Physical Culture

Blind since the age of three, young Louis Braille wanted to be able to read. He spent every spare moment punching holes in paper with a stylus until, by the age of 15, he had invented his own alphabet. This vivid biography, written by an award-winning author, allows young listeners the opportunity to identify with and to appreciate a real life hero.

Welcome to the United States of America! The USA is the third largest country in the world and also, one of the most beautiful. It is full of lakes and rivers, mountains and canyons, beaches and deserts. It has many different trees and flowers and all sorts of different crops grown for use as food. And, of course, America has birds and animals of all kinds. Last, but not least, the United States has about 300 million people from many different backgrounds and cultures.

Imagine over three million square miles of sand dunes that are as tall as a ten-story building. That place is real—it's the Sahara Desert! Vast, yes! And home to fascinating creatures such as ostriches and fennec foxes as well as amazing plant life. The shallow roots of the mesquite tree can grow almost 200 feet across to absorb water.

It might seem lonely at the top of the world, but the North Pole is teeming with life! Polar bears, walruses, and arctic seals make their home on sea ice that can be nine feet thick while the Inuit and other indigenous peoples continue their traditions and means for survival in this harsh climate.

Let's take a trip to India! What makes this Asian country unique? Find out as you immerse yourself in the country's food, culture, animals, and sports. Lively, carefully leveled text introduces critical thinking skills. Grab your bags!

Every country has its own awesome attractions. What makes China special? Explore China's amazing features, including the Great Wall, the many growing cities, and more.

Rachel has been chosen to ride a bike in Riverdale's parade! There's only one problem - she doesn't know how. But she's determined to learn! She and her dad go all over Riverdale to prepare for the big day - from the bank to the bike shop. How is Rachel's town similar to and different from other towns? Come along and hear what makes Riverdale worth celebrating!

Will is very excited! He's researching countries for school and has a new pen pal named Abdou from Morocco. Abdou writes to Will about what makes his country special. Will can't wait to write back. But first, he gathers facts and photos for Abdou about the United States - including its government, climate, people, and landmarks. Along the way, he learns something new about his country.

Ever wonder what crops grow in North Carolina? Or which state park is nearest to your home? Economic and resource maps show what natural resources are in a place and how people in that place earn money. They can also include data about industries. But how do you use these maps? And what goes into the process of creating them? Listen to become a map whiz!

Ever wonder what the capital of Alaska is? Or how many states share a border with New York? Political maps show state and national boundaries. They include major cities and places created by people. But how do you use political maps? And what map features help you answer geographical questions? Listen to become a map genius!

Ever wonder what route would get you from coast to coast the fastest? Or where to find camping spots on a road trip? Road maps and GPS give details about routes and sites. But how do you use them? And how can you make the most of these tools to get the information you need? Listen to become a pro at using GPS and road maps!

Ever wonder which states are the cloudiest? Or what city gets the most snow? Climate maps can tell you. They show average weather conditions - in your neighborhood, around the world, or even on Mars! But how do you read a climate map? And how are these maps made? Listen to learn the details!

Camila and her brother, Carlos, are going on a road trip with their parents! They're driving all the way from their home in Austin, Texas, to visit their granddad in Louisiana. Along the way, they collect state quarters and learn fun facts about states from Alaska to Rhode Island. Ride along as they discover all the things that make states great!

Noah has a big imagination, and he's using it to go on an even bigger adventure! He and his babysitter, Ruby, are zooming around Earth in their spaceship. With the help of Ruby's SpacePhone, they're learning about the people, places, and climates of the seven continents. Ride along as they explore landforms and landmarks from Asia to North America.

Want to know just how tall Mount Everest is? Or what the city of Denver's elevation is? Then look at a topographic map! These maps use lines to show the height and shape of Earth's surface. But how do you read the lines? And what other features do these maps have? Listen on to learn the ins and outs of topographic maps!

What's so great about California? Find out the top 10 sites to see or things to do in the Golden State! Explore California's beaches, mountains, film studios, and colorful history. A special section provides quick state facts such as the state motto, capital, population, animals, foods, and more. Take a fun-filled tour of all there is to discover in California.

Pack your bags! We're headed to the United Kingdom. On this whirlwind tour, you'll learn all about the country's landscape, culture, people, and more. We'll explore green valleys and packed cities, taste the unusual Scottish dish haggis, and attend Britain's Bonfire Night celebration. A special section introduces the United Kingdom's capital, language, and population. Hop on board and take a fun-filled look at your world.

What's so great about Minnesota? Find out the top 10 sites to see or things to do in the North Star State! Explore Minnesota's wooded wilderness, 10,000 lakes, and rich history. A special section provides quick state facts such as the state motto, capital, population, animals, foods, and more. Take a fun-filled tour of all there is to discover in Minnesota!

Pack your bags! We're headed to South Korea. On this whirlwind tour, you'll learn all about the country's landscape, culture, people, and more. We'll explore coastal islands and mountain ranges, enjoy traditional pansori music, and try a popular dish of pickled vegetables. A special section introduces South Korea's capital, language, and population. Hop on board and take a fun-filled look at your world.

What's so great about Georgia? Find out the top 10 sites to see or things to do in the Peach State! Explore Georgia's stunning scenery, buzzing cities, and exciting history. A special section provides quick state facts such as the state motto, capital, population, animals, foods, and more. Take a fun-filled tour of all there is to discover in Georgia!