Lost in an ancient land, and chasing a thieving cat. Will Andy ever find his way back? And why is this cat so annoying? For ages 0-5

This is the last issue of the year—which explains why we have a New Year’s story from Elizabeth Elwood (courtesy of Acquiring Editor Barb Goffman). We also have original mysteries from Mark Troy (courtesy of Acquiring Editor Michael Bracken) and Nikki Knight (a new Grace the Hit Mom story), plus a complete short story collection by Edgar Wallace, plus a solve-it-yourself puzzler from Hal Charles. Five classics this time on the science fiction & fantasy front, from some of the great short story writers of the field: Robert F. Young, Jack Sharkey, Harry Harrison, Thomas M. Disch, and August Derleth (one of Derleth’s rare excursions into science fiction, in fact…in this case, a robot story.) Here’s the complete lineup: Mysteries / Suspense / Adventure: “Your Table’s Waiting,” by Mark Troy [Michael Bracken Presents short story] “The Hot Car,” by Hal Charles [Solve-It-Yourself Mystery] “All Decked Out for New Year’s Eve,” by Elizabeth Elwood [Barb Goffman Presents short story] “No Angels Here,” by Nikki Knight [short story, Grace the Hit Mom series] Mrs. William Jones—and Bill, by Edgar Wallace [short story collection] Science Fiction & Fantasy: “Lord of Rays” by Robert F. Young [short story] “The Smart Ones,” by Jack Sharkey [short story] “Down To Earth,” by Harry Harrison [short story] “Utopia? Never!” by Thomas M. Disch [short story] “The Maugham Obsession,” by August Derleth [short story]

Spot the elusive world-traveling Cat hiding in 7 intricately illustrated continent maps, paired with explanatory spreads featuring a selection of the fascinating creatures, people, iconic buildings, and geological features that make each continent unique.

Egyptian civilization, preserved for two thousand years, left a mysterious legacy in the form of human remains, monumental buildings, inscrutable writings, and elaborate tombs. But until recently, Egyptian mummies were considered to be little more than curiousities. Much of our understanding of Egyptian civilization has been gleaned from nineteenth century tomb robbers and twentieth century filmmakers. 'Private Lives of the Pharaohs' highlights the exciting new developments in medical science that are allowing Egyptologists to extract information from mummified Egyptians. Recent scientific advances, including DNA analysis, endoscopy, and CAT scans, are allowing Egyptologists to bring Egypt's dead 'back to life.' The once-hidden evidence extraced from their bones, hair, and rehydrated skin is unlocking the mysteries of the pyramids, showingus the secrets of Tutankahamen's court, and revealing the use of recreational drugs in the royal household. The result is a breathtaking new look at the Pharoahs and their monumental civilization. Renowned Egyptologist Joyce Tyldesley describes the major secrets that forensic scientists have been able to retrieve from Egypt's famed mummies ...

Why were mummies mummified? These mysterious corpses provide a fascinating window on the past of cultures worldwide. Mummies has plenty of ghoulish intrigue to keep young readers reading. This irresistible title provides the solid science behind the myths and guarantees a successful and rewarding reading experience for kids at level 2. Mummies is a compelling combination of fun, facts, jokes and captivating photography. National Geographic supports K-12 educators with ELA Common Core Resources. Visit www.natgeoed.org/commoncore for more information.

Describes mummies, both natural and man-made.

I like bees . . . but I don't like honey!I like my imaginary friend . . . but I don't like it when people say he's not real. A beautifully illustrated, funny and thought-provoking book for building confidence and encouraging children to express their feelings - about anything and everything. This book will help enable a much broader conversation about individuality, fear and hopes.All author royalties are being donated to the NSPCC.

This is a collection of more than 500 annotated book recommendations. Organized around 44 topics considered by the panel to be 'the most frequently requested', this readers' advisory guide for children's literature (includes titles) on everything from dogs and diaries to adventure and science.