Books for Kids
Dealing with Dragons by Patrica C. Wrede
Princess Cimorene didn’t set out to apprentice herself to a dragon. But it was the only way she could get out of endless lessons in etiquette and embroidery. She’d much rather learn about magic, fencing, and library science. This appealingly headstrong heroine begins her four-volume journey here, doing her best to figure out why the local wizards keep turning up where they’re least expected, and why they’re so interested in who becomes the next dragon king. Reviewed by SMV on 7/31/08
The Pigs' Picnic by Keiko Kasza
Mr. Pig wants to ask Miss Pig to go on a picnic with him. On his way to her house he meets three of his friends who offer him advice. The fox wants to loan Mr. Pig his tail, the lion his mane, and the zebra offers his stripes. The results are hilarious, but Miss Pig doesn't recognize her old friend when he arrives in her yard. It doesn't take long for Mr. Pig to realize it's better to "just be yourself." With its delightful illustrations and short text, The Pigs' Picnic is a great choice for story time! Ages 3-6.
Reviewed by RC on 7/25/08
Loki & Alex by Smith Charles R., Jr.
Do you love playing with your dog or wish you had a dog to play with? Have you ever wonder what dogs think? Well, this book is for you! It had my kids (ages 3, 4 & 10) laughing hysterically! Alex (a boy) and Loki (his dog) are the best of friends and have a great time together! Alex may think he knows Loki, but they really have different views. This is a great book to share with the whole family!
Reviewed by Andrea on 7/23/08
Peppermints in the Parlor by Barbara Brooks Wallace
“Peppermints in the Parlor” tells of eleven year-old Emily Luccock, recently orphaned, who is moving to San Francisco to live with her beloved Aunt and Uncle in their beautiful home. Emily remembers the wonderful times at this beautiful home but when she arrives all has changed. She enters a dark, dismal house that is too quiet and too full of sadness. The old people who now live there are lifeless and very frightened. Emily knows something is amiss when her Aunt Twice is frightened and is no longer the happy person Emily remembers.
“Peppermints in the Parlor” is a story with a mystery and a girl who wants to help the old people residing in the gloomy house. But, how? Emily and her friend Kipper are courageous, resilient and really very frightened but determined to discover why there are such dramatic changes in this once happy house.
Wallace has written a book with descriptive language that provides a suspenseful and intriguing book for the elementary school reader. Other reviews describe the book as a first “gothic” novel for children. Reviewed by "Mrs. B" on 7/22/08
Everything On a Waffle by Polly Horvath
In the small town of Coal Harbour, in a quaint restaurant called The Girl on the Red Swing, everything comes on a waffle--lasagna, fish, you name it. Even waffles! Eleven-year-old Primrose Squarp loves this homey place, especially its owner, Kate Bowzer, who takes her under her wing. She entertains herself in a variety of ways--mostly by wryly observing those around her with wisdom, compassion, and slightly cynical humor that belie her years. As her parents are assumed to have drowned at sea, she sits on the dock and waits for her parents to get back, goes to the store and tells the grocer the cottage cheese has expired (not appreciated), and writes recipes that her mother taught her in a memo pad. Everything On A Waffle is about the quirks and adventures of individual townspeople as seen through Primrose's wise eyes and a laugh-out-loud pleasure from beginning to end. Reviewed by Ronda 7-18-08
Ignis by Gina Wilson, illustrated by PJ Lynch
This beautiful, heart-warming story about a young dragon seeking his inner fire (I told you it was "heart-warming!") features the art of my favorite modern illustrator. This book is a delight to read and show to a younger child, and a pleasure to curl up with for children of any age -- I, for instance, discovered it in my thirties. Reviewed by Oren 7/18/08
The Three Little Fish and the Big Bad Shark by Julia Gorton
It's probably obvious by the title that this is based on "The Three Little Pigs and the Big Bad Wolf" but what made this book stand out is the vivid color illustrations and the fact that the shark loses his teeth and becomes a vegetarian. The three fish are named Jim, Tim and Kim and are all fast swimmers. Recommended for ages 4 to 8. Reviewed by Stina 7/11/08
Olivia by Ian Falconer
Olivia is a book for anyone who loves animals, like me. Even without any words, the illustrations themselves just made me smile - Olivia's facial expressions, her pointy feet and hands, her long stick-up ears, the way her body moves - these all made me chuckle. I really enjoyed the two pages of Olivia trying on all her different, red outfits in the morning. She's such a girl! I was disapponted, however, that when I came to the part about what she does when she gets up in the morning, the illustrator didn't show a picture of her combing her ears. This definitely conjures up a hilarious image for me, and I think it would've been a perfect addition to the book. I rather enjoyed, though, the pages about Olivia looking at famous works of art, including her most favorite piece. Having had the rare opportunity to stare at my most favorite work of art at the MOMA last year, I could really relate to Olivia just standing and staring at her favorite. When the author wondered what she was thinking, I thought back to what I was thinking when I stood in front of my favorite. I bet Olivia was thinking how beautiful the painting was and how lucky she felt to be viewing it in person, as I did. Although Olivia's only a pig puppy and her story is written for children, this book seems to be one that could charm adults and children alike. Reviewed by Laura 7/09/08
Mercy Watson Goes For a Ride by Kate DiCamillo
The Watson Family pig, Mercy, gets behind the wheel of Mr. Watson's cadillac and goes on an exciting ride that rivals any Mr. Toad ever had. The Watson's neigbors get involved in the escapade as well as a grumpy policeman. All is resolved or perfectly buttered toast after an incident which clearly illustrates the importance of wearing seatbelts, even if you're a pig. The book is charmingly illustrated to highlight the retro-sweet setting of the tale, and the expressions on the character's faces are hilarious. You can almost feel the wind in your ears, an the sun on your snout. I would recommend this for Chapter Book beginning readers. Reviewed by Gia 7/08/08
Bunnicula Meets Edgar Allan Crow by James Howe
Who doesn't love the Bunnicula series, featuring the wacky pets of the Monroe household - Harold, the chocolate-loving, mellow sheepdog, Chester, the Monroe's sassy, suspicious cat, Howie, the excitable "wired" daschund puppy, and Bunnicula, of course, their "vampire" rabbit? In "Bunnicula Meets Edgar Allan Crow," the whole household is jittery, as M.T. Graves, children's author of the famous "FleshCrawlers" series, is coming for a visit. Arriving in a black cape with his own suspiciously silent pet, Edgar Allan Crow, on his shoulder, and a "murder" (flock) of crows in the backyard, Graves asks to have Bunnicula stay in his guest room, accompanied with some plain salad makings. Curious, yes, but Chester is quite sure that the author plans to use the bunny for one of his own wicked pet plots, and Harold is quite sure that Chester's imagination has gone into overdrive once again. Howie, on the other hand, is jumping with delight, as he is a big fan of the famous "FleshCrawlers" series, and a fledgling author, sure to get writing tips from the famous author. But, then, Bunnicula suddenly does disappear...are Chester's suspicions right? Is Bunnicula to be seen "NEVERMORE?" Sadly, the series itself may be "NEVERMORE," as this may be the last installment. If you aren't yet a fan, start with the first, "Bunnicula: A Rabbit-Tale of Mystery," and continue to enjoy the adventures and laughs with all of the sequels. Also, not to be outdone by his older canine buddy, Howie has also penned a series called, "Tales from the House of Bunnicula." Read them all - you won't soon forget these very entertaining pals. Reviewed by Judy 7/07/08
You Can Learn Sign Language! by Jackie Kramer & Tali Ovadi
More than 300 words in pictures, including subjects such as animals, school and sports, fill this engaging and educational book for children. Reviewed by Beth
Wild Magic by Tamora Pierce
Shy, country-bred teenage Daine, who has been orphaned by raiders, signs on as assistant to Horsemistress Onua, who is driving a herd of newly acquired mountain ponies to Tortall to be trained as mounts for the Queen's Riders. Daine has an unusual talent, she can 'talk' to animals. She denies that this talent is magic, or 'the gift'. On the way to Tortall, Daine and Onua have many exciting adventures. One of which, leads her to meet Numair, the mage. This is only the beginning of an exciting tale in which Daine gradually accepts the fact that she has wild magic and, with Numair's help, begins to learn how to control it as she is called upon to join the deadly battle to protect the kingdom. I really enjoyed this book and the whole series. Very empowering for little girls, the Queen's Riders are all female, in fact the Queen herself is a Knight. I couldn't wait to get through the whole series! Reviewed by Maile 7/05/08
Joey Pigza Swallowed the Key by Jack Gantos
Joey Pigza tries hard not to disappoint his mother, his teacher, his principal....but he's wired and just can't help it! This story, narrated by Joey himself, is both funny and heart-wrenching as the school system tries to get this lovable kid with ADHD on an even keel. Joey wreaks havoc in his classroom but will win your heart as you follow him through the ups and downs of ADHD. Reviewed by Elayne 7/02/08
When The Sky Is Like Lace by Elinor Horwitz
My love affair with the illustrations of Barbara Cooney began 33 years ago with this special story. Long out of print, I was delighted to find this picture book had been re-released in 2004. It is hard to separate Ms. Horwitz's magical words from Ms. Cooney's enchanting illustrations. This is a wonderful book to read aloud. Even if you didn't know what a bimulous night was before you read this book, you will never fail to recognize one again. So listen for the otters singing, start the spaghetti with pineapple sauce and please don't wear anything orange, not even underneath...
Reviewed by Marci 7/02/08
Llama Llama Mad at Mama by Anna Dewdney
I can relate to this story as it almost happens everyday. I enjoy the rhyming of the book, all the way through the story. Trying to get the shopping done while the little one is throwing a tantrum. As she tries to find a solution to get out so everyone is happy including the little one. Reviewed by Kathleen 7/2/08
Julia's Kitchen by Brenda A. Ferber
Eleven year old, Cara Segal, loses her mother and sister in a house fire and makes the decision without her father's knowledge to carry on her mom's catering business. Cara's dad has created a wall between himself and his surviving daughter leaving many questions Cara has about the tragedy left unspoken.Readers will sympathize with Cara as she attempts to heal her heart without the help of her father but will share her joy as they eventually work through what appears to be an unresolvable situation. Reviewed by Donna 07/02/2008
Time at the Top by Edward Ormondroyd
Ages 9 - 12. I read this book as a young girl and while I couldn't remember much about it as the years went by, I always had this lingering feeling that I needed to rediscover it. It's the story of a girl who travels back in time through the elevator of her apartment building. That's all I could remember - and I wasn't sure it was an elevator (I spent awhile trying to find the book of a girl who travels back in time through a dumbwaiter). Alas, I finally found it and delighted in re-reading it. Not only is the story as wonderful as I remember, the writing is spectacular. "Time at the Top" is the story of Susan Shaw, a young girl in 1960 who lives with her widowed father and is a bit lonely. She's a lively character, an aspiring actress, and definitely one for adventure. She meets a strange woman on the street one day who bestows her with 3 trips into the past. Later that day, when using the buidling's elevator, Susan finds that the "top" is no longer the 8th floor, but the house that stood on the property in 1881! She finds finds friendship and family, buried treasure, adventures of all sorts - and a whole new life. Travelling between 1881 and 1960, Susan tries to convince her father that she's not a missing person, as the police believe, she longs to bring the two lives together - she can't leave her father, but she loves the life in 1881. What to do? Read and find out! I was pleased when I read this as an adult to see that my young self had just as discerning taste as my current self does! This book not only provided a great story - living in a different era was a longing of mine as a young girl (isn't it for all kids at one point or another!). And the writing - oh the writing! The vocabulary, the phrasing, the expressions - all of the highest caliber and just delightful. I encourage you to pick it up - for yourself or your kids. Reviewed by Caroline 07/02/2008
The invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick
Grade 4 and above. At first glance, this story looks like a huge Harry Potter book but when you open the cover and find of it's 533 pages, about 300 are graphite drawings that sometimes span both pages, you will quickly find it lends to a nicely paced book. This particularly delights 4th and 5th graders to be reading such a large volume but as an adult I find it most intriguing the way Selznick incorporates his fascination with the story of a silent film maker, George Méliès, father of sci-fi movies. After viewing several of his magical films and finding that Méliès had automata (mechanical wind up figures), Selznick was inspired to write the story of Hugo. Secrets abound as you turn the pages of this creative combination of not quite a picturebook, not quite a graphic novel, not quite a chapter book. Using the illustrations to draw you in (almost like a silent movie) and telling the story without a lot of text, you find yourself flipping merrily and wondering how this young 12 year old will survive on his own in the walls of the train station in Paris, tending the clocks and remaining anonymous. A cryptic drawing, a mechanical man, and
a stolen key are just some of the mysterious items you encounter along the way. You can view Selznick's webpage to learn more about how he wrote the book which itself is a graphic treat. This is not a typical novel, it's a wonderful fun read for the sheer delight of the difference. Reviewed by Robbin 07/01/2008
Ivy + Bean Break the Fossil Record by Annie Barrows
Grade 1 and up. All of the second graders in Ms. Aruba-Tate's class are inspired by The Amazing Book of World Records. Bean and her best friend Ivy try to set a new record for the world's youngest paleontologists. They start digging in Bean's backyard and find some bones. This book, full humor and second grade insights, will keep readers coming back for more Ivy and Bean adventures. Reviewed by Bea 7/01/08.
Monster, don't eat me! by Carl Norac, pictures by Carll Cneut
Grades 1-3. Alex is a greedy little pig who loves to snack betweeen meals, much to his mother's displeasure. As he is giving into temptation yet again, a big monster comes along, wanting Alex for a snack! Using his wits, Alex manages to avoid being eaten, and is finally saved in the nick of time by the monster's mother, who also disapproved of between-meal snacks. Amusing/scary story, with wonderful detailed illustrations. Picture book, originally translated from Belgian.
Reviewed by Elizabeth 6/30
The Rabbit and the Dragon King retold by Daniel San Souci
The moral of this story, a retelling of a Korean tale from the 7th century, is that you should fully appreciate the life you are living, lest it be plucked from you by illness or apathy. In The Rabbit and the Dragon King, a hypochondriac ruler sends a turtle to find a cure for what ails him. A complacent rabbit is the unwitting victim who cleverly avoids sacrifice while healing herself and the dragon king of their ailments with her will to live. This folk tale retold by Daniel San Souci exposes some of the common symptoms of a comfortable life. The colorful illustrations by Eujin Kim Neilan bring the story to life. An interesting cast of players supports the main characters: the dragon king’s wife (“Belief, not medicine, is what he needs!”), the cuttlefish physician, the puffer fish magician who targets the rabbit as the source of the cure, and a team of volunteers that include a toothy shark, a swordfish, and an octopus. The author’s mention of a relationship between the ancestors of the wise turtle and the clever bunny will help children to feel that they know these characters well. The picture book design, the subtle humor, and the brilliantly detailed art make this book an excellent choice for story time reading for older children.
The author’s model source note credits Korea’s Shila Dynasty, A. D. 642, for the origin of this timeless tale. The tale has often been called The Hare’s Liver, but this version features the rabbit’s heart as the source of the king’s cure. Illustrator Neilan was born in Korea and currently lives in Boston. The note states she has drawn from both Eastern and Western sources in her beautiful depiction of the undersea world of the dragons and the rabbit’s island home. The dramatic brush strokes that overlay the deep tones of the paintings bring texture to the images of the swirling waters of the ocean and rabbit’s island home. This is the second Korean tale compiled by San Souci and Neilan. In the Moonlight Mist, published in 1999, tells the story of good-hearted woodcutter who finds a heavenly wife.
Reviewed by Jacquelyn 6/30/08
Ivan the Terrier by Peter Catalanotto
A parent and child settle in. They open a book. They begin to read a classic, well loved story - Three Billy Goats Gruff, perhaps. Nobody notices, off in the distance, a determined little Jack Russell terrier making his way towards the peacefully grazing goats, until..."ARF! ARF! ARF!" a leaping, yipping ball of energy bursts onto the scene, stampeding the goats and ruining the story. "Ivan! Bad dog!" scolds the narrator, but it does no good. Sighing, adult and child begin a new, equally well known story. But off in the distance...is that that dog again?
Many children will enjoy the disruption of the usual pattern of storytelling, and squirm with anticipation waiting for Ivan to disrupt each in turn. In the end, we can all identify with the story of a dog who is loved, even when he's creating chaos and misbehaving to get attention. Reviewed by Tacy 6/28/08
Art by Patrick McDonnell
A joyous romp through the world of a young child who is having the best time creating art, and by the way his name is Art. Art dances through the pages creating squiggles, doodles and splatters until he is exhausted and falls asleep. When he awakes, his drawings are on the refrigerator, put there by his mother who loves “Art”. Get those paints and crayons ready for your little one and create! Reviewed by Andy 6/27/08
Look! Seeing the light in art by Gillian Wolfe
I found this children's book fascinating and informative. It is an amazing look at the different ways artists use light to create their paintings. Eighteen paintings each by a different artist are shown. The use of light is explained in simple terms. There is an exploration of how each artist used light to add another dimension to their work. The author also asks the reader questions that will engage them in thinking about the paintings. This is a wonderful book about art for both children and adults. I was enthralled. Reviewed by Andy 6/24/08
Phooey! by Marc Rosenthal
Grades 2 and up. "Phooey!" the boy exclaims, "Nothing ever happens around here." So begins a tale of a boy so intent on his boredom that he misses the hilarious and outrageous chain of events happening around him (which incidentally were started by his kick to a can). This book illustrates the saying, "a picture is worth a thousand words." Reviewed by Bea 6/19/08.
Genghis Khan by Enid Goldberg
Grades 5 and up. After seeing the movie, A Night in the Museum, I knew I needed to learn more about the infamous Genghis Khan. I was surprised at the things Khan accomplished at a young age. Khan was smart, but he was also ruthless. This book was to the point and easy to follow and was a quick read. However, I must warn you that this piece of history is not for those with a weak stomach. Reviewed by Bea 6/10/08.
The End of the Beginning by Avi
Grades 2 and up. Avon the snail longs for adventure. He meets up with Edward the ant who encourages Avon to follow his dreams. The two start their travels and meet up with all sorts of interesting dilemmas. For instance, a worm needs help figuring out which end is his front and which is his back. Edward the ant comes up with an inventive solution to worm's quandary. As I read these tales full of puns and word plays, I was reminded of Lobel's Frog and Toad stories. Reviewed by Bea 6/03/08.
The Bronze Pen by Zilpha Keatley Snyder
Grades 5 and up. After 40+ books, Zilpha Keatley Snyder hasn’t lost her touch. Her latest is about 12 year old Audrey who escapes from her troubles (sick father and exhausted, worried mother) by secretly writing stories. Then one day while writing about a girl who can talk to animals, a duck befriends her, and later leads her to a forbidden cave where an old woman gives her a strangely carved bronze pen, admonishing her to “use it wisely and to good purpose.” It soon becomes apparent to Audrey and her new friend Lizzie that the pen has magical powers. With experimentation they learn just what it can and cannot do, and by the end Audrey uses it to very good purpose indeed. A well-written and satisfying story for middle school girls, with a touch of magic. Reviewed by Elizabeth 5/22/08.
Helen Keller: Her Life in Pictures by George Sullivan
Grades 3 and up. I've always been fascinated by the story of Helen Keller. So naturally when this book came in, I immediately checked it out. Nearly every page offers beautiful photographs of Helen Keller to study, as well interesting tidbits to read about her life. For a more complete idea of her story, pair this with one of the library's many biographies on the remarkable Helen Keller. Reviewed by Bea 5/10/08.
Llama Llama Mad at Mama by Anna Dewdney
Preschool and up. Ever witness a shopping meltdown? Llama Llama and his mother are shopping, and Llama Llama reaches his limit. Items in the cart go flying! Fortunately, mama is extremely patient and looks for a solution to turn the fiasco around. Rollicking rhymes move this amusing story quickly along. Reviewed by Bea 04/23/08
Into the Woods by Lyn Gardner
Grades 4-6. This is a fun original romp with elements of well loved fairytales intertwined. Three sisters, domestic Aurora, bold Storm, and precocious baby Any are left on their own. They are pursued by the evil Dr. DeWilde who is trying to steal a tiny musical pipe Storm’s mother gave to her before she died. In their effort to escape, the girls encounter hungry wolves, a candy house, and a grandmother they never knew. A long book with whimsical illustrations that is hard to put down. It would be a great family read aloud. Reviewed by Andy 4/04/08
Spiders by Nic Bishop
The photographs of this book had me entranced - I couldn't believe the level of detail. Since it only includes a few simple factoids about spiders, this book is more for fun browsing than research. Besides the photographs, my favorite thing was reading about the author. Nic Bishop raised some of the spiders in his home in order to catch them on film at various life stages such as molting. Of interest to spider fans of all ages! Reviewed by Bea 04/04/08
Penguin by Polly Dunbar
PreS- K. I can’t wait to debut this story at Preschool Time tomorrow. Ben is given a Penguin as a present, but the Penguin doesn’t say a thing. He just stands there. Ben tries everything he can think of to get the Penguin to say something, without any luck. Will Ben finally become friends with his silent gift? The story takes a twist that reminds me of Pierre by Maurice Sendak. The illustrations employ a lot of white space to draw attention to the action. Reviewed by Aly 03/26/08
Leepike Ridge by Nathan Wilson
Grade 4 and up. Eleven year-old Thomas falls asleep on a raft and ends up swept under Leapike Ridge and stuck in an underground cavern. Here he discovers a body, a dog, and a man who has lived in the cavern for many years, surviving by his wits alone. At home his worried mother refuses to believe Tom is dead. Unsavory characters looking for clues that will lead them to the treasure buried in the cavern where Tom disappeared besiege her. Tom faces many hair-raising challenges in his determination to get home. A real page turner with fast paced adventure to hand to those readers who love survival stories. Reviewed by Andy 03/22/08
Orange Pear Apple Bear by Emily Gravett
K and Up. Can you write a story with just five words? I didn't think it could be done, but this book cleverly arranges and rearranges the words to come up with different meanings. A unique approach for a picture book. Reviewed by Bea 03/15/08
Fred Stays With Me by Nancy Coffelt
K and Up. A young girl splits her time between her mom's house and her dad's. She compares her bed and activities at her different homes, but one thing stays the same at each place - her dog Fred. A tale of comfort for anyone who travels from home to home.Reviewed by Bea 03/07/08
Chester by Melanie Watt
First Grade and Up. The author, Melanie Watt, tries to write a nice story about a mouse, but her cat, Chester, keeps taking over. Chester writes with a red marker, so it is obvious when he is taking over (plus the fact that everything he writes is about himself or cats). A neat way to tell a humorous story. Read to find out who has the last word. Reviewed by Bea 03/07/08
The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart
Fourth Grade and Up. If you enjoyed the Serious of Unfortunate Events, you'll probably like this book. Evil villains, mysteries, humor, puzzles, and orphans who save the day are all included. Reynie, Constance, Kate, and Sticky (who can resist that name) are gifted orphans who are brought together to go undercover and discover what is behind the secret messages that are brainwashing citizens. Not only was I entertained, but I also enjoyed putting my mind to work in order to try to solve some of the puzzles. Reviewed by Bea 03/07/08
Saving The Griffin by Kristin Nitz
Grade 3-6. While staying at a Tuscany estate, Kate and her little brother Michael have spent most of their vacation playing together. During batting practice the two end up finding something amazing under a nearby bush, a baby griffin. The two decide they need to find where the griffin came from before their vacation ends, but they must keep everything a secret from their parents and prying neighbors. Unsure about trusting their older teenage brother with their secret the Kate and Michael almost lose their new friend. Beautiful line drawings accompany each chapter and bring the baby griffin to life. Reviewed by Aly 2/26/08
What will Fat Cat sit on? by Jan Thomas
Toddler and Up. This highly colorful book will have you rolling with laughter. Cartoon like illustrations bring to life familiar animals concerned about where Fat Cat will sit. Repetition and an interactive question format will entertain toddlers, while the humor is sure to make everyone giggle. I can’t wait to read this at storytime. Reviewed by Aly 2/26/08
Ready, Set, Skip! by Jane O'Connor
Preschool and Up. A young girl lists many of the things she can do: twirl, leap, skate, and more. However, she is discouraged because of what she cannot do - skip! Thanks to a little advice from her mom, the girl finds her own skipping rhythm. With this charming book, the author of Fancy Nancy brings us a story that gently reminds us that we can do what we set our minds to... one little hop at a time. Reviewed by Bea 02/19/08
Regarding the Fountain by Kate Klise
Third Grade and Up. Dry Creek's middle school has a leaky fountain, so principal Wally Russ asks designer Flo Waters for an estimate for a new fountain. Flo gets the students involved in the design, and they have some outlandish ideas of their own. What starts as a seemingly simple problem soon turns into an ocean of trouble as a treacherous plot is uncovered. This humorous story is "dripping" with water-based puns and is told through a series of letters, memos, faxes, newspaper clippings, and drawings. Reviewed by Bea 02/19/08
Eight Cousins, or, the Aunt Hill by Louisa May Alcott
Imagine growing up as a child with only your father for a friend, teacher, and parent only to suddenly find yourself orphaned and faced with the prospect of living on Aunt hill with a whole zoo full of relatives including EIGHT NOISY BOY COUSINS! That's just what happens to Rose, the heroine of this sweet little story by Louisa May Alcott (the author of Little Women). Children will love Rose's transformation from a spoiled, sullen, unhappy child into a rose-in-bloom who has nothing but love and goodness in her life, including those eight scary boys :-) and one fabulous Uncle. Reviewed by Catherine 2/12/2008
Epossumondas Saves the Day by Coleen Salley
Preschool and up. Mama's little "sweet patootie" is back in another adventure. This time, Epossumondas' mama is making strawberry shortcake and runs out of sody sallyratus (baking soda). Mama sends several people to get the sody sallyraytus, but they never return. Finally, Epossumondas goes to see what is wrong. The lively illustrations and repeated refrain, "sody, sody sallyraytus," make this tale one that children will request over and over again. Reviewed by Bea 02/06/08
Please Write in This Book! by Mary Amato
Grades 3 and up. Ms. Wurtz leaves a blank notebook in the writing center for her students. They can write anything they want as long as they follow the two rules: sign their names and have fun. However, things start getting out of control as students battle over the notebook. Some of them write outrageously silly things. One story that comes to mind dealt with stinky feet. I felt the students' writing rang true to life. This is a great book for those who are looking for a humorous book along the lines of Captain Underpants. Reviewed by Bea on 01/25/08
A Drowned Maiden's Hair by Laura Amy Schlitz
Grades 4 and up. Eleven year old Maud is thrilled when the Hawthorne sisters adopt her; however, something isn't quite right about the adoption. The sisters tell Maud she must remain a secret child until they trust her enough to let her know their plans. This intriguing plot kept me turning pages! Reviewed by Bea on 01/16/08
The Good Master by Kate Seredy
Ages 8 - 12. This amazing and charming tale was a newbery honor book back in 1936. It tells the story of a young Hungarian boy, Jancsi, and his family whose lives are turned upside down when Kate, Jansci's city cousin, comes to stay with them on the farm. Theirs is a very simple life, one that Kate turns her nose up at first but eventually comes to appreciate and love. Every character in this book is deftly created and this story is guaranteed steal your heart. Also not to be missed is the sequel, The Singing Tree. Reviewed by Catherine 1/10/2008
Henry's Freedom Box by Ellen Levine
Grades 1 and up. Henry is a slave whose longing for freedom becomes more fierce after he is separated from his wife and children because they are sold by their owner. With the help of some friends, Henry ingeniously devises a plan to mail himself to freedom. The stunning artwork by Kadir Nelson brings to life the fictionalized account of this true event. For another story based on someone mailing herself, take a look at Michael Tunnell's Mailing May Reviewed by Bea on 01/08/08
D is for Dancing Dragon by Carol Crane
In this A to Z book Chinese culture and the alphabet are introduced through couplets. The realistic pastel drawings of Zong-Zhou Wang bring each letter to life. Longer accompanying text adds depth to the descriptions of history and geography. Reviewed by Aly 12/31/07
The secret of Priest's Grotto : a Holocaust survival story by Peter Lane Taylor
Grades 5 and up. Imagine living underground for 344 days...no sun, damp conditions, and little food. In 1943, a few families did this. They lived in a cave in the Ukraine in order to escape the Nazis. Gorgeous photos of the cave, maps, and pictures of some of the survivors bring the story to life. As I read the unforgettable story of survival, I was amazed at the resiliency of the human spirit. Reviewed by Bea on 12/31/07
The Aunts Go Marching by Maurie J. Manning
A familiar song is turned into a charming parody when instead of the 'Ants' going on a march it's the march of the 'Aunts.' The illustrations are priceless and it's especially entertaining to watch as the 'Aunts' build from one by one to the amazing parade of 'Aunts' marching along ten by ten. A picture really is worth a thousand words in this fun story. Reviewed by Catherine 12/19/2007
New Clothes for New Year's Day by Hyun-Joo Bae
Kindergarten and up. A young Korean girl dresses in her new clothes for the Lunar New Year. Bae's colorful illustrations richly depict the girl's delight and excitement for her new outfit. Children who enjoy dressing up will relate to this story. Reviewed by Bea on 12/11/07
The Real Story of Stone Soup by Ying Chang Compestine
Ages 5 and up. I've heard the story of stone soup before, and I enjoyed the "real deal." In China, there is a legend about the origins of stone soup, and in some areas of China, they really do serve stone soup. This light-hearted tale with its silly narrator depicts how this special soup may have come to be. Reviewed by Bea on 12/11/07
The Seven Wonders of Sassafras Springs by Betty Birney
Grades 3 and up. Eben longs to travel the world and see some of the wonders he learned about in his history class. He is tired of the boring, rural farm town of Sassafras Springs; there are no wonders to see there. Eben's father disagrees, and he challenges Eben to find seven wonders in seven days. If Eben can accomplish this, his father will send him on a trip. Eben agrees to try, and he begins a remarkable search. This book is replete with good ol' fashioned yarns. Settle in and enjoy. Reviewed by Bea on 11/28/07
How to Steal a Dog by Barbara O'Connor
Grades 4-6. After her family is reduced to living in a car, Georgina hatches a plan to raise some money. The plan?....Steal a dog and then collect the reward money! In her trusty notebook, Georgina begins to record procedures for successful dog theft. Yet as she executes her plan, she finds things are not as simple as they appear. I cried and laughed as I empathized with Georgina's struggle. Reviewed by Bea on 11/24/07
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