A SAKURA MEDAL BOOK 2023 (Chapter Book) A New York Times Notable Book, 2017 A National Public Radio Best Book of 2017 A Publishers Weekly Bestseller A Washington Post Best Book of 2017 A Chicago Public Library Best Book of 2017 A Publishers Weekly Best Book of 2017 San Francisco Chronicle 2017 Gift Guide Los Angeles Times 2017 Gift Guide Autumn 2017 Kids' Indie Next List "Top Pick" Title Winner, E.B. White Read Aloud Award 2018 ALSC/ALA Notable Children's Book Publisher Marketing: The earth is old and we are not, and that is all you must remember . . . Eleven-year-old Willodeen adores creatures of all kinds, but her favorites are the most unlovable beasts in the land: strange beasts known as "screechers." The villagers of Perchance call them pests, even monsters, but Willodeen believes the animals serve a vital role in the complicated web of nature. Lately, though, nature has seemed angry indeed. Perchance has been cursed with fires and mudslides, droughts and fevers, and even the annual migration of hummingbears, a source of local pride and income, has dwindled. For as long as anyone can remember, the tiny animals have overwintered in shimmering bubble nests perched atop blue willow trees, drawing tourists from far and wide. This year, however, not a single hummingbear has returned to Perchance, and no one knows why. When a handmade birthday gift brings unexpected magic to Willodeen and her new friend, Connor, she's determined to speak up for the animals she loves, and perhaps even uncover the answer to the mystery of the missing hummingbears. A timely and timeless tale about our fragile earth, and one girl's fierce determination to make a difference. Author: Katherine Applegate Illustration: Charles Santoso ISBN: 9781250327970 Publisher: Square Fish Binding: Paperback Pub Date: July 30, 2024 Target Age Group: 08 to 12

A SAKURA MEDAL BOOK 2025 (Chapter Book) Publisher Marketing: There are no polar bears left on Bear Island. At least, that's what April's father tells her when his scientific research takes them to a faraway Arctic outpost. But one night, April catches a glimpse of something distinctly bear shaped loping across the horizon. A polar bear who shouldn't be there--who is hungry, lonely and a long way from home. An excellent choice for readers in grades 3 to 7, this fierce celebration of friendship includes full-page black-and-white illustrations throughout, as well as information about the real Bear Island and the plight of the polar bears. Author: Hannah Gold ISBN: 9780063041004 Publisher: HarperCollins Binding: Paperback Pub Date: March 15, 2022 Target Age Group: 08 to 12