Lynn Peppas
Presidents’ Day – Celebrations in My World … this is an interesting book for young readers. The table of contents begins with ‘What is a President?’ and it focus’ on the election of Barack Obama. The following pages allow for two pages each to focus on such subjects as ‘What is a Federal Holiday?’, ‘Young George Washington’, ‘Young Abraham Lincoln’, ‘How Americans Celebrate’, and in the back is a Presidential Quiz. The subjects include bold words found in the Glossary, and a ‘Did You Know?’ on each subject to direct the reader’s attention. Young readers will learn how Presidents’ Day was brought into law, and its impact on the citizens. In ‘Famous Celebrations’, ‘Did You Know?’ explains Laredo, TX celebrates George Washington’s Birthday for one full month!
I do take exception with the section called ‘Presidents’ Day Symbols’. It includes the story about young George Washington chopping down his father’s cherry tree and because he was so honest, George told his dad about it. Thus, a cherry pie has become a symbol of Presidents’ Day. The truth is George did not chop that tree down, not when he was young or old. The misstatement alone reduces my final review from great to okay. Facts should be checked before they are presented as truths, especially when written for children. My other problem with this book is the back cover indicates it as a Guided Reading: M, yet the title does not appear on the publisher’s web site for Guided Reading.
BIBLIO: 2010, Crabtree Publishing Company, Ages K-2, $8.95
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Juvenile Literature / Series
ISBN: 978-0-7787-4774-1
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 12/11/09
Friday, December 11, 2009
Independence Day – Celebrations in My World
Molly Aloian
This book starts with a table of contents that includes fifteen different subjects ranging from a definition of Independence Day to the Declaration of Independence to the American Flag, Parades, and Fireworks. Each subject is covered on two pages, with words in bold that are found in the Glossary and a “Did You Know?” on each subject to direct the reader’s attention. A child will learn about America being ruled by Great Britain, in language easy to read and comprehend. During Early Celebrations, readers will learn the first Independence Day was held in Boston, MA in 1783. The bolded Glossary words will direct them to the resource page in the back. Readers are encouraged to take a trip with their families, especially to Mount Rushmore in S. Dakota to view the faces of the four Presidents carved into the mountain. The National Archives Building in Washington, D.C. is not only free to tour, but also holds the Declaration of Independence.
One of the things I learned in reading for this review is there is a National Independence Day Parade held in Washington D.C., which just goes to show how universal the knowledge contained within this book is. I highly recommend it for ages K-2, but whoever reads it will learn something that was probably previously forgotten. This is an educational book worth keeping at home, home school, and at public school. My only problem with this book is the back cover indicates it as a Guided Reading: M, yet the title does not appear on the publisher’s web site for Guided Reading.
BIBLIO: 2010, Crabtree Publishing Company, Ages K-2, $8.95
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Juvenile Literature / Series
ISBN: 978-0-7787-4772-7
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 12/11/09
This book starts with a table of contents that includes fifteen different subjects ranging from a definition of Independence Day to the Declaration of Independence to the American Flag, Parades, and Fireworks. Each subject is covered on two pages, with words in bold that are found in the Glossary and a “Did You Know?” on each subject to direct the reader’s attention. A child will learn about America being ruled by Great Britain, in language easy to read and comprehend. During Early Celebrations, readers will learn the first Independence Day was held in Boston, MA in 1783. The bolded Glossary words will direct them to the resource page in the back. Readers are encouraged to take a trip with their families, especially to Mount Rushmore in S. Dakota to view the faces of the four Presidents carved into the mountain. The National Archives Building in Washington, D.C. is not only free to tour, but also holds the Declaration of Independence.
One of the things I learned in reading for this review is there is a National Independence Day Parade held in Washington D.C., which just goes to show how universal the knowledge contained within this book is. I highly recommend it for ages K-2, but whoever reads it will learn something that was probably previously forgotten. This is an educational book worth keeping at home, home school, and at public school. My only problem with this book is the back cover indicates it as a Guided Reading: M, yet the title does not appear on the publisher’s web site for Guided Reading.
BIBLIO: 2010, Crabtree Publishing Company, Ages K-2, $8.95
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Juvenile Literature / Series
ISBN: 978-0-7787-4772-7
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 12/11/09
Jamaica is Thankful
Juanita Havill
Illustrated by Anne Sibley O’Brien
Jamaica’s friend Kristin brings a big red shoebox over to Jamaica’s room and Kristin has a secret. Inside the box is a small kitten, Puffy, which Kristin cannot keep. Kristin already has an older cat who does not like Puffy, and she is hoping Jamaica will be able to keep the young kitten. That way, if Jamaica keeps the kitten, Kristin hopes she will still be able to come over and visit with Puffy. Kristin really wants Jamaica to keep Puffy, even though she sees it could be a problem for Jamaica. Even so, Jamaica agrees to hide the kitten in her closet. Therefore, a struggle begins for Jamaica … what she wants to do, and what she knows she should do. Her first problem began when her brother Ossie went into her bedroom and Jamaica had to hide Puffy in her closet. Ossie was very allergic to cat’s fur, and the kitten had been sleeping on his football jersey. From that point, Jamaica realized what she had to do. Kristin and Jamaica talked about the things they should be thankful for and Kristin found a home for Puffy.
The watercolor and pastel illustrations are engaging for the young readers. This book is part of a “Jamaica” series, and is excellent for young readers. The reinforced binding is helpful for public and school libraries.
BIBLIO: 2009, Houghton Mifflin Books for Children, Ages 5-8, $16.00
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Juvenile Fiction
ISBN: 978-0-618-98231-8
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 12/11/09
Illustrated by Anne Sibley O’Brien
Jamaica’s friend Kristin brings a big red shoebox over to Jamaica’s room and Kristin has a secret. Inside the box is a small kitten, Puffy, which Kristin cannot keep. Kristin already has an older cat who does not like Puffy, and she is hoping Jamaica will be able to keep the young kitten. That way, if Jamaica keeps the kitten, Kristin hopes she will still be able to come over and visit with Puffy. Kristin really wants Jamaica to keep Puffy, even though she sees it could be a problem for Jamaica. Even so, Jamaica agrees to hide the kitten in her closet. Therefore, a struggle begins for Jamaica … what she wants to do, and what she knows she should do. Her first problem began when her brother Ossie went into her bedroom and Jamaica had to hide Puffy in her closet. Ossie was very allergic to cat’s fur, and the kitten had been sleeping on his football jersey. From that point, Jamaica realized what she had to do. Kristin and Jamaica talked about the things they should be thankful for and Kristin found a home for Puffy.
The watercolor and pastel illustrations are engaging for the young readers. This book is part of a “Jamaica” series, and is excellent for young readers. The reinforced binding is helpful for public and school libraries.
BIBLIO: 2009, Houghton Mifflin Books for Children, Ages 5-8, $16.00
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Juvenile Fiction
ISBN: 978-0-618-98231-8
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 12/11/09
Mystery Vine – A Pumpkin Surprise
Cathryn Falwell
In this rhyming picture book, while this boy and girl help their mother with the garden, they discover a MYSTERY VINE! Choosing to allow the mystery vine to grow, the children and their mother tend the garden … planting seeds, pulling weeds, watering, and preparing the garden for the growing vegetables. It was time to harvest the ripe vegetables; yet, the mystery vine could still not be identified. At the end of the growing season, fall was on the way and the children still did not know what was growing on the mystery vine. The temperature was dropping outside, the old plants were dying, and finally the mystery vine was showing its fruit! The children and their mother enjoyed the harvest of all the vegetables.
Collages and full color art illustrations were warm and supportive for the poetry verses. Included at the end of the book are sections with recipes, gardening ideas, and craft projects. This is a sweet rhyming book for young readers.
BIBLIO: 2009, Greenwillow Book / Harpercollins Children’s Books, Ages 3-7, $16.99
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Rhyming Picture Book / Poetry
ISBN: 978-0-06-177198-9
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 12/11/09
In this rhyming picture book, while this boy and girl help their mother with the garden, they discover a MYSTERY VINE! Choosing to allow the mystery vine to grow, the children and their mother tend the garden … planting seeds, pulling weeds, watering, and preparing the garden for the growing vegetables. It was time to harvest the ripe vegetables; yet, the mystery vine could still not be identified. At the end of the growing season, fall was on the way and the children still did not know what was growing on the mystery vine. The temperature was dropping outside, the old plants were dying, and finally the mystery vine was showing its fruit! The children and their mother enjoyed the harvest of all the vegetables.
Collages and full color art illustrations were warm and supportive for the poetry verses. Included at the end of the book are sections with recipes, gardening ideas, and craft projects. This is a sweet rhyming book for young readers.
BIBLIO: 2009, Greenwillow Book / Harpercollins Children’s Books, Ages 3-7, $16.99
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Rhyming Picture Book / Poetry
ISBN: 978-0-06-177198-9
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 12/11/09
S is for Story – A Writer’s Alphabet
Esther Hershenhorn
Illustrated by Zachary Pullen
A through Z … this is the perfect writer’s alphabet book for young writers. “D is for the drafts we write” … it is the beginning, where the story just spills from inside. “E is for the page we edit” … copiously looking at what was written, and then checking for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors. This is also the time for checking the integrity of the characters and their dialogue. “I” covers ideas … writers have lots of those, and they come from everywhere. When at a loss for ideas, brainstorming can be very helpful … and carrying a handy writer’s notebook is helpful. Writers from the past and those in the present have found the “J” for journaling to be a powerful tool to their writing life. Under "K" is where the four common styles of writing are found … descriptive, persuasive, narrative, and expository. From the importance of plot and the six questions to ask while writing to revision and voice, this alphabet book is full of fascinating details and helpful information to inspire young writers. Included in the book are writer’s tips and quotes from published writers. Some of the published writers include Andrew Clements, Katherine Paterson, G. K. Chesterton, Brian Jacques, Jacqueline Woodson, P. L. Travers, and Kate DiCamillo. At the end of the book, the author includes a potpourri of information that is sure to serve as further motivation for young writers.
The illustrations, described as “character-oriented”, add so much more to the text; the illustrations are detailed, colorful, larger-than life, yet, child friendly and grabbing. Between the letters “D” and “E”, a reader will find a warm close-up of Abraham Lincoln. This is an excellent book for a home library, public and school library. Let us develop this young generation of writer’s … and give each one of them a copy of this book!
BIBLIO: 2009, Sleeping Bear Press, Ages 8-11, $17.95
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Juvenile Literature / Alphabet Book
ISBN: 978-1-58536-439-8
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 12/11/09
Illustrated by Zachary Pullen
A through Z … this is the perfect writer’s alphabet book for young writers. “D is for the drafts we write” … it is the beginning, where the story just spills from inside. “E is for the page we edit” … copiously looking at what was written, and then checking for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors. This is also the time for checking the integrity of the characters and their dialogue. “I” covers ideas … writers have lots of those, and they come from everywhere. When at a loss for ideas, brainstorming can be very helpful … and carrying a handy writer’s notebook is helpful. Writers from the past and those in the present have found the “J” for journaling to be a powerful tool to their writing life. Under "K" is where the four common styles of writing are found … descriptive, persuasive, narrative, and expository. From the importance of plot and the six questions to ask while writing to revision and voice, this alphabet book is full of fascinating details and helpful information to inspire young writers. Included in the book are writer’s tips and quotes from published writers. Some of the published writers include Andrew Clements, Katherine Paterson, G. K. Chesterton, Brian Jacques, Jacqueline Woodson, P. L. Travers, and Kate DiCamillo. At the end of the book, the author includes a potpourri of information that is sure to serve as further motivation for young writers.
The illustrations, described as “character-oriented”, add so much more to the text; the illustrations are detailed, colorful, larger-than life, yet, child friendly and grabbing. Between the letters “D” and “E”, a reader will find a warm close-up of Abraham Lincoln. This is an excellent book for a home library, public and school library. Let us develop this young generation of writer’s … and give each one of them a copy of this book!
BIBLIO: 2009, Sleeping Bear Press, Ages 8-11, $17.95
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Juvenile Literature / Alphabet Book
ISBN: 978-1-58536-439-8
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 12/11/09
Monday, November 9, 2009
Father Grumble
Adapted by John M Feierabend
Illustrated by Erik Plude
Based on a classic folksong, Father Grumble is a bearded old man, who challenged his wife that he could do more work in one day than she could in three. His wife accepted the challenge, and began doing Father Grumble’s chores one by one. First, she drove the plow and milked Tiny cow. It would be up to Father Grumble to feed the little pigs, watch the bracket hen so she didn’t lay her eggs where they couldn’t be found, and a reel of yarn must be wound. Father Grumble was expecting Tiny cow to cooperate, and when she did not, it just made his day longer, and harder. By the time his day was over, Father Grumble was more than happy to agree; his wife did more work in one day than he did in three.
This folksong is a reminder that things are not always, what they seem. The vivid illustrations bring the characters and animals to life. Beautifully painted, each page creates its own story. A fully notated version with all the words is included at the end of the book. This is a charming story for young readers who should relate to the chores that are completed at home.
BIBLIO: 2008, GIA Publications, Inc., Ages 3 - 6, $16.95
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book / Music Education
ISBN: 978-1-57999-756-4
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 11-5-09
Illustrated by Erik Plude
Based on a classic folksong, Father Grumble is a bearded old man, who challenged his wife that he could do more work in one day than she could in three. His wife accepted the challenge, and began doing Father Grumble’s chores one by one. First, she drove the plow and milked Tiny cow. It would be up to Father Grumble to feed the little pigs, watch the bracket hen so she didn’t lay her eggs where they couldn’t be found, and a reel of yarn must be wound. Father Grumble was expecting Tiny cow to cooperate, and when she did not, it just made his day longer, and harder. By the time his day was over, Father Grumble was more than happy to agree; his wife did more work in one day than he did in three.
This folksong is a reminder that things are not always, what they seem. The vivid illustrations bring the characters and animals to life. Beautifully painted, each page creates its own story. A fully notated version with all the words is included at the end of the book. This is a charming story for young readers who should relate to the chores that are completed at home.
BIBLIO: 2008, GIA Publications, Inc., Ages 3 - 6, $16.95
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book / Music Education
ISBN: 978-1-57999-756-4
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 11-5-09
My Aunt Came Back
Adapted by John M Feierabend
Illustrated by Melanie Champagne
This story is based on a classic folksong, “My Aunt Came Back”, written in 1704, with a new melody in 1751. The story begins with a group of ants at an anthill, and continues with an ant at different locations. Timbuktu shows a camel and a wooden shoe, and an ant carrying the wooden shoe. On the following page, the Aunt goes to Old Japan and then brings back a waving fan. Each page after an Aunt goes to a different location, and brings back a different item.
The illustrations are soft color, highly detailed, and enlarged to encompass the full page; also, showing how one ant can carry multiple times its own weight. Included within the book is a link to a free download of an mp3 recording of this folksong. It is Mr. Feierabend’s lifelong goal to preserve American musical heritage for future generations. A fully notated version with all the words is included at the end of the book. I respect Mr. Feierabend’s dedication to the preservation of American folksongs; however, I feel this is a very limited market.
BIBLIO: 2008, GIA Publications, Inc., Ages 3 - 6, $16.95
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book / Music Education
ISBN: 978-1-57999-680-2
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 11-5-09
Illustrated by Melanie Champagne
This story is based on a classic folksong, “My Aunt Came Back”, written in 1704, with a new melody in 1751. The story begins with a group of ants at an anthill, and continues with an ant at different locations. Timbuktu shows a camel and a wooden shoe, and an ant carrying the wooden shoe. On the following page, the Aunt goes to Old Japan and then brings back a waving fan. Each page after an Aunt goes to a different location, and brings back a different item.
The illustrations are soft color, highly detailed, and enlarged to encompass the full page; also, showing how one ant can carry multiple times its own weight. Included within the book is a link to a free download of an mp3 recording of this folksong. It is Mr. Feierabend’s lifelong goal to preserve American musical heritage for future generations. A fully notated version with all the words is included at the end of the book. I respect Mr. Feierabend’s dedication to the preservation of American folksongs; however, I feel this is a very limited market.
BIBLIO: 2008, GIA Publications, Inc., Ages 3 - 6, $16.95
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book / Music Education
ISBN: 978-1-57999-680-2
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 11-5-09
The Contest
Caroline Stellings
Rosy Taylor was almost twelve years old, and her favorite book ever was Anne of Green Gables. Her problem was she came from a poor family that did not have the money for books, so Rosy’s only copy was very used and missing a full 37 pages. There was a solution to her dilemma, however. There was soon going to be a contest, the Anne of Green Gables Look Alike Contest, and the first prize was a boxed set of all eight books in the Anne series by L.M. Montgomery and a sterling silver trophy. The contest would be a challenge for Rosy because her family did not have the resources to help with the required costume, nor a vehicle to get to the neighboring town where the contest was to be held. There was one other issue for Rosy; she was half Mohawk. Fortunately, for Rosy, she was a very determined young girl and she was not one to give up easily. Other obstacles did come her way; another young girl who was the spitting image of Anne of Green Gables was also competing in the contest, Rosy had a serious asthma attack that landed her in the hospital for a week just before the contest, and the vehicle taking Rosy and her family to the contest had a serious breakdown. Yet, Rosy was seriously determined. With an unbreakable spirit, Rosy persevered and was one of five girls standing on the stage, who would win, and what lessons would Rosy learn?
This is a great story of a young girl’s determination and spirit. The fact that Rosy was half Mohawk and came from a poor family should be an inspiration to any reader. I found this to be a fast read and should be in any library, personal, public or school.
BIBLIO: 2009, 7th Generation / Book Publishing Co., Ages 9 - 13, $9.95
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Juvenile Fiction
ISBN: 978-0-9779183-5-5
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 11-5-09
Rosy Taylor was almost twelve years old, and her favorite book ever was Anne of Green Gables. Her problem was she came from a poor family that did not have the money for books, so Rosy’s only copy was very used and missing a full 37 pages. There was a solution to her dilemma, however. There was soon going to be a contest, the Anne of Green Gables Look Alike Contest, and the first prize was a boxed set of all eight books in the Anne series by L.M. Montgomery and a sterling silver trophy. The contest would be a challenge for Rosy because her family did not have the resources to help with the required costume, nor a vehicle to get to the neighboring town where the contest was to be held. There was one other issue for Rosy; she was half Mohawk. Fortunately, for Rosy, she was a very determined young girl and she was not one to give up easily. Other obstacles did come her way; another young girl who was the spitting image of Anne of Green Gables was also competing in the contest, Rosy had a serious asthma attack that landed her in the hospital for a week just before the contest, and the vehicle taking Rosy and her family to the contest had a serious breakdown. Yet, Rosy was seriously determined. With an unbreakable spirit, Rosy persevered and was one of five girls standing on the stage, who would win, and what lessons would Rosy learn?
This is a great story of a young girl’s determination and spirit. The fact that Rosy was half Mohawk and came from a poor family should be an inspiration to any reader. I found this to be a fast read and should be in any library, personal, public or school.
BIBLIO: 2009, 7th Generation / Book Publishing Co., Ages 9 - 13, $9.95
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Juvenile Fiction
ISBN: 978-0-9779183-5-5
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 11-5-09
Gwen
Carolyn Pogue
London, England, 1895, Gwen Peters turned eleven years old. It was a difficult day for Gwen. Her dad had been very sick all day, until he finally passed away, leaving her an orphan. Before he died, he gave Gwen a book, White Wampum by Pauline Johnson, a Canadian Indian Princess. A neighbor, Mrs. Bostwick took control of the situation and called the doctor, and finally called Dr. Peters of the Girls Home. Since Gwen had no family to go to, the Girls Home was her best opportunity, and Gwen knew it. Within one day, her whole life had changed. The Girls Home was an organization, that after at least a year of training, young orphan girls go into service to gentlemen and ladies in England, Canada, Australia, or New Zealand. Gwen lived in a cottage with twenty other young girls; there were four bedrooms, and five girls to each bedroom. Their house matron believed, “the devil finds work for idle hands”, so between chores and lessons they were kept busy from 6.30 in the morning until after cleaning up from supper. A year later, girls were given the opportunity to volunteer to sail to Canada … Gwen was the first girl to raise her hand, and within minutes fifty girls had volunteered to change their lives forever. Gwen’s future was set, yet she had no idea of the adventures and hardships that were before her. Gwen’s life would come full circle, and know Canada was her future.
This story of Gwen is based on a true story. As a piece of historical fiction written for the young adult market, I found this novel very interesting. It covered a subject, Home Child, I was not familiar with, and therefore, was not only an engaging read, but educational.
BIBLIO: 2009, Sumach Press, Ages 10 +, $12.95
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Young Adult Novel / Historical Fiction
ISBN: 978-1-894549-80-6
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 11-5-09
London, England, 1895, Gwen Peters turned eleven years old. It was a difficult day for Gwen. Her dad had been very sick all day, until he finally passed away, leaving her an orphan. Before he died, he gave Gwen a book, White Wampum by Pauline Johnson, a Canadian Indian Princess. A neighbor, Mrs. Bostwick took control of the situation and called the doctor, and finally called Dr. Peters of the Girls Home. Since Gwen had no family to go to, the Girls Home was her best opportunity, and Gwen knew it. Within one day, her whole life had changed. The Girls Home was an organization, that after at least a year of training, young orphan girls go into service to gentlemen and ladies in England, Canada, Australia, or New Zealand. Gwen lived in a cottage with twenty other young girls; there were four bedrooms, and five girls to each bedroom. Their house matron believed, “the devil finds work for idle hands”, so between chores and lessons they were kept busy from 6.30 in the morning until after cleaning up from supper. A year later, girls were given the opportunity to volunteer to sail to Canada … Gwen was the first girl to raise her hand, and within minutes fifty girls had volunteered to change their lives forever. Gwen’s future was set, yet she had no idea of the adventures and hardships that were before her. Gwen’s life would come full circle, and know Canada was her future.
This story of Gwen is based on a true story. As a piece of historical fiction written for the young adult market, I found this novel very interesting. It covered a subject, Home Child, I was not familiar with, and therefore, was not only an engaging read, but educational.
BIBLIO: 2009, Sumach Press, Ages 10 +, $12.95
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Young Adult Novel / Historical Fiction
ISBN: 978-1-894549-80-6
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 11-5-09
The Knitting of Elizabeth Amelia
Patricia Lee Gauch
Illustrated by Barbara Lavallee
Elizabeth Amelia’s mother wanted a baby to cuddle and love, and not having one, she went to the attic and found some special wool in a trunk and knitted a beautiful baby. She was so soft even the cat liked to sleep with Elizabeth Amelia at night. Her mother would hum to her, and bounce her, and when she took her out, others wanted to hold Elizabeth Amelia she was so soft and cuddly. Eventually she grew old enough to attend school and went to the dances. Because Elizabeth Amelia was so soft and had so much bounce, the boys at school would line up just to be able to dance with her. Then she met James Elmer, and they loved to dance together and take walks in the woodsy woods. The best part was James Elmer loved wool, and he loved Elizabeth Amelia. She created the woolliest home in town with wool rugs, lamps, and doors. The only thing missing was children and since Elizabeth Amelia loved wool, she searched for the perfect wool to knit a sweet baby. Using a loose strand from her own left foot, Elizabeth Amelia knitted a baby girl and named her True. Then she knitted a baby boy, and named him Bounce. Then she knitted a set of twins, January and February. All the wool came from her legs, so she could not leave her rocking chair. Her husband, James Elmer loved her so much; he had to find more wool so Elizabeth Amelia would be back to her bouncy self.
Painted in transparent watercolor, the illustrations are bright and very colorful, sure to catch the eye of young children. This is an imaginative story of how a mother’s longing for children was creatively solved. Young children should be entertained by the idea of a family of knitted children and the very colorful illustrations.
BIBLIO: 2009, Henry Holt and Co., Ages 4 - 8, $16.99
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 978-0-8050-6535-0
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 11-5-09
Illustrated by Barbara Lavallee
Elizabeth Amelia’s mother wanted a baby to cuddle and love, and not having one, she went to the attic and found some special wool in a trunk and knitted a beautiful baby. She was so soft even the cat liked to sleep with Elizabeth Amelia at night. Her mother would hum to her, and bounce her, and when she took her out, others wanted to hold Elizabeth Amelia she was so soft and cuddly. Eventually she grew old enough to attend school and went to the dances. Because Elizabeth Amelia was so soft and had so much bounce, the boys at school would line up just to be able to dance with her. Then she met James Elmer, and they loved to dance together and take walks in the woodsy woods. The best part was James Elmer loved wool, and he loved Elizabeth Amelia. She created the woolliest home in town with wool rugs, lamps, and doors. The only thing missing was children and since Elizabeth Amelia loved wool, she searched for the perfect wool to knit a sweet baby. Using a loose strand from her own left foot, Elizabeth Amelia knitted a baby girl and named her True. Then she knitted a baby boy, and named him Bounce. Then she knitted a set of twins, January and February. All the wool came from her legs, so she could not leave her rocking chair. Her husband, James Elmer loved her so much; he had to find more wool so Elizabeth Amelia would be back to her bouncy self.
Painted in transparent watercolor, the illustrations are bright and very colorful, sure to catch the eye of young children. This is an imaginative story of how a mother’s longing for children was creatively solved. Young children should be entertained by the idea of a family of knitted children and the very colorful illustrations.
BIBLIO: 2009, Henry Holt and Co., Ages 4 - 8, $16.99
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 978-0-8050-6535-0
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 11-5-09
Saturday, October 3, 2009
Zero is the Leaves on the Tree
Betsy Franco
Illustrated by Shino Arihara
Counting from one to ten is a concept easily taught to children because they can handle the items to count: balls, pencils, marbles, and many other things. However, the concept of counting zero is not so easily taught. How do children touch a zero? This book shows children how to tactically understand what a zero is through simple shapes, objects and seasonal events. A few of the examples used are, when the snow has turned to slush and sleds cannot slide, the shape of an egg is a zero, or an empty ball bin on the recess playground. The sound snowflakes make when landing on mittens is a zero, an oak tree with no leaves in the cold of winter, and my favorite, the sound of stars filling the night sky. Even young children will be able to grasp the concept of zero with this easy to read and easy to understand this transferable skill.
The soft, colorful illustrations tell a second story to the author’s tale, and are fundamental to the children’s enjoyment.
BIBLIO: 2009, Tricycle Press, Ages 3 - 5, $15.99
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 978-1-58246-249-3
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 9/27/09
Illustrated by Shino Arihara
Counting from one to ten is a concept easily taught to children because they can handle the items to count: balls, pencils, marbles, and many other things. However, the concept of counting zero is not so easily taught. How do children touch a zero? This book shows children how to tactically understand what a zero is through simple shapes, objects and seasonal events. A few of the examples used are, when the snow has turned to slush and sleds cannot slide, the shape of an egg is a zero, or an empty ball bin on the recess playground. The sound snowflakes make when landing on mittens is a zero, an oak tree with no leaves in the cold of winter, and my favorite, the sound of stars filling the night sky. Even young children will be able to grasp the concept of zero with this easy to read and easy to understand this transferable skill.
The soft, colorful illustrations tell a second story to the author’s tale, and are fundamental to the children’s enjoyment.
BIBLIO: 2009, Tricycle Press, Ages 3 - 5, $15.99
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 978-1-58246-249-3
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 9/27/09
Monday, September 28, 2009
Bears on Chairs
Shirley Parenteau
Illustrated by David Walker
Sometimes sharing is not so easy to do. Four small bears, Calico, Fuzzy, Yellow, and Floppy, each have their own small chair. These chairs were made for small bears not for big bears. Which was just fine … until Big Brown Bear came along, who also wanted to sit on a small bear chair. The small bears tried to share a small chair with Big Brown Bear, but there just was not enough room for both of them. Big Brown Bear was so sad. He just wanted to sit on a chair too, but one small chair was not big enough for him. The four small bears got together and had a great idea – one that would make Big Brown Bear happy. Their idea was not just about making Big Brown Bear happy, but all five of the bears were happy, and the all learned a lesson in sharing.
This charming book with sweet pastel acrylic illustrations tells a wonderful story of sharing on a level that even preschool children will understand.
BIBLIO: 2009, Candlewick Press, Ages 3 - 5, $15.99
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 978-0-7636-3588-6
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 9/27/09
Illustrated by David Walker
Sometimes sharing is not so easy to do. Four small bears, Calico, Fuzzy, Yellow, and Floppy, each have their own small chair. These chairs were made for small bears not for big bears. Which was just fine … until Big Brown Bear came along, who also wanted to sit on a small bear chair. The small bears tried to share a small chair with Big Brown Bear, but there just was not enough room for both of them. Big Brown Bear was so sad. He just wanted to sit on a chair too, but one small chair was not big enough for him. The four small bears got together and had a great idea – one that would make Big Brown Bear happy. Their idea was not just about making Big Brown Bear happy, but all five of the bears were happy, and the all learned a lesson in sharing.
This charming book with sweet pastel acrylic illustrations tells a wonderful story of sharing on a level that even preschool children will understand.
BIBLIO: 2009, Candlewick Press, Ages 3 - 5, $15.99
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 978-0-7636-3588-6
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 9/27/09
Ned’s New Home
Kevin Tseng
Apples and apple pies … Ned just loved both. That was until his apple home began to rot and drip apple juice. Finally, Ned had to find a new home, but it wasn’t quite that easy. First Ned tried a pear, but it kept wobbling away. Next, Ned tried a watermelon, but it was too big. When Ned tried the blueberries, they just kept rolling away. The lemon was too sour, and Ned got lost in the green of the kiwi. Finally, Ned found a bunch of juicy red cherries. Each fruit Ned tried just wasn’t the same as the apple he used to live in. He was not ready for the big adventure that would lead to his new home, but he didn’t give up. Ned’s friends would enjoy his new home almost as much as he did.
The colorful watercolor illustrations bring the text to life and small children will delight in the simple story about a worm!
BIBLIO: 2009, Tricycle Press, Ages 3 - 5, $14.99
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 978-1-582-46297-4
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 9/27/09
Apples and apple pies … Ned just loved both. That was until his apple home began to rot and drip apple juice. Finally, Ned had to find a new home, but it wasn’t quite that easy. First Ned tried a pear, but it kept wobbling away. Next, Ned tried a watermelon, but it was too big. When Ned tried the blueberries, they just kept rolling away. The lemon was too sour, and Ned got lost in the green of the kiwi. Finally, Ned found a bunch of juicy red cherries. Each fruit Ned tried just wasn’t the same as the apple he used to live in. He was not ready for the big adventure that would lead to his new home, but he didn’t give up. Ned’s friends would enjoy his new home almost as much as he did.
The colorful watercolor illustrations bring the text to life and small children will delight in the simple story about a worm!
BIBLIO: 2009, Tricycle Press, Ages 3 - 5, $14.99
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 978-1-582-46297-4
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 9/27/09
Who Would Like a Christmas Tree?
Ellen Bryan Obed
Illustrated by Anne Hunter
Life on a Christmas tree farm is busy year round and it’s not just the farmer who has things to do. January through December the wildlife is depending on the tree farm for food and shelter. From the black-capped chickadees who count on the Christmas trees for three meals a day, to the field mice who never hibernates and nibbles the bark under the snow safe from predators. The white-tailed deer that snacks early in the morning and late in the day, and the robins that sit atop the Christmas trees and sings as the sun comes up and down each day, the tree farm is bustling with life well beyond the farmer and her family. Wild turkeys, wild flowers, monarch butterflies, and even garden spiders depend on the Christmas tree farm to be fed and protected, during the year. But what keeps the Christmas tree farm going? Each December families go to the plantation to choose their special Christmas tree. The farmer provides hot cider and spicy Christmas cookies for each family.
This book is a great reminder to every one of the practical resources that trees provide to wildlife. At the end of the book there is a description of how the farmer takes care of her Christmas tree farm. Educationally speaking, this book earns an “A”. While the colorful watercolor and ink illustrations complete the text, making it a more than a non-fiction piece, but a story-telling gem.
BIBLIO: 2009, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, Ages 4 - 8, $16.00
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Juvenile Non-Fiction
ISBN: 978-0-547-04625-9
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 9/27/09
Illustrated by Anne Hunter
Life on a Christmas tree farm is busy year round and it’s not just the farmer who has things to do. January through December the wildlife is depending on the tree farm for food and shelter. From the black-capped chickadees who count on the Christmas trees for three meals a day, to the field mice who never hibernates and nibbles the bark under the snow safe from predators. The white-tailed deer that snacks early in the morning and late in the day, and the robins that sit atop the Christmas trees and sings as the sun comes up and down each day, the tree farm is bustling with life well beyond the farmer and her family. Wild turkeys, wild flowers, monarch butterflies, and even garden spiders depend on the Christmas tree farm to be fed and protected, during the year. But what keeps the Christmas tree farm going? Each December families go to the plantation to choose their special Christmas tree. The farmer provides hot cider and spicy Christmas cookies for each family.
This book is a great reminder to every one of the practical resources that trees provide to wildlife. At the end of the book there is a description of how the farmer takes care of her Christmas tree farm. Educationally speaking, this book earns an “A”. While the colorful watercolor and ink illustrations complete the text, making it a more than a non-fiction piece, but a story-telling gem.
BIBLIO: 2009, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, Ages 4 - 8, $16.00
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Juvenile Non-Fiction
ISBN: 978-0-547-04625-9
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 9/27/09
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Elly – My True Story of the Holocaust
Elly Berkovits Gross
Before the Germans came, her father worked hard and her mother was a homemaker. Elly was an only child for ten year’s until her baby brother Adalbert was born. She took great joy in taking care of him, taking him to pick wild strawberries, blackberries, and wildflowers for their mother. Their parents had great dreams for their son … until the spring when the Nazis invaded Czechoslovakia. Life changed dramatically for Elly and her family. Adolf Hitler with his slogan, “Kill the Jews”, spread across one country to another and her family sustained one hardship after another. First her father was forced into hard labor, where he eventually died, then Elly, her mother and young brother were shipped away on cattle cars. As a child, Elly had blond hair, and blue eyes, like her fraternal Grandmother, perhaps that is why she survived the Holocaust – she looked more German than Jewish. Her childhood quickly ended. Although she got a taste of the Jewish discrimination while still living in her hometown of Simleu Silvaniei, Romania, a city in the valley by Meses Mountains. Elly’s nightmare was Auschwitz-II/Birkenau concentration camp in Poland and she never saw her mother or brother again. At the age of 15 she learned to survive horrific conditions that took it’s toll on her emotionally, physically, and personally. She persevered and one long torturous year later, the Allies and American forces freed the survivors of the concentration death camps. Elly’s story is compelling and a must read. From her childhood to loosing her parents and brother, to meeting Dr. Mengele, to meeting her husband, Elly’s story is one of suffering, survival, and finally joy.
This book is written to everyone, chapters are short, poetry is included, and anyone who doubts the reality of the Holocaust will become a believer after reading Elly’s book. About half way through are photographs of family, and concentration camps. It is a must read.
BIBLIO: 2009, Scholastic Inc., Ages 11 Up, $14.99
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Non-Fiction/Memoir
ISBN: 978-0-545-07494-0
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 9/5/09
Before the Germans came, her father worked hard and her mother was a homemaker. Elly was an only child for ten year’s until her baby brother Adalbert was born. She took great joy in taking care of him, taking him to pick wild strawberries, blackberries, and wildflowers for their mother. Their parents had great dreams for their son … until the spring when the Nazis invaded Czechoslovakia. Life changed dramatically for Elly and her family. Adolf Hitler with his slogan, “Kill the Jews”, spread across one country to another and her family sustained one hardship after another. First her father was forced into hard labor, where he eventually died, then Elly, her mother and young brother were shipped away on cattle cars. As a child, Elly had blond hair, and blue eyes, like her fraternal Grandmother, perhaps that is why she survived the Holocaust – she looked more German than Jewish. Her childhood quickly ended. Although she got a taste of the Jewish discrimination while still living in her hometown of Simleu Silvaniei, Romania, a city in the valley by Meses Mountains. Elly’s nightmare was Auschwitz-II/Birkenau concentration camp in Poland and she never saw her mother or brother again. At the age of 15 she learned to survive horrific conditions that took it’s toll on her emotionally, physically, and personally. She persevered and one long torturous year later, the Allies and American forces freed the survivors of the concentration death camps. Elly’s story is compelling and a must read. From her childhood to loosing her parents and brother, to meeting Dr. Mengele, to meeting her husband, Elly’s story is one of suffering, survival, and finally joy.
This book is written to everyone, chapters are short, poetry is included, and anyone who doubts the reality of the Holocaust will become a believer after reading Elly’s book. About half way through are photographs of family, and concentration camps. It is a must read.
BIBLIO: 2009, Scholastic Inc., Ages 11 Up, $14.99
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Non-Fiction/Memoir
ISBN: 978-0-545-07494-0
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 9/5/09
God Found Us You
Lisa Tawn Bergren
Illustrations by Laura J. Bryant
This is a story of a mother with an unfulfilled heart longing to love a child. The only way she knew to have a complete family was through prayer and faith. So she waited and believed, and seasons changed while she prayed “like crazy”, and one day, she believed God would bring a Little Fox for her to love. Finally, her prayers and dreams came true, and Little Fox die come into her life. It’s a story he loves to hear over and over … the day he came home. And so, Mama Fox explains to Little Fox how lonely she was before God brought him for her to love. She tells him how she waited and prayed for him … how he would look, and how he would smell.
This is a charming story of adoption, when faith and hope are given free reign and the timing is given to God, whose timing is always perfect. The illustrations are perfect for this book: reflecting Ms. Bryant’s talents with the detail. Adding to the frivolity of the book is the typeface used on the pages.
BIBLIO: 2009, HarperBlessings, Ages 3 - 7, $10.99
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 978-0-06-113176-9
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 9/3/09
Illustrations by Laura J. Bryant
This is a story of a mother with an unfulfilled heart longing to love a child. The only way she knew to have a complete family was through prayer and faith. So she waited and believed, and seasons changed while she prayed “like crazy”, and one day, she believed God would bring a Little Fox for her to love. Finally, her prayers and dreams came true, and Little Fox die come into her life. It’s a story he loves to hear over and over … the day he came home. And so, Mama Fox explains to Little Fox how lonely she was before God brought him for her to love. She tells him how she waited and prayed for him … how he would look, and how he would smell.
This is a charming story of adoption, when faith and hope are given free reign and the timing is given to God, whose timing is always perfect. The illustrations are perfect for this book: reflecting Ms. Bryant’s talents with the detail. Adding to the frivolity of the book is the typeface used on the pages.
BIBLIO: 2009, HarperBlessings, Ages 3 - 7, $10.99
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 978-0-06-113176-9
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 9/3/09
Meet My Neighbor, the Artist
Marc Crabtree
David Scott is a neighbor artist who works with paints and pencils. Mr. Scott introduces his wife and baby son and then shows steps he takes in painting his pictures. Paints must be placed on a glass palette and some mixed to create other colors. He has been painting a picture of a house, which he paints with his son on his lap. Paintings of ducks, a starling, and a bald eagle shows another side to Mr. Scott’s talent. Using pencils in drawings, he starts with very sharp pencils and a magnifying glass to get the details correct. When his projects are completed, he takes his pictures to a framer who then hangs them on a wall so Mr. Scott can see them before taking them to the gallery. At the gallery potential buyers can then view the pictures and purchase them.
Mr. Crabtree has included a picture glossary at the back of the book to help the reader understand included terms. The photographs were taken by the author and are colorful and help tell the story of the artist, Mr. Scott.
BIBLIO: 2009, Crabtree Publishing Co., Ages 4-6, $6.95
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Juvenile Literature
ISBN: 978-0-7787-4579-2
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 8/19/09
David Scott is a neighbor artist who works with paints and pencils. Mr. Scott introduces his wife and baby son and then shows steps he takes in painting his pictures. Paints must be placed on a glass palette and some mixed to create other colors. He has been painting a picture of a house, which he paints with his son on his lap. Paintings of ducks, a starling, and a bald eagle shows another side to Mr. Scott’s talent. Using pencils in drawings, he starts with very sharp pencils and a magnifying glass to get the details correct. When his projects are completed, he takes his pictures to a framer who then hangs them on a wall so Mr. Scott can see them before taking them to the gallery. At the gallery potential buyers can then view the pictures and purchase them.
Mr. Crabtree has included a picture glossary at the back of the book to help the reader understand included terms. The photographs were taken by the author and are colorful and help tell the story of the artist, Mr. Scott.
BIBLIO: 2009, Crabtree Publishing Co., Ages 4-6, $6.95
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Juvenile Literature
ISBN: 978-0-7787-4579-2
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 8/19/09
Peace Comes to Ajani
Keith Kelly
The effects of war have made an impact on Ajani and his family when his dad was killed in action. The repercussions seem to be insurmountable for Ajani, both at home and at school. Ajani developed a problem with anger that created a rift between him and his friends. Then a new student in Ajani’s school seemed to be getting along better with his friends than Ajani did. While Ajani tried to deal with his grief, his anger consumed all of his relationships … family, friends, and school. Through a series of unfortunate events, Ajani was given an opportunity to learn to deal with his grief. Finally, in an attempt to help Ajani manage his anger, his mother arranged an after school job for him. What should have been a positive example for Ajani, just created more tension, yet lead to a better life lesson in the end. Ajani not only finally found the peace he struggled for, but a richer life than he expected.
This is a wonderful story of redemption from tragedy and so timely given the status of our country’s armed forces. The illustrations provided by Mr. Kelly are colorful and dramatic adding the necessary touch.
BIBLIO: 2009, Carolina Wren Press, Ages 10-14, $9.95
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Fiction
ISBN: 978-0-932112-59-0
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 9/3/09
The effects of war have made an impact on Ajani and his family when his dad was killed in action. The repercussions seem to be insurmountable for Ajani, both at home and at school. Ajani developed a problem with anger that created a rift between him and his friends. Then a new student in Ajani’s school seemed to be getting along better with his friends than Ajani did. While Ajani tried to deal with his grief, his anger consumed all of his relationships … family, friends, and school. Through a series of unfortunate events, Ajani was given an opportunity to learn to deal with his grief. Finally, in an attempt to help Ajani manage his anger, his mother arranged an after school job for him. What should have been a positive example for Ajani, just created more tension, yet lead to a better life lesson in the end. Ajani not only finally found the peace he struggled for, but a richer life than he expected.
This is a wonderful story of redemption from tragedy and so timely given the status of our country’s armed forces. The illustrations provided by Mr. Kelly are colorful and dramatic adding the necessary touch.
BIBLIO: 2009, Carolina Wren Press, Ages 10-14, $9.95
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Fiction
ISBN: 978-0-932112-59-0
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 9/3/09
Reflections of Me – Girls and Body Image
Kris Hirschmann
In today’s society, body image has become a billion-dollar business. The media along with celebrity influence has produced an unrealistic expectation not just for women, but also for preteen and teen girls. The five chapters of “Reflections of Me – Girls and Body Image”, speaks frankly to young girls encouraging them to recognize the uniqueness of each one of them through personality, talents, strengths, and gifts. Girls are encouraged to develop hobbies and interests. Then to recognize the changes of their bodies through the normal developmental changes their bodies go through. Additionally, the young teen girls are advised to avoid dieting, but rather to eat healthy meals, get plenty of exercise, sleep well, improve their posture and practice good hygiene. The girls can also learn to dress appropriately while still reflecting their own style. To build a sense of self-esteem, the author recommends volunteering and becoming involved in sports. The author secured the advice of Dr. Woods of the Dept. of Psychology of Saddleback College, CA. Included in the book is a quiz to reinforce the knowledge learned, a glossary of the terms used, and additional pages where the reader can access resources regarding the information presented in the book.
This is a very well presented book of issues young teen and teenage girls will have to deal with. The language is up-to-date and celebrity personalities used as examples are current and positive.
BIBLIO: 2009, Compass Point Books, Ages 11-16, $27.99
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Non-Fiction
ISBN: 978-0-7565-4132-3
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 9/3/09
In today’s society, body image has become a billion-dollar business. The media along with celebrity influence has produced an unrealistic expectation not just for women, but also for preteen and teen girls. The five chapters of “Reflections of Me – Girls and Body Image”, speaks frankly to young girls encouraging them to recognize the uniqueness of each one of them through personality, talents, strengths, and gifts. Girls are encouraged to develop hobbies and interests. Then to recognize the changes of their bodies through the normal developmental changes their bodies go through. Additionally, the young teen girls are advised to avoid dieting, but rather to eat healthy meals, get plenty of exercise, sleep well, improve their posture and practice good hygiene. The girls can also learn to dress appropriately while still reflecting their own style. To build a sense of self-esteem, the author recommends volunteering and becoming involved in sports. The author secured the advice of Dr. Woods of the Dept. of Psychology of Saddleback College, CA. Included in the book is a quiz to reinforce the knowledge learned, a glossary of the terms used, and additional pages where the reader can access resources regarding the information presented in the book.
This is a very well presented book of issues young teen and teenage girls will have to deal with. The language is up-to-date and celebrity personalities used as examples are current and positive.
BIBLIO: 2009, Compass Point Books, Ages 11-16, $27.99
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Non-Fiction
ISBN: 978-0-7565-4132-3
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 9/3/09
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Giant Ground Sloth
Janet Riehecky
Illustrated by Jon Hughes
The Giant Ground Sloth, (JYE-uhnt SLAWTH) were huge hairy mammals that had thick brown hair that covered its bodies. They lived in caves in North and South America 1.9 million years ago during the prehistoric times. The Giant Ground Sloth’s appearance was that of a bear – and had a bear-like snout. They were as large as elephants and weighted about 6,000 pounds, or 2,720 kilograms. Their claws were sharp and when they walked their claws curled. The Giant Ground Sloth walked slowly, perhaps because of the curled claws, and used their strong tails for balance. They stood up to eat plants, using their long tongues to pull down the leaves to eat.
The fossils of the Giant Ground Sloth can be found in museums. No one knows why they died out about 8,000 thousand years ago. At the end of this picture book, is a glossary that includes the following terms from the text: balance, claw, fossil, mammal, museum, prehistoric, and snout. Information on additional resources, a web link, and an index can be found at the end of the book.
The colorful pictures of the Giant Ground Sloth are realistic and yet fascinating. Children should be enthralled by the pictures as they are read to and eventually learn the text. The vocabulary used for the intended grade level is appropriate and engaging. The science of the prehistoric life is detailed enough to encourage further reading, yet simple enough for age appropriate comprehension.
BIBLIO: 2009, Capstone Press, Ages K-1, $21.32
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 978-1-4296-0036-1
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 7/11/09
Illustrated by Jon Hughes
The Giant Ground Sloth, (JYE-uhnt SLAWTH) were huge hairy mammals that had thick brown hair that covered its bodies. They lived in caves in North and South America 1.9 million years ago during the prehistoric times. The Giant Ground Sloth’s appearance was that of a bear – and had a bear-like snout. They were as large as elephants and weighted about 6,000 pounds, or 2,720 kilograms. Their claws were sharp and when they walked their claws curled. The Giant Ground Sloth walked slowly, perhaps because of the curled claws, and used their strong tails for balance. They stood up to eat plants, using their long tongues to pull down the leaves to eat.
The fossils of the Giant Ground Sloth can be found in museums. No one knows why they died out about 8,000 thousand years ago. At the end of this picture book, is a glossary that includes the following terms from the text: balance, claw, fossil, mammal, museum, prehistoric, and snout. Information on additional resources, a web link, and an index can be found at the end of the book.
The colorful pictures of the Giant Ground Sloth are realistic and yet fascinating. Children should be enthralled by the pictures as they are read to and eventually learn the text. The vocabulary used for the intended grade level is appropriate and engaging. The science of the prehistoric life is detailed enough to encourage further reading, yet simple enough for age appropriate comprehension.
BIBLIO: 2009, Capstone Press, Ages K-1, $21.32
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 978-1-4296-0036-1
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 7/11/09
Giant Rhinoceros
Janet Riehecky
Illustrated by Jon Hughes
Giant Rhinoceros is the largest of the mammals to have ever walked on the earth, and they lived during the prehistoric era in Asia 30 million years ago. These dinosaurs looked like giraffes and grew up to 23 feet tall, or seven meters. Their necks were very long so they could reach the leaves on the tall trees, and walked on four legs, on hard hooves. They ate leaves all day long, using their strong lips to grab the leaves from the trees. Then they pulled the leaves from the trees using their four long front teeth. Their back teeth were flat which they used to chew. The Giant Rhinoceros are believed to have lived in herds while protecting their young from predators.
The fossils of this dinosaur can be found in museums. No one knows why they died out about 26 million years ago. At the end of this picture book, is a glossary that includes the following terms from the text: fossil, herd, hoof, mammal, museum, predator, and prehistoric. Information on additional resources, a web link, and an index can be found at the end of the book.
The colorful pictures of the Giant Rhinoceros are realistic and yet fascinating. Children should be enthralled by the pictures as they are read to and eventually learn the text. The vocabulary used for the intended grade level is appropriate and engaging. The science of the prehistoric life is detailed enough to encourage further reading, yet simple enough for age appropriate comprehension.
BIBLIO: 2009, Capstone Press, Ages K-1, $21.32
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 978-1-4296-0037-8
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 7/11/09
Illustrated by Jon Hughes
Giant Rhinoceros is the largest of the mammals to have ever walked on the earth, and they lived during the prehistoric era in Asia 30 million years ago. These dinosaurs looked like giraffes and grew up to 23 feet tall, or seven meters. Their necks were very long so they could reach the leaves on the tall trees, and walked on four legs, on hard hooves. They ate leaves all day long, using their strong lips to grab the leaves from the trees. Then they pulled the leaves from the trees using their four long front teeth. Their back teeth were flat which they used to chew. The Giant Rhinoceros are believed to have lived in herds while protecting their young from predators.
The fossils of this dinosaur can be found in museums. No one knows why they died out about 26 million years ago. At the end of this picture book, is a glossary that includes the following terms from the text: fossil, herd, hoof, mammal, museum, predator, and prehistoric. Information on additional resources, a web link, and an index can be found at the end of the book.
The colorful pictures of the Giant Rhinoceros are realistic and yet fascinating. Children should be enthralled by the pictures as they are read to and eventually learn the text. The vocabulary used for the intended grade level is appropriate and engaging. The science of the prehistoric life is detailed enough to encourage further reading, yet simple enough for age appropriate comprehension.
BIBLIO: 2009, Capstone Press, Ages K-1, $21.32
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 978-1-4296-0037-8
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 7/11/09
Giganotosaurus
Janet Riehecky
Illustrated by Jon Hughes
Giganotosaurus, (jig-a-NOTE-uh-SORE-us) is known as a big meat eater and one of the longest that walked on two clawed feet. This dinosaur inhabited the South American region during the prehistoric times, 100 million years ago. The Giganotosaurus was as long as a bus, 47 feet, or 14 meters, and had a thin, pointy tail that it held straight out as it walked. Its two small hands had three fingers with sharp claws on each. It had a good sense of smell, which it used to smell its prey from long distances. This dinosaur was known to attack large plant eaters, and possibly hunted in packs. The teeth of the Giganotosaurus were very sharp and were shaped like arrow tips.
The fossils of this dinosaur can be found in museums. No one knows why they died out millions of years ago. At the end of this picture book, is a glossary that includes the following terms from the text: claw, fossil, museum, pack, prehistoric, and prey. Information on additional resources, a web link, and an index can be found at the end of the book.
The colorful pictures of the Giganotosaurus are realistic and yet fascinating. Children should be enthralled by the pictures as they are read to and eventually learn the text. The vocabulary used for the intended grade level is appropriate and engaging. The science of the prehistoric life is detailed enough to encourage further reading, yet simple enough for age appropriate comprehension.
BIBLIO: 2009, Capstone Press, Ages K-1, $21.32
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 978-1-4296-0038-5
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 7/11/09
Illustrated by Jon Hughes
Giganotosaurus, (jig-a-NOTE-uh-SORE-us) is known as a big meat eater and one of the longest that walked on two clawed feet. This dinosaur inhabited the South American region during the prehistoric times, 100 million years ago. The Giganotosaurus was as long as a bus, 47 feet, or 14 meters, and had a thin, pointy tail that it held straight out as it walked. Its two small hands had three fingers with sharp claws on each. It had a good sense of smell, which it used to smell its prey from long distances. This dinosaur was known to attack large plant eaters, and possibly hunted in packs. The teeth of the Giganotosaurus were very sharp and were shaped like arrow tips.
The fossils of this dinosaur can be found in museums. No one knows why they died out millions of years ago. At the end of this picture book, is a glossary that includes the following terms from the text: claw, fossil, museum, pack, prehistoric, and prey. Information on additional resources, a web link, and an index can be found at the end of the book.
The colorful pictures of the Giganotosaurus are realistic and yet fascinating. Children should be enthralled by the pictures as they are read to and eventually learn the text. The vocabulary used for the intended grade level is appropriate and engaging. The science of the prehistoric life is detailed enough to encourage further reading, yet simple enough for age appropriate comprehension.
BIBLIO: 2009, Capstone Press, Ages K-1, $21.32
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 978-1-4296-0038-5
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 7/11/09
Megalosaurus
Janet Riehecky
Illustrated by Jon Hughes
Megalosaurus, (MEG-ah-low-SORE-us) has the honor of being the first dinosaur to be given a name – Megalosaurus means “Great Lizard”. This Great Lizard roamed Europe during the prehistoric times about 170 million years ago. The Megalosaurus was smaller than the Giganotogaurus, about the size of a small bus, ten feet tall, or three meters, and 30 feet long, or nine meters. It had two legs and walked on its toes, which pointed out. This dinosaur had a large tail that stuck out straight when it was walking. Its hands had three fingers and each finger had a hooked claw on it. The Megalosaurus may have hunted in packs and chased large plant eaters, jumping on its prey. While catching its prey, it may have taken large bites with its sharp teeth.
The fossils of the Megalosaurus can be found in museums. No one knows why they died out about 155 millions of years ago. At the end of this picture book, is a glossary that includes the following terms from the text: claw, fossil, hunt, museum, pack, prehistoric, and prey. Information on additional resources, a web link, and an index can be found at the end of the book.
The colorful pictures of the Megalosaurus are realistic and yet fascinating. Children should be enthralled by the pictures as they are read to and eventually learn the text. The vocabulary used for the intended grade level is appropriate and engaging. The science of the prehistoric life is detailed enough to encourage further reading, yet simple enough for age appropriate comprehension.
BIBLIO: 2009, Capstone Press, Ages K-1, $21.32
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 978-1-4296-0039-2
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 7/11/09
Illustrated by Jon Hughes
Megalosaurus, (MEG-ah-low-SORE-us) has the honor of being the first dinosaur to be given a name – Megalosaurus means “Great Lizard”. This Great Lizard roamed Europe during the prehistoric times about 170 million years ago. The Megalosaurus was smaller than the Giganotogaurus, about the size of a small bus, ten feet tall, or three meters, and 30 feet long, or nine meters. It had two legs and walked on its toes, which pointed out. This dinosaur had a large tail that stuck out straight when it was walking. Its hands had three fingers and each finger had a hooked claw on it. The Megalosaurus may have hunted in packs and chased large plant eaters, jumping on its prey. While catching its prey, it may have taken large bites with its sharp teeth.
The fossils of the Megalosaurus can be found in museums. No one knows why they died out about 155 millions of years ago. At the end of this picture book, is a glossary that includes the following terms from the text: claw, fossil, hunt, museum, pack, prehistoric, and prey. Information on additional resources, a web link, and an index can be found at the end of the book.
The colorful pictures of the Megalosaurus are realistic and yet fascinating. Children should be enthralled by the pictures as they are read to and eventually learn the text. The vocabulary used for the intended grade level is appropriate and engaging. The science of the prehistoric life is detailed enough to encourage further reading, yet simple enough for age appropriate comprehension.
BIBLIO: 2009, Capstone Press, Ages K-1, $21.32
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 978-1-4296-0039-2
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 7/11/09
Treetures: The Search for Autumn
Judith Hope Blau and Ellie O’Ryan
Illustrated by Paul E. Nunn
Treetures are creatures of an enchanted forest called Nutley Grove. These creatures, described in the beginning of the book, all work together to prepare the forest for the coming season changes from summer to autumn, and then to winter. In this story, the Treetures are known as Mudsters, and they live in a big oak tree performing each of their duties as they prepare for the coming Winter Feast. The Young Sproutlings, Chip, Petals and Pod, are the first to notice the change in the leaves around the Great Oak and their questions can only be answered by the Sunbeam Team, Chlorophyll and Chlorophyllis. The Sunbeam Team are on their way to a sunnier vacation spot, and taking the color from the leaves with them. Spring, a Treedom Fighter encouraged the Sproutlings to find Autumn, the Leaf Turner. Wanting to help with the responsibilities, the young Sproutlings made their way to Mama Greenleaf who was busy making a blanket of fallen leaves to cover the forest floor. As the Sproutlings proceeded, they found Rootie and Roothie, the Rooters, who were preparing the roots for the coming temperature changes by covering the roots with leaves and twigs. Stomper, the Compost Master, was busy making mulch to feed the trees in the spring. As the Sproutlings continued their journey, they met with the Sap Tappers, Woody and Phloemina, hard at work protecting the vessels within the Great Oak. The Sap Tappers explained to the Sproutlings the vessels in the tree provided the food and water in the spring. When Autumn the Leaf Turner arrived, a fun time was had by all at a Fall Fair. Rides such as a Leaf-Go-Round, Canopy Coaster, Bark Climbing, Root Scooter, and a March Mulch.
The easy science of the Treeture’s helps early readers understand the changing of the leaves from green to other colors and why the leaves fall. At the end of the book, a non-inclusive series of facts are provided to explain what trees provide. Additionally, a link to americanforests.org is provided, the book is printed on recycled paper, and by purchasing this book it suggests a tree is planted. The illustrations are colorful and endearing to children.
My only concern is while the easy science is explained in terms using inaccurate facts, once a child begins a science class on photosynthesis there might be some confusion between the science facts explained by the characters from the book and the textbook facts.
BIBLIO: 2008, Penguin Young Readers, Ages 4 to 6, $3.99
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 978-0-448-45057-5
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 7/11/09
Illustrated by Paul E. Nunn
Treetures are creatures of an enchanted forest called Nutley Grove. These creatures, described in the beginning of the book, all work together to prepare the forest for the coming season changes from summer to autumn, and then to winter. In this story, the Treetures are known as Mudsters, and they live in a big oak tree performing each of their duties as they prepare for the coming Winter Feast. The Young Sproutlings, Chip, Petals and Pod, are the first to notice the change in the leaves around the Great Oak and their questions can only be answered by the Sunbeam Team, Chlorophyll and Chlorophyllis. The Sunbeam Team are on their way to a sunnier vacation spot, and taking the color from the leaves with them. Spring, a Treedom Fighter encouraged the Sproutlings to find Autumn, the Leaf Turner. Wanting to help with the responsibilities, the young Sproutlings made their way to Mama Greenleaf who was busy making a blanket of fallen leaves to cover the forest floor. As the Sproutlings proceeded, they found Rootie and Roothie, the Rooters, who were preparing the roots for the coming temperature changes by covering the roots with leaves and twigs. Stomper, the Compost Master, was busy making mulch to feed the trees in the spring. As the Sproutlings continued their journey, they met with the Sap Tappers, Woody and Phloemina, hard at work protecting the vessels within the Great Oak. The Sap Tappers explained to the Sproutlings the vessels in the tree provided the food and water in the spring. When Autumn the Leaf Turner arrived, a fun time was had by all at a Fall Fair. Rides such as a Leaf-Go-Round, Canopy Coaster, Bark Climbing, Root Scooter, and a March Mulch.
The easy science of the Treeture’s helps early readers understand the changing of the leaves from green to other colors and why the leaves fall. At the end of the book, a non-inclusive series of facts are provided to explain what trees provide. Additionally, a link to americanforests.org is provided, the book is printed on recycled paper, and by purchasing this book it suggests a tree is planted. The illustrations are colorful and endearing to children.
My only concern is while the easy science is explained in terms using inaccurate facts, once a child begins a science class on photosynthesis there might be some confusion between the science facts explained by the characters from the book and the textbook facts.
BIBLIO: 2008, Penguin Young Readers, Ages 4 to 6, $3.99
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 978-0-448-45057-5
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 7/11/09
Sunday, July 12, 2009
The Adventures of The Bailey School Kids – Wizards Don’t Need Computers
Debbie Dadey and Marcia Thornton Jones
Illustrations by John Steven Gurney
Cover Art by Nathan Hale
Cover Design by Alison Klapthor
The major characters in the story, Liza, Eddie, Howie, and Melody are third graders who have reports to write on England. Bailey City library has a new assistant, Mr. Merle, who looks the part of King Arthur’s Merlin. Due to the children’s imagination and seemingly innocuous input from Mr. Merle, the four kids were off and running with very suspicious ideas about Mr. Merle’s intentions. After a few not-so brilliant plans and activities, they found what appeared to be a crystal ball and a magic wand in Mr. Merle’s library office. Finally, the four kids discover Mr. Merle’s true motive for the library and the children of Bailey City. The ending resolved very quickly, with no resolution between the four kids and Mr. Merle. I personally did not like the book because I found it flat and not engaging, not one that children would want to read over and over.
BIBLIO: 1996, Scholastic Inc., Ages 7 to 10, $3.99
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Chapter Book
ISBN: 978-0-590-50962-6
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 4/09
Illustrations by John Steven Gurney
Cover Art by Nathan Hale
Cover Design by Alison Klapthor
The major characters in the story, Liza, Eddie, Howie, and Melody are third graders who have reports to write on England. Bailey City library has a new assistant, Mr. Merle, who looks the part of King Arthur’s Merlin. Due to the children’s imagination and seemingly innocuous input from Mr. Merle, the four kids were off and running with very suspicious ideas about Mr. Merle’s intentions. After a few not-so brilliant plans and activities, they found what appeared to be a crystal ball and a magic wand in Mr. Merle’s library office. Finally, the four kids discover Mr. Merle’s true motive for the library and the children of Bailey City. The ending resolved very quickly, with no resolution between the four kids and Mr. Merle. I personally did not like the book because I found it flat and not engaging, not one that children would want to read over and over.
BIBLIO: 1996, Scholastic Inc., Ages 7 to 10, $3.99
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Chapter Book
ISBN: 978-0-590-50962-6
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 4/09
The Astounding Nervous System – How Does My Brain Work?
John Burstein (Slim Goodbody)
Illustrations by Mike Ray, Ink Tycoon
Pictures Credits istockphoto, Shutterstock, and Slim Goodbody
Medical Illustrations by Colette Sands, Render Rancy, and Mike Ray
Huff and Puff, Ticker, Cognos, Squirt, Gurgle, and Flex and Strut will engage children of almost any age – including adults – in the informal education of how the human body works. These characters are known as “Body Buddies”, and along with the pictures, this full-color addition to Slim Goodbody’s series is not only educational without seeming so, but is just a fun read. The author has taken complex information and reduced it to a simplified form. Included in this book is a fun review, amazing facts, a glossary, additional resources, and an index. Mr. Burstein (aka Slim Goodbody) knows what he is doing and how to get his message across. As I said, this book is part of a series, I recommend you get them all – your children will not be bored, and neither will you! The entire series would be an excellent addition to elementary classrooms.
BIBLIO: 2009, Crabtree Publishing Company, Ages 6 to 65, $8.95
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Educational / Illustrated Book
ISBN: 978-0-7787-4428-3
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 4/09
Illustrations by Mike Ray, Ink Tycoon
Pictures Credits istockphoto, Shutterstock, and Slim Goodbody
Medical Illustrations by Colette Sands, Render Rancy, and Mike Ray
Huff and Puff, Ticker, Cognos, Squirt, Gurgle, and Flex and Strut will engage children of almost any age – including adults – in the informal education of how the human body works. These characters are known as “Body Buddies”, and along with the pictures, this full-color addition to Slim Goodbody’s series is not only educational without seeming so, but is just a fun read. The author has taken complex information and reduced it to a simplified form. Included in this book is a fun review, amazing facts, a glossary, additional resources, and an index. Mr. Burstein (aka Slim Goodbody) knows what he is doing and how to get his message across. As I said, this book is part of a series, I recommend you get them all – your children will not be bored, and neither will you! The entire series would be an excellent addition to elementary classrooms.
BIBLIO: 2009, Crabtree Publishing Company, Ages 6 to 65, $8.95
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Educational / Illustrated Book
ISBN: 978-0-7787-4428-3
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 4/09
Princess, A Lucky Kitten
Barbie Heit Schwaeber
Illustrations by Catherine Herta
Princess is a lucky kitten, adopted by Jin, from a local pet shelter. After a day of shopping with her mom, Jin decides to use her own money to rescue Princess, and after receiving advice on care for the new kitten, mom, Jin, and Princess go home. Jin and her family live in Chinatown, so the reader is afforded a glimpse into the Chinese culture. The book is written with the endorsement of the American Veterinary Medical Association, with basic information a child would need to take care of a young kitten. While the story is less fiction and more instructive, it is a good find for a child interested in a kitten, specifically Persians. One of the best parts of this book is the inclusion of the read-along CD, which makes for an independent reader. The illustrations are colorful, engaging, and are a major part of the success of the story. Unlike most storybooks, this one includes web site information for the American Veterinary Medical Association and Soundprints. Since this book is a multi-cultural glimpse of the Chinese culture and the care of a kitten, it would be an excellent addition to elementary classrooms.
BIBLIO: 2007, Soundprints, Ages 9 to 12, $4.95
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 978-15-92496-754
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 4/09
Illustrations by Catherine Herta
Princess is a lucky kitten, adopted by Jin, from a local pet shelter. After a day of shopping with her mom, Jin decides to use her own money to rescue Princess, and after receiving advice on care for the new kitten, mom, Jin, and Princess go home. Jin and her family live in Chinatown, so the reader is afforded a glimpse into the Chinese culture. The book is written with the endorsement of the American Veterinary Medical Association, with basic information a child would need to take care of a young kitten. While the story is less fiction and more instructive, it is a good find for a child interested in a kitten, specifically Persians. One of the best parts of this book is the inclusion of the read-along CD, which makes for an independent reader. The illustrations are colorful, engaging, and are a major part of the success of the story. Unlike most storybooks, this one includes web site information for the American Veterinary Medical Association and Soundprints. Since this book is a multi-cultural glimpse of the Chinese culture and the care of a kitten, it would be an excellent addition to elementary classrooms.
BIBLIO: 2007, Soundprints, Ages 9 to 12, $4.95
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 978-15-92496-754
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 4/09
Mia, Matt and the Turkey Chase
Annie Langlois
Illustrated by Jimmy Beaulieu
Matt and Mia live a double life with their Uncle Orlando, who is an animal trainer. During the school year the family lives in the city, and during the summer months, they live in a cottage on the shores of Blackfly Lake. This particular summer, Uncle Orlando is training poultry: ducks, a rooster, hens and their chicks, and one huge turkey!
“Flooooblooobloobloo, flooooblooobloobloo!” Alfred greets Matt and Mia. Matt thinks Alfred is a mutant.
Uncle Orlando says the turkey, Alfred, is going to star in a science-fiction film, and Matt and Mia’s job is to keep the chicken coop clean. Before too long, Alfred disappears and strange things start to happen. While looking for Alfred Matt and Mia meet a neighbor named, Maria. Uncle Orlando and Maria become friends and Matt and Mia think they start to see signs of Alfred around Maria’s house.
Flowers from Maria’s garden are picked, left on her porch, and no one seems to know how, the chickens in Uncle Orlando’s coop start acting very funny, Uncle Orlando’s pedal boat disappears, Alfred is seen wearing Uncle Orlando’s blue checkered shirt, and soon Alfred is seen escaping to the nearby island in the pedal boat.
This story is one big adventure, and it is all about love. How Alfred the turkey, Uncle Orlando the animal trainer, Matt and Mia, and Maria, work out the details of unrequited love. Written as a first novel, this publication meets the reading level of a first chapter book. It is an entertaining story and the black ink sketches are comical and supportive to the story.
BIBLIO: 2004, Formac Publishing Company Limited, Ages 5 to 7, $5.95
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: First Novels
ISBN: 978-0-88780-763-3
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 5/09
Illustrated by Jimmy Beaulieu
Matt and Mia live a double life with their Uncle Orlando, who is an animal trainer. During the school year the family lives in the city, and during the summer months, they live in a cottage on the shores of Blackfly Lake. This particular summer, Uncle Orlando is training poultry: ducks, a rooster, hens and their chicks, and one huge turkey!
“Flooooblooobloobloo, flooooblooobloobloo!” Alfred greets Matt and Mia. Matt thinks Alfred is a mutant.
Uncle Orlando says the turkey, Alfred, is going to star in a science-fiction film, and Matt and Mia’s job is to keep the chicken coop clean. Before too long, Alfred disappears and strange things start to happen. While looking for Alfred Matt and Mia meet a neighbor named, Maria. Uncle Orlando and Maria become friends and Matt and Mia think they start to see signs of Alfred around Maria’s house.
Flowers from Maria’s garden are picked, left on her porch, and no one seems to know how, the chickens in Uncle Orlando’s coop start acting very funny, Uncle Orlando’s pedal boat disappears, Alfred is seen wearing Uncle Orlando’s blue checkered shirt, and soon Alfred is seen escaping to the nearby island in the pedal boat.
This story is one big adventure, and it is all about love. How Alfred the turkey, Uncle Orlando the animal trainer, Matt and Mia, and Maria, work out the details of unrequited love. Written as a first novel, this publication meets the reading level of a first chapter book. It is an entertaining story and the black ink sketches are comical and supportive to the story.
BIBLIO: 2004, Formac Publishing Company Limited, Ages 5 to 7, $5.95
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: First Novels
ISBN: 978-0-88780-763-3
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 5/09
Hooray for Snow!
Kazuo Iwamura
Squirrels, Mick, Mack, and Molly woke up to find snow in the forest and the two brothers and sister ran outside in their pajamas to play outside. Quickly they were called back inside by their parents to put on warm clothes and get a warm breakfast. Their Papa said it was too cold to play in the snow with them. Their Mama said she had too much work to play in the snow with them.
Tugging on their sled, the three squirrels discovered it was harder then they thought and really needed their Papa's help. Finally engaging Papa's help in pulling the sled, Mick, Mack, and Molly had a great sled ride through the snowy forest.
Eventually, the three squirrels were dumped into a snowdrift, and their Papa began laughing. This got him involved in the sled riding, where he also was dumped into a snowdrift. Soon, all the squirrels were in need of more help and Papa engaged the Mama in the sled ride. At the end, they all shouted "Hooray for Snow!"
This book is very simplistic and the text is not engaging by itself. The colorful illustrations make the story.
BIBLIO: 2008, North-South Books Inc., Ages 5 to 7, $15.95
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 978-0-7358-2219-1
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 5/09
Squirrels, Mick, Mack, and Molly woke up to find snow in the forest and the two brothers and sister ran outside in their pajamas to play outside. Quickly they were called back inside by their parents to put on warm clothes and get a warm breakfast. Their Papa said it was too cold to play in the snow with them. Their Mama said she had too much work to play in the snow with them.
Tugging on their sled, the three squirrels discovered it was harder then they thought and really needed their Papa's help. Finally engaging Papa's help in pulling the sled, Mick, Mack, and Molly had a great sled ride through the snowy forest.
Eventually, the three squirrels were dumped into a snowdrift, and their Papa began laughing. This got him involved in the sled riding, where he also was dumped into a snowdrift. Soon, all the squirrels were in need of more help and Papa engaged the Mama in the sled ride. At the end, they all shouted "Hooray for Snow!"
This book is very simplistic and the text is not engaging by itself. The colorful illustrations make the story.
BIBLIO: 2008, North-South Books Inc., Ages 5 to 7, $15.95
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 978-0-7358-2219-1
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 5/09
Count Down to Summer
One-hundred and eighty poems, riddles, and rhymes for every day of school. Just a few of the titles I came across, A Billion Years A.D., Gold Teeth, Dead Weight, I was Your Teacher Once, Dolly and Dilly, The Loneliest Creature, Food Fight, Rabbit Math, Riddle, Who Can Tell?, Alphabet Game, Beneath a Shady Tree, The Most Common Vowel … and, the most interesting title I found, Punxsutawney Phil.
Some of the poems rhyme and some do not. Some of the poems are relevant to school topics, and others are just relevant to miscellaneous subjects as #38 Ocean Motion, or #114 Girl and Boy. Number 42 talks about Animals at Odds … snails and whales, pachyderms and worms, newts and bandicoots.
Civil War Couplets, #64, is actually educational, in a couplet sort of way. There are a few of the poems most kids will want to pass over, a few of the riddles they will not give any time to, but within the pages of this book are a few fun rhymes the younger set would enjoy and might want to repeat.
At best, it’s a one-time read and the kids will want to pass it along to another pal, or to another class. At worst it will languish on a bookshelf somewhere before the cover is torn off and returned to the publisher and the book is tossed in a trash can. The illustrations are black ink and very elementary and do not add to the text of the book. Perhaps if the illustrations were more engaging, the poetry and riddles would be more attractive.
BIBLIO: 2009, Little Brown Books for Young Readers, Ages 8 to 12, $15.99
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Poetry Book
ISBN: 978-0-316-04318-2
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 5/09
Some of the poems rhyme and some do not. Some of the poems are relevant to school topics, and others are just relevant to miscellaneous subjects as #38 Ocean Motion, or #114 Girl and Boy. Number 42 talks about Animals at Odds … snails and whales, pachyderms and worms, newts and bandicoots.
Civil War Couplets, #64, is actually educational, in a couplet sort of way. There are a few of the poems most kids will want to pass over, a few of the riddles they will not give any time to, but within the pages of this book are a few fun rhymes the younger set would enjoy and might want to repeat.
At best, it’s a one-time read and the kids will want to pass it along to another pal, or to another class. At worst it will languish on a bookshelf somewhere before the cover is torn off and returned to the publisher and the book is tossed in a trash can. The illustrations are black ink and very elementary and do not add to the text of the book. Perhaps if the illustrations were more engaging, the poetry and riddles would be more attractive.
BIBLIO: 2009, Little Brown Books for Young Readers, Ages 8 to 12, $15.99
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Poetry Book
ISBN: 978-0-316-04318-2
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 5/09
Bullies Never Win
Margery Cuyler
Illustrations by Arthur Howard
In first grade, Jessica faced a lesson that had nothing to do with getting her homework done, or even getting it turned in on time. Jessica's biggest problem was Brenda Bailey. Every day Jessica went to school, Brenda found ways to bully her. From the clothes Jessica wore, to the way she played kickball, even to the homework Jessica turned in.
If that was not enough for Jessica, she also worried about other things. For example, Jessica worried if her socks matched, if she could find her barrettes, and even worried about her knobby knees. For a first grader, Jessica had a lot to worry about.
Her teacher, Mr. Martin, had advised his class to "just ignore" the bullies. But Jessica didn't think she could do that. So, after telling her mom about the problem with Brenda, Jessica came up with a plan.
The next day, when Brenda began her bulling ways, Jessica put her plan into action. Brenda was stunned, embarrassed, and finally quiet.
Can you imagine what Jessica's plan was? Could your child learn from Jessica? If your child has been bullied, or knows a child who is being bullied, the strategy Jessica used just may be helpful. This is a book that should be kept in all elementary classes, and read out-loud regularly. Empowering children starts early, and Jessica's story and her solution are about empowering children.
The colorful illustrations are humorous and on target for the elementary grades. If given the opportunity, children in grades 1st through 4th will enjoy picking this book up and reading it by themselves.
BIBLIO: 2009, Simon & Schuster Books For Young Readers, Ages 5 to 9, $16.99
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 978-0-689-86187-1
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 5/09
Illustrations by Arthur Howard
In first grade, Jessica faced a lesson that had nothing to do with getting her homework done, or even getting it turned in on time. Jessica's biggest problem was Brenda Bailey. Every day Jessica went to school, Brenda found ways to bully her. From the clothes Jessica wore, to the way she played kickball, even to the homework Jessica turned in.
If that was not enough for Jessica, she also worried about other things. For example, Jessica worried if her socks matched, if she could find her barrettes, and even worried about her knobby knees. For a first grader, Jessica had a lot to worry about.
Her teacher, Mr. Martin, had advised his class to "just ignore" the bullies. But Jessica didn't think she could do that. So, after telling her mom about the problem with Brenda, Jessica came up with a plan.
The next day, when Brenda began her bulling ways, Jessica put her plan into action. Brenda was stunned, embarrassed, and finally quiet.
Can you imagine what Jessica's plan was? Could your child learn from Jessica? If your child has been bullied, or knows a child who is being bullied, the strategy Jessica used just may be helpful. This is a book that should be kept in all elementary classes, and read out-loud regularly. Empowering children starts early, and Jessica's story and her solution are about empowering children.
The colorful illustrations are humorous and on target for the elementary grades. If given the opportunity, children in grades 1st through 4th will enjoy picking this book up and reading it by themselves.
BIBLIO: 2009, Simon & Schuster Books For Young Readers, Ages 5 to 9, $16.99
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 978-0-689-86187-1
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 5/09
Bee-Wigged
By Cece Bell
Jerry Bee was a bee, but not just any bee. He was the most enormous bee that anyone had seen and everyone was afraid of being stung. Jerry tried everything he could think of be friendly; when he said hello, people ran; when he answered the phone with his, “bzzzzzzzzzzzz”, people would know he was a bee; he even tried to give away free honey, and people were afraid of him.
Then one day, Jerry found a wig lying on a sidewalk. Just maybe that would be his answer. He put it on his head, and the first person to see the “new Jerry”, was a school bus driver. She wanted him to get to school immediately because he was late!
So far, Jerry’s new identity was working. At the school, Jerry was hoping to make new friends, and the first classroom he entered he met Miss Swann, the teacher. She and all the students just thought Jerry was wonderful – helpful, funny, artistic, generous, and even a great speller. Jerry was so happy at school, he decided to go every day.
Eventually, he was nominated for a great honor that could very well have become his demise. What a surprise for Jerry and his wig! Did all the friends he had made run away, or did everyone learn a lesson of friendship?
The colorful illustrations make the story of Jerry Bee and his new friends. Ages for this book would be better for lower elementary, as they need to learn early the lesson of diversity in friendship and being themselves.
BIBLIO: 2008, Candlewick Press, Ages 5 to 9, $16.99
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 978-0-7636-3614-2
REVIEWED FOR: Children's Literature, Online Version, 5-6-09
Jerry Bee was a bee, but not just any bee. He was the most enormous bee that anyone had seen and everyone was afraid of being stung. Jerry tried everything he could think of be friendly; when he said hello, people ran; when he answered the phone with his, “bzzzzzzzzzzzz”, people would know he was a bee; he even tried to give away free honey, and people were afraid of him.
Then one day, Jerry found a wig lying on a sidewalk. Just maybe that would be his answer. He put it on his head, and the first person to see the “new Jerry”, was a school bus driver. She wanted him to get to school immediately because he was late!
So far, Jerry’s new identity was working. At the school, Jerry was hoping to make new friends, and the first classroom he entered he met Miss Swann, the teacher. She and all the students just thought Jerry was wonderful – helpful, funny, artistic, generous, and even a great speller. Jerry was so happy at school, he decided to go every day.
Eventually, he was nominated for a great honor that could very well have become his demise. What a surprise for Jerry and his wig! Did all the friends he had made run away, or did everyone learn a lesson of friendship?
The colorful illustrations make the story of Jerry Bee and his new friends. Ages for this book would be better for lower elementary, as they need to learn early the lesson of diversity in friendship and being themselves.
BIBLIO: 2008, Candlewick Press, Ages 5 to 9, $16.99
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 978-0-7636-3614-2
REVIEWED FOR: Children's Literature, Online Version, 5-6-09
Thursday, May 7, 2009
My Teacher Dances on the Desk
Eugene Gagliano
Illustrations by Tatjana Mai-Wyss
This entertaining book of poetry is targeted at elementary children, as it should be. The prose is quick, sometimes repetitive, and humorous. Most of the poetry is written from a non-gender point of view, allowing any student to easily identify with the humor. Topics included are the first day of school, wanting to see the nurse, stinky sneakers, a boa constrictor, bubble-gum, and more fun subjects. Each poem should appeal to the kindergarten through second grade ages, and would be a great bedtime read. The title poem, My Teacher Dances on the Desk, is the final poem and reinforces the fun and affection an elementary student hopes for. The illustrations are black ink and cartoonish, that should appeal to small children. This poetry book would be a good inclusion in kindergarten classes.
BIBLIO: 2009, Sleeping Bear Press, Ages 5 to 9, $6.95
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Poetry Book
ISBN: 978-1-58536-446-6
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 4/09
Illustrations by Tatjana Mai-Wyss
This entertaining book of poetry is targeted at elementary children, as it should be. The prose is quick, sometimes repetitive, and humorous. Most of the poetry is written from a non-gender point of view, allowing any student to easily identify with the humor. Topics included are the first day of school, wanting to see the nurse, stinky sneakers, a boa constrictor, bubble-gum, and more fun subjects. Each poem should appeal to the kindergarten through second grade ages, and would be a great bedtime read. The title poem, My Teacher Dances on the Desk, is the final poem and reinforces the fun and affection an elementary student hopes for. The illustrations are black ink and cartoonish, that should appeal to small children. This poetry book would be a good inclusion in kindergarten classes.
BIBLIO: 2009, Sleeping Bear Press, Ages 5 to 9, $6.95
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Poetry Book
ISBN: 978-1-58536-446-6
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 4/09
Mrs. McGee’s Coconut
Allia Zobel Nolan
Illustrations by Peter Cottrill
Mrs. McGee likes to do things her own way. After purchasing the big, brown, hairy coconut, she is offered help to open it, but no, she knows she can do it herself. That is when the adventure for Mrs. McGee and her coconut begins. The rhyming text and full-page color illustrations set the scene for every next event. This is not a book to be read quietly, the action phrases, and the bolded words invite inspiring reading. Small children will enjoy the quick, comical adventures of Mrs. McGee and her uncooperative coconut. In the end though, the coconut does not win, and Mrs. McGee may begin a new adventure. This would be an excellent addition to kindergarten through first, and possibly second grade classes. It should be read with great expression.
BIBLIO: 2009, Tiger Tales, Ages 4 to 8, $6.95
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Rhyming Picture Book
ISBN: 978-1-58925-414-5
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 4/09
Illustrations by Peter Cottrill
Mrs. McGee likes to do things her own way. After purchasing the big, brown, hairy coconut, she is offered help to open it, but no, she knows she can do it herself. That is when the adventure for Mrs. McGee and her coconut begins. The rhyming text and full-page color illustrations set the scene for every next event. This is not a book to be read quietly, the action phrases, and the bolded words invite inspiring reading. Small children will enjoy the quick, comical adventures of Mrs. McGee and her uncooperative coconut. In the end though, the coconut does not win, and Mrs. McGee may begin a new adventure. This would be an excellent addition to kindergarten through first, and possibly second grade classes. It should be read with great expression.
BIBLIO: 2009, Tiger Tales, Ages 4 to 8, $6.95
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Rhyming Picture Book
ISBN: 978-1-58925-414-5
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 4/09
Uncle Phil’s Diner
Helena Clare Pittman
Illustrations by Helena Clare Pittman
“Think warm, Ruthie,” Pappa tells her on their journey to Uncle Phil’s Diner, braving the bitter cold of an early morning snow. Their journey to Uncle Phil‘s Diner serves as a backdrop to a series of snapshots from Ruthie’s memories.
Ruthie begins by remembering the hot summer day she spent helping her Aunt Ida preserve blueberries. “Think warm, Ruthie.” Again Pappa reminds her. Ruthie and her Pappa play games along the way to keep themselves warm.
Just thinking of the pancake breakfast that awaits them, Ruthie and her Pappa continue on their cold morning journey. At one point Pappa speaks of the cold, and Ruthie has the opportunity to remind him to “Just think warm.”
Ruthie and her Pappa finally reach Uncle Phil’s Diner and are rewarded with the delicious sights and smells of Uncle Phil’s cooking. The word imagery is rich, from ‘blue morning shadows’, ‘to white mountains line the sidewalk.‘ Pittman has included a copy of Uncle Phil’s Blueberry Pancakes recipe, just in case the reader can’t resist.
The books is laid out like a photo album, complete with corner-keepers for the illustrations. The story is easy to read, and the illustrations are beautifully drawn.
BIBLIO: 1998, Lerner Publications, Ages 7 to 10, $14.95
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 1575050838
REVIEWED FOR: Christian Library Journal, Winter 2000, Print Version
©2010
Reprinted from Christian Library Journal, with permission
Illustrations by Helena Clare Pittman
“Think warm, Ruthie,” Pappa tells her on their journey to Uncle Phil’s Diner, braving the bitter cold of an early morning snow. Their journey to Uncle Phil‘s Diner serves as a backdrop to a series of snapshots from Ruthie’s memories.
Ruthie begins by remembering the hot summer day she spent helping her Aunt Ida preserve blueberries. “Think warm, Ruthie.” Again Pappa reminds her. Ruthie and her Pappa play games along the way to keep themselves warm.
Just thinking of the pancake breakfast that awaits them, Ruthie and her Pappa continue on their cold morning journey. At one point Pappa speaks of the cold, and Ruthie has the opportunity to remind him to “Just think warm.”
Ruthie and her Pappa finally reach Uncle Phil’s Diner and are rewarded with the delicious sights and smells of Uncle Phil’s cooking. The word imagery is rich, from ‘blue morning shadows’, ‘to white mountains line the sidewalk.‘ Pittman has included a copy of Uncle Phil’s Blueberry Pancakes recipe, just in case the reader can’t resist.
The books is laid out like a photo album, complete with corner-keepers for the illustrations. The story is easy to read, and the illustrations are beautifully drawn.
BIBLIO: 1998, Lerner Publications, Ages 7 to 10, $14.95
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 1575050838
REVIEWED FOR: Christian Library Journal, Winter 2000, Print Version
©2010
Reprinted from Christian Library Journal, with permission
The Lost Lamb
Melody Carlson
Illustrated by Steve Bjorkman
The shepherd looks out over his flock, and notices the setting of the sun. He leads his flock home, while constantly encouraging his flock to not tarry. There are one hundred sheep, and he knows all of their names, “from lamb to ewe.” The names given to the lambs are whimsical, and yet familiar with the children of yesterday, today, and tomorrow.
As he finishes counting he realizes that one of his lambs is missing. Making sure the other ninety-nine are safely tucked in at the farm, the shepherd leaves to search for the missing lamb. Great distances he travels in search of his lost lamb, calling out the lamb’s name. finally, the lamb is found, and the shepherd rejoices. He comforts the lamb, and carries him home. The shepherd admits to being tired from his search, but reassures the lamb of his joy in finding the lost one. Once back at the farm, the shepherd involves all the sheep in a celebration of the lost sheep that was found.
The Lost Lamb is a charming and delightful book by Melody Carlson, and reads like a worship song. Your heart will sing, your spirit will soar, and your faith will be refreshed. The music of the words mixed with the frivolity of the watercolor illustrations will be appreciated and enjoyed by all ages. The durability of the library binding adds to the book’s appeal.
BIBLIO: 1999, Crossway Books, Ages 7 to 10, $10.99
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 1581340729
REVIEWED FOR: Christian Library Journal, Winter 2000, Print Version
Illustrated by Steve Bjorkman
The shepherd looks out over his flock, and notices the setting of the sun. He leads his flock home, while constantly encouraging his flock to not tarry. There are one hundred sheep, and he knows all of their names, “from lamb to ewe.” The names given to the lambs are whimsical, and yet familiar with the children of yesterday, today, and tomorrow.
As he finishes counting he realizes that one of his lambs is missing. Making sure the other ninety-nine are safely tucked in at the farm, the shepherd leaves to search for the missing lamb. Great distances he travels in search of his lost lamb, calling out the lamb’s name. finally, the lamb is found, and the shepherd rejoices. He comforts the lamb, and carries him home. The shepherd admits to being tired from his search, but reassures the lamb of his joy in finding the lost one. Once back at the farm, the shepherd involves all the sheep in a celebration of the lost sheep that was found.
The Lost Lamb is a charming and delightful book by Melody Carlson, and reads like a worship song. Your heart will sing, your spirit will soar, and your faith will be refreshed. The music of the words mixed with the frivolity of the watercolor illustrations will be appreciated and enjoyed by all ages. The durability of the library binding adds to the book’s appeal.
BIBLIO: 1999, Crossway Books, Ages 7 to 10, $10.99
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 1581340729
REVIEWED FOR: Christian Library Journal, Winter 2000, Print Version
Streets of Gold
Rosemary Wells
Illustrated by Dan Andreasen
Twelve year old Mary Antin, along with her family, traveled from Russia hoping to being a better life in the United States. The year was 1894, and the Antins were Russian Jews who had escaped the hardships of religious persecution.
As a young child, Mary wrote a long letter to relative left behind in Russia, and shared details of their new life - the success, the struggles, the joys and the tears. Years later, Mary enlarged on that first long letter to write a book of her experience as a young Russian girl, living under the hardships imposed upon Jews in Russia, to a young immigrant building a life in Boston.
Her book, The Promised Land, serves as the basis for author Rosemary Wells’ book, Streets of Gold. Ms. Wells has taken Mary’s story and adapted it into a shorter version for today’s young readers. Streets of Gold is presented in an episode format, so each page represents snippets from Mary’s young life.
At the same time, words from Mary’s original book are included on each page so readers have the opportunity to read Ms. Wells’ adaptation while also reading Mary’s prose.
The illustrations, by Dan Andreasen, are warm and engaging and provide a pictorial journal of Mary’s life. Streets of Gold is a must read for anyone who wants to understand religious persecution and immigration through a child’s eyes.
BIBLIO: 1998, Scholastic, Ages 7 to 10, $16.95
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 0590374877
REVIEWED FOR: Christian Library Journal, Fall 2000, Print Version
Illustrated by Dan Andreasen
Twelve year old Mary Antin, along with her family, traveled from Russia hoping to being a better life in the United States. The year was 1894, and the Antins were Russian Jews who had escaped the hardships of religious persecution.
As a young child, Mary wrote a long letter to relative left behind in Russia, and shared details of their new life - the success, the struggles, the joys and the tears. Years later, Mary enlarged on that first long letter to write a book of her experience as a young Russian girl, living under the hardships imposed upon Jews in Russia, to a young immigrant building a life in Boston.
Her book, The Promised Land, serves as the basis for author Rosemary Wells’ book, Streets of Gold. Ms. Wells has taken Mary’s story and adapted it into a shorter version for today’s young readers. Streets of Gold is presented in an episode format, so each page represents snippets from Mary’s young life.
At the same time, words from Mary’s original book are included on each page so readers have the opportunity to read Ms. Wells’ adaptation while also reading Mary’s prose.
The illustrations, by Dan Andreasen, are warm and engaging and provide a pictorial journal of Mary’s life. Streets of Gold is a must read for anyone who wants to understand religious persecution and immigration through a child’s eyes.
BIBLIO: 1998, Scholastic, Ages 7 to 10, $16.95
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 0590374877
REVIEWED FOR: Christian Library Journal, Fall 2000, Print Version
Saturday, April 25, 2009
CRYSTAL LIES
Melody Carlson
Cover Design by John Hamilton
Geoffrey, husband, has a high-profile job that is the perfect culmination of a career that driven him from childhood; his home is the reflection of his drive and the expectations of his family. Glennis is the perfect wife that is the reflection of her husband’s demanding career; her home is nothing of her life her or her tastes.
Seemingly without notice, their world starts to fall apart. Their son, Jacob, becomes involved in drugs – and not just any drug but crystal meth, “one of the most addictive substances known to man.” Glennis’ only solution is to leave the marriage to fight for her son’s survival. Over the months she realizes that healing is meant not just for Jacob but for her also.
The children – Sarah and Jacob – are exactly what Geoffrey wants and wouldn’t tolerate anything less. Sarah fortunately grew into a successful young woman. Jacob had drug problems from high school on.
The characters are well developed, especially between Glennis and Jacob. The reader recognizes that the conflict between Jacob and his father is a source of pain between them, while Glennis is desperate to save Jacob. Dialogue between all flows naturally and timely; the story takes place in the current time.
This is an inspirational fiction written with sensitive and reality. As Glennis grows through the story, the reader realizes that “but by grace” is a possibility. The author, Melody Carlson, has done an excellent job bringing the story through sensitivity and humor. An excellent read.
BIBLIO: 2005, WaterBrook Press, Ages 14 to 18, $12.99
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Chapter Book, YA, Adult
ISBN: 1578568404
REVIEWED FOR: Christian Library Journal
RATING: *5
Cover Design by John Hamilton
Geoffrey, husband, has a high-profile job that is the perfect culmination of a career that driven him from childhood; his home is the reflection of his drive and the expectations of his family. Glennis is the perfect wife that is the reflection of her husband’s demanding career; her home is nothing of her life her or her tastes.
Seemingly without notice, their world starts to fall apart. Their son, Jacob, becomes involved in drugs – and not just any drug but crystal meth, “one of the most addictive substances known to man.” Glennis’ only solution is to leave the marriage to fight for her son’s survival. Over the months she realizes that healing is meant not just for Jacob but for her also.
The children – Sarah and Jacob – are exactly what Geoffrey wants and wouldn’t tolerate anything less. Sarah fortunately grew into a successful young woman. Jacob had drug problems from high school on.
The characters are well developed, especially between Glennis and Jacob. The reader recognizes that the conflict between Jacob and his father is a source of pain between them, while Glennis is desperate to save Jacob. Dialogue between all flows naturally and timely; the story takes place in the current time.
This is an inspirational fiction written with sensitive and reality. As Glennis grows through the story, the reader realizes that “but by grace” is a possibility. The author, Melody Carlson, has done an excellent job bringing the story through sensitivity and humor. An excellent read.
BIBLIO: 2005, WaterBrook Press, Ages 14 to 18, $12.99
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Chapter Book, YA, Adult
ISBN: 1578568404
REVIEWED FOR: Christian Library Journal
RATING: *5
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