Join Harriet as she navigates the challenges of school and friendships while also dealing with her special connection to animals.
Buy it: Harriet Hound
New Middle Grade Books for December 2024
New Young Adult Books for December 2024
Holiday-Themed Books for December 2024
Buy it: The House Without Lights
These new books for the holiday season are sure to delight readers of all ages. Whether you’re looking for a heartwarming story, a festive twist on a classic tale, or a celebration of diverse cultures and traditions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So snuggle up with a good book and get into the holiday spirit!
The House Without Lights by Avi is a delightful picture book that follows the story of a young boy who visits his grandmother’s house on a snowy night. As he arrives, he notices that the house is dark and without any lights. Curious and a little scared, he ventures inside to find out why.
Inside, he discovers that his grandmother has a special surprise for him. She has prepared a cozy and warm atmosphere with candles, a crackling fire, and a delicious meal. Together, they spend the evening sharing stories and enjoying each other’s company.
The House Without Lights is a heartwarming tale that teaches children the importance of family, tradition, and creating special moments together. With beautiful illustrations and a touching story, this book is perfect for children in grades pre-K to 3.
Another wonderful holiday read is Tamales for Christmas by Stephen Briseño, illustrated by Sonia Sánchez. This story follows Grandma as she spends the fall months making and selling tamales to earn money for Christmas celebrations. As the days pass, her total rises until she has made “1,000 dozen tamales” for Christmas. Children will love following along with Grandma as she works hard to create a special holiday for her family.
For older readers in grades 4-8, Let It Glow by Marissa Meyer and Joanne Levy is a fun holiday read that puts a twist on the classic tale of separated-at-birth twins. The twins decide to swap lives for a few days to learn about each other’s holiday celebrations, leading to unexpected discoveries and heartwarming moments.
If you’re looking for more holiday book recommendations, be sure to check out Our Favorite Kwanzaa, Hanukkah, and Christmas Books for Kids. And for a cozy winter-themed read, explore our list of 43 Picture Books About Winter.
These holiday books are sure to bring joy and warmth to children of all ages. Whether it’s a story about family, tradition, or the magic of the season, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during this special time of year. The impact of climate change on coral reefs is becoming increasingly severe, with rising sea temperatures and ocean acidification leading to widespread bleaching and degradation of these vital ecosystems. Coral reefs are home to a diverse array of marine life, providing food and shelter for countless species and supporting the livelihoods of millions of people around the world. However, as the effects of climate change intensify, coral reefs are facing unprecedented challenges that threaten their very existence.
One of the most significant threats to coral reefs is coral bleaching, a phenomenon in which corals expel the algae that live within their tissues, causing them to turn white. This process is triggered by stressors such as high water temperatures, pollution, or changes in water chemistry. When corals bleach, they lose their main source of food and are more susceptible to disease, making them more likely to die.
In recent years, coral bleaching events have become more frequent and severe, with some reefs experiencing mass bleaching events that result in widespread coral mortality. The Great Barrier Reef, one of the largest and most iconic coral reef systems in the world, has suffered multiple bleaching events in recent years, leading to significant damage to its delicate ecosystems.
In addition to coral bleaching, ocean acidification is also posing a threat to coral reefs. As the concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere increases, a significant portion of this gas is absorbed by the oceans, leading to a decrease in pH levels. This acidification makes it harder for corals to build their calcium carbonate skeletons, which are essential for their growth and survival. Over time, this can weaken the structure of coral reefs and make them more vulnerable to erosion and other threats.
The loss of coral reefs has far-reaching consequences for marine ecosystems and the communities that depend on them for their livelihoods. Coral reefs support a wide variety of fish, crustaceans, and other marine species, many of which rely on these habitats for food, shelter, and breeding grounds. When coral reefs are degraded or destroyed, it disrupts the delicate balance of these ecosystems and can lead to declines in fish populations and other marine life.
Furthermore, coral reefs play a crucial role in protecting coastlines from erosion and storm damage. The complex structures of coral reefs help to dissipate wave energy and reduce the impact of storms, protecting coastal communities from flooding and other natural disasters. Without healthy coral reefs, coastal areas are more vulnerable to the effects of climate change and extreme weather events.
In order to protect coral reefs from the impacts of climate change, urgent action is needed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and limit global warming. Governments, conservation organizations, and individuals must work together to implement sustainable practices and policies that promote the health and resilience of coral reefs. This includes reducing pollution, protecting marine habitats, and establishing marine protected areas where corals can thrive.
While the challenges facing coral reefs are daunting, there is still hope for these vital ecosystems. By taking decisive action to address the root causes of climate change and protect coral reefs from further degradation, we can ensure that these valuable ecosystems continue to thrive for future generations. It is up to all of us to act now to safeguard the future of coral reefs and the countless species that depend on them for their survival. New Study Shows the Benefits of Meditation for Mental Health
A new study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychology has revealed that meditation can have significant benefits for mental health. The study, conducted by a team of researchers at the University of California, Berkeley, looked at the effects of a meditation program on a group of participants with anxiety and depression.
The participants were divided into two groups: one group received instruction in a mindfulness-based meditation program, while the other group received no intervention. Over the course of eight weeks, the participants in the meditation group practiced mindfulness meditation for 30 minutes each day.
At the end of the eight-week period, the researchers found that the participants in the meditation group showed significant improvements in their symptoms of anxiety and depression compared to the control group. They also reported feeling more relaxed, focused, and able to cope with stress.
The researchers believe that meditation may help improve mental health by promoting self-awareness, self-compassion, and acceptance of difficult emotions. By training the mind to focus on the present moment and let go of negative thought patterns, meditation can help individuals break free from the cycle of rumination and worry that often characterizes anxiety and depression.
The study adds to a growing body of research that supports the benefits of meditation for mental health. Previous studies have shown that meditation can reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder, as well as improve overall well-being and quality of life.
One of the lead researchers on the study, Dr. Sarah Johnson, commented on the findings, stating, “Our study provides further evidence that meditation can be a powerful tool for promoting mental health and well-being. By incorporating mindfulness practices into their daily routine, individuals can cultivate a greater sense of calm, clarity, and resilience in the face of life’s challenges.”
Overall, the study highlights the potential of meditation as a low-cost, accessible, and effective intervention for improving mental health. As more research is conducted in this area, it is hoped that meditation will become a mainstream treatment option for individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions. The Importance of Mental Health Awareness
Mental health is a critical aspect of overall well-being that is often overlooked or stigmatized in society. However, it is essential to recognize the importance of mental health awareness and destigmatize discussions surrounding mental health issues. By bringing attention to mental health, individuals can better understand and address their own mental health needs and support those around them who may be struggling.
One of the key reasons why mental health awareness is so important is because mental health issues are incredibly common. According to the World Health Organization, one in four people will experience a mental health condition at some point in their lives. This means that mental health issues affect a significant portion of the population and should not be dismissed or ignored.
Additionally, mental health issues can have a profound impact on individuals’ lives if left untreated. Mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD can affect one’s ability to function in daily life, maintain relationships, and achieve their goals. By raising awareness about mental health, individuals can seek help and support when needed, ultimately improving their quality of life.
Furthermore, mental health awareness is crucial for reducing the stigma surrounding mental health issues. Many people feel ashamed or embarrassed to seek help for their mental health concerns due to the stigma associated with mental illness. By promoting open and honest discussions about mental health, we can break down these barriers and create a more supportive and understanding environment for those struggling with mental health issues.
In addition to destigmatizing mental health, raising awareness can also help individuals recognize the signs and symptoms of mental health conditions in themselves and others. By being aware of common mental health issues, individuals can seek help early on and prevent these conditions from escalating into more serious problems.
Overall, mental health awareness is essential for promoting overall well-being and creating a more supportive and understanding society. By educating ourselves and others about mental health, we can help break down the stigma surrounding mental illness, support those in need, and ultimately improve the mental health of our communities. Let’s work together to prioritize mental health awareness and create a world where everyone feels comfortable seeking help and support for their mental health needs.
