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Posts Tagged ‘Author last name S’
Monday, August 30th, 2010
 + + + + The Tooth
Author: Avi Slodovnick
Illustrator: Manon Gauthier
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Library Binding: 32 pages
Publisher: Kane/Miller Book Publishers (September 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1935279726
ISBN-13: 978-1935279723
Book description: Marissa loves candy–maybe a little too much. When she wakes up with a toothache, her mother takes her to the dentist. And so begins a day that Marissa will never forget.
It’s a trip-to-the-dentist story about so much more than brushing your teeth.
Book review: This is an eye-opening book that grabs the reader by the heart. I love the perspective and the natural way something as serious as homelessness is slipped into an otherwise standard trip-to-the-dentist story. But you never feel like the author couldn’t choose her subject. From the point of view of little Marissa, we see what’s really important. This book could start a dialogue between you and your young child about the less fortunate and how to help. I found this book to be a pleasant and refreshing surprise that can pack a wallop of a reminder for grown-ups about what is most important. You’ll love the artwork, how the crowd is painted in drab gray and the homeless man is in color (when usually we see the world the opposite way, with the homeless almost invisible). I highly recommend this one.
Tags: Ages 4-6, Ages 4-8, Author last name S, charity, dentist, Highly Recommended titles, homelessness, people, society, Title T
Posted in Book Reviews |
Monday, May 24th, 2010
 + + + + Not All Princesses Wear Pink
Author: Jane Yolen & Heidi E. Y. Stemple
Illustrator: Anne-Sphie Lanquetin
Reading level: Baby-Preschool
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing (June 15, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1416980180
ISBN-13: 978-1416980186
Book description: These princesses dig in the dirt, kick soccer balls, and splash in muddy puddles — all in their sparkly crowns!
Book review: A new take on princesses, one that is most welcome.
Tags: Ages 4-8, Author last name S, Author last name Y, fairytale, girls, princesses, Title N
Posted in Book Reviews |
Tuesday, May 11th, 2010
 + + + Where is Love?
Author: Laura Nadler Scott
Illustrator: Marguerite Massa
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Hardcover: 32 pages
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1936172070
ISBN-13: 978-1936172078
Book description: Where is love? Leni Lovebird desperately wants to learn from her fellow forest dwellers so she can create a love song of her very own. But Leni just can’t seem to find love where others do.
Should she take the advice of a busy mole, an old owl, a lolling turtle or a plump bee? Fly alongside Leni as she journeys far from Mother bird in search of love, only to discover she has traveled a delicate circle home.
Book review: The narration and illustrations work together like poetry giving this lyrical tale real life. It’s not an unfamiliar story, and the moral is “There’s no place like home,” but each critter Leni encounters draws both Leni and the reader closer to this truism and warms the heart. A great book to read while cuddled up with your little one.
Tags: Ages 4-8, Author last name S, family, love, Recommended titles, Title W
Posted in Book Reviews |
Thursday, March 25th, 2010
 + + + Andy and Sam Hide-and-Seek
Author: Liesbet Slegers
Reading level: Baby-Preschool
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Kane/Miller Book Publishers; 1 edition (January 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1935279351
ISBN-13: 978-1935279358
Book description: An engaging seek and find book for young children – each colorful spread asks simple questions: Where is the rabbit? Who is living in the apple? How many elephants are there in the zoo?
Book review: A colorful first seek-and-find for little ones. Totally engages the little mind and starts them seeking details in each illustration, helping them develop skills that will make them solid readers. Great for long car or plane trips. Especially perfect for young lovers of cats, as there is a hidden cat in each picture.
Tags: Ages 0-4, Ages 4-5, Author last name S, cats, fun, hide-and-seek, Recommended titles, search and find, Title A
Posted in Book Reviews |
Tuesday, March 23rd, 2010
 + + + + + Looking Closely Around The Pond
Author: Frank Serafini
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Hardcover: 40 pages
Publisher: Kids Can Press, Ltd. (February 1, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1553373952
ISBN-13: 978-1553373957
Book description: Look closely. Look very closely. Is it … a leaf? A net? Just turn the page and, lo and behold, it s a dragonfly s wing. Children will learn about dragonflies and many other creatures in this interactive book that encourages imagination and instills a respect for the natural environment.
Book review: If the photographs in this book don’t blow you away, nothing will. Brilliant color and clarity make guessing what each pond object is a fun adventure. Each guess is followed by a short profile about the critter or pond feature teaching your kids all about the pond environment. Fun, entertaining and educational.
Tags: Ages 4-8, Author last name S, biology, ducks, guessing game, Look Closely, Outstanding titles, ponds, science, Title L
Posted in Book Reviews |
Monday, March 1st, 2010
 + + + + Noodle Pie
Author: Ruth Starke
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Hardcover: 189 pages
Publisher: Kane/Miller Book Publishers (March 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1935279254
ISBN-13: 978-1935279259
Book description: It’s Andy’s first trip on an airplane when he and his dad travel to Vietnam to meet all his relatives. Talk about culture shock! Everyone calls him by his Vietnamese name instead of Andy and he is stunned to discover the family restaurant is nothing like what he expected. Somehow though, Andy helps his Vietnamese family and his dad come to see things in a new way.
Book review: Noodle Pie is a warm story about a boy who learns more about his Vietnamese family and their culture. The main character, Andy, visits Vietnam for the first time with his father, an escaped refugee who is returning for the first time to visit his family. Andy experiences culture shock and at first thinks little of his family and their small, dirty restaurant. However, things change over time as he grows to understand and like his family.
I found Noodle Pie particularly interesting because it focuses on the Vietnamese culture which I didn’t know much about. I would recommend this book to someone who enjoys coming-of-age stories. – R.C., 15-yrs-old.
Tags: Ages 9-12, Author last name S, coming-of-age, culture, family, Highly Recommended titles, Title N, Vietnam
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 |
Tuesday, December 1st, 2009
 * * Shadowmask
Author: R. A. Salvatore, Geno Salvatore
Reading level: Young Adult
Hardcover: 304 pages
Publisher: Mirrorstone (November 10, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0786951478
ISBN-13: 978-0786951475
Book description: Cross swords with a blue-skinned pirate and unravel the mystery of the masked spellcaster in this second book of the Stone of Tymora trilogy!
Though robbed by a masked spellcaster and left for dead by a demon, twelve-year-old Maimun refuses to give up the magic that rightfully belongs to him. After reuniting with dark elf Drizzt Do’Urden and Captain Deudermont’s crew, Maimun sets off on a sea-faring chase that will test both the strength of his spirit and of his friendships. As perilous storms rock Sea Sprite and vicious pirates bombard its decks, a mysterious force gathers in the Moonshaes, determined to bring Deudermont’s ship – and Maimun’s quest – crashing to an end on its shores.
In this second book of the Stone of Tymora trilogy, R.A. Salvatore and his son Geno continue their gripping tale of coming-of-age in a world filled with magic, featuring a cameo of R.A. Salvatore’s signature character Drizzt Do’Urden.
Book review: I was glad to read this continuation of the first story and I can’t wait to read the third book. I definitely want to know what happens next. The plot is somewhat predicatable and the main character is annoying but it was still a good story that has me wanting to read more. The magic was especially good. – R.C., 15-yrs old
Tags: adventure, Ages 9-12, Author last name S, fantasy, Highly Recommended titles, Title S
Posted in Book Reviews |
Monday, November 2nd, 2009
 * * Flying High
Author/Illustrator: Jorgen Stamp
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Enchanted Lion Books (August 18, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1592700896
ISBN-13: 978-1592700899
Book review: Funny and touching. Walter the giraffe knows it all and his poor friend Sonny the turtle suffers for it. Read along as Walter crafts an airplane and flies amazing feats until a storm comes along and Sonny is the only one who can save him. I loved this tale of friendship and the comical sketches that ‘propel’ it along. This book will make your little one giggle and help him become a better friend.
Tags: Ages 4-8, airplanes, animals, Author last name S, friendship, Highly Recommended titles, Title F
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, September 8th, 2009
 * But What If I Don’t Understand?
Author: C. P. Siebenhuener
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Paperback: 24 pages
Publisher: Tate Publishing (February 3, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1606969048
ISBN-13: 978-1606969045
Book description: But What If I Dont Understand? introduces us to an adorable little girl who learns the very important lesson of honesty, communication and self confidence. Author C.P. Siebenhuener interestingly depicts a childs insecurity and fear of admitting to not always understanding what is being taught in school and demonstrates how Danielles mom lovingly and patiently explains the importance of asking questions and having the confidence to ask for help.
Book review: A great book for your frustrated kiddos – a great gift for the teacher as well. A little book like this in the hands of a few teachers in the lower grades could really boost the morale of some kids who would otherwise struggle silently. A great tool for communication. I hope it gets used widely!
Tags: Ages 4-8, Author last name S, communication, Recommended titles, school, self-esteem, Title B
Posted in Book Reviews |
Tuesday, July 28th, 2009
 * * * Binky The Space Cat
Author: Ashley Spires
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Paperback: 64 pages
Publisher: Kids Can Press (August 1, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1554534194
ISBN-13: 978-1554534197
Book description: Binky is a space cat – at least in his own mind. He’s really a house cat who has never left the family “space station.” Unlike other house cats, Binky has a mission: to blast off into outer space (outside), explore unknown places (the backyard) and battle aliens (bugs). Binky must undergo rigorous training so he can repel the alien attacks that threaten his humans. As he builds his spaceship, he must be extremely careful with his blueprints – the enemy is always watching. Soon Binky is ready to voyage into outer space. His humans go out there every day and he’s sure they need a certified space cat to protect them. But just as he’s about to blast off with his co-pilot, Ted (stuffed mousie), Binky realizes that he’s left something very important behind … and it’s not the zero-gravity kitty litter.
Book review: This one is a laugh a page. Never mind that we are a cat family and just know some of our kitties think and act like Binky, this book will charm you and give little ones big giggles with Binky’s shenanigans, all perfectly targeted for ages 6-10. This graphic novel format is a great way to encourage reading. And beneath all of this wonderful, engaging and fun adventure is the maxim: there’s no place like home and family!
This book is coming out in August 2009.
Tags: Ages 6-10, Author last name S, comic book, family, funny, graphic novel, humor, Outstanding titles, Title B
Posted in Book Reviews |
Wednesday, July 22nd, 2009
 * * Viva Cisco
Author: Patrick Shannon
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Paperback: 256 pages
Publisher: Outskirts Press (April 14, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1432730371
ISBN-13: 978-1432730376
Book description: “Viva Cisco” is a trilogy of funny stories for kids at the Age 10-13 reading level. All three tales unfold in a land called Topopootl, which lies in a hidden valley deep in the heart of Mexico. Because of its seclusion, the inhabitants have created a society without the benefit of human contact, and they don’t seem to have missed out on anything important in the absence of that dubious blessing. In fact, they probably have more pure merriment and boisterous excitement than any human community could ever conceive. Much of the credit for that, though, must be laid at the feet of Topopootl’s most..uh.. stimulating citizen, one Cisco las Verde Arara del Gucigalpa. Aka, Cisco the Parrot.
Book review: Loved these three humorous adventures of a parrot in a jungle with animal friends. I recommend it for animal lovers and kids age 6-12. Funny and original. – R.C., age 15
Tags: adventure, Ages 9-12, animals, Author last name S, Highly Recommended titles, humor, Title V
Posted in Book Reviews |
Monday, July 6th, 2009
 * * * Wild Horse Creek: The Mystery Stallion
Author: Sharon Siamon
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Paperback: 176 pages
Publisher: Walrus Books (September 12, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1552859339
ISBN-13: 978-1552859339
Book description: Join Sophie and Liv in the explosive kick-off to the new Wild Horse Creek series.
When 13-year-old twins Sophie and Liv spend their spring break vacation with their grandparents in Arizona, they discover that the ranch in the Sonoran Desert is full of surprises. Both girls love horses, and they’re thrilled to meet their grandparents’ herd of Spanish Barbs who roam freely on the 3,000-acre ranch. Soon, however, the girls encounter more adventure than they bargained for.
When their grandfather’s stallion is badly injured and the rest of his herd disappears, the twins try to find the missing horses and get to the bottom of the mystery. Along the way, the girls encounter rattlesnakes, good-looking cowhands and an interesting cast of characters who work at the ritzy local spa. Throughout their adventure, the twins come to terms with the fact that they are separate individuals with different paths to follow.
About the Wild Horse Creek series:
When horses are at the heart of a series, it’s pretty much guaranteed that every book will also feature fun, adventure and friendship. This series follows twins Sophie and Liv adventures on their grandfather’s ranch.
Book review: Sharon Siamon wastes no time drawing the reader right in to Liv And Sophie’s world. A fast-paced, gripping read I couldn’t put down. Horse lovers, tweens and teens will love this one and want more…and as a mother of twins, I have a special appreciation for Liv and Sophie’s relationship and growing autonomy. Well done. Siamon really knows her audience.
Tags: Ages 9-12, Author last name S, horses, mystery, Outstanding titles, teen, Title M, Title W
Posted in Book Reviews |
Monday, July 6th, 2009
 * * * Penny & Rio: The Locked Doghouse Mystery
Author: Jennifer Swanson
Illustrators: Rosita Schandy & Neal Wooten
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Paperback: 44 pages
Publisher: Mirror Publishing (August 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-13: 978-1-936046-10-2
Book description: The crime-fighting dog duo of Penny and Rio are on the case again. Squeaky, the mouse, needs Penny’s help to get his precious belongings from a locked doghouse. But how can a couple of dogs and a mouse open a metal lock? With the help of Hobbes, a massive Great Dane, Penny and Rio work to solve this mystery. But can they get Squeaky’s valuables out before the doghouse is destroyed?
Book review: Penny drags Rio into solving the latest mystery and once again they steal the reader’s heart with their charm and personality. Funny, endearing and engaging, I would encourage your early readers (1st and 2nd grade) to try reading this with your help. How can you not get hooked on reading with Penny & Rio? I just can’t get enough of Penny & Rio!
This book is due out in August – be sure to check Amazon.com or visit www.pagesofwonder.com.
Tags: Ages 9-12, Author last name S, dogs, mystery, Outstanding titles, Title L, Title P
Posted in Book Reviews |
Monday, July 6th, 2009
 * * * Penny & Rio: The Mysterious Backyard Meeting
Author: Jennifer Swanson
Illustrators: Rosita Schandy & Neal Wooten
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Paperback: 44 pages
Publisher: Mirror Publishing (December 16, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0982256019
ISBN-13: 978-0982256015
Book description: Penny and Rio are two dogs who are complete opposites. Penny is curious and always on the go, while Rio prefers a good nap. At their new house, Penny discovers that their backyard is the meeting place for several different animals. Penny doesn’t know why a cat, a groundhog, a squirrel, and an owl could possibly be meeting, but she knows she has to find out. She comes up with an ingenious plan for spying on them and discovers their plot. She has to stop them – but can she get her sister dog, Rio, to help her or will Rio decide that sleep is more important? Follow along as these two pet detectives, Penny and Rio solve the first of many cases in Penny and Rio: The Mysterious Backyard Meeting.
Book review: Lol! This is a great book. Penny steals the show and Rio is the winning ’straight man.’ Not just a book about dogs with human characteristics – not at all. You can honestly tell these two dogs (real characters at that) really did behave this way and the story hooks you right in with both dogs’ unique characterizations. We are a pet family here and I know my son is going to love, love, love this because our pets have such endearing personalities, too. We can relate! Great job.
This book is geared for readers aged 9-12, but younger listeners will love having Penny & Rio’s adventures read to them as well.
Tags: Ages 9-12, Author last name S, dogs, humor, mystery, Outstanding titles, Title M, Title P
Posted in Book Reviews |
Sunday, October 22nd, 2006
 * * * Ryan and Jimmy And The Well In Africa That Brought Them Together
Author: Herb Shoveller
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Hardcover: 56 pages
Publisher: Kids Can Press
ISBN: 1553379675
EXCELLENT on all accounts. Perfect for ages 9-12 and even middle-schoolers. Ryan is a boy that proves that even one person can make a BIG difference. When his first grade teacher tells him it will cost $70 to build a well for a poor village in Africa, Ryan is determined to make it happen. And he does! His efforts and compassion soon inspire others to get involved to make this dream come true. Best of all, Ryan meets and makes a lifelong friend In Jimmy who lives in the African village. Any child who reads this is sure to be inspired. This story is DEFINITELY one of those influences you’ll want in your child’s life. A great book for the up-and-coming younger generation.
Buy now on Amazon.com
Tags: Africa, Ages 9-12, Author last name S, culture, friendship, Outstanding titles, people, Title R
Posted in Book Reviews |
Friday, October 20th, 2006
 * Wilky The White House Cockroach
Author: Howie Schneider
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Putnam Juvenile (September 7, 2006)
ISBN: 0399243887
Creative, silly and fun. Wilky the cockroach goes on an adventure when he hitches a ride in a pizza box and ends up in the oval office. This is a cute story, one that kids will enjoy while parents chuckle as they read it to their children. A great light-hearted addition to your home library.
Buy now on Amazon.com
Tags: Ages 4-8, Author last name S, government, humor, insects, Recommended titles, Title W
Posted in Book Reviews |
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