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Posts Tagged ‘Ages 6-10’
Tuesday, August 31st, 2010
 + + + + I See The Sun in China
Author: Dedie King
Illustrator: Judith Inglese
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Paperback: 40 pages
Publisher: Satya House Publications; First edition (October 1, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0981872050
ISBN-13: 978-0981872056
Book description: I See the Sun in China follows a young child as she travels from a small town to the city of Shanghai, portraying the events that take place from dawn until night over the course of that one day. The story is very simple, yet designed to give an insight into the culture of China from a child’s perspective. The unspoken message of this book is the movement from the old to the new, while still maintaining some connections with the past. It depicts some of the many choices available in China today, and the drive to be successful in a modern world.
Written in both English and Mandarin Chinese, I See the Sun in China is beautifully illustrated with warm, engaging collages made from photographs, paper cut-outs, and drawings. As with the other books in the I See the Sun series, children will be able to recognize the similarities as well as the differences between their own culture and the culture of modern China.
Book review: Beautifully illustrated and realistic, this book is perfectly portioned giving readers a broad taste of old and modern China. I loved the child’s perspective and reflection about day and her own future. Young readers will find this book new, interesting and yet very identifiable. A great taste of China! Parents and homeschoolers – this is a great book/series to add to your collection.
Tags: Ages 6-10, Author last name K, China, countries, culture, Highly Recommended titles, Title I Ages 4-8
Posted in Book Reviews |
Thursday, May 27th, 2010
 + + + +Donner The Western Dragon
Author: Suzanne Davis Marion
Illustrator: Marj Hales
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Paperback: 40 pages
Publisher: BookSurge Publishing (November 27, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1439252041
ISBN-13: 978-1439252048
Book description: Donner the Western Dragon lived in a cold northern forest with his parents, brother and sister, and several other dragon families. Western dragons were noted for their warlike and fierce demeanor. The young dragons spent much of their spare time in rough-and-tumble games, snorting fire at one another, wrestling and fighting. While all the other young dragons were tumbling about and breathing fire all over the grass, flowers and trees, Donner much preferred romping and playing with his best friend, Una. Everyone found it strange that Una should be Donner’s best friend, as Una was a unicorn, an animal noted for its gentle disposition. Donner’s father and the other dragons mocked Donner for his quiet demeanor. They accused him of behaving like a peaceful Eastern dragon. He was an embarrassment to them. In an unexpected twist of fate, Donner’s unique personality and talents enabled him to intervene in a frightening situation, and become a hero, appreciated and commended by all.
Book review: Suzanne Davis Marion doesn’t talk down to her readers and I really loved that about her story. Donner The Western Dragon weaves magic both in text and in beautiful detailed illustration and enchants readers right into the story. You simply MUST find out what happens next. I recommend this book especially for advanced young readers/listeners who relish a more sophisticated story. You won’t be disappointed with Donner The Western Dragon.
Tags: adventure, Ages 4-8, Ages 6-10, Author last name M, dragons, fantasy, Highly Recommended titles, Title D
Posted in Book Reviews |
Monday, May 24th, 2010
 + + + The Chicken Thief
Author: Beatrice Rodriguez
Reading level: Ages 4-8, 6-10
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Enchanted Lion Books (May 1, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1592700926
ISBN-13: 978-1592700929
Book description: In this wordless story that is both funny and sweet, a fox steals a hen away from her home. Bear, rabbit, and rooster give chase, but in a twist on the usual children’s story, this fox is not a villain. Rather, he tenderly holds hen as he runs into the night.
Book review: Sweet. Funny. A love story. The Chicken Thief will get your little reader thinking about story and details and encourage a new story each read.
Tags: Ages 4-8, Ages 6-10, animals, Author last name R, friendship, humor, love, Recommended titles, Title C
Posted in Book Reviews |
Tuesday, March 23rd, 2010
 + + + The Adventures of Cosmic Gorf
Author/illustrator: Samuel Vera
Publisher: Crazee Comics, November 2008
Ages: 6-10
http://www.crazeecomics.com
Book description: In a far off Galaxy, on the planet Krystalia, a daring student of the Academy convinces the heir to the kingdom; Princess Reyna to embark on the adventure of their lives. They never anticipated the danger ahead nor the company of young Doodarius from the planet Uranus. Get ready to join them on a wild ride of fun and adventure.
Book review: Another fun and hilarious adventure from Samuel Vera. Doodie fans will love The Adventures of Cosmic Gorf. These little comics are easy to read, hooking the reader with gag after gag.
Tags: Ages 6-10, Ages 9-12, Author last name V, comic book, Crazee Comics, graphic novel, humor, Recommended titles, silly, Title A, Title C
Posted in Book Reviews |
Tuesday, March 23rd, 2010
 + + + The OoGoolie BooGoolie’s
Author/illustrator: Samuel Vera
Publisher: Crazee Comics, November 2008
Ages: 6-10
http://www.crazeecomics.com
Book description: Remember when you were a kid and you heard about all of those things that go bump in the night? Well, for this one boy it all comes true. Journey into a spooky tale of monsters in the closet, under the bed, in the bathroom and more. This nursery rhyme is sure to give you goose bumps.
Book review: Silly and just as fun as Vera’s other creations! Reminds me somewhat of Shel Silverstein’s work. Those who enjoyed Doodie’s Adventures will enjoy The OoGoolie BooGoolie’s.
Tags: Ages 6-10, Author last name V, comic book, Crazee Comics, graphic novel, humor, Recommended titles, scary, silly, Title O
Posted in Book Reviews |
Monday, March 22nd, 2010
 + + + + The Turtle’s Dream and Keys
Author/Illustrator: Benrali
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Only1Earth LLC; 1st edition (September 12, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0976335425
ISBN-13: 978-0976335429
Book description: The Turtle’s Dream And Keys is a picture book inspired by the brightly colored species of box turtle, the Eastern Box Turtle of Eastern United States and Canada. Benrali has combined a love for naturalism, dreams, fantasy and poetry into a gift book which can be enjoyed by many age groups. Weaving detailed pen and ink garden drawings, etchings and watercolors readers are taken back into time through a box turtle’s dream.
Book review: Absolutely stunning and breathtaking artwork with a story that intrigues and weaves a dreamy world in the reader’s imagination. Follow Jupiter the box turtle through this imaginative read and see what a box turtle dreams. Children and adults will enjoy this story and immerse themselves in the colorfully detailed artwork, page after page. You must experience The Turtle’s Dreams and Keys.
Tags: Ages 4-8, Ages 6-10, animals, Author last name B, bedtime story, dreams, gift book, Highly Recommended titles, poetry, Title T, turtles
Posted in Book Reviews |
Saturday, March 20th, 2010
 + + + + The People Could Fly
Author: Virginia Hamilton
Illustrators: Leo Dillon and Diane Dillon, PhD
Reading level: Ages 6-10
Hardcover: 192 pages
Publisher: Knopf Books for Young Readers; 1st edition (January 13, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0394869257
ISBN-13: 978-0394869254
Book description: Many of the stories in this collection were told among slaves as they dreamt of freedom or remembered their lives in Africa. Hamilton focuses on several themes—animal tales, magical and supernatural tales, and tales of freedom—and following each story is a note explaining its history and meaning. Black-and-white illustrations by Caldecott Medalists Leo and Diane Dillon round out this important book. (Synopsis by Barnes & Noble)
Book review: This book is full of many intriguing sort stories. You can read them all at once, or maybe once a day. This book would be great for bedtime stories if you have kids.
Here’s the breakdown:
Hook/Setting: Out of the many stories the setting is are good and you are drawn into the stories each time.
Character(s): This book has numerous characters from Bruh Rabbit to Jack to Bruh Alligator. These characters are as memorable as fairy tale characters such as Cinderella, Red Rose, Jack and the Beanstalk, etc.
Events/Plot: This book is full of various plots and events, each one as good as the last.
Reader Excitablility/Overall Presentation: I liked that the way stories were worded because it was as if someone was telling the story to you directly. I recommend this book to fans of folktales and fairytales.
Review by N.C., 15-yrs old.
Tags: Ages 6-10, Ages 9-12, Author last name H, black history, fairytale, folktale, Highly Recommended titles, Title P
Posted in Book Reviews |
Tuesday, March 9th, 2010
 + + + + Monster Fliers: From the Time of Dinosaurs
Author: Elizabeth MacLeod
Illustrator: John Bindon
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Kids Can Press, Ltd. (February 1, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1554531993
ISBN-13: 978-1554531998
Book description: While the dinosaurs walked the earth, pterosaurs (flying reptiles), ancient birds and other monster fliers ruled the skies. John Bindon s illustrations, created with the help of the latest fossil research, bring nineteen of these long-vanished creatures to life with startling brilliance. Some of these monster fliers were as small as a crow, others as big as a small plane.
Monster Fliers brings together the latest research in clear, engaging text and dramatic illustrations, making it a great addition to a young child s dinosaur collection. The book includes a timeline to show when these creatures lived as well as a chart indicating their relative sizes.
Book review: I gave this one four pluses because it’s all about the winged creatures which is fascinating both in narration and illustration–a must have for dinosaur lovers. Usually T-Rex and the other land dwellers rule these sorts of books, but not so with Monster Fliers. Meet every sort of winged creature there ever was and savor every detail and fact.
Tags: Ages 6-10, Ages 9-12, Author last name M, birds, dinosaurs, flying dinosaurs, Highly Recommended titles, reptiles, Title M
Posted in Book Reviews |
Saturday, February 27th, 2010
 + + + + Changing of The Guard: The Yellowstone Chronicles
Author/Illustrator: Ted Rechlin
Paperback: 38 pages
Publisher: Outskirts Press (December 15, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1432750089
ISBN-13: 978-1432750084
Book description: Merging past and present, Changing of the Guard: The Yellowstone Chronicles tells the story of the daily life of the wild inhabitants of Yellowstone National Park, both seventy million years ago and today. Told in documentary style, Ted Rechlin’s wonderful book is full of vivid illustrations depicting Yellowstone as you have never seen it before. Discover the story of the dinosaurs continues every day in the lives of the great mammals that roam the park today. Changing of the Guard beautifully depicts Bison and Triceratops side by side, Wolves and Raptors shoulder to shoulder, and the mighty Tyrannosaurus Rex and the imposing Grizzly Bear alongside one another.
Book review: VERY nicely done! Your kids will marvel over the illustrations and thoroughly enjoy the comparison of yesterday and today in Yellowstone National Park. When my children were young they devoured just about every dinosaur book they could get their hands on, but Ted Rechlin takes it one step further by illustrating animals of yesterday and today side by side. Kids will gobble it up while gaining a true appreciation and education of one of our national parks–a great educational tool!
Tags: Ages 6-10, Ages 9-12, animals, Author last name R, dinosaurs, graphic novel, Highly Recommended titles, Title C, Yellowstone
Posted in Book Reviews |
Saturday, February 27th, 2010
 + + + Make That a Table For Seven
Authors: Angie and Storm Davis
Illustrator: Dan Drewes
Paperback: 20 pages
Publisher: AuthorHouse (February 1, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1449072739
ISBN-13: 978-1449072735
Book description: “Make That a Table for Seven” is a story about two bears left in the woods looking for a home. Ferbie and Peppie are scared and alone and do not think anyone really wants them. One night before dinner, there is a knock at the Grizzly’s door, and there stands Ferbie and his sister Peppie. The Grizzly Family is immediately drawn to these two lonely cubs and offer them their home. The Grizzly children, Zeus, Smoo, and Princess, are excited to share their family and have another brother and sister. It is a story, based on real life events, of love, rescue, and redemption from lonely places to safe places. It is about a family expanding in number and love. It is a story that challenges us all to be the hands and heart of God to children in need.
Book review: I can’t think of a better book to celebrate forever families for every kiddo that is so blessed. This story is told in a very matter-of-fact and loving way making those who read it feel as welcome as the two adopted bear cubs. Perfect for families that will be bringing new cubs into their clan.
Tags: adoption, Ages 4-8, Ages 6-10, Author last name D, families, Recommended titles, Title M
Posted in Book Reviews |
Thursday, February 18th, 2010
 + + + Scary Aerie
Author/illustrator: Samuel Vera
Publisher: Crazee Comics, November 2008
Ages: 6-10
http://www.crazeecomics.com
Book description: This is the tale of a girl named Arianna LeBlanc, who moved to a small town in Colorado and made all the mean children disappear. No one is certain of the facts; at least no one who survived. Well, that’s not completely true. There is one person who lived to tell of the time when Scary Aerie came to town. Wait to you hear this story. Boy, it’s a scary one!
Book review: Scary, engaging and cool. Scary Aerie is the perfect tale to haunt your imagination!
Here’s the breakdown:
Characters: Scary Aerie is the kid we’ve all been or known in school who gets teased…just because.
Events/story line: How this child handles bullies is both scary and rewarding.
Illustrations: Great illustrations bring this tale to fruition.
Reader relevance: 6-10 yr. olds will relate having witnessed bullying tactics at school. They will love the ‘ghost tale’ woven to explain Arianna’s revenge.
Reader Excitability/ Overall Presentation: A sleepover with mom telling the tale of Scary Aerie is the perfect format for this age group.
Tags: Ages 6-10, Author last name V, comic book, ghost story, girls, graphic novel, Recommended titles, scary, Title S
Posted in Book Reviews |
Wednesday, February 17th, 2010
 + + + Doodies Adventures, Vol 1, Diabolical Egomaniac Overlord Nemesis
Author/illustrator: Samuel Vera
Publisher: Crazee Comics, December 2008
Ages: 6-10
http://www.crazeecomics.com
Book description: Every day, young Doodarius must deal with a school bully. He decides the only way to stop this “Diabolical Egomaniac Nemesis Pooh-Pooh” is to call on Super Doodie. But wait, is he really a super hero?
Book review: Hilarious! Get back at bullies by escaping into Doodie’s world of adventure and bathroom humor where Doodie is a kickin’ superhero.
Here’s the breakdown:
Characters: Laugh-out-loud funny. Kids will easily cheer this would-be superhero and razz the arch-nemesis.
Events/story line: Unique due to ribald humor. Will delight most kids in the 6-10 year age range, especially boys.
Illustrations: Appealing and humorous.
Reader relevance: Samuel Vera channels 6-10-yr old humor and imagination precisely.
Reader Excitability/ Overall Presentation: Not a bad presentation. Instead of bubble captions, Vera prints speech in paragraph format alternating text and illustrations by page. For this book, it reads like text on a computer screen which is appropriate for this story.
Tags: adventure, Ages 6-10, Author last name V, comic book, Crazee Comics, graphic novel, humor, Title D
Posted in Book Reviews |
Tuesday, January 12th, 2010
 + + Inside Out
Author/Illustrator: Marilyn Randall
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Interest level: Ages 6-10
Hardcover: 28 pages
Publisher: Lulu.com (November 7, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0557156998
ISBN-13: 978-0557156993
Book description: A fun story, written in the poetry format, about a little frog who thought God had made a mistake and made him ugly. It is about learning that beauty is truly found on the inside and that each of us has our own gifts to offer the world and that we are all beautiful in our own way.
Book review: Marilyn Randall’s stunning ink sketches make this story come alive.
Here’s the breakdown:
Characters: Froggie, his mother and the wise owl. All classic characters and roles that children will immediately recognize.
Events / Story Line: Froggie feels out of place and ugly. He listens to his momma and the wise old owl and learns to find joy in being himself – just the way God made him. It’s the Ugly Duckling in a fresh, new poetic form; a real feel good story.
Illustrations: Bold colors, clean lines…very compelling, though I would have liked to have seen just a few more to go with the very lengthy (for this age group) prose.
Reader relevance: Most kids in the 6 – 10 year range will sympathize and even empathize with Froggie, but the younger kids will probably enjoy the story more. Big brothers and sisters would enjoy reading this to younger siblings.
Reader Excitability / Overall Presentation: Reading this tale is a little awkward in places falling out of the sing-song rhyme that was intended, but the stunning art work really adds to the story.
Tags: Ages 6-10, Ages 9-12, animals, Author last name R, Average, life lesson, owls, poetry, Title I
Posted in Book Reviews |
Monday, January 11th, 2010
 + + + The Mudhogs
Author/Illustrator: Dalton James
Reading level: Ages 6-10
Paperback: 32 pages
Publisher: Outskirts Press (October 28, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1432745603
ISBN-13: 978-1432745608
Book description: No mud equals no fun for three little pigs. Three little pigs try everything in their power to make or find mud. Along the way they learn a valuable life lesson.
Book review: This is a well thought out gem of a book for early readers especially those who are advanced and enjoy more sophisticated stories than “See Spot Run.” This unique story with some really very clever humor will quickly interest and entertain.
Here’s a breakdown:
Characters: There are three pigs along with a tick that narrates the story. All are very well thought out.
Events / Story Line: Three little pigs set out to find some mud and travel to silly (but recognizable) places on their journey; they learn a life lesson.
Illustrations: All very well done. Well thought out and executed. I really liked the unexpected perspectives.
Reader relevance: Clever, unique humor makes this story engaging and keeps this story going. I wanted to find out what happens next because the story is original and surprises. Good job.
Reader Excitability / Overall Presentation: My son (age 6) will enjoy this book. For a self-published book, this is really well done and I give a lot of credit to the author/illustrator.
Tags: Ages 6-10, Author last name J, farm animals, humor, life lesson, pigs, Recommended titles, Title M
Posted in Book Reviews |
Thursday, December 3rd, 2009
 * * * Seventy Seven Tomes Seven
Illustrator: John White
Paperback
Publisher: CBH Ministries; 1st. edition (2009)
ISBN-10: 0982512023
ISBN-13: 978-0982512029
Book description: Batter up! When Brad accidentally breaks the ice cream shop’s sign, the owner forgives Brad. But when his best friend Doug ruins Brad’s favorite baseball cap, will he be able to forgive Doug?
Book review: A very good story about forgiveness. What is especially appealing about this series is that the faith lessons are shared in a way that is so easy to grasp. Kids will relate to the situations and identify with the characters. I heartily recommend these books.
Tags: Ages 6-10, Author last name W, Christian, forgiveness, friendship, Outstanding titles, Title S
Posted in Book Reviews |
Thursday, December 3rd, 2009
 * * * You Can’t Come In
Illustrator: Robert Sauber
Paperback: 32 pages
Publisher: CBH Ministries; 1ST edition (2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0982512015
ISBN-13: 978-0982512012
Book description: Adam and his new friend Zack decide to build a tree fort one warm summer day. After zooming down a hill and falling into a muddy pond, Zack asks Adam about going to church and salvation. Will Adam be able to explain his faith to Zack?
Book review: The way Adam explains his faith to Zack, and then how Zack in turn explains faith to his mother, is superbly done. The message fits into the story seamlessly, never robbing the reader of the pleasure of the story while introducing the faith in a meaningful way. Loved it. Well done.
Tags: Ages 6-10, Author last name S, Christian, friendship, Outstanding titles, Title Y
Posted in Book Reviews |
Thursday, December 3rd, 2009
* * * Race With Midnight
Illustrator: Robert Sauber
Paperback
Publisher: CBH Ministries; 1ST edition (2009)
ISBN-10: 0982512007
ISBN-13: 978-0982512005
Book description: Becky spends spring break on her cousin Sarah’s horse farm in Montana. Taking horse rides amidst the beautiful mountains and valleys, Becky tries to share her faith with Sarah while talking about God’s creation. Will Sarah listen?
Book review: Very well done. A great story with a great message. I love the family values (reminds me of the old Golden Book Lassie stories) and the easy way faith is shared. This is a feel-good story without a heavy-hand at all. Readers will jump right in and want to know what happens next. I can’t think of a better way to share the faith.
Tags: Ages 6-10, Author last name S, Christian, family values, friendship, horses, Outstanding titles, Title R
Posted in Book Reviews |
Wednesday, November 11th, 2009
 * * * Sounds of the Wild: Safari
Author: Maurice Pledger
Reading level: Ages 6-10
Paperback: 16 pages
Publisher: Silver Dolphin Books; Pop edition (November 17, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1571455566
ISBN-13: 978-1571455567
Book description: What was that sound? It’s the scampering hooves of an antelope trying to avoid the clutches of a hungry cheetah! A male lion smells an intruder — ROAR! Young readers experience the amazing sights and sounds of Africa in this entertaining book. As they explore the Masai Mara, the Serengeti, and the Kalahari, young safari-goers meet a menagerie of safari animals, including favorites like giraffes, elephants, and zebras as well as unusual critters like black mamba snakes, dung beetles, and goliath herons. Maurice Pledger’s stunning pop-up panoramas, realistic animal sounds, and an informative field guide make this a book young readers will read again and again.
Book review: Wow! What they can do with books these days! What a treat. Each turn of the page is a new experience with appropriate music and animal facts. It’s a virtual safari all in one book. Key pages name each animal in the pop-up dioramas. You’ll have a safari specialist on your hands in no time.
Tags: Ages 6-10, animals, Author last name P, nature, Outstanding titles, safari, science, Title S
Posted in Book Reviews |
Tuesday, November 10th, 2009
 * * Bugs and Spiders (The Wonders Inside)
Hardcover: 80 pages
Publisher: Silver Dolphin Books (August 11, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1571459073
ISBN-13: 978-1571459077
Book description: The thousand compound eyes of a dragon fly, the military precision of an ant attack, the extraordinary morphing of caterpillar into butterfly — these are a few of the fantastic images featured in this book. Children get a bug’s-eye view of some of the planet’s most intriguing. Five full-page acetate pages reveal the hidden workings of different animals’ bodies, while fascinating 3-D cross-sections provide one-of-a-kind views of these animals in their environments. Stunning computer-generated illustrations bring out even the tiniest details, from the hairy legs on the jumping spider to the intricate order of a beehive. Age-appropriate text, fascinating facts, and a glossary deepen young readers’ knowledge.
Book review: I have some bug experts in the family and I can tell you that this book will thrill them to their scientific bones! With life-like illustrations capturing insects so vividly, how could the reader not fall in love with them? Bells and whistles aside (see the book description) this book teaches kids about several insects, their body parts, their amazing life cycle or habitat (for some) and even cross sections of others. I especially recommend this book for kids just getting into bugs. This will wow their socks off and really encourage their exploration of this field of study.
Tags: Ages 6-10, bugs, Highly Recommended titles, insects, nature, science, spiders, Title B
Posted in Book Reviews |
Friday, November 6th, 2009
 * * * The Mystery of Journeys Crowne-An Adventure Drawing Game
Author: K. Michael Crawford
Paperback: 52 pages
Publisher: Virtualbookworm.com Publishing; 1st edition (September 8, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0981794009
ISBN-13: 978-0981794006
Book description: “The Mystery of Journeys Crowne-An Adventure Drawing Game” brings to you one of Bazel Lark’s greatest unsolved adventures. Mr. Lark, an Explorer, discovered the one Golden Key that would lead him through a series of clues in order to answer the mystery behind Journeys Crowne. Although it is sad to report, Bazel was never able to solve the mystery and now leaves it to you to discover its answers. New Explorers must answer clues on each page in order to draw the missing elements on that page. Once the reader has completed all the clues, they will be able to discover the mystery behind Journey’s Crowne completing Bazel’s mission.
Book review: Totally novel and more details than you can take in with just one reading! Using only your wits and your creative pen/pencil/crayon design your own tale and solve the mystery. This is the über activity book! Keep those kids busy with their nose stuck in a book – and no weapons are allowed. You’ll have to use your own talents this time.
Tags: activity book, Ages 6-10, Ages 9-12, Author last name C, coloring, fantsy, Outstanding titles, Title M
Posted in Book Reviews |
Friday, November 6th, 2009
* * * The Canada Goose and You
Author: Jennifer S. Burrows
Illustrator: Margery Day
Paperback: 32 pages
Publisher: E & E Publishing (October 6, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0979160693
ISBN-13: 978-0979160691
Book description: This nonfiction picture book explains the life and characteristics of the Canada goose by relating them to the child and his world. Each page ends with a question that is answered by “HONK!” — inviting the young listener to “honk” along! Gorgeous illustrations accompany the text. For grades preK to 3.
Book review: Well written, beautifully illustrated. It’s the loads of information that make this book so great and I loved the way each fact related to the young reader. Especially liked that we follow the life of a goose family through the year. This would make a great book for a thematic unit. Younger readers will love ‘honking’ along with the geese. For those voracious young readers of all things nature, this is a great addition to your library.
Tags: Ages 4-6, Ages 6-10, animals, Author last name B, birds, geese, Outstanding titles, Title C
Posted in Book Reviews |
Wednesday, November 4th, 2009
 * * * The Seeing Stick
Author: Jane Yolen
Illustrator: Daniela Jaglenka Terrazzini
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Hardcover: 34 pages
Publisher: Running Press Kids; Reprint edition (September 22, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0762420480
ISBN-13: 978-0762420483
Book description: The same story that captivated readers in 1977 is back in a stunning new edition! Hwei Min, the only daughter of the emperor of China, has been blind since birth. Her father offers a reward to anyone who can find a cure for the little girl. It seems that no one from magicians to physicians can help her. Then, one day a wise old man with a mysterious seeing stick visits the princess. Will he be able to teach Hwei Min that there is more than one way to see the world?
Book review: This is a fairytale like no other! A mysterious old man, a beautiful princess and the magic of seeing with fingertips. Read as the little princess’s world is transformed by her new perspective. Astounding illustrations and an expertly woven story mesmerize and delight. The magic of this tale lies in sharing a new view of the world with its young readers.
Tags: Ages 4-8, Ages 6-10, Author last name Y, Chinese, fable, fairytale, Outstanding titles, Title S
Posted in Book Reviews |
Wednesday, November 4th, 2009
 * * *Lights on Broadway: A Theatrical Tour from A to Z, with CD
Author: Harriet Ziefert
Illustrator: Elliot Kreloff
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Hardcover: 48 pages
Publisher: Blue Apple Books; Rei/Com edition (October 14, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 193470668X
ISBN-13: 978-1934706688
Book description: From A – Z learn all about Broadway. Energetic and dynamic illustrations by Elliot Kreloff, quotes from famous Broadway performers, theater facts and trivia included. Bonus material includes a CD.
Book review: What a great way to introduce a young audience to Broadway! Even though this is in ABC format, older children new to the experience will appreciate the facts and trivia in this informative collection. As brilliant and exciting as Broadway itself, Lights on Broadway plunges the reader into an experience that dazzles. Prepare your child (or class) with this book for an upcoming visit to Broadway. Set the tone and spark the imagination of your children/class with this book and then create your own Broadway show.
Tags: acting, Ages 4-8, Ages 6-10, Author last name Z, broadway, culture, dance, music, Outstanding titles, Title L
Posted in Book Reviews |
Monday, November 2nd, 2009
 * * Chris Dreams BIG
Authors: Chris Dudley & Chris Love-Dudley
Illustrator: Karl Edwards
Hardcover: 38 pages
Publisher: CCD Productions (April 1, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0982322402
ISBN-13: 978-0982322406
Book description: Chris loved being a kid! He also loved dreaming of his plan to one day play professional basketball. Life was pretty good! But one morning Chris woke up and found that he was facing the biggest challenge of his life. Chris had to decide if he was going to let his new found condition end his dream or find the courage to keep playing the game he loves! Chris Dreams BIG is a triumphant story of a boy who overcomes adversity. Chris learns a valuable lesson when he discovers that he is not the only person facing challenges. His life is forever changed when he realizes that challenges do not always have to keep you from doing the things you love.
Book review: This is a great book for young diabetics or any child that has physical challenges. The authors encourage and inspire with Chris Dreams BIG and show kids that there’s absolutely no reason to give up on yourself or your dreams – just the right kind of positive message we want our kids to get! What really made this book a winner for me is that the narrator doesn’t talk down to the reader. This is a very ‘can do’ story from a real life hero that will cheer your child on.
Tags: Ages 4-8, Ages 6-10, Author last name D, diabetes, Highly Recommended titles, inspirational, special needs, Title C
Posted in Book Reviews |
Monday, November 2nd, 2009
 * Jack’s Dreams Come To Life
Author/Illustrator: Sara Jackson
Reading level: Ages 6-10
Paperback: 26 pages
Publisher: BookSurge Publishing (July 28, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 143924281X
ISBN-13: 978-1439242810
Book description: A dog named Jack, lives with his other animal friends on a ranch. After seeing what mischief he can get himself into, and not finding any, he falls asleep. He dreams of being chased by a giant squirrel. When he falls down a hole, he lands in his toy box, on top of his favorite squeak toys. While playing with the cow, the others (horses, pigs, and ducks) start to grow and move around. Soon all the squeak toys circle Jack and he must find a way out. When he sees an opening, a large duck blocks his path. Jack and the duck try to out bark and out quack each other. Pretty soon Jack sees an opening and makes a run for it. As he does, all the squeak toys vanish in a puff of smoke and a cow sneezing on him awakens Jack. Thinking the cow is his squeak toy, Jack runs inside the house and looks inside his toy box to see if all the squeak toys are there.
Book review: This story is a tad scary for the little ones (ages 2-4). The story line isn’t always fluent, but if you ever wondered what your dog was dreaming when he sleeps and that leg gets a twitching, this is the book for you. The illustrations are absolutely wonderful. I fell in love with them and would like to see more from this author/illustrator. * (one star) for the story. * * * (three stars) for the illustrations.
Tags: Ages 4-8, Ages 6-10, animals, Author last name J, dogs, Recommended titles, Title J
Posted in Book Reviews |
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