David R. Mastbergen is the author of The Marvels of the Healer series. He was born in the Heartland in the city of Worthington, Minnesota. He was raised in Worthington until he enlisted into the United States Navy and spent the next twenty-plus years servicing his country. Upon retiring from the navy as a chief warrant officer, he spent nine-plus years working for the state of Minnesota. David has a Master of Arts degree in management from the College of St. Scholastica and a Bachelor of Science degree in computer science from Coleman College.

Q: What do you get when you cross Avon Ladies with Charlie’s Angels? A: A world-class intelligence organization run by women who really know their foundation. When Nikki Lanier signs up as a cosmetics rep at Carrie Mae, it’s hardly her idea of a dream job. With a degree in linguistics and a hard-core workout regimen, the twenty-six-year-old redhead once had hopes for a real career. But unemployed and desperate to escape life at home with her nagging mother, she’ll try anything—even selling makeup to housewives. Soon, Nikki learns that the powder and lipstick are simply cover-up for the Carrie Mae Foundation: a secret organization of international espionage and high-tech mascara founded for the purpose of “helping women everywhere.” Whisked off to Thailand with the legendary Carrie Mae agent Val Robinson, Nikki is soon in over her head. Between investigating the abduction of a human rights activist, tracking down a murderous arms dealer, keeping up with her wildly dangerous new partner, and occasionally trying to date a hunk who may or may not be CIA, Nikki has to use all the courage and cosmetic technology she’s got to bring down the bad guys and get out alive. With the support of the colorful Carrie Mae crew, Nikki will overcome even the most harrowing obstacles—including incessant phone calls from her mother—or die trying.

Nikki Grimes is a proud Coretta Scott King Award winner. She has always been intentional about focusing her novels and poetry on the experiences of African Americans just like her. Young readers will get to know a writer who cares about their ability to relate as much as their ability to read.

The third book in the Dyamonde Daniels series, by bestselling author Nikki Grimes, is perfect for fans of the Keena Ford, Judy Moody, and Magnificent Mya Tibbs series and includes illustrations by Coretta Scott King honor winner R. Gregory Christie. Dyamonde really wants red high-top sneakers. Too bad they're so expensive! A classmate tells her it's her mom's job to give her what she needs, but when Dyamonde tries that argument, her mom teaches her a lesson by literally only giving her what she needs. Now Dyamonde is down to almost zero outfits! But then she finds out one of her friends has it much worse, and she's determined to do what she can to help.

Springtime brings crazy adventures to Nikki and her friends Chloe, Zoey, and Brandon.

This lovely book illuminates all the possibilities a day offers—the opportunities and chances that won’t ever come again—and also delivers a gentle message of good stewardship of our planet. Newbery Medal winner Cynthia Rylant’s poetic text, alongside Nikki McClure’s stunning, meticulously crafted cut-paper art, makes this book not only timeless but appealing to all ages, from one to one hundred.

Come embroider alongside admired fabric designer Anna Maria Horner Admired for her luminous palette and innovative patterns, Anna Maria's brand means color and inspiration in the form of fabric, sewing patterns, needlework patterns, books, and friendly instruction. Now, her legion of fans will thrill to the publication of a brand-new addition to her growing library. Anna Maria's Needleworks Notebook gives readers 24 original motifs in a variety of embroidery types, from gridwork to crewel and fine detailed handwork. Readers will long to make projects to embellish their homes and wardrobes. Anna Maria presents each motif in a warm personal notebook-style with inspiration adn advice to turn each motif into a treasured finished piece Offers practical instruction in gridwork, traditional embroidery and crewel, and precise instruction to complete fine detail work Vivid full-color photographs invite you into the creative process Whether you're a beginner or a veteran, the 24 needlework motifs in this beautiful book will transform your home and wardrobe into a collection of unique treasures.