriate topics, short chapters, and achievable reading success.
Rebel by
Themes: Africa, Revolution, Violence, War, Child Soldiers, Survival, Historic Fiction, Fiction, Tween, Emergent Reader, Chapter Book, Hi-Lo, Hi-Lo Books, Hi-Lo Solutions, High-Low Books, Hi-Low Books, ELL, EL, ESL, Struggling Learner, Struggling Reader, Special Education, SPED, Newcomers, Reading, Learning, Education, Educational, Educational Books. Koji's world is like any boy's. He loves sports. Goes to school. Studies hard. Dreams big. But childhood ends quickly. Rebel forces enter his village. They ransack the school. Their teacher is beaten. Maybe even killed. The boys line up, guns to their backs. Koji's group goes one way. His best friend's another. What's happened to his family? They are all dead, says a rebel. And you will be too if you don't do what we say. They march for hours. Days. One boy drinks too much water. He is hit again and again. Then murdered. The boys watch and learn. That will not be their fate. It's kill or be killed. So they kill... White Lightning Books addresses a wide variety of themes and interests in a narrow range of reading levels, no higher than a 2.5. Students who struggle to read will often not recover from low reading achievement in elementary school if their particular interests are not addressed. Encouragement and finding the theme to "hook" them is key. These are not YA or elementary books--a fact younger teens will appreciate. Each book is approximately 100 pages with covers that will appeal to young teen readers. The titles in the White Lightning series are designed in a similar style. Students will know what to expect when they pick up a book: a fast-paced story, mature and age-appropriate topics, short chapters, and achievable reading success.
Scratch N' Snitch by
Themes: Popularity, Bullying, Mean Girls, Revenge, Social Media, Cruelty, Fiction, Tween, Emergent Reader, Chapter Book, Hi-Lo, Hi-Lo Books, Hi-Lo Solutions, High-Low Books, Hi-Low Books, ELL, EL, ESL, Struggling Learner, Struggling Reader, Special Education, SPED, Newcomers, Reading, Learning, Education, Educational, Educational Books. Cool girl Mia is perfection. And she knows it. She and her two besties rule the school. They declare what's hot and what's not. And the Scabs are definitely not. They are losers. One of the Scabs accidently cracks Mia's phone. Mia loses her cool. She takes her popularity a step too far and uses her status to bully the girls who ruined her expensive phone. But being queen bee can change in an instant. And it does for Mia when a doctored Instagram post shows her making out with the school dweeb. Mia is floored at how fast she falls. Once the tables are turned, she learns how harsh she's been. White Lightning Books addresses a wide variety of themes and interests in a narrow range of reading levels, no higher than a 2.5. Students who struggle to read will often not recover from low reading achievement in elementary school if their particular interests are not addressed. Encouragement and finding the theme to "hook" them is key. These are not YA or elementary books--a fact younger teens will appreciate. Each book is approximately 100 pages with covers that will appeal to young teen readers. The titles in the White Lightning series are designed in a similar style. Students will know what to expect when they pick up a book: a fast-paced story, mature and age-appropriate topics, short chapters, and achievable reading success.
Under the Stairs by
Themes: Trust, Monsters, Mystery, Friendship, Horror, Fiction, Tween, Emergent Reader, Chapter Book, Hi-Lo, Hi-Lo Books, Hi-Lo Solutions, High-Low Books, Hi-Low Books, ELL, EL, ESL, Struggling Learner, Struggling Reader, Special Education, SPED, Newcomers, Reading, Learning, Education, Educational, Educational Books. Diego's dad buys an old house to flip, previous owners all murdered, Diego's friends find something gross in the basement. White Lightning Books addresses a wide variety of themes and interests in a narrow range of reading levels, no higher than a 2.5. Students who struggle to read will often not recover from low reading achievement in elementary school if their particular interests are not addressed. Encouragement and finding the theme to "hook" them is key. These are not YA or elementary books--a fact younger teens will appreciate. Each book is approximately 100 pages with covers that will appeal to young teen readers. The titles in the White Lightning series are designed in a similar style. Students will know what to expect when they pick up a book: a fast-paced story, mature and age-appropriate topics, short chapters, and achievable reading success.
The Stone Witch by
A witch's curse is making people grow old and turn to stone! Can Mary and Edgar stop the witch before it is too late?
Arena of Monsters by
Zak Nine has been captured and placed in Planet Alcatraz's "Monster Zoo." But this isn't any ordinary zoo. This zoo holds dozens of alien "monsters" who are forced to fight for the entertainment of the prison planet's owners. Zak's friend, Erro, is determined to break into the zoo to rescue the human boy. Erro will need to rely on his Quom survival skills to succeed. Will he be able to find Zak, avoid the zoo's Overseers, and find a way out?
The Canyon of Giants by
Hoping to avoid the Alcatraz guards, Zak Nine and Erro decide to climb down into a deep canyon to hide. But soon the boys see some huge rock formations that move! Zak and Erro are quickly caught by the giant criminals that have been imprisoned in the deep gorge. Some of the giants want to hand the boys over to the Alcatraz guards to gain their own freedom. But a few giants would rather turn the boys into dinner! Will Zak and Erro outwit their captors and get away before becoming the giants' next meal?
Diamonds of Doom by
Traveling by night, Zak Nine and Erro are following a shadowy figure until the mysterious stranger disappears into a cave. The boys decide to follow. Inside they find a maze filled with priceless gems, along with a rough band of escaped criminals. Things go from bad to worse when a squad of Alcatraz guards arrives on the scene. When the guards start shooting their laser blasters, suddenly nobody is safe! Will Zak and Erro escape the deadly storm of laser fire, or will they be trapped in the endless dark forever?
Seven Doors to Death by
As Zak Nine and his friend Erro make their way around a strange lake, they discover an ancient golden building. The boys decide to go inside to take a closer look, but unwittingly stumble into the legendary Octagon: an underground chamber with eight mysterious doors. One door will lead the boys to freedom, but the rest lead to sinister traps and certain death! Will Zak and Erro outwit the deadly room and escape before it's too late?
Terror Wood by
Erro and Zak Nine are hiding in the Phantom Forest, a dark wood filled with giant, towering trees and dangerous beasts. The boys hide high above the ground, climbing and jumping between the tree branches. So far they've avoided dangerous creatures such as huge, hairy rats and giant, bloodthirsty spiders. But a new predator has caught the boys' scent. An enormous flying serpent chases after them and won't stop until its hunger is satisfied! How will Zak and Erro avoid becoming dinner for this deadly new monster?
The Videomaniac by
At a local flea market, thirteen-year-old Brian Hart meets a creepy old man who gives him computer software that can predict future football NFL games. But is the power to see the future really as beneficial as Brian believes?
Back to the Past by
Themes: Friendship, Adventure, Supernatural, Science Fiction, Tween, Emergent Reader, Fiction, Chapter Book, Hi-Lo, Hi-Lo Books, Hi-Lo Solutions, High-Low Books, Hi-Low Books, ELL, EL, ESL, Struggling Learner, Struggling Reader, Special Education, SPED, Newcomers, Reading, Learning, Education, Educational, Educational Books. One day Abby and Clara find a time portal and are swept into the future. No test! No school dance! But then they decide to abuse the portal's power. Some would call Largo Bay quirky. Others would call it downright strange. To Abby McQuade it's just home. Abby has a big imagination. And her curiosity always leads to trouble. Every adventurer has a sidekick. Holmes had Watson. Batman had Robin. Abby has her bestie, Clara Erickson. Clara is regimented, hyper-scheduled, and disciplined. Abby is ... not. Abby is yin to Clara's yang. Would her bestie be bored without Abby's curious mind? Totally.
Destruction Zone by
During a field trip, a school bus takes students on a detour due to road construction. Then another. And another! The bus seems to be driving in circles, as if the streets have become a giant maze. Will the students ever reach their final destination? The addictively creepy SCHOOL BUS OF HORRORS - from Michael Dahl, the bestselling author of LIBRARY OF DOOM - will keep young readers on the edge of their bus seats until the final stop. See a video interview with the author and discover more titles in the series when you scan the book with the free Capstone 4D augmented reality app.
Friday Night Headlights by
After an away game victory, a bus full of football players heads back home. Suddenly, all of the players receive the same message on their phones - an image of a mysterious shadow figure. When the figure appears on the road ahead of them is all hope lost? Or can the team pull out another win? Bestselling author Michael Dahl (LIBRARY OF DOOM and IGOR'S LAB OF FEAR) takes young readers on the ride of their life in this addictively creepy series SCHOOL BUS OF HORRORS! See a video interview with the author and discover more titles in the series when you scan the book with the free Capstone 4D augmented reality app.
Sliding Home by
Miguel hasn't missed El Salvador since arriving in North America with his mother and sister. But with his father still in El Salvador and gangs shaking down the old neighborhood, life isn't easy for Miguel. When his father's situation becomes critical, Miguel becomes desperate to bring him to North America. But he can't even afford to join his baseball team on a road game--how can his family possibly pay his father's way? A solution comes from Miguel's teammate, who proposes a big baseball fundraiser. As the team learns about the hard realities some new immigrant kids face, Miguel and his family learn to trust their neighbors and teammates.
The Squeals on the Bus by
On a morning like any other, a young boy gets on his school bus, but the passengers are anything but ordinary. One student has an extra eye! Another has a tail! And another has lizards for hair! At least his best friend is normal - or is she? Step aboard Michael Dahl's (LIBRARY OF DOOM and IGOR'S LAB OF FEAR) addictively creepy SCHOOL BUS OF HORRORS, where the final destination is never expected. See a video interview with the author and discover more titles in the series when you scan the book with the free Capstone 4D augmented reality app.
Under the Hood by
After a long school day, a young girl falls asleep on her bus, only to be awakened by a monstrous creature. The beast claws at the bus's hood! It rips apart the engine! Can the girl stop the creature before this bus ride becomes a nightmare? Bestselling author Michael Dahl (LIBRARY OF DOOM and IGOR'S LAB OF FEAR) takes young readers on the ride of their life in this addictively creepy series, SCHOOL BUS OF HORRORS! See a video interview with the author and discover more titles in the series when you scan the book with the free Capstone 4D augmented reality app.
Welcome To 4B by
Mila is sent to 4B after a bad first week of school. So far, she already made her teacher cry, and it's only Wednesday. Classroom 4B is full of angry, tough kids who are nothing like her. Mila used to be a happy-go-lucky, popular cheerleader, but that was before she was taken away from her mom and placed with her aunt. That was before moving to a whole new town and whole new school. That was before not being able to talk to her mom while she's in treatment. Mila doesn't want anything to do with the kids in 4B, until she realizes that maybe they all have problems, just like her. Mila may have just found her new friends.
When Zombies Invade by
Chloe, Malik, and Justin have always shared a love of spooky things. They visit the supposedly haunted abandoned railroad station on the edge of their town, and accidentally unlock a portal into a supernatural realm. Their first challenge, zombies! They form the Z Team to try to save their town before the zombies take over.
Ashley's Test by
Themes: Cheating, Bullying, Fiction, Tween, Emergent Reader, Chapter Book, Hi-Lo, Hi-Lo Books, Hi-Lo Solutions, High-Low Books, Hi-Low Books, ELL, EL, ESL, Struggling Learner, Struggling Reader, Special Education, SPED, Newcomers, Reading, Learning, Education, Educational, Educational Books. Ashley Moore is a very busy teen. She's a great student and participates at Walden Lane High School in track, ASB, and the model UN. She loves school and her friends. One day she catches some boys cheating on a calculus test. What should she do? Nothing. But someone tells, and the boys are busted. They think Ashley has turned them in and plot their revenge. One of the boys uses social media to bully her. Her parents want to talk to the principal, but Ashley resists. She wants to solve the problem on her own. If she "kills" them with kindness, the whole thing will blow over. Could she be right? Walden Lane is a quintessential small city. And these chapter books describe a typical American family, with busy schedules and the usual problems. The series explores suburban life in a fun way, with topics appropriate for younger readers. These gentle reads are innocent, hopeful, and sometimes funny, with no unsettling surprises or storylines. Each book is 5,000 words (approx.) and 10 chapters.
The Bet by
Themes: Gaming, Friendship, Fiction, Tween, Emergent Reader, Chapter Book, Hi-Lo, Hi-Lo Books, Hi-Lo Solutions, High-Low Books, Hi-Low Books, ELL, EL, ESL, Struggling Learner, Struggling Reader, Special Education, SPED, Newcomers, Reading, Learning, Education, Educational, Educational Books. Marlon Moore is an eighth grader in Walden Lane. He loves video games. So does his best friend, Steve McCain. Marlon makes a bet. He will outscore his friend in the video game of Clan Castles. The winner gets their pick from the local convenience store. Who can get the higher score? Steve has one rule. Nobody can use a boost, which is a move that allows a player to get out of tough spot. Marlon is so convinced he'll win until he gets in a tough spot and uses the illegal boost ... and then lies about it. Steve is angry. Will Marlon lose his best friend for good? Walden Lane is a quintessential small city. And these chapter books describe a typical American family, with busy schedules and the usual problems. The series explores suburban life in a fun way, with topics appropriate for younger readers. These gentle reads are innocent, hopeful, and sometimes funny, with no unsettling surprises or storylines. Each book is 5,000 words (approx.) and 10 chapters.
Halloween by
Themes: Practical Jokes, Fiction, Tween, Emergent Reader, Chapter Book, Hi-Lo, Hi-Lo Books, Hi-Lo Solutions, High-Low Books, Hi-Low Books, ELL, EL, ESL, Struggling Learner, Struggling Reader, Special Education, SPED, Newcomers, Reading, Learning, Education, Educational, Educational Books. The Moore family takes Halloween very seriously. This year Marlon is sure he can go out without his big sister's supervision. What could happen? The cool kids at the middle school go out alone. Why can't he? Ashley decides to make a bet with Marlon and his best friend, Steve. Can they walk through the graveyard? If they can, she'll back off. But then Ashley suddenly disappears. Left alone in a graveyard, the pair encounter a witch and a headless man. The frightening night just keeps getting worse. Walden Lane is a quintessential small city. And these chapter books describe a typical American family, with busy schedules and the usual problems. The series explores suburban life in a fun way, with topics appropriate for younger readers. These gentle reads are innocent, hopeful, and sometimes funny, with no unsettling surprises or storylines. Each book is 5,000 words (approx.) and 10 chapters.
Medusa's Scream by
Medusa's Scream is a thrill-ride that hurtles a train through an out-of-service gold mine in the Fraser Valley. Chase can't believe his luck when he lands a summer job in the food truck outside the ride's entrance. But then he notices strange things happening at the old mine. Chase starts to piece things together, and soon his life is threatened by a villain even scarier than the snake-headed Medusa of myth.
Missing Money by
Themes: Prejudice, Jealousy, Fiction, Tween, Emergent Reader, Chapter Book, Hi-Lo, Hi-Lo Books, Hi-Lo Solutions, High-Low Books, Hi-Low Books, ELL, EL, ESL, Struggling Learner, Struggling Reader, Special Education, SPED, Newcomers, Reading, Learning, Education, Educational, Educational Books. The eighth graders are excited to go on a school trip. The trip is in no way educational. Marlon and Steve are stoked! They can't wait to ride Viper at Magic Mountain. But then bad news. Someone has broken into the school office. The money for the trip has been stolen. Marlon, Steve, Doug, and Clark are furious and disappointed. The four friends set out to find the money. Who stole it? Was it Tyler Trout, the rich kid? Nah. Why would he take the money? What about Colton Banes, the class troublemaker? He lives in the worst part of town. Marlon learns that looks are deceiving. Walden Lane is a quintessential small city. And these chapter books describe a typical American family, with busy schedules and the usual problems. The series explores suburban life in a fun way, with topics appropriate for younger readers. These gentle reads are innocent, hopeful, and sometimes funny, with no unsettling surprises or storylines. Each book is 5,000 words (approx.) and 10 chapters.
Break and Enter by
Themes: Loneliness, Crime, Single Mothers, Learning the Hard Way, Lying, Fiction, Tween, Emergent Reader, Chapter Book, Hi-Lo, Hi-Lo Books, Hi-Lo Solutions, High-Low Books, Hi-Low Books, ELL, EL, ESL, Struggling Learner, Struggling Reader, Special Education, SPED, Newcomers, Reading, Learning, Education, Educational, Educational Books. Mark just can't settle into his new life. He misses his friends and has trouble connecting with new classmates. Walking through his neighborhood, he sees an open window. Instantly, everything changes. Maybe he can pretend to be someone else and live a different life ... if only for a moment. White Lightning Books addresses a wide variety of themes and interests in a narrow range of reading levels, no higher than a 2.5. Middle school is a time of self-discovery, high energy, and hormonal change. It can also be a time of self-assertion and defiance. Students who struggle to read will often not recover from low reading achievement in elementary school if their particular interests are not addressed. Encouragement and finding the theme to "hook" them is key. There is a broad range of interest and abilities in this age group, even with struggling readers. These are not YA or elementary books a fact younger teens will appreciate. Each book is approximately 100 pages with covers that will appeal to young teen readers. The titles in the White Lightning series are designed in a similar style. Students will know what to expect when they pick up a book: a fast-paced story, mature and age-appropriate topics, short chapters, and achievable reading success.
Bungee Jump by
Thirteen-year-old Chris and his family are setting up a bungee jump in his backyard. It's a real large-scale bungee jump off a bridge that connects his backyard to a small island owned by his family. Not only is it going to be the coolest attraction around, but it also provides Chris with an opportunity to watch a real engineer in action. Chris would be excited about it if things didn't keep going wrong. The rumors of hauntings on the island, once the site of a hospital for children with leprosy, are getting out of control. And there are mysterious mishaps on the bridge. Chris worries that all of these problems will keep customers away. And if the bungee jump isn't a success, his family will lose everything.
Camp Disaster by
Charlotte Summers is sure that summer camp is going to be a disaster. And she's right. But it's not as disastrous for her as it is for her counselor, Abby. Abby has no control over the girls in her charge. The control is held by the cabin's mean girl. Charlotte realizes that she could tip the balance of power and unseat the bully, but does she have the courage to go for it?
The Gateway by
A class field trip to a bog dredges up long-buried drama between Jasmine and her friends. But she's too busy admiring jewelry from her mysterious new boyfriend to pay attention to a little thing like the discovery of a mummified bog body. So what if the bog doubles as a cursed gateway to the undead? No big deal! She might laugh off rumors of a curse, but Jasmine's former best friends are pretty sure she's in the thick of some real danger.
Grand Slam by
Themes: Disability, Learning Differences, Self-Confidence, Tennis, Fiction, Tween, Emergent Reader, Chapter Book, Hi-Lo, Hi-Lo Books, Hi-Lo Solutions, High-Low Books, Hi-Low Books, ELL, EL, ESL, Struggling Learner, Struggling Reader, Special Education, SPED, Newcomers, Reading, Learning, Education, Educational, Educational Books. Brad's truth is that life is hard. He's different. Speaking does not come easily. And words get mixed up no matter how much he pays attention. When he meets Reese, he tries to hide his differences. Brad's a hot varsity tennis player. But will he lose Reese if he doesn't come clean? White Lightning Books addresses a wide variety of themes and interests in a narrow range of reading levels, no higher than a 2.5. Students who struggle to read will often not recover from low reading achievement in elementary school if their particular interests are not addressed. Encouragement and finding the theme to "hook" them is key. These are not YA or elementary books--a fact younger teens will appreciate. Each book is approximately 100 pages with covers that will appeal to young teen readers. The titles in the White Lightning series are designed in a similar style. Students will know what to expect when they pick up a book: a fast-paced story, mature and age-appropriate topics, short chapters, and achievable reading success.
Iggy by
Themes: Divorce, Stepmothers, Social Skills, Expectations, Physical Limitations, Fiction, Tween, Emergent Reader, Chapter Book, Hi-Lo, Hi-Lo Books, Hi-Lo Solutions, High-Low Books, Hi-Low Books, ELL, EL, ESL, Struggling Learner, Struggling Reader, Special Education, SPED, Newcomers, Reading, Learning, Education, Educational, Educational Books. It's the school holiday break, and Iggy is going to Las Vegas to spend time with her dad and stepmom Tiffany. How exciting! Her dad must be planning something big. The Strip. Amusement parks. Thrilling roller coaster rides. But that's not what happens. Iggy is stuck at home in suburbia with Tiffany while her dad works. Then she meets Lucas. His mom is a showgirl, and his dad is an Elvis impersonator. Their house is loud. Colorful. One night Iggy sneaks out and goes with Lucas on an adventure. Her seemingly meek stepmother boldly rescues them when the kids' plan goes awry. White Lightning Books addresses a wide variety of themes and interests in a narrow range of reading levels, no higher than a 2.5. Students who struggle to read will often not recover from low reading achievement in elementary school if their particular interests are not addressed. Encouragement and finding the theme to "hook" them is key. These are not YA or elementary books--a fact younger teens will appreciate. Each book is approximately 100 pages with covers that will appeal to young teen readers. The titles in the White Lightning series are designed in a similar style. Students will know what to expect when they pick up a book: a fast-paced story, mature and age-appropriate topics, short chapters, and achievable reading success.
Radioactive by
Every year Zack and his family spend a week at a Pacific island getaway. The ocean is beautiful, the town is quaint, and the people are easygoing. It's a great place to relax. So why do the locals seem so tense this year? There's definitely trouble in paradise when a tourist goes missing. Local legend has it that the locale is cursed since nuclear testing there in the 1950s. It sounds like fiction, but is it?
Shatterproof by
Thirteen-year-old Nate needs a break from looking after his newly disabled mom. One day when his mom thinks he's at a cross-country meet, he goes to the mall with a friend he's forbidden to have contact with. At the skate shop he sees a new board he can't afford but has to have, and Nate gets talked into running a scam. It turns out Nate looks a lot like a teen TV star filming in the area. So he and his buddy get girls to pay cash to be extras on set. It's all fine until Nate meets a girl he really likes. Nate knows he has to tell her the truth, but he's not sure he has what it takes to come clean.
Summer Camp by
Themes: Friendship, Summer Camp, Mystery, Fiction, Tween, Emergent Reader, Chapter Book, Hi-Lo, Hi-Lo Books, Hi-Lo Solutions, High-Low Books, Hi-Low Books, ELL, EL, ESL, Struggling Learner, Struggling Reader, Special Education, SPED, Newcomers, Reading, Learning, Education, Educational, Educational Books. Derek and his friend get to go to camp, they discover fields of illegal plants that make a dangerous substance, and they meet a pretty girl. White Lightning Books addresses a wide variety of themes and interests in a narrow range of reading levels, no higher than a 2.5. Students who struggle to read will often not recover from low reading achievement in elementary school if their particular interests are not addressed. Encouragement and finding the theme to "hook" them is key. These are not YA or elementary books--a fact younger teens will appreciate. Each book is approximately 100 pages with covers that will appeal to young teen readers. The titles in the White Lightning series are designed in a similar style. Students will know what to expect when they pick up a book: a fast-paced story, mature and age-appropriate topics, short chapters, and achievable reading success.
The Underdogs by
Themes: Girls Tackle Football, Friendship, Teamwork, Fiction, Tween, Emergent Reader, Chapter Book, Hi-Lo, Hi-Lo Books, Hi-Lo Solutions, High-Low Books, Hi-Low Books, ELL, EL, ESL, Struggling Learner, Struggling Reader, Special Education, SPED, Newcomers, Reading, Learning, Education, Educational, Educational Books. Jasmine wants to play tackle football with the boys. They refuse, but their coach says she can play against the boys if she can build a girls' team. White Lightning Books addresses a wide variety of themes and interests in a narrow range of reading levels, no higher than a 2.5. Students who struggle to read will often not recover from low reading achievement in elementary school if their particular interests are not addressed. Encouragement and finding the theme to "hook" them is key. These are not YA or elementary books--a fact younger teens will appreciate. Each book is approximately 100 pages with covers that will appeal to young teen readers. The titles in the White Lightning series are designed in a similar style. Students will know what to expect when they pick up a book: a fast-paced story, mature and age-appropriate topics, short chapters, and achievable reading success.
The Alternative by
Themes: Middle School Girls, Best Friends, Friendship, Bullying, Fiction, Tween, Chapter Book, Hi-Lo, Hi-Lo Books, Hi-Lo Solutions, High-Low Books, Hi-Low Books, ELL, EL, ESL, Struggling Learner, Struggling Reader, Special Education, SPED, Newcomers, Reading, Learning, Education, Educational, Educational Books. Popular Summit Middle School student Brent Bonham and his father, a former Marine, never agree about anything. Brent's dad runs an at-risk program for troubled boys. He never thought his own son would fall into that category. But one day Brent does something he regrets. He's sent to the alternative campus as punishment, suspended from prestigious Summit. Normally this would be a bad thing. But the gorgeous and popular Jessa McCain is also attending. Middle school is the perfect storm of BFFs, frenemies, and mean girls. If you haven't been frozen out, dumped, or betrayed, then you are lucky. Handling drama is never fun, especially when you're alone. But some bonds of friendship are forever. The Summit Middle School series tackles the challenging years before high school.
Betting Game by
Jack's a star player on an elite soccer team along with his brother, Alex. The Lancers are on top of the league, even favored to win the National Championship. But the game's about to change. A slick bookie wins Jack's friendship and introduces him to illegal betting. Before long, Jack is hooked on the adrenaline rush, and early wins convince him that gambling could make him rich. Meanwhile, an ever-widening rift is forming between the two brothers. Suddenly, Jack's "system" fails and his luck runs out. How could a few losses pile up to a gut-kicking ten grand? When he can't pay, the bookie gives Jack one way out--throw the National Championship. But can he betray his brother, his team and himself?
Chick Lister by
Orca Currents are short, fully formed fiction stories published in a narrow hip pocket format. With linear plots and controlled vocabulary and grammar, the books are designed for self-directed reading. They feature compelling stories about real teenagers in normal situations, including themes such as:* Friendship* School* Overcoming challenges* Family issues* Relationships* Bullying* Discrimination* Self-acceptance.Orca Currents are ideal for quick reads, reading programs or ESL/EFL students.Chick is a popular fourteen-year-old who is essentially on this earth to live up to his father's impossible expectations--or, at least, that's how he feels. This pressure is a grinding source of anxiety for him, which he copes with by making lists. He itemizes every aspect of his life, from his daily routine to the things that make him nervous. But as the pressure of school and his budding romance with his debating teammate Audrey builds, his compulsion starts to feel impossible to control--or conceal.
Eye Sore by
Orca Currents are short, fully formed fiction stories published in a narrow hip pocket format. With linear plots and controlled vocabulary and grammar, the books are designed for self-directed reading. They feature compelling stories about real teenagers in normal situations, including themes such as:* Friendship* School* Overcoming challenges* Family issues* Relationships* Bullying* Discrimination* Self-acceptance.Orca Currents are ideal for quick reads, reading programs or ESL/EFL students.The last thing Chaz wants is to spend his summer working on his father's Eye, a Ferris wheel with glass-bottomed gondolas set up to view scenic North Vancouver. For one thing, Chaz would prefer to pursue his own passion: dance in the style of the late, great Gene Kelly. More important, Chaz suffers from vertigo, and even the thought of the Eye makes him want to lose his lunch. But when a crowd of angry protestors and a mysterious vandal threaten his father's dream, and the family's livelihood, Chaz is forced to overcome his own fears to help out.
The House of Memories by
Mr. Blood leaves Mary and Edgar alone in a strange, dark house. The old woman who lives there knows all about them. But what does she want from them?
The Red Thirst by
Mr. Blood and Mary want to hunt a vampire. Edgar is scared. But when the monster attacks, only Edgar can stop it!
Ship of Death by
A ghost ship comes from nowhere. Anyone who goes on board never comes back. Can Mr. Blood stop it before it kills again?
Wolf Trap by
There is a werewolf on the island. Mr. Blood tries to trap it. But who is really the hunter, and who is being hunted?
Return to the Crows by
The peace of the magical Faerieground is being threatened by war, and no one is sure who is on which side. Is Soli becoming a Crow? Where have Lucy and Kheelan been? With friendships at stake and the kingdom in turmoil, will the good faeries prevail over the evil of the Crows?
On the Rocks by
Fourteen-year-old Dylan is sent to live with his estranged grandfather, Angus. Basically strangers, the two avoid each other as best they can. One day Dylan discovers a young orca stranded high up on the rocky beach. Dylan runs to tell his grandfather. There's nothing that can be done, says Angus. The sun is coming up, and soon the orca will die of exposure.But Dylan knows he has to try to save the whale. He collects towels to cover the delicate skin of the orca and begins transporting buckets of water from the ocean below to keep it hydrated. It's grueling work, and it will be hours before the tide comes back in and the water is high enough for the orca to swim free. Angus is moved by his grandson's determination and helps as best he can. They both desperately hope that soon the orca will be able to join its family, who have been calling out to it just offshore.On the Rocksis an inspiring story about the ups and downs of family.
Amy Price for President! by
It's the first day of middle school. Amy Price knows that's the most important day for making an impression on people. With her stutter, Amy has a hard time making friends. She has one dream, to be the class president. If only people could see her as a leader. Amy might be stuck sitting alone at lunch the first day. That is, until she find the Weirdo Table. They are all very different, but Amy finds a friendship in this unlikely place, and perhaps, the courage to launch her presidential campaign.
Death by Airship by
Prince Conn will never be king. And that's just fine with him. He's ninth in line for the pirate throne and is quite happy to sail the skies in his airship with his crew of cheery misfits, plundering as they go. But one by one his siblings are being murdered, in tragic fires, violent cannon attacks or mysterious poisonings. Soon all fingers are pointing toward Conn as the mastermind. To prove his innocence, Conn must make his way to Skull Island, navigating his airship through a gauntlet of villains, explosions and betrayals. Can he reach his father's kingdom before it's too late? Or will he suffer the same fate as the rest of his family?
Embrace the Chicken by
Even though she only left Mumbai a few months ago, Shivani isn't feeling like such an outsider anymore. She likes her new school. She finally has a best friend. But when her mother volunteers for the school's annual fundraiser, Shivani is sure she will completely embarrass her. Especially if she cooks one of the "stinky" dishes that Shivani loves but is too ashamed to eat in front of her friends. On the day of the fair, the moment Shivani walks into the gym she knows her worst fears have come true: the unmistakable scent of Indian spices is in the air. But then she sees that dozens of people are lined up at her mom's stall. It's the most popular one!
Room 555 by
Fourteen-year-old Roonie loves hip-hop almost as much as she loves her grandmother. She cannot wait to compete in her school's dance competition. But as her grandmother's health deteriorates, Roonie becomes more and more reluctant to visit her in the care home. These feelings of guilt and frustration cause Roonie to mess things up with her hip-hop dance partner and best friend, Kira. But while doing some volunteer hours in the hospital geriatric ward, Roonie meets an active senior recovering from a bad fall. Their shared love of dance and the woman's zest for life help Roonie face her fears, make amends with Kira and reconnect with Gram before it's too late.
Tick Tock Terror by
Conor loves to climb. So when the crusty old manager of a thrill ride based on Edgar Allan Poe's "The Pit and the Pendulum" challenges Conor to scale the ride in the dark of night and hide a package at the top, he foolishly accepts. But it isn't long before he realizes that he is now involved in something far more dangerous. What is in the package, and what does it have to do with Edgar Allan Poe? And why is the town bully so terrified of the old man? The more Conor learns, the deeper in trouble he gets.
Freerunner by
14-year-old Patrick and his mother leave their small town for the city. Out of boredom and frustration, he steals a pair of headphones. When he's caught, the police officer, Constable Jack, is willing to get the charges dropped if Patrick trains with him in parkour for twelve weeks. While Patrick trains extra hard he develops a crush on Parker and a rivalry with Jayden. When the tension with Jayden reaches new heights, Constable Jack decides they'll settle the score in a competition. But they aren't just fighting for best individual -- there's also the prize for best club at stake. That means Patrick and Jayden will have to learn to work together.
Grayfields by
Something suspicious is going on at Grayfields Nuclear Power Plant. Tom and Zilla need to find out what. Can they sneak into a camp of anti-nuclear protesters and foil the plans of a Russian spy? It's up to secret agents Tom and Zilla to save the day in time to prevent total mass destruction.
Meet Me on the Court by
Cam, Tyler, and Markus are upset that their school cut the basketball team because of lack of funding. They decide to make their own. They don't have jerseys, a coach, or even a regular court to practice on. There's one more problem, they need at least two more people on the team to play. Can the team find two more players? Can they win their first game against the snooty prep school kids that keep stealing their court?
Milo on Wheels by
Milo doesn't need friends. He's got his journal, which he fills with sketches of plants and animals. When Milo's mom makes him go to the Club, he keeps his distance from the others. That is, until the annual go-kart rally. Milo has used crutches to walk his whole life, but could he be the fastest for once? Milo wants to find out.
Running on Empty by
Everyone expected Leon Kline, anchor for the 4x100 sprint relay, to secure Gilburn High's spot in the record books. But a freak accident on the final stretch changes everything. Suddenly his future is gone. No more running, no scholarship, no college. But then he meets sassy and straight-talking Casey De Vries, and life doesn't look quite so bleak. She even gets him running again. He can't sprint anymore, but he can handle longer distances. As he gets to know Casey better, he realizes that something is not quite right. How can he help her if she won't tell him what's going on?
Shadow by
Fourteen-year-old Preston Craft is organizing a film festival for his school's film club. When one of the films goes missing two days before the festival begins, Preston is convinced it was stolen and is determined to get it back. The only indication of the theft is a suspicious shadow that Preston noticed right before he discovered the film was gone--but Preston is legally blind and no one quite believes him. However, not unlike the gritty private eyes in the classic black-and-white films he adores, Preston refuses to give up. Can he solve the mystery based on such a shady clue?
Taken Away by
Victor, Isaac, Vanessa, and Sara have been taken away from their mother. They've been forced to leave behind their home, school, friends, and worst of all, each other. Vanessa and Sara have been placed in the same foster home, but Victor and Isaac have been separated from their younger siblings and each other. As Victor and Isaac grapple with the many challenges of their new lives, they try to keep in touch through email. Will their messages be enough to get them through the hard times and keep them together?
Unity Club by
Brett is president of her school's Unity Club. When a new group home for at-risk youth opens in the neighborhood, Brett becomes friends with Jude, one of the boys who lives at the home. After a series of acts of vandalism, the community starts demanding that the group home be shut down. Brett doesn't believe that Jude, or any of the other teens, is responsible, but when an elderly woman is seriously injured, Brett begins to have doubts.
Bullies Rule by
Daniel Abel is surprised when, instead of being punished for "pantsing" another eighth-grader, he is invited to become an ambassador of Mountview High at the school's upcoming open house. What he doesn't realize is that he is part of a social experiment on bullying being conducted by the local university. He is a little nervous to learn he will be working with Jeff Kover, a tenth-grader with a reputation for being the biggest bully in the school. Daniel has never thought of himself as a bully. He just likes kidding around. But hanging out with Jeff will change Daniel's perspective on bullying and force him to examine his own behavior.
Camped Out by
Max knows his mom can't afford to send him to summer camp. But he really, really wants to go. He needs a break from looking after his autistic brother, Duncan. And from his mom's new boyfriend. He is surprised when his mom says that he can go after all. But there's a catch. There are spots available at the camp for families with special needs. A grant would cover Duncan's fees, and Max could attend at no charge. If he goes as Duncan's escort. This is the second story featuring Max and Duncan after Maxed Out.
Deadpoint by
Ayla loves climbing. But she prefers to climb indoors, with all her safety harnesses in place and soft mats to land on. Her climbing partner and best friend, Lissy, is much more adventurous and loves the outdoors. When Lissy starts hanging out with Carlos, the new thrill-seeking guy in town, Ayla wants to keep an eye on her and finds herself tagging along on a weekend climbing trip up Black Dog Mountain. But things go very wrong when Lissy and her dad, the only adult in the group, are badly injured high on the side of the mountain. Suddenly the risks of climbing become very real. Ayla and Carlos need to figure out how to get help, and every decision they make could have catastrophic consequences.
Food Freak by
It really seems like Dani's dad has gone around the bend. Ever since Dani's mother died of cancer, all her dad does is stand around on street corners with his crazy signs, proclaiming that processed foods mean the end of the world. The Food Freak, as he is known, has already scared away all of Dani's friends at her old school. But it's a new year, and Dani is at a new school in a different part of town. Maybe things will be better now. Dani just needs to keep her head down and avoid making any friends. That way, nobody will find out about her dad and his insane protests. The plan seems to be working fine until one day Dani meets a boy who helps her see things in a different light.
Gold by
Sam and Annabel are on vacation with Annabel's parents in Italy. While visiting the small hilltop town of Civita, they hear rumors of looted gold from World War II buried somewhere in the town's network of underground tunnels and caves. Once again the two friends cross paths with their old nemesis, Humphrey Battleford, but he is not the only one in pursuit of the gold. An intimidating man named Kurt, the grandson of a ruthless Nazi, is also snooping around. After Annabel is kidnapped, Sam must solve the mystery of the hidden treasure to save his friend. This is the fourth mystery featuring Sam and Annabel, after Stolen, Bonesand Lost.
Jungle Jitters by
Even though he's secretly terrified of deep water and all the scary things that swim below, Tate wants to shake his boring reputation, so he agrees to travel with his class up the Amazon River to help build a village school. He has his fingers and toes crossed that he won't see any giant snakes or hungry piranhas. But there are even scarier things than anacondas lurking in the jungles of South America, and Tate soon learns of the legend of El Tunchi, a vengeful spirit that terrorizes those who harm the rainforest. When creepy things start happening and Tate keeps hearing El Tunchi's haunting whistle, he's sure the group must have angered someone. Or something. He and his friends need to figure out a way to make amends and get out of the jungle alive.
Payback by
Dylan O'Connor is in trouble again. While riding his bike home after dark, he has a run-in with a truck but doesn't give it a second thought until police show up at his door the next day. CCTV cameras put Dylan at the scene of a crime, and when the police question him, Dylan realizes he was an inadvertent witness. But he doesn't tell them the driver of the truck was Jeff Walker, a nasty piece of work. Dylan knows it's in his best interests to keep his mouth shut. Then he starts getting stalked by Jeff's weirdo sidekick, Eliot Barnes, a classmate of Dylan's. Is Eliot trying to protect Dylan, or is he making sure he stays silent? This is the fourth story featuring Dylan O'Connor after The Snowball Effect, Caught in the Act, and Rise of the Zombie Scarecrows.
Plunge by
Cade's dad thinks triathlons are for wimps. He doesn't think it's a real sport and wishes Cade would play football instead, like his older brother, Trent. So Cade trains in secret and qualifies to compete in the provincial championship in Sylvan Lake. The night before the event, Cade's coach suddenly can't go, and Cade is forced to ask his dad for a ride there. He only agrees because Trent has a football game nearby. The road trip takes a nasty turn when his dad swerves to avoid a deer and their car hurtles into an ice-cold river. It's up to Cade to use his skills to save his entire family.
Breakdown by
Maddy's detective mother vanishes while investigating a mysterious disappearance near Pike's Cave. Legend has it that the cave is inhabited by an evil spirit with the power to possess people. Are both disappearances tied to the cave? According to The Atlas of Cursed Places, Maddy and her boyfriend are running out of time to save her mother from the dark power that lurks there.
Centerville by
Basketball-crazy Jake Burnett is thrilled to be leaving home to attend prestigious Centerville Prep. It's an opportunity to pursue his hoop dreams at the highest level. But things aren't quite as advertised at his new school, and Jake soon finds himself struggling both on and off the court. At first, Jake is determined to play harder and ignore the warning signs. Until he discovers that his new head coach is a scam artist, putting kids at risk for his own gain. Now Jake has a difficult choice to make--advance his basketball career or do the right thing.
Deadman Anchor by
A spring break mountain-climbing trip could be a chance for Kendal to connect with her distant father. A little adventure and time together seem like a good idea, but there's one problem: the mountain might be cursed. Soon a father-daughter getaway turns dangerous, and they might not make it to the summit. That's the thing about bonding--you have to be alive to do it.
Director's Cut by
The Sanford's Folly movie set has been abandoned since burning to the ground in the 1980s. Rumor has it the place is cursed after a film shoot gone terribly wrong. But that's not enough to scare Alex and his buddies away. After all, they live on an air force base. There's plenty of real-life stuff that's scarier than some fake western town, right?
The Leggings Revolt by
Eric and his buddies have left behind their all boys school to attend high school with girls. Eager to find his place in this exciting new world, Eric joins the student life committee, unaware that he is expected to enforce the school's strict dress code. The dress code is particularly harsh on the girls he is keen to get to know. Eric finds this awkward, but it's nothing compared to the position he finds himself in when the whole school revolts.
Lost by
Sam and Annabel are pleased when they are selected to take a cruise to the Arctic. And they are thrilled when they learn that the cruise will take them past a site connected to the most famous mystery in Arctic history: the Franklin Expedition. But things on the cruise are not what they seem. When Sam and Annabel make a startling discovery on a small island close to where archaeologists are diving on the wreck of the Erebus, one of the Franklin's ships, they are confronted by an old enemy. Isolated and outnumbered, how can they possibly save the priceless artifact that may hold the answer to the Franklin mystery?
On Cue by
Randi wants to be an actress and is excited about practicing her craft in drama class. So she is devastated to learn the program has been cut. When her friends put together a successful proposal to have drama class taught as an extracurricular activity, Randi is thrilled. Until the reality sinks in. Extracurriculars are scheduled after school, and after school Randi is expected to take care of her special-needs brother. Can Randi find a way to make it all work out?
Taz's Recipe for Life by
Fourteen-year-old Taz knows one thing for sure: she's a perfect disaster in the kitchen. Every time she tries to cook, chaos ensues. After fires, toxins and more than one minor injury, Taz will be happy if she makes it through her food-science class in one piece. But when the class enters a competitive race for a coveted program and Taz is put in a group that expects to win, the pressure is on. As the competition heats up, Taz is desperate to hold her own and not let her team down.
All about My Selfie by
Themes: Middle School Girls, Best Friends, Friendship, Bullying, Fiction, Tween, Chapter Book, Hi-Lo, Hi-Lo Books, Hi-Lo Solutions, High-Low Books, Hi-Low Books, ELL, EL, ESL, Struggling Learner, Struggling Reader, Special Education, SPED, Newcomers, Reading, Learning, Education, Educational, Educational Books. Emma Swanson has always been in the shadows at Summit Middle School. Her family's wealth and power have not helped her win any popularity contests. But Mai and Carson make Emma realize that she doesn't need to be part of the in crowd to be happy. Emma is content to help Elise Mitchell, the school's most popular student, and Carson with Mai's budding music career. But once Emma posts a selfie, and gets a ton of likes, she is hooked. And it becomes all about her. Middle school is the perfect storm of BFFs, frenemies, and mean girls. If you haven't been frozen out, dumped, or betrayed, then you are lucky. Handling drama is never fun, especially when you're alone. But some bonds of friendship are forever. The Summit Middle School series tackles the challenging years before high school.
Bad Business by
Orca Currents are short, fully formed fiction stories published in a narrow hip pocket format. With linear plots and controlled vocabulary and grammar, the books are designed for self-directed reading. They feature compelling stories about real teenagers in normal situations, including themes such as:* Friendship* School* Overcoming challenges* Family issues* Relationships* Bullying* Discrimination* Self-acceptance.Orca Currents are ideal for quick reads, reading programs or ESL/EFL students.Lindy has been working hard cleaning and doing odd jobs around the neighbourhood to earn money for a trip to the Arctic. When Mrs. Naulty, an elderly client, mistakenly pays her a huge amount of money, Lindy keeps it to pay the early-bird rate for her trip. It's only when a schoolmate learns what she did and starts blackmailing her that Lindy starts to suffer for her actions.
The Marsh Demon by
A demon from the marsh is stealing children. Can Mr. Blood stop it? Or will Mary and Edgar be the next victims?
The Most Beautiful Bully by
Themes: Middle School Girls, Best Friends, Friendship, Bullying, Fiction, Tween, Chapter Book, Hi-Lo, Hi-Lo Books, Hi-Lo Solutions, High-Low Books, Hi-Low Books, ELL, EL, ESL, Struggling Learner, Struggling Reader, Special Education, SPED, Newcomers, Reading, Learning, Education, Educational, Educational Books. Handling drama by yourself is never fun. New seventh grade student Carson Roberts learns the hard way not to cross the school bully, beautiful Jessa McCain. And it's only her first day! She's also made two friends in quiet Emma Swanson and shy Mai Pham. But if there's one thing Carson learns, it's that baggage follows you. Middle school is the perfect storm of BFFs, frenemies, and mean girls. If you haven't been frozen out, dumped, or betrayed, then you are lucky. Handing drama is never fun, especially when you're alone. But some bonds of friendship are forever. The Summit Middle School series tackles the challenging years before high school. The newly forged friendship between Carson Roberts, Emma Swanson, and Mai Pham seems unbreakable. The girls have found a kindred spirit in each other. Together, they turn the tables on the most beautiful bully in Texsun City, Jessa McCain. There are no power struggles between these three besties.
Off the Rim by
Dylan's wish comes true when Coach Scott names him to the starting lineup for the Mountview High Hunters' first game of the playoffs. But just when he should be concentrating on basketball, Dylan becomes the target of some off-court aggression. As he's driving his girlfriend, Jenna, home one night, a black pickup truck tries to run them off the road. The police call it an accident. But even as Dylan tries to put it behind him, he has a sense of impending danger that he can't shake. When Jenna starts receiving threats from an anonymous cyberbully telling her to "keep quiet," Dylan becomes seriously concerned about her safety. Jenna has no idea what the cyberbully thinks she knows. But Dylan will have to help her figure it out fast if they're ever going to feel safe again.
Rise of the Zombie Scarecrows by
Orca Currents are short, fully formed fiction stories published in a narrow hip pocket format. With linear plots and controlled vocabulary and grammar, the books are designed for self-directed reading. They feature compelling stories about real teenagers in normal situations, including themes such as:* Friendship* School* Overcoming challenges* Family issues* Relationships* Bullying* Discrimination* Self-acceptance.Orca Currents are ideal for quick reads, reading programs or ESL/EFL students.Dylan is back, and this time he is making a movie, The Rise of the Zombie Scarecrows, with his best friend, Cory, and his girlfriend, Monica. The film is for school credit, and their plan is to film on Halloween. Everything is falling into place until Dylan and Monica encounter a zombie scarecrow that causes Mr. Dalton, a friend of Dylan's grandmother, to have a heart attack. Dylan and Monica learn that a couple of zombie scarecrows are pranking a local neighbourhood. The police shut down Dylan's project until the pranksters are caught. But Dylan is determined to see his film through to completion, no matter what the cost.
Silentious by
Themes: Middle School Girls, Best Friends, Friendship, Bullying, Fiction, Tween, Chapter Book, Hi-Lo, Hi-Lo Books, Hi-Lo Solutions, High-Low Books, Hi-Low Books, ELL, EL, ESL, Struggling Learner, Struggling Reader, Special Education, SPED, Newcomers, Reading, Learning, Education, Educational, Educational Books. Middle school is the perfect storm of BFFs, frenemies, and mean girls. If you haven't been frozen out, dumped, or betrayed, then you are lucky. Handing drama is never fun, especially when you're alone. But some bonds of friendship are forever. The Summit Middle School series tackles the challenging years before high school. The newly forged friendship between Carson Roberts, Emma Swanson, and Mai Pham seems unbreakable. The girls have found a kindred spirit in each other. Together, they turn the tables on the most beautiful bully in Texsun City, Jessa McCain. There are no power struggles between these three besties." Mai Pham cannot wait to return to Summit after the holiday break. She remembers how she used to dread it. School was a lonely place. But now Mai has two besties: Carson and Emma. Ever since Carson showed up, life has been different. Mai's new school ties don't please her dad. Friendships are a distraction. Can Mai prove him wrong?
Three Good Things by
Sometimes it's hard to conjure even one good thing. Leni has lived in so many different places in the last few years that she's not surprised when her mom wakes her in the middle of the night and tells her to pack up her things. The reason for this move? Her mom tells her they have won the lottery, and they have to go underground. Leni is still not surprised when they end up in a filthy motel. But when Leni makes a new friend and tries to explain their lifestyle, she begins to understand just how messed-up her life has become.
Above All Else by
Orca Sports are short, fully formed fiction stories published in a narrow hip pocket format. With linear plots and controlled vocabulary and grammar, the books are designed for self-directed reading. They are not directly about sports, but about active people in high action adventures, including problems such as:* Bribery* Gangs* Injuries* Crime.Solutions require:* Teamwork* Trust* Sports skills* Brains.Orca Sports are ideal for quick reads, reading programs or ESL/EFL students.Del plays striker on his high school soccer team, the Cardinals, and they've gone almost three seasons undefeated. To Del, it's just a game, but some of the players think winning is all that matters. When an ugly tackle results in a major loss for the Cardinals against their main rival, the Rebels, things get heated between the teams. That night, one of Del's teammates has his ankle broken by an unknown assailant, leaving him unable to take part in the playoffs. As Del tries to figure out which of the Rebels' players is responsible for the attack, his coach brings in a substitute player, and he's actually "really" good. Is it just a coincidence, or did someone finally take the "above all else" mentality too far?
Alibi by
Fifteen-year-old Christine is visiting her eccentric great-aunt in historic Witcombe, where a pickpocket has been victimizing tourists. Aunt Maude owns an antique store and also runs the town's ghost walk, which gives Christine the opportunity to meet local characters and visitors, including a mysterious young man who seems to know far too much about the crimes. When the pickpocket targets Aunt Maude's store, Christine is determined to find out who is behind the thefts. Her search takes her through the nooks and crannies of the quaint town full of stories, and she unearths more than one surprise.
The Big Apple Effect by
After a lifetime of New Age "adventures" with her weirdo hippie mom, fifteen-year-old Maddie is realizing a lifelong dream and visiting New York City. Armed with her 130-item to-do list, Maddie hits the streets of New York with her friend Anna and Anna's brother, Thomas. Maddie drags her friends around on an epic quest for the ultimate art-show outfit, oblivious to the fact that they don't share her passion for vintage clothing. Three days into the trip, a most unwelcome surprise--the arrival of Maddie's mother--threatens to derail the entire adventure. As her mother's obsession with dietary trends and fortune-tellers takes center stage, and everyone's tempers get thin, Maddie has to face some ugly facts about how she's been treating her friends.
Bones by
Sam and Annabel are visiting Drumheller, Alberta, where the farmland Sam's mother lives on is host to a dinosaur dig. Annabel, an avid learner, is thrilled to have access to paleontologists and spends as much time as she can near the dig, much to Sam's dismay. But when they learn the dig has uncovered scientifically important bones, even Sam's interest is piqued. In fact, the whole town is talking about the dig. When Sam and Annabel learn that Humphrey Battleford, a famous collector of stolen goods, is in the area, they are on high alert to keep the ancient bones safe.
Cabin Girl by
Sixteen-year-old Bailey is working at her first summer job, as a cabin girl at a fly-in fishing camp at Witch Lake. She struggles with the job at first but enjoys hearing the stories of the area, including the legend of a local ghost. Then April, an older waitress with street smarts, takes Bailey under her wing and the two girls become friends. It's all good until another waitress burns her arm and has to leave. Bailey gets a sudden promotion, and April is asked to help clean the cabins. April becomes far from friendly and Bailey finds herself alone again and messing up on the job--and possibly seeing the ghost.
Hardball by
Baseball season has begun for the South Coast Sharks. As a senior, Griffin has college in his sights and plans to land himself a baseball scholarship. His determination causes him to turn a blind eye to the hazing of new players by the team captain, Wade. But when Griffin senses that his cousin Carson is getting the brunt of Wade's aggression, Griffin finally stands up to him. Soon after, steroids are found in Carson's locker, and he's kicked off the team. Can Griffin stop Wade's reign of terror, prove his cousin's innocence and still stay on track with his baseball dreams?
Hate Mail by
Jordie's cousin Todd has moved back to Montreal and is attending Jordie's high school. Todd has autism and requires an aide. Todd has not been welcomed in the school. He's known as a freak, and even other parents seem to resent Todd's special needs. Jordie does everything he can to distance himself from his cousin, fearful of what his friends might think. When he learns that Todd's whole family is buckling under the pressure of a hateful letter, Jordie starts to question his own behavior. But Todd's resources are unique, and he soon finds a way to prove his worth to his peers and to the community at large. Inspired by real-life events, Hate Mailexamines the transformative power of speaking out against prejudice.
Promise by
Soli, Lucy, and Kheelan are reunited, but now one of them is in danger. Kheelan and Soli are in love, but will they survive? Can Lucy go against her mother? The kingdoms in Faerieground are about to change forever.
Siege by
When Jason agrees to go camping with his cousin Sean, he doesn't picture two weeks at a War of 1812 reenactment camp. But that's where he ends up. The historically accurate camp bans all trappings of modern life, like cell phones and electricity. Jason is not impressed, but they do get to fire muskets, and he secretly likes that, despite the general dorkiness of the camp. And then there's the cute girl who works in the mess tent. And the sneaking around at night getting into trouble, which is fun--until Jason and his friends keep running into a camp counselor who is clearly up to no good. They resolve to find out exactly what the counselor is up to, but they may have taken on more than they can handle.
Underhand by
Fifteen-year-old Nick Carver is tired of living in his older brother's shadow. Markus is the lacrosse team hero, love interest of Nick's longtime crush and now the recipient of a prestigious scholarship from the Philston Weiks Academy. When a mistake at provincials results in Markus's goal being discounted, rumors start going around school that he cheated. Suddenly, Philston Weiks is "rethinking" Markus's scholarship offer. They've also invited other players, including Nick, to try out for Markus's spot. Nick is flattered but conflicted. He's pretty sure his brother didn't cheat. But can he prove it? And if he does, will he ruin his one chance to finally be in the spotlight?