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Children's Bookwatch
Table of Contents
Reviewer's Choice
I Don't See Any Bears. Do You?
Theresa Howell & Larry Jones
Rising Moon
c/o Northland Publishing
PO Box 1389, Flagstaff, AZ 86002
0873588622 $7.95 1-800-346-3257
I Don't See Any Bears Do You?: A Glow-In-The-Dark Adventure is a simple, durable board book
for young readers, featuring colorful illustrations on every page and a set of glow-in-the-dark eye
stickers that wee folk can apply themselves. Amusing, simple questions such as "It says here that
this is where the moose are. I don't see any moose. Do you?" on each fanciful spread make I Don't
See Any Bears Do You? a wonderful beginning book to read aloud. A great way to get the very
young hooked on books.
Candlewick Press
1-800-526-0275 www.candlewick.com
Janet Pedersen's Millie Wants To Play! (0763619930, $15.99) tells of Millie, who gets up with the
sun and must await the rest of the barnyard's rising. How can she tell when the others want to
play? She must wait for a special 'rise and shine' noise. Frank Stockton's Bee-Man Of Orn
(0763622397, $17.99) receives gorgeous illustrations by P.J. Lynch and comes with a free DVD
showing the master illustrator at work in this fable of destiny. An old man is content to spend his
life with his beloved bees, until a Junior Sorcerer reveals he has become something different. His
search for his new and old selves is involving. The gorgeous Dragonology by Dr. Ernest Drake
(0763623296, $18.99) may not be entirely suitable for library lending it is packed with fold-outs
and tactile sections but will make a remarkable gift for any child interested in Dragons. From a
section on dragon natural history to tracking dragons and using maps, more than a bit of wry
humor will be discovered in its pages of insights ("Sadly, fatalities have resulted from very young,
inexperienced dragonologists being too keen to introduce themselves too soon.")
Pinata!
Rebecca Emberley
Little, Brown
1271 Ave. of Americas, NY, NY 10020
0316174122 $14.95 www.lb-kids.com
Ages 3-6 will not want to miss Rebecca Emberly's Pinata!, a highly recommended bilingual
Spanish/English survey of the items which traditionally stuff pi¤atas, and how pi¤atas are enjoyed
at a party. Very simple drawings accompany a fine survey of the pinata in all its glory and
appeal.
Supersnouts!
Steve Bjorkman
Holiday House
425 Madison Ave., NY, NY 10017
0823418103 $16.95 holidayhouse.com
It's a quiet evening on the surface; but all's not going well at Farmer Frank's: two burglars sneak
up to his house and it's up to three power porkers to get the Superhero Pig Patrol into action.
Steve Bjorkman's Supersnouts! is a truly hilarious adventure of a close encounter of the porcine
kind.
Crown Books
1745 Broadway, New York NY 10019
www.randomhouse.com
Susan Goldman Rubin's Art Against The Odds (0375824065, $19.95) takes an unusual approach
to exploring art for kids: it tells of young artists in history, from a World War II concentration
camp survivor to a Japanese-American girl in an internment camp in California, who used art as a
vehicle for expressing thoughts and depicting their worlds. This introduction to 'outsider art' for
kids discusses everything from slave quilts to prison paintings and is an absorbing, recommended
discussion for grades 4-6. Bryn Barnard's Dangerous Planet (0375822496, $17.95) surveys
natural disasters that changed history, from speculations about the dinosaur demise to the disaster
which may have fostered Greek civilization. In linking natural events to historic changes, Barnard
produces an unusual title which comes packed with detailed description and color
illustrations.
Habari Gani? What's The News?
Sundaira Morninghouse & Jody Kim
Open Hand Publishing
PO Box 20207, Greensboro, NC 27420
0940880393 $16.95 openhand.com
Especially recommended for young readers ages 5 to 12, Habari Gani?/What's The News? is a
picture book artfully written by Sundaira Morninghouse and charmingly illustrated by Jody Kim.
The theme is the African-American holiday of Kwanzaa and how seven year old Kia and her
family celebrate from December 26th to January 1st. "Habari Gani" is the greeting as each day of
Kwanzaa unfolds and the seven principles of Kwanzaa emerge within the fabric of Kia's family
and community. Habari Gani?/What's The News? will prove to be a very popular addition to
school and community library African-American, multicultural, and ethnic holiday
collections.
Henry and Mudge & The Funny Lunch
Cynthia Rylant
Simon & Schuster
1230 Ave. of the Americas, NY NY 10020
0689811780 $14.95 1-800-223-2336
With this Level 2 focus on independent reading skills, kids will more readily move from beginning
reader to enjoying more complex tales with paragraphs and short chapters. What better place to
start than with Henry and Mudge & The Funny Lunch, Cynthia Rylant's zany story of kids
determined to put together the best Mother's Day lunch ever against all odds color drawings
add to the appeal.
Houghton Mifflin Company
215 Park Avenue South, NY, NY 10003
www.houghtonmifflin.com
Taylor Morrison's Coast Mappers (0618-254080, $16.00) tells of one George Davidson, who in
1850 was asked to measure and chart America's entire Pacific Coast. His achievements and
surveys reads like fiction but provides a fine lively biographical sketch of a lesser-known key
achiever. Jacqueline Briggs Martin's Water Gift And The Pig Of The Pig (0618074368, $15.00)
uses lovely illustrations to tell of a divining rod, a loved pig, and a quiet girl. Good reading skills
or parental assistance will make this story, with Linda Wingerter's engaging drawings, a lively
read.
The Tale of Tales
Tony Mitton
David Fickling/Knopf Dell
1745 Broadway, New York NY 10019
www.randomhouse.com/kids
0385750161 $15.95 www.amazon.com
Peter Bailey provides the old-fashioned black and white illustrations to accompany this story of
Monkey and friend Elephant who set out in the jungle to hear the Tale of Tales. The Tale of Tales
is a 100+ page title which will prove an excellent folk story for read-aloud interest: some stories
within are told in poetic couplets, others in Aesop-tyle prose: a fine variety which defies
dullness.
The Fiction Shelf
Sixth Grade
Susie Morgenstern
Viking/Penguin
345 Hudson, New York NY 10014
0670036803 $15.99 www.penguin.com
Margot is anxious about a new grade level, new school and teachers, and a desire to be popular
even though she gets good grades. She's never been accepted in school before; now it's time to
move on in hopes of changes. The change from elementary to junior high schools is realistically
told through Margot's eyes in Susie Morgenstern's Sixth Grade.
Delacorte Press
www.randomhouse.com/kids
This publisher's new titles are highly recommended picks for leisure readers in grades 5-7. Lurlene
McDaniel's Time Capsule (055357096-X, $9.95) tells of a family struggling to recover from a
twin's battle with leukemia. Adam is now in remission, but the family still faces challenges;
especially when Adam falls ill again. A poignant story fueled by McDaniel's trademark of stories
about death and dying. Zilpha Keatley Snyder's Unseen (0553730845, $15.95) tells of a pre-teen
fascinated by magic, who rescues a beautiful bird and gains a strange feather and a new friendship
from the experience. The feather with a little knowledge proves the key to an unseen universe
in this gentle fantasy. Sylvie Waugh's Who Goes Home? (0553729650, $15.95) provides a
companion to SPACE RACE and Earthborn, telling of an extraterrestrial computer expert and a
sick son who grows up thinking he's of earth. This concludes the Ormingat Trilogy and is best
enjoyed by prior readers of Space Race and Earthborn. Alyssa Brugman's Walking Naked
(0553731159, $15.95) tells of a popular girl who makes an unlikely friend of Perdita, an odd
school outcast. Megan's odd evolving friendship with Perdita soon brings her to a crossroads in
friendships in this engaging story. Cherie Bennett and Jeff Gottesfeld's A Heart Divided
(0553-327498, $15.95) tells of a New York City girl whose family moves to a small town near
Nashville. Her experience of the Southern culture and sentiments will involve her in other worlds
and issues in this moving story. Nancy Werlin's Double Helix (055326066, $15.99) tells of a boy
offered an unbelievable job working for a legendary molecular biologist who seems to take an
uncommon shine to him. But why is his father so hostile to the scientist, who once knew his
mother? Eli's probe of the connection between Dr. Wyatt and his parents leads to a discovery
which will change his life. All are engrossing stories.
The Brothers Lionheart
Astrid Lindgren
Purple House Press
PO Box 787, Cynthiana, KY 41031
1930900244 $17.95 purplehousepress.com
Written by Astrid Lindgren, author of the children's classic "Pippi Longstocking" books and
winner of the Hans Christian Andersen Medal, The Brothers Lionheart is an enchanting fable
about two brothers. Big brother Jonathan tells his little brother Scotty's stories about
Nangiyala, a land across the stars, where people go when they die. Scotty is sick and afraid he'll
die, so he listens to stories of the wonderful adventures in Nangiyala, but he doesn't want to go
without his brother, where they will both be the Brothers Lionheart. A powerful and emotional
moving novel for readers of all ages.
I'm Not From Neptune
Carol Hamilton
Royal Fireworks Press
First Ave, Box 399, Unionville, NY 10988
088092537X $9.99 1-845-726-4444
Allie (considered a nerd by most of his schoolmates) is delighted to be accepted into the gifted
magnet program SEARCH with his friend Pet and a girl named Kelly. Allie and Pete share an
interest in astronomy. It's while setting up and focusing their telescopes in Allie's backyard that
they inadvertently sweep over Kelly's house and witness her father manhandling her. A deftly
written treatment of a sensitive and all to common occurrence, I'm Not From Neptune is the story
of young Allie's rise to popularity and eventual confrontation with the necessity of getting help for
Kelly in a physically abusive home. This is highly recommended reading -- especially for children
ages 10 through 14.
George Rogers Clark
Katharine E. Wilkie, author
Cathy Morrison, illustrator
Patria Press, Inc.
PO Box 752, Carmel, IN 46082
188285943X $14.95 1-317-577-1321
The latest in the "Young Patriots" series of young adult novels, George Rogers Clark: Boy Of
The Northwest Frontier by Katharine E. Wilie is a dramatic historical narrative of the childhood of
George Rogers Clark, who would grow up to be a Revolutionary War general and famous
explorer, as well as an inspiration for his younger brother William who would one day lead the
Lewis & Clark expedition. Cathy Morrison's black-and-white illustrations bring this adventurous
narrative to life; a tale that captures the imagination and introduces young people to American
history through the eyes of those who grew up in the midst of critical events.
Sigil Publishing
PO Box 824, Leland, MI 49654
www.sigilpublishing.com
"Knightscares" is an outstanding fantasy adventure series which is especially recommended for
young readers ages 8 and older, and co-authored by David Anthony and Charles David. The debut
entry to this nicely crafted contribution to the fantasy genre is Caldron Cooker's Night
(097284-6107, $5.99) with Josh and his sister Jozlyn getting involved with a witch and having to
save their townsfolk from a spell that has turned them all into frogs. Skull In The Birdcage
(0972846115, $5.99) finds that Connor and his magically talented friend Simon entangled with
goblins and skeletons in an ancient castle buried deep underground. Early Winter's Orb
(0972846123, $5.99) is the story of how Emily, with the help of her dog Leland and friend
Daniel, must strive with nymphs, wingstingers, snow beasts, and a dragon in her efforts to defeat
the cursed Winter Orb to save her people from an endless winter. A second trilogy in the
"Knightscares" series has now been launched with "The Dragonsbane Horn Trilogy" with Voyage
To Silvermight (09-72846131, $5.99) ghostly shaddim prowling the night in search of the broken
and scattered pieces of the Dragonsbane horn nd its magical powers. It's up to a band of young
heroes to find the Horn -- beginning with Silvermight, a legend buried in the desert wastes of the
Sandy Sea. Authors David Anthony and Charles David have fully mastered a challenging genre
and provide characters and storylines that will totally engage the minds and imaginations of their
readers who will look eagerly forward to future "Knightscare" titles!
The Picturebook Shelf
Gentle Giant
Michael Morpurgo
Collins/Trafalgar Square Pubs.
PO Box 257, North Pomfret, VT 05053
0007110642 $16.95 1-800-423-4525
In Gentle Giant, Michael Foreman provides the gorgeous color illustrations to this story of a sad
man who has grown up to be a giant, and who lives alone on a small island, with wild creatures
his only friends. When he saves a young girl from drowning, his life changes in unexpected ways.
A gorgeous, beautiful story of discovery and tenderness: highly recommended.
Daddies Give You Horsey Rides
Abby Levine & John Bendall-Brunello
Albert Whitman & Company
6340 Oakton St., Morton Grove, IL 60053
0807514292 $15.95 albertwhitman.com
John Bendall-Brunello's charming artwork is a perfect enhancement for Abby Levine's delightful
and original anthropomorphic story about how father's can shop, cook, fix leaky faucets, push
their little ones in swings, show their kids how to ride a bike, float like a whale, and be their form
them whenever a father's help and comfort are needed. Daddies Give You Horsey Rides is a
delightful picturebook story and highly recommended for family, school, and community library
bookshelves.
Oops-a-Daisy!
Claire Freedman & Gaby Hansen
Tiger Tales
202 Old Ridgefield Rd, Wilton, CT 06897
1589250370 $15.95 1-203-834-0005
Oops-a-Daisy! is a joyful children's picture book about learning and growing. Precocious baby
rabbit Daisy is having a tricky time learning how to hop - her Mama gently explains that
everybody needs to practice things, and after a long day of hard work, little Daisy finally masters
the skill of hopping all on her own. Gentle and pleasing color illustrations by Gaby Hansen add a
happy touch to Claire Freedman's original and engaging "read-aloud" story for children ages 3 to
7.
Dog Gone
Amanda Harvey
Doubleday
1745 Broadway, New York NY 10019
www.randomhouse.com/kids
0385746393 $15.95 www.amazon.com
Otis the dog spends a few nights away from his familiar bed and human companion Lucy: and he
isn't happy about being banished to the Dog Hotel. He misses his owner and his own bed, and
decides to take matters into his own paws in this picturebook story of a brave canine
adventurer.
Toto Of Oz And The Surprise Party
Roger S. Baum, author
Victoria Seitzinger, illustrator
The Overmountain Press
PO Box 1261, Johnson City, TN 37605
1570722846 $13.95 1-800-992-2691
Toto Of Oz And The Surprise Party is a merry children's picturebook, featuring soft but appealing
full-color illustrations and a charming story of beginning to intermediate reading level about a
little dog's adventures in a strange land. A wonderful side-story to the beloved children's classic
novel "Dorothy And The Wizard Of Oz", Toto Of Oz And The Surprise Party is a fine addition to
young children's literature shelves and makes for a meaningful read-along at storytime.
Bush Games And Knucklebones
Doris Kartinyeri, author
Kunyi June-Anne McInerney, illustrator
Magabala Books/ISBS
5824 NE Hassalo St, Portland, OR 97213
1875641815 $17.00 1-800-944-6190
Bush Games And Knucklebones is a picture book by Doris Kartinyeri which is based upon the
real life experience of Aboriginal children who grew up at Colebrook Home, while it was open
from 1924 to its demolishment in 1972. Many of the children were taken from their families under
the governmental policy of assimilation; some never saw their parents again. Bush Games And
Knucklebones tells of how these children formed a community, searched for bush food together,
played games like knucklebones using leftovers from the Sunday lamb roast, or sliding down hills
on sheets of galvanized iron. Enchanting color illustrations by Kunyi June-Anne McInerney of
growing children learning to have fun together despite being relocated and having their lives
changed by forces beyond their control, all in an era long before TV and video games, enhance
this playful and soulful picture book.
Echoes From The Square
Elizabeth Wellburn & Deryk Houston
Rubicon Publishing, Inc.
c/o International Publishers Marketing
PO Box 605, Herndon, VA 20172-0605
0921156995 $14.95 1-800-758-3756
Authored by Elizabeth Wellburn, Echoes From The Square is a heart-touching picture book about
a real-life heroic figure who dared to place his life on the line to inspire peace. On a street in
Sarajevo, marked by bombs, amid sniper bullets and exploding shells, Vedran Smailovic played his
cello for 22 days in remembrance of 22 victims of a terrible bomb blast. His musical call for peace
inspired this compelling picture book of a fictional boy whose life is all but destroyed by war
violence, yet who feels hope encountering the cellist on the street. Vivid, colorful paintings by
Deryk Houston visually bring this engaging and thoughtful story about finding meaning and
perseverance in dark times to life.
Scholastic Press
557 Broadway, New York NY 10012
www.scholastic.com
Five new titles stand out from others in using especially appealing drawings and fun themes to
invite young leisure picturebook readers. Brenda and Mark Weatherby's The Trucker
(0439398770, $15.95) tells of a little boy who plays quietly in his room until his toy truck
magically grows as big as a real one. Kids fascinated by big rigs will relish the theme and bright
drawings of this fantasy. Arriving too late for Easter mention but holding value for year-long
appeal is Paul Brett Johnson's Little Bunny Foo Foo (0439373018, $15.95), which adds a few
surprises to the traditional song and embellishes it with hand movements, music, and some new
perceptions ala the fairy. Sofie Laguna's Too Loud Lily (0439579139, $14.95) receives Kerry
Argent's warm drawings as it tells of a hippo who is too loud in everything she does. She gets in
trouble at home and at school until she finds a place which will appreciate her loudness.
Jonathan Emmett and Rebecca Harry's Ruby In Her Own Time (0439579155, $15.95) presents
the littlest of five ducklings the last to eat, and always behind her siblings. Her parents worry she
won't catch up, but Ruby is just taking her time coming into her own strengths in this very easy
reader. Tony and Jan Payne's The Hippo-Not-Amus (0439564182, $15.95) receives Guy
Parker-Rees's whimsical drawings as it tells of a stout hippo who wishes he wasn't so portly.
Deciding to change his species, Portly decides to embark on a search for the qualities which make
just the right kind of animal to be: a fine adventure evolves.
Harcourt
525 'B' Street, San Diego, CA 92101
$16.00 each www.harcourtbooks.com
Betsy's ups and downs as a first and as a third grader are recounted in two lovely new reprints of
Carolyn Haywood's classic "Betsy" series. B Is For Betsy (015205-1031) and Back To School
With Betsy (0152051058). New cartoonish cover art has been added to these classics to appeal to
new generations but inside one will discover the same classic Haywood illustrations as the
1940s titles originally contained. B Is For Betsy tells of the first grader's first encounter with
dreaded school. Back To School With Betsy has her in third grade, where her challenges include a
new teacher and a new neighbor in a once-spooky house. Endearing classics come to light for new
audiences.
Orchard Books
557 Broadway, New York NY 10012
www.scholastic.com
These new picturebook stories will delight young readers, offering something different in the way
of plots and illustrations. Kevin Lewis' The Runaway Pumpkin (0439439744, $15.95) follows the
fun story of a giant pumpkin set loose by the Baxters. As the pumpkin thumps through the family
farm, hilarious moments come to life in this zany tale which will appeal year-round. Paul Bright's
Quiet! (043954-5129, $15.95) enjoys Guy Parker-Rees' fun drawings as it tell of a lion family
trying to keep the jungle quiet so their son can sleep. His son's nap keeps Papa from stalking his
food in this whimsical story. Jim Aylesworth retells Goldilocks And The Three Bears
(0439395453, $15.95) presents a farm retelling, paired with Barbara McClintock's witty
drawings. Kids who appreciate an old-fashioned whimsy to their illustrations will relish the new
pairing. Pat Thomson's Drat That Fat Cat! (0439471958, $15.95) turns a traditional story around
in telling of a fat, fat cat who swallows an old lady. The cat's unusual appetite doesn't just stop
with the elderly, however, and a fun tale emerges. Douglas Wood's Old Turtle And The Broken
Truth (0439321093, $17.95) receives Jon Muth's warm watercolors as it tells of a turtle whose
experiences teach love and acceptance. Good picturebook reading skills or parental assistance will
aid in absorbing the message in this fine story. All are excellent leisure choices.
The Audiobook Shelf
Chitty Chitty Bang Bang
Ian Fleming
Random House Audio
1745 Broadway, New York, NY 10019
www.randomhouse.com/audio
0807216860 $18.00 www.amazon.com
Andrew Sachs provides the unabridged reading of Fleming's classic story of Chitty Chitty Bang
Bang, about a car that floats, flies, and can steer itself, bringing to life the tale and using his
extensive roles in TV, film and radio to add drama to the original classic story. New generations
of young listeners will find Chitty Chitty Bang Bang to be a fine and entertaining audiobook
pick.
Pop Princess
Rachel Cohn
Imagination Studio
c/o Random House Audio
1745 Broadway, New York, NY 10019
0807223344 $19.99 randomhouse.com
Pop Princess is an abridged audiobook (the abridgement was approved by the author Rachel
Cohn) on CD about Wonder Blake, a fifteen-year-old girl who is given a chance to make a dream
come true - that of becoming a teen idol. Haunted by memories of her older sister Lucky, who
tragically died while en route to becoming a big star, Wonder experiences hot and trendy changes
and the heady vapor of fame, but also finds that there is darkness behind the perceived glamour of
stardom, and longs to meet someone who likes her for who she is, not for her media image. A
sober and thoughtful story for all ages about real situations and the inner core that defines people,
Pop Princess is energetically narrated by Christy Carlson Romano. 2 CDS, 2 hours 10
minutes.
Listening Library
1540 Broadway, New York NY 10036
www.listeninglibrary.com
Four new audio titles pair unabridged productions with authors already very popular with teens.
New to the Nancy Drew mystery series if an audio version of Carolyn Keene's Mystery At Lilac
Inn (0807207-632, $18.00): the fourth book in the series revolving around a jinxed old inn. Laura
Linney provides a vivid reading. Franklin Dixon's Missing Chums (0807207756, $18.00) is the
fourth book of the popular Hardy Boys mystery series, and receives embellishment in a fine
unabridged production by Bill Irwin, who brings alive the story of missing boys and a gang's
hide-out. Books 1 and 2 of Lloyd Alexander's 'Prydian Chronicles' fantasy come to life under
readings by James Langton, an unabridged presentation which includes an introduction read by
Alexander himself, and vivid action. Book Of Three (0807223-131) and Black Cauldron
(0807223166, $26.00 each) enjoy fast-paced action and high drama.
The Pets/Wildlife Shelf
Black Bear
Stephen R. Swinburne
Boyds Mills Press
815 Church Street, Honesdale, PA 18431
www.boydsmillspress.com
159078023X $15.95 www.amazon.com
Three species of black bear inhabit North America, but the American black bear is the only one
found in only in North America. Author Stephen R. Swinburne journeys with wildlife biologists to
study the black bear, visiting those who work with them and discussing their history and habitats.
Color photos and an engaging text make Swinburne's Black Bear a true winner for any school or
community library Wildlife collection for your readers.
Curious Cats
Alvin & Virginia Silverstein
Laura S. Nunn
21st Century Books/Millbrook
2 Old New Milford Rd., Brookfield, CT 06804
0761325123 $23.90 millbrookpress.com
Kids seeking pets out of the ordinary will welcome this focus on cats, considering Bengals, Manx,
and other unusual breeds and the traits which make them possible pet candidates. Discussions of
origins and histories lead to internet sources and surveys of pros and cons of each breed, setting
Curious Cats quite apart from the more general cat pet books.
The Tarantula Scientist
Sy Montgomery
Houghton Mifflin
215 Park Avenue South, NY, NY 10003
0618147993 $18.00 www.amazon.com
Kids in grades 4-6 and more will relish Nic Bishop's startling close-up photos and scientist Sy
Montgomery's vivid descriptions of scientific investigations in his Tarantula Scientist. Almost 80
pages pack in the photos and plenty of facts about the giant spiders, and will delight kids of all
grade levels with accounts of investigative qualities. More than a picturebook but not quite a
pre-teen read, this will reach a larger audience than most simple spider coverages.
Grolier/Scholastic Inc.
557 Broadway, New York NY 10012
www.scholastic.com
This Grolier World Of Animals encyclopedia set won't be for every collection it's specialized
subject may not be appropriate for more diverse school library holdings but any who regularly
have kids in grades 4-8 who study birds will find this a welcome reference. 20 volumes provide an
A-Z set of topics on birds; diving books by type of bird hunting, waterbirds, shorebirds, seabirds
and including an A-Z listing of each type of bird, along with color photos and plenty of facts.
Each holds about 130 pages of detail, including sidebars of information, an index, a glossary and
more. If it's only one comprehensive set of books needed for the library on birds, make it this
one.
The Environmental Studies Shelf
The Temperate Forest
Philip Johansson
Enslow Publishers
PO Box 398, Berkeley Heights, NJ 07922
076602198X $18.95 www.enslow.com
With Philip Johansson's The Temperate Forest, kids in grades 3-4 receive almost 50 pages of info
which includes a handy index, bibliography, and plenty of charts and eye-catching color
illustrations and photos. How temperate rainforests work and the life cycles of their inhabitants
makes for an involving and appealing coverage which can appeal to both leisure readers and
young naturalists.
The Library Video/DVD Shelf
New Friends For Thomas & Other Adventures
Anchor Bay Entertainment
Andrea Blain (publicity)
1699 Stutz Drive, Troy, MI 48084
www.anchorbayentertainment.com
DV12592 $19.98 1-816-0909
New Friends For Thomas & Other Adventures is the latest in the Thomas and Friends children's
series on DVD, and features the interactions and character-building lessons of a friendly and
familiar cast of animated locomotives. The six stories in this 35 minute, full color DVD include
"Gorden And Spencer"; Emily's New Coaches"; "The Spotless Record"; "Peace And Quiet";
"Jack Jumps In"; and "A Friend In Need". They are accompanied by bonus features which include
3 DVD games, a sing-along song, and a 12-page commemorative booklet, and a collectible
postcard. New Friends For Thomas & Other Adventures is a genuinely "kid friendly" treat.
Dropping In On Mattise
Crystal Productions
PO Box 2159, Glenview, IL 60025
CP-6181-1 VHS $29.95 1-800-255-8629
Dropping In On Matisse is a 24 minute animated, full-color video which explores the life and
artwork of the French impressionist painter Henri Matisse. Puffer interviews Matisse who explains
how his work evolved from colorfully patterned paintings to unique paper cutouts. Matisse
describes some of his work while actual examples are shown. This outstanding instructional art
history video is accompanied by a classroom teacher's guide and would make an excellent addition
to any grade school or junior high curriculum supplement.
The World History Shelf
I Came As A Stranger
Bryan Prince
Tundra Books
PO Box 1030, Plattsburgh, NY 12901
0887766676 $15.95 tundrabooks.com
Highly recommended, Bryan Prince's I Came As A Stranger: The Underground Railroad is a
fascinating history and site guide to the American Underground Railroad, a pre-Civil War secret
organization of conspirators who risked life and freedom to help fugitive slaves make the perilous
journey to the freedom in Canada. Black-and-white illustrations, and compelling testimony make I
Came As A Stranger an educational and uplifting read for young readers of all ages.
Illustrated Encyclopedia Of Ancient Rome
Mike Corbishley
Getty Publications
Oxford University Press, dist.
1200 Getty Center Drive, Suite 500, Los Angeles, CA 90049-1682
0892367059 $19.95 1-800-451-7556
Specifically and beautifully designed for young readers ages 9 and older, this Getty Publications
edition of the Illustrated Encyclopedia Of Ancient Rome by archaeologist Mike Corbishley
provides an informed and informative descriptive survey of ancient Romans and the antiquarian
era of the Roman Empire. Featuring more than 200 informative entries showcasing everyday life
in roman cities and countrysides (as well as specific subjects ranging from farming, trade, leisure,
and religion, to language, technology, and war, the Illustrated Encyclopedia Of Ancient Rome is
wonderfully illustrated throughout with 250 color and 50 b/w illustrations, and four maps. This
superbly presented antiquarian history is a wonderful addition to any family, school, or community
library collection.
The Sports Shelf
Summer Olympics
Clive Gifford
Kingfisher
c/o Houghton Mifflin
215 Park Avenue South, NY, NY 10003
www.houghtonmifflinbooks.com
0753456931 $12.95 www.amazon.com
Superbly enhanced on every page with outstanding digital illustrations and visually impressive full
color action photography, Clive Gifford's Summer Olympics: The Definitive Guide To The
World's Greatest Sports Celebration is a complete survey and introduction to every Summer
Olympics event. Also included is a great deal of background information on the training routines
of top athletes of today and great athletic competitive rivalries of the past. Summer Olympics is
the ideal companion for young readers with its showcasing of the world pinnacle for international
sporting events and competitions.
The Judaic/Christian Shelf
The Mystery Of The Dead Sea Scrolls
Hagit Allon & Lena Zehavi
Jewish Publication Society
2100 Arch Street, 2nd floor, Philadelphia PA 19103-1399
0827608004 $12.95 1-800-234-3151
When eleven-year-old Daniel (who really wants to become a detective but has had much luck so
far) is assigned to write a report on the Dead Sea Scrolls, he discovers a very big mystery indeed!
Daniel's investigation take shim to Shrine Of The Book at the Israel Museum in Jerusalem where
he gets some pointers from archaeological experts, then proceeds on to Qumran, the site of an
ancient religious community in the Judean Desert -- the place where the scrolls were found.
Drawing upon their training as archaeologists and senior educators at the Israel Museum's Ruth
Youth Wing, co-authors Hait Allon and Lena Zehavi have presented a wonderfully accessible way
to engage young readers into the unique and fascinating story of the Dead Sea Scrolls. Yossi
Abolafia's lively illustrations are a perfect enhancement to The Mystery Of The Dead Sea Scrolls,
an entertaining, informative, and enthusiastically recommended picture book story.
Clare And Francis
Guido Visconti & Bimba Landmann
Eerdmans Books for Young Reader
Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Company
255 Jefferson Avenue, S.E., Grand Rapids, MI 49503
www.eerdmans.com/youngreaders
0802852696 $20.00 1-800-253-7521
Clare And Francis by Guido Visconti is an incredible, beautifully illustrated picture book about the
lives of both Francis and Clare, two people who were born in Assisi, Italy around the year 1200.
Although both Francis and Clare were born into wealthy families, both of them deliberately chose
to live lives of dedicated poverty. Francis preached to people throughout towns and villages,
while Clare cared for the sick in the convent of San Damiano. Both Francis and Clare
wholeheartedly embraced spirituality and Christian faith, and their lives set an example in the
Middle Ages that is remembered down to this very day. Stunning, colorful illustrations by Bimba
Landmann in an offshoot of medieval painting style help make Clare And Francis an unforgettable
biographical portrait, one which is meant to be treasured and shared between readers of all ages
and generations.
The Biography Shelf
Boy On Fairfield Street
Kathleen Krull
Random House
1745 Broadway, New York NY 10019
www.randomhouse.com/kids
0375822984 $16.95 www.amazon.com
It's hard to know where to place this biography of Ted Geisel: Boy On Fairfield Street reads with
the action and drama of fiction, yet is a bona-fide account of how Geisel grew up to become Dr.
Seuss. Paintings by Steve Johnson and Lou Fancher accompany a lively discussion of how Geisel
got his ideas. Good reading skills or parental assistance required for this in-depth biographical
survey.
Man Who Walked Between The Towers
Mordicai Gerstein
Roaring Brook Press/Millbrook Press
Two Old New Milford Rd., Brookfield, CT 06804
0761317910 $17.95 millbrookpress.com
In 1974 as the World Trade Center was being built, young French aerialist Philippe Petit spent
almost an hour on a tightrope walking, dancing and doing tricks between the two towers. Man
Who Walked Between The Towers tells his story using lyrical words and ink/oil paintings which
are endearing and revealing.
Books in Series
Milly Molly Books
c/o Paula Shuster Media
5737 Kanan Rd, Agoura Hills, CA 91301
NBN dist. 1-800-462-6420 nbnbooks.com
The six volume "Milly Molly" picturebook series by Gill Pittar (and illustrated by Cris Morrell) is
especially appropriate for children ages 4 to 8 and ideal for parents reading to their children as
well as children learning to read on their own. The newest additions to this outstanding series
include Miss, Molly And The Sunhat (1869720-164, $9.95); Milly, Molly And Aunt Maude
(1869720148, $9.95); Milly, Molly And Sock Heaven (1869720156, $9.95); Milly, Molly And
Different Dads (186-9720199, $9.95); Milly, Molly And Alf (1869720180, $9.95); Milly, Molly
And Special Friends (1869720172) Enthusiastically recommended for both gradeschool and
community library collections, each original, highly entertaining, and thoroughly "kid friendly"
story has an underlying life lesson.
Smart Apple Media/Creative Company
123 S. Broad St., Mankato, MN 56001
1-507-388-6273 www.amazon.com
Smart Apple Media's series imprints are eye-catching visuals for grades 4-6: each offers around 32
pages of facts and provides coverage of both basic facts and controversial issues. The 'In the
News' series enjoys the addition of Food Safety And Farming (1583403949) and Terrorism
(1583403957, $16.95 Each): debate is encouraged by pro/con overviews of controversial facts
and 'what do you think?' sidebars of discussion questions. The Bible And Christianity
(1583402438, $24.95) adds to the 'Sacred Texts' series and focuses on both New and Old
Testament ideas. Two new 'Hot Science' titles ($28.50 each) explore the cutting-edge discoveries
of space with Peter Jedicke's Cosmology and Sandy Fritz's Robotics And Artificial Intelligence
(1583403647): each offer a little under 50 pages of basic facts and will appeal to grades 5-6. Two
new adds by Trudy Bell to the 'New Solar System' series ($28.50 each) include Inner Planets
(1583402888) and The Sun: Our Nearest Star (1583402861): expect eye-catching color photos, a
glossary, index, and plenty of facts suitable for reports.
Gareth Stevens
330 W. Olive #100, Milwaukee, WI 53212
$14.95 Each www.garethstevens.com
Kids in grades 1 and up will find Elaine Pascoe's 'How and Why' titles to be eye-catching and easy
readers which offer fine introductions to nature topics. Each book offers 24 pages which includes
an index, glossary, bibliography and web sites, question and answer quiz, activities and of course
plenty of facts and color photos. New to the series: Seeds Travel (0836830121), Spiders Spin Silk
(083683-013X), Animals Hatch From Eggs (0836-830040), Animals Are Poisonous
(08368-30024), Animals Grow New Parts (0836-830032), Animals Hide (0836830059), Animals
Prepare For Winter (0836830-067), Birds Build Nests (0836830075), Birds Use Their Beaks
(0836830083), Insects Grow And Change (0836830091), Insects Visit Flowers (0836830105),
and Plants Eat Insects (0836830113). All provide eye-catching visual covers to entice the very
young beginner to enjoy. The 'Drawing is Easy' series ($21.95 each) also reaches a young
audience of grades Pk-up, with Godeleine DeRosamel using a 4-step approach to teach the basics.
Drawing With Your Hands (0836836294), Fingerprints (0836836286), Objects (083683-6278),
Nature (083683626X) and Circles (0836836251) provide 25 pages each of large step-by-step
examples.
Chrysalis Education
1980 Lookout Drive, North Makato MN 56003
This publisher's eye-catching titles promise lasting interest to elementary-level school collections.
Take Sally Hewitt's 'Smart Science' titles ($24.25 each): her Plants (1093233304) and Minibeasts
(10932333290) each blend cartoon-like drawings with facts, picture searches and plenty of games
and activities. John Woodward's OCEANS (1093231253) and Tony Allan's Rainforests
(10932331245, $28.50 each) present a little over fifty pages each covering the latest facts and
blending these and colorful photos with personal stories and key debates surrounding related
ecology issues. Material Matters by Terry Jennings ($24.25 each) includes Glass (1093233045)
and Clay (1093233-029), with a little over thirty pages each introducing kids to the uses and
science of each material. Nicola Edwards' 'Talking About' series ($24.25) addresses common
issues of social concerns: Bullying (109323307X) and Divorce (1093233053) each provide
examinations of the issues and how they affect people. The Mega Book Of Trucks (1093233509)
and Mega Book Of Combat Aircraft (1093233541) will reach many young fans of picturebook
transportation. Kids who enjoy dinosaurs will enjoy the internet-linked books by Michael Benton
Discovering Dinosaurs Flying Monsters (1093233614) or Mighty Giants (1093233584). The
latest facts based on fossils result in bright re-creations and drawings. Anna Levene's My Friend Is
Deaf (1093233274) and MY Friend Has Asthma (1093233258) each present issues surrounding
the conditions.
Lerner Publications
241 First Ave. North, Minneapolis, MN 55401-1036
www.lernerbooks.com
Grades 6-12 will find these 112-page biographies perfect introductions to individual Presidents.
Each blends color with black and white photos, timelines of achievement, web sites, an index, and
bibliography, and each adapts a presentation style with all the drama of fiction, yet the facts of
nonfiction. New to the set: Ulysses S. Grant (0822508144), James Madison (0822508230),
Dwight Eisenhower (082-2508133), Thomas Jefferson (0822508-222), John F. Kennedy
(0822508125) and Herbert Hoover (0822508214). The topics will never cease to be relevant
reading.Samuel Katz's 'Terrorist Dossiers' ($26.60 each) are also likely to remain relevant for
decades to come. Their narrow focuses will allow kids in grades 5-7 to hone in on basic issues. At
Any Cost (0822509490) surveys motives and key elements of terrorist dedicated to liberating a
homeland through violence; Jerusalem Or Death (0822540339) surveys Palestinian terrorism;
Raging Within (0822-540320) considers the foundations of prominent ideologically motivated
terrorist movements of the last fifty years; and Jihad (0822540312) surveys fundamentalist Islam
and the West. Each offers 70 pages of facts, photos and insights. All are highly recommended
picks.
Weigl Publishers
350 - 5th Avenue, #3304, NY, NY 10118
$86.00 set www.weigl.com
The new five volume "Prehistoric Library" set from Weigl Publishers is simply outstanding, both
in terms of an informative "kid friendly" text by Christa Bedry, as well as illustrative artwork and
photography. The five titles comprising this enthusiastically recommended series include
Prehistoric Life: Dinosaurs (1590361-105); Prehistoric Life: Birds (1590361-113); Prehistoric
Life: Fish (1590361-121); Prehistoric Life: Insects (1590361-13X); and Prehistoric Life: Plants
(1590-361148). Endorsed by the Royal Tyrrell Museum of Paleontology young readers will be
informed and entertained as they learn about plants and animals that existed more than 500 million
years ago. They will also learn how fossils help scientists to understand prehistoric climates and
ecological environments, how plants and animals adapted and evolved; and their life cycles and
feeding habits. Each volume is enhanced with a listing of websites and books for further study; an
"Ancient Activity" page; a Quiz to confirm comprehension of the material covered, a Glossary,
and an Index. Weigl Publishing's "Prehistoric Library" series will prove a welcome and immensely
popular addition to any school or community library -- and is ideal for homeschooling curriculum
supplementation.
Benchmark/Marshall Cavendish
99 White Plains Rd, Tarrytown NY 10591
www.marshallcavendish.com
The gorgeous series of Benchmark titles published by Marshall Cavendish should become library
standards in most cases, packing in bright covers, plenty of facts, and details to reach grades 5 and
up. Take the Encyclopedia Of The Aquatic World (0761471488, $459.96): this 11-volume set
blends outstanding color photos of starfish, fish, and plenty more with a handy A-Z reference
format inviting both leisure browsing and quick reference. Side bars of information, life cycle
discussions, habitat threats, ecology: it's all here, and 'aquatic world' extends to aquatic birds and
habitat descriptions from sea to wetland, making this a far more comprehensive set than most
coverages of sea life. The lovely Benchmark imprint covers subjects for slightly lower grade levels
from grades 3-6. Raymond Bial's 'Lifeways' series ($23.95 each) expands with the additions of
new Native American Tribes: Arapaho (0761416846), Wampanoag (0761416-838), Shawnee
(076141682X) and Chumash (0761416811). Each holds about 125 pages of facts ranging from
history and culture to beliefs and new ways. Timelines, a bibliography and glossary invite kids to
explore further. The 'Animalways' series ($21.95 each) include new books on Cats (0761415777),
Dolphins (0761415769), Eagles (0761415785), Lizards (0761415807) and Chimpanzees
(07-61415793): while these may be purchased separately and will enhance any collection, each
112-page title includes fine color photos, illustrations, and details suitable for reports and lasting
reference, making the entire series highly recommended. New to 'It's My State!' ($18.95 each) is
Minnesota (0761415343), North Carolina (0761415335), Colorado (0761415327), South Dakota
(0761415319), Utah (076-1415300) and New Jersey (0761415297). Each holds 80 pages of
state-specific details, from history and symbols to branches of government, jobs and economics,
and famous people. Each cover profiles a child to attract further attention. The 'Discovering
Cultures' set ($17.95 each) presents bright-colored covers to spark interest New additions: Israel
(0761417-206), South Africa (0761417192), Greece (0761417184), Great Britain
(0761417-176), Russia (0761417168) and Columbia (076141715X). Almost fifty pages of
introductory facts make this set a fine reference for the younger crowd. Benchmark has two series
sets which may not fit as neatly into the curriculum as the titles above, but which are still
recommended acquisitions. The 'In My Own Words' set ($18.95 each) edits pioneer diaries to
provide source materials on the pioneer experience. Letters Of Elinore Pruitt Stewart
(0761416455) covers the life of an early homesteader, Diary Of Susie King Taylor (076141648X)
reveals her Civil War nursing experiences, Diary Of Sam Watkins (0761416463) considers a
Confederate soldier's experiences during the war, and Diary Of Elizabeth Bacon Custer
(0761416471) recreates the Custer times. Each holds a little under a hundred pages of detail in
the first-person, with plenty of historical background bringing the times to life. New to the 'Great
Inventions' series ($25.95 each) are Printing Press (076141536X), Cotton Gin (0761415378),
Clocks (0761415386), Vaccines (07614-15394), and Gunpower And Weaponry (0761415408).
Each coverage of about 125 pages will reach grades 4-7 with plenty of background history and
focus on how the invention took place and changed the world. Fine references, all.
Thomson/Gale Group
27500 Drake Rd., Farmington Hills, MI 48331-3535
www.gale.com
This publisher's excellent titles are highly recommended picks for grades 3-5: each promises
lasting interest and use. New to the 'Giants of Science' series is Eli Whitney (156711461X,
$24.95) and Jonas Salk (156711475X, $24.95): each holding 64 pages of detail and facts about
the scientist's life and achievements. From life post-invention to other early achievements, these
biographies provide a solid dose of science. New to the 'Parasites' set is Kris Hirschmann's Lice
(1567111784X, $22.45): here 32 pages discuss infestations and life cycles. The 'Jeff Corwin
Experience' for kids ($23.70 each) is linked to TV's 'Animal Planet' series and provides three
close-up looks at animals in different areas ala the adventure spirit of Jeff: Into Wild Borneo
(1567118593), Into Wild India (1567118542) and Into Wild California (1567118585). Each holds
almost fifty easy pages blending science facts, first-person observations, and call-outs attached to
animals to create funny insights blending humor and real observation. New to the 'Nature's
Predators' titles: Rachel Lynette's Piranha (15671118889) and Rattlesnakes (15671118897,
$23.70). Each title packs in 40 pages of lively color photos and discussions which focus on the
predator's relationship with other animals. All are spirited winners.
World Almanac Library
300 West Olive, Milwaukee, WI 53212
www.worldalmanaclibrary.com
Two excellent series additions are highly recommended picks for grades 5 and older, providing
topics perfect for reports and including maps, web site, indexes and glossaries. Adds to the
'Native Tribes of North America' series ($31.93 each) include Plains And Prairie (0836856139),
Great Basin And Plateau (0836856104), Southeast (0836856147), California And Southwest
(0836856090), North And Northwest Coast (0836856112) and Northeast (0836856120). Each
holds 64 pages of attractions including color sidebars of information, photos and drawings, and
plenty of historical and cultural facts. The contrasts between tribes of each region is also
intriguing. The 8-book set 'Nations of the World' ($29.26 each) reaches the same age group, with
each title including fact boxes, political maps, national flags, and more. Volumes are grouped
alphabetically by country, so interested libraries will want to treat this as an encyclopedia and
purchase the entire reference book which is comprised of Afghanistan-Botswana (0836854-853),
Brazil-East Timor (0836854861), Ecuador-Hondouras (083685487X), Hungary-Kiribati
(0836854888), North Korea-nicaragua (0836854896), Niger Seychelles (083685490X), Sierra
Leone-united Arab Emirates (0836854918) and United Kingdom-Zimbabwe (0836854-926) each
are edited by Samuel Brimson and 2-20 pages of facts about each country depending on its size.
Perfect for reports.
Crabtree Publishing
350 5th Ave. #3308, NY, NY 10118
www.crabtreebooks.com
Crabtree's outstanding series titles for grades 2-3 provides plenty of facts enriched with lively
illustrations and geared for lasting relevance to course curriculums and library lending. Bobbie
Kalman's 'Endangered' seroes ($16.95 each) includes Monk Seals (0778718514), Rhinoceros
(0778718522), Tigers (0778718506) and Sea Turtles (0778718530): each holds a little over thirty
pages of information and includes a glossary, index, and plenty of colorful illustrations. The 'Life
Cycle' series by Kalman ($16.95 each) includes Sea Horse (077870663X), Honeybee
(077870-6648), Flower (0778706672) and Earthworm (0778706664), reviewing species and
habitats. New to the 'Pet Care' books for the same grade level ($16.95 each) are Gerbils
(0778717526), Kittens (0778717-50X), Guinea Pigs (0778717550), Mice (0778717542), Puppies
(0778717518) and Hamsters (0778717534). Each provides an animal overview, considers their
maintenance and care needs, and offers advice on how to tell if the animal is a good pick.
Kalman's 'Native Nations of North America' series expands with her Nations Of The Northwest
Coast (0778703789), Life Of The Navajo (0778703762), Famous Native North Americans
(0778703797) and Life In The Far North (0778703770): each considers Native culture and
children, roles and duties, the arts and lifestyles. The Medieval society focuses are welcome picks
for schools seeking more detail than the usual overview title can provide: obtain such detail in the
narrower focuses of Medieval Society (0778713-458), Life Of A Knight (0778713423), Women
And Girls In The Middle Ages (0778713466), Medieval Warfare (07787-1344X), Life In A
Castle (0778713431) and Places Of Worship In The Middle Ages (0778713474). All are excellent
coverages: highly recommended as lasting library choices.
The Easy Readers Shelf
The SOS Files
Betsy Byars, et.al.
Henry Holt
115 W. 18th Street, New York NY 10011
0805068880 $15.95 www.henryholt.com
In The SOS Files, Arthur Howard provides the zany cartoonish illustrations to this set of twelve
short illustrated stories about students' 'biggest emergencies'. From a Pink Panther adventure to an
encounter with the neighbor Mrs. Meany, The SOS Files provides some fun situations and
entertaining tales for beginninger readers.
A library card is free and one of the most valuable possessions any child can have.
James A. Cox, Editor-in-Chief
Diane C. Donovan, Editor
Midwest Book Review
278 Orchard Drive
Oregon, WI 53575-1129
phone: 1-608-835-7937
e-mail: mbr@execpc.com
e-mail: mwbookrevw@aol.com
http://www.midwestbookreview.com
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