| In 2034, medical student Ellen McCarthy took an internship at the mysterious Grindland Institute to fulfill a graduation requirement. But what at first seems like a boring job supervising children soon has her tangled in questions about the Institute’s Resurrection Project. Meanwhile, ER nurse Mamie Simpson is grieving the loss of her daughter, Lainey, and hoping against hope that a new scientific breakthrough will provide a miracle for her and her husband. When Ellen and Mamie's paths eventually cross, both will have to take steps of faith and courage they didn’t think possible to help save the life of a special little girl. |
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The circumstances surrounding the bizarre photograph initially inspiring Meredith Carson to ghostwrite Jack Wagoner’s horrifying account are now included in this audiobook and remain unexplained. When Meredith Carson accepted the task of ghostwriting the frightening narrative you are about to hear, she had no idea how that decision would affect her. Miss Carson shared with other members of the World Codex Staff that, at times, while transcribing Jack Wagoner’s spellbinding story, she felt like Agent Starling from THE SILENCE OF THE LAMBS. Meredith Carson’s unnerving experience documenting Wagoner’s struggle for survival in the Klamath Mountains and the subsequent events is astonishing. -
A heartwarming story of gratitude, and a reminder to enjoy the journey. Travel to a mysterious island alongside Frankie to wish on a magic feather. The path to the hidden feather will only be revealed through patience, wit, and joy. But time is running out, and wishes are only granted on one special day. Dance along with the creatures in this sound-enhanced audio story with a powerful message about what’s important in life. Frankie’s Wish is ideal for children 5-8. It features Frankie (no pronouns), Auntie Duke (she), a dinosaur, a gorilla, and an eagle. Major themes include gratitude, asking for help, friendship, self-affirmation, and believing in yourself. Track 2 includes Ballerina Konora’s suggestions for movement exploration. Kids are invited to re-create the characters’ actions and explore movement fundamentals by twirling, squatting, waddling, balancing, jumping, stretching, reaching, sway, and more. Self-affirmation and gratitude are also encouraged. Frankie’s Wish is the latest Dance-It-Out! imagination journey by Once Upon a Dance, winner of over 40 book awards including Mom’s Choice Gold, Kirkus Reviews Starred Review, and Outstanding Creator Awards Top 10 Author of 2022. -
Ella’s thrilled about her new part but quickly realizes she's only filling in and won’t be performing on stage. This advanced Dance-It-Out! ballet story is ideal for dance students or kids aged 6-9 who have enjoyed other books in the series. Kids are invited to join Ashton and Ballerina Konora practicing steps such as pliés, tendus, rond de jambes, petit battements, and sautés. -
Danika loves ballet. She translates each ordinary aspect of her life into a remarkable dance performance. Ballerina Konora (a professional ballerina) joins the fun with how-to instructions for kids who want to dance along with Danika, Penelope the cat, and their animal friends. -
Grab a scarf and join the fun! Kids will love dancing along with Tammy, Ballerina Konora, and their new friends in this sweet adventure that’s perfect for preschool and kindergarten kids and classrooms. Readers are invited to stretch, spin, jump and more as they act out the journey to find Tammy. Kids can use a scarf as a backpack, a paddle, butterfly wings, a towel, and a pillow to enhance the fun and explore movements, dance fundamentals, and early-learning concepts. -
Dance along with Eka and Ballerina Konora in this interactive adventure story. Eka’s family creates a garden, but Eka worries animals may destroy all their hard work. When playful elephants visit, will Eka find a way to save the vegetables and flowers? -
Leaving Dahomey is set in 1840 in the ancient West Afrikan Kingdom of Dahomey. Our story centers around the people in their everyday lives and occupations, the applique workers, the calabash makers, pottery makers, storytellers, makers of verse, the needleworkers/designers, the smiths, and the cultivators. The story follows a year in the life of a fifteen-year-old hammock-borne, Adeoha Adetoye, and her connection to a Vodun prophecy of a magical oracle that will appear in time. -
Murders overshadow botanist Millie Whitehall’s peaceful summer surveying endangered plants in northwest New Mexico. When autopsy reports show two seemingly unrelated deaths involve plants, Millie must use her knowledge of ecology as she races to identify the murderer – before she becomes the next victim. -
The Crow's Nest is a tale of high adventure, as seen through the eyes of Will Anchor and his sister, Sara, ages 11 and 13, as they set out by canoe on a dangerous mission to find help for their ailing mother.
The year is 2049 and their home is in the drowned and abandoned city of New Orleans. Water levels, worldwide, have risen to unprecedented levels. Civilization, as we know it, has been brought to its knees, yet life struggles on, with promise for the future.
This story depicts an environmental disaster that some scientists predict may actually come to pass. This story is a timely, upbeat, and wholesome adventure. It is a down-to-earth odyssey that takes many twists and turns and is very exciting.
This audiobook has appeal for all ages.
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Self and identity themed books that help children explore the duality of their internal and external nature. The importance of self-esteem and clear communication of the self are explored. These books give the child the opportunity to say: “This is who I am.” -
Welcome to the wonderful world of Kelly Anne Manuel’s Modern-Day Nursery Rhymes. This collection includes all the books in four magical series: The Classics, The Essentials, The Rainbow’s End, and My Name Is. This collection offers a book for each day of the month with messages about permission and encouragement. The books are designed to help children see the world in entertaining and inspiring ways. This experiential collection will become tried and true books for current and future generations. -
Positive self-talk books that kids can pick up anytime. Daily affirmations filled with positivity that encourage independence so children can face their fears and explore their world with the help of animals and the natural world. -
“THE WAY TEDDY” was born as a poem and remains so in this newly minted Book Twelve of Kelly Anne Manuel’s Essentials Series. In this story the Child is invited on a pet walking journey. This journey is full of surprises as the outing unfolds with the pet choosing the path. The narrator realizes that this is a fun and welcome way to spend time outside with the pet. “THE WAY TEDDY” offers a standing invitation to the Child. The Child will learn that spontaneous decisions can lead to fun adventures. The pet has its own ideas which allow for both freedom and adventure. Choices are a main theme that the author embraces in this light hearted story. There is playful approach to making decisions and choices in daily life that is also infused with positivity that will benefit the Child. The simple words take on new meaning as the illustrations pair perfectly with their presentation. The illustrations offer an imaginary setting of pets personified. The story is illuminated by this fun and loving supporting cast of characters. There is discovery in the air as many breeds of dogs and cats interact harmoniously. “THE WAY TEDDY” models the healthy expression of needs for both the pet and the narrator. This is a example of allowing events to unfold naturally and see what positive results are realized. The Child is invited to join the narrator at any time to visit this imaginary community. Wonderful discussions and conversations will be started with this book as a topic. It is in Early Childhood that futures are under major construction. “The Way Teddy” is a tool in a Caregiver’s toolbox to assist with that healthy formation. The author is taking the opportunity to utilize the relationship between pets and their owners as a model for interaction that is mutually beneficial. The Child who reads this book will be rewarded with a journey with pets where easy decisions lead to fun and spontaneous adventure. -
“THE NEED GNOME” was born as a poem and remains so in this newly minted Book Eleven of Kelly Anne Manuel’s Essentials Series. In this story the Child is invited on a journey to meet a mythical creature named the Need Gnome. The Child will engage immediately with the narrator who introduces this unique and mysterious main character. “THE NEED GNOME” offers a standing invitation to the Child. The Child will learn that this character represents a safe space where stating needs is not only accepted but encouraged. This is a story for all times of the day because its theme is a supportive one. There is a positive energy that the Child will feel as a result of the hopeful message that is delivered throughout the book. The simple words take on new meaning as the illustrations pair perfectly with their presentation. The illustrations offer an imaginary setting with animals and gnomes personified. The story is illuminated by this fun and loving supporting cast of characters. There is discovery in the air as bunny rabbits, hedgehogs, and winged mythical friends grace the pages of the book. “THE NEED GNOME” models the healthy expression of inner needs to a support system. The Child is invited to join the narrator at any time to visit this imaginary community. That positive communication is there for the Child to absorb throughout the story. Wonderful discussions and conversations will be started with this book as a topic. It is in Early Childhood that futures are under major construction. “The Need Gnome” is a tool in a Caregiver’s toolbox to assist with that healthy formation. The idea that Children can openly express their needs in a way that is heard, received, and validated is embraced by the author. The Child who reads this book will be rewarded with a journey to an imaginary destination where the Need Gnome is always waiting and ready for a visit. -
“The Inclusive All” was born as a poem and remains so in this newly minted Book Ten of Kelly Anne Manuel’s Essentials Series. In this story the Child is invited on a journey to a magical place. The narrator welcomes the Child on a voyage that is complete with the theme of inclusion throughout. It is a place where peace and harmony reign supreme. “The Inclusive All” offers a standing invitation to the Child. The Child will learn that they can actively engage with literature that is also entertaining. This is a story for all times of day because it is characterized by the freedom of joy and happiness. There is a positive energy that the Child will feel as a result of the hopeful message that is delivered throughout the book. The simple words take on new meaning as the illustrations pair perfectly with their presentation. The illustrations offer a colorful view of beautiful and ethereal scenery. There are so many birds to find that represent the peace of this magical place. Waterfalls, trees, and plants will capture and hold the Child’s attention. “The Inclusive All” allows the Child to see cooperation in the way the animals interact. There is discovery in the air as butterflies, peacocks, and even fish accompany the Child on this unique voyage. The Child is invited to join the narrator at any time to visit this imaginary community. Positive communication is modeled and there for the Child to absorb throughout the story. It is in Early Childhood that futures are under major construction. “The Inclusive All” is a tool in a Caregiver’s toolbox to assist with that healthy formation. The idea that we can learn from observing inclusive environments is a message the author embraces. The Child who reads this book will be rewarded with an imaginary destination that is always ready to welcome their arrival. -
“The Emotion Commotion Locomotion” was born as a poem and remains so in this newly minted Book Four of Kelly Anne Manuel’s Rainbow’s End Series. In this story the Child is invited on a journey to a town where there is a fantastical train. This train has amazing boxcars for the Child to visit in this book. This book is designed to address all kinds of emotions with the help of some furry friends. “The Emotion Commotion Locomotion” offers a standing invitation to the Child. Journey to the tail of a rainbow’s end and see what transportation adventures await. The Child will experience a train where unique feelings are represented in each boxcar. The freedom to experience and then process emotions is a springboard for many discussions for Children of any age. The simple words take on new meaning as the illustrations pair perfectly with their presentation. The illustrations lead the way to an adventure where furry friends represent the feeling expressed in the boxcar. The human likeness of the animals are utilized to capture and keep the Child’s attention. The Child’s imagination will be ignited with possibilities as all manner of images leap off the pages. Children are naturally able to imagine events that are characteristic of a playful youth. In this story the author encourages the Child to actively engage in flexing their imagination muscles while also receiving information about the natural cycles of emotions. These natural cycles are excellent models for life experiences and that is embraced by the author. It is in Early Childhood that futures are being constructed. “The Emotion Commotion Locomotion” is a tool in a Caregiver’s toolbox to assist with that healthy formation. The idea that feelings, thoughts, and emotions are alive and well is an important message that the author wants to relay. The Child who reads this book will be able to relate with, connect to, and enjoy the unique boxcars of this fantastical train. -
“The Tinker Sleep” was born as a poem and remains so in this newly minted Book Eight of Kelly Anne Manuel’s Essentials Series. In this story the Child is invited on a journey into space when the narrator is unable to sleep during the night. An interesting character known as the Tinker Sleep is introduced towards the end of the book and has been created to personify slumber. “The Tinker Sleep” offers a standing invitation to the Child. The Child will learn that if their sleep is interrupted, writing on paper can be helpful. They can use a journal, diary, notebook or pad as a temporary tool to find their way back to sleep. This is a story for all times of the day but really does fit in nicely with a sleep time routine. “The Tinker Sleep” addresses the important issue of a good night’s sleep. The idea that paper and pencil can be helpful once awoken from sleep is a theme the author embraces. The Child will enjoy the rhythm of the words and playful ideas of outer space. The message that great ideas can be found in times of quiet is also supported by the story. It is in Early Childhood that sleep patterns, night time rituals and habits are formed. “The Tinker Sleep” is a tool in a Caregiver’s toolbox to assist with that healthy formation. The idea that Children can learn to self soothe with a hobby such as writing is such an important message. The Child who reads this book will be rewarded with a fun adventure into not only a dream world but a literary one. -
"The Loon Ball" was born as a poem and remains so in this newly minted Book Ten of Kelly Anne Manuel's Childhood Classics. In this story the Child is cordially invited to attend the most amazing, colorful, and inclusive event known as the Loon Ball. The Loon Ball is a magical adventure into a world where anything that they can dream of is possible. "The Loon Ball" engages with the Child immediately with an invitation to an imaginary fantastical event. The narrator guides the Child through all the elements that the Loon Ball encompasses. These elements are colorful, joyful, and playful ideas that come to life for the Child to experience. There is an exciting energy that the story brings right to the Child, wherever they are in their own life journey. The simple words take on new meaning as the illustrations pair perfectly with their presentation. The story is supported with lovely animals that are both real and imaginary. The combination of both is important to the development of the magical theme woven throughout. The Child will be ignited with dreamy possibilities as all manner of images leap off the pages. Children are naturally drawn to stories of journey and adventure. This story provides both. The depth of the message is measured by where the Child is on their own growth journey so it is always age appropriate. The author hopes it will serve as a launch pad for discussions about invitations, events, and relying on oneself for a barometer of inclusiveness. It is in Early Childhood that futures are being constructed. "The Loon Ball" is a tool in a Caregiver's toolbox to assist with that healthy formation. The idea that there are unlimited ways to celebrate events is meant to inspire curiosity. Children's Literature is a wonderful place to allow imagination to fl y to untethered heights. The Child who reads this book will be entertained and encouraged to begin planning the fantastical elements that they would include in their own Loon Ball. -
"The Skate Free" was born as a poem and remains so in this newly minted Book Two of Kelly Anne Manuel's Rainbow's End Series. In this story the Child is invited on a journey to experience an everyday item in a new and exciting way. The item is the wheel and it is shown in a light that will encourage the Child to play creatively with anything that has them attached. This book offers a standing invitation to the Child. Journey to the tail of a rainbow's end and see what fantastical adventures await. In "The Skate Free" the Child will experience a place where wheels are celebrated and enjoyed for the wonderful invention that they are. The message that playing with wheels leads to discovery and freedom is woven into this playful story. The simple words take on new meaning as the illustrations pair perfectly with their presentation. The illustrations lead the way to an adventure where items with wheels are shared for inspiration. The idea that a Skate Free is when anything with wheels finds itself outdoors is meant to encourage time and play in Nature. The Child's imagination will be ignited with possibilities as all manner of images leap off the pages. Children are naturally able to imagine events that are characteristic of a playful youth. In this story the author encourages the Child to actively engage in flexing their imagination muscle while visually stimulated with vehicles, toys, and even a hand truck. Creating a new event for wheeled items is a way to engage the Child's curiosity as well as stimulate conversation. It is in Early Childhood that futures are being constructed. "The Skate Free" is a tool in a Caregiver's toolbox to assist with that healthy formation. The idea that every wheel is an opportunity for fun, function, and fascination is an important message that the author wants to relay. The Child who reads this book will be rewarded with motivation to discover everything the wheel has to offer, especially when it finds itself out a door. -
“My Name Is Wing” was born as a poem and remains so in this newly minted Book Three of Kelly Anne Manuel’s “My Name Is” Series. In this story the Child is invited on a journey into Nature where a discovery is made through observation, vocalization, and communication. The Child discovers a ring who believes itself to be a wing. “My Name Is Wing” begins with a Child in the great outdoors who notices something round in their vision. The Child takes the opportunity to interact, ask questions, and listen actively. The Child will learn that asking questions leads to fun adventures, interesting conversations, and positive outcomes. The simple words take on new meaning as the illustrations pair perfectly with their presentation. The Child will learn that Wing knows who it is at its core. The core values of Wing are excellent models for freedom, self empowerment, and courage. The illustrations capture Nature in an exciting way to hold the Child’s attention while they witness healthy discourse. The wonders of Nature are available and ready for action once the Child actively engages with communication that relates directly to their own observations. Children will experience a light hearted and fun story that will ignite their own imaginations. Why not explore the author’s theory that Childhood is a time of playful fascination as well as learning? This fascination can be enhanced by literature that allows for pretend conversations. It is in Early Childhood that lessons of connection with ourselves and others are learned. “My Name Is Wing” models practical connection skills in a clear and concise manner. The author feels that Children who know what traits and values reside in their core will be self empowered. The Child who reads this book will be rewarded with an adventure where clear communication leads to a positive solution. -
“THE AWAY CAST” was born as a poem and remains so in this newly minted Book Nine of Kelly Anne Manuel’s Childhood Classics. In this story the Child is invited on a journey where the narrator must find courage to take on a new challenge. The Animal Kingdom characters of Bravery and Bolder are called in to assist and model strength for the Child. “The Away Cast” plays on the meanings of the word “cast.” It is used as a term for the cast of a play and also to examine the idea of the fear related to being “cast out.” The story unfolds with the narrator auditioning for a play even though it creates some anxiety and discomfort. The message is that trying new things, even if there is discomfort, can be beneficial in a myriad of ways. The challenge itself is becoming part of a courage cast, so being “cast out” is irrelevant. The simple words take on new meaning as the illustrations pair perfectly with their presentation. The story is supported with scenes from the Animal Kingdom that will spark both imagination and courage to try new things. The Child will be ignited with dreamy possibilities as all manner of images leap off the pages. Children are naturally drawn to stories of journey and adventure. This story provides both. The depth of the message is measured by where the Child is on their own growth journey so it is always age appropriate. The author hopes it will serve as a launch pad for discussions about courage, determination, bravery, and relying on oneself for a barometer of inclusiveness. It is in Early Childhood that futures are being constructed. “The Away Cast” is a tool in a Caregiver’s toolbox to assist with that healthy formation. The idea that being uncomfortable while tackling new and different experiences is normalized. Since it is common the author feels it is important to address it in Children’s Literature. -
“The Library Local” was born as a poem and remains so in this newly minted Book Seven of Kelly Anne Manuel’s Essentials Series. In this story the Child is invited on a fantastical journey to their local library. The adventure that the library offers is brought to life in this story. Magic, creativity, and imagination, are a few elements embodied by libraries and they are celebrated in this book. “The Library Local” offers a standing invitation to the Child. The Child will be invited to investigate the world that libraries create beyond the normal confines of brick and mortar. The narrator engages the Child by describing their own journey and how the discovery of the library brings such joy. The Child has unlimited freedom to decide, dream, and explore, while traveling along with the narrator. The simple words take on new meaning as the illustrations pair perfectly with their presentation. The journey to the library and the library itself are presented without restrictions. It is an opportunity to show the gifts of the library to the curious mind of the Child in a new and unique way. The Child will be ignited with dreamy possibilities as all manner of images leap off the pages. Children are naturally drawn to stories of journey and adventure. This story provides both. The author hopes it will serve as motivation for library visits that support Child Development in numerous arenas. The library is a gift available to all Children who benefit from all the worlds it encompasses in its vast universe. It is in Early Childhood that futures are being constructed. “The Library Local” is a tool in a Caregiver’s toolbox to assist with that healthy formation. The idea that libraries are places of wonder and discovery is a theme the author embraces. The Child who reads this book will be entertained and encouraged to have their own adventures in a Library Local. -
“My Name Is Art Fine” is the newly minted Book Three of Kelly Anne Manuel’s “My Name Is” Series. In this story the Child is invited on a journey where honest discourse and communication result in clarity. The Child and the main character, Art Fine, get to know each other on the pages of story. The Child’s observations are voiced and received while Art Fine does the same. “My Name Is Art Fine” begins with a Child who is curious about who they are encountering. It becomes clear that the Child has questions regarding the information being shared. The Child has the opportunity to use their words in a clear and concise manner. The Child will learn to ask questions and see what fun adventures await when they engage actively in communication. The simple words take on new meaning as the illustrations pair perfectly with their presentation. The Child will notice that the use of the word “fine,” may not be a true representation of what is actually occurring. The story navigates the wide breadth that may exist between what words are used to accurately describe emotions, thoughts, and feelings. Children will experience a light hearted and fun story that will ignite their own imaginations. Why not explore the author’s theory that Childhood is a time to create a rich vocabulary that aligns correctly with thought and purpose? The author intends for the story to spark open dialogue and conversation about whether or not the terms utilized to describe inner and outer worlds match. It is in Early Childhood that we learn how to connect and interact with others. “My Name Is Art Fine” offers a path to these connections that allows for observation, self reflection, and humor. These are excellent tools for a Caregiver’s toolbox to assist with the healthy formation of these skills. The Children who read this book will be rewarded with a fresh view of the word “fine” in all its finery. -
“The Case Suit” was born as a poem and remains so in this newly minted Book Seven of Kelly Anne Manuel’s Childhood Classics. In this story the Child is invited on a journey where packing an imaginary suit case brings new meaning and adventure. It is a game for the Child to engage in with “Pretend” as a character who is always available to join them. “The Case Suit” offers a standing invitation to the Child. The Child will be invited to investigate what the narrator chooses to pack and travel with to any destination imagination can create. The destination is open ended so the Child will participate with curiosity and play. The Child has unlimited freedom to decide, dream, and explore, while traveling along with the narrator. The simple words take on new meaning as the illustrations pair perfectly with their presentation. There is a mix of practical and fantastical elements to visually stimulate curiosity. This active engagement in imagination results in a world rich with creativity for the Child. The Child will be ignited with dreamy possibilities as all manner of images leap off the pages. Children are naturally drawn to stories of journey and adventure. This story provides a balance of structure and a springboard for the Child to be a part of the action. It is a game that can be played at any place and time for entertainment and discussion. This is a story that the author hopes will be enjoyed with humor while considering everything the Child can dream of to pack in their own case suit. It is in Early Childhood that futures are being constructed. “The Case Suit” is a tool in a Caregiver’s toolbox to assist with that healthy formation. The idea that practicality can be set aside while ushering in a world of imagination is a theme the author embraces. The Child who reads this book will benefit from the freedom to dream up any destination with all their Case Suit can hold and more. -
“The Tail Fairy” was born as a poem and remains so in this newly minted Book Four of Kelly Anne Manuel’s Essentials Series. In this story the Child is invited on a humorous journey to experience an entirely fresh and new approach to the traditional fairy tale. The Animal Kingdom is pivotal in demonstrating diverse layers of support to aid in Child Development. “The Tail Fairy” offers a standing invitation to the Child. Journey with the narrator who discovers an enchanting member of the fairy world. The fairy world is meant to be playful, imaginative, and fun. This book supports that theme throughout as a new type of fairy is introduced to the Child. Children are naturally able to imagine events that are characteristic of a playful youth. Why not join the narrator on a discovery mission to find out exactly what a Tail Fairy is? In this story the author encourages the Child to actively engage in flexing their imagination muscle while visually stimulated with furry Animal Kingdom members. It is in Early Childhood that futures are being constructed. “The Tail Fairy” is a tool in a Caregiver’s toolbox to assist with that healthy formation. The idea that there are layers of support for Children that are different than what traditional literature provides is important to the author. The Child who reads this book will discover that not all fairy tales have magical Tail Fairies. -
“The Boots Rain” was born as a poem and remains so in this newly minted Book One of Kelly Anne Manuel’s Rainbow’s End Series. In this story the Child is invited on a journey to experience an entirely new event that the narrator is so eager to share. The narrator describes this fictitious occurrence with such wonder, amazement and vigor, that the Child will naturally join in for the fun. “The Boots Rain” offers a standing invitation to the Child. Journey to the tail of a rainbow’s end and see what fantastical adventures await. In “The Boots Rain” the Child will experience a fun and unique way to look at rain in a different light. The story is meant to be a challenge to the regular idea of rain boots and the author hopes to spark curiosity and discussion. The simple words lead the way to an adventure where considering a different approach to a common event in nature is expected. Children are naturally able to imagine events that are characteristic of a playful youth. Why not join the narrator on a discovery mission to find out exactly what a Boots Rain is? In this story the author invites the Child to actively engage in flexing their imagination muscle. It is in Early Childhood that futures are being constructed. “The Boots Rain” is a tool in a Caregiver’s toolbox to assist with that healthy formation. The idea that every boot that falls in the Boots Rain is unique, individual and one of a kind, is an important message that the author wants to relay. The Child who reads this book will be rewarded with a fantastical insight to what magical events occur at the tail of a rainbow’s end.
