Hans Wilhelm
Children just seem to get the idea of love very easily…especially when love is shared with a pet. This pet is Elfie – “the best dog in the whole world”. Elfie grew up with her boy, even if she did grow a little faster than he did, it didn’t matter to either of them. Adventures were more fun shared together as birthdays were, and naps were too. She was special to everybody in the family…mom, dad, little sister, and bigger brother. They all said so, but only her boy told her he loved her every day and every night. They did everything together, including evading trouble. Then, Elfie stopped growing, and started slowing down. A trip to the vet and Elfie’s family got sad. Elfie was just getting old and her family knew they wouldn’t have much more time together.
The illustrations are muted watercolors to engage the younger age children. So beautifully done, the illustrations even catch the expressions on Elfie’s face. Wilhelm has taken the issue of a pet’s death and gently incorporated it into I’ll Always Love You. Death is a concept, or issue, that small and older children may have a difficult time understanding. Yet, within these pages, her boy tells Elfie every day, “I’ll always love you”, and when her time comes, he knows he did right by his best friend. There’s a lesson here for families everywhere, with or without pets. Remember to tell those you love, that you love them. When you read this gentle love story to your children, love on them and tell them how much you love them also.
As a side note, I first read this charmer to my oldest son, now 29, then my youngest son, now 20, and still have the original copy that was purchased in the mid 1980’s.
The author has informed me it will soon be available by Random House as a hard cover. Wilhelm’s book placed on the 1987 Massachusetts Children’s Book Master List.
BIBLIO: 1985, Random House Books, Ages 4 - 8, $6.99.
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book / Easy Reader
ISBN: 978-0-517-57265-8
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Sunday, December 19, 2010
There Was An Old Lady Who Swallowed Some Leaves!
Lucille Colandro
Illustrated by Jared Lee
The old lady is swallowing leaves! She has such a big mouth you have to wonder just how many leaves she is going to really swallow. Is she like a leaf vacuum? How do the leaves know to come to her mouth? Why is the dog near her not swallowed along with the leaves? What about the bird on the branch just above her head? Why just the leaves? Each time the old lady swallows a new item; her mouth seems to get bigger. Her feet are very tiny in respect to her body and mouth size, just saying. This old lady should have a very difficult time walking even if she does not swallow a pumpkin and a pole – and a pair of pants! The final item is a bunch of hay, which could easily start an allergy attack! Do you think that is the reason she begins to sneeze? She begins to sneeze until everything comes out. Do you think you know why she swallowed all this stuff?
This book is a remake of a previous picture / rhyming book that was very popular. The unfortunate thing at this time, it proves the point that not all remakes work. Perhaps if we are lucky, we will not see a slew of remakes of this type of picture book. Save your money, purchase the original; it is worth the money spent.
BIBLIO: 2010, Cartwheel Books, Ages 3+, $5.99.
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book / Rhyming Text
ISBN: 978-0-545-24198-4
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 11-5-10
Illustrated by Jared Lee
The old lady is swallowing leaves! She has such a big mouth you have to wonder just how many leaves she is going to really swallow. Is she like a leaf vacuum? How do the leaves know to come to her mouth? Why is the dog near her not swallowed along with the leaves? What about the bird on the branch just above her head? Why just the leaves? Each time the old lady swallows a new item; her mouth seems to get bigger. Her feet are very tiny in respect to her body and mouth size, just saying. This old lady should have a very difficult time walking even if she does not swallow a pumpkin and a pole – and a pair of pants! The final item is a bunch of hay, which could easily start an allergy attack! Do you think that is the reason she begins to sneeze? She begins to sneeze until everything comes out. Do you think you know why she swallowed all this stuff?
This book is a remake of a previous picture / rhyming book that was very popular. The unfortunate thing at this time, it proves the point that not all remakes work. Perhaps if we are lucky, we will not see a slew of remakes of this type of picture book. Save your money, purchase the original; it is worth the money spent.
BIBLIO: 2010, Cartwheel Books, Ages 3+, $5.99.
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book / Rhyming Text
ISBN: 978-0-545-24198-4
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 11-5-10
The Thinga-ma-jigger Is Coming Today!
Whitney Sanderson
Illustrated by Ruth Sanderson
The Thinga-ma-jigger – you know it is coming, and it is coming today! The Cat in the Hat is back and he has brought Sally and Nick and Thing One and Thing Two and other characters too. Flick a switch and the jiggermawhizzer and you can zing around and bang with a ring-a-ding-dinging. However, do not stop there. There is a whole forest of jigamaroo and if you press the shrinkamadoodle – that is right, you will shrink! So much fun when you have shrunk you can actually dance with bees, and bounce on petals! There is a remedy for the shrinkamadoodle, let me see – oh yes, it is the bigamaboodle! Whodathunk! There may be a problem stopping, but surely, there is a toggle or boodle or whizzer of some kind that will fix that.
Dr. Seuss, welcome to TV. This Golden Book is based on part of, The Cat in the Hat Knows a Lot About That! This story is typically a rolling bit of fun; make sure your tongue is fit and ready for the roller coaster of exercise typical to Dr. Seuss. Your youngsters will not let you put this one down. It is genuinely funny, whether you have access to the TV show or not. The illustrations are bright, fascinating, and even mercurial. You should buy this book even if you do not have small children; it is a treat to your inner child.
BIBLIO: 2010, Random House Books for Young Readers, Ages 2-5, $3.99.
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Rhyming Words / Picture Books
ISBN: 978-0-375-85927-4
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 11-5-10
Illustrated by Ruth Sanderson
The Thinga-ma-jigger – you know it is coming, and it is coming today! The Cat in the Hat is back and he has brought Sally and Nick and Thing One and Thing Two and other characters too. Flick a switch and the jiggermawhizzer and you can zing around and bang with a ring-a-ding-dinging. However, do not stop there. There is a whole forest of jigamaroo and if you press the shrinkamadoodle – that is right, you will shrink! So much fun when you have shrunk you can actually dance with bees, and bounce on petals! There is a remedy for the shrinkamadoodle, let me see – oh yes, it is the bigamaboodle! Whodathunk! There may be a problem stopping, but surely, there is a toggle or boodle or whizzer of some kind that will fix that.
Dr. Seuss, welcome to TV. This Golden Book is based on part of, The Cat in the Hat Knows a Lot About That! This story is typically a rolling bit of fun; make sure your tongue is fit and ready for the roller coaster of exercise typical to Dr. Seuss. Your youngsters will not let you put this one down. It is genuinely funny, whether you have access to the TV show or not. The illustrations are bright, fascinating, and even mercurial. You should buy this book even if you do not have small children; it is a treat to your inner child.
BIBLIO: 2010, Random House Books for Young Readers, Ages 2-5, $3.99.
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Rhyming Words / Picture Books
ISBN: 978-0-375-85927-4
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 11-5-10
Ivy Loves to Give
Freya Blackwood
Ivy, as the book title says, really loves to give. The problem is her gifts are not the right size or the correct style for the recipient. For an example, the first gift she gives is a shoe to a snail. That will never do! Her dad comes looking for his other shoe, while the dog and Ivy are trying to make the glasses fit. Grandma cannot see well to find her extra set of eyes and the hen is not enjoying the cup of tea. Ivy keeps trying though. Miss Kitty does not like baby’s pacifier and baby is not happy about that. So many gifts Ivy has to give out, yet none of them are happy gifts. How can Ivy turn her gifts into happy ones?
Children love to give, and Ivy is certainly no different. Ivy learns an important lesson in this book, especially, not to give people’s things to the family pets. This book encourages children to give while helping them to think about who they are giving the gift to, which is important. The thought process involved is complicated for children that age (three and up), but using the family pets and family items young children can relate to appropriate gift giving. The illustrations are beautiful and if you pay attention, there are a couple of great surprises. If you have children or grandchildren this is a book for your home library.
BIBLIO: 2009, Arthur A Levine Books, Ages 3+, $15.99.
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 978-0-545-23467-2
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 11-5-10
Ivy, as the book title says, really loves to give. The problem is her gifts are not the right size or the correct style for the recipient. For an example, the first gift she gives is a shoe to a snail. That will never do! Her dad comes looking for his other shoe, while the dog and Ivy are trying to make the glasses fit. Grandma cannot see well to find her extra set of eyes and the hen is not enjoying the cup of tea. Ivy keeps trying though. Miss Kitty does not like baby’s pacifier and baby is not happy about that. So many gifts Ivy has to give out, yet none of them are happy gifts. How can Ivy turn her gifts into happy ones?
Children love to give, and Ivy is certainly no different. Ivy learns an important lesson in this book, especially, not to give people’s things to the family pets. This book encourages children to give while helping them to think about who they are giving the gift to, which is important. The thought process involved is complicated for children that age (three and up), but using the family pets and family items young children can relate to appropriate gift giving. The illustrations are beautiful and if you pay attention, there are a couple of great surprises. If you have children or grandchildren this is a book for your home library.
BIBLIO: 2009, Arthur A Levine Books, Ages 3+, $15.99.
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 978-0-545-23467-2
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 11-5-10
Hush, Hush!
Margaret Wild
Illustrations by Bridget Strevens-Marzo
Baby Hippo just cannot fall asleep. Like so many babies, he wiggles, and waggles his legs, and he makes so much noise. His mum wants him to quiet down and just go to sleep. However, Baby Hippo cannot hush. He decides to go for a walk. As he walks along he walks through the soggy, boggy mud and this is what he hears, “Hush, hush,” As the pelicans go to sleep. Baby Hippo trots over hard lumpy rocks where the alligators are and this is what he hears, “Hush, hush.” Continuing his journey, Baby Hippo listens to many of the jungle babies, and he hears “Hush, hush.” Finally, he yawns, he is getting tired, but he is not at home. Will he be able to stay awake until he gets home?
This is a sweet book for young readers; it would even be good for the nighttime ritual. The colorful illustrations are perfect for the text and bring the story to life. The other animals will pique your child’s curiosity. The colorful illustration of the animals will draw young children into the story. They will also remember the simple text and relate the pictures and text together. This is a great book for reading comprehension.
BIBLIO: 2010, Little Hare Books, Ages 3+, $14.99.
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 978-1-921272-86-8
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 11-5-10
Illustrations by Bridget Strevens-Marzo
Baby Hippo just cannot fall asleep. Like so many babies, he wiggles, and waggles his legs, and he makes so much noise. His mum wants him to quiet down and just go to sleep. However, Baby Hippo cannot hush. He decides to go for a walk. As he walks along he walks through the soggy, boggy mud and this is what he hears, “Hush, hush,” As the pelicans go to sleep. Baby Hippo trots over hard lumpy rocks where the alligators are and this is what he hears, “Hush, hush.” Continuing his journey, Baby Hippo listens to many of the jungle babies, and he hears “Hush, hush.” Finally, he yawns, he is getting tired, but he is not at home. Will he be able to stay awake until he gets home?
This is a sweet book for young readers; it would even be good for the nighttime ritual. The colorful illustrations are perfect for the text and bring the story to life. The other animals will pique your child’s curiosity. The colorful illustration of the animals will draw young children into the story. They will also remember the simple text and relate the pictures and text together. This is a great book for reading comprehension.
BIBLIO: 2010, Little Hare Books, Ages 3+, $14.99.
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 978-1-921272-86-8
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 11-5-10
Horse Diaries – Golden Sun
Whitney Sanderson
Illustrated by Ruth Sanderson
Little Turtle, is only nine winter’s old, when he chooses Golden Sun, an Appaloosa pony, for himself. Golden Sun, a quick learner, wants Little Turtle to be proud of him. Golden Sun listens closely when Little Turtle trains him so he will be proud of his pony. The spotted horses of Little Turtle’s tribe, the Nimi’ipuu, call the horses, such as Golden Sun, Maamin. Little Turtle is waiting patiently until Golden Sun is old enough, and big enough for him to ride. In the meantime, there is much for both of them to learn.
One day a young filly swims across the river that separates two tribes. The filly is stomping her back feet and snorting her nose, making a lot of noise. Golden Sun speaks to her, trying to calm her. A friend of Little Turtle, Pale Moon decides she likes the new filly and wants to keep her. Golden Sun speaks to the new filly about the tribe’s ways, but the filly is afraid, she has not been treated well. Pale Moon is kind to the filly, calls her Dancing Feather and gives her good food.
The two colts learn together and grow as their tribal counterparts. It is not long before they are bigger and racing side by side. Soon, Golden Sun accompanies Little Turtle to a very special time in his life; most horses are not allowed to go.
This is a very enjoyable read for young readers, especially those who like horses. The point of view is strictly from Golden Sun, and he manages to educate the reader while engaging them. The black and white illustrations are finely detailed allowing for an open window into the tribe’s life. At the end of the book, Sanderson included an appendix giving more information about the Appaloosa horses, which is very helpful and informational to the story. A great book to add to any library.
BIBLIO: 2010, Random House Books for Young Readers, Ages 8-12, $6.99.
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Chapter Book / Juvenile Fiction
ISBN: 978-0-375-86194-9
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 11-5-10
Illustrated by Ruth Sanderson
Little Turtle, is only nine winter’s old, when he chooses Golden Sun, an Appaloosa pony, for himself. Golden Sun, a quick learner, wants Little Turtle to be proud of him. Golden Sun listens closely when Little Turtle trains him so he will be proud of his pony. The spotted horses of Little Turtle’s tribe, the Nimi’ipuu, call the horses, such as Golden Sun, Maamin. Little Turtle is waiting patiently until Golden Sun is old enough, and big enough for him to ride. In the meantime, there is much for both of them to learn.
One day a young filly swims across the river that separates two tribes. The filly is stomping her back feet and snorting her nose, making a lot of noise. Golden Sun speaks to her, trying to calm her. A friend of Little Turtle, Pale Moon decides she likes the new filly and wants to keep her. Golden Sun speaks to the new filly about the tribe’s ways, but the filly is afraid, she has not been treated well. Pale Moon is kind to the filly, calls her Dancing Feather and gives her good food.
The two colts learn together and grow as their tribal counterparts. It is not long before they are bigger and racing side by side. Soon, Golden Sun accompanies Little Turtle to a very special time in his life; most horses are not allowed to go.
This is a very enjoyable read for young readers, especially those who like horses. The point of view is strictly from Golden Sun, and he manages to educate the reader while engaging them. The black and white illustrations are finely detailed allowing for an open window into the tribe’s life. At the end of the book, Sanderson included an appendix giving more information about the Appaloosa horses, which is very helpful and informational to the story. A great book to add to any library.
BIBLIO: 2010, Random House Books for Young Readers, Ages 8-12, $6.99.
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Chapter Book / Juvenile Fiction
ISBN: 978-0-375-86194-9
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 11-5-10
Sunday, September 12, 2010
Pocoyo – Story Time
Author – Red Fox
Pocoyo and his friends, Pato, Elly, and Loula, share four stories for young readers. The first, A Little Cloud, seems to be determined to put a damper on Pocoyo’s day. After what seems to be a battle of wits, Pocoyo and the cloud come to an agreement. The cloud has a lesson for Pocoyo and his friends about friendship. In Swept Away, Pocoyo is expecting company but has a mess to clean up first. When his imagination gets the best of him, he must hurry before Elly arrives. Why is it that toys must be picked up just to pull them out again? Pocoyo comes across an umbrella in the third story, Umbrella, Umbrella, and a new game is found. Sure enough the wind and rain aren’t far behind. The fourth story is all about a birthday party and what Pocoyo decides to give Elly. It’s all about Pocoyo and his imagination.
Pocoyo – Story Time is developed through the Learning Through Laughter Series, which is a television show. Children who do not have the advantage of watching the show on TV may not appreciate the characters, which come directly from the TV series. There is not any illustration, per se. also, the recommended reading level is 4-8. The text of the book is more conducive towards readers in the age group of 3-5, and better if it is backed up with the TV series.
BIBLIO: 2006, Random House Children’s Books, Ages 4-8, $9.99.
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 978-1-862-30391-1
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 9-9-10
Pocoyo and his friends, Pato, Elly, and Loula, share four stories for young readers. The first, A Little Cloud, seems to be determined to put a damper on Pocoyo’s day. After what seems to be a battle of wits, Pocoyo and the cloud come to an agreement. The cloud has a lesson for Pocoyo and his friends about friendship. In Swept Away, Pocoyo is expecting company but has a mess to clean up first. When his imagination gets the best of him, he must hurry before Elly arrives. Why is it that toys must be picked up just to pull them out again? Pocoyo comes across an umbrella in the third story, Umbrella, Umbrella, and a new game is found. Sure enough the wind and rain aren’t far behind. The fourth story is all about a birthday party and what Pocoyo decides to give Elly. It’s all about Pocoyo and his imagination.
Pocoyo – Story Time is developed through the Learning Through Laughter Series, which is a television show. Children who do not have the advantage of watching the show on TV may not appreciate the characters, which come directly from the TV series. There is not any illustration, per se. also, the recommended reading level is 4-8. The text of the book is more conducive towards readers in the age group of 3-5, and better if it is backed up with the TV series.
BIBLIO: 2006, Random House Children’s Books, Ages 4-8, $9.99.
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 978-1-862-30391-1
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 9-9-10
The Derby Ram
Adapted by John M. Feierabend
Illustrated by Jackie Roche
The Derby Ram is an adaption of a folksong believed to be originally sung in Derby, England. Different stories are associated with the folksong in England and now in the United States. It is said, by the text of the song, there was a ram that was so big the wool on his back reached into the sky. Because his back reached up so high, eagles built nests there.
This book is more appropriate for a music class or even perhaps a piano teacher, as the music score and lyrics are available in the back of the book. While the illustrations are pretty, they give an ethereal effect rather than engaging readers into the text. The suggested age is 4-8, again, this is not a book most parents would just sit down and read to a child. Especially the sing-song is a distraction for a simple reading. At the end of the book, Feierabend has included a wealth of information regarding “The Derby Ram” that is helpful in understanding why he choose to adapt this folksong. Finally, a free mp3 can be downloaded by following the directions in the book.
BIBLIO: 2010, GIA Publications, Inc., Ages 4-8, $16.95.
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 978-1-57999-783-0
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 9-9-10
Illustrated by Jackie Roche
The Derby Ram is an adaption of a folksong believed to be originally sung in Derby, England. Different stories are associated with the folksong in England and now in the United States. It is said, by the text of the song, there was a ram that was so big the wool on his back reached into the sky. Because his back reached up so high, eagles built nests there.
This book is more appropriate for a music class or even perhaps a piano teacher, as the music score and lyrics are available in the back of the book. While the illustrations are pretty, they give an ethereal effect rather than engaging readers into the text. The suggested age is 4-8, again, this is not a book most parents would just sit down and read to a child. Especially the sing-song is a distraction for a simple reading. At the end of the book, Feierabend has included a wealth of information regarding “The Derby Ram” that is helpful in understanding why he choose to adapt this folksong. Finally, a free mp3 can be downloaded by following the directions in the book.
BIBLIO: 2010, GIA Publications, Inc., Ages 4-8, $16.95.
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 978-1-57999-783-0
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 9-9-10
My Vancouver Sketchbook
Robert Perry
Illustrations by Greta Guzek
The narrator, Marina, has a concept of journeying through Vancouver with a paintbrush and palette in hand that may seem a little daunting, but with her sketchbook she seems determined. Hence the title, My Vancouver Sketchbook, and Marina’s adventure spans from dawn ‘till dark. Going through the Nitobe Memorial Garden, Marina paints the blossoms that must be reflections of a small Japanese retreat. From mountains and beaches, and a children’s festival to the Maritime Museum she paints it all. The text rhymes with short bursts of poetry, no more than four lines at a time that draws the reader to the illustrations. The sights are a multitude of visions – ferryboats, pigeons, flying kites, Canadian Geese, puppets, a wood carver, and so much more.
This book is a perfect argument of what came first, the text or the illustration. The artists worked well together and the book looks exactly like Marina’s sketchbook. The illustrations are beautiful watercolors – almost makes you wonder just how Marina managed during the course of her day! In the middle of the book is a two-page map of Marina’s journey, which is a perfect stop for young readers to engage with the rhyming text. Kudos to Perry and Guzek for an introduction to Vancouver that even those of us south of the border can enjoy!
BIBLIO: 2001, Nightwood Editions, Ages K - Up, $9.95.
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book / Rhyming Text
ISBN: 978-0-88971-248-5
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 9-9-10
Illustrations by Greta Guzek
The narrator, Marina, has a concept of journeying through Vancouver with a paintbrush and palette in hand that may seem a little daunting, but with her sketchbook she seems determined. Hence the title, My Vancouver Sketchbook, and Marina’s adventure spans from dawn ‘till dark. Going through the Nitobe Memorial Garden, Marina paints the blossoms that must be reflections of a small Japanese retreat. From mountains and beaches, and a children’s festival to the Maritime Museum she paints it all. The text rhymes with short bursts of poetry, no more than four lines at a time that draws the reader to the illustrations. The sights are a multitude of visions – ferryboats, pigeons, flying kites, Canadian Geese, puppets, a wood carver, and so much more.
This book is a perfect argument of what came first, the text or the illustration. The artists worked well together and the book looks exactly like Marina’s sketchbook. The illustrations are beautiful watercolors – almost makes you wonder just how Marina managed during the course of her day! In the middle of the book is a two-page map of Marina’s journey, which is a perfect stop for young readers to engage with the rhyming text. Kudos to Perry and Guzek for an introduction to Vancouver that even those of us south of the border can enjoy!
BIBLIO: 2001, Nightwood Editions, Ages K - Up, $9.95.
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book / Rhyming Text
ISBN: 978-0-88971-248-5
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 9-9-10
Mommy Is a Soft, Warm Kiss
Rhonda Gowler Greene
Illustrated by Maggie Smith
Rhyming text shows the excited story of a daughter’s tale of time with her mommy. Planting the garden is fun, not a chore, because it’s with mommy. Waking up in the morning when mommy tickles her awake is more fun than simply being called. A summer day at the beach when mommy is buried in the sand, being rocked to sleep all cozy in her lap, and helping with the Thanksgiving dinner. When the winter comes with the soft white snow and even when being sick in bed – her mommy makes it all very special.
Little girls love their mommies and this book is the quintessential example of that love. The rhyming text is perfect, the colorful illustrations not only meet the text but flow like a mind merge between author and illustrator. A card is included which makes this book a perfect gift between daughter and mother – at any age. Put it on your home shelf, give it as a gift. This is not a book any mother with a daughter should miss.
BIBLIO: 2010, Walker & Company, Ages 3-6, $14.99.
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book / Rhyming Text
ISBN: 978-0-8027-9729-2
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 9-9-10
Illustrated by Maggie Smith
Rhyming text shows the excited story of a daughter’s tale of time with her mommy. Planting the garden is fun, not a chore, because it’s with mommy. Waking up in the morning when mommy tickles her awake is more fun than simply being called. A summer day at the beach when mommy is buried in the sand, being rocked to sleep all cozy in her lap, and helping with the Thanksgiving dinner. When the winter comes with the soft white snow and even when being sick in bed – her mommy makes it all very special.
Little girls love their mommies and this book is the quintessential example of that love. The rhyming text is perfect, the colorful illustrations not only meet the text but flow like a mind merge between author and illustrator. A card is included which makes this book a perfect gift between daughter and mother – at any age. Put it on your home shelf, give it as a gift. This is not a book any mother with a daughter should miss.
BIBLIO: 2010, Walker & Company, Ages 3-6, $14.99.
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book / Rhyming Text
ISBN: 978-0-8027-9729-2
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 9-9-10
Happy Birthday, Bertie!
Marcus Pfister
Bertie is having a birthday and three of his best friends are coming. Before they come though, there is so much to do. First he wants to have a bath, which reminds him of the gift he hopes his daddy is giving him, goggles, for when he goes swimming! The most important thing is baking his birthday cake and he is going to help his daddy. After the chocolate frosting, they put on candies and candles and Bertie asks if he can open daddy’s present. But daddy wants him to wait. Decorations have to go up and then the doorbell rings – Hannah, Alex, and Benny arrive for the party. With presents for Bertie! After playing and singing happy birthday to Bertie they all sit down to eat the cake. Finally it is time to open the presents. What will Bertie get?
This book is an interesting concept. Most books are focused on children with families or children with mothers, but this one is a child and his daddy. This is important because the daddy-child relationship is one that seems to be neglected. Pfister’s story shows a loving relationship with his son that is built through helping, fun, and caring. The colorful illustrations of hippos add an element of fancy that transcends race, even gender. It is a fun book to read and the age appropriateness is correct to the level suggested. Add this book to a home, public, or school library – children will not be disappointed.
BIBLIO: 2010, NorthSouth, Ages 4-8, $16.95.
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 978-0-7358-2280-1
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 9-9-10
Bertie is having a birthday and three of his best friends are coming. Before they come though, there is so much to do. First he wants to have a bath, which reminds him of the gift he hopes his daddy is giving him, goggles, for when he goes swimming! The most important thing is baking his birthday cake and he is going to help his daddy. After the chocolate frosting, they put on candies and candles and Bertie asks if he can open daddy’s present. But daddy wants him to wait. Decorations have to go up and then the doorbell rings – Hannah, Alex, and Benny arrive for the party. With presents for Bertie! After playing and singing happy birthday to Bertie they all sit down to eat the cake. Finally it is time to open the presents. What will Bertie get?
This book is an interesting concept. Most books are focused on children with families or children with mothers, but this one is a child and his daddy. This is important because the daddy-child relationship is one that seems to be neglected. Pfister’s story shows a loving relationship with his son that is built through helping, fun, and caring. The colorful illustrations of hippos add an element of fancy that transcends race, even gender. It is a fun book to read and the age appropriateness is correct to the level suggested. Add this book to a home, public, or school library – children will not be disappointed.
BIBLIO: 2010, NorthSouth, Ages 4-8, $16.95.
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 978-0-7358-2280-1
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 9-9-10
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Hip-Pocket Papa
Sandra Markle
Picture Book (4-7)
Rating: 5
Deep in Australia’s temperate rainforest, December has been a very dry summer. Hip-Pocket Papa is the perfect picture book with a story of a male hip-pocket frog that is no bigger than a thumbnail. He and his mate have been guarding a dozen pearl-like eggs from possible predators. A centipede, no longer than a grain of rice, arrives looking for food. The dad, using his long tongue snags that centipede and swallows it whole – even though it was far bigger than he was. For three more days the two hip-pocket frogs take their turns guarding and feeding their tiny eggs. Finally, when the twelve eggs hatch, the female hip-pocket frog has done her job and leaves the rest to her partner. He will care for the little tadpoles, feeding himself, and protecting his young until they are old enough to be on their own. One question is how will he protect the little tadpoles? Why is he called ‘hip-pocket’ papa?
Science is such a difficult subject to introduce to young readers. Authors have to decide how much information is enough, or how much is too much. Sandra Markle has done a remarkable job introducing a type of frog that most readers, regardless of age, have probably never heard of. The information given is appropriate for the ages and for sharing. The illustrations are bright and engaging, and bring the text to life. There is so much for the young readers to see on the pages. At the end of the book more information is provided in the animal glossary, and the author has provided more resources at the back. Markle did an excellent job on this book. It should not be missed.
Debby Willett
©2010
Previously published in the August 2010 issue of the Christian Library Journal.
Picture Book (4-7)
Rating: 5
Deep in Australia’s temperate rainforest, December has been a very dry summer. Hip-Pocket Papa is the perfect picture book with a story of a male hip-pocket frog that is no bigger than a thumbnail. He and his mate have been guarding a dozen pearl-like eggs from possible predators. A centipede, no longer than a grain of rice, arrives looking for food. The dad, using his long tongue snags that centipede and swallows it whole – even though it was far bigger than he was. For three more days the two hip-pocket frogs take their turns guarding and feeding their tiny eggs. Finally, when the twelve eggs hatch, the female hip-pocket frog has done her job and leaves the rest to her partner. He will care for the little tadpoles, feeding himself, and protecting his young until they are old enough to be on their own. One question is how will he protect the little tadpoles? Why is he called ‘hip-pocket’ papa?
Science is such a difficult subject to introduce to young readers. Authors have to decide how much information is enough, or how much is too much. Sandra Markle has done a remarkable job introducing a type of frog that most readers, regardless of age, have probably never heard of. The information given is appropriate for the ages and for sharing. The illustrations are bright and engaging, and bring the text to life. There is so much for the young readers to see on the pages. At the end of the book more information is provided in the animal glossary, and the author has provided more resources at the back. Markle did an excellent job on this book. It should not be missed.
Debby Willett
©2010
Previously published in the August 2010 issue of the Christian Library Journal.
Kyle’s Island
Sally Derby
Young Adult (YA)
Rating: 5
In 1974, Kyle has anticipated his summer at the family cottage after a difficult past. His dad left, his grandmother died, and his mother has troubles that only a single parent can really understand. The cottage has no indoor plumbing and the water is drawn from the pump outside. The family history is written on the walls and updated as seen fit. Kyle loves this family cottage and when his mother puts it up for sale; he does what is necessary to keep it in the family. The first buyers are not very impressed with the “homey” atmosphere and are more interested in tearing it down. Kyle, though, remembers something his dad taught him, about controlling his temper, and putting his energy to better use. Across the lake is the island he is finally old enough to explore by himself.
Kyle’s Island is a story of a young boy’s growth through loss, new perspective, and a willingness to learn, “Mostly we don’t know about other people”. The author, Sally Derby, creates a scenario around Kyle and his siblings dealing with a series of life’s difficulties almost any young teenager can relate to. At almost thirteen and dealing with the death of a grandparent, Kyle does not want to lose the only physical representation of his family history―the cottage. Derby brings the frustration of youth through Kyle’s voice, while juxtaposing those voices of his siblings―older sister Vicky, twin sister Andrea, and younger brother Josh. It is interesting to read through the eyes of a pre-teen boy and watch his growth over a summer. This is Derby’s first novel, and she does it well.
Debby Willett
©2010
Previously published in the August 2010 issue of the Christian Library Journal.
Young Adult (YA)
Rating: 5
In 1974, Kyle has anticipated his summer at the family cottage after a difficult past. His dad left, his grandmother died, and his mother has troubles that only a single parent can really understand. The cottage has no indoor plumbing and the water is drawn from the pump outside. The family history is written on the walls and updated as seen fit. Kyle loves this family cottage and when his mother puts it up for sale; he does what is necessary to keep it in the family. The first buyers are not very impressed with the “homey” atmosphere and are more interested in tearing it down. Kyle, though, remembers something his dad taught him, about controlling his temper, and putting his energy to better use. Across the lake is the island he is finally old enough to explore by himself.
Kyle’s Island is a story of a young boy’s growth through loss, new perspective, and a willingness to learn, “Mostly we don’t know about other people”. The author, Sally Derby, creates a scenario around Kyle and his siblings dealing with a series of life’s difficulties almost any young teenager can relate to. At almost thirteen and dealing with the death of a grandparent, Kyle does not want to lose the only physical representation of his family history―the cottage. Derby brings the frustration of youth through Kyle’s voice, while juxtaposing those voices of his siblings―older sister Vicky, twin sister Andrea, and younger brother Josh. It is interesting to read through the eyes of a pre-teen boy and watch his growth over a summer. This is Derby’s first novel, and she does it well.
Debby Willett
©2010
Previously published in the August 2010 issue of the Christian Library Journal.
Saturday, August 28, 2010
The Seventh Level
Jody Feldman
Travis Raines is 12 years old and in middle school. His greatest desire is to be able to join The Legend. It is, however, very secret, by invitation only, and no one ever, ever talks about it. Then one day, a shiny blue envelope mysteriously shows up in his locker. One of the requirements of The Legend is staying out of trouble. It is too bad for Travis that he keeps getting into trouble. That first letter from The Legend somehow goes flying out the second story window. To retrieve it, Travis makes a daring rescue from the roof, where he meets Assistant Principal Mrs. Pinchon when he comes back up. She is in charge of discipline, but for some reason she decides to take it easier on Travis. She also keeps telling him, “Things aren’t always as they appear, remember that.” Shiny blue envelopes continue appear in his locker, and soon he finds other blue envelopes addressed to him in another locker. Some messages could get him into trouble, and others remind him to stay out of trouble. What’s a 12 year old to do when he can’t talk with anyone about any of the messages – they are supposed to be secret! Travis has a dilemma on his hands. He has to follow the directions in the blue envelopes, but are they really from The Legend? And, why are the envelopes different? Travis tries to remember what Mrs. Pinchon said, “Things aren’t always as they appear.” Will he succeed, or will Travis wind up in more trouble?
Ms. Feldman’s story of a struggle for a 12 year old boy trying to determine what is the right thing to do in light of such great motivation. This chapter book was written for the 10 and up audience, perhaps they are a better judge of this type of story. It was a laborious read; perhaps the same story could have been told in half the pages.
BIBLIO: 2010, Greenwillow Books, Ages 10 and up, $16.99.
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: YA
ISBN: 978-0-06-195105-3
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 8/10/10
Travis Raines is 12 years old and in middle school. His greatest desire is to be able to join The Legend. It is, however, very secret, by invitation only, and no one ever, ever talks about it. Then one day, a shiny blue envelope mysteriously shows up in his locker. One of the requirements of The Legend is staying out of trouble. It is too bad for Travis that he keeps getting into trouble. That first letter from The Legend somehow goes flying out the second story window. To retrieve it, Travis makes a daring rescue from the roof, where he meets Assistant Principal Mrs. Pinchon when he comes back up. She is in charge of discipline, but for some reason she decides to take it easier on Travis. She also keeps telling him, “Things aren’t always as they appear, remember that.” Shiny blue envelopes continue appear in his locker, and soon he finds other blue envelopes addressed to him in another locker. Some messages could get him into trouble, and others remind him to stay out of trouble. What’s a 12 year old to do when he can’t talk with anyone about any of the messages – they are supposed to be secret! Travis has a dilemma on his hands. He has to follow the directions in the blue envelopes, but are they really from The Legend? And, why are the envelopes different? Travis tries to remember what Mrs. Pinchon said, “Things aren’t always as they appear.” Will he succeed, or will Travis wind up in more trouble?
Ms. Feldman’s story of a struggle for a 12 year old boy trying to determine what is the right thing to do in light of such great motivation. This chapter book was written for the 10 and up audience, perhaps they are a better judge of this type of story. It was a laborious read; perhaps the same story could have been told in half the pages.
BIBLIO: 2010, Greenwillow Books, Ages 10 and up, $16.99.
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: YA
ISBN: 978-0-06-195105-3
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 8/10/10
Freda Plans a Picnic
Stuart J. Murphy
Illustrated by Tim Jones
Freda Plans a Picnic is a playful story about a backyard picnic with friends. Freda invites her friends, a dog, and soon it is the morning of the picnic. First things to PACK in the basket are sandwiches, apples, and cookies. Freda’s mom wants to CARRY the basket outside before her friends arrive. It is heavy so they carry it together. The blanket has been spread and Freda’s friends begin to arrive – they all jump right in the middle. The food is UNPACKED and they are ready to EAT. Freda even has a treat for the dog! After dessert, it is time to CLEANUP. Everyone has so much fun they don’t want to stop.
Mr. Jones’ clever character illustrations are original and colorful and will surprise young readers while keeping their attention on the text. This book is part of Mr. Murphy’s “I See I Learn” Series, which is the reason for the capped words above. At the end of the book is “A Closer Look”, 5 questions, is included to engage the young reader and the one reading. This book is an excellent addition to any library.
BIBLIO: 2010, Charlesbridge, Ages 3 - 5, $14.95.
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 978-1-58089-456-2
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 8/10/10
Illustrated by Tim Jones
Freda Plans a Picnic is a playful story about a backyard picnic with friends. Freda invites her friends, a dog, and soon it is the morning of the picnic. First things to PACK in the basket are sandwiches, apples, and cookies. Freda’s mom wants to CARRY the basket outside before her friends arrive. It is heavy so they carry it together. The blanket has been spread and Freda’s friends begin to arrive – they all jump right in the middle. The food is UNPACKED and they are ready to EAT. Freda even has a treat for the dog! After dessert, it is time to CLEANUP. Everyone has so much fun they don’t want to stop.
Mr. Jones’ clever character illustrations are original and colorful and will surprise young readers while keeping their attention on the text. This book is part of Mr. Murphy’s “I See I Learn” Series, which is the reason for the capped words above. At the end of the book is “A Closer Look”, 5 questions, is included to engage the young reader and the one reading. This book is an excellent addition to any library.
BIBLIO: 2010, Charlesbridge, Ages 3 - 5, $14.95.
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Picture Book
ISBN: 978-1-58089-456-2
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 8/10/10
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