In the Rot & Ruin, it's a matter of death and life. All five books in the action-packed zombie series Booklist calls "an impressive mix of meaning and mayhem" are now available in one paperback boxed set.

In the zombie-infested world Benny has grown up in, teens must work once they turn fifteen. Benny isn't interested in the family business, but he reluctantly agrees to train as a zombie killer with his big brother Tom. He expects a dull job, whacking zoms for cash. What he discovers is a vocation that will teach him what it really means to be human.

This boxed set contains paperback editions of the complete series: Rot & Ruin, Dust & Decay, Flesh & Bone, Fire & Ash, and Bits & Pieces.

In this gentle meditation on the cycle of life, author and illustrator Paloma Valdivia gives us an opportunity to reflect on those who have gone, those who will come, and those of us who are here in this world - for the time being. The neighbor's cat, a favorite aunt or the fish in yesterday's soup have gone - and we may well miss them. At the same time, we celebrate the arrival of a new baby or a litter of playful kittens. It's a mystery where we come from and where we are going, so why not enjoy ourselves while we can? Paloma Valdivia's charming illustrations bring a light touch to this candid contemplation of life and death. Correlates to the Common Core State Standards in English Language Arts: CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.K.1 With prompting and support, ask and answer questions about key details in a text. CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.K.6 With prompting and support, name the author and illustrator of a story and define the role of each in telling the story. CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.K.7 With prompting and support, describe the relationship between illustrations and the story in which they appear (e.g., what moment in a story an illustration depicts).

When Jim returns to school after his dog Muffins' death, the first graders try to share his loss and ease his pain. But Jim refuses to talk or let anyone come near him. He does not participate in any school activities and mopes about, thinking of his beloved dog. However, on the way home from school, Paul cheers up his friend by offering him a slice of pizza and the chance to talk about his dog. Through tears of joy and sadness, Jim finally opens up and shares a sweet memory of Muffins. Miriam Cohen's book deals sensitively with the effect of a favourite pet's death on a child.