social life and customs

In 2004, four undocumented Mexican teenagers arrived at the national underwater robotics championship at the University of California, Santa Barbara. No one had ever told Oscar, Cristian, Luis, or Lorenzo that they would amount to much -- until two inspiring high school science teachers convinced the boys to enter the competition. Up against some of the best collegiate engineers in the country, this team of underdogs from Phoenix, Arizona, scraped together spare parts and a few small donations to astound not only the competition's judges but themselves, too.

"Award-winning author Eddie Chuculate recounts his experience growing up in rural Oklahoma, from boyhood to young manhood"--Provided by publisher.

Mexican food and the culture of its people are deeply connected. Readers explore this connection through insightful main text and fact boxes that highlight how geography, festivals, daily life, and food have been linked throughout Mexican history. Maps help readers visualize where certain ingredients come from, and colorful photographs depict Mexicans and the foods they enjoy in engaging detail. As readers learn, they are invited to take that knowledge into the kitchen with the help of recipes broken down into simple steps. This journey through Mexico is sure to have readers coming back for seconds!.

"A gripping historical mystery based on the real-life diary entries of Martha Ballard, an 18th-century midwife who found herself at the center of a murder trial"--.

Lola and her family celebrate the Day of the Dead with a traditional Guatemalan dish that originated at a graveyard.

"Covering traditions ancient and modern, 'Christmas Past' is filled with stories of happy accidents, cultural histories, criminal capers (including tomb raiders and con artists), and hidden connections between Christmas and broader social, economic, and technological influences"--Provided by publisher.

A graphic novel adaptation of Charles Dickens's novel in which a miser learns the true meaning of Christmas when three ghostly visitors review his past and foretell his future.

"It's Lunar New Year, a time when families come together for a wonderful feast, and a father longs to be with his daughter--but she lives in another country. As he imagines how his daughter is spending the festivities, he recalls fond memories of time spent with her, feeling a sense of loss and dislocation. While he misses her deeply, he also recognizes her need to move away, grow up, and become herself. New Year is a stunning portrait of leaving home, finding independence, and loving those who are many miles away. At a time when so many families are unable to gather together, readers will relate to the universal message of missing our loved ones and dreaming of being together again"--Provided by publisher.

"Children will get an inside look at Vietnam's vibrant culture, while learning through ... hands-on games, songs, and activities!"--Provided by publisher.

"Take a trip to Jamaica! Start in the city of Kingston, where you can see beautiful views of the Caribbean Sea and the Blue Mountains. Then, listen to some reggae music or grab some delicious jerk chicken to eat. And don't forget to say hi to the manatees! Learn all about Jamaica as you explore the country through this . . . book"--Provided by publisher.