Born in Gary, Indiana, on August 29, 1958, Michael Jackson was definitely not a regular kid. A superstar with The Jackson 5 before he was eight years old, he became the King of Pop as a solo artist. Michael was a creative–yet deeply troubled–genius who always remained devoted to his art right up until his death is 2009 before a much anticipated tour. He had a pitch-perfect voice and footwork that his idol Fred Astaire admired. Who will ever forget the Moonwalk? Kids today who only know Jackson through video performances are nevertheless fascinated by him. Megan Stine provides a sensitive, fair-minded depiction of this unique music legend.
Best known for his epic Lord of the Rings trilogy and The Hobbit, J.R.R. Tolkien was born in British-occupied South Africa. His early life was full of action and adventure. Tolkien spent his childhood roaming the British countryside with his family and could read and write by age four. He was naturally gifted with languages and used this skill as a signals officer in World War I as well as in his fantasy writing. By creating alternate universes and inventing languages in his work he demonstrated that imaginary realms were not just for children. Fondly remembered as the “Father of High Fantasy,” Tolkien’s books have inspired blockbuster movies and legions of fans.
Joan of Arc was born in a small French village during the worst period of the Hundred Years’ War. For generations, France had been besieged by the British. At age 11, Joan began to see religious visions telling her to join forces with the King of France. By the time she was a teenager, she was leading troops into battle in the name of her country. Though she was captured and executed for her beliefs, Joan of Arc became a Catholic saint and has since captured the world’s imagination.
Professor Fiendish’s Book of Diabolical Brainbenders
Criminal mastermind and evil genius Professor Fiendish has finally achieved his ultimate goal-a Murderous Maths book all to himself. and in a desperate attempt to warp the brains of readers everywhere he has filled it with utterly diabolical puzzles. Dare you face the challenge of… *the terrible writhing tongue tank of Fastbuck? *breadsticks at dawn with the gangsters? *the ultimate horror of the bottom of Fiendish’s fridge? Pit your wits against everyone’s favourite arch-enemy and see if you can solve the evil Professor’s brain benders.
The enchanting tale of a magical pot and what happens when it is stolen specially retold for younger children, with humorous illustrations by Mike and Carl Gordon.
