Things have been difficult for Ruby lately. Her dad left long ago, and her mom is so down that she can hardly get out of bed some days, which means it's up to Ruby to take care of her younger brother. As a result, she can't always go to school—and when she does go, she just seems to end up in trouble. And forget about her real dream, learning to skateboard. There will never be money or time for it. But Ruby's life changes when Mister P. floats down one day in a hot air balloon. Though Ruby is at first reluctant to be friends, she can't ignore Mister P.—he is a polar bear, after all! With his silly and gentle polar bear ways, huge heart, and plenty of slapstick humor, he teaches Ruby that she doesn't have to take care of everyone on her own—it's OK to let others help sometimes. Ruby is amazed by the number of people willing to lend a hand, and how even a small amount of support can make a big difference. Full of lively art and fun formatting. Readers will wish for their own polar bear ally!

Fighting for justice can be dangerous. Ruby James has finally made it. As an official Rater, she's reached upper class society and all that comes with it--a huge house in a guarded neighborhood, box seats, and an elite client list. She even has the perfect boyfriend to go with it, one she expects to marry as soon as her career settles. Then she uncovers a terrible secret. One her boss will do anything to protect. Now Ruby must decide how much her dreams truly mean to her. Can she remain silent and keep everything she's worked for, or does she dare risk it all to fight for justice? Ruby's Story is a short in the Numbers Game Saga. As a prequel, it can be read at any point in the series. *Disclaimer: While PG-rated, this book may be a trigger for victims of sexual assault.

Provides instructions for creating unique and reusable gift wrappings from fabric scraps, empty cereal boxes, old book covers, and more.

Drama / Characters: 3m, 6f June 1944. In England, Allied troops are massing for an invasion. On a small farm in Appalachia, a different kind of war is about to rage. Here, Walter and Grace share a home with four daughters: Rose, who struggles to understand why Stan - an immigrant coal miner and the love of her life - abruptly left to join the Polish Free Forces; Helga, who fears for her husband who's in the Army and - like Stan - assigned to a combat unit in England; Frieda, the family's advent