Linda Ashman

As an old man grumbles his way through a rainy morning, spreading gloom, his neighbor, a young child, spreads cheer while hopping through puddles in frog-themed rainwear.

"The classic song gets a fresh new twist! The fun begins when Grandma and Grandpa send invitations to their far-flung, modern, and multiracial family: Come to our house for the holidays--and bring your favorite pie! Off everyone goes, driving down snowy roads, riding the train, boarding a plane ... even sailing along in a hot-air balloon. As each family faces an obstacle that delays their trip, they learn that sometimes the most old-fashioned form...

"What's a day in the life of a small-town fire department like? In this action-packed adventure, Fire Chief Fran leads her fire-fighters through everything from inspections and drills to dangerous blazes. If a puppy is in danger or a café is ablaze, Fran and her crew are ready to help! When the lights flash and the bells blast, these firefighters leap into action; they need to move fast. With energy and grit, compassion and calm, they help their...