* * * Sir Reginald’s Logbook
Author: Matt Hammill
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Kids Can Press, Ltd. (September 1, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1554532027
ISBN-13: 978-1554532025

Book description: Author-illustrator Matt Hammill has created a tongue-in-cheek adventure story where fantasy and reality merge, with hilarious results. The eponymous hero is an armchair explorer on a quest for a Lost Tablet of Illusion, stolen by an elusive beast. Sir Reginald’s quest takes the reader on a journey through figments and flights of imagination on one hand, and through his mild-mannered home life on the other. Is that the deafening buzz of the carnivorous elephant beetle – or Sir Reginald’s alarm clock? Does the tiger-stripe viper lie stretched across his path – or is it a sock? What is the nature of this Lost Tablet and its awesome power? As Sir Reg veers comically between worlds, the imagination emerges as the most powerful charm of all.

Book review: Funny! A good read. Great story. Will appeal to your kiddo’s imagination. Lots of giggles to share. A favorite of mine.

* * America Votes – How Our President is Elected
Author: Linda Granfield
Illustrator: Steve Bjorkman
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Paperback: 64 pages
Publisher: Kids Can Press, Ltd. (September 1, 2005)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1553379896
ISBN-13: 978-1553379898

Book review: Perfect for this time of year and the upcoming presidential election. The perfect companion to the news your child will digest during this historic time. Puts politics within the grasp of your child in this makes-it-so-easy guide to our electoral process for kids.

* * Robots From Everyday To Out of This World
Author: Editors of YES Mag
Hardcover: 48 pages
Publisher: Kids Can Press, Ltd. (October 1, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1554532035
ISBN-13: 978-1554532032

Book description: The word ‘robot’ may remind us of science fiction, but robots today are a science fact. Their role in our lives is growing all the time. The authors of the acclaimed and bestselling Fantastic Feats and Failures and Science Detectives present a detailed look at robots yesterday, today and in the future. See robots at work (and play) in homes, factories, wrestling rings, sewers, hospitals, oceans and outer space. Learn about their many different shapes, sizes and uses and meet robots who do dangerous and dirty jobs, help perform surgery, look like us, show emotion like us and much more. Did you know? In the 1700s, a Swiss craftsman and his son built a mechanical boy who could write short messages. Robo soccer is the most popular robotic sport. Robopets can purr, sleep, play games and even tell jokes. The Amphibot can swim by snaking its body back and forth, then hit the shore and start walking. The humanlike robot ASIMO can balance on one foot while kicking a soccer ball.

Book review: This is the kind of book that kids who love robots and machines devour. Simply fascinating. Will appeal to the sci-fi and science minded kiddos in your life.

* Berkeley’s Barn Owl Dance
Author: Tera Johnson
Illustrator: Tania Howells
Reading level: Ages 4-8, 6-10
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Kids Can Press, Ltd. (October 1, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1554532639
ISBN-13: 978-1554532636

Book description: At the biggest barn owl dance of the year, the Leave the Nest Fall Fest, keen dancer Berkeley shines as usual. Next moonrise, however, she and her fellow fledglings Bo and Bree must leave home. Though Berkeley is frightened, the winking, smiling, laughing moon lights her way. After thousands of silent wingbeats, she finds a new audience, and Flippity, Tappity, Clap Clap Clap, Berkeley’s new barn dance begins.

Book review: Just a good old-fashioned feel good story about growing up and change. A great book for kiddos making a major transition in their own lives (like moving to a new home and starting at a new school). A terrific bedtime story, too.

* * * Who Discovered America?
Author: Valerie Wyatt
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Paperback: 40 pages
Publisher: Kids Can Press, Ltd. (September 1, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1554531292
ISBN-13: 978-1554531295

Book description: Who discovered America? There’s no simple answer. The question points to an ongoing mystery of continent-sized proportions. Christopher Columbus stumbled upon America in 1492 while looking for a western route to the Indies, but he wasn’t the first. The Vikings settled briefly on the coast of Newfoundland hundreds of years before him, and left ruins to prove it. Explorers from Portugal, China, Scotland, Wales, Ireland and elsewhere can also stake claims. In addition to investigating all serious claims, award-winning author Valerie Wyatt delves into the continents’ most ancient mysteries, some stretching back 40,000 years. Who Discovered America? reveals that historical sleuthing takes many years of hard work, puzzle solving and comparing legends and artifacts. Young readers will find the question of who discovered America much less simple, and much more fascinating, than they ever dreamed.

Book review: I love books like these that make history and social science so interesting. Photographs, illustrations and fact boxes make this forensic look at history come alive. Absolutely perfect for this age group because they are totally into ‘discovering the world’ around them.

* * * Gotcha! 18 Amazing Ways To Freak Out Your Friends
Author: David Acer
Illustrator: Stephen MacEachern
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Paperback: 48 pages
Publisher: Kids Can Press, Ltd. (September 1, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1554531950
ISBN-13: 978-1554531950

Book description: A book full of knowledge and know-how, Gotcha! demystifies some age-old mysteries and shows kids that it’s easy to be a master of illusion. Doubting Dave and the Mystery Hunters take readers behind the scenes of the world’s oldest and coolest mysteries. Then they show kids how to re-create those mysteries to fool their friends. This interactive book is also full of interesting and bizarre background information on each mystery. With step-by-step instructions, easy-to-find materials (and sometimes no materials at all) kids can:Hypnotize a friend
Turn a pencil into gold
Test their house for ghosts
Make Bigfoot prints
Make a fake UFO photo and video
Make their own lake monster video

Book review: This is a book that totally lives up to the television show and I am so happy about that – great show that I recommend. Packed with facts, experiments and lots of fun it’s sure to engage your kiddo especially if he or she needs a little coaxing when it comes to reading.

* * * Chester’s Back!
Author: Melanie Watt
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Kids Can Press, Ltd. (September 1, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1554532876
ISBN-13: 978-1554532872

Book description: In this uproarious sequel to Chester, the battle of the picture-book makers continues. Which author-illustrator will come out on top – Chester or Melanie Watt – is anybody’s guess!This time, there’s no denying (in Chester’s mind) that he’s the star of the show. His already outsize ego has ballooned even more due to a spate of fan mail on the heels of his self-titled debut. As Chester sees it, who needs Melanie Watt when they have Chester? He’s got no shortage of his own storytelling ideas. With heavy paw and red marker, this control-freak cat does not hesitate to commit them to paper. When Chester starts acting far too Hollywood, Melanie calls an open audition to replace the high-maintenance feline. This isn’t a move that Chester will take lying down. Get ready for a seesaw comedy of dueling author-illustrators. Who will come out on top is anybody’s guess!

Book review: I am a HUGE Chester fan and was thrilled to read this latest book by Melanie Watt. Chester is up to his antics again in this hilarious and fun book that Ms. Watt just can’t write without Chester’s help. Parents, if you are looking for a book that will quickly become a favorite, this is the one. I can’t recommend Chester enough.

* * * Looking Closely Inside The Garden
Author: Frank Serafini
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Hardcover: 40 pages
Publisher: Kids Can Press, Ltd. (September 1, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1554532108
ISBN-13: 978-1554532100

Book description: Look closely. Look very closely. Is it…a stained-glass window? A jigsaw puzzle? Give up? Just turn the page and, lo and behold, it’s a monarch butterfly. See what looks like a pair of chopsticks revealed as a mormon cricket, a sponge as a strawberry, and many more surprises when you look closely into the garden. The Looking Closely series takes children on a journey of discovery through four environments – the forest, the shore, the desert and the garden. Frank Serafini’s camera lens enlarges each world through the magic of close-up photography. Young eyes will rediscover our planet as a place of beauty, mystery and delight. Readers are first challenged to guess the identity of each closeup photograph. The next page reveals the entire photograph of the plant, animal or natural object accompanied by a simple but detailed description of the habitat. By inspiring children to ask questions and use their imaginations, these books help build problem-solving skills. They also encourage curiosity about environments that, examined this closely, are full of unexpected wonders.

Book review: Outstanding photographs. This series will amaze you. A wonderful way to discover the world for this age group. This is the kind of book that gets my kiddo outside exploring. We read the book, then out we go looking through our garden to see what we might find.

* * * Looking Closely Across The Desert
Author: Frank Serafini
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Hardcover: 40 pages
Publisher: Kids Can Press, Ltd. (September 1, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1554532116
ISBN-13: 978-1554532117

Book description: Look closely. Look very closely. Is it…a pincushion? Monster’s skin? Give up? Just turn the page and, lo and behold, it’s a prickly pear cactus. See what looks like cornsilk revealed as sandstone, a birthday candle as a saguaro cactus flower, and many more surprises when you look closely across the desert. The Looking Closely series takes children on a journey of discovery through four environments the forest, the shore, the desert and the garden. Frank Serafini’s camera lens enlarges each world through the magic of close-up photography. Young eyes will rediscover our planet as a place of beauty, mystery and delight. Readers are first challenged to guess the identity of each closeup photograph. The next page reveals the entire photograph of the plant, animal or natural object accompanied by a simple but detailed description of the habitat. By inspiring children to ask questions and use their imaginations, these books help build problem-solving skills. They also encourage curiosity about environments that, examined this closely, are full of unexpected wonders.

Book review: Outstanding photographs! This book will draw in your curious, fact finding young reader. Perfect for the early reader giving both a visual feast and all the facts a little mind can hold.

* * * Painting The Wild Frontier: The Art & Adventures of George Catlin
Author: Susanna Reich
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Hardcover: 176 pages
Publisher: Clarion Books; 1 edition (August 25, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0618714707
ISBN-13: 978-0618714704

Book description: George Catlin is one of America’s best-known painters, famous for his iconic portraits of Native Americans. He spent much of his life in the wilderness, sketching and painting as he traveled. A solo trek across 500 miles of uncharted prairie, an expedition to the Andes, harrowing encounters with grizzly bears and panthers, and tours of the royal palaces of Europe were among his many adventures.
In an era when territorial expansion resulted in the near annihilation of many indigenous cultures, George Catlin dedicated himself to meeting and writing about the native peoples of the western hemisphere. With his “Indian Gallery” of paintings and artifacts, he toured the United States and Europe, stirring up controversy and creating a sensation.

Award-winning author Susanna Reich combines excerpts from Catlin’s letters and notes with vivid depictions of his far-flung travels. Generously illustrated with archival prints and photos and Catlin’s own magnificent paintings, here is a rollicking, accessible biography that weaves meticulously researched history into a fascinating frontier and jungle adventure story.

Book review: A unique view of history! Incredibly filled with details. Homeschoolers – this is a GREAT book for your home library and a wonderful resource for history, social studies and art. I find that my kids ‘get’ history more through art and personal accounts and this book really delivers. A must have.

* * Everywear
Author: Ellen Warwick
Illustrator Bernice Lum
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Hardcover: 80 pages
Publisher: Kids Can Press, Ltd. (October 1, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1553377990
ISBN-13: 978-1553377993

Book description: It’s never been easier (or easier on the wallet) to create frugal and fashionable accessories that embody seriously unique chic. In keeping with the spirit of the Planet Girl series, Everywear encourages crafters to check basements, junk drawers and nooks and crannies for recyclable treasures before heading to the craft supply or hardware store. Introductory sections also include the tips girls will need to get started, including the lowdown on sewing, using tools, and more.
Everywear is divided into the following sections:

UPDO IT – Swish hair sticks, Fab flower hair combs and other ways to swank up the ol’ do, whether it’s short n’ sassy or long n’ luxurious.

FLASH IT – Perk-me-up jewelry ideas including a Va-va-voom vinyl wristband, Rings that rock and other projects to dazzle and adorn.

WEAR IT – A too-cute tulip hat, Superstar sweater cuffs and other wearables to add a little ooh-la-la to any ensemble.

STRUT IT – Fab bags to lend that finishing touch to a smashing outfit.

Book review: As per the other books by Warwick, a great book for crafty girls – make something out of anything! I have thoroughly enjoyed all of Warwick’s crafty books and I love sharing them with my daughter’s and nieces. A great series.

A great resource for projects for 4-H, Girl Scouts, and homemade gifts.

* * My Letter To The World & Other Poems
Author: Emily Dickenson
Illustrator: Isabelle Arsenault
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Paperback: 48 pages
Publisher: Kids Can Press, Ltd. (October 1, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1554533392
ISBN-13: 978-1554533398

Book description: This is My Letter to the World and Other Poems by Emily Dickinson is illustrated by Isabelle Arsenault.

Book review: Wonderful how the illustrations bring Dickenson’s poetry to life! Great for expanding your child’s imagination and experience of poetry. This is a book that would be a wonderful gift for high school students, making Emily Dickenson easily relevant for them.

* Martin Bridge: The Sky’s The Limit
Author: Jessica Scott Kerrin
Illustrator: Joseph Kelly
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Paperback: 112 pages
Publisher: Kids Can Press, Ltd. (September 1, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1554531594
ISBN-13: 978-1554531592

Product description: Martin Bridge and the rest of the Junior Badgers can’t wait for the fireworks show on the weekend. When Martin’s cousin Fletcher arrives to stay at his house, his guest is not so excited about fireworks, or about Martin’s space hero Zip Rideout. All Fletcher wants to do is read thick books with no pictures. Do the cousins have more in common than it appears? In the second story, Martin is struggling to contain his excitement. He’s sure he’s due to receive his prize for the Zip Rideout Trivia Contest – Zip’s Space Race Game, deluxe edition. This must be what his Dad meant when he said that his parents have a surprise for Martin. He gets so carried away that he invites all his classmates over. Did Martin ever stop to think that the surprise might not be what he hopes? Join Martin Bridge as he reaches for the sky with two new stories and some activities to help kids explore the universe.

Book review: A great series for boys (and girls) and their parents who enjoyed Beverly Cleary and Judy Blume. Martin is a character that would surely be my son’s best bud in real life. I really liked the engaging writing style and the not too heavy-handed lessons. A good mix that pleases kiddos and parents. Best of all, another series to encourage my son to read more.

* No Girls Allowed
Author: Susan Hughes & Willow Dawson
Paperback: 80 pages
Publisher: Kids Can Press, Ltd. (September 1, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1554531780
ISBN-13: 978-1554531783

Book Description: A female pharaoh? A woman general in the Kahn’s army? A female Viking raider? No way, you say? Look again. Appearances can be deceiving… Based on legends, poems, letters and first-hand accounts, these seven biographical tales tell of women who disguised themselves as men. From ancient Egypt through the Middle Ages to the 19th century, this historically accurate graphic treatment is perfect to transport readers back to bygone eras. The lives of these daring women were often filled with danger and the fear of discovery. However, for the sake of freedom, ambition, love or adventure, these women risked everything. No Girls Allowed brings a contemporary edge to a part of history largely untold – until now.

Book review: A shot of women’s history packed into this short graphic novel. Worthwhile reading for kiddos interested in comics – a little something to think about that you can slip under their radar.

* * Why Do Cats Have Whiskers?
Author: Elizabeth MacLeod
Hardcover: 64 pages
Publisher: Kids Can Press, Ltd. (October 1, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1554531969
ISBN-13: 978-1554531967

Book Description: Did you know that cats can smell over 200 million different scents? Or that you can communicate with your cat just by blinking?

These are just a few of the cat facts to discover in this ultimate companion book for young cat owners and admirers. How did cats and humans begin to live together? How were cats treated in ancient times? Why do cats like to bump up against you? How do you know if a cat is pedigreed?

Here you’ll find the answers to these and many more questions, plus lore, legends, superstitions, hero-stories, quizzes and cat training tips.

Boo review: Detailed, filled with facts, history and tons of photos – perfect for the cat lover and kids into animals. The perfect balance of fact and fun.