Lisa A. Crayton – författare

Economic depression is a term frequently heard in the news and an event read about in history class. But what exactly is it? Supporting financial literacy in school and in life, this text breaks down the complicated concept of economic depression into language readers can understand. They will learn how a depression starts, what causes it, how an economy can recover from it, if one is likely in the future, and how an economic depression can affect them directly.

Using explanatory text, photos, and graphics, this book makes it easier for readers to understand the complicated and often controversial topic of globalization by discussing the different types of globalization, how and why it occurs, its effect on people, and what it means in the Internet Age.

This engaging text breaks down the complicated concept of inflation for readers and explains what inflation is, what causes it, its effects on the rest of the economy, and its impact on everyday life.

Toni Morrison has received the Nobel Prize for Literature, the Pulitzer Prize, and many other awards. In order to fully appreciate what this amazing author has accomplished, students must know where she came from, the era in which she grew up, and how these details influenced the major themes, style, and language of her writing. Through critical analysis, excerpts, and direct quotations from Morrison herself, this biography will allow readers to gain a deeper understanding of her work.

Through engaging, easily understood language, readers will learn about the specifics of an economic recession, including the difference between a recession and a depression, what can be done about a recession, how it affects everyday life, and how it will impact their future. This text supports financial literacy and informs teens how to be fiscally responsible in life.

Annually inundated with commercials, news segments, and online articles during tax season, students might be wondering about the intricacies of the American tax system. Designed to prepare readers for the working world, this book will inform them about taxes, including the different types of taxes, why they are needed, their history, where the tax money goes, and how the digital revolution has affected taxes.

Engaging text breaks down the complicated subject of the stock market and explains what it is, its history, what really happens on Wall Street, and how it can affect readers personally. Students will gain valuable fiscal knowledge that will serve them well in school and in life.

This captivating and inspirational volume of biographies celebrates the lives of those who railed against slavery. Beginning with an overview of the institution, the narrative turns to biographical examinations of escaped slaves turned social activists, supporters of the Underground Railroad, political activists, journalists, and militant advocates. Readers will understand how the brave contributions of these individuals helped bring about the end of slavery in America.

Born in England and raised by a progressive father, an abolitionist who also believed women were equal to men, Elizabeth Blackwell is famous for becoming America’s first woman doctor. But her story is far more complex. Students will be interested to learn that Blackwell was denied the ability to practice medicine, simply because she was a woman. Her insistence on breaking barriers, as well as opening doors for other women, will teach students the importance of perseverance, and excerpts from primary sources, images, and sidebars will enrich the reader’s experience.

Growing up poor in a small town in Georgia, Alice Walker became aware of the effects of prejudice and segregation at a young age. She would later call on these early experiences when writing her most famous novel, The Color Purple. But the themes of Walker’s prose and poetry extend far beyond race, including women’s issues, religion, relationships, and culture. This text explores the many themes of her work, as well as her use of characterization, literary devices, and plot. Through biographical information, quotes from the author, excerpts from texts, and critical analysis, readers will obtain a strong appreciation for the life and works of this controversial and esteemed author.

Through Reverend Martin Luther King Jr.'s words and Bible verses, kids will discover that Dr. King's Christian faith was the foundation for his activism and that God calls us to stand up for justice and love. This illustrated children's devotional will inspire the next generation with the passion of Dr. King, America's greatest Black leader, and equip them to make a difference for God, both today and tomorrow.Through Dr. King's timeless words, children ages 8 to 12 will be challenged and inspired to"drive out darkness" with light and love;go to the Bible for the truth about evil, love, identity, and responsibility;respect the Creator-given human dignity in everyone;build relationships across boundaries and spread kindness in all communities; andstand for God's truth about themselves and others.This 60-day devotional for older children includesa short biography of Dr. King that focuses on his belief in God's Word as the basis of his activism;60 devotions written just for kids, each featuring Scripture, a quote from Dr. King, and a challenge to live out the truth;inspiring stories of young participants of the civil rights movement of the 1950s and 1960s; anda presentation page for commemorating gifting occasions and a source list for further exploration.Today's children are passionate about social justice and want to be change makers. This devotional shows kids that following Christ is an essential element of the fight for justice and empowers them to actively live out their faith."If we are to go forward, if we are to make this a better world in which to live, we've got to go back. . . . We've got to go back and rediscover the principle that there is a God behind the process." --Martin Luther King Jr.

Through Reverend Martin Luther King Jr.''s words and Bible verses, kids will discover that Dr. King''s Christian faith was the foundation for his activism and that God calls us to stand up for justice and love. This illustrated children''s devotional will inspire the next generation with the passion of Dr. King, America''s greatest Black leader, and equip them to make a difference for God, both today and tomorrow.

Through Dr. King''s timeless words, children ages 8 to 12 will be challenged and inspired to

"drive out darkness" with light and love;go to the Bible for the truth about evil, love, identity, and responsibility;respect the Creator-given human dignity in everyone;build relationships across boundaries and spread kindness in all communities; andstand for God''s truth about themselves and others.

This 60-day devotional for older children includes

a short biography of Dr. King that focuses on his belief in God''s Word as the basis of his activism;60 devotions written just for kids, each featuring Scripture, a quote from Dr. King, and a challenge to live out the truth;inspiring stories of young participants of the civil rights movement of the 1950s and 1960s; anda presentation page for commemorating gifting occasions and a source list for further exploration.

Today''s children are passionate about social justice and want to be change makers. This devotional shows kids that following Christ is an essential element of the fight for justice and empowers them to actively live out their faith.

"If we are to go forward, if we are to make this a better world in which to live, we''ve got to go back. . . . We''ve got to go back and rediscover the principle that there is a God behind the process." --Martin Luther King Jr.

Discriminatory comments, racial profiling, and hate crimes are examples of racist behavior. Whether subtle or overt, such behavior is harmful. When teens understand what constitutes racist behavior and learn ways to confront it, they are better equipped to address this challenging topic. Using this resource, teens glean a deeper understanding of the thorny subject, and discover specific ways they can confront racist behavior wherever they encounter it. Facts, guidance, and useful sidebars and features round out the coverage on this important issue facing today''s teens.

Cultural appropriation is a form of identity theft. It happens when someone adopts another culture''s identifiable, tangible elements without honoring their cultural importance or significance. It includes everything from hairstyles to clothing to jewelry to musical style. Using historical context, current events, teen-friendly examples, and useful sidebars, this resource helps readers grasp the magnitude of the problem, including how they may be participating in appropriation without even knowing it. When teens better understand cultural appropriation, and become actively involved in helping reduce harm, they will be better able to connect meaningfully with other cultures.

Teens with disabilities are at an increased risk of being bullied and need help addressing and overcoming the unique forms of bullying they face. This insightful resource combines information about basic protections under the American with Disabilities Act, examples of the ways in which teens with disabilities are bullied, and effective anti-bullying strategies to address this issue. The emphasis is placed on safety, and letting students know where to turn to assert their rights. When neurodivergent teens and those with physical disabilities have the tools to combat bullying, they can feel empowered and thrive in all aspects of their lives.

The fight for disability rights continues, even in the wake of successful, ongoing advocacy, activism, and legislation. This valuable resource depicts how the fight has enhanced the lives of people with disabilities, and how readers can continue the efforts. Highlights of renowned activists with historical context, current events, and teen-friendly examples will help teens channel their interests, frustrations, and curiosity into effective activism. A timeline of events with safe, easy-to-implement ideas will inspire future changemakers to team up with others and change the world.

For decades leading up to the civil rights movement, African Americans faced segregation, danger, and humiliation while using public transportation and facilities. Interstate travel posed additional risks, until black as well as white nonviolent protestors challenged the status quo. In solidarity, they boarded public transportation, rode across state lines, and staunchly violated discriminatory laws. Harassed, beaten, and jailed, they pressed forward toward integration. Their courageous "freedom rides" drew widespread attention and ultimately helped change laws. Readers take a fast-paced trip through history to learn about the Freedom Rides'' gutsy passengers, treacherous routes, and remarkable achievements.

Floods, blizzards, earthquakes, and tornadoes are just a few of the natural disasters occurring frequently around the world. They are unpredictable and destructive, and can spark fear and confusion in the hearts of those who have experienced them. Natural disasters can even cause anxiety for those just reading headlines in the news or on social media, or who know someone who has been affected. Readers need accurate and trustworthy information to understand what''s happening to themselves and their community. They will discover tested strategies to help navigate their feelings, practice self-care, and assist others through the storm''s aftermath.