"Tommy is determined to be a pterodactyl when he grows up, despite all the naysayers he encounters"--

“The stories in Acts of God are great postcards from the world of Ellen Gilchrist. It’s a world of war and strife and surprises, and it is, yes, marvelous to behold.” —The New York Times Book Review

Celebrated short story writer Ellen Gilchrist, winner of the National Book Award for Victory Over Japan, returns with her first collection in more than eight years. In Acts of God, she

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Offers stories, scriptural principles, and advice encouraging readers to never give up on themselves or God, regardless of the setbacks or obstacles that they encounter.

When her abuelo is injured at the local landfill, second-grader Sofia is determined to transform the dangerous Mount Trashmore into a park, taking on City Hall in the process.

A young child learns that he does not have to be the strongest, fastest, or jump the highest, but as long as he has determination and heart any goal is achievable.

"Samantha Duck convinces her friend Sebastian, a tortoise, to help her bring Christmas to the animals on their farm and around the world"--

A warm, cozy lap. The toasty smell of baking bread. Tasty food served in a bright-blue bowl. These make Haven's life as an indoor pet heaven. All thanks to her beloved human and rescuer, Ma Millie. But when Ma Millie becomes too sick to care for her, the cat's cozy life is turned upside down, and Haven decides she must seek out another human for help. Anything for Ma Millie! Her vow pulls her out of her safe nest into the shadowy forest and down unfamiliar...

Maya plans to build the perfect treehouse, but after doing research and selecting the perfect spot, she finds she must recruit helpers to get the job done.

Imaginative middle schooler Jimmy follows his dream to start a unique book company while he is still a child.