Five Dollars and a Pork Chop Sandwich: Vote Buying and the Corruption of Democracy
Good Dirt

Just Because

Curious minds are rewarded with curious answers in a fantastical bedtime book by Mac Barnett and Isabelle Arsenault.

Why is the ocean blue? What is the rain? What happened to the dinosaurs? It might be time for bed, but one child is too full of questions about the world to go to sleep just yet. Little ones and their parents will be charmed and delighted as a patient father offers up increasingly creative responses to his child’s nighttime wonderings. Any child who has ever asked “Why?” — and any parent who has attempted an explanation — will recognize themselves in this sweet storybook for dreamers who are looking for answers beyond “Just because.”

More Juvenile Books

  • In Good Night Thoughts, the child struggles to fall asleep due to their racing thoughts - funny, silly, and scary. Through self-reflection, they learn to acknowledge their anxiety without letting it overwhelm them, making this picture book a comforting read for both children and adults who find nighttime to be a challenging time for their thoughts.

    Read More about "Good Night Thoughts"...

  • In How Does Santa Go Down the Chimney?, authors Mac Barnett and Jon Klassen explore the whimsical question of Santa's descent on Christmas Eve. With a blend of earnest deadpan humor and irresistibly funny illustrations, they present a variety of imaginative possibilities, from sliding under doors to shape-shifting through faucets, inviting readers to ponder the delightful mysteries of the holiday season.

    Read More about "How Does Santa Go Down the Chimney?"...

  • John's Turn, authored by Mac Barnett, beautifully celebrates the theme of individuality through the lens of a young boy's performance at school. As John prepares to share his talent for dancing, his journey unfolds with tenderness and subtlety, showcasing the courage it takes to express oneself in front of an audience.

    Read More about "John’s Turn"...

  • A determined Owl builds strength and confidence in this medieval picture book about the real mettle of a hero: wits, humor, and heart. Since the day he hatched, Owl dreamed of becoming a real knight. He may not be the biggest or the strongest, but his sharp nocturnal instincts can help protect the castle, especially since many knights have recently gone missing. While holding guard during Knight Night Watch, Owl is faced with the ultimate trial–a frightening intruder. It’s a daunting duel by any measure. But what Owl lacks in size, he makes up for in good ideas. Full of wordplay [...]