Pixie Piper, an ordinary fifth grader, discovers she is a direct descendant of Mother Goose, and she has the magical ability and poetry power to prove it! School Library Journal said this lively and funny twist on a classic character is "recommended for fans of Kathryn Littlewood's Bliss Bakery series and Chris Colfer's The Land of Stories." Fifth grader Pixie Piper has always known she was a little different. She has a wild mop of hair that won't stay put, her best friend is a boy, and to top it all off, she's constantly coming up with rhymes and poems that seem to just pop out of her. Then, when Pixie thinks it can't get any worse, she finds out that she actually is different-she's a descendant of Mother Goose! This surprising and clever novel features family, friendship, poetry, a toilet museum, and just the right amount of magic, as well as a goose, a fox, and a beautiful golden retriever puppy. Rich, multigenerational characters and the real and powerful portrayal of grade-school friendships, with all their ups and downs, distinguish this terrific elementary school story. Kirkus said "middle-grade readers will enjoy this book with its hints of magic, well-limned characters, and that totally appealing gosling." Features black-and-white spot art and poetry throughout.

Of all the gifts under the tree on Christmas Eve, only one captures Marie Stahlbaum's heart: a humble nutcracker. He's a curious little man with kind eyes, sweet red cheeks, and a friendly appearance. And as midnight nears, he comes to life, revealing a fairy-tale world of magic and wonder, wicked princesses and fierce battles . . . and an ancient curse that can only be broken with the help of a true friend. With the evil Mouse King looming and her dream world threatened, Marie will have to find the strength to stand up for her nutcracker - no matter what it takes.