Derek Zobel

If you looked out on your backyard right now, chances are you would see a squirrel. These common little animals are famous for gathering and storing nuts or approaching humans in the hopes of getting something to nibble. Students will learn all about the foods squirrels eat, what they look like, and how they make their homes in our backyards.

Alligators often lurk in swampy waters. They poke their eyes, ears, and nostrils out of the water to sense prey. This book offers children an alligator encounter, bringing the animal's powerful tail and strong jaws up close!

Octopuses are amazing underwater animals! They can change color, walk on their arms, and shoot ink! This title for beginning readers introduces basic facts about octopuses through simple, predictable text and bright photos. Features introduce kinds of octopuses and octopus diets to support the text and engage readers who are new to independent reading.

Pop a wheelie! Motorcycles are exciting vehicles used for many purposes from traveling to racing. Young readers will learn about the different parts of a motorcycle and the various kinds of motorcycles.

A rabbit's teeth never stop growing. A rabbit needs to continually eat and chew to wear them down! Kids will learn what rabbits look like, where they live, and what they need to eat to keep their teeth short.

Hamsters are famous for running on their wheels. But what else do these furry pets like to do? In this title, beginning readers can learn all about the lives and care of these popular first pets through simple, predictable text and vibrant photos. A diagram showcases a hamster home, while labeled photos highlight different kinds of hamsters to engage and support young readers as they practice independent reading.

Deer can run at speeds up to 40 miles per hour and can leap as high as 9 feet. In this introduction to deer, students will learn about the physical features of deer, where they live, and what they eat each season.

Jellyfish float gracefully through oceans around the world. Beginning readers can learn about these fascinating animals through literacy-focused text and vibrant photos. Simple features highlight different species and favorite foods. This colorful title will give students new to independent reading the right start!

Scuttling on the beach or across the seafloor, crabs are ocean animals on the move! This introductory title highlights basic facts about these crustaceans, from what they eat to how they molt. Supportive text filled with sight words pairs with crisp photography to make an easy yet engaging experience for readers who are just starting out. Simple features highlight different species and favorite foods of these ocean creatures in this exciting title....

The planet Mercury has highs around 800 °F and lows around -280 °F. Students will learn about Mercury's discovery, physical characteristics, and the environment that supports these extreme temperatures.