When Betsy learns that a new family is coming to the Nebraska prairie, she hopes they have a girl who will be her friend.

Describes spring's gradual arrival on a farm.

On the first Hanukkah after Mama died, Papa and his two daughters try to make latkes and celebrate without her.

Nine-year-old Dennis, whose uncle and father died within a year of one another, is visited by the ghost of his uncle, and together they settle some unfinished business.

"What is America? It is fifty states from the Atlantic coast to the Pacific Ocean and beyond. It is a flag of stars and stripes. It is farmers, miners, factory workers, bakers, and bankers..."

A brief biography of the author and college professor whose travels across the United States inspired her to write the poem which became the song "America the Beautiful."

Alex quits playing chess after losing a game to Uncle Hooya; but when other activities fail to satisfy him, he gives his favorite game another try by joining the chess club.

"When each family at the diverse Juniper Court apartment complex needs something to light up the dark of winter, the stumpy, lumpy candle provides a glow brighter than the fanciest taper, revealing the true spirit of each holiday it illuminates"-- "When each family at the diverse Juniper Court apartment complex needs something to light up the dark of winter, the stumpy, lumpy candle provides a glow brighter than the fanciest taper, revealing the...