Southern Nonfiction

The term “serial killer” was first introduced in the 1970s by FBI Agent Robert Ressler. Shortly after joining the FBI in 1970, he was recruited to join the newly developed Behavioral Science Unit where he became fascinated with the psychology behind violent offenders. He wanted to better understand the motive behind a murder – what caused the person to act out in such a way, and what similarities these individuals shared. Ressler recognized that most offenders knew their victims, but there was a certain type of killer that picked their victims at random, and often killed multiple ...

They’ve just achieved statehood. Has the wilderness of this new wife’s childhood been completely tamed, or are there deadly threats on the horizon? Florida, 1844. Mary Adeline Walker brims with optimism. After three years of marriage, she’s still head-over-heels in love with her refined gentleman of a husband and delights in their blended family of five children. But it’s hard to remain at peace as outlaw gangs constantly crop up and news of war with Mexico brings a spark to her spouse’s eyes. Relieved as the conflict sweeps by without harming her household, Mary steadfastly keeps...

Coffee and brightly painted oxcarts. Quetzals, coastlines, and the Montverde Cloud Forest Reserve. Learn the ABCs of Costa Rica in this exotic, colorful tour of the small but treasure-filled Central American country.

A historical non-fiction book set in various regions of ancient North and South America during the pre-Columbian era. Unearth the forgotten legacy of the Mound-Builders—an advanced civilization that flourished across North America long before European contact. This compelling narrative dives deep into the rich history of these remarkable ancient peoples, exploring their impressive earthen mounds, complex social structures, and the tragic tales of knowledge lost to time and conquest. Their story is one of ingenuity, resilience, and ultimately, a poignant reminder of what was lost in the ...

She’s the ordinary daughter of a low-country cattleman. Trapped in the heart of a brutal wilderness, will she sow the seeds of a lasting legacy? South Carolina, 1827. Mary Adeline Walker is scared. Happy living in the middle of a big extended family, the sharp-eared seven-year-old can’t understand why her father and uncles are discussing moving to the dangerous Florida Territory. But though the independent girl is a quick learner, she worries the proposed fresh start won’t survive the treacherous trip to America’s newest land. Arriving in Jefferson County during 1829’s harsh ...

Venezuela is a land of striking beauty. Angel Falls, the highest waterfall in the world, plunges more than 3,000 feet in the Guiana Highlands. Lake Maracaibo, the largest lake in South America, sits in northwestern Venezuela. Eager listeners will get their feet wet in this title that explores Venezuela's landscape, people, and heritage.

El Salvador is the smallest and most densely populated Central American country. Because of its location on the Pacific Ring of Fire, it must endure volcanic eruptions and earthquakes. Hurricanes also sweep in from the Caribbean. However, El Salvadorians don’t let these events quiet their vibrant culture. This book introduces El Salvador’s landscape, cuisine, wildlife, heritage, and much more!

Brazil is the largest country in South America and the fifth largest and most populated country in the world. The Amazon Rainforest in Brazil has the greatest biological diversity of any ecosystem on the planet. Students will learn all about Brazilian culture and get a glimpse into what kids do for fun in Brazil, especially discovering the country’s love for soccer.

Cuba is a group of several islands. Long ago, one of the islands was called Treasure Island because it was a home base for many Caribbean pirates. Young listeners will learn about life in modern Cuba—the school system, the delicious food, and the vibrancy of Cuban culture.

Costa Rica, which means “Rich Coast,” is aptly named. Its long coastlines, bordering the Caribbean Sea to the east and the Pacific Ocean to the west, have some of the most diverse ecosystems on Earth. Young listeners will learn about Costa Rica’s booming ecotourism, the daily life and cuisine, and the peaceful, laid-back nature of its people.

Toucans fill the rain forests with chatter. Learn all about these colorful birds and their habitats in Toucans.

Parrots, rain forests, and the Amazon River. Soccer legends and the Carnaval of Rio de Janeiro. Discover the ABCs of a country known worldwide for its deep jungles and amazing variety of plant and animal life in this tour of Brazil.

In an immersive, exciting narrative nonfiction format, this powerful book follows a selection of people who experienced the 2010 Haiti Earthquake.

Welcome to South Africa! Hear the sounds of 11 official languages. Learn about lions and elephants on safari. Try new sports like cricket and rugby. Learn about the people, places, and traditions of this diverse African country.

Welcome to Ecuador! See the sites. Enjoy the food. Hear the language. Discover this country's land, people, and traditions.

Anacondas hide in muddy waters. Learn all about these giant snakes and their habitats in Anacondas.

Tragedy, Survival, and Triumph…South America the War Doesn’t End in Europe: A War and Love Story. Based on true events. Jude is a boy who managed to escape the concentration camp where his parents died. A new life awaits him after joining a group of people who, like him, have survived the Holocaust. South America appears as the dreamland where he can build his new destiny. However, the New World will also become the dreamland for Germans avoiding being held accountable for the crimes they’ve committed. "Dad, daddy," Jude said as he cried. Unable to stop his tears, and being careful ...

From the beloved, best-selling author of All over but the Shoutin', a delectable, rollicking food memoir, cookbook, and loving tribute to a region, a vanishing history, a family, and, especially, his mother. In The Best Cook in the World, Rick Bragg finally preserves his heritage by telling the stories that framed his mother's cooking and education, from childhood into old age. Because good food always has a good story.

Many different civilizations have lived on the land that is now Peru. Today, tourists travel to this South American country to see Machu Picchu, an ancient Inca site. Learn more about Peru, its people, the Amazon Rain Forest, and much more in this exciting title!

A land famous for green tea and the martial art of tae kwon do, South Korea lies on a peninsula in southern Asia. Many small islands fill the waters off its coast, including the volcanic Cheju Island. Learn all about South Korea’s landscapes, the everyday life of its people, and the country’s history with North Korea.