A Touchdown in Reading: An Educator’s Guide to Literacy Instruction

by Kathryn Starke

A Touchdown in Reading is a recommended reading resource that was voted among the “best books to teach kids to read.” This book provides lesson plans, activities, and graphic organizers to meet every single child on his or her own reading journey. The innovative and instructional approaches in this educational resource can be easily implemented into your classroom. It is a recommended resource in elementary school districts and in colleges and universities around the country.

TACKLE READING

by Kathryn Starke

Tackle Reading is a resource that motivates children, supports parents, and inspires teachers and fellow educators to love literacy. This book contains stories written by NFL players, celebrities, and authors who are passionate about reading education. It also includes pieces, lesson plans, activities, and guidance provided by literacy leaders, educators, and organizations dedicated to improve literacy instruction for all children.

• Partner with the NFL and NFL Alumni to present the annual Tackle Reading event, a philanthropic literacy event sponsored by Dr. Seuss Enterprises
• Thousands of copies donated to inner-city elementary schools nationwide thanks to charitable giving and sponsorship

Visit our Tackle Reading page

Visit our Tackle Reading Playbook for Teachers

Torry Holt shares his involvement in the 8th annual 'Tackle Reading' event

Check out our NTD Interview about the 7th annual Tackle Reading event

AMY'S TRAVELS

by Kathryn Starke

Come along with Amy on her wonderful journey to all seven continents on earth. Read about the desert in Asia, the rainforest and jungles of Africa, the mountains in South America, and the cities of Europe. Feel the bitter cold of Antarctica, go on a safari, and meet people around the world who speak different languages. Traveling to brand new places is one of the most exciting ways to learn, and this is a trip you’ll never forget! Based on a true story, this 20th anniversary edition has a Read with the Author experience on the back of the cover. Just click on the QR code to have the author read Amy’s Travels to you whenever you want to listen.

View sample pages from Amy's Travels (pdf, 1.5MB)

Download Amy's Travels Book Guide (pdf, 60KB)

• Amy’s Travels is in schools, homes, and events in over 26 countries on 5 continents.
• Amy’s Travels was recommended as a multicultural title by the California Department of Education.
• Amy’s Travels was turned into a musical by the Latin Ballet of Virginia.

THE BOY WITH THE MAGIC THUMB

by Laura Jacobson, Illustrated by Michael Garland, New York Times best-selling author and illustrator

Follow a shy, young boy on an uplifting journey that teaches the importance of confidence and recognition of inner-strength even in the most overwhelming situations. While his “magic” thumb is a source of comfort in his childhood, his grandmother transforms his thumb-sucking into a unique learning experience. As the boy grows older, he faces new obstacles and slowly begins to realize the power of his own inner-strength that was there all along. The Boy with the Magic Thumb is the perfect story for parents looking to teach their kids about the magic of self- confidence that is always within them.

• A Story Monster approved title
• Bedside Reading book cover award nominee

Learn more and order today at www.lauraajacobson.com

TURTLE WITHOUT A HOME

by Dr. Sharon Gaston and Richard Halttunen

Ted the Turtle searches for the perfect home after his habitat has been polluted. He explores where ants, squirrels, and other animals live in nature. This children's book exposes children to environmental issues, such as turtle conservation, ecosystems, and litter prevention.

• Recognized as a Nature Appreciation title by Skipping Stones Magazine
• Named an environmental read by Virginia Naturally

For ordering information on Turtle Without a Home, please visit their website at www.turtlewithoutahome.com

Learn more about the Two Mice travel series by visiting www.2-mice.com

TWO MICE AT THE EIFFEL TOWER

by Donna Dalton, Illustrated by David Pfendler

A mouse has never visited the top of the Eiffel Tower, let alone two mice. Join Azura and Afrodille as they take a special tour of Paris, France. Azura and Afrodille create a plan to see the entire city from the top of the famous landmark, but will it actually work? Enjoy an adventure that incorporates communication, critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration skills.

TWO MICE IN LONDON

by Donna Dalton, Illustrated by David Pfendler

Enjoy an adventure that takes the two mice from Paris to London to visit the famous sights of Big Ben, The London Eye, and Buckingham Palace.  The two mice are reunited with Madame Bella and have a secret plan to meet the Queen. How will the mice get beyond the guards who protect the Queen’s palace to finally meet her?

TWO MICE IN NEW YORK: A HOLIDAY ADVENTURE

by Donna Dalton, Illustrated by David Pfendler

The star to the New York Rockefeller Christmas Tree is missing. Visitors come from all over the world to see the tree, and without the star, it will not be the same. Join two French mice, Azura and Afrodille, as they map out a plan in New York City to search for the missing star.

TWO MICE ON SAFARI

by Donna Dalton, Illustrated by David Pfendler

The iconic African Baobab tree, also known as the "tree of life," is withering away. From the rich fruit to the dense bark, every part of the tree is a valuable resource for Africa's people and animals. Azura and Afrodille, two adventurous French mice, and Madame Bella embark on a safari adventure to learn more about the African landscape and native animals. Along the way, the three travelers meet Africa's BIG FIVE animals, who lead them to the withering Baobab tree. What magical powers will the animals use to bring the Baobab tree back to life?

TWO MICE IN IRELAND

by Donna Dalton, Illustrated by David Pfendler

Hop on a tour bus with two mice, Afrodille, Azura, and Madame Bella, as they visit the Emerald Isle of Ireland. Enjoy the adventures as the two mice search for a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. Will the two mice meet a leprechaun along their travels? And will the two mice find the mysterious pot of gold? Readers of all ages will not want to miss this adventure filled with facts and fiction to learn more about Ireland's legacy and legends.

TWO MICE IN ITALY

by Donna Dalton, Illustrated by David Pfendler

Enjoy a delicious adventure as Azura and Afrodille travel around the European country of Italy.  They enter a unique food competition requiring them to use communication, collaboration, creativity, critical thinking, and knowledge of Italian culture!  Will the two mice win the competition?   Readers of all ages will not want to miss this tasty title filled with facts and fiction to learn all about Italy’s history and culture.

TWO MICE IN THE BAHAMAS

by Donna Dalton, Illustrated by David Pfendler

Enjoy a colorful and fun adventure as Azura and Afrodille vacation with Madame Bella in beautiful Bahamas. The popular trio visits the animal sanctuary to see the famous pink flamingos, leathery tortoises, and tropical birds. Azura and Afrodille wonder if the state bird of the Bahamas exists in any other color besides pink. Readers of all ages will not want to miss this delightful adventure filled with water activities, animal adventures, and even a once-in-a-lifetime parade.