Illinois Authors

Astra Young Readers 2024

In 1934, a man was walking by a lake in the Scottish Highlands when he saw a long-necked creature swimming in the water. He grabbed his camera and snapped a photo. When the photo landed on the front page of the Daily Mail, it shattered the belief that paranormal creatures were pure fiction. But amid the monster-hunting craze, complex conspiracies soon emerged. The Loch Ness Monster became more than a mysterious sea creature—it became a phenomenon that caused people to question their assumptions and dig for the truth. Meticulously researched through primary sources and in-depth interviews with key figures, Loch Ness Uncovered is the fascinating true story of the conspiracy that sparked intrigue worldwide. Complete with archival images, an engaging narrative, and a guide to media literacy, here is a nonfiction book that will transport young readers to the thrilling world of monster mania.

words & pictures 2020

Join the Pilgrims on their perilous journey across the ocean, as they start a new life in North America. This stunning book marks the 400th anniversary of the Mayflower's voyage, with edge-to-edge illustrated scenes, interspersed with detailed maps, inventories and cutaways, along with engaging, narrative text to make this a history book to treasure and pour over time and again. Learn about the perilous journey, the crew and passengers, the cargo on board, and what happened when they finally dropped anchor in Cape Cod. Meet the Wampanoag people and learn about how the Pilgrims' arrival changed their way of life. Atmospheric artwork and detailed scenes will spark your imagination as you discover the amazing true story behind the birth of a nation. Find out as if you were there: Who were the Pilgrims? Why did they want to leave England? Why was the journey so perilous? What was the Mayflower Compact? Who are the Wampanoag? How did the Pilgrims interact with the Wampanoag? What happened at the first Thanksgiving? What became of the Mayflower? This fact-packed children’s book includes a comprehensive timeline of events, an author's note, plus a glossary and ideas for further learning.

Scholastic Focus 2020

A searing look at the birth of America's space program, and the men and women aviators who set its course. In the 1960s, locked in a heated race to launch the first human into space, the United States selected seven superstar test pilots and former military air fighters to NASA's astronaut class -- the Mercury 7. The men endured grueling training and constant media attention for the honor of becoming America's first space heroes. But a group of 13 women -- accomplished air racers, test pilots, and flight instructors -- were enduring those same astronaut tests in secret, hoping to defy social norms and earn a spot among the stars. With thrilling stories of aviation feats, frustrating tales of the fight against sexism, and historical photos, To Fly Among the Stars recounts an incredible era of US innovation, and the audacious hope of the women who took their fight for space flight all the way to Washington, DC.