Posts Tagged ‘Title S’

Sunny Bunnies (Ages 4-6)

Monday, August 16th, 2010

+ + + Sunny Bunnies
Author:  Margie Blumberg
Illustrator:  June Goulding

Reading level: Ages 4-8
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: MB Publishing, LLC; First edition (June 15, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0962416649
ISBN-13: 978-0962416644

Book description: Summer’s here and these two sunny bunnies can’t wait to dig their toes into the sandiest spot in Carrot Cake Park. There, with the big sister leading the way, they’ll build a castle, fly a kite and, of course, jump the waves! This endearing rhyming tale with its cheerful illustrations captures their day perfectly–from the moment they fling their flip-flops until, home again, they say good night . . . almost!

Book review: It’s not too late to enjoy this little summer gem.  Word and illustration work together perfectly here to convey a fun day at the beach.  Loved all the activities the bunnies engage in, including the last bit of fun before bedtime.  A great seasonal read.  A great family-fun book.

Still Sucks To Be Me (Ages 12-Up)

Friday, August 6th, 2010

+ + + Still Sucks To Be Me
Author:   Kimberly Pauley
Reading level: Young Adult
Hardcover: 384 pages
Publisher: Mirrorstone (May 11, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0786955031
ISBN-13: 978-0786955039

Book description: With vampire boyfriend George and best friend Serena by her side, Mina thought she had her whole life—or rather afterlife—ahead of her. But then Mina’s parents drop a bomb. They’re moving. To Louisiana. And not somewhere cool like New Orleans, but some teeny, tiny town where cheerleaders and jocks rule the school. Mina has to fake her death, change her name, and leave everything behind, including George and Serena. Not even the Vampire Council’s shape-shifting classes can cheer her up. Then Serena shows up on Mina’s doorstep with some news that sends Mina reeling. Mina may look a lot better with fangs, but her afterlife isn’t any less complicated!

Book review: A great addition to the first novel.  Mina’s a vampire now, but she still has problems from high school drama to love trouble, to a vampire cult.  I loved the little vampire drawings at the top of each chapter as well as the believable characters.  A nice read that I recommend to fans of the first book as well as those interested in vampires, love and high school stories.

- R.C., 16 yrs old.

The Healing Wars: Book I: The Shifter (Ages 9-12)

Monday, May 24th, 2010

+ + + + The Healing Wars: Book I: The Shifter
Author: Janice Hardy

Reading level: Ages 9-12
Hardcover: 384 pages
Publisher: Balzer + Bray; 1 edition (October 6, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0061747041
ISBN-13: 978-0061747045

Book Description: This story takes place in a world where pain can be shifted out of a body and placed into a stone. The people who have the power to shift pain from humans to the magical stones are revered by society. Unfortunately, the protagonist, Nya can take the pain out of humans but she is unable to transfer the pain to the stones like her sister, Tali. If it is discovered that Nya has a flawed talent she can be used as a human weapon against her people. When Tali is kidnapped, Nya must risk everything she has to save her sister and her people.

Book Review: The Shifter is fast paced with suspense, adventure, betrayal, and possibilities. The Shifter is engaging story that leaves you wanting more. Luckily this book has all the possibilities for a sequel, so keep you fingers crossed.

-Review by N.C., 16-yrs old


The Secret Lives of Princesses (Ages 9-12)

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!

Shadow of the Dragon (Book Two Elspeth) (Ages 9-12)

Saturday, March 20th, 2010

+ + + + Shadow of the Dragon (Book Two Elspeth)
Author:  Kate O’Hearn

Paperback: 384 pages
Publisher: Hodder Children’s Books (May 21, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 034094529X
ISBN-13: 978-0340945292

Book description: One day, a young girl astride a twin-tailed dragon will destroy the monarchy and change the world for ever …Kira and Elspeth have already broken FIRST LAW many times over. Now outlawed and running for their lives they are determined to stand amongst the men and fight the unjust FIRST LAW that binds the kingdom. But cruel Lord Dorcon still stands in their way and the heat of his chase is stronger than ever. Strong and determined, Kira has done all that she can to protect and shield her younger sister. But now it’s time for Elspeth to grow up. When Paradon’s muddled magic sends them travelling through time to different eras, new challenges and terrifying threats await the separated sisters. Especially to Elspeth, left all alone to navigate a past world long before the rule of King Ardon and FIRST LAW. And all the while in a strange, alien world of the future, Kira must find a way to get back to Elspeth and reunite her family once again. A prophecy to fulfil. A cruel monarchy to upend. The battle continues …

Book review: This is the second book in the Shadow of the Dragon series.  I have not read the first book, but after reading the second book I will be keeping my eyes open for the first book, Shadow of the Dragon (Book One Kira).

Here’s the breakdown:

Hook/Setting: The opening picks up where the first book left off and I think that the setting is described very well, I can picture the various scenes in my head without trouble.

Character(s): This story focus on Kira’s youngest sister, Elspeth. I like Elspeth, she is a kind girl who wants things to be fair and just. She loves animals and has a unique controlling ability over them and they try to rescue her when she is in trouble. There is a variety of characters new and old in this story that bring the story along nicely.

Events/Plots: The plot is original and interesting. There is suspense and mystery throughout the story and secrets are revealed. This book is easy to get into.

Reader Excitability/Overall Presentation: I would recommend this book to those who have read the first book and to people who enjoy stories with dragons, animals, and people who never lose hope.

Review by N.C., 15-yrs old.


Scary Aerie (Ages 6-10)

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.

Spies of Mississippi: The True Story of the Spy Network that Tried to Destroy the Civil Rights Movement (Ages 12-Up)

Thursday, December 10th, 2009

* Spies of Mississippi: The True Story of the Spy Network that Tried to Destroy the Civil Rights Movement
Author: Rick Bowers
Reading level: Young Adult
Hardcover: 128 pages
Publisher: National Geographic Children’s Books (January 12, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1426305958
ISBN-13: 978-1426305955

Book description: The Spies of Mississippi is a compelling story of how state spies tried to block voting rights for African Americans during the Civil Rights era. This book sheds new light on one of the most momentous periods in American history.

Author Rick Bowers has combed through primary-source materials and interviewed surviving activists named in once-secret files, as well as the writings and oral histories of Mississippi civil rights leaders. Readers get first-hand accounts of how neighbors spied on neighbors, teachers spied on students, ministers spied on church-goers, and spies even spied on spies.

The Spies of Mississippi will inspire readers with the stories of the brave citizens who overcame the forces of white supremacy to usher in a new era of hope and freedom—an age that has recently culminated in the election of Barack Obama.

Book review: I found this story interesting and amazing that anyone would go to such lengths to treat people this way. This book gives a clearer picture of the south in the 1950s and 1960s and how people attempted to infiltrate the civil rights groups and stop them from succeeding.

This text book style story is a good read. – R.C., 15 yrs old

Stop It! (Ages 4-8)

Friday, December 4th, 2009

* Stop It!
Author: Sally O. Lee
Paperback: 36 pages
Publisher: BookSurge Publishing (October 26, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1439261148
ISBN-13: 978-1439261149

Book review: How do you stop a bully? By standing up for yourself and firmly shouting: Stop it!

Read along as Anabel plays dress-up and George teases her by stealing her dress up clothes and pulling her cat’s tail.

This little book helps kids (and siblings) stand up for themselves and shows bullies it’s not okay to tease others. A great book to begin a conversation with your kids about the subject.

Seventy Times Seven (Ages 6-10)

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.

Shadowmask (Ages 9-12)

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

Science Fair Winners: Bug Science (Ages 9-12)

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.

Sounds of the Wild: Safari (Ages 6-10)

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.

The Seeing Stick (Ages 4-8, 6-10)

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.

Silver Dragon Codex (Ages 9-12)

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

The Scarecrow’s Dance (Ages 4-8)

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.

Science Fair Winners: Crime Scene Science (Ages 9-12)

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.

Seed, Sprout, Pumpkin, Pie (Ages 4-8)

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!

Who Lives Here? Savanna Animals (Ages 4-8)

Monday, August 31st, 2009

* * Who Lives Here? Savanna Animals
Author: Deborah Hodge
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Paperback: 24 pages
Publisher: Kids Can Press (August 1, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1554530733
ISBN-13: 978-1554530731

Book description: The savanna is home to exciting animals whose bodies are suited to living on the warm, grassy plain. Elephants, giraffes, lions, meerkats, zebras and other animals have special ways of finding food, raising families and protecting themselves in this habitat with long dry seasons and shorter rainy seasons. The Who Lives Here? series looks at animals in their natural habitats – rain forests, polar regions, deserts, wetlands and savannas – and explains how the body and habits of each animal are suited to the place it lives.

Book Review: This is another great book in the series. What I really like about the Who Lives Here? books is that they are so accessible to little ones. Each animal is revealed close up and we learn what makes each so unique – the elephant’s trunk, the Giraffe’s long tongue and muscular neck, the meerkat’s sharp claws. This series makes it easy for little ones to learn about different animals, their habitats and some of their behaviors.

Sucks To Be Me (Ages 9-12, 12-Up)

Saturday, August 29th, 2009

* * / * * * Sucks to Be Me: The All-True Confessions of Mina Hamilton, Teen Vampire (maybe)
Author: Kimberly Pauley
Paperback
Publisher: Mirrorstone (August 26, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0786950285
ISBN-13: 978-0786950287

Book description: Mina Hamilton’s parents want her dead. (Or undead to be precise.) They’re vampires, and like it or not, Mina must decide whether to become a vampire herself. But Mina’s more interested in hanging out with best friend Serena and trying to catch the eye of the too-hot-for-high-school Nathan Able than in the vampire training classes she’s being forced to take. How’s a girl supposed to find the perfect prom date and pass third-year French when her mom and dad are breathing down her neck–literally?

Book review: I thought it was going to be dorky, but it wasn’t. It was really good. The story is realistic, funny and well put together. ~ N.C., 14 years old

Buy it on Amazon.

Sweet Music in Harlem (Ages 4-8)

Friday, July 17th, 2009

* * Sweet Music in Harlem
Author: Debbie A. Taylor
Illustrator: Frank Morrison
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Hardcover: 28 pages
Publisher: Lee & Low Books (April 2004)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1584301651
ISBN-13: 978-1584301653

Book description: C. J. needs to act fast. A photographer from Highnote magazine is on his way to photograph Uncle Click, a well-known jazz musician, but Uncle Click’s signature hat is missing. Now it’s up to C. J. to hunt down the hat in time for the photo shoot. Little does C. J. know that his whirlwind search through Harlem sets in motion the making of a magical moment of friendship and music.

Book review: To think that this story was inspired by a picture on a t-shirt the author’s husband wore! Creative story, wonderful illustrations that underscore jazz music and the way it flows. I loved the sense of community that is revealed as C.J. searches for his uncle’s hat. Both the story and the illustrations pop with warmth and color and flow soulfully together making their own sweet music.

Stuff To Hold Your Stuff (Ages 9-12)

Sunday, October 22nd, 2006

* * Stuff To Hold Your Stuff

Author: Ellen Warwick
Illustrator: Bernice Lum
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Spiral-bound: 80 pages
Publisher: Kids Can Press
ISBN: 1553377451

Make your own tote bags, wallets, purses, handy bags and more. A ‘you-can’do-it” book with detailed, but easy to follow instructions with great illustrations and plenty of creative room for each girl to craft and show off her own unique style. A great book for girls aged 9 -12…and hapless homemakers. Girls will love making “stuff to hold your stuff” for themselves and friends as gifts or just for fun. You don’t need to be a super-seamstress; you’ll be sure to find something in this book that you can make…and with a little help from mom (for those who need it), there’s no limit! The book itself makes a GREAT gift.

Buy now on Amazon.com

Say Please (Ages Pre-K)

Sunday, October 22nd, 2006

* Say Please

Author: Tony Ross
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Paperback: 28 pages
Publisher: Kane/Miller Book Publishers (September 2006)
ISBN: 1933605162

Perfect and endearing. A good choice for Pre-K. A young princess learns that she can get what she wants when she uses her manners and says “please” and “thankyou”. In no time your little one will fill in the blanks with the magic word as you read together.

Buy now on Amazon.com