For centuries, sailors have handed down stories of the giant squid. They say this mysterious monster of the deep chases ships and battles whales. They say it can weigh up to 1,000 pounds and that its eyes can be as big as a human head! Are these stories fact or fantasy? Find out in this exciting beginning reader....

Everyone knows that trains helped build the West, but few know the story of Blind Tom, a sightless workhorse who pulled flatcars for construction crews on the world s first transcontinental rail-road. Stalwartly pulling his heavy load through rain, mud, and snow, Tom contributed in his own way to American history.

Although Tom was blind, his strength and spirit led him to be chosen as the lead horse for the Union Pacific line. Hardworking, patient, and loyal, he was the pride of the UPRR. Telegraph operators tracked the rail workers daily progress by asking, Where s Blind Tom today? He even became a minor celebrity as reporters around the country picked up the story of the tenacious blind horse.

As informative as it is entertaining, this charmingly illustrated book includes a map of the railroad route, a Things to Know page, and a list of museums and Web sites with information about railroad history....

In 1803, President Thomas Jefferson sends Lewis and Clark out west to explore. He tells them to make maps. He tells them to draw pictures and collect plants. Most importantly, he tells them to send presents! What kind of present is good enough for a president? Beginning readers will truly enjoy reading about this fun and little-known slice of American history....

In a town in Italy during World War II the people have surrendered without firing a shot. But American warplanes are due to arrive, and the radio's broken, so no one can tell them to call off the attack! G. I. Joe, a carrier pigeon, is the only one who can take the message to the Americans. Will he make it in time and save the town?...