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Archive for October, 2009
Thursday, October 29th, 2009
 * * * How Do Dinosaurs Say I Love You?
Author: Jane Yolen
Illustrator: Mark Teague
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Hardcover: 40 pages
Publisher: The Blue Sky Press (October 6, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0545143144
ISBN-13: 978-0545143141
Book description: Parents and children can never have enough ways to say “I love you”–and now, America’s favorite dinosaurs are giving families a funny book, perfect for bedtime, story time, anytime. Even when little dinosaurs are naughty, it’s important to remind them that no matter what they do, they are always loved. In this book, readers will laugh aloud as parents cope with the typical antics of childhood, but in the end, hugs and kisses show your little one how much you care.
Book review: This author-illustrator team does such an awesome job of delivering the message that no matter what a child does, he’s still very loved. I have such a naughty dinosaur at home myself and this book will please him to no end because he absolutely LOVES it when I appreciate his hugs and kisses. He will certainly identify with the dinosaurs in this tale and I will love sharing this story at bedtime. Needless to say, the illustrations are splendid–I love how the dinosaurs portray the many moods and expressions of children from fussing to ‘dragging their feet’–funny! If you’ve read any of the other dinosaur books by this dynamic duo you will definitely love this one.
Tags: Ages 4-8, Author last name Y, dinosaurs, kindergarten, manners, Outstanding titles, Title H, toddlers
Posted in Book Reviews |
Thursday, October 29th, 2009
 * * * Come to the Fairies’ Ball
Author: Jane Yolen
Illustrator: Gary Lippincott
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Wordsong (December 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1590784642
ISBN-13: 978-1590784648
Book description:
Book review: Wonderful! I loved the marriage of rhyme and illustration. Each page is a treasure of story and imaginative art. You’ll find yourself pouring over each page, losing yourself in the detail. Yolen’s writing is superb, filled with sing-song adjectives and verbs that making reading this story out loud a real treat. For lovers of fairies and fairy tales this is a keeper that belongs right next to the classic fairy tales in your bookcase.
Tags: Ages 4-8, Ages 6-10, Author last name Y, fairies, fantasy, Outstanding titles, Title C
Posted in Book Reviews |
Tuesday, October 27th, 2009
 * * * Begin Smart: Animal Faces
Reading level: Baby-Preschool
Bath Book: 8 pages
Publisher: Begin Smart; Ragbk edition (October 6, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1934618047
ISBN-13: 978-1934618042
Book description: The big animal faces in this soft, cloth book will catch baby’s eye immediately. A sewn-in rattle adds to the fun—shake it to capture, keep, and build baby’s attention span.
Book review: This will be your baby’s new best friend. Perfectly made to be a clutch toy. Baby will love reading along with you and bonding with his new best friend. If my teens (twins) were teeny again, I’d have two ordered for Christmas now, that’s how sure I am that this will become a new favorite toy.
Tags: Ages 0-4, animals, baby, Begin Smart, Outstanding titles, Title A, Title B, toddler
Posted in Book Reviews |
Tuesday, October 27th, 2009
 * * * Begin Smart: Look Around
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Bath Book: 8 pages
Publisher: Begin Smart; Bath edition (October 6, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1934618799
ISBN-13: 978-1934618790
Book review: Three out of three stars! Well made, makes noise, colorful and educational. The kind of book your baby can devour (without destroying it) and grow with. Bonus: Older sister or brother can read this one to baby. Win-win!
Tags: Ages 0-4, baby, Begin Smart, Outstanding titles, Title B, Title L, toddler
Posted in Book Reviews |
Tuesday, October 27th, 2009
 * * Begin Smart: Baby Says Cards
Reading level: Baby-Preschool
Cards: 16 pages
Publisher: Begin Smart (October 6, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 193461856X
ISBN-13: 978-1934618561
Book description: Clear, colorful art makes this set of cards on a teether ring the ideal format for babies just beginning to explore and learn for themselves. A butterfly, a fish, a car, a flower, a bird, and much more—all for baby’s eyes to see. When baby needs to chew on something, just direct him away from the cards to the teether ring.
Book review: Now these are worthwhile for the precocious baby…and who doesn’t have one of those? Start your baby naming pictures and matching them to words while he’s teething and build that early vocabulary. Smart and useful.
Tags: Ages 0-4, baby, Begin Smart, Highly Recommended titles, Title B, toddler
Posted in Book Reviews |
Tuesday, October 27th, 2009
 * Begin Smart: Bouncy Baby
Reading level: Baby-Preschool
Board book: 12 pages
Publisher: Begin Smart; Brdbk edition (October 6, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1934618659
ISBN-13: 978-1934618653
Book review: This board book has all that I’ve come to expect from Begin Smart: quality construction, durability, highly colorful illustrations and an engaging educational story…but I am concerned that the peek-a-boo flaps will not last long and overall the story doesn’t stand out among other books like these for babies. There are a LOT of Begin Smart books to choose from and this one is easy to look over once you’ve been spoiled by so many others in the Begin Smart line.
Tags: Ages 0-4, baby, Begin Smart, Recommended titles, Title B
Posted in Book Reviews |
Tuesday, October 27th, 2009
 * The Incredible Upside Down Dog
Author: Kimberly Anne Rutt
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Paperback: 28 pages
Publisher: Mirror Publishing (August 19, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1936046296
ISBN-13: 978-1936046294
Book description: Meet Baxter, the incredible upside down dog. Baxter can do all sort of tricks, but what really excites his owner is when he discovers that Baxter can do tricks upside down.
Book review: Very cleverly done. A colorful way to illustrate a change of perspective and a good lesson for children. They will enjoy the surprise and humor.
Tags: Ages 4-8, Author last name R, dogs, humor, Recommended titles, silly, Title I
Posted in Book Reviews |
Friday, October 23rd, 2009
 * * My Name Is Henry Bibb: A Story of Slavery and Freedom
Author: Afua Cooper
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Hardcover: 160 pages
Publisher: Kids Can Press (September 1, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 155337813X
ISBN-13: 978-1553378136
Book description: Often shocking, always compelling, Afua Cooper’s novel is based on the life of Henry Bibb, an American slave who after repeated attempts escaped in 1841 to become an anti-slavery speaker, author and founder of a Black newspaper. Cooper takes painstakingly researched details about slavery and weaves an intimate story of Bibb’s young life, which is overshadowed by inconceivable brutality. At nine years old, Henry is separated from his mother and brothers and hired out, suffering abuse at the hands of cruel masters so severe he almost dies. Henry’s courageous life is described in intimate detail and young readers will learn about everyday slave life on a plantation and in towns and cities, the coded language of slave escapes and the dangerous routes over land and water to safe houses. As Henry Bibb moves from boyhood to manhood, he knows that one day he will “fly away” as in the old legend of the Africans who flew away to freedom. The first-person narrative, convincingly told in Henry’s voice, traces Bibb’s boyhood, marriage, fatherhood and the developing awareness of his bondage and his determination to break free of it or die.
Book review: This is a sad but compelling story with a somewhat happy ending. I found it to be very inspiring and I loved that it’s all based on true accounts. I recommend this to people interested in American history, slavery and anything historical. I tend to be a huge fan of fantasy and science fiction, but this novel really drew me in and I enjoyed it. ~ R.C., 15 yrs old.
Tags: Ages 12-Up, Ages 9-12, American history, Author last name C, black history, Highly Recommended titles, history, slavery, Title M
Posted in Book Reviews |
Friday, October 23rd, 2009
 * * Anna’s World
Authors: Wim Coleman and Pat Perrin
Reading level: Young Adult
Paperback: 288 pages
Publisher: Chiron Books (July 31, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1935178067
ISBN-13: 978-1935178064
Book description: The United States of America in the late 1840s–a nation torn by the crime of slavery and a war of conquest in Mexico. Fourteen-year-old Anna Coburn doesn’t want to grapple with such terrible issues. Just growing up seems awful enough. Forced from her home and away from her beloved father, Anna is sent to live among the stern people called Shakers. Their strange ways and strict lifestyle are both appealing and difficult for the bright, headstrong Anna. When reunited with her father, Anna is then plunged into upper-class Boston life, where she faces a troubling mystery, new responsibilities, and events that will affect not just herself and her loved ones, but a country about to come apart at the seams. With a cast that includes Henry David Thoreau, a perceptive Shaker schoolmistress, and a murderous false friend, Anna’s World is a powerful coming of age story, widely praised for its vivid characters, gripping plot, and moral stature.
Book review: This historical novel is pretty interesting and one I’d definitely recommend to my friends. I thought the lifestyle of the Shakers was both eye-opening and realistic. I could really get into this story and I liked the characters and setting very much. The story has a good feel to it making it a very relaxing and enjoyable read. Also, the chapters are short making it an easy read for those just getting into longer fiction. ~ R.C., 15 yrs old.
Tags: Ages 12-Up, Ages 9-12, American history, Author last name C, Author last name P, Highly Recommended titles, historical, Shakers, Title A
Posted in Book Reviews |
Tuesday, October 13th, 2009
 * * Fairy Hunters, INK
Author: Sheila A. Dane
Perfect Paperback: 105 pages
Publisher: Dane & Dane, LLC.; First edition (December 29, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0982095600
ISBN-13: 978-0982095607
Book description: “Fairy Hunters, Ink.” is about a small group of intrepid fairy hunters who go about finding fairies.And they are most unusual fairies. There are Button Fairies, Fire Fairies, Picnic Fairies and fairies of all kinds of things. The book is about fairies but it is also about the relationships between the characters themselves. It has been described by one reader as a combination of “Winnie the Pooh” and “Alice in Wonderland”. The characters who thread their way through the book are Ashley, a most curious little girl about 5 years old; Big Rabbit, a stuffed rabbit (but not really stuffed) who is full of knowledge about carrots and many other things; Turtle, whom Ashley and Big Rabbit meet along the way as they chase a particularly mischievous Willow fairy and the narrator, Laura, whose age is never quite clear and who is always getting into trouble along with Ashley. They meet a lot of fairies and a few Gremlins along the way and they learn something about themselves as well. The book is full of word play and rhymes, silliness and seriousness. It can be read to a five year old or by a an eight year old or by an adult.
Book review: Claim your favorite armchair or rocker, grab your softest, most cuddliest blanket and curl up with Fairy Hunters, INK. You’re gonna love it! I love books on fairies and have read as many as the library will share and this book deserves a place among the best. A meandering tale of encounters with real fairies, the kind of story you want to take its time as the world of fairies is revealed to you, one delicate rose petal at a time. I especially enjoyed the narrator’s playful way with Ashley, Big Rabbit and Turtle. I found the journal entries to be intriguing and the best and most accurate details of fairy sightings that I’ve seen in a long time. I would love to see this book in hardback, perhaps with a smaller font to add to that older storybook/fairytale quality–and to make this book a true collectible! I look forward to more from Sheila Dane. An all around great read.
Tags: Ages 6-10, Ages 9-12, Author last name D, fairies, fairytale, fantasy, Highly Recommended titles, Title F
Posted in Book Reviews |
Tuesday, October 13th, 2009
 * * Silver Dragon Codex
Author R.D. Henham
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Hardcover: 256 pages
Publisher: Mirrorstone (September 8, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0786952539
ISBN-13: 978-0786952533
Book description: Jace, a high-wire acrobat in a traveling circus, thought he knew the thrill of adventure. But when he meets Belen, a strange girl with no memory of her past, he soon discovers how much more adventure–and danger–awaits him. Not long after Belen joins the circus, a wizard arrives and stops the show–not by magic, but by accusation. Belen is not human, he says: she is a shapeshifting dragon, who destroyed a nearby town. As Jace and Belen set off in a race against time to clear Belen’s name and recover her memory, mysterious forces conspire to throw them off track. Can Jace learn to fly through the air with the greatest of ease–on the back of a dragon–before time runs out?
Book review: Silver Dragon Codex is the most interesting by far of all the codices that I have read. I like that the assortment of mystical creatures in this one and there’s lots of mystery and suspense. This is a great book to jump into the series with, or get them all and read them one by one. ~ N.C., 15 yrs. old
Tags: adventure, Ages 9-12, Author last name H, Dragon Codex, Dragon Codices, dragons, fantasy, Highly Recommended titles, Title S
Posted in Book Reviews |
Tuesday, October 13th, 2009
 * * * The Scarecrow’s Dance
Author: Jane Yolen
Illustrator: Bagram Ibatoulline
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing (August 25, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1416937706
ISBN-13: 978-1416937708
Book description: The Scarecrow has always stood tall and straight, watching over the corn. Then one magical autumn night, he begins to stir. Free from his post, the scarecrow skips through the fields and leaps past the barn, dancing under the moon. But when he hears a young boy’s prayer for the farm, the scarecrow comes to understand where he belongs, and what he — only he — can do.
Book review: Warm, comforting and homespun, this tale reminds us that we each have a special purpose that only we can fulfill. I found that the illustrations and the poem made for a cozy read. I could just imagine the feel of night and all its sounds and wonder and the warmth of the home that the scarecrow peeks into. His choice to remain a scarecrow sends a message with an easy touch: There’s no place like home. Perfect for this time of year.
Tags: Ages 4-8, Author last name Y, autumn, fall, Outstanding titles, poetry, scarecrows, Title S
Posted in Book Reviews |
Tuesday, October 13th, 2009
 * * * Pumpkin Baby
Author: Jane Yolen
illustrator: Susan Mitchell
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Key Porter Books (July 1, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1554701414
ISBN-13: 978-1554701414
Book description: A soon-to-arrive new brother or sister promises fun and excitement, but can also be worrying for a child who fears being displaced. In Pumpkin Baby, a young girl with an active imagination tries to face her fears. Spurred on by trips with her mother to a family farm, she imagines a host of babies — each with their own unique characteristics — and wonders if she could, indeed, love such a sibling.
Book review: Awww! Jane Yolen nails this tale exactly. Having had the privilege of giving my kiddos little siblings of their own, I can say that Pumpkin Baby very imaginatively, but with great accuracy, tells the tale of a bigger sibling waiting for baby. It’s endearing and so true! Just what you’d expect a little one to imagine when listening to grown-ups talking about a baby on the way. You will love this charming little book and sharing it with your kiddo will help prepare for the big day. Delightful and a joy to read; the illustrations are so adorable and appropriate.
Tags: Ages 4-8, Author last name Y, babies, baby, family, new baby, Outstanding titles, pumpkins, siblings, Title P
Posted in Book Reviews |
Tuesday, October 13th, 2009
 * * * Science Fair Winners: Crime Scene Science
Author: Karen Romano Young
Illustrator: David Goldin
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Paperback: 80 pages
Publisher: National Geographic Children’s Books (September 8, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1426305214
ISBN-13: 978-1426305214
Book description: Crime Scene Science that puts you inside the head—and the toolbox—of modern-day experts in crime solving. Slip under the yellow crime-scene tape to conduct your own experiments: you’ll soon be detecting, inspecting, and connecting the dots of forensic science. Investigate rates of human decomposition; find out what makes fingerprints unique; identify handwriting traits; and discover the secrets of paper fiber analysis.
Each workshop includes suggestions on effective presentation at science fairs, taking experiments one step further, and using science vocabulary correctly. Talk the talk, and walk the walk, your crime scene is this way, Detective.
Book review: This is an invaluable resource for kids and parents. You’ll be inspired and enthused by the many easy to grasp ideas and principal–especially suitable for kids. Instead of the same old electrocuted hot dog, delve into the world of forensics and try new projects that stimulate interest and curiosity. A very hands on way to experience methods used to solve crimes.
Tags: Ages 9-12, Author last name Y, criminology, Outstanding titles, science, science fair, Title C, Title S
Posted in Book Reviews |
Tuesday, October 13th, 2009
 * * Seed, Sprout, Pumpkin, Pie
Author: Jill Esbaum
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Paperback: 16 pages
Publisher: National Geographic Children’s Books (July 28, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1426305826
ISBN-13: 978-1426305825
Book description: Seed, Sprout, Pumpkin, Pie follows Apples for Everyone in the Picture the Seasons series. Follow along as National Geographic takes you from seed to sprout, pumpkin to pie.
Book review: I absolutely love this new series. I can’t think of any better way to visually stimulate your kiddo and get everyone in the mood for the season. Seed, Sprout, Pumpkin, Pie reads like a high-end glossy magazine with outstanding photography. Fill your child’s head with clarifying detail regarding the life of a pumpkin and the harvest season. You’ll want every book in this series – I know I do!
Tags: Ages 4-8, Author last name E, autumn, fall, farm, food, Highly Recommended titles, pumpkins, Thanksgiving, Title S
Posted in Book Reviews |
Tuesday, October 13th, 2009
 * * Apples For Everyone
Author: Jill Esbaum
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Paperback: 16 pages
Publisher: National Geographic Children’s Books; 1 edition (July 28, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1426305230
ISBN-13: 978-1426305238
Book description: Apples for Everyone is a new picture book in the Picture the Seasons series that the whole family can enjoy. Apples for Everyone is a seasonal treasure that will help to shape a National Geographic view of the world for young readers. This delightful look at the fruit of fall is sure to inspire a rich appreciation of all things autumnal.
Book review: Oh. my. goodness! The photography in this book is absolutely STUNNING and mouthwatering. Right away I found myself thinking, “What better way to tempt kids to eat right!” This is a great companion for an autumn or Johnny Appleseed theme or study series. I plan to use this book with my first grader for that very purpose and also when we study apples for science (how an apple tree grows) and art (making designs with cut apples and paint used as stamps). As you can see, much use can come from this awesome little book. Definitely worth the money for teachers, homeschoolers and any parent that wants to encourage their little one to grab an apple for snack! Perfect for autumn.
Tags: Ages 4-8, apples, Author last name E, autumn, fall, farm, food, health, Highly Recommended titles, Title A
Posted in Book Reviews |
Tuesday, October 13th, 2009
 * * Monster Madness
Author: Brenda Sexton
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Board book: 10 pages
Publisher: Silver Dolphin Books; Brdbk edition (August 1, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1592239226
ISBN-13: 978-1592239221
Book description: Little ones help Vinny Vampire, Wendy Witch, Sammy Skeleton, and their monster pals get ready for the biggest night of the year. This adorable Halloween title features a spooky animated surprise on every page — flying ghosts, cackling witches, bats with light-up eyes, and more, plus button-activated sounds and a giant pop-up finale.
Book review: What a treat! Love all the bells and whistles (the music and moving window and the pop-up at the end)–I give it two stars because of these! It’s also a great rhyme with colorful and imaginative illustrations that will coax your reader to practice his/her skills. Definitely sets the mood for Halloween. This will make a great treat for your little goblin.
Tags: Ages 4-8, Author last name S, board book, Halloween, Highly Recommended titles, Title M
Posted in Book Reviews |
Tuesday, October 6th, 2009
 * * * Why Did I Get This Credit Card?
Author: Twyla Prindle
Illustrator: Randy Jennings
Paperback: 48 pages
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0981937292
ISBN-13: 978-0981937298
Book Review: I know that if I want to teach my kids how to handle money responsibly, I turn to Twyla Prindle’s books. Why Did I Get This Credit Card? might seem to be a mature topic for kids but Twyla breaks it down so kids can master the concept along with parental guidance. A great way to prepare your kids for the future, ensuring not only fiscal savvy but good stewardship as well. An outstanding title that I highly recommend.
Tags: Ages 9-12, Author last name P, Christian, credit cards, money, Outstanding titles, tithing, Title W
Posted in Book Reviews |
Tuesday, October 6th, 2009
 * * Can I Have Some Money Please?
Author: Twyla Prindle
Illustrator: Lorie Miller Hansen
Paperback: 32 pages
Publisher: Prindle House Publishing Company (December 2, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0975952722
ISBN-13: 978-0975952726
Book review: Excellent book on tithing and sharing treasure. Easily explains the concept of prosperity and sharing the wealth. Especially useful for helping youngsters think beyond themselves and practice good stewardship.
Tags: Ages 4-8, Author last name P, Christian, Highly Recommended titles, money, tithing, Title C
Posted in Book Reviews |
Tuesday, October 6th, 2009
 * * Mommy’s Pleasures…Children’s Treasures!
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Hardcover: 48 pages
Publisher: Prindle House Publishing Company; first edition (December 13, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 097595279X
ISBN-13: 978-0975952795
Book description: This book is a child anthology with authors as young as 6 years old. Stories designed to grow up with your child from birth to 12 years old. Stories include, “Why Did I Get This Credit Card?” by Twyla Prindle, A Gift for Great-Great Grandma by Tatiyana Roberts and Kamirah Harrell, Please Don’t Jump In The Puddles by Kelli Walker Ferrell, The Mixed Up Alien by Alma Nagle and Socks No Gloves by A.S. Dewitt and many, many more.
Book review: I absolutely enjoyed this collection of stories and poems. Refreshing, imaginative and a pleasure to read! These tales make for great bedtime reading and your child can follow along reading one little story per night–a great way to develop those reading skills. Wonderful illustrations–just a well put together collection of new stories.
Tags: Ages 4-8, Highly Recommended titles, story collection, Title M
Posted in Book Reviews |
Tuesday, October 6th, 2009
 * * Aurora of The Northern Lights
Author: Holly Hardin
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Paperback: 32 pages
Publisher: Outskirts Press (July 22, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1432724398
ISBN-13: 978-1432724399
Book description: Come along as author Holly Hardin conjures a mystical world of adventure, sprites, and magical charms. After losing her parents, little Aurora sets off on her own. Because she’s different, Aurora finds it difficult to find anyone who will listen to her story, even at Christmas time. As her story continues, Aurora receives special gifts to keep her safe and important clues to find her new home.
Book review: I LOVED this story! Wonderful illustrations bring the verse to life. Mythical and magical, it tells the story of a little girl finding her place in this world. My daughters adored the story and this book definitely goes on the shelf to read each Christmas.
Tags: Ages 9-12, Author last name H, Christmas, fairies, fairytale, fantasy, Highly Recommended titles, Title A
Posted in Book Reviews |
Tuesday, October 6th, 2009
 * * Pigeon And Pigeonette
Author: Dirk Derom
Illustrator: Sarah Verroken
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Enchanted Lion Books (September 1, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 159270087X
ISBN-13: 978-1592700875
Book description: Pigeon and Pigeonette is a book about the friendship that develops between a large old blind pigeon and a little pigeon named Pigeonette, whose wings never grow to full size. Unable to fly South, Pigeonette has no choice but to spend her winter in the snowy forest. One day she meets Pigeon as he comes flying and crashing into the big forest trees. Left behind by the other birds, the two pigeons throw in their lots together and become friends, sharing stories and dreams, but also combining forces in their attempt to conquer flight.
Book review: A warm tale about friendship. Perfect to cozy up with and read to your little one as the days grow colder. Each illustration fills the pages making this story funny and endearing. I loved the pigeons’ facial expressions.
Tags: animals, Author last name D, birds, friendship, Highly Recommended titles, Title P Ages 4-8
Posted in Book Reviews |
Tuesday, October 6th, 2009
 * * * Jin Jin And Rain Wizard
Author: Grace Chang
Illustrator: Chong Chang
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Hardcover: 48 pages
Publisher: Enchanted Lion Books (September 29, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1592700861
ISBN-13: 978-1592700868
Book description: Jin Jin and Rain Wizard is a story about rice told through Jin Jin’s adventures. The story opens with Jin Jin bounding out of bed to do his morning T’ai C’hi. After his first set of exercises he prepares to wake up his water breathing pipes by spraying his friends, but all that comes out is dry air. Jin Jin returns home to Crane and Old Turtle, with whom he now is living, feeling sad. Crane tries to cheer Jin Jin up and to get him to eat some breakfast but he is too full to eat, having stuffed himself at the rice festival the day before. As they talk together what becomes clear is that not only did Jin Jin stuff himself, but he threw some rice away.
Old Turtle realizes that the time has come for Jin Jin to learn about the value of rice, so off they go to the gateway to ancient times. By traveling back in time, Jin Jin will learn his lesson about how rice is not to be wasted. There he also will meet Rain Wizard, who will help him regain his water breathing powers, while making sure that he returns home quickly, safely and all the wiser.
Following the story, two additional pages provide an overview of rice in Chinese culture and the mythic figure of Rain Wizard.
Book review: I was very delighted to receive this charming book for review. As with Jin Jin The Dragon, Jin Jin and Rain Wizard appeals on so many levels. Both the story and the illustrations draw the reader in to a wonderful fairytale world populated with endearing unique characters with an excellent moral. The end pages are a great addition as well, rounding out this beautiful story. The Jin Jin books are favorite bedtime stories in this household most definitely.
Tags: Ages 4-8, Author last name C, culture, dragons, fairytale, Outstanding titles, Title J
Posted in Book Reviews |
Tuesday, October 6th, 2009
 * * Begin Smart: How Many Beeps?
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Board book: 12 pages
Publisher: Begin Smart (October 6, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1934618551
ISBN-13: 978-1934618554
Book review: Ohhhhh! For the boy that loves trucks this book has it all. Counting, real beeping, and trucks galore. Take it to the next level–don’t just read about trucks, beep about trucks. Loved it. Loved the rhyme, the interactive horn, the colors. An all around good book for this age group.
Tags: Ages 0-4, babies, Begin Smart, board book, Highly Recommended titles, infant, Title B, Title H
Posted in Book Reviews |
Tuesday, October 6th, 2009
 * * * Begin Smart: Peek-a-boo What?
Reading level: Baby-Preschool
Board book: 18 pages
Publisher: Begin Smart (October 6, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1934618500
ISBN-13: 978-1934618509
Book description: Peek-a-boo isn’t a baby’s favorite game just by chance: after a first birthday, a baby begins to understand that even when something isn’t in his sight, it still exists. He expects that a person or an object will reappear eventually—and when the anticipated finally happens, he’s delighted. This charming book, with flaps to lift and see-through die cuts, will help little ones solidify object permanence. There’s even a place for a photo so that the answer to “peek-a-boo, who?” can be a family member . . . or perhaps the reader!
Book review: Outstanding and fun! Your little one will delight in this picture book and have fun as each page unfolds and shows the surprise inside. Loved the colors, the see-through cut-outs and the surprise ending as described above. A keeper.
Tags: Ages 0-4, babies, Begin Smart, board book, infant, Outstanding titles, Title B, Title P
Posted in Book Reviews |
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* * * How Do Dinosaurs Say I Love You?
