New Releases by Carla Mooney

Stardom might have seemed like an impossible dream for most people born in rural Tennessee in the 1940s—but Dolly Parton wasn''t most people. From an early age, Parton knew she wanted to be on stage, and as she helped take care of her younger siblings, worked around her family''s home, and attended school in hand-me-down clothes, she set her mind on becoming a star. Parton started writing songs, playing music, and performing in front of an audience when she was still in elementary school, determined to make a living from her music. After she graduated from high school, she moved to Nashville, Tennessee, the country music capital, and began paving the way to what would become one of the most successful entertainment careers in music history. Dolly Parton is a renowned musician, actor, and philanthropist. From her many songs, music awards, and top recordings to leading roles in movies to the millions of dollars she has contributed to disaster relief, literacy, and medical research, Parton has become one of the world''s most recognized legends. And she did it all without forgetting her roots.

Once upon a time, artificial intelligence (AI) was the stuff of science fiction novels and hit movies. The average person could only imagine life with a robot companion helping complete tasks or offering problem-solving suggestions. But from virtual assistants to image generators, AI is becoming an increasingly common part of everyday life, including entertainment. A concept that was once a matter of fiction is now helping to create the very fiction that imagined it. The entertainment industry is a hotbed of AI-based tools that do everything from writing TV scripts to creating virtual film sets to generating video game characters. In the music industry, AI can compose scores, write lyrics, and perform in the style of human artists. It can suggest your next movie or show on streaming platforms or create a playlist in your favorite music app based on your listening habits. And AI can make gaming more realistic and even personalize your experience based on previous play. But while the time- and cost-saving benefits are clear, many people worry that AI might be threatening the authenticity of entertainment by reducing the role of people and the emotion, diversity, and originality they bring. Explore the pros and cons of using AI in entertainment.

Teaching is one of the most challenging but critical professions. Education on every level, from primary school to college to vocational training, is key to moving society forward. Technology has become an integral part of education, and artificial intelligence (AI) is beginning to take a more active role in making teaching and learning more personalized, efficient, and accessible. With the growth of AI in classrooms around the world comes not only a new set of tools and systems to make education better, but also a new set of challenges for teachers, students, and guardians. AI-based apps and programs can adapt the presentation of new information to fit every learning style, provide individualized tutoring, and assist teachers with time-consuming tasks such as lesson-planning and grading. AI can also analyze student progress and help both teachers and guardians provide the support necessary for a student''s success. But not all students have access to the tools necessary to take advantage of AI, AI can be biased and impersonal, and computerized teachers and tutors lack the empathy and emotional intelligence that only a human instructor can possess. Schools and families are faced with a new challenge as education continues to evolve: how to balance helpful technology with the traditional teaching methods to ensure that students succeed.

There was a time when the digital age seemed far off, and using a computer to gather information or store data was just a fanciful idea. But in modern times, nearly all data, including everything from an individual''s health and financial information to company records to national security details, is stored online or on a computer''s hard drive. As more individuals, businesses, and government organizations rely on artificial intelligence (AI) to increase speed and efficiency, both that data and people''s privacy become more vulnerable. AI is commonly used to collect data on websites. It aids in video surveillance in public spaces and is built into many apps and computer programs, including facial recognition software, photo filters, and even entertainment streaming services. But AI poses significant challenges related to data collection, security, and algorithmic bias. Relying on AI can lead to discrimination, bias in important fields such as health care, and crucial mistakes in law enforcement—not to mention massive data leaks. As AI tools become more prevalent, the need for human oversight becomes greater than ever before, and the need for regulation grows nearly as fast as AI can gather information. How can we balance the benefits of AI with the protection of privacy?

When Kendrick Lamar won the 2018 Pulitzer Prize in Music, the world took notice. This was no ordinary rapper. Lamar’s songwriting transcends the boundaries of music, exploring themes of race, identity, social justice, and more. He has something to say, and people stop to listen—and to reward his work with one of the most prestigious awards in the United States. From the release of his first mixtape in 2004 to his outspoken advocacy on social justice issues, including racial inequality, police violence, and the struggles of Black communities in America, Kendrick Lamar is anything but ordinary. His music reads like poetry, tackles pressing issues, and combines a variety of styles and genres to create his unique sound. He is not afraid to speak his mind, both in his lyrics and in the public forum. And he is dedicated to evolving as an artist as the world around him changes, making him a dynamic icon who has and will continue to make a lasting impact on hip-hop and the whole music industry.

As a striker, Erling Haaland’s job on the soccer field is to score goals for his team. But in 2019, the Norwegian player wowed sports fans all over the world when he scored an astounding 9 goals in a single game at the FIFA U-20 World Cup tournament. Erling’s father, Alf-Inge, played professional soccer until young Erling was about three. Erling grew up to make a name for himself in the sport by racking up numerous points, wins, and records. Part of the International Soccer Stars series, Ering Haaland, Norway’s Soccer Star tells the story of a Scandinavian player who has become one of the greatest soccer players in the world.

Sky Brown was just four years old when her father posted a recording of her skateboarding to social media. The video went viral. Soon, the young girl began competing in skateboarding competitions around the world, often against skaters much bigger and older than she was. She also began winning. And winning. When Great Britain assembled its first Olympic skateboarding team, Sky was named part of it. She became the nation’s youngest summer Olympic medalist, and a worldwide favorite. Part of the Women Blazing the Trail series, Sky Brown, Skateboarder tells the story of a young woman determined to reach the top of a sport long dominated by men.

Which version of Taylor Swift is your favorite? When she burst into the country music scene in the 2000s, Swift established a solid fan base with her big voice, her passion for music, and her songwriting skills. When she later made the switch from country to pop and indie folk, she revolutionized not only her own music, but also the music world. Taylor Swift: Queen of Reinvention chronicles Swift''s life and career, her rise to global stardom, and everything in between—from feuds and controversies to unparalleled fan support and Swift''s dedication to advocacy and social justice. Readers learn about Swift''s resilience during her fight to maintain the rights to her master recordings and the reinventions that took her from a popular artist to a global icon.

Hurricanes introduces readers to these windy coastal storms. Readers will learn about how and why hurricanes happen, predicting and preparing for hurricanes, and the effects of hurricanes. The book explores how climate change affects these storms and describes key hurricanes in history. Features include infographics, a glossary, additional resources, and an index. Aligned to Common Core Standards and correlated to state standards. Early Encyclopedias is an imprint of Abdo Reference, a division of ABDO.

Are you interested in starting your own business? This title helps readers explore jobs in entrepreneurship, business, and leadership. Learn about the history of the trade, skills and tools needed to be successful, and ways to build skills before starting training. Aligned to Common Core State Standards and correlated to state standards. Abdo & Daughters is an imprint of Abdo Publishing, a division of ABDO.

Many kids rake and mow their familiesu0092 lawns as part of their chores. Some young people have turned the skills they have learned performing these outdoor tasks into profitable part-time businesses. Many homeowners need an extra set of hands to keep up with their landscaping needs. And they are willing to pay responsible individuals for these helpful services. Part of the Youu0092re Hired! series, I Want to Start a Lawncare Business explores the skills and qualifications needed to start a landscaping company, as well as the best ways to find oneu0092s first clients.

Cheerleading is a big commitment. Cheerleaders spend time exercising, practicing their routines, and performing. Specialized tools help them in each of these areas. This title introduces readers to some of the tools that cheerleaders use. Readers will learn about cheer uniforms, training equipment, and props. The title features informative sidebars, exciting photos, a glossary, and an index. Aligned to Common Core Standards and correlated to state standards. SportsZone is an imprint of Abdo Publishing, a division of ABDO.

This title dives into the tragic disappearance and death of a young mother-to-be. Readers will learn about Laci Peterson''s life, the massive search launched by her friends and family, and the fight for justice in the wake of her murder. Features include a glossary, a timeline, references, websites, source notes, and an index. Aligned to Common Core Standards and correlated to state standards. Essential Library is an imprint of Abdo Publishing, a division of ABDO.

This book introduces readers to Electronic Arts, the publisher behind hit franchises such as Madden NFL, FIFA, and The Sims. Readers will explore the company''s history, its dominance of the sports video game landscape, and how the company continues to innovate today. Features include infographics, a glossary, references, websites, source notes, and an index. Aligned to Common Core Standards and correlated to state standards. Essential Library is an imprint of Abdo Publishing, a division of ABDO.

This field guide has 100 entries highlighting a variety of insects and arachnids. Readers will gain a greater understanding about these living creatures and will be able to identify them in the wild. Features include a helpful introduction to the topic, a glossary, additional resources, and an index. Aligned to Common Core Standards and correlated to state standards. Abdo Reference is an imprint of Abdo Publishing, a division of ABDO.

An up-close look at the battles of World War II for kids ages 8 to 12 Help kids learn all about World War II—right from the front lines. This fascinating guide focuses on the battles that decided the outcome of the war. Each entry puts kids directly in the general''s seat, walking them through the flow of battle as well as the strategies, tactics, and technology that made the difference between victory and defeat. Go beyond other World War 2 books for kids with: 15 key conflicts—Kids will dive deep into well-known and lesser-explored battles alike, from the Attack on Pearl Harbor to the Battle of Crete. Battlefield basics—Each chapter starts off a quick breakdown of the battle, including dates, objectives, and what was at stake. Closer looks—Young learners will find out even more with the help of technological explorations, battle maps, by-the-numbers sidebars, and more. Give kids an exciting new perspective on World War 2 history!

A fun way for middle schoolers to learn about chemistry--through food! Includes hands-on science projects and graphic novel type illustrations. Why does tomato sauce taste different from fresh tomatoes? Why does pasta go limp when you cook it in boiling water? What makes ice cream melt? In The Chemistry of Food, middle school readers learn the science behind the food they love to eat as they explore the chemistry within the meal, how nutrition works, what creates flavor, and why texture is important. What better place to learn the fundamentals of chemistry than in the kitchen? This book offers detailed explanations of five ways chemistry is part of the food they eat. Hands-on, science-minded investigations, links to online resources and media, career connections, and text-to-world questions all create a delicious learning experience for ages 12 to 15. Plus recipes! Throughout The Chemistry of Food, kids encounter essential topics and questions to encourage critical thinking skills, hands-on STEAM activities that encourage creative thinking, graphic novel style illustrations, and more! Links to online resources provide a digital learning experience that integrates content with an interactive platform. Investigations include caramelizing sugar, baking the perfect chocolate chip cookie, experimenting with texture, and conducting a blind taste test. Essential questions guide readers'' investigations while hands-on activities promote critical and creative problem solving, and text-to-world connections highlight the way the past provides context for the present-day world. Aligns with Next Generation Science Standards for middle grade Matter and Its Interactions, Chemical Reactions, and Acids/Bases. About the Inquire & Investigate series and Nomad Press Nomad Press books in the Inquire & Investigate series integrate content with participation, encouraging readers to engage in student-directed learning. Combining content with inquiry-based projects stimulates learning and makes it active and alive. Nomad''s unique approach simultaneously grounds kids in factual knowledge while allowing them the space to be curious, creative, and critical thinkers. All books are leveled for Guided Reading level and Lexile and align with Common Core State Standards and Next Generation Science Standards. All titles are available in paperback, hardcover, and ebook formats.

This book highlights a wide range of careers in the US Air Force, from pilots to aircraft maintenance workers to weather officers. The title discusses the required training and duties of each career, along with the branch''s history and overall mission. Features include a glossary, websites, source notes, and an index. Aligned to Common Core Standards and correlated to state standards. Essential Library is an imprint of Abdo Publishing, a division of ABDO.

The Zodiac Killerexplores all sides of this famously unidentified serial killer. It discusses police investigations, conspiracy theories, and more related to this killer known for his mysterious letters. Features include a glossary, references, websites, source notes, and an index. Aligned to Common Core Standards and correlated to state standards. Essential Library is an imprint of Abdo Publishing, a division of ABDO.

Today, successful business professionals require both business and technology skills. In the marketing industry, professionals with computer science skills can pursue many career opportunities, from planning a company''s digital marketing strategy to managing their e-commerce platform to drive online sales. This insightful book examines careers that combine interests in computer science and marketing, highlighting different jobs, educational requirements, and job search tips. By reading profiles of real jobs in the marketing industry, readers can be inspired by the success stories of people who blend a passion for computer science with a career in marketing.

Organizations in every industry from healthcare to finance rely on cybersecurity professionals to protect one of their most valuable assets, which is information. For those interested in both high-tech security and computer science, there are many roles and career opportunities from designing network security systems to conducting penetration testing to identifying security weaknesses. This book examines several of those careers, highlighting different jobs, educational requirements, and job search tips. By reading profiles of real jobs, readers will inspired by the success stories of people who blend a passion for computer science with an interest in high-tech security.

An in-depth look at the design and engineering of massive scientific telescopes. Addresses the obstacles of construction, the impact on society, and the science of engineering such superstructures.

How Does The U.S. Keep People Within Its Borders Protected? See What It Takes In The Department Of Homeland Security. Integrates Text Features Such As Maps And Timelines.

Explore The Jobs That The U.S. Army Performs All Over The Globe. Learn About The Army In Action! Integrates Text Features Such As Maps And Timelines.

In Stadiums and Coliseums, readers will explore the use of super structures around the world and how they have shaped future technological advancements. This title is the perfect blend of historical content and STEM engagement, and makes a great addition to library collections at home or at school. The Engineering Wonders series takes readers on a historical journey and focuses on the construction of amazing man-made structures and their effects on society. Each 48-page title features full-color photographs, fascinating sidebars, a timeline, a glossary, a list of websites, and comprehension and extension questions. This series engages learners while also reinforcing concepts and helping them strengthen their reading comprehension skills

In Great Wall of China, readers will explore the use of super structures around the world and how they have shaped future technological advancements. This title is the perfect blend of historical content and STEM engagement, and makes a great addition to library collections at home or at school. The Engineering Wonders series takes readers on a historical journey and focuses on the construction of amazing man-made structures and their effects on society. Each 48-page title features full-color photographs, fascinating sidebars, a timeline, a glossary, a list of websites, and comprehension and extension questions. This series engages learners while also reinforcing concepts and helping them strengthen their reading comprehension skills

Computer science is one of the hottest and most in-demand professional fields. Within computer science, hardware engineering offers many exciting career opportunities, including designing new hardware and managing computer network security. With more women entering STEM fields, this book provides a much-needed practical guide for girls who love technology. Profiles of real women working in hardware engineering provide inspiration and a behind-the-scenes look at what these jobs involve. This easy-to-follow guide highlights different types of engineering jobs that girls may want to pursue, educational requirements, and tips for a successful job search.

The United States is a nation built by immigrants; a blend of races, colors, and cultures. Nevertheless, immigrants often face discrimination, at work, at home, and in the community. Awareness and understanding of discrimination against immigrants has become an increasingly important issue across the country. This insightful book examines this difficult issue, looks at the laws pertaining to discrimination, community efforts to end discrimination, and gives readers ways to cope with discrimination in their lives. Features include an in-depth Myths and Facts section surrounding the topic and 10 Questions to Ask a Specialist.

Many people work behind the scenes in sports. Sports personnel work in a variety of careers. They are not on the field, but these professionals are an essential part of the success of their sports organizations. This comprehensive career guide covers the most sought-after careers in sports personnel, including public relations, talent scouts and evaluators, human resources, and financial planning. For each career path, readers will learn about educational and professional requirements, job responsibilities, and job outlook, while also learning job-specific skill building and work experience that they can start today to prepare for a career in the sports industry.

This title covers the major drivers of the Latin American region’s economy, including exports of agricultural products, petroleum and minerals, and manufactured goods, along with the service and tourism industries. Despite recent improvements, the Latin American economy remains dependent on commodity exports to the West, presenting a challenge to the region’s long-term future. When used in the classroom, this resource provides readers with the tools they need to analyze concepts in economics and how they affect the countries of Latin America.