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Posts Tagged ‘Outstanding titles’
Monday, May 24th, 2010
 + + + + + A Most Vivid Day!
Author: Justin Young
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Hardcover: 40 pages
Publisher: Dream Character, Inc. (May 1, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0978541812
ISBN-13: 978-0978541811
Book description: Living in a world of darkness and knowing only shades of black and gray, Tommy the bat stays up a bit too late one day and is greeted by the sunrise—astonishing him with a world of beautiful, vivid colors. He embarks on a quest to find color of his own, having to overcome initially distrustful animals, looming storm clouds filled with rain, and an absent-minded sun in order to keep the world awash in magnificent hues. Tommy’s tale, full of imagination and color, provides a new and fascinating perspective on the world people see every day.
Book review: Oh, goodness. If you don’t fall in love with this story, then your imagination is severely anemic! Beautiful watercolors illustrate this gem, magically evoking the purest of imagination. This is the kind of book that makes a child fall in love with reading. Justin Young captures fantasy and creatively paints the world with word and brush just as a child might imagine it. I absolutely LOVED the sun and moon characters and the whole concept of them painting the world in vivid color (the sun) and dreary shades of black and gray (the moon). Can’t say enough about this book–BUY IT, BORROW IT–just get your hands on a copy!!
Tags: Ages 4-8, Author last name A, color, fantasy, imagination, Outstanding titles, Title A
Posted in Book Reviews |
Monday, May 24th, 2010
 + + + + + The Secret Lives of Princesses
Author: Philippe Lechermeier
Illustrator: Rebecca Dautremer
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Hardcover: 88 pages
Publisher: Sterling (June 1, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1402766777
ISBN-13: 978-1402766770
Book description: Revealed for the first time in history…the secret lives of princesses you’ve never heard of.
Stepping from the shadows at last are such unique and captivating characters as Princess Claire Voyant, who can see into the future, but always muddles her predictions. Then there’s Princess Tangra-la, known for exquisite dancing, and Princess babbling Brooke, who chatters on about everything and nothing. And who wouldn’t want to meet the Princess of Disorient, who invents all manner of nonsensical celebrations?
As mysterious as they are beautiful, and as eccentric as they are intelligent, these fascinating royal ladies await your discovery.
Book review: If Shel Silverstein had decided to write a guide on princesses it would look something like The Secret Lives of Princesses. Funny, kooky, charming, creative and witty this book will provide hours of absorbing fun. You definitely won’t be bored by average run-of-the-mill princesses in these pages. Some of the most hilarious and eccentric divas will enchant and inspire you to create or become one of your very own. This was a pleasure to read; so refreshingly unique and entertaining!
Tags: Ages 9-12, Author last name L, fairytale, fantasy, guide, humor, Outstanding titles, princesses, Title S
Posted in Book Reviews |
Thursday, March 25th, 2010
 + + + + + Chester’s Masterpiece
Author/Illustrator: Melanie Watt
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Kids Can Press, Ltd. (March 1, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1554535662
ISBN-13: 978-1554535668
Book description: Chester s finally ready to write his own masterpiece he just needs to get pesky writer-illustrator Melanie Watt out of the way.
Book review: Another uproarious laugh-out-loud a minute Chester masterpiece by Melanie Watt. We are definitely Chester fans in this house and this book met all our expectations and then some. If you haven’t heard of Chester yet, you’ll love the way this cat takes over the author’s story and scribbles in his own ideas about what makes a great book. Joke after joke between author and character make any book with Chester in it a real winner.
Tags: Ages 4-8, Author last name W, cats, Chester, humor, Outstanding titles, Title C
Posted in Book Reviews |
Thursday, March 25th, 2010
 + + + + + A Paddling of Ducks: Animals in Groups from A to Z
Author: Marjorie Blain Parker
Illustrator: Joseph Kelly
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Kids Can Press, Ltd. (March 1, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 155337682X
ISBN-13: 978-1553376828
Book description: Featuring groups of animals from an army of ants to a herd of zebras, this book takes young children on a wildly imaginative tour through a zany animal kingdom. Each group of animals is described using a collective noun (for example, a skulk of foxes, a nest of vipers, a labor of moles). Joseph Kelly s richly detailed illustrations show animals engaged in gently surreal play on a summer day in various park-like settings. Young readers will revel in the visual jokes and puns on every page.
Book review: LOVED this book. The illustrations are superb, fun and very appealing. Reading this with your little one is a real visual treat as you run through the alphabet of animals and take in their silly fun on each page. Definitely an ABC book worth buying and adding to your home library. Will be a favorite for years to come.
Tags: abc, Ages 4-5, Ages 4-8, alphabet, animals, Author last name P, humor, Outstanding titles, 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
 + + + + + Virginia
Author: Susan Hughes
Reading level: Young Adult
Paperback: 288 pages
Publisher: Kids Can Press, Ltd. (March 1, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1554533074
ISBN-13: 978-1554533077
Book description: Fourteen-year-old Ivy is flabbergasted when her childhood friend Virginia claims that she has been visited by an angel who has asked her to bear the child of God. As Ivy struggles to understand and help her friend, she uncovers more secrets, including an apocalyptic plot being devised by Virginia’s weird brother, Paul. Ivy suspects Paul’s activities must connect in some way to Virginia’s claim but she’s uncertain how. Soon Ivy finds herself caught up in a chain of events she has no control over.
Book review: I enjoyed Virginia very much. It was a nice fast-paced and suspenseful novel. Ivy is a strong character that faces some deep challenges: helping a childhood friend, Virginia Donato, who claims to have been visited by an angel, coming to terms with her own family’s problems and uncovering a dark plot within the Donato household.
Virginia is a gripping story of seemingly impossible events…that could actually happen. An awesome read with five stars. Recommended for anyone who enjoys thrills and suspense. – R.C., 15 yrs old.
Tags: Ages 12-Up, Author last name H, Outstanding titles, suspense, thriller, Title V
Posted in Book Reviews |
Monday, February 1st, 2010
 + + + + + The Kissing Hand
Author: Audrey Penn
Illustrators: Ruth E. Harper and Nancy M. Leak
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Tanglewood Press (July 25, 2007)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1933718072
ISBN-13: 978-1933718071
Book description: Chester Raccoon doesn’t want to go to school–he wants to stay home with his mother. She assures him that he’ll love school–with its promise of new friends, new toys, and new books. Even better, she has a special secret that’s been in the family for years–the Kissing Hand. This secret, she tells him, will make school seem as cozy as home. She takes her son’s hand, spreads his tiny fingers into a fan and kisses his palm–smack dab in the middle: “Chester felt his mother’s kiss rush from his hand, up his arm, and into his heart.”
Book review: As a mother I was very touched by “The Kissing Hand.” This is an idea mothers can share with their little ones and easily implement creating both confident kiddos and childhood memories to treasure.
Here’s the breakdown:
Characters: Chester and his mother quickly resonate with the young reader especially in their dialog where Mother Raccoon is soothing and reassuring, wise and nurturing.
Events / Story Line: It’s Chester’s first ‘night’ of school and he’s nervous and wants to stay home with mother where everything is comforting and familiar. Mrs. Raccoon shows him a special way to keep ‘in touch’ with her throughout the night by teaching him about the kissing hand.
Illustrations: The illustrations are wonderful and remind me of the old Golden Books. Filling the page, detailed and comforting, they underscore the warmth of the narration.
Reader relevance: This is the perfect gift for a child starting school! Little one’s will relate to Chester’s feelings and love the concept of the kissing hand.
Reader Excitability / Overall Presentation: Moms will absolutely be touched. Little ones will immediately take to the idea of a kissing hand – if they haven’t already been doing this at home.
Tags: Ages 0-4, Ages 4-5, Author last name P, first day of school, kindergarten, Outstanding titles, Title K
Posted in Book Reviews |
Tuesday, January 26th, 2010
 + + + + + Chester Raccoon and The Acorn Full of Memories
Author: Audrey Penn
Illustrator: Barbara Gibson
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Tanglewood Press (August 25, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1933718293
ISBN-13: 978-1933718293
Book description: This title is an important addition to the Chester Raccoon/Kissing Hand series on life issues for children. Mrs. Raccoon helps Chester and his friends deal with the death of their friend by teaching them to make memories together. Many children must face the loss of someone close and the accompanying funeral, and this book will help them prepare for that experience and understand the positive aspects of memorializing loved ones.
Book review: My jaw dropped when I opened this book. From the start the illustrations enfold the reader and sweep you right into an expertly written story that is as tender and touching as it is consoling and healing. The prose is always only soothing and motherly and not the least bit syrupy or patronizing.
Here’s the breakdown:
Characters: Chester and his mother quickly resonate with the young reader especially in their dialog where Mother Raccoon is soothing and reassuring, wise and nurturing.
Events / Story Line: This story line is remarkable in that it offers children a practical means to work out their mourning; something constructive to do when a little one feels helpless.
Illustrations: Awesome. I like the full page illustrations. They really underscore the soothing tone of the story while dealing with a somber subject and offering hope.
Reader relevance: I think this is a book that little ones will appreciate, giving them an outlet for their emotions and something to create and hang onto with regard to their deceased loved one.
Reader Excitability / Overall Presentation: Death is difficult for kiddos but I think this is a book that will sew hope in a child’s heart and help him/her grieve and celebrate life.
Tags: Ages 4-8, Author last name P, death and dying, Outstanding titles, Title C
Posted in Book Reviews |
Thursday, December 3rd, 2009
 * * * Braving the Storm
Illustrator: John White
Paperback: 32 pages
Publisher: CBH Minstries; 1st. edition (2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0982512031
ISBN-13: 978-0982512036
Book description: When Thomás moves away from his neighborhood and into a mobile home in his grandparents’ backyard, he misses his friends. There’s nothing to do around the apple orchard with no friends, his dad works a lot, and his little brother was hurt in an accident. All his sister wants to do is play with her dolls. Will Thomás be able to rely on God to get through the difficult times?
Book review: This is a very difficult story dealing with the age-old questions: “Why do bad things happen to good people?” and “If God is all-powerful and all-loving why does he allow bad things to happen?” Not only is there a Christian message of hope, but the warmth of family and the faith they share envelopes the main character and the reader delivering a powerful message of God’s love, providence and faithfulness. A must read especially if your kiddo/family is struggling to deal with very trying circumstances like an illness or job loss.
Tags: Ages 9-12, Author last name W, Christian, family, illness, Outstanding titles, Title B
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 |
Monday, November 30th, 2009
 * * * Action Files: Gladiators
Author: Rupert Matthews
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Spiral-bound: 24 pages
Publisher: Silver Dolphin Books; Spi edition (September 29, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1592239315
ISBN-13: 978-1592239313
Book description: In ancient Rome, gladiators entertained audiences by battling each other — sometimes to the death. Talk about awesome action! Action Files: Gladiators introduces children to the colorful history of these brave warriors. The book brings history to life, explaining and illustrating the different types of gladiators, their armor and weapons, and much more. The 3-D lenticular cover, detailed fact book, information cards, reusable stickers, giant pull-out poster, and activities combine to make this an educational and entertaining read. An online component lets readers expand the fun onto the Internet.
Book review: WOW. Talk about everything you can imagine at your fingertips. This is the ultimate resource for the topic and a surefire way to engage your child in the study of gladiators. Between the illustrations, the numerous facts and the interactive items like stickers, cards and a helmet your child can construct you’ll spend hours learning about gladiators. As a homeschooling mom I find this book quite inspirational in planning a thematic unit around gladiators.
Tags: Ages 4-8, Ages 9-12, Author last name M, gladiators, historical, Outstanding titles, Title A, Title G
Posted in Book Reviews |
Monday, November 30th, 2009
 * * * Science Fair Winners: Bug 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: 1426305192
ISBN-13: 978-1426305191
Book description: It might be creepy, but entomology is one cool branch of science for kids! Bug Science is a funny, educational book filled with cool workshops that are ideal for science fairs. Sometimes it’s all about the bugs, like an experiment to reroute ants. Sometimes it’s about how we interact with bugs, like the workshop on spider phobias. You can even turn your friends into bug bait to see who has the sweetest skin.
Bug Science is peppered with sidebars from entomologists and is sure to inspire a new appreciation for the buggy world we live in.
Book review: Just like Science Fair Winners: Crime Scene Science, this book is filled with idea after idea for your science fair project. Study the world of creepy crawlies and build your project around a bug or phobia. Each chapter focuses on a workshop/project with easy to follow instructions, suggestions and questions to prompt experimentation and discovery. I give this three stars because it’s an invaluable resource for home and school.
Tags: Ages 9-12, Author last name R, Outstanding titles, science, science fair, Title S
Posted in Book Reviews |
Wednesday, November 11th, 2009
 * * * Dinosaurs
Author: John Malam
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Hardcover: 12 pages
Publisher: Silver Dolphin Books; Pop edition (August 11, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1592239404
ISBN-13: 978-1592239405
Book description: Prehistoric beasts live again in this amazing book. The adrenaline-pumping action starts on the cover with a ferocious, red-eyed T.Rex who roars to life with the touch of a button. Inside, a newborn Eoraptor hatches from its egg emitting baby dinosaur cries, and a deadly — and hungry! — Allosaurus leaps from the page. Each colorful spread is packed with cool illustrations, fun facts, and dynamic elements that allow youngsters to learn about dinosaurs in a whole new way.
Book review: If your kiddo doesn’t drool and say, AWESOME! when he sees this book, have his head checked. Killer sound effects, pop-ups and flaps to flip over. Facts upon facts with realistic illustrations. Little ones might find the cover too scary (the eye lights up red and the dinosaur growls), also the flaps are delicate so this is a book better suited for the older child (age 9 and up). Definitely a keepsake for the true-blue dinosaur lover. An outstanding interactive experience for the young, new dinosaur enthusiast.
Tags: Ages 9-12, Author last name M, dinosaurs, Outstanding titles, science, Title D
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
 * * * Wet Friend! (Adventure of Meno)
Authors: Angela & Tony Diterlizzi
Illustrator: Tony Diterlizzi
Reading level: Baby-Preschool
Hardcover: 48 pages
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing (October 6, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1416971491
ISBN-13: 978-1416971498
Book review: If you are looking for untarnished innocence, joy and glee read the Meno books. Add me to the fan club, please! My six-year old (and certainly younger children) will love these not only because he can master the language, but also because the story is appealing, silly and fun.
Tags: Ages 0-4, Ages 4-5, Ages 4-8, Author last name D, baby, Meno, Outstanding titles, Title A, Title M, Title W, toddler
Posted in Book Reviews |
Friday, November 6th, 2009
 * * * Batty Malgoony’s Mystic Carnivale
Author: K. Michael Crawford
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Paperback: 60 pages
Publisher: Virtualbookworm.com Publishing (June 9, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0981794017
ISBN-13: 978-0981794013
Book description: Come one! Come all! To be a part of the flabbergastly, magnificent, quirky, Batty Malgoony’s Mystic Carnivale! Ladies and Gentlemen! Children of all ages! Batty is looking for artists of all ages to draw and create the mystical performers, unbelievable creatures and absurd characters in his 60-page book. In the book, the reader visits different parts of Batty’s Mystic Carnivale and is asked to draw in the missing characters, creatures, or performers on each page. Batty’s book is coming your way to creep you out, so get your imagination ready and throw in some silliness for this fun-filled drawing escapade. To learn more about Batty and his Mystic Carnivale visit his website: www.happilyeverart.com/BattyMalgoony.html
Book review: An activity book for the younger set, but certainly to be enjoyed by one and all. Think of this as a guided coloring book where your imagination fills in the whys and wherefores of the story. Absolutely creative and, once again, weapon free. I love all the loose ends and fill-in-the blanks for endless hours of imaginative self-entertainment.
Tags: activity book, Ages 4-8, art, Author last name C, coloring, fantasy, Outstanding titles, 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 |
Friday, November 6th, 2009
 * * * Ten Hats: A Counting Book
Author: Carolyn Mott Ford
Illustrator: Jack Gordon
Paperback: 34 pages
Publisher: E & E Publishing (September 11, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0979160626
ISBN-13: 978-0979160622
Book description: This is a counting book showing the different kinds of hats worn by amusing animal characters doing different jobs. It ends with the hat worn by a kindergarten graduate (a young bunny), with the promise that “you can be anything you want to be!” Can serve as an early reader.
Book review: The perfect book for your little reader! Counting backwards, ‘playing dress-up’ and dreaming big! The repetition is fun and seeing who wears the next hat is a definitely a big hook. Loved the concept and the ending. A worthwhile book that offers something more than just counting.
Tags: Ages 4-5, Author last name F, counting, Outstanding titles, Title T
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
 * * * Big Wolf and Little Wolf, The Little Leaf that Wouldn’t
Author: Nadine Brun-Cosme
Illustrator: Olivier Tallec
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Enchanted Lion Books (November 10, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1592700888
ISBN-13: 978-1592700882
Book description: High up in a tree is a little leaf that Little Wolf admires because it’s so tender, shiny, and soft. He asks Big Wolf to go get it. “Wait,” says Big Wolf. “Eventually it will fall.” But it doesn’t. Big Wolf finally agrees to get the leaf, but as branches crack under his feet, Little Wolf wonders whether the little leaf is worth the trouble.
Book review: The love between two friends, Big Wolf and Little Wolf, grows in this second book and is shown very touchingly in prose and illustration with a very light hand minus syrupy sweetness. Your little one with ‘get it’ and love it.
This is the second Big Wolf & Little Wolf book I have reviewed and I can’t get enough of these endearing characters. Altogether, these are the kind of books I love to read to my little one because they set a mood that just invites you to cuddle up and read in a quiet room in a comfy chair. Big Wolf and Little Wolf also remind me of a big brother-little brother relationship, so if you have that combo at home, you’ll want these books for that reason, too.
Tags: Ages 4-8, Author last name B, Big Wolf and Little Wolf, Outstanding titles, Title B
Posted in Book Reviews |
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 |
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