My OVERWHELMING Week, the 4th in the Annabelle-Please-Don’t-Tell! series of chapter books, continues the adventures of Annabelle and her younger brother (Andrew) as they encounter heart-stopping dangers and emotional challenges. What would normally be a week of relaxation, during winter vacation, becomes a seven-day marathon of risk and rescue episodes that demand difficult choices. Annabelle and Andrew learn many surprising facts and secrets about a widely diverse group of friends and community members. They also make mistakes, some of which are noticed by parents and the police, but humor and goodwill help everyone through. Readers will find some of their own feelings expressed. The first day's adventure takes place at Penn State's ice-skating arena. This series models strong English vocabulary, grammar, and syntax, as well as cleverly embedded academic content across disciplines. Carlos and his father speak in both English and Spanish; other characters represent countries around the world. Students in grades 1 & 2 will enjoy listening to an adult read to them, while they look at exciting illustrations. Older children will be able to read the books, absorbing advanced vocabulary that is repeated in differing contexts for full understanding. Active participation is encouraged with questions at the end of the book. The website offers free activities and information for children, teachers, and other adults. The Annabelle-Please-Don't-Tell! series has been successfully used in elementary school classrooms to trigger active discussion about contemporary topics, and to prompt students at various levels to write creatively.