Explore with Usborne

It's coming.....

2011-11-11T21:10:00.000-08:00

Our best deals of the year are coming soon to a computer near you! Our Black Friday sale is almost here! You can count down the hours with us. Deals are available while supplies last, so set your alarm clocks! I know I have!!! Happy shopping!

Back to School Sale

2011-09-06T17:40:00.000-07:00

Hello book friends!

It's time for lunchboxes, backpacks and shiny new shoes! It's also time to get back to the books.
Some of our best books are on sale for the month of September only:

Additional titles are on sale online now. Are you raising an Usborne Reader? There are many ways to fill your bookshelves with our books:

host an online eShow
host an Usborne book fair at your school, preschool, daycare center, community center, etc.
become an Usborne consultant

Have you seen????

2011-06-19T12:42:00.000-07:00

Our amazing New Consultant deal? Get the BIG Consultant kit for just $149 - 25 titles, all the supplies you'll need, a website and so much more. Valued at $380 ~ for just $149 INCLUDING shipping! Offer expires soon, so act now! BEST PART: no minimums, no quotas, NOTHING, EVER. http://tinyurl.com/SummerSignupSpecial

PSSSST: If you're already a consultant, but haven't placed an order in over a year, YOU TOO can sign up again as a consultant!!!

BOOKS YOU'LL RECEIVE

100 Things for Little Children to Do on a Trip (FC) All-Star Cheerleaders: Tick Tock, Taylor (P) Baby’s Very First Touchy-Feely Animals (BD) Big Book of Big Dinosaurs (H) Big Box of Cards (GC) Brush Your Teeth, Max and Millie (BD) Complete Book of Farmyard Tales and CD (C/V) (H) Conspiracy 365, Set 1 January – April - FOUR books! Counting Rhymes (BD) Ely Plot #1 (P) Encyclopedia of World History (IL) (C/V) (H) Everyone Poops (P) Find the Duck (BD) Gobble, Gobble, Moooooo Tractor Book (H) How Big is a Million? (H) I Can Draw Animals (P) Illustrated Elementary Math Dictionary (IR) (FL) My Sister’s a Pop Star (P) See Inside Your Body (BD) Sticker Dolly Dressing Movie Stars (P) There’s a Mouse About the House (H) Write Your Own Story Book (SH)
BUSINESS SUPPLIES
5 Fall 2011 UBAM Catalogs Customer Order Form Pk/100 Fall 2011 Mini Catalog Pk/20 Consultant Guide w/Binder Consultant Agreement Pk/10 Home Show Invitation Mailing List Pk/10 Hostess Guide Pk/5 Invitation Postcard (Purple) Pk/100 1 Recruiting Tent Success Made Easy DVD UBAM Door Prize Slip Pk/50 UBAM Basic Training CD 6 Month Consultant Web Site 6 months OrderPro Online Basic (electronic ordering) 3 Month IMN Guest E-Newsletter Subscription

100 Things for Little Children to Do on a Trip (FC)
All-Star Cheerleaders: Tick Tock, Taylor (P)
Baby’s Very First Touchy-Feely Animals (BD)
Big Book of Big Dinosaurs (H)
Big Box of Cards (GC)
Brush Your Teeth, Max and Millie (BD)
Complete Book of Farmyard Tales and CD (C/V) (H)
Conspiracy 365, Set 1 January – April - FOUR books!
Counting Rhymes (BD)
Ely Plot #1 (P)
Encyclopedia of World History (IL) (C/V) (H)
Everyone Poops (P)
Find the Duck (BD)
Gobble, Gobble, Moooooo Tractor Book (H)
How Big is a Million? (H)
I Can Draw Animals (P)
Illustrated Elementary Math Dictionary (IR) (FL)
My Sister’s a Pop Star (P)
See Inside Your Body (BD)
Sticker Dolly Dressing Movie Stars (P)
There’s a Mouse About the House (H)
Write Your Own Story Book (SH)

BUSINESS SUPPLIES

5 Fall 2011 UBAM Catalogs
Customer Order Form Pk/100
Fall 2011 Mini Catalog Pk/20
Consultant Guide w/Binder
Consultant Agreement Pk/10
Home Show Invitation Mailing List Pk/10
Hostess Guide Pk/5
Invitation Postcard (Purple) Pk/100
1 Recruiting Tent
Success Made Easy DVD
UBAM Door Prize Slip Pk/50
UBAM Basic Training CD
6 Month Consultant Web Site
6 months OrderPro Online Basic (electronic ordering)
3 Month IMN Guest E-Newsletter Subscription

"I have a dream"

2011-01-17T21:02:00.000-08:00

Those four words, and the movement that they represent, have changed our world forever.

As we celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr. and his legacy, share his story with your children or grandchildren too.

Young Reading Series 3
Martin Luther King

Thoughtful introduction to the extraordinary life of Martin Luther King Jr. for young readers.
Lively narrative text, colorful illustrations and photographs bring the subject alive.
Includes essential facts and insightful details to help the reader understand the famous person and their times.
Internet links to recommended websites to find out more about Martin Luther King's life and times.
Part of Young Reading Series 3 for fully confident readers.

Sneak a peek of this book

Buy it now!

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once said, "Life's most persistent and urgent question is: 'What are you doing for others?'"

Each year, Americans across the country answer that question by coming together on the King Holiday to serve their neighbors and communities.

The MLK Day of Service is a part of United We Serve, the President's national call to service initiative. It calls for Americans from all walks of life to work together to provide solutions to our most pressing national problems. For more information, visit www.MLKday.gov and take the MLK 25 Challenge.

BOGO for Books? YES!!!!

2011-01-16T21:52:00.000-08:00

Join Usborne Books in January, and you can share your love for our books

with a friend, neighbor, or coworker for FREE. Yes, FREE.

Why not start the new year with a new home-based business that is completely flexible, family friendly, and now, FREE for your best bud. *You can split the cost of the first kit, making this a fabulous deal for you both, if you prefer. There are two kits to choose from:

Business Kit - Retails for over $380 - now just $129 plus taxes, shipping & handling

30 best-selling titles, business supplies, your own website

Mini Business Kit - Retails for over $150 - now just $49 plus taxes, shipping & handling

8 best-selling titles, business supplies, your own website

Bring a friend, the second kit is FREE!

With Usborne Books & More, you can take pride in owning a business that distributes an internationally acclaimed line of products while impacting our nation's literacy.

Visit www.ExploreWithUsborne.com for more details!

Hurry! This offer ends January 28th, 2011

Save up to 70% off some of our best sellers!

2010-11-24T23:49:00.000-08:00

It's that time of year! Time for giving thanks, gathering with friends and family, eating turkey and pie, playing football.... and BLACK FRIDAY & CYBER MONDAY SALES!

The previews are up and this year's sale is fantastic! Some of my favorites are DEEPLY discounted!

This year, unlike any other year, we're offering TWO different opportunities to save. You will have two 24 hour sales to take advantage of:

Black Friday Sale: starting at midnight central time on Friday
Cyber Monday Sale: starting at midnight central time on Monday

Sneak a peek now! And, while you're peeking, why not share the good deals with others? Feel free to forward this link to anyone who you think might be interested in our books: teachers, parents, neighbors, grandparents, librarians, daycare providers, directors, principals, boy and girl scout leaders, counselors... and maybe even Santa! :)

Anna Hibiscus - LOVE LOVE LOVE her!

2010-09-01T13:40:00.000-07:00

I've adored the new Anna Hibiscus books since the moment I opened my Usborne/Kane Miller box. And now, the reviews are in and others love her too!

Review of the Day: Anna Hibiscus by Atinuke and Hooray for Anna Hibiscus! by Atinuke

August 11th, 2010 Anna Hibiscus / Hooray for Anna Hibiscus
By Atinuke
Illustrated by Lauren Tobia
Kane Miller (a division of EDC Publishing)
$5.99
ISBN: 978-1-935279-73-0 / ISBN 978-1-935279-74-7
Ages 4-9
On shelves September 1, 2010

The rare dual review! I hardly ever do them, but today is special.

Rarer than quality board books. More elusive than good picture books for older readers. The goal, the gem, the one kind of book all children’s librarians seek but know are so difficult to find . . . . the really well written early chapter book. Now let’s say you’ve found one. It happens. Lots exist, to a certain extent (and if you know where to look). Please do me the favor of now asking yourself the following questions about said book: (A) Does it contain characters from another country? If you answered yes, then (B) Are those characters human? At this point, we aren’t even talking about rare early chapter books. We’re talking about near non-existent ones in the American book marketplace. Even if you answered yes to both (A) and (B), can you still guarantee me that the book is really well written with phenomenal illustrations? Cause aside from the occasional White Elephant or Rickshaw Girl there’s not a whole heckuva lot to choose from.

That’s probably part of the reason I’m so enormously fond of this new Anna Hibiscus series by Nigeria-born author Atinuke. Not only are the stories in both Anna Hibiscus and its sequel Hooray for Anna Hibiscus charming but they manage to walk the fine line that exists between truth and perception. There’s not a kid in this country that won’t identify with Anna right off the bat, even if her life is entirely different from their own.

“Anna Hibiscus lives in Africa. Amazing Africa.” Get used to those words. It won’t be the last time you hear them. Anna Hibiscus is a little girl who lives in a beautiful white compound surrounded by her extended family. Aunts, uncles, cousins, and grandparents all live together in a single home. Anna’s mother is originally from Canada, but she fits right in with everyone and the books Anna Hibiscus and Hooray for Anna Hibiscus follow Anna’s small adventures with her family. One minute she’s obsessed with the idea of snow, and the next she’s singing a song for a president of another country. Sometimes she has to watch her twin baby brothers Double and Trouble, and sometimes she’s watching the family goat butt heads with the family’s new generator. Whatever the case, Anna’s a sweet, thoroughly likable character and readers will find themselves longing for a life where there are always cousins to play with, and sweet mango trees in the backyard to climb for fun.

She has a way with words, that Atinuke. It will surprise no one reading these stories that she is a professional storyteller. For example, any kid who has ever had a younger sibling that was teething will instantly understand why Atinuke uses capital letters to describe the newly awakened Double and Trouble with the sentence, “They were Awake and Angry.” The tone of the books is always dead on. Though Anna learns a couple lessons in the course of these tales, you never feel as if the books are preachy or didactic. For example, when Anna refuses to get her hair done any more, all her grandmother has to say is “Leave her. She will learn,” and you know that grandma speaks the exact truth.

Atinuke’s other great strength is that she manages to balance the contemporary and the traditional with ease. I’m sure we may have an early chapter book or two set in Africa (though none immediately come to mind) but I CERTAINLY can’t think of any that take place in a modern setting. The only book that comes to mind was City Boy by Jan Michael, and that certainly was a title for older readers. In the Anna Hibiscus books, though, uncles are calling one another on cell phones and Anna’s texting her aunt across the sea. At the same time, the story “Auntie Comfort” defines the traditions of the family that are still in place. Says the book, “Anna’s mother and father and aunties and uncles drive to work in their cars. They send text messages and e-mails around the world, and call from the market on their mobile phones to see what shopping needs doing. But the clothes they wear are made from colorful African cloth, waxed and dyed and printed. The languages they speak are African as well as English.” So the duality of old and new are shown in a clever little tale. One that I suspect won’t age all that readily.

It’s interesting to me that the very first story in Anna Hibiscus is a tale of how Anna and her mom, dad, and brothers try to take a vacation without the extended relatives, only to realize that they need them more than they thought. At first I was puzzled as to why you’d just thrust the reader into the family situation so abruptly. Then I realized that Atinuke uses this story to introduce to kids the notion of having lots of cousins, aunts, uncles, and grandparents around at all times. It’s like the characters are being introduced on a stage to our applause. And once you understand the living situation (everyone lives in one big house) the rest of the book will make that much more sense. The story also reminded me more than a little of that classic folktale It Could Always Be Worse, which is fun.

Two of the stories in the books are rather similar to one another, but I appreciated their presence. Part of what makes the Anna Hibiscus tales so remarkable is that Anna learns continually about differences in class. So in the first book, the story “Anna Hibiscus sells oranges” tells the tale of Anna envying the girls outside her compound who must sell fruit to earn a living, only to learn what it really means to have to be a kid and work for a living. In the second book, “The other side of the city” shows Anna the poorer neighborhoods of her town. These are very careful little stories, but they really reinforce the message of being grateful for what you already have. That’s not the only topic Atinuke isn’t afraid to broach in an early chapter book, of course. I’ve almost never seen a book that talks about the amount of work that goes into styling African hair that is “thicker and shinier and curlier than any other hair in the whole world.” The tale of Anna’s refusal to engage in the traditional Saturday braiding and weaving of her hair and the horrific results of that choice is like no story I’ve ever read anywhere before.

Now right from the start folks might worry that the men in this book all seem to go to work while the women stay home and remain traditional keepers of the home. That is not really the case, though. One of the first stories in the book is about Auntie Comfort who lives and has a job in America and whom Grandfather worries may have forgotten her African roots (no reason to fear). In the course of that tale we learn that everyone in the home has a job. And in the second book we hear a lot about the various jobs the aunts hold in the family. It seems that only Anna’s grandfather and grandmother are always home without jobs. Not a problem as I see it.

All this would be enough but it’s illustrator Lauren Tobia who knows how to really bring these stories to life. Every character in these books looks exactly right. Anna herself is charming. Half the time (if you’re watching) her flip-flops go flying hither and thither without her notice. I love the different kinds of braided hair you notice throughout the text and the clothes. With just a few swipes of the pen, Ms. Tobia can conjure up a situation fraught with stress or the nicest, homiest family scene. If kids start yearning to belong to a gigantic fun family like the one Anna Hibiscus belongs to, at least some of the credit is going to have to go to Lauren Tobia for capturing this idyllic community.

Admittedly, I would have liked Atinuke to give her books a country and not just a vague “Africa” for where they take place. It’s great for kids to know what life is like overseas, but there’s always the danger that they’ll just assume that all of Africa is one and the same. That said, it’s hard to find much fault with such a lovely series. From the pictures to the stories to the writing to the tone, everything about these books makes you feel happy and content. Here’s hoping there are more Anna Hibiscus books somewhere in the works. A finer crop of overseas fare I have yet to find for the early chapter book set. Memorable and enchanting.
On shelves September 1st.

Anna Hibiscus books are available NOW at www.UsborneBookstoreforKids.com or ExploreWithUsborne.com for just $5.99!

Related Links:

Aaaaaaah! Welsh!

Learn more about Atinuke’s life at Walker Books.

Or hear about her storytelling workshop at the BBC.

In 2008, Anna Hibiscus was shortlisted for the Branford Boase Award and the United Kingdom Literacy Association shortlist.

And I dare say, I could spend hours just looking at the images on Lauren Tobia’s blog. Or sketchbook, for that matter.

Very First Reading set - Available Now!

2010-08-19T00:57:00.000-07:00

Usborne's Very First Reading Set is an inspired series of fifteen books for children who are just starting to learn to read. It offers:

the appeal of imaginative rhyming stories and irresistible illustrations
the support of a well-researched framework
the enjoyment of shared reading with an adult

The 15 book boxed set includes a helpful parents' guide. Online resources are also available online at www.veryfirstreading.com. The series targets children ages 4-7 years of age, although can be read to children who are much younger.

Usborne Very First Reading is based on the principles of synthetic phonics, which is one of several phonics-based approaches teachers commonly use when teaching children to read.

Usborne Very First Reading takes beginning readers from learning their first letters to reading imaginative stories on their own with minimal support and guidance from an adult. Each book in the series builds on material in the previous books.

In the first seven books, adult and child take turns reading, with the child's share becoming more substantial and more challenging in each book.

Starting with Book 8, the child reads the whole story with the adult providing help and support if needed.

The structure behind the books:

Books 1-4 introduce all the letters of the alphabet, in their simplest and most common forms of pronunciation (c as in cat, a as in ant, y as in yell, etc.) in simple one-syllable words. This material is commonly introduced in pre-kindergarten and kindergarten.

Books 5-8 introduce those sounds in English that are commonly written with two or more letters (ch as in chip, ai as in aim, etc.) This corresponds with material that is commonly introduced and reviewed in pre-kindergarten through first grade.

Books 9-13 focus on different patterns of spelling and pronunciation.

Books 14-15 focus on particularly tricky spelling patterns and longer words.

This set has been a labor of love - in the works for several years. View the video below to hear Peter Usborne, in his own words, describe the development of the new series.

Purchase the Very First Reading set today!

Great Ideas for Car Trips with Preschoolers

2010-08-03T11:52:00.000-07:00

Illustration from Dinosaur Fun

PREPARE a little backpack or “fun bag” of entertaining goodies for each young traveler. You might want to keep a few “tricks up your sleeve” too, so think of that as you’re packing.

The backpack might include:
▪ Picture Books
▪ Sticker Books – Usborne has over 60 sticker books to choose from
▪ Toys – small things that need threading, small cars or things with moving parts
▪ Pad of paper
▪ Markers or crayons – washable are my favorites

▪ 100 Things for Young Children to Do on a Trip activity cards from Usborne – bring a washable dry-erase marker for this. You could even punch a whole through them and put them on one or several key rings, one ring for each child. Usborne has a wide selection of Activity Cards for children of all ages.

Some people like to use DVD players in the car for longer trips. You could check out suitable DVDs from the library. Bring a variety – movies, as well as educational animal shows, etc.

Bring a cooler with some favorite snacks and drinks. Keep it handy (not in trunk) to help occupy your darlings while in their car seats. Bring plenty of drinks for everyone. Using sippy cups can be helpful.

Be aware that you’ll need to stop for potty and exercise breaks. Some say every 3-4 hours, but that will vary, of course. To help with flexibility some parents like to have a potty chair/training potty for young children.

Listen to books on tape or CD.

Play games like “I Spy with My Little Eye,” color games and counting games.

Take a favorite blanket and/or pillow for comfortable resting

Remember your baby wipes and a few zip lock bags – these make for easier clean ups. Speaking of clean ups – just in case some one becomes car sick, you might want to have an extra gallon sized zip lock bag or bowl with a tight lid nearby.

Remember an extra set of clothing.

HAVE FUN while MAKING MEMORIES!!

*reprinted with permission - NA Wartman

Everyone LOVES to doodle!

2010-08-03T10:49:00.000-07:00

Children, teenagers, parents, grandparents and teachers alike... EVERYONE loves this book! It's so fun and captivating that I just can't seem to keep it in stock. Grab your crayons, your markers, your pencil crayons or your pastels and feel like a kid all over again, or give your child the opportunity to explore their own creativity!

A hugely creative book with fabulous scenes to customize and color, and doodles that can grow and grow and grow!
Includes an astonishing selection of activities, from wonderfully wild pictures to color in to doodle-starters from which drawings can grow until they cover the whole page.
Doodlers can complete the scenes however they want and the craft paper quality pages are ideal for drawing on.

Are you curious what this book is like? Sneak-a-peek here:

Downloadable doodling sheets

To order Doodling, Drawing and Coloring, click here! This is a GREAT book to have on hand for gifts, road trips, or rainy days.

Teach your child to read with the NEW Usborne Very First Reading Set!

2010-08-03T10:16:00.000-07:00

Usborne Very First Reading is an exciting NEW series for children who are just starting to learn to read. The 15 book boxed set includes a helpful parents guide. Online resources are available at www.veryfirstreading.com (Ages 4-7 years)

Find help and advice on teaching your child to read.

Order the Usborne Very First Reading Set

August Hostess Special: Double Free Books! Host an Usborne Home Show or Online show in August and you can receive this set plus more - free!

New catalogs, New Books!

2010-08-03T09:39:00.000-07:00

It's a very exciting time at Usborne Books. Our new catalogs are hot off the presses and we have wonderful new books to share! Some of our sure-to-be-bestsellers are: Wind-up Pirates, Market Day, That's not my Tiger, Anna Hibiscus, Little book of Horses and Ponies, What's Science About, and three new stroller books!

Check out our latest and greatest books now!

Learning to Fly

2010-06-05T08:46:00.000-07:00

Penguins can’t fly. Of course they can’t. Can they?

A wayward penguin is found by the side of the road and convinces his rescuer he crashed while flying. The unusual pair tries all sorts of methods to return the penguin to the sky (all remarkably unsuccessful) until the day when the penguin finally rediscovers the secret of flight – within himself. This charming, simple, and understated parable is ideal for children starting school, graduates, job-seekers, newlyweds, and anyone else who’s learning to fly in unfamiliar skies.

To purchase this adorable book, visit www.ExploreWithUsborne.com

Title: Learning to Fly
Author: Meschenmoser, Sebastian

• Ages: All Ages• Size of book: 6.5 x 7 inches• Pages: 56• AR Level/Points: 1.6/0.5

•	Earned the Bank Street College of Education Best Children's Books of the Year
•	Earned the Comstock Award Honor Book

"Meschenmoser's illustrations are deceptively straightforward. Sketched in pencil with only minimal color added, the illustrations are warm and often laugh-out-loud funny." - BIG A little a

"This is a lovely book. Share it with children and show them that they should follow their dreams and believe in themselves." - Kids Lit

"Learning To Fly is the brilliant story of a man who befriends a penguin that believes it can fly. It is the most wonderfully illustrated, and wonderously deadpan story book about the impossible coming true I’ve ever seen." - Book Ninja

"This contemporary fable is all about believing in yourself and doing what it takes to achieve your dreams and soar. It speaks softly but carries a big impact, because it is about doing the impossible by believing in yourself, and yet the powerful message is imparted in a subtle and highly entertaining way that will enchant kids of all ages…not to mention adults." - Curled Up Kids

"An adorable, dry-witted fable about believing in the impossible, Learning to Fly should help readers realize that with enough hope and hard work, anything can happen." - Copley News Service

"The charcoal grey and white sketches with splashes of color add beauty to this fable about believing in yourself, and not letting others decide your path in life." - Kids Bookshelf

"In a word, Learning to Fly is HEARTENING." - Whimsy Books

"The detailed, humorous drawings evoke emotion and energy...This is a fantastic, hope-filled book for both children and adults. It gives the reader important messages such as 'believe in yourself, and you can do anything,' and 'listen to yourself, you know what you can do,' in a humorous and entertaining way. A talented illustrator and writer to watch out for. Highly recommended." - Cheryl Rainfield,Uplifting Picture Books that Don't Preach

"It's succinct, deeply silly (in all the right ways), and perhaps one of the best German picture books ever to grace our American shores...A rare title that will delight kids, entice adults, and make anyone who fancies penguins a deeply satisfied soul. " - A Fuse #8 Production

"This book encourages readers (young and old alike) to have faith in themselves and it serves as a reminder to support the dreams of our children (even if we have our doubts) and find a way to help them soar." - Mother Rising

All aboard! Let's celebrate National Train Day - May 8, 2010

2010-05-02T18:59:00.000-07:00

On May 8, 2010, the 3rd Annual National Train Day will be a FREE coast-to-coast celebration. Don't miss out on your chance to tour private and Amtrak train cars, explore interactive and educational exhibits, enjoy live entertainment and much more!

Amtrak has many activities for kids, including a great downloadable activity book, a train quiz and a downloadable origami train. Click here for more fun!

Now, if you don't live anywhere near the free displays, you can still have fun learning all about trains in the comfort of your own home. We have many wonderful train titles for engineers of all ages!

Wind-up Train Book
Series: Wind-Up Books
Author: Heather Amery

• Ages: 3 years and up • Size of book: 9 5/8 x 12 3/8 inches • Pages: 14

Three train stories are retold with a new twist! Each story has a sturdy track embedded in the pages which the accompanying wind-up train toy can then be placed upon to follow around and bring the story to life.

An absolute FAVORITE of all who've seen it! This is the perfect activity book for restaurants, doctor's offices, and long car trips. The perfect gift for children ages 3 and up.

See a sample of one of the three stories

See a sample of one of the three corresponding train tracks

(wind-up train not shown on track)

Trains - IL
Series: Discovery History

• Ages: 8 years and up • Pages: 48

A fabulously illustrated journey through the history of trains, from the early steam giants to the latest bullet-shaped machines.

Stunning photographs show the world's most impressive locomotives in action, while lively illustrations explain how they work.

With internet links to recommended websites with video clips, photo galleries and more information.

To see a sample of the contents, click here, or here, or here.

The Little Book of Train Stories (Book & CD Pack)
Series: Farmyard Tales Readers
Author: Stephen Cartwright & Heather Amery

• Ages: 4 years & up • Size of book: 8 x 8 inches • Pages: 64 • Save $12.97! with this combined volume

Audio Sample
Listen now

This book and CD pack contains a delightful collection of short stories which have been especially written for young children who are just beginning to read. Lively narration with fun sound effects and music make the CD perfect for reading along with or just listening to. A perfect gift for a train lover - comes in a beautiful giftable case.

The Story of Trains
Series: Young Reading Series 2
Author: Jane Bingham

• Ages: 5-12 years • Size of book: 5 1/8 x 7 3/4 inches • Pages: 64 • Save $11.78! with the 7 title value pack
Young Readers Set Fiction

Peek inside this book
Trains, The Story of (Sample #1)
Trains, The Story of (Sample #2)

Today, rail tracks cover most of the world, yet only two hundred years ago, they didn't exist. Every day trains take people to work and on vacation. They can carry cars, crates or crocodiles and even travel under the sea. This book tells the incredible story of trains and how it all began -- with a small steam engine and a wagon full of people.

That's Not My Train
Series: Touchy-Feely Board Books
Author: Fiona Watt

• Ages: 9 months and up • Size of book: 6 1/2 x 6 1/2 inches • Pages: 10 • Save $13.94! with the 7 title value pack
Baby's Bookshelf Set This delightful series of board books is aimed at very young children. The bright pictures, with their patches of different textures, are designed to develop sensory and language awareness. Babies and toddlers will love turning the pages and touching the feely patches.

Trains Lift and Look
Series: Lift and Look Board Books
Author: Keith Newell

• Ages: 3 years and up • Size of book: 9 1/8 x 9 1/8 inches • Pages: 12

Who's on the steam train today? What's happening at the station? Find out by lifting all the flaps in this delightful board book. There are lots of things to spot and a few hidden surprises along the way.

Choo Choo
Series: Stroller Books
Author: Watt, Fiona

• Ages: 6 months and up • Size of book: 3 7/8 x3 7/8 inches • Pages: 8

A soft plastic mini-book perfect for clipping onto a stroller or high chair.

Children will love the gentle, delicate pictures and simple story of the little red and yellow train chugging along its tracks.

The easy clip-on ring can also act as a teething ring.

See Inside this adorable book

Old Steam Train Kid Kit (Bag)
Series: Kid Kits
Author: Amery, Heather

• Ages: 4 years and up • Size of kit: 10 x 16 inches • Pages: 16
When the wheels turn, the smokestack rises and falls. Can be disassembled and re-assembled for hours of fun. Kit includes Old Steam Train (Farmyard Tales Reader) book, 24 piece colorful toy train locomotive and detailed instructions for easy assembly.

For more information on Usborne Books, please visit www.ExploreWithUsborne.com and enjoy the ride - Destination: Literacy!

The countdown has begun....

2010-05-02T12:01:00.000-07:00

On New Year's Eve, Cal is chased down the street by a staggering sick man with a deadly warning....

"They killed your father. They'll kill you. You must survive the next 365 days!"

Hurled into a life on the run, the 15-year-old fugitive is isolated and alone.

Hunted by the law and ruthless criminals, Cal must somehow uncover the truth about his father's mysterious death and a history-changing secret. Who can he turn to, who can he trust, when the whole world seems to want him dead?

The clock is ticking. Any second could be his last.

Callum Ormond has been warned.
He has 365 days.
The countdown has begun....

Conspiracy 365 is a thrilling new series by Gabrielle Lord, available exclusively through Usborne Books/Kane Miller Publishing. The concept is simple - 12 books, 12 months. A new book is released each month of 2010. Books are sold individually or as a subscription. Reduced shipping applies with the subscription AND you will receive each new book approximately one week before it is released publicly.

This series has been phenomenally successful, even gracing the cover of Publisher's Weekly on October 26, 2009. To read the article, click here.

In Australia, where the series was first released:

over 40,000 copies of the January edition have been sold to date, and over 25,000 copies each of February and March to date.
February was the #1 selling children’s book in retail stores in February.
March is already in reprint.
Cal has his own blog at: http://teenfugitive.com

Parents love it, children love it, and media specialists love it! Our librarians are not able to keep it on shelves and often have dozens of children on waiting lists, hoping to read about the latest Cal Ormond adventure.

Order your books today and have half the series (six thrilling books) to keep your child occupied throughout the summer, with a new book arriving on your doorstep each month.

Sneek a peek - read the first chapter of January.

For more information, please visit www.BuyConspiracy365.com.

Subscribe today and receive all five books at once, then receive an early release of each of the remaining books, sent right to your home or school.

Read your Greens, kids!

2010-04-10T17:13:00.000-07:00

With Earth Day just around the corner, I'd love to introduce you to some of our great "green" titles and other books that celebrate our earth and its inhabitants.

The love of reading is CONTAGIOUS!

2010-02-18T14:27:00.000-08:00

Watch this amazing video of students from Ocoee Middle School in Ocoee, Florida

Experience the Winter Olympics with Usborne Books

2010-02-12T06:40:00.000-08:00

Bring the excitement of the 2010 Winter Olympics to your home!

Order the Experience the Olympics Set today, and save $7!

Set includes:

Why should I Bother to Keep Fit? Find answers to questions like: What counts as exercise? What if I hate sports? Does it matter what I eat? This book also has Internet Links to websites to find out more.
Lift-the-flap Picture Atlas Full of flaps to lift, revealing beautiful buildings, exotic animals and fabulous sights. Includes a giant world map poster.
Story of the Olympics Find out how the biggest sports event in the world was born and discover the amazing heroes who have made Olympic history.

Let the games begin!
The Vancouver Winter Olympics begins 2.12.10
and lasts seventeen days.

Order your Olympic Set today!

Valentine's Day Fun with Usborne Books

2010-02-10T06:19:00.000-08:00

Have tons of fun making special cards & treats for Valentine’s Day with Usborne & Kane/Miller Books! Shop Now!

It's the most WONDERFUL time of the year!!!

2009-12-01T11:47:00.000-08:00

Why not give the gift of literacy this year? With Usborne Books, your gift giving can be EASY!

We have fantastic Christmas, holiday and winter books that will occupy your little ones for hours at a time! The weather outside is frightful, but with Usborne Books, activity cards, and kid kits, your holidays can be DELIGHTFUL! Be sure you also check out our holiday sets - a great way to save up to 49% on some of our bestsellers! Shop online now at www.ExploreWithUsborne.com or www.ubah.com/x2048

October Opportunity

2009-10-18T00:25:00.001-07:00

Usborne Books are high-quality educational books for children of all ages. They are filled with vivid illustrations, engaging stories, and captivating facts. They are loved by children, parents, librarians and educators alike.

Usborne Books has unveiled a wonderful promotion for the month of October. If you'd love to earn a little extra money, pay a credit card down, or set money aside for a vacation... it has never been a better time to join Usborne Books!

You can now join our team of consultants and build your own home-based business for just $49! Our October starter kit includes EIGHT of our best books, a set of office supplies, a training manual and dvd, and your very own ecommerce website. The kit has a value of over $150 and will ship for FREE all month long. Even better, this month you have the option to add a bonus kit - doubling the size of your display with EIGHT additional books - for just $20 more! The retail value of the entire kit is over $242, yours for just $69!

But please note: This offer is only valid until October 30th at 10am Central time. As an added incentive, you can also offer his exceptional deal to any family or friends who are also interested in becoming a consultant. Hosting home parties and attending fairs is so much fun when you have a friend or two to share it with. The earlier you join this month, the more time you have to offer the special prices to your friends as well! We are heading into our best selling season on the year, so the more consultants available, the better!!!

So, what do you get when you join Usborne Books?

8 (or 16) of our most popular titles - some of our absolute FAVORITES
a full set of business supplies - order forms, catalogs, home show packets
a training manual and dvd
membership in our online training sites and message boards
access to OrderPro (our electronic ordering program)
a 6 month eCommerce Consultant Web Site
And... the opportunity of a lifetime to earn a living while doing your part to support literacy!

DISPLAY SET - $49 (retail value of over $150)

1001 Pirate Things to Spot (Padded Hardcover)
Bats (Internet Referenced) (Hardcover)
Birds (Internet Linked) (Hardcover)
Sticker Dolly Dressing Pop Stars (Paperback)
That’s Not My Dinosaur (Touchy Feely Board Book)
Things That Move (Board Book)
True Adventure Collection (Combined Volume) (Paperback)
Unique Monique (Paperback)

BONUS SET - additional $20 (retail value of $92)

50 Brain Games (Flash Cards)
Everyone Poops (Paperback)
Fairy Tales (Combined Volume) (Hardcover)
I Can Draw People (Paperback)
Illustrated Dictionary of Math (Internet Linked) (Flexi-bound cover)
See Inside Your Body (Board Book with Flaps)
Telling the Time (Board Book)
Waiting for Winter (Hardcover)

BUSINESS SUPPLIES

Fall UBAM Catalog 10/pk
Fall KM Catalog 10/pk
Customer Order Form Pk/100
Customer Survey Pk/50
Consultant Guide w/binder
Hostess Guide Pk/5
Invitation Postcard Pk/100
Plastic Bags
Recruiting Brochure Pk/25
Success Made Easy DVD
UBAM Basic Training CD
6 Month Consultant Web Site
OrderPro Online, an electronic ordering system

BENEFITS:

Unlimited Earning Potential
Award-Winning Product Line
Minimum Investment
Flexible Work Schedule
Awards
Ongoing support and training
Management Opportunity
Travel Incentives (our next incentive trip is a Hawaiian Cruise!)
Lifetime Usborne discount!

* Directions to implement OrderPro free of charge are enclosed in your consultant packet.

** The web site includes set up and first 6 months of service. If you'd like to renew the site after 6 months, a $50.00 website renewal fee will be charged.

For more information, please visit our website at www.ExploreWithUsborne.com. You can sign up immediately on our secure site here! I look forward to working with you!

Warmly,

Kerrie

Halloween with Usborne Books

2009-10-04T11:01:00.000-07:00

Are We There Yet?

2009-07-20T18:16:00.000-07:00

With Usborne Books, your children can enjoy the journey to Grandma's house just as much as the destination. Check out all the fantastic vacation related books we have to offer at www.ExploreWithUsborne.com and create your own vacation survival kit today!

Mom, I'm bored!

2009-07-20T09:38:00.000-07:00

Are you running out of fun activities for the kids this summer? The learning doesn't have to stop just because school is out! With Usborne Activity Books, your children will have endless creative projects to keep them entertained and occupied all summer long. They will be having so much fun, you just might find yourself joining in! Engage your child today with Usborne Books.

Almost ready!!!

2009-05-01T14:09:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to update you on our status at www.ExploreWithUsborne.com.
I am putting the finishing touches on our website, and hope to "launch" it within the next few weeks. The timing couldn't be better with so many exciting things happening at Usborne:

Usborne/EDC has acquired Kane Miller publishing, which means we are now able to offer hundreds of international bestselling fiction titles. You've probably heard of some of them before - Everybody Poops, Lucky the Dog, SuperDuck, and What comes after a Thousand, to name a select few.
We have some fantastic new titles just released- including a follow-up to How Big is a Million - "How tall is the Sky?"
We are now able to offer an additional $30 in free books for all qualifying hostesses (for all homeshows with net totals over $350)! This is in ADDITION to all other hostess incentives!
Usborne corporate has announced the next travel incentive for consultants, and earnings beginning May 1, 2009!!! It would be so exciting to have a few friends join Usborne and join me on this trip. I am so very excited about it, but I'll keep you in suspense for a couple days....

Okay, I'm not so good at keeping great news a secret, so I will just say Aloha and Mahalo to you all! Thanks for checking in, and please check back often!

Warmly,
Kerrie

Check back soon!!!

2009-03-09T15:12:00.000-07:00