Simon Cheshire
Illustrated by R. W. Alley
In The Treasure of Dead Man’s Lane, Saxby Smart requires the help of his friend George “Muddy” Whitehouse, and Isobel “Izzy” Moustique to solve the mystery of the horror house at 13 Deadman’s Lane. The house had been vacant for many years, but had been recently purchased by the parents of a school friend, Jack Wilson. During the renovations a secret scroll was found that claimed a hidden treasure was somewhere in the building. A great deal of history was involved from World War II to Napoleon Bonaparte in solving the mystery of the scroll. The prior owner of the house, Silas Middlewich, built the house in 1837, and appeared to have a reputation of being a very nasty man. In order to solve the mystery, Saxby and his friends had to follow many trails before answers were found. When the truth was discovered, the house Jack’s parent’s bought known as the horror house, became a true historical find. Two other Case Files are included in the book, The Tomb of Death and The Fangs of the Dragon. Each Case File is just as mystifying as the Treasure of Dead Man’s Lane. It should be noted that Saxby Smart is a student and his office is in a tool shed.
In Saxby’s investigations, he includes the reader, as his ‘side-kick’, asking questions throughout creating a rather interactive read. This book was difficult to put down, even for the reviewer to take notes. Mr. Cheshire, the author, has found a primary character and cohorts that are ageless within the middle-grade readers. The black illustrations are right on target for the characters and more so for the pages from Saxby’s notebooks. We can only hope that Cheshire has a third book on the way. In the meantime, grab this and the first book for any bookshelves you may have.
BIBLIO: 2010, Roaring Brook Press, Ages 9 - 12, $15.99.
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Middle-Grade Fiction
ISBN: 978-1-59643-475-2
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 7/8/10
Saturday, July 10, 2010
Twinkle, Star of the Week
Joan Holub
Illustrated by Paul Nicholls
The teacher, Ms. Sun, will give each of her students an opportunity to be a superstar, to sit in the Milky Way chair during Sharing Time. Of the nine students, the brightest, Twinkle, knew she wanted to sing her song. The others all had things they would share for their special time. Dazzle went first – three planets circled around her. The class counted eight planets circling Ms. Sun. When Blaze was a superstar he brought asteroid cookies and explained asteroids are mostly rock. Soon it was Shimmer’s time and she shared a shape game of stars called Constellation Tag. Twinkle thought about mentioning planet tutus, but decided against it. Finally, since she was the brightest star, she decided to do something no one else had done. Surely, you may have seen her star up in the sky and thought about it now and then?
The publisher note considers this book as a low-key introduction to the stars, planets, and other objects of the Universe. Considering the target age of the book, readers of the 6 – 8 age groups will be unnecessarily deprived of additional science. Why were the three planets around Dazzle not identified? It would only have been one more sentence. If the class counted eight planets circling Ms. Sun, why not identify those planets. The Constellation Tag game clearly shows the Big Dipper yet it does not identify it. Finally, Twinkle mentions planet tutus – we should all look that one up. On a scale of one to ten, this book receives a one. Doing a halfway job in explaining science is not the correct way to show a child they are special; do not bother putting this one on your shelves.
BIBLIO: 2010, Albert Whitman & Company, Ages 6 - 8, $16.99.
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 978-0-8075-8131-5
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 7/8/10
Illustrated by Paul Nicholls
The teacher, Ms. Sun, will give each of her students an opportunity to be a superstar, to sit in the Milky Way chair during Sharing Time. Of the nine students, the brightest, Twinkle, knew she wanted to sing her song. The others all had things they would share for their special time. Dazzle went first – three planets circled around her. The class counted eight planets circling Ms. Sun. When Blaze was a superstar he brought asteroid cookies and explained asteroids are mostly rock. Soon it was Shimmer’s time and she shared a shape game of stars called Constellation Tag. Twinkle thought about mentioning planet tutus, but decided against it. Finally, since she was the brightest star, she decided to do something no one else had done. Surely, you may have seen her star up in the sky and thought about it now and then?
The publisher note considers this book as a low-key introduction to the stars, planets, and other objects of the Universe. Considering the target age of the book, readers of the 6 – 8 age groups will be unnecessarily deprived of additional science. Why were the three planets around Dazzle not identified? It would only have been one more sentence. If the class counted eight planets circling Ms. Sun, why not identify those planets. The Constellation Tag game clearly shows the Big Dipper yet it does not identify it. Finally, Twinkle mentions planet tutus – we should all look that one up. On a scale of one to ten, this book receives a one. Doing a halfway job in explaining science is not the correct way to show a child they are special; do not bother putting this one on your shelves.
BIBLIO: 2010, Albert Whitman & Company, Ages 6 - 8, $16.99.
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 978-0-8075-8131-5
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 7/8/10
Fire Drill
Paul DuBois Jacobs and Jennifer Swender
Illustrated by Huy Voun Lee
In this classroom, young students are learning many lessons - from getting along with each other, putting puzzles together, painting, and singing. Their most important lesson though is learning to listen to their teacher. Suddenly, a loud bell sounds, and the children must be quiet to find out what they should do. A poster on the wall, FIRE DRILL RULES, suddenly becomes the focus. It is time for the children to follow the rules, and wait patiently for their teacher to say, “Okay!” Then it is back to fun.
This is a very age appropriate book that teaches young children the importance of fire drills, and listening to their teachers. Illustrations are bright and colorful, easily engaging children’s eyes and interest. Also, the clever illustrations are replete with an array of patterns. The text is simple and easy for children to understand and absorb. This is a wonderful book every elementary class should start with, and refer to during the school months.
BIBLIO: 2010, Henry Holt and Co., Ages 4 - 7, $15.99.
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book / Rhyming Text
ISBN: 978-0-8050-8953-0
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 7/8/10
Illustrated by Huy Voun Lee
In this classroom, young students are learning many lessons - from getting along with each other, putting puzzles together, painting, and singing. Their most important lesson though is learning to listen to their teacher. Suddenly, a loud bell sounds, and the children must be quiet to find out what they should do. A poster on the wall, FIRE DRILL RULES, suddenly becomes the focus. It is time for the children to follow the rules, and wait patiently for their teacher to say, “Okay!” Then it is back to fun.
This is a very age appropriate book that teaches young children the importance of fire drills, and listening to their teachers. Illustrations are bright and colorful, easily engaging children’s eyes and interest. Also, the clever illustrations are replete with an array of patterns. The text is simple and easy for children to understand and absorb. This is a wonderful book every elementary class should start with, and refer to during the school months.
BIBLIO: 2010, Henry Holt and Co., Ages 4 - 7, $15.99.
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book / Rhyming Text
ISBN: 978-0-8050-8953-0
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 7/8/10
Cat Diaries – Secret Writings of the MEOW Society
Betsy Byars
Betsy Duffey
Laurie Myers
Illustrated by Erik Brooks
Cat Diaries – Secret Writings … who knew? - The independent creatures we stroke, feed, and hope will eventually return home, keep secret journals and belong to the MEOW Society! Cats never forget our motto – MEOW, Memories Expressed in Our Writing. It was the third full moon of the year – where is your cat? Mice ran without fear, alleys and streets were quiet. The MEOW Society was coming to order somewhere … everywhere. So many stories to share – Rama, the Gypsy Cat, 1900 Kansas – cats have two purrs. The first purr is for the public, and the second purr is for your special person. Evidently, that person can change depending on the weather. The Library Cat found her home by chance. She was born outside the Library and by chance followed some children inside – where she just happened to become useful. Now she belongs in the Library – that’s her home and her life. Poor Whiskers, back in 1943, over in South Carolina. He made the mistake of winding up in the wrong hands. Fortunately, it all worked out for him, but he doesn’t want to do anymore parachute rides anytime soon. There are so many stories that were read, but even more that were not because of time. Next year we will meet again, with more stories, and more members.
Such a delicious thought – one night a year our cats get together and read their journals to each other. What a concept! Having had a cat since I was six years old, it gives me pause to consider what they do when we sleep. However, since the technological age has not yet reached the feline population, I do believe we have some degree of safety. Hence, my comments to the authors, Cat Diaries – Secret Writings Of the MEOW Society, is a must read for anyone who loves cats, regardless of age. Although children might enjoy it over a longer period of time, this reviewer is enchanted with the concept of cats writing journals. Children should keep up with the feline population in the journal writing, huh? It is a very enjoyable read, put it on your library shelf and pull it out often. Mr. Brooks' black ink illustrations are animated and on target. My favorite is page 50.
BIBLIO: 2010, Henry Holt and Company, Ages 7 - 10, $15.99.
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Chapter Book
ISBN: 978-0-8050-8717-8
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 7/8/10
Betsy Duffey
Laurie Myers
Illustrated by Erik Brooks
Cat Diaries – Secret Writings … who knew? - The independent creatures we stroke, feed, and hope will eventually return home, keep secret journals and belong to the MEOW Society! Cats never forget our motto – MEOW, Memories Expressed in Our Writing. It was the third full moon of the year – where is your cat? Mice ran without fear, alleys and streets were quiet. The MEOW Society was coming to order somewhere … everywhere. So many stories to share – Rama, the Gypsy Cat, 1900 Kansas – cats have two purrs. The first purr is for the public, and the second purr is for your special person. Evidently, that person can change depending on the weather. The Library Cat found her home by chance. She was born outside the Library and by chance followed some children inside – where she just happened to become useful. Now she belongs in the Library – that’s her home and her life. Poor Whiskers, back in 1943, over in South Carolina. He made the mistake of winding up in the wrong hands. Fortunately, it all worked out for him, but he doesn’t want to do anymore parachute rides anytime soon. There are so many stories that were read, but even more that were not because of time. Next year we will meet again, with more stories, and more members.
Such a delicious thought – one night a year our cats get together and read their journals to each other. What a concept! Having had a cat since I was six years old, it gives me pause to consider what they do when we sleep. However, since the technological age has not yet reached the feline population, I do believe we have some degree of safety. Hence, my comments to the authors, Cat Diaries – Secret Writings Of the MEOW Society, is a must read for anyone who loves cats, regardless of age. Although children might enjoy it over a longer period of time, this reviewer is enchanted with the concept of cats writing journals. Children should keep up with the feline population in the journal writing, huh? It is a very enjoyable read, put it on your library shelf and pull it out often. Mr. Brooks' black ink illustrations are animated and on target. My favorite is page 50.
BIBLIO: 2010, Henry Holt and Company, Ages 7 - 10, $15.99.
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Chapter Book
ISBN: 978-0-8050-8717-8
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 7/8/10
Annie Hoot and the Knitting Extravaganza
Holly Clifton-Brown
Annie Hoot loved to knit, any time of day or night. She would knit anything as long as she had the yarn. Too bad her friends did not appreciate the things she knitted for them. She decided to leave her woods and finds friends who would appreciate her knitted gifts. To do that, she must knit one more time in her wooded home. To her friend’s surprise, Annie Hoot left in a knitted hot air balloon and off she went. She had many adventures as she knitted her away across the world. She started in the rain forest, and sailed across the sea. Still no one was happy with her knitting. The elephants, a giraffe, polar bears, walrus’, and penguins – so many she had shared her knitting with. Finally Annie Hoot had run out of yarn and she was feeling homesick. But without yarn how could she get home?
This is a sweet picture book about friendship and sharing. Annie Hoot had a gift of knitting and all she wanted to do was share, with everybody. The concept of sharing with their friends is something all children should understand. The author/illustrator combined a pleasing text with illustrations that are colorful and whimsical, sure to catch a young reader’s attention.
BIBLIO: 2010, Andersen Press USA. Ages 4 - 8, $16.95.
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 978-0-7613-6444-3
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 7/8/10
Annie Hoot loved to knit, any time of day or night. She would knit anything as long as she had the yarn. Too bad her friends did not appreciate the things she knitted for them. She decided to leave her woods and finds friends who would appreciate her knitted gifts. To do that, she must knit one more time in her wooded home. To her friend’s surprise, Annie Hoot left in a knitted hot air balloon and off she went. She had many adventures as she knitted her away across the world. She started in the rain forest, and sailed across the sea. Still no one was happy with her knitting. The elephants, a giraffe, polar bears, walrus’, and penguins – so many she had shared her knitting with. Finally Annie Hoot had run out of yarn and she was feeling homesick. But without yarn how could she get home?
This is a sweet picture book about friendship and sharing. Annie Hoot had a gift of knitting and all she wanted to do was share, with everybody. The concept of sharing with their friends is something all children should understand. The author/illustrator combined a pleasing text with illustrations that are colorful and whimsical, sure to catch a young reader’s attention.
BIBLIO: 2010, Andersen Press USA. Ages 4 - 8, $16.95.
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 978-0-7613-6444-3
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 7/8/10
Sunday, May 30, 2010
Kitten’s Spring
Eugenie Fernandes
The sun is shining on the farm and kitten has gone exploring. There is much to see and hear this morning. First kitten listens to the song of a hummingbird, and the buzz of a bee. As kitten goes along, there is a frog, and a bird leaving her nest. Yet, there is so much more to see. Kitten plays chase with the dog and hears the chicken clucking with her chick. The farm is full of things to see and hear! There are still ducks, cows, pigs, and so much more for kitten to see and hear.
The illustrations are very colorful, almost appearing to be three-dimensional. Each page is full of things to see, despite the text. Ms. Fernandes has done an excellent job creating a book that will appeal to young readers beyond just the initial story line. Young readers will find much to look for on the pages of this very colorful fun read.
BIBLIO: 2010, Kids Can Press, Ages 1 - 4, $14.95.
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book / Rhyming
ISBN: 978-1-55453-340-4
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 5/24/10
The sun is shining on the farm and kitten has gone exploring. There is much to see and hear this morning. First kitten listens to the song of a hummingbird, and the buzz of a bee. As kitten goes along, there is a frog, and a bird leaving her nest. Yet, there is so much more to see. Kitten plays chase with the dog and hears the chicken clucking with her chick. The farm is full of things to see and hear! There are still ducks, cows, pigs, and so much more for kitten to see and hear.
The illustrations are very colorful, almost appearing to be three-dimensional. Each page is full of things to see, despite the text. Ms. Fernandes has done an excellent job creating a book that will appeal to young readers beyond just the initial story line. Young readers will find much to look for on the pages of this very colorful fun read.
BIBLIO: 2010, Kids Can Press, Ages 1 - 4, $14.95.
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book / Rhyming
ISBN: 978-1-55453-340-4
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 5/24/10
Oh No! Time to Go! Book of Goodbyes
Rebecca Doughty
Everyone has their own way to say goodbye. From toodle-oo, g’bye, to later gator! The concept of goodbye can be difficult for young children to understand. Auntie Lou wants to have a chat and drink tea, and then it’s time for goodbye. Uncle Ed, with his southern drawl, says g’bye y’all. When Granny comes for a visit, there are hugs and kisses, but there is always a goodbye. Other good-byes could be just a handshake, or a baby who says goo-goo. Dogs seem to have it easier than anyone else does – a simple grrr sends the other one on their way. There is a goodbye that is harder for a young child to deal with. Yet, along with good-byes there are also hellos.
This rhyming book of meeting, visiting, and saying goodbye will help young readers understand the concept of saying goodbye. The illustrations are in primary colors, and are drawn to appeal to the young readers. The book is a reminder to the readers and to those who read to them, that good-byes are a part of life.
BIBLIO: 2009, Schwartz & Wade Books, Ages 3 - 7, $15.99.
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Juvenile Fiction / Rhyming
ISBN: 978-0-375-84981-7
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 5/24/10
Everyone has their own way to say goodbye. From toodle-oo, g’bye, to later gator! The concept of goodbye can be difficult for young children to understand. Auntie Lou wants to have a chat and drink tea, and then it’s time for goodbye. Uncle Ed, with his southern drawl, says g’bye y’all. When Granny comes for a visit, there are hugs and kisses, but there is always a goodbye. Other good-byes could be just a handshake, or a baby who says goo-goo. Dogs seem to have it easier than anyone else does – a simple grrr sends the other one on their way. There is a goodbye that is harder for a young child to deal with. Yet, along with good-byes there are also hellos.
This rhyming book of meeting, visiting, and saying goodbye will help young readers understand the concept of saying goodbye. The illustrations are in primary colors, and are drawn to appeal to the young readers. The book is a reminder to the readers and to those who read to them, that good-byes are a part of life.
BIBLIO: 2009, Schwartz & Wade Books, Ages 3 - 7, $15.99.
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Juvenile Fiction / Rhyming
ISBN: 978-0-375-84981-7
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 5/24/10
A Mountain Alphabet
Margriet Ruurs
Illustrated by Andrew Kiss
This is an alphabet book that will not go out of style! The alphabet is depicted in the western mountain region of North America where the letter “A” starts at a view of an avalanche. “B” shows a bear in the boreal forest. Elks represent the letter “E” shown through evergreens. A laughing loon on a lake is great for the “L”. Following is massive mountains, nocturnal animals, an otter, a provincial park, and a quilled creature. The “R” for raccoons, “S” for salmons, and “Z” for a zigzagging trail. The last two pages give further descriptions of the illustrations that were used for the alphabets, and the very last page asks readers to find hidden items used in the illustrations.
This book is one that children and adults will want to come back to over and over again. Not only is it beautifully illustrated, which engages the readers eye, there is so much more to the book than just the alphabet. The illustrations draw the reader in to find all the elements included, bighorns, cougars, grizzly bear, a wide variety of flowers, picnic tables, jewelry – and so much more. Each illustration is a challenge for the readers to return and find more on each return.
BIBLIO: 2009, Tundra Books, Ages 6 and up, $7.95.
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Juvenile Nonfiction
ISBN: 978-0-88776-940-5
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 5/24/10
Illustrated by Andrew Kiss
This is an alphabet book that will not go out of style! The alphabet is depicted in the western mountain region of North America where the letter “A” starts at a view of an avalanche. “B” shows a bear in the boreal forest. Elks represent the letter “E” shown through evergreens. A laughing loon on a lake is great for the “L”. Following is massive mountains, nocturnal animals, an otter, a provincial park, and a quilled creature. The “R” for raccoons, “S” for salmons, and “Z” for a zigzagging trail. The last two pages give further descriptions of the illustrations that were used for the alphabets, and the very last page asks readers to find hidden items used in the illustrations.
This book is one that children and adults will want to come back to over and over again. Not only is it beautifully illustrated, which engages the readers eye, there is so much more to the book than just the alphabet. The illustrations draw the reader in to find all the elements included, bighorns, cougars, grizzly bear, a wide variety of flowers, picnic tables, jewelry – and so much more. Each illustration is a challenge for the readers to return and find more on each return.
BIBLIO: 2009, Tundra Books, Ages 6 and up, $7.95.
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Juvenile Nonfiction
ISBN: 978-0-88776-940-5
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 5/24/10
Eliot Jones, Midnight Superhero
Annie Cottringer
Illustrated by Alex T. Smith
By day, Eliot Jones is a quiet child. He reads his books and takes care of his goldfish. However, when midnight strikes, Eliot Jones becomes a superhero! The adventures he has after midnight call on his many skills. He hangs from a helicopter to return missing teddy bears. As an expert lion tamer, he is able to return lions that have escaped from the local zoo. His skill as a champion swimmer helps save a ship destined to crash on rocks and sailors from the sea. Eliot Jones is a great help with the Queen in returning her jewels, using his skill as an excellent sleuth. From there, his adventures become more dangerous, calling on courage and ingenuity. It is no question that when his superhero tasks are complete, Eliot Jones is tired and quiet during the day.
The typeset and colorful illustrations are creative and add to the whimsy of the story. This book is a fun read for the age group and adds a little mystery to the activities of young Eliot Jones after midnight.
BIBLIO: 2009, Tiger Tales, Ages 3 – 7, $7.95.
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 978-1-58925-416-9
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 5/24/10
Illustrated by Alex T. Smith
By day, Eliot Jones is a quiet child. He reads his books and takes care of his goldfish. However, when midnight strikes, Eliot Jones becomes a superhero! The adventures he has after midnight call on his many skills. He hangs from a helicopter to return missing teddy bears. As an expert lion tamer, he is able to return lions that have escaped from the local zoo. His skill as a champion swimmer helps save a ship destined to crash on rocks and sailors from the sea. Eliot Jones is a great help with the Queen in returning her jewels, using his skill as an excellent sleuth. From there, his adventures become more dangerous, calling on courage and ingenuity. It is no question that when his superhero tasks are complete, Eliot Jones is tired and quiet during the day.
The typeset and colorful illustrations are creative and add to the whimsy of the story. This book is a fun read for the age group and adds a little mystery to the activities of young Eliot Jones after midnight.
BIBLIO: 2009, Tiger Tales, Ages 3 – 7, $7.95.
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 978-1-58925-416-9
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 5/24/10
The Blues Go Birding Across America
Carol L. Malnor and Sandy F. Fuller
Illustrated by Louise Schroeder
Five birds make up the group: Bing, Lulu, Uno, Eggbert, and Sammi. The five birds were asked to sing in concert on the Fourth of July at the White House Lawn. Their mission is to find a new song to sing at this concert. To do this, the group of five birds decides to go on a road trip to find new sounds for the White House concert. Setting off, the first stop was in Alaska where the Bald Eagle lived. From there the group of five traveled to Hawaii spotting a Black-Footed Albatross. Going east to California, the next bird they found was a Ring-Billed Gull. Still, though, the group had not found sounds they could use for the White House concert. There were more stops coming up, New Mexico and the Rocky Mountain National Park. They did not stay long and continued on to Kansas to hear the song of the Western Meadowlark. Perhaps the fancy whistles they heard could be learned, but the group of five were not done yet. The Turkey Vulture in Texas was next, and there were more birds across America to be seen. Does the group ever find the new sounds they are looking for?
For each bird they came across, Eggbert added his birding tips on each stop, and one of the five in the group includes a notebook. Statistics are included for each bird that is easy to learn. The illustrations are beautifully colored, realistic portrayals of each bird. A Reading Guide, in pdf format, is available online for those who may read this book to multiple children. This is an excellent book to teach young readers about bird watching.
BIBLIO: 2010, Dawn Publications, Ages 5 – 9, $8.95.
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book / Easy to Read Nature
ISBN: 978-1-58469-1259
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 5/24/10
Illustrated by Louise Schroeder
Five birds make up the group: Bing, Lulu, Uno, Eggbert, and Sammi. The five birds were asked to sing in concert on the Fourth of July at the White House Lawn. Their mission is to find a new song to sing at this concert. To do this, the group of five birds decides to go on a road trip to find new sounds for the White House concert. Setting off, the first stop was in Alaska where the Bald Eagle lived. From there the group of five traveled to Hawaii spotting a Black-Footed Albatross. Going east to California, the next bird they found was a Ring-Billed Gull. Still, though, the group had not found sounds they could use for the White House concert. There were more stops coming up, New Mexico and the Rocky Mountain National Park. They did not stay long and continued on to Kansas to hear the song of the Western Meadowlark. Perhaps the fancy whistles they heard could be learned, but the group of five were not done yet. The Turkey Vulture in Texas was next, and there were more birds across America to be seen. Does the group ever find the new sounds they are looking for?
For each bird they came across, Eggbert added his birding tips on each stop, and one of the five in the group includes a notebook. Statistics are included for each bird that is easy to learn. The illustrations are beautifully colored, realistic portrayals of each bird. A Reading Guide, in pdf format, is available online for those who may read this book to multiple children. This is an excellent book to teach young readers about bird watching.
BIBLIO: 2010, Dawn Publications, Ages 5 – 9, $8.95.
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book / Easy to Read Nature
ISBN: 978-1-58469-1259
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 5/24/10
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
What If Everybody Did That?
Ellen Javernick
Illustrated by Colleen M. Madden
Why can’t I feed a bear popcorn at the zoo? Why can’t I race the grocery cart in the store? Why can’t I throw a soda can out of a car window? Those are just some of the things a child is challenged with in this book, What If Everybody Did That? Talking in the library … not hanging up his coat on the hook … to even throwing snowballs … these things could become problems if everyone did what this child did. Children need to learn the consequences of their actions while they are still young. Examples of many behaviors children might find silly are found in this book, with adult responses.
The illustrations are endearing to the text and children should find the story fun. It is a book that children will want to pick up and read just to look at the illustrations and then relate with the text. As a trained Reading Specialist, I would recommend this book for every library, home, public and school.
BIBLIO: 2010, Marshall Cavendish Children’s Books, Ages 3 – 7, $12.99.
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 978-0-7614-5686-5
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 3/31/10
Illustrated by Colleen M. Madden
Why can’t I feed a bear popcorn at the zoo? Why can’t I race the grocery cart in the store? Why can’t I throw a soda can out of a car window? Those are just some of the things a child is challenged with in this book, What If Everybody Did That? Talking in the library … not hanging up his coat on the hook … to even throwing snowballs … these things could become problems if everyone did what this child did. Children need to learn the consequences of their actions while they are still young. Examples of many behaviors children might find silly are found in this book, with adult responses.
The illustrations are endearing to the text and children should find the story fun. It is a book that children will want to pick up and read just to look at the illustrations and then relate with the text. As a trained Reading Specialist, I would recommend this book for every library, home, public and school.
BIBLIO: 2010, Marshall Cavendish Children’s Books, Ages 3 – 7, $12.99.
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 978-0-7614-5686-5
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 3/31/10
My World Series – What Are My Jobs?
Bobbie Kalman
Words to know starts this book of ‘What Are My Jobs?’ Children help parents by helping around the house with a variety of chores. Different families have pets that either need to be brushed, feed, trained, or walked. These are chores that children can easily accomplish. Other chores children can do to help out around the house are cleaning their room, picking up their toys and books. Some children are able to help out with keeping up with their clothes by washing their clothes. Also, children are encouraged to help out with taking dinner … washing vegetables for the salad and pizza. Children are encouraged to Help outside in the fall by raking leaves and shoveling snow during the winter. There are other chores children are encouraged to help out with to help out with around the house that are age appropriate. The photographs included in the book are of several children so readers should feel as if they are a part of the story. The last page of the book includes notes for adults, including teachers, to use as suggestions for job suggestions for children.
The back of this book suggests a Level B reading guide is available, yet, after going to the web site, I could not find anything above Level H. Also, the reading level suggestion is 4-7. As a trained Reading Specialist, I would think the reading level should be more effective for PreK to Kindergarten.
BIBLIO: 2010, Crabtree Publishing, Ages 4 – 7, $5.95.
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 978-0-7787-9478-3
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 3/31/10
Words to know starts this book of ‘What Are My Jobs?’ Children help parents by helping around the house with a variety of chores. Different families have pets that either need to be brushed, feed, trained, or walked. These are chores that children can easily accomplish. Other chores children can do to help out around the house are cleaning their room, picking up their toys and books. Some children are able to help out with keeping up with their clothes by washing their clothes. Also, children are encouraged to help out with taking dinner … washing vegetables for the salad and pizza. Children are encouraged to Help outside in the fall by raking leaves and shoveling snow during the winter. There are other chores children are encouraged to help out with to help out with around the house that are age appropriate. The photographs included in the book are of several children so readers should feel as if they are a part of the story. The last page of the book includes notes for adults, including teachers, to use as suggestions for job suggestions for children.
The back of this book suggests a Level B reading guide is available, yet, after going to the web site, I could not find anything above Level H. Also, the reading level suggestion is 4-7. As a trained Reading Specialist, I would think the reading level should be more effective for PreK to Kindergarten.
BIBLIO: 2010, Crabtree Publishing, Ages 4 – 7, $5.95.
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 978-0-7787-9478-3
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 3/31/10
My World Series – It’s My Birthday
Bobbie Kalman
It’s My Birthday begins with words children should know as the book is read to them. As a child is celebrating their birthday with a party, a cake follows with candles to blow out. There are presents to open, and a funny clown appears. The clown makes balloon animals for the children at the party. The book goes on to pull children into the story by asking when their birthdays are and how old they are. An activity is included encouraging a group of children to use their bodies to make letters relevant to the subject of the book. The photographs included in the book are several children so readers should feel as if they are a part of the story. The last page of the book include notes for adults to use as suggestions birthday suggestions, encouraging children to mark their birthdays on a calendar, and possibly dancing a ‘gratitude dance’ for all they have been given.
The back of this book suggests a Level B reading guide is available, yet, after going to the web site, I could not find anything above Level H. Also, the reading level suggestion is 4-7. As a trained Reading Specialist, I would think the reading level should be more effective for PreK to Kindergarten.
BIBLIO: 2010, Crabtree Publishing, Ages 4 – 7, $5.95.
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 978-0-7787-9462-2
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 3/31/10
It’s My Birthday begins with words children should know as the book is read to them. As a child is celebrating their birthday with a party, a cake follows with candles to blow out. There are presents to open, and a funny clown appears. The clown makes balloon animals for the children at the party. The book goes on to pull children into the story by asking when their birthdays are and how old they are. An activity is included encouraging a group of children to use their bodies to make letters relevant to the subject of the book. The photographs included in the book are several children so readers should feel as if they are a part of the story. The last page of the book include notes for adults to use as suggestions birthday suggestions, encouraging children to mark their birthdays on a calendar, and possibly dancing a ‘gratitude dance’ for all they have been given.
The back of this book suggests a Level B reading guide is available, yet, after going to the web site, I could not find anything above Level H. Also, the reading level suggestion is 4-7. As a trained Reading Specialist, I would think the reading level should be more effective for PreK to Kindergarten.
BIBLIO: 2010, Crabtree Publishing, Ages 4 – 7, $5.95.
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 978-0-7787-9462-2
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 3/31/10
Where Do Polar Bears Live?
Sarah L. Thomson
Illustrated by Jason Chin
Four months ago a polar cub was born in this Arctic den, and he depended only on his mother for his milk and heat. Finally, in the spring, they leave the den to play and explore. The Arctic is cold … even with the sun, if could be fifty degrees below zero, but with their thick fur and layer of fat under the skin, being outside is an opportunity to soak up the sun. The mother wants to eat, so she hunts, looking for prey that will fill their stomachs. On the Arctic Island where the mother and cub live, there is land, rocks, and tundra. She is not the only one looking for food. An Arctic fox competes for the meat she has caught. The cub will stay with his mother for two years before he strikes out on his own. When he is full-grown, he will become the biggest hunter on land … yet, the polar bears will become thinner without ice to live on and prey to hunt.
This book was very informative on an educational level. I’m not sure the reading level is appropriate for the information presented, although children do need to be made aware of the ecological changes. The Illustrations are warm and colorful and add to the scientific information presented.
BIBLIO: 2010, Harper Collins Children’s Books, Ages 5 – 9, $16.99.
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book / Easy to Read Science
ISBN: 976-0-06-157518-1
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 3/31/10
Illustrated by Jason Chin
Four months ago a polar cub was born in this Arctic den, and he depended only on his mother for his milk and heat. Finally, in the spring, they leave the den to play and explore. The Arctic is cold … even with the sun, if could be fifty degrees below zero, but with their thick fur and layer of fat under the skin, being outside is an opportunity to soak up the sun. The mother wants to eat, so she hunts, looking for prey that will fill their stomachs. On the Arctic Island where the mother and cub live, there is land, rocks, and tundra. She is not the only one looking for food. An Arctic fox competes for the meat she has caught. The cub will stay with his mother for two years before he strikes out on his own. When he is full-grown, he will become the biggest hunter on land … yet, the polar bears will become thinner without ice to live on and prey to hunt.
This book was very informative on an educational level. I’m not sure the reading level is appropriate for the information presented, although children do need to be made aware of the ecological changes. The Illustrations are warm and colorful and add to the scientific information presented.
BIBLIO: 2010, Harper Collins Children’s Books, Ages 5 – 9, $16.99.
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book / Easy to Read Science
ISBN: 976-0-06-157518-1
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 3/31/10
Bella, The Birthday Party
Mandy Stanley
Bella is a rabbit who has lived with her family on a hill until one day she saw a little girl wearing wings and chasing a balloon. What Bella did not know was the little girl was having her birthday. Bella decided to follow the little girl to find out what was going on. Soon, Bella discovered the little girl was having a birthday party and Bella was invited to the party. The little girl, Jasmine, her mommy, and other children were having a picnic. Bella, Jasmine, and the children enjoyed playing the usual birthday games … and then Jasmine opened her presents. Bella was sad she didn’t have anything to give Jasmine for her birthday. But Jasmine wanted to share one of her presents with Bella! The day turned out to be a wonderful time not just for Jasmine for her birthday, but for Bella who had never had a day like that before.
Bella, The Birthday Party is a sweet book for preschoolers. The illustrations are colorful and engaging for the text. This is a wonderful book to introduce preschoolers to reading, though I would not recommend it to older children.
BIBLIO: 2010, Tiger Tales’, Ages 2 – 5, $9.95.
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 978-1-58925-850-1
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 3/31/10
Bella is a rabbit who has lived with her family on a hill until one day she saw a little girl wearing wings and chasing a balloon. What Bella did not know was the little girl was having her birthday. Bella decided to follow the little girl to find out what was going on. Soon, Bella discovered the little girl was having a birthday party and Bella was invited to the party. The little girl, Jasmine, her mommy, and other children were having a picnic. Bella, Jasmine, and the children enjoyed playing the usual birthday games … and then Jasmine opened her presents. Bella was sad she didn’t have anything to give Jasmine for her birthday. But Jasmine wanted to share one of her presents with Bella! The day turned out to be a wonderful time not just for Jasmine for her birthday, but for Bella who had never had a day like that before.
Bella, The Birthday Party is a sweet book for preschoolers. The illustrations are colorful and engaging for the text. This is a wonderful book to introduce preschoolers to reading, though I would not recommend it to older children.
BIBLIO: 2010, Tiger Tales’, Ages 2 – 5, $9.95.
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 978-1-58925-850-1
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 3/31/10
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